bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptic speciation: distinguishing serpentine affiliated sister species Navarretia paradoxiclara and N. paradoxinota from N. intertexta (Polemoniaceae)
Authors: JOHNSON LEIGH A. , GOWEN DAVID , JENSEN ANGELA B.
Published: April 2013

Two species endemic to California in the western United States, Navarretia paradoxiclara and N. paradoxinota, are here described. Both species occur on serpentine influenced soils and have been previously collected as N. intertexta, with which they are sympatric. However, they vary from N. intertexta subtly, yet consistently, in floral features and remarkably in surveyed DNA regions. Navarretia paradoxiclara and N. paradoxinota are sister species phylogenetically well separated from N. intertexta. With respect to each other, these new species are allopatric and diagnosable by differences in their corollas.
Equivalent Temperature Estimator Using Mean Radiant Temperature Sensor
Authors: Mola S. , Magini M. , Malvicino C.
Published: April 2013

Air conditioning in transport vehicles is becoming more and more a standard equipment rather than an optional one. Therefore, to assure better comfort conditions in rather non- homogeneous environments like a car cabin becomes a primary task. Since human thermal comfort is the result of the combined effect of several physical quantities, there is the need for new sensors to evaluate real comfort conditions in cars, so to have reliable feedback for a climate control. The present paper describes an equivalent temperature estimator which makes use of a mean radiant temperature sensor. A prototype car has been set up to perform on road and subjective tests.
Real-Time Data Capture Supports Process Modelling
Authors: Brooks J W
Published: April 2013

This paper considers the real-time measurement and logging of physical variables from the forging process to enhance modelling of that process. The measurement problem is acute since environmental conditions are not ideal. The logging system is described and an approach is presented for the generation of accurate flow stress data. Improvements upon earlier efforts are discussed in the light of experience with modelling packages. The importance of accurate data for materials and machinery are highlighted.
Sis Replacement on Live Processes
Authors: Timms Clive
Published: April 2013

The increasing demand for oil and gas before the global recession was driving up prices and the focus of oil and gas producers was to maintain and maximise production from every available facility. Older unreliable facilities were being rapidly upgraded including the replacement of Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS) such as emergency shutdown (ESD) systems, process shutdown (PSD) systems, Emergency Depressurisation (EDP) systems and fire and gas (F&G) systems.

Traditionally, the replacement of such safety critical systems is undertaken during a plant shutdown opportunity to ensure that process integrity is maintained and to facilitate comprehensive commissioning and validation without the presence of the process hazards. However, in the era of high oil and gas demand we saw more and more SIS replacement projects being undertaken whilst the process was still fully operational, even though this potentially compromised the integrity of a facility.

Oil and gas are finite resources and high prices will inevitably return. This paper summarises the findings of a number of IEC 61508 and IEC 61511 compliance audits undertaken for SIS replacement projects on live production facilities.
Data Driven Prognosis and Health Maintenance for Complex Industrial Processes with Production Optimization and Energy Savings
Authors: Wang A. P. , Wang H. , Guo L. , Zhang K. J.
Published: April 2013

Prognosis and Health Management (PHM) is an increasingly important area of research in the past few years. This is due to the requirement on economical health management for complex industrial processes that consists of a large number of units and equipment which operate together in order to fulfill their production requirement in terms of guaranteed product quality, improved production efficiency and reduced energy cost.

This paper reviews some aspects on PHM and discusses possible future directions. In particular, three new areas of research are pointed out, namely the stochastic distribution control based active PHM, the passivity analysis based PHM and the multiple data driven based models PHM. The key feature of these novel PHM strategies is that they can link the remaining useful life (RUL) estimation with decision variables such as control loop set points in the complex industrial processes. Such a link forms a group of models by which pro-active PHM strategies can be implemented in practice.
Measurement in Sports Biomechanics
Authors: Hood Simon , McBain Thomas , Portas Matt , Spears Iain
Published: April 2013

One of the major roles of a sports biomechanist or coach is to assess the movement patterns within sports performances. Movements can be analysed to enhance an individual's technique in terms of efficiency or to provide technical advantage. This paper aims to highlight the different measurement techniques available for the biomechanist to assess the movement characteristics of the technical and mechanical aspects of athletic performance.
PCIAS Subpixel Technology
Authors: Liu Jian Guo , Yan Hongshi , Morgan Gareth
Published: April 2013

PCIAS represents Phase Correlation based Image Analysis System. It is a professional C++ software package to deliver advanced subpixel technology that has been developed during the last several years supported by the SEAS DTC (System Engineering for Autonomous Systems Defence Technology Centre). This paper provides and overview of the PCIAS. After a brief introduction to the principles and algorithms, the paper illustrates, with examples, the major applications based on high precision sub-pixel disparity estimation.
Understanding the Effects of a Tourism Crisis
Authors: Ritchie Brent W. , Crotts John C. , Zehrer Anita , Volsky George T.
Published: April 2013

