bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Legitimate Violence” in the Prose of Counterinsurgency
Authors: Olsson Christian
Published: April 2013

Drawing on a critical engagement with the claims made by (and interpretations of) the 2006 US army and marine corps field manual on “Counterinsurgency,” this article engages some of its underlying concerns with the problematic relation between violence, legitimacy, and political order. Since this manual draws heavily on many commonplaces of contemporary political science, the analysis explores their problematic presuppositions and the ways in which they play out in contemporary warfare. The primary conclusion is that while the encounter of legitimacy and violence is claimed by the doctrine to produce and maintain political order, its framing of this encounter is deeply rooted in a specific political order, that of the modern state, which severely constrains the conditions under which this encounter can take place. These constraints cast serious doubts on many of the doctrine’s assertions, especially as they have shaped recent wars in Afghanistan and, until recently, in Iraq.
Application of densification process in organic waste management
Authors: Zafari Abedin , Kianmehr Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2013

Densification of biomass material that usually has a low density is good way of increasing density, reducing the cost of transportation, and simplifying the storage and distribution of this material. The current study was conducted to investigate the influence of raw material parameters (moisture content and particle size), and densification process parameters (piston speed and die length) on the density and durability of pellets from compost manure. A hydraulic press and a single pelleter were used to produce pellets in controlled conditions. Ground biomass samples were compressed with three levels of moisture content [35%, 40% and 45% (wet basis)], piston speed (2, 6 and 10 mm/s), die length (8, 10 and 12 mm) and particle size (0.3., 0.9 and 1.5 mm) to establish density and durability of pellets. A response surface methodology based on the Box Behnken design was used to study the responses pattern and to understand the influence of parameters. The results revealed that all independent variables have significant ( P < 0.01) effects on studied responses in this research.
Trauma Theory Without Feminism? Evaluating Contemporary Understandings of Traumatized Women
Authors: Tseris Emma Jane
Published: April 2013

In this article, I critically examine contemporary notions of trauma and how they have informed mental health interventions for women. The feminist underpinnings of trauma therapy invite practitioners to understand women’s mental health “symptoms” within the context of such experiences as child abuse and sexual violence that disproportionately affect women. However, this article poses the question: Has trauma theory caused paradigmatic shifts in mental health interventions that have increased practitioners’ capacity to engage with sociopolitical issues, or are preexisting assumptions about the biological basis of women’s mental illness guiding treatment approaches simply by another name? Implications for social workers are discussed.
Great-Aunt Whoever’s Funeral
Authors: Pilkinton Melinda W.
Published: April 2013

The facade of idyllic rural life can be misleading, particularly with respect to persons who are representative of diverse groups, including lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgendered individuals. This article presents a cross section of practice with a rural, lesbian client who harbored resentment toward family members for the majority of her life. Her anecdotal experiences during a trip to a family member’s funeral resurrected painful memories. However, her encounters deviated from previous meetings with her abusers and induced newfound strength and self-esteem. Conjoint sessions with her mother increased understanding and bonds.
Synthesis, spectral and thermal degradation kinetics of novolac resins derived from cardanol
Authors: Natarajan M. , Murugavel S. C.
Published: April 2013

The cardanol formaldehyde resin (CFR) has been synthesized by the condensation of cardanol with formaldehyde (ratio of 1:0.7) in the presence of oxalic acid catalyst. Synthesized CFR was epoxidized using epichlorohydrin (ECH) with 1:10 molar ratio. Cardanol was also directly epoxidized using ECH with the above-mentioned ratio. Synthesized resins have been characterized by Fourier-transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic analyses. Thermal properties have been studied by thermogravimetric analysis. Decomposition kinetics have been studied by various kinetic models of the synthesized compounds. In the present study, Horowitz–Metzger, Broido and Coats–Redfern models have been used to calculate the activation energy ( Ea), pre-exponential factor ( A) and rate constant ( K). Ea calculated from all the three models mentioned above was close to each other.
A combined FEM/BEM model and experimental investigation into the effects of fluid-borne noise sources on the air-borne noise generated by hydraulic pumps and motors
Authors: Opperwall Timothy , Vacca Andrea
Published: April 2013

A common assumption about fluid power systems is that the outlet pressure ripple is a primary source for air-borne noise. Fluid pressure fluctuations are caused by flow ripples generated by positive displacement units that are the prime power movers in these systems. The present research aims to leverage previous efforts in the topic of noise generation in hydrostatic units, formulating a method to predict air-borne noise for a particular reference machine. A numerical model has been developed to gain knowledge on the mechanisms of noise generation in external gear machines. The simulated noise sources are then applied to the structure in order to predict the propagation of noise to the surroundings. Also, experimental activity based on an innovative method of interpretation of noise measurements is also accomplished in order to better characterize the dependency between fluid-borne noise and air-borne noise. Measurements are made of total sound power level as well as sound pressure level at representative points to better understand the acoustic performance of external gear machines at a wide variety of operating conditions.
Conceptions of Narcissism and the DSM-5 Pathological Personality Traits
Authors: Wright Aidan G. C. , Pincus Aaron L. , Thomas Katherine M. , Hopwood Christopher J. , Markon Kristian E. , Krueger Robert F.
Published: April 2013

