bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To merge or not to merge? The impact of union merger decisions on workers' representation in Germany
Authors: Behrens Martin , Pekarek Andreas
Published: November 2012

Union mergers have been widely studied in a variety of countries; however, little is known about their impact on union effectiveness. This article draws on in‐depth interviews with officials and works councillors from four German unions, as well as on a representative survey of German works councils, to analyse how a union's merger status shapes its effectiveness in three spheres of activity: political lobbying, collective bargaining and establishment‐level interest representation. We compare two cases of merger with two cases of continued organisational independence, finding that merger outcomes for individual unions vary considerably across our three union functions.
Ideal and Non‐ideal Theory and the Problem of Knowledge
Authors: Herzog Lisa
Published: November 2012

This article analyses a hitherto neglected problem at the transition from ideal to non‐ideal theory: the problem of knowledge. Ideal theories often make idealising assumptions about the availability of knowledge, for example knowledge of social scientific facts. This can lead to problems when this knowledge turns out not to be available at the non‐ideal level. Knowledge can be unavailable in a number of ways: in principle, for practical reasons, or because there are normative reasons not to use it. This can make it necessary to revise ideal theories, because the principle of ‘ought implies can’ rules out certain theories, at least insofar as they are understood as action‐guiding. I discuss a number of examples and argue that there are two tendencies that will increase the relevance of this problem in the future: the availability of large amounts of sensitive data whose use is problematic from a normative point of view, and the increasing complexity of an interrelated world that makes it harder to predict the effects of institutional changes. To address these issues, philosophers need to cooperate with social scientists and philosophers of the social sciences. Normative theorising can then be understood as one step in a long process that includes thinkers from different disciplines. Ideal theory can respond to many of the charges raised against it if it is understood along these lines and if it takes the problem of knowledge and its implications seriously.
Metripol birefringence imaging of unconsolidated glaciotectonized and ice keel scoured sediments: identification of unistrial plasmic fabric
Authors: Linch Lorna D. , van der Meer Jaap J. M.
Published: November 2012

In unconsolidated sediments subject to strain, clays and silts are realigned into particular optical birefringent arrangements (plasmic fabrics), which provide information on the style and intensity of sediment deformation. A relatively new, non‐destructive, optical microscopy technique for automatically recording and quantifying birefringence (previously commercialized under the name ‘Metripol’) is pioneered in this study as a valuable and innovative micromorphological tool with which to examine deformation in unconsolidated sediments. Metripol is applied to unistrial plasmic fabric in glaciotectonized and ice keel scoured sediment from the Netherlands and former Glacial Lake Agassiz (Manitoba, Canada) respectively. Colour‐coded images are produced in which colour represents relative optical retardation and thus optical anisotropy through the quantity |sinδ| and optical orientation of anisotropy through the angle Ø (also indicated by linear azimuths). In this study Metripol typically demonstrates that the better developed the unistrial plasmic fabric is, the higher the |sinδ| values, the larger the areas of high |sinδ| values, and the longer and more densely populated the azimuths. In addition, some unistrial plasmic fabrics under Metripol demonstrate lower |sinδ| than previous examples and the surrounding sediment, despite being ‘perceived’ as demonstrating higher birefringence under a standard petrographic microscope. This is particularly true in clay‐rich sediments and has implications for the way we currently describe and interpret unistrial plasmic fabrics in unconsolidated sediment. Finally, the identification and quantification of additional structures that would otherwise have gone undetected using a standard petrographic microscope (e.g. linear and circular structures that are likely to represent discrete shears and skelsepic plasmic fabric, respectively) highlight the potential for Metripol to gather information on the deformation history of unconsolidated sediments that is unavailable to standard techniques.
Overview of: “Race, Place, and Drug Enforcement: Reconsidering the Impact of Citizen Complaints and Crime Rates on Drug Arrests”
Authors: Engel Robin S. , Smith Michael R. , Cullen Francis T.
Published: November 2012

Research Summary

Influential research has reported racial disparities in drug arrests in Seattle, Washington, that could not be explained by race‐neutral factors such as crime rates or community complaints. Based on new data, measures, and methods, we reexamine racial disparities in drug arrests in Seattle and find contradictory evidence. Our analysis, using drug‐related calls for service (CFS) as a benchmark, indicates that African Americans and Hispanics are either evenly represented or underrepresented among those arrested on drug charges in two drug markets examined. Similarly, this analysis reveals a moderate‐to‐strong association among drug arrests, drug‐related CFS, and crime. These results provide support for the “deployment hypothesis,” which argues that as a result of differential police deployment patterns, officers are likely to have increased contact with minority citizens and thus have more opportunities to detect criminal conduct. Our findings demonstrate the importance of selecting an appropriate and conceptually sound benchmark to measure racial disparities in criminal justice outcomes and the importance of selecting an appropriate unit of analysis.

