bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-Economic Convergence as a Necessary Precondition and Determinant of Societal Growth
Authors: Hudec Martin
Published: April 2017

The issue of socio-economic convergence is nowadays more than ever an extremely dominant topic, especially in the case of less developed countries and countries suffering stagnation, mainly due to the integration processes occurring worldwide and the determinant to achieve long-term growth in an effort to advance towards the socioeconomic sustainable level of developed economies. A key assumption towards convergence is that economies with initially lower socio-economic levels will at some point reach (in an idea case) or get very close the level of developed economies, gradually reducing the gap between the capital stock and the level of product size between countries, while the lower economic level the country has, the higher the growth rate it will go through the transition period. This suggests that the economies with lower levels of performance will grow on average at a higher rate than economies that are more efficient. It is therefore expected that the growth performance of a country will with its improvement also at some point slow down and quite realistically there can also occur a situation where the levels of development and growth of individual states economies will rather show delay. This is basically an opposite action to the concept of convergence, which is known as the divergence. The aim of our research paper is to analyze closely the concept of convergence, while pointing it is specifically characteristics and overall focusing on the significance of the issue of convergence.
Reproductive Potentials of Diploid and Polyploidy Representatives of the Genus Сobitis (Cypriniformes, Cobitidae)
Authors: Mezhzherin S. V. , Salyy T. V. , Tsyba A. A.
Published: April 2017

Comparison of reproductive parameters in several Cobitis forms with different ploidy shows that the maximum fertility is found in diploid Cobitis, the triploids are less fertile and the tetraploids even less fecund. The latter reach maximum values of size and weight indicators but minimum number of eggs, the smallest size of the ovaries but the biggest eggs. Nevertheless, the combined reproductive potential of polyploid females is higher than of diploid spiny loaches with equal ratios of males to females in populations. The obvious reasons for the successful expansion of polyploid individuals of the spiny loaches are both their higher fertility at the population level and the changes in environmental conditions associated with the regulation of all major rivers in Ukraine in the 1960-1970s.
Hibernation of Parti-Coloured Bat, Vespertilio murinus (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in Belarus
Authors: Shpak A. V.
Published: April 2017

Parti-coloured bat (Vespertilio murinus Linnaeus, 1758) was considered in Belarus as a migrant species until recently. This point of view was based on the absence of winter records as well as the registrations in Austria and Romania of two V. murinus′ specimens, banded in Belarus. The data, obtained over the past few years, allow to state, that the whole territory of Belarus belongs to the winter range of this species. Hibernating animals were observed exclusively in the anthropogenic roosts.
Preparation of magnesium oxide and magnesium silicate replicas retaining the hierarchical structure of pine wood
Authors: Klaithong Somruedee , Van Opdenbosch Daniel , Zollfrank Cordt , Plank Johann
Published: April 2017

Replicas retaining the structural characteristics of softwood (Pinus sylvestris) were obtained by infiltrating pretreated templates with a methanolic methoxymagnesium methyl carbonate (MeOMgOCO2Me) solution as a precursor which then hydrolyzed into MgCO3 nanoparticles. Subsequent calcination at temperatures ranging from 500 to 1450°C yielded annealed MgO replicas on levels of hierarchy from the macroscopic to the submicron scale. The mechanical stability of the replicas could be improved through calcination at 1450°C. However, this treatment leads to considerable shrinkage (Δax=56%). Even more stable MgO replicas were obtained by infiltrating the pine template first with MeOMgOCO2Me, followed by a second infiltration step with an ethanolic tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) solution and subsequent calcination at 1350°C. The resulting replicas constitute an MgO framework overgrown with Mg2SiO4 (forsterite) and exhibit compression strengths of 31±8 MPa, as well as hierarchical structures combined with an anisotropic porosity.
A detailed experimental study of a DNA computer with two endonucleases
Authors: Sakowski Sebastian , Krasiński Tadeusz , Sarnik Joanna , Blasiak Janusz , Waldmajer Jacek , Poplawski Tomasz
Published: April 2017

Great advances in biotechnology have allowed the construction of a computer from DNA. One of the proposed solutions is a biomolecular finite automaton, a simple two-state DNA computer without memory, which was presented by Ehud Shapiro’s group at the Weizmann Institute of Science. The main problem with this computer, in which biomolecules carry out logical operations, is its complexity – increasing the number of states of biomolecular automata. In this study, we constructed (in laboratory conditions) a six-state DNA computer that uses two endonucleases (e.g. AcuI and BbvI) and a ligase. We have presented a detailed experimental verification of its feasibility. We described the effect of the number of states, the length of input data, and the nondeterminism on the computing process. We also tested different automata (with three, four, and six states) running on various accepted input words of different lengths such as ab, aab, aaab, ababa, and of an unaccepted word ba. Moreover, this article presents the reaction optimization and the methods of eliminating certain biochemical problems occurring in the implementation of a biomolecular DNA automaton based on two endonucleases.
Early Social Isolation Stress and Perinatal NMDA Receptor Antagonist Treatment Induce Changes in the Structure and Neurochemistry of Inhibitory Neurons of the Adult Amygdala and Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Castillo-Gómez Esther , Pérez-Rando Marta , Bellés María , Gilabert-Juan Javier , Llorens José Vicente , Carceller Héctor , Bueno-Fernández Clara , García-Mompó Clara , Ripoll-Martínez Beatriz , Curto Yasmina , Sebastiá-Ortega Noelia , Moltó María Dolores , Sanjuan Julio , Nacher Juan
Published: April 2017

