bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Tentative Analysis of the Linguistic Roots of Structuralist Literary Criticism — From a Semiotic Interdisciplinary Perspective
Authors: Zhang Lianglin
Published: May 2014

As a revolt against the traditional extrinsic approaches to literature, structuralist literary criticism flourished as an important literary movement in the 1950s and 1960s. However, its difficulties cannot be ignored. The failure of structuralist literary criticism can be found deeply rooted in structural linguistics. In the European tradition of semiology, structuralism is equated with semiotics, as is evidenced in Terence Hawkes’ Structuralism and Semiotics. Guided by the spirit of semiotic interdisciplinarity, the present paper makes an interdisciplinary investigation into the linguistic roots of structuralist literary criticism. First of all, the concept of “a closed system,” initially established by Ferdinand de Saussure in his Course in General Linguistics, occupies a predominant position in structuralist criticism. Secondly, structuralist literary criticism borrows the principle of digging various levels of structures from structural linguistics. Thirdly, the typical notion of relations in structural linguistics is also widely used in structuralist literary analysis. Probing into the linguistic roots of structuralist criticism helps to make clear the cause of the failure of structuralist criticism.
Preparation of syndiotactic polystyrene using novel monotitanocene with ortho-substituted phenoxy ligands
Authors: Zhang Ling , Xiao Shanshan , Huang Shaowen , Zhu Fangming , Wu Qing
Published: May 2014

Four new Cp*Ti compounds with ortho-substituted phenoxy ligands for the syndio- specific polymerization of styrene were prepared by the reaction of various kinds of ortho- substituted phenol with Cp*TiCl3 in the presence of triethylamine. Their catalytic properties for syndiospecific polymerization of styrene were investigated at different AlMAO/Ti ratio, different AlTIBA/Ti ratio and different polymerization temperature. All four compounds in the presence of cocatalyst methylaluminoxane (MAO) and triisobutylaluminum (TIBA) showed good performance at lower concentrations of titanium, MAO, and TIBA. Especially, ( Cp*Ti(OPhMe)3)/MAO system afforded syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) with the highest activity and high molecular weight.
Relationship-focused humor styles and relationship satisfaction in dating couples: A repeated-measures design
Authors: Caird Sara , Martin Rod A.
Published: May 2014

This investigation used a repeated-measures diary methodology to examine associations between humor styles used in the context of dating relationships and relationship satisfaction over time. Over a period of three weeks, undergraduate students (
Schriftquellen zur westafrikanischen Geschichte
Authors: Stamm Volker
Published: May 2014

Erst allmählich breiten sich die Kenntnisse darüber aus, dass westafrikanische Gesellschaften über eine umfangreiche und sehr komplexe Schrifttradition verfügen. Eng mit der islamischen Kultur verbunden, deckt sie all die Themen ab, die Arbeitsbereiche der europäischen Historiographie darstellen: politische, wirtschaftliche und soziale Geschichte, Geistes-, Rechts- und Kulturgeschichte. Zu großen Teilen sind diese Quellen nicht erschlossen, viele davon noch nicht aufgefunden und registriert. Die vorrangige Aufgabe der Historiker liegt deshalb darin, die Bestände zu identifizieren, zu sichern, zu katalogisieren und sodann zu bearbeiten und zu edieren. Auf dieser Grundlage sind völlig neue Einsichten in die Entwicklung Westafrikas möglich, die sowohl die Besonderheiten der Region zutage treten lassen wie auch ihre Einbeziehung in die Universalgeschichte erleichtern und zugleich zeigen, dass die geschichtswissenschaftliche Methodik einen angemessenen Zugang dazu gestattet.
University students and the risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in Uganda: The Crane Survey
Authors: Rutherford George W. , Anglemyer Andrew , Bagenda Danstan , Muyonga Michael , Lindan Christina P. , Barker Joseph L. , Johnston Lisa , Hladik Wolfgang
Published: May 2014

Adolescents and young adults are at high risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in sub-Saharan Africa. Previous reports have found that university students in Africa comprise a sexually active population, although the prevalence of HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STI) has not been measured. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of students from five large universities in Kampala, Uganda, using respondent-driven sampling. We asked students to complete behavioral questionnaires and provide biological samples to test for HIV, Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum, Trichomonas vaginalis, and bacterial vaginosis. We enrolled 649 students and obtained interpretable data from 640. Around 50% of the respondents were male, and the mean age was 22 years. An estimated 0.8% (95% CI 0.0–2.0) of male students had Chlamydia infection, approximately 4.3% (95% CI 2.0–7.0) had syphilis, 0.4% (95% CI 0.0–0.9) had HIV, and none had gonorrhea. An estimated 32.6% (95% CI 22.4–40.8) of women had bacterial vaginosis, 2.5% (95% CI 0.7–6.3) had Chlamydia infection, 1.7% (95% CI 0.5–3.6) had syphilis, 1.0% (95% CI 0.0–2.4) had gonorrhea, 0.9% (95% CI 0.0–4.2) had trichomoniasis, and 0.9% (95% CI 0.0–1.8) had HIV. We found no significant risk factors for HIV or other STI among males. We also found that not using a condom during the latest sexual intercourse was significantly associated with HIV infection, other STI, or bacterial vaginosis (OR 2.16; 95% 1.26–3.78) among females. We conclude that while university students are sexually active and there is substantial risk for syphilis, there is little evidence of substantially increased HIV risk among them.
An efficient Monte Carlo solution for
problems with random matrices
Authors: Grigoriu Mircea
Published: May 2014

