bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparación de la eficacia de la diálisis entre dos sistemas de control de reinfusión en hemodiafiltración en línea
Authors: Aznar Barbero Sonia , Bel Cegarra Ramón , Badallo Mira Mª Magdalena , Beltrán Martínez Bruno David , Pagán Escribano David , Blázquez Fuentes Sergio , Ponce Palacios Ruth , Beltrán Redondo Mª Isabel
Published: December 2012

La dosis de diálisis y volumen de reinfusión son ele-mentos claves en los mejores resultados comunicados en la hemodiafiltración on-line. Avances tecnológicos permiten dos formas de control automatizado del volumen de reinfusión (una volumétrica y otra por presión), y dos métodos de medición del Kt obtenido por dialisancia iónica (OCM y Diascan). El propósito del presente estudio fue compararlos. Se diseña un estudio prospectivo cruzado sobre población prevalen-te en hemodiafiltración on-line posdilucional, con con-sentimiento expreso. Durante 2 semanas consecutivas se realizan tres sesiones con reinfusión automática según hematocrito y proteínas totales, y medición del Kt por OCM, y tres sesiones con reinfusión automática en función de la presión transmembrana y medición del Kt por Diascan. Se compara el valor promedio de volumen de reinfusión y Kt, contrastando las varia-bles con la t-student para muestras relacionadas, estableciendo un valor de significación estadística p < 0,05. Dieciséis pacientes concluyen el estudio, 56% hombres, 58,8 años. Un 81,3% presentan fístula autóloga o protésica como acceso vascular. El volumen de reinfusión es significativamente mayor (p = 0,029) bajo control de presión (23,24 ± 2,55 l versus 21,81 ± 1,75 l) mientras que el Kt medido por OCM es significativamente (p < 0,001) mayor que con Diascan (59,94 ± 5,05 l versus 55,12 ± 4,15 l). Encontramos un incremento medio del volumen de reinfusión (6,2%) bajo control de presión, si bien ambos métodos obtienen buenos resultados en los litros de trasporte convectivo final. La dosis de diálisis administrada (Kt) es mayor utilizando OCM.
Development of medical imaging technologies is the best way to advance clinical diagnostic accuracy and there is no such thing as VOMIT
Authors: McCoubrie P , Reid JH
Published: December 2012

We recently published a commentary on the impact of blood biomarkers in clinical decision-making. In this issue we shift to a similar contemporary debate surrounding over-reliance on imaging technologies to make diagnoses, often without a clinical rationale other than to rule out pathology. This strategy is not without harm to patients as illustrated by both of our experienced contributors. The place and responsibility for missed or irrelevant diagnoses following imaging will often rest on little more than inept clinical targeting, although as McCoubrie points out, the skilled radiologist may have some role in tempering everything from overzealous interpretation to simple error. Given that many techniques are based on (albeit falling) X-ray exposure and involve vastly expensive (and routinely redundant) technologies operating almost continuously, the role of skilled radiological input is more essential than ever for reducing VOMIT. Can we control inadequate imaging request strategies?
Frailty and its quantitative clinical evaluation
Authors: Moorhouse P , Rockwood K
Published: December 2012

Frailty is a progressive physiological decline in multiple organ systems marked by loss of function, loss of physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to disease and death. Frail older adults are vulnerable to poor health outcomes including an increased risk of disability, social isolation and institutionalisation. With the advances in understanding of the physiological underpinnings and clinical measurement of frailty over the past decade, opportunities both to streamline and quantify the clinical measurement and care planning associated with frailty have emerged. Such tools allow clinicians to recognise and quantify frailty in order to understand a patient’s vulnerability to poor health outcomes in a way that chronological age does not provide. Clinical research into outcomes associated with frailty in specific settings is ongoing and will be instrumental to the provision of appropriate care of older adults in the future.
History of geriatric medicine: from Hippocrates to Marjory Warren
Authors: Ritch A
Published: December 2012

It is widely assumed that geriatric medicine was an invention of the twentieth century. However, from the time of Hippocrates, there has been interest in the prolongation of the lifespan, the maintenance of health in old age and agerelated disease patterns. The debate about whether old age was a natural phenomenon or a disease state was not resolved until the nineteenth century. Calls for medicine relating to old age to be recognised as a discrete entity at the time when medical specialisation was developing were disregarded until the second half of the twentieth century. This review discusses the history of the theories of ageing and of disease and the practice of medicine for older people from the classical period up to Marjory Warren’s initiative in London in 1935 and the development of geriatrics as a medical specialty.
Cancer Endometrium: An Update
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Goel Jai Kishan
Published: December 2012

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in developed countries and second most common in developing countries. Its incidence is increasing in postmenopausal women. Factors related to chronic estrogen exposure are associated with a higher incidence. Abnormal uterine bleeding is the cardinal symptom. All women with suspected endometrial cancer require transvaginal ultrasonography and most will undergo endometrial biopsy; more sophisticated radiological examinations are required for preoperative staging. The general approach for treatment of endometrial cancer is hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, abdominopelvic washings, lymph node evaluation and maximal surgical cytoreduction for those with advanced disease. Postoperative adjuvant therapy [vaginal brachytherapy, external beam radiation therapy (RT), chemotherapy] may be recommended depending on the estimated risk of recurrence. Individual patient characteristics and surgical as well as pathologic staging are the main factors that are used for postsurgical risk stratification, which in turn, directs the selection of adjuvant treatment.

