bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age differences in the impact of forced swimming test on serotonin transporter levels in lateral septum and dorsal raphe
Authors: Ulloa Rosa-Elena , Díaz-Valderrama Aliyeri , Herrera-Pérez Jaime , León-Olea Martha , Martínez-Mota Lucía
Published: February 2014

Background

Forced swimming test (FST) is an animal model which evaluates behavioral despair and the effect of antidepressants such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; the FST modifies the expression of some receptors related to antidepressant response, but it is not known whether serotonin transporter (SERT), their main target, is affected by this test in animals of different ages. Antidepressant response has shown age-dependent variations which could be associated with SERT expression. The aim of the present study was to analyze changes in the SERT immunoreactivity (SERT-IR) in dorsal raphe and lateral septum of male rats from different age groups with or without behavioral despair induced by their exposure to the FST, since these two structures are related to the expression of this behavior.

Methods

Prepubertal (24 PN), pubertal (40 PN), young adult (3–5 months) and middle-aged (12 months) male rats were assigned to a control group (non-FST) or depressed group (FST, two sessions separated by 24 h). Changes in SERT-IR in dorsal raphe and lateral septum were determined with immunofluorescence.

Results

Pubertal and middle-aged rats showed higher levels of immobility behavior compared to prepubertal rats on the FST. SERT-IR showed an age-dependent increase followed by a moderate decrease in middle-aged rats in both structures; a decreased in SERT-IR in lateral septum and dorsal raphe of pubertal rats was observed after the FST.

Conclusions

Age differences were observed in the SERT-IR of structures related to behavioral despair; SERT expression was modified by the FST in lateral septum and dorsal raphe of pubertal rats.
Functional characterization of the N-terminal and C-terminal domains of a sesame group II phytocystatin
Authors: Cheng Mei-Ling , Tzen Jason T C , Shyu Douglas J H , Chou Wing-Ming
Published: February 2014

Background

Phytocystatins are natural inhibitors of cysteine protease, and may regulate endo- or exo-genous proteolytic activities in plants. They are classified into Group I and II differing by the presence of C-terminal extension of Group II. A cDNA fragment encoding a Group II phytosystatin, SiCYS was previously obtained from sesame seeds.

Results

SiCYS as well as its two structural domains, N-terminal and C-terminal domains (SiCYS-N and SiCYS-C), was expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant SiCYS and SiCYS-N showed inhibitory activity against papain. The K i values of SiCYS and SiCYS-N were ~1.9 ×10-8 M and ~7.9 ×10-8 M, respectively. All the three recombinants possessed comparable ability to inhibit spore germination of Trichoderma reesei, Aspergillus sydowii, and Helminthosporium sesamum. Similar protein profile including proteases in germinating seeds was found in proteins purified by the SiCYS, SiCYS-N or SiCYS-C coupling affinity column.

Conclusion

SiCYS exhibited more effective papain-inhibitory activity than SiCYS-N; while SiCYS-C had almost no inhibitory activity. All displayed similar antifungal activities indicating that there is no correlation between antifungal and papain-inhibitory activities. Structural and sequence analyses suggest that the C-terminal domain of SiCYS may be originated from gene duplication to enhance its inhibitory activity.
Development of a sustainable process for the production of polymer grade lactic acid
Authors: Bapat Susmit S , Aichele Clint P , High Karen A
Published: February 2014

Lactic acid is a commonly occurring substance in nature, ranging from existence in micro-organisms to the human body. Traditionally, lactic acid has applications in industries such as food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and textiles. In this work, a sustainable process for the production of polymer grade lactic acid (99 wt. % on dry basis) from crude lactic acid was simulated. The simulation was performed using Aspen Plus® version 8.2. The thermodynamic model used for the process was NRTL – Hayden O’Connell due to the polar nature and non-ideal behavior of the species involved. The process was carried out in three stages. First, crude lactic acid was obtained by reacting calcium lactate with sulfuric acid. The second stage consisted of esterification of lactic acid by reactive distillation. A RadFrac column was used for this purpose which also facilitated easy separation of methyl lactate from methanol and water. Pure methyl lactate obtained from the second stage was then hydrolyzed in the third stage using pure lactic acid as an auto-catalyst to obtain the desired product. Use of pure lactic acid as an auto-catalyst helped to achieve the required purity as it minimized contamination. The process was optimized using sensitivity analysis in Aspen Plus®.
Production traits in F1 and F2 crosses with naturalized hair breed Santa Inês ewes
Authors: da Silva Alessandra Ferreira , McManus Concepta , do Prado Paim Tiago , Dallago Bruno Stéfano Lima , Esteves Geisa Isilda Ferreira , Louvandini Helder , Neto José Braccini , Lucci Carolina Madeira
Published: February 2014

