bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review of effects on biodiversity from oil palm production
Authors: Savilaakso Sini , Garcia Claude , Garcia-Ulloa John , Ghazoul Jaboury , Groom Martha , Guariguata Manuel R , Laumonier Yves , Nasi Robert , Petrokofsky Gillian , Snaddon Jake , Zrust Michal
Published: February 2014

Background

During the past decade there has been a growing interest in bioenergy, driven by concerns about global climate change, growing energy demand, and depleting fossil fuel reserves. The predicted rise in biofuel demand makes it important to understand the potential consequences of expanding biofuel cultivation.

A systematic review was conducted on the biodiversity impacts of three first-generation biofuel crops (oil palm, soybean, and jatropha) in the tropics. The study focused on the impacts on species richness, abundance (total number of individuals or occurrences), community composition, and ecosystem functions related to species richness and community composition.

Methods

Literature was searched using an a priori protocol. Owing to a lack of available studies of biodiversity impacts from soybean and jatropha that met the inclusion criteria set out in the systematic review protocol, all analyses focused on oil palm. The impacts of oil palm cultivation on species richness, abundance, and community similarity were summarized quantitatively; other results were summarized narratively.

Results

The searches returned 9143 articles after duplicate removal of which 25 met the published inclusion criteria and were therefore accepted for the final review. Twenty of them had been conducted in Malaysia and two thirds were on arthropods.

Overall, oil palm plantations had reduced species richness compared with primary and secondary forests, and the composition of species assemblages changed significantly after forest conversion to oil palm plantation. Abundance showed species-specific responses and hence, the overall abundance was not significantly different between plantations and forest areas. Only one study reported how different production systems (smallholdings vs. industrial estates) affect biodiversity. No studies that examined the effects on ecosystem functions of reduced species richness or changes in community composition met the inclusion criteria. Neither were there studies that reported how areas managed under different standards (e.g. different certification systems) affect biodiversity and ecosystem function.

Conclusions

Our review suggests that oil palm plantations have reduced species richness compared with primary and secondary forests, and the composition of species assemblage changes significantly after forest conversion to oil palm plantation. Effects of different production systems on biodiversity and ecosystem function are clear knowledge gaps that should be addressed in future research.

Trial registration

CEE10-013
Biology of platelet-rich plasma and its clinical application in cartilage repair
Authors: Xie Xuetao , Zhang Changqing , Tuan Rocky S
Published: February 2014

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autologous concentrated cocktail of growth factors and inflammatory mediators, and has been considered to be potentially effective for cartilage repair. In addition, the fibrinogen in PRP may be activated to form a fibrin matrix to fill cartilage lesions, fulfilling the initial requirements of physiological wound healing. The anabolic, anti-inflammatory and scaffolding effects of PRP based on laboratory investigations, animal studies, and clinical trials are reviewed here. In vitro, PRP is found to stimulate cell proliferation and cartilaginous matrix production by chondrocytes and adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), enhance matrix secretion by synoviocytes, mitigate IL-1β-induced inflammation, and provide a favorable substrate for MSCs. In preclinical studies, PRP has been used either as a gel to fill cartilage defects with variable results, or to slow the progression of arthritis in animal models with positive outcomes. Findings from current clinical trials suggest that PRP may have the potential to fill cartilage defects to enhance cartilage repair, attenuate symptoms of osteoarthritis and improve joint function, with an acceptable safety profile. Although current evidence appears to favor PRP over hyaluronan for the treatment of osteoarthritis, the efficacy of PRP therapy remains unpredictable owing to the highly heterogeneous nature of reported studies and the variable composition of the PRP preparations. Future studies are critical to elucidate the functional activity of individual PRP components in modulating specific pathogenic mechanisms.
From genomics and epigenomics to finding hidden regulators
Authors: Jin Hailing
Published: February 2014

A report on the Plant and Animal Genome XXII meeting held in San Diego, California, USA, January 11–15, 2014.
Contemporary legal systems and their integrative classification
Authors: Саломатин Алексей , Salomatin Alexey
Published: February 2014

The article considers typical structure of any legal system

as a functional composition of a few subsystems. The author claims

the thesis about uniqueness of any legal system but this nevertheless

permits organizing legal systems into legal families. Integrative classification

is suggested that takes into account interrelations between

legal systems and families, not only similarities of their legal sources.

The author agrees with classification based upon legal style as it

is interpreted by K. Zwaigert and X. Koetz, but made some corrections

to it. First of all attention is paid to branches of legal families

(for example, English, American ones and the branch of the Commonwealth).

