bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Walls and white elephants: Oil extraction, responsibility, and infrastructural violence in Equatorial Guinea
Authors: Appel Hannah C
Published: April 2012

Starting from the juxtaposition of Equatorial Guinea’s luxurious private oil compounds with the sporadic and uneven public infrastructure outside their walls, this article explores how infrastructure becomes a key site through which oil and gas companies and Equatoguinean actors negotiate entanglement and disentanglement, responsibility and its abdication. If basic forms of infrastructural violence include exclusion and disconnection, that violence is redoubled by the work of disentanglement–the work to abdicate responsibility for those forms of violence. Drawing on 14 months of fieldwork in Equatorial Guinea, as well as on the work of Michel Callon and Koray Çaliskan, this article describes how the work-intensive disentanglement evidenced in the enclaves operates on behalf of the marketization of oil and gas. Marketization is made possible through work to deny the web of sociopolitical relations required for hydrocarbon extraction and production, thus allowing the commodity (and the companies producing it) to appear as if separate from the broader social context within which they operate. At the same time, however, this work to deny certain social relations inevitably requires the production and internalization of others, often materialized through the production and manipulation of infrastructure.
Municipal disconnect: On abject water and its urban infrastructures
Authors: Anand Nikhil
Published: April 2012

Infrastructural practices, made by the manipulations of pumps, pipes and hydraulic expertise, play a critical role in managing urban populations. Drawing on two years of ethnographic research in Mumbai, in this article I show how Muslim settlers in a northern suburb, are being rendered abject residents of the city. Abjection isn’t not a lack of social and political entitlements, but a denial of them. As Muslim settlers are being pushed down to claim less desirable water through the deliberate inaction of city engineers and technocrats, this article shows the iterative process through which abjection is made through tenuous and contentious infrastructural connections between the government and the governed.
Street social capital in the liquid city
Authors: Ilan Jonathan
Published: April 2012

This article reflects on the lives of a group of young men on Ireland’s socio-economic periphery, focusing on how exclusion shapes their cultural orientation and orders their spatial practices. Whilst populist imaginaries and certain academic understandings of young, disadvantaged, urban males tend to cast them in the role of claiming and violently defending territories, their relationships to space may be considerably more transient and fluid. Within the late-modern ‘liquid city’ exclusion has cast the young men researched here into migratory practices, where they must negotiate relationships with potentially hostile peers in various parts of the urban environment. Adopting street cultural norms of rugged masculinity, crimino-entrepreneurialism and the recourse to violence can result in the accumulation of ‘street social capital’. This can allow disadvantaged young people to secure a sense of existential security, pleasurable experiences, disposable income and a culturally mediated notion of dignity, despite their spatial and socio-economic exclusion.
Youth Justice Reform: Redressing Age Discrimination against Children?
Authors: Flacks Simon
Published: April 2012

This article considers whether the system of reprimands and final warnings in the youth justice system in England and Wales constitutes age discrimination for the purposes of human rights law. Whilst much youth justice discourse has addressed the use of diversionary measures that steer children away from formal justice processes, little attention has been paid to measures which negatively discriminate against children, in comparison to adults, without reasonable justification. The discussion contextualizes the issue within discourses on the sociology of childhood and youth justice, and considers why there is a general reluctance to recognize children as ‘victims’ of age discrimination.
Properties of normalized radial visualizations
Authors: Daniels Karen , Grinstein Georges , Russell Adam , Glidden Mason
Published: April 2012

This paper defines a class of normalized radial visualizations (NRVs) that includes the RadViz mapping onto the two-dimensional unit disk. An NRV maps high-dimensional records into lower dimensional space, where records’ images are convex combinations of the dimensions (called dimensional anchors) laid out in two dimensions as labels on a circle and in higher dimensions on the surface of a hypersphere. As radial visualizations have evolved, conjectures have been proposed for invariants, such as lines mapping to lines, and convex sets to convex sets. Some have been informally proven for RadViz. We formally establish these properties for all NRVs and illustrate them using RadViz. An extensive theory of Parallel Coordinates has been developed elsewhere with great benefit to the visualization community. Our theory should provide similar benefits for radial visualization users.

We show that an NRV is the composition of a perspective and an affine transformation. This projective transformation characterization leads to a number of properties including line, point ordering and convexity invariance. Knowledge of these properties suggests that the visual existence of structure in the data can guide a visualization researcher in further productive exploration of the data. We show the established properties hold regardless of whether or not the dimensional anchors lie on the circle or the hypersphere. These insights also suggest directions for future NRV work, such as rotational preprocessing to separate data in RadViz and NRVs for better cluster visualization.
Writing purposefully in art and design
Authors: Melles Gavin , Lockheart Julia
Published: April 2012

