bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobility Levels and Mobility Preferences of the Elderly in the United States
Authors: Sikder Sujan , Pinjari Abdul Rawoof
Published: February 2013

Transportation mobility is critically important to the well-being of the elderly population. By using data from the 2009 National Household Travel Survey, this paper proposes a metric to measure immobility among elderly over different time frames. Specifically, “short-term immobility” is defined as immobility for a single day while “long-term immobility” refers to immobility of a week or more, and “medium-term immobility” is between 2 to 7 days. In addition, long-term immobile elderly are divided into two mobility-preference groups on the basis of whether they prefer going out of their home. With this immobility metric, and respondent-stated mobility preferences, descriptive analysis and discrete choice models are used to analyze the correlates of immobility among the American elderly. African American elderly are found to be more likely to be long-term immobile than those from other racial groups. Such racial differences are not readily apparent in immobility over shorter time frames. This result explains that most previous studies did not find any racial differences in elderly mobility because of the shorter time frames of analysis of those studies. The presence of another elderly companion in the household is found to have a significant positive influence on a person's mobility. Medical conditions may impose physical constraints on the ability to travel but do not seem to curb the desire for mobility among the elderly. However, the inability to drive is associated with a strong preference against going out of the home, suggesting that the automobile-centric land-use transportation system can potentially curb the desire of nondriving elderly to travel out of the home.
Parental Attitudes toward Children Walking and Bicycling to School
Authors: Seraj Saamiya , Sidharthan Raghuprasad , Bhat Chandra R. , Pendyala Ram M. , Goulias Konstadinos G.
Published: February 2013

Recent research suggests that, besides traditional sociodemographic and built environment attributes, the attitudes and perceptions of parents toward walking and bicycling play a crucial role in deciding which travel modes children take to school. However, little is known about the factors that shape these parental attitudes. The current study aims to investigate this unexplored avenue of research and to identify the influences on parental attitudes toward children walking and bicycling to school as part of a larger nationwide effort to make children more physically active and combat rising trends of childhood obesity in the United States. Through the use of a multivariate ordered response model (a model structure that allows different attitudes to be correlated), the current study analyzes five parental attitudes toward children walking and bicycling to school on the basis of data drawn from the California add-on sample of the 2009 National Household Travel Survey. In particular, the subsample from the Los Angeles–Riverside–Orange County area is used in this study to take advantage of a rich set of microaccessibility measures that are available for this region. It is found that school accessibility, work patterns, current mode use in the household, and sociodemographic characteristics shape parental attitudes toward children walking and bicycling to school. The study findings provide insights on policies, strategies, and campaigns that may help shift parental attitudes to be more favorable toward children walking and bicycling to school.
Next Generation of Travel Behavior
Authors: Mans Janine , Interrante Erica , Lem Lewison , Mueller Judy , Lawrence Michael
Published: February 2013

Transportation behavior appears to have shifted in recent years. Between the 2001 and 2009 National Household Travel Surveys, the average annual vehicle miles traveled for all age brackets fell. This reduction in driving is likely to be related to a number of factors, one of which may be the rapid introduction and adoption of information and communication technologies (ICTs) over this period. This paper builds a framework that analyzes the extent to which recent studies and reports have been able to establish a link between the use of new technologies and changes in transportation behavior. The paper also attempts to establish whether there is a difference in the intensity and manner of technology use between age cohorts and in the manner in which technology use affects transportation behavior. Finally, the paper assesses major gaps in the current understanding of how ICTs may affect travel behavior.
Rail Passengers’ Time Use and Utility Assessment
Authors: Susilo Yusak O. , Lyons Glenn , Jain Juliet , Atkins Steve
Published: February 2013

This paper uses data from Great Britain's National Passenger Survey 2010 to examine the travel time use of rail passengers and their indicative assessment of the utility of that time use. The paper explores the impacts of individuals’ sociodemographic characteristics, the activities undertaken, and the perceived difficulties that may be faced by the travelers on their assessment of travel time use utility. The study showed that only 13% of travelers considered their travel time to be wasted time. However, this result varied by journey purpose, traveling class (first or standard class), gender, and journey length. The study showed that the positive or negative appreciation by passengers of their journey time was a result not only of various combinations of onboard activity engagements, but also of the smoothness of the overall journey experience. The ability to work or study on the train most significantly increased individual appreciation of time use. However, a delay on an individual's train journey also had a major influence on the reduction of his or her perceived value of the travel time spent. Information and communication technology devices that enable travelers to watch film or video, play games, or check e-mails were more appreciated than those devices that provide access to music, podcasts, or social networking sites. The paper joins others in questioning the assumptions made in economic appraisals that travel time is unproductive. The paper concludes with a call for more substantive and targeted data collection efforts within travel behavior research devoted to further unraveling the phenomenon of the positive utility of travel.
Abdominal Sacral Colpopexy In Treatment Of Vaginal Vault Prolapse: By Less Invasive Method
Authors: Nurun Nahar , Kundu Molina Rani , Akterun Naher
Published: February 2013

