bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translating in a forked tongue: Interlinear glosses as a creative device in Japanese translations
Authors: Wakabayashi Judy
Published: November 2012

An intriguing contrapuntal device available to Japanese translators and writers is small-font glosses known as rubi, marginalia juxtaposed alongside words or phrases to fulfil a multitude of functions. Moving far beyond their original role of a phonetic aid, rubi are often used bivocally to produce not only two unrelated pronunciations of a word but also an extra semantic layer, helping to transcend the limitations of conventional translational equivalents. Rubi glosses can enhance a word’s expressiveness, emphasize, exaggerate, elucidate or delimit its meaning, convey a different register or speech mode, or act as a paraphrase or inside joke. The double layering and shifting focus provided by different headword-rubi permutations enable translators to convey the meaning of source text concepts while retaining their foreignness, including a representation of the original sound (an aspect that is usually sacrificed when meaning is translated). Rubi can also have a subversive function, destabilizing the headword by qualifying or relativizing its meaning or acting as an intimate critique or commentary. Thus these in-text excurses often exist in a state of tension, an uneasy embrace, with the words to which they are attached. This article examines how rubi enable and exploit to good effect the elaborate interplay amongst different scripts, sound and meaning in Japanese translations, and suggests that some aspects of this double-voiced practice could be adapted by translators in other languages as an avenue for heteroglossic experimentation.
Translation and cultural mediation: The case of advertising in Canada
Authors: Quillard Geneviève
Published: November 2012

This study is based on a computerized corpus of advertisements published in the last twenty five years in North American magazines, and the translations of these advertisements for the French Canadian readership. Drawing primarily on work published in the area of cultural studies and on such concepts as low/high context cultures, high/low power distance cultures, universalism/particularism, individualism/collectivism, monochronic/ synchronic cultures, etc., this paper analyses some differences between the North American advertisements and their translated versions in the following areas : dietary practices, relationship between addresser and addressees, and social interactions.
Space tribology: its role in spacecraft mechanisms
Authors: Roberts E W
Published: November 2012

The subject of tribology encompasses the friction, wear and lubrication of mechanical components such as bearings and gears. Tribological practices are aimed at ensuring that such components operate with high efficiency (low friction) and achieve long lives. On spacecraft mechanisms the route to achieving these goals brings its own unique challenges. This review describes the problems posed by the space environment, the types of tribological component used on spacecraft and the approaches taken to their lubrication. It is shown that in many instances lubrication needs can be met by synthetic oils having exceedingly low volatilities, but that at temperature extremes the only means of reducing friction and wear is by solid lubrication. As the demands placed on space engineering increase, innovatory approaches will be needed to solve future tribological problems. The direction that future developments might take is anticipated and discussed.
Coupling coefficient calculation for GaSb-based quantum well distributed feedback lasers with laterally coupled gratings
Authors: Wang Y B , Xu Y , Zhang Y , Song G F , Chen L H
Published: November 2012

We calculated the coupling coefficient of different types of laterally coupled distributed feedback (LC-DFB) structures with coupled-wave theory and the two-dimensional semivectorial finite difference method. Effects neglected in previous studies such as other partial waves, the ohmic contact and metal contact layers are taken into account in this calculation. The LC-DFB structure with metal gratings is especially studied due to its advantage over index-coupled structures. The dependence of coupling coefficient on structure parameters is theoretically calculated such as grating order, ridge width, thickness of the residual cladding layer, grating depth and lateral proximity of gratings to the ridge waveguide. A complex-coupled GaSb-based 2 µm LC-DFB structure is optimized to achieve a high coupling coefficient of 14.5 cm−1.
Characterization and modelling of low-pressure rf discharges at 2–500 MHz for miniature alkali vapour dielectric barrier discharge lamps
Authors: Venkatraman Vinu , Pétremand Yves , Rooij Nico de , Shea Herbert
Published: November 2012

Low-pressure dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) alkali vapour lamps are of particular interest for portable atomic clocks because they (1) could enable low-power operation, (2) generate the precise required wavelength, (3) are planar simplifying chip-level integration and (4) use external electrodes, which increases the lifetime. Given the stringent requirements on lamps for atomic clocks, it is important to identify the parameters that can be optimized to meet these performance requirements (size, power consumption, stability, reliability). We report on the electrical and optical characteristics of dielectric barrier plasma discharges observed in two configurations: (1) in a vacuum chamber over a wide low-pressure range (2–100 mbar) for three different buffer gases (He, Ar, N2) driven at different frequencies between 2 and 500 MHz and (2) on microfabricated hermetically sealed Rb vapour cells filled with 30 and 70 mbar of Ar. We discuss the optimum conditions for a low-power and stable operation of a Rb vapour DBD lamp, aimed at chip-scale atomic clocks. We also present the electrical modelling of the discharge parameters to understand the power distribution mechanisms and the input power to discharge power coupling efficiency.
Measurement of neoclassically predicted edge current density at ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Dunne M.G. , McCarthy P.J. , Wolfrum E. , Fischer R. , Giannone L. , Burckhart A.
Published: November 2012