Policy Implications

Our study cautions against the ready attribution of police practices to racial motives and shows the need for more research, across contexts, into this ongoing policy issue. These findings suggest that racial disparities in drug arrests seem to be more structural in nature rather than based on racial animus and individual police bias. It is, therefore, unlikely that these disparities can be eliminated by popular interventions such as police training in cultural sensitivity or by efforts to monitor and punish officers. This result leads to a consideration of whether focusing police resources based on citizen complaints and reported crimes represents equitable policing and, if not, what would constitute a realistic policy alternative.
CH Stands for Cheese, Right? A Swiss Culture Class and the National Standards
Authors: Seidlitz Lisa
Published: November 2012

Culture has always been a part of foreign language learning. However, in recent years, more and more language professors advocate placing culture at the center of our classes. The question of just how to teach culture remains a topic of debate. This paper describes the reworking of a traditional German grammar and reading course into a class that integrates grammar, literature, non‐fiction texts, and cultural presentations in order to teach students explicitly about Swiss cultural products and practices. The effectiveness of the reworked course is assessed through pre‐ and post‐tests of factual knowledge of and attitudes toward Switzerland. The redesigned class serves as a model for incorporation of the ACTFL National Standards into an advanced German language course.
Taking Center Stage: Lessons of Austrian Comedy in an Advanced German Course
Authors: Parkes Lisa
Published: November 2012

This article focuses on approaches to teaching dramatic comedy in an upper‐level undergraduate course. In particular, it outlines how the genre of comedy permits a special focus on Austria, where the rich tradition of comedy holds a prominent place in German‐speaking Europe. I argue that dramatic comedy grants language learners a unique perspective on the distinct literary and cultural histories of each German‐speaking nation, and that the single‐genre focus allows for closer attention to a variety of sub‐genres, topics, historical periods, rhetorical devices, as well as linguistic variation. The particular approach to comedy outlined here integrates dramatic performance with creative and analytic writings tasks designed to develop cultural and intercultural competencies as well as aesthetic and interpretive abilities. Furthermore, special attention to the rhetorical devices and linguistic variation in comedy promotes critical language awareness and a higher level of linguistic proficiency.
Adopting a Pluricentric Approach
Authors: van Kerckvoorde Colette
Published: November 2012

This article argues for a “D‐A‐CH” approach, which stands for Germany (D), Austria (A), and Switzerland (CH), in language classes from the introductory level on. I begin by tracing the emergence and development of distinct Standard Swiss and Austrian German varieties. I then discuss marketing efforts for Swiss and Austrian German, and finally address the need for an approach that is not limited to Germany, but one that includes Swiss and Austrian German language and culture. In order to deepen instructors’ understanding of Swiss and Austrian varieties of German, I close with some suggestions for further reading and for designing instruction.
Design Is Entrepreneurship Is Design Is…
Authors: O'Grady James K.
Published: November 2012

If designers were educated as if they were budding entrepreneurs, business issues would be more relevant.
Nucleotide oligomerization domain 2 polymorphisms in patients with intestinal failure
Authors: Guerra Juan Francisco , Zasloff Michael , Lough Denver , Abdo Joseph , Hawksworth Jason , Mastumoto Cal , Girlanda Raffaele , Island Eddie , Shetty Kirty , Kaufman Stuart , Fishbein Thomas
Published: November 2012

Background

Nucleotide oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) has been associated with intestinal immunity after the discovery that its polymorphisms are linked to Crohn's disease (CD). Intestinal failure (IF) represents a wider spectrum of diseases where intestinal homeostasis has been disrupted.

Aim

To evaluate the prevalence of NOD2 mutations in a population with IF as well as its association with the different conditions causing this problem.

Methods

One hundred ninety‐two consecutive patients with IF and 103 healthy controls were genotyped for the three most common NOD2 polymorphisms. Genotypes were compared between the groups and were related to the entities causing IF.

Results

A high percentage (26%) of patients had at least one of the three most common NOD2 polymorphisms, while only a 4.8% of healthy controls had a mutant genotype. In patients with IF, specific mutations for the 702W, 908R and 1007fs alleles were 11, 5 and 12.5%, respectively, compared with 0.9% (P = 0.0003), 1.9% (P = 0.1) and 1.9% (P = 0.001) in the control group. If we consider patients with any cause of IF other than CD, the percentage is still as high as 18.8%, with specific mutation frequencies of 7.6% (702W; P = 0.01), 5.8% (908R; P = 0.1) and 8.2% (1007fs; P = 0.002). We could not establish an association between a NOD2 mutant genotype with any other specific clinical condition other than CD.

Conclusion

Our finding supports the importance of NOD2 in the maintenance of intestinal immune homeostasis and may be important to a variety of intestinal stressors.
Analysis of altered microRNA expression profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Qin Baodong , Huang Fenglou , Liang Yan , Yang Zaixing , Zhong Renqian
Published: November 2012

Background and Aim

MicroRNA, as an important regulator of gene expression, has been found to be associated with several diseases. MicroRNA expression profiles have been identified in several autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. However, the expression profile in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) patients and the role of microRNA in PBC remained unclear. The present study aimed to explore abnormal microRNA regulation in PBC.

