bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fisetin Inhibits Hyperglycemia-Induced Proinflammatory Cytokine Production by Epigenetic Mechanisms
Authors: Kim Hye Joo , Kim Seong Hwan , Yun Jung-Mi
Published: December 2012

Diabetes is characterized by a proinflammatory state, and several inflammatory processes have been associated with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes and the resulting complications. High glucose levels induce the release of proinflammatory cytokines. Fisetin, a flavonoid dietary ingredient found in the smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria), and is also widely distributed in fruits and vegetables. Fisetin is known to exert anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway. In this study, we analyzed the effects of fisetin on proinflammatory cytokine secretion and epigenetic regulation, in human monocytes cultured under hyperglycemic conditions. Human monocytic (THP-1) cells were cultured under control (14.5 mmol/L mannitol), normoglycemic (NG, 5.5 mmol/L glucose), or hyperglycemic (HG, 20 mmol/L glucose) conditions, in the absence or presence of fisetin. Fisetin was added (3–10 μM) for 48 h. While the HG condition significantly induced histone acetylation, NF-κB activation, and proinflammatory cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α) release from THP-1 cells, fisetin suppressed NF-κB activity and cytokine release. Fisetin treatment also significantly reduced CBP/p300 gene expression, as well as the levels of acetylation and HAT activity of the CBP/p300 protein, which is a known NF-κB coactivator. These results suggest that fisetin inhibits HG-induced cytokine production in monocytes, through epigenetic changes involving NF-κB. We therefore propose that fisetin supplementation be considered for diabetes prevention.
Effects of Different Electroacupuncture Scheduling Regimens on Murine Bone Tumor-Induced Hyperalgesia: Sex Differences and Role of Inflammation
Authors: Smeester Branden A. , Al-Gizawiy Mona , Beitz Alvin J.
Published: December 2012

Previous studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) is able to reduce hyperalgesia in rodent models of persistent pain, but very little is known about the analgesic effects and potential sex differences of different EA treatment regimens. In the present study, we examined the effects of five different EA treatments on tumor-induced hyperalgesia in male and female mice. EA applied to the ST-36 acupoint either twice weekly (EA-2X/3) beginning on postimplantation day (PID) 3 or prophylactically three times prior to implantation produced the most robust and longest lasting antinociceptive effects. EA treatment given once per week beginning at PID 7 only produced an antinociceptive effect in female animals. The analgesic effect of EA-2X/3 began earlier in males, but lasted longer in females indicating sex differences in EA. We further demonstrate that EA-2X/3 elicits a marked decrease in tumor-associated inflammation as evidenced by a significant reduction in tumor-associated neutrophils at PID 7. Moreover, EA-2X/3 produced a significant reduction in tumor-associated PGE2as measured in microperfusate samples. Collectively, these data provide evidence that EA-2X/3 treatment reduces tumor-induced hyperalgesia, which is associated with a decrease in tumor-associated inflammation and PGE2concentration at the tumor site suggesting possible mechanisms by which EA reduces tumor nociception.
Crystal Structure of a 9-Subunit Archaeal Exosome in Pre-Catalytic States of the Phosphorolytic Reaction
Authors: Lorentzen Esben , Conti Elena
Published: December 2012

The RNA exosome is an important protein complex that functions in the 3′ processing and degradation of RNA in archaeal and eukaryotic organisms. The archaeal exosome is functionally similar to bacterial polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) and RNase PH enzymes as it uses inorganic phosphate (Pi) to processively cleave RNA substrates releasing nucleoside diphosphates. To shed light on the mechanism of catalysis, we have determined the crystal structures of mutant archaeal exosome in complex with either Pi or with both RNA and Pi at resolutions of 1.8 Å and 2.5 Å, respectively. These structures represent views of precatalytic states of the enzyme and allow the accurate determination of the substrate binding geometries. In the structure with both Pi and RNA bound, the Pi closely approaches the phosphate of the 3′-end nucleotide of the RNA and is in a perfect position to perform a nucleophilic attack. The presence of negative charge resulting from the close contacts between the phosphates appears to be neutralized by conserved positively charged residues in the active site of the archaeal exosome. The high degree of structural conservation between the archaeal exosome and the PNPase including the requirement for divalent metal ions for catalysis is discussed.
A Neurofuzzy Approach to Modeling Longitudinal Driving Behavior and Driving Task Complexity
Authors: Hoogendoorn R. G. , van Arem B. , Hoogendoorn S. P.
Published: December 2012

Technological innovations can be assumed to have made the driving task more complex. It is, however, not yet clear to what extent this complexity leads to changes in longitudinal driving behavior. Furthermore, it remains to be seen how these adaptation effects can best be modeled mathematically. In order to determine the effect of complexity on empirical longitudinal driving behavior we performed a driving simulator experiment with a repeated measures design. Through this experiment we established that complexity of the driving task leads to substantial changes in speed and spacing. In order to provide insight into how complexity is actually related to changes in longitudinal driving behavior we introduce a new theoretical framework based on the Task-Capability-Interface model. Finally in this paper we take some first steps towards modeling of adaptation effects in longitudinal driving behavior in relation to complexity of the driving task through the introduction of a new neurofuzzy car-following model and based on the proposed theoretical framework. In this paper we show that this model yields a relatively good prediction of longitudinal driving behavior in case of driving conditions with differing complexity. The paper finishes with a discussion section and recommendations for future research.
Multimorbidity, Mental Illness, and Quality of Care: Preventable Hospitalizations among Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Ajmera Mayank , Wilkins Tricia Lee , Findley Patricia A. , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: December 2012

