bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Violence of Conversion: Proselytization and Interreligious Controversy in the Work of Swami Dayananda Saraswati
Authors: Bauman Chad M.
Published: June 2015

Critics of Christianity in India have frequently accused Christianity of being a predatory, imperialistic religion with absolutist tendencies, and have framed Christian evangelism as an aggressive, uncouth act. More recently, however, and in an idiom that resonates with many contemporary Indians, Swami Dayananda Saraswati (1930-) has made the more controversial claim that the attempt to convert another person is itself an act of violence. In three parts, the paper 1) describes Dayananda’s claims, while bringing them into conversation with the arguments of earlier critics of Christianity (e.g., Mahatma Gandhi, Sita Ram Goel, Ashok Chowgule, Arun Shourie), 2) analyzes and critique Dayananda’s use of the term “violence,” and 3) demonstrate how the claim that conversion is an act of violence blurs somewhat easily into a justification of acts of violence against those who attempt to convert others. In the end, I argue that whether Dayananda’s claim that proselytization is a form of violence makes sense depends not only on one’s definition of “violence,” but also on one’s definition of “religion.”
Migration und Gesundheit
Authors: Razum Oliver , Spallek Jacob
Published: June 2015

Deutschland ist ein Zuwanderungsland. Hier lebende Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund sollten den gleichen Zugang zu gesundheitsbezogenen Leistungen haben wie die gesamte Bevölkerung. Es bestehen jedoch noch Zugangshindernisse sowie Unterschiede im Nutzungsverhalten und bei den gesundheitlichen Ergebnissen. Diversity Management wird als eine Strategie diskutiert, um unterschiedliche Bedarfe und Bedürfnisse zu berücksichtigen und gesundheitliche Chancengleichheit zu erreichen.
Migration und Schwangerschaft: Aspekte der Prävention und Versorgung
Authors: Sievers Erika
Published: June 2015

17,6% der Neugeborenen in Deutschland hatten im Jahr 2013 eine Mutter nicht-deutscher Nationalität. Im früheren Bundesgebiet mit Berlin-Ost sind dies 19,7%; in den neuen Bundesländern 5,0%. Perinatale Mortalität und Säuglingssterblichkeit sind Indikatoren für die prä-, peri- und postnatale Qualität der Versorgung. Bei ausländischen Kindern in Deutschland sind sie erhöht. Prävention und Versorgung in der Schwangerschaft müssen der kulturellen und sprachlichen Diversität angepasst sein und insbesondere immigrierenden Frauen ein adäquates Angebot bieten.
Perinataldaten bei Migrantinnen – besser, schlechter oder gleich gut?
Authors: David Matthias
Published: June 2015

In den Ländern, die in den 60er Jahren eine Gastarbeiterpolitik praktizierten, wurde dem Thema „Migration und Gesundheit“ bis vor Kurzem nur wenig Bedeutung beigemessen, da man annahm, dass es sich um ein vorrübergehendes Phänomen (Rotations-, Rückmigration) handeln würde. Anders wurde dies Frage in den alten Einwanderungsländern wie den USA, Kanada und Australien gewichtet, wo das öffentliche Gesundheitswesen und die Forschung sich bereits relativ früh mit der Frage, ob und wie sich Migrationsprozesse auf die Gesundheit – auch die perinatale – von Zuwanderern auswirken, beschäftigten.
Die Entwicklung des Rauchverhaltens im Kontext der Migration nach Deutschland
Authors: Reiss Katharina , Spallek Jacob , Razum Oliver
Published: June 2015

Das Rauchverhalten zwischen dem jeweiligen Herkunftsland der Zuwanderer und dem Zielland Deutschland unterscheidet sich. Als Resultat des mit der Migration einsetzenden Akkulturationsprozesses findet eine geschlechtsspezifische Anpassung an die Rauchmuster der Männer und Frauen in Deutschland statt. Bei einer Migration von der Türkei nach Deutschland steigt die Rauchprävalenz der zugewanderten Frauen, diejenige der Männer sinkt. Folglich sollten Präventionsprogramme zugewanderten Frauen helfen, in Deutschland nicht mit dem Rauchen zu beginnen und zugewanderte Männer dabei unterstützen, mit dem Rauchen aufzuhören.
Gesundheitsversorgung von Flüchtlingen – zur gesetzlich festgelegten Zweiklassenversorgung
Authors: Lammers Hendrik
Published: June 2015

Das Asylbewerberleistungsgesetz diskriminiert Flüchtlinge in Deutschland in ihrer Gesundheitsversorgung. Dabei werden die Konsequenzen vom Gesetzgeber nicht nur in Kauf genommen, vielmehr sind sie als Instrument der Begrenzung von Zuwanderung zu sehen.
Hindernisse für Teilhabe von benachteiligten Migrantengruppen am Programm ‚Soziale Stadt‘
Authors: Hemetek Ursula
Published: June 2015

Im urbanen Raum manifestiert sich soziale Ungleichheit in der Entstehung sozial benachteiligter Stadtteile, in denen soziale sowie bauliche Missstände kumulieren. Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund bewohnen solche Quartiere in Deutschland überdurchschnittlich häufig. In dem Artikel werden erste Forschungsergebnisse vorgestellt zu der Frage, wie aus der Perspektive von Stakeholdern eine Beteiligung sozial benachteiligter Gruppen von Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund an der Gestaltung ihres Wohnumfeldes gelingen kann.
Gesundheit mit Migranten für Migranten – die MiMi Präventionstechnologie als interkulturelles Health-Literacy-Programm
Authors: Salman Ramazan
Published: June 2015