Methods

MicroRNA array was performed in PBMCs obtained from PBC patients versus healthy controls. Then, six of the 17 differentially expressed microRNAs were confirmed using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Based on bioinformatics analysis, we identified the potential biological processes and significant signaling pathways affected by these microRNAs, and generated the microRNA–gene network.

Results

According to microRNA array, a total of 17 microRNAs were found to be differentially expressed. Six microRNAs have been validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, and the results were consistent with microRNA array analysis. The bioinformatics analysis showed that the potential target genes of these microRNAs were involved in cell proliferation, cell differentiation, apoptosis, and signal transduction. Similarly, these microRNAs also affected endocytosis, mitogen‐activated protein kinase signaling pathway, transforming growth factor‐β signaling pathway, Wnt signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, etc.

Conclusion

In the present study, 17 microRNAs were identified to be differentially expressed in PBMCs from PBC patients. Functional bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that prediction genes targeted by these microRNAs were involved in multiple biological processes and signaling pathways. The present study offers intriguing new perspectives on the involvement of microRNA in PBC, but the precise mechanisms need to be validated further.
RACK1 identified as the PCBP1‐interacting protein with a novel functional role on the regulation of human MOR gene expression
Authors: Nahar‐Gohad Pranjal , Sultan Hamidah , Esteban Ysabella , Stabile Alyda , Ko Jane L.
Published: November 2012

Poly C binding protein 1 (PCBP1) is an expressional regulator of the mu‐opioid receptor (MOR) gene. We hypothesized the existence of a PCBP1 co‐regulator modifying human MOR gene expression by protein–protein interaction with PCBP1. A human brain cDNA library was screened using the two‐hybrid system with PCBP1 as the bait. Receptor for activated protein kinase C (RACK1) protein, containing seven WD domains, was identified. PCBP1‐RACK1 interaction was confirmed via in vivo validation using the two‐hybrid system, and by co‐immunoprecipitation with anti‐PCBP1 antibody and human neuronal NMB cell lysate, endogenously expressing PCBP1 and RACK1. Further co‐immunoprecipitation suggested that RACK1‐PCBP1 interaction occurred in cytosol alone. Single and serial WD domain deletion analyses demonstrated that WD7 of RACK1 is the key domain interacting with PCBP1. RACK1 over‐expression resulted in a dose‐dependent decrease of MOR promoter activity using p357 plasmid containing human MOR promoter and luciferase reporter gene. Knock‐down analysis showed that RACK1 siRNA decreased the endogenous RACK1 mRNA level in NMB, and elevated MOR mRNA level as indicated by RT‐PCR. Likewise, a decrease of RACK1 resulted in an increase of MOR proteins, verified by 3H‐diprenorphine binding assay. Collectively, this study reports a novel role of RACK1, physically interacting with PCBP1 and participating in the regulation of human MOR gene expression in neuronal NMB cells.
Preparation of calcium phosphate nanocapsules including simvastatin/deoxycholic acid assembly, and their therapeutic effect in osteoporosis model mice
Authors: Ito Tomoko , Takemasa Manami , Makino Kimiko , Otsuka Makoto
Published: November 2012

Objectives

Simvastatin has recently been demonstrated to serve as a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis. However, it is hard to dissolve in water and has side effects such as rhabdomyolysis. Solubilization of the drug by deoxycholate was attempted, and the resulting simvastatin/deoxycholate assembly (DeCA/Sim) was coated by calcium phosphate (CaP) to reduce the side effects of simvastatin. The aim of this study was to examine the therapeutic effects of the CaP-coated deoxycholate micelle containing simvastatin in osteoporosis model mice.

Methods

Deoxycholate micelle containing simvastatin coated by CaP (CaP-DeCA/Sim) was prepared by immersion of deoxycholate/simvastatin assembly in simulated body fluid (SBF). The therapeutic effect of CaP-DeCA/Sim on osteoporosis model mice was evaluated by X-ray computed tomography, and also its effect on other body conditions.

Key findings

The CaP coating remarkably reduced cytotoxicity in cultured cells. When CaP-DeCA/Sim was injected into ovariectomized mice, inflammation was suppressed, and led to a whole-body therapeutic effect (body weight, bone mineral content and bone mechanical strength). The deoxycholic acid/simvastatin assembly coated by CaP is thus useful for the treatment of osteoporosis.

Conclusions

Such biocompatible CaP nanocapsules including deoxycholate micelles is expected to be a novel strategy to construct an effective device for delivery of hydrophobic drugs.
Influence of hypertension on pH of saliva in older adults
Authors: Kagawa R , Ikebe K , Enoki K , Murai S , Okada T , Matsuda K , Maeda Y
Published: November 2012

Background

Hypertension and/or antihypertensive medication reportedly induce dry mouth; however, an immediate relationship between salivary flow and hypertension has not been elucidated.

Objectives

The purpose of the present study was to examine the association of hypertension and antihypertensive medication with salivary flow rate and pH in older adults.

Subjects

Subjects were independently living volunteers aged 60–78 years taking no medication (n = 138) or only antihypertensive medication (n = 27). Unstimulated saliva and stimulated saliva by the mastication method were collected, and salivary pH was measured. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure of ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure of ≥90 mmHg.