The exposure to aversive experiences during early life influences brain development and leads to altered behavior. Moreover, the combination of these experiences with subtle alterations in neurodevelopment may contribute to the emergence of psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. Recent hypotheses suggest that imbalances between excitatory and inhibitory (E/I) neurotransmission, especially in the prefrontal cortex and the amygdala, may underlie their etiopathology. In order to understand better the neurobiological bases of these alterations, we studied the impact of altered neurodevelopment and chronic early-life stress on these two brain regions. Transgenic mice displaying fluorescent excitatory and inhibitory neurons, received a single injection of MK801 (NMDAR antagonist) or vehicle solution at postnatal day 7 and/or were socially isolated from the age of weaning until adulthood (3 months old). We found that anxiety-related behavior, brain volume, neuronal structure, and the expression of molecules related to plasticity and E/I neurotransmission in adult mice were importantly affected by early-life stress. Interestingly, many of these effects were potentiated when the stress paradigm was applied to mice perinatally injected with MK801 ("double-hit" model). These results clearly show the impact of early-life stress on the adult brain, especially on the structure and plasticity of inhibitory networks, and highlight the double-hit model as a valuable tool to study the contribution of early-life stress in the emergence of neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia.
Inhibition of Drp1 Ameliorates Synaptic Depression, Aβ Deposition, and Cognitive Impairment in an Alzheimer's Disease Model
Authors: Baek Seung Hyun , Park So Jung , Jeong Jae In , Kim Sung Hyun , Han Jihoon , Kyung Jae Won , Baik Sang-Ha , Choi Yuri , Choi Bo Youn , Park Jin Su , Bahn Gahee , Shin Ji Hyun , Jo Doo Sin , Lee Joo-Yong , Jang Choon-Gon , Arumugam Thiruma V. , Kim Jongpil , Han Jeung-Whan , Koh Jae-Young , Cho Dong-Hyung , Jo Dong-Gyu
Published: April 2017

Excessive mitochondrial fission is a prominent early event and contributes to mitochondrial dysfunction, synaptic failure, and neuronal cell death in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, it remains to be determined whether inhibition of excessive mitochondrial fission is beneficial in mammal models of AD. To determine whether dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1), a key regulator of mitochondrial fragmentation, can be a disease-modifying therapeutic target for AD, we examined the effects of Drp1 inhibitor on mitochondrial and synaptic dysfunctions induced by oligomeric amyloid-β (Aβ) in neurons and neuropathology and cognitive functions in Aβ precursor protein/presenilin 1 double-transgenic AD mice. Inhibition of Drp1 alleviates mitochondrial fragmentation, loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species production, ATP reduction, and synaptic depression in Aβ-treated neurons. Furthermore, Drp1 inhibition significantly improves learning and memory and prevents mitochondrial fragmentation, lipid peroxidation, BACE1 expression, and Aβ deposition in the brain in the AD model. These results provide evidence that Drp1 plays an important role in Aβ-mediated and AD-related neuropathology and in cognitive decline in an AD animal model. Therefore, inhibiting excessive Drp1-mediated mitochondrial fission may be an efficient therapeutic avenue for AD.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMitochondrial fission relies on the evolutionary conserved dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1). Drp1 activity and mitochondria fragmentation are significantly elevated in the brains of sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) cases. In the present study, we first demonstrated that the inhibition of Drp1 restored amyloid-β (Aβ)-mediated mitochondrial dysfunctions and synaptic depression in neurons and significantly reduced lipid peroxidation, BACE1 expression, and Aβ deposition in the brain of AD mice. As a result, memory deficits in AD mice were rescued by Drp1 inhibition. These results suggest that neuropathology and combined cognitive decline can be attributed to hyperactivation of Drp1 in the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, inhibitors of excessive mitochondrial fission, such as Drp1 inhibitors, may be a new strategy for AD.
Selective Modulation of the Pupil Light Reflex by Microstimulation of Prefrontal Cortex
Authors: Ebitz R. Becket , Moore Tirin
Published: April 2017

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) is thought to flexibly regulate sensorimotor responses, perhaps through modulating activity in other circuits. However, the scope of that control remains unknown: it remains unclear whether the PFC can modulate basic reflexes. One canonical example of a central reflex is the pupil light reflex (PLR): the automatic constriction of the pupil in response to luminance increments. Unlike pupil size, which depends on the interaction of multiple physiological and neuromodulatory influences, the PLR reflects the action of a simple brainstem circuit. However, emerging behavioral evidence suggests that the PLR may be modulated by cognitive processes. Although the neural basis of these modulations remains unknown, one possible source is the PFC, particularly the frontal eye field (FEF), an area of the PFC implicated in the control of attention. We show that microstimulation of the rhesus macaque FEF alters the magnitude of the PLR in a spatially specific manner. FEF microstimulation enhanced the PLR to probes presented within the stimulated visual field, but suppressed the PLR to probes at nonoverlapping locations. The spatial specificity of this effect parallels the effect of FEF stimulation on attention and suggests that FEF is capable of modulating visuomotor transformations performed at a lower level than was previously known. These results provide evidence of the selective regulation of a basic brainstem reflex by the PFC.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThe pupil light reflex (PLR) is our brain's first and most fundamental mechanism for light adaptation. Although it is often described in textbooks as being an immutable reflex, converging evidence suggests that the magnitude of the PLR is modulated by cognitive factors. The neural bases of these modulations are unknown. Here, we report that microstimulation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) modulates the gain of the PLR, changing how a simple reflex circuit responds to physically identical stimuli. These results suggest that control structures such as the PFC can add complexity and flexibility to even a basic brainstem circuit.
The Spacing Effect for Structural Synaptic Plasticity Provides Specificity and Precision in Plastic Changes
Authors: San Martin Alvaro , Rela Lorena , Gelb Bruce , Pagani Mario Rafael
Published: April 2017

