bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Older Adults’ Perception of Their Needs in Tehran: A Cry for Emotional and Social Support
Authors: Ghasemi Sima , Mohammadi Nastaran Keshavarz , Shahboulaghi Farahnaz Mohammadi , Ramezankhani Ali
Published: July 2016

INTRODUCTION: Background and purpose: Human’s longevity has increased with advances in health and better management of communicable diseases. Therefore, the number of older adult is increasing in developed and developing countries. A glimpse at studies reveals that identifying elderly’s health needs has been mainly based on the experts’ understanding, while older adult themselves have rarely expressed their own opinions. This study aimed to better understand Tehran, Iran elderly’s perception of their own health needs.

METHODS: In this qualitative study, with purposeful sampling, data was collected by conducting deep semi-structured interviews with elderlies aged 60-84 years, residing at their private houses. After 19 interviews, the data achieved saturation. The content of the interviews was analyzed through content-analysis approach.

RESULTS: Data analyses led to extracting main categories of needs in different domains. The main health needs in physical health domain included: having a healthy lifestyle, independence and safety. Regarding elders’ mental health, coping with their aging, inner tranquility; regarding their spiritual health, the need to have a meaning in life and faithfulness in religion were identified as main groups of needs. And the most important among their main social health needs were the needs for emotional and social support, social involvement and instrumental social support.

CONCLUSION: Although, a wide range of physical, mental and social needs were raised, some were more important. Fulfilling the emotional needs in social health had the highest frequency among the needs expressed by the contributors. Following that with a notable difference were the frequencies of having a healthy lifestyle, independence and inner tranquility. This means that attempts to address elderly health needs should avoid focusing mainly or even only on disease related needs and serious attention should be paid to their emotional and social needs.
Relationship between Quality of the Referral Chain of Hospital Services and Patient Satisfaction
Authors: Mahmoudi-Meymand Farzaneh , Aryankhesal Aidin , Raeissi Pouran
Published: July 2016

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between quality of the referral chain of hospital services and patient satisfaction in Kerman, Iran.

METHODS: The study was quantitative-qualitative and crosses-sectional, conducted during August-October, 2015 in a hospital in Kerman, Iran. Two questionnaires were used in the study. During data collection, 115 patients were referred from a public hospital to an imaging center for imaging services that quality of the referral chain and satisfaction were studied. The quality of referral change was completed by the head nurses of the hospital. Satisfaction from referral service was assessed by the patient. In order to investigate the correlation between patient satisfaction and the supply chain quality and its domains the Pearson correlation test was conducted.

FINDINGS: The average score of quality of the referral chain was 4.53 out of 5 with a standard deviation of 0.45. The average score of patient satisfaction from the referred services was 4.12 out of 5, with a standard deviation of 0.52. “Provision of information to patients” got the highest average and “effective communication” the least among the dimensions of quality of the referral chain. There was a significant relationship between the quality of referral chain and patient satisfaction from the referred services.

CONCLUSION: Participation of all suppliers in the supply chain can create an atmosphere of sincere cooperation between the organizations. Long-term plans should be established to set cooperation among supply chain parties, i.e. hospitals and satellite labs and imaging centers.
Culture at the Center of Economic Development, Stability and Growth
Authors: Cerna Miguel A.
Published: July 2016

This paper stresses the importance of culture in understanding and, perhaps more accurately, predicting economic development. It’s intended to initiate, or re-initiate, the discussion of culture as the core of economic development, stability and growth.

My interest in the discussion of the economy is from a behavioral perspective, taking behavior as an outcome of culture, a factor that remains neglected in most economic literature explaining or forecasting the economy. It seems to me that because the existent literature in economics remains incomplete in terms of culture, predicting the success or failure of any economic model, applied within different cultural settings, may be inaccurate. Hence, the fundamental assumption presented in this document is that different regions in the world develop different economic levels due to cultural differences. I take example in East Asia in general and China in particular to explain cultural factors that have contributed to the economic development in the region.

The following discussion has been divided into five parts, as follows: First, an introduction to the main arguments. Second, a short discussion of the definition of culture developed by several scholars in the past. Elaborating on those earlier definitions, I propose a definition that may best suit the economic issue at hand. Third, a review of some of the most important economists and their key arguments, upon which I elaborate from a cultural perspective. Fourth, a discussion of East-Asian countries and China’s economic development from a cultural perspective. Fifth, my conclusions and a proposed model that includes culture as a factor in the decision-making process when choosing an economic strategy and its corresponding models.
Profitability of Banks in Lebanon: Some Theoretical and Empirical Results
Authors: Azar Samih Antoine , Bolbol Ali , Mouradian Alexandre
Published: June 2016

