bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Same at a First Glance: The Diffractogram of a New Polymorph of Anhydrous Sodium Luminolate Almost Perfectly Resembles the Diffraction Trace of an Already Known Polymorph
Authors: Martin Thomas , Greim Dominik , Milius Wolfgang , Niedermaier Michael , Ludescher Beate , von Wegerer Jörg , Brysch Wolfgang , Bärwinkel Kilian , Senker Jürgen , Breu Josef
Published: January 2015

A so far unknown third polymorph (form III) of 5‐amino‐2, 3‐dihydro‐1, 4‐phthalazinedione (luminolate) monosodium salt could be isolated phase pure and its structure was determined by powder X‐ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement [cell parameters: a = 8.0364(2) Å, b = 3.69765(5) Å, c = 26.4246(7) Å, β = 96.346(2)°, V = 780.42(3) Å3, space group P21/c]. The new structure shows many similarities to the structure of the known form II and the consequently slim differences in the diffraction traces could have easily been overlooked. Slurry experiments prove the new form to be more stable than form II. Both form II and form III crystallize in a lamellar structure. The layers are in turn built by shifted π‐stacked strands of hydrogen bonded luminolate dimers. The strands are canted by ± 25° in respect to the layers. While in form II the tilt direction alternates from strand to strand within a single layer, in form III all strands within a layer are tilted in the same direction and the orientation rather alternates between adjacent layers.
Clinical Outcomes Related to the Level of Clamping in Inferior Vena Cava Surgery
Authors: Jun Heungman , Han Youngjin , Park Hojong , Shin Sung , Cho Yong‐Pil , Kwon Tae‐Won
Published: January 2015

Objective

In most cases of inferior vena cava (IVC) surgery, IVC clamping is required owing to several factors, including renal cell carcinoma with IVC thrombus extension and IVC leiomyosarcoma. Various clinical results were compared following IVC clamping by classifying clamping levels into juxtarenal, infrahepatic, and suprahepatic. In particular, the risk factors of postoperative thrombosis after IVC clamping were assessed comparatively.

Methods

Eighty‐four patients who underwent IVC clamping owing to IVC pathology between 2002 and 2012 were retrospectively reviewed with regard to RBC transfusion, operation time, clamping time, liver and kidney functions, duration of hypotension, blood pressure (BP) drops, pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE), venous thrombosis, ICU stay duration, hospital stay duration, 30‐day morbidity, and 30‐day mortality. In addition, various clinical results were compared when postoperative thrombosis occurred after IVC clamping.

Results

Values for operation time, clamping time, units of RBC transfused, duration of hypotension, severity of BP drops, use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), aspartate aminotransferase, the use of inotropes, IVC patency, ICU stay, and hospital stay duration were significantly higher in the suprahepatic clamping group than in the other clamping groups. In addition, CPB use and IVC clamping level were significant risk factors for postoperative thrombosis after IVC clamping.

Conclusions

Although IVC clamping is a prerequisite for IVC surgery, operative durations, units of RBC transfused, and length of hospital stays increase with higher clamping levels. In addition, CPB use and IVC clamping level are significant risk factors for postoperative thrombosis. In IVC surgery with higher clamping levels, prompt hemodynamic support and proper anticoagulation therapy are important.
Corrosion behavior of the expandable tubular in formation water
Authors: Gao Shu-jun , Dong Chao-fang , Fu An-qing , Xiao Kui , Li Xiao-gang
Published: January 2015

The corrosion behavior of expandable tubular materials was investigated in simulated downhole formation water environments using a series of electrochemical techniques. The corrosion morphologies in the real downhole environment after three months of application were also observed by stereology microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results show that, compared with the unexpanded sample, the area of ferrite increases dramatically after a 7.09% expansion. The expanded material shows a higher corrosion current in the polarization curve and a lower corrosion resistance in the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) plot at every studied temperature. The determined critical pitting temperatures (CPT) before and after expansion are 87.5°C and 79.2°C, respectively. SEM observations demonstrate stress corrosion cracks, and CO2 corrosion and H2S corrosion also occur in the downhole environment. Due to additional defects generated during the plastic deformation, the corrosion performance of the expanded tubing deteriorates.
Effect of intermetallic phases on the anodic oxidation and corrosion of 5A06 aluminum alloy
Authors: Li Song-mei , Li Ying-dong , Zhang You , Liu Jian-hua , Yu Mei
Published: January 2015

Intermetallic phases were found to influence the anodic oxidation and corrosion behavior of 5A06 aluminum alloy. Scattered intermetallic particles were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after pretreatment. The anodic film was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and its corrosion resistance was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization in NaCl solution. The results show that the size of Al-Fe-Mg-Mn particles gradually decreases with the iron content. During anodizing, these intermetallic particles are gradually dissolved, leading to the complex porosity in the anodic film beneath the particles. After anodizing, the residual particles are mainly silicon-containing phases, which are embedded in the anodic film. Electrochemical measurements indicate that the porous anodic film layer is easily penetrated, and the barrier plays a dominant role in the overall protection. Meanwhile, self-healing behavior is observed during the long immersion time.
Invariance of the Gibbs measure for the periodic quartic gKdV
Authors: Richards Geordie
Published: January 2015

We prove invariance of the Gibbs measure for the (gauge transformed) periodic quartic gKdV. The Gibbs measure is supported on

