bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two Groups of Documents, Relating to John Baliol, from the Vatican Archives
Authors: Cameron A. I.
Published: August 2013

The two sets of documents described below were brought to the writer's notice by a lucky chance. Monsignor Angelo Mercati, examining the catalogue of manuscripts, from the Secret Archives of the Holy See, known as Miscellaneous Instruments, noted a document concerning John Baliol, and placed it before the only representative of the Scottish nation working among the Archives at that time. Later, he discovered a second group in the set of documents which formed the old Archives of Castel Sant' Angelo. Taken together, the two sources shed some welcome light upon Scottish history, and we are greatly indebted to Monsignor Mercati for bringing them to our notice, and generously permitting their publication.

This is a parchment, written in an English hand of the late thirteenth century, and embellished with miniatures and decorated capitals. It is an annotated genealogy of the Royal House of Scotland, from David I to John Baliol, with an account of the recognition of Edward as overlord, and Baliol's subsequent letter of grievances. The text reads as follows, and we have arranged the genealogy itself in a form suitable for a printed page. Plate XIV shows its actual appearance.
Excavations at Satriano: A Deserted Medieval Settlement in Basilicata
Authors: Whitehouse David
Published: August 2013

The remains of medieval Satriano occupy the acropolis of the Lucanian town, a hilltop site 16 km. south-west of Potenza (Pl. XXVII, a). Like the Lucanian settlement, the medieval site owed its existence to the commanding position of the acropolis, which not only dominates the surrounding countryside, but also overlooks an important route between Campania and Apulia. The valleys of the Tanagro and the Platano (which together join the Sele near Contursi) and of the Basento form a corridor through the mountains from west to east, linking Salerno, Potenza and Taranto, with an alternative route from Potenza to Gravina and Bari (Fig. 1). In addition, the Melandro valley, which joins the Platano west of Vietri, passes to the south of the foot of Satriano acropolis and gives access to Brienza, Grumento and the mountain settlements of north Calabria. Finally, leaving the Salerno-Taranto route at Potenza, an easy track led northwards to Lagopesole, Melfi and the Foggia plain. While Potenza was the pivot of this network of routes, Satriano was also well placed to benefit from contact with the wealthy regions of Campania and Apulia. In an area which produced little or no iron and possessed no deposits of copper or lead, such contact was of considerable importance.
Le Stipendium des Alliés Italiens avant la Guerre Sociale
Authors: Nicolet Claude
Published: August 2013

LO STIPENDIO DEGLI ALLEATI ITALIANI PRIMA DELLA GUERRA SOCIALE

L'affermazione secondo la quale i Romani, a differenza, ad esempio, degli Ateniesi, abbiano preteso dai loro alleati italiani solo contributi in uomini per le loro operazioni militari escludendo contributi in denaro è inesatto. Testi espliciti di Polibio e Tito Livio, mostrano al contrario che gli alleati dovevano su richiesta dei Romani, fornire in una sola volta contingenti (in virtù della formula togatorum) e denaro per stipendiarli ed equipaggiarli. Questo stipendio proporzionale ai contingenti è reso permanente e proporzionale al census per le dodici colonie che si ribellarono nel 209 e furono punite nel 204. I soldati alleati non subivano trattenute sul vitto ed equipaggiamento (al contrario dei soldati romani); si può anche dire che il peso delle città alleate era leggermente più pesante di quello del Tesoro Romano. Questa situazione è durata anche dopo il 167, data in cui, come è noto, il tributo romano è stato soppresso essendo reso inutile dalle risorse proprie del Tesoro. Un testo di Appiano, due brani della lex repetundarum epigrafica e un brano delle Orazioni contro Verre mostrano molto chiaramente che, nel periodo antecedente alla guerra sociale, le prestazioni in denaro erano sempre pretese dagli alleati italiani. Quest'ultimi hanno dunque contribuito sempre più pesantemente alle spese della conquista romana, essendo in questo periodo privati dei vantaggi diretti o indiretti che questa stessa conquista procurava ai cittadini romani. Questo è certamente un fatto che contribuisce a spiegare la guerra sociale.
Monastic Decline in Sardinia: S. Leonardo di Bosue (Sassari) 1300–1401
Authors: Brown Rosalind
Published: August 2013

DECLINO MONASTICO IN SARDEGNA: S. LEORNARDO DI BOSUE (SASSARI) 1300–1401

S. Leonardo, di proprietà del convento pisano di Ognissanti, si trovava in una delle zone di maggior declino economico della Sardegna del XIV secolo. Prima della conquista aragonese, Ognissanti si affidava alla protezione dell'Arcivescovo di Torres e della influente famiglia Palas. Durante i decenni successivi, l'abbandono e l'invasione da parte dei potenti Aragonesi ridussero decisamente il valore del possedimento; questo declino può essere paragonato ai problemi che anche altrienti religiosi incontrarono nell'isola. Dopo una drastica revisione delle sue aspettative, tuttavia, Ognissanti poté mantenere il controllo di un piccolo nucleo quasi fino alla fine del secolo.
Byzantine Liguria: an imperial province against the Longobards, A.D. 568–643
Authors: Christie Neil
Published: August 2013

LIGURIA BIZANTINA: UNA PROVINCIA IMPERIALE CONTRO I LONGOBARDI,568–643 D.C.

