bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Manufacturing Practices and Performance among SMEs
Authors: Ramayah T. , Mohamad Osman , Omar Azizah , Marimuthu Malliga , Leen Jasmine Yeap Ai
Published: June 2012

Due to the rise in environmental awareness, green technologies and practices have become the conscientious imperative expected from all manufacturing industries. Consequently, environmental initiatives are becoming an essential part of the strategic planning in organizations, including the small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine the extent of implementation in green manufacturing practices among the SMEs as well as to examine the relationship between those practices and manufacturing performance. Data was collected via a survey from 544 SMEs across all types of industries located throughout Malaysia. Results of the analysis showed that there is an encouraging level of implementation in green practices among the SMEs, with the optimization of processes to reduce solid waste being the top practice. The results also revealed that green practices within the inbound and production phase of the manufacturing lifecycle significantly affected manufacturing performance but not practices within the outbound phase.
How Dependent Are Consumers on Others When Making Their Shopping Decisions?
Authors: Nakayama Makoto , Wan Yun , Sutcliffe Norma
Published: June 2012

Consumers now have a variety of shopping information sources online and offline in making purchase decisions. How has the Web changed the perceptions of consumers regarding the relative importance of different shopping information sources? Applying the attribution principle and the least effort principle, the authors hypothesize the relative importance of self-evaluation and three types of recommendations from others (word-of-mouth or WOM, expert opinion, and electronic WOM or eWOM). The data collected from 549 consumers show that the perceived importance of WOM remains equal to or even higher than that of self-evaluation for credence goods (product quality unknown even after purchase and use) and the so-called digital goods without Web access. However, the importance of self-evaluation increases when consumers have both Web access and non-Web sources of shopping information. The Web appears to make self-evaluation by consumers more important than inputs from others.
Understanding the Behavioral Determinants of M-Banking Adoption
Authors: Seyal Afzaal H. , Rahim Mahbubur , Turner Rodney
Published: June 2012

M-banking has become an important alternative to electronic banking and a popular medium in the developed world. This important mode of business has not been very widely used in the developing world. The acceptance of m-banking appears to be affected by several factors, some of which may be the personal attitudes of the users, influences of normality, and the context in which it is used. The study focuses on two hundred customers from major banks in Brunei Darussalam and explores m-banking adoption by combining the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Rogers’ Diffusion of innovations (DOI) attributes of adoption, and the decomposed theory of planned behavior with eight antecedent variables: perceived usefulness, ease of use, compatibility, credibility, image, financial cost, motive to use m-banking, and influence of reference groups leading towards customers’ attitudes that determine the m-banking adoption. The results are discussed in depth further into the study.
Barriers to Electronic Commerce Adoption Among Small Businesses in Iran
Authors: Ghobakhloo Morteza , S.H. Tang
Published: June 2012

This research examines potential barriers within the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework that affect the decision to adopt Electronic Commerce (EC) and extent of EC adoption within Small Businesses (SBs) in the context of developing countries. This research also signifies the discriminators of adoption and non-adoption of different EC applications. Through a questionnaire-based survey of 268 owners or managers of Iranian manufacturing SBs, initial and post EC adoption by these businesses were found to be hindered by some of barriers existing within technological, organizational, and environmental context including cost of EC, lack of EC compatibility, perceived risk of EC, lack of EC awareness, lack of knowledge, family intervention, lack of external support, lack of government support, and lack of business partners’ EC readiness. Similarly, this study provides discussions on determinants of adoption and non-adoption of different EC applications. Theoretical contribution and managerial implications of this research are discussed which is believed to offer valuable insights to managers, EC experts, and policy makers regarding institutionalization of EC within SBs of developing countries.
Autophagy: An Emerging Immunological Paradigm
Authors: Deretic Vojo
Published: June 2012

Autophagy is a fundamental eukaryotic process with multiple cytoplasmic homeostatic roles, recently expanded to include unique stand-alone immunological functions and interactions with nearly all parts of the immune system. In this article, we review this growing repertoire of autophagy roles in innate and adaptive immunity and inflammation. Its unique functions include cell-autonomous elimination of intracellular microbes facilitated by specific receptors. Other intersections of autophagy with immune processes encompass effects on inflammasome activation and secretion of its substrates, including IL-1β, effector and regulatory interactions with TLRs and Nod-like receptors, Ag presentation, naive T cell repertoire selection, and mature T cell development and homeostasis. Genome-wide association studies in human populations strongly implicate autophagy in chronic inflammatory disease and autoimmune disorders. Collectively, the unique features of autophagy as an immunological process and its contributions to other arms of the immune system represent a new immunological paradigm.
Phenotypic and Functional Characterization of NK Cells in Human Immune Response against the Dimorphic Fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis
Authors: Longhi Larissa N. A. , da Silva Rosiane M. , Fornazim Márcia C. , Spago Maria C. , de Oliveira Rômulo T. D. , Nowill Alexandre E. , Blotta Maria H. S. L. , Mamoni Ronei L.
Published: June 2012