H^{s}(\mathbb{T})

for

s < \frac{1}{2}

, and the quartic gKdV is analytically ill-posed in this range. In order to consider the flow in the support of the Gibbs measure, we combine a probabilistic argument with the second iteration and construct local-in-time solutions to the (gauge transformed) quartic gKdV almost surely in the support of the Gibbs measure. Then, we use Bourgain's idea to extend these local solutions to global solutions, and prove the invariance of the Gibbs measure under the flow. Finally, inverting the gauge, we construct almost sure global solutions to the (ungauged) quartic gKdV below

H^{\frac{1}{2}}(\mathbb{T})

.
Induction of Herpud1 expression by ER stress is regulated by Nrf1
Authors: Ho Daniel V. , Chan Jefferson Y.
Published: January 2015

Herpud1 is an ER‐localized protein that contributes to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis by participating in the ER‐associated protein degradation pathway. The Nrf1 transcription factor is important in cellular stress pathways. We show that loss of Nrf1 function results in decreased Herpud1 expression in cells and liver tissues. Expression of Herpud1 increases in response to ER stress, but not in Nrf1 knockout cells. Transactivation studies show that Nrf1 acts through antioxidant response elements located in the Herpud1 promoter, and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrates that Herpud1 is a direct Nrf1 target gene. These results indicate that Nrf1 is a transcriptional activator of Herpud1 expression during ER stress, and they suggest Nrf1 is a key player in the regulation of the ER stress response in cells.
Developmental changes in hypothalamic oxytocin and oxytocin receptor mRNA expression and their sensitivity to fasting in male and female rats
Authors: Matsuzaki Toshiya , Iwasa Takeshi , Munkhzaya Munkhsaikhan , Tungalagsuvd Altankhuu , Kawami Takako , Murakami Masahiro , Yamasaki Mikio , Yamamoto Yuri , Kato Takeshi , Kuwahara Akira , Yasui Toshiyuki , Irahara Minoru
Published: January 2015

Oxytocin (OT) affects the central nervous system and is involved in a variety of social and non‐social behaviors. Recently, the role played by OT in energy metabolism and its organizational effects on estrogen receptor alpha (ER‐α) during the neonatal period have gained attention. In this study, the developmental changes in the hypothalamic mRNA levels of OT, the OT receptor (OTR), and ER‐α were evaluated in male and female rats. In addition, the fasting‐induced changes in the hypothalamic mRNA levels of OT and the OTR were evaluated. Hypothalamic explants were taken from postnatal day (PND) 10, 20, and 30 rats, and the mRNA level of each molecule was measured. Hypothalamic OT mRNA expression increased throughout the developmental period in both sexes. The rats' hypothalamic OTR mRNA levels were highest on PND 10 and decreased throughout the developmental period. In the male rats, the hypothalamic mRNA levels of ER‐α were higher on PND 30 than on PND 10. On the other hand, no significant differences in hypothalamic ER‐α mRNA expression were detected among the examined time points in the female rats, although hypothalamic ER‐α mRNA expression tended to be higher on PND 30 than on PND 10. Significant positive correlations were detected between hypothalamic OT and ER‐α mRNA expression in both the male and female rats. Hypothalamic OT mRNA expression was not affected by fasting at any of the examined time points in either sex. These results indicate that hypothalamic OT expression is not sensitive to fasting during the developmental period. In addition, as a positive correlation was detected between hypothalamic OT and ER‐α mRNA expression, these two molecules might interact with each other to induce appropriate neuronal development.
Analysis of neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio as a prognostic element in the response to neoadjuvant therapy in rectal cancer
Authors: Polli Leonardo Vieira , Pinho Mauro
Published: January 2015

Introduction The previous radio-chemotherapy approach is highly relevant in the management of rectal cancer, collaborating on organ functional preservation, being performed prior to surgery. The inflammatory response plays an important role in this treatment.

Objective It consists in correlating the number of peripheral lymphocytes and the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio in the peripheral blood with tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods Review of medical records of patients with rectal cancer in HMSJ and HSJ Oncology Services since 2009 – cases submitted to neoadjuvant treatment with radio-chemotherapy.

Results Of those 96 patients with this disease who underwent neoadjuvant therapy with radio-chemotherapy, 35 patients were eligible; complete tumor response was observed in 11 cases (31%), and 9 were submitted to surgical treatment. Comparing the leukocyte parameters between patients with complete response (CR) and incomplete response (IR) the following values were observed: total number of leukocytes (mean) CR 7390.9 × IR 7220.4 (p = 0.8); total lymphocytes CR 2103 × IR 1960.9 (p = 0.4); neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio CR 3.55 × IR 3.79 (p = 0.5). The mean radiotherapy dose was 49.1 Gy, with CR 47.3 × IR 50.0 (p = 0.06).

Conclusion It was not possible to demonstrate in this study a significant relationship between complete tumor response to neoadjuvant therapy with respect to blood leukocyte parameters analyzed.
Anal fistula surgery in an outpatient setting: the Dubai experience
Authors: Hazim Wessam , Al-Ozaibi Labib , Azam Hadiel , Al-Mazrouei Alya , Al-Badri Faisal
Published: January 2015

Aim To determine whether surgery for transsphincteric and complex fistula-in-ano can be performed safely as a day case.

