bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Host Genetic Diversity in Malaria Infection
Authors: de Mendonça Vitor R. R. , Goncalves Marilda Souza , Barral-Netto Manoel
Published: December 2012

Populations exposed toPlasmodiuminfection develop genetic mechanisms of protection against severe disease. The clinical manifestation of malaria results primarily from the lysis of infected erythrocytes and subsequent immune and inflammatory responses. Herein, we review the genetic alterations associated with erythrocytes or mediators of the immune system, which might influence malaria outcome. Moreover, polymorphisms in genes related to molecules involved in mechanisms of cytoadherence and their influence on malaria pathology are also discussed. The results of some studies have suggested that the combinatorial effects of a set of genetic factors in the erythrocyte-immunology pathway might be relevant to host resistance or susceptibility againstPlasmodiuminfection. However, these results must be interpreted with caution because of the differences observed in the functionality and frequency of polymorphisms within different populations. With the recent advances in molecular biology techniques, more robust studies with reliable data have been reported, and the results of these studies have identified individual genetic factors for consideration in preventing severe disease and the individual response to treatment.
A Case of Chronic Granulomatous Disease with a Necrotic Mass in the Bronchus: A Case Report and a Review of Literature
Authors: Cheraghvandi Ali , Marjani Majid , Fallah Tafti Saeid , Cheraghvandi Logman , Mansouri Davoud
Published: December 2012

Chronic granulomatous disease is a rare phagocytic disorder with recurrent, severe bacterial and fungal infections. We describe an unusual case of chronic granulomatous disease manifesting as an invasive pulmonary aspergillosis with an obstructive necrotic mass at the right middle bronchus. The patient was successfully treated with a bronchoscopic intervention for the removal of the obstructive mass and a medical therapy.
Circadian Levels of Serum Melatonin and Cortisol in relation to Changes in Mood, Sleep, and Neurocognitive Performance, Spanning a Year of Residence in Antarctica
Authors: Premkumar Madhumita , Sable Tarulata , Dhanwal Dinesh , Dewan Richa
Published: December 2012

Background. Altered circadian cortisol and melatonin rhythms in healthy subjects exposed to an extreme polar photoperiod results in changes in mood and sleep, which can influence cognitive performance.Materials and Methods. We assessed the circadian rhythm of 20 subjects who wintered over at Maitri (70°S,11°E), India’s permanent Antarctic station, from November 2010 to December 2011. Serum cortisol and melatonin levels were measured by radioimmunoassay at 8 am, 3 pm, 8 pm, and 2 am in a single day, once each during the polar summer and winter photoperiods. Conventional psychological tests, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and a computerized neurocognitive test battery were used to measure mood, sleep, and cognitive performance.Results. The mean scores for DASS42 were higher during midwinter suggesting the presence of “overwintering.” Mean diurnal cortisol levels during summer and winter were comparable, but the levels of melatonin were markedly higher during winter. Higher 8 am melatonin levels were associated with better sleep quality, lower depression scores, and better performance in tasks like attention, visual memory, and arithmetic.Conclusion. Timing of artificial light exposure and usage of melatonin supplements in improving sleep and cognitive performance in expedition teams are of future research interest.
An Association between Emotional Responsiveness and Smoking Behavior
Authors: Keeley Robert D. , Driscoll Margaret
Published: December 2012

Introduction. Emotional responsiveness (ER) has been theorized to play a protective role in pathways to tobacco initiation, regular use, and dependence, yet a possible association between ER and smoking behavior has not been studied. Our aim was to test whether measuring ER to a neutral stimulus was associated with decreased odds of current smoking.Methods. We measured ER and smoking status (current, former, and never) in two datasets: a cross-sectional dataset of persons with diabetes (n=127) and a prospective dataset of depressed patients (n=107) from an urban primary care system. Because there were few former smokers in the datasets, smoking status was dichotomized (current versus former/never) and measured at baseline (cross-sectional dataset) or at 36 weeks after-baseline (prospective dataset). ER was ascertained with response to a neutral facial expression (any ER versus none).Results. Compared to their nonresponsive counterparts, adjusted odds of current smoking were lower among participants endorsing emotional responsiveness in both the cross-sectional and prospective datasets (ORs = .29 and .32,P’s<.02, resp.).Discussion. ER may be protective against current smoking behavior. Further research investigating the association between ER and decreased smoking may hold potential to inform treatment approaches to improve smoking prevalence.
Hybrid Polymer-Immobilized Nanosized Pd Catalysts for Hydrogenation Reaction Obtained via Frontal Polymerization
Authors: Pomogailo Anatolii D. , Dzhardimalieva Gulzhian I.
Published: December 2012