Besides their role in fighting viral infection and tumor resistance, recent studies have shown that NK cells also participate in the immune response against other infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to characterize the possible role of NK cells in the immune response against Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Purified NK cells from paracoccidioidomycosis patients and healthy individuals were incubated with P. brasiliensis yeast cells or P. brasiliensis-infected monocytes, with or without the addition of recombinant IL-15. We found that NK cells from paracoccidioidomycosis patients exhibit a lower cytotoxic response compared with healthy individuals. NK cells are able directly to recognize and kill P. brasiliensis yeast cells, and this activity seems to be granule-dependent but perforin-independent, whereas the cytotoxicity against P. brasiliensis-infected monocytes is perforin-dependent. These results indicate that NK cells participate actively in the immune response against the P. brasiliensis infection either by directly destroying yeast cells or by recognizing and killing infected cells. Granulysin is the possible mediator of the cytotoxic effect, as the reduced cytotoxic activity against the yeast cells detected in patients with paracoccidioidomycosis is accompanied by a significantly lower frequency of CD56+granulysin+ cells compared with that in healthy controls. Furthermore, we show that NK cells released granulysin in cultures after being stimulated by P. brasiliensis, and this molecule is able to kill the yeast cells in a dose-dependent manner. Another important finding is that stimulated NK cells are able to produce proinflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α) supporting their immunomodulatory role in the infection.
Cross-Species Transcriptional Network Analysis Defines Shared Inflammatory Responses in Murine and Human Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Berthier Celine C. , Bethunaickan Ramalingam , Gonzalez-Rivera Tania , Nair Viji , Ramanujam Meera , Zhang Weijia , Bottinger Erwin P. , Segerer Stephan , Lindenmeyer Maja , Cohen Clemens D. , Davidson Anne , Kretzler Matthias
Published: June 2012

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a serious manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus. Therapeutic studies in mouse LN models do not always predict outcomes of human therapeutic trials, raising concerns about the human relevance of these preclinical models. In this study, we used an unbiased transcriptional network approach to define, in molecular terms, similarities and differences among three lupus models and human LN. Genome-wide gene-expression networks were generated using natural language processing and automated promoter analysis and compared across species via suboptimal graph matching. The three murine models and human LN share both common and unique features. The 20 commonly shared network nodes reflect the key pathologic processes of immune cell infiltration/activation, endothelial cell activation/injury, and tissue remodeling/fibrosis, with macrophage/dendritic cell activation as a dominant cross-species shared transcriptional pathway. The unique nodes reflect differences in numbers and types of infiltrating cells and degree of remodeling among the three mouse strains. To define mononuclear phagocyte-derived pathways in human LN, gene sets activated in isolated NZB/W renal mononuclear cells were compared with human LN kidney profiles. A tissue compartment-specific macrophage-activation pattern was seen, with NF-κB1 and PPARγ as major regulatory nodes in the tubulointerstitial and glomerular networks, respectively. Our study defines which pathologic processes in murine models of LN recapitulate the key transcriptional processes active in human LN and suggests that there are functional differences between mononuclear phagocytes infiltrating different renal microenvironments.
Increased Frequency of Suppressive Regulatory T Cells and T Cell-Mediated Antigen Loss Results in Murine Melanoma Recurrence
Authors: Jensen Shawn M. , Twitty Christopher G. , Maston Levi D. , Antony Paul A. , Lim May , Hu Hong-Ming , Petrausch Ulf , Restifo Nicholas P. , Fox Bernard A.
Published: June 2012

Therapeutic treatment of large established tumors using immunotherapy has yielded few promising results. We investigated whether adoptive transfer of tumor-specific CD8+ T cells, together with tumor-specific CD4+ T cells, would mediate regression of large established B16BL6-D5 melanomas in lymphopenic Rag1−/− recipients devoid of regulatory T cells. The combined adoptive transfer of subtherapeutic doses of both TRP1-specific TCR transgenic Rag1−/− CD4+ T cells and gp100-specific TCR transgenic Rag1−/− CD8+ T cells into lymphopenic recipients, who received vaccination, led to regression of large (100–400 mm2) melanomas. The same treatment strategy was ineffective in lymphoreplete wild-type mice. Twenty-five percent of mice (15/59) had tumors recur (15–180 d postregression). Recurrent tumors were depigmented and had decreased expression of gp100, the epitope targeted by the CD8+ T cells. Mice with recurrent melanoma had increased CD4+Foxp3+ TRP1-specific T cells compared with mice that did not show evidence of disease. Importantly, splenocytes from mice with recurrent tumor were able to suppress the in vivo therapeutic efficacy of splenocytes from tumor-free mice. These data demonstrate that large established tumors can be treated by a combination of tumor-specific CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. Additionally, recurrent tumors exhibited decreased Ag expression, which was accompanied by conversion of the therapeutic tumor-specific CD4+ T cell population to a Foxp3+CD4+ regulatory T cell population.
IL-21 Promotes Lupus-like Disease in Chronic Graft-versus-Host Disease through Both CD4 T Cell- and B Cell-Intrinsic Mechanisms
Authors: Nguyen Vinh , Luzina Irina , Rus Horea , Tegla Cosmin , Chen Ching , Rus Violeta
Published: June 2012

