bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning experiences on role‐emerging placements: An exploration from the students' perspective
Authors: Dancza Karina , Warren Alison , Copley Jodie , Rodger Sylvia , Moran Monica , McKay Elizabeth , Taylor Ann
Published: September 2013

Background/aim

Occupational therapy educators are challenged to provide students with practical experiences which prepare them for ever changing health‐care contexts on graduation. Role‐emerging placements have been widely used internationally to help meet this challenge, but research into the learning experiences of students during these innovative placements is limited. This research investigated the enablers and barriers to learning from the perspectives of students on such placements from two European universities.

Methods

Two separate qualitative studies tracked 10 final year students. Interviews explored their learning experiences prior to, during and after an eight‐ or 10‐week role‐emerging placement in a range of settings.

Results

Four themes emerged, which were (1) adapting to less doing, more thinking and planning; (2) understanding the complexity of collaboration and making it work; (3) emotional extremes; and (4) realising and using the occupational therapy perspective.

Conclusions

These placements presented a ‘roller coaster’ of authentic learning experiences which created the opportunity for students to use occupation in practice and develop skills for collaborative working in an interprofessional environment. Whereas students viewed their role‐emerging placement experiences positively, challenges included the emotional responses of students and placement pace. Findings suggest the need for supportive student placement experiences in both established and role‐emerging areas to prepare students for a range of opportunities in an uncertain future.
Story retelling by bilingual children with language impairments and typically developing controls
Authors: Squires Katie E. , Lugo‐Neris Mirza J. , Peña Elizabeth D. , Bedore Lisa M. , Bohman Thomas M. , Gillam Ronald B.
Published: August 2013

Background

To date there is limited information documenting growth patterns in the narratives of bilingual children with and without primary language impairment (PLI).

Aims

This study was designed to determine whether bilingual children with and without PLI present similar gains from kindergarten to first grade in the macro‐ and microstructure of stories told in Spanish and English.

Methods & Procedures

In this longitudinal study, 21 bilingual children identified with PLI were each matched to a bilingual typically developing (TD) peer on age, sex, non‐verbal IQ and language exposure. During their kindergarten and first‐grade years, children retold stories from wordless picture books in Spanish (L1) and English (L2).

Outcomes & Results

Overall, TD children outperformed those with PLI on measures of macro‐ and microstructure at both time points. For the macrostructure measure, the TD group made significantly larger improvements in both languages from kindergarten to first grade than the PLI group. For microstructure, the TD children made more gains on their Spanish retells than their English retells. However, the PLI children's microstructure scores did not differ from kindergarten to first grade in either language. We found that macrostructure scores in Spanish at kindergarten predicted macrostructure scores in English at first grade when English experience was held constant. However, this same relationship across languages was not evident in microstructure.

Conclusions & Implications

TD and PLI children differed in the development of narrative macro‐ and microstructure between kindergarten and first grade. The TD bilinguals transferred conceptually dependent narrative skills easily, but then had to learn independently the nuances of each language to be successful using literate language. Because most children with PLI need more exposure to establish strong connections between their L1 and L2, they had more difficulty transferring their knowledge of literate language forms from one language to another.
‘Hooray! Hooray! the End of the World has been Postponed!’ Politics of Peace in the Adventures of Tintin?
Authors: Rösch Felix
Published: September 2013

Tintin is a cultural icon whose popularity has led to critical assessments accusing the comic of perpetuating orientalist and racist images. This article presents a different reading of Tintin by asking a more fundamental question: what understanding of the political is manifested in Tintin's Adventures? I argue that Tintin creates a political sphere that fosters an image of peace which does not eradicate conflicts, but facilitates them. Bildung, spatio-temporal conditionality of knowledge, spheres of elasticity, and power ensure that they do not turn into violence. All these are characteristics of the comic and create a powerful visualisation of the human condition of politics.
Bridging the Relevance Gap in Political Science
Authors: Wood Matthew
Published: September 2013

This article argues that scholars overestimate the ability of a methodologically ‘pluralistic’ political science to gain impact in policymaking, which in Britain is increasingly ‘positivist’, privileging quantitative evidence. This ‘relevance gap’ between pluralistic political science and positivistic policymaking means that political scientists are disadvantaged in achieving ‘impact’ compared to disciplines like behavioural economics. The article proposes two solutions to bridge this ‘gap’: improving the ‘accessibility’ of research and stimulating ‘interaction’ between researchers and policymakers through methodological workshops.
Two Meanings of ‘Reasonableness’: Dispelling the ‘Floating’ Reasonable Doubt
Authors: Picinali Federico
Published: September 2013

The ‘reasonable doubt standard’ is the controlling standard of proof for criminal fact finding in several jurisdictions. Drawing on decision theory, some scholars have argued that the stringency of this standard varies according to the circumstances of the case. This article contends that the standard does not lend itself to the ‘sliding‐scale’ approach mandated by decision theory. This is supported through investigation of the concept of ‘reasonableness’. While this concept has mostly been studied as it operates with reference to practical reasoning, scant attention has been given to the meaning that it acquires when referred to theoretical reasoning. Unlike in the former case, reasonableness does not in the latter depend on the reasoner's attitudes in favour of the outcomes of a decisional process. Therefore, since criminal fact finding is an instance of theoretical reasoning, the question whether in this enterprise a doubt is reasonable is not susceptible to a decision‐theoretic approach.
Neighbourhood social ties: how much do residential, physical and virtual mobility matter?
Authors: Knies Gundi
Published: September 2013

