bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Participatory Research and the Philosophy of Social Science
Authors: van der Riet Mary
Published: May 2008

Participatory research has a predominantly transformative and social justice concern. This article goes beyond the moral imperative of participatory research to address its potential to account for human action, the subject matter of social science research, through accessing its intentionality and sociality, and accounting for the complex and interactive nature of behavior. Two of the core principles of participatory research (participation and accessing local knowledge) are articulated in relation to dialogism and dialectics. The interpretive potential of the dialectical relationship between empathy and distanciation is discussed and illustrated in the novel visualization approaches in participatory learning and action. The article concludes with a critical discussion of the conflation of social justice concerns with claims to validity. It is argued that participatory research approaches enhance validity because they address the participative, social and relational nature of human action.
Narrating Human Actions
Authors: Lieblich Amia , Zilber Tammar B. , Tuval-Mashiach Rivka
Published: May 2008

In this article, the authors offer a model for the exploration of the ways social actors narrate the forces that have driven their lives. They position this exploration in light of the notions of agency, structure, communion, and serendipity, as formulated in various social-science theories of human action, viewed as part of the cultural repertoire of discourses available to narrators. The authors suggest a model for understanding the interrelationships between agency, structure, communion, and serendipity—as worked out in the subjective experience of life-story narrators—and exemplify the model through the analysis of one woman's life story.
Strategic Anticipation and the Hierarchy of Justice in U.S. District Courts
Authors: Randazzo Kirk A.
Published: May 2008

Does the hierarchical relationship between the district courts and the courts of appeals influence decision making at the trial level? Do these judges anticipate responses by appellate panels and condition their decisions based on these expectations? Using a sample of district court cases from 1925 to 1996 that were subsequently reviewed by the courts of appeals, and incorporating a strategic choice statistical framework, I discover that the district courts are constrained by the anticipated responses of the appeals courts. However, this conclusion is not apparent if one analyzes the data using traditional maximum likelihood methods. Only when empirical analyses specifically model underlying strategic relationships does one discover this constraint. If the federal trial judges anticipate a negative response on appeal, then they curtail their ideological influences (the magnitude of influence decreases by approximately one-half). This pattern remains consistent when one examines civil liberties and economic cases, but not for criminal cases. Thus, the hierarchical structure of the federal judiciary appears to exert a significant constraint on the district courts.
Strategic Self-Orientalism
Authors: Umbach Greg (“Fritz") , Wishnoff Dan
Published: May 2008

Although Manhattan's Chinatown bears few traces of it today, from 1950 to 2005 local elites attempted to use city planning schemes to fashion an urban space that exploited exoticized notions of the quarter and its residents. Three ultimately unsuccessful proposals exemplify these “strategic self-orientalizing” endeavors: “China Village,” a Title I urban renewal proposal (1950-1954); Chinatown Revitalization Plan, an effort to alter Chinatown's streetscapes (1975); and The Unity Arch, an ornamental gate (2002-2005). Examining these proposals revises the history of Chinatown-planning nationally while revealing a story of cold-war machinations, changing immigration patterns, and the rise of identity politics.
C-Reactive Protein Predicts Future Arterial and Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Symptomatic Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Hogh Annette L. , Joensen Jette , Lindholt Jes S. , Jacobsen Martin R. , Ostergaard Lars
Published: May 2008

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events. Consequently, the predictive value of this protein in patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease was examined. In all, 452 patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease had high-sensitivity C-reactive protein measured at baseline (mean follow-up = 2.1 ± 1.4 years). Events were defined as primary (death, amputation, or peripheral revascularization) or secondary (lower limb thrombosis, myocardial infarction, or stroke).The level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein was significantly higher among those dying ( P = .04), those who needed amputation ( P = .01), and those developing an overall secondary endpoint ( P = .02). By receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis, the optimal cutoff point was constantly approximately 10 to 20 mg/L with a sensitivity and specificity of 56% to 63% and 54% to 56%, respectively. Baseline levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein are associated with future arterial events in symptomatic peripheral arterial disease patients but cannot stand alone as a predictive tool.
On deviation from parabolic behaviour during transient liquid phase bonding
Authors: Ojo O. A. , Abdelfatah M. M.
Published: May 2008

Transient liquid phase bonding of a nickel based superalloy was performed. Departure from the parabolic relationship between solid/liquid interface migration and holding time that is predicted by standard analytical models was observed. The deviation is suggested as an alternate phenomenon responsible for anomalous extension of holding time required to produce eutectic free joint with increase in bonding temperature.
Comparative study of antimicrobial and photocatalytic activity in titania encapsulated composite nanoparticles with different dopants
Authors: Venkatasubramanian R. , Srivastava R. S. , Misra R. D. K.
Published: May 2008

The present study describes a relative comparison of antimicrobial and photocatalytic activity in titania encapsulated nickel ferrite nanoparticles with different dopants. The photocatalytic and antimicrobial activity in doped titania composite nanoparticles follows the sequence: W4+ doped > Nd3+ doped > Zn2+ doped > undoped titania. The maximum enhancement in tungsten doped titania is attributed to the greater inhibition of electron hole recombination process and decrease in band gap in titania. The ferrite magnetic nanoparticles encapsulated with the photocatalytic shell retain superparamagnetic characteristics and magnetic strength encouraging their potential application as removable antimicrobial photocatalytic composite nanoparticles. The combination of reverse micelle and hydrolysis method is recognised as a promising method for the synthesis of these composite nanoparticles.
Al,Zr–FeSi preconditioning of grey cast irons
Authors: Riposan I. , Chisamera M. , Stan S. , Toboc P. , Ecob C. , White D.
Published: May 2008

