bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting Policy in a Mediated Democracy: Congress and the News
Authors: DeGregorio Christine
Published: April 2011

Whose interests do major news dailies serve when they report on policy debates in Congress? This study compares what members of the U.S. House of Representatives say about major policy with what is later reported in two news dailies: one liberal (Washington Post) and one conservative (Washington Times). The data include one-minute floor speeches by House members (168) and published storiesnews and editorialsin the print media (117). Three high-profile policy initiatives of the 107th Congress (2001-2002) anchor the investigation: No Child Left Behind Act (HR 1), Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act (HR 1836), and Airport Security Act (S. 1447). The evidence shows a discrepancy in the perspectives between reporters and officeholders. Where news coverage stresses talk of the president and the process, lawmakers stress the problem and the stakes for the American people. When the debate breaks along party lines, news coverage shows a weak ideological bias that favors Democrats.
Review of A Journey: My Political Life by Tony Blair
Authors: King Anthony
Published: April 2011

American readers need to know that British politicians are inveterate memoir-writers. On leaving office, prime ministers write their memoirs, but so do chancellors of the exchequer, foreign secretaries, and politicians far less significant than that. British publishers clearly reckon that, even if the sales of most such volumes are unlikely to be enormous, the village-like quality of British political life means that a fair number of copies will be bought and read by the authors fellow politicians, civil servants, and other citizens whom the politician in question will have encountered in the course of a long working life.
The Demand for Seafood Eco-Labels in France
Authors: Salladarré Frédéric , Guillotreau Patrice , Perraudeau Yves , Monfort Marie-Christine
Published: April 2011

The French fishing industry has a long history and its seafood market a wide variety of products. Despite the worldwide growth in ecolabelling schemes over the past decade, the French industry has only very recently shown an interest in such schemes. Growing consumer and retailer awareness of environmental issues in France has changed the situation and it is now of interest to look at the demand for seafood ecolabelling in relation to the public perception of commercial fishing.We analyse, using an ordered Probit model, the factors influencing consumer demand for seafood ecolabelling on the basis of a French survey carried out on more than 1000 consumers. Our results show a significant relationship between the acceptability of ecolabelling and certain purchase criteria. The production process characteristics in (origin, wild vs. farmed, level of natural stocks) impact more strongly on the demand for ecolabelling than product attributes (form, visual appeal, freshness). Consumers are also influenced more by regulation than by information, inaccurate or otherwise, they may have about the fishing industry. Finally, our analysis confirms a higher demand for ecolabelling from young, educated consumers, particularly those living in non-coastal areas.
Potential Enhancements to Data on Health Insurance, Health Services, and Medicare in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: Ayanian John Z , Meara Ellen , McWilliams J. Michael
Published: April 2011

As a nationally representative cohort of middle-aged and elderly adults with longitudinal data spanning nearly two decades, the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) is an important resource for researchers studying the dynamics of health insurance coverage in the United States and the relation of insurance coverage to the use of health services and to health outcomes. We assessed the strengths and limitations of currently available HRS data for such research, focusing on survey items in these domains and Medicare claims data that have been linked to HRS survey data. The process for researchers to obtain Medicare claims has greatly improved in recent years. The additions of biomarkers (e.g. blood pressure and serum cholesterol) and objective measures of physical functioning for HRS participants have also been notable improvements. We propose changes to the HRS to enhance its value for health services research, particularly regarding the effects of health care reform as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 is implemented over the next decade.
The State and Future of Blood-Based Biomarkers in the Health and Retirement Study
Authors: McDade Thomas
Published: April 2011

The Health and Retirement Study (HRS) is an important national resource for policy makers and investigators across a wide range of disciplines, and it is critical that the study collects the best information possible on the health status of its participants within the constraints of the survey design, and without compromising the integrity of the sample. Potential directions for the collection and analysis of biomarker data in future waves of HRS are discussed, with a primary focus on blood-based biomarkers. Advantages and disadvantages of various methods for collecting blood in the home are considered, with particular attention given to the strengths and weaknesses of dried blood spot (DBS) sampling. DBS sampling has been widely applied in recent biosocial surveys due to the low cost and burden associated with sample collection, but these benefits need to be weighed against challenges associated with quantification in the laboratory. Attention is also given to additional biomarkers that may be of relevance to HRS, and that would expand the survey’s current focus on obesity and metabolic syndrome. Measures of inflammation, pathogen exposure, reproductive function, stress, and epigenetic modifications are suggested as potentially productive future directions for the study. In addition, the analysis concludes with the following recommendations for HRS: Continue to collect DBS samples, but consider alternatives; implement enhanced procedures for quality control; calibrate DBS results against plasma values, and invest in methods development.
A Rationale for Including a Brief Assessment of Hedonic Well-being in Large-scale Surveys
Authors: Stone Arthur A
Published: April 2011

