bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Action of Halowax 1051 on Enzymes of Phase I (CYP1A1) and Phase II (SULT1A and COMT) Metabolism in the Pig Ovary
Authors: Barć Justyna , Karpeta Anna , Gregoraszczuk Ewa Łucja
Published: April 2013

Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs) are a group of organochlorinated compounds exhibiting dioxin-like properties. Previously published data showed the direct action of PCN-rich Halowax 1051 on ovarian follicular steroidogenesis. Taking into consideration that the observed biological effects of PCNs may be frequently side effects of metabolites generated by their detoxification, the aim of this study was to determine the activity and expression of enzymes involved in phase I (cytochrome P450, family 1 (CYP1A1)) and phase II (sulfotransferase (SULT1A) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT)) detoxification metabolism. Cocultures of granulosa and theca interna cells collected from sexually mature pigs were exposed to 1 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL of Halowax 1051 for 1 to 48 hours, after which levels and activities of CYP1A1, SULT1A, and COMT were measured. Dose-dependent increases of CYP1A1 activity and expression were observed. High doses of Halowax 1051 were inhibitory to COMT and SULT1A activity and reduced their protein levels. In conclusion, fast activation of phase I enzymes with simultaneous inhibition of phase II enzymes indicates that the previously observed effect of Halowax 1051 on follicular steroidogenesis may partially result from metabolite action occurring locally in ovarian follicles.
Bulky Macroporous TiO2Photocatalyst with Cellular Structure via Facile Wood-Template Method
Authors: Sun Qingfeng , Lu Yun , Tu Jinchun , Yang Dongjiang , Cao Jun , Li Jian
Published: April 2013

We report a bulky macroporous TiO2particles with cellular structure prepared in the presence of wood slices as template. Firstly, TiO2sol was coated onto the wood slices by repeated dip-coating process. Then, after calcinations at 550°C, the wood template could be removed, and the bulky TiO2structure was obtained. The prepared samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) techniques. XRD pattern confirmed the crystalline phase of the wood-templated TiO2is anatase phase. And interestingly, from the observation of SEM image, the wood-templated TiO2inherited the initial cellular structures of birch lumber (B. albosinensis Burk), and numerous macropores were observed in the sample. Meanwhile, the wood-templated TiO2presented a superior photocatalytic ability to decompose Rhodamine B (RhB) under ultraviolet irradiation.
Hierarchical Node Replication Attacks Detection in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Znaidi Wassim , Minier Marine , Ubéda Stéphane
Published: April 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are composed of numerous low-cost, low-power sensor nodes communicating at short distance through wireless links. Sensors are densely deployed to collect and transmit data of the physical world to one or few destinations called the sinks. Because of open deployment in hostile environment and the use of low-cost materials, powerful adversaries could capture them to extract sensitive information (encryption keys, identities, addresses, etc.). When nodes may be compromised, “beyond cryptography” algorithmic solutions must be envisaged to complement the cryptographic solutions. This paper addresses the problem of nodes replication; that is, an adversary captures one or several nodes and inserts duplicated nodes at any location in the network. If no specific detection mechanisms are established, the attacker could lead many insidious attacks. In this work, we first introduce a new hierarchical distributed algorithm for detecting node replication attacks using a Bloom filter mechanism and a cluster head selection (see also Znaidi et al. (2009)). We present a theoretical discussion on the bounds of our algorithm. We also perform extensive simulations of our algorithm for random topologies, and we compare those results with other proposals of the literature. Finally, we show the effectiveness of our algorithm and its energy efficiency.
Efficacy of Single-Pill Combination of Telmisartan 80 mg and Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Prospective Subgroup Analysis of a Randomized, Double-Blind, and Controlled Trial
Authors: Bays Harold , Gao Pingjin , Völker Birgit , Mattheus Michaela , Ruilope Luis M. , Zhu Dingliang
Published: April 2013

Objective. Report of prespecified andpost hocsubgroup analyses of a randomized, controlled trial comparing telmisartan 80 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg (T80/H25) combination therapy with T80 monotherapy, according to the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.Methods. Hypertensive patients were randomized (2 : 1) to receive T80/H25 or T80 for 6 weeks, following a 1-week, low-dose, and run-in period. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic BP reductions and BP goal achievement were evaluated in patients with CVD risk factors: presence of diabetes mellitus (DM), renal impairment, increased body mass index (BMI), and 10-year estimated risk for coronary heart disease (CHD).Results. In total, 888 patients received treatment. Overall, T80/H25 therapy significantly reduced SBP more than T80 monotherapy, irrespective of patient subgroup. In patients with DM, renal impairment, high BMI, and high CHD risk, BP goal achievement rates (<140/90 mm Hg) at Week 7, among those treated with T80/H25, were 52.8%, 52.8%, 50.6%, and 38.5%, respectively. More patients with DM reached a guideline-based BP goal (<130/80 mm Hg) at 7 weeks with T80/H25 than with T80 monotherapy (16.7% versus 8.8%). Rates of treatment-related adverse events were low and comparable across patient subgroups.Conclusions. Antihypertensive treatment with T80/H25 single-pill combination is effective and generally well tolerated, irrespective of the presence of CVD risk factors.
Puerperal Group A Streptococcal Infections: A Case Series and Discussion
Authors: Busowski Mary T. , Lee Melissa , Busowski John D. , Akhter Kauser , Wallace Mark R.
Published: April 2013