Random matrices, that is, matrices whose entries are measurable
functions of a random vector Z, are encountered in finite
element/difference formulations of a broad range of stochastic
mechanics problems. Monte Carlo simulation, the only general
method for solving this class of problems, is usual impractical
when dealing with realistic problems.
A new method is proposed for solving this class of problems. The
method can be viewed as a smart Monte Carlo simulation. Like Monte
Carlo, it calculates statistics for quantities of interest from
deterministic matrices corresponding to samples of Z. In
contract to Monte Carlo that uses a large number of samples of Z
selected at random, the proposed method uses a small number of
samples of this vector selected in an optimal manner. The method
is based on stochastic reduced models (SROMs) for Z, i.e.,
random vectors with finite numbers of samples, and surrogate
models expressing quantities of interest as known functions of
Z.
Theoretical arguments are followed by numerical examples providing
statistics for inverses of random matrices, solutions of
stochastic algebraic equations, and eigenvalues/eigenvectors of
random matrices.
The Sugar-Pie Game: The Case of Non-Conforming Expectations
Authors: Mullat Joseph E.
Published: May 2014

Playing a bargaining game, the players with non-conforming expectations were
trying to enlarge their share of a sugar-pie. The first player, who was not
very keen on sweets, placed an emphasis on quality. In contrast, for the
second player, all sweet options, whatever they might be, were open. Thus,
this paper aims to determine the negotiating power of the first player, if
equal division of the pie was desirable, i. e., both players aimed to get
1/2 of the available sweets.
Crystal structure of 2,2-dibromo-1-(4-fluoro-2-(4-fluorophenoxy)phenyl) ethanone, C14H8Br2F2O2
Authors: Yang Shuang-Hua , Zhai Zhi-Wei
Published: May 2014

C14H8Br2F2O2, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 11.009(1) Å, b = 15.787(2) Å, c = 8.687(1) Å, β = 112.912(1)°, V = 1390.7 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0449, wRref(F2) = 0.1309, T = 296 K.
Ion exchange membranes for vanadium redox flow batteries
Authors: Wu Xiongwei , Hu Junping , Liu Jun , Zhou Qingming , Zhou Wenxin , Li Huiyong , Wu Yuping
Published: May 2014

In recent years, much attention has been paid to vanadium redox flow batteries (VRBs) because of their excellent performance as a new and efficient energy storage system, especially for large-scale energy storage. As one core component of a VRB, ion exchange membrane prevents cross-over of positive and negative electrolytes, while it enables the transportation of charge-balancing ions such as H+, $${\text{SO}}_4^{2 - },$$ and $${\text{HSO}}_4^ - $$ to complete the current circuit. To a large extent, its structure and property affect the performance of VRBs. This review focuses on the latest work on the ion exchange membranes for VRBs such as perfluorinated, partially fluorinated, and nonfluorinated membranes. The prospective for future development on membranes for VRBs is also proposed.
Optimal mechanical and gas permeation properties of polypropylene-organically modified montmorillonite (PP-OMMT) nanocomposites
Authors: Al Herz Youssef , Madhuranthakam Chandra Mouli R. , Elkamel Ali , Mittal Vikas
Published: May 2014

This article focuses on obtaining optimal mechanical properties of polypropylene-organically modified montmorillonite (PP-OMMT) nanocomposites for different objectives using simulations. The primary objective was to minimize the cost of the PP-OMMT nanocomposites. The other aim was to obtain specific desired properties of the nanocomposite (irrespective of the nanocomposite cost). The later simulation results are useful in designing products where quality of the nanocomposite cannot be compromised (while the cost of the PP-OMMT is secondary). The properties that were optimized include Young’s modulus and oxygen permeation. Regression models were obtained and used to predict these properties as functions of corresponding compositions of the composites. Further, optimization procedures were simulated using these models along with other constraints and objective functions. All simulations were programmed using MATLAB version 7.10.0 (R2010a).
A new conductometric biosensor based on horseradish peroxidase immobilized on chitosan and chitosan/gold nanoparticle films
Authors: Valencia Germán Ayala , de Oliveira Vercik Luci Cristina , Vercik Andrés
Published: May 2014

A new conductometric biosensor was developed and characterized; the biosensor was based on horseradish peroxidase that was deposited in chitosan and chitosan/AuNPs films. The biosensors were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and current-voltage curves. Current-voltage curves in biosensors showed that the electrical conductivity and bistability in biosensors can be modulated by horseradish peroxidase. Horseradish peroxidase catalyzed the reduction of H2 O2 to H2 O with the oxidation of the prosthetic group (Fe3+) in the enzyme to Fe4+=O. Conductometric signal in the biosensors increased with the gradual increase of H2 O2 concentration, and it was due to the H2 O2 reduction. Linear hydrogen peroxide detection was observed for a concentration between 0 and 15 mm. The results proved that these biosensors could have promising industrial applications, due to its rapid and sensitive H2 O2 detection.
The broad diversity of CpCo(I) complexes
Authors: Thiel Indre , Hapke Marko
Published: May 2014