A new approach to the synthesis of mixed-type immobilized catalysts by frontal polymerization of metal-containing monomer in the presence of highly dispersed mineral support has been developed. Synthesis of the acrylamide Pd(II) nitrate complex, Pd(CH2=CHCONH2)2 (NO3)2 (PdAAm), on the SiO2 (Al2O3, C) surface and its consequent frontal polymerization and reduction lead to the formation of organic-inorganic composites with polymer-stabilized Pd nanoparticles. The immobilized metal complexes and palladium nanoparticles were characterized by various physical and chemical methods. The synthesized hybrid nanocomposites are efficient and selective catalysts for hydrogenation of cyclohexene, alkene, and acetylene alcohols, as well as di- and trinitrotoluene. Catalyst intermediates separated by nondestructive testing method have been described and changing in the palladium charge during the catalytic process has been identified.
Lack of Adequate Predialyis Care and Previous Hemodialysis, but Not Hemoglobin Variability, Are Independent Predictors of Anemia-Associated Mortality in Incident Brazilian Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: Results from the BRAZPD Study
Authors: Gonçalves Simone M. , Dal Lago Eduardo Andreazza , de Moraes Thyago P. , Kloster Sandra Contador , Boros Gustavo , Colombo Milena , Raboni Lenisa , Olandoski Márcia , Fernandes Natália , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Divino Filho José Carolino , Pecoits-Filho Roberto ,   on behalf of the BRAZPD Study Investigators
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence of anemia and variability of hemoglobin (Hb) values in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients, to establish its associated factors and their impact on clinical outcomes in a large cohort of patients starting PD treatment. Methods: Data were collected monthly in incident patients, who were followed until the primary endpoint (death from all causes) or until leaving the study. Results: 2,156 patients starting PD were included. The prevalence of Hb lower than 11 g/dl was 57% at baseline and decreased to 38% at the 4th month. Lack of adequate predialysis care and previous treatment with hemodialysis were the most important factors associated with anemia. Anemia was an independent predictor of mortality. There were no differences in patient survival throughout the different groups of Hb variability. Conclusion: Our data point to the need of identifying other risk factors for anemia and aggressively interfere with the modifiable ones in order to correct anemia and decrease mortality in this group of high-risk patients.
Endoscopic Microvascular Decompression: A Stepwise Operative Technique
Authors: Lang Shih-Shan , Chen H. Isaac , Lee John Y.K.
Published: December 2012

Background/Aims: Microvascular decompression (MVD) of the trigeminal nerve is a widely accepted treatment for patients with trigeminal neuralgia caused by vascular compression. The neuroendoscope is rapidly becoming a complementary tool in minimally invasive neurosurgery of the ventral anterior skull base. Its adoption in the lateral approach to the posterior fossa has been slower and has been used primarily as an adjunct to conventional microscopic surgical techniques, e.g. endoscope-assisted microsurgery. Methods: In this paper, we describe a stepwise, technical commentary on a purely endoscopic MVD of the trigeminal nerve via the retrosigmoid route. Results: From our experience, the endoscope provides excellent visualization of the neurovascular relationship. By allowing full visualization of the trigeminal nerve, endoscopy may likely lead to an increase in the number of successful MVDs and a decrease in the number of complications. Conclusion: We believe endoscopic MVD is a safe and effective method of accessing the trigeminal nerve in the cerebellopontine angle and of performing MVD. This endoscopic technique can be implemented in other neurosurgical and neuro-otological procedures such as resection of cerebellopontine angle masses.
Genetic and Lifestyle Causal Beliefs about Obesity and Associated Diseases among Ethnically Diverse Patients: A Structured Interview Study
Authors: Sanderson S.C. , Diefenbach M.A. , Streicher S.A. , Jabs E.W. , Smirnoff M. , Horowitz C.R. , Zinberg R. , Clesca C. , Richardson L.D.
Published: December 2012

Background: New genetic associations with obesity are rapidly being discovered. People's causal beliefs about obesity may influence their obesity-related behaviors. Little is known about genetic compared to lifestyle causal beliefs regarding obesity, and obesity-related diseases, among minority populations. This study examined genetic and lifestyle causal beliefs about obesity and 3 obesity-related diseases among a low-income, ethnically diverse patient sample. Methods: Structured interviews were conducted with patients attending an inner-city hospital outpatient clinic. Participants (n = 205) were asked how much they agreed that genetics influence the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Similar questions were asked regarding lifestyle causal beliefs (overeating, eating certain types of food, chemicals in food, not exercising, smoking). In this study, 48% of participants were non-Hispanic Black, 29% Hispanic and 10% non-Hispanic White. Results: Over two-thirds (69%) of participants believed genetics cause obesity ‘some' or ‘a lot', compared to 82% for type 2 diabetes, 79% for heart disease and 75% for cancer. Participants who held genetic causal beliefs about obesity held more lifestyle causal beliefs in total than those who did not hold genetic causal beliefs about obesity (4.0 vs. 3.7 lifestyle causal beliefs, respectively, possible range 0-5, p = 0.025). There were few associations between causal beliefs and sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusions: Higher beliefs in genetic causation of obesity and related diseases are not automatically associated with decreased lifestyle beliefs. Future research efforts are needed to determine whether public health messages aimed at reducing obesity and its consequences in racially and ethnically diverse urban communities may benefit from incorporating an acknowledgement of the role of genetics in these conditions.
Relative Change in NT-proBNP Level: An Important Risk Predictor of Cardiovascular Congestion in Haemodialysis Patients
Authors: Pastural-Thaunat M. , Ecochard R. , Boumendjel N. , Abdullah E. , Cardozo C. , Lenz A. , M’Pio I. , Szelag J.C. , Fouque D. , Walid A. , Laville M.
Published: December 2012