Method This is a retrospective study of 66 patients with transsphincteric and complex anal fistulas, initially managed with preliminary loose Seton followed by fistulectomy and sphincter repair 2–4 months later between March 2011 and March 2014. Patients were seen at the clinic 1 week, 3 months and 1 year post-operatively and were observed for complications and recurrences; incontinence was noted down and was graded according to the Cleveland Clinic score.

Result Twenty-five patients (38%) had high or complex fistulas and 32 (48.5%) had a history of previous surgery. All cases were done in an outpatient setting. The Seton was kept in situ for 2–5 months (2.6 months) followed by fistulectomy and sphincter repair. Complete healing was achieved within approximately 3.6 weeks (2–8 weeks). Fifty-one patients were followed up successfully for one year. Two patients had temporary flatus incontinence which had resolved over 2–3 months. Recurrence had occurred in 2 (3.9%) patients.

Conclusion Transsphincteric and complex fistulas can safely be operated on as day case surgeries with high patient satisfaction and less complication in the population we studied.
Surgical complications and metachronous rectal cancer risk in patients with classic familial adenomatous polyposis
Authors: Stevanato Filho Paulo Roberto , Aguiar Samuel , Ferreira Fábio O. , Nakagawa Wilson T. , Spencer Ranyell M. , Takahashi Renata M. , Bezerra Tiago S. , Lopes Ademar
Published: January 2015

Introduction Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), an autosomal dominant disease characterized by development of numerous adenomatous polyps in the colon and rectum, is caused by germline mutations in the Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) gene.

Methods To determine the surgical morbidity in patients with classical familial adenomatous polyposis and determine the incidence of metachronous colorectal cancer (CRC) in those undergoing total colectomy (TC) with ileorectal anastomosis or restorative total proctocolectomy (TPC) and ileal pouch anal anastomosis. We analyzed patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who received treatment and regular follow-up at the A.C. Camargo Cancer Center from 1994 to 2013.

Results Operative complications occurred in 22 patients (34.3%), 16 (25%) being early complications and 8 (12.5%) late complications. No mortality occurred as a result of postoperative complications. The incidence of metachronous rectal cancer after total proctocolectomy was 2.3% and after total colectomy 18.18% (p = 0.044).

Conclusions In order to provide better quality of life for individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis, total colectomy is commonly offered, as this simple technique is traditionally associated with lower rates of postoperative complications and better functional outcomes. However, it has become a less attractive technique in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis in its classical or diffuse form, since it has a significantly higher probability of metachronous rectal cancer.
Endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (E.P.Si.T.): a minimally invasive approach
Authors: Mendes Carlos Ramon Silveira , Ferreira Luciano Santana de Miranda , Sapucaia Ricardo Aguiar , Lima Meyline Andrade
Published: January 2015

Introduction The pilonidal cyst is a chronic inflammatory process that occurs frequently in the sacrococcygeal region. It is more common in males with a ratio of 3:1 and usually presents itself in the third decade of life. The treatment is mainly surgical with various forms. The search for new technologies as well as for a minimally invasive treatment has become of utmost importance in surgical routines. The technique E.P.Si.T. (endoscopic treatment of pilonidal cyst) developed by Meneiro has been quite interesting in the treatment of pilonidal cysts.

Surgical technique Anesthetized the patient in the supine position. Identified the drainage hole of the cyst, and began with the passage of fistuloscope studying the path of the cyst. Performs following the removal of all the tissue inside as the hair followed by cauterization of the path. Removed all devitalized tissue and enlargement of the opening of the cyst.
TESTIMONY, PRAGMATICS, AND PLAUSIBLE DENIABILITY
Authors: Peet Andrew
Published: January 2015

I outline what I call the ‘deniability problem’, explain why it is problematic, and identify the range of utterances to which it applies (using religious discourse as an example). The problem is as follows: To assign content to many utterances audiences must rely on their contextual knowledge. This generates a lot of scope for error. Thus, speakers are able to make assertions and deny responsibility for the proposition asserted, claiming that the audience made a mistake. I outline the problem (a limited version of which Fricker 2012 discusses), before explaining why it is problematic. Firstly it blocks testimonial knowledge according to assurance views. Secondly it prevents epistemic buck passing (the importance of which is emphasized by Goldberg 2006 and McMyler 2013). Finally, it removes a key disincentive to dishonesty. The recent literature on context sensitivity (particularly Cappelen and Lepore 2004) seems to entail that the problem applies to a very wide range of utterances. I consider a series of responses which fail to provide a solution, but which help us narrow down the scope of the problem.
Experimental and theoretical study of wave–current turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Yuan Jing , Madsen Ole S.
Published: January 2015

An experimental study of turbulent wave–current boundary layer flows is performed using a state-of-the-art oscillating water tunnel (OWT) for flow generation and a particle image velocimetry system for velocity measurements. The current velocity profiles in the presence of sinusoidal waves indicate a two-log-profile structure suggested by the widely-used Grant–Madsen model. However, for weak currents in the presence of nonlinear waves, the two-log-profile structure is contaminated or even totally obliterated by the boundary layer streaming which is produced by the asymmetry of turbulence in successive half-periods of nonlinear waves. To interpret experimental results, a semi-analytical model which adopts a rigorous way to account for a time-varying turbulent eddy viscosity is developed. The model can accurately predict turbulence asymmetry streaming, which leads to successful predictions of the mean velocity embedded in nonlinear-wave tests and the current velocity profiles in the presence of either sinusoidal or nonlinear waves. Since the Longuet-Higgins-type streaming due to wave propagation is absent in OWT flows and not included in the semi-analytical model, future work is necessary to extend this study for applications in the coastal environment.
Dynamic model of milk production responses to grass-based diet variations during grazing and indoor housing
Authors: JACQUOT A. -L. , DELABY L. , POMIÉS D. , BRUNSCHWIG G. , BAUMONT R.
Published: January 2015

