bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Mutilayered Microgear Using a Vertically Modularized and Sectioned Micromold System by X-ray Micromachining Process
Authors: Kim Jong Hyun , Chang Suk Sang , Lim Geunbae , Lee Bong-Kee
Published: June 2011

In the present study, a vertically modularized and sectioned micromold system (v-MSMS) is proposed and developed by synchrotron X-ray micromachining process. The developed v-MSMS is a novel concept of constructing a micromold system by stacking several micromold modules. As one representative application of the present v-MSMS, micromold system with several kinds of spur gear patterns was fabricated using deep X-ray lithography and a subsequent nickel electroforming process. Then, the usefulness of v-MSMS was demonstrated by casting the microgear with multiple layers. The proposed technique can be a useful tool for the mass replication of multilayered mechanical components, various micro parts, complicated microstructures, and so on.
Eutectic Solder Bonding for Highly Manufacturable Microelectromechanical Systems Probe Card
Authors: Kim Bonghwan
Published: June 2011

We developed eutectic solder bonding for the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) probe card. We tested various eutectic solder materials, such as Sn, AgSn, and AuSn, and investigated the bonding ability of Sn-based multi-element alloys and their resistance to chemical solutions. The Sn-based alloys were formed by sputtering, electroplating, and the use of solder paste. According to our experimental results, Sn-rich solders, such as Ag3.5Sn, Ag3.5Sn96Cu0.5, and Sn, were severely damaged by silicon wet etchant such as potassium hydroxide (KOH) and tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH). On the other hand Au80Sn20was resistant to those chemicals. In order to verify the joint bondability of the solders, we used a cantilever probe beam, and bump which were made of nickel and nickel alloy. After flip-chip bonding of the cantilever beam and the bump with Au80Sn20solder paste, we measured the contact force to verify the mechanical strength. We then re-inspected it with X-rays and found no voids in the joint.
The Nonpenetrating Telescopic Sham Needle May Blind Patients with Different Characteristics and Experiences When Treated by Several Therapists
Authors: Enblom Anna , Johnsson Anna , Hammar Mats , Steineck Gunnar , Börjeson Sussanne
Published: June 2011

Background. Little is known which factors influence the blinding in acupuncture studies. Aim. To investigate if blinding varied between patients with different characteristics receiving verum or sham acupuncture. Methods. We randomised cancer patients to verum (n = 109) or sham acupuncture (n = 106) with a nonpenetrating telescopic sham needle for nausea. Level of blinding was compared between different sub‐groups of patients using Bang′s blinding index (BI) ranged −1 to 1 (−1 = all state the opposite treatment, 1 = all identify treatment). Results. Most patients in the verum (74 of 95; 78%, BI 0.72) and the sham (68 of 95; 72%, BI −0.60). acupuncture group believed they had received verum acupuncture. The probability for a patient to believe he/she received verum acupuncture was related to the received needling type (P = .003) and to the patient′s belief in received treatment effects (P = .008). Hospital (P = .425), therapist (P = .434), previous acupuncture experience (P = .578), occurrence of nausea (P = .157), gender (P = .760), and age (P = .357) did not affect blinding. Conclusions. Blinding was successfully achieved irrespective of age, gender, acupuncture experience, treatment effect, or in which hospital or by which therapist the patient received treatment. Patients with higher belief in the effect of the treatment were more likely to believe they had received verum acupuncture.
Vibrational Study and Force Field of the Citric Acid Dimer Based on the SQM Methodology
Authors: Bichara Laura Cecilia , Lanús Hernán Enrique , Ferrer Evelina Gloria , Gramajo Mónica Beatriz , Brandán Silvia Antonia
Published: June 2011

We have carried out a structural and vibrational theoretical study for the citric acid dimer. The Density Functional Theory (DFT) method with the B3LYP/6‐31G∗ and B3LYP/6‐311++G∗∗ methods have been used to study its structure and vibrational properties. Then, in order to get a good assignment of the IR and Raman spectra in solid phase of dimer, the best fit possible between the calculated and recorded frequencies was carry out and the force fields were scaled using the Scaled Quantum Mechanic Force Field (SQMFF) methodology. An assignment of the observed spectral features is proposed. A band of medium intensity at 1242 cm-1
together with a group of weak bands, previously not assigned to the monomer, was in this case assigned to the dimer. Furthermore, the analysis of the Natural Bond Orbitals (NBOs) and the topological properties of electronic charge density by employing Bader′s Atoms in Molecules theory (AIM) for the dimer were carried out to study the charge transference interactions of the compound.
Coccophagus scutellaris(Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae): A Highly Effective Biological Control Agent of Soft Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Coccidae) in Egypt
Authors: Abd-Rabou Shaaban
Published: June 2011

