bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking environmental stress, feeding‐shifts and the ‘island syndrome’: a nutritional challenge hypothesis
Authors: Blanco Guillermo , Laiolo Paola , Fargallo Juan A.
Published: October 2013

Adaptation to insular environments often arises from changes and innovations in feeding behaviour allowing expanded foraging habits and an increased niche breadth. These shifts and innovations have traditionally been thought to be related to community‐wide processes, but could also be the direct result of environmental constraints determining the abundance, availability and suitability of a particular food providing specific nutrients for survival, growth and reproduction. The link between environmental constraints on nutrients and life‐history of insular organisms can help in understanding the convergent set of adaptations sustaining the ‘island syndrome’. We tested whether a potential insular nutrient shortage can drive diet shifts, nutritional biochemistry and growth stress, thus contributing to the modulation of life‐history traits in a large passerine bird, the red‐billed chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax). Results supported the insular nutritional challenge hypothesis, linked to an insular insect shortage. An insect shortage may in turn have determined the reduced consumption of this source of protein but increased consumption of other arthropods, and notably fruits, by insular nestlings and fully‐grown individuals. Island birds showed comparatively low circulating levels of nutrients and metabolites associated with the consumption of protein‐rich animal matter as opposed to carbohydrate‐rich vegetal matter, as well as high growth stress reflected in poor feather quality. We propose that feeding shifts derived from an insular insect shortage may exert a strong influence on the allocation of limited time, energy and nutrients among competing functions associated with physiological changes and investment in reproduction and self‐maintenance. Traits and patterns generally defining the insular syndrome could thus be linked to particular insular nutrient constraints forcing feeding shifts and nutritional challenges with physiological, demographic and life‐history consequences.
Large13C/12C and small15N/14N isotope fractionation in an experimental detrital foodweb (litter–fungi–collembolans)
Authors: Potapov Anton M. , Semenina Eugenia E. , Kurakov Alexander V. , Tiunov Alexei V.
Published: October 2013

Correctly estimating the trophic fractionation factors (Δ15N and Δ13C) in controlled laboratory conditions is essential for the application of stable isotope analysis in studies on the trophic structure of soil communities. Laboratory experiments usually suggest large15N/14N and small13C/12C trophic fractionation, but in field studies litter‐dwelling microarthropods and other invertebrates are consistently enriched in13C relative to plant litter. In the present study, we report data from two laboratory experiments investigating both fungi–collembolans and litter–fungi–collembolans systems. In the fungi–collembolans system, Δ15N and Δ13C averaged 1.4 ± 0.1 and 1.0 ± 0.2 ‰, respectively. In microcosms with fungi‐inoculated litter, the difference in δ15N between collembolans and plant litter averaged 1.5 ± 0.2 ‰, confirming the relatively small15N/14N trophic fractionation at the basal level of detrital foodwebs reported in numerous field studies. In full agreement with field observations, the difference in δ13C between bulk litter and collembolans in laboratory microcosms averaged 3.6 ± 0.1 ‰ and only little depended on collembolan species identities or the presence of water‐soluble compounds in the litter. We conclude that increased δ13C values typical of litter‐dwelling decomposers are largely determined by an increased13C content in saprotrophic microorganisms.
Treatment of Chronic Biceps Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Dillon Mark T. , King Jeffrey C.
Published: October 2013

Repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures has become widely accepted. Unfortunately, care of chronic injuries remains a challenge to the orthopedic surgeon. Patients with chronic ruptures often present complaining of weakness in elbow flexion and supination. Nonoperative management of these injuries does not restore function to the elbow. Tenodesis of the biceps tendon to the brachialis may improve flexion strength but does not reliably improve supination weakness. Addressing these injuries through restoration of anatomy, either with direct repair of the tendon to the radial tuberosity or with the use of a tendon graft to regain length, results in improved functional outcomes. Complications rates appear to be increased when surgery is performed in chronic injuries compared to those operated upon acutely.
Metacarpal Fractures: Treatment and Complications
Authors: Kollitz Kathleen M. , Hammert Warren C. , Vedder Nicholas B. , Huang Jerry I.
Published: October 2013

Metacarpal fractures comprise between 18–44 % of all hand fractures. Non-thumb metacarpals account for around 88 % of all metacarpal fractures, with the fifth finger most commonly involved [ 19 ]. The majority of metacarpal fractures are isolated injuries, which are simple, closed, and stable. While many metacarpal fractures do well without surgery, there is a paucity of literature and persistent controversy to guide the treating physician on the best treatment algorithm. The purpose of this article is to review non-thumb metacarpal anatomy and treatment protocols for nonoperative management of stable fractures, and compare existing literature on surgical techniques for treatment of acute fractures and complications.
Carpal Tunnel Release Using the Paine Retinaculotome Inserted through a Palmar Incision
Authors: Fernandes Carlos Henrique , Nakachima Luis Renato , Hirakawa Celso Kiyoshi , Santos João Batista Gomes dos , Faloppa Flavio
Published: October 2013

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11552-013-9566-x) contains a video, which is available to authorized users

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most commonly diagnosed and treated entrapment neuropathy. There is no consensus regarding the optimal technique for carpal tunnel release. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the surgical treatment of CTS by a small palmar incision and utilization of Paine retinaculotome to divide the transverse carpal ligament.

Methods

In this technical note, we describe the use of a retinaculotome described by Paine in 1955, through a palmar approach.

