bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posttranslational Nitration of Tyrosine Residues Modulates Glutamate Transmission and Contributes to N-Methyl-D-aspartate-Mediated Thermal Hyperalgesia
Authors: Muscoli Carolina , Dagostino Concetta , Ilari Sara , Lauro Filomena , Gliozzi Micaela , Bardhi Erlisa , Palma Ernesto , Mollace Vincenzo , Salvemini Daniela
Published: June 2013

Activation of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is fundamental in the development of hyperalgesia. Overactivation of this receptor releases superoxide and nitric oxide that, in turn, forms peroxynitrite (PN). All of these events have been linked to neurotoxicity. The receptors and enzymes involved in the handling of glutamate pathway—specifically NMDARs, glutamate transporter, and glutamine synthase (GS)—have key tyrosine residues which are targets of the nitration process causing subsequent function modification. Our results demonstrate that the thermal hyperalgesia induced by intrathecal administration of NMDA is associated with spinal nitration of GluN1 and GluN2B receptor subunits, GS, that normally convert glutamate into nontoxic glutamine, and glutamate transporter GLT1. Intrathecal injection of PN decomposition catalyst FeTM-4-PyP5+prevents nitration and overall inhibits NMDA-mediated thermal hyperalgesia. Our study supports the hypothesis that nitration of key proteins involved in the regulation of glutamate transmission is a crucial pathway used by PN to mediate the development and maintenance of NMDA-mediated thermal hyperalgesia. The broader implication of our findings reinforces the notion that free radicals may contribute to various forms of pain events and the importance of the development of new pharmacological tool that can modulate the glutamate transmission without blocking its actions directly.
Introduction to Leonhard Lapin's “Objective
Art”
Authors: Kurg Andres
Published: June 2013

Leonhard Lapin's “Objective Art” was written for “Event Harku '75. Objects, Concepts” – an exhibtion and an accompanying symposium on the premises of the Institute of Experimental Biology in Harku, near Tallinn, Estonia, in December 1975. Objective art, in the artist's mind, answered to the industrialization and urbanization of the late 20th century, to the growing significance of not only mechanical but also electronic machines in everyday life, and to the emergence of the so-called artificial environment. Rather than representing this environment, new art had to intervene in it or even produce it. Lapin's call was quite different from other reactions to the changing postindustrial environment in the mid 1970s in the Soviet Union in that instead of active intervention many of them proposed withdrawal as the most appropriate tactics to resist the grim surrounding reality.
Do Crises Catalyze Creative Destruction? Firm-level Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Hallward-Driemeier Mary , Rijkers Bob
Published: June 2013

Using Indonesian manufacturing census data (1991–2001), this paper rejects the hypothesis that the East Asian crisis unequivocally improved the reallocative process. The correlation between productivity and employment growth did not strengthen, and the crisis induced the exit of relatively productive firms. The attenuation of the relationship between productivity and survival was stronger in provinces with comparatively lower reductions in minimum wages, but not due to reduced entry, changing loan conditions, or firms connected to the Suharto regime suffering disproportionately. On the bright side, firms that entered during the crisis were relatively more productive, which helped mitigate the reduction in aggregate productivity.
The Post-Colonial Refugee, Dublin II, and the End of Non-Refoulement
Authors: Juss Satvinder S.
Published: June 2013

Refugee law has been variously conceptualised. Sometimes, as a humanitarian enterprise. Sometimes, as an extension of foreign policy relations based on national self-interests. But can it be better rationalised as a post-colonial enterprise? Does its treatment of Arabs, Afghans and others from the Middle East and North Africa – who are the major consumers of modern refugee law today – tell us something about refugee law? Does it serve to essentialise refugees as the ‘Others’ of the West? If so, can we conceive of a post-colonial refugee? Is modern refugee law an exercise in ‘post-colonialism’, which can be defined as a cultural critique that is opposed to imperialism and Eurocentrism? This essay explores this question through an analysis of the Dublin II Regulation system. This system limits the number of asylum-seekers entering the countries of the European Union. Recent cases confirm that even powerful evidence of individual risk is of no avail and serves as no bar to an asylum-seeker being removed from one European country to another, from where he or she risks being refouled to his/her own country, where he/she may be subjected to inhuman and degrading treatment. This essay tells that story.
A heretical hypothesis: on the beginning of the Codex Justinianus
Authors: Stolte Bernard H.
Published: June 2013

In a recent paper published in this review (79 (2011), p. 253–296), L. Waelkens investigates the problem of the lacunose oldest western manuscripts of the Code, especially at their beginning. He argues that the first 13 titles of the Codex Justinianus had been compiled after the promulgation of its second edition and placed in front of the text of 534, where they did not in fact belong. This successful forgery would have led in various stages to the composition of the Code in its accepted form. This paper sets out to demonstrate that there is overwhelming evidence to the contrary: C. 1,1–13 have always been part of the Codex repetitae praelectionis, as is proven by, inter alia, P.Oxy. 1814, the Collectio XXV Capitulorum, the scholia of the Basilica and, pace Waelkens, even the Collectio Tripartita. The solution of the problem of the western medieval tradition of the Code has to be sought elsewhere.
Estratti di diritto giustinianeo nel Σύνταγμα κατὰ στοιχεῖον di Matteo Blastares
Authors: Angelini Paolo
Published: June 2013

