bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergent synthesis of new N -substituted 2-{[5-(1H -indol-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]sulfanyl}acetamides as suitable therapeutic agents
Authors: Rubab Kaniz , Abbasi Muhammad Athar , Aziz-ur-Rehman  , Siddiqui Sabahat Zahra , Ashraf Muhammad , Shaukat Ayesha , Ahmad Irshad , Lodhi Muhammad Arif , Khan Farman Ali , Shahid Muhammad , Akhtar Muhammad Nadeem
Published: April 2016

abstract A series of N-substituted 2-{[5-(1H-indol-3-ylmethyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]sulfanyl}acetamides (8a-w) was synthesized in three steps. The first step involved the sequential conversion of 2-(1H-indol-3-yl)acetic acid (1) to ester (2) followed by hydrazide (3) formation and finally cyclization in the presence of CS2 and alcoholic KOH yielded 5-(1H-indole-3-yl-methyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol (4). In the second step, aryl/aralkyl amines (5a-w) were reacted with 2-bromoacetyl bromide (6) in basic medium to yield 2-bromo-N-substituted acetamides (7a-w). In the third step, these electrophiles (7a-w) were reacted with 4 to afford the target compounds (8a-w). Structural elucidation of all the synthesized derivatives was done by 1H-NMR, IR and EI-MS spectral techniques. Moreover, they were screened for antibacterial and hemolytic activity. Enzyme inhibition activity was well supported by molecular docking results, for example, compound 8q exhibited better inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase, while 8g and 8b exhibited comparatively better inhibition against butyrylcholinesterase and lipoxygenase, respectively. Similarly, compounds 8b and 8c showed very good antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi, which was very close to that of ciprofloxacin, a standard antibiotic used in this study. 8c and 8l also showed very good antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus as well. Almost all compounds showed very slight hemolytic activity, where 8p exhibited the least. Therefore, the molecules synthesized may have utility as suitable therapeutic agents.
Amiodarone hydrochloride: enhancement of solubility and dissolution rate by solid dispersion technique
Authors: Rubim Alexandre Machado , Rubenick Jaqueline Bandeira , Gregolin Eduarda , Laporta Luciane Varini , Leitenberg Rosimar , Rolim Clarice Madalena Bueno
Published: April 2016

abstract Amiodarone HCl is an antiarrhythmic agent, which has low aqueous solubility and presents absorption problems. This study aimed to develop inclusion complexes containing hydrophilic carriers PEG 1500, 4000 and 6000 by fusion and kneading methods in order to evaluate the increase in solubility and dissolution rate of amiodarone HCl. The solid dispersion and physical mixtures were characterized by X-ray diffraction, FT-IR spectra, water solubility and dissolution profiles. Both methods and carriers increased the solubility of drug, however PEG 6000 enhanced the drug solubility in solid dispersion better than other carriers. Different media were evaluated for the solubility study, including distilled water, acid buffer pH 1.2, acetate buffer pH 4.5 and phosphate buffer pH 6.8 at 37 ºC. Based on the evaluation of the results obtained in the study phase solubility carriers PEG 4000 and PEG 6000 were selected for the preparation of the physical mixture and solid dispersion. All formulations were prepared at drug-carrier ratios of 1:1 to 1:10(w/w). The results of in vitro release studies indicated that the solid dispersion technique by fusion method in proportion of 1:10 (w/w) increased significantly the dissolution rate of the drug. X-ray diffraction studies showed reduced drug crystallinity in the solid dispersions. FT-IR demonstrated interactions between the drug and polymers.
Intravital and Kidney Slice Imaging of Podocyte Membrane Dynamics
Authors: Brähler Sebastian , Yu Haiyang , Suleiman Hani , Krishnan Gokul M. , Saunders Brian T. , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Miner Jeffrey H. , Zinselmeyer Bernd H. , Shaw Andrey S.
Published: April 2016

In glomerular disease, podocyte injury results in a dramatic change in cell morphology known as foot process effacement. Remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton through the activity of small GTPases was identified as a key mechanism in effacement, with increased membrane activity and motility in vitro. However, whether podocytes are stationary or actively moving cells in vivo remains debated. Using intravital and kidney slice two–photon imaging of the three-dimensional structure of mouse podocytes, we found that uninjured podocytes remained nonmotile and maintained a canopy-shaped structure over time. On expression of constitutively active Rac1, however, podocytes changed shape by retracting processes and clearly exhibited domains of increased membrane activity. Constitutive activation of Rac1 also led to podocyte detachment from the glomerular basement membrane, and we detected detached podocytes crawling on the surface of the tubular epithelium and occasionally, in contact with peritubular capillaries. Podocyte membrane activity also increased in the inflammatory environment of immune complex–mediated GN. Our results provide evidence that podocytes transition from a static to a dynamic state in vivo, shedding new light on mechanisms in foot process effacement.
El Diálogo Interreligioso como Herramienta para Desactivar el Prejuicio
Authors: Condom Bosch Josep Lluis , Rodríguez Jose Antonio , Burgues Freitas Ana , Valls i Carol Maria Rosa
Published: April 2016