Subjective well-being is comprised of both evaluative (life satisfaction) and hedonic (affect) components, and there has been a call to include both aspects of well-being in large-scale surveys. This paper presents a rationale for the feasibility of including a brief measure hedonic well-being based on the measurement of yesterday’s affect and experience. It discusses issues of the distinctiveness of hedonic well-being from life satisfaction, the sensitivity of a single day’s affect, the sample sizes required for detecting group differences, and the experiential content that could also be collected to extend the value of affective reports. I conclude that a brief assessment is feasible and, in conjunction with measures of evaluative well-being, could add to our understanding of well-being in populations.
Time Use and Well-being, and Large Survey Studies
Authors: Smith Dylan M
Published: April 2011

This paper reviews several methods for measuring how people spend their time, and how they feel during these different activities, and argues that some of these methods could be well suited for large scale longitudinal surveys. Because time use methods allow for the quantitative assessment of the dynamics of human experience, they provide opportunities to explore numerous research questions that cannot be readily answered with more traditional summary measures of well-being. In the last decade or two, techniques have become available that can capture the dynamics of time use and well-being in ways that also reduce methodological problems such as biased recall. The paper describes several such methods, with a discussion of how they are implemented, and a comparison of their relative strengths and weaknesses. In the final section, the paper describes how the addition of time use measures can enhance national surveys such as the Health and Retirement Study by a) opening new avenues of research, and b) clarifying previous findings from more traditional measures of well being.
Personality Measurement and Assessment in Large Panel Surveys
Authors: Roberts Brent , Jackson Joshua J , Duckworth Angela L , Von Culin Katherine
Published: April 2011

Personality tests are being added to large panel studies with increasing regularity, such as the Health and Retirement Study (HRS). To facilitate the inclusion and interpretation of these tests, we provide some general background on personality psychology, personality assessment, and the validity of personality tests. In this review, we provide background on definitions of personality, the strengths and weaknesses of the self-report approaches to personality testing typically used in large panel studies, and the validity of personality tests for three outcomes: genetics, income, and health. We conclude with recommendations on how to improve personality assessment in future panel studies.
Which Questions in the Health and Retirement Study are Used by Researchers? Evidence from Academic Journals, 2006-2009
Authors: Jackson Tina , Balduf Mabel , Yasaitis Laura , Skinner Jonathan
Published: April 2011

Since 2002, the average number of questions asked per respondent in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) has risen by 39 percent, from 413 to 581. Yet there is little or no understanding of which questions, or how many in total, should be included–and more importantly, maintained–in longitudinal surveys. In this paper, we propose a simple approach to assessing the value of survey questions: journal citation counts. A sample of journal articles and book chapters published in 2006-09 (N = 206) is used to document which questions, and categories of questions, were used most and least frequently. A disproportionate number of published articles used a relatively small number of questions regarding health, wealth, income, and employment. By contrast, several categories of questions were rarely used, and many specific questions were never used. This evidence-based approach to measuring the value of survey questions can have applications for other surveys beyond the HRS.
Pharmacologic modulation of experimentally induced allergic asthma
Authors: Fraňová Soňa , Strapková Anna , Mokrý Juraj , Šutovská Martina , Jošková Marta , Sadloňová Vladimíra , Antošová Martina , Pavelčíková Darina , Flešková Dana , Nosáľová Gabriela
Published: April 2011

Pharmacologic modulation of experimentally induced allergic asthma

Allergic asthma is the most frequent disease of the respiratory tract. The aim of the current experimental and clinical studies was to find new sources of drugs able to control asthmatic inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Our experimental studies were focused on efficiency evaluation of substances able to influence activities of ion channels, phosphodiesterase (PDE) isoforms, substances from the group of polyphenols and NO metabolism modulators during experimentally induced allergic asthma.
Synthesis method of high speed finite state machines
Authors: Czerwiński R. , Kania D.
Published: April 2011

Synthesis method of high speed finite state machines

The paper is concerned with the problem of state assignment and logic optimization of high speed finite state machines. The method is designed for PAL-based CPLDs implementations. Determining the number of logic levels of the transition function before the state encoding process, and keeping the constraints during the process is the main problem at hand. A number of coding bits, as well as codes for the states, are adjusted to achieve a machine with a determined number of logic levels. Elements of two-level minimization are taken into consideration in the state assignment. The proposed optimization method is based on utilizing tri-state buffers, thus enabling achievement of a one-logic-level output block.
Loss tandem networks with blocking - a semi-Markov approach
Authors: Oniszczuk W.
Published: April 2011

Loss tandem networks with blocking - a semi-Markov approach

Based on the semi-Markov process theory, this paper describes an analytical study of a loss multiple-server two-station network model with blocking. Tasks arrive to the tandem in a Poisson fashion at a rate λ, and the service times at the first and second stations are non-exponentially distributed with means sAand sB, respectively. Between these two stations there is a buffer with finite capacity. In this type of network, if the buffer is full, the accumulation of new tasks (jobs) by the second station is temporarily suspended (blocking factor) and tasks must wait on the first station until the transmission process is resumed. Any new task that finds all service lines at the first station occupied is turned away and is lost (loss factor). Initially, in this document, a Markov model of the loss tandem with blocking is investigated. Here, a two-dimensional state graph is constructed and a set of steady-state equations is created. These equations allow the calculation of state probabilities for each graph state. A special algorithm for transforming the Markov model into a semi-Markov process is presented. This approach allows calculating steady-state probabilities in the semi-Markov model. In the next part of the paper, the algorithms for calculation of the main measures of effectiveness in the semi-Markov model are presented. Finally, the numerical part of this paper contains an investigation of some special semi-Markov models, where the results are presented of the calculation of the quality of service (QoS) parameters and the main measures of effectiveness.
The Impact of Induction and Mentoring Programs for Beginning Teachers
Authors: Ingersoll Richard M. , Strong Michael
Published: April 2011