Background. Individuals with multimorbidity are vulnerable to poor quality of care due to issues related to care coordination. Ambulatory care sensitive hospitalizations (ACSHs) are widely accepted quality indicators because they can be avoided by timely, appropriate, and high-quality outpatient care. Objective. To examine the association between multimorbidity, mental illness, and ACSH. Study Design. We used a longitudinal panel design with data from multiple years (2000–2005) of Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey. Individuals were categorized into three groups: (1) multimorbidity with mental illness (MM/MI); (2) MM/no MI; (3) no MM. Multivariable logistic regressions were used to analyze the association between multimorbidity and ACSH. Results. Any ACSH rates varied from 10.8% in MM/MI group to 8.8% in MM/No MI group. Likelihood of any ACSH was higher among beneficiaries with MM/MI (AOR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.14, 2.30) and MM (AOR = 1.54; 95% CI = 1.12, 2.11) compared to beneficiaries without multimorbidity. There was no statistically significant difference in likelihood of ACSH between MM/MI and MM/No MI groups. Conclusion. Multimorbidity (with or without MI) had an independent and significant association with any ACSH. However, presence of mental illness alone was not associated with poor quality of care as measured by ACSH.
Analysis on Dynamic Decision‐Making Model of the Enterprise Technological Innovation Investment under Uncertain Environment
Authors: Long Yong , Wu Hongwei , Zhou Ke Qiucheng
Published: December 2012

Under the environment of fuzzy factors including the return of market, performance of product, and the demanding level of market, we use the method of dynamic programming and establish the model of investment decision, in technology innovation project of enterprise, based on the dynamic programming. Analysis of the influence caused by the changes of fuzzy uncertainty factors to technological innovation project investment of enterprise.
Developing a Mobility Protocol for Early Mobilization of Patients in a Surgical/Trauma ICU
Authors: Zomorodi Meg , Topley Darla , McAnaw Maire
Published: December 2012

As technology and medications have improved and increased, survival rates are also increasing in intensive care units (ICUs), so it is now important to focus on improving the patient outcomes and recovery. To do this, ICU patients need to be assessed and started on an early mobility program, if stable. While the early mobilization of the ICU patients is not without risk, the current literature has demonstrated that patients can be safely and feasibly mobilized, even while requiring mechanical ventilation. These patients are at a high risk for muscle deconditioning due to limited mobility from numerous monitoring equipment and multiple medical conditions. Frequently, a critically ill patient only receives movement from nurses; such as, being turned side to side, pulled up in bed, or transferred from bed to a stretcher for a test. The implementation of an early mobility protocol that can be used by critical care nurses is important for positive patient outcomes minimizing the functional decline due to an ICU stay. This paper describes a pilot study to evaluate an early mobilization protocol to test the safety and feasibility for mechanically ventilated patients in a surgical trauma ICU in conjunction with the current unit standards.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Wax Deposition on the Restart Process of a Waxy Crude Oil Pipeline
Authors: Miao Qing
Published: December 2012

A new model for wax deposition is established based on the loop tests data of 9 typical crude oils in conjunction with the concept of the effective wax precipitation which occurs in the heat boundary layer in the pipeline. The thickness of the wax deposition of a waxy oil pipeline is predicted by the established model, and the results of the model agree well with the field data. Subsequently, the models for the shutdown and restart processes of a waxy crude oil pipeline are established. Then the restart process of a wax crude oil pipeline is investigated numerically, the temperature drop during the shutdown process and the transient inlet pressure are presented, and the effect of the wax deposition on the safety of the restart process is clarified.
Analysis of A‐Type and B‐Type Highly Polymeric Proanthocyanidins and Their Biological Activities as Nutraceuticals
Authors: Yokota Kazushige , Kimura Hideto , Ogawa Satoshi , Akihiro Takashi
Published: December 2012