Dairy cow systems based on grassland utilization are characterized by a variation of harvested forage quality from 1 year to another and a fluctuation of grass availability and quality during the pasture season. Consequently, the energy supplied by the diet – i.e., concentrates plus hay or silage in winter and grazing in summer, may not always match animal requirements. A modelling approach enables a representation of the complex relationships between the cow and pasture as they interact. A dynamic model of intake and milk production, focused on grassland utilization by the dairy cow, has been developed. The model operates in a deterministic fashion with a daily time step and is capable of dealing with a day-to-day variation in grass availability and quality at grazing as well as a constant feeding regime during the winter. The model has been built based on the theory that milk production is a result of (i) the energy requirements defined by the potential milk production and physiological status of dairy cows; (ii) the variation of energy supply by the diet; (iii) the ability of dairy cows to mobilize or store body reserves. The model was validated by comparing milk production predictions with experimental data (two groups of dairy cows in the winter time and one group at grazing). The model demonstrates a satisfactory range of accuracy (root-mean-square deviation equal to 1·8, 2·1 and 1·4 kg/cow/day). Model validations indicate that milk production predictions are sensitive to the diet offered (forage, grass and concentrate supply) and depend on dairy cow characteristics and their requirements (pMP). This model can be connected to a grass growth model in order to develop whole farm simulations.
Effect of storage conditions on losses and crop utilization of nitrogen from solid cattle manure
Authors: SHAH G. M. , SHAH G. A. , GROOT J. C. J. , OENEMA O. , RAZA A. S. , LANTINGA E. A.
Published: January 2015

The objectives of the present study were to quantify the effects of contrasting methods for storing solid cattle manure on: (i) total carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) balances during storage, and (ii) crop apparent N recovery (ANR) following manure application to arable land, with maize as a test crop. Portions of 10 t of fresh solid cattle manure were stored for 5 months during 2009/10 in three replicates as: (i) stockpiled heaps, (ii) roofed heaps, (iii) covered heaps and (iv) turned heaps at Wageningen University, the Netherlands. Surface emissions of ammonia (NH3), nitrous oxide (N2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) were measured regularly using a static flux chamber connected to a photo-acoustic gas monitor. Total C and N losses during storage were determined through the mass balance method. After storage, the manures were surface-applied and incorporated into a sandy soil, and maize ANR was measured as a proportion of both N applied to the field (ANRF) and N collected from the barn (ANRB).

During the storage period, the average losses of initial total N (Ntotal) were 6% from the covered, 12% from the roofed, 21% from the stockpiled and 33% from the turned heaps. Of the total N losses, 2–9% was lost as NH3-N, 1–4% as N2O-N and 16–32% through leaching. However, the greatest part of the total N loss from the four storage methods was unaccounted for and constituted in all probability of harmless dinitrogen gas. Of the initial C content,c. 13, 14, 17 and 22% was lost from the covered, stockpiled, roofed and turned heaps, respectively. Maize ANRFwas highest from covered (39% of the applied N) followed by roofed (31%), stockpiled (29%) and turned manure (20%). The respective values in case of maize ANRBwere 37, 27, 23 and 13%. It is concluded that from a viewpoint of on-farm N recycling the storage of solid cattle manure under an impermeable plastic cover is much better than traditional stockpiling or turning heaps in the open air.
Disabling hearing impairment in the Bangladeshi population
Authors: Tarafder K H , Akhtar N , Zaman M M , Rasel M A , Bhuiyan M R , Datta P G
Published: January 2015

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hearing impairment in Bangladeshi people of all ages.

Methods:

A nationally representative cross-sectional survey was carried out in 2013. A total of 4260 subjects (1774 males and 2486 females), with a mean age of 32 years, participated. Hearing impairment was determined by pure tone audiometry and otoacoustic emissions testing.

Results:

Disabling hearing loss (greater than 40 dB loss in adults, and greater than 30 dB loss in children younger than 15 years, in their better hearing ears) was present in 9.6 per cent (95 per cent confidence interval, 8.5–10.8 per cent) of the respondents. Hearing loss was more prevalent in socio-economically deprived people and in those older than 60 years. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified age, socio-economic deprivation, family history, impacted ear wax, chronic suppurative otitis media, otitis media with effusion, and otitis externa as the significant predictors of disabling hearing loss.

Conclusion:

Deafness prevention should focus mainly on chronic suppurative otitis media, otitis media with effusion, and impacted ear wax prevention, integrated within the primary healthcare system and addressing the equity issue.
Maternal depressive symptoms throughout pregnancy are associated with increased placental glucocorticoid sensitivity
Authors: Reynolds R. M. , Pesonen A.-K. , O'Reilly J. R. , Tuovinen S. , Lahti M. , Kajantie E. , Villa P. M. , Laivuori H. , Hämäläinen E. , Seckl J. R. , Räikkönen K.
Published: January 2015

Background

Maternal prenatal depression predicts post-partum depression and increases risk of prematurity and low birth weight. These effects may be mediated by altered placental function. We hypothesized that placental function would be influenced by the gestational week of experiencing depressive symptoms and aimed to examine associations between maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy and placental expression of genes involved in glucocorticoid and serotonin transfer between mother and fetus.

