bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Cost Evaluation of Peritoneal Dialysis and Hemodialysis in the Treatment of End-Stage Renal Disease in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: de Abreu Mirhelen Mendes , Walker David R. , Sesso Ricardo C. , Ferraz Marcos B.
Published: December 2012

Objective

Conventional hemodialysis (HD) predominates over peritoneal dialysis (PD) around the world. Prospective and comparative studies comparing the costs of these modalities are scarce. In the present prospective assessment, we describe the resources used and total patient costs for both HD and PD.

Methodology

We assessed 249 patients on HD and 228 on PD. All patients were 18 years of age or older and on stable dialysis. The information was collected at three points over 1 year, using standard questionnaires. The sources for costs were the Brazilian public and private health care systems. Societal perspective was considered.

Statistical Analysis

Core trends and dispersions were measured. Regression models assessed the impact of modality on the average total cost per patient per year.

Results

Of the 249 HD patients and 228 PD dialysis patients, 189 (74%) and 160 (70%) respectively completed follow-up. The mean age for women was 55.8 years; for men, it was 59.8 years ( p = 0.001). The average total cost per patient–year was US$28 570 for HD and US$27158 for PD. By category, the costs consisted of direct medical–hospital costs (82.3% for HD, 86.5% for PD), direct nonmedical costs (5.3% for HD, 3.7% for PD), and indirect costs (12.4% for HD, 9.8% for PD). Overall costs were less for PD patients than for their HD counterparts ( p = 0.025).

Conclusions

Maintenance dialysis represented the most important source of costs for both modalities; loss of productivity incurred significant costs. Future studies should contemplate the social consequences arising from each modality.
Prevalence of 25(OH) Vitamin D Insufficiency and Deficiency in Pediatric Patients on Chronic Dialysis
Authors: Cho Hee Yeon , Hyun Hye Sun , Kang Hee Gyung , Ha Il Soo , Cheong Hae Il
Published: December 2012

Background

25(OH) Vitamin D [25(OH)D] is the major circulating form of vitamin D and the parameter used to reflect vitamin D status. Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are likely to have low levels of 25(OH)D, and recent observations have linked suboptimal vitamin D status with adverse cardiovascular outcomes, inflammation, insulin resistance, and the rate of progression of renal insufficiency. Little is known about the magnitude of vitamin D deficiency in pediatric patients with stage 5 CKD on chronic dialysis.

Objectives

The aim of the present cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence of abnormal vitamin D status in children on chronic dialysis.

Methods

Serum 25(OH)D, 1,25(OH)2 vitamin D [1,25(OH)2D], calcium, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were evaluated in 59 pediatric patients on chronic dialysis. Weekly renal Kt/V and creatinine clearance (CCr) were evaluated as parameters reflecting residual renal function. In these patients, serum 25(OH)D concentrations less than 10 ng/mL were considered deficiency and concentrations of 10 – 30 ng/mL were considered insufficiency.

Results

Of the 59 pediatric patients (mean age: 14.4 ± 5.1 years), 51 (86.4%) were on peritoneal dialysis (PD), and 8 (13.6%) were on hemodialysis. Vitamin D deficiency was found in 32.2% of the patients ( n = 19), and vitamin D insufficiency, in 50.8% ( n = 30). Patients with serum 25(OH)D concentrations less than 30 ng/mL were older than those with normal 25(OH)D concentrations (15.4 ± 4.5 years vs 9.2 ± 5.1 years, p = 0.000). Patients with 25(OH) D concentrations less than 30 ng/mL had higher PTH levels than did those with normal 25(OH)D concentrations (349.5 ± 318.3 pg/mL vs 142.5 ± 116.9 pg/mL, p = 0.001). In the univariate analysis, there was no correlation between serum 25(OH)D and serum 1,25(OH)2D ( r = 0.242, p = 0.064), calcium ( r = 0.108, p = 0.415), phosphorus ( r = –0.050, p = 0.706), or body mass index ( r = –0.046, p = 0.729). In PD patients, serum 25(OH)D was positively correlated with weekly renal Kt/V ( r = 0.385, p = 0.005) and CCr ( r = 0.443, p = 0.001). In addition, serum 25(OH)D and serum albumin were positively correlated ( r = 0.297, p = 0.035) in the PD patients.

Conclusions

The present study found a high prevalence of 25(OH)D deficiency and insufficiency in children on chronic dialysis. Serum 25(OH)D was associated with residual renal function in children on PD. Further studies to evaluate the consequences of vitamin D deficiency and the impact of therapeutic interventions are needed in pediatric CKD patients.
Who Needs Direct-Acting Antivirals for HCV? Challenges Faced in Advancing HCV Therapy for HIV–HCV-Coinfected Individuals
Authors: Klein Marina B , Rollet Kathleen C , Hull Mark , Cooper Curtis , Walmsley Sharon , Conway Brian , Pick Neora ,   the Canadian Co-infection Cohort Study (CTN222) Investigators
Published: December 2012

Background

The recent availability of new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for HCV treatment, which significantly increase sustained virological response rates for genotype 1 HCV infection, has brought new optimism with respect to curative HCV treatment for HIV–HCV-coinfected patients. We describe the characteristics of coinfected patients who could be eligible for DAAs to determine potential challenges facing clinicians and patients hoping to take advantage of these new therapies.

Methods

We evaluated the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the genotype 1 HCV–HIV-infected participants in a Canadian prospective multicentre cohort study at their most recent visit to assess potential eligibility for combination HCV treatment with boceprevir or telaprevir.