In disciplines with long histories in higher education, academic literacies, including writing practices, are less contested than in newer academic fields such as art and design. The relatively recent incorporation of such fields and schools into the university sector has required these fields to create academic writing practices consistent with existing academic models or to justify their distinctive disciplinary practices. Recently, for example, much has been written about the distinctiveness of practice-based, reflective and creative written genres, such as the exegesis and the studio or practice based thesis, as the distinctive voice of art and design. However, such models have yet to gain broad acceptance in the higher education sector, where scientific (e.g. empirical research report) and humanities (e.g. essayist tradition) practices are far more familiar and of overarching significance. Similarly to the sciences and humanities, the field of art and design in fact names a broad grouping of communities of practice, e.g. graphic design, fine arts, fashion design, with a range of expectations regarding practice and writing. Whatever disciplinary consensus is reached regarding legitimate writing practices in art and design, it is important not to obscure these differences and make the same mistake that has hampered clarity in writing instruction for mainstream academic fields, a problem that is at the core of the academic literacies program for change and enlightenment. The Writing Purposefully in Art and Design Network (Writing-PAD) aims to support and disseminate the range of genres associated with writing in art and design. In the second part of this article, an account of the purposes, practices and scope of the Writing-PAD network demonstrates the characteristics of and consensus on forms of academic writing in art and design. Together with our introductory review we hope to promote discussion about the necessary balance of consensus and dissensus that art and design fields require to remain vibrant.
Efficacy and ocular safety of bright light therapy lamps
Authors: Baczynska K , Price LLA
Published: April 2012

The optical radiation safety of various seasonal affective disorder (SAD) treatment lamps, sunrise simulators and daylight bulbs available on the UK market have been assessed using recognised guidelines. An analysis is included of the photometry of circadian entrainment by bright light therapy, with a justification for a melanopsin-based action spectrum for treatment efficacy. Parameters relating to both efficacy and phototoxicity risk, which are potentially relevant to bright light therapy treatment regimes, are considered. Unpredictable variations are highlighted which lead to the conclusion that several relevant photometric variables of treatment lamps need to be characterised to predict efficacy and potential hazards.
The Impact of Visiting Team Travel on Game Outcome and Biases in NFL Betting Markets
Authors: Nichols Mark W.
Published: April 2012

Using data on regular season National Football League games from 1981-2004, this study examines the impact that travel has on game outcome and whether betting markets fully incorporate this information. A visiting team travelling west to east and crossing at least one time zone is shown to significantly increase the probability of the home team winning. This impact increases with distance, but at a decreasing rate. Evidence on whether betting markets fully account for this travel effect is mixed. While there is evidence that markets do not fully account for the impact of travel and that bettors underestimate the home team’s score whenever the visitor crosses a time zone, the model does not provide a profitable betting strategy out of sample. Thus, any bias is likely too small to profitably exploit.
Perceptions of Teacher Transformation on Issues of Racial and Cultural Bias
Authors: Shockley Kmt G. , Banks Joy
Published: April 2012

This article discusses the perceptions of in-service teachers on racial and cultural bias. Teachers were enrolled in a master’s degree program centering on social justice, critical reflection, and the creation of democratic classrooms. The program incorporates arts integration, reflective practice, and work is done on deconstructing White privilege. There is evidence of transformation over the 2-year period—teachers enter the program denying connection to bias, a year later they are willing to consider that they are biased. By the time the program is over, they believe that they have surpassed society and wish to work toward deconstructing privilege.
Exploring recent developments in restorative policing in England and Wales
Authors: Paterson Craig , Clamp Kerry
Published: April 2012

The evolution of the policing role over the last decade has led to 33 police forces in England and Wales integrating restorative justice practices, in one form or another, into their responses to minor crime committed for the first time by both youths and adults. Most recently, this reform dynamic has been used in response to more serious offences committed by persistent offenders and expanded to include all stages of the criminal justice process. Despite the significant positive rhetoric that surrounds the adoption and use of restorative justice, there are a number of procedural and cultural challenges that pose a threat to the extent to which restorative justice may become embedded within the policing response. This article explores these developments and highlights where potential problems for implementation may arise as well as some strategies to overcome them.
Public health action and mass chemoprophylaxis in response to a small meningococcal infection outbreak at a nursery in the West Midlands, England
Authors: Stewart Antony , Coetzee Nic , Knapper Elizabeth , Rajanaidu Subhadra , Iqbal Zafar , Duggal Harsh
Published: April 2012

Background:

Meningococcal infection is fatal in 10% of cases, and age-specific attack rates are highest in infancy. A nursery outbreak was declared just before a bank holiday weekend in August 2010, when two children attending the same nursery were confirmed to have meningococcal infection. Although such outbreaks are rare, they generate considerable public alarm and are challenging to manage and control. This report describes the investigation and public health response to the outbreak.

Results:

Both cases had relatively mild disease and were confirmed as having serogroup B infection. Chemoprophylaxis and advice were given to most of the 146 children and 30 staff at the nursery. Within 28 hours of declaring the outbreak, over 95% of parents received information, advice and prescriptions for their children. GPs were also given information and the after-hours service provided continuity over the weekend. No further cases were identified and the outbreak was closed four weeks after being declared.

