bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social factors associated with mental disorders with risk situations in the primary health care
Authors: Drummond Bruno Lopes da Costa , Radicchi Antônio Leite Alves , Gontijo Eliane Costa Dias
Published: November 2014

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate patients with mental disorders, with or without risk situations, treated at primary health care (PHC) units. METHOD: A cross-sectional study was performed in samples of 240 patients living in a region of high social vulnerability in Belo Horizonte. The response variable was mental disorders with risk situations (MD-WR). The explanatory variables were gender, age, marital status, literacy, education, employment, social benefits and per capita income. Instruments from Berkman and Syme (social network), Sherbourne and Stewart (social support), adapted for Brazil, were applied. Pearson's χ2 test and binary logistic regression were used for the adjusted analyzes. RESULTS: The factors associated with MD-WR were being male (OR = 3.62; 95%CI 1.84 - 7.09); having "up to one confident relative" only (OR = 2.53; 95%CI 1.18 - 5.42); being "not able to return home" when away from their living area (OR = 3.49; 95%CI 1.40 - 8.71). The reduction in the affective dimension of the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) scale increases the chance of MD-WR. Conclusion: The availability and access to social and support networks are lower for patients with MD-WR and need to be strengthened to promote autonomy and citizenship among its users. We conclude that there is the need of public policies to increase the availability of social networking equipment and social support projects, encouraging the participation of families.
New pantolestids (Mammalia, Eutheria) from the late Paleocene (late middle Tiffanian) Roche Percée local fauna, southeastern Saskatchewan, Canada
Authors: Rankin Brian D.
Published: November 2014

The Pantolestidae are an extinct family of mammals known principally from the early Paleocene to late Oligocene (from approximately 64 to 30 million years ago) of North America and Europe. Although never particularly abundant, pantolestids are relatively well represented in the Eocene and Oligocene, with several taxa known from exceptionally well-preserved skulls and postcranial material. The early evolutionary history of the group, however, similar to that of many contemporaneous mammals, remains comparatively poorly known. The current study reports on several previously undescribed pantolestids from the early late Paleocene (late middle Tiffanian, Ti4) Roche Percée local fauna, Ravenscrag Formation, of southeastern Saskatchewan, Canada.Aatotomus placochtonn. gen. n. sp. resembles the enigmatic pantolestidPaleotomusin having sectorial premolars with well-developed crests and tall, sharp molar trigonids, but differs principally in possessing narrow molar talonids.Besseocetor krausein. sp. shares numerous similarities withB. thomsoniandB. septentrionalisbut differs in being considerably smaller and less robust.Palaeosinopa reclusumn. sp., the oldest species ofPalaeosinopayet discovered, reveals a unique combination of primitive and derived pantolestid features, and supports previous suggestions of a close evolutionary relationship betweenPalaeosinopaandBessoecetor. The new taxa document an unusually high diversity of pantolestids in the Tiffanian of western Canada and provide important new knowledge to the evolutionary history of this group during the Paleocene.
Annual dynamics of wild bee densities: attractiveness and productivity effects of oilseed rape
Authors: Riedinger Verena , Mitesser Oliver , Hovestadt Thomas , Steffan-Dewenter Ingolf , Holzschuh Andrea
Published: November 2014

Mass‐flowering crops may affect long‐term population dynamics, but effects on pollinators have never been studied across several years. We monitored wild bees in oilseed rape fields in 16 landscapes in Germany in two consecutive years. Effects on bee densities of landscape oilseed rape cover in the years of monitoring and in the previous years were evaluated with landscape data from three consecutive years. We fit empirical data to a mechanistic model to provide estimates for oilseed rape attractiveness and its effect on bee productivity in comparison to the rest of the landscape, and we evaluated consequences for pollinator densities in consecutive years. Our results show that high oilseed rape cover in the previous year enhances current densities of wild bees (except for bumble bees). Moreover, we show a strong attractiveness of and dilution on (i.e., decreasing bee densities with increasing landscape oilseed rape cover) oilseed rape for bees during flowering in the current year, modifying the effect of the previous year's oilseed rape cover in the case of wild bees (excluding Bombus). As long as other factors such as nesting sites or natural enemies do not limit bee reproduction, our findings suggest long‐term positive effects of mass‐flowering crops on bee populations, at least for non‐Bombus generalists, which possibly help to maintain crop pollination services even when crop area increases. Similar effects are conceivable for other organisms providing ecosystem services in annual crops and should be considered in future studies.
Towards culturally sensitive public health interventions in Nepal
Authors: Sharma Sudesh Raj , Karki Neetu
Published: November 2014