The once bred ewe slaughter method proposes the use of female lamb to produce a lamb and then both are slaughtered, increasing income and high quality meat production. Thus, this study evaluated the growth and reproduction performance of ewe lamb from Santa Inês (SI), a naturalized genetic resource, and their crosses (Dorper x Santa Inês (DOR), Texel x Santa Inês (TEX), Ile de France x Santa Inês (ILE)), as well as the survivability and development of their offspring. The animals were weighed monthly from birth to 12-months age. Samples of milk were collected on approximately 30 days of lactation. The physical-chemical analysis of milk was performed. SI females (2.94 kg) had significantly lower birth weight than DOR (3.80 kg) and TEX (3.87 kg). ILE females had higher weaning weight and weight at 12 months than SI females, which reflected in higher daily weight gain (ADG) (108.46 g/day) than TEX and SI. The pregnancy rates at 12 months were ILE (57.14%), TEX (25%), DOR (50%), and SI (28.57%), with TEX and SI differing of ILE and DOR (p = 0.03). Therefore, in semi-confinement and in a once-bred ewe production system using crossbreeding and allying meat production and reproduction, we recommend the use of Dorper and Ile de France breeds for crossbreeding with Santa Inês females. These results demonstrated the useful of a local genetic resource in productive system aiming a low cost meat production.
Clinical disease activity and acute phase reactant levels are discordant among patients with active rheumatoid arthritis: acute phase reactant levels contribute separately to predicting outcome at one year
Authors: Kay Jonathan , Morgacheva Olga , Messing Susan P , Kremer Joel M , Greenberg Jeffrey D , Reed George W , Gravallese Ellen M , Furst Daniel E
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Clinical trials of new treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) typically require subjects to have an elevated acute phase reactant (APR), in addition to tender and swollen joints. However, despite the elevation of individual components of the Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) (tender and swollen joint counts and patient and physician global assessment), some patients with active RA may have normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and/or C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and thus fail to meet entry criteria for clinical trials. We assessed the relationship between CDAI and APRs in the Consortium of Rheumatology Researchers of North America (CORRONA) registry by comparing baseline characteristics and one-year clinical outcomes of patients with active RA, grouped by baseline APR levels.

Methods

This was an observational study of 9,135 RA patients who had both ESR and CRP drawn and a visit at which CDAI was >2.8 (not in remission).

Results

Of 9,135 patients with active RA, 58% had neither elevated ESR nor CRP; only 16% had both elevated ESR and CRP and 26% had either ESR or CRP elevated. Among the 4,228 patients who had a one-year follow-up visit, both baseline and one-year follow-up modified Health Assessment Questionnaire (mHAQ) and CDAI scores were lowest for patients with active RA but with neither APR elevated; both mHAQ and CDAI scores increased sequentially with the increase in number of elevated APR levels at baseline. Each individual component of the CDAI followed the same trend, both at baseline and at one-year follow-up. The magnitude of improvement in both CDAI and mHAQ scores at one year was associated positively with the number of APRs elevated at baseline.

Conclusions

In a large United States registry of RA patients, APR levels often do not correlate with disease activity as measured by joint counts and global assessments. These data strongly suggest that it is appropriate to obtain both ESR and CRP from RA patients at the initial visit. Requiring an elevation in APR levels as a criterion for inclusion of RA patients in studies of experimental agents may exclude some patients with active disease.
Identification and characterization of locus-specific methylation patterns within novel loci undergoing hypermethylation during breast cancer pathogenesis
Authors: Wojdacz Tomasz K , Windeløv Johanne A , Thestrup Britta B , Damsgaard Tine E , Overgaard Jens , Hansen Lise Lotte
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Despite similar clinical and pathological features, large numbers of breast cancer patients experience different outcomes of the disease. This, together with the fact that the incidence of breast cancer is growing worldwide, emphasizes an urgent need for identification of new biomarkers for early cancer detection and stratification of patients.

Methods

We used ultrahigh-resolution microarrays to compare genomewide methylation patterns of breast carcinomas (n = 20) and nonmalignant breast tissue (n = 5). Biomarker properties of a subset of discovered differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were validated using methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting (MS-HRM) in a case–control study on a panel of breast carcinomas (n = 275) and non-malignant controls (n = 74).

Results

On the basis of microarray results, we selected 19 DMRs for large-scale screening of cases and controls. Analysis of the screening results showed that all DMRs tested displayed significant gains of methylation in the cancer tissue compared to the levels in control tissue. Interestingly, we observed two types of locus-specific methylation, with loci undergoing either predominantly full or heterogeneous methylation during carcinogenesis. Almost all tested DMRs (17 of 19) displayed low-level methylation in nonmalignant breast tissue, independently of locus-specific methylation patterns in cases.

Conclusions

Specific loci can undergo either heterogeneous or full methylation during carcinogenesis, and loci hypermethylated in cancer frequently show low-level methylation in nonmalignant tissue.
Genetic ancestry of participants in the National Children’s Study
Authors: Smith Erin N , Jepsen Kristen , Arias Angelo D , Shepard Peter J , Chambers Christina D , Frazer Kelly A
Published: February 2014

Background

The National Children’s Study (NCS) is a prospective epidemiological study in the USA tasked with identifying a nationally representative sample of 100,000 children, and following them from their gestation until they are 21 years of age. The objective of the study is to measure environmental and genetic influences on growth, development, and health. Determination of the ancestry of these NCS participants is important for assessing the diversity of study participants and for examining the effect of ancestry on various health outcomes.