About 953000 individuals of the cosmopolitan parasitoid,Coccophagus scutellaris(Dalman) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), were released and evaluated during 2009-2010 for the control of the following soft scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccidae) infesting the following economic crops in Egypt:Ceroplastes ruscion citrus in Beni Seuf,Ceroplastes floridensisComstock on citrus in Gharbiya,Coccus hesperidumL. on guava in Giza,Pulvinaria floccifera(Westwood) on mango in Sharqiya,Pulvinaria psidiiMaskell on mango in Ismailia,Saissetia coffeae(Walker) on olive in Marsa Matruh, andSaissetia oleae(Oliver) on olive in the Northern Coast. The population ofC. scutellarisshowed a significant correlation with the build up of the population of the soft scale insects population in all of the release sites studied. The maximum rate of parasitism of the other species of parasitoids associated with soft scale insects at the release sites decreased after the release ofC. scutellaris.
Low-Radiation-Dose Modified Small Bowel CT for Evaluation of Recurrent Crohn's Disease
Authors: Kielar A. Z. , Tao H. , McKeever C. , El-Maraghi R. H.
Published: June 2011

Crohn's disease affects any part of the GI tract, commonly the terminal ileum. To decrease radiation exposure we developed a low-radiation-dose unenhanced CT (modified small Bowel CT, MBCT) to evaluate the small bowel using hyperdense oral contrast.Technique. MBCT was investigated in patients with pathologically proven Crohn's disease presenting with new symptoms from recurrent inflammation or stricture. After ethics board approval, 98 consecutive patients were retrospectively evaluated. Kappa values from two independent reviewers were calculated for presence of obstruction, active inflammation versus chronic stricture, and ancillary findings. Forty-two patients underwent surgery or colonoscopy within 3 months.Results. Kappa was 0.84 for presence of abnormality versus a normal exam and 0.89 for differentiating active inflammation from chronic stricture. Level of agreement for presence of skip areas, abscess formation, and fistula was 0.62, 0.75, and 0.78, respectively. In the subset with “gold standard” follow-up, there was 83% agreement.Conclusions. MBCT is a low-radiation technique with good to very good interobserver agreement for determining presence of obstruction and degree of disease activity in patients with Crohn's disease. Further investigation is required to refine parameters of disease activity compared to CT enterography and small bowel follow through.
Pleiotropic Functions of the Organic Solute Transporter Ostα-Ostβ
Authors: Ballatori Nazzareno
Published: June 2011

The heteromeric organic solute transporter alpha-beta (Ostα-Ostβ) is expressed at relatively high levels on the basolateral membrane of enterocytes, where it plays a critical role in the intestinal absorption of bile acids and the enterohepatic circulation. However, this transporter is also expressed in nearly all human tissues, including those that are not normally thought to be involved in bile acid homeostasis, indicating that Ostα-Ostβ may have additional roles beyond bile acid transport in these other tissues, or that bile acids and their derivatives are more pervasive than currently envisioned. Emerging data from different laboratories provide support for both of these hypotheses. In particular, recent studies indicate that tissues such as brain and ovary have the capacity to synthesize bile acids or bile acid precursors. In addition, studies examining Ostα-Ostβ substrate specificity have revealed that this transporter can also accept conjugated steroids, including some neurosteroids, and that the transporter is selectively expressed in steroidogenic cells of the brain and adrenal gland, suggesting a novel function for Ostα-Ostβ. The broad tissue expression of Ostα-Ostβ is also consistent with the emerging concept that bile acids and their derivatives act as signaling molecules in diverse tissues. Bile acids activate nuclear receptors such as the farnesoid X receptor (FXR/NR1H4), the pregnane X receptor and the vitamin D receptor, are ligands for a G-protein-coupled bile acid receptor (GPBAR1/TGR5), and can also activate protein kinases A and C as well as mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. These signaling pathways are present in many tissues and regulate processes such as triglyceride, glucose and energy homeostasis. Note that although FXR and TGR5 are thought to function primarily as bile acid receptors, they are modulated by some other sterols and select lipid metabolites, and are also widely expressed in tissues, indicating a complex interplay among diverse regulatory networks that impact critical cell and organ functions. The present report summarizes the evidence for a pleiotropic role of Ostα-Ostβ in different tissues.
Molecular Mechanisms of Altered Bile Acid Homeostasis in Organic Solute Transporter-Alpha Knockout Mice
Authors: Lan Tian , Haywood Jamie , Rao Anuradha , Dawson Paul A.
Published: June 2011

Background/Aims: Mutations in the apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter (SLC10A2) block intestinal bile acid absorption, resulting in a compensatory increase in hepatic bile acid synthesis. Inactivation of the basolateral membrane bile acid transporter (OSTα-OSTβ) also impairs intestinal bile acid absorption, but hepatic bile acid synthesis was paradoxically repressed. We hypothesized that the altered bile acid homeostasis resulted from ileal trapping of bile acids that act via the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) to induce overexpression of FGF15. To test this hypothesis, we investigated whether blocking FXR signaling would reverse the bile acid synthesis phenotype in Ostα null mice. Methods: The corresponding null mice were crossbred to generate OstαFxr double-null mice. All experiments compared wild-type, Ostα, Fxr and OstαFxr null littermates. Analysis of the in vivo phenotype included measurements of bile acid fecal excretion, pool size and composition. Hepatic and intestinal gene and protein expression were also examined. Results:OstαFxr null mice exhibited increased bile acid fecal excretion and pool size, and decreased bile acid pool hydrophobicity, as compared with Ostα null mice. Inactivation of FXR reversed the increase in ileal total FGF15 expression, which was associated with a significant increase in hepatic Cyp7a1 expression. Conclusions: Inactivation of FXR largely unmasked the bile acid malabsorption phenotype and corrected the bile acid homeostasis defect in Ostα null mice, suggesting that inappropriate activation of the FXR-FGF15-FGFR4 pathway partially underlies this phenotype. Intestinal morphological changes and reduced apical sodium-dependent bile acid transporter expression were maintained in Ostα–/–Fxr–/– mice, indicating that FXR is not required for these adaptive responses.
Bile Acid Signaling in Fetal Tissues: Implications for Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Authors: Williamson Catherine , Miragoli Michele , Sheikh Abdul Kadir Siti , Abu-Hayyeh Shadi , Papacleovoulou Georgia , Geenes Victoria , Gorelik Julia
Published: June 2011

