bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Habit as a Force of Life in Durkheim and Bergson
Authors: White Melanie
Published: May 2013

Emile Durkheim and Henri Bergson, two of the most important thinkers of early 20th-century France, give us different accounts of the relationship between habits, society and life. The article focuses on their use of embodied metaphors to illustrate how each thinker conceives of habit as a force of life. It argues that Durkheim uses the metaphor of ‘lifting’ to describe how social life creates habits capable of transcending bodily instinct. Bergson also recognizes the force of habits; he uses the language of leaping to describe the kind of action required to transcend them. The article makes three claims. First, it argues that these metaphors are central to each thinker’s understanding of the means by which habits attach us to life. Second, they offer a means of revisiting, and explicating, Bergson’s tacit critique of Durkheim in his Two Sources of Morality and Religion. Third, they both symbolize processes of conversion that inform each thinker’s diagnosis of the moral challenges faced in modern social life.
“After all – It doesn’t kill you to quit smoking”: An explorative analysis of the blog in a smoking cessation intervention
Authors: Brandt Caroline Lyng , Dalum Peter , Skov-Ettrup Lise , Tolstrup Janne Schurmann
Published: May 2013

Background: A growing body of literature demonstrates internet-based smoking cessation interventions as a promising aid in helping people quit smoking. However, the underlying mechanisms of how these interventions influence the cessation process are still relatively unknown. Several studies have indicated blogging as a potential source in providing social support to users of internet-based smoking cessation interventions and thereby enhance their change of succeeding in quitting. Objective: The study aimed to investigate themes discussed on a blog in an internet-based smoking cessation intervention. In addition, we examined if blogging could provide social support for people in a smoking cessation process. Method: The study was based on messages posted from 1 January 2012 to 29 February 2012 on the blog of the internet-based smoking cessation programme DDSP, operated by the Danish Cancer Society. Messages were coded according to themes using Grounded Theory, and additionally data about bloggers were analyzed. Result: In total, 1663 messages were posted within the 2-month period, and we identified 16 themes. The majority of messages contained personal stories or experiences (53%), provided emotional support (34%) or congratulated other users (17%). The messages were found capable of supplying social support to members on the blog. In addition, we found that only a minority of users who viewed the blog participated actively in posting messages, and only a minority was highly active bloggers. Conclusions: The blog offers a unique platform for informal conversations about quitting smoking and is important in providing social support to people in a smoking cessation process.
Social inertia and the field of creative labour
Authors: Brook Scott
Published: May 2013

While the emergent field of creative labour research provides a timely evidence-based reply to the hyperbole of the creative industries policy push, studies have remained speculative as to why so many people would seek careers in the creative sector. This article proposes that to adequately address this question requires a change in the scope of creative labour from ‘industries’ to ‘fields’. It briefly reviews cultural economic descriptions of artists’ labour markets, and suggests that Bourdieu’s notion of social inertia provides a plausible hypothesis concerning the social trajectories of those who are inclined to make a vocation of the cultural field. The article draws on a recent survey of student demand for university creative writing courses, identifying a cohort whose situation can be interpreted in terms of the social inertia effect. Such an approach shifts the focus of creative labour research from employment to ‘vocation’, and returns the notion of social status to the centre of explanation.
‘It is home but it is not home’: habitus, field and the migrant
Authors: Noble Greg
Published: May 2013

This article explores the utility of Bourdieu’s notions of habitus and field in examining the experience of migrant resettlement. It draws on a speech spoken in two languages at a community organisation event to suggest that resettlement entails the transformation of the embodied capacities of migrants and the formation of a new set of bodily capacities which never quite become the dispositions of the citizen who ‘belongs’ unconditionally. It argues that, through a process of disorientation and reorientation, some migrants acquire a corporeal and social awkwardness which embodies the learning of the ‘difference of difference’. This differentiation is less about personal experience than social location, and it is less about some primordial ‘ethnicity’ deriving from the homeland than an ‘ethnicised’ habitus that reflects that location within Australian social fields. The article challenges Bourdieu’s insistence on the complicit relation between habitus and field, arguing that we need to draw on a micro-sociological language of ‘settings’ to account for migrants’ experiences of moving across and switching between social fields.
Natural law and critical theory: Bringing rights back in
Authors: Fine Robert
Published: May 2013

