bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Régulations en santé materno-infantile en milieu populaire à partir de la notion de risque
Authors: Faya-Robles Alfonsina
Published: December 2014

Au Brésil, le champ de la santé materno-infantile est de plus en plus investi par les pouvoirs publics, ceci modifiant de manière importante les expériences et les comportements reproductifs des femmes. Cet investissement s’accompagne d’un changement des formes de régulation de la naissance et de l’accouchement, entre processus de médicalisation et de sanitarisation. Dans ce contexte, l’évaluation et la surveillance des risques deviennent fondamentales et suivent des objectifs sanitaires dont celui de la réduction de la mortalité infantile, l’un des « Objectifs du millénaire » des Nations Unies devenu un objectif prioritaire au Brésil. La catégorie épidémiologique de risque organise, dans les services de santé, la prise en charge des grossesses par la distinction des gestations à « bas » et à « haut risque ». Cependant cette notion distingue les grossesses non seulement à partir de critères médicaux mais aussi « sociaux », véhiculant des représentations sociales et des préjugés relatifs aux femmes enceintes considérées « déviantes ». À partir d’une recherche ethnographique dans la ville de Recife, dans le Nordeste brésilien, l'auteur se propose d’examiner l’extension aux femmes de milieu populaire de la catégorie de risque dans le domaine de gestion des grossesses. L’article révèle un glissement de la normalisation des corps des femmes enceintes vers celle de la parentalité et de la maternité, et relativise la force disciplinaire de la catégorie de risque pour montrer comment elle est subjectivée dans l’expérience des femmes.
Kyanmabase, « Bonne santé à vous ! ». Logiques et pratiques d’automédication en Arakan (Birmanie)
Authors: Coderey Céline
Published: December 2014

En s’appuyant sur plusieurs enquêtes de terrain réalisées dans la région arakanaise de Thandwe, en Birmanie, cet article explore la pluralité médicamenteuse existante et la place importante qu’elle revêt – via l’automédication – dans les itinéraires thérapeutiques des malades. L’objectif principal est de montrer comment les choix thérapeutiques effectués par les individus – entre différents produits, entre automédication et recours à des spécialistes – sont conditionnés d’une part par les représentations de la composition des produits et de leur « biographie » et d’autre part par les contingences politiques, sociales et économiques vécues par les individus.
L’épigénétique environnementale et le risque suicidaire : Reconsidérer la notion de contexte dans un style de raisonnement émergent
Authors: Lloyd Stephanie , Raikhel Eugene
Published: December 2014

L’ “épigénétique environnementale” étudie les effets potentiels de l’environnement sur l'expression des gènes à travers un ensemble de mécanismes moléculaires. Ce domaine de la recherche biologique connaît un développement rapide mais reste contesté. Il a été salué par certains spécialistes des sciences sociales à la fois comme un paradigme renversant nombre d’idées reçues concernant l'évolution et l'hérédité, mais aussi comme un signe de l'ouverture d’un espace de recherche proprement biosocial. L’épigénétique environnementale laisse toutefois sceptiques ceux qui n’y voient que la réduction de l'environnement et du contexte social – et les interventions potentielles – à l'échelle des mécanismes moléculaires. Dans cet article, nous explorons ces questions à la lumière d’une recherche ethnographique dans un groupe pluridisciplinaire de chercheurs étudiant le comportement suicidaire. Alors qu'un « style de raisonnement » spécifique émerge de leurs recherches qui molécularisent une gamme de facteurs environnementaux et les localisent dans le cerveau, nous soutenons qu’il reflète davantage, de la part des scientifiques, un « réductionnisme pragmatique » plutôt qu’une conception étroite du suicide. La construction d’explications plus complexes du risque de suicide – intensifiant l’approche interdisciplinaire – n'est en effet pas tant limitée par l'intérêt des chercheurs, que par des contraintes techniques, l’accès à des matières cérébrales spécifiques et le développement de pratiques de recherche innovantes.
BIOMECHANICAL STRATEGIES AND THE LOADS IN THE LOWER LIMBS DURING DOWNHILL WALKING WITH DIFFERENT INCLINATION ANGLES
Authors: Hong Shih-Wun , Wu Cheng-Hua , Lu Tung-Wu , Hu Jwu-Sheng , Li Jia-Da , Leu Tsai-Hsueh , Huang Chia-En
Published: December 2014

Downhill walking places greater demands on the lower limb joints with a greater risk of falling when compared with level walking. The current study aimed to quantify the 3D joint kinematics and kinetics of the locomotor system, and their interactions with the trunk during downhill walking. Fifteen young adults walked at a self-selected pace on a 3-m walkway with slopes of 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15° while their kinematic and kinetic data were measured. A complete 3D biomechanical analysis of the locomotor system was performed on these data. The results showed that with increasing downhill angles young healthy adults increased the posterior tilt of the pelvis and lateral trunk bending towards the stance limb, as well as the peak dorsiflexor and extensor moments at the ankle and knee, respectively, during the first half of the stance phase (SP), and increased the peak moments at the hip during the second half of the SP. The associated joint forces also varied with increasing slopes over the SP. When the overall mechanical demands were considered over the SP, the angular extensor and plantarflexor impulses at the knee and ankle were found to increase linearly with increasing slopes. The current results may serve as baseline data for future studies on downhill walking, and for clinical applications in various patient groups.
Improving Patients’ Readiness for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Chaisson Kristine , Sanford Mary , Boss Richard A. , Leavitt Bruce J. , Hearne Michael J. , Ross Cathy S. , Olmstead Elaine M. , Kramer Robert S. , Hofmaster Patricia , Mingo Cathy , Duquette Dennis , Maislen Elizabeth , Clark Jean A. , Likosky Donald S. , Horton Susan R. , O’Connor Gerald T. , Malenka David J.
Published: December 2014