Background/Aims: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is complicated by spontaneous preterm labor, fetal anoxia and unexplained fetal death. We aim to evaluate the mechanisms by which raised fetal bile acids cause placental abnormalities and fetal cardiac pathology. Methods: The study was performed using placental samples taken from ICP pregnancies, placental explant culture, neonatal and adult cardiomyocytes, and murine and human embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. Results: Maternal cholestasis causes a placental phenotype with histological abnormalities. This can be evaluated using placental explant cultures. Taurocholate, the principal bile acid raised in the fetal compartment in ICP, causes abnormal cardiomyocyte contraction, rhythm and desynchronization of calcium dynamics. To extend our observations that the muscarinic M2 receptor plays a role in bile acid-induced arrhythmia in cardiomyocytes, we are developing a model containing mixed cell populations to represent the fetal and maternal hearts. This will be used to evaluate the underlying mechanisms to explain fetal arrhythmia in the presence of cholestasis. Conclusion: Bile acids signal via a spectrum of pathways in the placenta and the fetal heart.
Targeting Nuclear Bile Acid Receptors for Liver Disease
Authors: Trauner Michael , Baghdasaryan Anna , Claudel Thierry , Fickert Peter , Halilbasic Emina , Moustafa Tarek , Zollner Gernot
Published: June 2011

Bile acids (BAs) are able to activate a range of dedicated nuclear receptors (NRs) which play a key role in the transcriptional control of critical steps of a wide range of hepatic functions ranging from BA homeostasis and bile formation, phase I/II metabolism of endo- and xenobiotics such as BAs and drugs, respectively, to hepatic lipids and glucose metabolism. Apart from these metabolic roles, BA-activated nuclear receptors also play a key role in the control of hepatic inflammation, fibrogenesis, replication of hepatitis B and C virus, liver regeneration and carcinogenesis. As such, several physiological and pathophysiological effects of BAs can now be explained through activation of regulatory NR networks. Moreover, BA-activated NRs are key for understanding the pathogenesis of several liver diseases and represent attractive drug targets. This article will provide a brief overview on the role of BA-activated NRs in cholestatic and fatty liver disease.
New Treatment Strategies for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: Lindor Keith D.
Published: June 2011

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a progressive liver disease without adequate treatment. Because the pathogenesis of PSC is not well understood, specific therapies designed to alter the pathogenesis are not available. Animal models suggest a link between bacterial overgrowth, lipopolysaccharides from the bacterial cell walls and stimulation of endogenous TNF formation which can be inhibited by pentoxifylline. Unfortunately, in humans treated with pentoxifylline, little effect was seen. Antibiotics such as metronidazole, vancomycin, tetracycline and azithromycin in small studies show biochemical improvement. Docosahexanoic acid has been used for treating patients in a small pilot study and led to some improvement in liver biochemistries. Immunologic abnormalities have been considered to be potentially important. Attempts to treat PSC with mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus have been largely unsuccessful. Budesonide has shown a limited benefit, but perhaps more so in patients with elevated IgG4 levels. PSC is characterized by marked fibrosis. Modulation of the renin-angiotensin system as well as use of rapamycin may reduce fibrosis, but data from this approach has been scant. Bile acids have been tested, but initial doses used in primary biliary cirrhosis led only to biochemical improvement. Higher doses of ursodeoxycholic acid (28–30 mg/kg/day) seemed to be associated with a worsening outcome. Intermediate doses have been tested in a study where biochemical improvement was seen and trends towards enhanced survival were found, but only about two thirds of the anticipated enrollment occurred. Currently, there are multiple potential therapeutic avenues to explore for patients with PSC, and it is hoped that one of these will lead to identification of a proven therapy for this disease.
Biliary Bicarbonate Secretion Constitutes a Protective Mechanism against Bile Acid- Induced Injury in Man
Authors: Hohenester Simon , Maillette de Buy Wenniger Lucas , Jefferson Douglas M. , Oude Elferink Ronald P. , Beuers Ulrich
Published: June 2011