Proanthocyanidins have a series of heteroflavan‐3‐ols, (+)‐catechin/(−)‐epicatechin units, which are linked through a single B‐type linkage and a doubly linked A‐type linkage. Recently, we have performed the structural characterization of seed shells of the Japanese horse chestnut and fruits of blueberry and cranberry. The molecular sizes of them were higher in the order of blueberry > cranberry > seed shells of the Japanese horse chestnut between the respective fractions. For the analysis of terminal and extension units in those proanthocyanidins, the isolated fractions were subjected to the thiolytic cleavage of the B‐type linkages using 1‐dodecanethiol, and the resulting degradation products were identified by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray‐ionization mass spectrometry. These analyses provided fast and good resolution of the degradation products and revealed higher proportions of A‐type linkages compared with B‐type linkages in both isolated fractions in the order of the seed shells > cranberry > blueberry. Moreover, the isolated fractions with higher molecular sizes and those more abundant in the proportions of A‐type linkages were found to be more effective in the inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity. The results suggest that A‐type highly polymeric proanthocyanidins are promising for the attenuation of lipid digestion as dietary supplements.
Roles of Novel Reactive Cationic Copolymers of 3‐Chloro‐2‐hydroxypropylmethyldiallylammonium Chloride and Dimethyldiallylammonium Chloride in Fixing Anionic Dyes on Cotton Fabric
Authors: Yu Yikai , Zhang Yuejun
Published: December 2012

The roles of novel reactive cationic copolymers (P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s) of 3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropylmethyldiallylammonium chloride (CMDA) and dimethyldiallylammonium chloride (DMDAAC) in fixing anionic dyes on cotton fabric were studied by modern instrumental analysis technologies such as FT‐IR spectra and SEM analysis, to achieve the new theoretical guides for the wide applications of those dye fixatives. The FT‐IR spectra of the obtained insoluble‐water color lakes verified that they could be formed from the electrostatic interactions of the P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s with anionic dyes, which were further confirmed by the FT‐IR analysis of the anionic dyes on dyeing cotton sample fixed by P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s. The FT‐IR spectra of cotton samples fixed by P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s showed the absorptions of P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s and the signs similar to the formation of new ether linkage on cotton fabric even after being repeatedly washed, which were further confirmed by the SEM analysis of the fixed dyeing cotton samples. Thus, the reactive units (CMDA) of the obtained P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s could be expected to bring about the covalent bonds with the hydroxyl groups of cotton (cellulose) to form an ether linkage when fixing, resulting in the stronger interactions of P(CMDA‐DMDAAC)s with cotton fabric, as well as their electrostatic forces with anionic dyes to produce the insoluble‐water color lakes, for the development of fastness of anionic dyes on cotton fabric.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 in Development and Disease: A Mini-Review
Authors: Bergman Daniel , Halje Matilda , Nordin Matilda , Engström Wilhelm
Published: December 2012

Background: Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a protein hormone known to regulate cell proliferation, growth, migration, differentiation and survival. The gene is parentally imprinted in the sense that transcripts are almost exclusively derived from the paternal allele. Loss of imprinting of the IGF2 gene is a recurrent observation in growth disorders that combine overgrowth with a variety of malignant tumours. Moreover, IGF2 has been proposed to play a role in the development of a variety of seemingly unrelated cancers that play an important role in geriatric medicine, e.g. breast cancer, colon cancer and lung cancer. Finally, IGF2 has been implicated in cardiovascular disease, since, for example, IGF2 has been shown to influence the size of atherosclerotic lesions. Objective: To summarize current knowledge about IGF2, its interactions with binding proteins and receptors and connections with key diseases. Methods: The contents of this paper were based on reviews of existing literature within the field. Results: There is a substantial amount of research linking IGF2 to growth disorders, cancer and to a much lesser degree cardiovascular disease. Some of the studies on IGF2 and tumour growth have yielded conflicting results, for instance regarding its effect on apoptosis. Conclusion: Today, our knowledge on how IGF2 is composed and interacts with receptors has come a long way. However, there is comparatively little information on how IGF2 affects tumour growth and cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis. Thus, further research will be needed to elucidate the impact of IGF2 on key diseases.
Longitudinal Study of Looming in Infants with High-Density EEG
Authors: van der Meer Audrey L.H. , Svantesson Monica , van der Weel F.R. Ruud
Published: December 2012

A rapidly approaching object provides information about the object's approach and how imminent a collision is. Prospective control when responding to a looming virtual object approaching on a direct collision course was studied longitudinally in 10 infants aged 5/6 and 12/13 months. Different characteristics of the looming-related visual evoked potential (VEP) responses from infants' brain electrical recordings (EEG) were explored and compared between the infants at these different ages. The aim of this study was to find evidence for infant brain electrical responses coherent with a looming stimulus approaching the infant under three different accelerations. It was also investigated whether the use of different timing strategies to estimate the loom's time-to-collision would produce differences in the EEG recordings. The results showed that the timing and the duration of the VEP responses differed with age. At the age of 5/6 months, infants showed VEP peaks earlier in the looming sequence and VEP responses with longer duration than when they were 12/13 months old. Results from the timing-strategy analysis showed that with age, 4 infants shifted from a less efficient timing strategy involving the loom's velocity to the more efficient strategy involving the loom's time-to-collision. Further, it was found that peak VEP activation in the investigated areas propagated across the cortex, showing the highest observed activation in the occipital area at the age of 5/6 months, whereas the parietal area showed the highest activation when the infants were 12/13 months. The decrease in processing time together with a peak VEP response closer to the loom's time-to-collision indicate a developmental trend in infants' prediction of an object's time-to-collision. This developmental trend is further substantiated by the shift from a less efficient to a more efficient timing strategy and by evidence of propagated peak VEP activation towards higher information processing areas in the visual pathway with age. As infants grow older and become more mobile, one of the underlying causes of the developmental trend found in our study could be due to an increase in locomotor experience. More follow-up research is needed to investigate the relation between behavioural development and changes in brain activity associated with infants' perception of looming motion.
Expressions of Some Neurotrophins and Neurotrophic Cytokines at Site of Spinal Cord Injury in Mice after Vaccination with Dendritic Cells Pulsed with Homogenate Proteins
Authors: Wang Ke , Chao Rui , Guo Qiao-Nan , Liu Ming-Yong , Liang Hua-Ping , Liu Peng , Zhao Jian-Hua
Published: December 2012

