bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Out of the Sphere of Religion”: The Sacred, the Profane, and the Mormons
Authors: Givens Terryl L.
Published: May 2013

This chapter outlines the problem nineteenth-century writers and critics of Mormonism faced in reconciling a rhetoric of vituperation and a practice of exclusion with an ideology of Jeffersonian religious toleration and pluralism. One of the challenges Mormonism—like other heterodoxies—presented to its detractors, in other words, was that its religious radicalism was an opportunity for toleration at the same time it was an occasion for outrage. At those times when outrage carried the day, the pressures of pluralism made it desirable to cast the objectionability of Mormonism in nonreligious terms.
“Ground in the Presbyterian Smut Machine”: The Popular Press, Fiction, and Moral Crusading
Authors: Givens Terryl L.
Published: May 2013

Given the fact that newspapers, novelists, preachers, politicians, and humorists united in heaping contempt upon Mormonism—and upon other heterodoxies as well—in the nineteenth century, it is natural enough to ask what provoked such opposition. This chapter addresses the following question: what circumstances might have contributed to an atmosphere in which it was possible to galvanize, exacerbate, and express public opinion in a way that created a symphony of censure out of disparate and often unrelated protests? It suggests that while the Mormon image prevalent throughout most of the nineteenth century was largely a response to a perceived Mormon heresy, tensions can be compounded, facilitated, and exaggerated by prevailing norms and mechanisms of rhetorical practice. Construction of the Mormon image was profoundly affected by revolutions in publishing, literacy, and literary form that conditioned an entire generation of literature hostile to religious heterodoxy.
Improving Cost-Benefit Analysis in the Assessment of Infrastructure Projects in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Amend Marcos , Fleck Leonardo , Reid John
Published: May 2013

Because a substantial portion of Brazil is covered by the Amazon rain forest and because the rain forest is so valuable, environmental decision-making in Brazil is closely linked with the Amazon. This chapter surveys several case studies where researchers examined the costs and benefits of government-backed infrastructure projects with significant impacts on the Amazon. In each of these cases, the analyses conducted were inadequate and failed to account for a range of important considerations. The Brazilian experience shows that cost-benefit analysis can play an important role in shaping environmental policy in the context of an emerging economy by adding transparency to the decision-making process and increasing political accountability.
The Differences between Various Doctrinal Categories
Authors: Cabezón José Ignacio
Published: May 2013

This chapter of the translation reads a bit like a primer (or even catechism) of Buddhism. It introduces the reader to various categories and then goes on to discuss the differences between them. It treats the differences between (1) saṃsāra and nirvāṇa, (2) mundane and transcendental paths, (3) between those who have and who have not been influenced by philosophical tenets, (4) between the heterodox and Buddhists, (5) between Mahāyāna and Hīnyāna, (6) between Mantrayāna and philosophical [Mahāyāna], (7) between outer and inner tantras, (8) between the three inner tantric stages: generation, completion, and great completion, (9) between scripture and treatises, and (10) between the old and new translation schools of the tantra.
Non-Buddhists
Authors: Cabezón José Ignacio
Published: May 2013

This chapter begins the second part of the Lamp, which is dedicated to the nine vehicles (theg pa dgu), the fundamental doxographical scheme used by followers of the Ancient or Nyingma tradition. Before launching into the nine vehicles, however, Rogben provides the reader with a general overview of the non-Buddhist schools, which can be divided into those who have philosophical views, and those who do not. The latter fall into two main headings: hedonists and nihilists. The former can be classified into eternalists or nihilists. Rogben also offers refutations of these various types of “false views.”
Vesicle formation as a result of interaction between polymorphonuclear neutrophils and Staphylococcus aureus biofilm
Authors: Chebotar Igor’ V. , Konchakova Evgenia D. , Maianskii Andrey N.
Published: May 2013

Staphylococcus aureus, a major opportunistic pathogen, is a leading cause of biofilm-related infections in clinical practice. Staphylococcal biofilms are highly resistant to antibacterial medicines and immune effector cells. The main result of our work is the discovery of nano-vesicles in the supernatant of the human neutrophil–S. aureusbiofilm system. We also found that phospholipase C treatment causes complete destruction of these vesicles. While the addition of proteinase K led to a partial structural disorganization of the vesicles, DNase treatment did not influence the vesicle structure. These observations allowed us to conclude that phospholipids and proteins play a structure-forming role in the formation of these nano-vesicles. The vesicles demonstrated anti-biofilm activities when tested againstStaphylococcus epidermidis(strains 178M and 328/5) biofilms, but were ineffective forS. aureus(strains 5983/2, 5663 and 18A) biofilms.
Rhodococcus equi granulomatous mastitis in an immunocompetent patient
Authors: Nath Swapna R. , Mathew Arun Peter , Mohan Arun , Anila K. R.
Published: May 2013

A 37-year-old immunocompetent woman was evaluated for progressive swelling of her left breast. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multiple hypo-intense solid lesions and could not exclude breast cancer. Tissue biopsy was suggestive of granulomatous mastitis without any evidence of malignancy. Culture of the specimen in brain heart infusion broth grew Rhodococcus equi. The patient responded well to combination therapy with ciprofloxacin and azithromycin, and the lesions regressed in follow-up MRI. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of R. equi granulomatous mastitis. Accurate identification of this rare pathogen is necessary to provide appropriate treatment in granulomatous mastitis.
Induction of proinflammatory cytokines in human lung epithelial cells during Rhodococcus equi infection
Authors: Remuzgo-Martínez Sara , Pilares-Ortega Lilian , Álvarez-Rodríguez Lorena , Aranzamendi-Zaldunbide Maitane , Padilla Daniel , Icardo Jose Manuel , Ramos-Vivas Jose
Published: May 2013

