bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La dimension cérémonielle de la reconnaissance dans la justice
Authors: Garapon Antoine
Published: September 2014

La justice est devenue en quelques années le lieu institutionnel de la reconnaissance, le juge occupant la place du « tiers de reconnaissance ». Comment alors cette fonction anthropologiquement essentielle va-t-elle pouvoir se loger dans des formes juridiques destinées à un autre emploi ? Pour répondre à cette question, il faudra l’examiner à partir des différentes formes de justice. La justice ordinaire, bien sûr, qui a été particulièrement investie ces dernières années, notamment par les victimes qui se sont emparées des prétoires comme d’un espace pour publier leurs souffrances et se plaindre du déni de reconnaissance dont elles pâtissaient de la part des pouvoirs publics. Mais aussi la justice constitutionnelle de laquelle est également attendue une fonction de reconnaissance : la demande de certaines minorités – songeons aux homosexuels – n’est plus la liberté de vivre comme elles l’entendent mais de se voir reconnaître dans leur différence. C’est vrai aux États-Unis comme en France avec l’apparition de la question prioritaire de constitutionnalité. La reconnaissance est enfin l’un des buts affichés de la justice dite « transitionnelle », qui est convoquée après des crimes de masse pour hâter la réconciliation. Toutes ces formes seront recensées pour analyser comment s’y loge la reconnaissance.
Digital Media, Secrecy, and International Lawmaking
Authors: Stoyanova Diliana
Published: September 2014

The introduction of digital technologies in political communications has added new dimensions to international lawmaking and to the interactions between citizens and governments on a global scale. This chapter gives both a theoretical background and concrete examples that demonstrate how the new media has augmented the power of global civil society. The period of time under scrutiny is very recent—end of 20th to beginning of 21st century—and therefore the focus is on treaties as sources of international law, rather than on customary international law. Since international treaties are negotiated both within supra-national structures, like the UN, and also between countries outside of those organizations, the chapter superimposes the two processes with a special emphasis on the culture of secrecy in both cases. The organizations and treaties that are reviewed are the United Nations (in a more general fashion), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the Anti-Counterfeit Trade Agreement (ACTA), with a mention of the failure of the OECD Multilateral Agreement on Investment (MAI) for a global social movement parallel. The reason for putting those cases in the spotlight is that they deal with trade aspects that affect people the world over. In addition, the protests against them, the anti-globalization ones in Seattle 1999, the 1997 anti-MAI, and the 2012 anti-ACTA movements were all organized and mobilized through the Internet.
Social Media in the English Legal Context
Authors: Mohammed Iqbal
Published: September 2014

This chapter examines the development of social media in relation to its impact on the law, legal system, and legal profession of England and Wales, considering other jurisdictions such as the United States of America and Australia. The author analyses the convergence between the opposing forces of legal certainty and control on the one hand, and mass, unrestrained social media on the other. In particular, the author reviews the challenges presented by the use of social media in modern society: in particular, a sophisticated legal system across a range of jurisdictions. The effect of social media is considered alongside the individual responses in each scenario, their effectiveness, and then, finally, the intuitional responses of the legal profession, lawmakers, and the judiciary as a whole to the rise of social media.
Online Resolution and Citizen Empowerment
Authors: Rule Colin , Wilson Mark
Published: September 2014

In the private sector, the growth in interactive, online technology use has already disrupted many private industries, from medicine to finance to entertainment. Interactive, online technology has empowered consumers, giving them more choices and better information, and business has been transformed as a result. It is clear that government services are in the process of being similarly transformed. What unique challenges do government agencies face in implementing interactive, online technology and what guidelines should government agency decision makers follow when approaching it? In this chapter, the authors answer those questions on the basis of their first-hand experience helping government agencies build advanced online dispute resolution systems. They focus in particular on one case study: transitioning property tax appeals from a paper-based process to an interactive, online process. Through this examination, the authors (1) highlight the unique challenges they encountered and (2) make recommendations for government agency decision makers from the lessons they learned.
E-Government in Public Administration in Africa
Authors: Massamba Guy-Maurille
Published: September 2014

This chapter is motivated by the need to escape the illusory perception of an incongruous implementation of information and communication technology policies in public administration processes in Africa. The problem is brought to light through an analytical distinction between e-government and e-governance. The analysis deals primarily with the impact of the new techno-economic regime, fostered by the development of information and communication technologies, on business and administrative structures, and shows that the conditions of implementation have varied from one political and policy environment to another. An inquiry into African ICT policies reveals a problem translated into the scantiness of African public administration structures in incorporating the conditions of technological change. The approach to solving the problem derives from the underlying distinction between e-government and e-governance. It shows that the efforts that produced thriving outcomes have tended to instill principled behaviors and actions in the restructuring of public administration structures.
E-Government for Rural Development in Tanzania
Authors: Kisusu R. W. , Bahati D. M. , Kisusu G. R.
Published: September 2014

