bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of non-invasive parameters in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy during a five-year follow-up period
Authors: Djordjevic Dragan , Tasic Ivan , Stamenkovic Bojana
Published: November 2012

Introduction. Regardless of other known factors, left ventricular hypertrophy
is considered to be a significant factor which correlates with the risk of
cardiovascular complications. In practice, it is very important to predict
the outcome for every patient at the beginning of the treatment. Objective.
The aim of the study was to follow the predictive value of non-invasive
parameters obtained at the beginning of the study in patients with essential
arterial hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy who were treated by
regular therapy through a five year follow-up period. Methods. Ninety
patients (average age 55) with essential hypertension and left ventricular
hypertrophy were examined. All patients were studied at baseline after
temporary discontinuation of previous antihypertensive therapy. The follow-up
period started at the baseline examination and lasted for five years. Adverse
cardiovascular events occurred in 15 (16.7%) patients. Results. Non-invasive
parameters were tested by stepwise multiple regression analysis. Three
examined parameters had predictive value: QTc interval dispersion
(beta=0.325, p=0.001), septal wall thickness (beta=0.294, p=0.003) and low
increase of the heart rate during exercise testing (beta=-0.202, p<0.04). For
this model, adjusted R square=0.203; F3,84=8.406, p<0.0001. Conclusion. In
spite of regular medical treatment, patients with larger QTc dispersion,
greater septum thickness and lower increase of heart rate during exercise
testing showed worse outcome through the follow-up period. These patients
should be recognized as early as possible and treated more aggressively.
Aortic dissection or renal infarction: Multislice computed tomographic angiography can tell
Authors: Stojanovic Milos , Pena-Karan Slobodanka , Joves-Sevic Biljana , Ilic Tatjana , Ilic Miroslav
Published: November 2012

Introduction. Acute renal infarction as a consequence of renal artery
occlusion often goes unrecognized, mostly due to the non-specific clinical
features. A quick diagnosis, ideally within three hours of presentation, is a
key to renal function recovery. Case Outline. A 62-year-old male patient was
admitted with a sudden abdominal pain, right flank pain and nausea. He had a
diastolic hypertension at admission and his previous medical history showed
atrial fibrillation. Initial clinical diagnosis was aortic dissection.
Laboratory findings included elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and serum
creatinine levels. There were no signs of aortic dissection or aneurismatic
lesions registered during a multislice computed tomographic (MSCT)
angiography. However, MSCT angiography demonstrated left ?upper? renal artery
thrombosis and renal infarction - avascular area of the upper two thirds of
the left kidney sharply demarcated from the surrounding parenchyma. Both
kidneys excreted the contrast. Anticoagulant therapy was initiated, along
with antiarrythmic and antihypertensive medications. The follow-up by
computed tomography was performed after nine weeks, and it showed a partial
revascularization of the previously affected area. Conclusion. Concomitant
presence of flank/abdominal pain, an increased risk for thromboembolism and
an elevated LDH suggested a possibility of renal infarction. MSCT angiography
is a non-invasive and accurate method in the diagnosis of renal artery
occlusion and the resulting renal infarction.
Factors influencing the choice of prescribed hearing aid
Authors: Zivic Ljubica , Zivic Danijela
Published: November 2012

In our paper we would like to emphasize the complexity of hearing aid
prescription process. It is connected to a series of factors which impact the
choice of hearing aid; type of hearing loss, degree of hearing loss according
to the average hearing threshold expressed within the range from 500 Hz to
4000 Hz on a tonal audiogram, audiometric curve configuration, speech
discrimination ability, patients? age at which the hearing impairment
occurred, time elapsed between the occurrence of hearing impairment and
prescription of a hearing aid, patients? age, physical and mental health and
their cognitive function, anatomical characteristics of the auricle and
external auditory canal, patient and parent motivation, cosmetic factors,
financial abilities, cooperation with hearing aids manufacturers. This paper
is important for everyday practice and can be used as a kind of guideline to
the hearing aid prescription process.
Annexin V antibodies in multiple sclerosis and SLE/APS
Authors: Baleva Marta , Stoilova Detelina , Shotekov Petko , Nikolov Krasimir
Published: November 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease with unclear etiopathogenesis. Some MS patients have anticardiolipin (ACL), anti-beta-2-glycoprotein-I (B2GPI) and anti-annexin V (AnV) antibodies. These antibodies can also be found in systemic lupus erythematosus with antiphospholipid syndrome (SLE/APS). The aim of our study was to compare the levels of ACL, B2GPI and AnV antibodies in MS and SLE/APS. Materials and methods: We investigated serum levels of IgG and IgM ACL, B2GPI and AnV in 21 MS patients, 30 SLE/APS patients and 30 controls using ELISA. Results: Mean levels of IgM and IgG ACL and B2GPI in MS were comparable with controls and lower than SLE/APS (p<0.05). Mean levels of IgM AnV in MS were higher compared to SLE/APS and controls (p<0.05); mean levels of IgG AnV in MS were higher than normal but similar to SLE/APS (p>0.05). Discussion: The results show that MS with negative “classic” autoantibodies (ACL and B2GPI) and without clinical data for antiphospholipid syndrome may have other positive antiphospholipid antibodies, such as AnV. Larger studies are needed to clarify whether AnV are epiphenomenon of the vascular and organ damage or they play a pathogenic role in the development of MS.
Epiretinal membrane and cataract in a 5-year-old boy with the suspicion of neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Siwiec-Proscinska Joanna , Gotz-Wieckowska Anna , Pawlak Marta , Kociecki Jaroslaw
Published: November 2012

