bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Graph Model for Imperative Computation
Authors: McCusker Guy
Published: June 2010

Scott's graph model is a lambda-algebra based on the observation that continuous endofunctions on the lattice of sets of natural numbers can be represented via their graphs. A graph is a relation mapping finite sets of input values to output values. We consider a similar model based on relations whose input values are finite sequences rather than sets. This alteration means that we are taking into account the order in which observations are made. This new notion of graph gives rise to a model of affine lambda-calculus that admits an interpretation of imperative constructs including variable assignment, dereferencing and allocation. Extending this untyped model, we construct a category that provides a model of typed higher-order imperative computation with an affine type system. An appropriate language of this kind is Reynolds's Syntactic Control of Interference. Our model turns out to be fully abstract for this language. At a concrete level, it is the same as Reddy's object spaces model, which was the first "state-free" model of a higher-order imperative programming language and an important precursor of games models. The graph model can therefore be seen as a universal domain for Reddy's model.
Bifinite Chu Spaces
Authors: Droste Manfred , Zhang Guo-Qiang
Published: June 2010

This paper studies colimits of sequences of finite Chu spaces and their ramifications. Besides generic Chu spaces, we consider extensional and biextensional variants. In the corresponding categories we first characterize the monics and then the existence (or the lack thereof) of the desired colimits. In each case, we provide a characterization of the finite objects in terms of monomorphisms/injections. Bifinite Chu spaces are then expressed with respect to the monics of generic Chu spaces, and universal, homogeneous Chu spaces are shown to exist in this category. Unanticipated results driving this development include the fact that while for generic Chu spaces monics consist of an injective first and a surjective second component, in the extensional and biextensional cases the surjectivity requirement can be dropped. Furthermore, the desired colimits are only guaranteed to exist in the extensional case. Finally, not all finite Chu spaces (considered set-theoretically) are finite objects in their categories. This study opens up opportunities for further investigations into recursively defined Chu spaces, as well as constructive models of linear logic.
On the Sets of Real Numbers Recognized by Finite Automata in Multiple Bases
Authors: Boigelot Bernard , Brusten Julien , Bruyere Veronique
Published: June 2010

This article studies the expressive power of finite automata recognizing sets
of real numbers encoded in positional notation. We consider Muller automata as
well as the restricted class of weak deterministic automata, used as symbolic
set representations in actual applications. In previous work, it has been
established that the sets of numbers that are recognizable by weak
deterministic automata in two bases that do not share the same set of prime
factors are exactly those that are definable in the first order additive theory
of real and integer numbers. This result extends Cobham's theorem, which
characterizes the sets of integer numbers that are recognizable by finite
automata in multiple bases.
In this article, we first generalize this result to multiplicatively
independent bases, which brings it closer to the original statement of Cobham's
theorem. Then, we study the sets of reals recognizable by Muller automata in
two bases. We show with a counterexample that, in this setting, Cobham's
theorem does not generalize to multiplicatively independent bases. Finally, we
prove that the sets of reals that are recognizable by Muller automata in two
bases that do not share the same set of prime factors are exactly those
definable in the first order additive theory of real and integer numbers. These
sets are thus also recognizable by weak deterministic automata. This result
leads to a precise characterization of the sets of real numbers that are
recognizable in multiple bases, and provides a theoretical justification to the
use of weak automata as symbolic representations of sets.
Competition, Risk and Return in the US Grocery Industry
Authors: Corstjens Marcel , Vanderheyden Ludo
Published: June 2010

This paper studies competition and financial market performance of the US grocery sector over a period of almost 50 years (1960-2007), using the Sharpe-Fama-French-Carhart standard performance attribution methodology. Following Hou and Robinson (2006), investors in industries with strong (resp. weak) competitive pressures demand a positive (resp. negative) return premium commensurate with the competitive risk incurred. We examine whether such a Hou-Robinson premium exists in the US grocery sector.We find no statistical evidence of a Hou-Robinson premium for the sector as a whole. The sector thus appears to be correctly priced. When, however, our sample is separated into larger and smaller firms, the portfolio of larger firms exhibits a positive Hou-Robinson premium, while that of smaller firms exhibits a negative premium. This result supports the dual nature of competition in the US grocery sector.Furthermore, when we compare the risk-adjusted average return of the larger retail firms in the grocery portfolio with that of the larger manufacturing firms in the same portfolio, we find no statistically significant difference. The larger manufacturing and retail firms in the grocery supply chain seem to share the same level of competitive risk. However, the portfolio of smaller manufacturing firms does not exhibit the negative premium seen in the portfolio of smaller retail firms, indicating that the latter are able to shield themselves from competitive pressures in a way that their manufacturing counterparts are not.
Thermodynamics of the consolidation of nanoparticles and a macrowparticle
Authors: Lisovsky A.F.
Published: June 2010