This chapter presents the importance of developing rural areas with an emphasis on good governance and poverty alleviation through the use of electronic government in Tanzania. With such concern, the authors show that rural areas are as significant as the economy of most of the developing countries, including Tanzania. As such, putting sufficient efforts on rural development is unavoidable for rapid development. Further, the authors note how Tanzania improves its rural areas through the use of e-government, but efforts are constrained by the existence of poor Information Communication Technology service providers, ineffective policy, and unreliability of rural electricity. In order to address such shortfalls, the authors propose several solutions that could motivate the increase in the use of rural e-government and revise rural development policy.
An Empirical Application of the DeLone and McLean Model to Examine Factors for E-Government Adoption in the Selected Districts of Tanzania
Authors: Komba Mercy Mlay , Ngulube Patrick
Published: September 2014

This study tests the model of information system success proposed by DeLone and McLean using data that was collected in three selected districts of Tanzania. A survey was administered to elicit factors for e-government adoption in Tanzania using the DeLone and McLean model of information system success. The results of multiple linear regressions indicate that system quality significantly influences e-government adoption in Tanzania. In light of these findings, researchers should conduct a similar study using other different models of e-government adoption in order to identify more factors that influence e-government adoption in Tanzania. Policy makers and e-government project teams should consider system quality as a barrier to e-government adoption and hence find ways of ensuring easy-to-use and easy-to-learn systems in order to facilitate e-government adoption within the country.
The Issues and Prospects for E-Governance in Eastern Africa
Authors: Okaka Wilson
Published: September 2014

This chapter discusses the issues, prospects, and challenges of e-governance in Africa with a focus on the progress of universal primary education in east Africa. It uses Uganda to showcase the need for e-governance of primary school education. The objectives are to describe the current status of the universal primary education, the key issues encountered in an effort to achieve MDG 2, and highlight the prospects of e-governance in achieving education. In this chapter, the authors collate published evidence on the performance of Uganda in implementing the MDG 2. There is a wide rural-urban digital gap, weak ICT infrastructures, and low awareness at the expense of quality UPE. There is limited access to ICT, ICT illiteracy, poor quality education, lack of e-books or ICT instructional materials to cut the costs of school administration like communication. E-governance has yet to achieve full deployment in education service delivery.
Steering E-Government Projects from Failure to Success
Authors: Lessa Lemma , Negash Solomon , Belachew Mesfin
Published: September 2014

There are many e-government failures in developing countries. Most studies look at these after the event (post hoc), but this chapter takes an original approach to look mid-implementation (durante hoc) in order to provide recommendations for improvement. The authors chose a partial failure/partial success land management information system being implemented in one Ethiopian city. The project has made retrieval of land information quicker and simpler but is only partly implemented, and is still—on occasion—circumvented by public servants for personal gain. They used design-reality gap framework to understand why the project had partly failed. The authors used the design-reality gap analysis to propose an action plan that would help institutionalise the system, steering it from partial failure to success. They demonstrate the value of this framework as a tool for mid-implementation analysis of e-government projects. The authors recommend its usage on other ongoing e-government projects in developing countries.
Nanotechnology for Environmental Control and Remediation
Authors: Bashir Rafia , Chisti Hamida
Published: September 2014

The chapter emphasizes nanotechnology, which is an emerging field that covers a wide range of technologies that are presently under development in nanoscale. Nanotechnology offers the potential of novel nanomaterials for treatment of surface water, ground water, and waste water contaminated by toxic metal ions, organic and inorganic solutes, and microorganisms. The advantages of the use of nanomaterials, which are related to their properties that are completely different from the bulk materials, make them extremely attractive and give them enormous potential. Among the areas that are influenced by nanotechnology, environmental remediation is highlighted in this chapter. This chapter emphasizes several nanomaterials (Zero valent iron, titanium dioxide, nanoclays, nanotubes, dendrimers, ferritin, metalloporphyrinogens, and SAAMS) and their application in water treatment, purification, and disinfection. The use of nanoparticles in environmental remediation, which inevitably leads to the release of nanoparticles into the environment and subsequent ecosystems, is also explained.
The Impact of the Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) on Hospital Pathology Services
Authors: Georgiou Andrew
Published: September 2014

This chapter reviews what is currently known about the effect of the Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) on aspects of laboratory test ordering, their impact on laboratory efficiency, and the contribution this makes to the quality of patient care. The EMR can be defined as a functioning electronic database within a given organisation that contains patient information. Although laboratory services are expected to gain from the introduction of the EMRs, the evidence to date has highlighted many challenges associated with the implementation of EMRs, including their potential to cause major shifts in responsibilities, work processes, and practices. The chapter outlines an organisational communication framework that has been derived from empirical evidence. This framework considers the interplay between communication, temporal, and organisational factors, as a way to help health information technology designers, clinicians, and hospital and laboratory professionals meet the important challenges associated with EMR design, implementation, and sustainability.
Innovative Architecture to Enhance Quality of Service for Laboratory Management Information Systems
Authors: Mahoto Naeem A. , Shaikh Faisal K. , Chowdhry B. S.
Published: September 2014

