bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Unusual Case of Hemosiderotic Fibrohistiocytic Lipomatous Lesion: Correlation of MRI and Pathologic Findings
Authors: de Vreeze Ronald S. A. , Koops Wim , Haas Rick L. , van Coevorden Frits
Published: June 2008

The spectrum of lipomatous lesions ranges from benign to highly malignant disease. Differentiation between these lesions is important to indicate prognosis and choose the most appropriate treatment. Hemosiderotic fibrohistiocytic lipomatous lesion (HFLL) is a rare subtype of lipomatous tumor. The diagnosis is usually based on clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical information. Where magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a suitable modality to assess fatty tumors, no data is reported on MR imaging of HFLL. Here, the MR characteristics are described in correlation with pathologic findings in a case of HFLL in the left thigh, an unusual location.
Dynamical Models for Computer Viruses Propagation
Authors: Piqueira José R. C. , Cesar Felipe Barbosa
Published: June 2008

Nowadays, digital computer systems and networks are the main engineering
tools, being used in planning, design, operation, and control of
all sizes of building, transportation, machinery, business, and life maintaining
devices. Consequently, computer viruses became one of the most
important sources of uncertainty, contributing to decrease the reliability
of vital activities. A lot of antivirus programs have been developed, but
they are limited to detecting and removing infections, based on previous
knowledge of the virus code. In spite of having good adaptation capability,
these programs work just as vaccines against diseases and are not able
to prevent new infections based on the network state. Here, a trial on
modeling computer viruses propagation dynamics relates it to other notable
events occurring in the network permitting to establish preventive
policies in the network management. Data from three different viruses
are collected in the Internet and two different identification techniques,
autoregressive and Fourier analyses, are applied showing that it is possible
to forecast the dynamics of a new virus propagation by using the data
collected from other viruses that formerly infected the network.
Alpha- and Gamma-Synuclein Proteins Are Present in Cerebrospinal Fluid and Are Increased in Aged Subjects with Neurodegenerative and Vascular Changes
Authors: Mukaetova-Ladinska E.B. , Milne J. , Andras A. , Abdel-All Z. , Cerejeira J. , Greally E. , Robson J. , Jaros E. , Perry R. , McKeith I.G. , Brayne C. , Xuereb J. , Cleghorn A. , Doherty J. , McIntosh G. , Milton I.
Published: June 2008

Background: Disease-specific biomarkers should reflect a fundamental feature of neuropathology and be validated in neuropathologically confirmed cases. Several synaptic proteins have been described in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with dementia. In Lewy body disease α-synuclein is incorporated within Lewy bodies and α-, β- and γ-synucleins in dystrophic neuritis. These pathological changes are expected to be seen in CSF. Methods: A total of 25 CSF post-mortem samples (8 control and 17 subjects with dementia) were used to quantify α- and γ-synucleins and IgG. Results: We describe for the first time the presence of γ-synuclein in CSF. There is an elevation of both α- and γ-synucleins in CSF from elderly individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, Lewy body disease (LBD) and vascular dementia (CVD), compared to normal controls. γ-Synuclein showed a greater elevation in LBD, IgG in CVD. The elevation of α- and γ-synucleins was seen from Braak stage III onwards and remained stable until Braak stage VI. These results were not influenced by age at death or post-mortem delay. Conclusions: The reported increases in α- and γ-synucleins and IgG in the ventricular CSF of individuals with dementia are novel findings. They now need to be explored further using a greater number of cases in each subgroup, using lumbar CSF samples to determine their applicability and relevance to a clinical diagnostic setting. It needs to be established whether using these markers may help to discriminate LBD from other types of neurodegenerative and vascular dementias.
Radiofrequency Puncture of the Fossa Ovalis for Resistant Transseptal Access
Authors: Knecht Sébastien , Jaïs Pierre , Nault Isabelle , Wright Matthew , Matsuo Seiichiro , Madaffari Antonio , Lellouche Nicolas , O'Neill Mark D. , Derval Nicolas , Deplagne Antoine , Bordachar Pierre , Sacher Frederic , Hocini Mélèze , Clémenty Jacques , Haïssaguerre Michel
Published: June 2008

Background—

Transseptal puncture with a conventional mechanical technique can fail because of a resistant interatrial septum. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a new method to cross-resistant septae by transmitting radiofrequency (RF) energy through the transseptal needle.

Methods and Results—

Among 269 consecutive transseptal punctures, 13 (5%) were unsuccessful in 12 different patients (11 men aged 52�12 years) using the conventional Brockenbrough technique. All 12 patients had previously undergone at least 1 transseptal catheterization. The needle position in relation to the fossa ovalis was assessed by fluoroscopy in orthogonal views and was confirmed with contrast injection and by visualizing the characteristic “tenting” of the fossa ovalis. Before using RF energy, there were a median of 6 unsuccessful attempts to perforate the septum conventionally, with 1 pericardial puncture (with a nonsignificant effusion). RF transseptal puncture was then performed by delivering unipolar RF with manual contact between the ablation catheter and the proximal extremity of the needle at the patient’s groin. RF transseptal puncture was achieved at the first attempt in all patients within a median of 1 second (interquartile range, 1 to 4) and without any complication. The only parameter predictive of a septum resistant to conventional puncture was the total number of transseptal catheterizations (3.2�1 versus 1.8�1,
P
<0.001).

