bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The utility of pulmonary function testing in predicting outcomes following liver transplantation
Authors: Kia Leila , Cuttica Michael J. , Yang Amy , Donnan Erica N. , Whitsett Maureen , Singhvi Ajay , Lemmer Alexander , Levitsky Josh
Published: March 2016

Although pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are routinely performed in patients during the evaluation period before liver transplantation (LT), their utility in predicting post‐LT mortality and morbidity outcomes is not known. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of obstructive and/or restrictive lung disease on post‐LT outcomes. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who had pre‐LT PFTs and underwent a subsequent LT (2007‐2013). We used statistical analyses to determine independent associations between PFT parameters and outcomes (graft/patient survival, time on ventilator, and hospital/intensive care unit [ICU] length of stay [LOS]). A total of 415 LT recipients with available PFT data were included: 65% of patients had normal PFTs; 8% had obstructive lung disease; and 27% had restrictive lung disease. There was no difference in patient and graft survival between patients with normal, obstructive, and restrictive lung disease. However, restrictive lung disease was associated with longer post‐LT time on ventilator and both ICU and hospital LOS (P < 0.05). More specific PFT parameters (diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide, total lung capacity, and residual volume) were all significant predictors of ventilator time and both ICU and hospital LOS (P < 0.05). Although pre‐LT PFT parameters may not predict post‐LT mortality, restrictive abnormalities correlate with prolonged post‐LT ventilation and LOS. Efforts to identify and minimize the impact of restrictive abnormalities on PFTs might improve such outcomes. Liver Transplantation 22 805–811 2016 AASLD.
Validation of the Parkinson's Disease‐Cognitive Rating Scale Applying the Movement Disorder Society Task Force Criteria for Dementia Associated with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Serrano‐Dueñas Marcos , Serrano Maite , Villena Diana , Granda David
Published: March 2016

Background

The authors studied the measurement properties of the Parkinson's Disease‐Cognitive Rating Scale (PD‐CRS) compared with Movement Disorders Society Task Force (MDS‐TF) criteria for the diagnosis of dementia in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Methods

The sample consisted of 223 patients who were diagnosed in accordance with the United Kingdom Parkinson's Disease Society Brain Bank who were assessed with both theMDS‐TFand thePD‐CRScriteria (in addition to other instruments) without the assessors' knowledge of previous results. Internal consistency was studied (homogeneity of the items and Guttmann's λ values were obtained) in addition to convergent, divergent, and discriminative validity. The receiver operating characteristic curve was obtained, and the cutoff point at which thePD‐CRShad the greatest efficiency was analyzed.

Results

The internal consistency was shown to be adequate, with a λ value of 0.821. A floor effect was observed in 4 of the items (Sustained Attention, Working Memory, Immediate Verbal Memory, and Alternating Verbal Fluency), and 1 item showed a ceiling effect (Clock Copying). The scale adequately discriminated patients with and without dementia (Kruskal‐Wallis;P ≤ 0.000). The area under the curve was 0.899. With a cutoff score of 62 (from a possible score of 134), the scale achieved 94% sensitivity and 99% specificity.

Conclusions

ThePD‐CRShas adequate measurement properties and is a valid tool for studying the presence of dementia in patients with Parkinson's disease.
Adolescent BMI trajectories with clusters of physical activity and sedentary behaviour: an exploratory analysis
Authors: Nesbit K. C. , Low J. A. , Sisson S. B.
Published: March 2016

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify distinct body mass index (BMI) trajectories associated with weight classification, and to examine demographic characteristics and clusters of obesogenic behaviours in adolescents with these trajectories.

Methods

Data were extracted from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (n = 1,006, Grades 5–8). The independent variables were physical activity (accelerometer and child report), sports participation, television/video watching time and recreational computer use. The dependent variable was raw BMI. Growth mixture modelling, mixture modelling and independent t‐test analyses were used.

Results

Two distinct BMI trajectories were identified – one with the mean BMI within the Overweight–Obese classification (≥85th percentile) and the other within the healthy weight classification (5th– 84th percentile). Two clusters of physical and sedentary behaviours were identified in adolescents with the Overweight–Obese BMI trajectory. These clusters differed in the type of sedentary behaviour (computer vs. television/video). Three clusters were identified in adolescents with the Healthy Weight BMI trajectory. These clusters differed in levels of physical activity and types of sedentary behaviour.

Conclusion

This study contributes to the understanding of multi‐dimensional obesogenic behavioural patterns and highlights the importance of understanding types of sedentary behaviour in adolescents.
Zählen, Sortieren und Charakterisieren
Authors: Alebrand Sabine , Drese Klaus , Baßler Michael , Schönfeld Friedhelm
Published: March 2016

