bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of routinely collected patient data for research: A critical review
Authors: Foster Victoria , Young Alys
Published: November 2011

Over recent years in the UK there has been growing interest in the potential for routinely collected NHS (National Health Service) patient data to be used for secondary purposes, facilitated by the potential of increasingly sophisticated electronic databases. This article is based on a critically reflective literature review which analyses the key debates pertaining to this issue. The work arose in the context of a programme of research concerning routine patient data use in neonatal care. The article includes analysis of commentary (opinion and ethical inquiry) as well as empirically derived claims. It aims to deconstruct the knowledge assumptions on which relevant research studies have been based or are proposed and it also incorporates ontological position and moral argument. Results are presented according to three predominant debates: the prevailing claim that all health research benefits civic society; the varieties of informed consent and choices open to patients regarding secondary uses of their data; and the ‘rights and responsibilities’ of patients when it comes to their data being used for research purposes. It examines the relevance of these themes specifically to the neonatal context and the implications for our own research, concluding that employing an alternative ethical model to the traditional professional one might be useful in order to provide a further perspective on the issue.
Women With Disabilities’ Experience With Physical and Sexual Abuse
Authors: Plummer Sara-Beth , Findley Patricia A.
Published: November 2011

While studies suggest that the rate of abuse of women with disabilities is similar or higher compared to the general population, there continues to be a lack of attention to this issue. Women with disabilities are at particularly high risk of abuse, both through typical forms of violence (physical, sexual, and emotional) and those that target one’s disability. In an effort to highlight the need for increased attention to this issue, this article reviews the current peer-reviewed research in this field. The authors outline recommendations for future research goals and provide implications for research, practice, and policy.
Enhancement of wrinkle recovery angle of cotton fabric using citric acid cross-linking agent with nano-TiO2 as a co-catalyst
Authors: Karthik T , Rathinamoorthy R , Murugan R
Published: November 2011

In this research, the non-formaldehyde wrinkle-resistant treatment of cotton fabrics has been investigated using the citric acid (CA) as a cross-linking agent and sodium hypophosphite (SHP) as a catalyst together with nano-titanium dioxide (nano-TiO2) as a co-catalyst compound. The effect of the changes in the concentrations of CA, SHP, and nano-TiO2 on the wrinkle recovery angle (WRA), tensile strength, tearing strength, whiteness index, and flexural rigidity of cotton fabrics was studied using Box–Behnken design. It was found that the addition of nano-TiO2 could enhance the wrinkle resistance and decrease the flexural rigidity of the cotton fabric with little effect on the whiteness index, and tearing and tensile strengths of the treated fabric. The developed empirical models are found to be in good correlation with the selected variables ( r2 ≥ 0.8). From this study, it was concluded that 10% CA, 10% sodium dihydrogen phosphate, and 0.1% nano-TiO2 were the optimum concentrations required to enhance the WRA without adversely affecting the other physical properties of the treated cotton fabrics.
The EXCITE Trial
Authors: Wolf Steven L. , Thompson Paul A. , Estes Emily , Lonergan Timothy , Merchant Rozina , Richardson Natasha
Published: November 2011

Objective. This is the first study to examine Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) tasks among EXCITE Trial participants that could not be completed at baseline or 2 weeks later. Methods. Data were collected from participants who received constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) immediately at the time of randomization (CIMT-I, n = 106) and from those for whom there was a delay of 1 year in receiving this intervention (CIMT-D, n = 116). Data were collected at baseline and at a 2-week time point, during which the CIMT-I group received the CIMT intervention and the CIMT-D group did not. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) analyses were used to examine repeated binary data and count values. Group and visit interactions were assessed, adjusting for functional level, affected side, dominant side, age, and gender covariates. Results. In CIMT-I participants, there was an increase in the proportion of completed tasks at posttest compared with CIMT-D participants, particularly with respect to those tasks requiring dexterity with small objects and total incompletes ( P < .0033). Compared with baseline, 120 tasks governing distal limb use for CIMT-I and 58 tasks dispersed across the WMFT for CIMT-D could be completed after 2 weeks. Common movement components that may have contributed to incomplete tasks include shoulder stabilization and flexion, elbow flexion and extension, wrist pronation, supination and ulnar deviation, and pincer grip. Conclusion. CIMT training should emphasize therapy for those specific movement components in patients who meet the EXCITE criteria for baseline motor control.
From the car boot to booting it up? eBay, online counterfeit crime and the transformation of the criminal marketplace
Authors: Treadwell James
Published: November 2011

This article is based on research with men who have embraced the new technological opportunities offered by the internet to sell counterfeit products and engage in forms of intellectual property crime, specifically trading counterfeit items through internet websites. It examines case studies and qualitative material generated through interviews with professional criminal entrepreneurs who have made use of the web-site ‘eBay’ in order to distribute goods while minimizing the risk of detection and prosecution. This empirical material, it suggests, provides some initial evidence of how more traditional forms of working class male enterprise crime are now being mutated and superseded, and are shifting in light of the opportunities provided by new technology, moving from traditional local marketplaces to new online settings.
Treatment de-escalation after mitoxantrone therapy: results of a phase IV, multicentre, open-label, randomized study of subcutaneous interferon beta-1a in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis
Authors: Rieckmann Peter , Heidenreich Fedor , Sailer Michael , Zettl Uwe K. , Zessack Norbert , Hartung Hans-Peter , Gold Ralf ,   on behalf of the REMAIN study group
Published: November 2011

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the effect of treatment with interferon (IFN) β-1a, 44 µg subcutaneously (sc) three times weekly (tiw), on clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) outcomes in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) following mitoxantrone therapy.