Secondly, we must not mix Western and Non-western

families even when we acknowledge interrelations between them

and the fact of partial reception. In the end it is necessary to be very

careful depicting the status of Russian legal system, remembering

about its Byzantine and Slavic traditions and its transitional character

nowdays. Future will show whether Russian legal system with

the systems of neighboring countries will join Roman-German family

or form autonomous Euroasian family.
Problems of development of legislation and judicial practice in the field of corporate relations in Russia and Germany: a comparative legal aspect
Authors: Санисалова Наталья , Sanisalova Natalya , Салдаева Екатерина , Saldaeva Ekaterina
Published: February 2014

The article deals with the concept of corporate entities in the legislation of Russia and Germany have shown trends “Europeanization” of Private Law at the present stage, the trend of development of Russian corporate law. The analysis of the most significant changes in civil and corporate law in Russia and Germany. The article follows the idea of the necessity of building development concept, reception and coordination of legislation. Evaluates the implementation of the legislative innovations of similar legal systems, in particular, the German legal system. This study was carried out on the basis of comparative legal analysis to determine the most appropriate legal path of development and improvement of the legal system of the countries studied. In this article are analyzed only some aspects of civil law and jurisprudence Russia and Germany, which appear to be most interesting. We also find edostatki in the legal regulation in the resolution of corporate disputes.
Non-governmental organizations in Russia and abroad: actual issues of legal status and functioning
Authors: Лысенко Владлена , Lysenko Vladlena
Published: February 2014

The author has attempted to look at the phenomenon of non-governmental organizations from international and national legal points of view, to investigate the legal nature, place and role of NGOs in contemporary constitutional and international system, to explore and identify various forms and ways of the right for association, to analyze international legal and national sources on the topic, compare them and draw appropriate conclusions. The article analyzes the problems of civil society and human rights in the domestic and international legal dimension. Given the different definitions and approaches to the study of the legal status and activities of non-governmental organizations, this article uses the author’s definition of a public association, which is based on the right of everyone to freedom of association. The paper sets out a number of general theoretical and methodological recommendations to help improve the activities of public associations, the development of the legal framework of their functioning, enhance their prestige and influence among the citizens, a gradual reduction of conflict in society, the achievement of civil, political and legal consensus. Theoretical basis of scientific article are works of Russian and foreign scientists on common issues of law, human rights issues and activities of the legal status of public associations, as well as works on philosophy, sociology, history, political science and international relations.
Quantification of Tau in Cerebrospinal Fluid by Immunoaffinity Enrichment and Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: McAvoy Thomas , Lassman Michael E , Spellman Daniel S , Ke Zhenlian , Howell Bonnie J , Wong Oitak , Zhu Lan , Tanen Michael , Struyk Arie , Laterza Omar F
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tau is a common biomarker for Alzheimer disease (AD). Measurements of tau have historically been performed using immunoassays. Given the molecular diversity of tau in CSF, the selectivity of these immunoassays has often been questioned. Therefore, we aimed to develop an analytically sensitive and selective immunoaffinity liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) (IA-MS) assay.

METHODS

IA-MS sample analysis involved the addition of an internal standard, immunoaffinity purification of tau using a tau monoclonal antibody coupled to magnetic beads, trypsin digestion, and quantification of a surrogate tau peptide by LC-MS/MS using a Waters Trizaic nanoTile ultraperformance LC microfluidic device. Further characterization of tau peptides was performed by full-scan MS using a Thermo Orbitrap LC-MS. CSF samples from a cohort of age-matched controls and patients with AD were analyzed by the IA-MS method as well as a commercially available immunoassay.

RESULTS

The IA-MS assay had intra- and interassay imprecision values of 3.2% to 8.1% CV and 7.8% to 18.9% C, respectively, a mean recovery of 106%, and a limit of quantification of 0.25 pmol/L and was able to quantify tau concentrations in all human specimens tested. The IA-MS assay showed a correlation of R2 = 0.950 against a total-tau immunoassay. In patients with AD, tau was increased approximately 2-fold.

CONCLUSIONS

Combining immunoaffinity enrichment with microflow LC-MS/MS analysis is an effective approach for the development of a highly selective assay to measure total tau and, potentially, other posttranslationally modified forms of tau in CSF.
Media academics versus media practitioners: Who gets it right?
Authors: Barkho Leon
Published: February 2014

This note focuses on the deliberations from a two-day international conference at Sweden’s Jönköping University in October 2013. The theme was ‘Towards a praxis-based media and journalism research’. The conference dwelt on the epistemological and methodological underpinnings to which the Journal of Applied Journalism and Media Studies (AJMS) adheres, particularly its applied or praxis niche. The note starts with a short background and then considers the major concerns voiced by practitioners attending the conference about much of the research media academics carry out. It then presents a synopsis of the response of the participants to two major questions: (1) Why do media practitioners generally discard or not trust findings by media scholars? (2) Are media scholars under any obligation to relate their theories to practice? It ends with the lessons that academics can draw from the way practitioners view their world and assess their research.
INVESTIGATING THE Ep, i –Eiso CORRELATION
Authors: Amati Lorenzo , Dichiara Simone
Published: February 2014

The correlation between the spectral peak photon energy, Ep, and the radiated energy or luminosity (i.e., the “Amati relation” and other correlations derived from it) is one of the central and most debated topics in GRB astrophysics, with implications for physics and the geometry of prompt emission, the identification and understanding of various classes of GRBs (short/long, XRFs,sub-energetic), and GRB cosmology. Fermi is exceptionally suited to provide, also in conjunction with Swift observations, a significant step forward in this field of research. Indeed, one of the main goals of Fermi/GBM is to make accurate measurements of Ep, by exploiting its unprecedented broad energy band from ~8 keV to ~30MeV; in addition, for a small fraction of GRBs, the LAT can extend the spectral measurements up to the GeV energy range, thus allowing a reliable estimate of the bolometric radiated energy/luminosity. We provide a review, an update and a discussion of the impact of Fermi observations in the investigation, understanding and testing of the Ep,i –Eiso (“Amati”) relation.
COMPUTATIONAL SCHEMES FOR THE PROPAGATION OF ULTRA HIGH ENERGY COSMIC RAYS
Authors: Aloisio Roberto
Published: February 2014