Der Segré‐Silberberg‐Effekt beschreibt die laterale Anordnung von Partikeln in laminaren Kanalströmungen. Besonders interessant ist seine Nutzung in mikrofluidischen Kanälen, die entscheidend für die Funktionen eines Lab‐on‐a‐Chip sind. In solchen Kanälen bestimmt dieser Effekt die Positionen von Partikeln sowie ihre Geschwindigkeiten, die man mit einer am Fraunhofer ICT‐IMM entwickelten Methode sehr genau untersuchen kann. Da die Transportgeschwindigkeit von der Größe der Partikel abhängt, kann die Messmethode umgekehrt auch unbekannte Partikelgrößen bestimmen. Mit Hilfe numerischer Simulationen lassen sich die Messergebnisse reproduzieren. Damit kann man zudem die gemessenen Geschwindigkeiten mit den wirkenden Kräften sowie der Position im Strömungsprofil korrelieren.
A functional NMR for membrane proteins: dynamics, ligand binding, and allosteric modulation
Authors: Oxenoid Kirill , Chou James J.
Published: March 2016

By nature of conducting ions, transporting substrates and transducing signals, membrane channels, transporters and receptors are expected to exhibit intrinsic conformational dynamics. It is therefore of great interest and importance to understand the various properties of conformational dynamics acquired by these proteins, for example, the relative population of states, exchange rate, conformations of multiple states, and how small molecule ligands modulate the conformational exchange. Because small molecule binding to membrane proteins can be weak and/or dynamic, structural characterization of these effects is very challenging. This review describes several NMR studies of membrane protein dynamics, ligand‐induced conformational rearrangements, and the effect of ligand binding on the equilibrium of conformational exchange. The functional significance of the observed phenomena is discussed.
Modeling and practical realization of thin film silicon‐based integrated solar water splitting devices
Authors: Becker Jan‐Philipp , Urbain Félix , Smirnov Vladimir , Rau Uwe , Ziegler Jürgen , Kaiser Bernhard , Jaegermann Wolfram , Finger Friedhelm
Published: March 2016

An integrated solar water splitting device based on thin film silicon multijunction photocathodes is presented. A graphical representation of the photovoltaic current–voltage data is introduced which allows for an estimation of the maximum achievable solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of the integrated device. Furthermore, a simple yet very useful series circuit model is used to predict the photoelectrochemical performance of the integrated device in a more elaborate way when the j–V characteristics of the individual components are known. Within the model, the j–V characteristics of each component can be either modeled with parameters from the literature or measured. The photocathode, the electrolyte concentration, and the hydrogen and oxygen evolving catalysts were varied exemplarily and the impact of each component on the integrated device performance was evaluated. A maximum solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency of 9.5% was found using a triple junction solar cell functionalized with a Pt catalyst for the hydrogen evolution and a RuO2 catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction in a 1 M KOH electrolyte. This result was confirmed experimentally and is compared to efficiencies reported in the literature.
Fully inkjet‐printed metal‐oxide thin‐film transistors on plastic
Authors: Zeumault Andre , Ma Siyuan , Holbery Jim
Published: March 2016

Fully inkjet‐printed, transparent conductive oxide thin‐film transistors on polyimide are demonstrated for the first time integrating SnO2:F source/drain electrodes, ZrO2 gate dielectric, and ZnSnO semiconductor layers. A mobility of ∼0.04 cm2 V−1 s−1 was obtained at a maximum thermal processing temperature of 300 °C. In addition to electrical device characterization, SEM, TEM, and EDX analyses were performed to assess microstructure and chemical composition. Through our analysis, we show that future performance improvements require an increase in source/drain conductivity at lower annealing temperatures, the reduction in film cracking due to thermal stress, and the reduction in intermixing between layers occurring during annealing.
The interaction of ice crystals with hailstones in wet growth and its possible role in thunderstorm electrification
Authors: Jayaratne E. R. , Saunders C. P. R.
Published: March 2016

Charge separation during rebounding collisions of ice crystals on hail particles is a probable mechanism of thunderstorm electrification. Modelling of laboratory results successfully predicts the charge structure in thunderclouds under most conditions. An exception is the intense positive ground flashes observed in mid‐continental severe storms which contain large hailstones that are generally in wet growth. It is difficult to see how interacting ice crystals may separate from the wet surface of a hailstone without sticking, although some studies have reported charge separation during this process. Our laboratory experiments show that, during ice crystal interactions with a simulated hailstone in wet growth, a small but significant charge transfer occurs during ice crystal interactions. We present evidence to show that the hailstone surface is not uniformly wet and consists of dry zones, particularly at the edges, where ice crystals are most likely to impact, and hypothesize that a small number of ice crystals rebounding off these zones may give rise to the observed charging current. While this may explain wet growth charging in laboratory experiments, we cannot directly extend the findings to natural thunderstorms where hailstones tend to rotate and gyrate as they fall, but they may experience different growth regimes within the cloud.
Is lipid correction necessary in the stable isotope analysis of fish tissues?
Authors: Skinner Megan M. , Martin Amy A. , Moore Barry C.
Published: March 2016

Rationale

Stable isotope analysis (SIA) is a powerful tool for examining diet and food‐web dynamics. SIA assumes “you are what you eat” relative to carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). However, fractionation of carbon during lipid synthesis violates this assumption; high‐lipid tissues do not reflect δ13C values of diet and therefore have the potential to skew mixing model results and diet interpretations, making corrections necessary.

Methods

Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) white muscle and liver samples from several fish species representing the temperate North American cold‐ and warm‐water fish community were corrected for lipids via chemical lipid extraction and mathematical lipid normalization. To assess the accuracy of model‐predicted lipid‐free δ13C values calculated from four normalization models, we compared model‐predicted values with those measured after lipid extraction.