How to cite this article

Goel JK, Kumar P. Cancer Endometrium: An Update. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(2):75-84.
Prophylactic Intramyometrial Oxytocin before Placenta Delivery during Cesarean Section Prevents Postpartum Hemorrhage: A Prospective Randomized Study of 150 Women
Authors: Mangla Divya , Goel JK , Goel Ruchica
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To compare efficacy of intramyometrial oxytocin vs intravenous oxytocin infusion in reducing blood loss during cesarean section.

Materials and methods

A prospective randomized controlled trial of 150 women undergoing cesarean section was done. Women undergoing cesarean section were randomly divided into three groups according to method of administration of oxytocin. In group I (n = 50): 20 units of oxytocin in 500 cc of ringer lactate as continuous infusion I/V after separation of placenta was given. In group II (n = 50): 5 units of oxytocin is diluted in 10 cc of normal saline and 5 cc injected in each cornu of uterus after separation of placenta. In group III (n = 50): 5 units of oxytocin is diluted in 10 cc of normal Saline and 5 cc injected in each cornu of uterus before separation of placenta. Blood loss was calculated by number of mops soaked and amount of blood in suction jar.

Results

Average blood loss was found to be more in group I 606 cc, while in group II average blood loss was 460 ml which further decreased to 412 cc in group III. There was an additional observation that the 6% cases where I/V oxytocin infusion could not prevent uterine atony while immediate uterine contraction was achieved with intramyometrial oxytocin.

Conclusion

Intramyometrial injection of oxytocin when given before separation of placenta was found to be most effective method to increase uterine contraction, reducing incidence of postpartum hemorrhage and thus decreasing cesarean morbidity.

How to cite this article

Mangla D, Goel JK, Goel R. Prophylactic Intramyometrial Oxytocin before Placenta Delivery during Cesarean Section Prevents Postpartum Hemorrhage: A Prospective Randomized Study of 150 Women. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(2):93-96.
Knowledge of Emergency Contraception among Married Women of Reproductive Age in a Rural-based Teaching Hospital of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Joshi Sulbha , Kose Varsha
Published: December 2012

Objective

To assess the awareness and level of knowledge toward emergency contraception among married women in the reproductive age group.

Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted employing prestructured questionnaire, which included information about age, occupation, income, education, obstetric profile, knowledge and use of emergency contraception.

Results

The average age of women included in the study was 24.6 years. About 33% of women knew about emergency contraception. They mainly belonged to educated category, working class and with income group more than 5000 per month. There are about 5% of women who know about emergency contraception and have used it in the past.

Conclusion

There is a need to popularize emergency contraception in India for its better usages among women to avoid unwanted pregnancies and abortions.

How to cite this article

Kose V, Joshi S. Knowledge of Emergency Contraception among Married Women of Reproductive Age in a Rural-based Teaching Hospital of Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(2):106-109.
Study of Puberty Menorrhagia in Adolescent Girl in a Rural Set-up
Authors: Shrivastava Deepti , Joshi Shikha , Chella Hariharan
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Puberty menorrhagia is a real trouble among adolescent girls mostly due to problem in hypothalamic-pituitaryovarian axis.

Aims and objectives

To understand the various causative factors in puberty menorrhagia and to evaluate the role of hormones estrogens, progesterones or combination of both in controlling the excessive menstrual bleeding.

Materials and methods

It is a study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital, JNMC, Sawangi from January 2009 to December 2010. Study included a total of 50 adolescent girls presenting with complains of menorrhagia.

Results

About 78% patients had menorrhagia due to immaturity of hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis; 14% had polycystic ovarian disease and 8% had hypothyroidism. Out of 50 patients who were treated with hormones, 26 patients (52%) responded by the end of third month follow-up.

Conclusion

Majority of the patients showed good response to combined oral contraceptive pills (78%).

How to cite this article

Joshi S, Chella H, Shrivastava D. Study of Puberty Menorrhagia in Adolescent Girl in a Rural Set-up. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(2):110-112.
Evaluative Study on Effectiveness of Maternal and Child Health Care Participatory Training Program among Staff Nurses, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives and Lady Health Visitors
Authors: Rao Anitha C , Shetty Prasannakumar
Published: December 2012

Objectives

The objectives of the study are to: (i) Determine the learning needs of staff nurses, auxiliary nurse midwives and lady health visitors on maternal and child health care. (ii) Determine the level of knowledge and selected maternal and child health care practices of staff nurses, auxiliary nurse midwives and lady health visitors on maternal and child health care before and after the implementation of the educational intervention program. (iii) Evaluate the effectiveness of maternal and child health educational intervention program.

Materials and methods

This evaluative study at selected health centers of Udupi district in India enrolled 50 staff nurses, auxiliary nurse midwives and lady health visitors who were currently employed.

Results

Major findings of the study were: There was a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in the performance skill related to antenatal, postnatal and newborn.

Conclusion

The training was effective in improving the overall performance of the workers. However, repeated in-service training is necessary in maintaining the levels of improvement.

