bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic relationship of the melon fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae) inferred from mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Wu Yi , McPheron Bruce A. , Wu Jia‐Jiao , Li Zhi‐Hong
Published: October 2011

Abstract  The melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) (Diptera: Tephritidae), has been the subject of worldwide quarantine and management efforts due to its widespread agricultural impact and potential for rapid range expansion. From its presumed native distribution in India, this species has spread throughout the hot‐humid regions of the world. We provide information that reveals population structure, invasion history and population connectivity from 23 locations covering nine countries based on DNA sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene. Forty‐two polymorphic sites were described among 38 haplotypes. The most common haplotype, H1, was observed in 73% of the samples distributed among all populations. Highest genetic diversity was seen within populations, and no isolation‐by‐distance was detected. The western regions (Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Burma and China‐west) showed higher haplotype diversity than eastern regions (China‐east). China‐Yunnan showed highest levels of genetic diversity in China. Haplotype diversity decreased with longitude from west to east. Together, these analyses suggest that B. cucurbitae has expanded from west to east within a limited geographic scale and recently invaded China through Yunnan Province.
Insecticidal activities of garlic substances against adults of grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Yang Feng‐Lian , Zhu Fen , Lei Chao‐Liang
Published: October 2011

Abstract  The angoumois grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier), is one of the most serious stored grain pests around the world. In attempts to reduce the losses caused by the moth and to suppress its populations, the fumigant activities, behavioral influence and ovipositional inhibition of garlic (Allium sativum) essential oil and its two major components, diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, were investigated against the adult grain moth. Their effects on reduction in survival of first instar larvae to adult emergence were also evaluated. Results showed that these three materials (garlic essential oil, diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide) had significant fumigant activity with 50% lethal concentration values at 1.33, 0.99, and 1.02 μL/L air space, respectively; meanwhile, the three materials possessed high behavioral deterrent activities against adults in the Y‐tube olfactometer. When applied to rice grains, these materials reduced adult longevity and inhibited oviposition, with ovipositional inhibition above 70% at a concentration of 1.5 μL/25 g in either no‐choice or two‐choice tests. In short, the study showed that both diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, like garlic essential oil, acted as fumigants, produced behavioral deterrence and inhibited oviposition against angoumois grain moth. Our work here indicates that diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide may serve as potential alternatives for grain protectants since both of them can be prepared easily from readily available chemicals.
Genetic distinctness of parthenogenetic forms of European Polydrusus weevils of the subgenus Scythodrusus
Authors: Kajtoch Łukasz , Korotyaev Boris , Lachowska‐Cierlik Dorota
Published: October 2011

Abstract  Among eight species of Polydrusus weevils which belong to subgenus Scythodrusus, at least two possess parthenogenetic forms: P. (S.) inustus and P. (S.) pilifer. Both of these species consist of dioecious populations in the Caspian area and of parthenogenetic populations in Eastern Europe (P. (S.) inustus), the Caucasus region (both species) and Middle Asia (P. (S.) pilifer). The origin of parthenogenesis in this subgenus is unresolved; however some data suggest that the parthenogenetic forms are of hybrid ancestry. The genetic distinctness of parthenogenetic Scythodrusus was assessed on the basis of COII, ITS2, EF1‐α and Wolbachiawsp, 16S ribosomal DNA, ftsZ and hcpA sequence comparisons. Both taxa turned out to be monophyletic for all markers, which is an evidence against hybridization of their dioecious ancestors. On the other hand, a high frequency of heterozygous P. (S.) inustus females suggests an origin resulting from hybridization between genetically distinct dioecious representatives of this species. Very similar strains of Wolbachia supergroup A were found in both species, indicating that they have been either inherited from a common ancestor or were transmitted between parthenogenetic Scythodrusus weevils and probably spread randomly across their ranges.
DOMESTIC SUPPLIER INTEGRATION IN THE CHINESE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: THE BUYER'S PERSPECTIVE
Authors: LOCKSTROM MARTIN , SCHADEL JOACHIM , MOSER ROGER , HARRISON NORMA
Published: October 2011

This paper presents the results of an empirical analysis of the current practices of, and key challenges to, domestic supplier integration in the Chinese automotive industry from the buyer's perspective. The results are based on case interviews with thirty automotive firms from various countries of origin with manufacturing operations in China. The research findings indicate that domestic supplier integration in terms of joint product development and advanced production planning activities between buyers and suppliers currently takes place to a relatively low extent. The study results also reveal that a lack of critical supplier capabilities as well as buyer‐side constraints act as inhibiting factors.
Electioneering, the Third Reform Act, and Political Change in the 1880s*
Authors: BLAXILL LUKE
Published: October 2011

