bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public health intelligence and the detection of potential pandemics
Authors: French Martin , Mykhalovskiy Eric
Published: December 2012

This article considers contemporary developments in public health intelligence (PHI), especially their focus on health events of pandemic potential. It argues that the sociological study of PHI can yield important insights for the sociology of pandemics. PHI aims to detect health events as (or evenbefore) they unfold. Whilst its apparatuses envelope traditional public health activities, such as epidemiological surveillance, they increasingly extend to non‐traditional public health activities such as data‐mining in electronically mediated social networks. With a focus on non‐traditional PHI activities, the article first situates the study of PHI in relation to the sociology of public health. It then discusses the conceptualisation and actualisation of pandemics, reflecting on how public health professionals and organisations must equip themselves with diverse allies in order to realise the claims they make about pandemic phenomena. Finally, using the analytic tools of actor‐network theory, sites for future empirical research that can contribute to the sociology of pandemics are suggested.
Using model‐based evidence in the governance of pandemics
Authors: Mansnerus Erika
Published: December 2012

Pandemic preparedness planning relies on techniques to extend epidemiological inference beyond the bounds of direct observation. Mathematical modelling and simulation techniques are used to predict the course of an outbreak or test various mitigation strategies in pre‐pandemic preparedness planning. This reflects an increasing reliance on quantifiable objects and establishing regulatory and governing practices by developing numerical assessment methods. This process has been described in terms of techne; the emergence of technologies and practices of calculation in the context of governance. This article develops a narrative framework to study how modelling methods are used in the governance of pandemic outbreaks by analysing both pre‐pandemic modelling practices and model‐based evidence used in pandemic risk assessment at the European Disease Control Centre. It examines how the modelling methods form techne through which the efforts of governance are organised. It concludes with a critical reflection on the limits of modelling methods by studying how they accommodate uncertainties.
Combining non‐cointegration tests
Authors: Bayer Christian , Hanck Christoph
Published: December 2012

The local power of many popular non‐cointegration tests has recently been shown to depend on a certain nuisance parameter. Depending on the value of that parameter, different tests perform best. This paper suggests combination procedures with the aim of providing meta tests that maintain high power across the range of the nuisance parameter.1 We demonstrate the local power of the new meta tests to be in general almost as high as that of the most powerful of the underlying tests. When the underlying tests have similar power, the meta tests even appear more powerful than the best underlying test. At the same time, our new meta tests avoid the arbitrary decision which test to use if individual test results conflict. Moreover it avoids the size distortion inherent in separately applying multiple tests for cointegration to the same dataset. We use the new tests to investigate 286 datasets from published cointegration studies. There, in one‐third of all cases individual tests give conflicting results whereas our meta tests provide an unambiguous test decision.
Sequential Sentinel SNP Regional Association Plots (SSS‐RAP): An Approach for Testing Independence of SNP Association Signals Using Meta‐Analysis Data
Authors: Zheng Jie , Gaunt Tom R. , Day Ian N. M.
Published: December 2012

Genome‐Wide Association Studies (GWAS) frequently incorporate meta‐analysis within their framework. However, conditional analysis of individual‐level data, which is an established approach for fine mapping of causal sites, is often precluded where only group‐level summary data are available for analysis. Here, we present a numerical and graphical approach, “sequential sentinel SNP regional association plot” (SSS‐RAP), which estimates regression coefficients (beta) with their standard errors using the meta‐analysis summary results directly. Under an additive model, typical for genes with small effect, the effect for a sentinel SNP can be transformed to the predicted effect for a possibly dependent SNP through a 2×2 2‐SNP haplotypes table. The approach assumes Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for test SNPs. SSS‐RAP is available as a Web‐tool (http://apps.biocompute.org.uk/sssrap/sssrap.cgi). To develop and illustrate SSS‐RAP we analyzed lipid and ECG traits data from the British Women's Heart and Health Study (BWHHS), evaluated a meta‐analysis for ECG trait and presented several simulations. We compared results with existing approaches such as model selection methods and conditional analysis. Generally findings were consistent. SSS‐RAP represents a tool for testing independence of SNP association signals using meta‐analysis data, and is also a convenient approach based on biological principles for fine mapping in group level summary data.
Neurofilament phosphorylation and their proline‐directed kinases in health and disease
Authors: Holmgren Anne , Bouhy Delphine , Timmerman Vincent
Published: December 2012

The intermediate filaments called neurofilaments (NFs) are the main cytoskeleton elements in neurons. They are mainly present in the adult axonal cytoskeleton, where they are extensively phosphorylated and their phosphorylation status is pivotal for their properties and functions. Specific phosphorylation of the C‐terminal domains of the large NF subunits has been implicated in radial axonal growth, NF bundling, and NF axonal transport. Many kinases and phosphatases are involved in regulating the NF phosphorylation status, and this complex interplay is of growing interest as hyperphosphorylation of NFs is a hallmark of several neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we focus on the in vivo relevance of C‐tail phosphorylation of the large NF subunits and give an overview of the kinases and phosphatases involved in regulating the phosphorylation status of the NFs.
Intrinsic microvasculature of the sciatic nerve in the rat
Authors: Zamir Mair , Twynstra Jasna , Vercnocke Andrew J. , Welch Ian , Jorgensen Steve M. , Ritman Erik L. , Holdsworth David W. , Shoemaker J. Kevin
Published: December 2012