Puerperal group A streptococcal infections, a major postpartum killer during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, have become (fortunately) rare. We describe a cluster of 4 serious peripartum group A streptococcal infections occurring within the past five years at a single medical center. These cases were not epidemiologically linked and serve to illustrate the continuing risk of these potentially fulminant infections.
Inflammatory Signalings Involved in Airway and Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Lee I-Ta , Yang Chuen-Mao
Published: April 2013

In respiratory diseases, there is an increased expression of multiple inflammatory proteins in the respiratory tract, including cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. Chemokines have been shown to regulate inflammation and immune cell differentiation. Moreover, many of the known inflammatory target proteins, such as matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and cytosolic phospholipase A2(cPLA2), are associated with airway and lung inflammation in response to various stimuli. Injuriously environmental stimuli can access the lung through either the airways or the pulmonary and systemic circulations. The time course and intensity of responses by resident and circulating cells may be regulated by various inflammatory signalings, including Src family kinases (SFKs), protein kinase C (PKC), growth factor tyrosine kinase receptors, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)/reactive oxygen species (ROS), PI3K/Akt, MAPKs, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), activator protein-1 (AP-1), and other signaling molecules. These signaling molecules regulate both key inflammatory signaling transduction pathways and target proteins involved in airway and lung inflammation. Here, we discuss the mechanisms involved in the expression of inflammatory target proteins associated with the respiratory diseases. Knowledge of the mechanisms of inflammation regulation could lead to the pharmacological manipulation of anti-inflammatory drugs in the respiratory diseases.
A Case of the Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder
Authors: Hata Shinro , Tasaki Yoshihisa
Published: April 2013

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the urinary bladder is very rare. Definite treatment strategy has not been established and prognosis of the disease is not clear yet. We report a case of primary LCNEC of the urinary bladder here with some review of the literature. The patient was a 84-year-old man. He underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). Histological examination revealed a rosette arrangement of the tumor cells by HE staining and immunohistochemical study revealed positive CD 56, synaptophysin, and chromogranin A (LCNEC). After TURBT, he has no sign of recurrence for 8 months. We have to strictly observe the progress because LCNEC is very aggressive.
Certain Subclasses of p-Valent Meromorphic Functions Associated with a New Operator
Authors: Mostafa A. O. , Aouf M. K. , Shamandy A. , Adwan E. A.
Published: April 2013

We introduce two classes of p-valent meromorphic functions associated with a new operator and derive several interesting results for these classes.
Prevalence and Clinical and Immunoviralogical Profile of Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Hepatitis B Coinfection among Children in an Antiretroviral Therapy Programme in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Anigilaje Emmanuel Ademola , Olutola Ayodotun
Published: April 2013

Background. Nigeria has the world largest burden of paediatric HIV and is also highly endemic for Hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, relatively little is known regarding the prevalence of HBV-HIV coinfections among Nigerian children. Methods. A retrospective study among treatment naive HIV-infected children attending the pediatric clinic of the APIN Plus/Harvard PEPFAR program of the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, between June 2008 and June 2012. Results. The mean age of the 395 subjects studied was 7.53±4.23 years. Thirty-one subjects (7.8%) were positive for HBV. No subject was HIV-HBV-HCV triply infected. Significantly higher HIV-HBC coinfections were found, in older subjects (11–15 years), subjects that did not receive nor complete Hepatitis B vaccinations, and subjects that had a severe immunosuppression of < 15% with respective P values of 0.00, 0.01, and 0.00. HIV-HBV co-infection did not significantly impact on other baseline characteristics including, gender, WHO clinical stage, median absolute CD4 count, mean viral load, median ALT, and hepatotoxicity. Conclusion. A high seroprevalence of HBV among this cohort of HIV-infected children contributes to the calls for pre-ART screening for HBV and the necessary paradigm shift in the ART nucleoside backbone to include agent(s) more dually effective against HIV and HBV.
Nurse Managers' Perceptions Related to Their Leadership Styles, Knowledge, and Skills in These Areas—A Viewpoint: Case of Health Centre Wards in Finland
Authors: Vesterinen Soili , Suhonen Marjo , Isola Arja , Paasivaara Leena , Laukkala Helena
Published: April 2013

The purpose of this study was to explore nurse managers’ perceptions related to their leadership styles, knowledge, and their skills in these areas in health centre wards in Finland. The data were collected from nurse managers (n=252) in health centre hospitals in Finland using a structured questionnaire (response rate 63%). Six leadership styles—visionary, coaching, affiliate, democratic, commanding, and isolating—were reflected on. Almost all respondents in every age group considered four leadership styles—visionary, coaching, affiliate, and democratic—to be very important or important. Nurse managers estimated their knowledge and skills in leadership styles to be essentially fairly sufficient or sufficient. Nurse managers’ abilities to reflect, understand, and, if necessary, change their leadership style influence the work unit’s success and employees’ job satisfaction. Nurse managers, especially new nurse managers, need more theoretic, evidence-based education to cope with these expectations and to develop their professional abilities. Together with universities, health care organizations should start planning nurse manager education programmes that focus on strategic issues, leadership, job satisfaction, challenging situations in leadership, change management, work unit management (e.g., economy, efficiency, and resources), and how the nurse managers consider their own wellbeing.
Nodular Epithelial Hyperplasia after Photorefractive Keratectomy Followed by Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking
Authors: Bogoni Ayla , Salerno Liberdade Cezaro , Ghanem Vinícius Coral , Ghanem Ramon Coral
Published: April 2013