Methods: This was an open-label, randomized, multicentre, rater-blinded, 96-week observational study conducted in Germany. Clinically stable patients with relapsing forms of MS, who had discontinued mitoxantrone treatment 1–6 months before study entry, were randomized to IFN β-1a sc 44 µg tiw, or no treatment. The primary endpoint was time to first relapse. Secondary endpoints included the number of relapse-free patients, disease activity assessed by MRI and time to 3-month confirmed Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) progression, all at week 96.

Results: A total of 30 patients were randomized (intent-to-treat population: 14 IFN β-1a, 15 untreated; one patient from the safety population discontinued the study after 25 days owing to an adverse event and without providing any postbaseline efficacy data, and was thus excluded from the intent-to-treat population). Overall, 71.4% (10/14) of patients in the IFN β-1a group remained relapse free over 96 weeks, versus 46.7% (7/15) in the untreated group ( p = 0.26). IFN β-1a delayed the time to first relapse versus no treatment ( p = 0.14); time to first relapse (25th percentile) was 95.4 (IFN β-1a) versus 46.0 weeks (no treatment). Confirmed EDSS progression was observed in five patients in each treatment group. Mean change in EDSS score was 0.3 in both groups ( p = 0.79). Changes in the number or volume of T1 and T2 lesions at week 96 were not significantly different between treatment groups ( p > 0.05). There were no new or unexpected adverse events related to IFN β-1a treatment.

Conclusions: Several endpoints appeared to show a benefit of IFN β-1a treatment, but no significant differences could be detected owing to the small sample. Therefore, these data only permit, at best, tentative conclusions about the disease course in patients with MS after de-escalation from mitoxantrone and continuation with or without IFN β-1a. Larger confirmatory studies are required.
One is Enough
Authors: Brown Erika A. , Grice James W.
Published: November 2011

The Dynamic Analog Scale (DAS)—a generic and flexible technique for creating single-item measures of psychological constructs—comprises detailed definitions and a continuous analog scale on which self and others are rated simultaneously. Using five experimental conditions, the authors investigated the psychometric properties of the DAS as well as the impact of different social contexts and modified Big Five trait definitions on participant ratings and their relationships to measures of volunteerism, religiosity, affect, and alcohol consumption. Results revealed few differences across conditions, and reliability coefficients and predictive validity estimates were similar to those typically obtained using standard, multiple-item questionnaires. The DAS is therefore supported as a consistent and efficacious method for measuring personality traits with single items.
Donor B-cell alloantibody deposition and germinal center formation are required for the development of murine chronic GVHD and bronchiolitis obliterans
Authors: Srinivasan Mathangi , Flynn Ryan , Price Andrew , Ranger Ann , Browning Jeffrey L. , Taylor Patricia A. , Ritz Jerome , Antin Joseph H. , Murphy William J. , Luznik Leo , Shlomchik Mark J. , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Blazar Bruce R.
Published: November 2011

Chronic GVHD (cGVHD) poses a significant risk for HSCT patients. Preclinical development of new therapeutic modalities has been hindered by models with pathologic findings that may not simulate the development of human cGVHD. Previously, we have demonstrated that cGVHD induced by allogeneic HSCT after a conditioning regimen of cyclophosphamide and total-body radiation results in pulmonary dysfunction and airway obliteration, which leads to bronchiolitis obliterans (BO), which is pathognomonic for cGVHD of the lung. We now report cGVHD manifestations in a wide spectrum of target organs, including those with mucosal surfaces. Fibrosis was demonstrated in the lung and liver and was associated with CD4+ T cells and B220+ B-cell infiltration and alloantibody deposition. Donor bone marrow obtained from mice incapable of secreting IgG alloantibody resulted in less BO and cGVHD. Robust germinal center reactions were present at the time of cGVHD disease initiation. Blockade of germinal center formation with a lymphotoxin-receptor–immunoglobulin fusion protein suppressed cGVHD and BO. We conclude that cGVHD is caused in part by alloantibody secretion, which is associated with fibrosis and cGVHD manifestations including BO, and that treatment with a lymphotoxin-β receptor–immunoglobulin fusion protein could be beneficial for cGVHD prevention and therapy.
El Anatsui: When I Last Wrote to You about Africa
Authors: Smith Terry
Published: November 2011

In his wall hangings of sewn-together tops from alcohol bottles and other detritus, most of them made since 2002, El Anatsui has accomplished one of the very few genuine breakthroughs in contemporary art anywhere in the world today. This exhibition at Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto, is his first major retrospective. It begins from poststudent work in the 1970s and includes work in a variety of mediums up to the present. Because of some highly problematic display decisions, however, a full sense of the artist’s journey is difficult to discern. The absence of certain well-known works, due to the reluctance of institutional lenders, further disappoints. It is to be hoped that, as the exhibition travels to other venues, these faults will be rectified.
Msx1 and Msx2 promote meiosis initiation
Authors: Le Bouffant Ronan , Souquet Benoit , Duval Nathalie , Duquenne Clotilde , Hervé Roxane , Frydman Nelly , Robert Benoit , Habert René , Livera Gabriel
Published: November 2011