The presented review will focus on the systematic overview of the available synthetic approaches and the reactivity and the structural characteristics of selected mononuclear CpCo(I) complexes with (non)chelating neutral donor ligands. The complexes containing symmetrical or unsymmetrical neutral ligand combinations aside from the anionic cyclopentadienyl (Cp) ligand will be discussed and the differences to complexes with substituted Cp ligands will be considered in selected cases.
Managing Consumer Referrals on a Chain Network
Authors: Arbatskaya Maria , Konishi Hideo
Published: May 2014

We consider a monopoly that sets a price and differentiated referral fees to spread product information along a simple consumer communication network (a chain). The profit-maximizing solution involves standard monopoly pricing and referral fees that provide consumers with strictly positive referral incentives. Effective price discrimination among consumers based on their positions in the chain occurs both in the case of differentiated referral fees and in the case of uniform referral fees.
Thermographischer Detektor basierend auf einem
neuartigen Mikro-Spiegel Sensor
Authors: Rangelow Ivo W. , Sinzinger Stefan , Steffanson Marek , Holz Mathias , Ivanov Tzvetan , Kleindienst Roman , Kampmann Ronald
Published: May 2014

Wir berichten über die Entwicklung eines
Wärmebildgeräts, das auf einem
neuartigen, patentierten Sensor
basiert. Der Sensor besteht aus einer Matrix aus
Mikro-Spiegeln für deren Betreib keine
Energiezufuhr in Form von Strom oder Spannung und darüber hinaus keine
Kühlung notwendig ist. Die
Mikro-Spiegel verbiegen sich proportional zur
aufgenommen Wärmestrahlung
(Infrarot-Intensität), vergleichbar mit einem
bi-Metall-Thermometer.
Die Verbiegung des einzelnen Mikro-Spiegels wird durch
Auslenkung eines, an dem Spiegel reflektierten
Kaltlichtstrahles von einem konventionellen CCD-Sensor
erfasst und in Echtzeit-Wärmebilder
umgewandelt. Das System besteht aus optischen
Standardkomponenten. Durch Dünnschichttechnologien und
CMOS-Kompatibilität des Sensors
besitzt diese Innovation klare Kostenvorteile gegenüber aktuellen
Infrarotdetektoren.
Television History and the Cultural Politics of Remembering in The Crossing (1999)
Authors: Schwenk Maria-Constanze
Published: May 2014

Based on the TV re-enactment The Crossing (1999), this paper will argue that the film intertwines three modes of cultural memory: historiography, iconography, and mythology. As a complex blend of different visual and narrative codes, The Crossing unfolds a history of continuity that is closely related to the commemorative cult about George Washington and his victory at the Battle of Trenton in 1776. Released in the year of the bicentennial commemoration of Washington's death, the film reinscribes the visual and imaginary codes that make up the memory of the nation. The Crossing is thus both a storage medium of collective memory and a dynamic medium of remembrance that actively configures the past by echoing national images and narratives.
Subcortical Control of Precision Grip after Human Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Bunday Karen L. , Tazoe Toshiki , Rothwell John C. , Perez Monica A.
Published: May 2014

The motor cortex and the corticospinal system contribute to the control of a precision grip between the thumb and index finger. The involvement of subcortical pathways during human precision grip remains unclear. Using noninvasive cortical and cervicomedullary stimulation, we examined motor evoked potentials (MEPs) and the activity in intracortical and subcortical pathways targeting an intrinsic hand muscle when grasping a small (6 mm) cylinder between the thumb and index finger and during index finger abduction in uninjured humans and in patients with subcortical damage due to incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). We demonstrate that cortical and cervicomedullary MEP size was reduced during precision grip compared with index finger abduction in uninjured humans, but was unchanged in SCI patients. Regardless of whether cortical and cervicomedullary stimulation was used, suppression of the MEP was only evident 1–3 ms after its onset. Long-term (∼5 years) use of the GABAb receptor agonist baclofen by SCI patients reduced MEP size during precision grip to similar levels as uninjured humans. Index finger sensory function correlated with MEP size during precision grip in SCI patients. Intracortical inhibition decreased during precision grip and spinal motoneuron excitability remained unchanged in all groups. Our results demonstrate that the control of precision grip in humans involves premotoneuronal subcortical mechanisms, likely disynaptic or polysynaptic spinal pathways that are lacking after SCI and restored by long-term use of baclofen. We propose that spinal GABAb-ergic interneuronal circuits, which are sensitive to baclofen, are part of the subcortical premotoneuronal network shaping corticospinal output during human precision grip.
TRANSITION IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Induction of puberty
Authors: Dunkel Leo , Quinton Richard
Published: May 2014

