bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Wi, se kretyènn mwen ye” (Yes I am Christian)
Authors: Mézié Nadège
Published: May 2012

During a field study of a year and a half in the Haitian mountains, I was forced to re-evaluate my research strategy, and consequently the object of my study, after a setback that denied me access to the American evangelical mission, which I had hoped to study from within. This failure to integrate as a non-Protestant researcher, led me to adopt a methodological falsehood to allow me to penetrate the Haitian evangelical mission. The researcher who chooses methodological falsehood has to fashion a passing and superficial redefinition of her appearance, beliefs and practices, and live her new religious identity according to the prevalent beliefs and norms. This paper will focus on the fieldworker’s daily performance in her role of “Christian woman,” and the strategies put in place to respond to the prescriptive criteria of the role being played.
Louis Massignon and Ali Shariati
Authors: Emami Mohammad
Published: May 2012

The interactions of Christianity and Islam have usually been regarded as strained, yet there are extraordinary examples of personal relationships that rise above the usual norm. Massignon and Shariati reflect one such case. This commentary briefly explores the enigmatic nature of their encounter based on my personal knowledge of Ali Shariati.
The Role of Secondary Cytoreductive Surgery in Patients with Recurrent Epithelial Ovarian, Tubal, and Peritoneal Cancers: A Comparative Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Chuang Chi-Mu , Chou Yiing-Jeng , Yen Ming-Shyen , Chao Kuan-Chong , Twu Nae-Fang , Wu Hua-Hsi , Wen Kuo-Chang , Chen Yi-Jen , Wang Peng-Hui , Lai Chung-Ru , Chou Pesus
Published: May 2012

Background.

All published reports concerning secondary cytoreductive surgery for relapsed ovarian cancer have essentially been observational studies. However, the validity of observational studies is usually threatened from confounding by indication. We sought to address this issue by using comparative effectiveness methods to adjust for confounding.

Methods.

Using a prospectively collected administrative health care database in a single institution, we identified 1,124 patients diagnosed with recurrent epithelial, tubal, and peritoneal cancers between 1990 and 2009. Effectiveness of secondary cytoreductive surgery using the conventional Cox proportional hazard model, propensity score, and instrumental variable were compared. Sensitivity analyses for residual confounding were explored using an array approach.

Results.

Secondary cytoreductive surgery prolonged overall survival with a hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of 0.76 (range 0.66–0.87), using the Cox proportional hazard model. Propensity score methods produced comparable results: 0.75 (range 0.64–0.86) by nearest matching, 0.73 (0.65–0.82) by quintile stratification, 0.71 (0.65–0.77) by weighting, and 0.72 (0.63–0.83) by covariate adjustment. The instrumental variable method also produced a comparable estimate: 0.75 (range 0.65–0.86). Sensitivity analyses revealed that the true treatment effects may approach the null hypothesis if the association between unmeasured confounders and disease outcome is high.

Conclusions.

This comparative effectiveness study provides supportive evidence for previous reports that secondary cytoreductive surgery may increase overall survival for patients with recurrent epithelial, tubal, and peritoneal cancers.
Temperature‐induced mismatches between consumption and metabolism reduce consumer fitness
Authors: Lemoine Nathan P. , Burkepile Deron E.
Published: May 2012

As physiological processes of ectotherms are coupled to environmental temperature, climate change will likely alter their fundamental biological rates, including metabolism, consumption, growth, and reproduction. Here we combine the metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) with metabolism and consumption measurements of a model organism, the urchin Lytechinus variegatus, to test how climate change will affect consumer fitness. Unexpectedly, we found that metabolism and consumption exhibit different scaling relationships with temperature and are mismatched at high temperatures. This led to a dramatic reduction in ingestion efficiency and potentially in consumer fitness. Using meta‐analysis, we showed that such temperature‐driven mismatches between consumption and metabolism are common across taxa and frequently lead to reduced consumer fitness. Our empirical and synthetic analyses identify a mechanism by which climate change reduces the fitness of ectotherm consumers that may be applied to a broad array of taxonomic groups. Moreover, we showed that the assumptions of MTE do not hold at temperatures near the upper range of species' thermal tolerances for a wide array of taxa. Models using MTE to predict the effects of climate change on consumer–resource dynamics may therefore be underestimating the consequences of rising temperatures on population and community dynamics.
The State of Genomic Health Care and Cancer Are We Going Two Steps Forward and One Step Backward?
Authors: Greco Karen E. , Mahon Suzanne M.
Published: May 2012