Results

Of the 1,020 coinfected participants enrolled in the cohort, 707 (85%) had evidence of chronic HCV infection (HCV-RNA-positive), of whom 497 (70%) were infected with genotype 1; 375 (75%) were naive to HCV treatment and 122 (25%) had previously received therapy and failed. Only 143 (38%) of HCV treatment-naive and 39 (32%) of treatment-experienced participants had no absolute contraindications for treatment. Alcohol abuse, active depression and decompensated liver disease were the most frequent reasons for treatment ineligibility. The majority would require alterations in antiretroviral regimens to avoid important drug–drug interactions.

Conclusions

Although the need for curative HCV therapy in HIV–HCV coinfection is great, the actual number of patients who could be eligible for DAAs at the present time may be quite low. There remains an urgent need to develop safe, simple and interferon-sparing treatments for coinfected individuals.
Comment la contractualisation dans les administrations fiscales peut-elle limiter la corruption et la fraude ? Le cas des douanes camerounaises
Authors: Cantens Thomas , Raballand Gaël , Bilangna Samson , Djeuwo Marcellin
Published: December 2012

Résumé Cet article examine les effets de l’introduction de « contrats de performance » au sein des administrations fiscales, à partir d’une expérience lancée dans les douanes camerounaises en 2008. Cet exemple original de réforme transpose des éléments de la Nouvelle Gestion Publique dans le contexte particulier d’une administration qui fait de la lutte contre la corruption son premier objectif pour augmenter son efficacité. L’analyse s’appuie sur des données quantitatives pour étudier les changements de comportement individuel et leurs effets macroéconomiques sur l’efficacité de l’administration. Des données qualitatives ont également été recueillies de 2008 à 2011. Si leurs résultats mesurables sont positifs sur la collecte des recettes, la réduction des mauvaises pratiques et la célérité du traitement des dossiers, l’évaluation et la contractualisation soulèvent néanmoins des questionnements sur les rapports des fonctionnaires à leur institution et à la loi. Classification JEL : D73, H11, H20
Modernisation de l'administration fiscale dans les pays en développement : impact de la TVA
Authors: Bodin Jean-Paul
Published: December 2012

Résumé Depuis plus d’une vingtaine d’années, la TVA a permis de renforcer la mobilisation des ressources dans les pays en développement et de lancer des réformes importantes en matière d’administration fiscale. Les performances de cette taxe sont toutefois en deçà des potentialités dans beaucoup de pays. L’amélioration de ces performances et la modernisation du système fiscal passent par une accélération de la réforme de l’administration fiscale qui exige des investissements conséquents en matière de ressources humaines et d’informatisation. Elle implique également une plus grande efficacité dans l’organisation et l’utilisation de l’assistance technique qui est indispensable pour appuyer ces réformes. Classification JEL : H26, H29
Future Prospects for Pharmacogenetics in the Quest for Personalized Medicine
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: December 2012

Understanding pharmacogenetic differences in drug response and tolerability has been an important area of research in personalized medicine, but the clinical utility of pharmacogenetics testing has not been established. Identification of genetic polymorphisms due to single nucleotide polymorphisms is the most common approach, but this does not take into account the potential relevance of copy number variants, noncoding RNA gene regulation, gene-gene and gene-interactions, and epigenetic modifications, which increase the complexity of pharmacogenomics research.
Towards an Understanding of Requirements for Model Versioning Support
Authors: Wieland Konrad , Fitzpatrick Geraldine , Kappel Gerti , Seidl Martina , Wimmer Manuel
Published: December 2012

When software is developed in teams – the standard way software is developed today – versioning systems are the first choice for the management of collaboration. From a technical point of view, versioning systems have to face several challenges. Depending on the applied versioning paradigm, functionalities such as synchronous editing, branching, storing different versions, merging, etc. are required. Since much effort has been spent into realizing these tasks, measurable progress has been achieved over the last decades. Unfortunately, there is a lack of empirical studies to find out the actual requirements arising from practice. Therefore, the authors conducted an online survey and interviewed representative users of versioning systems from academia and industry. Special emphasis is placed on the versioning of software models, which are nowadays becoming more and more important as there is a trend to model-driven software engineering. The results of our empirical studies show that not all requirements of developers are satisfied by current versioning systems. Especially, more emphasis needs to be put on the management of collaborative development, e.g., the division of work and the management of conflicts.
Mitigate DoS and DDoS Attack in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Michalas Antonis , Komninos Nikos , Prasad Neeli R.
Published: December 2012

This paper proposes a technique to defeat Denial of Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks in Ad Hoc Networks. The technique is divided into two main parts and with game theory and cryptographic puzzles. Introduced first is a new client puzzle to prevent DoS attacks in such networks. The second part presents a multiplayer game that takes place between the nodes of an ad hoc network and based on fundamental principles of game theory. By combining computational problems with puzzles, improvement occurs in the efficiency and latency of the communicating nodes and resistance in DoS and DDoS attacks. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the approach for devices with limited resources and for environments like ad hoc networks where nodes must exchange information quickly.
Rho-Family GTPase Cdc42 Controls Migration of Langerhans Cells In Vivo
Authors: Luckashenak Nancy , Wähe Anna , Breit Katharina , Brakebusch Cord , Brocker Thomas
Published: December 2012

Epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) of the skin represent the prototype migratory dendritic cell (DC) subtype. In the skin, they take up Ag, migrate to the draining lymph nodes, and contribute to Ag transport and immunity. Different depletion models for LCs have revealed contrasting roles and contributions of this cell type. To target the migratory properties of DCs, we generated mice lacking the Rho-family GTPase Cdc42 specifically in DCs. In these animals, the initial seeding of the epidermis with LCs is functional, resulting in slightly reduced Langerhans cell numbers. However, Cdc42-deficient LCs fail to leave the skin in steady state as well as upon stimulation, as they do not enter the skin-draining afferent lymph vessels. Similarly, also other Cdc42-deficient migratory DC subsets fail to home properly to the corresponding draining lymph nodes. We used this novel mouse model, in which LCs are locked out, to demonstrate that these cells contribute substantially to priming of Ag-specific CD4 and CD8 T cell responses upon epicutaneous immunization, but could not detect a role in the induction of contact hypersensitivity to various doses of hapten.
In Vivo Blockade of the PD-1 Receptor Suppresses HIV-1 Viral Loads and Improves CD4+ T Cell Levels in Humanized Mice
Authors: Palmer Brent E. , Neff C. Preston , LeCureux Jonathan , Ehler Angelica , DSouza Michelle , Remling-Mulder Leila , Korman Alan J. , Fontenot Andrew P. , Akkina Ramesh
Published: December 2012

The programmed death-1 (PD-1) pathway limits the function of virus-specific T cells during chronic infection. We previously showed that blockade of the PD-1 pathway increases HIV-1–associated T cell function in vitro. However, the effect of PD-1 blockade on HIV-1 disease progression in vivo has not been examined. As in humans, HIV-1–infected humanized BALB/c-Rag2−/−γc−/− (Rag-hu) mice express elevated levels of PD-1 on T cells during chronic infection. To examine the effect of PD-1 blockade on disease progression, Rag-hu mice with chronic HIV-1 infection were treated with a blocking mAb directed against programmed cell death-1 ligand-1, the ligand for PD-1. Programmed cell death-1 ligand-1–treated Rag-hu mice exhibited a progressive decrease in the HIV-1 plasma viral load, with a 7-fold decrease by day 7, a 20-fold decrease by day 14, a 178-fold decrease by day 21, and a 269-fold decrease by day 28 postinitiation of treatment. By day 7, the percentage of CD4+ T cells was statistically higher in the treated compared with the untreated group, and this trend was sustained throughout the 28-d treatment period. Moreover, there was a strong inverse correlation between plasma viral load and the percentage of both CD4+ (r = −0.66; p < 0.0001) and CD8+ (r = −0.64; p < 0.0001) T cells in the treated mice but not the untreated mice. This study provides “proof of concept” that humanized mice can be used to examine the effects of immunotherapeutic interventions on HIV-1 infection. Furthermore, to our knowledge, these data demonstrate for the first time that blockade of the PD-1 pathway reduces HIV-1 viral loads.
A Phospholipase C-γ1–Independent, RasGRP1-ERK–Dependent Pathway Drives Lymphoproliferative Disease in Linker for Activation of T Cells–Y136F Mutant Mice
Authors: Kortum Robert L. , Rouquette-Jazdanian Alexandre K. , Miyaji Michihiko , Merrill Robert K. , Markegard Evan , Pinski John M. , Wesselink Amelia , Nath Nandan N. , Alexander Clayton P. , Li Wenmei , Kedei Noemi , Roose Jeroen P. , Blumberg Peter M. , Samelson Lawrence E. , Sommers Connie L.
Published: December 2012

Mice expressing a germline mutation in the phospholipase C-γ1–binding site of linker for activation of T cells (LAT) show progressive lymphoproliferation and ultimately die at 4–6 mo age. The hyperactivated T cells in these mice show defective TCR-induced calcium flux but enhanced Ras/ERK activation, which is critical for disease progression. Despite the loss of LAT-dependent phospholipase C–γ1 binding and activation, genetic analysis revealed RasGRP1, and not Sos1 or Sos2, to be the major Ras guanine exchange factor responsible for ERK activation and the lymphoproliferative phenotype in these mice. Analysis of isolated CD4+ T cells from LAT-Y136F mice showed altered proximal TCR-dependent kinase signaling, which activated a Zap70- and LAT-independent pathway. Moreover, LAT-Y136F T cells showed ERK activation that was dependent on Lck and/or Fyn, protein kinase C–θ, and RasGRP1. These data demonstrate a novel route to Ras activation in vivo in a pathological setting.
A Novel Domain Cassette Identifies Plasmodium falciparum PfEMP1 Proteins Binding ICAM-1 and Is a Target of Cross-Reactive, Adhesion-Inhibitory Antibodies
Authors: Bengtsson Anja , Joergensen Louise , Rask Thomas S. , Olsen Rebecca W. , Andersen Marianne A. , Turner Louise , Theander Thor G. , Hviid Lars , Higgins Matthew K. , Craig Alister , Brown Alan , Jensen Anja T. R.
Published: December 2012