Abstracts of Justinianic law in the Σύνταγμα κατὰ στοιχεῖον of Matthew Blastares. – The Σύν­ταγμα κατὰ στοιχεῖον, redacted in 1334–1335 by the Greek hieromonk Matthaeus Blastares, was composed of secular and canon laws, arranged alphabetically. This article focuses on the previously uninvestigated presence of Justinianic law in the secular dispositions (νόμοι πολι­τικοί) of the Syntagma. The Syntagma, which was a nomokanon and a juridical encyclopedia, was translated and used in Serbia (14th century), Moldovia (15th century) and Georgia (17th century) to introduce into these countries juridical systems based on Justinianic law, more than 1000 years after the redaction of the Corpus Iuris Civilis. The question about which Byzantine juridical compilations have been used to redact this juridical work has not yet been answered and the article could help to shed light on this aspect through highlighting the work’s references to the Basilics, the Prochiron and the Eisagoge.
Biblical Perspectives on Migration and Mission: Contributions from the Old Testament
Authors: Carroll R. M. Daniel
Published: June 2013

Abstract

The growing interest in diaspora mission requires consideration of the pertinent biblical material. This essay focuses on two parts of the Old Testament: the patriarchal narratives of Genesis and Israel’s Law. The former introduces the reader to migrant experiences of the people of God and then connects these to their call to be a blessing to all the earth. The latter contends that Old Testament Law can serve as a paradigm for diaspora mission today in the form of tangible initiatives on behalf of diaspora peoples, both within the Christian community and beyond.
Migrants as Missionaries, Missionaries as Outsiders: Reflections on African Christian Presence in Western Societies
Authors: Hanciles Jehu J.
Published: June 2013

Abstract

This paper makes the case that human migration has played a vital and transformational role in the development and expansion of the Christian movement throughout its history. But it mainly focuses on the unprecedented rise of global migratory flows in the last four to five decades to explicate this link. According to recent data, Christians account for almost half of all international migrants. This, combined with the predominance of south-north migration, explains the remarkable rise of immigrant Christian churches (or communities) in many Western societies. While many of these immigrant Christian communities and their pastors exhibit strong missionary consciousness and commitment, they encounter formidable challenges in the area of cross-cultural outreach. These stem from complex factors, including racial rejection, widespread anti-immigrant sentiments, and aggressive secularism. But this paper argues that perhaps the most significant obstacle stems from the disengagement and rejection that Christian immigrants experience in their encounter with homegrown churches. A brief examination of the key link between human migration and biblical faith is used as a basis for reflections on the challenges that confront African immigrant churches in Western societies. Five such challenges are highlighted and biblical insights (from Acts 6) are presented.
Middle East Peacekeeping Operations after Peace Accords on the Syria and Lebanon Tracks
Authors: Hylton Judy
Published: June 2013

From a practitioner perspective, the study explores what the three regional peacekeeping missions – UNDOF, UNIFIL and UNTSO - may do ‘the day after’ peace accords were in place, relative to potential security arrangements on the Syria and Lebanon tracks. The inquiry looks at the ‘mechanics’ of the security implementation system after peace accords are in place; the role of the UN in assisting peace implementation and potential improvements; the future validity of prior negotiation positions and the possible effect of seminal transitions in the Middle East, prior to an outcome of the Syria conflict. As an example, the study considers the experience of Egypt after the peace treaty with Israel, and the security arrangements in the Sinai. The study finds that the traditional peacekeeping or military monitoring operations are well-suited to post-accord security arrangement facilitation, and highlights the primary value of traditional peacekeeping missions as confidence-building mechanisms, supporting the development of state relationships.
A taxonomic revision of Neobuprestis Kerremans (Coleoptera : Buprestidae) with the description of a new genus and two new species
Authors: LEVEY B. , BELLAMY C. L.
Published: June 2013

The genus Neobuprestis Kerremans 1903 is redefined and a new genus Burnsiellus gen. n. is defined. The putative rela-tionships of Neobuprestis and Burnsiellus gen. n. are discussed. A key to the species of the two genera are provided. Bal-thasarella Obenberger 1958 is made a subgenus of Neobuprestis and its type species B. melandryoides Obenberger 1958 is synonymised with Strigoptera frenchi Blackburn 1892. Strigoptera marmorata Blackburn (1892), Neobuprestis albos-parsa Carter (1924), Neobuprestis trisulcata Carter (1932) are transferred to Burnsiellus gen. n. from Neobuprestis.Two new species are described: Neobuprestis (Balthasarella) williamsi sp. n., Burnsiellus lobatum sp.n.
Ramazzottius thulini (Pilato, 1970) bona species and description of Ramazzottius libycus sp. nov. (Eutardigrada, Ramazzottidae)
Authors: PILATO GIOVANNI , D’URSO VERA , LISI OSCAR
Published: June 2013