We discuss the problem of ultra high energy particles propagation in astrophysical backgrounds. We present two different computational schemes based on kinetic and Monte Carlo approaches. The kinetic approach is an analytical computation scheme based on the hypothesis of continuos energy losses while the Monte Carlo scheme takes into account also the stochastic nature of particle interactions. These schemes, which give quite reliable results, enable the computation of fluxes keeping track of the different primary and secondary components, providing a fast and useful workbench for studying Ultra High Energy Cosmic Rays.
PRECISE COSMIC RAYS MEASUREMENTS WITH PAMELA
Authors: Bruno A. , Adriani O. , Barbarino G. C. , Bazilevskaya G. A. , Bellotti R. , Boezio M. , Bogomolov E. A. , Bongi M. , Bonvicini V. , Borisov S. , Bottai S. , Cafagna F. , Campana D. , Carbone R. , Carlson P. , Casolino M. , Castellini G. , Consiglio L. , De Pascale M. P. , De Santis C. , De Simone N. , Di Felice V. , Galper A. M. , Gillard W. , Grishantseva L. , Jerse G. , Karelin A. V. , Kheymits M. D. , Koldashov S. V. , Krutkov S. Y. , Kvashnin A. N. , Leonov A. , Malakhov V. , Marcelli L. , Mayorov A. G. , Menn W. , Mikhailov V. V. , Mocchiutti E. , Monaco A. , Mori N. , Nikonov N. , Osteria G. , Palma F. , Papini P. , Pearce M. , Picozza P. , Pizzolotto C. , Ricci M. , Ricciarini S. B. , Rossetto L. , Sarkar R. , Simon M. , Sparvoli R. , Spillantini P. , Stozhkov Y. I. , Vacchi A. , Vannuccini E. , Vasilyev G. , Voronov S. A. , Yurkin Y. T. , Wu J. , Zampa G. , Zampa N. , Zverev V. G.
Published: February 2014

The PAMELA experiment was launched on board the Resurs-DK1 satellite on June 15th 2006. The apparatus was designed to conduct precision studies of charged cosmic radiation over a wide energy range, from tens of MeV up to several hundred GeV, with unprecedented statistics. In five years of continuous data taking in space, PAMELA accurately measured the energy spectra of cosmic ray antiprotons and positrons, as well as protons, electrons and light nuclei, sometimes providing data in unexplored energetic regions. These important results have shed new light in several astrophysical fields like: an indirect search for Dark Matter, a search for cosmological antimatter (anti-Helium), and the validation of acceleration, transport and secondary production models of cosmic rays in the Galaxy. Some of the most important items of Solar and Magnetospheric physics were also investigated. Here we present the most recent results obtained by the PAMELA experiment.
SEARCH FOR GRAVITATIONAL WAVES FROM SUPERNOVAE AND LONG GRBS
Authors: Van Putten Maurice H.P.M.
Published: February 2014

We report on evidence for black hole spindown in the light curves of the BATSE catalogue of 1491 long GRBs by application of matched filtering. This observation points to a strong interaction of the black hole with surrounding high density matter at the ISCO, inducing non-axisymmetric instabilities sustained by cooling in gravitational wave emission. Opportunities for LIGO-Virgo and the recently funded KAGRA experiments are highlighted, for long GRBs with and without supernovae and for hyper-energetic core-collapse supernovae within a distance of about 35Mpc in the Local Universe.
NEUTRINOS AS COSMIC MESSENGERS IN THE ERA OF ICECUBE, ANTARES AND KM3NET
Authors: Katz Uli F.
Published: February 2014

Using neutrinos as cosmic messengers for observation of non-thermal processes in the Universe is a highly attractive and promising vision, which has been pursued in various neutrino telescope projects for more than two decades. Recent results from ground-based TeV gamma-ray observatories and refinements of model calculations of the expected neutrino fluxes indicate that Gigaton target volumes will be necessary to establish neutrino astronomy. A first neutrino telescope of that size, IceCube, is operational at the South Pole. Based on experience with the smaller first-generation ANTARES telescope in the Mediterranean Sea, the multi-Gigaton KM3NeT device is in preparation. These neutrino telescopes are presented, and some selected results and the expected KM3NeT performance are discussed.
LARGE AREA HODOSCOPES FOR MUON DIAGNOSTICS OF HELIOSPHERE AND EARTH’S MAGNETOSPHERE
Authors: Yashin I. I. , Ampilogov N. V. , Astapov I.I. , Barbashina N.S. , Borog V.V. , Dmitrieva A.N. , Kokoulin R.P. , Kompaniets K.G. , Mannocchi G. , Mikhailenko A.S. , Petrukhin A.A. , Saavedra O. , Shutenko V.V. , Trinchero G. , Yakovleva E.I.
Published: February 2014