L'invasione longobarda dell'Italia bizantina nel 568 d.C. restrinse in maniera consistente i territori imperiali costringendoli alle regioni costiere della penisola. La provincia della Liguria, rapidamente privata di legami terrestri con le altre zone imperiali sopravvissute, ha visto una rapida militarizzazione della sua amministrazione, rimedio supremo nella sua lotta per contrastare l'invasione longobarda. Sebbene solo sporadicamente documentata dalle fonti letterarie, la Liguria beneficia di una messe di dati archeologici, soprattutto in forma di repertori tipologici dettagliati da scavi urbani (fra cui Luni, Albenga e Ventimiglia), che forniscono indicazioni importanti sulle trasformazioni sociali presenti in questa fase così poco studiata. Sistemi di popolamento urbano, militare e rurale sono ampiamente esaminati e riportati all'interno di un'intelaiatura politica, militare e amministrativa della provincia e in generale dell'Italia bizantina. In particolare, molta attenzione viene data alle strutture di difesa e che contribuirono alla sopravvivenza della Liguria bizantina fino alla metà del VII seeolo d.C.
Vegetable and fruit consumption, education and plasma vitamin C concentration in Russian and Finnish Karelia, 1992–2002
Authors: Paalanen Laura , Prättälä Ritva , Alfthan Georg , Salminen Irma , Laatikainen Tiina
Published: August 2013

Objective

To examine (i) whether the consumption of fresh vegetables, fruit and berries is associated with plasma vitamin C concentration and (ii) educational differences in plasma vitamin C concentration in two neighbouring areas in Russia and Finland.

Design

Cross-sectional risk factor surveys in 1992, 1997 and 2002. Logistic regression analysis was applied to examine the associations of consumption of selected foods and education with plasma vitamin C concentration.

Setting

District of Pitkäranta in the Republic of Karelia, Russia and North Karelia, Finland.

Subjects

Adults aged 25–64 years: 579 men and 612 women in Pitkäranta; 974 men and 642 women in North Karelia.

Results

The plasma vitamin C concentration was strikingly low in Pitkäranta, Russia across the study years. During the 10 years of monitoring, the mean plasma vitamin C concentration among men ranged from 2·5 to 8·0 μmol/l in Pitkäranta, Russia and from 27·1 to 53·9 μmol/l in North Karelia, Finland. In both areas, daily consumption of fruit was most strongly associated with plasma vitamin C, while the association of fresh vegetable consumption with plasma vitamin C was less consistent. Consumption of berries was less important in explaining plasma vitamin C. In Pitkäranta, the plasma vitamin C concentration was lower among respondents in the lowest education group.

Conclusions

Differences in the consumption of fresh vegetables and fruit resulted in notable differences in vitamin C status between Pitkäranta and North Karelia in spring. In comparative settings, knowledge of local food culture and validation pilots are important before conducting large population surveys.
Food for thought: food systems, livestock futures and animal health
Authors: Wilkinson Angela
Published: August 2013

Global food security, livestock production and animal health are inextricably bound. However, our focus on the future tends to disaggregate food and health into largely separate domains. Indeed, much foresight work is either food systems or health-based with little overlap in terms of predictions or narratives. Work on animal health is no exception. Part of the problem is the fundamental misunderstanding of the role, nature and impact of the modern futures tool kit. Here, I outline three key issues in futures research ranging from methodological confusion over the application of scenarios to the failure to effectively integrate multiple methodologies to the gap between the need for more evidence and power and control over futures processes. At its core, however, a better understanding of the narrative and worldview framing much of the futures work in animal health is required to enhance the value and impact of such exercises.
Septic shock: desperately seeking treatment
Authors: Huet Olivier , Chin-Dusting Jaye P. F.
Published: August 2013

Septic shock results from the dysregulation of the innate immune response following infection. Despite major advances in fundamental and clinical research, patients diagnosed with septic shock still have a poor prognostic outcome, with a mortality rate of up to 50%. Indeed, the reasons leading to septic shock are still poorly understood. First postulated 30 years ago, the general view of septic shock as an acute and overwhelming inflammatory response still prevails today. Recently, the fact that numerous clinical trials have failed to demonstrate any positive medical outcomes has caused us to question our fundamental understanding of this condition. New and sophisticated technologies now allow us to accurately profile the various stages and contributory components of the inflammatory response defining septic shock, and many studies now report a more complex inflammatory response, particularly during the early phase of sepsis. In addition, novel experimental approaches, using more clinically relevant animal models, to standardize and stratify research outcomes are now being argued for. In the present review, we discuss the most recent findings in relation to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms involved in septic shock, and highlight the attempts made to improve animal experimental models. We also review recent studies reporting promising results with two vastly different therapeutic approaches influencing the renin–angiotensin system and applying mesenchymal stem cells for clinical intervention.
Terriglobus aquaticus sp. nov., isolated from an artificial reservoir
Authors: Baik Keun Sik , Choi Jong-Soon , Kwon Joseph , Park Seong Chan , Hwang Yeoung Min , Kim Mi Sun , Kim Eun Mi , Seo Dong-Cheol , Cho Ju-Sik , Seong Chi Nam
Published: August 2013