Nuestras sociedades se caracterizan por una alta diversidad cultural y religiosa, característica que no deja de acrecentarse. Ello formula numerosos retos de gestión en el espacio público, entendido como espacio de interacción. La manifestación de discriminación por motivos culturales y especialmente religiosos es uno de los desafíos mayores. La escuela se presenta como un espacio con grandes oportunidades para esta gestión. Por ello el artículo ha querido profundizar desde la revisión de la literatura científica internacional identificando en primer lugar los obstáculos que existen para esta gestión. Y en segundo lugar se ha querido identificar las experiencias y factores que a nivel internacional están favoreciendo la gestión de la diversidad religiosa. Favorecer el diálogo interreligioso se erige como un factor clave para  desactivar el prejuicio existente entre grupos y favorecer la convivencia en sociedades diversas.
Los Servicios de Inteligencia Ante el Holocausto: Entre la Ética y las Razones de Estado
Authors: Boltaina Bosch Xavier
Published: April 2016

El Holocausto ha sido uno de los períodos más infaustos de la Historia europea del siglo XX. El genocidio “industrial” de seis millones de judíos y de otros colectivos de ciudadanos, como los gitanos, homosexuales o personas con discapacidad es una de las cuestiones históricas más extensamente estudiadas. No debe olvidarse, además, que es imposible de conocer el número total de víctimas no sólo judías, pues se calcula que aproximadamente siete millones de no judíos fueron asesinados por la Alemania nazi o la muerte de tres millones de soldados soviéticos en los campos nazis entre 1941 y 1945, víctimas de crímenes de guerra. El objetivo este artículo, que forma parte de un trabajo de investigación más amplio – en fase de elaboración- , se centrará exclusivamente en un aspecto poco estudiado. Son contadas las investigaciones sobre la inteligencia aliada en cuanto al Holocausto, en los contornos específicos que aquí planteamos, como tampoco ante otros genocidios y crímenes contra la humanidad.
La Heurística del Antisemitismo Contemporáneo
Authors: Torrens i Llambrich Xavier
Published: April 2016

En Europa, habida cuenta que el genocidio nazi se había legitimado en el prejuicio antijudío de arraigo bimilenario, ¿el antisemitismo desapareció tras el Holocausto? A partir de este interrogante, como cabe esperar, las preguntas surgen inevitablemente: ¿el antisemitismo se reduce a las expresiones políticas de la extrema derecha?, ¿el antisemitismo hoy se asienta en una parte exigua de la población o bien, por el contrario, sigue expandido en la sociedad civil y las instituciones de los países democráticos, como lo están profusamente y difusamente otros prejuicios, tales como el sexismo, la homofobia, el racismo o la aporofobia? ¿Resulta difícil desentrañar qué es y qué no antisemitismo? El objetivo del artículo es analizar cómo se construye el discurso antisemita en la actualidad.
Common and professional psychological help: conceptual framework and issues
Authors: Sheryagina E.V.
Published: April 2016

The article is devoted to the analysis of some phenomena of professional and non- professional (“common”) help. Approaches to the study of assistance forms and strategies that are linked with empathy, consolation and support are viewed. The approach to description, analysis and classification of such forms is introduced. The results of the pilot study of consolation strategies using “Consolation situations” projective test are presented.
The trajectory change of theory of mind in the elderly
Authors: Melehin A.
Published: April 2016

Theory of mind is viewed as a cognitive mechanism of social cognition. Features of social cognition and theory of mind are differentiated. Studies of cognitive and affective components of theory of mind in old age are summarized. Heterogeneous changes of theory of mind show that the deficit in the ability to understand the mind of another is not total, but selective. Factors (neuroanatomical, cognitive, psychosocial, etc.) influencing the theory of mind in old age are systematized. Strategies of enhancing theory of mind in old age are described.
Personality Changes as a Result of Life Enhancement Work
Authors: Leontiev D.A. , Miyuzova А.Е.
Published: April 2016

The paper presents empirical analysis of possible effects of participating in the author’s life enhancement master-classes and seminars of discovering existential experience. Original qualitative methods were used in the study: description of changes with subsequent content analysis and factor analysis of the categories, and visual method “Trajectory”. Both methods revealed satisfactory reliability, valid- ity and richness of content. It can be claimed that the effects of life enhancement work include changing the attitude to uncertainty and subjective expansion of per- ceived possibilities.
The History of Psychotherapy. Lecture 2. Historical Background of Psychotherapy (Part II)
Authors: Grinshpun I.B.
Published: April 2016

The paper continues the cycle of lectures by Igor Borisovitch Grinshpun on his- tory of psychotherapy. The current part recounts the discovery of the unconscious by Austrian physician Josef Breuer (case of Anna O., cathartic method) and French philosopher Pierre Janet. Descriptions of cased are adduced. The question of reliability of these descriptions and falsifications occurring due to complicated relation- ship between psychoanalyst and patient, and the absence of systematic note-taking practice, is raised. Ethical problems of public discussion of cases are reviewed P. Janet’s approach and the specificity of his method in comparison with classic psychoanalysis are analyzed in detail on the basis of clinical cases from his practice. Differences between the notion of the unconscious in the works of psychoanalysts and P. Janet’s, and the latter’s impact on theoretic and practical psychology (his influence on psychoanalysis, ego-psychology, psychodrama, cultural-historical psychology) are noted.
The Experience of Overcoming of Trauma Caused by Getting Acquainted with Archival Investigative Case of Repressed Relative
Authors: Shemanova N.A.
Published: April 2016

