bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intensive Care Unit Outcomes Among Patients With Lung Cancer in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare Registry
Authors: Slatore Christopher G. , Cecere Laura M. , LeTourneau Jennifer L. , O'Neil Maya E. , Duckart Jonathan P. , Wiener Renda Soylemez , Farjah Farhood , Cooke Colin R.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Intensive care unit (ICU) use among patients with cancer is increasing, but data regarding ICU outcomes for patients with lung cancer are limited.

Patients and Methods

We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) –Medicare registry (1992 to 2007) to conduct a retrospective cohort study of patients with lung cancer who were admitted to an ICU for reasons other than surgical resection of their tumor. We used logistic and Cox regression to evaluate associations of patient characteristics and hospital mortality and 6-month mortality, respectively. We calculated adjusted associations for mechanical ventilation receipt with hospital and 6-month mortality.

Results

Of the 49,373 patients with lung cancer admitted to an ICU for reasons other than surgical resection, 76% of patients survived the hospitalization, and 35% of patients were alive 6 months after discharge. Receipt of mechanical ventilation was associated with increased hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 6.95; 95% CI, 6.89 to 7.01; P < .001), and only 15% of these patients were alive 6 months after discharge. Of all ICU patients with lung cancer, the percentage of patients who survived 6 months from discharge was 36% for patients diagnosed in 1992 and 32% for patients diagnosed in 2005, whereas it was 16% and 11% for patients who received mechanical ventilation, respectively.

Conclusion

Most patients with lung cancer enrolled in Medicare who are admitted to an ICU die within 6 months of admission. To improve patient-centered care, these results should guide shared decision making between patients with lung cancer and their clinicians before an ICU admission.
Teaching the Intangible
Authors: Ng Andrew Hock Soon
Published: April 2012

This article argues that teaching Asian American literature should include immeasurable and nontangible factors that accompany racial grief, such as cultural betrayal, the trauma of belonging interstitially, and the sensation of displacement. I propose that these be introduced via a gothic motif, such as the double, haunting, and possession by ghosts. Such motifs have the advantage of familiarity (or, if not, are quite easy to explain) and being psychoanalytically informed.
The RNA-Binding Protein Human Antigen R Controls Global Changes in Gene Expression during Schwann Cell Development
Authors: Iruarrizaga-Lejarreta Marta , Varela-Rey Marta , Lozano Juan José , Fernández-Ramos David , Rodríguez-Ezpeleta Naiara , Embade Nieves , Lu Shelly C. , van der Kraan Peter M. , Blaney Davidson Esmeralda N. , Gorospe Myriam , Mirsky Rhona , Jessen Kristján R. , Aransay Ana María , Mato José M. , Martínez-Chantar María L. , Woodhoo Ashwin
Published: April 2012

An important prerequisite to myelination in peripheral nerves is the establishment of one-to-one relationships between axons and Schwann cells. This patterning event depends on immature Schwann cell proliferation, apoptosis, and morphogenesis, which are governed by coordinated changes in gene expression. Here, we found that the RNA-binding protein human antigen R (HuR) was highly expressed in immature Schwann cells, where genome-wide identification of its target mRNAsin vivoin mouse sciatic nerves using ribonomics showed an enrichment of functionally related genes regulating these processes. HuR coordinately regulated expression of several genes to promote proliferation, apoptosis, and morphogenesis in rat Schwann cells, in response to NRG1, TGFβ, and laminins, three major signals implicated in this patterning event. Strikingly, HuR also binds to several mRNAs encoding myelination-related proteins but, contrary to its typical function, negatively regulated their expression, likely to prevent ectopic myelination during development. These functions of HuR correlated with its abundance and subcellular localization, which were regulated by different signals in Schwann cells.
Systemdynamische Konsequenzen von Mauterhebung und anderen Eingriffen in den Verkehr
Authors: Wior Ireneus , Fay Alexander
Published: April 2012

Die Einführung eines Mautsystems ermöglicht über monetäre Anreize gezielte und auf die Verkehrssituation angepasste Eingriffe in die Verkehrsströme, die jedoch auch zu unerwünschten Effekten führen können, da sich Eingriffe immer erst zeitverzögert im System ausbreiten und auswirken. Schwankungen der Fahrzeugströme bis hin zu Stockungen und Staus sind mögliche Folgen. In diesem Beitrag wird ein durch totzeitbehaftete Rückwirkungen erzeugter Schwingungseffekt in Verkehrsströmen vorgestellt und unter Stabilitätsgesichtspunkten untersucht.
Aktuelle Entwicklungen im Bereich kooperativer Verkehrssysteme
Authors: Wolf Franziska , Rauchhaupt Lutz , Schade Joachim
Published: April 2012

Applikationen der Fahrzeug-Fahrzeug und Fahrzeug-Infrastruktur-Kommunikation sollen zukünftig den Straßenverkehr sicherer und effizienter gestalten und bilden maßgebliche Grundlagen kommender Mautsysteme. Zukünftige Nutzungsszenarien stellen besondere Anforderungen an die technologischen Grundlagen. Aktuell entwickeln sich verschiedene Funktechnologien welche für kooperative Verkehrssysteme genutzt werden können. Besonders Standardisierungsaktivitäten bezüglich des neuen automotivefähigen WLAN-Standards IEEE 802.11p prüfen derzeit seine Praxistauglichkeit.
“Search-and-Replace”
Authors: Hummel Rhea
Published: April 2012