The mechanisms regulating germ line sex determination and meiosis initiation are poorly understood. Here, we provide evidence for the involvement of homeobox Msx transcription factors in foetal meiosis initiation in mammalian germ cells. Upon meiosis initiation, Msx1 and Msx2 genes are strongly expressed in the foetal ovary, possibly stimulated by soluble factors found there: bone morphogenetic proteins Bmp2 and Bmp4, and retinoic acid. Analysis of Msx1/Msx2 double mutant embryos revealed a majority of undifferentiated germ cells remaining in the ovary and, importantly, a decrease in the number of meiotic cells. In vivo, the Msx1/Msx2 double-null mutation prevented full activation of Stra8, a gene required for meiosis. In F9 cells, Msx1 can bind to Stra8 regulatory sequences and Msx1 overexpression stimulates Stra8 transcription. Collectively, our data demonstrate for the first time that some homeobox genes are required for meiosis initiation in the female germ line.
Cognitive performance after postoperative pituitary radiotherapy: a dosimetric study of the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Brummelman Pauline , Sattler Margriet G A , Meiners Linda C , Elderson Martin F , Dullaart Robin P F , van den Berg Gerrit , Koerts Janneke , Tucha Oliver , Wolffenbuttel Bruce H R , van den Bergh Alfonsus C M , van Beek André P
Published: November 2011

Objective

The hippocampus and prefrontal cortex (PFC) are important for memory and executive functioning and are known to be sensitive to radiotherapy (RT). Radiation dosimetry relates radiation exposure to specific brain areas. The effects of various pituitary RT techniques were studied by relating detailed dosimetry of the hippocampus and PFC to cognitive performance.

Methods

In this cross-sectional design, 75 non-functioning pituitary macroadenoma (NFA) patients (61±10 years) participated and were divided into irradiated (RT+, n=30) and non-irradiated (RT−, n=45) groups. The RT+ group (who all received 25 fractions of 1.8 Gy; total dose: 45 Gy) consisted of three RT technique groups: three-field technique, n=10; four-field technique, n=15; and five-field technique, n=5. Memory and executive functioning were assessed by standardized neuropsychological tests. A reconstruction of the dose distributions for the three RT techniques was made. The RT doses on 30, 50, and 70% of the volume of the left and right hippocampus and PFC were calculated.

Results

Cognitive test performance was not different between the four groups, despite differences in radiation doses applied to the hippocampi and PFC. Age at RT, time since RT, and the use of thyroid hormone varied significantly between the groups; however, they were not related to cognitive performance.

Conclusion

This study showed that there were no significant differences on cognitive performance between the three-, four-, and five-field RT groups and the non-irradiated patient group. A dose–response relationship could not be established, even with a radiation dose that was higher on most of the volume of the hippocampus and PFC in case of a four-field RT technique compared with the three- and five-field RT techniques.
Community assembly in epiphytic lichens in early stages of colonization
Authors: Gjerde Ivar , Blom Hans H. , Lindblom Louise , Sætersdal Magne , Schei Fride Høistad
Published: November 2011

Colonization studies may function as natural experiments and have the potential of addressing important questions about community assembly. We studied colonization for a guild of epiphytic lichens in a former treeless heathland area of 170 km2in southwest Norway. We investigated if epiphytic lichen species richness and composition on aspen (Populus tremula)trees corresponded to a random draw of lichen individuals from the regional species pool. We compared lichen communities of isolated young (55–120 yr) and old (140–200 yr) forest patches in the heathland area to those of aspen forest in an adjacent reference area that has been forested for a long time. All thalli (lichen bodies) of 32 selected lichen species on trunks of aspen were recorded in 35 aspen sites. When data for each site category (young, old, and reference) were pooled, we found the species richness by rarefaction to be similar for reference sites and old sites, but significantly lower for young sites. The depauperated species richness of young sites was accompanied by a skew in species composition and absence of several species that were common in the reference sites. In contrast, genetic variation screened with neutral microsatellite markers in the lichen speciesLobaria pulmonariashowed no significant differences between site categories. Our null hypothesis of a neutral species assembly in young sites corresponding to a random draw from the regional species pool was rejected, whereas an alternative hypothesis based on differences in colonization capacity among species was supported. The results indicate that for the habitat configuration in the heathland area (isolated patches constituting <0.4% of the area) lichen communities may need a colonization time of 100–150 yr for species richness to level off, but given enough time, isolation will not affect species richness. We suggest that this contradiction to expectations from classical island equilibrium theory results from low extinction rates.
The Current Economic Paradigm in the Light of Financialisation
Authors: Dudziński Jerzy
Published: November 2011