Background: Cross-sectional studies have shown that B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and its N-terminal fragment (NT-proBNP) are predictive of cardiovascular death in haemodialysis (HD) patients. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that monitoring NT-proBNP measurements adds further prognostic information, i.e. predicts congestive heart failure (CHF) events. Methods: In a prospective cohort of 236 HD patients, NT-proBNP levels were measured monthly during 18 months. Patients were divided according to the occurrence of CHF events. In a nested case-control study, we assessed the evolution of NT-proBNP levels. Results: On average, the 236 HD patients were followed up for 12.5 months, a period during which 44 patients developed a CHF event (half requiring hospitalisation). At baseline, patients who developed a CHF event had significantly more dilated cardiomyopathy and/or altered left ventricular ejection fraction and higher NT-proBNP levels compared with patients who did not develop a CHF event. During follow-up, we observed a significant increase in NT-proBNP levels preceding the CHF event. At a 20% relative increase of NT-proBNP, the sensitivity of NT-proBNP as a predictor of CHF events was 0.57 and the specificity 0.77. Conclusion: The relative change in NT-proBNP levels is a significant risk predictor of a CHF event.
Lymphomatoid Papulosis in a Patient Treated with Adalimumab for Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Park Ji-Hye , Lee Jun , Lee Jae Hyung , Lee Dong-Youn , Koh Eun-Mi
Published: December 2012

Anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) agents are now well regarded as highly effective treatment modalities for multiple immunologically mediated diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and psoriasis. The mechanism of action for this particular class of medications involves the blockade of multiple intracellular signaling pathways originating from TNF-α, ultimately inducing a generalized immunosuppressed state. In fact, several cases of lymphomas have been reported in patients treated with anti-TNF-α agents, though it has been difficult to prove any degree of causality. Herein, we described a patient who developed lymphomatoid papulosis after being treated with adalimumab, whereby a clear causality could be established.
Neuroimmune Interactions in Sjögren’s Syndrome: Relationship of Exocrine Gland Dysfunction with Autoantibodies to Muscarinic Acetylcholine Receptor-3 and Mental Health Status Parameters
Authors: Deák Magdolna , Szvetnik Attila , Balog Attila , Sohár Nicolette , Varga Renáta , Pokorny Gyula , Tóth Gábor , Kiss Mária , Kovács László
Published: December 2012

Objectives: Antimuscarinic acetylcholine receptor-3 (m3AChR) autoantibodies have been described in primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS). The aim of this study was to compare various methods for their detection and to assess the contributions of anti-m3AChR and other immunological and psychosocial factors to the pathomechanism of secondary SS (sSS). Methods: Sixty-five rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, 103 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, 76 pSS patients and 50 controls were compared. Three immunodominant epitopes of m3AChR were synthesized and used in ELISA. Two extracellular epitopes were also prepared in fusion with glutathione-S-transferase and one in conjugation with bovine serum albumin. Mental health status was assessed with the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy fatigue scale. Correlations were evaluated between glandular function and anti-m3AChR positivities and specificities, features of SLE and RA, and mental health parameters. Results: Fourteen RA and 27 SLE patients had sSS. The autoantibody levels to all epitopes of m3AChR were significantly higher in pSS and SLE patients than in the controls. The fusion protein forms discriminated RA from pSS and SLE; furthermore, the YNIP fusion protein also distinguished pSS from SLE. The prevalence and the mean levels of all autoantibodies did not differ statistically between sicca and non-sicca SLE or RA patients. Glandular dysfunction correlated with higher age in SLE and RA and an impaired health-related quality of life in SLE. Conclusions: The second and third extracellular loops of m3AChR are antigenic in pSS. Immunoassays with antigens as fusion peptides demonstrate the best performance. Sicca SLE patients have worse mental health status. Anti-m3AChR antibodies represent a peculiar example of neuroimmune interactions.
Burkitt’s Lymphoma of the Ovary: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Shacham-Abulafia Adi , Nagar Ran , Eitan Ram , Levavi Hanoch , Sabah Gad , Vidal Liat , Shpilberg Ofer , Raanani Pia
Published: December 2012

Primary Burkitt’s lymphoma of the ovary is extremely rare. We report the case of a 39-year-old woman who presented with a 1-month history complaints of night sweats, abdominal pain and dyspnea. Physical examination demonstrated pleural effusions, ascites and an abdominal mass. Imaging showed enlargement of both ovaries extending to the surrounding tissue. Frozen sections on explorative laparotomy suggested granulosa cell tumor of the ovary, and thus extensive debulking was carried out. The final pathological report was compatible with Burkitt’s lymphoma. A systematic literature review revealed another 16 cases of ovarian Burkitt’s lymphoma. Characteristics predictive for the diagnosis of Burkitt’s lymphoma were: younger age, bilateral ovarian involvement, a rapidly progressive course and high LDH levels.
The Use of Ultrasound during Intrauterine Insemination in Unexplained Infertility May Improve Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Oztekin Deniz , Ozcinar Emine , Kose Can , Gulhan Ibrahim , Ozeren Mehmet , Tinar Sivekar
Published: December 2012