This paper re-assesses the significance of the idea of ‘right’ in the tradition of critical theory. Focusing on the work of Hannah Arendt and Theodor Adorno, especially their confrontation with totalitarianism, it addresses their conceptualization of rights, their engagement with the philosophies of right created by Kant and Hegel, and the ambivalent place of Marx in their thinking about rights. My argument is that critical theory turned to natural rights in response to the perceived difficulties positive sociology had in confronting the barbarities of fascism and Stalinism. Critical theory steered a path between philosophies of right that acknowledged the idea of right within an unacceptably naturalistic frame of reference, and a sociological consciousness that de-natured the idea of right at the cost of its devaluation. Arendt and Adorno both confronted the contradictions of an age in which the rights of the individual were elevated as a supreme value while individuality was subjected to the forces of technological and economic determination. Both understood the barbarism of their times in terms of the disintegration of mediations between freedom and determination. Both recognized the gulf that separates the concept of rights from the material interests, inequalities and prejudices concealed behind them. And both drew on the critical substance of natural right theory to distinguish between the critique of rights, which has as its end their revaluation, and the trashing of rights, which serves to reinforce their devaluation. I argue that there is much to be gained, in terms of our understanding both of rights and of critique, from critical theory’s engagement with the natural law tradition.
Assessment of skeletal muscle microcirculation in type 2 diabetes mellitus using dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound: A pilot study
Authors: Amarteifio Erick , Wormsbecher Stephanie , Demirel Serdar , Krix Martin , Braun Simone , Rehnitz Christoph , Delorme Stefan , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Weber Marc-André
Published: May 2013

Purpose:

To investigate muscular micro-perfusion by employing dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and performing transient arterial occlusion in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM-2).

Methods:

Twenty DM-2 patients (mean age, 58 ± 8.6 years; duration of diabetes, 15.4 ± 12.1 years) and 20 healthy volunteers (mean age, 54 ± 5.4 years) participated. CEUS was applied to the calf, while 4.8 mL of SonoVue® was injected intravenously. At the thigh level, arterial occlusion (60 s) was performed. CEUS parameters (tmax, max, AUCpost and m) were evaluated and Pearson-product-moment correlation coefficients were computed.

Results:

A moderate negative correlation of HbA1c and max was established (−0.53). Max in patients with DM-2 >10 years was 79.89 ± 37.4. Max in patients with DM-2 duration <10 years was 137.62 ± 71.72 (p = 0.04). AUCpost in patients with DM-2 duration >10 years was 3924.01 ± 1630.52. AUCpost in patients with DM-2 duration <10 years was 6453.59 ± 3206.23 (p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Patients with long history of DM-2 present with impaired muscular perfusion. CEUS and transient arterial occlusion may provide appropriate methods for semi-quantitative evaluation of muscular micro-perfusion in patients with DM-2.
Dialogue as a Requiem for Analysis
Authors: Gildersleeve Ryan Evely , Kuntz Aaron M.
Published: May 2013

In this article, we offer dialogue as a means to avoid the objectification of data and the procedurization of analysis that so permeates traditional visions of educational inquiry. For our work, dialogue operates simultaneously as a means of inquiry, an engaging form of data, and an entwined means of analysis that disrupts normative formations of research as progressively linear. In this way, dialogue brings about the productive death of data-as-object for analysis. Functionally, our article is a dialogue, one that serves as a requiem for conceptions of analysis as outside data while simultaneously foregrounding data as dialogue. We present our dialogue asynchronously so as to exacerbate our resistance to synthesis and our commitment to a constant rebuilding of understanding. Our asynchronous representation underscores our commitment to dialogic contact, wherein texts live in contact with other texts, joining these texts to our dialogue.
Protective Effects of Ginaton on Vascular Endothelial Cells Injured by Angiotensin II and Hypoxia In Vitro
Authors: Han Lei , Li Minggao
Published: May 2013

The objective of this study was to explore the protective effect and possible mechanism of Ginkgo biloba extract (Ginaton) on human vascular endothelial cells (VECs) injured by angiotensin II (Ang-II) and hypoxia. The human aortic VECs were divided into different groups to observe the changes in endothelin (ET), intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i), and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). The results showed that Ginaton had inhibited ET secretion induced by hypoxia and Ang-II ( P < .01); the protective effects of mid (10 mg/mL) and low concentrations (5 mg/mL) of Ginaton was obviously higher than that of the high concentration (25 mg/mL); [Ca2+]i increased and MMP decreased significantly in both the hypoxia and the Ang-II groups ( P < .01); however, the changes in [Ca2+]i and MMP could be meliorated by Ginaton. This study suggested that Ginaton could effectively protect VECs against injury, and lower dose would be used clinically rather than the higher dose for obtaining better results.
Black minority ethnic communities and levels of satisfaction with policing: Findings from a study in the north of England
Authors: Barrett Giles A , Fletcher Samantha MG , Patel Tina G
Published: May 2013

