bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agency and Empowerment under Unlikely Conditions: Exploring How Wartime Displacement Can Promote Community Development
Authors: Stewart Julie
Published: March 2012

Scholars agree that violent conflict is a major obstacle to development. Wars destroy physical infrastructure, disrupt communication and transportation, encourage capital flight, and discourage foreign and domestic investment. And most important, wars inflict incalculable losses on human populations due to death or displacement. While war is undoubtedly devastating, current research largely fails to explore how wartime displacement can create institutional opportunities to exercise agency, on both an individual and a community level. This paper, based on fieldwork that spans nearly a decade in Guatemala—both during and after the end of its civil war—investigates the conditions under which the tragedy of war can be a catalyst for community development. In particular, refugee testimonies demonstrate that their forced migration contributed to positive outcomes, namely the formation of international relationships and intra-group social bonds, the acquisition of education, useful skills and material goods, and the development of political savvy. The refugee voices featured here give us a different picture of the relationship between community development and war, showing us how—quite counter-intuitively—a situation defined by force and coercion can become one that enables agency and empowerment. For Guatemalan refugees, their displacement to Mexico created an unprecedented opportunity to exercise agency. This, in turn, facilitated the development of social, political, and human capital—three foundational ingredients for successful community development.
Will the Circle Be (More) Unbroken?
Authors: Bingham Shawn
Published: March 2012

His position and career, his ambition and his very self-esteem, are based in large part upon this perspective, this one vocabulary, this one set of techniques. … They are among the humanistically impoverished, living with reference to values that exclude any arising for a respect for human reason. —C. Wright Mills (1959:106)1
A dynamic model of a micro-stepped mill with time-dependent boundary conditions
Authors: Huang Bo-Wun , Tseng Jung-Ge , Yu Pu-Ping
Published: March 2012

The trend toward higher-precision manufacturing technology requires more micro-machining, such as micro-milling. The dynamic characteristics of the micro-milling process must be studied to improve quality, produce a higher production rate, and avoid micro-mill breakage. A dynamic model of a micro-stepped mill with time-dependent cutting-boundary conditions was studied to understand the dynamic characteristic of a micro-mill in the milling process. This work presents the dynamic model and numerical analyses on vibration in micro-milling. An experiment’s result is used to validate the accuracy of the above model. A stepped pre-twisted beam was used to simulate the micro-end mill. The time-dependent boundary and cutting force were used to approximate the milling process. Consequently, a time-dependent vibration model in a micro-milling process is presented. The effects of the rotation speed, cutting depth and boundary stiffness on the dynamic characteristics were considered. Both numerical and experimental analyses indicate that the vibration amplitude was reduced as the micro-mill moved into a work piece.
A new modeling approach for the dynamics of a micro end mill in high-speed micro-cutting
Authors: Mustapha KB , Zhong ZW
Published: March 2012

This study presents a distributed parameter model for the transverse vibration analysis of a micro end mill. Owing to its geometrical nonuniformity, the micro end mill is spatially sub-structured into three distinct spinning elastic systems. With the application of the extended Hamilton’s principle to the energy expressions of the spinning elastic systems, the governing equations of each sub-structured system are obtained. The overall analytical model incorporates a number of nonclassical structural effects that range from rotary inertia, shear deformation, taper ratio, to the rate of twist. For detailed frequency analyses, systematic solution of the elastodynamics governing equations is provided with the spectral finite element method. To assess the accuracy of the presented method, the frequency values of each of the spatial sub-structure are validated through available results in the literature. In the same vein, the solution of the entire ensemble of the distributed parameter system compares well with ANSYS® simulation. The investigation reveals the spinning rate to have the most significant effect on the frequency value of the micro tool followed by the taper ratio and the complex geometry of the micro flute.
Negotiating identity transition when leaving forensic hospitals
Authors: Coffey Michael
Published: March 2012

The transition from hospital patient to community resident is something which is far from straightforward. For those with multiple labels of disability, chronicity and criminal offending behaviours this transition is particularly complicated. This article reports on a study of accounts provided by a hard-to-reach group of patients and their workers in one region of the UK. Through the use of 59 in-depth interviews with conditionally discharged persons, community mental health nurses and social workers, everyday understandings of the process of discharge and reintegration were investigated. The primary focus was on how identity was handled in the talk of discharged persons and what workers said about this. Analysis focused upon the action-oriented nature of accounts related to discharge, community return and attempts to construct viable identities in the outside world. This study found that stories did the work of loosening previous labels. Illness as mitigation was deployed as an important resource for this purpose. Deviant labels signifying mental illness and criminality presented enduring identity-threats. It was found that as they adjust to return to the community, individuals deploy particular types of identity talk to neutralize ascriptions of continuing deviance and make claims to normality. Workers for their part supported illness as mitigation but continued to orient towards risk as an enduring identity label. In their day-to-day lives the accomplishment of ‘ordinary’ identities was a continuing task of discharged persons in maintaining community return.
Reading Curriculum-Based Measures in Spanish
Authors: Keller-Margulis Milena A. , Payan Anita , Booth Carol
Published: March 2012