Laboratory research has been conducted to investigate the effect of strong deoxidising elements such as Al, Zr or Ti in preconditioning of uninoculated and inoculated grey irons. Experimental heats were performed in an acid lined crucible induction furnace at 3˙7–3˙9% carbon equivalent, 5˙5–6˙5 Mn/S ratio and, <0˙005%Al and Ti. The content of 0˙027–0˙028%Al, 0˙011–0˙017%Ti or 0˙011–0˙013%Zr was obtained in preconditioned irons. Not only inoculation but also the preconditioning of the base iron has a strong effect on the solidification pattern. Preconditioning led to an improved level measuring the most significant temperatures of cooling curves and resulted in a positive trend of eutectic and of the end of solidification representative parameters, in both uninoculated and inoculated irons. A foundry case study is represented to illustrate the efficiency of Al and Zr bearing FeSi preconditioning of electrically melted, inoculated grey iron: decreasing the eutectic undercooling and recalescence, improved graphite characteristics, avoiding carbides, increased tensile strength, while heat treatment was eliminated, for 5 mm sections castings.
Preparation of Fe and Co based amorphous wires by in-water quenching process
Authors: Kumar A. , Singh R. J. , Mitra A. , Panda A. K.
Published: May 2008

The investigation addresses the effect of in-water quenching process parameters on the magnetic properties of Fe and Co based amorphous wires. The in-water quenching process parameters such as water drum speed, crucible nozzle orifice diameter, crucible nozzle to water level separation and gas pressure for melt ejection were found to be critically important to obtain continuous and ductile wires. The thinner wires with a diameter of ∼124 μm revealed superior soft magnetic properties with coercivities as low as ∼5˙63 A m–1 (70˙8 mOe) which was attributed to their high amorphous nature and consequent isotropy. This was also manifested from their surface morphology as observed by scanning electron microscopy. The Fe77˙5Si7˙5B15 and Co72˙5Si12˙5B15 (at.-%) wires in their as prepared state revealed high fracture strength, above 3000 MPa, and high microhardness ∼1200 HV (Vickers pyramid number).
Responses of five small mammal species to micro-scale variations in vegetation structure in secondary Atlantic Forest remnants, Brazil
Authors: Püttker Thomas , Pardini Renata , Meyer-Lucht Yvonne , Sommer Simone
Published: May 2008

Background

The Brazilian Atlantic Forest is highly endangered and only about 7% of the original forest remains, most of which consists of fragments of secondary forest. Small mammals in the Atlantic Forest have differential responses to this process of fragmentation and conversion of forest into anthropogenic habitats, and have varying abilities to occupy the surrounding altered habitats. We investigated the influence of vegetation structure on the micro-scale distribution of five small mammal species in six secondary forest remnants in a landscape of fragmented Atlantic Forest. We tested whether the occurrence of small mammal species is influenced by vegetation structure, aiming to ascertain whether species with different degrees of vulnerability to forest fragmentation (not vulnerable: A. montensis, O. nigripes and G. microtarsus; vulnerable: M. incanus and D. sublineatus; classification of vulnerability was based on the results of previous studies) are associated with distinct vegetation characteristics.

Results

Although vegetation structure differed among fragments, micro-scale distribution of most of the species was influenced by vegetation structure in a similar way in different fragments. Among the three species that were previously shown not to be vulnerable to forest fragmentation, A. montensis and G. microtarsus were present at locations with an open canopy and the occurrence of O. nigripes was associated to a low canopy and a dense understory. On the other hand, from the two species that were shown to be vulnerable to fragmentation, M. incanus was captured most often at locations with a closed canopy while the distribution of D. sublineatus was not clearly influenced by micro-scale variation in vegetation structure.

Conclusion

Results indicate the importance of micro-scale variation in vegetation structure for the distribution of small mammal species in secondary forest fragments. Species that are not vulnerable to fragmentation occurred at locations with vegetation characteristics of more disturbed forest, while one of the species vulnerable to fragmentation was found at locations with older forest characteristics. Results suggest that micro-habitat preferences may be an important factor influencing the capacity of small mammals to occupy altered habitats and, consequently, their vulnerability to forest fragmentation at a larger spatial scale.
Nuclear localization and intensity of staining of nm23 protein is useful marker for breast cancer progression
Authors: Ismail Nawfal I , Kaur Gurjeet , Hashim Hasnah , Hassan Mohammed S
Published: May 2008

Background

Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the western world. The expression differences of many proteins are associated with breast cancer progression or suppression. The purpose of the study was to determine the expression of nm23 protein in the invasion status and metastatic potential of breast cancer by using tissue microarray and to determine its role in breast cancer based on the expression of nm23 gene product.

Method

nm23 protein expression was examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using commercially available tissue microarray containing malignant and normal breast tissues from 216 patients.

Results

a similar percentage of cases showed positive cytoplasmic/nuclear staining for nm23 in normal breast tissue (85.7%), primary breast carcinoma node negative (97.5%) and carcinoma with lymph node metastasis (92.1%). Nuclear localization of staining for nm23 protein was higher in infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC) node positive (24.3%) and in matched lymph mode metastasis (18.9%) compared to IDC node negative (4.9%). Strong intensity of cytoplasmic/nucleus staining was observed in IDC node negative (42.6%), in IDC node positive (57.1%), and Infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC) node negative (44%) compared to normal breast tissue (16.7%).