Conclusions:

Considerable logistical challenges were involved in providing timely advice and chemoprophylaxis to the entire nursery and staff one day before a bank holiday weekend. The speed of the public health response and implementation of preventive measures was crucial in providing assurance to parents and staff, and reducing their anxiety. The decision to provide on-site prescribing at the nursery (coupled with information sessions and individual counselling) proved to be a key implementation-success factor. Effective coordination and management by the outbreak control team was able to rapidly provide leadership, delegate tasks, identify gaps, allocate resources and ensure a proactive media response. A number of useful lessons were learnt and recommendations were made for future local practice.
Fontan Procedure at 2,240 m Above Sea Level
Authors: Ramirez-Marroquin Samuel , Calderón-Colmenero Juan , Curi-Curi Pedro , García-Montes José A. , Patiño-Bahena Emilia , Buendía Alfonso , Sandoval Juan Pablo , Cervantes-Salazar Jorge
Published: April 2012

The modified Fontan procedure represents the final stage of reconstructive surgery for most patients with functionally univentricular hearts. Although outcomes following Fontan procedures performed at sea level are widely reported, less has been documented and reported concerning outcomes in regions at high altitude. To clarify the main features involved, we present our institutional experience with Fontan operations performed in Mexico city (2,240 m above the sea level), with an emphasis on historical evolution of treatment. A retrospective and observational study was undertaken, which included 98 patients over a period of 18 years, and clinical outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality were analyzed. A change in operative technique from intra-cardiac nonfenestrated Fontan procedure to extra-cardiac fenestrated technique occurred in 2001. Early mortality rates before and after this change in surgical approach were 26% and 4.7%, respectively. The most common morbidity was the occurrence of pleural effusions (98% of patients), which also appears to be a risk factor for operative mortality. Much remains unknown about the pathophysiology of the Fontan circulation at high altitude, and we need to develop morphological study protocols that include pulmonary biopsy to increase our knowledge and inform our therapeutic actions.
The Third Aldo Castañeda Lecture: The Neglect of Neonatal/Infant Cardiac Disease in Africa—Continental Genocide?
Authors: Kinsley Robin H.
Published: April 2012

The advances made in pediatric cardiology and cardiac surgery now make it possible for survival into adulthood of the majority of children born with congenitally malformed hearts. On the African continent, unfortunately, this is only a dream as roughly 280,000 neonates born every year on the continent are left untreated, demonstrating the natural history of the congenitally malformed heart by default. Pediatric cardiac surgery is available in very few countries on this continent. This article takes a look at the problem of neonates and infants born with cardiac defects on the continent and attempts an extrapolation of the magnitude of the problem. Using the experience gained at the Walter Sisulu Pediatric Cardiac Center since its inception in 2003, issues of financing indigent patients, training local personnel, and building capacity through infrastructure development and regional cooperation are discussed. The success of the Walter Sisulu model demonstrates the benefits of treatment for the neonates and infants with congenitally malformed heart, on the continent. It is emphasized that African governments and all stakeholders must participate to ensure a good outcome for the African child with congenital cardiac defect.
Repair of Anomalous Left Coronary Artery From Pulmonary Artery in an Infant With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis
Authors: Kirsch Roxanne E. , DiMaria Michael , Quartermain Michael D. , Meaney Peter A. , Fuller Stephanie
Published: April 2012

In anomalous left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA), infants 6 to 12 weeks will often present with symptoms consistent with reflux or bronchiolitis. In those infants diagnosed with both ALCAPA and concomitant active respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis, others have reported delaying revascularization therapy until resolution of the RSV bronchiolitis. Here, we report the case of a three-month-old infant, diagnosed with ALCAPA and active RSV bronchiolitis, who underwent successful myocardial revascularization within 24 hours of presentation and diagnosis.
Air Transported Pediatric Rescue Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Single Institutional Review
Authors: Horne David , Lee John J. , Maas Mike , Divekar Abhay , Kesselman Murray , Drews Tanya , Veroukis Stasa , Hancock Betty J. , Hiebert Brett , Cronin Gerarda , Soni Reeni
Published: April 2012