Cerebral Plasmodium falciparum malaria is characterized by adhesion of infected erythrocytes (IEs) to the cerebral microvasculature. This has been linked to parasites expressing the structurally related group A subset of the P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) family of IE adhesion ligands and to IEs with affinity for ICAM-1. However, recent evidence has cast doubt on both these associations, tempering hopes of the feasibility of developing a vaccine based on ICAM-1–binding PfEMP1. In this study, we report the identification of a domain cassette (DC) present in group A var genes from six genetically distinct P. falciparum parasites. The three domains in the cassette, which we call DC4, had a high level of sequence identity and cluster together phylogenetically. Erythrocytes infected by these parasites and selected in vitro for expression of DC4 adhered specifically to ICAM-1. The ICAM-1–binding capacity of DC4 was mapped to the C-terminal third of its Duffy-binding–like β3 domain. DC4 was the target of broadly cross-reactive and adhesion-inhibitory IgG Abs, and levels of DC4-specific and adhesion-inhibitory IgG increased with age among P. falciparum–exposed children. Our study challenges earlier conclusions that group A PfEMP1 proteins are not central to ICAM-1–specific IE adhesion and support the feasibility of developing a vaccine preventing cerebral malaria by inhibiting cerebral IE sequestration.
Upper Cretaceous Nanaimo Group of Vancouver Island as a potential bedrock aquifer zone: summary of previous literature and concepts
Authors: Hamblin A P
Published: December 2012

A new inquiry into the groundwater potential of the Nanaimo Lowlands is being jointly undertaken by concerned municipal, provincial and federal agencies. Rapid population growth and expanding industrial development are, and will continue to, put pressure on the
limited groundwater resources. The bedrock component of the project focuses on the characterization of the aquifer potential of the Upper Cretaceous Nanaimo Group, as a likely target of importance. This unit is a thick succession of 11 intertonguing sandstone-dominated and shale-dominated
formations, of which only the lower 8 are present in the defined study area. As a preliminary step in the analysis, this report summarizes the most relevant information for these 8 units from the previously published geological literature, in order to focus attention on the zones and areas of most
likely groundwater potential. The sandstone- and conglomerate-dominated units of the Comox, Extension and Protection formations have significant aquifer potential due to their potential for porosity and permeability, fracturing, and extensive development at reasonable depths over wide areas (with
minor potential in the De Courcy Formation, present only near the surface in a small part of the study area). Conversely, the interbedded shale-dominated units of the Haslam, Pender, Cedar District and Northumberland formations are important because they may provide significant aquitard seal units,
overlying the potential aquifer zones over wide areas of the Nanaimo Lowlands. Further study of the thickness, geographic and stratigraphic distribution, fracturing, and internal stratigraphic complexities of these 8 units of the Nanaimo Group will provide a more scientific basis for evaluation of
the bedrock aquifer potential in the Nanaimo Lowlands region.
Refusal as a democratic catalyst for mathematics education development
Authors: Swanson Dalene , Appelbaum Peter
Published: December 2012

Discussions about the connections between mathematics and democracy amongst the general populace have not been explicitly well rehearsed. A critical relationship with democracy for mathematics education may involve directing and redirecting its purposes. But, we ask, what if the ‘choice’ to not participate in experiences of mathematics education, or in its (re)direction, were itself also a critical relationship with mathematics education? What if this refusal and disobedience to the evocative power of mathematics were a democratic action? We argue that consideration of mathematics education for democracy and development must take seriously specific acts of refusal that directly confront the construction of inequality common in most development contexts. Globalisation and development discourses, via citizenship and nationalism, construct relationships with learners and mathematics education in very specific ways that delimit possibilities for egalitarianism and democratic action. But, might such action not be recognised, not as refusal to participate per se, but as a refusal to participate in mathematics education’s colonising and/or globalising neo-liberal gaze? In arguing for the opening of a position of radical equality, we introduce Jacques Rancière to mathematics education theory, noting that for Rancière emancipation is the intentional disregard for ideological narratives such as the ones produced by mathematics education discourses. Thus, we provoke serious reconsideration of the assumptions behind most school improvement and professional development projects, as well as mathematics education policies and practices framed by globalising development discourses, and in the process we challenge our colleagues to consider ‘refusal’ not as deficit or failure, but as a critical position of radical equality in relation to mathematics education.
Die reis met kerkeenwording tussen die Verenigende Gereformeerde Kerk in Suider-Afrika en die Nederduitse Gereformeerde Kerk in Afrika
Authors: Plaatjies van Huffel Mary Anne , Van der Merwe Johan M.
Published: December 2012

The journey to church unification between the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa and the Dutch Reformed Church in Africa. The article gives a historical overview of judicial problems that the Dutch Reformed Church (DRMC) and the Dutch Reformed Church in Africa (DRCA) encountered in their journey to church unification. On 14 April 1994 the DRMC and the DRCA merged and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA) came into being. Firstly, attention is given to a historical overview of the unification process. Secondly, the resolutions of the General Synod of the DRCA (1991), the judicial problems that surfaced shortly after the unification between the DRMC and the DRCA, the objections against the unification process and the lawsuit that followed, will be attended to. The unification between the DRMC and the DRCA was tested in court and in 1998 the Supreme Court gave judgment in favor of the DRCA. The verdict indicated that all decisions with regards to church property were ultra vires and that the DRCA as a legal corporate entity remains. The article concludes with a few legal aspects that may be derived from the judgement. The verdict highlights the administration of justice according to established rules and principles, namely that a juristic person cannot be deprived of life, liberty or property without appropriate legal procedures and safeguards. The article proposes that Reformed churches in the South African context should seriously take cognisance of the judgement. This article attempts to identify the important criteria for and characteristics of administration of justice with regard to church unification.
High Prevalence of Hepatitis E in Humans and Pigs and Evidence of Genotype-3 Virus in Swine, Madagascar
Authors: Temmam Sarah , Besnard Lydia , Andriamandimby Soa Fy , Foray Coralie , Rasamoelina-Andriamanivo Harentsoaniaina , Héraud Jean-Michel , Cardinale Eric , Dellagi Koussay , Pavio Nicole , Pascalis Hervé , Porphyre Vincent
Published: December 2012

