bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergency Medical Service Hospital Prenotification Is Associated With Improved Evaluation and Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Lin Cheryl B. , Peterson Eric D. , Smith Eric E. , Saver Jeffrey L. , Liang Li , Xian Ying , Olson DaiWai M. , Shah Bimal R. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Schwamm Lee H. , Fonarow Gregg C.
Published: July 2012

Background—

The benefits of intravenous tissue-plasminogen activator (tPA) in acute ischemic stroke are time-dependent. Emergency medical services (EMS) hospital prenotification of an incoming patient with potential stroke may provide a means of reducing evaluation and treatment times and improving treatment rates; yet, available data are limited.

Methods and Results—

We examined 371 988 patients with acute ischemic stroke transported by EMS and enrolled in
Get With The Guidelines–Stroke
from April 1, 2003, to March 31, 2011. Prenotification occurred in 249 197 (67.0%) of EMS-transported patients. Among eligible patients arriving by 2 hours, patients with EMS prenotification were more likely to be treated with tPA within 3 hours (82.8% versus 79.2%, absolute difference +3.5%,
P
<0.0001, the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale-documented cohort; 73.0% versus 64.0%, absolute difference +9.0%,
P
<0.0001, overall cohort). Patients with EMS prenotification had shorter door-to–imaging times (26 minutes versus 31 minutes,
P
<0.0001), shorter door-to–needle times (78 minutes versus 80 minutes,
P
<0.0001), and shorter symptom onset-to–needle times (141 minutes versus 145 minutes,
P
<0.0001). In multivariable and modified Poisson regression analyses accounting for the clustering of patients within hospitals, use of EMS prenotification was independently associated with greater likelihood of door-to–imaging times ≤25 minutes, door-to–needle times for tPA ≤60 minutes, onset-to–needle times ≤120 minutes, and tPA use within 3 hours.

Conclusions—

EMS hospital prenotification is associated with improved evaluation, timelier stroke treatment, and more eligible patients treated with tPA. These results support the need for initiatives targeted at increasing EMS prenotification rates as a mechanism from improving quality of care and outcomes in stroke.
Decreased Functional Connectivity by Aging Is Associated with Cognitive Decline
Authors: Onoda Keiichi , Ishihara Masaki , Yamaguchi Shuhei
Published: July 2012

Aging is related to cognitive decline, and it has been reported that aging disrupts some resting state brain networks. However, most studies have focused on the default mode network and ignored other resting state networks. In this study, we measured resting state activity using fMRI and explored whether cognitive decline with aging is related to disrupted resting state networks. Independent component analysis was used to evaluate functional connectivity. Notably, the connectivity within the salience network that consisted of the bilateral insula and the anterior cingulated cortex decreased with aging; the impairment of functional connectivity was correlated with measured decreases in individual cognitive abilities. Furthermore, certain internetwork connectivities (salience to auditory, default mode to visual, etc.) also decreased with aging. These results suggest that (1) aging affects not only the default mode network but also other networks, specifically the salience network; (2) aging affects internetwork connectivity; and (3) disruption of the salience network is related to cognitive decline in elderly people.
Soundspheres: Resonant Chamber
Authors: Thün Geoffrey , Velikov Kathy , Ripley Colin , Sauvé Lisa , McGee Wes
Published: July 2012

This paper develops a brief historical account of the architectural development of auditory space and identifies the “soundsphere” as an acoustic project that connects the interrelationships between material, spatial form and sound. The instrumental design of the soundsphere has focused on three types of shells: hard, static, and inflexible; physically manipulable; and immaterial (or electroacoustic). This frames a disciplinary and historical context for Resonant Chamber, a prototype-based design research project that develops a kinetic and interactive interior envelope system aimed at transforming the acoustic environment through dynamic spatial, material, and electroacoustic technologies.
Armed Conflicts, 1946–2011
Authors: Themnér Lotta , Wallensteen Peter
Published: July 2012

In 2011, the Uppsala Conflict Data Program (UCDP) recorded 37 armed conflicts with a minimum of 25 battle-related deaths. This significant increase from the 31 conflicts recorded in 2010 was primarily driven by an increase in conflicts on the African continent, and is only in part due to events tied to the Arab Spring which mostly led to other forms of violence than conventional armed conflict. The number of active conflicts still remains at a relatively low level compared to the peak years in the early 1990s, when more than 50 conflicts were active. The number of wars – conflicts leading to 1,000 or more battle-related deaths – increased to six; however, it is a considerably lower number than during the peak years of the early 1990s. For the second consecutive year, Afghanistan claimed the highest number of fatalities. Five armed conflicts listed for 2010 were not active in 2011, but during the year three new conflicts erupted – Libya, South Sudan and Sudan (Abyei) – and six conflicts already registered were restarted. Only one peace agreement was concluded during the year. Thus, the trend with low numbers of peace accords which started in 2009 continues.
City Size Distribution as a Function of Socioeconomic Conditions: An Eclectic Approach to Downscaling Global Population
Authors: Nam Kyung-Min , Reilly John M.
Published: July 2012