Results

We estimated the genetic ancestry of a convenience sample of 641 parents enrolled at the 7 original NCS Vanguard sites, by analyzing 30,000 markers on exome arrays, using the 1000 Genomes Project superpopulations as reference populations, and compared this with the measures of self-reported ethnicity and race. For 99% of the individuals, self-reported ethnicity and race agreed with the predicted superpopulation. NCS individuals self-reporting as Asian had genetic ancestry of either South Asian or East Asian groups, while those reporting as either Hispanic White or Hispanic Other had similar genetic ancestry. Of the 33 individuals who self-reported as Multiracial or Non-Hispanic Other, 33% matched the South Asian or East Asian groups, while these groups represented only 4.4% of the other reported categories.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that self-reported ethnicity and race have some limitations in accurately capturing Hispanic and South Asian populations. Overall, however, our data indicate that despite the complexity of the US population, individuals know their ancestral origins, and that self-reported ethnicity and race is a reliable indicator of genetic ancestry.
Aging of blood can be tracked by DNA methylation changes at just three CpG sites
Authors: Weidner Carola Ingrid , Lin Qiong , Koch Carmen Maike , Eisele Lewin , Beier Fabian , Ziegler Patrick , Bauerschlag Dirk Olaf , Jöckel Karl-Heinz , Erbel Raimund , Mühleisen Thomas Walter , Zenke Martin , Brümmendorf Tim Henrik , Wagner Wolfgang
Published: February 2014

Background

Human aging is associated with DNA methylation changes at specific sites in the genome. These epigenetic modifications may be used to track donor age for forensic analysis or to estimate biological age.

Results

We perform a comprehensive analysis of methylation profiles to narrow down 102 age-related CpG sites in blood. We demonstrate that most of these age-associated methylation changes are reversed in induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). Methylation levels at three age-related CpGs - located in the genes ITGA2B, ASPA and PDE4C - were subsequently analyzed by bisulfite pyrosequencing of 151 blood samples. This epigenetic aging signature facilitates age predictions with a mean absolute deviation from chronological age of less than 5 years. This precision is higher than age predictions based on telomere length. Variation of age predictions correlates moderately with clinical and lifestyle parameters supporting the notion that age-associated methylation changes are associated more with biological age than with chronological age. Furthermore, patients with acquired aplastic anemia or dyskeratosis congenita - two diseases associated with progressive bone marrow failure and severe telomere attrition - are predicted to be prematurely aged.

Conclusions

Our epigenetic aging signature provides a simple biomarker to estimate the state of aging in blood. Age-associated DNA methylation changes are counteracted in iPSCs. On the other hand, over-estimation of chronological age in bone marrow failure syndromes is indicative for exhaustion of the hematopoietic cell pool. Thus, epigenetic changes upon aging seem to reflect biological aging of blood.
Alu elements shape the primate transcriptome by cis-regulation of RNA editing
Authors: Daniel Chammiran , Silberberg Gilad , Behm Mikaela , Öhman Marie
Published: February 2014

Background

RNA editing by adenosine to inosine deamination is a widespread phenomenon, particularly frequent in the human transcriptome, largely due to the presence of inverted Alu repeats and their ability to form double-stranded structures – a requisite for ADAR editing. While several hundred thousand editing sites have been identified within these primate-specific repeats, the function of Alu-editing has yet to be elucidated.

Results

We show that inverted Alu repeats, expressed in the primate brain, can induce site-selective editing in cis on sites located several hundred nucleotides from the Alu elements. Furthermore, a computational analysis, based on available RNA-seq data, finds that site-selective editing occurs significantly closer to edited Alu elements than expected. These targets are poorly edited upon deletion of the editing inducers, as well as in homologous transcripts from organisms lacking Alus. Sequences surrounding sites near edited Alus in UTRs, have been subjected to a lesser extent of evolutionary selection than those far from edited Alus, indicating that their editing generally depends on cis-acting Alus. Interestingly, we find an enrichment of primate-specific editing within encoded sequence or the UTRs of zinc finger-containing transcription factors.

Conclusions

We propose a model whereby primate-specific editing is induced by adjacent Alu elements that function as recruitment elements for the ADAR editing enzymes. The enrichment of site-selective editing with potentially functional consequences on the expression of transcription factors indicates that editing contributes more profoundly to the transcriptomic regulation and repertoire in primates than previously thought.
Disorders of gender identity: what to do and who should do
it?
Authors: Barrett James
Published: February 2014

Transsexualism is not usually indicative of psychopathology. In carefully
selected individuals, with multidisciplinary support, a change of social
gender role and cross-sex hormone treatment greatly improves the
psychological and social state. Sustained improvement merits gender
reassignment surgery. The key is early referral with subsequent primary care
cooperation in the treatment plan.
Psychiatric diagnosis: impersonal, imperfect and
important
Authors: Craddock Nick , Mynors-Wallis Laurence
Published: February 2014

Psychiatric diagnosis is in the spotlight following the recent publication
of DSM-5. In this article we consider both the benefits and limitations of
diagnosis in psychiatry. The use of internationally recognised diagnoses,
although insufficient alone, is part of a psychiatrist's professional
responsibility to provide high-quality, evidence-based care for
patients.
‘Personalised evidence’ for personalised healthcare: integration of a clinical librarian into mental health services – a feasibility study
Authors: Steele Rachel , Tiffin Paul A.
Published: February 2014

Aims and method

To evaluate the feasibility of integrating a clinical librarian (CL) within four mental health teams. A CL was attached to three clinical teams and the Trustwide Psychology Research and Clinical Governance Structure for 12 months. Requests for evidence syntheses were recorded. The perceived impact of individual evidence summaries on staff activities was evaluated using a brief online questionnaire.