Background: Cholangiocytes expose a striking resistance against bile acids: while other cell types, such as hepatocytes, are susceptible to bile acid-induced toxicity and apoptosis already at micromolar concentrations, cholangiocytes are continuously exposed to millimolar concentrations as present in bile. We present a hypothesis suggesting that biliary secretion of HCO3– in man serves to protect cholangiocytes against bile acid-induced damage by fostering the deprotonation of apolar bile acids to more polar bile salts. Here, we tested if bile acid-induced toxicity is pH-dependent and if anion exchanger 2 (AE2) protects against bile acid-induced damage. Methods: A human cholangiocyte cell line was exposed to chenodeoxycholate (CDC), or its glycine conjugate, from 0.5 mM to 2.0 mM at pH 7.4, 7.1, 6.7 or 6.4, or after knockdown of AE2. Cell viability and apoptosis were determined by WST and caspase-3/-7 assays, respectively. Results: Glycochenodeoxycholate (GCDC) uptake in cholangiocytes is pH-dependent. Furthermore, CDC and GCDC (pKa 4–5) induce cholangiocyte toxicity in a pH-dependent manner: 0.5 mM CDC and 1 mM GCDC at pH 7.4 had no effect on cell viability, but at pH 6.4 decreased viability by >80% and increased caspase activity almost 10- and 30-fold, respectively. Acidification alone had no effect. AE2 knockdown led to 3- and 2-fold enhanced apoptosis induced by 0.75 mM CDC or 2 mM GCDC at pH 7.4. Discussion: These data support our hypothesis of a biliary HCO3– umbrella serving to protect human cholangiocytes against bile acid-induced injury. AE2 is a key contributor to this protective mechanism. The development and progression of cholangiopathies, such as primary biliary cirrhosis, may be a consequence of genetic and acquired functional defects of genes involved in maintaining the biliary HCO3– umbrella.
Molecular Phenotypes of Kidney Graft Rejection
Authors: Hribova Petra , Viklicky Ondrej
Published: June 2011

In the last decade, gene expression studies of kidney transplants provided an opportunity to better understand the development and regulation of kidney graft rejection. This review outlines the progress in the definition of biomarkers of rejection and, above all, concentrates on studies of the molecular phenotype of rejection. This phenotype, rather than morphological characterization, may be critical for assessing the ongoing processes in the graft and for the outcome prediction.
Vitamin D and Vascular Calcification in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Rodriguez Mariano , Martinez-Moreno Julio Manuel , Rodríguez-Ortiz M. Encarnación , Muñoz-Castañeda Juan R. , Almaden Yolanda
Published: June 2011

Vascular calcification is common in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and contributes to the increased rate of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms regulating vascular calcification are under investigation; it is accepted that vascular calcification is an active and complex process involving many factors that promote or inhibit calcification. Vascular smooth muscle cells undergo transformation into osteogenic cells. This transformation is being stimulated by high phosphate, and more recently the role of the calcium phosphate nanocrystals has gained attention. Experimental models of uremia and in vitro studies have shown that an excess of calcitriol accelerates vascular calcification. However, observational studies suggest that vitamin D provides a survival advantage for patients with CKD. Experimental work shows that for similar serum concentrations of calcium and phosphate paricalcitol produces less vascular calcification than calcitriol suggesting a differential effect at the cellular level. Important issues regarding the role of vitamin D compounds on vascular calcification will be commented in this review.
Sudden Cardiac Death in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Prevention Is the sine qua non
Authors: Kanbay Mehmet , Solak Yalcin , Covic Adrian , Goldsmith David
Published: June 2011

Despite developments in the technology of dialysis procedures and improvements in the understanding of systemic derangements related to chronic kidney disease (CKD), cardiovascular disease is the major cause of death. Unfortunately, the leading subset of cardiovascular disease death is sudden cardiac death (SCD). To date much effort has been exerted to figure out the clues pointing to the risk of future development of SCD in patients with CKD. However, none of these factors satisfactorily detects a truly vulnerable dialysis patient. Thus, recently, it has been advocated that a combination of noninvasive risk assessment methods, carefully chosen to reflect the different aspects of the underlying pathology and changes in the myocardial substrate in CKD, could help to identify patients at high risk of SCD within the CKD. In this review, we aimed to summarize what is known about risk stratification of patients with CKD and appropriate prevention strategies with a special emphasis on recent developments and the use of complimentary tests perhaps as a risk prediction rule.
The Management of Atherosclerotic Renovascular Disease
Authors: Adamczak Marcin , Więcek Andrzej
Published: June 2011

Atherosclerotic renovascular disease (ARVD) seems to be a common clinical condition. ARVD is clinically presented as: ‘silent’ renal artery stenosis, renovascular hypertension, ischemic nephropathy leading to deterioration of renal function and recurrent ‘flash’ pulmonary edema. Management of ARVD involves both revascularization and medical treatment. However, the impact of revascularization on kidney function and blood pressure control is a matter of great controversy in view of the results of recent randomized clinical trials. At present, concerted medical management (includes lifestyle modifications, such as smoking cessation) remains the main treatment option for patients with ARVD. However, there is a need to accurately identify individuals who may benefit from renal revascularization.
Does Uremia Cause Vascular Dysfunction
Authors: Brunet Philippe , Gondouin Bertrand , Duval-Sabatier Ariane , Dou Laetitia , Cerini Claire , Dignat-George Françoise , Jourde-Chiche Noémie , Argiles Angel , Burtey Stéphane
Published: June 2011