In contrast to trials of training without intervals (massed training), training trials spaced over time (spaced training) induce a more persistent memory identified as long-term memory (LTM). This phenomenon, known as the spacing effect for memory, is poorly understood. LTM is supported by structural synaptic plasticity; however, how synapses integrate spaced stimuli remains elusive. Here, we analyzed events of structural synaptic plasticity at the single-synapse level after distinct patterns of stimulation in motoneurons ofDrosophila. We found that the spacing effect is a phenomenon detected at synaptic level, which determines the specificity and the precision in structural synaptic plasticity. Whereas a single pulse of stimulation (massed) induced structural synaptic plasticity, the same amount of stimulation divided in three spaced stimuli completely prevented it. This inhibitory effect was determined by the length of the interstimulus intervals. The inhibitory effect of the spacing was lost by suppressing the activity of Ras or mitogen-activated protein kinase, whereas the overexpression of Ras-WT enhanced it. Moreover, dividing the same total time of stimulation into five or more stimuli produced a higher precision in the number of events of plasticity. Ras mutations associated with intellectual disability abolished the spacing effect and led neurons to decode distinct stimulation patterns as massed stimulation. This evidence suggests that the spacing effect for memory may result from the effect of the spacing in synaptic plasticity, which appears to be a property not limited to neurons involved in learning and memory. We propose a model of spacing-dependent structural synaptic plasticity.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTLong-term memory (LTM) induced by repeated trials spaced over time is known as the spacing effect, a common property in the animal kingdom. Altered mechanisms in the spacing effect have been found in animal models of disorders with intellectual disability, such as Noonan syndrome. Although LTM is sustained by structural synaptic plasticity, how synapses integrate spaced stimuli and decode them into specific plastic changes remains elusive. Here, we show that the spacing effect is a phenomenon detected at the synaptic level, which determines the properties of the response in structural plasticity, including precision of such response. Whereas suppressing or enhancing Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling changed how synapses decode a pattern of stimuli, a disease-related Ras allele abolished the spacing effect for plastic changes.
Feature-Selective Attention Adaptively Shifts Noise Correlations in Primary Auditory Cortex
Authors: Downer Joshua D. , Rapone Brittany , Verhein Jessica , O'Connor Kevin N. , Sutter Mitchell L.
Published: April 2017

Sensory environments often contain an overwhelming amount of information, with both relevant and irrelevant information competing for neural resources. Feature attention mediates this competition by selecting the sensory features needed to form a coherent percept. How attention affects the activity of populations of neurons to support this process is poorly understood because population coding is typically studied through simulations in which one sensory feature is encoded without competition. Therefore, to study the effects of feature attention on population-based neural coding, investigations must be extended to include stimuli with both relevant and irrelevant features. We measured noise correlations (rnoise) within small neural populations in primary auditory cortex while rhesus macaques performed a novel feature-selective attention task. We found that the effect of feature-selective attention onrnoisedepended not only on the population tuning to the attended feature, but also on the tuning to the distractor feature. To attempt to explain how these observed effects might support enhanced perceptual performance, we propose an extension of a simple and influential model in which shifts inrnoisecan simultaneously enhance the representation of the attended feature while suppressing the distractor. These findings present a novel mechanism by which attention modulates neural populations to support sensory processing in cluttered environments.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTAlthough feature-selective attention constitutes one of the building blocks of listening in natural environments, its neural bases remain obscure. To address this, we developed a novel auditory feature-selective attention task and measured noise correlations (rnoise) in rhesus macaque A1 during task performance. Unlike previous studies showing that the effect of attention onrnoisedepends on population tuning to the attended feature, we show that the effect of attention depends on the tuning to the distractor feature as well. We suggest that these effects represent an efficient process by which sensory cortex simultaneously enhances relevant information and suppresses irrelevant information.
Dissociation of Choice Formation and Choice-Correlated Activity in Macaque Visual Cortex
Authors: Goris Robbe L.T. , Ziemba Corey M. , Stine Gabriel M. , Simoncelli Eero P. , Movshon J. Anthony
Published: April 2017