This article investigates the impact of the 1883–5 electoral reforms on the political culture of elections and electioneering in the constituencies, using the borough of Ipswich as its focus. It argues that historians have underestimated the extent to which the Franchise and Redistribution Acts of 1884–5 transformed political cultures outside the countryside and large cities, and that the Corrupt Practices Act of 1883 had a major impact on the modernisation of party organisation. Principally, however, it challenges the prevailing historical consensus that the basis of post‐reform constituency politics remained, to a large extent, local in nature, by suggesting that electioneering cultures were placed under considerable ‘nationalising’ influences from the early 1880s on. Rather than resisting these influences, the established Ipswich parties largely embraced them. Moreover, a general decline in corruption, and a general increase in the number of speeches reported in local newspapers from ‘carpetbagger’ candidates and national leaders, created a climate in which it was now more difficult for any constituency, however idiosyncratic, to insulate itself from ‘national’ politics.
Consumer Preferences and Willingness to Pay for Value‐Added Chicken Product Attributes
Authors: Martínez Michel Lorelei , Anders Sven , Wismer Wendy V.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  A growing demand for convenient and ready‐to‐eat products has increased poultry processors’ interest in developing consumer‐oriented value‐added chicken products. In this study, a conjoint analysis survey of 276 chicken consumers in Edmonton was conducted during the summer of 2009 to assess the importance of the chicken part, production method, processing method, storage method, the presence of added flavor, and cooking method on consumer preferences for different value‐added chicken product attributes. Estimates of consumer willingness to pay (WTP) premium prices for different combinations of value‐added chicken attributes were also determined. Participants’“ideal” chicken product was a refrigerated product made with free‐range chicken breast, produced with no additives or preservatives and no added flavor, which could be oven heated or pan heated. Half of all participants on average were willing to pay 30% more for a value‐added chicken product over the price of a conventional product. Overall, young consumers, individuals who shop at Farmers’ Markets and those who prefer free‐range or organic products were more likely to pay a premium for value‐added chicken products. As expected, consumers’ WTP was affected negatively by product price. Combined knowledge of consumer product attribute preferences and consumer WTP for value‐added chicken products can help the poultry industry design innovative value‐added chicken products.

Practical Application:  An optimum combination of product attributes desired by consumers for the development of a new value‐added chicken product, as well as the WTP for this product, have been identified in this study. This information is relevant to the poultry industry to enhance consumer satisfaction of future value‐added chicken products and provide the tools for future profit growth.
Underestimation of Pyruvic Acid Concentrations by Fructose and Cysteine in 2,4‐Dinitrophenylhydrazine‐Mediated Onion Pungency Test
Authors: Yoo Kil Sun , Lee Eun Jin , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Onion pungency has been routinely measured by determining pyruvic acid concentration in onion juice by reacting with 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) since 1961. However, the absorbency of the color adduct of the reaction rapidly decreased in onion samples as compared to that of the pyruvic acid standards, resulting in underestimations of the pyruvic acid concentrations. By measuring the absorbency at 1 min, we have demonstrated that accuracy could be substantially improved. As a continuation, the causes of degradation of the color adduct after the reaction and pyruvic acid itself before the reaction were examined in this study. Alliinase action in juice (fresh or cooked) and bulb colors did not influence the degradation. Some organic acids indigenously found in onion, such as ascorbic acid, proline, and glutamic acid, did not reduce the absorbency. However, fructose within the onion juice or supplemented caused the degradation of the color adduct, whereas sucrose and glucose had a lesser effect. Degradation rates increased proportionally as fructose concentrations increased up to 70 mg/mL. Cysteine was found to degrade the pyruvic acid itself before the pyruvic acid could react with DNPH. Approximately 90% of the pyruvic acid was degraded after 60 min in samples of 7 mM pyruvic acid supplemented with 10 mg/mL cysteine. Spectral comparisons of onion juice containing fructose naturally and pyruvic acid solution with supplemented fructose indicated identical patterns and confirmed that the color‐adduct degradation was caused by fructose. Our study elucidated that fructose, a major sugar in onion juice, caused the degradation of color adduct in the onion pungency test and resulted in underestimation of the pyruvic acid concentration.
Effects of Raspberry Phytochemical Extract on Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Serum Proteomics in a Rat Model
Authors: Chen Hong‐Sheng , Liu Ming , Shi Li‐Jun , Zhao Jin‐Lu , Zhang Chun‐Peng , Lin Luo‐Qiang , Liu Yan , Zhang Shu‐Jun , Jin Jun‐Chao , Wang Lei , Shen Bao‐Zhong , Liu Jia‐Ren
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  The red raspberry extract possesses potent antioxidant capacity and anticancerous activity in vitro and in vivo. The objective of this study was to determine whether red raspberry extract affected the cell cycle, angiogenesis, and apoptosis in hepatic lesion tissues from a rat model induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) as well as changes of serum proteomics. Rats were treated with red raspberry extract (0.75, 1.5, or 3.0 g/kg of body weight) by gavage starting 2 h after DEN administration and continued for 20 wk. Red raspberry extract inhibited cell proliferation, vascular endothelial growth factor VEGF expression, and induced apoptosis in the hepatic lesion tissues. In addition, 2 protein peaks (2597.93 and 4513.88 m/z) were identified to differentially express in the 3.0 g/kg body weight and positive control groups by serum proteomics. These results suggest that a dietary supplement with red raspberry effectively protects against chemically induced hepatic lesions in rats.
State of Dispersed Lipid Carrier and Interface Composition as Determinants of Beta‐Carotene Stability in Oil‐in‐Water Emulsions
Authors: Cornacchia Leonardo , Roos Yrjö H.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Liposoluble bioactive compounds are often included in foods in emulsified lipid carriers. In the present study, the impact of the physical state of the lipid carrier and the interfacial composition of oil‐in‐water emulsions on the stability of β‐carotene was studied. Emulsions with hydrogenated palm kernel oil (HPKO) concentration of 10% (w/w) dispersing 0.05% (w/w) β‐carotene, and a water phase at pH 7 containing 30% (w/w) sucrose, were stabilized by 1%, 1.5%, 2%, and 3% (w/w) whey protein isolate (WPI). Crystallization and melting behavior of emulsified and bulk HPKO were studied by differential scanning calorimetry. The hysteresis of emulsified HPKO crystallization (onset approximately 10 °C; endset approximately 6 °C) and melting (onset approximately 17 °C; endset approximately 45 °C) allowed us to operate at 15 °C on systems with identical compositions but different physical states of the same lipid phase. Surface protein coverage of emulsions was calculated and size of the dispersed particles was characterized by dynamic light scattering. β‐Carotene contents of the emulsions during storage at 15 °C was analyzed spectrophotometerically. Results highlighted an impact of the phase of the lipid carrier and of the concentration of WPI on β‐carotene degradation. β‐Carotene loss showed zero‐order kinetics. A liquid dispersed phase resulted in a low degradation rate but a high concentration of protein on a solid lipid carrier was likewise effective for β‐carotene protection.