Conclusion—

Transmission of RF energy from the ablation catheter up to the tip of the transseptal needle provides an easy and safe method for piercing the fossa ovalis when the conventional approach fails because of a resistant septum.
Feasibility of Real-Time Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Catheter Guidance in Electrophysiology Studies
Authors: Nazarian Saman , Kolandaivelu Aravindan , Zviman Menekhem M. , Meininger Glenn R. , Kato Ritsushi , Susil Robert C. , Roguin Ariel , Dickfeld Timm L. , Ashikaga Hiroshi , Calkins Hugh , Berger Ronald D. , Bluemke David A. , Lardo Albert C. , Halperin Henry R.
Published: June 2008

Background—

Compared with fluoroscopy, the current imaging standard of care for guidance of electrophysiology procedures, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides improved soft-tissue resolution and eliminates radiation exposure. However, because of inherent magnetic forces and electromagnetic interference, the MRI environment poses challenges for electrophysiology procedures. In this study, we sought to test the feasibility of performing electrophysiology studies with real-time MRI guidance.

Methods and Results—

An MRI-compatible electrophysiology system was developed. Catheters were targeted to the right atrium, His bundle, and right ventricle of 10 mongrel dogs (23 to 32 kg) via a 1.5-T MRI system using rapidly acquired fast gradient-echo images (≈5 frames per second). Catheters were successfully positioned at the right atrial, His bundle, and right ventricular target sites of all animals. Comprehensive electrophysiology studies with recording of intracardiac electrograms and atrial and ventricular pacing were performed. Postprocedural pathological evaluation revealed no evidence of thermal injury to the myocardium. After proof of safety in animal studies, limited real-time MRI-guided catheter mapping studies were performed in 2 patients. Adequate target catheter localization was confirmed via recording of intracardiac electrograms in both patients.

Conclusions—

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the feasibility of real-time MRI-guided electrophysiology procedures. This technique may eliminate patient and staff radiation exposure and improve real-time soft tissue resolution for procedural guidance.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast Agent Targeted Toward Activated Platelets Allows In Vivo Detection of Thrombosis and Monitoring of Thrombolysis
Authors: von zur Muhlen C. , von Elverfeldt D. , Moeller J.A. , Choudhury R.P. , Paul D. , Hagemeyer C.E. , Olschewski M. , Becker A. , Neudorfer I. , Bassler N. , Schwarz M. , Bode C. , Peter K.
Published: June 2008

Background—

Platelets are the key to thrombus formation and play a role in the development of atherosclerosis. Noninvasive imaging of activated platelets would be of great clinical interest. Here, we evaluate the ability of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent consisting of microparticles of iron oxide (MPIOs) and a single-chain antibody targeting ligand-induced binding sites (LIBS) on activated glycoprotein IIb/IIIa to image carotid artery thrombi and atherosclerotic plaques.

Methods and Results—

Anti-LIBS antibody or control antibody was conjugated to 1-μm MPIOs (LIBS MPIO/control MPIO). Nonocclusive mural thrombi were induced in mice with 6% ferric chloride. MRI (at 9.4 T) was performed once before and repeatedly in 12-minute-long sequences after LIBS MPIO/control MPIO injection. After 36 minutes, a significant signal void, corresponding to MPIO accumulation, was observed with LIBS MPIOs but not control MPIOs (
P
<0.05). After thrombolysis, in LIBS MPIO-injected mice, the signal void subsided, indicating successful thrombolysis. On histology, the MPIO content of the thrombus, as well as thrombus size, correlated significantly with LIBS MPIO-induced signal void (both
P
<0.01). After ex vivo incubation of symptomatic human carotid plaques, MRI and histology confirmed binding to areas of platelet adhesion/aggregation for LIBS MPIOs but not for control MPIOs.

Conclusions—

LIBS MPIOs allow in vivo MRI of activated platelets with excellent contrast properties and monitoring of thrombolytic therapy. Furthermore, activated platelets were detected on the surface of symptomatic human carotid plaques by ex vivo MRI. This approach represents a novel noninvasive technique allowing the detection and quantification of platelet-containing thrombi.
Abrupt Shift of the Pattern of Diurnal Variation in Stroke Onset With Daylight Saving Time Transitions
Authors: Foerch Christian , Korf Horst-Werner , Steinmetz Helmuth , Sitzer Matthias
Published: June 2008

Background—

Stroke onset shows a pattern of diurnal variation, with a peak in morning hours. Rhythmic changes in blood pressure, hormones, and other parameters have been suggested as underlying mechanisms, but exogenous factors such as increasing physical activity after awakening may also be of relevance. To characterize the impact of external clock changes on the rhythmic variation in stroke onset, this parameter was recorded in patients during transition periods into and out of Daylight Saving Time (DST).