Responses of individual task-relevant sensory neurons can predict monkeys' trial-by-trial choices in perceptual decision-making tasks. Choice-correlated activity has been interpreted as evidence that the responses of these neurons are causally linked to perceptual judgments. To further test this hypothesis, we studied responses of orientation-selective neurons in V1 and V2 while two macaque monkeys performed a fine orientation discrimination task. Although both animals exhibited a high level of neuronal and behavioral sensitivity, only one exhibited choice-correlated activity. Surprisingly, this correlation was negative: when a neuron fired more vigorously, the animal was less likely to choose the orientation preferred by that neuron. Moreover, choice-correlated activity emerged late in the trial, earlier in V2 than in V1, and was correlated with anticipatory signals. Together, these results suggest that choice-correlated activity in task-relevant sensory neurons can reflect postdecision modulatory signals.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWhen observers perform a difficult sensory discrimination, repeated presentations of the same stimulus can elicit different perceptual judgments. This behavioral variability often correlates with variability in the activity of sensory neurons driven by the stimulus. Traditionally, this correlation has been interpreted as suggesting a causal link between the activity of sensory neurons and perceptual judgments. More recently, it has been argued that the correlation instead may originate in recurrent input from other brain areas involved in the interpretation of sensory signals. Here, we call both hypotheses into question. We show that choice-related activity in sensory neurons can be highly variable across observers and can reflect modulatory processes that are dissociated from perceptual decision-making.
Age-Related Effects and Sex Differences in Gray Matter Density, Volume, Mass, and Cortical Thickness from Childhood to Young Adulthood
Authors: Gennatas Efstathios D. , Avants Brian B. , Wolf Daniel H. , Satterthwaite Theodore D. , Ruparel Kosha , Ciric Rastko , Hakonarson Hakon , Gur Raquel E. , Gur Ruben C.
Published: April 2017

Developmental structural neuroimaging studies in humans have long described decreases in gray matter volume (GMV) and cortical thickness (CT) during adolescence. Gray matter density (GMD), a measure often assumed to be highly related to volume, has not been systematically investigated in development. We used T1 imaging data collected on the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort to study age-related effects and sex differences in four regional gray matter measures in 1189 youths ranging in age from 8 to 23 years. Custom T1 segmentation and a novel high-resolution gray matter parcellation were used to extract GMD, GMV, gray matter mass (GMM; defined as GMD × GMV), and CT from 1625 brain regions. Nonlinear models revealed that each modality exhibits unique age-related effects and sex differences. While GMV and CT generally decrease with age, GMD increases and shows the strongest age-related effects, while GMM shows a slight decline overall. Females have lower GMV but higher GMD than males throughout the brain. Our findings suggest that GMD is a prime phenotype for the assessment of brain development and likely cognition and that periadolescent gray matter loss may be less pronounced than previously thought. This work highlights the need for combined quantitative histological MRI studies.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThis study demonstrates that different MRI-derived gray matter measures show distinct age and sex effects and should not be considered equivalent but complementary. It is shown for the first time that gray matter density increases from childhood to young adulthood, in contrast with gray matter volume and cortical thickness, and that females, who are known to have lower gray matter volume than males, have higher density throughout the brain. A custom preprocessing pipeline and a novel high-resolution parcellation were created to analyze brain scans of 1189 youths collected as part of the Philadelphia Neurodevelopmental Cohort. A clear understanding of normal structural brain development is essential for the examination of brain–behavior relationships, the study of brain disease, and, ultimately, clinical applications of neuroimaging.
Visually Evoked 3–5 Hz Membrane Potential Oscillations Reduce the Responsiveness of Visual Cortex Neurons in Awake Behaving Mice
Authors: Einstein Michael C. , Polack Pierre-Olivier , Tran Duy T. , Golshani Peyman
Published: April 2017

Low-frequency membrane potential (Vm) oscillations were once thought to only occur in sleeping and anesthetized states. Recently, low-frequencyVmoscillations have been described in inactive awake animals, but it is unclear whether they shape sensory processing in neurons and whether they occur during active awake behavioral states. To answer these questions, we performed two-photon guided whole-cellVmrecordings from primary visual cortex layer 2/3 excitatory and inhibitory neurons in awake mice during passive visual stimulation and performance of visual and auditory discrimination tasks. We recorded stereotyped 3–5 HzVmoscillations where theVmbaseline hyperpolarized as theVmunderwent high amplitude rhythmic fluctuations lasting 1–2 s in duration. When 3–5 HzVmoscillations coincided with visual cues, excitatory neuron responses to preferred cues were significantly reduced. Despite this disruption to sensory processing, visual cues were critical for evoking 3–5 HzVmoscillations when animals performed discrimination tasks and passively viewed drifting grating stimuli. Using pupillometry and animal locomotive speed as indicators of arousal, we found that 3–5 Hz oscillations were not restricted to unaroused states and that they occurred equally in aroused and unaroused states. Therefore, low-frequencyVmoscillations play a role in shaping sensory processing in visual cortical neurons, even during active wakefulness and decision making.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTA neuron's membrane potential (Vm) strongly shapes how information is processed in sensory cortices of awake animals. Yet, very little is known about how low-frequencyVmoscillations influence sensory processing and whether they occur in aroused awake animals. By performing two-photon guided whole-cell recordings from layer 2/3 excitatory and inhibitory neurons in the visual cortex of awake behaving animals, we found visually evoked stereotyped 3–5 HzVmoscillations that disrupt excitatory responsiveness to visual stimuli. Moreover, these oscillations occurred when animals were in high and low arousal states as measured by animal speed and pupillometry. These findings show, for the first time, that low-frequencyVmoscillations can significantly modulate sensory signal processing, even in awake active animals.
Effect of oral contraceptives and/or metformin on GLP-1 secretion and reactive hypoglycaemia in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Glintborg Dorte , Mumm Hanne , Holst Jens Juul , Andersen Marianne
Published: April 2017

Context

Insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may increase the risk of reactive hypoglycaemia (RH) and decrease glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion. The possible effects of treatment with oral contraceptives (OCP) and/or metformin on GLP-1 secretion and risk of RH in PCOS is undetermined.