Background

Preoperative interventions improve outcomes for patients after coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG).

Objective

To reduce mortality for patients undergoing urgent CABG.

Methods

Eight centers implemented preoperative aspirin and statin, preinduction heart rate less than 80/min, hematocrit greater than 30%, blood sugar less than 150 mg/dL (8.3 mmol/L), and delayed surgery at least 3 days after a myocardial infarction. Data were collected on the last 150 isolated, urgent CABGs at each center (n=1200). A “bundle” score of 0 to 100 was calculated for each patient to represent the percentage of interventions used.

Results

Scores ranged from 33 to 100. About 56% of patients had a perfect score. Crude mortality and composite rates were lower in patients with higher scores, but once adjusted for patient and disease characteristics, the difference in scores was not significant. Higher scores were associated with shorter intubation: 6.0 hours (score 100), 8.0 hours (score 80–99), 8.4 hours (score<80) (log-rank P<.001). Median length of stay was shorter for patients with higher scores: 5 days (score 100), 6 days (scores 80–99), and 6 days (scores <80) (log-rank P<.001).

Conclusion

Implementation of interventions to optimize patients’ “readiness for surgery” is associated with shorter intubation times and shorter hospital stays after CABG.
Assessment of the Selenoprotein M (SELM) over-expression on human hepatocellular carcinoma tissues by immunohistochemistry
Authors: Guerriero E. , Accardo M. , Capone F. , Colonna G. , Castello G. , Costantini S.
Published: December 2014

Selenium is an essential trace mineral of fundamental importance to human healthy and exerts its biological function through selenoproteins. In particular, Selenoprotein M (SELM) is located in the endoplasmic reticulum and contains the common redox motif of cysteine-X-X-selenocysteine type. It attracts great attention due to its high expression in brain and its potential roles as antioxidant, neuroprotective, and cytosolic calcium regulator. Recently, our group found SELM over-expression Â in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell lines. In this report some paraffin-embedded tissues from liver biopsy of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cirrhosis and HCC were immunohistochemically stained and SELM expression scoring was evaluated. Our results evidence for the first time an increase of SELM expression in HCC liver tissues, and its gradual expression raise associated with an increased malignancy grade. Therefore, we propose to use i) SELM as putative marker for HCC as well as ii) simple immunohistochemistry technique to distinguish between the different grades of malignancy.Â
Het die tong mag oor dood en lewe?
Authors: Coetsee Albert J.
Published: December 2014

No abstract available.
Generalized Jordan Semiderivations in Prime Rings
Authors: De Filippis Vincenzo , Mamouni Abdellah , Oukhtite Lahcen
Published: December 2014

Let R be a ring and let g be an endomorphism of R. The additive mapping d: R → R is called a Jordan semiderivation of R, associated with g, if

d(x2) = d(x)x + g(x)d(x) = d(x)g(x) + xd(x) and d(g(x)) = g(d(x))

for all x ∊ R. The additive mapping F: R → R is called a generalized Jordan semiderivation of R, related to the Jordan semiderivation d and endomorphism g, if

F(x2) = F(x)x + g(x)d(x) = F(x)g(x) + xd(x) and F(g(x)) = g(F(x))

