bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Riociguat: an upcoming therapy in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension?
Authors: Kim N. H.
Published: March 2010

Although pulmonary endarterectomy remains the treatment of choice for patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), not all patients will benefit from or receive this highly specialised surgery. Patients whose CTEPH is deemed inoperable by an experienced centre and patients with persistent pulmonary hypertension after surgery are candidates for trial of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) specific pharmacotherapies. However, the currently available PAH specific pharmacotherapies have not demonstrated a clear benefit in either of these patient groups. Accordingly, PAH therapies remain off-label for use in CTEPH.

Riociguat (BAY 63-2521) is a stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase, and may represent a novel agent in the treatment of select patients with CTEPH. Pre-clinical and human phase II studies with riociguat have reported promising results, and a multinational, randomised, controlled, double-blinded phase III study is currently underway to investigate the effect of riociguat in patients with inoperable CTEPH and those with persistent or recurrent pulmonary hypertension following pulmonary endarterectomy.
Comparison of Views of the Nature of Science between Natural Science and Nonscience Majors
Authors: Miller Marie C. Desaulniers , Montplaisir Lisa M. , Offerdahl Erika G. , Cheng Fu-Chih , Ketterling Gerald L.
Published: March 2010

Science educators have the common goal of helping students develop scientific literacy, including understanding of the nature of science (NOS). University faculties are challenged with the need to develop informed NOS views in several major student subpopulations, including science majors and nonscience majors. Research into NOS views of undergraduates, particularly science majors, has been limited. In this study, NOS views of undergraduates in introductory environmental science and upper-level animal behavior courses were measured using Likert items and open-ended prompts. Analysis revealed similarities in students' views between the two courses; both populations held a mix of naïve, transitional, and moderately informed views. Comparison of pre- and postcourse mean scores revealed significant changes in NOS views only in select aspects of NOS. Student scores on sections addressing six aspects of NOS were significantly different in most cases, showing notably uninformed views of the distinctions between scientific theories and laws. Evidence-based insight into student NOS views can aid in reforming undergraduate science courses and will add to faculty and researcher understanding of the impressions of science held by undergraduates, helping educators improve scientific literacy in future scientists and diverse college graduates.
Editorial: Lepromatous leprosy, lipids, and lessons in immunology: what we can learn by using modern methods to study an ancient disease
Authors: Fink Mitchell P
Published: March 2010

Lepromatous leprosy, a chronic disease caused by an obligate intracellular pathogen, is associated with increased formation of lipid droplets and these intracellular organelles might play an important role in modifying host responses to the pathogen.
Response to “The Src/PI3K/Akt pathway may play a key role in the production of IL-17 in obesity”
Authors: Fantuzzi Giamila
Published: March 2010

Reply to letter by Jiezhong Chen.
Article 3 of the Human Rights Act 1998 and the treatment of prisoners
Authors: Curtice Martin , Sandford John
Published: March 2010

The humane treatment of prisoners has long been considered a mark of a civilised society. Early prison reformers such as Elizabeth Fry and John Howard campaigned vigorously for the improvement of conditions for inmates and for institutions to be focused as much on reform and rehabilitation as on punishment. This progressive improvement in conditions for those imprisoned has been further advanced by the European Convention on Human Rights and its incorporation into UK law. The Human Rights Act 1998 is playing an ever-increasing role in determining the standards of treatment of those detained by the state. Article 3 of the Act – freedom from torture and inhuman and degrading treatment – is of particular importance for those detained in prisons, hospitals and other institutions. As Article 3 case law has evolved, so its interpretation has broadened to include a thorough scrutiny of prison conditions, prison healthcare and the treatment of prisoners in general.
Immigration policy: implications for mental health services
Authors: Bacon Lucy , Bourne Rebekah , Oakley Clare , Humphreys Martin
Published: March 2010

Immigration is increasing and government policies are shifting. Clinicians need to be aware of the mental health needs of immigrants and the challenges of delivering appropriate care. In certain circumstances there are potential conflicts between doctors' clinical, ethical and legal responsibilities. Detention of refugees and asylum seekers may have a detrimental effect on mental health and can result in significant psychiatric morbidity. Ongoing management of foreign nationals following hospital treatment may be complicated by the threat of deportation and its implications for the patient's mental health.
Evaluating psychological treatments for children with autism-spectrum disorders
Authors: Howlin Patricia
Published: March 2010

The internet abounds with promises of ‘miracle cures’ for autism and within the published research literature there are numerous claims and counter-claims for the effectiveness of specific therapies. Systematic evaluations, however, indicate that few treatment programmes have a sound evidence base, and even those interventions that do produce positive findings are not successful for all children. To date, the best researched programmes are those involving intensive, early, home-based intervention, and those with a focus on communication and parent–child interaction. This article assesses the evidence base for some of the better evaluated therapies. There is, as yet, no evidence that any one programme is superior to all others. Indeed, large individual differences in response to intervention suggest that the focus of research now needs to shift to the study of which components of therapy work best for which children and under which conditions.
Seeing the evidence: learning from images in neuroscience
Authors: Cookson John
Published: March 2010

The cover of this issue heralds a series of articles in which a visual image derived from cell biology or neuroscience is used to promote understanding of the biological mechanisms fundamental to psychiatry. ‘Images in neuroscience’ are intended to demonstrate the structures and mechanisms of the basic building blocks of brain function, including ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, second messenger systems, specialised ion channels, transmitter pathways, transporters, neuroglial function, and the complex mechanisms within cells that are being revealed, as new genetic associations for mental illness are discovered.
Cognitive style, personality and vulnerability to postnatal
depression
Authors: Jones Lisa , Scott Jan , Cooper Caroline , Forty Liz , Smith Katherine Gordon , Sham Pak , Farmer Anne , McGuffin Peter , Craddock Nick , Jones Ian
Published: March 2010

Background

Only some women with recurrent major depressive disorder experience
postnatal episodes. Personality and/or cognitive styles might increase
the likelihood of experiencing postnatal depression.