Technological improvements have changed the life style in the modern era, where communication has become easier compared with olden days. Technological solutions have been deployed in every sector including business, education, and health services. Although a number of solutions are proposed for improvements in the healthcare sector, the complexity and growing interest in this sector have created new approaches. This chapter proposes an innovative architecture for the laboratory management information system to enhance the quality and management issues. The proposed architecture integrates two major fields, namely wireless technology and data mining. The wireless technology enables the collection of data easily and wirelessly, and data mining ensures meaningful and novel knowledge discovery from the collected data. In particular, the architecture helps management in three different ways: (1) prevention of risks/errors using technological solutions, (2) an environment to respond rapidly to adverse events, and (3) construction of knowledge base for future guidelines.
A Case Study of a Laboratory Information System Developed at the Institute for Cancer Research at Candiolo
Authors: Fiori Alessandro , Grand Alberto , Alberto Piero , Geda Emanuele , Brundu Francesco Gavino , Schioppa Domenico , Bertotti Andrea
Published: September 2014

Research laboratories produce a huge amount of complex and heterogeneous data typically managed by Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMSs). Although many LIMSs are available, it is often difficult to identify a product that covers all the requirements and peculiarities of a specific institution. To deal with this lack, the Candido Cancer Institute decided to start a project, named the Laboratory Assistant Suite (LAS), with the aim of developing a new software platform that assists researchers throughout diverse laboratory activities. The proposed system can track laboratory experiments even in problematic environments, support the integration of heterogeneous biomedical data, and help in decision-making tasks. In this chapter, the authors present the current architecture of the system, some real-use cases, as well as statistics about stored data and user feedback in order to provide an overview of the functionalities and show the effectiveness of the platform in supporting research in the molecular oncology field.
An Evaluation of Laboratory Information Systems in Medical Laboratories in Jamaica
Authors: McGrowder Donovan , Bishop Romeo
Published: September 2014

This chapter seeks to find out information on the functionalities of the laboratory information systems available in medical laboratories in Jamaica and their ease of use and the overall performance and satisfaction of medical technologists using them. A cross-sectional descriptive survey involving the use of a 48-item questionnaire was conducted among medical laboratories with a LIS. There were a total of 14 completed questionnaires out of 15, giving a response rate of 93.3%. The findings reveal that the majority of the laboratories have a LIS that provides multi-level security, allows password protection at different levels, maintains a patient database, and generates records. The majority of the medical technologists agree or strongly agree that it is easy to use the LIS and experience improved overall performance on the job. The medical technologists clearly understand the existing features and functionality of the LIS. Additional functional features of the LIS should be customized, and adequate funding is needed, especially for hospital-based laboratories.
Understanding Students' Instructional Delivery Preferences and Other Classroom Logistics
Authors: Mbuba Jospeter M. , Mugambi Florence
Published: September 2014

Students who enjoy the instructional techniques used by their instructors are more likely to graduate, but little has been done to identify student instructional preferences in higher education. Students in a mid-sized public university in the United States were surveyed to establish their preference for the various instructional delivery methods, classroom seating arrangements, levels of students' engagement, the use of guest-speakers and video shows, different test types, and continuous assessment methods. A comparison of the mean responses and correlation analyses showed that overall students preferred to be given access to class reading materials and chapter summaries ahead of the class session, a forward-facing seating arrangement with the instructor at the front, constant encouragement to ask questions, use of guest speakers and video shows, the multiple-choice type of tests, and take-home continuous assessment tests. Results for other classroom logistics are reported, their implications discussed, and recommendations provided. The future research direction is also suggested.
Embracing Complexity and Innovation in an Era of Globalization
Authors: Liu Laura B. , Baker Lottie L. , Milman Natalie B.
Published: September 2014

As globalization changes the characteristics of 21st century learners and the learning process itself, it is paramount to discover alternatives to streamlining, rewarding, and comparing talent in a few narrow standardized directions. Supporting the full potential of today's learners entails cultivating globally minded educators committed to exploring evolving meanings of diversity and gleaning from global complexities in nurturing fulfilled lifelong learners. This chapter contributes to forging global practitioner and researcher relationships by examining (a) how diversity is conceptualized by teacher candidates and teacher educators, (b) how Multicultural Teacher Preparation (MTP) is practiced across international settings, and (c) how policy shapes both perceptions of diversity and MTP practices. Findings show international diversity conceptualizations as narrow and complex, and MTP practices as primarily novel or established. Implications call for initiating innovative international collaborations in teacher preparation to explore complex, evolving definitions of diversity shaped by global and local discourses, and learning from each other about what is important and effective across international settings (Darling-Hammond & Lieberman, 2011).
Global Literacy Skills and Collaborative Strategies for Enhancing Professional Development for Teachers and Educators
Authors: Mutisya Philliph Masila , Rotich Jerono P.
Published: September 2014