This study introduces a new method of downscaling global population distribution. Its novelty is that it allows city size distributions to interact with socioeconomic variables. The contribution to the literature is twofold. One is a challenge to the conventional view that the proportionate growth dynamics underlies empirical rank–size regularities. It is shown that the city size distribution of a region can deviate substantially from a log-normal distribution with cross-regional and time variations, and that such variations can be explained by certain socioeconomic conditions that each region confronts at a particular time point. In addition, this study can pave the way for various research projects which need spatial distribution of global population at fine grid cell levels as key input. The model is applicable to the entire globe, including regions for which reliable sub-regional population datasets are limitedly available, and can be extended easily for predictive analysis.
Roland Allen and the Coming Kingdom
Authors: Schmidt Robert F.
Published: July 2012

Roland Allen’s emphasis on the ministry in missionary churches opens the door to a number of ways in which the church can work to change society, and he makes some very important connections between the promises of the prophets, Jesus announcement of the coming kingdom, and Paul’s missionary methods. In doing so, he again invites the church to bring the good news of the Kingdom of God to the modern world.
The Humanities under Siege?
Authors: D’haen Theo
Published: July 2012

Everywhere in Europe the humanities, and within the humanities particularly the study of languages and literatures, are increasingly under pressure from reductions in staff numbers and research funding. This is a pity, because the capital – both cultural and economic - the humanities, and the study of languages and literatures, represent is considerable. Moreover, boosting the humanities requires relatively little investment, certainly in comparison to the pure and exact sciences. However, the humanities should not expect to be saved by simply continuing in the tracks of the last century or so. Instead, they should aim to better ‘sell’ themselves in the era of globalization.
New Pathways for Rethinking Literary Studies in the 21st Century
Authors: André Sylvie
Published: July 2012

This paper is to re-think the goals of literary studies at the hedge of the 21° century, questioning the idea of literature itself. Literature, as it is defined in Europe, is an ethnocentric notion, related to the theory of nation-state from the 19° century. National literatures are also the major frame for comparative studies. So literature and literary studies must change and focus on contemporary challenges: globalization and new media. Nowadays, literary studies and teaching can not anymore be so tightly linked with nation or democratic state building. Teaching has to offer a wider range of cultural marks for young people. From now on, the major goals of researchers might be a theoretical analyze of the process of representation by language itself (very similar for all human sciences) and an analyze of literature as a aesthetic activity (very similar in all types of societies).
The Study of Arabic
Authors: Carter Michael
Published: July 2012

Arabic is an important language in several respects, and there is a long history of contact between Muslims and the non-Muslim West which justifies the study of Islamic culture. The relations between the two are briefly described, as a background to the consequences of 19th century imperialism. The paper then examines the dual linguistic status of Arabic, as a language both of revelation and everyday intercourse. The unique rôle of the Islamic Adam as the first speaker of Arabic leads to a discussion of the power vested in Arabic by virtue of its religious function. To maintain its power an educational system was developed to train scholars to preserve the enormous archive of literary material which records the history of Islam and guarantees its survival, increasing the dependence of Islam upon Arabic. However, the religion does not suppress individuality, and the paper argues that Arabic literature is full of humanist observations on the strengths and weakness of mankind, all of us sons of Adam. The current situation of Classical Arabic is then reviewed: because it cannot change there cannot be (or not yet) a Reformation of the kind which happened in Europe, although contemporary written Arabic is gradually drifting away from the Classical standard. But the written language retains its power as the final recourse for all Islamic matters, and is now also playing a political rôle at the UN. Some recent studies of the use of Arabic in various domains are briefly mentioned, and the influence of Western linguistics on the teaching of Arabic, together with a fleeting glance at the effect of computers on the way the Qur’an is now experienced. The paper concludes by asking whether dialogue is possible or even necessary, with a negative answer. Instead a humanist approach is recommended, one in which Arabic culture is studied not for its intellectual challenges alone, but to enable us to recognise fellow sons of Adam across the borders of language.
The Place of Philosophy between Science and the Humanities
Authors: Kang Young Ahn
Published: July 2012

We hear frequently about the crisis of the humanities. The crisis of the humanities we experience nowadays is due to the economic logic of the capitalist system that everything is evalu-ated according to economic and social utility. Deeper reason for the crisis could be found in modern and contemporary humanities which lost their ideal of cultivating humanity for better life by nourishing human heart and mind. Philosophy confronts the same crisis by becoming a science, or the science providing ground for other sciences, and stopping to ask and reflect on the meaning of life. Other extreme is to make philosophy just a writing. At this point Kant is invited to suggest the way for philosophy between science and writing. Philosophy has at least three necessary conditions: human’s thinking ability (arguments and counterarguments), the practice of this talent on available texts, and a vast field of concrete life. Philosophy is not merely a science, a doctrine and not merely an edifying discourse, but also and primarily a way of life to control one’s passion, to rectify one’s heart and mind and to reflect on the meaning of life.
From Eurocentrism to a Polycentric Vision of the World: Advocacy for a Paradigm Shift
Authors: Samassékou Adama
Published: July 2012

Humanities and social sciences have so far adopted an approach keeping Europe at the heart of the scientific debates, to the detriment of the other continents and thus, of the other cultures in the world, relegated to the periphery of the dynamics of intellectual reflection and production. This Eurocentrism is also evident in the economic, socio-cultural, political and religious fields. The case of the relationships between Africa and Europe is quite enlightening.