Results

There was no significant correlation between either hypertension or intake of antihypertensive medication and unstimulated or stimulated salivary flow rate. However, multiple regression analysis showed that hypertension was significantly associated with pH of unstimulated saliva after controlling for other variables (β = −0.270, P = 0.003).

Conclusion

Hypertension regardless of antihypertensive medication was related to a lower pH of unstimulated saliva. Blood pressure might be a required consideration for maintenance of oral health in older individuals.
Neutrophils alter epithelial response to Porphyromonas gingivalis in a gingival crevice model
Authors: Bondy‐Carey J.L. , Galicia J. , Bagaitkar J. , Potempa J.S. , Potempa B. , Kinane D.F. , Veillard F. , Scott D.A.
Published: November 2012

A gingival crevice model (epithelial cell–Porphyromonas gingivalis–neutrophil) was established and used to profile gingipain, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), MMP mediators [neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP‐1)] and cytokine networks. Smoking is the primary environmental risk factor for periodontitis. Therefore, the influence of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) was also monitored in the same model. Porphyromonas gingivalis alone induced low levels of interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐8 from epithelial cells, but high levels of both cytokines were produced on the addition of neutrophils. Exposure to CSE (100 and 1000 ng ml−1 nicotine equivalency) significantly compromised P. gingivalis‐induced cytokine secretion (both P < 0.05). P. gingivalis induced impressive secretion of NGAL (P < 0.05) that was not influenced by CSE. The influence of CSE on gingipain production was strain‐specific. Purified gingipains effectively and rapidly degraded both TIMP‐1 and MMP‐9. Induction of large amounts of NGAL, degradation of TIMP‐1, and increased gingipain activity would each be expected to prolong collagen degradation and promote disease progression. However, gingipains also degrade MMP‐9. Hence, P. gingivalis exerts a complex influence on the proteolytic balance of a gingival crevice model. Exposure to CSE reduces the proinflammatory cytokine burden, which may be expected to promote P. gingivalis survival. In addition to novel findings that provide mechanistic insight into periodontal disease progression, these results are in keeping with the recognized clinical dogma of decreased inflammation/increased disease in smokers. This straightforward gingival crevice model is established as a suitable vehicle for the elucidation of mechanisms that contribute to susceptibility to periodontitis.
Identification of Johnson–Cook's Viscoplastic Model Parameters Using the Virtual Fields Method: Application to Titanium Alloy Ti6Al4V
Authors: Notta‐Cuvier D. , Langrand B. , Markiewicz E. , Lauro F. , Portemont G.
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  The identification of viscoplastic material parameters is addressed using a new powerful method: the virtual fields method (VFM). Contrary to classical procedures that are statically determined, the VFM is applied to heterogeneous mechanical fields. Without any hypotheses of homogeneity required, the exploitation of tests with the VFM is not limited to small levels of strains anymore and it can be taken advantage of the large amount of information available thanks to full‐field measurements. In the case of viscoplastic models, the characterisation of strain‐rate sensitivity with the VFM is attempted in this paper using only one test under high‐speed loading conditions, whereas several tests performed at different constant strain‐rates are required for the classical procedures. This article focuses on the development of the VFM for the characterisation of Johnson–Cook's (JC) viscoplastic model. To his aim a return‐mapping algorithm was developed according to the JC's model with an implicit Euler scheme implemented to integrate the constitutive relations. The whole viscoplastic behaviour of a Titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V) is successfully characterised by the VFM using only two tensile tests on notched flat specimens, with full‐field strain measurements by digital image correlation.
Measuring the Size‐Independent Fracture Energy of Concrete
Authors: Cifuentes H. , Alcalde M. , Medina F.
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  The fracture energy of concrete is an important parameter in the analysis of the mechanical behaviour of concrete structures, so it is considered as a material property. However, the most universal test method for measuring the specific fracture energy of concrete (RILEM work‐of‐fracture) has been a subject of intense debate among researchers. The values have been found to vary with the size and shape of the test specimen. In this study, an experimental comparative analysis of the size‐independent fracture energy obtained by two main methods has been carried out. One of these is based on the local fracture energy model of Hu et al. The second is based on the curtailment of the tail of the P–δ curve by Elices et al. Therefore, the relationship between both methods is highlighted. It is shown that both methods give almost identical results.
A Study of Optimum Currency Area in East Asia: a Cluster Analysis
Authors: Ibrahim Saifuzzaman
Published: November 2012

This paper studies the feasibility of ASEAN+3 Monetary Union by investigating the homogeneities of the countries. Utilizing techniques of cluster analysis on two sets of criteria, the Optimum Currency Area (OCA) and the adjusted Maastricht Treaty (MTC), reveals that homogeneities of ASEAN+3 are low and the immediate formation of a monetary union would entail serious potential costs. Furthermore, our findings suggest that grouping differ between pre-crisis and post-crisis periods which could be due to the different impact of the crisis on the economic structure of these countries.• JEL Classification: F32, E52, F41
Labor Standards and Economic Integration in the European Union: an Empirical Analysis
Authors: Dehejia Vivek H. , Samy Yiagadeesen
Published: November 2012