Culture plays a key role in influencing health related behaviours. However, cultural issues are often neglected in public health interventions. The viewpoint attempts to highlight key prerequisites for developing culturally sensitive public health interventions in the context of Nepal. Qualitative research should be promoted to understand the critical link of cultural issues with health problems and tailor interventions accordingly. Making key elements of Behaviour Change Communication (source, message, and channel) process culturally appropriate can render positive effects for health interventions. On an operational level, involving an anthropologist can act as a bridge between community and health workers throughout the implementation process; community organization and empowerment strategies within interventions have proven to be beneficial and sustainable in terms of health promotion and disease prevention. Focusing on developing culturally competent health workforce can produce a synergistic effect in health promotion efforts. To conclude, culturally sensitive interventions should not only be evidence based but empowering and engaging community.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hprospect.v13i1.11104 Health Prospect Vol.13(1) 2014: 1-3
Exploring Opportunities for Public Health Graduates in Government Health System in Nepal
Authors: Khanal Pratik , Mishra Shiva Raj
Published: November 2014

Nepal has a history of nearly three decades of public health education. Public health graduates are working under different capacities at governmental and non governmental organizations. If the health system can utilize this human resource, this will contribute to health system strengthening in Nepal. The objective of this paper is to explore the opportunities for public health graduates in government health system in Nepal. MoHP needs to expand opportunities for public health graduates in different areas within government system. Recruiting district level supervisors from bachelor in public health background would enhance performance because of their knowledge and skills on areas like district health management, research, public health administration, health economics and medical sociology as compared to those with certificate level education on General medicine currently being recruited. In the meantime this will create hundreds of job placements in district health system for job aspirants. Role of community health inspectors needs to be made clear and sanctioned at the district and peripheral level. Also, there is necessity of environmental health technicians, health educators, health economists and other types of health personnel. It is equally necessary to establish environmental health, occupational health, urban health, health care waste management, mental health and oral health units at district level. The other areas where public health graduates can work as health officers are District Development committee, Municipality, Women and Child office and Water and Sanitation Division Office. The public health community including its professional organization Nepal Public Health Association should advocate for the professional rights and contribute to create opportunities for public health graduates.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hprospect.v13i1.11292 Health Prospect Vol.13(1) 2014: 7-11
Promoting medical student research in Nepal
Authors: Shanker PR
Published: November 2014

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v2i1.11388 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol. 2 (1): 1-3
A Study on Perception and knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among school students and significance of educational intervention
Authors: Dhungel BA , Chaudhary M , Singh S
Published: November 2014

Background and objectives: HIV/AIDS is a burning crisis worldwide. Cure of HIV is not yet possible so prevention is of prime importance in control of HIV. Education plays an important role in bringing awareness. This study is planned to find the existing knowledge and significance of educational intervention. Material and Methods: This study was an experimental design in which same group of subjects (students to class 9 and 10) of selected schools in Imadol, served as control and experimental group. Participants’ perception and knowledge about various aspects of HIV/AIDS were studied by noting their agreement with a set of 65 statements (questionnaire) using a modified Likert-type scale. The data was entered in SPSS. A p value less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. Result: In this study, educational intervention has proved statistically significant in public school (p value 0.02). Among different sub groups total median score for knowledge about HIV/AIDS and idea about vulnerable group was also statistically significant ( p value 0.01). Conclusion: Educational intervention does play significant role in strengthening knowledge and perception regarding issues related to HIV/AIDS.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jmcjms.v2i1.11418 Janaki Medical College Journal of Medical Sciences (2014) Vol. 2 (1):44-51
What steps are necessary to create written or web-based selected-response assessments?
Authors: Morgan Matt , Dory Valerie , Lubarsky Stuart , Walsh Kieran
Published: November 2014

Before we work out what constitutes an assessment’s value for a given cost in medical education, we must first outline the steps necessary to create an assessment, and then assign a cost to each step. In this study we undertook the first phase of this process: we sought to work out all the steps necessary to create written selected-response assessments. First, the lead author created an initial list of potential steps for developing written assessments. This was then distributed to the other three authors. These authors independently added further steps to the list. The lead author incorporated the contributions of these others and created a second draft. This process was repeated until consensus was achieved amongst the study’s authors. Next, the list was shared by means of an online questionnaire with 100 healthcare professionals with experience in medical education. The results of the authors’ and healthcare professionals’ thoughts and feedback on the steps, needed to create written assessment, are outlined below in full. We outlined the steps that are necessary to create written or web-based selected-response assessments.
Review of Tolvaptan’s Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties and Drug Interactions
Authors: Bhatt Purav , McNeely Elizabeth , Lin Tess , Adams Kirkwood , Patterson J.
Published: November 2014

Tolvaptan is an arginine vasopressin (AVP) antagonist that acts to increase excretion of free water (aquaresis) in patients without introducing electrolyte abnormalities or worsening renal function. It works via blockade of vasopressin-2 receptors at the renal collecting duct. Since the approval of tolvaptan for the treatment of hypervolemic and euvolemic hyponatremia in 2009, new studies have been reported to better characterize its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of tolvaptan. This paper is a review of both these clinical studies, as well as previous literature, in order to help guide appropriate clinical use of tolvaptan in patients. With appropriate monitoring of serum sodium, tolvaptan may be safely dose escalated from 15 mg once daily to a maximum effective dose of 60 mg once daily for multiple days, to achieve optimal aqauretic effects. In terms of drug interactions, co-administration of moderate to potent CYP3A4 inhibitors and inducers should be avoided. Tolvaptan should also be co-administered with caution and proper monitoring in the presence of P-glycoprotein substrate and strong inhibitors. Co-administration of tolvaptan with diuretic therapy did not appear to alter the aquaretic effect of tolvaptan; and was shown to be safe and well tolerated.
Re-emergence of susceptibility to conventional first line drugs in Salmonella isolates from enteric fever patients in Nepal
Authors: Chand Hari Jung , Rijal Komal Raj , Neupane Biswas , Sharma Vijay Kumar , Jha Bharat
Published: November 2014