T cell-driven B cell hyperactivity plays an essential role in driving autoimmune disease development in systemic lupus erythematosus. IL-21 is a member of the type I cytokine family with pleiotropic activities. It regulates B cell differentiation and function, promotes T follicular helper (TFH) cell and Th17 cell differentiation, and downregulates the induction of T regulatory cells. Although IL-21 has been implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus, the relative importance of IL-21R signaling in CD4+ T cells versus B cells is not clear. To address this question, we took advantage of two induced models of lupus-like chronic graft-versus-host disease by using wild-type or IL-21R−/− mice as donors in the parent-into-F1 model and as hosts in the Bm12→B6 model. We show that IL-21R expression on donor CD4+ T cells is essential for sustaining TFH cell number and subsequent help for B cells, resulting in autoantibody production and more severe lupus-like renal disease, but it does not alter the balance of Th17 cells and regulatory T cells. In contrast, IL-21R signaling on B cells is critical for the induction and maintenance of germinal centers, plasma cell differentiation, autoantibody production, and the development of renal disease. These results demonstrate that IL-21 promotes autoimmunity in chronic graft-versus-host disease through both CD4+ T cell- and B cell-intrinsic mechanisms and suggest that IL-21 blockade may attenuate B cell hyperactivity, as well as the aberrant TFH cell pathway that contributes to lupus pathogenesis.
Fatal Cryptococcal Meningitis in a Patient With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Dizdar Oguzhan Sıtkı , Karakeçili Faruk , Coskun Belkıs Nihan , Ener Beyza , Ali Rıdvan , Mıstık Reşit
Published: June 2012

Patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are susceptible to infections, especially opportunistic infections. We have described a patient with CLL who had cryptococcal meningitis. Despite lack of previous immunosuppressive treatment history, the patient experienced serious and fatal fungal infection. Physicians should be alert for a diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis in patient with CLL who developed fever and headache.
Single agent lenalidomide activity in multiple myeloma relapse evidenced uniquely by CT/PET
Authors: Gozzetti Alessandro , Rossi Vania , Cerase Alfonso , Papini Giulia , Defina Marzia , Bocchia Monica
Published: June 2012

A71 year old female with multiple myeloma presented with back pain seven year after autologous stem cell transplant. Skeletal bone survey and magnetic resonance imaging did not show a relapse that was evidenced by CT/PET. Lenalidomide as single agent induced a complete disappearance of the lesions 6 months later at CT/PET
INCIDENCE OF COMMON FUSION TRANSCRIPTS IN ADULT AND PEDIATRIC ACUTE MYELOID LEUKEMIA (AML) CASES: EXPERIENCE OF A TERTIARY CARE RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Authors: Bhatia PRATEEK , Binota Jogeshwar , Varma Neelam , Marwaha RK , Malhotra Pankaj , Varma Subhash
Published: June 2012

Introduction: The incidence of common fusion transcripts in AML is 40-45%, but data from Indian sub-continent is limited. Aims & Objectives: The aim of the present study is to note the incidence of common fusion transcripts of AML1-ETO, PML-RARA and CBFβ-MYH11 in adult and pediatric AML cases. Materials & Methods: A total of 116 AML cases diagnosed on bone marrow, cytochemistry and Flow-cytometry over a period of 1.5 year were enrolled and bone marrow samples in EDTA were processed by Multiplex RT-PCR assay. Results: Of 116 cases, 96 (83%) were adult and 20 (17%) pediatric cases. A total of 39/116 (33.6%) cases showed positivity for fusion transcripts of which 28/96 (29.16%) were adult and 11/20 (55%) pediatric cases. Of the 28 positive adult cases, 14/96 (14.58%) were positive for AML1-ETO, 12/96 (12.5%) for PML-RARA and 2/96 (2.08%) for CBFβ-MYH11. In the 11 positive pediatric cases, 6/20 (30%) were positive for AML1-ETO, 3/20 (15%) for PML-RARA and 2/20 (10%) for CBFβ-MYH11. Discussion & Conclusion: The incidence of the common fusion transcripts in our pilot study is in accordance with that described in western studies. It is important to identify these transcripts as they provide useful prognostic information to the treating clinician.
Peri-Prosthetic Femoral Fractures Treated with the Uncemented Wagner Revision Stem
Authors: Marx Axel , Beier Alexander , Jung Laura , Lohmann Christoph H. , Halder Andreas M.
Published: June 2012

The clinical and radiological results of Vancouver type B2 and B3 peri-prosthetic fractures treated with an uncemented Wagner revision stem (3rd generation) were analysed. Two groups were identified, 15 patients had a B2 and 14 cases a B3 periprosthetic fracture. The mean follow-up was 74 months after the index operation. All fractures had united radiographically. No cases of non-union were found. There was only one case of aseptic loosening. The clinical scores presented encouraging results for both groups. The uncemented distal fixation stem was an effective solution in the treatment of type B2 and B3 periprosthetic femur fractures at mid-term follow up.
Free Vascularised Fibular Graft for Neglected Femoral Neck Fractures in Young Adults
Authors: Xie Xuetao , Zhang Changqing , Jin Dongxu , Chen Shengbao , Gao Youshui
Published: June 2012

Neglected femoral neck fractures in young adults pose a great challenge to orthopedic surgeons because of the high risks of nonunion and osteonecrosis. We attempted to determine whether free vascularised fibular grafting through an anterior approach could enhance bone union, improve hip function and reduce complications in the treatment of such fractures.

