bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Boundaries of the Criminal Courtroom Workgroup
Authors: Young Richard
Published: September 2013

The concept of the courtroom workgroup has become a standard way of explaining patterns of decisions produced by, and dynamics within, criminal trial courts in common law jurisdictions. Many such explanations are, however, based on a superficial use of the concept that overlooks its analytical richness. The present contribution aims to address this by suggesting ways in which it might be used more fruitfully. In particular, it is argued that linking the concept to social theory will bring into focus the kind of methodological strategies necessary to understand what matters to members of courtroom workgroups, and how these commitments are linked to actual practice. The arguments are illustrated by reference to some original data from a study of legal aid decision-making in the magistrates' courts of Northern Ireland. Attention is focused on how judges and lawyers patrolled, explored and challenged the boundaries of workgroup norms and practices. Such boundary-work is shown to provide insights into the interdependent relationships that characterize the lower criminal court workgroup.
An Empirical Analysis of Appeals by Class Members in Australia's Federal Class Actions
Authors: Morabito Vince
Published: September 2013

Australia was one of the first countries to emulate the United States by introducing class actions. But, unlike their American federal counterparts, the drafters of the three class action regimes that are in operation in Australia chose to deal expressly with and regulate the ability of class members (who are bound by, but not formal parties to, the class action litigation) to file an appeal, where the class representative is unwilling or unable to take such a step, from judicial orders that are adverse to their interests. Despite the fact that the ability to file an appeal represents one of the most significant powers available to Australian class members to ensure that their interests are protected in the litigation (without the involvement of the class representatives), these appeal mechanisms have not been the subject of critical analysis by Australian scholars. The aim of this paper is to address this lacuna in the legal literature by reviewing the aims, essential features and operation of the provision that governs the ability of class members to file appeals in Australia's longest running class action regime, which has been regulating class actions in the Federal Court of Australia since March 1992. For this purpose, the findings that have emerged from the first-ever empirical study of this regime, which the author recently conducted, are employed. References are also made to the corresponding provisions found in the two other Australian class action regimes, which operate in the Supreme Courts of Victoria and New South Wales, and to the American and Canadian experience with appeals by class members.
Marketing in Computer-Mediated Environments: Research Synthesis and New Directions
Authors: Yadav Manjit S. , Pavlou Paul A.
Published: September 2013

Although an extensive body of research has emerged on marketing in computer-mediated environments, the literature remains fragmented. As a result, insights and findings have accumulated without an overarching framework to provide structure and guidance to the rapidly increasing research stream, which is detrimental to long-term knowledge development in this area. To address this issue, the authors organize and synthesize findings from the literature using a framework structured around four key interactions in computer-mediated environments: consumer–firm interactions, firm–consumer interactions, consumer–consumer interactions, and firm–firm interactions. The proposed framework serves a valuable organizational function and helps identify a broad spectrum of gaps in the literature to advance the next generation of knowledge development.
Computer-based system to capture, collect, process and analyze data in psychomotor tests
Authors: Faron Paweł , Lasoń Wojciech , Walecki Piotr , Kunc Marek , Gorzelańczyk Edward Jacek
Published: September 2013

The article explains the principles and goals in creating a computer-based system for the measurement of psychomotor functioning, its functionality, and user interface. To illustrate the capabilities of the system, the results of analysis of the selected psychomotor tests performed in different groups of patients are presented. The usefulness of the presented tool in the quantitative study of psychomotor functioning is assessed.
The homology of simplicial complements and the cohomology of polyhedral products
Authors: Wang Xiangjun , Zheng Qibing
Published: September 2013

In this paper, we define a simplicial complement

ℙ
=
{

σ
1

,

σ
2

,
...
,

σ
s

}

${\mathbb {P}=\lbrace \sigma _1, \sigma _2,\ldots , \sigma _s\rbrace }$

to be a sequence
of subsets of

[
m
]

${[m]}$

and prove that the simplicial complement ℙ corresponds to
an unique simplicial complex

K
ℙ

${K_\mathbb {P}}$

with vertices in [m]. Then, we define
the homology algebra of a simplicial complement

H

i
,
σ

(

Λ

*
,
*

[
ℙ
]

,
d
)

${H_{i,\sigma }(\Lambda ^{*,*}[\mathbb {P}], d)}$

over a principal ideal domain
𝐤 and prove that

H

*
,
*

(
Λ

[
ℙ
]

,
d
)

${H_{*,*}(\Lambda [\mathbb {P}], d)}$

is isomorphic to
the Tor-algebra of the corresponding face ring

𝐤
(

K
ℙ

)

${\mathbf {k}(K_\mathbb {P})}$

by the Taylor resolution.
This gives an algorithm for the cohomology algebraic structure of the moment-angle complex
by the isomorphism

H
*

(

𝒵

K
ℙ

,
𝐤
)

≅

Tor

*
,
*

𝐤
[
𝐱
]

(
𝐤

(

K
ℙ

)

,
𝐤
)

${H^*(\mathcal {Z}_{K_\mathbb {P}}, \mathbf {k}) \cong {\rm Tor}_{*,*}^{\mathbf {k}[\mathbf {x}]}(\mathbf {k}(K_\mathbb {P}), \mathbf {k})}$

. As applications of the simplicial complement, we
also give methods to compute the cohomology of the moment-angle complex
corresponding to a
link and star

link

K
ℙ

σ

${\operatorname{link}_{K_\mathbb {P}}\sigma }$

,

star

K
ℙ

σ

${\operatorname{star}_{K_\mathbb {P}}\sigma }$

and the cohomology modules of the polyhedral
products as well.
Addison's disease: a survey on 633 patients in Padova
Authors: Betterle Corrado , Scarpa Riccardo , Garelli Silvia , Morlin Luca , Lazzarotto Francesca , Presotto Fabio , Coco Graziella , Masiero Stefano , Parolo Anna , Albergoni Maria Paola , Favero Roberta , Barollo Susi , Salvà Monica , Basso Daniela , Chen Shu , Rees Smith Bernard , Furmaniak Jadwiga , Mantero Franco
Published: September 2013

Objective

Addison's disease (AD) is a rare endocrine condition.

