bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Shareholders Shouldn't Vote: A Marxist‐progressive Critique of Shareholder Empowerment
Authors: Talbot Lorraine
Published: September 2013

This paper argues that liquidity, short‐termism and low involvement in corporate governance are fundamental ingredients of shareholders’ value maximisation strategies. Neither shareholders nor their representatives will voluntarily adopt restrictions which inhibit their ability to pursue these strategies, such as those presented by the Stewardship Codes. Utilising Marxist and progressive theory this paper evidences the tendency for all capital (including shares) to seek liquidity. It presents historical evidence which shows that political policy can either restrict this tendency, as it did in the progressive and post war period, or facilitate it, as it did in nineteenth century England and in the current neoliberal period. The shareholder empowerment initiatives examined in this paper are therefore best understood as strategies to justify shareholder claims in the current crisis and to thereby protect the neoliberal status quo.
Constitutional Balance in theEUafter theEuro‐Crisis
Authors: Dawson Mark , de Witte Floris
Published: September 2013

This article analyses how the European Union's response to the euro‐crisis has altered the constitutional balance upon which its stability is based. It argues that the stability and legitimacy of any political system requires the structural incorporation of individual and political self‐determination. In the context of theEU, this requirement is met through the idea of constitutional balance, with ‘substantive’, ‘institutional’ and ‘spatial’ dimensions. Analysing reforms toEUlaw and institutional structure in the wake of the crisis – such as the establishment of theESM, the growing influence of the European Council and the creation of a stand‐alone Fiscal Compact – it is argued that recent reforms are likely to have a lasting impact on the ability of theEUto mediate conflicting interests in all three areas. By undermining its constitutional balance, the response to the crisis is likely to dampen the long‐term stability and legitimacy of theEUproject.
The Struggle for a Voice: Tensions between Associations and Citizens in Participatory Budgeting
Authors: Ganuza Ernesto , Nez Héloïse , Morales Ernesto
Published: September 2013

The emergence of new participatory mechanisms, such as participatory budgeting, in towns and cities in recent years has given rise to a conflict between the old protagonists of local participation and the new citizens invited to participate. These mechanisms offer a logic of collective action different from what has been the usual fare in cities — one based on proposal rather than demand. As a result, urban social movements need to transform their own dynamics in order to make room for a new political subject (the citizenry and the non‐organized participant) and to act upon a stage where deliberative dynamics now apply. This article aims to analyse this conflict in three different cities that set up participatory budgeting at different times: Porto Alegre, Cordova and Paris. The associations in the three cities took up a position against the new participatory mechanisms and demanded a bigger role in the political arena. Through a piece of ethnographic research, we shall see that the responses of the agents involved (politicians, associations and citizens) in the three cities share some arguments, although the conflict was resolved differently in each of them. The article concludes with reflections on the consequences this conflict could have for contemporary political theory, especially with respect to the role of associations in the processes of democratization and the setting forth of a new way of doing politics by means of deliberative procedures.
Corporate corruption of the environment: sustainability as a process of compromise
Authors: Nyberg Daniel , Wright Christopher
Published: September 2013

A key response to environmental degradation, climate change and declining biodiversity has been the growing adoption of market principles in an effort to better value the social good of nature. Through concepts such as ‘natural capitalism’ and ‘corporate environmentalism’, nature is increasingly viewed as a domain of capitalist endeavour. In this article, we use convention theory and a pluralist understanding of social goods to investigatehowthe social good of the environment is usurped by the alternate social good of the market. Through analysis of interviews with sustainability managers and corporate documentation, we highlight how organizational actors employ compromise to temporally settle disputes between competing claims about environmental activities. Our findings contribute to an understanding of the processes of empirically grounded critique and the under‐theorized concept of compromise between social goods. Rather than protecting the environment, the corporate promotion of sustainability facilitates the corruption of the social good of the environment and its conversion into a market commodity.
UNgenocide commemoration, transnational scenes of mourning and the global project of learning from atrocity
Authors: Skillington Tracey
Published: September 2013

This paper offers a critical analytic reconstruction of some of the main symbolic properties of annualUNHolocaust andRwandan genocide commemorations since 2005. Applying a discourse‐historical approach (Wodak andMeyer 2010), it retraces how themes of guilt, responsibility, evil and redemption are woven together across annual commemorative performances in the hope of stabilizing shared patterns of cultural translation of the significance of these atrocities to globally dispersed communities.UNcommemorative discourse characteristically links memories of Holocaust andRwandan trauma in a ‘chain of communication’ with those of other episodes of brutality (e.g.,Cambodia,Bosnia andDarfur) chiefly to convey the continuity of human barbarity across time and endorse certain presuppositions regarding the fate of a fallen humanity in this more ‘post‐secular’ age. As scenes of mourning,UNcommemorations unite participating international delegations in their expressions of grief for the victims of ‘preventable tragedies’ in the past but also, it must be said, their uncertainty regarding new horrors likely to occur in the future. The duty to remember is reiterated continuously as both a mark of respect to those who have already perished and as a warning of atrocities yet to unfold. This paper explores how the historical constancy of violence is interpreted by theUNthrough a detailed critical analysis of its recently inaugurated ‘remembrance through education’ programme aimed at a transnational collectivelearning from atrocity.
Strain, Kinematic Vorticity and Ductile Thinning along the Detachment Zone of the Yunmeng Shan Metamorphic Core Complex, Beijing, China
Authors: Jianbo LI , Tao WANG , Lei GUO , Ying TONG , Zhixia OUYANG , Tao ZENG
Published: September 2013