Substantial research exists to support the use of reading curriculum-based measures (R-CBMs) for screening and progress monitoring in schools; however, nearly all of this work has been done in English. The changing demographics of students who attend public school includes children who speak other languages. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between R-CBMs in Spanish used as a universal screening measure and performance on the state achievement measure in Spanish. Results included moderate correlations at third and fourth grade. Diagnostic accuracy results using the 25th percentile and the selection of cut scores using receiver operating characteristic curves suggest the utility of R-CBMs in Spanish for screening purposes. Practical implications and future directions for research are discussed.
Physical Activity and Colon Cancer
Authors: Boyle Terry
Published: March 2012

Despite the convincing evidence that physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer, there are some aspects of the association that remain unclear. These include the appropriate timeframe of exposure, whether the intensity of physical activity matters, and whether sedentary behavior is a distinct risk factor. This review summarized the research that has investigated these issues. In terms of timing, physical activity at any age (with the exception of physical activity performed up to and including the late teens) has been shown to be associated with a significantly reduced risk of colon cancer. Physical activity performed between 30 and 50 years of age, as well as long-term or lifetime physical activity, has been most consistently shown to reduce risk. For intensity, research to date suggests that more intense activity (particularly vigorous activity) may be associated with a greater reduction in the risk of colon cancer for males but not for females. Finally, most of the studies that have investigated the effect of sedentary behavior on the risk of colon or colorectal cancer have shown an increased risk, suggesting that sedentary behavior may be a distinct risk factor for colon cancer.
‘Out of the Shadows?’ Accounting for Special Purpose Entities in European Banking Systems
Authors: Thiemann Matthias
Published: March 2012

This article focuses on national variations in the engagement of banks in off-balance sheet securitization in three case study countries: Spain, France and Germany. It is argued that the failures in prudential regulation that underpinned the recent financial crisis are not predominantly situated at the international level. This article focuses on the way that national accounting rules determine whether the Special Purpose Entities of banks are off- or on-balance sheet. The analysis shows that national accounting norms are an important building block for prudential regulation, and these are prone to wider political influences.
A transcriptional-switch model for Slr1738-controlled gene expression in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis
Authors: Garcin Paul , Delalande Olivier , Zhang Ju-Yuan , Cassier-Chauvat Corinne , Chauvat Franck , Boulard Yves
Published: March 2012

Background

Protein-DNA interactions play a crucial role in the life of biological organisms in controlling transcription, regulation, as well as DNA recombination and repair. The deep understanding of these processes, which requires the atomic description of the interactions occurring between the proteins and their DNA partners is often limited by the absence of a 3D structure of such complexes.

Results

In this study, using a method combining sequence homology, structural analogy modeling and biochemical data, we first build the 3D structure of the complex between the poorly-characterized PerR-like regulator Slr1738 and its target DNA, which controls the defences against metal and oxidative stresses in Synechocystis. In a second step, we propose an expanded version of the Slr1738-DNA structure, which accommodates the DNA binding of Slr1738 multimers, a feature likely operating in the complex Slr1738-mediated regulation of stress responses. Finally, in agreement with experimental data we present a 3D-structure of the Slr1738-DNA complex resulting from the binding of multimers of the FUR-like regulator onto its target DNA that possesses internal repeats.

Conclusion

Using a combination of different types of data, we build and validate a relevant model of the tridimensional structure of a biologically important protein-DNA complex. Then, based on published observations, we propose more elaborated multimeric models that may be biologically important to understand molecular mechanisms.
Dietary moderately oxidized oil induces expression of fibroblast growth factor 21 in the liver of pigs
Authors: Varady Juliane , Ringseis Robert , Eder Klaus
Published: March 2012

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), whose expression is induced by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα), has been recently identified as a novel metabolic regulator which plays a crucial role in glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity and obesity. Previous studies have shown that administration of oxidized fats leads to an activation of PPARα in the liver. Therefore, the present study investigated the hypothesis that feeding of oxidized fats causes an induction of FGF21 in the liver.

Methods

Twenty four crossbred pigs were allocated to two groups of 12 pigs each and fed nutritionally adequate diets with either fresh rapeseed oil or oxidized rapeseed oil prepared by heating at a temperature of 175°C for 72 h.

Results

In pigs fed the oxidized fat mRNA abundance and protein concentrations of FGF21 in liver were significantly increased (P < 0.05), and the protein concentrations of FGF21 in plasma tended to be increased (P < 0.1) in comparison to control pigs. Moreover, pigs fed the oxidized fat had increased transcript levels of the PPARα target genes acyl-CoA oxidase, carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 and novel organic cation transporter 2 in the liver (P < 0.05), indicative of PPARα activation.