The paper, instead of relying on ad hoc measures, derives a simple theoretical model for the income of a commercial bank. This model identifies eight internal exogenous factors to the profitability of these banks. A total panel of 39 banks over the twelve-year period 2003-2014 is studied. The dependent variable is taken to be the return on average total assets (ROAA). The estimation procedure is through panel least squares.  Fixed effects and random effects are considered. The results support the cross section fixed effects model, which brings to light the heterogeneity of banks in Lebanon. Four out of the eight factors are found to be statistically highly significant, explaining about 50% of the variation in ROAA. These are: the interest rate spread, the capital adequacy ratio, the cost to income ratio, and the ratio of non-interest income to total assets. Dynamics are included in the model by adding to the regressors the first lag of the dependent variable. This makes for different short run and long run impacts, with the latter found to be higher than the former as economic theory postulates. Among other recommendations banks are advised to diversify their income towards more wealth management and investment banking, to pay particular attention to their traditional source of income, which is the interest rate spread between loans and deposits, and to manage carefully their cost structure.
The Econometric Estimation of Macroeconomic Effect of Financial Development on Economic Growth in Cote d’Ivoire: A Long and Short Run Analysis, 1970-2014
Authors: Guy Hervé Drama Bédi
Published: June 2016

The aim of this article was to investigate empirically the link between financial development and economic growth in Cote d’Ivoire using time series data covering the period of 1970-2014, both in short and long run. The Error correction model and cointegration method were performed to capture the short and long run dynamics of this relationship respectively. The cointegration test result showed evidence of long-run and significant causal between financial development and economic growth in Cote d’Ivoire during the study period. Furthermore, the coefficient of the error correction term (ECT) in the short-run dynamic model was statistically insignificant with inappropriate sign and weak. Consequently, the empirical evidence suggests that countries authorities should promote domestic private credit to boost liquidity level to ensure long-term price stability and strengthen local industries production capacities.
Investigating the Effect of Dividend Policy on the Wealth of Stockholders of Listed Companies on the Ghana Stock Exchange
Authors: Nkuah Evans Fayol , Yusif Hadrat
Published: June 2016

This paper has examined the impact of dividend policy on the wealth of stockholders of selected registered companies on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE). Secondary data were collected on 25 listed firms using annual reports from 2005 to 2011. The dependent variable was wealth of stockholders proxied by market price per stock. The explanatory variables included dividend per stock (DPS), retained earning per stock (REPS), financial leverage (FLEV), and price earning ratio (PER). Fixed-effect model was fitted to the data. The regression results showed that dividend payment, retained earning, and price earning ratio have significant positive impact on the stock market price. It was also found that the impact of dividend is more pronounced than that of retained earning in the context of companies registered on the Ghana Stock Exchange. It is therefore recommended that optimal trade-off between dividend payment and retained earning be established by corporate management to maximise the wealth of stockholders.

 
Special Issue Editors’ Notes: Linguistic diversity, equity and pedagogical innovation in higher education
Authors: Kinsella Benjamin , Cioè-Peña María , Arpacik Demet
Published: July 2016

This monograph will report on the results of a series of case studies conducted across several campuses of the City University of New York within a university-sponsored project entitled Futures Initiative (FI). The FI project advocates for greater equity and innovation in higher education through several actions, including research and student and teacher development initiatives. In this monograph, the authors of the contributions came together in an interdisciplinary doctoral seminar on educational language policy, which was chosen to take on an active role in the FI project. The seminar was led by Dr. Ofelia García and Dr. Carmina Makar.
Kurdish Language Class in New York: A Platform for Social, Political and (Inter)personal Engagement
Authors: Archanjo Renata , Arpacik Demet
Published: July 2016

Every country that encompasses Kurdistan faces extermination efforts, meaning that the Kurdish language has found refuge mainly in exile and has been associated increasingly with the Kurdish identity and with the political struggle of the Kurdish people. The present study looks at a very special case; a voluntarily-initiated Kurdish language class that takes place in the middle of Manhattan, New York, at a prestigious public university. We conducted interviews with 3 students and the teacher of the class to understand the dynamics within and beyond the Kurdish language class, the interplay of their political ideologies, as well as the intricate process of identity negotiation through language practices. Results indicate that through the language class, people are exercising the right to a language, the right to a culture and the right of a people. Participants are challenging and resisting established relations of power and transforming the educational space into a space of freedom.
As Comunidades Eclesiais de Base – CEBs e renovação paroquial
Authors: Oliveira Pedro Assis Ribeiro de
Published: July 2016

A proposta de renovação da paróquia retornou à agenda de debates na Igreja católica, especialmente no Brasil, como “comunidade de comunidades”, para incorporar a renovação eclesial trazida pelas Comunidades Eclesiais de Base - CEBs como presença da Igreja no mundo. Esta Comunicação apoia-se na Sociologia das Instituições religiosas para analisar a viabilidade dessa proposta a partir da experiência das CEBs no Brasil. Elas foram criadas em espaços não ocupados pelas paróquias e adotaram uma estrutura antes pastoral do que canônica. Ao esbarrar nas normas canônicas que regem a paróquia e constituem entraves ao desenvolvimento das CEBs, estas inovaram criando áreas pastorais que vão além dos limites territoriais de uma paróquia. O texto analisa as diferenças estruturais entre paróquias e áreas pastorais e conclui que a renovação eclesial, no sentido da Igreja em saída, requer a superação da estrutura canônica da paróquia pela área pastoral.
Advantages of a Warfarin Protocol for Long-term Care Pharmacists: a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sargent Randall , Brocklebank Cynthia , Tam-Tham Helen , Williamson Tyler , Quail Patrick , Turner Diana , Drummond Neil
Published: June 2016