The Yunmeng Shan metamorphic core complex (MCC) is composed of the lower plate, the upper plate and the detachment zone. The detachment zone consists of ductile shear zone (mylonite zone), chloritized microbreccias zone and the brittle fault plane. The ductile shear zone contains mylonitic rocks, protomylonites, and mylonites. Finite strain measurements of feldspar porphyroclasts from those rocks using the Rf/φ method show that the strain intensities increase from mylonitic rocks (Es=0.66–0.72) to protomylonites (Es=0.66–0.83), and to mylonites (Es=0.71–1.2). The strain type is close to flatten strain. Kinematic vorticity estimated by Polar Mohr diagrams suggest that foliations and lineation of mylonite (0.47<Wk<0.85) record a bulk simple‐dominated general shearing at the initial evolution stage of the Yunmeng Shan MCC's detachment zone; and the extensional crenulation cleavage(ecc) (0.34<Wk<0.77) recorded a bulk pure‐dominated general shearing at the later stage of the evolution. Kinematic vorticity measurements also show that the Yunmeng Shan MCC detachment zone is a result of a combination of simple‐dominated general shearing caused by crustal extension at the early stage and pure‐dominated general shearing caused by MCC uplifting at the late stage. The ductile thinning estimated by finite strain measurements and estimation of Kinematic vorticity ranges from 52% to 82%, which is the minimum thining estimation. Our studies provide new evidence for mechanisms of the Yunmeng Shan MCC detachement zone.
Depigmented–polymerized mixed grass/birch pollen extract immunotherapy is effective in polysensitized patients
Authors: Pfaar O. , Biedermann T. , Klimek L. , Sager A. , Robinson D. S.
Published: September 2013

Background

Although many patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis have symptoms due to sensitization with more than one pollen allergen, and mixed pollen extracts are widely used for allergen immunotherapy in practice, there are few published trials.

Methods

We performed a 2‐year multicentre, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of subcutaneous immunotherapy with mixed depigmented–polymerized birch and grass pollen extract in 285 patients with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptomatic during both birch and grass pollen seasons. Primary outcome was combined symptom and medication score (SMS) assessed by daily visual analogue scales (VAS). Analysis included a placebo‐based analysis examining the effect of treatment only on days when placebo patients were symptomatic.

Results

There was a significant reduction in median SMS for actively treated patients (median 5.70 (interquartile range 2.62–10.02) compared with 7.07 (3.47–10.71) for placebo, P = 0.0385). Rhinitis quality‐of‐life scores were significantly better for active compared with placebo, and other secondary endpoints were not significantly different. Placebo‐based analysis showed a 33.7% reduced SMS at year 2 for active treatment compared with placebo on days when placebo patients were symptomatic. Both birch pollen‐ and grass pollen‐specific IgG4 increased with active treatment.

Conclusions

This study shows efficacy of mixed pollen extracts for immunotherapy for patients symptomatic to both birch and grass pollen allergens. The relatively modest effect may reflect 50% dose reduction for each allergen in the mixture. It supports VAS for symptom assessment and placebo‐based analysis as useful for the analysis of immunotherapy trials. The safety of modified extracts may allow study of mixed extracts without dose reduction to improve efficacy.
Cross‐border Mergers and Acquisitions and Financial Development: Evidence from Emerging Asia
Authors: Jongwanich Juthathip , Brooks Douglas H. , Kohpaiboon Archanun
Published: September 2013

This paper examines the relationship between cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and financial development in emerging Asian economies. Bilateral cross‐border M&A data for nine emerging Asian economies covering 2000–2009 are analyzed with a sample selection model and a panel data model. The estimation results show that although the banking sector still plays a crucial role in facilitating cross‐border M&A, the role of equity markets has increased in importance because, in addition to cash, the issuance of common stock and the exchange of stocks have become popular forms of payment for M&A deals. Because of the relatively thin market, the primary corporate bond market plays a limited role in supporting cross‐border M&A, which is in contrast to the primary public bond market. However, for the secondary market, the corporate bond market is more effective in facilitating cross‐border M&A. The results also show that financial development in terms of stock and bond markets in their home countries tends to become more important when the target firms reside in more developed countries. In addition to financial development, the paper shows that most cross‐border M&A are invested in technology‐related and resource‐based industries while cheap labor industries are relatively less attractive.
Lingual antimicrobial peptide and lactoferrin concentrations and lactoperoxidase activity in bovine colostrum are associated with subsequent somatic cell count
Authors: Isobe Naoki , Shibata Ayumi , Kubota Hirokazu , Yoshimura Yukinori
Published: September 2013