Aims

To establish whether personality and cognitive style predicts
vulnerability to postnatal episodes over and above their known
relationship to depression in general.

Method

We compared personality and cognitive style in women with recurrent major
depressive disorder who had experienced one or more postnatal episodes
(postnatal depression (PND) group, n=143) with healthy
female controls (control group, n=173). We also examined
parous women with recurrent major depressive disorder who experienced no
perinatal episodes (non-postnatal depression (NPND) group,
n=131).

Results

The PND group had higher levels of neuroticism and dysfunctional beliefs,
and lower self-esteem than the control group. However, there were no
significant differences between the PND and NPND groups.

Conclusions

Established personality and cognitive vulnerabilities for depression were
reported by women with a history of postnatal depression, but there was
no evidence that any of these traits or styles confer a specific risk for
the postnatal onset of episodes.
Adolescent clinical outcomes for young people with
attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Langley Kate , Fowler Tom , Ford Tamsin , Thapar Ajay K. , van den Bree Marianne , Harold Gordon , Owen Michael J. , O'Donovan Michael C. , Thapar Anita
Published: March 2010

Background

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is recognised as a
common, disabling condition. Little information is available regarding
the long-term outcomes for individuals with ADHD in the UK.

Aims

To examine the 5-year outcome for a UK cohort of children with diagnosed,
treated ADHD and identify whether maternal and social factors predict key
outcomes.

Method

One hundred and twenty-six school-aged children (mean age 9.4 years, s.d.
= 1.7) diagnosed with ADHD were reassessed 5 years later during
adolescence (mean age 14.5 years, s.d. = 1.7) for ADHD, conduct disorder
and other antisocial behaviours.

Results

Most adolescents (69.8%) continued to meet full criteria for ADHD, were
known to specialist services and exhibited high levels of antisocial
behaviour, criminal activity and substance use problems. Maternal
childhood conduct disorder predicted offspring ADHD continuity; maternal
childhood conduct disorder, lower child IQ and social class predicted
offspring conduct disorder symptoms.

Conclusions

The treatment and monitoring of ADHD need to be intensified as outcomes
are poor especially in offspring of mothers with childhood conduct
disorder symptoms.
Electroconvulsive therapy, practice and evidence
Authors: Scott Allan I. F.
Published: March 2010

This issue includes the findings from the largest randomised controlled
trial ever conducted with bilateral, unilateral and bifrontal
electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The background to the study and its
findings are discussed.
Treating personality disorder in community mental health teams
Authors: Duggan Conor
Published: March 2010

Although personality disorders are prevalent conditions and the cause of considerable morbidity, their management remains controversial. The rationale for using psychotropic medication in these conditions is poorly articulated and its evidence base is weak. Nonetheless, psychiatrists continue to prescribe medication for this group as the accompanying paper makes clear. What is less clear is their reason for doing so, as there are frequent co-occurring conditions that might justify the use of medication in their own right. If the field is to progress, there is no substitute for well-designed randomised controlled trials and these ought to be a priority in the setting of any research agenda.
Solvent Diversity in the Preparation of Alkanethiol-capped Gold Nanoparticles. An Approach with a Gold(I) Thiolate Complex
Authors: Sugie Atsushi , Yamanaka Takeshi , Kumazawa Kenta , Hatta Tomomi , Ueda Yasukiyo , Kanie Kiyoshi , Muramatsu Atsushi , Mori Atsunori
Published: March 2010

The reaction of highly soluble gold(I) thiolate complex of tributylphosphine or 2-aminoethanol with a reducing agent gives gold nanoparticles. The complex is soluble in various solvents such as hexane, toluene, THF, Et2O, and water.
Two-photon Absorption Properties of Novel Conjugated Dyes Containing a Benzophenone Unit
Authors: Liu Jian , Gao Fang , Yang Long , Wang Chunfeng , Li Hongru , Zhang Shengtao
Published: March 2010

A variety of new conjugated dyes bearing a benzophenone unit were synthesized, and the linear absorption and emission were determined. Two-photon absorption properties of the derivatives have been measured by a Ti:sapphire femtosecond laser tuning from 720 to 880 nm at intervals of 20 nm. One- and two-photon optical properties of the derivatives were found to be significantly dependent on their chemical structures.
Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Material as New Matrices of Proton-conducting Membranes
Authors: Yamada Hirotoshi , Aono Shintaro , Moriguchi Isamu
Published: March 2010