Objective: To investigate the role of ultrasound guidance in intrauterine insemination (IUI). Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted. The data was collected from the records of 197 couples with unexplained infertility who underwent IUI with a total of 267 IUI cycles in the in vitro fertilization center of our hospital between January 2009 and December 2010. Results: Of the 267 IUI cycles, 145 were carried out as US-guided, while 122 cycles IUI were performed with a blind procedure. In the US-guided IUI and blinded IUI groups, the pregnancy rates were 23.4 and 13.9%, respectively. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p = 0.049), thereby indicating that US guidance improves pregnancy rates. In the US-guided IUI group, 9.7% of the cases were difficult, while in the blinded IUI group, 26.2% were difficult and the difference between the groups was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: US guidance in IUI improves pregnancy rates and reduces the frequency of difficult IUI.
Decreased Glomerular Filtration Rate and Markers of Left Atrial Stasis in Patients with Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Providência Rui , Fernandes Andreia , Paiva Luís , Faustino Ana , Barra Sérgio , Botelho Ana , Trigo Joana , Nascimento José , Leitão-Marques António
Published: December 2012

Background: It is currently unknown if the increased risk of stroke in subjects with chronic kidney disease and atrial fibrillation (AF) is due to the presence of left atrial stasis or to any other vascular or systemic conditions. Methods: This was a retrospective study of 372 subjects undergoing evaluation during an AF episode. The following markers of left atrial stasis were sought on transesophageal echocardiogram: left atrial or left atrial appendage thrombus (LAAT), dense spontaneous echocardiographic contrast (DSEC), and low flow velocities (LFV) in the left atrial appendage. Subgroup comparisons were performed according to the level of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation as follows: ≥90, 45–89.9, and <45 ml/min/1.73 m2. Results: LAAT was found in 11.6%, DSEC in 29.0%, and LFV in 14.9% of cases. A significant increase in the prevalence of DSEC was observed in the lower categories of eGFR: 37.8% in eGFR <45 ml/min, 30.7% in eGFR 45–89.9 ml/min, and 17.0% in eGFR ≥90 ml/min (p = 0.009; γ for trend = 0.297, p = 0.002). The same was observed when assessing left atrial abnormality, i.e. the presence of at least one of the former transesophageal echocardiogram changes. On multivariate analysis, clinical parameters from CHADS2 (congestive heart failure, hypertension, age ≥75, diabetes mellitus and stroke) and CHA2DS2-VASc (age 65–74, history of vascular disease, and female gender along with the clinical variables from CHADS2) were predictors of transesophageal echocardiogram changes and an additive predictive value was found for eGFR. Conclusions: Our results suggest an association between compromised renal function as assessed through eGFR and markers of left atrial stasis in patients with AF. The increased risk of stroke in this population may be due to thromboembolism.
Surgical Closure of Nasoseptal Defects: Postoperative Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Bast Florian , Heimer Anna , Schrom Thomas
Published: December 2012

Background: Nasoseptal defects are rather rare. The current therapy of choice is surgical closure. Objective clinical factors prove the efficacy of surgical intervention; however, to establish the quality of the procedure patients’ subjective quality of life assessments must also be considered. Methods: 31 patients participated in the study. The operation was always carried out according to the superior and inferior bipedicle bridge flap technique according to Schultz-Coulon. The patient survey was performed retrospectively, and patient satisfaction was evaluated using two different questionnaires: the Sino-Nasal Outcome Test 20 German Adapted Version (SNOT-20 GAV SDT) expanded by Neumann [2010], and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI). Results: Evaluation of the GBI revealed significant improvements in the total score and the subscore ‘general health’ and therefore an improved quality of life. Evaluation of the SNOT-20 GAV SDT showed a significant reduction in the total score and a significant reduction in the primary nasal symptoms as well as in the items typical of septum defects and therefore less discomfort caused by the nasoseptal defect. Conclusion: As the gold standard for treatment of septum perforation, successful surgical closure leads to an improvement in subjective quality of life.
A Longitudinal Study of Physical Function in Patients with Early-Onset Dementia
Authors: Tangen Gro Gujord , Londos Elisabet , Olsson Johan , Minthon Lennart , Mengshoel Anne Marit
Published: December 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to explore changes in mobility in terms of ambulation and transfer over 1 year in patients with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD), and to compare mobility in EOAD with patients with other types of early-onset dementia (EOOD). Method: Forty-two patients with EOAD and 30 patients with EOOD were included. All patients were home-dwelling and had mild or moderate degree of dementia. Mobility was assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), a modified version of the Clinical Outcome Variables Scale, timed stair walking, and timed rise from the floor. Results: The EOAD group performed significantly better than the EOOD group on all mobility tests. After 1 year, 25 persons with EOAD were tested again. The performance on TUG (p = 0.028) and stair walking (p = 0.02) had deteriorated at the 1-year follow-up in the EOAD group. Conclusion: Patients with EOAD performed better on mobility tasks than patients with EOOD, but their performance deteriorated at 1-year follow-up.
Added Diagnostic Value of 11C-PiB-PET in Memory Clinic Patients with Uncertain Diagnosis
Authors: Frederiksen K.S. , Hasselbalch S.G. , Hejl A.-M. , Law I. , Højgaard L. , Waldemar G.
Published: December 2012