Muon diagnostics is a technique for remote monitoring of active processes in the heliosphere and the magnetosphere of the Earth based on the analysis of angular variations of muon flux simultaneously detected from all directions of the upper hemisphere. To carry out muon diagnostics, special detectors – muon hodoscopes – which can detect muons from any direction with good angular resolution in real-time mode are required. We discuss approaches to data analysis and the results of studies of various extra-terrestrial processes detected by means of the wide aperture URAGAN muon hodoscope.
MOONLIGHT: A NEW LUNAR LASER RANGING RETROREFLECTOR INSTRUMENT
Authors: Garattini M. , Dell’Agnello S. , Currie D. , Delle Monache G. O. , Tibuzzi M. , Patrizi G. , Berardi S. , Boni A. , Cantone C. , Itaglietta N. , Lops C. , Maiello M. , Martini M. , Vittori R. , Bianco G. , March R. , Bellettini G. , Tauraso R.
Published: February 2014

Since 1969 Lunar Laser Ranging (LLR) to the Apollo Cube Corner Reflector (CCR) arrays has supplied several significant tests of gravity: Geodetic Precession, the Strong and Weak Equivalence Principle (SEP, WEP), the Parametrized Post Newtonian (PPN) parameter , the time change of the Gravitational constant (G), 1/r2 deviations and new gravitational theories beyond General Relativity (GR), like the unified braneworld theory (G. Dvali et al., 2003). Now a new generation of LLR can do better using evolved laser retroreflectors, developed from tight collaboration between my institution, INFN–LNF (Istituto Nazionale di Fisica Nucleare – Laboratori Nazionali di Frascati), and Douglas Currie (University of Maryland, USA), one of the fathers of LLR. The new lunar CCR is developing and characterizing at the “Satellite/Lunar laser ranging Characterization Facility” (SCF), in Frascati, performing our new industry standard space test procedure, the “SCF-Test”; this work contains the experimental results of the SCF-Test applied to the new lunar CCR, and all the new payload developments, including the future SCF tests. The International Lunar Network (ILN) research project considers our new retroreflector as one of the possible “Core Instruments”
A EXCLUSÃO DIGITAL: O REFLEXO DA DESIGUALDADE SOCIAL NO BRASIL
Authors: Grossi Márcia Gorett Ribeiro , Da Costa José Wilson , Dos Santos Ademir José
Published: February 2014

A inclusão digital consiste no processo de democratização do acesso às novas tecnologias digitais da informação e da comunicação, possibilitando a todos os cidadãos a se inserirem na sociedade informacional, a sociedade em rede de Castells (1999). No entanto, de acordo com Assumpção e Mori (2006) esta inclusão não significa apenas permiti-los se apropriarem dessa nova tecnologia, mas, sobretudo, melhorar suas condições de vida. Santos (2006) complementa afirmado que a inclusão digital é uma faceta particular das questões de inclusão social. No caso do Brasil que enfrenta vários problemas sociais e apresenta um alto índice de desigualdade, como pode ser observado pelo seu índice Gini, é grande a preocupação com a exclusão digital. Nesta perspectiva, buscou-se nesta pesquisa verificar as ações, que envolvem programas e projetos de inclusão digital que o governo brasileiro tem oferecido e, que promovem também a inclusão social. Para atingir este objetivo, no segundo semestre de 2012, foi realizada uma pesquisa descritiva, bibliográfica e de caráter exploratório. Verificou-se a existência de 22 ações governamentais de inclusão digital que tem contribuído com a inclusão social. Além dessas, outras estão em desenvolvimento, 94 já cadastradas no Observatório Nacional de Inclusão Digital e 108 cadastradas no Ministério da Ciência e Tecnologia. Os resultados revelaram que os projetos e programas de inclusão digital que existem hoje não são suficientes para reduzir a situação perversa da desigualdade social brasileira. E estes precisam ser transformados em políticas públicas consolidadas, como já observado por Spagnolo (2003) que destaca a importância das políticas pública por parte dos governos, principalmente nos países subdesenvolvidos, visando diminuir o fosso existente entre aqueles que têm acesso e os que não possuem acesso aos recursos da sociedade tecnológica.http://dx.doi.org/10.14572/nuances.v24i2.2480
ELEIÇÃO DE DIRETORES E GESTÃO DA ESCOLA PÚBLICA: REFLEXÕES SOBRE DEMOCRACIA E PATRIMONIALISMO
Authors: Esquinsani Rosimar Serena Siqueira
Published: February 2014

O texto apresentado é fruto de uma pesquisa qualitativa que remete a gestão escolar como um dos indicadores de qualidade na educação, discutida a partir de duas dimensões: a) a eleição de diretores como um dos possíveis mecanismos facilitadores da materialização de propostas de gestão democrática e, b) os potenciais efeitos do patrimonialismo (como conceito e prática) nesse processo de busca e consecução da qualidade na educação. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa e documental em uma rede pública de ensino de um município localizado na região norte do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, no recorte temporal de 1990-2012, lançando mão de um conjunto limitado de legislações que referem-se à eleição de diretores como mecanismo possível de democracia na escola. Aos dados empíricos coletados, somou-se um debate mínimo acerca do patrimonialismo como estrutura da cultura política brasileira. Assim o artigo - recorte dessa pesquisa maior -, tem como foco a discussão dos referencias bibliográficos e da legislação municipal que contextualiza a análise do potencial democrático ou patrimonialista dos processos de gestão no município estudado. Como conclusão, entende-se que a eleição de diretores não tem o condão de, sozinha, restringir práticas patrimonialistas, sem a colaboração de uma série de outros mecanismos de gestão escolar e administração educacional. Porém, atribuir proeminência a gestão escolar como co-responsável pelos caminhos que o processo de democratização tomará dentro da escola é, antes de mais nada, também considerar a gestão como capaz de proporcionar qualidade na educação.http://dx.doi.org/10.14572/nuances.v24i2.2482
O OLHAR DO GESTOR SOBRE A CULTURA AVALIATIVA NO CONTEXTO ESCOLAR
Authors: Costa Elisangela André da Silva , Lima Maria Socorro Lucena
Published: February 2014