Organic–inorganic composite proton-conducting membranes were prepared by using a hybrid organic–inorganic matrix Compoceran® E201 that consists of an epoxy prepolymer and a siloxane part. It was demonstrated that the compound disperses proton-conducting Cs-substituted phosphotungstic acid (Cs-PWA) particles uniformly in spite of the large difference in densities. Relatively high proton conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1 was obtained at 160 °C and at RH of 80% for the membrane with the weight ratio Cs-PWA/E201 = 1.6.
Spin-crossover Change from Gradual to Abrupt Types for an Iron(III) Complex
Authors: Hayami Shinya , Urakami Daisuke , Yamamoto Yuuki , Kato Kazuya , Kojima Yoshihiro , Nakashima Satoru , Inoue Katsuya
Published: March 2010

Iron(III) spin-crossover compound with acpa ligand [Fe(acpa)2]ClO4 (1) was prepared and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, Mössbauer spectra, and magnetic susceptibilities, where acpa is a tridentate ligand derived from acetylacetone and 2-aminomethylpyridine. The iron(III) compound 1 displayed a structural phase transition at 250 K, and the spin-crossover behavior for 1 changed from gradual to abrupt before and after the structural phase transition.
Synthesis of Hollow Zeolite Composite Spheres by Using β-Zeolite Crystal as Template
Authors: Zheng Jiajun , Zeng Qinghu , Ma Jinghong , Zhang Xiweng , Sun Wanfu , Li Ruifeng
Published: March 2010

Core–shell microspheres with BEA and FAU zeolite structures (denoted as BEA–FAU) were prepared through a two-step hydrothermal crystallization process in which a β-zeolite was used as silicon source for the synthesis of Y zeolite as well as a template for the formation of hollow sphere. Scaning electron microscopy and intrusive mercury experiments displayed the as-synthesized sample had extra-large pores of 2–3 µm; a possible formation mechanism of BEA–FAU hollow spheres was proposed and discussed.
Resonance Raman Study of a High-valent Fe=O Porphyrin Complex as a Model for Peroxidase Compound II
Authors: Ishimaru Hirohito , Fujii Hiroshi , Ogura Takashi
Published: March 2010

Resonance Raman spectroscopy is applied to a FeIV oxo porphyrin with imidazolate as the axial ligand. The νFe=O mode is observed at 792 cm−1, which is 23 cm−1 lower than that of the analogous 1–methylimidazole complex and similar to that of horseradish peroxidase compound II (787 cm−1) at alkaline pH, for which presence of an anionic histidine was previously postulated. This study thus provides a useful model compound of horseradish peroxidase compound II.
Highly Soluble Penta[(alkyl)dimethylsilylmethyl][60]fullerenes and Their Ruthenium and Palladium Complexes
Authors: Matsuo Yutaka , Muramatsu Ayako , Lu Jiang , Nakamura Eiichi
Published: March 2010

Copper-mediated fivefold addition of RMe2SiCH2MgCl to [60]fullerene produces C60(CH2SiMe2R)5H (R = H, Et, n-Bu, and n-hexyl), which can be further converted into ruthenium and palladium complexes. These organofullerenes and metal–fullerene complexes, particularly when R = n-Hex, are highly soluble in various organic solvents, e.g., 107 mg mL−1 solubility in EtOAc and >1000 mg mL−1 in hexane, where C60Me5H is essentially insoluble.
Adherence to therapeutic splint wear in adults with acute upper limb injuries: a systematic review
Authors: O'Brien Lisa
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Non-adherence with therapeutic splinting in acute hand injury can reduce treatment benefits, increase risk of disability and bias assessment of treatment efficacy. This systematic review aims to critically analyse the literature on splinting of acute upper limb injuries to identify key factors that could influence patient adherence with splint wear.

Methods

Trials were identified from searches of EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL (to June 2009) and reference lists of articles and relevant reviews. Search terms used were patient compliance/adherence behaviour, splint/s, othosis/es and brace. Where possible, randomized controlled trials or prospective cohort studies were sought, and then cross-sectional and retrospective studies if the former were not available. Studies specifically addressing chronic conditions were excluded. All relevant trials were assessed for methodological quality by the author using explicit criteria. Data were extracted using a standardized form designed by the author.

Results

Six studies (one randomized controlled trial, two cross-sectional analytic surveys and three retrospective file reviews) involving 490 people were included. Owing to the heterogeneity of studies synthesis is narrative rather than quantitative. There was no consistent correlation between adherence and age or gender. One study found a correlation with patient perception of positive effect, and one found negative correlations with agitation and brain injury severity.

Discussion

Studies found were generally of varied quality and may be susceptible to bias. This is a field with little published scientific evidence, and future research should measure adherence relationships with socioeconomic, health-care system, therapy- and patient-related characteristics.
Polyethylene wear in Oxford unicompartmental knee replacement
Authors: Kendrick B. J. L. , Longino D. , Pandit H. , Svard U. , Gill H. S. , Dodd C. A. F. , Murray D. W. , Price A. J.
Published: March 2010

