bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Paying Taxes Improve the Quality of Governance? Cross‐Country Evidence
Authors: Altunbas Yener , Thornton John
Published: September 2011

A growing economics literature argues that taxation can strengthen the quality of governance and public sector institutions by making governments more responsive and accountable to their citizens, building capacity, and improving public policy. In this paper, we provide some empirical support for this view. Using data on a cross‐section of developed and developing countries, we find that taxation improves the quality of governance and that those taxes that are borne most directly by citizens are the most important in improving governance. Our results are robust to different estimation methodologies, to variations in the country sample, and to controlling for the influence of variables that have been identified as affecting the quality of governance. The results suggest that policies aimed at mobilizing tax revenues may be justified based on the greater accountability of government that may result.
A Human Basis for Sustainable Development: How Psychosocial Change at the Individual Level Promotes Development
Authors: Pick Susan , Beers Kimberly , Grossman‐Crist Shoshana
Published: September 2011

Sociocultural and economic limitations often deprive individuals of the freedoms to make decisions regarding their lives, hindering development. This article presents the Framework for Enabling Empowerment (FrEE), a model that emphasizes the importance of psychosocial factors and the individual in accessing freedoms and promoting health, productivity, and sustainable human development. FrEE is theoretically based in Amartya Sen's Capability Approach. Explaining the synergy between the context, the person, and psychosocial factors, FrEE provides a strategy to achieve the expansion of individual choice and freedoms. The authors present FrEE and its relationship to Sen's theories and explain how FrEE makes the Capability Approach operative. Finally the authors draw on empirical program evaluations in Mexico to discuss FrEE's potential impact on the field of human development.
Intentional Faking of the Single Category Implicit Association Test and the Implicit Association Test
Authors: Stieger Stefan , Göritz Anja S. , Hergovich Andreas , Voracek Martin
Published: September 2011

The Implicit Association Test (IAT) provides a relative measure of implicit association strengths between target and attribute categories. In contrast, the Single Category Implicit Association Test (SC–IAT) measures association strength with a single attribute category. This can be advantageous if a complementary category—as used in the IAT—cannot be composed or is undesired. If the SC–IAT is to be a meaningful supplement to the IAT, it should meet the same requirements. In an online experiment with a large and heterogeneous sample, the fakability of both implicit measures was investigated when measuring anxiety. Both measures were fakable through specific instruction (e.g., “Slow down your reactions”) but unfakable through nonspecific faking instruction even though nonspecific instruction was given immediately before the critical blocks (e.g., “Alter your reaction times”). When comparing the methodological quality of both implicit measures, the SC–IAT had lower internal consistency than the IAT. Moreover, with specific faking instructions, the SC–IAT was possible to fake to a larger extent than the IAT.
Some Psychometric Properties of the Spanish Version of the Clarity of Auditory Imagery Scale
Authors: Campos Alfredo , Pérez-Fabello María José
Published: September 2011

Few tests have been designed to measure auditory imagery. This study assessed the factor structure and internal consistency of the Spanish version of the Clarity of Auditory Imagery Scale (CAIS). Participants were 234 undergraduate students ( M age = 19.6 yr.). Internal consistency reliability estimated by Cronbach's alpha was .82. In a principal components analysis followed by varimax orthogonal rotation, five factors were identified. Scores correlated moderately and positively with ratings on the Vividness of Visual Imagery Questionnaire–2 and negatively on the auditory scale of Betts' Questionnaire Upon Mental Imagery, but weakly and negatively with scores on the Measure of the Ability to Form Spatial Mental Imagery.
Psychometric Properties and Factor Structure of the Greek Version of the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire (CAQ)
Authors: Dragioti Elena , Vitoratou Silia , Kaltsouda Anna , Tsartsalis Dimitris , Gouva Mary
Published: September 2011

The present study assesses the psychometric properties and factor structure of the Greek version of the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire (CAQ). The questionnaire was administered to 598 healthy individuals from 15 different regions of Greece with a measure of socioeconomic characteristics and the Symptom Checklist-90–Revised (SCL-90–R). The sample was split into two random halves, and exploratory factor analysis indicated a three-factor solution. This solution was tested using a confirmatory factor analysis on the second half of the sample. In terms of latent dimensions, the Greek version retains the three-factor structure as proposed by the initial authors. However, adequate fit was achieved only after omitting eight items. The shorter (10-item) version was submitted to further analysis. The shorter version provided satisfactory internal reliability and evidence indicating the validity of the scale with respect to SCL-90–R subscales. The stability of the questionnaire was verified by a high test-retest reliability over a 3-mo. period ( r = .86). Sex and age differences were assessed. The 10-item version appears to be a practical, brief tool for clinical use.
Could autologous cord blood stem cell transplantation treat cerebral palsy?
Authors: Chen Aiqing , Clowry Gavin
Published: September 2011