How to cite this article

Rao AC, Shetty P. Evaluative Study on Effectiveness of Maternal and Child Health Care Participatory Training Program among Staff Nurses, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives and Lady Health Visitors. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(2):120-122.
Comportamento do Consumidor: avaliação de alternativas e busca de informação na escolha de cursos superiores em Ciência da Computação
Authors: Silva Kalil Érica Fernanda , Filho Cid Gonçalves
Published: December 2012

A computação, além de ser base dos diversos sistemas web, é responsável por um número crescente de empregos e pela geração de riqueza. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar o comportamento do consumidor (alunos de graduação) na escolha do curso de Ciência da Computação nas fases de busca de informação e avaliação das alternativas. A amostra contou com 208 questionários por meio de pesquisa quantitativa. A internet foi a ferramenta mais utilizada no processo de busca de informação. Na avaliação das  alternativas, a escolha do curso está relacionada a fatores profissionais, sociais, pessoais e de conveniência, e que, para escolha da IES, pesam o valor do diploma no mercado, a marca e reputação, a qualidade de ensino, os professores e a infraestrutura. Para a academia, o artigo provê evidências empíricas do comportamento do consumidor, propondo um modelo explicativo de escolha de IES e um modelo hipotético de impacto da satisfação do aluno em suas intenções comportamentais.
VALORIZACIÓN DE RESIDUOS AGROINDUSTRIALES DEL TEQUILA PARA ALIMENTACION DE RUMIANTES
Authors: Ramírez-Cortina Clementina R. , Alonso-Gutiérrez María S. , Rigal Luc
Published: December 2012

El objetivo de este trabajo fue investigar una tecnología adecuada para el uso del bagazo de Agave tequilana W. var. azul en raciones alimenticias para rumiantes. Las características físicas y químicas del bagazo fueron evaluadas. De acuerdo con dichas caracterizaciones, éste puede ser utilizado como complemento en la alimentación de rumiantes. Sin embargo, un inconveniente es la baja diges- tibilidad del bagazo, debido a su alto contenido de lignina; para disminuirlo se usó un tratamiento con hidróxido de calcio. El tratamiento químico se realizó en un reactor de vidrio (50 L) con las siguientes condiciones: concentraciones de Ca(OH)2 de 2, 5 y 10 %, humedad del bagazo de 20 y 80 %, tempe- raturas de 30 y 50 °C. Las pruebas de digestibilidad se realizaron en el bagazo tratado químicamente. La digestibilidad aumentó de 36 % (bagazo no tratado) a 54.5 % con el mejor tratamiento (humedad 80 %, Ca(OH)2 10 %, y 50 °C). Con base en los resultados de digestibilidad, se puede concluir que el bagazo tratado con Ca(OH)2 puede ser utilizado como suplemento en la composición de las raciones alimenticias de los rumiantes.
ACTIVIDAD INSECTICIDA DE ACEITES ESENCIALES DE DOS ESPECIES DE Eucalyptus SOBRE Rhyzopertha dominica Y SU EFECTO EN ENZIMAS DIGESTIVAS DE PROGENIES
Authors: Reyes-Guzmán Ramiro , Borboa-Flores Jesús , Cinco-Moroyoqui Francisco J. , Rosas-Burgos Ema C. , Osuna-Amarillas Pablo S. , Wong-Corral Francisco J. , Ortega-Nieblas María M. , León-Lara Juan D. D.
Published: December 2012

La fracción volátil de los aceites esenciales de Eucalyptus globulus y Eucalyptus camaldulensis se utilizaron para evaluar su actividad insecticida sobre el barrenador menor de los granos Rhyzopertha dominica (F.). Muestras de granos de trigo fueron infestadas con el insecto y expuestas a los vapores de diferentes volúmenes (5, 10 y 15 μL) de los aceites por diferentes periodos (24, 48 y 72 h). La actividad enzimática amilolítica y proteolítica se determinaron en las progenies (F1) que emergieron de los granos. Ambos aceites ocasionaron una estimulación en la actividad enzimática amilolítica y proteolítica de las progenies; sin embargo, solamente E. globulus ocasionó la muerte de éstas (P < 0.05). Al incrementar el volumen de aceite de E. camadulensis, la actividad proteolítica del insecto aumentó, incluso al mayor tiempo de exposición. Los resultados de este estudio muestran que la fracción volátil de los aceites esenciales de eucalipto, especialmente la de E. globulus, es un agente insecticida efectivo para el control de R. dominica en trigo almacenado.
Dynamic hydraulic models to study sedimentation in drinking water networks in detail
Authors: Pothof I. W. M. , Blokker E. J. M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Sedimentation in drinking water networks can lead to discolouration complaints. A sufficient criterion to prevent sedimentation in the Dutch drinking water networks is a daily maximum velocity of 0.25 m s−1. Flushing experiments have shown that this criterion is a sufficient condition for a clean network, but not a necessary condition. Drinking water networks include many locations with a maximum velocity well below 0.25 m s−1 without accumulated sediments. Other criteria need to be developed to predict which locations are susceptible to sedimentation and to prevent sedimentation in future networks. More distinctive criteria are helpful to prioritise flushing operations and to prevent water quality complaints. The authors use three different numerical modelling approaches – quasi-steady, rigid column and water hammer – with a temporal discretisation of 1 s in order to assess the influence of unsteady flows on the wall shear stress, causing resuspension of sediment particles. The model predictions are combined with results from flushing experiments in the drinking water distribution system of Purmerend, the Netherlands. The waterhammer model does not result in essentially different flow distribution patterns, compared to the rigid column and quasi-steady modelling approach. The extra information from the waterhammer model is a velocity oscillation of approximately 0.02 m s−1 around the quasi-steady solution. The presence of stagnation zones and multiple flow direction reversals seem to be interesting new parameters to predict sediment accumulation, which are consistent with the observed turbidity data and theoretical considerations on critical shear stresses.
Influence of a component of solar irradiance on radon signals at 1 km depth, Gran Sasso, Italy
Authors: Steinitz G. , Piatibratova O. , Charit-Yaari N.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Exploratory monitoring of radon is conducted at one location at the deep underground Gran Sasso National Laboratory (LNGS). Measurements (15-min resolution) are performed over a time span of ca. 600 days in the air of the surrounding calcareous country rock. Utilizing both alpha and gamma-ray detectors systematic and recurring radon signals are recorded. Two primary signal types are determined: (a) non-periodic Multi-Day (MD) signals lasting 2–10 days, and (b) Daily Radon (DR) signals – which are of a periodic nature exhibiting a primary 24-h cycle. The local ancillary environmental conditions (P, T) seem not to affect radon in air monitored at the site. Long term patterns of day-time measurements are different from the pattern of night-time measurements indicating a day-night modulation of gamma radiation from radon in air. The phenomenology of the MD and DR signals is similar to situations encountered at other locations where radon is monitored with a high time resolution in geogas at upper crustal levels. In accordance with recent field and experimental results it is suggested that a components of solar irradiance is affecting the radiation from radon in air, and this influence is further modulated by the diurnal rotation of Earth. The occurrence of these radon signals in the 1 km deep low radiation underground geological environment of LNGS provides new information on the time variation of the local radiation environment. The observations and results place the LNGS facility as a high priority location for performing advanced investigations of these geophysical phenomena, due to its location and its infrastructure.
Antimicrobial Activities of Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains Isolated from Nile Tilapia Intestine (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Zapata Ana A , Lara-Flores Maurilio
Published: December 2012

