bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing HIV Medication Adherence in India
Authors: Jones Deborah , Sharma Aman , Kumar Mahendra , Waldrop-Valverde Drenna , Nehra Ritu , Vamos Szonja , Cook Ryan , Weiss Stephen M.
Published: May 2012

Background:

This pilot study evaluated an intervention designed to enhance adherence among those new to antiretroviral therapy.

Methods:

Participants (n = 80) were recruited from a hospital clinic in Chandigarh, India, and randomized to a 3-month group intervention or individual enhanced standard of care followed by crossover of condition and assessed over 6 months. Adherence was measured by prescription refill, pill count, and self-report.

Results:

At baseline, 56% of group condition (immediate intervention) and 54% of individual condition (delayed intervention) participants were nonadherent by pill count and 23% of group and 26% of individual condition participants self-reported skipping medication at least once over the last 3 months. From the postintervention to long-term follow-up, adherence in the group condition (immediate intervention) improved in comparison with adherence in the individual condition (delayed intervention; χ2 = 5.67, P = .02).

Conclusions:

Results support the use of interventions early in treatment to provide information and social support to establish long-term healthy adherence behaviors.
Motor and Cognitive Impairments in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Paul Serene S. , Sherrington Catherine , Fung Victor S. C. , Canning Colleen G.
Published: May 2012

Background. Balance and mobility problems are common for people with Parkinson disease (PD). Objective. To determine the relationships of motor and cognitive impairments with specific balance and mobility task performance. Methods. A total of 82 community-dwelling people with idiopathic PD were tested “on” medication. Impairments measured included leg extensor and hip abductor muscle power, freezing of gait, dyskinesia, and executive function. Balance and mobility were classified into tasks requiring anticipatory control with a change in base of support, anticipatory control without a change in support, and reactive adjustments in response to external perturbations. Associations between impairments and tasks were examined using univariable and multivariable linear regression models. Results. Univariable models revealed that muscle power was significantly related to balance and mobility, explaining 7% to 33% of the variability in task performance. Freezing of gait, dyskinesia, and executive function were not consistently related to task performance. Multivariable models that included all impairments plus disease severity, age, gender, and height explained 5% to 43% of the variability in balance and mobility tasks. Leg muscle power was the only impairment with a consistent association with performance of tasks involving anticipatory control with a change in base of support (β = 0.2 to 0.5), but the association of each muscle group was specific to individual tasks. Conclusion. Information gained from this study about the relationships between impairments and specific balance and mobility tasks may be able to guide the development of interventional strategies for people with PD.
The price of medicines in Jordan: the cost of trade-based intellectual property
Authors: Abbott Ryan B , Bader Rania , Bajjali Lina , ElSamen Taher Abu , Obeidat Thamer , Sboul Hanan , Shwayat Mustafa , Alabbadi Ibrahim
Published: May 2012

Jordan dramatically strengthened the level of intellectual property protection it provides for pharmaceutical products in consequence of joining the World Trade Organization in 2000 and signing a Free Trade Agreement with the United States in 2001. This study assesses the impact of higher levels of intellectual property protection on access to medicines by quantifying the effects on the private retail pharmaceutical market of delayed market entry of generic products. Adjusted for increased sales volume and inflation, from 1999 to 2004 there was a 17% increase in total annual expenditure for medicines in Jordan. When assessing originator medicines that were marketed in both 1999 and 2004, and for which there were generic equivalents, the weighted average price of originator medicines increased while the weighted average price of equivalent generic medicines decreased. Delayed market entry of generics due to enhanced intellectual property protection is estimated to have cost Jordanian private consumers approximately 18 million U.S. dollars in 2004. Jordan should consider amending its current regulatory scheme on data protection and amending the Unfair Competition and Trade Secrets Law of 2000. Jordan should also consider increased spending on public health to offset the adverse impact on consumers of strengthening its intellectual property protection relevant to pharmaceutical products.
Deficiencies in generic product dossiers as submitted to the WHO Prequalification of Medicines Programme
Authors: Worku Wondiyfraw Z , Gordon John , Stahl Matthias MS , Rägo Lembit
Published: May 2012

This study was undertaken to determine the type and extent of deficiencies in generic product dossiers in the therapeutic areas of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and reproductive health, as submitted to the WHO Prequalification of Medicines Programme. There were considerably more quality-related deficiencies in tuberculosis, malaria and reproductive health dossiers compared to HIV dossiers, especially in the category specification of active pharmaceutical ingredients, development pharmaceutics, manufacturing method and finished pharmaceutical product specifications. The deficiencies related to the efficacy/safety portion of the dossiers displayed a trend similar to that observed in the quality portion in that the most critical deficiencies such as an incorrect study design, the use of an unacceptable comparator or the failure to include a study occurred considerably more frequently in the tuberculosis, malaria and reproductive health dossiers than in the HIV dossiers. The frequency of dossier-related deficiencies as determined on screening and assessment of the dossiers seemed to be inversely related to the number of product dossiers that had been prequalified by the end of 2010. The results of this study stress the need for continued capacity building of local generic manufacturers, further development of pharmacopoeial monographs by WHO (PhInt) and other pharmacopoeial commissions, not least to promote development of generic products, as well as development of new guidelines (WHO guidelines for development of generic and paediatric products and a technology transfer guidance document are currently being finalized). To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review of the quality and efficacy/safety portions of generic product dossiers, originating from pharmaceutical companies in emerging markets, and comparison of dossier deficiencies across four critically important therapeutic areas.
Doing ‘strengths-based’ research: Appreciative Inquiry in a probation setting
Authors: Robinson Gwen , Priede Camilla , Farrall Stephen , Shapland Joanna , McNeill Fergus
Published: May 2012