Comparing the type series of Ramazzottius thulini with specimens of Ramazzottius oberhaeuseri, from the locus typicus, we confirmed there are morphological and metric differences between these two species. This evidence convinced us that R. thulini should be considered a bona species. A new species, Ramazzottius libycus sp. nov., is also described. Ramaz-zottius libycus sp. nov. differs from R. oberhaeuseri in having more slender internal claws I–III and anterior claws IV, and other metric differences relative to all claws. The new species differs from R. thulini in details of the cuticular ornamen-tation, stylet supports inserted on the buccal tube in a slightly more caudal position, internal claws slightly different in shape, and some metric differences relative to all claws. It appears R. thulini and R. libycus sp. nov. are sibling species of R. oberhaeuseri and therefore the authors expect that there are other cryptic species included under the R. oberhaeuseri name still awaiting to be recognized and described.
A Retrospective Review of Newborn Screening for Congenital Hypothyroidism and Newborn Thyroid Disease at a Major Medical Center
Authors: Cameo Tamara , Gumer Lindsey Barst , Williams Kristen M. , Gomez Jackie , McMahon Donald J. , Oberfield Sharon E.
Published: June 2013

Objective. To study the frequency of congenital hypothyroidism (CH)/thyroid disorders at a major, urban medical center. Methods. We conducted a retrospective review of a preexisting database for 2007 to 2011. Infants were classified as having CH, secondary/tertiary hypothyroidism, thyroid-binding globulin deficiency, and other types of newborn thyroid dysfunctions. Results. A total of 353 (50%) abnormal newborn screens were found to be normal and 42% were abnormal on repeat. Of the latter, 14% had true CH, 1% had thyroid-binding globulin deficiency, and 27% had other causes of thyroid dysfunction. The 5-year incidence of CH at NYP Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital was significantly greater than in New York City, New York State, and Upstate New York. Conclusion. The incidence of CH and other thyroid dysfunctions were greater in our population for 2007 to 2010, after which there was an unexplained decline. The study underlines the importance of continued newborn screening for thyroid dysfunction.
Alliance for Progress? Multilevel Ambition and Patterns of Cosponsorship in the Argentine House
Authors: Micozzi Juan Pablo
Published: June 2013

How does political ambition affect strategies of cooperation in Congress? What activities do legislators develop with their peers to maximize their career goals? One of the main collaborative activities in a legislature, cosponsorship, has been widely analyzed in the literature as a position taking device. However, most findings have been restricted to environments where ambition is static (i.e., legislators pursuing permanent reelection), which restricts de facto the variety of causes and implications of legislative cooperation. I analyze patterns of cosponsorship as a function of ambition in a multilevel setting where legislators praise subnational executive positions more than a seat in the House. Through the analysis of about 48,000 bills introduced in the Argentine Congress between 1983 and 2007 and the development of a map of political careers, I follow a social networks approach to unfold different patterns of legislative cooperation. Findings show that patterns of cooperation among prospective gubernatorial candidates are strongly positive, while similar effects are not observed at the municipal level.
What Are the Different Types of Principals Across the United States? A Latent Class Analysis of Principal Perception of Leadership
Authors: Urick Angela , Bowers Alex J.
Published: June 2013

Purpose:

Effective styles of principal leadership can help address multiple issues in struggling schools, such as low student achievement and high rates of teacher attrition. Although the literature has nominated certain “idealized” leadership styles as being more or less effective, such as transformational, instructional, and shared instructional leadership, we have little evidence about how principals may or may not choose to practice these styles across U.S. schools.

Research Design:

Latent class analysis was used to identify different types of principals across the United States. We analyzed the 1999-2000 Schools and Staffing Survey as it presents a unique opportunity to study the different types of U.S. principals since it contains leadership measures not found in other national surveys. A final sample of 7,650 public schools and principals was included in the analysis.

Findings:

Instead of idealized leadership styles signifying variations in practice, the differences between types of principals were defined by the degree of principal and teacher leadership. Further, the school and principal context, such as school size, urbanicity, accountability performance, and principal background, predicted the three significantly different principal types: controlling, frequent principal leadership; balkanizing, high degree of leadership shared with teachers; or integrating, frequent principal leadership as well as a high degree of leadership shared with teachers.

