bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVOLUTION OF PREY POLYMORPHISM INDUCED BY LEARNING PREDATORS
Authors: HOLMÉR JENNIE , GREEN MICHAEL
Published: April 2011

A prey species using crypsis to avoid predators has the opportunity to evolve polymorphic crypsis when it is being exposed to two (or more) habitats with different backgrounds. Here, we investigate when this phenomenon can occur, in a simulation study with a sexually reproducing prey and a predator that can learn to find hiding prey, represented by an artificial neural network. Initially, the prey is well adapted to one habitat, but tries to expand its range by invading another, different, habitat. This can cause the prey to evolve toward an intermediate phenotype, equally cryptic in both habitats. The prey can also fail in adapting to its new environment, and stay the same. Alternatively, it can evolve polymorphic crypsis. We find that the evolutionary outcome depends on the amount of dispersal between the habitats, with polymorphic crypsis evolving for low dispersal rates, an intermediate phenotype will evolve for intermediate dispersal rates and no adaptation to the new habitat will occur for high dispersal rates. The distribution of phenotypes of the prey will also vary for different dispersal rates, with narrow distributions for low and high dispersal rate and a wide distribution for intermediate dispersal rates.
CONTEMPORARY ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN POVERTY: A CASE STUDY OF MALAYSIA
Authors: AZMAN AZLINDA , SULAIMAN JAMALLUDIN , MOHD SAIDATULAKMAL , BABA ISMAIL
Published: April 2011

Poverty in Malaysia has decreased significantly from a relative high of more than 50% before independence in 1957 to less than 10% today. The incidence of hardcore or the absolute poor is less than 1%, according to official statistics in 2007. And, it is Malaysia's aim to achieve zero absolute poverty by 2015. However, the rate of poverty reduction based on recent data appears to have slowed down beginning the mid 1990s. The slowdown in poverty reduction raises serious concern as this affects the well-being of this disadvantaged group of population. Generally, the poor in Malaysia are the aged households, female and live in the rural areas. Several studies conducted in 2007–2008 identified several issues relating to poverty in the country. This paper will analyse some of the issues and suggest practical solutions that will benefit the poor population.
STABILITY ANALYSIS WITH APPLICATIONS OF A TWO-DIMENSIONAL DYNAMICAL SYSTEM ARISING FROM A STOCHASTIC MODEL FOR AN ASSET MARKET
Authors: BELITSKY VLADIMIR , PEREIRA ANTONIO LUIZ , DE ALMEIDA PRADO FERNANDO PIGEARD
Published: April 2011

We analyze the stability properties of equilibrium solutions and periodicity of orbits in a two-dimensional dynamical system whose orbits mimic the evolution of the price of an asset and the excess demand for that asset. The construction of the system is grounded upon a heterogeneous interacting agent model for a single risky asset market. An advantage of this construction procedure is that the resulting dynamical system becomes a macroscopic market model which mirrors the market quantities and qualities that would typically be taken into account solely at the microscopic level of modeling. The system's parameters correspond to: (a) the proportion of speculators in a market; (b) the traders' speculative trend; (c) the degree of heterogeneity of idiosyncratic evaluations of the market agents with respect to the asset's fundamental value; and (d) the strength of the feedback of the population excess demand on the asset price update increment. This correspondence allows us to employ our results in order to infer plausible causes for the emergence of price and demand fluctuations in a real asset market.

The employment of dynamical systems for studying evolution of stochastic models of socio-economic phenomena is quite usual in the area of heterogeneous interacting agent models. However, in the vast majority of the cases present in the literature, these dynamical systems are one-dimensional. Our work is among the few in the area that construct and study analytically a two-dimensional dynamical system and apply it for explanation of socio-economic phenomena.
APPLICATIONS OF A RELATIVE VARIATIONAL PRINCIPLE TO DIMENSIONS OF NONCONFORMAL EXPANDING MAPS
Authors: YAYAMA YUKI
Published: April 2011

Zhao and Cao (2008) showed the relative variational principle for subadditive potentials in random dynamical systems. Applying their result, we find the Hausdorff dimension of an n (≥3)-dimensional general Sierpiński carpet which has an irreducible sofic shift in symbolic representation and study an invariant ergodic measure of full Hausdorff dimension. These generalize the results of Kenyon and Peres (1996) on the Hausdorff dimension of an n-dimensional general Sierpiński carpet represented by a full shift.
ABSENCE OF TORSION FOR NK1(R) OVER ASSOCIATIVE RINGS
Authors: BASU RABEYA
Published: April 2011

When R is a commutative ring with identity, and if k ∈ ℕ, with kR = R, then it was shown in [C. Weibel, Mayer–Vietoris Sequence and Module Structure on NK0, Lecture Notes in Mathematics, Vol. 854 (Springer, 1981), pp. 466–498] that SK 1(R[X]) has no k-torsion. We prove this result for any associative ring R with identity in which kR = R.
A NOTE ON GRADED GELFAND–KIRILLOV DIMENSION OF GRADED ALGEBRAS
Authors: CENTRONE LUCIO
Published: April 2011