This article considers the application of Appreciative Inquiry (AI) as a research methodology in the field of probation research. Although AI has previously been used in prisons research it has not to date been applied to research on probation. In this article we describe why and how AI was applied in an exploratory study of ‘quality’ in probation practice. The article includes some reflections from us as researchers and from the participants in our study (staff in three English Probation Trusts). It is argued not only that AI served our project well (in terms of furnishing us with a wealth of relevant, good quality data) but also that our choice of methodology rendered visible aspects of contemporary probation culture which, we believe, would have remained hidden had we not chosen to explore quality through an ‘appreciative’ lens. It is further argued that in organizations experiencing challenging times, an appreciative stance has ethical as well as instrumental advantages. There are, thus, both instrumental and normative rationales for recommending AI as a suitable approach in probation research.
Catching fleeting memories: Victim forums as mediated remembering communities
Authors: Jones Sara
Published: May 2012

This article examines the potential of the new media to provide space for the voicing of traumatic pasts. Using the example of www.stasiopfer.de , a site dedicated to the victims of persecution in the former German Democratic Republic (GDR), I consider the development of remembering communities on the internet. Close textual analysis of a selection of posts reveals the ways in which group belonging is constructed linguistically. The observation of a hybrid language form between orality and textuality, and the staging of temporal immediacy, is linked to the concept of a medial trace that has a structuring impact on the memories produced. I argue that in the case of internet communication part of this medial trace is the ‘catching’ of otherwise evanescent memory, that is, the mediatization of communicative memory. In this way, discussion forums that focus on memory can be described as both part of ‘stored’ cultural memory and mediated remembering communities.
The relationship between displacement and clinical outcome after distal radius (Colles’) fracture
Authors: Finsen V. , Rod O. , Rød K. , Rajabi B. , Alm-Paulsen P. S. , Russwurm H.
Published: May 2012

We reviewed 260 patients who had been treated non-operatively for a dorsally displaced distal radius fracture a mean 6.3 (range 2.5–12.7) years earlier, in an attempt to find the limits of displacement compatible with a good clinical outcome. We excluded patients with previous or later injuries to the same limb. Bivariate analysis revealed a highly statistically significant relationship between radiographic displacement at review and clinical outcome scores. Correlation coefficients varied between 0.14 and 0.30. However, multiple linear regression analysis using most factors commonly thought to be of importance in determining the clinical outcome as independent variables explained only 23% of the variability of the clinical outcome. Dorsal angulation, ulnar variance, and radial inclination together accounted for only 11% of the variability. We conclude that the final alignment of the distal radius as shown radiologically has only a minor influence on the clinical outcome of Colles’ type distal radius fractures.
The results of carpal tunnel release for carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed on clinical grounds, with or without electrophysiological investigations: a randomized study
Authors: Żyluk A. , Szlosser Z.
Published: May 2012

We compared the results of carpal tunnel release in patients with the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome based on only clinical grounds and those diagnosed on clinical and electrophysiological grounds. Ninety-three patients, 83 women (89%) and ten men (11%), meeting the criteria of ‘typical’ carpal tunnel syndrome, were randomly assigned to receive carpal tunnel release with ( n = 45, 48%) or without ( n = 48, 52%) nerve conduction studies. Patients were followed-up at 1 and 6 months, by assessments that included the Levine scores, filament tests, grip and pinch strength. No significant differences in Levine scores were found at the 1 and 6 months assessments. Statistically significant differences were noted in three-point pinch strength and sensation; however, they were not of clinical importance. The results of the study show that the results of carpal tunnel release in patients with typical symptoms are no better after nerve conduction studies and, therefore, nerve conduction studies can be omitted.
The use of Swanson silastic interposition arthroplasty in revision thumb-base surgery for failed trapeziectomy; a case series of 10 patients
Authors: Umarji S. I. M. , Arnander M. W. T. , Evans D. M.
Published: May 2012

Patients who report ongoing adverse symptoms following trapeziectomy may require revision surgery. We present a series of 10 patients who underwent revision surgery using a Silastic interpositional finger joint arthroplasty. Mean age was 60 (range 48–70) years, with a mean interval between primary and revision surgery of 34 (range 12–84) months. Review was performed at an average of 53 (range 21–136) months. Nine of the 10 patients reported improvement in pain, and all patients reported improvement in pinch grip, activities of daily living, and satisfaction at having undergone revision surgery. There were no complications. We found good medium-term results and high satisfaction rates. We advocate this technique as an effective treatment option in these difficult cases, provided other treatable causes of poor outcome are excluded.
Number of suture throws and its impact on the biomechanical properties of the four-strand cruciate locked flexor tendon repair with FiberWire
Authors: Le S. V. , Chiu S. , Meineke R. C. , Williams P. , Wongworawat M. D.
Published: May 2012

