bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bridging Economics and International Relations to Understand State Capacity and War in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ricciuti Roberto , Rossignoli Domenico
Published: September 2017

This paper explores the role of state capacity in affecting the probability of being attacked by another country. We measure state capacity as the effectiveness of state sovereignty over its territory (from the Variety of Democracy dataset) and focus on high intensity episodes of Militarized Interstate Disputes (MID). The analysis is performed through a logit model, investigating 42 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa over the period 1954–2010. The paper shows that higher levels of state capacity increase the probability of suffering from external attacks. This result may appear counterintuitive, since countries having full control of their own territory are expected to be stronger, therefore suggesting that a would-be invader may be defeated. However, our result is consistent with balance-of-power theories in international relations, where countries that perceive a threat set up a process of balancing that could ultimately tend towards an armed conflict.
Detecting time variation in the price puzzle: a less informative prior choice for time varying parameter VAR models
Authors: Reusens Peter , Croux Christophe
Published: September 2017

This paper compares Bayesian estimators with different prior choices for the time variation of the coefficients of Time Varying Parameter Vector Autoregression models using Monte Carlo simulations. Since the commonly used prior choice only allows for a tiny amount of time variation, less informative priors are proposed. Additional empirical evidence on the time varying response of inflation to an interest rate shock is provided for USA. While a ‘price puzzle’ is detected for the period 1972–1979, the estimated response of inflation to an interest rate shock is negative for most other time periods.
Causal relationships between economic policy uncertainty and housing market returns in China and India: evidence from linear and nonlinear panel and time series models
Authors: Chow Sheung-Chi , Cunado Juncal , Gupta Rangan , Wong Wing-Keung
Published: September 2017

In this paper, we modify the multivariate nonlinear causality test to be panel nonlinear causality test and we apply these and other existing related tests to examine the causal relationship between growth in economic policy uncertainty (EPU) and real housing returns in China and India using quarterly data from 2003:01 to 2012:04. Both panel linear and nonlinear Granger causality tests suggest the existence of only linear and nonlinear unidirectional causality relationships from growth in EPU to real housing returns in both China and India, and bivariate linear Granger causality tests suggest the existence of only linear unidirectional causality relationship from growth in EPU to real housing returns only in China. However, nonlinear bivariate Granger causality tests conclude the existence of nonlinear bidirectional causality relationships between growth in EPU and real housing returns in both China and India and cross bivariate linear and nonlinear Granger causality tests discover that there is only a linear causality relationship from Indian growth in EPU to Chinese housing returns. The results confirm the relevance of EPU data to better understand and predict the future behaviour of housing market returns in these countries.
Time-varying persistence of inflation: evidence from a wavelet-based approach
Authors: Boubaker Heni , Canarella Giorgio , Gupta Rangan , Miller Stephen M.
Published: September 2017

We propose a new stochastic long-memory model with a time-varying fractional integration parameter, evolving non-linearly according to a Logistic Smooth Transition Autoregressive (LSTAR) specification. To estimate the time-varying fractional integration parameter, we implement a method based on the wavelet approach, using the instantaneous least squares estimator (ILSE). The empirical results show the relevance of the modeling approach and provide evidence of regime change in inflation persistence that contributes to a better understanding of the inflationary process in the US. Most importantly, these empirical findings remind us that a “one-size-fits-all” monetary policy is unlikely to work in all circumstances. The empirical results are consistent with newly developed tests of wavelet-based unit root and fractional Brownian motion.
Strategies for the construction of insect P450 fusion enzymes
Authors: Talmann Lea , Wiesner Jochen , Vilcinskas Andreas
Published: September 2017

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) are ubiquitous enzymes with a broad substrate spectrum. Insect P450s are known to catalyze reactions such as the detoxification of insecticides and the synthesis of hydrocarbons, which makes them useful for many industrial processes. Unfortunately, it is difficult to utilize P450s effectively because they must be paired with cytochrome P450 reductases (CPRs) to facilitate electron transfer from reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). Furthermore, eukaryotic P450s and CPRs are membrane-anchored proteins, which means they are insoluble and therefore difficult to purify when expressed in their native state. Both challenges can be addressed by creating fusion proteins that combine the P450 and CPR functions while eliminating membrane anchors, allowing the production and purification of soluble multifunctional polypeptides suitable for industrial applications. Here we discuss several strategies for the construction of fusion enzymes combining insect P450 with CPRs.
A novel stop mutation (p.(Gln22*)) of DAX1 (NR0B1) results in late-onset X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita
Authors: Gerards Judith , Ritter Michael M , Kaminsky Elke , Gal Andreas , Hoeppner Wolfgang , Quinkler Marcus
Published: September 2017

DAX1 (NR0B1) is an orphan nuclear receptor, which plays an important role in development and function of the adrenal glands and gonads. Mutations in DAX1 cause X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita (X-linked AHC), which is characterized by adrenal insufficiency (AI) and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG). Affected boys present with adrenal failure usually in childhood and, later in life, with delayed puberty. However, patients with a late-onset form of X-linked AHC have also been described in the past years. We report a male patient who presented with symptoms of an adrenal crisis at the age of 38 years and was later diagnosed with HHG. Family history was positive with several male relatives diagnosed with AI and compatible with the assumed X-chromosomal inheritance of the trait. Direct sequencing of DAX1 of the patient revealed a hemizygous cytosine-to-thymine substitution at nucleotide 64 in exon 1, which creates a novel nonsense mutation (p.(Gln22*)). In order to compare the clinical presentation of the patient to that of other patients with X-linked AHC, we searched the electronic database MEDLINE (PubMed) and found reports of nine other cases with delayed onset of X-linked AHC. In certain cases, genotype–phenotype correlation could be assumed.