Different ocular findings have been described in association with neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2). Detailed ophthalmological examination of asymptomatic subjects with a family history of NF2 could help confirm the diagnosis in young patients. We present a case of unilateral cataract and bilateral epiretinal membranes in a 5-year-old boy with a family history of neurofibromatosis 2. The patient was referred to our department with diminished visual acuity bilaterally and an initial diagnosis of cataract in the right eye. Bestcorrected visual acuity was 3/19 in the right eye and 3/24 in the left eye (LH charts). On fundus examination, bilateral macular epiretinal membranes were found and confirmed by optical coherent tomography. In view of the ophthalmic signs mentioned above and the history of the patient’s father, who suffered from NF2 and died from meningioma and ependymoma, the patient was referred for genetic examination. Seventeen exons of the NF2 gene were tested with negative results. No pathology was found on clinical neurologic examination and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. Although the patient has not met the criteria for NF2, he is now considered as an asymptomatic subject at risk and observed. Lens opacities with epiretinal membranes in children may be regarded as part of the clinical manifestation of NF2.
Leptospirosis: possibilities of early laboratory and clinical diagnosis
Authors: Cermakova Zuzana , Kucerova Petra , Valenta Zbynek , Pliskova Lenka , Bolehovska Radka , Prasil Petr , Buchta Vladimir , Scharfen Josef , Polak Pavel , Pavlis Ota , Voxova Barbora
Published: November 2012

This retrospective study aims to identify and describe the problems associated with the laboratory and clinical diagnosis of leptospirosis. A total of 4,813 patients with suspected leptospirosis from an area of the Czech Republic, with a total population of 1.15 million, were examined during the period 2002–2010. Our study included only 855 patients: 545 men (mean age 41.03 ± 19.24) and 310 women (mean age 41.47 ± 20.3) who were examined using microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All patients and their physicians filled in questionnaires, which included anamnestic data, clinical symptoms and the results of laboratory tests. Out of total suspected, 89 patients (1.85%), tested positive for leptospirosis, of which 50 have been examined only serologically by MAT. Of 855 patients in our study undergoing both PCR and MAT tests, 39 have tested positive for leptospirosis. The most frequent symptom in patients with leptospirosis included fever (91.6%) and headache (69.4%). The correct laboratory diagnosis of leptospirosis depends on biological material being tested before the start of antibiotic treatment, since leptospires are extremely sensitive to antibiotics. Consequently, the PCR results alone may produce a false negative result after 24 hours following treatment with antibiotics.
Apical barrier technique using MTA: report of two cases
Authors: Sharma A , Krishna A , Hans M , Shetty S , Dahiya S
Published: November 2012

Open apices of pulpless immature teeth have always posed a problem as they need to be sealed before they are obturated. In recent years MTA has gained popularity as it provides a single step apical plug and thus helps in apexification. This article reports two cases which were successfully treated with MTA which had open apices. Health Renaissance; September-December 2012; Vol 10 (No.3);239—241 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v10i3.7054
Diagnostic dialemma in diagnosing acute monoarthritis and mono articular rheumatoid arthritis of right elbow in a 24 year old young lady
Authors: Chaudhary P , Shrestha BP , Khanal GP , Rijal R , Karn NK , Maharjan R , Sinha AK
Published: November 2012

Acute monoarthritis can be the initial manifestation of many joint disorders. The first step in diagnosis is to verify that the source of pain is the joint, not the surrounding soft tissues. The most common causes of monoarthritis are crystals (i.e., gout and pseudo gout), trauma, and infection. Here, we present a case of 24-year-old young lady who had presented to the Orthopaedic depatment of B.P.Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal with pain,swelling and restriction of movement of right elbow for 3 days. With all these characteristics and literature reviewed, we thought that this case unique and rare and needs to be reported. Health Renaissance; September-December 2012; Vol 10 (No.3);244-250 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v10i3.7056
Acknowledgement to Peer Reviewers Vol.10(3)
Authors: Board Editorial
Published: November 2012

Health Renaissance; September-December 2012; Vol 10 (No.3);258 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v10i3.7060
Humor as a Way to Re-Image and Re-Imagine Gabon and France in La vie de Pahé and Dipoula
Authors: Bumatay Michelle
Published: November 2012

This article explores the strategies Gabonese cartoonist Pahé deploys to disrupt media-driven images of Africa in both his autobiographical series La vie de Pahé ['The Life of Pahé'] and the fictional series Dipoula, co-created with French cartoonist Sti. It focuses on the role of humor as a way to mock Western hegemony while exposing how sustained colonial logic informs Western representations of Africa. Using humor that thrives on misrecognition, Pahé thwarts readers' expectations and facilitates new possibilities for thinking through the relationship between Europe and Africa, while also drawing attention to the attendant relationship between Franco-Belgian bandes dessinées and other Francophone comics.
Expectation Values and Variance Based on Lp-Norms
Authors: Livadiotis George
Published: November 2012