The Current Economic Paradigm in the Light of Financialisation

The paper presents the direction of the mainstream economics paradigm shift and the evidence supporting the inadequacy of its several foundations. The author puts emphasis in particular on the aspects of financialisation in international markets and its impact on the current economic life. International commodity markets provide a good reflection of the effects of financialisation. Current price movements in these markets are determined to a large extent by the engagement of financial investors, which has serious implications to the practical aspect of the economy and contributes to the changes in the nature of several basic economic categories. These markets can be, therefore, considered a certain detailed case study illustrating the general theoretical problems analysed in the paper (directions of evolution of the current economic paradigm).
Emission Ratios for Ammonia and Formic Acid and Observations of Peroxy Acetyl Nitrate (PAN) and Ethylene in Biomass Burning Smoke as Seen by the Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES)
Authors: Alvarado Matthew J. , Cady-Pereira Karen E. , Xiao Yaping , Millet Dylan B. , Payne Vivienne H.
Published: November 2011

We use the Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES) aboard the NASA Aura satellite to determine the concentrations of the trace gases ammonia (NH3) and formic acid (HCOOH) within boreal biomass burning plumes, and present the first detection of peroxy acetyl nitrate (PAN) and ethylene (C2H4) by TES. We focus on two fresh Canadian plumes observed by TES in the summer of 2008 as part of the Arctic Research of the Composition of the Troposphere from Aircraft and Satellites (ARCTAS-B) campaign. We use TES retrievals of NH3 and HCOOH within the smoke plumes to calculate their emission ratios (1.0% ± 0.5% and 0.31% ± 0.21%, respectively) relative to CO for these Canadian fires. The TES derived emission ratios for these gases agree well with previous aircraft and satellite estimates, and can complement ground-based studies that have greater surface sensitivity. We find that TES observes PAN mixing ratios of ~2 ppb within these mid-tropospheric boreal biomass burning plumes when the average cloud optical depth is low ( < 0.1) and that TES can detect C2H4 mixing ratios of ~2 ppb in fresh biomass burning smoke plumes.
Making the National Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA) More Responsive to the Livelihood Needs of Tree Planting Farmers, Drawing on Previous Experience in Dryland Sudan
Authors: Kalame Fobissie Blese , Luukkanen Olavi , Kanninen Markku
Published: November 2011

Recently, tree planting has become popular under NAPA. For decades, many tree planting projects were implemented to reduce the vulnerability of ecosystems and societies. Despite all of these, tree-dependent livelihoods remain vulnerable, which leaves doubt on the benefit of tree planting to enhance the resilience of livelihoods to climatic shocks. This suggests that much can be learned from the past to improve future tree planting adaptation projects. This paper draws on the experience of farmers involved in gum arabic agroforestry in Sudan in order to understand the needs of tree-related adaptation projects that should be addressed. Surveyed farmers appreciated the different environmental services rendered by trees. Their priority areas for an adaptation project however, remain issues tied to gum producer price, rainfall pattern, and locust attacks as well as extension services and to a lesser extent access to micro credits. Moreover, Sudan’s Gum Arabic Company (GAC) and Forests National Corporation play key roles in governance but are not yet considered as key adaptation players particularly the unsupportive role of the monopoly of gum exportation by GAC to tree planting as an adaptation activity. By focusing the design and implementation on tree related livelihood obstacles, adaptation projects are likely to be more responsive to the needs of vulnerable groups.
Natural Resource Knowledge and Information Management via the Victorian Resources Online Website
Authors: Imhof Mark , Cox Matthew , Fadersen Angela , Harvey Wayne , Thompson Sonia , Rees David , Pettit Christopher
Published: November 2011

Since 1997, the Victorian Resources Online (VRO) website (http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/vro) has been a key means for the dissemination of landscape-based natural resources information via the internet in Victoria, Australia. The website currently consists of approximately 11,000 web pages, including 1900 maps and 1000 downloadable documents. Information is provided at a range of scales—from statewide and regional overviews to more detailed catchment and sub-catchment levels. At all these levels of generalisation, information is arranged in an organisationally agnostic way around key knowledge “domains” (e.g., soil, landform, water). VRO represents a useful model for the effective dissemination of a wide range of natural resources information; relying on partnerships with key subject matter experts and data custodians, including a “knowledge network” of retired land resource assessment specialists. In this paper, case studies are presented that illustrate various approaches to information and knowledge management with a focus on presentation of spatially contexted soil and landscape information at different levels of generalisation. Examples are provided of adapting site-based information into clickable maps that reveal site-specific details, as well as “spatialising” data from specialist internal databases to improve accessibility to a wider audience. Legacy information sources have also been consolidated and spatially referenced. More recent incorporation of interactive visualisation products (such as landscape panoramas, videos and animations) is providing interactive rich media content. Currently the site attracts an average of 1190 user visits per day and user evaluation has indicated a wide range of users, including students, teachers, consultants, researchers and extension staff. The wide range of uses for information and, in particular, the benefits for natural resource education, research and extension has also been identified.
Evaluation of Internal Reference Genes for Quantitative Expression Analysis by Real-Time PCR in Ovine Whole Blood
Authors: Peletto Simone , Bertuzzi Simone , Campanella Chiara , Modesto Paola , Maniaci Maria Grazia , Bellino Claudio , Ariello Dario , Quasso Antonio , Caramelli Maria , Acutis Pier Luigi
Published: November 2011