Methods and Results—

The present study was based on a prospective stroke registry in Germany that contains time points of stroke onset from 44 251 patients admitted between 2000 and 2005. To achieve a uniform timeline, time points of stroke onset were set back from Central European Summer Time (CEST) to Central European Time (CET) for patients admitted during DST periods. Compared with the last week before the clock change, transition to or from DST resulted in an immediate shift of stroke onset time points within the first week after the clock change in reference to the uniform timeline (transition from CET to CEST −60 minutes for the time points in both the 25th and 50th percentiles of the diurnal pattern,
P
<0.001; transition from CEST to CET +60 minutes for the time points in both the 25th and 50th percentiles,
P
<0.001; patients pooled on a weekly basis). A significant shift was already present the first and second day after the transitions (ie, Monday and Tuesday).

Conclusions—

Transition to or from DST is coupled with an immediate shift in the time pattern of stroke onset. This strengthens the idea that exogenous factors associated with awakening are important determinants of the pattern of diurnal variation of stroke onset, because entrainment of the human circadian clock within hours is unlikely.
A Relationship Between Insulin Sensitivity and Vasodilation in Women With a History of Preeclamptic Pregnancy
Authors: Lampinen Katja H. , Rönnback Mats , Groop Per-Henrik , Kaaja Risto J.
Published: June 2008

Women with a history of preeclampsia are characterized by vascular dysfunction and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. In the present study we investigated whether insulin sensitivity is decreased in women with previous preeclampsia and whether it is associated with endothelium-dependent and/or -independent vasodilation and/or features of metabolic syndrome. Twenty-eight nonobese women with previous severe preeclampsia and 20 women with a previous normotensive pregnancy were studied 5 to 6 years after the index pregnancy. Vasodilation was measured by venous occlusion plethysmography after intra-arterial infusions of sodium nitroprusside and acetylcholine and insulin sensitivity by the intravenous glucose tolerance test using the minimal model technique. The women were tested for lipid profile, inflammatory status and endothelial activation. Insulin sensitivity did not differ between the groups (
P
=0.24). Insulin sensitivity correlated positively to endothelium-dependent vasodilation only in the patient group in both low (β=0.59;
P
=0.04) and high (β=0.53;
P
=0.04) concentrations of acetylcholine and in a high concentration of sodium nitroprusside (β=0.0007;
P
=0.006). In multivariate analysis, the waist/hip ratio (
P
=0.04) and serum triglycerides (
P
=0.04) had the most effect on insulin sensitivity in the patient group. Gestational weeks at the onset of preeclamptic hypertension (
P
=0.02) and proteinuria (
P
=0.02) associated positively with insulin sensitivity together with first-trimester body mass index (
P
=0.008) and maximum diastolic blood pressure during preeclampsia (
P
=0.005). The present study indicates a relation between insulin sensitivity with vascular dilatory function in women with previous preeclampsia. Furthermore, early onset preeclampsia correlates with impaired insulin sensitivity later in life.
Association of Parental Hypertension With Concentrations of Select Biomarkers in Nonhypertensive Offspring
Authors: Lieb Wolfgang , Pencina Michael J. , Wang Thomas J. , Larson Martin G. , Lanier Katherine J. , Benjamin Emelia J. , Levy Daniel , Tofler Geoffrey H. , Meigs James B. , Newton-Cheh Christopher , Vasan Ramachandran S.
Published: June 2008

Children of parents with hypertension are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure. We hypothesize that circulating concentrations of putative biomarkers (that may play a role in development of high blood pressure) are higher in nonhypertensive offspring of parents with hypertension. We compared concentrations of 4 different biomarkers (urinary albumin:creatinine ratio, circulating C-reactive protein, aldosterone:renin ratio, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) in nonhypertensive Framingham offspring study participants with none (n=233), 1 (n=474), or both (n=322) parents with hypertension. Parental hypertension was defined as onset before age 60 years, based on longitudinal observations of the original Framingham cohort. Serum C-reactive protein concentrations were higher in nonhypertensive offspring with 1 (median: 1.7; Q1 to Q3: 0.8 to 3.6 mg/L) or both parents with hypertension (median: 1.8; Q1 to Q3: 0.7 to 3.6 mg/L) compared with offspring without parental hypertension (median: 1.4; Q1 to Q3: 0.7 to 3.2 mg/L). In multivariable analyses, parental hypertension was associated with higher serum C-reactive protein concentration in offspring (15% increase per parent with hypertension;
P
=0.004). Prospectively, the relation of parental hypertension to longitudinal changes in blood pressure in the nonhypertensive offspring was attenuated on adjustment for C-reactive protein (
P
=0.04 for attenuation). The levels of the other biomarkers evaluated did not significantly differ in offspring according to parental hypertension status. In conclusion, serum C-reactive protein concentrations are higher in nonhypertensive offspring of parents with hypertension. These data suggest that inflammation may partly mediate the familial influences on hypertension risk.
The V433M Variant of the
CYP4F2
Is Associated With Ischemic Stroke in Male Swedes Beyond Its Effect on Blood Pressure
Authors: Fava Cristiano , Montagnana Martina , Almgren Peter , Rosberg Lena , Lippi Giuseppe , Hedblad Bo , Engström Gunnar , Berglund Göran , Minuz Pietro , Melander Olle
Published: June 2008