A temática avaliação educacional tem sido frequentemente tomada como objeto de reflexão nos contextos de pesquisa sobre formação e trabalho docente. Recentemente, as avaliações em larga escala instituídas pelos governos federal e estadual no final do século XX vem promovendo a construção de uma cultura avaliativa no interior das escolas. Tal cultura tira a centralidade do processo avaliativo da sala de aula e das figuras do professor e dos alunos, expandindo-a para a comunidade escolar e para a gestão pedagógica. A discussão sobre esta questão encontra terreno fértil no chão da escola, onde as contradições presentes na relação entre o escrito e o vivido nas políticas educacionais se apresentam de forma mais evidente. Assim, nasce o presente estudo que tem como objetivo refletir sobre os limites e as possibilidades da utilização dos resultados das avaliações externa e interna no trabalho do gestor escolar. Para tanto tem apoio na abordagem qualitativa de pesquisa, buscando acessar nos sujeitos e no contexto onde se manifesta o fenômeno educacional estudado as informações necessárias à compreensão do problema. Foram utilizadas como estratégias de aproximação com a realidade observações participantes, a análise documental dos relatórios de avaliação do Sistema Permanente de Avaliação da Educação Básica do estado do Ceará dos anos 2009 a 2011 e entrevista com a gestora de uma escola pública municipal cearense. Os resultados apontam para a necessidade de adoção de uma postura problematizadora por parte dos núcleos gestores escolares, tomando os resultados das avaliações e as próprias práticas institucionais como referências para a realização de momentos de formação contínua que fundamentem a tomada de decisões acerca dos rumos da escola de forma crítica e colaborativa.http://dx.doi.org/10.14572/nuances.v24i2.2483
Factores psicosociales predictores de la calidad de vida en personas en situación de discapacidad física.
Authors: Botero Soto Paula Andrea , Londoño Pérez Constanza
Published: February 2014

El presente estudio correlacional descriptivo se propuso evaluar los factores que determinan la calidad de vida (CV) relacionada con la salud en 78 personas con discapacidad física que vivían en Bogotá, y hacían parte de un proyecto de inclusión laboral dirigido por una ONG. Se evaluó la calidad de vida relacionada con la salud (Cuestionario de Salud SF36 y visita domiciliaria), al igual que las condiciones asociadas a la discapacidad y algunos factores psicológicos (Escala de Autoeficacia Generalizada, Prueba de Imagen Corporal, Inventario de Estilos de Afrontamiento, Prueba de optimismo disposicional, Inventario de Depresión de Beck y Escala de Ansiedad de Zung). Se utilizó un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales para encontrar el poder predictivo de las variables en la calidad de vida. El modelo obtenido predecía un 39% de la varianza, incluyendo en orden de peso relativo aportando variables como condiciones de enfermedad, depresión, afrontamiento centrado en la fantasía, trascendencia, pesimismo, ansiedad y autoeficacia. Se discuten los hallazgos y las limitaciones del estudio.
Dual vulnerability among female household heads.
Authors: Spring Úrsula Oswald
Published: February 2014

This article investigates the impact of women’s double vulnerability, the social and environmental vulnerability that makes them household heads, and the processes that enable them to overcome vulnerability and empower themselves at the local level. An empirical study conducted in the Yautepec river basin in the state of Morelos in Mexico explores the impacts of climate change and socio-environmental migration on this rural population. The study combined quantitative and qualitative methods. In the context of the concept of dual vulnerability, environmental and social, the research analysed the relationship between environmental degradation and adverse social conditions, and an Index of Social Vulnerability was developed. The research results showed that when families are faced with a survival dilemma, men migrate, leaving women overburdened with a workload which leads to illness and malaise. At the same time, having assumed the role of household head with all its productive, caring and educational activities, women become empowered. They become involved in local public activities and are able to break up existing corrupt male chiefdoms. In conclusion, the study found that the feminization of agriculture and local public services had allowed women to recover eroded land thanks to organic farming, and to improve public services in their communities
Conflicts of Interest
Authors: Stein Richard A. , Davis Devra Lee
Published: February 2014

Evaluating the potential health impacts of chemical, physical, and biological environmental factors represents a challenging task with profound medical, public health, and historical implications. The history of public health is replete with instances, ranging from tobacco to lead and asbestos, where the ability to obtain evidence on potential environmental hazards has been impaired and the publication of results delayed because of commercial interests. The burden of proof is heavy on those trying to change the status quo when that involves highly profitable industries. When evaluating potential hazards that are linked with industrial activities, it is often the case that only after proof of human or environmental harm becomes undeniable are steps finally taken to control or reduce future hazards. This approach has the net effect of delaying and postponing action, allowing dangerous practices to continue until health or environmental risks have become undebatable.
Guiding Student Inquiry into Eukaryotic Organismal Biology Using the Plasmodial Slime Mold Physarum polycephalum
Authors: Weeks Andrea , Bachman Beverly , Josway Sarah , Laemmerzahl Arndt F. , North Brittany
Published: February 2014