Following up on the prediction by classical sociological theorists that neighbours will become irrelevant as societies become more mobile, this research examines the strength of people's social ties with neighbours and the associations thereof with residential, physical and virtual mobility using longitudinal data for Germany. Unlike previous studies, the research considers the three forms of mobility simultaneously and contrasts its effects on social ties with neighbours to those with family. The results show that residential and physical mobility are negatively associated with social ties to neighbours and positively with ties to family. Virtual mobility does not weaken social ties with neighbours but ties with family. The positive association between mobility and social ties with family may not be strong enough to ascertain that people maintain as close social ties to others in the future as it does not outweigh the negative association with visiting neighbours.
Strangers in a strange land: coping with imprisonment as a racial or ethnic foreign national inmate
Authors: Kruttschnitt Candace , Dirkzwager Anja , Kennedy Liam
Published: September 2013

A wide range of scholarship examining the global effects of neo‐liberalism draws attention to the precarious position of individuals who are not seen as part of the social body. While immigrants, racial minorities, and common criminals are central to this discourse, relatively little research has examined how the experiences of these individuals may vary based on statuses other than citizenship when they are imprisoned. Our research focuses on the interactions (between prisoners and between prisoners and correctional staff) of a racially diverse group ofDutch foreign national prisoners incarcerated inEngland. Although all of these prisoners clearly saw themselves as ‘outsiders,’ visible minorities faced a unique set of challenges relative to their White counterparts. We consider both the practical and theoretical import of these findings.
Public sphere as assemblage: the cultural politics of roadside memorialization
Authors: Campbell Elaine
Published: September 2013

This paper investigates contemporary academic accounts of the public sphere. In particular, it takes stock of post‐Habermasian public sphere scholarship, and acknowledges a lively and variegated debate concerning the multiple ways in which individuals engage in contemporary political affairs. A critical eye is cast over a range of key insights which have come to establish the parameters of what ‘counts’ as a/the public sphere, who can be involved, and where and how communicative networks are established. This opens up the conceptual space for re‐imagining a/the public sphere as an assemblage. Making use of recent developments in Deleuzian‐inspired assemblage theory – most especially drawn from DeLanda's (2006) ‘new philosophy of society’ – the paper sets out an alternative perspective on the notion of the public sphere, and regards it as a space of connectivity brought into being through a contingent and heterogeneous assemblage of discursive, visual and performative practices. This is mapped out with reference to the cultural politics of roadside memorialization. However, a/the public sphere as an assemblage is not simply a ‘social construction’ brought into being through a logic of connectivity, but is an emergent and ephemeral space which reflexively nurtures and assembles the cultural politics (and political cultures) of which it is an integral part. The discussion concludes, then, with a consideration of the contribution of assemblage theory to public sphere studies. (Also see Campbell 2009a)
Vitamin A supplementation and BCG vaccination at birth may affect atopy in childhood: long‐term follow‐up of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kiraly N. , Benn C. S. , Biering‐Sørensen S. , Rodrigues A. , Jensen K. J. , Ravn H. , Allen K. J. , Aaby P.
Published: August 2013

Background

Recent evidence suggests that immunogenic interventions such as vaccines and micronutrients may affect atopic sensitization and atopic disease. We aimed to determine whether neonatal BCG vaccination, vitamin A supplementation and other vaccinations affect atopy in childhood.

Methods

In Guinea–Bissau, low‐birthweight infants were randomized to early (intervention) or delayed (usual policy) BCG. A subgroup was also randomly assigned vitamin A supplementation or placebo in a two‐by‐two factorial design. Participants were followed up at age 3–9 years. The main outcome was atopy defined as skin prick test reaction ≥3 mm. Secondary outcomes were symptoms of eczema, asthma and food allergy.

Results

Two hundred eighty‐one children had valid skin prick tests performed, and 14% (39/281) were atopic. There was no significant difference in atopy between the early and delayed BCG groups (OR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.34–1.47). Atopy was significantly reduced in children who had responded to BCG with a scar (OR, 0.42; 0.19–0.94). Vitamin A supplementation was associated with increased atopy (OR, 2.88; 1.26–6.58), especially in those who received simultaneous BCG (5.99; 1.99–18.1, P = 0.09 for interaction between vitamin A supplementation and BCG). Early vs delayed BCG was not associated with symptoms of atopic disease, but vitamin A supplementation increased odds of wheeze within the past 12 months (OR, 2.45; 1.20–4.96).

Conclusions

There were no statistically significant effects of early vs delayed BCG on atopy or symptoms of atopic disease. Having a BCG scar was associated with reduced atopy, whereas neonatal vitamin A supplementation was associated with increased atopy.