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes an orofecal disease transmitted through poor hygiene environments, contaminated food (mainly pork products), or by contacts with infected animals. Very little data are currently available regarding the disease in the Southwestern Indian Ocean Islands. We report the first sero- and viro-survey for HEV in human and swine in Madagascar. A seroprevalence rate of 14.1% (60 of 427) was measured in slaughterhouse workers. Seroprevalence to HEV in pigs was estimated to 71.2% (178 of 250), strongly suggesting the existence of a zoonotic cycle. Three out of 250 pig livers (1.2%) tested HEV RNA-positive by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Phylogenetic analyses based on 1-kb sequences of the ORF 2-3 identified these viruses as HEV genotype 3. Sequences clustered in a distinct Malagasy sub-clade, possibly representative of a new sub-genotype, for which the date of emergence was estimated around 1989. Further studies are needed to confirm other transmission routes of HEV to humans, especially through non-zoonotic cycles.
Medical registers in rheumatology: do we need a rheumatology register in Poland?
Authors: Raciborski Filip , Nyczaj Krzysztof , Głuszko Piotr , Samoliński Bolesław , Włodarczyk Andrzej
Published: December 2012

Nie istnieje jednoznaczna definicja terminu „rejestr medyczny”. Powszechnie pod tym pojęciem rozumie się wszelkiego rodzaju zbiory danych przechowujące informacje kliniczne gromadzone w związku z prowadzoną opieką nad pacjentem. Obecnie największe zainteresowanie budzą rejestry dotyczące danej jednostki chorobowej (disease registry) lub terapii czy leku (drug registry).

Rejestry medyczne w reumatologii stanowią kluczowe źródło danych zarówno o charakterze epidemiologicznym, jak i dotyczących bezpieczeństwa oraz efektywności terapii. Na świecie w ostatnich 20 latach nastąpił istotny wzrost liczby rejestrów. Obecnie, w związku z dopuszczaniem do obrotu nowych leków, najszybciej rozwijają się rejestry leczenia biologicznego. Tego typu rozwiązania powstały na przełomie XIX i XX wieku m.in. w Wielkiej Brytanii, Szwecji, Niemczech, Hiszpanii, Norwegii, Danii, Holandii oraz Szwajcarii. Pozostałe państwa europejskie albo są w toku tworzenia własnych rejestrów biologicznych, albo opierają się na innych źródłach danych.
Tuberculosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis treated with infliximab
Authors: Franiak Bartosz , Marek Magdalena , Multan Aleksandra
Published: December 2012

Rola czynnika martwicy nowotworów α (tumor necrosis factor α – TNF-α) w powstawaniu i stabilizacji ziarniny gruźliczej powoduje, iż terapia lekiem blokującym działanie tej cytokiny istotnie zwiększa ryzyko wystąpienia gruźlicy. W krajach rozwiniętych zachorowanie stanowi najczęściej wynik reaktywacji zakażenia latentnego. Z tego powodu istotna jest rzetelna diagnostyka zakażenia utajonego i zastosowanie chemioprofilaktyki przed rozpoczęciem terapii antagonistą TNF-α.

Opisano przypadek 60-letniej pacjentki chorującej na reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów leczonej infliksymabem, u której rozwinęły się objawy wysiękowego zapalenia opłucnej i osierdzia o etiologii gruźliczej (ryc. 1). Po rozpoczęciu terapii przeciwgruźliczej uzyskano poprawę kliniczną oraz ustąpienie zmian w badaniach obrazowych. Po rocznym leczeniu choroby reumatoidalnej leflunomidem, na kontrolnym RTG klatki piersiowej pojawiły się zmiany opisywane jako gruźlica naciekowa włóknisto-jamista (ryc. 2). Pomimo braku potwierdzenia bakteriologicznego gruźlicy, chora została ponownie zakwalifikowana do leczenia przeciwprątkowego.