Results

Overall, 82 requests for evidence summaries were received: 50% related to evidence for individual patient care, 23% to generic clinical issues and 27% were on management/corporate topics. In the questionnaires 105 participants indicated that the most common impact on their practice was advice given to colleagues (51 respondents), closely followed by the evidence summaries stimulating new ideas for patient care or treatment (50 respondents).

Clinical implications

The integration of a CL into clinical and corporate teams is feasible and perceived as having an impact on staff activities. A CL may be able to collate ‘personalised evidence’ which may enhance individualised healthcare. In some cases the usual concept of a hierarchy of evidence may not easily apply, with case reports providing guidance which may be more applicable than population-based studies.
Preparation of (2,3-Dihydrobenzofuran-3-yl)acetic Acid via Rh-Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Yamashita Masayuki , Negoro Nobuyuki , Yasuma Tsuneo , Yamano Toru
Published: February 2014

A preparation via Rh-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation has been developed for (2,3-dihydrobenzofuran-3-yl)acetic acid derivatives, a key intermediate in the synthesis of the active pharmaceutical ingredient for GPR40 agonist, fasiglifam. Use of a cationic rhodium–Et-FerroTANE complex yielded the desired product in high enantiomeric excess (91%) and quantitative yield, and was thus recommended for further process development.
Synthesis of Silica-Coated AgCl Nanoparticles in Aqueous Poly(vinylpyrrolidone) Solution
Authors: Masuda Kyoso , Matsune Hideki , Takenaka Sakae , Kishida Masahiro
Published: February 2014

Silica-coated AgCl nanoparticles are successfully prepared in an aqueous solution. AgCl nanoparticles are synthesized using poly(vinylpyrrolidone) as a protecting agent, and a silica layer is formed by hydrolysis and polycondensation of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTS) and tetraethoxysilane. The results explain that APTS is a key material for the formation of the silica layer in the aqueous solution system.
Raising Retailers’ Profits: On Vertical Practices and the Exclusion of Rivals
Authors: Asker John , Bar-Isaac Heski
Published: February 2014

Resale price maintenance (RPM), slotting fees, loyalty rebates, and other related vertical practices can allow an incumbent manufacturer to transfer profits to retailers. If these retailers were to accommodate entry, upstream competition could lead to lower industry profits and the breakdown of these profit transfers. Thus, in equilibrium, retailers can internalize the effect of accommodating entry on the incumbent’s profits. Consequently, if entry requires downstream accommodation, entry can be deterred. We discuss policy implications of this aspect of vertical contracting practices. (JEL L14, L22, L25, L42, L81)
Are Private Markets and Filtering a Viable Source of Low-Income Housing? Estimates from a “Repeat Income” Model
Authors: Rosenthal Stuart S.
Published: February 2014

While filtering has long been considered the primary mechanism by which markets supply low-income housing, direct estimates of that process have been absent. This has contributed to doubts about the viability of markets and to misplaced policy. I fill this gap by estimating a “repeat income” model using 1985–2011 panel data. Real annual filtering rates are faster for rental housing (2.5 percent) than owner-occupied (0.5 percent), vary inversely with the income elasticity of demand and house price inflation, and are sensitive to tenure transitions as homes age. For most locations, filtering is robust which lends support for housing voucher programs. (JEL R21, R31, R38)
Osteochondral lesions of the talus
Authors: Hannon C. P. , Smyth N. A. , Murawski C. D. , Savage-Elliott B. A. , Deyer T. W. , Calder J. D. F. , Kennedy J. G.
Published: February 2014

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) occur in up to 70% of sprains and fractures involving the ankle. Atraumatic aetiologies have also been described. Techniques such as microfracture, and replacement strategies such as autologous osteochondral transplantation, or autologous chondrocyte implantation are the major forms of surgical treatment. Current literature suggests that microfracture is indicated for lesions up to 15 mm in diameter, with replacement strategies indicated for larger or cystic lesions. Short- and medium-term results have been reported, where concerns over potential deterioration of fibrocartilage leads to a need for long-term evaluation.

Biological augmentation may also be used in the treatment of OCLs, as they potentially enhance the biological environment for a natural healing response. Further research is required to establish the critical size of defect, beyond which replacement strategies should be used, as well as the most appropriate use of biological augmentation. This paper reviews the current evidence for surgical management and use of biological adjuncts for treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:164–71.
Exam Corner – February 2014
Authors: Khanduja V.
Published: February 2014

The FRCS (Tr & Orth) examination has three components: MCQs, Vivas and Clinical Examination. The Vivas are further divided into four sections comprising Basic Science, Adult Pathology, Hands and Children’s Orthopaedics and Trauma. The Clinical Examination section is divided into Upper and Lower limb cases. The aim of this section in the Journal is to focus specifically on the trainees preparing for the exam and to cater to all the sections of the exam. The vision is to complete the cycle of all relevant exam topics (as per the syllabus) in four years.
Context, institution or accountability? Exploring the factors that shape the performance of national human rights and equality bodies
Authors: Spencer Sarah , Harvey Colin
Published: February 2014