Objective: Immune cells are key mediators of secondary damage following spinal cord injury (SCI), and dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines have received considerable interest for treatment of SCI. We previously showed that vaccination with DCs pulsed with homogenate proteins of the spinal cord (hpDCs) promotes functional recovery from SCI in mice. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, changes of neurotrophins, cytokines and T cells at the site of SCI in mice after vaccination with hpDCs were investigated and correlated with recovery from SCI. Methods: hpDCs, DCs (control) or PBS (control) were injected intraperitoneally into injured mouse spinal cords. Functional recovery of the spinal cord was measured weekly using the Basso Mouse Scale (BMS) and confirmed by histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) levels in T cell culture supernatants and spinal cord tissues were determined by ELISA. Results: Eighty-four days after immunization, the BMS score of the hpDCs group (6.92 ± 0.20) was significantly higher than those of the DCs and PBS groups (p < 0.01). Meanwhile, the injury area and number of cysts in the hpDCs group decreased significantly compared with control groups. BDNF, NT-3, IL-4 and IFN-γ levels at the injured site as well as BDNF and NT-3 levels in the supernatant of cultured T cells from the hpDCs group were significantly higher than in control groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: These results reveal that vaccination with hpDCs can promote SCI repair potentially by upregulating BDNF, NT-3, IL-4 and IFN-γ at the injury site.
Hormonal Receptor, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-2, and Ki67 Discordance between Primary Breast Cancer and Paired Metastases: Clinical Impact
Authors: Ibrahim Toni , Farolfi Alberto , Scarpi Emanuela , Mercatali Laura , Medri Laura , Ricci Marianna , Nanni Oriana , Serra Luigi , Amadori Dino
Published: December 2012

Objective: As hormone receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2) expression in primary breast tumors frequently differs from that of paired metastases, we first evaluated the discordance rate (DR) of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PgR), HER-2, and Ki67 in breast cancer patients and then assessed the discordance effect on prognosis. Methods: Of 145 cases reviewed, 120 with samples available from both primary tumors and paired metastases were included in the study. For each receptor, the DR was calculated as the proportion of discordant cases with respect to the total number of patients. Results: A change in ER status was observed in 19 cases (DR 16.4%), while PgR status was modified in 48 cases (DR 41.7%). HER-2 was altered in 21 cases (DR 17.5%), and Ki67 in 33 patients (DR 38.8%). Patients with Ki67 <20% had a significantly higher postrecurrence survival (PRS) compared to patients with Ki67 ≥20% (p = 0.0006). Patients with ER-positive tumors showed a trend towards higher PRS (p = 0.064) compared to ER-negative patients. No differences in PRS were seen among patients with altered PgR or HER2 status. Conclusions: Changes in the cell biology of breast cancer metastasis would seem to occur and biopsy could potentially guide the choice of treatment and provide useful information on prognosis.
Role of Urea in Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction and Disruption of Epithelial Tight Junction in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Vaziri Nosratola D. , Yuan Jun , Norris Keith
Published: December 2012

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) impairs intestinal barrier function which leads to endotoxemia and systemic inflammation. We have found depletion of intestinal epithelial tight junction (TJ) proteins in animals with CKD. We further showed that addition of end-stage renal disease patients’ plasma to the culture medium provokes a marked drop in transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and depletion of TJ proteins in cultured human enterocytes. These effects were less severe with post- than with prehemodialysis plasma, suggesting a role of dialyzable agent(s). This study tested the hypothesis that intestinal barrier dysfunction in uremia may be due to diffusion of urea into the gut and its conversion to ammonia by microbial urease. Methods: Human enterocytes (T84 cells) were seeded on Transwell plates and utilized when TER exceeded 1,000 mΩ·cm2 to ensure full polarization and TJ formation. Confluent cells were then incubated for 24 h in media containing 0, 42 or 74 mg/dl urea or urea plus urease to simulate presence of microbial flora. Results: At clinically relevant concentrations, urea caused a concentration-dependent fall in TER and the key TJ proteins claudin-1, occludin and zonula occludens 1. The effects of urea were dramatically amplified by urease causing cell detachment, dissipation of TER, and massive loss of TJ proteins. Conclusions: Uremia-induced disruption of intestinal TJ and barrier function is, in part, mediated by urea which is generally considered to be a nontoxic retained metabolite. These findings reveal a novel mechanism for a salutary effect of urea-lowering strategies, e.g. low-protein diet and longer and more frequent dialysis regimens in advanced CKD.
Prevalence of antibodies to prothrombin in solid phase (aPT) and to phosphatidylserine-prothrombin complex (aPS/PT) in patients with and without lupus anticoagulant
Authors: Sciascia Savino , Murru Veronica , Garcia-Fernandez Cesar , Sanna Giovanni , Khamashta Munther , Bertolaccini Maria Laura
Published: December 2012