Setting

Outpatient clinic.

Patients and interventions

Randomized, controlled clinical trial. Ninety women with PCOS were randomized to 12-month treatment with OCP (150 mg desogestrel + 30 mg ethinylestradiol), metformin (2 g/day) or metformin + OCP. Five-hour oral glucose tolerance tests (5-h OGTT) measuring fasting and area under the curve (AUC) for GLP-1, glucose, insulin and C-peptide were performed before and after the intervention period. Sixty-five women completed the study and 34 weight-matched healthy women were included as controls.

Main outcome measures

Changes in GLP-1, glucose, insulin and C-peptide during 5-h OGTT.

Results

Fasting GLP-1 levels increased during metformin + OCP vs OCP treatment, whereas AUC GLP-1 levels were unchanged during medical treatment. The prevalence of reactive hypoglycemia increased from 9/65 to 14/65 after intervention (P < 0.01) and was more common after treatment with metformin + OCP (increase from 3/23 to 6/23, P = 0.01). Reactive hypoglycaemia was associated with higher insulin and C-peptide levels during 5-h OGTT, but was unassociated with BMI and AUC GLP-1. GLP-1 levels were comparable in PCOS vs controls. AUC GLP-1 levels were significantly lower in obese vs lean patients and were inversely associated with BMI.

Conclusions

AUC GLP-1 levels were unchanged during treatment. Increased risk of hypoglycemia during metformin + OCP could be associated with increased insulin secretion.
Altered sleep patterns in patients with non-functional GHRH receptor
Authors: Oliveira Francielle T , Salvatori Roberto , Marcondes José , Macena Larissa B , Oliveira-Santos Alecia A , Faro Augusto C N , Campos Viviane C , Oliveira Carla R P , Costa Ursula M M , Aguiar-Oliveira Manuel H
Published: April 2017

Objectives

GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) exerts hypnotic actions increasing the non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. Conversely, GH stimulates the REM sleep. GH deficiency (GHD) often leads to sleep problems, daytime fatigue and reduced quality of life (QoL). GHD may be due to lack of hypothalamic GHRH or destruction of somatotroph cells. We have described a cohort with isolated GHD (IGHD) due to GHRH resistance caused by a homozygousnullmutation (c.57 + 1G > A) in the GHRH receptor gene. They have normal QoL and no obvious complaints of chronic tiredness. The aim of this study was to determine the sleep quality in these subjects.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out in 21 adult IGHD subjects, and 21 age- and gender-matched controls. Objective sleep assessment included polygraphic records of the awake, stages NREM [N1 (drowsiness), N2 and N3 (already sleeping)] and REM (R). Subjective evaluation included the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Insomnia Severity Index and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale.

Results

IGHD subjects showed a reduction in sleep efficiency (P = 0.007), total sleep time (P = 0.028), duration of N2 and R in minutes (P = 0.026 andP = 0.046 respectively), but had increased duration and percentage of N1 stage (P = 0.029 andP = 0.022 respectively), wake (P = 0.007) and wake-time after sleep onset (P = 0.017). There was no difference in N3 or in sleep quality questionnaire scores.

Conclusion

Patients with IGHD due to GHRH resistance exhibit objective reduction in the sleep quality, with changes in NREM and REM sleep, with no detectable subjective consequences. GHRH resistance seems to have a preponderant role over GHD in the sleep quality of these subjects.
Usos medicinales de Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC. en comunidades rurales de la península de Paraguaná, Venezuela
Authors: Taisma María Angélica
Published: April 2017

En este trabajo se proporciona información de los usos medicinales atribuidos a Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC. por habitantes de cinco localidades rurales de la Peninsula Paraguaná (Estado Falcon, Venezuela). Se realizaron entrevistas semi-estructuradas a 51 informantes, de entre 23 y 86 años de edad, naturales de la península de Paraguaná. Todos los entrevistados atribuyeron alguna propiedad curativa a hojas, frutos y/o tallos de P. juliflora. Los mayores porcentajes de uso medicinal de la especie se refirieron a patologías traumatológicas, oftalmológicas y de la función sexual masculina. Algunos otros usos medicinales reportados en menor proporción incluyen tratamientos para la diabetes, enfermedades del sistema digestivo, parasitosis, enfermedades eruptivas, coadyuvante en casos de malestar general, cálculos renales y cáncer. Los resultados constituyen la primera compilación de usos medicinales de P. juliflora en Venezuela, y permiten establecer bases para el desarrollo de investigaciones tendientes a la determinación de su prospección bioquímica y farmacológica.
Saberes ancestrales sobre el uso de flora y fauna en la comunidad indígena Tikuna de Cushillo Cocha, zona fronteriza Perú-Colombia-Brasil
Authors: Rengifo-Salgado Elsa , Rios-Torres Sandra , Fachín Malaverri Lizardo , Vargas-Arana Gabriel
Published: April 2017