Objective: To assess the outcomes of abdominal sacral colpopexy in less invasive method. Study design: It was a prospective study conducted in Comilla Medical College Hospital and Comilla General Hospital during the period from 2005 to 2009.Method: Thirty women with vaginal vault prolapse were selected by inclusion and exclusion criteria in a consecutive, exhaustive method. Primary outcome measurements were included subjective, objective and patient-determined success rate. Secondary outcome included the impact on bowel, bladder, sexual function and quality of life. Result: Result shows that, vault prolapse is mostly associated with older patients, age more than sixty (66.7%), para >5 (60%) and menopausal women (66.7%). Vault prolapse was mostly associated with cystocele (93.3%), stress incontinence (76.7%) and more common following abdominal hysterectomy (70%). During operation the dissection was less (3-4cm). Average operating time was 54.33/min; average estimated blood loss was 49.17/ml. One patient required blood transfusion, one developed haematoma during surgery, no gut injury or haemodynamic instability developed. Post operatively, no internal haemorrhage, 4 patient developed fever (13.3%), wound infection one (3.3%), UTI 4 patients (13.3%), no voiding difficulty or thromboembolism and one patient developed mesh rejection (3.3%). After one year follow-up success rate was 96.7%. Conclusion: Abdominal sacral colpopexy is a safe and effective method for correction of vaginal vault prolapse. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i1.13723 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(1) : 3-8
Incisional Hernia of Elective Midline Caesarean Section: Incidence and Risk Factors
Authors: Al-Dahamsheh Md Hasan
Published: February 2013

Objective: To analyze the incidence and risk factors for development hernia after elective  lower midline caesarean section(ElMCS).Method: A prospective cohort study of 284 women for development of incisional hernia after  repeated elective midline CS. Patients enrollment done from April 13th 2001 and December  12th 2002. follow up to two years for hernia development. Hernias were identified radiographically  or during physical exam. 2-year hernia rates were calculated. Patients were distributed in two  groups, study group consisted of women who had incisional hernia and control group consisted  from women who had not within 2-years postoperatively. Within the two groups potential risk  factors (age, body mass index (BMI), parity, number of previous cesareans, chronic cough,  diabetes mellitus(DM), heart disease, low serum albumin, type of previous incision, anesthesia  type, presence of postoperative fever and wound complications) were collected and statistically  analyzed with the development of incisional hernia (IH).  Setting: Prince Hashem Ben Al-Hussein Hospital, Jordanian Royal Medical Services of Jordan  / Zarqa.  Results: The 2-year hernia was 5.6 % .Independent risk factors of IH development include:  increase in number of previous CSs, wound complications and obesity.  Conclusion: An incisional hernia is higher than previously estimated in women undergoing  ElMCS. Counseling on the family size will reduce the chance for further CS with its associated  risk. Also measures to reduce wound infection after surgery may reduce the incidence of  incisional hernia following ElMCS. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i1.13724 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(1) : 9-14
Serum Magnesium in Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia
Authors: Nahar K , Yasmin H , Shamsuzzaman L
Published: February 2013

Objective: To assess the serum magnesium level of pregnant women with pre-eclampsia and eclampsia in Mymensingh Medical College & Hospital (MMCH).   Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the   department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Mymensingh Medical College & Hospital (MMCH) and  Prof. Muhammed Hossain Central Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU). The serum magnesium level were estimated in 60 study subjects who were pregnant   women with pre-eclampsia & eclampsia and of 60 control subjects who were the normotensive pregnant women by photometric test using xylidyl blue.   Results: The mean (±SD) serum magnesium of the control and study group were (2.29 ± 0.28 mg/dl) & (1.84 ±0.26 mg/dl) respectively. The difference in serum magnesium level between the two groups was statistically highly significant (p=<0.001). In the study group the mean (±SD) serum magnesium level of the pre-eclamptic & eclamptic groups were (1.9150 ± 0.26 mg/dl) & (1.8063 ±0.25 mg/dl) respectively and the difference between them was also statistically significant (p=<0.05).   Conclusion: From the result it could be concluded that hypomagnesaemia can be said to be one of the etiological factors in pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Hence by estimating serum magnesium during antenatal period pre-eclampsia can be predicted and eclampsia can be   prevented early. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i1.13725 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(1) : 15-19
Society News Vol.25(1)
Authors: Chowdhury Saleha Begum
Published: February 2013

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i1.13733 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(1) : 44-45
Editorial Vol.25(2)
Authors: Chowdhury TA
Published: February 2013

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i2.13738 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(2) : 48-49
A Comparative Study of Result of Treatment of Cancer Cervix Patients Treated by Two Separate Schedules of Radiotherapy
Authors: Akhtar Parveen Shahida , Hossain M Md Shakhawat , Masud Zafor Md , Ruksana Naheed , Nahar Shamsun , Nahar Lutfun , Nessa Jebun , Sharif Md Rezaul
Published: February 2013