The article describes a case when exploring archival investigation file of the repressed and executed relative is accompanied by the emergence of delayed posttraumatic stress disorder. Feelings that emerged during contact with the investigation file: fear, resentment and confusion, shame, the desire to keep a secret are disscussed. The difference between experiences of relatives of the Gulag victims and relatives of victims of other historical events or disasters is examined. The article considers protective and adaptive mechanisms that help to overcome psychological trauma.
Review of the book Cormier S., Hackney L. Counseling Strategies and Interventions, 8th Edition
Authors: Fedunina N.Y.
Published: April 2016

Review of the book Cormier S., Hackney L. Counseling Strategies and Interventions, 8th Edition; published by Moscow: “Naumov and Naumova”, 2016. 348 p.
The Role of Charismatic World Trade Organization and the expansion of Free International Trade
Authors: Saqib Irshad Muhammad , Xin Qi , Ayaz Muhammad
Published: April 2016

One of the most significant occurrences over the last two decades in the area of economic desegregation was the sharp increase in bilateral, multilateral and regional trading arrangements since the end of the Uruguay Round in 1994. It is extensively believed that the international trade organization, WTO, increases trading systems and encourages trade. Pursuing free trade by WTO has numerous attractions. It is clear that free trade enhanced among WTO member countries but seems most favorable for rich countries and little bit glitch for developing nations. Countries bind themselves and their trading collaborators to transparent and non-discriminatory trade regulations and rules, which the WTO then implements even handedly. As a consequence, much consideration is paid to the exceptional needs and tribulations of developing and transition economies.
Managerial Efficiency- Key Driver towards the Profitability of Indian Commercial Banks in Turbulent Time
Authors: Soni Dr. Rashmi
Published: April 2016

A Strong financial system is important for any nation to face the challenges of post globalization era. The major challenges that are faced by Indian banking industry are the role of financial instrumentation in different phases of the business cycle, the emerging compulsions of the new prudential norms and benchmarking the Indian financial system against international standards and best practices. These challenges can be met with efficient human resource management. Human resource management (HRM) practices are being increasingly considered as major contributory factors in financial performance of commercial banks. This research study aims at knowing the HRM practices in commercial banks operating in India and to correlate bank’s performance and HRM practices. The study also identifies the HR challenges faced by the banks and while concluding the research the study suggests improving managerial efficiency and excellence in commercial banks which can be achieved through HRM practices.
El hombre unidimensional fragmentado
Authors: Rodríguez del Pino Juan Antonio
Published: April 2016

Parafraseamos el título del conocido ensayo de Herbert Marcuse, puesto que la imagen que tradicionalmente se ha generado del hombre, de la masculinidad, ha sido unidimensional. Es decir, el hombre se caracterizaba por unos rasgos y conductas establecidos y afianzados desde tiempos remotos, considerándose todas las demás señas diferenciadoras como meras desviaciones impropias de lo normativo. Pero observaremos que esta realidad incuestionable, tal y como han analizado diversos investigadores a través de lo que se ha venido en denominar Men’s studies, ha demostrado ser una falacia difícil de mantener a lo largo de la historia y que en la actualidad deviene en falaz e inoperante frente a los cambios existentes en nuestros actuales modelos societarios.
Control social del tráfico y empoderamiento social. Grupos de riesgo: jóvenes y mayores
Authors: De Dios Izquierdo Juan , Torres Kumbrían Rubén Darío , Martínez Laura
Published: April 2016

La evolución demográfica en Europa ha transformado la pirámide de edad y la pirámide de conductores hacia una pirámide invertida. Septuagenarios, octogenarios y nonagenarios inundan las carreteras, sin que se hayan adoptado las medidas de adecuación ergonómicas correspondientes. En el lado contrario, encontramos que la causa principal de muerte hasta los 34 años son los accidentes de tráfico, que se ceban con los jóvenes y niños. Se han puesto en marcha muchas medidas represivas que han dado resultados positivos. Pero hasta que los gobiernos no entiendan que es la sociedad, el control social del tráfico, el factor social, quien puede poner remedio, seguirá la pandemia.
La dimensión temporal de los inmigrantes andinos en la ciudad de Madrid
Authors: Ruiz Blázquez Juan José
Published: April 2016

Este artículo es el resumen de una investigación acerca de cómo una determinada concepción temporal de la existencia genera un tipo de subjetividad e identidad. Estos dos conceptos nos han servido para comprender los procesos de vulnerabilidad social de los emigrantes andinos, especialmente ecuatorianos, en la ciudad de Madrid. Para acercarnos a sus trayectorias personales y sociales hemos producido material biográfico mediante lo que hemos denominado narraciones de vida, relatos fruto de entrevistas en profundidad, para así desentrañar cómo el tiempo y el espacio son variables fundamentales para entender la mentalidad y el imaginario cultural de los inmigrantes, en definitiva, sus trayectorias de adaptación al país de destino.
THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES AND CHARACTERIZATIONS OF CHITOSANNANO-PARTICLES CORROSION INHIBITION ON THE SURFACE OF MILD STEELIN PEAT WATER MEDIA
Authors: Erna Maria
Published: April 2016

The thermodynamic properties and characterizations of corrosion inhibition of chitosan nano-particles on the surface of mild steel in peat water media had been studied using weight loss method at temperatures of 30 - 50 oC. Steel surfaces were characterized by FT-IR spectra and SEM-EDS morphology photos. The research found that the value of DGo approaching -40 kJmol-1. The negative value of Gibbs free energy shows that the adsorption of inhibitor molecules on the surface of mild steel was achemisorption and it occurred spontaneously. Meanwhile, the values of DHo is also negative confirming that the adsoprtion of inhibitor molecules is an exothermic process. The value of DSo obtained is positive, it indicates hat the inhibitor molecules were adsorbed spontaneously on the mild steel surface. The analysis on mild steel surfaces hows that the nano-particle chitosan was adsorbed on the steel surface to form the complex compounds. 
Linking discolouration modelling and biofilm behaviour within drinking water distribution systems
Authors: Husband S. , Fish K. E. , Douterelo I. , Boxall J.
Published: April 2016