FiberWire is a popular suture in flexor tendon repair that allows for early mobilization, but its poor knot-holding properties have raised concerns over the potential effects on tendon healing and strength. We examined how the number of knot throws affects the 2 mm gap force, ultimate tensile strength, and mode of failure in a four-strand cruciate locked tendon repair in porcine flexor tendons in order to elucidate the optimal number of suture throws. There was no effect on the 2 mm gap force with increasing knot throws, but there was a significant increase in ultimate tensile strength. A minimum of six-knot throws prevents unravelling, whereas five out of 10 of repairs unravelled with less than six throws.
The formation of the Hand Club: a 60th anniversary
Authors: Burke F. D.
Published: May 2012

The formation of the Hand Club: a 60th anniversary.
Classically or alternatively activated bovine monocyte-derived macrophages in vitro do not resemble CD163/Calprotectin biased macrophage populations in the teat
Authors: Düvel Anna , Frank Constanze , Schnapper Anke , Schuberth Hans-Joachim , Sipka Anja
Published: May 2012

The functional phenotype of resident macrophages significantly determines the character of an inflammatory response. In this study we identified two phenotypes of tissue macrophages in bovine teat tissue based on expression of Calprotectin and CD163. To investigate a possible link between the dichotomy in phenotype and functional properties of cells in association with different host mediators we set up an in vitro model with bovine monocyte-derived macrophages (MdM). In vitro differentiated MdM invariably and uniformly expressed both antigens. Classically activated MdM (IFN-γ priming and LPS stimulation) showed a decreased CD163 expression while alternative activation (IL-4/IL-13 priming) did not change expression of CD163 and Calprotectin. Differently activated MdM showed a clearly distinct expression of genes related to classical (IL-12, inducible NO synthase) or alternative activation (IL-10, arginase I). The presence of the inflammatory host mediator prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) neither influenced expression of Calprotectin and CD163 nor gene expression profiles in MdM generated in the presence of PGE2 (PGE2-MdM). Supernatants of PGE2-MdM, however, significantly dampened the migration of neutrophilic granulocytes. The results of this study highlight the discrepancy between in vivo and in vitro obtained macrophages and point to the necessity to analyze the functional capacities of bovine tissue macrophages in situ.
Predictive mathematical model of time saved on descents in road cycling achieved through reduction in aerodynamic drag area
Authors: Drory Ami , Yanagisawa Masahiro
Published: May 2012

This paper presents empirically-based simulation results of descent time to completion in road cycling. A mathematical model is formulated to predict time saved on road cycling descents where a cyclist’s position is static through manipulation of aerodynamic drag area, system parameters and initial conditions. Road cyclists often adopt drastic static riding positions on long descents in order to minimize aerodynamic drag and optimize performance, measured as race time to completion. In those riding positions bicycle control is compromised and the risk of fall and injury increases.

The aims of this study were to empirically determine whether there is a difference in aerodynamic drag area associated with the ‘Top-Tube’ descending riding position compared to ‘Normal’ descending riding position, and to investigate the effect of the difference on time to completion of road descents.

Two elite male Australian time-trial cyclists were tested in an open jet wind tunnel. Drag force was measured using a force platform and a custom air bearing drag measurement system at 50 Hz at wind velocity of 15.6 m/s. Athletes were tested in their ‘Normal’ descending position and in the ‘Top-Tube’ position. Based on Newtonian–Lagrangian equations of motion of the cyclist–bicycle system, an analogue mathematical model as a non-linear Riccati ordinary differential equation was developed to enable prediction of velocity and time to completion of a road cycling course descent of known length and gradient as measures of performance for an athlete of known mass and empirically determined drag area in a descending position. Previously, proposed models of cycling performance have been based on physiological, anthropometric, and mechanical power output. No general closed-form time-to-completion mathematical model for cycling was found in the literature. Analytical solutions allow for a concise investigation of a dynamical system model behaviour that is not as readily available with a numerical solution.

Wind tunnel testing showed up to 25% reduction in drag area for changes to cyclists riding position from their ‘Normal’ to the ‘Top-Tube’ dropped descending position. The analytical solution to the nonlinear Riccati differential equation showed that large time savings as a result of reduction of drag area can be made on road cycling race descents. In the example scenario simulated here, 29.2 s may be saved on a 5 km descent of 10% gradient with 25% reduction in aerodynamic drag area (CdA).