In order to challenge our undergraduate students’ enduring misconception that plants, animals, and fungi must be “advanced” and that other eukaryotes traditionally called protists must be “primitive,” we have developed a 24-hour take-home guided inquiry and investigation of live Physarum cultures. The experiment replicates recent peer-reviewed research regarding speed–accuracy tradeoffs and reliably produces data with which students explore key biological concepts and practice essential scientific competencies. It requires minimal resources and can be adapted for high school students or more independent student investigations. We present statistical analyses of data from four semesters and provide examples of our strategies for student engagement and assessment.
The United States and Asia in 2013
Authors: Tow William T.
Published: February 2014

Prospects for a U.S. decline in global power generated by political strife and protracted economic recession at home have affected Washington’s regional diplomatic presence and strategic influence in the Asia-Pacific. Ongoing regional power politics and economic imperatives may constrain the ability of the U.S. to quickly recover from the largely self-imposed damage it has inflicted on its future role as a central regional player.
Taiwan in 2013
Authors: Hsieh John Fuh-sheng
Published: February 2014

The year 2013 in Taiwan was marked by a lackluster economy and stalemated politics. President Ma Ying-jeou’s approval rating hit an all-time low. Still, Taiwan’s relations with China were smooth, and Taiwan was able to make some gains in the international arena.
India in 2013
Authors: Wyatt Andrew
Published: February 2014

The Congress-led coalition battled through another difficult year with issues of governance continuing to cause difficulty for the government. The economy performed unevenly, with high rates of inflation and slower economic growth. Close relations were maintained with the U.S., but relations with China remained awkward. Pakistan and India made little headway on improving relations. Campaigning for the 2014 general election began midway through 2013.
Pakistan in 2013
Authors: Malik Anas
Published: February 2014

Pakistan made history, with an elected civilian government completing a full five-year term in 2013 before turning power over to another elected civilian government. Elections saw high turnout, bringing Nawaz Sharif back as prime minister. Though former military ruler Pervez Musharraf was placed on trial, the Pakistani military remains politically powerful. Violent militancy, power shortages, and fiscal problems continued, but an IMF loan should provide some short-term relief.
Myanmar in 2013
Authors: Than Tin Maung Maung
Published: February 2014

The year 2013 in Myanmar saw parliaments disagreeing with the executive. A joint parliamentary committee to review and amend the Constitution was formed. Western sanctions were virtually withdrawn. A resurgence of communal violence, the emergence of Buddhist nationalism, and public protest over mega-projects, land rights, wage disputes, and freedom to demonstrate were worrisome developments. A nationwide ceasefire agreement remained elusive.
Malaysia in 2013
Authors: Case William
Published: February 2014

The most important event to take place in Malaysia during 2013 was its general election. The incumbent National Front government was returned to power, though with less than a majority of the popular vote. The government then rewarded Malay supporters with new affirmative action programs. It also repulsed an armed incursion into Sabah launched from the southern Philippines.
Cambodia in 2013
Authors: Mccargo Duncan
Published: February 2014

Cambodia in 2013 was dominated by close-fought national elections on July 28, only narrowly won by the ruling Cambodian People’s Party after an unexpectedly strong showing by the opposition. Generational change was a major theme of the year, seen in the growing activism of youth and the deaths of several prominent figures.
Laos in 2013
Authors: Howe Brendan M.
Published: February 2014

In 2013 Laos joined the World Trade Organization, economic growth was over 8%, and graduation from least-developed country status by 2020 remains achievable. But its human development index of 0.543 remained below the regional average. Macro development projects still threaten the vulnerable. The abduction of a prominent campaigner and repatriation of North Korean refugees highlighted human rights challenges.
Autophagy in the endocrine glands
Authors: Weckman Andrea , Di Ieva Antonio , Rotondo Fabio , Syro Luis V , Ortiz Leon D , Kovacs Kalman , Cusimano Michael D
Published: February 2014

Autophagy is an important cellular process involving the degradation of intracellular components. Its regulation is complex and while there are many methods available, there is currently no single effective way of detecting and monitoring autophagy. It has several cellular functions that are conserved throughout the body, as well as a variety of different physiological roles depending on the context of its occurrence in the body. Autophagy is also involved in the pathology of a wide range of diseases. Within the endocrine system, autophagy has both its traditional conserved functions and specific functions. In the endocrine glands, autophagy plays a critical role in controlling intracellular hormone levels. In peptide-secreting cells of glands such as the pituitary gland, crinophagy, a specific form of autophagy, targets the secretory granules to control the levels of stored hormone. In steroid-secreting cells of glands such as the testes and adrenal gland, autophagy targets the steroid-producing organelles. The dysregulation of autophagy in the endocrine glands leads to several different endocrine diseases such as diabetes and infertility. This review aims to clarify the known roles of autophagy in the physiology of the endocrine system, as well as in various endocrine diseases.
Vaccine Financing From the Perspective of Primary Care Physicians
Authors: O’Leary Sean T. , Allison Mandy A. , Lindley Megan C. , Crane Lori A. , Hurley Laura P. , Brtnikova Michaela , Beaty Brenda L. , Babbel Christine I. , Jimenez-Zambrano Andrea , Berman Stephen , Kempe Allison
Published: February 2014

OBJECTIVES:

Because of high purchase costs of newer vaccines, financial risk to private vaccination providers has increased. We assessed among pediatricians and family physicians satisfaction with insurance payment for vaccine purchase and administration by payer type, the proportion who have considered discontinuing provision of all childhood vaccines for financial reasons, and strategies used for handling uncertainty about insurance coverage when new vaccines first become available.