Tourism as one of the most economically important industries is also one of the most vulnerable to crises and disasters. This study is focused on measuring the short-term impact of a recent incidence, the 2010 BP Gulf oil spill, using a systems perspective. Drawing from two datasets measuring the performance of the hotel and vacation rental industries, a major part of the accommodation industry, this study reveals the complex changes that occurred across a region that experienced this man-made disaster. The data clearly shows the complexity of the impact, generating both winners and losers on an industry and geographic basis. In addition, the results underscore the difficulties in determining damages at the macro level that in this case has resulted to date in US$13.5 billion of out of court settlements paid by BP to settle business owner claims. Practical implications and future research avenues are highlighted including the availability of secondary data sources.
Cultural Variation in the Focus on Goals Versus Processes of Actions
Authors: Miyamoto Yuri , Knoepfler Christopher A. , Ishii Keiko , Ji Li-Jun
Published: March 2013

Everyday actions (e.g., riding a bike) can be described in ways that emphasize either the goals of the action by adapting a higher level identification (e.g., getting exercise) or the processes of the action by adapting a lower level identification (e.g., pedaling). In Studies 1 and 2, we demonstrate cultural differences in focusing on the process or goal of actions at the individual level: Americans are more likely than Japanese to focus on the goal (rather than the process) of actions. Study 3 recruited Chinese participants in addition to American and Japanese participants and found that cultural differences in action identification are partly explained by cultural differences in self-consistency. Study 4 further showed cultural differences at the collective level: American media presents more goal-oriented information and less process-oriented information than does Japanese media. These findings highlight the role of culture in shaping how people attend to different aspects of actions.
“Honor Your Father and Mother” or “Honor Your Mother and Father?”: A Case Study in Creole Bible Translation
Authors: Winedt Marlon
Published: April 2013

We recognize also that there are many languages for which gender distinction in grammatical forms is not an issue, as the same form serves for both masculine and feminine. However, this feature of language does not necessarily mean that those language groups do not discriminate on the basis of gender in [the] other areas.
The emergence of entrepreneurial action: At the crossroads between institutional logics and individual life-orientation
Authors: Spedale Simona , Watson Tony J.
Published: April 2013

This article builds upon a growing body of research calling for a more contextual approach to entrepreneurship studies. It combines theoretical resources from Joas’s theory of creative action with institutional logics thinking. A model of the emergence of entrepreneurial action is developed as an outcome of a continuous dialogue between theoretical and empirical work. Entrepreneurial action is shown as emerging at the crossroads between tensions at the general level of institutional logics and tensions at the level of an individual’s life-orientation. Two main insights are offered for future theoretical and empirical developments. First, that it is possible to move beyond the artificial separation of ‘context’ and ‘individual’ in entrepreneurship studies to investigate the complex interweaving of individual, organisational and societal levels that comprises entrepreneurial activity. Second, the concept of entrepreneurial action has a relevance far beyond the creation of new business ventures and activities engaged in by owner-managers.
Emphasizing the ‘Complex’ in the ‘Immigration Industrial Complex’
Authors: Trujillo-Pagán Nicole
Published: April 2013

This article contributes to scholarship that conceptualizes an ‘immigration industrial complex’, but argues against assertions that the complex represents a ‘confluence of interests’ or an unintended consequence of immigration policy enforcement. Instead, law regulates immigration and constructs ‘illegality’ in the interests of global (US) capital. This analysis has two implications. First, private government contractors are only one segment within a broader complex. Second, enforcement through policing, detention, and deportation may not appear to serve the short-term interests of businesses that depend on undocumented workers, but these practices reflect state investment in the expansion and accumulation of capital. The article refocuses attention toward our collective ‘race to the bottom’.
A discursive psychology critique of semantic verbal fluency assessment and its interpretation
Authors: Muskett Tom , Body Richard , Perkins Mick
Published: April 2013

Semantic verbal fluency (SVF), a psychological assessment method used in experimental research and clinical practice, requires participants to produce as many words as possible from a given superordinate category (e.g., “animals,” “vehicles”). Features of responses, such as the prototypicality and ordering of items, are then interpreted as if revealing details about the organisation—or, in instances of ostensibly atypical performance, disorganisation—of participants’ underlying conceptual and/or semantic systems. In this paper, we draw upon perspectives from Discursive Psychology, particularly the work of Derek Edwards (e.g., Edwards, 1997), to argue against this position. Following critical discussion of SVF’s strongly cognitivist theoretical foundations, we present analyses of social interactions across various contexts, including the real-life administration of the paradigm with a child with autism, to suggest that performance is unavoidably socially mediated rather than solely internally driven. Our arguments challenge SVF’s validity and its role in the description of “cognitive disorder.”
Rituximab treatment in lupus nephritis – where do we stand?
Authors: Gunnarsson I , Jonsdottir T
Published: April 2013