Design

We aimed to evaluate clinical, immunologic, adrenal imaging, and genetic features in 633 Italian patients with AD followed up since 1967.

Methods

Adrenal cortex autoantibodies, presence of other autoimmune and nonautoimmune diseases, nonadrenal autoantibodies, adrenal imaging, and genetic profile for HLA-DRB1 and AIRE were analyzed.

Results

A total of 492 (77.7%) patients were found to be affected by autoimmune AD (A-AD), 57 (9%) tuberculous AD, 29 (4.6%) genetic-associated AD, 10 (1.6%) adrenal cancer, six (0.94%) post-surgical AD, four (0.6%) vascular disorder-related AD, three (0.5%) post-infectious AD, and 32 (5.1%) were defined as idiopathic. Adrenal cortex antibodies were detected in the vast majority (88–100%) of patients with recent onset A-AD, but in none of those with nonautoimmune AD. Adrenal imaging revealed normal/atrophic glands in all A-AD patients: 88% of patients with A-AD had other clinical or subclinical autoimmune diseases or were positive for nonadrenal autoantibodies.

Based on the coexistence of other autoimmune disorders, 65.6% of patients with A-AD were found to have type 2 autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome (APS2), 14.4% have APS1, and 8.5% have APS4. Class II HLA alleles DRB1*03 and DRB1*04 were increased, and DRB1*01, DRB1*07, DRB1*013 were reduced in APS2 patients when compared with controls. Of the patients with APS1, 96% were revealed to have AIRE gene mutations.

Conclusions

A-AD is the most prevalent form of adrenal insufficiency in Italy, and ∼90% of the patients are adrenal autoantibody-positive at the onset. Assessment of patients with A-AD for the presence of other autoimmune diseases should be helpful in monitoring and diagnosing APS types 1, 2, or 4 and improving patients' care.
Concurrent overexpression of RET/PTC1 and TTF1 confers tumorigenicity to thyrocytes
Authors: Endo Toyoshi , Kobayashi Tetsuro
Published: September 2013

A variant located on 14q13.3 nearest to thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF1) predisposes individuals to thyroid cancer, but whether this variant is related to theRET/PTCrearrangement associated with human papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) is unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of RET/PTC1 on the expression of thyroid-specific genes in thyrocytes and their relationship with malignant transformation of the thyrocytes. In the absence or presence of TSH, an extracellular signal-regulated kinase was phosphorylated in FRTL5 cells that stably expressed RET/PTC1, and these cells grew independently of TSH. FRTL (RET/PTC1) cells produced 566% more thyroglobulin mRNA and 474% more Na+/I− symporter mRNA than did the control FRTL (pcDNA) cells. FRTL (RET/PTC1) cells expressed 468% moreTtf1mRNA than did FRTL (pcDNA) cells, but these two cell types did not differ significantly with respect toPax8orTtf2mRNA levels. When FRTL (RET/PTC1) cells and FRTL (pcDNA), cells were injected into each of nine nude mice, each mouse developed a single tumor at the site of FRTL (RET/PTC1) cell injection; in contrast, tumor formation never occurred at sites of FRTL (cDNA) cells injection. Tumors resulting from FRTL (RET/PTC1) cells retained125I-uptake activity; moreover, the cells invaded into surrounding skeletal muscle. When overexpression ofTtf1in FRTL (RET/PTC1) cells was silenced, the cells completely lost their tumorigenic potential. ExogenousTTF1cDNA enhanced the tumorigenicity of BHP18-21v cells, human PTC cells that express RET/PTC1, in nude mice. These results indicated that concurrent overexpression of RET/PTC1 and TTF1 confers tumorigenicity to FRTL5 and BHP18-21v cells in nude mice.
Glanidium botocudo, a new species from the rio Doce and rio Mucuri, Minas Gerais, Brazil (Siluriformes: Auchenipteridae) with comments on taxonomic position of Glanidium bockmanni Sarmento-Soares & Buckup
Authors: Sarmento-Soares Luisa Maria , Martins-Pinheiro Ronaldo Fernando
Published: September 2013

Glanidium botocudo, new species, is described from the tributaries to the upper rio Doce and Mucuri, eastern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. It represents the northernmost record of a centromochlin catfish from the coastal rivers of the Northeastern Atlantic Forest. Glanidium botocudo is readily distinguished from its congeners, except Glanidium albescens, by the whitish grey body coloration with evenly spaced small dark brown dots. The new species has a long sharpened ventral process on the urohyal, an uncommon condition among congeners, and the lowest vertebral count among the large-sized Glanidium, 36-37. It differs from Glanidium albescens by proportional measurements and higher number of ribs. Glanidium botocudo and Glanidium albescens are probably sister species, exhibiting similar morphological features and a complimentary distribution pattern, associated to an allopatric distribution pattern. Glanidium bockmanni is transferred to the genus Centromochlus
Functional trophic composition of the ichthyofauna of forest streams in eastern Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Brejao Gabriel Lourenco , Gerhard Pedro , Zuanon Jansen
Published: September 2013