Background: Cervical cancer is the most common cancer of Bangladeshi women diagnosed mostly (>80%) at stage II and stage III. Rdaiotherapy (both teletherapy and brachytherapy) is the most important modality of treatment at these stages.Objective: To compare the local control, diseases free survival and overall survival between the (cancer cervix) patients treated randomly by two schedules of radiotherapy. Method: From June 1996 to June 2005, patients with histologically confirmed carcinoma cervix (Ca.cervix) were treated by external beam therapy (EBRT) as well as intra cavitery brachytherapy (ICRT) along with concurrent/sequential chemotherapy with cisplatin and 5- Fluorouracil. EBRT was given by cobalt60 teletherapy machine and ICRT by caesium137 low dose rate machine. The patients were divided into two groups according to treatment schedules. Group I: the patients in this group received EBRT in whole pelvis in two steps, first with open field upto 10-20 Gy then by applying midline shield with lead block 30-40Gy in 25-28 total fractions, five days a week; they also received 50-70 Gy to point A by ICRT in 2-4 weekly fractions. Group II: patients in this group received with open field a dose of 45-50Gy in 25-28 fractions, 5 days a week by EBRT and 25-30 Gy at point A by ICRT in 1-2 weekly fractions.Result: In Group I, 96 out of 101 and in Group II, 104 out of 118 patients were eligible for evaluation. In both groups patients were distributed according to stages and age more or less equally; their age range were 30-70 years and mean age was 47.2 years in Group I and age range were 25-80 years and mean age was 46 years in Group II. Squamous cell carcinoma were found (90%) and performance status was WHO grade 0-1 (>75%) in both groups. Local control of disease at 5 years was 65% in group I and 51% in group II. Overall survival at 2 years, 5 years, 7 years and 9 years in group I, was 71%, 64%, 55%, 46% and in group II, 54%,50%, 43%,32% respectively. Distant metastasis occurred in 22% in-group I and 28% in-group II. Lymph node, lung, liver, peritoneum were common site of metastasis. Proctitis, cystitis, vaginal stenosis in group I was 80%, 33% 16% and in Group II 29%, 13% and 5% respectively. Conclusion: External beam therapy and brachytherapy was effective treatment in carcinoma. Cervix in both operable and inoperable stages. In small volume of tumor, both schedules of radiotherapy were more or less equivalent but in bulky diseases Group I schedule that was higher dose by brachytherapy at point A showed better result; though the complication was more DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i2.13739 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(2) : 50-58
Management of Uterine Inversion: An Obstetric Catastrophe
Authors: Habib Asma
Published: February 2013

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i2.13744 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(2) : 77-84
Spontaneous Rupture of Uterine Veins In Pregnancy
Authors: Shahnewaj KH , Al Sayed Md , Jabin Kauser
Published: February 2013

Spontaneous rupture of uterine vessels during pregnancy is a rare cause of shock that has a  high rate of maternal and foetal loss. Though the usual presentation is of maternal shock, it  is necessary to have in mind that possibility of blood vessels rupture may be in cases of  abdominal pain & hypotension of unknown origin during pregnancy. In such an event an exploratory laparatomy followed by caesarean with ligation of the uterine  vessel or its branch can help in preventing a maternal mortality. The advent of modern  resuscitative facilities, anaesthesia techniques have lowered mortality associated with this condition from 49% to 3.6%. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjog.v25i2.13745 Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2010; Vol. 25(2) : 85-86
Retrofitting Conventional Electric Domestic Hot Water Heaters to Solar Water Heating Systems in Single-Family Houses—Model Validation and Optimization
Authors: Bernardo Luis
Published: February 2013

System cost reductions and development of standardised plug-and-function systems are some of the most important goals for solar heating technology development. Retrofitting hot water boilers in single-family houses when installing solar collectors has the potential to significantly reduce both material and installation costs. In this study, the TRNSYS simulation models of the retrofitting solar thermal system were validated against measurements. Results show that the validated models are in good agreement with measurements. On an annual basis a deviation of 2.5% out of 1099 kWh was obtained between the auxiliary energy from results and from the simulation model for a complete system. Using the validated model a system optimization was carried out with respect to control strategies for auxiliary heating, heat losses and volume of auxiliary storage. A sensitivity analysis was carried out regarding different volumes of retrofitted hot water boiler, DHW profiles and climates. It was estimated that, with adequate improvements, extended annual solar fractions of 60%, 78% and 81% can be achieved for Lund (Sweden), Lisbon (Portugal) and Lusaka (Zambia), respectively. The correspondent collector area was 6, 4 and 3 m2, respectively. The studied retrofitted system achieves a comparable performance with conventional solar thermal systems with the potential to reduce the investment cost.
Effect of Artocarpus communis Extract on UVB Irradiation-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Hairless Mice
Authors: Lee Chiang-Wen , Ko Horng-Huey , Chai Chee-Yin , Chen Wan-Tzu , Lin Chun-Ching , Yen Feng-Lin
Published: February 2013