Conclusions:

These types suggest that principals simultaneously practice leadership behaviors associated with multiple leadership styles in accordance with their background and school context. These findings provide support for the use of more complex models to assess school leader effectiveness.
A Tale of Two Writing Systems
Authors: Tong Xiuli , Tong Xiuhong , McBride-Chang Catherine
Published: June 2013

This study investigated the rate of school-aged Chinese–English language learners at risk for reading difficulties in either Chinese or English only, or both, among second and fifth graders in Hong Kong. In addition, we examined the metalinguistic skills that distinguished those who were poor in reading Chinese from those who were poor in reading English. The prevalence of poor English readers among children identified to be poor in Chinese word recognition across the five participating schools was approximately 42% at Grade 2 and 57% at Grade 5. Across grades, children who were poor readers of both languages tended to have difficulties in phonological and morphological awareness. Poor readers of English only were found to manifest significantly poorer phonological awareness, compared to those who were poor readers of Chinese only; their average tone awareness score was also lower relative to normally developing controls. Apart from indicating possible dissociations between Chinese first language (L1) word reading and English second language (L2) word reading, these findings suggested that the degree to which different metalinguistic skills are important for reading in different writing systems may depend on the linguistic features of the particular writing system.
From ‘evil eye’ anxiety to the desirability of envy: Status, consumption and the politics of visibility in urban south India
Authors: Dean Melanie
Published: June 2013

Competing motivations characterise consumption practices in contemporary south India. While status-conscious Tamils are desirous of displaying wealth so as to signal kauravam (‘prestige’), such public displays risk eliciting tiruṣṭi (‘evil eye’). Based on field research in urban Tamil Nadu, the article argues that this tension—between the desire to display wealth and signal social status, and the fear that such displays will invite supernatural attack—is being resolved through newfound practices of tiruṣṭi prophylaxis. Prophylactic amulets are used to manage and divert the tiruṣṭi-bearing gazes of onlookers from things of value. The newest amulets of the Tamil Nadu public sphere capitalise upon the eye-catching ability of the normative tiruṣṭi prophylactic to directly index, rather than mask, the social status that protective amulets are deployed to protect. Today, a range of expensive consumer goods are utilised as prophylactics. Because the need to protect oneself from tiruṣṭi can itself be a sign of status, such expensive amulets serve to simultaneously protect and project the prestige of their deployers. Lower-status individuals, however, are policed in their acts of tiruṣṭi prophylaxis. Here, a politics of visibility—with respect to caste, class, gender and skin colour—conditions the ‘appropriateness’ of acts of tiruṣṭi prophylaxis.
Relational Process Ontology
Authors: Stout Margaret , Love Jeannine M.
Published: June 2013

This article presents a Governance Typology comprising philosophical and practical theoretical elements which compose four ideal-types found in dominant Western political theory, what we label Institutional, Holographic, Atomistic, and Fragmented governance types. Then a fifth synthesis type is articulated, Integrative Governance, which is based on relational process ontology derived from alternative sources. The article then makes the argument that Integrative Governance is fitting in terms of the contemporary context and leading edge theory and addresses important critiques of the other governance types. In closing, the article affirms Integrative Governance and argues it is a more fruitful grounding for global governance and a more sustainable future.
Effects of inactivating the agranular or granular insular cortex on the acquisition of the morphine-induced conditioned place preference and naloxone-precipitated conditioned place aversion in rats
Authors: Li Chun-Lu , Zhu Ning , Meng Xiao-Lu , Li Yong-Hui , Sui Nan
Published: June 2013

Recent studies have indicated that the insula underlies affective learning. Although affective learning is well-established in the development of opiate addiction, the role of insula in this context remains unclear. To elucidate the organization of opiate-related affective learning within the insular cortex, we reversibly inactivated each of two major subdivisions of the insula in rats and tested the effects of this inactivation on the acquisition of morphine-induced conditioned place preference (CPP) and conditioned place aversion (CPA) induced by naloxone-precipitated acute morphine withdrawal. Results showed that inactivation of the primary interoceptive posterior granular insula (GI), but not that of the high-order anterior agranular insula (AI), disrupted the acquisition of CPP and that both GI and AI inactivation impaired the acquisition of CPA. These data suggest that the insular cortex is involved in positive and negative affective learning related to opiate addiction. In particular, the GI appears to be critical for both forms of affective learning, whereas the AI is crucial for learning associated with negative affects induced by opiate withdrawal.
Spirituality and Religion Among French Prisoners
Authors: Mandhouj Olfa , Aubin Henri-Jean , Amirouche Ammar , Perroud Nader Ali , Huguelet Philippe
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to describe the role of spirituality and religiousness (SR) among detainees. Thirty detainees from a French short-stay prison were assessed with the World Health Organization Quality of Life–Spirituality Religion and Personal Beliefs questionnaire (WHOQOL-SRPB) and with open questions about SR. Forty percent of detainees described SR as an important way of coping with incarceration and stressful events, as a means of finding inner peace, showing altruism, and gaining the respect of others. SR involvement was associated with reports of decreased suicide risk and of the prevention of future offences. SR appears to be an important coping mechanism and may help the transition to the community following incarceration. This study endorses the view that SR should be considered when treating this population.
Positive Criminology in Practice
Authors: Ronel Natti , Segev Dana
Published: June 2013