This study aimed to describe the functional organization of the ichthyofauna of forest streams from northeastern Pará State, Brazil, based on behavioral observation of species' feeding tactics. Seven streams were sampled between June and November, 2010, during snorkeling sessions, totaling 91h 51min of visual censuses at day, dusk, and night periods. Seventy three species distributed in six orders, 26 families and 63 genera were observed, with dominance of Characiformes, followed by Siluriformes. From information gathered by ad libitum observations, each species was included in one of 18 functional trophic groups (FTGs), according to two main characteristics: (1) its most frequently observed feeding tactic; and (2) its spatial distribution in the stream environment, considering their horizontal (margins or main channel) and vertical (water column) dimensions. The most frequent FTGs observed were Nocturnal invertebrate pickers (9 species), Diurnal channel drift feeders (8 spp.), Diurnal surface pickers (7 spp.), and Ambush and stalking predators (6 spp.). The FTGs herein defined enable a comparative analysis of the structure and composition of ichthyofauna in different basins and environmental conditions, which presents an alternative approach to the use of taxonomic structure in ecological studies. The ichthyofauna classification based in FTGs proposed in this study is compared to three other classifications, proposed by Sazima (1986), Sabino & Zuanon (1998) and Casatti et al. (2001).
Development of habitat suitability criteria for Neotropical stream fishes and an assessment of their transferability to streams with different conservation status
Authors: Teresa Fabrício Barreto , Casatti Lilian
Published: September 2013

We assessed the preference of 10 fish species for depth and velocity conditions in forested streams from southeastern Brazil using habitat suitability criteria (HSC curves). We also tested whether preference patterns observed in forested streams can be transferred to deforested streams. We used data from fish sampled in 62 five-meter sites in three forested streams to construct preference curves. Astyanax altiparanae, A. fasciatus, Knodus moenkhausii, and Piabina argentea showed a preference for deep slow habitats, whereas Aspidoras fuscoguttatus, Characidium zebra, Cetopsorhamdia iheringi, Pseudopimelodus pulcher, and Hypostomus nigromaculatus showed an opposite pattern: preference for shallow fast habitats. Hypostomus ancistroides showed a multimodal pattern of preference for depth and velocity. To evaluate whether patterns observed in forested streams may be transferred to deforested streams, we sampled 64 five-meters sites in three deforested streams using the same methodology. The preference for velocity was more consistent than for depth, as success in the transferability criterion was 86% and 29% of species, respectively. This indicates that velocity is a good predictor of species abundance in streams, regardless of their condition
Contribuições para o aprimoramento da Provinha Brasil enquanto instrumento diagnóstico do nível de alfabetização e letramento nas séries iniciais
Authors: Freitag Raquel Meister Ko ,   Universidade Federal de Sergipe, Brazil, Almeida Ayane Nazarela Santos , Rosário Mônica Maria Soares ,   Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Brazil,   Rede Municipal de Educação de Aracaju, Brazil
Published: September 2013

A Provinha Brasil é uma avaliação diagnóstica do nível de habilidades de alfabetização e letramento que, assim como outros instrumentos avaliativos, apresenta limitações e incompletudes que podem prejudicar a abrangência dos resultados encontrados. No intuito de colaborar para o aprimoramento desse instrumento, apresentamos a análise de três aspectos relacionados à concepção e elaboração da Provinha Brasil: a avaliação da competência narrativa dos alfabetizandos, o tratamento da variação linguística e a formação do professor alfabetizador.
Classes multisseriadas no Acre
Authors: Teruya Teresa Kazuko ,   Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Brazil, Walker Maristela Rosso , Nicácio Marcondes de Lima , Pinheiro Maria Joana Manaitá ,   Universidade Federal do Acre, Brazil,   Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Acre, Brazil,   Rede Municipal de Ensino do Cruzeiro do Sul, Brazil
Published: September 2013

Analisa o ensino multisseriado de uma escola localizada na zona rural de Cruzeiro do Sul, no Estado do Acre, onde as aulas do 1º ao 5º ano são ofertadas numa mesma sala. Realizamos entrevistas, observações in loco e análise documental para verificar se a disposição da sala de aula, em fila por série, prejudica a aprendizagem e para identificar as dificuldades dos alunos no ensino multisseriado. Refletimos sobre a educação rural, o ensino multisseriado e a mediação docente para trabalhar conceitos e conteúdos diversos desde a alfabetização até o 5º ano do ensino fundamental, na perspectiva histórica e cultural. Concluímos que existem possibilidades de aprendizagem nos modelos multisseriados de ensino, mas há lacunas, apesar de o professor se desdobrar para ensinar e produzir conhecimento nas salas multisseriadas.
Cervical Vertebral Maturation of Female Children with Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Sun Ling , Li Wei Ran
Published: September 2013

Objective

To evaluate the skeletal maturation of girls with orofacial clefts using the cervical vertebral maturation method.

Design

Case-control study.

Setting

The School of Stomatology, Peking University.

Patients

A total of 173 girls with cleft lip and/or palate from 8 to 16 years old were compared with 1038 age-matched girls without clefts.

