bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Content Analysis of Cognitive Health Promotion in Popular Magazines
Authors: Friedman Daniela B. , Laditka Sarah B. , Laditka James N. , Price Anna E.
Published: November 2011

Health behaviors, particularly physical activity, may promote cognitive health. The public agenda for health behaviors is influenced by popular media. We analyzed the cognitive health content of 20 United States magazines, examining every page of every 2006–2007 issue of the highest circulating magazines for general audiences, women, men, African Americans, and the health conscious ( n = 178). Diet was the greatest focus. Physical activity coverage was limited. Important behavior-related cognitive health risks, including hypertension and diabetes, were not mentioned. Publications for African Americans had little cognitive health content. Coverage of cognitive health was not commensurate with growing evidence that health behaviors may help to maintain it. Findings may be useful to public health officials, health care providers, non-profit organizations that promote cognitive health, individuals evaluating cognitive health information in popular media, and those responsible for magazines or other media.
Correlations between Psychological Symptoms and Social Relationships among Medical Undergraduates in Anhui Province of China
Authors: Sun Liang , Sun Li-Na , Sun Ye-Huan , Yang Lin-Sheng , Wu Hong-Yan , Zhang Dong-Dong , Cao Hong-Yuan , Sun Ying
Published: November 2011

Objectives:

To assess the prevalence of psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety) among Chinese medical students and to find the possible relationships between psychological symptoms and social relationships.

Methods:

A sample of 10,140 medical students was investigated with a structured questionnaire, that included the Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Social Support Rating Scale, and Family APGAR Index (adaptability, partnership, growth, affection, resolve).

Results:

The present study revealed that 16.8% of the medical students suffered from depressive symptoms and 14.1% from anxiety symptoms. Female students were more likely to have anxiety, the second-year students had higher levels of psychological symptoms than the first-year students. Likewise, significant differences were found among college, satisfaction of specialty, and economic condition of the family in anxiety and depression symptoms. Social support, family function, and all dimensions were significantly negatively associated with depression and anxiety symptoms. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression showed that less social support, poor family function, the second-year students, and unsatisfactory specialty were associated with more psychological symptoms, after adjusting the effects of sex, age, and college.

Conclusions:

Medical students have a relatively high level of depression and anxiety symptoms. These findings support the hypothesis that if medical students are better supported and cared for, negative psychosocial consequences might be prevented or at least reduced.
Immigrant Nonprofit Organizations and the Fight for Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Authors: Wilson Catherine E.
Published: November 2011

This paper examines the central role played by immigrant nonprofit organizations in the fight for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR) in the City of Philadelphia from 2009-2010. Relying on sixteen months of ethnographic research (April 2009-August 2010), including over seventy interviews of nonprofit, public, and private sector leaders, this paper explores how immigrant nonprofit organizations participated in the one-year lifecycle of the Reform Immigration for America (RI4A) campaign in Philadelphia. Furthermore, the paper analyzes the institutional legacy the campaign left on these organizations, as they continue to promote immigrant integration and engage in political advocacy at the local level. Finally, the paper shares lessons learned from the Philadelphia-based campaign as immigrant coalitions throughout the United States grapple with the prospect of immigration reform amid political polarization and an uncertain economic climate.
Civil Society under the Treaty of Lisbon: Relationship between National Public Benefit Organizations and European Union Policy?
Authors: Versteegh Lia C.R.M.
Published: November 2011

The active involvement of European citizens became a new form of democracy in the Treaty of Lisbon of 2009 by the introduction of a whole new chapter dedicated to this purpose. There is an article that obligates the Commission to give serious consideration to the demands of one million citizens from a significant number of Member States. The treaty also provides for a better role of NGOs such as foundations and associations. However, there are uncertainties concerning the definition and the nature of the concept of civil society of which NGOs may be regarded as typical. The European Union gives as leading principle of civil society the concept of voluntariness. Currently, the legal typology of NGOs in the European Union is determined by national laws of the Member State. The present forms of NGOs show great differences regarding formal requirements. There is a variety of legal forms available in EU Member States for public benefit organizations as typical civil society organizations. In the concept of European Union governance there are different concepts about which role civil society could or ought to play in Europes governance structure. One of these concepts is that the European Union cooperates with the national civil society institutions through partnership agreements. However, the European Union provides no indication of ways to measure whether an organization can be considered as a public benefit organization. Also, the supervising competences in the EU Member States are different. As a result of these the participatory democracy in the EU does not reflect the power of Europes civil society.
Determination of two reactive dyes concentration in dyed cotton fabric
Authors: Miljkovic Milena , Purenovic Milovan , Stamenkovic Miodrag , Petrovic Milica
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this paper was to determine the unknown concentration of
dichlortriazinyl reactive dyes, namely Reactive Yellow 22 and Reactive Blue
163, in dyed cotton fabric. The samples of cotton fabric were dyed
individually with each dye as well as with a mixture of two dyes. The
unknown concentrations of dyes were determined by measuring the
corresponding reflectance values of dyed fabric samples and then using the
relation between the concentration and reflectance values of the samples.
The method set by Kubelka and Munk was used. The accuracy and repeatability
of the concentrations determination were calculated by the statistical
processing of the data obtained by measurements. Relative errors of
individual determination of Reactive Yellow 22 and Reactive Blue 163 were
3.66% and 5.94% respectively. Relative errors in determination of Reactive
Yellow 22 and Reactive Blue 163 in a mixture were 3.47% and 3.19%
respectively. The results showed that reflectance spectrophotometry can be
successfully used as the method for concentration determination of Reactive
Yellow 22 and Reactive Blue 163 in dyed cotton fabric and can therefore be
applied as the shade control method in dyeing.
Adsorptive removal of residual catalyst from palm biodiesel: Application of response surface methodology
Authors: Baroutian Saeid , Shahbaz Kaveh , Mjalli Sabri , Alnashef Muen , Hashim Ali
Published: November 2011