The discourse regarding offender rehabilitation has been criticized by various scholars who have claimed that reducing negative causes and managing risk will not automatically prompt positive human development and elements that are associated with desistance. Positive criminology is an innovative concept that challenges the common preoccupation with negative elements, by placing emphasis on human encounters and forces of inclusion that are experienced positively by target individuals and that can promote crime desistance. However, as the concept is relatively new, there are still no guiding principles for the practice of positive criminology that could direct research and the criminal justice system. This article attempts to fill that gap by providing principles that could be practiced by criminal justice personnel and examples of different interventions that reflect positive criminology. The article also provides ideological explanations for adopting the concept of positive criminology in practice.
Effect of pineapple leaf fiber-reinforced thermoplastic starch/poly(lactic acid) green composite
Authors: Smitthipong Wirasak , Tantatherdtam Rattana , Chollakup Rungsima
Published: June 2013

In this article, we investigated the properties of thermoplastic starch (TPS) with pineapple leaf fiber (PALF)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composite compared to both TPS with a PALF composite and TPS/PLA blend. The composite is prepared by a single-screw extruder. It appears that the TPS with PALF/PLA composite gives better mechanical properties and water resistance than the TPS/PLA blend, but it presents the same flow behavior (based on the power law index) as the PLA alone.
Multi-plate freeze concentration: Recovery of solutes occluded in the ice and determination of thawing time
Authors: Gulfo Rafael , Auleda Josep M , Moreno Fabián Leonardo , Ruiz Yolanda , Hernández Eduard , Raventós Mercè
Published: June 2013

The retention of solutes in the ice formed in a falling-film freeze concentrator (multi-plate freeze-concentrator) was analysed. Solutions of fructose, glucose and sucrose and a simulated juice with initial concentrations of 5, 10, 15 and 20 °Brix were freeze concentrated. The ice produced in the four steps of the process retains solutes at levels of 1.0–8.8 °Brix (expressed as solute mass fraction in the ice). The recovery of these solutes during thawing can increase overall system efficiency. All thawing steps were carried out dividing the sample in 10 fractions at 20 ℃. The first thawed fractions showed solute concentrations that were 1.9–3.3 times higher than the mean solute mass fraction in the ice, while the last fractions of ice showed very low levels of retained solutes, less than 0.2 times the mean solute mass fraction in the ice. It was found that fractionated thawing can recover most of the solute content in the ice. The procedure presented in the present study allows the determination of the solute concentration achieved in the various thawing fractions and predicts the thawing time required for a given form factor, melting temperature and initial solute mass fraction in the ice.
Optimization of fat-reduced ice cream formulation employing inulin as fat replacer via response surface methodology
Authors: Pintor Aurora , Severiano-Pérez Patricia , Totosaus Alfonso
Published: June 2013

The use of new ingredients like inulin for fat replacement is of wide application in the food industry. The aim of the present work was to reduce the fat content on ice cream formulations. It was possible to reduce up to 25% of butyric and vegetable fats with 3% of inulin, with good textural and sensory characteristics of the final product. The substitution of fat with inulin increased the ice cream mix viscosity, improved air incorporation, and produced ice cream with soft and homogeneous textures. Color characteristics were not affected by the replacement. Hedonic sensory analysis showed that optimized fat-reduced inulin ice cream was not perceived different to commercial vanilla ice cream.
Cerebral Oximetry and Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Skhirtladze-Dworschak Keso , Dworschak Martin
Published: June 2013

Cerebral oximetry is a Food and Drug Administration–approved technology that allows monitoring of brain oxygen saturation in accessible superficial brain cortex regions, which are amongst the most vulnerable in regard to ischemic or hypoxic injury. Since most oxygen in the area of interest is located in the venous compartment, the determined regional brain oxygen saturation approximately reflects the local balance between oxygen delivery and oxygen consumption. Major systemic alterations in blood oxygen content and oxygen delivery will be accompanied by corresponding changes in regional brain saturation. This systematic review, which is based on a Medline search, focuses on the characteristic changes in regional cerebral oxygen saturation that occur, when global oxygen supply to the brain ceases. It further highlights the potential application of cerebral oximetry in the management of cardiac arrest victims, the predictability of clinical outcome after global cerebral ischemia, and it also indicates possible potentials for the management of cerebral reperfusion after having instituted return of spontaneous circulation.
Attitudinal and Situational Determinants of Self-Service Technology Use
Authors: Oh Haemoon , Jeong Miyoung , Lee Seonjeong (Ally) , Warnick Rodney
Published: June 2013

The authors test an extended technology acceptance model by incorporating two situational and two attitudinal variables as new predictors of self-service technology adoption. The situational variables are waiting line and service complexity, whereas the attitudinal variables are technology trust and technology anxiety. The study employs an experimental approach with hypothetical hotel check-in situations. The authors apply structural equation modeling techniques to provide additional insights into the main effects. They find significant main effects of all situational and attitudinal variables but no interaction effects between the situational and attitudinal variables. The main effects on intention to use self-service technologies occurred primarily through the mediation of perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. The technology acceptance model needs extension to include nontechnology variables as predictors of new technology adoption.
Long-term mortality after admission to hospital for trauma: A review
Authors: Niven Daniel J , Kirkpatrick Andrew W , Ball Chad G , Laupland Kevin B
Published: June 2013