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–Fifth Edition ( DSM-5) features two conceptions of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), one based on the retained DSM-IV’s categorical diagnosis and the other based on a model that blends impairments in personality functioning with a specific trait profile intended to recapture DSM-IV NPD. Nevertheless, the broader literature contains a richer array of potential conceptualizations of narcissism, including distinguishable perspectives from psychiatric nosology, clinical observation and theory, and social/personality psychology. This raises questions about the most advantageous pattern of traits to use to reflect various conceptions of narcissistic pathology via the Personality Inventory for the DSM-5 (PID-5). In this study, we examine the associations of the Personality Disorder Questionnaire–Narcissistic Personality Disorder scale, Narcissistic Personality Inventory–16, and the Pathological Narcissism Inventory and the PID-5 dimensions and facets in a large sample ( N = 1,653) of undergraduate student participants. Results point to strong associations with PID-5 Antagonism scales across narcissism measures, consistent with the DSM-5’s proposed representation of NPD. However, additional notable associations emerged with PID-5 Negative Affectivity and Psychoticism scales when considering more clinically relevant narcissism measures.
Dry sliding wear of laser hardened low alloy steel at room and elevated temperatures
Authors: Babu P Dinesh , Buvanashekaran G , Balasubramanian KR
Published: April 2013

This paper discusses about the wear behaviour of as-received and laser hardened EN25 low alloy steel performed in dry sliding condition using a pin-on-disc method. A 2 kW continuous wave neodymium yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser source is used for transformation hardening to improve the hardness and wear resistance. The laser transformation hardened steel samples are characterized by optical microscope, x-ray diffractometer and microhardness tester. The sliding wear study is conducted for different loads (10 N, 25 N, 40 N), sliding distances (1000 m, 2000 m, 3000 m) at various elevated temperatures (200℃, 400℃ and 600℃) with constant sliding speed of 0.15 m/s. The study at room temperature is also carried out for comparison. The friction and wear characteristics in sliding contact are evaluated and the worn surfaces are analysed through a scanning electron microscope. The experimental work indicates that wear resistance of laser hardened steel is five times higher than the as-received steel. The results also indicate that the wear resistance increases at 400℃ due to the oxide layer formation and decreases at 600℃ due to fracture of the oxide layer.
The business and politics of search engines: A comparative study of Baidu and Google’s search results of Internet events in China
Authors: Jiang Min
Published: April 2013

Despite growing interest in search engines in China, relatively few empirical studies have examined their sociopolitical implications. This study fills several research gaps by comparing query results ( N = 6320) from China’s two leading search engines, Baidu and Google, focusing on accessibility, overlap, ranking, and bias patterns. Analysis of query results of 316 popular Chinese Internet events reveals the following: (1) after Google moved its servers from Mainland China to Hong Kong, its results are equally if not more likely to be inaccessible than Baidu’s, and Baidu’s filtering is much subtler than the Great Firewall’s wholesale blocking of Google’s results; (2) there is low overlap (6.8%) and little ranking similarity between Baidu’s and Google’s results, implying different search engines, different results and different social realities; and (3) Baidu rarely links to its competitors Hudong Baike or Chinese Wikipedia, while their presence in Google’s results is much more prominent, raising search bias concerns. These results suggest search engines can be architecturally altered to serve political regimes, arbitrary in rendering social realities and biased toward self-interest.
A thin plate element based on the combined arbitrary Lagrange–Euler and absolute nodal coordinate formulations
Authors: Hyldahl Per , Mikkola Aki , Balling Ole
Published: April 2013

The goal of this study is to expand the combination of the arbitrary Lagrange–Euler (ALE) and absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) to plate elements. In the ALE–ANCF method, nodal coordinates are not associated with any specific material points. This means that nodal positions in a finite element mesh can be varied during simulations forward in time. This article contains a description of the kinematics and equation of motion of a thin ALE–ANCF plate element. The element kinematics is described using C1 continuous shape functions and elastic forces are evaluated using a combined membrane and curvature approach. The presented plate element formulation is validated by comparison with a conventional ANCF plate element.
Framing interethnic conflict in Malaysia: A comparative analysis of newspapers coverage on the keris polemics
Authors: Fong Yang L. , Ishak Md Sidin Ahmad
Published: April 2013