Antibodies to prothrombin in solid phase (aPT) and those to phosphatidiyserine- prothrombin complex (aPS/PT) have been suggested to strongly correlate with the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA). As their clinical diagnostic value and true relationship with the LA remains elusive, we designed this study to evaluate the prevalence and significance of aPT and aPS/PT in a large cohort of patients with and without LA. Samples from 257 patients were included. aPT and aPS/PT were tested by ELISA. LA was tested as per the current criteria from the ISTH Subcommittee on LA-Phospholipid-dependent antibodies. aPS/PT and aPT were found in 51% and 32% of LA-positive (LA+ve) patients and in 22% and 28% of LA-negative (LA-ve) patients, respectively. Thrombosis, particularly venous thrombosis was associated with IgG aPT in the LA+ve group (p=0.0006) and in the LA-ve group (p=0.017). Antibodies to phosphatidylserine-prothrombin, either IgG and IgM were associated with thrombosis in general (p=0.0003) in particularly with venous thrombosis in the LA+ve group (p<0.0001 for IgG and p=0.025 for IgM; respectively) and the LA-ve group (p=0.028, 0.02 and 0.001, respectively). Further multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that LA and of IgG and/or IgM aPS/PT were independent risk factors for thrombosis and pregnancy loss. In conclusion, aPS/PT, but not aPT, are more frequently found in patients with LA. Their association with thrombosis seems to be independent of the presence of LA.
Evaluating the clinical usefulness of platelet function testing: Considerations for the proper application and interpretation of performance measures
Authors: Price Matthew J. , Parise Helen , Gurbel Paul A. , Dahlen Jeffrey R.
Published: December 2012

Various diagnostic and prognostic performance measures have been used to describe the clinical usefulness of platelet function testing in the evaluation and management of patients taking P2Y12 inhibitors, which reduce the risk for thrombosis due to their action on the platelet P2Y12 receptor. Platelet function tests are used to confirm the presence of an antiplatelet effect of a P2Y12 inhibitor, and confirmation that the pharmacodynamic effect is associated with a reduction in the rate of thrombosis. Despite this clear association, enthusiasm for the clinical usefulness of platelet function testing has been tempered based on observed sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value for the detection of future thrombotic events. However, evaluating the prognostic utility of a test based on diagnostic performance indicators is not appropriate because prognostic tests are not used to diagnose which patients will have events; instead, they are used to assist in risk stratification. Therefore, when evaluating the usefulness of platelet function testing, diagnostic performance measures such as sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values should focus on diagnostic performance in identifying a pharmacodynamic effect, and prognostic performance should be evaluated using prognostic performance measures such as hazard ratios and net reclassification improvement, which are comparable to other well-established risk factors for cardiovascular events.
Percutaneous Hemodynamic Support With Impella 2.5 During Scar-Related Ventricular Tachycardia Ablation (PERMIT 1)
Authors: Miller Marc A. , Dukkipati Srinivas R. , Chinitz Jason S. , Koruth Jacob S. , Mittnacht Alexander J. , Napolitano Craig , d’Avila Andre , Reddy Vivek Y.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Percutaneous left ventricular assist devices (pLVADs) are increasingly being used to facilitate ablation of unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT), but the safety profile and hemodynamic benefits of these devices have not been described in a systematic, prospective manner.

Methods and Results—

Twenty patients with scar VT underwent ablation with a pLVAD. Neuromonitoring using cerebral oximetry was performed to evaluate a cerebral desaturation threshold to guide the duration of activation/entrainment mapping. The efficacy of pLVAD support was tested in a controlled manner with simulated VT. Complete procedural success was achieved in 50% (n=8) of patients, who were initially inducible for sustained VT, and partial procedural success in 37% (n=6). Using a cerebral desaturation level of 55% as a lower safety limit to guide the duration of sustained VT, 3 patients (15%) developed mild acute kidney injury (all resolved), and 1 (5%) patient developed mild cognitive dysfunction. During fast simulated VT (300 ms), cerebral desaturation to ≤55% occurred in more than half (53%) of patients tested without pLVAD support, compared with only 5% with full pLVAD support (
P
=0.003).