This study describes a case of nodular epithelial hyperplasia and stromal alterations in a patient with keratoconus who was submitted to topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) followed by corneal collagen cross-linking. Debridement of the epithelial nodule was performed. After a 2-year followup, a new topography-guided PRK was indicated.
A Dose-Ranging Study of Cabozantinib in Men with Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer and Bone Metastases
Authors: Lee Richard J. , Saylor Philip J. , Dror Michaelson M. , Michael Rothenberg S. , Smas Malgorzata E. , Miyamoto David T. , Gurski Carol A. , Xie Wanling , Maheswaran Shyamala , Haber Daniel A. , Goldin Jonathan G. , Smith Matthew R.
Published: April 2013

Background: Cabozantinib is an oral MET/VEGFR2 inhibitor. A recent phase II study of cabozantinib (100 mg daily) showed improved bone scans in subjects with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), but adverse events (AE) caused frequent dose reductions. This study was designed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of cabozantinib at lower starting doses.

Experimental Design: An adaptive design was used to determine the lowest active daily dose among 60, 40, and 20 mg. The primary endpoint was week 6 bone scan response, defined as ≥30% decrease in bone scan lesion area. The secondary endpoint was change in circulating tumor cells (CTC).

Results: Among 11 evaluable subjects enrolled at 40 mg, there were 9 partial responses (PR), 1 complete response, and 1 stable disease (SD). Of 10 subjects subsequently enrolled at 20 mg, there were 1 PR, 5 SDs, and 4 with progressive disease. Among 13 subjects enrolled on the 40 mg expansion cohort, there were 6 PRs and 7 SDs. No subjects required dose reduction or treatment interruption at 6 or 12 weeks; 3 subjects at dose level 0 discontinued due to AEs by 12 weeks. At 40 mg, median treatment duration was 27 weeks. 58% of subjects with ≥5 CTCs/7.5mL at baseline converted to <5.

Conclusions: Cabozantinib 40 mg daily was associated with a high rate of bone scan response. Cabozantinib 40 mg daily was associated with better tolerability than previously reported for cabozantinib 100 mg daily. These observations informed the design of phase III studies of cabozantinib in mCRPC. Clin Cancer Res; 19(11); 3088–94. ©2013 AACR.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Failure in Preterm Infants: Incidence, Predictors and Consequences
Authors: Dargaville Peter A. , Aiyappan Ajit , De Paoli Antonio G. , Dalton Richard G.B. , Kuschel Carl A. , Kamlin C. Omar , Orsini Francesca , Carlin John B. , Davis Peter G.
Published: April 2013

Background: Preterm infants ≤32 weeks' gestation are increasingly being managed on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), without prior intubation and surfactant therapy. Some infants treated in this way ultimately fail on CPAP and require intubation and ventilation. Objectives: To define the incidence, predictors and consequences of CPAP failure in preterm infants managed with CPAP from the outset. Methods: Preterm infants 25-32 weeks' gestation were included in the study if inborn and managed with CPAP as the initial respiratory support, with division into two gestation ranges and grouping according to whether they were successfully managed on CPAP (CPAP-S) or failed on CPAP and required intubation <72 h (CPAP-F). Predictors of CPAP failure were sought, and outcomes compared between the groups. Results: 297 infants received CPAP, of which 65 (22%) failed, with CPAP failure being more likely at lower gestational age. Most infants failing CPAP had moderate or severe respiratory distress syndrome radiologically. In multivariate analysis, CPAP failure was found to be predicted by the highest FiO2 in the first hours of life. CPAP-F infants had a prolonged need for respiratory support and oxygen therapy, and a higher risk of death or bronchopulmonary dysplasia at 25-28 weeks' gestation (CPAP-F 53% vs. CPAP-S 14%, relative risk 3.8, 95% CI 1.6, 9.3) and a substantially higher risk of pneumothorax at 29-32 weeks. Conclusion: CPAP failure in preterm infants usually occurs because of unremitting respiratory distress syndrome, is predicted by an FiO2 ≥0.3 in the first hours of life, and is associated with adverse outcomes.
Clinical Characteristics and Expression of Thymic Stromal Lymphopoetin in Eosinophilic and Non-Eosinophilic Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Ouyang Yuhui , Fan Erzhong , Li Ying , Wang Xiangdong , Zhang Luo
Published: April 2013

