bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The New Economics of Equilibrium Sorting and Policy Evaluation Using Housing Markets
Authors: Kuminoff Nicolai V. , Smith V. Kerry , Timmins Christopher
Published: December 2013

Households “sort” across neighborhoods according to their wealth and their preferences for public goods, social characteristics, and commuting opportunities. The aggregation of these individual choices in markets and in other institutions influences the supply of amenities and local public goods. Pollution, congestion, and the quality of public education are examples. Over the past decade, advances in economic models of this sorting process have led to a new framework that promises to alter the ways we conceptualize the policy evaluation process in the future. These “equilibrium sorting” models use the properties of market equilibria, together with information on household behavior, to infer structural parameters that characterize preference heterogeneity. The results can be used to develop theoretically consistent predictions for the welfare implications of future policy changes. Analysis is not confined to marginal effects or a partial equilibrium setting. Nor is it limited to prices and quantities. Sorting models can integrate descriptions of how nonmarket goods are generated, estimate how they affect decision making, and, in turn, predict how they will be affected by future policies targeting prices or quantities. Conversely, sorting models can predict how equilibrium prices and quantities will be affected by policies that target product quality, information, or amenities generated by the sorting process. These capabilities are just beginning to be understood and used in applied research. This survey article aims to synthesize the state of knowledge on equilibrium sorting, the new possibilities for policy analysis, and the conceptual and empirical challenges that define the frontiers of the literature. (JEL C63, D04, E61, H41, R23, R31, R38)
Exchange Rate Predictability
Authors: Rossi Barbara
Published: December 2013

The main goal of this article is to provide an answer to the question: does anything forecast exchange rates, and if so, which variables? It is well known that exchange rate fluctuations are very difficult to predict using economic models, and that a random walk forecasts exchange rates better than any economic model (the Meese and Rogoff puzzle). However, the recent literature has identified a series of fundamentals/methodologies that claim to have resolved the puzzle. This article provides a critical review of the recent literature on exchange rate forecasting and illustrates the new methodologies and fundamentals that have been recently proposed in an up-to-date, thorough empirical analysis. Overall, our analysis of the literature and the data suggests that the answer to the question: “Are exchange rates predictable?” is, “It depends”—on the choice of predictor, forecast horizon, sample period, model, and forecast evaluation method. Predictability is most apparent when one or more of the following hold: the predictors are Taylor rule or net foreign assets, the model is linear, and a small number of parameters are estimated. The toughest benchmark is the random walk without drift. (JEL C53, F31, F37, E43, E52)
Facts and Challenges from the Great Recession for Forecasting and Macroeconomic Modeling
Authors: Ng Serena , Wright Jonathan H.
Published: December 2013

This paper provides a survey of business cycle facts, updated to take account of recent data. Emphasis is given to the Great Recession, which was unlike most other postwar recessions in the United States in being driven by deleveraging and financial market factors. We document how recessions with financial market origins are different from those driven by supply or monetary policy shocks. This helps explain why economic models and predictors that work well at some times do poorly at other times. We discuss challenges for forecasters and empirical researchers in light of the updated business cycle facts.
A Review Essay aboutFoundations of Neuroeconomic Analysisby Paul Glimcher
Authors: Camerer Colin F
Published: December 2013

Neuroeconomics aims to discover mechanisms of economic decision, and express them mathematically, to predict observed choice. While the contents of neuroeconomic models and evidence are obviously different than in traditional economics, (some of the) goals are identical: to explain and predict choice, the effects of comparative statics, and perhaps make interesting new welfare judgments that are defensible. To this end, Paul Glimcher's important book carefully describes how economics, psychological, and neural levels of explanation can be linked (a structure which has been successful in visual neuroscience). As Glimcher shows, the neural evidence is quite strong for a process of learning valuations through prediction error, and a simple model of neural valuation and comparison that corresponds to random utility (though subject to normalization, which produces menu effects). There is also rapidly growing evidence for more complicated constructs in behavioral economics, including prospect theory's account of risky choice, hyperbolic time discounting, level-k models of games, and social preferences corresponding to internal reward based on what happens to other agents. (JEL D01, D03, Y30)
History of Economic Thought, Methodology, and Heterodox Approaches: Worldly Philosopher: The Odyssey of Albert O. Hirschman
Authors: McPherson Michael
Published: December 2013

Michael McPherson of The Spencer Foundation reviews, “Worldly Philosopher: The Odyssey of Albert O. Hirschman” by Jeremy Adelman. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Explores the life and economic work of Albert O. Hirschman. Discusses Hirschman's early life in the Weimar Republic; Hirschman's education and early relationship with politics; Hirschman's journey to Paris; Hirschman's move to the London School of Economics and involvement in the Spanish Civil War; Hirschman's return to France and the outbreak of World War II; Hirschman's emigration to the United States; Hirschman's involvement in the U.S. Army; the aftermath of World War II; the Cold War and Red Scare; Hirschman's years in Colombia; Hirschman's Yale University years and The Strategy of Economic Development; the RAND Corporation; travel and research; the upheaval of the late 1960s; crisis and hope in Latin America; Hirschman and the Institute for Advanced Study; Hirschman's relationship with the human body; Hirschman during the late 1970s and early 1980s; Hirschman's study of the ethics of social science; Hirschman's work in retirement; and Hirschman's final years. Adelman is Walter Samuel Carpenter III Professor of Spanish Civilization and Culture and Director of the Council for International Teaching and Research at Princeton University.”
Mathematical and Quantitative Methods: Dynamic Models for Volatility and Heavy Tails: With Applications to Financial and Economic Time Series
Authors: Teräsvirta Timo
Published: December 2013