Migranten haben im Vergleich zur Mehrheitsbevölkerung insgesamt schlechtere Gesundheitschancen. Hierauf wurde mit verschiedensten Programmen und Maßnahmen reagiert. Dabei wurde jedoch die Stärkung der Gesundheitskompetenzen der Migranten selbst vernachlässigt. Das vom Ethno-Medizinischen Zentrum entwickelte MiMi-Programm als effektive Integrationstechnologie befähigt Migranten durch die Vermittlung von Gesundheitswissen dazu, Verantwortung für Ihre Gesundheit zu übernehmen und vorhandene Versorgungsangebote besser für sich zu nutzen.
Migration and occupational health: high work-related burden
Authors: Brzoska Patrick , Razum Oliver
Published: June 2015

Migrants are at a higher risk for occupational accidents, occupational diseases, short-term disability and early retirement than employees of the majority population. This is particularly the case for individuals of Turkish origin. Measures of prevention and health promotion that are sensitive to the needs of migrants need to be implemented in companies and the health care system to improve occupational health and to address consequences resulting from a higher work-related burden in this population group.
Divergierende berufliche Sozialisation von migrierten Ärzten
Authors: Jansen Eva , Schnepf Tabea , Hänel Patricia
Published: June 2015

Die Zahl der migrierten Ärzte in Deutschland nimmt zu. Bei ihrer Integration in lokale Behandlungsteams können Probleme auf medizinischer und kommunikativer Ebene auftreten. Dieser Beitrag zeigt, dass Konflikte zwischen migrierten Ärzten und dem Ärzte- und Pflegeteam über Aufgaben, Zuständigkeiten und Verantwortlichkeiten der einzelnen Gesundheitsberufe häufig als Mangel an Kompetenzen der migrierten Ärzte interpretiert und nicht auf die divergierende berufliche Sozialisation zurückgeführt werden.
The machinability of Al/B4C composites produced by hot pressing based on reinforcing the element ratio
Authors: Ekici Ergün , Gülesin Mahmut
Published: June 2015

In this study, the effects of the particle reinforcement ratio on cutting forces and surface roughness were investigated when milling particle-reinforced metal matrix composite (MMCp) produced by hot pressing with different cutting tools. Alumix 123 alloy as the matrix material and B4C particles with an average size of 27 μm and 5%, 10% and 15% ratio as reinforcing elements were used for the manufacture of composite materials. The experiments were carried out in dry cutting conditions with four different cutting speeds, constant feed rate and depth of cut. Changes depending on the increased reinforcement ratio in cutting forces and surface roughness values were investigated; the effects of 10% B4C reinforced composite on tool wear were also examined. It was observed that cutting forces increased with the increase in cutting speed and particle ratio with carbide cutting tools, and it was seen that the cutting forces on the cutting tools decreased when cutting speed decreased and the cutting forces increased as the reinforcement ratios increased. In addition, with increasing the cutting speed, the surface roughness of the machined surfaces of composite samples increased with the carbide tools, while the cubic boron nitride (CBN) tools have the opposite effect. While it was seen that flank and crater wear occurred on the cemented carbide cutting tools, abrasive, adhesive and other wear mechanism tools in addition to the main wear mechanism, no remarkable flank and crater wear occurred on CBN cutting tools.
“Capitalism a nuh wi fren.” Global Justice and Capitalism inLife and DebtandCronicamente Inviável
Authors: Bender Stephanie
Published: June 2015

Colonial structures, such as the triangular trade between Britain, West Africa, and the Caribbean, have served as a breeding ground for the development of global capitalism and its beneficiaries, who continue their political domination via economic institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. Even without the colonial structures to support it, capitalism as an economic practice and ideology also fails on a functional, ethical, and moral level to foster justice and enhance the common good, as capitalism critic Christian Felber points out. Stephanie Black’s documentaryLife and Debt(2001) and Sergio Bianchi’s feature filmCronicamente Inviável(2000) likewise discuss capitalism’s inability to connect with concepts of justice, as their examples of Jamaica and Brazil, two post-colonial countries that share historical and social similarities despite their different positions in the current global economy, show. While Jamaica inLife and Debtserves as a case study of enforced economic and political dependence through the IMF by means of an extension of colonial hierarchies,Cronicamente Inviávellooks at the ideological side of capitalism embedded in the microcosm of Brazilian society.
Selling Poverty: Junot Díaz’s and Edwidge Danticat’s Assessments of Picturesque Stereotypes of Poverty in the Caribbean
Authors: Zipp Georg
Published: June 2015

Taking the topos of the Caribbean as paradise as point of departure, this article analyses how Edwidge Danticat’sClaire of the Sea Lightand Junot Díaz’sThe Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Waore-write the stereotype of the paradisiacal and picturesque islands. This entails that literary texts and novels, as a form of armchair tourism, potentially offer a form of engagement with poverty in which the voyeuristic gaze can be deflected. Complex literary texts can be a ‘safer’ form of exploring, vicariously experiencing, and thinking about poverty.
Iteration, Innovation und Dekorum in Opferlisten des Alten Reichs
Authors: Morales Antonio J.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate early contexts for the rites conforming the offering Pyramid Texts of the Fifth and Sixth Dynasties. Although the original form of the recitations in the mortuary cult was oral, a process of entextualization came to fix these recitations in writing, first as aide-mémoire for ritualists and then as ‘actualisations monumentales’ for the deceased. A comprehensive analysis of the process of formation of the offering list from the Second Dynasty to the reign of Unas reveals a cogent association of the involved priestly services and items with the offering rites in the Pyramid Texts. In fact, it is suggested that the canonization of the offering list by the mid-late Fourth Dynasty resulted from an attempt to standardize the structure of offering services in Giza and Saqqara that later extended to the royal mortuary corpus.
Circadian Activators Are Expressed Days before They Initiate Clock Function in Late Pacemaker Neurons fromDrosophila
Authors: Liu Tianxin , Mahesh Guruswamy , Houl Jerry H. , Hardin Paul E.
Published: June 2015