Objective: To evaluate the differences in clinical features and expression of cytokine thymic stromal lymphopoetin (TSLP) and its receptors in patients with eosinophilic and non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis (ECRS and NECRS). Method: 36 ECRS patients and 50 NECRS patients were evaluated for symptoms, nasal sinus computed tomography scanning, nasal endoscopy, skin prick test (SPT) positivity, and total IgE. Expression of TSLP and receptors in ethmoid sinus mucosa from the ECRS and NECRS groups were investigated by using immunohistochemical staining. Results: ECRS patients demonstrated significantly higher scores of cough and hyposmia. 66.7% of ECRS patients also demonstrated nasal polyps, compared to 50% of NECRS patients, with significantly higher polyp endoscopy scores. 80.6% of ECRS patients demonstrated SPT positivity, compared to 14% of NECRS patients. The overall expression of TSLP, TSLP receptors and IL-7R was significantly greater in eosinophils in the mucosa of ECRS patients than in NECRS patients. The expression of TSLP and receptors in SPT-positive ECRS patients was significantly greater than in SPT-negative patients, with a significant correlation noted between the expression of TSLP and nasal polyp scores. Conclusion: The clinical manifestations of ECRS are likely to be influenced by atopic status of an individual and TSLP-mediated eosinophil infiltration of the rhinosinusoidal mucosa.
Evidence-Based Review of the Management of Hepatic Hydrothorax
Authors: Singh Amita , Bajwa Abubakr , Shujaat Adil
Published: April 2013

Hepatic hydrothorax (HH) is an example of a porous diaphragm syndrome. Portal hypertension results in the formation of ascitic fluid which moves across defects in the diaphragm and accumulates in the pleural space. Consequently, the treatment approach to HH consists of measures to reduce the formation of ascitic fluid, prevent the movement of ascitic fluid across the diaphragm, and drain or obliterate the pleural space. Approximately 21-26% of cases of HH are refractory to salt and fluid restriction and diuretics and warrant consideration of additional treatment measures. Ideally, liver transplantation is the best treatment option; however, most of the patients are not candidates and most of those who are eligible die while waiting for a transplant. Treatment measures other than liver transplantation may not only provide relief from dyspnea but also improve patient survival and serve as a bridge to liver transplantation.
Reduced Glucocorticoid Receptor Protein Expression in Children with Critical Illness
Authors: Indyk Justin A. , Candido-Vitto Cristina , Wolf Irene M. , Venkataraman Shekhar , Munoz Ricardo , Saladino Richard A. , Witchel Selma F. , DeFranco Donald B.
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: The diagnostic criteria for critical illness-related corticoid insufficiency (CIRCI) are not well established, particularly for children. In addition to alterations in adrenal function, cellular resistance to glucocorticoid action could contribute to CIRCI due to alterations in the functioning of the intracellular receptor protein for corticosteroids, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Methods: We have therefore undertaken a pilot, prospective study to assess whether cellular GR activity can be measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from critically ill children. Results: Total and cytoplasmic, but not nuclear GR levels were significantly lower in PBMCs from critically ill children (i.e. sepsis/septic shock and traumatic brain injury) compared to healthy controls. While total cortisol concentrations did not differ between test groups, salivary and serum-free cortisol concentrations were significantly greater in both groups of children with critical illness. Cortisol-binding globulin levels were significantly lower in patients with sepsis/septic shock. Conclusions: The lower total and cytoplasmic receptor levels in critically ill children suggest that the GR-mediated response to exogenous glucocorticoid therapy may be limited. However, the nuclear transport of GR in critically ill patients suggests that residual receptors in these patients retain functionality and may be accessible to therapeutic treatments that maximize their activity.
Risk of Kidney Injury following Cardioversion for Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Preibisz Jacek J.
Published: April 2013

No abstract available
Uterus-Like Mass in Association with Neural Tube Defect: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kakkar Aanchal , Sharma Mehar Chand , Garg Ajay , Goyal Nishant , Suri Vaishali , Sarkar Chitra , Mahapatra Ashok Kumar
Published: April 2013

Uterus-like mass is an extremely rare choristoma of müllerian origin arising in association with neural tube defects. In this article, we describe the case of a 9-year-old girl with spina bifida, a mass lesion within the conus, and a subcutaneous lipoma in the lumbosacral region. Histopathological examination of the conus lesion revealed a uterus-like structure comprising of endometrial glands and stroma surrounded by fascicles of smooth muscle. This case differs from the few previously described cases in absence of neurological symptoms and early age at diagnosis. Thorough histopathological examination of resected tissue is therefore recommended for the diagnosis of this rare entity, as it may not have a typical presentation in all instances.
Neutrophils in the Innate Immunity Conundrum of Cystic Fibrosis: A CFTR-Related Matter?
Authors: Witko-Sarsat Véronique
Published: April 2013

No abstract available
Identifying Locations for Public Access Defibrillators Using Mathematical Optimization
Authors: Chan Timothy C.Y. , Li Heyse , Lebovic Gerald , Tang Sabrina K. , Chan Joyce Y.T. , Cheng Horace C.K. , Morrison Laurie J. , Brooks Steven C.
Published: April 2013

Background—

Geospatial methods using mathematical optimization to identify clusters of cardiac arrests and prioritize public locations for defibrillator deployment have not been studied. Our objective was to develop such a method and test its performance against a population-guided approach.