Learning points:

X-linked AHC is a rare disease characterized by primary AI and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG). The full-blown clinical picture is seen usually only in males with a typical onset in childhood.

Patients with a late-onset form of X-linked AHC have also been described recently. Being aware of this late-onset form might help to reach an early diagnosis and prevent life-threatening adrenal crises.

Adult men with primary AI of unknown etiology should be investigated for HHG. Detecting a DAX1 mutation may confirm the clinical diagnosis of late-onset X-linked AHC.

In relatives of patients with genetically confirmed X-linked AHC, targeted mutation analysis may help to identify family members at risk and asymptomatic carriers, and discuss conscious family planning.
Atypical presentation of central pontine myelinolysis in hyperglycemia
Authors: Talluri Swapna , Charumathi Raghu , Khan Muhammad , Kissell Kerri
Published: September 2017

Central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) usually occurs with rapid correction of severe chronic hyponatremia. Despite the pronounced fluctuations in serum osmolality, CPM is rarely seen in diabetics. This is a case report of CPM associated with hyperglycemia. A 45-year-old non-smoking and non-alcoholic African American male with past medical history of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, stage V chronic kidney disease and hypothyroidism presented with a two-week history of intermittent episodes of gait imbalance, slurred speech and inappropriate laughter. Physical examination including complete neurological assessment and fundoscopic examination were unremarkable. Laboratory evaluation was significant for serum sodium: 140 mmol/L, potassium: 3.9 mmol/L, serum glucose: 178 mg/dL and serum osmolality: 317 mosmol/kg. His ambulatory blood sugars fluctuated between 100 and 600 mg/dL in the six weeks prior to presentation, without any significant or rapid changes in his corrected serum sodium or other electrolyte levels. MRI brain demonstrated a symmetric lesion in the central pons with increased signal intensity on T2- and diffusion-weighted images. After neurological consultation and MRI confirmation, the patient was diagnosed with CPM secondary to hyperosmolar hyperglycemia. Eight-week follow-up with neurology was notable for near-complete resolution of symptoms. This case report highlights the importance of adequate blood glucose control in diabetics. Physicians should be aware of complications like CPM, which can present atypically in diabetics and is only diagnosed in the presence of a high index of clinical suspicion.

Learning points:

Despite the pronounced fluctuations in serum osmolality, central pontine myelinolysis (CPM) is rarely seen in diabetics. This case report of CPM associated with hyperglycemia highlights the importance of adequate blood glucose control in diabetics.

Physicians should be aware of complications like CPM in diabetics.

CPM can present atypically in diabetics and is only diagnosed in the presence of a high index of clinical suspicion.
A new paradigm in low-risk papillary microcarcinoma: active surveillance
Authors: González Bóssolo Alex , Garcia Michelle Mangual , González Paula Jeffs , Garcia Miosotis , Villarmarzo Guillermo , Martinez Jose Hernán
Published: September 2017

Classical papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) is a variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) known to have excellent prognosis. It has a mortality of 0.3%, even in the presence of distance metastasis. The latest American Thyroid Association guidelines state that although lobectomy is acceptable, active surveillance can be considered in the appropriate setting. We present the case of a 37-year-old female with a history of PTMC who underwent surgical management consisting of a total thyroidectomy. Although she has remained disease-free, her quality of life has been greatly affected by the sequelae of this procedure. This case serves as an excellent example of how first-line surgical treatment may result more harmful than the disease itself.

Learning points:

Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) has an excellent prognosis with a mortality of less than 1% even with the presence of distant metastases.

Active surveillance is a reasonable management approach for appropriately selected patients.

Patients should be thoroughly oriented about the risks and benefits of active surveillance vs immediate surgical treatment. This discussion should include the sequelae of surgery and potential impact on quality of life, especially in the younger population.

More studies are needed for stratification of PTMC behavior to determine if conservative management is adequate for all patients with this specific disease variant.
Diabetic ketoacidosis producing extreme hyperkalemia in a patient with type 1 diabetes on hemodialysis
Authors: Yamada Hodaka , Funazaki Shunsuke , Kakei Masafumi , Hara Kazuo , Ishikawa San-e
Published: September 2017

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a critical complication of type 1 diabetes associated with water and electrolyte disorders. Here, we report a case of DKA with extreme hyperkalemia (9.0 mEq/L) in a patient with type 1 diabetes on hemodialysis. He had a left frontal cerebral infarction resulting in inability to manage his continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion pump. Electrocardiography showed typical changes of hyperkalemia, including absent P waves, prolonged QRS interval and tented T waves. There was no evidence of total body water deficit. After starting insulin and rapid hemodialysis, the serum potassium level was normalized. Although DKA may present with hypokalemia, rapid hemodialysis may be necessary to resolve severe hyperkalemia in a patient with renal failure.

Learning points:

Patients with type 1 diabetes on hemodialysis may develop ketoacidosis because of discontinuation of insulin treatment.

Patients on hemodialysis who develop ketoacidosis may have hyperkalemia because of anuria.

Absolute insulin deficit alters potassium distribution between the intracellular and extracellular space, and anuria abolishes urinary excretion of potassium.

