bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auditory modulation of oscillatory activity in extra-striate visual cortex and its contribution to audio–visual multisensory integration: A human intracranial EEG study
Authors: Mercier Manuel R. , Foxe John J. , Fiebelkorn Ian C. , Butler John S. , Schwartz Theodore H. , Molholm Sophie
Published: November 2012

Investigations have traditionally focused on activity in the sensory cortices as a function of their respective sensory inputs. However, converging evidence from multisensory research has shown that neural activity in a given sensory region can be modulated by stimulation of other so-called ancillary sensory systems. Both electrophysiology and functional imaging support the occurrence of multisensory processing in human sensory cortex based on the latency of multisensory effects and their precise anatomical localization. Still, due to inherent methodological limitations, direct evidence of the precise mechanisms by which multisensory integration occurs within human sensory cortices is lacking. Using intracranial recordings in epileptic patients () undergoing presurgical evaluation, we investigated the neurophysiological basis of multisensory integration in visual cortex. Subdural electrical brain activity was recorded while patients performed a simple detection task of randomly ordered Auditory alone (A), Visual alone (V) and Audio–Visual stimuli (AV). We then performed time-frequency analysis: first we investigated each condition separately to evaluate responses compared to baseline, then we indexed multisensory integration using both the maximum criterion model (AV vs. V) and the additive model (AV vs. A+V). Our results show that auditory input significantly modulates neuronal activity in visual cortex by resetting the phase of ongoing oscillatory activity. This in turn leads to multisensory integration when auditory and visual stimuli are simultaneously presented.
The critical role of experience in the early development of multisensory perception
Authors: Lewkowicz David J.
Published: November 2012

Human infancy is a time of rapid neural and behavioral development and multisensory perceptual skills emerge during this time. Both animal and human early deprivation studies have shown that experience contributes critically to the development of multisensory perception. Unfortunately, Bodison because the human deprivation studies have only studied adult responsiveness, little is known about the more immediate effects of early experience on multisensory development. Consequently, we have embarked on a program of research to investigate how early experience affects the development of multisensory perception in human infants. To do so, we have focused on multisensory perceptual narrowing, an experience-dependent process where initially broad perceptual tuning is narrowed to match the infant’s native environment. In this talk, I first review our work demonstrating that multisensory narrowing characterizes infants’ response to non-native (i.e., monkey) faces and voices, that the initially broad tuning is present at birth, that narrowing also occurs in the audiovisual speech domain, and that multisensory narrowing is an evolutionarily novel process. In the second part of the talk, I present findings from our most recent studies indicating that experience has a seemingly paradoxical effect on infant response to audio–visual synchrony, that experience narrows infant response to amodal language and intonational prosody cues, and that experience interacts with developmental changes in selective attention during the first year of life resulting in dramatic developmental shifts in human infants’ selective attention to the eyes and mouth of their interlocutors’ talking faces.
Multisensory hand representations in early life
Authors: Bremner Andrew J. , van Velzen José , Rigato Silvia
Published: November 2012

Research into perceptual and cognitive development has, with notable exceptions, neglected both multisensory processes, and embodied representations. In an attempt to address these issues, I will describe our programme of research tracing the early development of multisensory representations of the hand. I will mention several studies currently being conducted in our lab, including investigations of: (i) the emergence of multisensory processes in hand localisation and ownership in early childhood, (ii) the development of categorical representation of the hand as a discrete body part, (iii) the representation of the location of tactile stimuli on the hand. I will focus mainly on the last of these investigations, relating both behavioural and physiological measures of infants’ and young children’s emerging abilities to use multisensory information to locate the hand and stimuli applied to it across changes in arm posture.
Synaesthesia and the SNARC effect
Authors: Jonas Clare
Published: November 2012

In number-form synaesthesia, numbers become explicitly mapped onto portions of space in the mind’s eye or around the body. However, non-synaesthetes are also known to map number onto space, though in an implicit way. For example, those who are literate in a language that is written in a left-to-right direction are likely to assign small numbers to the left side of space and large numbers to the right side of space (e.g., Dehaene et al., 1993). In non-synaesthetes, this mapping is flexible (e.g., numbers map onto a circular form if the participant is primed to do so by the appearance of a clock-face), which has been interpreted as a response to task demands (e.g., Bächtold et al., 1998) or as evidence of a linguistically-mediated, rather than a direct, link between number and space (e.g., Proctor and Cho, 2006). We investigated whether synaesthetes’ number forms show the same flexibility during an odd-or-even judgement task that tapped linguistic associations between number and space (following Gevers et al., 2010). Synaesthetes and non-synaesthetes alike mapped small numbers to the verbal label ‘left’ and large numbers to the verbal label ‘right’. This surprising result may indicate that synaesthetes’ number forms are also the result of a linguistic link between number and space, instead of a direct link between the two, or that performance on tasks such as these is not mediated by the number form.
Mirror-touch synaesthesia and broader social perception abilities
Authors: Banissy Michael
Published: November 2012