This review critically examines 15 empirical studies, conducted since the mid-1980s, on the effects of support, guidance, and orientation programs—collectively known as induction—for beginning teachers. Most of the studies reviewed provide empirical support for the claim that support and assistance for beginning teachers have a positive impact on three sets of outcomes: teacher commitment and retention, teacher classroom instructional practices, and student achievement. Of the studies on commitment and retention, most showed that beginning teachers who participated in induction showed positive impacts. For classroom instructional practices, the majority of studies reviewed showed that beginning teachers who participated in some kind of induction performed better at various aspects of teaching, such as keeping students on task, using effective student questioning practices, adjusting classroom activities to meet students’ interests, maintaining a positive classroom atmosphere, and demonstrating successful classroom management. For student achievement, almost all of the studies showed that students of beginning teachers who participated in induction had higher scores, or gains, on academic achievement tests. There were, however, exceptions to this overall pattern—in particular a large randomized controlled trial of induction in a sample of large, urban, low-income schools—which found some significant positive effects on student achievement but no effects on either teacher retention or teachers’ classroom practices. The review closes by attempting to reconcile these contradictory findings and by identifying gaps in the research base and relevant questions that have not been addressed and warrant further research.
Derrida and the Future(s) of Phenomenology
Authors: Roo Neal de
Published: April 2011

This paper seeks to examine the significance of Derrida's work for an understanding of the basic tenets of phenomenology. Specifically, via an analysis of his understanding of the subject's relation to the future, we will see that Derrida enhances the phenomenological understanding of temporality and intentionality, thereby moving the project of phenomenology forward in a unique way. This, in turn, suggests that future phenomenological research will have to account for an essential (rather than merely a secondary) role for both linguistic mediation and cultural and political factors within the phenomenological subject itself.
Materialised Ideals: Sizes and Beauty
Authors: Laitala Kirsi , Grimstad Klepp Ingun , Hauge Benedicte
Published: April 2011

Today’s clothing industry is based on a system where clothes are made in ready-to-wear sizes and meant to fit most people. Studies have pointed out that consumers are discontent with the use of these systems: size designations are not accurate enough to find clothing that fits, and different sizes are poorly available. This article discusses in depth who these consumers are, and which consumer groups are the most dissatisfied with today’s sizing systems. Results are based on a web survey where 2834 Nordic consumers responded, complemented with eight in-depth interviews, market analysis on clothing sizes and instore trouser size measurements. Results indicate that higher shares of the consumers who have a body out of touch with the existing beauty ideals express discontentment with the sizing systems and the poor selection available. In particular, large women, very large men, and thin, short men are those who experience less priority in clothing stores and have more difficulties in finding clothes that fit. Consumers tend to blame themselves when the clothes do not fit their bodies, while our study points out that the industry is to blame as they do not produce clothing for all customers.
Retail and Fashion – A Happy Marriage?: The Making of a Fashion Industry Research Design
Authors: Fredriksson Cecilia
Published: April 2011

Fashion and retail ought to be a happy marriage. Yet several entrepreneurs in the field of fashion speak of a climate that is difficult to penetrate because of economic and cultural factors. For example, the chain store concept is an expression of the specific and current fashion situation in Sweden: democratic fashion that is cheap and accessible. At the same time, customers now demand personal, unique and ethical fashions. However, there are few possibilities in this climate for low cost development in progressive Swedish design. This article addresses the questions of how special trade conditions are reflected in the relationship between fashion and retail, and how different interests and values are expressed in the culture of Swedish fashion. To gain a deeper understanding of diverse working conditions and strategies, this article analyzes the culture of the Swedish fashion business as a narrative of different social and cultural processes. A conclusion drawn is that a cultural perspective on the oppositions between different practices and logics in the fashion business may contribute to mapping and managing these oppositions.
Culture Unbound Vol. 3 Editorial
Authors: Fornäs Johan , Fredriksson Martin , Johannisson Jenny
Published: April 2011

No abstract available.
Wnt/β-catenin Signaling in Normal and Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Valkenburg Kenneth C. , Graveel Carrie R. , Zylstra-Diegel Cassandra R. , Zhong Zhendong , Williams Bart O.
Published: April 2011