The thermodynamic study of the particle consolidation process in a system consisting of nanoparticles, inclusions of macroparticles, and mobile phase (gas, vapor, liquid) has been conducted. The thermodynamic functions describing this process have been derived. The conditions have been established, under which the process of consolidation proceeds to the end; the conditions, under which the process does not take place in terms of thermodynamics; and the conditions, under which only certain phases consolidate. It has been shown that in this system there are diffusion flows of the substance from nanoparticles to the macrophase. The conditions have been defined, under which a nanoparticle or a group of nanoparticles can be in an equilibrium state and maintain the size and shape arbitrarily long.
Influence of rare-earth additives (La, Sm and Dy) on the microstructure and dielectric properties of doped BaTiO3 ceramics
Authors: Paunovic Vesna , Zivkovic Lj. , Mitic V.
Published: June 2010

A series of La/Mn, Sm/Mn and Dy/Mn codoped BaTiO3 samples were prepared by the conventional solid state procedure with dopant concentrations ranging from 0.1 up to 2.0 at%. The specimens were sintered at 1320?C and 1350?C in an air atmosphere for two hours. The low doped samples demonstrated a mainly uniform and homogeneous microstructure with average grain sizes ranging from 0.3 ?m to 5.0 ?m. The appearance of secondary abnormal grains in the fine grain matrix and core-shell structure were observed in highly doped La/BaTiO3 and Dy/BaTiO3 sintered at 1350?C. The low doped samples, sintered at 1350?C, display a high value of dielectric permittivity at room temperature, 6800 for Sm/BaTiO3, 5900 for Dy/BaTiO3 and 3100 for La/BaTiO3. A nearly flat permittivity-response was obtained in specimens with 2.0 at% additive content. Using a modified Curie-Weiss law the Curie-like constant C? and a critical exponent ? were calculated. The obtained values of ? pointed out the diffuse phase transformation in heavily doped BaTiO3 samples.
Sintered materials based on copper and alumina powders synthesized by a novel method
Authors: Korac Marija , Kamberovic Z. , Andjic Z. , Filipovic M. , Tasic M.
Published: June 2010

This paper presents the production of sintered materials from nano-composite powders obtained by a novel synthesis method, which represents a combination of thermochemical synthesis and mechanical alloying. Produced powders were characterized by an average individual particle size of 30nm, with the presence of a small number of aggregates with a size of 150nm. The positive effect on dispersion strengthening of the copper matrix occurred up to 1 wt.% Al2O3, whereas a further increase of the Al2O3 content showed a negative effect on hardness. The new synthesis method is more suiTab. for composite materials containing maximum 1wt.% Al2O3. By this novel method it is possible to produce composites possessing a good combination of hardness and electrical conductivity.
Unexpected Acceleration of Type 1 Diabetes by Transgenic Expression of B7-H1 in NOD Mouse Peri-Islet Glia
Authors: Yantha Jason , Tsui Hubert , Winer Shawn , Song Aihua , Wu Ping , Paltser Geoff , Ellis James , Dosch H.-Michael
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

Autoimmune target tissues in type 1 diabetes include pancreatic β-cells and peri-islet Schwann cells (pSC)—the latter active participants or passive bystanders in pre-diabetic autoimmune progression. To distinguish between these alternatives, we sought to suppress pSC autoimmunity by transgenic expression of the negative costimulatory molecule B7-H1 in NOD pSC.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A B7-H1 transgene was placed under control of the glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) promoter. Transgenic and wild-type NOD mice were compared for transgene PD-1 affinities, diabetes development, insulitis, and pSC survival. Mechanistic studies included adoptive type 1 diabetes transfer, B7-H1 blockade, and T-cell autoreactivity and sublineage distribution.

RESULTS

Transgenic and endogenous B7-H1 bound PD-1 with equal affinities. Unexpectedly, the transgene generated islet-selective CD8+ bias with accelerated rather than suppressed diabetes progression. T-cells of diabetic transgenics transferred type 1 diabetes faster. There were no earlier pSC losses due to conceivable transgene toxicity, but transgenic pSC loss was enhanced by 8 weeks, preceded by elevated GFAP autoreactivity, with high-affinity T-cells targeting the major NOD Kd-GFAP epitope, p253–261. FoxP3+ regulatory T- and CD11c+ dendritic cell pools were unaffected.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast with transgenic B7-H1 in NOD mouse β-cells, transgenic B7-H1 in pSC promotes rather than protects from type 1 diabetes. Here, ectopic B7-H1 enhanced the pathogenicity of effector T-cells, demonstrating that pSC can actively impact diabetes progression—likely through modification of intraislet T-cell selection. Although pSC cells emerge as a new candidate for therapeutic targets, caution is warranted with regard to the B7-H1–PD1 axis, where B7-H1 overexpression can lead to accelerated autoimmune disease.
Increased β-Cell Mass by Islet Transplantation and PLAG1 Overexpression Causes Hyperinsulinemic Normoglycemia and Hepatic Insulin Resistance in Mice
Authors: Declercq Jeroen , Kumar Anujith , Van Diepen Janna A. , Vroegrijk Irene O.C.M. , Gysemans Conny , Di Pietro Caterina , Voshol Peter J. , Mathieu Chantal , Ectors Nadine , Van de Ven Wim J.M. , Verfaillie Catherine M.
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

It is believed that an organism remains normoglycemic despite an increase in the β-cell mass because of decreased insulin production by β-cells on a per-cell basis. However, some transgenic mouse models with β-cell hyperplasia suggest that insulin production remains excessive and that normoglycemia is maintained by insulin resistance.