The intestinal microflora of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fish was studied to isolate and identify lactic acid bacteria as new probiotic. A total of five lactic acid bacteria were isolated from intestine to evaluate with antibacterial properties. These strains were identified by conventional and molecular techniques as: Enterococcus faecium, Leuconostocmesenteroides, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Enterococcus durans. Leuc.mesenteroides present more ability to inhibit growth of fish pathogens bacteria and selected as possible probiotic bacteria to use in aquaculture.
Impact of Isometric Handgrip Exercises on Cephalic Vein Diameter in Non-AVF Candidates, a Pilot Study
Authors: Uy Alice L. , Jindal Rahul M. , Herndon Travis W. , Yuan Christina M. , Abbott Kevin C. , Hurst Frank P.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

Incident arteriovenous fistula (AVF) rates remain low. AVF placement is often not attempted because of small cephalic vein (CV) diameter. We postulated that isometric handgrip exercises would increase forearm CV diameter and allow successful AVF creation in non-AVF candidates.

Methods

Adult subjects without prior vascular access (eGFR<25mL/min/1.73m2; CV<2.5mm) were prospectively enrolled. They performed daily handgrip exercises in the preferred access arm (EA), with the nonexercised arm (NEA) as control. Adherence was assessed by exercise logs and grip strength. CV diameter was measured at baseline, four and eight weeks by ultrasound. The primary endpoint was the mean increase in CV diameter. Secondary endpoints were mean CV diameter increase from baseline, increased proportion of potential AVF sites and successful AVF placement.

Results

A total of 17 subjects were enrolled and 15 completed the study. EA grip strength increased significantly. Mean CV diameter increased in both the EA and NEA by 0.48-0.59 and 0.71-0.81 mm (P=NS), respectively. Compared to baseline, all CV diameters increased significantly (P<.05) after four weeks. In the EA, mean distal and proximal CV increased from 1.66 to 2.13 mm and from 2.22 to 2.81 mm, respectively. Similar changes were noted in the NEA. There were also significant increases in the number of sites and subjects eligible for AVF creation. Five subjects had successful AVF placement.

Conclusions

Isometric handgrip exercises resulted in significant CV diameter increases after four weeks, in both the EA and the NEA and potentially allows for AVF creation in those not previously deemed candidates.
High Performance Gibbs Sampling for IRT Models Using Row-Wise Decomposition
Authors: Sheng Yanyan , Rahimi Mona
Published: December 2012

Item response theory (IRT) is a popular approach used for addressing statistical problems in psychometrics as well as in other fields. The fully Bayesian approach for estimating IRT models is computationally expensive. This limits the use of the procedure in real applications. In an effort to reduce the execution time, a previous study shows that high performance computing provides a solution by achieving a considerable speedup via the use of multiple processors. Given the high data dependencies in a single Markov chain for IRT models, it is not possible to avoid communication overhead among processors. This study is to reduce communication overhead via the use of a row-wise decomposition scheme. The results suggest that the proposed approach increased the speedup and the efficiency for each implementation while minimizing the cost and the total overhead. This further sheds light on developing high performance Gibbs samplers for more complicated IRT models.
Optimal Educational Investment: Domestic Equity and International Competition
Authors: Johnes Geraint
Published: December 2012

We construct a family of models to analyse the effect on optimal educational investment of (i) society's preferences for equity and (ii) competition between countries. The models provide insights about the impact of a variety of parameters on optimal policy. In particular, we identify a form of “overeducation” that is new to the literature and provide a counterexample to a common finding in the literature on fiscal federalism.
Strontium Incorporated Coralline Hydroxyapatite for Engineering Bone
Authors: Liu Waiching , Wang Ting , Shen Yuhui , Pan Haobo , Peng Songlin , Lu William W.
Published: December 2012