In this paper, we consider associative P.I. algebras over a field F of characteristic 0, graded by a finite group G. More precisely, we define the G-graded Gelfand–Kirillov dimension of a G-graded P.I. algebra. We find a basis of the relatively free graded algebras of the upper triangular matrices UTn(F) and UTn(E), with entries in F and in the infinite-dimensional Grassmann algebra, respectively. As a consequence, we compute their graded Gelfand–Kirillov dimension with respect to the natural gradings defined over these algebras. We obtain similar results for the upper triangular matrix algebra UTa, b(E) = UTa+b(E)∩Ma, b(E) with respect to its natural ℤa+b × ℤ2-grading. Finally, we compute the ℤn-graded Gelfand–Kirillov dimension of Mn(F) in some particular cases and with different methods.
GALOIS CORRESPONDENCES FOR PARTIAL GALOIS AZUMAYA EXTENSIONS
Authors: PAQUES ANTONIO , RODRIGUES VIRGÍNIA , SANT'ANA ALVERI
Published: April 2011

Let α be a partial action, having globalization, of a finite group G on a unital ring R. Let Rα denote the subring of the α-invariant elements of R and CR(Rα) the centralizer of Rα in R. In this paper we will show that there are one-to-one correspondences among sets of suitable separable subalgebras of R, Rα and CR(Rα). In particular, we extend to the setting of partial group actions similar results due to DeMeyer [Some notes on the general Galois theory of rings, Osaka J. Math.2 (1965) 117–127], and Alfaro and Szeto [On Galois extensions of an Azumaya algebra, Commun. Algebra25 (1997) 1873–1882].
RELATIVE PROJECTIVITY AND RELATIVE INJECTIVITY IN THE CATEGORY OF DOI–HOPF MODULES
Authors: GUÉDÉNON T.
Published: April 2011

Let k be a field, H be a Hopf algebra, A be a right H-comodule algebra and C be a right H-module coalgebra. We extend to the category of (H, A, C)-Doi–Hopf modules a result of Doi on projectivity of every relative (A, H)-Hopf module as an A-module. We also extend the Fundamental Theorem of [C, H]-Hopf modules due to Doi to the category of (H, A, C)-Doi–Hopf modules. Then we discuss relative projectivity and relative injectivity in this category.
COMPLETIONS, REVERSALS, AND DUALITY FOR TROPICAL VARIETIES
Authors: IZHAKIAN ZUR , ROWEN LOUIS
Published: April 2011

The object of this paper is to present two algebraic results with straightforward proofs, which have interesting consequences in tropical geometry. We start with an identity for polynomials over the max-plus algebra, which shows that any polynomial divides a product of binomials. Interpreted in tropical geometry, any tropical variety W can be completed to a union of tropical primitives, i.e. single-face polyhedral complexes. In certain situations, a tropical variety W has a "reversal" variety, which together with W already yields the union of primitives; this phenomenon is explained in terms of a map defined on the algebraic structure, and yields a duality on tropical hypersurfaces.
GROUPS WHOSE PROPER SUBGROUPS ARE GENERALIZED FC-GROUPS
Authors: IMPERATORE D. , RUSSO A. , VINCENZI G.
Published: April 2011

Let 𝔛 be a class of groups. A group G is said to be minimal non-𝔛 if all proper subgroups of G are 𝔛-groups but G itself is not. The aim of this paper is to study the class of minimal non-FCn-groups, where FCn(n is a positive integer) is a class of generalized FC-groups introduced in [F. de Giovanni, A. Russo and G. Vincenzi, Groups with restricted conjugacy classes, Serdica Math. J.28 (2002) 241–254].
NETWORK CODING WITH MODULAR LATTICES
Authors: KENDZIORRA ANDREAS , SCHMIDT STEFAN E.
Published: April 2011

Kötter and Kschischang presented in 2008 a new model for error correcting codes in network coding. The alphabet in this model is the subspace lattice of a given vector space, a code is a subset of this lattice and the used metric on this alphabet is the map d : (U, V) ↦ dim (U+V)- dim (U∩V). In this paper we generalize this model to arbitrary modular lattices, i.e. we consider codes, which are subsets of modular lattices. The used metric in this general case is the map d : (u, v) ↦ h(u ∨ v) - h(u ∧ v), where h is the height function of the lattice. We apply this model to submodule lattices. Moreover, we show a method to compute the size of spheres in certain modular lattices and present a sphere packing bound, a sphere covering bound, and a Singleton bound for codes, which are subsets of modular lattices.
THE v-OPERATION IN EXTENSIONS OF INTEGRAL DOMAINS
Authors: ANDERSON DAVID F. , EL BAGHDADI SAID , ZAFRULLAH MUHAMMAD
Published: April 2011

An extension D ⊆ R of integral domains is strongly t-compatible (respectively, t-compatible) if (IR)-1= (I-1R)v(respectively, (IR)v= (IvR)v) for every nonzero finitely generated fractional ideal I of D. We show that strongly t-compatible implies t-compatible and give examples to show that the converse does not hold. We also indicate situations where strong t-compatibility and its variants show up naturally. In addition, we study integral domains D such that D ⊆ R is strongly t-compatible (respectively, t-compatible) for every overring R of D.
ELECTRON SELF-ENERGY IN PSEUDO-HERMITIAN QUANTUM ELECTRODYNAMICS WITH A MAXIMAL MASS M
Authors: NEZNAMOV V. P.
Published: April 2011

The electron self-energy (self-mass) is calculated on the basis of the model of quantum field theory with maximal mass M, developed by V. G. Kadyshevsky et al. within the pseudo-Hermitian quantum electrodynamics in the second order of the perturbation theory.

In theory, there is the natural cut-off of large transmitted momentum in intermediate states because of presence of the universal mass M. As a result, the electron self-mass is finite and depends on the transmitted maximum momentum [Formula: see text].