Development trends in educational institutions in the 21st century reflect increased initiatives on internationalization and globalization. As the world becomes more interdependent and interconnected, globalization is also becoming a reality. This chapter addresses the theoretical and practical strategies that empower educators to meet the growth in institutional and professional development. The focus is to raise awareness of the need to re-conceptualize American educational institutions and professional development for K-20 educators so as to meet the demands of the 21st century international and global society. The proposed framework provides an effective approach and strategies for preparing teachers, faculty, and institutional leaders on developing a conceptual framework model that promotes international and global literacy and collaboration on professional development for K-20 teachers and educators.
Global Citizenship
Authors: Bigatti Steven J. , Sirk Emily , Bigatti Michael M. , Bigatti Silvia M.
Published: September 2014

This chapter explores the reality of the modern workplace: the demand for global citizens well-exceeds the supply, and while a manager in the 21st century must increasingly be a global citizen manager, this goal is seldom attained. The skills can be learned, but training has not been broadly implemented in schools or businesses, and typically considered the purview solely of study abroad programs or foreign assignments. The chapter presents some key tools on the technology roadmap for use in educating global citizens and training the 21st century manager.
Functioning Endometrium and Endometrioma in a Patient with Mayer-Rokitanski-Kuster-Hauser Syndrome
Authors: Kawano Yasushi , Hirakawa Tomoko , Nishida Masakazu , Yuge Akitoshi , Yano Mitsutake , Nasu Kaei , Narahara Hisashi
Published: September 2014

Mayer-Rokitanski-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a rare disease. A 27-year-old woman was admitted for primary amenorrhea and cyclic pelvic pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bilateral Müllerian remnants with functioning endometrium and a pelvic mass considered to be an endometriotic cyst. Bilateral Müllerian remnants were removed, and right ovarian cystectomy was performed at laparoscopic surgery. Accurate evaluation before the operation and informed consent are necessary to treat patients with MRKH syndrome.
The enduring effects of the Great Recession on wage growth in the United States
Authors: Baker Dean
Published: September 2014

Real wages in the United States have continued to stagnate in the years since the end of the Great Recession. This paper attributes this stagnation directly to the prolonged period of high unemployment. It notes research showing that the only period of sustained wage growth for most of the workforce in the last 3 decades was the period of unusually low unemployment in the late 1990s. Given current economic and political trends, it is unlikely that we will again see a level of unemployment low enough to support broad-based real wage growth in the near future.
Modern and Cenozoic records of seawater magnesium from foraminiferal Mg isotopes
Authors: Pogge von Strandmann P. A. E. , Forshaw J. , Schmidt D. N.
Published: September 2014

Abstract. Magnesium is an element critically involved in the carbon cycle, because weathering of Ca-Mg silicates removes atmospheric CO2 into rivers, and formation of Ca-Mg carbonates in the oceans removes carbon from the ocean-atmosphere system. Hence the Mg cycle holds the potential to provide valuable insights into Cenozoic climate-system history, and the shift during this time from a greenhouse to icehouse state. We present Mg isotope ratios for the past 40 Myr using planktic foraminifers as an archive. Modern foraminifera, which discriminate against elemental and isotopically heavy Mg during calcification, show no correlation between the Mg isotope composition (δ26Mg, relative to DSM-3) and temperature, Mg / Ca or other parameters such as carbonate saturation (ΔCO3). However, inter-species isotopic differences imply that only well-calibrated single species should be used for reconstruction of past seawater. Seawater δ26Mg inferred from the foraminiferal record decreased from ~0‰ at 15 Ma, to −0.83‰ at the present day, which coincides with increases in seawater lithium and oxygen isotope ratios. It strongly suggests that neither Mg concentrations nor isotope ratios are at steady state in modern oceans, given its ~10 Myr residence time. From these data, we have developed a dynamic box model to understand and constrain changes in Mg sources to the oceans (rivers) and Mg sinks (dolomitisation and hydrothermal alteration). Our estimates of seawater Mg concentrations through time are similar to those independently determined by pore waters and fluid inclusions. Modelling suggests that dolomite formation and the riverine Mg flux are the primary controls on the δ26Mg of seawater, while hydrothermal Mg removal and the δ26Mg of rivers are more minor controls. Using Mg riverine flux and isotope ratios inferred from the 87Sr / 86Sr record, the modelled Mg removal by dolomite formation shows minima in the Oligocene and at the present day (with decreasing trends from 15 Ma), both coinciding with rapid decreases in global temperatures.
Identification of Angiotensin I-converting enzyme Inhibitory Activities from traditional Mongolian fermented milk products
Authors: Bayarsaikhan D , Yamaki Kohji , Enkhtaivan G , Ichinkhorloo Z
Published: September 2014

Several angiotensen-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptites have been detected in milk products. There are many traditional milk products in Mongolia. For this study, some Mongolian milk products were collected, and the ACE inhibitory activities of these samples were tested; an active fraction was found in aaruul made from mare’s milk. After purification by dialysis and HPLC, the active fractions were isolated. The molecular weight of the active component was 362.05 M, as determined by mass spectrometry. An authentic standard was used to determine the IC50 value of the inhibitory activity. From 5’-GMP is not much higher than that of the active peptide in sour milk and some flavonoids. However, this is the first report that shows that 5’ –GMP inhibits ACE activity. These results will provide useful information for the development of hypertension therapy agents.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.175 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 65-68
Bioactive phenolic acids from Scorzonera radiata Fisch.
Authors: Tsevegsuren N , Proksch P , Wang Y , Davaakhuu G
Published: September 2014