Results

In the 8- to 9-year-olds, most of the girls from both groups were in cervical stage 1. In the 14- to 15-year-olds and 15- to 16-year-olds, almost all the girls from both groups were in cervical stages 5 and 6, and most of the 15- to 16-year-old girls were in cervical stage 6. Differences existed in each year for 9- to 14-year-olds, which was confirmed by statistical analysis. After ordinal logistical regression of data from girls 9 to 14 years of age, girls of the same age in the non–cleft lip and/or palate group were associated with 1.559 times the odds of having achieved higher cervical stages than those in the cleft lip and/or palate group. Most girls without cleft lip and/or palate were in cervical stages 3 and 4 in the 11- to 12-year-olds; whereas, it was not so obvious in the girls with cleft lip and/or palate. By the age of 12, girls with cleft lip and/or palate had 2.667 times the risk of delayed cervical stage 3, and the 95% confidence interval for the odds ratio was 1.013 to 7.019.

Conclusions

Girls with cleft lip and/or palate are at a higher risk of delayed pubertal growth.
Maxillary Protraction in Patients with Cleft Lip and Palate in Mixed Dentition: Cephalometric Evaluation after Completion of Growth
Authors: Susami Takafumi , Okayasu Mari , Inokuchi Takato , Ohkubo Kazumi , Uchino Natsuko , Uwatoko Kiwako , Takahashi-Ichikawa Naoko , Nagahama Kouhei , Takato Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2013

Objective

To clarify the short- and long-term effects of maxillary protraction (MP) in mixed dentition in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP).

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

University of Tokyo Hospital.

Patients and Intervention

Eleven Japanese patients with UCLP in mixed dentition were treated with MP and followed up until the completion of growth. Multibracket treatment had been performed after MP treatment in all patients.

Main Outcome Measure

Lateral cephalograms taken before and after MP and after completion of growth were used. Posterior and anterior vertical reference lines (PV, AV) were used to measure the horizontal movements of point A, pogonion, and maxillary first molar (U6). SNA, SNB, ANB, maxillary and mandibular length, mandibular plane angle, Wits value, upper incisor inclination, overjet, and overbite were also measured.

Results

Large variation was found in the effects of MP, and five patients eventually required orthognathic surgery. In average change with MP, the maxilla showed favorable forward growth. Point A had moved forward from PV but not AV. The mandible rotated backward. However, ANB and the Wits value did not improve. U6 moved forward, and the overjet improved. After MP, the skeletal Class III relationship became severe.

Conclusions

MP was effective as an early treatment for UCLP patients. However, its effects showed large variation and were in conflict with facial growth. Conscientious explanation of the expected effects and associated problems should be given to the patients/parents before its application.
Short-Term Molding Effects on the Upper Alveolar Arch following Unilateral Cleft Lip Repair with/without Nasal Vestibular Expansion
Authors: Fuchigami Takao , Nakamura Norifumi , Nishihara Kazuhide , Matsunaga Kazuhide , Hasegawa Hiroko
Published: September 2013

Objective

To elucidate the various effects on maxillary growth following different procedures for vestibular expansion at the time of primary lip repair for unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP).

Participants

Thirty patients with complete UCLP who underwent primary lip repair using a triangular-flap technique with nasal vestibular expansion (NVE; the NVE group) and 30 patients who underwent the same lip repair with closure of the nasal floor (non-NVE group) were enrolled in this study.

Interventions

Serial dental casts on lip and palatal repair were scanned with a laser scanner. The three-dimensional coordinates of seven anatomical landmarks and their growth changes, the curvature radius rate between major/minor segments, and the collapse rates were compared between the two groups.

Results

At the time of lip repair, the incisal point was located slightly anteriorly in the non-NVE group. At the time of palatal repair, the cleft edge of the alveolar process in the minor segment was located significantly anteriorly and laterally in the NVE group, showing the significantly forward change of the minor segment. The minor segment collapsed in the non-NVE group. The collapse rate of the NVE group (3.3%) was significantly lower than that of the non-NVE group (40.0%).

Conclusions

NVE following simultaneous advancement of nasolabial components on the affected side at the time of primary lip repair for UCLP facilitates the forward molding of the maxilla, resulting in a more symmetrical alveolar arch form.
Shoreline change mapping along the coast of Galicia, Spain
Authors: Pérez-Alberti Augusto , Pires Ana , Freitas Liliana , Chaminé Helder
Published: September 2013

This study was concerned with shoreline change and cliff recession. Galicia (north-west Spain) comprises a very energetic and diversified coast. The study focused on the analysis of the coastal dynamics and the spatio-temporal changes of coastal morphology for the years 1956, 2003, 2006 and 2008, using the digital shoreline analysis system (DSAS) extension. Estimation of the rates of erosion and accretion along the pilot site (Fisterra/Finisterre area) was performed. In addition, a continuous coastline along Galicia was integrated into a geographical information system project which comprises an interactive database with key information. A coastal susceptibility map (erosion/accretion) was created based on the DSAS results for the short-term approach and cross-checked with knowledge of the area in terms of geology, geomorphology and landslide occurrences. Aspects related to the engineering solutions, land-use planning or environmental management were considered in the recommended strategy, as well as the impact and disturbance severity analysis for each action used. This research was developed to provide useful information about the Galicia territory and to give reliable data for the coastal management plan supported by the council. Such plan addresses some changes to the coastal policy and encourages future issues.
Interestingness and Pleasingness of Drawings from Different Age and Expertise Groups
Authors: Haanstra Folkert , Damen Marie-Louise , van Hoorn Marjo
Published: September 2013