This study is motivated by frequent calls to harmonize labor standards across countries, which result from the fear that economic integration (and the accompanying liberalization of trade flows) will lead to an erosion of working conditions, as countries deliberately try to reduce labor standards in order to maintain competitiveness. We empirically examine the conventional wisdom that labour standards are important determinants of trade performance and whether there has been a "race to the bottom" of standards across EU-15 countries with deeper integration. Our panel data estimates for the period 1980-2001 provide mixed evidence regarding the conventional wisdom and σ-convergence" in labor standards• JEL Classification: F10, F15, F16
The Greater Arab Free Trade Area(GAFTA): an Estimation of Its Trade Effects
Authors: Abedini Javad , Péridy Nicolas
Published: November 2012

In 1997, fourteen Arab countries concluded an agreement, aimed at achieving the Greater Arab Free Trade Area (GAFTA) by 1.1.2007 at the latest. This paper provides a first ex-post appraisal of the GAFTA agreement's trade effects. Based on new theoretical developments of the gravity equation, we estimate a panel data model which covers trade within the GAFTA area as well as with 35 other reference countries, over the period 1988-2005. Several estimators are presented, especially transformed fixed-effects, Hausman and Taylor as well as a GMM dynamic estimator. As a main finding, the calculation of gross trade creation shows that regional trade has increased by 20% since GAFTA has been implemented.• JEL Classification: F 15
The Contribution of Private Industry to Agricultural Innovation
Authors: Fuglie Keith , Heisey Paul , King John , Pray Carl E. , Schimmelpfennig David
Published: November 2012

Led by seed biotechnology, private-sector spending in agricultural R&D grew 43% from 1994 to 2010.
How Does Plant Cell Wall Nanoscale Architecture Correlate with Enzymatic Digestibility?
Authors: Ding Shi-You , Liu Yu-San , Zeng Yining , Himmel Michael E. , Baker John O. , Bayer Edward A.
Published: November 2012

One of the key challenges in scaling up biofuels manufacturing is development of a cost-effective way to break down cellulose into sugars for subsequent fermentation.

Ding
et al.

(p.
1055
) applied several different types of microscopy to understand the details of how cellulase enzymes perform this task, in the interest of ultimately optimizing the procedure. After lignin removal, fungal cellulases penetrated the remaining cellulose pore structure more efficiently than did bacteria-derived multienzyme complexes. However, this behavior hinges on a lignin extraction scheme that preserves the native architecture of the cellulose.
On the Origins of Zoonoses
Spillover
Animal Infections and the Next Human Pandemic

by David Quammen

Norton, New York, 2012. 589 pp. $28.95, C$31. ISBN 9780393066807. Bodley Head, London. £20. ISBN 9781847920102.
Authors: Streicker Daniel G. , Pedersen Amy B.
Published: November 2012

Covering a series of diseases that have moved from animals to humans, Quammen shadows researchers in the field and lab to describe their work, their findings, and their concerns.
A massive non-abelian vector model
Authors: Chishtie F.A. , McKeon D.G.C.
Published: November 2012

The introduction of a Lagrange multiplier field to ensure that the classical equations of motion are satisfied serves to restrict radiative corrections in a model to only one loop. The consequences of this for a massive non-abelian vector model are considered.
mPGES-1-derived PGE2 mediates dehydration natriuresis
Authors: Jia Zhanjun , Liu Gang , Sun Ying , Kakizoe Yutaka , Guan Guangju , Zhang Aihua , Zhou Shu-Feng , Yang Tianxin
Published: November 2012

PGE2 is a natriuretic factor whose production is elevated after water deprivation (WD) but its role in dehydration natriuresis is not well-defined. The goal of the present study was to investigate the role of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) in dehydration natriuresis. After 24-h WD, wild-type (WT) mice exhibited a significant increase in 24-h urinary Na+ excretion accompanied with normal plasma Na+ concentration and osmolality. In contrast, WD-induced elevation of urinary Na+ excretion was completely abolished in mPGES-1 knockout (KO) mice in parallel with increased plasma Na+ concentration and a trend increase in plasma osmolality. WD induced a 1.8-fold increase in urinary PGE2 output and a 1.6-fold increase in PGE2 content in the renal medulla of WT mice, both of which were completely abolished by mPGES-1 deletion. Similar patterns of changes were observed for urinary nitrate/nitrite and cGMP. The natriuresis in dehydrated WT mice was associated with a significant downregulation of renal medullary epithelial Na channel-α mRNA and protein, contrasting to unaltered expressions in dehydrated KO mice. By quantitative RT-PCR, WD increased the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), inducible NOS, and neuronal NOS expressions in the renal medulla of WT mice by 3.9-, 1.48-, and 2.6-fold, respectively, all of which were significantly blocked in mPGES-1 KO mice. The regulation of eNOS expression was further confirmed by immunoblotting. Taken together, our results suggest that mPGES-1-derived PGE2 contributes to dehydration natriuresis likely via NO/cGMP.
Towards the Epidemiological Modeling of Computer Viruses
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Yang Lu-Xing
Published: November 2012