Methods and Results—

All public location cardiac arrests in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, from December 16, 2005, to July 15, 2010, and all automated external defibrillator (AED) locations registered with Toronto Emergency Medical Services as of September 2009 were plotted geographically. Current AED coverage was quantified by determining the number of cardiac arrests occurring within 100 m of a registered AED. Clusters of cardiac arrests without a registered AED within 100 m were identified. With the use of mathematical optimization techniques, cardiac arrest coverage improvements were computed and shown to be superior to results from a population-guided deployment method. There were 1310 eligible public location cardiac arrests and 1669 registered AEDs. Of the eligible cardiac arrests, 304 were within 100 m of at least 1 registered AED (23% coverage). The average distance from a cardiac arrest to the closest AED was 281 m. With AEDs deployed in the top 30 locations, an additional 112 historical cardiac arrests would be covered (32% total coverage), and the average distance to the closest AED would be 262 m.

Conclusions—

Geographic clusters of cardiac arrests can be easily identified and prioritized with the use of mathematical modeling. Optimized AED deployment can increase cardiac arrest coverage and decrease the distance to the closest AED. Mathematical modeling can augment public AED deployment programs.
First Things First: The Pressing Danger of Crisis Instability in U.S.-China Relations
Authors: Goldstein Avery
Published: April 2013

Since the mid-1990s, much has been written about the potentially disruptive impact of China if it emerges as a peer competitor challenging the United States. Not enough attention has been paid, however, to a more immediate danger—that the United States and a weaker China will find themselves locked in a crisis that could escalate to open military conflict. The long-term prospect for a new great power rivalry ultimately rests on uncertain forecasts about big shifts in national capabilities and debatable claims about the motivations of the two countries. By contrast, the danger of crisis instability involving these two nuclear-armed states is a tangible near-term concern. An analysis that examines the current state of U.S.-China relations and compares it with key aspects of U.S.-Soviet relations during the Cold War indicates that a serious Sino-American crisis may be more likely and more dangerous than expected. The capabilities each side possesses, and specific features of the most likely scenarios for U.S.-China crises, suggest reasons to worry that escalation pressures will exist and that they will be highest early in a crisis, compressing the time frame for diplomacy to avert military conflict.
How New and Assertive Is China's New Assertiveness?
Authors: Johnston Alastair Iain
Published: April 2013

There has been a rapidly spreading meme in U.S. pundit and academic circles since 2010 that describes China's recent diplomacy as “newly assertive.” This “new assertiveness” meme suffers from two problems. First, it underestimates the complexity of key episodes in Chinese diplomacy in 2010 and overestimates the amount of change. Second, the explanations for the new assertiveness claim suffer from unclear causal mechanisms and lack comparative rigor that would better contextualize China's diplomacy in 2010. An examination of seven cases in Chinese diplomacy at the heart of the new assertiveness meme finds that, in some instances, China's policy has not changed; in others, it is actually more moderate; and in still others, it is a predictable reaction to changed external conditions. In only one case—maritime disputes—does one see more assertive Chinese rhetoric and behavior. The speed and extent with which the newly assertive meme has emerged point to an understudied issue in international relations—namely, the role that online media and the blogosphere play in the creation of conventional wisdoms that might, in turn, constrain policy debates. The assertive China discourse may be a harbinger of this effect as a Sino-U.S. security dilemma emerges.
Climate Change and Insecurity: Mapping Vulnerability in Africa
Authors: Busby Joshua W. , Smith Todd G. , White Kaiba L. , Strange Shawn M.
Published: April 2013

Many experts argue that climate change will exacerbate the severity and number of extreme weather events. Such climate-related hazards will be important security concerns and sources of vulnerability in the future regardless of whether they contribute to conflict. This will be particularly true where these hazards put large numbers of people at risk of death, requiring the diversion of either domestic or foreign military assets to provide humanitarian relief. Vulnerability to extreme weather, however, is only partially a function of physical exposure. Poor, marginalized communities that lack access to infrastructure and services, that have minimal education and poor health care, and that exist in countries with poor governance are likely to be among the most vulnerable. Given its dependence on rainfed agriculture and its low adaptive capacity, Africa is thought to be among the most vulnerable continents to climate change. That vulnerability, however, is not uniformly distributed. Indicators of vulnerability within Africa include the historic incidence of climate-related hazards, population density, household and community resilience, and governance and political violence. Among the places in Africa most vulnerable to the security consequences of climate change are parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and South Sudan.
Socioecology of wild bearded capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus): an analysis of social relationships among female primates that use tools in feeding
Authors: Verderane Michele P. , Izar Patrícia , Visalberghi Elisabetta , Fragaszy Dorothy M.
Published: April 2013