Background: Pediatric extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) programs are sophisticated endeavors usually found only in high-volume cardiac surgical programs. Worldwide, many cardiology programs do not have on-site pediatric cardiac surgery expertise. Our single-center experience shows that an organized multidisciplinary rescue-ECMO program, in collaboration with an accepting facility, can achieve survival rates comparable to modern era on-site ECMO. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of all patients initiated on rescue-ECMO from 2004 to 2009 in a single academic pediatric hospital without a pediatric cardiac surgery program. All aspects of ECMO were formalized using Failure Mode Effects Analysis. Results: Eight patients were initially cannulated for ECMO at our institution. Six were subsequently transported by air to the receiving facility 1,305 km away. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was initiated in 0.2% of our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit admissions and in 0.52% of all our pediatric cardiac patients. Mean age was 4.0 years (7 weeks to 15 years). Indications for ECMO initiations were cardiogenic shock (n = 5) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (n = 3). Six had veno-arterial- and two had veno-veno ECMO. Two patients were not transported (one death and one weaned locally). Six patients were successfully transported within 2 to 24 hours, with a survival to hospital discharge rate of 67% (four of six). Median total time on ECMO was 5.5 days. Complication rate was 50% (4/8). Conclusions: Our rescue-ECMO survival results were comparable to that of current published results from established pediatric ECMO programs. Air transport of ECMO patients can be performed safely using an organized multidisciplinary team approach.
Postoperative Serum Cortisol Concentration and Adrenal Insufficiency in Neonates Undergoing Open-Heart Surgery
Authors: Sasser William C. , Robert Stephen M. , Carlo Waldemar F. , Borasino Santiago , Dabal Robert J. , Kirklin James K. , Alten Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2012

Background: We sought to determine whether immediate postoperative serum cortisol concentration predicts adrenal insufficiency in neonates after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. We hypothesized that cortisol <10 µg/dL would be associated with increased catecholamine requirements and fluid resuscitation and would predict hemodynamic responsiveness to exogenous steroids. Methods: Retrospective study of 41 neonates was carried out for the levels of cortisol in the immediate postoperative period; of whom, 15 received steroids due to high levels of inotropic support. Laboratory and clinical outcomes were collected. Results: Median cortisol was 12 µg/dL (interquartile range: 5.2-27.4). Levels of cortisol <10 µg/dL was not associated with any clinical variable indicative of increased illness severity. Peak lactate (9.1 vs 11.8 mmol/L, P = .04) and maximum arteriovenous saturation difference ([Sao2 − Svo2] 28% vs 32%, P = .05) were both lower among patients with levels of cortisol <10 µg/dL. Six (40%) patients had a significant hemodynamic improvement within 24 hours after receiving steroids (responders), although there was no statistical difference between levels of cortisol in responders versus nonresponders. Level of cortisol was positively correlated with maximum lactate ( P < .001), maximum Sao2 − Svo2 ( P < .001), maximum inotrope score ( P = .014), initial 24-hour fluid intake ( P = .012), and time to negative fluid balance ( P = .008) and was negatively correlated with initial 24-hour urine output ( P < .001). Conclusions: Low cortisol obtained in the immediate postoperative period is not associated with worse postoperative outcomes or predictive of steroid responsiveness. In contrast, elevated levels of cortisol are positively correlated with severity of illness. The use of an absolute cortisol threshold to identify adrenal insufficiency and/or guide steroid therapy in neonates after cardiac surgery is unjustified.
Indications and Risks of Delayed Sternal Closure After Open Heart Surgery in Neonates and Early Infants
Authors: Erek Ersin , Yalcinbas Yusuf Kenan , Turkekul Yasemin , Saygili Arda , Ulukol Ayse , Sarioglu Ayse , Sarioglu Cafer Tayyar
Published: April 2012

Background: Delayed sternal closure (DSC) has been an essential part of neonatal and infant heart surgery. Here, we report our single institution experience of DSC for eight years. Methods: The successive 188 patients were analyzed retrospectively. Sternum was closed at the end of the operation in 97 (51.6%) patients (primary sternal closure [PSC] group). Sternum was left open in 91 (48.4%) patients. Among them, 45 (23.9%) had only skin closure (DSCs group) and 46 (24.4%) had membrane patch closure (DSC membrane [DSCm] group). Median age was higher in PSC group (90 days) than DSCs (11 days) and DSCm groups (9.5 days). Results: Mortality was 1%, 11.1%, and 28.2% in PSC, DSCs, and DSCm groups, respectively ( P < .05). Univariate analysis recognized the neonatal age (odds ratio [OR] = 4.2), preoperative critical condition (OR = 5.3), cardiopulmonary bypass time >180 minutes (OR = 4), and cross clamp time >99 minutes (OR = 3.9) as risk factors for mortality. Total morbidity rate was higher in DSCm group (73.9%) than DSCs group (51.1%) and PSC group (23.7%; P < .001). Mechanical ventilation time, intensive care unit stay, and hospital stay were longer in DSCs and DSCm groups than PSC group ( P < .001). The incidence of hospital infection was also higher in DSCs (43.5%) and DSCm (33.3%) groups than PSC group (20.6%; P < .05). But there was no difference in the incidence of sternal wound complications, including both deep and superficial (4.1%, 8.8%, and 4.4%, respectively). Conclusion: Although the risk of sternal wound complications is not different, patients who necessitate DSC (using both skin and membrane closure techniques) have more complicated postoperative course than patients with PSC.
A Tribute to Francis Fontan, MD, and Guillermo Kreutzer, MD
Authors: Mavroudis Constantine
Published: April 2012