The recent crisis, which is not only financial and economic but also cultural and more generally societal, reveals a loss of sense reinforced by the attempt to standardize the world’s cultures induced by the accelerated globalization leading to a real dehumanization of the relationships between individuals, peoples and States.

It is urgent to make a paradigm shift through the reconstruction of humanities and social sciences, in the perspective of a polycentrism based on cultural and linguistic diversity in the world and capable of strengthening the dialogue between cultures and civilizations, and therefore, peace in the world.
The effect of supplementation of calcium, vitamin D, boron, and increased fluoride intake on bone mechanical properties and metabolic hormones in rat
Authors: Ghanizadeh G , Babaei M , Naghii Mohammad Reza , Mofid M , Torkaman G , Hedayati M
Published: July 2012

Evidence indicates that optimal nutrition plays a role in bone formation and maintenance. Besides major components of mineralization such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, other nutrients like boron and fluoride have beneficial role, too. In this study, 34 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control diet, fluoride, fluoride + boron, fluoride + calcium + vitamin D, and flouride + boron + calcium + vitamin D. Boron equal to 1.23 mg, calcium and vitamin D equal to 210 mg + 55 IU and fluoride equal to 0.7 mg/rat/day was added to their drinking water for 8 weeks. Plasma blood samples and bones were collected. Findings are evidence that fluoride + boron intake revealed significant positive effects on bone mechanical properties and bone metabolic hormones. These findings suggest that combined intake of these two elements has beneficial effects on bone stiffness and breaking strength comparing to even calcium + vitamin D supplementation. This evidence dealing with health problems related to bone and skeletal system in humans should justify further investigation of the role of boron and fluoride with other elements in relation to bone.
Interlink and coverage analysis for small satellite constellations
Authors: Cuollo Marco , Ortore Emiliano , Bunkheila Federico , Ulivieri Carlo
Published: July 2012

In this article, the use of both the well-known Walker constellations and a proposed Randomic one are studied focusing on the data exchange between small satellites and their coverage of the Earth. The term Randomic is adopted to define constellations that are composed of small satellites placed in orbits occasioned by ‘catching a ride’ on launchers intended for other payloads. Thus, if on the one hand this ‘piggyback’ configuration has the merit of saving launch costs, on the other hand the small satellites will generally end up in orbits not ideally suited to their intended mission. In any case, in order to ensure an appropriate communication chain between the satellites, Bit Error Rate has to be kept below certain levels and this in turn requires keeping satellites within appropriate limits of distance and relative velocity. Following a statistical analysis over the past decade of launches, aimed at establishing the most exploitable orbits for ‘piggyback’ configurations, an investigation into the use of this type of constellation has been conducted. The comparison with an optimal Walker configuration has highlighted the better performance of the Walker and the significant reduction of mission expenditure of the Randomic constellation.
Free radical polymerization aided self-healing
Authors: Zhang Chun Yuan , Jiang Xiao Bo , Rong Min Zhi , Zhang Ming Qiu
Published: July 2012

To impart self-healing ability to epoxy, styrene-loaded and benzoyl peroxide–loaded microcapsules were prepared by in situ polymerization in emulsion using melamine–formaldehyde resin as the wall former. Afterward, the two types of microcapsules were embedded in epoxy to produce self-healing epoxy composite. Upon fracture of the material, the core substances in the broken capsules were released and polymerization of styrene initiated by benzoyl peroxide took place, rebinding the cracked planes. The parameters for manufacturing the microcapsules and the factors that influence healing efficiency of the system were discussed in detail.
Does participation in preventive child health care at the general practitioner minimise social differences in the use of specialist care outside the hospital system?
Authors: Mårtensson Solvej , Hansen Kristine Halling , Olsen Kim Rose , Højmark Torben Brunse , Petersen Jørgen Holm , Due Pernille
Published: July 2012

Introduction: The primary purposes of preventive child health care in Denmark are to help ensure a healthy childhood and to create preconditions for a healthy adult life. The aim of this study is to examine whether participation in age-appropriate preventative child health care affects the association between the socioeconomic position of the family and subsequent use of specialised health care outside the hospital system. Methods: The study population was children born in 1999 and living in Denmark between 1 January 2002 and 31 December 2006 ( n=68,366). The study investigated whether the number of contacts with a specialist in 2006 was related to participation in preventive child health care between 2002 and 2005. To control for the potential effect of difference in GP behaviour the data were analysed using a multilevel Poisson model linking each child to the GP with whom he or she was listed. Results: If the children attended any preventive child health care visits, they had the same probability of contact with a specialist regardless of the parents’ income. However, children from low-income families not participating in any preventive care had a lower probability of contact with a specialist than children from more affluent families. Conclusions: Ensuring participation in preventive child health care at the GP may reduce the social gap in utilisation of specialised health care that exists between children from families of different income levels.
Use of healthcare resources after gestational diabetes mellitus: A longitudinal case–control analysis
Authors: Anderberg Eva , Carlsson Katarina Steen , Berntorp Kerstin
Published: July 2012

Aims:

To analyse whether gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was associated with increases in healthcare utilisation after delivery.