Using data from an original qualitative study carried out during 2009–10 with a sample located in the north of England (NES), this article considers the satisfaction levels of black minority ethnic (BME) groups with a north of England police force (NEPF). The study sought to examine existing levels (as well as improve) satisfaction with police responses among BME populations. This was done by asking local BME communities about their encounters with NEPF, including how they felt the police should respond when they are a victim of crime and more broadly how the police could better engage with BME populations. What emerged in the responses was not just practical ‘solutions’ for ‘better engagement’ but a series of narratives that placed the broader historical and contemporary complexities, and recent developments of BME relations with the police into focus. The article begins by exploring current literature and claims to knowledge in the areas of problematic police responses, especially with the use of ‘race’1 in stop and search, and developments in communicating police progress. The literature setting the context draws upon case studies from the north of England but also more generally from across the UK, using examples that while geographically located beyond the NES context have had significant impact more broadly. The findings section discusses the qualitative data from the study and explores the emerging themes of communication and the local community nexus, disconnections from young people and police (ab)use of stop and search powers. The article highlights how in addition to actually policing in a fair way, direct and indirect communication plays a key role in satisfaction levels with police services. Achieving effective communication between the police force and BME groups is a complex matter, although not impossible, mediated at times by local and historical precedents with different BME groups.
Flexor tendon repair: a comparative study between a knotless barbed suture repair and a traditional four-strand monofilament suture repair
Authors: Joyce C. W. , Whately K. E. , Chan J. C. , Murphy M. , O’Brien F. J. , Carroll S. M.
Published: May 2013

We compared the tensile strength of a novel knotless barbed suture method with a traditional four-strand Adelaide technique for flexor tendon repairs. Forty fresh porcine flexor tendons were transected and randomly assigned to one of the repair groups before repair. Biomechanical testing demonstrated that the tensile strengths between both tendon groups were very similar. However, less force was required to create a 2 mm gap in the four-strand repair method compared with the knotless barbed technique. There was a significant reduction in the cross-sectional area in the barbed suture group after repair compared with the Adelaide group. This would create better gliding within the pulley system in vivo and could decrease gapping and tendon rupture.
Diabetes in women – A life-course approach
Authors: Morling Joanne R , Balkau Beverley , Wild Sarah H
Published: May 2013

The increasing prevalence of diabetes in combination with an aging population and increasing female longevity means that it is important to understand the effects of diabetes on women’s health. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes influence health outcomes throughout the life-course. This review article provides a summary of sex differences in diabetes epidemiology and covers specific aspects of the life-course in women including: the menarche, pregnancy and the menopause. It also discusses the associations with other conditions: cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and cancer.
Posttraumatic Chondrocyte Apoptosis in the Murine Xiphoid
Authors: Davis Christopher G. , Eisner Eric , McGlynn Margaret , Shelton John M. , Richardson James , Borrelli Joseph , Chen Christopher C.T.
Published: May 2013

Objective:

To demonstrate posttraumatic chondrocyte apoptosis in the murine xiphoid after a crush-type injury and to ultimately determine the pathway (i.e., intrinsic or extrinsic) by which chondrocytes undergo apoptosis in response to mechanical injury.

Design:

The xiphoids of adult female wild-type mice were injured with the use of a modified Kelly clamp. Postinjury xiphoid cartilage was analyzed via 3 well-described independent means of assessing apoptosis in chondrocytes: hematoxylin and eosin staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, and activated caspase-3 staining.

Results:

Injured specimens contained many chondrocytes with evidence of apoptosis, which is characterized by cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, nuclear fragmentation, and the liberation of apoptotic bodies. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of chondrocytes undergoing apoptosis in the injured specimens as compared with the uninjured specimens.

Conclusions:

Chondrocytes can be stimulated to undergo apoptosis as a result of mechanical injury. These experiments involving predominantly cartilaginous murine xiphoid in vivo establish a baseline for future investigations that employ the genetic and therapeutic modulation of chondrocyte apoptosis in response to mechanical injury.
The Relationship Between Use of the Internet and Traditional Information Sources
Authors: Kitamura Satoshi
Published: May 2013

This study examines how the spread of the Internet has affected Japanese people’s information acquisition from traditional media or via traditional information channels. In particular, this study focuses on displacement and complementary effects and on devices for Internet access. Using representative data from Japan ( N = 1,179), the results show that Internet use via mobile phone has complementary effects on information acquisition from traditional media, while Internet use via personal computers does not. In addition, the results show that Internet use via personal computers has a displacement effect on information acquisition from radio. These findings are discussed with regard to communication means, social contexts, and media interfaces.
Electronic Aggression Among Emerging Adults
Authors: Kellerman Ilana , Margolin Gayla , Borofsky Larissa A. , Baucom Brian R. , Iturralde Esti
Published: May 2013

The present study used quantitative and qualitative methods to investigate contextual factors and motivations associated with emerging adults’ electronic aggression victimization and perpetration with friends and dating partners. Participants ( N = 226) reported online about electronic aggression occurrence and motivations, family risk, support from friends, and emotion regulation. Males reported more victimization than perpetration overall, whereas females reported more victimization than perpetration only with friends. Jealousy/insecurity emerged as the most common motivation for electronic perpetration; second most common was humor for males and negative emotion for females. Overall, risky family environment was associated with electronic aggression; yet, support from friends and emotion regulation each moderated this association. Discussion addresses potential miscommunications that can occur in electronic communication and the need to look at the interplay between in-person and online interactions.
Ofatumumab in combination with ICE or DHAP chemotherapy in relapsed or refractory intermediate grade B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Matasar Matthew J. , Czuczman Myron S. , Rodriguez Maria Alma , Fennessy Michael , Shea Thomas C. , Spitzer Gary , Lossos Izidore S. , Kharfan-Dabaja Mohamed A. , Joyce Robin , Fayad Luis , Henkel Kristen , Liao Qiming , Edvardsen Klaus , Jewell Roxanne C. , Fecteau Doug , Singh Rajendra P. , Lisby Steen , Moskowitz Craig H.
Published: May 2013