Discussion

Open, minimally invasive and endoscopic surgical techniques have all been described as treatment options for CTS, and short-term success with these methods is well established. During the last decade, less invasive techniques have been developed in order to reduce the incidence of pillar pain and tender scars. We have used a mini-palmar incision and the Paine retinaculotome for carpal tunnel release since 1994. The goals of surgery are to create a small incision that permits a patient to have early motion and return to activity.

Conclusion

After many years, no permanent nerve or vascular damage has been reported. This method has demonstrated itself to be efficient and safe in the treatment of the carpal tunnel syndrome.
Value of fusion of PET and MRI in the detection of intra-pelvic recurrence of gynecological tumor: comparison with 18F-FDG contrast-enhanced PET/CT and pelvic MRI
Authors: Kitajima Kazuhiro , Suenaga Yuko , Ueno Yoshiko , Kanda Tomonori , Maeda Tetsuo , Makihara Natsuko , Ebina Yasuhiko , Yamada Hideto , Takahashi Satoru , Sugimura Kazuro
Published: October 2013

Background

To evaluate the diagnostic value of retrospective image fusion from pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) in detecting intra-pelvic recurrence of gynecological tumor.

Methods

Thirty patients with a suspicion of recurrence of gynecological malignancy underwent inline contrast-enhanced PET/computed tomography (CT) and pelvic contrast-enhanced MRI for restaging. Diagnostic performance about the local recurrence, pelvic lymph node and bone metastasis and peritoneal lesion of PET/low-dose non-enhanced CT (PET/ldCT), PET/full-dose contrast-enhanced CT (PET/ceCT), contrast-enhanced MRI, and retrospective image fusion from PET and MRI (fused PET/MRI) were evaluated by two experienced readers. Final diagnoses were obtained by histopathological examinations, radiological imaging and clinical follow-up for at least 6 months. McNemar test was employed for statistical analysis.

Results

Documented positive locally recurrent disease, pelvic lymph node and bone metastases, and peritoneal dissemination were present in 53.3, 26.7, 10.0, and 16.7 %, respectively. Patient-based sensitivity for detecting local recurrence, pelvic lymph node and bone metastasis and peritoneal lesion were 87.5, 87.5, 100 and 80.0 %, respectively, for fused PET/MRI, 87.5, 62.5, 66.7 and 60.0 %, respectively, for contrast-enhanced MRI, 62.5, 87.5, 66.7 and 80.0 %, respectively, for PET/ceCT, and 50.0, 87.5, 66.7 and 60.0 %, respectively, for PET/ldCT. The sensitivity of diagnosing local recurrence by fused PET/MRI was significantly better than that of PET/ldCT (p = 0.041). The patient-based sensitivity, specificity and accuracy for the detection of intra-pelvic recurrence/metastasis were 91.3, 100 and 93.3 % for fused PET/MRI, 82.6, 100 and 86.7 % for contrast-enhanced MRI, 82.6, 100 and 86.7 % for PET/ceCT and 78.3, 85.7 and 80.0 % for PET/ldCT.

Conclusion

Fused PET/MRI combines the individual advantages of MRI and PET, and is a valuable technique for assessment of intra-pelvic recurrence of gynecological cancers.
Liver‐type fatty acid binding protein interacts with hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α
Authors: McIntosh Avery L. , Petrescu Anca D. , Hostetler Heather A. , Kier Ann B. , Schroeder Friedhelm
Published: October 2013

Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4α) regulates liver type fatty acid binding protein (L‐FABP) gene expression. Conversely as shown herein, L‐FABP structurally and functionally also interacts with HNF4α. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between Cy3‐HNF4α (donor) and Cy5‐L‐FABP (acceptor) as well as FRET microscopy detected L‐FABP in close proximity (∼80 Å) to HNF4α, binding with high affinity Kd
∼250–300 nM. Circular dichroism (CD) determined that the HNF4α/L‐FABP interaction altered protein secondary structure. Finally, L‐FABP potentiated transactivation of HNF4α in COS7 cells. Taken together, these data suggest that L‐FABP provides a signaling path to HNF4α activation in the nucleus.
miR‐338‐3p suppresses neuroblastoma proliferation, invasion and migration through targeting PREX2a
Authors: Chen Xin , Pan Min , Han Lulu , Lu Hongting , Hao Xiwei , Dong Qian
Published: October 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNA) can regulate cancer cell proliferation and metastasis. Here, we show that miR‐338‐3p is down‐regulated in metastatic tumor tissues compared to primary tumors, and that that miR‐338‐3p can inhibit cell proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest, as well as restrain cell migration and invasion. PREX2a is confirmed as a direct target of miR‐338‐3p. Knockdown of PREX2a inhibits cell proliferation, migration and invasion through the PTEN/Akt pathway. miR‐338‐3p‐dependent inhibition of proliferation and invasion can be rescued by PREXa. Overall, this study demonstrates that miR‐338‐3p affects the PTEN/Akt pathway by down‐regulating PREX2a. This newly identified function of miR‐338‐3p provides novel insights into neuroblastoma and may foster therapeutic applications.
Mesdc2 plays a key role in cell‐surface expression of Lrp4 and postsynaptic specialization in myotubes
Authors: Hoshi Taisuke , Tezuka Tohru , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Iemura Shun-ichiro , Natsume Tohru , Yamanashi Yuji
Published: October 2013