Two interpretations of the obtained results are possible at defined M and A.

The first interpretation allows confirming quantitatively the old concept of elementary particle mass sources defined by interaction of particles with self-gauge fields.

The second interpretation results in the possibility not to renormalize the mass (at least in the second order of perturbation theory) owing to the zero mass operator ∑(p).
INNOVATION IN COMMODITIZED SERVICES: A STUDY IN THE PASSENGER AIRLINE INDUSTRY
Authors: ROTHKOPF MAXIMILIAN , WALD ANDREAS
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this study is to analyze how innovation is leveraged in a commoditized service industry. Focusing on the passenger airline industry, we describe the characteristics of commoditized industries and show how the airline industry fulfills these criteria. Based on a sample of 30 airlines, we detect patterns of innovations and explore how airlines utilize innovation in the various categories. We present two case studies to demonstrate different approaches to innovation. Based on these findings, we develop a framework that suggests innovation priorities for different business models. Finally, we propose four levers to expand the core service offering and to successfully position an airline in a commoditized market environment.
A STRATEGIC DECISION FRAMEWORK FOR INNOVATION OUTSOURCING
Authors: CUI ZHIJIAN , LOCH CHRISTOPH
Published: April 2011

This article gives a general decision framework for companies outsourcing strategic decisions. The authors argue that a consistent outsourcing strategy, strategic evaluation and searching of external sources, and effective implementation processes are three essential steps toward successful innovation outsourcing. The article points out that outsourcing strategy is embedded in a company's overall technology strategy, and analyzes the decision context of the sourcing strategy. The new theoretical idea is the portfolio view of outsourcing strategy. The soul of innovation outsourcing should be a mix of different external sources and different levels of integration and a match with the proper organizational structure. Examples of generic portfolios are given at the end of the article.
Dynamic atomic storage without consensus
Authors: Aguilera Marcos K. , Keidar Idit , Malkhi Dahlia , Shraer Alexander
Published: April 2011

This article deals with the emulation of atomic read/write (R/W) storage in
dynamic
asynchronous message passing systems. In static settings, it is well known that atomic R/W storage can be implemented in a fault-tolerant manner even if the system is completely asynchronous, whereas consensus is not solvable. In contrast, all existing emulations of atomic storage in dynamic systems rely on consensus or stronger primitives, leading to a popular belief that dynamic R/W storage is unattainable without consensus.

In this article, we specify the problem of dynamic atomic read/write storage in terms of the interface available to the users of such storage. We discover that, perhaps surprisingly, dynamic R/W storage is solvable in a completely asynchronous system: we present DynaStore, an algorithm that solves this problem. Our result implies that atomic R/W storage is in fact easier than consensus, even in dynamic systems.
Improving resource utilization for compositional scheduling using DPRM interfaces
Authors: Lee Jaewoo , Phan Linh T. X. , Chen Sanjian , Sokolsky Oleg , Lee Insup
Published: April 2011

The paper revisits the generation of interfaces for compositional real-time scheduling. Following an established line of research, we use periodic resource models in component interfaces to describe resource demand of the component. We identify a deficiency of existing interface generation algorithms that may require parameters of the resource model to be infeasibly small. We propose a new algorithm for interface generation that avoids this deficiency. We further demonstrate that resource utilization can be improved by using
dual-periodic resource model
(DPRM) interfaces that employ two periodic resource models to characterize the resource demand more precisely.
Sharing resources among independently-developed systems on multi-cores
Authors: Nemati Farhang , Behnam Moris , Nolte Thomas
Published: April 2011

In this paper we propose a synchronization protocol for resource sharing among independently-developed real-time systems on multi-core platforms. The systems may use different scheduling policies and they may have arbitrary priority settings. When using this synchronization protocol each processor is abstracted by an interface which consists of a set of requirements. A requirement depends only on the worst-case time the processor may wait for resources, i.e., the maximum number of times that the resources can be blocked by other processors. We have derived schedulability conditions for each processor and based on the analysis we extract the interface of the processor. In this paper, we focus on the cases when each system is allocated on a dedicated processor.
Hierarchical server-based traffic scheduling in ethernet switches
Authors: Santos Rui , Pedreiras Paulo , Behnam Moris , Nolte Thomas , Almeida Luis
Published: April 2011

Distributed Embedded Real-Time Systems (DERTS) are ever more complex, consisting of an increasing number of nodes with more functionality and handling more data. This scenario is pushing for paradigm changes in the methodologies to design complex DERTS. Namely, component-oriented design methodologies, exhibiting the composability property are considered an effective means to tackle the growing complexity of DERTS. Server-oriented architectures have proven to be an effective means to enable controlled resource sharing, providing composability among application components as well as between the application software and the hardware platform on which they execute.
A tool for component-based schedulability analysis of distributed real-time pipelines
Authors: Serreli Nicola , Lipari Giuseppe , Bini Enrico
Published: April 2011

In many scenarios, such as in the automotive context [1], [2], the complexity of developing a distributed real-time embedded (DRE) system is reduced by dividing the system into separate components, possibly developed by a different teams or third-party companies. The component-based approach does simplify both the analysis and the integration, although it introduce some waste of resource.
Angiotensin II plays a critical role in diabetic pulmonary fibrosis most likely via activation of NADPH oxidase-mediated nitrosative damage
Authors: Yang Junling , Tan Yi , Zhao Fenglian , Ma Zhongsen , Wang Yuehui , Zheng Shirong , Epstein Paul N. , Yu Jerry , Yin Xia , Zheng Yang , Li Xiaokun , Miao Lining , Cai Lu
Published: April 2011