Chromatographic separation of the crude extract obtained from the aerial parts of the Mongolian medicinal plant Scorzonera radiata yielded five new dihydrostilbenes [4], two new flavonoids, one new quinic acid derivative, as well as twenty known compounds including eight quinic acid derivatives, four flavonoids, two coumarins, five simple benzoic acids, and one monoterpene glycoside. We present here results on isolation and structural identification some active phenolic compounds from the Scorzonera radiata - eight quinic acid derivatives (quinic acid, 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 4,5-dicaffeoyl-epi-quinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoyl-epi-quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, 5-p-coumaroylquinic acid (trans), 5-p-coumaroylquinic acid (cis)). Quinic acid derivatives exhibited antioxidative activity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5564/mjc.v12i0.177 Mongolian Journal of Chemistry Vol.12 2011: 78-84
Influence of growth retardant on growth and development of Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. ex Klotzsch
Authors: Pobudkiewicz Anna
Published: September 2014

This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of single foliar flurprimidol treatment on morphology and transpiration of ‘Roman’ and ‘Freedom Red’ poinsettias. The growth retardant flurprimidol (Topflor 015 SL) was applied once as a foliar spray at concentrations of 5, 10 or 15 mg × dm-3 when lateral shoots were about 5 cm in length. Single foliar flurprimidol treatment was sufficient to inhibit stem elongation of both poinsettia cultivars. The degree of growth inhibition depended on cultivar and growth retardant concentration. As compared to the control, the shoots of flurprimidol treated ‘Roman’ and ‘Freedom Red’ plants were up to 44% and 37% shorter, respectively. The desirable plant heights for ‘Roman’ and ‘Freedom Red’ poinsettias were obtained with flurprimidol at concentrations of 5 and 10 mg × dm-3, respectively. The shoots of flurprimidol sprayed poinsettia were also more rigid and aligned relative to each other and thus the bracts on the plant were placed on the same level. The diameters of growth retardant treated poinsettias were up to 13% narrower. The leaf areas, petiole lengths, fresh and dry weights of ‘Roman’ and ‘Freedom Red’ poinsettias treated with flurprimidol were substantially smaller as compared to the control. The bract diameters of both poinsettia cultivars were only slightly affected by growth retardant application. Plants exposed to flurprimidol had also intensified green leaf pigmentation. There was almost no abscission of the oldest leaves in the low portions of growth retardant treated plants, compared to those of the control ones. Flurprimidol had no effect on transpiration rate per unit leaf area and stomatal conductance in both poinsettia cultivars. No phytotoxicity was observed in flurprimidol treated plants. Chemical name used: α-(1-methylethyl)-α-[4-(trifluromethoxy)phenyl]-5-pyrimidinemethanol (flurprimidol).
Cultivation of Vitis vinifera L. in the light of former publications and today in Poland
Authors: Pudelska Krystyna , Dudkiewicz Margot , Krawiec Paweł
Published: September 2014

In the countries of the Mediterranean Basin viticulture has been dealt with for centuries. It was known to the ancient civilizations of the Middle East and grapevines were widely planted in Greece and Rome. The vineyard was part of the utility garden, usually occupying large areas and at the same time being a connection with the landscape. Creeper vine was also used in decorative gardens as an ornamental plant for various types of buildings and garden structures. The Polish tradition of planting vineyards dates back to the Middle Ages and is mainly associated with the activities of monks, although it was not as common as in the countries of southern Europe. However, in Polish gardening literature and in the literature that describes the development of the art of gardening, you can find lots of tips on how to grow grapevines, their varieties and the descriptions of the vineyards.
Towards a Material Semiotics' Rhetoric
Authors: Mendonça Pedro Xavier ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: September 2014

The aim of this article is to develop the concept of a material semiotics’ rhetoric as a way to highlight a rhetoric that is not reducible to the symbolic and communicational domains, and which helps to shed light on the construction of features for mobile technologies such as cell phones. To reach this goal, this research makes an articulation between some main notions defining rhetoric as a knowledge and practice—being persuasive, seeking to reach an audience, the use of arguments, in a context of ambiguity and problematization—and the construction of technological artefacts according to Science, Technology, and Society studies.
Survival of Persons with Down Syndrome in Italy
Authors: Rosano Aldo
Published: September 2014