This analysis introduces a generalization of the basic statistical concepts of expectation values and variance for non-Euclidean metrics induced by Lp-norms. The non-Euclidean Lp means are defined by exploiting the fundamental property of minimizing the Lp deviations that compose the Lp variance. These Lp expectation values embody a generic formal scheme of means characterization. Having the p-norm as a free parameter, both the Lp-normed expectation values and their variance are flexible to analyze new phenomena that cannot be described under the notions of classical statistics based on Euclidean norms. The new statistical approach provides insights into regression theory and Statistical Physics. Several illuminating examples are examined.
Fault Location in Power Electrical Traction Line System
Authors: Zhou Yimin , Xu Guoqing , Chen Yanfeng
Published: November 2012

In this paper, methods of fault location are discussed in electrical traction single-end direct power supply network systems. Based on the distributed parameter model of the system, the position of the short-circuit fault can be located with the aid of the current and voltage value at the measurement end of the electrical traction line. Furthermore, the influence of the transient resistance, the position of the locomotive, locomotive load for fault location are also discussed. MATLAB simulation tool is used for the simulation experiments. Simulation results are proved the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Traceability in Model-Based Testing
Authors: George Mathew , Fischer-Hellmann Klaus-Peter , Knahl Martin , Bleimann Udo , Atkinson Shirley
Published: November 2012

The growing complexities of software and the demand for shorter time to market are two important challenges that face today’s IT industry. These challenges demand the increase of both productivity and quality of software. Model-based testing is a promising technique for meeting these challenges. Traceability modeling is a key issue and challenge in model-based testing. Relationships between the different models will help to navigate from one model to another, and trace back to the respective requirements and the design model when the test fails. In this paper, we present an approach for bridging the gaps between the different models in model-based testing. We propose relation definition markup language (RDML) for defining the relationships between models.
Structure Prediction, Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Docking Studies of D-Specific Dehalogenase from Rhizobium sp. RC1
Authors: Sudi Ismaila Yada , Wong Ee Lin , Joyce-Tan Kwee Hong , Shamsir Mohd Shahir , Jamaluddin Haryati , Huyop Fahrul
Published: November 2012

Currently, there is no three-dimensional structure of D-specific dehalogenase (DehD) in the protein database. We modeled DehD using ab initio technique, performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and docking of D-2-chloropropionate (D-2CP), D-2-bromopropionate (D-2BP), monochloroacetate (MCA), monobromoacetate (MBA), 2,2-dichloropropionate (2,2-DCP), d,l-2,3-dichloropropionate (d,l-2,3-DCP), and 3-chloropropionate (3-CP) into the DehD active site. The sequences of DehD and D-2-haloacid dehalogenase (HadD) from Pseudomonas putida AJ1 have 15% sequence similarity. The model had 80% of the amino acid residues in the most favored region when compared to the crystal structure of DehI from Pseudomonas putida PP3. Docking analysis revealed that Arg107, Arg134 and Tyr135 interacted with D-2CP, and Glu20 activated the water molecule for hydrolytic dehalogenation. Single residue substitutions at 25–30 °C showed that polar residues of DehD were stable when substituted with nonpolar residues and showed a decrease in activity within the same temperature range. The molecular dynamics simulation of DehD and its variants showed that in R134A variant, Arg107 interacted with D-2CP, while in Y135A, Gln221 and Arg231 interacted with D-2CP. It is our emphatic belief that the new model will be useful for the rational design of DehDs with enhanced potentials.
RORα, a Potential Tumor Suppressor and Therapeutic Target of Breast Cancer
Authors: Du Jun , Xu Ren
Published: November 2012

The function of the nuclear receptor (NR) in breast cancer progression has been investigated for decades. The majority of the nuclear receptors have well characterized natural ligands, but a few of them are orphan receptors for which no ligand has been identified. RORα, one member of the retinoid orphan nuclear receptor (ROR) subfamily of orphan receptors, regulates various cellular and pathological activities. RORα is commonly down-regulated and/or hypoactivated in breast cancer compared to normal mammary tissue. Expression of RORα suppresses malignant phenotypes in breast cancer cells, in vitro and in vivo. Activity of RORα can be categorized into the canonical and non-canonical nuclear receptor pathways, which in turn regulate various breast cancer cellular function, including cell proliferation, apoptosis and invasion. This information suggests that RORα is a potent tumor suppressor and a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer.
The Role of Sox Genes in Lung Morphogenesis and Cancer
Authors: Zhu Yongzhao , Li Yong , Jun Wei Jun Wei , Liu Xiaoming
Published: November 2012

The human lung consists of multiple cell types derived from early embryonic compartments. The morphogenesis of the lung, as well as the injury repair of the adult lung, is tightly controlled by a network of signaling pathways with key transcriptional factors. Lung cancer is the third most cancer-related death in the world, which may be developed due to the failure of regulating the signaling pathways. Sox (sex-determining region Y (Sry) box-containing) family transcriptional factors have emerged as potent modulators in embryonic development, stem cells maintenance, tissue homeostasis, and cancerogenesis in multiple processes. Recent studies demonstrated that the members of the Sox gene family played important roles in the development and maintenance of lung and development of lung cancer. In this context, we summarize our current understanding of the role of Sox family transcriptional factors in the morphogenesis of lung, their oncogenic potential in lung cancer, and their potential impact in the diagnosis, prognosis, and targeted therapy of lung cancer.
Brain Metastases from Colorectal Cancer: Microenvironment and Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Zang Yi-Wen , Gu Xiao-Dong , Xiang Jian-Bin , Chen Zong-You
Published: November 2012