In this talk, I will describe findings on a newly documented variant of synaesthesia in which the synaesthete experiences tactile sensations on their own body simply when observing touch to another person (mirror-touch synaesthesia). Functional brain imaging indicates that mirror-touch synaesthesia is linked to heightened neural activity in the same network of brain regions activated by us all when observing touch to others (shared-touch network). This network of brain regions has been suggested to play an important role in our social perception abilities by enabling us to map the experiences of others onto the same sensorimotor representations that are active when we experience the same state. Here, I will describe studies examining the relationship between mirror-touch synaesthesia and broader social perception abilities (e.g., empathy, emotion processing). I will discuss findings indicating that mirror-touch synaesthesia is linked to superior emotion perception and discuss the implications of this for models of social perception.
Materiality and Spiritual Economies in Premodern Japanese Buddhism: A Problem in Historical Change
Authors: Amstutz Galen
Published: November 2012

Abstract

The recent emphasis on materiality in religion has encouraged a good deal of attention to materiality in Buddhism, but that attention has fallen entirely on Buddhist traditions with conventional monastic orientations. Yet the major Japanese Buddhist school known as True Pure Land Buddhism (Jōdo Shinshū) has also historically possessed a highly important, if different, material dimension, for which one touchpoint has been its merchant members called Ōmi shōnin who flourished in later premodern Japanese history. After alluding to the difficulty of isolating the ‘material’ in any religious culture, the article sketches the transition in Christian materialities in Europe which marked a cognitive shift from medieval modes of thinking (exteriorized, animistic-monistic, oriented to relics and ancestor religion) towards modern modes (interiorized, oriented to abstraction and the psychological individual). Against that paradigm, almost all premodern Buddhist materialities, including those in Japan, can be seen as medieval in nature. However, Jōdo Shinshū was a departure employing an innovatively interiorized doctrine. From that perspective, both Europe and Japan were highly complex civilizations displaying a long-term medieval-to-modern shift, which impacted the material manifestations of religions by gradually replacing older economies of ritual exchange with more modern-looking economies of preaching, religious publication and commercial life. Western scholarship has resisted appreciating these issues in an Asian setting.
Religion, Hybrid Forms, and Cultural Chauvinism in Japan
Authors: Dessì Ugo
Published: November 2012

Abstract

This article analyzes a few selected case studies from different religious traditions in contemporary Japan to illustrate, first, the active role played by religion in Japan in the creation of hybrid forms and, secondly, the potentiality in two instances to promote cultural chauvinism. The topics explored here are Japanese Buddhism and the issue of human rights, Shintō’s self-representation as a ‘religion of the forest,’ and Kōfuku no Kagaku’s adoption of Theosophical themes. The discourse of human rights found in traditions such as Jōdo Shinshū, Jōdoshū, and Sōtōshū shows how this western idea is made to resonate with religious concepts from the Buddhist tradition, thus making possible a reshaping of local religious identities. While in this case the catalyst in the process is provided by an external source, the recent reshaping of Shintō as a ‘religion of the forest’ may be characterized as a glocalization leaning to ‘native’ sources, in which the ‘native’ religious tradition is subject to a creative reading following the worldwide growing awareness of ecology. Here a tendency to emphasize the superiority of the ‘native’ culture may also be noticed. However, as the case of Kōfuku no Kagaku’s adoption of various Theosophical themes illustrates, also glocalization leaning to external sources may be accompanied by forms of cultural chauvinism.
Determinants of FDI in South Asia: Role of Infrastructure, Trade Openness and Reforms
Authors: Sahoo Pravakar
Published: November 2012

The Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) environment underwent a sea change in South Asian countries during the 1990s, and more so in recent years. Though FDI inflows to South Asian countries have witnessed increasing trends, FDI inflow is still relatively low. In this context, the paper examines the determinants of FDI for South Asian countries with emphasis on infrastructure development, trade openness and reforms. The results reveal that major determinants of FDI in South Asia are market size, labor force, infrastructure stock, trade openness and economic reforms. Further, the panel causality analysis shows that there is a strong relationship between infrastructure development and FDI inflows. Therefore, the South Asian countries need to maintain their growth momentum, improve infrastructure facilities, frame policies for better use of abundant labor force and continue economic reforms with focus on trade policies to attract more FDI.
The White Industries award – Shades of Grey
Authors: Sanan Manu
Published: November 2012

This article is a preface to India’s first engagement with investor-state dispute settlement – White Industries v. Republic of India. Notwithstanding its systemic implications at various levels, the award has left a denting comment on the functioning of the Indian judiciary – the workings of which were a principle point of challenge. The current piece attempts to trace the delicate line defining India’s investment obligations, the functioning of its courts and the extant relation between ‘denial of justice’ and ‘effective means’ as under India’s bilateral investment obligations. The article is divided into three principal sections – the first introduces India’s experience with investment arbitration and its bilateral investment agenda, the second is a contextual overview of acknowledged global standards of protection under transnational law and third discusses the White Industries arbitration - analyzing the legal contest therein and its outcome.
The Chinese Legionaries at the Western Frontier: The Military Role of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, 1960-1975
Authors: Cai Yuan
Published: November 2012