The ability of Wnt ligands to initiate a signaling cascade that results in cytoplasmic stabilization of, and nuclear localization of, β-catenin underlies their ability to regulate progenitor cell differentiation. In this review, we will summarize the current knowledge of the mechanisms underlying Wnt/β-catenin signaling and how the pathway regulates normal differentiation of stem cells in the intestine, mammary gland, and prostate. We will also discuss how dysregulation of the pathway is associated with putative cancer stem cells and the potential therapeutic implications of regulating Wnt signaling.
A Comment on Nadytko et al., “Amines in the Earth’s Atmosphere: A Density Functional Theory Study of the Thermochemistry of Pre-Nucleation Clusters”. Entropy 2011, 13, 554–569
Authors: Kurtén Theo
Published: April 2011

Nadykto, Yu, Jakovleva, Herb and Xu have recently reported a DFT study on the structure and formation thermodynamics of sulfuric acid-base-water clusters, with ammonia and a handful of amines as bases [1]. This study partially overlaps with our previous work [2], and a significant part of the discussion in their manuscript concerns differences between their results and ours. This comment is intended to address some issues related to that discussion. Specifically, it is shown that the errors related to basis-set effects in our calculations are very likely much smaller than claimed by Nadykto et al. [1]. Composite calculations including e.g., higher-level electron correlation also agree better with our results.
Model for Predicting DC Flashover Voltage of Pre-Contaminated and Ice-Covered Long Insulator Strings under Low Air Pressure
Authors: Hu Jianlin , Sun Caixin , Jiang Xingliang , Yang Qing , Zhang Zhijin , Shu Lichun
Published: April 2011

In the current study, a multi-arc predicting model for DC critical flashover voltage of iced and pre-contaminated long insulator strings under low atmospheric pressure is developed. The model is composed of a series of different polarity surface arcs, icicle-icicle air gap arcs, and residual layer resistance. The calculation method of the residual resistance of the ice layer under DC multi-arc condition is established. To validate the model, 7-unit and 15-unit insulator strings were tested in a multi-function artificial climate chamber under the coexistent conditions of low air pressure, pollution, and icing. The test results showed that the values calculated by the model satisfactorily agreed with those experimentally measured, with the errors within the range of 10%, validating the rationality of the model.
Survey Mode Effects on Valuation of Environmental Goods
Authors: Bell Jason , Huber Joel , Viscusi W. Kip
Published: April 2011

This article evaluates the effect of the choice of survey recruitment mode on the value of water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams. Four different modes are compared: bringing respondents to one central location after phone recruitment, mall intercepts in two states, national phone-mail survey, and an Internet survey with a national, probability-based panel. The modes differ in terms of the representativeness of the samples, non-response rates, sample selection effects, and consistency of responses. The article also shows that the estimated value of water quality can differ substantially depending on the survey mode. The national Internet panel has the most desirable properties with respect to performance on the four important survey dimensions of interest.
From Polymer to Small Organic Molecules: A Tight Relationship between Radical Chemistry and Solid-Phase Organic Synthesis
Authors: Mirizzi Danilo , Pulici Maurizio
Published: April 2011

Since Gomberg’s discovery of radicals as chemical entities, the interest around them has increased through the years. Nowadays, radical chemistry is used in the synthesis of 75% of all polymers, inevitably establishing a close relationship with Solid-Phase Organic Synthesis. More recently, the interest of organic chemists has shifted towards the application of usual “in-solution” radical chemistry to the solid-phase, ranging from the use of supported reagents for radical reactions, to the development of methodologies for the synthesis of small molecules or potential libraries. The aim of this review is to put in perspective radical chemistry, moving it away from its origin as a synthetic means for solid supports, to becoming a useful tool for the synthesis of small molecules.
Three New Oblongolides from Phomopsis sp. XZ-01, an Endophytic Fungus from Camptotheca acuminate
Authors: Lin Ting , Wang Guang Hui , Lin Xiang , Hu Zhi Yu , Chen Quan Cheng , Xu Yang , Zhang Xiao Kun , Chen Hai Feng
Published: April 2011

Four new metabolites, including three new oblongolides named C1, P1, and X1 (1-3) and 6-hydroxyphomodiol (10), along with eight known compounds – oblongolides B (4), C (5), D (6), O (7), P (8) and U (9), (3R,4aR,5S,6R)-6-hydroxy-5-methylramulosin (11), and (3R)-5-methylmellein (12) – were isolated from the endophytic fungal strain Phomopsis sp. XZ-01 of Camptotheca acuminate. Their structures were elucidated by spectroscopic analyses, including 1H- and 13C-NMR, 2D NMR (HSQC, HMBC, 1H-1H COSY and NOESY) and HR-FT-MS. Cytotoxic activities of these compounds were evaluated. Some of them showed weak selective activities.
Salidroside Attenuates Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Cell Damage Through a cAMP-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Guan Shuang , Wang Wei , Lu Jing , Qian Wenhui , Huang Guoren , Deng Xuming , Wang Xuelin
Published: April 2011