Key Points

Replacing rituximab with ofatumumab in second-line therapy for intermediate grade lymphoma does not increase toxicity; ORR/CR are encouraging. An ongoing randomized phase III trial will compare rituximab with ofatumumab, combined with chemotherapy, in relapsed or refractory DLBCL.
High genetic diversity at the regional scale and possible speciation in Sebacina epigaea and S. incrustans
Authors: Riess Kai , Oberwinkler Franz , Bauer Robert , Garnica Sigisfredo
Published: May 2013

Background

Phylogenetic studies, particularly those based on rDNA sequences from plant roots and basidiomata, have revealed a strikingly high genetic diversity in the Sebacinales. However, the factors determining this genetic diversity at higher and lower taxonomic levels within this order are still unknown. In this study, we analysed patterns of genetic variation within two morphological species, Sebacina epigaea and S. incrustans, based on 340 DNA haplotype sequences of independent genetic markers from the nuclear (ITS + 5.8S + D1/D2, RPB2) and mitochondrial (ATP6) genomes for 98 population samples. By characterising the genetic population structure within these species, we provide insights into species boundaries and the possible factors responsible for genetic diversity at a regional geographic scale.

Results

We found that recombination events are relatively common between natural populations within Sebacina epigaea and S. incrustans, and play a significant role in generating intraspecific genetic diversity. Furthermore, we also found that RPB2 and ATP6 genes display higher levels of intraspecific synonymous polymorphism. Phylogenetic and demographic analyses based on nuclear and mitochondrial loci revealed three distinct phylogenetic lineages within of each of the morphospecies S. epigaea and S. incrustans: one major and widely distributed lineage, and two geographically restricted lineages, respectively. We found almost no differential morphological or ecological characteristics that could be used to discriminate between these lineages.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that recombination and negative selection have played significant roles in generating genetic diversity within these morphological species at small geographical scales. Concordance between gene genealogies identified lineages/cryptic species that have evolved independently for a relatively long period of time. These putative species were not associated with geographic provenance, geographic barrier, host preference or distinct phenotypic innovations.
Variant G6PD levels promote tumor cell proliferation or apoptosis via the STAT3/5 pathway in the human melanoma xenograft mouse model
Authors: Hu Tao , Zhang Chunhua , Tang Qiongling , Su Yanan , Li Bo , Chen Long , Zhang Zheng , Cai Tianchi , Zhu Yuechun
Published: May 2013

Background

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), elevated in tumor cells, catalyzes the first reaction in the pentose-phosphate pathway. The regulation mechanism of G6PD and pathological change in human melanoma growth remains unknown.

Methods

HEM (human epidermal melanocyte) cells and human melanoma cells with the wild-typeG6PDgene (A375-WT), G6PD deficiency (A375-G6PD∆), G6PD cDNA overexpression (A375-G6PD∆-G6PD-WT), and mutant G6PD cDNA (A375-G6PD∆-G6PD-G487A) were subcutaneously injected into 5 groups of nude mice. Expressions of G6PD, STAT3, STAT5, cell cycle-related proteins, and apoptotic proteins as well as mechanistic exploration of STAT3/STAT5 were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), immunohistochemistry and western blot.

Results

Delayed formation and slowed growth were apparent in A375-G6PD∆ cells, compared to A375-WT cells. Significantly decreased G6PD expression and activity were observed in tumor tissues induced by A375-G6PD∆, along with down-regulated cell cycle proteins cyclin D1, cyclin E, p53, and S100A4. Apoptosis-inhibited factors Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl were up-regulated; however, apoptosis factor Fas was down-regulated, compared to A375-WT cells. Moderate protein expressions were observed in A375-G6PD∆-G6PD-WT and A375-G6PD∆-G6PD-G487A cells.

Conclusions

G6PD may regulate apoptosis and expression of cell cycle-related proteins through phosphorylation of transcription factors STAT3 and STAT5, thus mediating formation and growth of human melanoma cells. Further study will, however, be required to determine potential clinical applications.
Antioxidant-mediated up-regulation of OGG1 via NRF2 induction is associated with inhibition of oxidative DNA damage in estrogen-induced breast cancer
Authors: Singh Bhupendra , Chatterjee Anwesha , Ronghe Amruta M , Bhat Nimee K , Bhat Hari K
Published: May 2013

Background

Estrogen metabolism-mediated oxidative stress is suggested to play an important role in estrogen-induced breast carcinogenesis. We have earlier demonstrated that antioxidants, vitamin C (Vit C) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) inhibit 17β-estradiol (E2)-mediated oxidative stress and oxidative DNA damage, and breast carcinogenesis in female August Copenhagen Irish (ACI) rats. The objective of the present study was to characterize the mechanism by which above antioxidants prevent DNA damage during breast carcinogenesis.