Results

We found that chemical lipid extraction is unnecessary for Brook Trout white muscle tissue with low initial lipid content. However, in tissues with C:N ratios greater than 3.5, lipid extraction increased δ13C values in fish liver by more than 1.0 ‰, indicating that liver lipid content is sufficient to bias δ13C values. We also found that lipids were accurately accounted for with mathematical normalization and recommend that tissues with C:N ratios greater than 3.5 be corrected mathematically.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that mathematical normalization is sufficient to account for bias in δ13C values associated with lipid content in fish tissues when C:N ratios are above 3.5. C:N ratios below 3.5 indicate that tissues have insufficient levels of lipid to bias the δ13C values. Generally, these findings support the use of more timely and cost‐effective processing and analysis methods in future aquatic food‐web studies utilizing SIA. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Improved analysis of micro‐ and nanomole‐scale sulfur multi‐isotope compositions by gas source isotope ratio mass spectrometry
Authors: Au Yang David , Landais Guillaume , Assayag Nelly , Widory David , Cartigny Pierre
Published: March 2016

Rationale

Multiple sulfur isotope compositions are usually measured on relatively large samples (in the range of micromoles); however, sometimes only small amounts are available and thus it is necessary to analyze small (sub‐micromole) samples. We report an improved method to measure multiple sulfur isotope compositions: δ33S, δ34S and δ36S values on the SF6 molecule (m/z 127, 128, 129, 131) for quantities down to 0.1 micromole, and δ33S and δ34S values for quantities down to 20 nanomoles.

Methods

Multiple sulfur isotope analyses including fluorination and purification of two international Ag2S standards, IAEA‐S1 and IAEA‐S3, were carried out at various low concentrations on a dual‐inlet isotope ratio mass spectrometer using a microvolume and modified resistor capacities.

Results

The analyses yielded a narrow range of δ34S values vs CDT (the international standard), with an overall standard deviation of ±0.2 ‰, which was within the range of certified values. This demonstrates the feasibility of determining both Δ33S and Δ36S values on the sub‐micromole scale, and Δ33S values on the nanomole scale with similar accuracy to conventional dual‐inlet analyses.

Conclusions

The analysis of the three S‐isotope ratios on the SF6 molecule using the so‐called conventional fluorination method and dual‐inlet ion ratio mass spectrometry is reliable for sample sizes down to ~20 nanomoles. Despite being close to the theoretical limits for maintaining the viscous flow regime of gas in the capillary, errors were not limited by counting statistics, but probably relate to sample gas purification. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Effects of Humour in Online Recruitment Advertising
Authors: Oikarinen Eeva-Liisa , Söderlund Magnus
Published: February 2016

This study explores humour in recruitment advertising by examining the effects on job seekers of humour in online job advertisements. The results from an experimental study in which the humour content in job ads was manipulated indicate that humour negatively affected job seekers’ attitudes towards the job ad, the company, and the job. However, humour content had no effect on job seekers’ attitudes towards the managers depicted in the ads and no impact on intentions to apply for the job. Yet humour content enhanced intentions to share job ads, which is an important marketing response given the increased importance of social media. The study contributes to the growing literature on humour in advertising and to the literature on recruitment advertising by investigating the use of humour in the hitherto unexplored job advertising context.
Gestión estratégica de tecnologías de información y comunicación y adopción del comercio electrónico en Mipymes de Córdoba, Argentina
Authors: Alderete María Verónica , Jones Carola , Motta Jorge
Published: February 2016

Este trabajo analiza los factores causales del nivel de adopción de comercio electrónico (ACE) en las micro, pequeñas y medianas empresas (Mipymes). En el marco de la teoría de la contingencia, se elabora un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales en el cual se asigna un rol mediador a la variable «estrategias y sistemas de control de gestión de tecnologías de información y comunicación». El estudio emplea una muestra de 139 Mipymes de Córdoba (Argentina). Los resultados muestran que la variable mediadora influye positivamente en la ACE y, por lo tanto, en el desempeño organizacional. A su vez, el nivel de aptitud digital de la empresa influye tanto de forma indirecta como directa en la ACE.
Increased susceptibility to metabolic dysregulation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease is associated with impaired hypothalamic insulin signaling and elevated BCAA levels
Authors: Ruiz Henry H. , Chi Tiffany , Shin Andrew C. , Lindtner Claudia , Hsieh Wilson , Ehrlich Michelle , Gandy Sam , Buettner Christoph
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated an association between diabetes and dementia. Insulin signaling within the brain, in particular within the hypothalamus regulates carbohydrate, lipid, and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism in peripheral organs such as the liver and adipose tissue. We hypothesized that cerebral amyloidosis impairs central nervous system control of metabolism through disruption of insulin signaling in the hypothalamus, which dysregulates glucose and BCAA homeostasis resulting in increased susceptibility to diabetes.

Methods

We examined whether APP/PS1 mice exhibit increased susceptibility to aging or high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced metabolic impairment using metabolic phenotyping and insulin‐signaling studies.