The past two decades witnessed a global proliferation of national human rights and equality bodies. Yet the research literature remains critical of their performance, positing a series of explanations for the gap between the expectations of civil society and the contribution they make. Through a comparative analysis of six statutory human rights and equality bodies in the United Kingdom and Ireland, this article explores the range of factors that shape their performance.
Profiling of Phospho-AKT, Phospho-mTOR, Phospho-MAPK and EGFR in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Kitano Haruhisa , Chung Joon-Yong , Ylaya Kris , Conway Catherine , Takikita Mikiko , Fukuoka Junya , Doki Yoshinori , Hanaoka Jun , Hewitt Stephen M.
Published: February 2014

Activation of numerous pathways has been documented in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has emerged as a common therapeutic target. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and AKT signaling pathways are downstream of EGFR and deregulated via genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in many human cancers. We evaluated selected markers in the EGFR pathway with reference to outcome. Tissues from 220 cases of NSCLC patients presented in a tissue microarray were assayed with immunohistochemistry for phosphorylated AKT, phosphorylated MAPK, phosphorylated mTOR, and EGFR and then quantified by automated image analysis. Individually, the biomarkers did not predict. Combined as ratios, p-mTOR/p-AKT, and p-MAPK/EGFR function as prognostic markers of survival ( p=0.008 and p=0.029, respectively), however, no significance was found after adjustment ( p=0.221, p=0.103). The sum of these ratios demonstrates a stronger correlation with survival ( p<0.001) and remained statistically significant after adjustment ( p=0.026). The algebraic combination of biomarkers offer the capacity to understand factors that predict outcome better than current approaches of evaluating biomarkers individually or in pairs. Our results show the sum of p-mTOR/p-AKT and p-MAPK/EGFR is a potential predictive marker of survival in NSCLC patients.
Reviews
Authors: Sterritt David , Beadling Laura L. , Conterio Martyn , Rush Zachariah , Warne Jude
Published: February 2014

Jean Epstein: Critical Essays and New Translations, Sarah Keller and Jason N. Paul (eds), (2012) Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press, 439 pp., ISBN 9789048513840 (e-bk); ISBN 9789089642929 (pbk), $49.95/£32.86

Film Genre Reader IV, Barry Keith Grant, (2012) Austin: University of Texas Press, 766 pp., ISBN 9780292742062 (pbk), $29.95; ISBN 9780292742055 (hbk), $65.00

The Romy Schneider Story Bracknelll: Reel Publishing, 141 pp., ISBN 9781905764167 (pbk), £10.00

A Social History of Iranian Cinema: Volume 4, The Globalizing Era, 1984–2010, Hamid Naficy, (2012) Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 632 pp., ISBN 9780822348788 (pbk), $29.95; ISBN 9780822348665 (hbk), $99.95

Todd Haynes, (Contemporary Film Directors), Rob White, (2013) Champaign: University of Illinois Press, 176 pp., ISBN 9780252079108 (pbk), $22.00
Perspectivas en torno a la seguridad
Authors: Fernández Ferreira Enrique Eduardo
Published: February 2014

Tomando en consideración la perspectiva evolutiva del concepto de seguridad, realizamos un breve y sucinto recorrido sobre las ideas que han propiciado un planteamiento global e integrador en la elaboración de las Estrategias de Seguridad adoptadas en nuestro entorno geopolítico. En todos los ámbitos se hace referencia a la necesidad de integrar los diferentes elementos y actores que forman parte de las estructuras de seguridad, pero se echa en falta una apuesta decidida en este sentido. El planteamiento objeto de este artículo pretende llamar la atención sobre la esfera local, la cual, a través de sus propias estructuras, juega un papel importante y de primer nivel, en todo lo concerniente a la seguridad. Integrar la perspectiva local en el tratamiento de la seguridad establecido desde las Estrategias adoptadas para hacer frente a los nuevos retos y amenazas, se justifica por sí mismo, tanto desde una perspectiva conceptual como estructural, teniendo en cuenta que es, precisamente en las ciudades, donde más se perciben las dinámicas asociadas a la seguridad.
El sentido de territorialidad en Argentina: cuidar un lugar para cuidarnos
Authors: Soraire Florencia , Trimano Luciana
Published: February 2014

Abordar el cuidado del lugar donde se vive en sintonía con la búsqueda y el logro de bienestar, posibilita dimensionar la preocupación por llevar adelante una vida sana frente a la dinámica destructiva de las tendencias hegemónicas de producción, donde el ambiente es significado como “recurso natural”. Las estrategias emprendidas para protegerse y cuidarse, tanto a modo individuo como colectivo, incluyen también la búsqueda de otro tipo de interacción con el medio que se habita. Al ser la significación del ambiente como lugar sagrado una de ellas, encontramos en la emergencia de la “Pachamama” –Madre Tierra– la clave de lectura que articula el “cuidar un lugar para cuidarnos”. En este sentido, ciertas prácticas alimentarias y acciones conjuntas que se emprenden en aras de defender y cuidar la tierra (y cuidarnos), son indicadores de las diferentes formas de búsqueda para “sentirse bien”. Recurrimos entonces, a dos etnografías en Argentina que dan cuenta de los cuestionamientos que nos generan las luchas contra la mega-minería a cielo abierto en Catamarca y contra la instalación de Monsanto en Córdoba.
When to Take or Forgo New Product Exclusivity: Balancing Protection from Competition against Word-of-Mouth Spillover
Authors: Peres Renana , Van den Bulte Christophe
Published: February 2014