Renal involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a severe disease manifestation in which novel therapeutic strategies are needed, especially in non-responding patients or patients who relapse after conventional treatment. Rituximab has been used as off-label treatment for lupus nephritis (LN) during the last decade, and to date reports on the clinical effects on more than 400 patients, including the randomized controlled LUNAR study population, have been published. Despite promising results obtained from observational studies and registries, with complete or partial renal response after 6–12 months in 67–77% of patients, the LUNAR trial failed to attain the primary endpoint and rituximab is today unlikely to be approved as treatment for LN. Rituximab has mainly been used as induction therapy in combination with standard of care but the optimal treatment protocol is still to be determined. From observational studies, rituximab has been shown to be efficient in both proliferative and membranous LN, and histopathological studies have demonstrated improvement in renal activity. Adverse events mainly include infusion reactions and infections. Although not approved for the treatment of LN, the currently available data support that rituximab may be used in severe, refractory cases of LN.
Belimumab for systemic lupus erythematosus: a practice-based view
Authors: Parodis I , Axelsson M , Gunnarsson I
Published: April 2013

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disorder with multiple organ involvement. B-lymphocyte activity plays a pivotal role in the development and course of the disease. A newly developed agent called belimumab has recently been approved to treat active, autoantibody positive SLE as an add-on to standard therapy. Specifically binding to soluble B-lymphocyte stimulator protein, it reduces the formation of immunoglobulins and autoantibodies. Its effects have been studied in one phase II and two phase III clinical trials, showing sustained improvement across various clinical indicators and no evidence of increased risk of serious adverse events. Further post-hoc analyses indicate that treatment with belimumab lowers levels of autoimmune antibodies, normalizes low complement and improves SLE activity predominantly in musculoskeletal and mucocutaneous organ domains. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of belimumab for patients with severe lupus nephritis and with active involvement of the central nervous system. The introduction of belimumab as the first biological drug approved for the management of SLE likely heralds a surge in the development and use of selectively addressed agents for this heterogeneous and complex disease.
Infliximab-induced discoid lupus erythematosus
Authors: Cemil BC , Atas H , Canpolat F , Akca Y , Sasmaz R
Published: April 2013

Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) immunotherapy is currently used in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and Crohn’s disease. Infliximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that binds to transmembrane-bound and soluble TNF-α. Previously, a discoid lupus erythematosus-like eruption linked to its use was rarely reported in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. We present a case of rheumatoid arthritis which developed such an eruption after treatment with infliximab. The lesions resolved after the discontinuation of infliximab. In the present case, the clinical, serological and immunohistochemical features of our patient are discussed with the literature.
Is there a cure for systemic lupus erythematosus?
Authors: Rosario C , Seguro L , Vasconcelos C , Shoenfeld Y
Published: April 2013

The morbidity and mortality of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a subject of intense relevance in the literature, yet descriptions of prolonged and sustained remissions or even cure are barely reported.

In recent decades the life expectancy in SLE patients has improved, but the quality of life seems to be poor compared with other chronic diseases and with the general population.

The immunopathogenesis of SLE is complex and not fully understood, so patients have been treated with nonspecific immunosuppressive therapies. But in recent years, because of advances in basic science, targeted therapies have been developed.

Despite the progress made in treating SLE, currently a cure in SLE seems to be a myth. SLE it seems, remains incurable. A specific treatment has not emerged to directly abrogate a disease-specific autoimmune response. Relapsing manifestations and complications of treatment still remain important markers of morbidity.
The sustainability of the Youth Olympic Games: Stakeholder networks and institutional perspectives
Authors: Parent Milena M , Kristiansen Elsa , Skille Eivind Å , Hanstad Dag Vidar
Published: April 2013

This paper explored the Youth Olympic Games’ (YOG) potential sustainability (survival and success) through an analysis of how actors exert various forms of pressure on the YOG. Given the impact of the Olympic Games and of youth on society, it becomes important to study the newest member of the Olympic Family. Combining stakeholder, network and institutional literatures, a case study of the first Winter YOG in Innsbruck (Austria) was built by means of observations and interviews. The stakeholder network analysis revealed three central stakeholders for the YOG’s sustainability: the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the media (press and broadcast), and the athletes’ parents. The institutional context was challenged by stakeholders’ changing levels of relative saliency, and notably by the parents’ emerging saliency. Practically speaking, YOG managers need to be diplomats in balancing pressures originating from the international (IOC) and local (parents) institutional contexts.
Effects of Informational Sessions on Anxiety Precardiovascular Procedure
Authors: Gavigan Anne , Cain Carolyn , Carroll Diane L.
Published: April 2013

To measure the effect of an informational video intervention (IVI) compared to standard care (SC) preparation on anxiety and satisfaction prior to percutaneous cardiovascular procedure (PCVP). A quasi-experimental, randomized, prepost design was used to measure the effect of IVI, provided pre-PCVP, compared with SC only preparation on admission anxiety compared with post the IVI and SC preparation. There were 113 males/72 females, mean age of 61.8 years, assigned to IVI ( n = 94) or SC group ( n = 91). After the preparatory information session, there was no difference between groups on state anxiety (37.6 ± 11.7 vs. 36.3 ± 10.7; z = –.500, p = .617). There was a significant improvement in satisfaction in IVI group (54.23 ± 5.5 vs. 50.7 ± 6.6 ( z = −2.9, p = .003). IVI session improved satisfaction with preparation. Viewing the IVI within hours of a PCVP did not reduce measurable anxiety. Further research may reveal a more ideal viewing time.
Predicting Occupational Congruence
Authors: Tziner Aharon , Oren Lior , Caduri Ariel
Published: April 2013