BackgroundWarfarin is an anticoagulant prescribed to 12% of long-term care residents to reduce the risk of thrombo-embolism. This study used indicators to compare warfarin management by pharmacists to usual care.MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study comparing a pharmacist-managed warfarin protocol with usual care of qualified warfarin recipients at long-term care facilities (two protocol, one control) in Calgary, Alberta. We compared the proportion of international normalized ratio (INR) tests in the range 2.0 to 3.0, time in range, number of tests, and frequency of bleeding at protocol and control sites. Our primary outcome, time in INR therapeutic range, is an indicator for assuring care quality. A cross-sectional survey at these sites compared health professionals’ perceptions of workload and effectiveness of warfarin management.ResultsOf the 197 residents’ charts reviewed in the study period, those on protocol had 45.0 INR tests while those on usual care had 52.7 tests (p = .034, 95% CI for the difference: 0.6 to 14.6 INR tests). No significant difference was found for time in therapeutic range, number of tests in range, or major bleeding events. Of 178 health professionals surveyed, those from protocol facilities were more satisfied with warfarin management (p = .013). Workload and safety were perceived similarly at all sites.InterpretationOur results suggest that a pharmacist-managed warfarin protocol is as effective as usual care and has advantages pertaining to work satisfaction, knowledge of drug interactions, consistent documentation, and fewer INR tests. Further research on teamwork and coagulation management in long-term carefacilities is recommended.
Impact of the ‘Artful Moments’ Intervention on Persons with Dementia and Their Care Partners: a Pilot Study
Authors: Hazzan Afeez Abiola , Humphrey Janis , Kilgour-Walsh Laurie , Moros Katherine L. , Murray Carmen , Stanners Shannon , Montemuro Maureen , Giangregorio Aidan , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: June 2016

BackgroundEngaging with art can be valuable for persons living with dementia. ‘Artful Moments’ was a collaborative project undertaken by the Art Gallery of Hamilton and the Behavioural Health Program at Hamilton Health Sciences that sought to develop and implement a program of arts-based activities for persons in the middle-to-late stages of dementia who exhibit behavioural symptoms and for their accompanying care partners.MethodsThis pilot study employed a qualitative descriptive design. Eight participants were observed during multiple art sessions to evaluate their level of engagement in the program. Care partners also completed a questionnaire describing their experience. Qualitative content analysis was used to identify themes.ResultsFor program participants, factors that promoted continued interest and engagement in art included: care partner involvement, group activities, opportunities to share opinions, validation of their personhood, and increased engagement over time. Care partners observed improvements in participants’ creativity, communication, relationship forming, and task accomplishment, and some reported reduced stress.Conclusions‘Artful Moments’ promoted engagement and expression in persons in the middle-to-late stages of dementia, as well as having benefits for their care partners. Limitations of the study included a small convenience sample drawn from one hospital setting.
POTENCIAL ENERGÉTICO DOS RESÍDUOS DO FRUTO DA MACAÚBA E SUA UTILIZAÇÃO NA PRODUÇÃO DE CARVÃO VEGETAL
Authors: Evaristo Anderson Barbosa , Martino Daniela Correia , Ferrarez Adriano Henrique , Donato Danilo Barros , Carneiro Angélica de Cássia Oliveira , Grossi José Antônio Saraiva
Published: July 2016

O uso da biomassa para fins energéticos tem sido destaque como forma de reduzir a dependência energética de fontes não renováveis. A macaúba, espécie Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd. ex Martius, é uma palmeira arborescente. Possui um grande potencial energético a partir do processamento de seus frutos. O objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar os resíduos da macaúba após o processamento dos frutos, a fim de avaliar a sua utilização in natura e como carvão vegetal. O endocarpo apresentou teor de carbono fixo, poder calorífico e densidade a granel superiores, quando comparado aos demais resíduos e menores teores de cinza. O poder calorífico do carvão do endocarpo foi superior, enquanto que os teores de materiais voláteis do carvão do epicarpo apresentaram os maiores resultados. Todos os resíduos avaliados do processamento do fruto da macaúba têm potencial na geração de energia, especialmente o endocarpo e o epicarpo. O carvão do endocarpo possui características adequadas para sua utilização como fonte de energia e como redutor.
ESTUDO DE CASOS DE PRECIPITAÇÃO UTILIZANDO O WRF-3DVAR NA REGIÃO SUL DO BRASIL
Authors: Yamasaki Yoshihro , Beck Vinicius Carvalho , Harter Fabricio Pereira
Published: July 2016