The young human brain is highly plastic and thus early brain lesions can lead to aberrant development of connectivity and mapping of functions. This is why initially in cerebral palsy only subtle changes in spontaneous movements are seen after the time of lesion, followed by a progressive evolution of a movement disorder over many months and years. Thus we propose that interventions to treat cerebral palsy should be initiated as soon as possible in order to restore the nervous system to the correct developmental trajectory. One such treatment might be autologous stem cell transplantation either intracerebrally or intravenously. All babies come with an accessible supply of stem cells, the umbilical cord, which can supply cells that could theoretically replace missing neural cell types, or act indirectly by supplying trophic support or modulating inflammatory responses to hypoxia/ischaemia. However, for such radical treatment to be proposed, it is necessary to be able to detect and accurately predict the outcomes of brain injury from a very early age. This article reviews our current understanding of perinatal injuries that lead to cerebral palsy, how well modern imaging might predict outcomes, what stem cells are yielded from umbilical cord blood and experimental models of brain repair using stem cells.
Adaptive modeling of reliability properties for control and supervision purposes
Authors: Dettmann Kai-Uwe , Söffker Dirk
Published: September 2011

Adaptive modeling of reliability properties for control and supervision purposes

Modeling of reliability characteristics typically assumes that components and systems fail if a certain individual damage level is exceeded. Every (mechanical) system damage increases irreversibly due to employed loading and (mechanical) stress, respectively. The main issue of damage estimation is adequate determination of the actual state-of-damage. Several mathematical modeling approaches are known in the literature, focusing on the task of how loading effects damage progression (e.g., WéoUhler, 1870) for wear processes. Those models are only valid for specific loading conditions,a prioriassumptions, set points, etc. This contribution proposes a general model, covering adequately the deterioration of a set of comparable systems under comparable loading. The main goal of this contribution is to derive the loading-damage connection directly from observation without assuming any damage models at the outset. Moreover, the connection is not investigated in detail (e.g., to examine the changes in material, etc.) but only approximated with a probabilistic approach. The idea is subdivided into two phases: A problem-specific relation between loading applied (to a structure, which contributes to the stress) and failure is derived from simulation, where a probabilistic approach only assumes a distribution function. Subsequently, an adequate general model is set up to describe deterioration progression. The scheme will be shown through simulation-based results and can be used for estimation of the remaining useful life and predictive maintenance/control.
Analysis of correlation based dimension reduction methods
Authors: Shin Yong , Park Cheong
Published: September 2011

Analysis of correlation based dimension reduction methods

Dimension reduction is an important topic in data mining and machine learning. Especially dimension reduction combined with feature fusion is an effective preprocessing step when the data are described by multiple feature sets. Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA) and Discriminative Canonical Correlation Analysis (DCCA) are feature fusion methods based on correlation. However, they are different in that DCCA is a supervised method utilizing class label information, while CCA is an unsupervised method. It has been shown that the classification performance of DCCA is superior to that of CCA due to the discriminative power using class label information. On the other hand, Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) is a supervised dimension reduction method and it is known as a special case of CCA. In this paper, we analyze the relationship between DCCA and LDA, showing that the projective directions by DCCA are equal to the ones obtained from LDA with respect to an orthogonal transformation. Using the relation with LDA, we propose a new method that can enhance the performance of DCCA. The experimental results show that the proposed method exhibits better classification performance than the original DCCA.
Analysis of AQM queues with queue size based packet dropping
Authors: Chydziñski Andrzej , Chróst Łukasz
Published: September 2011

Analysis of AQM queues with queue size based packet dropping

Queueing systems in which an arriving job is blocked and lost with a probability that depends on the queue size are studied. The study is motivated by the popularity of Active Queue Management (AQM) algorithms proposed for packet queueing in Internet routers. AQM algorithms often exploit the idea of queue-size based packet dropping. The main results include analytical solutions for queue size distribution, loss ratio and throughput. The analytical results are illustrated via numerical examples that include some commonly used blocking probabilities (dropping functions).
Single Frequency Ionosphere-free Precise Point Positioning: A Cross-correlation Problem?
Authors: Choy S. , Silcock D.
Published: September 2011

Single Frequency Ionosphere-free Precise Point Positioning: A Cross-correlation Problem?

This research investigates the feasibility of applying the code and the ionosphere-free code and phase delay observables for single frequency Precise Point Positioning (PPP) processing. Two observation models were studied: the single frequency ionosphere-free code and phase delay, termed the quasi-phase observable, and the code and quasi-phase combination. When implementing the code and quasi-phase combination, the cross-correlation between the observables must be considered. However, the development of an appropriate weight matrix, which can adequately describe the noise characteristics of the single frequency code and quasi-phase observations, is not a trivial task. The noise in the code measurements is highly dependent on the effects of the ionosphere; while the quasi-phase measurements are basically free from the effects of the ionospheric error. Therefore, it is of interest to investigate whether the correlation between the two measurements can be neglected when the code measurements were re-introduced to constrain the initial parameters estimation and thereby improving the phase ambiguities initialization process. It is revealed that the assumed uncorrelated code and quasi-phase combination provided comparable if not better positioning precision than the quasi-phase measurement alone. The level of improvement in the estimated positions is between 1 - 18 cm RMS.
Real and Artificial Differential Item Functioning
Authors: Andrich David , Hagquist Curt
Published: September 2011