for all x ∊ R. In this paper we prove that if R is a prime ring of characteristic different from 2, g an endomorphism of R, d a Jordan semiderivation associated with g, F a generalized Jordan semiderivation associated with d and g, then F is a generalized semiderivation of R and d is a semiderivation of R. Moreover, if R is commutative, then F = d.
A neural network approach for the simultaneous retrieval of volcanic ash parameters and SO2 using MODIS data
Authors: Piscini A. , Picchiani M. , Chini M. , Corradini S. , Merucci L. , Del Frate F. , Stramondo S.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. In this work neural networks (NNs) have been used for the retrieval of volcanic ash and sulfur dioxide (SO2) parameters based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) multispectral measurements. Different neural networks were built in order for each parameter to be retrieved, for experimenting with different topologies and evaluating their performances. The neural networks' capabilities to process a large amount of new data in a very fast way have been exploited to propose a novel applicative scheme aimed at providing a complete characterization of eruptive products. As a test case, the May 2010 Eyjafjallajókull eruption has been considered. A set of seven MODIS images have been used for the training and validation phases. In order to estimate the parameters associated to the volcanic eruption, such as ash mass, effective radius, aerosol optical depth and SO2 columnar abundance, the neural networks have been trained using the retrievals from well-known algorithms. These are based on simulated radiances at the top of the atmosphere and are estimated by radiative transfer models. Three neural network topologies with a different number of inputs have been compared: (a) three thermal infrared MODIS channels, (b) all multispectral MODIS channels and (c) the channels selected by a pruning procedure applied to all MODIS channels. Results show that the neural network approach is able to estimate the volcanic eruption parameters very well, showing a root mean square error (RMSE) below the target data standard deviation (SD). The network built considering all the MODIS channels gives a better performance in terms of specialization, mainly on images close in time to the training ones, while the networks with less inputs reveal a better generalization performance when applied to independent data sets. In order to increase the network's generalization capability and to select the most significant MODIS channels, a pruning algorithm has been implemented. The pruning outcomes revealed that channel sensitive to ash parameters correspond to the thermal infrared, visible and mid-infrared spectral ranges. The neural network approach has been proven to be effective when addressing the inversion problem for the estimation of volcanic ash and SO2 cloud parameters, providing fast and reliable retrievals, important requirements during volcanic crises.
Weak precipitation, warm winters and springs impact glaciers of south slopes of Mt. Everest (central Himalaya) in the last two decades (1994–2013)
Authors: Salerno F. , Guyennon N. , Thakuri S. , Viviano G. , Romano E. , Vuillermoz E. , Cristofanelli P. , Stocchi P. , Agrillo G. , Ma Y. , Tartari G.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Studies on recent climate trends from the Himalayan range are limited, and even completely absent at high elevation. This contribution specifically explores the southern slopes of Mt. Everest (central Himalaya), analyzing the minimum, maximum, and mean temperature and precipitation time series reconstructed from seven stations located between 2660 and 5600m a.s.l. over the last twenty years (1994–2013). We complete this analysis with data from all the existing ground weather stations located on both sides of the mountain range (Koshi Basin) over the same period. Overall we observe that the main and more significant increase in temperature is concentrated outside of the monsoon period. At higher elevations minimum temperature (0.072 ± 0.011 °C a−1, p < 0.001) increased far more than maximum temperature (0.009 ± 0.012 °C a−1, p > 0.1), while mean temperature increased by 0.044 ± 0.008 °C a−1, p < 0.05. Moreover, we note a substantial precipitation weakening (9.3 ± 1.8mm a−1, p < 0.01 during the monsoon season). The annual rate of decrease at higher elevation is similar to the one at lower altitudes on the southern side of the Koshi Basin, but here the drier conditions of this remote environment make the fractional loss much more consistent (47% during the monsoon period). This study contributes to change the perspective on which climatic driver (temperature vs. precipitation) led mainly the glacier responses in the last twenty years. The main implications are the following: (1) the negative mass balances of glaciers observed in this region can be more ascribed to less accumulation due to weaker precipitation than to an increase of melting processes. (2) The melting processes have only been favored during winter and spring months and close to the glaciers terminus. (3) A decreasing of the probability of snowfall has significantly interested only the glaciers ablation zones (10%, p < 0.05), but the magnitude of this phenomenon is decidedly lower than the observed decrease of precipitation. (4) The lesser accumulation could be the cause behind the observed lower glacier flow velocity and the current stagnation condition of tongues, which in turn could have trigged melting processes under the debris glacier coverage, leading to the formation of numerous supraglacial and proglacial lakes that have characterized the region in the last decades. Without demonstrating the causes that could have led to the climate change pattern observed at high elevation, we conclude by listing the recent literature on hypotheses that accord with our observations.
Stressors: A Challenge for the Faculty Members of the Higher Educational Institutions
Authors: Sharma Ekta
Published: December 2014

There is a lot of research in the area of stress. The studies consider that the stressors vary according to the environment. With the changing environment, the higher education institutions also need to develop their competitive advantage and hence make it challenging for the stakeholders, especially the faculty members to contribute towards the competitive advantage. This leads to stress amongst the faculty members. The current paper is an exploratory research to investigate the role stressors of the faculty members of various universities from different countries. The research is based on Organizational Role Stress Instrument of Udai Pareek (2002).
Peacemaking circles
Authors: Dhondt Davy , Aertsen Ivo
Published: December 2014

Peacemaking circles: research into possible implementation in Europe

In this short paper, a summarising report is presented on a two years action-research project (2011-2013) co-funded by the European Union on how to conceive and implement peacemaking circles in a European legal and cultural environment. In a first part of the paper, the background and reasons for implementing peacemaking circles are explained, and attention is given to their added value as compared to the models of victim-offender mediation and conferencing. After a short presentation of the action-research set-up in three countries (Belgium, Germany and Hungary), a selective list of critical issues is discussed as they have been experienced during the project: the selection of files and the preparatory phase of a peacemaking circle, the running of the circle meeting and the meaning of some of its operational principles (the role of the circle keeper, the function of rituals, the talking piece, the decision making process, …). Also the involvement of the community at its different levels - from the community of care to the macro-community - is discussed, as well as how the direct conflict parties experience the presence of these communities. A general conclusion is that a model of peacemaking circles can be implemented in a European context effectively, but developing a methodology on how to involve members of the wider community remains a challenge.
A construção opressora da pobreza no Brasil e suas consequências no psiquismo
Authors: Moura James Ferreira , Ximenes Verônica Morais , Sarriera Jorge Castellá
Published: December 2014