Rhodococcus equiis an opportunistic human pathogen associated with immunosuppressed people. While the interaction ofR. equiwith macrophages has been comprehensively studied, little is known about its interactions with non-phagocytic cells. Here, we characterized the entry process of this bacterium into human lung epithelial cells. The invasion is inhibited by nocodazole and wortmannin, suggesting that the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase pathway and microtubule cytoskeleton are important for invasion. Pre-incubation ofR. equiwith a rabbit anti-R. equipolyclonal antiserum resulted in a dramatic reduction in invasion. Also, the invasion process as studied by immunofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy indicates thatR. equimake initial contact with the microvilli of the A549 cells, and at the structural level, the entry process was observed to occur via a zipper-like mechanism. Infected lung epithelial cells upregulate the expression of cytokines IL-8 and IL-6 upon infection. The production of these pro-inflammatory cytokines was significantly enhanced in culture supernatants from cells infected with non-mucoid plasmid-less strains when compared with cells infected with mucoid strains. These results demonstrate that human airway epithelial cells produce pro-inflammatory mediators againstR. equiisolates.
Evaluation of heteroresistance to polymyxin B among carbapenem-susceptible and -resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Hermes Djuli M. , Pormann Pitt Caroline , Lutz Larissa , Teixeira Aline B. , Ribeiro Vanessa B. , Netto Bárbara , Martins Andreza F. , Zavascki Alexandre P. , Barth Afonso L.
Published: May 2013

One hundred and twenty-fourPseudomonas aeruginosaisolates were selected for antimicrobial susceptibility testing with anti-pseudomonal agents, MIC determination for polymyxin B and metallo-beta-lactamase detection (genesblaSPM,blaVIM-1,blaNDM-1andblaIMP). According to the imipenem and/or meropenem susceptibility profile, a set of randomly selected isolates (12 isolates carbapenem-susceptible and 12 isolates carbapenem-resistant) were evaluated for heteroresistance to polymyxin B. Heteroresistance testing was performed by plating the isolates onto increasing concentrations of polymyxin B (from 0 to 8.0 mg l–1). The population analysis profile (PAP) was defined as the ratio of the number of colony-forming units on the plate with the highest concentration of polymyxin B at which bacterial growth occurred against the number of colony-forming units on the plate without antibiotic. Isolates presenting subpopulations that exhibited growth at polymyxin B concentrations ≥2 mg l–1were considered heteroresistant. Isolates containing subpopulations that grew at polymyxin B concentrations at least twice as high as the original MIC but <2 mg l–1were considered heterogeneous. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing results indicated a variable degree of susceptibility: high levels of resistance to gentamicin (30.6 %) and imipenem (29.0 %); low levels of resistance to aztreonam (1.6 %) and ciprofloxacin (4.8 %). All isolates were susceptible to polymyxin B: MIC50and MIC90were 1 mg l–1and 2 mg l–1, respectively. Thirty-seven isolates (30 %) were carbapenem-resistant. Four isolates resistant to carbapenems were positive forblaIMP. There were no heteroresistant subpopulations in the carbapenem-susceptible group, but three isolates presented heterogeneous subpopulations. The PAP frequency ranged from 2.1×10−4to 6.9×10−8. In the carbapenem-resistant group, one isolate was heteroresistant. Six isolates in this group presented heterogeneous subpopulations. In the resistant population, the PAP frequency ranged from 2.1×10−7to 2.6×10−4. In this study, polymyxin B heteroresistance inP. aeruginosawas uncommon and occurred in only one carbapenem-resistant isolate, despite the fact that several isolates presented heterogeneous subpopulations with increased polymyxin B MICs.
Functional Implication of β-Carotene Hydroxylases in Soybean Nodulation
Authors: Kim Yun-Kyoung , Kim Sunghan , Um Ji-Hyun , Kim Kyunga , Choi Sun-Kang , Um Byung-Hun , Kang Suk-Woo , Kim Jee-Woong , Takaichi Shinichi , Song Seok-Bo , Lee Choon-Hwan , Kim Ho-Seung , Kim Ki Woo , Nam Kyoung Hee , Lee Suk-Ha , Kim Yul-Ho , Park Hyang-Mi , Ha Sun-Hwa , Verma Desh Pal S. , Cheon Choong-Ill
Published: May 2013