The Oxford Unicompartmental Knee replacement (UKR) was introduced as a design to reduce polyethylene wear. There has been one previous retrieval study involving this implant, which reported very low rates of wear in some specimens but abnormal patterns of wear in others. There has been no further investigation of these abnormal patterns. The bearings were retrieved from 47 patients who had received a medial Oxford UKR for anteromedial osteoarthritis of the knee. None had been studied previously. The mean time to revision was 8.4 years (sd 4.1), with 20 having been implanted for over ten years. The macroscopic pattern of polyethylene wear and the linear penetration were recorded for each bearing. The mean rate of linear penetration was 0.07 mm/year. The patterns of wear fell into three categories, each with a different rate of linear penetration; 1) no abnormal macroscopic wear and a normal articular surface, n = 16 (linear penetration rate = 0.01 mm/year); 2) abnormal macroscopic wear and normal articular surfaces with extra-articular impingement, n = 16 (linear penetration rate = 0.05 mm/year); 3) abnormal macroscopic wear and abnormal articular surfaces with intra-articular impingement +/− signs of non-congruous articulation, n = 15 (linear penetration rate = 0.12 mm/year). The differences in linear penetration rate were statistically significant (p < 0.001).

These results show that very low rates of polyethylene wear are possible if the device functions normally. However, if the bearing displays suboptimal function (extra-articular, intra-articular impingement or incongruous articulation) the rates of wear increase significantly.
Increased strain in the femoral neck following insertion of a resurfacing femoral prosthesis
Authors: Wik T. S. , Østbyhaug P. O. , Klaksvik J. , Aamodt A.
Published: March 2010

The cortical strains on the femoral neck and proximal femur were measured before and after implantation of a resurfacing femoral component in 13 femurs from human cadavers. These were loaded into a hip simulator for single-leg stance and stair-climbing. After resurfacing, the mean tensile strain increased by 15% (95% confidence interval (CI) 6 to 24, p = 0.003) on the lateral femoral neck and the mean compressive strain increased by 11% (95% CI 5 to 17, p = 0.002) on the medial femoral neck during stimulation of single-leg stance. On the proximal femur the deformation pattern remained similar to that of the unoperated femurs.

The small increase of strains in the neck area alone would probably not be sufficient to cause fracture of the neck However, with patient-related and surgical factors these strain changes may contribute to the risk of early periprosthetic fracture.
Bone-turnover markers in fracture healing
Authors: Cox G. , Einhorn T. A. , Tzioupis C. , Giannoudis P. V.
Published: March 2010

Biochemical markers of bone-turnover have long been used to complement the radiological assessment of patients with metabolic bone disease. Their implementation in daily clinical practice has been helpful in the understanding of the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, the selection of the optimal dose and the understanding of the progression of the onset and resolution of treatment. Since they are derived from both cortical and trabecular bone, they reflect the metabolic activity of the entire skeleton rather than that of individual cells or the process of mineralisation.

Quantitative changes in skeletal-turnover can be assessed easily and non-invasively by the measurement of bone-turnover markers. They are commonly subdivided into three categories; 1) bone-resorption markers, 2) osteoclast regulatory proteins and 3) bone-formation markers. Because of the rapidly accumulating new knowledge of bone matrix biochemistry, attempts have been made to use them in the interpretation and characterisation of various stages of the healing of fractures. Early knowledge of the individual progress of a fracture could help to avoid delayed or nonunion by enabling modification of the host’s biological response.

The levels of bone-turnover markers vary throughout the course of fracture repair with their rates of change being dependent on the size of the fracture and the time that it will take to heal. However, their short-term biological variability, the relatively low bone specificity exerted, given that the production and destruction of collagen is not limited to bone, as well as the influence of the host’s metabolism on their concentration, produce considerable intra- and inter-individual variability in their interpretation. Despite this, the possible role of bone-turnover markers in the assessment of progression to union, the risks of delayed or nonunion and the impact of innovations to accelerate fracture healing must not be ignored.
The cerebral palsy hip classification is reliable
Authors: Murnaghan M. L. , Simpson P. , Robin J. G. , Shore B. J. , Selber P. , Graham H. K.
Published: March 2010

We have tested the reliability of a recently reported classification system of hip morphology in adolescents with cerebral palsy in whom the triradiate cartilage was closed. The classification is a six-grade ordinal scale, based on the measurement of the migration percentage and an assessment of Shenton’s arch, deformity of the femoral head, acetabular deformity and pelvic obliquity.

Four paediatric orthopaedic surgeons and four physiotherapists received training in the use of the classification which they applied to the assessment of 42 hip radiographs, read on two separate occasions. The inter- and intra-observer reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient and found to be excellent, with it ranging from 0.88 to 0.94. The classification in our study was shown to be valid (based on migration percentage), and reliable. As a result we believe that it can now be used in studies describing the natural history of hip displacement in cerebral palsy, in outcome studies and in communication between clinicians.
Role of 2-deoxy-2-[F-18] fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography in the management of bone and soft-tissue metastases
Authors: Yanagawa T. , Shinozaki T. , Iizuka Y. , Takagishi K. , Watanabe H.
Published: March 2010

We retrospectively reviewed 71 histopathologically-confirmed bone and soft-tissue metastases of unknown origin at presentation. In order to identify the site of the primary tumour all 71 cases were examined with conventional procedures, including CT, serum tumour markers, a plain radiograph, ultrasound examination and endoscopic examinations, and 24 of the 71 cases underwent 2-deoxy-2-[F-18] fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET). This detected multiple bone metastases in nine patients and the primary site in 12 of the 24 cases; conventional studies revealed 16 primary tumours. There was no significant difference in sensitivity between FDG-PET and conventional studies.