Thirteen patients with neglected femoral neck fractures were treated with a free vascularised fibular graft through an anterior approach between 2004 and 2008. The mean age was 30.9 years (range, 17–47 years). The average delay between injury and operation was 6.7 months (range, 1.5–22 months). All 13 cases had ununited fractures but without osteonecrosis of the femoral head on plain radiographs before coming under our care.

The average follow-up was 51.2 months (range, 36–75 months). All patients had fracture union within an average of 4.8 months (range, 3–9 months). Postoperatively, 9 patients had coxa vara of 10 to 20 degrees and leg discrepancy between 0.5 to 1.5 cm. One patient had coxa vara deformity of 25 degrees and 2-cm leg discrepancy. No patients developed osteonecrosis of the femoral head or donor-site morbidity. The mean Harris hip score improved from 55.5 points preoperatively to 84.8 points postoperatively (p<0.01).

This procedure may be useful and safe in the treatment of neglected femoral neck fractures in young adults, but further studies with a large number of patients are needed.
Femoroacetabular Impingement and Low Energy Posterior Hip Dislocation: A Case Report
Authors: Lax-Pérez Raquel , Marín-Peña Oliver , García-Gálvez Alberto , Ferrero-Manzanal Francisco , Rincón-Recarey Francisco Javier , Salinas-Gilabert José
Published: June 2012

We report a case of a 28-year-old male who sustained an indirect injury of his left hip while playing soccer, which resulted in a posterior fracture-dislocation. Radiological examination showed signs of combined femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). We discuss the role of FAI as a risk factor for hip dislocation in low energy sport injuries.
Vascular Access Outcomes in HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Mistry Hiren , Lifford Rhiannon , Stephenson Matthew A. , Valenti Domenico
Published: June 2012

Purpose

There is a limited source of information about vascular access outcomes in HIV-positive patients in the literature. Previous studies have shown autogenous arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) to have similar cumulative survival rates in HIV-positive and negative patients but functional patency has not been assessed. The primary aim of this study was to investigate functional patency of AVFs in HIV-positive patients.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study identifying 17 HIV-positive patients with AVFs under the care of renal services at Kings College Hospital, London was undertaken. Seventeen HIV-negative controls were matched for age, sex, ethnicity, and co-morbidities. Comparisons were made for pre-operative vein diameter, primary and functional patencies, and postoperative complications.

Results

No statistically significant difference was seen for functional patency between AVFs in the HIV-positive and control groups (P=.078). Complications were experienced by five HIV-positive patients (29.4%) and nine of the control group (52.9%). These included aneurysms and pseudoaneurysms for both groups. The difference in pre-operative vein diameter was not significant (P=.102), although only five of the HIV-positive patients had pre-operative vein diameters >=2.5 mm (45.5%) compared to twelve of the controls (75%).

Conclusions

This study reveals that there is no statistically significant difference between the functional patency of autogenous AVFs in HIV-positive patients compared to HIV-negative controls. With less than half of the HIV-positive patients having pre-operative vein diameters >=2.5 mm, this suggests that it is still worth creating AVFs in patients with sub-optimal veins considering the known poorer patency with non-autogenous fistulae.
Impacts of Antibiotic and Anti-Inflammatory Therapy on Serum Prostate Specific Antigen in Asymptomatic Men: Our Experience
Authors: Del Rosso Alessandro , Saldutto Pietro , Di Pierro Ezio Domenico , Masciovecchio Stefano , Galatioto Giuseppe Paradiso , Vicentini Carlo
Published: June 2012

Introduction

The management of “grey zone” elevated Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is uncertain. After prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostatitis may induce PSA increase. PSA reduction, after medical therapy, might identify those patients in whom biopsy can be avoided. The aim of this study was to determine if antibiotic and anti-inflammatory allow avoiding prostate biopsies in patients showing PSA decrease or normalization after medical therapy.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2009 and May 2011, a total of 31 men with total PSA between 4 and 10 ng/ml were enrolled in this study. Patients with pathological digital rectal examination and clinical symptoms of prostatitis or lower urinary tract infection were excluded from the study. Total PSA, free PSA and free/total PSA were evaluated for all of them. Patients received 1000 mg ciprofloxacin daily for 15 days in combination with 100 mg ketoprofen administered rectally. PSA determinations were repeated two weeks after treatment. SPSS for Windows (version 10.0.7) computer package was used for statistical analysis of the data; a p value <0.05 was considered as level of statistical significance.