Vascular dysfunction induced by uremia has 4 main aspects. (1) Atherosclerosis is increased. Intima-media thickness is increased, and animal studies have established that uremia accelerates atherosclerosis. Uremic toxins are involved in several steps of atherosclerosis. Leukocyte activation is stimulated by guanidines, advanced glycation end products (AGE), p-cresyl sulfate, platelet diadenosine polyphosphates, and indoxyl sulfate. Endothelial adhesion molecules are stimulated by indoxyl sulfate. Migration and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) are stimulated by local inflammation which could be triggered by indoxyl sulfate and AGE. Uremia is associated with an increase in von Willebrand factor, thrombomodulin, plasminogen activator inhibitor 1, and matrix metalloproteinases. These factors contribute to thrombosis and plaque destabilization. There is also a decrease in nitric oxide (NO) availability, due to asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), AGE, and oxidative stress. Moreover, circulating endothelial microparticles (EMP) are increased in uremia, and inhibit the NO pathway. EMP are induced in vitro by indoxyl sulfate and p-cresyl sulfate. (2) Arterial stiffness occurs due to the loss of compliance of the vascular wall which induces an increase in pulse pressure leading to left ventricular hypertrophy and a decrease in coronary perfusion. Implicated uremic toxins are ADMA, AGE, and oxidative stress. (3) Vascular calcifications are increased in uremia. Their formation involves a transdifferentiation process of VSMC into osteoblast-like cells. Implicated uremic toxins are mainly inorganic phosphate, as well as reactive oxygen species, tumor necrosis factor and leptin. (4) Abnormalities of vascular repair and neointimal hyperplasia are due to VSMC proliferation and lead to severe reduction of vascular lumen. Restenosis after coronary angioplasty is higher in dialysis than in nondialysis patients. Arteriovenous fistula stenosis is the most common cause of thrombosis. Uremic toxins such as indoxyl sulfate and some guanidine compounds inhibit endothelial proliferation and wound repair. Endothelial progenitor cells which contribute to vessel repair are decreased and impaired in uremia, related to high serum levels of β2-microglobulin and indole-3 acetic acid. Overall, there is a link between kidney function and cardiovascular risk, as emphasized by recent meta-analyses. Moreover, an association has been reported between cardiovascular mortality and uremic toxins such as indoxyl sulfate, p-cresol and p-cresyl sulfate.
Bad Herbs—the Snake Simile in Iliad 22
Authors: van der Mije Sebastiaan R.
Published: June 2011

At the beginning of the 22nd Book of the Iliad, Hector is standing alone outside Troy, seemingly determined to fight Achilles. His parents try to prevail on him to enter Troy, but he neither answers nor complies. In the following simile (vv. 92-7), he is compared to a snake at its hole. The ensuing monologue reveals Hector’s thoughts and feelings. Close reading of the text, especially the simile, reveals that Hector’s ambivalence, which surfaces in the monologue, is already indicated by the narrator in the simile. Hector’s decision to await Achilles is irrational and he knows it. This sets it off from the decisions reached in similar ‘fight or flight’ monologues and explains why Hector’s fighting spirit breaks down under acute threat.
Trust, Diversity, and Segregation in the United States and the United Kingdom1
Authors: Uslaner Eric M.
Published: June 2011

Generalized trust is a value that leads to many positive outcomes for a society. Many analysts argue that trust is lower when we are surrounded by people who are different from ourselves. Residential segregation, not diversity is the culprit in lower levels of trust. Segregation is one of the key reasons why contact with people who are different from ourselves does not lead to greater trust. Diversity is a proxy for the minority share in a community and that: (1) segregation, especially in diverse communities, drives down trust more than diversity does; but (2) close personal ties in integrated diverse communities builds trust, but more so in the United States than in the United Kingdom, and more for majority white communities than for minorities.
Distrust and Mistrust: Lessons from a Low Trust Minority
Authors: Frederiksen Morten
Published: June 2011

The latest Danish wave of the European Values Study shows an increase in the prevailing culture of social trust. Low social trust characterises only a minority of the population. This study investigates who maintains low social trust in a Danish environment of high social trust, in comparison with the low trust majority of Austria. The study pursues the interplay between social positions and dispositions through Multiple Correspondence Analysis. Social trust is found to be stratified along an in- and exclusion axis as well as a high and low capital axis of labour market insiders. The analysis suggests a dimension of social trust concerning tolerance of the unknown along the axis of in- and exclusion. Furthermore, it suggests a dimension of social trust concerning clarity or ambiguity in the expectation of cooperation and self-utility of others. The article concludes that a differentiation of social trust in the first dimension as trust/mistrust and trust/distrust in the second dimension is helpful to further social trust research.
The Legal Recognition of Electronic Signatures in Jordan: Some Remarks on the Electronic Transactions Law
Authors: Dahiyat Emad Abdel Rahim
Published: June 2011