Method

We studied women participating in a prospective pregnancy cohort: the Prediction and Prevention of Preeclampsia (PREDO) Study, Helsinki, Finland. Maternal depressive symptoms were assessed at 2-week intervals throughout pregnancy in 56 healthy women with singleton, term pregnancies. Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of glucocorticoid (GR) and mineralocorticoid (MR) receptors and serotonin transporter (SLC6A4), 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD1) and 2 (HSD2) were quantified in placental biopsies.

Results

In adjusted analyses women who reported higher depressive symptoms across the whole pregnancy had higher mRNA levels of GR [effect size 0.31 s.d. units, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.01–0.60, p = 0.042] and MR (effect size 0.34 s.d. units, 95% CI 0.01–0.68, p = 0.047). These effects were significant for symptoms experienced in the third trimester of pregnancy for GR; findings for MR were also significant for symptoms experienced in the second trimester. GR and MR mRNA levels increased linearly by having the trimester-specific depressive symptoms scores 0, 1 or 2–3 times above the clinical cut-off for depression (p = 0.003, p = 0.049, respectively, and p = 0.004, p = 0.15 in adjusted analyses).

Conclusions

Our findings offer potential gestational-age-specific mechanisms linking maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy via placental biology. Future studies will test whether these also link with adverse offspring outcomes.
A comparison of depression and anxiety symptom trajectories between women who had an abortion and women denied one
Authors: Foster D. G. , Steinberg J. R. , Roberts S. C. M. , Neuhaus J. , Biggs M. A.
Published: January 2015

Background

This study prospectively assesses the mental health outcomes among women seeking abortions, by comparing women having later abortions with women denied abortions, up to 2 years post-abortion seeking.

Method

We present the first 2 years of a 5-year telephone interview study that is following 956 women who sought an abortion from 30 facilities throughout the USA. We use adjusted linear mixed-effects regression analyses to assess whether symptoms of depression and anxiety, as measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory-short form and the Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders Patient Health Questionnaire, differ over time among women denied an abortion due to advanced gestational age, compared with women who received abortions.

Results

Baseline predicted mean depressive symptom scores for women denied abortion (3.07) were similar to women receiving an abortion just below the gestational limit (2.86). Depressive symptoms declined over time, with no difference between groups. Initial predicted mean anxiety symptoms were higher among women denied care (2.59) than among women who had an abortion just below the gestational limit (1.91). Anxiety levels in the two groups declined and converged after 1 year.

Conclusions

Women who received an abortion had similar or lower levels of depression and anxiety than women denied an abortion. Our findings do not support the notion that abortion is a cause of mental health problems.
Luther's necessitarian argument inDe servo arbitrio
Authors: KRAAL ANDERS
Published: January 2015

InDe servo arbitrio(1525) Luther famously argues that the divine attributes of will, power, foreknowledge, and immutability are incompatible with (human) free will, and hence that free will is a ‘name with no reality’. I survey some earlier explications of Luther's argument in the literature, and reject them as exegetically unsound. I then go on to propose a new explication. On the proposed explication, Luther's argument turns out to be theologically cogent, provided that we follow Luther in understanding the relevant divine attributes in accordance with Augustinian theology.
Assessing Competence in Collaborative Case Conceptualization: Development and Preliminary Psychometric Properties of the Collaborative Case Conceptualization Rating Scale (CCC-RS)
Authors: Kuyken Willem , Beshai Shadi , Dudley Robert , Abel Anna , Görg Nora , Gower Philip , McManus Freda , Padesky Christine A.
Published: January 2015

Background: Case conceptualization is assumed to be an important element in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) because it describes and explains clients’ presentations in ways that inform intervention. However, we do not have a good measure of competence in CBT case conceptualization that can be used to guide training and elucidate mechanisms. Aims: The current study addresses this gap by describing the development and preliminary psychometric properties of the Collaborative Case Conceptualization – Rating Scale (CCC-RS; Padesky et al., 2011). The CCC-RS was developed in accordance with the model posited by Kuyken et al. (2009). Method: Data for this study (N = 40) were derived from a larger trial (Wiles et al., 2013) with adults suffering from resistant depression. Internal consistency and inter-rater reliability were calculated. Further, and as a partial test of the scale's validity, Pearson's correlation coefficients were obtained for scores on the CCC-RS and key scales from the Cognitive Therapy Scale – Revised (CTS-R; Blackburn et al., 2001). Results: The CCC-RS showed excellent internal consistency (α = .94), split-half (.82) and inter-rater reliabilities (ICC =.84). Total scores on the CCC-RS were significantly correlated with scores on the CTS-R (r = .54, p < .01). Moreover, the Collaboration subscale of the CCC-RS was significantly correlated (r = .44) with its counterpart of the CTS-R in a theoretically predictable manner. Conclusions: These preliminary results indicate that the CCC-RS is a reliable measure with adequate face, content and convergent validity. Further research is needed to replicate and extend the current findings to other facets of validity.
Public perception and characteristics related to acceptance of the sugar-sweetened beverage taxation launched in France in 2012
Authors: Julia Chantal , Méjean Caroline , Vicari Florence , Péneau Sandrine , Hercberg Serge
Published: January 2015

Objective

In France, an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages was introduced on 1 January 2012. Our objective was to assess perception of this tax as well as the sociodemographic characteristics of its supporters and opponents.