Cytochrome (CYP) 4A11 and CYP4F2 are responsible for renal production of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, a vasoconstrictor and natriuretic substance. The
CYP4A11
F434S and
CYP4F2
V433M polymorphisms reduce 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid production in vitro. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of these polymorphisms on blood pressure (BP) levels, hypertension prevalence, and risk of incident cardiovascular events in middle-aged Swedes. The polymorphisms were genotyped in the cardiovascular cohort of the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study. The incidence of cardiovascular events (coronary events, n=276; ischemic stroke, n=199) was monitored over 10 years of follow-up. The analysis of BP levels was performed twice: either excluding or including subjects under antihypertensive treatment. In the whole population,
CYP4A11
S434S homozygotes had higher systolic BP, both crude and adjusted for the number of antihypertensive drugs, and higher prevalence of hypertension with respect to F434 carriers. Male, but not female,
CYP4F2
M433 carriers had significantly higher crude and adjusted systolic and diastolic BPs and a trend toward higher hypertension prevalence (
P
=0.06) with respect to V433V homozygotes. After adjustment for major cardiovascular risk factors, the hazard ratio for incident ischemic stroke in male
CYP4F2
M433 carriers was significantly higher with respect to V433V homozygotes (hazard ratio: 1.69; 95% CI: 1.10 to 2.60) even when baseline BP levels and hypertension prevalence were included in the Cox proportional hazard model. A common
CYP4F2
V433M polymorphism might increase the risk of incident ischemic stroke in male subjects only partially through its elevating effect on BP. Additional studies are needed to confirm these data.
Nitric Oxide Formation Is Inversely Related to Serum Levels of Antiangiogenic Factors Soluble Fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1 and Soluble Endogline in Preeclampsia
Authors: Sandrim Valeria C. , Palei Ana C.T. , Metzger Ingrid F. , Gomes Valeria A. , Cavalli Ricardo C. , Tanus-Santos Jose E.
Published: June 2008

Deficient NO formation has been implicated in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. However, no previous study has compared the circulating nitrite concentrations in healthy pregnant women with those found in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Moreover, 2 antiangiogenic factors produced in the placenta (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and soluble endogline) may affect NO formation during pregnancy. Here, we hypothesized that lower concentrations of markers of NO formation exist in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and that inverse relationships exist between these markers and soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 or soluble endogline. In this cross-sectional study, we compared 58 healthy pregnant women with 56 gestational hypertensive subjects and 45 preeclamptic patients. We measured plasma and whole blood nitrite concentrations using an ozone-based chemiluminescence assay and serum soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and soluble endogline concentrations using enzyme immunoassays. Whole blood nitrite levels were significantly lower in gestational hypertensive subjects and preeclamptic patients (−36% and −58%, respectively; both
P
<0.05) compared with healthy pregnant women. The plasma nitrite levels were ≈37% lower in both groups with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy compared with the group with normotensive pregnancies (both
P
<0.05). As expected, we found higher circulating soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and soluble endogline concentrations in preeclampsia compared with gestational hypertensive subjects or with healthy pregnancies (both
P
<0.05). We found negative correlations between antiangiogenic factors and plasma or whole blood nitrite concentrations (Spearman’s
r
from −0.175 to −0.226; all
P
<0.05). Our results show clinical evidence for impaired NO formation in preeclampsia or gestational hypertension. The negative correlations between markers of NO formation and antiangiogenic factors in preeclamptic patients suggest an inhibitory effect for these factors on NO formation.
Reply
Authors: Mellor George
Published: June 2008

In response to the comments of Ardhuin et al., the formulation of Mellor has been revised. Solutions of the model equations are now consistent with known deep-water behavior and agree with the shallow water, analytical–numerical experiment put forward by Ardhuin et al.
Spectrally Resolved Energy Dissipation Rate and Momentum Flux of Breaking Waves
Authors: Gemmrich Johannes R. , Banner Michael L. , Garrett Chris
Published: June 2008

Video observations of the ocean surface taken from aboard the Research Platform FLIP reveal the distribution of the along-crest length and propagation velocity of breaking wave crests that generate visible whitecaps. The key quantity assessed is Λ(c)dc, the average length of breaking crests per unit area propagating with speeds in the range (c, c + dc). Independent of the wave field development, Λ(c) is found to peak at intermediate wave scales and to drop off sharply at larger and smaller scales. In developing seas breakers occur at a wide range of scales corresponding to phase speeds from about 0.1 cp to cp, where cp is the phase speed of the waves at the spectral peak. However, in developed seas, breaking is hardly observed at scales corresponding to phase speeds greater than 0.5 cp. The phase speed of the most frequent breakers shifts from 0.4 cp to 0.2 cp as the wave field develops. The occurrence of breakers at a particular scale as well as the rate of surface turnover are well correlated with the wave saturation. The fourth and fifth moments of Λ(c) are used to estimate breaking-wave-supported momentum fluxes, energy dissipation rate, and the fraction of momentum flux supported by air-entraining breaking waves. No indication of a Kolmogorov-type wave energy cascade was found; that is, there is no evidence that the wave energy dissipation is dominated by small-scale waves. The proportionality factor b linking breaking crest distributions to the energy dissipation rate is found to be (7 ± 3) × 10−5, much smaller than previous estimates.
A Model for Air–Sea Interaction Bulk Coefficient over a Warm Mature Sea under Strong Wind
Authors: Kihara Naoto , Hirakuchi Hiromaru
Published: June 2008