The present study was undertaken to examine whether potential levels of innate immune factors (lingual antimicrobial peptide (LAP), lactoferrin (LF) and lactoperoxidase (LPO)) in colostrum are associated with subsequent milk somatic cell count (SCC) in dairy cows. Quarter milk samples were collected daily for 1 week postpartum to measure LAP and LF concentrations and LPO activity. SCC in milk was determined weekly for 2 months postpartum and its correlations to concentrations of LAP and LF and LPO activity were examined. Only small variations of all immune factors were found among four udders in each individual cow, whereas there were great differences in these factors among cows. Negative correlation was detected only between LPO activity and mean and maximum SCC, whereas its relationship was not significant. LAP and LF concentrations were significantly correlated positively to mean, maximum and minimum SCC. These results suggest that the great difference in innate immune factors among animals and high LAP and LF concentrations in colostrum may be associated with subsequent high incidence of SCC increase.
Changes in estrogen receptor expression in the chick thymus during late embryonic development
Authors: Katayama Masafumi , Fukuda Tomokazu , Hatabu Toshimitsu , Narabara Kiyoaki , Abe Asaki , Kondo Yasuhiro
Published: September 2013

In chickens, although estrogen receptors (ER) are reported to be associated with the immunological processes, detailed information about the differences in ER expression in the tissues related to the development of lymphocytes is not fully known, especially during the developmental stage. To learn more about this immunological relationship, we used semi‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction method to detect the ER expression levels in the thymus tissues of chicks during the developmental stage. Furthermore, ER‐expressing cells were detected by immunohistochemistry. The results of this study show that the expression level of ER increased on embryonic day 16 and decreased on day 20. Furthermore, ER expression was significantly higher in male than in female chickens at day 16. The increased expression on day 16 and decreased level on day 20 were also reproduced in the incidence of immunoreactive cells, although there was a 1‐day delay in the elevated incidence of the cells. This study revealed the changes in ER expression and the incidence of ER‐positive cells in the thymus of chickens during the developmental stage.
Physiological changes during feeding and rumination in cows
Authors: Komatsu Tokushi , Higashiyama Yumi , Fukasawa Michiru , Katoh Kazuo , Oshibe Akinori
Published: September 2013

In this study, we investigated the physiological changes in cattle during feeding and rumination. We collected blood samples every 5 min by using an automated blood sampling system and simultaneously recorded feeding, ruminating, and other behaviors using a video camera. Plasma non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations continuously decreased during feeding and decreased temporarily during rumination. Plasma glucose concentration continuously decreased during feeding and remained stable during rumination. During feeding and rumination, there were no characteristic increases and subsequent decreases in plasma insulin and growth hormone (GH) concentrations, although insulin concentrations were positively correlated with glucose concentration. NEFA concentrations were not correlated with GH and insulin concentrations. In terms of chewing behavior, feeding and rumination are similar; therefore, the changes in metabolites such as NEFA might have been the same. Combination of behavioral observations and application of an automated blood sampling system could contribute to new findings on behavioral and physiological changes regarding the temporary decrease in plasma NEFA concentration during rumination in ruminants.
How I treat patients with relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Cuthill Kirsty , Devereux Stephen
Published: September 2013

As front line therapy has improved, the treatment of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukaemia has become more difficult as the disease becomes resistant and the patient accumulates comorbidities. The outcome for those who relapse after immunochemotherapy with fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab is strongly influenced by the duration of initial response. Patients who relapse within the first year or with a TP53 abnormality have very high‐risk disease and will not respond to chemotherapy. High dose glucocorticoid and alemtuzumab followed by an allogeneic stem cell transplant is probably the best approach for younger, fitter patients in this category. Those who relapse after 2–3 years without TP53 abnormality will probably respond to their initial therapy again. Relapse within 12–24 months carries an intermediate outlook. Additional options include bendamustine and rituximab, ofatumumab and lenalidomide. New therapies are on the horizon and patients should be discussed with a specialist centre and entered into a clinical trial whenever possible.
An accumulator model for responses and response times in tests based on the proportional hazards model
Authors: Ranger Jochen , Kuhn Jörg‐Tobias
Published: September 2013

Latent trait models for responses and response times in tests often lack a substantial interpretation in terms of a cognitive process model. This is a drawback because process models are helpful in clarifying the meaning of the latent traits. In the present paper, a new model for responses and response times in tests is presented. The model is based on the proportional hazards model for competing risks. Two processes are assumed, one reflecting the increase in knowledge and the second the tendency to discontinue. The processes can be characterized by two proportional hazards models whose baseline hazard functions correspond to the temporary increase in knowledge and discouragement. The model can be calibrated with marginal maximum likelihood estimation and an application of the ECM algorithm. Two tests of model fit are proposed. The amenability of the proposed approaches to model calibration and model evaluation is demonstrated in a simulation study. Finally, the model is used for the analysis of two empirical data sets.
Bioenergetic medicine
Authors: Swerdlow Russell H
Published: September 2013