At the Third Scientific Meeting of the World Society for Pediatric and Congenital Heart Surgery in June 2011 in Istanbul, Turkey, Professor Francis Fontan and Dr Guillermo Kreutzer were honored for their contributions to the world of pediatric and congenital heart surgery. The presentation included a video of each physician being interviewed about their clinical and historical experiences. The presentation and videos are summarized herein.
Optimal Initial Palliation for Patients With Functionally Univentricular Hearts
Authors: Backer Carl Lewis , Russell Hyde M. , Deal Barbara J.
Published: April 2012

This review will outline the optimal, initial palliation for children who are born with a functionally univentricular heart. Optimizing the initial palliation is of critical importance in this patient population to prevent potential problems such as systemic outflow and pulmonary vein obstruction that may complicate further surgical intervention. The palliative techniques that are discussed include pulmonary artery banding, modified Blalock-Taussig shunt, Damus-Kaye-Stansel procedure, modified Norwood, hybrid, and early bidirectional Glenn. Our recommendations for optimal palliation for children with a univentricular heart are based on our experience with nearly 200 patients who had either a lateral tunnel or extracardiac Fontan procedure and 130 patients who had Fontan conversion with arrhythmia surgery.
Cardiac Transplantation and Mechanical Support for Functional Single Ventricle
Authors: Kirklin James K. , Pearce F. Bennett , Dabal Robert J. , Carlo Wally , McGiffin David C.
Published: April 2012

Cardiac transplantation has played a pivotal role in the therapeutic algorithm for anatomically uncorrectable congenital heart disease, particularly the failing single ventricle. The historical evolution from Kantrowitz to Bailey and beyond challenges the application of this scarce resource to complex cardiac malformations in the presence of physiologic and circulatory failure. While selection of cardiac transplantation as primary therapy for hypoplastic-left heart syndrome is currently rare, the failing single ventricle in various stages of the Fontan pathway is increasingly considered for this therapy. The results of transplantation in this complex situation have progressively improved and now approached the late outcomes for other conditions. Mechanical circulatory support for the failing single ventricle has recently carried infants and children to successful transplant. The development of miniaturized continuous flow pumps offers the hope of major new avenues of successful circulatory support for single ventricle patients.
Late Arrhythmias Following Fontan Surgery
Authors: Deal Barbara J.
Published: April 2012

The incidence of atrial arrhythmias following Fontan repairs varies by the type of surgery and duration of follow-up. The incidence of late atrial tachycardia has been reduced from 60% to less than 20% by surgical modifications. Late ventricular tachycardia is reported in 3% to 12% of patients. Aggressive efforts to eliminate tachycardia and improve hemodynamics may improve clinical status.
Modification of an exposed loop in the C1 domain reduces immune responses to factor VIII in hemophilia A mice
Authors: Wroblewska Aleksandra , van Haren Simon D. , Herczenik Eszter , Kaijen Paul , Ruminska Aleksandra , Jin Sheng-Yu , Zheng X. Long , van den Biggelaar Maartje , ten Brinke Anja , Meijer Alexander B. , Voorberg Jan
Published: April 2012

Development of neutralizing Abs to blood coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) provides a major complication in hemophilia care. In this study we explored whether modulation of the uptake of FVIII by APCs can reduce its intrinsic immunogenicity. Endocytosis of FVIII by professional APCs is significantly blocked by mAb KM33, directed toward the C1 domain of FVIII. We created a C1 domain variant (FVIII-R2090A/K2092A/F2093A), which showed only minimal binding to KM33 and retained its activity as measured by chromogenic assay. FVIII-R2090A/K2092A/F2093A displayed a strongly reduced internalization by human monocyte-derived dendritic cells and macrophages, as well as murine BM-derived dendritic cells. We subsequently investigated the ability of this variant to induce an immune response in FVIII-deficient mice. We show that mice treated with FVIII-R2090A/K2092A/F2093A have significantly lower anti-FVIII Ab titers and FVIII-specific CD4+ T-cell responses compared with mice treated with wild-type FVIII. These data show that alanine substitutions at positions 2090, 2092, and 2093 reduce the immunogenicity of FVIII. According to our findings we hypothesize that FVIII variants displaying a reduced uptake by APCs provide a novel therapeutic approach to reduce inhibitor development in hemophilia A.
What have we learned from brucellosis in the mouse model?
Authors: Grilló María-Jesús , Blasco José María , Gorvel Jean Pierre , Moriyón Ignacio , Moreno Edgardo
Published: April 2012