Diabetic patients have a high risk of pulmonary disorders that are usually associated with restrictive impairment of lung function, suggesting a fibrotic process (van den Borst B, Gosker HR, Zeegers MP, Schols AM. Chest 138: 393–406, 2010; Ehrlich SF, Quesenberry CP Jr, Van Den Eeden SK, Shan J, Ferrara A. Diabetes Care 33: 55–60, 2010). The present study was undertaken to define whether and how diabetes causes lung fibrosis. Lung samples from streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetic mice, spontaneously developed type 1 diabetic OVE26 mice, and their age-matched controls were investigated with histopathological and biochemical analysis. Signaling mechanism was investigated with cultured normal human lung fibroblasts in vitro. In both diabetes models, histological examination with Sirius red and hemotoxylin and eosin stains showed fibrosis along with massive inflammatory cell infiltration. The fibrotic and inflammatory processes were confirmed by real-time PCR and Western blotting assays for the increased fibronectin, CTGF, PAI-1, and TNFα mRNA and protein expressions. Diabetes also significantly increased NADPH oxidase (NOX) expression and protein nitration along with upregulation of angiotensin II (Ang II) and its receptor expression. In cell culture, exposure of lung fibroblasts to Ang II increased CTGF expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner, which could be abolished by inhibition of superoxide, NO, and peroxynitrite accumulation. Furthermore, chronic infusion of Ang II to normal mice at a subpressor dose induced diabetes-like lung fibrosis, and Ang II receptor AT1 blocker (losartan) abolished the lung fibrotic and inflammatory responses in diabetic mice. These results suggest that Ang II plays a critical role in diabetic lung fibrosis, which is most likely caused by NOX activation-mediated nitrosative damage.
Heterogeneous Cardiac Proteasomes: Mandated by Diverse Substrates?
Authors: Scruggs Sarah B. , Ping Peipei , Zong Chenggong
Published: April 2011

Proteasome biology has taken central stage in cardiac physiology and pathophysiology. The molecular heterogeneity of proteasome subpopulations supports the specificity of proteasome function to degrade diverse substrate repertoires. Unveiling the dynamics of proteasome function should inspire new therapeutic strategies for combating cardiac disease.
The Influence of MHC and Immunoglobulins A and E on Host Resistance to Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Sheep
Authors: Lee C. Y. , Munyard K. A. , Gregg K. , Wetherall J. D. , Stear M. J. , Groth D. M.
Published: April 2011

Gastrointestinal nematode parasites in farmed animals are of particular importance due to their effects on production. In Australia, it is estimated that the direct and indirect effects of parasite infestation cost the animal production industries hundreds of millions of dollars each year. The main factors considered by immunologists when studying gastrointestinal nematode infections are the effects the host's response has on the parasite, which immunological components are responsible for these effects, genetic factors involved in controlling immunological responses, and the interactions between these forming an interconnecting multilevel relationship. In this paper, we describe the roles of immunoglobulins, in particular IgA and IgE, and the major histocompatibility complex in resistance to gastrointestinal parasites in sheep. We also draw evidence from other animal models to support the involvement of these immune components. Finally, we examine how IgA and IgE exert their influence and how methods may be developed to manage susceptible animals.
Two Cases of Appendiceal Intussusception: A Rare Diagnostic Pitfall in Colonoscopy
Authors: Seddik Hassan , Rabhi Monsef
Published: April 2011

Partially or completely invaginated appendix mistaken for a polyp during colonoscopy and leading to intussusception is a rare situation. This paper describes our experience with two cases of appendiceal intussusception. In the first case, there was no underlying ileocecal abnormality, and, in the second case, histologic examination of the resected appendix and cecum revealed widespread foci of angiodysplasia, and this was thought to be the basis for the intussusception. The authors present reviews of the literature concerning clinical features and associated conditions and emphasize that failure to recognize this condition may result in unexpected complications such as consequent peritonitis in case of endoscopic removal.
Diagnosis and Management of Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Bamfo Jacqueline E. A. K. , Odibo Anthony O.
Published: April 2011

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) remains a leading contributor to perinatal mortality and morbidity and metabolic syndrome in later life. Recent advances in ultrasound and Doppler have elucidated several mechanisms in the evolution of the disease. However, consistent classification and characterization regarding the severity of FGR is lacking. There is no cure, and management is reliant on a structured antenatal surveillance program with timely intervention. Hitherto, the time to deliver is an enigma. In this paper, the challenges in the diagnosis and management of FGR are discussed. The biophysical profile, Doppler, biochemical and molecular technologies that may refine management are reviewed. Finally, a model pathway for the clinical management of pregnancies complicated by FGR is presented.
Cardiopulmonary Manifestations of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Momeni Mahnaz , Taylor Nora , Tehrani Mahsa
Published: April 2011