Low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 4 (Lrp4) is essential for pre‐ and post‐synaptic specialization at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), an indispensable synapse between a motor nerve and skeletal muscle. Muscle‐specific receptor tyrosine kinase MuSK must form a complex with Lrp4 to organize postsynaptic specialization at NMJs. Here, we show that the chaperon Mesdc2 binds to the intracellular form of Lrp4 and promotes its glycosylation and cell‐surface expression. Furthermore, knockdown of Mesdc2 suppresses cell‐surface expression of Lrp4, activation of MuSK, and postsynaptic specialization in muscle cells. These results suggest that Mesdc2 plays an essential role in NMJ formation by promoting Lrp4 maturation.
Glypican‐3 antibodies: A new therapeutic target for liver cancer
Authors: Feng Mingqian , Ho Mitchell
Published: October 2013

Glypican‐3 (GPC3) is an emerging therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), even though the biological function of GPC3 remains elusive. Currently human (MDX‐1414 and HN3) and humanized mouse (GC33 and YP7) antibodies that target GPC3 for HCC treatment are under different stages of preclinical or clinical development. Humanized mouse antibody GC33 is being evaluated in a phase II clinical trial. Human antibodies MDX‐1414 and HN3 are under different stages of preclinical evaluation. Here, we summarize current evidence for GPC3 as a new target in liver cancer, discuss both its oncogenic function and its mode of actions for current antibodies, and evaluate potential challenges for GPC3‐targeted anti‐cancer therapies.
Rim15‐dependent activation of Hsf1 and Msn2/4 transcription factors by direct phosphorylation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Lee Peter , Kim Myung Sup , Paik Sang-Min , Choi Seung-Hwan , Cho Bo-Ram , Hahn Ji-Sook
Published: October 2013

Rim15 kinase, a downstream effector of PKA and TORC1 signaling pathways, initiates the quiescent program upon nutrient starvation via induction of genes whose expression depends on transcription factors Msn2, Msn4, and Gis1. Here, we demonstrate that Rim15 also induces expression of Hsf1 target genes upon glucose depletion by both transcriptional activation and stabilization of the transcripts. Rim15 phosphorylates Hsf1 in vitro, suggesting that Rim15 might directly activate Hsf1. In addition, Igo1 and Igo2, Rim15 substrate proteins involved in mRNA stabilization, regulate mRNA levels of Hsf1 target genes. We also show that Rim15 can phosphorylate Msn2, but not Gis1, in vitro, implying different mechanisms for the activation of these transcription factors.
Claudin‐2 is an independent negative prognostic factor in breast cancer and specifically predicts early liver recurrences
Authors: Kimbung Siker , Kovács Anikó , Bendahl Pär-Ola , Malmström Per , Fernö Mårten , Hatschek Thomas , Hedenfalk Ingrid
Published: October 2013

Background

Predicting any future metastatic site of early‐stage breast cancer is important as it significantly influences the prognosis of advanced disease. This study aimed at investigating the potential of claudin‐2, over‐expressed in breast cancer liver metastases, as a biomarker for predicting liver metastatic propensity in primary breast cancer.

Methods

Claudin‐2 expression was analyzed in two independent cohorts. Cohort 1 included 304 women with metastatic breast cancer diagnosed between 2002 and 2007, while cohort 2 included 237 premenopausal women with early‐stage node‐negative breast cancer diagnosed between 1991 and 1994. Global transcriptional profiling of fine‐needle aspirates from metastases was performed, followed by immunohistochemical analyses in archival primary tumor tissue. Associations between claudin‐2 expression and relapse site were assessed by univariable and multivariable Cox regression models including conventional prognostic factors. Two‐sided statistical tests were used.

Results

CLDN2 was significantly up‐regulated (P < 0.001) in liver metastases compared to other metastatic sites. Claudin‐2 protein was more frequently expressed in primary tumors from patients who subsequently developed liver metastases (P = 0.02) and high expression was associated with a shorter metastasis‐free interval (cohort 1, HR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.0–1.9; cohort 2, HR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.3–3.5). Specifically, a significantly shorter interval between primary tumor diagnosis and liver‐specific recurrence was observed among patients with high levels of claudin‐2 expression in the primary tumor (cohort 1, HR = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.3–3.9).

Conclusion

These results suggest a novel role for claudin‐2 as a prognostic biomarker with the ability to predict not only the likelihood of a breast cancer recurrence, but more interestingly, the liver metastatic potential of the primary tumor.
Slipping motion of large neutrally buoyant particles in turbulence
Authors: Cisse Mamadou , Homann Holger , Bec Jérémie
Published: October 2013

Direct numerical simulations are used to investigate the individual dynamics of large spherical particles suspended in a developed homogeneous turbulent flow. A definition of the direction of the particle motion relative to the surrounding flow is introduced and used to construct the mean fluid velocity profile around the particle. This leads to an estimate of the particle slipping velocity and its associated Reynolds number. The flow modifications due to the particle are then studied. The particle is responsible for a shadowing effect that occurs in the wake up to distances of the order of its diameter: the particle calms turbulent fluctuations and reduces the energy dissipation rate compared to its average value in the bulk. Dimensional arguments are presented to draw an analogy between particle effects on turbulence and wall flows. Evidence is obtained for the presence of a logarithmic sublayer at distances between the thickness of the viscous boundary layer and the particle diameter ${D}_{p} $. Finally, asymptotic arguments are used to relate the viscous sublayer quantities to the particle size and the properties of the outer turbulence. It is shown in particular that the skin-friction Reynolds number behaves as $R{e}_{\tau } \propto {({D}_{p} / \eta )}^{4/ 3} $.
Identification of sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with the levels of human β-defensin-1 and human β-defensin-2 in the human milk of Han Chinese
Authors: Wang Xiao-Fang , Cao Rui-Ming , Li Jing , Wu Jing , Wu Sheng-Mei , Chen Tong-Xin
Published: October 2013