Study Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT 01420705.
Accuracy of the Lifebox pulse oximeter during hypoxia in healthy volunteers
Authors: Dubowitz G. , Breyer K. , Lipnick M. , Sall J. W. , Feiner J. , Ikeda K. , MacLeod D. B. , Bickler P. E.
Published: August 2013

Pulse oximetry is a standard of care during anaesthesia in high‐income countries. However, 70% of operating environments in low‐ and middle‐income countries have no pulse oximeter. The ‘Lifebox’ oximetry project set out to bridge this gap with an inexpensive oximeter meeting CE (European Conformity) and ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards. To date, there are no performance‐specific accuracy data on this instrument. The aim of this study was to establish whether the Lifebox pulse oximeter provides clinically reliable haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) readings meeting USA Food and Drug Administration 510(k) standards. Using healthy volunteers, inspired oxygen fraction was adjusted to produce arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SaO2) readings between 71% and 100% measured with a multi‐wavelength oximeter. Lifebox accuracy was expressed using bias (SpO2 − SaO2), precision (SD of the bias) and the root mean square error (Arms). Simultaneous readings of SaO2 and SpO2 in 57 subjects showed a mean (SD) bias of −0.41% (2.28%) and Arms 2.31%. The Lifebox pulse oximeter meets current USA Food and Drug Administration standards for accuracy, thus representing an inexpensive solution for patient monitoring without compromising standards.
Introduction and use of video‐assisted endoscopic thyroidectomy for patients in Belarus affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster
Authors: Igarashi Takehito , Shimizu Kazuo , Yakubouski Siarhei , Akasu Haruki , Okamura Ritsuko , Sugitani Iwao , Jikuzono Tomoo , Danilova Larisa
Published: September 2013

Introduction

We developed video‐assisted neck surgery (VANS) – a feasible, simple, and safe endoscopic thyroid procedure with cosmetic benefits – in 1998. To date, we have performed this procedure 633 times. We have also introduced the VANS method in Belarus, a country that was left contaminated by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

Methods

From a mass screening, nine Belarusian patients, including two with papillary carcinoma of the thyroid, were selected to undergo an operation using the VANS method, performed by a single surgeon (author Shimizu). We compared indicating factors for minimally invasive surgery, specifically the operating time and blood loss, between the Belarusian cases and the 33 most recent cases performed at our institute in Tokyo.

Results

The procedures in Belarus were performed under very different working conditions than in Japan. However, operating time and blood loss improved for the Belarusian cases as the surgeon gained experience in this environment; all the cosmetic outcomes were excellent. Subsequently, over a 2‐year period, surgeons in Belarus performed the VANS method, with modification, for 29 cases of thyroid tumor.

Conclusion

The VANS method is easily learned by inexperienced surgeons without major technical problems.
Multiple infusions of mesenchymal stromal cells induce sustained remission in children with steroid‐refractory, grade III–IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease
Authors: Ball Lynne M. , Bernardo Maria E. , Roelofs Helene , van Tol Maarten J. D. , Contoli Benedetta , Zwaginga Jaap Jan , Avanzini Maria Antonia , Conforti Antonella , Bertaina Alice , Giorgiani Giovanna , Jol‐van der Zijde Cornelia M. , Zecca Marco , Le Blanc Katarina , Frassoni Francesco , Egeler Rudolph Maarten , Fibbe Willem E. , Lankester Arjan C. , Locatelli Franco
Published: August 2013

Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) infusions have been reported to be effective in patients with steroid‐refractory, acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGvHD) but comprehensive data on paediatric patients are limited. We retrospectively analysed a cohort of 37 children (aged 3 months‐17 years) treated with MSCs for steroid‐refractory grade III–IV aGvHD. All patients but three received multiple MSC infusions. Complete response (CR) was observed in 24 children (65%), while 13 children had either partial (n = 8) or no response (n = 5). Cumulative incidence of transplantation‐related mortality (TRM) in patients who did or did not achieve CR was 17% and 69%, respectively (P = 0·001). After a median follow‐up of 2·9 years, overall survival (OS) was 37%; it was 65% vs. 0% in patients who did or did not achieve CR, respectively (P = 0·001). The median time from starting steroids for GvHD treatment to first MSC infusion was 13 d (range 5–85). Children treated between 5 and 12 d after steroid initiation showed a trend for better OS (56%) and lower TRM (17%) as compared with patients receiving MSCs 13–85 d after steroids (25% and 53%, respectively; P = 0·22 and 0·06, respectively). Multiple MSC infusions are safe and effective for children with steroid‐refractory aGvHD, especially when employed early in the disease course.
Evaluation of LPM permafrost distribution in NE Asia reconstructed and downscaled from GCM simulations
Authors: Saito Kazuyuki , Marchenko Sergei , Romanovsky Vladimir , Hendricks Amy , Bigelow Nancy , Yoshikawa Kenji , Walsh John
Published: September 2013