Abstract

The Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC) is an important paramilitary organization in Xinjiang with the mandate of checking the Uyghur independence movement. However, in the past the XPCC also played an important military role as a strategic reserve force for the defence of Xinjiang, especially during the period of Sino-Soviet confrontation. This paper examines available documentary and archival materials on the national defence role played by the XPCC during the height of the Sino-Soviet split, especially with reference to the XPCC militia and frontier farms.
Dilute nitride and GaAs n-i-p-i solar cells
Authors: Mazzucato Simone , Royall Benjamin , Ketlhwaafetse Richard , Balkan Naci , Salmi Joel , Puustinen Janne , Guina Mircea , Smith Andy , Gwilliam Russell
Published: November 2012

We demonstrate for the first time the operation of GaInNAs and GaAs n-i-p-i doping solar cells with ion-implanted selective contacts. Multiple layers of alternate doping are grown by molecular beam epitaxy to form the n-i-p-i structure. After growth, vertical selective contacts are fabricated by Mg and Si ion implantation, followed by rapid thermal annealing treatment and fabrication into circular mesa cells. As means of characterisation, spectral response and illuminated current–voltage (I-V) were measured on the samples. The spectral response suggests that all horizontal layers are able to contribute to the photocurrent. Performance of the devices is discussed with interest in the n-i-p-i structure as a possible design for the GaInP/GaAs/GaInNAs tandem solar cell.
Unique and Universal Barriers: Hospice Care for Aging Adults with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Friedman Sandra L. , Helm David T. , Woodman Ashley C.
Published: November 2012

As life expectancy of people with intellectual disability (ID) has increased, there has been a concurrent increase in age-related illnesses and conditions similar to that of the general population. These circumstances result in people with ID dying from typical life-ending conditions, and thus, they require similar end-of-life services such as palliative and hospice care. Although there are notable barriers to hospice for all, people with ID face additional challenges in accessing the benefits of these services. This article presents a review of the literature on these issues, underscoring the multiple challenges and the importance of a more collaborative approach between hospice and palliative care workers with people with ID, their families, and other important stakeholders.
Radical intermediates of low temperature radiolysis of di-tert-butylcyclohexano-18-crown-6/1-octanol extractant
Authors: Zakurdaeva O. A. , Nesterov S. V. , Feldman V. I.
Published: November 2012

Intermediates of low temperature (77 K) X-rays radiolysis of 1-octanol and di-tert-butylcyclohexano-18-crown-6 solutions in 1-octanol were studied by ESR spectroscopy. Hydroxyalkyl CH3(CH2)6C•HOH and interior-type alkyl R1C•HR2OH radicals were found to be main paramagnetic products stabilized in 1-octanol irradiated at 77 K. In addition to abovementioned radicals, macrocyclic –O–CH2–C•H– and acyclic –C•H–C(H)=O radicals produced from crown ether were identified in irradiated 1.0 M DtBuCH18C6 solution in octanol. No deviation in radiation-chemical yield of the stabilized acyclic radicals from the value expected in accord with “additive” rule was observed in the latter case. It was supposed that macrocycle cleavage in DtBuCH18C6 occurred at early stages of radiolysis rather than in secondary radical reactions between products of 1-octanol radiolysis and crown ether. Meanwhile, alkyl radicals formed from 1-octanol can react with crown ether, resulting in formation of macrocyclic products of radiolysis.
Speciation of Am(III)/Eu(III) sorbed on γ-alumina: effect of metal ion concentration
Authors: Kumar S. , Godbole S. V. , Tomar B. S.
Published: November 2012

The present paper describes the speciation of Am(III)/Eu(III) sorbed on γ-alumina, and its evolution with changing metal ion concentration, studied using batch sorption experiment, time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS), extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) and surface Complexation modeling (SCM). Though numerous studies exist in the literature on the speciation of trivalent actinides and lanthanides on alumina surface, the mechanism of sorption at high metal ion concentrations is not yet fully understood. Batch sorption experiments of Am(III) on γ-alumina under varying condition of pH (3–10), ionic strength (0.005–0.1 M NaClO4) and metal ion concentration (10−7–10−4 M) were performed. Higher metal ion concentration was achieved by the addition of Eu(III) considering it as an analogue of Am(III). Time resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS) study of Eu(III) sorbed on γ-alumina at the metal ion concentration of 5.0 × 10−5 M was carried out over pH 4 to 7. TRFS showed the presence of two surface species, with distinctly different fluorescence decay life times. The shorter lifetime value and its changing pattern with pH indicate the surface species corresponding to this component to be monodentate species >AlOAm2+ and its hydrolyzed forms. The sorbed Eu3+ species corresponding to the longer lifetime value has 2–3 water molecules in its first coordination sphere and is multidentate in its binding on alumina surface. Extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) measurement of Eu:γ-Al2O3 sorption systems at pH 6.18 and 7.15 corroborate the existence of two surface complexes. Further it suggests the edge sharing bidentate binding of Eu on AlO6 octahedra as the co-ordination mode of the higher lifetime component. Surface Complexation Modeling (SCM) of Am(III)/Eu(III) sorption onto γ-alumina at pH ≤ 7 has been carried out using these two surface species. 2-pK surface complexation modeling coupled with constant capacitance model for surface charge, revealed monodentate surface speciation as the predominant species at 10−7–10−6 M, while at 10−5 M, above pH 5.5, bidentate surface species starts to compete with monodentate speciation, and becomes the predominant surface species of Am(III)/Eu(III) on alumina surface at 10−4 M.
The Relationship Between Long-Range Chromatin Occupancy and Polymerization of theDrosophilaETS Family Transcriptional Repressor Yan
Authors: Webber Jemma L , Zhang Jie , Cote Lauren , Vivekanand Pavithra , Ni Xiaochun , Zhou Jie , Nègre Nicolas , Carthew Richard W , White Kevin P , Rebay Ilaria
Published: November 2012