High quality drinking water exits modern treatment works, yet water quality degradation such as discolouration continues to occur within drinking water distribution systems (DWDS). Discolouration is observed globally, suggesting a common process despite variations in source, treatment, disinfection and network configurations. The primary cause of discolouration has been identified as mobilisation of particulate material from pipe walls and the verified Prediction of Discolouration in Distribution Systems (PODDS) model uses measurable network hydraulics to simulate this response. In this paper the cohesive properties of discolouration material are explored and it is hypothesised that in simulating the turbidity response, the PODDS model is actually describing the development and cohesive strength behaviour of biofilms. Applying this concept can therefore facilitate a rapid and simple assessment of DWDS biofilm activity. A review of the findings from PODDS studies conducted internationally is presented, focussing on the macro or observable aspects of discolouration. These are compared and contrasted with associated biofilm studies which consider discolouration material at the micro-scale. Combining the results from these (past) studies to improve the understanding of interactions between microbial ecology and discolouration are discussed with a view to DWDS operational strategies that safeguard and optimise drinking water supply.
Pseudomonas sp. CL7 from Sludge Removed 2,3,4,6‐Tetrachlorophenol in Vivo and in Vitro Condition
Authors: Karn Santosh Kumar , Reddy M. Sudhakara , Chakrabarti Swapan Kumar
Published: April 2016

The present research focused on 2,3,4,6‐Tetrachlorophenol (2,3,4,6‐TeCP) mineralizing bacterium from the sludge of pulp and paper industry and identified as Pseudomonas sp. CL7 by 16s rRNA gene sequences analysis. This isolate degraded 2,3,4,6‐TeCP as indicated by stoichiometric release of chloride and biomass formation. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that Pseudomonas sp. (CL7) was able to mineralize a higher concentration of 2,3,4,6‐TeCP (600 mg/l or 2.5 mM) than any previously reported 2,3,4,6‐TeCP degrading bacteria. As the concentration of 2,3,4,6‐TeCP increased from 50 (0.21 mM) to 600 mg/l (2.5 mM), the reduction in the cell growth was observed and the 2,3,4,6‐TeCP degradation was more than 85% in all the concentrations in the present study. CL7 was able to remove 100% of 2,3,4,6‐TeCP from the sludge (in vitro condition) when supplemented with 100 mg/l (0.42 mM) of 2,3,4,6‐TeCP and grown for two weeks. This study showed that CL7 can be used for bioremediation of 2,3,4,6‐TeCP.
Statistical Correlation between Ligninolytic Enzymes Secretion and Remazol Brilliant Yellow‐3GL Dye Degradation Potential of Trametes versicolor IBL‐04
Authors: Asgher Muhammad , Shah Syed Agha Hassan , Iqbal Hafiz Muhammad Nasir
Published: April 2016

Trametes versicolor IBL‐04 was used for biodegradation of Remazol Brilliant Yellow 3‐GL (RBY3‐GL) reactive textile dye in Kirk's basal salts medium. During the initial screening study, the maximum decolorization (93.5%) of RBY3‐GL was achieved in 7 days' shaking incubation period at pH 4 and 30 °C. Different physical and nutritional factors were statistically optimized to enhance the efficiency of T. versicolor IBL‐04 for maximum decolorization. Under optimal conditions T. versicolor IBL‐04 completely decolorized (100%) the RBY3‐GL in 2 days of incubation with negligible adsorption on fungal mycelia. Laccase was the major enzyme (938.3 U/mL) secreted by T. versicolor IBL‐04 along with comparatively lower activities of MnP. In this article and for the first time, a statistical correlation has been successfully investigated between the ligninolytic enzymes from an indigenously isolated white rot fungi, T. versicolor IBL‐04, and the degradation of RBY3‐GL.
Optimization of Energy Consumption and Mass Transfer Parameters in a Surface Aeration Vessel
Authors: Mohammadpour A. , AkhavanBehabadi M. A. , Ebrahimzadeh M. , Raisee M. , MajdiNasab A. R. , Nosrati M. , Mousavi S. M.
Published: April 2016

This paper reports tests on a lab‐scale surface aeration vessel was equipped with a Rushton turbine to examine its performance in terms of standard aeration efficiency (SAE), mixing time, and void fraction characteristics. These characteristics were investigated by tests using variations of rotor speed, impeller immersion depth, and water level. Results showed that variation of impeller immersion depth had a greater effect on the SAE compared to variation of water level. Moreover, the SAE increased with rotor speeds up to about 150 to 200 rpm and then decreased. In addition, void fraction improved by impeller immersion depth and rotor speed enhancement; however, mixing time and power number were reduced as rotor speed increased. According to the response surface methodology statistical optimizations, optimum values for rotor speed, impeller immersion depth, and water level were 168.90 rpm, 25 mm, and 30 cm, respectively, to achieve the maximum value of SAE.
Effects of the Release of Soil Organic Matter on Phenanthrene Sorption by Sediments
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyan , Wu Yaoguo , Hu Sihai , Li Tao
Published: April 2016