Circadian pacemaker neurons in theDrosophilabrain control daily rhythms in locomotor activity. These pacemaker neurons can be subdivided into early or late groups depending on whether rhythms inperiod(per) andtimeless(tim) expression are initiated at the first instar (L1) larval stage or during metamorphosis, respectively. Because CLOCK-CYCLE (CLK-CYC) heterodimers initiate circadian oscillator function by activatingperandtimtranscription, aClk-GFP transgene was used to mark when late pacemaker neurons begin to develop. We were surprised to see that CLK-GFP was already expressed in four of five clusters of late pacemaker neurons during the third instar (L3) larval stage. CLK-GFP is only detected in postmitotic neurons from L3 larvae, suggesting that these four late pacemaker neuron clusters are formed before the L3 larval stage. A GFP-cyctransgene was used to show that CYC, like CLK, is also expressed exclusively in pacemaker neurons from L3 larval brains, demonstrating that CLK-CYC is not sufficient to activateperandtimin late pacemaker neurons at the L3 larval stage. These results suggest that most late pacemaker neurons develop days before novel factors activate circadian oscillator function during metamorphosis.
The Chromatin Remodeling Protein Bptf Promotes Posterior Neuroectodermal Fate by Enhancing Smad2-Activatedwnt8aExpression
Authors: Ma Yuanqing , Liu Xiuli , Liu Zhaoting , Wei Shi , Shang Hanqiao , Xue Yu , Cao Yu , Meng Anming , Wang Qiang
Published: June 2015

During vertebrate embryogenesis, the neuroectoderm is induced from dorsal ectoderm and then partitioned into anterior and posterior neuroectodermal domains by posteriorizing signals, such as Wnt and fibroblast growth factor. However, little is known about epigenetic regulation of posteriorizing gene expression. Here, we report a requirement of the chromatin remodeling protein Bptf for neuroectodermal posteriorization in zebrafish embryos. Knockdown ofbptfleads to an expansion of the anterior neuroectoderm at the expense of the posterior ectoderm. Bptf functionally and physically interacts with p-Smad2, which is activated by non-Nodal TGF-β signaling, to promote the expression ofwnt8a, a critical gene for neural posteriorization. Bptf and Smad2 directly bind to and activate thewnt8apromoter through recruiting NURF remodeling complex. Whenbptffunction or TGF-β signal transduction is inhibited, the nucleosome density on thewnt8apromoter is increased. We propose that Bptf and TGF-β/Smad2 mediate nucleosome remodeling to regulatewnt8aexpression and hence neural posteriorization.
Coupled Changes in Brain White Matter Microstructure and Fluid Intelligence in Later Life
Authors: Ritchie Stuart J. , Bastin Mark E. , Tucker-Drob Elliot M. , Maniega Susana Muñoz , Engelhardt Laura E. , Cox Simon R. , Royle Natalie A. , Gow Alan J. , Corley Janie , Pattie Alison , Taylor Adele M. , Valdés Hernández Maria del C. , Starr John M , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Deary Ian J.
Published: June 2015

Understanding aging-related cognitive decline is of growing importance in aging societies, but relatively little is known about its neural substrates. Measures of white matter microstructure are known to correlate cross-sectionally with cognitive ability measures, but only a few small studies have tested for longitudinal relations among these variables. We tested whether there were coupled changes in brain white matter microstructure indexed by fractional anisotropy (FA) and three broad cognitive domains (fluid intelligence, processing speed, and memory) in a large cohort of human participants with longitudinal diffusion tensor MRI and detailed cognitive data taken at ages 73 years (n= 731) and 76 years (n= 488). Longitudinal changes in white matter microstructure were coupled with changes in fluid intelligence, but not with processing speed or memory. Individuals with higher baseline white matter FA showed less subsequent decline in processing speed. Our results provide evidence for a longitudinal link between changes in white matter microstructure and aging-related cognitive decline during the eighth decade of life. They are consistent with theoretical perspectives positing that a corticocortical “disconnection” partly explains cognitive aging.
Functional Upregulation of α4* Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in VTA GABAergic Neurons Increases Sensitivity to Nicotine Reward
Authors: Ngolab Jennifer , Liu Liwang , Zhao-Shea Rubing , Gao Guangping , Gardner Paul D. , Tapper Andrew R.
Published: June 2015

Chronic nicotine exposure increases sensitivity to nicotine reward during a withdrawal period, which may facilitate relapse in abstinent smokers, yet the molecular neuroadaptation(s) that contribute to this phenomenon are unknown. Interestingly, chronic nicotine use induces functional upregulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the mesocorticolimbic reward pathway potentially linking upregulation to increased drug sensitivity. In the ventral tegmental area (VTA), functional upregulation of nAChRs containing the α4 subunit (α4* nAChRs) is restricted to GABAergic neurons. To test the hypothesis that increased functional expression of α4* nAChRs in these neurons modulates nicotine reward behaviors, we engineered a Cre recombinase-dependent gene expression system to selectively express α4 nAChR subunits harboring a “gain-of-function” mutation [a leucine mutated to a serine residue at the 9′ position (Leu9′Ser)] in VTA GABAergic neurons of adult mice. In mice expressing Leu9′Ser α4 nAChR subunits in VTA GABAergic neurons (Gad2VTA:Leu9′Ser mice), subreward threshold doses of nicotine were sufficient to selectively activate VTA GABAergic neurons and elicit acute hypolocomotion, with subsequent nicotine exposures eliciting tolerance to this effect, compared to control animals. In the conditioned place preference procedure, nicotine was sufficient to condition a significant place preference in Gad2VTA:Leu9′Ser mice at low nicotine doses that failed to condition control animals. Together, these data indicate that functional upregulation of α4* nAChRs in VTA GABAergic neurons confers increased sensitivity to nicotine reward and points to nAChR subtypes specifically expressed in GABAergic VTA neurons as molecular targets for smoking cessation therapeutics.
Esthetic plastic surgery: Experiencies concerning corporal (re) constructions and implications for nursing
Authors: Voese Carla Fernanda , Kleinpaul William Vinicius , Petry Analidia Rodolpho
Published: June 2015