As the application of genomic information and technology crosses the horizon of health care into our everyday lives, expanding genomic knowledge continues to affect how health care services are defined and delivered. Genomic discoveries have led to enhanced clinical capabilities to predict susceptibility to common diseases and conditions such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Hundreds of genetic tests are now available that can identify individuals who carry one or more gene mutations that increase their risk of developing cancer or other common diseases. Increased availability and directto-consumer marketing of genetic testing is moving genetic testing away from trained genetics health professionals and into the hands of primary care providers and consumers. Genetic tests available on the Internet are being directly marketed to individuals, who can order these tests and receive a report of their risk for numerous health conditions and diseases. Health care providers are expected to interpret these test results, evaluate their accuracy, address the psychosocial consequences of those distressed by receiving their results, and translate genomic information into effective care. However, as we move two steps forward, we are also moving one step backward because many health care providers are unprepared for this genomic revolution. A number of international education, practice, and policy efforts are underway to address the challenges health care providers face in providing competent genomic health care in the context of unprecedented access to information, technology, and global communication. Efforts to integrate standard of care guidelines into electronic medical records increases health care providers' access to information for individuals at risk for or diagnosed with a genomic condition. Development of genomic competencies for health care providers has led to increased genomic content in academic programs. These and other efforts will keep the state of genomic health care stepping forward as we face the challenges of health care in the genomic era.
Implementation of Wireless Terminals at Farmers’ Markets: Impact on SNAP Redemption and Overall Sales
Authors: Bertmann Farryl M. W. , Ohri-Vachaspati Punam , Buman Matthew P. , Wharton Christopher M.
Published: May 2012

Although farmers’ markets offer healthy foods for purchase, many lack the equipment necessary to process convenient, card-based transactions. We assessed the impact of providing wireless terminals to 5 markets on overall sales and redemption of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Sales increased significantly at 4 of the 5 markets after implementation of the terminals, and overall sales increased above and beyond SNAP redemption alone. Implementation of wireless terminals may be important for improving the financial stability and accessibility of farmers’ markets.
Indigenous Health and Climate Change
Authors: Ford James D.
Published: May 2012

Indigenous populations have been identified as vulnerable to climate change. This framing, however, is detached from the diverse geographies of how people experience, understand, and respond to climate-related health outcomes, and overlooks nonclimatic determinants. I reviewed research on indigenous health and climate change to capture place-based dimensions of vulnerability and broader determining factors. Studies focused primarily on Australia and the Arctic, and indicated significant adaptive capacity, with active responses to climate-related health risks. However, nonclimatic stresses including poverty, land dispossession, globalization, and associated sociocultural transitions challenge this adaptability. Addressing geographic gaps in existing studies alongside greater focus on indigenous conceptualizations on and approaches to health, examination of global–local interactions shaping local vulnerability, enhanced surveillance, and an evaluation of policy support opportunities are key foci for future research.
Realities Concerning Cyclic Loading of Clay Below a Gravity Structure
Authors: Mizikos Jean-Pierre , Leroy Jean-Paul
Published: May 2012

The softest layer of the overconsolidated clay deposits below a North Sea gravity structure on FRIGG field is instrumented with, in particular, the non-disturbing installation of an original array of high resolution pressuremeter cells (0.05 cm3 and 0.1 kPa) called a "dyprometer". It is piloted in situ by an electrovalve that renders possible tests of effective soil strength under all kinds of static, cyclic and dynamic loadings. The results of dyprometer tests correlate with the results of the other triaxial cyclic tests on the same material and to the soil data of the foundation design.

Original and main results are :

– The sensitivity of the measurements has revealed the existence of a quasi-elastic soil response resulting from overconsolidation. Real storm loads stimulate only this behaviour and avoid clay fatigue. Consequently, the slab is overdimensioned. – The cyclic fatigue stress limit approximates the static creep limit. – In situ observations and in situ test results relates to triaxial cyclic testing simulating the actual in situ stress history and conditions.
Gas Dispersion in Granular Porous Media under Air‐Dry and Wet Conditions
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Hamamoto Shoichiro , Kawamoto Ken , Sakaki Toshihiro , Takahashi Manabu , Komatsu Toshiko , Wollesen de Jonge Lis , Lamandé Mathieu , Moldrup Per
Published: May 2012

Subsurface gaseous‐phase transport is governed by three gas transport parameters: the air permeability coefficient (ka), gas diffusion coefficient (DP), and gas dispersion coefficient (DH). Among these, DH is the least understood due to hitherto limited research into the relationship between gas dispersion and soil physical characteristics. In this study, a series of advection–dispersion experiments was performed on granular porous media to identify the effects of soil column dimensions (length and diameter), particle size and shape, dry bulk density, and moisture content on the magnitude of gas dispersion. Glass beads and various sands of different shapes (angular and rounded) with mean particle diameters (d50) ranging from 0.19 to 1.51 mm at both air‐dry and variable moisture contents were used as granular porous media. Gas dispersion coefficients and gas dispersivities (α = DH/v, where v is the pore‐gas velocity) were determined by fitting the advection–dispersion equation to the measured breakthrough curves. For all test conditions, DH increased linearly with v. The test results showed that neither soil column length nor diameter had significant effect on gas dispersivity. Under air‐dry conditions, higher gas dispersivities were observed for media with wider particle size distribution and higher dry bulk density. The minor effect of particle shape on gas dispersivity was found under both air‐dry and wet conditions. Under wet conditions, the variations in gas dispersivity were mainly controlled by the air‐filled porosity. An empirical model was also proposed for the prediction of gas dispersivity in granular, unsaturated porous media.
Assessment of Soil Phosphorus and Potassium following Real Time Kinematic‐Guided Broadcast and Deep‐Band Placement in Strip‐Till and No‐Till
Authors: Fernández Fabián G. , Schaefer Daniel
Published: May 2012