Artists are prototypical over-conscious individuals. For the exploration of the methodological issues of the study of the language used in life stories as expressions of modern worldviews, artists' cases are very useful. Their search for unique authenticity includes their worldview. They do not simply reproduce worldview repertoires, but select items that are subsequently given new meaning, producing a new and exclusive pattern. As a consequence, the grey area between religious and secular convictions is over-represented in artists' autobiographies. Thus the modern processes of individualization and secularization become visible in their life stories. In an interdisciplinary study of thirty life narratives of Dutch artists, the author has combined methodological insights from literary studies and the cultural anthropology of religion. The difficulty of generalizing about what is presented as unique and authentic is discussed, including the author's quest for a plausible typology. Special attention is given to the models that artists use for their life stories, and to the striking role of inconsistency in their accounts.
Cross-sectional descriptive study of topical self-medication in a hospital dermatology department in the state of São Paulo
Authors: Padoveze Emerson Henrique , Nascimento Luiz Fernando Costa , Ferreira Flávia Regina , Neves Viviane Scarpa da Costa
Published: April 2012

Self-medication involves individuals or their carers administering a medical drug of their own choice for symptomatic relief and in the hope of a "cure", without seeking professional medical advice.The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Dermatology Department of the Taubaté University Hospital was to identify the occurrence of self-medication for the topical treatment of skin diseases in young people under 18, and to analyze the difficulties encountered in the clinical diagnosis of these individuals.We examined 29 cases of self-medication (from a total of 480 attendances). Although self-medication is a common practice in Brazil our study showed that users were not significantly harmed by it.
Making leaps in amphibian ecotoxicology: translating individual‐level effects of contaminants to population viability
Authors: Willson J. D. , Hopkins W. A. , Bergeron C. M. , Todd B. D.
Published: April 2012

Concern that environmental contaminants contribute to global amphibian population declines has prompted extensive experimental investigation, but individual‐level experimental results have seldom been translated to population‐level processes. We used our research on the effects of mercury (Hg) on American toads (Bufo americanus) as a model for bridging the gap between individual‐level contaminant effects and amphibian population viability. We synthesized the results of previous field and laboratory studies examining effects of Hg throughout the life cycle of B. americanus and constructed a comprehensive demographic population model to evaluate the consequences of Hg exposure on population dynamics. Our model explicitly considered density‐dependent larval survival, which is known to be an important driver of amphibian population dynamics, and incorporated two important factors that have seldom been considered in previous amphibian modeling studies: environmental stochasticity and sublethal effects. We demonstrated that decreases in embryonic survival and sublethal effects (e.g., reduced body size) that delay maturation have minor effects on population dynamics, whereas contaminant effects that reduce late‐larval or post‐metamorphic survival have important population‐level consequences. We found that excessive Hg exposure through maternal transfer or larval diet, alone, had minor effects on B. americanus populations. Simultaneous maternal and dietary exposure resulted in reduced population size and a dramatic increase in extinction probability, but explicit prediction of population‐level effects was dependent on the strength of larval density dependence. Our results suggest that environmental contaminants can influence amphibian population viability, but that highly integrative approaches are needed to translate individual‐level effects to populations.
Effect of Cardiopulmonary Bypass on Annexin A1 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Children with Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Zhou Gengxu , Hong Xiaoyang , Liu Yuhang , Feng Zhichun
Published: April 2012

Effect of Cardiopulmonary Bypass on Annexin A1 Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Children with Congenital Heart Disease

This study aimed to investigate the effect of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) on Annexin A1 expression in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of children with congenital heart disease (CHD). A total of 30 children receiving CPB for interventricular septal defect were included. Peripheral blood was collected before and after CPB. PBMCs were collected by density gradient centrifugation. Protein extraction was performed by lysis and subjected to 2D-QUANT for protein quantitation. Isoelectric focusing electrophoresis (IEF) was carried out followed by gel image analysis. Protein spots with a difference in expression of >1.5 fold were collected as candidate proteins which were subjected to mass spectrometry for the identification of differentially expressed proteins. Western blot assay was employed to confirm the expressions of target proteins. Peripheral blood collected at two time points was subjected to two-dimensional electrophoresis, and a total of 12 differentially expressed proteins were identified. Of them, 5 proteins had decreased expression before CPB (T0) but their expressions increased after CPB (T1); the remaining 7 proteins had increased expressions before CPB but their expressions reduced after CPB. One of these differentially expressed proteins was Annexin A1. Western blot assay confirmed that Annexin A1 expression began to increase at 0.5 h after CPB, and the increase of Annexin A1 was more obvious after CPB. Our findings primarily indicate the potential mechanism underlying the role of PBMC in inflammatory response following CPB, and provide a target for the prevention and control of post-CPB systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
Seltenes und zerstreutes Vorkommen: Auswirkungen auf den Paarungserfolg des Speierlings
Authors: Kamm Urs , Gugerli Felix , Rotach Peter , Edwards Peter , Holderegger Rolf
Published: April 2012