There is no doubt that electronic signatures play a major role in providing online parties with an effective mechanism for ascertaining one another’s identity and ensuring authenticity and integrity of the electronic message. However, such signatures will not alone be the magical joystick that will solve all security problems in the online environment. It should be noted here that the success of e-commerce also depends on the predictability and suitability of the legal framework and whether such framework offers the necessary guarantee for a secure online commerce. As such, this article will evaluate the legal reality of e-signatures in Jordan and discuss the legislative approach toward the authentication of such signatures according to the Electronic Transactions Law No. 85 of 2001. This article will further shine a spotlight on the legal recognition of certification authorities under the same law in order to examine whether this law is sufficient to regulate the manner in which e-signatures may be used and certification authorities may operate. This article, however, is not intended to provide the final answer to all questions and challenges in this regard but rather to identify the main components and provide some perspectives on how to deal with such issue.
The Constitutionalisation of Free Trade in the Gulf Cooperation Council
Authors: Puig Gonzalo Villalta , Al-Haddab Bader
Published: June 2011

The past two decades have witnessed a proliferation of Regional Trade Agreements (RTAs). This article considers the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (or Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)) as it investigates the claim that RTAs constitutionalise the norm of free trade in supranational jurisdictions. The article suggests that the GCC Member States should take several major initiatives in order to enhance and strengthen their economic integration. They must now fasten their historically slow pace of economic integration and adhere to the time frame for economic and monetary union. The GCC Member States should learn from the experience of the European Union (EU) and transfer greater levels of national sovereignty to the GCC.
The Zurkhaneh in Shiraz
Authors: Luijendijk Dick H.
Published: June 2011

The zurkhaneh is a place where the alleged indigenous martial system of Iran is practiced. Because of its strong ties to wrestling, the system is based mainly on physical strength necessary for a wrestling match. Exercises are performed to the rhythm of a hand-held drum and songs. The zurkhaneh is a living tradition, and traces of the historical context in which a particular zurkhaneh was founded are visible in its teachings. The purpose of this paper is to determine the changes, which took place in the zurkhaneh during three periods in the city of Shiraz.
A Lexical Archaism in Mazandarani
Authors: Ghanbari Mohammad
Published: June 2011

The article examines a lexical archaism meaning 'deaf' in Mazandarani (and Gilaki), fragmentary represented also in the northern area of Semnan, in Shahmirzad. It is purported to be of Eastern Iranian origin, having marginal attestations also in Classical NPers. lexicography, yet without any other occurrences in Western New Iranian.
Azerbaijan's Prospects in Nagorno-Karabakh with the End of Oil Boom
Authors: Rasizade Alec
Published: June 2011

Modern Azerbaijan is a typical Middle-Eastern petrostate ruled by a classical Middle-Eastern despotia, where political (and economic) power is concentrated and inherited within the ruling Family. Since the death of Heydar Aliev in 2003, tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan took a turn for the worse when his son, the new Azeri president Ilham Aliev, threatened to resort to force to take Nagorno-Karabakh back. Azerbaijan's recent military compact with Turkey, signed on 17 August 2010, also suggests that Baku is preparing for war. These preparations escalated in 2008 with Kosovo's declaration of independence from Serbia, recognised by the West, and Abkhazia's from Georgia, recognised by Russia, which led to fears in Baku that an unwanted precedent has been set. Azerbaijan completely depends on oil revenue in its standoff against Armenia. However, the second Baku oil boom of 2005-2013 is doomed to end in a few years without any significant economic achievement, as all the petrodollar revenue is being squandered in a construction frenzy. In these circumstances, due to its impending economic and strategic insignificance to the West after the peak of oil production in 2010, Azerbaijan needs to become more realistic in its claim to Nagorno-Karabakh as its ability to persuade the great powers is set to dwindle synchronously with the depletion of oil reserves in 2011-2019.
Redistribution and Reciprocity: A Socio-Economic Interpretation of the Parable of the Labourers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20.1-15)
Authors: Vearncombe Erin
Published: June 2011

While Matthew's parable of the labourers in the vineyard (20:1-15) is generally regarded as an analogy whereby the goodness of God is contrasted with human notions of justice and reward, when the socio-economic background of the parable is more fully taken into account, specifically the contexts of redistribution and reciprocity, it becomes clear that the parable functions on another level as well. The payment of an equal wage to all labourers regardless of time worked initiates a conflict between the landowner and the full-day workers due to the disruption of economic expectation which the equal payment represents. The parable reverses the worldly economic values of profit and self-interest and aims to demonstrate the possibility of a different kind of social obligation, one based not on debt but on more balanced forms of reciprocity.
Matthew 17.24-27 and its Value for Historical Jesus Research
Authors: Harb Gertraud
Published: June 2011

Many scholars have noted that the story of the temple tax in Mt. 17.24-27 could be attributed to the historical Jesus. This article contributes additional details in its support. After a brief discussion of the temple tax and its possible application in the Gospel of Matthew an analysis shows that the oldest pre-Matthean tradition is Mt. 17.25b-26. Next, three criteria of historical Jesus research are applied to these verses: plausibility, contrary tendency and coherence. The conclusion reached is that the saying can and should be attributed to Jesus himself. Thus, though the tax had been widely accepted in Judaism, it is probable that the historical Jesus refused the payment of the temple tax for himself and for his disciples and possibly for all Jews. Hence, the story of the temple tax should be considered and incorporated into the discussion of the historical Jesus and his attitude towards the Temple of Jerusalem.
Economic Diplomacy in a Changing World
Authors: Bleker Henk , Verhagen Maxime
Published: June 2011