ETS family transcription factors are evolutionarily conserved downstream effectors of Ras/MAPK signaling with critical roles in development and cancer. In Drosophila, the ETS repressor Yan regulates cell proliferation and differentiation in a variety of tissues; however, the mechanisms of Yan-mediated repression are not well understood and only a few direct target genes have been identified. Yan, like its human ortholog TEL1, self-associates through an N-terminal sterile α-motif (SAM), leading to speculation that Yan/TEL1 polymers may spread along chromatin to form large repressive domains. To test this hypothesis, we created a monomeric form of Yan by recombineering a point mutation that blocks SAM-mediated self-association into the yan genomic locus and compared its genome-wide chromatin occupancy profile to that of endogenous wild-type Yan. Consistent with the spreading model predictions, wild-type Yan-bound regions span multiple kilobases. Extended occupancy patterns appear most prominent at genes encoding crucial developmental regulators and signaling molecules and are highly conserved between Drosophila melanogaster and D. virilis, suggesting functional relevance. Surprisingly, although occupancy is reduced, the Yan monomer still makes extensive multikilobase contacts with chromatin, with an overall pattern similar to that of wild-type Yan. Despite its near-normal chromatin recruitment, the repressive function of the Yan monomer is significantly impaired, as evidenced by elevated target gene expression and failure to rescue a yan null mutation. Together our data argue that SAM-mediated polymerization contributes to the functional output of the active Yan repressive complexes that assemble across extended stretches of chromatin, but does not directly mediate recruitment to DNA or chromatin spreading.
Transposing from the Laboratory to the Classroom to Generate Authentic Research Experiences for Undergraduates
Authors: Burnette James M , Wessler Susan R
Published: November 2012

Large lecture classes and standardized laboratory exercises are characteristic of introductory biology courses. Previous research has found that these courses do not adequately convey the process of scientific research and the excitement of discovery. Here we propose a model that provides beginning biology students with an inquiry-based, active learning laboratory experience. The Dynamic Genome course replicates a modern research laboratory focused on eukaryotic transposable elements where beginning undergraduates learn key genetics concepts, experimental design, and molecular biological skills. Here we report on two key features of the course, a didactic module and the capstone original research project. The module is a modified version of a published experiment where students experience how virtual transposable elements from rice (Oryza sativa) are assayed for function in transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana. As part of the module, students analyze the phenotypes and genotypes of transgenic plants to determine the requirements for transposition. After mastering the skills and concepts, students participate in an authentic research project where they use computational analysis and PCR to detect transposable element insertion site polymorphism in a panel of diverse maize strains. As a consequence of their engagement in this course, students report large gains in their ability to understand the nature of research and demonstrate that they can apply that knowledge to independent research projects.
The Oncology Acuity Tool: A Reliable, Valid Method for Measuring Patient Acuity for Nurse Assignment Decisions
Authors: Brennan Caitlin W. , Daly Barbara J. , Dawson Neal V. , Higgins Patricia A. , Jones Katherine R. , Madigan Elizabeth , Van Der Meulen Jeffrey
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose: Matching nurse assignments with patient acuity has critical implications for providing safe, effective, and efficient care. Despite this, we lack well-established methods for accurate assessment of acuity. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Oncology Acuity Tool (OAT), which is used for determining nurse assignments. Methods: Inter-rater reliability and concurrent validity were assessed via surveys of current users of the tool. Content validity data were collected from expert oncology nurses. Predictive validity was assessed by tracking patients who sustained either of two acute events. Results: Findings included high inter-rater reliability, moderately strong concurrent validity, and moderate content validity. Acuity significantly predicted rapid response team consults but not falls. Conclusions: The OAT demonstrated sufficient reliability and validity for measuring acuity prospectively in this population.
Adsorptive removal of sulfonamide antibiotics in livestock urine using the high-silica zeolite HSZ-385
Authors: Fukahori S. , Fujiwara T. , Funamizu N. , Matsukawa K. , Ito R.
Published: November 2012