Introduction: Enteric fever is endemic in Nepal and poses a significant public health burden. The first-line drugs ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and cotrimoxazole have not been part of empirical therapy for two decades due to the development of multidrug-resistant Salmonella strains. The objective of this study was to determine the antibiogram pattern of Salmonella serovars isolated from the blood of clinically suspected enteric fever patients. Methodology: A cross sectional study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital in Lalitpur, Nepal, between July 2011 and February 2012. Standard microbiological procedures were followed during collection and processing of blood samples, isolation and identification of Salmonella serotypes. The antimicrobial sensitivity of ampicillin, chloramphenicol, cotrimoxazole, nalidixic acid, and ciprofloxacin was determined using a modified Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method as per the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Results: Out of 86 Salmonella isolates, 56 (65.1%) were Salmonella Typhi and 30 (34.9%) were Salmonella Paratyphi A. Salmonella Typhi were 100% sensitive to chloramphenicol, cotrimoxazole, and ciprofloxacin and 98.2% sensitive to ampicillin. Similarly, Salmonella Paratyphi A isolates were 100% sensitive to ampicillin and cotrimoxazole and 96.7% sensitive to chloramphenicol and ciprofloxacin. More than 90.0% of isolates were nalidixic acid resistant and none of the Salmonella isolates were multi-drug resistant. Conclusions: This study revealed the increasing frequency of nalidixic acid-resistant Salmonella isolates, indicating the possibility of fluoroquinolone resistance in near future. Furthermore, re-emergence of susceptibility to conventional first-line drugs ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and cotrimoxazole supports the possibility of using these drugs in empirical therapy.
Abia State HIV epidemic and response: challenges and prospects
Authors: Onyeonoro Ugochukwu Uchenna , Emelumadu Obiageli Fidelia , Nwamoh Uche Ngozi , Ukegbu Andrew Ugwunna , Okafor Godwin OC
Published: November 2014

Since the first seroprevalence survey in 1999, the HIV prevalence in Abia State has increased from 1.8% to 7.3% in 2010. The state is currently experiencing a generalized epidemic, with most transmission occurring through heterosexual low-risk sex. Drivers of the epidemic include low knowledge of HIV prevention, low risk perception, predominantly male factor-driven risky sexual behavior, and low condom use. This study reviewed the state HIV epidemic trend in relation to response, sought to identify the gaps between the epidemic and response, and recommended measures to strengthen the state response.
Lectotypification of Kniphofia pauciflora Baker (Asphodelaceae: Asphodeloideae)
Authors: Baijnath Himansu , Ramdhani Syd
Published: November 2014

Background: Problems amongst the syntypes and duplicates were noted for the critically endangered Kniphofia pauciflora Baker.Objective: To resolve the typification of K. pauciflora.Method: Literature and specimens (including type material) were examined from relevant herbaria.Results: Lectotypification was necessary in this case. The lectotype designated was Wood 1096 (K) from ‘Natal, Claremont flat’ [KwaZulu-Natal, Clairmont flat]. This was undertaken to specify a single type specimen and to clarify the status of the duplicates. Also included is an account of the last remaining population of K. pauciflora at the Clairwood Racecourse, Durban, South Africa.Conclusion: The lectotype was designated as Wood 1096 (K).
Withaferin A Inhibits STAT3 and Induces Tumor Cell Death in Neuroblastoma and Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Yco Lisette P. , Mocz Gabor , Opoku-Ansah John , Bachmann André S.
Published: November 2014

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an oncogenic transcription factor that has been implicated in many human cancers and has emerged as an ideal target for cancer therapy. Withaferin A (WFA) is a natural product with promising antiproliferative properties through its association with a number of molecular targets including STAT3. However, the effect of WFA in pediatric neuroblastoma (NB) and its interaction with STAT3 have not been reported. In this study, we found that WFA effectively induces dose-dependent cell death in high-risk and drug-resistant NB as well as multiple myeloma (MM) tumor cells, prevented interleukin-6 (IL-6)–mediated and persistently activated STAT3 phosphorylation at Y705, and blocked the transcriptional activity of STAT3. We further provide computational models that show that WFA binds STAT3 near the Y705 phosphotyrosine residue of the STAT3 Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, suggesting that WFA prevents STAT3 dimer formation similar to BP-1-102, a well-established STAT3 inhibitor. Our findings propose that the antitumor activity of WFA is mediated at least in part through inhibition of STAT3 and provide a rationale for further drug development and clinical use in NB and MM.
Conducting Retrospective Ontological Clinical Trials in ICD-9-CM in the Age of ICD-10-CM
Authors: Venepalli Neeta K. , Shergill Ardaman , Dorestani Parvaneh , Boyd Andrew D.
Published: November 2014

Objective

To quantify the impact of International Classification of Disease 10th Revision Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) transition in cancer clinical trials by comparing coding accuracy and data discontinuity in backward ICD-10-CM to ICD-9-CM mapping via two tools, and to develop a standard ICD-9-CM and ICD-10-CM bridging methodology for retrospective analyses.