Experimental confirmation of neoclassically predicted edge current density in an ELMy H-mode plasma is presented. Current density analysis using the CLISTE equilibrium code is outlined and the rationale for accuracy of the reconstructions is explained. Sample profiles and time traces from analysis of data at ASDEX Upgrade are presented. A high time resolution is possible due to the use of an ELM-synchronization technique. Additionally, the flux-surface-averaged current density is calculated using a neoclassical approach. Results from these two separate methods are then compared and are found to validate the theoretical formula. Finally, several discharges are compared as part of a fuelling study, showing that the size and width of the edge current density peak at the low-field side can be explained by the electron density and temperature drives and their respective collisionality modifications.
Effect of nitrate concentration during growth on carbon partitioning and sink strength in chicory
Authors: Ameéziane R. , Limami M.A. , Noctor G. , Morot-Gaudry J.-F.
Published: November 2012

Chicory plants (Cichorium intybus), which produce a tuberized root containing high concentrations of fructans, were grown with nitrate at either optimal (4 mol m−3) or suboptimal (0.6 mol m−3) concentration. At 120 DAS (days after sowing), shoot/root dry mass ratio in the plants grown at low N was less than one-third of that of plants grown at the higher concentration. This reflected differences in shoot dry mass, as root dry mass was similar in the two treatments. Pulse-chase experiments with 14CO2 showed increased allocation of carbon to the root and decreased partitioning to the growing shoot in the plants grown at low N. Root activities of three enzymes involved in sucrose and fructan metabolism were measured, in an attempt to identify the factors which determine sink strength. Whereas invertase activity showed little difference between the treatments, sucrose synthase and particularly sucrose-sucrose fructosyl transferase were higher in the roots of plants grown at low N. Activity of SST was also much greater in roots of young plants synthesizing large amounts of fructan than in mature roots no longer producing fructan. It is, therefore, suggested that SST plays a role in determining the sink strength. Possible interactions between N status and SST activity/sink strength are discussed.
TMS stimulation coils
Authors: Epstein Charles M.
Published: November 2012

The simplest transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) coil is a circular one. The induced current is maximum near the outer edge of the coil while the magnetic field is the maximum under the center of the coil. TMS coils have good penetration to the cerebral cortex. They are commonly placed at the cranial vertex, where they can stimulate both hemispheres simultaneously. The main drawback of circular coils is their lack of focality. Several complex designs for multiloop coils have been proposed to increase the focality or improve the penetration to deep brain structures. This article describes factors of TMS coil design such as mechanical forces and coil lead wires, cooling systems, materials of construction of coil windings, etc. To reduce the risk of lethal electrical shock the entire high-voltage power system, including the lead wires and stimulation coil, must be isolated from earth ground.
First Report of Colletotrichum acutatum Associated with Stem Blight of Blueberry Plants in China
Authors: Xu C.-N. , Zhou Z.-S. , Wu Y.-X. , Chi F.-M. , Ji Z.-R. , Zhang H.-J.
Published: November 2012

An anthracnose disease was observed on stems of high-bush blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) in Liaoning Province, China in 2012. The typical symptoms consist of sudden wilting and dieback of stems during the growing season. Dark brown lesions originate from infected buds and kill portions of the stems. Lesions have grayish white centers, with the necrotic areas becoming 6 to 8 cm in length. Disinfected stem pieces were placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated at 28°C for 5 to 7 days, after which the emerging colonies were transferred to fresh PDA. All isolates initially produced white growth, but turned pink after 7 days before becoming blackish green. The average colony diameter was 65.5 to 75.0 mm after 7 days. Conidia were aseptate, hyaline, fusiform to ellipsoid, 8.5 to 16.5 × 2.5 to 4.0 μm in size and single celled with two to seven oil globules. Setae were not found on the acervuli. These characteristics matched published descriptions of Colletotrichum acutatum (1) (teleomorph Glomerella acutata). Pathogenicity test was confirmed in 15 2-year-old healthy potted plants of cv. Berkeley. Stems of 10 plants were punctured with flamed needles and sprayed with 5 ml of conidial suspension (106 conidia per ml in sterile distilled water) of isolate LNSW1. Five control plants were inoculated with sterile distilled water. Seven days after inoculation, eight of the 10 blueberry plants exhibited stem lesions, leaf chlorosis, followed by branch dieback 15 days post-inoculation. The symptoms were similar to those observed on diseased plants in the field, and no lesions were observed on control plants. The pathogen was reisolated from the margin of lesions and identified by colony growth characteristics on PDA. PCR amplification of one isolate (LNSW1) was carried out by utilizing the universal rDNA-ITS primer pair ITS1/ITS4. The sequence (557 bp) of isolate LNSW1 (GenBank Accession No. JX392857) showed 99% identity to G. acutata (AB443950) and C. acutatum (AJ749672) in a BLAST search. An approximately 490-bp fragment was amplified from LNSW1 by the species-specific primer pair CaInt2/ITS4 (2). The pathogen was identified as G. acutata (asexual stage: C. acutatum J.H. Simmonds) on the basis of morphological characters, rDNA-ITS sequence analysis, and a PCR product with species-specific primers. To our knowledge, this is the first report of C. acutatum in high-bush blueberry plants in China.