This article stresses the importance of economic diplomacy in international policy-making. It elaborates on the global challenges that we face in the coming years. Solving these challenges has become complicated as a result of the rebalancing act from the West towards the East. The challenges touched upon here are issues such as the aftermath of the 2008-2009 global financial crisis, guarding the multilateral system, the decreasing power of the Netherlands, and securing food and raw materials. Solutions to these challenges can be found in increasing our understanding of our new partners and using economic diplomacy more frequently in an intelligent way.
The Economic Effectiveness of Diplomatic Representation: An Economic Analysis of its Contribution to Bilateral Trade
Authors: van Bergeijk Peter A.G. , Yakop Mina , de Groot Henri L.F.
Published: June 2011

This article empirically investigates the contribution of different forms of diplomatic representation to the bilateral trade flows (both exports and imports) of a group of 63 countries. The authors report on the construction of a data set that covers 10,524 diplomatic representations. They use these representations as one of the explanatory variables in an applied trade model (the gravity model) for 3,730 bilateral trade flows in order to measure to what extent these representations are economically effective, in the sense that they are associated with larger trade flows. The authors distinguish different forms of international representation in the field of economic diplomacy (such as honorary and career consulates, embassies and embassy branches, and trade and other offices) and find positive and highly significant effects for embassies but mixed results for the other forms of representation. Finally, the authors provide a comparative perspective on the effectiveness of the 63 countries’ foreign services and classify the countries according to the average performance of their network of foreign representations.
Hobbes on the Passions and Imagination: Tradition and Modernity
Authors: Lukac de Stier María
Published: June 2011

This article introduces the doctrine of the passions in the Hobbesian work, showing its debt with tradition, especially the scholastic Aristotelian one, even if, at the same time, it offers some breach features with this tradition, which are also analysed. In addition, the fundamentals of imagination manifest themselves in the appetitive process, in Hobbes's doctrine as well as in the scholastic Aristotelian tradition, showing their similarities and differences.
Exploring the Old French Influence on Middle English Prepositional Constructions: A Phraseological Investigation of at need and in need
Authors: Borchers Melanie
Published: June 2011

As far as the lexical influence of French is concerned Middle English has already been investigated. The present paper claims that the influence that French exerted due to the language contact situation after the Norman Conquest exceeds the impact on the English lexicon and provides evidence for the fact that phraseologisms, i.e. multi-word units, have found their way into the Middle English language, too. According to former research (cf. Nagucka, 2003: 264) prepositional constructions do “not tolerate influence or borrowing”. The present article presents two case studies of prepositional constructions that provide evidence for the contrary; i.e. an influence of Old French prepositional constructions on the Middle English phrasicon.
National unions and transnational workers: the case of Olkiluoto 3, Finland
Authors: Lillie Nathan , Sippola Markku
Published: June 2011

This article argues, through analysing industrial relations at the Olkiluoto 3 nuclear power plant construction site in Finland, that national unionism is inappropriately structured for the transnational construction industry. Olkiluoto 3 is being built by a French/German consortium employing mostly posted migrants via transnational subcontractors from around Europe. Despite the strong Finnish unions, contractors successfully contested the right of Finnish actors to regulate the site, placing labour relations in a deregulated space between national systems. Although the posted migrants eventually self-organized, Finnish unions remained unresponsive, reluctant to act outside the normal Finnish social partnership industrial relations paradigm. The case illustrates how the nationally based structure of the labour movement is ill-suited to represent a pan-European labour force.
Revealing contemporary constructions of femininity: Expression and sexuality in strip club legislation
Authors: Jackson Crystal A
Published: June 2011

This case study of Las Vegas strip club business laws explores the construction of feminine sexuality in legal discourse. Grounding textual analysis in contemporary sexuality theories, the article explores expression-based regulations that construct erotic dance as detrimental to social welfare and health, and other laws that normalize erotic dance labor as the sale of desire. I argue that expression-based ordinances stigmatize public displays of women’s (semi-) nude bodies and construct workers’ sexuality as potentially dangerous and uncontrollable. Alternatively, laws that classify erotic dance as labor construct femininity as fluid and work appropriate, regulating the work(er), not the erotic dancer as a person.
Canadianism, Americanism, NORTH Americanism: DARE AND DCHP AS DIALECTOLOGICAL RESEARCH TOOLS
Authors: Dollinger Stefan , von Schneidemesser Luanne
Published: June 2011