Puberty is the period during which we attain adult secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive capability. Its onset depends upon reactivation of pulsative GNRH, secretion from its relative quiescence during childhood, on the background of intact potential for pituitary–gonadal function. This review is intended: to highlight those current practices in diagnosis and management that are evidence based and those that are not; to help clinicians deal with areas of uncertainty with reference to physiologic first principles; by sign-posting relevant data arising from other patient groups with shared issues; to illustrate how recent scientific advances are (or should be) altering clinician perceptions of pubertal delay; and finally, to emphasise that the management of men and women presenting in advanced adult life with absent puberty cannot simply be extrapolated from paediatric practice. There is a broad spectrum of pubertal timing that varies among different populations, separated in time and space. Delayed puberty usually represents an extreme of the normal, a developmental pattern referred to as constitutional delay of growth and puberty (CDGP), but organic defects of the hypothalamo–pituitary–gonadal axis predisposing to hypogonadism may not always be initially distinguishable from it. CDGP and organic, or congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism are both significantly more common in boys than girls. Moreover, around 1/3 of adults with organic hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism had evidence of partial puberty at presentation and, confusingly, some 5–10% of these subsequently may exhibit recovery of endogenous gonadotrophin secretion, including men with Kallmann syndrome. However, the distinction is crucial as expectative (‘watch-and-wait’) management is inappropriate in the context of hypogonadism. The probability of pubertal delay being caused by organic hypogonadism rises exponentially both with increasing age at presentation and the presence of associated ‘red flag’ clinical features. These ‘red flags’ comprise findings indicating lack of prior ‘mini-puberty’ (such as cryptorchidism or micropenis), or the presence of non-reproductive congenital defects known to be associated with specific hypogonadal syndromes, e.g. anosmia, deafness, mirror movements, renal agenesis, dental/digital anomalies, clefting or coloboma would be compatible with Kallmann (or perhaps CHARGE) syndrome. In children, interventions (whether in the form or treatment or simple reassurance) have been historically directed at maximising height potential and minimising psychosocial morbidity, though issues of future fertility and bone density potential are now increasingly ‘in the mix’. Apubertal adults almost invariably harbour organic hypogonadism, requiring sensitive acknowledgement of underlying personal issues and the timely introduction of sex hormone replacement therapy at more physiological doses.
Transcutaneous biopsy of adrenocortical carcinoma is rarely helpful in diagnosis, potentially harmful, but does not affect patient outcome
Authors: Williams Andrew R , Hammer Gary D , Else Tobias
Published: May 2014

Context

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignancy with high recurrence and mortality rates. The utility, sensitivity, and effect on patient outcome of transcutaneous adrenal biopsy (TAB) for single, large, adrenal masses are unclear.

Objective

This study evaluated the utility, diagnostic sensitivity, and effect on patient outcome of TAB in patients with ACC.

Design and setting

We conducted a retrospective review of the electronic medical records of all ACC patients who were evaluated at the University of Michigan Health System from 1991 to 2011. We evaluated the sensitivity of TAB for tumors with the final pathological diagnosis of ACC. We compared the characteristics and survival of patients with stage I–III disease who underwent TAB with those who did not undergo TAB.

Results

A total of 75 ACC patients with TAB were identified. Complications occurred in at least 11% of patients and were mainly associated with bleeding. The maximum sensitivity of the procedure in diagnosing ACC was 70%. For stage I–III patients, baseline characteristics, stage at diagnosis, and adjuvant treatment with mitotane or radiation were not significantly different between the TAB (n=36) and the non-TAB (n=254) groups. There was no significant difference in recurrence-free (P=0.7) or overall survival (P=0.7) between patients who underwent TAB and those who did not.

Conclusions

TAB of single, large, adrenal masses is usually unnecessary, exposes patients to risk, but does not affect recurrence-free or overall survival.
Association between l-thyroxine treatment, GH deficiency, and radiological vertebral fractures in patients with adult-onset hypopituitarism
Authors: Mazziotti G , Mormando M , Cristiano A , Bianchi A , Porcelli T , Giampietro A , Maffezzoni F , Serra V , De Marinis L , Giustina A
Published: May 2014

Objective

In this study, we aimed at evaluating the association between radiological vertebral fractures and levo-thyroxine (l-T4) replacement doses in adult patients with hypopituitarism.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

We studied 74 adult hypopituitary patients (males, 43; females, 31; mean age, 57 years; and range, 23–79) with central hypothyroidism treated with l-T4 (median daily dose: 1.1 μg/kg). All patients also had severe GH deficiency (GHD) and 38 of them were replaced with recombinant GH. Vertebral fractures were assessed by a quantitative morphometric analysis performed on thoracic and lumbar spine lateral X-ray.

Results

Radiological vertebral fractures were found in 23 patients (31.1%) in association with untreated GHD (P=0.02), higher serum free T4 levels (P=0.03), a higher daily dose of l-T4 (P=0.005), and a longer duration of hypopituitarism (P=0.05). When GHD was treated, the prevalence of vertebral fractures was more frequent (P=0.03) in patients receiving high l-T4 doses (third tertile: >1.35 μg/kg per day) as compared with patients who were treated with lower drug doses (first tertile: <0.93 μg/kg per day). Such a difference was not observed in patients with untreated GHD who showed a higher prevalence of vertebral fractures regardless of l-T4 daily doses. Multivariate analysis showed that untreated GHD (odds ratio: 4.27, 95% CI 1.27–14.33; P=0.01) and the daily dose of l-T4 (odds ratio: 4.01, 95% CI 1.16–14.39; P=0.03) maintained a significant and independent association with vertebral fractures in patients with central hypothyroidism.