Administration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents is an effective strategy for preventing ultraviolet (UV) irradiation-induced skin damage. Artocarpus communis possesses several pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammation. However, the photoprotective activity of methanol extract of A. communis heartwood (ACM) in ultraviolet irradiation-induced skin damage has not yet been investigated. The present study was performed using ultraviolet absorption, histopathological observation, antioxidant and anti-inflammation assays to elucidate the mechanism of the photoprotective activity of ACM. Our results indicated that ACM displayed a UVA and UVB absorption effect and then effectively decreased scaly skin, epidermis thickness and sunburn cells during ultraviolet irradiation in hairless mice. ACM not only decreased ultraviolet irradiation-mediated oxidative stress, including lowering the overproduction of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05), but also reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin 1β. Additionally, ACM can decrease the synthesis of cytosolic phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase, inducible nitric oxide synthase and vascular cell adhesion molecular-1 via inhibiting TNF-α-independent pathways (p < 0.05) in UVB-mediated inflammation and formation of sunburn cells. Consequently, we concluded that ACM extract has a photoprotective effect against UVB-induced oxidative stress and inflammation due to its sunscreen property, and its topical formulations may be developed as therapeutic and/or cosmetic products in further studies.
A multilocus phylogenetic analysis of Escallonia (Escalloniaceae): Diversification in montane South America
Authors: Zapata Felipe
Published: February 2013

• Premise of the study: The mountains of South America are hotspots of plant diversity. How this diversity originated and evolved, and what roles geographic and environmental factors may have played in the diversification of lineages occurring in these regions, is not well understood. Escallonia, a morphologically and ecologically diverse group of shrubs and trees widely distributed in these mountains, provides an ideal opportunity for studying the historical underpinnings that have shaped the extraordinarily distinctive, diverse, and endangered flora of these regions, and for evaluating the role of abiotic factors in the process of lineage divergence.

• Methods: I analyzed neutral DNA sequence data from two nuclear loci and one chloroplast locus using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian phylogenetic approaches. I used a Bayesian approach to analyze the geographic structure of gene trees, and a phylogenetically controlled decomposition of the variance in bioclimatic variables to analyze the eco‐climatic structure of gene trees.

• Key Results: I found that Escallonia (1) is monophyletic, (2) has a remarkable level of geographic and climatic phylogenetic structure, (3) likely originated in the tropical Andes, and (4) has a widespread absence of species exclusivity.

• Conclusions: Geography played an important role early in the history of Escallonia by separating populations that later diversify likely in isolation. Although geographic isolation was generally accompanied by changes in climate, it is not clear whether environmental gradients along elevation have influenced more recent diversification events or whether species have evolved broader environmental tolerances.
Evaluation of physical fitness in police dogs using an incremental exercise test
Authors: Alves J. , Santos A. , Brites P. , Ferreira-Dias G.
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using blood lactate (BL), heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (RT) to evaluate the physical fitness of police dogs using a treadmill incremental exercise test. The animals (n=20) were exercised using a protocol that consisted of five stages of six minutes each at increasing speeds of 9.66, 11.27, 12.87, 14.48 and 16.09 km/h with a slope adjusted to 10%. The test ended when the animal completed the five steps or when exhaustion was reached, either during or between steps. BL from the marginal ear vein, HR and RT were measured on the police dogs at rest (T0), after each step (T1 to T5) and after a recovery period of 20 minutes (T6). The mean duration of exercise was 19 min 17 s (standard deviation ± 5 min 30 s), with only one animal completing all five stages. In the case of BL, no differences were found when comparing consecutive stages, but when compared to the values at rest (T0), a significant increase was found in T2 (P<0.05), T3, T4 and T6 (P<0.001). When the RT was considered, an increase was found between T0 and T3 (P<0.05). HR was the parameter in which the largest variations were observed, between T1 and T2 (P<0.05), and T1, T4 and T6 when compared to the stage immediately before (P<0.01). When compared to T0, all stages showed differences (P<0.001). However, no correlation was found between the parameters evaluated in this test. This study showed the feasibility of evaluating the physical fitness of police dogs using a blood sample from the marginal ear vein and a lactate portable measuring device. It was also found that the values recorded in animals previously familiarised with the treadmill were similar to those that were not. This work provides data that can be used in training and testing of dogs that perform this kind of work, and can be the basis for further studies.
A comparison of a portable blood lactate analyser and laboratory plasma analysis of blood samples from exercised horses
Authors: Stefánsdóttir G. J. , Ragnarsson S. , Jansson A.
Published: February 2013

Quick, simple methods for blood lactate analysis could be helpful in evaluating xercise response in the field, but methods validated for analysis of blood collected after high intensity exercise in horses are scarce. The aim of the present study was to compare the results obtained using a commercial, portable blood lactate analyser with those from laboratory plasma analysis of blood samples from horses performing intensive exercise. Venous blood samples were collected from 220 horses within 5 min of performing exercise at a mean peak heart rate of 222 ±9 beats/min. The samples were kept chilled and analysed using portable analyser within 10 min of collection. Samples were also centrifuged and the plasma frozen (-20 °C) until analysed using an enzymatic and spectrophotometric laboratory lactate analysis. There was a significant (P<0.05) correlation (R=0.94) between the methods at portable analyser values <12.0 mmol/l, but at higher values there was no correlation. There was a significant effect of method (P<0.0001) and portable analyser values were 21% lower than plasma lactate concentrations in the range 2.0-12.0 mmol/l. It is concluded that the portable analysis correlated well to a laboratory plasma analysis at portable analyser values <12.0 mmol/l and that the portable analyser appears to be a safe method for lactate analysis during training conditions, when very high lactate concentrations are not expected. However, users should be aware that the results underestimate the corresponding plasma values by approximately 20%.
Faculty Members as Students in the Same Institution: Implications for the Learning Environment
Authors: Gul Raisa B. , Barolia Rubina , Meherali Salima M.
Published: February 2013