Background

While the transition to ICD-10-CM has been delayed until October 2015, its impact on cancer-related studies utilizing ICD-9-CM diagnoses has been inadequately explored.

Materials and Methods

Three high impact journals with broad national and international readerships were reviewed for cancer-related studies utilizing ICD-9-CM diagnoses codes in study design, methods, or results. Forward ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM mapping was performing using a translational methodology with the Motif web portal ICD-9-CM conversion tool. Backward mapping from ICD-10-CM to ICD-9-CM was performed using both Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) general equivalence mappings (GEMs) files and the Motif web portal tool. Generated ICD-9-CM codes were compared with the original ICD-9-CM codes to assess data accuracy and discontinuity.

Results

While both methods yielded additional ICD-9-CM codes, the CMS GEMs method provided incomplete coverage with 16 of the original ICD-9-CM codes missing, whereas the Motif web portal method provided complete coverage. Of these 16 codes, 12 ICD-9-CM codes were present in 2010 Illinois Medicaid data, and accounted for 0.52% of patient encounters and 0.35% of total Medicaid reimbursements. Extraneous ICD-9-CM codes from both methods (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services general equivalent mapping [CMS GEMs, n = 161; Motif web portal, n = 246]) in excess of original ICD-9-CM codes accounted for 2.1% and 2.3% of total patient encounters and 3.4% and 4.1% of total Medicaid reimbursements from the 2010 Illinois Medicare database.

Discussion

Longitudinal data analyses post-ICD-10-CM transition will require backward ICD-10-CM to ICD-9-CM coding, and data comparison for accuracy. Researchers must be aware that all methods for backward coding are not comparable in yielding original ICD-9-CM codes.

Conclusions

The mandated delay is an opportunity for organizations to better understand areas of financial risk with regards to data management via backward coding. Our methodology is relevant for all healthcare-related coding data, and can be replicated by organizations as a strategy to mitigate financial risk.
Atherosclerosis as a Possible Extrahepatic Manifestation of Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Ishizaka Nobukazu , Ishizaka Yuko , Yamkado Minoru
Published: November 2014

Chronic infection and associated inflammation may play a role in various unfavorable pathologic conditions, including atherosclerosis. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is thought to be associated with a higher prevalence of atherosclerotic vascular changes in the coronary artery, cerebrovascular artery, and carotid artery; however, little is known about the precise mechanisms by which HCV enhances atherogenic processes. Furthermore, some studies have found no association, or even an inverse association, between HCV infection and atherosclerotic vascular changes or cardiovascular events. Differences in data regarding the mode of association may be because of variations in sample size, target population, and study design. Nevertheless, physicians should be aware of cardiovascular disorders as a possible comorbidity – owing to their considerable consequences – among patients with chronic HCV infection.
Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species from Silicon Nanowires
Authors: Leonard Stephen S. , Cohen Guy M. , Kenyon Allison J. , Schwegler-Berry Diane , Fix Natalie R. , Bangsaruntip Sarunya , Roberts Jenny R.
Published: November 2014

Processing and synthesis of purified nanomaterials of diverse composition, size, and properties is an evolving process. Studies have demonstrated that some nanomaterials have potential toxic effects and have led to toxicity research focusing on nanotoxicology. About two million workers will be employed in the field of nanotechnology over the next 10 years. The unknown effects of nanomaterials create a need for research and development of techniques to identify possible toxicity. Through a cooperative effort between National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and IBM to address possible occupational exposures, silicon-based nanowires (SiNWs) were obtained for our study. These SiNWs are anisotropic filamentary crystals of silicon, synthesized by the vapor-liquid-solid method and used in bio-sensors, gas sensors, and field effect transistors. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be generated when organisms are exposed to a material causing cellular responses, such as lipid peroxidation, H2O2 production, and DNA damage. SiNWs were assessed using three different in vitro environments (H2O2, RAW 264.7 cells, and rat alveolar macrophages) for ROS generation and possible toxicity identification. We used electron spin resonance, analysis of lipid peroxidation, measurement of H2O2 production, and the comet assay to assess generation of ROS from SiNW and define possible mechanisms. Our results demonstrate that SiNWs do not appear to be significant generators of free radicals.
Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Tick-Borne Disease Cases among Humans and Canines in Illinois (2000-2009)
Authors: Herrmann John A. , Dahm Nicole M. , Ruiz Marilyn O. , Brown William M.
Published: November 2014