In this work, the residual potassium hydroxide catalyst was removed from palm
oil-based methyl esters using an adsorption technique. The produced biodiesel
was initially purified through a water washing process. To produce a
biodiesel with a better quality and also to meet standard specifications (EN
14214 and ASTM D6751), batch adsorption on palm shell activated carbon was
used for further catalyst removal. The Central Composite Design (CCD) of the
Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to study the influence of
adsorbent amount, time and temperature on the adsorption of potassium
species. The maximum catalyst removal was achieved at 40?C using 0.9 g
activated carbon for 20 h adsorption time. The results from the Response
Surface Methodology are in a good agreement with the measured values. The
absolute error in prediction at the optimum condition was 3.7%, which is
reasonably accurate. This study proves that adsorption post-treatment
techniques can be successfully employed to improve the quality of biodiesel
fuel for its effective use on diesel engines and to minimize the usage of
water.
Potential usage of fly and bottom ash from thermal power plant ”Nikola Tesla” landfill, Serbia
Authors: Zivotic Miodrag , Stojiljkovic Dragoslava , Jovovic Aleksandar , Cudic Vladica
Published: November 2011

In Serbia, the ash from power plants has long been labelled as hazardous
waste. With the adoption of the appropriate legislation this ash became
secondary raw material with the potential usage. In this paper an analysis of
the fly and bottom ash composition, which are disposed of in the power plant
?Nikola Tesla A? landfill, is presented. Thirty samples, divided into three
sets, were analyzed for trace elements As, Ba, Be, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo,
Ni, Pb, Ti, V and Zn. The first and second set of samples were taken at the
depth of 0.0-0.6 m, from cassette III, at the place of waste discharge (set
I) and in the centre of the cassette (set II).The third set of samples was
taken from the same cassette spot but at the different depth. The estimated
variations in quality within individual sets, as well as the comparison
between sets I and II, were done. The repeatability of results by the depth
of cassette (set III) was also analyzed. The mixture consisting of 79.4%
limestone, 17% clay, 0.5% sand, 0.55% iron ore, 0.55% from steel mill waste
and 2% ash from the thermal power plant "Nikola Tesla A" was adopted as the
reputable mixture for cement making. For concrete making, the same cement
mixture was used but with 2.1% of the same ash material added. The results
showed possibility of further fly and bottom ash use as the cement and
concrete material.
Stereospecific ligands and their complexes, Part VIII: Antimicrobial activity of palladium(II) complexes with 0,0'-dialkyl esters of (S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N'-di-2-(4-methyl)-pentanoic acid
Authors: Ilic Dragoslav , Vujic Jelena , Radojevic Ivana , Stefanovic Olgica , Comic Ljiljana , Bankovic Dragic , Trifunovic Srecko
Published: November 2011

Palladium(II) complexes (1-4) of general formula [PdCl2(R2-S,S-eddp)] with
bidentate N,N?-ligands, O,O'-dialkyl esters (R = ethyl, n-propyl, n-butyl and
n-pentyl), of (S,S)-ethylenediamine-N,N?-di-2-(4-methyl)pentanoic acid
(S,S-eddp) were prepared and characterized by microanalysis, infrared and
UV/VIS spectroscopy. The ligands and its complexes were tested for their in
vitro antimicrobial activity against 15 species of bacteria and fungi.
Testing is performed by the microdilution method, with the minimum inhibitory
concentration (MIC) and the minimum microbicidal concentration (MMC) being
determined. The MIC values were in range from 4.9 ?g cm-3 to > 5000 ?g cm-3
while MMC values ranged from 78 ?g cm-3 to > 5000 ?g cm-3. Palladium(II)
complexes [PdCl2(Ln)] (n = 1-4) have statistically significant higher
activity than the corresponding ligands. The complex 4 displayed the
strongest activity among all tested compounds.
Cesarean Section and Interferon-Induced Helicase Gene Polymorphisms Combine to Increase Childhood Type 1 Diabetes Risk
Authors: Bonifacio Ezio , Warncke Katharina , Winkler Christiane , Wallner Maike , Ziegler Anette-G.
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of type 1 diabetes is increasing. Delivery by cesarean section is also more prevalent, and it is suggested that cesarean section is associated with type 1 diabetes risk. We examine associations between cesarean delivery, islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes, and genes involved in type 1 diabetes susceptibility.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cesarean section was examined as a risk factor in 1,650 children born to a parent with type 1 diabetes and followed from birth for the development of islet autoantibodies and type 1 diabetes.