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common digestive tract malignancies in the world. Owing to the newer and more effective systemic therapies, the life of colorectal cancer patients can be remarkably prolonged, and the incidence of brain metastases is increasing. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of brain metastasis from colorectal cancer. Here we review the tumor microenvironment and metastasis associated molecules in brain metastases from colorectal cancer. A further understanding of these mechanisms will help us to propose better strategies for colorectal cancer patients with brain metastasis and improve their life quality.
Inhibition of Bladder Tumor Growth by Chitooligosaccharides in an Experimental Carcinogenesis Model
Authors: Fernandes João C. , Sereno José , Garrido Patricia , Parada Belmiro , Cunha Maria F. X. , Reis Flávio , Pintado Manuela E. , Santos-Silva Alice
Published: November 2012

Urinary bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with the highest incidence in industrialized countries. Patients with cancer commonly use unconventional and complementary therapy including nutraceuticals. In this study we evaluated the efficacy of chitooligosaccharides (in orange juice) in rat bladder cancer chemoprevention and as therapeutic agent, on a rat model of urinary bladder carcinogenesis induced with N-butyl-N-(4-hydroxybutyl) nitrosamine. Results indicate that chitooligosaccharides may have a preventive effect on bladder cancer development and a curative effect upon established bladder tumors, dependent on the concentration ingested 500 mg/kg b.w., every three days, showed capacity to inhibit and prevent the proliferation of bladder cancer; however, this was associated with secondary effects such as hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia. The use of lower doses (50 and 250 mg/kg b.w.) showed only therapeutic effects. It is further suggested that this antitumor effect might be due to its expected anti-inflammatory action, as well as by mechanisms not directly dependent of COX-2 inhibition, such as cellular proliferation control and improvement in antioxidant profile.
Characterization and Cytotoxicity Studies of the Rare 21:4 n-7 Acid and Other Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids from the Marine Opisthobranch Scaphander lignarius, Isolated Using Bioassay Guided Fractionation
Authors: Vasskog Terje , Andersen Jeanette , Hansen Espen , Svenson Johan
Published: November 2012

The marine opisthobranch Scaphander lignarius has been analyzed in the systematic search for novel bioactive compounds in Arctic marine organisms using bioassay guided fractionation. A number of highly cytotoxic fractions were shown to contain mainly polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Selected PUFAs were isolated and identified using both liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). It was shown that the opisthobranch contained unusual PUFAs such as several ω3 fatty acids and the ω7 heneicosa-5,8,11,14-tetraenoic acid (21:4 n-7) not isolated before. The organism was shown to be a very rich source of PUFAs and the activity of the isolated compounds against a range of human cancer cell lines (melanoma, colon carcinoma and breast carcinoma) is further reported. The ω7 PUFA was significantly more cytotoxic in comparison with reference ω6 arachidonic and ω3 eicosapentaenoic acid. A noteworthy non-selective cytotoxicity against normal lung fibroblasts was also established. The paper contains isolation protocols in addition to cytotoxicity data of the isolated compounds. The potential of marine mollusks as a source for rare PUFAs is also discussed.
A Comparative Uptake Study of Multiplexed PET Tracers in Mice with Turpentine-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Huang Tingting , Wang Hongliang , Tang Ganghua , Liang Xiang , Nie Dahong , Yi Chang , Wu Kening
Published: November 2012

The potential value of multiplexed positron emission tomography (PET) tracers in mice with turpentine-induced inflammation was evaluated and compared with 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose ([18F]FDG) for glucose metabolism imaging. These PET tracers included [18F]fluoromethylcholine ([18F]FCH) for choline metabolism imaging, (S-[11C]methyl)-D-cysteine ([11C]DMCYS) for amino acid metabolism imaging, [11C]bis(zinc(II)-dipicolylamine) ([11C]DPA-Zn2+) for apoptosis imaging, 2-(4-N-[11C]-methylaminophenyl)-6-hydroxybenzothiazole ([11C]PIB) for β amyloid binding imaging, and [18F]fluoride (18F−) for bone metabolism imaging. In mice with turpentine-induced inflammation mice, the biodistribution of all the tracers mentioned above at 5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 min postinjection was determined. Also, the time-course curves of the tracer uptake ratios for inflammatory thigh muscle (IM) to normal uninflammatory thigh muscle (NM), IM to blood (BL), IM to brain (BR), and IM to liver (LI) were acquired, respectively. Moreover, PET imaging with the tracers within 60 min postinjection on a clinical PET/CT scanner was also conducted. [18F]FDG and 18F− showed relatively higher uptake ratios for IM to NM, IM to BL, IM to BR, and IM to LI than [18F]FCH, [11C]DPA-Zn2+, [11C]DMCYS and [11C]PIB, which were highly consistent with the results delineated in PET images. The results demonstrate that 18F− seems to be a potential PET tracer for inflammation imaging. [18F]FCH and [11C]DMCYS, with lower accumulation in inflammatory tissue than [18F]FDG, are not good PET tracers for inflammation imaging. As a promising inflammatory tracer, the chemical structure of [11C]DPA-Zn2+ needs to be further optimized.
Novel Self-Dyed Wholly Aromatic Polyamide-Hydrazides Covalently Bonded with Azo Groups in Their Main Chains: 1. Structure-Property Relationships
Authors: Mohamed Nadia , Sammour Mohammad , Elshafai Ali
Published: November 2012

