bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“I Don’t Need a Shotgun, Just a Look”
Authors: Sumerau J. Edward , Barringer M. N. , Cragun Ryan T.
Published: December 2014

In this article, we examine gender representations in secular and religious media. Based on comparative content analysis of six secular and religious magazines, we analyze how both types of media represented manhood in ways that facilitate the elevation of men at the expense of women. Specifically, we demonstrate how religious and secular magazines represented fatherly and spousal manhood by emphasizing inherent gender differences, male leadership, protection and control, and reasons to excuse men for failing to live up to familial and marital expectations. In conclusion, we draw out implications for understanding the importance of comparative analyses of secular and religious media, the insights that such analyses provide for the study of contemporary secular and religious dynamics, and the reproduction of gender inequalities.
Office lighting and personal light exposures in two seasons: Impact on sleep and mood
Authors: Figueiro MG , Rea MS
Published: December 2014

Lighting design for office buildings has focused largely on providing sufficient light for visual performance, minimal glare, good colour rendering and energy conservation. Little attention has been given to understanding how light affects the non-visual systems, including circadian regulation that affects sleep and mood. Circadian light–dark and activity–rest patterns of individuals working in a building designed to provide daylight availability in the space were obtained in winter and summer. Measures of objective and subjective sleep and self-reports of mood were also obtained from participants. Results show a significant increase in light exposure during summer. Sleep quantity and quality were also significantly higher in summer than in winter. Strategies to increase circadian light exposures in buildings should be a consideration in architectural design.
BDNF Induced by Treadmill Training Contributes to the Suppression of Spasticity and Allodynia After Spinal Cord Injury via Upregulation of KCC2
Authors: Tashiro Syoichi , Shinozaki Munehisa , Mukaino Masahiko , Renault-Mihara François , Toyama Yoshiaki , Liu Meigen , Nakamura Masaya , Okano Hideyuki
Published: December 2014

Background. Spasticity and allodynia are major sequelae that affect the quality of life and daily activities of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. Although rehabilitation ameliorates spasticity and allodynia, the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes remain elusive. Objective. To investigate the molecular mechanisms by which rehabilitation ameliorates spasticity and allodynia after SCI in rats. Methods. The expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and potassium-chloride cotransporter-2 (KCC2), as well as the localization of KCC2, were examined in the lumbar enlargements of untrained and treadmill-trained thoracic SCI model rats. Spasticity and allodynia were determined via behavioral and electrophysiological analyses. The effects of BDNF on spasticity, allodynia, and KCC2 activation were determined by inhibition of BDNF signaling via intrathecal administration of TrkB-IgG. The effects of SCI and training on the expression levels of functional phospholipase C-γ in the lumbar enlargement were also examined. Results. Treadmill training after SCI upregulated endogenous BDNF expression and posttranslational modification of KCC2 in the lumbar enlargement significantly. There were also significant correlations between increased KCC2 expression and ameliorated spasticity and allodynia. Administration of TrkB-IgG abrogated the training-induced upregulation of KCC2 and beneficial effects on spasticity and allodynia. The expression level of functional phospholipase C-γ was reduced significantly after SCI, which may have contributed to the change in the function of BDNF, whereby it did not trigger short-term downregulation or induce long-term upregulation of KCC2 expression secondary to training. Conclusions. BDNF-mediated restoration of KCC2 expression underlies the suppression of spasticity and allodynia caused by rehabilitation.
Macroscopic Anomalies and Pathological Findings in and Around the Achilles Tendon
Authors: Johansson Kristian , Lempainen Lasse , Sarimo Janne , Laitala-Leinonen Tiina , Orava Sakari
Published: December 2014

Background:

Nonsurgical treatments for chronic Achilles tendinopathy (AT) results in unpredictable success rates. Surgical treatment may be chosen as reports show mostly encouraging but variable success rates depending on the pathology. The distribution of surgically confirmed pathologies in AT is largely unknown.

Purpose:

To ascertain the distributions of macroscopically observed anomalies in participants undergoing surgical treatment for chronic AT.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The main macroscopic pathologies of 1661 chronic Achilles tendon overuse injuries, which were diagnosed and surgically treated by a single surgeon, were reviewed. The surgeries were performed on professional and recreational athletes during the years 1976-1980, 1986-1990, 1996-2000, and 2006-2010. Surgical diagnoses, along with age- and sport-specific characteristics, were collected retrospectively from patient records.

Results:

The relative proportion of tendinosis increased during the study period from 4.2% to 21%, and paratenonitis decreased from 50% to 26%. Retrocalcaneal pathologies were the most common surgically confirmed lesions at 30%, while the mean age at surgery increased by 11 years over the entire study period.