References: (1) C. Lei et al. Fungal Diversity 12:183, 2009. (2) S. Sreenivasaprasad et al. Plant Pathol. 45:650, 1996
Advances in understanding chromosome silencing by the long non-coding RNA Xist
Authors: Sado Takashi , Brockdorff Neil
Published: November 2012

In female mammals, one of the two X chromosomes becomes genetically silenced to compensate for dosage imbalance of X-linked genes between XX females and XY males. X chromosome inactivation (X-inactivation) is a classical model for epigenetic gene regulation in mammals and has been studied for half a century. In the last two decades, efforts have been focused on the X inactive-specific transcript (Xist) locus, discovered to be the master regulator of X-inactivation. TheXistgene produces a non-coding RNA that functions as the primary switch for X-inactivation, coating the X chromosome from which it is transcribedin cis. Significant progress has been made towards understanding howXistis regulated at the onset of X-inactivation, but our understanding of the molecular basis of silencing mediated by Xist RNA has progressed more slowly. A picture has, however, begun to emerge, and new tools and resources hold out the promise of further advances to come. Here, we provide an overview of the current state of our knowledge, what is known about Xist RNA and how it may trigger chromosome silencing.
piRNA and spermatogenesis in mice
Authors: Chuma Shinichiro , Nakano Toru
Published: November 2012

Transposable elements and their fossil sequences occupy about half of the genome in mammals. While most of these selfish mobile elements have been inactivated by truncations and mutations during evolution, some copies remain competent to transpose and/or amplify, posing an ongoing genetic threat. To control such mutagenic sequences, host genomes have developed multiple layers of defence mechanisms, including epigenetic regulation and RNA silencing. Germ cells, in particular, employ the piwi–small RNA pathway, which plays a central and adaptive role in safeguarding the germline genome from retrotransposons. Recent studies have revealed that a class of developmentally regulated genes, which have long been implicated in germ cell specification and differentiation, such asvasaandtudorfamily genes, play key roles in the piwi pathway to suppress retrotransposons, indicating that the piwi-mediated genome protection is at the core of germline development. Furthermore, while the piwi system primarily operates post-transcriptionally at the RNA level, it also affects the epigenetics of cognate genome loci, offering an intriguing link between small RNAs and transcriptional control in mammals. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of the piwi pathway in mice, which is emerging as a fundamental component of spermatogenesis that ensures male fertility and genome integrity.
Identification of Two Novel Endoplasmic Reticulum Body-Specific Integral Membrane Proteins
Authors: Yamada Kenji , Nagano Atsushi J. , Nishina Momoko , Hara-Nishimura Ikuko , Nishimura Mikio
Published: November 2012

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) body, a large compartment specific to the Brassicales, accumulates β-glucosidase and possibly plays a role in the defense against pathogens and herbivores. Although the ER body is a subdomain of the ER, it is unclear whether any ER body-specific membrane protein exists. In this study, we identified two integral membrane proteins of the ER body in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and termed them MEMBRANE PROTEIN OF ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM BODY1 (MEB1) and MEB2. In Arabidopsis, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, NAI1, and an ER body component, NAI2, regulate ER body formation. The expression profiles of MEB1 and MEB2 are similar to those of NAI1, NAI2, and ER body β-glucosidase PYK10 in Arabidopsis. The expression of MEB1 and MEB2 was reduced in the nai1 mutant, indicating that NAI1 regulates the expression of MEB1 and MEB2 genes. MEB1 and MEB2 proteins localize to the ER body membrane but not to the ER network, suggesting that these proteins are specifically recruited to the ER body membrane. MEB1 and MEB2 physically interacted with ER body component NAI2, and they were diffused throughout the ER network in the nai2 mutant, which has no ER body. Heterologous expression of MEB1 and MEB2 in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) suppresses iron and manganese toxicity, suggesting that MEB1 and MEB2 are metal transporters. These results indicate that the membrane of ER bodies has specific membrane proteins and suggest that the ER body is involved in defense against metal stress as well as pathogens and herbivores.
The effect of plant identity and the level of plant decay on molecular gut content analysis in a herbivorous soil insect
Authors: Wallinger Corinna , Staudacher Karin , Schallhart Nikolaus , Peter Eva , Dresch Philipp , Juen Anita , Traugott Michael
Published: November 2012

Plant roots represent an important food source for soil‐dwelling animals, but tracking herbivore food choices below‐ground is difficult. Here, we present an optimized PCR assay for the detection of plant DNA in the guts of invertebrates, using general plant primers targeting the trnT‐F chloroplast DNA region. Based on this assay, we assessed the influence of plant identity on the detectability of ingested plant DNA in Agriotes click beetle larvae. Six different plant species were fed to the insects, comprising a grass, a legume and four nonlegume forbs. Moreover, we examined whether it is possible to amplify DNA of decaying plants and if DNA of decayed plant food is detectable in the guts of the larvae. DNA of the ingested roots could be detected in the guts of the larvae for up to 72‐h post‐feeding, the maximum digestion time tested. When fed with living plants, DNA detection rates differed significantly between the plant species. This may be ascribed to differences in the amount of plant tissue consumed, root palatability, root morphology and/or secondary plant components. These findings indicate that plant identity can affect post‐feeding DNA detection success, which needs to be considered for the interpretation of molecularly derived feeding rates on plants. Amplification of plant DNA from decaying plants was possible as long as any tissue could be retrieved from the soil. The consumption of decaying plant tissue could also be verified by our assay, but the insects seemed to prefer fresh roots over decaying plant material.
Fine mapping of quantitative trait loci affecting organ weights by mouse intersubspecific subcongenic strain analysis
Authors: Mollah Md. Bazlur Rahman , Ishikawa Akira
Published: November 2012