Rare and scattered: consequences for the mating success of the service tree

Using a population genetic approach, we studied the effect of the highly scattered occurrence of the rare service tree (Sorbus domestica) in the canton of Schaffhausen (Switzerland) on the realised mating system. Therefore, we mapped all tree individuals in our extended study area and genotyped all 189 trees using microsatellites. Additionally, we genotyped 1183 seeds from 49 different mother trees and assigned the corresponding pollen-donor (father tree). We showed that effective pollinations occur over large spatial distances (>16 km). Because the amount of effectively dispersed pollen decreased with increasing distance from its source, the spatial position of a tree in relation to its conspecific neighbours has a significant impact on the genetic composition of its offspring (seeds) — the more isolated a tree was, the higher was the proportion of self-fertilised offspring. Based on these results, we discuss management strategies aimed at securing the survival and increasing the fecundity, in particular flowering, of adult trees in the study area. If priorities have to be set, trees belonging to denser local groups of service trees should be favoured as they have a higher potential to produce genetically diverse offspring. These progenies can be used to produce high-quality planting material for artificial regeneration, a conservation measure which we consider necessary since we observed no natural regeneration from seeds in the study area. Stands may be managed in a silvicultural practice similar to that of coppice-with-standards. Promoting the regeneration of light-demanding and rare forest tree species, like service tree, wild service tree, wild pear and wild apple, may allow them grow to mature trees of high value, both ecologically and economically.
LMP-420, a Small Molecular Inhibitor of TNF-α, Prolongs Islet Allograft Survival by Induction of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling-1: Synergistic Effect with Cyclosporin-A
Authors: Angaswamy Nataraju , Fukami Naohiko , Tiriveedhi Venkataswarup , Cianciolo George J. , Mohanakumar T.
Published: April 2012

Inflammatory insults following islet transplantation (ITx) hinders engraftment and long-term function of the transplanted (Tx) islets. Using a murine model of ITx, we determined the role of LMP-420, a novel TNF-α inhibitor, both individually and in combination with the immunosuppressant cyclosporine A (CSA) in islet engraftment and survival. Diabetic C57BL/6 mice were Tx with 500 BALB/c islets under the kidney capsule. Four cohorts were used: LMP-420 only, CSA only, combination of LMP-420 and CSA (LMP+CSA), and control ( n = 12 per cohort). Serial monitoring of blood glucose levels revealed that LMP+CSA (35 ± 5 days) prolonged stable blood insulin levels compared to control (6 ± 4 days). Immunohistology demonstrated that coadministration (LMP+CSA) results in a significant decrease in CD8+T-cell infiltration (LMP+CSA: 31 ± 18 vs. control: 224 ± 51 cells, p < 0.001). Serum cytokine analysis revealed that LMP-420 administration resulted in an increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 (2.5-fold), and a decrease in TNF-α (threefold) with no change in IL-2. However, coadministration resulted in a marked decrease in both IL-2 and TNF-α (threefold) along with increase in IL-10 (threefold). Coadministration also demonstrated increase of antiapoptotic SOCS-1 and Mn-SOD expression and significant reduction of donor-specific antibodies ( p < 0.005). In conclusion, LMP-420 administration with CSA results in the upregulation of anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic mechanisms which facilitate islet allograft engraftment and survival.
18F-FDG Cell Labeling May Underestimate Transplanted Cell Homing: More Accurate, Efficient, and Stable Cell Labeling with Hexadecyl-4-[18F]Fluorobenzoate for in Vivo Tracking of Transplanted Human Progenitor Cells by Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Zhang Yan , Dasilva Jean N. , Hadizad Tayebeh , Thorn Stephanie , Kuraitis Drew , Renaud Jennifer M. , Ahmadi Ali , Kordos Myra , Dekemp Robert A. , Beanlands Rob S. , Suuronen Erik J. , Ruel Marc
Published: April 2012

Cell therapy is expected to restore perfusion and improve function in the ischemic/infarcted myocardium; however, the biological mechanisms and local effects of transplanted cells remain unclear. To assess cell fate in vivo, hexadecyl-4-[18F]fluorobenzoate (18F-HFB) cell labeling was evaluated for tracking human circulating progenitor cells (CPCs) with positron emission tomography (PET) and was compared to the commonly used 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-d-glucose (18F-FDG) labeling method in a rat myocardial infarction model. CPCs were labeled with 18F-HFB or 18F-FDG ex vivo under the same conditions. 18F-HFB cell-labeling efficiency (23.4 ± 7.5%) and stability (4 h, 88.4 ± 6.0%) were superior to 18F-FDG (7.6 ± 4.1% and 26.6 ± 6.1%, respectively; p < 0.05). Neither labeling approach significantly altered cell viability, phenotype or migration potential up to 24 h postlabeling. Two weeks after left anterior descending coronary artery ligation, rats received echo-guided intramyocardial injection in the infarct border zone with 18F-HFB-CPCs, 18F-FDG-CPCs, 18F-HFB, or 18F-FDG. Dynamic PET imaging of both 18F-HFB-CPCs and 18F-FDG-CPCs demonstrated that only 16–37% of the initial injection dose (ID) was retained in the injection site at 10 min postdelivery, and remaining activity fell significantly over the first 4 h posttransplantation. The 18F-HFB-CPC signal in the target area at 2 h (23.7 ± 14.7% ID/g) and 4 h (17.6 ± 13.3% ID/g) postinjection was greater than that of 18F-FDG-CPCs (5.4 ± 2.3% ID/g and 2.6 ± 0.7% ID/g, respectively; p < 0.05). Tissue biodistribution confirmed the higher radioactivity in the border zone of 18F-HFB-CPC rats. Immunostaining of heart tissue sections revealed no significant difference in cell retention between two labeled cell transplantation groups. Good correlation with biodistribution results was observed in the 18F-HFB-CPC rats ( r = 0.81, p < 0.05). Compared to 18F-FDG, labeling human CPCs with 18F-HFB provides a more efficient, stable, and accurate way to quantify the distribution of transplanted cells. 18F-HFB cell labeling with PET imaging offers a better modality to enhance our understanding of early retention, homing, and engraftment with cardiac cell therapy.
Microsatellite development for an endangered riparian inhabitant, Lilaeopsis schaffneriana subsp. recurva (Apiaceae)
Authors: Tew Jessica M. , Lance Stacey L. , Jones Kenneth L. , Fehlberg Shannon D.
Published: April 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed and characterized to evaluate genetic diversity and population structure in Lilaeopsis schaffneriana subsp. recurva, an endangered species endemic to wetlands dispersed throughout southeastern Arizona, USA, and northern Sonora, Mexico.