Design

Cross-sectional study within the Nutrinet-Santé cohort. A sub-sample of 1996 individuals was selected among participants in the Nutrinet-Santé cohort study. Perceptions of the sugar-sweetened beverage tax were assessed via self-administered questionnaires. The sociodemographic and dietary profiles of supporters and opponents of this tax were explored by multinomial logistic regression.

Setting

Nationally representative French sample, 2012.

Subjects

Adults aged >18 years (largest sample n 1996).

Results

Half of the study sample was generally supportive of the tax and 57·7 % perceived it as helpful in improving population health. Participants were more likely to support the tax model if the revenue it generated would be used for health-care system improvement (72·7 %) and if such taxing was associated with a corresponding decrease in the prices of other foodstuffs (71·5 %). Older participants were more likely to support the tax than were their younger counterparts (OR=2·37; 95 % CI 1·60, 3·49 for >65 years v. 26–45 years; P<0·001). Participants with lower educational levels were less likely to support the tax than were those with more formal education (OR=0·31; 95 % CI 0·19, 0·52 for low educational level v. high education level; P<0·001). In our models, sugar-sweetened beverage consumption was not associated with tax perception.

Conclusions

The French sugar-sweetened beverage tax appeared to be favourably perceived by the public. Sociodemographic factors modulated such perceptions and should thus be taken into consideration when drafting future public health measures.
The Spaces of Dream: Lutosławski's Modernist Heterotopias
Authors: REYLAND NICHOLAS
Published: January 2015

This article offers a revisionist perspective on the contested notion of Witold Lutosławski's authenticity as a modernist composer. In doing so, it seeks to contribute to musicology's increasingly nuanced narration of the story of musical modernism. The case is argued partly by relating Lutosławski's output to broader traditions in twentieth-century modernism, including musical representations of alienation, loss, violence, and nostalgia. Crucially, however, it is also argued by interpreting the more conventionally gratifying aspects of his pieces as something other than a hedonistic cop out. Adapting ideas from Michel Foucault, such passages are deemedheterotopianin function and interpreted in a wider-ranging sociohistorical context including Poland's responses to modernism and to Soviet Cold War oppression. The article's other main objective, therefore, is to interpret as heterotopian (and thus alternatively authentic) the expressive, structural and symbolic functions of passages in Lutosławski's works, thereby introducing Foucault's little-known idea to a wider audience of music scholars – given the concept's potential to contribute to critical explorations of a much wider diversity of musical texts and phenomena. Analysis of Lutosławski'sLes espaces du sommeilfor baritone and orchestra (1975) interconnects these strands.
Acoustics of the Everyday: Between Growth and Conflict in 1960s Japan
Authors: KANEDA MIKI
Published: January 2015

Focusing on a multimedia practice labelled ‘intermedia art’, this article shows how experimental musical practices complicate popular characterizations of the idea of politics in 1960s Japan that are polarized by their focus on extraordinary economic growth, on the one hand, and radical protest, on the other. Like their counterparts in art, experimental musicians and artists such as Shiomi Mieko, Kosugi Takehisa, and Yuasa Jōji took an interest in everyday sounds, spaces, and technologies as sites for artistic exploration. However, their musical approaches did not share the overtly political engagement with the scenes of protest playing out in the public sphere that played a central role in the visual arts. Through an investigation of the notion of ambiguity in the acoustics of intermedia, the article seeks to re-examine understandings about the role of sound in shifting perceptions about political participation.
FROM ANCESTRAL TONG TO JOINT-STOCK COMPANY: THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE YIP KWONG TAI TONG IN SOUTH CHINA, 1830s–1960s
Authors: Chung Stephanie Po-yin
Published: January 2015

The Kwong Tai Company (光大公司 1917–1960) holds a unique position in modern Chinese history as the first joint-stock company registered in British Hong Kong that originated as an ancestral tong in South China. Its history reflects how a traditional ancestral tong adjusted its operations in a unique historical setting and coped with a new identity. This case provides a missing chapter in the story of how traditional Chinese corporate institutions came to terms with Western ideas of the company and company law. By looking into the institutional and cultural transformations of the Yip Kwong Tai Tong, this article reveals how traditional Chinese institutions responded to political and economic changes in Republican China, when the state in China evolved into a different form, and the ritual-based society was in decline, especially when the world economic system entered coastal China.
DOHaD research with populations in transition: a case study of prenatal diet remote recall with Yup’ik Alaskan women
Authors: Giordano C. , Benyshek D. C.
Published: January 2015