The genetic architecture of organ weights is not well understood. In this study, we fine‐mapped quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting organ weights by characterizing six intersubspecific subcongenic mouse strains with overlapping and non‐overlapping genomic regions on chromosome 2 derived from wild Mus musculus castaneus. QTLs for heart, lung, spleen and kidney weights were revealed on a 6.38‐Mb genomic region between two microsatellite markers, D2Mit323 and D2Mit472. Effects of the castaneus alleles at the organ weight QTLs were all opposite in direction to a body weight QTL previously mapped to the same genomic region. In addition, new QTLs for lung and kidney weights were revealed on a different 3.57‐Mb region between D2Mit205 and D2Mit182. Their effects were dependent on that of another body weight QTL previously mapped to that genomic region. The organ weight QTLs revealed were all duplicated in independent analyses with F2 intercross populations between subcongenic strains carrying these QTLs and their background strain. The findings suggested that organ weights are not exclusively regulated by genetic loci that commonly influence overall body weight and rather that there are loci contributing to the growth of specific organs only.
Tectono‐sedimentary Evolution of Early Pennsylvanian Alluvial Systems at the Onset of the Alleghanian Orogeny, Pocahontas Basin, Virginia
Authors: Grimm R.P. , Eriksson K. , Carbaugh J.
Published: November 2012

Foreland basin strata provide an opportunity to review the depositional response of alluvial systems to unsteady tectonic load variations at convergent plate margins. The lower Breathitt Group of the Pocahontas Basin, a sub‐basin of the Central Appalachian Basin, in Virginia preserves an Early Pennsylvanian record of sedimentation during initial foreland basin subsidence of the Alleghanian orogeny. Utilizing fluvial facies distributions and long‐term stacking patterns within the context of an ancient, marginal‐marine foreland basin provides stratigraphic evidence to disentangle a recurring, low‐frequency residual tectonic signature from high‐frequency glacioeustatic events. Results from basin‐wide facies analysis, corroborated with petrography and detrital zircon geochronology, support a two end‐member depositional system of coexisting transverse and longitudinal alluvial systems infilling the foredeep during eustatic lowstands. Provenance data suggest that sediment was derived from low‐grade metamorphic Grenvillian‐Avalonian terranes and recycling of older Palaeozoic sedimentary rocks uplifted as part of the Alleghanian orogen and Archean‐Superior‐Province. Immature sediments, including lithic sandstone bodies, were deposited within a SE‐NW oriented transverse drainage system. Quartzarenites were deposited within a strike‐parallel NE‐SW oriented axial drainage, forming elongate belts along the western basin margin. These mature quartzarenites were deposited within a braided fluvial system that originated from a northerly cratonic source area. Integrating subsurface and sandstone provenance data indicates significant, repeated palaeogeographical shifts in alluvial facies distribution. Distinct wedges comprising composite sequences are bounded by successive shifts in alluvial facies and define three low‐frequency tectonic accommodation cycles. The proposed tectonic accommodation cycles provide an explanation for the recognized low‐frequency composite sequences, defining short‐term episodes of unsteady westward migration of the flexural Appalachian Basin and constrain the relative timing of deformation events during cratonward progression of the Alleghanian orogenic wedge.
Domestic violence and child protection: towards a collaborative approach across the two service sectors
Authors: Zannettino Lana , McLaren Helen
Published: November 2012

Domestic violence continues to be one of the most significant aspects of child abuse and neglect in Australia. However, the children are not well served by either child protection or domestic violence service sectors, which continue to operate as segregated, tertiary response systems. This paper reports on research that examined bridges and barriers to effective collaboration between child protection and domestic violence services in responding to children affected by domestic violence. The differing conceptions and responses of the workers from each service sector, in relation to children and families affected by domestic violence, is discussed in the light of gaps in service provision in both sectors. In doing so, areas of common ground for more effective collaboration between these service sectors are identified, including the prioritizing of emotional and psychological abuse, supporting and empowering abused mothers, strengthening the mother–child relationship, and supporting children and families across a continuum of service provision, particularly in the medium‐ to long‐term. Understanding each other and finding common ground across the two service sectors is paramount to improving how each responds to children and families affected by domestic violence.
Extract of Aneilema keisak inhibits transforming growth factor‐β‐dependent signalling by inducing Smad2 downregulation in keloid fibroblasts
Authors: Kim Won‐Serk , Lee Ji‐Seon , Bae Gab‐Yong , Kim Jin‐Ju , Chin Young‐Won , Bahk Young Yil , Min Hyung Geun , Cha Hyuk‐Jin
Published: November 2012