The literature in modern test theory on procedures for identifying items with differential item functioning (DIF) among two groups of persons includes the Mantel–Haenszel (MH) procedure. Generally, it is not recognized explicitly that if there is real DIF in some items which favor one group, then as an artifact of this procedure, artificial DIF that favors the other group is induced in the other items. Using the Rasch model for dichotomous responses as a theoretical basis, this article proves that the source of artificial DIF in the MH procedure is that estimates of the person locations are substituted for their unknown values. The article then demonstrates that the formalization of artificial DIF implies mathematically (a) a particular sequential, iterative procedure for detecting items with real DIF and for identifying a set of items that may have no DIF and (b) a resolution of the items with real DIF for quantifying the DIF on the same metric as the items showing no DIF and provides expected value curves and tests of fit for the item for each of the groups. Finally, because the source of artificial DIF in the MH procedure is the substitution of a parameter with its estimate, it is suggested that all procedures that use the substitution of an estimate for a parameter are likely to induce artificial DIF.
Safety of early endovascular catheterization and intervention through extracranial-intracranial bypass grafts
Authors: Qahwash Omar M. , Alaraj Ali , Aletich Victor , Charbel Fady T. , Amin-Hanjani Sepideh
Published: September 2011

Object

The goal of this study was to demonstrate feasibility and evaluate technical aspects of early endovascular access through extracranial-intracranial (EC-IC) bypass grafts.

Methods

Patients undergoing endovascular interventions through the graft in the acute postoperative period following EC-IC bypass are presented. Results, complications, and technical nuances are reviewed.

Results

Fourteen endovascular procedures were performed in 5 patients after EC-IC bypass for ruptured aneurysms in 4 patients and posterior circulation ischemia in 1 patient. In 2 patients, a saphenous vein graft (SVG) was used to bypass the common carotid artery (CCA) to the middle cerebral artery (MCA). One patient underwent a superficial temporal artery (STA)–MCA bypass, and in 2 other patients the STA stump was connected to the intracranial circulation via an interposition SVG. The interval from surgery to endovascular intervention spanned 2–18 days; the indication was intracranial vasospasm in all patients. One case involved angioplasty of the proximal anastomosis on postoperative Day 14. All other interventions entailed proximal access through the bypass conduit for intraarterial infusion of vasodilators. Significant vasospasm of the STA itself was encountered in 2 patients during endovascular manipulation, and it was treated with intraarterial nitroglycerin. There were no cases of anastomotic disruption.

Conclusions

Endovascular catheterization and intervention involving a recent EC-IC bypass is feasible. The main limitation in this series was catheter-induced vasospasm involving the STA. A vein graft may be the more appropriate option in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage who may require subsequent endovascular intervention for vasospasm.
Approximating Frequent Items in Asynchronous Data Stream over a Sliding Window
Authors: Ting Hing-Fung , Lee Lap-Kei , Chan Ho-Leung , Lam Tak-Wah
Published: September 2011

In an asynchronous data stream, the data items may be out of order with respect to their original timestamps. This paper studies the space complexity required by a data structure to maintain such a data stream so that it can approximate the set of frequent items over a sliding time window with sufficient accuracy. Prior to our work, the best solution is given by Cormode et al. [1], who gave an O (1/ε log W log (εB/ log W) min {log W, 1/ε} log |U|)- space data structure that can approximate the frequent items within an ε error bound, where W and B are parameters of the sliding window, and U is the set of all possible item names. We gave a more space-efficient data structure that only requires O (1/ε log W log (εB/ logW) log log W) space.
Intra-Group Conflict and Teamwork Quality: The Moderating Role of Leadership Styles
Authors: Curşeu Petru L.
Published: September 2011

The study examines the extent to which task and relations oriented leadership moderate the impact of task and relationship conflict on teamwork quality. In a sample of 37 teams, the study shows that relationship oriented leadership is beneficial for dealing with relationship conflict, but it does not have the expected positive interaction effect with task conflict. The main practical implication of the results is that in order to mitigate the negative effects of intra-group conflict on teamwork quality the leadership style should fit the type of disagreement (task versus relational) predominantly experienced by the teams.
Notions of Female Authority in Modern Shi’i Thought
Authors: Tajali Mona
Published: September 2011

The dominant Shi’i gender discourse has undergone major shifts in recent years, resulting in revisions of various jurisprudential rulings on women’s rights and status. Among such shifts, there have been rulings on female authority, particularly women’s right to access political decision-making positions. Despite being a controversial topic that has historically faced much clerical debate and disagreement, in recent years a number of reformist clerics have argued in favor of women’s leadership, which is considered a radical departure from the conventional stance. While there are a number of reasons that have contributed to these modernist clerical views in recent years, I argue that the most significant is women’s demands and mobilization for reform of misogynist Shari‘a-based laws. Through reference to clerical gender discourses unfolding in Iran, a Shi’i state, this work will shed light onto the modernist clerical discourses that resulted from women’s strategic and organized pressuring for enhanced women’s political representation. In this regard, this work will examine the interactions between women’s groups and religious elites, in particular pious women’s efforts to publicize and politicize the issue of female authority and women’s access to leadership positions within the Iranian society, as well as the various types of justifications offered by Shi’i clerics for enhancing women’s political rights. By analyzing the recent clerical reformist discourses, this article identifies two dominant types of justifications used by such clerics in explaining the shift from the conventional stand on the subject of female authority, which are categorized as a contextual rereading and a feminist rereading. This analysis will conclude by evaluating the impact of these different types of clerical responses on the future prospects of reform in the society, especially democratization of religious interpretation.
Open-Pollinated vs. Hybrid Maize Cultivars
Authors: Kutka Frank
Published: September 2011