Conclusion

nm23 protein expression appears widely expressed in normal breast, early and advanced breast cancer stages. Interestingly our study found that strong staining intensity and nuclear localization of nm23 protein may prove to be a useful marker of breast cancer progression.
Infective endocarditis caused by Staphylococcus aureus in a patient with atopic dermatitis: a case report
Authors: Mohiyiddeen Gadha , Brett Ian , Jude Edward
Published: May 2008

Introduction-

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common condition in the United Kingdom with the prevalence varying from 21% in infants aged 0–6 months to 6.4% at the age of 16 years. Patients with AD experience high rates of colonization of their skin surfaces by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). In severe AD there is a potential risk of staphylococcal bacteremia and invasive infection such as acute endocarditis.

Case presentation-

We report a case of acute endocarditis with mitral valve destruction caused by S. aureus in a 30-year-old man with severe AD. The patient received intensive inpatient treatment with antibiotics and underwent successful mitral valve replacement and skin treatment for AD.

Conclusion-

Patients with severe AD are at higher risk of staphylococcal bacteremia and endocarditis. Staphylococcal endocarditis has to be considered in the differential diagnosis of febrile illness in patients with uncontrolled atopic dermatitis.
Cerebral perfusion in sepsis-associated delirium
Authors: Pfister David , Siegemund Martin , Dell-Kuster Salome , Smielewski Peter , Rüegg Stephan , Strebel Stephan P , Marsch Stephan CU , Pargger Hans , Steiner Luzius A
Published: May 2008

Introduction

The pathophysiology of sepsis-associated delirium is not completely understood and the data on cerebral perfusion in sepsis are conflicting. We tested the hypothesis that cerebral perfusion and selected serum markers of inflammation and delirium differ in septic patients with and without sepsis-associated delirium.

Methods

We investigated 23 adult patients with sepsis, severe sepsis, or septic shock with an extracranial focus of infection and no history of intracranial pathology. Patients were investigated after stabilisation within 48 hours after admission to the intensive care unit. Sepsis-associated delirium was diagnosed using the confusion assessment method for the intensive care unit. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), blood flow velocity (FV) in the middle cerebral artery using transcranial Doppler, and cerebral tissue oxygenation using near-infrared spectroscopy were monitored for 1 hour. An index of cerebrovascular autoregulation was calculated from MAP and FV data. C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), S-100β, and cortisol were measured during each data acquisition.

Results

Data from 16 patients, of whom 12 had sepsis-associated delirium, were analysed. There were no significant correlations or associations between MAP, cerebral blood FV, or tissue oxygenation and sepsis-associated delirium. However, we found a significant association between sepsis-associated delirium and disturbed autoregulation (P = 0.015). IL-6 did not differ between patients with and without sepsis-associated delirium, but we found a significant association between elevated CRP (P = 0.008), S-100β (P = 0.029), and cortisol (P = 0.011) and sepsis-associated delirium. Elevated CRP was significantly correlated with disturbed autoregulation (Spearman rho = 0.62, P = 0.010).

Conclusion

In this small group of patients, cerebral perfusion assessed with transcranial Doppler and near-infrared spectroscopy did not differ between patients with and without sepsis-associated delirium. However, the state of autoregulation differed between the two groups. This may be due to inflammation impeding cerebrovascular endothelial function. Further investigations defining the role of S-100β and cortisol in the diagnosis of sepsis-associated delirium are warranted.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00410111.
Prophylaxis of lipopolysaccharide-induced shock by α-galactosylceramide
Authors: Sireci Guido , La Manna Marco Pio , Di Liberto Diana , Lo Dico Marco , Taniguchi Masaru , Dieli Francesco , Salerno Alfredo
Published: May 2008

The NKT cell ligand α-galactosylceramide and its synthetic homologue KRN7000 stimulate rapid and copious secretion of IFN-γ and TNF-α release, both of which are key mediators of LPS-induced shock. We showed that KRN7000, injected before or within 2 h after LPS challenge, was able to prevent endotoxic shock. KRN7000 induced survival when the mice were injected 6, 9, or 12 days before the first injection of LPS, and this protective effect was associated with reduction upon subsequent challenge in the levels of IFN-γ, TNF-α, MCP-1, and an increase of IL-10. Further analysis showed that the animals treated with KRN7000 prior to LPS challenge had lower numbers of F4/80+, NKT, and NK cells and lower percentages of NKT cells that stained for intracytoplasmic IFN-γ when compared with mice that were not treated with KRN7000. When MCP-1 was injected in KRN7000-treated mice, the lethal effect of LPS challenge was restored, and the numbers of F4/80+, NKT, and NK cells increased to levels similar to those in untreated mice following LPS challenge. Taken together, our data demonstrated that KRN7000, injected from 6 to 12 days before the first administration of LPS, prevented endotoxin shock by inhibiting IFN-γ, TNF-α, and MCP-1 release.
Cellular trafficking of lipoteichoic acid and Toll-like receptor 2 in relation to signaling; role of CD14 and CD36
Authors: Nilsen Nadra J , Deininger Susanne , Nonstad Unni , Skjeldal Frode , Husebye Harald , Rodionov Dmitrii , von Aulock Sonja , Hartung Thomas , Lien Egil , Bakke Oddmund , Espevik Terje
Published: May 2008

Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is a central inducer of inflammatory responses caused by Gram-positive bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, via activation of TLR2. Localization of TLR2 in relation to its coreceptors may be important for function. This study explores the signaling, uptake, and trafficking pattern of LTA in relation to expression of TLR2 and its coreceptors CD36 and CD14 in human monocytes. We found TLR2 expressed in early endosomes, late endosomes/lysosomes, and in Rab-11-positive compartments but not in the Golgi apparatus or endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Rapid internalization of fluorescently labeled LTA was observed in human monocytes, colocalizing with markers for early and late endosomes, lysosomes, ER, and Golgi network. Blocking CD14 and CD36 with antibodies inhibited LTA binding and LTA-induced TNF release from monocytes, emphasizing an important role for both molecules as coreceptors for TLR2. Importantly, blocking CD36 did not affect TNF release induced by N-palmitoyl-S-[2,3-bis(palmitoyloxy)-(2R,S)-propyl]-(R)-cysteinyl-seryl-(lysyl)3-lysine or LPS. Expression of CD14 markedly enhanced LTA binding to the plasma membrane and also enhanced NF-κB activation. LTA internalization, but not NF-κB activation, was inhibited in Dynamin-I K44A dominant-negative transfectants, suggesting that LTA is internalized by receptor-mediated endocytosis but that internalization is not required for signaling. In fact, immobilizing LTA and thereby inhibiting internalization resulted in enhanced TNF release from monocytes. Our results suggest that LTA signaling preferentially occurs at the plasma membrane, is independent of internalization, and is facilitated by CD36 and CD14 as coreceptors for TLR2.
Efficacy and Safety of Lapatinib As First-Line Therapy for ErbB2-Amplified Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Gomez Henry L. , Doval Dinesh C. , Chavez Miguel A. , Ang Peter C.-S. , Aziz Zeba , Nag Shona , Ng Christina , Franco Sandra X. , Chow Louis W.C. , Arbushites Michael C. , Casey Michelle A. , Berger Mark S. , Stein Steven H. , Sledge George W.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

This study ( EGF20009 ) assessed the efficacy and tolerability of two lapatinib administration schedules as first-line monotherapy in women with ErbB2-amplified locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

Patients with ErbB2-amplified, locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer previously untreated in the metastatic setting were randomly assigned to one of two lapatinib dose cohorts and received either 1,500 mg once daily or 500 mg twice daily. Clinical response was assessed at weeks 8 and 12 and every 12 weeks thereafter.

Results

A total of 138 patients were treated with lapatinib for a median of 17.6 weeks. The overall response rate (complete response [CR] plus partial response [PR]) was 24% in the intent-to-treat population, and 31% of patients derived clinical benefit (CR, PR, or stable disease for ≥ 24 weeks). The median time to response was 7.9 weeks, and the progression-free survival rates at 4 and 6 months were 63% and 43%, respectively. The most common lapatinib-related adverse events (AEs) were diarrhea, rash, pruritus, and nausea, and these events were primarily grade 1 or 2. There were no significant differences in clinical activity or the AE profile between the dosing schedules.

Conclusion

Lapatinib demonstrated clinical activity and was well tolerated as first-line therapy in ErbB2-amplified locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer. This study supports further evaluation of lapatinib in first-line and early-stage ErbB2-overexpressing breast cancer.
First-Line Gefitinib in Patients With Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer Harboring SomaticEGFRMutations
Authors: Sequist Lecia V. , Martins Renato G. , Spigel David , Grunberg Steven M. , Spira Alexander , Jänne Pasi A. , Joshi Victoria A. , McCollum David , Evans Tracey L. , Muzikansky Alona , Kuhlmann Georgiana L. , Han Moon , Goldberg Jonathan S. , Settleman Jeffrey , Iafrate A. John , Engelman Jeffrey A. , Haber Daniel A. , Johnson Bruce E. , Lynch Thomas J.
Published: May 2008

Purpose

Somatic mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) correlate with increased response in patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). The multicenter iTARGET trial prospectively examined first-line gefitinib in advanced NSCLC patients harboring EGFR mutations and explored the significance of EGFR mutation subtypes and TKI resistance mechanisms.

Patients and Methods

Chemotherapy-naïve patients with advanced NSCLC with ≥ 1 clinical characteristic associated with EGFR mutations underwent direct DNA sequencing of tumor tissue EGFR exons 18 to 21. Patients found to harbor any EGFR mutation were treated with gefitinib 250 mg/d until progression or unacceptable toxicity. The primary outcome was response rate.

Results

Ninety-eight patients underwent EGFR screening and mutations were detected in 34 (35%). EGFR mutations were primarily exon 19 deletions (53%) and L858R (26%) though 21% of mutation-positive cases had less common subtypes including exon 20 insertions, T790M/L858R, G719A, and L861Q. Thirty-one patients received gefitinib. The response rate was 55% (95% CI, 33 to 70) and median progression-free survival was 9.2 months (95% CI, 6.2 to 11.8). Therapy was well tolerated; 13% of patients had grade 3 toxicities including one grade 3 pneumonitis. Two patients with classic activating mutations exhibited de novo gefitinib resistance and had concurrent genetic anomalies usually associated with acquired TKI resistance, specifically the T790M EGFR mutation and MET amplification.