Keloids are characterised by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM), especially overabundant collagen formation. In keloid fibroblasts (KFs), transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β‐dependent signalling is closely associated with a variety of keloid pathologic responses such as ECM production and fibroblast overgrowth. Thus, inhibition of TGF‐β signalling would be a potential therapeutic approach to prevent keloid scar formation. Thereby, we aimed to identify a novel TGF‐β signalling blocker among natural products using a simplified screening approach. We discovered that the extract of Aneilema keisak (A.K‐Ex) lowered TGF‐β‐dependent signalling by reducing Smad2 protein levels. Given that KFs showed altered dependency on TGF‐β for survival and proliferation, A.K‐Ex‐mediated reduction in Smad2 protein levels significantly inhibited the major characteristics of KFs such as cell growth, migration and collagen synthesis, suggesting that A.K‐Ex exhibits possible therapeutic activity on keloids.
N–linked glycosylation modulates dimerization of protein disulfide isomerase family A member 2 (PDIA2)
Authors: Walker Adam K. , Soo Kai Ying , Levina Vita , Talbo Gert H. , Atkin Julie D.
Published: November 2012

Protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) family members are important enzymes for the correct folding and maturation of proteins that transit or reside in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The human PDI family comprises at least 19 members that differ in cell type expression, substrate specificity and post‐translational modifications. PDI family A member 2 (PDIA2, previously known as PDIp) has a similar domain structure to prototypical PDI (also known as PDIA1), but the function and post‐translational modifications of PDIA2 remain poorly understood. Unlike most PDI family members, PDIA2 contains three predicted N‐linked glycosylation sites. By site‐directed mutagenesis and enzymatic deglycosylation, we show here that all three Asn residues within the potential N‐linked glycosylation sites of human PDIA2 (N127, N284 and N516) are glycosylated in human cells. Furthermore, mutation of N284 to glycosylation‐null Gln increases formation of a highly stable disulfide‐bonded PDIA2 dimer. Nevertheless, in HeLa cells, both wild‐type and N127/284/516Q mutant PDIA2 proteins localize to the ER, but not the ER–Golgi intermediate compartment, suggesting that glycosylation is important for PDIA2 protein–protein interactions but not subcellular localization. Finally, we identified human major histocompatibility complex class 1 antigens (HLA‐A,B,C) as potential binding partners of PDIA2, suggesting an involvement for PDIA2 in antigen presentation in addition to its previously described roles in autoimmunity and Parkinson's disease. These results further characterize this poorly defined member of the PDI family.

Structured digital abstract

• Calreticulin and PDIA2 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)

• PDIA2 and PDIA1 colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)
Paradigms and Paradox: The Politics of Economic Ideas in Two Moments of Crisis
Authors: Blyth Mark
Published: November 2012

This article argues that there is a paradox at the heart of Hall's “Policy Paradigms” framework stemming from the desire to see both state and society as generative of social learning while employing two different logics to explain how such learning takes place: what I term the “Bayesian” and “constructivist” versions of the policy paradigms causal story. This creates a paradox as both logics cannot be simultaneously true. However, it is a generative paradox insofar as the power of the policy paradigms framework emerges, in part, from this attempt to straddle these distinct positions, producing an argument that is greater than the sum of its parts. In the second part of the article, I discuss the recent global financial crisis, an area where we should see third‐order change, but we do no not. That we do not strengthens the case for the constructivist causal story.
Comparison between pulsed ultrasound and low level laser therapy on experimental haemarthrosis
Authors: Ravanbod R. , Torkaman G. , Esteki A.
Published: November 2012

The use of pulsed ultrasound (PUS) and low level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with haemophilia has been recommended for supportive treatment of acute and chronic phases of haemarthrosis but its role has not been supported by experimental evidence. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effect of these modalities on joint swelling, friction and biomechanical parameters of articular cartilage. An experimental rabbit knee haemarthrosis model was used to test the hypothesis that LLLT and PUS favourably impacted on the biotribological and biomechanical properties of cartilage after joint bleeding. To test this, 35 male albino rabbits weighing 1.5–2 kg were used. The left knee of 30 rabbits was injected with 1 mL of fresh autologous blood two times per week for four consecutive weeks to simulate recurrent haemarthrosis; five rabbits served as non‐bleeding controls. Ten rabbits were treated with PUS and 10 with LLLT and the remaining 10 were not treated. The treatments were started after 2 days and the treatment duration was planned for 5 days (sessions) in ultrasound and laser groups. A low level Ga‐Al‐As laser was applied with an 810 nm wavelength, 25 mW power, and 1 J cm−2 dosage for 200 s duration. The PUS treatment was applied with a duty cycle of 1/9, frequency of 1 MHz, and power of 0.4 W cm−2 for 150 s. Joint perimeter was measured before the procedure at the beginning of therapies and after cessation of the procedure. Friction and biomechanical parameters were measured immediately after the killing of the animals. The results demonstrate that PUS was more effective in reducing knee joint swelling than LLLT. Moreover, PUS had the unique ability of reducing the joint friction below normal values. However, it was not successful in returning the articular cartilage force and stiffness to normal state. LLLT was more effective in increasing equilibrium force of the articular cartilage than PUS, however, neither therapy normalized this parameter. From these data, we conclude that PUS is more effective than LLLT in reducing joint swelling and articular joint friction after experimental haemarthrosis.
Individual Determinants of Behavioral Intentions: What tells us that practitioners really want to change hiring strategies?
Authors: Langhammer Kristina , Bernhard‐Oettel Claudia , Hellgren Johnny
Published: November 2012