Results

19 patients (61%) showed a reduction of PSA level after therapy. Initial total PSA and free-PSA levels were 7.41 and 1.24 ng/ml, respectively. After medical therapy total and free PSA decreased to 5.72 and 1.19 ng/ml. Free/total PSA changed from 15.2% to 14.3%. PSA reached a normal range value in 5 patients (16%), while in 26 patients it was persistently >4 ng/ml, it decreased in 14 patients (45%), and increased in 12 (39%). Patients with PSA up to 4 ng/ml reported a prostatic cancer in 28.5% and 41.6% of cases if PSA was respectively decreased or increased from the initial value.

Conclusions

A combination of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory therapy seems to be a useful way to avoid unnecessary biopsies in patients with PSA range from 4 to 10 ng/ml.
What to do if Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation (PTNS) Works? A Pilot Study on Home-Based Transcutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Maurelli Valentina , Petta Filomena , Carsillo Gianni , Miano Roberto , Lamorte Fiorenza , Perugia Claudio , Agrò Enrico Finazzi
Published: June 2012

Introduction

Aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of a home-based transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) protocol in patients responding to percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS).

Materials and methods

16 overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) patients, responding to PTNS, were included. Patients performed a flexible home protocol of TTNS. Satisfied patients were considered “subjective responders”; patients not showing a ≥10% increase of urgency/urgency incontinence episodes/day were considered “objective responders”.

Results

14/16 patients were followed up for a mean of 19.7 months. All patients were considered subjective responders; 13 were considered objective responders. The mean number of stimulations/week was 1.6 (1–3).

Conclusions

After this pilot study, it is possible to conclude that home-based TTNS is feasible. Nevertheless, further randomized trials are needed before drawing any conclusions.
Micropapillary Urothelial Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder: Report of One Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fugini Andrea Vismara , Rosini Roberto , Kalantary Rad Farshid , Teppa Alessandro , Pettenò Alberto , Tonini Gerolamo , Tosana Michelangelo
Published: June 2012

In 1994 Amin et al. described an uncommon variant of urothelial carcinoma: the micropapillary carcinoma (MPC). The MPC of the urinary bladder is rare, but has an aggressive clinical course. The optimal treatment strategy for this tumor appears to be early radical cystectomy. We report a case of MPC of the urinary bladder and review the literature.
Labored Relations: Corporate Citizenship, Labor Unions, and Freedom of Association
Authors: Dawkins Cedric E.
Published: June 2012

Globalization has brought increased attention to the notion that labor rights such asfreedom of association—the right of workers to organize a union—are fundamental human rights. However, the vigorous opposition to freedom of association by US firms is largely ignored in the business ethics literature and exacerbated by compensatory corporate citizenship rating mechanisms that tend to mask labor rights deficiencies. I argue that because freedom of association is a hypernorm, instrumental to fully realizing basic human rights, labor rights and human rights are largely inseparable. Thus, respect for labor rights is a non-substitutable requisite of corporate citizenship. I conclude by providing examples of corporate labor relations strategies that respect freedom of association and business firms that are leading the way.
Workplace Civility: A Confucian Approach
Authors: Kim Tae Wan , Strudler Alan
Published: June 2012

We argue that Confucianism makes a fundamental contribution to understanding why civility is necessary for a morally decent workplace. We begin by reviewing some limits that traditional moral theories face in analyzing issues of civility. We then seek to establish a Confucian alternative. We develop the Confucian idea that even in business, humans may be sacred when they observe rituals culturally determined to express particular ceremonial significance. We conclude that managers and workers should understand that there is a broad range of morally important rituals in organizational life and that managers should preserve and develop the intelligibility and integrity of many of these rituals.
“All Kinds of Dirty”: Supermarkets, Markets, and Shifting Cultures of Clean
Authors: Moyer Alexia
Published: June 2012

The makers of CLR (the Calcium, Lime, Rust, cleaning product) assure us that there are “all kinds of dirty, one kind of clean.” One can feel confident that soap scum buildup and toilet bowl stains in the bathroom as well as the grease splatters and dried-on tomato sauce in the kitchen can be wiped away with the help of one yellow bottle. The pithy slogan asks us to be preoccupied by dirty in all its forms, without taking into account the many discourses of clean. This article concerns itself with the cult of “cleanness” and the ways in which it has taken hold of the imaginary when it comes to our bodies, the things we put into them, and the spaces we make use of and/or inhabit. I make particular reference here to the spaces in which we buy food, exploring various implications of the staging process enacted in the processing and display of foodstuffs. I set out to examine the ways in which clean is implemented and interpreted by and within two major sites of food shopping: the supermarket and the market.
My Vision of Terroir
Authors: Kehler Mateo
Published: June 2012