En el presente estudio se reportan los conocimientos ancestrales indígenas (etnoconocimientos) de la comunidad indígena Tikuna de Cushillo Cocha. La comunidad está ubicada en la provincia de Ramón Castilla, al nororiente de la Región Loreto, Perú. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de talleres participativos, entrevistas y recorridos biológicos para realizar la recolectar de especies vegetales, observar a animales in situ, acompañados por los pobladores con experiencia y conocimiento de su territorio. Un total de 247 especies de flora y fauna fueron registradas. En etnobotánica se identificaron 101 especies, en siete categorías de uso asignados por los pobladores, siendo las categorías de alimentación y medicinal las de mayor representatividad. Para el caso de etnozoología se identificaron 146 especies, que son utilizadas en seis categorías, siendo las de mayor relevancia las categorías de alimentación y mascotas. Se evidenció que el bosque es la fuente principal para la alimentación, cura de enfermedades, elaboración de artesanías, como mascotas para la venta y plantas como ornamentales, todo esto con importante aceptación por parte de la población indígena.
Ampliación de la distribución sur de Ucides occidentalis (Decapoda: Ucididae) y Cardisoma crassum (Decapoda: Gecarcinidae)
Authors: Alemán Solange , Ordinola Elmer
Published: April 2017

Se registra las especies de cangrejos braquiuros Ucides occidentalis (cangrejo del manglar) y Cardisoma crassum (Cangrejo azul o sin boca) en los manglares de San Pedro (Piura), ampliándose su distribución geográfica al sur de Tumbes, que era el límite conocido. El hábitat de estas especies se caracteriza por la presencia de dos variedades de árboles de mangle, jelí blanco (Laguncularia racemosa) y jelí salado (Avicenia germinans) y el arbusto halofítico llamado vidrio (Batis marítima), observándose que la profundidad de las madrigueras investigadas es superficial (< 60 cm). Se presenta además información biométrica y algunos aspectos biológicos de los especímenes colectados.
Asociación de floraciones de algas nocivas y Vibrio spp. en áreas de pesca y acuicultura de bivalvos de moluscos en las bahías de Sechura y Pisco, Perú
Authors: Orozco Rita , Quispe Yessica , Lorenzo Alberto , Zamudio María Luz
Published: April 2017

Entre febrero de 2010 y mayo de 2014 se realizaron 22 evaluaciones en Pisco y 16 en Sechura; ambas áreas importantes en Perú para la extracción de moluscos y maricultura. La incidencia de Vibrio en el agua de mar fue monitoreada durante las floraciones de algas y en épocas normales. Se midieron parámetros ambientales tales como temperatura y nutrientes. En Sechura, Pseudo-nitzschia seriata y Protoperidinium depressum causaron floraciones de algas y fueron dominantes durante todo el período de evaluación. Las temperaturas en esta zona oscilaron entre 21.8 y 25.3 °C. En Pisco, la concentración Akashiwo sanguinea, Messodinium rubrum y Prorocentrum mínimum y el dinoflagelado Cochlodinium polikrykoides fueron los más frecuentes. Las floraciones de algas nocivas ocurrieron cuando las temperaturas estaban entre 17.1 y 23.3 °C, concentraciones de fosfatos que oscilaban entre 1.22 - 6.85 μM y nitratos 0.15 - 7.85 μM. En mayo de 2012, el dinoflagelado Alexandrium peruvianum causó una floración algal, bajo temperaturas de 18.0 a 23.2 °C, valores de fosfato de 0.73 a 11.56 μM y nitratos de 0.76 a 9.81 μM. Los coliformes fueron bajos < 2 – 23 MPN/100 mL, en ambas bahías durante todo el período de estudio. Vibrio alginolyticus fue la especie dominante. Mientras que V. vulnificus y V. parahaemolyticus se detectaron en Pisco, donde las temperaturas del mar comúnmente son mayores y los casos de infecciones graves por ingestión de mariscos se han asociado con el patógeno V. parahaemolyticus.
Everolimus Plus Exemestane in Advanced Breast Cancer: Safety Results of the BALLET Study on Patients Previously Treated Without and with Chemotherapy in the Metastatic Setting
Authors: Generali Daniele , Montemurro Filippo , Bordonaro Roberto , Mafodda Antonino , Romito Sante , Michelotti Andrea , Piovano Pierluigi , Ionta Maria Teresa , Bighin Claudia , Sartori Donata , Frassoldati Antonio , Cazzaniga Marina Elena , Riccardi Ferdinando , Testore Franco , Vici Patrizia , Barone Carlo Antonio , Schirone Alessio , Piacentini Federico , Nolè Franco , Molino Annamaria , Latini Luciano , Simoncini Edda Lucia , Roila Fausto , Cognetti Francesco , Nuzzo Francesco , Foglietta Jennifer , Minisini Alessandro Marco , Goffredo Francesca , Portera Giuseppe , Ascione Gilda , Mariani Gabriella
Published: April 2017

Background

The BALLET study was an open-label, multicenter, expanded access study designed to allow treatment with everolimus plus exemestane in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer progressed following prior endocrine therapy. A post hoc analysis to evaluate if previous chemotherapy in the metastatic setting affects the safety profile of the combination regimen of everolimus and exemestane was conducted on the Italian subset, as it represented the major part of the patients enrolled (54%).