Here we discuss a specific therapeutic strategy we call ‘bioenergetic medicine’. Bioenergetic medicine refers to the manipulation of bioenergetic fluxes to positively affect health. Bioenergetic medicine approaches rely heavily on the law of mass action, and impact systems that monitor and respond to the manipulated flux. Since classically defined energy metabolism pathways intersect and intertwine, targeting one flux also tends to change other fluxes, which complicates treatment design. Such indirect effects, fortunately, are to some extent predictable, and from a therapeutic perspective may also be desirable. Bioenergetic medicine‐based interventions already exist for some diseases, and because bioenergetic medicine interventions are presently feasible, new approaches to treat certain conditions, including some neurodegenerative conditions and cancers, are beginning to transition from the laboratory to the clinic.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Mitochondrial Pharmacology: Energy, Injury & Beyond. To view the other articles in this issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐8
Nicotinic receptor activation on primary sensory afferents modulates autorhythmicity in the mouse renal pelvis
Authors: Nguyen M J , Angkawaijawa S , Hashitani H , Lang R J
Published: September 2013

Background and Purpose

The modulation of the spontaneous electrical and Ca2+ signals underlying pyeloureteric peristalsis upon nicotinic receptor activation located on primary sensory afferents (PSAs) was investigated in the mouse renal pelvis.

Experimental Approach

Contractile activity was followed using video microscopy, electrical and Ca2+ signals in typical and atypical smooth muscle cells (TSMCs and ASMCs) within the renal pelvis were recorded separately using intracellular microelectrodes and Fluo‐4 Ca2+ imaging.

Key Results

Nicotine and carbachol (CCh; 1–100 μM) transiently reduced the frequency and increased the amplitude of spontaneous phasic contractions in a manner unaffected by muscarininc antagonists, 4‐DAMP (1,1‐dimethyl‐4‐diphenylacetoxypiperidinium iodide) and pirenzipine (10 nM) or L‐NAME (L‐Nω‐nitroarginine methyl ester; 200 μM), inhibitor of NO synthesis, but blocked by the nicotinic antagonist, hexamethonium or capsaicin, depletor of PSA neuropeptides. These negative chronotropic and delayed positive inotropic effects of CCh on TSMC contractions, action potentials and Ca2+ transients were inhibited by glibenclamide (Glib; 1 μM), blocker of ATP‐dependent K (KATP) channels. Nicotinic receptor‐evoked inhibition of the spontaneous Ca2+ transients in ASMCs was prevented by capsaicin but not Glib. In contrast, the negative inotropic and chronotropic effects of the non‐selective COX inhibitor indomethacin were not prevented by Glib.

Conclusions and Implications

The negative chronotropic effect of nicotinic receptor activation results from the release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) from PSAs, which suppresses Ca2+ signalling in ASMCs. PSA‐released CGRP also evokes a transient hyperpolarization in TSMCs upon the opening of KATP channels, which reduces contraction propagation but promotes the recruitment of TSMC Ca2+ channels that underlie the delayed positive inotropic effects of CCh.
4‐Aminoquinoline‐β‐Lactam Conjugates: Synthesis, Antimalarial, and Antitubercular Evaluation
Authors: Raj Raghu , Biot Christophe , Carrère‐Kremer Séverine , Kremer Laurent , Guérardel Yann , Gut Jiri , Rosenthal Philip J. , Kumar Vipan
Published: September 2013

A library of quinoline‐β‐lactam‐based hybrids was synthesized and tested for their antimalarial and antitubercular activities. The present antimalarial data showed the dependence of activity on the nature of linker, N‐1 substituent of the β‐lactam ring as well as the length of alkyl chain. Most of the compounds are not as efficient as chloroquine in inhibiting the culture growth of Plasmodium falciparum W2 strain. Nevertheless, the synthesized hybrids showed better antitubercular activities (up to five times) compared with cephalexin (up to three times) and ethionamide.
Crystallographic Fragment‐Based Drug Discovery: Use of a Brominated Fragment Library Targeting HIV Protease
Authors: Tiefenbrunn Theresa , Forli Stefano , Happer Meaghan , Gonzalez Ana , Tsai Yingssu , Soltis Michael , Elder John H. , Olson Arthur J. , Stout Charles D.
Published: September 2013

A library of 68 brominated fragments was screened against a new crystal form of inhibited HIV‐1 protease in order to probe surface sites in soaking experiments. Often, fragments are weak binders with partial occupancy, resulting in weak, difficult‐to‐fit electron density. The use of a brominated fragment library addresses this challenge, as bromine can be located unequivocally via anomalous scattering. Data collection was carried out in an automated fashion using AutoDrug at SSRL. Novel hits were identified in the known surface sites: 3‐bromo‐2,6‐dimethoxybenzoic acid (Br6) in the flap site and 1‐bromo‐2‐naphthoic acid (Br27) in the exosite, expanding the chemistry of known fragments for development of higher affinity potential allosteric inhibitors. At the same time, mapping the binding sites of a number of weaker binding Br‐fragments provides further insight into the nature of these surface pockets.
Using complexity theory in kinship practice
Authors: Warren‐Adamson Chris , Stroud Julia
Published: September 2013