Microvasculature associated with the sciatic nerve was examined using high‐resolution micro‐CT scanning in one group of rats and surgical exploration in another. The results indicate that blood supply to the sciatic nerve is an “open‐ended” system in which the vessels run longitudinally within the epineurium and connect with external vasculature primarily at junction points. Although the range of vasculature found extended down to 4–5 μ, only a few isolated vessels of this size were found, with no capillary “mesh” as such, possibly because of the close proximity of the intrinsic vessel to nerve fibers within the epineurium. While the study did not include direct measurements of flow or nerve function, the “open‐ended” pattern of vasculature found has important implications regarding the relationship between the two. Specifically, the nerve is less vulnerable to a severe or complete disruption in blood supply than it would be under a close‐ended system such as that of the heart or brain, where a severe disruption can occur with the obstruction of only a single vessel. Indeed, the pattern of vasculature found, subject to further study of vasculature at the capillary level, suggests that flow within the intrinsic vessels may be in either direction, depending on circumstances, somewhat like flow within the circle of Willis in the cerebral circulation.
Transthyretin‐related familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy: description of a cohort of patients with Leu64 mutation and late onset
Authors: Russo Massimo , Mazzeo Anna , Stancanelli Claudia , Di Leo Rita , Gentile Luca , Di Bella Gianluca , Minutoli Fabio , Baldari Sergio , Vita Giuseppe
Published: December 2012

Transthyretin‐related familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (TTR‐FAP) usually presents itself as a progressive sensorimotor polyneuropathy with severe autonomic dysfunction and cardiomyopathy. Eighteen patients carrying the Leu64 mutation underwent a series of regular follow‐ups, including: neurological examination, electroneurography, electromyography, electrocardiography and echocardiography, blood analysis, a questionnaire on autonomic symptoms, cardiovascular autonomic tests and a 99mTc‐DPD examination study. A late onset of a slowly progressive disease which reached its terminal stage after about 10  years was observed. The onset was mainly a length‐dependent sensory neuropathy, although a focal onset with carpal tunnel syndrome was detected in three patients. At the onset of the disease, autonomic dysfunction was present in a small number of patients, but, within a few years, this had manifested in all members of the sample group. The only extra‐neurological manifestations were cardiac related. It is reasonable to consider Southern Italy as an endemic focus of TTR‐FAP. An underestimation of disease prevalence could be caused by a late onset of FAP, which can manifest in patients up to their late 70s. Follow‐up of asymptomatic individuals may permit the early detection of symptoms and signs, allowing a detailed record of the natural history of the disease from the beginning and facilitating prompt treatment.
Upregulation of inward rectifying currents and Fabry disease neuropathy
Authors: Geevasinga Nimeshan , Tchan Michel , Sillence David , Vucic Steve
Published: December 2012

Peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain are common clinical manifestations of Fabry disease (FD). Although the mechanisms underlying the development of sensory neuropathy remain to be fully elucidated, a chronic ischemic process was proposed. Consequently, this study utilized axonal excitability techniques to gain further insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the development of FD neuropathy. Median motor and sensory axonal excitability studies were undertaken in 13 FD patients and results were compared to 19 healthy subjects. A “fanning‐in” of threshold electrotonus, suggestive of membrane depolarization, was evident only in motor axons in FD patients. In contrast, the sensory axons exhibited a lower threshold in FD (p < 0.05) and a significantly increased hyperpolarizing current/threshold (I/V) gradient (FD 0.48 ± 0.03; controls, 0.31 ± 0.02, p < 0.001), which correlated with clinical scores of disease severity (Rho = 0.65, p < 0.05), neuropathy (Rho = 0.54, p < 0.05) and neuropathic pain (Rho = 0.56, p < 0.05). These findings indicate that upregulation of Ih, rather than ischemia, may underlie the sensory symptoms and possibly development of neuropathy in FD. Modulation of sensory Ih may prove therapeutically useful in Fabry disease.
Myelin protein zero Arg36Gly mutation with very late onset and rapidly progressive painful neuropathy
Authors: Dacci Patrizia , Taroni Franco , Bella Eleonora Dalla , Milani Micaela , Pareyson Davide , Morbin Michela , Lauria Giuseppe
Published: December 2012

Mutations in myelin protein zero (MPZ) protein result in a wide spectrum of peripheral neuropathies, from congenital hypomyelinating to late onset sensory and motor axonal forms. In some patients, neuropathic pain can be a prominent symptom, making the diagnosis challenging mainly in those with other risk factors for neuropathy. We describe a 77‐year‐old woman with impaired glucose tolerance presenting with rapidly progressive axonal neuropathy leading to excruciating pain and severe weakness of lower limbs within 2 years from the onset. Her son abruptly complained of similar painful symptoms at the age of 47 years. Molecular analysis revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation (c.106A>G) in MPZ exon 2, causing the substitution of arginine‐36 with glycine in the extracellular domain. Our observation suggests that MPZ‐related neuropathy should be considered in the diagnostic work up of patients with painful axonal neuropathy even presenting with rapid progression and at a very late age of onset.
The Effect of Occlusal Surface Relief of Dies on Marginal Adaptation of Metal‐Ceramic Casting Copings
Authors: Saber Fariba Saleh , Abolfazli Nader , Mahboub Farhang , Razavi Fariba Emadian
Published: December 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of occlusal relief of dies on internal adaptation of metal‐ceramic casting copings.