Patients and Methods

One thousand one hundred and fifty-one Italian patients were included in the present post hoc analysis, which focused on two sets of patients: patients who never received chemotherapy in the metastatic setting (36.1%) and patients who received at least one chemotherapy treatment in the metastatic setting (63.9%).

Results

One thousand one hundred and sixteen patients (97.0%) prematurely discontinued the study drug, and the main reasons reported were disease progression (39.1%), local reimbursement of everolimus (31.1%), and adverse events (AEs) (16.1%). The median duration of study treatment exposure was 139.5 days for exemestane and 135.0 days for everolimus. At least one AE was experienced by 92.5% of patients. The incidence of everolimus-related AEs was higher (83.9%) when compared with those that occurred with exemestane (29.1%), and the most commonly reported everolimus-related AE was stomatitis (51.3%). However, no significant difference in terms of safety related to the combination occurred between patients without and with chemotherapy in the metastatic setting.

Conclusion

Real-life data of the Italian patients BALLET-related cohort were an adequate setting to state that previous chemotherapy did not affect the safety profile of the combination regimen of everolimus and exemestane.
RELACIÓN DEL PROVEEDOR DE SERVICIOS FARMACÉUTICOS CON SUS CLIENTES: UNA MIRADA DESDE EL MARKETING RELACIONAL EN EL DEPARTAMENTO DE SUCRE
Authors: Martínez Benítez John Pablo
Published: April 2017

El presente artículo de investigación se realizó con el objetivo de analizar la relación del proveedor de servicios farmacéuticos con sus clientes, desde el marketing relacional en el departamento de Sucre (Colombia). El estudio se fundamentó en la perspectiva del paradigma interpretativo, y se utilizó el método de investigación descriptivo, basado en la estructura de investigación de Quivy y Campenhoudt, que se articuló con las etapas del procedimiento científico. Entre los resultados obtenidos, se destaca la identificación de tres tipos de clientes en el sector farmacéutico. Además, se encontró que los proveedores de este sector en Sucre han generado fuertes lazos con sus clientes, a pesar de que los canales de comunicación con estos son insuficientes. Los proveedores farmacéuticos también han generado alianzas con los distribuidores mayoristas para satisfacer las necesidades de los clientes. Se concluyó que para qué la relación del sector farmacéutico con sus clientes perdure, se requiere brindar un servicio que inspire confianza y le proporcione al cliente la seguridad de que el producto que se le ofrece llena sus expectativas. ABSTRACTThis research paper, whose aim was to analyze the relationship between pharmaceutical services provider and customers from the relationship marketing in Sucre, Colombia. The study was based on the perspective of the interpretive paradigm and the research method used was descriptive, based on the research structure of Quivy and Campenhouldt, articulated with the stages in the scientific procedure. Among the results obtained, three types of clients within the pharmaceutical sector were identified; besides, providers of the Pharmaceutical sector in Sucre have created strong bonds with their customers, despite the fact that channels of communication with them are insufficient. Pharmaceutical providers have also created partnerships with wholesale distributors of the Pharmaceutical sector to meet the customers’ needs. It was concluded that for the relationship between the Pharmaceutical sector and clients’ lasts, it requires to provide a service that inspires confidence and assure them that the product offered will meet their expectations.
A Síndrome de Burnout em Estudantes de Ciências Contábeis de IES Privadas: Pesquisa na Cidade de São Paulo
Authors: Peleias Ivam Ricardo , Guimarães Erotides Rocha , Chan Betty Lilian , Carlotto Mary Sandra
Published: April 2017

O objetivo do estudo é identificar a prevalência e os fatores sociodemográficos, laborais e acadêmicos associados a Síndrome de Burnout em ultimoanistas de Ciências Contábeis. Burnout é o resultado do stress crônico e constitui-se em alterações nas dimensões (a) Exaustão Emocional, (b) Descrença e (c) Eficácia Profissional. É uma pesquisa empírico-analítica junto a uma amostra não probabilística de 419 alunos do período noturno de sete IES privadas da cidade de São Paulo. Como instrumentos de pesquisa foram usados o MBI-SS e um questionário para as variáveis sociodemográficas, laborais e acadêmicas. Nas três dimensões foram constatadas diferenças significativas entre os alunos, agrupados em cinco categorias de trabalho. A aferição em três dimensões indicou 46,3% dos alunos com alteração na Exaustão Emocional, 11,2% na Descrença e 31,3% na Eficácia Profissional. Foram encontrados três grupos de alunos com alterações, relativas às dimensões as quais estão expostos. Estão descritos os resultados obtidos em dois grupos, expostos a duas ou mais dimensões causadoras de Burnout. O grupo 2 revelou alterações na Exaustão Emocional e em alguma outra dimensão, o grupo 3 nas três dimensões. Os alunos de uma IES revelaram nos três grupos maiores chances de exposição a Burnout. O mesmo ocorreu para os sujeitos do grupo 3 de outras IES. Parte dos sujeitos manifestou a sensação de que não estarem capacitados aumenta as chances de exposição a Burnout.
Comportamento e Particularidades da Produção Acadêmica do Tema “Contabilidade Gerencial” Divulgada na Base de Dados do ISI WEB of Science Core Collection de 1985 a 2014
Authors: Ribeiro Henrique César Melo , Tavares Vanessa Carvalho Miranda
Published: April 2017