The mean maximal standardised uptake value of the metastatic tumours was significantly higher than that of the primary tumours, which is likely to explain why FDG-PET did not provide better results. It was not superior to conventional procedures in the search for the primary site of bone and soft-tissue metastases; however, it seemed to be useful in the staging of malignancy.
Is the so-called ‘French paradox’ a reality?
Authors: El Masri F. , Kerboull L. , Kerboull M. , Courpied J. P. , Hamadouche M.
Published: March 2010

We have evaluated the in vivo migration patterns of 164 primary consecutive Charnley-Kerboull total hip replacements which were undertaken in 155 patients. The femoral preparation included removal of diaphyseal cancellous bone to obtain primary rotational stability of the stem before line-to-line cementing. We used the Ein Bild Roentgen Analyse femoral component method to assess the subsidence of the femoral component.

At a mean of 17.3 years (15.1 to 18.3) 73 patients were still alive and had not been revised, eight had been revised, 66 had died and eight had been lost to follow-up. The mean subsidence of the entire series was 0.63 mm (0.0 to 1.94). When using a 1.5 mm threshold, only four stems were considered to have subsided. Our study showed that, in most cases, a highly polished double-tapered stem cemented line-to-line does not subside at least up to 18 years after implantation.
Beyond benefit-sharing agreements: bioprospecting for the poor?
Authors: Torri Maria-Costanza
Published: March 2010

This article investigates whether novel benefit-sharing arrangements might give rise to a new form of bioprospecting activity through the examination of what appears to be a new model of bioprospecting represented by Gram Mooligai Company Limited (GMCL). GMCL, which is a community-based
enterprise active in herbal sector in India, sells medicinal herbs and commercializes phytomedicines using the local ethnomedicine knowledge. The article aims to show how an alternative representation of bioprospecting from below can be an instrument to enhance the local livelihoods of communities
and promote their empowerment and capacity building.
Assessment of the impact of a farmer-to-farmer learning and innovation scaling out process on technology adaptation, farm income and diversification in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Taweekul Krailert , Caldwell John , Yamada Ryuichi , Fujimoto Akimi
Published: March 2010

A farmer-to-farmer learning and innovation process (FFLP) for technology development was developed in four districts in Northeast Thailand, and changes in farm income and diversification of 100 farmers (25 per village) were assessed in 2005, before FFLP was begun in 2006 and 2007. Forty
per cent of farmers obtained information from FFLP for herbal repellent and liquid organic fertilizer. Eighty-three per cent of farmers adapted at least one of the four technologies. Farmers adapting cassava-based animal feed increased 39 per cent, herbal extraction increased 111 per cent,
liquid organic fertilizer increased 116 per cent and custard apple management increased 156 per cent. Principal reasons for adapting these technologies were reduced cost, increased farm yield, chemical free products and reduced pests. Adapting farmers had 99 per cent (2006) and 141 per cent
(2007) higher farm income than non-adapting farmers. Farmers with three agricultural diversification activities increased by 850 per cent from 2005 to 2007.
Entrepreneurship as driver of a self-organizing system of innovation: the case of NERICA in Benin
Authors: Dalohoun Daniel N , Hall Andy , Van Mele Paul
Published: March 2010

Understanding how an innovation system emerges and develops is critical to its promotion and to ensuring successful innovation processes. Unfortunately, research on innovation system approaches has neglected the interplay between innovation and entrepreneurship and overlooked focus
on how innovation systems occur. Based on a unique framework integrating the innovation systems concept and entrepreneurship theory, this study uncovers a process of innovation system formation: a self-organizing system of innovation based on a promising technology: the New Rice for Africa
(NERICA). This finding highlights the pre-eminent role of entrepreneurship in innovation processes, thereby posing new challenges for development actors and opening up a new avenue for research into innovations.
Embedding research in society: development assistance options for supporting agricultural innovation in a global knowledge economy
Authors: Hall Andy
Published: March 2010

The emergence of a globalized knowledge economy, and the contemporary views of innovation capacity that this trend enables and informs, provides a new context in which development assistance to agricultural research and development needs to be considered. The main argument in this article,
which focuses on the Netherlands, is that development assistance should use this emerging scenario to identify niches where inputs can add value to the R&D investments of others, particularly in activities that help wire up innovation systems, linking R&D to other activities and actors
in society. The article outlines four agricultural innovation priorities and guiding principles for development assistance that could help strengthen national and global innovation capacity. These trends also raise many tensions and dilemmas for the development research community in northern
countries. A key message of this article is that these tensions could be better handled if a long-term vision for development assistance to science, technology and innovation (ST&I) which recognized the contingencies of the global knowledge economy and the importance of participation in
the resolution of international issues that affect all countries were in place. The article concludes by suggesting that national development assistance policies on ST&I cannot be thought of separately from a country's general ST&I policy as participation in the resolution of international
issues is a key element of a country's comparative advantage. This requires investments in expertise in the North and not just financial assistance to the South.
Evaluation of the new body fluid mode on the Sysmex XE-5000 for counting leukocytes and erythrocytes in cerebrospinal fluid and other body fluids
Authors: de Jonge Robert , Brouwer Rob , de Graaf Marieke T. , Luitwieler Ronald L. , Fleming Cherina , de Frankrijker-Merkestijn Magda , Sillevis Smitt Peter A.E. , Boonstra Joke G. , Lindemans Jan
Published: March 2010

Background: We evaluated the body fluid (BF) mode on the new Sysmex XE-5000 analyzer.

