bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution de la sémiotique à la conception des conditionnements: Application à deux catégories de produits
Authors: Dano Florence
Published: March 2013

L'objectif de cet article est de proposer un nouveau cadre conceptuel pour comprendre et organiser les attentes des consommateurs à l'égard des produits et des conditionnements ainsi qu'une méthode de description des messages conditionnements permettant d'enrichir les démarches de création et d'analyse des conditionnements. Une étude empirique sur deux catégories de produits confirmera que les conditionnements conçus sur la base de cette méthode valorisent bien le produit dans le sens attendu par les consommateurs et qu'ils contribuent au choix des produits.
Énoncé ou énonciation? deux objets différents de l'analye lexicale en marketing
Authors: Gavard-Perret Marie-Laure , Moscarola Jean
Published: March 2013

Les auteurs proposent une relecture de l'analyse lexicale. Distinguant l'énoncé de l'énonciation, ils passent en revue différentes techniques en précisant les deux fonctions possibles de l'analyse lexicale:

l'analyse descriptive ou l'approximation des contenus l'analyse interprétative ou la statistique des actes de langage.

Ils les illustrent avec des exemples et en montrent l'intérêt pour le marketing.
Les comportements liés à la protection de l'environnement et leurs déterminants: un état des recherches en marketing
Authors: Giannelloni Jean-Luc
Published: March 2013

Cet article est une synthèse de la recherche marketing sur les comportements lié à la protection de l'environnement. La préoccupation pour l'environnement est abordée en premier lieu. On en montre les limites conceptuelles et opérationnelles. Le lien entre préoccupation pour l'environnement et comportement écologique fait l'objet d'une seconde partie. Les résultats des recherches sont souvent peu concluants, à cause des relations instables entre variables. Sur ces considérations, la troisième partie tente de dégager des pistes de recherche.
Freins et motivations à l'utilisation d'Internet : Une exploration par le biais de métaphores
Authors: Boulaire Christèle , Balloffet Pierre
Published: March 2013

Cette étude empirique s'intéresse aux freins et motivations des non-utilisateurs d'Internet face à l'innovation que constituent les autoroutes de l'information et à leur contenu commercial. A l'intérieur d'une approche interprétative, un protocole de recherche original est privilégié. Il fait appel à des jeux de métaphores, et plus spécifiquement à la technique du portrait chinois, afin de sonder l'imaginaire de la majorité profane. Une analyse de leurs perceptions et représentations apporte un éclairage sur le potentiel de succès de l'innovation.
Analyse de l'efficience des produits à l'aide des méthodes d'enveloppe (Data Envelopment Analysis) Une application au marché des lave-vaisselle
Authors: Chabi Sylvie , Corre Marie-France
Published: March 2013

Du fait de son caractère multidimensionnel, la qualité des produits est difficile à évaluer. Les associations de consommateurs tentent de guider le choix des particuliers en leur proposant un indicateur global de qualité. Cet indicateur, reposant sur un système de pondérations choisi a priori, peut paraître arbitraire. La méthode DEA, en autorisant la flexibilité des pondérations semble plus objective.
Contribution méthodologique à l'étude des relations d'implication entre variables : Application à l'analyse des déterminants de la performance de la force de vente
Authors: Tensaout Mouloud , Riard Emile-Henri
Published: March 2013

En marketing, la vérification de la validité des hypothèses théoriques spécifiées a priori sur le phénomène étudié est réalisée par les modèles causaux. Toutefois, lorsque celui-ci est peu connu ou complexe, l'analyste a besoin d'une démarche pour formuler les hypothèses à tester. C'est l'objet de cet article qui propose une méthodologie de construction d'une structure causale fondée sur la conjonction des résultats des analyses exploratoires et de l'analyse implicative. Elle comporte deux phases : d'abord des analyses factorielles destinées à extraire les variables qui résument au mieux l'information initiale; puis une analyse implicative afin de construire un schéma d'implication. Ce dernier est obtenu à partir du calcul d'un indice asymétrique entre les paires de variables qualitatives retenues. Il permet de spécifier leurs relations structurelles. Un exemple d'application sur les déterminants de la performance de la force de vente en illustre les apports, notamment sur l'identification de la nature des construits.
Achat simultané et mesure de la substituabilité avec des données de panel multi-catégories
Authors: Aurier Philippe
Published: March 2013

Nous proposons une mesure de la substituabilité avec des données de panel multi-catégories. Celle-ci repose sur le postulat selon lequel, dans un ensemble de substituts directs (ou de considérations), le consommateur effectue un choix unique et donc que tout achat simultané est signe de complémentarité ou d'indépendance mais pas de substituabilité. Ce postulat et l'indice de substituabilité proposés sont validés dans une application mettant en jeux quatre catégories indépendantes (détergents, soupes, yaourts et ketchups). De plus, nous montrons que l'utilisation de l'information fournie par les achats simultanés permet d'améliorer significativement la validité d'indices basés sur le brand switching. Une illustration sur l'univers hétérogène des boissons comprenant plusieurs catégories de produits imbriquées (119 marques) est ensuite proposée. L'intérêt théorique et pratique de notre approche est d'autoriser des analyses sur des univers étroits et homogènes (tactiques) mais aussi larges et hétérogènes (stratégiques), ce qui peut aider les réflexions en matière de gestion de gammes, de positionnement et d'extension de marques.
Vers un modèle qualité-satisfaction intégrant la confiance?
Authors: Sirieix Lucie , Dubois Pierre-Louis
Published: March 2013