RESULTS

Children delivered by cesarean section (n = 495) had more than twofold higher risk for type 1 diabetes than children born by vaginal delivery (hazard ratio [HR] 2.5; 95% CI 1.4–4.3; P = 0.001). Cesarean section did not increase the risk for islet autoantibodies (P = 0.6) but was associated with a faster progression to diabetes after the appearance of autoimmunity (P = 0.015). Cesarean section–associated risk was independent of potential confounder variables (adjusted HR 2.7;1.5–5.0; P = 0.001) and observed in children with and without high-risk HLA genotypes. Interestingly, cesarean section appeared to interact with immune response genes, including CD25 and in particular the interferon-induced helicase 1 gene, where increased risk for type 1 diabetes was only seen in children who were delivered by cesarean section and had type 1 diabetes–susceptible IFIH1 genotypes (12-year risk, 9.1 vs. <3% for all other combinations; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that type 1 diabetes risk modification by cesarean section may be linked to viral responses in the preclinical autoantibody-positive disease phase.
Emerging Applications of Metabolomic and Genomic Profiling in Diabetic Clinical Medicine
Authors: McKillop Aine M. , Flatt Peter R.
Published: November 2011

Clinical and epidemiological metabolomics provides a unique opportunity to look at genotype-phenotype relationships as well as the body\x{2019}s responses to environmental and lifestyle factors. Fundamentally, it provides information on the universal outcome of influencing factors on disease states and has great potential in the early diagnosis, therapy monitoring, and understanding of the pathogenesis of disease. Diseases, such as diabetes, with a complex set of interactions between genetic and environmental factors, produce changes in the body\x{2019}s biochemical profile, thereby providing potential markers for diagnosis and initiation of therapies. There is clearly a need to discover new ways to aid diagnosis and assessment of glycemic status to help reduce diabetes complications and improve the quality of life. Many factors, including peptides, proteins, metabolites, nucleic acids, and polymorphisms, have been proposed as putative biomarkers for diabetes. Metabolomics is an approach used to identify and assess metabolic characteristics, changes, and phenotypes in response to influencing factors, such as environment, diet, lifestyle, and pathophysiological states. The specificity and sensitivity using metabolomics to identify biomarkers of disease have become increasingly feasible because of advances in analytical and information technologies. Likewise, the emergence of high-throughput genotyping technologies and genome-wide association studies has prompted the search for genetic markers of diabetes predisposition or susceptibility. In this review, we consider the application of key metabolomic and genomic methodologies in diabetes and summarize the established, new, and emerging metabolomic and genomic biomarkers for the disease. We conclude by summarizing future insights into the search for improved biomarkers for diabetes research and human diagnostics.
Antimicrobial activity of the extracts from fruits of Rumex L. species
Authors: Wegiera Magdalena , Kosikowska Urszula , Malm Anna , Smolarz Helena
Published: November 2011

This study was designed primarily to investigate the antibacterial and antifungal activity of the extracts from fruits of six Rumex L. species: R. acetosa L., R. acetosella L., R. confertus Willd., R. crispus L., R. hydrolapathum Huds. and R. obtusifolius L. The 7 Grampositive and 7 Gram-negative bacteria strains and 5 fungal ones were tested by agar and broth dilution method. Determination of minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) revealed that the extracts from R. confertus, R. crispus, R. hydrolapathum and R. obtusifolius exerted differential inhibitory effect on the growth of Gram-positive bacteria — staphylococci (MIC=62.5–125 µg/mL) and Gramnegative bacteria — Escherichia coli ATCC 3521, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MIC=125→500 µg/mL); MIC values determined by agar dilution method were somewhat higher. The same extracts inhibited also the growth of fungi — Candida spp. or Trichophyton mentagrophytes ATCC 9533 (MIC=250–500 µg/mL), as found by agar dilution method. The total content of polyphenols (11.66–78.36 mg/g), anthracene derivatives (0.26–12.93 mg/g) and tannins (4.00–11.16%) was also determined.
The extract from hop cones in plasma protects against changes following exposure to peroxynitrite
Authors: Olas Beata , Kołodziejczyk-Czepas Joanna , Wachowicz Barbara , Jędrejek Dariusz , Stochmal Anna , Oleszek Wiesław
Published: November 2011

Humulus lupulus (Cannabaceae) is well known throughout the world as a raw material in the brewing industry. The antioxidative action of hop cones is poorly understood, therefore the aim of our present study was to investigate in vitro changes in human plasma induced by peroxynitrite in the presence of the highly purified extract from hop cones (Humulus lupulus). The aim of our study was also to explain the effect of the extract from hop cones on coagulation activity of human plasma treated with peroxynitrite. The action of the extract from hop cones was compared with the properties of a well-characterized commercial monomeric polyphenol — resveratrol (3,4′,5-trihydroxystilbene). The tested plant extract, like resveratrol, significantly inhibited protein carbonylation and nitration in plasma treated with ONOO−(0.1 mM). The extract from hop cones, like resveratrol, also caused a distinct reduction of plasma lipid peroxidation induced by ONOO−. Moreover, the tested extract modulated the coagulation properties of plasma treated with peroxynitrite. It seems that antioxidative activities of the highly purified extract from hop cones may be responsible for its medicinal properties.
Effect of the MACS technique on rabbit sperm motility
Authors: Vasicek Jaromir , Makarevich Alexander , Chrenek Peter
Published: November 2011

Magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) separates apoptotic spermatozoa by the use of annexin V-conjugated nanoparticles which bind to phosphatidylserine that is externalized on the outer leaflet of the sperm plasma membrane. This technique yields two fractions: annexin V-negative (AnV−) and annexin V-positive (AnV+). The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of MACS application on the motility parameters of rabbit spermatozoa. Rabbit semen samples collected separately from 4 bucks (I, II, III, and IV) were filtered and separated in a MACS system. The semen samples from a control (untreated) group, AnV− and AnV+ fraction were evaluated using CASA system. The experiment was replicated 4 times for each buck. The AnV+ sperm had significantly lower concentration than the AnV− fractions and the control samples (P<0.05 for bucks I, II, III, but not IV). We observed that the proportion of apoptotic spermatozoa in the semen of NZW bucks is about 20%. There was no significant difference in the percentage of motile and progressively motile spermatozoa between the AnVfractions and control samples. In conclusion, the MACS technique has no harmful effect on the rabbit sperm concentration and motility.
Biofilm formation and adhesive/invasive properties of Candida dubliniensis in comparison with Candida albicans
Authors: Kolecka Anna , Zavrel Martin , Hernandez-Barbado Rosa , Rupp Steffen , Bujdakova Helena
Published: November 2011

Candida dubliniensis and Candida albicans are closely related spp. exhibiting differences in their virulence potency. This study compared clinical isolates of C. dubliniensis with C. albicans from HIV patients with oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) and standard strains in power to form biofilm and their adhesive and invasive properties. Members of both spp. were able to form strong biofilms. However, SEM microscopy confirmed that C. albicans undergoes the more effective yeast-to-hyphae transition than C. dubliniensis with prevalent yeast form and limited ability to form filaments. Kinetic patterns indicated that while the first 30 min are critical for sufficient attachment to a polystyrene surface, adhesion to human carcinoma cell lines (Caco-2 and TR 146) needs additional time with maximal saturation observed at 240 min for both spp. The invasion process was tested on 3D RHE (reconstituted human epithelium) with Caco-2 or TR 146 on the collagen surface. C. albicans rapidly produced hyphae that penetrated the tissue layer, demonstrating substantive invasion within 21 h. In contrast, C. dubliniensis attached to the tissue surface and proliferated, suggesting the formation of a biofilm-like structure. After 21 h, C. dubliniensis was able to penetrate the RHE layer and invade unusually, with a cluster of the yeast cells.
Regionalizing Aquatic Ecosystems Based on the River Subbasin Taxonomy Concept and Spatial Clustering Techniques
Authors: Gao Yongnian , Gao Junfeng , Chen Jiongfeng , Xu Yan , Zhao Jiahu
Published: November 2011

Aquatic ecoregions were increasingly used as spatial units for aquatic ecosystem management at the watershed scale. In this paper, the principle of including land area, comprehensiveness and dominance, conjugation and hierarchy were selected as regionalizing principles. Elevation and drainage density were selected as the regionalizing indicators for the delineation of level I aquatic ecoregions, and percent of construction land area, percent of cultivated land area, soil type and slope for the level II. Under the support of GIS technology, the spatial distribution maps of the two indicators for level I and the four indicators for level II aquatic ecoregion delineation were generated from the raster data based on the 1,107 subwatersheds. River subbasin taxonomy concept, two-step spatial clustering analysis approach and manual-assisted method were used to regionalize aquatic ecosystems in the Taihu Lake watershed. Then the Taihu Lake watershed was divided into two level I aquatic ecoregions, including Ecoregion I1 and Ecoregion I2, and five level II aquatic subecoregions, including Subecoregion II11, Subecoregion II12, Subecoregion II21, Subecoregion II22 and Subecoregion II23. Moreover, the characteristics of the two level I aquatic ecoregions and five level II aquatic subecoregions in the Taihu Lake watershed were summarized, showing that there were significant differences in topography, socio-economic development, water quality and aquatic ecology, etc. The results of quantitative comparison of aquatic life also indicated that the dominant species of fish, benthic density, biomass, dominant species, Shannon-Wiener diversity index, Margalef species richness index, Pielou evenness index and ecological dominance showed great spatial variability between the two level I aquatic ecoregions and five level II aquatic subecoregions. It reflected the spatial heterogeneities and the uneven natures of aquatic ecosystems in the Taihu Lake watershed.
Transpersonal Psychology: Mapping Spiritual Experience
Authors: Judy Dwight
Published: November 2011

The first Journal of Transpersonal Psychology was published in 1969. Since this signal event, transpersonal psychology has emerged as a field of theory and application. A way has been made in Western psychology for the appreciation and study of interior subjective awareness, the domain of spiritual experience. One of the most recent contributions, the Wilber-Combs Lattice, offers a typology to account for both developmental processes throughout the human life span, as well as different qualities of spiritual experience.
Segmented interlocking nail: An in vivo evaluation of a novel humeral osteotomy fixation device in a caprine model
Authors: Montgomery R. D. , Edmondson M. A. , Stephens T. J.
Published: November 2011

Objectives: To describe a novel humeral fixation device, the insertion technique, healing of humeral osteotomies, and clinical outcomes in a caprine model over a six month period.