Fertilizer placement may cause non‐uniform nutrient distribution in the soil, making it difficult to determine whole‐field fertility by traditional sampling strategies. Our objectives were to determine P and K distribution after repeated applications in no‐till and strip‐till soils and to develop improved sampling procedures to estimate soil P and K levels on a corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation with crops planted at 76‐cm row spacing. Three trials near Pesotum, IL, received blends of 0–0, 22–42, 33–62, 44–83, 55–104, 66–125, and 77–145 kg P–K ha−1 in fall 2007 and 2009 before corn planting. Applications were broadcast‐applied in no‐till (NTBC) and strip‐till (STBC) and deep‐banded in strip‐till (STDB) 15 cm below the surface in the crop row (IR) using real‐time kinematic (RTK) satellite navigation. Every year soil P and K was measured at 10‐cm increments to a 30‐cm depth at 0, 19, 38, and 57 cm from the IR. Subsurface banding reduced P and K levels in the surface and increased them at the point of application, or deeper with the highest rate, while broadcast applications increased surface levels. Soil‐surface K levels were greater at IR likely because of K leaching from senescing standing crops. Soil‐test results indicated no need to adjust fertilizer rate based on tillage or fertilizer placement. A sampling ratio of 1:3 IR to between the crop rows (BR) seemed adequate to estimate soil fertility across a wide range of P‐ and K‐fertilizer rates and soil test levels where the location of the fertilizer band or planting row is maintained constant.
Valuing Long‐Term Field Experiments: Quantifying the Scientific Contribution of a Long‐Term Tillage Experiment
Authors: Peterson G. A. , Lyon D. J. , Fenster C. R.
Published: May 2012

The most well‐known long‐term field experiments in the world are those at the Rothamsted Experiment Station in the UK. The Broadbalk Experiment, initiated in 1843, is now more than 165 yr old. Several long‐term experiments also continue in the United States. Two of the most famous are the Morrow Plots in Illinois and Sanborn Field in Missouri. Some scientists and administrators have repeatedly questioned the reasons for continuing these experiments. The basic questions remain the same, whether the year is 1895 when Lawes and Gilbert responded to a challenge about the value of their long‐term experiments, or whether it is 2012 and modern‐day administrators are seeking ways to decrease costs. The questions are: “Are these experiments worth the cost?” and “Are we still learning something from them?” These questions are raised more frequently as research budgets become more tenuous. So, why write another paper regarding the value of long‐term field research? Do costly long‐term field experiments have any value relative to what some would label “cutting edge” research? Our objective is to use the history and scientific contributions of a more recently established (1970) long‐term soil management experiment at the University of Nebraska High Plains Agricultural Laboratory to provide modern evidence that maintaining existing long‐term field experiments, and initiating new ones, remains a valuable and critical investment. We show how an experiment conceived to study one objective has impacted numerous other pertinent issues during the last 40 yr. We argue that scientists and administrators should be protecting existing long‐term field experiments and establishing new ones to address current research issues.
Water network cost optimization in a paper mill based on a new library of mathematical models
Authors: Lizarralde I. , Claeys F. , Ordóñez R. , de Gracia M. , Sancho L. , Grau P.
Published: May 2012

The increasing costs associated with water supply and the disposal of wastewater has stimulated industries to seek more efficient water management systems. Mathematical modelling and simulation can be a very valuable tool for the study of the multiple alternatives available whilst assessing optimum solutions for water management in industry. This study introduces a new steady state model library able to reproduce industrial water circuits. It has been implemented in a novel software framework for the representation, simulation and optimization of industrial water networks. A water circuit representing a paper mill has been modelled and simulated showing the capability to reproduce real case studies. Alternative scenarios for the water network have also been tested to assess the capability of the models to optimize water circuits minimizing total cost.
Analysis of treated wastewater reuse potential for irrigation in Sicily
Authors: Barbagallo Salvatore , Cirelli Giuseppe Luigi , Consoli Simona , Licciardello Feliciana , Marzo Alessia , Toscano Attilio
Published: May 2012