Practical Application:  The inclusion of lipophilic bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids, is a current trend in the production of functional foods aiming to enhance health and well‐being. However, the use of functional ingredients in food products is complicated because of the sensitivity of the active molecules to physical and chemical factors to which they are exposed during processing, storage, and consumption. The present work gives indications of the influence of the lipid carrier physical state and surface structure on ß‐carotene stability in formulated oil‐in‐water liquid food models, suggesting possible strategies for an enhanced stabilization of lipophilic labile compounds.
The Promotion of Self‐Regulation as a Means of Enhancing School Readiness and Early Achievement in Children at Risk for School Failure
Authors: Ursache Alexandra , Blair Clancy , Raver C. Cybele
Published: October 2011

Abstract— This article reviews the literature on self‐regulation and the development of school readiness and academic competence in early childhood. It focuses on relations between the development of cognitive aspects of regulation—referred to as executive functions and defined as abilities used to regulate information and to organize thinking in goal‐directed activities—and the development of reactivity and regulation in stimulus‐driven emotion, attention, and physiological stress response systems. It examines a bidirectional model of cognition–emotion interaction in the development of self‐regulation in which top‐down executive control of thought and behavior develops in reciprocal and interactive relation to bottom‐up influences of emotion and stress reactivity. The bidirectional model is examined within the context of innovative preschool interventions designed to promote school readiness by promoting the development of self‐regulation.
Biomarker Changes During Acute Heart Failure Treatment
Authors: Boyer Brent , Hart Kimberly W. , Sperling Matthew I. , Lindsell Christopher J. , Collins Sean P.
Published: October 2011

Biomarker changes may provide physicians with objective evidence of treatment efficacy in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) and facilitate early hospital discharge. The authors hypothesize that mid‐regional‐pro‐adrenomedullin (MR‐proADM), C‐terminal‐pro‐endothelin‐1 (CT‐pro‐ET‐1), and mid‐regional‐pro‐atrial natriuretic peptide (MR‐proANP) change during the first 24 hours of ADHF therapy. Eligible patients had an emergency department diagnosis of ADHF and fulfilled modified Framingham criteria. Clinical data, serum, and plasma values were collected at enrollment, 2 to 4 hours, and 12 to 24 hours after treatment. Changes in biomarker concentrations from baseline to 2 to 4 hours, baseline to 12 to 24 hours, and 2 to 4 to 12 to 24 hours were calculated. Fisher exact and Kruskal–Wallis tests were used for comparisons. Forty‐eight patients were included. The median age was 62 years (range 40–88), 54% were men and 50% were white. More patients had changes in MR‐pro‐ANP levels in the first 2 to 4 hours after ADHF therapy compared with MR‐proADM or CT‐pro‐ET‐1 (36% vs 16% and 24%). However, 12 to 24 hours after therapy, similar proportions of patients had changes in MR‐proANP, MR‐proADM, and CT‐proET‐1 levels (47%, 41%, and 49%). In this preliminary study, patients with ADHF had measurable changes in MR‐proANP, MR‐proADM, and CT‐pro‐ET‐1 24 hours after initial therapy. A study of association with clinical course and outcomes to determine the role of these markers in risk‐stratification is warranted. ©2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A geography‐based critique of new US biofuels regulations
Authors: Fast Stewart , Brklacich Mike , Saner Marc
Published: October 2011