METHODS

Here, we investigated the effect of an increased β-cell mass on glycemia and insulin resistance by grafting excess normal islets in normoglycemic mice, as well as using targeted PLAG1 expression in β-cells, which leads to β-cell expansion.

RESULTS

In both models, fasting plasma insulin levels were increased, even though animals were normoglycemic. After an intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test, plasma insulin levels increased, which was associated with improved glucose clearing. Under these conditions, normoglycemia is maintained by hepatic insulin resistance as demonstrated by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we demonstrate that when excess β-cells are grafted, insulin production on a per β-cell basis is not sufficiently decreased, leading to hyperinsulinemia and hepatic insulin resistance. This observation might be important for the design of stem cell-based islet replacement therapies.
Control of Adipose Tissue Inflammation Through TRB1
Authors: Ostertag Anke , Jones Allan , Rose Adam J. , Liebert Maria , Kleinsorg Stefan , Reimann Anja , Vegiopoulos Alexandros , Diaz Mauricio Berriel , Strzoda Daniela , Yamamoto Masahiro , Satoh Takashi , Akira Shizuo , Herzig Stephan
Published: June 2010

OBJECTIVE

Based on its role as an energy storage compartment and endocrine organ, white adipose tissue (WAT) fulfills a critical function in the maintenance of whole-body energy homeostasis. Indeed, WAT dysfunction is connected to obesity-related type 2 diabetes triggered at least partly by an inflammatory response in adipocytes. The pseudokinase tribbles (TRB) 3 has been identified by us and others as a critical regulator of hepatic glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes and WAT lipid homeostasis. Therefore, this study aimed to test the hypothesis that the TRB gene family fulfills broader functions in the integration of metabolic and inflammatory pathways in various tissues.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

To determine the role of TRB family members for WAT function, we profiled the expression patterns of TRB13 under healthy and metabolic stress conditions. The differentially expressed TRB1 was functionally characterized in loss-of-function animal and primary adipocyte models.

RESULTS

Here, we show that the expression of TRB1 was specifically upregulated during acute and chronic inflammation in WAT of mice. Deficiency of TRB1 was found to impair cytokine gene expression in white adipocytes and to protect against high-fat diet–induced obesity. In adipocytes, TRB1 served as a nuclear transcriptional coactivator for the nuclear factor κB subunit RelA, thereby promoting the induction of proinflammatory cytokines in these cells.

CONCLUSIONS

As inflammation is typically seen in sepsis, insulin resistance, and obesity-related type 2 diabetes, the dual role of TRB1 as both a target and a (co) activator of inflammatory signaling might provide a molecular rationale for the amplification of proinflammatory responses in WAT in these subjects.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule in Wilms Tumors, Nephrogenic Rests, and Fetal and Postnatal Renal Cortices
Authors: Kapur Payal , Rakheja Dinesh
Published: June 2010

Neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) has been suggested to be a marker for stem cells and progenitor cells in human fetal kidney and Wilms tumors. In this tissue microarray-based immunohistochemical study, we confirmed the expression of NCAM in Wilms tumors, nephrogenic rests, and metanephric mesenchyme and its early derivatives in fetal renal cortex. Neural cell adhesion molecule expression was noted in both favorable-histology and unfavorable-histology Wilms tumors. This indicates that NCAM may be an attractive therapeutic target in chemoresistant, high-risk Wilms tumors. In addition, we saw rare NCAM-positive interstitial stromal cells in postnatal kidney. It is not known if these persistent NCAM-positive interstitial cells might give rise to adult Wilms tumors and cases of pediatric Wilms tumors not associated with nephrogenic rests.
Optimalized transient transfection of chondrogenic primary cell cultures
Authors: Juhász Tamás , Matta Csaba , Mészár Zoltán , Nagy Georgina , Szíjgyártó Zsolt , Molnár Zsanett , Kolozsvári Bernadett , Bakó Éva , Zákány Róza
Published: June 2010

We aimed to find a transfection method which provides high efficiency with minimal cytotoxic and/or apoptotic effects for gene transfer into multilayer primary chondrogenic cell cultures. The pEGFP-C1 plasmid was introduced into the cell culture and the efficiency of transformation quantified by GFP fluorescence; the resulting nucleofection was effective but resulted in severe apoptosis. Two liposomal reagents designed to allow transfection into adherent cells did not deliver the plasmids sufficiently and cartilage formation did not occur. In addition, a third liposomal compound, recommended for transfection into either adherent or suspension cell cultures, lead to acceptable transfection efficiency but no cartilage formation. When an amphiphilic reagent was used however, there was acceptable transfection efficiency as well as cartilage formation. The viability of the cells which were transfected using the amphiphilic reagent remained unaffected but proliferation was severely diminished, particularly in the presence of GFP. In addition, the amount of cartilage decreased when GFP was expressed, despite unchanged levels of mRNAs of sox9 and aggrecan core protein, factors reflecting on the efficiency of chondrogenesis. Overexpression of both the constitutively active delta and gamma isoforms of catalytic subunit of calcineurin, a protein phosphatase described as a positive regulator of chondrogenesis, decreased protein level of Sox9 and subsequent cartilage formation. In conclusion, we found that amphiphilic reagent applied prior to the adhesion of cells provides a useful means to transfer plasmids to primary differentiating chondrogenic cells.
Integrin receptors play a role in the internalin B-dependent entry of Listeria monocytogenes into host cells
Authors: Auriemma Clementina , Viscardi Maurizio , Tafuri Simona , Pavone Luigi , Capuano Federico , Rinaldi Laura , Morte Rossella , Iovane Giuseppe , Staiano Norma
Published: June 2010