Introduction: The added diagnostic value of 11C-PiB-PET for the assessment of the accumulation of cortical beta-amyloid in memory clinic patients with uncertain diagnosis remains undetermined. Methods: All patients who underwent PiB-PET at the Copenhagen Memory Clinic between March 2008 and November 2011 were included in this uncontrolled, retrospective study. The standard diagnostic evaluation program included physical and neurological examination, cognitive and functional assessment, a cranial CT or MRI, functional imaging and cerebrospinal fluid sampling. Based on anonymized case reports, three experienced clinicians reached a consensus diagnosis and rated their confidence in the diagnosis before and after disclosure of PiB-PET ratings. PiB-PET scans were rated as either positive or negative. Results: A total of 57 patients (17 females, 30 males; age 65.7 years, range 44.2–82.6) were included in the study. Twenty-seven had a positive PiB-PET scan. At the first diagnostic evaluation, 16 patients were given a clinical Alheimer’s disease diagnosis (14 PiB positive). Of the 57 patients, 13 (23%) were diagnostically reclassified after PiB-PET ratings were disclosed. The clinicians’ overall confidence in their diagnosis increased in 28 (49%) patients. Conclusion: PiB-PET adds to the specialist clinical evaluation and other supplemental diagnostic investigations in the diagnostic classification of patients with uncertain diagnosis in a specialized memory clinic.
Genotyping FOXG1 Mutations in Patients with Clinical Evidence of the FOXG1 Syndrome
Authors: Pratt D.W. , Warner J.V. , Williams M.G.
Published: December 2012

Rett syndrome is a well-defined neurodevelopmental disorder comprising characteristic clinical features of gait abnormalities, loss of purposeful hand movements, stereotypies, and autistic features. Mutations in the FOXG1 gene have been associated with a congenital variant of Rett syndrome. This is a report on the outcome of routine genetic testing to identify FOXG1 mutations in a patient population presenting with features of the FOXG1 syndrome, an entity thought to be distinct, but similar, to the congenital variant of Rett syndrome. We performed PCR and sequencing analysis of FOXG1 in MECP2-negative patients (n = 12) with phenotypic features of FOXG1 syndrome. FOXG1 MLPA analysis was also carried out. No mutations in FOXG1 were identified using this approach. We were unable to identify patients with features of the FOXG1 syndrome as having aberrant FOXG1 gene loci. Clinical notes are inherently subjective and may lack sufficient detail to reliably identify those with a syndromal spectrum. The results call into question the objectivity of outlining a complex syndrome according to clinical manifestations and highlight the need for a greater involvement of molecular diagnostic techniques in the diagnosis of Rett-like disorders.
Don't Come Home, America: The Case against Retrenchment
Authors: Brooks Stephen G. , Ikenberry G. John , Wohlforth William C.
Published: December 2012

After sixty-five years of pursuing a grand strategy of global leadership—nearly a third of which transpired without a peer great power rival—has the time come for the United States to switch to a strategy of retrenchment? According to most security studies scholars who write on the future of U.S. grand strategy, the answer is an unambiguous yes: they argue that the United States should curtail or eliminate its overseas military presence, abolish or dramatically reduce its global security commitments, and minimize or eschew efforts to foster and lead the liberal institutional order. Thus far, the arguments for retrenchment have gone largely unanswered by international relations scholars. An evaluation of these arguments requires a systematic analysis that directly assesses the core claim of retrenchment advocates that the current “deep engagement” grand strategy is not in the national interests of the United States. This analysis shows that advocates of retrenchment radically overestimate the costs of deep engagement and underestimate its benefits. We conclude that the fundamental choice to retain a grand strategy of deep engagement after the Cold War is just what the preponderance of international relations scholarship would expect a rational, self-interested leading power in America's position to do.
Evaluation of the prestressing effects on the fatigue life of composite box sections
Authors: Sayyar M , Soroushian P , Weerasiri RR
Published: December 2012