A configuração social da realidade constitui o psiquismo humano. Temos, então, como objetivo analisar o processo histórico de construção da pobreza na cultura brasileira e suas consequências no psiquismo a partir uma revisão de literatura não sistemática. Assim, no Brasil, a pobreza porta um processo de construção social e ideológica estigmatizante do indivíduo pobre. Essa dinâmica inicia-se no período de colonização portuguesa e repercute em premissas neoliberais presentes na estrutura política brasileira em períodos mais contemporâneos. Percebemos, portanto, a elaboração de uma teia complexa em que as relações de poder e de opressão são inseridas na forma de reconhecimento e no psiquismo dessa população em situação de pobreza. É necessário, então, fortalecer as potencialidades das pessoas pobres e desvelar essas práticas de opressão como fazendo parte do processo de erradicação da pobreza no Brasil.
À la charnière de l’image et du langage
Authors: Calin Rodolphe
Published: December 2014

Comment rendre compte de l’articulation entre l’image et le langage, plus précisément, de la double dimension, langagière et figurative, que présente le langage dans les figures de rhétorique ? L’article essaie de montrer que, pour répondre à cette question, Ricoeur n’aura pas seulement eu besoin, dans la sixième étude de La métaphore vive, de développer une sémantique de l’image consistant à penser l’image comme une dimension du procès de la prédication métaphorique, mais également, comme en témoigne son article « Image et langage dans la psychanalyse », une sémiotique de l’image, une sémiotique non linguistique permettant de faire droit à la dimension « pictoriale » qu’acquiert le langage en devenant figuré. Et dans la mesure où la sémantique et la sémiotique de l’image mettent en jeu deux modèles distincts, l’un prédicatif, l’autre substitutif, qui tour à tour permettent de décrire le schématisme de l’imagination, ce sont ici deux approches de l’imagination créatrice qui sont requises pour rendre compte du langage figuré.
La conexión entre la forma y la funcion en las construcciones hendidas españolas como expresiones de foco (y tópico) contrastivo
Authors: Vázquez-Larruscaín Miguel
Published: December 2014

En este trabajo proponemos un análisis componencial de la relación forma-función dentro de las oraciones hendidas en español, y en concreto, un mecanismo formal que determina la asignación de los valores de foco y de tópico contrastivo dentro de las mismas. Las oraciones hendidas son vistas como una amalgama de una oración copulativa y de una construcción estructuralmente simple con el mismo contenido proposicional que la hendida correspondiente.
Degrees of subjunctive vitality among monolingual speakers of Peninsular and Argentinian Spanish
Authors: Gallego Muriel , Alonso-Marks Emilia
Published: December 2014

This investigation seeks to expand the current understanding of mood use and vitality among monolingual native speakers of two varieties of Spanish. It focuses on establishing a cross-dialectal analysis of mood use in semi-spontaneous oral production. A total of 112 adult monolingual native speakers of Spanish participated in the study (N=56 from Rosario, Argentina and N=56 from Toledo, Spain). A controlled interview was administered to elicit the frequency and vitality of subjunctive use. Results indicate that the use of present subjunctive in complement clauses was found stable and vital among older speakers (51-73 years old) in both regions. However, while the youngest generation (18-30 years old) shows prevalence of non-subjunctive forms in Rosario, this age group favors the use of present subjunctive in Toledo. A similar pattern is observed with middle-aged participants. Results indicate an overall reduction of present subjunctive use among younger generations in Rosario, and vitality in every age group in Toledo.
Aftermath of Typhoon Frank: Perceiving Environmental Causes and Effects towards Environmental Leadership
Authors: Alimen Rolando A.
Published: December 2014

The study aims to perceive the environmental effects and causes of typhoon Frank leading to environmental leadership in Iloilo City shared by the seafarers and instructors of the maritime university specifically, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University-Molo (JBLFMU-Molo). It further elucidated the role of maritime instructors and determined the extent of the disaster preparedness of the Iloilo City government with regards to natural calamities like typhoons. This study employed quantitative-qualitative method of collecting data. The residents of Iloilo Province who were slightly or badly hit by the Typhoon Frank were also utilized to generate data on the aftermath of the typhoon. Government officials and other disaster involved personnel were also utilized as respondents who were interviewed in terms of disaster preparedness of the City. The data of this study were gathered through the use of descriptive-quantitative and open-ended questionnaire. The quantitative data were supported by qualitative answers of the key persons to enlighten the individuals concerned regarding causes and effects of Typhoon Frank. Results revealed the views of the seafarers regarding climate change particularly on the aftermath of Typhoon Frank.   Keywords - climatology, typhoon, quantitative-qualitative method, environmental effects, Iloilo City, Philippines
Changing Urban Landscape and Its Implications in Environmental Management: The Case of Calamba City, Philippines
Authors: BAGARINAO RICARDO T.
Published: December 2014