Because of the increasing demand for nurses entering professional practice to have a baccalaureate degree, the pressure to have faculty members prepared at the graduate level is also mounting. Due to personal, economic, or organizational factors, faculty members may undertake graduate studies at the institutions where they teach. No research has been found regarding the implications of nursing faculty members becoming students in the same institution. Thus, this qualitative descriptive study was performed to understand the implications. Data were collected through semistructured interviews from 12 participants. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim for content analysis. The findings revealed that faculty members who became graduate students in their own institution had advantages that facilitated their learning. However, they received mixed messages about their identity as both a student and a faculty member. Implications for this dual identity on the learning environment are discussed.
Intravitreal Implant Migration Into Anterior Chamber in a Post-Vitrectomy Eye With Central Retinal Vein Occlusion and Persistent Macular Edema
Authors: Turaka Kiran , Kwong Henry M. , De Souza Stephen
Published: February 2013

The authors report the case of a 76-year-old man with a history of central retinal vein occlusion with persistent macular edema in the pseudophakic left eye, which was vitrectomized after complicated retinal detachment surgery. Two weeks after treatment with an intravitreal dexamethasone implant, the implant migrated into the anterior chamber. Visual acuity was hand motion in the right eye and 20/40 in the left eye with corneal edema. One week later, the implant relocated back into the vitreous cavity without surgical intervention, with a marked decrease in corneal edema and improved visual acuity (20/30) in the left eye. Weak zonules and posture change may have caused implant migration in this patient.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina.
2013;44:196–197]
Diégesis y mímesis de Le lit: Dominique Rolin vs Marion Hänsel
Authors: Arráez Llobregat José Luis
Published: February 2013

El presente trabajo constituye un estudio comparativo y narratológico entre la autoficción Le lit (1960) de Dominique Rolin y la adaptación cinematográfica realizada por Marion Hänsel (1982). Partiendo de un análisis estructural de los textos literario y fílmico, respectivamente iluminados por las corrientes estéticas a las que pertenecen, se establecerá la especificidad de cada discurso. Ello permitirá considerar la naturaleza de las transformaciones que la directora realiza en el guión en el proceso de transmodalización.
Farida Benlyazid: cine feminista sobre la identidad personal
Authors: Torres Calzada Katjia
Published: February 2013

El presente artículo analiza la visión íntima del conflicto de identidad de la mujer marroquí musulmana –entendido como la tensión entre la cultura colonial francesa y la árabe musulmana– ofrecida por la cineasta tangerina Farida Benlyazid en su opera prima como directora y guionista, Bab samá maftúh / Une porte sur le ciel (“La puerta abierta del cielo”, 1988). Benlyazid es una pionera del cine marroquí en el tratamiento del papel de la mujer musulmana en el seno del patriarcado marroquí por su particular concepción del feminismo y por su formación multicultural, que le permite emplear un lenguaje simbólico para universalizar su cine y transmitir el valor de ritos y rituales atávicos en el imaginario colectivo popular marroquí así como en el de su imaginario íntimo.
Mujeres tras la cámara: panorama de las cineastas italianas de las últimas décadas, con una entrevista a la directora siciliana Costanza Quatriglio
Authors: González de Sande Estela
Published: February 2013

La historia reciente de la cinematografía italiana cuenta con numerosas mujeres que, a pesar del escaso reconocimiento y la poca difusión de sus trabajos, han contribuido a la conformación de la diversidad y la heterogeneidad imprescindibles en cualquier disciplina artística. El desconocimiento de sus producciones da lugar a un conocimiento parcial del cine italiano contemporáneo. Así pues, este estudio pretende mostrar esa parte menos prodigada del cine a través del análisis de las principales cineastas italianas de las últimas décadas, su universo común y sus particularidades individuales. A modo de epílogo, se presenta una entrevista a la directora Costanza Quatriglio que, además de revelar las claves de su obra, nos ofrece una reflexión inédita sobre el estado actual del cine italiano y el papel de la mujer en éste.
Llamas y rescoldos nacionales: Con la vida hicieron fuego, novela de Jesús Evaristo Casariego (1953) y película de Ana Mariscal (1957)
Authors: Alfonso García M.ª del Carmen
Published: February 2013

Este artículo estudia la novela de Jesús Evaristo Casariego titulada Con la vida hicieron fuego, publicada en 1953, y la adaptación cinematográfica de la obra que Ana Mariscal realizó en 1957. A partir de las similitudes y diferencias que revela el análisis comparativo del texto y el filme, el trabajo busca establecer el sentido de ambas propuestas artísticas desde la perspectiva que proporciona el marco teórico relativo a la construcción de la identidad nacional y sus relaciones con la de género.
La voluntad de valor en el cine de Isabel Coixet
Authors: Donapetry María
Published: February 2013