In Mediterranean countries, water shortage is becoming a problem of high concern affecting the local economy, mostly based on agriculture. The problem is not only the scarcity of water in terms of average per capita, but the high cost to make water available at the right place, at the right time with the required quality. In these cases, an integrated approach for water resources management including wastewater is required. The management should also include treated wastewater (TWW) reclamation and reuse, especially for agricultural irrigation. In Italy, TWW reuse is regulated by a quite restrictive approach (Ministry Decree, M.D. 185/03), especially for some chemical compounds and microbiological parameters. The aim of the paper is the evaluation of TWW reuse potential in Sicily. A Geographic Information System (GIS) was built at regional level to quantify and locate the available TWW volumes. In particular, the characteristics of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) were integrated, through the GIS, with data on irrigation district areas. Moreover, in order to evaluate the Italian approach for reuse practice in agriculture, the water quality of different TWW effluents was analysed on the basis of both the Italian standards and the WHO guidelines.
Simultaneous photocatalytic oxidation of pharmaceuticals and inactivation of Escherichia coli in wastewater treatment plant effluents with suspended and immobilised TiO2
Authors: Pablos Cristina , van Grieken Rafael , Marugán Javier , Muñoz Alejandra
Published: May 2012

Simultaneous Escherichia coli inactivation and oxidation of pharmaceuticals in simulated wastewater treatment plant effluents has been investigated using a photocatalytic treatment with TiO2 in suspension and immobilised onto a fixed-bed reactor. Non-photocatalytic reference experiments of dark adsorption and photolysis showed a higher sensitivity of E. coli towards the chemical composition of water in comparison with the concentration of pharmaceuticals that remains unaffected. Moreover, it must be underlined that the presence of pharmaceuticals (including antibiotics) did not seem to affect the bacterial viability at such low concentrations. Concerning photocatalytic experiments, both suspended and immobilised TiO2 were able to simultaneously inactivate and oxidise both kinds of pollutants (bacteria and pharmaceuticals). The fixed-bed reactor showed similar activity to that of the slurry without deactivation after several cycles of reuse. That makes TiO2 photocatalysis a quite interesting technology for the treatment of drinking water supplies or wastewater plant effluents, allowing the removal of emerging contaminants such as pharmaceuticals during the disinfection treatment.
Causes of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and the Role of Maternal Periodontal Status – A Review of the Literature
Authors: Baskaradoss Jagan Kumar , Geevarghese Amrita , Al Dosari Abdullah Al Farraj
Published: May 2012

Preterm (PT) and Low birth weight (LBW) are considered to be the most relevant biological determinants of newborn infants survival, both in developed and in developing countries. Numerous risk factors for PT and LBW have been defined in the literature. Infections of the genitourinary tract infections along with various biological and genetic factors are considered to be the most common etiological factors for PT/LBW deliveries. However, evidence suggests that sub-clinical infection sites that are also distant from the genitor-urinary tract may be an important cause for PT/LBW deliveries. Maternal periodontal status has also been reported by many authors as a possible risk factor for PT and LBW, though not all of the actual data support such hypothesis. The aim of this paper is to review the evidence from various published literature on the association between the maternal periodontal status and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although this review found a consistent association between periodontitis and PT/LBW, this finding should be treated with great caution until the sources of heterogeneity can be explained.
Alibi Believability: The Impact of Salacious Alibi Activities
Authors: Allison Meredith , Mathews Kyla R. , Michael Stephen W.
Published: May 2012

We examined how alibi strength and a suspect's claim of engaging in salacious alibi activities impact alibi believability. Specifically, we investigated whether an alibi of watching an X-rated movie versus watching a regular movie caused differences in alibi believability, perceived
likelihood of guilt, and ratings of various character traits. Undergraduates read a crime description and a mock transcript before completing a questionnaire (adapted from Olson & Wells, 2004). Alibis were rated as more believable when the suspect provided a salacious alibi. Suspects with
salacious alibis were rated as more honest, open, and less likely to be guilty.
VisGraB: A Benchmark for Vision-Based Grasping
Authors: Kootstra Gert , Popović Mila , Jørgensen Jimmy Alison , Kragic Danica , Petersen Henrik Gordon , Krüger Norbert
Published: May 2012

We present a database and a software tool, VisGraB, for benchmarking of methods for vision-based grasping of unknown objects with no prior object knowledge. The benchmark is a combined real-world and simulated experimental setup. Stereo images of real scenes containing several objects in different configurations are included in the database. The user needs to provide a method for grasp generation based on the real visual input. The grasps are then planned, executed, and evaluated by the provided grasp simulator where several grasp-quality measures are used for evaluation. This setup has the advantage that a large number of grasps can be executed and evaluated while dealing with dynamics and the noise and uncertainty present in the real world images. VisGraB enables a fair comparison among different grasping methods. The user furthermore does not need to deal with robot hardware, focusing on the vision methods instead. As a baseline, benchmark results of our grasp strategy are included.
DNA aptamer configuration affects the sensitivity and binding kinetics of thrombin
Authors: Poturnayová Alexandra , Šnejdárková Maja , Hianik Tibor
Published: May 2012

DNA aptamer configuration affects the sensitivity and binding kinetics of thrombin