Conclusion:

Surgically confirmed pathologies in and around the Achilles tendon showed coherent changes, chronic paratenonitis, and retrocalcaneal problems as the most prevalent findings. The classification of midportion and insertional tendinopathy and retrocalcaneal bursitis in AT should strictly be used as a clinical diagnosis. During surgical evaluations, the diagnosis is further clarified as more specific pathologies may be identified.
Thriving beyond survival: Understanding utilization of perinatal health services as predictors of birth registration: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Jackson Michelle , Duff Putu , Kusumaningrum Santi , Stark Lindsay
Published: December 2014

Background

There are an estimated 35 million unregistered children in Indonesia. To understand ways to best leverage existing health system-related resources and ensure greater protective measures for these vulnerable children, this study explores the predictive relationship between the utilization of perinatal health services and birth certificate ownership in two Indonesian provinces.

Methods

This study employed a cross-sectional design with interviewer-administered household surveys to heads of households in West Nusa Tenggara and East Nusa Tenggara from May to July of 2013. The primary outcome of interest was birth certificate ownership among children under the age of 5 years old. Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses using Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) considered a set of covariates that represented child and household socio-demographic characteristics along with health services utilization variables during pregnancy and post-pregnancy periods.

Results

389 heads of households were interviewed, yielding data on a sample of 451 children under the age of 5. Fewer than 28% of children in this sample possessed a birth certificate. Nearly 57% (n = 259) of children were delivered in a clinical facility, though only 36% (n = 93) of these were legally registered. Of children born in the home (n = 194), registration dropped to 16% (n = 31). Adjusted analyses accounting for socio-demographic factors suggest that children born in a clinic facility (AOR = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.27, 4.33), hospital (AOR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.12, 5.09), or in the presence of a skilled birth attendant (AOR = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.31, 4.23) were significantly more likely to be registered. Children whose mothers sought post-natal care were 2.99 times more likely to possess a birth certificate (AOR = 2.99, 95% CI: 1.1, 7.57). Pre-natal care was not associated with birth registration.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that use of perinatal health services increases the likelihood of registering a child’s birth despite a lack of formal integration of vital registration with the health sector. Formally leveraging existing community-based health workers and perinatal services may serve to further increase registration rates in hard to reach areas of Indonesia.
A novel model of demyelination and remyelination in a GFP-transgenic zebrafish
Authors: Fang Yangwu , Lei Xudan , Li Xiang , Chen Yanan , Xu Fei , Feng Xizeng , Wei Shihui , Li Yuhao
Published: December 2014

Demyelinating diseases consist of a variety of autoimmune conditions in which the myelin sheath is damaged due to genetic and/or environmental factors. During clinical treatment, some patients undergo partial remyelination, especially during the early disease stages. However, the mechanisms that regulate demyelination remain unclear. The myelin structure, myelin formation and myelin-related gene expression are highly conserved between mammals and zebrafish. Therefore, the zebrafish is an ideal model organism to study myelination. In this study, we generated a transgenic zebrafish Tg(mbp:nfsB-egfp) expressing a fusion protein composed of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and NTR from the myelin basic protein (mbp) promoter. Tg(mbp:nfsB-egfp) expressed NTR-EGFP reproducibly and hereditarily in oligodendrocytes along the spinal cord. Treatment of zebrafish larvae Tg(mbp:nfsB-egfp) with metronidazole (Mtz) resulted in the selective ablation of oligodendrocytes and led to demyelination, accompanied by behavioral changes, including decreased total movement distance, velocity, total movement time and fast movement time. After withdrawal of Mtz for a seven day recovery period, the expression of EGFP and MBP protein was observed again which indicates remyelination. Additionally, locomotor capacity was restored. Collectively, Tg(mbp:nfsB-egfp), a heritable and stable transgenic line, provides a novel, powerful tool to study the mechanisms of demyelination and remyelination.
Rab11a is required for apical protein localisation in the intestine
Authors: Sobajima Tomoaki , Yoshimura Shin-ichiro , Iwano Tomohiko , Kunii Masataka , Watanabe Masahiko , Atik Nur , Mushiake Sotaro , Morii Eiichi , Koyama Yoshihisa , Miyoshi Eiji , Harada Akihiro
Published: December 2014

The small GTPase Rab11 plays an important role in the recycling of proteins to the plasma membrane as well as in polarised transport in epithelial cells and neurons. We generated conditional knockout mice deficient in Rab11a. Rab11a-deficient mice are embryonic lethal, and brain-specific Rab11a knockout mice show no overt abnormalities in brain architecture. In contrast, intestine-specific Rab11a knockout mice begin dying approximately 1 week after birth. Apical proteins in the intestines of knockout mice accumulate in the cytoplasm and mislocalise to the basolateral plasma membrane, whereas the localisation of basolateral proteins is unaffected. Shorter microvilli and microvillus inclusion bodies are also observed in the knockout mice. Elevation of a serum starvation marker was also observed, likely caused by the mislocalisation of apical proteins and reduced nutrient uptake. In addition, Rab8a is mislocalised in Rab11a knockout mice. Conversely, Rab11a is mislocalised in Rab8a knockout mice and in a microvillus atrophy patient, which has a mutation in the myosin Vb gene. Our data show an essential role for Rab11a in the localisation of apical proteins in the intestine and demonstrate functional relationships between Rab11a, Rab8a and myosin Vb in vivo.
Fast-starting after a breath: air-breathing motions are kinematically similar to escape responses in the catfish Hoplosternum littorale
Authors: Domenici Paolo , Norin Tommy , Bushnell Peter G. , Johansen Jacob L. , Skov Peter Vilhelm , Svendsen Morten B. S. , Steffensen John F. , Abe Augusto S.
Published: December 2014