Rapid hemodialysis along with intensive insulin therapy can improve hyperkalemia, while fluid infusions may worsen heart failure in patients with ketoacidosis who routinely require hemodialysis.
Thyroidectomy for the treatment of Graves’ thyrotoxicosis in thioamide-induced agranulocytosis and sepsis
Authors: Knight Colin L , Cooray Shamil D , Kulkarni Jaideep , Borschmann Michael , Kotowicz Mark
Published: September 2017

A 51 year old man presented with sepsis in the setting of thioamide-induced agranulocytosis. Empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics was followed by directed narrow-spectrum antibiotics, and his neutrophil count recovered with support from granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) analogue transfusions. After a brief period of multi-modal therapy for nine days including potassium iodide (Lugol’s iodine), cholestyramine, propanolol and lithium to temper his persisting hyperthyroidism, a total thyroidectomy was performed while thyroid hormone levels remained at thyrotoxic levels. Postoperative recovery was uncomplicated and he was discharged home on thyroxine. There is limited available evidence to guide treatment in this unique cohort of patients who require prompt management to avert impending clinical deterioration. This case report summarises the successful emergent control of thyrotoxicosis in the setting of thioamide-induced agranulocytosis complicated by sepsis, and demonstrates the safe use of multi-modal pharmacological therapies in preparation for total thyroidectomy.

Learning points:

Thioamide-induced agranulocytosis is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication of which all prescribers and patients need to be aware.

A multi-modal preoperative pharmacological approach can be successful, even when thioamides are contraindicated, when needing to prepare a thyrotoxic patient for semi-urgent total thyroidectomy.

There is not enough evidence to confidently predict the safe timing when considering total thyroidectomy in this patient cohort, and therefore it should be undertaken when attempts have first been made to safely reduce thyroid hormone levels.

Thyroid storm is frequently cited as a potentially severe complication of thyroid surgery undertaken in thyrotoxic patients, although the evidence does not demonstrate this as a common occurrence.
A rare cause of metabolic acidosis: ketoacidosis in a non-diabetic lactating woman
Authors: Sloan Gordon , Ali Amjad , Webster Jonathan
Published: September 2017

Ketoacidosis occurring during lactation has been described infrequently. The condition is incompletely understood, but it appears to be associated with a combination of increased metabolic demands during lactation, reduction in carbohydrate intake and acute illness. We present a case of a 27-year-old woman, 8 weeks post-partum, who was exclusively breastfeeding her child whilst following a low carbohydrate diet. She developed gastroenteritis and was unable to tolerate an oral diet for several days. She presented with severe metabolic acidosis on admission with a blood 3-hydroxybutyrate of 5.4 mmol/L. She was treated with intravenous dextrose and intravenous sodium bicarbonate, and given dietary advice to increase her carbohydrate intake. She made a rapid and full recovery. We provide a summary of the common causes of ketoacidosis and compare our case with other presentations of lactation ketoacidosis.

Learning points:

Ketoacidosis in the lactating woman is a rare cause of raised anion gap metabolic acidosis.

Low carbohydrate intake, starvation, intercurrent illness or a combination of these factors could put breastfeeding women at risk of ketoacidosis.

Ketoacidosis in the lactating woman has been shown to resolve rapidly with sufficient carbohydrate intake and intravenous dextrose.

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential because the condition is reported to be reversible with a low chance of recurrence with appropriate dietary advice.
Marked hyperandrogenicity in a 60-year-old woman
Authors: Aljenaee Khaled , Ali Sulaiman , Cheah Seong Keat , MacEneaney Owen , Mulligan Niall , Hickey Neil , Tun Tommy Kyaw , Sreenan Seamus , McDermott John H
Published: September 2017

Markedly elevated androgen levels can lead to clinical virilization in females. Clinical features of virilization in a female patient, in association with biochemical hyperandrogenism, should prompt a search for an androgen-producing tumor, especially of ovarian or adrenal origin. We herein report the case of a 60-year-old woman of Pakistani origin who presented with the incidental finding of male pattern baldness and hirsutism. Her serum testosterone level was markedly elevated at 21 nmol/L (normal range: 0.4–1.7 nmol/L), while her DHEAS level was normal, indicating a likely ovarian source of her elevated testosterone. Subsequently, a CT abdomen-pelvis was performed, which revealed a bulky right ovary, confirmed on MRI of the pelvis as an enlarged right ovary, measuring 2.9 × 2.2 cm transaxially. A laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed, and histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry confirmed the diagnosis of a Leydig cell tumor, a rare tumor accounting for 0.1% of ovarian tumors. Surgical resection led to normalization of testosterone levels.

Learning points:

Hirsutism in postmenopausal women should trigger suspicion of androgen-secreting tumor

Extremely elevated testosterone level plus normal DHEAS level point toward ovarian source

Leydig cell tumor is extremely rare cause of hyperandrogenicity
Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis: a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma
Authors: Rawla Prashanth , Vellipuram Anantha R , Bandaru Sathyajit S , Pradeep Raj Jeffrey
Published: September 2017

Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis (EDKA) is a clinical triad comprising increased anion gap metabolic acidosis, ketonemia or ketonuria and normal blood glucose levels <200 mg/dL. This condition is a diagnostic challenge as euglycemia masquerades the underlying diabetic ketoacidosis. Thus, a high clinical suspicion is warranted, and other diagnosis ruled out. Here, we present two patients on regular insulin treatment who were admitted with a diagnosis of EDKA. The first patient had insulin pump failure and the second patient had urinary tract infection and nausea, thereby resulting in starvation. Both of them were aggressively treated with intravenous fluids and insulin drip as per the protocol for the blood glucose levels till the anion gap normalized, and the metabolic acidosis reversed. This case series summarizes, in brief, the etiology, pathophysiology and treatment of EDKA.