Student groups with different levels of art expertise (art students and psychology students) judged a collection of drawings produced by people from different age and expertise groups (5-, 8-, 11-, and 14-year-old children, and adult artists and non-artists). Three assessment criteria were used, namely “interestingness,” “pleasingness,” and “overall quality” (good-poor). Previous studies had demonstrated that art experts value drawings by the youngest children and artists more highly than drawings from the other groups. In other words, they produce more U-curve appreciation patterns. Here we show that unlike in the case of naïve students, the mean judgment pattern of art experts for the criteria pleasingness and interestingness indeed form a U-curve. Furthermore, expert judges exhibited greater interdependence than naïve judges in their ratings of pleasingness and interestingness. The results are discussed in relation to contemporary models of aesthetic judgment.
Left Atrial Diameter and Survival among Renal Allograft Recipients
Authors: Kainz Alexander , Goliasch Georg , Wiesbauer Franz , Binder Thomas , Maurer Gerald , Nesser Hans-Joachim , Mascherbauer Regina , Ebner Christian , Kramar Reinhard , Wilflingseder Julia , Oberbauer Rainer
Published: September 2013

Background and objectives

Sequential echocardiography is routinely performed in patients with ESRD listed for transplantation. The benefit of this labor- and time-intensive measure, however, remains unclear. Thus, this study elucidated the various obtained routine echocardiography parameters that best predicted mortality and graft survival after renal transplantation.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This study investigated 553 first renal transplant recipients listed in the Austrian Dialysis and Transplant Registry between 1992 and 2011 who had echocardiographic analysis at transplantation and survived at least 1 year. Cox proportional hazards models with the purposeful selection algorithms for covariables were used to identify predictors of mortality and graft loss. A Fine and Gray model was used to evaluate cause-specific death.

Results

During a median follow-up of 7.14 years, 81 patients died, and 59 patients experienced graft loss after the first year. The Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that 85% of patients with a left atrial diameter below the median of 53 mm were alive 10 years after transplantation, whereas only 70% of those patients with a left atrial diameter equal to or above the median had survived (P<0.001). In the multivariable model, left atrial diameter (per millimeter) independently predicted overall mortality (hazard ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 1.03 to 1.08; P<0.001) and cause-specific cardiac death (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.00 to 1.08; P=0.04). Functional graft loss was predicted by the right atrial diameter (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.02 to 1.07; P=0.001).

Conclusion

The left atrial diameter determined at transplantation predicted overall and cardiac mortality. Patients with widely enlarged left atria exhibit a considerably reduced life expectancy. It remains to be determined, however, whether renal transplantation is futile in these patients.
Influence of Body Mass Index on the Association of Weight Changes with Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Cabezas-Rodriguez Iván , Carrero Juan Jesús , Zoccali Carmine , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Ketteler Markus , Floege Jürgen , London Gérard , Locatelli Francesco , Gorriz José Luis , Rutkowski Boleslaw , Memmos Dimitrios , Ferreira Anibal , Covic Adrian , Teplan Vladimir , Bos Willem-Jan , Kramar Reinhard , Pavlovic Drasko , Goldsmith David , Nagy Judit , Benedik Miha , Verbeelen Dierik , Tielemans Christian , Wüthrich Rudolf P. , Martin Pierre-Yves , Martínez-Salgado Carlos , Fernández-Martín José Luis , Cannata-Andia Jorge B.
Published: September 2013

Background and Objectives

A high body mass index (BMI) is associated with lower mortality in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Short-term weight gains and losses are also related to lower and higher mortality risk, respectively. The implications of weight gain or loss may, however, differ between obese individuals and their nonobese counterparts.

Design, Setting, Participants, & Measurements

The Current Management of Secondary Hyperparathyroidism: A Multicenter Observational Study (COSMOS) is an observational study including 6797 European hemodialysis patients recruited between February 2005 and July 2007, with prospective data collection every 6 months for 3 years. Time-dependent Cox proportional hazard regressions assessed the effect of BMI and weight changes on mortality. Analyses were performed after patient stratification according to their starting BMI.

Results

Among 6296 patients with complete data, 1643 died. At study entry, 42% of patients had a normal weight (BMI, 20–25 kg/m2), 11% were underweight, 31% were overweight, and 16% were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). Weight loss or gain (<1% or >1% of body weight) was strongly associated with higher rates of mortality or survival, respectively. After stratification by BMI categories, this was true in nonobese categories and especially in underweight patients. In obese patients, however, the association between weight loss and mortality was attenuated (hazard ratio, 1.28 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.74 to 2.14]), and no survival benefit of gaining weight was seen (hazard ratio, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.59 to 1.62]).