The use of reference genes is commonly accepted as the most reliable approach to normalize qRT-PCR and to reduce possible errors in the quantification of gene expression. The most suitable reference genes in sheep have been identified for a restricted range of tissues, but no specific data on whole blood are available. The aim of this study was to identify a set of reference genes for normalizing qRT-PCR from ovine whole blood. We designed 11 PCR assays for commonly employed reference genes belonging to various functional classes and then determined their expression stability in whole blood samples from control and disease-stressed sheep. SDHA and YWHAZ were considered the most suitable internal controls as they were stably expressed regardless of disease status according to both geNorm and NormFinder software; furthermore, geNorm indicated SDHA/HPRT, YWHAZ/GAPDH and SDHA/YWHAZ as the best reference gene combinations in control, disease-stressed and combined sheep groups, respectively. Our study provides a validated panel of optimal control genes which may be useful for the identification of genes differentially expressed by qRT-PCR in a readily accessible tissue, with potential for discovering new physiological and disease markers and as a tool to improve production traits (e.g., by identifying expression Quantitative Trait Loci). An additional outcome of the study is a set of intron-spanning primer sequences suitable for gene expression experiments employing SYBR Green chemistry on other ovine tissues and cells.
Tunicamycin Depresses P-Glycoprotein Glycosylation Without an Effect on Its Membrane Localization and Drug Efflux Activity in L1210 Cells
Authors: Šereš Mário , Cholujová Dana , Bubenčíkova Tatiana , Breier Albert , Sulová Zdenka
Published: November 2011

P-glycoprotein (P-gp), also known as ABCB1, is a member of the ABC transporter family of proteins. P-gp is an ATP-dependent drug efflux pump that is localized to the plasma membrane of mammalian cells and confers multidrug resistance in neoplastic cells. P-gp is a 140-kDa polypeptide that is glycosylated to a final molecular weight of 170 kDa. Our experimental model used two variants of L1210 cells in which overexpression of P-gp was achieved: either by adaptation of parental cells (S) to vincristine (R) or by transfection with the human gene encoding P-gp (T). R and T cells were found to differ from S cells in transglycosylation reactions in our recent studies. The effects of tunicamycin on glycosylation, drug efflux activity and cellular localization of P-gp in R and T cells were examined in the present study. Treatment with tunicamycin caused less concentration-dependent cellular damage to R and T cells compared with S cells. Tunicamycin inhibited P-gp N-glycosylation in both of the P-gp-positive cells. However, tunicamycin treatment did not alter either the P-gp cellular localization to the plasma membrane or the P-gp transport activity. The present paper brings evidence that independently on the mode of P-gp expression (selection with drugs or transfection with a gene encoding P-gp) in L1210 cells, tunicamycin induces inhibition of N-glycosylation of this protein, without altering its function as plasma membrane drug efflux pump.
Green Aspects of Techniques for the Determination of Currently Used Pesticides in Environmental Samples
Authors: Stocka Jolanta , Tankiewicz Maciej , Biziuk Marek , Namieśnik Jacek
Published: November 2011

Pesticides are among the most dangerous environmental pollutants because of their stability, mobility and long-term effects on living organisms. Their presence in the environment is a particular danger. It is therefore crucial to monitor pesticide residues using all available analytical methods. The analysis of environmental samples for the presence of pesticides is very difficult: the processes involved in sample preparation are labor-intensive and time-consuming. To date, it has been standard practice to use large quantities of organic solvents in the sample preparation process; but as these solvents are themselves hazardous, solvent-less and solvent-minimized techniques are becoming popular. The application of Green Chemistry principles to sample preparation is primarily leading to the miniaturization of procedures and the use of solvent-less techniques, and these are discussed in the paper.
Brominated Compounds from Marine Sponges of the Genus Aplysina and a Compilation of Their 13C NMR Spectral Data
Authors: Lira Narlize Silva , Montes Ricardo Carneiro , Tavares Josean Fechine , Silva Marcelo Sobral da , Cunha Emidio V. L. da , Athayde-Filho Petronio Filgueiras de , Rodrigues Luis Cezar , Dias Celidarque da Silva , Barbosa-Filho Jose Maria
Published: November 2011

Aplysina is the best representative genus of the family Aplysinidae. Halogenated substances are its main class of metabolites. These substances contribute greatly to the chemotaxonomy and characterization of the sponges belonging to this genus. Due to their pharmacological activities, these alkaloids are of special interest. The chemistry of halogenated substances and of the alkaloids has long been extensively studied in terrestrial organisms, while the number of marine organisms studied has just started to increase in the last decades. This review describes 101 halogenated substances from 14 species of Aplysina from different parts of the world. These substances can be divided into the following classes: bromotyramines (A), cavernicolins (B), hydroverongiaquinols (C), bromotyrosineketals (D), bromotyrosine lactone derivatives (E), oxazolidones (F), spiroisoxazolines (G), verongiabenzenoids (H), verongiaquinols (I), and dibromocyclohexadienes (J). A compilation of their 13C NMR data is also part of the review. For this purpose 138 references were consulted.
Introduction à la géographie sociale des frontières
Authors: Raffestin Claude
Published: November 2011

Introduction to social geography of frontiers.