Epidemic dynamics of computer viruses is an emerging discipline aiming to understand the way that computer viruses spread on networks. This paper is intended to establish a series of rational epidemic models of computer viruses. First, a close inspection of some common characteristics shared by all typical computer viruses clearly reveals the flaws of previous models. Then, a generic epidemic model of viruses, which is named as the SLBS model, is proposed. Finally, diverse generalizations of the SLBS model are suggested. We believe this work opens a door to the full understanding of how computer viruses prevail on the Internet.
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy Presenting with Predominant Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction: Efficacy of Bromocriptine
Authors: Ballo Piercarlo , Betti Irene , Mangialavori Giuseppe , Chiodi Leandro , Rapisardi Gherardo , Zuppiroli Alfredo
Published: November 2012

Management of patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is still a major clinical problem, as only half of them or slightly more show complete recovery of left ventricular (LV) function despite conventional evidence-based treatment for heart failure. Recent observations suggested that bromocriptine might favor recovery of LV systolic function in patients with PPCM. However, no evidence exists regarding its effect on LV diastolic dysfunction, which is commonly observed in these patients. Tissue Doppler (TD) is an echocardiographic technique that provides unique information on LV diastolic performance. We report the case of a 37-year-old white woman with heart failure (NYHA class II), moderate LV systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction 35%), and severe LV diastolic dysfunction secondary to PPCM, who showed no improvement after 2 weeks of treatment with ramipril, bisoprolol, and furosemide. At 6-week followup after addition of bromocriptine, despite persistence of LV systolic dysfunction, normalization of LV diastolic function was shown by TD, together with improvement in functional status (NYHA I). At 18-month followup, the improvement in LV diastolic function was maintained, and normalization of systolic function was observed. This paper might support the clinical utility of bromocriptine in patients with PPCM by suggesting a potential benefit on LV diastolic dysfunction.
A Green Preconcentration Method for Determination of Cobalt and Lead in Fresh Surface and Waste Water Samples Prior to Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Naeemullah  , Kazi Tasneem Gul , Shah Faheem , Afridi Hassan Imran , Khan Sumaira , Arian Sadaf Sadia , Brahman Kapil Dev
Published: November 2012

Cloud point extraction (CPE) has been used for the preconcentration and simultaneous determination of cobalt (Co) and lead (Pb) in fresh and wastewater samples. The extraction of analytes from aqueous samples was performed in the presence of 8-hydroxyquinoline (oxine) as a chelating agent and Triton X-114 as a nonionic surfactant. Experiments were conducted to assess the effect of different chemical variables such as pH, amounts of reagents (oxine and Triton X-114), temperature, incubation time, and sample volume. After phase separation, based on the cloud point, the surfactant-rich phase was diluted with acidic ethanol prior to its analysis by the flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The enhancement factors 70 and 50 with detection limits of 0.26 μg L−1and 0.44 μg L−1were obtained for Co and Pb, respectively. In order to validate the developed method, a certified reference material (SRM 1643e) was analyzed and the determined values obtained were in a good agreement with the certified values. The proposed method was applied successfully to the determination of Co and Pb in a fresh surface and waste water sample.
Capacity of forensic patients to consent to treatment
Authors: Skipworth Jeremy J , Dawson John , Ellis Pete M
Published: November 2012

Objective:

Lack of capacity to consent to psychiatric treatment has been promoted as a better basis for compulsion than mental disorder plus risk of harm. Previous research has examined how that legal change would affect acutely unwell inpatients. There is little research on forensic patients. This research aimed to assess capacity to consent in forensic patients at different stages of recovery and to consider the implications of respecting their competent treatment decisions.

Method:

Capacity to consent was assessed in a cross-sectional sample of 109 forensic patients both in hospital and in community settings.

Results:

The majority of participants (67.6%) had treatment-related decision-making capacity. Very few patients with capacity refused treatment.

Conclusions:

Change to a capacity-based legal approach may alter treatment for some forensic patients but would not necessarily increase risk of harm to others. The implications for release decisions are less clear.
Growth, history, or institutions
Authors: Bertocchi Graziella , Guerzoni Andrea
Published: November 2012

This article explores the empirical determinants of state fragility in sub-Saharan Africa over the 1992–2007 period. Our dataset includes those sub-Saharan countries for which we have information on the distribution by quintiles of the World Bank Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) ratings. We evaluate the potential influence on fragility of a wide range of economic, institutional, and historical variables. Among economic factors, we consider per-capita GDP, both in levels and growth rates, investment, natural resources, and schooling. We also consider economic policy variables such as government expenditures, trade openness, and inflation. Demographic forces are accounted for through the fertility rate, life expectancy, and the youth bulge. Institutional factors are captured by measures of ethnic fractionalization, civil liberties, revolutions, and conflicts, as well as governance indicators. Moreover, we select historical variables that reflect the colonial experience of the region, namely the national identity of the colonizers and the political status during the colonial period. Finally, we account for geographic factors such as latitude, access to sea, and the presence of fragile neighbors. Our central findings is that institutions are the main determinants of fragility: even after controlling for reverse causality and omitted variable bias, the probability for a country to be fragile increases with restrictions of civil liberties and with the number of revolutions. Before controlling for endogeneity, economic factors such as per-capita GDP growth and investment show some explanatory power, but economic prosperity displays a contradictory net impact since growth reduces fragility while investment facilitates it. Moreover, instrumental variables estimates show that per-capita GDP growth is no longer a significant factor. Colonial variables display a marginal residual influence: after controlling for all other factors former colonies are actually associated with a lower probability of being fragile.
A new two-dimensional model of rolling–sliding contact creep curves for a range of lubrication types
Authors: Fletcher DI
Published: November 2012