Timo Terasvirta of Aarhus University reviews, “Dynamic Models for Volatility and Heavy Tails: With Applications to Financial and Economic Time Series” by Andrew C. Harvey. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Presents a theory for a class of nonlinear time series models that can deal with dynamic distributions, with an emphasis on models in which the conditional distribution of an observation may be heavy-tailed and the location and/or scale changes over time. Discusses statistical distributions and asymptotic theory; location; scale; location/scale models for nonnegative variables; dynamic kernel density estimation and time-varying quantiles; multivariate models, correlation, and association; and further directions in dynamic models. Harvey is Professor of Econometrics at the University of Cambridge and Fellow of Corpus Christi College, the Econometric Society, and the British Academy.”
Financial Economics: Islamic Finance in Europe: Towards a Plural Financial System
Authors: Wilson Rodney
Published: December 2013

Rodney Wilson of Emeritus Professor, Durham University reviews, “Islamic Finance in Europe: Towards a Plural Financial System” by Valentino Cattelan. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Fifteen papers investigate Islamic finance in Europe as part of a plural financial system in the current age of globalization, through a multi- and interdisciplinary approach to law and economics. Papers discuss law as a kite—managing legal pluralism in the context of Islamic finance; a glimpse through the veil of Maya—Islamic finance and its truths on property rights; Islamic moral economy as the foundation of Islamic finance; financial stability and economic development—an Islamic perspective; Islamic banking contracts and the risk profile of Islamic banks; the economic impact of Islamic finance and the European Union; migrant banking in Europe—approaches, meanings, and perspectives; women's empowerment and Islam—open issues from the Arab world to Europe; Islamic banking in the EU legal framework; regulating Islamic financial institutions in the United Kingdom; Luxembourg—a leading domicile for Shari'ah compliant investments; managing Islamic finance vis-à-vis laïcité—the case of France; a critical view on Islamic finance in Germany; the development of Islamic banking in Turkey—regulation, performance, and political economy; and the move toward a plural financial system. Cattelan is Lecturer in Islamic Finance at the University of Rome ““Tor Vergata.””
Tumor microenvironment–associated modifications of alternative splicing
Authors: Brosseau Jean-Philippe , Lucier Jean-François , Nwilati Hanad , Thibault Philippe , Garneau Daniel , Gendron Daniel , Durand Mathieu , Couture Sonia , Lapointe Elvy , Prinos Panagiotis , Klinck Roscoe , Perreault Jean-Pierre , Chabot Benoit , Abou-Elela Sherif
Published: December 2013

Pre-mRNA alternative splicing is modified in cancer, but the origin and specificity of these changes remain unclear. Here, we probed ovarian tumors to identify cancer-associated splicing isoforms and define the mechanism by which splicing is modified in cancer cells. Using high-throughput quantitative PCR, we monitored the expression of splice variants in laser-dissected tissues from ovarian tumors. Surprisingly, changes in alternative splicing were not limited to the tumor tissues but were also found in the tumor microenvironment. Changes in the tumor-associated splicing events were found to be regulated by splicing factors that are differentially expressed in cancer tissues. Overall, ∼20% of the alternative splicing events affected by the down-regulation of the splicing factors QKI and RBFOX2 were altered in the microenvironment of ovarian tumors. Together, our results indicate that the tumor microenvironment undergoes specific changes in alternative splicing orchestrated by a limited number of splicing factors.
Numerical Simulation and Optimization of Sleipner Carbon Sequestration Project
Authors: Zhang Zheming , Agarwal Ramesh K.
Published: December 2013

The capability of accurate numerical simulation and optimization is greatly desired as the technology of geological carbon sequestration (GCS) advances. It can provide quick information for preliminary design of a GCS project. The simulation and optimization results can provide better understanding of the nature of GCS and the uncertainties associated with it and therefore can provide guidelines and the development of best practices for its deployment. In this paper, first the satisfactory history-matching of the Sleipner GCS project is achieved by using the TOUGH2 simulation package. Next, the reservoir engineering technique known as water-alternating-gas (WAG) is applied to the model of the Utsira formation and optimization studies are conducted to determine the optimal WAG operation using the recently developed simulation/optimization code GA-TOUGH2. Results of WAG optimization suggest that in situ CO2 footprint reduction and dissolution acceleration can be achieved while minimizing the water usage.
The average signature of graph links
Authors: Borodzik Maciej , Sosnowska Jadwiga
Published: December 2013

We compute the average Tristram–Levine signature of any graph link with positive weights in a three sphere.
The main tools are Neumann's algorithm
for computing the equivariant signatures of graph links and the Reciprocity Law for Dedekind sums.
Higher Order Predictive Functional Control Versus Dynamical Matrix Control for a Milk Pasteurisation Process: Transfer Function Versus Finite Step Response Internal Models
Authors: Mohamed Khadir Tarek , Vincent Ringwood John
Published: December 2013