Listeria monocytogenes enters non-phagocytic cells by binding its surface proteins inlA (internalin) and inlB to the host’s E-cadherin and Met, respectively. The two internalins play either separate or cooperative roles in the colonization of infected tissues. Here, we studied bacterial uptake into HeLa cells using an L. monocytogenes mutant strain (ΔinlA) carrying a deletion in the gene coding for inlA. The ΔinlA mutant strain showed the capability to invade HeLa cells. The monoclonal anti-β3- and anti-β1-integrin subunit antibodies prevented bacterial uptake into the cells, while the anti-β2- and anti-β4-integrin subunit antibodies failed to affect L. monocytogenes entry into HeLa cells. Three structurally distinct disintegrins (kistrin, echistatin and flavoridin) also inhibited bacterial uptake, showing different potencies correlated to their selective affinity for the β3- and β1-integrin subunits. In addition to inducing Met phosphorylation, infection of cells by the L. monocytogenes ΔinlA mutant strain promoted the tyrosine phosphorylation of the focal adhesion-associated proteins FAK and paxillin. Our findings provide the first evidence that β3- and β1-integrin receptors play a role in the inlB-dependent internalization of L. monocytogenes into host cells.
Asymmetric synthesis of machilin C and its analogue
Authors: Xia Yamu , Wang Wei
Published: June 2010

Full details of the asymmetric total synthesis of erythro-8-O-4′-neolignan, machilin C, and its analogue perseal A are reported. The synthesis was involved in the Sharpless dihydroxylation reaction that occurred with excellent asymmetric induction, and the Mitsunobu reaction which occurred with inversion of the absolute configuration from the threo to the erythro isomer. The synthesis was achieved from simple vanillin in eight to twelve steps.
Morphological characteristics of modified freeze-dried poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) microspheres studied by optical microscopy, SEM, and DLS
Authors: Musial Witold , Vincent Brian , Szumny Antoni , Voncina Bojana
Published: June 2010

Influence of the initiator and additional hydrophobic copolymer on the morphology of thermosensitive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pNIPAM) microspheres, and their presumed application for the stabilization of biologically active molecules were evaluated in this study. Three different types of pNIPAM were synthesized, applying various components: PN1 is a polymer with terminal anionic groups resulting from potassium persulfate initiator; PN2 was synthesized with a 2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionamidine) dihydrochloride initiator introducing cationic amidine terminal groups; in the PN3 polymer, anionic terminals were implemented, however, increased hydrophobicity was maintained using N-tert-butyl functional groups. Turbidity measurements of the obtained dispersions confirmed specific thermosensitivity of synthesized microspheres in the range of 32–33°C. The polymerization course was proved by infrared spectroscopy and 1H NMR assessments, whereas the size of the synthesized microspheres, expressed as planar area, was evaluated by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM). The respective surface patterns of the freeze-dried microspheres were evaluated by SEM. Planar area of the synthesized macromolecules was in the range between 0.41–3.22 μm, depending on the substrates composition and the method applied for the measurements. The assessments performed in the dry stage gave higher values of the diameter and planar area of the observed microspheres. The measured diameter and planar area increased in the following order for the PN3 microspheres: DLS, OM, SEM. In the case of PN1 and PN2, the observed diameters were positioned as: DLS, SEM, OM. These differences were assigned both to varied intramolecular hydrophobic-hydrophilic interactions of the polymer chains and to the environment, i.e. low pressure in the SEM conditions and aqueous solvent in the DLS measurements. The observed gaps in the freeze-dried PN2 polymer resulted in an attempt to evaluate the application of this polymer for mechanical stabilization of certain macromolecules or nanocrystals in the size range between 10 nm and 20 nm.
Origins of ambiguity in the inversion of remote sensing reflectance signals by spectral matching in optically complex shelf seas
Authors: Creanor Danielle , Cunningham Alex
Published: June 2010

The reported occurrence of multiple solutions in the inversion of remote sensing reflectance,Rrs, signals is of considerable significance for attempts to recover the concentrations of optically significant materials (OSMs) in shelf seas. The severity of this problem was assessed by quantifying the number of matches between individual multi wavelength remote sensing “observations” and the entries in a pre-computed look-up table (LUT) spanning the range of possible observations. As a simplifying step, radiative transfer modeling was used to confirm the existence of a linear relationship betweenRrsin the visible wavebands and the ratio of the backscattering to absorption coefficients,bb/aover the full range ofOSMconcentrations likely to be found in shelf seas. This meant that anLUTof appropriate size and resolution could be constructed frombb/avectors rather thanRrsspectra, with a considerable saving of computational effort. The number of matches in theLUTwas then determined as a function of the degree of noise present in the observation and the strictness of the matching criterion (a simple least-squares fitting routine). Perfect matching for the six visible wavebands of the SeaWiFs satellite radiometer was achieved only when the “observed”bb/avector was represented exactly in the library. The introduction of noise representing observational errors rapidly led to multiple matches, as did relaxation of the matching criterion. As an example of the sensitivity ofOSMrecovery to errors of observation, it was found that an average error of 0.1%, statistically distributed across all wavebands, led to an average recovery error of 6.4% in CHL for 3000 randomly selected observations.
Scanning deflectometric form measurement avoiding path-dependent angle measurement errors
Authors: Schulz Michael , Ehret Gerd , Fitzenreiter Arne
Published: June 2010