Experimentally determined creep curves for rolling–sliding contact in lubricated conditions are found to deviate greatly from the standard theory for two-body contact. This article presents a new model to represent coefficient of adhesion (also known as traction coefficient) and creep based on experimental data gathered for a range of railway rail–wheel contact conditions. The model developed is based on a two-dimensional elastic foundation representation of a twin disc contact. This is used to quantify the creep curves in a similar manner to existing models of three-dimensional real rail–wheel contacts undergoing partial slip for a range of lubrication conditions. The work focuses on very low levels of creep, ranging from 0 to 1%, and lubricants experienced by a rail–wheel contact in service (dry, wet, flange lubricant). Lubricants used during the simulation of low adhesion conditions for driver training (soap and water, lignin and water) are also represented. The motivation for the research is inclusion of creep-traction characteristics in an on-board system being developed for prediction of low adhesion conditions at the rail–wheel interface based upon monitoring running conditions prior to brake application.
Epigenetic therapy of hematological malignancies: where are we now?
Authors: Popovic Relja , Shah Mrinal Y. , Licht Jonathan D.
Published: November 2012

A growing amount of evidence points towards alterations in epigenetic machinery as a leading cause in disease initiation and progression. Like genetic alterations, misregulation of the epigenetic regulators can lead to abnormal gene expression. However, unlike genetic events, the epigenetic machinery may be targeted pharmacologically, potentially resulting in the reversal of a particular epigenetic state. The success of DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors represents a proof of concept for the use of therapies intended to target the epigenome in the treatment of hematological malignancies. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying the efficacy of these agents have not been completely elucidated. Recently, a large number of studies sequencing cancer cell genomes identified recurring mutations of epigenetic regulators, providing new insights into the molecular underpinnings of cancer. Consequently, the efforts to identify specific epigenetic inhibitors have been expanded in order to target particular subsets of patients. This review will summarize the progress made using the currently available epigenetic therapies and discuss some of the more recently identified targets whose inhibition may present potential avenues for the treatment of hematologic malignancies.
Novel agents in indolent lymphomas
Authors: Merli Michele , Ferrario Andrea , Basilico Claudia , Maffioli Margherita , Caramazza Domenica , Appio Lorena , Arcaini Luca , Passamonti Francesco
Published: November 2012

Indolent non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (iNHLs) include follicular lymphomas (FL), marginal-zone lymphoma, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma. First-line standard therapy in advanced, symptomatic iNHL consists of rituximab-based immunochemotherapy. The recent rediscovery of the ‘old’ chemotherapeutic agent bendamustine, an alkylating agent with a peculiar mechanism of action, has added a new effective and well-tolerated option to the therapeutic armamentarium in iNHL, increasing response rates and duration. However, patients invariably relapse and subsequent active and well-tolerated agents are needed. In recent years a large number of new targeted agents have been tested in preclinical and clinical experimentation in FL and indolent nonfollicular lymphoma (iNFL), including the new monoclonal antibodies binding CD20 or other surface antigens, immunoconjugates and bispecific antibodies. Moreover novel agents directed against intracellular processes such as proteasome inhibitors, mTOR inhibitors and agents that target the tumour microenvironment, notably the immunomodulatory agent lenalidomide, are under active clinical investigation. The development of these new drugs may change in the near future the approach to iNHL patients, leading to better tolerated and effective therapy regimens.
Health-Care Reform and the Common Good
Authors: Turner Grace-Marie
Published: November 2012

Many have criticized the United States for having restricted access to health care. This is belied by the facts that legally no one can be denied health care in the U.S. regardless of their ability to pay, and the U.S. spends as much on public health-care programs (as a percentage of the GDP) to cover one third of the population as many other developed countries spend to cover their entire population. The principle of subsidiarity states that the state should not usurp the proper functions of the individual, the family, the community, and the doctor-patient relationship. People in public health-care programs often are unable to choose the health care available to them. This undermines the person's assuming responsibility for their own care. As noted by Donald Condit, “A socialized system would increase state dependency and diminish motivation for charity.” 1 The competitive marketplace for health care in the U.S. also fuels innovation and the rapid advance of medicine. Any health-care reform must support individual freedom and rights over health-care decisions.
An Unusual Recovery following Aortic Valve Surgery
Authors: Fortuin Nicholas J. , Kulhan Darline , Gesy Lawrence J.
Published: November 2012