Methods: Red (RBC) and white blood cell (WBC) (differential) counts of BFs (139 patient samples and 87 normal samples) were measured and compared to the Fuchs-Rosenthal chamber and stained cytospin slides.

Results: Extended cell counting using the BF mode was noted to have an improved WBC detection limit (CV20%) of 10×106/L. Excellent agreement with the manual method was observed for most BFs [mean bias +2 to 6×106/L for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and –1 to 12×106/L for other fluids]. In CSF, the BF-mode counted more WBC (polymorphic nuclear cells) compared with the manual method (mean bias +5 to 6×106/L), especially in samples with low cell counts (<20×106/L). Carry over was negligible (mostly <0.17%) and linearity was excellent (mean bias <5%). The reference ranges for CSF (n=87) were RBC 0×106/L, WBC and mononuclear <7×106/L, and polymorph nucleated cells <3×106/L.

Conclusions: The BF mode on the Sysmex XE-5000 offers rapid and accurate RBC and WBC (differential) counts in clinically relevant concentration ranges in CSF and other fluids. In addition, the exclusion of high fluorescent cells, such as mesothelial cells and macrophages from WBC counting may reduce the number of manual analyses in pleural fluids and ascites.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:665–75.
Medicinas Alternativas e Complementares: uma metassíntese
Authors: Spadacio Cristiane , Castellanos Marcelo Eduardo Pfeiffer , Barros Nelson Filice de , Alegre Sarah Monte , Tovey Philip , Broom Alex
Published: March 2010

O aumento do uso de Medicinas Alternativas e Complementares (MAC) motivou o crescimento do número de estudos qualitativos sobre o tema, justificando a realização de sínteses sobre esse material. Este artigo apresenta uma revisão sistemática de pesquisas qualitativas sobre MAC publicadas em periódicos internacionais. Esta revisão se orientou pela metodologia dos metaestudos. Foi realizada busca em revistas do Portal Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior e foram selecionados 32 artigos para análise. Os estudos revisados apresentam questões que têm como foco: o paciente, suas experiências terapêuticas e seus contextos sociais e culturais; o profissional, as relações profissionais e o processo de profissionalização das MAC; a MAC e sua relação com a biomedicina. Conclui-se que as pesquisas qualitativas sobre as MAC ensejam um olhar exploratório sobre o tema, procurando identificar as experiências de pacientes e profissionais com essas terapêuticas, assim como buscam discutir as conseqüências desse uso para a Medicina Convencional ou biomedicina.
Avaliação do programa de promoção da atividade física Academia da Cidade de Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil: percepções de usuários e não-usuários
Authors: Hallal Pedro C. , Tenório Maria Cecília Marinho , Tassitano Rafael Miranda , Reis Rodrigo Siqueira , Carvalho Yara Maria , Cruz Danielle Keylla Alencar , Damascena Wilson , Malta Deborah Carvalho
Published: March 2010

O objetivo foi descrever usuários e não-usuários do Programa Academia da Cidade de Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. Foram selecionados quatro dos 19 pólos do programa. Para cada usuário sorteado, foi selecionado um não-usuário, que foi pareado ao usuário em termos de sexo, idade (±5 anos) e local de residência. A amostra foi composta por 277 usuários e 277 não-usuários. Entre os não-usuários, 22% referiram nunca ter ouvido falar do programa. Entre os que já ouviram falar do programa, 54,3% o conhecem por terem visto um pólo. Entre os usuários, o principal motivo para a participação no programa foi "melhorar a saúde"; o tempo médio de participação no programa foi de 27,5 meses (DP = 23,1) e 72,8% relataram grau elevado de satisfação. O percentual de pessoas com percepção de saúde regular ou ruim foi significativamente maior entre os não-usuários (45,4%) em comparação aos usuários (28,5%). Os usuários do Programa Academia da Cidade parecem estar satisfeitos. Estratégias de divulgação devem ser priorizadas para que o programa seja conhecido por um maior percentual de residentes de Recife.
Prevalência de capacidade mastigatória insatisfatória e fatores associados em idosos brasileiros
Authors: Dias-da-Costa Juvenal Soares , Galli Rosângela , Oliveira Edilson Almeida de , Backes Vanessa , Vial Eloir Antonio , Canuto Raquel , Souza Leonardo Lemos de , Cremonese Cleber , Olinto Maria Teresa Anselmo , Pattussi Marcos Pascoal , Triches Jureci Machado
Published: March 2010