The keris is a Malay or Indonesia dagger. In 2005, the then United Malays National Organization (UMNO) Youth Chief and Malaysia Education Minister, Hishammuddin Hussein, wielded the keris at the UMNO Youth general assembly, which he claimed to be a means to motivate the Malays. Following that, the UMNO Youth general assembly in 2006 and 2007 was noted for some racist statements made by several delegates in addition to the keris-wielding action repeated by Hishammuddin. The non-Malays perceived the action of wielding the keris as a gesture meant to defend ketuanan Melayu (Malay supremacy) and to threaten those who opposed Malay special rights. After the political tsunami in 2008, the Malaysian Chinese Association and Malaysian People’s Movement Party (Gerakan) leaders blamed UMNO for their electoral debacle. Hishammuddin also admitted that his raising of the keris was among the causes of the Barisan Nasional’s poor performance in the general election. He apologized to the non-Malays because of the fear to a symbol which was not his intention and to the Malays for not being able to uphold their symbol of heritage. This study aimed to compare the coverage of the keris polemics by mainstream Malay, English and Chinese as well as alternative newspapers. By using framing as the theoretical framework and content analysis as the research methods, it was found that the newspapers framed the issue differently, reflecting the political economic and ideological boundaries within which the journalists work.
Governing urban security in Finland: Towards the ‘European model’
Authors: Virta Sirpa
Published: April 2013

The article describes and evaluates the development of urban security management in Finland since 2002. The evaluation is based on governmental safety and security strategies, 228 local safety plans from 2002 and the security strategies of the 10 biggest cities in 2012, along with interviews with risk managers or security managers, police chiefs and other experts. New security professions and professionals, such as security managers, have emerged in cities; the trend is towards regional safety and security management; crime prevention has been replaced by a broader concept of the co-production of security by state and municipal authorities (networks, strategic partnerships); contingency planning, civil protection and preparedness have been reconciled with local safety planning processes (in some cities). In addition, the military is looking for a new role in society. It is also argued that European Union membership and EU strategies are now such important drivers of development that Finland is moving from the so-called ‘Scandinavian model’ towards the ‘European model’ of security governance.
‘We’ll go grafting, yeah?’: Crime as a response to urban neglect
Authors: Patel Tina G
Published: April 2013

Urban redevelopment attempts to rebrand spaces. The intention is to make them appear attractive for inward financial investment; to make improvements for residents; and, to reduce crime. It is considered by some to be a problematic process that does not always achieve the desired outcomes. This is especially so during the gentrification-transition stage. This qualitative study looked at crime in a sample site that was in a gentrification-transition stage of urban redevelopment. Using data sourced from those directly involved in criminal activity, this study argues that crime reduction in gentrification-transition environments is especially difficult to achieve. This is because disorganization in the built environment and economic inequality intensifies in areas experiencing gentrification-transition. Coupled with consumer pressures of the modern era, the result is a space where particular types of crime occur, often in significantly higher volumes than was the case prior to redevelopment.
Perioperative release of pro-regenerative biochemical signals from human renal allografts subjected to ischemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Błogowski Wojciech , Dołęgowska Barbara , Budkowska Marta , Sałata Daria , Domański Leszek , Starzyńska Teresa
Published: April 2013

Complement-derived molecules modulate the intensity of renal ischemia–reperfusion injury and may lead to the generation of biochemical signals [such as stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) or sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)], which stimulate tissue/organ regeneration after injury. We tested the association between perioperative C5b-9/membrane attack complex (MAC) levels and intensified erythrocyte lysis, and asked whether significant changes in the levels of pro-regenerative substances occur during the early phase of renal allograft reperfusion. Seventy-five recipients were enrolled and divided into the early, slow, and delayed graft function (DGF) groups. Perioperative blood samples were collected from the renal vein during consecutive minutes of reperfusion. Extracellular hemoglobin (eHb), albumin (plasma S1P transporter), 8-iPF2α-III isoprostane, SDF-1 and S1P concentrations were measured. Throughout the reperfusion period, erythrocyte lysis intensified and was most pronounced in the DGF group. However, perioperative eHb levels did not correlate significantly with C5b-9/MAC values, but rather with the intensity of oxidative stress. No significant changes were observed in S1P, its plasma transporter (albumin) or SDF-1 levels, which were relatively low in all groups throughout the reperfusion period. Our study therefore demonstrates that no known biochemical signal for bone marrow-derived stem cell mobilization is released from human renal allografts to the periphery during the early phase of reperfusion.
It's Good to Be the King
Authors: Akinola Modupe , Mendes Wendy Berry
Published: April 2013