Conclusion

First-line therapy with gefitinib administered in a genotype-directed fashion to patients with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR mutations results in very favorable clinical outcomes with good tolerance. This strategy should be compared with combination chemotherapy, the current standard of care.
Distinct Clinical and Prognostic Features of Infiltrating Lobular Carcinoma of the Breast: Combined Results of 15 International Breast Cancer Study Group Clinical Trials
Authors: Pestalozzi Bernhard C. , Zahrieh David , Mallon Elizabeth , Gusterson Barry A. , Price Karen N. , Gelber Richard D. , Holmberg Stig B. , Lindtner Jurij , Snyder Raymond , Thürlimann Beat , Murray Elizabeth , Viale Giuseppe , Castiglione-Gertsch Monica , Coates Alan S. , Goldhirsch Aron
Published: May 2008

Purpose

To determine how patients with infiltrating lobular carcinoma (ILC) differ from patients with the more common infiltrating ductal carcinoma (IDC) with regard to patient and tumor factors, local treatment, and patterns of recurrence.

Patients and Methods

Twelve thousand two hundred six breast cancer patients entered onto 15 International Breast Cancer Study Group trials between 1978 and 2002 were categorized as having ILC, IDC, or other/mixed types.

Results

Seven hundred sixty-seven tumors (6.2%) were classified as ILC, 8,607 (70.5%) were classified as IDC, and 2,832 (23.2%) were classified as other. The analysis is limited to the 9,374 patients categorized as either pure IDC or ILC. The median follow-up time was 13 years. Compared with IDC, ILC was associated with older age; larger, better differentiated, and estrogen receptor (ER)–positive tumors; and less vessel invasion. Mastectomy was used more frequently for ILC (P < .01). There was a significant (P < .01) early advantage in disease-free survival and overall survival for the ILC cohort followed by a significant (P < .01) late advantage for the IDC cohort after 6 and 10 years, respectively. Similar patterns were observed in cohorts defined by ER status. ILC was associated with an increased incidence of bone events but a decrease in regional and lung events (all P < .01).

Conclusion

ILC is more than a histologic variant of breast cancer. The diagnosis of ILC carries distinct prognostic and biologic implications.
Econometric Calibration of the Joint Time Assignment–Mode Choice Model
Authors: Munizaga Marcela , Jara-Díaz Sergio , Greeven Paulina , Bhat Chandra
Published: May 2008

This paper describes the derivation and the econometric calibration of a joint time assignment–mode choice model with a microeconomic foundation, to be applied to the TASTI (time assignment travel and income) database. The econometric procedure is a full information maximum likelihood with three nonlinear continuous equations and one discrete choice. We use Lee's transformation [Lee, L. F. 1983. Generalized econometric models with selectivity. Econometrica 51 507–512] to include correlations between the continuous and discrete equations. This allows us to estimate (a) the value of time as a resource or value of assigning time to a pleasurable activity, (b) the value of assigning time to work, and (c) the value of assigning time to travel. We apply the method and obtain reasonable results. Finally, we identify some econometric challenges for further research.
The Second Anniversary of the Constitutionalisation of the French Charter for the Environment: Constitutional and Environmental Implications
Authors: Marrani David
Published: May 2008

The former French president J. Chirac will most likely be remembered for his international standing against the US and domestically, within France, for having initiated a major ‘bill of rights’, the Charter for the Environment, and for its constitutionalisation.
Pursuing Substantive Environmental Justice: The Aarhus Convention as a ‘Pillar’ of Empowerment
Authors: Nadal Carine
Published: May 2008

Adopting a grassroots perspective of environmental justice, this analysis illustrates the untapped potential of the second pillar of the Aarhus Convention to serve as a tool of empowerment, both in terms of fair treatment and meaningful involvement, for those suffering environmental injustice. The author argues that by upholding the general principle of non-discrimination, and by providing opportunities for public participation in decision-making and influencing the substance of the decision, the Convention can ensure fair treatment and meaningful involvement. Overall however, owing to inherent weaknesses and an absence of an environmental justice rationale, the Convention is a weak pillar of empowerment. Pursuit of substantive environmental justice thus demands explicitly contextualising the Convention in the broader framework of grassroots environmental justice.
Hydrogen Content, Preoxidation, and Cooling Scenario Effects on Post-Quench Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Zircaloy-4 and M5® Alloys in LOCA Conditions
Authors: Brachet J.-C. , Vandenberghe-Maillot V. , Portier L. , Gilbon D. , Lesbros A. , Waeckel N. , Mardon J.-P.
Published: May 2008