Results

APP/PS1 mice were more susceptible to high‐fat feeding and aging‐induced metabolic dysregulation including disrupted BCAA homeostasis and exhibited impaired hypothalamic insulin signaling.

Discussion

Our data suggest that AD pathology increases susceptibility to diabetes due to impaired hypothalamic insulin signaling, and that plasma BCAA levels could serve as a biomarker of hypothalamic insulin action in patients with AD.
Viewing usage of counterfeit luxury goods: Social identity and social hierarchy effects on dilution and enhancement of genuine luxury brands
Authors: Amaral Nelson B. , Loken Barbara
Published: February 2016

The use of counterfeit versions of luxury brands is a growing phenomenon. Viewing their use by others may lead consumers to change their perceptions of the genuine brand. In several experiments, female participants viewed (or imagined) a female of varying social classes using a counterfeit or genuine product and were subsequently asked about the genuine luxury brand. While people were drawn toward the genuine brand more when in‐groups than out‐groups used counterfeits, asymmetries occurred. Higher classes denigrated the brand when lower (versus higher) classes used counterfeit brands, but lower classes did not denigrate when higher classes used them. A conceptual account, based on asymmetries of social hierarchies and greater uncertainty of counterfeit (than genuine) product benefits, was supported, with feelings of connection to the luxury brand as mediator. Asymmetric effects were reduced among consumers highly familiar with the genuine brand. Implications for marketing and protection from brand dilution are discussed.
Altered Appetitive Conditioning and Neural Connectivity in Subjects with Compulsive Sexual Behavior
Authors: Klucken Tim , Wehrum-Osinsky Sina , Schweckendiek Jan , Kruse Onno , Stark Rudolf
Published: February 2016

Introduction

There has been growing interest in a better understanding of the etiology of compulsive sexual behavior (CSB). It is assumed that facilitated appetitive conditioning might be an important mechanism for the development and maintenance of CSB, but no study thus far has investigated these processes.

Aim

To explore group differences in neural activity associated with appetitive conditioning and connectivity in subjects with CSB and a healthy control group.

Methods

Two groups (20 subjects with CSB and 20 controls) were exposed to an appetitive conditioning paradigm during a functional magnetic resonance imaging experiment, in which a neutral stimulus (CS+) predicted visual sexual stimuli and a second stimulus (CS-) did not.

Main Outcome Measures

Blood oxygen level-dependent responses and psychophysiologic interaction.

Results

As a main result, we found increased amygdala activity during appetitive conditioning for the CS+ vs the CS- and decreased coupling between the ventral striatum and prefrontal cortex in the CSB vs control group.

Conclusion

The findings show that neural correlates of appetitive conditioning and neural connectivity are altered in patients with CSB. The increased amygdala activation might reflect facilitated conditioning processes in patients with CSB. In addition, the observed decreased coupling could be interpreted as a marker for impaired emotion regulation success in this group.
Sexual Behaviors of U.S. Men by Self-Identified Sexual Orientation: Results From the 2012 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior
Authors: Dodge Brian , Herbenick Debby , Fu Tsung-Chieh (Jane) , Schick Vanessa , Reece Michael , Sanders Stephanie , Fortenberry J. Dennis
Published: February 2016

Introduction

Although a large body of previous research has examined sexual behavior and its relation to risk in men of diverse sexual identities, most studies have relied on convenience sampling. As such, the vast majority of research on the sexual behaviors of gay and bisexual men, in particular, might not be generalizable to the general population of these men in the United States. This is of particular concern because many studies are based on samples of men recruited from relatively “high-risk” venues and environments.

Aims

To provide nationally representative baseline rates for sexual behavior in heterosexual, gay, and bisexual men in the United States and compare findings on sexual behaviors, relationships, and other variables across subgroups.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2012 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, which involved the administration of an online questionnaire to a nationally representative probability sample of women and men at least 18 years old in the United States, with oversampling of self-identified gay and bisexual men and women. Results from the male participants are included in this article.

Main Outcome Measures

Measurements include demographic characteristics, particularly sexual identity, and their relations to diverse sexual behaviors, including masturbation, mutual masturbation, oral sex, vaginal sex, and anal sex. Behaviors with male and female partners were examined.

Results

Men of all self-identified sexual identities reported engaging in a range of sexual behaviors (solo and partnered). As in previous studies, sexual identity was not always congruent for gender of lifetime and recent sexual partners.

Conclusion

Patterns of sexual behaviors and relationships vary among heterosexual, gay, and bisexual men. Several demographic characteristics, including age, were related to men's sexual behaviors. The results from this probability study highlight the diversity in men's sexual behaviors across sexual identities, and these data allow generalizability to the broader population of gay and bisexual men, in particular, in the United States, which is a major advancement in research focused on individuals in a sexual minority.
Simplified Interpretation of the Erectile Function Domain of the International Index of Erectile Function
Authors: Cappelleri Joseph C. , Tseng Li-Jung , Luo Xuemei , Stecher Vera , Lue Tom F.
Published: February 2016

Introduction

This report describes a post hoc analysis of data from a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, flexible-dose, sildenafil trial in men with erectile dysfunction.

Aims

To simplify interpretation of erectile function (EF) domain scores of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).