Trauma is associated with significant acute morbidity and mortality. However, advances in the delivery of trauma care have resulted in considerable improvements in the short-term mortality from trauma. Recent studies have shown that survivors of trauma are at significant risk of delayed long-term mortality that is above that expected for a similar uninjured cohort of patients. Few studies have provided a detailed analysis of the determinants of this increased risk of death, and even fewer publications have examined the causes of death in these patients. This information is relevant because an increased number of patients will survive their injuries as acute trauma care continues to improve. It may also highlight opportunities for interventions that reduce the risk of delayed death in a population of patients that is generally young and healthy at the time of injury. As such, this article will review the literature on the long-term mortality rate and its determinants among patients who are hospitalized for severe injuries.
Drinking successfully: Alcohol consumption, taste and social status
Authors: Järvinen Margaretha , Ellergaard Christoph Houman , Larsen Anton Grau
Published: June 2013

The paper analyses the relationship between social status, alcohol consumption and taste, using a Danish company as empirical case. Methodologically as well as theoretically, the paper is inspired by Bourdieu. A social space tied to socioeconomic status and gendered work positions is constructed using specific multiple correspondence analysis. Hereafter, a range of variables measuring alcohol-related practices and preferences are analysed, showing that specific drinking styles and alcohol preferences are associated with specific positions in the company’s status space. An omnivorous drinking style, embracing a broad variety of beverage types, drinking contexts and drinking companions is associated with high positions in the firm, as are specific types of drinks and specific reasons for drinking. The paper discusses drinking patterns as both a reflection of and a contribution to social status differences.
A framework for predicting the non-visual effects of daylight – Part II: The simulation model
Authors: Mardaljevic J , Andersen M , Roy N , Christoffersen J
Published: June 2013

This paper describes a climate-based simulation framework devised to investigate the potential for the non-visual effects of daylight in buildings. It is part 2 of a study where the first paper focused on the formulation of the photobiological underpinnings of a threshold-based model configured for lighting simulation from the perspective of the human non-visual system (e.g. circadian response). This threshold-based model employs a static dose–response curve and instantaneous exposure of daylight at the eye to estimate the magnitude of the non-visual effect as a first step towards a simulation framework that would establish a link between light exposure at the eye in an architectural context and expected effects on the non-visual system. In addition to being highly sensitive to the timing and duration of light exposure, the non-visual system differs fundamentally from the visual system in its action spectrum. The photosensitivity of the retinal ganglion cells that communicate light exposure to the brain is known to be shifted to the blue with respect to the photopic sensitivity curve. Thus the spectral character of daylight also becomes a sensitive factor in the magnitude of the predicted non-visual effect. This is accounted for in the model by approximating ‘yellow’ sunlight, ‘grey’ skylight and ‘blue’ skylight to three distinct Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) illuminant types, and then tracking their ‘circadian-lux’ weighted contributions in the summation of daylight received at the eye. A means to ‘condense’ non-visual effects into a synthesised graphical format for the year, split by periods of the day, is described in terms of how such a format could inform design decisions. The sensitivity of the simulation model’s predictions to prevailing climate and building orientation is demonstrated by comparing results from eight European locations.
Orbiting Data
Authors: Senior Kim , Solomon Yvette
Published: June 2013

In this paper we explore how reanimating a video data sequence with editing and creative software provided an opportunity for the data to speak and to demand new and surprising responses from us. Our data-ing brought new lines and spaces to the fore, through a process of refraction and re-animation which forced a focus on embodied inter-relationships and impeded precipitous analytical thought on the part of the researcher. We note how the aesthetic of the new images evoked awareness of our own part in the production of the object of our research. In particular, our own collegial interchange, punctuated by time and distance due to our respective locations on oppositesides of the globe, opened up a space for data-lingering in the intervening silences and pauses. Our choice of images engenders and reflects our sense of movement between the `I’ and the `we’ in their depiction of students’ learning about space.
Preparation of silica nanospheres and porous polymer membranes with controlled morphologies via nanophase separation
Authors: Lee Jung-Pil , Choi Sinho , Park Soojin
Published: June 2013

We successfully synthesized two different structures, silica nanospheres and porous polymer membranes, via nanophase separation, based on a sol–gel process. Silica sol, which was in situ polymerized from tetraorthosilicate, was used as a precursor. Subsequently, it was mixed with a polymer that was used as a matrix component. It was observed that nanophase separation occurred after the mixing of polymer with silica sol and subsequent evaporation of solvents, resulting in organizing various structures, from random network silica structures to silica spheres. In particular, silica nanospheres were produced by manipulating the mixing ratio of polymer to silica sol. The size of silica beads was gradually changed from micro- to nanoscale, depending on the polymer content. At the same time, porous polymer membranes were generated by removing the silica component with hydrofluoric acid. Furthermore, porous carbon membranes were produced using carbon source polymer through the carbonization process.
N-terminal basic amino acid residues of Beet black scorch virus capsid protein play a critical role in virion assembly and systemic movement
Authors: Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhao Xiaofei , Zhang Yanjing , Niu Shaofang , Qu Feng , Zhang Yongliang , Han Chenggui , Yu Jialin , Li Dawei
Published: June 2013

Background

Beet black scorch virus (BBSV) is a small single-stranded, positive-sense RNA plant virus belonging to the genus Necrovirus, family Tombusviridae. Its capsid protein (CP) contains a 13 amino acid long basic region at the N-terminus, rich in arginine and lysine residues, which is thought to interact with viral RNA to initiate virion assembly.