Twelve novel intrinsically colored wholly aromatic azopolyamide-hydrazides containing various proportions of para- and meta-phenylene units were successfully synthesized by a low temperature (−10 °C) solution polycondensation reaction of either 4-amino-3-hydroxybenzhydrazide (4A3HBH) or 3-amino-4-hydroxybenzhydrazide (3A4HBH) with an equimolar amount of either 4,4'-azodibenzoyl chloride (4,4'ADBC), 3,3'-azodibenzoyl chloride (3,3'ADBC), or mixtures of various molar ratios of 4,4'ADBC and 3,3'ADBC in anhydrous N,N-dimethyl acetamide (DMAc) containing 3% (wt/v) LiCl as a solvent. The structures of the polymers were proven by elemental analysis, FTIR, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopy. The polymers’ properties were strongly affected by their various structures. The intrinsic viscosities of the polymers were ranged from 0.7 to 4.75 dL g−1 and increased with the para-phenylene units content. The polymers are partially soluble in DMAc, dimethyl formamide (DMF) and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). Their solubility increases with the introduction of meta-phenylene moieties into the polymer chains. The polymers exhibit a great affinity for water sorption. Their hydrophilicity increases as a function of the content of meta-phenylene rings incorporated into the polymer. Mechanical properties of the polymer films are improved markedly by substitution of para-phenylene units for meta-phenylene units. The completely para-oriented type polymer has the best thermal and thermo-oxidative stability relative to those of the other polymers.
Assessment of Global Carbon Dioxide Concentration Using MODIS and GOSAT Data
Authors: Guo Meng , Wang Xiufeng , Li Jing , Yi Kunpeng , Zhong Guosheng , Tani Hiroshi
Published: November 2012

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the most important greenhouse gas (GHG) in the atmosphere and is the greatest contributor to global warming. CO2 concentration data are usually obtained from ground observation stations or from a small number of satellites. Because of the limited number of observations and the short time series of satellite data, it is difficult to monitor CO2 concentrations on regional or global scales for a long time. The use of the remote sensing data such as the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) or Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data can overcome these problems, particularly in areas with low densities of CO2 concentration watch stations. A model based on temperature (MOD11C3), vegetation cover (MOD13C2 and MOD15A2) and productivity (MOD17A2) of MODIS (which we have named the TVP model) was developed in the current study to assess CO2 concentrations on a global scale. We assumed that CO2 concentration from the Thermal And Near infrared Sensor for carbon Observation (TANSO) aboard the Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) are the true values and we used these values to check the TVP model accuracy. The results indicate that the accuracy of the TVP model is different in different continents: the greatest Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R2) was 0.75 in Eurasia (RMSE = 1.16) and South America (RMSE = 1.17); the lowest R2 was 0.57 in Australia (RMSE = 0.73). Compared with the TANSO-observed CO2 concentration (XCO2), we found that the accuracy throughout the World is between −2.56~3.14 ppm. Potential sources of TVP model uncertainties were also analyzed and identified.
Host Cell Factors in Filovirus Entry: Novel Players, New Insights
Authors: Hofmann-Winkler Heike , Kaup Franziska , Pöhlmann Stefan
Published: November 2012

Filoviruses cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans with high case-fatality rates. The cellular factors exploited by filoviruses for their spread constitute potential targets for intervention, but are incompletely defined. The viral glycoprotein (GP) mediates filovirus entry into host cells. Recent studies revealed important insights into the host cell molecules engaged by GP for cellular entry. The binding of GP to cellular lectins was found to concentrate virions onto susceptible cells and might contribute to the early and sustained infection of macrophages and dendritic cells, important viral targets. Tyrosine kinase receptors were shown to promote macropinocytic uptake of filoviruses into a subset of susceptible cells without binding to GP, while interactions between GP and human T cell Ig mucin 1 (TIM-1) might contribute to filovirus infection of mucosal epithelial cells. Moreover, GP engagement of the cholesterol transporter Niemann-Pick C1 was demonstrated to be essential for GP-mediated fusion of the viral envelope with a host cell membrane. Finally, mutagenic and structural analyses defined GP domains which interact with these host cell factors. Here, we will review the recent progress in elucidating the molecular interactions underlying filovirus entry and discuss their implications for our understanding of the viral cell tropism.
Examining a Supply-Side Predictive Model in Tourism using Partial Least Squares Path Modeling: An Empirical Analysis at the Country Aggregate Level
Authors: Assaker Guy , Hallak Rob
Published: November 2012