Methods

Female ACI rats were treated with E2; Vit C; Vit C + E2; BHA; and BHA + E2 for up to 240 days. mRNA and protein levels of a DNA repair enzyme 8-Oxoguanine DNA glycosylase (OGG1) and a transcription factor NRF2 were quantified in the mammary and mammary tumor tissues of rats after treatment with E2 and compared with that of rats treated with antioxidants either alone or in combination with E2.

Results

The expression of OGG1 was suppressed in mammary tissues and in mammary tumors of rats treated with E2. Expression of NRF2 was also significantly suppressed in E2-treated mammary tissues and in mammary tumors. Vitamin C or BHA treatment prevented E2-mediated decrease in OGG1 and NRF2 levels in the mammary tissues. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirmed that antioxidant-mediated induction of OGG1 was through increased direct binding of NRF2 to the promoter region of OGG1. Studies using silencer RNA confirmed the role of OGG1 in inhibition of oxidative DNA damage.

Conclusions

Our studies suggest that antioxidants Vit C and BHA provide protection against oxidative DNA damage and E2-induced mammary carcinogenesis, at least in part, through NRF2-mediated induction of OGG1.
Incidence and costs of bleeding-related complications in French hospitals following surgery for various diagnoses
Authors: Ye Xin , Lafuma Antoine , Torreton Elodie , Arnaud Axel
Published: May 2013

Background

Limited information is available on the epidemiology and economics of bleeding during surgery in France.

Method

The objective of this study was to examine the incidence, costs and length of stay (LOS) of bleeding-related complications during various surgical procedures.

A retrospective DRG (diagnosis-related group) analysis was conducted using the French National database PMSI (Programme Médicalisé des Systèmes d’Informations). Patients undergoing surgery during 2008 were identified according to their DRG classifications and those with at least one episode of secondary haemostasis and blood transfusion (according to French procedure codes) were designated as ‘with bleeding’ (WB). The analysis focussed on DRGs where ≥10% of patients presenting with bleeding and compared them to patients who did not require blood transfusions (i.e. without bleeding: WoB).

Hospital LOS and costs (age and gender adjusted) were compared between WB and WoB patients within each DRG. Hospitalisation periods exceeding the LOS average (derived from the PMSI database) were compared using multivariate logistic regression adjusted for patient characteristics.

Results

Amongst all 88 different surgical DRGs recognised by the French database 24 (totalling 321,657 hospitalisations) yielded WB rates ≥10% (range 10.3–25.3%). The highest DRG rates were for transplantations, cardiac and major orthopaedic surgery, vascular and solid organ surgery.

The average LOS for the WB population (adjusted for age, gender, number of procedures and secondary diagnoses) were 3.38 days (26.5%) longer than for the WoB population (p < 0.001). The average adjusted LOS costs for a WB patient were estimated at €12,087, and for a WoB patient €10,086 i.e. 19.9% higher than for WB patients (p < 0.001). The overall mean LOS was exceeded by 42.3% of WB patients compared to 37.0% of WoB patients (p < 0.001). Also, WB patients were more likely to exceed the average LOS than were WoB patients (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1.09, p < 0.001), after adjusting for patient characteristics.

Conclusions

The present study for France demonstrates a significant increase of hospital LOS and associated costs following post-surgical bleeding, supporting the need for blood conservation strategies.
Increasing the library size in cDNA display by optimizing purification procedures
Authors: Mochizuki Yuki , Kumachi Shigefumi , Nishigaki Koichi , Nemoto Naoto
Published: May 2013

Background

The library size is critical for selection in evolutionary molecular engineering (directed evolution). Although cDNA display has become a promising in vitro display technology by overcoming the instability of mRNA display, it is hindered by low yields. In this study, we improved the yield of cDNA display molecules by carefully examining each step of the preparation process.

Findings

We found that steric hindrance of ribosomes binding to the mRNA-protein fusion molecules was interfering with biotin-streptavidin binding. Additionally, reducing buffer exchange by performing RNase digestion in the His-tag-binding buffer to release the cDNA display molecules improved their His-tag purification.

Conclusion

Our optimized conditions have improved the yield of cDNA display molecules by more than 10 times over currently used methods, making cDNA display more practically available in evolutionary molecular engineering.
One-step large-scale synthesis of micrometer-sized silver nanosheets by a template-free electrochemical method
Authors: Park Sun Hwa , Son Jin Gyeong , Lee Tae Geol , Park Hyun Min , Song Jae ong
Published: May 2013