Salidroside, a major component of Rhodiola rosea L., has shown various pharmacological functions, including antioxidant effects, but the signal transduction pathway of its antioxidant effects is not very clear. In this study, we found that salidroside could attenuate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced HL-7702 cell damage, inhibit H2O2-induced cytosolic free Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) elevation, scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and increase 3’-5’-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) level in a dose-dependent manner, but it couldn’t influence 3’-5’-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. Therefore, these results indicated that the antioxidant effects of salidroside were associated with down-regulation of [Ca2+]i, ROS occur via a cAMP-dependent pathway.
Distributed Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (D2HCP)
Authors: García Villalba Luis Javier , Matesanz Julián García , Sandoval Orozco Ana Lucila , Márquez Díaz José Duván
Published: April 2011

Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs) are multihop wireless networks of mobile nodes without any fixed or preexisting infrastructure. The topology of these networks can change randomly due to the unpredictable mobility of nodes and their propagation characteristics. In most networks, including MANETs, each node needs a unique identifier to communicate. This work presents a distributed protocol for dynamic node IP address assignment in MANETs. Nodes of a MANET synchronize from time to time to maintain a record of IP address assignments in the entire network and detect any IP address leaks. The proposed stateful autoconfiguration scheme uses the OLSR proactive routing protocol for synchronization and guarantees unique IP addresses under a variety of network conditions, including message losses and network partitioning. Simulation results show that the protocol incurs low latency and communication overhead for IP address assignment.
Hard Times in Higher Education: The Closure of Subject Centres and the Implications for Education for Sustainable Development (ESD)
Authors: Chalkley Brian , Sterling Stephen
Published: April 2011

Within many British Universities and, indeed, across higher education internationally, how best to provide education for sustainable development (ESD) has become an increasingly important issue. There is now a widespread view that higher education sectors have a key part to play in preparing societies for the transition to a low carbon economy and the shift towards more sustainable ways of living and working. In the UK, a leading role in this field has been played by the Higher Education Academy and especially its network of 24 Subject Centres, each of which promotes curriculum enhancement in a particular discipline area. The mission of the Higher Education Academy has been to help raise the overall quality of the student learning experience across all disciplines and all Higher Education institutions (HEIs). As part of promoting and supporting many kinds of curriculum innovation and staff development, the HE Academy has championed the cause of ESD. Now, however, as a result of government spending cuts, the Academy is facing severe budget reductions and all its Subject Centres are soon to close. At this pivotal moment, the purpose of this paper is, therefore, to review the HE Academy’s past contribution to ESD and to explore the likely future implications of the demise of its Subject Centres. The paper ends by outlining some ideas as to how the ESD agenda might be advanced in the post-Subject Centre era, in the light of the Academy’s intention to support subject communities under its new structure. The paper has been developed through participation in key committees, engagement with Academy and Subject Centre staff, as well as through a literature review.
A Three Level Framework for Closed-Loop Supply Chain Management—Linking Society, Chain and Actor Level
Authors: Morana Romy , Seuring Stefan
Published: April 2011

Supply chain management and closed-loop supply chain management (CLSCM) have developed into established concepts in recent years. The related material cycles and product returns form an important part of all related processes with high potential for reducing environmental burden. The paper proposes a framework for (environmentally triggered) closed-loop supply chain management, spanning three different levels: the societal or governance, the chain and the actor level. Within each level, a set of activities or processes can be identified. Taken together, the levels allow a comprehensive analysis of a closed-loop supply chain system. This is illustrated building on two case studies in the textile and apparel industry, where closed-loop supply chains have been designed to take specific apparel products back. The case studies are analyzed against all three levels and allow exemplification of related challenges and interrelations among the three levels. The three levels contribute to the further comprehension of the multiple issues having to be taken into account for successfully implementing closed-loop supply chains.
Discordance between HCV RNA Assays for Week 24 HCV RNA Determination during Pegylated Interferon-α/Ribavirin Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Roomer Robert , van Vuuren Anneke J , Schutten Martin , Heijens Angela , Janssen Harry LA , de Knegt Robert J
Published: April 2011

Background

The development of more sensitive HCV RNA assays might necessitate re-evaluation of the rules for stopping treatment (for example, HCV RNA negativity at week 24 during treatment with pegylated interferon-α and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C). The aim of this study was to assess discordance between the week 24 HCV RNA test results of two PCR-based assays (Amplicor and Taq-Man) and the transcription-mediated amplification (TMA) HCV RNA qualitative assay.

Methods

A total of 89 week 24 samples that were negative using PCR-based assays during treatment were retested with the TMA qualitative assay to investigate discordance between tests results. All week 24 samples were HCV RNA negative by Amplicor or by TaqMan.

Results

Of the 89 patients, 46 (52%) achieved sustained virological response (SVR). Viral breakthrough or relapse occurred in 43 patients (48%). All 89 HCV RNA negative week 24 samples were retested with the qualitative TMA assay. Eleven out of 89 samples had detectable HCV RNA (12%). All patients with detectable HCV RNA experienced breakthrough or relapse (negative predictive value 100%). Of the 78 patients with undetectable HCV RNA at week 24 using the TMA assay, 46 achieved SVR. This resulted in a positive predictive value (PPV) of 59% for the TMA assay compared with a PPV of 52% for the PCR-based assays.