After having recalled the significance of the previous works on the subjects of pioneer fringes and actual political frontiers, the author suggests that henceforth geographic reflection be directed more towards an attempt of formalization and modeling of frontier spaces.
Migrations résidentielles en milieu rural péri-urbain : le Pays de Caux Central
Authors: Fruit Jean-Pierre
Published: November 2011

FRE:Ralentissement de la rurbanisation!Rurbanisation!Structure sociale!Structure par âges!Navettes!Logement!France
An Input-Output model of residential mobility: a simulation of housing opportunities
Authors: Scholten Henk , Hooimeijer Pieter
Published: November 2011

Un modèle d'entrées-sorties pour l'étude de la mobilité résidentielle : simulation des opportunités de logement.

Le montant total des constructions nouvelles aux Pays-Bas diminuera dans l'avenir en fonction des modifications démographiques. De plus en plus, le marché du logement existant devra répondre aux demandes du logement. En conséquence, la redistribution des programmes de construction sera de toute première importance. L'analyse des « chaînes de logements vacants » est utilisée pour la succession de locataires par habitation. La reconstitution des «chaînes de logements vacants » prises individuellement est cependant très aléatoire et manque d'appui théorique. Le modèle basé sur l'étude des arrivées et des départs, qui est décrit dans cet article, fournit une alternative et peut être utilisé pour évaluer le montant total et la composition du roulement qui résulte d'une différenciation spécifique des programmes de construction. Un pas décisif a été fait dans l'élaboration du modèle — il s'agit de la délimitation spatiale et sectorielle de sous-marchés du logement. La délimitation spatiale des sous-marchés est réalisée au moyen d'une analyse de regroupement. C'est par l'analyse loglinéaire qu'on réalise la délimitation sectorielle des sous-marchés et qu'on évalue les liens existant entre ces sous-marchés.
Ageing in Europe: Introductory Remarks
Authors: Clarke John I.
Published: November 2011

The population of Europe has long comprised relatively more elderly people than any other continent, a fact largely caused by prolonged fertility decline. The overall average of those aged 65 and over is 13 per cent, so there are more than 64 million in this age group; in Northern Europe they constitute 15 per cent and in Western Europe 14 per cent. Until the 1960s France had a higher proportion of elderly than any other major country, but since then it has been rapidly overtaken by many other European countries headed by Sweden but including the United Kingdom. An analysis of ageing in the 21 Council of Europe countries reveals trends and characteristics.
Les retraités en France : mode de vie et modèles culturels.
Authors: Castelain-Meunier Christine , Fagnani Jeanne
Published: November 2011

Les modes de vie des retraités en France sont très diversifiés. La vie en couple est une situation beaucoup plus fréquente pour les hommes que pour les femmes. Les anciennes conditions de travail, l'appartenance socio-culturelle et le sexe différencient beaucoup les pratiques spatiales et quotidiennes des retraités. Les différents modèles culturels, sous-jacents aux attitudes et comportements des « anciens » (enseignants, cadres d'IBM et de la métallurgie) face à la retraite sont analysés et mettent en évidence les permanences et les changements dans le champ social de la vieillesse.
Les variations régionales de la structure des ménages en France
Authors: Chauviré Yvan
Published: November 2011

À partir des données par arrondissement provenant du recensement de 1982, l'auteur étudie la répartition dans l'espace français des divers types de structures familiales existant parmi les ménages : ménages non familiaux simples (personnes seules) et complexes, ménages familiaux simples et complexes.

Il montre qu'une évolution s'est produite depuis 1962, tendant à la simplification de la structure des ménages par l'augmentation du nombre des personnes seules et des ménages familiaux simples (couples avec ou sans enfants sans « tiers »). L'article analyse enfin les types de combinaisons régionales des différentes catégories de ménages.
Fécondité et dimension des familles en Europe occidentale
Authors: Prioux France
Published: November 2011

Fertility and Family size in Western Europe.

The trends observed since the second world war-i.e. the continuing shift to younger ages at childbearing; the increase in first and second birth order fertility, hidden by the decrease in higher birth order fertility - changed in the mid-sixties. Thus, among women born in 1945, who got married at early ages and in an overwhelming majority, the lowest rate of childlessness in history can be observed. They completed quickly their fertility, which a large part of them voluntarily limited to two children. For women born ten years later, a married couple with two children seems to be no longer a universal pattern: marriage and motherhood are rejected by some of them, postponed by others, who hesitate to have a second child. Furthermore, the stabilization of the fertility rates of third and later births could indicate the end in the decrease of large families, although most of the time at a very low level.

South European countries follow these trends with a delay of five or ten years.
Comparison of Higher Order Aberrations After Implantable Collamer Lens Implantation and Wavefront-guided LASEK in High Myopia
Authors: Shin Joo Youn , Ahn Hyunseok , Seo Kyoung Yul , Kim Eung Kweon , Kim Tae-im
Published: November 2011

PURPOSE:

To compare changes in ocular higher order aberrations (HOAs) after Visian Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL, STAAR Surgical Co) implantation and wavefront-guided laser epithelial keratomileusis (WFG-LASEK) to correct high myopia.