• Methods and Results: Eight loci (one of which was monomorphic) were developed and characterized in 48 individuals from two populations. The total number of alleles was 35, ranging from one to 10 per locus. Many of the primers amplified in L. carolinensis, L. chinensis, L. masonii, L. occidentalis, L. schaffneriana subsp. schaffneriana, Oxypolis fendleri, and Eryngium lemmonii.

• Conclusions: Development of these novel microsatellite loci will facilitate a deeper understanding of genetic diversity, mode of reproduction, and population structure not only in L. schaffneriana subsp. recurva, but also in apiaceous relatives.
Adaptive Control of Bilateral Teleoperation with Time Delay
Authors: Shahdi Ali , Sirouspour Shahin
Published: April 2012

This paper presents model-based predictive controllers that achieve a high level of transparency while maintaining stability in bilateral teleoperation under known constant or variable time delay. This goal is accomplished by utilizing available information on system model and time delay within an adaptive predictive control framework. The performance objectives are delay-free position tracking between the master and slave and the establishment of virtual mass-damper tool impedance between the user and environment. The controllers adapt to parameter changes in the user, environment as well as the master and slave dynamics. Delay reduction is accomplished based on a state observer and estimates of the system parameters. Using the delay-reduced dynamics, an adaptive output regulation problem is formulated and solved to obtain the control laws. A Lyapunov analysis of the performance and stability of the resulting system is presented. The proposed controllers are evaluated experimentally under constant and variable delay conditions.
A Citizen-Oriented Approach for Evaluating the Performance of e-Government in Sri Lanka
Authors: Karunasena Kanishka , Deng Hepu
Published: April 2012

This paper presents an empirical study of the performance of e-government in Sri Lanka from the perspective of citizens within a public value based conceptual framework. The delivery of quality public services, the effectiveness of public organizations, and the achievement of socially desirable outcomes through e-government are considered using the data from several national surveys. The study reveals that e-government in Sri Lanka has not been able to create satisfactory levels of public value due to the weaknesses in both the supply and demand sides of e-government including poor web presence of government, lack of e-services, poor information infrastructure, low information technology readiness of citizens, and low up-take of e-government initiatives. It suggests that the government can improve the public value of e-government by accelerating the development of e-services projects, developing the information and communication technology infrastructure, and taking necessary steps to enhance citizens’ information technology readiness.
Congestion Resiliency for Data-Partitioned H.264/AVC Video Streaming Over IEEE 802.11e Wireless Networks
Authors: Ali Ismail , Moiron Sandro , Fleury Martin , Ghanbari Mohammed
Published: April 2012

This paper examines the impact of data partitioning form on wireless network access control and proposes a selective dropping scheme based on dropping the partition carrying intra-coded macroblocks. Data partitioning is an error resiliency technique that allows unequal error protection for transmission over ‘lossy’ channels. Including a per-picture, cyclic intra-refresh macroblock line guards against temporal error propagation. The authors show that when congestion occurs, it is possible to gain up to 2 dB in video quality over assigning a stream to a single IEEE 802.11e access category. The scheme is consistently advantageous in indoor and outdoor wireless scenarios over other ways of assigning the partitioned data packets to different access categories. This counter-intuitive scheme for access control purposes reverses the priority usually given to partition-B data packets over that of partition-C.
Treatment of Recurrent Metastatic Head and Neck Cancer: Focus on Cetuximab
Authors: Patel Akshar N. , Mehnert Janice M. , Kim Sung
Published: April 2012