Methods

Men at least 18 years old with erectile dysfunction were randomized to receive sildenafil or placebo for 12 weeks. Men taking nitrates or nitric oxide donors were excluded. Responses for each IIEF EF domain question (questions 1–5 and 15) were combined into two broad categories (“success” for responses of the two most favorable categories of a question and “no success” for other responses). Each question was expressed in a logistic regression model (sildenafil and placebo groups combined) as a function of overall EF domain score.

Main Outcome Measures

IIEF EF domain score and items.

Results

A four-point increase in the IIEF EF domain score was associated with an odds ratio of success of 6.1 for getting an erection, 29.2 for having a firm erection, 10.0 for able to penetrate,12.8 for maintaining erection, 4.0 for maintaining erection to completion, and 3.7 for erection confidence. An EF domain score of 22 was associated with a probability of success of 81% for getting an erection, 86% for having a firm erection, 89% for able to penetrate, 67% for maintaining an erection, 70% for maintaining an erection to completion, and 32% for erection confidence. For an EF domain score of 16, the corresponding probabilities of success were 22%, 4%, 20%, 4%, 22%, and 6%, respectively.

Conclusion

These results provide stakeholders with a simplified and meaningful interpretation of IIEF EF domain scores based on six key aspects of EF.
Amplification of WHSC1L1 regulates expression and estrogen‐independent activation of ERα in SUM‐44 breast cancer cells and is associated with ERα over‐expression in breast cancer
Authors: Irish Jonathan C. , Mills Jamie N. , Turner-Ivey Brittany , Wilson Robert C. , Guest Stephen T. , Rutkovsky Alexandria , Dombkowski Alan , Kappler Christiana S. , Hardiman Gary , Ethier Stephen P.
Published: February 2016

The 8p11‐p12 amplicon occurs in approximately 15% of breast cancers in aggressive luminal B‐type tumors. Previously, we identified WHSC1L1 as a driving oncogene from this region. Here, we demonstrate that over‐expression of WHSC1L1 is linked to over‐expression of ERα in SUM‐44 breast cancer cells and in primary human breast cancers. Knock‐down of WHSC1L1, particularly WHSC1L1‐short, had a dramatic effect on ESR1 mRNA and ERα protein levels. SUM‐44 cells do not require exogenous estrogen for growth in vitro; however, they are dependent on ERα expression, as ESR1 knock‐down or exposure to the selective estrogen receptor degrader fulvestrant resulted in growth inhibition. ChIP‐Seq experiments utilizing ERα antibodies demonstrated extensive ERα binding to chromatin in SUM‐44 cells under estrogen‐free conditions. ERα bound to ERE and FOXA1 motifs under estrogen‐free conditions and regulated expression of estrogen‐responsive genes. Short‐term treatment with estradiol enhanced binding of ERα to chromatin and influenced expression of many of the same genes to which ERα was bound under estrogen‐free conditions. Finally, knock‐down of WHSC1L1 in SUM‐44 cells resulted in loss of ERα binding to chromatin under estrogen‐free conditions, which was restored upon exposure to estradiol. These results indicate the SUM‐44 cells are a good model of a subset of luminal B breast cancers that have the 8p11‐p12 amplicon, over‐express WHSC1L1, and over‐express ERα, but are independent of estrogen for binding to chromatin and regulation of gene expression. Breast cancers such as these, that are dependent on ERα activity but independent of estradiol, are a major cause of breast cancer mortality.
Modelo de gestión del aprendizaje en ciencias básicas médicas: un corte transversal
Authors: Cano Molano Luz Marina , Teherán Valderrama Aníbal Alfonso
Published: February 2016

Introducción: Los modelos educativos en medicina persisten con entornos pasivos del aprendizaje y es necesario integrar estrategias que permitan la construcción del aprendizaje para la vida.
 
Objetivo: Se evaluó la efectividad de la aplicación de un modelo de gestión del aprendizaje (MGA) entre estudiantes de medicina que cursan asignaturas de ciencias básicas; se determinó su impacto entre 2 periodos académicos y se identificaron los factores relacionados con el desempeño académico de cada asignatura.
 
Método: Se realizó un estudio de corte transversal a partir de la exposición, se utilizaron los registros de calificaciones de estudiantes de tercer y cuarto semestre de morfofisiología, farmacología y razonamiento básico estructural (RBE) del periodo 2014-2015; se evaluó el desempeño académico posterior a una exposición 12 meses del MGA; se determinó la diferencia de medias del promedio académico, en cada una de las asignaturas, según núcleo temático (nt) y periodo académico, y se implementó un modelo lineal univariante y se identificaron los factores relacionados con el desempeño académico en cada asignatura.
 
Resultados: Se identificaron 1.496 estudiantes con media (DE) de edad 20 (3) años, la mayoría mujeres (71%); el 40% cursaron el ntl , 30% nt2 y 30% nt3; se evidenciaron diferencias positivas en las medias de desempeño académico entre los periodos 2014-2 y 2014-1 en los 3 núcleos temáticos de farmacología y razonamiento básico estructural; no se identificaron cambios en morfofisiología. Se identificó relación entre los antecedentes de formación del docente y del estudiante con el desempeño académico y el tiempo de exposición al MGA. 
 