Four tick-borne diseases (TBDs), anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease (LD), and Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), are endemic in Illinois. The prevalence of human and canine cases of all four TBDs rose over the study period with significant differences in geographic distribution within the state. Among human cases, there were associations between cases of RMSF and LD and total forest cover, seasonal precipitation, average mean temperature, racial-ethnic groups, and gender. Estimated annual prevalence of three canine TBDs exceeded human TBD cases significantly in each region. There was concordance in the number of human and canine cases by county of residence, in annual prevalence trends, and in time of year at which they were diagnosed. To account for multiple environmental risk factors and to facilitate early diagnosis of cases, integrated surveillance systems must be developed and communication between veterinarians, physicians, and public health agencies must be improved.
Cellular Responses to Cytosolic Double-stranded RNA–-The Role of the Inflammasome
Authors: Idris Adi
Published: November 2014

Sensing the presence of a pathogen is an evolutionarily ancient trait, especially for cells of the innate immune system. The innate immune response against pathogens, such as viruses, begins with recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by specific pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs). Cytosolic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is emerging as a critical PAMP in the detection of viral infections. This recognition results in the production of antiviral and proinflammatory cytokines and, often, the death of the virus-infected cell. This review focuses on the current developments in the role of inflammasomes in response to the presence of cytosolic dsRNA in host cells. More importantly, it highlights important unanswered questions that if addressed will help us better understand the ways in which host cells respond to viral infection, in particular RNA viruses.
A Pilot Study on the Use of Lecture Tools to Enhance the Teaching of Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Authors: Swanson Hollie I. , Piascik Michael T.
Published: November 2014

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are essential topics contained within the medical curriculum and are highly amenable to active-learning approaches. In this pilot study, we incorporated Lecture Tools, a cloud-based audience response system, into a lecture-based graduate course. Lecture Tools was used by both the instructors and the students during peer presentations. Advantages noted by the instructors include the versatility of the questions that can be presented and the ease with which student assessment can be conducted. Student surveys revealed that, overall, the use of Lecture Tools enhanced student attentiveness and engagement and facilitated student participation in questions and answers. Some disadvantages were observed and include the increased time required for lecture presentations. In summary, our results indicate that Lecture Tools can be effectively used in a medical education setting.
Damage to the Optic Chiasm in Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein–Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis Mice
Authors: Herrera Sheryl L. , Palmer Vanessa L. , Whittaker Heather , Smith Blair Cardigan , Kim Annie , Schellenberg Angela E. , Thiessen Jonathan D. , Buist Richard , Del Bigio Marc R. , Martin Melanie
Published: November 2014

Optic chiasm lesions in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)–experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) mice were characterized using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and validated using electron microscopy (EM). MR images were collected from 3 days after induction to remission, approximately 20 days after induction. Hematoxylin and eosin, solochrome cyanin–stained sections, and EM images were obtained from the optic chiasms of some mice approximately 4 days after disease onset when their scores were thought to be the highest. T2-weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient map hyperintensities corresponded to abnormalities in the optic chiasms of EAE mice. Mixed inflammation was concentrated at the lateral surface. Degeneration of oligodendrocytes, myelin, and early axonal damage were also apparent. A marked increase in chiasm thickness was observed. T2-weighted and diffusion-weighted MRI can detect abnormalities in the optic chiasms of MOG-EAE mice. MRI is an important method in the study of this model toward understanding optic neuritis.
Technological Innovation Projects: Proposal for an Integrative Model Between Project Management and Knowledge Management in a Customer-Supplier Perspective
Authors: Tavares Edval da Silva , Pessôa Marcelo Schneck de Paula
Published: November 2014

In face of strong competition, companies in Brazil have increased their financial investments in automation, offering new products and services and reducing operating costs. These companies are focusing their efforts on core competencies and, therefore, they often lack the internal expertise to implement new projects, especially those that bring technological innovation. For this reason, we use the processes of outsourcing or subcontracting to help implement such projects. The unit of analysis in this study is the project and the object of the study to analyze the process of knowledge transfer from a provider to a customer during the duration of the project, which involves new technologies. The main motivation of this work is to address the acquisition and retention of new knowledge related to projects designed for business customers. We have developed a study of three cases of multiple financial firms that buy new technologies and two suppliers of information technology. As a practical result, a management model of knowledge transfer and retention of knowledge in client companies is proposed and incorporated into project management.
Values and sense of symbolic immortality among non-religious adolescents in Poland
Authors: Jaśkiewicz Michał
Published: November 2014

Background

The aim of the study was to determine the values (Schwartz’s ten basic values) and sense of symbolic immortality among non-religious adolescents.

Participants and procedure

Participants were recruited from secondary schools in Gdansk and Gdynia.

Results

The results showed that non-religious adolescents achieved higher results in the natural mode, and lower in biological-creative and religious modes. They also scored higher on universalism and self-direction subscales of Schwartz’s ten basic values. The results are discussed in the light of humanistic personal ideology and terror management theory.