Methods:

A longitudinal case–control registry-based study of 579 women with GDM delivered in 1995–2001. Two controls for each case were selected from the Swedish National Board of Health and Welfare, matched for year of birth, year of delivery, and municipality of residence. Data regarding healthcare utilisation was provided by the Patients’ Administrative System in Skåne County, Sweden, covering the period from the years of delivery up to year 2009.

Results:

Women with previous GDM had higher mean number of contacts and total cost in the years after delivery as compared to controls, also when excluding utilisation related to subsequent pregnancies and childbirth. By year 2009, 31% of women with prior GDM were diagnosed with diabetes, compared to 1% of controls. Women diagnosed with diabetes were more likely to use health care (odds ratio 14.22, 95% confidence interval 5.87–34.45) controlling for age and time since delivery, whereas cases not diagnosed with diabetes did not differ from controls. The average annual cost of healthcare utilisation was 101% higher ( p<0.001) for women with diabetes 10 years after delivery compared to controls.

Conclusions:

GDM was associated with higher healthcare utilisation postpartum for women who had a diabetes diagnosis. The results call for implementation of structured programmes to follow up women with GDM postpartum for early detection of diabetes and effective management, which may have the potential for improved health and savings in healthcare costs.
Patients’ experiences with metaphors in a solution-focused approach to improve self-management skills: A qualitative study
Authors: Solberg Hege , Nysether Gerd E. , Steinsbekk Aslak
Published: July 2012

Aim:

To explore how participants taking part in a session based on a solution-focused approach to enhance self-management skills experienced the metaphor “Captain of the ship” used in the educational material.

Methods:

A qualitative study with semi-structured focus group interviews with 16 participants in different self-management programmes. The educational material used the metaphor “Captain of the ship”. The material had pictures of a turtle who was “Captain of the ship” in different situations. The pictures were accompanied by solution-focused questions.

Results:

Most of the participants found the metaphor “Captain of the ship” very helpful. They reported that it was easy to remember, enhanced the learning process, and could be used as a practical tool in everyday situations. Furthermore, the metaphor helped them to become more aware of their own responsibility for self-management.

Conclusions:

The metaphor “Captain of the ship” was experienced as strengthening the messages from the solution-focused approach.
Meta-analysis of the association between angiotensin II receptor, type 1 gene A1166C polymorphism and coronary artery disease in Chinese populations
Authors: Li Yuqiong , Li Xiaobo , Jia Nan , Guo Shujie , Chu Shaoli , Niu Wenquan
Published: July 2012

Background and objective:

Many studies have examined the association between the angiotensin II receptor, type 1 ( AGTR1) gene A1166C polymorphism and coronary artery disease (CAD); the results, however, remain controversial. Given the accumulation of data, we conducted a meta-analysis of published studies on this association in Chinese.

Methods and results:

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Wanfang and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases was conducted before January 2012. Data and study quality were assessed in duplicate. Twenty-two studies totaling 3502 CAD patients and 3071 controls were analyzed. Overall, individuals carrying 1166C allele had a remarkably increased risk of CAD compared with those with 1166AA genotype (odds ratio (OR)=1.63; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.26-2.1; P<0.0005). In subgroup analyses by geography, the risk magnitude was slightly augmented in northern Chinese (OR=1.76; 95% CI: 1.23-2.52; P=0.002) relative to in southern Chinese (OR=1.55; 95% CI: 1.13-2.14; P=0.007). Grouping studies by average age detected a strong association in studies involving CAD patients aged ≥ 60 years. Differences in the diagnosis of CAD and source of controls might be potential sources of between-study heterogeneity.

Conclusions:

Our findings provided strong evidence that AGTR1 gene A1166C polymorphism might be a genetic marker for the development of CAD in Chinese populations, especially in the context of studies with northern and older subjects.
Effect of momentum slip on double-diffusive free convective boundary layer flow of a nanofluid past a convectively heated vertical plate
Authors: Khan Waqar A , Uddin Mohammed Jashim , Ismail Ahmad I Md
Published: July 2012

The Buongiorno and Darcy models have been used to investigate the effects of momentum slip on the double-diffusive free convective flow past a convectively heated vertical plate in a medium saturated with nanofluids. The vertical plate has uniform surface temperature, solutal and nanoparticle concentrations. The governing transport equations are transformed into four nonlinear, coupled similarity equations using similarity transformations developed by scaling group transformation, and are solved numerically to obtain the dimensionless functions in the respective boundary layers and the dimensionless heat and mass transfer rates. The solution depends on various dimensionless numbers, and nanofluid, double-diffusion and slip parameters. The results of the present paper show that the flow velocity, temperature, nanoparticle concentration, reduced local Nusselt and reduced Sherwood numbers are strongly influenced by the hydrodynamic slip parameter.
Student civic participation in school: What makes a difference in Ireland?
Authors: Gilleece Lorraine , Cosgrove Jude
Published: July 2012

Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child provides for the views of the child to be given due weight in accordance with the child’s age and maturity. Legislation in Ireland recognizes the rights of children to have a voice in educational matters. Based on a sample of 2838 14-year-olds in Ireland and using questionnaire data from the International Civic and Citizenship Education Study, this paper uses a multilevel model to examine the student and school characteristics associated with civic participation at school. Results indicate that boys have lower levels of civic participation at school than girls, but among boys only, civic participation at school varies in accordance with levels of perceived influence on decision making. Findings are discussed in the context of the rights of children to participate in decisions that affect them and with reference to Bandura’s social cognitive theory.
Educational interventions to improve the effectiveness in clinical competence of general practitioners: problem-based versus critical reading-based learning
Authors: Gongora-Ortega Javier , Segovia-Bernal Yolanda , Valdivia-Martinez J de Jesus , Galaviz-deAnda J Martin , Prado-Aguilar Carlos A
Published: July 2012

Background

Evidence suggests that continuing medical education improves the clinical competence of general practitioners and the quality of health care services. Thus, we evaluated the relative impact of two educational strategies, critical reading (CR) and problem based learning (PBL), on the clinical competence of general practitioners in a healthcare system characterized by excessive workload and fragmentation into small primary healthcare centers.

Methods

Clinical competence was evaluated in general practitioners assigned to three groups based on the educational interventions used: 1) critical reading intervention; 2) problem based learning intervention; and 3) no intervention (control group, which continued clinical practice as normal). The effect on the clinical competence of general practitioners was evaluated in three dimensions: the cognitive dimension, via a self-administered questionnaire; the habitual behavioral dimension, via information from patient’s medical records; and the affective dimension, through interviews with patients. A paired Student´s t-test was used to evaluate the changes in the mean clinical competence scores before and after the intervention, and a 3 x 2 ANOVA was used to analyze groups, times and their interaction.

Results

Nine general practitioners participated in the critical reading workshop, nine in the problem-based learning workshop, and ten were assigned to the control group. The participants exhibited no significant differences in clinical competence measures at baseline, or in socio-demographic or job characteristics (p > 0.05). Significant improvements in all three dimensions (cognitive, 45.67 vs 54.89; habitual behavioral, 53.78 vs 82.33; affective, 4.16 vs 4.76) were only observed in the problem-based learning group after the intervention (p > 0.017).

Conclusions

While no differences in post-intervention scores were observed between groups, we conclude that problem-based learning can be effective, particularly in a small-group context. Indeed, problem-based learning was the only strategy to induce a significant difference between pre– and post- intervention scores for all three CC dimensions.
Effects of molecular structural variants on serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 levels in sarcoidosis
Authors: Shigemura Masahiko , Nasuhara Yasuyuki , Konno Satoshi , Shimizu Chikara , Matsuno Kazuhiko , Yamaguchi Etsuro , Nishimura Masaharu
Published: July 2012

Background

Serum Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6), which is classified as human mucin-1 (MUC1), is used as a marker of sarcoidosis and other interstitial lung diseases. However, there remain some limitations due to a lack of information on the factors contributing to increased levels of serum KL-6. This study was designed to investigate the factors contributing to increased levels of serum KL-6 by molecular analysis.

Methods

Western blot analysis using anti-KL-6 antibody was performed simultaneously on the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum obtained from 128 subjects with sarcoidosis.

Results

KL-6/MUC1 in BALF showed three bands and five band patterns. These band patterns were associated with the MUC1 genotype and the KL-6 levels. KL-6/MUC1 band patterns in serum were dependent on molecular size class in BALF. Significantly increased levels of serum KL-6, serum/BALF KL-6 ratio and serum soluble interleukin 2 receptor were observed in the subjects with influx of high molecular size KL-6/MUC1 from the alveoli to blood circulation. The multivariate linear regression analysis involving potentially relevant variables such as age, gender, smoking status, lung parenchymal involvement based on radiographical stage and molecular size of KL-6/MUC1 in serum showed that the molecular size of KL-6/MUC1 in serum was significant independent determinant of serum KL-6 levels.

Conclusions

The molecular structural variants of KL-6/MUC1 and its leakage behavior affect serum levels of KL-6 in sarcoidosis. This information may assist in the interpretation of serum KL-6 levels in sarcoidosis.
Tripled coincidence point results for generalized contractions in ordered generalized metric spaces
Authors: Aydi Hassen , Karapınar Erdal , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: July 2012

In this paper, we establish some tripled coincidence point results for a mixed g-monotone mapping F : X
3 → X satisfying (ψ, ϕ)-contractions in ordered generalized metric spaces. Also, an application and some examples are given to support our results.
Prescription dose and fractionation predict improved survival after stereotactic radiotherapy for brainstem metastases
Authors: Leeman Jonathan E , Clump David A , Wegner Rodney E , Heron Dwight E , Burton Steven A , Mintz Arlan H
Published: July 2012