This study examines the predictive relationships between tourism supply factors and tourism demand. Based on data from 154 countries, partial least squares path modeling (PLSPM) was used to test a predictive model that examines causal relationships among the environment, economy, infrastructure,
and tourism demand at the aggregate country level. The results suggest that the latent economy variable (operationalized in this study as a formative, rather than a reflective, construct) has a positive, indirect effect on tourism demand. This relationship is mediated by the infrastructure
and the environment, which in turn have a positive, direct effect on tourism demand, respectively. Results from this study support the operationlization of the "economy" construct as a formative construct where consumer price index (CPI), purchasing power parity (PPP), foreign direct investment
(FDI), trade (TRA), and industry value added (IVA) all "form" the latent economy variable. Tourism demand, however, is a "reflective" latent construct represented by international tourist arrivals (TA) and international tourist receipts (TEXP). Thus, this predictive model presents a number
of theoretical and practical contributions. First, this research expands existing theories on tourism demand by presenting a more accurate predictive model that examines the casual relationships among the economy, infrastructure, environment, and tourism. Second, understanding these complex
relationships provides destination managers with an analytical framework on how certain factors can strengthen tourism demand for the destination.
To What Extent Do Wineries Study Their Consumers and Visitors? Implications for Wine Tourism Development
Authors: Alonso Abel Duarte , Bressan Alessandro , O'Shea Michelle , Krajsic Vlad
Published: November 2012

In their quest for long-term sustainability and financial success, winery entrepreneurs increasingly perceive wine tourism and tourism-related enterprises as important facets of their business strategy. However, to benefit from wine tourism activities, winery operators will need to
develop new skills and business capabilities. In this context, learning from and understanding consumers and visitors' preferences and expectations is of paramount importance to wineries' long-term sustainability and, importantly, their financial success. This study examines the extent to
which winery owners and managers "study" their visitors, gathering data from 451 Italian, Spanish, and New World small and medium wineries. The majority of respondents indicate studying visitors to some extent; however, one third do not actively engage in activities that enable them to learn
about visitor preferences and experiences, while over 40% would like to learn more about them. In addition, while respondents generally perceive studying visitors as beneficial, others are either skeptical or consider their current efforts sufficient. At a time when consumers have numerous
leisure choices available to them, wineries and wine labels are operating in a highly competitive and increasingly sophisticated environment, these findings have significant implications for wine tourism specifically, as well as the hospitality and wine sectors generally.
Casino Development and Visitor Satisfaction: A Case of Korea
Authors: Byun Woo-Hee , Koo Bon-Ki , Lee Timothy Jeonglyeol
Published: November 2012

As the only casino in the country to accept domestic patronage, Korea's Kangwon Land Casino was first introduced to revitalize a local economy no longer sustained by coal mining. In investigating this initiative, this study aims to identify the factors that attract domestic visitors
to the casino, via a survey of visitors to the site and an analysis of visitor responses. The study firstly outlines and explains why a casino development was chosen to revitalize the local economy, and how areas formally classified for mining were rejuvenated and newly designated districts
of tourism and tourism promotion. The investigation then presents the core findings of the study, focusing on visitor satisfaction to the site, along with areas of the site requiring further improvement based on the findings. In sum, the study assists planners to more successfully develop
casinos in coordination with local residents, enhancing the capacity of casino developments to revitalize local areas in the longer term. The study offers valuable suggestions for casino development, above all in its initial stages and especially within Asian contexts.
Therapeutic Levels of Lopinavir in Late Pregnancy and Abacavir Passage into Breast Milk in the Mma Bana Study, Botswana
Authors: Shapiro Roger L , Rossi Steven , Ogwu Anthony , Moss Mary , Leidner Jean , Moffat Claire , Lockman Shahin , Moyo Sikhulile , Makhema Joseph , Essex Max , Capparelli Edmund
Published: November 2012

Background

Pharmacokinetic data for lopinavir in late pregnancy and in breastfeeding are limited, and no data for abacavir in breast milk are available.

Methods

Women in the Mma Bana Study initiated HAART from 18 to 34 weeks of gestation. We determined trough plasma and whole breast milk concentrations of lopinavir (LPV), abacavir (ABC), nevirapine (NVP), lamivudine (3TC) and zidovudine (ZDV) among separate subsets of pregnant and breastfeeding women, and in plasma of exposed infants. Lopinavir was measured 1 month after starting HAART or 1 month postpartum, and other drugs were measured 1 month postpartum.

Results

Sampling occurred a median of 14 h (range 11–17) from last maternal drug ingestion. Although 50% higher median LPV levels were seen in postpartum than antepartum plasma (8.29 μg/ml versus 5.51 μg/ml; P=0.02), antepartum levels with standard LPV dosing were therapeutic for all women (>1.0 μg/ml). Very low LPV levels (<0.25 μg/ml) were detected in breast milk. Median ABC levels in breast milk were 85% of those in plasma (0.057 μg/ml versus 0.067 μg/ml). Breast milk concentrations of NVP and 3TC were 27% and 74% of plasma levels, respectively. At these trough maternal time points, only NVP was detectable in potentially inhibitory levels in breastfeeding infants, and most infants had non-detectable levels of LPV, ABC, ZDV and 3TC via maternal breast milk.