For the highly accurate topography measurement of nearly flat optical surfaces, scanning deflectometric methods are capable of achieving nanometer accuracy. In these systems, an autocollimator is typically used as the deflectometric sensor and a pentaprism is applied for the scanning process. When ultimate accuracy is desired, a drawback of these systems is that the autocollimator output signal often depends slightly on the optical path length, resulting in topography errors during scanning. Here, we present a new deflectometric method which separates the angle measurement from the scanning process and, thereby, avoids possible errors due to different optical path lengths. In contrast to conventional deflectometry, the new technique achieves an almost exact autocollimation by appropriately tilting the specimen during scanning. The tilt angle necessary to achieve autocollimation complies with the deflectometric angle determined in conventional deflectometry. The tilt angle is measured with an additional autocollimator at a fixed distance without errors due to different optical path lengths. The separation of angle measurement and the scanning process enable both tasks to be optimized independently. This opens up new possibilities of reducing lateral resolution by facilitating smaller apertures and of assessing topographies with larger curvatures. The concept was tested successfully by a demonstrator setup. The first measurements on a test specimen agree with results obtained with the established Extended Shear Angle Difference (ESAD) technique at the one nanometer level.
Reduced renal function after preeclampsia does not result from accelerated age‐dependent renal function loss
Authors: Spaan Julia J. , Ekhart Timo , Spaanderman Marc E.A. , Peeters Louis L.H.
Published: June 2010

Preeclampsia is associated with later kidney disease. This study tested the hypothesis that the normal decline in renal function with age is more rapid in formerly preeclamptic women than in controls. Four groups were compared cross‐sectionally: young women with a history of preeclampsia (n = 34), young controls (n = 12), middle‐aged women with a history of preeclampsia (n = 22) and middle‐aged controls (n = 29). We measured blood pressure (semi‐automatic device), effective renal plasma flow (ERPF, para‐aminohippurate clearance), glomerular filtration rate (GFR, creatinine clearance) and cardiac output (Doppler echocardiography). ERPF was lower in both young and middle‐aged women with a history of preeclampsia relative to controls. The decrease in both GFR and ERPF with age was comparable in both groups. In conclusion, the lower renal function in middle‐aged formerly preeclamptic women does not result from accelerated age‐dependent renal function loss, but from an already reduced renal function relative to parous controls at young age.
Menstruation‐related spontaneous pneumothorax and diaphragmatic endometriosis
Authors: Härkki Päivi , Jokinen Janne J. , Salo Jarmo A. , Sihvo Eero
Published: June 2010

Menstruation‐related spontaneous pneumothorax (MSP), also termed catamenial pneumothorax, is a syndrome of spontaneous pneumothorax during menstruation due to endometriotic lesions in the diaphragm and thoracic cavity. Previously MSP was considered rare, and to cause only 3–6% of all spontaneous pneumothoraces in otherwise healthy women. Current data suggest that the incidence is substantially higher and MSP might be the reason for spontaneous pneumothoraces in up to 25–33% of all cases in women of reproductive age. The typical characteristics are a high recurrence rate and diaphragmatic spread of endometriotic lesions. We report six patients who had been diagnosed to have diaphragmatic endometriosis and four of them had developed MSP. Optimal management requires flexible collaboration between thoracic surgeons and gynecologists. Although treatment is primarily surgical, long‐lasting and successful management requires that amenorrhea is induced with hormonal therapy, either by continuous contraceptives, progestins, the levonorgestrel‐releasing intrauterine device or GnRH‐agonists.
Creating a Consolidated Online Catalogue for the University Press Community
Authors: Esposito Joseph J.
Published: June 2010

This essay derives from a feasibility study into the possibility of creating a consolidated online catalogue for university presses and was underwritten by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and sponsored by The Monterey Institute for Technology and Education; the essay is an abridgement of the report submitted to Mellon and MITE. For more information on the background, see the acknowledgments and disclosures at the end of this paper.