Materials and Methods

Standardized preparations were made on 80 extracted third molar teeth. Impressions were made with poly(vinyl siloxane), and stone dies were prepared. Dies were covered with four layers of die spacer, covering the entire preparation together with the occlusal surface excluding the apical 0.5 mm of the preparation in group 1 (40 specimens), and covering the same area excluding the occlusal surface in group 2 (40 specimens). Copings were cast using nickel–chromium‐based metal ceramic alloy and cemented using zinc phosphate cement. The specimens were sectioned along the long axis. Internal discrepancies were recorded with a 0.001‐mm resolution stereoscope at 6 points: the middle of the occlusal surface (MO), middle of the lingual wall (ML), middle of the buccal wall (MB), middle of the buccal shoulder finish line (MSH), middle of the lingual chamfer finish line (MCH), and middle of the buccal bevel finish line (MBL). Student's t‐test was used for statistical analysis. Significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The marginal discrepancies of group 1 were higher than those of group 2. Significant differences in discrepancies were found on MO (p < 0.0001), MSH (p = 0.012), and MBL (p = 0.035). The bevel margin showed the least marginal discrepancy following occlusal surface of the die with no relief.

Conclusion

Leaving the occlusal part of the die uncovered with the die spacer improved the crown seating considerably in the occlusal surface as well as shoulder and bevel margins.
Effects of Oxalate Desensitizer with Different Resin Cement‐Retained Indirect Composite Inlays on Fracture Resistance of Teeth
Authors: Shafiei Fereshteh , Alavi Ali Asghar , Karimi Fatemeh , Ansarifard Elham
Published: December 2012

Purpose

This study investigated whether the tubular occluding effect of oxalate desensitizer (OX) during adhesive cementation (three resin cements) influenced fracture resistance of teeth restored with adhesive inlays.

Materials and Methods

Ninety intact maxillary premolars were randomly divided into 9 groups of 10 each. The two control groups were Gr 1, intact teeth and Gr 2, mesio‐occlusodistal preparation only. In six experimental groups, the composite inlays were cemented with ED Primer II/Panavia F 2.0, Excite DSC/Variolink II, and One‐Step Plus/Duolink according to manufacturers’ instructions (Groups 3, 5, and 7, respectively) or with OX during cementation (Groups 4, 6, and 8, respectively). In Group 9, inlays were cemented with a resin cement without adhesive system. After thermocycling, fracture strength was tested. The data were analyzed using two‐way and one‐way ANOVA and LSD post hoc tests (α = 0.05).

Results

Fracture resistance of the six groups were significantly affected by OX (p = 0.002) but not by the resin cement type (p > 0.05). The interaction of the two factors was statistically significant (p = 0.052). A statistically significant difference between all groups was found (p < 0.001). The mean fracture resistances (N) were: Gr1 = 1168 ± 157,a Gr2 = 360 ± 110,d Gr3 = 1026 ± 188,b Gr4 = 887 ± 143,c Gr5 = 1007 ± 132,b Gr6 = 810 ± 164,c Gr7 = 1033 ± 218,a Gr8 = 955 ± 147,ab Gr9 = 780 ± 86c (groups with the same superscript letter indicate statistical similarity).

Conclusions

Combining an OX with three resin cements had a significant negative effect on the fracture resistance of premolars restored with composite inlay cemented with Panavia F2.0 and Variolink II, but it had no significant effect when cemented with Duolink.
Fabricating an Interim Immediate Partial Denture in One Appointment (Modified Jiffy Denture). A Clinical Report
Authors: Gooya Ali , Ejlali Massod , Adli Amin Rezayi
Published: December 2012

An immediate denture is fabricated before all the remaining teeth have been removed. Its advantages include maintenance of a patient's appearance, muscle tone, facial height, tongue size, and normal speech and reduction of postoperative pain. The purpose of this study is to describe the use of a patient's fixed prosthesis for fabricating an interim immediate partial denture in one appointment. Occlusion, occlusal vertical dimension, and facial support are maintained during the healing period in this procedure.
Preoperative Intraoral Evaluation of Planned Fixed Partial Denture Pontics Using Silicone Putty
Authors: Mysore Ashwin Raghunandan , Aras Meena Ajay
Published: December 2012

A preoperative visualization and evaluation of fixed partial denture (FPD) pontics in the anterior dentition is necessary for both the patient and the dentist. Such an evaluation allows patients to decide whether the esthetic and functional parameters of the restoration meet their requirements and expectations. To facilitate such an assessment, a method that allows stable intraoral positioning of the pontics is required. This article describes a technique to achieve this in a simple and effective way before the abutments are prepared. In addition, it also allows the operator to modify the pontics intraorally for esthetics and later incorporate the same pontics into the interim prosthesis. The integration of this pretreatment pontic evaluation procedure into FPD restorations assures better results and patient satisfaction.
Influence of Corticosteroids on Interleukin‐1β‐Stimulated Equine Chondrocyte Gene Expression
Authors: Caron John P. , Gandy Jeff C. , Schmidt Michelle , Hauptman Joseph G. , Sordillo Lorraine M.
Published: December 2012

Objective

To compare the effects of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) on expression of selected chondrocyte genes in recombinant equine interleukin‐1β (reIL‐1β) stimulated articular cartilage explants.