Maternal prenatal diet can exert a powerful influence on the health of children when they reach adulthood – an orienting phenomenon in the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease research paradigm. Similar to other subsistence-based communities experiencing a rapid nutrition transition, obesity is increasing among Yup’ik Alaskans. Diabetes prevalence, however, remains relatively low and may reflect developmental nutritional processes that have yet to be thoroughly considered. Here we investigate recall of Yup’ik women’s diets during a past pregnancy using a mixed-methods approach as a critical first step in exploring such alternative developmental hypotheses. For certain populations, retrospective dietary reports might be the only source of information on factors relevant to understanding developmental pathways to health and disease. Our analysis identified community-specific factors that will likely improve the accuracy of future retrospective dietary analyses investigating the role of prenatal nutrition in the developmental origins of metabolic disease, especially among Alaska Natives.
Temporal and spatial regulation of translation in the mammalian oocyte via the mTOR–eIF4F pathway
Authors: Susor Andrej , Jansova Denisa , Cerna Renata , Danylevska Anna , Anger Martin , Toralova Tereza , Malik Radek , Supolikova Jaroslava , Cook Matthew S. , Oh Jeong Su , Kubelka Michal
Published: January 2015

The fully grown mammalian oocyte is transcriptionally quiescent and utilizes only transcripts synthesized and stored during early development. However, we find that an abundant RNA population is retained in the oocyte nucleus and contains specific mRNAs important for meiotic progression. Here we show that during the first meiotic division, shortly after nuclear envelope breakdown, translational hotspots develop in the chromosomal area and in a region that was previously surrounded the nucleus. These distinct translational hotspots are separated by endoplasmic reticulum and Lamin, and disappear following polar body extrusion. Chromosomal translational hotspots are controlled by the activity of the mTOR–eIF4F pathway. Here we reveal a mechanism that—following the resumption of meiosis—controls the temporal and spatial translation of a specific set of transcripts required for normal spindle assembly, chromosome alignment and segregation.
Concurrent radiotherapy and weekly chemotherapy of 5-fluorouracil and platinum agents for postoperative locoregional recurrence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Wen-Wen , Zhu Yu-Jia , Yang Han , Wang Qiao-Xuan , Wang Xiao-Hui , Xiao Wei-Wei , Li Qiao-Qiao , Liu Meng-Zhong , Hu Yong-Hong
Published: January 2015

The most optimal management for postoperative locoregional recurrence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma is still controversial. Several studies have reported the feasibility and efficacy of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), mostly with three-weekly or four-weekly schedule of chemotherapy. However, treatment compliance was not quite satisfactory, probably due to treatment-related toxicities. Since CCRT with weekly chemotherapy regimens have demonstrated a favorable toxicity profile as well as promising survival in certain types of cancer, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of radiotherapy concurrently with weekly chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and platinum agents for patients with postoperative locoregional recurrence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma in our center. Twenty-seven consecutive patients who were diagnosed with postoperative locoregional recurrence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma and received CCRT with weekly chemotherapy of 5-FU and platinum agents were retrospectively analyzed. Our data showed that the present protocol of radiotherapy combined concurrently with weekly chemotherapy of 5-FU and platinum agents was a safe and effective salvage treatment for postoperative locoregional recurrence of oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Apoptosis Signal-regulating Kinase 1 promotes Ochratoxin A-induced renal cytotoxicity
Authors: Liang Rui , Shen Xiao Li , Zhang Boyang , Li Yuzhe , Xu Wentao , Zhao Changhui , Luo YunBo , Huang Kunlun
Published: January 2015

Oxidative stress and apoptosis are involved in Ochratoxin A (OTA)-induced renal cytotoxicity. Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) is a Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinase Kinase (MAPKKK, MAP3K) family member that plays an important role in oxidative stress-induced cell apoptosis. In this study, we performed RNA interference of ASK1 in HEK293 cells and employed an iTRAQ-based quantitative proteomics approach to globally investigate the regulatory mechanism of ASK1 in OTA-induced renal cytotoxicity. Our results showed that ASK1 knockdown alleviated OTA-induced ROS generation and Δψm loss and thus desensitized the cells to OTA-induced apoptosis. We identified 33 and 24 differentially expressed proteins upon OTA treatment in scrambled and ASK1 knockdown cells, respectively. Pathway classification and analysis revealed that ASK1 participated in OTA-induced inhibition of mRNA splicing, nucleotide metabolism, the cell cycle, DNA repair and the activation of lipid metabolism. We concluded that ASK1 plays an essential role in promoting OTA-induced renal cytotoxicity.
The relevance of nanoscale biological fragments for ice nucleation in clouds
Authors: O′Sullivan D. , Murray B. J. , Ross J. F. , Whale T. F. , Price H. C. , Atkinson J. D. , Umo N. S. , Webb M. E.
Published: January 2015

Most studies of the role of biological entities as atmospheric ice-nucleating particles have focused on relatively rare supermicron particles such as bacterial cells, fungal spores and pollen grains. However, it is not clear that there are sufficient numbers of these particles in the atmosphere to strongly influence clouds. Here we show that the ice-nucleating activity of a fungus from the ubiquitous genusFusariumis related to the presence of nanometre-scale particles which are far more numerous and therefore potentially far more important for cloud glaciation than whole intact spores or hyphae. In addition, we quantify the ice-nucleating activity of nano-ice nucleating particles (nano-INPs) washed off pollen and also show that nano-INPs are present in a soil sample. Based on these results, we suggest that there is a reservoir of biological nano-INPs present in the environment which may, for example, become aerosolised in association with fertile soil dust particles.
MiR-148b suppresses cell proliferation and invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting WNT1/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Zhang Jun-gang , Shi Ying , Hong De-fei , Song Mengqi , Huang Dongsheng , Wang Chun-you , Zhao Gang
Published: January 2015