Conclusión: La aplicación del MGA demostró un aumento en las habilidades de RBE, farmacología y una curva estática en morfofisiología. La formación del docente y los antecedentes de  formación del estudiante están relacionados con el desempeño académico; es necesario evaluar  el impacto del modelo en el área clínica.
The role of melanin pathways in extremotolerance and virulence ofFonsecaearevealed byde novoassembly transcriptomics using illumina paired-end sequencing
Authors: Li X.Q. , Guo B.L. , Cai W.Y. , Zhang J.M. , Huang H.Q. , Zhan P. , Xi L.Y. , Vicente V.A. , Stielow B. , Sun J.F. , de Hoog G.S.
Published: February 2016

Melanisation has been considered to be an important virulence factor ofFonsecaea monophora. However, the biosynthetic mechanisms of melanisation remain unknown. We therefore used next generation sequencing technology to investigate the transcriptome and digital gene expression data, which are valuable resources to better understand the molecular and biological mechanisms regulating melanisation inF. monophora. We performedde novotranscriptome assembly and digital gene expression (DGE) profiling analyses of parent (CBS 122845) and albino (CBS 125194) strains using the Illumina RNA-seq system. A total of 17 352 annotated unigenes were found by BLAST search of NR, Swiss-Prot, Gene Ontology, Clusters of Orthologous Groups and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) (E-value <1e‐5). A total of 2 283 unigenes were judged to be the differentially expressed between the two genotypes. We identified most of the genes coding for key enzymes involved in melanin biosynthesis pathways, including polyketide synthase (pks), multicopper oxidase (mco), laccase, tyrosinase and homogentisate 1,2-dioxygenase (hmgA). DEG analysis showed extensive down-regulation of key genes in the DHN pathway, while up-regulation was noted in the DOPA pathway of the albino mutant. The transcript levels of partial genes were confirmed by real time RT-PCR, while the crucial role of key enzymes was confirmed by either inhibitor or substrate testsin vitro. Meanwhile, numbers of genes involved in light sensing, cell wall synthesis, morphology and environmental stress were identified in the transcriptome ofF. monophora. In addition, 3 353 SSRs (Simple Sequence Repeats) markers were identified from 21 600 consensus sequences. Blocking of the DNH pathway is the most likely reason of melanin deficiency in the albino strain, while the production of pheomelanin and pyomelanin were probably regulated by unknown transcription factors on upstream of both pathways. Most of genes involved in environmental tolerance to oxidants, irradiation and extreme temperatures were also assembled and annotated in transcriptomes ofF. monophora. In addition, thousands of identified cSSR (combined SSR) markers will favour further genetic linkage studies. In conclusion, these data will contribute to understanding the regulation of melanin biosynthesis and help to improve the studies of pathogenicity ofF. monophora.
Geochemical and grain-size evidence for the provenance of loess deposits in the Central Shandong Mountains region, northern China
Authors: Peng Shuzhen , Hao Qingzhen , Wang Luo , Ding Min , Zhang Wei , Wang Yanan , Guo Zhengtang
Published: February 2016

Widespread loess deposits in the Central Shandong Mountains yield valuable paleoclimatic records for this currently semi-humid monsoonal region of northern China. The grain-size distribution and major element composition for bulk samples and two grain-size fractions (< 20 and 20–63 μm) for the loess in the Central Shandong Mountains were compared with loess from the Chinese Loess Plateau and sediment from the Yellow River to help determine its provenance. The presence of a significant percentage of medium- and coarse-silt, and the difference in relatively immobile major element ratios of TiO2/Al2O3 and K2O/Al2O3 for the < 20 and 20–63 μm fractions, suggests that sediment that forms the loess deposits in the Central Shandong Mountains was not blown directly from the northern deserts of China as is the case for the loess deposits of the Chinese Loess Plateau. Rather, this suggests that sediments exposed during glacial times on the North China fluvial plain, including the floodplain of the Yellow River, were the major dust source for the loess in the Central Shangong Mountains. In addition, the wide distribution of perimontane loess in the Central Shandong Mountains region indicates the occurrence of strengthened local aridification during glacial times since the middle Pleistocene.
Identification of a late Quaternary alluvial–aeolian sedimentary sequence in the Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Feng Jin-Liang , Ju Jian-Ting , Chen Feng , Hu Zhao-Guo , Zhao Xiang , Gao Shao-Peng
Published: February 2016

The late Quaternary sedimentary sequence in the northwestern part of the Sichuan Basin consists of five lithological units and with increasing depth include the: Chengdu Clay; Brown Clay; Red Clay; Sandy Silt; and basal Muddy Gravel. The genesis, provenance and age of the sediments, as well as the possible presence of hiatuses within this sequence are debated. Measurements of grain-size, magnetic susceptibility, quartz content, quartz δ18O values, element composition, and Sr–Nd isotopic concentrations of samples from a typical sedimentary sequence in the area provides new insights into the genesis and history of the sequence. The new data confirm that the sediments in study site are alluvial–aeolian in origin, with basal alluvial deposits overlain by aeolian deposits. Like the uppermost Chengdu Clay, the underlying Brown Clay and Red Clay are aeolian in origin. In contrast, the Silty Sand, like the basal Muddy Gravel, is an alluvial deposit and not an aeolian deposit as previously thought. Moreover, the succession of the aeolian deposits very likely contains two significant sedimentary hiatuses. Sedimentological analysis demonstrates that the source materials for the aeolian deposits in the northwestern part of the Sichuan Basin and those on the eastern Tibetan Plateau are different. Furthermore, the loess deposits on the eastern Tibetan Plateau are derived from heterogeneous local sources.
Induction of Autophagy interferes the tachyzoite to bradyzoite transformation ofToxoplasma gondii
Authors: LI XIANGZHI , CHEN DI , HUA QIANQIAN , WAN YUJING , ZHENG LINA , LIU YANGYANG , LIN JIAXIN , PAN CHANGWANG , HU XIN , TAN FENG
Published: March 2016