Cet article a pour but de montrer que la prise en compte de la confiance dans la marque permet de mieux comprendre les liens entre la qualité d'un produit ou d'un service et la satisfaction des consommateurs. La première partie est consacrée à l'étude des liens entre qualité, confiance et satisfaction, aboutissant à la proposition d'un modèle intégrant la confiance. Une recherche dans le domaine de la restauration rapide met en évidence dans la deuxième partie les relations existant entre l'expérience passée avec la marque, la confiance dans la marque, la qualité perçue et la satisfaction des consommateurs.
One Novel and One Recurrent Mutation in IGHMBP2 Gene, Causing Severe Spinal Muscular Atrophy Respiratory Distress 1 With Onset Soon After Birth
Authors: Litvinenko Ivan , Kirov Andrey Ventsislavov , Georgieva Ralitsa , Todorov Tihomir , Malinova Zornitsa , Mitev Vanyo , Todorova Albena
Published: March 2013

A family with 2 siblings with severe spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress 1 (SMARD1) was genetically proved to be caused by mutations in IGHMBP2 gene. Both patients developed progressive muscular weakness and respiratory distress and died before 6 months of age. One novel deletion, c.780delG;p.(Gln260Hisfs*24), inherited from the father and a nonsense mutation, c.1488C>A;p.(Cys496*), inherited from the mother were detected. An attempt was made to correlate the genetic-clinical data available in the literature. The clinical case presented in this study might be considered as the most severe form of spinal muscular atrophy respiratory distress 1 reported so far, presumably because of the total absence of IGHMBP2 enzyme activity.
Unapproved Drugs—The Drug Information Pharmacists’ Perspective
Authors: Giouroukakis Mary , Dryer Megan
Published: March 2013

Pharmacists in all areas of practice frequently dispense or recommend drugs without realizing that some commonly used medications have never received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Most of these medications have been available for many years and are usually misconceived as generic drugs, when in fact they never went through the required quality, safety, and efficacy testing required by FDA. As a result, unapproved drugs can pose serious safety risks to patients and create uncertainty in the market. FDA established the “Unapproved Drugs Initiative” to protect public health by decreasing the number of available unapproved drugs with minimal disruptions to the market. Unapproved drugs remain in the market for various historical reasons. It is important for health care providers, particularly pharmacists, to be knowledgeable about unapproved products and consider switching patients to FDA-approved alternatives if possible when selecting drug therapy. Several resources are available on the FDA Website to determine approval status. Although FDA is working to remove unapproved drugs from the market, there will be circumstances when the use of unapproved drugs is medically necessary and appropriate. In these cases, pharmacists can monitor for and report adverse events and stay informed regarding any changes in approval status.
Upgrade, rehouse or resettle? An assessment of the Indian government’s Basic Services for the Urban Poor (BSUP) programme
Authors: Patel Sheela
Published: March 2013

This paper assesses progress in the government of India’s Basic Services for the Urban Poor (BSUP) programme in 11 cities in India. It draws primarily on responses to a common set of questions asked of government officials, residents and a range of other actors, and on visits to two or more BSUP project sites in each city. In the majority of the 11 cities, much of the building subsidy money still remains unutilized. But the paper suggests that the limitations of the BSUP programme are more to do with the inadequacies of what was built and how this relates to not involving the “slum”(1) dwellers in the design and planning of what was to be done, or in decisions as to whether the slum should be upgraded (or the inhabitants relocated), or in implementation. In many instances, even when in situ improvements were planned, this usually involved clearing the site and constructing contractor-built small apartments rather than implementing what is considered good practice, namely support for households to make incremental improvements to existing housing. The paper suggests that the institutional structures needed to support slum upgrading at scale are not in place at municipal, state and national level. Many of the BSUP projects are simply public housing construction re-labelled – and often with very inadequate provision for the “basic services” whose improvement is meant to be at the centre of the BSUP. However, the paper notes the instances where new approaches were tried with more success.
The Allure of the Forbidden
Authors: Whitaker Jodi L. , Melzer André , Steffgen Georges , Bushman Brad J.
Published: March 2013

Although people typically avoid engaging in antisocial or taboo behaviors, such as cheating and stealing, they may succumb in order to maximize their personal benefit. Moreover, they may be frustrated when the chance to commit a taboo behavior is withdrawn. The present study tested whether the desire to commit a taboo behavior, and the frustration from being denied such an opportunity, increases attraction to violent video games. Playing violent games allegedly offers an outlet for aggression prompted by frustration. In two experiments, some participants had no chance to commit a taboo behavior (cheating in Experiment 1, stealing in Experiment 2), others had a chance to commit a taboo behavior, and others had a withdrawn chance to commit a taboo behavior. Those in the latter group were most attracted to violent video games. Withdrawing the chance for participants to commit a taboo behavior increased their frustration, which in turn increased their attraction to violent video games.
Nurses, industrial action and ethics
Authors: van Rensburg André J , van Rensburg Dingie J
Published: March 2013