Legume-Rhizobium spp. symbiosis requires signaling between the symbiotic partners and differential expression of plant genes during nodule development. Previously, we cloned a gene encoding a putative β-carotene hydroxylase (GmBCH1) from soybean (Glycine max) whose expression increased during nodulation with Bradyrhizobium japonicum. In this work, we extended our study to three GmBCHs to examine their possible role(s) in nodule development, as they were additionally identified as nodule specific, along with the completion of the soybean genome. In situ hybridization revealed the expression of three GmBCHs (GmBCH1, GmBCH2, and GmBCH3) in the infected cells of root nodules, and their enzymatic activities were confirmed by functional assays in Escherichia coli. Localization of GmBCHs by transfecting Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) protoplasts with green fluorescent protein fusions and by electron microscopic immunogold detection in soybean nodules indicated that GmBCH2 and GmBCH3 were present in plastids, while GmBCH1 appeared to be cytosolic. RNA interference of the GmBCHs severely impaired nitrogen fixation as well as nodule development. Surprisingly, we failed to detect zeaxanthin, a product of GmBCH, or any other carotenoids in nodules. Therefore, we examined the possibility that most of the carotenoids in nodules are converted or cleaved to other compounds. We detected the expression of some carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases (GmCCDs) in wild-type nodules and also a reduced amount of zeaxanthin in GmCCD8-expressing E. coli, suggesting cleavage of the carotenoid. In view of these findings, we propose that carotenoids such as zeaxanthin synthesized in root nodules are cleaved by GmCCDs, and we discuss the possible roles of the carotenoid cleavage products in nodulation.
Using multiple data sources provides density estimates for endangered Florida panther
Authors: Sollmann Rahel , Gardner Beth , Chandler Richard B. , Shindle David B. , Onorato David P. , Royle Jeffrey Andrew , O'Connell Allan F.
Published: May 2013

To assess recovery of endangered species, reliable information on the size and density of the target population is required. In practice, however, this information has proved hard to acquire, especially for large carnivores that exist at low densities, are cryptic and range widely. Many large carnivore species such as the endangered Florida panther Puma concolor coryi lack clear visual features for individual identification; thus, using standard approaches for estimating population size, such as camera‐trapping and capture–recapture modelling, has so far not been possible.

We developed a spatial capture–recapture model that requires only a portion of the individuals in the population to be identifiable, using data from two 9‐month camera‐trapping surveys conducted within the core range of panthers in southwestern Florida. Identity of three radio‐collared individuals was known, and we incorporated their telemetry location data into the model to improve parameter estimates.

The resulting density estimates of 1·51 (±0·81) and 1·46 (±0·76) Florida panthers per 100 km2 for each year are the first estimates for this endangered subspecies and are consistent with estimates for other puma subspecies.

A simulation study showed that estimates of density may exhibit some positive bias but coverage of the true values by 95% credible intervals was nominal.

Synthesis and applications. This approach provides a framework for monitoring the Florida panther – and other species without conspicuous markings – while fully accounting for imperfect detection and varying sampling effort, issues of fundamental importance in the monitoring of wildlife populations.
Muscarinic agonists in the treatment of neuropathic pain: a novel finding
Authors: Deng Liting , Guindon Josée
Published: May 2013

See original article on page 404
Debt policy under constraints: Philip II, the Cortes, and Genoese bankers
Authors: Álvarez‐Nogal Carlos , Chamley Christophe
Published: May 2013

Under Philip II, Castile was the first country with a large nation‐wide domestic public debt. A new view of that fiscal system is presented that is potentially relevant for other fiscal systems in Europe before 1800. The credibility of the debt, mostly in perpetual redeemable annuities, was enhanced by decentralized funding through taxes administered by cities making up the Realm in the Cortes. The accumulation of short‐term debt depended on refinancing through long‐term debt. Financial crises in the short‐term debt occurred when the service of the long‐term debt reached the revenues of its servicing taxes. They were not caused by liquidity crises and were resolved after protracted negotiations in the Cortes by tax increases and interest rate reductions.
Comparison of the performance of guaiac‐based and two immunochemical fecal occult blood tests for identifying advanced colorectal neoplasia in Taiwan
Authors: Ou Chi‐Hsing , Kuo Fu‐Chen , Hsu Wen‐Hung , Lu Chien‐Yu , Yu Fang‐Jung , Kuo Chao‐Hung , Wang Jaw‐Yuan , Wu Ming‐Tsang , Shiea Jentaie , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Hu Huang‐Ming
Published: May 2013

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the performance of fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) for the screening of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

We selected participants from a medical center in Taiwan, China from November 2009 to June 2011. All participants underwent screening colonoscopy and were asked to provide their stool samples for qualitative immunochemical FOBT (qlFIT), quantitative immunochemical FOBT (qnFIT) and the guaiac‐based FOBT(GT). The receiver operating characteristic curve was utilized to determine the optimal cut‐off value of qnFIT. We measured the detection ability of the FOBT for colonic polypoid lesions.

Results

In all, 699 participants were enrolled in this study. For qnFIT, we found increased levels of fecal hemoglobin in participants with polyps ≥10 mm (251.0 ng/mL), villous‐containing adenomas (98.7 ng/mL) and advanced adenomas (187.9 ng/mL). The optimal cut‐off value for qnFIT was 25 ng/mL for detecting advanced colorectal neoplasms (ACRN). All three FOBT had a similar but low estimate in detecting small and tubular adenomatous polyps. The qnFIT had a better detection ability for large adenomas (positive likelihood ratio [PLR], 5.6 vs 3.1 vs 0.3) and adenomas with villous‐components (PLR 3.7 vs 3.3 vs 0.3) than qlFIT and GT. For the ACRN group, qnFIT also showed the best screening ability with a sensitivity of 56.8%, accuracy of 86.7% and PLR 5.0.