Conclusions

The cultural worldview that protects non-religious adolescents against death anxiety seems to be more rooted in humanistic and individualistic values.
Familial risk of dyslexia in Polish first grade pupils based on the ARHQ-PL Questionnaire
Authors: Krasowicz-Kupis Grażyna , Bogdanowicz Katarzyna M. , Wiejak Katarzyna
Published: November 2014

Background

From the perspective of dyslexia, familial risk is the issue most researched worldwide. The familial risk has never been studied in Poland. Results of many studies conducted in Europe, the U.S. and Australia show that children who have a close family member with dyslexia are at greater risk of this disorder than children in the control groups. This conclusion is backed up by the results of research on the genetic aetiology of learning disorders. In the presented study on Polish 1st grade students, the Adult Reading History Questionnaire by Lefly and Pennington (2000) in the Polish adaptation (ARHQ-PL) was used. The connections between the familial risk and the level of reading, spelling, phonological abilities and other cognitive functions were analysed.

Participants and procedure

The study covered 513 children, including their parents, from randomly selected primary schools in the Mazowieckie province. According to the ARHQ-PL assumptions, the children’s parents were divided into groups taking into account the familial risk level. Children were individually assessed for reading, spelling, phonological abilities, naming speed, phonological memory, vocabulary level and selective attention.

Inter-group comparisons were performed based on the analysed variables for the groups of children whose parents had critical results in the ARHQ. The comparisons identified high risk (or lack of risk), as per sex, age, education level and SES (socio-economical status).

Results

The results show that there is a significant connection between risk group membership and the level of reading and of the majority of assessed phonological abilities. More significant relationships were determined for the familial risk of dyslexia observed for mothers.

Conclusions

The study confirms the diagnostic accuracy of the familial dyslexia risk ratio determined using the ARHQ-PL questionnaire for reading and for the majority of the phonological abilities closely connected with reading. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the prognostic accuracy of diagnosing developmental dyslexia.
Pharmacological therapy of osteoporosis with bisphosphonates – for whom, what kind, and for how long?
Authors: Marcinowska-Suchowierska Ewa , Walicka Magdalena
Published: November 2014

Bisfosfoniany (BS) od wielu lat odgrywają istotną rolę w leczeniu osteoporozy pomenopauzalnej. W ostatnim czasie faktem stały się również wskazania do ich stosowania u mężczyzn oraz w osteoporozie indukowanej podawaniem glikokortykosteroidów i w niektórych innych osteoporozach wtórnych. Opracowanie doustnych preparatów BS podawanych raz na tydzień lub raz w miesiącu pozwoliło zmniejszyć częstość objawów niepożądanych ze strony przewodu pokarmowego. Dostępność preparatów dożylnych BS umożliwiła wyeliminowanie objawów niepożądanych dotyczących przewodu pokarmowego, jednak kosztem częstszych reakcji ostrej fazy. Obserwacje z ostatnich lat wskazały na związek pomiędzy stosowaniem bisfosfonianów a występowaniem takich powikłań, jak martwica żuchwy czy złamania podkrętarzowe, co wywołało zainteresowanie bezpieczeństwem ich powszechnego i długoterminowego stosowania. W artykule podsumowano aktualny stan wiedzy o znaczeniu BS w leczeniu osteoporozy oraz działaniach niepożądanych w czasie ich wieloletniego stosowania, co ułatwi optymalizację czasu leczenia BS oraz podjęcie decyzji o ewentualnej przerwie w ich podaży u danego pacjenta.
Certolizumab pegol in the treatment of spondyloarthritis
Authors: Korkosz Mariusz
Published: November 2014

Spondyloartropatie (SpA) stanowią drugą co do częstości występowania, po układowych chorobach tkanki łącznej, grupę zapalnych chorób reumatycznych i częstą przyczynę niepełnosprawności narządu ruchu. Kluczową rolę w inicjowaniu i podtrzymywaniu przewlekłego zapalenia w SpA odgrywa czynnik martwicy nowotworów α
 (tumor necrosis factor α – TNF-α), dlatego w przypadku utrzymującej się wysokiej aktywności SpA, pomimo leczenia standardowego niesteroidowymi lekami przeciwzapalnymi i/lub syntetycznymi lekami modyfikującymi przebieg choroby, skuteczne jest leczenie inhibitorami TNF. Certolizumab pegol jest jednym z inhibitorów TNF, który okazał się skuteczny w leczeniu aktywnych postaci SpA. W pracy przedstawiono podstawowe dane o tym leku oraz wyniki badań będących podstawą rejestracji certolizumabu w SpA.
La supresión de la hora de tutoría en Educación Secundaria. Un estudio exploratorio sobre las creencias de los docentes.
Authors: Muñoz Hueso Ana Carmen , Pastor Gil Lorena
Published: November 2014