A boundary layer model for evaluating sensible and latent heat fluxes over a mature sea accounting for sea spray effects at wind speeds of up to 28 m s−1 is presented. Heat exchange across the ocean surface controls the development of tropical cyclones, and Emanuel’s theory suggests that the ratio of the exchange coefficient of total enthalpy to the drag coefficient should be greater than 0.75 to maintain the intensity of tropical cyclones. However, traditional bulk algorithms predict a monotonic decrease in this ratio with increasing wind speed, giving a value of less than 0.5 under tropical cyclone conditions. The present model describes a decrease in the ratio with increasing wind speed under weak to moderate winds (<20 m s−1), and a plateau at approximately 0.7 under strong winds (>20 m s−1).
On the Crucial Role of Basin Geometry in Double-Gyre Models of the Kuroshio Extension
Authors: Pierini Stefano
Published: June 2008

The decadal chaotic relaxation oscillation obtained in a recent double-gyre model study of the Kuroshio Extension intrinsic low-frequency variability was found to compare surprisingly well with the real variability of the jet as revealed by altimeter data, despite the high degree of idealization of the model. In this note it is shown that elements of realism in the basin geometry, present in that study and absent in previous double-gyre models applied to the Kuroshio Extension, play a crucial role in shaping the low-frequency variability of the jet, and can explain the good performance of the model. A series of numerical experiments with different basin geometries of increasing degrees of simplicity are analyzed. If the schematic western boundary representing the coastline south of Japan is removed, the strong decadal variability completely disappears and only a very weak periodic oscillation about an elongated state of the jet is found. If the large zonal width of the basin (representing correctly the extension of the North Pacific Ocean) is reduced by a half, then the total meridional Sverdrup transport is reduced by the same factor, and so is the intensity of the Kuroshio and Oyashio western boundary currents: as a result, the modeled Kuroshio Extension is totally unrealistic in shape and is steady. If both simplifications are introduced the resulting jet is, again, totally unrealistic, yielding a weak periodic bimodal cycle. On the basis of these results, two main conclusions are drawn: (i) the introduction of appropriate geometrical elements of realism in double-gyre model studies of the Kuroshio Extension is essential, and (ii) the Kuroshio Extension intrinsic low-frequency variability would be dramatically different if the southwestern coastline of Japan were more meridionally oriented.
Sonographic Detection of Fibromatosis
Authors: Rogers Kenneth J. , Brock Richard R.
Published: June 2008

Abdominal sonography for the detection and evaluation of mass lesions is a common investigative modality. The authors wish to report a case of an unusual retroperitoneal tumor that was detected by ultrasound. The lesion, fibromato sis, was symptomatic but went undiagnosed for over a year, despite two evalua tions which included multiple standard roentgenographic studies. Fibromato sis is discussed.
`Christ Existing as Community': Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Notion of Church
Authors: Leahy Brendan
Published: June 2008

Dietrich Bonhoeffer was one of the great theologians, churchmen, and martyrs of the twentieth century. His ecclesiology is still relevant at a time when the ecclesiology of communion is very much to the fore. This article revisits his school of ecclesiology, reflecting on his seminal works, Santorum Communio and Act and Being, as well as later works such as Life Together, Ethics, and Letters and Papers from Prison. A concern throughout is to highlight the various dimensions of what he means by saying the Church is Christ existing as community. It aims to encourage also reflection on how far this image of the Church as the community of the Risen Christ has been developed in theological reflection, something which is vitally important for the Church as it sets out on its third millennium.
Apostle of the Indwelling Trinity: Elizabeth of the Trinity OCD
Authors: Hunt Anne
Published: June 2008

Given the distinctly doctrinal nature and calibre of her insight into the mystery of the trinitarian indwelling, it is perhaps surprising that few theologians have paid much attention to Elizabeth of the Trinity. A more general neglect of the experiences of the mystics would seem to indicate that theology is either unable or unwilling to probe such experiences for their properly theological significance. In this article we survey the key insights which emerge from Elizabeth's deeply trinitarian mysticism, a mysticism that was also profoundly paschal and eucharistic. Bernard Lonergan provides intellectual tools to probe such experiences and mine their theological significance.
Schmemann's Challenge for Contemporary Roman Catholicism
Authors: O'Donoghue Neil Xavier
Published: June 2008

Alexander Schmemann is widely recognized as systemizing the discipline of `Liturgical Theology.' However, he himself considered his efforts to improve the liturgical celebrations of the Orthodox Churches of North America to be the main achievement of his career. This article analyzes Schmemann's work, focusing in particular on his contribution to practical liturgical renewal, his turbulent relationship with academic theology and his view of Roman Catholic liturgy. Then the argument is advanced that today, 40 years after Vatican II and in the wake of the external renewal of the official liturgical books, Catholics are in a better position to benefit from Schmemann's life work.
The Authority of God and the Act of Faith
Authors: Brownsberger William
Published: June 2008