W artykule przedstawiono wady i zalety próby tuberkulinowej oraz testów IGRA (interferon γ-release assay), podkreślono istotną przewagę tych drugich w diagnostyce zakażeń latentnych prątkiem gruźlicy. Zaproponowano diagnostykę różnicową, którą należy przeprowadzić przy współistnieniu przedstawionego obrazu klinicznego oraz zmian w badaniu radiologicznym klatki piersiowej.
Spatial distribution of solute leaching with snowmelt and irrigation: measurements and simulations
Authors: Schotanus D. , van der Ploeg M. J. , van der Zee S. E. A. T. M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Transport of a tracer and a degradable solute in a heterogeneous soil was measured in the field, and simulated with several transient and steady state infiltration rates. Leaching surfaces were used to investigate the solute leaching in space and time simultaneously. In the simulations, a random field for the scaling factor in the retention curve was used for the heterogeneous soil, which was based on the spatial distribution of drainage in an experiment with a multi-compartment sampler. As a criterion to compare the results from simulations and observations, the sorted and cumulative total drainage in a cell was used. The effect of the ratio of the infiltration rate over the degradation rate on leaching of degradable solutes was investigated. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of the leaching of degradable and non-degradable solutes was compared. The infiltration rate determines the amount of leaching of the degradable solute. This can be partly explained by a decreasing travel time with an increasing infiltration rate. The spatial distribution of the leaching also depends on the infiltration rate. When the infiltration rate is high compared to the degradation rate, the leaching of the degradable solute is similar as for the tracer. The fraction of the soil that contributes to solute leaching increases with an increasing infiltration rate. This fraction is similar for a tracer and a degradable solute. With increasing depth, the leaching becomes more homogeneous, as a result of dispersion. The spatial distribution of the solute leaching is different under different transient infiltration rates, therefore also the amount of leaching is different. With independent stream tube approaches, this effect would be ignored.
Dynamics of a gravity car race with application to the Pinewood Derby
Authors: Mann B. P. , Gibbs M. M. , Sah S. M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. This paper investigates the underlying physics of a gravity car race. This work seeks to provide a sound theoretical basis to elucidate the design considerations that maximize performance while simultaneously dispelling false assertions that may arise from incomplete analyses. The governing equations are derived and solved analytically to predict race times; trend analyses are then performed along with a sensitivity analysis to ascertain the most important factors that influence performance. The inferences from a conservative energy balance are then compared with the predictions from the full set of differential equations, which include the dissipative terms associated with air resistance and friction.
The role of cornice fall avalanche sedimentation in the valley Longyeardalen, Central Svalbard
Authors: Eckerstorfer M. , Christiansen H. H. , Rubensdotter L. , Vogel S.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. In arctic and alpine high relief landscapes snow avalanches are traditionally ranked behind rockfall in terms of their significance for mass wasting processes of rock slopes. Cornice fall avalanches are at present the most dominant snow avalanche type at two slope systems, called Nybyen and Larsbreen, in the valley Longyeardalen in Central Svalbard. Both slope systems are situated on NW-facing lee slopes underneath large summit plateau, where cornices form annually, and high frequency and magnitude cornice fall avalanching is observed by daily automatic time-lapse photography. In addition, rock debris sedimentation by these cornice fall avalanches was measured directly in either permanent sediment traps or by snow inventories. The results from a maximum of 7 yr of measurements in a total of 13 catchments show maximum avalanche sedimentation rates ranging from 8.2 to 38.7 kg m−2 at Nybyen and from 0.8 to 55.4 kg m−2 at Larsbreen. Correspondingly, the avalanche fan-surfaces accreted annually in a~maximum range from 3.7 to 13 mm yr−1 at Nybyen and from 0.3 to 21.4 mm yr−1 at Larsbreen. This comparably efficient rock slope mass wasting is due to collapsing cornices producing cornice fall avalanche with high rock debris content throughout the entire winter. The rock debris of different origin stems from the plateau crests, the adjacent free rock face and the transport pathway, accumulating distinct avalanche fans at both slope systems and contributing to the development of a rock glacier at the Larsbreen slope system.
Diseño e implementación de medios de laboratorio para contribuir al proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje en el área de Instrumentación Industrial
Authors: Moncada María Virginia , Moreira B M. , Jovel O M. , Jiménez C R.
Published: December 2012

Este artículo presenta el diseño e implementación de una planta piloto para propósitos académicos. La planta se diseñó siguiendo la metodología expuesta por FESTO Didactic e implementa el proceso de llenado, calentado, presurización, descompresión y descarga de un tanque con agua, de forma automática. Cuenta con un sistema de seguridad (sistema centinela) que lleva a cabo funciones de control sobre las variables críticas del proceso y un sistema SCADA implementado bajo la plataforma LabVIEWTM. La planta piloto facilita la adquisición de conocimientos en: programación gráfica para aplicaciones industriales, instrumentación industrial y modelaje de procesos. Familiariza a los estudiantes con las normas, metodologías y terminologías utilizadas en el ambiente industrial. Finalmente, se instaló en un local de laboratorio y sus métricas de desempeño fueron probadas satisfactoriamente.   Palabras claves: aprendizaje, instrumentación, programación grafica
Sobre dimensiones de Modelos de Gel'fand
Authors: Araujo José Orlando
Published: December 2012

En este artículo se presenta una expresión para la dimensión de un modelo de Gel'fand del grupo simétrico generalizado    o grupo de reflexiones unitarias de tipo (formula)   . De la misma se concluye que esta dimensión coincide con el número de elementos que se representan como productos de reflexiones cuyas raíces son ortogonales dos a dos.
Revitalización cultural en el Caribe nicaragüense
Authors: Rivas Alvaro
Published: December 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/wani.v65i0.869 Wani No.65 2012 pp.1
Germination of Primed Seed under NaCl Stress in Wheat
Authors: Fuller Michael P. , Hamza Jalal H. , Rihan Hail Z. , Al-Issawi Mohammad
Published: December 2012

Soil salinity affects a large and increasing amount of arable land worldwide, and genetic and agronomic solutions to increasing salt tolerance are urgently needed. Experiments were conducted to improve wheat seed performance under salinity stress conditions after priming. An experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design of four replications for germination indices in wheat (Triticum aestivumL. cv. Caxton). Normal and primed seed with PEG6000at  MPa and five concentrations of NaCl (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mM) were tested. Results indicate that priming seed significantly () increased germination percentage at first count and final count, coefficient of velocity of germination, germination rate index, and mean germination time, while increasing of NaCl concentration significantly reduced it. Priming seed improved germination attributes at all NaCl concentration levels. The priming appeared to be able to overcome the effect of salt stress at 50 to 100 mM and reduce the effect of NaCl at higher concentrations up to 200 mM. The primed seed gave both faster germination and led to higher germination when under salt stress. We conclude that using priming techniques can effectively enhance the germination seed under saline condition.
Characterization of Chemical Composition and Microstructure of Natural Iron Ore from Muko Deposits
Authors: Muwanguzi Abraham J. B. , Karasev Andrey V. , Byaruhanga Joseph K. , Jönsson Pär G.
Published: December 2012