Goniopora was hydrothermally converted to coralline hydroxyapatite (CHA) and incorporated with Sr (Sr-CHA). The pore size of Goniopora was in the range of 40–300 μm with a porosity of about 68%. Surface morphologies of the coral were modified to flake-like hydroxyapatite structures on CHA and the addition of Sr detected on Sr-CHA as confirmed by SEM and EDX. As the first report of incorporating Sr into coral, about 6%–14% Sr was detected on Sr-CHA. The compressive strengths of CHA and Sr-CHA were not compromised due to the hydrothermal treatments. Sr-CHA was studied in vitro using MC3T3-E1 cells and in vivo with an ovariectomized rat model. The proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells was significantly promoted by Sr-CHA as compared to CHA. Moreover, higher scaffold volume retention (+40%) was reported on the micro-CT analysis of the Sr-CHA scaffold. The results suggest that the incorporation of Sr in CHA can further enhance the osteoconductivity and osteoinductivity of corals. Strontium has been suggested to stimulate bone growth and inhibit bone resorption. In this study, we have successfully incorporated Sr into CHA with the natural porous structure remained and explored the idea of Sr-CHA as a potential scaffolding material for bone regeneration.
Digoxigenin-Labeled Probe-Based Colony Blotting Assay for Rapid Quantification of Salmonella Serovars in Seafood and Water
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Lalitha K V
Published: December 2012

A non-radio-labeled probe-based detection method was developed for rapid enumeration of Salmonella in seafood and water samples. A Salmonella-specific invA gene probe was developed using a digoxigenin-based non-radio labeling assay, which was evaluated with naturally contaminated seafood and water samples. The probe-based technique was further compared with the quantitative PCR assay. The method was specific for detection of different Salmonella serovars without any nonspecific hybridization with other Salmonella-related Enterobacteriaceae. The optimum labeling efficiency was determined for the labeled probe, and 10 pg/μL probe concentration was observed to be most efficient for detection of Salmonella colonies on nylon membrane. Quantification of Salmonella in naturally contaminated seafood and water samples (n = 21) was in the range 10–102 CFU/mL. The assay successfully quantified Salmonella in spiked seafood and water samples in the presence of background flora, and the entire assay was completed within 48 h. The probe-based assay was further evaluated with real-time PCR, and results showed that the assay was comparable to real-time PCR assay. Thus, this probe-based assay can be a rapid, useful, and alternative technique for quantitative detection of Salmonella in food, feed, and water samples.
Analysis of Triazole-Based Metabolites in Plant Materials Using Differential Mobility Spectrometry to Improve LC/MS/MS Selectivity
Authors: Jasak Julia , Blanc Yves Le , Speer Karl , Billian Patrick , Schoening Ralf M
Published: December 2012

Triazole-derivative metabolites can occur in plant and animal materials and in water. Due to their physical-chemical properties, their analysis in complex matrixes is very difficult. The objective of this work was to develop a method for the analysis of these analytes that is easy to handle, quick, and enables quantification at a residue level of 0.01 mg/kg. Using the LC-differential mobility spectrometry/MS/MS system, cleanup and derivatization processes became unnecessary. For more than 10 representative plant materials it could be shown that the new method is valid and reproducible, thus leading to accurate and reliable results.
Determination of Aflatoxins B1, B2, G1, and G2 in Olive Oil, Peanut Oil, and Sesame Oil Using Immunoaffinity Column Cleanup, Postcolumn Derivatization, and Liquid Chromatography/Fluorescence Detection: Collaborative Study
Authors: Bao Lei , Liang Chengzhu , Trucksess Mary W , Xu Yanli , Lv Ning , Wu Zhenxing , Jing Ping , Fry Fred S ,   Collaborators:, Anderson S , Carter L , Corelli M , Han S , Hengst D , Iha M H , Guo C H , Kroeger K , Li J , Li J Q , Malone B , Malone R , MacDonald S , Nerkar S , Ouyang M Ofitserova
S , Sapp C , Sui K , Wang X , Yang J Z , Zhu W X
Published: December 2012

The accuracy, repeatability, and reproducibility characteristics of a method using immunoaffinity column (IAC) cleanup with postcolumn derivatization and LC with a fluorescence detector (FLD) for determination of aflatoxins (AFs; sum of AFs B1, B2, G1, and G2) in olive oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil have been established in a collaborative study involving 15 laboratories from six countries. Blind duplicate samples of blank, spiked at levels ranging from 0.25 to 20.0 μg/kg for AF, were analyzed. A naturally contaminated peanut oil sample was also included. Test samples were extracted with methanol–water (55 + 45, v/v). After shaking and centrifuging, the lower layer was filtered, diluted with water, and filtered through glass microfiber filter paper. The filtrate was then passed through an IAC, and the toxins were eluted with methanol. The toxins were then subjected to RPLC-FLD analysis after postcolumn derivatization. Average recoveries of AFs from olive oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil ranged from 84 to 92% (at spiking levels ranging from 2.0 to 20.0 μg/kg); of AFB1 from 86 to 93% (at spiking levels ranging from 1.0 to 10.0 μg/kg); of AFB2 from 89 to 95% (at spiking levels ranging from 0.25 to 2.5 μg/kg); of AFG1 from 85 to 97% (at spiking levels ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 μg/kg); and of AFG2 from 76 to 85% (at spiking levels ranging from 0.25 to 2.5 μg/kg). RSDs for within-laboratory repeatability (RSDr) ranged from 3.4 to 10.2% for AF, from 3.5 to 10.9% for AFB1, from 3.2 to 9.5% for AFB2, from 6.5 to 14.9% for AFG1, and from 4.8 to 14.2% for AFG2. RSDs for between-laboratory reproducibility (RSDR) ranged from 6.1 to 14.5% for AF, from 7.5 to 15.4% for AFB1, from 7.1 to 14.6% for AFB2, from 10.8 to 18.1% for AFG1, and from 7.6 to 23.7% for AFG2. Horwitz ratio values were ≤2 for the analytes in the three matrixes.
Validation of the Delvotest® SP NT
Authors: Hennart Stephen L A , Faragher John
Published: December 2012