This article seeks to contribute to the debate about the act of faith, which has been dormant since the late 1950s. The timeliness of this endeavour is suggested by contemporary culture's increasing disconnection from faith and religion. This effort is carried forward through a consideration of the voluntary aspect of the act of faith in which love is presented as both the product of, and the mediator between, the absence and presence of God. The traditional lines of the problem of the act of faith are examined in the thought of St Thomas and in the position adopted by the First Vatican Council with a view to clarifying the notion of the authority of God as that by which one believes. In this, God's authority is shown to have a real connection to the love that believes all things (1 Cor 13:7).
Review Article: Franz Overbeck: A Review of Recent Literature (Part 2)
Authors: Henry Martin
Published: June 2008

The second part of this review article looks at the coherence of Franz Overbeck's (1837—1905) critique of Christianity and its theology. It considers Overbeck's intellectual and personal context in the post-Enlightenment world of the nineteenth century, and seeks to respond in some measure to the searching questions he posed to the Christian tradition.
Post-Conflict Risks
Authors: Collier Paul , Hoeffler Anke , Söderbom Måns
Published: June 2008

Post-conflict societies face two distinctive challenges: economic recovery and reduction of the risk of a recurring conflict. Aid and policy reforms have been found to be effective in economic recovery. In this article, the authors concentrate on the other challenge — risk reduction. The post-conflict peace is typically fragile: nearly half of all civil wars are due to post-conflict relapses. The authors find that economic development substantially reduces risks, but it takes a long time. They also find evidence that UN peacekeeping expenditures significantly reduce the risk of renewed war. The effect is large: doubling expenditure reduces the risk from 40% to 31%. In contrast to these results, the authors cannot find any systematic influence of elections on the reduction of war risk. Therefore, post-conflict elections should be promoted as intrinsically desirable rather than as mechanisms for increasing the durability of the post-conflict peace. Based on these results, the authors suggest that peace appears to depend upon an external military presence sustaining a gradual economic recovery, with political design playing a somewhat subsidiary role. Since there is a relationship between the severity of post-conflict risks and the level of income at the end of the conflict, this provides a clear and uncontroversial principle for resource allocation: resources per capita should be approximately inversely proportional to the level of income in the post-conflict country.
Disarming Fears of Diversity: Ethnic Heterogeneity and State Militarization, 1988—2002
Authors: De Soysa Indra , Neumayer Eric
Published: June 2008

This study investigates whether ethnic and other forms of social diversity affect militarization of society. Recent scholarship in economics finds that high diversity leads to lower provision of public goods. At the same time, many conflict studies find that highly diverse societies face a lower risk of civil war, as opposed to relatively more homogenous populations. The authors explore whether diversity prompts governments to militarize heavily in order to prevent armed conflict, which would then crowd out spending on other public goods in a `guns versus butter' trade-off. Thus, `preventive militarization' would explain both outcomes. Yet the authors find the opposite: higher levels of ethnic diversity predict lower levels of militarization. If high diversity lowers the hazard of civil war, as many find, then it does not happen via preventive militarization. If diverse societies spend less on public goods, then this is not because they are crowded out by security spending. The results support those who suggest that diversity may, in fact, pose a lower security threat to states, since it is highly likely that states facing potential social strife would prioritize state militarization.
Oil and the Probability of Rebel Participation Among Youths in the Niger Delta of Nigeria
Authors: Oyefusi Aderoju
Published: June 2008

This article attempts to explain the determinants of the probability of willingness to join rebel groups by youths in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, using primary data from a sample of 1,337 individuals drawn from 18 communities. A cardinal objective is to test the theoretical explanations of the motivation for rebellion in resource-based societies and to examine the kind of factors that present rebel opportunity. Fifteen variables are used to reflect motives and opportunity for rebellion, and a logit regression model is employed to estimate the probability of willingness to participate. While grievance appears to be pervasive among individuals- and is systemically explained by the data, it is not seen to have high statistical effect on the probability of having a disposition to rebel participation. Rather, individual-and community-level factors that reduce the opportunity cost and risk of participation, or increase the perceived benefits, appear to be more important. The findings suggest that strategies to achieve long-lasting civil peace in Nigeria's Delta must go beyond grievance to address individual-level factors that determine the opportunity cost of participation in violence, such as low income level and low educational attainment, and community-level factors that create an opportunity to profit from extreme forms of civil disobedience, such as low infrastructure. Some of these strategies choices are found also to have the potential to address grievance.
Health Behaviors and Transitions of Physical Disability Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Ying Wu  , McCrone Susan H. , Lai Hong J.
Published: June 2008

This study examined the transitions of disability over 5 years among older adults and the influences of health behaviors on these transitions. Data was obtained from the community cohort of the National Long-Term Care Survey in 1994 ( n = 5,089) and their follow-up data in 1999. Generalized logit regressions revealed that obesity increased the risk of disability. Light drinking decreased the risk of disability. Among disabled individuals, the risk of status decline was higher for those underweight or physically inactive, and those taking vitamin and/or mineral supplements regularly or working on a hobby were less likely to further decline in the disability statuses. In an older population, having more contacts with friends, having regular social activities, and having a body mass index ≥ 25 were beneficial to survival. These findings indicate that older adults may have greater personal control over their lives based on their choices about lifestyles and social connections.
Automatic Generation of High-level Contact State Space between 3D Curved Objects
Authors: Peng Tang  , Jing Xiao
Published: June 2008