Conclusions

All patients with detectable HCV RNA at week 24 using the TMA assay eventually relapsed. On the basis of these results, the use of this more sensitive HCV RNA assay could lead to the prevention of unnecessary treatment.
Efavirenz and Rifampicin in the South African Context: Is There a Need to Dose-Increase Efavirenz with Concurrent Rifampicin Therapy?
Authors: Orrell Catherine , Cohen Karen , Conradie Francesca , Zeinecker Jennifer , Ive Prudence , Sanne Ian , Wood Robin
Published: April 2011

Background

Increasing efavirenz (EFV) dose from 600 mg to 800 mg daily has been suggested with concomitant rifampicin (RFN), as induction of cytochrome P450 isoenzymes may reduce EFV plasma concentrations

Methods

Individuals from the CIPRA-South Africa cohort taking EFV-based antiretroviral therapy with concomitant tuberculosis (TB) were dosed with either increased (800 mg) or standard (600 mg) dose EFV during TB treatment. After TB therapy, all individuals took 600 mg EFV. Two mid-dosing interval EFV concentrations were determined from each individual: after 4 weeks of concomitant EFV and RFN therapy, and ≥4 weeks after TB therapy completion. Mid-dosing interval EFV concentrations were compared within individuals using the Wilcoxon signed– rank test.

Results

Paired samples were collected from 72 individuals. Overall, 45 (63%) were women and median weight was 59 kg (IQR 52–67). At antiretroviral therapy start, median CD4+ T-cell count was 114 cells/mm3 (IQR 37–165), median viral load was 5.5 log (IQR 5.1–5.9). A total of 38 (53%) individuals took 800 mg EFV during TB treatment and 34 (47%) took 600 mg. EFV concentrations in the 800 mg group were higher with RFN (2.9 mg/l [IQR 1.8–5.6]) than without (2.1 mg/l [IQR 1.4–3.0]; P=0.0003). There was no significant difference in EFV concentrations with RFN (2.4 mg/l [IQR 1.2–5.1]) or without (2.2 mg/l [IQR 1.4–3.7]) in the 600 mg group. There was no increase in EFV-linked adverse effects in either group. The proportion of virologically suppressed individuals at 48 weeks was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

EFV concentrations were significantly increased in the EFV 800 mg group on RFN. There was no significant decrease in EFV concentrations when on RFN in the 600 mg group. Dose escalation of EFV 600 mg to 800 mg is not required during concomitant TB therapy in South Africa.
Souveraineté, démocratie et identité : la question permanente et sensible de la nation à Taiwan
Authors: Courmont Barthélemy
Published: April 2011

Résumé Taiwan n’est pas officiellement un Etat, malgré la situation d’indépendance de facto dans laquelle vit l’île depuis plus de soixante ans, la souveraineté assumée et la mise en place progressive de tous les attributs de la démocratie. En conséquence, la question nationale y est particulièrement sensible, et dépendante de divers facteurs, tels que le poids de l’histoire, la relation avec la Chine continentale, ou le processus de démocratisation, désormais achevé. L’intégrité territoriale de Taiwan reste par ailleurs dépendante de la relation avec les Etats-Unis, arbitre incontournable des relations inter-détroit. Mais, démocratie oblige, c’est sur le plan interne que la nation est le plus l’objet de débats, entre un désir de se séparer de manière définitive de la Chine et la volonté de ne pas prendre des distances trop marquées avec Pékin. Dans ce contexte, toutes les échéances électorales à Taiwan, les dernières en date étant les législatives de janvier et les présidentielles de mars 2008, sont intimement liées à la question sensible de l’existence d’une nation taiwanaise, et déterminent dans le même temps la souveraineté de Taipei par rapport à Pékin. La question de la nation est ainsi sensible à la fois dans la relation avec la Chine continentale, et dans ses incidences directes sur la société taiwanaise.
A neutral red desiccated coconut agar for rapid detection of aflatoxigenic fungi and visual determination of aflatoxins
Authors: Atanda O. , Ogunrinu M. , Olorunfemi F.
Published: April 2011