Human milk provides infants with various immune molecules. The objective of the present study was to measure human β-defensin-1 (hBD-1) and human β-defensin-2 (hBD-2) levels in the colostrum and mature milk of healthy Han Chinese, to identify factors regulating milk hBD-1 and hBD-2 expression and to explore the potential protective effect of milk hBD-1 and hBD-2 on infants. A total of 100 mothers and their babies were recruited into the study. Sociodemographic characteristics and other factors were obtained by a questionnaire. Babies were followed up for a period of 6 months. Colostrum samples (n100) and mature milk samples (n82) were collected by hand expression. The hBD-1 and hBD-2 concentrations were measured by ELISA. The hBD-1 and hBD-2 levels differed in the colostrum and mature milk. In the colostrum, the concentration ranges of hBD-1 and hBD-2 were 1·04–12·81 μg/ml and 0·31–19·12 ng/ml, respectively. In mature milk, the hBD-1 and hBD-2 levels were 1·03–31·76 ng/ml and 52·65–182·29 pg/ml, respectively. Several independent factors influence their production. The multivariable analysis showed a strong association between pre-pregnancy BMI and hBD-1 levels in the colostrum (P= 0·001), mode of delivery was significantly associated with hBD-2 levels in the colostrum (P= 0·006) and gestational age was significantly associated with hBD-1 levels in mature milk (P= 0·010). During the first 6 months of life, the incidence rate of upper respiratory infection was found to be less in the high-colostrum hBD-1 group than in the low-colostrum hBD-1 group (χ2= 4·995,P= 0·025). The present study suggested that the abundance of hBD-1 in the colostrum may have a protective function against upper respiratory infection for infants younger than 6 months.
ELITE STRATEGIES, CIVIL SOCIETY, AND SECTARIAN IDENTITIES IN POSTWAR LEBANON
Authors: Clark Janine A. , Salloukh Bassel F.
Published: October 2013

This article explains the endurance of sectarian identities and modes of political mobilization in Lebanon after the civil war. This is done by examining three case studies that demonstrate a recursive relation between sectarian elites and civil society actors: on one side of this relation, sectarian elites pursue their political and socioeconomic interests at the expense of civil society organizations (CSOs); on the other side, civil society actors instrumentalize the sectarian political system and its resources to advance their own organizational or personal advantage. These mutually reinforcing dynamics enable sectarian elites to penetrate, besiege, or co-opt CSOs as well as to extend their clientelist networks to CSOs that should otherwise lead the effort to establish cross-sectarian ties and modes of political mobilization or that expressly seek to challenge the sectarian system. The article fills a gap in the literature on sectarianism in postwar Lebanon and helps explain a puzzle identified by Ashutosh Varshney in the theoretical debate on ethnic conflict, namely the reasons behind the “stickiness” of historically constructed ethnic identities.
Theorizing Self-Destructive Violence
Authors: Bargu Banu
Published: October 2013

The first image that the question of violence in the Middle East conjures up, especially in the West, is that of the suicide bomber. This association, etched into the political imaginary particularly over the course of the last two decades, is due neither to the number of victims suicide bombing creates (more conventional weapons of war can claim as many or more victims), nor to the identity of its victims (conventional weapons are also often directed at civilians). Rather, the potency of the image of the suicide bomber is connected to the simultaneously self-destructive and other-directed form that this act of violence takes. If the Orientalist impulse that has raised the image of the suicide bomber to iconic status is deeply problematic, it nonetheless constitutes an involuted acknowledgement of a reality: the significant rise in self-destructive violence (and not just in the Middle East). I have in mind practices such as hunger striking, self-immolation, and fatal self-mutilation, which constitute an emergent repertoire of struggle that has come to mark a certain current of radical politics around the globe. Those modalities of self-destructive violence that are not directed at others are overshadowed by suicide bombing.
Violence, Resistance, and Gezi Park
Authors: Arat Yeşim
Published: October 2013

As a student of politics whose primary research interest is in women's political participation in Turkey, my engagement with the study of violence is through the lens of gender. In gender studies, “violence” is arguably the most important critical concept for the articulation of the personal as the political. Women's recognition that violence in their personal lives and intimate relationships needed to be problematized in the political realm and transformed through public debate was a revolutionary development. Bringing this recognition into the canon of political thought has been a major contribution of feminist theorists.
Sacral Suicides, Unpunishable Killings, Rites of Power
Authors: McDougall James
Published: October 2013

Studies of violence relating to the Middle East have sometimes done more harm than they have explained. Like the intended effects of the U.S. military's doctrine of “rapid dominance,” compared by its proponents to “tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes . . . famine and disease,” violence in the Middle East would appear to be “incomprehensible,” though less to “the people at large” who are affected by it than to its prolific theoreticians. Over the past two decades, much of the literature on the region as a “cauldron of war”—generating five times its share (by population size) of total global conflict since the mid-20th century—has tended to update and propagate well-known mythologies of primitivism, authoritarian personalities, and ancient hatreds. The significance of such mythopoeia has been its capacity to realize, at least in part, the conditions of its own truthfulness by shaping perception and policy, framing and enabling the infliction of a new wave of warfare on the region. Much contemporary writing on post–Cold War global crisis, the geopolitics of instability, regional conflict, and the future of warfare has not only signally failed to understand the dynamics of the Middle East but has actively contributed to the spread of violence in the region.
Production and carcass traits of purebred Nordic Red and Nordic Red×beef breed crossbred bulls
Authors: HUUSKONEN A. , PESONEN M. , KÄMÄRÄINEN H. , KAUPPINEN R.
Published: October 2013