This study compared the congruence between chosen occupation and vocational personality with the congruence between chosen occupation and parent’s occupation, investigating the effects of regulatory focus, career self-efficacy, and parental support. Gender differences were also explored. A sample of 260 undergraduate students completed questionnaires measuring their own and their parent’s vocational personality type, the quality of the parent–child relationship, and their own career self-efficacy and regulatory focus. Vocational congruence was calculated by C-index. The results show that regulatory focus of promotion and both low and high self-efficacy were related to a significantly higher level of congruence between chosen occupation and vocational personality than between chosen occupation and parent’s occupation. However, none of the variables was found to explain the level of congruence between vocational personality and chosen occupation, and no relationship was found between vocational congruence and satisfaction with the chosen profession. The findings indicate the importance of vocational inclinations over parental influence and personality traits in occupational choice. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
A virtual prototype of a constrained extensible crank mechanism: Dynamic simulation and design
Authors: Dupac Mihai
Published: April 2013

Dynamic response of mechanical systems containing rigid links connected by joints is affected by the velocity and mass of the systems components as well as by the presence of clearance or impact between components. Accurate simulations of such systems are increasingly important due to their wide application in engine design, knitting machinery or single and dual-arm robotic systems, as well as for their initial and optimised design. A virtual prototype of a newly developed extensible crank mechanism (applied to the design development of a bicycle crank) is presented in this article and its dynamical behaviour is analysed. The equations of motion of the extensible crank, constrained to either a circular or an elliptical path, are considered. Accurate simulation of the constrained extensible crank mechanism explores its performance and behaviour under the combined effect of different parameters such as clearance and impact. A three-dimensional finite element model is used to study the flexural behaviour of the extensible crank under the maximal loads that causes its motion.
Efficacy of Early Physical Therapy in Severe Bell’s Palsy
Authors: Nicastri Maria , Mancini Patrizia , De Seta Daniele , Bertoli GianAntonio , Prosperini Luca , Toni Danilo , Inghilleri Maurizio , Filipo Roberto
Published: April 2013

Background. Bell’s palsy (BP) is the most frequent form of peripheral palsy of the facial nerve. Prognosis for recovery is good for most patients; in the remaining cases, different grades of residual impairment persist. Physical therapy, in association with drug administration, aims to improve outcomes. Objective. To assess the efficacy of early physical therapy in association with standard drug administration versus pharmacological therapy only, in terms of time to maximum gains and grade of recovery of function, and to examine who will most benefit from rehabilitation. Methods. From June 2008 to May 2010, 232 individuals were evaluated. The 87 patients meeting the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned to the experimental group (prednisone and valacyclovir plus physical therapy, n = 39) or the control group (pharmacological therapy, n = 48) within 10 days of onset. Intention-to-treat analyses were done. Results. The physical therapy had a significant effect on grade ( P = .038) and time ( P = .044) to recovery only in patients presenting with severe facial palsy (House-Brackmann [HB] grade V/VI). No significant differences were found between the study and control groups for outcome of synkinesis. Conclusion. Physical therapy appears to be effective only in the more severe BP (baseline HB grade V/VI), whereas less severe BP (baseline HB grade IV) results in complete spontaneous recovery, regardless of physical therapy.
Impact of Implementing Mental Health Screening by Mail With a Primary Care Management Model
Authors: Hunter Lindsay R. , Lynch Brian A.
Published: April 2013

Background: Early recognition and treatment of social and emotional disorders in children is significant for school preparation. These disorders are frequently underdetected without the use of standardized screening instruments. The purpose of our study is to describe the implementation of the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social–Emotional (ASQ:SE) in primary care practice by mail when children are 30 months old. Methods: In this 4-month study, parents of all 30-month-old children who receive primary care at our study site were mailed the ASQ:SE. In children who did not pass screening or received a call from a registered nurse for parental concerns documented on the questionnaire, short-term clinical outcomes were obtained from the electronic medical record. During the last month of the study, the demographics variables of race and insurance type were analyzed for an association with questionnaire completion by mail. Results: Of the 870 families mailed 30-month ASQ:SE screens, 507 (58.3%) were returned by mail. Out of the children with returned screens, 38 (7.5%) of parents were contacted for either elevated scores or concerning comments and 6 (1.2%) were referred to Early Intervention. Parents of children with government insurance returned the ASQ:SE questionnaire 34.2% (13/38) of the time compared with 65.5% (76/116) of those with private insurance ( P < .001). Conclusion: Our results indicate that mental health screening can be effectively managed in primary care practice by a registered nurse using a follow-up protocol. Mailing the ASQ:SE is likely not an effective way to comprehensively screen most primary care populations.
Parallel evolution of senescence in annual fishes in response to extrinsic mortality
Authors: Terzibasi Tozzini Eva , Dorn Alexander , Ng’oma Enoch , Polačik Matej , Blažek Radim , Reichwald Kathrin , Petzold Andreas , Watters Brian , Reichard Martin , Cellerino Alessandro
Published: April 2013