We have synthesized micrometer-sized Ag nanosheets via a facile, one-step, template-free electrochemical deposition in an ultra-dilute silver nitrate aqueous electrolyte. The nanosheet growth was revealed to occur in three stages: (1) formation of polygonal Ag nuclei on a substrate, (2) growth of {112}-faceted nanowire from the nuclei, and (3) anisotropic growth of (111)-planar nanosheets, approximately 20 to 50 nm in thickness and 10 μm in width, in the <112>−direction. The vertical growth of the facet nanowire was induced by the strong interface anisotropy between the deposit and electrolyte due to the ultra-dilute concentration of electrolyte and high reduction potential. The thickness of Ag nanosheets was controllable by the adjustment of the reduction/oxidation potential and frequency of the reverse-pulse potentiodynamic mode.
Gold nanolayer and nanocluster coatings induced by heat treatment and evaporation technique
Authors: Schaub Anna , Slepička Petr , Kašpárková Irena , Malinský Petr , Macková Anna , Švorčík Václav
Published: May 2013

The paper is focused on the preparation and surface characterization of gold coatings and nanostructures deposited on glass substrate. Different approaches for the layer preparation were applied. The gold was deposited on the glass with (i) room temperature, (ii) glass heated to 300°C, and (iii) the room temperature-deposited glass which was consequently annealed to 300°C. The sheet resistance and concentration of free carriers were determined by the van der Pauw method. Surface morphology was characterized using an atomic force microscopy. The optical properties of gold nanostructures were measured by UV–vis spectroscopy. The evaporation technique combined with simultaneous heating of the glass leads to change of the sheet resistance, surface roughness, and optical properties of gold nanostructures. The electrically continuous layers are formed for significantly higher thickness (18 nm), if the substrate is heated during evaporation process. The annealing process influences both the structure and optical properties of gold nanostructures. The elevated temperature of glass during evaporation amplifies the peak of plasmon resonance in the structures, the surface morphology being significantly altered.
Functional divergence of the brain-size regulating gene MCPH1during primate evolution and the origin of humans
Authors: Shi Lei , Li Ming , Lin Qiang , Qi Xuebin , Su Bing
Published: May 2013

Background

One of the key genes that regulate human brain size, MCPH1 has evolved under strong Darwinian positive selection during the evolution of primates. During this evolution, the divergence of MCPH1 protein sequences among primates may have caused functional changes that contribute to brain enlargement.

Results

To test this hypothesis, we used co-immunoprecipitation and reporter gene assays to examine the activating and repressing effects of MCPH1 on a set of its down-stream genes and then compared the functional outcomes of a series of mutant MCPH1 proteins that carry mutations at the human- and great-ape-specific sites. The results demonstrate that the regulatory effects of human MCPH1 and rhesus macaque MCPH1 are different in three of eight down-stream genes tested (p73, cyclinE1 and p14

ARF
), suggesting a functional divergence of MCPH1 between human and non-human primates. Further analyses of the mutant MCPH1 proteins indicated that most of the human-specific mutations could change the regulatory effects on the down-stream genes. A similar result was also observed for one of the four great-ape-specific mutations.

Conclusions

Collectively, we propose that during primate evolution in general and human evolution in particular, the divergence of MCPH1 protein sequences under Darwinian positive selection led to functional modifications, providing a possible molecular mechanism of how MCPH1 contributed to brain enlargement during primate evolution and human origin.
Cost effectiveness of patient education for the prevention of falls in hospital: economic evaluation from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Haines Terry P , Hill Anne-Marie , Hill Keith D , Brauer Sandra G , Hoffmann Tammy , Etherton-Beer Christopher , McPhail Steven M
Published: May 2013

Background

Falls are one of the most frequently occurring adverse events that impact upon the recovery of older hospital inpatients. Falls can threaten both immediate and longer-term health and independence. There is need to identify cost-effective means for preventing falls in hospitals. Hospital-based falls prevention interventions tested in randomized trials have not yet been subjected to economic evaluation.

Methods

Incremental cost-effectiveness analysis was undertaken from the health service provider perspective, over the period of hospitalization (time horizon) using the Australian Dollar (A$) at 2008 values. Analyses were based on data from a randomized trial among n = 1,206 acute and rehabilitation inpatients. Decision tree modeling with three-way sensitivity analyses were conducted using burden of disease estimates developed from trial data and previous research. The intervention was a multimedia patient education program provided with trained health professional follow-up shown to reduce falls among cognitively intact hospital patients.

Results

The short-term cost to a health service of one cognitively intact patient being a faller could be as high as A$14,591 (2008). The education program cost A$526 (2008) to prevent one cognitively intact patient becoming a faller and A$294 (2008) to prevent one fall based on primary trial data. These estimates were unstable due to high variability in the hospital costs accrued by individual patients involved in the trial. There was a 52% probability the complete program was both more effective and less costly (from the health service perspective) than providing usual care alone. Decision tree modeling sensitivity analyses identified that when provided in real life contexts, the program would be both more effective in preventing falls among cognitively intact inpatients and cost saving where the proportion of these patients who would otherwise fall under usual care conditions is at least 4.0%.

Conclusions

This economic evaluation was designed to assist health care providers decide in what circumstances this intervention should be provided. If the proportion of cognitively intact patients falling on a ward under usual care conditions is 4% or greater, then provision of the complete program in addition to usual care will likely both prevent falls and reduce costs for a health service.