Manufacturers or resellers introducing a new product often must decide whether and for how long to be its exclusive seller. Standard models of competition and conventional wisdom suggest that exclusivity boosts profits. However, using both agent-based simulations and game-theoretic modeling, the authors find that positive word of mouth (WOM) from customers of rival firms can make exclusivity unprofitable. This reversal of conventional wisdom occurs because WOM creates a positive externality, and a firm holding exclusivity cannot benefit from the WOM spillover generated by customers of other firms. The benefits of forgoing exclusivity are magnified by (1) the presence of locked-in customers who consider buying from only a single firm, (2) the extent to which opinion leaders are among a firm's own locked-in customers rather than those of competitors, and (3) customers’ low price sensitivity. In addition, firms sometimes benefit from forgoing exclusivity even without WOM from rivals’ customers, but only when the combination of large-scale lock-in, high price sensitivity, and strong WOM among the firm's customers exists.
Cross-Selling Performance in Complex Selling Contexts: An Examination of Supervisory- and Compensation-Based Controls
Authors: Schmitz Christian , Lee You-Cheong , Lilien Gary L.
Published: February 2014

Although cross-selling offers significant benefits for both vendors and customers, three-quarters of all cross-selling initiatives fail, typically for sales force–related reasons. Prior research examining the antecedents of salespeople's product adoption has not yet shown whether or under which conditions such adoption behavior leads to better salesperson cross-selling performance. The authors develop a model of the role of supervisory behavior, compensation-based controls, and their interactions in enhancing the effect of salespeople's adoption behavior on cross-selling performance in a complex selling context. To test the model, the authors use a matched, multilevel data set from company records and surveys of salespeople and sales managers working in a biotech firm. The analysis shows that transformational leadership enhances the effect of salespeople's product portfolio adoption on cross-selling performance, whereas transactional leadership diminishes the effect. Furthermore, the effect of leadership type depends on whether cross-selling incentives are provided: the positive performance effect of transformational leadership is crowded out when monetary incentives are provided, and the negative effect of transactional leadership becomes even more negative. These results have significant theoretical and managerial implications.
An efficient approach to the key intermediate of rosuvastatin
Authors: Guan Yueqing , Zhou Guobin , Yang Weiqun
Published: February 2014

An efficient synthetic approach to the synthesis of the 5-pyrimidinecarbaldehyde 2, which is the key intermediate of rosuvastatin, involves the aerobic oxidation of the 5-pyrimidinemethanol 1 in the presence of Co(NO3)2, dimethylglyoxime (DmgH2), and 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) under mild reaction conditions. The method does not require the use of hazardous or expensive chemicals and is suitable for scale-up.
Relational stressors as predictors for repeat aggressive and self-harming incidents in child and adolescent psychiatric inpatient settings
Authors: Ulke Christine , Klein Annette M. , von Klitzing Kai
Published: February 2014

This study examined whether relational stressors such as psychosocial stressors, the therapist’s absence and a change of therapist are associated with repeat aggressive or self-harming incidents in child and adolescent psychiatric inpatient care. The study data were derived from critical incident reports and chart reviews of 107 inpatients. In multinomial regression analysis, patients with repeat aggressive or self-harming incidents were compared with patients with single incidents. Results suggested that a higher number of psychosocial stressors and a change of therapist, but not the therapist’s absence are predictors for repeat aggressive and self-harming incidents. There was a high prevalence of therapist’s absence during both, single and repeat, incidents. Repeat aggressive incidents were common in male children and adolescents with disruptive behavior disorders. Repeat self-harming incidents were common in adolescent females with trauma-related disorders. Patients with repeat aggressive or self-harming incidents had a higher number of abnormal intrafamilial relationships and acute life events than patients with single incidents. Interventions to reduce a change of therapist should in particular target children and adolescents with a higher number of psychosocial stressors and/or a known history of traumatic relational experiences. After a first incident, patients should have a psychosocial assessment to evaluate whether additional relational support is needed.
Incidence and Impact of CMV Infection in Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Turner Kristen M. , Lee Henry C. , Boppana Suresh B. , Carlo Waldemar A. , Randolph David A.
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the leading cause of nongenetic deafness in children in the United States and can cause neurodevelopmental impairment in term infants. Limited data exist regarding congenital CMV infections in preterm infants. We aimed to determine the incidence and association with outcomes of congenital CMV in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants.

METHODS:

VLBW infants born in 1993 to 2008 and admitted to the University of Alabama in Birmingham Regional Neonatal ICU were screened on admission for congenital CMV. CMV status and clinical outcomes were identified by using internal patient databases and hospital-based medical records. The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes included evidence of neurologic injury in the form of abnormal cranial ultrasound findings, sensorineural hearing loss, or abnormal motor development. Multivariate analysis was performed.

RESULTS:

Eighteen of 4594 VLBW infants had congenital CMV (0.39%; 95% confidence interval, 0.25%–0.62%). An additional 16 infants (0.35%; 95% confidence interval, 0.21%–0.57%) were identified who acquired CMV postnatally. Congenital CMV was not associated with death. Compared with controls, congenitally infected VLBW infants were more likely to have hearing loss at initial screening (67% vs 9%, P < .0001) and confirmed at follow-up (83% vs 2.1%, P < .0001). Congenital CMV was also associated with abnormal neuroimaging (72% vs 25%, P < .0001) and adverse developmental motor outcomes (43% vs 9%, P = .02). Acquired CMV was not associated with any adverse outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

Congenital CMV in VLBW infants is associated with high rates of neurologic injury and hearing loss but not death.
Risk and Prevalence of Developmental Delay in Young Children With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Mussatto Kathleen A. , Hoffmann Raymond G. , Hoffman George M. , Tweddell James S. , Bear Laurel , Cao Yumei , Brosig Cheryl
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk for developmental delay (DD). Changes in cognitive, language, and motor skills in early childhood have not been described. We report the results of a structured approach using longitudinal testing to identify problems and ensure early intervention in accordance with published guidelines.