A high‐resolution map of potential frozen ground distribution in NE Asia (90–150°E, 25–60°N) at the period of the Last Permafrost Maximum (LPM, c. 21 000 years ago) was dually reconstructed by means of a statistical classification using air freezing and thawing indices and a topographical downscaling using a digital relief model (ETOPO1). Background LPM climate data were derived from global climate model simulations of the Paleoclimate Model Intercomparison Project, Phase II (PMIP2). The reconstructed LPM map shows the southward shift of the southern limit of climate‐driven permafrost by 400–1500 km, with the greatest advance in the western sector (90–110°E), encompassing an area from central Siberia to most of the Altai area. The advance of environmentally conditional permafrost and seasonally frozen ground was greatest in the eastern sector (110–150°E), with an average shift of about 450 km. The descent of the lower limit of LPM alpine permafrost was in the range of 400–800 m. A comparison of the reconstructed map with published literature shows that this method, simplistically constructed yet effectively recognizing seasonality, continentality and topography, captures local features better than more elaborate methods. The sensitivity examination of a constant atmospheric lapse rate shows that altitudes of 2000–5000 m a.s.l. were most sensitive, though with only a limited effect on overall LPM distribution.
Regulation of mitochondrial bioenergetic function by hydrogen sulfide. Part I. Biochemical and physiological mechanisms
Authors: Szabo Csaba , Ransy Céline , Módis Katalin , Andriamihaja Mireille , Murghes Baptiste , Coletta Ciro , Olah Gabor , Yanagi Kazunori , Bouillaud Frédéric
Published: September 2013

Until recently, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was exclusively viewed a toxic gas and an environmental hazard, with its toxicity primarily attributed to the inhibition of mitochondrial Complex IV, resulting in a shutdown of mitochondrial electron transport and cellular ATP generation. Work over the last decade established multiple biological regulatory roles of H2S, as an endogenous gaseous transmitter. H2S is produced by cystathionine γ‐lyase (CSE), cystathionine β‐synthase (CBS) and 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3‐MST). In striking contrast to its inhibitory effect on Complex IV, recent studies showed that at lower concentrations, H2S serves as a stimulator of electron transport in mammalian cells, by acting as a mitochondrial electron donor. Endogenous H2S, produced by mitochondrially localized 3‐MST, supports basal, physiological cellular bioenergetic functions; the activity of this metabolic support declines with physiological aging. In specialized conditions (calcium overload in vascular smooth muscle, colon cancer cells), CSE and CBS can also associate with the mitochondria; H2S produced by these enzymes, serves as an endogenous stimulator of cellular bioenergetics. The current article overviews the biochemical mechanisms underlying the stimulatory and inhibitory effects of H2S on mitochondrial function and cellular bioenergetics and discusses the implication of these processes for normal cellular physiology. The relevance of H2S biology is also discussed in the context of colonic epithelial cell physiology: colonocytes are exposed to high levels of sulfide produced by enteric bacteria, and serve as a metabolic barrier to limit their entry into the mammalian host, while, at the same time, utilizing it as a metabolic ‘fuel’.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Energy, Injury & Beyond. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐8
Effects of an Invasive Alien Poaceae on Aquatic Macrophytes and Fish Communities in a Neotropical Reservoir
Authors: Carniatto Natalia , Thomaz Sidinei M. , Cunha Eduardo R. , Fugi Rosemara , Ota Renata R.
Published: September 2013

We investigated the potential effects of an invasive alien Poaceae (Urochloa arrecta) on the abundance, richness, and composition of native macrophytes and fish. Samples were collected in patches of macrophytes dominated by the invasive species and in others dominated by a native macrophyte (Eichhornia azurea). We assessed the potential effects of these two species on macrophyte and fish abundance and richness, as well as in fish assemblage composition. The effects of both macrophytes did not differ when they were in similar, low biomasses. Consistent with our expectations, however, the abundance of native macrophytes and fish decreased with increasing U. arrecta biomass, and both assemblages were eliminated at the extreme high levels of biomass attained by this species. In contrast, E. azurea did not affect the assemblages because this native species never reached levels of biomass as high as those recorded for the invasive species. Competition for space and light most likely determines the elimination of macrophytes in patches that are extensively colonized by U. arrecta, whereas fish assemblages do not occupy these patches due most likely to the limited space available for movement and foraging. Thus, U. arrecta is a source of concern for biodiversity conservation because it has negative influences on both assemblages when it is well developed, which is true in the later stages of the invasion process.
The HALOS‐ND model: a step in the journey of predicting hospital length of stay after liver transplantation
Authors: Krishnan Kartik R. , Bhattacharya Renuka , Pereira Arema , Otto Annie K. , Carithers Robert L. , Reyes Jorge D. , Perkins James D.
Published: September 2013

Hospital length of stay (LOS) after liver transplantation has been determined to correlate with liver disease severity, post‐transplant survival rates, and transplant‐associated costs. A patient's model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score and an organ's Donor risk index (DRI) have both been found to be significant predictors of LOS, but these two factors alone are insufficient to form an accurate prediction. Previous studies have identified other factors predictive of LOS, which can be incorporated with MELD and DRI to create more specific results. The objective of this study was to create an algorithm, or models, based on the most significant LOS predictors as identified from national data at different stages of the transplant process. Four models were developed predicting LOS using recipient factors, payment factors, donor factors, and postoperative factors. A medical care team member can enter a patient's data into the model and receive a reasonably accurate prediction of LOS for each phase of the liver transplant process, specifying the impact of each factor. These predictions would help predict the factors most likely to prolong LOS, inform resource allocation, and provide patients with more specific predictions of their LOS following transplantation.
Impact of donor and recipient age difference on long‐term allograft survival after living donor renal transplantation: analysis of 478 cases
Authors: Kostakis Ioannis D. , Moris Demetrios N. , Barlas Alexandros , Bokos Ioannis , Darema Maria , Theodoropoulou Eleni , Karaolanis Georgios , Kostakis Alkiviadis , Boletis Ioannis , Zavos Georgios
Published: August 2013

Introduction

Either deceased or living‐related renal transplantation constitutes the best therapeutic option for patients with end‐stage renal disease. In this retrospective study, an attempt to identify parameters that affect allograft survival in living donor renal transplantation was made.