Conclusions

Both qnFIT and qlFIT perform better than GT in detecting advanced adenomas and CRC in the Taiwanese population.
Initial human experience with Rubidium‐82 renal PET/CT imaging
Authors: Tahari Abdel K , Bravo Paco E , Rahmim Arman , Bengel Frank M , Szabo Zsolt
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Preclinical data have shown that Rubidium‐82 chloride (82Rb) is a radiotracer with high first pass extraction and slow washout in the kidneys. The goal of this study was to investigate the feasibility of human kidney imaging with 82Rb positron emission tomography (PET) and obtain quantitative data of its uptake non‐invasively.

Methods

Eight healthy volunteers underwent dynamic PET/CT imaging with 82Rb. A preprogrammed pump was used to insure reproducible injections. Tissue time activity curves were generated from the renal cortex. An input function was derived from the left ventricular blood pool (LVBP), the descending thoracic aorta and the abdominal aorta. Renal blood flow was estimated by applying a two‐compartment kinetic model. Results obtained with different input functions were compared.

Results

Radiotracer accumulation was rapid and reached a plateau within 15–30 s after the bolus entered the kidneys. The derived K1 and k2 parameters were reproducible using input functions obtained from diverse vascular locations. K1 averaged 1.98 ± 0.14 mL/min/g. The average k2 was 0.35 ± 0.11/min. Correlation between K1 values obtained from the LVBP from different bed positions when the kidneys and abdominal aorta were in the same field of view was excellent (R = 0.95).

Conclusions

Non‐invasive quantitative human kidney imaging with 82Rb PET is feasible. Advantages of renal PET with 82Rb include excellent image quality with high image resolution and contrast. 82Rb has potential as a clinical renal imaging agent in humans.
The effect of Echinacea purpurea on the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel
Authors: Goey Andrew K. L. , Meijerman Irma , Rosing Hilde , Burgers Jacobus A. , Mergui‐Roelvink Marja , Keessen Marianne , Marchetti Serena , Beijnen Jos H. , Schellens Jan H. M.
Published: May 2013

Aims

The herbal medicine Echinacea purpurea (E. purpurea) has been shown to induce cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) both in vitro and in humans. This study explored whether E. purpurea affects the pharmacokinetics of the CYP3A4 substrate docetaxel in cancer patients.

Methods

Ten evaluable cancer patients received docetaxel (135 mg, 60 min IV infusion) before intake of a commercially available E. purpurea extract (20 oral drops three times daily) and 3 weeks later after a 14 day supplementation period with E. purpurea. In both cycles, pharmacokinetic parameters of docetaxel were determined.

Results

Before and after supplementation with E. purpurea, the mean area under the plasma concentration–time curve of docetaxel was 3278 ± 1086 and 3480 ± 1285 ng ml−1 h, respectively. This result was statistically not significant. Nonsignificant alterations were also observed for the elimination half‐life (from 30.8 ± 19.7 to 25.6 ± 5.9 h, P = 0.56) and maximum plasma concentration of docetaxel (from 2224 ± 609 to 2097 ± 925 ng ml−1, P = 0.30).

Conclusions

The multiple treatment of E. purpurea did not significantly alter the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel in this study. The applied E. purpurea product at the recommended dose may be combined safely with docetaxel in cancer patients.
Percutaneous nephrolithotomy guided solely by ultrasonography: a 5‐year study of >700 cases
Authors: Yan Song , Xiang Fei , Yongsheng Song
Published: May 2013

Objective

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) solely guided by ultrasonography (US).

Patients and Methods

From May 2007 to July 2012, 705 24‐F‐tract PCNL procedures were performed (679 patients, of whom 26 had bilateral stones).

Calyceal puncture and dilatation were performed under US guidance in all cases.

The procedure was evaluated for access success, length of postoperative hospital stay, complications (modified Clavien system), stone clearance and the need for auxiliary treatments.

Results

The mean (sd) operating time was 66 (25) min, with a mean (sd) postoperative hospital stay of 3.98 (1.34) days.

The patients experienced a mean (sd) haemoglobin level decrease of 2.24 (2.02) g/day and the overall stone‐free rate at 4 weeks after surgery was 92.6% in patients with a single calculus and 82.9% in patients with staghorn or multiple calculi.

Auxiliary treatments, including shockwave lithotripsy in 52 patients, re‐PCNL in 41 patients and ureteroscopy in 18 patients, were performed 1 week after the primary procedure in 111 (15.7%) cases for residual stones >4 mm in size.

The sensitivities of intra‐operative US‐guidance and flexible nephroscopy for detecting significant residual stones and clinically insignificant residual fragments were 95.3 and 89.1%, respectively.

There were 94 grade 1 (13.3%), 17 grade 2 (2.4%), and two grade 3 (0.3%) complications, but there were no grade 4 or 5 complications.

Conclusion

Total US‐guided PCNL is safe and convenient, and may be performed without any major complications and with the advantage of preventing radiation hazards and damage to adjacent organs.
Positive surgical margins after minimally invasive radical prostatectomy in patients with pT2 and pT3a disease could be considered pathological upstaging
Authors: Ouzzane Adil , Rozet François , Salas Rafael Sanchez , Galiano Marc , Barret Eric , Prapotnich Dominique , Cathelineau Xavier
Published: May 2013

Objective

To assess the prognostic significance of positive surgical margins (PSMs) after minimally invasive radical prostatectomy (MIRP) in interaction with other established prognosis factors.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively analysed data prospectively collected between 1998 and 2010 for 4628 consecutive patients who underwent MIRP for clinically localized prostate cancer.