Brucellosis is a zoonosis caused by Brucella species. Brucellosis research in natural hosts is often precluded by practical, economical and ethical reasons and mice are widely used. However, mice are not natural Brucella hosts and the course of murine brucellosis depends on bacterial strain virulence, dose and inoculation route as well as breed, genetic background, age, sex and physiological statu of mice. Therefore, meaningful experiments require a definition of these variables. Brucella spleen replication profiles are highly reproducible and course in four phases: i), onset or spleen colonization (first 48 h); ii), acute phase, from the third day to the time when bacteria reach maximal numbers; iii), chronic steady phase, where bacterial numbers plateaus; and iv), chronic declining phase, during which brucellae are eliminated. This pattern displays clear physiopathological signs and is sensitive to small virulence variations, making possible to assess attenuation when fully virulent bacteria are used as controls. Similarly, immunity studies using mice with known defects are possible. Mutations affecting INF-γ, TLR9, Myd88, Tγδ and TNF-β favor Brucella replication; whereas IL-1β, IL-18, TLR4, TLR5, TLR2, NOD1, NOD2, GM-CSF, IL/17r, Rip2, TRIF, NK or Nramp1 deficiencies have no noticeable effects. Splenomegaly development is also useful: it correlates with IFN-γ and IL-12 levels and with Brucella strain virulence. The genetic background is also important: Brucella-resistant mice (C57BL) yield lower splenic bacterial replication and less splenomegaly than susceptible breeds. When inoculum is increased, a saturating dose above which bacterial numbers per organ do not augment, is reached. Unlike many gram-negative bacteria, lethal doses are large (≥ 108bacteria/mouse) and normally higher than the saturating dose. Persistence is a useful virulence/attenuation index and is used in vaccine (Residual Virulence) quality control. Vaccine candidates are also often tested in mice by determining splenic Brucella numbers after challenging with appropriate virulent brucellae doses at precise post-vaccination times. Since most live or killed Brucella vaccines provide some protection in mice, controls immunized with reference vaccines (S19 or Rev1) are critical. Finally, mice have been successfully used to evaluate brucellosis therapies. It is concluded that, when used properly, the mouse is a valuable brucellosis model.
A Gaijin-like miniature inverted repeat transposable element is mobilized in rice during cell differentiation
Authors: Dong Hai-Tao , Zhang Lu , Zheng Kang-Le , Yao Hai-Gen , Chen Jack , Yu Feng-Chi , Yu Xiao-Xing , Mao Bi-Zeng , Zhao Dong , Yao Jian , Li De-Bao
Published: April 2012

Background

Miniature inverted repeat transposable element (MITE) is one type of transposable element (TE), which is largely found in eukaryotic genomes and involved in a wide variety of biological events. However, only few MITEs were proved to be currently active and their physiological function remains largely unknown.

Results

We found that the amplicon discrepancy of a gene locus LOC_Os01g0420 in different rice cultivar genomes was resulted from the existence of a member ofGaijin-like MITEs (mGing). This result indicated thatmGingtransposition was occurred at this gene locus. By using a modified transposon display (TD) analysis, the active transpositions ofmGingwere detected in rice Jiahua No. 1 genome under three conditions: in seedlings germinated from the seeds received a high dose γ-ray irradiation, in plantlets regenerated from anther-derived calli and from scutellum-derived calli, and were confirmed by PCR validation and sequencing. Sequence analysis revealed that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or short additional DNA sequences at transposition sites postmGingtransposition. It suggested that sequence modification was possibly taken place duringmGingtransposition. Furthermore, cell re-differentiation experiment showed that active transpositions of bothmGingandmPing(another well studied MITE) were identified only in regenerated plantlets.

Conclusions

It is for the first time thatmGingactive transposition was demonstrated under γ-ray irradiation or in cell re-differentiation process in rice. This newly identified active MITE will provide a foundation for further analysis of the roles of MITEs in biological process.
Effects of acid on the microstructures and properties of three-dimensional TiO2 hierarchical structures by solvothermal method
Authors: Zhou Jing , Song Bin , Zhao Gaoling , Han Gaorong
Published: April 2012

Three-dimensional (3D) TiO2 hierarchical structures with various microstructures have been successfully synthesized via a surfactant-free and single-step solvothermal route, in which hydrochloric acid (HCl), nitric acid (HNO3), and acetic acid (HAc) are employed as the acid medium, respectively. The effects of acid medium on the microstructures and properties of 3D TiO2 hierarchical structure have been studied. The results indicate that 3D dandelion-like microspheres assembled of radial rutile nanorods are obtained in the sample prepared with HCl. Both the fraction of rutile and the diameter of nanorod enhance with the increasing HCl concentration. For the products derived from either HNO3 or HAc, 3D spheres composed of anatase nanoparticles are present. The 3D dandelion-like TiO2 hierarchical structures show low reflectance and efficient light harvesting since this ordered rod geometry offers a light-transfer path for incident light as well as multiple reflective and scattering effects. Moreover, 3D TiO2 with this unique topology shows superior photocatalytic activity despite low surface area, which can be ascribed to the enhanced light harvesting, fast electron transport, and low electron/hole recombination loss.
Convergence of algorithms for fixed points of generalized asymptotically quasi-ϕ-nonexpansive mappings with applications
Authors: Qin Xiaolong , Agarwal Ravi P , Cho Sun Young , Kang Shin Min
Published: April 2012

In this article, strong convergence of Krasnoselski-Mann iterative sequences and Halpern iterative sequences are investigated based on hybrid projection methods. Strong convergence theorems for common fixed points of a family of generalized asymptotically quasi-ϕ-nonexpansive mappings are established in the framework of Banach spaces.