Objective: to identify reasons which lead healthy subjects to search, for the first time, surgical methods for corporalmodifications. Methods: it is a descriptive, exploratory and qualitative study. Data were collected through semi-structuredinterviews which were recorded. The interviews were made with eight women and resulted into four analytic categories.Results: the reasons which took healthy subjects to face surgical risks are regarding the improvement of the satisfactionwith their own corporal image aiming at reaching a higher social insertion. It was observed that dissatisfaction concerningphysical appearance was generated by inherited characteristics or by marks left after pregnancy. Financial cost, fear andfamily support, can make the decision to undergo the surgery difficult. Conclusion: the plastic surgery can promote theregain of self-esteem in the subject who makes the surgery.
Notification of brain death in the hospital
Authors: Souza Bruna Soares de Jesus , Lira Gerlene Grudka , Mola Rachel
Published: June 2015

Objective: to identifying brain death in the hospital. Methods: it is a cross sectional and quantitative study which analyzedsecondary data extracted from the notified brain death registers and from the medical records of the eligible patients. Thedata were processed and analyzed through descriptive statistics and comparisons. Results: of the 64 cases of notifications,the male gender predominated (67.2%) within the age range from 40 to 59 years (64.1%). There was a greater proportion(71.8%) of causes of death related to Hemorrhagic Cerebral Vascular Accident and Traumatic Brain Injury caused bymotorcycle accident, showing statistically significant difference (p<0.05) regarding the gender, age and location. Conclusion:the Hemorrhagic Cerebral Vascular Accident was the most prevalent cause of notification of brain death and the IntensiveTherapy Unit was the most notified venue.
Suicide in historic cities of a Brazilian state
Authors: Simões Beatriz Faria , Cantão Luiza , Botti Nadja Cristiane Lappann
Published: June 2015

Objective: to analyze the suicide rate in historical regions of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Methods: epidemiological studyconducted in five historical regions of a Brazilian state. The data used were extracted from the Information Department ofthe National Health System. Results: the Historical Regions of Demonstrations and Wealth presented higher suicide rateswhen compared to the state’s rate. In 11 of the 15 years analyzed, the Region of Wealth had rates higher than that of MinasGerais. Regarding age group, average levels of suicide were found in the age group 20-59 years in 14 years studied. Wealso identified higher suicide rates among men in the Historical Regions. The most used methods in the Historical Regionswere hanging, strangulation and suffocation. Conclusion: the distribution of suicide cases has enabled to understand theepidemiological characteristics of suicide in the Historical Regions of Minas Gerais during the period analyzed.
Communication of the cancer diagnosis to an elderly patient
Authors: Jonas Lucélia Terra , Silva Natália Michelato , Paula Julliana Maria de , Marques Sueli , Kusumota Luciana
Published: June 2015

Objective: to collect evidence on matters which involve cancer diagnosis disclosure to an elderly patient. Methods: integrativerevision made in five important data bases in the area of health with seven selected articles. Results: it was noticeable thatthere are conflicts between family members and health professionals concerning cancer diagnosis disclosure to an elderlypatient and that the preferences of those people on the disclosure of the diagnosis are similar to other patients. Conclusion:Health professionals, especially the nurses, need training in order to have a secure and clarifying communication, matchingthe information to the specific needs of each patient, considering their reality and type of confrontation..
The effects of insulin and liraglutide on osteoprotegerin and vascular calcification in vitro and in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Davenport Colin , Mahmood Wan A , Forde Hannah , Ashley David T , Agha Amar , McDermott John , Sreenan Seamus , Thompson Christopher J , McGrath Frank , McAdam Brendan , Cummins Philip M , Smith Diarmuid
Published: June 2015

Objective

Vascular calcification (VC) is inhibited by the glycoprotein osteoprotegerin (OPG). It is unclear whether treatments for type 2 diabetes are capable of promoting or inhibiting VC. The present study examined the effects of insulin and liraglutide on i) the production of OPG and ii) the emergence of VC, bothin vitroin human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) andin vivoin type 2 diabetes.

Design/methods

HASMCs were exposed to insulin glargine or liraglutide, after which OPG production, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and levels ofRunx2,ALPand bone sialoprotein (BSP) mRNA were measured. A prospective, nonrandomised human subject study was also conducted, in which OPG levels and coronary artery calcification (CAC) were measured in a type 2 diabetes population before and 16 months after the commencement of either insulin or liraglutide treatment and in a control group that took oral hypoglycemics only.

Results

Exposure to insulin glargine, but not liraglutide, was associated with significantly decreased OPG production (11 913±1409 pg/104cells vs 282±13 pg/104cells, control vs 10 nmol/l insulin,P<0.0001), increasedALPactivity (0.82±0.06 IU/104cells vs 2.40±0.16 IU/104cells, control vs 10 nmol/l insulin,P<0.0001) and increased osteogenic gene expression by HASMCs. In the clinical study (n=101), insulin treatment was associated with a significant reduction in OPG levels and, despite not achieving full statistical significance, a trend towards increased CAC in patients.