The impact of PSM on biochemical recurrence (BCR), defined as prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) >0.2 ng/mL, was evaluated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression.

Estimates of BCR‐free survival were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared among groups using the log‐rank test.

Results

The median follow‐up was 55 months.

On multivariable analysis, PSM was an independent prognostic factor for BCR (adjusted hazard ratio: 2.14 for PSMs vs negative surgical margins (NSMs); 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.86–2.45; P < 0.001). Other independent predictors for BCR were preoperative PSA, date of surgery, pT stage, Gleason score and lymph node involvement (all P < 0.001).

The 5‐year BCR‐free probability was 80.6% (95% CI: 79–82.2) for NSMs vs 51% (95% CI: 47–55) for PSMs (log‐rank P < 0.001).

Patients with pT2 and pT3a PSMs had a similar prognosis to those with pT3a and pT3b NSMs, respectively (log‐rank P ≥ 0.05).

Conclusion

A PSM after MIRP is associated with 2.14‐fold increased risk of BCR. In patients with pT2 and pT3a disease, a PSM could be considered a pathological upstaging.
La subsidiarité en droit européen et canadien : Une comparaison
Authors: Arban Erika
Published: May 2013

Sommaire

Le principe de subsidiarité, l'un des principes les plus importants en droit européen, est récemment entré dans le débat constitutionnel canadien grâce à des décisions de la Cour suprême en matière de partage de compétences. Après un survol de l'histoire intellectuelle du principe en question, cet article compare la façon dont la subsidiarité a été traitée par la Cour suprême du Canada et par la Cour de justice de l'Union européenne, dans le but de discerner quelles leçons le Canada peut tirer de l'expérience européenne en matière de subsidiarité, en particulier en ce qui concerne les politiques sociales.
Shifting scales of governance and civil society participation in Canada and the European Union
Authors: Laforest Rachel
Published: May 2013

This article compares how the role and place of civil society groups in multilevel governance have evolved in Canada and the European Union (EU). It argues that, while the scope for engagement of organizations in the EU has broadened, it has been increasingly narrowed in Canada, to the extent that the policy process may be undermined. The article concludes with some insights from the EU experience in order to revive policy coordination in Canada as a governance technique.
The role of citizens in the “soft law” of select social policy areas in Canada and the European Union
Authors: Simmons Julie M.
Published: May 2013

This article compares the role of citizens in public reporting exercises of Canada's National Child Benefit and health care service delivery to that of the European Union's open method of coordination (OMC) for social protection and social inclusion. It finds that the institutional infrastructure providing for coordination across social policy areas and possible roles for non‐governmental actors in policy development is more extensive in the OMC than in the “new modes of governance” in Canada. However, there are obstacles to developing such infrastructure in Canada, given the different histories and political contexts of the European community and the functioning of federalism in Canada.
Who pays the piper calls the tune? Comparing Canada's and the European Union's expansionary roles in pensions
Authors: Marier Patrik
Published: May 2013

Both Canada and the European Union (EU) have been active in developing pension policies despite the lack of formal mandates to do so. While the Canadian government used its fiscal powers to expand its role in pension programs when pension emerged as a policy issue, the EU has been strongly limited by its lack of resources, institutional complexities, and the maturity of public pension programs in its member states. The EU experience generates interesting lessons for Canadian policy makers who are dealing with increasingly complex pension issues.
Union for International Cancer Control International Session: Healthcare Economics: The significance of the UN summit non‐communicable diseases political declaration in Asia
Authors: Akaza Hideyuki , Kawahara Norie , Masui Tohru , Takeyama Kunihiko , Nogimori Masafumi , Roh Jae Kyung
Published: May 2013

The Japan National Committee for the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and UICC‐Asia Regional Office (ARO) organized an international session as part of the official program of the 71st Annual Meeting of the Japanese Cancer Association to discuss the topic “Healthcare Economics: The Significance of the UN Summit non‐communicable diseases (NCDs) Political Declaration in Asia.” The presenters and participants discussed the growing cost of cancer in the Asian region and the challenges that are faced by the countries of Asia, all of which face budgetary and other systemic constraints in tackling and controlling cancer in the region. The session benefited from the participation of various stakeholders, including cancer researchers and representatives of the pharmaceutical industry. They discussed the significance of the UN Political Declaration on the prevention and control of NCDs (2011) as a means of boosting awareness of cancer in the Asian region and also addressed the ways in which stakeholders can cooperate to improve cancer control and treatment. Other issues that were covered included challenges relating to pharmaceutical trials in Asia and how to link knowledge and research outcomes. The session concluded with the recognition that with the onset of a super‐aged society in most countries in Asia and an increasing focus on quality of life rather than quantity of life, it is more important than ever for all stakeholders to continue to share information and promote policy dialogue on cancer control and treatment.
Use of peer assessment in tooth extraction competency
Authors: Ali K. , Heffernan E. , Lambe P. , Coombes L.
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Peer assessment is a widely recognised practice in higher education and is being increasingly utilised in healthcare education. It offers multiple advantages and may play a useful role in enhancing students' learning experience. This study was carried out to evaluate the utility of peer assessment in tooth extraction competency in simulated dental learning environment (SDLE).