The history of maize breeding methods in the USA is reviewed to examine the question of types of maize cultivars in sustainable agriculture. The yield potential of OP cultivars was much higher than national average yields prior to 1930, but hybrid cultivars today often out-yield OP cultivars by 50–100% or more. However, rates of gain for yield using recurrent selection on populations appear equal to that recorded for commercial hybrid breeding. The inbred-hybrid method, while successful, was not “the only sound basis” for maize improvement, as evidenced by later experiences in the United States and worldwide. It appears that maize breeders have practiced objective science and achieved concrete goals, although personal interests and goals clearly direct the work at times. As society looks for tools for sustainability based on achieving multiple goals, a special dedication to scientific validation and broad objectivity may be required. The potential for OP cultivars today is evaluated and research questions are identified.
Do Political Attitudes Affect Consumer Choice? Evidence from a Large-Scale Field Study with Genetically Modified Bread in Switzerland
Authors: Aerni Philipp
Published: September 2011

Independent of the left-right model of ideological structure, genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food and agriculture are resented across the political spectrum in Switzerland. In the absence of any real experience with genetically modified (GM) food but faced with continuous exposure to warning messages in the media, conditioned feelings related to such a politically sensitive product may have a significant influence on revealed consumer choice. In our large-scale field study, we examined this assumption by selling three types of bread labeled as ‘made with organic corn’, ‘made with genetically modified corn’ and ‘made with conventional corn’ respectively in five locations across Switzerland using different price scenarios and selling groups. Customers who decided to buy bread also received an envelope containing a questionnaire about their prior political attitude expressed through their voting decision in a national referendum on a five-year ban on GMOs in 2005. The results demonstrate that consumer purchase decisions are determined by contextual factors not captured by general political attitudes. Surprisingly, the mere presence of GM food did have a positive impact on overall sales. The assumption that consumers would feel turned off by the mere presence of GM food for political reasons can therefore be safely discarded.
Rogun Dam—Path to Energy Independence or Security Threat?
Authors: Eshchanov Bahtiyor R. , Stultjes Mona Grinwis Plaat , Salaev Sanaatbek K. , Eshchanov Ruzumboy A.
Published: September 2011

The revitalization of the Rogun hydropower station project and launch of an Initial Public Offering has led the water-energy disputes between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to a new stage. While two riparian states advocate their positions from their own perspective, it gives the impression of being a “prisoners’ dilemma” case from a regional cooperation point. This paper aims to review the decision of project revitalization from the unconventional security perspective, focusing mainly on its impact on Tajikistan. The scope will be limited to economic, energy, social and political security. The paper attempts to reveal the existing unconventional security threats and suggest possible solutions for the arising problems.
Phenotypic Changes in Different Spinach Varieties Grown and Selected under Organic Conditions
Authors: Serpolay Estelle , Schermann Nicolas , Dawson Julie , Van Bueren Edith T. Lammerts , Goldringer Isabelle , Chable Véronique
Published: September 2011

Organic and low-input agriculture needs flexible varieties that can buffer environmental stress and adapt to the needs of farmers. We implemented an experiment to investigate the evolutionary capacities of a sample of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) population varieties for a number of phenotypic traits. Three farmers cultivated, selected and multiplied one or several populations over two years on their farms. The third year, the versions of the varieties cultivated and selected by the different farmers were compared to the original seed lots they had been given. After two cycles of cultivation and on-farm mass selection, all the observed varieties showed significant phenotypic changes (differences between the original version and the version cultivated by farmers) for morphological and phenological traits. When the divergence among versions within varieties was studied, the results show that the varieties conserved their identity, except for one variety, which evolved in such a way that it may now be considered two different varieties. The heterogeneity of the population varieties was assessed in comparison with a commercial F1 hybrid used as control, and we found no specific differences in phenotypic diversity between the hybrid and population varieties. The phenotypic changes shown by the population varieties in response to on-farm cultivation and selection could be useful for the development of specific adaptation. These results call into question the current European seed legislation and the requirements of phenotypic stability for conservation varieties.
Role of Phospholipase A2 in Retrograde Transport of Ricin
Authors: Klokk Tove Irene , Lingelem Anne Berit Dyve , Myrann Anne-Grethe , Sandvig Kirsten
Published: September 2011