Fast-starts are brief accelerations commonly observed in fish within the context of predator–prey interactions. In typical C-start escape responses, fish react to a threatening stimulus by bending their body into a C-shape during the first muscle contraction (i.e. stage 1) which provides a sudden acceleration away from the stimulus. Recently, similar C-starts have been recorded in fish aiming at a prey. Little is known about C-starts outside the context of predator–prey interactions, though recent work has shown that escape response can also be induced by high temperature. Here, we test the hypothesis that air-breathing fish may use C-starts in the context of gulping air at the surface. Hoplosternum littorale is an air-breathing freshwater catfish found in South America. Field video observations reveal that their air-breathing behaviour consists of air-gulping at the surface, followed by a fast turn which re-directs the fish towards the bottom. Using high-speed video in the laboratory, we compared the kinematics of the turn immediately following air-gulping performed by H. littorale in normoxia with those of mechanically-triggered C-start escape responses and with routine (i.e. spontaneous) turns. Our results show that air-breathing events overlap considerably with escape responses with a large stage 1 angle in terms of turning rates, distance covered and the relationship between these rates. Therefore, these two behaviours can be considered kinematically comparable, suggesting that air-breathing in this species is followed by escape-like C-start motions, presumably to minimise time at the surface and exposure to avian predators. These findings show that C-starts can occur in a variety of contexts in which fish may need to get away from areas of potential danger.
Professorial Reflections: Informal discussions and reflections
Authors: Sellers-Young Barbara , Meyer-Dinkgräfe Daniel
Published: December 2014

We open our issue with ‘Professorial Reflections’ – an informal, but nonetheless productive discussion about researching spirituality in dance and performance studies. We aim to offer this type of discussion, between different leading professors in dance and performance studies, in subsequent issues of DMAS. Our intention here is to open dialogue about spirituality in these fields, through informal discussion, with the aim of supporting new areas of research.
Annotation of genomics data using bidirectional hidden Markov models unveils variations in Pol II transcription cycle
Authors: Zacher Benedikt , Lidschreiber Michael , Cramer Patrick , Gagneur Julien , Tresch Achim
Published: December 2014

DNA replication, transcription and repair involve the recruitment of protein complexes that change their composition as they progress along the genome in a directed or strand‐specific manner. Chromatin immunoprecipitation in conjunction with hidden Markov models (HMMs) has been instrumental in understanding these processes, as they segment the genome into discrete states that can be related to DNA‐associated protein complexes. However, current HMM‐based approaches are not able to assign forward or reverse direction to states or properly integrate strand‐specific (e.g., RNA expression) with non‐strand‐specific (e.g., ChIP) data, which is indispensable to accurately characterize directed processes. To overcome these limitations, we introduce bidirectional HMMs which infer directed genomic states from occupancy profilesde novo. Application to RNA polymerase II‐associated factors in yeast and chromatin modifications in human T cells recovers the majority of transcribed loci, reveals gene‐specific variations in the yeast transcription cycle and indicates the existence of directed chromatin state patterns at transcribed, but not at repressed, regions in the human genome. In yeast, we identify 32 new transcribed loci, a regulated initiation–elongation transition, the absence of elongation factors Ctk1 and Paf1 from a class of genes, a distinct transcription mechanism for highly expressed genes and novel DNA sequence motifs associated with transcription termination. We anticipate bidirectional HMMs to significantly improve the analyses of genome‐associated directed processes.
Standard immunohistochemistry efficiently screens for anaplastic lymphoma kinase rearrangements in differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Park Gahee , Kim Tae Hyuk , Lee Hae-Ock , Lim Jung Ah , Won Jae-Kyung , Min Hye Sook , Lee Kyu Eun , Park Do Joon , Park Young Joo , Park Woong-Yang
Published: December 2014

The anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene is frequently rearranged in various types of cancer and is highly responsive to targeted therapeutics. We developed a system to detect rearrangement of ALK in a large group of Korean thyroid cancer patients. We screened 474 malignant or benign thyroid tumor cases to identify ALK fusions. Expression and translocation of the ALK gene were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and digital multiplexed gene expression (DMGE) analysis in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues. Four cases of rearrangement of ALK were detected by IHC, and these cases were validated with FISH on 189 samples. On the other hand, DMGE analysis using Nanostring detected three out of four IHC-positive cases. Two rearrangements of ALK were striatin (STRN)–ALK fusions, which were identified by 5′ RACE analysis. Rearrangements of ALK were found exclusively in v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) WT papillary carcinomas. Given the wide availability and accuracy of IHC for detecting ectopic expression of ALK in the thyroid, we suggest that IHC-based screening can be a practical method for identifying patients with ALK rearrangements in differentiated thyroid cancer.
Modulation of monocarboxylate transporter 8 oligomerization by specific pathogenic mutations
Authors: Fischer Jana , Kleinau Gunnar , Müller Anne , Kühnen Peter , Zwanziger Denise , Kinne Anita , Rehders Maren , Moeller Lars C , Führer Dagmar , Grüters Annette , Krude Heiko , Brix Klaudia , Biebermann Heike
Published: December 2014

The monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) is a member of the major facilitator superfamily (MFS). These membrane-spanning proteins facilitate translocation of a variety of substrates, MCT8 specifically transports iodothyronines. Mutations in MCT8 are the underlying cause of severe X-linked psychomotor retardation. At the molecular level, such mutations led to deficiencies in substrate translocation due to reduced cell-surface expression, impaired substrate binding, or decreased substrate translocation capabilities. However, the causal relationships between genotypes, molecular features of mutated MCT8, and patient characteristics have not yet been comprehensively deciphered. We investigated the relationship between pathogenic mutants of MCT8 and their capacity to form dimers (presumably oligomeric structures) as a potential regulatory parameter of the transport function of MCT8. Fourteen pathogenic variants of MCT8 were investigated in vitro with respect to their capacity to form oligomers. Particular mutations close to the substrate translocation channel (S194F, A224T, L434W, and R445C) were found to inhibit dimerization of MCT8. This finding is in contrast to those for other transporters or transmembrane proteins, in which substitutions predominantly at the outer-surface inhibit oligomerization. Moreover, specific mutations of MCT8 located in transmembrane helix 2 (del230F, V235M, and ins236V) increased the capacity of MCT8 variants to dimerize. We analyzed the localization of MCT8 dimers in a cellular context, demonstrating differences in MCT8 dimer formation and distribution. In summary, our results add a new link between the functions (substrate transport) and protein organization (dimerization) of MCT8, and might be of relevance for other members of the MFS. Finally, the findings are discussed in relationship to functional data combined with structural–mechanistical insights into MCT8.
Neuropeptide Receptors NPR-1 and NPR-2 RegulateCaenorhabditis elegansAvoidance Response to the Plant Stress Hormone Methyl Salicylate
Authors: Luo Jintao , Xu Zhaofa , Tan Zhiping , Zhang Zhuohua , Ma Long
Published: December 2014

Methyl salicylate (MeSa) is a stress hormone released by plants under attack by pathogens or herbivores . MeSa has been shown to attract predatory insects of herbivores and repel pests. The molecules and neurons underlying animal response to MeSa are not known. Here we found that the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans exhibits a strong avoidance response to MeSa, which requires the activities of two closely related neuropeptide receptors NPR-1 and NPR-2. Molecular analyses suggest that NPR-1 expressed in the RMG inter/motor neurons is required for MeSa avoidance. An NPR-1 ligand FLP-18 is also required. Using a rescuing npr-2 promoter to drive a GFP transgene, we identified that NPR-2 is expressed in multiple sensory and interneurons. Genetic rescue experiments suggest that NPR-2 expressed in the AIZ interneurons is required for MeSa avoidance. We also provide evidence that the AWB sensory neurons might act upstream of RMGs and AIZs to detect MeSa. Our results suggest that NPR-2 has an important role in regulating animal behavior and that NPR-1 and NPR-2 act on distinct interneurons to affect C. elegans avoidance response to MeSa.
R/qtlcharts: Interactive Graphics for Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping
Authors: Broman Karl W
Published: December 2014

Every data visualization can be improved with some level of interactivity. Interactive graphics hold particular promise for the exploration of high-dimensional data. R/qtlcharts is an R package to create interactive graphics for experiments to map quantitative trait loci (QTL) (genetic loci that influence quantitative traits). R/qtlcharts serves as a companion to the R/qtl package, providing interactive versions of R/qtl’s static graphs, as well as additional interactive graphs for the exploration of high-dimensional genotype and phenotype data.
Nitrogen Starvation and TorC1 Inhibition Differentially Affect Nuclear Localization of the Gln3 and Gat1 Transcription Factors Through the Rare Glutamine tRNACUG in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Tate Jennifer J , Rai Rajendra , Cooper Terrance G
Published: December 2014