A pink-pigmented, chemo-organotrophic bacterium, designated strain 03SUJ4T, was isolated from the freshwater of Juam reservoir, Republic of Korea (35° 03′ 43′′ N 127° 14′ 15′′ E). Cells were aerobic, Gram-reaction-negative and non-motile rods. Strain 03SUJ4Tgrew at pH 6–7 (optimum, pH 6) and at 15–30 °C (optimum, 25 °C). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate belonged to the genusTerriglobus, showing sequence similarities of 97.09 % and 96.82 % toTerriglobus roseusDSM 18391TandTerriglobus saanensisSP1PR4T, respectively. LowrpoBgene sequence similarity with members of the genusTerriglobusand different fingerprints with the repetitive primers BOX, ERIC and REP indicated that the isolate represented a novel species of the genusTerriglobus. The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0, C16 : 0, C20 : 1ω9c, C14 : 0and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω7c/C16 : 1ω6c). The DNA G+C content of strain 03SUJ4Twas 63.2±0.1 mol% (mean±sdof three determinations). The predominant menaquinone was MK-8. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol and two unidentified phospholipids. Several phenotypic characteristics served to differentiate the novel isolate from recognized members of the genusTerriglobus. On the basis of the evidence presented in this study, a novel species,Terriglobus aquaticussp. nov. is proposed for strain 03SUJ4T( = KCTC 23332T = JCM 17517T).
Amnibacterium soli sp. nov., an actinobacterium isolated from grass soil
Authors: Jin Long , Lee Hyung-Gwan , Kim Hee-Sik , Ahn Chi-Yong , Oh Hee-Mock
Published: August 2013

A Gram-stain-positive, aerobic, non-motile, non-spore-forming, short rod-shaped actinobacterium, designated strain PB243T, was isolated from grass soil sampled in Daejeon, Republic of Korea. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence studies showed the isolate was clearly affiliated with the class

Actinobacteria

, and most closely related to

Amnibacterium kyonggiense

KEMC 51201-037T, showing 98.8 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity. Cells of strain PB243T formed yellow colonies on R2A agar, contained MK-11 and MK-12 as the predominant menaquinones, l-2,4-diaminobutyric acid as the diagnostic cell-wall diamino acid, and anteiso-C15 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0 among the major fatty acids. The acyl type of the muramic acid was acetyl. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of strain PB243T was 71.5 mol%. Thus, the combined genotypic and phenotypic data supported the conclusion that strain PB243T represents a novel species of the genus

Amnibacterium

, for which the name Amnibacterium
soli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is PB243T ( = KCTC 33147T = JCM 19015T).
Prevalence and molecular epidemiology of plasmid-mediated fosfomycin resistance genes among blood and urinary Escherichia coli isolates
Authors: Ho Pak-Leung , Chan Jane , Lo Wai-U , Lai Eileen L. , Cheung Yuk-Yam , Lau Terrence C. K. , Chow Kin-Hung
Published: August 2013

A total of 1878 non-duplicate clinical Escherichia coli isolates (comprising 1711 urinary isolates and 167 blood-culture isolates), which were collected from multiple centres in Hong Kong during 1996–2008, were used to investigate the prevalence and molecular epidemiology of plasmid-mediated fosfomycin (fos) resistance genes. Eighteen of the 1878 clinical E. coli isolates were fosfomycin resistant, of which six were fosA3 positive and two were positive for another fosA variant (designated fosKP96). No isolates had the fosC2 gene. The clones of the eight isolates were diverse: sequence type (ST) 95 (n = 2), ST118 (n = 1), ST131 (n = 1), ST617 (n = 1), ST648 (n = 1), ST1488 (n = 1) and ST2847 (n = 1). In the isolates, fosA3 and bla
CTX-M genes were co-harboured on conjugative plasmids with F2:A−:B− (n = 2), N (n = 1), F–:A−:B1 and N (n = 1) and untypable (n = 2) replicons. Both fosKP96-carrying plasmids belonged to replicon N. RFLP analysis showed that the two F2:A−:B− plasmids carrying fosA3 and bla
CTX-M-3 genes shared the same pattern. Complete sequencing of one of the two F2:A−:B− plasmids, pFOS-HK151325 (69 768 bp) demonstrated it to be >99 % identical to the previously sequenced plasmid pHK23a originating from a pig E. coli isolate in the same region. This study demonstrated the dissemination of fosA3 genes in diverse E. coli clones on multiple bla
CTX-M-carrying plasmid types, of which F2:A−:B− plasmids closely related to pHK23a were shared by isolates from human and animal sources.
“Solving Tension”: coping among Bhutanese refugees in Nepal
Authors: Chase Liana E. , Welton‐Mitchell Courtney , Bhattarai Shaligram
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The Bhutanese refugee camps of eastern Nepal are home to a mass resettlement operation; over half the population has been relocated within the past five years. While recent research suggests Bhutanese refugees are experiencing degradation of social networks and rising suicide rates, little is known about ethnocultural pathways to coping and resilience in this population.

Design/methodology/approach

A common coping measure (Brief COPE) was adapted to the linguistic and cultural context of the refugee camps and administered to a representative sample of 193 Bhutanese refugees as part of a broader ten‐month ethnographic study of resilience.

Findings

Active coping, planning, and positive reframing were the most frequently utilized strategies, followed by acceptance, religion, and seeking emotional support. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in five factors: humor, denial, behavioral disengagement; positive reframing, planning, active coping; emotional support, instrumental support; interpersonal (a new sub‐scale), acceptance, self‐blame; and venting, religion.