Mathematics Subject Classification 2000: 47H09; 47J05; 47J25
Selective cerebral perfusion with 4-branch graft total aortic arch replacement: Outcomes in 12 patients
Authors: Lai Wei-Liang , Hsu Chiao-Po , Shih Chung-Che , Li Ming-Li , Li Ping-chun
Published: April 2012

Background

Aortic arch reconstruction is associated with high neurological morbidity. Our purpose is to describe our experience using a 4-branched graft and selective antegrade brain perfusion (SABP) for total aortic arch replacement (TAR).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 12 patients who received TAR, with or without ascending aorta replacement, with a 4-branched graft for Stanford type A dissection (n = 9) or aortic arch aneurysm (n = 3). In all patients surgery was performed with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) with or without retrograde brain perfusion, and selective antegrade brain perfusion (SABP) via the subclavian artery or axillary artery.

Results

There were 8 males and 4 females with an average age of 63.14 years. Emergent operations were performed in 9 patients with acute type A aortic dissections. Of all 12 patients, 2 deaths occurred and 1 patient experienced lower extremity paraplegia resulting in an in-hospital mortality rate of 16.6% and a permanent neurological deficit rate of 8.3%.

Conclusions

The use of a 4-branched graft, hypothermic circulatory arrest, and SABP is a useful operative method for aortic arch replacement with acceptable morbidity and mortality.
Field appraisal and accurate resource estimation from 3D quantitative interpretation of seismic and CSEM data
Authors: Morten Jan Petter , Roth Friedrich , Karlsen Stig Arne , Timko David , Pacurar Constantin , Olsen Per Atle , Nguyen Anh Kiet , Gjengedal Jakob
Published: April 2012

The key questions in field appraisal are: What is the hydrocarbon volume, and how are the hydrocarbons distributed in the field? The ability to answer these questions accurately is critical for deciding whether to produce a field and for developing a production plan. Wells drilled during the appraisal phase provide well and flow-test data, which are combined with structural knowledge from seismic surveys to map the extent of the field and generate a reservoir model. The cost for appraising an offshore field can exceed US $100 million, and it is desirable to obtain the information required with fewer wells if possible. Quantitative interpretation of surface geophysical data provides reservoir properties between well locations and can, therefore, significantly reduce appraisal costs. A quantitative analysis of seismic data using well-log information will typically determine reservoir rock porosity. Other important parameters are hydrocarbon saturation, permeability, and net-to-gross ratio. Quantitative interpretation of several reservoir properties using only the seismic data is associated with significant ambiguity. To determine several of these parameters accurately, complementary geophysical data sets with different sensitivity characteristics are needed. Controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) data are sensitive to the fluid type and can provide additional information to determine the hydrocarbon saturation more accurately. We have developed a new quantitative interpretation workflow integrating seismic and marine 3D CSEM data for estimating the hydrocarbon volume and obtaining 3D distributions of the hydrocarbon pore volume. A performance test of the workflow has been carried out on the Troll West Oil Province (TWOP) in the Norwegian North Sea (Figures 1 and 2). This article describes our methodology and presents encouraging results.
Improvedex vivomethod for microbiocidal activity across vertebrate species
Authors: French Susannah S. , Neuman-Lee Lorin A.
Published: April 2012

The field of ecoimmunology is currently undergoing rapid expansion, whereby biologists from a wide range of ecological disciplines are increasingly interested in assessing immunocompetence in their study organisms. One of the key challenges to researchers is determining what eco-immune measures to use in a given experiment. Moreover, there are limitations depending on study species, requirements for specific antibodies, and relevance of the methodology to the study organism. Here we introduce an improved ex vivo method for microbiocidal activity across vertebrate species. The utility of this assay is that it determines the ability of an organism to remove a pathogen that could be encountered in the wild, lending ecological relevancy to the technique. The applications of this microbiocidal assay are broad, as it is readily adaptable to different types of microbes as well as a wide variety of study species. We describe a method of microbiocidal analysis that will enable researchers across disciplines to effectively employ this method to accurately quantify microbial killing ability, using readily available microplate absorbance readers.
Competition, collaboration and coordination – determining how cells bypass DNA damage
Authors: Sale Julian E.
Published: April 2012