Conclusion

Exogenous insulin down-regulated OPGin vitroandin vivoand promoted VCin vitro. Although neither insulin nor liraglutide significantly affected CAC in the present pilot study, these data support the establishment of randomised trials to investigate medications and VC in diabetes.
Autotaxin is an inflammatory mediator and therapeutic target in thyroid cancer
Authors: Benesch Matthew G K , Ko Yi M , Tang Xiaoyun , Dewald Jay , Lopez-Campistrous Ana , Zhao Yuan Y , Lai Raymond , Curtis Jonathan M , Brindley David N , McMullen Todd P W
Published: June 2015

Autotaxin is a secreted enzyme that converts extracellular lysophosphatidylcholine to lysophosphatidate (LPA). In cancers, LPA increases tumour growth, metastasis and chemoresistance by activating six G-protein coupled receptors. We examined >200 human thyroid biopsies. Autotaxin expression in metastatic deposits and primary carcinomas was four- to tenfold higher than in benign neoplasms or normal thyroid tissue. Autotaxin immunohistochemical staining was also increased in benign neoplasms with leukocytic infiltrations. Malignant tumours were distinguished from benign tumours by high tumour autotaxin, LPA levels and inflammatory mediators including IL1β, IL6, IL8, GMCSF, TNFα, CCL2, CXCL10 and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-AA. We determined the mechanistic explanation for these results and revealed a vicious regulatory cycle in which LPA increased the secretion of 16 inflammatory modulators in papillary thyroid cancer cultures. Conversely, treating cancer cells with ten inflammatory cytokines and chemokines or PDGF-AA and PDGF-BB increased autotaxin secretion. We confirmed that this autotaxin/inflammatory cycle occurs in two SCID mouse models of papillary thyroid cancer by blocking LPA signalling using the autotaxin inhibitor ONO-8430506. This decreased the levels of 16 inflammatory mediators in the tumours and was accompanied by a 50–60% decrease in tumour volume. This resulted from a decreased mitotic index for the cancer cells and decreased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and angiogenesis in the tumours. Our results demonstrate that the autotaxin/inflammatory cycle is a focal point for driving malignant thyroid tumour progression and possibly treatment resistance. Inhibiting autotaxin activity provides an effective and novel strategy for decreasing the inflammatory phenotype in thyroid carcinomas, which should complement other treatment modalities.
Blood and tissue neuroendocrine tumor gene cluster analysis correlate, define hallmarks and predict disease status
Authors: Kidd Mark , Drozdov Ignat , Modlin Irvin
Published: June 2015

A multianalyte algorithmic assay (MAAA) identifies circulating neuroendocrine tumor (NET) transcripts (n=51) with a sensitivity/specificity of 98%/97%. We evaluated whether blood measurements correlated with tumor tissue transcript analysis. The latter were segregated into gene clusters (GC) that defined clinical ‘hallmarks’ of neoplasia. A MAAA/cluster integrated algorithm (CIA) was developed as a predictive activity index to define tumor behavior and outcome. We evaluated three groups. Group 1: publically available NET transcriptome databases (n=15; GeneProfiler). Group 2: prospectively collected tumors and matched blood samples (n=22; qRT-PCR). Group 3: prospective clinical blood samples,n=159: stable disease (SD):n=111 and progressive disease (PD):n=48. Regulatory network analysis, linear modeling, principal component analysis (PCA), and receiver operating characteristic analyses were used to delineate neoplasia ‘hallmarks’ and assess GC predictive utility. Our results demonstrated: group 1: NET transcriptomes identified (92%) genes elevated. Group 2: 98% genes elevated by qPCR (fold change >2,P<0.05). Correlation analysis of matched blood/tumor was highly significant (R2=0.7,P<0.0001), and 58% of genes defined nine omic clusters (SSTRome, proliferome, signalome, metabolome, secretome, epigenome, plurome, and apoptome). Group 3: six clusters (SSTRome, proliferome, metabolome, secretome, epigenome, and plurome) differentiated SD from PD (area under the curve (AUC)=0.81). Integration with blood-algorithm amplified the AUC to 0.92±0.02 for differentiating PD and SD. The CIA defined a significantly lower SD score (34.1±2.6%) than in PD (84±2.8%,P<0.0001). In conclusion, circulating transcripts measurements reflect NET tissue values. Integration of biologically relevant GC differentiate SD from PD. Combination of GC data with the blood-algorithm predicted disease status in >92%. Blood transcript measurement predicts NET activity.
Overview of Biological Therapy in Ulcerative Colitis: Current and Future Directions
Authors: Furfaro Federica , Bezzio Cristina , Ardizzone Sandro , Massari Alessandro , De Franchis Roberto , Maconi Giovanni
Published: June 2015

The treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC) has changed over the last decade. It is extremely important to optimize the therapies which are available nowadays and commonly used in daily clinical practice, as well as to stimulate the search for more powerful drugs for the induction and maintenance of sustained and durable remission, thus preventing further complications. Therefore, it is mandatory to identify the patients' prognostic variables associated with an aggressive clinical course and to test the most potent therapies accordingly.To date, the conventional therapeutic approach based on corticosteroids, salicylates (sulfasalazine, 5-aminosalicylic acid) or immunosuppressive agents is commonly used as a first step to induce and to maintain remission. However, in recent years, knowledge of new pathogenetic mechanisms of ulcerative colitis have allowed us to find new therapeutic targets leading to the development of new treatments that directly target proinflammatory mediators, such as TNF-alpha, cytokines, membrane migration agents, cellular therapies.The aim of this review is to provide the most significant data regarding the therapeutic role of drugs in UC and to give an overview of biological and experimental drugs that will become available in the near future. In particular, we will analyse the role of these drugs in the treatment of acute flare and maintenance of UC, as well as its importance in mucosal healing and in treating patients at a high risk of relapse.
Review of Computed Tomographic Colonography from a Surgeon’s Perspective
Authors: Bellows Charles , Gagliardi Giuseppe , Bacigalupo Lorenzo
Published: June 2015