Background

Early evolutionary theories of aging predict that populations which experience low extrinsic mortality evolve a retarded onset of senescence. Experimental support for this theory in vertebrates is scarce, in part for the difficulty of quantifying extrinsic mortality and its condition- and density-dependent components that –when considered- can lead to predictions markedly different to those of the “classical” theories. Here, we study annual fish of the genus Nothobranchius whose maximum lifespan is dictated by the duration of the water bodies they inhabit. Different populations of annual fish do not experience different strengths of extrinsic mortality throughout their life span, but are subject to differential timing (and predictability) of a sudden habitat cessation. In this respect, our study allows testing how aging evolves in natural environments when populations vary in the prospect of survival, but condition-dependent survival has a limited effect. We use 10 Nothobranchius populations from seasonal pools that differ in their duration to test how this parameter affects longevity and aging in two independent clades of these annual fishes.

Results

We found that replicated populations from a dry region showed markedly shorter captive lifespan than populations from a humid region. Shorter lifespan correlated with accelerated accumulation of lipofuscin (an established age marker) in both clades. Analysis of wild individuals confirmed that fish from drier habitats accumulate lipofuscin faster also under natural conditions. This indicates faster physiological deterioration in shorter-lived populations.

Conclusions

Our data provide a strong quantitative example of how extrinsic mortality can shape evolution of senescence in a vertebrate clade. Nothobranchius is emerging as a genomic model species. The characterization of pairs of closely related species with different longevities should provide a powerful paradigm for the identification of genetic variations responsible for evolution of senescence in natural populations.
Prokaryote-expressed M2e protein improves H9N2 influenza vaccine efficacy and protection against lethal influenza a virus in mice
Authors: Kim Eun-Ha , Lee Jun-Han , Pascua Philippe Noriel Q , Song Min-Suk , Baek Yun-Hee , Kwon Hyeok-il , Park Su-Jin , Lim Gyo-Jin , Decano Arun , Chowdhury Mohammed YE , Seo Su-Kyung , Song Man Ki , Kim Chul-Joong , Choi Young-Ki
Published: April 2013

Background

Influenza vaccines are prepared annually based on global epidemiological surveillance data. However, since there is no method by which to predict the influenza strain that will cause the next pandemic, the demand to develop new vaccination strategies with broad cross-reactivity against influenza viruses are clearly important. The ectodomain of the influenza M2 protein (M2e) is an attractive target for developing a vaccine with broad cross-reactivity. For these reasons, we investigated the efficacy of an inactivated H9N2 virus vaccine (a-H9N2) mixed with M2e (1xM2e or 4xM2e) proteins expressed inEscherichia coli, which contains the consensus of sequence the extracellular domain of matrix 2 (M2e) of A/chicken/Vietnam/27262/09 (H5N1) avian influenza virus, and investigated its humoral immune response and cross-protection against influenza A viruses.

Results

Mice were intramuscularly immunized with a-H9N2, 1xM2e alone, 4xM2e alone, a-H9N2/1xM2e, or a-H9N2/4xM2e. Three weeks post-vaccination, mice were challenged with lethal homologous (A/ chicken /Korea/ma163/04, H9N2) or heterosubtypic virus (A/Philippines/2/82, H3N2 and A/aquatic bird/Korea/maW81/05, H5N2). Our studies demonstrate that the survival of mice immunized with a-H9N2/1xM2e or with a-H9N2/4xM2e (100% survival) was significantly higher than that of mouse-adapted H9N2 virus-infected mice vaccinated with 1xM2e alone or with 4xM2e alone (0% survival). We also evaluated the protective efficacy of the M2e + vaccine against infection with mouse-adapted H5N2 influenza virus. Protection from death in the control group (0% survival) was similar to that of the 1×M2e alone and 4xM2e alone-vaccinated groups (0% survival). Only 40% of mice vaccinated with vaccine alone survived challenge with H5N2, while the a-H9N2/1×M2e and a-H9N2/4×M2e groups showed 80% and 100% survival following mouse-adapted H5N2 challenge, respectively. We also examined cross-protection against human H3N2 virus and found that the a-H9N2/1×M2e group displayed partial cross-protection against H3N2 (40% survival), whereas vaccine alone, 1×M2e alone, 4×M2e alone, or H9N2/1×M2e groups showed incomplete protection (0% survival) in response to challenge with a lethal dose of human H3N2 virus.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggest that prokaryote-expressed M2e protein improved inactivated H9N2 virus vaccine efficacy and achieved cross-protection against lethal influenza A virus infection in mice.
Endobronchial endometriosis presenting as central-type lung cancer: a case report
Authors: Yu Juan-Han , Lin Xu-Yong , Wang Liang , Liu Yang , Fan Chui-Feng , Zhang Yong , Wang En-Hua
Published: April 2013