Methods

Between January 2000 and July 2012, 478 adult patients received a renal transplant from a living‐related donor in our center and their records were retrospectively reviewed in November 2012. Data concerning donor age, recipient age, donor/recipient age difference, donor/recipient gender, and ABO compatibility/incompatibility were recorded and associated with renal allograft survival rate.

Results

Renal allograft survival rate was 96%, 89.5%, and 77.7% in the first, fifth, and 10th yr after transplantation, respectively. Only the difference between donor and recipient age was statistically significant in relation to graft survival. In cases with age difference >13 yr, graft survival rate was lower from the third yr onward.

Conclusions

Only the age difference between donor and recipient exerts an adverse impact on graft outcome after living donor renal transplantation, whereas donor age, recipient age, donor/recipient gender, and ABO incompatibility do not significantly influence renal allograft survival.
Complications related to invasive hemodynamic monitors during adult liver transplantation
Authors: Lu Shu Y. , Matsusaki Takashi , Abuelkasem Ezeldeen , Sturdevant Mark L. , Humar Abhinav , Hilmi Ibtesam A. , Planinsic Raymond M. , Sakai Tetsuro
Published: September 2013

The rate of complications directly related to invasive monitors during liver transplantation (LT) was reviewed in 1206 consecutive adult LTs performed over 8.6 yr (1/1/2004–7/31/2012). The designated anesthesiologists placed intra‐operative monitors, including two arterial catheters (via the radial and the right femoral arteries), central venous catheters (a 9 Fr. catheter and an 18 Fr. veno‐venous bypass [VVB] return cannula in an internal jugular vein), a pulmonary artery catheter, and a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe. A 17 Fr. VVB drainage cannula was placed via the left femoral vein. No Clavien–Dindo Grade V (death) or Grade IV (organ dysfunction) complication was identified. Nine Grade III complications (requiring surgical intervention) and 15 Grade II complications (conservative treatment) were noted. Seven (0.58% in 1206 cases) were related to a femoral arterial line with Grade III of four; seven (0.58%) were due to VVB return cannula in the femoral vein with Grade III of one; four (0.33%) were related to central venous catheters with Grade III of two; four (0.33%) were due to a TEE probe with Grade III of two; and two minor complications (0.17%) that were related to a radial arterial line. No complication was observed with a pulmonary arterial catheter. Current invasive monitors placed during LT have an acceptable risk.
Self‐assessment of postoperative scars in living liver donors
Authors: Imamura Hajime , Soyama Akihiko , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Muraoka Izumi , Hara Takanobu , Yamaguchi Izumi , Tanaka Takayuki , Kinoshita Ayaka , Kuroki Tamotsu , Eguchi Susumu
Published: September 2013

Background

The application of less invasive techniques for liver surgery in patients undergoing living donor hepatectomy (LDH) has been reported. The objective of this study was to evaluate physical status according to type of incision in donors.

Methods

One hundred and forty‐seven living liver donors underwent hepatectomy using three types of incisions: (i) Mercedes‐Benz incision (M.B.), (ii) right subcostal incision with midline up to xiphoid incision (S.C.), and (iii) short upper midline incision (U.M.). A total of 100 donors answered the questionnaires, and 87 had sufficient data for the analyses. An original questionnaire designed to evaluate the physical status concerning postoperative scars. The questionnaire consisted of three major categories: appearance, sensation, and daily activities. The univariate analysis was performed using the chi‐square test.

Results

Numbness of the abdominal wall was reported more frequently by the donor with M.B.s and right subcostal incisions up to xiphoid incisions. In terms of appearance, sensation, and daily activities, LDH with a U.M. was found to have a good self‐assessment compared with that performed using other types of incisions.

Conclusions

LDH with a U.M. is a preferable procedure in terms of physical status and safety.
“Faith Alone”—Primus Inter Pares: Welcome to the Banquet
Authors: Simpson Gary M.
Published: September 2013

Faith alone represents the primus inter pares of the sixteenth‐century Reformation's four solas. Gary Simpson introduces five authors who critically explore and creatively extend the doctrine of justification by faith alone as Dialog with its Fall issues (2013–2017) leans into the 500th anniversary of the Reformation (2017).
Faith Alone: Reflections on an Adverb
Authors: Lange Dirk G.
Published: September 2013

In response to critics of his New Testament translation, Luther points out that they simply do not understand the grammar restrictions of language that requires the addition of the word alone in his translation of Paul's letter to the Romans. Luther also points out that they do not understand that alone in this passage is an adverb and not an adjective. This article explores the significance of the word alone (in “faith alone”) when it is considered an adverb as opposed to an adjective. As an adverb, alone resists attempts to manipulate it into a metaphysical principle. Alone as an adverb keeps faith as a living, dynamic relationship that God established and which comes to expression in the celebration of the sacrament.
Living Sola Fide: Features of Religious Recognition
Authors: Saarinen Risto
Published: September 2013