Background

Brainstem metastases represent an uncommon clinical presentation that is associated with a poor prognosis. Treatment options are limited given the unacceptable risks associated with surgical resection in this location. However, without local control, symptoms including progressive cranial nerve dysfunction are frequently observed. The objective of this study was to determine the outcomes associated with linear accelerator-based stereotactic radiotherapy or radiosurgery (SRT/SRS) of brainstem metastases.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 38 tumors in 36 patients treated with SRT/SRS between February 2003 and December 2011. Treatment was delivered with the Cyberknife™ or Trilogy™ radiosurgical systems. The median age of patients was 62 (range: 28–89). Primary pathologies included 14 lung, 7 breast, 4 colon and 11 others. Sixteen patients (44%) had received whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) prior to SRT/SRS; ten had received prior SRT/SRS at a different site (28%). The median tumor volume was 0.94 cm3 (range: 0.01-4.2) with a median prescription dose of 17 Gy (range: 12–24) delivered in 1–5 fractions.

Results

Median follow-up for the cohort was 3.2 months (range: 0.4-20.6). Nineteen patients (52%) had an MRI follow-up available for review. Of these, one patient experienced local failure corresponding to an actuarial 6-month local control of 93%. Fifteen of the patients with available follow-up imaging (79%) experienced intracranial failure outside of the treatment volume. The median time to distant intracranial failure was 2.1 months. Six of the 15 patients with distant intracranial failure (40%) had received previous WBRT. The actuarial overall survival rates at 6- and 12-months were 27% and 8%, respectively. Predictors of survival included Graded Prognostic Assessment (GPA) score, greater number of treatment fractions, and higher prescription dose. Three patients experienced acute treatment-related toxicity consisting of nausea (n = 1) and headaches (n = 2) that resolved with a short-course of dexamethasone.

Conclusion

SRT/SRS for brainstem metastases is safe and achieves a high rate of local control. We found higher GPA as well as greater number of treatment fractions and higher prescription dose to be correlated with improved overall survival. Despite this approach, prognosis remains poor and distant intracranial control remains an issue, even in patients previously treated with WBRT.
Analysis of the association between CD40 and CD40 ligand polymorphisms and systemic sclerosis
Authors: Teruel María , Simeon Carmen P , Broen Jasper , Vonk Madelon C , Carreira Patricia , Camps Maria Teresa , García-Portales Rosa , Delgado-Frías Esmeralda , Gallego Maria , Espinosa Gerard ,   the Spanish Scleroderma Group, Beretta Lorenzo , Airó Paolo , Lunardi Claudio , Riemekasten Gabriela , Witte Torsten , Krieg Thomas , Kreuter Alexander , Distler Jörg HW , Hunzelmann Nicolas , Koeleman Bobby P , Voskuyl Alexandre E , Schuerwegh Annemie J , González-Gay Miguel Ángel , Radstake Timothy RDJ , Martin Javier
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible role of CD40 and CD40 ligand (CD40LG) genes in the susceptibility and phenotype expression of systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

In total, 2,670 SSc patients and 3,245 healthy individuals from four European populations (Spain, Germany, The Netherlands, and Italy) were included in the study. Five single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CD40 (rs1883832, rs4810485, rs1535045) and CD40LG (rs3092952, rs3092920) were genotyped by using a predesigned TaqMan allele-discrimination assay technology. Meta-analysis was assessed to determine whether an association exists between the genetic variants and SSc or its main clinical subtypes.

Results

No evidence of association between CD40 and CD40LG genes variants and susceptibility to SSc was observed. Similarly, no significant statistical differences were observed when SSc patients were stratified by the clinical subtypes, the serologic features, and pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions

Our results do not suggest an important role of CD40 and CD40LG gene polymorphisms in the susceptibility to or clinical expression of SSc.
Interest of a simple on-line screening registry for measuring ICU burden related to an influenza pandemic
Authors: Richard Jean-Christophe Marie , Pham Tài , Brun-Buisson Christian , Reignier Jean , Mercat Alain , Beduneau Gaëtan , Régnier Bernard , Mourvillier Bruno , Guitton Christophe , Castanier Matthias , Combes Alain , Tulzo Yves Le , Brochard Laurent ,   the REVA study group
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The specific burden imposed on Intensive Care Units (ICUs) during the A/H1N1 influenza 2009 pandemic has been poorly explored. An on-line screening registry allowed a daily report of ICU beds occupancy rate by flu infected patients (Flu-OR) admitted in French ICUs.

Methods

We conducted a prospective inception cohort study with results of an on-line screening registry designed for daily assessment of ICU burden.