EGFR belongs to the ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases and is associated with worse prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody to the extracellular domain of EGFR and inhibits its downstream actions via multiple mechanisms. Besides its proven efficacy in locally advanced and incurable HNSCC, cetuximab has the distinct advantage of having a relatively tolerable side effect profile and not potentiating radiation toxicity. Though therapies for advanced HNSCC are evolving, locoregional recurrence and/or distant metastases occur in a large percentage of patients. Though some patients can be salvaged with surgery or radiation therapy, the majority are incurable, and are treated palliatively with systemic therapy. In the setting of first line therapy for recurrent/metastatic HNSCC, the EXTREME trial provided level 1 evidence that cetuximab improves overall survival when combined with cisplatinum and 5 FU. Following progression on first line chemotherapy, several phase II trials suggest that cetuximab monotherapy is a reasonable choice in this setting. Future studies should concentrate on clinical and molecular markers that may allow more personalized approaches to treating HNSCC, and combining EGFR inhibitors with other agents in a synergistic approach.
On the gas-ice depth difference (Δdepth) along the EPICA Dome C ice core
Authors: Parrenin F. , Barker S. , Blunier T. , Chappellaz J. , Jouzel J. , Landais A. , Masson-Delmotte V. , Schwander J. , Veres D.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. We compare a variety of methods for estimating the gas/ice depth offset (Δdepth) at EPICA Dome C (EDC, East Antarctica). (1) Purely based on modelling efforts, Δdepth can be estimated combining a firn densification with an ice flow model. Observations allow direct and indirect estimate of Δdepth. (2) The diffusive column height can be estimated from δ15N and converted to Δdepth using an ice flow model and assumptions about past average firn density and thickness of the convective zone. (3) Ice and gas synchronisation of the EDC ice core to the GRIP, EDML and TALDICE ice cores shifts the ice/gas offset problem into higher accumulation ice cores where it can be more accurately evaluated. (4) Finally, the bipolar seesaw hypothesis allows us to synchronise the ice isotopic record with the gas CH4 record, the later being taken as a proxy of Greenland temperature. The bipolar seesaw antiphase relationship is generally supported by the ice-gas cross synchronisation between EDC and the GRIP, EDML and TALDICE ice cores, which provide support for method 4. Applying the bipolar seesaw hypothesis to the deeper section of the EDC core confirms that the ice flow is complex and can help improving our reconstruction of the thinning function and thus of the EDC age scale. We confirm that method 1 overestimates the glacial Δdepth at EDC and we suggested that it is due to an overestimation of the glacial Close Off Depth by the firn densification model. In contrast we find that the glaciological models probably underestimate the Δdepth during termination II. Finally, we show that method 2 based on 15N data produces for the last deglaciation a Δdepth estimate which is in good agreement with methods 3 and 4.
Fluorescent particle tracers for surface flow measurements: a proof of concept in a semi-natural hillslope
Authors: Tauro F. , Grimaldi S. , Petroselli A. , Rulli M. C. , Porfiri M.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. In this paper, a proof of concept experiment is conducted to assess the feasibility of tracing overland flow on a semi-natural hillslope plot via a novel fluorescent particle tracer. Runoff on the experimental plot is artificially simulated by using a custom-built rainfall system. Experiments are performed by using beads of diameters ranging from 75 to 1180 μm that are sensed through an experimental apparatus comprising a light source and a video acquisition unit. Particles' transit is detected through an unsupervised methodology based on image analysis techniques and compared to results from supervised visual inspection. Average flow velocity estimations are obtained from travel time measurements of the particles as they are dragged by the overland flow on the hillslope. Velocities are compared to flow measurements obtained using rhodamine dye. Experimental findings demonstrate the potential of the methodology for understanding overland flow dynamics in complex natural settings. In addition, considerations for optimizing the particle size are presented based on the visibility of the beads and their accuracy in flow tracing.
Achieving fast reconnection in resistive MHD models via turbulent means
Authors: Lapenta G. , Lazarian A.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. Astrophysical fluids are generally turbulent and this preexisting turbulence must be taken into account for models of magnetic reconnection in astrophysical, solar or heliospheric environments. In addition, reconnection itself induces turbulence which provides an important feedback on the reconnection process. In this paper we discuss both the theoretical model and numerical evidence that magnetic reconnection becomes fast in the approximation of resistive MHD. We consider the relation between the Lazarian and Vishniac turbulent reconnection theory and Lapenta's numerical experiments testifying of the spontaneous onset of turbulent reconnection in systems which are initially laminar.
Use of Terbinafine in the Treatment Protocol of Intestinal Cryptococcus neoformans in a Dog
Authors: Olsen Gavin L. , Deitz Krysta L. , Flaherty Heather A. , Lockhart Shawn R. , Hurst Steven F. , Haynes Joseph S.
Published: April 2012

A 2.5 yr old sexually intact male vizsla was admitted to the Iowa State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital for persistent diarrhea, weight loss, and panhypoproteinemia. Examination revealed an emaciated condition and melena. Two masses were palpated in the cranial abdomen. Hematology and serum biochemistry exhibited a regenerative anemia and confirmed the presence of panhypoproteinemia, suggestive of a protein-losing eneteropathy. Distinct areas of thickened intestinal wall and enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes were found on abdominal ultrasound. Cytology from those nodes showed the presence of suspected Cryptococcus spp., and infection was confirmed utilizing a cryptococcal antigen titer. Medical therapy with lipid-complexed amphotericin B and fluconazole was unsuccessful. Two surgical procedures were performed to remove the affected areas of intestine and lymph nodes, but the disease persisted as evidenced by a persistently elevated cryptococcal antigen titer. Terbinafine was prescribed, which resulted in complete resolution of clinical signs and a steadily decreasing cryptococcal antigen titer. Very few cases of intestinal cryptococcosis have been reported. In this case, infection resulted in a protein-losing enteropathy. In addition, this article describes the use of terbinafine in the treatment of intestinal cryptococcal infection in the dog, which has not been previously reported.
AKT/mTOR as Novel Targets of Polyphenol Piceatannol Possibly Contributing to Inhibition of Proliferation of Cultured Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Hsieh Tze-Chen , Lin Chia-Yi , Lin Hung-Yun , Wu Joseph M.
Published: April 2012