Several important ethical dilemmas emerge when nurses join a public-sector strike. Such industrial action is commonplace in South Africa and was most notably illustrated by a national wage negotiation in 2010. Media coverage of the proceedings suggested unethical behaviour on the part of nurses, and further exploration is merited. Laws, policies and provisional codes are meant to guide nurses’ behaviour during industrial action, while ethical theories can be used to further illuminate the role of nurses in industrial action. There are, however, important aspects to consider before judging whether nurses act unethically when striking. Following Loewy’s suggestion that the nature of the work, the proceeding commitment of the nurse to the patient, the prevailing situation when the strike is planned and the person(s) who stand(s) to benefit from the strike be considered, coupled with a consideration of the South African historical socio-political context, important aspects of the ethics of nurses’ behaviour in industrial action transpire.
Modeling and analysis of shear-induced flexural vibrations of annular piezoceramic actuators
Authors: Parashar Sandeep K
Published: March 2013

Piezoceramic materials are widely used in solid-state actuators and sensors. Since the shear piezoelectric coupling coefficient [Formula: see text] is much higher than the other piezoelectric coefficients [Formula: see text] or [Formula: see text], the application of shear actuators is of particular interest. Shear-induced vibrations in piezoceramics are more complex to describe mathematically than longitudinal or transverse vibrations. Furthermore, as the complexity of the model increases, the coupling of electrical and mechanical terms precludes the analytical solution of the field equations for all but the simplest case. For a moderately complex piezoceramic model, the implementation of an analytical method to obtain the closed-form solution is very challenging. The use of approximate energy methods, such as the Rayleigh–Ritz method, is explored in this work to obtain the eigenvectors and eigenfrequencies for annular piezoceramic actuators. Series comprising orthogonal polynomial functions, generated using the Gram–Schmidt method, is used in the Rayleigh–Ritz method to formulate the linear eigenvalue problem. The advantage of the presented methodology lies in its adaptability for software implementation, which reduces the efforts to obtain fairly accurate results for more complex piezoceramic structures in future. The efficacy of the presented approximate method is assessed by comparing the results with the experiments.
Issue Convergence Is Nothing More than Issue Convergence
Authors: Lipsitz Keena
Published: March 2013

It is widely assumed that candidate issue convergence or “dialogue” is beneficial for voters in campaigns. Using a lagged weekly measure of issue convergence in political advertising about specific campaign issues from the 2000 and 2004 presidential campaigns, I show that dialogue, as it is currently defined by campaigns and elections scholars, is as likely to harm voters as it is to help them. These findings require scholars to think more deeply about what role, if any, issue convergence plays in deliberative campaigns.
Press Freedom, Publicity, and the Cross-National Incidence of Transnational Terrorism
Authors: Hoffman Aaron M. , Shelton Crystal , Cleven Erik
Published: March 2013

Publicity is central to terrorism, but demonstrating a link between press freedom and the targeting of attacks is challenging. There are several reasons for this: (1) studies do not distinguish between press freedom and press attention; (2) perpetrators use press freedom to weed out unacceptable targets rather than to determine which targets to attack; (3) only foreign, not domestic, perpetrators depend on press attention; and (4) foreign terrorists satisfy their desire for press attention by attacking powerful states. Our models confirm this argument about press freedom and national power even after controlling for executive constraints, polity, and foreign policy activity.
Improving compute node performance using virtualization
Authors: Kocoloski Brian , Lange John
Published: March 2013

Modified variants of Linux are likely to be the underlying operating systems (OSs) for future exascale platforms. Despite the many advantages of this approach, a subset of applications exist in which a lightweight kernel (LWK)-based OS is needed and/or preferred. We contend that virtualization is capable of supporting LWKs as virtual machines (VMs) running at scale on top of a Linux environment. Furthermore, we claim that a properly designed virtual machine monitor (VMM) can provide an isolated and independent environment that avoids the overheads of the Linux host OS. To validate the feasibility of this approach we demonstrate that given a Linux host OS, benchmarks running in a virtualized LWK environment are capable of outperforming the same benchmarks executed directly on the Linux host.
Understanding and isolating the noise in the Linux kernel
Authors: Akkan Hakan , Lang Michael , Liebrock Lorie
Published: March 2013