This short essay explores the possibility of nurturing a notion of terroir in Vermont. In the classical sense terroir is the expression of an economy rooted in a landscape (not imposed on a landscape). But how does a dynamic relationship between economy and landscape get created when the political economy of food and agriculture in the United States has consistently moved away from any connection to place? The possibilities of having independent Yankee farmers move towards terroir is explored.
Tasting the Bedrock
Authors: Elder John
Published: June 2012

This article begins with a personal narrative of the author’s involvement in sugaring before moving to an account of collaboration with local experts in maple production and testing, "sensory analysis," and geology to explore the correlation between the taste of syrup from particular sugarbushes and such factors as the bedrock on those sites. This high-spirited and stimulating investigation was inspired in part by collaborator Amy Trubek’s application of the concept of terroir to a wide range of foods beyond wine. Although it at one point alarmed Vermont's maple industry, it has ultimately led to a productive dialogue, to which authorities from the state's Agency of Agriculture as well as maple researchers and producers in Quebec have all contributed. Grounded in a small-scale operation in Starksboro, Vermont, the article ultimately points toward both innovations and marketing opportunities within a much wider circle.
Study of Drivers’ Behaviour at a Passive Railway Crossing
Authors: Kasalica Sandra , Vukadinović Radisav , Lučanin Vojkan
Published: June 2012

Problem: The number of killed and injured persons in incidents at railway level crossings is generally increasing on the Serbian Railways, particularly at passive crossings. In this paper we researched the direct behaviour of road traffic participants at a conventional railway passive crossing. Method: Direct observational study of drivers’ behaviour at a level crossing. Results: Sixty-one road vehicle drivers were observed in the moments of train approach. The probability of crossing varies depending on the train distance and the time the driver has to cross the crossing. The drivers who have limited visibility cannot estimate the speed of the approaching train well and make more risky decisions. Conclusion: This study shows that the number of “risky crossings” is worrying as the result of such crossings is a large number of accidents with fatal consequences at the passive crossings in Serbia.
Empty Container Logistics
Authors: Karmelić Jakov , Dundović Čedomir , Kolanović Ines
Published: June 2012

Within the whole world container traffic, the largest share of containers is in the status of repositioning. Container repositioning results from the need for harmonization between the point of empty container accumulation and the point of demand, and waiting time for the availability of the first next transport of cargo. This status of containers on the container market is the consequence of imbalances in the worldwide trade distribution on most important shipping routes. The need for fast and effective reallocation of empty containers causes high costs and often represents an obstacle affecting the efficiency of port container terminals and inland carriers.In accordance with the above issue, this paper is mainly focused on the analysis of the data concerning global container capacities and the roots of container equipment imbalances, with the aim of determining the importance of empty container management and the need for empty container micro-logistic planning at the spread port area.
Possibility of Microsimulation Models Calibration – Case Study in the City of Split
Authors: Cvitanić Dražen , Breški Deana , Lovrić Ivan
Published: June 2012

The paper presents a comparison of the possibility and complexity of the calibration process of two microsimulation models. The first model CORSIM is simple for use while the second named S-Paramics is more complex software. For research purposes, a model of street network with defined geometry (number, width and purpose of lanes) has been made. The volume and distribution of traffic as well as the data about traffic signals were input in the models. Numerous simulations were performed, first with the default parameters of models, and then with the calibrated parameters. Both programs have resulted in very good prediction of the intersection capacity and discharge volumes. However, for the calibration of speed more time and effort have been made in S-Paramics in which the average speed may be higher than the defined free-flow speed. This can present a problem in determining the level of service and comparing the S-Paramics results with other simulation models and analytical method results. On the other hand S-Paramics has greater capabilities than CORSIM (roundabouts modelling, dynamic traffic assignment, opportunity to interact with traffic signals...). Thus, for each specific task, one should carefully choose an appropriate program which would result in necessary and reliable output data with minimum effort and time consumed.
Research of the Influences of Input Parameters on the Result of Vehicles Collision Simulation
Authors: Bogdanović Vuk , Milutinović Nenad , Kostić Svetozar , Ruškić Nenad
Published: June 2012

Vehicle collisions are complex processes which are determined by a large number of different parameters. The development of computer programs for simulation has made the collision analysis and reconstruction procedure easier, as well as the possibility to realise the influences of different parameters on collision processes, which was not possible while using classical methods. The quality of results of vehicle collision simulation and reconstruction is expressed by an error which is determined on the basis of the difference between vehicles stopping positions, which was obtained by the simulation of established vehicles stopping positions in real collisions. Being acquainted with the influence of collision parameters on the simulation error enables the development of more reliable models for automatic optimisation of the collision process and reduction of the number of iterations in the procedure of a collision reconstruction. Within the scope of this paper, the analysis and classification of different collision parameters have been carried out. It has been done by the degree of the influence on the error in the simulation process in the software package Virtual CRASH. Varying twenty different collision parameters on the sample of seven crash tests, their influence on the distance, trajectory and angular error has been analysed, and ten parameters with the highest level of influence (centre of gravity position from front axle of vehicle 1, restitution coefficient, collision place in longitudinal direction, collision place in transverse direction, centre of gravity height-vehicle2, centre of gravity height-vehicle1, collision angle, contact plane angle, slowing down the vehicle and vehicle movement direction) have been distinguished.
Capacity and Level of Service on the Zagreb Bypass
Authors: Štefančić Gordana , Marijan Dalibor , Kljajić Slobodan
Published: June 2012