Methods: Fourteen mature female Boer/Nubian cross goats with a mean body weight of 50.7 kg were implanted with a proprietary segmented interlocking nail (SILN) in both humeri. Each goat had one humerus randomly selected for mid-diaphyseal osteotomy.

Results: Immediately after surgery all but one goat was able to stand, although none of the goats were weight bearing on the osteotomy limb. During the six month study, clinical lameness was always associated with the osteotomy limb. One month after surgery, lameness for twelve of the goats was grade 2/5 or better. At three months, 11 of the 14 did not exhibit any signs of lameness. On radio-graphic images, notable malalignment of the osteotomy was observed, although all osteotomies went to bone union.

Clinical significance: The results of this study suggest that despite misalignment, the SILN maintained adequate osteotomy fixation to achieve bone union in the research model studied, with reduced morbidity and early return to function with bilateral implantation. The SILN used in this study allowed intramedullary fixation of humeral diaphyseal osteotomies with a limited and safe surgical approach.
Highly efficient cyclosarin degradation mediated by a β-cyclodextrin derivative containing an oxime-derived substituent
Authors: Zengerle Michael , Brandhuber Florian , Schneider Christian , Worek Franz , Reiter Georg , Kubik Stefan
Published: November 2011

The potential of appropriately substituted cyclodextrins to act as scavengers for neurotoxic organophosphonates under physiological conditions was evaluated. To this end, a series of derivatives containing substituents with an aldoxime or a ketoxime moiety along the narrow opening of the β-cyclodextrin cavity was synthesized, and the ability of these compounds to reduce the inhibitory effect of the neurotoxic organophosphonate cyclosarin on its key target, acetylcholinesterase, was assessed in vitro. All compounds exhibited a larger effect than native β-cyclodextrin, and characteristic differences were noted. These differences in activity were correlated with the structural and electronic parameters of the substituents. In addition, the relatively strong effect of the cyclodextrin derivatives on cyclosarin degradation and, in particular, the observed enantioselectivity are good indications that noncovalent interactions between the cyclodextrin ring and the substrate, presumably involving the inclusion of the cyclohexyl moiety of cyclosarin into the cyclodextrin cavity, contribute to the mode of action. Among the nine compounds investigated, one exhibited remarkable activity, completely preventing acetylcholinesterase inhibition by the (−)-enantiomer of cyclosarin within seconds under the conditions of the assay. Thus, these investigations demonstrate that decoration of cyclodextrins with appropriate substituents represents a promising approach for the development of scavengers able to detoxify highly toxic nerve agents.
FAULT DETECTION IN DISCRETE DYNAMIC SYSTEMS WITH UNCERTAINTY BASED ON INTERVAL OPTIMIZATION
Authors: Li Wei , Tian Xiaoli
Published: November 2011

The imprecision and the uncertainty of many systems can be expressed with interval models. This paper presents a method for fault detection in uncertain discrete dynamic systems. First, the discrete dynamic system with uncertain parameters is formulated as an interval optimization model. In this model, we also assume that there are some errors of observation values of the inputs/outputs. Then, M. Hladík's newly proposed algorithm is exploited for this model. Some numerical examples are also included to illustrate the method efficiency.
POSITIVE SOLUTIONS BIFURCATING FROM ZERO SOLUTION IN A PREDATOR-PREY REACTION–DIFFUSION SYSTEM
Authors: Zhang Cun-Hua , Yan Xiang-Ping
Published: November 2011

An elliptic system subject to the homogeneous Dirichlet boundary con- dition denoting the steady-state system of a two-species predator-prey reaction– diffusion system with the modified Leslie–Gower and Holling-type II schemes is con- sidered. By using the Lyapunov–Schmidt reduction method, the bifurcation of the positive solution from the trivial solution is demonstrated and the approximated ex- pressions of the positive solutions around the bifurcation point are also given accord- ing to the implicit function theorem. Finally, by applying the linearized method, the stability of the bifurcating positive solution is also investigated. The results obtained in the present paper improved the existing ones.
La recherche sur les embryons et le droit pénal : entre prohibition et permissivité ?
Authors: Kourelis Maria , Isasi Rosario , Knoppers Bartha M.
Published: November 2011

L’outil législatif préféré par plusieurs États, l’instauration du droit pénal pour règlementer la recherche sur les embryons humains surnuméraires et sur les cellules souches embryonnaires humaines (CSEh) est une tendance réelle parmi la majorité des États. En effet, nous constaterons que deux approches principales législatives sont adoptées par les États pour encadrer ce secteur de recherche par la voie pénale, soit l’approche restrictive ou mixte. De plus, nous démontrerons que l’adoption de l’approche restrictive ou mixte reflète certains cadres conceptuels de droit pénal, plus précisément ceux de la théorie de justice rétributive ou de la théorie réductionniste. Enfin, nous établirons comment la législation pénale sert comme outil de valeurs, ou outil fédératif, parmi les États qui choisissent cette voie législative.
Europol, quoi de neuf ? Une approche critique de la décision Europol
Authors: de Moor Alexandra , Vermeulen Gert
Published: November 2011