A 45-year-old female patient was referred to our hospital for complaining of dyspnea and coughing in the past four months. The computed tomography scanning demonstrated a central lesion in the upper lobe of the left lung close to the hilar, and the subsequent bronchoscopy revealed a polypoid lesion of the distal of the left main bronchus. This patient was diagnosed clinically as “possibly central-type lung cancer”. However, the pathologic result of the surgically excised polypoid lesion was endobronchial endometriosis.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1077439085928525
Deposition of suspended fine particulate matter in a library
Authors: Smolík Jiří , Mašková Ludmila , Zíková Naděžda , Ondráčková Lucie , Ondráček Jakub
Published: April 2013

To analyse deposition of fine particulate matter (PM) on book surfaces we put twelve bunches of cellulose filters on a free shelf of the National Library in Prague, exposed them for three, six, nine, and twelve months to indoor air and analysed them after each period by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Ion Chromatography (IC). Results showed that fine particles were deposited predominantly on the surface of the top filter but partly also on the surfaces of inner filters. It indicates fine particles penetrated between filters. The penetration and deposition of particles was also modelled as Brownian diffusion between two parallel filters. The model prediction demonstrated that fine particles penetrate between filters, with the depth of penetration limited by parallel diffusional deposition on filter surfaces. This is in qualitative agreement with SEM and IC investigations. The results show that beside the top part fine PM can deposit onto all available surfaces of books.
Ly6 family proteins in neutrophil biology
Authors: Lee Pui Y , Wang Jun-Xia , Parisini Emilio , Dascher Christopher C , Nigrovic Peter A
Published: March 2013

The murine Ly6 complex was identified 35 years ago using antisera to lymphocytes. With advances in mAb development, molecular cloning, and genome sequencing, >20 structurally related genes have been identified within this complex on chromosome 15. All members of the Ly6 family and their human homologues share the highly conserved LU domain and most also possess a GPI anchor. Interestingly, many Ly6 proteins are expressed in a lineage-specific fashion, and their expression often correlates with stages of differentiation. As a result, Ly6 proteins are frequently used as surface markers for leukocyte subset identification and targets for antibody-mediated depletion. Murine neutrophils display prominent surface expression of several Ly6 proteins, including Ly6B, Ly6C, and Ly6G. Although the physiology of most Ly6 proteins is not well understood, a role in neutrophil functions, such as migration, is recognized increasingly. In this review, we will provide an overview of the Ly6 complex and discuss, in detail, the specific Ly6 proteins implicated in neutrophil biology.
It is time to change our cultural context. Invited commentary on … Evaluation of England's Time to Change programme
Authors: Link Bruce G.
Published: April 2013

The Time to Change campaign in England has attempted to change attitudes to mental illness at population level. The concept of cultural context is introduced to look at how mental illness functions in society and whether any change in the current context is feasible.
Quantum Measurement Theory in Gravitational-Wave Detectors
Authors: Danilishin Stefan L. , Khalili Farid Ya.
Published: April 2013

The fast progress in improving the sensitivity of the gravitational-wave detectors, we all have witnessed in the recent years, has propelled the scientific community to the point at which quantum behavior of such immense measurement devices as kilometer-long interferometers starts to matter. The time when their sensitivity will be mainly limited by the quantum noise of light is around the corner, and finding ways to reduce it will become a necessity. Therefore, the primary goal we pursued in this review was to familiarize a broad spectrum of readers with the theory of quantum measurements in the very form it finds application in the area of gravitational-wave detection. We focus on how quantum noise arises in gravitational-wave interferometers and what limitations it imposes on the achievable sensitivity. We start from the very basic concepts and gradually advance to the general linear quantum measurement theory and its application to the calculation of quantum noise in the contemporary and planned interferometric detectors of gravitational radiation of the first and second generation. Special attention is paid to the concept of the Standard Quantum Limit and the methods of its surmounting.
Evaluating Second-Line Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes: Focus on Secondary Effects of GLP-1 Agonists and DPP-4 Inhibitors
Authors: Boland Cassie L , DeGeeter Michelle , Nuzum Donald S , Tzefos Maria
Published: April 2013

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the controversy surrounding selection of second-line type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) therapy by reviewing available data regarding secondary effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1) agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, which include low hypoglycemia risk, weight loss, and cardiovascular (CV) and β-cell function benefits.

DATA SOURCES

A MEDLINE search (1966–March 2013) was conducted using the following key terms: β-cell protection, blood pressure, DPP-4 inhibitors, exena tide, exenatide extended-release, GLP-1 agonists, hypoglycemia, lina glip tin, lipid, liraglutide, pancreatitis, saxagliptin, sitagliptin, and type 2 diabetes.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION

Identified articles published in English were evaluated for inclusion, with priority given to randomized controlled trials in humans receiving incretin monotherapy or incretin combination therapy with metformin. References identified in these articles were reviewed for additional trials.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Most patients with T2DM use combination therapy; however, determination of the second-line agent that is most appropriate is debatable. Prior to the use of incretin therapies, traditional second-line agents included sulfonylureas, thiazolidinediones, and basal insulin, all of which demonstrate undesirable adverse effects. In addition to improving glycemic control, incretin therapies have demonstrated benefits concerning hypoglycemic risk and weight loss in addition to potential improvements in CV risk factors and β-cell function. While there are risks associated with using incretins, most patients with T2DM are good candidates for incretins and could benefit from their potential secondary effects. Cost remains a barrier to initiating these agents.