This reflective discussion draws on data from a collaborative enquiry into kinship or family and friends practice. It introduces perspectives from complexity and chaos theory as a way of re‐examining the challenges of kinship practice. The discussion highlights the enduring challenges for practitioners, not least, managing anxiety and uncertainty, sustaining continuity and containment, becoming experienced and taking account of the complex developmental needs of the children and their families. The discussion particularly raises questions about appropriate settings for practitioners to undertake such a demanding area of child and family social work.
Anemia is a predictor of graft loss but not cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality in renal transplant recipients: follow‐up data from the ALERT study
Authors: Schjelderup Patrick , Dahle Dag Olav , Holdaas Hallvard , Mjøen Geir , Nordby Gudrun , Abedini Sadollah , Jardine Alan , Fellström Bengt , Svensson My
Published: September 2013

Background

It is well established that post‐transplantation anemia (PTA) in renal transplant recipients (RTRs) is associated with reduced graft survival. However, there is an uncertainty of the effect of PTA on cardiovascular events and all‐cause mortality. We examined prospectively in a large cohort of erythropoietin‐naive patients the effects of PTA on cardiovascular morbidity, patient survival, and graft survival.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of RTRs (n = 2102) included in the ALERT study. Cox regression models were used to evaluate the impact of PTA on study endpoints: first occurrence of a major adverse cardiac event, all‐cause death, and the incidence of death‐censored graft loss. Mean follow‐up was 6.7 yr. All endpoints were adjudicated by an independent endpoint committee.

Results

Twenty‐nine percent of women and 30% of men were anemic. Hemoglobin levels were not associated with any effect on cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (HR 0.97 [0.90–1.05] per g/dL, p = 0.48) or all‐cause death (HR 0.96 [0.90–1.03] per g/dL, p = 0.24) after extensive multivariate adjustments for clinical and demographic factors. Hemoglobin levels were negatively associated with graft loss (HR 0.86 [0.80–0.92] per g/dL, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

PTA was not associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality or all‐cause mortality.
Improved outcomes using G‐CSF‐mobilized blood and bone marrow grafts as the source of stem cells compared with G‐PB after HLA‐identical sibling transplantation in patients with acute leukemia
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐su , Chen Yao , Zhao Xiang‐yu , Liu Dai‐hong , Xu Lan‐ping , Wang Yu , Han Wei , Chen Yu‐hong , Chen Huan , Zhang Xiao‐hui , Liu Kai‐yan , Huang Xiao‐jun
Published: September 2013

This retrospective study compared the transplantation outcomes of 98 consecutive patients with acute leukemia. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was performed using G‐CSF‐mobilized bone marrow and blood (G‐BM&PB) or G‐CSF‐mobilized peripheral blood (G‐PB) from HLA‐identical sibling donors. The G‐BM&PB and G‐PB groups displayed significantly different neutrophil recovery rates (medians of 15 vs. 14 d, respectively; p = 0.009) but similar platelet recovery rates. The cumulative incidences of grades II–IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) in the G‐BM&PB and G‐PB cohorts were similar (16.2 ± 4.7% vs. 21.8 ± 7.4%, respectively; p = 0.676), but the incidences of grades III‐IV aGVHD were significantly different (5.5 ± 3.1% vs. 18.9 ± 7.1%, respectively; p = 0.042). The G‐BM&PB and G‐PB cohorts displayed similar cumulative incidences of chronic GVHD (cGVHD, 49.1 ± 5.7% vs. 42.7 ± 6.8%, respectively; p = 0.465), one‐yr cumulative incidences of treatment‐related mortality (16.5 ± 3.5% vs. 24.4 ± 4.1%, respectively; p = 0.220), and five‐yr cumulative incidences of relapse (13.9 ± 4.8% vs. 26.8 ± 7.2%, respectively; p = 0.113). The five‐yr probability of leukemia‐free survival (LFS) was significantly higher in the G‐BM&PB group than in the G‐PB group (77.8 ± 5.2% vs. 57.6 ± 8.6%, respectively; p = 0.023). Multivariate analysis identified G‐PB as an independent risk factor for grades III‐IV aGVHD and LFS. Our results suggest that HLA‐identical transplantation with G‐BM&PB results in superior clinical outcomes compared with G‐PB for patients with acute leukemia.
Keep the Faith, for Christ's Sake!
Authors: Kleinhans Kathryn A.
Published: September 2013