Previous papers pointed out the influence of long-term service exposures on the thermal-mechanical behavior of Zr alloys in LOCA conditions and, especially, the impact of in-service hydrogen pick-up on post-quench mechanical properties. Moreover, the oxide layer grown under in-service conditions was occasionally expected to have a protective effect against high temperature oxidation. Finally, the oxygen and hydrogen distributions within the prior-β layer appear as a key parameter with regard to the residual ductility of the alloy, especially as a function of the cooling scenario. The objective of the study presented here was to further investigate the influence of these parameters on the post-quench mechanical properties. Unirradiated Zircaloy-4 and M5® cladding tubes were consequently hydrided up to different concentration levels, then oxidized at high temperature (1000–1200°C) up to at least 10 % measured equivalent cladding reacted (ECR) and directly quenched to room temperature (RT). Ring compression tests (RCT), 3-point bending tests (3PBT) at RT and 135°C, as well as impact tests at RT were then performed to determine the evolution of the post-quench mechanical properties of Zircaloy-4 and M5® alloys with H content. Similarly, specimens preoxidized out-of-pile were also submitted to high temperature oxidation and direct quench, as well as to post-quench ring compression tests. Along with calculations of oxygen diffusion in the metal, results from those tests allowed us to estimate the assumed protective effect of the pretransient oxide layer. Finally, using specimens in the as-received condition or hydrided to typical end-of-life H contents, the effect of temperature history after oxidation at 1200°C was studied, i.e., at the end of the high temperature isothermal oxidation, samples were either submitted to direct quenching to RT or to slow cooling to different final quenching temperatures. It was thus demonstrated that the cooling scenario has a significant impact on the post-quench mechanical properties. All test samples were investigated by means of fractographic examinations to assess the type of failure mode. Moreover, a deep metallurgical analysis has been performed: SEM and image analysis were used for accurate phase thickness measurements, nuclear and electron microprobes for quantitative mapping of hydrogen and oxygen. It proved that the oxygen and hydrogen contents and their distribution in the prior-β layer have a first-order influence on the residual ductility. From all the results obtained on as-received and hydrided samples directly quenched from the oxidation temperature, it was then possible to derive a relationship between structural parameters, i.e., oxygen and hydrogen contents and thickness of the prior-β layer, and the post-quench impact properties at RT.
Regulatorische Prinzipien und Systemanalyse der bakteriellen Chemotaxis (Regulatory Principles and Systems Analysis of Bacterial Chemotaxis)
Authors: Bartholomé Kilian , Timmer Jens
Published: May 2008

Biologische Systeme müssen ihre Funktion auch unter variablen Umweltbedingungen robust ausführen, da Fehlfunktionen zu Krankheiten oder sogar zum Tod führen können. Wir zeigen, dass bei der Signaltransduktion der bakteriellen Chemotaxis die von der Natur realisierte Topologie im Vergleich zu einfacheren, hypothetischen Netzwerkstrukturen robuster ist. Desweiteren zeigen wir, welche Designprinzipien erfüllt sein müssen, um gegen korrelierte bzw. unkorrelierte Schwankungen in den Proteinkonzentrationen robust zu sein.
Modellierung und Modellanalyse in der Systembiologie am Beispiel der Kohlenhydrataufnahme bei Escherichia coli (Modeling in Systems Biology)
Authors: Kremling Andreas
Published: May 2008

In der Systembiologie gewinnt die Entwicklung und Analyse von mathematischen Modellen immer mehr an Bedeutung. Die Erfolge bei der messtechnischen Erfassung der Genexpression und bei Metaboliten führen zu einer großen Fülle von Informationen über biologische Phänomene und erlauben es sehr detaillierte Modelle zur Beschreibung von Stoffwechsel, Signaltransduktion und Genexpression aufzustellen. Mathematische Modelle, die eine quantitative Beschreibung und Analyse ermöglichen, haben dabei eine entscheidende Bedeutung. Der Beitrag stellt am Beispiel der Kohlenhydrataufnahme bei Escherichia coli unterschiedliche Modellvarianten vor, die zur Bearbeitung spezifischer Fragestellungen entwickelt wurden.
Ein Beitrag zu einer Theorie lebender Zellen (A Contribution towards a Theory of Living Cells)
Authors: Wolkenhauer Olaf , Hofmeyr Jan-Hendrik S.
Published: May 2008

Der folgende Beitrag beschreibt die Systembiologie als eine Verbindung der Systemtheorie mit der Zellbiologie. Die Rolle der Modellierung in der Beschreibung lebender Zellen wird diskutiert. Als Beispiel wird ein abstraktes Mehrebenenmodell einer Zelle entwickelt. Es wird gezeigt, dass eine Ebene elementarer zellulärer Prozesse zur Realisierung von Zellfunktionen und eine Koordinationsebene ausreichend sind, um ein System zu schaffen, das mit Bezug auf Wirkursachen kausal geschlossen ist. Diese Form der Selbstorganisation wird dabei als grundlegendes Kriterium zur Unterscheidung lebender Systeme wie Zellen und Organismen von Maschinen und Computern aufgefasst. Die kausale Geschlossenheit der Zelle wird durch die Definition des Zellmodells als kartesisch geschlossene Kategorie möglich. Es ergibt sich dann die Schlussfolgerung, dass Computersimulationen von Differentialgleichungen zwar zelluläre Prozesse nachbilden können, aber nicht diesen Aspekt der kausalen Geschlossenheit. Der Beitrag endet mit der Diskussion über die Rolle der Systemtheorie in den Lebenswissenschaften.
Genome Integrity Is Regulated by theCaenorhabditis elegansRad51D Homologrfs-1
Authors: Yanowitz Judith L
Published: May 2008