CONCLUSIONS

Demonstrated secondary benefits in addition to efficacy may make GLP-1 agonists and DPP-4 inhibitors a more favorable option than other second-line T2DM therapies.
High-Mobility Group Box-1 Protein and β-Amyloid Oligomers Promote Neuronal Differentiation of Adult Hippocampal Neural Progenitors via Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products/Nuclear Factor-κB Axis: Relevance for Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Meneghini Vasco , Bortolotto Valeria , Francese Maria Teresa , Dellarole Anna , Carraro Lorenzo , Terzieva Slavica , Grilli Mariagrazia
Published: April 2013

Dysregulated hippocampal neurogenesis has been associated with neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), in which it may potentially represent an auto-reparatory mechanism that could counteract neuronal loss and cognitive impairment. We evaluated hippocampal neurogenesis in TgCRND8 mice and reported that, at 32 weeks of age, corresponding to an advanced AD-like neuropathology stage, increased numbers of proliferating cells, doublecortin-expressing progenitors/neuroblasts, and early postmitotic calretinin-expressing neurons were present compared with wild-type (WT) littermates. When hippocampal neural progenitor cells (NPCs) were isolated from TgCRND8 mice, we demonstrated that (1) their neurogenic potential was higher compared with WT NPCs; (2) medium conditioned by TgCRND8 NPC promoted neuronal differentiation of WT NPCs; and (3) the proneurogenic effect of TgCRND8-conditioned medium was counteracted by blockade of the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) axis. Furthermore, we showed that β-amyloid 1–42 (Aβ1–42) oligomers, but not monomers and fibrils, and the alarmin high-mobility group box-1 protein (HMGB-1) could promote neuronal differentiation of NPCs via activation of the RAGE/NF-κB axis. Altogether, these data suggest that, in AD brain, an endogenous proneurogenic response could be potentially triggered and involve signals (Aβ1–42oligomers and HMGB-1) and pathways (RAGE/NF-κB activation) that also contribute to neuroinflammation/neurotoxicity. A more detailed analysis confirmed no significant increase of new mature neurons in hippocampi of TgCRND8 compared with WT mice, suggesting reduced survival and/or integration of newborn neurons. Therapeutic strategies in AD should ideally combine the ability of sustaining hippocampal neurogenesis as well as of counteracting an hostile brain microenvironment so to promote survival of vulnerable cell populations, including adult generated neurons.
Ambient Temperature Affects the Temperature Threshold for TRPM8 Activation through Interaction of Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-Bisphosphate
Authors: Fujita Fumitaka , Uchida Kunitoshi , Takaishi Masayuki , Sokabe Takaaki , Tominaga Makoto
Published: April 2013

Cold sensation is an important and fundamental sense for animals and it is known to be affected by ambient temperature. Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 8 (TRPM8), a nonselective cation channel expressed in a subset of peripheral afferent fibers, acts as a cold sensor, having an activation threshold of ∼28°C. Although the cold temperature threshold of TRPM8 is affected by menthol or pH, ambient temperature has not been reported to affect it. Because the cold temperature threshold was thought to be unchanged by alterations in ambient temperature, the relativity of temperature sensing in different ambient temperatures could not be understood at the level of molecular function of thermosensitive TRP channels. Here, we show that ambient temperature changed the temperature threshold for activation of human and rat TRPM8 in a heterologous expression system and cold responses in mouse DRG neurons. Moreover, reducing the level of cellular phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) attenuated changes in the cold temperature threshold after alterations in ambient temperature. A single amino acid mutation at position 1008 in the C terminus of TRPM8 (arginine to glutamine) also attenuated changes in the cold temperature threshold induced by ambient temperature. These findings suggest that ambient temperature does affect the temperature threshold for TRPM8 activation through interaction of PIP2.
Oficinas de estimulação cognitiva adaptadas para idosos analfabetos com transtorno cognitivo leve
Authors: Santos Izabel Borges dos , Gomes Lucy , Matos Neuza Moreira de , Vale Maria Sueli do , Santos Fernando Borges dos , Cardenas Carmen Jansen , Alves Vicente Paulo
Published: April 2013