Conclusions

Standard LPV dosing achieved therapeutic levels in pregnancy and no appreciable concentrations in breast milk. ABC is detectable in breast milk at similar concentrations to plasma, but does not result in appreciable infant exposure.
La performance en question
Authors: Bichüe Didier
Published: November 2012

Résumé La performance, « cheval de bataille » de nos dirigeants appliqué au secteur médico-social par le biais de l’agence nationale d’appui à la performance ( anap ), est-elle à redouter ou à adopter ? Quelles sont les différentes représentations de la performance selon la place que nous occupons dans le système de l’aide aux personnes ? Quels sont les enjeux économiques et culturels qui sous-tendent ces nouveaux modes d’organisation dans lesquels on veut nous entraîner ?
Performance et reprise en main de l'État : les raisons d'une obsession comptable
Authors: Loubat Jean-René
Published: November 2012

Résumé L’arrivée de ce nouveau « gros mot » dans l’univers de l’action sociale et médico-sociale – c’est-à-dire externe à sa culture historique – brise un tabou fondamental : celui de l’utilité même de ses dispositifs, de leurs véritables objectifs et de leur efficacité. Performance et efficience s’inscrivent dans une logique historique de reprise en main par l’État de la destinée de tels secteurs, dans une logique vitale de maîtrise des dépenses publiques imposée par un contexte de déclin démographique et économique durable de l’Europe.
La professionnalisation en travail social au risque de la performance
Authors: Artois Pierre
Published: November 2012

Résumé Le travail social est soumis à de nombreuses tensions, la recherche de performance en est devenue un aspect marquant. Cette prégnance de la culture du résultat n’est pas sans effet sur le sens que donnent les professionnels à leur travail. enfermés dans une logique d’efficacité, de mesure quantitative, ces professionnels en oublient la qualité des prestations qui permet de penser en termes de plus-value sociale plutôt qu’en termes de coûts sociaux.
L'interaction d'aide ne relève pas de la performance
Authors: Dubreuil Bertrand
Published: November 2012

Résumé Les choix des pouvoirs publics dans la période récente, les modalités injonctives ou/et irréalistes qu’ils adoptent me semblent actuellement suffisamment inquiétants pour justifier un rappel des principes sur lesquels repose l’action sociale. sans tomber dans l’amalgame ou le procès d’intention, l’orientation est trop homogène pour qu’on ne la suppose pas obéir à un dessein d’ensemble qui, malheureusement, n’est ni porteur d’humanité ni favorable à la cohésion sociale. La performance est un terme aujourd’hui suffisamment prégnant dans le discours relatif à l’action sociale pour qu’on rappelle sa dimension fondamentalement politique.
La performance de se déplacer quand on ne voit pas
Authors: Carrer Cendrine
Published: November 2012

Résumé Mon métier d’instructrice de locomotion m’amène à rencontrer des personnes qui, de par leur situation de cécité, ont besoin d’acquérir des méthodes leur permettant de retrouver autonomie et sécurité dans leurs déplacements. elles ont perdu la vue précocement ou tardivement au cours de leur vie, et n’ont pas d’autre choix que de modifier leur fonctionnement et développer leurs sens compensatoires afin de retrouver des repères. elles doivent se réadapter. Toute relative soit-elle, cette autonomie retrouvée est une composante importante de la qualité de vie de la personne aveugle.
Trauma crânien et transdisciplinarité
Authors: Simsolo Laura , Caire Anne-Marie , Hougron Adeline
Published: November 2012

Résumé Cet article interroge l’accompagnement des blessés crânio-cérébraux avec des troubles cognitifs majeurs dans une dimension de chronicité, ainsi que les différentes fonctions des professionnels engagés dans ce travail, proposant en particulier une approche transdisciplinaire qui vise à mettre les enjeux existentiels au centre de la prise en charge, quelles que soient les spécialités concernées. Plus globalement, il questionne l’accompagnement médico-social en général, ses fondements éthiques dans son rapport à l’impossible, et les bases d’une réelle inventivité clinique.
Performance clinique ou performance gestionnaire ?
Authors: Lamoureux Valérie
Published: November 2012

Résumé Un séjour en centre de réadaptation fonctionnelle basse vision permet au patient d’acquérir des techniques et des stratégies pour recouvrer son autonomie. La codification des actes pour une maîtrise des dépenses influe sur la prise en charge globale de la personne. Il existe bien, du point de vue des praticiens en travail social, un antagonisme vécu entre objectif de performance gestionnaire et objectif qualitatif clinique.
Recherche et « performance » en travail social
Authors: Leplay Éliane
Published: November 2012

Résumé La performance peut être définie comme le constat de réussite d’une action. Dans le champ du travail social, la construction des objectifs ne s’effectue pas de la même façon que dans une activité de production ; il s’agit ici d’une activité de coproduction du service avec les bénéficiaires du service. La dimension clinique de cette activité impose la prise en compte du sujet individuel et/ou collectif, dans un processus qui s’inscrit dans le temps. La recherche en travail social peut éclairer ces questions en étudiant les activités « réelles » de travailleurs sociaux, dans leur environnement. L’intelligibilité de ces pratiques dans toute leur complexité peut constituer une base utile, voire nécessaire à la construction de modes d’évaluation pertinents.
Performance et impératifs gestionnaires : quels enjeux pour la condition professionnelle des travailleurs sociaux ?
Authors: Saint-Martin Corinne
Published: November 2012