Estimou-se a prevalência de capacidade mastigatória insatisfatória referida e fatores associados entre a população de 65 a 74 anos no Brasil. Este estudo faz parte da pesquisa Condições de Saúde Bucal da População Brasileira com 5.124 idosos de 250 municípios. Os dados foram coletados nos domicílios incluindo exame dentário e entrevista. A análise utilizou regressão de Poisson, 2.546 pessoas (49,7%; IC95%: 47,5-51,8) referiram capacidade mastigatória insatisfatória. Na análise ajustada, estavam associadas as variáveis: cor da pele negra (RP = 1,13; IC95%: 1,02-1,26); baixa renda (RP = 1,22; IC95%: 1,12-1,33.); ter dor de dente nos últimos meses (RP = 1,47; IC95%: 1,39-1,57), nunca ir ao dentista (RP = 1,26; IC95%: 1,10-1,44), não receber orientações preventivas (RP = 1,09; IC95%: 1,02-1,17) ter dentes perdidos (RP = 1,66; IC95%: 1,02-2,66), cáries não tratadas (RP = 1,16; IC95%: 1,08-1,25), usar prótese parcial (RP = 0,87; IC95%: 0,76-0,99) ou total (RP = 0,81; IC95%: 0,75-0,88) e necessitar prótese dentária parcial (RP = 1,13; IC95%: 1,03-1,25) ou total (RP = 1,27; IC95%: 1,16-1,39). Assim, aponta para a priorização dos idosos levando-se em consideração seus fatores associados.
Validity and reliability of self-reported weight, height and body mass index from telephone interviews
Authors: Lucca Alessandra , Moura Erly Catarina
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to examine factors associated with the validity of self-reported anthropometric measures. The authors selected 726 adults, aged 40 or older, living in the greater metropolitan region of São Paulo, Brazil. Self-reported weights and heights obtained from telephone interviews were compared to values measured directly by means of a multicenter survey. Mean differences (±SD) between self-reported and measured weights and heights among men were 0.54 (±0.30kg) and 1.98 (±0.31cm); while among women, they were -0.48 (±0.23kg) and 3.97 (±0.28cm), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity to diagnose obesity were 71% and 98% for males, and 78% and 96%, for females, respectively. There was good agreement between measured and self-reported weights and body mass index (BMI) among both sexes, however, self-reported height was less reliable. Self-reported weight and height obtained from telephone interviews are valid to estimate the obesity prevalence in this population, although systematic bias was found. Thus, it is desirable that researchers develop their own equations depending on the population being studied.
Dietary patterns and risk of oral and pharyngeal cancer: a case-control study in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Toledo Ana Lucia Araujo de , Koifman Rosalina Jorge , Koifman Sergio , Marchioni Dirce Maria Lobo
Published: March 2010

The study investigated the association between dietary patterns and oral cancer as part of a Latin American multicenter hospital-based case-control study, and included 210 incident cases of oral cancer and 251 controls. Dietary data were collected using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Factor analysis was used to define dietary patterns, which were categorized into terciles. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated using unconditional multiple logistic regression. The patterns "prudent", characterized mainly by vegetables and fruits, and "traditional", by rice, and pulses showed an inverse association with oral cancer for the higher tercile, respectively, OR = 0.44; 95%CI: 0.25-0.75, p value for trend (p tend) = 0.03; OR = 0.53; 95%CI: 0.30-0.93, p tend = 0.06. The "snacks pattern" was not associated with oral cancer. Besides the protective effect of a diet rich in vegetables and fruit, our data suggest that the traditional Brazilian diet, consisting mostly of rice and beans, may improve protection against oral cancer.
Sexualidade e reprodução: usos e valores relativos ao desejo de filhos entre casais de camadas médias no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Vargas Eliane Portes , Russo Jane A. , Heilborn Maria Luiza
Published: March 2010

Este trabalho analisa aspectos constitutivos da dinâmica sexual conjugal moderna entre casais de orientação heterossexual como parte dos resultados de uma pesquisa etnográfica realizada com "casais inférteis" no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil (2004-2005). O grupo investigado pode ser culturalmente definido por sua imersão na configuração de valores individualistas. Analisamos certos aspectos referidos pelos casais a partir dos investimentos em recursos médicos conceptivos. Destacam-se as idéias de "privacidade" e "espontaneidade" como expressões obrigatórias do exercício da sexualidade e da reprodução. Partiu-se do pressuposto de que tanto a experiência reprodutiva quanto a sexual enfatizam a primazia da representação de uma suposta liberdade de escolha. Como estratégia metodológica, privilegiou-se a trajetória de vida dos casais utilizando entrevistas semi-estruturadas e observação no contexto das entrevistas. Os resultados apontam formas divergentes, ou mesmo contraditórias, de vivenciar a experiência da parentalidade: de um lado, o filho como resultado "natural" da relação conjugal e, de outro, como fruto de uma escolha racional.
Stoichiometric controls on carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus dynamics in decomposing litter
Authors: Manzoni Stefano , Trofymow John A. , Jackson Robert B. , Porporato Amilcare
Published: March 2010