The study aimed at investigating the chemical composition and microstructure of raw iron ore from the deposits in Muko area (south-western Uganda). The quality of this iron ore was evaluated to establish its suitability to serve as a raw material for iron production. Samples were taken from the six hills of Muko ore deposits and tests carried out to establish their composition and properties. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy were employed in the investigation and chemical analysis performed to determine the compounds constituting the ore. The quality of this ore was compared to generalized world market standards and ores from other nations. It was found that Muko ore is a rich hematite grade with Fe content above 65%. It has little gangue (<6% SiO2 and 3-4% Al2O3) and low contents of the deleterious elements (P~0.02% and S<0.006%), which correspond to acceptable levels for commercial iron ores.
Prevalence of Metallo-β-Lactamases ProducingAcinetobacter baumanniiin a Moroccan Hospital
Authors: Kabbaj Hakima , Seffar Myriam , Belefquih Bouchra , Akka Dalal , Handor Najat , Amor Morad , Alaoui Ahmed Essaid
Published: December 2012

Objective. To determine the prevalence of metallo beta-lactamases (MBL) among carbapenem resistant strains ofAcinetobacter baumanniiin our hospital.Methodology. During a period of 12 months (January–December 2010), 47 isolates ofAcinetobacter baumanniiwere collected from different clinical specimens of in-patients. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined and interpreted using the disk diffusion method according to the Antibiogram Committee of the French Society for Microbiology guidelines. Imipenem nonsusceptible isolates were further screened for production of MBL.Results. AllAcinetobacter baumannii’ isolates were resistant to ticarcillin, ticarcilline/clavulanate, piperacillin, piperacillin/tazobactam, gentamicin, tobramycin, and ciprofloxacin, except an isolate that was sensitive to ceftazidime and cefepime. In addition to that, amikacin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole were, respectively, sensitive by 59.5% and 53%. Among 57,4% (27/47) imipenem non-susceptible isolates ofAcinetobacter baumannii, 74% (20/27) were found to be MBL producers.Conclusion. Although the rate of imipenem non-susceptible isolates ofAcinetobacter baumanniseems to remain stable in 2005 (57%) and 2010 (57,5%), the prevalence of MBL producer strain is increasing (38% in 2005 versus 75% in 2010). The findings strongly suggest that there is a need to track the detection of MBL producers; moreover, a judicious use of carbapenems is necessary to prevent further spread of these organisms.
Molecular Signaling and Cellular Pathways for Virus Entry
Authors: Chi Pei-I , Liu Hung-Jen
Published: December 2012

The cell signaling plays a pivotal role in regulating cellular processes and is often manipulated by viruses as they rely on the functions offered by cells for their propagation. The first stage of their host life is to pass the genetic materials into the cell. Although some viruses can directly penetrate into cytosol, in fact, most virus entry into their host cells is through endocytosis. This machinery initiates with cell type specific cellular signaling pathways, and the signaling compounds can be proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. The activation can be triggered in a very short time after virus binds on target cells, such as receptors. The signaling pathways involved in regulation of viral entry are wide diversity that often cross-talk between different endocytosis results. Furthermore, some viruses have the ability to use the multiple internalization pathways which leads to the regulation being even more complex. In this paper, we discuss some recent advances in our understanding of cellular pathways for virus entry, molecular signaling during virus entry, formation of endocytic vesicles, and the traffic.
Developing a Weibull Model Extension to Estimate Cancer Latency
Authors: Nadler Diana L. , Zurbenko Igor G.
Published: December 2012

The mathematical model discussed in this paper presents a technique to estimate the length of the cancer’s silent growth period. The methodology described utilizes information obtained from observed cancer incidence to reconstruct what is cautiously believed to be the period of time from malignant cancer initiation to diagnosis. Analyses show a decreasing hazard for cancer indicating that the longer a patient survives, the more likely they are to reach the upper limit of their natural lifespan. Based on previous research, the Weibull distribution has been used to describe the mechanisms of cancer development. In contrast to the memoryless exponential distribution which assumes a constant failure rate, the shape of the Weibull distribution is dependent on past events and preserves a memory of prior survival. This provides a simple but powerful way to characterize how the unobserved experience of cancer relates to the observed as a function to estimate the time between onset and diagnosis. The results indicate a window of opportunity for early intervention when cancer is most treatable. The method presented provides useful information to identify cancers with high mortality and prolonged periods of undetected growth to distinguish types of dire public health concern.
Existence of Solutions for Stochastic Differential Equations under G-Brownian Motion with Discontinuous Coefficients
Authors: Faizullah Faiz
Published: December 2012