Socioecology considers that the features of food sources affect female social relationships in group-living species. Among primates, the tests of socioecological models are largely focused on Old World species and do not evaluate if the use of feeding tools affects the competitive regime over food and females’ relations in wild populations. We studied female social relationships among a wild population of bearded capuchins monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) that use percussive tools (stones) to crack encased foods, in a semi-arid habitat in Brazil. Females fed mainly on clumped, high quality resources, indicating that the habitat provides a high quality diet year-round. Females experienced contest competition within and between-groups. As predicted by socioecological models, females’ social relationships were characterized by philopatry, linear dominance hierarchies, coalitions, and tolerance in feeding bouts. Females spent a small proportion of their feeding time using tools. Nevertheless, tool sites generated high rates of contest competition and lower indices of tolerance among females. Although the social structure of our study population did not differ significantly from the pattern observed in wild populations of Sapajus that do not use tools, tool use increased within-group contest competition and apparently contributed to the linearity of the dominance hierarchies established among females. We predict that when tool use results in usurpable food resources, it will increase contest competition within group-living species.
Proportionality in Armed Conflicts: A Principle in Need of Clarification?
Authors: Clarke Ben
Published: April 2013

In their quest to find ways to reduce civilian casualties during armed conflict, States often emphasise the importance of compliance with fundamental rules of international humanitarian law that apply during the conduct of hostilities. Chief among them are the rules of distinction, proportionality and precaution. This contribution focuses on the proportionality principle. It examines whether there is a need for clarification or development of this rule. After highlighting reasons why clarification of the law on proportionality is necessary, the author proposes a guidance document on proportionality decision-making in armed conflict. To lay the foundation for such a document, the author identifies a range of issues that could be addressed in the document.
In Search of Legal Grounds to Detain for Armed Groups
Authors: van Amstel Nelleke
Published: April 2013

Arbitrary deprivation of liberty is prohibited by international law; hence even during armed conflict internment of adversaries must have a legal basis in international humanitarian law or national law. The law of non-international armed conflict contains an inherent power to intern. Nevertheless, a further legal source is needed to ensure detention is not arbitrary, outlining grounds and procedure of detention. Such legal grounds do not exist for internment by organised armed groups. This article will outline the possible consequences for members of armed groups when interning without a further legal basis, thus in violation of the prohibition of arbitrary detention, and will subsequently suggest solutions to overcome the imbalance between obligations imposed upon and instruments granted to these actors.
Comparative Analysis of two DNA Extraction Protocols from Fresh and Dried wood of Cunninghamia Lanceolata (Taxodiaceae)
Authors: Jiao Lichao , Yin Yafang , Xiao Fuming , Sun Qingpeng , Song Kunlin , Jiang Xiaomei
Published: April 2013

DNA was isolated from the sapwood, transition wood and heartwood of fresh and dried Cunninghamia lanceolata wood using two DNA extraction protocols: the modified CTAB method and the modified Qiagen kit. Our major objective was to (i) determine an optimized method for retrieving good quality and sufficient quantity of DNA from wood, and to (ii) investigate the effect of different radial positions of fresh and dried wood for DNA extraction. In comparison with the modified CTAB method, a greater quantity of higher quality DNA – both chloroplast and nuclear ribosomal DNA – was retrieved using the Qiagen kit protocol. The chloroplast DNA regions retrieved from both fresh and dried wood were successfully amplified using both protocols, but the PCR amplification for the rDNA-ITS region from the heartwood failed using both protocols. The quantity and purity of the DNA from the sapwood and transition wood (derived from nuclei and plastids in the parenchyma cells) was greater than that from the heartwood (derived mainly from amyloplasts). Due to the influence of the drying treatment, the quantity of DNA decreased by more than 50%. The optimized radial position for DNA extraction in the stem was demonstrated based on anatomical observation.
Revision of the Neotropical genus Eoneria Aczél (Diptera: Neriidae) with description of a new species from Colombia
Authors: SEPÚLVEDA TATIANA A. , WOLFF MARTA I. , DE CARVALHO CLAUDIO J. B.
Published: April 2013

Here we revise Eoneria Aczél, 1951, a small genus of flies in the Neriidae, previously known from two species from Argentina. We describe a new species, E. aczeli Sepúlveda & Carvalho from Colombia, provide new records from Brazil, a distribution extension from Argentina and a new genus diagnosis, as well as an identification key based on adult morphology.
Family placement of the enigmatic Otagia neozelanica (Chilton, 1897) Haustorioidea: Otagiidae fam. nov. (Amphipoda: Crustacea)
Authors: HUGHES LAUREN , LÖRZ ANNE-NINA
Published: April 2013

A neotype is designated for Otagia neozelanica (Chilton, 1897) and the new family Otagiidae is established for the mo-notypic genus Otagia. An assessment of the relationship of Otagiidae fam. nov. with the Haustorioidea families is pro-vided. The Otagiidae fam. nov. share a close relationship with seven other haustorioid families Cheidae, Condukiidae, Ipanemidae, Platyischnopidae, Phoxocephalopsidae, Sinurothoidae and Zobrachoidae.
The nuanced nature of work quality: Evidence from rural Newfoundland and Ireland
Authors: Cooke Gordon B , Donaghey Jimmy , Zeytinoglu Isik U
Published: April 2013

This article explores the relationship between job and work quality and argues that while it is important to examine job quality, to understand workers’ experiences fully, the focus should be on the broader concept of work quality, which places the job against its wider socio-economic context. Based on the experiences of 88 rural workers gathered via interviews in Newfoundland and Ireland, it appears that the same or similar jobs can be regarded very differently depending upon the context in which they are embedded, as people at different locations and/or stages of life have an individual set of aspirations, expectations and life experiences. The study found that the factors that affect work quality are moulded by broader aspects of life – family, friends, community, lifestyle and past experiences – that shape an individual.
The challenge of job quality
Authors: Findlay Patricia , Kalleberg Arne L , Warhurst Chris
Published: April 2013