Thrombin is serine protease involved in the coagulation cascade, which converts soluble fibrinogen into insoluble strands of fibrin - a matrix of the blood clot formation. Development of the sensitive method of the thrombin detection in nanomolar level is important for clinical practice. In this work we applied acoustic thickness shear mode method (TSM) for study the binding of human thrombin depending on DNA aptamer configuration. We compared sensitivity of detection and binding kinetics of the thrombin to the conventional DNA aptamers and aptamer dimers immobilized at the surface of quartz crystal transducer. We have shown that aptasensors based on aptamer dimers more sensitively detect thrombin. The aptamer-thrombin complexes were also more stable as revealed from equilibrium dissociation constant,KD, that was 4 times lower for aptamer dimers in comparison with conventional aptamers. Determination of motional resistance,Rm, from acoustic impedance analysis allowed us to find important differences in physico-chemical properties of layers formed by conventional aptamers and aptamer dimers.
A human rights-based approach: A gate to development of African women's land rights?
Authors: Tengnäs Karin
Published: May 2012

The global competition for African land is at a historical peak. Local effects of large-scale land acquisitions depend on multiple factors, but women's rights and livelihoods are generally very fragile due to historical and contemporary injustices. Good land governance is important for turning the land acquisitions into equal and equitable development opportunities. The human rights-based approach promotes good governance by adding strength and legal substance to the principles of participation and inclusion, openness and transparency, accountability and the rule of law, and equality and nondiscrimination. By empowering rights-holders and enhancing duty-bearers' capacity, international development cooperation can lead to wider and more gender-balanced inclusion of civil society in negotiations of large-scale land acquisitions and greater adherence of duty-bearers to the rule of law. This is especially important in African countries with large amounts of land and weak legal and institutional frameworks to protect rights, especially those of women.
Use of Biofungicides for Controlling Plant Diseases to Improve Food Availability
Authors: De Cal Antonieta , Larena Inmaculada , Guijarro Belén , Melgarejo Paloma
Published: May 2012

Biological control of fungal plant pathogens can improve global food availability, one of the three pillars of food security, by reducing crop losses, particularly for low-income farmers. However, the interrelationships of many environmental variables can result in multiple interactions among the organisms and their environment, several of which might contribute to effective biological control. Here, we present an advanced survey of the nature and practice of biological control when it is used to control brown rot in stone fruit. Specifically, we describe the population dynamics of Penicillium frequentans and Epicoccum nigrum and their efficacy as biocontrol agents against brown rot disease under field conditions. The size of P. frequentans population after an application of a P. frequentans conidial formulation during the crop season is bigger than that of E. nigrum following the application of an E. nigrum conidial formulation. Moreover, applications of a P. frequentans conidial formulation during the crop season also caused a higher reduction in the number of Monilinia spp. conidia on the fruit surface than that found after applications of an E. nigrum formulation during the growing season.
Engaging Secondary School Students in Food-Related Citizenship: Achievements and Challenges of A Multi-Component Programme
Authors: Jones Mat , Dailami Narges , Weitkamp Emma , Kimberlee Richard , Salmon Debra , Orme Judy
Published: May 2012

Global food security and sustainability, animal welfare, dietary health, and socially just relations of food production have become prominent societal issues. They are of particular concern for young people as their lives progress towards becoming independent consumers and citizens with the capacity to shape food systems of the future. This paper examined the role of the Food for Life Partnership programme in promoting young people’s engagement with food-related citizenship education in secondary schools. The research consisted of a two stage study of 24 English schools. We surveyed experiences and attitudes of students and staff, and recorded programme activities. The results presented a mixed picture. Staff reports and monitoring evidence showed much successful implementation of programme activities across the whole school. However, there was less evidence of positive student behavioral change. Amongst a range of possibilities to account for the findings, one explanation is the organizational challenges of delivering a complex and ambitious programme in the secondary school setting. This suggests the need to develop food citizenship programmes that combine long term institutional reforms alongside focused interventions with specific groups of students. It also highlights the case for ensuring a place for food related citizenship on the educational policy agenda.
Smokefree Policies in Latin America and the Caribbean: Making Progress
Authors: Sebrié Ernesto M. , Schoj Verónica , Travers Mark J. , McGaw Barbara , Glantz Stanton A.
Published: May 2012

We reviewed the adoption and implementation of smokefree policies in all Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) countries. Significant progress has been achieved among LAC countries since the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) was adopted in 2005. Both national and sub-national legislation have provided effective mechanisms to increase the fraction of the population protected from secondhand tobacco smoke. Civil society has actively promoted these policies and played a main role in enacting them and monitoring their enforcement. The tobacco industry, while continuing to oppose the approval and regulation of the laws at legislative and executive levels, has gone a step further by litigating against them in the Courts. As in the US and elsewhere, this litigation has failed to stop the legislation.
Low Diversity Bacterial Community and the Trapping Activity of Metabolites from Cultivable Bacteria Species in the Female Reproductive System of the Oriental Fruit Fly, Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Shi Zhanghong , Wang Lili , Zhang Hongyu
Published: May 2012