Urban landscape is a dynamic system that is altered by disturbances. The changesin landscape patterns between 2003 and 2010 of an urban area in the Philippineswere analyzed by using landscape metrics related to size and shape. A transition tablewas created to determine the transformation of land class type within the period ofanalysis. Eight land class types were identified by using the land use-land cover classificationscheme used by NAMRIA (i.e. closed forest, open forest, annual cropland,perennial cropland, built-up area, wooded grassland, grassland, and shrubland). Annualcropland dominated the landscape in 2003 while built-up area dominated in2010. There is a significant reduction in the computed class area for annual croplandbetween 2003 and 2010 due to its conversion to built-up area, grassland, and forestsin 2010. Computed landscape metrics indicate shape complexity for all land classtypes, and relatively less fragmented landscape. The increasing computed class areafor built-up area between 2003 and 2010 highlights the need to implement an effectivemanagement strategy that can address flooding, solid waste disposal, and pollution.Unless this will be done, the rapid urbanization of the City will lead to a greaterenvironmental catastrophe in the future.Keywords: Landscape Ecology, landscape, urban, metrics, environmental management,Calamba City, Philippines
Food Sufficiency in the Terraces: The Case of Globally-Important Agricultural Heritage Systems In Ifugao, Central Cordillera, Philippines
Authors: GOMEZ, JR. ROMEO A.
Published: December 2014

The rice terrace clusters in Nagacadan, Kiangan and those in Bocos, Banaue,Ifugao aside from recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites are nowregarded as relevant landscapes belonging to the so-called Globally-ImportantAgricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). These landscapes are characterizedby being sustainable showcase of one of humanity’s greatest human-natureinterrelationships, whose ecological flows have maintained these highlandagroecosystems for over two millennia and continuing to do so. Althoughdiffering in soil quality characteristics as a result of gradual introductions ofinorganic inputs into the production system, this rice terraced ecosystem remainspredominantly organic in terms of production. The focal dimension assessed in this paper is the food supply contributions of commonly cultivated native rice varieties to food sufficiency at the community level as well as the basic Ifugaohousehold level. These native rice varieties are, of course, raised in a primarilyorganic farming setting. It is revealed, however, that the average household inthese two study sites has their native rice supply lasting for about six months orless, both at 2001 and 2008 levels.Keywords: Ecology and environmental science, globally-important agricultural heritagesystems (GIAHS), food sufficiency, organic agriculture, descriptive survey,Philippines
The Forest Types in Aborlan Guba System, Palawan Island, Philippines
Authors: SOPSOP LITA B. , BUOT, JR. INOCENCIO E.
Published: December 2014

A floral survey was conducted in Aborlan Guba System, Aborlan, Palawanfollowing the quadrat technique of vegetation analysis by Mueller-Dombois &Ellenberg (1974) and Pacardo et al. (2000) to determine the forest zonationtherein and the environmental variables that influenced the vegetation pattern.Sixty-six quadrats, each for trees (10m x 10m) and saplings (2m x 2m) andseedlings and herbaceous vegetations (1m x 1m), were established throughout thestudy area. Four vegetation associations were distinguished from cluster analysis.Results of multivariate regression analysis reveal that elevation, air temperature,moisture content, water holding capacity, pH and potassium level of the soil, andhuman disturbance significantly influenced the spatial distribution of tree species.Human impact was inversely proportional to species richness (r2= 0.968). Sincethe area is encroached by the locals, the whole area must be categorized as a CoreZone for its immediate protection. Declaring it as a Protected Area under theNIPAS law ensures the long-term protection of the system.Keywords: Ecology, Forest, vegetation association, environmental factors, Palawan,Philippines
Implementation Evaluation of a Housing First Program in a Small Canadian City
Authors: Ecker John , Aubry Tim , Cherner Rebecca , Jetté Jonathan
Published: December 2014

This paper describes the implementation of Housing First in a small Canadian city. Given that the majority of Housing First research has been conducted in large American cities, providing a Canadian context in a small city contributes significant insights for similarly sized areas. The main objectives were to determine the adaptations made to the Housing First model and the contextual realities that affected implementation. Data were collected from two sources: (a) a fidelity assessment by an external team of experts; and (b) key informant interviews and focus groups with program staff and consumers. Results demonstrate that Housing First can be successfully implemented in a small city but with certain constraints and adaptations, notably more limited consumer choice of housing, challenges related to consumer access to transportation, and adaptations to program staffing. Implications for practice are discussed.
Standardized Isolation and Culture of Murine Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells
Authors: Cheluvappa Rajkumar
Published: December 2014

Isolation of murine liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) is an exacting and finicky procedure. After exhaustive standardization, we were able to devise an easily reproducible protocol which produced consistent results. Moreover, we scripted a protocol which clarifies even the smallest of steps, following which isolation of LSECs is made significantly easier. Using the standardized LSEC isolation protocol herein, we demonstrated that the bacterial toxin pyocyanin (from Pseudomonas aeruginosa) induced a significant dose‐dependent reduction in LSEC porosity, this being preventable by the enzyme catalase, but not by the enzyme superoxide dismutase. © 2014 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Structural variation in soft segment of waterborne polyurethane acrylate nanoemulsions
Authors: Sultan Misbah , Islam Atif , Gull Nafisa , Bhatti Haq Nawaz , Safa Yusra
Published: December 2014