Job quality is a timely issue because of its potential impact on individual, firm and national well-being. This renewed interest underscores the need for robust conceptualization of job quality. This article provides background to the renewed interest in job quality and, drawing on the contributions to the Special Issue, starts to map the dimensions of job quality, the factors that influence job quality, and the outcomes or impacts of job quality. We identify a number of emergent themes. First, job quality is a multidimensional phenomenon. Second, multiple factors and forces operating at multiple levels influence job quality. Third, the study of job quality is an inherently multi-disciplinary endeavour. Fourth, job quality is a contextual phenomenon, differing among persons, occupations and labour market segments, societies and historical periods. Our mapping of job quality, and the articles in the Special Issue, provide a foundation and springboard for understanding better the theoretically challenging and policy-relevant issue of job quality.
Radiation effects on composites for long-duration lunar habitats
Authors: Rojdev Kristina , O’Rourke Mary Jane E , Hill Charles , Nutt Steven , Atwell William
Published: April 2013

Fiber-reinforced composites are of great interest to NASA for deep-space habitation missions due to the specific strength, modulus and potential radiation shielding properties. However, the durability of these materials on long-duration missions has not been evaluated. Few studies have been conducted on the radiation effects of fiber-reinforced composites in space and even fewer have been conducted with high-energy protons, which replicate portions of the deep-space radiation environment. Furthermore, previous studies of carbon fiber-reinforced composites focused on pure epoxy composites, and aerospace composites in use today include toughening agents to increase the toughness of the material. These toughening agents are typically either rubber particles or thermoplastics, known to be susceptible to ionizing radiation, and could affect the overall composite durability when exposed to high-energy protons. Thus, NASA has undertaken a study to understand the long-term radiation effects on one such potential composite for use in deep-space habitats (boron fiber, carbon fiber and semi-toughened epoxy). Samples were irradiated with 200 MeV protons in air to different doses and evaluated via tensile tests, differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed evidence of a weakened matrix due to scission effects and interfacial failure as a result of resin debonding from the boron fibers.
First the Revolutionary Culture
Authors: Scarritt Arthur
Published: April 2013

The long-standing marginalization of highland Peru, coupled with the terrible violence of the 1980s and 1990s civil war, make it a difficult place for political mobilization. Nevertheless, one village successfully asserted its self-determination in the face of an exploitative political economy through conversion to Evangelical Christianity. A revolutionary cultural break from the mainstream created a vibrant local subculture that stressed brotherhood and provided meaning to adherents, allowing them to seize local opportunities to assert a more egalitarian social reality. While specific to this village’s conditions, these experiences speak to broader possibilities for innovative social change through novel combinations of cultural practices and political concerns.

La marginalización de larga data del altiplano peruano, junto con la terrible violencia de la guerra civil de las décadas de 1980 y 1990, dificulta la movilización política. Sin embargo, un pueblo hizo valer exitosamente su auto-determinación frente a una economía política explotador a través de la conversión al cristianismo evangélico. Una separación cultural revolucionaria de la corriente principal creó una vibrante subcultura que ponía énfasis en la hermandad y proporcionó sentido a los adherentes, permitiéndoles aprovechar de oportunidades locales para imponer una realidad social más igualitaria. Aunque fueron particulares a las condiciones de este pueblo, estas experiencias anuncian posibilidades más extensas de cambio social a través de combinaciones novedosas de prácticas culturales y asuntos políticos.
Time Pressure Undermines Performance More Under Avoidance Than Approach Motivation
Authors: Roskes Marieke , Elliot Andrew J. , Nijstad Bernard A. , De Dreu Carsten K. W.
Published: April 2013

Four experiments were designed to test the hypothesis that performance is particularly undermined by time pressure when people are avoidance motivated. The results supported this hypothesis across three different types of tasks, including those well suited and those ill suited to the type of information processing evoked by avoidance motivation. We did not find evidence that stress-related emotions were responsible for the observed effect. Avoidance motivation is certainly necessary and valuable in the self-regulation of everyday behavior. However, our results suggest that given its nature and implications, it seems best that avoidance motivation is avoided in situations that involve (time) pressure.
Supraclavicular Artery Island Flap (SCAIF) vs Free Fasciocutaneous Flaps for Head and Neck Reconstruction
Authors: Granzow Jay W. , Suliman Ahmed , Roostaeian Jason , Perry Adam , Boyd J. Brian
Published: April 2013

Objective

At our institution, the supraclavicular artery island flap (SCAIF) has become a reliable option for fasciocutaneous coverage of complex head and neck (H&N) defects. We directly compare the outcomes of reconstructions performed with SCAIFs and free fasciocutaneous flaps (FFFs), which have not been reported previously.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Retrospective review of consecutive single‐surgeon H&N reconstructions using fasciocutaneous flaps over 5 years. Reconstructions were divided into 2 groups: SCAIFs and FFFs. Patient demographics, surgical parameters, and outcomes were compared statistically between groups.