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that usually affects young men. Cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary disease are well-known and commonly reported extra-articular manifestation, associated with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). AS has also been reported to be specifically associated with aortitis, aortic valve diseases, conduction disturbances, cardiomyopathy and ischemic heart disease. The pulmonary manifestations of the disease include fibrosis of the upper lobes, interstitial lung disease, ventilatory impairment due to chest wall restriction, sleep apnea, and spontaneous pneumothorax. They are many reports detailing pathophysiology, hypothesized mechanisms leading to these derangements, and estimated prevalence of such findings in the AS populations. At this time, there are no clear guidelines regarding a stepwise approach to screen these patients for cardiovascular and pulmonary complications.
Electron Gas Dynamic Conductivity Tensor on the Nanotube Surface in Magnetic Field
Authors: Ermolaev A. M. , Kofanov S. V. , Rashba G. I.
Published: April 2011

Kubo formula was derived for the electron gas conductivity tensor on the nanotube surface in longitudinal magnetic field considering spatial and time dispersion. Components of the degenerate and nondegenerate electron gas conductivity tensor were calculated. The study has showed that under high electron density, the conductivity undergoes oscillations of de Haas-van Alphen and Aharonov-Bohm types with the density of electrons and magnetic field changes.
Luminal Expression of PIK3CA Mutant H1047R in the Mammary Gland Induces Heterogeneous Tumors
Authors: Meyer Dominique S. , Brinkhaus Heike , Müller Urs , Müller Matthias , Cardiff Robert D. , Bentires-Alj Mohamed
Published: April 2011

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling cascade, a key mediator of cellular survival, growth, and metabolism, is frequently altered in human cancer. Activating mutations in PIK3CA, which encodes the α-catalytic subunit of PI3K, occur in approximately 30% of breast cancers. These mutations result in constitutive activity of the enzyme and are oncogenic, but it is not known whether they are sufficient to induce mammary carcinomas in mice. In the present study, we show that the expression of mutant PIK3CA H1047R in the luminal mammary epithelium evokes heterogeneous tumors that express luminal and basal markers and are positive for the estrogen receptor. Our results suggest that the PIK3CA H1047R oncogene targets a multipotent progenitor cell and, furthermore, show that this model recapitulates features of human breast tumors with PIK3CA H1047R. Cancer Res; 71(13); 4344–51. ©2011 AACR.
A Multicellular Basis for the Origination of Blast Crisis in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Sachs Rainer K. , Johnsson Kerstin , Hahnfeldt Philip , Luo Janet , Chen Allen , Hlatky Lynn
Published: April 2011

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is characterized by a specific chromosome translocation, and its pathobiology is considered comparatively well understood. Thus, quantitative analysis of CML and its progression to blast crisis may help elucidate general mechanisms of carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Hitherto, it has been widely postulated that CML blast crisis originates mainly via cell-autonomous mechanisms such as secondary mutations or genomic instability. However, recent results suggest that carcinogenic transformation may be an inherently multicellular event, in departure from the classic unicellular paradigm. We investigate this possibility in the case of blast crisis origination in CML. A quantitative, mechanistic cell population dynamics model was employed. This model used recent data on imatinib-treated CML; it also used earlier clinical data, not previously incorporated into current mathematical CML/imatinib models. With the pre-imatinib data, which include results on many more blast crises, we obtained evidence that the driving mechanism for blast crisis origination is a cooperation between specific cell types. Assuming leukemic–normal interactions resulted in a statistically significant improvement over assuming either cell-autonomous mechanisms or interactions between leukemic cells. This conclusion was robust with regard to changes in the model's adjustable parameters. Application of the results to patients treated with imatinib suggests that imatinib may act not only on malignant blast precursors, but also, to a limited degree, on the malignant blasts themselves. Cancer Res; 71(8); 2838–47. ©2011 AACR.
Perinatal Care and Outcome of Fetuses with Trisomies 13 and 18 following a Parental Decision Not to Terminate the Pregnancy
Authors: Sibiude Jeanne , Gavard Laurent , Floch-Tudal Corinne , Mandelbrot Laurent
Published: April 2011

Objective: To describe pregnancy outcomes of fetuses affected by trisomies 13 and 18 following prenatal diagnosis and a decision to continue the pregnancy. Material and Methods: A single-center, retrospective study of 34 cases with a diagnosis or strong suspicion of trisomy 13 or 18. Results: Fourteen of 34 (41%) families chose to continue the pregnancy after a diagnosis of trisomy 13 or 18 was made. Nine fetuses subsequently died in utero (IUD). No prenatal signs were predictive of IUD. There were no intrapartum deaths. All 4 live-born babies were delivered vaginally; 2 died immediately after birth in the labor ward whilst 2 were transferred to the neonatal unit, dying at 10 and 11 days, respectively. Discussion: Couples should be counseled that the precise outcome of trisomy 13 or 18 is unpredictable, and they should receive multidisciplinary support.
Maternal Serum Adiponectin at 11–13 Weeks of Gestation in Preeclampsia
Authors: Nanda Surabhi , Yu Christina K.H. , Giurcaneanu Laura , Akolekar Ranjit , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: April 2011