Methods

Year 2 dental students were invited to participate in a formative, peer assessment exercise on forceps tooth extraction in SDLE. The ratings made by peers in the formative assessment were compared with the ratings made by academic supervisors in an equivalent summative assessment.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐two students participated in both the formative and summative assessments. Descriptive statistics demonstrated that the majority of students were given the same rating in both assessments. However, there were a number of students who were rated as ‘Competent’ in one assessment and ‘Not Competent’ in the other assessment. Spearman's Rho correlations showed that there were weak relationships between the formative and summative assessments. There was also weak inter‐rater reliability for the ratings of the peers and academic supervisors, as measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient. Feedback from the students and academic supervisors showed unanimously positive perceptions about the peer assessment experience, and they expressed the desire for incorporating peer assessment in other competencies.

Conclusions

This study shows mixed results with regard to the value of the peer assessment. Given the potential utility of peer assessment as a tool to augment and enrich students' learning experience, further work needs to be done to evaluate the use of peer assessment in operative competencies in dentistry.
Signaling mechanism underlying α2A‐adrenergic suppression of excitatory synaptic transmission in the medial prefrontal cortex of rats
Authors: Yi Feng , Liu Shu‐Su , Luo Fei , Zhang Xue‐Han , Li Bao‐Ming
Published: May 2013

Stimulation of α2A‐adrenoceptors (ARs) in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) produces a beneficial effect on cognitive functions such as working memory. A previous study in our laboratory showed that α2A‐AR stimulation suppresses excitatory synaptic transmission in layer V‐VI pyramidal cells of the rat medial PFC (mPFC). However, the intracellular mechanism underlying the α2A‐AR suppression remains unclear. In the present study, we recorded evoked excitatory postsynaptic current (eEPSC) in layer V‐VI pyramidal cells of the mPFC, using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording. We found that the α2A‐AR agonist guanfacine significantly suppresses eEPSC in mPFC pyramidal cells. The α2A‐AR inhibition is mediated by the Gi‐cAMP‐PKA‐PP1‐CaMKII‐AMPAR signaling pathway, as such inhibition no longer exists when each step of this pathway is blocked with NF023, Rp‐cAMP, PKI5–24 or H89, tautomycin, and KN‐62 or KN‐93, respectively.
Effects of Temperature on the Antipredator Behaviour and on the Cholinergic Expression in the European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.) Juveniles
Authors: Malavasi Stefano , Cipolato Giacomo , Cioni Carla , Torricelli Patrizia , Alleva Enrico , Manciocco Arianna , Toni Mattia
Published: May 2013

In this paper, an experimental approach was used to test for the parallel effects of temperature (T) increase on the antipredator behaviour and the cholinergic expression in the juvenile European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax L.). The effects of three T treatments (18, 22 and 26°C) were tested on the main behavioural components of the antipredator response towards live aquatic predators and aerial simulated attacks, whereas brain cholinergic expression was evaluated by choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) immunoblotting (Western blot) at the extreme values of the thermal range (18 and 26°C). Antipredator responses towards a live fish were analysed over pre‐exposure and exposure phases within a short temporal scale (20 s before and after the stimulus). The results suggest that T modulates several quantitative components of the antipredator behaviour. The mean shoaling index (shoal cohesiveness) was higher at 22°C than at 18 and 26°C during both the pre‐stimulus and the exposure phase. Conversely, the mean distances from the predator and the tank bottom were, respectively, lower and higher at 26°C than in the other two treatments. In regard to the antipredator response on the aerial stimulus, comparisons across treatments revealed statistically significant differences between fish performing freezing or latency to recovery, suggesting that the fright reaction has a higher persistence at the coldest T (18°C) than at 22 and 26°C. Western blot analysis revealed a reduction in brain ChAT expression in fish acclimated to 26°C compared to those at 18°C. Results were discussed in the light of the relationships between behavioural traits, metabolism and their consequences on the population level, as a response to climate change in coastal habitats.
Population genetics provides new insights into biomarker prevalence in dab (Limanda limanda L.): a key marine biomonitoring species
Authors: Tysklind Niklas , Taylor Martin I. , Lyons Brett P. , Goodsir Freya , McCarthy Ian D. , Carvalho Gary R.
Published: May 2013

Bioindicators are species for which some quantifiable aspect of its biology, a biomarker, is assumed to be sensitive to ecosystem health. However, there is frequently a lack of information on the underlying genetic and environmental drivers shaping the spatiotemporal variance in prevalence of the biomarkers employed. Here, we explore the relative role of potential variables influencing the spatiotemporal prevalence of biomarkers in dab, Limanda limanda, a species used as a bioindicator of marine contaminants. Firstly, the spatiotemporal genetic structure of dab around UK waters (39 samples across 15 sites for four years: 2005–2008) is evaluated with 16 microsatellites. Two temporally stable groups are identified corresponding to the North and Irish Seas (average between basin  = 0.007;  = 0.022). Secondly, we examine the association between biomarker prevalence and several variables, including genetic structuring, age and contaminant exposure. Genetic structure had significant interactive effects, together with age and some contaminants, in the prevalence of some of the biomarkers considered, namely hyperpigmentation and liver lesions. The integration of these data sets enhanced our understanding of the relationship between biomarker prevalence, exposure to contaminants and population‐specific response, thereby yielding more informative predictive models of response and prospects for environmental remediation.
The politics of patient‐centred care
Authors: Kreindler Sara A.
Published: May 2013

Background

Despite widespread belief in the importance of patient‐centred care, it remains difficult to create a system in which all groups work together for the good of the patient. Part of the problem may be that the issue of patient‐centred care itself can be used to prosecute intergroup conflict.