Conclusions

Our data suggest for the first time that a relative overtreatment with l-T4 may influence the fracture risk in some patients with hypopituitarism.
Insights into Three Whole-Genome Duplications Gleaned from theParamecium caudatumGenome Sequence
Authors: McGrath Casey L , Gout Jean-Francois , Doak Thomas G , Yanagi Akira , Lynch Michael
Published: May 2014

Paramecium has long been a model eukaryote. The sequence of the Paramecium  tetraurelia genome reveals a history of three successive whole-genome duplications (WGDs), and the sequences of P. biaurelia and P. sexaurelia suggest that these WGDs are shared by all members of the aurelia species complex. Here, we present the genome sequence of P. caudatum, a species closely related to the P. aurelia species group. P. caudatum shares only the most ancient of the three WGDs with the aurelia complex. We found that P. caudatum maintains twice as many paralogs from this early event as the P. aurelia species, suggesting that post-WGD gene retention is influenced by subsequent WGDs and supporting the importance of selection for dosage in gene retention. The availability of P. caudatum as an outgroup allows an expanded analysis of the aurelia intermediate and recent WGD events. Both the Guanine+Cytosine (GC) content and the expression level of preduplication genes are significant predictors of duplicate retention. We find widespread asymmetrical evolution among aurelia paralogs, which is likely caused by gradual pseudogenization rather than by neofunctionalization. Finally, cases of divergent resolution of intermediate WGD duplicates between aurelia species implicate this process acts as an ongoing reinforcement mechanism of reproductive isolation long after a WGD event.
The Role of Exo1p Exonuclease in DNA End Resection to Generate Gene Conversion Tracts in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Yin Yi , Petes Thomas D
Published: May 2014

The yeast Exo1p nuclease functions in multiple cellular roles: resection of DNA ends generated during recombination, telomere stability, DNA mismatch repair, and expansion of gaps formed during the repair of UV-induced DNA damage. In this study, we performed high-resolution mapping of spontaneous and UV-induced recombination events between homologs in exo1 strains, comparing the results with spontaneous and UV-induced recombination events in wild-type strains. One important comparison was the lengths of gene conversion tracts. Gene conversion events are usually interpreted as reflecting heteroduplex formation between interacting DNA molecules, followed by repair of mismatches within the heteroduplex. In most models of recombination, the length of the gene conversion tract is a function of the length of single-stranded DNA generated by end resection. Since the Exo1p has an important role in end resection, a reduction in the lengths of gene conversion tracts in exo1 strains was expected. In accordance with this expectation, gene conversion tract lengths associated with spontaneous crossovers in exo1 strains were reduced about twofold relative to wild type. For UV-induced events, conversion tract lengths associated with crossovers were also shorter for the exo1 strain than for the wild-type strain (3.2 and 7.6 kb, respectively). Unexpectedly, however, the lengths of conversion tracts that were unassociated with crossovers were longer in the exo1 strain than in the wild-type strain (6.2 and 4.8 kb, respectively). Alternative models of recombination in which the lengths of conversion tracts are determined by break-induced replication or oversynthesis during strand invasion are proposed to account for these observations.
"As we fish and farm"
Authors: Lowitt Kristen
Published: May 2014

"As we fish and farm" is a short radio documentary that explores a changing food and fishing system in the Bonne Bay region on Newfoundland's west coast. It was developed as part of the interdisicplinary Community-University Research for Recovery Alliance (CURRA) project at Memorial University concerned with the recovery of fisheries and fisheries communities. The documentary features three individuals speaking about their personal and family histories in fishing and farming in Bonne Bay, and their challenges and hopes in continuing in these activities today.
Unilateral Vocal Fold Paralysis After Congenital Cardiothoracic Surgery: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Strychowsky Julie E. , Rukholm Gavin , Gupta Michael K. , Reid Diane
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

There is variation in the literature in regard to the occurrence of unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) after congenital cardiothoracic surgery. The objective of this study was to identify and appraise the evidence for the occurrence of UVFP after congenital cardiothoracic surgery in a meta-analysis.

METHOD:

A comprehensive search strategy in Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was conducted, limited to English publications. Two independent reviewers screened studies for eligibility criteria. Of the 162 identified studies, 32 (20%) met the inclusion criteria. Using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines, 2 reviewers appraised the level of evidence, extracted data, and resolved discrepancies by consensus. Weighted pooled proportion and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) are reported.

RESULTS:

Thirty-two studies (n = 5625 patients) were included. Levels of evidence varied from level 3 to 4. Among all studies, the weighted pooled proportion of UVFP was 9.3% (95% CI, 6.6% to 12.5%), and among 11 studies (n = 584 patients) that postoperatively evaluated patients with flexible nasopharyngolaryngoscopy to document presence of UVFP, the weighted pooled proportion of UVFP was 29.8% (95% CI, 18.5% to 42.5%). Twenty-one studies (n = 2748 patients) evaluated patients undergoing patent ductus arteriosus ligation surgery, and the weighted pooled proportion of UVFP was 8.7% (95% CI, 5.4% to 12.6%). Six of these (n = 274 patients) assessed all patients postoperatively, and the weighted pooled proportion of UVFP was 39% (95% CI, 18% to 63%). Pooled analyses of risk factors and comorbidities are reported. Heterogeneity and publication bias were detected.