The adsorptive removal of seven sulfonamide antibiotics using the high-silica zeolite HSZ-385 from distilled water, synthetic urine and real porcine urine was investigated. The pH greatly affected the adsorption efficiency, and the amounts of all sulfonamide antibiotics adsorbed on HSZ-385 decreased at alkaline conditions compared with that at neutral conditions. During storage, the pH and ammonium-ion concentration increased with urea hydrolysis for porcine urine. We clarified that the adsorption efficiency of sulfonamides in synthetic urine was equivalent to that in distilled water, suggesting that adsorption behavior was not affected by coexistent ions. HSZ-385 could adsorb sulfonamide antibiotics in real porcine urine even though the non-purgeable organic carbon concentration of porcine urine was 4–7 g/L and was two orders of magnitude higher than those of sulfonamides (10 mg/L each). Moreover, the adsorption of sulfonamides reached equilibrium within 15 min, suggesting that HSZ-385 is a promising adsorbent for removing sulfonamides from porcine urine.
Designing monitoring programs for chemicals of emerging concern in potable reuse – what to include and what not to include?
Authors: Drewes J. E. , Anderson P. , Denslow N. , Olivieri A. , Schlenk D. , Snyder S. A. , Maruya K. A.
Published: November 2012

This study discussed a proposed process to prioritize chemicals for reclaimed water monitoring programs, selection of analytical methods required for their quantification, toxicological relevance of chemicals of emerging concern regarding human health, and related issues. Given that thousands of chemicals are potentially present in reclaimed water and that information about those chemicals is rapidly evolving, a transparent, science-based framework was developed to guide prioritization of which compounds of emerging concern (CECs) should be included in reclaimed water monitoring programs. The recommended framework includes four steps: (1) compile environmental concentrations (e.g., measured environmental concentration or MEC) of CECs in the source water for reuse projects; (2) develop a monitoring trigger level (MTL) for each of these compounds (or groups thereof) based on toxicological relevance; (3) compare the environmental concentration (e.g., MEC) to the MTL; CECs with a MEC/MTL ratio greater than 1 should be prioritized for monitoring, compounds with a ratio less than ‘1’ should only be considered if they represent viable treatment process performance indicators; and (4) screen the priority list to ensure that a commercially available robust analytical method is available for that compound.
An adaptive framework to differentiate receiving water quality impacts on a multi-scale level
Authors: Blumensaat F. , Tränckner J. , Helm B. , Kroll S. , Dirckx G. , Krebs P.
Published: November 2012

The paradigm shift in recent years towards sustainable and coherent water resources management on a river basin scale has changed the subject of investigations to a multi-scale problem representing a great challenge for all actors participating in the management process. In this regard, planning engineers often face an inherent conflict to provide reliable decision support for complex questions with a minimum of effort. This trend inevitably increases the risk to base decisions upon uncertain and unverified conclusions. This paper proposes an adaptive framework for integral planning that combines several concepts (flow balancing, water quality monitoring, process modelling, multi-objective assessment) to systematically evaluate management strategies for water quality improvement. As key element, an S/P matrix is introduced to structure the differentiation of relevant ‘pressures’ in affected regions, i.e. ‘spatial units’, which helps in handling complexity. The framework is applied to a small, but typical, catchment in Flanders, Belgium. The application to the real-life case shows: (1) the proposed approach is adaptive, covers problems of different spatial and temporal scale, efficiently reduces complexity and finally leads to a transparent solution; and (2) water quality and emission-based performance evaluation must be done jointly as an emission-based performance improvement does not necessarily lead to an improved water quality status, and an assessment solely focusing on water quality criteria may mask non-compliance with emission-based standards. Recommendations derived from the theoretical analysis have been put into practice.
Smoking Is Associated With Reduced Risk of Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults Contrasting With Increased Risk in Overweight Men With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rasouli Bahareh , Grill Valdemar , Midthjell Kristian , Ahlbom Anders , Andersson Tomas , Carlsson Sofia
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between smoking habits and risk of autoimmune diabetes in adults and of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used data from the three surveys of the Nord-Trøndelag Health Study, spanning 1984–2008 and including a cohort of 90,819 Norwegian men (48%) and women (52%) aged ≥20 years. Incident cases of diabetes were identified by questionnaire and classified as type 2 diabetes (n = 1,860) and autoimmune diabetes (n = 140) based on antibodies to glutamic decarboxylase (GADA) and age at onset of diabetes. Hazard ratios (HRs) adjusted for confounders were estimated by Cox proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS

The risk of autoimmune diabetes was reduced by 48% (HR 0.52 [95% CI 0.30–0.89]) in current smokers and 58% in heavy smokers (0.42 [0.18–0.98]). The reduced risk was positively associated with number of pack-years. Heavy smoking was associated with lower levels of GADA (P = 0.001) and higher levels of C-peptide (964 vs. 886 pmol/L; P = 0.03). In contrast, smoking was associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, restricted to overweight men (1.33 [1.10–1.61]). Attributable proportion due to an interaction between overweight and heavy smoking was estimated to 0.40 (95% CI 0.23–0.57).