METHODS:

Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Third Edition, were used to assess cognitive, language, and motor skills in 99 children with CHD. Subjects were evaluated 3 to 6 times in the first 3 years of life. DD was defined as scores >1 SD below the population mean.

RESULTS:

Cardiac anatomy was single ventricle (1V) in 34 subjects and 2 ventricles (2V) in 65. Medical comorbidities were present in 21% and genetic syndromes in 19%. Most subjects (75%) had DD in ≥1 area at ≥1 assessments. Subjects with 1V anatomy had equivalent outcomes to those with 2V. Cognitive and language scores declined in subjects with genetic syndromes but were stable and within the average range for subjects with 1V and 2V. Motor scores improved for subjects with 1V and 2V but remained low for those with genetic syndromes. In addition to age, need for supplemental tube feeding, longer cardiopulmonary bypass time, and shorter time since last hospitalization were significant predictors of developmental outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS:

DDs in young children with CHD are both common and dynamic. Providers should encourage longitudinal surveillance for children with CHD because exposure to risk and prevalence of DD change over time.
Sexual Orientation and Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids in US Adolescent Boys
Authors: Blashill Aaron J. , Safren Steven A.
Published: February 2014

OBJECTIVES:

We compared the lifetime prevalence of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) misuse among sexual minority versus heterosexual US adolescent boys, and secondarily, sought to explore possible intermediate variables that may explain prevalence differences.

METHODS:

Participants were 17 250 adolescent boys taken from a pooled data set of the 14 jurisdictions from the 2005 and 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys that assessed sexual orientation. Data were analyzed for overall prevalence of AAS misuse and possible intermediary risk factors.

RESULTS:

Sexual minority adolescent boys were at an increased odds of 5.8 (95% confidence interval 4.1–8.2) to report a lifetime prevalence of AAS (21% vs 4%) compared with their heterosexual counterparts, P < .001. Exploratory analyses suggested that increased depressive symptoms/suicidality, victimization, and substance use contributed to this disparity.

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the first known study to test and find substantial health disparities in the prevalence of AAS misuse as a function of sexual orientation. Prevention and intervention efforts are needed for sexual minority adolescent boys.
Management of bone metastases
Authors: Nagykálnai Tamás , Landherr László
Published: February 2014

The skeleton is the most common site to be affected by advanced breast, prostatic, lung, kidney, thyroid and other solid tumors (in addition to myeloma multiplex). Bone metastases cause significant morbidity with nearly always fatal outcome. Over 600 000 new patients diagnosed in the developed countries yearly. On average every 4–6 months patients suffer from series of severe skeletal complications such as pathologic fractures, spinal cord compression, hypercalcemic events, etc., besides the permanent pain. Local external beam radiotherapy, systemic radioisotope-, endocrine-, and chemotherapy, oral and i.v. bisphosphonates and recently s.c. denosumab are the mainstays of treatment, in addition to pain-killers and other usual “classical” interventions. The modern treatments singificantly reduce the probability of skeletal complications and improve the patients’ quality of life and, sometimes, they extend the survival as well. The authors briefly summarize the available treatment options. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(6), 217–225.
Is ceCT necessary beyond FDG-PET/CT for primary staging in Hodgkin lymphoma?
Authors: Kajáry Kornélia , Molnár Zsuzsa , Szakáll jr. Szabolcs , Molnár Péter , Lengyel Zsolt
Published: February 2014

Introduction: Several study supported that 18F-Fluoro-deoxy-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computer tomography with low dose CT (standard PET/CT) is more accurate than contrast-enhanced CT (ceCT) in the primary staging of Hodgkin disease. Aim: The authors compared the accuracy of these examinations with this indication in their practice, and analysed the added value of ceCT which was performed as a supplement to standard PET/CT. Method: Twenty-eight patients were categorized based on ceCT, single standard PET/CT and standard PET/CT with ceCT. Results: Twenty-four patients were in the same disease-stage based on all methods. Disease was upstaged by standard PET/CT compared to ceCT in 4 patients. There was no change in stage when comparing standard PET/CT and standard PET/CT with ceCT. Conclusions: Standard PET/CT is more accurate than ceCT in the primary staging of Hodgkin disease. The authors established that it is not reasonable to supplement standard PET/CT with ceCT in this indication. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(6), 226–230.
Degradation control of cellulose scaffold by Malaprade oxidation
Authors: Konkumnerd Wichchulada , Hyon Suong-Hyu , Matsumura Kazuaki
Published: February 2014