Predictive functional control (PFC), a model predictive control algorithm, has been proven to be very successful in a wealth of industrial applications due to its many laudable attribute, such as its simplicity and intuitive appeal. For simple single input single output processes, PFC applications use a first-order plus delay internal model and, as long as such models improve the control over classical control strategies, then their use remains justified. In this paper, a higher order internal PFC model is considered in order to reduce any possible plant-model mismatch, where the internal model is formulated as a series of cascaded or parallel first-order systems. The control approach is compared to a more conventional over parameterized dynamical matrix control (DMC) approach, used extensively for Multi-Input Multi-Output systems in the petrochemical industry. This paper demonstrates the benefits of the PFC higher order formulation for a typical milk pasteurisation plant, with significant improvements in the variances of both controlled and manipulated variables when compared to a first-order PFC. In this aspect, the higher order controller competes well with DMC performances, however, using a much more simpler and compact internal model form.
Risk factors for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism: a review
Authors: Kevane Barry , Donnelly Jennifer , D’Alton Mary , Cooley Sharon , Preston Roger J.S. , Áinle Fionnuala Ní
Published: December 2013

Aim: To critically evaluate current understanding of risk factors for pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE) and to describe underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods: A literature search was undertaken using the national library of medicine PubMed database. The search terms used were “pregnancy” and “venous thromboembolism”. Following exclusion of unsuitable data sources, studies were identified that described specific risk factors for pregnancy-associated VTE and suggested possible underlying molecular mechanisms. Adjusted odds ratios and incident rate ratios for these specific risk factors were identified in each study and tabulated.

Results: A series of mainly retrospective cohort and case control studies over the past two decades have reported specific risk factors for pregnancy-associated VTE. Recent published literature has highlighted the interaction between commonly occurring risk factors, particularly the potential for a multiplicative effect on overall VTE risk, and have led to improvements in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these risk factors.

Conclusion: Mortality from pregnancy associated VTE continues despite prevention strategies. A detailed understanding of specific risk factors, their interactions and underlying molecular mechanisms is required to identify women at highest risk and to guide development of thromboprophylaxis strategies.
Gestational weight gain according to number of fetuses in Japanese women
Authors: Morikawa Mamoru , Yamada Takahiro , Akaishi Rina , Yamada Takashi , Nishida Ryutaro , Sato Shoji , Kaneuchi Masanori , Minakami Hisanori
Published: December 2013

Aim: It is unknown whether weekly maternal weight gain differs between Japanese women with singleton, twin, and triplet pregnancies.

Methods: Gestational weight gain defined as net weight gain during pregnancy was analyzed in 135,036 pregnant Japanese women, including 128,838 with singletons, 5573 with twins, and 132 with triplets, who gave birth at ≥22 weeks of gestation between 2007 and 2009. Weekly weight gain was defined as follows: gestational weight gain÷[gestational week (GW) at Delivery–2].

Results: Length of gestation (weeks, mean±SD) decreased significantly (38.2±2.6, 35.3±3.0, and 32.7±2.8) with increasing number of fetuses, while overall gestational weight gain (kg) was significantly smaller in women with singletons than in those with either twins or triplets (9.6±4.4 vs. 10.9±4.8 or 10.9±5.2, respectively). Thus, weekly maternal weight gain (kg/week) increased significantly with increasing number of fetuses (0.26±0.12, 0.33±0.13, and 0.35±0.16). Among women with delivery at or after GW 34, difference in gestational weight gain (kg) was prominent between the three groups (9.8±4.4, 11.4±4.7, and 13.0±5.1 for singleton, twin, and triplet pregnancies, respectively, P<0.001 between any two groups).

Conclusions: Weekly maternal weight gain increases with increasing number of fetuses. Our figures may be useful for advising Japanese women with multifetal pregnancies regarding gestational weight gain.
Evaluation of a novel placental alpha microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) test to predict spontaneous preterm delivery
Authors: Nikolova Tanja , Bayev Oleg , Nikolova Natasha , Di Renzo Gian Carlo
Published: December 2013

Objective: The PartoSure™ time-to-delivery (TTD) test (AmniSure International, Boston, MA, USA) is a newly available bedside test for the prediction of time to spontaneous preterm delivery via the detection of placental alpha microglobulin-1. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of the test in predicting imminent delivery in 7 or 14 days from the time of testing.

Methods: The study population consisted of 101 consecutively recruited pregnant women with singleton pregnancies between 20+0 and 36+6 weeks of gestation with symptoms of preterm labor, clinically intact amniotic membranes, and minimal cervical dilatation (≤3 cm). The PartoSure™ TTD test was performed on these patients and the test-to-spontaneous-delivery interval was calculated.

Results: The PartoSure™ TTD test predicted spontaneous preterm delivery within 7 days with 90.0% sensitivity, 93.8% specificity, 97.4% negative predictive value (NPV), and 78.3% positive predictive value (PPV). The test predicted spontaneous preterm delivery within 14 days with 80% sensitivity, 96.1% specificity, 93.6% NPV, and 87.0% PPV.