Conclusions

Assuming that these weight changes were unintentional, our study brings attention to rapid weight variations as a clinical sign of health monitoring in hemodialysis patients. In addition, a patient’s BMI modifies the strength of the association between weight changes with mortality.
Insulin Stimulates Mitochondrial Fusion and Function in Cardiomyocytes via the Akt-mTOR-NFκB-Opa-1 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Parra Valentina , Verdejo Hugo E. , Iglewski Myriam , del Campo Andrea , Troncoso Rodrigo , Jones Deborah , Zhu Yi , Kuzmicic Jovan , Pennanen Christian , Lopez‑Crisosto Camila , Jaña Fabián , Ferreira Jorge , Noguera Eduard , Chiong Mario , Bernlohr David A. , Klip Amira , Hill Joseph A. , Rothermel Beverly A. , Abel Evan Dale , Zorzano Antonio , Lavandero Sergio
Published: September 2013

Insulin regulates heart metabolism through the regulation of insulin-stimulated glucose uptake. Studies have indicated that insulin can also regulate mitochondrial function. Relevant to this idea, mitochondrial function is impaired in diabetic individuals. Furthermore, the expression of Opa-1 and mitofusins, proteins of the mitochondrial fusion machinery, is dramatically altered in obese and insulin-resistant patients. Given the role of insulin in the control of cardiac energetics, the goal of this study was to investigate whether insulin affects mitochondrial dynamics in cardiomyocytes. Confocal microscopy and the mitochondrial dye MitoTracker Green were used to obtain three-dimensional images of the mitochondrial network in cardiomyocytes and L6 skeletal muscle cells in culture. Three hours of insulin treatment increased Opa-1 protein levels, promoted mitochondrial fusion, increased mitochondrial membrane potential, and elevated both intracellular ATP levels and oxygen consumption in cardiomyocytes in vitro and in vivo. Consequently, the silencing of Opa-1 or Mfn2 prevented all the metabolic effects triggered by insulin. We also provide evidence indicating that insulin increases mitochondrial function in cardiomyocytes through the Akt-mTOR-NFκB signaling pathway. These data demonstrate for the first time in our knowledge that insulin acutely regulates mitochondrial metabolism in cardiomyocytes through a mechanism that depends on increased mitochondrial fusion, Opa-1, and the Akt-mTOR-NFκB pathway.
Increased Risk of Cognitive Impairment in Patients With Diabetes Is Associated With Metformin
Authors: Moore Eileen M. , Mander Alastair G. , Ames David , Kotowicz Mark A. , Carne Ross P. , Brodaty Henry , Woodward Michael , Boundy Karyn , Ellis Kathryn A. , Bush Ashley I. , Faux Noel G. , Martins Ralph , Szoeke Cassandra , Rowe Christopher , Watters David A. ,   the AIBL Investigators
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the associations of metformin, serum vitamin B12, calcium supplements, and cognitive impairment in patients with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants were recruited from the Primary Research in Memory (PRIME) clinics study, the Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AIBL) study of aging, and the Barwon region of southeastern Australia. Patients with Alzheimer disease (AD) (n = 480) or mild cognitive impairment (n = 187) and those who were cognitively intact (n = 687) were included; patients with stroke or with neurodegenerative diseases other than AD were excluded. Subgroup analyses were performed for participants who had either type 2 diabetes (n = 104) or impaired glucose tolerance (n = 22).

RESULTS

Participants with diabetes (n = 126) had worse cognitive performance than participants who did not have diabetes (n = 1,228; adjusted odds ratio 1.51 [95% CI 1.03–2.21]). Among participants with diabetes, worse cognitive performance was associated with metformin use (2.23 [1.05–4.75]). After adjusting for age, sex, level of education, history of depression, serum vitamin B12, and metformin use, participants with diabetes who were taking calcium supplements had better cognitive performance (0.41 [0.19–0.92]).

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin use was associated with impaired cognitive performance. Vitamin B12 and calcium supplements may alleviate metformin-induced vitamin B12 deficiency and were associated with better cognitive outcomes. Prospective trials are warranted to assess the beneficial effects of vitamin B12 and calcium use on cognition in older people with diabetes who are taking metformin.
Correlations Between Serum Bilirubin Levels and Diabetic Nephropathy Progression Among Japanese Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Prospective Cohort Study (Diabetes Distress and Care Registry at Tenri [DDCRT 5])
Authors: Mashitani Tsuyoshi , Hayashino Yasuaki , Okamura Shintarou , Tsujii Satoru , Ishii Hitoshi
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

To assess the correlations between serum bilirubin levels and diabetic nephropathy development and progression in type 2 diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Longitudinal data were obtained from 2,511 type 2 diabetic patients registered in a Japanese diabetes registry. To assess the independent correlations between serum bilirubin levels and either the development or progression of diabetic nephropathy, we used logistic regression analysis adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period was 503.4 days (range 238–777). The mean patient age, BMI, and HbA1c level was 65.2 years, 24.7 kg/m2, and 7.5% (58.5 mmol/mol), respectively. Baseline serum bilirubin levels were significantly associated with the urinary albumin-creatinine ratio at baseline (P < 0.001) and 1 year after registration (P < 0.001). Multivariable adjusted odds ratios for progression from microalbuminuria to macroalbuminuria for the second, third, and fourth quartile of serum bilirubin levels were 0.89 (95% CI 0.49–1.58), 0.93 (0.47–1.83), and 0.33 (0.13–0.84), respectively, showing a statistically significant linear trend across categories (P = 0.032). However, this trend disappeared after adjustment for hemoglobin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum bilirubin levels were associated with diabetic nephropathy progression in type 2 diabetic patients independent of possible confounders. Serum bilirubin levels might be the link in the correlation between hemoglobin levels and nephropathy progression.
Diabetic Nephropathy and Microalbuminuria in Pregnant Women With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Damm Julie Agner , Ásbjörnsdóttir Björg , Callesen Nicoline Foged , Mathiesen Jonathan M. , Ringholm Lene , Pedersen Berit Woetmann , Mathiesen Elisabeth R.
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence of diabetic nephropathy and microalbuminuria in pregnant women with type 2 diabetes in comparison with type 1 diabetes and to describe pregnancy outcomes in these women following the same antihypertensive protocol.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Among 220 women with type 2 diabetes and 445 women with type 1 diabetes giving birth from 2007–2012, 41 women had diabetic nephropathy (albumin-creatinine ratio ≥300 mg/g) or microalbuminuria (albumin-creatinine ratio 30–299 mg/g) in early pregnancy. Antihypertensive therapy was initiated if blood pressure ≥135/85 mmHg or albumin-creatinine ratio ≥300 mg/g.