Delvotest® SP NT is designed to test milk for the presence of antibacterial substances such as antibiotics. The test is made of an agar gel containing bacterial spores and a pH indicator. The milk sample is added onto the agar gel, and the test is placed for incubation at 64°C. The principle of the test is based on the diffusion of possible inhibitory substances that may be present in the milk sample into the agar. This reduces growth and acid production by the test organism and delays or prevents the agar from changing color from purple to yellow. The present report includes all technical details about the Delvotest SP NT and the results of the validation study. The validation study demonstrates that the Delvotest SP NT conforms to the product performance claims and confirms the robustness of the test. The Delvotest SP NT is therefore granted Performance Tested MethodSM certification.
Application of a Microplate-Based ORAC-Pyrogallol Red Assay for the Estimation of Antioxidant Capacity: First Action 2012.03
Authors: Ortiz Rocío , Antilén Mónica , Speisky Hernán , Aliaga Margarita E , López-Alarcón Camilo , Baugh Steve
Published: December 2012

A method was developed for microplate-based oxygen radicals absorbance capacity (ORAC) using pyrogallol red (PGR) as probe (ORAC-PGR). The method was evaluated for linearity, precision, and accuracy. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of commercial beverages, such as wines, fruit juices, and iced teas, was measured. Linearity of the area under the curve (AUC) versus Trolox® concentration plots was [AUC = (845 ± 110) + (23 ± 2) [Trolox, μM]; R = 0.9961, n = 19]. Analyses showed better precision and accuracy at the highest Trolox concentration (40 μM) with RSD and recovery (REC) values of 1.7 and 101.0%, respectively. The method also showed good linearity for red wine [AUC = (787 ± 77) + (690 ± 60) [red wine, μL/mL]; R = 0.9926, n = 17], precision and accuracy with RSD values from 1.4 to 8.3%, and REC values that ranged from 89.7 to 103.8%. Red wines showed higher ORAC-PGR values than white wines, while the ORAC-PGR index of fruit juices and iced teas presented a wide range of results, from 0.6 to 21.6 mM of Trolox equivalents. Product-to-product variability was also observed for juices of the same fruit, showing the differences between brands on the ORAC-PGR index.
Editorial Board Thoughts: Is Open Access the Answer?
Authors: Porter Cynthia
Published: December 2012

Editorial Board Thoughts: Is Open Access the Answer?
A Simple Scheme for Book Classification Using Wikipedia
Authors: Yelton Andromeda
Published: December 2012

Because the rate at which documents are being generated outstrips librarians’ ability to catalog them, an accurate, automated scheme of subject classification is desirable. However, simplistic word-counting schemes miss many important concepts; librarians must enrich algorithms with background knowledge to escape basic problems such as polysemy and synonymy. I have developed a script that uses Wikipedia as context for analyzing the subjects of nonfiction books. Though a simple method built quickly from freely available parts, it is partially successful, suggesting the promise of such an approach for future research.
The Internet Public Library (IPL): An Exploratory Case Study on User Perceptions
Authors: Maceli Monica , Wiedenbeck Susan , Abels Eileen
Published: December 2012

The Internet Public Library (IPL), now known as ipl2, was created in 1995 with the mission of serving the public by providing librarian-recommended Internet resources and reference help. We present an exploratory case study on public perceptions of an “Internet public library,” based on qualitative analysis of interviews with ten college student participants: some current users and others unfamiliar with the IPL. The exploratory interviews revealed some confusion around the IPL’s name and the types of resources and services that would be offered. Participants made many positive comments about the IPL’s resource quality, credibility, and personal help.
Semantic Web for Reliable Citation Analysis in Scholarly Publishing
Authors: Tous Ruben , Guerrero Manel , Delgado Jaime
Published: December 2012

Analysis of the impact of scholarly artifacts is constrained by current unreliable practices in cross-referencing, citation discovering, and citation indexing and analysis, which have not kept pace with the technological advances that are occurring in several areas like knowledge management and security. Because citation analysis has become the primary component in scholarly impact factor calculation, and considering the relevance of this metric within both the scholarly publishing value chain and (especially important) the professional curriculum evaluation of scholarly professionals, we defend that current practices need to be revised. This paper describes a reference architecture that aims to provide openness and reliability to the citation-tracking lifecycle. The solution relies on the use of digitally signed semantic metadata in the different stages of the scholarly publishing workflow in such a manner that authors, publishers, repositories, and citation-analysis systems will have access to independent reliable evidences that are resistant to forgery, impersonation, and repudiation. As far as we know, this is the first paper to combine Semantic Web technologies and public-key cryptography to achieve reliable citation analysis in scholarly publishing
Usability of the VuFind Next-Generation Online Catalog
Authors: Emanuel Jennifer
Published: December 2012