High solid content waterborne polyurethane acrylate (WPUA) nanoemulsions are prepared as textile finishes. Two structurally different soft segments, that is, polyether and polyester are used with isophorone diisocyanate, 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, and butyl acrylate. Structural variations are investigated in features of nanoemulsions and their coatings. Physical properties of nanoemulsions, such as average particle size, stability, solid content, and viscosity, are investigated. Nanoemulsions with high solid content, that is, 40–47% are produced without any internal emulsifier. Average nanoparticle size, that is, <100 nm is confirmed by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy proved synthesis of proposed WPUA products. Synergistic effect of polyurethane and acrylate is observed in chemical and water resistance of WPUA. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis indicate stable uniformly cross‐linked network of WPUA. Application of nanoemulsions on 100% cotton fabric shows a significant improvement in tear strength, which is more pronounced for polyester‐based WPUA. Scanning electron microscope images of treated fabric samples show good adhesion of nanoemulsions on cotton surface. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41706.
Evidence of Early Metalworking in Arctic Canada
Authors: Sutherland Patricia D. , Thompson Peter H. , Hunt Patricia A.
Published: December 2014

This paper examines new evidence related to an early (pre‐Columbian) European presence in Arctic Canada. Artifacts from archaeological sites that had been assumed to relate to pre‐Inuit indigenous occupations of the region in the centuries around A.D. 1000 have recently been recognized as having been manufactured using European technologies. We report here on the SEM‐EDS analysis of a small stone vessel recovered from a site on Baffin Island. The interior of the vessel contains abundant traces of copper–tin alloy (bronze) as well as glass spherules similar to those associated with high‐temperature processes. These results indicate that it had been used as a crucible. This artifact may represent the earliest evidence of high‐temperature nonferrous metalworking in the New World north of Mesoamerica.
A New Model for Coastal Resource Productivity and Sea‐Level Change: The Role of Physical Sedimentary Processes in Assessing the Archaeological Potential of Submerged Landscapes from the Northwest Australian Continental Shelf
Authors: Ward Ingrid , Larcombe Piers , Veth Peter
Published: December 2014

Existing models of coastal occupation, in one form or another, embrace the assumption that changes in mean sea level were the prime driver for shifts in coastal resource productivity of consequence to coastal foragers. Focusing on the North West Shelf of Australia, this paper considers the role of physical sedimentary processes in understanding both past coastal resource productivity and the archaeology of drowned coastal landscapes. From a review of up‐to‐date literature on sea‐level related coastal formation process related to the North West Shelf, we describe the complex interplay of sea‐level change and sedimentary processes in determining (i) coastal resource availability, and (ii) archaeological site preservation potential through time. We argue that human behavioral models that have been linked solely to changes in sea level change from ca. 45 ka onward along the Australia continental shelf have inadequately accounted for local sedimentary regimes. It is not past sea‐level per se, which is of relevance to coastal productivity and human behavioral ecology models but changes in tidal regimes, coastal configurations and sedimentation. We conclude that our understanding of maritime adaptations for Sahul (Greater Australia) remain incomplete without investigating former coastlines and archaeological information that now lies submerged offshore.
Making the Best of a Bad Situation: Career Counseling Young Adults in the Aftermath of the Great Recession
Authors: Greenleaf Arie T.
Published: December 2014

Because of the changes in the economy hastened by the Great Recession, recent college graduates face unprecedented challenges finding employment in the current labor market. In this new economic era, Krumboltz's (2009) happenstance learning theory provides college career counselors with a practical framework for helping students learn how to engage in proactive career behaviors, evaluate opportunities as they arise, and initiate actions to benefit from them. A 6‐component framework is provided to guide college career counselors working with this population.
Pharmacokinetics of the dual melatonin receptor agonist tasimelteon in subjects with hepatic or renal impairment
Authors: Torres Rosarelis , Kramer William G. , Baroldi Paolo
Published: December 2014

Tasimelteon is a circadian regulator that resets the master clock in the suprachiasmatic nuclei of the hypothalamus by binding to both melatonin MT1 and MT2 receptors making it a dual melatonin receptor agonist. Tasimelteon has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Non‐24‐Hour Sleep‐Wake Disorder (Non‐24). Two prospective, single‐center, open‐label studies evaluated the pharmacokinetics of tasimelteon and its main metabolites after a single 20 mg dose administered to subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment or severe renal impairment, including subjects on dialysis compared to healthy controls. In subjects with mild or moderate hepatic impairment, exposure to tasimelteon after a single 20 mg dose, as measured by area under the plasma concentration‐time curve to infinity, was increased by approximately 2‐fold. There was no apparent relationship between tasimelteon clearance and renal function. No safety concerns were apparent in either study. Based on these results, the changes in the pharmacokinetics of tasimelteon due to mild or moderate hepatic or severe renal impairment are not considered clinically relevant, and no dose adjustment is necessary in these patients.
Ten Years and Counting: Moving Leucine‐Rich RepeatKinase 2 Inhibitors to the Clinic
Authors: West Andrew B.
Published: December 2014