Multiple mechanisms ensure genome maintenance through DNA damage repair, suppression of transposition, and telomere length regulation. The mortal germline (Mrt) mutants in Caenorhabditis elegans are defective in maintaining genome integrity, resulting in a progressive loss of fertility over many generations. Here I show that the high incidence of males (him)-15 locus, defined by the deficiency eDf25, is allelic to rfs-1, the sole rad-51 paralog group member in C. elegans. The rfs-1/eDf25 mutant displays a Mrt phenotype and mutant animals manifest features of chromosome fusions prior to the onset of sterility. Unlike other Mrt genes, rfs-1 manifests fluctuations in telomere lengths and functions independently of telomerase. These data suggest that rfs-1 is a novel regulator of genome stability.
Evidence on the Molecular Basis of the Ac/ac Adaptive Cyanogenesis Polymorphism in White Clover (Trifolium repens L.)
Authors: Olsen Kenneth M , Hsu Shih-Chung , Small Linda L
Published: May 2008

White clover is polymorphic for cyanogenesis, with both cyanogenic and acyanogenic plants occurring in nature. This chemical defense polymorphism is one of the longest-studied and best-documented examples of an adaptive polymorphism in plants. It is controlled by two independently segregating genes: Ac/ac controls the presence/absence of cyanogenic glucosides; and Li/li controls the presence/absence of their hydrolyzing enzyme, linamarase. Whereas Li is well characterized at the molecular level, Ac has remained unidentified. Here we report evidence that Ac corresponds to a gene encoding a cytochrome P450 of the CYP79D protein subfamily (CYP79D15), and we describe the apparent molecular basis of the Ac/ac polymorphism. CYP79D orthologs catalyze the first step in cyanogenic glucoside biosynthesis in other cyanogenic plant species. In white clover, Southern hybridizations indicate that CYP79D15 occurs as a single-copy gene in cyanogenic plants but is absent from the genomes of ac plants. Gene-expression analyses by RT–PCR corroborate this finding. This apparent molecular basis of the Ac/ac polymorphism parallels our previous findings for the Li/li polymorphism, which also arises through the presence/absence of a single-copy gene. The nature of these polymorphisms may reflect white clover's evolutionary origin as an allotetraploid derived from cyanogenic and acyanogenic diploid progenitors.
Hsp90/Hsp70 Chaperone Machine Regulation of the Saccharomyces MAL-Activator As Determined in Vivo Using Noninducible and Constitutive Mutant Alleles
Authors: Ran Fulai , Bali Mehtap , Michels Corinne A
Published: May 2008

The Hsp90/Hsp70 chaperone machine is an essential regulator of cell growth and division. It is required for activation of select client proteins, chiefly protein kinases and transcription activators and thus plays a major role in regulating intracellular signaling and gene expression. This report demonstrates, in vivo, the association of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae maltose-responsive transcription activator Mal63 (MAL-activator) with the yeast Hsp70 (Ssa1), Hsp90 (Hsp82), and Hop (Sti1) homologs, using a collection of inducible, constitutive, and noninducible alleles. Each class of mutant activator forms a distinctly different stable multichaperone complex in the absence of maltose. Inducible Mal63p associates with Ssa1, Hsp82, and Sti1 and is released in the presence of maltose. Noninducible mal63 mutant proteins bind to Ssa1 alone and do not stably associate with Hsp82 or Sti1. Constitutive MAL-activators bind well to Hsp82 and poorly to Ssa1 and Sti1, but deletion of STI1 restores Ssa1 binding. Taken together, Mal63p regulation requires the formation of Hsp90/Hsp70 subcomplexes comparable to, yet distinct from those observed with previously characterized Hsp90 clients including glucocorticoid receptor and yeast Hap1p. Thus, comparative studies of different client proteins highlight functional diversity in the operation of the Hsp90/Hsp70 chaperone machine.
High Rates of “Unselected” Aneuploidy and Chromosome Rearrangements intel1 mec1Haploid Yeast Strains
Authors: Vernon Michael , Lobachev Kirill , Petes Thomas D
Published: May 2008

The yeast TEL1 and MEC1 genes (homologous to the mammalian ATM and ATR genes, respectively) serve partially redundant roles in the detection of DNA damage and in the regulation of telomere length. Haploid yeast tel1 mec1 strains were subcultured nonselectively for ∼200 cell divisions. The subcultured strains had very high rates of chromosome aberrations: duplications, deletions, and translocations. The breakpoints of the rearranged chromosomes were within retrotransposons (Ty or δ-repeats), and these chromosome aberrations nonrandomly involved chromosome III. In addition, we showed that strains with the hypomorphic mec1-21 allele often became disomic for chromosome VIII. This property of the mec1-21 strains is suppressed by a plasmid containing the DNA2 gene (located on chromosome VIII) that encodes an essential nuclease/helicase involved in DNA replication and DNA repair.
Mechanisms of Rad52-Independent Spontaneous and UV-Induced Mitotic Recombination inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Coïc Eric , Feldman Taya , Landman Allison S , Haber James E
Published: May 2008