A leucine, leucyl-tRNA synthetase–dependent pathway activates TorC1 kinase and its downstream stimulation of protein synthesis, a major nitrogen consumer. We previously demonstrated, however, that control of Gln3, a transcription activator of catabolic genes whose products generate the nitrogenous precursors for protein synthesis, is not subject to leucine-dependent TorC1 activation. This led us to conclude that excess nitrogen-dependent down-regulation of Gln3 occurs via a second mechanism that is independent of leucine-dependent TorC1 activation. A major site of Gln3 and Gat1 (another GATA-binding transcription activator) control occurs at their access to the nucleus. In excess nitrogen, Gln3 and Gat1 are sequestered in the cytoplasm in a Ure2-dependent manner. They become nuclear and activate transcription when nitrogen becomes limiting. Long-term nitrogen starvation and treatment of cells with the glutamine synthetase inhibitor methionine sulfoximine (Msx) also elicit nuclear Gln3 localization. The sensitivity of Gln3 localization to glutamine and inhibition of glutamine synthesis prompted us to investigate the effects of a glutamine tRNA mutation (sup70-65) on nitrogen-responsive control of Gln3 and Gat1. We found that nuclear Gln3 localization elicited by short- and long-term nitrogen starvation; growth in a poor, derepressive medium; Msx or rapamycin treatment; or ure2Δ mutation is abolished in a sup70-65 mutant. However, nuclear Gat1 localization, which also exhibits a glutamine tRNACUG requirement for its response to short-term nitrogen starvation or growth in proline medium or a ure2Δ mutation, does not require tRNACUG for its response to rapamycin. Also, in contrast with Gln3, Gat1 localization does not respond to long-term nitrogen starvation. These observations demonstrate the existence of a specific nitrogen-responsive component participating in the control of Gln3 and Gat1 localization and their downstream production of nitrogenous precursors. This component is highly sensitive to the function of the rare glutamine tRNACUG, which cannot be replaced by the predominant glutamine tRNACAA. Our observations also demonstrate distinct mechanistic differences between the responses of Gln3 and Gat1 to rapamycin inhibition of TorC1 and nitrogen starvation.
Is there a trade-off between the predictive power and the interpretability of bankruptcy models? The case of the first Hungarian bankruptcy prediction model
Authors: Virág Miklós , Nyitrai Tamás
Published: December 2014

In our work, we compare the predictive power of different bankruptcy prediction models built on financial indicators calculable from businesses’ accounting data on the database of the first Hungarian bankruptcy model. For modelling, we use data-mining methods often applied in bankruptcy prediction: neural networks (NN), support vector machines (SVM) and the rough set theory (RST) capable of rule-based classification. The point of departure for our comparative analysis is the practical finding that black-box-type data-mining methods typically show better classification performance than models whose results are easy to interpret, i.e. there seems to be a kind of trade-off between the interpretability and predictive power of bankruptcy models. Empirical results lead us to conclude that the RST approach can be a competitive alternative to black-box-type SVM and NN models. In our research, we did not find any major trade-off between the interpretability and predictive performance of bankruptcy models on the database of the first Hungarian bankruptcy model.
Asymmetric decentralisation, economic cycle, regional and local government’s borrowing in Spain
Authors: Toboso Fernando
Published: December 2014

This paper investigates the evolution of sub-central government borrowing in Spain over the period 1996–2011. The arguments and figures provided show that the intense process of political and fiscal decentralisation that took place over the 1990s and 2000s did not lead to higher debt ratios in terms of GDP at these tiers of government until 2007. Although a kind of overspending bias was in effect until the late 2000s, the paper shows that the evolution of GDP and tax revenues provided regional and local governments with enough resources to vigorously pursue their devolved public policy responsibilities and still keep their debt ratios under control. However, since 2008, when the world financial crisis broke out, the situation has changed dramatically. Even though the crisis originated in the financial sector, the paper concludes by stressing the importance of creating incentives and setting controls through institutional arrangements characterising multilevel government for all tiers of government to save in periods of economic growth in order to confront the impact of recession once it comes.
Tuning methods and mechanical modelling of hydrogels
Authors: Zhan Yuexing , Niu Xinrui
Published: December 2014

Hydrogels are cross-linked polymeric networks filled with high water content. They are used as tissue/cell culture scaffolds, biomedical devices and healthcare products. As the performance of hydrogels is significantly affected by their mechanical properties, it is required to tune hydrogels into desired mechanical systems. To provide guidance to the tuning process, it is important to evaluate and model the mechanical properties of hydrogels. However, due to the structural complexity of hydrogels, both tuning and modelling face challenges and uncertainties. This article briefly reviews the tuning methods and summarises key mechanical models that address linear elastic, hyperelastic, viscoelastic, poroelastic and hybrid mechanical behaviours of hydrogels.
Comparing GFR Estimating Equations Using Cystatin C and Creatinine in Elderly Individuals
Authors: Fan Li , Levey Andrew S. , Gudnason Vilmundur , Eiriksdottir Gudny , Andresdottir Margret B. , Gudmundsdottir Hrefna , Indridason Olafur S. , Palsson Runolfur , Mitchell Gary , Inker Lesley A.
Published: December 2014