The aim of the study has been to evaluate the results of the data assimilation of INMET automatic weather stations and soundings of the southern of Brazil in precipitation and temperature forecasting of predicting of the WRF model by 3DVAR method (WRF-3DVAR), analyzing in each case, whether the WRF-3DVAR forecasts are more accurate than the WRF without data assimilation. The obtained results show the great importance of data assimilation in precipitation prediction of the WRF model. The prognoses of vertical profiles of the air and the dew point temperatures, showed that the data assimilation produced predictions with thermal and moist vertical structures more realistic in the light of the observational soundings.
AVALIAÇÃO DA CLIMATOLOGIA NA REGIÃO AMAZÔNICA NOS MODELOS DA FAMÍLIA HIGEM
Authors: Custodio Maria De Souza , Rocha Rosmeri Porfirio da , Ambrizzi Tercio , Vidale Pier Luigi
Published: July 2016

This study analyzed the high resolution coupled and atmospheric global models of HiGEM/UJCC project (version 1.2) with different horizontal resolutions over Amazon region (South America). The purpose of this study was to understand the impact of the horizontal resolution of coupled models in simulating atmospheric patterns and processes of interaction between spatial scales over Amazon region. Therefore, we used simulations from HadGEM, HiGEM (coupled), HadGAM, HiGEM (uncoupled), and also observed data from different reanalyzes, with different spatial horizontal resolution (CMAP, CRU, GPCP, NCEP, CPC, ERA-Interim). The precipitation and temperature seasonal patterns and annual cycles were compared with observed data, and some measures of dispersion for the annual cycles were analyzed. To study the annual cycle we considered two subdomains in this region: AMN (North Amazon) and AMN (Amazon). The results indicated that the grid refinement and ocean-atmosphere coupling contributes to a better representation of seasonal patterns, both precipitation and temperature, on the Amazon region. Besides, the climatic models analyzed represent better than other models (regional and global) the climatic characteristics of this region. This indicates a breakthrough in the development of high resolution climate models.
AVALIAÇÃO DO WRF-4DVAR EM UM CASO DE EVENTO SEVERO NO RIO GRANDE DO SUL
Authors: Macedo Luana Ribeiro , Basso João Luiz Martins , Yamasaki Yoshihiro
Published: July 2016

The WRF mesoscale system 4DVAR data assimilation technique have been used with the purpose of evaluating the impact of the meteorological data assimilation on the numeric time prognosis over the Rio Grande do Sul state. It has been done utilizing the surface and altitude data. The consistency analysis has been done evaluating the numerical prognosis exploring the differences between the analysis with and without data assimilation. The produced prognosis results have been compared spatially using the TRMM satellite data as well as the Canguçu radar reflectivity data. The accumulated rainfall has been validated and compared spatially with the TRMM data for the time period of 12 hours comprehended between October 29th and 30th of 2014. It was possible to realize that as well as the WRF, the WRFVAR overestimated the rainfall values. The radar reflectivity field without data assimilation for October 30th at 06:00UTC detected most accurately the reflectivity centers over the state. On the other hand this field with data assimilation did not present good skill. The temperature field analyses reveal that the 4DVAR assimilation system contributes, one way or another, presenting a little improvement for some points compared to the real data.
AVALIAÇÃO DO PROCESSO DE COMPOSTAGEM UTILIZANDO LODO DE ESTAÇÃO DE TRATAMENTO DE EFLUENTES DE LATICÍNIO
Authors: Rodrigues Alexandre Couto , Baum Camila Angélica , Formentini Jessica , Schmachtenberg Natana , Trevisan Gabriel Menezes , Silva Ana Claudia Guedes
Published: June 2016

The study evaluated the composting process using float sludge from Dairy Wastewater Treatment Plant in order to check the quality of the final compound and the value end fertilizer for applicability in agriculture. This was developed in the experimental area of Agricultural College of Frederick / CAFW-UFSM in Fredericksburg in Medium High Uruguay of Rio Grande do Sul region, from April to July 2013. The experiment was performed in triplicate, where each windrow composting comprised float sludge (nitrogen source) and tifton 85 hay (carbon source). During the process was monitor the temperature, climatic variables, insects, fungi, spiders, worms, larvae and odor. After maturation of the chemical analysis of the final composite substrates were also performed. The development of the process during the fall / winter and instances of rainy periods, caused the temperature of cells accompany the room temperature only reaching higher temperatures during periods without significant rainfall, and preventing the process reached the thermophilic stage. Nevertheless, the resulting substrate had good C/N, 18.67: 1, and can be used without prejudice to the soil as fertilizer.
ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION INDICATORS IN AGROFORESTRY SYSTEMS IN THE ATLANTIC FOREST
Authors: Navas Rafael , Silva Rodrigo Jesus
Published: June 2016