Epidemiological and animal studies often find that higher social status is associated with better physical health outcomes, but these findings are by design correlational and lack mediational explanations. In two studies, we examine neurobiological reactivity to test the hypothesis that higher social status leads to salutary short-term psychological, physiological, and behavioral responses. In Study 1, we measured police officers’ subjective social status and had them engage in a stressful task during which we measured cardiovascular and neuroendocrine reactivity. In Study 2, we manipulated social status and examined physiological reactivity and performance outcomes to explore links among status, performance, and physiological reactivity. Results indicated that higher social status (whether measured or manipulated) was associated with approach-oriented physiology (Studies 1 and 2) and better performance (Study 2) relative to lower status. These findings point to acute reactivity as one possible causal mechanism to better physical health among those higher in social status.
Prevention of infection caused by immunosuppressive drugs in gastroenterology
Authors: Orlicka Katarzyna , Barnes Eleanor , Culver Emma L.
Published: April 2013

Immunosuppressive therapy is frequently used to treat gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune hepatitis, IgG4-related disease (autoimmune pancreatitis and sclerosing cholangitis) and in the post-transplantation setting. These drugs interfere with the immune system. The main safety concern with their use is the risk of infections. Certain infections can be prevented or their impact minimized. Physicians must adopt preventative strategies and should have a high degree of suspicion to recognize infections early and treat appropriately. This article reviews the risk factors for infections, the mechanism of action of immunosuppressive therapy and proposes preventive strategies.
Meeting the Challenge
Authors: Evans Rupert M. , Johnson James A. , Garman Andy N. , Kletke Philip
Published: April 2013

Minority enrichment programs play a vitally important role in current efforts to increase the number of health care providers from underrepresented racial and ethnic populations and other disadvantaged groups. However, the existence of minority enrichment programs is challenged by recent changes in the political and economic environment, including the sharp reduction of federal funding support in 2006. This article presents case studies of two longitudinal minority enrichment programs located in Chicago, Illinois: the Urban Health Program (UHP) of the University of Illinois at Chicago, and the Chicago Area Health and Medical Career Program (CAHMCP) at Illinois Institute of Technology. Prior to the cuts in federal funding, in 2005, we conducted in-person interviews with administrative staff of the two programs. The qualitative data were supplemented with follow-up interviews conducted in 2008 with directors of the programs. During the interviews, we discussed how the programs responded to the budget cuts and how the programs viewed their future prospects. The results of the study indicated that adequate funding is crucial for the continued success of these minority enrichment programs in ensuring a viable health professions pipeline.
Ldb1-nucleated transcription complexes function as primary mediators of global erythroid gene activation
Authors: Li LiQi , Freudenberg Johannes , Cui Kairong , Dale Ryan , Song Sang-Hyun , Dean Ann , Zhao Keji , Jothi Raja , Love Paul E.
Published: April 2013

Key Points

Ldb1 complexes bind to and positively regulate the expression of a large number of erythroid genes including most known Gata1-regulated genes. Ldb1 complexes and Klf1 frequently bind together and coregulate erythroid gene expression.
Multicenter study of banked third-party virus-specific T cells to treat severe viral infections after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Leen Ann M. , Bollard Catherine M. , Mendizabal Adam M. , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Szabolcs Paul , Antin Joseph H. , Kapoor Neena , Pai Sung-Yun , Rowley Scott D. , Kebriaei Partow , Dey Bimalangshu R. , Grilley Bambi J. , Gee Adrian P. , Brenner Malcolm K. , Rooney Cliona M. , Heslop Helen E.
Published: April 2013

Key Points

Banked third-party virus-specific T cells can safely and rapidly treat severe or intractable viral infections after HSCT.
Compression-based distance (CBD): a simple, rapid, and accurate method for microbiota composition comparison
Authors: Yang Fang , Chia Nicholas , White Bryan A , Schook Lawrence B
Published: April 2013

Background

Perturbations in intestinal microbiota composition have been associated with a variety of gastrointestinal tract-related diseases. The alleviation of symptoms has been achieved using treatments that alter the gastrointestinal tract microbiota toward that of healthy individuals. Identifying differences in microbiota composition through the use of 16S rRNA gene hypervariable tag sequencing has profound health implications. Current computational methods for comparing microbial communities are usually based on multiple alignments and phylogenetic inference, making them time consuming and requiring exceptional expertise and computational resources. As sequencing data rapidly grows in size, simpler analysis methods are needed to meet the growing computational burdens of microbiota comparisons. Thus, we have developed a simple, rapid, and accurate method, independent of multiple alignments and phylogenetic inference, to support microbiota comparisons.

Results

We create a metric, called compression-based distance (CBD) for quantifying the degree of similarity between microbial communities. CBD uses the repetitive nature of hypervariable tag datasets and well-established compression algorithms to approximate the total information shared between two datasets. Three published microbiota datasets were used as test cases for CBD as an applicable tool. Our study revealed that CBD recaptured 100% of the statistically significant conclusions reported in the previous studies, while achieving a decrease in computational time required when compared to similar tools without expert user intervention.