The new renewable fuels standard (RFS 2) aims to distinguish corn‐ethanol that achieves a 20% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared with gasoline. Field data from Kim et al. (2009) and from our own study suggest that geographic variability in the GHG emissions arising from corn production casts considerable doubt on the approach used in the RFS 2 to measure compliance with the 20% target. If regulators wish to require compliance of fuels with specific GHG emission reduction thresholds, then data from growing biomass should be disaggregated to a level that captures the level of variability in grain corn production and the application of life cycle assessment to biofuels should be modified to capture this variability.
New hope for dedicated genetically engineered bioenergy feedstocks?
Authors: Endres A. Bryan
Published: October 2011

The unique regulatory requirements and costs of genetic engineering (GE) are likely to inhibit commercialization of dedicated bioenergy crops due to the relatively small current market. Two recent regulatory approvals for GE plants, however, may signal a shift in policy and an opening of a door to a streamlined federal regulatory pathway for commercialization for non‐food plants. The change, however, may shift regulatory battles from the federal to the state and local level, as each state has independent authority to regulate plants under respective noxious weed/plant protection statutes. This previously dormant state regulatory power could result in even more complex barriers to commercialization of GE bioenergy crops‐‐replacing the regulatory delays embedded in the federal system with regulatory chaos at the state and local level.
Acoustic differences between humorous and sincere communicative intentions
Authors: Hoicka Elena , Gattis Merideth
Published: October 2011

Previous studies indicate that the acoustic features of speech discriminate between positive and negative communicative intentions, such as approval and prohibition. Two studies investigated whether acoustic features of speech can discriminate between two positive communicative intentions: humour and sweet‐sincerity, where sweet‐sincerity involved being sincere in a positive, warm‐hearted way. In Study 1, 22 mothers read a book containing humorous, sweet‐sincere, and neutral‐sincere images to their 19‐ to 24‐month‐olds. In Study 2, 41 mothers read a book containing humorous or sweet‐sincere sentences and images to their 18‐ to 24‐month‐olds. Mothers used a higher mean F0 to communicate visual humour as compared to visual sincerity. Mothers used greater F0 mean, range, and standard deviation; greater intensity mean, range, and standard deviation; and a slower speech rate to communicate verbal humour as compared to verbal sweet‐sincerity. Mothers used a rising linear contour to communicate verbal humour, but used no specific contour to express verbal sweet‐sincerity. We conclude that speakers provide acoustic cues enabling listeners to distinguish between positive communicative intentions.
Motion Analysis of Micropart in Dry Friction Environment Due to Surface Excitation Considering Microscale Forces
Authors: Rizwan M. , Shiakolas P. S.
Published: October 2011

This manuscript investigates the motion of a micropart on a dry nonlubricated controlled deformable surface considering the dynamically changing microforces while in contact with the surface. The motion analysis of a micropart on a flexible surface under controlled deformation is the first step to initiate feasibility of a micromanipulation device. At the micro/nanoscale, the surface force of attraction becomes more significant than the inertia force; thus motion analysis requires estimating and accommodating these forces in a dynamic model. The model considers microscale forces and surface roughness conditions (asperity deformation), while dynamically evaluating the friction coefficient and attraction force due to the dynamic asperity deformation as the micropart moves on a controlled deformation active surface. The parameters considered in the model include the micropart mass and size, the relative roughness between the micropart and surface, the surface and micropart material, and input actuator frequency, stroke, and deformation profile. The simulation results indicate that predictable micropart motion could be achieved but only within a certain range of input actuator frequencies. At lower frequencies no motion is possible while at higher frequencies the micropart detaches from the surface. The understanding of the effects of the microforces on the dynamic model and micropart motion would pave the way towards controlled micropart translocation and manipulation employing a flexible surface for microassembly or for processes requiring controlled micropart handling for heterogeneous microdevice mass production.
Recurrent Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report and Review Article
Authors: Kotla Suman krishna , Nathaniel Cyril
Published: October 2011

ABS is a unique acute cardiac syndrome and a recently recognized form of transient left ventricular dysfunction. It mimics ACS in clinical presentation (chest pain and dyspnea) and specific ECHO findings in the absence of significant coronary lesions. This rare entity accounts for 2.2% of ST segment elevation ACS. Pathophysiology mostly correlates to stress-induced catecholamine release. The syndrome is predominant in females, mostly in the postmenopausal age group. It should be initially managed according to the guidelines of ACS. The prognosis for apical ballooning syndrome is generally favorable with inpatient hospital mortality less than 2%. Reports of a single episode of ABS are common in recent medical literature; we report a rare case of recurrence that provides more insight into the nature of this unique syndrome.
The Effects of Temperament and Character on Symptoms of Depression in a Chinese Nonclinical Population
Authors: Chen Zi , Lu Xi , Kitamura Toshinori
Published: October 2011