The central Lutheran doctrine of justification through faith served to critique the theology of the medieval Roman church but remains an important, though underutilized, theological resource today. The Lutheran emphasis on faith as trust in God's promise of mercy for Christ's sake is an important corrective to the contemporary culture of privatized faith, offering both a personal and a corporate relationship with a gracious God.
On Martin Luther's Statement, “Fides Creatrix Divinitatis”
Authors: Walter Gregory
Published: September 2013

Martin Luther's statement “faith creates divinity” depends upon the antecedent promise of the crucified and triune God. When considered as a theology of gift, this statement illustrates that faith makes divinity by giving God glory.
An Anonymous Lutheran? Can Luther's Theology Permit Salvation Outside the Church?
Authors: Mann Jeffrey
Published: September 2013

How accurate must one's religious beliefs be in order to qualify for saving faith? Is there salvation outside the visible church? How much room for error does God allow? For two millennia, Christians have struggled with these questions. Martin Luther insisted on a very precise understanding of the gospel for the reception of God's grace, leaving the vast majority of humanity without any possibility of entering the kingdom of heaven. This obviously has troubled a great many of his theological progeny. While his theology appears to demand such narrow parameters for the faithful, the author maintains that it is possible to retain Lutheran orthodoxy and posit salvation outside the visible church.
β‐Cell inflammation in human type 2 diabetes and the role of autophagy
Authors: Marselli L. , Bugliani M. , Suleiman M. , Olimpico F. , Masini M. , Petrini M. , Boggi U. , Filipponi F. , Syed F. , Marchetti P.
Published: September 2013

β‐Cell failure is crucial for the onset and progression of human type 2 diabetes, and a few studies have suggested that inflammation may play a role. Immune cell infiltration has been reported in subpopulations of islets in some cases of human type 2 diabetes, and altered gene expression of a few cytokines and chemokines has been observed in isolated islets and laser captured β‐cells from diabetic subjects. Recent observations on the links between inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy are putting the focus on the possibility that modulating the autophagic processes could protect the β‐cells from cytotoxicity induced by inflammatory mediators.
Infectious triggers in type 1 diabetes: is there a case for epitope mimicry?
Authors: Afonso G. , Mallone R.
Published: September 2013

Environmental factors are the main contributors to type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis, yet they remain unidentified. Enteroviruses are proposed candidate triggers due to temporal correlations between infection and T1D autoimmunity and to detection of viral proteins in diseased islets. However, such correlations are not universal and may be relatively uncommon. Furthermore, evidence of a cause–effect relationship is lacking, as infection of non‐obese diabetic mice with Coxsackie enteroviruses can either trigger or blunt disease. The proposed mechanisms are either non‐antigen‐specific (i.e. β‐cell destruction and release of sequestered antigens, islet inflammation) or antigen‐specific (i.e. epitope mimicry, by which immune responses to enteroviruses may be diverted against homologous β‐cell antigens). The case for the latter mechanisms is even less stringent, as there is little evidence of promiscuous antigen recognition at the single T‐cell level. Other infectious agents may thus be implicated. Demonstration of their role will require fulfilling the Koch's postulates, namely isolation of the agent preferentially in T1D patients, including before disease onset; and T1D induction when the agent is inoculated into mice. The same is needed for cross‐reactive T cells to support epitope mimicry mechanisms. Generation of alternative (humanized) mouse models that could be challenged with candidate microbes is needed.
Macrophages and islet inflammation in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Eguchi K. , Manabe I.
Published: September 2013

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion from pancreatic β‐cells. Inflammatory cytokines, including tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), have been shown to promote insulin resistance, and altered expression of cytokines (adipokines) in obese adipose tissue is thought to be an important link between obesity and insulin resistance. It is also becoming clear that inflammation plays a key role in the development of β‐cell dysfunction. Inflammatory changes, including accumulation of macrophages, have been documented in T2D islets. Moreover, therapeutic inhibition of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) ameliorates β‐cell dysfunction in humans. This review summarizes current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying inflammation within islets and its relation to β‐cell dysfunction in T2D. A particular focus is on the physiological and pathological functions of macrophages within islets.
The importance of NAMPT/NAD/SIRT1 in the systemic regulation of metabolism and ageing
Authors: Imai S. , Yoshino J.
Published: September 2013

Ageing is associated with a variety of pathophysiological changes, including development of insulin resistance, progressive decline in β‐cell function and chronic inflammation, all of which affect metabolic homeostasis in response to nutritional and environmental stimuli. SIRT1, the mammalian nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD)‐dependent protein deacetylase, and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), the rate‐limiting NAD biosynthetic enzyme, together comprise a novel systemic regulatory network, named the ‘NAD World’, that orchestrates physiological responses to internal and external perturbations and maintains the robustness of the physiological system in mammals. In the past decade, an accumulating body of evidence has demonstrated that SIRT1 and NAMPT, two essential components in the NAD World, play a critical role in regulating insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion throughout the body. In this article, we will summarize the physiological significance of SIRT1 and NAMPT‐mediated NAD biosynthesis in metabolic regulation and discuss the ideas of functional hierarchy and frailty in determining the robustness of the system. We will also discuss the potential of key NAD intermediates as effective nutriceuticals for the prevention and the treatment of age‐associated metabolic complications, such as type 2 diabetes.
Knowledge and attitude of Saudi teachers of students with attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder towards traumatic dental injuries
Authors: Pani Sharat Chandra , Hillis Hannan , Chaballout Tasneem , Al Enazi Wedad , AlAttar Youmna , Aboramadan Mona
Published: September 2013