Conclusion

CBD provides a simple, rapid, and accurate method for assessing distances between gastrointestinal tract microbiota 16S hypervariable tag datasets.
C-reactive protein may be a prognostic factor in hepatocellular carcinoma with malignant portal vein invasion
Authors: Kim Jong Man , Kwon Choon Hyuck David , Joh Jae-Won , Ko Justin Sangwook , Park Jae Berm , Lee Joon Hyeok , Kim Sung Joo , Paik Seung Woon , Park Cheol-Keun
Published: April 2013

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high predilection for portal vein invasion, and the prognosis of HCC with malignant portal vein invasion is extremely poor. The objective of this study was to investigate the outcomes and the prognostic factor of recurrence in HCC patients with malignant portal vein invasion.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinicopathologic data and outcomes of 83 HCC patients with malignant portal vein invasion and 1,056 patients without portal vein invasion who underwent liver resection.

Results

Increased serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, increased maximum tumor size, and intrahepatic metastasis were predisposing factors for malignant portal vein invasion by multivariate analysis. The median disease-free survival and overall survival of HCC patients with malignant portal vein invasion was 4.5 months and 25 months, respectively. The 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year disease-free survival rates were 30.6%, 26.1%, and 21.2%, respectively, and the overall survival rates for HCC patients with malignant portal vein invasion were 68.6%, 54.2%, and 41.6%, respectively. The initial detection site was the lung in HCC patients with portal vein invasion and the liver in HCC patients without portal vein invasion. C-reactive protein (CRP) was a significant independent predictor of tumor recurrence in HCC with malignant portal vein invasion after surgery.

Conclusions

Increased ALP levels, increased maximum tumor size, and intrahepatic metastasis were independent predictors of malignant portal vein invasion in HCC. CRP level was closely associated with the predisposing factor of tumor recurrence in HCC patients with malignant portal vein invasion after a surgical resection, and lung metastasis was common.
Fullerene modification CdSe/TiO2 and modification of photocatalytic activity under visible light
Authors: Meng Ze-Da , Zhu Lei , Ye Shu , Sun Qian , Ullah Kefayat , Cho Kwang-Youn , Oh Won-Chun
Published: April 2013

CdSe, CdSe-TiO2, and CdSe-C60/TiO2 composites were prepared using sol–gel method, and their photocatalytic activity was evaluated by measuring the degradation of rhodamine B solutions under visible light. The surface area, surface structure, crystal phase, and elemental identification of these composites were characterized by nitrogen adsorption isotherms, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and UV-visible (vis) absorption spectrophotometry. XRD showed that the CdSe-C60/TiO2 composite contained a typical single and clear anatase phase. SEM of the CdSe-C60/TiO2 composites revealed a homogenous composition in the particles. EDX revealed the presence of C and Ti with strong Cd and Se peaks in the CdSe-C60/TiO2 composite. The degradation of dye was determined by UV–vis spectrophotometry. An increase in photocatalytic activity was observed and attributed to an increase in the photoabsorption effect by fullerene and the cooperative effect of the CdSe. The repeatability of photocatalytic activity was also tested in order to investigate the stability of C60 and CdS-C60/TiO2 composites.
Admission control in wireless ad hoc networks: a survey
Authors: Khoukhi Lyes , Badis Hakim , Merghem-Boulahia Leila , Esseghir Moez
Published: April 2013

Wireless mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) have emerged as a key technology for next-generation wireless networking. Because of their advantages over other wireless networks, MANETs are undergoing rapid progress and inspiring numerous applications. However, many technical issues are still facing the deployment of this technology, and one of the most challenging aspects is the quality of service (QoS) provisioning for multimedia real-time applications. MANETs are expected to offer a diverse range of services to support real-time traffic and conventional data in an integrated fashion. Because of the diversified QoS requirements of these services, QoS models are needed for an efficient usage of network resources. One of the most crucial mechanisms for providing QoS support is admission control (AC). AC has the task of estimating the state of network's resources and thereby to decide which application data flows can be admitted without promising more resources than are available and thus violating previously made guarantees. In order to provide a better understanding of the AC research challenges in MANETs, this paper presents a detailed investigation of current state-of-the-art AC models in ad hoc networks. A brief outline of the admission function, feedback to route failures, as well as the advantages and drawbacks of each discussed model are given.
Identification and structural elucidation of ozonation transformation products of estrone
Authors: Segura Pedro Alejandro , Kaplan Pearl , Yargeau Viviane
Published: April 2013

Background

Quantitative methods for the analysis of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) are abundant in the scientific literature. However, there are few reports on systematic methods of identification and structural identification of transformation products. For this reason, a new method based on high-resolution mass spectrometry and differential analysis was developed in order to facilitate and accelerate the process of identification and structural elucidation of transformation products CECs. This method was applied to the study of ozonation transformation products (OTPs) of the natural hormone estrone (E1).