Objective. To examine the relations between personality traits and syndromes of depression in a nonclinical Chinese population.Method. We recruited 469 nonclinical participants in China. They completed the Chinese version temperament and character inventory (TCI) and self-rating depression scale (SDS). A structural equation model was used to rate the relation between seven TCI scales and the three SDS subscale scores (based on Shafer's meta-analysis of the SDS items factor analyses). This was based on the assumption that the three depression subscales would be predicted by the temperament and character subscales, whereas the character subscales would be predicted by the temperament subscales.Results. The positive symptoms scores were predicted by low self-directedness (SD), cooperativeness (C), reward dependence (RD), and persistence (P) as well as older age. The negative symptoms scores were predicted only by an older age. The somatic symptoms scores were predicted by high SD.Conclusion. Syndromes of depression are differentially associated with temperament and character patterns. It was mainly the positive symptoms scores that were predicted by the TCI scores. The effects of harm avoidance (HA) on the positive symptoms scores could be mediated by low SD and C.
Achieving a Realistic Notion of Time in Discrete Event Simulation
Authors: Gaderer Georg , Nagy Anetta , Loschmidt Patrick , Sauter Thilo
Published: October 2011

Distributed sensor systems require clock synchronization between all sensor nodes to provide consistent view of the overall system. Owing the growing size of networks, the evaluation of the synchronization performance becomes difficult, if done by means of experiments. Simulation is another method to tackle this issue. Realistic simulation of synchronization schemes requires accurate modelling of oscillators which are the driving timers generating various events. One way to characterise oscillators is to utilize the Allan variance, which can be used to generate a phenomenological model based on power spectral density. Since discrete event simulation (DES) tools are widely used to model network protocols, models which combine accuracy and performance are needed. This paper presents a model that was optimised for use in DES. To verify that the simulation results sufficiently match measurements, an implementation in OMNeT++ was done. The results show that the behaviour of distributed sensor systems, resulting from imperfect timebases, can be accurately simulated.
Geophysical Indicators of Gas Hydrate in the Northern Continental Margin, South China Sea
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Wu Shiguo , Guo Yiqun , Yang Shengxiong , Gong Yuehua
Published: October 2011

Gas hydrate drilling results show that gas hydrate has a close relationship with strong bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs) identified from seismic data in the Baiyun sag, South China Sea. The BSRs observed on seismic profiles at the crests of submarine canyons indicate the likely existence of gas hydrate. We calculate the acoustic impedance using constrained sparse spike inversion (CSSI), the interval velocity, and the seismic reflection characteristics such as reflection strength, instantaneous frequency, blanking, and enhanced reflection to demonstrate the presence of gas hydrate. Higher acoustic impedance and P-wave velocity were identified above the BSR. A remarkable low impedance, low frequency, and acoustic blanking indicated the presence of gas below gas hydrate stability zone. The occurrence of gas hydrate at the crests of canyons suggests that the abundance of gas hydrate in Baiyun sag may be due to the migrating submarine canyons providing the structural reliefs and the topographic ridges.
The Effectiveness of a Nondiet Multidisciplinary Weight Reduction Program for Severe Overweight Patients with Psychological Comorbidities
Authors: Bannert Bettina , Schobersberger Wolfgang , Tran Ulrich , Remmel Andreas
Published: October 2011

Objective. For successful sustainable weight reduction, a multimodal program including behaviour therapy is needed. Lifestyle modification is mostly used for obesity BMI <40 kg/m2. The present study demonstrated the effect of an in-patient nondiet lifestyle program for patients with BMI >40 kg/m2with psychological comorbidity.Research Methods and Procedere. A retrospective data analysis of 99 participants who passed the program based on moderate activity, healthy and regular food intake over metabolic rate and behaviour therapy was conducted.Results. 64 had a BMI >40 kg/m2(mean value49.99±8.74). The relative weight reduction was −6.9 ± 3.9%; (Friedman testP<0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis forn=79revealed that the achievement of the weight reduction goal (0.5 kg per week; predictors: sex, incidence of MTS, duration of in-patient therapy, psychological symptoms, BMI and activity level at baseline) was associated with a shorter duration of in-patient therapy (P=0.007) and higher BMI at baseline (P=0.010).Conclusion. Participants with BMI >40 kg/m2may achieve significant changes of weight reduction and psychological symptoms. However, the primary outcome should not be weight reduction. It is necessary to identify the benefits of lifestyle modification on changing risk profiles and emotional regulation of food intake.
Symptomatic Therapy and Rehabilitation in Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Khan Fary , Amatya Bhasker , Turner-Stokes Lynne
Published: October 2011