Information of high-level, topological contact states is useful and sometimes even necessary for a wide range of applications, from robotic tasks involving compliant motion to virtual prototyping and simulation. This paper addresses how to represent concisely and generate automatically graphs of contact states between 3D curved objects of a broad class, which may include smooth curved or planar surfaces. The approach is sound and complete if the step size of discretization is smaller than a finite threshold. By exploiting topological and geometrical constraints, it is also quite efficient. The implemented examples demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach.
Robust and Efficient Covering of Unknown Continuous Domains with Simple, Ant-Like A(ge)nts
Authors: Osherovich Eliyahu , Yanovki Vladimir , Wagner Israel A. , Bruckstein Alfred M.
Published: June 2008

We propose a new `Mark-Ant-Walk' algorithm for robust and efficient covering of continuous domains by ant-like robots with very limited capabilities. The robots can mark places visited with pheromone marks and sense the level of the pheromone in their local neighborhood. In the case of multiple robots, these pheromone marks can be sensed by all robots and provide the only way of (indirect) communication between the robots. The robots are assumed to be memoryless, and to have no information besides that mentioned above. Despite the robots' simplicity we show that they are able, by running a very simple rule of behavior, to ensure efficient covering of arbitrary connected domains, including non-planar and multidimensional domains. The novelty of our algorithm lies in the fact that, unlike previously proposed methods, our algorithm works on continuous domains without relying on some induced underlying graph effectively reducing the problem to a discrete case of graph covering. In addition, we demonstrate various benefits of our algorithm such as ability to cope with arbitrary initial pheromone profile and a bounded constant time between two successive visits of the robot at the same location, making it suitable for patrolling. Finally, we provide a new theoretical bound on covering time of a wide family of such mark and walk algorithms.
Self-Motions of General 3-

R

PR Planar Parallel Robots
Authors: Briot Sébastien , Arakelian Vigen , Bonev Ilian A. , Chablat Damien , Wenger Philippe
Published: June 2008

We study the kinematic geometry of general 3-RPR planar parallel robots with actuated base joints. These robots, while largely overlooked, have simple direct kinematics and large singularity-free workspace. Furthermore, their kinematic geometry is the same as that of a newly developed parallel robot with SCARA-type motions. Starting from the direct and inverse kinematic model, the expressions for the singularity loci of 3-RPR planar parallel robots are determined. Then, the global behavior at all singularities is geometrically described by studying the degeneracy of the direct kinematic model. Special cases of self-motions are then examined and the degree of freedom gained in such special configurations is kinematically interpreted. Finally, a practical example is discussed and experimental validations performed on an actual robot prototype are presented.
Structuring silence: asbestos and biomedical research in Britain and South Africa
Authors: Braun Lundy
Published: June 2008

Over the last quarter of the twentieth century, asbestos-induced diseases began to attract widespread attention as a result of labour activism, media coverage, government regulation, scientific research and extensive litigation in North America and Europe. The consequences of asbestos mining and manufacture in producer countries, such as South Africa, where the multinational industry operated, however, remained largely invisible internationally. Historians of the asbestos industry have demonstrated that suppression and manipulation of scientific knowledge played a central role in the industry's efforts to escape accountability. What has been neglected are the ways in which mainstream asbestos researchers in the early twentieth century separated the physiological from the social context of disease in both the metropole and the colonies, thereby narrowing understandings of disease causality. It is argued here that narrow concepts of disease allowed for limited visibility and, in Britain, fostered prevention policies based on technical `solutions'; whereas, in the racially segregated society of South Africa, a narrow notion of causality rendered asbestos-induced diseases almost completely invisible — as they still are today.
Book Review Essay: Economic Life beyond Capital
Authors: Westra Richard
Published: June 2008

Questions of the institutional configuring of post-capitalist economies and the transformatory political agency that will rise to the challenge of bringing about post-capitalist social change are at the center of current debate over socialism. This essay reviews recent writings in this important area of thought.
Book Review Essay: The Battle on Foundations and Its Neglected Issues
Authors: Reati Angelo
Published: June 2008

Reviewing a recent collection of readings on the controversy between post-Keynesians and neoclassicals on the foundations of political economy, this essay attempts to assess the debate and comments on the controversial question of reswitching.
Is Anything Worth Keeping in Microeconomics?
Authors: Benicourt Emmanuelle , Guerrien Bernard
Published: June 2008

Microeconomics' notions of “market supply” and “market demand” do not exist in real-world markets. Its models give a central place to equilibria, implying that they are predictions. It distracts from more essential aspects of economic behavior and exchange and encourages inventing absurd tales, especially concerning production. We should consider society as it is organized, with different social groups, norms, and customs, and then concentrate on decision making and choice.
Failure to develop multiple sclerosis in patients with neurologic symptoms without objective evidence
Authors: Boster A , Caon C , Perumal J , Hreha S , Zabad R , Zak I , Tselis A , Lisak R , Khan O
Published: June 2008

Background

Many patients referred to multiple sclerosis (MS) centers with symptoms suggestive of MS are found to have normal neurologic examinations, normal or non-specific brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan findings, and normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Persistent symptoms often lead to multiple consultations and repeated diagnostic investigations. We performed a study to evaluate the diagnostic utility of repeated evaluations in patients with normal initial assessments and persistent neurologic symptoms.