Results

A control compare trend experiment consisting in the comparison of a control sample to several samples having been exposed to decreasing concentrations of O3(aq) indicated that 593 peaks could be associated with OTPs. After applying various filters to remove background noise, sample contaminants and signal spikes, this data set was reduced to 16 candidate peaks. By inspection of the shape of these peaks, only two compounds OTP-276 (m/z 275.12930) and OTP-318 (m/z 317.14008) were considered as good candidates for further study. Multi-stage tandem mass spectrometry (MSn) experiments of SPE extracts of the ozonated samples of E1 and of a deuterium-labeled analogue (E1-d4) showed that OTP-276 and OTP-318 had carboxylic acid and hydroxyl functional groups, as previously reported for OTPs of other hormones. Structures for these two compounds were proposed based on their MSn spectra.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the method proposed is a systematic and rapid approach to study transformation products of CECs.
Pharmaceutical quality of seven generic Levodopa/Benserazide products compared with original Madopar® / Prolopa®
Authors: Gasser Urs E , Fischer Anton , Timmermans Jan P , Arnet Isabelle
Published: April 2013

Background

By definition, a generic product is considered interchangeable with the innovator brand product. Controversy exists about interchangeability, and attention is predominantly directed to contaminants. In particular for chronic, degenerative conditions such as in Parkinson’s disease (PD) generic substitution remains debated among physicians, patients and pharmacists. The objective of this study was to compare the pharmaceutical quality of seven generic levodopa/benserazide hydrochloride combination products marketed in Germany with the original product (Madopar® / Prolopa® 125, Roche, Switzerland) in order to evaluate the potential impact of Madopar® generics versus branded products for PD patients and clinicians.

Methods

Madopar® / Prolopa® 125 tablets and capsules were used as reference material. The generic products tested (all 100 mg/25 mg formulations) included four tablet and three capsule formulations. Colour, appearance of powder (capsules), disintegration and dissolution, mass of tablets and fill mass of capsules, content, identity and amounts of impurities were assessed along with standard physical and chemical laboratory tests developed and routinely practiced at Roche facilities. Results were compared to the original “shelf-life” specifications in use by Roche.

Results

Each of the seven generic products had one or two parameters outside the specifications. Deviations for the active ingredients ranged from +8.4% (benserazide) to −7.6% (levodopa) in two tablet formulations. Degradation products were measured in marked excess (+26.5%) in one capsule formulation. Disintegration time and dissolution for levodopa and benserazide hydrochloride at 30 min were within specifications for all seven generic samples analysed, however with some outliers.

Conclusions

Deviations for the active ingredients may go unnoticed by a new user of the generic product, but may entail clinical consequences when switching from original to generic during a long-term therapy. Degradation products may pose a safety concern. Our results should prompt caution when prescribing a generic of Madopar®/Prolopa®, and also invite to further investigations in view of a more comprehensive approach, both pharmaceutical and clinical.
Identification of Criticality in Neuronal Avalanches: I. A Theoretical Investigation of the Non-driven Case
Authors: Taylor Timothy J , Hartley Caroline , Simon Péter L , Kiss Istvan Z , Berthouze Luc
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we study a simple model of a purely excitatory neural network that, by construction, operates at a critical point. This model allows us to consider various markers of criticality and illustrate how they should perform in a finite-size system. By calculating the exact distribution of avalanche sizes, we are able to show that, over a limited range of avalanche sizes which we precisely identify, the distribution has scale free properties but is not a power law. This suggests that it would be inappropriate to dismiss a system as not being critical purely based on an inability to rigorously fit a power law distribution as has been recently advocated. In assessing whether a system, especially a finite-size one, is critical it is thus important to consider other possible markers. We illustrate one of these by showing the divergence of susceptibility as the critical point of the system is approached. Finally, we provide evidence that power laws may underlie other observables of the system that may be more amenable to robust experimental assessment.
Impact of an early education multimedia intervention in managing nutrition-related chemotherapy side effects: a pilot study
Authors: Thompson Julie , Silliman Kathryn , Clifford Dawn E
Published: April 2013

Background

The purpose of the educational intervention was to measure changes in knowledge, perceived benefit of nutrition, and perceived self efficacy in handling side effects of chemotherapy before and after viewing a 15 minute DVD among patients with cancer.

Methods

A convenience sample of 14 (4 male, 10 female, 61 ± 9 years) patients with cancer, early to chemotherapy, participated in the study. Participants completed a survey with demographic, knowledge items, and perceived health belief and self efficacy statements; viewed the DVD; and were then sent home with a one page handout. Two weeks after the nutrition education intervention, a second survey was completed including an item about tips used. Change was measured using paired t-test and wilcoxon signed rank tests.