The VuFind open–source, next-generation catalog system was implemented by the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Illinois as an alternative to the WebVoyage OPAC system. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign began offering VuFind alongside WebVoyage in 2009 as an experiment in next generation catalogs. Using a faceted search discovery interface, it offered numerous improvements to the UIUC catalog and focused on limiting results after searching rather than limiting searches up front. Library users have praised VuFind for its Web 2.0 feel and features. However, there are issues, particularly with catalog data.
Label de calidad e indicaciones geográficas protegidas como estrategia empresarial: El caso Brandy de Jerez desde una perspectiva de las RR.PP
Authors: Pulido Marta , Jiménez Gloria , Silva Carmen
Published: December 2012

La Indicación Geográfica Protegida (IGP), como label de calidad, supone una doble perspectiva: un valor añadido a la marca del producto, al tiempo que es una garantía de calidad mínima. Sirve para hacer alusión a productos de la industria agroalimentaria que se identifican por unas características diferentes y propias que se derivan de su procedencia geográfica, añadiendo percepción pública del mismo, controles y normativas estrictas de elaboración y un marco legal específico. En este sentido, las indicaciones geográficas protegidas juegan un importante papel en la gestión empresarial y, desde una óptica comunicacional, un rol fundamental en la gestión de las RR.PP. En este estudio realizamos un estudio del Consejo Regulador de la indicación geográfica protegida Brandy de Jerez a través del estudio de caso combinado con otras técnicas de investigación como son la entrevista, la observación directa y la consulta de  fuentes de datos secundarios. Consideramos, pues, a partir de las veinte memorias anuales que el Consejo Regulador de la indicación geográfica protegida Brandy de Jerez emitió desde 1989 hasta 2008, la relación existente entre el label de calidad IGP y la gestión de las RR.PP. de las empresas y productos que quedan bajo el amparo esta protección.
Las nuevas marcas de pleno derecho
Authors: Fernández Beltrán Francisco
Published: December 2012

Reseña de:Olivares, Fernando (coord.) (2012).Rebelión en las marcas.Madrid, LID Editorial Empresarial.
Presència i participació de treballadors i col·laboradors a les emissores de ràdio locals i comarcals de Catalunya
Authors: Solà Saña Sergi , Micó Sanz Josep Lluís
Published: December 2012

Uno de los factores que explica el funcionamiento de los medios de comunicación es la participación activa de personas en sus estructuras profesionales. En este sentido, los trabajadores y los colaboradores son piezas clave para que los medios puedan desarrollar su tarea social de ofrecer información a su audiencia. En un medio de comunicación concreto como son las emisoras de radio locales y comarcales de Catalunya, el factor humano tiene todavía una mayor incidencia para explicar su organización funcional y su oferta informativa. El presente artículo se centra en cuales son las tareas y responsabilidades que ejercen los trabajadores y colaboradores de las radios de proximidad catalanas. Se trata de las figuras profesionales que hacen posible el funcionamiento y la programación de estos medios, de forma que la vertiente humana de la comunicación es un elemento transversal. La investigación define las funciones de una y otra figura profesional, hecho que implica, entre otros aspectos, desglosar su relación con el medio. Los trabajadores y colaboradores ejercen tareas y asumen responsabilidades que pueden coincidir o que están diferenciadas, y que se vinculan con el puesto que ocupan dentro del organigrama de cada radio. Para conocer esta realidad se ha cruzado la metodología cuantitativa de la encuesta con la cualitativa de las entrevistas en profundidad. Para la investigación se han acotado los límites mediáticos y territoriales en las emisoras de radio de proximidad catalanas y se ha definido su situación laboral, centrándola en las figuras de los trabajadores y de los colaboradores.
Weighing Potential Candidates for Kidney Transplant: The Ethics of Exclusion for Elevated Body Mass Index
Authors: Macauley Robert
Published: December 2012

With more than 80 000 patients in the United States on waiting lists for a kidney — and more than 100 000 patients beginning treatment for end-stage renal disease each year—transplant programs must evaluate potential recipients in a fair and efficient manner. To this end, certain “absolute exclusion criteria” have been proposed to screen out candidates who will not sufficiently benefit from transplant. Some programs use elevated body mass index as such an exclusion criterion, given that some studies have reported an association with increased risk of delayed graft function and acute rejection, longer hospitalization, and decreased overall graft survival. Upon further examination, however, elevated body mass index turns out to be a poor evaluative criterion for transplant candidates, as it is only variably associated with negative transplant outcomes. Moreover, use of a body mass index cutoff is potentially discriminatory and may mask underlying prejudice against persons of size.
Eucalyptus expressa (Myrtaceae): a distinctive new stringybark from the sandstone ranges north-west of Sydney, New South Wales
Authors: Bell Stephen A.J. , Nicolle Dean
Published: December 2012