The Agroforestry Systems (SAF) are forms of land use and land occupation in which woody plants are managed in association with herbaceous and agricultural ones. They present the possibility to recover degraded areas, as comprehended in legislation. Thus, the monitoring and assessment of areas recovered with Agroforestry Systems are extremely important, seeking to evaluate if their environmental functions can be equivalent to areas recovered only with native species. Thereby, the objective of this study was to evaluate, through forest restoration indicators, the recovery of ecosystem functions in SAF implanted in Ribeirão Grande, São Paulo State. The sample design was randomized by 3 installments (15 x 15 m each) randomly allocated in a SAF area and other 3 installments in a reforestation area with native species only (RN), both five years old, in the same watershed. The indicators were crown diameter, forest litter stock, height and diameter above the base of the individual trees, temperature, and humidity. The assumptions of normality and homogeneity of variance were verified through the Waste Analysis, with subsequent analysis using the nonparametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. Statistical analyzes were performed using the R software (R Delopment Core Team, 2012) with a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05). It is concluded that the recovery area only with native species presents better development of vertical structure, with greater canopy closure. For soil indicators there were no differences. SAF, run by natural succession, can be presented as an alternative to the recovery of degraded areas, because they are more similar to the structure of native forests.
CONTROLE BIOLÓGICO EM SISTEMA ORGÂNICO DE PRODUÇÃO POR AGRICULTORES DA CIDADE DE MARINGÁ-PR
Authors: Chagas Francieli Das , Polonio Julio Cesar , Ruvolo-Takasusuki Maria Claudia Colla , Pamphile João Alencar , Conte Helio
Published: June 2016

The continuous growth of world population and the increased use of pesticides became obvious environmental problems, leading to agricultural production to develop alternative practices that promote environmental sustainability. The use of biological control techniques to reduce agricultural pests have been increasing, enabling the substitution of conventional insecticides by diversified natural enemies such as insects, viruses, fungi, bacteria, plant extracts, and others. A quantitative-descriptive analysis was carried using a questionnaire as mean to personal interview of organic growers in the city of Maringa, state of Paraná, Brazil was held. The aim was quantify about the knowledge of biological controllers by this growers, the use, and economic viability of these, aiming to promote the expansion of the practice and development of new controllers to replace or reduce the use of chemicals. The results show that all growers have the knowledge and have used alternative methods of biocontrol, some of them consider the practice of  great environmental importance, but is still required further studies of the regional entomofauna to better effectiveness of the biocontrol.
AVALIAÇÃO DA CINÉTICA DE COMPORTAMENTO E CAPACIDADE DE REDUÇÃO DE CROMO POR LINHAGENS BACTERIANAS PADRÃO
Authors: Bizani Delmar , Spagiari Matheus Souza
Published: June 2016

With the growing world development there is a big waste generation by agricultural systems, industrial and besides several accidents with different pollutants, such as petrochemical, metal mechanic, leather and footwear, mining, etc, raising concern with the environment environment and more knowledge about their degradation. In this sense, alternatives are sought to try to minimize environmental problems using living organisms and their enzymes in the biodegradation of toxic compounds aimed at its eradication, reduction or transformation into less toxic substances. To evaluate the growth kinetics, survivability and bioreduction, this study used standard bacterial strains of Acetobacter aceti and Micrococcus luteus in medium containing chromium ion (VI). The chromium ion-containing media were made up by dissolving 850 mg of K2Cr2O7, 1 liter adjusted to the desired concentration of 300 mg L-1. The bioprocess was conducted and 250 ml flask type incubator shaker at 32° C for 7 days. Quantification followed the methodology established by Standard Methods (Method 3500 Cr B). Both strains were shown to be capable of reducing the chromium ion concentrations, containing more than 36% rate. The behavior of strains in liquid medium presented constantly growing and showing no interference of chromium ion.
RELAÇÕES ENTRE O PODER PÚBLICO E A VEGETAÇÃO URBANA: IMPLICAÇÕES E BENEFÍCIOS
Authors: Santos Lenise Xavier dos , Pires Victor Paulo Kloeckner
Published: June 2016

Most cities located in underdeveloped countries present disorganized growth due to lack of planning, mostly regards environmental issues . Considering Urban Vegetation fundamental to keep and increase the positive aspects of the environment , the main objectice of this paper is identifying the environmental administration practices related to it, developed by Local Public Administration in Sao Gabriel -RS. Data was collected from interviewing members of the Municipality who recognized the importance and benefits of Urban Vegetation especially when native species are preserved - Urban Vegetation handling mainly follow specifications listed on Codigo Estadual Florestal ( State Law) , even though there is a local legislation on that subject. The mechanisms to preserve this kind of vegetation are based on checking the impact of all enterprises requests that may have their environmental licence denied due to Codigo Florestal Estadual. We have concluded that an exclusive bureau to deal with environmental issues and supervise all the Municipality decisions regards Urban Vegetation would surely be more efficient.
Psychometric properties and structures of passionate and companionate love
Authors: Karandashev Victor , Clapp Stuart
Published: June 2016