METHODS:

This prospective case series comprised 30 eyes (18 patients) that underwent ICL implantation (ICL group) and 33 eyes (18 patients) that underwent WFG-LASEK (WFG-LASEK group). All eyes had spherical equivalent of −6.00 to −9.00 diopters. Entire ocular, internal optic, and corneal HOAs were measured before surgery and 3 months after surgery using a laser ray tracing aberrometer. Contrast sensitivity testing was performed in 10 eyes from each group at a photopic light level of 85 cd/m
2
and a mesopic level of 3 cd/m
2
3 months after surgery.

RESULTS:

In the ICL group, HOAs changed for the entire ocular trefoil-y, spherical aberration, internal optic spherical aberration, and corneal trefoil-y. In the WFG-LASEK group, increased HOAs were observed for total HOAs, entire ocular and corneal spherical aberration, secondary astigmatism, and tetrafoil. The ICL group had lower induced aberration values of entire ocular and corneal HOAs compared with the WFG-LASEK group. No significant differences in contrast sensitivity values between groups at the photopic level were noted; however, contrast sensitivity values were significantly lower for 3 (
P
=.01) and 6 cycles per degree (
P
<.001) in the WFG-LASEK group at the mesopic level. At the mesopic level, total HOAs, trefoil-y, spherical aberration, and secondary astigmatism were higher in the WFG-LASEK group.

CONCLUSIONS:

Implantable Collamer Lens implantation induced fewer ocular and corneal HOAs and resulted in better contrast sensitivity at mesopic levels than WFG-LASEK in eyes with high myopia.
A LABVIEW-BASED MULTI-PARAMETER MEASURING SYSTEM OF ARTERY STIFFNESS AND CLINICAL STUDY
Authors: Xiao Hanguang , He Wei , Li Songnong , Yu Chuanxiang , Lin Haitao
Published: November 2011

An artery stiffness measuring system was developed based on LabVIEW for the multiparameter measurement of cardiovascular hemodynamics. The overall hardware and software design of the system were introduced. The basic theory and methods were described for the calculation of pulse wave velocity (PWV), artery stiffness index (ASI), aorta compliance (C1) and arteriole compliance (C2). In order to illustrate the effectiveness of the system, the comparative clinical trial was performed on 218 participators by measuring carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) using ultrasonography instrument and measuring the multiparameters by the developed system. In addition, age and blood pressure were divided respectively into five and three groups to analyze their correlation with the multi-parameters of the system. The results showed that the age and blood pressure groups are positively correlated with PWV and ASI, and negatively with C1 and C2; PP, ASI and PWV are positively correlated with CIMT; C2 is negatively correlated with CIMT. The results demonstrated that the system could be used to detect and diagnose artery stiffness from different aspects by measuring the multi-parameters.
CARMA1 Is Necessary for Optimal T Cell Responses in a Murine Model of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Ramadas Ravisankar A. , Roche Marly I. , Moon James J. , Ludwig Thomas , Xavier Ramnik J. , Medoff Benjamin D.
Published: November 2011

CARMA1 is a lymphocyte-specific scaffold protein necessary for T cell activation. Deletion of CARMA1 prevents the development of allergic airway inflammation in a mouse model of asthma due to a defect in naive T cell activation. However, it is unknown if CARMA1 is important for effector and memory T cell responses after the initial establishment of inflammation, findings that would be more relevant to asthma therapies targeted to CARMA1. In the current study, we sought to elucidate the role of CARMA1 in T cells that have been previously activated. Using mice in which floxed CARMA1 exons can be selectively deleted in T cells by OX40-driven Cre recombinase (OX40+/CreCARMA1F/F), we report that CD4+ T cells from these mice have impaired T cell reactivation responses and NF-κB signaling in vitro. Furthermore, in an in vivo recall model of allergic airway inflammation that is dependent on memory T cell function, OX40+/CreCARMA1F/F mice have attenuated eosinophilic airway inflammation, T cell activation, and Th2 cytokine production. Using MHC class II tetramers, we demonstrate that the development and maintenance of Ag-specific memory T cells is not affected in OX40+/CreCARMA1F/F mice. In addition, adoptive transfer of Th2-polarized OX40+/CreCARMA1F/F Ag-specific CD4+ T cells into wild-type mice induces markedly less airway inflammation in response to Ag challenge than transfer of wild-type Th2 cells. These data demonstrate a novel role for CARMA1 in effector and memory T cell responses and suggest that therapeutic strategies targeting CARMA1 could help treat chronic inflammatory disorders such as asthma.
Th-1 Lymphocytes Induce Dendritic Cell Tumor Killing Activity by an IFN-γ–Dependent Mechanism
Authors: LaCasse Collin J. , Janikashvili Nona , Larmonier Claire B. , Alizadeh Darya , Hanke Neale , Kartchner Jessica , Situ Elaine , Centuori Sara , Har-Noy Michael , Bonnotte Bernard , Katsanis Emmanuel , Larmonier Nicolas
Published: November 2011