RESULTS

The prevalence of diabetic nephropathy was 2.3% (5 of 220) in women with type 2 diabetes and 2.5% (11 of 445) in women with type 1 diabetes (P = 1.00). The figures for microalbuminuria were 4.5 (10 of 220) vs. 3.4% (15 of 445) (P = 0.39). Baseline glycemic control was comparable between women with type 2 diabetes (n = 15) and type 1 diabetes (n = 26). Blood pressure at baseline was median 128 (range 100–164)/81 (68–91) vs. 132 (100–176)/80 (63–100) mmHg (not significant) and antihypertensive therapy in type 2 versus type 1 diabetes was used in 0 and 62%, respectively, at baseline, increasing to 33 and 96%, respectively, in late pregnancy. Pregnancy outcome was comparable regardless type of diabetes; gestational age at delivery: 259 days (221–276) vs. 257 (184–271) (P = 0.19); birth weight 3,304 g (1,278–3,914) vs. 2,850 (370–4,180) (P = 0.67).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of diabetic nephropathy and microalbuminuria in early pregnancy was similar in type 2 and type 1 diabetes. Antihypertensive therapy was used more frequently in type 1 diabetes. Pregnancy outcome was comparable regardless type of diabetes.
Barriers to Eye Care Among People Aged 40 Years and Older With Diagnosed Diabetes, 2006–2010
Authors: Chou Chiu-Fang , Sherrod Cheryl E. , Zhang Xinzhi , Barker Lawrence E. , Bullard Kai McKeever , Crews John E. , Saaddine Jinan B.
Published: September 2013

OBJECTIVE

We examine barriers to receiving recommended eye care among people aged ≥40 years with diagnosed diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed 2006–2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 22 states (n = 27,699). Respondents who had not sought eye care in the preceding 12 months were asked the main reason why. We categorized the reasons as cost/lack of insurance, no need, no eye doctor/travel/appointment, and other (meaning everything else). We used multinomial logistic regression to control for race/ethnicity, education, income, and other selected covariates.

RESULTS

Among adults with diagnosed diabetes, nonadherence to the recommended annual eye examinations was 23.5%. The most commonly reported reasons for not receiving eye care in the preceding 12 months were “no need” and “cost or lack of insurance” (39.7 and 32.3%, respectively). Other reasons were “no eye doctor,” “no transportation” or “could not get appointment” (6.4%), and “other” (21.5%). After controlling for covariates, adults aged 40–64 years were more likely than those aged ≥65 years (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 2.79; 95% CI 2.01–3.89) and women were more likely than men (RRR = 2.33; 95% CI 1.75–3.14) to report “cost or lack of insurance” as their main reason. However, people aged 40–64 years were less likely than those aged ≥65 years to report “no need” (RRR = 0.51; 95% CI 0.39–0.67) as their main reason.

CONCLUSIONS

Addressing concerns about “cost or lack of insurance” for adults under 65 years and “no perceived need” among those 65 years and older could help improve eye care service utilization among people with diabetes.
Thermosoftening of the Parker Flex-TipTM Tracheal Tube in Preparation for Nasotracheal Intubation
Authors: Sanuki Takuro , Kotani Junichiro
Published: September 2013

The Parker Flex-Tip tracheal tube (PFTT, Parker Medical, Highlands Ranch, Colo) has a soft, flexible, curved tip with double Murphy eyes. Previous studies have shown that the PFTT reduces the incidence of epistaxis during nasotracheal intubation and the incidence of postintubation nasal pain, as compared to conventional tracheal tubes. Although thermosoftening is a well-known and effective technique for reducing epistaxis during nasotracheal intubation with conventional tracheal tubes, we occasionally encounter difficulties with advancing the tube through the nasal passage when the PFTT is thermosoftened prior to nasotracheal intubation. Consequently, when using the PFTT for nasotracheal intubation, the procedure of thermosoftening should be avoided.
Antimicrobial Drugs
Authors: Becker Daniel E.
Published: September 2013

Antibiotics play a vital role in dental practice for managing orofacial infections. They are used to manage existing infection and they are also used as prophylaxis for certain medical conditions and surgical procedures. This article will review pharmacological and therapeutic considerations for the proper use of these agents for dental infections.
An Initially Deformed Flat Frame Finite Element
Authors: Zamorowski J.
Published: September 2013

The paper presents the author’s non-linear FEM solution of an initially stressless deformed flat frame element, in which the nodes are situated along the axis of the bar initially straight. It has been assumed that each node may sustain arbitrary displacements and rotation. The solution takes into account the effect of shear, the geometrical non-linearity with large displacements (Green-Lagrange’s strain tensor) and moderate rotations (i.e. such ones which allow a linear-elastic behaviour of the material) and alternative small rotations when the second Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor is applied. This solution is based on [1], concerning beams without any initial bow imperfections. The convergence of the obtained results at different numbers of nodes and Gauss points in the element was tested basing on the example of circular arcs with a central angle of 120° ÷180°. The analysis concerned elements with two, three, five, seven, nine and eleven nodes, for the same number of points of numerical integration and also with one more or less. Moreover, the effect of distributing the load on the convergence of the results was analyzed.
Analysis of Solidification Parameters and Macrostructure of IN-713C Castings after Complex Modification
Authors: Binczyk F. , Gradoń P.
Published: September 2013