Our goal was to identify the bacteria inhabiting the reproductive system of the female oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), and evaluate the chemotaxis of B. dorsalis to the metabolites produced by the bacteria. Based on 16S rRNA-based polymerase chain reaction-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE), 18 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were assigned to the five bacterial classes Betaproteobacteria, Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, Bacilli and Actinobacteria. Nine OTUs were assigned to Gammaproteobacteria, which was the most highly represented class. Enterobacteriaceae constituted the dominant family, and within this family, three genera and five species were identified, including Enterobacter sakazakii, Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Raoultella terrigena and Enterobacter amnigenus. In this set, the first two species were the dominant components, and the latter three species were the minor ones. Finally, we found that the metabolites produced by R. terrigena, K. oxytoca and K. pneumoniae were attractive to the B. dorsalis adults, and in field studies, B. dorsalis adults were most attracted to K. oxytoca. Collectively, our results suggest that the female reproductive system plays an important role in the transfer of enterobacteria from the gut to fruit. Our data may prompt the development of a female-targeted population control strategy for this fly.
Factors Influencing Domestic Tourism for Urban and Semiurban Populations Around Nairobi National Park, Kenya
Authors: Okello Moses Makonjio , Kenana Lekishon , Kieti Damiannah
Published: May 2012

Tourism is a very important source for foreign revenue for Kenya. But most of this revenue is from international tourists. However, international tourists cannot always support the tourism industry, especially in years of economic, political, and social turmoil. A vibrant domestic tourism
can cushion the industry from fluctuations of the international tourism market and bring stability and predictability in the industry. This study sought to address factors influencing urban and semiurban local population visitation to Nairobi National Park (NNP), and suggest ways of improving
it in Kenya. The data for this study were gathered through semistructured interviews and discussions with communities surrounding the park. The results revealed that a significant (p < 0.001) majority (66%) of the community had visited the park. About half of the people (59%) were
interested in viewing wildlife as the main recreational opportunity provided by the park. However, only less than 50% of the community had visited the park more than three times in their lifetime. The level of education influenced the likelihood of the community to visit the park and appreciate
its conservation contribution. Even though the lack of free time, lack of interest in wildlife, or the thinking that protected areas in Kenya were meant for foreign tourists, were not hindrances to local community visiting the parks, they noted that key constraints were lack of extra disposable
income, high cost of food and hospitality services inside the park for local communities, and poor marketing of parks especially targeting local Kenyans hindered high visitation rates of local Kenyans to protected areas. A large number (81%) of community members mentioned poor marketing as
the reason for low park visits. Indeed, 96% said no form of advertisement for NNP had influenced their decision to visit. Hence, there is a need for new domestic customer-oriented marketing and a more friendly hospitality services tailored to local tourists among government policy to improve
the economy to release more disposable income for leisure targeting NNP and other protected areas in Kenya.
Moving from Pilgrimage to “Dark” Tourism: Leveraging Tourism in Palestine
Authors: Isaac Rami K. , Ashworth Gregory J.
Published: May 2012

traveling to places associated with death is not a new phenomenon. People have long been drawn, purposefully or otherwise, towards sites, attractions, and events linked in one way or another with death, suffering, violence, or disaster. war-related attractions, though diverse, are a
subset of the totality of tourist sites associated with death and suffering. this article aims to assess how “dark” tourism may play a role in leveraging tourism in Palestine, which has largely relied on pilgrimage tourism in the past. this article investigates the potential for
developing this form of tourism, since Palestine has been undergoing death, suffering, violence, or disaster through political tension and instability since 1948 and arguably for a generation earlier, but has not yet developed a strategy for tourism development that considers this type of
tourism.
Les législatives de 2011 dans l'« archipel de la puissance » : prémices d'un pluralisme politique à la russe ?
Authors: Limonier Kévin
Published: May 2012

Quelques mois après les « printemps arabes », les manifestations en Russie véhiculent des représentations fortes. Spectaculaires et inédites depuis l’arrivée au pouvoir de Vladimir Poutine, ces mobilisations n’en demeurent pas moins très minoritaires à l’échelle nationale, et permettent mal de saisir l’ampleur et la nature de la contestation dont fait aujourd’hui l’objet Russie unie. En revanche, plus vaste et plus significative a été la remise en cause par la classe moyenne provinciale de la suprématie électorale du parti au pouvoir lors des législatives. Dans un pays où le niveau de vie est en hausse depuis une dizaine d’années, l’analyse de certains des territoires où se concentre cet électorat contestataire pourrait apporter d’utiles enseignements sur l’évolution du système politique russe.
La forte croissance de Plataforma per Catalunya : À l'aube d'un nouveau national-populisme en Espagne ?
Authors: Guedioura Hassen
Published: May 2012