Findings

The mean score on the four knowledge items significantly increased (p < 0.05). No significant differences were noted in statements intended to evaluate changes in perceived health beliefs. However, perceived knowledge and skills related to managing side effects increased (p < 0.05). All participants responded that the DVD was informative and most (n = 11, 79%) responded that it was useful. The majority reported (n = 10, 71%) a tip they used from the DVD.

Conclusions

This short multimedia nutrition education intervention was found primarily to increase knowledge and could form a useful component of counseling services for patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Each Individual Isoform of the Dopamine D2 Receptor Protects from Lactotroph Hyperplasia
Authors: Radl Daniela , De Mei Claudia , Chen Eric , Lee Hyuna , Borrelli Emiliana
Published: April 2013

Dopamine acting through D2 receptors (D2Rs) controls lactotroph proliferation and prolactin (PRL) levels. Ablation of this receptor in mice results in lactotroph hyperplasia and prolactinomas in aged females. Alternative splicing of the Drd2 gene generates 2 independent isoforms, a long (D2L) and a short (D2S) isoform, which are present in all D2R-expressing cells. Here, we addressed the role of D2L and D2S on lactotroph physiology through the generation and analysis of D2S-null mice and their comparison with D2L-null animals. These mice represent a valuable tool with which to investigate dopamine-dependent isoform-specific signaling in the pituitary gland. We sought to assess the existence of a more prominent role of D2L or D2S in controlling PRL expression and lactotroph hyperplasia. Importantly, we found that D2L and D2S are specifically linked to independent transduction pathways in the pituitary. D2L-mediated signaling inhibits the AKT/protein kinase B kinase activity whereas D2S, in contrast, is required for the activation of the ERK 1/2 pathway. Under normal conditions, presence of only 1 of the 2 D2R isoforms in vivo prevents hyperprolactinemia, formation of lactotroph's hyperplasia, and tumorigenesis that is observed when both isoforms are deleted as in D2R−/− mice. However, the protective function of the single D2R isoforms is overridden when single isoform-knockout mice are challenged by chronic estrogen treatments as they show increased PRL production and lactotroph hyperplasia. Our study indicates that signaling from each of the D2R isoforms is sufficient to maintain lactotroph homeostasis in physiologic conditions; however, signaling from both is necessary in conditions simulating pathologic states.
Design of a Novel Drug Carrier with Photoresponsive Properties: Drug-encapsulated and Alkanethiol-modified Gold-nanoparticle-loaded PEGylated Dendrimer
Authors: Kojima Chie , Kawabata Hiroki , Harada Atsushi , Horinaka Hiromichi , Kono Kenji
Published: April 2013

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) have been used in photothermal therapy and imaging applications, whereas PEGylated dendrimers have been used for the development of drug delivery systems. The loading of an Au NP into a PEGylated dendrimer has been reported previously in the literature. In this paper, Au NPs within the dendrimer have been modified with alkanethiols to improve their drug-loading ability, based on their enhanced inner hydrophobicity. Modifications allowing for the incorporation of a substantial amount of octadecanethiol led to an improvement in the drug-encapsulation ability of the PEGylated dendrimer.
Synthesis and Properties of Novel [5]Radialenes Substituted with Multiple 1,3-Dithiol-2-yildenes
Authors: Ueda Masafumi , Ogura Yui , Misaki Yohji
Published: April 2013

Novel [5]radialenes with four 1,3-dithiol-2-ylidene (DT) units (2) and ethylene analogs of [5]dendralene derivatives with five DT units (3) were synthesized. Cyclic voltammetry revealed that 2 exhibited two pairs of two-electron redox processes, whereas the bis(methylthio) derivative of 3 (3a) showed a simultaneous four-electron-transfer process.
Sir James Young Simpson and religion: myths and controversies
Authors: Cameron Ewen A , Macgillivray Neil
Published: April 2013

This paper analyses two key aspects of the life and work of Sir James Young Simpson: his evangelical Christianity and his reaction to criticism following his use of anaesthesia in obstetrics. Simpson's personal religious struggle is placed in the context of the devastating events surrounding the Disruption of the established Church of Scotland in 1843. Whatever his involvement in the events of that year, the development of his faith demonstrates his simple evangelical conviction in the atonement of Christ, very much in keeping with that of many believers in Victorian Britain. There has arisen the notion (still current as is clear from publications in medical journals within recent years) that there was a savage religious response, especially in Presbyterian Scotland, to his use of chloroform – in reality the attack on Simpson's enthusiastic promotion of chloroform was brief, sporadic and of little moment. Simpson's carefully constructed counter to criticism of anaesthesia, drawing on considerable theological and linguistic expertise, reveals a complexity at odds with the simplicity of his faith. The contrast is so great and the reaction so elaborate that it is proposed that Simpson deliberately exaggerated the affair, believing the publicity could only be valuable.
Program «Technology Platforms Russia» and information work on waste production
Authors: Гарнов  , Garnov Andrey , Голубин
Published: April 2013