Objective: To determine whether the maternal serum levels of adiponectin in the first trimester of pregnancy are altered in cases that develop preeclampsia (PE) and whether the levels are related to pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and uterine artery pulsatility index (PI). Methods: Serum adiponectin, PAPP-A and uterine artery PI were measured at 11–13 weeks in 90 cases that developed PE, including 30 that required delivery before 34 weeks (early PE) and 300 unaffected controls. The median adiponectin, PAPP-A and uterine artery PI multiple of the unaffected median (MoM) in the outcome groups were compared. Results: In both early PE and late PE, compared to controls, uterine artery PI MoM was increased (1.32 and 1.05 vs. 1.02) and PAPP-A MoM was decreased (0.61 and 0.84 vs. 1.00), whereas adiponectin MoM was increased in early PE but not in late PE (1.32 and 1.05 vs. 1.02). In the PE group, there was no significant association between adiponectin and PAPP-A or uterine artery PI. Serum adiponectin did not improve the performance of screening for PE provided by a combination of the maternal factors, uterine artery PI and serum PAPP-A. Conclusion: Serum adiponectin levels at 11–13 weeks are increased in women that develop early PE by a mechanism unrelated to impaired placentation.
Disorder-Specific Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Separation Anxiety Disorder in Young Children: A Randomized Waiting-List-Controlled Trial
Authors: Schneider Silvia , Blatter-Meunier Judith , Herren Chantal , Adornetto Carmen , In-Albon Tina , Lavallee Kristen
Published: April 2011

Background: Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is one of the earliest and most common mental disorders in childhood, and a strong predictor of adult psychopathology. Despite significant progress in psychotherapy research on childhood anxiety disorders, no randomized controlled trial has been conducted with a disorder-specific treatment program for young children suffering from SAD. Methods: Forty-three children (ages 5–7) with SAD and their parents were assigned to either a 16-session disorder-specific SAD treatment program including parent training and classical cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) components, or to a 12-week waiting list group. Categorical and/or continuous data for anxiety, impairment/distress and quality of life were collected at baseline, after treatment/waiting list condition, and at a 4-week follow-up. Results: Intention-to-treat analyses indicate that 76.19% of children allocated to the treatment group definitively no longer fulfilled DSM-IV criteria for SAD at follow-up, compared to 13.64% in the waiting list group. Between 91 and 100% of children rated themselves or were rated by their father, mother or therapist as very much or much improved on the global success rating immediately after treatment. Results indicated large time by treatment condition interaction effect sizes (d = 0.98–1.41) across informants for reduction of distress/avoidance in separation situations after the test for the treatment condition. Further, parents reported significant improvements in impairment/distress in the child’s major life domains and the child’s quality of life. Treatment gains were maintained at the 4-week follow-up assessment. Conclusions: Results indicate the short-term efficacy of a disorder-specific treatment approach for SAD, and are among the first to indicate that CBT programs work with young children.
Sex Hormones Modulate Salbutamol-Elicited Long-Term Relaxation in Isolated Bovine Tracheal Strips
Authors: Suárez Lorena , Pipa María , Granda Javier , Coto Ana , Bordallo Javier , Cantabrana Begoña , García de Boto María José , Sánchez Manuel
Published: April 2011

Sex hormones are of interest regarding gender differences in the clinical manifestations of airway diseases. No conclusive data are available on the sex hormone modulation of β-adrenoceptor-mediated responses on airways. To this aim, isolated preparations of bovine trachea were used to establish the sex hormone influence on salbutamol-elicited relaxation. This had 2 components, a full acute relaxation followed by a loss of efficacy, close to half of the effect. The remaining half was reverted by the β-blocker, propranolol. The loss of salbutamol-elicited relaxation might reflect the receptor desensitization, as shown by the lack of effect by subsequent administration of salbutamol, and the decrease in the immunostaining of β2-adrenoceptors. Sex hormones differently modified the salbutamol-elicited response. Testosterone, but not other androgens or estradiol, had a synergic effect, facilitating the acute relaxation and decreasing the loss of spasmolytic effect, associated with an increase in the latency of desensitization and a decrease in the time taken to reach long-term steady-state tone. These effects, not modified by the antiandrogen flutamide or epithelium removal, seem to be independent of a modulation of β2-adrenoceptor desensitization. Testosterone also relaxed preparations with desensitized β-adrenoceptor. Therefore, testosterone modulates tracheal smooth muscle tone, facilitating bronchodilation caused by β2-adrenoceptor agonists which might be of pharmacological interest.
Memory Complaints in Chronic Stroke Patients Are Predicted by Memory Self-Efficacy rather than Memory Capacity
Authors: Aben Laurien , Ponds Rudolf W.H.M. , Heijenbrok-Kal Majanka H. , Visser Marieke M. , Busschbach Jan J.V. , Ribbers Gerard M.
Published: April 2011

Background: Memory self-efficacy (MSE) is the belief about one’s mastery of memory functioning. In healthy elderly, memory complaints are related to MSE rather than to objectively measured memory capacity. MSE has scarcely been studied in patients that suffered a stroke. The aim of this study was twofold: (1) to examine whether memory capacity and MSE can predict the presence of memory complaints in stroke patients, and (2) to study which variables are the best predictors of MSE. Methods: In a cross-sectional study, 136 stroke patients (>18 months after onset) were recruited from April 2008 to November 2009. MSE was measured using the Metamemory in Adulthood questionnaire. Depression, coping and personality were measured using validated questionnaires, and memory performance was measured using the Rivermead Behavioural Memory Test (RBMT) and the Auditory Verbal Learning Test (AVLT). Patients were divided into a ‘complaints’ and a ‘no complaints’ group. Results: A lower MSE score was an independent predictor of having memory complaints (adjusted odds ratio: 0.422; p = 0.000), adjusted for age and depression. The RBMT and AVLT scores did not predict the presence of memory complaints (p > 0.263). Presence of memory complaints and depression were the strongest predictors of MSE (B = –1.748, p = 0.000; B = –0.054, p = 0.000), followed by word fluency, not having a partner and side of stroke (B = 0.038, p = 0.012; B = –0.517, p = 0.082; B = –0.479, p = 0.088). Conclusions: Memory complaints are predicted by MSE rather than memory capacity. MSE memory training might be an effective training strategy for reducing memory complaints in selected chronic stroke patients.
A Meta-Analysis of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol, and Apolipoprotein B as Markers of Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Sniderman Allan D. , Williams Ken , Contois John H. , Monroe Howard M. , McQueen Matthew J. , de Graaf Jacqueline , Furberg Curt D.
Published: April 2011

Background—

Whether apolipoprotein B (apoB) or non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) adds to the predictive power of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) for cardiovascular risk remains controversial.