The release of soil organic matter (SOM) has been frequently studied, while its effects on sorption kinetics and on the capacity of phenanthrene (PHE) on sediments have seldom been studied. In this study, sodium chloride (NaCl, 0‐0.1 mol/L) was introduced to adjust the release of SOM, and three sediments were prepared: a raw sediment (S1), an eluted sediment (S2), and an SOM‐removed sediment (S3). The release of SOM , with dissolved organic matter (DOM) formed in solution, was confirmed in sediment 1. Sorption kinetics on sediment 1 showed atypical results as three stages: rapid sorption, pseudo sorption with partial desorption, and slow sorption. Also, a defined “sorption valley” occurred in the kinetic curve, which can be qualitatively determined by the characteristics of the release of SOM, including its amount, rate and sequence in each SOM fraction. Sorption capacity on sediments 1 and 2 was negatively correlated with aqueous DOM concentrations. By changing sediment characteristics and solution properties, the release of SOM significantly impacts polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) sorption behaviors. These results help clarify the transport of PAHs in sediment‐water systems.
Evaluating Approaches for the Diagnosis of Hemodialysis Catheter–Related Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Quittnat Pelletier Friederike , Joarder Mohammad , Poutanen Susan M. , Lok Charmaine E.
Published: April 2016

Background and objectives

Guideline–recommended diagnostic criteria for hemodialysis (HD) catheter–related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) are based on data from indwelling central catheters in patients not on HD and non-HD situations, and upon which peripheral vein cultures are the gold standard. We aimed to examine the validity of these criteria in patients on HD.

Design, settings, participants, & measurements

Adult patients on in-center HD using catheters were prospectively followed from 2011 to 2014 at a large academic–based HD facility (Toronto, Canada). When a CRBSI was suspected, blood culture sets were obtained from four sites (peripheral vein, both catheter hubs, and HD circuit) to determine the guideline–recommended differential time to positivity (DTTP). DTTP criteria were met when catheter hub cultures turned positive ≥120 minutes before peripheral vein cultures. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were first calculated using peripheral vein cultures as the gold standard and then these same calculations were repeated with additional information, including exit site/catheter tip and HD circuit cultures, as the true gold standard. The feasibility of obtaining peripheral vein cultures was determined.

Results

Of 178 suspected CRBSIs, 100 had peripheral vein blood cultures. Using the true gold standard, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of blood culture results were highest in samples from the HD circuit (93.5%, 100%, and 95%, respectively). The guideline recommended combination of peripheral vein and arterial hub blood cultures was the least sensitive, specific, and accurate (91.7%, 93.1%, and 92.7%, respectively). The diagnostic criteria using measured DTTP were met in less than one third of events.

Conclusions

In patients on HD, blood culture results are the most sensitive, specific, and accurate for diagnosing CRBSIs when taken from the HD circuit and the venous catheter hub, and blood culture results are the least sensitive, specific, and accurate in any combination with peripheral vein cultures. The DTTP does not increase diagnostic accuracy, reducing the necessity for venipuncture and its potential vein damage. Future guidelines should consider the applicability of criterion on specific patient populations and tailor them accordingly.
Update on Ethical Issues in Pediatric Dialysis: Has Pediatric Dialysis Become Morally Obligatory?
Authors: Wightman Aaron G. , Freeman Michael A.
Published: April 2016

Improvements in pediatric dialysis over the past 50 years have made the decision to proceed with dialysis straightforward for the majority of pediatric patients. For certain groups, however, such as children with multiple comorbid conditions, children and families with few social and economic resources, and neonates and infants, the decision of whether to proceed with dialysis remains much more controversial. In this review, we will examine the best available data regarding the outcomes of dialysis in these populations and analyze the important ethical considerations that should guide decisions regarding dialysis for these patients. We conclude that providers must continue to follow a nuanced and individualized approach in decision making for each child and to recognize that, regardless of the decision reached about dialysis, there is a continued duty to care for patients and families to maximize the remaining quality of their lives.
Birds in Portuguese Literature
Authors: Queiroz Ana Isabel , Soares Filipa
Published: April 2016

Birds are emblematic natural elements of landscapes. Readily noticeable and appreciated due to their songs and flight, they have been thoroughly used as components of literary scenarios. This paper analyses their representations in a broad corpus (144 writings by 67 writers) since the nineteenth century, divided in three time-periods. It aims to understand which wild birds are represented in Portuguese literature, how those representations prevail over time, and what literary texts reveal about distribution and abundance of the birds mentioned, linked to major environmental and landscape changes. Based on common names, 112 taxonomic units are identified, corresponding to either one species, species of the same genera or family or a higher taxon. In addition, historical distribution and abundance are extracted from literary texts and compared with data from biological sources, such as ornithological reports, guides, atlas and red data books. We conclude that bird representations are frequent and diversified in terms of taxonomic units, and this richness tends to prevail over time. The most prolific wild bird representations are linked to the writers' own experiences of the Portuguese countryside during their childhood and youth. It is particularly significant in the writers from the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century, with a rural origin, like most of the population. Despite landscape and social changes through time, contemporary literature still reveals a sound knowledge of birds and a proximity and appreciation of nature, which can be explained by the rural ancestry of some current writers, as a kind of countryside nostalgia, and/or the embodiment of an environmental discourse of wildlife preservation.
Faire mieux que la nature? The History of Eel Restocking in Europe
Authors: Dekker Willem , Beaulaton Laurent
Published: April 2016