Conclusion: A positive PartoSure™ TTD test in patients presenting with symptoms of preterm labor, intact membranes, and minimal cervical dilatation (≤3 cm) indicated spontaneous preterm delivery will occur within 7 days with a high degree of accuracy. A negative result indicated that spontaneous preterm delivery within 14 days is highly unlikely.
Analytical and experimental investigation of tensile properties of cross-ply and angle-ply GFRP composite laminates
Authors: Bourchak Mostefa , Harasani Wail
Published: December 2013

The static tensile properties in the form of ultimate failure stress, ultimate failure strain and Young’s modulus of a cross-ply glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite laminate [904, 04]s and an unconventional angle-ply GFRP composite laminate [+67.54, -67.54]s were investigated using the netting analysis, the laminate mixture rule (Hart-Smith 10% rule) and the classical laminate theory (CLT). The findings were then compared to experimental results to determine the accuracy of each analytical technique. It was found that the netting analysis was the best overall method for estimating the cross-ply laminate tensile properties, whereas neither the CLT nor the 10% rule were appropriate for estimating the tensile properties of the unconventional ply angle laminate.
Macroscopic and histological characteristics of fluid-filled ovarian structures in dairy cows
Authors: Balogh Orsolya , Túry Ernő , Abonyi-Tóth Zsolt , Kastelic John , Gábor György
Published: December 2013

The primary objective of this study was to use macroscopic and histological features of corpora lutea with a cavity and anovulatory cystic ovarian structures, present in 90 pairs of abattoir-derived dairy cow ovaries, as the basis to clarify the nomenclature of ovarian structures. Excluding morphologically normal ovarian fol-licles (antrum < 2 cm, wall < 1 mm), there were 27 fluid-filled ovarian structures. Ovulatory structures > 16 mm in diameter were designated as Group A (cavity ≤ 10 mm and wall > 10 mm) or Group B (cavity > 10 mm and wall < 10 mm). The volume of luteal tissue was less (P < 0.05) in Group B than in Group A, whereas that of a solid corpus luteum (CL) was intermediate (least square means ± SEM: 72 ± 1.92, 11.22 ± 1.57 and 5.84 ± 1.92 cm3, respectively). There was a greater proportion (P < 0.05) of small luteal cells in Group B compared to a solid CL, whereas Group A was intermediate (58.6 ± 5.3, 37.4 ± 5.3 and 44.0 ± 4.4%, respectively). Connective tissue was thicker (P < 0.05) in Group B than in Group A (295.4 ± 46.9 vs. 153.9 ± 38.2 μm). Based on the above-mentioned characteristics and differences, Groups A and B were designated as a CL with a cavity and a cystic CL, respectively. Furthermore, there were three groups of anovulatory ovarian structures. Structures in Group C were termed persistent/anovulatory follicles (overall diameter and wall thickness ≤ 20 and 1–3 mm, respectively). Finally, Groups D and E were designated as a follicle-fibrous cyst and a follicle-luteinised cyst (based on histological structure) for anovulatory structures with an overall diameter and wall thickness of ≥ 20 and ≤ 3 mm, and ≥ 20 and ≥ 3 mm, respectively.
Serum total and bone alkaline phosphatase levels and their correlation with serum minerals over the lifespan of sheep
Authors: Sousa Cristina , Azevedo Jorge , Silva Amélia , Viegas Carlos , Reis Rui , Gomes Manuela , Dias Isabel
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to assess serum total alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and its bone isoform (BALP) levels during the ageing and in different physiologic states of sheep, in order to expand the knowledge about the variation of these biomarkers over the sheep lifespan. Ninety female sheep were divided into nine groups of various ages and physiological states (dry, lactation and pregnancy). Serum ALP, BALP and mineral levels were determined by commercial immunoassay, molecular absorbance spectrophotometry and chemical luminescence for BALP determination. Serum ALP and BALP decreased as sheep aged, and no statistically significant differences were obtained between ewes in different physiologic states. The continuous decline of serum BALP concentration along the sheep lifespan, namely in mature and old sheep, is a sign of decreasing bone turnover associated with ageing. Serum calcium concentrations increased slightly until 2 years of age and then showed a tenuous but statistically significant decrease in mature sheep, while serum phosphorus maintained an uninterrupted decrease as sheep matured. The knowledge of serum values of bone biomarkers throughout the sheep lifespan may be useful in preclinical orthopaedic research studies and for animal science studies using sheep.
Survival of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in fresh pork
Authors: Guarino Helena , Moura Junior , Cox Ryan , Goyal Sagar , Patnayak Devi
Published: December 2013

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) remains one of the most economically important diseases of pigs. Transmission of PRRS virus has been reported through many routes, with aerosol route being the most predominant. There may also be a potential risk of transmission through contami-nated pork, but this has never been investigated. The purpose of this study was to experimentally contaminate fresh pork with three different concentrations of PRRSV and to study virus survival at ambient (25 °C), refrigerated (4 °C), and frozen (−20 °C) temperatures. Concentrations of virus representing natural infectivity level and ‘worst case scenario’ were studied. The virus was detected in fresh pork at all three virus concentrations for up to 48 h at ambient temperature. At 4 °C, the virus survived for 6 days in pork inoculated with the higher virus concentration and for 3 days in pork inoculated at the lower concentration. At frozen temperature, PRRSV was detected for up to 60 days in pork inoculated at the higher concentration and for 7 days in pork inoculated at the lower concentration. These results suggest that fresh pork has the potential to be a vehicle for virus dissemination depending upon temperature and time of storage.
Expression of claudins in the normal canine gastric mucosa
Authors: Psáder Roland , Jakab Csaba , Máthé Ákos , Balka Gyula , Pápa Kinga , Sterczer Ágnes
Published: December 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression pattern of claudin-1, -2, -3, -4, -5, -7, -8, -10 and -18 in the intact fundic and pyloric gastric mucosa of dogs. Intense, linear, membranous claudin-18 positivity was detected in the surface gastric cells and in the epithelial cells of the gastric glands both in the fundic and pyloric stomach regions. The mucous neck cells in the apical part of the glands, furthermore the parietal cells and chief cells of the basal part of the gland were all positive for claudin-18, in the same way as the enteroendocrine cells. Cells of the basal part of the pyloric glands showed intense, linear, membranous claudin-2 positivity, but cells of the superficial portion of these glands and the surface gastric cells in this region were claudin-2 negative. Fibroblasts, endothelial cells, lymphocytes of the propria layer, smooth muscle cells and vegetative neurons were all negative for claudin-2. All gastric epithelial cells were negative for claudin-1, -3, -4, -5, -6, -7, -8 and -10. The endothelial cells of the propria layer had intense claudin-5 positivity. We assume that claudin-18 forms a paracellular barrier against gastric acid in the healthy canine stomach, in the same way as in mice.
Mosaic arthroplasty of the medial femoral condyle in horses — An experimental study
Authors: Bodó Gábor , Vásárhelyi Gábor , Hangody László , Módis László
Published: December 2013