Background and Aim

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood mental disorders that manifest with difficulties in staying focused and hyperactivity. Such children have been reported to have a higher incidence of traumatic dental injuries. The aim of this article was to study the knowledge and attitude of Saudi teachers of children with ADHD towards the management of traumatic dental injuries and compare them to their counterparts in mainstream schools.

Material and Methods

A four‐part structured Arabic questionnaire was administered to 281 teachers of children with ADHD and 384 teachers in mainstream schools. The questionnaire recorded the demographic data, type of children taught, experience of the teacher in dealing with traumatic dental injuries, the teachers' perceived importance of managing traumatic dental injuries and their knowledge of emergency management of these injuries. The difference in knowledge and attitude between teachers of mainstream schools and schools for children with ADHD was assessed.

Results and Conclusions

The results of the study indicate that teachers of children with ADHD have a greater experience of witnessing traumatic dental injuries and place significantly more importance towards the management of these injuries than their counterparts in mainstream schools. The influence of demographic variables on knowledge seen in teachers from mainstream schools is absent in those teaching children with ADHD.
Responsiveness of cytogenetically discrete human myeloma cell lines to lenalidomide: lack of correlation with cereblon and interferon regulatory factor 4 expression levels
Authors: Greenberg Alexandra J. , Walters Denise K. , Kumar Shaji K. , Vincent Rajkumar S. , Jelinek Diane F.
Published: September 2013

The introduction of novel immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) has dramatically improved the survival of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). While it has been shown that patients with specific cytogenetic subtypes, namely t(4;14), have the best outcomes when treated with bortezomib‐based regimens, the relationship between cytogenetic subtypes and response to IMiDs remains unclear. Using DNA synthesis assays, we investigated the relationship between cytogenetic subtype and lenalidomide response in a representative panel of human myeloma cell lines (HMCLs). We examined HMCL protein expression levels of the lenalidomide target cereblon (CRBN) and its downstream target interferon regulatory factor‐4 (IRF4), which have previously been shown to be predictive of lenalidomide response in HMCLs. Our results reveal that lenalidomide response did not correlate with specific cytogenetic translocations. There were distinct groups of lenalidomide‐responsive and non‐responsive HMCLs, as defined by inhibition of cellular proliferation; notably, all of the hyperdiploid HMCLs fell into the latter category. Repeated dosing of lenalidomide significantly lowered the IC50 of the responsive HMCL ALMC‐1 (IC50 = 2.6 μm vs. 0.005 μm, P < 0.0001), but did not have an effect on the IC50 of the non‐responsive DP‐6 HMCL (P > 0.05). Moreover, no association was found between lenalidomide responsiveness and CRBN and IRF4 expression. Our data indicate that lenalidomide sensitivity is independent of cytogenetic subtype in HMCLs. While CRBN and IRF4 have been shown to be associated with response to lenalidomide in patients, these findings do not translate back to HMCLs, which could be attributable to factors present in the bone marrow microenvironment.
Biochar–root interactions are mediated by biochar nutrient content and impacts on soil nutrient availability
Authors: Prendergast‐Miller M. T. , Duvall M. , Sohi S. P.
Published: September 2013

Roots are the first point of contact between biochar particles and growing plants, yet detailed studies of biochar–root interactions are few. Biochar may affect root growth, and therefore plant performance, through two mechanisms: (i) as a direct nutrient source and (ii) through impacts on nutrient availability. To test the hypothesis that biochar–root interactions occur and are determined by biochar nutrient supply and impacts on soil nutrients, spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was grown with and without biochar addition in rhizobox mesocosms. Biochar from unaltered and artificially weathered Miscanthus or willow (Salix sp) biochar types was used and was manipulated to alter its structure and nutrient content. After 28 days of plant growth, biochar nutrient content, soil nutrient content and the amount of biochar were measured in the bulk soil, the rhizosphere and the rhizosheath. Plants in biochar‐amended soils had larger rhizosphere zones than the control treatment. The rhizosphere contained more biochar particles than the bulk soil, an indication that roots preferred soil containing biochar particles. Biochar particles retained soil nitrogen (N) in the form of nitrate, and also supplied phosphorus (P) to the soil and plant. Miscanthus biochar had a larger extractable P content than the Salix biochar, with different effects on plant growth and root responses. Although artificial physical weathering had no effect on overall plant growth, weathering effects on N retention and P content were dependent on biochar type. Our results indicate that roots are attracted towards biochar, resulting in its partitioning between bulk and rhizosphere soil. Biochar thus controls plant root nutrient acquisition directly as a nutrient source and indirectly by altering soil nutrient content.
Impact of biochar addition on water retention, nitrification and carbon dioxide evolution from two sandy loam soils
Authors: Ulyett J. , Sakrabani R. , Kibblewhite M. , Hann M.
Published: September 2013