The polyphenol piceatannol has shown inhibition against tyrosine and serine/threonine kinases. Whether piceatannol also exerts activity on the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a kinase involved in growth control of eukaryotic cells, is not known. In this study, we tested the effects of piceatannol on proliferation of androgen-dependent (AD) LNCaP and androgen-independent (AI) DU145 and PC-3 prostate cancer (CaP) cells. Suppression of AD and AI CaP cell growth by piceatannol was accompanied by cell cycle blockade in G1/S and S phases for LNCaP and PC-3 and induction of apoptosis in DU145 cells. Induction of apoptosis by piceatannol in DU145 cells was evident by reduced expression of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), cleavage of caspase 3 and apoptosis inducing factor AIF, and an increase in cytochrome c. The apoptotic changes occurred in concordance with DNA damage, supported by increased phosphorylated histone H2AX. Immunoblot analyses showed that exposure of different-stage CaP cells to piceatannol also resulted in cell-type-specific downregulation of mTOR and its upstream and downstream effector proteins, AKT and eIF-4E-BP1. We propose that the observed AKT and mTOR changes are new targets of piceatannol possibly contributing to its inhibitory activities on proliferation of CaP cells.
Plasma-Based Surface Modification of Polydimethylsiloxane for PDMS-PDMS Molding
Authors: Lopera S. , Mansano R. D.
Published: April 2012

We present and compare two processes for plasma-based surface modification of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to achieve the antisticking behavior needed for PDMS-PDMS molding. The studied processes were oxygen plasma activation for vapor phase silanization and plasma polymerization with tetrafluoromethane/hydrogen mixtures under different processing conditions. We analyzed topography changes of the treated surfaces by atomic force microscopy and contact angle measurements. Plasma treatment were conducted in a parallel plate reactive ion etching reactor at a pressure of 300 mTorr, 30 Watts of RF power and a total flow rate of 30 sccm of a gas mixture. We found for both processes that short, low power, treatments are better to create long-term modifications of the chemistry of the polymer surface while longer processes or thicker films tend to degrade faster with the use leaving rough surfaces with higher adherence to the molded material.
Literacy, Utopia and Memory: Is There a Public Teaching in Deuteronomy?
Authors: Berge Kåre
Published: April 2012

Let me start with the obvious: The society to which the Pentateuchal texts refer consisted of a small group of “intellectual” elites that mastered the art of writing and reading, and a vast major- ity of illiterate people. Some scholars estimate literacy to cover no more than five percent of the population. This may have changed in Hellenistic times, but it applies to the whole period of the evolu- tion of Deuteronomy, which stretches from late pre-exilic times through the exilic and possibly into the early Persian time.
Le rôle des communautés de pratique dans le développement de l’ambidextrie contextuelle : le cas GDF SUEZ
Authors: Dupouët Olivier , Barlatier Pierre-Jean
Published: April 2012

Cette contribution propose de voir les communautés de pratique pilotées comme un support à l’ambidextrie contextuelle. En présentant la capacité de ces structures à supporter des activités d’exploration et d’exploitation, nous montrons qu’elles satisfont aux hypothèses de l’ambidextrie contextuelle. Nous développons cette proposition à travers l’étude du réseau de communautés du groupe GDF SUEZ. Cette étude permet d’affiner notre compréhension des principaux aspects de l’ambidextrie contextuelle : un contexte favorisant tant la performance que le partage de connaissances, la gestion des tensions entre exploration et exploitation au niveau individuel et la capacité à combiner alignement et flexibilité sur l’ensemble d’une organisation.
Littérature et opportunisme sous l’Occupation. L’exemple de l’écrivain et éditeur français Jean de La Hire (1878-1956)
Authors: Puren Marie
Published: April 2012

Jean de La Hire, auteur français célèbre pendant la première moitié du xxe siècle pour ses romans populaires, est devenu éditeur en prenant, de manière surprenante, la tête des Éditions Ferenczi, qu’il a aidé à aryaniser. Nous examinons ici les raisons qui l’ont poussé à renier son engagement auprès des républicains socialistes pour devenir le chantre du nazisme. Nous remarquerons que cet engagement brutal aux côtés de la Collaboration a plus été le fait d’un froid opportunisme que d’une conviction sincère — ce qui eut des conséquences sur sa gestion de la maison d’édition. S’il publie bien certains ouvrages de propagande, et s’il en rédige lui-même certains, il n’en reste pas moins que sa gestion de Ferenczi reste minimale, et qu’il ne touche en fait qu’à la marge de son catalogue. La Hire incarne ainsi un visage différent de l’engagement, moins sincère, bien moins humaniste, et bien plus confortable.
S’approprier une pratique inclusive : regard sur le sentiment de compétence de trois équipes-écoles au coeur d’un processus de changement
Authors: Rousseau Nadia , Thibodeau Stéphane
Published: April 2012

Ce texte pose un regard sur le questionnement d’enseignants et d’orthopédagogues engagés dans une démarche de recherche-action visant l’émergence de pratiques inclusives en contexte d’enseignement primaire. On y retrouve tant les principales craintes associées aux pratiques inclusives que celles associées à la transformation des rôles et à l’apprentissage au réel travail collaboratif entre enseignants et orthopédagogues. Ces craintes semblent intimement liées au sentiment de compétence des participants à la recherche. Enfin, des pistes de formation visant à soutenir les pratiques inclusives sont proposées par les participants. Ces pistes ne sont pas sans rappeler la place centrale qu’occupent la formation continue et la formation initiale en contexte d’inclusion scolaire.
Communautés d’apprentissage professionnelles dans huit écoles inclusives de l’Ontario
Authors: Leclerc Martine , Moreau André C.
Published: April 2012