One Arabian and 5 Hungarian half-bred horses were used to study the macroscopic and microscopic survival of autologous osteochondral grafts in the weight-bearing surface of the medial femoral condyle (MFC). Grafts were harvested from the cranial surface of the medial femoral trochlea (MFT) under arthroscopic control. Three of them were transplanted into the weight-bearing surface of the contralateral MFC using an arthrotomy approach. Three months later this transplantation procedure was repeated on the opposite stifle joints in the same animals, but at that time transplantation was performed arthroscopically. Follow-up arthroscopy was carried out 12 months after the first operations, and biopsies were taken from both the recipient and the donor sites for histological examination. During follow-up arthroscopy, the transplanted areas looked congruent and smooth. Microscopically, the characteristics of hyaline cartilage were present in 5 out of the 10 biopsies examined; however, in the other half of biopsies glycosaminoglycan (GAG) loss and change in the architecture of the transplanted cartilage was observed. In a 16-year-old horse, all grafts broke during harvesting, and thus transplantation was not performed. No radiological signs of osteoarthritic changes were detected 9 to 12 months after the operations in the donor and recipient joints. Clinically, no lameness or effusion was present three months after the transplantations.
Preoperatív kemoterápia a colorectalis májáttétes betegek sebészi kezelésében
Authors: Dede Kristóf , Láng István , Pörneczi Balázs , Mester Gábor , Fekete András , Kőszegi György , Mersich Tamás , Besznyák István , Bursics Attila
Published: December 2013

Absztrakt

Bevezetés:A colorectalis májáttétek (CRLM) kezelésének egyetlen potenciálisan kuratív terápiája a sebészi resectio. A preoperatív/neoadjuváns kemoterápia mind a resecabilis, mind az ún. borderline resecabilis, mind az irresecabilis betegek esetében része lehet a kezelésnek.Beteganyag:Az Uzsoki Utcai Kórházban májresectióval kezelt CRLM-es betegek adatait elemeztük. Két csoportba osztottuk a betegeket: az A csoport kapott preoperatív kemoterápiás kezelést, a B csoport nem kapott preoperatív kezelést.Eredmények:2007. január 1. és 2010. december 31. között 128 betegnél történt kuratív célú májresectio CRLM miatt. 68 beteg (53%) kapott, 60 beteg (47%) nem kapott preoperatív kemoterápiás kezelést. A szövődmények tekintetében nem találtunk különbséget a két csoport között (p= 0,39). A median teljes túlélés 41 hónap volt. A progressziómentes (PFS) 3 és 5 éves túlélés 25%, a teljes (OS) 3 és 5 éves túlélés 55% és 31% volt. A kemoterápiás csoport (A) túlélését szignifikánsan rosszabbnak találtuk mind a PFS, mind az OS tekintetében (p= 0,014,p= 0,015) a B csoporthoz képest. Amikor az A csoporton belül a bevacizumabbal kombinált kemoterápiát kapott alcsoport adatait a csak citotoxikus kezelést kapott betegek adataival hasonlítottuk össze, szignifikánsan jobb PFS-értéket kaptunk a bevacizumab-kezelésben részesültek javára (p= 0,004).Következtetések:A colorectalis májáttétek sebészi kezelésével jó hosszú távú túlélési eredmények érhetőek el még nem szelektált beteganyagon is, az irodalomban közölt kiemelkedően magas túlélési eredményeket azonban beteganyagunkon még nem tudtuk igazolni. Amennyiben a preoperatív kemoterápiás kezelést bevacizumabbal kombináltan kapták a betegek, úgy a májresectiót követő túlélési eredmények az eleve resecabilis betegek túlélési eredményeivel egyezőek voltak.
A thrombocytosis mint prediktív faktor értékelése colorectalis tumorokban
Authors: Baranyai Zsolt , Jósa Valéria , Krzystanek Marcin , Eklund Aron C. , Szász A. Marcell , Szállási Zoltán
Published: December 2013