Some intensive agricultural practices result in soil degradation through loss of soil organic matter. Organic farming may mitigate this problem, if managed properly, but may result in a yield penalty compared with conventional systems. Biochar addition to soil could influence both agricultural systems, but previous studies are not definitive about its impact on soil processes. Sandy soils are more susceptible to the effects of reduced soil organic matter on soil hydrology and nutrient dynamics. Nitrogen (N) is important for crop growth and soil water content can influence its transformation and cycling. This study explored the effect of biochar amendment on soil water retention and nitrification processes in soils under organic and conventional management. Carbon dioxide evolution was used as an indicator of related microbial activity. A water release curve study and a 60‐day incubation experiment were set up to consider the effect of biochar application on organically and conventionally managed sandy loam soils. The results showed that addition of biochar increased water retention for both soils and this is attributed to its porous structure. On incubation of an organically managed soil, with green‐waste compost, initial ammonium level was small, reflecting microbial demand for N. The large cation exchange capacity of the organically managed soil retained ammonium, reducing availability for nitrification. Carbon dioxide evolution increased with continuing small contents of ammonium and nitrate when biochar was added to the organically managed soil. Biochar enhanced nitrification without increased respiration during incubation of a conventionally managed soil with added mineral N; a possible explanation for this enhancement is the increase in pH resulting from the biochar addition.
Debates: The Aggressive Spillover Hypothesis: Existing Ailments and Putative Remedies
Authors: Pruitt Jonathan N. , Keiser Carl N.
Published: September 2013

The aggressive spillover hypothesis posits that precopulatory sexual cannibalism could evolve as a byproduct of directional selection on aggressiveness in a foraging context. In this debates piece we consider the critique of Kralj‐Fišer and collaborators on the existing evidence in favor of the aggressive spillover hypothesis. Like Kralj‐Fišer et al., we are of the opinion that the evidence in favor of the aggressive spillover hypothesis is still fairly weak. Despite this fact, the hypothesis remains one of the most widely celebrated examples of how behavioral syndromes can generate adaptive trade‐offs. We describe herein several opportunities to build upon the existing data in favor of the aggressive spillover hypothesis and more critically evaluate its assumptions and predictions.
Debates: Challenging a Recent Challenge to the Aggressive Spillover Hypothesis
Authors: Johnson James Chadwick
Published: September 2013

Kralj‐Fiser et al. recently reviewed the lack of evidence in favor of the aggressive spillover hypothesis, an animal personality/behavioral syndrome explanation for pre‐copulatory sexual cannibalism. In doing so, they evaluated past tests of the hypothesis, set forth their ideas for criteria that need to be met to accept the spillover hypothesis, and conclude that the hypothesis is not generally supported. Here, I comment on several aspects of their position. In doing so, I identify areas in which we differ and point out several strengths of past tests of the spillover hypothesis. In particular, I suggest that researchers testing the spillover hypothesis have done an excellent job of studying sexual cannibalism in the broader context of a movement within behavioral ecology to understand where an animal's behavior falls along a continuum of plasticity.
Computed tomographic features of apical infection of equine maxillary cheek teeth: A retrospective study of 49 horses
Authors: Bühler M. , Fürst A. , Lewis F. I. , Kummer M. , Ohlerth S.
Published: September 2013

Reasons for performing study

Computed tomographic (CT) studies evaluating the relevance of individual CT features of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth are lacking.

Objectives

To study the prevalence and relationship of single CT features in horses with and without clinical evidence of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth.

Study design

Retrospective case–control study.

Methods

Multislice CT scans of the head of 49 horses were evaluated retrospectively. Changes of the infundibulum, pulp, root, lamina dura, periodontal space and alveolar bone in maxillary cheek teeth were recorded.

Results

Single CT changes were much more prevalent in the 28 horses with clinical signs. However, infundibular changes and a nondetectable lamina dura were also common in the 21 horses without clinical evidence of apical infection. Computed tomographic abnormalities of the pulp, root, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture were significantly related. Infundibular changes were not associated with other CT signs of apical infection. Although nondetectable lamina dura was the most frequent CT change in all teeth in both studied groups, it was most commonly a solitary feature in otherwise normal teeth. Apical infections, defined as ≥3 CT changes, occurred mainly in the 108/208, 109/209 and 110/210 (Triadan numbers) and were found only in horses with clinical evidence of apical infection, except in one horse without clinical signs that had one affected root.

Conclusions

Combined CT changes of the pulp, root, lamina dura, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture appear to be reliable features to diagnose apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth. As a solitary feature, a nondetectable lamina dura should be interpreted cautiously and may even be considered normal due to its minor thickness and/or too low resolution of the imaging modality.