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and a major cause of chronic neurological disability in young adults. Primary progressive MS (PPMS) constitutes about 10% of cases, and is characterized by a steady decline in function with no acute attacks. The rate of deterioration from disease onset is more rapid than relapsing remitting and secondary progressive MS types. Multiple system involvement at onset and rapid early progression have a worse prognosis. PPMS can cause significant disability and impact on quality of life. Recent studies are biased in favour of relapsing remitting patients as treatment is now available for them and they are more likely to be seen at MS clinics. Since prognosis for PPMS is worse than other types of MS, the focus of rehabilitation is on managing disability and enhancing participation, and application of a “neuropalliative” approach as the disease progresses. This chapter presents the symptomatic treatment and rehabilitation for persons with MS, including PPMS. A multidisciplinary approach optimizes the intermediate and long-term medical, psychological and social outcomes in this population. Restoration and maintenance of functional independence and societal reintegration, and issues relating to quality of life are addressed in rehabilitation processes.
Regulation of Epithelial Sodium Transport via Epithelial Na+ Channel
Authors: Marunaka Yoshinori , Niisato Naomi , Taruno Akiyuki , Ohta Mariko , Miyazaki Hiroaki , Hosogi Shigekuni , Nakajima Ken-ichi , Kusuzaki Katsuyuki , Ashihara Eishi , Nishio Kyosuke , Iwasaki Yoshinobu , Nakahari Takashi , Kubota Takahiro
Published: October 2011

Renal epithelial Na+ transport plays an important role in homeostasis of our body fluid content and blood pressure. Further, the Na+ transport in alveolar epithelial cells essentially controls the amount of alveolar fluid that should be kept at an appropriate level for normal gas exchange. The epithelial Na+ transport is generally mediated through two steps: (1) the entry step of Na+ via epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) at the apical membrane and (2) the extrusion step of Na+ via the Na+, K+‐ATPase at the basolateral membrane. In general, the Na+ entry via ENaC is the rate‐limiting step. Therefore, the regulation of ENaC plays an essential role in control of blood pressure and normal gas exchange. In this paper, we discuss two major factors in ENaC regulation: (1) activity of individual ENaC and (2) number of ENaC located at the apical membrane.
Comparative Analysis of Patients with Acute Coronary and Cerebrovascular Syndromes from the National French Hospitalization Health Care System Database
Authors: Béjot Yannick , Benzenine Eric , Lorgis Luc , Zeller Marianne , Aubé Hervé , Giroud Maurice , Cottin Yves , Quantin Catherine
Published: October 2011

Background: Nationwide evaluations of the epidemiology of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or cerebrovascular syndrome (CVS) are scarce. We aimed to analyze nationwide French data on patients referred to hospital for either ACS or CVS. Methods: Using the French national hospital discharge diagnosis records, all patients hospitalized between 2005 and 2008 with a diagnosis of ACS and CVS based on the ICD-10 were identified. We analyzed vascular risk factors and early outcomes in patients with a single hospitalization for ACS or CVS or for both ACV and CVS in a 2-month time window. Results: 1,187,643 patients were recorded. Among these, 638,061 (53.7%) had CVS alone, 525,419 (44.3%) had ACS alone, and 24,163 (2%) had both. Patients of the latter group were older, had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, and atrial fibrillation, a longer length of stay, were less likely to be discharged to home, and had a higher in-hospital risk of death after adjustment for age, sex, and vascular risk factors compared with patients with either CVS alone (OR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.66–1.77) or ACS alone (OR = 2.95, 95% CI: 2.85–3.05). Conclusion: Patients with both CVS and ACS have a high vascular risk profile and a marked excess risk of early death.
Detection of Intergenerational Genetic Effects with Application to HLA-B Matching as a Risk Factor for Schizophrenia
Authors: Childs Erica J. , Sobel Eric M. , Palmer Christina G.S. , Sinsheimer Janet S.
Published: October 2011

Background and Methods: Association studies using unrelated individuals cannot detect intergenerational genetic effects contributing to disease. To detect these effects, we improve the extended maternal-fetal genotype (EMFG) incompatibility test to estimate any combination of maternal effects, offspring effects, and their interactions at polymorphic loci or multiple SNPs, using any size pedigrees. We explore the advantages of using extended pedigrees rather than nuclear families. We apply our methods to schizophrenia pedigrees to investigate whether the previously associated mother-daughter HLA-B matching is a genuine risk or the result of bias. Results: Simulations demonstrate that using the EMFG test with extended pedigrees increases power and precision, while partitioning extended pedigrees into nuclear families can underestimate intergenerational effects. Application to actual data demonstrates that mother-daughter HLA-B matching remains a schizophrenia risk factor. Furthermore, ascertainment and mate selection biases cannot by themselves explain the observed HLA-B matching and schizophrenia association. Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the power of the EMFG test to examine intergenerational genetic effects, highlight the importance of pedigree rather than case/control or case-mother/control-mother designs, illustrate that pedigrees provide a means to examine alternative, non-causal mechanisms, and they strongly support the hypothesis that HLA-B matching is causally involved in the etiology of schizophrenia in females.
Circulation
Editors' Picks
Authors:   The Editors
Published: October 2011