After many decades of romantic relationship research, there is a new focus on a multidimensional model of love. This empirical study examines the multidimensionality and psychometrics of Passionate and Companionate love, based on an extensive study of 413 participants using Multidimensional Love Scale (MLS). A new statistical approach employed in this study explores the typology and structure of love. The statistical approach included the combination of Two-Step Cluster Analysis of cases and Principle Component Analysis of dimensions while using centered variable scores. The results reveal a typology of love based on its multidimensional structure. Further analysis revealed two main types of love: Passionate and Companionate, both containing several factors allowing for interpretation of their multidimensional structures. The MLS subscales and detailed psychometric analysis measuring specific love dimensions are incorporated to allow further research in other studies.
Friendship in Latin American social comparative studies
Authors: Garcia Agnaldo , Bucher-Maluschke Julia Sursis Nobre Ferro , Pérez-Angarita Daniela Marisol , Pereira Fábio Nogueira
Published: June 2016

Friendship has been traditionally investigated in the field of interpersonal relationships using different theoretical frameworks and approaches. This paper discusses the possibility of investigating friendship from a comparative Latin American perspective, based on a wide literature review on the subject. Based on the theoretical proposals of Hinde (1997) for the investigation of interpersonal relationships, the paper considers that friendship involves several levels of complexity and affects and is affected by distinct dimensions of Latin American society. The paper recognizes that comparative studies have placed the importance of friends and friendship in areas such as economy, health, education, and migration, among others. As expected, Latin American comparative studies are more frequent in some disciplines, mainly those based on censuses data, and theoretically related to social-economic and demographic concepts, including social networks and social capital. The possibility of developing a Latin American perspective for the study of friendship requires not only the need of empirical but also theoretical advances, as well as scientific cooperation and innovation. Friendship is seen as relevant for the constitution of the social tissue of Latin American society, being affected and affecting different areas and levels. In the social economic dimension, friends are relevant, specifically in Latin America, to themes such as poverty and social vulnerability. Some future possibilities for investigation are discussed.
Preischemic Administration of Nonexpanded Adipose Stromal Vascular Fraction Attenuates Acute Renal Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury and Fibrosis
Authors: Zhou Liuhua , Xu Luwei , Shen Jiangwei , Song Qun , Wu Ran , Ge Yuzheng , Xin Hui , Zhu Jiageng , Wu Jianping , Jia Ruipeng
Published: July 2016

Ischemia/reperfusion (IR)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical syndrome. Stem/progenitor cell therapy is a promising option to foster the intrinsic capacity for kidney regeneration. However, there are still several challenges to be resolved, including the potential risks during cell culture, low retention rate after transplantation, and unclear effect on the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Recently, nonexpanded adipose stromal vascular fraction (SVF) has been regarded as an attractive cell source for cell-based therapy. Preconditioning with ischemia has been suggested as a useful method to promote the retention and survival of transplanted cells in vivo. In this study, freshly isolated autologous SVF was transplanted to the kidney of rats before ischemia, and then an IR-induced AKI model was established. Postischemic administration of SVF to the kidney was performed after renal IR injury was induced. A higher cell retention rate was detected in the preischemic group. Preischemic administration of SVF showed stronger functional and morphologic protection from renal IR injury than postischemic administration, through enhancing tubular cell proliferation and reducing apoptosis. Progression of kidney fibrosis was also significantly delayed by preischemic administration of SVF, which exhibited stronger inhibition of transforming growth factor-β1-induced epithelia-mesenchymal transition and microvascular rarefaction. In addition, in vitro study showed that prehypoxic administration of SVF could significantly promote the proliferation, migration, and survival of hypoxic renal tubular epithelial cells. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that preischemic administration of nonexpanded adipose SVF protected the kidney from both acute IR injury and long-term risk of developing CKD.

Significance

Renal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury is a common clinical syndrome. Cell-based therapy provides a promising option to promote renal repair after IR injury. However, several challenges still remain because of the potential risks during cell culture, low retention rate after transplantation, and unclear effect on the progression of chronic kidney disease. Stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is considered as an attractive cell source. This study demonstrated that preischemic administration of uncultured SVF could increase cell retention and then improve renal function and structure at both early and long-term stage after IR, which may provide a novel therapeutic approach for IR injury.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Spheroids Retain Osteogenic Phenotype Throughα2β1 Signaling
Authors: Murphy Kaitlin C. , Hoch Allison I. , Harvestine Jenna N. , Zhou Dejie , Leach J. Kent
Published: July 2016

The induction of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) toward the osteoblastic lineage using osteogenic supplements prior to implantation is one approach under examination to enhance their bone-forming potential. MSCs rapidly lose their induced phenotype upon removal of the soluble stimuli; however, their bone-forming potential can be sustained when provided with continued instruction via extracellular matrix (ECM) cues. In comparison with dissociated cells, MSC spheroids exhibit improved survival and secretion of trophic factors while maintaining their osteogenic potential. We hypothesized that entrapment of MSC spheroids formed from osteogenically induced cells would exhibit better preservation of their bone-forming potential than would dissociated cells from monolayer culture. Spheroids exhibited comparable osteogenic potential and increased proangiogenic potential with or without osteogenic preconditioning versus monolayer-cultured MSCs. Spheroids were then entrapped in collagen hydrogels, and the osteogenic stimulus was removed. In comparison with entrapped dissociated MSCs, spheroids exhibited significantly increased markers of osteogenic differentiation. The capacity of MSC spheroids to retain their osteogenic phenotype upon withdrawal of inductive cues was mediated by α2β1 integrin binding to cell-secreted ECM. These results demonstrate the capacity of spheroidal culture to sustain the mineral-producing phenotype of MSCs, thus enhancing their contribution toward bone formation and repair.