The objective of the current study is to determine the beef production traits of purebred Nordic Red (NR) and NR×beef breed crossbred bulls. The data collected from slaughterhouses included observations of 164 812 purebred NR, 2329 NR×Aberdeen Angus, 1466 NR×Blonde d'Aquitaine, 1044 NR×Charolais, 782 NR×Hereford, 5293 NR×Limousin and 1270 NR×Simmental bulls. For estimating valuable cuttings, a separate dataset including a total of 16 827 observations was collected. Crossbreeding NR cows with late-maturing breeds (Blonde d'Aquitaine, Charolais, Limousin or Simmental) had favourable effects on carcass gain, conformation and proportion of high-value joints of the progeny when compared with purebred NR bulls. No advantages in proportion of valuable cuttings seemed to be obtained by crossbreeding with Aberdeen Angus or Hereford breeds, while the improvements in gain and conformation were intermediate compared with the late-maturing crossbreds. A feeding experiment comprised 36 bulls: nine purebred NR, nine NR×Aberdeen Angus (NR×Ab), nine NR×Limousin (NR×Li) and nine NR×Blonde d'Aquitaine (NR×Ba). The animals were offered total mixed ration (TMR) ad libitum. The dry matter (DM) of the TMR consisted of grass silage (500 g/kg DM), rolled barley (425 g/kg DM) and rapeseed meal (75 g/kg DM). There were no differences in DM, energy or nutrient intakes between NR and crossbred bulls during the feeding experiment. Instead, the carcass gain of the NR×Ba bulls was 13% higher than that of the pure NR bulls. In addition, the carcass gain of the NR×Li bulls tended to be 8% higher than that of the NR bulls. The feed (kg DM/kg carcass gain) and energy (MJ/kg carcass gain) conversion rates of the NR×Ba bulls tended to be better compared with purebred NR bulls. There were no differences in feed or energy conversion between NR, NR×Ab and NR×Li bulls. In conclusion, crossbreeding, especially with late-maturing bulls, largely improved carcass production compared with purebred NR bulls. The feeding experiment indicates that there is no difference in DM intake between pure NR and crossbred bulls when animals are fed with high-energy rations. Therefore, differences in growth and carcass traits describe well the economic superiority of crossbreds compared with pure dairy bulls from beef producers’ point of view.
The Khmer Rouge Tribunal: A Politically Compromised Search for Justice
Authors: Un Kheang
Published: October 2013

In 1993, Cambodian history turned a very significant corner with the promulgation of a new liberal constitution aimed at moving the country forward from its turbulent past. Many challenges remained, however; one of which was how to deal with the most horrific crimes of the “despicable Pol Pot” regime (1975–79)—as Cambodians called it—during which the radical pursuit of utopian revolutionary ideas cost roughly two million Cambodians their lives. Searching for mechanisms to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes is seldom simple, as this essay, an assessment of the Khmer Rouge Tribunal twenty years on from the founding of the new Cambodian state and thirty-four years after the fall of the Pol Pot regime, attests. The Khmer Rouge Tribunal, whose formal name is the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC), was established in 2006, providing the first hope that Khmer Rouge leaders would finally be brought to justice and held to account for their hideous crimes.
Benzimidazole-resistant gastrointestinal nematodes in indigenous Chiapas and Pelibuey sheep breeds from Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Liébano-Hernández E. , González-Olvera M. , Vázquez-Peláez C. , Mendoza-de-Gives P. , Ramírez-Vargas G. , Peralta-Lailson M. , Reyes-García M.E. , Osorio J. , Sánchez-Pineda H. , López-Arellano M.E.
Published: October 2013

Because of the natural adaptation of Mexican sheep, the aim of the present study was to identify the presence or absence of gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes (GIN) resistant to benzimidazole (BZ) in both Chiapas and Pelibuey sheep breeds on local farms. Both male and female GIN-infected grazing sheep of the two breeds were selected. Sheep faecal samples were collected to obtain infective larvae (L3). This evolving stage of the parasite was used for taxonomic identification of the genus, based on its morphological characteristics. BZ anthelmintic resistance was evaluated using a nematode–compound in vitro interaction bioassay and the allele-specific polymerase chain reaction technique to detect mutations of residues 198 and 200 on isotype 1 of the β-tubulin gene. Three BZ-based compounds (febendazole (FBZ), tiabendazole (TBZ) and albendazole (ABZ)) at concentrations of 1, 0.5, 0.25, 0.125, 0.062 and 0.03 mg/ml were used to estimate the anthelmintic efficacy and lethal dose (LD50, LD90 and LD99) of the drugs. Two parasitic nematodes, Haemonchus and Teladorsagia, were identified in both isolates. Also, the proportions of anthelmintic resistance identified in GIN of the two sheep breeds were 68% in isolates from the Chiapas breed and 71.8% in the Pelibuey breed. The specific lethal activity obtained with FBZ was higher than 90%. However, TBZ and ABZ showed a lethal activity lower than 50%. High variability in the discriminating dose values was found among the BZ drugs. For example, FBZ LD ranged from 0.01 to 1.20 mg/ml; on the other hand, TBZ and ABZ required a dose ranging from 0.178 to 759 mg/ml. In addition, amino acid changes of Phe (TTC) to Tyr (TAC) at codon 200 of the β-tubulin gene, showing resistance to BZ, and no changes at codon 198 Glu (GAA) to Ala (GCA) were observed for both isolates. These results confirmed the presence of a genetic mutation associated with BZ in both Chiapas and Pelibuey nematode isolates.
Unusual presentation of an asymptomatic pseudomeningocele within the sphenoid sinus
Authors: McNamara K J , Exley R P , Khwaja S , Bhalla R K
Published: October 2013

Objective:

We report the rare case of a 55-year-old woman with an asymptomatic left sphenoid sinus pseudomeningocele mimicking a mucocele.