This article discusses the life of faith and forensic justification as related to some new issues in social theory, especially Axel Honneth's notions of love, respect, and esteem. The article is critical of virtue ethics and recommends an ethics of vocation as a path toward equal respect and individual social esteem. The article also discusses why Lutherans consider faith (or even faith alone) rather than love as a proper starting‐point of this path.
Clinical impact of factor V Leiden, prothrombin G20210A, and MTHFR C677T mutations among sickle cell disease patients of Central India
Authors: Nishank Sudhansu Sekhar , Singh Mendi Prema Shyam Sunder , Yadav Rajiv
Published: September 2013

Background

It is known that patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) present activation of the blood coagulation and fibrinolytic systems, especially during vaso‐occlusive crises and also during the steady state of the disease. We determined whether the presence of the factor prothrombin gene G20210A variant, factor V gene G1691A mutation (factor V Leiden), and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphisms may be risk factors for vascular complications in individuals with SCD.

Methods

The study involved 150 patients with sickle cell anemia and 150 healthy controls of Central India. Genotyping of three thrombophilic mutations was carried out by PCR‐RFLP methods using MnlI, Hind III, and Hinf I, respectively, for factor V Leiden, prothrombin, and MTHFR mutations.

Results

Patients with SCD had significantly higher prevalence of mutant variants of MTHFR gene (28.0% heterozygotes and 14.6% homozygotes) and FVL gene (14.6% heterozygotes) as compared to normal/control individuals, but complete absence of mutant variants of prothrombin gene. The patients with SCD having mutant variants of MTHFR and FVL genes showed higher incidence of pain in chest, abdomen, and bone joints along with early age of onset of clinical manifestations as well as frequent dependence on blood transfusion than those patients with SCD having wild variants of these thrombotic genes. As compared to control subjects, SCD individuals having mutant variants of FVL and MTHFR genes had significant association with higher levels of prothrombin fragment (F1+2), D‐dimer, thrombin‐antithrombin (TAT), and lower level of protein C.

Conclusion

MTHFR C677T and FVL G1691A polymorphisms may be risk factors for increased vascular complications in patient with SCD.
Human herpesvirus 8+ polyclonal IgMλ B‐cell lymphocytosis mimicking plasmablastic leukemia/lymphoma in HIV‐infected patients
Authors: Oksenhendler Eric , Boutboul David , Beldjord Kheira , Meignin Véronique , de Labarthe Adrienne , Fieschi Claire , Dossier Antoine , Agbalika Felix , Parravicini Carlo , Tosato Giovanna , Gérard Laurence , Galicier Lionel
Published: September 2013

Purpose

Multicentric Castleman disease (MCD) is a distinct lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by inflammatory symptoms, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and cytopenia. Kaposi's sarcoma‐associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also called human herpesvirus‐8 (HHV‐8), is the cause of virtually all cases of MCD occurring in patients with HIV infection. MCD lesions characteristically contain HHV‐8‐infected polyclonal IgMλ plasmablasts. A high frequency of HHV‐8‐related non‐Hodgkin lymphoma has been reported in these patients.

Patients and methods

We now report on three patients who presented with severe symptoms of MCD, extreme splenomegaly, and rapid expansion of B‐cell lymphocytosis (44–81%) attributable to circulating HHV‐8 positive plasmablasts.

Results

The circulating plasmablastic cells shared the phenotype (IgMλ, CD19+, CD20− CD138−) of HHV‐8‐infected cells from MCD lesions, mimicking the leukemic phase of large B‐cell lymphoma occurring in HHV‐8‐related MCD. These patients displayed a very high HHV‐8 viral load in blood (>7 logs HHV‐8 DNA copies/ml) and high levels of serum vIL‐6, the viral homolog of human interleukin 6. Serum IL‐6 and IL‐10 were also abnormally elevated. HHV‐8‐infected cells were demonstrated by immunoglobulin gene rearrangement analysis, to be polyclonal and likely represent an expansion of HHV‐8‐infected cells similar to those found in MCD lesions.

Conclusion

Thus, the spectrum of HHV‐8‐related plasmablastic lymphoproliferative disorders in patients with HIV infection is expanded to include HHV‐8+ polyclonal IgMλ B‐cell lymphocytosis. At onset, this lymphoproliferative disorder may mimic plasmablastic leukemia/lymphoma. Recognizing this unusual complication may have important implications in treatment decision avoiding unnecessary toxicity to the patients.
Synaptic gating at axonal branches, and sharp‐wave ripples with replay: a simulation study
Authors: Vladimirov Nikita , Tu Yuhai , Traub Roger D.
Published: September 2013

Mechanisms of place cell replay occurring during sharp‐wave ripples (SPW‐Rs) remain obscure due to the fact that ripples in vitro depend on non‐synaptic mechanisms, presumably via axo‐axonal gap junctions between pyramidal cells. We suggest a model of in vivo SPW‐Rs in which synaptic excitatory post‐synaptic potentials (EPSPs) control the axonal spiking of cells in SPW‐Rs: ripple activity remains hidden in the network of axonal collaterals (connected by gap junctions) due to conduction failures, unless there is a sufficient dendritic EPSP. The EPSP brings the axonal branching point to threshold, and action potentials from the collateral start to propagate to the soma and to the distal axon. The model coherently explains multiple experimental data on SPW‐Rs, both in vitro and in vivo. The mechanism of synaptic gating leads to the following implication: a sequence of pyramidal cells can be replayed at ripple frequency by the superposition of subthreshold dendritic EPSPs and ripple activity in the axonal plexus. Replay is demonstrated in both forward and reverse directions. We discuss several testable predictions. In general, the mechanism of synaptic gating suggests that pyramidal cells under certain conditions can act like a transistor.
The effect of a hay grid feeder on feed consumption and measurement of the gastricpHusing an intragastric electrode device in horses: A preliminary report
Authors: Aristizabal F. , Nieto J. , Yamout S. , Snyder J.
Published: September 2013