The burden that Parkinson's disease (PD) exacts on the population continues to increase year after year. Though refinement of symptomatic treatments continues at a reasonable pace, no accepted therapies are available to slow or prevent disease progression. The leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene was identified in PD genetic studies and offers new hope for novel therapeutic approaches. The evidence linking LRRK2 kinase activity to PD susceptibility is presented, as well as seminal discoveries relevant to the prosecution of LRRK2 kinase inhibition. Finally, suggestions are made for predictive preclinical modeling and successful first‐in‐human trials. © 2014 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Regulating the Coordination State of a Heme Protein by a Designed Distal Hydrogen‐Bonding Network
Authors: Du Jun-Fang , Li Wei , Li Lianzhi , Wen Ge-Bo , Lin Ying-Wu , Tan Xiangshi
Published: December 2014

Heme coordination state determines the functional diversity of heme proteins. Using myoglobin as a model protein, we designed a distal hydrogen‐bonding network by introducing both distal glutamic acid (Glu29) and histidine (His43) residues and regulated the heme into a bis‐His coordination state with native ligands His64 and His93. This resembles the heme site in natural bis‐His coordinated heme proteins such as cytoglobin and neuroglobin. A single mutation of L29E or F43H was found to form a distinct hydrogen‐bonding network involving distal water molecules, instead of the bis‐His heme coordination, which highlights the importance of the combination of multiple hydrogen‐bonding interactions to regulate the heme coordination state. Kinetic studies further revealed that direct coordination of distal His64 to the heme iron negatively regulates fluoride binding and hydrogen peroxide activation by competing with the exogenous ligands. The new approach developed in this study can be generally applicable for fine‐tuning the structure and function of heme proteins.
Spacer length controlled highly thermo reversible polyurethane–urea based on polystyrene: synthesis and crystallization studies
Authors: Kayalvizhi M. , Vakees E. , Suresh J. , Nagarajan S. , Arun A.
Published: December 2014

Poly(urethane–urea) (PUU) is prepared using dihydroxy functionalized polystyrene having Mw 2000 g/mol, 1,6 hexamethylene diisocyanate and three different diamines (1,2‐ethylenediamine, 1,4‐butanediamine and 1,6‐hexamethylene diamine) by melt polymerization method. The synthesized copolymer is characterized by viscosity measurements, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, wide angle 2D‐X‐ray scattering (WAXS) and differential scanning colorimetry (DSC). The inherent viscosity of the polymers is found to be in the range of 0.4–0.5 dl/g, suggesting that the polymers are of high molecular weight. FT‐IR results conclude that the urea groups form both monodendate and bidendate assemblies. Temperature‐dependent FT‐IR and WAXS data confirm that the crystallinity of the copolymer is highly reversible and depends on the spacer length. DSC data also confirm that the crystallization pattern depends on the spacer length. The swelling behavior in water and the solubility of the polymer in chloroform are depending on the type of chain extender used in the PUU synthesis. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of environmental factors on the density of three species of peracarid crustaceans in micro‐tidal sandy shores in Japan
Authors: Takada Yoshitake , Kajihara Naoto , Mochizuki Shota , Murakami Takuhiko
Published: December 2014

The swash zone of sandy shores is a transitional habitat between the sea and land where the physical environment is the primary factor influencing the distribution of shore macrofauna. We constructed cumulative logit models using Bayesian inference to predict the ranked abundance of three species of peracarid crustaceans (Haustorioides japonicus, Excirolana chiltoni, and Archaeomysis kokuboi) that dominate the sandy shores of the Niigata coastline, Sea of Japan. Additionally, we estimated the importance of 14 environmental factors at explaining the variation in abundance. The environmental factors were grouped into three categories: swash zone, landward, and offshore. Optimum models were selected among the null model, the basic model (swash zone factors only), and additional models with landward and/or offshore factors. The optimal model for each of the three species was obtained when landward and/or offshore factors were added to the basic model, suggesting the importance of these regional factors. Combinations of significant factors differed between the three peracarid species. Some differences can be explained by accounting for life history characteristics. The slope of the offshore seafloor was the only common significant factor for the three species. Therefore, a decrease in the size of the shallow area off the sandy shore was associated with a decrease in the density of the three species. Because the peracarid crustaceans play an important role in trophic links in sandy shore ecosystems, our study results predict that an increase of coastal erosion leading to change of near‐shore bathymetry will reduce the ecological function of the swash zone.
Relationships among plant genetics, phytochemistry and herbivory patterns in Quercus castanea across a fragmented landscape
Authors: Maldonado‐López Yurixhi , Cuevas‐Reyes Pablo , González‐Rodríguez Antonio , Pérez‐López Griselda , Acosta‐Gómez Carlos , Oyama Ken
Published: December 2014