The ‘Top-Tube’ riding position is associated with a large reduction in aerodynamic drag area in road descents compared to conventional descending riding position. Our model enables the prediction of time to completion on descents. This may assist cyclists to assess the trade-off between undertaking increased risk associated with drastic rider descending position and the potential for improved performance in the context of race tactics and strategy.
The Efficacy of the Web ABC Program on Improving Coping, Self-Competence, and Quality of Life in Chinese American Adolescents
Authors: Chen Jyu-Lin , Cooper Bruce
Published: May 2012

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to examine the efficacy of the healthy lifestyle promotion program on psychosocial well-being among Chinese American adolescents. Methods. A randomized control study design was used. Adolescents in this study received 8 weekly online lessons and completed questionnaires regarding their self-competence, coping strategies, and quality of life at baseline and 2 months, 6 months, and 8 months after the baseline assessment. The primary caregiver completed questionnaires regarding parents’ demographic information at baseline. Findings. A total of 54 adolescents participated in the study (27 in the intervention and 27 in the control group). Results indicate that in contrast to the control group, adolescents in the intervention group increased their use of active coping strategies ( P = .0001) while decreasing the use of avoidance coping strategies ( P = .002), and increased their levels of competence in school ( P = .009). Physical appearance ( P = .001), conduct ( P = .001), and emotional quality of life ( P = .031) improved. Conclusions. A Web-based healthy lifestyle promotion program that incorporates coping skills training (CST) and stress management can improve psychosocial well-being in adolescents. Interventions for improving healthy lifestyles in adolescents need to incorporate information related to cognitive CST and problem-solving skills.
The Interactive Role of Implicit and Explicit Partner Evaluations on Ongoing Affective and Behavioral Romantic Realities
Authors: LeBel Etienne P. , Campbell Lorne
Published: May 2012

Past research on close relationships has increasingly focused on the assessment of implicit constructs to shed new light on relationship processes. However, virtually nothing is known about the role of such constructs in understanding ongoing affective and behavioral romantic realities and how implicit and explicit relationship constructs interact in the context of daily relationship outcomes. Using a 21-day diary approach, the present research examined the unique and interactive role of implicit partner evaluations and explicit partner perceptions on relationship outcomes (daily relationship quality and positive relationship behaviors enacted toward partner). Results showed that more positive implicit partner evaluations uniquely predicted more positive relationship outcomes during the 21-day diary period, but that this was especially pronounced in individuals who did not explicitly perceive their partner’s attributes in an overly positive manner. Implications for the close relationship literature are discussed.
Reducing the distance: providing challenging and engaging online postgraduate education in pain management
Authors: Devonshire Elizabeth , Henderson Sarah E
Published: May 2012

Summary points

1. Health professionals need access to flexible, high-quality, advanced education in pain management.

2. There are multiple pedagogical distances to be negotiated in the delivery of effective postgraduate education.

3. A critical consideration in the design and delivery of effective online learning for postgraduate education in pain management is how to: actively engage students in the learning process; and encourage students to become lifelong learners.

4. Conceptual frameworks for encouraging student interaction online provide a useful tool in the design of postgraduate online learning activities.
Evaluating the impact of pain education: how do we know we have made a difference?
Authors: Briggs Emma
Published: May 2012

Summary points

1. Education is a core activity for most healthcare professionals working in pain management and an effective evaluation strategy should assess its impact.

2. Evaluation may have one or more purposes: accountability, development or knowledge generation. Other key principles include making evaluation integral to the education process, reflecting with learners on progress, self-evaluation by the pain educator and involving all the key stakeholders.

3. A wide variety of methods are available, but the choice will be influenced by the nature and amount of the pain education, number of learners, purpose of the evaluation and time and resources available.

4. Patient education can be evaluated through knowledge and attitude questionnaires, concordance with the treatment plan, satisfaction and pain- and disability-related measures.

5. Further research is needed to explore the specific strategies or combination of techniques that are effective for different groups, and build on the theoretical base underpinning effective pain education and evaluation for patients and professionals.

6. The importance of education for the public has also been recently recognised, but this wider educational initiative should also be fully evaluated to assess whether this initiative is making a difference.
Geriatric Fracture Center
Authors: Folbert E. C. Ellis , Smit Ruth S. , van der Velde Detlef , Regtuijt E. M. Marlies , Klaren M. Hester , Hegeman J. H. Han
Published: May 2012

Objective:

Since April 1, 2008, patients aged ≥65 years presenting with a hip fracture at Ziekenhuisgroep Twente, Almelo (ZGT-A), The Netherlands, have been admitted to the geriatric fracture center (GFC) and treated according to the multidisciplinary treatment approach. The objective of this study was to evaluate how implementation of the treatment approach has influenced the quality of care given to older patients with hip fracture.

Design:

Prospective cohort study with historical control group.

Method:

Two groups of patients with hip fracture were compared, 1 group was treated according to the new multidisciplinary treatment approach in 2009-2010, and the other group received the usual treatment in 2007-2008. The number of readmissions within 30 days after discharge was compared, and an analysis was carried out regarding the number of complications, the number of consultations with various specialists and with the geriatrician, and the duration of hospital stay.