Significance

Despite the promise of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for cell-based therapies for tissue repair and regeneration, there is little evidence that transplanted MSCs directly contribute to new bone formation, suggesting that induced cells rapidly lose their osteogenic phenotype or undergo apoptosis. In comparison with dissociated cells, MSC spheroids exhibit increased trophic factor secretion and improved cell survival. The loss of phenotype represents a significant clinical challenge for cell therapies, yet there is no evidence for whether MSC spheroids retain their osteogenic phenotype upon entrapment in a clinically relevant biomaterial. These findings demonstrate that MSC spheroids retain their osteogenic phenotype better than do dissociated MSCs, and this is due to integrin engagement with the cell-secreted extracellular matrix. These data provide evidence for a novel approach for potentiating the use of MSCs in bone repair.
Life-threatening Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: a case report
Authors: Godoy Daniel Agustin , Álvarez Érica
Published: June 2016

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT) can compromise dural sinus, cerebral veins or both. It is an uncommon condition and it is more prevalent in young women. Several prothrombotic states are the principal predisposing factors. Clinical spectrum of presentation is wide, so this entity requires a high suspect index for correct and prompt diagnosis. CVT may develop serious complications that can be life-threatening such as hemorrhagic venous infarctions, cerebral edema, and intracranial hypertension.This report describes the case of a woman who was in treatment for unspecific vaginal bleeding with oral contraceptives. Suddenly she deteriorated to coma with severe respiratory compromise. Neuroimaging showed thrombosis of multiple venous sinus. Physiological neuroprotection, osmotherapy, mechanical ventilation and anticoagulation therapy were the keystones of treatment.In a few months, the patient has recovered a good functional status, while maintaining a motor deficit on the right hand.
A stochastic multicellular model identifies biological watermarks from disorders in self-organized patterns of phyllotaxis
Authors: Refahi Yassin , Brunoud Géraldine , Farcot Etienne , Jean-Marie Alain , Pulkkinen Minna , Vernoux Teva , Godin Christophe
Published: July 2016

Exploration of developmental mechanisms classically relies on analysis of pattern regularities. Whether disorders induced by biological noise may carry information on building principles of developmental systems is an important debated question. Here, we addressed theoretically this question using phyllotaxis, the geometric arrangement of plant aerial organs, as a model system. Phyllotaxis arises from reiterative organogenesis driven by lateral inhibitions at the shoot apex. Motivated by recurrent observations of disorders in phyllotaxis patterns, we revisited in depth the classical deterministic view of phyllotaxis. We developed a stochastic model of primordia initiation at the shoot apex, integrating locality and stochasticity in the patterning system. This stochastic model recapitulates phyllotactic patterns, both regular and irregular, and makes quantitative predictions on the nature of disorders arising from noise. We further show that disorders in phyllotaxis instruct us on the parameters governing phyllotaxis dynamics, thus that disorders can reveal biological watermarks of developmental systems.
Association Between Method of Delivery and Exclusive Breastfeeding at Hospital Discharge
Authors: Kling David , Haile Zelalem T. , Francescon John , Chertok Ilana
Published: July 2016

Context: Studies have shown that exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge is associated with longer duration of breastfeeding. Method of delivery (MOD) is a barrier that may hinder breastfeeding practices. However, research examining the association between MOD and exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge is lacking.

Objective: To examine the association between MOD and exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge.

Methods: We used a cross-sectional study design to conduct a secondary data analysis of 1494 women who participated in the Infant Feeding Practices Study II between 2005 and 2007. Multiple logistic regression was conducted to estimate the OR and 95% CI for the association between MOD and exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge, after adjusting for potential confounding variables.

Results: The crude prevalence rates of vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery were 74.8% and 25.2%, respectively. The prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge was 70.6% among respondents who gave birth by cesarean delivery compared with 79.9% of women who gave birth vaginally (P=.001). After adjusting for sociodemographic, behavioral, and anthropometric factors, the odds of exclusive breastfeeding at hospital discharge were lower among women who gave birth by cesarean delivery compared with women who gave birth vaginally (OR, 0.41; 95% CI, 0.24-0.71).