Learning points:

Euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis is rare.

Consider ketosis in patients with DKA even if their serum glucose levels are normal.

High clinical suspicion is required to diagnose EDKA as normal blood sugar levels masquerade the underlying DKA and cause a diagnostic and therapeutic dilemma.

Blood pH and blood or urine ketones should be checked in ill patients with diabetes regardless of blood glucose levels.
Remission of type 2 diabetes in a hypogonadal man under long-term testosterone therapy
Authors: Haider Ahmad , Haider Karim S , Saad Farid
Published: September 2017

In daily practice, clinicians are often confronted with obese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients for whom the treatment plan fails and who show an inadequate glycemic control and/or no sustainable weight loss. Untreated hypogonadism can be the reason for such treatment failure. This case describes the profound impact testosterone therapy can have on a male hypogonadal patient with metabolic syndrome, resulting in a substantial and sustained loss of body weight, pronounced improvement of all critical laboratory values and finally complete remission of diabetes.

Learning points:

Hypogonadism occurs frequently in men with T2DM.

In case of pronounced abdominal fat deposition and T2DM, the male patient should be evaluated for testosterone deficiency.

Untreated hypogonadism can complicate the successful treatment of patients with T2DM.

Under testosterone therapy, critical laboratory values are facilitated to return back to normal ranges and even complete remission of diabetes can be achieved.
Expression of transcription factors in MEN1-associated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Takeda Yasutaka , Fujita Yukihiro , Sakai Kentaro , Abe Tomoe , Nakamura Tomonobu , Yanagimachi Tsuyoshi , Sakagami Hidemitsu , Honjo Jun , Abiko Atsuko , Makino Yuichi , Haneda Masakazu
Published: September 2017

MEN1-associated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) may potentially express distinct hormones, but the mechanism has not been elucidated. Transcription factors such as MafA and Pdx1 have been identified to lead to beta cell differentiation, while Arx and Brn4 to alpha cell differentiation in developing pancreas. We hypothesized those transcription factors are important to produce specific hormones in pNETs, similarly to developing pancreas, and examined the expression of transcription factors in a case of MEN1 who showed immunohistological coexistence of several hormone-producing pNETs including insulinoma. A 70-year-old woman was found to manifest hypoglycemia with non-suppressed insulinemia and hypercalcemia with elevated PTH level. She was diagnosed as MEN1 based on the manifestation of primary hyperparathyroidism, pituitary adenoma and insulinoma, with genetic variation of MEN1 gene. She had pylorus-preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy because CT scan and SACI test indicated that insulinoma was localized in the head of the pancreas. Histopathological finding was MEN1-associated NET, G1. Interestingly, immunohistological examination of the resected pancreas revealed that two insulinomas, a glucagon-positive NET and a multiple hormone-positive NET coexisted. Hence, we examined the expression of transcription factors immunohistochemically to elucidate the role of the transcription factors in MEN1-associated hormone-producing pNETs. We observed homogeneous expressions of MafA and Pdx1 in insulinomas and Arx in glucagon-positive NET, respectively. Moreover, multiple hormone-positive NETs expressed several transcription factors heterogeneously. Collectively, our results suggested that transcription factors could play important roles in the production of specific hormones in MEN1-associated pNETs, similar to islet differentiation.

Learning points:

To date, it has been shown that different hormone-producing tumors coexist in MEN1-associated pNETs; however, the underlying mechanism of the hormone production in MEN1-associated pNETs has not been well elucidated.

Although this case presented symptomatic hypoglycemia, several hormone-producing pNETs other than insulinoma also coexisted in the pancreas.

Immunohistochemical analysis showed MafA and Pdx1 expressions distinctly in insulinoma, and Arx expression particularly in a glucagon-positive NET, while a multiple hormone-positive NET expressed MafA, Pdx1 and Arx.

Collectively, clinicians should consider that several hormone-producing pNETs may coexist in a MEN1 case and examine both endocrinological and histopathological analysis of pNETs, regardless of whether symptoms related to the excess of hormones are observed or not.
Regulation of AMH by oocyte-specific growth factors in human primary cumulus cells
Authors: Convissar Scott , Armouti Marah , Fierro Michelle A , Winston Nicola J , Scoccia Humberto , Zamah A Musa , Stocco Carlos
Published: September 2017