Current guidelines recommend reporting eGFR using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations unless other equations are more accurate, and recommend the combination of creatinine and cystatin C (eGFRcr-cys) as more accurate than either eGFRcr or eGFRcys alone. However, preferred equations and filtration markers in elderly individuals are debated. In 805 adults enrolled in the community-based Age, Gene/Environment Susceptibility (AGES)-Reykjavik Study, we measured GFR (mGFR) using plasma clearance of iohexol, standardized creatinine and cystatin C, and eGFR using the CKD-EPI, Japanese, Berlin Initiative Study (BIS), and Caucasian and Asian pediatric and adult subjects (CAPA) equations. We evaluated equation performance using bias, precision, and two measures of accuracy. We first compared the Japanese, BIS, and CAPA equations with the CKD-EPI equations to determine the preferred equations, and then compared eGFRcr and eGFRcys with eGFRcr-cys using the preferred equations. Mean (SD) age was 80.3 (4.0) years. Median (25th, 75th) mGFR was 64 (52, 73) ml/min per 1.73 m2, and the prevalence of decreased GFR was 39% (95% confidence interval, 35.8 to 42.5). Among 24 comparisons with the other equations, CKD-EPI equations performed better in 9, similar in 13, and worse in 2. Using the CKD-EPI equations, eGFRcr-cys performed better than eGFRcr in four metrics, better than eGFRcys in two metrics, and similar to eGFRcys in two metrics. In conclusion, neither the Japanese, BIS, nor CAPA equations were superior to the CKD-EPI equations in this cohort of community-dwelling elderly individuals. Using the CKD-EPI equations, eGFRcr-cys performed better than eGFRcr or eGFRcys.
Aspectos Jurídicos, Psicológicos e Sociais da Redução da Maioridade Penal no Brasil
Authors: Luciano Macri Neto  , Ariadne de Andrade Costa
Published: December 2014

O tema da redução da maioridade penal tem provocado grandes discussões devido ao alto índice de criminalidade protagonizado por crianças e adolescentes apresentados na mídia e à inimputabilidade penal destes indivíduos consagrada na Constituição da Republica Federativa do Brasil. Esses crimes geram desconforto e descrença quanto aos órgãos públicos (judicial, executivo e legislativo) do país, causando uma sensação de injustiça na população. Entretanto, constata-se certa confusão de nomenclaturas na conferência da responsabilidade a esses jovens, que na realidade sofrem punições severas em níveis distintos, conforme prevê o ordenamento jurídico nacional e internacional. Constata-se também a precária situação dos estabelecimentos de cumprimento dessas medidas socioeducativas e de internação, colaborando para os internos se especializarem mais na atividade criminal, quando deveria ser um local de ressocialização. Assim, é de crucial importância que o Estado volte seus olhos para seus jovens, proporcionando-lhes saúde, estudo, trabalho ao invés paliativamente reduzir a maioridade penal e construir presídios, esquecendo-se que um dia retornarão ao convívio social mais selvagens.
Mediatization of Power: Corporate CEOs in Flexible Capitalism
Authors: Kantola Anu
Published: December 2014

The present article analyses the mediatization of corporate power with a special focus on the work of the CEO. A review of the literature on the role of the media in corporate management, especially in the work of corporate leaders, shows how the techniques of power in corporate management have become mediatized. Different media have become increasingly important for the work of corporate leaders. More importantly, media have become tools of power. In flexible and soft capitalism, corporate power is exercised using performative and affective techniques aimed at identity and community formation. Consequently, different media are utilized as tools of corporate management and control. With regard to the mediatization of power, the case of corporate management suggests that one should look into the societal and institutional structures of power rather than into the power of the media.
The Legitimacy of Public Service Broadcasting in the 21st Century: The Case of Scandinavia
Authors: Larsen Håkon
Published: December 2014

The present paper examines the debate on the future of public service broadcasting (PSB) in Norway and Sweden in the 2000s. I have analysed the discourses on PSB that dominate the public debate in the two countries, the cultural policy related to PSB, as well as the legitimizing rhetoric of the Norwegian public service broadcaster Norsk rikskringkasting (NRK) and that of the Swedish public service broadcaster Sveriges Television (SVT). Theoretically, the analysis draws on normative theories on the role of PSB in promoting democracy, culture and a well-functioning public sphere, as well as theories on democracy and the public sphere per se.
From Public Relations to Strategic Communication in Sweden: The Emergence of a Transboundary Field of Knowledge
Authors: Falkheimer Jesper , Heide Mats
Published: December 2014

In this conceptual article, we argue that strategic communication is a transboundary concept that captures, better than public relations does, the complex phenomenon of an organization's targeted communication processes in contemporary society. The aim of the article is twofold. First, the purpose is to describe and reflect the development and institutionalization of public relations education and research in Sweden. Second, based on the transboundary changes we see in industry, education and research, we argue that strategic communication is a conceptual and holistic framework that is more valid and relevant than public relations. Moreover, we suggest that strategic communication also integrates organizational (internal) communication as well as aspects of management theory and marketing, thus allowing us to understand, explain and criticize contemporary communication processes both inside organizations and between organizations and the surrounding society.