Case report:

A 55-year-old woman was found to have an incidental mass in the left sphenoid sinus on computed tomography. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the presence of a mucocele. A left endoscopic sphenoidotomy was performed to drain the mucocele. Despite an anatomical puncture through a stenosed sphenoid ostium, alarmingly, the opening leaked cerebrospinal fluid. A dehiscent lateral wall was identified with a dural opening communicating with the sphenoid sinus. This was immediately repaired with a free nasal septal mucosal graft. Six months post-operatively, the patient remained free from cerebrospinal fluid leakage.

Conclusion:

Pseudomeningoceles are extremely rare in the absence of trauma or iatrogenic injury. Surgeons should be alert to their presence as they can mimic a unilateral mucocele or nasal polyp. Endoscopic management lends itself to a single-stage repair.
Anisakids (Nematoda: Anisakidae) from ringed seal, Pusa hispida, and bearded seal, Erignathus barbatus (Mammalia: Pinnipedia) from Nunavut region
Authors: Karpiej Katarzyna , Simard Manon , Pufall Erica , Rokicki Jerzy
Published: October 2013

As many Arctic fish species are intermediate hosts of anisakids, they are present in the diet of the ringed seal, Pusa hispida, and the bearded seal, Erignathus barbatus. Parasitic nematodes from the stomachs of 66 seals caught in the Nunavut region (Canada) from two communities (Arviat and Sanikiluaq) from October 2007 to January 2008 have been examined in order to identify the epidemiological risk for Inuit communities who consume traditional food. In Arviat 2428 anisakids were observed in 37 seals, while in Sanikiluaq 316 Anisakidae were isolated from 29 seals. The worms were treated with a host tissue, washed in deionized water and stored until analysis in 70% ethanol. The parasites were divided into three parts. The anterior and posterior parts were stored in 70% ethanol containing 5% glycerol and were examined using a light microscope by evaporation of the ethanol/glycerin mixture. The central parts were prepared for molecular identification by fixing in 70% ethanol. Using the polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method, the following members of the family Anisakidae were identified: Contracaecum osculatum A and C and Pseudoterranova bulbosa. In the studied material, more adult worms were noted than larval stages. The most numerous nematodes were P. bulbosa, and mixed infection was observed. The mean prevalence of anisakids infection was 43.2% in the Arviat and 37.9% in the Sanikiluaq communities.
Current status of organophosphorus compounds contamination in Maizuru Bay, Japan
Authors: Harino Hiroya , Yatsuzuka Emi , Yamao Chiaki , Ueno Masaaki , Ohji Madoka
Published: October 2013

The concentrations of organophosphoric acid triesters (OPEs) in water samples from Maizuru Bay were in the range of 3.0–62 ng/l. In general, the concentrations of OPEs were found in the order of TBXP > TDCPP > TCEP > TBP > TCP > TPP > TEP. The organophosphorous pesticides (OPPs) diazinon, fenitrothion, iprobenfos and chlorpyrifos were detected in water samples. The concentrations of OPEs in sediment from Maizuru Bay were in the range of <0.5–56 µg kg−1 dry weight (dw). Among OPPs, diazinon in sediment samples were in the range of 1.8–71 µg kg−1 dw. However, the detection frequencies of fenitrothion and chlorpyrifos in sediment were low. The concentrations of OPEs in mussels from Maizuru Bay were in the range of <1–34 µg kg−1 wet weight (ww). The concentrations of OPEs were found in the order of TBP > TDCPP > TCP > TBXP = TPP = TCEP. Pesticides were detected in mussels, but these concentrations were lower than the acceptable daily intake (ADI) values. The partition coefficients between water and sediment (Kws) of diazinon and fenitrothion were 200–1300 and 200–300, respectively and the partition coefficients between water and biological samples (Kwb) of diazinon and fenitrothion were 700–3300 and 450–700, respectively, suggesting that these pesticides accumulate in biological samples at higher rates than in sediment.
MEASURING GROUP FITNESS IN A BIOLOGICAL HIERARCHY: AN AXIOMATIC SOCIAL CHOICE APPROACH
Authors: Bossert Walter , Qi Chloe X. , Weymark John A.
Published: October 2013

This article illustrates how axiomatic social choice theory can be used in the evaluation of measures of group fitness for a biological hierarchy, thereby contributing to the dialogue between the philosophy of biology and social choice theory. It provides an axiomatic characterization of the ordering underlying the Michod–Viossat–Solari–Hurand–Nedelcu index of group fitness for a multicellular organism. The MVSHN index has been used to analyse the germ-soma specialization and the fitness decoupling between the cell and organism levels that takes place during the evolutionary transition to multicellularity. It is argued that some of the axioms satisfied by the MVSHN group fitness ordering are not appropriate for all stages in this transition.
VAULTING INTUITION: TEMKIN'S CRITIQUE OF TRANSITIVITY
Authors: Voorhoeve Alex
Published: October 2013