Research implications

Data support the relevance of some dimensions of coping while revealing particularities of this population.

Practical implications

Findings can inform future research and intervention efforts aimed at reducing suicide and promoting mental health across the Bhutanese refugee diaspora.

Originality/value

This is the first mixed‐methods study of coping in the Bhutanese refugee camp population since the start of a mass resettlement exercise. Qualitative data and ethnography were used to illuminate measured trends in local coping behavior.
Key success factor analysis for e‐SCM project implementation and a case study in semiconductor manufacturers
Authors: Hwang Bang‐Ning , Lu Ta‐ping
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The semiconductor market exceeded US$250 billion worldwide in 2010 and has had a double‐digit compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the last 20 years. As it is located far upstream of the electronic product market, the semiconductor industry has suffered severely from the “bullwhip” effect. Therefore, effective e‐based supply chain management (e‐SCM) has become imperative for the efficient operation of semiconductor manufacturing (SM) companies. The purpose of this research is to define and analyze the key success factors (KSF) for e‐SCM system implementation in the semiconductor industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A hierarchy of KSFs is defined first by a combination of a literature review and a focus group discussion with experts who successfully implemented an inter‐organizational e‐SCM project. Fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) is then employed to rank the importance of these identified KSFs. To confirm the research result and further explore the managerial implications, a second in‐depth interview with the e‐SCM project executives is conducted.

Findings

The KSF hierarchy is constructed with two levels: a top‐level consisting of four dimensions and a detailed‐level consisting of 15 individual factors. The research shows that, in the top‐level, strategy is the most critically successful dimension followed by process, organization, and technical; whereas in the detailed‐level, the top management commitment, clear project goal and business requirements, and business process re‐engineering are the top three critical successful factors.

Research limitations/implications

Research surveys and interviews were conducted with two leading companies: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and ASE; they are the largest front‐end and back‐end SM companies in the world, respectively. Although the data collected was primarily based on the experience of one successful e‐SCM project, the significant roles of these two companies and compelling contribution made by the e‐SCM project leading to the research resulted in valuable guidelines for the companies in the semiconductor industry and a useful reference for companies in other manufacturing industries.

Originality/value

e‐SCM system has a high failure rate and there is little literature discussing the KSF of e‐SCM implementation from a holistic view for certain industries. This paper not only provides a structured and comprehensive list of KSFs but also illustrates the application of the most critical factors by examples. In addition to the contributions made to industries, the research results can also serve as a foundation for related academic research when comparing the KSFs of implementing e‐SCM by different industries.
Implications of Yuan/dollar exchange rate for trade
Authors: Hilland Amy , Devadoss Stephen
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Though an undervalued Yuan is not the only factor that contributes to the US bilateral trade deficit with China, it is widely accepted as being one of the leading factors. The heightened debate over the value of the Yuan may lead to “beggar thy neighbour” retaliation. The purpose of this paper is to provide a historical review of the Y/$ exchange rate movements, review the US congressional bills to revalue the Y/$ exchange rate and Chinese Government's reactions, presents a conceptual analysis of the effect of the undervalued Yuan on trade between China, the USA, and competitors, and discuss the arguments for and against revaluation of the Yuan.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual analysis graphically illustrates how the undervalued Yuan affects world trade and shows the benefits and losses for various countries.

Findings

Though an undervalued Yuan is not the only factor that contributes to the US bilateral trade deficit with China, it is widely accepted as being one of the leading factors. Due to its effects on production, consumption, and trade, a solution is needed. Although measuring the exact misalignment of the Chinese currency has led to various results, it is generally agreed that the Yuan is undervalued, and the US Congress has been persistent in introducing various bills to tackle the problems arising from the undervalued Yuan. Arguments for and against revaluation has heightened debate which may lead to “beggar thy neighbour” retaliation.

Originality/value

This paper outlines very timely and pretentious trade issues between China and the USA and contributes to the area of research of exchange rate effects on international trade.
Advertising to Chinese youth: a study of public service ads in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Kara , Chang Hao‐Chieh
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Hong Kong youth's general attitudes toward government publicity were studied and their responses to two public service advertisements promoting green lifestyles were measured. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Thirty‐four Chinese youths in Hong Kong aged 17 to 22 were questioned about their understanding of and attitudes toward public service advertising in face‐to‐face interviews. Their opinions of two government television ads promoting “green living” were then solicited.

Findings

The interviewees described government publicity in general as credible and practical. Some liked the green living ads for their creativity but others disliked them as boring, unrealistic, irrelevant and uninformative. Recommendations are presented for designing public service campaigns that target youth.

Research limitations/implications

The results were based on a small convenience sample. More than one interviewer participated, so the results were subject to differences in interviewing techniques.

Practical implications

The study developed useful information for those organizing public service ad campaigns, especially campaigns aimed at Chinese youth.