The article is mainly based on secondary data about the public relations industry, earlier research and a mapping of public relations education and research in Sweden.
Social Problems in Canadian Ice Hockey: An Exploration Through Film
Authors: Fogel Curtis A.
Published: December 2014

While celebrated as a highly popular sport in Canada, there are many social problems existing within and around Canadian ice hockey. These problems are often overlooked and rarely depicted in academic and journalistic research on sport. These social problems include, but are not limited to: extreme violence resulting in injuries and death, hazing rituals, multiple types of sexual violence, drug abuse, financial corruption, as well as various forms of prejudice and discrimination. Prompted by pop-cultural depictions in films, this paper further identifies and explores social problems in Canadian ice hockey revealing the realism embedded within various seemingly fictional films.
Incentive System in Hungarian High Performance Sport
Authors: Sterbenz Tamás , Gulyás Erika , Kassay Lili
Published: December 2014

This study will attempt to describe the role of existing incentives which have a significant effect on Hungarian sport's performance. The aim of the paper is to understand why a large gap has emerged between successful elite sports and the popular but underperforming spectacular sport. According to the concept of dual competition, in addition to sport results, the analyzed fields also concern competition for resources, particularly for the attention of supporters and sponsors. The methodology of the analysis is fundamentally economic in nature; however, qualitative methods are also given emphasis, as the analyzed topic has specific characteristics. Based on new institutional economics, the study presumes that the behavior of organizations is determined by the decisions of bounded rational individuals, and highlights the significance of the created mechanisms and institutions.
New Method of Forced Implantation of Permanent Catheters for Hemodialysis into Critically Stenosed or Occluded Central Veins
Authors: Przywara Stanisław , Iłżecki Marek , Terlecki Piotr , Zubilewicz Tomasz
Published: December 2014

was to report a novel technique of forced implantation of catheters for hemodialysis into critically stenosed or occluded central veins, without preceding angioplasty or stenting.

Sixteen patients with central venous occlusive disease, requiring urgent hemodialysis underwent this procedure. Catheterization of stenosis - occlusion was initially performed with soft guidewire, subsequently exchanged to stiff guidewire. Forced insertion of dilators, peel-off sheath throughout the stenosis or occlusion and finally implantation of the catheter completed the procedure. Our technique does not require pre-procedural angioplasty or stent deployment.

In all patients postoperative hemodialysis was managed with satisfactory adequacy. No early or late complications related to the procedure occurred. We did not observe any clinically significant aggravation of symptoms of central vein stenosis or occlusion. Complications, not-related to the procedure included one, late skin entry site infection and one, late catheter thrombosis. These were managed without the necessity of catheter exchange.

Our technique of forced implantation of catheters for hemodialysis into critically stenosed or occluded central veins without previous balloon predilatation or stenting is simple and diminishes the total cost of the procedure. Provides quick vascular access for hemodialysis in life threatening situations.
Evaluating the Prognostic Value of Selected Prognostic Scales in Patients Operated on Due to Peritonitis
Authors: Paduszyńska Katarzyna , Kaczka Krzysztof , Dworzyńska Agnieszka , Sieniawski Karol , Pomorski Lech
Published: December 2014

was to assess the usefulness of prognostic scales: ASA (American Society of Anesthesiologist), MPI (Meinheim Peritonitis Index), MOFS (the Multiple Organ Failure Score) and SPI (the Simple Prognostic Index) in the prognosis of the course of disease in patients operated on for peritonitis.

The study was conducted in the Clinical Department of General and Oncological Surgery of the Medical University in Łódź between January 2009 to December 2010. During this period 263 patients were operated on for peritonitis. Before surgery all patients were classifed into particular groups according to the above mentioned prognostic scales according to their criteria.

There were 29 (11%) deaths. ASA ≥4 (p<0.0001), MPI >30 (p<0.0001) MOFS ≥2 (p<0.0001), SPI II, III, IV (p<0.0001) were important risk factors of death.

1. ASA, MPI, MOFS and SPI scales are of high signifcance in predicting the outcome in patients operated on for peritonitis. 2. The ASA scale in spite and due to its simplicity is adequate enough to be used in everyday practice in patients operated on for peritonitis. 3. The MPI scale is most suitable in the scientifc aims and in comparing the outcomes of patients operated on for peritonitis.
Gall-Bladder Duplication - Case Report
Authors: Koszman Bogusław
Published: December 2014

Gall-bladder duplication is a rare anatomical variation, which can affect safe performance of cholecystectomy and be a cause of persistent symptoms and a need for reoperation in case of accessory gall-bladder omission.

A case of successfully performed elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a patient with duplicated gall-bladder accidentally intraoperatively disclosed is presented.

The identified anomaly was classified according to the Harlaftis Classification of Multiple Gall-bladders. Attention was drawn to the uneffectivenes of ultrasound scanning in multiple gall-bladders preoperative detecting, and presence of other non-biliary anatomical variation in the same individual as well.
Changing Places: Rock Art and Holocene Landscapes in the Wadi al-Ajal, South-West Libya
Authors: Barnett Tertia , Guagnin Maria
Published: December 2014

This article examines the relationship between rock art and landscape use by pastoral groups and early settled communities in the central Sahara from around 6000 BC to 1000 AD. During this period the region experienced significant climatic and environmental fluctuations. Using new results from a systematic survey in the Wadi al-Ajal, south-west Libya, our research combines data from over 2000 engraved rock art panels with local archaeological and palaeoenvironmental evidence within a GIS model. Spatial analysis of these data indicates a correspondence between the frequency of rock art sites and human settlement over time. However, while changes in settlement location were guided primarily by the constraints on accessibility imposed by surface water, the distribution of rock art relates to the availability of pasture and patterns of movement through the landscape. Although the reasons for these movements undoubtedly altered over time, natural routes that connected the Wadi al-Ajal and areas to the south continued to be a focus for carvings over several thousand years.
MINIMIZING COMMUNICATION RISK IN CONSTRUCTION: A DELPHI STUDY OF THE KEY ROLE OF PROJECT MANAGERS
Authors: Ceric Anita
Published: December 2014