Desiccated coconut agar is the conventional medium used for the detection of aflatoxigenic fungi and direct visual
determination of aflatoxins. In this study, an improved medium was developed by the incorporation of 0.2% (v/v)
neutral red dye into desiccated coconut agar. The medium was formulated by a 2×3 factorial design of neutral red
and phenol red stains at three concentration levels. The formulated medium was evaluated for performance by
screening for the minimal time required by each Aspergillus species to produce pigments and fluorescence of agar.
The medium was also employed for detection of aflatoxigenic fungi and direct visual determination of aflatoxins in
foods and fish-meal. The neutral red desiccated coconut agar (NRDCA) as compared to the conventional desiccated
coconut agar (DCA) had a light pink background as opposed to the white background of the DCA which often
interferes with the visibility of fluorescence. The time of pigmentation and fluorescence production on NRDCA
was 28 and 38 h respectively as compared with 33 and 44 h of DCA and 41 and 48 h of palm kernel agar (PKA: an
alternative culture medium for cultivation of aflatoxigenic fungi with a reddish pink background). Furthermore,
aflatoxigenic moulds were detected in all food commodities and fish-meal after 60 hours of incubation. The highest
percentage of aflatoxigenic moulds (62.5%) was detected in yam flour with NRDCA while the lowest percentage
(4.46%) was detected with PKA on rice. In addition, aflatoxins were produced in high amounts in food commodities
in which aflatoxigenic moulds were detected and there was a significant positive correlation (r=0.4, P<0.05) between
the isolates and aflatoxin concentration of the food samples. Rice (a major staple food for Nigerians) had the highest
total aflatoxin concentration of 140, 220 and 205 µg/kg on DCA, NRDCA and PKA respectively, while ‘gari’ had
the least concentration of 45, 50 and 40 µg/kg. These values were far above the NAFDAC recommended level of
10 µg/kg for unprocessed foods in Nigeria and therefore a source of concern. In addition the study also reveals
that Aspergillus nomius can produce aflatoxins B1 in copious amounts on NRDCA, contrary to previous reports
of its production in minute quantities on laboratory media. The benefit of this study lies in the rapid analysis and
simplified technique for the detection of aflatoxigenic fungi and visual determination of aflatoxins.
Effects of sub-lethal food grade antioxidant doses and environmental stressors on growth, sclerotia, aflatoxins and aflD (nor-1) expression by Aspergillus parasiticus RCP08300
Authors: Passone M. , Rosso L. , Varela M. , Ciancio A. , Etcheverry M.
Published: April 2011

The aim of the work was to examine the effects of sub-lethal doses of butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated
hydroxytoluene (BHT) (1+1 mmol/l and 5+5 mmol/l), water activities (0.98, 0.95, 0.93, 0.89 aW) and temperatures (28,
20 °C) on growth, sclerotial characteristics, aflatoxin accumulation and aflD (=nor-1) transcript level by Aspergillus
parasiticus RCP08300 on peanut based medium. Growth rate and aflatoxin production were inhibited by BHA-BHT
mixture (1+1 mmol/l), regardless of environmental factor assayed. Although sclerotia number and aflD expression
were stimulated by this treatment, sclerotia dry weight and volume were reduced by 62.3 and 31.2%, respectively.
In contrast, when the fungus grew in presence of the higher dose of BHA-BHT mixture none or very low aflatoxin
accumulation and aflD expression occurred. Similarly, A. parasiticus growth has been highly influenced by BHA-BHT
(5+5 mmol/l) and interacting stress factors. Data show that sub-lethal antioxidant doses significantly reduced
growth and aflatoxin accumulation by A. parasiticus but these treatments were not able to repress the expression
of the early expression gene (aflD) involved in aflatoxin biosynthesis. Thus, this represents a high potential risk of
stored peanuts contamination with aflatoxins.
Staphylococcus aureus Metalloprotease Aureolysin Cleaves Complement C3 To Mediate Immune Evasion
Authors: Laarman Alexander J. , Ruyken Maartje , Malone Cheryl L. , van Strijp Jos A. G. , Horswill Alexander R. , Rooijakkers Suzan H. M.
Published: April 2011

Complement is one of the first host defense barriers against bacteria. Activated complement attracts neutrophils to the site of infection and opsonizes bacteria to facilitate phagocytosis. The human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus has successfully developed ways to evade the complement system, for example by secretion of specific complement inhibitors. However, the influence of S. aureus proteases on the host complement system is still poorly understood. In this study, we identify the metalloprotease aureolysin as a potent complement inhibitor. Aureolysin effectively inhibits phagocytosis and killing of bacteria by neutrophils. Furthermore, we show that aureolysin inhibits the deposition of C3b on bacterial surfaces and the release of the chemoattractant C5a. Cleavage analyses show that aureolysin cleaves the central complement protein C3. Strikingly, there was a clear difference between the cleavages of C3 in serum versus purified conditions. Aureolysin cleaves purified C3 specifically in the α-chain, close to the C3 convertase cleavage site, yielding active C3a and C3b. However, in serum we observe that the aureolysin-generated C3b is further degraded by host factors. We pinpointed these factors to be factor H and factor I. Using an aureolysin mutant in S. aureus USA300, we show that aureolysin is essential and sufficient for C3 cleavage by bacterial supernatant. In short, aureolysin acts in synergy with host regulators to inactivate C3 thereby effectively dampening the host immune response.
Strength of TCR–Peptide/MHC Interactions and In Vivo T Cell Responses
Authors: Corse Emily , Gottschalk Rachel A. , Allison James P.
Published: April 2011

The TCR can detect subtle differences in the strength of interaction with peptide/MHC ligand and transmit this information to influence downstream events in T cell responses. Manipulation of the factor commonly referred to as TCR signal strength can be achieved by changing the amount or quality of peptide/MHC ligand. Recent work has enhanced our understanding of the many variables that contribute to the apparent cumulative strength of TCR stimulation during immunogenic and tolerogenic T cell responses. In this review, we consider data from in vitro studies in the context of in vivo immune responses and discuss in vivo consequences of manipulation of strength of TCR stimulation, including influences on T cell–APC interactions, the magnitude and quality of the T cell response, and the types of fate decisions made by peripheral T cells.
Female X-Chromosome Mosaicism for NOX2 Deficiency Presents Unique Inflammatory Phenotype and Improves Outcome in Polymicrobial Sepsis
Authors: Chandra Rachna , Federici Stephanie , Németh Zoltán H. , Horváth Béla , Pacher Pál , Haskó György , Deitch Edwin A. , Spolarics Zoltán
Published: April 2011