The paper presents a research results concerning impact of volume modification (ceramic filter containning cobalt aluminate and hafnium powder) and simultaneous surface and volume modification on solidification and stereological parameters of macrostructure of castings made from post-production scrap of nickel superalloy IN-713C. Research included investigation of the influence of chemical composition on the temperature Tliq i Tsol and evaluation of following macrostructure parameters: the number of grains per mm2, average grain area and shape coefficient. Results indicate high influence of carbon content on Tliq. Macrostructure of sample castings indicate positive effect of surface and volume modification, however impact of surface modification is more pronounced.
Characteristic of Core Manufacturing Process with Use of Sand, Bonded by Ecological Friendly Nonorganic Binders
Authors: Fedoryszyn A. , Dańko J. , Dańko R. , Asłanowicz M. , Fulko T. , Ościłowski A.
Published: September 2013

Mechanization of the process of core making with the use of inorganic and organic binders is based, almost solely, on core blowing machines. Presently the core blowing machines are equipped with tools and devices that allow for application of different technologies of core making. Cold-box, hot-box and warm-air technologies require that core blowing machines shall be additionally equipped with either core-box pre-heating system or gas purging and neutralization system, or hot air purging systems.

Considering the possibility of using varied, the most advantageous technologies of core making, the production of universal core blowing machines equipped with replaceable devices has been undertaken in Poland. The universal core blowing systems allow for mechanization of core making process also with the use of sand, bonded by modern, eco-friendly binder systems.

The paper presents selected results-based evaluation of core blowing process showing the scope of conducted design and implementation works.
Effect of the Remelting on Transformations in Co-Cr-Mo Prosthetics Alloy
Authors: Kacprzyk B. , Szymczak T. , Gumienny G. , Klimek L.
Published: September 2013

In the article we were studing the impact of the remelting on transformations in Co-Cr-Mo prosthetics alloy. The TDA curves were analyzed, the microstructure was examined, the analysis of the chemical composition and hardness using the Brinell method was made. It was found that the obtained microstructure of the alloys that we studied do not differ significantly. In all four samples, microscopic images were similar to each other. The volume, size and distribution of the phases remain similar. Analysis of the chemical composition showed that all the samples fall within the compositions provided for the test alloy. Further to this the hardness of the samples, regardless of the number of remeltings did not show any significant fluctuations and remained within the error limit.After analyzing all the results, it can be concluded that the remeltings of the alloys should not have a significant impact on their properties. Secondarily melted alloys can be used for prosthetics works.
Analysis of Structure and Abrasion Resistance of the Metal Composite Based on an Intermetallic FeAl Phase with VC and TiC Precipitates
Authors: Kopyciński D. , Guzik E. , Gilewski R. , Szczęsny A. , Dorula J.
Published: September 2013

Metal alloys with matrix based on an Fe-Al system are generally considered materials for high-temperature applications. Their main advantages are compact crystallographic structure, long-range ordering and structural stability at high temperatures. These materials are based on an intermetallic phase of FeAl or Fe3Al, which is stable in the range from room temperature up to the melting point of 1240°C. Their application at high temperatures is also beneficial because of the low cost of production, very good resistance to oxidation and corrosion, and high mechanical strength. The casting alloy the structure of which includes the FeAl phase is, among others, highaluminium cast iron. This study has been devoted to the determination of the effect of vanadium and titanium on the transformation of the high-aluminium cast iron structure into an in-situ FeAl-VC composite.
The Influence of Pressure Die Casting Parameters on Distribution of Reinforcing Particles in the AlSi11/10% SiC Composite
Authors: Pasieka A. , Konopka Z.
Published: September 2013

The method of pressure die casting of composites with AlSi11 alloy matrix reinforced with 10 vol. % of SiC particles and the analysis of the distribution of particles within the matrix is presented. The composite castings were produced at various values of the piston velocity in the second stage of injection, at diverse intensification pressure values, and various injection gate width values. The distribution of particles over the entire cross-section of the tensile specimen is shown. The index of distribution was determined on the basis of particle count in elementary measuring fields. The regression equation describing the change of the considered index was found as a function of the pressure die casting parameters. The conclusion presents an analysis of the obtained results and their interpretation.
The Mechanical Properties of AlSi17Cu5 Cast Alloy after Overheating and Modification of CuP Master Alloy
Authors: Piątkowski J. , Jabłońska M.
Published: September 2013

The paper presents the results of studies on the effect of the AlSi17Cu5 alloy overheating to atemperature of 920°C and modification with phosphorus (CuP10) on the resultingmechanical (HB, Rm, R0.2) and plastic (A5 and Z) properties. It has been shown that, so-called, "timethermal treatment" (TTT) of an alloy in the liquid state, consisting inoverheating the metal to about 250°C above Tliq,holding at this temperature by 30 minutes improvesthe mechanical properties. It has also been found that overheating of alloy above Tliq.enhances the process of modification, resulting in the formation of fine-grain structure. The primary silicon crystals uniformly distributed in the eutectic and characteristics ofthe α(Al) solution supersaturated with alloying elements present in the starting alloy composition (Cu, Fe) provide not only an increase of strength at ambient temperature but also at elevated temperature (250°C).