Scientific applications are interrupted by the operating system far too often. Historically, operating systems have been optimized to time-share a single resource, the CPU. We now have an abundance of cores, but we are still swapping out the application to run other tasks and therefore increasing the application’s time to solution. In addition, with parallel applications the probability of one of the tasks entering a synchronization point late due to one of these interrupts increases with increasing system scale, which further increases the application turn-around time. This paper reviews measures that can be taken to reduce application interruption using only compile and run time configurations in a recent unmodified Linux kernel. Although these measures have been available for some time, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, they have never been implemented in a high-performance computing context. We then introduce our invasive method, where we remove the involuntary preemption induced by task scheduling. Our experiments show that parallel applications benefit from these modifications even at relatively small scales. At the modest scale of our testbed, we see a 1.91% improvement in a bulk-synchronous-parallel application that should project into higher benefits at extreme scales.
Polymorphisms of Interleukin-1 Beta and Interleukin-17Alpha Genes Are Associated With Restless Legs Syndrome
Authors: Hennessy Mary Dawn , Zak Rochelle S. , Gay Caryl L. , Pullinger Clive R. , Lee Kathryn A. , Aouizerat Bradley E.
Published: March 2013

Objective:

Dopamine, iron, and inflammatory pathways are considered important to the development of restless legs syndrome (RLS). Recent genetic studies support involvement of dopamine and iron; however, cytokine gene variation in the inflammatory component remains unexplored. A recent study reported a high prevalence of RLS among HIV-infected adults. We estimate occurrence of RLS in an ethnically diverse sample of HIV-infected adults and examine differences in demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and biomarkers relating to dopamine, iron, and inflammation between adults with and without RLS symptoms. Design: A prospective longitudinal study aimed at identifying biomarkers of RLS symptom experience among HIV-infected adults.

Method:

316 HIV-positive adults were evaluated using International RLS Study Group criteria. Genes were chosen for hypothesized relationships to dopamine ( NOS1, NOS2), iron ( HFE) or inflammation-mediated by cytokine genes (interferon [ IFN], interleukin [ IL], nuclear factor kappa-B [ NFKB], and tumor necrosis factor alpha [ TNFA]).

Results:

Similar to general population estimates, 11% of the sample met all four RLS diagnostic criteria. Controlling for race, gender, and hemoglobin, carrying two copies of the minor allele for IL1B rs1143643, rs1143634, or rs1143633 or carrying the minor allele for IL17A rs8193036 was associated with increased likelihood of meeting RLS diagnostic criteria.

Conclusion:

This study provides preliminary evidence of a genetic association between IL1B and IL17A genes and RLS.
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis in two renal transplant patients: is there a role for Epstein-Barr virus reactivation?
Authors: Caucheteux N , Maarouf A , Daelman L , Toupance O , Lavaud S , Tourbah A
Published: March 2013

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, usually occurring after a vaccination or infectious disease. It has been exceptionally described in transplanted patients. The pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. We report the clinical, biological and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) presentation and evolution of two kidney-transplanted patients with ADEM associated with local Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) reactivation. ADEM may occur in transplanted patients with favorable evolution. Its pathophysiology is uncertain, and the implication of EBV is discussed.
Patient–provider relationship predicts mental and physical health indicators for HIV-positive men who have sex with men
Authors: Bankoff Sarah M , McCullough Mary B , Pantalone David W
Published: March 2013

We used secondary data analysis to examine associations among aspects of patient–provider relationships and mental and physical health indicators. Positive patient perceptions of patient–provider relationships were associated with fewer mental health symptoms in this outpatient sample of HIV-positive men who have sex with men ( N = 171). Regression analyses revealed the role of anxiety and depression in explaining associations between two aspects of patient–provider relationships (i.e. quality of information offered and provider interactional style) and health-related quality of life. The findings demonstrated the importance of patient–provider relationships to improving physical health and functioning and maintaining engagement in care, among HIV-positive men who have sex with men.
Parental concerns’ prevalence and socio-demographic variables in general parenting
Authors: Algarvio Susana , Isabel Leal , Maroco João
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate parental concerns in general parenting. The participants were 3842 parents of children between 3 and 10 years old, attending public preschools and primary schools, from a stratified random sample of Portuguese parents. Parents completed a parental concerns’ scale that comprises five subscales: family and school problems; eating, sleep and physical complaints; preparation; fears; and negative behaviours. The results reported that 93.4 per cent of parents expressed some concern about the issues presented in the scale. Comparative analysis reported significant differences between mothers and fathers; child’s gender; child’s schooling level; mothers’ and fathers’ level of education, age at childbirth, marital status, and employment status. These results may indicate that parental concerns are an expected aspect of parenting, and that they should be addressed in family practice. Moreover, the reported differences between groups pointed to the need to develop specific intervention strategies.
Growth patterns and their implications for preterm infants in a culture of rapid modernization
Authors: Ahn Youngmee , Sohn Min , Jun Yonghoon , Lee Sangmi
Published: March 2013