CONCLUSIONS

In this epidemiological study, smoking is associated with a reduced risk of autoimmune diabetes, possibly linked to an inhibitory effect on the autoimmune process. An increased risk of type 2 diabetes was restricted to overweight men.
Sex Differences in the Association Between Serum Ferritin and Fasting Glucose in Type 2 Diabetes Among South Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, and Ethnic Dutch
Authors: Dekker Louise H. , Nicolaou Mary , van der A Daphne L. , Busschers Wim B. , Brewster Lizzy M. , Snijder Marieke B. , Stronks Karien , van Valkengoed Irene G.M.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE

Moderately elevated iron stores below the levels commonly associated with hemochromatosis have been implicated in the etiology of diabetes. Studies suggest that iron status (measured by serum ferritin) differs significantly according to sex, but inconsistent findings have been reported. Our aim is to test the association between serum ferritin and the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and fasting glucose concentrations in a population-based, multiethnic, cross-sectional study including men and women of African Surinamese, South Asian Surinamese, and ethnic Dutch origin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data on 508 ethnic Dutch, 597 African Surinamese, and 339 South Asian Surinamese aged 35–60 years. Type 2 diabetes was defined as a fasting plasma glucose level ≥7.0 mmol/L or a self-reported diagnosis.

RESULTS

Serum ferritin was positively associated with type 2 diabetes and fasting glucose, but differences in the associations according to sex were observed. Serum ferritin concentration was positively associated with type 2 diabetes among women in all ethnic groups (odds ratio [OR] ethnic Dutch: 1.07 [95% CI 1.01–1.13]; OR South Asian Surinamese: 1.05 [1.00–1.10]; OR African Surinamese: 1.05 [1.01–1.10]), but not among men. Serum ferritin was also more strongly associated with fasting glucose in women than in men. Moreover, the magnitude of sex differences in the association between serum ferritin and fasting glucose, but not type 2 diabetes, was more pronounced in the African Surinamese group than in the other ethnic groups (P for interaction ≤0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a positive association between serum ferritin and type 2 diabetes and fasting glucose in our multiethnic population, which appeared stronger among women than men. Further evaluation of the variation in sex differences between ethnic groups is warranted, particularly among the African Surinamese, to understand the mechanisms behind these sex differences.
Translational strategies in peripheral neuroinflammation and neurovascular repair
Authors: Ubogu Eroboghene
Published: November 2012

Current therapies for immune-mediated inflammatory disorders in peripheral nerves are non-specific, and partly efficacious. Peripheral nerve regeneration following axonal degeneration or injury is suboptimal, with current therapies focused on modulating the underlying etiology and treating the consequences, such as neuropathic pain and weakness. Despite significant advances in understanding mechanisms of peripheral nerve inflammation, as well as axonal degeneration and regeneration, there has been limited translation into effective new drugs for these disorders. A major limitation in the field has been the unavailability of reliable disease models or research tools that mimic some key essential features of these human conditions. A relatively overlooked aspect of peripheral nerve regeneration has been neurovascular repair required to restore the homeostatic microenvironment necessary for normal function. Using Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP) as examples of human acute and chronic immune-mediated peripheral neuroinflammatory disorders respectively, we have performed detailed studies in representative mouse models to demonstrate essential features of the human disorders. These models are important tools to develop and test treatment strategies using realistic outcomes measures applicable to affected patients. In vitro models of the human blood-nerve barrier using endothelial cells derived by endoneurial microvessels provide insights into pro-inflammatory leukocyte-endothelial cell interactions relevant to peripheral neuroinflammation, as well as potential mediators and signaling pathways required for vascular proliferation, angiogenesis, remodeling and tight junction specialization necessary to restore peripheral nerve function following injury. This review discusses some of the progress being made in translational peripheral neurobiology and some future
Tenomodulin Inhibits Retinal Neovascularization in a Mouse Model of Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Zhongqiu , Sato Tatsuhiko , Oshima Yusuke
Published: November 2012