Dendritic cells (DCs) encompass a heterogeneous population of cells capable of orchestrating innate and adaptive immune responses. The ability of DCs to act as professional APCs has been the foundation for the development and use of these cells as vaccines in cancer immunotherapy. DCs are also endowed with the nonconventional property of directly killing tumor cells. The current study investigates the regulation of murine DC cytotoxic function by T lymphocytes. We provide evidence that CD4+ Th-1, but not Th-2, Th-17 cells, or regulatory T cells, are capable of inducing DC cytotoxic function. IFN-γ was identified as the major factor responsible for Th-1–induced DC tumoricidal activity. Tumor cell killing mediated by Th-1–activated killer DCs was dependent on inducible NO synthase expression and NO production. Importantly, Th-1–activated killer DCs were capable of presenting the acquired Ags from the killed tumor cells to T lymphocytes in vitro or in vivo. These observations offer new possibilities for the application of killer DCs in cancer immunotherapy.
A Fish Bone-Related Hepatic Abscess
Authors: Jarry Julien , Nguyen Vien , Stoltz Adeline , Imperato Marc , Michel Philippe
Published: November 2011

We report an unusual case of pyogenic, hepatic abscess caused by fish bone penetration of the duodenum in a 68-year-old woman. The fish bone had migrated into the liver through the duodenal wall. The patient was initially admitted to our emergency room with abdominal pain, fever, and asthenia. A contrastenhanced abdominal coputed tomography (CT) scan showed a hepatic abscess in relation with a straight, foreign body, which had entered through the duodenal wall. Surgery was necessary to remove the foreign body, which was identified as a fish bone. The patient’s recovery was uneventful and she was discharged on postoperative day 10. This case is discussed together with the data collected by a medline-based extensive review of the literature.
The Grassland vegetation of Platberg, eastern Free State, South Africa
Authors: Brand Robert F. , Brown Leslie R. , Du Preez Pieter J.
Published: November 2011

Platberg is an inselberg that presents a refuge for indigenous plants and animals. Uncontrolled human access to this area threatens this sensitive ecosystem. The vegetation of Platberg was investigated to obtain an inventory of the different plant species and communities present in this area. A hierarchical classification, a description and an ecological interpretation of the grassland communities of Platberg are presented. A total of 169 sample plots were placed on a stratified random basis within the study area. From a TWINSPAN classification a total of 27 different plant communities, which can be grouped into two major community types, nine communities, 18 sub-communities and six variants, were identified. A significant difference in species richness was found between the two major communities, with the higher-altitude communities having a higher species richness than the communities on the lower-lying slopes. A total of 26 endemic or near endemic Drakensberg Alpine Centre species were recorded. Conservation implications: Anthropogenic influences are felt globally on ecosystems. High-altitude habitats and organisms will be affected first. Inselbergs have high levels of endemic organisms and are reservoirs and refugia for unique genetic material. This grassland plant community survey of Platberg provides valuable information on inselberg ecology for conservation planning.
Negotiating work identity
Authors: Saayman Tamsen , Crafford Anne
Published: November 2011

Orientation: The study explored the dynamics of work identity negotiation and construction.Research purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate identity tensions and demands that mobilise identity work in the work environment.Motivation for the study: The study hoped to improve the understanding of the dynamics of identity construction and negotiation.Research design, approach and method: Using grounded theory methodology in the context of qualitative field research, the researchers conducted two unstructured interviews with 28 employees of a South African manufacturing company.Main findings: The five primary dimensions the data yielded were personal identity, individual agency, social identity, social practice and job.Practical/managerial implications: This study has implications for organisations that want to improve productivity through understanding work identity.Contribution/value-add: The article presents a conceptual model of the demands and tensions that influence work identity.
Visual Analytics of Surveillance Data on Foodborne Vibriosis, United States, 1973-2010
Authors: Sims Jennifer N. , Isokpehi Raphael D. , Cooper Gabrielle A. , Bass Michael P. , Brown Shyretha D. , John Alison L. St. , Gulig Paul A. , Cohly Hari H.P.
Published: November 2011

Foodborne illnesses caused by microbial and chemical contaminants in food are a substantial health burden worldwide. In 2007, human vibriosis (non-cholera Vibrio infections) became a notifiable disease in the United States. In addition, Vibrio species are among the 31 major known pathogens transmitted through food in the United States. Diverse surveillance systems for foodborne pathogens also track outbreaks, illnesses, hospitalization and deaths due to non-cholera vibrios. Considering the recognition of vibriosis as a notifiable disease in the United States and the availability of diverse surveillance systems, there is a need for the development of easily deployed visualization and analysis approaches that can combine diverse data sources in an interactive manner. Current efforts to address this need are still limited. Visual analytics is an iterative process conducted via visual interfaces that involves collecting information, data preprocessing, knowledge representation, interaction, and decision making. We have utilized public domain outbreak and surveillance data sources covering 1973 to 2010, as well as visual analytics software to demonstrate integrated and interactive visualizations of data on foodborne outbreaks and surveillance of Vibrio species. Through the data visualization, we were able to identify unique patterns and/or novel relationships within and across datasets regarding (i) causative agent; (ii) foodborne outbreaks and illness per state; (iii) location of infection; (iv) vehicle (food) of infection; (v) anatomical site of isolation of Vibrio species; (vi) patients and complications of vibriosis; (vii) incidence of laboratory-confirmed vibriosis and V. parahaemolyticus outbreaks. The additional use of emerging visual analytics approaches for interaction with data on vibriosis, including non-foodborne related disease, can guide disease control and prevention as well as ongoing outbreak investigations.