Abstract

New research has addressed many of the early concerns of Computed Tomographic colonography (CTC) and these studies are now beginning to shape clinical practices. A review of the literature demonstrates that the sensitivity of CTC in screening for large polyps (≥ 1cm) or cancers in the large intestine is as high as that of conventional optical colonoscopy, however, the sensitivity decreases with the diameter of the polyp. Despite this, CTC is well tolerated, more acceptable to patients than optical colonoscopy and therefore may improve colorectal cancer screening compliance. This review not only describes the diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity of CTC, and the evolving role of CTC as a primary colon cancer screening option, but also the recent studies that have demonstrated the additional value of CTC utilization for practicing clinicians.
A Single Biopsy is Valid for Genetic Diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis Regardless of Tissue Preservation or Location in the Esophagus
Authors: Dellon Evan S. , Yellore Vivek , Andreatta Matthew , Stover James
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims: A new gene expression profile test may distinguish eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but the optimal tissue preparation and biopsy location are unknown. We aimed to determine if formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and RNA-later (RNAL) preserved specimens from newly diagnosed EoE patients have equivalent gene expression scores and whether scores vary by esophageal biopsy location.Methods: We analyzed prospectively collected and banked esophageal biopsies from EoE patients and GERD controls. Paired FFPE and RNAL samples from the distal, mid, and proximal esophagus were used. RNA was extracted, and gene expression for a previously constructed 96 gene panel was quantified with a summary expression score. Scores were compared between EoE and GERD patients, between FFPE and RNAL samples, and between the different esophageal locations.Results: A total of 72 samples, representing paired FFPE and RNAL specimens from 9 EoE cases and 3 GERD controls, were analyzed. Overall median gene expression scores were similar between FFPE and RNAL (238 vs 227; p=0.64), correlation was excellent between FFPE and RNAL (Spearman's rho=0.90; p<0.001), and there were no differences by biopsy level. Median gene scores distinguished EoE from controls (134 vs 402; p=0.02), and overall agreement between preservation methods and EoE case status was perfect (kappa=1.0; p<0.001).Conclusions: Gene expression scores were equivalent in FFPE and RNAL, and were also similar across three esophageal locations. This implies that a single biopsy in either FFPE or RNAL from anywhere in the esophagus may have the potential for genetic diagnosis of EoE.
Opportunistic Colorectal Cancer Screening using Colonoscopy. Comparative Results between two Historical Cohorts in Bucharest, Romania
Authors: Ionescu Elena Mirela , Nicolaie Tudor , Gologan Serban Ion , Mocanu Ana , Ditescu Cristina , Arbanas Tudor , Stoicescu Adriana , Teiusanu Adriana , Andrei Mihai , Diculescu Mircea , Ciocîrlan Mihai
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims: Even though Romania has one of the highest incidence and mortality in colorectal cancer (CRC) in Europe, there is currently no organized screening program. We aimed to assess the results of our opportunistic CRC screening using colonoscopy.Methods: A single center retrospective study to include all opportunistic screening colonoscopies performed in two 18 month periods (2007-2008 and 2012-2013) was designed. All asymptomatic individuals without a personal or family history of adenoma or CRC and with complete colonoscopy performed in these two time periods were included.Results: We included 1,807 individuals, 882 in the first period, 925 in the second period. There were 389 individuals aged below 50, 1,351 between 50 and 75 and 67 older than 75 years. There were 956 women (52.9%), with a mean age of 58.5 (median 59, range 23-97). The detection rates were 12.6% for adenomas (6.1% for advanced adenoma) and 3.4% for adenocarcinoma. Adenoma incidence (4.9% in subjects under 50, 14.7% in those aged 50 to 75, and 16.4% in those older than 75, p<0.0001) and size (6.3mm in subjects younger than 50, 9.2mm in those 50 to 75 and 10.8mm in those older than 75, p=0.015) significantly increased with age. Adenoma incidence increased in the second period (14.8% vs. 10.3%, p=0.005), while adenoma size decreased in the second period (8.4mm vs. 10mm, p=0.006). There were no procedure related complications.Conclusions: The neoplasia detection rate was 16% (12.6% adenoma, 3.4% adenocarcinoma). Adenoma incidence and size increased with age in both cohorts. In the second screening period significantly more and smaller adenomas were detected.
The Role of Skp2 and its Substrate CDKN1B (p27) in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Bochis Ovidiu V. , Irimie Alexandru , Pichler Martin , Berindan- Neagoe Ioana
Published: June 2015