Results

Among the 108 centers participating to the French H1N1 research network on mechanical ventilation (REVA) - French Society of Intensive Care (SRLF) registry, 69 ICUs belonging to seven large geographical areas voluntarily participated in a website screening-registry. The aim was to daily assess the ICU beds occupancy rate by influenza-infected and non-infected patients for at least three weeks. Three hundred ninety-one critically ill infected patients were enrolled in the cohort, representing a subset of 35% of the whole French 2009 pandemic cohort; 73% were mechanically ventilated, 13% required extra corporal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and 22% died. The global Flu-OR in these ICUs was only 7.6%, but it exceeded a predefined 15% critical threshold in 32 ICUs for a total of 103 weeks. Flu-ORs were significantly higher in University than in non-University hospitals. The peak ICU burden was poorly predicted by observations obtained at the level of large geographical areas.

Conclusions

The peak Flu-OR during the pandemic significantly exceeded a 15% critical threshold in almost half of the ICUs, with an uneven distribution with time, geographical areas and between University and non-University hospitals. An on-line assessment of Flu-OR via a simple dedicated registry may contribute to better match resources and needs.
Changes in the nitric oxide system in the shore crab Hemigrapsus sanguineus (Crustacea, decapoda) CNS induced by a nociceptive stimulus
Authors: Dyuizen Inessa V. , Kotsyuba Elena P. , Lamash Nina E.
Published: July 2012

Using NADPH-diaphorase (NADPH-d) histochemistry, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)-immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting, we characterized the nitric oxide (NO)-producing neurons in the brain and thoracic ganglion of a shore crab subjected to a nociceptive chemical stimulus. Formalin injection into the cheliped evoked specific nociceptive behavior and neurochemical responses in the brain and thoracic ganglion of experimental animals. Within 5–10 min of injury, the NADPH-d activity increased mainly in the neuropils of the olfactory lobes and the lateral antenna I neuropil on the side of injury. Later, the noxious-induced expression of NADPH-d and iNOS was detected in neurons of the brain, as well as in segmental motoneurons and interneurons of the thoracic ganglion. Western blotting analysis showed that an iNOS antiserum recognized a band at 120 kDa, in agreement with the expected molecular mass of the protein. The increase in nitrergic activity induced by nociceptive stimulation suggests that the NO signaling system may modulate nociceptive behavior in crabs.
Sex differences in fuel use and metabolism during development in fasting juvenile northern elephant seals
Authors: Kelso Elizabeth J. , Champagne Cory D. , Tift Michael S. , Houser Dorian S. , Crocker Daniel E.
Published: July 2012

Many polygynous, capital breeders exhibit sexual dimorphism with respect to body size and composition. Sexual dimorphism is often facilitated by sex differences in foraging behavior, growth rates and patterns of nutrient deposition during development. In species that undergo extended fasts during development, metabolic strategies for fuel use have the potential to influence future reproductive success by directly impacting somatic growth and acquisition of traits required for successful breeding. We investigated sexual dimorphism associated with metabolic strategies for fasting in developing northern elephant seals. Thirty-one juvenile seals of both sexes were sampled over extended fasts during annual autumn haul-outs. Field metabolic rate (FMR) and the contribution of protein catabolism to energy expenditure were estimated from changes in mass and body composition over 23±5 days of fasting (mean ± s.d.). Protein catabolism was assessed directly in a subset of animals based on urea flux at the beginning and end of the fast. Regulatory hormones and blood metabolites measured included growth hormone, cortisol, thyroxine, triiodothyronine, insulin, glucagon, testosterone, estradiol, glucose, urea and β-hydroxybutyrate. Males exhibited higher rates of energy expenditure during the fast but spared body protein stores more effectively than females. Rates of protein catabolism and energy expenditure were significantly impacted by hormone levels, which varied between the sexes. These data suggest that sex differences in fuel metabolism and energy expenditure during fasting arise early in juvenile development and may play an important role in the development of adult traits associated with reproductive success.
Quantitative analysis of crypt cell population during postnatal development of the olfactory organ of the guppy, Poecilia reticulata (Teleostei, Poecilidae), from birth to sexual maturity
Authors: Bettini Simone , Lazzari Maurizio , Franceschini Valeria
Published: July 2012

Crypt cells are one of three types of olfactory sensory neuron, differing from ciliated and microvillar cells in shape, localization and number, and found only in fish. Although crypt cells are morphologically well characterized, their function remains unclear. They were hypothesized to be involved in reproductive behaviours by detecting sex pheromones, but electrophysiological investigations revealed sensitivity to only amino acids. However, the number of crypt cells in adult guppies is not the same in the two sexes. In this study, we compared the size of the crypt cell population in juvenile guppies during the first 90 days after birth. The purpose of our study was to clarify whether a correlation exists between sex and the number of these olfactory neurons. The data show that guppies reach adult crypt cell density when they become sexually mature. Despite a constant increment in volume during development of the olfactory organ, the minimum density of crypt neurons occurs at ∼45 days. Moreover, in the early weeks, the density of crypt neurons is greater in males than in females because in females the total number of cells decreases significantly after just 7 days. In adults, however, crypt neurons are found in higher density in females than in males. These findings suggest that the number of crypt cells is sex specific, with independent developmental dynamics between males and females. A role in pheromone detection could explain such a difference, but the early appearance of crypt cells in the first days of life is suggestive of other, not sexually related, functions.
From genes to behavior: investigations of neurochemical signaling come of age for the model crustacean