Eucalyptus expressa, a new tall forest tree species from sheltered gullies in the sandstone ranges north-west of Sydney, is described and illustrated, and notes on affinities, distribution, ecology and conservation status provided. A key to the stringybarks (E. ser. Pachyphloius) of the Sydney Basin is also presented
Efficacy of lenalidomide in POEMS syndrome: A retrospective study of 20 patients
Authors: Royer Bruno , Merlusca Lavinia , Abraham Julie , Musset Lucile , Haroche Julien , Choquet Sylvain , Leleu Xavier , Sebban Catherine , Decaux Olivier , Galicier Lionel , Roussel Muriel , Recher Christian , Banos Anne , Guichard Isabelle , Brisseau Jean‐Marie , Godmer Pascal , Hermine Olivier , Deplanque Gaël , Facon Thierry , Asli Bouchra , Leblond Véronique , fermand Jean‐Paul , Marolleau Jean Pierre , Jaccard Arnaud
Published: December 2012

POEMS syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by polyneuropathy, monoclonal gammopathy, multiorgan involvement, and elevated vascular endothelial growth factor levels. Localized bone lesions require irradiation, whereas young patients with disseminated disease receive intensive treatment with stem cell support. Treatment of older and non responding patients is not yet standardized. We report the use of a combination of lenalidomide and dexamethasone in 20 patients with POEMS syndrome. Four patients were newly diagnosed, and 16 had relapsed or progressed after treatment. All but one of the patients responded: clinical improvements were noted in neuropathies (16/20) organomegaly (13/13), peripheral edema (14/15), and pulmonary hypertension (5/5). At least a very good partial response was noted in 68% of patients, with partial responses in 26%. Serum VEGF levels fell markedly in all 17 patients with available values. Twelve patients had 18‐FDG‐PET/CT at diagnosis (11 with positive findings), and nine patients during follow‐up. The number of lesions fell markedly in five cases and remained stable in two cases, while two patients became negative. During a median follow‐up of 22 months, four patients relapsed. Toxicity, predominantly hematological, was mild and manageable. Lenalidomide thus appears to be effective in POEMS syndrome, inducing high rate of clinical and biological responses. Am. J. Hematol. 88:207–212, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of Snake‐Directed Antipredator Behavior by Wild White‐faced Capuchin Monkeys: I. Snake‐Species Discrimination
Authors: MENO WHITNEY , COSS RICHARD G. , PERRY SUSAN
Published: December 2012

Young animals are known to direct alarm calls at a wider range of species than adults. Our field study examined age‐related differences in the snake‐directed antipredator behavior of infant, juvenile, and adult white‐faced capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus) in terms of alarm calling, looking behavior, and aggressive behavior. In the first experiment, we exposed infant and juvenile white‐faced capuchins to realistic‐looking inflatable models of their two snake predators, the boa constrictior (Boa constrictor) and neotropical rattlesnake (Crotalus durissus) and a white airplane as a novel control. In the second experiment, infants, juveniles, and adults were presented photographic models of a coiled boa constrictor, rattlesnake, indigo snake (Drymarchon corais), a noncapuchin predator, and a white snake‐like model. We found that antipredator behavior changed during the immature stage. Infants as young as 4 months old were able to recognize snakes and display antipredator behavior, but engaged in less snake‐model discrimination than juveniles. All age classes exhibited a lower response to the white snake‐like model, indicating that the absence of color and snake‐scale patterns affected snake recognition. Infants also showed a higher level of vigilance after snake‐model detection as exhibited by a higher proportion of time spent looking and head cocking at the models. Aggressive antipredator behavior was found in all age classes, but was more prevalent in juveniles and adults than infants. This study adds to the knowledge of development of antipredator behavior in primates by showing that, although alarm calling behavior and predator recognition appear at a very young age in capuchins, snake‐species discrimination does not become apparent until the juvenile stage. Am. J. Primatol. 75:281‐291, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Latent Variables Affecting Behavioral Response to the Human Intruder Test in Infant Rhesus Macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: GOTTLIEB DANIEL H. , CAPITANIO JOHN P.
Published: December 2012

The human intruder test is a testing paradigm designed to measure rhesus macaques’ behavioral responses to a stressful and threatening situation. In the test, an unfamiliar human positions him/herself in various threatening positions relative to a caged macaque. This paradigm has been utilized for over 20 years to measure a variety of behavioral constructs, including fear and anxiety, behavioral inhibition, emotionality, and aggression. To date, there have been no attempts to evaluate comprehensively the structure of the behavioral responses to the test. Our first goal was to identify the underlying latent factors affecting the different responses among subjects, and our second goal was to determine if rhesus reared in different environments respond differently in this testing paradigm. To accomplish this, we first performed exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on the behavioral responses of 3‐ to 4‐month‐old rhesus macaques, utilizing data from over 2,000 separate tests conducted between 2001–2007. Using the resulting model, we then tested to see whether early rearing experience affected responses in the test. Our first analyses suggested that most of the variation in infant behavioral responses to the human intruder test could be explained by four latent factors: “activity,” “emotionality,” “aggression,” and “displacement.” Our second analyses revealed a significant effect of rearing condition for each factor score (P < 0.001); most notable socially reared animals had the lowest activity score (P < 0.001), indoor mother‐reared animals had the highest displacement score (P < 0.001), and nursery‐reared animals had the highest emotionality (P < 0.001) and lowest aggression scores (P < 0.001). These results demonstrate that this standardized testing paradigm reveals multiple patterns of response, which are influenced by an animal's rearing history. Am. J. Primatol. 75:314‐323, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.