Longtemps attendue, la décision Europol (2009) remplace la convention Europol (1995) et transforme l’Office de police européen, qui était une organisation intergouvernementale, en une agence de l’Union Européenne (UE). Cette contribution fait une analyse critique des innovations que cette décision apporte (« quoi de neuf ? »), ainsi que des choix opérés. Ceux-ci seront examinés selon six angles d’approche : la base juridique d’Europol, son objectif, la compétence qui lui est dévolue, les fonctions qui lui sont assignées, sa gouvernance et son contrôle. Ils seront évalués selon le triple critère de la nécessité, de la consistance et de la proportionnalité. Nous verrons aussi ce qui, au terme des négociations, n’a pas été retenu dans la décision. Cet article a pour ambition de donner une description nuancée de la décision Europol, qui, bien que moins originale qu’il n’y paraît, laisse néanmoins augurer d’un avenir nouveau pour l’Office de police européen.
L'évolution du paysage européen en matière de liberté et de sécurité : rapport à mi-parcours sur le projet challenge
Authors: Bigo Didier , Carrera Sergio , Guild Elspeth , Walker Rob B. J.
Published: November 2011

Résumé Nous nous proposons de soumettre à une évaluation critique les libertés des citoyens et des autres habitants de l’UE, et la façon dont elles sont affectées par la multiplication des discours sur l’insécurité, ainsi que les pratiques rassurantes, protectrices et coercitives des gouvernements et des organismes transnationaux adoptées au nom de la sécurité des citoyens ou de la collectivité. La présente étude décrit l’échange d’informations sur l’identité des citoyens au moyen de nouvelles techniques de surveillance et de contrôle, ainsi que son rôle central. Elle analyse tout d’abord la radicalisation manifeste de formes spécifiques de violence politique transnationale et les effets qui en résultent sur les politiques libérales ; puis les évaluations de la menace effectuées au moyen des technologies de gestion du risque et des nouvelles technologies de surveillance ; l’évolution des formes prises par la logique de suspicion et les pratiques dérogatoires et d’exception, en particulier par rapport aux conceptions bien établies de l’état de droit, à la reconstruction multidimensionnelle et permanente de l’ennemi?; ensuite leurs effets sur les droits et libertés des nationaux et des étrangers ; enfin le rapport existant entre l’impact interne et l’impact externe des pratiques illibérales, dans le contexte des relations trans-atlantiques en particulier, mais aussi dans celui d’un ordre mondial de plus en plus interconnecté, et la place qu’y occupe l’Union européenne.
Preliminary Exploration of the Use of a Medical Malpractice Self-Study Module
Authors: Nellis Deborah L. , George Lynn
Published: November 2011

This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of an educational module on medical malpractice litigation and the use of evidence-based practice guidelines. Data regarding knowledge acquisition, ease of use, and the perceived value of the educational module were collected. A pretest-posttest design was used. There was a statistically significant difference in the proportion of participants who responded correctly to the posttest items after viewing the educational program (
p
< .05). Data from this study indicated that this self-study module was a valuable tool for education on the specified content. This study also provides evidence of the effectiveness of integrating theory, clinical inquiry, and evidence-based practice into a self-paced educational program about medical malpractice litigation. Evaluation of a self-paced educational program contributes to the body of knowledge on the use of educational strategies to promote patient safety and reduce liability.
Optimization of a Cytochrome-P450-Monooxygenase-1A-Mediated EROD Assay in the Cape Hake Species Merluccius capensis and Merluccius paradoxus (Pisces)
Authors: De Almeida Louise , Froneman William , Pletschke Brett
Published: November 2011

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase 1A (CYP1A) is induced by several planar toxic compounds, for example, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and the induction of this protein is often measured in terms of CYP1A-mediated 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity. This study was aimed at developing this assay in the Cape hake species Merluccius capensis and Merluccius paradoxus (considered one stock). Microsomal fractions were obtained from frozen fish liver samples by differential centrifugation. Fluorimetric and spectrophotometric analysis of the EROD assay resulted in the spectrophotometric (at 572 nm) detection method being selected, as this method resulted in a lower degree of variability and demonstrated higher reproducibility. The activity in the EROD assay was enhanced in the presence of NADPH, and the addition of dicumarol (phase II enzyme inhibitor) to the reaction mixtures prevented the underestimation of this assay by the inhibition of DT-diaphorase. In summary, an EROD assay was established for use in Cape hake species.
Genomic Insights into the Different Layers of Gene Regulation in Yeast
Authors: Pérez-Ortín José E. , Medina Daniel A. , Jordán-Pla Antonio
Published: November 2011

The model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae has allowed the development of new functional genomics techniques devoted to the study of transcription in all its stages. With these techniques, it has been possible to find interesting new mechanisms to control gene expression that act at different levels and for different gene sets apart from the known cis-trans regulation in the transcription initiation step. Here we discuss a method developed in our laboratory, Genomic Run-On, and other new methods that have recently appeared with distinct technical features. A comparison between the datasets generated by them provides interesting genomic insights into the different layers of gene regulation in eukaryotes.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with acute lung injury and ARDS
Authors: Bhadade RR , de Souza RA , Harde MJ , Khot A
Published: November 2011

Background:

Acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are critical illnesses associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

Aims:

This was designed to assess various etiologies of ALI/ARDS, to determine the correlation between the diagnostic criteria and need of mechanical ventilation, and to correlate biochemical factors with the outcome of patients.