Reasons for performing study

Obesity and gastric ulceration are highly prevalent in horses. Management modifications for preventing squamous gastric ulceration include frequent feeding and free access to pasture; however, these practices may predispose horses to obesity.

Objectives

To compare the percentage of hay consumed, intragastricpHand horse activity between feeding from the ground and a hay grid feeder.

Study design

Crossover experimental study.

Methods

ApHelectrode was inserted into the stomach to record the intragastricpHfor 48 h. Horses received 1% of their body weight in grass hay twice a day. Horses were assigned to be fed from the ground or a commercial hay grid feeder for 24 h and then switched to the opposite protocol for an additional 24 h. Horses were continuously video‐recorded and the percentage of time spent eating or drinking, walking or standing, and lying down were calculated. Two point data were compared by pairedttest andpHover time was compared by repeated measuresANOVA.

Results

Horses consumed significantly greater amounts of grass hay when fed on the ground compared with a hay grid feeder (n = 9; P<0.001). There were no significant differences between the groups for mean intragastricpHvalues (n = 6; P = 0.97), mean intragastricpHover time (n = 6; P = 0.45) the length of time thepHwas below 4.0 (n = 6; P = 0.54), and the percentage of time horses spent eating or drinking (n = 9; P = 0.52), walking or standing (n = 9; P = 0.3), or lying down (n = 9; P = 0.4). Within each group horses spent more time eating during the day compared with the night (n = 9; hay grid feeder P = 0.003; ground feeding P = 0.007).

Conclusions

The hay grid feeder studied may be used to reduce the amount of hay ingested by horses without reducing the time horses spend eating.
Enriching conflict resolution environments with the provision of context information
Authors: Carneiro Davide , Gomes Marco , Costa Ângelo , Novais Paulo , Neves José
Published: September 2013

It is a common affair to settle disputes out of courts nowadays, through negotiation, mediation or any other mean. This has also been implemented over telecommunication means under the so‐called Online Dispute Resolution methods. However, this new technology‐supported approach is impersonal and cold, leaving aside important issues such as the disputants' body language, stress level or emotional response while being based on forms, e‐mails or chat rooms. To overcome this shortcoming, in this paper, it is proposed the creation of intelligent environments for conflict resolution that can complement the existing tools with important knowledge about the context of interaction. This will allow decision‐makers to take better framed decisions based not only on figures but also on important contextual information, similar to what happens when parties communicate in the physical presence of each other.
A novel maritime risk assessment model incorporating a fuzzy rule‐based approach
Authors: Ung Shuen‐Tai
Published: September 2013

Because of the lack or incompleteness of data, a number of maritime risk studies based on fuzzy rule‐based approaches have been proposed. However, two drawbacks can be identified in such approaches. The first is the low degree of discrimination of risk results because of the membership function distribution of the linguistic terms describing inputs. The lack of discrimination becomes degenerative in circumstances where the membership functions of linguistic terms are disproportionately distributed. The second is the lack of consideration for different effects of risk results caused by input weights because of the loss of information from the inputs. By developing a new mechanism for constructing rules and fuzzy conclusions, a risk modelling capable of overcoming such difficulties is proposed. The methodology is validated using two case studies selected from the literature. It is concluded that the framework is able to provide better discrimination of risk results. Risk outcomes can be generated with confidence regardless of the membership function shapes of linguistic terms in both the antecedent and consequent parts. It also has the feature that enables risk results to be sensitive to the minor alterations of input weights.
Towards the rational design of antimicrobial proteins
Authors: Pulido David , Moussaoui Mohammed , Nogués M. Victòria , Torrent Marc , Boix Ester
Published: August 2013

The ribonuclease (RNase) A superfamily lineage includes distant members with antimicrobial properties, suggesting a common ancestral host‐defense role. In an effort to identify the minimal requirements for the eosinophil cationic protein (ECP or RNase 3) antimicrobial properties we applied site‐directed mutagenesis on its closest family homolog, the eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin (EDN or RNase 2). Both eosinophil secretion proteins are involved in human immune defense, and are reported as being among the most rapidly evolving coding sequences in primates. Previous studies in our laboratory defined two regions at the N–terminus involved in the protein antimicrobial action, encompassing residues 8–16 and 34–36. Here, we demonstrate that switching two single residues is enough to provide EDN with ECP antipathogen properties. That is, the EDN double‐mutant Q34R/R35W displays enhanced bactericidal activity, particularly towards Gram‐negative bacteria, and a significant increase in its affinity towards the bacterial outer membrane lipopolysaccharides. Moreover, we confirmed the direct contribution of residue W35 in lipopolysaccharide binding, membrane interaction and permeabilization processes. Furthermore, additional T13 to I substitution provides EDN with an exposed hydrophobic patch required for protein self‐aggregation and triggers bacterial agglutination, thereby increasing the final antimicrobial activity by up to 20–fold. Our results highlight how single selected mutations can reshape the entire protein function. This study provides an example of how structure‐guided protein engineering can successfully reproduce an evolution selection process towards the emergence of new physiological roles.
Excess fructose intake‐induced hypertrophic visceral adipose tissue results from unbalanced precursor cell adipogenic signals
Authors: Zubiría María G. , Fariña Juan P. , Moreno Griselda , Gagliardino Juan J. , Spinedi Eduardo , Giovambattista Andrés
Published: September 2013