Trial registration

Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Register: ACTRN12608000015347.
Host response to cuckoo song is predicted by the future risk of brood parasitism
Authors: Kleindorfer Sonia , Evans Christine , Colombelli-Négrel Diane , Robertson Jeremy , Griggio Matteo , Hoi Herbert
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Risk assessment occurs over different temporal and spatial scales and is selected for when individuals show an adaptive response to a threat. Here, we test if birds respond to the threat of brood parasitism using the acoustical cues of brood parasites in the absence of visual stimuli. We broadcast the playback of song of three brood parasites (Chalcites cuckoo species) and a sympatric non-parasite (striated thornbill, Acanthiza lineata) in the territories of superb fairy-wrens (Malurus cyaneus) during the peak breeding period and opportunistic breeding period. The three cuckoo species differ in brood parasite prevalence and the probability of detection by the host, which we used to rank the risk of parasitism (high risk, moderate risk, low risk).

Results

Host birds showed the strongest response to the threat of cuckoo parasitism in accordance with the risk of parasitism. Resident wrens had many alarm calls and close and rapid approach to the playback speaker that was broadcasting song of the high risk brood parasite (Horsfield’s bronze-cuckoo, C. basalis) across the year (peak and opportunistic breeding period), some response to the moderate risk brood parasite (shining bronze-cuckoo, C. lucidus) during the peak breeding period, and the weakest response to the low risk brood parasite (little bronze-cuckoo, C. minutillus). Playback of the familiar control stimulus in wren territories evoked the least response.

Conclusion

Host response to the threat of cuckoo parasitism was assessed using vocal cues of the cuckoo and was predicted by the risk of future parasitism.
Best strategies to implement clinical pathways in an emergency department setting: study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jabbour Mona , Curran Janet , Scott Shannon D , Guttman Astrid , Rotter Thomas , Ducharme Francine M , Lougheed M Diane , McNaughton-Filion M Louise , Newton Amanda , Shafir Mark , Paprica Alison , Klassen Terry , Taljaard Monica , Grimshaw Jeremy , Johnson David W
Published: May 2013

Background

The clinical pathway is a tool that operationalizes best evidence recommendations and clinical practice guidelines in an accessible format for ‘point of care’ management by multidisciplinary health teams in hospital settings. While high-quality, expert-developed clinical pathways have many potential benefits, their impact has been limited by variable implementation strategies and suboptimal research designs. Best strategies for implementing pathways into hospital settings remain unknown. This study will seek to develop and comprehensively evaluate best strategies for effective local implementation of externally developed expert clinical pathways.

Design/methods

We will develop a theory-based and knowledge user-informed intervention strategy to implement two pediatric clinical pathways: asthma and gastroenteritis. Using a balanced incomplete block design, we will randomize 16 community emergency departments to receive the intervention for one clinical pathway and serve as control for the alternate clinical pathway, thus conducting two cluster randomized controlled trials to evaluate this implementation intervention. A minimization procedure will be used to randomize sites. Intervention sites will receive a tailored strategy to support full clinical pathway implementation. We will evaluate implementation strategy effectiveness through measurement of relevant process and clinical outcomes. The primary process outcome will be the presence of an appropriately completed clinical pathway on the chart for relevant patients. Primary clinical outcomes for each clinical pathway include the following: Asthma—the proportion of asthmatic patients treated appropriately with corticosteroids in the emergency department and at discharge; and Gastroenteritis—the proportion of relevant patients appropriately treated with oral rehydration therapy. Data sources include chart audits, administrative databases, environmental scans, and qualitative interviews. We will also conduct an overall process evaluation to assess the implementation strategy and an economic analysis to evaluate implementation costs and benefits.

Discussion

This study will contribute to the body of evidence supporting effective strategies for clinical pathway implementation, and ultimately reducing the research to practice gaps by operationalizing best evidence care recommendations through effective use of clinical pathways.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT01815710
Ionic liquids as a tool for lignocellulosic biomass fractionation
Authors: da Costa Lopes Andre M , João Karen G , Morais Ana Rita C , Bogel-Łukasik Ewa , Bogel-Łukasik Rafał
Published: May 2013

Lignocellulosic biomass composes a diversity of feedstock raw materials representing an abundant and renewable carbon source. In majority lignocellulose is constituted by carbohydrate macromolecules, namely cellulose and hemicellulose, and by lignin, a polyphenilpropanoid macromolecule. Between these biomacromolecules, there are several covalent and non-covalent interactions defining an intricate, complex and rigid structure of lignocellulose. The deconstruction of the lignocellulosic biomass makes these fractions susceptible for easier transformation to large number of commodities including energy, chemicals and material within the concept of biorefinery. Generally, the biomass pre-treatment depends on the final goal in the biomass processing. The recalcitrance of lignocellulose materials is the main limitation of its processing once the inherent costs are excessively high for the conventional pre-treatments. Furthermore, none of the currently known processes is highly selective and efficient for the satisfactory and versatile use, thus, new methodologies are still studied broadly. The ionic liquid technology on biomass processing is relatively recent and first studies were focused on the lignocellulosic biomass dissolution in different ionic liquids (ILs). The dissolution in IL drives to the structural changes in the regenerated biomass by reduction of cellulose crystallinity and lignin content contrasting to the original biomass. These findings provided ILs as tools to perform biomass pre-treatment and the advantageous use of their specific properties over the conventional pre-treatment processes. This review shows the critical outlook on the study of biomass dissolution and changes occurred in the biomass during this process as well as on the influence of several crucial parameters that govern the dissolution and further pre-treatment process. The review of currently known methods of biomass fractionation in IL and aqueous-IL mixtures is also discussed here and perspectives regarding these topics are given as well.
The uncertainty in layered models from wide-angle seismic data
Authors: Majdański M.
Published: May 2013