Down syndrome (DS) is a major cause of congenital malformation and disability. No updated data are available on life expectancy of persons with DS in Europe. We collected information on age, sex and area of birth of 3,217 persons with DS died from 1997 to 2009 in Italy. Survivals rates and mean survival time was calculated using a life tables calculated from cross sectional data. Some factors influencing the survival were also analysed using a semi-proportional hazard model. Survival rates of 91.4% at one year and 88.3% at ten years were found. Mean survival time at birth was 47.1 years (C.I. 95%: 46.5-47.7). There was 8-year significant difference in survival between north-central regions and southern regions. Male life expectancy was 46.9 years (C.I. 95%: 46.1-47.8), lower than females 47.3 years (C.I. 95%: 46.5-48.2) even though not statistically significant (p=0.23). Almost nine out ten children with DS now survive at least 10 years. Adequate educational and health service provisions needs to be made for them. The disadvantage of Down persons born in the Southern regions in terms of life expectancy is impressive. Quality of medical care provided in the South of Italy in the first months of life is the most likely determinant of the high mortality observed among persons with DS born in that area.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Survey of Healthcare Providers after Continuing Education
Authors: Evans Shirley F. , Tenkku Leigh E. , Kennedy Tay , Zoorob Roger , Rudeen P. Kevin
Published: September 2014

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) occur as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure and are commonly associated with intellectual disability. Maternal alcohol consumption affects fetal development resulting in numerous lifelong physical, mental, and neurobehavioral abnormalities. To promote prevention of prenatal alcohol exposure and intervention to mitigate alcohol’s postnatal effects, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides continuing education to healthcare providers through their FASD Regional Training Centers (RTCs). An online survey evaluated healthcare providers’ perceived competency after training. Cover letters with the survey link were electronically mailed to healthcare providers, who received training between 2002 and 2009 from the Midwest and Southeast RTCs. Eighty-two providers who treated women or children responded to the survey (7.5% response rate). Approximately 86% of providers who treated women have identified women ‘at risk’ for alcohol abuse with 90% indicating they would refer to Substance Abuse or Mental Health Services. However, over 25% perceived lack of training and limited time as barriers in treating women of childbearing age for at-risk drinking. Over 90% of providers who treated children reported feeling competent in recognizing FAS and other alcohol-related effects. Yet, only 23% of providers for children reported using FASD diagnostic schema and were more apt to use growth charts (70%) rather than lip philtrum guides (58%) or palpebral fissure length measurements (50%), tools typically used in FAS determination. These results suggest a need for training to focus on methodology that assists providers to easily incorporate screening, diagnostic, and treatment procedures into their daily practice
Lopinavir/r no longer recommended as a first‐line regimen: a comparative effectiveness analysis
Authors: Potard Valérie , Rey David , Poizot‐Martin Isabelle , Mokhtari Saadia , Pradier Christian , Rozenbaum Willy , Brun‐Vezinet Françoise , Costagliola Dominique ,   on behalf of the FHDH ANRS CO4 (French Hospital Database on HIV, Agence Nationale de Recherches sur le Sida, cohort 4)
Published: September 2014

Introduction

We compared the effectiveness of tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) combined with either lopinavir/r (LPV/r) or another recommended third drug in the 2010 French guidelines in antiretroviral‐naïve patients starting combination antiretroviral therapy in 2004–2008 in the French Hospital Database on HIV.

Methods

The outcomes were stop or switch of the third component, viral load (VL) <500 copies/ml, an increase of at least 100 CD4 cells/mm3, AIDS‐defining event and non‐AIDS‐defining hospitalization or death. Propensity scores were estimated by logistic regression based on the clinical centre and other confounders. In each clinical centre, each patient initiating LPV/r was matched with a patient initiating another third drug (efavirenz or atazanavir/r) and having a close propensity score. Cox's proportional hazards models were then used, with treatment as covariate. Time was right‐censored at four years.

Results

1269 patients started LPV/r plus TDF/FTC, and 890 could be matched to 890 patients receiving another third drug. Baseline characteristics were well balanced between these two groups. LPV/r was associated with a higher risk of third drug stop (hazard ratio (HR): 1.69; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.42–2.00) and with less rapid viral suppression (HR: 0.83; 95% CI, 0.72–0.95). There was no difference in the time required for a CD4 cell increment of at least 100/mm3, or to the occurrence of an AIDS‐defining event. Non‐AIDS‐defining hospitalizations or deaths were more frequent with LPV/r (HR: 1.79; 95% CI, 1.33–2.39).

Conclusions

For first‐line therapy, in this observational setting, TDF/FTC plus LPV/r were less durable than TDF/FTC plus another recommended third drug, led to a less rapid viral suppression and were associated with a higher risk of non‐AIDS morbidity.
Fringe proteins modulate Notch-ligand cis and trans interactions to specify signaling states
Authors: LeBon Lauren , Lee Tom V , Sprinzak David , Jafar-Nejad Hamed , Elowitz Michael B
Published: September 2014

The Notch signaling pathway consists of multiple types of receptors and ligands, whose interactions can be tuned by Fringe glycosyltransferases. A major challenge is to determine how these components control the specificity and directionality of Notch signaling in developmental contexts. Here, we analyzed same-cell (cis) Notch-ligand interactions for Notch1, Dll1, and Jag1, and their dependence on Fringe protein expression in mammalian cells. We found that Dll1 and Jag1 can cis-inhibit Notch1, and Fringe proteins modulate these interactions in a way that parallels their effects on trans interactions. Fringe similarly modulated Notch-ligand cis interactions during Drosophila development. Based on these and previously identified interactions, we show how the design of the Notch signaling pathway leads to a restricted repertoire of signaling states that promote heterotypic signaling between distinct cell types, providing insight into the design principles of the Notch signaling system, and the specific developmental process of Drosophila dorsal-ventral boundary formation.
Sequence co-evolution gives 3D contacts and structures of protein complexes
Authors: Hopf Thomas A , Schärfe Charlotta P I , Rodrigues João P G L M , Green Anna G , Kohlbacher Oliver , Sander Chris , Bonvin Alexandre M J J , Marks Debora S
Published: September 2014