Conclusion: Women who give birth by cesarean delivery may require additional attention, assistance, and encouragement during their hospital stay to improve rates of exclusive breastfeeding at discharge. Health care professionals should address the issue of MOD when promoting exclusive breastfeeding to maximize the potential for longer-term breastfeeding success.
Osteopathic Approach to the Diagnosis of Appendiceal Mucinous Cystadenocarcinoma Mimicking Primary Ovarian Malignant Neoplasm
Authors: Martingano Daniel , Gurm Hashroop , Oliff Andrew , Martingano Francis X. , Aglialoro George
Published: July 2016

The fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the United States is ovarian cancer. An estimated 21,980 new cases and 14,270 estimated deaths occurred nationwide in 2014. More than two-thirds of cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed at stage III or IV when the peritoneal cavity or other organs are affected. Primary appendiceal malignant neoplasms may mimic advanced-stage ovarian cancer and can be misdiagnosed because of its presentation as a palpable adnexal mass. The authors describe a 42-year-old woman who was admitted to the department of obstetrics and gynecology to receive treatment for presumed advanced-stage ovarian cancer. She subsequently received a diagnosis of primary pseudomyxoma peritonei metastatic to the ovaries, mimicking a primary ovarian cancer by osteopathic structural examination findings, serum tumor markers, surgical exploration, and histopathologic confirmation.
Optical and ammonia-sensing properties of SnO2nanoparticles synthesized using a 900 W microwave
Authors: Klinbumrung Arrak , Thongtem Titipun , Phuruangrat Anukorn , Thongtem Somchai
Published: July 2016

SnO2nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using a 900 W microwave for 10, 20, and 30 min. Tetragonal SnO2nanoparticles composed of Sn and O were detected by X-ray diffraction (XRD), selected area electron diffraction (SEAD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The SnO2nanoparticles processed for 30 min were the best crystals. The 3.5 eV energy gap and 395 nm emission wavelength were determined by UV–visible absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. The gas-sensing performance of SnO2nanoparticles during exposure to an NH3–air mixture was studied at different working temperatures and NH3concentrations. At 1055 ppm NH3and 350 °C, the SnO2nanoparticles showed a sensitivity of 9.2 with the response and recovery times of 9 and 37 s, respectively.
Optical and mechanical detection of near-field light by atomic force microscopy using a piezoelectric cantilever
Authors: Satoh Nobuo , Kobayashi Kei , Watanabe Shunji , Fujii Toru , Matsushige Kazumi , Yamada Hirofumi
Published: July 2016

In this study, we developed an atomic force microscopy (AFM) system with scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM) using a microfabricated force-sensing cantilever with a lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin film. Both optical and mechanical detection techniques were adopted in SNOM to detect scattered light induced by the interaction of the PZT cantilever tip apex and evanescent light, and SNOM images were obtained for each detection scheme. The mechanical detection technique did allow for a clear observation of the light scattered from the PZT cantilever without the interference observed by the optical detection technique, which used an objective lens, a pinhole, and a photomultiplier tube.
Combined atomic force microscopy and voltage pulse technique to accurately measure electrostatic force
Authors: Inami Eiichi , Sugimoto Yoshiaki
Published: July 2016

We propose a new method of extracting electrostatic force. The technique is based on frequency modulation atomic force microscopy (FM-AFM) combined with a voltage pulse. In this method, the work that the electrostatic field does on the oscillating tip is measured through the cantilever energy dissipation. This allows us to directly extract capacitive forces including the longer range part, to which the conventional FM-AFM is insensitive. The distance-dependent contact potential difference, which is modulated by local charges distributed on the surfaces of the tip and/or sample, could also be correctly obtained. In the absence of local charges, our method can perfectly reproduce the electrostatic force as a function of the distance and the bias voltage. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the system serves as a sensitive sensor enabling us to check the existence of the local charges such as trapped charges and patch charges.
Tailoring the 4H-SiC/SiO2 MOS-interface for SiC-based power switches
Authors: Mikhaylov Aleksey I. , Afanasyev Alexey V. , Luchinin Victor V. , Reshanov Sergey A. , Schöner Adolf , Knoll Lars , Minamisawa Renato A. , Alfieri Giovanni , Bartolf Holger
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we compare the performance of lateral MOSFETs fabricated with different gate oxide formation processes on p-type epilayers with doping concentration in the range of 1 × 1016 cm−3 against Al-implanted p-well doped to 1 × 1018 cm−3. An overview of different technological approaches for the enhancement of the channel mobility is provided. The general trends are summarized and concluded and the main guideline for tailoring the gate oxide formation process is discussed.
Two wavelength‐dependent mechanisms of sensitisation of light‐induced quenching in the isolated light‐harvesting complex II
Authors: Santabarbara Stefano , Zubik Monika , Remelli William , Zucchelli Giuseppe , Gruszecki Wieslaw I.
Published: July 2016

The efficiency of visible light in inducing fluorescence quenching in the isolated light‐harvesting complex II (LHCII) of higher plants is investigated by action spectroscopy in the visible portion of photosynthetic active radiation. The efficiency spectrum displays a relatively homogenous quenching yield across the most intense electronic transitions of the chlorophyll a and carotenoid pigments, indicating that quenching proceeds from the equilibrated state of the complex. Larger yields are observed in the 510–640‐nm window, where weak transitions of LHCII‐bound chromophores occur. This observation is interpreted in terms of an additional quenching sensitisation process mediated by these electronic transitions.