The regulation of AMH production by follicular cells is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of the oocyte-secreted factors, growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), on AMH production in primary human cumulus cells. Cumulus cells from IVF patients were cultured with a combination of GDF9, BMP15, recombinant FSH and specific signaling inhibitors. Stimulation with GDF9 or BMP15 separately had no significant effect onAMHmRNA levels. In contrast, simultaneous stimulation with GDF9 and BMP15 (G + B) resulted in a significant increase inAMHmRNA expression. Increasing concentration of G + B (0.6, 2.5, 5 and 10 ng/mL) stimulated AMH in a dose-dependent manner, showing a maximal effect at 5 ng/mL. Western blot analyses revealed an average 16-fold increase in AMH protein levels in cells treated with G + B when compared to controls. FSH co-treatment decreased the stimulation of AMH expression by G + B. The stimulatory effect of G + B on the expression of AMH was significantly decreased by inhibitors of the SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. These findings show for the first time that AMH production is regulated by oocyte-secreted factors in primary human cumulus cells. Moreover, our novel findings establish that the combination of GDF9 + BMP15 potently stimulates AMH expression.
Overexpression of miRNA-9 Generates Muscle Hypercontraction Through Translational Repression of Troponin-T inDrosophila melanogasterIndirect Flight Muscles
Authors: Katti Prasanna , Thimmaya Divesh , Madan Aditi , Nongthomba Upendra
Published: September 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding endogenous RNAs, typically 21–23 nucleotides long, that regulate gene expression, usually post-transcriptionally, by binding to the 3′-UTR of target mRNA, thus blocking translation. The expression of several miRNAs is significantly altered during cardiac hypertrophy, myocardial ischemia, fibrosis, heart failure, and other cardiac myopathies. Recent studies have implicated miRNA-9 (miR-9) in myocardial hypertrophy. However, a detailed mechanism remains obscure. In this study, we have addressed the roles of miR-9 in muscle development and function using a genetically tractable model system, the indirect flight muscles (IFMs) of Drosophila melanogaster. Bioinformatics analysis identified 135 potential miR-9a targets, of which 27 genes were associated with Drosophila muscle development. Troponin-T (TnT) was identified as major structural gene target of miR-9a. We show that flies overexpressing miR-9a in the IFMs have abnormal wing position and are flightless. These flies also exhibit a loss of muscle integrity and sarcomeric organization causing an abnormal muscle condition known as “hypercontraction.” Additionally, miR-9a overexpression resulted in the reduction of TnT protein levels while transcript levels were unaffected. Furthermore, muscle abnormalities associated with miR-9a overexpression were completely rescued by overexpression of TnT transgenes which lacked the miR-9a binding site. These findings indicate that miR-9a interacts with the 3′-UTR of the TnT mRNA and downregulates the TnT protein levels by translational repression. The reduction in TnT levels leads to a cooperative downregulation of other thin filament structural proteins. Our findings have implications for understanding the cellular pathophysiology of cardiomyopathies associated with miR-9 overexpression.
KinFin: Software for Taxon-Aware Analysis of Clustered Protein Sequences
Authors: Laetsch Dominik R , Blaxter Mark L
Published: September 2017

The field of comparative genomics is concerned with the study of similarities and differences between the information encoded in the genomes of organisms. A common approach is to define gene families by clustering protein sequences based on sequence similarity, and analyze protein cluster presence and absence in different species groups as a guide to biology. Due to the high dimensionality of these data, downstream analysis of protein clusters inferred from large numbers of species, or species with many genes, is nontrivial, and few solutions exist for transparent, reproducible, and customizable analyses. We present KinFin, a streamlined software solution capable of integrating data from common file formats and delivering aggregative annotation of protein clusters. KinFin delivers analyses based on systematic taxonomy of the species analyzed, or on user-defined, groupings of taxa, for example, sets based on attributes such as life history traits, organismal phenotypes, or competing phylogenetic hypotheses. Results are reported through graphical and detailed text output files. We illustrate the utility of the KinFin pipeline by addressing questions regarding the biology of filarial nematodes, which include parasites of veterinary and medical importance. We resolve the phylogenetic relationships between the species and explore functional annotation of proteins in clusters in key lineages and between custom taxon sets, identifying gene families of interest. KinFin can easily be integrated into existing comparative genomic workflows, and promotes transparent and reproducible analysis of clustered protein data.
Metas de logro y niveles de satisfacción hacia el grado de docente en infantil y primaria
Authors: Viciana-Garófano Virginia , Zurita-Ortega Félix , Castro-Sánchez Manuel , Martínez-Martínez Asunción , Chacón-Cuberos Ramón , Espejo-Garcés Tamara
Published: September 2017

This research aims to know the level of satisfaction and achievement goals of students enrolled in seventh semester of the Degree in Pre-School and Primary Education Teaching. This empirical study analyses the relation between gender, specialization, student satisfaction, and achievement goals in a sample of 293 respondents in their last year of university; they study in two universities located in Granada (Spain), which are the Faculty of Educational Sciences-FCCE (public institution), and the University School-La Inmaculada (private university). A quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional design was used to develop a relational study to analyze the degree of dependence between achievement goals, student satisfaction, gender, and attainment of degrees. The results showed that the students enrolled in the Degree in Pre-School and Primary Education Teaching are satisfied with their degree; they highlighted the performance of teamwork and the quality of the teachers. In addition, students emphasized the attention teachers paid to them, their punctuality, and the low absenteeism. Furthermore, men are frequently associated with competitiveness, high performance achievement, and results. In the opposite, women are related with task-orientation, carrying it out with a greater competence.
DETERMINACIÓN DE PATRONES DE VARIACIÓN MORFOLÓGICA DEL GÉNERO MINTHOSTACHYS EN UNCHUS y CAJATAMBO, MEDIANTE MÉTODOS ESTADÍSTICOS MULTIVARIANTES DE REDUCCIÓN DE DATOS
Authors: Gómez Ticerán Doris , Solano Dávila Olga , Albán Castillo Joaquina Adelaida , Vásquez Araujo Camilo Andrés , Vásquez Esquivel Jaime Arsenio , Quinteros Gómez Yakov Mario
Published: September 2017