CONCLUSIONS:

UVFP is a demonstrated risk of congenital cardiothoracic surgery. Routine postoperative nasopharyngolaryngoscopy for vocal fold assessment by an otolaryngologist is suggested.
O livro e o selo: editoras católicas no Brasil
Authors: Bittencourt Agueda Bernardete
Published: May 2014

Neste artigo, estuda-se o livro católico, partindo de uma pesquisa exploratória nos sites das mais conhecidas editoras e de entrevistas com editores. Tem-se, como finalidade, examinar os efeitos da circulação internacional das congregações religiosas na produção editorial no Brasil, buscando compreender as estratégias e os investimentos do clero e de leigos dedicados à produção de livros, revistas e jornais católicos. E, assim, seguir os movimentos de diferentes grupos, dentro das fileiras católicas, que têm se interessado pela produção de livros, procurando definir os espaços por eles ocupados na sociedade; interpretar seus vínculos, suas redes de solidariedade e suas redes sociais; comparar políticas, investimentos e estratégias com os momentos históricos da Igreja e da própria sociedade onde se inserem. Isto, sem perder de vista as relações das editoras católicas com o mercado do livro, suas inovações e seus desafios.
Limites e possibilidades da militância política em um movimento social rural de mulheres
Authors: Salvaro Giovana Ilka Jacinto , Lago Mara Coelho de Souza , Wolff Cristina Scheibe
Published: May 2014

Em um contexto de lutas de gênero, nas últimas três décadas, diferentes movimentos sociais rurais de mulheres contribuíram para a produção e reconhecimento da trabalhadora rural como sujeito político de direitos. Neste artigo, com o objetivo de analisar limites e possibilidades da militância política em um movimento social rural de mulheres, articulam-se os temas lutas de gênero e subjetividades. Para tanto, são retomadas e ampliadas reflexões apresentadas em pesquisa que fundamentou a tese de doutorado, realizada no período de 2006-2010. As informações empíricas que possibilitaram a elaboração da referida pesquisa foram obtidas por meio das pesquisas documental e etnográfica, com a realização de entrevistas, o acompanhamento e a observação de atividades desenvolvidas por um movimento social rural de mulheres em três municípios da Região Sul de Santa Catarina. O processo de envelhecimento feminino e a aposentadoria, os modelos locais de agricultura, o êxodo expressivo de parcelas da população rural, a não inserção e a participação restrita de mulheres mais jovens em atividades locais do movimento se apresentam como condições de possibilidade na análise dos limites da militância política.
Nem todas querem ser Madonna: representações sociais da mulher carioca, de 50 anos ou mais
Authors: Pereira Cláudia da Silva , Penalva Germano Andrade
Published: May 2014

O objetivo do presente trabalho é refletir sobre as representações sociais da mulher com 50 anos ou mais na cultura midiática. Se, por um lado, a cantora Madonna é celebrada como um dado modelo típico ideal de juventude e corpo para a sua idade, por outro, o que se encontra no discurso das cariocas de 50 anos consideradas "enxutas" nem sempre vai ao encontro desse imaginário social hegemônico e globalizado. Inspirada pelas relações entre as forças do contexto local e da homogeneização global, atuantes na construção simbólica das sociedades moderno-contemporâneas, empreende-se a uma comparação, respectivamente, entre a jovialidade da "garota de Ipanema" e o rejuvenescido "corpo de Madonna". Metodologicamente, a escolha por um estudo antropológico, combinado com a análise do discurso midiático, busca explorar, entre outras questões, o entendimento da expressão "tenho idade, mas não sou velha" ou de como vêm a se autorreferenciar as mulheres rotuladas como "cinquentonas" e, ao mesmo tempo, "ageless". Pretende-se, em suma, discutir o que é "ser jovem" na sociedade contemporânea, dentro da perspectiva de gênero, considerando-se, para tanto, dois modelos construídos a partir de representações locais e globais.
Experimental investigation of the evolution of elastic stiffness anisotropy in a clayey soil
Authors: MITARITONNA G. , AMOROSI A. , COTECCHIA F.
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the main results of a research study into the very small strain shear stiffness of a clayey soil, as measured in vertical and horizontal directions, Ghvand Ghh, respectively, by means of T-shaped horizontal bender elements fitted in a stress-controlled triaxial system. The testing programme was designed to investigate the evolution of the anisotropy ratio Ghh/Ghvalong isotropic (η = 0) and anisotropic (η ≠ 0) virgin radial paths. In particular, a reconstituted clay has been chosen as tested material in order to unequivocally relate the observed evolution of its stiffness anisotropy to the specific stress–strain histories imposed in laboratory. The results show that the small strain stiffness anisotropy smoothly adapts itself to the imposed strain history, achieving different constant values ranging from 1 to 1·2 for η ranging from 0 to 0·8. The experiments show that the complete modification of the directional elastic properties of the soil requires the virgin radial compression path to be extended along a new direction up a stress level at least four times larger than that experienced previously. Finally, the variations in the clay elastic anisotropy have been related to the changes in clay fabric as investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy. In this context, the variation of the fabric orientation has been quantified through a specific digital image processing.
Efficacy and Safety of Dulaglutide Monotherapy Versus Metformin in Type 2 Diabetes in a Randomized Controlled Trial (AWARD-3)
Authors: Umpierrez Guillermo , Tofé Povedano Santiago , Pérez Manghi Federico , Shurzinske Linda , Pechtner Valeria
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE

Compare the efficacy and safety of monotherapy with dulaglutide, a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist, to metformin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes. The primary objective compared dulaglutide 1.5 mg and metformin on change from baseline glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) at 26 weeks.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This 52-week double-blind study randomized patients to subcutaneous dulaglutide 1.5 mg, dulaglutide 0.75 mg, or metformin. Patients (N = 807) had HbA1c ≥6.5% (≥48 mmol/mol) and ≤9.5% (≤80 mmol/mol) with diet and exercise alone or low-dose oral antihyperglycemic medication (OAM) monotherapy; OAMs were discontinued at beginning of lead-in period.