Absztrakt

Bevezetés/célkitűzés:A preoperatív thrombocytosist mint negatív prognosztikai markert több szolid tumorban igazolták. Azonban a colorectalis daganatok esetében a szakirodalom nem egységes. Vizsgálatunk célja annak megállapítása volt, hogy a thrombocytosis független rizikófaktora-e a metastasisképződésnek és a túlélésnek colorectalis daganatokban.Anyag és módszerek:A 2001 és 2011 közötti időszakból retrospektív módon 336 colorectalis tumor (CRC) és 118 colorectalis tumor eredetű májáttét (mCRC) miatt resecált beteg klinikopatológiai adatát gyűjtöttük ki. A thrombocytosist 400 G/l < vérlemezkeszámnál definiáltuk. A betegségmentes túlélést (DFS) és a teljes túlélést (OS) Kaplan–Meier- és log-rank módszerrel határoztuk meg.Eredmények:Mind a CRC-, mind a mCRC-csoportban az OS szignifikánsan rosszabb volt azoknál a betegeknél, akiknek emelkedett volt a vérlemezkeszámuk (HR = 2,2,p< 0,001 és HR = 2,9,p= 0,018). A többváltozós elemzés azt mutatta, hogy az emelkedett thrombocytaszám független prognosztikai faktor CRC-ben (HR = 1,7,p= 0,035) és mCRC-ben egyaránt (HR = 3,1,p= 0,017). A DFS szignifikánsan rosszabb volt a CRC-csoport azon betegeinél, akiknek magasabb volt a vérlemezkeszámuk (HR = 2,0,p= 0,011).Következtetések:A thrombocytaszám értékes és viszonylag olcsón elérhető prognosztikai faktor a túlélés vonatkozásában a CRC-ben és az mCRC-ben szenvedő betegeknél.
Hosszú túléléssel járó malignus tumor miatti tüdőmegtartó centrális főhörgőplasztikáink
Authors: Kecskés László István , Bátor Győző , Füredi Árpád , Gehér Pál , Kiss Béla , Stankovics Péter
Published: December 2013

Absztrakt

Bevezetés:A daganatos haláloki statisztikát vezető malignus hörgőtumorok eseteiben hosszú túlélésre csak a radikálisan operált betegek számíthatnak. Mégis, jól lokalizált, centrális és low grade malignomák kezelésében a tüdőmegtartó centrális bronchusplasztikáknak is helye lehet.Célkitűzés:A parenchymakonzerváló műtétek az egyik oldali teljes tüdő eltávolításának vagy az inoperabilitásnak a pozitív alternatívái lehetnek. Értékét a mortalitás, a szövődmények és a túlélés alapján lehet megítélni.Beteganyag és módszer:1985–2012 között 7130 hörgőcarcinomás beteget operáltunk. 80 centrális bronchoplasztikai műtétből7 esetben a jobb vagy bal főhörgő izolált vagy az egész bifurcatiós carina resectiója és a tüdő autotranszplantációja révén teljes tüdőmegtartást értünk el.A 4 nő és 3 férfi átlagéletkora 28,5 (14–58) év volt. 4 beteg carcinoid, 1 laphámrák, 1 mucoepidermoid carcinoma miatt, 1 beteg kissejtes tüdőrák (SCLC) miatti kemo-radioterápia (KRT) után került műtétre. 1 esetben izolált carina-, 1 betegnél balfőhörgő-, 5 betegnél jobbfőhörgő-resectio történt. Az anastomosist csomós PDS öltésekkel a műtéti területen át bevezetett steril tubus (6 beteg), illetve jet-katéter (1 beteg) felett varrtuk. A betegeket műtét után extubáltuk.Eredmények:Műtéti mortalitás nem volt. A korai posztoperatív szakban ismételt bronchoscopos leszívásokat alkalmaztunk. A SCLC miatt operált betegnél subacut anastomosisstenosis miatt kétoldali ideiglenes stentimplantációt alkalmaztunk. 174 hónapja él, Karnofsky-index 90%. 5 másik beteg is tumorrecidíva, metastasis nélkül él. A laphámrák miatti izolált jobbfőhörgő-resecált beteg 83 hónap után bal oldali disseminált kissejtes tüdőrák miatt exitált.Átlagos túlélés: 118 hónap (7–233).Következtetések:Fiatal betegeknél, lokalizált centrális főhörgő rosszindulatú daganatok szelektált eseteiben, izolált carina-főhörgő resectióval nemcsak teljes tüdőmegtartás, hanem hosszú túlélés is elérhető. Az irodalomban vannak hasonlóan sikeres, kisebb szériák és esetbemutatások (összes esetszám 200 alatt), de hosszú távú eredményekről kevés az adat. Hazánkban ez a legnagyobb széria, eredményeink nemzetközi kitekintéssel mérve is helytállóak.
Use of nouns and verbs in the oral narrative of individuals with hearing impairment and normal hearing between 5 and 11 years of age
Authors: Amemiya Erica Endo , Goulart Barbara Niegia Garcia , Chiari Brasilia Maria
Published: December 2013

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Nouns and verbs indicate actions in oral communication. However, hearing impairment can compromise the acquisition of oral language to such an extent that appropriate use of these can be challenging. The objective of this study was to compare the use of nouns and verbs in the oral narrative of hearing-impaired and hearing children. DESIGN AND SETTING: Analytical cross-sectional study at the Department of Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences, Universidade Federal de São Paulo. METHODS: Twenty-one children with moderate to profound bilateral neurosensory hearing impairment and twenty-one with normal hearing (controls) were matched according to sex, school year and school type. A board showing pictures was presented to each child, to elicit a narrative and measure their performance in producing nouns and verbs. RESULTS: Twenty-two (52.4%) of the subjects were males. The mean age was 8 years (standard deviation, SD = 1.5). Comparing averages between the groups of boys and girls, we did not find any significant difference in their use of nouns, but among verbs, there was a significant difference regarding use of the imperative (P = 0.041): more frequent among boys (mean = 2.91). There was no significant difference in the use of nouns and verbs between deaf children and hearers, in relation to school type. Regarding use of the indicative, there was a nearly significant trend (P = 0.058). CONCLUSION: Among oralized hearing-impaired children who underwent speech therapy, their performance regarding verbs and noun use was similar to that of their hearing counterparts.
Frequency of MTHFR G1793A polymorphism in individuals with early coronary artery disease: cross-sectional study
Authors: Moritz Neto Antonio Ivo , Moura Junior Joel Rolim de , Persuhn Darlene Camati
Published: December 2013