El estudio fue realizado en la localidad de Unchus y en el distrito de Cajatambo en los departamentos de Ancash y Lima respectivamente. Ambos lugares se encuentran en territorio alto andino. El objetivo del estudio fue realizar un análisis comparativo de la caracterización del género Minthostachys (muña), a partir de muestras colectadas durante los años 2004 y 2005, mediante representaciones gráficas de las variables originales pertenecientes al espacio R5 en R2, usando el Análisis Factorial (Johnson, 2000; Seber, 1984y otros), Análisis de Componentes Principales y Análisis de Componentes Principales Generalizadas (Flury, 1983; De Paz y Gómez, 2002). Los estudios de las variables morfológicas fueron realizados en el Departamento de Etnobotánica y Botánica Económica del Museo de Historia Natural y la determinación de las especies se realizó en el Herbario USM utilizando el Sistema de Clasificación de Cronquist. Los gráficos realizados usando las variables generadas mediante el análisis de Componentes Principales y Análisis de Componentes Principales Generalizadas, permiten identificar tres especies diferentes de Minthostachys en las comunidades de Unchus y Cajatambo. Se confirman los resultados mediante la T2 de Hotelling.
SOLUCIONES DE UN SISTEMA HIPERBÓLICO NO LINEAL CON INCLUSIÓN DE FRONTERA DIFERENCIABLE y AMORTIGUAMIENTO DE SEGUNDO ORDEN SOBRE LA FRONTERA
Authors: Perez Salvatierra Alfonso , Yauri Luque Victoriano , Huamán Gutiérrez Zoraida Judith , Pariona Vilca Félix
Published: September 2017

En este artículo estudiamos la existencia de soluciones generalizadas para un sistema hiperbólico no lineal con términos discontinuos muliivaluados y términos de amortiguamiento de segundo orden en la frontera.
DECAIMIENTO EXPONENCIAL DE UNA ECUACIÓN DE ONDA CON UNA CONDICIÓN DE FRONTERA VISCOELÁSTICA Y UN TÉRMINO FUENTE
Authors: Carrera Barrantes Víctor Emilio , Martínez León Víctor Arturo , León Barboza Félix , Bernui Barros Juan Benito
Published: September 2017

En este artículo estamos interesados en la estabilidad de las soluciones de una ecuación de onda con una condición de frontera viscoelástica y un término fuente, usaremos el método potencial, la técnica de multiplicadores y el teorema de unicidad para una ecuación de onda con coeficientes variables.
MODELOS DE INVESTIGACIÓN OPERATIVA EN LA GESTIÓN DE RECURSOS HUMANOS
Authors: Velásquez Pino Carmela Catalina , Berger Vidal Esther , Gambini López Inés , De La Cruz Cuadros Lucy Haydee
Published: September 2017

En las Facultades de la Universidad, como en toda organización, existen unidades organizacionales que tienen funciones relacionadas a la Gestión de Recursos Humanos, tales como la Dirección Administrativa, Escuelas y Departamentos Académicos e inclusive la Comisión de Evaluación y Perfeccionamiento Docente. En el contexto descrito, nuestro interés está en desarrollar un estudio con los siguientes objetivos: Contar con un Sistema de Asignación de Carga a los Docentes de la Facultad de Ciencias Matemáticas, en particular en el Departamento Académico de Investigación Operativa, que garantizará una distribución objetiva e imparcial y permitirá la selección del docente idóneo para el dictado de un curso, con esta finalidad se ha formulado un modelo de Programación Lineal. Se plantea además una cadena de Markov que traduce, en una matriz de probabilidades de transición, los cambios de categoría de los docentes nombrados de la Facultad de Ciencias Matemáticas entre procesos de Promoción Docente consecutivos
CONSTRUCCIÓN Y GESTIÓN DE ÍNDICES MULTIVARIANTES PARA CARACTERIZAR LA CALIDAD DEL MEDIO MARINO COSTERO PERUANO
Authors: Adriazola Cruz Rosa Ysabel , Cárdenas Rojas Ana María , Solano Dávila Olga , Peche Ortega Carlos Enrique , García Herbozo Víctor Ramón
Published: September 2017

El principal objetivo de este estudio es la de construir indicadores basados en métodos estadísticos multivariantes considerando las variables; temperatura, oxígeno, pH, sólidos suspendidos totales las que permitiran caracterizar la calidad del medio marino en particular de la Bahía de Ferrol. Debido a la complejidad de las características relacionadas a la calidad medio marino, se ha utilizado métodos estadísticos multivariantes con el objetivo de reconocer algún patrón o estructura explicativa y, además, plantear hipótesis para estudios posteriores. En base al Análisis Factorial se ha construido un índice de calidad del medio marino en particular se presentan los resultados obtenidos en la Bahía de Ferrol.
ESPACIOS CON PESO
Authors: Moya Lázaro Nancy
Published: September 2017

En este artículo, presentamos un estudio analítico de una clase de pesos, damos algunas propiedades y formulamos algunas estimaciones de estos. Definimos los correspondientes espacios de Sobolev con pesos, tratamos de establecer algunas relaciones entre los espacios de Sobolev con peso y sin peso. Construimos las inclusiones de Sobolev con peso entre los espacios de Sobolev con peso.
ESPECTRO DE FUCIK PARA UN PROBLEMA DE VALOR FRONTERA DE TERCER ORDEN
Authors: Rojas Romero Santiago César
Published: September 2017

En este trabajo se estudia el Espectro de Fucik para el problema de valor frontera ... y se describen las curvas de Fucik contenidas en dicho espectro.
EXISTENCIA GLOBAL Y COMPORTAMIENTO ASINTÓTICO PARA UNA ECUACIÓN DE KIRCHOFF CON TÉRMINO DISIPATIVO DE COEFICIENTE VARIABLE
Authors: Cabanillas Lapa Eugenio
Published: September 2017