The following articles are being highlighted as part of
Circulation's
Topic Review series. This series will summarize the most important manuscripts, as selected by the editors, published in
Circulation
and the
Circulation
subspecialty journals. The studies included in this article represent the most read manuscripts published on the topic of hypertension in 2009 and 2010.
Runtime Analysis of an Evolutionary Algorithm for Stochastic Multi-Objective Combinatorial Optimization
Authors: Gutjahr Walter J.
Published: October 2011

For stochastic multi-objective combinatorial optimization (SMOCO) problems, the adaptive Pareto sampling (APS) framework has been proposed, which is based on sampling and on the solution of deterministic multi-objective subproblems. We show that when plugging in the well-known simple evolutionary multi-objective optimizer (SEMO) as a subprocedure into APS, ε-dominance has to be used to achieve fast convergence to the Pareto front. Two general theorems are presented indicating how runtime complexity results for APS can be derived from corresponding results for SEMO. This may be a starting point for the runtime analysis of evolutionary SMOCO algorithms.
Allowing the Poor to Share the Earth
Authors: Pogge Thomas
Published: October 2011

Two of the greatest challenges facing humanity are environmental degradation and the persistence of poverty. Both can be met by instituting a Global Resources Dividend (GRD) that would slow pollution and natural-resource depletion while collecting funds to avert poverty worldwide. Unlike Hillel Steiner's Global Fund, which is presented as a fully just regime governing the use of planetary resources, the GRD is meant as merely a modest but widely acceptable and therefore realistic step toward justice. Paula Casal has set forth various ways in which this step might be improved upon. Solid counter-arguments can be given to her criticisms and suggestions. But to specify the best (effective and realizable) design of an appropriate global institutional mechanism with some confidence, economists, political scientists, jurists, environmental scientists, and activists would need to be drawn in to help think through the immense empirical and political complexities posed by this urgent task.
Can Wars Be Fought Justly? The Necessity Condition Put to the Test
Authors: Statman Daniel
Published: October 2011

According to a widespread view, the same constraints that limit the use of otherwise immoral measures in individual self-defense apply to collective self-defense too. I try to show that this view has radical implications at the level of jus in bello, implications which have not been fully appreciated. In particular, if the necessity condition must be satisfied in all cases of killing in war, then most fighting would turn out to be unjust. One way to avoid this result is to adopt a contractualist view of killing in war, a view which interprets the necessity condition in a way that is more permissive with regard to killing combatants in war. At least in this respect, a contractualist view of killing in war has an advantage over other candidates in explaining how wars might be fought justly.
The Virtues (and a Few Vices) of Daniel Russell's Practical Intelligence and the Virtues
Authors: Toner Christopher
Published: October 2011

Daniel Russell's Practical Intelligence and the Virtues is principally a defense of the Aristotelian claim that phronesis is part of every unqualified virtue—a defense of what Russell calls "hard virtue theory" and "hard virtue ethics." The main support for this is the further claim that we would be unable to act well reliably, or form our character reliably, without phronesis performing its "twin roles": correctly identifying the mean of each virtue, and integrating the mean of each virtue with those of others so as to enable us to act in an overall virtuous manner. In following Russell's argument for these claims, we find much else of interest, including a persuasive account of right action and a resurrection of the old doctrine of cardinal virtues. Here I seek first to give readers a sense of the range and depth of this important book by summarizing the main lines of its argument. But I also raise some critical points, the most substantive of which concern his treatments of the unity of the virtues and of responsibility for character.
Kept on File: The Secret Service's Activities against Popular Music in Hungary, 1960–1990
Authors: Szőnyei Tamás
Published: October 2011

The study shows that in the People's Republic of Hungary, within the frames of the mono-party system, the state security service—functioning according to the directives of the ruling communist party—was keen on trying to hinder the influence of Western ideologies from corrupting the youth through popular music. This fight was going on from the early '60s through 1990, the year that brought about the change of the political system, the transition from dictatorship to plural democracy, from planned economy to free market. To achieve their goal, to influence the functioning of the institutional system of popular music and to break the popularity of several beat/rock/folk/punk groups considered subversive, the secret service used—among other means—a web of informants. In doing so they could have some success, but in the end—due to the lucky turns of world politics—they just were not able to stop the collapse of the system. For the historian, however, these reports give a fascinating insight into the life of the young generation under state socialism and the moral ambiguities of resistance, co-existence and collaboration.
Double Presence: Proselytism and Belonging in an Angolan Prophetic Church's Diaspora in Europe
Authors: Blanes Ruy Llera
Published: October 2011

This article discusses the issue of proselytism and belonging among Angolan Christians in Europe, namely those belonging to the Tokoist Church, a propheticbased movement originated in Angola in the 1940s and later transnationalized into other African countries and Europe. Invoking fieldwork performed with the church in Lisbon and Luanda, I suggest that religious proselytism in diasporic contexts, as an expression of transnational religiosity, cannot be analyzed without approaching the issue of identity and belonging, which in turn is processed through the production of 'double presences,' a reflection of the multiple agencies and territorialities in which migrants are involved.
Gender and Return in the Kimbanguist Church of Portugal
Authors: Santos Joana , Sarró Ramon
Published: October 2011