Results

In the current study, a series of BBSV mutants containing amino acid substitutions as well as deletions within the N-terminal region were generated and examined for their effects on viral RNA replication, virion assembly, and long distance spread in protoplasts and whole host plants of BBSV. The RNA-binding activities of the mutated CPs were also evaluated in vitro. These experiments allowed us to identify two key basic amino acid residues in this region that are responsible for initiating virus assembly through RNA-binding. Proper assembly of BBSV particles is in turn needed for efficient viral systemic movement.

Conclusions

We have identified two basic amino acid residues near the N-terminus of the BBSV CP that bind viral RNA with high affinity to initiate virion assembly. We further provide evidence showing that systemic spread of BBSV in infected plants requires intact virions. This study represents the first in-depth investigation of the role of basic amino acid residues within the N-terminus of a necroviral CP.
DiaSurg 2 trial - surgical vs. medical treatment of insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients with a body mass index between 26 and 35 kg/m2: study protocol of a randomized controlled multicenter trial - DRKS00004550
Authors: Kenngott Hannes G , Clemens Gabriella , Gondan Matthias , Senft Jonas , Diener Markus K , Rudofsky Gottfried , Nawroth Peter P , Büchler Markus W , Fischer Lars , Müller-Stich Beat P
Published: June 2013

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a disease with high prevalence, associated with severe co-morbidities as well as being a huge burden on public health. It is known that glycemic control decreases long-term morbidity and mortality. The current standard therapy for T2DM is medical treatment. Several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) performed in obese patients showed remission of T2DM after bariatric surgery. Recent RCTs have shown bariatric procedures to produce a similar effect in non-morbidly and non-severely obese, insulin-dependent T2DM patients suggesting procedures currently used in bariatric surgery as new therapeutical approach in patients with T2DM. This study aims at investigating whether Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is an efficient treatment for non-severely obese T2DM patients in terms of preventing long-term complications and mortality.

Methods

The DiaSurg 2 trial is a multicenter, open randomized controlled trial comparing RYGB including standardized medical treatment if needed to exclusive standardized medical treatment of T2DM (control group). The primary endpoint is a composite time-to-event endpoint (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, coronary bypass, percutaneous coronary intervention, non-fatal stroke, amputation, surgery for peripheral atherosclerotic artery disease), with a follow-up period of 8 years. Insulin-dependent T2DM patients aged between 30 and 65 years will be included and randomly assigned to one of the two groups. The experimental group will receive RYGB and, if needed, standardized medical care, whereas the control group will receive exclusive standardized medical care, both according to the national treatment guidelines for T2DM. Statistical analysis is based on Cox proportional hazards regression for the intention-to-treat population. Assuming a loss to follow-up rate of 20%, 200 patients will be randomly allocated to the comparison groups. A total sample size of n = 400 is sufficient to ensure 80% power in a two-tailed significance test at alpha = 5%.

Discussion

The DiaSurg2 trial will yield long-term data (8 years) on diabetes-associated morbidity and mortality in patients with insulin-dependent T2DM receiving either RYGB or standardized medical care.

Trial registration

The trial protocol has been registered in the German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00004550.
Viable intrauterine pregnancy after spontaneous bilateral tubal ectopics in a multiparous woman: a case report
Authors: Rani V R Sreeja , Puliyath Geetha
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Bilateral ectopic pregnancies are increasing due to an increase in the incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease and increase in assisted reproductive techniques. Spontaneous conception after bilateral ectopic pregnancies is extremely rare.

Case presentation

A 33-year-old Indian woman presented with ruptured ectopic pregnancy associated with hemoperitoneum for which she underwent a laparotomy. The diagnosis of bilateral ectopic pregnancies was made during surgery. Salpingectomy was done on one side and the other tube was conserved with salpingostomy. Six months after surgery, she conceived spontaneously and a transvaginal ultrasound examination revealed a 5-weeks live intrauterine pregnancy.