Study on oxidizing cellulose scaffold to dialdehyde cellulose by sodium periodate (NaIO4) was carried out. Concentration of sodium periodate and the reaction time were effected for aldehyde introduction to cellulose scaffolds. Cellulose powder was dissolved in 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride, an ionic liquid, at 100°C and maintained at room temperature for 7 days, providing flexible cellulose scaffold. The cellulose scaffold was oxidized using periodate oxidation (Malaprade oxidation), which oxidizes carbohydrate by glycol cleavage to provide dialdehyde. Aldehyde groups introduced into cellulose were quantified by simple iodometry. Oxidized cellulose scaffold was degraded in the amino acid solution triggered by the reaction between aldehyde groups and amino groups. During immersion of the cellulose scaffolds in the amino acid solution, the mass loss of the scaffolds was evaluated by measuring of weight of oxidized cellulose scaffold before and after degradation.
Caracterização de profissionais de enfermagem que atendem pessoas com úlceras vasculares na rede ambulatorial
Authors: Santana Adriana Cristina de , Bachion Maria Márcia , Malaquias Suelen Gomes , Vieira Flaviana , Carneiro Diana Alves , Lima Jacqueline Rodrigues de
Published: February 2014

Objetivou-se descrever características demográficas e profissiográficas dos trabalhadores de enfermagem que atendem pessoas com úlceras vasculares, em salas de curativos da rede municipal de saúde. Trata-se de pesquisa transversal, descritiva, de abordagem quantitativa realizada numa grande cidade da região Centro-Oeste do Brasil, de setembro de 2010 a fevereiro de 2011. Utilizou-se na coleta de dados um questionário para obtenção das características de interesse. Realizou-se análise descritiva e teste qui quadrado (p<0,05). Participaram 218 profissionais, dos quais 58,3% nunca realizaram atividades de atualização em avaliação e tratamento de feridas, 40,7% relataram pouca experiência na área, 61% eram técnicos e auxiliares de enfermagem. Aproximadamente 10% dos enfermeiros atuavam de modo fixo nas salas de curativos; os demais participavam do atendimento quando chamados. Os dados obtidos indicam fragilidades no processo de atendimento de enfermagem a pessoas com úlceras vasculares.
Práticas complementares de saúde e os desafios de sua aplicabilidade no hospital: visão de enfermeiros
Authors: Melo Suzane Cristina Costa , Santana Raíra Gomes de , Santos Déborah Cardozo dos , Alvim Neide Aparecida Titonelli
Published: February 2014

Pesquisa de abordagem qualitativa, descritivo-exploratória, com o objetivo de descrever o conjunto de concepções e saberes que orientam o emprego de práticas integrativas e complementares de saúde (PICS) por enfermeiros; e analisar os desafios que se apresentam à aplicabilidade dessas terapias por enfermeiros no contexto hospitalar. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram enfermeiros de instituições públicas hospitalares do Rio de Janeiro. A coleta de dados foi feita através de entrevista semiestruturada e técnica de criatividade e sensibilidade denominada Almanaque. Os resultados mostram que a hegemonia do modelo biomédico na formação e atuação dos profissionais de saúde dificulta a aplicação de PICS no hospital. Porém, à medida que esse modelo não dá conta da complexidade do ser humano, emerge a possibilidade de compartilhamento com PICS no cuidado, visando à integralidade do ser humano.
Estado de saúde de trabalhadores de enfermagem em readequação e readaptação funcional
Authors: Cacciari Pâmella , Haddad Maria do Carmo Lourenço , Vannuchi Marli Terezinha Oliveira , Dalmas José Carlos
Published: February 2014

Estudo descritivo, transversal, cujo objetivo foi avaliar o estado de saúde de trabalhadores de enfermagem em readequação e readaptação funcional de um hospital universitário público do norte do Paraná. Dados de 34 trabalhadores foram coletados por meio da aplicação do Medical Outcomes Studies 36 - item Short Form (MOS SF-36). Os resultados mostraram que problemas físicos foram o motivo da readaptação funcional em 91,2% dos casos. Dos oito domínios avaliados pelo MOS SF-36, dor corporal, vitalidade e saúde em geral receberam os piores escores e os melhores escores foram atribuídos a aspectos do componente saúde mental. Os trabalhadores readequados e readaptados por motivo físico apresentaram escores inferiores em todos os domínios, exceto no desempenho emocional, em relação àqueles readaptados por problema mental. A avaliação da percepção de saúde desses trabalhadores revelou que a readequação e readaptação é uma estratégia desenvolvida para potencializar a capacidade funcional dos trabalhadores, apesar de suas limitações.
A família revelando-se como um ser de direitos durante a internação hospitalar da criança
Authors: Xavier Daiani Modernel , Gomes Giovana Calcagno , Barlem Edison Luiz Devos , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini
Published: February 2014

Estudo descritivo, de abordagem qualitativa, realizado no segundo semestre de 2011, em uma Unidade de Pediatria de uma cidade do extremo sul do país. Objetivou-se conhecer as situações em que as famílias se revelam como seres de direito durante a internação hospitalar da criança. Participaram quinze familiares cuidadores divididos em três grupos amostrais. A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas, e os dados foram analisados pela análise aberta, axial e seletiva. Teve como referencial metodológico a Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados. Verificou-se que a família revela-se como um ser de direitos, quando a reconhecem como tal; solicita e luta por seus direitos; sugere melhorias para o cuidado e mantém sua autonomia, mesmo que tenha que se submeter às decisões da equipe em prol da criança. Concluiu-se ser fundamental permitir que estas sejam famílias no hospital, possibilitando o exercício de seus direitos e cidadania.