In the article considers the experience of the European Union in the formation of «the technological platforms» — communication and coordination tool for association efforts of the government, business and science in determining the strategic «challenges», the development of programs for Advanced Studies, the ways of their realization and introduction of results. Describes the author’s opinion on some issues forming the section «Re-processing of waste production and consumption» in the approved Russian technological platform, «Ecological Technology Development».
Investment portfolio strategy formation (multiobjective optimization)
Authors: Худяков  , Khudyakov S.
Published: April 2013

In the article the transition from business process reengineering, the formation of the investment portfolio to the problems of optimization, formulated in a general form of multiobjective problems of a linear programming. The toolssupport reverse engineering on different levels of the value chain organization can justify the choice of the optimal economic strategies for the development and operation of companies.
Innovative procurement in business
Authors: Элларян
Published: April 2013

In this article author examines the background and tendencies of procurementdriven innovative practices in Russian business. Methods of innovation management in business widely used abroad are analyzed.
»Von Gott begnadete Schauspielerin«: Elisabeth Bergner in Israel
Authors: Feinberg Anat
Published: April 2013

In December 1949, the internationally acclaimed Jewish actress Elisabeth Bergner , one of the brightest stars of the German stage before 1933, toured the then newly founded State of Israel . She was known there by immigrants from Germany, and her films had been shown in pre-State Israel. Invited by the management of the Ohel Theater, the first professional ›workers’ theatre‹, she stayed for three months and gave seventy readings. In addition to official readings all over the country, she appeared before soldiers and gave volunteer charity appearances. Her programme included Schnitzler ’s
Economic change and the supply of interest representation in the American States
Authors: Lowery David , Gray Virginia , Cluverius John
Published: April 2013

We examine how economic change influences the supply of organized interests. Indeed, the economies of states have changed markedly since the turn of the century. State economies have grown, and the relative contributions of different economic sectors have changed. We use the Energy-Stability-Area model of interest system density to assess how these changes – along with changes in the productivity of different economic sectors in terms of generating organized interests – have influenced the size and composition of state interest communities from 1997 to 2007. We find that all three sources of economic change have uniquely contributed, and to a significant degree, to demographic change in state communities of organized interests.
Patenting for Global Markets: A U. S. Firm Meets the Demands of the New Globalism
Authors: Somaya Deepak
Published: April 2013

Beginning in the early 70s, ACME, a highly innovative and successful U.S. chemical firm, began commercializing an important and versatile polymer invention. This case study chronicles the many travails faced by ACME in obtaining patent protection for its innovations in major developed economies. ACME's experiences suggest that international differences in patent regimes that stem from ideological, historical, and institutional differences are pervasive, and need to be accounted for in a company's patenting approach. International strategy in the patent area is thus inherently multi-domestic. Further, we also observe that in global industries, obtaining a modicum of exclusivity through strong patent protection in certain key markets may be adequate to preserve a firm's competitive advantage versus multinational rivals. Moreover, a firm's patent strategy seems intrinsically integrated with its continuing innovative and commercial performance.
Appointed Courts, Elected Courts, and Public Utility Regulation: Judicial Independence and the Energy Crisis
Authors: Hanssen F. Andrew
Published: April 2013

This paper investigates the importance of variations in judicial institutions after a ‘shock’ has unraveled a regulatory status quo. State court decisions involving utility regulation are examined. Appointed state courts are generally agreed to be more independent than elected state courts. Before 1970, the primary participants in the process of utility regulation (and thus its largest beneficiaries) were the regulated firms and their commercial customers; afterwards, utility regulation increasingly accommodated consumer groups as well. Certain scholars have proposed that independent courts help keep administrative agencies from deviating from the original wishes of their political principals, and thus might be expected to slow down such changes in regulatory approach (which occurred with few alterations to the governing statutes). Other scholars have proposed instead that independent courts can decide as discretion dictates, and may thus lead such changes. The results of this analysis provide support for the latter view: controlling for other factors (such as partisan affiliation), more independent appointed courts sided more often with consumer groups while less independent elected courts sided more often with regulated firms and their large commercial customers.
Domestic Responses to Free Trade and Free Finance in OECD Countries
Authors: Verdier Daniel
Published: April 2013

For the first time in modern history, free trade coexists with free finance. Free trade and free finance (defined as the deregulation and internationalization of banking and finance) are not mutually reinforcing, but cause a mismatch between the demand and supply of financial instruments. Investors want more marketable instruments whereas entrepreneurs want more transaction-specific instruments. This mismatch potentially hurts small firms and local interests most. What can they do about it? It depends on state institutions. The more centralized the state, the fewer opportunities available to potential losers to curb free finance. Free finance is most successful in centralized countries, where resistance to free finance is least strongly felt. This hypothesis is systematically tested on a sample of OECD countries.