Results:

In all, 140 patients from 2009 to 2010 group and 90 patients from 2007 to 2008 group were included. In 2009-2010 group, the number of readmissions within 30 days dropped by 11 percentage points ( P = .001). The incidence of the number of complications decreased with a median of 1 compared with 2007-2008 ( P = .017) group. Delirium was diagnosed to be 6 percentage points more frequent. The median number of consultations with various specialists per patient decreased by 1 percentage point as a result of geriatrician cotreatment ( P = .002). The median duration of hospital stay was 1 day shorter than that in 2007-2008 group.

Conclusion:

The use of the multidisciplinary treatment approach led to a significant reduction in the number of readmissions within 30 days after discharge. It appears to be associated with improved short-term treatment outcomes for older patients with a hip fracture.
Eltrombopag inhibits the proliferation of leukemia cells via reduction of intracellular iron and induction of differentiation
Authors: Roth Michael , Will Britta , Simkin Guillermo , Narayanagari Swathi , Barreyro Laura , Bartholdy Boris , Tamari Roni , Mitsiades Constantine S. , Verma Amit , Steidl Ulrich
Published: May 2012

Eltrombopag (EP) is a small-molecule, nonpeptide thrombopoietin receptor (TPO-R) agonist that has been approved recently for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Prior studies have shown that EP stimulates megakaryopoiesis in BM cells from patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome, and the results also suggested that it may inhibit leukemia cell growth. In the present study, we studied the effects of EP on leukemia cell proliferation and the mechanism of its antiproliferative effects. We found that EP leads to a decreased cell division rate, a block in G1 phase of cell cycle, and increased differentiation in human and murine leukemia cells. Because EP is species specific in that it can only bind TPO-R in human and primate cells, these findings further suggested that the antileukemic effect is independent of TPO-R. We found that treatment with EP leads to a reduction in free intracellular iron in leukemic cells in a dose-dependent manner. Experimental increase of intracellular iron abrogated the antiproliferative and differentiation-inducing effects of EP, demonstrating that its antileukemic effects are mediated through modulation of intracellular iron content. Finally, determination of EP's antileukemic activity in vivo demonstrated its ability to prolong survival in 2 mouse models of leukemia.
Relationship between progression of brain white matter changes and late-life depression: 3-year results from the LADIS study
Authors: Firbank Michael J. , Teodorczuk Andrew , Van Der Flier Wiesje M. , Gouw Alida A. , Wallin Anders , Erkinjuntti Timo , Inzitari Domenico , Wahlund Lars-Olof , Pantoni Leonardo , Poggesi Anna , Pracucci Giovanni , Langhorne Peter , O'Brien John T.
Published: May 2012

Background

Brain white matter changes (WMC) and depressive symptoms are linked, but the directionality of this association remains unclear.

Aims

To investigate the relationship between baseline and incident depression and progression of white matter changes.

Method

In a longitudinal multicentre pan-European study (Leukoaraiosis and Disability in the elderly, LADIS), participants aged over 64 underwent baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and clinical assessments. Repeat scans were obtained at 3 years. Depressive outcomes were assessed in terms of depressive episodes and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). Progression of WMC was measured using the modified Rotterdam Progression scale.

Results

Progression of WMC was significantly associated with incident depression during year 3 of the study (P = 0.002) and remained significant after controlling for transition to disability, baseline WMC and baseline history of depression. There was no significant association between progression of WMC and GDS score, and no significant relationship between progression of WMC and history of depression at baseline.

Conclusions

Our results support the vascular depression hypothesis and implicate WMC as causal in the pathogenesis of late-life depression.
Guest Editors' Introduction: How Is Neoliberalism Good to Think Vietnam? How Is Vietnam Good to Think Neoliberalism?
Authors: Schwenkel Christina , Leshkowich Ann Marie
Published: May 2012

The recent global economic crisis has called into question triumphalist narratives of neoliberal capitalism and its global uniformity. In this introduction to the special issue on Vietnam, we examine Vietnamese “market socialism” as a fertile site for considering how transnational neoliberalism and state socialism have intersected to shape knowledge, governmentality, and everyday cultural practices. We ask, how does the endurance of socialist interpretive frameworks and logics of morality contest or rework neoliberalism and its global modes of regulation? Conversely, how might socialist continuities work in conjunction with neoliberalism to affirm its basic tenets? We argue for an understanding of transnational neoliberalism as a globally diverse set of technical practices, institutions, modes of power, and governing strategies informed by cultural and historical particularities. We caution against addressing “neoliberalism” as a uniform project that signifies the retreat of government or the triumph of a global market economy that fetishizes the “free”; instead we call for more attention to the ways in which socialism is deeply, though unevenly, woven into particular cultural forms, political practices, and historical legacies to ask, What if anything is unique about “neoliberalism” in socialist Vietnam, and to what extent is neoliberalism a useful lens for thinking through contemporary socioeconomic change in Vietnam?
Antisocial behaviour in children with and without callous-unemotional traits
Authors: Viding Essi , Fontaine Nathalie MG , McCrory Eamon J
Published: May 2012