Results

Thirty‐four flaps were used in H&N reconstruction (18 SCAIFs and 16 FFFs). There was no difference in patient demographics, distribution of defects, or follow‐up (SCAIF 9.2 vs FFF 15.13 months, P =. 65) between the 2 groups. The SCAIFs were larger than the FFFs (164.6 ± 60 vs 111 ± 68 cm2, P <. 05) and had shorter total operative times (588 ± 131 vs 816 ± 149 minutes, P <. 05). Intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay was shorter for the SCAIF vs the FFF group (1.8 vs 5.6 days, P <. 05). Overall morbidity was not significantly different (SCAIF 39% vs FFF 44%, P = NS).

Conclusion

The SCAIF is a technically simpler and equally reliable sensate fasciocutaneous flap for H&N reconstruction with comparable outcomes, shorter operative time, less ICU stay, and no need for postoperative monitoring when compared with using FFFs. It should be considered a first‐choice reconstructive option for complex H&N defects.
The Rise and Call of Group Rap Therapy: A Critical Analysis from its Creator
Authors: DeCarlo Alonzo
Published: April 2013

Since its inception nearly a decade ago, Group Rap Therapy (GRT) as an intervention practice continues to be viewed in the United States with wariness due to its controversial alliance with a music genre that is unpalatable to some practitioners. Yet, its burgeoning global appeal as a creative mental health treatment protocol to researchers and practitioners suggests that this group therapeutic technique is likely to continue to grow. In this article, a historical account of GRT’s beginning and its purpose are highlighted. Critical reflections and analysis about the impact that GRT can have on prospective clients and practitioners are examined. Finally, considerations about refining and advancing the course of GRT are underscored to preserve the veracity of this innovative intervention practice for youth.
Status of neurocognitive and oxidative stress conditions in iron–steel workers
Authors: Malekirad Ali Akbar , Mirabdollahi Mansuoreh , Pilehvarian Ali Asghar , Nassajpour Ali Reza , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to determine oxidative stress status as well as ferrous (Fe) and Copper (Cu) levels in blood, neurocognitive impairment, and clinical markers in iron–steel workers. A comparative cross-sectional analysis was performed in 50 iron–steel workers who have been in contact with Fe and Cu in comparison with a control group containing 50 healthy subjects in the same age group and sex. Blood levels of lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant capacity, Fe, and Cu along with neurocognitive impairment were measured in workers and controls. Clinical examination was accomplished to record any abnormal sign or symptoms. Comparing with controls, the workers showed higher blood levels of lipid peroxidation and Cu and also a lower total antioxidant capacity. There was a positive correlation between work history and interstitial lung disease that strengths the presumption to progress to chronic obstructive lung disease in future. The results indicate that exposure to a combination of Fe and Cu in iron–steel workers induces oxidative stress. Especially, in the present case, toxic effect of Cu has been more than positive effects of Fe, but the combined exposure resulted in no such critical toxicity.
Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity of single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kim Jin Sik , Song Kyung Seuk , Yu Il Je
Published: April 2013

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have extensive potential industrial applications due to their unique physical and chemical properties; yet this also increases the chance of human and environment exposure to SWCNTs. Due to the current lack of hazardous effect information on SWNCTs, a standardized genotoxicity battery test was conducted to clarify the genetic toxicity potential of SWCNTs (diameter: 1–1.2 nm, length: ∼20 μm) according to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development test guidelines 471 (bacterial reverse mutation test), 473 ( in vitro chromosome aberration test), and 474 ( in vivo micronuclei test) with a good laboratory practice system. The test results showed that the SWCNTs did not induce significant bacterial reverse mutations at 31.3–500 μg/plate in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98, TA100, TA1535, and TA1537 or in Escherichia coli strain WP2uvrA, with and without a metabolic activation system. Furthermore, the in vitro chromosome aberration test showed no significant increase in structural or numerical chromosome aberration frequencies at SWCNT dose levels of 12.5–50 μg/ml in the presence and absence of metabolic activation. However, dose-dependent cell growth inhibition was found at all the SWCNT dose levels and statistically significant cytotoxic effects observed at certain concentrations in the presence and absence of metabolic activation. Finally, the SWCNTs did not evoke significant in vivo micronuclei frequencies in the polychromatic erythrocytes of an imprinting control region mice at 25–100 mg/kg. Thus, according to the results of the present study, the SWCNTs were not found to have a genotoxic effect on the in vitro and in vivo test systems.
Exploitation, inequality and power
Authors: Veneziani Roberto
Published: April 2013

The concept of exploitation is central in social and political theory, but there is no precise, widely accepted definition. This paper analyses John Roemer’s seminal theory, which construes exploitation as a distributive injustice arising from asset inequalities, with no reference to notions of power or dominance. Firstly, an intertemporal generalisation of Roemer’s static economies is set up and several doubts are raised on the claim that exploitation theory can be reduced to a kind of resource egalitarianism. Then, Roemer’s philosophical arguments that exploitation should be defined as a merely distributive concept are also questioned and it is argued that a notion of power, or dominance, is an essential part of the definition of exploitation.