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o comportamento e as particularidades da produção acadêmica do tema Contabilidade Gerencial divulgada no ISI Web of Science Core Collection de 1985 a 2014. Metodologicamente, esta pesquisa utilizou as técnicas de análise bibliométrica e sociométrica. Os principais resultados foram: evolução do tema a partir de 2007; Accounting, Organizations and Society e Management Accounting Research, que foram os periódicos que mais publicaram sobre o tema “Contabilidade Gerencial”; Lukka, K. foi o autor mais profícuo; University of Turku foi a instituição que se destacou; e os Estados Unidos da América ficou em ênfase na produção do citado tema. Em relação às redes de coautoria, observou-se a sua baixa densidade de grau, impactando em uma alta centralidade de grau, tanto no que se refere ao degree como também ao betweenness. E os temas que ficaram em evidência neste estudo foram: educação; ensino e pesquisa contábil; gestão de custos; controle de gestão; gestão estratégica; e sistema de contabilidade gerencial. Conclui-se de maneira macro que este estudo evidenciou informações inerentes e contemporâneas sobre o tema “Contabilidade Gerencial”, enfocando em suas nuances o comportamento e as particularidades de sua produção acadêmica, divulgada no ISI Web of Science Core Collection de 1985 a 2014.
Corrosive injury of upper gastrointestinal tract and it outcome
Authors: Baluni Uday Shankar , Mistry Tejas , Kothari Ankur , Patel Tejas
Published: April 2017

Background: Corrosive gastrointestinal tract injuries are a source of considerable morbidity all over the world and differ in their presentations.Methods: In the present work, study was done on 41 patients with history of acute corrosive injury with a period of 24 hours of ingestion and analysis on the parameters of age, sex, mode of ingestion, nature of corrosive, clinical symptoms. Further UGI scopy was also done within 24 to 48 hours of admissions.Results: With the study it was found that, the incidence of corrosive ingestion was reducing as the age was increasing and among all patients 27 were females and only 14 were males. The most common cause of corrosive ingestion was suicidal found in 30 cases and only 11 were accidental and most common nature of corrosive used was acid. 2 patients get expired during the initial resuscitation. On GI scopy, 18 have grade 1, 12 have grade 0, 4 have grade 2 and 7 have grade 3 according to Zargar classification. Initially 35 patients were given conservative treatment and 4 cases were treated surgically by feeding jejunostomy. On follow up 31 were advised for conservative management and 7 required surgical management, out of which esophageal dilatation was done in 2 cases, esophageactomy in 2 cases and gastrojejunostomy was done in cases and one case get expired.Conclusions: Corrosive ingestion patient are managed on the basis of UGI scopic grading.
A clinico-pathological study and management of cystic swellings of scrotum
Authors: Ruban N. Prince Deva , Kumar P. Naresh , Sekar G. P.
Published: April 2017

Background: The cystic swellings of scrotum are one among the common surgical problem in all age group. Objective of this study is to identify the cause, mode of presentation, various modalities of treatment and outcome of these with least complications.Methods: A total of 100 cases of cystic swellings of scrotum fulfilling the methodology criteria’s were subjected to preformatted study. Final diagnosis was made with Clinical examination and Ultrasound. All 100 cases were treated surgically.Results: Most of the patients were in age group of 20-60 years (28%), presenting feature being scrotal swelling as a main complaint in 60% of cases, majority of them were right sided (64%), majority of them presented with in a year, 40% presented with in first 6 months and 30% in next 6 months. Primary vaginal hydrocele was the commonest cystic swelling (60%), followed by epididymal cyst, sebaceous cyst, haematocoele, pyocoele. Lord’s plication was the procedure, which was associated with early discharge of the patient and least post-operative complications. Most of the patients were discharged around 8th Post-operative day.Conclusions: Primary vaginal hydrocoele was the commonest cystic swellings of scrotum. Most of the cystic swellings were treated surgically with good results. Lord’s plication procedure was the least to have post-operative complication.
Epidemiology of major limb amputations: a cross sectional study from a South Indian tertiary care hospital
Authors: P. Unnikrishnan E. , Rollands Rakesh , Parambil Sasi M.
Published: April 2017

Background: Limb loss to amputation is a major problem especially in developing countries where majority of the cases are preventable. It is a burden, not just for the patient, but also for their care givers which imposes tremendous financial and psychological burden upon them. The aim was to outline the patterns, indications and short term complications of major limb among patients attending Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India which is a tertiary care centre.Methods: This was a prospective, observational study that was conducted at Govt. Medical College, Kozhikode, for a period of 18 months. 81 patients underwent major limb amputations in our hospital during the study period.Results: The age ranged between 23 to 90 years (mean 59.23±14.79). Males outnumber females by a ratio of 4:1. Above knee (transtibial) amputations were the most common. Diabetes mellitus was the most common cause (39.5%) followed by chronic NDMVI (33.3%). Younger individuals who underwent amputation were mostly due to trauma. Most common post op complication was surgical site infection (21%) and the most common organism cultured from the wound was Pseudomonas (50%). The most common additional procedure done was wound debridement. Themortality rate was 10% and mean duration of hospital stay was 23 days.  Conclusions: Complications of diabetic foot ulcers and chronic vascular disease were the most common indications for major limb amputation in our environment. Trauma was the most common indication in younger individuals. The majority of these amputations are preventable by provision of health education, early presentation and appropriate management of the common indications.