Résumé Les impératifs gestionnaires soumettent les travailleurs sociaux à une transformation de leur cadre de travail, modifient leurs ressources professionnelles. Nous appuyant sur une enquête sociologique menée après la catastrophe industrielle toulousaine de 2001, nous montrons comment le travail social s’organise, les stratégies mises en place pour maintenir l’activité et son sens. Il apparaît qu’un important « travail invisible » – tant sur l’organisation que relationnel – opère ; il a cependant permis de générer des solutions créatives. aujourd’hui, c’est ce travail qui interroge. Que deviennent ces savoir-faire professionnels face aux « épreuves » de la performance ?
Les entretiens familiaux
Authors: Chimisanas Gérard
Published: November 2012

Résumé L’enfant naît dans et d’une famille. Dans un cadre socio-psycho-éducatif et de soin, en centre médico-psychologique, parents et enfants sont reçus séparément et ensemble. L’entretien familial est un dispositif d’élaboration de la parentalité, de signifiance des liens, des places et d’individuation. Sinoué est maintenu au plus près de sa mère, Angèle prise dans la génération précédente maternelle, Niels en mal d’identification masculine acceptable et Bilal divisé pour occuper de multiples places. Tous arrêtés au seuil de leur psyché et de leur famille.
Des éthiques de la responsabilité pour penser l'évaluation en éducation et en formation
Authors: Beauvais Martine
Published: November 2012

Résumé Du champ de la formation à celui de la santé en passant par le travail social, l’évaluation envahit toutes les sphères de notre quotidien. Que nous la subissions en tant que sujet-objet, ou que nous la conduisions en tant qu’auteur-acteur, l’évaluation engage notre responsabilité et questionne notre rapport à l’Autre, au monde et à nous-mêmes. Cet article pose les jalons d’une réflexion éthique de la responsabilité en éducation et en formation et suggère des clés de lecture « bricolées » à partir de principes philosophiques plutôt maximalistes.
Competitive Effects of Purchase-Based Targeted Advertising
Authors: Zhang Jianqiang , Zhong Weijun , Mei Shue
Published: November 2012

This paper develops a two-period sales model to investigate the competitive effects of purchase-based targeted advertising. In the model, two competing firms gain consumer information during the first period sales, which allows them to target advertising based on consumer purchase history. Advertising is assumed to be persuasive in terms of consumer valuation enhancing and product differentiation increasing. The authors find that the firm’s ability to target can damage industry profits, consumer surplus, and even social welfare. The conditions under which targeted advertising is positive or negative are derived, showing that price competition is softened in the second period but intensified in the first. It is suggested that firms under competitive environments cautiously sponsor targeted advertising with appropriate contents.
Comparative Analysis of Ontology Ranking Algorithms
Authors: Dhingra Vandana , Bhatia Komal
Published: November 2012

Ontologies are the backbone of knowledge representation on Semantic web. Challenges involved in building ontologies are in terms of time, efforts, skill, and domain specific knowledge. In order to minimize these challenges, one of the major advantages of ontologies is its potential of “reuse,” currently supported by various search engines like Swoogle, Ontokhoj. As the number of ontologies that such search engines like Swoogle, OntoKhoj Falcon can find increases, so will the need increase for a proper ranking method to order the returned lists of ontologies in terms of their relevancy to the query which can save a lot of time and effort. This paper deals with analysis of various ontology ranking algorithms. Based on the analysis of different ontology ranking algorithms, a comparative study is done to find out their relative strengths and limitations based on various parameters which provide a significant research direction in ranking of ontologies in semantic web.
Evaluating Mobile Applications
Authors: Flood Derek , Harrison Rachel , Iacob Claudia , Duce David
Published: November 2012

The power of mobile devices has increased dramatically in the last few years. These devices are becoming more sophisticated and allow users to accomplish a wide variety of tasks while on the move. The ease with which mobile apps can be created and distributed has resulted in a number of usability issues becoming more prevalent. This paper describes the range of usability issues encountered at all stages of the mobile app life cycle, from when users begin to search for an app to when they finally remove the app from their device. Using these results the authors developed a number of guidelines for both app developers and app platform developers that will improve the overall usability of mobile apps.
SETER
Authors: Saidane Ayda , Guelfi Nicolas
Published: November 2012

The quality of software systems strongly depends on their architecture. For this reason, taking into account security requirements at the architecture level is crucial for the success of secure software development. Today, systems are permanently evolving due to customer needs, technology evolution or maintenance constraints. Thus, a resilient secure system is expected to evolve towards more satisfaction of its security requirements (Guelfi 2011). In particular, such evolution process should identify and eliminate faults and vulnerabilities during the development process or runtime. This study focuses on the design phases and aims to propose a resilient software engineering process guaranteeing the development of secure systems that satisfy their critical requirements. During the development process, the system is expected to evolve until reaching satisfactory compliance against its requirements. The satisfaction computation is based on the quantification of failures and degradations. In this paper, the authors propose a novel architecture model-based security testing approach for identifying faults and vulnerabilities. The originality of the proposal resides in the usage of the architecture model for security testing and in coupling security requirements with threat model for generating both security functional test cases and malicious test cases. The assessment of the security requirements’ satisfaction and the overall system resilience is based on the test traces analysis. Throughout this study, a client-server system is used as a running example for illustrating the approach.