This article approaches two repositories of lexical items, the Dictionary of American Regional English and the Dictionary of Canadianisms on Historical Principles, as repositories of historical dialectology. Starting with a detailed comparison of the two historical dictionairies in letter T, the authors discuss and illustrate ways to tap these resources for uses for which they were originally not intended but can be fruitfully exploited. As both dictionaries were edited by teams headed by dialectologists, Frederic Cassidy and Walter S. Avis, respectively, it is not surprising that the approach outlined here seems worthwhile of pursuit not just for the historical linguist, but also for those working on various aspects of present-day North American English. After giving recommendations for the use of the two repositories for such work, the authors highlight areas for future revisions and conclude with a section on the use of social networking in dialectological research.
An Unusual Iodocyclization: An Efficient Synthesis of Pyrimidine-annelated Spiro-heterocycles
Authors: Majumdar K C , Ray Krishanu , Ganai Sintu
Published: June 2011

A simple and efficient method for the synthesis of some hitherto unreported pyrimidine-annelated spiro-heterocycles via 5-endo mode iodocyclization has been described. The reaction is an example of iodocyclization of 1,5-enynes which proceeds in the absence of base and affords the products in excellent yields.
A Sensitive Fluorescent Probe Based on a HPBI Derivative for Detecting Glutathione
Authors: Wang Qiusheng , Li Dunmeng , Liang Wenrui , Ouyang Jie
Published: June 2011

A novel, sensitive, and highly selective fluorescent probe which contains 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)benzimidazole receptor groups has been prepared for detecting glutathione (GSH) that operates under aqueous conditions. The complex of the fluorescent compound with copper(II) ion was selectively responsive to GSH and induced a recovery of blue fluorescence.
Effective Application of Heavy Fluorous Thioglycoside for Oligosaccharide Synthesis
Authors: Goto Kohtaro , Nuermaimaiti Nueramina , Mizuno Mamoru
Published: June 2011

A novel heavy fluorous thioglycoside 6 was developed and applied to oligosaccharide synthesis. The fluorous thioglycoside 6 was readily prepared via the corresponding fluorous thiol. Synthesis of the LacdiNPhth derivative was briefly achieved with a single-column chromatographic purification by using a heavy fluorous tag method. Additionally, the fluorous tag was recovered as fluorous alcohol 1 in high yield.
A Mesoporous Sulfated Zirconia–Silica Material with High Hydrothermal Stability and Acid Catalytic Activity
Authors: Yu Feng , Xu Chao , Zhang Wenbo , Guo Min , Pan Dahai , Li Ruifeng
Published: June 2011

A mesoporous sulfated zirconia–silica material with high hydrothermal stability was prepared by a two-step hydrothermal treatment process in a pH range of 1.65–3. This material still showed high surface area, large pore volume, and uniform structure after steam treatment at 800 °C for 5 h. In cumene cracking, the material exhibited relatively steady catalytic activity even after steam treatment at 600 °C for 2 h.
Synthesis and Property of Tellurium-containing Polymers Obtained by Simple Condensation Reaction of Tetrachlorotellurium and 1,3-Dimethoxybenzene
Authors: Kudo Hiroto , Ishihara Hideatsu , Tomita Masashi
Published: June 2011

Polycondensation reaction of 1,3-dimethoxybenzene and TeCl4 was performed at a feed ratio of 1,3-DMB/TeCl4 = 1/10 without catalyst in 1,4-dioxane at 60 °C for 48 h, affording poly(1,3-DMB-co-Te) with Mn = 45100 and Mw/Mn = 1.89 in 75% yield, with release of HCl. 1H NMR, IR, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy indicated that poly(1,3-DMB-co-Te) had a partially branched skeleton. This polymer had good solubility, good film-forming ability, high thermal stability, and a high refractive index (1.769 at 0.6328 µm).
Nutritional profile of asymptomatic alcoholic patients
Authors: Sobral-Oliveira Maria Beatriz , Faintuch Joel , Guarita Dulce Reis , Oliveira Claudia P. , Carrilho Flair J.
Published: June 2011

CONTEXT: Alcoholism may interfere with nutritional status, but reports are often troubled by uncertainties about ingested diet and organ function, as well as by ongoing abuse and associated conditions. OBJECTIVE: To identify nutritional and body compartment changes in stable alcoholics without confounding clinical and dietetic variables, a prospective observational pilot study was designed. Three well-matched populations were considered: subjects with chronic alcoholic pancreatitis, alcoholics without visceral disease, and healthy never-drinking adults (controls). METHODS: Subjects (n = 60) were asymptomatic males with adequate diet, no superimposed disease or complication, and alcohol-free for at least 6 months. After exclusions, 48 patients were compared. Variables encompassed dietary recall, bioimpedance analysis, biochemical profile and inflammatory markers. Main outcome measures were body fat, lean body mass, serum lipids, C-reactive protein, and selected minerals and vitamins. RESULTS: Both alcoholic populations suffered from reduced lean body mass (P = 0.001), with well-maintained body fat.Magnesium was depleted, and values of vitamin D and B12 correlated with alcohol abuse. LDL and total cholesterol was increased in alcoholics without pancreatitis (P = 0.04), but not in those with visceral damage. C-reactive protein and serum amyloid A correlated with duration of excessive drinking (P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Undernutrition (diminished lean body mass, risk of magnesium and vitamin deficiencies) contrasted with dyslipidemia and increased cardiovascular risk. This second danger was masked during chronic pancreatitis but not in alcoholics without visceral disease. Further studies should focus special requirements of this population.