L’éducation inclusive devrait permettre à l’élève, peu importe ses besoins, de trouver dans la classe ordinaire les conditions qui contribuent à l’évolution de ses apprentissages. À cet égard, la réussite pour tous les élèves demeure un défi pour la plupart des enseignants. Dans cette perspective, cet article décrit le bilan d’une réflexion générale sur le fonctionnement en communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle comme piste d’action favorisant l’inclusion et la réussite des élèves. Dans cet article, le contexte inclusif qui prévaut dans les écoles francophones de l’Ontario est d’abord présenté, suivi des caractéristiques d’une école fonctionnant comme communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle et du mécanisme de régulation qui en constitue le coeur même. Ce texte aboutit à la présentation sommaire des résultats de cette recherche de trois ans dans huit écoles inclusives de l’Ontario où a été implanté ce mode de fonctionnement. Finalement, plusieurs retombées positives du travail en communauté d’apprentissage professionnelle tant sur les pratiques pédagogiques des enseignants que sur la réussite des élèves en lecture sont précisées.
L’intégration scolaire au Québec : regard exploratoire sur les défis de la formation à l’enseignement au primaire et préscolaire
Authors: Bergeron Geneviève , St-Vincent Lise-Anne
Published: April 2012

Au Québec, bon nombre d’élèves avec handicaps ou en difficulté d’adaptation ou d’apprentissage (EHDAA) sont intégrés en classe ordinaire conformément à la Politique de l’adaptation scolaire (MEQ, 1999) et au Plan d’action pour soutenir la réussite des EHDAA (MELS, 2008). Cet article s’intéresse à la formation à l’enseignement destinée à préparer les enseignants à exercer en contexte d’intégration scolaire. Il vise plus spécifiquement à dresser un portrait exploratoire de la formation actuellement proposée au Québec dans les programmes de formation à l’enseignement du primaire et préscolaire. Les contributions attendues chez les enseignants oeuvrant dans un contexte d’intégration scolaire sont d’abord dégagées pour ensuite être mises en parallèle avec les éléments annoncés dans les descriptifs de cours de neuf universités québécoises francophones offrant un programme de formation à l’enseignement primaire et préscolaire. La dernière section met en évidence les défis particuliers de la formation prévue pour soutenir l’intégration scolaire au Québec.
Le critique et la scène
Authors: Pefanis Georges P.
Published: April 2012

La critique de théâtre aujourd’hui pourrait être convertie à un discours polyvalent qui questionne les événements théâtraux en tirant des expériences, des significations et formes mentales des champs cognitifs adjacents. L’élargissement du canon théâtral, sa réadaptation aux nouvelles données culturelles, la reconstitution de la forme théâtrale à l’aide de matériaux hybrides et la décentralisation plurielle de l’acte de représentation, ainsi que l’autonomisation des arts dans les processus scéniques sont quelques uns des facteurs les plus importants qui différencient en grande partie, non seulement les représentations elles-mêmes, mais également la perception qu’en a le spectateur spécialiste.

La critique de théâtre en Grèce contemporaine à certains égards était, jusqu’ à très récemment, peu étudiée aux universités comme aux cercles des intellectuels. Ce fut la raison pour laquelle elle peut se caractériser, soit enfermée dans de vieilles postures acquises par le passé, de manière empirique et inconstante, sinon arbitraire, soit amenée à un relativisme sans issue, en suivant les différentes tendances importées. L’ interpénétration de la déontologie scientifique et de l’actualité au sein de la critique théâtrale peut considérablement améliorer la situation dans le domaine de la perception des représentations et progressivement lever l’opposition stérile qui parfois se manifeste entre la science, la méditation et la création artistique.
Dialectique de l’intérieur et de l’extérieur dans trois événements in situ présentés dans l’édition 2010 du FTA
Authors: Siaud Florent
Published: April 2012

Né d’une volonté d’extraire l’oeuvre d’art de ses habituels lieux de présentation pour les inscrire dans des contextes insolites, le théâtre in situ délaisse les espaces sanctuarisés de la création. Comme l’ont montré trois spectacles présentés dans l’édition 2010 du Festival TransAmérique de Montréal, il permet au spectateur de vivre une expérience artistique au coeur de la ville. Enquête anthropologique sur ce qui fonde nos rites, notre inconscient collectif et nos sentiments d’appartenance, le théâtre in situ n’est pourtant pas exclusivement une manifestation à ciel ouvert : bouleversement de l’espace urbain, il occasionne parallèlement une plongée en soi qui conduit le sujet à s’interroger sur son rapport à sa propre mémoire ou à son activité sensorielle de citadin.
Human Dignity as High Moral Status1
Authors: Toscano Manuel
Published: April 2012

In this paper I argue that the idea of human dignity has a precise and philosophically relevant sense. Following recent works, we can find some important clues in the long history of the term. Traditionally, dignity conveys the idea of a high and honourable position in a hierarchical order, either in society or in nature. At first glance, nothing may seem more contrary to the contemporary conception of human dignity, especially in regard to human rights. However, an account of dignity as high rank provides an illuminating perspective on the role it plays in the egalitarian discourse of human rights. In order to preserve that relational sense regarding human dignity, we can use the notion of moral status, to which some moral philosophers have paid attention in recent years. I explore the possibilities of the idea of moral status to better understand the idea of human dignity and its close relationship with human rights.
Adaptive control of the oxidation ditch reactors in a wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Kandare Gregor , Viúdez‐Moreiras Daniel , Hernández‐del‐Olmo Félix
Published: April 2012