Conclusions—

In a consecutive series of patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction, pLVAD-supported scar VT ablation was safe and feasible. During fast simulated VT, a miniaturized axial flow pump imparted a more favorable hemodynamic profile compared with pharmacological agents alone. Cerebral oximetry is a complimentary monitoring modality during scar VT ablation, and avoidance of cerebral desaturations below a threshold of 55% may safely guide the duration of mapping during unstable VT.
Integration of multiple cues allows threat-sensitive anti-intraguild predator responses in predatory mites
Authors: Walzer Andreas , Schausberger Peter
Published: December 2012

Intraguild (IG) prey is commonly confronted with multiple IG predator species. However, the IG predation (IGP) risk for prey is not only dependent on the predator species, but also on inherent (intraspecific) characteristics of a given IG predator such as its life-stage, sex or gravidity and the associated prey needs. Thus, IG prey should have evolved the ability to integrate multiple IG predator cues, which should allow both inter- and intraspecific threat-sensitive anti-predator responses. Using a guild of plant-inhabiting predatory mites sharing spider mites as prey, we evaluated the effects of single and combined cues (eggs and/or chemical traces left by a predator female on the substrate) of the low risk IG predator Neoseiulus californicus and the high risk IG predator Amblyseius andersoni on time, distance and path shape parameters of the larval IG prey Phytoseiulus persimilis. IG prey discriminated between traces of the low and high risk IG predator, with and without additional presence of their eggs, indicating interspecific threat-sensitivity. The behavioural changes were manifest in distance moved, activity and path shape of IG prey. The cue combination of traces and eggs of the IG predators conveyed other information than each cue alone, allowing intraspecific threat-sensitive responses by IG prey apparent in changed velocities and distances moved. We argue that graded responses to single and combined IG predator cues are adaptive due to minimization of acceptance errors in IG prey decision making.
Problems concerning mancipatio
Authors: Perelló Carlos Felipe Amunátegui
Published: December 2012

This article is a revision of the main theories regarding the origin and primitive function of mancipatio, studying its economical and social functions and comparing these with the primitive pre-state organization of Rome. It concludes that mancipatio is a archaic ceremony aimed to give certainty to transactions of goods that belonged to the gentes, especially those that involved the transfer of productive assets.
Una decisio della Rota di Siena: tra leasing e riserva di proprietà all’inizio dell’Età Moderna
Authors: Mancuso Fulvio
Published: December 2012

A decision of the Rota of Siena: between leasing and reservation of ownership at the beginning of Modern Times. – Late medieval and early-modern legal developments took place in Italy within the general framework of ius commune and iura propria, original legal constructs which present similar features to leasing in English law. These developments can be traced in the doctrinal corpus of the Italian ius commune tradition, but it may be surmised that they also appeared in sources related to legal practice. Thus, a case decided by the Rota of Siena in 1541–1543 shows that contractual forms similar to the leasing and to the emptio–venditio cum reservatione dominii were known and used in Italian practice, at least from the latter part of the 15th century onwards.
La justice transitionnelle en Belgique dans les affaires pénales après la Première Guerre mondiale (1918–1928)
Authors: Monballyu J.
Published: December 2012

Transitional justice in Belgium after the First World War in the area of criminal justice (1918–1928). – After the First World War, from 1918 until 1928, Belgium experienced a form of transitional justice, especially in the area of criminal justice. In order to meet demands for revenge fostered among the population against various individuals accused of high treason, the death penalty was reinstated for a number of political crimes, military tribunals were given powers to hear cases of offences against state security committed by civilians, and the judicial branch of Public Prosecutions (Ministère Public) was empowered to prosecute the same offences in connexion with the military prosecuting officers (auditeurs militaires). As a result, arbitrary arrests and detention occurred in several cases, the rights of the defence were curtailed, some criminal statutory provisions were allowed to be applied retrospectively, criminal law tended to be construed extensively, indictments were based on an arbitrary selection, and, although the law excluded forfeiture of private property and assets which had been acquired through dealings and collaboration with the enemy, that hurdle was circumvented by the procedural device of introducing the Belgian State as a private litigant in criminal proceedings (partie civile) in order to obtain compensation for the crimes committed by the defendants
Improving access to Library and Information Science research
Authors: Hall Hazel , Irving Christine , Cruickshank Peter
Published: December 2012

Between 2009 and 2012 considerable investment was made in three UK projects related to library and information science (LIS) research: (1) the Library and Information Science Research Coalition; (2) the AHRC-funded Developing Research Excellence and Methods (DREaM) project; and (3) the Research in Librarianship Impact Evaluation Study (RiLIES). This article presents the main features of each project, and discusses their value with reference to maximizing the relevance and impact of research to LIS practitioners. It outlines plans for the support of LIS research in the UK beyond 2012.
Applying Jackson’s Methodological Ideal-Types: Problems of Differentiation and Classification
Authors: Humphreys Adam R.C.
Published: December 2012