Conclusion

The present study shows for the first time that administration of an oxidized fat induces the expression of FGF21 in the liver, probably mediated by activation of PPARα. Induction of FGF21 could be involved in several effects observed in animals administered an oxidized fat.
Effect of zeolite (clinoptilolite) as feed additive in Tunisian broilers on the total flora, meat texture and the production of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid
Authors: Mallek Zouhir , Fendri Imen , Khannous Lamia , Ben Hassena Amal , Traore Al Ibrahim , Ayadi Mohamed-Ali , Gdoura Radhouane
Published: March 2012

Background

Increasing consumer demand for healthier food products has led to the development of governmental policies regarding health claims in many developed countries. In this context, contamination of poultry by food-borne pathogens is considered one of the major problems facing the progress of the poultry industry in Tunisia.

Result

Zeolite (Clinoptilolites) was added to chicken feed at concentrations 0,5% or 1% and was evaluated for its effectiveness to reduce total flora in chickens and its effects on performance of the production. The broilers were given free and continuous access to a nutritionally non-limiting diet (in meal form)that was either a basal diet or a' zeolite diet' (the basal diet supplemented with clinoptilolite at a level of 0,5% or 1%). It was found that adding zeolite in the broiler diet significantly (p < 0,05) reduced total flora levels, as compared to the control, on the chicken body. In addition, it was found that zeolite treatment had a positive effect on performance production and organoleptic parameters that were measured and mainly on the increase level of Omega 3 fatty acid.

Conclusion

This study showed the significance of using zeolite, as a feed additive for broilers, as part of a comprehensive program to control total flora at the broiler farm and to increase level of Omega 3 fatty acid on the chicken body.
MEA: an energy efficient algorithm for dense sector-based wireless sensor networks
Authors: Nickray Mohsen , Afzali-Kusha Ali , Jäntti Riku
Published: March 2012

In this article, first the energy efficiency of sector-shaped wireless sensor networks is analytically investigated. Based on this study, it is shown that the efficiency of existing data propagation algorithms which consider equal ring width is not optimal and may be improved further. Then, we introduce an energy efficient algorithm for these networks which is called minimum energy algorithm (MEA). The detailed analysis verifies that the proposed algorithm has the minimum energy consumption. Although the main emphasis of the proposed technique is on minimizing the energy, it somehow balances the energy consumption in the sector-shaped network as well. In addition, it is shown that the proposed idea can be applied to all existing energy balancing algorithms. The efficacy of the proposed algorithm is studied for networks with different sizes and node densities. The results show that, for example, for a network with a radius of 440 m and four rings when the MEA algorithm is combined with an efficient full power control algorithm (based on equal ring width), the energy conservation increases 50% more. Finally, the results show that the energy conservation of the proposed algorithm increases with the network size.
An energy efficient semi-static power control and link adaptation scheme in UMTS HSDPA
Authors: Huang Yi , Xu Jie , Qiu Ling
Published: March 2012

High speed downlink packet access (HSDPA) has been successfully applied in commercial systems and improves user experience significantly. However, it incurs substantial energy consumption. In this article, we address this issue by proposing a novel energy efficient semi-static power control and link adaptation scheme in HSDPA. Through estimating the EE under different modulation and coding schemes (MCSs) and corresponding transmit power, the proposed scheme can determine the most energy efficient MCS level and transmit power at the Node B. And then the Node B configures the optimal MCS level and transmit power. In order to decrease the signaling overhead caused by the configuration, a dual trigger mechanism is employed. After that, we extend the proposed scheme to the multiple input multiple output (MIMO) scenarios. Simulation results confirm the significant EE improvement of our proposed scheme. Finally, we give a discussion on the potential EE gain and challenge of the energy efficient mode switching between single input multiple output (SIMO) and MIMO configuration in HSDPA.
Efficacy of an absorbable polyglycolic acid patch in surgery for pneumothorax due to silicosis
Authors: Lin Xiao-Ming , Liu Yu , Chi Chuang , Lin Chao-Xi , Yang Yi
Published: March 2012

Background

We conducted a retrospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an absorbable polyglycolic acid (PGA) patch in surgery for refractory pneumothorax due to silicosis.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed of 56 patients who received thoracotomy or thoracoscopic surgery for refractory pneumothorax due to silicosis between 1995 and 2010. An absorbable PGA patch was used as a reinforcement or repair material after resection of the bulla in 24 operations and it was not used in another 32 operations. Clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups (with a PGA and without a PGA).

Results

We found that the duration of postoperative chest drainage (5.04 ± 1.12 days vs. 8.19 ± 1.60 days, p < 0.01) and hospital stay after the operation (8.33 ± 1.34 days vs. 11.56 ± 1.50 days, p < 0.01) were significantly shorter in patients who used an absorbable PGA patch in the operation compared with those who did not use a PGA patch. The incidence of initial air leakage (58.3% [14/24] vs. 93.8% [30/32], p < 0.05) and relapse rate of pneumothorax in 6 months (4% [1/24] vs. 25% [8/32], p < 0.05) were also significantly lower in patients who used an absorbable PGA patch in the operation compared with those who did not use a PGA patch. No related adverse effects of the absorbable PGA patch occurred after the operations.