Settings and Design:

An observational, prospective study was conducted in a medical intensive care unit (MICU) of a tertiary care hospital, for a period of 1 year.

Materials and Methods:

This study encompassed 58 consecutive cases of ALI/ARDS admitted to a MICU as per AECC guidelines. Patients excluded were with cardiac failure, chronic kidney diseases with fluid overload, and age below 12 years.

Statistical Analysis:

The data were analysed applying χ2 -test, multivariate logistic regression analysis of significance, using computer-based program SPSS.

Results:

There were more males (74%) than females, and presentation was more common in the younger age group, with a total mortality of 57%. Factors attributable for ALI/ARDS were malaria in 16 patients (27.6%), leptospirosis in 12 (20.7%), malaria with dengue in 3 (5.2%), undiagnosed fever in 16 (27.6%), pneumonia in 8 (13.8%), urinary tract infection in 2 (3.4%), and pancreatitis in 1 (1.7%) patient. Out of 41 patients with PaO2/FiO2 <200, 40 patients required invasive ventilation, and out of 17 patients with PaO2/FiO2 >200, 11 patients though initially managed on noninvasive ventilation (NIV) subsequently required invasive ventilation, and remaining six were successfully managed on NIV. Out of 41 patients requiring mechanical ventilation, 36 had LIS >2.5, whereas only 3 out of 17 patients with LIS <2.5 required mechanical ventilation.

Conclusion:

Malaria, leptospirosis, and undiagnosed fever were the main etiologies followed by pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and pancreatitis. Both the PaO2/FiO2 ratio and lung injury score (LIS) at the time of admission were significant predictors of the outcome and of necessity of mechanical ventilation. PaO2/FiO2 was a better predictor of duration of stay at the intensive care unit than the LIS. Sepsis, acidosis, hypotension, and multiorgan failure were individual predictors of mortality in patients with ALI/ARDS while age, sex, anemia, thrombocytopenia, renal failure, hepatic failure, and X-ray picture were not predictors of the outcome.
An evaluation of the effect of atorvastatin on memory and psychomotor functions in hypertensive patients
Authors: Prajapati S , Desai CK , Dikshit RK
Published: November 2011

Background:

The effect of statins on memory and psychomotor function has been controversial and needs further evaluation.

Aims:

To evaluate the effect of atorvastatin on memory and psychomotor functions in hypertensive patients treated with enalapril or amlodipine.

Settings and Design:

Prospective, comparative, non-randomized, before-after, open-label clinical study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Western India.

Materials and Methods:

Memory was evaluated with PGI (Post Graduate Institute, Chandigarh) Memory Scale, while psychomotor functions were evaluated with Digit Letter Substitution test, Six Letter Cancellation test, and Finger Tapping test at baseline, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months of starting atorvastatin in 74 hypertensive patients who were prescribed either enalapril or amlodipine with or without atorvastatin 10 mg/day. Scores obtained in patients receiving enalapril or amlodipine were compared with those receiving these drugs along with atorvastatin. Memory and psychomotor functions of 12 healthy volunteers were also evaluated and compared with those of the patients at respective time periods.

Statistical Analysis:

Student's t test, Wilcoxon Signed Rank test, and Mann Whitney U test were used to compare the pre- and post-treatment scores of memory and psychomotor functions in various groups. Statistical significance was considered at P<0.05.

Results:

A statistically significant improvement in scores of memory and psychomotor functions was observed in both healthy volunteers (P=0.009 and P=0.016) and hypertensive patients (P=0.008 and P=0.031) throughout the study period. Memory and psychomotor function in hypertensive patients remained significantly inferior to those of healthy volunteers (P=0.01 and P=0.018). There was no significant difference in the scores of memory and psychomotor functions between patients receiving atorvastatin and those not receiving this drug.

Conclusion:

Atorvastatin, at 10 mg/day dose, does not have any significant effect on memory and psychomotor functions in hypertensive patients treated with enalapril or amlodipine.
Severe and critical cases of H1N1 influenza in pregnancy
Authors: Liu J , Li Q , Cui H , Liu C
Published: November 2011

Context:

In 2009, an outbreak of A/H1N1 influenza spread worldwide. Following the start of winter in Liaoning province in China, the number of pregnant women infected with influenza increased significantly. Some of them developed respiratory failure and multiple organ failure.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to determine the high-risk factors associated with the development of critical illness in the hospitalized pregnant women with A/H1N1 infection.

Settings and Design:

This retrospective cohort study was carried out in the tertiary care obstetric department of a large general hospital.

Materials and Methods:

The clinical data of H1N1 pregnant women hospitalized from November 2009 to January 2010 was reviewed. We classified these cases into severe and critical grades according to H1N1 influenza treatment guidelines. We selected maternal age, gestational age, and the time interval between symptom-onset and hospital admission as related factors of critical illness.

Statistical Analysis:

Logistic regression analyses to determine the relevance and importance of factors significantly associated with critical illness.