Fatigue tests were conducted on non-prestressed and prestressed composite box sections. The approach to prestressing of composite structures seeks to eliminate compressive stress excursions under fatigue loading. This approach increased the fatigue life of composite structures; the experimental gains in fatigue life were in agreement with theoretical prediction. The tensile prestress developed in the composite structure mitigate compressive stress excursions under fatigue load, which significantly enhance the fatigue life of composites. Flexural fatigue tests were conducted through repeated application of a constant deformation, with the maximum load level monitored throughout the tests. The repeated (constant) deformation was selected to produce 70% of the ultimate (quasi-static) flexural strength of each of the prestressed and non-prestressed composite box sections. Two prestressed and two non-prestressed specimens were tested under (displacement controlled) fatigue loading–unloading conditions. The fatigue life of non-prestressed composite sections was reached upon local buckling of top flange (which experienced the maximum compressive stress). For both non-prestressed and prestressed composite sections, failure was defined as the number of cycles after which the peak load (at constant repeated deformation) dropped to 70% of the value in the first cycle. The fatigue life of prestressed composite sections was about 100% greater than that of non-prestressed sections. The residual strength of prestressed sections after fatigue loads was, on the average, 56% greater than that of non-prestressed sections. The experimental results indicated that contribution of prestressing to the fatigue life of composite sections was significant.
Raising Middle-class Black Children: Parenting Priorities, Actions and Strategies
Authors: Vincent Carol , Rollock Nicola , Ball Stephen , Gillborn David
Published: December 2012

The enrolment of middle-class children in extra-curricular activities is a recent trend in many affluent countries. It is part of what Annette Lareau refers to as a classed parenting style – ‘concerted cultivation’ which sees the child as a project with skills and talents to be fostered and developed. Controversially, Lareau argued that class, rather than race, was the most influential factor in determining this particular parenting style. In relation to our research with Black middle-class parents, we argue that the task for the researcher is attempting to understand how race and class differently interact in particular contexts. We conclude that a focus on Black Caribbean heritage families can further develop the concept of concerted cultivation, and demonstrate the complex ways in which, for these families, such a strategy is a tool of social reproduction but also functions as attempted protection against racism in White mainstream society.
Entrepreneurship and growth
Authors: Wright Mike , Stigliani Ileana
Published: December 2012

The entrepreneurial growth literature is extensive, but research focusing on questions such as how firms grow, why they grow according to different patterns, how the decisions about growing or not growing are made, and the contextual dimensions within which growth takes place, has been neglected. This annual review article explores such issues: it suggests that there is a greater need to understand the processes that underlie entrepreneurial growth. In particular, we need to know more about how the entrepreneur’s cognitive processes shape growth (i.e. microfoundations of growth), how they access and configure resources to achieve growth (i.e. the resource orchestration underpinning growth), whether these are influenced by a wider variety of contextual dimensions than previously recognised, and how these influence different patterns and types of growth.
Antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic studies of total saponin, alkaloid and sterols contents of decoction of Joshanda
Authors: Khan Haroon , Khan Murad Ali , Abdullah
Published: December 2012

The current study was aimed to assess antibacterial, antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of total saponin, alkaloid and sterol contents of Joshanda decoction followed by its constituent’s analysis via thin layer chromatography (TLC). Saponins and alkaloids showed prominent antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus and Klebsiella pneumoniae whereas sterols only against S. aureus. Saponin and alkaloid contents of 97 and 108 µg/ml, respectively, showed prominent free radical scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhidrazyl, with mild cytotoxicity in brine shrimp cytotoxic test. Under ultraviolet light at 254 nm, TLC of total saponins showed eight different compounds, total sterols comprising three while total alkaloids two compounds of various polarities. It is concluded that the various contents of Joshanda decoction possess outstanding susceptibility against bacteria implicating primarily upper respiratory tract infections augmented by strong antioxidant activity.
Theories of action in the field of child participation: In search of explicit frameworks
Authors: Stoecklin Daniel
Published: December 2012

The article explores child participation from the perspective of the sociology of action. Despite the important literature on child participation following adoption of the UNCRC, a consistent theory of child participation is still missing. The distinction between the child as a subject of rights and the child as a social actor draws attention to the cumulative and systemic nature of action. Applications of a new model going in this direction are presented. They foster discussion on children’s agency and give insights for assessing implicit theories of action lying behind child participation.
Disputed climate science in the media: Do countries matter?
Authors: Grundmann Reiner , Scott Mike
Published: December 2012

This article presents findings from a large-scale newspaper analysis of climate change discourses in four developed countries, using corpus linguistics methodology. We map the discourse over time, showing peaks and troughs of attention and explaining their causes. Different connotations of common terms such as global warming and climate change in different countries are analysed. Cluster and key-word analysis show the relative salience of specific words and word combinations during crucial periods. We identify main claims makers and the relative visibility of advocates and sceptics. The main finding is that former are far more prominent in all countries. We also look at the coverage of ‘climategate’. Finally, we make reference to existing theoretical frameworks.
Orchestra rehearsal strategies: Conductor and performer views
Authors: Biasutti Michele
Published: December 2012