Autophagy process inToxoplasma gondiiplays a vital role in regulating parasite survival or death. Thus, once having an understanding of certain effects of autophagy on the transformation of tachyzoite to bradyzoite this will allow us to elucidate the function of autophagy during parasite development. Herein, we used three TgAtg proteins involved in Atg8 conjugation system, TgAtg3, TgAtg7 and TgAtg8 to evaluate the autophagy level in tachyzoite and bradyzoite ofToxoplasma in vitrobased on Pru TgAtg7-HA transgenic strains. We showed that both TgAtg3 and TgAtg8 were expressed at a significantly lower level in bradyzoites than in tachyzoites. Importantly, the number of parasites containing fluorescence-labelled TgAtg8 puncta was significantly reduced in bradyzoites than in tachyzoites, suggesting that autophagy is downregulated inToxoplasmabradyzoitein vitro. Moreover, after treatment with drugs, bradyzoite-specific gene BAG1 levels decreased significantly in rapamycin-treated bradyzoites and increased significantly in 3-MA-treated bradyzoites in comparison with control bradyzoites, indicating thatToxoplasmaautophagy is involved in the transformation of tachyzoite to bradyzoitein vitro. Together, it is suggested that autophagy may serve as a potential strategy to regulate the transformation.
Reporting Laws on Child Abuse: Health Professionals’ Knowledge of and Attitudes Towards Child Abuse Reporting Laws and case Management, in Victoria
Authors: Shamley Dorothy A.F.
Published: March 2016

This study investigates the knowledge and attitudes of health professionals towards the reporting of child abuse in Victoria. A review of the literature suggests that this professional group lacks adequate knowledge of child abuse reporting, legislation and procedures. It is also suggested that numerous factors other than ignorance of the law may influence professionals’ cooperation in reporting or trying to deal with a case of child abuse. Finally, it was found that the introduction of compulsory reporting in the State of Victoria would not markedly increase professionals’ willingness to report. Seventy-four health professionals were included in the sample for analysis, and the results indicate that negative attitudes to the law and the competence and resources of ancillary services is more of a problem than ignorance of the law.
Child Abuse: — a socio-environmental perspective
Authors: Roberts Ro
Published: March 2016

In a series of two articles, the author presents a socio-environmental model which provides a framework for assessing the needs of abusing families. In the 2nd article (to be published in the Spring Issue) she looks at the application of the model in practice.
Responding to young people as if they really mattered: Reflections on the development and work of “The Haven” 1972–1981
Authors: Brown Christopher , Brunt David
Published: March 2016

This paper seeks to describe the development of one Brisbane based programme and its search for appropriate responses to the suffering of contemporary youth. Difficulties associated with drugs and alcohol form its major area of concern. A review of such a programme may be of interest to those who work with troubled youth. Wider interest might be established if some tentative links are established with those processes that have occurred during the past decade through which the sufferings of young people have gradually become more accepted as constituting a public and political issue. An important question emerges as to whether there are tangible signs in our community, beyond the relatively marginal responses of programmes such as “The Haven”, that alienated and troubled youth really matter.
Australian Children in Substitute Care
Authors: Edwards John , Gregory Graeme , Oakley Denis
Published: March 2016

In 1979, the Children’s Bureau of Australia, a non-government research and advocacy body, undertook a national survey of substitute family care provided by non-government child care agencies. The report of the Survey, “Particular Care” was published by the Bureau early in 1982.

For the first time in Australia, comprehensive data is available on children being cared for in children’s homes, foster care, and homes for physically and intellectually handicapped children. While the study was restricted to non-government organizations, these organizations in fact care for more children than do government agencies; indications are that the picture obtained in the survey would also be typical of that for government sponsored care.
A Campaign to Reduce Ex-Nuptial Births?
Authors: Turner J. Neville
Published: March 2016

No-one is a greater admirer of the tennis ability of Pat Cash that I. He virtually won the Davis Cup off his own racquet. And he and Stephan Edberg provided me and the other spectators at Kooyong with a marvellous final in the Australian Open.

It is, however, with some concern that I have seen pictures of him, his girl-friend and his son, glamourising him as a father. For the fact is, his son can potentially still suffer discrimination being born outside marriage.