Methods and Results—

This meta-analysis is based on all the published epidemiological studies that contained estimates of the relative risks of non-HDL-C and apoB of fatal or nonfatal ischemic cardiovascular events. Twelve independent reports, including 233 455 subjects and 22 950 events, were analyzed. All published risk estimates were converted to standardized relative risk ratios (RRRs) and analyzed by quantitative meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Whether analyzed individually or in head-to-head comparisons, apoB was the most potent marker of cardiovascular risk (RRR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.35 to 1.51), LDL-C was the least (RRR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.18 to 1.33), and non-HDL-C was intermediate (RRR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.24 to 1.44). The overall comparisons of the within-study differences showed that apoB RRR was 5.7%>non-HDL-C (
P
<0.001) and 12.0%>LDL-C (
P
<0.0001) and that non-HDL-C RRR was 5.0%>LDL-C (
P
=0.017). Only HDL-C accounted for any substantial portion of the variance of the results among the studies. We calculated the number of clinical events prevented by a high-risk treatment regimen of all those >70th percentile of the US adult population using each of the 3 markers. Over a 10-year period, a non-HDL-C strategy would prevent 300 000 more events than an LDL-C strategy, whereas an apoB strategy would prevent 500 000 more events than a non-HDL-C strategy.

Conclusions—

These results further validate the value of apoB in clinical care.
Cell Membrane–Associated Mineralocorticoid Receptors?
Authors: Krug Alexander W. , Pojoga Luminita H. , Williams Gordon H. , Adler Gail K.
Published: April 2011

The purpose of the present article is to provide an overview of plasma membrane steroid hormone receptors and their implications in nongenomic signaling. We especially focus on recent evidence supporting the notion of a possible membrane-associated aldosterone receptor, whether this receptor is different from the classic nuclear receptor, and the possible implications of such a receptor for nongenomic and genomic aldosterone effects in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
Validation of a New Language Screening Tool for Patients With Acute Stroke
Authors: Flamand-Roze Constance , Falissard Bruno , Roze Emmanuel , Maintigneux Lisa , Beziz Jonathan , Chacon Audrey , Join-Lambert Claire , Adams David , Denier Christian
Published: April 2011

Background and Purpose—

Standard aphasia scales such as the Boston Diagnosis Aphasia Evaluation are inappropriate for use in acute stroke. Likewise, global stroke scales do not reliably detect aphasia, and existing brief aphasia screening scales suitable for patients with stroke have several limitations. The objective of this study was to generate and validate a bedside language screening tool, the Language Screening Test, suitable for use in the emergency setting.

Methods—

The Language Screening Test comprises 5 subtests and a total of 15 items. To avoid retest bias, we created 2 parallel versions of the scale. We report the equivalence of the 2 versions, their internal and external validity, and their interrater reliability. We validated the scale by administering it to 300 consecutive patients within 24 hours after admission to our stroke unit and to 104 stabilized patients with and without aphasia using the Boston Diagnosis Aphasia Evaluation as a reference.

Results—

The 2 versions of the Language Screening Test were equivalent with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.96. Internal validity was good; none of the items showed a floor or ceiling effect with no redundancy and good internal consistency (Cronbach α 0.88). External validation against the Boston Diagnosis Aphasia Evaluation showed a sensitivity of 0.98 and a specificity of 1. Interrater agreement was near perfect (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.998). The median time to complete the Language Screening Test was approximately 2 minutes. Importantly, the Language Screening Test does not need to be administered by a speech and language therapist.

Conclusions—

This comprehensively validated language rating scale is simple and rapid, making it a useful tool for bedside evaluation of patients with acute stroke in routine clinical practice.
Performing Exile in Real Time through a French Feminist Framework
Authors: Milanovic Vesna
Published: April 2011

This paper discusses the theoretical, technological and personal processes in which the author engaged as a performance-technology researcher, leading to the creation of the Performance Online in Real Time (PORT) technology toolkit. The paper explains the process of creating a digital performance work and its theoretical framing based on French feminist philosophical and psychoanalytical theories. These enabled the author to establish a model for both a performing and a spectating position in digital performance.
Mannequins and Motorcycles in Vietnam: A Tale of an Evolved Art Video
Authors: Berry Marsha
Published: April 2011

The nexus between art and science has been increasingly recognized as a research area. In this paper the author discuss how she used genetic algorithms for her art practice. She refers to technical aspects only where they are directly relevant to her process. The algorithm simulates drawing by rendering image sequences using a target image such as a photograph. The first rendered image is a random placement of brush strokes. The final image closely resembles the target image. She used the image sequences to create a video work interrogating contemporary Vietnamese icons — mannequins and motorcycles.
Heirs of Yu the Great: Flood Relief in 1740s China
Authors: Dunstan Helen
Published: April 2011