We studied the effect of feeding normal adult male rats with a commercial diet supplemented with fructose added to the drinking water (10% w/v; fructose‐rich diet, FRD) on the adipogenic capacity of stromal‐vascular fraction (SVF) cells isolated from visceral adipose tissue (VAT) pads. Animals received either the commercial diet or FRD ad libitum for 3 weeks; thereafter, we evaluated the in vitro proliferative and adipogenic capacities of their VAT SVF cells. FRD significantly increased plasma insulin, triglyceride and leptin levels, VAT mass/cell size, and the in vitro adipogenic capacity of SVF cells. Flow cytometry studies indicated that the VAT precursor cell population number did not differ between groups; however, the accelerated adipogenic process could result from an imbalance between endogenous pro‐ and anti‐adipogenic SVF cell signals, which are clearly shifted towards the former. The increased insulin milieu and its intracellular mediator (insulin receptor substrate‐1) in VAT pads, as well as the enhanced SVF cell expression of Zpf423 and peroxisome proliferator receptor‐γ2 (all pro‐adipogenic modulators), together with a decreased SVF cell concentration of anti‐adipogenic factors (pre‐adipocyte factor‐1 and wingless‐type MMTV‐10b), strongly supports this assumption. We hypothesize that the VAT mass expansion recorded in FRD rats results from the combination of initial accelerated adipogenesis and final cell hypertrophy. It remains to be determined whether FRD administration over longer periods could perpetuate both processes, or whether cell hypertrophy itself remains responsible for a further VAT mass expansion, as observed in advanced/morbid obesity.
Doing the Business: Variegation, Opportunity and Intercultural Experience among Intra‐EU Highly‐Skilled Migrants
Authors: Mulholland Jon , Ryan Louise
Published: September 2013

Focusing on the working experiences of the French highly skilled in London's financial and business sectors, this paper examines the impact of ongoing pan‐European variegation on intra‐EU highly skilled migration in two key respects: firstly, in its role as a driver for mobility, through its association with divergent opportunity structures across different nations and regions; and secondly, as a potential obstacle to the successful realization of such opportunities, post migration, where mobility exposes the highly skilled migrant to new and embedded forms of difference. Such differences necessitate adaptations, and the acquisition of new inter‐cultural competencies, that go on to mediate the experience, evaluations and outcomes of such opportunity‐driven mobilities. In unpacking the particularities associated with the mobilities of specific populations (the French), to specific places (London) we seek to contribute to a people and place‐sensitive understanding of the relationship between spatial mobility and social mobility.

Policy Implications

EU policymakers need to consider the nature and impact of ongoing variegation on highly skilled mobility within Europe and the problems of non‐transferability of human capital that this may produce.

Highly skilled migration is crucial to sustaining the global talent pool that defines the London economy. Regional interests need to work with businesses and national policymakers to support and develop the opportunities, currently associated with London, for talented migrants to enhance their human capital.

Businesses need to enhance the inter‐cultural competencies of all staff to facilitate working practices for effectiveness, productivity and fairness.
Green Up‐Conversion Photoluminescence and Dielectric Relaxation of Ho3+/Yb3+‐Codoped Bi2Ti2O7 Pyrochlore Thin Films
Authors: Zhao Jianxiong , Qin Ni , Bao Dinghua
Published: September 2013

Ho3+/Yb3+‐codoped Bi2Ti2O7 pyrochlore thin films were prepared by a chemical solution deposition method, and their visible up‐conversion (UC) photoluminescence and dielectric relaxation were studied. Ho and Yb can be doped into Bi2Ti2O7 lattice and single pyrochlore phase is maintained. Intense visible UC photoluminescence can be observed under the excitation of a 980‐nm diode laser. Two UC emission bands centered at 551 nm and 665 nm in the spectra can be assigned to 5F4, 5S2→5I8 and 5F5→5I8 transitions of Ho3+ ions, respectively. The dependence of their UC emission intensity on pumping power indicates that both the green and red emissions of the thin films are two‐photon process. In addition, a Stokes near‐infrared emission centered at 1200 nm can be detected, which is due to 5I6→5I8 transition of Ho3+ ions. The thin films prepared on indium tin oxide–coated glass substrates exhibit a relatively high dielectric constant and a low dielectric loss as well as a good bias voltage stability. The dielectric relaxation of the thin films was also analyzed based on the temperature‐ and frequency‐dependent dielectric properties. This study suggests that Ho3+/Yb3+‐codoped Bi2Ti2O7 thin films are promising materials for developing multifunctional optoelectronic thin film devices.