Se examinan aquí algunas de las actitudes y preocupaciones éticas del cine de Isabel Coixet. Se presta particular atención a los posibles significados del silencio en La vida secreta de las palabras, y a la transformación de la mirada masculina en el caso de Elegy. En ambas películas se considera que Coixet expresa sus ideas a través de las emociones como manera de alcanzar un tipo de conciencia que une los afectos y la ética.
Ngozi Onwurah y Pratibha Parmar: de África a Europa
Authors: Moreno Álvarez Alejandra
Published: February 2013

La directora nigeriana Ngozi Onwurah y la keniata Pratibha Parmar utilizan la gran pantalla para deconstruir el mito creado por occidente en torno a las mujeres africanas. Lo hacen desde la diáspora, ya que ambas viven y producen su trabajo en Inglaterra, plasmando en sus documentales, cortos y largometrajes el difícil y largo proceso de convivialidad no ya interracial sino también sexual en el Reino Unido. Onwurah y Parmar hacen uso de sus cámaras para denunciar el acoso sufrido por ambas tanto por su color de piel como por, en el caso de Parmar, su homosexualidad. Ambas coinciden en señalar el reto que les presenta obtener subvenciones, ya que debido a la temática de sus trabajos la audiencia se supone minoritaria. Su propósito no es solo llegar a las minorías, sino que su mensaje sea visto y escuchado por el público en general.
Voces canónicas y miradas inocentes: definiendo el Norte cinematográfico
Authors: Suárez Lafuente M.ª Socorro
Published: February 2013

Los jóvenes países nórdicos, en los que predomina la naturaleza sobre los monumentos, han buscado sus primeros guiones cinematográficos entre las obras literarias canónicas de sus diferentes lenguas, porque aquellas habían inscrito ya el desarrollo social de los diferentes países. Una vez implementada su identidad histórico-cultural, muy adelantado el siglo XX, el cine nórdico pasa a centrarse en la construcción identitaria individual, siendo la infancia y la juventud protagonistas favoritas de muchas películas. En el último tercio del siglo, al amparo de las diferentes academias de cine, surge un número sustancial de mujeres que dirigen; haré una referencia general a varias de ellas y sus películas y prestaré algo más de atención a dos directoras fundamentales para la historia del cine en general: Mai Zetterling, que supone una clara internacionalización de temas y estilo en el cine sueco, y Liv Ullmann, que nos proporciona la mirada clásica artística del cine noruego.
Challenges in the teaching of evolution in the life sciences classroom.
Authors: De Beer Josef J. , Henning Elizabeth
Published: February 2013

In this article the authors report on research that was conducted about teachers’ views on evolution, which was introduced as a theme in the school life sciences curriculum in 2008. This innovation in the curriculum has been met with mixed reactions. Whereas some teachers embrace this new theme, many teachers are opposed to the teaching of evolution. The article reports on an inquiry that was conducted amongst 255 teachers and in which survey questionnaires were used to collect qualitative data, which was analysed for its discourse. The discourse of the teachers shows that many of them cannot reconcile their religious faith with their teaching and that they may teach the ‘facts’ of evolution, but make sure that they discredit evolution as a theory. This raises serious concerns about teacher education and curriculum development. The authors examine these issues through the lens of conceptual change theory.
Determinants of Mortality from Severe Dengue in Brazil: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Moraes Giselle Hentzy , de Fátima Duarte Eliane , Duarte Elisabeth Carmen
Published: February 2013

Although increases in severity of mortality from dengue infection have been observed in Brazil, their determinants are not fully known. A case–control study was conducted by using the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System, including patients with severe dengue during 2000–2005. Cases were defined as patients that died and controls were those who survived. Hierarchical multivariate logistic regression was performed. During the study period, there were 12,321 severe cases of dengue and 1,062 deaths. Factors independently associated with death included age ≥ 50 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.59–3.29), < 4 years of schooling (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.47–2.28), a rural area (OR =2.84, 95% CI = 2.19–3.69), hospitalization (OR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.17–1.73), and a high hematocrit (OR = 2.46, 95% CI = 1.85–3.28). Factors associated with a lower chance of dying were female sex (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.67–0.87), history of previous dengue (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.62–0.99), positive tourniquet test result (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.33–0.66), laboratory diagnosis of dengue (OR = 0.75, 95% CI = 0.61–0.92), and a platelet count of 50,000–100,000 cells/mm3 (OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.36–0.87). The risk profile identified in this study should serve to direct public health interventions to minimize deaths.
Quantification of Leishmania infantum Kinetoplast DNA for Monitoring the Response to Meglumine Antimoniate Therapy in Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Pourabbas Bahman , Ghadimi Moghadam Abdolkarim , Pouladfar Gholamreza , Rezaee Zahra , Alborzi Abdolvahab
Published: February 2013