Conclusion

A meticulous surgical technique conserving one fallopian tube resulted in subsequent viable intrauterine pregnancy. The approach to such a case along with steps to minimize tubal damage is presented.
Resolution of biliary stricture after living donor liver transplantation in a child by percutaneous trans-hepatic cholangiography and drainage: a case report
Authors: Putzer Gabriel , Paal Peter , Chemelli Andreas P , Mark Walter , Lederer Wolfgang , Wiedermann Franz J
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Intra-hepatic cholestasis arising from biliary strictures is a frequent complication in pediatric patients after liver transplantation. Minimally invasive procedures such as percutaneous drainage placement and balloon dilation are the preferred diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 12-month-old Caucasian boy with biliary atresia who was initially treated with hepatoportoenterostomy. In the following months, he developed biliary cirrhosis, accompanied by cystic bile retention, recurrent bile duct infections and malabsorption. Six months after the initial surgical intervention, he underwent living donor liver transplantation. Within two months, the hepatico-jejunostomy became occluded leading to progressive intra-hepatic cholestasis. Under sonographic guidance, external drainage of bile was accomplished by percutaneous trans-hepatic cholangiography and drainage. In total, our patient underwent 12 interventions under general anesthesia until balloon dilatation of the hepatico-jejunostomy was successfully performed. Finally, our patient’s general condition improved and he gained weight.

Conclusions

Minimally invasive techniques are preferred to surgical revisions and justify even multiple attempts. Interventions under general anesthesia, though not without risks, are still reasonable. Co-operation with parents and multidisciplinary approach to complication management by the involved surgeon, radiologist, pediatrician and anesthesiologist are important.
Mammographic density and survival in interval breast cancers
Authors: Eriksson Louise , Czene Kamila , Rosenberg Lena U , Törnberg Sven , Humphreys Keith , Hall Per
Published: June 2013

Introduction

Mammographic density (MD) is the strongest risk factor for breast cancer. It is also strongly associated with interval cancers (ICs) due to decreased screening sensitivity and possibly by also giving rise to more aggressive tumors. With this information as background, we compared survival in interval and screen-detected cancers, taking MD into consideration.

Methods

The patients were postmenopausal women ages 50 to 74 years who were diagnosed with breast cancer in Sweden between 1993 and 1995. A total of 1,115 women with screen-detected cancers and 285 with ICs had available mammograms. Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare breast cancer-specific survival between interval and screen-detected cancers stratified on MD.

Results

Hazard rates for breast cancer-specific survival were approximately three times higher in ICs than in screen-detected cancers, independent of MD. After adjustment for tumor size, a proxy for time to diagnosis, ICs in nondense breasts still had a statistically significantly increased hazard rate compared to screen-detected cancers in nondense breasts (5-yr survival hazard ratio (HR) 2.43, P = 0.001). In dense breasts, however, there was no longer evidence of a difference in survival between ICs and screen-detected cancers (5-yr survival HR 1.41, P = 0.486).

Conclusions

In nondense breasts, ICs seem to be truly more aggressive than screen-detected cancers. In dense breasts, the poorer prognosis of ICs compared to that of screen-detected cancers may be attributable at least partially to later detection. However, to the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate these relationships, and further studies are warranted to confirm our results.
A multicenter, prospective validation study of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine disseminated intravascular coagulation scoring system in patients with severe sepsis
Authors: Gando Satoshi , Saitoh Daizoh , Ogura Hiroshi , Fujishima Seitaro , Mayumi Toshihiko , Araki Tsunetoshi , Ikeda Hiroto , Kotani Joji , Kushimoto Shigeki , Miki Yasuo , Shiraishi Shin-ichiro , Suzuki Koichiro , Suzuki Yasushi , Takeyama Naoshi , Takuma Kiyotsugu , Tsuruta Ryosuke , Yamaguchi Yoshihiro , Yamashita Norio , Aikawa Naoki ,   Japanese Association for Acute Medicine Sepsis Registry Study Group
Published: June 2013

Introduction

To validate the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine (JAAM) disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) scoring system in patients with severe sepsis, we conducted a multicenter, prospective study at 15 critical care centers in tertiary care hospitals.

Methods

This study included 624 severe sepsis patients. JAAM DIC was scored on the day of diagnosis of severe sepsis (day 1) and day 4. Scores for disease severity and organ dysfunction were also evaluated.

Results

The prevalence of JAAM DIC was 46.8% (292/624), and 21% of the DIC patients were scored according to the reduction rate of platelets. The JAAM DIC patients were more seriously ill and exhibited more severe systemic inflammation, a higher prevalence of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and worse outcomes than the non-DIC patients. Disease severity, systemic inflammation, MODS and the mortality rate worsened in accordance with an increased JAAM DIC score on day 1. The Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated lower 1-year survival in the JAAM DIC patients than in those without DIC (log-rank test P <0.001). The JAAM DIC score on day 1 (odds ratio = 1.282, P <0.001) and the Delta JAAM DIC score (odds ratio = 0.770, P <0.001) were independent predictors of 28-day death. Dynamic changes in the JAAM DIC score from days 1 to 4 also affected prognoses. The JAAM DIC scoring system included all patients who met the International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis overt DIC criteria on day 1. The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis scoring system missed a large number of nonsurvivors recognized by the JAAM scoring system.

Conclusions

The JAAM DIC scoring system exhibits good prognostic value in predicting MODS and poor prognosis in patients with severe sepsis and can detect more patients requiring treatment. Conducting repeated daily JAAM scoring increases the ability to predict the patient's prognosis.