METHODS:

A national survey among private pediatricians and family physicians April to September 2011.

RESULTS:

Response rates were 69% (190/277) for pediatricians and 70% (181/260) for family physicians. Level of dissatisfaction varied significantly by payer type for payment for vaccine administration (Medicaid, 63%; Children’s Health Insurance Program, 56%; managed care organizations, 48%; preferred provider organizations, 38%; fee for service, 37%; P < .001), but not for payment for vaccine purchase (health maintenance organization or managed care organization, 52%; Child Health Insurance Program, 47%; preferred provider organization, 45%; fee for service, 41%; P = .11). Ten percent of physicians had seriously considered discontinuing providing all childhood vaccines to privately insured patients because of cost issues. The most commonly used strategy for handling uncertainty about insurance coverage for new vaccines was to inform parents that they may be billed for the vaccine; 67% of physicians reported using 3 or more strategies to handle this uncertainty.

CONCLUSIONS:

Many primary care physicians are dissatisfied with payment for vaccine purchase and administration from third-party payers, particularly public insurance for vaccine administration. Physicians report a variety of strategies for dealing with the uncertainty of insurance coverage for new vaccines.
Clinical Utility of PCR for Common Viruses in Acute Respiratory Illness
Authors: Rhedin Samuel , Lindstrand Ann , Rotzén-Östlund Maria , Tolfvenstam Thomas , Öhrmalm Lars , Rinder Malin Ryd , Zweygberg-Wirgart Benita , Ortqvist Ake , Henriques-Normark Birgitta , Broliden Kristina , Naucler Pontus
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND:

Acute respiratory illness (ARI) accounts for a large proportion of all visits to pediatric health facilities. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses allow sensitive detection of viral nucleic acids, but it is not clear to what extent specific viruses contribute to disease because many viruses have been detected in asymptomatic children. Better understanding of how to interpret viral findings is important to reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare viral qPCR findings from children with ARI versus asymptomatic control subjects.

METHODS:

Nasopharyngeal aspirates were collected from children aged ≤5 years with ARI and from individually matched, asymptomatic, population-based control subjects during a noninfluenza season. Samples were analyzed by using qPCR for 16 viruses.

RESULTS:

Respiratory viruses were detected in 72.3% of the case patients (n = 151) and 35.4% of the control subjects (n = 74) (P = .001). Rhinovirus was the most common finding in both case patients and control subjects (47.9% and 21.5%, respectively), with a population-attributable proportion of 0.39 (95% confidence interval: 0.01 to 0.62). Metapneumovirus, parainfluenza viruses, and respiratory syncytial virus were highly overrepresented in case patients. Bocavirus was associated with ARI even after adjustment for coinfections with other viruses and was associated with severe disease. Enterovirus and coronavirus were equally common in case patients and control subjects.

CONCLUSIONS:

qPCR detection of respiratory syncytial virus, metapneumovirus, or parainfluenza viruses in children with ARI is likely to be causative of disease; detection of several other respiratory viruses must be interpreted with caution due to high detection rates in asymptomatic children.
Systematic Review and Meta-analyses: Fever in Pregnancy and Health Impacts in the Offspring
Authors: Dreier Julie Werenberg , Andersen Anne-Marie Nybo , Berg-Beckhoff Gabriele
Published: February 2014

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Fever during pregnancy has been suspected to harm the developing fetus. However, until now, no systematic analysis of the available evidence has been undertaken to assess the impact of maternal fever on health outcomes in the child. The goal of this study was to systematically review evidence from epidemiologic studies on adverse health outcomes of the offspring in relation to exposure to maternal fever during pregnancy.

METHODS:

Systematic searches in PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were performed by using Medical Subject Headings, Boolean operators, and truncation, and references of references were reviewed. Cohort and case-control studies addressing health outcomes of prenatal fever exposure in humans were eligible for inclusion. Studies with no direct reference to fever, studies in selected populations (eg, preterm births), and studies published before 1990 were excluded.

RESULTS:

The available literature supported an increased risk of adverse offspring health in association with fever during pregnancy. The strongest evidence was available for neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, and oral clefts, in which meta-analyses suggested between a 1.5- and nearly 3-fold increased risk with fever exposure in the first trimester. We did not find strong evidence of a dose–response relationship, but there was some evidence that antipyretic medications may have a protective effect when used in relation to febrile episodes.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found substantial evidence to support the contention that maternal fever during pregnancy may negatively affect offspring health. The harmful effects seemed to cover both short- and longer-term health outcomes; however, for several outcomes, the evidence was insufficient to judge any association.
Psychosocial Support for Youth Living With HIV
Authors: Martinez Jaime , Chakraborty Rana ,   the COMMITTEE ON PEDIATRIC AIDS, Chakraborty Rana , Aldrovandi Grace M. , Chadwick Ellen Gould , Cooper Ellen Rae , Kourtis Athena , Martinez Jaime , Collins Elizabeth Montgomery
Published: February 2014

This Clinical Report was reaffirmed July 2021.