This prospective longitudinal study explored the growth patterns of preterm infants and the implications of rearing them in an advancing culture. The study measured the weight, length, and head circumference of 343 Korean preterm infants over 12 months corrected age. Data were analyzed using a generalized estimation equation for growth patterns of preterm infants by the degree of prematurity (mild, moderate, or severe). Results showed that the early ‘catch-up phenomenon’, accelerated growth rate, occurred around 11 months corrected age, although the mild preterm group weighed less, was shorter, and had a smaller head circumference than the moderate and severe preterm groups. This may reflect the Asian culture’s preference for big babies and draws special attention to the influence of cultural values and childrearing practices in the growth of preterm infants. Pediatric nurses should be alert to accelerated growth in preterm infants in societies in cultural transition.
Familial clustering of HBV in families with children who are diagnosed as chronic hepatitis B or inactive carriers of HBV
Authors: Urganci Nafiye , Akyildiz Basak Nur , Kalyoncu Derya , Gulec Seda Geylani
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to assess and compare the spread of HBV infection in families with children who are diagnosed as chronic hepatitis B or are inactive carriers of HBV. A total of 570 patients aged 2–16 years and 2358 family members were included in the study. Patients were classified as inactive carriers (Group 1, 350 patients) or patients diagnosed as chronic active hepatitis B (Group 2, 220 patients). Demographic features of the families, HBV serological markers and routes of transmission were evaluated. Parental transmission was lower compared to nonparental transmission (34.8% and 65.1%, respectively). HBsAg positivity rate was found to be highest among mothers in both of the groups. HBeAg positivity and anti-HBs positivity were significantly higher in family members of Group 2. Transmission rates were significantly higher in families consisting of five or more members compared to families consisting of less than five members. HBsAg positivity of siblings was lowest when both parents were HbsAg negative and highest when both parents were HBsAg positive in both groups. A high risk of HBV transmission among mothers of HBsAg carriers and patients with chronic hepatitis B was demonstrated.
Finnish female prisoners – heavy consumers of health services
Authors: Viitanen Päivi , Vartiainen Heikki , Aarnio Jorma , Von Gruenewaldt Virpi , Hakamäki Sirpa , Lintonen Tomi , Mattila Aino K , Wuolijoki Terhi , Joukamaa Matti
Published: March 2013

Aims: Previous prison studies show that female prisoners often have more health problems than male prisoners do and that they have many chronic health conditions. Few studies have been made among offenders concerning the use of health services, and even fewer concerning physical diseases. We studied the self-reported lifetime somatic diseases, the use of health services and the current use of prescription medicines among Finnish female prisoners and compared them with males. Methods: The sample consisted of 101 females and 309 male prisoners as controls. The study included several questionnaires and interviews conducted by experienced prison nurses. Results: The women had more commonly genitourinary, virus hepatitis/HIV infections and group “other diseases” than the men. Over 80% of the women and men have had accidents/injuries. Four out of five women, and half of the men, used some medicine regularly. Of the females, 92% (80% of the males) reported lifetime hospital care and 65% (61%) treatment in surgery department, respectively; 70% of the females (53% of the males) reported lifetime use of any psychiatric service; 66% of the women (46% of the men) had received psychiatric out-patient services, and 43% (31%) psychiatric in-patient hospital care and 38% (30%) substance abuse services, respectively. Conclusions: The heavy use of health services among female prisoners resulted mainly from the use of services for substance use and other mental disorders and treatment in surgery department. Compared to men, the difference in using health services was associated with psychiatric services.
Framing Bouazizi: ‘White lies’, hybrid network, and collective/connective action in the 2010–11 Tunisian uprising
Authors: Lim Merlyna
Published: March 2013

By delving into the detailed account of the Tunisian uprising, this article offers an explanation that sets the 2010 uprising apart from its precursors. The 2010 uprising was successful because activists successfully managed to bridge geographical and class divides as well as to converge offline and online activisms. Such connection and convergence were made possible, first, through the availability of dramatic visual evidence that turned a local incident into a spectacle. Second, by successful frame alignment with a master narrative that culturally and politically resonated with the entire population. Third, by activating a hybrid network made of the connective structures to facilitate collective action – among Tunisians who shared collective identities and collective frames – and connective action – among individuals who sought more personalized paths to contribute to the movement through digital media.
Video self-modelling and its impact on the development of communication skills within social work education
Authors: Bolger Janine
Published: March 2013

This article describes the evaluation of a programme which utilised video self-modelling to develop communication skills and associated skills of reflection and self-assessment within social work education at the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, Scotland. Video self-modelling techniques were adopted utilising role-play scenarios, simulating situations commonly encountered in social work practice, with social work students prior to their first period of Practice Learning. Eleven participants were observed via video footage and independently rated according to the communication skills they displayed. Group discussion in conjunction with pre- and post-test questionnaires encouraged participants to reflect on their practice.

Findings

The greatest increase in the frequency of observations of desirable communication skills was most often achieved by participants who had scored the lowest in the rating of their skills during the pre-test videos. Overall there was no statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-tests scores with regard to the communication skills demonstrated. By contrast, all 11 participants expressed a belief that the majority of their skills had improved as a result of experiencing video self-modelling techniques which led to a greater level of reflective practice and growth in self-efficacy with regard to their professional competence.