Ricin is a protein toxin classified as a bioterror agent, for which there are no known treatment options available after intoxication. It is composed of an enzymatically active A-chain connected by a disulfide bond to a cell binding B-chain. After internalization by endocytosis, ricin is transported retrogradely to the Golgi and ER, from where the ricin A-chain is translocated to the cytosol where it inhibits protein synthesis and thus induces cell death. We have identified cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 (PLA2) as an important factor in ricin retrograde transport. Inhibition of PLA2 protects against ricin challenge, however the toxin can still be endocytosed and transported to the Golgi. Interestingly, ricin transport from the Golgi to the ER is strongly impaired in response to PLA2 inhibition. Confocal microscopy analysis shows that ricin is still colocalized with the trans-Golgi marker TGN46 in the presence of PLA2 inhibitor, but less is colocalized with the cis-Golgi marker GM130. We propose that PLA2 inhibition results in impaired ricin transport through the Golgi stack, thus preventing it from reaching the ER. Consequently, ricin cannot be translocated to the cytosol to exert its toxic action.
Distinction of nucleobases – a tip-enhanced Raman approach
Authors: Treffer Regina , Lin Xiumei , Bailo Elena , Deckert-Gaudig Tanja , Deckert Volker
Published: September 2011

The development of novel DNA sequencing methods is one of the ongoing challenges in various fields of research seeking to address the demand for sequence information. However, many of these techniques rely on some kind of labeling or amplification steps. Here we investigate the intrinsic properties of tip-enhanced Raman scattering (TERS) towards the development of a novel, label-free, direct sequencing method. It is known that TERS allows the acquisition of spectral information with high lateral resolution and single-molecule sensitivity. In the presented experiments, single stranded adenine and uracil homopolymers were immobilized on different kinds of substrates (mica and gold nanoplates) and TERS experiments were conducted, which demonstrated the reproducibility of the technique. To elucidate the signal contributions from the specific nucleobases, TERS spectra were collected on single stranded calf thymus DNA with arbitrary sequence. The results show that, while the Raman signals with respect to the four nucleobases differ remarkably, specific markers can be determined for each respective base. The combination of sensitivity and reproducibility shows that the crucial demands for a sequencing procedure are met.
Lamivudine-Resistant HBV Infection in HIV-Positive Patients Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in a Public Routine Clinic in Cameroon
Authors: Kouanfack Charles , Aghokeng Avelin F , Mondain Anne-Marie , Bourgeois Anke , Kenfack Alain , Mpoudi-Ngolé Eitel , Ducos Jacques , Delaporte Eric , Laurent Christian
Published: September 2011

Background

In Africa, most HIV–HBV-coinfected patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) receive an anti-HBV lamivudine monotherapy that has been shown in northern countries to lead to frequent emergence of drug resistance. We assessed the HBV prevalence and the rate and pattern of lamivudine-resistant HBV mutations in Cameroonian HIV-infected, ART-treated patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was performed in 2006–2007 at the HIV/AIDS outpatient clinic of the Central Hospital in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Plasma samples were tested as appropriate for hepatitis B surface antigens, antibodies to hepatitis B core, HBV DNA, genotypes and lamivudine-resistant polymerase mutations.

Results

Of 552 adult patients (71% women, median age 38 years), 290 had received lamivudine-based ART for 12 months and 262 for 24 months. No patient had received tenofovir. The prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen was 9.8%. Overall, 26% of seropositive patients had an HBV DNA level >40 IU/ml. Genotypes A and E were identified. Polymerase resistance mutations were detected in 14% and 60% of patients at months 12 and 24, respectively.

Conclusions

This study supports both WHO recommendations of screening for HBV before initiation of ART and of using ART containing tenofovir and either lamivudine or emtricitabine in HIV–HBV-coinfected patients in Africa.
Tripartite Motif-Containing Protein 28 Is a Small Ubiquitin-Related Modifier E3 Ligase and Negative Regulator of IFN Regulatory Factor 7
Authors: Liang Qiming , Deng Hongying , Li Xiaojuan , Wu Xianfang , Tang Qiyi , Chang Tsung-Hsien , Peng Hongzhuang , Rauscher Frank J. , Ozato Keiko , Zhu Fanxiu
Published: September 2011

IFN regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) is a potent transcription factor of type I IFNs and IFN-stimulated genes and is known as the master regulator of type I IFN-dependent immune responses. Because excessive responses could harm the host, IRF7 itself is delicately regulated at the transcriptional, translational, and posttranslational levels. Modification of IRF7 by small ubiquitin-related modifiers (SUMOs) has been shown to regulate IFN expression and antiviral responses negatively, but the specific E3 ligase needed for IRF7 SUMOylation has remained unknown. As reported in this article, we have identified the tripartite motif-containing protein 28 (TRIM28) as a binding partner of IRF7. We have demonstrated that TRIM28 also interacts with the SUMO E2 enzyme and increases SUMOylation of IRF7 both in vivo and in vitro, suggesting it acts as a SUMO E3 ligase of IRF7. Unlike the common SUMO E3 ligase, protein inhibitor of activated STAT1, the E3 activity of TRIM28 is specific to IRF7, because it has little effect on IRF7’s close relative IRF3. TRIM28 is therefore, so far as we know, the first IRF7-specific SUMO E3 reported. TRIM28-mediated SUMOylation of IRF7 is increased during viral infection, and SUMOylation of transcription factors usually results in transcriptional repression. Overexpression of TRIM28 therefore inhibits IRF7 transactivation activity, whereas knockdown of TRIM28 has the opposite effect and potentiates IFN production and antiviral responses. Collectively, our results suggest that TRIM28 is a specific SUMO E3 ligase and negative regulator of IRF7.
Hemorrhagic Shock Activation of NLRP3 Inflammasome in Lung Endothelial Cells
Authors: Xiang Meng , Shi Xiaolian , Li Yuehua , Xu Jia , Yin Lianhua , Xiao Guozhi , Scott Melanie J. , Billiar Timothy R. , Wilson Mark A. , Fan Jie
Published: September 2011