In The Conduct of Inquiry in International Relations, Patrick Jackson situates methodologies in International Relations in relation to their underlying philosophical assumptions. One of his aims is to map International Relations debates in a way that ‘capture[s] current controversies’ (p. 40). This ambition is overstated: whilst Jackson’s typology is useful as a clarificatory tool, (re)classifying existing scholarship in International Relations is more problematic. One problem with Jackson’s approach is that he tends to run together the philosophical assumptions which decisively differentiate his methodologies (by stipulating a distinctive warrant for knowledge claims) and the explanatory strategies that are employed to generate such knowledge claims, suggesting that the latter are entailed by the former. In fact, the explanatory strategies which Jackson associates with each methodology reflect conventional practice in International Relations just as much as they reflect philosophical assumptions. This makes it more difficult to identify each methodology at work than Jackson implies. I illustrate this point through a critical analysis of Jackson’s controversial reclassification of Waltz as an analyticist, showing that whilst Jackson’s typology helps to expose inconsistencies in Waltz’s approach, it does not fully support the proposed reclassification. The conventional aspect of methodologies in International Relations also raises questions about the limits of Jackson’s ‘engaged pluralism’.
Between Normalisation and Exception: The Securitisation of Islam and the Construction of the Secular Subject
Authors: Mavelli Luca
Published: December 2012

In recent political and scholarly debates, the notion of ‘securitisation of Islam’ has acquired increasing relevance, yet very little attempt has been made to investigate the theoretical implications of the securitisation of Muslim subjects carried out by secular regimes for thinking security. This article aims to partially fill this gap by exploring the securitisation of Muslim minorities in Western societies as a process of construction and reproduction of secular modes of subjectivity. To this end, the article outlines the contours of an approach to securitisation which draws on both the Copenhagen and the Paris schools of security studies, as well as on a gender/body perspective which focuses on the subjectivities that securitisation aims to produce. Following some illustrations of the securitisation of Islam in the aftermath of 9/11 and 7/7, an exploration of a Western notion of subjectivity revolving around the securitisation of Christianity and the construction of Islam as a threatening deviation from this historical trajectory, and an analysis of the securitisation of the headscarf and the burqa in France, the article concludes that securitisation rests on both logics of political normalisation and exception which warrant an exploration of the discursive sediments which make them possible.
Science, Progress and Pluralism in the Study of International Relations
Authors: Chernoff Fred
Published: December 2012

The article looks at one of the central arguments of Patrick Jackson’s book The Conduct of Enquiry in International Relations: the attempt to advance methodological pluralism and dialogue among contending metatheoretical schools of International Relations. The article supports the goal of pluralism but argues that there is a significant gap in Jackson’s support of it and that his version of pluralism inhibits metatheoretical engagement of different schools of thought. The latter in turn limits the possibility of progress in the field. The article outlines the missing steps in Jackson’s argument, the way in which he unduly limits the contribution that the philosophy of science can make to scientific progress and an alternative argument for pluralism that leaves a role for genuine philosophical engagement and the possibility of progress in IR.
Surgical correction of labial fusion with vaginoplasty in a cat
Authors: Plavec Tanja , Pavlin Darja
Published: December 2012

A spayed female domestic shorthair cat was first examined at the age of 16 months because of persistent licking of the perineal area. The cat had a grossly enlarged and oedematous vulva with pronounced superficial pyoderma of the perivulvar area, which responded favourably to systemic antibiotics, analgesics and local corticosteroids. A month after the initial examination, the cat was re-presented owing to pollakiuria, stranguria and dyschesia. The oedema of the vulva had disappeared and the vulvar labia were fused together; there was only a fistulous tract with a diameter of 1 mm present in the area of the vulva, and the cat strained to urinate through that opening. A contrast study revealed normal transit through the lower urinary tract, but labial adhesions resulted in the development of dilation cranially, where the vaginal vestibule was supposed to be. Vaginoplasty was subsequently performed, the cat recovered normally and, 10 months after the procedure, the lumen of the vaginostoma is preserved and the cat is urinating without difficulty.
Calypso in the Caribbean
Authors: Rao Asha , Sedlaczek Yvonne
Published: December 2012

In the past century, the multiple Caribbean islands that form part of a culturally diverse region called the West Indies were settled by many Europeans such as the British, Danish, Dutch, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. The Caribbean region has not been the subject of much management research. We focus on one of the countries in the region, Barbados, and use an emic approach to analyze and understand the culture and its implications for the workplace. In the past thirty years, Barbados has grown to become a leading international centre in the Caribbean. We use the metaphor of Calypso music to examine Barbadian culture along some of the popular cultural dimensions used in management research. Music is an integral part of the West Indian culture and Calypso is a rich tool to examine Barbadian culture in particular.
Theories of Cognitive Distortions in Sexual Offending
Authors: Ó Ciardha Caoilte , Ward Tony
Published: December 2012

Cognitive distortions in sex offenders are specific or general beliefs/attitudes that violate commonly accepted norms of rationality that have been shown to be associated with the onset and maintenance of sexual offending. In this article, we describe the major theories that have been formulated to explain the role of distorted cognition in initiating and maintaining sexual offending. We evaluate each theory in light of a set of theory appraisal criteria and the available empirical research. Finally, we conclude by drawing together the results of this theory evaluation process and highlight the major implications for treatment and future research.
Cognition, Empathy, and Sexual Offending
Authors: Barnett Georgia D. , Mann Ruth E.
Published: December 2012