The current study investigated hiring managers' intentional readiness to change hiring procedures as a function of individual determinants, such as their self‐efficacy beliefs, causal attributions, and past behaviors. Hiring managers from three large organizations were recruited to participate and provide information about their current hiring processes and personal experiences. Results showed that self‐efficacy beliefs had a strong negative relationship with intentional readiness to change. Managers' past behavior, in terms of use of unstructured interviews and external attributions of failure, were negatively associated with intentional readiness to change, while use of unstructured interviews and external attribution of success were positively associated with intentional readiness to change. Furthermore, the interactive effect of causal attribution and use of selection methods played a significant role in explaining intentional readiness for change. The results indicated that recruiting managers who preferred using unstructured interviews and attributed failures to external causes were less willing to change hiring practices than those who made less use of unstructured interviews and explained their failure externally. Implications and limitations are discussed.
Surviving social support: Care challenges facing Taiwanese centenarians
Authors: Yang Pei‐Shan
Published: November 2012

In Taiwan, centenarians are the fastest growing demographic among the 65+ population. However, the general population knows little about the country's oldest citizens. There is an urgent need for research to focus on the ‘super old’ community in order to allocate sufficient public and private resources towards their care. This study explored the living conditions of Taiwanese centenarians as well as their care and support systems through a quantitative questionnaire and in‐depth interviews with the centenarians or their caregivers. The total sample size of the study was 100. Sample characteristics regarding age, gender, living arrangement, physical and mental health status, daily functioning and overall life satisfaction are presented. It was found that a much higher percentage of Taiwanese centenarians lived with family members in their own homes, while their counterparts in Western societies were institutionalised. This study also identifies the concept of symbiotic care grounded in a family network.
Interleukin‐2/anti‐interleukin‐2 monoclonal antibody immune complex suppresses collagen‐induced arthritis in mice by fortifying interleukin‐2/STAT5 signalling pathways
Authors: Lee Seon‐Yeong , Cho Mi‐La , Oh Hye‐Jwa , Ryu Jun‐Geol , Park Min‐Jung , Jhun Joo‐Yeon , Park Mi‐Kyung , Stone John C. , Ju Ji‐Hyun , Hwang Sue‐Yun , Park Sung‐Hwan , Surh Charles D. , Kim Ho‐Youn
Published: November 2012

In this study, we investigated the effects of administration of interleukin‐2 (IL‐2)/JES6‐1 (anti‐IL‐2 monoclonal antibody) immune complexes on the expansion and activation of regulatory T (Treg) cells, the down‐regulation of T helper type 17 (Th17) cells, and the control of the severity of collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA). Wild‐type and CIA‐induced wild‐type mice were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with IL‐2 or IL‐2/JES6‐1 complex three times at 2‐day intervals. Treg cell surface markers were analysed by flow cytometry. After injecting IL‐2 or IL‐2/JES6‐1, the time kinetics of IL‐2 signalling molecules was examined by FACS and Western blotting. Concentrations of IL‐17 and IL‐10 were measured by ELISA. Injection of IL‐2/JES6‐1 increased the proportion of Foxp3+ Treg cells among splenic CD4+ T cells, which reached the highest level on day 4 after injection. Up‐regulation of CTLA4, GITR and glycoprotein‐A repetitions predominant (GARP) was observed. Activation of p‐signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5) was apparent within 3 hr after injection of IL‐2/JES6‐1 complexes. Expression of IL‐2 signalling molecules, including p‐AKT and p‐p38/mitogen‐activated protein kinase, was also higher in splenocytes treated with IL‐2/JES6‐1 complexes. Injection of IL‐2/JES6‐1 complexes suppressed the induction of CIA and the production of IL‐17 and inflammatory responses while increasing the level of IL‐10 in the spleen. The expansion of Treg cells (via STAT5) and the concomitant increase in IL‐2 signalling pathways by IL‐2/JES6‐1 complexes suggests their potential use as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of autoimmune arthritis.
Oxidative status and histological changes in sea bass larvae muscle in response to high dietary content of docosahexaenoic acid DHA
Authors: Betancor M B , Caballero M J , Benítez‐Santana T , Saleh R , Roo J , Atalah E , Izquierdo M
Published: November 2012