Applications

This approach can be applied to measure the impact development of communication skills on social work courses.
Peripheral arterial disease in diabetic Jordanian patients and the agreement between ankle brachial index and toe brachial index
Authors: Moosa Sameh R , Bakri Faris G , Khammash Muhammad R , Jaddou Hashem Y , Shatnawi Nawwaf J , Ajlouni Kamel M
Published: March 2013

This study aims to screen patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and to determine the agreement between ankle brachial index (ABI) and toe brachial index (TBI). A total of 182 diabetic patients at 40 years of age or older were assessed using both ABI and TBI. Mean age was 60.5 (SD ±8.1) years. PAD was present in 28.9% and 5.4% of patients according to TBI and ABI definitions respectively. The prevalence of high ABI (ABI > 1.3) was 16.5%. The agreement between TBI and ABI results was fair. Current smoking was associated with low ABI whereas age was inversely associated with TBI. We strongly suggest using both the ABI and TBI as screening tests for PAD because the agreement between these tests was fair, they complement each other in most instances and they detect PAD at different anatomical levels.
Cardiovascular outcome trials in type 2 diabetes and the sulphonylurea controversy: Rationale for the active-comparator CAROLINA trial
Authors: Rosenstock Julio , Marx Nikolaus , Kahn Steven E , Zinman Bernard , Kastelein John J , Lachin John M , Bluhmki Erich , Patel Sanjay , Johansen Odd-Erik , Woerle Hans-Jürgen
Published: March 2013

Sulphonylureas (SUs) are widely used glucose-lowering agents in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with apparent declining efficacy over time. Concerns have been raised from observational retrospective studies on the cardiovascular (CV) safety of SUs but there are few long-term data on CV outcomes from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving the use of this class of agents. Most of the observational studies and registry data are conflicting and vary with study population and methodology used for analyses. To address the SU controversy, we reviewed the recently published literature (until end of the year 2011) to evaluate the impact of SUs on CV outcomes in modern, longer-term (≥72 weeks) RCTs where they were compared in a head-to-head fashion versus an active comparator or were used as part of a treatment strategy. We identified 15 trials and found no report of an increase in the incidence of CV events with the use of SUs. However, the available data are limited, and, most importantly, there was no adequately powered formal head-to-head CV outcome trial designed to address CV safety. Since SUs are still being advocated as second-line therapy added-on to metformin, as one of several classes, and in certain circumstances first-line therapy in T2DM management, definitive data from a dedicated RCT addressing the CV safety question with SUs would be informative. Cardiovascular Outcome Study of Linagliptin versus Glimepiride in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes (CAROLINA) is such a trial, ongoing since November 2010, and is currently the largest head-to-head CV outcome trial that involves a comparison of a SU (glimepiride) with a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor (linagliptin) and will provide a unique perspective with respect to CV outcomes with these two commonly used agents.
The correlation of neurophysiological findings with clinical and functional status in patients following traumatic nerve injury
Authors: Şahin F. , Atalay N. Ş. , Akkaya N. , Ercidoğan Ö. , Başakçı B. , Kuran B.
Published: March 2013

In this study, we aimed to determine whether there is a correlation between the electrodiagnostic findings and the functional status, muscle strength and sensibility in patients with traumatic nerve injury to the wrists. We assessed 50 patients at a mean of 11.6 months (SD 5.85) (range 6–25) after nerve injury. Sensibility was assessed by monofilament testing. Motor function was evaluated by assessing the manual muscle grade of the abductor pollicis brevis and abductor digiti minimi muscles. Function was evaluated by the Sollerman Hand Function Test. The amplitudes of the compound muscle action potential and the sensory nerve action potential were determined by electroneuromyography. While the compound muscle action potential and sensory nerve action potential amplitudes had significant correlation with muscle grade and Semmes Weinstein Monofilament tests, there was no correlation with the functional scores.
Osteochondral Allografts in the Ankle Joint
Authors: Vannini Francesca , Buda Roberto , Pagliazzi Gherardo , Ruffilli Alberto , Cavallo Marco , Giannini Sandro
Published: March 2013

Purpose:

The aim of this systematic review is to report about the clinical use of partial and total fresh osteochondral allograft in the ankle joint. The state of the art of allografts with regard to basic science, procurement and storage methods, immunogenicity, generally accepted indications and contraindications, and the rationale of the allografting procedure have been described.

Methods:

All studies published in PubMed from 2000 to January 2012 addressing fresh osteochondral allograft procedures in the ankle joint were identified, including those that fulfilled the following criteria: (a) level I-IV evidence addressing the areas of interest outlined above; (b) measures of functional, clinical, or imaging outcome; and (c) outcome related to ankle cartilage lesions or ankle arthritis treated by allografts.

Results:

The analysis showed a progressively increasing number of articles from 2000. The number of selected articles was 14; 9 of those focused on limited dimension allografts (plugs, partial) and 5 on bipolar fresh osteochondral allografts. The evaluation of evidence level showed 14 case series and no randomized studies.

Conclusions:

Fresh osteochondral allografts are now a versatile and suitable option for the treatment of different degrees of osteochondral disease in the ankle joint and may even be used as total joint replacement. Fresh osteochondral allografts used for total joint replacement are still experimental and might be considered as a salvage procedure in otherwise unsolvable situations. A proper selection of the patients is therefore a key point. Moreover, the patients should be adequately informed about the possible risks, benefits, and alternatives to the allograft procedure.
Laparoscopy for extraperitoneal rectal cancer reduces short‐term morbidity: Results of a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Arezzo Alberto , Passera Roberto , Scozzari Gitana , Verra Mauro , Morino Mario
Published: March 2013

Background

The role of laparoscopy in the treatment of extraperitoneal rectal cancer is still controversial. The aim of the study was to evaluate differences in safety of laparoscopic rectal resection for extraperitoneal cancer, compared with open surgery.