Originality/value

This has been the first study to measure youth's attitudes toward public service ad campaigns in the Hong Kong context.
Estimating the Effect of Crime Risk on Property Values and Time on Market: Evidence from Megan's Law in Virginia
Authors: Wentland Scott , Waller Bennie , Brastow Raymond
Published: August 2013

We examine neighborhood externalities that arise from the perceived risk associated with the proximity of a registered sex offender's residence. We find large negative externality effects on a property's price and liquidity, employing empirical techniques that include a fixed‐effects OLS model, a correction for sample selection bias and censoring using a Heckman treatment, and a three‐stage least‐squares model to account for simultaneity bias in the joint determination of a home's sale price and liquidity. Additionally, we find amplified effects for homes with more bedrooms (a proxy for children) and if the nearby offender is designated by the state as “violent.”
Identification of human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐A*0201‐restricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitopes derived from HLA‐DOβ as a novel target for multiple myeloma
Authors: Kang Yoon Joong , Zeng Wanyong , Song Weihua , Reinhold Bruce , Choi Jaewon , Brusic Vladimir , Yamashita Takuto , Munshi Aditya , Li Cheng , Minvielle Stephane , Anderson Kenneth C. , Munshi Nikhil , Reinherz Ellis L. , Sasada Tetsuro
Published: August 2013

Despite the recent development of effective therapeutic agents against multiple myeloma (MM), new therapeutic approaches, including immunotherapies, remain to be developed. Here we identified novel human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐A*0201 (HLA‐A2)‐restricted cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes from a B cell specific molecule HLA‐DOβ (DOB) as a potential target for MM. By DNA microarray analysis, the HLA‐DOB expression in MM cells was significantly higher than that in normal plasma cells. Twenty‐five peptides were predicted to bind to HLA‐A2 from the amino acid sequence of HLA‐DOB. When screened for the immunogenicity in HLA‐A2‐transgenic mice immunized with HLA‐DOB cDNA, 4 peptides were substantially immunogenic. By mass spectrometry analysis of peptides eluted from HLA‐A2‐immunoprecipitates of MM cell lines, only two epitopes, HLA‐DOB232–240 (FLLGLIFLL) and HLA‐DOB185–193 (VMLEMTPEL), were confirmed for their physical presence on cell surface. When healthy donor blood was repeatedly stimulated in vitro with these two peptides and assessed by antigen‐specific γ‐interferon secretion, HLA‐DOB232–240 was more immunogenic than HLA‐DOB185–193. Additionally, the HLA‐DOB232–240‐specific CTLs, but not the HLA‐DOB185–193‐specific CTLs, displayed an major histocompatibility complex class I‐restricted reactivity against MM cell lines expressing both HLA‐A2 and HLA‐DOB. Taken together, based on the physical presence on tumour cell surface and high immunogenicity, HLA‐DOB232–240 might be useful for developing a novel immunotherapy against MM.
Genetic and environmental factors underlying the rapid changes in epidemiological and clinical features of multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica in Japanese
Authors: Kira Jun‐ichi
Published: August 2013

The discovery of a specific biomarker for neuromyelitis optica (NMO), NMO‐immunoglobulin G (IgG)/anti‐aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) antibody, requires us to take it into account when interpreting epidemiological findings on multiple sclerosis (MS). Recent genetic studies showed that HLA‐DRB1*0405 is the most common susceptibility allele for non‐NMO MS in Japanese, and that DRB1*0405 carriers comprise >40% of all Japanese MS patients. Thus, idiopathic central nervous system demyelinating disease in Japanese can be subclassified into DRB1*0405‐positive and ‐negative MS, and anti‐AQP4 antibody‐positive and ‐negative NMO. HLA‐DRB1*0405‐positive MS patients show younger age at onset, fewer brain lesions and a slower progression. The recent increase in the numbers of MS patients in this subgroup could explain the decrease in age at onset, as shown by the fourth nationwide survey in Japanese MS patients. Among HLA‐DRB1*0405‐negative MS patients, DRB1*1501 is a risk factor for MS, and DRB1*1501 carriers have high frequencies of brain lesions fulfilling the Barkhof criteria and cerebrospinal fluid IgG abnormalities. HLA‐DRB1*0405‐negative MS patients have higher frequencies of Epstein–Barr virus infection, but a lower frequency of Helicobacter pylori infection, which reflects improved sanitation in childhood. Anti‐AQP4 antibody‐positive NMO is associated with H. pylori and Chlamydia pneumoniae infections. The effects of improved sanitation on this subgroup might explain the decrease in incidence of opticospinal MS with longitudinally extensive spinal cord lesions, regarded as the same disease as NMO, as suggested by the fourth nationwide survey. Therefore, changes in environmental factors could have differentially influenced susceptibility to each disease subtype in Japanese.
Reducing youth violence related to student parties: Findings from a community intervention project in Stockholm
Authors: Ramstedt Mats , Leifman Håkan , Müller Daniel , Sundin Erica , Norström Thor
Published: August 2013

Background

During the spring of 2007, the police reported a marked increase in violence and binge drinking related to high school student graduation parties on weekday nights at restaurants in Stockholm city. This spurred a multi‐component community intervention project to reduce these problems.

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the impact of the intervention on youth‐related violence on weekday nights in 2008–2010.

Design and Method

The outcome measure entailed the number of violence‐related emergency room visits on weekday nights (10:00 pm–6:00 am) by adolescents aged 18–20 years. The study period was 1 April–31 May, which is when most student graduation parties took place. The data covered the years 2005–2010, with three data points before the intervention, and three after the intervention was introduced. Because the intervention was expected to apply to weekdays only, the control series involved a corresponding indicator pertaining to weekend nights (10:00 pm–6:00 am). The intervention effect was assessed by means of difference‐in‐differences estimation.