Consideramos una ecuación de onda no lineal, con un término disipativo del tipo a(x)u' (el Coeficiente a depende de la variable espacial).Usando el método de FAEDO-GALERKIN, y definiendo funcionales, de energía adecuados, encontraremos existencia global de la solución para datos pequeños. Una vez hecho esto usamos desigualdades integrales para mostrar que la energía del sistema decae a cero de manera exponencial.
Administración y globalización: una perspectiva psicológica
Authors: Perea Rivera Jóse Luis
Published: September 2017

La temática general de la administración y la globalización tiene como propósito de abordarla como ejes basados en el conocimiento sistematizado o en la interpretación que en el siglo XX iniciaron y vienen marcando sea en una prospectiva emprendedora o apocalíptica la orientación del desarrollo de las organizaciones y de los seres humanos en el siglo XXI, es decir, en la dinámica de las organizaciones: comunidad, países o bloques continentales, y la dinámica personal. La importancia de las temáticas es haberse convertido en el centro de atención tanto en el nivel individual, organizacional, así como mundial, y que pretendemos tratarlas en una perspectiva psicológica flexible, presentándolas a manera de una propuesta de investigación exploratoria de enfoque post facto, en la cual la administración considerada como gestora del desarrollo de las organizaciones, dilucide si es la causa o efecto de la globalización; asimismo, el exponer los criterios que a manera de propuestas han sido expresados como alternativas propositivas para su afrontamiento en un criterio sistémico y en perspectiva global hacia la modernidad del siglo XXI de cambio organizacional y concertación.
Psicopatía política: caso Fujimori
Authors: Nizama Valladolid Martin
Published: September 2017

A siete años de su derrumbe político, Alberto Fujimori Fujimori (AFF) fue extraditado de Chile el 22 de setiembre de 2007, para ser juzgado por dos casos de violación a los derechos humanos y por cinco casos de corrupción. El megajuicio se inició el 10 de diciembre de 2007. Según la teoría de la Autoría mediata, el haber encabezado la cadena de mando en las acciones antisubversivas lo involucra en la comisión de crímenes de lesa humanidad. La Sala Penal Especial de la Corte Suprema lo juzga por seis causas divididas en tres megaprocesos penales relacionados a los derechos humanos, corrupción y peculado: 1) Casos La Cantuta- Barrios Altos, el secuestro del periodista Gustavo Gorriti y del empresario Samuel Dyer en los sótanos del Servicio de Inteligencia del Ejército; 2) Caso interceptación telefónica, medios de comunicación y congresistas tránsfugas; y 3) Caso 15 millones de nuevos soles por pago de compensación por tiempo de servicios a Montesinos). El último caso, allanamiento a la casa de Trinidad Becerra, ex esposa de Montesinos, es tratado por separado, puesto que se trata de un proceso sumario. Empero, AFF no actuó solo. Su accionar delictivo fue orquestado en la sombra con aquellos miembros de su cúpula que se coludieron con él y procedieron con estilo mafioso. En este artículo se presenta una sistematización de la trama psicopatológica de este intricado asunto político, el mismo que configura un síndrome psicopático, cuya evolución es de un previsible desenlace que pondrá fin a la ansiada impunidad que busca AFF.
Predisposición hacia las experiencias alucinatorias en Perú: examinando la continuidad normalidad-patología en individuos clínicos y no clínicos
Authors: Parra Alejandro , Espinoza P. Luis
Published: September 2017

Recientemente se ha observado un creciente interés en el estudio de las alucinaciones en población no-clínica. En este estudio, se investigó la multidimensionalidad de las alucinaciones en participantes no-clínicos, en comparación con participantes clínicos. Ambas muestras –214 estudiantes universitarios y 30 pacientes– tomaron parte en este estudio. Se empleó el Cuestionario de Experiencias Alucinatorias. Los resultados sugieren que los estudiantes con experiencias perceptuales anómalas indicaron algún grado de propensión a la esquizotipia perceptual, tendencia a la disociación, absorción y propensidad a la fantasía en relación con la alucinación visual, lo cual parece confirmar la esquizotipia positiva.
Síndrome de Burnout y estrategias de afrontamiento en acompañantes terapéuticos
Authors: Reyna Cecilia , Bracco Constanza
Published: September 2017

El objetivo central de este estudio fue analizar las manifestaciones de Síndrome de Burnout en un colectivo particular de agentes de salud, los acompañantes terapéuticos. Asimismo, se indagó acerca de las estrategias de afrontamiento empleadas, tanto en términos generales como específicas de la profesión, y su relación con los síntomas del síndrome. La muestra estuvo compuesta por 17 profesionales de Córdoba (Argentina) de ambos sexos (41.2% varones), con edades comprendidas entre los 22 y 53 años (M = 29.53 años, DT = 7.43). La prevalencia de los distintos síntomas del síndrome se examinó considerando distintos criterios de corte, con resultados dispares; mientras que las relaciones con las estrategias de afrontamiento sólo se manifestaron entre algunas dimensiones.
Medición del riesgo suicida, bienestar psicológico y estructura familiar en estudiantes de primer ingreso a las carreras de la salud
Authors: Eguiluz R. Luz de Lourdes , Mera M. Juan
Published: September 2017