The aim of this study was to identify a means by which university presses could sell more books and, specifically, whether the creation of a consolidated online catalogue of press titles would help in this regard. The presses at this time vary considerably in terms of size, resources, and familiarity with online marketing, though all of them are active to some degree online and most identify Amazon as their largest customer. Despite this activity, however, and even for the very largest presses, a press-wide catalogue would augment sales by exploiting greater scale, enabling more effective search-engine and other online marketing, by opening up new promotional vehicles, and by strengthening individual press brands by bringing more robust technology to each institution's efforts.
Scholar as E-Publisher
Authors: Gould Thomas H.P.
Published: June 2010

The advent of online journals has opened a vast opportunity for small journals published by a variety of institutions. It also has given scholars many more options, from more general publications to far more journals addressing very narrowly defined subjects, and it suggests that in the near future the role of online journals and peer review will radically change. The author proposes roles for user-generated content and university libraries in the evaluation and publication of research.
The Promise and Perils of Inter-Religious Education
Authors: Boys Mary C.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:

History reveals that inter-religious dialogue does not come naturally. Yet it is so crucial to creating a peaceful world. If inter-religious dialogue is to flourish, then participants must be educated for it. At its best, inter-religious education involves an experience of “thin places” that arises from exploring ultimate truths in the presence of the religious other. It also requires the development of “thick religiosity,” that is, knowledge of sacred texts and the play of interpretations; commitment to the communal and transformative character of religion; awareness of the historical and cultural contexts in which the tradition originated and developed; sensitivity to the rich panoply of folk traditions, rituals, art, music, and devotions in which religion has been celebrated and communicated; and attentiveness to the contemplative dimension of life. Thick religiosity, in other words, is a “textured particularism” that forms persons in a religious identity that is simultaneously rooted and adaptive, assured and ambiguous—that is, an identity strong and supple enough to contribute to a responsible pluralism. Conversation between religious others with a thick religiosity is the threshold to thin places.
Calling Forth More Witnesses: Claiming the Voices of Preachers Silenced by History
Authors: Sancken Joni S.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:

Examples of preaching by women are relatively rare until the modern era. This issue is compounded by some restrictive aspects of present definitions that delineate a sermon from other forms of spoken discourse by limiting the act of preaching to the context of a worship service, spoken by one who is authorized by the Church. Expanding definitions of preaching to include spoken addresses by spiritually qualified individuals in other contexts would generate more potential sermons by women. “M.G.,” a nineteenth-century British woman known only by her initials, serves as a test case. Her work, Women like Ourselves, survives in print but was originally a series of short addresses given for mothers' meetings or other women's gatherings. M.G. was qualified to speak to other women within the boundaries of traditional women's roles of the Victorian era, as women were viewed as having special spiritual and moral qualities that allowed them to be spiritual leaders in the home and private sphere. In addition to being rhetorically and organizationally similar to sermons from the late nineteenth century, M.G.'s addresses also display “feminine qualities” and address women's experience, which represent patterns noted in women's preaching. This article introduces a more inclusive definition of preaching and explores M.G.'s addresses as sermons, which opens the possibility of finding more women preachers from throughout history, empowering women today and acknowledging the important work women were doing for the Church within their own sphere of influence.
Doctrines and Undecidability: Kierkegaard on the Indeterminacy of Christian Teachings
Authors: Barrett Lee
Published: June 2010

Abstract:

Many expositors of Kierkegaard have argued that the elusiveness of his language precludes the determinacy of meaning that Christian doctrines require. However, this misunderstands the way that doctrinal motifs function in his literature. Kierkegaard typically affirms two apparently contradictory doctrinal themes without theoretically synthesizing them. For example, he both ascribes absolute agency to God in the matter of salvation and also urges his readers to assume responsibility for their own salvation. Rather than the relation of divine and human agencies, Kierkegaard exhibits in his writings that the assumption of responsibility for oneself and absolute reliance upon God can both inform a single life. Such dialectically paired doctrines cannot possibly provide any closure of meaning. The tensions among them make it impossible to definitively map out their interconnections in an abstract system. The Christian life, informed by doctrinal teachings, is open ended and fraught with risk.
Schellenberg's Newman Lecture on Contemporary Philosophy of Religion: Responses and Reply
Authors: CLAYTON PHILIP , WIEBE DONALD , SWEET WILLIAM , Schellenberg J.L.
Published: June 2010

Abstract:

In issue 25/1 (2009), the Toronto Journal of Theology invited readers to submit responses to John L. Schellenberg, “The Philosophy of Religion: State of the Subject Report.” It is the Jay Newman inaugural address delivered at the Canadian Theological Society in June 2009. Below are three responses and a reply.
A Different Tenor: Glimpses and Critical Reflections
Authors: Mouw Richard J. , Demson David , Farris James , Laporte Jean-Marc , Mikloshazy A. , Irwin William , Hurd John C. , Stackhouse Reginald
Published: June 2010

Abstract:

On October 19, 2009, the Toronto School of Theology marked its fortieth anniversary with a luncheon. Reflecting on the speeches at the occasion, the Toronto Journal of Theology extended in a challenging and amicable way an invitation to provide more information on how exactly each of the founding member colleges entered into the collaborative endeavour known simply as tst. Brochures and website information on tst are general and sparse in details on its founding and development. By extending the invitation, we wanted each college to tells its story of how it became part of tst, who would have been the primary player(s) in the member institution, and what were the influences and challenges that added to the impetus in forging the arrangement we have today. From each college we invited a senior faculty member who would have had a hand in the move or was in some other way closely connected to or knowledgeable about it. An outsider's critical-evaluative overview of tst would not only be truly a view from a distance, but would obviate having to identify the first among equals in the arrangement, and well suited as a contribution in the set of narratives. With that in mind, we also invited Professor Richard J. Mouw to ponder tst at forty—whither and why?
Factors involved in maintaining prolonged functional independence following supratentorial glioblastoma resection
Authors: Chaichana Kaisorn L. , Halthore Aditya N. , Parker Scott L. , Olivi Alessandro , Weingart Jon D. , Brem Henry , Quinones-Hinojosa Alfredo
Published: June 2010

Object

The median survival duration for patients with glioblastoma is approximately 12 months. Maximizing quality of life (QOL) for patients with glioblastoma is a priority. An important, yet understudied, QOL component is functional independence. The aims of this study were to evaluate functional outcomes over time for patients with glioblastoma, as well as identify factors associated with prolonged functional independence.