Design

In vitroexperiment.

Animals

Horses (n = 6).

Procedures

Articular cartilage explants from 2‐ to 3‐ year‐old horses were exposed to reIL‐1β in the presence and absence of TA and MPA at 10−7and 10−6M. Resting levels of mRNA of anabolic and catabolic genes of chondrocyte origin were quantified using qPCR after 6‐ and 12‐hour incubations. Genes of interest included aggrecan interglobular domain, aggrecan, and collagen II, matrix metalloproteinases 3 and 13 (MMP3, MMP 13), aggrecanase 1, tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 2 (TIMP 1, TIMP 2), BCL 2, vascular endothelial growth factor, and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX 2).

Results

IL‐1β significantly influenced the expression of most transcripts. MPA and TA inhibited the induction of MMP 13 at 6 and 12 hours; an effect that was significant at 6 hours with MPA at 10−7M and TA at 10−6M. Similarly, COX 2 was induced by reIL‐1β and MPA and TA significantly inhibited its upregulation. TIMP 2 expression was reduced by reIL‐1β, an effect that was significantly abrogated by MPA and TA. There were no significant differences observed between glucocorticoids for any gene studied.

Conclusions

No differential effects of MPA or TA on chondrocytic gene expression were identified suggesting that any divergent influences of these glucocorticoids on chondrocyte metabolism are posttranslational.
Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating the Efficacy of Pulsed Signal Therapy in Dogs with Osteoarthritis
Authors: Sullivan Meghan O. , Gordon‐Evans Wanda J. , Knap Kim E. , Evans Richard B.
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of pulsed signal therapy (PST) in reducing pain and increasing function in dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) using a randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial.

Study Design

Randomized, controlled, blinded clinical trial.

Animals

Adult dogs (n = 60) with moderate‐to‐severe clinical signs of OA.

Methods

Dogs were randomized by age into 2 groups: dogs ≥ 9 years and dogs < 9‐years old. The control group received 1 hour of rest in hospital for 9 consecutive days and dogs in the treatment group received PST for 1 hour on 9 consecutive days.

Goniometry and gait analysis were performed, and the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) questionnaire was given to the owners to fill out without supervision. Outcome measures were repeated at the end of treatment (Day 11) and 6 weeks after beginning treatment (Day 42).

Results

The PST group performed significantly better than the control group as measured by the CBPI Severity and Interference scores (P< .01). Extension (P= .04) and peak vertical force (PVF) (P= .03) were not statistically significant after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Conclusions

The group receiving PST performed better than the treatment group according to owner assessment.
Individual Attitudes Toward Others, Misanthropy Analysis in a Cross‐Country Perspective
Authors: Melgar Natalia , Rossi Máximo , Smith Tom W.
Published: December 2012

While misanthropy has been analyzed taking into account one country and just comparing results, we employ the 2004 International Social Survey Program data set and assess its determinants from a cross‐country analysis by considering personal characteristics and country effects. Findings indicate that misanthropy is explained by sociodemographic and economic characteristics (being a woman, education, and marriage reduce misanthropy while being young or poor, and self‐employment have the opposite effect). Country effects result significant consequently, some environmental factors play a relevant role. Finally, we add new elements to the discussion by showing a strong relationship among our misanthropy ranking and two corruption perception rankings.
Economic Development, Native Nations, and Solar Projects
Authors: Dreveskracht Ryan David
Published: December 2012

This article examines the issues surrounding sustainable economic development in American Indian country via the implementation of solar energy projects. The second section addresses Native American economic development, generally, focusing on practical sovereignty, capable institutions, and cultural match. The third section discusses solar energy projects: the benefits of solar energy when compared to other types of energy production; the ways that these projects will benefit Indian country specifically; and the rationale behind implementing solar energy projects as a means to sustainable economic development in Indian country. The fourth section will briefly discuss the question: Given the advantages of solar energy that the article advocates, why is the uptake in Indian country not already prolific?
Toward an Integrated Theory of Social Stratification
Authors: Bowles Douglas
Published: December 2012

In the discipline of sociology, Marx, Durkheim, and Weber represent “classical” approaches to the study of stratification, from one or another of which most modern theory derives. In economics, Veblen's Theory of the Leisure Class represents an under‐utilized alternative to Marxian class analysis.