L’Espagne ne figure plus parmi les rares pays européens à être épargnés par la vague nationale-populiste qui touche le continent depuis le début de ce millénaire. La Plataforma per Catalunya (PxC), nouveau parti d’extrême droite violemment xénophobe ou plus spécifiquement « morophobe », enregistre une forte dynamique de croissance dans un contexte marqué par l’arrivée massive de travailleurs immigrés (1,4 million en 2001, ils sont presque 6 millions en 2011 ; environ 12% de la population – INE) et une crise économique durable faisant de cet État celui où le taux de chômage est le plus élevé d’Europe (20,4% – Eurostat 2011). Ce surgissement soudain de l’extrême droite n’en reste pas moins paradoxal car on a longtemps cru que ce pays serait immunisé face à un phénomène qui a toujours été marginal depuis l’avènement de la démocratie. Aussi parce qu’il a lieu en Catalogne, région autonome qui se projette comme un espace d’immigration et d’intégration. La réussite relative de PxC est le fruit d’une stratégie de conquête territoriale s’appuyant sur un ancrage local fort et qui saura tirer parti de ce contexte nouveau. Mais elle est surtout le produit d’une savante et complexe alchimie idéologique conçue par son leader, Josep Anglada i Rius, qui va réussir à adapter le discours des nouvelles formations européennes dites « identitaires » à la singularité géopolitique espagnole et catalane.
L'extrême droite au Royaume-Uni : une réelle imprégnation idéologique dans l'espace politique et public au cours de la dernière décennie
Authors: Braouezec Kevin
Published: May 2012

La dernière décennie a marqué un changement important dans la vie politique et dans les mentalités britanniques : les partis et courants extrêmes de droite ont effectué une vraie progression électorale et ont occupé une place notable dans l’espace politique britannique. Alors qu’historiquement la culture civique britannique faisait rempart contre la pensée extrémiste, les événements des années 2000 (attentats du 11 septembre 2005, attentats de Londres en 2005, crise financière) et l’émergence de formations politiques plutôt bien organisées comme le British National Party (BNP) et l’United Kingdom Party (UKIP) ont permis cette imprégnation idéologique et électorale de la pensée extrémiste anti-immigration et antieuropéenne au Royaume-Uni. Face à la montée de l’extrême droite en Europe et à la crise économqiue qui touche le continent, la société britannique qui vient de connaître ses plus fortes émeutes depuis trente ans est donc dans un moment important de son histoire.
The German milky way: trade structure of the milk industry and possible consequences of a food crisis
Authors: Pinior B. , Platz U. , Ahrens U. , Petersen B. , Conraths F. , Selhorst T.
Published: May 2012

The aim of this paper is to analyze the structure of the trade network between milk producers, dairies and milk collection companies in Germany through a network analysis using suitable centrality measures. The study shows that structures exist among the relevant enterprises which are critical for the spread of a contamination in the German milk trade network. The results may be used to improve food security
Consumers’ values and attitudes and their relation to the consumption of pork products: a study from Q-PorkChains in Brazil
Authors: de Barcellos M.D. , Perin M.G. , Pérez-Cueto F.J.A , Saab M.S.M. , Grunert K.G.
Published: May 2012

Consumers’ attitudes and personal values were assessed, investigating if those constructs affect the consumption of pork products. Empirical data was collected through a survey performed with 482 consumers in Brazil, according to Q-PorkChains project definitions. Attitudes towards the environment and nature are quite positive, although ethnocentrism is also present. Industrial food production seems to be an accepted system, but consumers are showing that environmental sustainability must not be forgotten. Consumers with more ‘traditionalist’ values prefer fresh, whilst those with ‘adventurous’ values prefer processed pork products. The development of innovative pork products aiming to attend to these different groups represents interesting opportunities for the pork chain.
Cutting Edge: Slamf8 Is a Negative Regulator of Nox2 Activity in Macrophages
Authors: Wang Guoxing , Abadía-Molina Ana C. , Berger Scott B. , Romero Xavier , O’Keeffe Michael S. , Rojas-Barros Domingo I. , Aleman Marta , Liao Gongxian , Maganto-García Elena , Fresno Manuel , Wang Ninghai , Detre Cynthia , Terhorst Cox
Published: May 2012

Slamf8 (CD353) is a cell surface receptor that is expressed upon activation of macrophages (MΦs) by IFN-γ or bacteria. In this article, we report that a very high NADPH oxidase (Nox2) enzyme activity was found in Slamf8−/− MΦs in response to Escherichia coli or Staphylococcus aureus, as well as to PMA. The elevated Nox2 activity in Slamf8−/− MΦs was also demonstrated in E. coli or S. aureus phagosomes by using a pH indicator system and was further confirmed by a reduction in the enzyme activity after transfection of the receptor into Slamf8-deficient primary MΦs or RAW 264.7 cells. Upon exposure to bacteria or PMA, protein kinase C activity in Slamf8−/− MΦs is increased. This results in an enhanced phosphorylation of p40phox, one key component of the Nox2 enzyme complex, which, in turn, leads to greater Nox2 activity. Taken together, the data show that, in response to inflammation-associated stimuli, the inducible receptor Slamf8 negatively regulates inflammatory responses.
B Cell Receptor-ERK1/2 Signal Cancels PAX5-Dependent Repression of BLIMP1 through PAX5 Phosphorylation: A Mechanism of Antigen-Triggering Plasma Cell Differentiation
Authors: Yasuda Takahiko , Hayakawa Fumihiko , Kurahashi Shingo , Sugimoto Keiki , Minami Yosuke , Tomita Akihiro , Naoe Tomoki
Published: May 2012