RESULTS

At 26 weeks, changes from baseline HbA1c (least squares [LS] mean ± SE) were: dulaglutide 1.5 mg, −0.78 ± 0.06% (−8.5 ± 0.70 mmol/mol); dulaglutide 0.75 mg, −0.71 ± 0.06% (−7.8 ± 0.70 mmol/mol); and metformin, −0.56 ± 0.06% (−6.1 ± 0.70 mmol/mol). Dulaglutide 1.5 and 0.75 mg were superior to metformin (LS mean difference): −0.22% (−2.4 mmol/mol) and −0.15% (−1.6 mmol/mol) (one-sided P < 0.025, both comparisons), respectively. Greater percentages reached HbA1c targets <7.0% (<53 mmol/mol) and ≤6.5% (≤48 mmol/mol) with dulaglutide 1.5 and 0.75 mg compared with metformin (P < 0.05, all comparisons). No severe hypoglycemia was reported. Compared with metformin, decrease in weight was similar with dulaglutide 1.5 mg and smaller with dulaglutide 0.75 mg. Over 52 weeks, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting were the most common adverse events; incidences were similar between dulaglutide and metformin.

CONCLUSIONS

Dulaglutide improves glycemic control and is well tolerated as monotherapy in patients with early stage type 2 diabetes.
Effects of repeated blood donations on iron status and hematologic variables of canine blood donors
Authors: Ferreira Rui R. F. , Gopegui Rafael R. , Araujo Maria Manuela R. C. , de Matos Augusto J. F.
Published: May 2014

Objective—To evaluate the bone marrow regenerative response and iron status of canine blood donors subjected to repeated blood collections for 1 year.

Design—Prospective cohort study.

Animals—57 blood donor dogs.

Procedures—Hematologic variables, including reticulocyte percentage, were evaluated before and 10 days after each blood collection in 16 dogs donating 13% of total blood volume (TBV) every 2 months (group 1), 16 dogs donating 13% of TBV every 3 months (group 2), and 25 dogs donating 15% of TBV every 3 months (group 3) for 1 year. Serum concentrations of iron, transferrin, and ferritin were analyzed before inclusion in the study and 10 days after the last donation.

Results—Significant increases in RBC distribution width, platelet count, WBC count, and reticulocyte percentage were detected after blood donation in all groups. Dogs of group 2 had a significantly higher serum ferritin concentration than did dogs of group 1; dogs of group 1 had a significant decrease in serum ferritin concentration. A positive correlation between the number of blood donations and both RBC distribution width and reticulocyte percentage was found for all groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—All blood donation regimens induced a bone marrow regenerative response, which was able to restore depleted blood cells within 10 days after blood donation while maintaining iron status within the calculated reference range. However, dogs donating 13% of TBV every 2 months had a significant decrease in iron stores, which suggested that iron-related variables must be monitored during prolonged blood donor programs.
Toll-Like Receptors and their Contribution to Innate Immunity: Focus on TLR4 Activation by Lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Czerkies Maciej , Kwiatkowska Katarzyna
Published: May 2014

Mechanisms of innate immunity are triggered as a result of recognition of evolutionarily conserved structures of microorganisms, named pathogen-associated molecular patterns. Their recognition is mediated by specialized receptors which initiate signalling cascades leading to expression of pro-inflammatory mediators and regulation of acquired immunity. Among several classes of such receptors, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are extensively studied as they can sense an array of microbial cell wall and membrane components as well as single- and double-stranded RNA and DNA motifs typical for microorganisms. Each TLR consists of a ligand-binding domain containing leucine-rich repeats, a single transmembrane domain and a signalling TIR domain. After ligand binding, TLRs dimerize which facilitates the interaction of their TIR domains with adaptor proteins triggering signalling cascades. TLRs engage four common adaptor proteins, about ten signalling kinases, and a few transcription factors including NFκB, IRF and AP-1. In this review, special attention is paid to TLR4 activated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, since an exaggerated response to LPS may lead to potentially deadly septic shock. In recent years considerable progress has been made in the understanding of how the cooperation of several proteins, including CD14, TLR4/MD-2 complex and scavenger receptors, modulates the cell response to LPS. These studies have also revealed a dichotomy of signalling pathways triggered by TLR4 which depends on the participation of MyD88 and TRIF adaptor proteins and leads to the expression of genes encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines and type I interferons, respectively. The key event in the TRIF-dependent pathway is the internalization of activated TLR4.
Storytelling for the Masses: A Rhetorical Approach to Public Sector Transformations in Lithuania
Authors: Zidonis Zilvinas , Jaskunaite Neringa
Published: May 2014