The argument advanced in this article is that a close reading of the introductory chapter to Veblen's Theory of the Leisure Class provides a useful framework for productive integration of the diverse traditions of stratification theory and class analysis descending in sociological thought from Marx, Durkheim, and Weber.
Mainstream Health Economics and Dignity: The Commodity Narrative as a Debilitating Solecism?
Authors: McMaster Robert
Published: December 2012

Mainstream health economics conceives health care as a commodity, at least metaphorically, and also attempts to quantify health, both of which, this article contends, lead to the objectification of the individual. Consequently, the standard approach distorts the nature of health care and does not furnish a sufficient basis for the promotion of human dignity; indeed, there is much to suggest it is a source of debilitation.
Corn and Mexican Agriculture: What Went Wrong?
Authors: Avalos Antonio , Graillet Eduardo
Published: December 2012

The debt crisis of the 1980s caused the development strategy pursued by the Mexican government to be subject to a radical adjustment process that triggered deep repercussions for the agricultural sector and its farmers, particularly in the corn sector. In combination with the aggressive agricultural policies sustained by the U.S. government, the new approach meant that Mexican agriculture operated within an economic environment characterized by significant asymmetries and distortions, some internal and some imposed by major trading partners. This article summarizes and documents the most salient results of these policy events as well as their implications for the corn sector, and discusses some of the challenges to repair the agricultural sector in Mexico.
The Effects of Task Involvement Load on L2 Incidental Vocabulary Learning: A Meta‐Analytic Study
Authors: HUANG SHUFEN , WILLSON VICTOR , ESLAMI ZOHREH
Published: December 2012

This meta‐analytic study provides a systematic statistical synthesis of the effects of output tasks on second or foreign incidental vocabulary learning. A total of 12 studies were included in this meta‐analysis. Five mediator variables were examined: design quality, types of output task, time on task, genres of text, and text–target word ratios. Results show that language learners who completed an output task outperformed those who only read a text. Results also support the involvement load hypothesis: Language learners who performed a task with a higher degree of involvement load, gained more vocabulary. Studies with high and medium levels of design quality were more likely to detect statistically significant differences among groups with different output tasks, compared to studies with a low level of design quality. Furthermore, results indicate that time on task had positive effects on vocabulary learning. Learners who read a combination of expository and narrative text gained more vocabulary than those who only read either an expository or narrative text. Learners who read a text with text–target word ratios of less than or equal to 2% did not learn significantly more vocabulary than those who read a text with a ratio of 2% to 5%.
Imagined Communities and Language Socialization Practices in Transnational Space: A Case Study of Two Korean “Study Abroad” Families in the United States
Authors: Song Juyoung
Published: December 2012

This is a yearlong ethnographic case study of 2 study abroad South Korean families' language socialization practices in their home. It explored how these parents', particularly the mothers', future visions of their returning community in South Korea influenced their home language socialization practices. As their future vision, it employed the notion of “imagined communities” (ICs) (Anderson, 1991; Kanno & Norton, 2003; Norton, 2001; Norton & Pavlenko, 2007). The data from interviews and participant observations revealed that these 2 mothers not only created different ICs, but also aligned themselves differently with their ICs. I argue that each family's unique negotiation of multiple memberships among communities they left behind, local ones, and ones they hoped to become part of in the future caused that diversity, which led to their divergent practices and attitudes toward different languages in their home. Furthermore, having membership renewal as the main goal in their IC, these families strived to maximize their language learning opportunities overseas and at the same time imposed constraints on their daily practices through language ideologies brought from their ICs.
Positioning the Expert: Word Searches, Expertise, and Learning Opportunities in Peer Interaction
Authors: Reichert Tetyana , Liebscher Grit
Published: December 2012

The goal of this article is to further our understanding of how learning opportunities are created in interactions. Based on a conversation analysis of peer interactions of foreign language learners, we investigate how the negotiation of expert positions among these learners affects this process. The focus of the analysis is on the relationship between the conversation analytic notion of “doing‐being‐an‐expert” and learning in the context of word searches. We challenge the fixed notions of expert and novice and highlight the roles of interpersonal context, tools, and positioning in the negotiation of expertise. Drawing on the socio‐interactionist notion of situating learning in interaction, we argue that there is a link between the negotiation of expert positions and opportunities for learning.
Tale of Two Tales: Locally Produced Accounts and Memberships During Research Interviews With a Multilingual Speaker
Authors: MORI JUNKO
Published: December 2012

A growing number of studies have examined qualitative research interviews in terms of how researchers' own identities and agendas are implicated in the construction of interviewees' responses. Adopting the constructionist conception of research interviews, the current study introduces a comparative analysis of 2 interviews with a multilingual speaker of Korean, English, and Japanese conducted by 2 researchers who come from distinctive cultural, linguistic, and professional backgrounds. Informed by ethnomethodology, conversation analysis, and membership categorization analysis, the current analysis reveals how the interviewee came to co‐construct a different set of accounts with each interviewer in comparable segments where the same topics were discussed. The focal segments examined in this study can be seen as an illustration of how this Korean student interacting in her everyday life with others may co‐construct her ever‐shifting identities vis‐à‐vis membership categories such as American, Korean, or Korean‐American.
Affluent Neighborhood Persistence and Change in U.S. Cities
Authors: Solari Claudia D.
Published: December 2012