El objetivo de esta investigación es conocer el riesgo suicida, el bienestar psicológico y relacionar estas dos variables con la estructura familiar de los jóvenes de nuevo ingreso a las carreras de Salud. Se evaluó con tres instrumentos: Escala de evaluación de la cohesión y adaptabilidad familiar (Faces IV), el inventario de riesgo suicida y la escala de bienestar psicológico subjetivo. Los resultados señalan respecto a la estructura familiar que el 87% piensa que su familia es caótica y el 28% considera que su familia no está cohesionada. El resultado del IRIS mostró que 8 de los 329 fueron identificados con alto riesgo suicida, 11 con alto riesgo de depresión y 10 alumnos carecen de factores que pueden protegerlos de los riesgos a los que están expuestos. Por último, en la percepción sobre su bienestar en 71 de los 329 jóvenes es muy bajo, por lo que se encuentran en posibilidad de sufrir depresión o incluso estar en riesgo suicida.
Desarrollo profesional y autoeficacia docente del profesor universitario, Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán - Huánuco 2013
Authors: Portocarrero M. Ewer
Published: September 2017

Objetivo. Determinar el grado de relación entre el desarrollo profesional y la autoeficacia docente. Métodos. Se llevó a cabo un estudio correlacional, con 125 docentes de la Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán, Huánuco, durante el período 2013. Se utilizó una ficha de análisis documental y una escala de autoeficacia. Para el análisis inferencial se utilizó el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados. En cuanto al desarrollo profesional, 78.4% de los docentes alcanzaron el grado académico de magister y 52.0% de ellos fueron de dedicación exclusiva. El 76.0% tuvo autoeficacia alta y el 59.2%, alta frecuencia de la misma. Se encontró relación significativa y positiva entre el desarrollo profesional y la autoeficacia docente (r=0.64; p≤0.000) y en las dimensiones planificación de la enseñanza (r=0.64; p≤0.000), implicación de los alumnos en el aprendizaje (r=0.64; p≤0.000), interacción y creación de un clima positivo en el aula (r=0.63; p≤0.000) y evaluación del aprendizaje (r=0.62; p≤0.000). Conclusiones. Existe relación entre el desarrollo profesional y la autoeficacia docente del profesor universitario de la Universidad Nacional Hermilio Valdizán de Huánuco.
Estandarización de la batería Woodcock de proficiencia en el idioma
Authors: Tapia Mendieta Violeta
Published: September 2017

Se han elaborado normas percentilares y Puntajes Z para una población escolar de segundo a sexto grado de Lima metropolitana, pertenecientes a centros educativos estatales y particulares. Las variables tenidas en cuenta son edad y grado escolar. Previamente se realizó la adaptación cultural de algunos ítemes mediante análisis psicométrico verificándose la validez y confiabilidad del instrumento.
Efectos de un programa de estimulación del lenguaje en niños con bajo rendimiento escolar residentes en un asentamiento humano de Chorrillos
Authors: Dioses Chocano Alejandro , Morocho Seminario José , Velásquez Centeno Carlos , Cuzcano Zapata Abel , Díaz Acosta Gloria
Published: September 2017

El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar si un programa sistemático de estimulación del lenguaje. que incidiera en los aspectos léxico semánticos, mejoraba el rendimiento en el área de comunicación integral de niños con bajo rendimiento escolar que cursaban el primer grado de educación primaria en un colegio perteneciente a una zona urbano-marginal de Lima Metropolitana. Se estudiaron dos grupos de niños de 30 y 22 alumnos cada uno, el primero de ellos, que presentaba bajo rendimiento escolar, participó en el programa de estimulación del lenguaje, mientras que el segundo, conformado por niños con rendimiento escolar promedio, sirvió de grupo control, ambos grupos asistían al mismo colegio y eran atendidos por los mismos maestros. Se utilizó una prueba de fluidez léxica y una de vocabulario, las cuales fueron administradas a ambos grupos antes y después de la experiencia, asimismo, se controlaron las notas del área de comunicación integral obtenidas por los niños en los exámenes rendidos en el aula. Los resultados obtenidos mostraron que existe un incremento significativo en el vocabulario." la fluidez léxica de los alumnos que participaron del programa, como cual se demuestra que el diseño curricular planteado es valido para mejorar estos aspectos del lenguaje: sin embargo; dichos logros no se reflejaron en incrementos significativos en las puntuaciones alcanzadas durante los exámenes de aula correspondientes al área de comunicación integral.
La reflexión en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes del quinto año de secundaria de Lima Metropolitana
Authors: Escurra Mayaute Luis Miguel
Published: September 2017

Se estudio el uso de la reflexión en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes del quinto año de secundaria de Lima Metropolitana. Los participantes correspondieron a una muestra probabilística estratificada de 942 alumnos pertenecientes de manera representativa a las diferentes USE. Los hallazgos del análisis psicométrico demostraron la validez de contenido, la validez de constructo y la confiabilidad de la escala de Reflexión en el Aprendizaje (ERA-2001).Los resultados alcanzados indicaron que los puntajes de la reflexión en el Aprendizaje en los alumnos de quinto año de Lima Metropolitana presentaron una adecuada aproximación a la distribución normal. El análisis de la aplicación de la reflexión en el aprendizaje indicó que los alumnos de quinto año de secundaria de Lima Metropolitana no utilizan de forma significativa la reflexión en el aprendizaje. Las comparaciones por tipo de colegio de procedencia indicaron que los alumnos de colegios particulares presentaron una mejor Integración, Monitoreo y Reflexión en el aprendizaje. El contraste por género, indicó que los varones presentan una mayor integración y reflexión en el aprendizaje que las mujeres. También se observó que no existieron diferencias estadísticas significativas según el grupo de edad y el lugar de procedencia.