This article analyzes some events related to the Kimbanguist church that have taken place in Portugal and in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It unearths a connection between an increasing feminization of practices and narratives within this church and the emergence of an ideology of return to Africa linked both to eschatological beliefs and to notions of 'mission,' 'example,' and 'success.' The article shows the advantage of a multi-sited fieldwork in the study of transnational religion, as well as the changing nature of religious institutions in today's world, in which socio-political dynamics in the migrants' new settings both affect and are affected by what happens in the headquarters of their religious institution.
Bringing Back the Gospel: Reverse Mission among Nigerian Pentecostals in Britain
Authors: Burgess Richard
Published: October 2011

This article discusses the concept 'reverse mission' in relation to Nigerian-initiated Pentecostal churches in Britain. It begins with a general discussion of the term 'reverse mission' before examining the discourse of reverse mission as it is employed by Nigerian Pentecostals in Britain. Finally, the article explores the actual achievements of Nigerian Pentecostals against the background of European secularism. It considers whether their presence is an indication of the re-emergence of religion as a social force in Britain. Studies of reverse mission sometimes measure success in terms of winning indigenous converts or adherents and consequently find migrant churches wanting. The article concludes that Nigerian Pentecostal churches are to some extent a social force in Britain and it suggests that the adoption of a broader conception of mission, which includes civic engagement, enables a more nuanced assessment of their achievements, at least as far as the British context is concerned.
The Role and Relevance of the Draft Articles on the Law of Transboundary Aquifers in the European Context
Authors: Allan A. , Tignino M. , Loures F.
Published: October 2011

In 2008, the UN International Law Commission adopted a set of 19 articles as a contribution to the codification and development of international groundwater law, and submitted them to the UN General Assembly. In view of the ILC's report, UNGA Resolution 63/124 takes note of the Draft Articles; commends them to the attention of governments; encourages States to apply and adjust the Draft Articles as a basis to negotiate specific aquifer agreements; and decides provisionally to examine the question of the final form that might be given to those articles at that body's 66 th Session. The Draft Articles offer an important basis for the progressive development of the law governing transboundary aquifers, in particular by acknowledging the complementary relationship between universal and regional or aquifer-specific legal instruments. In this context, the paper will assess the potential role and relevance of the Draft Articles' text, as it now stands, to guide European States in the sound management of the aquifers shared in the region. It will do so by comparing and evaluating the relationship between the Draft Articles and relevant European legal instruments, with particular focus on the issues of sustainability, planned measures, monitoring, emergencies, and the geographic scope of freshwater agreements. The analysis will show that, while these global and regional instruments can be mutually supportive, some important differences exist in the extent and content of the obligations under each of them.
The Philosophy of the Middle East Revolution, Take One: Nonviolence
Authors: Mallat Chibli
Published: October 2011

Against the sceptics, who see nonviolence as a serendipitous occurrence of the Middle East Revolution, the reality is that of a powerful, conscious determination of the revolutionaries in at least three countries where repression was immense, and where people refused to take up arms after the nonviolent precedents in Tunisia and in Egypt. In Bahrain, Yemen and Syria, the refusal to resort to violence is a conscious choice of hundreds of thousands of people. Th at clear appreciation of the power of nonviolence, in contrast to the revolutionaries in Libya, is the leitmotive of the Middle East Revolutions. Th e rebels in Libya made a mistake in taking up arms against Qaddafi , and lost Tripoli on the very day when the military front was constituted. Yet the rule remains, across the ME Revolution from the beginning of the paradigmatic shift in January 2011, in the attachment to nonviolence as the privileged means to revolutionary success.
Aesthetics and Transcendence in the Arab Uprisings
Authors: Moosa Ebrahim
Published: October 2011

Politics is regarded as a science for it tells us what to do, when it deals with measurable concepts. But politics is also an art—a form of practice, telling us how and when to do things. Lest we forget, the arts of persuasion and inspiration are part of politics. And, every art also produces an aesthetic. By aesthetics I mean, the ways by which we think about art: recall, art is what we do and how we do things. Th ose things and acts that become visible when we do and produce certain actions—jubilation, conversations, speeches, greetings, protests, banners, deaths, wounds and other expressions—all constitute the means by which thought becomes visible, eff ective, and sensible. Th ese forms and visible expressions of the sensible constitute the aesthetics of politics. Only the patient will know where the momentum for change in the Arab world is heading. But, if the outcome of the Arab uprisings is unclear, then there is one certainty: the people have changed the order of the sensible. Th anks to peaceful protests in the face of regime brutality, tens of millions of people have performed change in myriads of expressions: aesthetics. Th eir feelings have cumulatively changed, and how people feel about governance is ultimately what politics is all about.