Objective

This qualitative study of texts examined the presence and nature of intergroup language within the discourse on patient‐centred care.

Methods

A systematic SCOPUS and Google search identified 85 peer‐reviewed and grey literature reports that engaged with the concept of patient‐centred care. Discourse analysis, informed by the social identity approach, examined how writers defined and portrayed various groups.

Results

Managers, physicians and nurses all used the discourse of patient‐centred care to imply that their own group was patient centred while other group(s) were not. Patient organizations tended to downplay or even deny the role of managers and providers in promoting patient centredness, and some used the concept to advocate for controversial health policies. Intergroup themes were even more obvious in the rhetoric of political groups across the ideological spectrum. In contrast to accounts that juxtaposed in‐groups and out‐groups, those from reportedly patient‐centred organizations defined a ‘mosaic’ in‐group that encompassed managers, providers and patients.

Conclusion

The seemingly benign concept of patient‐centred care can easily become a weapon on an intergroup battlefield. Understanding this dimension may help organizations resolve the intergroup tensions that prevent collective achievement of a patient‐centred system.
Influence of clinical usage of GT and GTX files on cyclic fatigue resistance
Authors: Arias A. , Perez‐Higueras J. J. , de la Macorra J. C.
Published: May 2013

Aim

To compare static cyclic fatigue resistance of unused, unused and sterilized and clinically used conventional NiTi GT and M‐Wire GTX files.

Methodology

One hundred and sixty new files (80 GT and 80 GT series X) were divided into four control groups and four experimental groups (n = 20 each). Control groups were new unused files and new sterilized files. In the experimental groups, instruments were used in three (GT1 and GTX1 groups) or four molars (GT2 and GTX2 groups). Cyclic fatigue resistance was tested in stainless steel curved canals (60°, r = 3 mm). Each file was rotated until fracture (300 rpm, 2 N cm torque). Time‐to‐fracture (s) was registered. Mean life, eta and beta parameters of their Weibull distributions were calculated.

Results

Unused and sterilized GTX files will last significantly longer than GT files with a probability of 75% and 65%, respectively; whilst mean life was significantly longer for GT than for GTX in used files with a probability of 68%. Sterilized GT files will last longer than unused files with a probability of 66%. In both brands, unused and sterilized files will last significantly longer than files used clinically with a probability higher than 98%. The probability that GT will last longer after being used in three rather than four molars was 62% (statistically significant) and 52% (not statistically significant) for GTX.

Conclusions

GTX files had an extended cyclic fatigue life when compared with GT when they were unused or unused and sterilized, but GT were significantly more resistant to cyclic fatigue after clinical usage than GT series X files 3 mm from the tip. Sterilization of files enhanced the cyclic fatigue resistance of GT instruments. Clinical use of files diminished cyclic fatigue resistance.
Intermarriage Attitudes Among Minority and Majority Groups in Western Europe: The Role of Attachment to the Religious In‐Group
Authors: Carol Sarah
Published: May 2013

The key question of this paper is whether social integration, both for minority (migrants) and majority groups (natives) in Western Europe, varies across contexts of exit (ethnic origins) and contexts of reception (Western European countries); and if so, how does religious identity and practice serve to mediate these contextual differences? To investigate this question I draw on the international comparative dataset EURISLAM which includes comparisons between Muslim migrants of ex‐Yugoslav, Turkish, Moroccan and Pakistani origin with majority group members of Belgium, Britain, Germany and Switzerland. Social integration is measured through attitudes towards intermarriage across Muslim/non‐Muslim lines. As results show, ethnic groups differ in their probabilities to approve of intermarriage. Especially migrants from the former Yugoslavia encounter a significantly lower approval of intermarriage by natives. However, approval of intermarriage is closely tied to religiosity. Once religiosity is controlled for, all migrant groups become significantly more positive about intermarriage than natives. Following theories on in‐group favouritism and the homophily principle, we find that religious identity among migrants and practice among both natives and migrants are associated with reluctance to intermarry. Policy makers are advised to take note that contextual differences in perceived social integration of immigrant groups could be confounding other factors, including how differences in religiosity affect social integration. Migrants' significantly higher approval of intermarriage after controlling religiosity implies that policy makers may conceivably have to shift attention from migrants to natives and undertake some action in order to enable a greater intercultural understanding.
Demography and feeding behavior of the kelp crab Taliepus marginatus in subtidal habitats dominated by the kelps Macrocystis pyrifera or Lessonia trabeculata
Authors: Jofré Madariaga David , Ortiz Marco , Thiel Martin
Published: May 2013