Daphnia pulex
Authors: Christie Andrew E. , McCoole Matthew D.
Published: July 2012

The cladoceran crustacean Daphnia pulex has served as a standard organism for aquatic toxicity testing for decades. The model organism status of D. pulex rests largely on its remarkable ability to rapidly adapt morphologically, physiologically and behaviorally to a wide range of environmental challenges, as well as on its parthenogenetic reproduction and ease of laboratory culture. As in all multicellular organisms, neurochemical control systems are undoubtedly major contributors to the functional flexibility of Daphnia. Surprisingly, little work has focused on understanding its neurochemistry at any level. Recently, D. pulex has been the subject of extensive genome and transcriptome sequencing, and it is currently the only crustacean with a fully sequenced, publicly accessible genome. Although the molecular work was initiated for gene-based investigations of ecotoxicology and toxicogenomics, the data generated have allowed for investigations into numerous aspects of Daphnia biology, including its neurochemical signaling. This Commentary summarizes our knowledge of D. pulex neurochemistry obtained from recent genomic and transcriptomic studies, and places these data in context with other anatomical, biochemical and physiological experiments using D. pulex and its sister species Daphnia magna. Suggestions as to how the Daphnia molecular data may be useful for future investigations of crustacean neurochemical signaling are also provided.
The metabolic cost of walking on gradients with a waddling gait
Authors: Nudds Robert L. , Codd Jonathan R.
Published: July 2012

Using open-flow respirometry and video footage (25 frames s–1), the energy expenditure and hindlimb kinematics of barnacle geese, Branta leucopsis, were measured whilst they were exercising on a treadmill at gradients of +7 and –7 deg, and on a level surface. In agreement with previous studies, ascending a gradient incurred metabolic costs higher than those experienced on level ground at comparable speeds. The geese, however, are the first species to show an increased duty factor when ascending a gradient. This increased duty factor was accompanied by a longer stance time, which was probably to enable the additional force required for ascending to be generated. Contrary to previous findings, the geese did not experience decreased metabolic costs when descending a gradient. For a given speed, the geese took relatively shorter and quicker strides when walking downhill. This ‘choppy’ stride and perhaps a lack of postural plasticity (an inability to adopt a more crouched posture) may negate any energy savings gained from gravity's assistance in moving the centre of mass downhill. Also contrary to previous studies, the incremental increase in metabolic cost with increasing speed was similar for each gradient, indicating that the efficiency of locomotion (mechanical work done/chemical energy consumed) is not constant across all walking speeds. The data here suggest that there are species-specific metabolic responses to locomotion on slopes, as well as the established kinematics differences. It is likely that a suite of factors, such as ecology, posture, gait, leggedness and foot morphology, will subtly affect an organism's ability to negotiate gradients.
Design and properties of biopolymer–silica hybrid materials: The example of pectin-based biodegradable hydrogels
Authors: Agoudjil Nouria , Sicard Clémence , Jaouen Vincent , Garnier Catherine , Bonnin Estelle , Steunou Nathalie , Coradin Thibaud
Published: July 2012

The association of natural polymers with silica is a fruitful strategy to design novel hybrid structures with potential applications in the fields of biotechnology, medicine, and environmental sciences. Here we illustrate the principles of formation, the structure, and the properties of such biohybrid systems by the specific example of silica–pectin porous materials. The influence of the silica source, i.e., aqueous silicates and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS), was more specifically addressed. The alkoxide precursor may be associated with the polysaccharide in a wide range of concentrations. In contrast, the high initial viscosity and fast condensation rate of silicates limits the range of accessible compositions. Owing to weak interactions between the mineral and organic components, silicification does not improve the thermal stability of the polymer but has a strong impact on the water stability of the materials, which depends on the silica source. It is shown that the stability of the silica–pectin hybrid materials during enzymatic degradation is optimum for low carbohydrate content and high silica content, independently of the inorganic precursor.
The Most Delectable of Languages
Authors: Heller-Roazen Daniel
Published: July 2012

This essay explores the ways in which a single tongue can be said to be, in Brunetto Latini’s phrase, at once “delectable” and “common.” It is argued that such titles are suited to medieval texts that trouble the limits of individual languages and, further, that they pertain in exemplary fashion to a restricted but complex corpus of medieval poems that are written in several languages at once.
Readers and Compilators of Ausiàs March’s Poetry in Barcelona (BNE, MS 2985)
Authors: Lloret Albert
Published: July 2012

This article offers a codicological description of the most complete extant manuscript containing the poetry of Ausiàs March (Valencia, 1400–1459). It lays out the material characteristics of the codex, and sets them in contrast with a matrix of relevant features from other witnesses of March’s poetry. As a result, this study uncovers several of the stages in the compilatory process of the manuscript and argues for it having been originally owned by Ferrando de Cardona, Admiral of Naples and Duke of Somma
(Naples, 1521-Sant Cugat del Vallès, 1571).
Wounds
Authors: Aidt Naja Marie
Published: July 2012

While I sat on the edge of a chair, naked and dripping wet, I tried to accept the fact that it would be four days before I could leave.