Plasma cell differentiation is initiated by Ag stimulation of BCR. Until BCR stimulation, B lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1 (BLIMP1), a master regulator of plasma cell differentiation, is suppressed by PAX5, which is a key transcriptional repressor for maintaining B cell identity. After BCR stimulation, upregulation of BLIMP1 and subsequent suppression of PAX5 by BLIMP1 are observed and thought to be the trigger of plasma cell differentiation; however, the trigger that derepresses BLIMP1 expression is yet to be revealed. In this study, we demonstrated PAX5 phosphorylation by ERK1/2, the main component of the BCR signal. Transcriptional repression on BLIMP1 promoter by PAX5 was canceled by PAX5 phosphorylation. BCR stimulation induced ERK1/2 activation, phosphorylation of endogenous PAX5, and upregulation of BLIMP1 mRNA expression in B cells. These phenomena were inhibited by MEK1 inhibitor or the phosphorylation-defective mutation of PAX5. These data imply that PAX5 phosphorylation by the BCR signal is the initial event in plasma cell differentiation.
Enhanced Anti-Serpin Antibody Activity Inhibits Autoimmune Inflammation in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Czyzyk Jan , Henegariu Octavian , Preston-Hurlburt Paula , Baldzizhar Raman , Fedorchuk Christine , Esplugues Enric , Bottomly Kim , Gorus Frans K. , Herold Kevan , Flavell Richard A.
Published: May 2012

Intracellular (clade B) OVA-serpin protease inhibitors play an important role in tissue homeostasis by protecting cells from death in response to hypo-osmotic stress, heat shock, and other stimuli. It is not known whether these serpins influence immunological tolerance and the risk for autoimmune diseases. We found that a fraction of young autoimmune diabetes-prone NOD mice had elevated levels of autoantibodies against a member of clade B family known as serpinB13. High levels of anti-serpinB13 Abs were accompanied by low levels of anti-insulin autoantibodies, reduced numbers of islet-associated T cells, and delayed onset of diabetes. Exposure to anti-serpinB13 mAb alone also decreased islet inflammation, and coadministration of this reagent and a suboptimal dose of anti-CD3 mAb accelerated recovery from diabetes. In a fashion similar to that discovered in the NOD model, a deficiency in humoral activity against serpinB13 was associated with early onset of human type 1 diabetes. These findings suggest that, in addition to limiting exposure to proteases within the cell, clade B serpins help to maintain homeostasis by inducing protective humoral immunity.
Successful Treatment of Leuconostoc Bacteremia in a Neutropenic Patient with Tigecycline
Authors: Patel Trupti , Molloy Aoife , Smith Robin , Balakrishnan Indran
Published: May 2012

Leuconostoc lactis is a recognised cause of infection in immunocompromised hosts. It is intrinsically resistant to multiple antibiotics and treatment options may be limited. We report the safe and effective use of tigecycline in the treatment of Leuconostoc catheter-related line sepsis in a neutropenic patient. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of successful use of tigecycline for Leuconostoc bacteremia.
Anomalous statistics of aftershock sequences generated by supershear ruptures
Authors: Bhattacharya Pathikrit , Shcherbakov Robert , Tiampo Kristy F. , Mansinha Lalu
Published: May 2012

Most earthquake ruptures propagate with speeds smaller than the Rayleigh wave velocity of the medium. These are called sub- Rayleigh ruptures. However, under suitable conditions, segments of otherwise sub- Rayleigh seismogenic ruptures can occasionally accelerate to speeds higher than the local shear wave velocity, giving rise to so-called supershear ruptures. The occurrence of supershear ruptures is usually associated with a locally higher value of pre-stress on the fault segment compared to the sub-Rayleigh segments of the same fault. Additionally, shear stress changes generated by the supershear rupture are radiated out unattenuated to distances comparable to the depth of rupture instead of rapidly decaying at much smaller distances from the rupture. This leads to aftershocks being distributed away from the fault on the supershear segment. This study attempts to verify whether these pre- and postseismic stress conditions and the resultant spatial aftershock distributions lead to discernible features in the statistical properties of the aftershock sequences of the earthquakes known to be associated with supershear ruptures. We analyze the Gutenberg-Richter scaling, the modified Omori law and Båth’s law for the aftershock sequences of two supershear mainshocks: the 1979 MW 6.5 Imperial Valley (California) and 2002 MW 7.9 Denali (Alaska) earthquakes. We observe that the b-value is always higher in the supershear zone than the rest of the sequence. We also observe that there is no systematic trend in the exponent of the modified Omori law when comparing the aftershocks in the supershear zone with the rest of the aftershocks. We argue that the b-value anomaly can be explained in terms of the off-fault distribution of aftershocks around the supershear segment of the rupture.