Materials and methods

A systematic review from 2000 to July 2012 was performed searching the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases (PROSPERO registration number CRD42012002406). We included randomized and prospective controlled clinical studies comparing laparoscopic and open resection for rectal cancer. Primary endpoints were 30‐day mortality and morbidity. Then a meta‐analysis was conducted by a fixed‐effect model, performing a sensitivity analysis by a random‐effect model. Relative risk (RR) was used as an indicator of treatment effect.

Results

Eleven studies, representing 1684 patients, met the inclusion criteria: four were randomized for a total of 814 patients. Mortality was observed in 1.2% of patients in the laparoscopic group and in 2.3% of patients in the open group, with an RR of 0.56 (95% CI 0.19–1.64, p  = 0.287). The overall incidence of short‐term complications was lower in the laparoscopic group (31.5%) compared to the open group (38.2%), with an RR of 0.83 (95% CI 0.73–0.94, p  = 0.004). Surgical complications, wound complications, blood loss and the need for blood transfusion, time for bowel movement recovery, food intake recovery, and hospital stay were significantly lower or less frequent in the laparoscopic group. The incidence of intra‐operative injuries, anastomotic leakages, and surgical re‐interventions was similar in the two groups. Only operative time was in favour of the open group.

Conclusions

Based on the evidence of both randomized and prospective controlled series, mortality was lower after laparoscopy although not significantly so, while the short‐term morbidity RR, including subgroup analysis, was significantly lower after laparoscopy for extraperitoneal rectal cancer compared to open surgery.
Risk Factors for Acute Kidney Injury After Hip Fracture Surgery in the Elderly Individuals
Authors: Ulucay Cagatay , Eren Zehra , Kaspar Elif Cigdem , Ozler Turhan , Yuksel Korcan , Kantarci Gulcin , Altintas Faik
Published: March 2013

Objective: We aimed to evaluate possible risk factors assocıated wıth acute kidney injury (AKI) after hip fracture surgery in the elderly individuals. Design: Level II diagnostic study, evidence obtained from prospective cohort study from 1 center with level 2, and 3 patients. Patients: A total of 165 patients (>65 years) with femoral neck fracture were enrolled in this prospective study between 2007 and 2010. Two patients were dropped for inadequate laboratory follow-up data. Patients with kidney failure or renal replacement therapy (RRT) history or AKI at admission were excluded. Intervention: Nephrology consultation was obtained from all patients at admission. All patients had undergone bipolar cemented hip arthroplasty that was performed by the same surgical team in all patients within 24 hours of fracture and admission under the same protocol. Main Outcome Measurements: Serum creatinine (SCr), urine output, and complete blood counts were evaluated at baseline and daily basis thereafter. The AKI was defined based on Acute Kidney Injury Network classification. Hospital charges were converted from Turkish Liras to US dollars and rounded. Results: Among 163 patients, AKI occurred in 25 (15.3%) patients, all within the first 48 postoperative hours. Three (1.8%) patients required RRT. Baseline SCr levels were restored within 4.84 ± 1.34 days on average (3-8 days). No patient required RRT after discharge. The mean hospital stay was 3 days (2-6 days) longer and the hospital charge was 2500 US$ higher for the patients with AKI. After multivariable adjustment, only lower estimated glomerular filtration rate levels (odds ratio 0.945, 95%confidence interval 0.92-0.96) emerged as an independent predictor for AKI. Conclusion: The AKI represents a frequent complication after hip fracture surgery associated with longer hospital stay and higher treatment costs with increased morbidity. Our results show baseline renal function is an independent predictor of AKI.
Zoon Vulvitis as a Differential Diagnosis in an HIV-Infected Patient
Authors: Reis Helena Lucia Barroso dos , Vargas Paulo Roberto Merçon de , Lucas Elton , Camporez Thais , Ferreira Dennis de Carvalho
Published: March 2013

Vulvitis circumscripta plasmacellularis or Zoon vulvitis is a rare benign condition that affects the vulva chronically. We herein report a case of Zoon vulvitis in a 52-year-old HIV-infected patient with an uncommon ulcerovegetating lesion diagnosed by histopathlogic findings. The patient was treated with clobetasol propionate ointment and oral corticosteroid. Zoon vulvitisis is a rare vulvar disorder that offers a challenging diagnose and therapy. The patient was appropriately treated and remains disease free.
Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma segregating in a family: exome sequencing identifies MLL as a candidate predisposition gene
Authors: Saarinen Silva , Kaasinen Eevi , Karjalainen-Lindsberg Marja-Liisa , Vesanen Kari , Aavikko Mervi , Katainen Riku , Taskinen Minna , Kytölä Soili , Leppä Sirpa , Hietala Marja , Vahteristo Pia , Aaltonen Lauri A.
Published: March 2013