This clinical report provides guidance for the pediatrician in addressing the psychosocial needs of adolescents and young adults living with HIV, which can improve linkage to care and adherence to life-saving antiretroviral (ARV) therapy. Recent national case surveillance data for youth (defined here as adolescents and young adults 13 to 24 years of age) revealed that the burden of HIV/AIDS fell most heavily and disproportionately on African American youth, particularly males having sex with males. To effectively increase linkage to care and sustain adherence to therapy, interventions should address the immediate drivers of ARV compliance and also address factors that provide broader social and structural support for HIV-infected adolescents and young adults. Interventions should address psychosocial development, including lack of future orientation, inadequate educational attainment and limited health literacy, failure to focus on the long-term consequences of near-term risk behaviors, and coping ability. Associated challenges are closely linked to the structural environment. Individual case management is essential to linkage to and retention in care, ARV adherence, and management of associated comorbidities. Integrating these skills into pediatric and adolescent HIV practice in a medical home setting is critical, given the alarming increase in new HIV infections in youth in the United States.
Ritka Betegségek Nemzeti Terve
Authors: Kosztolányi György
Published: February 2014

Ritkán észlelt betegségekről, érthető módon, kevés információ áll rendelkezésre,
hiányosak a diagnosztikai és terápiás lehetőségek és a szakmai tapasztalat, így
az érintettek korlátozottan juthatnak az egészségügyi ellátás forrásaihoz és a
szolgáltatásokhoz. A múlt század végére két terület tudományos-technikai
forradalma erős reflektorfénybe helyezte a ritka betegségben szenvedők és
családjaik nehézségeit. Intenzív biotechnológiai fejlődés következtében egyre
több, egymástól elkülöníthető kórállapotban jelent meg diagnosztikai lehetőség
és ígéretes terápiás remény; noha ezek egyenként ritkák, összességében a
népesség 6–8%-át érintik. Az informatikai forradalom pedig lehetővé tette, hogy
a ritkaságból adódó szórványos szakmai tapasztalat, kutatási potenciálok
integrálhatók legyenek. Felismerve az új lehetőségeket, az Európai Unió az
elmúlt 15 évben kiemelt figyelmet és egyre jelentősebb anyagi forrásokat szentel
az érintett páciensek szakmai és szociális ellátására, a ritka betegségek
kutatására, több szakmai, szakmapolitikai állásfoglalás került kidolgozásra az
ellátás minél hatékonyabb megszervezésére, határokon átnyúló egységesítésére. Az
Európa Tanács 2009-ben ajánlást tett közzé, amelynek lényege, hogy az Európai
Unió tagállamai készítsenek nemzeti stratégiai tervet a ritka betegségek
ellátására 2013 év végéig; ehhez a tagállamok hatékony iránymutatást, szellemi
és anyagi hozzájárulást is kaptak. A terv elkészítésére hazánk kormányszintű
elkötelezettséget vállalt, s 2013 őszére elkészült a Ritka Betegségek
Nemzeti Terve, a ritka betegségekre vonatkozó, 2020-ig szóló
népegészségügyi szakpolitikai stratégia. Jelen közlemény röviden ismerteti a
dokumentumot. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(9), 325–328.
A craniosynostosis klinikai és genetikai jellemzői
Authors: Bessenyei Beáta , Oláh Éva
Published: February 2014

A craniosynostosis egy vagy több koponyavarrat idő előtti fúziójának
következtében kialakuló, a koponya deformitásával járó csontosodási
rendellenesség. Attól függően, hogy mely varratok záródnak és milyen sorrendben,
különböző koponyaformák jöhetnek létre. A craniosynostosis jelentkezhet izolált
vagy szindrómás formában. A szindrómás csoportban a koponyadeformitáshoz
arcdysmorphiás tünetek, végtagdeformitások és egyéb szervi tünetek társulhatnak,
amelyek típusa és súlyossága különböző lehet. A korai varratzáródás
kialakulásában környezeti és genetikai okok játszanak szerepet. Az összefoglaló
közlemény célja, hogy áttekintést adjon a koponyacsontosodási zavarok klinikai
és genetikai jellemzőiről, kiemelve néhány fontosabb craniosynostosis
szindrómát. Orv. Hetil., 2014, 155(9), 341–347.
Charge-transport in Organic Semiconductors: Probing High Mobility with Light
Authors: da Silva Filho Demetrio A , de Oliveira Neto Pedro Henrique , Ruiz Delgado M. Carmen , Lopez Navarrete Juan T. , Casado Juan
Published: February 2014

Efficient charge transport is key to the operation of the various devices based on organic semiconductors, such as OLEDs, OPVs and OFETs. Both academia and industry are investing heavily in the development of new organic materials and processing techniques to improve device performance. An important parameter to tweak is the mobility of charge carriers. Triggered by an experimental result, here we investigate whether this parameter can be probed indirectly using UV-VIS spectroscopy. This would simplify the process of characterization and optimization of the mobility in amorphous molecular films, for example.