Conclusions

Use of an absorbable PGA patch as a reinforcement or repair material in surgery for refractory pneumothorax due to silicosis can reduce postoperative air leakage and improve clinical outcome.
Exploring molecular backgrounds of quality traits in rice by predictive models based on high-coverage metabolomics
Authors: Redestig Henning , Kusano Miyako , Ebana Kaworu , Kobayashi Makoto , Oikawa Akira , Okazaki Yozo , Matsuda Fumio , Arita Masanori , Fujita Naoko , Saito Kazuki
Published: March 2012

Background

Increasing awareness of limitations to natural resources has set high expectations for plant science to deliver efficient crops with increased yields, improved stress tolerance, and tailored composition. Collections of representative varieties are a valuable resource for compiling broad breeding germplasms that can satisfy these diverse needs.

Results

Here we show that the untargeted high-coverage metabolomic characterization of such core collections is a powerful approach for studying the molecular backgrounds of quality traits and for constructing predictive metabolome-trait models. We profiled the metabolic composition of kernels from field-grown plants of the rice diversity research set using 4 complementary analytical platforms. We found that the metabolite profiles were correlated with both the overall population structure and fine-grained genetic diversity. Multivariate regression analysis showed that 10 of the 17 studied quality traits could be predicted from the metabolic composition independently of the population structure. Furthermore, the model of amylose ratio could be validated using external varieties grown in an independent experiment.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the utility of metabolomics for linking traits with quantitative molecular data. This opens up new opportunities for trait prediction and construction of tailored germplasms to support modern plant breeding.
A novel whole-cell lysate kinase assay identifies substrates of the p38 MAPK in differentiating myoblasts
Authors: Knight James DR , Tian Ruijun , Lee Robin EC , Wang Fangjun , Beauvais Ariane , Zou Hanfa , Megeney Lynn A , Gingras Anne-Claude , Pawson Tony , Figeys Daniel , Kothary Rashmi
Published: March 2012

Background

The p38α mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is a critical mediator of myoblast differentiation, and does so in part through the phosphorylation and regulation of several transcription factors and chromatin remodelling proteins. However, whether p38α is involved in processes other than gene regulation during myogenesis is currently unknown, and why other p38 isoforms cannot compensate for its loss is unclear.

Methods

To further characterise the involvement of p38α during myoblast differentiation, we developed and applied a simple technique for identifying relevantin vivokinase substrates and their phosphorylation sites. In addition to identifying substrates for one kinase, the technique can be usedin vitroto compare multiple kinases in the same experiment, and we made use of this to study the substrate specificities of the p38α and β isoforms.

Results

Applying the technique to p38α resulted in the identification of sevenin vivophosphorylation sites on six proteins, four of which are cytoplasmic, in lysate derived from differentiating myoblasts. Anin vitrocomparison with p38β revealed that substrate specificity does not discriminate these two isoforms, but rather that their distinguishing characteristic appears to be cellular localisation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest p38α has a novel cytoplasmic role during myogenesis and that its unique cellular localisation may be why p38β and other isoforms cannot compensate for its absence. The substrate-finding approach presented here also provides a necessary tool for studying the hundreds of protein kinases that exist and for uncovering the deeper mechanisms of phosphorylation-dependent cell signalling.
Serum level of soluble CX3CL1/fractalkine is elevated in patients with polymyositis and dermatomyositis, which is correlated with disease activity
Authors: Suzuki Fumihito , Kubota Tetsuo , Miyazaki Yasunari , Ishikawa Kinya , Ebisawa Masashi , Hirohata Shunsei , Ogura Takashi , Mizusawa Hidehiro , Imai Toshio , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Nanki Toshihiro
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM) are chronic inflammatory muscle diseases, in which chemokines are thought to contribute to inflammatory cell migration into muscle. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the expressions of CX3CL1/fractalkine and its corresponding receptor, CX3CR1, in muscle and lung with interstitial lung disease (ILD) of PM patients and DM patients, and determined the correlation between serum soluble CX3CL1 level and disease activity.

Methods

Expressions of CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 in muscle and lung tissue were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Serum CX3CL1 concentrations were measured by ELISA. For evaluation of patients' disease activity, serum creatinine kinase, manual muscle testing, and the alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure difference were used independently.

Results

CX3CL1 was expressed on infiltrated mononuclear cells and endothelial cells in muscle affected by PM and DM and in lung with ILD, whereas CX3CR1 was expressed on some CD4+ T cells, a majority of CD8+ T cells, and most macrophages in muscle, and on infiltrated mononuclear cells in the lung. Serum soluble CX3CL1 was significantly higher in PM patients and DM patients than in healthy controls. The CX3CL1 level was correlated with serum creatinine kinase and manual muscle testing score. In patients with PM and DM with ILD, serum CX3CL1 was also correlated with alveolar-arterial oxygen pressure difference. Furthermore, CX3CL1 was significantly decreased after conventional treatment.