Accumulating evidences indicate that microRNAs play a vital role in regulating tumor progression. However, the roles of miR-148b in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are still largely unknown. In this study, our data showed that miR-148b was significantly downregulated in 40 pairs of human HCC tissues. Further, the deregulated miR-148b was significantly correlated with larger tumor size, more tumor number, metastasis and worse prognosis in HCC. Overexpression of miR-148b inhibited HCC HepG2 cells proliferation and tumorigenicity. Further, miR-148b induced cells apoptosis by activating caspase- 3 and caspase-9 and induced S phase arrest by regulating cyclinD1 and p21 and also inhibited cell invasion. Data from the dual-luciferase reporter gene assay showed that WNT1 was a direct target of miR-148b and overexpressed WNT1 inversely correlated with miR-148b levels in HCC tissues. Silencing of WNT1 inhibited the growth of HCC cells and also induced cells apoptosis and inhibited invasion, which is consistent with the effects of miR-148b overexpression. MiR-148b downregulated expression of WNT1, β-catenin and C-myc, while upregulated E-cadherin expression. We conclude that the frequently downregulated miR-148b can regulate WNT1/β-catenin signalling pathway and function as a tumor suppressor in HCC. These findings suggest that miR-148b may serve as a novel therapeutic target for HCC.
En route to traceable reference standards for surface group quantifications by XPS, NMR and fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Hennig Andreas , Dietrich Paul M. , Hemmann Felix , Thiele Thomas , Borcherding Heike , Hoffmann Angelika , Schedler Uwe , Jäger Christian , Resch-Genger Ute , Unger Wolfgang E. S.
Published: January 2015

A strategy is outlined, which will provide reference materials for surface functional group quantifications by XPS, NMR and fluorescence.
Application of titanium dioxide nanowires and electroreduced graphene oxide modified electrodes for the electrochemical detection of specific tlh gene sequence from Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Li Guangjiu , Liu Lihua , Cheng Yong , Zheng Wen , Wu Simeng , Wu Fan , Sun Wei
Published: January 2015

Electrochemical DNA biosensor was prepared using electroreduced graphene oxide, titanium dioxide nanowires and chitosan modified carbon ionic liquid electrode for the detection of the specific tlh gene sequence.
Fast and accurate determination of organophosphate pesticides using surface-enhanced Raman scattering and chemometrics
Authors: Weng Shizhuang , Li Miao , Chen Cheng , Gao Xiang , Zheng Shouguo , Zeng Xinhua
Published: January 2015

An approach is proposed for the fast and accurate determination of organophosphate pesticides by combining surface-enhanced Raman scattering and chemometric methods, including baseline subtraction, spectral pre-treatment, feature extraction and classification algorithms.
Designing nanomolar antagonists of DC-SIGN-mediated HIV infection: ligand presentation using molecular rods
Authors: Ordanini Stefania , Varga Norbert , Porkolab Vanessa , Thépaut Michel , Belvisi Laura , Bertaglia Andrea , Palmioli Alessandro , Berzi Angela , Trabattoni Daria , Clerici Mario , Fieschi Franck , Bernardi Anna
Published: January 2015

Rational design of DC-SIGN antagonists combines a selective glycomimetic ligand with trivalent dendrons spaced by a rigid core and allows to exploit multiple multivalency effects.
AsCat and FurCat: new Pd catalysts for selective room-temperature Stille cross-couplings of benzyl chlorides with organostannanes
Authors: Ronson Thomas O. , Carney Jonathan R. , Whitwood Adrian C. , Taylor Richard J. K. , Fairlamb Ian J. S.
Published: January 2015

Two novel succinimide-based palladium complexes, AsCat and FurCat, are highly efficient catalysts for room-temperature Stille cross-coupling of organostannanes with benzyl chlorides.
Crystal nucleation of salicylic acid in organic solvents
Authors: Mealey Donal , Croker Denise M. , Rasmuson Åke C.
Published: January 2015

Nucleation of salicylic acid in different solvents becomes gradually more difficult in the order: chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetonitrile, acetone, methanol and acetic acid. By comparing the results of metastable zone width and induction time experiments new insights are obtained.
Reversible oxygen addition on a triplet sensitizer molecule: protection from excited state depopulation
Authors: Filatov Mikhail A. , Heinrich Ernesta , Busko Dmitry , Ilieva Iliyana Z. , Landfester Katharina , Baluschev Stanislav
Published: January 2015

The molecular “chaff-flares” strategy for the protection of the triplet excited state from quenching by oxygen.
Spin decontamination of broken-symmetry density functional theory calculations: deeper insight and new formulations
Authors: Ferré Nicolas , Guihéry Nathalie , Malrieu Jean-Paul
Published: January 2015

This work proposes rigorous and physically based spin decontamination factors for broken-symmetry treatments of diradicals.
Electrochemical investigation of the role of MnO2nanorod catalysts in water containing and anhydrous electrolytes for Li–O2battery applications
Authors: Geaney Hugh , O'Dwyer Colm
Published: January 2015

The impact of MnO2nanorod catalysts on the nature of discharge products formed in Li–O2battery cathodes is examined in anhydrous and water containing electrolytes.