We aimed to determine the anti-angiogenic effect of tenomodulin (TeM) on retinal neovascularization in an oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) mouse model. OIR was induced in C57BL/6 mice by exposing seven-day-old mice to 75% oxygen for five days followed by room air for five days. Control mice were exposed to room air from birth until postnatal day 17. Mice received intravitreal injections of 1 μg of TeM in one eye and PBS in the contralateral eye at P7 before being exposed to 75% oxygen. Eyes were collected at postnatal day 17. Retinal blood vessel patterns were visualized by fluorescein angiography. We quantified the number of neovascular nuclei that were present beyond the inner limiting membrane (ILM) using histological methods with a masked approach. Furthermore, double immunohistochemical staining of TeM was performed on retinas to identify nuclei protruding into the vitreous cavity. Western blot was used to detect exogenous TeM protein. The central nonperfusion area (NPA, mm2) of TeM-injected eyes was significantly different from that of OIR and PBS-injected eyes, and the number of nuclei in new blood vessels breaking through the ILM in each retinal cross-section significantly differed from that of OIR eyes and PBS-injected control eyes. Cellular nuclei of new blood vessels protruding into the vitreous cavity were also observed in TeM-injected retinas by immunohistochemistry. Western blotting revealed a 16-kDa immunoreactive protein, indicating incorporation of an exogenous TeM fragment into the retina. Our data shows that TeM can effectively inhibit pathological angiogenesis in mouse eyes; indicating its potential role in prevention and treatment of ocular neovascularization.
Developing a Prototype System for Integrating Pharmacogenomics Findings into Clinical Practice
Authors: Overby Casey Lynnette , Tarczy-Hornoch Peter , Kalet Ira J. , Thummel Kenneth E. , Smith Joe W. , Fiol Guilherme Del , Fenstermacher David , Devine Emily Beth
Published: November 2012

Findings from pharmacogenomics (PGx) studies have the potential to be applied to individualize drug therapy to improve efficacy and reduce adverse drug events. Researchers have identified factors influencing uptake of genomics in medicine, but little is known about the specific technical barriers to incorporating PGx into existing clinical frameworks. We present the design and development of a prototype PGx clinical decision support (CDS) system that builds on existing clinical infrastructure and incorporates semi-active and active CDS. Informing this work, we updated previous evaluations of PGx knowledge characteristics, and of how the CDS capabilities of three local clinical systems align with data and functional requirements for PGx CDS. We summarize characteristics of PGx knowledge and technical needs for implementing PGx CDS within existing clinical frameworks. PGx decision support rules derived from FDA drug labels primarily involve drug metabolizing genes, vary in maturity, and the majority support the post-analytic phase of genetic testing. Computerized provider order entry capabilities are key functional requirements for PGx CDS and were best supported by one of the three systems we evaluated. We identified two technical needs when building on this system, the need for (1) new or existing standards for data exchange to connect clinical data to PGx knowledge, and (2) a method for implementing semi-active CDS. Our analyses enhance our understanding of principles for designing and implementing CDS for drug therapy individualization and our current understanding of PGx characteristics in a clinical context. Characteristics of PGx knowledge and capabilities of current clinical systems can help govern decisions about CDS implementation, and can help guide decisions made by groups that develop and maintain knowledge resources such that delivery of content for clinical care is supported.
To Die a Living Death: Phantasms of Burial and Cremation in Derrida’s Final Seminar
Authors: Naas Michael
Published: November 2012

In the Third Session of his seminar The Beast and the Sovereign, Volume 2, Jacques Derrida turns from a close reading of Heidegger’s 1929–1930 seminar on The Fundamental Concepts of Metaphysics and Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe—the two books at the center of the seminar—to the question of what it means for a large and growing number of people in the Western world to have to decide, in a seemingly sovereign fashion, about how their bodies are to be treated after their deaths, that is, whether they are to be buried or cremated. This question marks a rather surprising turn to the present—even the autobiographical—in the seminar. This essay follows Derrida’s treatment of the question in the rest of the seminar. It considers, first, what Derrida calls the phantasms attendant upon all speculations regarding this supposedly binary alternative between inhumation and creation and then what this alternative might tell us about Greco-European modernity and certain modern conceptions of the subject and the subject’s putative autonomy and sovereignty over its life, its body, and its remains.
MO-TRIBES for the Optimal Design of Analog Filters
Authors: Fakhfakh Mourad , Siarry Patrick
Published: November 2012

The authors present the use of swarm intelligence in the analog design field. MO-TRIBES, which is an adaptive user-parameter less version of the multi-objective particle swarm optimization technique, is applied for the optimal design of a versatile building block, namely a CMOS current conveyor transconductance amplifier (CCTA). The optimized CCTA is used for the design of a universal filter. Good reached results are highlighted via SPICE simulations, and are compared to the theoretical ones. The use of such adaptive optimization algorithm is of great interest in the analog circuit design, as it is highlighted in this chapter.
Research of Supply Quality Control and Optimization Under Multi-Period Dynamic Game
Authors: Hu Jun , Fei Yulian , Hua Ertian
Published: November 2012

To control quality in supply chain, this paper presents multi-period, dynamic game models in principal-agent theory, which are opposite to static, single period game models. The research comes from industrial practice and the conclusions are more operational and feasible in theory. Finally, the research is applied into two famous companies in different industries and shows good effectiveness.
Towards a Unified Definition of Supply Chain Management
Authors: Sweeney Edward
Published: November 2012