As the capital of the Republic of Croatia, Zagreb is certainly the biggest motorway interchange, as well as the origin and destination of a large number of trips. Apart from obvious advantages, road traffic with its sudden development has caused certain undesired consequences as well, out of which the focus is on the traffic network congestion, including reduction of safety level, mainly because of the greater number of traffic accidents most pronounced in the summer months. The morning and afternoon hours see the highest traffic peaks at junctions, first of all at Buzin where long queues of vehicles are formed. In order to solve the problem the capacity and level of service need to be analysed and the attention should be drawn to the possible requirement of implementing measures in order to increase the capacity and the level of service in the corridor of the Zagreb Bypass.
Nanostructure‐Initiator Mass Spectrometry (NIMS) for the Analysis of Enzyme Activities
Authors: Reindl Wolfgang , Deng Kai , Cheng Xiaoliang , Singh Anup K. , Simmons Blake A. , Adams Paul D. , Northen Trent R.
Published: June 2012

Enzymes are essential to innumerable vital processes in all fields of life. Additionally, enzymatic activities are utilized in a multitude of biological, medical, and technical applications. Using cellulases and other glycoside hydrolases for the conversion of lignocellulosic biomass into biofuel has become an active area of research for applied enzymology. Development of high‐throughput, high‐specificity enzyme assays for glycoside hydrolases is critical to identify, characterize, and optimize such activities for efficient biomass degradation. Here, we present a detailed protocol describing our recently reported nanostructure‐initiator mass spectrometry (NIMS)‐based technique for the rapid analysis of glycoside hydrolase activities. NIMS enzyme activity (Nimzyme) assays can be used to characterize already known, or identify novel glycoside hydrolases. Importantly, several enzymatic activities can be tested in parallel in a multiplexed arrangement and under a broad range of assay conditions. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:123‐142 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
In Situ Hybridization Assay‐Based Small‐Molecule Screening in Zebrafish
Authors: Jing Lili , Durand Ellen M. , Ezzio Catherine , Pagliuca Stephanie M. , Zon Leonard I.
Published: June 2012

In vitro biochemical and cell‐based small‐molecule screens have been widely used to identify compounds that target specific signaling pathways, but the identified compounds frequently fail at the animal testing stage, largely due to the in vivo absorption, metabolism, and toxicity properties of the chemicals. Zebrafish has recently emerged as a vertebrate whole‐organism model for small‐molecule screening. The in vivo bioactivity and specificity of compounds are examined from the very beginning of zebrafish screens. In addition, zebrafish is suitable for large‐scale chemical screens, similar to many cellular assays. This protocol describes an approach for in situ hybridization (ISH)‐based chemical screening in zebrafish, which, in principle, can be used to screen any gene product. The described protocol has been used to identify small molecules affecting specific molecular pathways and biological processes. It can also be adapted to zebrafish screens with different readouts. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 4:143‐160 © 2012 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Heritage Languages and Language Policy
Authors: King Kendall A. , Ennser‐Kananen Johanna
Published: June 2012

The termheritage language(HL) was first used in the Canadian context to refer to any “language other than English and French,” and intended to reference the languages spoken by indigenous (First Nation) people or by immigrants (Cummins, 1991, pp. 601–2). Clyne (1991) modified the definition for the Australian context to include any language other than English (LOTE). US researchers and policy‐makers adopted this version in subsequent years.
Politeness
Authors: A. Locher Miriam
Published: June 2012

Language is not just a means to pass factual content from one person to another, it is also a tool to shape relationships and thus to negotiate interpersonal meaning. When we use language, we therefore also reveal something about ourselves and our relationships with others.
Warschauer,Mark
Authors: Sauro Shannon
Published: June 2012

Mark Warschauer (born 1954) is a US scholar and researcher, known for his work on technology in language and literacy education. His research explores the pedagogical applications of technology for second language (L2) learning, the social and educational dimensions and implications of digital literacy, and the use of technology to foster learning and empowerment. He has conducted research in the United States in elementary and secondary schools, and among adult learners in technology‐enhanced learning contexts in several countries, including Egypt, the United States, and the Czech Republic.
Effects of Fiber Orientation and Moisture on the Crack Growth in Short Glass Fiber Reinforced Polyamide
Authors: Günzel Stephan , Hickmann Stefan , Wittemeyer Christian , Trappe Volker
Published: June 2012

Short glass fiber reinforced polyamides are increasingly used in automotive applications. Concepts and models are needed, which enable the prediction of the structural durability. The fiber orientation and the content of moisture have a major influence on the fracture mechanical properties and on the damage mechanisms. The complex crack growth behavior was investigated and described in an empirical model.
Strain‐Induced Development of Very Fine Ferrite‐Cementite Structures in Eutectoid Steels
Authors: Caruso Matteo , Godet Stéphane
Published: June 2012