La supresión de la hora de tutoría en algunas Comunidades Autónomas en las etapas de Educación Secundaria Obligatoria y Bachillerato ha creado un gran revuelo en los centros educativos dada la importancia de la acción tutorial como pilar fundamental para conseguir el desarrollo integral de los alumnos. Esta eliminación ha suscitado un debate en torno a la figura del tutor y las consecuencias en su eficacia de actuación. En este pequeño sondeo se demuestra cómo los docentes, de dos centros de la Comunidad de Madrid, manifiestan estar formados para ejercer la multitud de funciones que implica ser tutor, muestran estar en contra de la supresión de la hora de tutoría en Secundaria, abogan por la incorporación de dicha hora en Educación Primaria, y consideran como consecuencia fundamental una atención menos personalizada a los alumnos. En definitiva, una respuesta educativa menos eficaz.
The Paxton Boys and the Moravians: Terror and Faith in the Pennsylvania Backcountry
Authors: Gordon Scott Paul
Published: November 2014

The diaries and letters written by Moravian ministers as the Paxton Boys bloodied Lancaster County in late 1763 challenge recent accounts of these events that have become an obligatory stop for historians studying the changing relations between Indians and whites in colonial America. These sources complicate the standard chronology in which physical violence turns to political pressure (on which, many historians suggest, the Paxton Boys were focused all along); they reveal that the killings were meant as a challenge to Edward Shippen and Lancaster’s elite, not provincial elites in Philadelphia; and they reveal that, while racial prejudice influenced the groups that the Paxton Boys considered enemies, their category of enemy itself was not limited by race. The Paxton Boys targeted whites, English Quakers and German Moravians, when they believed that these groups jeopardized the security of the backcountry. As riders cursing “God damn you, Moravians” passed through the village of Lititz, many feared that the German Moravians might be the next group to disappear from Pennsylvania’s landscape.
Thismia megalongensis (Thismiaceae), A new species of Thismia from New South Wales
Authors: Hunt Colin Andrew , Steenbeeke Greg , Merckx Vincent
Published: November 2014

A new species of Thismia from New South Wales. A new species, Thismia megalongensis, is described, illustrated and compared with other Australian species. A key to Australian species of Thismia is included. Habitat details, the conservation status, and phylogenetic affinities of the new species are discussed.
Has coarse ocean resolution biased simulations of transient climate sensitivity?
Authors: Winton Michael , Anderson Whit G. , Delworth Thomas L. , Griffies Stephen M. , Hurlin William J. , Rosati Anthony
Published: November 2014

We investigate the influence of ocean component resolution on simulation of climate sensitivity using variants of the GFDL CM2.5 climate model incorporating eddy‐resolving (1/10°) and eddy‐parameterizing (1°) ocean resolutions. Two parameterization configurations of the coarse‐resolution model are used yielding a three‐model suite with significant variation in the transient climate response (TCR). The variation of TCR in this suite and in an enhanced group of 10 GFDL models is found to be strongly associated with the control climate Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) magnitude and its decline under forcing. We find that it is the AMOC behavior rather than resolution per se that accounts for most of the TCR differences. A smaller difference in TCR stems from the eddy‐resolving model having more Southern Ocean surface warming than the coarse models.
Sensitivity of hurricane forecasts to cumulus parameterizations in the HWRF model
Authors: Biswas Mrinal K. , Bernardet Ligia , Dudhia Jimy
Published: November 2014

The Developmental Testbed Center used the Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) system to test the sensitivity of tropical cyclone track and intensity forecasts to different convective schemes. A control configuration that employed the HWRF Simplified Arakawa Scheme (SAS) was compared with the Kain‐Fritsch and Tiedtke schemes, as well as with a newer implementation of the SAS. A comprehensive test for Atlantic and Eastern North Pacific storms shows that the SAS scheme produces the best track forecasts. Even though the convective parameterization was absent in the inner 3 km nest, the intensity forecasts are sensitive to the choice of cumulus scheme on the outer grids. The impact of convective‐scale heating on the environmental flow accumulates in time since the hurricane vortex is cycled in the HWRF model initialization. This study shows that, for a given forecast, the sensitivity to cumulus parameterization combines the influence of physics and initial conditions.
Possible observational evidence of contact discontinuities
Authors: Hsieh W.‐C. , Shue J.‐H. , Chao J.‐K. , Tsai T.‐C. , Nemecek Z. , Safrankova J.
Published: November 2014

Contact discontinuities (CDs) are discontinuities that have the continuous magnetic fields linked between two sides but no plasma flow across their surfaces. Due to a lack of the CDs evidence in observations, their stable existence is still under debate. CDs are not expected to be observed because of rapid plasma diffusion along the magnetic fields across their surfaces. In this study, we propose a feasible procedure with single‐satellite data for selecting CD based on MHD jump conditions. We find two CD events, one in the solar wind and another in magnetosphere. The electron temperature is smaller than the ion temperature, and the magnetic pressure is larger than the thermal pressure in both CD events. The widths of the transition in the CD events are estimated to be 4.3 and 11.7 ion gyroradii. These two events might be CDs. Multiple spacecraft analyses are needed for further advancement in this topic.
Buzz Aldrin: Mission to Mars
Authors: Leach Neil
Published: November 2014