In wild-type diploid cells, heteroallelic recombination between his4A and his4C alleles leads mostly to His+ gene conversions that have a parental configuration of flanking markers, but ∼22% of recombinants have associated reciprocal crossovers. In rad52 strains, gene conversion is reduced 75-fold and the majority of His+ recombinants are crossover associated, with the largest class being half-crossovers in which the other participating chromatid is lost. We report that UV irradiating rad52 cells results in an increase in overall recombination frequency, comparable to increases induced in wild-type (WT) cells, and surprisingly results in a pattern of recombination products quite similar to RAD52 cells: gene conversion without exchange is favored, and the number of 2n − 1 events is markedly reduced. Both spontaneous and UV-induced RAD52-independent recombination depends strongly on Rad50, whereas rad50 has no effect in cells restored to RAD52. The high level of noncrossover gene conversion outcomes in UV-induced rad52 cells depends on Rad51, but not on Rad59. Those outcomes also rely on the UV-inducible kinase Dun1 and Dun1's target, the repressor Crt1, whereas gene conversion events arising spontaneously depend on Rad59 and Crt1. Thus, there are at least two Rad52-independent recombination pathways in budding yeast.
Caenorhabditis elegansGenes Required for the Engulfment of Apoptotic Corpses Function in the Cytotoxic Cell Deaths Induced by Mutations inlin-24andlin-33
Authors: Galvin Brendan D , Kim Saechin , Horvitz H Robert
Published: May 2008

Two types of cell death have been studied extensively in Caenorhabditis elegans, programmed cell death and necrosis. We describe a novel type of cell death that occurs in animals containing mutations in either of two genes, lin-24 and lin-33. Gain-of-function mutations in lin-24 and lin-33 cause the inappropriate deaths of many of the Pn.p hypodermal blast cells and prevent the surviving Pn.p cells from expressing their normal developmental fates. The abnormal Pn.p cells in lin-24 and lin-33 mutant animals are morphologically distinct from the dying cells characteristic of C. elegans programmed cell deaths and necrotic cell deaths. lin-24 encodes a protein with homology to bacterial toxins. lin-33 encodes a novel protein. The cytotoxicity caused by mutation of either gene requires the function of the other. An evolutionarily conserved set of genes required for the efficient engulfment and removal of both apoptotic and necrotic cell corpses is required for the full cell-killing effect of mutant lin-24 and lin-33 genes, suggesting that engulfment promotes these cytotoxic cell deaths.
Degradation of Functional Triose Phosphate Isomerase Protein UnderliessugarkillPathology
Authors: Seigle Jacquelyn L , Celotto Alicia M , Palladino Michael J
Published: May 2008

Triose phosphate isomerase (TPI) deficiency glycolytic enzymopathy is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that remains poorly understood. The disease is caused exclusively by specific missense mutations affecting the TPI protein and clinically features hemolytic anemia, adult-onset neurological impairment, degeneration, and reduced longevity. TPI has a well-characterized role in glycolysis, catalyzing the isomerization of dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P); however, little is known mechanistically about the pathogenesis associated with specific recessive mutations that cause progressive neurodegeneration. Here, we describe key aspects of TPI pathogenesis identified using the TPIsugarkill mutation, a Drosophila model of human TPI deficiency. Specifically, we demonstrate that the mutant protein is expressed, capable of forming a homodimer, and is functional. However, the mutant protein is degraded by the 20S proteasome core leading to loss-of-function pathogenesis.
Tidal Volume Threshold for Colorimetric Carbon Dioxide Detectors Available for Use in Neonates
Authors: Garey Donna M. , Ward Raymond , Rich Wade , Heldt Gregory , Leone Tina , Finer Neil N.
Published: May 2008

OBJECTIVE. Colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors are used for confirmation of endotracheal intubation. The colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors that are used for neonates are labeled for use with infants and small children >1 and <15 kg. The objective of this study was to determine the minimal tidal volume that causes a breath-to-breath color change on 2 colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors.

METHODS. Using an artificial-lung model, we determined the tidal volume threshold of 2 colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors (Pedi-Cap [Nellcor, Pleasanton, CA] or Mini StatCO2 [Mercury Medical, Clearwater, FL]) during ventilation with a T-piece resuscitator or neonatal ventilator. Digital video recordings of the colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors were made during 20 seconds of ventilation at each tidal volume. Seven clinicians who were blinded to the tidal volume reviewed the videos in random order and graded the color change to determine adequacy for clinical application.

RESULTS. The Mini StatCO2 tidal volume threshold was 0.83 mL, and the Pedi-Cap tidal volume threshold was 1.08 mL.

CONCLUSIONS. The lung model revealed that the tidal volume threshold for the tested colorimetric carbon dioxide detectors is less than the expected tidal volume of a 400-g infant and suggests that these devices are appropriate for use with any neonate to confirm intubation.
Molecular characterisation of infectious bursal disease viruses isolated in recent acute outbreaks in Solvenia
Authors: Zorman Rojs Olga , Krapež Uroš , Slavec Brigita , Mankoč Sara , Jurišič-Cizerl Rahela , Barlič-Maganja Darja
Published: May 2008

In 2004 and then in 2006 several outbreaks of infectious bursal disease (IBD) were reported in broiler and broiler breeder flocks in Slovenia. In this report ten recently emerged IBD viruses (IBDV) were characterised by sequence analysis of the VP2 hypervariable region and compared to previous Slovene IBDV strains from 1995/1996 and to some representative serotype 1 IBDV strains of different pathotypes. On the basis of nucleotide and amino acid identities, phylogenetic analyses and the presence of very virulent IBDV (vvIBDV) conserved amino acid substitutions, all Slovene isolates from recent outbreaks were identified as vvIBDV. Although some unique nucleotide exchanges and amino acid substitutions have been observed, the results of this study indicated that recent vvIBDV isolates are closely related with those from outbreaks in the 1990s. However, acute IBD has not been reported in commercial flocks in Slovenia for some years. This could lead to the conclusion that poor biosecurity and relaxed vaccination could be responsible for the re-emergence of vvIBDV.