More than 15 years of research have documented behavioural differences between callous-unemotional and non-callous subtypes of children with antisocial behaviour. Recent studies also suggest that children with callous-unemotional traits may be genetically vulnerable to antisocial behaviour, while those without callous-unemotional traits appear to have primarily environmental aetiology to their antisocial behaviour. Furthermore neurocognitive profiles differ between antisocial children with and without callous-unemotional traits. While the former group appears emotionally under-reactive, particularly to others' distress, the latter group may be emotionally over-reactive, particularly to perceived threat. In this review we provide an overview of the current evidence base with regard to callous-unemotional and non-callous subgroups of children with antisocial behaviour and discuss the implications of the current evidence base for prevention and intervention. This overview selectively focuses on recent advances in this area of research, as well as earlier studies where these help set the research context.
Extraction of Mogroside and Limonin with Different Extraction Methods and its Modeling
Authors: Liu Jing , Liu Can , Rong Yonghai , Rong Long
Published: May 2012

The extraction yields of mogroside from Siraitia grosvenorii fruits and limonin from orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco) seeds were compared with different extraction methods, respectively. Maceration extraction, stirring extraction, ultrasonic extraction and flash extraction were used for the extraction. The extraction process was modeled using the concept of thin film which provides the resistance to transfer. The results showed that the maximum yields of mogroside (4.11%) and limonin (0.65%) were obtained by ultrasonic extraction and flash extraction respectively. Owing to its shorter extraction time, flash extraction would be an economical method for the mass production of triterpenes from natural products. The model was found to be fit for the comparison of methods for the extraction and provided good correlation of the data. The model could be mainly used in the practical extraction process.
Multi-level Reactor Optimisation in the Conceptual Design of Processes with Heterogeneous Catalytic Reactors
Authors: Montolio-Rodriguez Daniel , Linke Patrick , Linke David
Published: May 2012

The paper proposes a multi-level approach for process synthesis using process superstructure optimisation. More specifically, we address the introduction of detailed reactor models to explore the effects of non-ideal reactor behaviour during the process synthesis activity after the initial screening of design candidates has been completed using ideal reactor models and high-level design trends extracted to narrow the design space to a few promising process structures. The approach focuses on heterogeneously catalysed gas-phase reaction systems due to their prominence in industrial practice and is illustrated with examples in styrene and acetic acid production.
Zur Funktion von (i)binnaim Neu- und Spätbabylonischen
Authors: Hackl Johannes
Published: May 2012

Der Imperativ (i)binna „gib!“ begegnet vor allem in neu- und spätbabylonischen Urkunden und Briefen. Nach einer Darstellung früherer etymologischer Deutungsversuche befasst sich vorliegende Studie mit den Funktionen, die diese Form auf syntaktischer Ebene übernimmt. Insbesondere soll dabei die Frage nach dem Verhältnis zur suffigierten Kurzform inna „gib!“ geklärt werden.
Synthesis and magnetic properties of manganite thin films on Si by polymer assisted (PAD) and pulsed laser deposition (PLD).
Authors: Vila-Fungueiriño J. M. , Rivas-Murias B. , Rivadulla F.
Published: May 2012

We report the synthesis of polycrystalline films of La1-xCaxMnO3 in Si (111) by Polymer Assisted Deposition (PAD). An aqueous solution polyethyleneimine (PEI) and different metal ions stabilized with EDTA, was spin coated on hydrophilized Si substrates and subsequently annealed under different atmospheres. Homogeneous, dense polycrystalline films are obtained at optimized conditions of 950 ºC under flowing O2. The morphology and magnetic properties of the samples are compared with films obtained by Pulsed Laser Deposition.
"De veraneo en la playa": pertencimento e o familiar no turismo de massa no Mediterrâneo
Authors: Caletrío Javier
Published: May 2012

Os estudos do turismo destacam a busca pela novidade e o exótico, enfatizando o papel da classe social na determinação de sensibilidades estéticas. Este artigo problematiza tal postura por meio do exame empírico dos sentimentos e práticas levados a cabo por turistas no mediterrâneo espanhol. Sugere-se que, para compreender mudanças culturais e ambientais no turismo daquela região, é preciso focar na relação entre sensibilidades estéticas, sentidos de pertencimento e redes sociais. Conclui postulando que estudos do turismo devem levar a história mais fortemente em conta para compreender pontos de inflexão críticos e dependências de trajetória a influenciar transformações da paisagem.
Um Rio de florestas: uma reflexão sobre o sentido da criação dos parques na cidade do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Fernandez Annelise Caetano Fraga
Published: May 2012

A implantação de uma área protegida é resultado de concepções, projetos e decisões legais que, ao longo de sua existência, delimitam e definem usos para uma realidade natural pré-existente. O presente trabalho descreve o processo de criação e implantação do Parque Nacional da Tijuca e do Parque Estadual da Pedra Branca, buscando compreender de que forma ambos os parques "dialogam entre si", expressam, em seus territórios e através de representações a eles atribuídas, as marcas de ideários conservacionistas, e assumem novas dimensões simbólicas em interação permanente com o espaço urbano do Rio de Janeiro.
Priming of Stylosanthes seeds
Authors: Alencar Karina Margareti de Castilio , Rodrigues Adriana Paula D'Agostini Contreiras , Pereira Silvia Rahe , Laura Valdemir Antônio
Published: May 2012