This article is a qualitative study of conductor and performer views of orchestra rehearsal strategies. Twenty professional musicians (10 conductors and 10 performers) participated in a research survey studying orchestra rehearsal strategies including organisation, rehearsal methods, rehearsal priorities and conductor/player rehearsal skills. A qualitative analysis of the answers given by participants was undertaken using an inductive method and two main themes emerged: social issues of collective study, and strategies for collective study. Analysis of this study provides evidence of orchestra rehearsal strategies employed by conductors and performers, who all showed a common orientation in the use of metacognition strategies; they also shared a goal-oriented practice approach, and awareness of rehearsal organisation. The research reveals the relationship between cognitive and social dimensions and that the ability to develop a coherent rehearsal plan was related to the importance of creating a friendly environment considering the performers’ needs. Also, management and problem solving skills were considered of great significance for a conductor as professional rehearsals are inevitably subject to restrictive time constraints.
Material and Credentialing Incentives as Symbolic Violence
Authors: Hasrati Mostafa
Published: December 2012

This article reports the results of a qualitative study on the joint publication of research articles by a group of supervisors and graduate students in an Iranian university. The results indicate that the ministry-regulated incentive system for publication had increased the research output of the participants. It argues that material and credentialing incentives for supervisors can be regarded as symbolic violence in the exercise of disciplinary power, which required that the participants form local communities of practice and interconnect with international journal reviewers to get their articles published.
A meso-scale analysis method for the simulation of nonlinear damage and failure behavior of reinforced concrete members
Authors: Du Xiuli , Jin Liu , Ma Guowei
Published: December 2012

Based on the meso-mechanical analysis model of concrete material, a meso-scale numerical approach is developed for the simulation of failure behavior and nonlinear mechanical properties of reinforced concrete members. The present meso-mechanical approach, i.e. so-called the meso-element equivalent method, is capable of capturing the important characteristic of concrete heterogeneity. Two reinforced concrete columns of different sizes subjected to uniaxial compression is simulated using both a macro-scale homogeneous and a meso-scale heterogeneous model to illustrate the rationality of the meso-scale approach. In the simulations, perfect bond between concrete and reinforcing steel is assumed. The meso-scale simulation results are compared with the macro-scale results as well as the experimental observations. Results of the simulation at the meso-scale are in good agreement with experiments in terms of the failure patterns and the global mechanical properties, which demonstrate the rationality and accuracy of the present meso-mechanical approach. The present meso-scale approach can well simulate not only the macroscopic mechanical properties of the two reinforced concrete columns but also their failure process, such as the buckling behavior of the longitudinal reinforcement, the necking fracture of the stirrups, the broken positions of concrete, etc. Besides that it can be concluded from the numerical results that the present meso-mechanical approach can be extended to investigate the size effect in reinforced concrete members.
A damage-based cohesive zone model of intergranular crack growth in a nickel-based superalloy
Authors: Sun Yaofeng , Maciejewski Kimberly , Ghonem Hamouda
Published: December 2012

A cohesive zone model is utilized to simulate grain boundary interface decohesion under load reversals with hold time being imposed at the maximum load level. This study considers the role of creep–fatigue and environment, which have been introduced as scalar damage parameters. These parameters are coupled with the traction–displacement laws governing the grain boundary cohesion and surrounding time-dependent deformation field. The accumulation of reversible fatigue damage is described using a damage rate law as a function of the elastic potential energy of the interface while creep damage is introduced using a modified Kachanov–Rabotnov type law. The role of environment is modeled by considering the grain boundary dynamic embrittlement occurring as a consequence of oxygen diffusion and accumulation in the grain boundary fracture path. The separation of damage laws into creep, fatigue, and environment, allows the examination of the influence of the different mechanisms on the intergranular crack growth rate. Theoretical aspects of the model are discussed and finite element simulations of intergranular crack growth are performed on a nickel-based superalloy, IN100, at 700℃ to illustrate the main features of the model and its comparison with the experimental data.
Collaborative product innovation network: Status review, framework, and technology solutions
Authors: Song Wenyan , Ming Xinguo , Wang Pengpeng
Published: December 2012

The study aims to present framework and technology solutions for collaborative product innovation based on the status review. Companies are facing challenges including increasing product complexity, shorter product lifecycle, higher cost of research and development, and so on. To deal with these challenges, firms adopted practice of innovation network to co-innovate with suppliers, customers, and other external partners. However, in the past, segmental researches were mainly focused at the strategy level rather than at the project level, which provides specific guidance for product innovation. Thus, in this work, the authors propose a framework of collaborative product innovation network at the project level based on the review of innovation network. Technology solutions for collaborative product innovation network (modular product innovation network development and ontology-based knowledge integration) have also been proposed. Finally, an application in electric water heater development is also given to demonstrate the implementation and potentials of the framework.
Case report of interstitial nephritis induced by bevacizumab therapy for glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Lomax Anna J , Hill Prue A , Ashley David M
Published: December 2012

Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive malignant brain tumor. The monoclonal antibody, bevacizumab, is active in recurrent disease via inhibition of angiogenesis. Proteinuria and renal thrombotic microangiopathy are known complications. We report a case of a patient developing acute renal failure with biopsy-proven interstitial nephritis while receiving bevacizumab for recurrent disease. The patient was otherwise well with a history of controlled hypertension. Renal function improved with discontinuation of bevacizumab and the administration of corticosteroid therapy.
Comparison of renal ultrasonographic measurements between healthy cats of three cat breeds: Ragdoll, British Shorthair and Sphynx
Authors: Debruyn Katrien , Paepe Dominique , Daminet Sylvie , Combes Anaïs , Duchateau Luc , Peremans Kathelijne , Saunders Jimmy H
Published: December 2012