Results

The estimated intervention effect according to the difference‐in‐differences estimation models was a statistically significant 23% reduction of violence among young people.

Discussion and Conclusion

This type of intervention is a promising measure of preventing youth violence and deserves to be continued. Such continuation would also provide additional data required for a more conclusive assessment.[Ramstedt M, Leifman H, Müller D, Sundin E, Norström T. Reducing youth violence related to student parties: Findings from a community intervention project in Stockholm. Drug Alcohol Rev 2013;32:561–565]
Participation Structure and Incidental Focus on Form in Adult ESL Classrooms
Authors: Nassaji Hossein
Published: August 2013

This study examined the role of incidental focus on form (FonF) in adult English‐as‐a‐second‐language classrooms. Specifically, it explored the extent to which the amount, type, and effectiveness of FonF were related to differences in classroom participation structure, that is, the organization of classroom talk within which FonF may occur. The data consisted of 54 hours of audio‐ and video‐recorded classroom interaction collected over two 12‐week semesters from 35 lessons at three levels of language proficiency: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The data were transcribed and coded in terms of types of FonF (reactive vs. preemptive, and student vs. teacher initiated) and types of participation structure (whole class, small group, and individual one on one). Individualized posttests were developed and administered to each student 1 week after each classroom observation to assess the effectiveness of FonF. The results revealed that incidental FonF occurred rather frequently in all classrooms but its occurrence varied depending on the type of participation structure. The results also demonstrated a relationship between participation structure and the effectiveness of FonF as well as an interaction between participation structure and class levels. These findings highlight the role of classroom participation structure as an important contextual factor that may impact the provision and success of incidental FonF.
Nitrate‐Potentiated Head‐Up Tilt Testing (HUT) Has a Low Diagnostic Yield in Patients with Likely Vasovagal Syncope
Authors: PETIX NUNZIA R. , DEL ROSSO ATTILIO , FURLAN RAFFAELLO , GUARNACCIA VINCENZO , ZIPOLI ANDREA
Published: August 2013

Background

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is characterized by a wide spectrum of clinical presentations, but the relationship between clinical presentation and response to head‐up tilt testing (HUT) has not yet been evaluated in detail. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the clinical presentation of VVS and HUT and clinical outcome at long‐term follow‐up.

Methods

Out of 671 consecutive subjects undergoing nitroglycerin‐potentiated HUT for suspected VVS, 369 patients with normal electrocardiogram and no structural heart disease were included in our study.

Results

A history suggestive of typical or atypical VVS was obtained in 198 and 171 patients, respectively. The positivity rate of HUT was 65% and 36% in patients with established and likely VVS, respectively (P < 0.0001). In patients with established VVS, a time interval of ≤28 days between the last syncope and HUT was the only independent predictor of a positive test. In patients with likely VVS, no variable was predictive of a positive HUT. At a mean follow‐up of 43 ± 27 months, the rate of adverse events (all‐cause mortality, syncope recurrence, and major diagnostic and/or therapeutic procedures) was similar in patients of both groups, independent of HUT results.

Conclusion

In patients with likely VVS, HUT has a low‐diagnostic yield and may be inadequate to establish a reliable diagnosis. Similar long‐term outcomes were observed in patients with positive or negative test results, suggesting that HUT is of limited value in the management of patients with suspected neurally mediated syncope.
Alleviation of Zn toxicity by low water availability
Authors: Disante Karen B. , Cortina Jordi , Vilagrosa Alberto , Fuentes David , Hernández Encarni I. , Ljung Karin
Published: August 2013

Heavy metal contamination and drought are expected to increase in large areas worldwide. However, their combined effect on plant performance has been scantly analyzed. This study examines the effect of Zn supply at different water availabilities on morpho‐physiological traits of Quercus suber L. in order to analyze the combined effects of both stresses. Seedlings were treated with four levels of zinc from 3 to 150 µM and exposed to low watering (LW) or high watering (HW) frequency in hydroponic culture, using a growth chamber. Under both watering regimes, Zn concentration in leaves and roots increased with Zn increment in nutrient solution. Nevertheless, at the highest Zn doses, Zn tissue concentrations were almost twice in HW than in LW seedlings. Functional traits as leaf photosynthetic rate and root hydraulic conductivity, and morphological traits as root length and root biomass decreased significantly in response to Zn supply. Auxin levels increased with Zn concentrations, suggesting the involvement of this phytohormone in the seedling response to this element. LW seedlings exposed to 150 µM Zn showed higher root length and root biomass than HW seedlings exposed to the same Zn dose. Our results suggest that low water availability could mitigate Zn toxicity by limiting internal accumulation. Morphological traits involved in the response to both stresses probably contributed to this response.
Complete Nucleotide Sequence of Encephalomyocarditis Virus Isolated from South China Tigers in China
Authors: Liu Huimin , Yan Qi , He Hongxuan
Published: August 2013

A strain of encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), strain FJ13, has been isolated from South China tigers in China, and its complete genome has been sequenced and analyzed. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that FJ13 belongs to the EMCV-1 serotype, and it is highly prevalent in China.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL1505 beneficially modulates the immuno-coagulative response after pneumococcal infection in immunocompromised malnourished mice
Authors: Zelaya Hortensia , Laiño Jonathan , Villena Julio , Alvarez Susana , Agüero Graciela
Published: August 2013