Oficinas de estimulação cognitiva para idosos analfabetos com transtorno cognitivo leve é um tema pouco pesquisado. Objetivou-se verificar a autopercepção da memória em idosos analfabetos com transtorno cognitivo leve, antes e após oficinas de estimulação cognitiva, adaptadas para analfabetos. Trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, realizada na Unidade de Saúde de Taguatinga-DF, envolvendo 63 idosos: 22 no Grupo Experimental (GE), com 10 oficinas; 21 no Grupo Controle 1 (GC1), com 10 palestras; e 20 no Grupo Controle 2 (GC2), sem intervenção. Foram realizadas entrevistas semiestruturadas antes e após intervenções, perguntando-se sobre memória. Aos GE e GC1 foram oferecidas atividades semanais de duas horas. A idade média foi 72,8 anos, 92% do sexo feminino. Na pré-intervenção, 82% haviam piorado memória no último ano. Na pós-intervenção, GC1 e GC2 mantiveram alterações da memória, enquanto GE melhorou cognição. Conclui-se que as oficinas e palestras proporcionaram melhora na funcionalidade e socialização/integração.
Consumo e custo de recursos materiais em unidades pediátricas de terapia intensiva e semi-intensiva
Authors: Zuliani Larissa Lenotti , Jericó Marli de Carvalho , Castro Liliana Cristina de , Soler Zaida Aurora Sperli Geraldes
Published: April 2013

O gerenciamento de custos de materiais de consumo hospitalar é um tema atual em pesquisa, principalmente em unidades de saúde especializadas. Os enfermeiros são destacados como os principais gestores do consumo e custo de materiais hospitalares. Neste estudo, objetivou-se caracterizar unidades pediátricas semi-intensivas e intensivas de um hospital de ensino e verificar o consumo e os custos de materiais utilizados na assistência a pacientes internados nessas unidades. Estudo descritivo, exploratório, retrospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa; os dados foram obtidos do Sistema de Informação Hospitalar; analisados com base na classificação ABC. O gasto médio foi semelhante entre as UTIs cardiológica e neonatal e menor nas UTI e semi-intensiva pediátricas; houve variação significativa de consumo mensal de materiais; os materiais de maior custo tiveram mais impacto no orçamento das unidades estudadas. Os dados obtidos revelaram a importância do uso de método sistêmico de análise de consumo e gastos de materiais em unidades pediátricas e subsidiam ações administrativas de economia.
Produção do conhecimento sobre promoção da saúde e prática da enfermeira na Atenção Primária
Authors: Mascarenhas Nildo Batista , Melo Cristina Maria Meira de , Fagundes Norma Carapiá
Published: April 2013

Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa que analisa a produção científica nacional sobre a promoção da saúde e a prática da enfermeira no campo da atenção primária. Com o desenvolvimento do estudo, verificou-se que a discussão deste tema é pouco explorada no campo da Enfermagem e que a promoção da saúde ainda é compreendida como sinônimo da educação em saúde e/ou da prevenção de doenças. Conclui-se que a educação em saúde é uma estratégia essencial para o alcance da promoção da saúde e que uma não se resume à outra. Além disso, é necessário que as enfermeiras reconheçam a promoção da saúde como um campo de práxis capaz de transformar a realidade social e sua própria prática.
Low cost driver device for microclimate maintenance in the pre-milking of dairy cattle
Authors: Silva Irenilson M. da , Pandorfi Héliton , Vasconcelos Ângelo J. S. de , Laurenti Renato , Guiselini Cristiane
Published: April 2013

Due to the importance of the environment on animal production and thus environmental control, the study aims to build a system for monitoring and control the meteorological variables, temperature and relative humidity, low cost, which can be associated with an evaporative cooling system (ECS). The system development included all the stages of assembly, test and laboratory calibration, and later the validation of the equipment carried in the field. The validation step showed results which allowed concluding that the system can be safely used in the monitoring of these variables. The controller was efficient in management of the microclimate in the waiting corral and allowed the maintenance of the air temperature within the comfort range for dairy cattle in pre-milking with averaged 25.09 ºC during the afternoon. The equipment showed the lower cost (R$ 325.76) when compared to other middle market (R$ 450.00).
França e Brasil: realidades distintas da proteção social, entrelaçadas no fluxo da história
Authors: Behring Elaine Rossetti
Published: April 2013

Este artigo analisa a destinação de recursos dos orçamentos nacionais do Brasil e da França no ano de 2010, com destaque para a seguridade social, mostrando tendências da alocação do fundo público, o impacto da dinâmica da dívida pública e da financeirização no conjunto das despesas e, sobretudo, as semelhanças e diferenças entre as experiências e condições históricas distintas de um país capitalista periférico e outro central, mas que se entrelaçam na totalidade.
Atención Primaria de Salud en Argentina: proliferación desordenada y modelos en conflicto
Authors: Bertolotto Analía , Fuks Ana , Rovere Mario
Published: April 2013

Una reconstrucción del campo de la salud en Argentina ha permitido verificar que, bajo la denominación genérica de la Atención Primaria de Salud, se han cobijado un conjunto de dispositivos de atención provenientes de diferentes tradiciones de la Salud Pública, entretejidas a su vez por los disímiles modelos políticos que se sucedieron en Argentina antes y después de 1978. El plan de la presente investigación previó una fase de indagación con referentes históricos de la Atención Primaria de Salud y una de trabajo con responsables de los procesos de formación de posgrados que participaron en el proceso de construcción de conocimiento y en la especulación sobre la aplicación de los resultados.