We studied the population and feeding ecology of the kelp crab Taliepus marginatus in subtidal kelp forests dominated by either of two morphologically different kelp species (Macrocystis pyrifera or Lessonia trabeculata) in northern Chile. The sizes and abundances of T. marginatus differed between the two kelp habitats. Kelp crabs were more abundant in the M. pyrifera forest than in the L. trabeculata forest. Size‐frequency distributions showed that juvenile and immature crabs were more common in the M. pyrifera forest than in the L. trabeculata forest, where reproductive adults predominated. The smaller crabs in the M. pyrifera habitat also consumed a higher proportion of kelp tissues than the larger crabs in the L. trabeculata habitat, which had a higher proportion of animal food in their diet. In both kelp forests, individuals of T. marginatus showed a similar pattern of nocturnal feeding over a 24‐h period, consuming more food at night than during the day. The more complex and dense forests of M. pyrifera appear to present better nursery habitats for juvenile kelp crabs than the more open and less dense forests dominated by L. trabeculata. These results suggest that the role of the two kelp habitats for T. marginatus varies during the life cycle of the kelp crabs, with M. pyrifera tending to have nursery function and L. trabeculata being more suitable as a reproductive habitat.
Genotype‐by‐environment interactions due to antibiotic resistance and adaptation in Escherichia coli
Authors: Hall A. R.
Published: May 2013

Mutations that are beneficial in one environment can have different fitness effects in other environments. In the context of antibiotic resistance, the resulting genotype‐by‐environment interactions potentially make selection on resistance unpredictable in heterogeneous environments. Furthermore, resistant bacteria frequently fix additional mutations during evolution in the absence of antibiotics. How do these two types of mutations interact to determine the bacterial phenotype across different environments? To address this, I used Escherichia coli as a model system, measuring the effects of nine different rifampicin resistance mutations on bacterial growth in 31 antibiotic‐free environments. I did this both before and after approximately 200 generations of experimental evolution in antibiotic‐free conditions (LB medium), and did the same for the antibiotic‐sensitive wild type after adaptation to the same environment. The following results were observed: (i) bacteria with and without costly resistance mutations adapted to experimental conditions and reached similar levels of competitive fitness; (ii) rifampicin resistance mutations and adaptation to LB both indirectly altered growth in other environments; and (iii) resistant‐evolved genotypes were more phenotypically different from the ancestor and from each other than resistant‐nonevolved and sensitive‐evolved genotypes. This suggests genotype‐by‐environment interactions generated by antibiotic resistance mutations, observed previously in short‐term experiments, are more pronounced after adaptation to other types of environmental variation, making it difficult to predict long‐term selection on resistance mutations from fitness effects in a single environment.
Metamorphism of the Amdo metamorphic complex,Tibet: implications for the Jurassic tectonic evolution of the Bangong suture zone
Authors: Guynn J. , Tropper P. , Kapp P. , Gehrels G. E.
Published: May 2013

Tibet consists of several terranes that progressively collided with the southern margin of Asia during the Mesozoic following the closure of intervening ocean basins. This Mesozoic amalgamation history, as well as the extent to which it may have contributed to crustal thickening prior to the Cenozoic Indo‐Asia collision, remains poorly constrained and strongly debated. Here, we present a metamorphic petrological and U‐Pb zircon geochronological study of the Amdo metamorphic complex, one of the few exposures of high‐grade metamorphic rocks in central Tibet, located along the Bangong suture between the Qiangtang terrane to the north and the Lhasa terrane to the south. U‐Pb ages of metamorphic zircon in gneiss constrain the timing of peak metamorphism atc. 178 Ma, prior to the Early Cretaceous collision between the two terranes. PeakP–Tconditions of gneiss within the metamorphic complex are constrained by conventional as well as multi‐equilibrium (THERMOCALCv.3.21 and v.3.33) geothermobarometry of two samples of garnet‐amphibolite. WhereasTHERMOCALCv.3.21 yields similar results as conventional geothermobarometry,THERMOCALCv. 3.33 yields dramatically lower pressures, mostly due to the change in the amphibole activity model used. UsingTHERMOCALCv.3.21, the two garnet‐amphibolite samples yield similarP–Tconditions of 0.83 ± 0.06 GPa at 646 ± 33 °C and 0.97 ± 0.06 GPa at 704 ± 35 °C. Plagioclase coronas on the garnet‐amphibolite sample with lower peakP–Tconditions indicate a period of isothermal decompression. Additional geothermometry on two garnet‐free amphibolites yielded similar temperatures of 700–750 °C and suggests similarP–Tconditions across most of the complex. However, two exposures of garnet‐kyanite schist located along the southern edge of the metamorphic complex yielded slightly lower peak conditions of 0.75–0.85 GPa and 550–610 °C. Petrographic and field relations suggest the difference in metamorphic grade between the schist and gneiss is due to an intervening thrust fault. The existence of the thrust fault indicates that at least part of the exhumation of the complex was due to contractional deformation, possibly during the Lhasa‐Qiangtang collision. OurP–T–tresults indicate the occurrence of a significant Early Jurassic tectonothermal event along the southern, active margin of the Qiangtang terrane that deeply buried the Amdo rocks. We suggest that the metamorphism is a result of arc‐related tectonism that may have been regionally extensive along the southern Qiangtang terrane; geological records of this tectonism may be rarely exposed along strike because of a lack of exhumation or subsequent depositional and structural burial.