Protein–protein interactions are fundamental to many biological processes. Experimental screens have identified tens of thousands of interactions, and structural biology has provided detailed functional insight for select 3D protein complexes. An alternative rich source of information about protein interactions is the evolutionary sequence record. Building on earlier work, we show that analysis of correlated evolutionary sequence changes across proteins identifies residues that are close in space with sufficient accuracy to determine the three-dimensional structure of the protein complexes. We evaluate prediction performance in blinded tests on 76 complexes of known 3D structure, predict protein–protein contacts in 32 complexes of unknown structure, and demonstrate how evolutionary couplings can be used to distinguish between interacting and non-interacting protein pairs in a large complex. With the current growth of sequences, we expect that the method can be generalized to genome-wide elucidation of protein–protein interaction networks and used for interaction predictions at residue resolution.
How IGF-1 activates its receptor
Authors: Kavran Jennifer M , McCabe Jacqueline M , Byrne Patrick O , Connacher Mary Katherine , Wang Zhihong , Ramek Alexander , Sarabipour Sarvenaz , Shan Yibing , Shaw David E , Hristova Kalina , Cole Philip A , Leahy Daniel J
Published: September 2014

The type I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) is involved in growth and survival of normal and neoplastic cells. A ligand-dependent conformational change is thought to regulate IGF1R activity, but the nature of this change is unclear. We point out an underappreciated dimer in the crystal structure of the related Insulin Receptor (IR) with Insulin bound that allows direct comparison with unliganded IR and suggests a mechanism by which ligand regulates IR/IGF1R activity. We test this mechanism in a series of biochemical and biophysical assays and find the IGF1R ectodomain maintains an autoinhibited state in which the TMs are held apart. Ligand binding releases this constraint, allowing TM association and unleashing an intrinsic propensity of the intracellular regions to autophosphorylate. Enzymatic studies of full-length and kinase-containing fragments show phosphorylated IGF1R is fully active independent of ligand and the extracellular-TM regions. The key step triggered by ligand binding is thus autophosphorylation.
Optical and Structural Properties of Ultra‐thin Gold Films
Authors: Kossoy Anna , Merk Virginia , Simakov Denis , Leosson Kristjan , Kéna‐Cohen Stéphane , Maier Stefan A.
Published: September 2014

Realizing laterally continuous ultra‐thin gold films on transparent substrates is a challenge of significant technological importance. In the present work, formation of ultra‐thin gold films on fused silica is studied, demonstrating how suppression of island formation and reduction of plasmonic absorption can be achieved by treating substrates with (3‐mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane prior to deposition. Void‐free films with deposition thickness as low as 5.4 nm are realized and remain structurally stable at room temperature. Based on detailed structural analysis of the films by specular and diffuse X‐ray reflectivity measurements, it is shown that optical transmission properties of continuous ultra‐thin films can be accounted for using the bulk dielectric function of gold. However, it is important to take into account the non‐abrupt transition zone between the metal and the surrounding dielectrics, which extends through several lattice constants for the laterally continuous ultra‐thin films (film thickness below 10 nm). This results in a significant reduction of optical transmission, as compared to the case of abrupt interfaces. These findings imply that the atomic‐scale interface structure plays an important role when continuous ultra‐thin films are considered, e.g., as semi‐transparent electrical contacts, since optical transmission deviates significantly from the theoretical predictions for ideal films.
Cooperative Catalysis with Iron and a Chiral Brønsted Acid for Asymmetric Reductive Amination of Ketones
Authors: Zhou Shaolin , Fleischer Steffen , Jiao Haijun , Junge Kathrin , Beller Matthias
Published: September 2014

The direct asymmetric reductive amination (DARA) of ketones with anilines is described by combining a chiral Brønsted acid (TRIP) and the non‐chiral Knölker iron complex as the catalyst system. In situ‐formed imines are reduced with molecular hydrogen to give chiral amines in high yields (90%) and enantioselectivities of up to 99% ee.

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Metal‐Free 2,3‐Dichloro‐5,6‐dicyano‐1,4‐benzoquinone (DDQ)‐Mediated Cross‐Dehydrogenative‐Coupling (CDC) of Benzylic C(sp3)H Bonds and Vinylic C(sp2)H Bonds: Efficient One‐Pot Synthesis of 1H‐Indenes
Authors: Wang He , Zhao Yu‐Long , Li Lei , Li Sha‐Sha , Liu Qun
Published: September 2014

A novel 2,3‐dichloro‐5,6‐dicyano‐1,4‐benzoquinone (DDQ)‐promoted intermolecular cross‐dehydrogenative coupling reaction of alkyl C(sp3)H bonds not adjacent to heteroatoms with vinylic C(sp2)H bonds has been developed. This new strategy provides a new, environmentally friendly, and efficient protocol for the synthesis of polysubstituted 1H‐indenes in a single step via a radical‐initiated two C(sp2)C(sp2) and C(sp2)C(sp3) bond formation process.