Conclusions

The interaction between CX3CL1 and CX3CR1 might contribute to the inflammatory cell infiltration into affected muscle and lung with ILD in PM patients and DM patients. Serum CX3CL1 level could be a surrogate marker of disease activity.
Clinical significance of antibodies to Ro52/TRIM21 in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Hudson Marie , Pope Janet , Mahler Michael , Tatibouet Solène , Steele Russell , Baron Murray ,   Canadian Scleroderma Research Group (CSRG), Fritzler Marvin J
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Autoantibodies to Ro52 recently identified as TRIM21 are among the most common autoantibodies in systemic autoimmune rheumatic diseases, but their clinical association remains poorly understood. We undertook this study to determine the clinical and serologic associations of anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

Detailed clinical data and sera from 963 patients with SSc enrolled in a multicenter cohort study were collected and entered into a central database. Antibodies to Ro52/TRIM21 and other autoantibodies were detected with an addressable laser-bead immunoassay and different enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) systems. Associations between anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies and clinical and other serologic manifestations of SSc were investigated.

Results

Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies were present in 20% of SSc patients and overlapped with other main SSc-related antibodies, including anti-centromere (by immunofluorescence and centromere protein (CENP)-A and CENP-B ELISA), anti-topoisomerase I, anti-RNA polymerase III, and anti-Pm/Scl antibodies. Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies were strongly associated with interstitial lung disease (odds ratio (OR), 1.53; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11 to 2.12; P = 0.0091) and overlap syndrome (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.01 to 4.19; P = 0.0059).

Conclusions

Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies were the second most common autoantibodies in this SSc cohort. In SSc, anti-Ro52/TRIM21 antibodies may be a marker of interstitial lung disease and overlap syndrome.
Exploitation of data-information content in elastic-waveform inversions
Authors: Manukyan Edgar , Latzel Sabine , Maurer Hansruedi , Marelli Stefano , Greenhalgh Stewart A.
Published: March 2012

Elastic-waveform inversions have the potential to provide detailed subsurface images of the elastic parameters (P- and S-wave velocities and density), but acquisition of suitable data sets and their inversion are nontrivial tasks. We explore the information content offered by elastic-waveform data by means of a 2D synthetic study. Comprehensive noise-free data sets that include recordings based on multicomponent (directed) sources and multicomponent (vector) receivers that fully surround the area of interest allow all elastic parameters to be reliably recovered. Results that are almost as good can be achieved with the more commonly used crosshole configuration. If only single-source components (e.g., those oriented perpendicular to the borehole walls) are used, then there is no significant quality degradation of the tomographic images. Crosshole experiments that include pressure sources and multicomponent receivers still allow P- and S-wave velocities to be recovered, but such data sets contain virtually no information about the density. Finally, seismic data collected with omnidirectional pressure sources and pressure receivers contain information about P- and S-wave velocities, but there are pronounced trade-offs between these parameters. This is demonstrated through formal model-resolution analyses. This study concludes that seismic data recorded with pressure sources and 2C receivers offer the best compromise between acquisition efficiency and data-information content.
Numerical test of the Schoenberg-Muir theory
Authors: Carcione José M. , Picotti Stefano , Cavallini Fabio , Santos Juan E.
Published: March 2012

The Schoenberg-Muir theory states that an equivalent, homogeneous and anisotropic medium can be constructed from a layered medium composed of several thin layers, each anisotropic, under the assumption of stationarity. To test the theory we considered single transversely isotropic layers with different orientations of the symmetry axis and performed numerical simulations of wave propagation with a full-wave solver. The equivalent media have orthorhombic and monoclinic symmetries, respectively. The theory performed very well from the kinematical and dynamical points of view, even for strong anisotropy and layers described by media whose symmetry axes have different orientations.
Adjuvant Tamoxifen Reduces Subsequent Breast Cancer in Women With Estrogen Receptor–Positive Ductal Carcinoma in Situ: A Study Based on NSABP Protocol B-24
Authors: Allred D. Craig , Anderson Stewart J. , Paik Soonmyung , Wickerham D. Lawrence , Nagtegaal Iris D. , Swain Sandra M. , Mamounas Elefetherios P. , Julian Thomas B. , Geyer Charles E. , Costantino Joseph P. , Land Stephanie R. , Wolmark Norman
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The NSABP (National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project) B-24 study demonstrated significant benefit with adjuvant tamoxifen in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) after lumpectomy and radiation. Patients were enrolled without knowledge of hormone receptor status. The current study retrospectively evaluated the relationship between receptors and response to tamoxifen.

Patients and Methods

Estrogen (ER) and progesterone receptors (PgR) were evaluated in 732 patients with DCIS (41% of original study population). An experienced central laboratory determined receptor status in all patient cases with available paraffin blocks (n = 449) by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using comprehensively validated assays. Results for additional patients (n = 283) determined by various methods (primarily IHC) were available from enrolling institutions. Combined results were evaluated for benefit of tamoxifen by receptor status at 10 years and overall follow-up (median, 14.5 years).

Results

ER was positive in 76% of patients. Patients with ER-positive DCIS treated with tamoxifen (v placebo) showed significant decreases in subsequent breast cancer at 10 years (hazard ratio [HR], 0.49; P < .001) and overall follow-up (HR, 0.60; P = .003), which remained significant in multivariable analysis (overall HR, 0.64; P = .003). Results were similar, but less significant, when subsequent ipsilateral and contralateral, invasive and noninvasive, breast cancers were considered separately. No significant benefit was observed in ER-negative DCIS. PgR and either receptor were positive in 66% and 79% of patients, respectively, and in general, neither was more predictive than ER alone.