It is estimated that 60% of the area of cultivated pasture, in the Brazilian Savannah, is degraded or in process of degradation, due to, among other causes, the lack of nitrogen. The Stylosanthes genus is the legume which has the greater number of cultivars used in tropical pastures, however, its seeds have characteristics which can difficult the formation of an adequate stand of plants on pasture. In this research the aim was to evaluate the effects of priming in the speed and uniformity of the Stylosanthes capitata, S. macrocephala and S. guianensis seeds germination. The seeds were kept for 12, 24, 36 and 48 hours in aired media PEG 6,000 at 0.0, -0.5, -1.0 and -1.5MPa. Afterwards, they were sent to the germination test. The variables analyzed were germination percent, germination speed index (GSI) and average germination time (AGT). For S. capitata it is recommended priming at 0.0 MPa for 10 hours, and for S. macrocephala the recommended potential is -0.5 MPa. However, for the S. guianensis the priming is not recommended under the time and potentials evaluated in this research.
Antitumor Effects of Somatostatin Analogs in Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Sidéris Lucas , Dubé Pierre , Rinke Anja
Published: May 2012

Background.

For decades, somatostatin analogs (including octreotide and lanreotide) have been indicated for relief of the symptoms of flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing associated with secretory neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Recently, it has been suggested that somatostatin analogs may provide direct and indirect antitumor effects in secretory and nonsecretory NETs in addition to symptom control in secretory NETs.

Methods.

A systematic review of MEDLINE was conducted to identify studies that investigated the antitumor effects of octreotide or lanreotide for patients with NETs. Additional studies not published in the peer-reviewed literature were identified by searching online abstracts.

Results.

In all, 17 octreotide trials and 11 lanreotide trials that included antitumor effects were identified. Partial response rates were between 0% and 31%, and stable disease rates were between 15% and 89%. Octreotide was the only somatostatin analog for which results of a phase III, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial that investigated antitumor effects were published. After 6 months of treatment in this randomized phase III trial, stable disease was observed in 67% of patients (hazard ratio for time to disease progression: 0.34; 95% confidence interval: 0.20–0.59; p = .000072).

Conclusions.

In addition to symptom control for NETs, the data support an antitumor effect of somatostatin analogs and suggest that they may slow tumor growth. Long-acting repeatable octreotide has been shown to have an antitumor effect in a randomized phase III trial in midgut NETs, whereas results are pending in a corresponding controlled trial with lanreotide for patients with intestinal and pancreatic primary NETs.
Sustainable use of natural resources indicator
Authors: Harrison Thomas Alexander , Collins David
Published: May 2012

A system for determining a single indicator to reflect the sustainability of abiotic and biotic resources used to manufacture construction products and functional units is presented. The indicator reflects the availablity in nature of a natural resource for future generations and the quantity of secondary materials incorporated into the product. The indicator includes the natural resources used to provide the energy used in the extraction, transportation and manufacture of the product or functional unit over part or all of the life cycle. Each natural resource is placed in a residual life class. The totals for each class can be used to provide information on the sustainability of the natural resources used to manufacture a construction product as needed by ‘basic requirement for construction works 7: sustainable use of natural resources’, of the Construction Products Regulation. The residual life classes are converted into an impact score. A weighting system is included that is proportionally greater for natural resources with shorter residual lives. The ‘impact score’ can be used as one indicator in an environmental product declaration.
Briefing: London 2012 Olympic Park transport and environmental management schemes
Authors: Vicat Alison , Rooney Chris
Published: May 2012

The London 2012 Olympic Park transport and environmental management schemes framework was established through the planning process and subsequent S106 of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games 2007 planning consent. It provides a mechanism to allow the host boroughs to mitigate the effects of the London 2012 Olympic Park development through environmental transport management procedures, rather than only junction capacity schemes. This satisfied the boroughs’ sustainability ambitions and assisted delivery of the Olympic Delivery Authority's primary sustainability aims.
Briefing: Specifying concrete for sustainability
Authors: Higgins Denis
Published: May 2012

Until recently, specifications for concrete have concentrated on ensuring the required strength and durability. Nowadays, many clients are also concerned with sustainability and are looking to reduce environmental burdens. This briefing explains how to minimise the embodied carbon dioxide associated with manufacturing concrete.
Donor-Specific Antibodies after Ceasing Immunosuppressive Therapy, with or without an Allograft Nephrectomy
Authors: Del Bello Arnaud , Congy-Jolivet Nicolas , Sallusto Federico , Guilbeau-Frugier Celine , Cardeau-Desangles Isabelle , Fort Marylise , Esposito Laure , Guitard Joelle , Cointault Olivier , Lavayssière Laurence , Nogier Marie Béatrice , Blancher Antoine , Rostaing Lionel , Kamar Nassim
Published: May 2012

Background and objectives

Within the last few years, anti–human leukocyte antigen detection assays have significantly improved. This study asked, using the Luminex single-antigen assay, whether an allograft nephrectomy allowed donor-specific alloantibodies to appear that were not previously detected in the serum when the failed kidney was still in place.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

After losing the kidney allograft and stopping immunosuppressive therapy, the proportions of donor-specific alloantibodies and nondonor-specific alloantibodies were compared in patients who had (n=48; group I) and had not (n=21; group II) undergone an allograft nephrectomy. Allograft nephrectomies were performed at 150 days after kidney allograft loss, and the time between allograft nephrectomy and last follow-up was 538±347 days.