Meglumine antimoniate (Glucantime) remains the therapeutic cornerstone of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Twenty-one VL patients were treated with Glucantime, extending for 1 week after defervescence. For monitoring the response, Leishmania infantum kinetoplast DNA loads were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay in the blood. The maximum duration of treatment was 14 days. The loads before treatment ranged from 8 to 1,300,000 parasites/mL (mean = 73,095 parasites/mL), and the mean values on days 3, 7, 14, 28, and 90 were 4,902, 506, 6.33, 0.26, and 0.14, respectively. The loads decline to < 1 parasite/mL for 16 (76%) and 20 (95%) patients on days 14 and 28, respectively, and they decline for all patients by day 90. Results showed a dramatic decrease of the parasite loads, although complete clearance was not accomplished at the end of treatment. Only one relapse (4.5%) was observed. The parasite load can also serve as a dependable index for monitoring the response to Glucantime.
Variation in Mitochondrial NADH Dehydrogenase Subunit 5 and NADH Dehydrogenase Subunit 4 Genes in the Chagas Disease Vector Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae)
Authors: Fernández Cintia J. , Pérez de Rosas Alicia R. , García Beatriz A.
Published: February 2013

Variation in mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 (ND5) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4 (ND4) genes was surveyed in Triatoma infestans from 24 localities of Argentina. The DNA sequence comparisons of 2,183 basepairs of the mitochondrial genome, which include the complete sequence of ND5 (1,712 basepairs) and 401 basepairs of ND4 genes, showed 19 haplotypes determined by 48 variable sites and a nucleotide diversity value of 0.292%. Twenty-six (65%) substitutions were synonymous, and there were 14 (35%) predicted amino acid replacements in ND5. In ND4, 5 (62.5%) substitutions were synonymous and 3 (37.5%) were replacement sites. Samples from six localities studied shared one haplotype and the rest of the localities had different haplotypes. The amplified regions should be useful for population genetic studies.
Perceived Health Benefits from Yoga among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Van Puymbroeck Marieke , Burk Brooke N. , Shinew Kimberly J. , Kuhlenschmidt Megan Cronan , Schmid Arlene A.
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

The purpose of this paper is to describe the health benefits reported by breast cancer survivors following an 8-week yoga intervention.

Design.

This phenomenological study employed three focus groups with six breast cancer survivors each (n = 18) following the yoga intervention.

Setting.

The focus groups and yoga classes were conducted in a large hospital in a midsized town in the Midwest.

Subjects.

Eighteen female breast cancer survivors who were at least 9 months posttreatment participated in the focus groups following the 8-week yoga intervention.

Intervention.

An 8-week yoga intervention designed specifically for this population was led by a yoga therapist.

Measures.

A semistructured interview guide was utilized to guide each focus group.

Analysis.

Interpretative phenomenological analysis methods were employed to explore breast cancer survivors' experiences after participating in an 8-week yoga intervention.

Results.

The findings revealed that the women in the study found health promoting benefits in the areas of physical health and healing, mental health and healing, and social health and healing.

Conclusions.

Yoga may be an important tool in the healing process for breast cancer survivors.
Daily Pedometer Steps among Older Men: Associations with Health-Related Quality of Life and Psychosocial Health
Authors: Vallance Jeff K. , Eurich Dean , Lavallee Celeste , Johnson Steven T.
Published: February 2013

Purpose.

To determine the associations of daily pedometer steps with health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychosocial health.

Design.

Cross-sectional.

Setting.

Alberta, Canada.

Subjects.

Three hundred eighty-five older-aged men 55 years of age and older.

Measures.

Subjects completed a mailed survey that assessed HRQoL (RAND-12 Health Status Inventory [RAND-12]), depression, anxiety, and satisfaction with life. Steps/day were assessed with a pedometer via a 3-day step-monitoring period.

Analysis.

Average pedometer steps/d were categorized into quartiles (Qs). The primary model assessed the association between average pedometer steps/d as the independent variable of interest and our dependent variables of interest (physical, mental, and global health component scores of the RAND-12).

Results.

For HRQoL, all three adjusted models (i.e., physical, mental, and global health) indicated a significant linear trend between HRQoL indices across pedometer step Qs, with participants in Q3 and Q4 demonstrating higher physical, mental, and global health compared to participants in the lowest Q of pedometer steps (Q1) (all p < .05). For depression, significant differences were observed between Q1 and Q3 (Mdiff = 3.3, p = .006, η2 = .019) and Q1 and Q4 (Mdiff = 2.7, p = .025, η2 = .013).

Conclusion.

Higher average steps/d were significantly associated with HRQoL across all domains. Older men in the higher Qs of pedometer steps/d reported less depressive symptoms compared to those in the lowest Q of pedometer steps/d.
Targeted Alpha-Particle Immunotherapy with Bismuth-213 and Actinium-225 for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Jurcic Joseph G
Published: February 2013