Methods

143 patients were evaluated initially and 109 returned for a second evaluation after a mean interval of 4.4 years.

Results

All 143 patients had normal initial examinations, brain MRI scans, screening blood tests, and CSF studies. Spinal cord imaging was normal in all patients tested (cervical cord, n = 126; 88.1%; thoracic cord, n = 58; 40.6%). Evoked potential studies were abnormal in a small percentage of patients: visual evoked potentials, VEP (8.1%), somatosensory evoked potentials, SSEP (4.9%), and brainstem auditory evoked potentials, BAEP (2.8%). All follow-up patients ( n = 109) had normal examinations and MRI scans. Repeat CSF studies ( n = 35; 32.1%) and spinal cord imaging (cervical cord n = 57; 52.3%; thoracic cord n = 32; 29.4%) were normal in all follow-up patients tested. No patients at initial presentation or at follow-up fulfilled diagnostic criteria for MS.

Conclusions

Patients and clinicians may be reassured that persistent neurologic symptoms in the absence of objective clinical evidence do not lead to the development of MS. Costly serial investigations should be carefully considered, particularly in the presence of normal neurologic examination at follow-up.
Use of health care services and satisfaction with care in people with multiple sclerosis in Stockholm County: A population-based study
Authors: Gottberg K , Einarsson U , Ytterberg C , Fredrikson S , von Koch L , Holmqvist L Widén
Published: June 2008

Objectives

To explore and to describe the use of health, social, and informal care services and satisfaction with care in a population-based sample of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) in Stockholm County.

Methods

The sample consisted of 166 PwMS who participated in the Stockholm MS study. Data on the use of health care services and satisfaction with care and services in PwMS were collected through a computerized register and through home visits to PwMS using structured, face-to-face interviews.

Results

During the study period of 3 years, 92% had been in contact with out-patient departments of Neurology, and 76% had been in contact with other hospital out-patient departments. Some 83% were in contact with primary care, and primary care contacts constituted 54% of all out-patient care. One third of the PwMS (32%) used home help service (17%) or personal assistants (19%), and higher proportions used informal help from partners (37%). PwMS were in general satisfied with the care received, with the exception of access to coordinated rehabilitation and psychosocial counseling. The proportion of PwMS using inpatient, outpatient, and social/informal (excluding neurological) care increased with the degree of disease severity.

Conclusions

The great majority of PwMS use hospital specialist care and primary care in parallel, with many departments and services involved. Better accessibility of certain services, for example, psychosocial counseling and rehabilitation, and other improvements, for example efforts to provide coordinated and comprehensive care for PwMS may increase satisfaction with care and should be the focus of scientific evaluation.
Constraint-Induced Movement therapy can improve hemiparetic progressive multiple sclerosis. Preliminary findings
Authors: Mark VW , Taub E , Bashir K , Uswatte G , Delgado A , Bowman MH , Bryson CC , McKay S , Cutter GR
Published: June 2008

Objective

To evaluate whether Constraint-Induced Movement therapy (CI therapy) may benefit chronic upper extremity hemiparesis in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

Five patients with progressive MS, who had chronic upper extremity hemiparesis and evidence for learned non-use of the paretic limb in the life situation, underwent 30 hours of repetitive task training and shaping for the paretic limb over 2–10 consecutive weeks, along with physical restraint of the less-affected arm and a “transfer package” of behavioral techniques to reinforce treatment adherence.

Results

The patients showed significantly improved spontaneous, real-world limb use at post-treatment and 4 weeks post-treatment, along with improved fatigue ratings and maximal movement ability displayed in a laboratory motor test.

Conclusions

The findings suggest for the first time that slowly progressive MS may benefit from CI therapy. Further studies are needed to determine the retention of treatment responses.
Factors in the rising prevalence of multiple sclerosis in the north-east of Ireland
Authors: Gray OM , McDonnell GV , Hawkins SA
Published: June 2008

Background

Northern Ireland is recognized as an area of high risk for multiple sclerosis. The original study of Allison and Millar in 1951 found a prevalence of 51/100,000 and mean annual incidence of 2.74/100,000/year. Subsequent studies in 1961, 1986, and 1996 suggested rising prevalence – 80, 138, and 168.2/100,000, respectively.

Methods

In 2004, we surveyed the North-East of Northern Ireland (population 160,446, area 2030 km2) using multiple sources of case ascertainment, all satisfying the Poser criteria for definite or probable multiple sclerosis (MS) or the McDonald criteria.

Results

From a provisional list of 469 cases, 370 (123 males, 247 females) were identified. The prevalence was 230.6 per 100,000 (95% CI 207.0–255.4) with significantly higher prevalence in females (300.8/100,000) than males (157.0/100,000). Direct standardization to the 1961 Northern Ireland population reduced the overall prevalence rate to 200.5/100,000 (95% CI 193.2–208.0), in females to 270.2/100,000 (95% CI 258.8–282.4) and in males to 131.1/100,000 (95% CI 122.8–139.9). In 1996, incidence had risen to 9.3/100,000/year (14 cases in population of 151,000) with a higher incidence in females (10.3/100,000/year) than males (8.3/100,000/year).

Conclusions

Northern Ireland continues to have a rising prevalence of MS. The increase in incidence suggests a true increase in the disease.