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) due to major trauma and surgery predisposes the host to the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), including acute lung injury (ALI), through activating and exaggerating the innate immune response. IL-1β is a crucial proinflammatory cytokine that contributes to the development of SIRS and ALI. Lung endothelial cells (EC) are one important source of IL-1β, and the production of active IL-1β is controlled by the inflammasome. In this study, we addressed the mechanism underlying HS activation of the inflammasome in lung EC. We show that high mobility group box 1 acting through TLR4, and a synergistic collaboration with TLR2 and receptor for advanced glycation end products signaling, mediates HS-induced activation of EC NAD(P)H oxidase. In turn, reactive oxygen species derived from NAD(P)H oxidase promote the association of thioredoxin-interacting protein with the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein NLRP3 and subsequently induce inflammasome activation and IL-1β secretion from the EC. We also show that neutrophil-derived reactive oxygen species play a role in enhancing EC NAD(P)H oxidase activation and therefore an amplified inflammasome activation in response to HS. The present study explores a novel mechanism underlying HS activation of EC inflammasome and thus presents a potential therapeutic target for SIRS and ALI induced after HS.
Saúde urbana, ambiente e desigualdades
Authors: Azambuja Maria Inês Reinert , Achutti Aloyzio Cechella , Reis Roberta Alvarenga , Silva Jacqueline Oliveira , Fisher Paul Douglas , Rosa Roger dos Santos , Bordin Ronaldo , Oliveira Francisco Arsego de , Celeste Roger Keller , Schneider Aline Petter , Campani Darci Barnech , Piccinini Lívia , Ramos Maurem , Sattler Miguel Aloysio , Oliveira Paulo Antonio Barros , Lewgoy Alzira Maria Baptista
Published: September 2011

Os ambientes psicossocial, econômico e físico, nos quais se nasce, cresce, vive e trabalha, afetam a saúde e a longevidade, tanto quanto o fumo, o exercício e a dieta. A atenção individual à saúde não é suficiente para prevenir ou controlar os efeitos das más condições ambientais. Evidências históricas e atuais apontam para o agravamento das condições de saúde das populações mais pobres, acompanhando processos de urbanização rápida. Esperadamente, o envelhecimento populacional num ambiente urbano de desigualdade social deverá agravar a situação de saúde da população mais pobre, resultando em mais sofrimento e em perdas econômicas para o país. Com base nestas justificativas, um grupo de professores da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul se organizou, via extensão universitária, para contribuir com a discussão e as iniciativas nacionais de intervenção sobre a saúde urbana. Os projetos do grupo abarcam: o debate sobre o impacto potencial de iniciativas privadas e políticas públicas setoriais (de habitação, saneamento, transporte, educação, inovação tecnológica, sustentabilidade ambiental etc.) na saúde urbana; a produção e divulgação de conteúdos sobre determinantes sociais e ambientais da saúde; a produção e disseminação dos indicadores de desigualdade social dos determinantes da saúde; a formação de recursos humanos; e a participação em redes sociais. A apresentação pública deste projeto cumpre o objetivo de contribuir desde já com essa discussão.
Demanda espontânea e planejamento estratégico situacional no Programa Saúde da Família de Pindamonhangaba
Authors: Santana Milena Lopes
Published: September 2011

A partir de pesquisa qualitativa embasada na triangulação de métodos, objetivou-se avaliar a percepção de gerentes, técnicos e usuários de quatro unidades de saúde da família de Pindamonhangaba (SP), quanto à condução da demanda espontânea, no intuito de averiguar se ela está contemplada no Planejamento Estratégico Situacional. Foram encontradas as seguintes estruturas de análise relacionadas à condução da demanda espontânea: acolhimento, processo de trabalho, registros, prioridades, planos, comunicação e educação permanente. Os momentos explicativo, normativo, estratégico e operacional foram os temas pertinentes ao planejamento estratégico. A análise das falas sugere que o processo de trabalho é fragmentado, hierarquizado e centrado no enfermeiro. As prioridades de atendimento não se dão por meio de critérios técnicos, mas pelo senso comum, o que resulta no descontentamento do usuário e na oferta de assistência de baixa qualidade. Os profissionais envolvidos não promovem processo comunicativo capaz de uniformizar a linguagem, útil na elaboração de um objetivo comum. Não há, portanto, sinergia da equipe para o alcance de melhores formas de se conduzir a demanda espontânea, as quais resultam de um plano mental, da “tentativa e erro” e da experiência cotidiana, em detrimento de um pensamento estratégico. O estudo revela que o atual modelo de gestão deve ser revisto, sob o risco de comprometer o desenvolvimento ’sócio regional, e propõe a implantação de educação permanente para os trabalhadores de saúde do município, com ênfase no planejamento estratégico, na apropriação e reinterpretação das características do território e situações vivenciadas.
Case-matched series of enhanced versus standard recovery pathway in minimally invasive colorectal surgery
Authors: Lovely J K , Maxson P M , Jacob A K , Cima R R , Horlocker T T , Hebl J R , Harmsen W S , Huebner M , Larson D W
Published: September 2011