Places are stratified along a hierarchy, with the affluent occupying the most resource–rich neighborhoods. Affluent neighborhood advantages include safety, high quality schools, and proximity to jobs. An additional benefit may be local economic stability over time. In a national context of rising interpersonal income inequality since 1970 and of the Great Recession, trends in neighborhood persistence and change expose this spatial advantage of the affluent. Using census data from 1970 to 2010, I find increasing rates of stability in the affluence and poverty of neighborhoods through 2000, with declines during the last decade. I also find that rates of chronic poverty and persistent affluence are high, ranging between 30 and 35 percent of neighborhoods across the 40–year period. This study highlights the structural persistence of affluence and poverty of neighborhoods as a vehicle for perpetuating social inequality and economic segregation.
Benchmark Dose Profiles for Joint‐Action Quantal Data in Quantitative Risk Assessment
Authors: Deutsch Roland C. , Piegorsch Walter W.
Published: December 2012

SummaryBenchmark analysis is a widely used tool in public health risk analysis. Therein, estimation of minimum exposure levels, called Benchmark Doses (BMDs), that induce a prespecified Benchmark Response (BMR) is well understood for the case of an adverse response to a single stimulus. For cases where two agents are studied in tandem, however, the benchmark approach is far less developed. This article demonstrates how the benchmark modeling paradigm can be expanded from the single‐dose setting to joint‐action, two‐agent studies. Focus is on response outcomes expressed as proportions. Extending the single‐exposure setting, representations of risk are based on a joint‐action dose–response model involving both agents. Based on such a model, the concept of a benchmark profile (BMP) – a two‐dimensional analog of the single‐dose BMD at which both agents achieve the specified BMR – is defined for use in quantitative risk characterization and assessment. The resulting, joint, low‐dose guidelines can improve public health planning and risk regulation when dealing with low‐level exposures to combinations of hazardous agents.
Smoothing Splines: Methods and Applications by WANG, Y.
Authors: Du Pang
Published: December 2012

EDITOR: GUILHERME J. M. ROSA

Smoothing Splines: Methods and Applications

(Y. Wang)

Pang Du

Statistics for Spatio‐Temporal Data

(N. Cressie and C. K. Wikle)

Ole F. Christensen

Bayesian Modeling in Bioinformatics

(D. K. Dey, S. Ghosh, and B. K. Mallick, eds.)

Hisashi Noma

Randomized Response and Indirect Questioning Techniques in Surveys

(A. Chaudhuri)

Mariano R. Espejo

Designs and Analysis of Experiments, Volume 3: Special Designs and Applications

(K. Hinkelmann, ed.)

Luzia Trinca
SOX1 antibodies in Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome and screening for small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Lipka Alexander F. , Verschuuren Jan J.G.M. , Titulaer Maarten J.
Published: December 2012

Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is an autoimmune disorder of the neuromuscular synapse. About half of LEMS patients have an associated small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC), which is usually detected after diagnosis of LEMS. This short review summarizes clinical and serological markers shown to predict the presence of SCLC in LEMS patients. SOX1 antibodies are a specific marker for SCLC‐LEMS but they are also found in SCLC patients without paraneoplastic neurological syndromes. No relation to any clinical characteristic or survival effect has been found for SOX1‐positive patients. Several clinical markers also discriminate between SCLC‐LEMS and nontumor LEMS. Detailed analysis of these clinical and demographic characteristics from two independent patient cohorts has led to development of the DELTA‐P score. This prediction model has provided for a simple clinical tool to indicate the presence of SCLC early in the course of the disease. The DELTA‐P score can be used to guide tumor screening in individual patients.
Design of the Efficacy of Prednisone in the Treatment of Ocular Myasthenia (EPITOME) trial
Authors: Benatar Michael , Sanders Donald B. , Wolfe Gil I. , McDermott Michael P. , Tawil Rabi
Published: December 2012

Efficacy of Prednisone in the Treatment of Ocular Myasthenia (EPITOME) is a multicenter, randomized, double blind, placebo‐controlled trial that is being conducted under the auspices of the Muscle Study Group. EPITOME is the first randomized control trial in patients with ocular myasthenia and aims to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of prednisone over a period of four months in patients with newly diagnosed ocular myasthenia whose symptoms have failed to remit in response to a trial of cholinesterase inhibitor therapy.
Antigen‐specific apheresis of autoantibodies in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Lazaridis Konstantinos , Zisimopoulou Paraskevi , Lagoumintzis George , Skriapa Labrini , Trakas Nikos , Evangelakou Panagiota , Kanelopoulos Ioannis , Grapsa Eirini , Poulas Kostas , Tzartos Socrates
Published: December 2012

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder affecting the neuromuscular junction, usually caused by autoantibodies against the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) or the muscle‐specific kinase (MuSK). Our aim is the development of a therapy based on the selective extracorporeal elimination of anti‐AChR or anti‐MuSK antibodies. To this end, the extracellular domains of the AChR subunits and MuSK have been expressed in yeast to be used as adsorbents, after optimization, and to obtain large quantities of proteins with near‐native structure. We have characterized these proteins with respect to their use as specific immunoadsorbents for MG autoantibodies, and have begun large‐scale experiments in order to verify the feasibility of application of the method for therapy. Furthermore, we have initiated animal studies to test possible toxicity and safety issues of the adsorbents or the procedure itself. The successful completion of the scale‐up and safety tests will allow the initiation of clinical trials.
Identification of DPAGT1 as a new gene in which mutations cause a congenital myasthenic syndrome
Authors: Belaya Katsiaryna , Finlayson Sarah , Cossins Judith , Liu Wei Wei , Maxwell Susan , Palace Jacqueline , Beeson David
Published: December 2012

Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a group of inherited disorders that arise from impaired signal transmission at the neuromuscular synapse. They are characterized by fatigable muscle weakness. This is a heterogenous group of disorders with 15 different genes implicated in the development of the disease. Using whole‐exome sequencing we identified DPAGT1 as a new gene associated with CMS. DPAGT1 catalyses the first step of N‐linked protein glycosylation. DPAGT1 patients are characterized by weakness of limb muscles, response to treatment with cholinesterase inhibitors, and the presence of tubular aggregates on muscle biopsy. We showed that DPAGT1 is required for glycosylation of acetylcholine receptor (AChR) subunits and efficient export of AChR to the cell surface. We suggest that the primary pathogenic mechanism of DPAGT1‐associated CMS is reduced levels of AChRs at the endplate region. This finding demonstrates that impairment of the N‐linked glycosylation pathway can lead to the development of CMS.
New horizons for congenital myasthenic syndromes
Authors: Engel Andrew G. , Shen Xin‐Ming , Selcen Duygu , Sine Steven
Published: December 2012

During the past five years an increasing number of patients have been diagnosed with congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) and a number of novel syndromes have been recognized and investigated. This presentation focuses on the CMS caused by defects in choline acetyltransferase, novel fast‐channel syndromes that hinder isomerization of the acetylcholine receptor from the closed to the open state, the consequences of deleterious mutations in the intermediate filament linker plectin, altered neuromuscular transmission in a centronuclear myopathy, and two recently identified CMS caused by congenital defects in glycosylation.
The search for new antigenic targets in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Cossins Judith , Belaya Katsiaryna , Zoltowska Katarzyna , Koneczny Inga , Maxwell Susan , Jacobson Leslie , Leite Maria Isabel , Waters Patrick , Vincent Angela , Beeson David
Published: December 2012

Around 80% of myasthenia gravis patients have antibodies against the acetylcholine receptor, and 0–60% of the remaining patients have antibodies against the muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase, MuSK. Another recently identified antigen is low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 4 (Lrp4). To improve the existing assays and widen the search for new antigenic targets, we have employed cell‐based assays in which candidate target proteins are expressed on the cell surface of transfected cells and probed with patient sera. These assays, combined with use of myotube cultures to explore the effects of the antibodies, enable us to begin to identify new antigenic targets and test antibody pathogenicity in vitro.
Experimental myasthenia gravis in Aire‐deficient mice: a link between Aire and regulatory T cells
Authors: Aricha Revital , Feferman Tali , Berrih‐Aknin Sonia , Fuchs Sara , Souroujon Miriam C.
Published: December 2012

Aire (autoimmune regulator) has a key role in the establishment of tolerance to autoantigens. Aire−/− mice present decreased thymic expression of AChR, significantly lower frequencies of regulatory T (Treg) cells, and higher expression of Th17 markers, compared to controls. We therefore predicted that Aire−/− mice would be more susceptible to induction of experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG). However, when EAMG was induced in young mice, Aire−/− mice presented a milder disease that wild‐type (WT) controls. In contrast, when EAMG was induced in older mice, Aire−/− mice were more severely affected than WT mice. The relative resistance to EAMG in young Aire−/− mice correlated with increased numbers of Treg cells in their spleens compared to young controls. A similar age‐related susceptibility was also observed when EAE was induced in Aire−/− mice, suggesting an age‐related link among Aire, disease susceptibility, and peripheral Treg cells that may be a general feature of autoimmunity.
Safety Studies Conducted on a Sanitizing Agent Containing Benzalkonium Chloride
Authors: Dolan Laurie C. , Wheeler Jack A. , Burdock George A.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  Free N Clear is a sanitizing agent composed of United States Pharmacopeial Convention grade benzalkonium chloride (BAC), acetic acid, and methylparaben. Free N Clear is proposed for use as a sanitizing agent at a 1 : 50 dilution (2% solution), which contains approximately 100 ppm BAC. As part of a program to assess its safety, a 2% solution of Free N Clear (diluted Free N Clear) was administered by gavage to Sprague‐Dawley rats for 91 d and tested for genetic toxicity in vitro and in vivo. In the 91 d study, the no observable adverse‐effect level of diluted Free N Clear in male and female Sprague‐Dawley rats is 5000 mg/kg bw/day, the highest dose administered. Diluted Free N Clear was not mutagenic in a bacterial reverse mutation assay that tested concentrations extending into the toxic range, and did not increase the frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in bone marrow cells of male or female Sprague‐Dawley rats when tested at the maximum permissible dose volume of 20 mL/kg bw. The results support safety of Free N Clear, when used at the concentration proposed for use.