In previous studies, we observed dystrophic alterations in muscle of 48‐day‐old sea bass fed imbalanced docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and vitamin E diets. To understand the whole pathological process associated with oxidative stress, a histological study was performed by feeding 14‐day‐old sea bass larvae with microdiets containing different ratios of DHA/vitamin E (1/150, 5/150 and 5/300) for a period of 21 days. Larvae fed diet 1/150 showed no lesions in contrast to larvae fed diets 5/150 and 5/300 where the highest incidence of muscle lesions and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content was observed. Semithin sections revealed focal lesions consisting of degenerated fibres with hypercontracted myofilaments and extensive sarcoplasm vacuolization affecting both red and white muscle. Ultrathin sections of degenerating muscle fibres showed diffuse dilatation of sarcoplasmic reticulum, disorganized myofilaments and autophagic vacuoles containing myelin figures and dense bodies. Additionally, some macrophages were observed among injured fibres as numerous satellite cells. Results from the study agree with those obtained from previous work, proving the pathological potential of free radicals in sea bass larvae musculature. Moreover, high vitamin E inclusion could not completely protect cell membranes from free radicals action.
Antiviral activity of casein and αs2 casein hydrolysates against the infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus, a rhabdovirus from salmonid fish
Authors: Rodríguez Saint‐Jean S , De las Heras A , Carrillo W , Recio I , Ortiz‐Delgado J B , Ramos M , Gomez‐Ruiz J A , Sarasquete C , Pérez‐Prieto S I
Published: November 2012

Salmonid fish viruses, such as infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV), are responsible for serious losses in the rainbow trout and salmon‐farming industries, and they have been the subject of intense research in the field of aquaculture. Thus, the aim of this work is to study the antiviral effect of milk‐derived proteins as bovine caseins or casein‐derived peptides at different stages during the course of IHNV infection. The results indicate that the 3‐h fraction of casein and αS2‐casein hydrolysates reduced the yield of infectious IHNV in a dose‐dependent manner and impaired the production of IHNV‐specific antigens. Hydrolysates of total casein and αS2‐casein target the initial and later stages of viral infection, as demonstrated by the reduction in the infective titre observed throughout multiple stages and cycles. In vivo, more than 50% protection was observed in the casein‐treated fish, and the kidney sections exhibited none of the histopathological characteristics of IHNV infection. The active fractions from casein were identified, as well as one of the individual IHNV‐inhibiting peptides. Further studies will be required to determine which other peptides possess this activity. These findings provide a basis for future investigations on the efficacy of these compounds in treating other viral diseases in farmed fish and to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms of action. However, the present results provide convincing evidence in support of a role for several milk casein fractions as suitable candidates to prevent and treat some fish viral infections.
Economic benefits of subcutaneous rapid push versus intravenous immunoglobulin infusion therapy in adult patients with primary immune deficiency
Authors: Martin A. , Lavoie L. , Goetghebeur M. , Schellenberg R.
Published: November 2012

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the economic benefits of immunoglobulin replacement therapy achieved subcutaneously (subcutaneous immunoglobulin, SCIG) by the rapid push method compared to intravenous infusion therapy (intravenous immunoglobulin, IVIG) in primary immune deficiency (PID) patients from the healthcare system perspective in the context of the adult SCIG home infusion program based at St Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada.

Materials and methods

SCIG and IVIG options were compared in cost‐minimisation and budget impact models (BIMs) over 3 years. Sensitivity analyses were performed for both models to evaluate the impact of varying modality of IVIG treatments and proportion of patients switching from IVIG to SCIG.

Results

The cost‐minimisation model estimated that SCIG treatment reduced cost to the healthcare system per patient of $5736 over 3 years, principally because of less use of hospital personnel. This figure varied between $5035 and $8739 depending on modality of IVIG therapy. Assuming 50% of patients receiving IVIG switched to SCIG, the BIM estimated cost savings for the first 3 years at $1·308 million or 37% of the personnel and supply budget. These figures varied between $1·148 million and $2·454 million (36 and 42%) with varying modalities of IVIG therapy. If 75% of patients switched to SCIG, the reduced costs reached $1·962 million or 56% of total budget.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that from the health system perspective, rapid push home‐based SCIG was less costly than hospital‐based IVIG for immunoglobulin replacement therapy in adult PID patients in the Canadian context.
Development of a nomogram for predicting the stone‐free rate after transurethral ureterolithotripsy using semi‐rigid ureteroscope
Authors: Imamura Yusuke , Kawamura Koji , Sazuka Tomokazu , Sakamoto Shinichi , Imamoto Takashi , Nihei Naoki , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Okano Tatsuya , Nozumi Kuniyoshi , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To develop and to internally validate a novel nomogram for predicting the stone‐free rate after transurethral ureterolithotripsy.

Methods

A total of 412 patients with 534 ureteral stones were treated with transurethral ureterolithotripsy using semi‐rigid ureteroscopes. Treatment efficacy was evaluated 3 months after the procedure. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of being stone‐free in the model‐building set. A total of 427 stones (80% of 534) were randomly allocated for identification and statistical analysis to build the model, and the remaining 107 (20%) were used for cross‐validation. A nomogram for the stone‐free rate was developed based on the final logistic regression model.

Results

Stone length, number of stones, stone location and the presence of pyuria were independent factors related to the stone‐free rate after transurethral ureterolithotripsy treatment, and these were used to develop a nomogram. In this nomogram, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.7432 for the nomogram, 0.5641 for stone size, 0.5908 for the number of stones, 0.6594 for stone location and 0.6076 for pyuria. Validation using 20% of the data also achieved a reasonable predictive accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.682).