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequent cancers worldwide, having the fourth mortality rate among cancers in both sexes. Numerous studies are investigating the signaling pathways and different factors involved in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. It has recently been shown that the S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) overexpression plays an important role in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. We review the role of Skp2 and its ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in colorectal cancer. The F-box protein Skp2, a component of the SCF (Skp1-Cullin 1-F-box) E3 ubiquitin-ligase complex, has been shown to regulate cellular proliferation, cancer progression and metastasis by targeting several cell cycle regulators for ubiquitination and subsequent 26S proteasome degradation. The best known protein substrate of the Skp2 is the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (CDKN1B), also known as p27Kip1. Overexpression of Skp2 and loss of CDKN1B (p27) was strongly associated with aggressive tumor behavior and poor clinical outcome in a variety of cancers, including colorectal cancer. An efficient interaction between Skp2 and CDKN1B (p27) requires the presence of an essential activator of the SCF-Skp2 complex, the cyclin-dependent kinase subunit 1 (Cks1) cofactor. Alterations in the Skp2, Cks1 and CDKN1B (p27) expression have major effects on colorectal carcinogenesis and may serve as an important and independent prognostic marker. Furthermore, we highlight that Skp2 may be a promising therapeutic target for colorectal cancer, and development of Skp2 inhibitors would have a great impact on colorectal cancer therapy.
Does Infliximab Short Infusion have a Beneficial Impact on the Quality of Life in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases? A Single Centre Prospective Evaluation
Authors: Principi Mariabeatrice , Losurdo Giuseppe , La Fortezza Rosa Federica , Lopolito Pasquale , Lovero Rosa , Grillo Simone , Bringiotti Roberto , Ierardi Enzo , Di Leo Alfredo
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims: Infliximab (IFX) is an anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha agent used in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) therapy. Usually, it is administered over a 2-hour intravenous infusion. However, shortening the infusion duration to 1 hour has proved to be feasible and safe. In the present study we evaluated whether shortening the IFX infusion could affect the patients' quality of life (QoL) compared to the standard protocol.Methods: Subjects affected by IBD receiving IFX were prospectively recruited. The main criterion to shorten the infusion was the absence of IFX-related adverse reactions during the previous three 2-h infusions. For each patient, demographic, clinical and anthropometric data were collected. A questionnaire investigating their overall/job/social/sexual QoL was administered. Ordinal regression was performed with odds ratios (OR) for significant independent variables.Results: Eighty-one patients were included (46 with ulcerative colitis - UC, 35 with Crohn's disease - CD). Sixteen received the 2-h infusion due to previous adverse reactions, and the remaining 65 underwent the 1-h schedule. Shortening the infusion to 1 hour determined a better QoL (OR=0.626). However, the QoL was negatively influenced by age (OR=1.023), female sex (OR=2.04) and severe disease activity (OR=7.242). One-hour IFX infusion induced a better outcome on work (OR=0.588) and social (OR=0.643) QoL. Long-standing disease was correlated with a slightly better sexual QoL (OR=0.93). Conversely, older age (OR=1.046), severe clinical score (OR=15.579), use of other immunomodulators (OR=3.693) and perianal CD (OR=3.265) were related to an unsatisfactory sexual life. The total number of infusions (OR=0.891), proctitis (OR=0.062) or pancolitis (OR=0.1) minimized the perception of infusion-related side effects.Conclusion: The 1-h short infusion improves overall, social and job QoL, so that, when indicated, it should be recommended.
Efecto de la carga orgánica de la gallinaza de jaula en el potencial de biometanización
Authors: Marin-Batista José Daniel , Castro Liliana , Escalante Humberto
Published: June 2015

Título en ingles: Effect of chicken manure organic load on biomethane potential.
Título corto: Efecto de la carga orgánica de la gallinaza de jaula

El propósito de este estudio fue evaluar el efecto de la carga orgánica expresada en función de la relación inóculo/sustrato (RIS) sobre el potencial de biometanización de la gallinaza de jaula usando como inóculo lodo estiércol bovino. Se llevaron a cabo ensayos de biodegradación anaerobia a temperatura mesofílica de 39 °C. Para cada una de las cargas orgánicas evaluadas (16.6, 11.0, 8.3, 6.6 y 5.5 g SV/L) se cuantificaron las variables: ácidos grasos volátiles totales, alcalinidad, concentración amonio y volumen acumulado de metano. El mayor potencial de biometanización (0.58 m3 CH4/kg SV) se alcanzó cuando la biodegradación anaerobia se llevó a cabo con una RIS de 1.0. Los resultados obtenidos demuestran que la gallinaza es un sustrato potencial para ser degradado por digestión anaerobia y el rendimiento del proceso es directamente proporcional a la concentración de sustrato. Este estudio también confirma que la RIS permite diluir la concentración de compuestos inhibitorios como el amonio en el caso de la gallinaza de jaula. 

Palabras claves: digestión anaerobia, gallinaza de jaula, relación inóculo/sustrato, amonio.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of inoculum to substrate radio (ISR) on biomethane potential of chicken manure using cattle slurry as inoculum. Biomethane potential assays were carried out at 39 °C mesophilic temperature. Total fatty acids, total alkalinity, ammonium concentration and accumulative methane volume were measured to evaluate organic load ((16.6, 11.0, 8.3, 6.6 y 5.5 g VS/L)   The highest biomethane potential (0.58 m3 CH4/kg SV) was reached when anaerobic biodegradation was carried out to ISR of 1.0. The results demonstrated that chicken manure is a potential substrate to be degraded by anaerobic digestion and process performance is directly proportional to substrate concentration. This study also confirms that ISR allow dilution of inhibitory components as ammonium by the case of chicken manure. 