This paper describes the application of adaptive predictive expert (ADEX) control methodology to the oxidation ditch reactor in the wastewater treatment plant of Ceutí (Murcia, Spain) and evaluates the performance of the ADEX control system against that of the previous control system operating the plant. After a basic description of ADEX control methodology, the ditch reactor is described, as well as the control objectives and the control strategy, which focused on energy consumption reduction. The results of the application of the ADEX control system show significant improvement compared with the previous control system in terms of higher stability and precision of controlled variables, reduction of energy consumption of the plant, and better quality of the effluent water. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Type II enteropathy‐associated T‐cell lymphoma: A multicenter analysis from the Asia Lymphoma Study Group
Authors: Tse Eric , Gill Harinder , Loong Florence , Kim Seok Jin , Ng Siok‐Bian , Tang Tiffany , Ko Young‐Hyeh , Chng Wee‐Joo , Lim Soon‐Thye , Kim Won Seog , Kwong Yok‐Lam
Published: April 2012

Enteropathy‐associated T‐cell lymphoma (EATL) is a rare primary gastrointestinal T‐cell lymphoma. A multicenter study from the Asia Lymphoma Study Group identified 38 EATL patients within a 19‐year period. All cases were type II EATL. Men were affected twice as common as women, at a median age of 59 (23–89) years. None had a history of celiac disease. The sites of involvement were small bowel and stomach (5%), small bowel (63%), small and large bowel (16%), and large bowel (18%). Common presenting features were bowel perforation (34%), pain (32%), and obstruction (21%). Lymphomas showed monomorphic neoplastic lymphoid infiltrates that were CD3+ (100%), CD56+ (91%), TIA‐1+ (96%), CD4–CD8+ (63%), CD4+CD8+ (19%), CD4–CD8– (16%), and CD4+CD8– (3%). Epstein Barr virus was demonstrable in three cases. Despite chemotherapy and/or surgical resection, the overall response and complete response rates were poor at 46% and 38%. The median overall survival (OS) was 7 months and progression‐free‐survival (PFS) 1 month. Five patients underwent hematopoietic stem cell transplantation all were alive. Age and the prognostic index for peripheral T‐cell lymphoma were not prognostically significant. Good performance status was associated with better OS (P = 0.03), and response to initial treatment led to better OS and PFS (P < 0.001). Am. J. Hematol. 87:663–668, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Risk factors associated with asthma phenotypes in dental healthcare workers
Authors: Singh Tanusha , Bello Braimoh , Jeebhay Mohamed F.
Published: April 2012

Background

Exposure in the dental environment can increase the risk of respiratory disease in dental healthcare workers (HCWs). This study investigated the prevalence of asthma phenotypes in dental HCWs and associated risk factors.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of 454 dental HCWs in five dental institutions in South Africa was conducted. A self‐administered questionnaire elicited the health and employment history of subjects. Sera was analyzed for atopic status and latex sensitization. Pre‐ and post‐bronchodilator spirometry was performed.

Results

The prevalence of atopic asthma was 6.9%, non‐atopic asthma 5.9% and work‐exacerbated asthma (WEA) 4.0%. Atopy and work‐related ocular‐nasal symptoms were strong predictors of WEA (OR: 3.4; 95% CI: 1.07–10.8; OR: 6.7, 95% CI: 2.4–19.1), respectively. Regular use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was associated with a protective affect (OR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.1–0.7) among non‐atopic asthmatics, while glove use and respiratory protection was protective among atopic asthmatics (OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.17–0.89).

Conclusion

Identification of risk factors associated with specific asthma phenotypes in dental HCWs can be used to focus preventive strategies for asthmatics. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:90–99, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
States with low non‐fatal injury rates have high fatality rates and vice‐versa
Authors: Mendeloff John , Burns Rachel
Published: April 2012

Background

State‐level injury rates or fatality rates are sometimes used in studies of the impact of various safety programs or other state policies. How much does the metric used affect the view of relative occupational risks among U.S. states? This paper uses a measure of severe injuries (fatalities) and of less severe injuries (non‐fatal injuries with days away from work, restricted work, or job transfer–DART) to examine that issue.

Methods

We looked at the correlation between the average DART injury rate (from the BLS Survey of Occupational Injuries and Illnesses) and an adjusted average fatality rate (from the BLS Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries) in the construction sector for states for 2003–2005 and for 2006–2008. The RAND Human Subjects Protection Committee determined that this study was exempt from review.

Results

The correlations between the fatal and non‐fatal injury rates were between −0.30 and −0.70 for all construction and for the subsector of special trade contractors. The negative correlation was much smaller between the rate of fatal falls from heights and the rate of non‐fatal falls from heights. Adjusting for differences in the industry composition of the construction sector across states had minor effects on these results.

Conclusion

Although some have suggested that fatal and non‐fatal injury rates should not necessarily be positively correlated, no one has suggested that the correlation is negative, which is what we find. We know that reported non‐fatal rates are influenced by workers' compensation benefits and other factors. Fatality rates appear to be a more valid measure of risk. Efforts to explain the variations that we find should be undertaken. Am. J. Ind. Med. 56:509–519, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.