The development of duplex microstructures consisting of very fine ferrite grains and spheroidized cementite particles during concurrent hot deformation has been investigated by hot torsion in a eutectoid steel. It is shown that the hot deformation of the undercooled austenite at temperatures close to Ar1 induces and accelerates significantly the γ‐to‐pearlite transformation. Further deformation of the transforming pearlite does not lead only to the instantaneous spheroidization of the cementite lamellae but also refines the ferrite orientations units from 15 to 3 µm. Microstructures consisting of very fine ferrite grains (3 µm) and submicron cementite particles are produced at strain levels larger than ε = 1.5. The initial grains undergo progressive fragmentation by the generation of low angle boundaries (LABs) by dynamic recovery that progressively transform into high angle boundaries (HABs). The progressive increase of LABs misorientation is attributed to the presence of cementite particles and is referred to as continuous dynamic recrystallization (cDRX). Fine prior austenite grain size and moderate strain rates are found to promote the occurrence of cDRX. The resulting torsion textures consist of a strong 〈111〉 fiber dominated by the D {112} 〈111〉 component. During the subsequent annealing step, cementite particles coarsen preferentially at the triple junctions whereas the very fine ferrite grain are stable due to the strong pinning effect exerted by the cementite particles.
Determination of Minimum Machining Depth After Heat Treatment of ASTM Grade 2 Titanium Alloy
Authors: Dobeson Richard G. , McDonald Stuart D. , Dargusch Matthew S.
Published: June 2012

This paper reports on the development of a practical tool for determining minimum machining depths required after heat treatment of ASTM Grade 2 titanium alloys. Mechanical properties are adversely affected by the brittle alpha‐case that develops when titanium and its alloys are exposed to oxygen at elevated temperatures. This layer is normally removed by machining prior to putting the component into service. The exact depth of material that is required to be removed is dependent on the combined time and temperature of any prior heat treatment. This paper presents a study of oxygen diffusion in ASTM Grade 2 titanium alloy that was performed to quantify the rate of alpha‐case formation. A generalized method of predicting the depth of alpha‐case is discussed and a nomogram has been developed and presented as a tool for determining the minimum amount of material that needs to be removed.
Synthesis of Monodisperse Silver Nanoparticles by Sonolysis of Silver Carboxylates
Authors: Veith Michael , Moh Karsten , Cavelius Christian
Published: June 2012

Monodisperse, crystalline silver nanoparticles are synthesized by sonolytically assisted decomposition of silver oxalate and oleate precursors in dibenzylether. Oleic acid and oleylamine are used as capping agents. The diameters of the obtained particles vary from 6 to 10 nm depending on the sonification time and the precursor material. The particles are stable in non‐polar media. A 2D and 3D assembly of the as‐prepared nanoparticles is observed. Particle sizes and dispersities are characterized by transmission electron microscopy and image analysis. The decomposition characteristics of the different precursor compounds are investigated using UV–Vis spectroscopy and thermogravimetry.
Rituximab for remission induction and maintenance in refractory granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's): Ten‐year experience at a single center
Authors: Cartin‐Ceba Rodrigo , Golbin Jason M. , Keogh Karina A. , Peikert Tobias , Sánchez‐Menéndez Marta , Ytterberg Steven R. , Fervenza Fernando C. , Specks Ulrich
Published: June 2012

Objective

This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of repeated and prolonged B cell depletion with rituximab (RTX) for the maintenance of long‐term remission in patients with chronic relapsing granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener's) (GPA).

Methods

We conducted a single‐center observational study of all patients with chronic relapsing GPA treated with at least 2 courses of RTX between January 1, 2000 and May 31, 2010. Participants in the Rituximab in ANCA‐Associated Vasculitis (RAVE) trial were excluded from this analysis. Data were abstracted from electronic medical records.

Results

Fifty‐three patients with refractory GPA (median age 46 years [interquartile range (IQR) 30–61 years]; 53% women) received at least 2 courses of RTX to treat GPA relapses or to maintain remission. All but 1 patient had antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) against proteinase 3 (PR3). These patients received a median of 4 courses of RTX (IQR 3–5); all had depletion of B cells, and the median time to return of B cells was 8.5 months (IQR 6–11 months). All observed relapses occurred after reconstitution of B cells and were accompanied or preceded by an increase in ANCA levels, except for the 1 ANCA‐negative patient. Infusion‐related adverse events occurred in 16 patients. During the period of B cell depletion, 30 infections requiring antimicrobial therapy were recorded.

Conclusion

RTX appeared to be effective and safe for the induction and maintenance of remission in patients with chronic relapsing GPA. Repeated depletion of B lymphocytes seems to be associated with a low risk of infections. Preemptive re‐treatment decisions can be individualized based on serial B lymphocyte and PR3 ANCA monitoring. The use of RTX for the maintenance of long‐term remission merits further formal investigation.