Conclusion

Patients in NSABP B-24 with ER-positive DCIS receiving adjuvant tamoxifen after standard therapy showed significant reductions in subsequent breast cancer. The use of adjuvant tamoxifen should be considered for patients with DCIS.
On Octopussies, or the Anatomy of Female Power
Authors: Cohen-Vrignaud Gerard
Published: March 2012

This essay describes how women’s genitalia came to be symbolized in the hybrid beast-woman form of the “octopussy,” tracking its origins to Victor Hugo’s novel, Les travailleurs de la mer (1866). Highlighting the centrality and sensationalism of an octopus attack on a sailor, the essay argues that Hugo’s highly gendered language helped transform the episode from a man/animal encounter into the ravishing of the male protagonist by an assertive female. This reading is supported by an examination of the terrified reactions of contemporary readers and by looking at the cultural appropriation of the octopus following the novel’s publication. The French word for octopus came to denote a sexually assertive and economically ambitious woman who traded upon her erotic charms. The emergence of this social type derived its aesthetic power from channeling contemporary anxieties tied to gender normativity, class distinction, racial purity, and other sacred boundaries. This fretful symbolization of autonomous female anatomy remains with us, the author notes, in such popular images as the octopussy of James Bond notoriety and the evil Ursula in Disney’s Little Mermaid, a figure that catalyzes fears related to the rise of capitalism: the orifice the octopussy wields so shamelessly comes to stand for the always already penetrated subjectivity of liberal economics and politics.
Reading, Writing, and Masochism: The Arts of Becoming
Authors: Musser Amber Jamilla
Published: March 2012

Through the philosopher Gilles Deleuze, reading and writing can begin to be thought of as processes of transformation. When one reads or writes, one plugs into impersonal flows and affects and becomes something else. Likewise, Deleuze theorizes masochism as an embodied practice that produces transformation on a multitude of levels. Beginning with Deleuze’s analysis of Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, from whom he developed a concept of masochism as a process of inversion and rebirth, this article reads Deleuze’s theories on reading, writing, and masochism together, arguing that Deleuze saw these three processes as kindred methods of producing impersonality and freedom. As a way of complicating Deleuze’s notion of freedom as the production of impersonal flows, this essay reads his meditations on his chronic illness as a way to flesh out his own reading and writing on masochism and becoming. Suggesting that we reflect back on Deleuze as a reader and writer in order to critically engage with our own readerly and writerly relationships to reading, writing, masochism, and identity, this article argues—against a universal notion of impersonality—that fusing reading, writing, and masochism opens ways to think about the intimacies between text and body, and the importance of the specificity of flesh.
The Role of ZIP4 in Homologous Chromosome Synapsis and Crossover Formation in Rice Meiosis
Authors: Shen Yi , Tang Ding , Wang Kejian , Wang Mo , Huang Jian , Luo Weixiong , Luo Qiong , Hong Lilan , Li Ming , Cheng Zhukuan
Published: March 2012

In budding yeast, the ZMM complex is closely associated with class I crossovers and synaptonemal complex (SC) formation. However, the relationship among the ZMM genes remains unclear in most higher eukaryotes. Here, we identify the rice ZIP4 homolog, a member of the ZMM gene, and explore its relationship with two other characterized ZMM genes, MER3 and ZEP1. Our results show that in the rice zip4 mutant the chiasma frequency is greatly reduced, although synapsis proceeds with only mild defects. Immunocytological analyses of wild type reveal that ZIP4 presents as punctuate foci and co-localizes with MER3 in prophase I meiocytes. Additionally, ZIP4 is essential for the loading of MER3 onto chromosomes, but not vice versa. Double mutant analyses show that zip4 mer3 displays a greater decrease in the mean number of chiasmata than either of the zip4 or mer3 single mutants, suggesting that ZIP4 and MER3 work cooperatively to promote CO formation but the contributions of them are not completely identical in rice. Although zep1 alone gives an increased chiasma number, both zip4 zep1 and mer3 zep1 show an even more reduced chiasma number than the zip4 or mer3 single mutants. These results imply that the normal functions of ZIP4 and MER3 may be required for the regulation of COs by ZEP1.
Ciliogenesis inCaenorhabditis elegansrequires genetic interactions between ciliary middle segment localized NPHP-2 (inversin) and transition zone-associated proteins
Authors: Warburton-Pitt Simon R. F. , Jauregui Andrew R. , Li Chunmei , Wang Juan , Leroux Michel R. , Barr Maureen M.
Published: March 2012