Most empathy research in the forensic context has assumed that empathy has two components. In this two-component model, the cognitive component involves perspective taking, and the affective component involves experiencing appropriate emotion. In this review, we identify how this assumption has both dominated and limited empathy research with offenders, nearly all of which has been conducted with sexual offenders. We propose instead that five components are involved in the experience of empathy: perspective taking, the ability to experience emotion, a belief that others are worthy of compassion and respect, situational factors, and an ability to manage personal distress. We suggest that the non-situational factors that blocked empathy for the victim at the time of a sexual offense are probably other dispositions known to be related to sexual offending, such as sexual preoccupation, generalized hostility to others, implicit theories about children and sex, and/or poor coping with negative emotions. We conclude with directions for practice and research, and urge greater caution in correctional policies on victim empathy programs.
Early and nonreversible decrease of CD161++/MAIT cells in HIV infection
Authors: Cosgrove Cormac , Ussher James E. , Rauch Andri , Gärtner Kathleen , Kurioka Ayako , Hühn Michael H. , Adelmann Krista , Kang Yu-Hoi , Fergusson Joannah R. , Simmonds Peter , Goulder Philip , Hansen Ted H. , Fox Julie , Günthard Huldrych F. , Khanna Nina , Powrie Fiona , Steel Alan , Gazzard Brian , Phillips Rodney E. , Frater John , Uhlig Holm , Klenerman Paul
Published: December 2012

Key Points

The frequency of CD161++ MAIT cells is dramatically decreased in the blood of HIV-infected patients, and they are nonrecoverable with HAART. Gut sequestration and apoptosis in response to bacterial signals may, amongst others, be mechanisms that contribute to this.
Forssman expression on human erythrocytes: biochemical and genetic evidence of a new histo-blood group system
Authors: Svensson Lola , Hult Annika K. , Stamps Robert , Ångström Jonas , Teneberg Susann , Storry Jill R. , Jørgensen René , Rydberg Lennart , Henry Stephen M. , Olsson Martin L.
Published: December 2012

Key Points

A new histo-blood group system was discovered, based on the identification of Forssman glycolipid antigen on human red blood cells. A newly described polymorphism in the GBGT1 gene activates the encoded enzyme to synthesize Forssman antigen.
MicroRNAs and essential components of the microRNA processing machinery are not encoded in the genome of the ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi
Authors: Maxwell Evan K , Ryan Joseph F , Schnitzler Christine E , Browne William E , Baxevanis Andreas D
Published: December 2012

Background

MicroRNAs play a vital role in the regulation of gene expression and have been identified in every animal with a sequenced genome examined thus far, except for the placozoan Trichoplax. The genomic repertoires of metazoan microRNAs have become increasingly endorsed as phylogenetic characters and drivers of biological complexity.

Results

In this study, we report the first investigation of microRNAs in a species from the phylum Ctenophora. We use short RNA sequencing and the assembled genome of the lobate ctenophore Mnemiopsis leidyi to show that this species appears to lack any recognizable microRNAs, as well as the nuclear proteins Drosha and Pasha, which are critical to canonical microRNA biogenesis. This finding represents the first reported case of a metazoan lacking a Drosha protein.

Conclusions

Recent phylogenomic analyses suggest that Mnemiopsis may be the earliest branching metazoan lineage. If this is true, then the origins of canonical microRNA biogenesis and microRNA-mediated gene regulation may postdate the last common metazoan ancestor. Alternatively, canonical microRNA functionality may have been lost independently in the lineages leading to both Mnemiopsis and the placozoan Trichoplax, suggesting that microRNA functionality was not critical until much later in metazoan evolution.
Transcriptome analysis of Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) seeds at two developmental stages
Authors: Wang Xiaojuan , Xu Ronghua , Wang Ruling , Liu Aizhong
Published: December 2012

Background

Sacha Inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L., Euphorbiaceae) is a potential oilseed crop because the seeds of this plant are rich in unsaturated fatty acids (FAs). In particular, the fatty acid composition of its seed oil differs markedly in containing large quantities of α-linolenic acid (18C:3, a kind of ω-3 FAs). However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms responsible for biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids in the developing seeds of this species. Transcriptome data are needed to better understand these mechanisms.

Results

In this study, de novo transcriptome assembly and gene expression analysis were performed using Illumina sequencing technology. A total of 52.6 million 90-bp paired-end reads were generated from two libraries constructed at the initial stage and fast oil accumulation stage of seed development. These reads were assembled into 70,392 unigenes; 22,179 unigenes showed a 2-fold or greater expression difference between the two libraries. Using this data we identified unigenes that may be involved in de novo FA and triacylglycerol biosynthesis. In particular, a number of unigenes encoding desaturase for formation of unsaturated fatty acids with high expression levels in the fast oil accumulation stage compared with the initial stage of seed development were identified.

Conclusions

This study provides the first comprehensive dataset characterizing Sacha Inchi gene expression at the transcriptional level. These data provide the foundation for further studies on molecular mechanisms underlying oil accumulation and PUFA biosynthesis in Sacha Inchi seeds. Our analyses facilitate understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the high unsaturated fatty acids (especially α-linolenic acid) accumulation in Sacha Inchi seeds.