This article presents a case study of the bureaucratic response to devastating floods that struck northern Jiangsu and Anhui provinces in 1746. It is based on the detailed official directives preserved in an anonymous casebook of administrative correspondence. The work offers revealing glimpses into the world of a senior official striving to balance correct bureaucratic procedure with prompt, meticulous attention to the pressing needs of over 800,000 flood victims. The article highlights some noteworthy features of the approach to flood relief reflected in the casebook, thereby complementing previous scholarship on the state's response to drought in the same period and refining our understanding of some points of procedure. The material arguably represents Qing famine-relief efforts at their peak of conscientiousness, on the eve of a long era of decline. Concluding reflections place the study in a larger, cross-cultural framework, identifying possible implications for the diplomacy of human rights in our own day. L'étude de cas présentée dans cet article porte sur la réponse de la bureaucratie aux inondations dévastatrices qui affligèrent les provinces du Jiangsu et du Anhui en 1746. Elle s'appuie sur les directives officielles détaillées conservées dans un recueil anonyme de correspondance administrative. L'ouvrage livre des aperçus révélateurs de l'univers d'un haut fonctionnaire s'efforçant de jongler entre l'application correcte de la réglementation et une attention immédiate et méticuleuse aux besoins urgents de plus de 800 000 victimes d'inondations. L'article met en lumière quelques traits remarquables des méthodes adoptées pour secourir ces dernières, ce qui permet de compléter les travaux antérieurs consacrés à l'action contre la sécheresse pendant ces mêmes années et d'affiner notre compréhension sur certains points de procédure. Les matériaux analysés représentent probablement les efforts pour combattre la famine sous les Qing au maximum de leur efficacité, avant une longue période de déclin. Les remarques de conclusion replacent cette étude dans une perspective interculturelle plus large et suggèrent de possibles implications pour la diplomatie des droits de l'homme aujourd'hui même.
Were there “Inner Chapters” in the Warring States? A New Examination of Evidence about the Zhuangzi
Authors: Klein Esther
Published: April 2011

This article questions the traditional beliefs that the seven “inner chapters” constitute the earliest stratum of the Zhuangzi, that they already formed a coherent unit in the Warring States, and that they came from a single hand. After reviewing what is known about the early history of the Zhuangzi text, various arguments that have been made in support of early, coherent inner chapters, are examined. Taking the Shiji portrait of the Zhuangzi as the starting point, it is shown that Sima Qian's description and use of the Zhuangzi already gives us reason to question the importance, or even existence, of the inner chapters in the Western Han. It is then shown that pre-Han and Han references to Zhuang Zhou, and parallels with the Zhuangzi text, do not necessarily even require (or support) the existence of most inner chapters, and certainly give no evidence that they were coherent and had any kind of canonical status. Though this does not constitute proof, it does give us reason to rethink the traditional beliefs about the authorship and structure of the early Zhuangzi text. In closing, the possibility of a Huainan Zhuangzi, and the role Liu An and his court might have played in the compilation of the inner chapters, is considered. Cet article met en question les conceptions traditionnelles suivant lesquelles les sept “chapitres intérieurs” constituent la strate la plus ancienne du Zhuangzi, formaient déjà un ensemble cohérent à l'époque des Royaumes Combattants, et étaient de la même main. Ce qu'on connaît de l'histoire ancienne du texte du Zhuangzi est passé en revue, puis sont examinés les divers arguments qui ont été avancés en faveur de l'ancienneté et de la cohérence des chapitres intérieurs. Partant du portrait du Zhuangzi dans le Shiji, il est démontré que déjà la description et l'usage du texte par Sima Qian nous invitent à nous poser des questions sur l'importance, voire l'existence, des chapitres intérieurs à l'époque des Han occidentaux. Puis il est constaté que les références à Zhuang Zhou sous les Han et avant, ainsi que les parallèles avec le texte du Zhuangzi, ne supposent pas nécessairement (ni ne confortent) l'existence de la plupart des chapitres intérieurs, et ne suggèrent certainement pas que ceux-ci formaient un ensemble cohérent et avaient un quelconque statut canonique. Si ces faits n'ont pas valeur de preuve, ils invitent à s'interroger sur les conceptions traditionnelles concernant l'auteur et la structure du texte primitif du Zhuangzi. En conclusion sont considérés la possibilité d'un Zhuangzi originaire de Huainan ainsi que le rôle qu'auraient pu jouer Liu An et sa cour dans la compilation des chapitres intérieurs.
The Movement Toward Mysticism in Gustavo Gutiérrez’s Thought: Is This an Open Door to Pentecostal Dialogue?
Authors: Davis Joseph
Published: April 2011

Over the last few years a distinct shift has occurred within the thought of liberation theology’s most famous proponent, Gustavo Gutiérrez. Specifically, Gutiérrez has ventured into mysticism. With this movement a fascinating question can be posed: Does the incorporation of mysticism open up a door for dialogue with Latin America’s other popular theology, Pentecostalism? Conversely, should Pentecostalism reflexively understand itself historically and theologically as a liberating movement of the poor? Placed together, an emphasis on praxis seems to reveal, at minimum, a common starting point. The methodology of the paper incorporates a detailed historical analysis of Gutiérrez’s position on mysticism and moves to the conclusion that the shift in emphasis opens the door, albeit a small crack, to one of the most exciting opportunities to occur within the history of Christianity: the marriage of Pentecostal spirituality with liberating social action.