Young eel, recruiting from the ocean towards Europe, are most abundant along the Atlantic coast of France. Since 1840, attempts have been made to redistribute them from the areas of highest abundance to other countries and farther inland. This 'restocking' has been troubled by technical constraints (e.g. mode of transport and maximum distance eel can be shipped alive), wars (e.g. the Franco-Prussian War and World Wars One and Two) and, in recent decades, by shortage of supply due to the general decline of the eel stock all across Europe. Though objectives and procedures have changed considerably over the years, the recurring aim has been to increase production and, in that way, to 'faire mieux que la nature'. We document the historical development of these efforts from their inception, and contrast the achievements to the objectives. Except for the 1952-1990 period in Eastern Europe, restocking has probably added only slightly to the natural production. As successful as restocking might have been locally, it has not markedly changed the overall trends and distribution patterns or halted the general decline of the stock and fishery. Poor post-evaluation, frequent technical innovation and a constant renewal of the countries and people involved have kept the promise of a better future alive for 175 years.
Aqueous Extract of Allium sativum (Linn.) Bulbs Ameliorated Pituitary-Testicular Injury and Dysfunction in Wistar Rats with Pb-Induced Reproductive Disturbances
Authors: Ayoka Abiodun O. , Ademoye Aderonke K. , Imafidon Christian E. , Ojo Esther O. , Oladele Ayowole A.
Published: April 2016

AIM: To determine the effects of aqueous extract of Allium sativum bulbs (AEASAB) on pituitary-testicular injury and dysfunction in Wistar rats with lead-induced reproductive disturbances.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male Wistar rats were divided into 7 groups such that the control group received propylene glycol at 0.2 ml/100 g intraperitoneally for 10 consecutive days, the toxic group received lead (Pb) alone at 15 mg/kg/day via intraperitoneal route for 10 days while the treatment groups were pretreated with lead as the toxic group after which they received graded doses of the extract at 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg/day via oral route for 28 days. RESULTS: Pb administration induced significant deleterious alterations in the antioxidant status of the brain and testis, sperm characterization (counts, motility and viability) as well as reproductive hormones (FSH, LH and testosterone) of exposed rats (p < 0.05). These were significantly reversed in the AEASAB-treated groups (p < 0.05). Also, there was marked improvement in the Pb-induced vascular congestion and cellular loss in the pituitary while the observed Pb-induced severe testicular vacuolation was significantly reversed in the representative photomicrographs, following administration of the extract.CONCLUSION: AEASAB treatment ameliorated the pituitary-testicular injury and dysfunction in Wistar rats with Pb-Induced reproductive disturbances.
Hormonal Perturbations in Occupationally Exposed Nickel Workers
Authors: Beshir Safia , Ibrahim Khadiga Salah , Shaheen Weam , Shahy Eman M.
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND: Nickel exposure is recognized as an endocrine disruptor because of its adverse effects on reproduction.AIM: This study was designed to investigate the possible testiculo-hormonal perturbations on workers occupationally exposed to nickel and to assess its effects on human male sexual function. METHODS: Cross-sectional comparative study, comprising 105 electroplating male non-smoker, non-alcoholic workers exposed to soluble nickel and 60 controls was done. Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone levels and urinary nickel concentrations were determined for the studied groups. RESULTS: Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, urinary nickel and the simultaneous incidence of more than one sexual disorder were significantly higher in the exposed workers compared to controls. The occurrence of various types of sexual disorders (decreased libido, impotence and premature ejaculation) in the exposed workers was 9.5, 5.1 and 4.4 folds respectively than the controls.CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to nickel produces possible testiculo-hormonal perturbations in those exposed workers.
Altered Natural Killer Cell Subsets in Seropositive Arthralgia and Early Rheumatoid Arthritis Are Associated with Autoantibody Status
Authors: Chalan Paulina , Bijzet Johan , Kroesen Bart-Jan , Boots Annemieke M.H. , Brouwer Elisabeth
Published: April 2016

Objective.

The role of natural killer (NK) cells in the immunopathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unclear. Therefore, numerical and functional alterations of CD56dimand CD56brightNK cells in the early stages of RA development were studied.

Methods.

Whole blood samples from newly diagnosed, treatment-naive, seropositive (SP) and seronegative (SN) patients with RA (SP RA, n = 45 and SN RA, n = 12), patients with SP arthralgia (n = 30), and healthy controls (HC, n = 41) were assessed for numbers and frequencies of T cells, B cells, and NK cells. SP status was defined as positive for anticyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies (anti-CCP) and/or rheumatoid factor (RF). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were used for further analysis of NK cell phenotype and function.

Results.

Total NK cell numbers were decreased in SP RA and SP arthralgia but not in SN RA. Also, NK cells from SP RA showed a decreased potency for interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production. A selective decrease of CD56dim, but not CD56bright, NK cells in SP RA and SP arthralgia was observed. This prompted investigation of CD16 (FcγRIIIa) triggering in NK cell apoptosis and cytokine expression.In vitro,CD16 triggering induced apoptosis of CD56dimbut not CD56brightNK cells from HC. This apoptosis was augmented by adding interleukin 2 (IL-2). Also, CD16 triggering in the presence of IL-2 stimulated IFN-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α expression by CD56dimNK cells.

Conclusion.