Key Points

A familial form of PMBCL is reported for the first time. Exome sequencing identifies MLL 5533C>A (His1845Asn) variant segregating with lymphoma in the reported family.
Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) is required for LFA-1–mediated neutrophil recruitment during the acute inflammatory response
Authors: Jakob Sascha M. , Pick Robert , Brechtefeld Doris , Nussbaum Claudia , Kiefer Friedemann , Sperandio Markus , Walzog Barbara
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) regulates LFA-1 affinity and thereby controls adhesion and postadhesion functions of neutrophils. Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) is critically involved in neutrophil trafficking during acute inflammation.
Analysis of FOXO1 mutations in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Trinh Diane L. , Scott David W. , Morin Ryan D. , Mendez-Lago Maria , An Jianghong , Jones Steven J. M. , Mungall Andrew J. , Zhao Yongjun , Schein Jacqueline , Steidl Christian , Connors Joseph M. , Gascoyne Randy D. , Marra Marco A.
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Recurrent mutations in FOXO1 affect the DNA binding domain and the T24 phosphorylation site, which disrupt interactions with 14-3-3. Presence of FOXO1 mutations is associated with decreased OS, particularly in DLBCL patients of the low-risk R-IPI categories.
Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM) expression in alveolar macrophages in COPD
Authors: Kojima Jun , Araya Jun , Hara Hiromichi , Ito Saburo , Takasaka Naoki , Kobayashi Kenji , Fujii Satoko , Tsurushige Chikako , Numata Takanori , Ishikawa Takeo , Shimizu Kenichiro , Kawaishi Makoto , Saito Keisuke , Kamiya Noriki , Hirano Jun , Odaka Makoto , Morikawa Toshiaki , Hano Hiroshi , Arai Satoko , Miyazaki Toru , Kaneko Yumi , Nakayama Katsutoshi , Kuwano Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2013

Background

Marked accumulation of alveolar macrophages (AM) conferred by apoptosis resistance has been implicated in pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Apoptosis inhibitor of macrophage (AIM), has been shown to be produced by mature tissue macrophages and AIM demonstrates anti-apoptotic property against multiple apoptosis-inducing stimuli. Accordingly, we attempt to determine if AIM is expressed in AM and whether AIM is involved in the regulation of apoptosis in the setting of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) exposure.

Methods

Immunohistochemical evaluations of AIM were performed. Immunostaining was assessed by counting total and positively staining AM numbers in each case (n = 5 in control, n = 5 in non-COPD smoker, n = 5 in COPD). AM were isolated from bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The changes of AIM expression levels in response to CSE exposure in AM were evaluated. Knock-down of anti-apoptotic Bcl-xL was mediated by siRNA transfection. U937 monocyte-macrophage cell line was used to explore the anti-apoptotic properties of AIM.

Results

The numbers of AM and AIM-positive AM were significantly increased in COPD lungs. AIM expression was demonstrated at both mRNA and protein levels in isolated AM, which was enhanced in response to CSE exposure. AIM significantly increased Bcl-xL expression levels in AM and Bcl-xL was involved in a part of anti-apoptotic mechanisms of AIM in U937 cells in the setting of CSE exposure.

Conclusions

These results suggest that AIM expression in association with cigarette smoking may be involved in accumulation of AM in COPD.
Conditional expression of retrovirally delivered anti-MYCN shRNA as an in vitro model system to study neuronal differentiation in MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma
Authors: Henriksen Jørn R , Haug Bjørn Helge , Buechner Jochen , Tømte Ellen , Løkke Cecilie , Flaegstad Trond , Einvik Christer
Published: March 2013

Background

Neuroblastoma is a childhood cancer derived from immature cells of the sympathetic nervous system. The disease is clinically heterogeneous, ranging from neuronal differentiated benign ganglioneuromas to aggressive metastatic tumours with poor prognosis. Amplification of the MYCN oncogene is a well established poor prognostic factor found in up to 40% of high risk neuroblastomas.

Using neuroblastoma cell lines to study neuronal differentiation in vitro is now well established. Several protocols, including exposure to various agents and growth factors, will differentiate neuroblastoma cell lines into neuron-like cells. These cells are characterized by a neuronal morphology with long extensively branched neurites and expression of several neurospecific markers.

Results

In this study we use retrovirally delivered inducible short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) modules to knock down MYCN expression in MYCN-amplified (MNA) neuroblastoma cell lines. By addition of the inducer doxycycline, we show that the Kelly and SK-N-BE(2) neuroblastoma cell lines efficiently differentiate into neuron-like cells with an extensive network of neurites. These cells are further characterized by increased expression of the neuronal differentiation markers NFL and GAP43. In addition, we show that induced expression of retrovirally delivered anti-MYCN shRNA inhibits cell proliferation by increasing the fraction of MNA neuroblastoma cells in the G1 phase of the cell cycle and that the clonogenic growth potential of these cells was also dramatically reduced.

Conclusion

We have developed an efficient MYCN-knockdown in vitro model system to study neuronal differentiation in MNA neuroblastomas.