This work evaluated the effect of orally or nasally administered Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL1505 on the resistance of immunocompromised protein-malnourished mice to pneumococcal infection. In particular, we aimed to gain knowledge of the mechanism involved in the immunomodulatory effect of L. rhamnosus CRL1505 in malnourished hosts by evaluating its impact on the immuno-coagulative response. Malnutrition significantly increased lung tissue damage caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. Lung damage was associated with a deregulated activation of coagulation and an altered inflammatory response. Pneumococcal colonization of lung and bacteremia were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) in malnourished mice receiving the CRL1505 strain. Moreover, mice repleted with supplemental L. rhamnosus CRL1505 showed the least alteration of the alveolar–capillary barrier and cell damage in lungs after the infectious challenge, especially when the CRL1505 strain was administered by nasal route. Besides, mice treated with L. rhamnosus CRL1505 showed an improved respiratory innate immune response and a lower activation of coagulation. The results of this work indicate that L. rhamnosus CRL1505 is able to beneficially modulate the inflammation–coagulation interaction after respiratory infections in malnourished hosts.
AMG 900, a Small-Molecule Inhibitor of Aurora Kinases, Potentiates the Activity of Microtubule-Targeting Agents in Human Metastatic Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Bush Tammy L. , Payton Marc , Heller Scott , Chung Grace , Hanestad Kelly , Rottman James B. , Loberg Robert , Friberg Gregory , Kendall Richard L. , Saffran Douglas , Radinsky Robert
Published: August 2013

Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignancy affecting women and ranks second in cancer-related deaths, in which death occurs primarily from metastatic disease. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a more aggressive and metastatic subtype of breast cancer that is initially responsive to treatment of microtubule-targeting agents (MTA) such as taxanes. Recently, we reported the characterization of AMG 900, an orally bioavailable, potent, and highly selective pan-Aurora kinase inhibitor that is active in multidrug-resistant cell lines. In this report, we investigate the activity of AMG 900 alone and in combination with two distinct classes of MTAs (taxanes and epothilones) in multidrug-resistant TNBC cell lines and xenografts. In TNBC cells, AMG 900 inhibited phosphorylation of histone H3 on Ser10, a proximal substrate of Aurora-B, and induced polyploidy and apoptosis. Furthermore, AMG 900 potentiated the antiproliferative effects of paclitaxel and ixabepilone at low nanomolar concentrations. In mice, AMG 900 significantly inhibited the growth of MDA-MB-231 (F11; parental), MDA-MB-231 (F11) PTX-r (paclitaxel-resistant variant), and DU4475 xenografts. The combination of AMG 900 with docetaxel enhanced tumor inhibition in MDA-MB-231 (F11) xenografts compared with either monotherapy. Notably, combining AMG 900 with ixabepilone resulted in regressions of MDA-MB-231 (F11) PTX-r xenografts, in which more than 50% of the tumors failed to regrow 75 days after the cessation of drug treatment. These findings suggest that AMG 900, alone and in combination with MTAs, may be an effective intervention strategy for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer and provide potential therapeutic options for patients with multidrug-resistant tumors. Mol Cancer Ther; 12(11); 2356–66. ©2013 AACR.
Loss of a Negative Feedback Loop Involving Pea3 and Cyclin D2 Is Required for Pea3-Induced Migration in Transformed Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ladam Franck , Damour Isabelle , Dumont Patrick , Kherrouche Zoulika , de Launoit Yvan , Tulasne David , Chotteau-Lelievre Anne
Published: August 2013

The Ets family transcription factor Pea3 (ETV4) is involved in tumorigenesis especially during the metastatic process. Pea3 is known to induce migration and invasion in mammary epithelial cell model systems. However, the molecular pathways regulated by Pea3 are still misunderstood. In the current study, using in vivo and in vitro assays, Pea3 increased the morphogenetic and tumorigenic capacity of mammary epithelial cells by modulating their cell morphology, proliferation, and migration potential. In addition, Pea3 overexpression favored an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) triggered by TGF-β1. During investigation for molecular events downstream of Pea3, Cyclin D2 (CCND2) was identified as a new Pea3 target gene involved in the control of cellular proliferation and migration, a finding that highlights a new negative regulatory loop between Pea3 and Cyclin D2. Furthermore, Cyclin D2 expression was lost during TGF-β1–induced EMT and Pea3-induced tumorigenesis. Finally, restored Cyclin D2 expression in Pea3-dependent mammary tumorigenic cells decreased cell migration in an opposite manner to Pea3. As such, these data demonstrate that loss of the negative feedback loop between Cyclin D2 and Pea3 contributes to Pea3-induced tumorigenesis.