All significant construction projects involve the project owner and the contractor, as well as their project managers. Following upon recent research into the multiple principal-agent problem, which was applied to the minimization of communication risk in construction projects, the focus here is on communication issues between the four project parties. Recent research has shown that the relationship between the project owner and the contractor is paramount for risk minimization before the contract between them is signed. However, the relationship between project managers is dominant for risk minimization after the contract is signed. To further explore risk minimization at this stage of the project, the Delphi method was employed. A panel of highly-experienced project managers working for both project owners and contractors was asked several rounds of questions in an attempt to arrive to a consensus concerning the most important relationships between project parties in terms of risk minimization after the contract is signed. The relationship between the two project managers tops the ranking, thus focusing further research. As they are both agents, and as there is no contract between them, this offers a fresh challenge for the principal-agent theory.
Du percept à la décision
Authors: Naceur Abdelmajid
Published: December 2014

Une question nous a longtemps préoccupé en tant que psychologue de la cognition : comment penser autrement le traitement humain de l’information ? Les recherches avancées en psychologie cognitive sur l’émotion et la motivation viennent à temps pour approfondir notre pensée. Le traitement humain de l’information, représenté dans cet ouvrage par le schéma Percept-Concept-Décision (PCD), pourrait être redéfini à la lumière des connaissances nouvelles et actualisées sur l’implication de la modulation émotionnelle et motivationnelle. Ces deux fonctions nous semblent incontournables dans notre réflexion ambitieuse autour d’un nouveau paradigme de traitement de l’information (le chapitre 1 donnera plus de précisions sur ce point). Dans ce contexte, l’objectif de cette introduction est d’abord de lancer une réflexion sur la manière selon laquelle on peut réviser le schéma global du modèle de traitement de l’information, puis de focaliser sur l’implication du traitement émotionnel dans deux moments forts de notre activité cognitive : la perception et la décision. Nous pensons que l’analyse du cheminement Percept-Concept-Décision (PCD) ne peut plus faire l’économie du traitement émotionnel (TE).
Du percept à la décision
Authors: Christen Andy , Grandjean Didier
Published: December 2014

La manière avec laquelle un système organique extrait, traite, représente et intègre les différentes propriétés de l’environnement qui l’entoure lui permet d’agir et de modifier sa relation au monde. En ce sens, la chaîne de processus impliqués dans la prise de décision fait figure d’interface médiatisant l’intégration des traitements perceptifs de bas niveau, concernant les caractéristiques d’un stimulus ou d’un événement, en constituants de nature plus complexe, incluant des représentations mentales à propos des résultats prédictifs d’une action. Le recours à de tels mécanismes s’avère particulièrement utile dans des situations marquées par l’incertitude pour lesquels l’organisme doit opérer des choix sur la base d’informations limitées ou au contraire infiniment complexes. De tels contextes de prise de décision font appel à des processus émotionnels et motivationnels, dont le but consiste non seulement à évaluer la pertinence des informations se trouvant dans l’environnement, mais encore d’orienter le comportement en direction des buts à atteindre. Ce chapitre entend donner un aperçu sur la façon avec laquelle les relations dynamiques entre différentes régions cérébrales, responsables de réaliser des traitements spécifiques, sous-tendent l’intégration de représentations multi-niveaux impliquées dans la prise de décision.
Du percept à la décision
Authors: Silvestrini Nicolas , Gendolla Guido H.E.
Published: December 2014

De quelle manière et dans quelle mesure notre humeur influence-t-elle notre motivation à réaliser une tâche ? Afin de répondre à ces questions, ce chapitre présente un modèle permettant de faire des prédictions sur l’influence de l’humeur sur la mobilisation de l’effort : le « mood-behavior-model » (MBM ; Gendolla, 2000). Tout d’abord, ce modèle postule que les humeurs n’ont pas d’implications stables et spécifiques mais que leurs effets dépendent plutôt du contexte dans lequel elles interviennent. Ainsi, dans des contextes demandant un effort, par exemple pendant une tâche cognitive, il est prédit que les humeurs influencent l’évaluation de la difficulté subjective de la tâche qui détermine à son tour la mobilisation des ressources (voir Brehm et Self, 1989). En plus de cet impact informationnel de l’humeur, le modèle prédit également un impact directif sur les préférences comportementales pour des actions permettant une régulation de l’humeur. Selon le MBM, ces deux impacts, informationnel et directif, interagissent entre eux pour déterminer le niveau d’effort mobilisé dans une tâche. Après une présentation théorique des concepts utilisés et du MBM, la suite de ce chapitre décrit des études empiriques illustrant et supportant les prédictions du modèle. Des recherches récentes sur l’influence des affects implicites sur la mobilisation de l’effort sont présentées à la fin du chapitre.