The decline of CD56dimNK cells in SP arthralgia and SP RA and thein vitroapoptosis of CD56dimNK cells upon CD16 triggering suggest a functional role of immunoglobulin G-containing autoantibody (anti-CCP and/or RF)-immune complexes in this process. Moreover, CD16-triggered cytokine production by CD56dimNK cells may contribute to systemic inflammation as seen in SP arthralgia and SP RA.
Increased Frequency of Hand Osteoarthritis in Patients with Primary Sjögren Syndrome Compared with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Aksoy Adem , Solmaz Dilek , Can Gercek , Cetin Pinar , Balci Ali , Akar Servet , Birlik Merih , Akkoc Nurullah , Onen Fatos
Published: April 2016

Objective.

In daily practice, we noticed that hand osteoarthritis (OA) was commonly associated with primary Sjögren syndrome (pSS). Therefore, we aimed to investigate its prevalence in patients with pSS in a controlled study.

Methods.

The study included patients with pSS and controls with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Standard hand/wrist radiographs were obtained and classified according to the Kellgren-Lawrence system. “Erosive hand OA” was defined according to the Verbruggen-Veys classification.

Results.

There were 114 patients with pSS (110 women, 51.0 yrs) and 34 patients with SLE (33 women, 42.4 yrs). Among 114 patients with pSS, 42.7% had radiographic, 30.3% symptomatic, and 16.0% erosive hand OA. The prevalences of radiographic (45.5%) and erosive hand OA (14.4%) in 90 patients with pSS with age- and sex-matched patients with SLE were significantly higher than those in patients with SLE (14.7% and 0.0%, p = 0.007 and p = 0.012, respectively). Interobserver reliabilities for diagnosing radiographic and erosive OA were found to be good (ĸ = 0.780 and ĸ = 0.788, respectively). Intraobserver reliabilities for diagnosing radiographic and erosive OA were also good (ĸ = 0.784 and ĸ = 0.825 for FO, and ĸ = 0.722 and ĸ = 0.800 for AB, respectively). The frequency of hand OA in patients with pSS was found to be increased with increasing age (r = 0.513). The mean age of those with erosive hand OA was significantly higher than those without erosive OA (p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

This study suggests that pSS, conversely to SLE, is more frequently associated with hand OA.
Pulmonary Involvement in the Antisynthetase Syndrome: A Comparative Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Andersson Helena , Aaløkken Trond Mogens , Günther Anne , Mynarek Georg Karl , Garen Torhild , Lund May Brit , Molberg Øyvind
Published: April 2016

Objective.

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a major component of the antisynthetase syndrome, but quantitative data on longterm pulmonary outcome in antisynthetase syndrome are limited. In this study, the main aims were to compare pulmonary function tests (PFT) and the 6-min walking distance (6MWD) between patients with antisynthetase syndrome and healthy sex- and age-matched controls, to evaluate the extent of ILD by lung high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and to assess correlations between PFT measures and ILD extent.

Methods.

Concurrent PFT and 6MWD were performed in 68 patients with antisynthetase syndrome and their individually matched controls. Additionally, in the patients, the extent of ILD was determined in 10 HRCT sections, expressed as percentage of total lung volumes.

Results.

Median disease duration in the antisynthetase syndrome cohort was 71 months. Compared with the matched controls, the patients with antisynthetase syndrome had mean 28%, 27%, and 53% lower absolute values of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s, and DLCO (p < 0.001). Mean difference in 6MWD between patients and controls was 116 m (p < 0.001). Median extent of ILD by HRCT was 20% (range 0–73) and correlated with FVC and DLCO. Pulmonary outcome did not differ between Jo1 and non-Jo1 subsets.

Conclusion.

To our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate a highly significant difference in PFT between patients with antisynthetase syndrome with 6 years of followup and healthy controls. DLCO displayed the highest difference with mean 53% lower value in the patients. FVC and DLCO correlated significantly with ILD extent, indicating these variables as appropriate outcome measures in antisynthetase syndrome–associated ILD.
Efficacy and Outcome of Rapid Access Rheumatology Consultation: An Office-based Pilot Cohort Study
Authors: Puchner Rudolf , Janetschko Richard , Kaiser Wilhelm , Linkesch Manfred , Steininger Markus , Tremetsberger Raimund , Alkin Alois , Machold Klaus
Published: April 2016

Objective.

Waiting times for first appointments are a major obstacle to timely rheumatology care. To improve access, a cooperative of office-based rheumatologists established an immediate access network, offering brief initial assessments for patients with musculoskeletal problems.

Methods.

Patients were assessed at presentation and followed up after 6 months. Data were analyzed regarding demographics, diagnostic accuracy, clinical variables such as pain levels, and care.

Results.

There were 335 patients assessed in the 6 cooperating practices during dedicated office hours. There were 124 patients (38%) who had a symptom duration of < 3 months. For patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), this proportion was 43% (70% for self-referred patients with RA). In the 325 patients available for reassessment after 6 months, initially suspected diagnoses were confirmed in 88%. Confirmation rates were 93% for RA (59 patients) and 84% for spondyloarthritis (SpA; 46 patients). At the followup examination, the visual analog scale for pain in patients with RA had significantly decreased from a median (interquartile range) of 70 (57.75–80) to 27.5 (20–42). For patients with SpA, the decrease was from 65 (50–79) to 30 (20–40).

Conclusion.