Conclusions

The first nomogram for predicting the stone‐free rate after transurethral ureterolithotripsy was developed. It has a reasonable predictive accuracy, and in combination with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy nomograms, it might be useful for deciding treatment methods.
The World Health Organization–United Nations Population Fund Strategic Partnership Programme's implementation of family planning guidelines and tools in Asia–Pacific countries
Authors: Mody Sheila K. , Ba‐Thike Katherine , Gaffield Mary E.
Published: November 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the Strategic Partnership Programme, a collaboration between the World Health Organization and the United Nations Population Fund to improve evidence‐based guidance for country programs through the introduction of selected practice guidelines to improve sexual and reproductive health.

Methods

Information for this report is from questionnaires sent to Ministries of Health in 2004 (baseline assessment) and in 2007 (assessment of outcome), annual country reports and personal communication with focal points from Ministries of Health and World Health Organization regional and country offices.

Results

Following the Strategic Partnership Programme, family planning guidance was used extensively to: formulate and update reproductive health policy; update standards and guidelines; improve training curricula; conduct training activities; develop advocacy and communication materials; and promote change in service.

Conclusion

The Strategic Partnership Programme was successful in promoting the introduction of evidence‐based guidelines for reproductive health in several Asian countries. The countries that adapted the family planning guidance observed an increase in demand for contraceptives commodities.
Michael Moore on Torture, Morality, and Law
Authors: Kramer Matthew H.
Published: November 2012

During the past few decades, Michael Moore has written incisively on an array of matters concerning the relationships between law and morality. While reflecting on those relationships, he has plumbed the nature of morality itself in impressive depth. Among the topics which he has addressed, the problem of torture has been prominent and controversial. It is a problem, moreover, that has led to some of his most searching enquiries into the character of moral obligations. In the present essay I take issue not only with many of Moore's conclusions about torture, but also with some of his more far‐reaching claims about the domain of morality.
The Regulation of the Technical, Environmental and Health Aspects of Current Exploratory Shale Gas Extraction in the United Kingdom: Initial Lessons for the Future of European Union Energy Policy
Authors: Kotsakis Andreas
Published: November 2012

The shale gas revolution has reached the United Kingdom. Licenses for exploratory shale gas extraction have already been issued and a recent independent review commissioned by the British government concluded that shale gas extraction can proceed. However, the regulation of these activities is based on the broader regulatory framework for oil and gas, which does not fully account for the particular technical challenges and environmental and health impacts of unconventional gas extraction, resulting in gaps in authorization and monitoring procedures. This article analyzes the relevant European Union and domestic provisions regarding the licensing and permitting system, hydraulic fracturing and water management, as well as the mitigation of the risk of induced seismicity.
MOTIVES STILL DON'T MATTER: REPLY TO PYNES
Authors: Ruiz Andrés , Koperski Jeffrey
Published: November 2012

Abstract This paper continues a dialogue that began with an article by Jeffrey Koperski entitled “Two Bad Ways to Attack Intelligent Design and Two Good Ones,” published in the June 2008 issue of Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science. In a response article, Christopher Pynes argues that ad hominem arguments are sometimes legitimate, especially when critiquing Intelligent Design (2012). We show that Pynes's examples only apply to matters of testimony, not the kinds of arguments found in the best defenses of ID.
ESCHATOLOGY AND ENTROPY: AN ALTERNATIVE TO ROBERT JOHN RUSSELL'S PROPOSAL
Authors: Nürnberger Klaus
Published: November 2012

Abstract Traditional eschatology clashes with the theory of entropy. Trying to bridge the gap, Robert John Russell assumes that theology and science are based on contradictory, yet equally valid, metaphysical assumptions, each one capable of questioning and impacting the other. The author doubts that Russell's proposal will convince empirically oriented scientists and attempts to provide a viable alternative. Historical‐critical analysis suggests that biblical future expectations were redemptive responses to changing human needs. Apocalyptic visions were occasioned by heavy suffering in postexilic times. Interpreted in realistic terms, they have since proved to be untenable. The expectation (rather than the vision) of a new creation without evil, suffering, and death is not constitutive for the substantive content of the biblical message as such. Biblical future expectations must be reconceptualized in terms of best contemporary insight and in line with a dynamic reading of the biblical witness as God's vision of comprehensive optimal well‐being that operates like a shifting horizon and opens up ever new vistas, challenges, and opportunities.
HUMAN ORIGINS AND THE BIBLE
Authors: Walton John H.
Published: November 2012

Abstract The ongoing debate surrounding human origins and the Bible is based on interpretations of various sections of the Bible, particularly Genesis 1–3, which are believed by some to contradict some of the tenets of the modern scientific consensus (e.g., common descent of diversification of species through change over time from a common ancestor, polygenism). This paper suggests that an interpretation of Genesis 2–3 in light of a close reading of the Hebrew text and the recognition of its ancient Near Eastern context demonstrates that the scientific consensus need not be in conflict with sound biblical interpretation.