Implications: This study reveals molecular insight into how the Ets family transcription factor Pea3 favors EMT and contributes to tumorigenesis via a negative regulatory loop with Cyclin D2, a new Pea3 target gene. Mol Cancer Res; 11(11); 1412–24. ©2013 AACR.
Extending the pharmacokinetic half-life of coagulation factors by fusion to recombinant albumin
Authors: Pipe Steven W. , Weimer Thomas , Schulte Stefan , Metzner Hubert J.
Published: August 2013

The prophylactic treatment of haemophilia B and the management of haemophilia A or B with inhibitors demand frequent administrations of coagulation factors due to the suboptimal half-lives of the products commercially available and currently in use, e.g. recombinant factor IX (rFIX) and recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa), respectively. The extension of the half-lives of rFIX and rFVIIa could allow for longer intervals between infusions and could thereby improve adherence and clinical outcomes and may improve quality of life. Albumin fusion is one of a number of different techniques currently being examined to prolong the half-life of rFIX and rFVIIa. Results from a phase I clinical trial demonstrated that the recombinant fusion protein linking FIX to albumin (rIX-FP) has a five-times longer half-life than rFIX, and preclinical studies with the recombinant fusion protein linking FVIIa to albumin (rVIIa-FP) suggest that rVIIa-FP possesses a significantly extended half-life versus rFVIIa. In this review, we describe albumin fusion technology and examine the recent progress in the development of rIX-FP and rVIIa-FP.
Classification of Contractual Agreements in Comparative and Islamic Jurisdictions: Does it Make Any Sense?
Authors: Fayyad Mahmoud
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Comparative legal systems differ in the organization of the manifestation of parties’ expressions when making legal transactions where an external action does not reflect the real intention of this party. Most jurisdictions, including Islamic law, follow the objective theory of agreements while the Conterminal legal system adopts the subjective approach. Despite the fact that many scholars spent much efforts to clarify this classification, the importance of this classification may be modest; these legal systems organize some basic doctrines, with regard to the formation of a contract (namely: the revocability of offer, the need for communication of acceptance and the rules of interoperation), in a manner that may contradict with its general theory of making agreement. In other words, the organization of these doctrines has very little significant differences in result between these legal systems. Islamic law has the same result as well. This article aims at explaining these doctrines and differences.
Analysing the Islamic Prohibition on Ribā: A Prohibition on Substance or Form?
Authors: Harasani Hamid
Published: August 2013

Abstract

This article explores the ban on usury under Islamic law, and assesses whether the ban is one of substance or form. Further, it also presents an objective test that will determine whether certain financial transactions—that aim to circumvent the ban on usury—are merely ḥiyal (legal ruses). The discussion of these issues is not a plain theoretical exercise; this type of work is necessary for financial institutions that aim to create innovative Islamic-compliant schemes without overstepping the boundaries of Islamic law.
Wukan: The Whole Story
Authors: Zhimin Zeng
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Beginning on 21 September 2011 in Guangdong Province, the Wukan Incident was, as an incident of a collective nature at the grassroots of Chinese society, in many respects something extremely rare. This can be said of the length of time for which the incident continued; the number of people who took part; the extent to which the incident was organized; the unmistakably clear interest-related and political demands involved; the thoroughly contentious nature of the incident, and its far-reaching impact. The roots of the conflict lie in disputes over collective land belonging to the village, which had already been going on for as long as 20 years, and problems with corruption involving the long-term manipulation of grassroots democratic elections by a group with common political and economic interests presided over by former Village Party Branch Secretary Xue Chang. Following the violent clash on 21 and 22 September, the self-nominated temporary villagers’ representatives formerly put their three main demands to the government: a thorough investigation of the situation pertaining to the sale and purchase of land in Wukan since the Reform and Opening; a thorough investigation into the elections for the Village Committee; transparency apropos of both village affairs and finances. After almost six months of contention between the government and the public, under the leadership of the Guangdong Provincial Party Committee, the government eventually directly acknowledged the demands of the villagers to be ‘reasonable’ and ‘legally legitimate’. Within all of this, the intervention of the Provincial Party Committee’s Task Force on 20 December 2011 was a watershed moment in transforming the Wukan Incident, exchanging contention for dialogue. At present, Wukan is facing both unprecedented and positive opportunities for development. The village is gaining a remarkable amount of political and economic resources, yet at the same time it is facing grave challenges.
The Importance of Representing Mixed-Phase Clouds for Simulating Distinctive Atmospheric States in the Arctic*
Authors: Engström Anders , Karlsson Johannes , Svensson Gunilla
Published: August 2013

Observations from the Surface Heat Budget of the Arctic Ocean experiment (SHEBA) suggest that the Arctic Basin is characterized by two distinctly different preferred atmospheric states during wintertime. These states appear as two peaks in the frequency distribution of surface downwelling longwave radiation (LWD), representing radiatively clear and opaque conditions. Here, the authors have investigated the occurrence and representation of these states in the widely used ECMWF Interim Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) dataset. An interannually recurring bimodal distribution of LWD values is not a clearly observable feature in the reanalysis data. However, large differences in the simulated liquid water content of clouds in ERA-Interim compared to observations are identified and these are linked to the lack of a radiatively opaque peak in the reanalysis. Using a single-column model, dynamically controlled by data from ERA-Interim, the authors show that, by tuning the glaciation speed of supercooled liquid clouds, it is possible to reach a very good agreement between the model and observations from the SHEBA campaign in terms of LWD. The results suggest that the presence of two preferred Arctic states, as observed during SHEBA, is a recurring feature of the Arctic climate system during winter [December–March (DJFM)]. The mean increase in LWD during the Arctic winter compared to ERA-Interim is 15 W m−2. This has a substantial bearing on climate model evaluation in the Arctic as it indicates the importance of representing Arctic states in climate models and reanalysis data and that doing so could have a significant impact on winter ice thickness and surface temperatures in the Arctic.