Methods

All patients who underwent first-time resection of either a primary (de novo) or secondary (prior lower grade glioma) glioblastoma at a single institution from 1996 to 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with a Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) score ≥ 80 were included. Kaplan-Meier, log-rank, and multivariate proportional hazards regression analyses were used to identify associations (p < 0.05) with functional independence (KPS score ≥ 60) following glioblastoma resection.

Results

The median follow-up duration time was 10 months (interquartile range [IQR] 5.6–17.0 months). A patient's preoperative (p = 0.02) and immediate postoperative (within 2 months) functional status was associated with prolonged survival (p < 0.0001). Of the 544 patients in this series, 302 (56%) lost their functional independence at a median of 10 months (IQR 6–16 months). Factors independently associated with prolonged functional independence were: preoperative KPS score ≥ 90 (p = 0.004), preoperative seizures (p = 0.002), primary glioblastoma (p < 0.0001), gross-total resection (p < 0.0001), and temozolomide chemotherapy (p < 0.0001). Factors independently associated with decreased functional independence were: older age (p < 0.0001), coexistent coronary artery disease (p = 0.009), and incurring a new postoperative motor deficit (p = 0.009). Furthermore, a decline in functional status was independently associated with tumor recurrence (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The identification and consideration of these factors associated with prolonged functional outcome (preoperative KPS score ≥ 90, seizures, primary glioblastoma, gross-total resection, temozolomide) and decreased functional outcome (older age, coronary artery disease, new postoperative motor deficit) may help guide treatment strategies aimed at improving QOL for patients with glioblastoma.
Outcome predictors of Gamma Knife surgery for melanoma brain metastases
Authors: Liew Donald N. , Kano Hideyuki , Kondziolka Douglas , Mathieu David , Niranjan Ajay , Flickinger John C. , Kirkwood John M. , Tarhini Ahmad , Moschos Stergios , Lunsford L. Dade
Published: June 2010

Object

To evaluate the role of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in the management of brain metastases from melanoma, the authors assessed clinical outcomes and prognostic factors for survival and tumor control.

Methods

The authors reviewed 333 consecutive patients with melanoma who underwent SRS for 1570 brain metastases from cutaneous and mucosal/acral melanoma. The patient population consisted of 109 female and 224 male patients with a median age of 53 years. Two hundred eleven patients (63%) had multiple metastases. One hundred eighteen patients (35%) underwent whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT). The target volume ranged from 0.1 cm3 to 37.2 cm3. The median marginal dose was 18 Gy.

Results

Actuarial survival rates were 70% at 3 months, 47% at 6 months, 25% at 12 months, and 10% at 24 months after radiosurgery. Factors associated with longer survival included controlled extracranial disease, better Karnofsky Performance Scale score, fewer brain metastases, no prior WBRT, no prior chemotherapy, administration of immunotherapy, and no intratumoral hemorrhage before radiosurgery. The median survival for patients with a solitary brain metastasis, controlled extracranial disease, and administration of immunotherapy after radiosurgery was 22 months. Sustained local tumor control was achieved in 73% of the patients. Sixty-four (25%) of 259 patients who had follow-up imaging after SRS had evidence of delayed intratumoral hemorrhage. Sixteen patients underwent a craniotomy due to intratumoral hemorrhage. Seventeen patients (6%) had asymptomatic and 21 patients (7%) had symptomatic radiation effects. Patients with ≤ 8 brain metastases, no prior WBRT, and the recursive partitioning analysis Class I had extended survivals (median 54.3 months).

Conclusions

Stereotactic radiosurgery is an especially valuable option for patients with controlled systemic disease even if they have multiple metastatic brain tumors.
Weight of the Human Thyroid Gland  A Postmortem Study
Authors: Nurunnabi ASM , Alim A , Sabiha M , Manowara B , Monira K , Shamim A
Published: June 2010

Context: A cross-sectional study was designed to find out the difference in weight of the thyroid gland of Bangladeshi people in relation to age and sex and to compare with previous local and foreign studies. Materials & Methods: The present study was performed on 60 post mortem human thyroid gland (39 of male and 21 of female) collected from unclaimed dead bodies which were in the morgue under examination in the Department of Forensic Medicine, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka. The samples were divided into three age-groups including Group A (10-20 years), Group B (21-50 years) & Group C (>50 years) and the weight of the thyroid glands were measured and recorded. Results: The mean weight of the thyroid gland in male was 15.14 gm, 19.20 gm and 14.64 gm and in female was 16.02 gm, 19.03 gm and 14.67 gm in group A, B and C respectively. The mean weight of the thyroid gland was 15.48 gm in group A, 19.15 gm in group B and 14.65 gm in group C. There was no difference in mean weight of the thyroid gland between male and female. The difference in mean weight of the thyroid gland between group A & group B and group B & group C were found statistically significant. The weight of the gland was found to increase from early childhood and puberty up to 50 years of age and then decrease. Key words: Thyroid gland; Weight of thyroid gland. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i1.5230 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.1 Jan 2010 44-48
Juvenile Ossifying Fibroma of the Maxilla: A Case Report
Authors: Syarifah NTH , Roselinda AR , Irfan M
Published: June 2010

Juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF) is an uncommon, benign, bone-forming neoplasm with aggressive local growth that is distinguished from other fibro-osseous lesions primarily by its age of onset, clinical presentation and potential behaviour. We reported a 10 year old girl presenting with a growth in the left upper buccal gingiva which later was diagnosed as juvenile ossifying fibroma. The nature of the disease and outline of management were discussed. Keywords: Ossifying fibroma; Juvenile; Maxilla. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i1.5231 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.1 Jan 2010 49-52
Fish Bone Piercing Epiglottis: A Case Report
Authors: Fariza NH Nik , Irfan M , Ramiza RR
Published: June 2010

Pharyngoesophageal fish bone is a commonly encountered ORL emergency. Usually the patient is able to point the most painful site to suggest location of the foreign body, immediately after ingestion. We report a patient with chronic, severe odynophagia which later on was found to have a fish bone piercing through epiglottis. The symptoms were present for more than 10 months before definite diagnosis was made and removal was done. Keywords: Foreign body; Fish bone; Epiglottis. DOI: 10.3329/bjms.v9i1.5232 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.09 No.1 Jan 2010 53-55
Glycated Haemoglobin in Diabetic Women with and without HIV Infection: Data from the Women's Interagency HIV Study
Authors: Glesby Marshall J , Hoover Donald R , Shi Qiuhu , Danoff Ann , Howard Andrea , Tien Phyllis , Merenstein Dan , Cohen Mardge , Golub Elizabeth , DeHovitz Jack , Nowicki Marek , Anastos Kathryn
Published: June 2010

Background

Limited data suggest that glycated haemoglobin (haemoglobin A1c; A1C) values might not reflect glycaemic control accurately in HIV-infected individuals with diabetes.

Methods

We evaluated repeated measures of paired fasting glucose and A1C values in 315 HIV-infected and 109 HIV-uninfected diabetic participants in the Women's Interagency HIV Study. Generalized estimating equations used log A1C as the outcome variable, with adjustment for log fasting glucose concentration in all models.

Results

An HIV-infected woman on average had 0.9868 times as much A1C (that is, 1.32% lower; 95% confidence interval 0.9734–0.9904) as an HIV-uninfected woman with the same log fasting glucose concentration. In multivariate analyses, HIV serostatus was not associated, but White, other non-Black race, and higher red blood cell mean corpuscular volume (MCV) were statistically associated with lower A1C values. Use of diabetic medication was associated with higher A1C values. In multivariate analyses restricted to HIV-infected women, White and other race, higher MCV, and HCV viraemia were associated with lower A1C values, whereas older age, use of diabetic medications and higher CD4+ T-cell count were associated with higher A1C values. Use of combination antiretroviral therapy, protease inhibitors, zidovudine, stavudine or abacavir was not associated with A1C values.

Conclusions

A1C values were modestly lower in HIV-infected diabetic women relative to HIV-uninfected diabetic women after adjustment for fasting glucose concentration. The difference was abrogated by adjustment for MCV, race and diabetic medication use. Our data suggest that in clinical practice A1C gives a reasonably accurate refection of glycaemic control in HIV-infected diabetic women.
Redefining Web Users' Optimal Flow Experiences in Online Environments
Authors: Arora Anshu Saxena , Raisinghani Mahesh S.
Published: June 2010

The article highlights a research study on consumer navigation behavior through the Web users’ optimal Flow experiences in the online environments. The research study establishes the empirical groundwork for measuring Web users’ Flow experiences in the Web environment. The article proposes a comprehensive definition of Flow on the basis of Comprehensive Process (Flow) Model of Network Navigation, considering that the Flow concept is a multidimensional concept in the “multi-activity” medium of the Web. Flow has been defined as a multi-dimensional and context-specific concept. Furthermore, the research article proposes that there are 10 Flow constructs (also called “the antecedents of Flow”) along with the three states of Flow, namely, Perfect Flow, Imperfect-Intensive Flow, and Imperfect Flow. Consumer Behavior on the Web is studied using the Flow concept for three categories of Flow users, namely, Perfect and Imperfect-Intensive Flow (PIIF) users, Imperfect Flow (IF) users, and Non-Flow (NF) users. These users achieve Flow depending on 10 Flow-constructs and three Flow states. Empirical results suggest a direct relationship between the Flow states and the Flow user categories and between expected Web user in the future (EXPUSE) and the Flow user categories. This research study provides a basis for future researchers to study consumer navigation behavior on the Web using the Flow concept for three categories of Flow users through 10 Flow constructs and three Flow states. The research has significant implications for theory and practice.