The Rapid Access Clinic resulted in a substantial improvement of access to rheumatology assessment. More than one-third of the patients presented < 3 months after symptom onset. Suspected diagnoses of inflammatory rheumatic diseases were confirmed in almost 90%. This initiative demonstrates the feasibility of a rapid access service and indicates high diagnostic accuracy in such a setting. In particular, with respect to early access, it compares favorably with similar hospital-based approaches.
Identifying Targets for Improving Mental Healthcare of Adolescents with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Perspectives from Pediatric Rheumatology Clinicians in the United States and Canada
Authors: Knight Andrea M. , Vickery Michelle E. , Muscal Eyal , Davis Alaina M. , Harris Julia G. , Soybilgic Arzu , Onel Karen B. , Schanberg Laura E. , Rubinstein Tamar , Gottlieb Beth S. , Mandell David S. , von Scheven Emily
Published: April 2016

Objective.

To identify targets for improving mental healthcare of adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) by assessing current practices and perceived barriers for mental health intervention by pediatric rheumatology clinicians.

Methods.

Members of the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) completed a Web-based survey assessing current mental health practices, beliefs, and barriers. We examined associations between provider characteristics and the frequency of barriers to mental health screening and treatment using multivariable linear regression.

Results.

Of the 375 eligible CARRA members, 130 responded (35%) and 119 completed the survey. Fifty-two percent described identification of depression/anxiety in adolescents with SLE at their practice as inadequate, and 45% described treatment as inadequate. Seventy-seven percent stated that routine screening for depression/anxiety in pediatric rheumatology should be conducted, but only 2% routinely used a standardized instrument. Limited staff resources and time were the most frequent barriers to screening. Respondents with formal postgraduate mental health training, experience treating young adults, and practicing at sites with very accessible mental health staff, in urban locations, and in Canada reported fewer barriers to screening. Long waitlists and limited availability of mental health providers were the most frequent barriers to treatment. Male clinicians and those practicing in the Midwest and Canada reported fewer barriers to treatment.

Conclusion.

Pediatric rheumatology clinicians perceive a need for improved mental healthcare of adolescents with SLE. Potential strategies to overcome barriers include enhanced mental health training for pediatric rheumatologists, standardized rheumatology-based mental health practices, and better integration of medical and mental health services.
L’influence du comportement de butinage sur une conséquence transactionnelle au point de vente : une application à l’achat non planifié en supermarché au Cameroun
Authors: Monglo Haman
Published: April 2016

Cette recherche présente l’influence du comportement de butinage sur l’acte d’achats non planifiés en magasins. À cet égard, les échelles de mesure de Lombart (2004) et de Mattila et Wirtz (2001) ont été utilisées pour mesurer les comportements de butinage et des achats non planifiés respectivement. Après l’enquête réalisée auprès de 336 individus en sortie de magasin, il en ressort que le butinage influence significativement plus les butineurs que les non-butineurs à réaliser les achats non planifiés en magasins dans le contexte camerounais. En d’autres termes, les butineurs réalisent plus d’achats non planifiés que les non-butineurs. Ce résultat corrobore avec les travaux de Bloch et Richins (1983) et de Jarboe et McDaniel (1987).
Comment expliquer le départ volontaire des chercheurs ?
Authors: Alves Sarah , Culié Jean-Denis
Published: April 2016

Cet article analyse les raisons du départ volontaire des chercheurs, à travers une recherche exploratoire portant sur 38 départs volontaires effectués par 21 chercheurs spécialisés dans la microélectronique et l’informatique. Par rapport à la littérature, trois nouveaux motifs ont été identifiés : la configuration organisationnelle, l’ intérêt pour le domaine technologique ou le secteur d’activité et le désaccord avec la stratégie de l’organisation.
Impact de la proximité perçue d’un magasin sur la fidélité des clients : le cas des magasins d’enseignes alimentaires de proximité
Authors: Labbé-Pinlon Blandine , Lombart Cindy , Louis Didier
Published: April 2016

L’objectif de cette recherche est d’étudier l’impact de la proximité perçue d’un magasin d’une enseigne alimentaire dédiée à la proximité sur le comportement de fidélité de ses clients. Les résultats de l’étude menée auprès de 909 clients de trois magasins différents mettent tout d’abord en évidence l’existence de deux routes complémentaires pour comprendre comment se forment les intentions comportementales futures des clients envers un magasin d’une enseigne alimentaire de proximité. L’une s’appuie principalement sur la proximité matérielle perçue du magasin et l’attitude des clients à l’égard de ce magasin. L’autre repose davantage sur la proximité immatérielle perçue du magasin et l’attachement des clients envers ce magasin. Ils montrent aussi que dans le cas d’un magasin rural, les clients réguliers ont tendance à donner plus de poids à la route immatérielle alors que les clients occasionnels privilégient surtout la route matérielle. Pour les magasins urbains, les deux routes, matérielle et immatérielle, ont des poids similaires.
Les déterminants organisationnels du harcèlement moral : une analyse d’une revue actualisée de littérature
Authors: Zaitseva Valeriia , Chaudat Pierre
Published: April 2016

L’objectif de cet article est de cerner les principaux facteurs organisationnels influençant le harcèlement moral dans le milieu de l’entreprise à partir d’une définition précise : une durée minimale du harcèlement d’au moins 6 mois et une notion de répétitivité de l’acte d’une façon hebdomadaire ou mensuelle. La recherche concernant 450 articles et l’analyse de 68 articles sur le sujet, a permis d’identifier cinq types de facteurs : l’organisation du travail, le leadership , la culture organisationnelle et le climat social, le système de récompenses et les changements organisationnels.