How to rank distributions of benefits and harms? In this book, Larry Temkin addresses this question in detail. Its core claims are two. First, the goodness of a distribution is sometimes ‘essentially comparative’ – it sometimes depends on which alternative distribution(s) it is compared to. Second, there are many cases in which our intuitions are at odds with the transitivity of ‘all things considered better than’ and these cases give us reason to doubt that this relation is transitive. (Transitivity holds that if some alternative a3 is better than a2, and a2 is better than a1, then a3 is better than a1.)
A SATISFACTORY MINIMUM CONCEPTION OF JUSTICE: RECONSIDERING RAWLS'S MAXIMIN ARGUMENT
Authors: Kaufman Alexander
Published: October 2013

John Rawls argues that it is possible to describe a suitably defined initial situation from which to form reliable judgements about justice. In this initial situation, rational persons are deprived of information that is ‘irrelevant from the standpoint of justice’. It is rational, Rawls argues, for persons choosing principles of justice from this standpoint to be guided by the maximin rule. Critics, however, argue that (i) the maximin rule is not the appropriate decision rule for Rawls's choice position; (ii) the maximin argument relies upon an imprecise account of the satisfactory minimum to be secured under the maximin rule; or that (iii) Rawls relies upon unrealistic assumptions about diminishing marginal value. These critics, I will suggest, argue from a number of assumptions that are confused or false. The satisfactory minimum that choosers in the original position – employing the maximin rule – seek to achieve isnota minimum level of primary goods, nor is the satisfactory minimum sought under the maximin rule supplied by the difference principle. I will argue that the maximin argument is more robust than has generally been recognized and that this argument performs a number of important functions in clarifying the nature and implications of Rawls's argument for justice as fairness.
Poverty in China's Colleges and the Targeting of Financial Aid
Authors: Li Hongbin , Meng Lingsheng , Shi Xinzheng , Wu Binzhen
Published: October 2013

We use the Chinese College Student Survey, conducted in 2010, to examine levels of poverty among students on China's campuses. With the poverty line defined as the college-specific expenditures a student needs to maintain a basic living standard on campus, we find that 22 per cent of college students in China are living in poverty. Poverty is more severe among students from rural or western parts of the country. With a targeting count error of more than 50 per cent, it is important that the college need-based aid programme be improved. Lacking other income sources, poor students rely heavily on loans and paid employment to finance their college education.
Differentiating veatchite polytypes using X-ray powder diffraction
Authors: Rowe Ralph , Grice Joel D. , Poulin Rémy S.
Published: October 2013

Veatchite polytypes were properly identified from several localities relying solely on micro powder diffraction data. Diagnostic differences in their respective calculated patterns gave reliable identification results when compared with measured data. This permitted the confirmation of co-existing veatchite-1A and -2M on the same specimen from the Billie Mine, Inyo County, California as flat elongated crystals (-1A) and flat rhombic plates (-2M), respectively. On the specimen from the Sterling Borax Mine (Lang), type-locality for veatchite-2M, the polytype veatchite-1A was confirmed from radiating rhombic plates. From the type specimen for veatchite-1A (rhombic plates), collected from the borate deposit in Emet, Turkey, an additional unknown polytype of this mineral was discovered, but lacks suitable material for a complete characterization. At the Penobsquis deposit near Sussex in New Brunswick, Canada, only veatchite-2M was encountered. The area between 20 and 25°2θ holds the following diffraction signatures: -1A (two sets of double peaks at approximately 21.5 and 24.5°2θ), -1M (single peaks at 20 and 23°2θ) and -2M (double peaks at 20 and 23°2θ). The unknown polytype from Emet, Turkey differs from polytype-1A in that same range by having single peaks at the 21.5 and 24.5° instead of double peaks.
Interrupted aorta diagnosed in a 51-year-old woman
Authors: Stoyanov Nik , Bullock Andrew , Erickson Matthew
Published: October 2013

A 51-year-old lady presented with increasing heart failure symptoms and palpitations. She had recently been diagnosed with a congenital ventricular septal defect, bicuspid aortic valve, and Eisenmenger’s syndrome. There was clinical evidence of right heart failure and differential clubbing and cyanosis affecting the feet but not hands. A cardiac magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated interruption of the aortic arch beyond the left subclavian artery, with the descending aorta perfused entirely through a large patent ductus arteriosus.
ON SMALL SUBSPACE LATTICES IN HILBERT SPACE
Authors: DONG AIJU , WU WENMING , YUAN WEI
Published: October 2013

We study the reflexivity and transitivity of a double triangle lattice of subspaces in a Hilbert space. We show that the double triangle lattice is neither reflexive nor transitive when some invertibility condition is satisfied (by the restriction of a projection under another). In this case, we show that the reflexive lattice determined by the double triangle lattice contains infinitely many projections, which partially answers a problem of Halmos on small lattices of subspaces in Hilbert spaces.
Equivalent circuit model of reliable RF-MEMS switches for component synthesis, fabrication process characterization and failure analysis
Authors: Torres Matabosch Núria , Coccetti Fabio , Kaynak Mehmet , Espana Beatrice , Tillack Bernd , Cazaux Jean-Louis
Published: October 2013