Cellular X-chromosome mosaicism, which is unique to females, may be advantageous during pathophysiological challenges compared with the single X-chromosome machinery of males, and it may contribute to gender dimorphism in the inflammatory response. We tested the hypothesis of whether cellular mosaicism for the X-linked gp91phox (NOX2) deficiency, the catalytic component of the superoxide anion-generating NADPH oxidase complex, is advantageous during polymicrobial sepsis. Deficient, wild-type (WT), and heterozygous/mosaic mice were compared following polymicrobial sepsis initiated by cecal ligation and puncture. Compared with WT littermates, sepsis-induced mortality was improved in deficient mice, as well as in mosaic animals carrying both deficient and WT phagocyte subpopulations. In contrast, blood bacterial counts were greatest in deficient mice. Consistent with poor survival, WT mice also showed the most severe organ damage following sepsis. In mosaic animals, the deficient neutrophil subpopulations displayed increased organ recruitment and elevated CD11b membrane expression compared with WT neutrophil subpopulations within the same animal. The dynamics of sepsis-induced blood and organ cytokine content and WBC composition changes, including lymphocyte subsets in blood and bone marrow, showed differences among WT, deficient, and mosaic subjects, indicating that mosaic mice are not simply the average of the deficient and WT responses. Upon oxidative burst, interchange of oxidants between WT and deficient neutrophil subpopulations occurred in mosaic mice. This study suggests that mice mosaic for gp91phox expression have multiple advantages compared with WT and deficient mice during the septic course.
Pediatric Stroke: Clinical Findings and Radiological Approach
Authors: Lanni Giuseppe , Catalucci Alessia , Conti Laura , Di Sibio Alessandra , Paonessa Amalia , Gallucci Massimo
Published: April 2011

This paper focuses on radiological approach in pediatric stroke including both ischemic stroke (Arterial Ischemic Stroke and Cerebral Sinovenous Thrombosis) and hemorrhagic stroke. Etiopathology and main clinical findings are examined as well. Magnetic Resonance Imaging could be considered as the first-choice diagnostic exam, offering a complete diagnostic set of information both in the discrimination between ischemic/hemorrhagic stroke and in the identification of underlying causes. In addition, Magnetic Resonance vascular techniques supply further information about cerebral arterial and venous circulation. Computed Tomography, for its limits and radiation exposure, should be used only when Magnetic Resonance is not available and on unstable patients.
Fabrication of Hybrid Diamond and Transparent Conducting Metal Oxide Electrode for Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Hu Jingping , Hodge James , Boff Arthur J. , Foord John S.
Published: April 2011

A novel diamond transparent electrode is constructed by integrating conductive diamond film and transparent conducting metal oxide to combine the superior electrochemical properties of diamond and the electrical conductivity of transparent metal oxide (TCO). Direct growth of diamond on indium tin oxide (ITO) and aluminium doped zinc oxide (AZO) was explored, but X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement reveals that both substrates cannot survive from the aggressive environment of diamond growth even if the latter is regarded as one of the most stable TCO. As a second route, a diamond membrane in silicon frame was prepared by selective chemical etching, and a diamond optically transparent electrode (OTE) was constructed by assembling the diamond membrane on the top of an ITO-coated substrate. The resulting device exhibits a high optical transparency and quasireversible electrochemical kinetics, which are competitive to other diamond OTEs reported previously. Its application in UV-Vis spectroelectrochemical studies on the oxidisation of 4-aminophenol was demonstrated.
Correction of Iron Deficiency in the Cardiorenal Syndrome
Authors: Silverberg Donald S. , Wexler Dov , Iaina Adrian , Schwartz Doron
Published: April 2011

Impaired energy metabolism is a feature of Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). Iron deficiency has been shown to reduce energy production in the cell in animals and humans. Iron deficiency is common in both Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and in CHF. Recent studies suggest that iron deficiency is an independent risk factor for mortality in CHF. Studies of correction of the anemia with intravenous (IV) iron in both CKD and CHF have shown an improvement in the anemia and, in some cases, in the renal function as well. Some CHF studies of correction of the iron deficiency have shown an improvement in cardiac function and structure as well as in exercise capacity and quality of life. This occurred independent of whether or not they had anemia, suggesting that the iron deficiency itself may be independently contributing to the worsening of the CHF and CKD. If future long-term studies confirm the safety and efficacy of IV iron in the treatment of iron deficiency in CKD and CHF, this will become a new addition to the therapeutic armamentarium of the cardiorenal syndrome, and parameters of iron deficiency will become part of the routine measurements performed in both CKD and CHF whether or not the patient is anemic.