The cystic kidney diseases Nephronophthisis (NPHP), Meckel Gruber Syndrome (MKS), and Joubert Syndrome (JBTS) share an underlying etiology of dysfunctional cilia. Patients diagnosed with NPHP type II have mutations in the gene INVS/NPHP2, which encodes inversin, a cilia localizing protein. Here, we show that the C. elegans inversin ortholog, NPHP-2, localizes to the middle segment of sensory cilia, and is partially redundant with nphp-1 and nphp-4 (orthologs of human nephrocystin-1 and nephrocystin-4, respectively) for cilia placement within the head and tail sensilla. nphp-2 also genetically interacts with MKS ciliopathy gene orthologs, including mks-1, mks-3, mks-6, mksr-1, and mksr-2, in a sensilla-dependent manner to control cilia formation and placement. However, nphp-2 is not required for correct localization of the NPHP and MKS encoded ciliary transition zone proteins or for intraflagellar transport (IFT). We conclude that INVS/NPHP2 is conserved in C. elegans, and that nphp-2 plays an important role in C. elegans cilia acting as a modifier of the previously described NPHP and MKS pathways to control cilia formation and development.
miR-221/222 promote Schwann cell proliferation and migration by targeting LASS2 following sciatic nerve injury
Authors: Yu Bin , Zhou Songlin , Wang Yongjun , Qian Tianmei , Ding Guohui , Ding Fei , Gu Xiaosong
Published: March 2012

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. But their roles in regulating responses of Schwann cells (SCs) to injury stimuli remain unexplored. Here we report dynamic alteration of miRNA expression following rat sciatic nerve injury using microarray analysis. We harvested the proximal nerve stumps and identified 77 miRNAs that showed significant changes at four time points after nerve transection. Subsequently, we analyzed the expression pattern of miRNA, selected one significant profile, and then integrated putative miRNA targets with differentially expressed mRNA yielding 274 potential targets. The 274 targets were mainly involved in cell proliferation, cell locomotion and cellular homeostasis that were known to play important roles in modulating cell phenotype. The up-regulation of miR-221/222 was found to correlate with the injury-induced SC phenotypic modulation. Enhanced expression of miR-221/222 could promote SC proliferation and migration in vitro, while silencing its expression resulted in a reduced proliferation and migration. Further studies revealed that longevity assurance homologue 2 (LASS2) was a direct target of miR-221/222 in SCs as miR-221/222 bound directly to the 3′-untranslated region of LASS2, thus reducing both mRNA and protein levels of LASS2. Silencing of LASS2 recapitulated the effects of miR-221/222 mimics, whereas enforced knockdown of LASS2 reversed the suppressive effects of miR-221/222 inhibitors. Our findings indicate that injury promote SC proliferation and migration through the regulation of miR-221/222 by targeting LASS2, and provide new insights into the role of miRNAs in nerve regeneration.
Focal adhesion kinase modulates Cdc42 activity downstream of positive and negative axon guidance cues
Authors: Myers Jonathan P. , Robles Estuardo , Ducharme-Smith Allison , Gomez Timothy M.
Published: March 2012

There is biochemical, imaging and functional evidence that Rho GTPase signaling is a critical regulator of actin based structures such as lamellipodia and filopodia. However, while Rho GTPases are believed to serve similar functions in growth cones, the spatiotemporal dynamics of Rho GTPase signaling has not been examined in living growth cones in response to known axon guidance cues. Here we provide the first measurements of Cdc42 activity in living growth cones acutely stimulated with both growth promoting and inhibiting axon guidance cues. Interestingly, we find that both permissive and repulsive factors can work by modulating Cdc42 activity, but in opposite directions. We find that the growth promoting factors laminin and BDNF activate Cdc42 while the inhibitor Slit2 reduces Cdc42 activity in growth cones. Remarkably, we find that regulation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) activity is a common upstream modulator of Cdc42 by BDNF, laminin, and Slit. These findings suggest that rapid modulation of Cdc42 signaling through FAK by receptor activation underlies changes in growth cone motility in response to permissive and repulsive guidance cues.
Alternative and complementary therapies for the menopause
Authors: Pitkin Joan
Published: March 2012

Despite a re-evaluation of risks in recent years, hormone replacement therapy is still surrounded by controversy. Almost 30% of women in a recent survey sought a natural approach to combat climacteric symptoms. Nevertheless, a large proportion of patients felt that they wanted a good safety profile and strong evidence base for treatment. This article seeks to review the evidence supporting non-hormonal approaches to treatment. There is only conflicting evidence at best to support alpha-2 agonists, e.g. clonidine and limited evidence for dihydroepiandrosterone and natural progesterones. There is limited randomized controlled trial data for gabapentin, selective norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors (SNRIs) and selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), many of these studies being related to breast cancer patients. Of the herbal medicinal products, the largest evidence base rests with phytoestrogens. A Cochrane Database review looking at all types of phytoestrogens, e.g. red clover extracts, dietary soya and soya extracts concluded that there was no evidence to support improvement in climacteric symptoms and the meta-analysis of a 178 studies on soy products was inconsistent. Nevertheless, other studies disagree. Mammographic density is not affected by soy or phytoestrogen products and recent in vitro work shows only a weakly proliferative effect of soy isoflavone on breast cancer cells and evidence that soy isoflavone blocks the proliferative effect of estradiol on these cells. There are no studies looking at clinical outcome measures for cardiovascular disease but a number of studies looking at biochemical markers including arterial wall stiffness and apolipo protein B. Recent studies have also looked at the effects of red clover isoflavone on mood and depression, using specific depression rating scales. Finally, it is important to note that herbal medicinal products should not be used without caution. Some may produce quite marked side-effects in high doses and others can interact with pre-existing medication. A strategy for which patients are suitable for herbal medicinal products is reviewed.
Cervical lymphocoele: a simple solution for a complicated problem
Authors: Qureishi A , Silva P , Lamyman A , Cox G
Published: March 2012