A wide range of definitions of supply chain management (SCM) have been developed over the last three decades. The philosophy of SCM is based firmly on a recognition that it is only by working in a more integrated manner that competitive advantage can be maximised. However, for this to become a reality the development of common definitions and understandings between supply chain partners is a critical success factor. The corollary of this is that a lack of definitional consistency and a common understanding is an inhibitor to the successful adoption of SCM thinking in practice. This paper reviews a number of definitions of SCM, as well as discussions and analyses of such definitions. This leads to the central point posited in the paper – the need for a ‘unified definition’. Such a definitional construct, labelled the Four Fundamentals of SCM, is proposed with the core of the paper providing a narrative description of this construct based on a wide range of literature.
Process Analysis of Knowledge Production
Authors: Saadé Raafat George , Ahmed Ali
Published: November 2012

This paper presents an optimized supply chain for ‘knowledge products’. Based on the traditional logistics model for academic knowledge, knowledge creation and delivery are discussed. A new framework of an optimized supply chain for ‘knowledge products’ is developed. A semi-structured interview was undertaken to capture and analyze the knowledge logistics in a traditional publishing setup. Findings include the illustration of a new optimized supply chain for the manufacturing and distribution of ‘knowledge products’. Realised benefits are discussed showing a significant reduction in total supply chain processing. Research in this domain involves the actual knowledge creators (publishing companies). Connecting knowledge delivery systems to the supplier presents challenges including information sharing and openness to accessing their systems. More challenges are discussed with implications, primarily related to commitment, partnership and re-engineering of present systems. Publishing companies still follow the same traditional supply chain for knowledge creation. They have moved towards custom publishing, but their processes remain practically the same. Publishing companies have to change their mindsets and re-engineer their processes.
New distribution records for the southern semiornate snake, Meizodon s. semiornatus (Peters, 1854), with a first record from the Kruger National Park and Transvaal
Authors: Haagner G.V.
Published: November 2012

The southern semiornate snake, Meizodon s. semiornatus, has a fairly wide distribution in south-east Africa, but due to its secretive habits, it is seldom seen or collected. In South Africa, this species was previously known from only one specimen collected in Zululand during 1965. A second specimen was collected near Crocodile Bridge in the Kruger National Park on 8 November 1987 and constitutes the first record of the species in the Transvaal. Other distribution records for the species were obtained from museums and an updated distribution map was compiled.
Sense-making: A necessity for effective learning of Mathematics.
Authors: Du Toit Gabriël F.
Published: November 2012

This article examines the phenomenon of why effective learning does not always materialise in Mathematics and, more specifically, in Algebra at school level. In an attempt to understand why effective learning evades learners, a narrative inquiry was conducted on future teachers (students) enrolled for a Mathematics education course as well as on teachers furthering their studies in Mathematics education. Such narrative inquiry also aims to make known the researcher’s experience of the various obstacles encountered in the teaching of Mathematics education and to offer insights afforded by the researcher’s personal reflections. The outcomes are compared with possible reasons as portrayed in literature. The participants’ responses are discussed by analysing their responses to some of the questions posed to them.
Die verband tussen genade en werke in 1QS se reddingsbegrip
Authors: Semmelink J.W.
Published: November 2012

The relationship between faith and works in the soteriology of 1QS. An analysis was made of 1QS to construct its view on grace and works in salvation. The author contends that Qumran makes much of works and that E P Sanders understated this element. Salvation according to 1QS can best be described by the modem term "synergism".
"Daar is die Lam van God... " . Plaasvervangende offertradisies in die Johannesevangelie
Authors: Van der Watt J.G.
Published: November 2012

"Behold, the Lamb of God... " Substitutionary sacrifice traditions in the Gospel of Joh. The issue of substitutionary sacrifice in John's Gospel is hotly debated. In this article it is argued that there are clear traces of this tradition in the Gospel, although it receives little emphasis. The hypothesis is argued that the author concentrates on the positive aspects of salvation. He does not deal with the question of Jesus' treatment of sin and gUilt as such. However, with the scattered remarks through the Gospel about substitution and sacrifice, a clear indication is given that Jesus also deals with sin (I :29). Due to the positive theological focus in the Gospel this theme is not further developed, but simply stated briefly. When the question about the treatment of sin comes into focus (i e 1 John), no hesitation is displayed in using "typical" sacrificial and substitutionary terminology.
Die funksie van Elihu (Job 32-37) in die boek Job
Authors: Viviers H.
Published: November 2012

The function of Elihu (Job 32-37) in the book of Job. The Elihu speeches (Job 32-37) in the design of the book of Job are usually evaluated either totally redundant or literary fitting and functional. Why were they integrated in the book of Job, without adding anything new or profound? A literary-pragmatic analysis was done on these speeches to detennine their function in Job. The text was analysed narratologically and poetically. This was complemented with insights from reception-criticism ("implied author", "implied reader") and pragmatics (politeness strategies) in order to also. read "between the lines". The exigency for the integration of the Elihu speeches in the book of Job seems to be the ironic exposure of the doctrine of retribution.
Die hoorder en sy konteks
Authors: Vos C.J.A.
Published: November 2012

The hearer and his context. The importance of the context of the hearer with regard to homiletics are exploited. Concepts, such as modernisation and secularisation are explained to clarify the context of the hearer. The thesis that homiletics should accept the challenge which modernisation poses to the church, is defended.