As a successful sportsman, his Influence on young people is potentially enormous. If his example gives respectability to the production of children outside marriage, it will be doing great harm. For the fact is that children born outside marriage still suffer considerable legal and social disadvantages, compared to those born within marriage. They are innocent, but they suffer. And, I regret to say, although some of the discrimination can be, and should be, removed, it is unrealistic to expect that they can be placed on an equal standing with children born in marriage.
Community-Based Respite Care for Disabled Children
Authors: Williams Marigold , Roper Skaidrite
Published: March 2016

This article is an overview of community based respite care programmes operating in the metropolitan area of Sydney. The term “community-based respite care” in this article refers to a model where the care is given by other families within the community. The term “families” encompasses traditional two parent families, single parents and other caring adults. These families are identified as “host families” and “respite care” is defined as provision of short term relief from 2 hours to 2 weeks to disabled persons and their families on a planned basis or in emergency situations.

The underlying philosophy of community respite care is that services to the disabled should be based on making available to them the same patterns and conditions of everyday life which most citizens enjoy.
Organisation Theory and Dynamics: Peripheral Knowledge or An Essential Component of Treatment
Authors: Frederico Margarita
Published: March 2016

This paper was first presented at the International Association for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Allied Professions. 11th International Congress Paris, July 1986.
New Directions for Family Support and Service in Child Welfare
Authors: Mitchell Brian
Published: March 2016

The past 30 years has seen the Australian community undergo significant structural and qualitative changes bringing prosperity and unprecedented standards of living to most citizens. But for some people these changes have left them behind and today their plight has reached scandalous proportions such that the nation's sense of social justice is in question.

Today we are only too well aware of the statistics on poverty, homelessness, child abuse and neglect, drug abuse and community violence. Thirty years ago we would not have thought it possible that sectors of the Australian community, apart from Aboriginal communities, would have such a growing sense of hopelessness and isolation from the mainstream of Australian life.

These difficulties are now pressing upon child welfare services and at a time of expenditure neutrality of the public welfare dollar. More and more as the costs of the welfare state approach crisis point, government and the community in general are being forced to turn to the resources of the family to find solutions to problems of social and personal need. In child welfare the notion of turning to the family and seeking resources or building upon inherent strengths is a new direction requiring a new understanding, knowledge and skills.
Placement Disruption… A review of the literature
Authors: O'Neill Cas
Published: March 2016

This article is based on a small part of a review of relevant literature for a Master of Social Work thesis entitled, ‘Do You Mean We're Not The Only Ones?… Experiences of Permanent Placement Disruption’. Statistics and trends from the State of Victoria have been included where relevant.
Inter-Agency Collaboration: Why is it so difficult? Can we do it better?
Authors: Scott Dorothy
Published: March 2016

This paper is based on a presentation at the Mission of St James and St John Forum ‘Protecting Our Children: Where Do We Draw the Line?’ in Melbourne on June 18, 1993. It provides an analysis of why inter-agency collaboration has often remained an elusive goal and identifies some of the structural obstacles to collaboration which are particularly relevant to the current context of child welfare in Victoria. While many of the obstacles to inter-agency collaboration are beyond the domain of the individual practitioner and agency, some suggestions are offered for strategies which can be pursued by practitioners and agencies.
Continuing to Abuse Children for a Living: Protecting children from abuse by professionals: Part Two
Authors: Goddard Chris
Published: March 2016

In the last edition of Children Australia [18(3)], I started an interview with a woman who came to see me several years ago claiming that her child was both sexually and physically abused by his teacher. At considerable cost to herself and her family, she has refused to ignore the abuse her child suffered and the lack of action by the authorities.

PART TWO of the interview commences with discussing her son's disclosure.
When home is a caravan park
Authors: Hogarth Denise , Geggie Judi , Eddy Gus
Published: March 2016

It is only since 1986 that relocatable dwellings in caravan parks have been recognised as a category of permanent residence for census purposes. This fact highlights the apparent invisibility of a small but significant proportion of the Australian population. Recent literature has implicated high differentiation of the population, urban sprawl, and high rates of internal (particularly intra-urban) migration in the transmission of disadvantage. In this article, staff of the National Dissemination Program of the Hunter Caravan Project apply that analysis to their own experience of caravan park residency issues. Some very practical suggestions are made for addressing some of those issues as they apply to children.
Family group conferences, part one: Australia's first project within child protection
Authors: Ban Paul , Swain Phillip
Published: March 2016

Family decision making through Family Group Conferences has been trialled in a pilot project by the Mission of St James and St John, Victoria, for the past 16 months (as of February 1994) in a two year Project. This article, the first of a series of two, intends to briefly explain the technique and how the project was established in Victoria. The theoretical basis, or project assumptions, will be outlined, together with the obstacles which currently prevent the wider implementation of the practice. The project was independently evaluated from October 1992 up to 31 August 1993 (Swain, 1993a; 1993b). Key findings of that evaluation will be discussed in the second article in this series along with practice issues that need further exploration.
Out-of-home care in Australia: A State by State comparison
Authors: Bath Howard
Published: March 2016

All Australian statutory child welfare agencies collect and report data on children under their supervision, but it is not always clear from this data how many children are actually placed in out-of-home care. This paper reports on a survey of the eight state and territory statutory agencies which focused on comparative placement rates, the usage of the two major types of out-of-home care, and placement patterns for Aboriginal/TSI children. Comparisons are drawn with the USA and a number of European countries.