Healthy cats of three cat breeds — Sphynx (n = 11), British Shorthair (n = 15) and Ragdoll (n = 15) — were included in this study. All cats underwent an ultrasonographic examination to assess renal length, cortical thickness, medullary thickness and corticomedullary ratio. Of all ultrasonographic measurements, renal length showed the highest variation. For all ultrasonographic dimensions, individual and kidney side (left vs right) variation were much more pronounced than interbreed variation. Sphynx cats tended to have larger kidneys (4.09 ± 0.33 cm) than British Shorthair (3.77 ± 0.43 cm) and Ragdoll cats (3.87 ± 0.41 cm). British Shorthair cats, however, tended to have a thinner cortex (0.67 ± 0.13 cm) and medulla (0.76 ± 0.18 cm) than Sphynx (0.76 ± 0.14 cm and 0.90 ± 0.25 cm, respectively) and Ragdoll cats (0.75 ± 0.13 cm and 0.91 ± 0.22 cm, respectively). However, statistical tests did not reveal significant differences between these cat breeds. The corticomedullary ratio was similar for the three cat breeds (Sphynx: 0.93 ± 0.43; British Shorthair: 0.91 ± 0.26; Ragdoll: 0.88 ± 0.31). The left kidney (3.83 ± 0.42 cm) was significantly smaller than the right kidney (3.99 ± 0.40 cm) and showed a thicker medulla (left: 0.93 ± 0.21 cm, right: 0.79 ± 0.22 cm), and thus a lower corticomedullary ratio (left: 0.80 ± 0.23, right: 1.01 ± 0.32). For the cortical thickness, no significant difference was observed between the left (0.71 ± 0.14 cm) and right kidney (0.74 ± 0.14 cm).
Effects of shear stiffness in top foil structure on gas foil bearing performance based on thick plate theory
Authors: Xu Fangcheng , Liu Zhansheng , Zhang Guanghui , Cao Zhixuan
Published: December 2012

The effects of top foil shear stiffness for an incompressible journal foil bearing are discussed based on thick plate theory of top foil. The structural model includes bending, shear of thick plate and elastic foundation effects of bump foil. By employing the finite element method and the finite difference method, the compressible gas lubricated Reynolds equation and the film thickness equation are solved coupled together. The static characteristics such as film thickness and attitude angle are obtained and compared with literature results to verify the validation of the proposed method. Then the numerical results of thick plate model are compared with Kirchhoff plate model to study the shear stiffness effects in top foil structure on bearing performance. Results demonstrate that shear stiffness effects are significant in an elastically supported foil bearing and the shear effects should be considered in the estabilishment of 2D plate top foil model.
Cosmopolitan empire
Authors: Sieg Katrin
Published: December 2012

The annual Eurovision Song Contest has provided a venue where participating nations from the former Soviet bloc, whose relation to Europeanness may be tenuous, strive to perform claims to belonging and partnership. Yet the increasing emphasis on ‘diversity’ in the representation of an expanding Europe has created difficulties for Central and Eastern European countries, which historically were positioned as ‘ethnic’, if not racialized vis-à-vis western European powers. Nevertheless, Central and Eastern European participants in the Contest have engaged with cosmopolitanism as the key term through which Europe has come to define itself. Through a close, historically contextualized analysis of two songs, the article argues that Central and Eastern European participants in the Contest have developed alternative discourses of cosmopolitanism that furnish a corrective to the increasingly reductive equation of the concept with cultural diversity.
Assessment of Indoor Environmental Quality in Open-Plan Offices
Authors: Hwang Taeyon , Kim Jeong Tai
Published: December 2012

This study aims to analyze the factors of indoor environment on occupants’ health and comfort by post-occupancy evaluation (POE) and to accumulate the fundamental data of occupants’ behaviour in relation to indoor environment, in an effort to ascertain the optimal building energy management system (BEMS). For this purpose, indoor temperature, relative humidity, vertical temperature distribution, air velocity, predicted mean vote (PMV), radiant temperature, outdoor temperature, and humidity were measured for evaluating thermal environment for nearly 2 years. Indoor air contaminants, such as PM10, CO2, formaldehyde, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were measured in the building and at outdoor locations. Working plane illuminance, window luminance, and the equivalent continuous a-weighted sound pressure level (Leq) were also monitored. In addition, the occupants in the intelligent office building were surveyed regarding the indoor environmental quality via the intranet. Results showed that all indoor environmental factors satisfied the recommendation, except the indoor relative humidity and PMV. The physical factors of thermal environment had been stable since two months after it was built. However, it should be necessary to improve the sound privacy caused by low background noise, seasonal air-conditioning for appropriate humidity, air freshness, and Video Display Terminal (VDT) glare in order to reduce the level of occupants’ annoyance.