Keywords: anaerobic digestion, chicken manure, inoculum substrate ratio, ammonia

Recibido: febrero 10 de 2014    Aprobado: abril 9 de 2015
Cultivo de Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) en fotobiorreactor tubular doblemente curvado a condiciones ambientales en el sur del Perú
Authors: Huarachi Olivera Ronald Eleazar , Yapo Pari Ursulo Avelino , Dueñas Gonza Alex Paul , Condori Huamanga Jose , Pacheco Salazar David , Soto Flores Joe
Published: June 2015

Título en ingles: Cultivation of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) in curved doubly tubular photobioreactor to environmental conditions in the South of the Peru

Título corto: Cultivo de Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) en fotobiorreactor

Resumen: El presente trabajo investigó el cultivo de la microalga Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) en valores de productividad cultivado en fotobiorreactor tubular doblemente curvado a condiciones ambientales con el fin de aprovechar la alta radiación solar de la región Arequipa en el sur de Perú (16°24´50´´ LS; 71°32´02´´ LO; 2344 msnm). El fotobiorreactor fue construido con un tubo transparente de policloruro de vinilo  (PVC). La productividad del cultivo fue de 13.9 g/m2 en 14 días ó 1 g/m2/día y una concentración de clorofila - “a” de 0.00785 mg/L con una máxima radiación de 1179 W/m2, y una iluminación de 121500 lux, convirtiendo sus filamentos helicoidales a morfologías anormales, tales como formas irregulares curvas e incluso lineales con fragmentaciones, demostrando que el cultivo se vio afectado por la alta radiación y las variaciones de  temperaturas de Arequipa.

Palabras clave: cultivo, fotobiorreactor, productividad, sur de Perú, Spirulina.

Abstract: The present work investigated the cultivation of microalgae Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) in productivity values cultivated in doubly curved tubular photobioreactor to environmental conditions in order to take advantage of the high solar radiation of the Arequipa region in southern Peru (16°24´50´´ LS; 71°32´02´´LW; 2344 msnm.). The photobioreactor was built with a transparent tube of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The productivity of the crop was 13.9 g/m2 in 14 days or 1 g/m2/day and a concentration of chlorophyll - "a" 0.00785 mg/L with a maximum radiation of 1179 W/m2, and a 121500 lux illumination, making its helical filaments abnormal morphologies, such as curves and linear even irregular shapes with fragmentation, demonstrating that the crop was affected by high radiation and variations in temperatures of Arequipa.

Key words: culture, photobioreactor, productivity, South of Peru, Spirulina.

Recibido: enero 22 de 2015  Aprobado: abril 22 de 2015
La importancia de 1958 en la obra de Rafa Fernández
Authors: Oviedo Salazar Mauricio
Published: June 2015

El ensayo trata la importancia que tuvo 1958 para la producción artística del costarricense Rafa Fernández. En dicho año el artista estudió en Nicaragua, bajo la dirección de Rodrigo Peñalba, en la Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes de Managua. Este fue un periodo determinante en su carrera, ya que consigue herramientas pictóricas que serán empleadas en sus pinturas procedentes de la década de los sesenta, por ejemplo, el uso de disímiles texturas y el manejo de colores oscuros que le proporcionaban a sus cuadros una estética grotesca y violenta.
De Colón al globalismo: La construcción de la hegemonía Occidental
Authors: Madrigal Muñoz Eduardo
Published: June 2015

El proceso de Globalización que vivimos hoy en día nos ha puesto frente a la Resumen necesidad de estudiar la historia en términos de procesos globales –vale decir, aquellos que se verifican en el nivel de lo global-, no solamente como una descripción de acontecimientos, sino desde un enfoque científico y analítico. Este proceso –hasta ahora único en la historia humana- ha estado caracterizado por una integración de mercados internacionales, un desarrollo sin precedentes de la tecnología –particularmente de la informática-, una geopolítica gobernada por la interacción de bloques económicos, y por la emergencia de una cultura global. No encontramos hasta 1492 la existencia de un mercado mundial que verdaderamente integre a todos los continentes del planeta por primera vez en la historia bajo un estilo de civilización llamado la modernidad. Este nuevo estilo de civilización estará caracterizado por un modelo racional de pensamiento y una forma racionalizada de dirigir la economía y la política, que luego sería conocido como el Estado Moderno, quién generará una reorganización de la estructura de los intercambios globales a favor de Europa como centro rector del mundo. La modernidad se convierte en el máximo modelo de evolución, desarrollo y progreso mundial que se impone todas las otras culturas del planeta.
Microrrelatos
Authors: Hernández Campos Ronald Gerardo
Published: June 2015

Se presentan, en tres microrrelatos, relaciones mediadas por la cosificación de la programación de las convenciones, en la que los sentimientos -en particular el amor- resultan cuestionables en su autenticidad.
Tall Morningglory (Ipomoea purpurea) Seedbank Density Effects on Pendimethalin Control Outcomes
Authors: Schutte Brian J. , Cunningham Ashley
Published: June 2015

Pendimethalin control failures on tall morningglory are critical shortcomings in weed-control programs for chile pepper in New Mexico. Using weed seedbank augmentation, we conducted a field study to (1) determine if pendimethalin control of tall morningglory is affected by tall morningglory seedbank density, and (2) identify weed community factors that influence labor for removing the tall morningglory plants that escape pendimethalin. The field study was complemented with a growth chamber study conducted to clarify the effects of pendimethalin rate on the putative association between tall morningglory seedbank density and pendimethalin control outcomes. Under field conditions and after square-root transformation of the dependent variable, the effects of seedbank density on seedling escape density were described with natural logarithmic functions. Although pendimethalin control of tall morningglory decreased with increasing seedbank density, seedbank additions increased labor requirements for removing tall morningglory at only a site-year characterized by low population densities in the indigenous weed community. In growth chambers, increasing pendimethalin rate negatively influenced the effects of increasing seedbank density on pendimethalin control failures. This study shows that pendimethalin control of tall morningglory is reduced when seedbank densities of this species are high. Knowledge of seedbank density effects on specific control outcomes may influence grower attitudes on management strategies that target weed seedbanks.