Herbivorous insects respond to the chemical variation of their host plants which, in turn, usually has a genetic component. Therefore, it is expected that individual host plants with similar genotypes will have similar secondary chemistries and herbivore communities. However, natural or anthropogenic environmental variation can also influence secondary chemistry and herbivore abundance and composition. Here, we determined the relationships among plant genetics, phytochemistry, and herbivory levels by leaf chewers and miners in the red oak Quercus castanea, across a fragmented landscape. Ten oak individuals were sampled at each of four sites in the Cuitzeo basin, central Mexico. Two sites were small and fragmented forest patches and two were large and continuous patches. Individuals were genotyped with six nuclear microsatellites, and analyzed chemically to determine foliar concentrations of water, total nonstructural carbohydrates, and secondary compounds. Damage by leaf chewers was higher in the small fragments than in the large fragments. Mantel tests indicated significant correlations of the genetic distance among individuals with their chemical similitude, and also of chemical similitude with damage levels by leaf miners, but not with damage by folivores. There was no direct relationship between genetic distance and herbivory levels by any of the two insect guilds. Our results suggest that variation in concentration of secondary metabolites in Q. castanea has a genetic component and that plant chemistry acts as an intermediate link between plant genes and the community of associated herbivores. However, this effect was only apparent for herbivory by leaf miners, probably because these insects interact more intimately with the host, while free‐living leaf chewers may be more responsive to environmental variation.
Medically Managed Gout Precipitating Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Carr Logan , Brooke Sebastian , Ingraham John
Published: December 2014

Background

The most common compressive neuropathy affects the median nerve in the carpal tunnel; it is typically chronic and progressive. Acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS), on the other hand, is a less frequently encountered surgical emergency that usually occurs in the setting of trauma, such as a displaced fracture of the distal radius or carpal dislocation. To our knowledge, there are only two cases of acute carpal tunnel secondary to gout reported in the literature, with both being outside of the USA and the last case being over 20 years ago. We reviewed the literature describing acute carpal tunnel syndrome (ACTS) caused by gout and present a recent case of atraumatic ACTS caused, in part, by a tophaceous gouty mass.

Methods

Review of the literature consisted of a PubMed search of all articles in the English language using the following keywords: “Acute Carpal Tunnel Syndrome” and “Tophaceous Gout” and “Gout.”

Results

We present the youngest reported case of atraumatic ACTS caused by tophaceous gout and the only reported case with a documented history of gout being actively medically managed with a uric acid lowering agent. This was successfully treated with an emergent extended carpal tunnel release, a complete flexor synovectomy, and excision of a gouty mass adhered to the carpal tunnel floor.

Conclusions

Atraumatic ACTS secondary to gout is rare and has never been reported in a patient already being managed with uric acid lowering agents. Such a presentation requires rapid surgical exploration with release of the carpal tunnel, debridement of all gouty tissue, and increasingly aggressive adjuvant medical therapy.
Delayed Manipulation after Collagenase Clostridium Histolyticum Injection for Dupuytren Contracture
Authors: Kaplan F. Thomas D. , Badalamente Marie A. , Hurst Lawrence C. , Merrell Gregory A. , Pahk Raymond
Published: December 2014

Background

Collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injection for Dupuytren contracture was approved in the USA in 2010. Current FDA guidelines stipulate that finger manipulation occurs the day following injection. To investigate the safety and efficacy of delaying manipulation to 2 or 4 days following CCH injection, we conducted a prospective, randomized trial at two sites.

Methods

Patients with Dupuytren contracture involving the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint ≥20° caused by a palpable cord participated. All patients received one dose of CCH (0.58 mg/0.25 ml) and were followed for 90 days. The primary end point was the percent of patients maintaining clinical success (reduction of contracture to 0°–5°) at 90 days post-injection. Adverse events and change in Michigan Hand Questionnaire (MHQ) score were recorded as secondary end points.

Results

Thirty-seven patients enrolled; 13 were manipulated on day 1, 11 on day 2, and 13 on day 4. At 30 days after injection, the percentage of patients obtaining reduction of contracture to <0°–5° extension was 92, 82, and 85 % in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, with no significant difference. At 90 days follow-up, the percentage of patients maintaining 0°–5° extension was 91, 82, and 83 % in groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively, with no significant difference. Adverse events were comparable to rates in prior studies. There were no serious adverse events. There was no statistical difference in MHQ scores between groups at any time point.

Conclusions

Delaying manipulation to day 2 or 4 following CCH injection for MCP joint contractures does not increase adverse events or result in loss of efficacy. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II.
Demographics: The Vulnerable Heel of the European Achilles
Authors: Tragaki Alexandra
Published: December 2014

Europe is currently under pressure from both the economy and demography. Six years after the onset of the global financial crisis, there are still no signs of a strong recovery. Moreover, demographic shifts have affected the size and structure of the European population, which is the fastest ageing in the world. These trends are inexorable and will be very hard to break unless major changes take place in the mentality of both policymakers and society at large. This article explains how the mixture of these adverse economic and demographic prospects puts the whole continent at high risk and will undermine its economic and political influence in the years to come.