Lintuzumab, a humanized anti-CD33 antibody, targets myeloid leukemia cells and has modest activity against acute myeloid leukemia (AML). To increase the antibody's potency yet avoid nonspecific cytotoxicity seen with β-emitting isotopes, lintuzumab was conjugated to the α-emitters bismuth-213 (213Bi) and actinium-225 (225Ac). The 46-minute half-life of 213Bi limits its widespread use. Therefore, 225Ac was also conjugated to various antibodies using DOTA-SCN. We conducted a phase I trial of 213Bi-lintuzumab and subsequently administered cytarabine with 213Bi-lintuzumab in a phase I/II study. The toxicity and biological activity of 225Ac-linutuzumab in patients with relapsed/refractory AML in a phase I dose-escalation trial was determined. An initial phase I trial demonstrated the feasibility, safety and antileukemic activity of 213Bi-lintuzumab. 213Bi-lintuzumab produced responses in 24% of AML patients receiving doses ≥ 37 MBq/kg after partial cytoreduction with cytarabine. 225Ac-labeled immunoconjugates killed in vitro at doses at least 1,000 times lower than 213Bi analogs. Eighteen patients with relapsed/refractory AML received 18.5 to 148 kBq/kg of 225Ac-lintuzumab in a phase I study. Dose-limiting toxicities were myelosuppression lasting >35 days in one patient and death due to sepsis in two patients. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was 111 KBg/kg. Bone marrow blast reductions were seen across all dose levels. Targeted α- particle immunotherapy with 213Bi- and 225Ac-lintuzumab is safe, has significant antileukemic effects, and can produce remissions after partial cytoreduction.

How to cite this article

Jurcic JG. Targeted Alpha-Particle Immunotherapy with Bismuth-213 and Actinium-225 for Acute Myeloid Leukemia. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2013;47(1): 14-17.
A Bridge not too Far: Personalized Medicine with the use of Theragnostic Radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Srivastava Suresh C
Published: February 2013

This article deals primarily with the selection criteria, production, and the nuclear, physical, and chemical properties of certain dual-purpose radionuclides, including those that are currently being used, or studied and evaluated, and those that warrant future investigations. Various scientific and practical issues related to the production and availability of these radionuclides is briefly addressed. At brookhaven national laboratory (BNL), we have developed a paradigm that involves specific individual ‘dual-purpose’ radionuclides or radionuclide pairs with emissions suitable for both imaging and therapy, and which when molecularly (selectively) targeted using appropriate carriers, would allow pre-therapy low-dose imaging plus higher-dose therapy in the same patient. We have made an attempt to sort out and organize a number of such theragnostic radionuclides and radionuclide pairs that may thus potentially bring us closer to the age-long dream of personalized medicine for performing tailored low-dose molecular imaging (SPECT/CT or PET/CT) to provide the necessary pretherapy information on biodistribution, dosimetry, the limiting or critical organ or tissue, and the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), etc., followed by performing higher-dose targeted molecular therapy in the same patient with the same radiopharmaceutical. As an example, our preclinical and clinical studies with the theragnostic radionuclide Sn-117m are covered in somewhat greater detail.

A troublesome problem that remains yet to be fully resolved is the lack of availability, in sufficient quantities and at reasonable cost, of a majority of the best candidate theragnostic radionuclides in a no-carrier-added (NCA) form. In this regard, a summary description of recently developed new or modified methods at BNL for the production of five theragnostic radionuclide/radionuclide pair items, whose nuclear, physical, and chemical characteristics seem to show promise for therapeutic oncology and for treating other disorders that respond to radionuclide therapy, is provided.

How to cite this article

Srivastava SC. A Bridge not too Far: Personalized Medicine with the use of Theragnostic Radiopharmaceuticals. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2013;47(1):31-46.
DNA from lake sediments reveals the long-term dynamics and diversity of Synechococcus assemblages
Authors: Domaizon I. , Savichtcheva O. , Debroas D. , Arnaud F. , Villar C. , Pignol C. , Alric B. , Perga M. E.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. While picocyanobacteria (PC) are important actors in carbon and nutrient cycles in aquatic systems, factors controlling their interannual dynamics and diversity are poorly known due to the general lack of long-term monitoring surveys. This study intended to fill this gap by applying a DNA-based paleolimnological approach to sediment records from a deep subalpine lake that has experienced dramatic changes in environmental conditions during the last century (eutrophication, re-oligotrophication and large-scale climate changes). We particularly investigated the long-term (100 yr) diversity and dynamics of Synechococcus, PC that have presumably been affected by both the lake trophic status changes and global warming. The lake's morphological and environmental conditions provided ideal conditions for DNA preservation in the sediment archives. Generalised additive models applied to quantitative PCR (qPCR) results highlighted that an increase in summer temperature could have a significant positive impact on the relative abundance of Synechococcus (fraction of Synechococcus in total cyanobacteria). The diversity of Synechococcus in Lake Bourget was studied by phylogenetic analyses of the 16S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Up to 23 different OTUs (based on 16S rRNA), which fell into various cosmopolitan or endemic clusters, were identified in samples from the past 100 yr. Moreover, study of the ITS revealed a higher diversity within the major 16S rRNA-defined OTUs. Changes in PC diversity were related to the lake's trophic status. Overall, qPCR and sequencing results showed that environmental changes (here, in temperature and phosphorus concentration) affected Synechococcus community dynamics and structure, translating into changes in genotype composition. These results also helped to re-evaluate the geographical distribution of some Synechococcus clusters. Providing such novel insights into the long-term history of an important group of primary producers, this study illustrates the promising approach that consists in coupling molecular tools and paleolimnology to reconstruct a lake's biodiversity history.