Background

Accelerated recovery pathways may reduce length of hospital stay after surgery but there are few data on minimally invasive colorectal operations.

Methods

An enhanced recovery pathway (ERP) was instituted, including preoperative analgesia, limited intravenous fluids and opiates, and early feeding. Intrathecal analgesia was administered as needed, but epidural analgesia was not used. The first 66 patients subjected to the ERP were case-matched by surgeon, procedure and age (within 5 years) with patients treated previously in a fast-track pathway (FTP). Short-term and postoperative outcomes to 30 days were compared.

Results

Hospital stay was shorter with the ERP than the FTP: median (interquartile range, i.q.r.) 3 (2–3) versus 3 (3–5) days (P < 0·001). A 2-day hospital stay was achieved in 44 and 8 per cent of patients respectively (P < 0·001). Patients in the ERP had a shorter time to recovery of bowel function: median (i.q.r.) 1 (1–2) versus 2 (2–3) days (P < 0·001). Thirty-day complication rates were similar (32 per cent ERP, 27 per cent FTP; P = 0·570). Readmissions within 30 days were more common with ERP, but the difference was not statistically significant (10 versus 5 patients; P = 0·170). Total hospital stay for those readmitted was shorter in the ERP group (18 versus 23 days).

Conclusion

ERP decreased the length of hospital stay after minimally invasive colorectal surgery. Copyright © 2011 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐Dependent Density Functional Theory for Calculating Origin‐Independent Optical Rotation and Rotatory Strength Tensors
Authors: Autschbach Jochen
Published: September 2011

An approach to calculate origin‐independent electronic chiroptical property tensors using time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) and gauge‐including atomic orbital (GIAO) basis sets is evaluated. Computations of origin‐dependent optical rotation tensors and of rotatory strengths needed to simulate circular dichroism spectra are presented. The optical rotation tensor computations employ solutions of coupled perturbed Kohn–Sham equations for a dynamic electric field and a static magnetic field. Because the magnetic field is time independent, the GIAO treatment is somewhat simplified compared to a previously reported method, at some added computational cost if hybrid functionals are employed. GIAO rotatory strengths are also calculated, using transition density matrices from a standard TDDFT excitation energy module. A new implementation in the NWChem quantum chemistry package is employed for representative computations of origin‐invariant chiroptical response tensors for methyloxirane, norbornenone, and the ketosteroid androstadienone. For the steroid molecule the vibrational structure of the CD spectrum is modeled explicitly by using calculated Franck–Condon factors. The agreement with experiment is favorable.
Degradation‐induced changes of mechanical properties of an electro‐spun polyester‐urethane scaffold for soft tissue regeneration
Authors: Krynauw Hugo , Bruchmüller Lucie , Bezuidenhout Deon , Zilla Peter , Franz Thomas
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was the in vitro investigation of the change in mechanical properties of a fast‐degrading electro‐spun polymeric scaffold for the use in soft tissue regenerative implants. Tubular scaffolds were electro‐spun from a DegraPol® D30 polyesther‐urethane solution (target outer diameter: 5.0 mm; scaffold wall thickness: 0.99 ± 0.18 mm). Scaffold samples were subjected to hydrolytic in vitro degradation for up to 34 days. The fiber network structure and fiber surfaces were inspected on scanning electron micrographs. Following vacuum drying and determination of mass, flat samples (9.69 ± 0.21 × 18.47 ± 2.62 mm, n = 5) underwent uni‐axial tensile testing (5 load cycles, strain ε = 0 to 20%; final extension to failure) in circumferential scaffold direction after 5, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, and 34 days of degradation. Scaffold mass did not change with degradation. Maximum elastic modulus, maximum stress and associated strain were Emax = 1.14 ± 0.23 MPa, σmax = 0.52 ± 0.12 MPa and εmax = 176.8 ± 21.9% before degradation and Emax = 0.43 ± 0.26 MPa, σmax = 0.033 ± 0.028 MPa and εmax = 24.6 ± 3.0% after 34 days of degradation. The deterioration of mechanical properties was not reflected in the ultrastructural surface morphology of the fibers. The current exploratory study provides a basis for the development of constitutive computational models of biodegradable scaffolds with future extension of the investigation most importantly to capture mechanical effects of regenerating tissue. Future studies will include degradation in biological fluids and assessment of molecular weight for an advanced understanding of the material changes during degradation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Testate amoebae as estuarine water‐level indicators: modern distribution and the development of a transfer function from a freshwater tidal marsh (Scheldt estuary, Belgium)
Authors: Ooms Marijke , Beyens Louis , Temmerman Stijn
Published: September 2011