This case report describes the extraordinary recovery of Father Ronald Pytel from valvular cardiac disease. Father Pytel had developed severe left ventricular dysfunction and congestive heart failure from aortic valvular disease. Following aortic valve replacement surgery, his condition did not improve. Following a healing Mass on the Feast Day of Blessed Faustina Kowalska and through her intercession, he demonstrated a complete recovery. The doctors of the Sacred Congregation for the Cause of Saints voted that the sudden change from a severely damaged left ventricle of the heart to a normal functioning left ventricle cannot be explained by natural medical science. This case was used in the process of Saint Faustina's canonization.
Moral Justification and Human Acts: A Reply to Christopher Oleson
Authors: Napier Stephen
Published: November 2012

The paper is written in reply to Christopher Oleson's “Dignitas personae and the Question of Heterologous Embryo Transfer” in this issue. Oleson provides a very perceptive and comprehensive commentary on the key texts. This reply articulates my reasons for continued skepticism on whether Dignitas personae has settled the question on embryo rescue. The source of my skepticism concerns Oleson's key premise according to which heterologous embryo transfer for treating infertility and for rescue are the same moral acts. I argue that they are in fact different moral acts not merely in virtue of different intentions, but in virtue of their order. Embryo transfer is properly ordered to the end of rescue, but is inapposite for treating infertility—as this would replace the conjugal act. I conclude by offering several reductio ad absurdum arguments that argue in favor of embryo rescue.
Nurses and Care of Patients at the End of Life on the ANA Revised Position Statement
Authors: Laabs Carolyn A.
Published: November 2012

On December 4, 2009, the American Nurses Association (ANA) issued a call for public comment on a revised position statement, “Registered Nurses' Roles and Responsibilities in Providing Expert Care and Counseling at the End of Life.” The intent of this new statement is to replace the 1994 position statements on assisted suicide and active euthanasia, which clearly prohibit nurse participation in those activities. The revised position statement subtly endorses assisted suicide. Four main problems in the revised statement are addressed in this essay: a misunderstanding of the principle of double effect, the misuse of sole intent in the ANA Code of Ethics for Nurses, confusion about the meaning of conscience, and failure to recognize the primacy of human dignity. To date, the ANA's final decision on the revised statement has not been released.
Conscience, Contraception, and Catholic Health-Care Professionals
Authors: Smith Janet E.
Published: November 2012

The Church's teachings are often very challenging. Those who are involved in the health-care professions and who conduct their practices in accord with Church teaching can expect misunderstanding and even rejection from their colleagues and patients. One of the most difficult teachings of the Church is its condemnation of contraception. In 1968 Pope Paul VI issued the encyclical Humanae vitae, which hit the world like a bomb. In it he affirmed the Church's long-standing teaching on human sexuality and condemned contraception in particular. Today scientific advances such as in vitro fertilization and embryonic stem-cell research, as well as the challenges in making moral decisions about end-of-life care, make it increasingly difficult for health-care professionals to practice in accord with their deeply held moral convictions. Developing a properly formed conscience, which is the voice of God, is essential in dealing with these contemporary issues and making right choices. This essay outlines the process for properly forming the conscience. It also explains why prescribing contraception is morally wrong.
Challenges to Human Dignity in the Ecology Movement
Authors: Tham Joseph
Published: November 2012

This paper briefly traces the origins of human dignity and its present-day usage. It then points out the different philosophical, historical, and ecological currents that minimize or deny dignity. In the end, it presents a summary of a correct vision of human beings in relation to their surroundings from a Christian perspective.
Culture, Tradition, and Faith in Global Women's Health
Authors: Brady-West Doreen
Published: November 2012

The legalization of elective induced abortion which swept through many developed Western nations continues as a social and political issue in the Caribbean. Since 2005, Jamaica has been the focus of an attempt to legalize abortion, and the strategies employed bear broad similarities to those which have operated in other jurisdictions, including somewhat clandestine attempts to establish a “rights-based” approach to women's reproductive health. This intervention by non-Jamaican organizations includes two invalid assumptions: 1) A falsely inflated rate of abortions, which are illegal in Jamaica and therefore labeled “unsafe”; and 2) the role of abortion in Jamaica as a “major cause” of maternal mortality. Investigation by the Statistical Institute and National Family Planning Board invalidates both assumptions. The origin of the “rights based” approach of “full access,” initiated and sustained by international NGOs, was mediated via an “abortion consultant” closely linked to the Johannesburg Initiative, a blueprint for implementation of unrestricted abortion, and the APRAG recommendations aimed at providing de facto unrestricted abortion throughout pregnancy. This interference in national sovereignty on the part of international NGOs occurs despite surveys illustrating that the vast majority of Jamaicans (64%) specifically reject the notion of a “right” to abortion based on evidence rooted in biology, natural law and justice, women's health, sociology, and economics. The Jamaican legal protection of the unborn as an ethical and cultural norm necessitates its contextualization in a triad which equally emphasizes the stability of the family and support for women.