Cells must overcome replication blocks that might otherwise lead to genomic instability or cell death. Classical genetic experiments have identified a series of mechanisms that cells use to replicate damaged DNA: translesion synthesis, template switching and homologous recombination. In translesion synthesis, DNA lesions are replicated directly by specialised DNA polymerases, a potentially error-prone approach. Template switching and homologous recombination use an alternative undamaged template to allow the replicative polymerases to bypass DNA lesions and, hence, are generally error free. Classically, these pathways have been viewed as alternatives, competing to ensure replication of damaged DNA templates is completed. However, this view of a series of static pathways has been blurred by recent work using a combination of genetic approaches and methodology for examining the physical intermediates of bypass reactions. These studies have revealed a much more dynamic interaction between the pathways than was initially appreciated. In this Commentary, I argue that it might be more helpful to start thinking of lesion-bypass mechanisms in terms of a series of dynamically assembled ‘modules’, often comprising factors from different classical pathways, whose deployment is crucially dependent on the context in which the bypass event takes place.
The potential of telehealth for ‘business as usual’ in outpatient clinics
Authors: Day Karen , Kerr Patricia
Published: April 2012

A six-month pilot study was conducted to ascertain the value of using high-definition videoconferencing equipment in an outpatients' setting. The videoconferencing equipment, which included digital biometric equipment, was installed in the outpatient clinics of a remote health service in New Zealand. Use of the equipment was evaluated using action research techniques. Clinicians were interviewed about their assessment of the equipment's usefulness. Patients and their carers completed questionnaires about their clinic experience. During the pilot trial, 109 patients were seen in 25 clinics of six different specialities. Questionnaire results showed that patients and their companions had a good user experience, similar to a face-to-face appointment. Clinicians found that the large screen, sense of proximity, video clarity and definition, and lack of sound/picture lag worked well for certain types of outpatients' clinics, e.g. methadone maintenance clinics. The need for process changes made it difficult to turn telehealth into business as usual in an environment built for face-to-face appointments. We conclude that videoconference equipment has potential to become integral to outpatients' clinics.
An electronic medication reminder, supported by a monitoring service, to improve medication compliance for elderly people living independently
Authors: Parker Roger , Frampton Christopher , Blackwood Angela , Shannon Ady , Moore Graeme
Published: April 2012

We conducted a pilot study of a personal medication reminder unit, supported by a monitoring service. A total of 31 elderly residents were offered the reminder service for a period of eight weeks (1736 person-days of service). A telephone call from the monitoring service was made after four weeks to check that each participant was happy with the service and keen to continue. No one opted out and users of the service found it easy to manage, helpful and acceptable. There was a significant improvement ( P = 0.012) in the rate of self-assessed medication compliance, from pre (52%) to post (81%) service introduction. There was a significant improvement in people's perceived ability to look after themselves at home (self-care ability) ( P = 0.001). The percentage of participants rating their ability to look after themselves at home as excellent increased from 42% to 68%. Health-related quality of life measures, such as physical and mental health, showed positive improvement, but the changes were not significant. The service has the potential to improve health and well-being outcomes for people on multiple medications living independently in the community.
A pilot health information management system for public health midwives serving in a remote area of Sri Lanka
Authors: Rodrigo E Shan S , Wimalaratne Samantha R U , Marasinghe Rohana B , Edirippulige Sisira
Published: April 2012

We developed an electronic Health Information Management System (HIMS) for Public Health Midwives (PHMs) in Sri Lanka. We conducted a needs analysis amongst 16 PHMs, which found that they spent most of their time managing health records. The HIMS was designed so that it could accept data from the PHMs, and generate reports which could be used by the PHMs themselves as well as by their supervisors. The HIMS was trialled by a group of 16 PHMs in a remote area of the Ratnapura district of Sri Lanka. Mini-laptops with the software were distributed to the PHMs and they were given the necessary training. They started entering historical data from the registers into the system by themselves. Nearly 10,000 public health records were generated in the first three months. In a subsequent survey, the PHMs all gave positive answers indicating that they were happy with the pilot system, they would like to continue using it to enhance their service and they wanted to see it expanded across the whole of Ratnapura district. The system seems to be a practical solution for the field activities of PHMs in Sri Lanka.
The Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) as a reliable screening tool for dementia when administered via videoconferencing in elderly post-acute hospital patients
Authors: Wong Lillian , Martin-Khan Melinda , Rowland Jeff , Varghese Paul , Gray Leonard C
Published: April 2012

The Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) is a six-domain screening tool for dementia. We measured the practicality and reliability of administering the RUDAS in a telemedicine setting. Inpatients were recruited from a Geriatric and Rehabilitation Unit. Each patient was administered the RUDAS both face-to-face (FTF) and via videoconferencing (VC). The assessment format (FTF or VC) and the allocation of doctor (Doctor 1 or Doctor 2) to format were randomized. Scores from each assessment format were compared. The outcome of no difference was decided based on a difference in mean of no more than ± one point. Percentage agreement (agreement being ±2 points) was calculated on individual test scores. Forty-two patients (average age 75 years) completed the two assessments. Their mean Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score was 24.7 (range 10–30). The mean RUDAS score for both FTF and VC assessment was 24.9 (difference between the means 0.04), i.e. there was no significant difference. The results suggest that the RUDAS can be reliably administered via VC in post acute patients as an alternative to FTF administration.