This paper aims to shed new light on the “old-fashioned” concept of New Public Management from the perspective of rhetorical managerial activities. The role of rhetoric and narratives in governance, management and philosophy of science is discussed. Second, it is showed how and why post-modern private and public management has adopted persuasive speaking and narratives as a new managerial practice. The paper argues that New Public Management, rather to be considered as a theory or normative model, should be approached from the perspective of meta-narrative, based on classic myths, such as the myth of the Manichaean battle between Good (public sector reformers) and Evil (old-fashioned bureaucrats), and the myth of Salvation of Israelites (managers as public sector saviours). The arguments are illustrated with cases of propaganda rhetoric in the Lithuanian public sector: the construction of the nuclear power plant station and the development of knowledge economy. Finally, the article concludes that the rhetoric of public management reforms seeks to direct public opinion and aims to suggest “the agenda of our concern”.
Genetic parameters of carcass traits in ducks from a crossbred population
Authors: Mucha Sebastian , Gornowicz Ewa , Lisowski Mirosław , Grajewski Bartosz , Radziszewska Jolanta , Szwaczkowski Tomasz
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to estimate coefficients of heritability as well as genetic and phenotypic correlations among body weight and carcass traits. The dataset contained records of 387 birds from the second crossbred generation. The following traits were recorded: body weight (BW) at 11 weeks, carcass weight (CW), breast muscle weight including superficial and deep muscle (BMW), leg muscle weight including thigh and shank (LMW), wings weight (WW), skin with subcutaneous fat weight (SW), abdominal fat weight (AFW), skeleton with the back muscle and inedible elements (SBM), and liver weight (LW). Estimates of variance components were obtained by the average information - REML algorithm in the ASReml package. Very high slaughter yield (74.90%) was obtained. Generally, the coefficients of heritability were high. The highest one of 0.75 was estimated for body weight at 11 weeks. High coefficients of h2 were estimated for breast muscle weight (0.69), wings weight (0.70), carcass weight (0.65), skin with subcutaneous fat weight (0.57) and skeleton with the back muscle (0.58), whereas h2 of liver weight was 0.29. Both phenotypic and genetic relationships between the recorded traits were usually positive. Generally, it seems that the crossbreeding scheme can be perceived as a suitable proposal for the breeding practice.
Ammonia concentrations in a free-stall dairy barn
Authors: Herbut Piotr , Angrecka Sabina
Published: May 2014

The paper presents the results of research on indoor ammonia (NH3) concentrations in the air in a free-stall barn. The differences in measurement results mainly depended on the season and weather conditions. The study also showed a significant correlation (P<0.01) between the NH3 concentration and temperature, relative humidity and air movement velocity inside the barn. The lowest NH3 concentration was recorded in the summer (0.0 ppm) in the presence of high air temperatures, low humidity and increased exchange of ventilated air. In winter during severe frosts, highest ammonia concentration (8.0 ppm) was noted, caused by limited ventilation. The highest daily ammonia concentration was usually recorded during the night. This was due to increased relative air humidity and low air velocities. It was concluded that the average level of ammonia of 2.73 ppm during the entire year was significantly below values defined as harmful for animals and people.
A Place-Based Approach in EU Regional Development and Its Application in Latvia
Authors: Baltiņa Līga
Published: May 2014

The EU’s regional development policy is gradually moving from the redaction of regional disparities towards regional development growth. The role and involvement of regional and local authorities in regional development policy is increasing. Global changes and challenges call for a growing need to develop more efficient regional development policy instruments that would result in growth and increased quality> of life. Place-based approach is a strategic approach aimed at the development of territorial resources. The aim of this research is to evaluate the role of place-based approach in regional development, to identify and assess the main elements and opportunities brought by the implementation of such an approach.
The Influence of Cultural Competence on the Interpretations of Territorial Identities in European Capitals of Culture
Authors: Lähdesmäki Tuuli
Published: May 2014

The EU’s cultural initiative ‘the European Capital of Culture’ (ECOC) includes high identity political aims. It requires the designated cities to introduce and foster local, regional, and European cultural identities. In addition, the cities have used the designation as an opportunity to promote national cultural identity. Audiences of the ECOC events recognize and interpret different kinds of representations of territorial cultural identities from what the cities have to offer in culture. However, the contents of these interpretations vary drastically in the ECOCs. The article discusses whether the competence of interpreting the representations of territorial cultural identities is related to some social determinants of the audiences. Based on a questionnaire study conducted in recent ECOCs-Pécs (Hungary), Tallinn (Estonia), and Turku (Finland)-the study indicates that, for example, education, source of livelihood, and active cultural participation impact the interpretations of the representations of territorial cultural identities.
High precision computing of definite integrals with .net framework c# and x-mpir
Authors: Dzhambov Velichko
Published: May 2014

This paper concerns high precision numerical computing of definite integrals in a specific environment, namely .NET Framework. The work is a part of a series, tracing the progress of creating tools for high precision computations in this environment and may be considered as a continuation, in this direction, of the beginning, described in [15], that includes special function calculations with arbitrary precision. Some of the methods used are described. The results are clearly illustrated with the help of an application, purposefully created, using the current state-of-the-art library being created for realization of functions and numerical methods of arbitrary precision in a given environment.
Comparison of Nominal and Real Rigidities: Fiscal Policy Perspective
Authors: Krajewski Piotr
Published: May 2014

This paper examines the impact of nominal and real rigidities in the economy on the effects of fiscal policy. The study confirmed the hypothesis that both nominal and real rigidities enhance the impact of fiscal policy on the Polish economy. In the case of nominal price rigidity it was found that the impact of government spending on GDP depends on the conduct of monetary policy. On the other hand, under conditions of wage rigidity, the strength of fiscal multipliers depends on the slope of the labour supply curve. The study also examined two types of real rigidities - lack of access to the credit market, and consumer habits. Analyses show that the above rigidities result primarily in a strong positive relationship between government spending and the level of consumption.