Results:

Eighteen cases of H1N1 influenza pregnant women were admitted. Ten pregnant women were severe cases and eight pregnant women were critical cases. The maternal age (OR=0.979, 95% CI: 0.749~1.279)and the time interval between symptom-onset and hospital admission (OR=1.41, 95% CI: 0.917~2.169) were not found to be risk factors for critical cases. The significant risk factor associated with critical illness is gestational age (OR=53.726, 95% CI: 131.165~2477.918). The risk varied by weeks of gestation, with an odds ratio of 1.034 (95% CI: 0.968-1.106) during the first trimester, 9.667 (95% CI: 0.750-124.59) during the second trimester, and 87 (95% CI: 6.750-1121.39) during the third trimester.

Conclusions:

Gestational age is associated with the risk of developing critical infection. The risk increases with increasing weeks of gestation.
Diabetes insipidus as the first symptom caused by lung cancer metastasis to the pituitary glands
Authors: Mao JF , Zhang JL , Nie M , Lu SH , Wu XY
Published: November 2011

Background:

Central diabetes insipidus (CDI), secondary to pituitary metastatic lesions, is uncommon; however, lung and breast cancer are the commonest malignancies to have metastases to the pituitary. Early management of systemic chemotherapy and pituitary irradiation might improve the prognosis of patients.

Aims:

To investigate the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of CDI caused by lung cancer metastasis to the pituitary glands.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 10 patients who had CDI as their first symptom before their lung cancers were diagnosed. Their clinical presentations, anterior pituitary gland function, sellar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), management, and prognosis were described.

Settings and Design:

This retrospective cross-sectional clinical study was conducted in a medical college hospital.

Results:

The patient's mean age was 58.6±7.8 years. Diabetes insipidus was the main complaint when they were referred to our hospital. MRI revealed specific dumbbell-shaped masses in the sella turcica in five patients. In seven patients whose hormones were measured, the levels of hormones from adenohypophysis were abnormally low in six patients. The main treatments included surgery, systemic chemotherapy, and sellar irradiation. Although nine patients had poor prognoses, one patient has survived for more than 3 years, suggesting benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusions:

New-onset CDI might be the only symptom presented by the patients with pituitary metastasis (PM) from lung cancer. Dumbbell-shaped sellar masses in MRI are prone to the diagnosis of PM. A thorough examination for primary cancer should be carried out in these aged and elderly patients.
Leiomyosarcoma of inferior vena cava
Authors: Jadhav SA , Atluri VS , Prajapati R , Satoskar RR
Published: November 2011

Malignancy arising from the blood vessels is a very rare finding in daily clinical practice. In addition, the finding can often be misdiagnosed and ill-treated. These tumors usually go unnoticed unless it has metastasized to distant tissues. Among these rare tumors, leiomyosarcoma is the most common. It mostly arises in the inferior vena cava (IVC). Clinical signs and symptoms are very vague. Usually it is often misdiagnosed as an abscess cavity in the liver or primary hepatic malignancy (when present at level II) or as a thrombus in the IVC. Radiological investigations are the key to proper diagnosis. Depending upon the exact location, further treatment options vary. Generally, it is believed that level II and level III tumors are amenable to surgery followed by chemo or radiotherapy. We present a rare case of leiomyosarcoma of IVC at level II being diagnosed with proper radiological investigations and its management with further stress on offering chemo-radiotherapy after its surgical removal as compared to only surgery performed earlier. This case report will throw some light on the proper management of such rare tumors in terms of their exact diagnosis and treatment in order to prolong patient survival.
Air quality trends in Europe over the past decade: a first multi-model assessment
Authors: Colette A. , Granier C. , Hodnebrog Ø. , Jakobs H. , Maurizi A. , Nyiri A. , Bessagnet B. , D'Angiola A. , D'Isidoro M. , Gauss M. , Meleux F. , Memmesheimer M. , Mieville A. , Rouïl L. , Russo F. , Solberg S. , Stordal F. , Tampieri F.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. We discuss the capability of current state-of-the-art chemistry and transport models to reproduce air quality trends and interannual variability. Documenting these strengths and weaknesses on the basis of historical simulations is essential before the models are used to investigate future air quality projections. To achieve this, a coordinated modelling exercise was performed in the framework of the CityZEN European Project. It involved six regional and global chemistry-transport models (BOLCHEM, CHIMERE, EMEP, EURAD, OSLOCTM2 and MOZART) simulating air quality over the past decade in the Western European anthropogenic emissions hotspots. Comparisons between models and observations allow assessing the skills of the models to capture the trends in basic atmospheric constituents (NO2, O3, and PM10). We find that the trends of primary constituents are well reproduced (except in some countries – owing to their sensitivity to the emission inventory) although capturing the more moderate trends of secondary species such as O3 is more challenging. Apart from the long term trend, the modelled monthly variability is consistent with the observations but the year-to-year variability is generally underestimated. A comparison of simulations where anthropogenic emissions are kept constant is also investigated. We find that the magnitude of the emission-driven trend exceeds the natural variability for primary compounds. We can thus conclude that emission management strategies have had a significant impact over the past 10 yr, hence supporting further emission reductions.