The mineralization of nitrogen and phosphorus from plant residues provides an important input of inorganic nutrients to the soil, which can be taken up by plants. The dynamics of nutrient mineralization or immobilization during decomposition are controlled by different biological and physical factors. Decomposers sequester carbon and nutrients from organic substrates and exchange inorganic nutrients with the environment to maintain their stoichiometric balance. Additionally, physical losses of organic compounds from leaching and other processes may alter the nutrient content of litter. In this work, we extend a stoichiometric model of litter nitrogen mineralization to include (1) phosphorus mineralization, (2) physical losses of organic nutrients, and (3) chemical heterogeneity of litter substrates. The enhanced model provides analytical mineralization curves for nitrogen and phosphorus as well as critical litter carbon : nutrient ratios (the carbon : nutrient ratios below which net nutrient release occurs) as a function of the elemental composition of the decomposers, their carbon‐use efficiency, and the rate of physical loss of organic compounds. The model is used to infer the critical litter carbon : nutrient ratios from observed nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics in about 2600 litterbag samplings from 21 decomposition data sets spanning artic to tropical ecosystems. At the beginning of decomposition, nitrogen and phosphorus tend to be immobilized in boreal and temperate climates (i.e., both C:N and C:P critical ratios are lower than the initial ratios), while in tropical areas nitrogen is generally released and phosphorus may be either immobilized or released, regardless of the typically low phosphorus concentrations. The critical carbon : nutrient ratios we observed were found to increase with initial litter carbon : nutrient ratios, indicating that decomposers adapt to low‐nutrient conditions by reducing their carbon‐use efficiency. This stoichiometric control on nutrient dynamics appears ubiquitous across climatic regions and ecosystems, although other biological and physical processes also play important roles in litter decomposition. In tropical humid conditions, we found high critical C:P ratios likely due to high leaching and low decomposer phosphorus concentrations. In general, the compound effects of stoichiometric constraints and physical losses explain most of the variability in critical carbon : nutrient ratios and dynamics of nutrient immobilization and release at the global scale.
ASSESSING OBSERVER ACCURACY IN CONTINUOUS RECORDING OF RATE AND DURATION: THREE ALGORITHMS COMPARED
Authors: Mudford Oliver C. , Martin Neil T. , Hui Jasmine K. Y. , Taylor Sarah Ann
Published: March 2010

The three algorithms most frequently selected by behavior‐analytic researchers to compute interobserver agreement with continuous recording were used to assess the accuracy of data recorded from video samples on handheld computers by 12 observers. Rate and duration of responding were recorded for three samples each. Data files were compared with criterion records to determine observer accuracy. Block‐by‐block and exact agreement algorithms were susceptible to inflated agreement and accuracy estimates at lower rates and durations. The exact agreement method appeared to be overly stringent for recording responding at higher rates (23.5 responses per minute) and for higher relative duration (72% of session). Time‐window analysis appeared to inflate accuracy assessment at relatively high but not at low response rate and duration (4.8 responses per minute and 8% of session, respectively).
THE EFFECTS OF BEHAVIORAL SKILLS TRAINING ON IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PICTURE EXCHANGE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
Authors: Rosales Rocio , Stone Karen , Rehfeldt Ruth Anne
Published: March 2010

The effectiveness of a behavioral skills training (BST) package to teach the implementation of the first three phases of the picture exchange communication system (PECS) was evaluated with 3 adults who had no history teaching any functional communication system. A multiple baseline design across participants was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the training package, which consisted of a video, written and verbal instructions, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback. Results showed significant improvements relative to baseline in a short amount of training time and that skills generalized to a learner with a severe developmental disability. Skills were maintained at 1 month follow‐up for 1 participant.
GENERALITY OF THE MATCHING LAW AS A DESCRIPTOR OF SHOT SELECTION IN BASKETBALL
Authors: Alferink Larry A. , Critchfield Thomas S. , Hitt Jennifer L. , Higgins William J.
Published: March 2010

Based on a small sample of highly successful teams, past studies suggested that shot selection (two‐ vs. three‐point field goals) in basketball corresponds to predictions of the generalized matching law. We examined the generality of this finding by evaluating shot selection of college (Study 1) and professional (Study 3) players. The matching law accounted for the majority of variance in shot selection, with undermatching and a bias for taking three‐point shots. Shots‐election matching varied systematically for players who (a) were members of successful versus unsuccessful teams, (b) competed at different levels of collegiate play, and (c) served as regulars versus substitutes (Study 2). These findings suggest that the matching law is a robust descriptor of basketball shot selection, although the mechanism that produces matching is unknown.
FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS AND TREATMENT OF MULTIPLY CONTROLLED INAPPROPRIATE MEALTIME BEHAVIOR
Authors: Bachmeyer Melanie H. , Piazza Cathleen C. , Fredrick Laura D. , Reed Gregory K. , Rivas Kristi D. , Kadey Heather J.
Published: March 2010

Functional analyses identified children whose inappropriate mealtime behavior was maintained by escape and adult attention. Function‐based extinction procedures were tested individually and in combination. Attention extinction alone did not result in decreases in inappropriate mealtime behavior or a significant increase in acceptance. By contrast, escape extinction alone resulted in a decrease in inappropriate mealtime behavior and an increase in acceptance. However, inappropriate mealtime behavior did not decrease to clinically acceptable levels. A combined extinction technique (i.e., escape and attention extinction) resulted in a decrease in inappropriate mealtime behavior to clinically acceptable levels and high and stable acceptance.
PARENT‐IMPLEMENTED SCRIPT FADING TO PROMOTE PLAY‐BASED VERBAL INITIATIONS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Reagon Kara A. , Higbee Thomas S.
Published: March 2010

We trained 3 mothers of children with autism to create, implement, and systematically fade scripts to promote vocal initiations during play. All 3 children's scripted and unscripted initiations increased after the introduction and fading of scripts, and unscripted initiations were maintained at the 2‐week follow‐up. The results indicate that parents of children with autism can successfully implement script‐fading procedures in their homes and that these procedures are effective methods to increase vocal initiations during play.