Results

At kidney allograft loss, donor-specific alloantibodies were detected in three group II patients (14.2%) and six group I patients (12.5%). At last follow-up, donor-specific alloantibodies were detected in 11 patients (52.4%) without and 39 patients (81%) with an allograft nephrectomy (P=0.02). Anti–human leukocyte antigen class I donor-specific alloantibodies were positive in 23.8% of group II and 77% of group I patients (P<0.001); anti–human leukocyte antigen class II donor-specific alloantibodies were positive in 42.8% of group II and 62.5% of group I patients. Independent predictive factors for developing donor-specific alloantibodies after losing kidney allograft and stopping immunosuppressants were number of anti–human leukocyte antigen A/B mismatches at transplantation (zero versus one or more) and allograft nephrectomy.

Conclusions

The development of donor-specific alloantibodies was significantly greater in patients with a failed kidney who had undergone an allograft nephrectomy compared with those patients who had not undergone allograft nephrectomy.
Superficial temporal artery–middle cerebral artery bypass using local anesthesia and a sedative without endotracheal general anesthesia
Authors: Kaku Yasuhiko , Yamashita Kentaro , Kokuzawa Jouji , Kanou Kiyomitsu , Tsujimoto Masanori
Published: May 2012

Object

Superficial temporal artery (STA)–middle cerebral artery (MCA) bypasses have continually evolved, and new strategies have been advocated for reducing anesthetic or surgical morbidity and mortality. Further simplifying, and decreasing the invasiveness of, STA-MCA bypass by performing this operation without endotracheal general anesthesia was believed to be feasible in certain subsets of patients.

Methods

The authors performed STA-MCA bypass using local anesthesia with a sedative in 10 patients with hemodynamically compromised occlusive cerebrovascular disease, as well as multiple comorbidities, between February 2010 and September 2011. The technique is based on the preoperative identification of the point at which the donor and recipient vessels are in closest proximity. Preoperative use of CT angiography allowed the authors to identify the target point precisely and use a minimally invasive procedure. All patients received dexmedetomidine as the sole sedative agent, together with scalp-blocking local anesthesia, with an unsecured airway.

Results

Successful STA-MCA bypass surgeries were achieved via a preselected minimally invasive approach in all cases. There was good hemodynamic stability throughout surgery. No airway or ventilation complications occurred, and no patients were converted to general anesthesia. Subjectively, patients tolerated the technique well with a high rate of satisfaction. There were no perioperative morbidities or deaths. Postoperative MR angiography confirmed a patent bypass in all patients. All patients remained symptom free and returned to normal daily life following the operation.

Conclusions

This initial experience confirms the feasibility of performing STA-MCA bypass without endotracheal general anesthesia. This novel technique produced a high degree of patient satisfaction.
A 3D environment for anulus fibrosus regeneration
Authors: Cabraja Mario , Endres Michaela , Hegewald Aldemar A. , Vetterlein Samuel , Thomé Claudius , Woiciechowsky Christian , Kaps Christian
Published: May 2012

Object

Biological repair strategies for the treatment of degenerated intervertebral discs are of growing interest. In addition to the development of nucleus pulposus implants to restore disc height and relieve pain, there is growing demand for an appropriate method for reconstructing the anulus fibrosus (AF). The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the applicability of a resorbable 3D polymer of pure polyglycolic acid (PGA) combined with hyaluronan for the use in cell-free and cell-based regeneration and repair of the AF.

Methods

Adult human AF cells were expanded in vitro using human serum and rearranged three dimensionally in hyaluronan-PGA scaffolds that were stabilized with fibrin for in vitro analyses. The capacity of dedifferentiated AF cells to redifferentiate was evaluated after 2 weeks of culture, using propidium iodide/fluorescein diacetate staining, gene expression analysis of typical marker genes, and histological staining of proteoglycans.

Results

The propidium iodide/fluorescein diacetate staining demonstrated that vital human AF cells were evenly distributed within the construct. The induction of typical AF marker genes such as collagen Types I–III indicated the initiation of AF redifferentiation by 3D assembly in hyaluronan-PGA. Histological analysis of the constructs showed initial formation of an AF-like matrix comprising proteoglycans.

Conclusions

The results suggest that the 3D arrangement of human AF cells in resorbable hyaluronan-PGA scaffolds cultured in the presence of human serum is an excellent system for AF cell redifferentiation.