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Atherosclerotic disease is the leading cause of death in Brazil. It is a complex disease and its prevention involves identification and control of risk factors. Moderately increased plasma homocysteine concentration (hyperhomocysteinemia) has been considered to be a risk factor for several vascular diseases. Mutations in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme, which is involved in homocysteine metabolism, have been investigated as potential vascular disease risk factors. G1793A polymorphism was described in 2002 and there are few studies analyzing its involvement in diseases. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of G1793A polymorphism in subjects with early coronary artery disease (CAD). DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study with control group conducted at a private cardiology clinic and a molecular biology laboratory (Universidade do Vale do Itajaí). METHODS: We studied 74 early-onset CAD+ patients and 40 CAD- individuals with normal angiography results. DNA was extracted from blood samples. Molecular data were obtained via PCR/RFLP and agarose gel electrophoresis. RESULTS: The occurrence of G1793A heterozygotes was similar in the control (5%) and test (6.25%) groups, thus showing that in the population studied there was no correlation between the marker and occurrences of early CAD. There was also no association between the polymorphism and the risk factors for atherosclerosis. CONCLUSIONS: The frequency of the 1793A allele in the test group (3.4%) was similar to what was found in the control individuals (2.5%). There was no correlation between G1793A polymorphism and occurrences of early CAD in this population.
Prevalence of allergen sensitization, most important allergens and factors associated with atopy in children
Authors: Baldacara Raquel Prudente de Carvalho , Fernandes Maria de Fatima Marcelos , Baldacara Leonardo , Aun Wilson Tartuce , Mello Joao Ferreira de , Pires Mario Cesar
Published: December 2013

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Knowledge of the profile of allergen sensitization among children is important for planning preventive measures. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and profile of sensitization to inhaled allergens and food among children and adolescents in an outpatient population in the city of Palmas. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study at outpatient clinics in Palmas, Tocantins, Brazil. METHODS: Ninety-four patients aged 1-15 years who were attending two pediatric outpatient clinics were selected between September and November 2008. All of the subjects underwent clinical interviews and skin prick tests. RESULTS: A positive skin prick test was observed in 76.6% of the participants (72.3% for inhalants and 28.9% for food allergens). The most frequent allergens were Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (34%), cat epithelium (28.7%), dog epithelium (21.3%), Dermatophagoides farinae (19.1%), Blomia tropicalis (18.1%), cow's milk (9.6%) and grasses (9.6%). A positive skin prick test correlated with a history of atopic disease (odds ratio, OR = 5.833; P = 0.002), a family history of atopic disease (OR = 8.400; P < 0.001), maternal asthma (OR = 8.077; P = 0.048), pet exposure (OR = 3.600; P = 0.012) and cesarean delivery (OR = 3.367; P = 0.019). CONCLUSION: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus was the most frequent aeroallergen and cow’s milk was the most prevalent food allergen. There was a positive correlation between a positive skin prick test and several factors, such as a family history of atopic disease, maternal asthma, pet exposure and cesarean delivery.
Prevalence of obesity and cardiovascular risk among children and adolescents in the municipality of Santa Cruz do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Reuter Cezane Priscila , Burgos Leandro Tibirica , Camargo Marcelo Dias , Possuelo Lia Goncalves , Reckziegel Miriam Beatris , Reuter Eboni Marilia , Meinhardt Francielle Pasqualotti , Burgos Miria Suzana
Published: December 2013

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Studies have demonstrated that metabolic complications from child obesity, although silent, increase the risk of development of cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. The present paper sought to describe the prevalence of overweight/obesity and analyze the possible relationship between obesity and other cardiovascular risk factors among children and adolescents. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study, conducted in a university. METHODS: The study included 564 children and adolescents, aged 8 to 17 years. Body mass index and waist circumference were used to evaluate obesity. Other cardiovascular risk factors were evaluated, like systolic and diastolic blood pressure, glycemia, triglycerides and total cholesterol. Descriptive analysis was used for sample characterization, the chi-square test for categorical variables and Pearson's linear correlation for evaluating the relationship between obesity indicators and other cardiovascular risk factors. RESULTS: High prevalence of overweight/obesity was found among the schoolchildren (25.3% among the boys and 25.6% among the girls), along with abdominal obesity (19.0%). The overweight/obese schoolchildren presented higher percentages for the pressure and biochemical indicators, compared with underweight and normal-weight schoolchildren. Body mass index and waist circumference showed a weak correlation with the variables of age and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P < 0.001), but there was no correlation between these obesity indices and biochemical variables. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of overweight/obesity and its relationship with other cardiovascular risk factors demonstrate that it is necessary to develop intervention and prevention strategies from childhood onwards, in order to avoid development of chronic-degenerative diseases in adulthood.
O Engajamento Paterno como Fator de Regulação da Agressividade em Pré-Escolares
Authors: Gomes Lauren Beltrão , Crepaldi Maria Aparecida , Bigras Marc
Published: December 2013