The lunar landings in 1969 provided the watershed moment for space exploration, bringing the celestial into direct physical contact with man for the first time. As the second man to walk on the Moon, Buzz Aldrin maintains a unique place in American and space history. Here, Guest‐Editor Neil Leach looks at why Aldrin has chosen to highlight the potential of Mars over the Moon in his recent book, Mission to Mars: My Vision for Space Exploration (2013).
Alpha: From the International Style to the International Space Station
Authors: Adams Constance , Jones Rod
Published: November 2014

How has a Modernist predilection for the modular contributed to the design of Space Architecture? Leading space architects Constance Adams and Rod Jones highlight how by embracing a diligent modularity in the early 1980s, NASA initiated a design approach that has enabled replicability, flexibility and technological transparency, and has proved the International Space Station resilient in the face of multiple logistical, financial and political challenges.
Outside the Terrestrial Sphere Greg Lynn FORM: N.O.A.H. (New Outer Atmospheric Habitat) and New City
Authors: Lynn Greg
Published: November 2014

Renowned architect and educator Greg Lynn describes two projects ‐ N.O.A.H, a science‐fiction film, and New City, a design exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York ‐ that directly ‘engage the theme of Space Architecture as the new frontier for design research in terms of the spatial character and navigation of environments with alternative gravities’.
3D Printing in Space
Authors: Leach Neil
Published: November 2014

The cost of transporting raw materials into Space is prohibitive ‐ potentially US$2 million for a single brick to be shipped to the Moon. This means that the future of extraterrestrial construction rests on the development of technologies that are able to employ in‐situ materials, such as lunar dust. Guest‐Editor Neil Leach is a NASA Innovative Advanced Concepts Fellow, collaborating with colleagues from the University of Southern California (USC) on a research project developing a robotic fabrication technology capable of printing structures on the Moon and Mars. Here he describes the inroads that NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) consortia are independently making into 3D‐printed fabrication technologies.
Brave New Worlds: Reaching Towards a New Era of Space Architecture
Authors: Bell Larry
Published: November 2014

Space travel is on the brink of a new era. Larry Bell, Professor of Architecture and Space Architecture at the University of Houston, describes how new ambitions are being reached for, such as the exploration of distant Mars, which will require longer and ever more complex missions. At the same time Space is being opened up internationally, with the participation of China and India, and space tourism is introducing privatisation and new commercial players.
Flexible Organic Electronics in Biology: Materials and Devices
Authors: Liao Caizhi , Zhang Meng , Yao Mei Yu , Hua Tao , Li Li , Yan Feng
Published: November 2014

At the convergence of organic electronics and biology, organic bioelectronics attracts great scientific interest. The potential applications of organic semiconductors to reversibly transmit biological signals or stimulate biological tissues inspires many research groups to explore the use of organic electronics in biological systems. Considering the surfaces of movable living tissues being arbitrarily curved at physiological environments, the flexibility of organic bioelectronic devices is of paramount importance in enabling stable and reliable performances by improving the contact and interaction of the devices with biological systems. Significant advances in flexible organic bio­electronics have been achieved in the areas of flexible organic thin film transistors (OTFTs), polymer electrodes, smart textiles, organic electrochemical ion pumps (OEIPs), ion bipolar junction transistors (IBJTs) and chemiresistors. This review will firstly discuss the materials used in flexible organic bioelectronics, which is followed by an overview on various types of flexible organic bioelectronic devices. The versatility of flexible organic bioelectronics promises a bright future for this emerging area.
Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder symptoms in children with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Plasschaert Ellen , Descheemaeker Mie‐Jef , Van Eylen Lien , Noens Ilse , Steyaert Jean , Legius Eric
Published: November 2014

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition. While considerable work has focused on cognitive functioning, several research groups also observed difficulties in social functioning as a prominent feature of NF1. These problems and the possible link between NF1 and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have become increasingly important in recent NF1 literature. The aim of the current study was to assess ASD characteristics in a hospital‐based NF1 pediatric population (n = 82) using the standardized Children Social Behavior Questionnaire (CSBQ) and Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) to account for the prevalence, severity, and nature of social problems. In a parallel study, comprehensive ASD assessment was performed in a subgroup of NF1 children with a strong suspicion of ASD (n = 31). Results indicate that NF1 children have more social problems than typical controls, more frequently reported above 8 years. The SRS shows that 63% is at risk of ASD symptoms. According to item analyses, most problems were observed on items measuring orientation in, understanding of and being tuned onto a social situation (CSBQ) and social cognition and communication (SRS). In the parallel study, 27 NF1 children were diagnosed with ASD. These children have a distinct phenotype compared to a heterogeneous ASD group, with pronounced social–communicative impairments and fewer restrictive/repetitive behaviors. This study provides a better understanding of social problems in NF1 and the phenotypical overlap with ASD symptomatology. Despite their willingness to engage with others, NF1 children with or without ASD encounter various difficulties in their social–communicative life. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.