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Heterogeneous Copper‐Catalyzed Cascade Three‐Component Reaction of Amines, Carbon Disulfide and 2‐Iodoanilines Leading to 2‐Aminobenzothiazoles
Authors: Zhao Hong , He Wen , Yao Ruiya , Cai Mingzhong
Published: September 2014

The heterogeneous cascade three‐component reaction of amines, carbon disulfide (CS2) and 2‐iodoanilines was achieved in dimethylformamide (DMF) at 110 °C in the presence of 10 mol% of 3‐(2‐aminoethylamino)propyl‐functionalized MCM‐41‐immobilized copper complex [MCM‐41‐2N‐CuCl] using potassium carbonate (K2CO3) as base, yielding a variety of 2‐aminobenzothiazoles in good to excellent yields. This heterogeneous copper catalyst influences the selectivity of the reaction and can be recovered and recycled by a simple filtration of the reaction solution and used for at least 10 consecutive trials without any decreases in activity.

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Retracted: tert‐Butyl Hydroperoxide and Tetrabutylammonium Iodide‐ Promoted Free Radical Cyclization of α‐Azido‐N‐arylamides
Authors: Li Dianjun , Yang Tonghao , Su Hailin , Yu Wei
Published: September 2014

The oxidizing system of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) and tetrabutylammonium iodide (TBAI) is capable of engendering α‐(aminocarbonyl)iminyl radicals from α‐azido‐N‐phenylacetamides. These iminyl radicals preferably undergo intramolecular attack on the benzene ring to give azaspirocyclohexadienyl radicals, which are readily captured by O2 under an oxygen atmosphere to yield azaspirocyclohexadienones. In the absence of oxygen, the reaction will afford quinoxalin‐2‐one products. The generation of α‐(aminocarbonyl)iminyl radicals is proposed to involve an initial deprotonation and denitrogenation, and subsequent oxidation of thus formed imine intermediates by tert‐butoxy radical and/or tert‐butyl peroxyl radical.

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Reusable, Highly Active Heterogeneous Palladium Catalyst by Convenient Self‐Encapsulation Cross‐Linking Polymerization for Multiple CarbonCarbon Cross‐Coupling Reactions at ppm to ppb Palladium Loadings
Authors: Dong Zhongmin , Ye Zhibin
Published: September 2014

Designing reusable high‐performance heterogeneous palladium (Pd) catalysts via convenient, economic synthesis is of great importance to the industrial applications of various carbon‐carbon cross‐coupling reactions. We demonstrate herein a convenient one‐pot self‐encapsulation synthesis of a heterogeneous Pd catalyst [Pd@PDEB, PDEB=poly(1,3‐diethynylbenzene)] directly from commercially available, economic precursors. In the synthesis, the formation of the cross‐linked polymer networks and Pd encapsulation are accomplished simultaneously, turning a homogeneous Pd polymerization catalyst into the heterogeneous cross‐coupling catalyst. As a unique, practical heterogeneous catalyst, Pd@PDEB shows remarkably high activity, high reusability, and high versatility towards at least four types of cross‐coupling reactions (Suzuki–Miyaura, Stille, allylic arylation, and Mizoroki–Heck reactions) with even difficult reactants (aryl chlorides and heteroaryl halides) under aerobic conditions with Pd loadings down to ppm or even ppb levels. Evidences from hot filtration and 3‐phase tests demonstrate the heterogeneous nature of the catalyst with very low Pd leaching and negligible contributions of leached homogeneous Pd species towards the coupling reactions.

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Elaboration and Characterization of Coaxial Electrospun Poly(ε‐Caprolactone)/Gelatin Nanofibers for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Pereira Ildeu H. L. , Ayres Eliane , Averous Luc , Schlatter Guy , Hebraud Anne , Mendes Sônia Tereza O. L. , Oréfice Rodrigo L.
Published: September 2014

Coaxial poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL)/gelatin nanofibers were successfully fabricated by electrospinning, using 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol (TFE) as a solvent. The morphology of the PCL/gelatin coaxial fibers was evaluated using attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscope, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. The disappearance of gelatin absorption bands in FTIR spectrum after the mat washing step suggested that coaxial nanofibers were obtained. The coaxial morphology was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The influences of PCL concentration, applied voltage, and feed rate on the characteristics of the PCL core were analyzed in correlation with the structure of the nanofibers. The morphology of the coaxial fibers was observed to be mainly affected by the PCL solution concentration. Extraction of the PCL core using dichloromethane allowed the preparation of hollow gelatin nanofibers. The replacement of TFE by a formic acid–acetic acid (1:1) system as a less toxic solvent also successfully resulted in the preparation of coaxial PCL–gelatin nanofibers.