An accurate and very large band (30–110 GHZ) lumped element equivalent circuit model of capacitive RF-MEMS components based on a standard 250 nm BiCMOS technology is presented. This model is able to predict the effect of the fabrication process dispersion, synthesize new components and monitor the failure mechanisms. Moreover, a reliability study is performed in order to define a screening criterion (VPOUT > 36 V and |VPIN − VPOUT| ≤ 1) based on which a selection of the devices with optimal performance in terms of RF and lifetime performance can be made. Finally, a very quick effective technique (non-intrusive) is proposed to carry out this operation.
Sequential and Concurrent Strategies of Multiple Goal Pursuit
Authors: Orehek Edward , Vazeou-Nieuwenhuis Anna
Published: October 2013

People have many goals, presenting them with a challenge regarding how to navigate their multiple pursuits in each instant. Two such strategies exist, referred to here as sequential and concurrent goal pursuit. The present perspective on multiple goal pursuit is presented through which we can better understand (a) the resource demands that necessitate strategies of multiple goal pursuit, (b) the differences between sequential and concurrent goal pursuit, and (c) when each of these strategies is likely to be adopted. The explanatory power of the current framework for diverse behavioral domains, including diet, exercise, addiction, and moral behavior is discussed, as are the implications for acting on one's goals and the impact of success versus failure when pursuing each strategy.
A search for varying fundamental constants using hertz-level frequency measurements of cold CH molecules
Authors: Truppe S. , Hendricks R.J. , Tokunaga S.K. , Lewandowski H.J. , Kozlov M.G. , Henkel Christian , Hinds E.A. , Tarbutt M.R.
Published: October 2013

Many modern theories predict that the fundamental constants depend on time, position or the local density of matter. Here we develop a spectroscopic method for pulsed beams of cold molecules, and use it to measure the frequencies of microwave transitions in CH with accuracy down to 3 Hz. By comparing these frequencies with those measured from sources of CH in the Milky Way, we test the hypothesis that fundamental constants may differ between the high- and low-density environments of the Earth and the interstellar medium. For the fine structure constant we find Δα/α=(0.3±1.1) × 10−7, the strongest limit to date on such a variation of α. For the electron-to-proton mass ratio we find Δμ/μ=(−0.7±2.2) × 10−7. We suggest how dedicated astrophysical measurements can improve these constraints further and can also constrain temporal variation of the constants.
Extended interaction network of procollagen C-proteinase enhancer-1 in the extracellular matrix
Authors: Salza Romain , Peysselon Franck , Chautard Emilie , Faye Clément , Moschcovich Laura , Weiss Tali , Perrin-Cocon Laure , Lotteau Vincent , Kessler Efrat , Ricard-Blum Sylvie
Published: October 2013

PCPE-1 (procollagen C-proteinase enhancer-1) is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein that can stimulate procollagen processing by procollagen C-proteinases such as BMP-1 (bone morphogenetic protein 1). PCPE-1 interacts with several proteins in addition to procollagens and BMP-1, suggesting that it could be involved in biological processes other than collagen maturation. We thus searched for additional partners of PCPE-1 in the extracellular matrix, which could provide new insights into its biological roles. We identified 17 new partners of PCPE-1 by SPR (surface plasmon resonance) imaging. PCPE-1 forms a transient complex with the β-amyloid peptide, whereas it forms high or very high affinity complexes with laminin-111 (KD=58.8 pM), collagen VI (KD=9.5 nM), TSP-1 (thrombospondin-1) (KD1=19.9 pM, KD2=14.5 nM), collagen IV (KD=49.4 nM) and endostatin, a fragment of collagen XVIII (KD1=0.30 nM, KD2=1.1 nM). Endostatin binds to the NTR (netrin-like) domain of PCPE-1 and decreases the degree of superstimulation of PCPE-1 enhancing activity by heparin. The analysis of the PCPE-1 interaction network based on Gene Ontology terms suggests that, besides its role in collagen deposition, PCPE-1 might be involved in tumour growth, neurodegenerative diseases and angiogenesis. In vitro assays have indeed shown that the CUB1CUB2 (where CUB is complement protein subcomponents C1r/C1s, urchin embryonic growth factor and BMP-1) fragment of PCPE-1 inhibits angiogenesis.
The miR-19a/b family positively regulates cardiomyocyte hypertrophy by targeting atrogin-1 and MuRF-1
Authors: Song Dong Woo , Ryu Jae Yong , Kim Jin Ock , Kwon Eun Jeong , Kim Do Han
Published: October 2013

Progressive cardiac hypertrophy owing to pathological stimuli, such as pressure overload, is frequently associated with the development of heart failure, a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Growing evidence has shown that miRNAs are extensively involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy. In the present study, we examined the hypothesis that the miR-19a/b family acts as a key regulator of cardiac hypertrophy and apoptosis. Forced overexpression of miR-19a/b was sufficient to induce hypertrophy in rat neonatal cardiomyocytes. Luciferase assays revealed that miR-19a/b directly target the anti-hypertrophic genes atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 (muscle RING-finger protein-1). The endogenous expressions of the target genes were down-regulated by miR-19a/b. Pro-hypertrophic calcineurin/NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T-cells) signalling was elevated markedly in the presence of miR-19b, and the calcineurin inhibitor CsA (cyclosporin A) and the PKC (protein kinase C) inhibitor GF10923X significantly attenuated the miR-19b-mediated increase in cell size and expression of hypertrophic markers. Furthermore, miR-19b led to increased cell survival through up-regulation of the NFAT target gene encoding α-crystallin-B and repression of the pro-apoptotic gene Bim (Bcl-2-interacting mediator of cell death) under ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress conditions. Taken together, the results of the present study demonstrate that the miR-19a/b family regulates phenotypes of cardiomyocytes via suppression of multiple direct target genes.