Este estudo teve por objetivo investigar o engajamento paterno como fator de regulação da agressividade em crianças de quatro a seis anos de idade. Cinquenta pais responderam a questionários sobre seu engajamento com os filhos e dados sociodemográficos e 26 educadoras responderam questionários acerca do desenvolvimento social das crianças. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e inferenciais. Constatou-se que os pais estão engajados com seus filhos e realizam com maior frequência atividades referentes a suporte emocional, disciplina e jogos físicos. O pai com maior jornada de trabalho é menos engajado e quanto mais ele se dedica aos cuidados básicos e às tarefas de casa, menos os filhos apresentam problemas de externalização. Políticas e programas de apoio ao envolvimento paterno são essenciais para a transformação e consolidação da responsabilidade masculina com relação aos filhos e para a prevenção da agressividade persistente.
Validade de Critério do Inventário de Potencial para Abuso Infantil (CAP)
Authors: Patrian Ana Carolina de Almeida , Rios Karyne de Souza Augusto , Williams Lúcia Cavalcanti de Albuquerque
Published: December 2013

É grande o interesse pelo tema da violência contra a criança, porém são escassas suas formas de avaliação, dificultando o desenvolvimento de intervenções. O Inventário de Potencial de Abuso Infantil (CAP) é considerado eficaz na identificação precoce de pais considerados em risco de agredirem fisicamente seus filhos e uma boa ferramenta para avaliar intervenções na área dos maus-tratos contra crianças e adolescentes. O presente estudo objetivou realizar a validade de critério do Inventário CAP, por meio da comparação de seus resultados entre cuidadores considerados de alto risco para abuso infantil e cuidadores de baixo risco para o abuso infantil. Dois grupos de pais foram participantes, sendo um grupo composto por 20 pais denunciados por agressões físicas e o outro grupo de 20 pais não agressores de igual nível socioeconômico e educacional. Os resultados indicaram que o inventário é capaz de avaliar as diferenças entre os grupos propostos, demonstrando ser um bom instrumento para o trabalho de serviços de proteção à criança epara a avaliação de intervenções e políticas públicas ou pesquisas.
Temperamento de Crianças e Diferenças de Gênero
Authors: Cosentino-Rocha Luciana , Linhares Maria Beatriz Martins
Published: December 2013

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar estudos sobre o efeito do temperamento e gênero no desenvolvimento, do nascimento até a idade escolar. Uma revisão sistemática foi realizada nas bases PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science, LILACS and SciELO. As palavras-chave temperament e gender ou sex differences foram usadas para identificar estudos empíricos publicados entre 2004 e Abril/2009. Os resultados mostraram que nos estudos sobre amostras de crianças com desenvolvimento típico, meninos apresentaram maiores escores do que as meninas nas dimensões Emocionalidade Negativa, Impulsividade, Atividade e Comportamento de Aproximação, enquanto as meninas tinham maiores escores que os meninos nas dimensões Medo, Cooperação e Humor Positivo. O Controle com Esforço foi estudado em crianças com riscos biológicos e psicossociais, nos quais as meninas mostraram maiores escores do que os meninos. Concluindo, houve diferenças nos traços de temperamento ao longo do desenvolvimento de crianças do nascimento até idade escolar associadas com a variável gênero.
Escala Diagnóstica Adaptativa Operacionalizada de Autorrelato - EDAO-AR: Evidências de Validade
Authors: Yoshida Elisa Medici Pizão
Published: December 2013

A Escala Diagnóstica Adaptativa Operacionalizada-Revisada (EDAO-R) fornece medida da eficácia adaptativa, entendida como o grau de sucesso obtido no enfrentamento das vicissitudes da vida. Sua avaliação baseia-se em material de entrevista clínica. O estudo teve por objetivo obter evidências de validade da versão de autorrelato da EDAO-R, ou EDAO-AR. Foram desenvolvidos itens para avaliar a adequação da adaptação de dois setores da personalidade: Afetivo-Relacional (A-R) e Produtividade (Pr). A amostra foi composta por 237 pacientes ambulatoriais e acompanhantes. Houve evidências de validade baseada na estrutura interna (consistência interna, análise fatorial, análise de agrupamentos) e validade baseada em variáveis externas (relação entre EDAO-AR e Escala de Avaliação de Sintomas-40/EAS-40). Os resultados apontaram boa consistência interna e três dimensões para ambos os setores: foco na situação problema, foco na relação interpessoal e foco no eu. Obteve-se, conforme esperado, correlações negativas entre a EDAO-AR e EAS-40. Foram feitas sugestões para a segunda versão da escala.
A Relação entre Teoria da Mente e Desenvolvimento Moral em Crianças Pré-Escolares
Authors: Loureiro Carolina Piazzarollo , Souza Debora de Hollanda
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a relação entre teoria da mente e julgamento moral (com base na intenção e com base no motivo) em uma amostra de crianças brasileiras de idade pré-escolar. Vinte e quatro crianças de 4 e 5 anos foram avaliadas por tarefas de teoria da mente e de julgamento moral. Embora a correlação entre os desempenhos nos dois tipos de tarefa não tenha se mostrado significativa, alguns efeitos importantes foram encontrados: os participantes tiveram mais facilidade para julgar os comportamentos propositais do que os acidentais; e as crianças de 5 anos tiveram um desempenho melhor do que as de 4 anos na tarefa de julgamento moral com base no motivo. Esses resultados sugerem que um julgamento moral mais sofisticado está associado a uma capacidade de diferenciar ações intencionais e não intencionais, bem como de identificar os motivos subjacentes à ação humana.