Spontaneous cervical lymphocoeles are extremely rare. Their surgical management can pose many challenges with the lack of clear surgical planes potentiating risks. We present the case of a patient with an extensive right-sided cervical lymphocoele. Surgical excision would have involved extensive surgery with risk to the great vessels and lungs. We describe the successful use of talc sclerotherapy in the management of this patient, who made a rapid post-operative recovery with no evidence of recurrence on follow-up. Talc sclerotherapy may be used successfully in the management of patients with cervical lymphocoeles, obviating the need for high risk surgical procedures.
Rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction: incarcerated pylorus within an inguinal hernia
Authors: Kerschaever I , Poelmans S , Vankeirsbilck J , Vandewoude M
Published: March 2012

We present the case of a 79-year-old man admitted to the emergency room. Having anorexia and vomiting as main complaints, combined with abdominal distension and discomfort, diagnostic examination revealed a giant left inguinal hernia containing the antrum and pylorus of a dilated stomach, creating an outlet obstruction. This was complicated with free peritoneal air, gastric emphysema and air in the portal system due to ischaemia.
Duodenal duplication complicating laparoscopic cholecystectomy: a case report
Authors: Thomas MP , John SPK , Darne A , French JJ
Published: March 2012

Duplication of the gastrointestinal tract is an uncommon congenital abnormality that can occur anywhere from the tongue to the anus. The duodenum is the least common location for such an abnormality, which usually manifests as a spherical cyst-like structure that can present as mechanical bowel obstruction, biliary obstruction or an abdominal mass, among other presentations. Such abnormalities are typically detected during childhood but here we report a case of duodenal duplication discovered as a complication of laparoscopic cholecystectomy in an adult.
The numeric threshold for the disclosure of risk: outdated and inapplicable to surgical consent
Authors: Wheeler R
Published: March 2012

When describing the risks of surgery to a patient, there is a common and mistaken supposition by surgeons that there exists a numeric threshold of improbability beyond which there is no need to disclose. Where should the line be drawn?
Static monolateral external fixation for the Rolando fracture: a simple solution for a complex fracture
Authors: Marsland D , Sanghrajka AP , Goldie B
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

Rolando fractures are often difficult to manage because of their inherent instability. We describe a simple technique for the treatment of this fracture using the principle of ligamentotaxis, with a static, two-pin external fixator spanning the trapeziometacarpal joint, and present the results of a single-surgeon case series.

METHODS

Eight consecutive patients (mean age: 32.8 years) with Rolando fractures were treated using a Hoffmann II® Micro small bone external fixator using blunt ended 2.0mm half pins, inserted into the trapezium and diaphysis of the first metacarpal. Functional outcome was assessed with the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score at a mean time of 2.7 years following the fracture (range: 4 months – 6.0 years). The mean time to frame removal was 28 days.

RESULTS

There were three cases of superficial pin site infection. Follow-up x-rays at four months did not demonstrate significant joint incongruity or malunion in any case. The mean QuickDASH score was 7.95 and all patients returned to their previous levels of activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Although external fixation risks pin site infection, the results of this study support the use of spanning trapeziometacarpal external fixation for Rolando fractures as it reliably gives excellent functional outcomes.
Paediatric injuries due to home treadmill use: an emerging problem
Authors: Lohana P , Hemington-Gorse S , Thomas C , Potokar T , Wilson YT
Published: March 2012

INTRODUCTION

The use of home exercise equipment is increasing and treadmills are becoming more popular. This has brought with it an emerging but preventable problem. We present our experience, highlight the importance and promote public awareness of this type of injury. To our knowledge this has not been reported previously in the UK.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of the medical records at two regional burn units of children who sustained treadmill-related injuries between July 2003 and July 2009. Data on patient demographics, mechanism of injury, management, surgical intervention and outcome were recorded.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine children (15 boys, 14 girls) sustained treadmill-related injuries. The mean age was 3.8 years (range: 1–13 years). All injuries occurred at home and the majority of children trapped their hand under the running belt when an adult was using the machine. Most of the injuries were to the upper limb (97%) with less than 1% of the total body surface area burnt. More than two-thirds of patients had deep burns and 17 (58%) required surgical intervention. Five patients developed hypertrophic scars. All patients achieved a good functional outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Treadmills can pose a significant danger to children. These injuries are preventable. Regulatory authorities, manufacturers and parents should take steps to prevent this emerging health problem.