Little is known about the century‐scale response of water levels in inland estuaries to sea‐level change and human modifications to estuarine morphology. This study explored the ability of using testate amoebae (Protozoa, Rhizopoda) from sediments of a freshwater tidal marsh as indicators of water level in an inland estuary. The hypothesis was that modern testate amoeba assemblages change with surface elevation (approximately the duration of tidal flooding) within a freshwater tidal marsh. Variation in testate amoeba assemblages in relation to multiple environmental variables and sediment characteristics was studied through redundancy analysis. This demonstrated that a significant part of the variation in modern testate amoeba assemblages could be explained by flooding frequency, surface elevation, organic content and particle size of the soil. Transfer functions, partial least squares and weighted average regressions were made to show that testate amoebae can be used for reconstruction of water level (with an accuracy of 0.05 Normalized Elevation). A preliminary test of application of the transfer function to palaeo testate amoeba assemblages showed promising results. Testate amoebae from a freshwater tidal marsh provide a potentially powerful new tool for estuarine water‐level reconstructions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geophysical surveys of the sediments of Loch Ness, Scotland: implications for the deglaciation of the Moray Firth Ice Stream, British–Irish Ice Sheet
Authors: Turner Andrew J. , Woodward John , Dunning Stuart A. , Shine Adrian J. , Stokes Chris R. , Cofaigh Colm Ó
Published: September 2011

We present results from three geophysical campaigns using high‐resolution sub‐bottom profiling to image sediments deposited in Loch Ness, Scotland. Sonar profiles show distinct packages of sediment, providing insight into the loch's deglacial history. A recessional moraine complex in the north of the loch indicates initial punctuated retreat. Subsequent retreat was rapid before stabilisation at Foyers Rise formed a large stillstand moraine. Here, the calving margin produced significant volumes of laminated sediments in a proglacial fjord‐like environment. Subsequent to this, ice retreated rapidly to the southern end of the loch, where it again deposited a sequence of proglacial laminated sediments. Sediment sequences were then disturbed by the deposition of a thick gravel layer and a large turbidite deposit as a result of a jökulhlaup from the Spean/Roy ice‐dammed lake. These sediments are overlain by a Holocene sheet drape. Data indicate: (i) a former tributary of the Moray Firth Ice Stream migrated back into Loch Ness as a major outlet glacier with a calving margin in a fjord‐like setting; (ii) there was significant sediment supply to the terminus of this outlet glacier in Loch Ness; and (iii) that jökulhlaups are important for sediment supply into proglacial fjord/lake environments and may compose >20% of proglacial sedimentary sequences. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density‐dependence in the survival and reproduction of Bald Eagles: Linkages to Chum Salmon
Authors: Elliott Kyle Hamish , Elliott John E. , Wilson Laurie K. , Jones Iain , Stenerson Ken
Published: September 2011

During the late 20th Century, due to decreases in both contamination and persecution, bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) populations increased dramatically. Currently, mechanisms regulating eagle populations are not well understood. To examine potential regulating processes in the Pacific Northwest, where eagles are no longer primarily regulated by contaminants or direct persecution, we examined bald eagle reproductive success, breeding populations, winter populations, mortality, and salmon stream use. Wintering and breeding eagle populations in south‐coastal British Columbia (BC) quadrupled between the early 1980s and the late 1990s, and have since stabilized. Density‐dependent declines in reproduction occurred during 1986–2009, but not through changes in site quality. Mid‐winter survival was crucial as most mortality occurred then, and models showed that density‐dependent reductions in population growth rates were partially due to reduced survival. Wintering eagles in British Columbia fed heavily on chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) runs, and then switched to birds in late winter, when mortality was highest. Eagles tended to arrive after the peak in salmon availability at streams in BC as part of a migration associated with salmon streams from Alaska to northern Washington. Eagles were most abundant in southern BC during cold Alaskan winters and in years of high chum salmon availability. We suggest that eagle populations in the Pacific Northwest are currently partially limited by density on the breeding grounds and partially by adult mortality in late winter, likely due to reduced late winter salmon stocks forcing eagles to exploit more marginal prey supplies. Larger eagle populations have affected some local prey populations. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
High selectivity dual‐wideband bandpass filter with triple‐mode stub‐loaded stepped‐impedance resonators
Authors: Deng Hong‐Wei , Liu Bing , Zhao Yong‐Jiu , Chen Wen , Zhang Xue‐Shun
Published: September 2011

A novel high selectivity dual‐wideband microstrip bandpass filter (BPF) with two triple‐mode stub‐loaded stepped‐impedance resonators (SIRs) is proposed in this letter. Either of the SIRs can not only separately generate one passband but also control the passband performance. Because of the intrinsic characteristics of the SIRs, four transmission zeros can be generated to improve the selectivity. A dual‐wideband filter with the fractional bandwidth 15.4% and 10.2% is designed and fabricated. The dual‐wideband filter is evaluated by experiment and simulation with good agreement. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 53:2851–2854, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.26371