The existence theory for the vector valued stochastic differential equations under G-Brownian motion (G-SDEs) of the type Xt = X0+ ∫t
o(v;Xv)dv+ ∫t
0 g(v;Xv)d(B)v+ ∫t
0 h(v;Xv)dBv; t ∊ [0;T]; with first two discontinuous coefficients is established. It is shown that the G-SDEs have more than one solution if the coefficient g or the coefficients f and g simultaneously, are discontinuous functions. The upper and lower solutions method is used and examples are given to explain the theory and its importance.
Wild food plants and wild edible fungi of Heihe valley (Qinling Mountains, Shaanxi, central China): herbophilia and indifference to fruits and mushrooms
Authors: Kang Yongxiang , Łuczaj Łukasz , Ye Sebastian , Zhang Shijiao , Kang Jin
Published: December 2012

The aim of the study was to investigate knowledge and use of wild food plants and fungi in Han (i.e. Chinese) nationality villages in central China, including famine plants used in the respondents' childhood. A valley adjacent to the extremely species-rich temperate forest vegetation of the Taibai Nature Reserve was chosen. Eighty-two people from 5 villages took part in the study. Altogether, 159 wild food plant species and 13 fungi folk taxa were mentioned by informants. The mean number of freelisted wild foods was very high (24.8; median – 21.5). An average respondent listed many species of wild vegetables (mean – 17, me- dian – 14.5), a few wild fruits (mean – 5.9 and median – 6) and very few fungi (mean – 1.9, median – 1), which they had eaten.

Over 50% of respondents mentioned gathering the young shoots or leaves of Celastrus orbiculatus, Staphylea bumalda and S. holocapra, Caryopteris divaricata, Helwingia japonica, Pteridium aquilinum, Pimpinella sp., Amaranthus spp., Matteucia struthiopteris, Allium spp., Cardamine macrophylla and Chenopodium album. Only one species of fruits (Schisandra sphenanthera) and none of the mushrooms were mentioned by over half of the respondents. Although very diverse, it can be noted that the use of wild vegetables has decreased compared to the second half of the 20th century, as informants listed several plants which they had stopped using (e.g. Abelia engleriana) due to the availability of cultivated vegetables and other foodstuffs. On the other hand, the collection of the most well-known wild vegetables is maintained by selling them to tourists visiting agritourist farms, and restaurants.
A Review of Barriers and Enablers to Diagnosis and Management of Persons with Dementia in Primary Care
Authors: Aminzadeh Faranak , Molnar Frank J. , Dalziel William B. , Ayotte Debbie
Published: December 2012

BackgroundWith the rise in the prevalence of dementia disorders and the growing critical impact of dementia on health-care resources, the provision of dementia care has increasingly come under scrutiny, with primary care physicians (PCP) being at the centre of such attention.PurposeTo critically examine barriers and enablers to timely diagnosis and optimal management of community living persons with dementia (PWD) in primary care.MethodsAn interpretive scoping review was used to synthesize and analyze an extensive body of heterogeneous Western literature published over the past decade.ResultsThe current primary care systems in many Western countries, including Canada, face many challenges in providing responsive, comprehensive, safe, and cost-effective dementia care. This paper has identified a multitude of highly inter-related obstacles to optimal primary dementia care, including challenges related to: a) the complex biomedical, psychosocial, and ethical nature of the condition; b) the gaps in knowledge, skills, attitudes, and resources of PWD/caregivers and their primary care providers; and c) the broader systemic and structural barriers negatively affecting the context of dementia care.ConclusionsFurther progress will require a coordinated campaign and significantly increased levels of commitment and effort, which should be ideally orchestrated by national dementia strategies focusing on the barriers and enablers identified in this paper.
The Spatial Characteristics of Homes as Private Domains that May Promote Youth Offending
Authors: Lutya Thozama Mandisa
Published: December 2012

This a review analysis concerned with describing the spatial characteristics of homes as private domains that may promote youth offending. The goal of this paper is to explicate such characteristics and relate them to the development of a young criminal personality. The main point is that the manner in which homes are structured and family processes are conducted could give children many opportunities to learn criminal behaviour without interruption. The geographical themes of space, time and culture are used to explicate the characteristics of the home as a private space. Research results from reviewed articles have given this paper three structured sections. The first session briefly defines and describes the home as a private space. Section 2 critically discusses the hidden dimensions of the home as a private space. The family is identified as a site of authentic experience, ownership and secrecy, commitment and an obligation to shared values, as well as voluntary compassion. The home is shown to be a territory of respect and recognition, but it is also argued that, under particular circumstances, these characteristics of the home could influence or allow children to learn criminal behaviour. The last section of the paper focuses on factors in the home that influence children to replicate negative parental behaviour, although it is acknowledged that most parents do not consciously wish their children to learn non-conforming behaviour in their homes, and that not all children exposed to concealed negative home characteristics will commit a crime. It is suggested that crime prevention efforts should start with the interrogation and mediation of home and family characteristics that could influence children to learn criminal behaviour.
Antiochos Hierax
Authors: Heller André
Published: December 2012

Antiochos Hierax, second son of king Antiochos Ii Theos and of his wife Laodike, was born ca. 256bce.
Antiochos I of Kommagene
Authors: Crowther Charles V.
Published: December 2012

Antiochos I (ca. 110–35
bce
) was the ruler of the prosperous kingdom of Kommagene in southeastern Asia Minor during a critical period in its history. Precise dates for his birth, accession, and death are not attested, although he was king by 69 when Lucullus received his submission (Cass. Dio 36.2.5) and no longer alive in 31 when his son Mithradates II is listed among subject kings supporting Marcus Antonius at Actium (Plut.
Ant
. 61.1).