Practical Application:  The significance of these findings will allow for the development of Free N Clear as a potential sanitizing agent for food.
Screening and Identification of Functional Lactobacillus Specific for Vegetable Fermentation
Authors: Xiong Tao , Song Suhua , Huang Xuhui , Feng Chao , Liu Guangquan , Huang Jinqing , Xie Mingyong
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  In this study, functional lactic acid bacteria (LAB) specific for vegetable fermentation were screened from Chinese sauerkraut brine by designing purpose media. The selected LAB strains showed excellent tolerance to high concentrations of bile salt and acids. They can also survive passage through the simulated gastric fluid and may be able to reach to the intestine. Through the performance measurements of vegetable fermentation, one of these strains, NCU116 was found to have the best fermentation ability, and further subjected to a series of analyses including identification of physiological and biochemical characteristics, 16S rDNA and pheS sequencing. Taken together, the strain NCU116 was identified as Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum. These results laid a good foundation for the fermentation research in the future.
Effects of Fatty Acid Composition and β‐Carotene on the Chlorophyll Photosensitized Oxidation of W/O Emulsion Affected by Phosphatidylcholine
Authors: Lee Yoosung , Choe Eunok
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  Chlorophyll photosensitized oxidation of W/O emulsion consisting of oils with different fatty acid composition was studied and β‐carotene effects on the singlet oxygen oxidation affected by phosphatidylcholine were evaluated by determining peroxide value (PV) and conjugated dienoic acid (CDA) contents. An emulsion was composed of purified oil (sunflower, soybean, canola, or olive oil), water, and xanthan gum (50:50:0.35, w/w/w) with addition of phosphatidylcholine (0 or 250 ppm) and β‐carotene (0, 1, 5, or 10 ppm). PV and CDA content of oil in the emulsion were increased with time under chlorophyll photosensitized oxidation, and the oxidation rate was higher in the emulsion consisting of sunflower or soybean oil whose polyunsaturated fatty acids content was high compared to canola or olive oil. Addition of β‐carotene to the emulsion significantly decreased the oil oxidation under chlorophyll photosensitization, however, co‐addition of phosphatidylcholine decreased the antioxidant activity of β‐carotene, suggesting an antagonistic antioxidation between them.

Practical Application:  The results of this study can be applied to the area of emulsion foods such as salad dressing to have improved texture and stability by decreasing the oil oxidation and providing desirable color by use of β‐carotene with phosphatidylcholine as emulsifier.
Effect of Chitosan Nanoparticles and Pectin Content on Mechanical Properties and Water Vapor Permeability of Banana Puree Films
Authors: Martelli Milena R. , Barros Taís T. , de Moura Márcia R. , Mattoso Luiz H. C. , Assis Odilio B. G.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  Puree prepared from over‐ripe peeled bananas was used as raw material for films processing in a laboratory padder. Pectin and glycerol as plasticizer were added in small concentrations and chitosan nanoparticles (88.79 ± 0.42 nm medium size) incorporated at 0.2% (dry weight basis) as reinforcement material. The mechanical properties, water vapor transmission, thermal stability, and scanning electron microscopy of fractured film surfaces were characterized. Both pectin and glycerol demonstrated an important role in promoting elongation and film handability as was expected. The incorporation of nanoparticles promoted noticeable improvement of the mechanical properties and acted in reducing the water vapor permeation rate, by 21% for films processed with pectin and up to 38% for films processed without pectin, when compared to the control (puree films with no pectin and nanoparticles additions). Microscopic observation revealed a denser matrix when nanoparticles are incorporated into the films.

Practical Application:  The development of films from fruit purees head to a new strategy for plastic processing from natural resources. The over‐ripe or even waste banana can be adequately prepared for batch films processed with reasonable mechanical and barrier properties, suitable for applications in the food segment. The addition of small fractions of chitosan nanoparticles, form nanocomposites enhancing mechanical and thermal stability broadening potential film applications.
Characterization of the Red Layer and Pericarp of Processing Tomato using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Zhang Lu , Barrett Diane M. , McCarthy Michael J.
Published: December 2012

Abstract:  The characteristics of tomato pericarp are closely associated with peelabililty, an important quality attribute of processing tomatoes. Different types of tissue exist in the pericarp of tomato. The outermost region of the pericarp, the red layer, is removed with the skin during peeling. This study investigated the morphological features and tissue properties of red layer and pericarp for 3 processing tomato cultivars using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The red layer can be visualized in MR images with T2 weighting, indicating the red layer has different properties compared to the rest of the pericarp region. Tomatoes were imaged with a set of MRI sequences with signal intensity dependent on different water proton properties. Principal component analysis (PCA) of the statistical features revealed clustering of fruit by cultivar. The spatial distribution of cultivars in the PCA score plot followed their rank of peeling performance. MRI demonstrated potential as a nondestructive method to characterize tomato pericarp and evaluate the peelability of processing tomatoes.

Practical Application:  Peelability of tomatoes affects the quality of value‐added whole peel and diced tomato products. The properties of the pericarp of tomato are directly related to the peelability of tomatoes. MRI provided a fast and nondestructive method to characterize the properties of tomato pericarp. The result of this work gives insight into the correlation between tomato pericarp characteristics and peelability.