The analytical method of estimating the uncertainty in layered models is addressed to models obtained using a layer-stripping modeling strategy or forward modeling. It is based on a simple principle of small error propagation. There are two variants of the method: a simplified one that includes refraction and vertical reflections and one that also includes wide-angle reflections. Both give a quantitative estimation for the existing models. To allow for a simple analytical estimation, refracted waves are described using a head-wave approximation in constant velocity layers; wide angle reflection paths are also simplified. In the case of trial and error forward modeling, this method can help determine how well the used parameterization is reflected in the data and avoid over-fitting the structures. This is especially important because the forward modeling is very subjective and there is no method to assess the parameterization without generating alternative models. For inversion problems using the layer-stripping method, the analysis allows for a correct propagation of errors and will help to evaluate the effect of including a priori information with known uncertainty. As a result, the layer-stripping modeling strategy is worse than simultaneous inversion for layered models because it gives larger uncertainties.
Uncertainty of linear earthquake site amplification via Bayesian inversion of surface seismic data
Authors: Molnar Sheri , Dosso Stan E. , Cassidy John F.
Published: May 2013

We examine uncertainty in predicted linear 1D site amplification due to uncertainty in shear-wave velocity ([Formula: see text]) structure quantified from Bayesian (probabilistic) inversion of microtremor array dispersion data. Based on a sample of [Formula: see text] profiles drawn from the posterior probability density of the microtremor inversion, probability distributions are computed for common predictors of site amplification including [Formula: see text] (traveltime average [Formula: see text] to a depth [Formula: see text]) and amplification spectra based on seismic impedance variations and full transverse shear-wave effects. These methods are applicable for any site, but the resulting probabilistic site amplification analyses are specific to the two sediment sites studied here with strongly contrasting geology in high population centers of British Columbia, Canada. The site amplification probability distributions for the two sites are shown to be more informative than amplification estimated for a single best-fit [Formula: see text] profile by characterizing the uncertainty and therefore level of confidence in the predictions. The shear-wave amplification probability spectra are evaluated by comparison to empirical earthquake and microtremor spectral ratios, with generally good agreement in resonant peak frequencies and amplification levels, providing confidence that the primary influence of site-specific structure is accounted for appropriately. The wider implication here is that proper characterization of the [Formula: see text] profile uncertainty distribution from inversion of cost-effective surface wave dispersion data is beneficial in the application of said profiles to the prediction of earthquake site response and its uncertainty, as required for probabilistic seismic hazard assessment.
Changes in Thyroid Status During Perinatal Development of MCT8-Deficient Male Mice
Authors: Ferrara Alfonso Massimiliano , Liao Xiao-Hui , Gil-Ibáñez Pilar , Marcinkowski Teresa , Bernal Juan , Weiss Roy E. , Dumitrescu Alexandra M. , Refetoff Samuel
Published: May 2013

Patients with the monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) deficiency syndrome present with a severe psychomotor retardation and abnormal serum thyroid hormone (TH) levels, consisting of high T3 and low T4 and rT3. Mice deficient in Mct8 replicate the thyroid phenotype of patients with the MCT8 gene mutations. We analyzed the serum TH levels and action in the cerebral cortex and in the liver during the perinatal period of mice deficient in Mct8 to assess how the thyroid abnormalities of Mct8 deficiency develop and to study the thyroidal status of specific tissues. During perinatal life, the thyroid phenotype of Mct8-deficient mice is different from that of adult mice. They manifest hyperthyroxinemia at embryonic day 18 and postnatal day 0. This perinatal hyperthyroxinemia is accompanied by manifestations of TH excess as evidenced by a relative increase in the expression of genes positively regulated by T3 in both the cerebral cortex and liver. An increased tissue accumulation of T4 and T3 and the expression of TH alternative transporters, including Lat1, Lat2, Oatp1c1, and Oatp3a1 in the cortex and Lat2 and Oatp1b2 in the liver, suggested that Mct8 deficiency either directly interferes with tissue efflux of TH or indirectly activates other transporters to increase TH uptake. This report is the first to identify that the ontogenesis of TH abnormalities in Mct8-deficient mice manifests with TH excess in the perinatal period.