bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Dose Pharmacokinetics of the Renin Inhibitor ACT-077825 in Elderly and Young Subjects of Both Sexes
Authors: Dingemanse Jasper , Cavallaro Marzia , Eydeler Urte
Published: September 2014

Background/Aims: The study objective was to investigate and compare the pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of ACT-077825, a novel direct renin inhibitor, in young and elderly, male and female healthy subjects and to evaluate the safety and tolerability of ACT-077825 in these population groups. Methods: A total of 32 healthy subjects were included in this single-center, open-label study. The subjects were divided into 4 groups, including 8 young male, 8 young female, 8 elderly male and 8 elderly female subjects. Each participant received a single 200-mg dose of ACT-077825. Blood samples were taken over 5 days (120 h) to determine the plasma levels of ACT-077825. Safety and tolerability were monitored using standard assessments before drug administration, on the administration day and at the end of the blood sampling period. Results: Upon pooling male and female subjects, exposure was higher in elderly compared to young subjects, showing an increase of 65% for AUC0-∞, 40% for Cmax and 38% for t1/2. While young male and female subjects showed similar plasma profiles and exposure, a significant increase in exposure occurred with age in both sexes compared to younger subjects. The difference was largest between young and elderly females. Furthermore, the exposure to ACT-077825 was around 30% higher in elderly female compared to elderly male subjects. ACT-077825 was well tolerated by all groups, including the elderly females who showed the highest exposure. Conclusions: ACT-077825 exposure is moderately increased in elderly subjects. The clinical relevance of this observation should be explored in the context of further studies.
Genetic and Structural Analysis of Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Large T Antigen from Diverse Biological Samples
Authors: Freze Baez Camila , Cirauqui Diaz Nuria , Baeta Cavalcanti Silvia Maria , Brandão Varella Rafael
Published: September 2014

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) large T antigen (LT-ag) is frequently found truncated in Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC) and it is considered a major tumor-specific signature. Nonetheless, the biological role of LT-ag nontruncated mutations is largely unknown. In this study, MCPyV LT-ag second exon from 11 non-MCC oral samples and NCBI sequences derived from different anatomical sites were studied from the genetic and structural standpoint. As expected, the LT-ag mutation profile was influenced by the geographical origin of the sample, although nonsynonymous mutations were more frequent in lesional tissues. Our in silico study suggests that the mutations found would not significantly affect protein functions, regardless of sample category. This work presents a thorough investigation of the structural and functional properties of LT-ag nontruncated mutations in MCPyV. Our results sustain the geographical influence of the MCPyV genetic profile, but do not discard genetic tissue specificities. Further investigation involving other genetic segments in healthy and lesional tissues are necessary to improve our knowledge on MCPyV pathogenesis.
The Effect of IGF2BP2 Gene Polymorphisms on Pioglitazone Response in Chinese Type 2 Diabetes Patients
Authors: Zhang Liu-Fu , Pei Qi , Yang Guo-Ping , Zhao Ying-Chun , Mu Yan-Fang , Huang Qiong , Zhu You-Ling
Published: September 2014

Background: Genome-wide association studies identified that insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) genetic polymorphisms are related to type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in several populations. This study aimed to investigate whether the IGF2BP2 gene rs1470579 and rs4402960 polymorphisms were associated with T2DM and pioglitazone efficacy in Chinese T2DM patients. Methods: A total of 281 T2DM patients and 111 healthy volunteers were enrolled to identify the IGF2BP2 gene rs1470579 and rs4402960 polymorphisms; 86 patients were randomly selected and given a 12-week pioglitazone treatment (30 mg/day). Fasting plasma glucose, postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), glycated hemoglobin, serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were determined before and after pioglitazone treatment. Results: The results showed that the IGF2BP2 gene rs1470579 and rs4402960 polymorphisms were associated with T2DM in a Chinese population (OR = 2.002, 95% CI 1.170-3.426, p < 0.05; OR = 1.879, 95% CI 1.110-3.182, p < 0.05). The effect of pioglitazone on PPG (p < 0.05), TG (p < 0.01) and HDL-C (p < 0.05) was lower in patients with the rs1470579 AC+CC genotypes than in AA genotype carriers. Its effect on PPG level was also lower in patients with the GT+TT genotypes of rs4402960 than in patients with the GG genotype (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The IGF2BP2 gene rs1470579 and rs4402960 polymorphisms were associated with T2DM and therapeutic efficacy of pioglitazone in this Chinese population. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
The Nucleus Accumbens beyond the Anterior Commissure: Implications for Psychosurgery
Authors: Lucas-Neto Lia , Mourato Beatriz , Neto Daniel , Oliveira Edson , Martins Hugo , Correia Francisco , Gonçalves-Ferreira António
Published: September 2014

Introduction: The nucleus accumbens (Acc) is a basal forebrain structure integrated in the dopaminergic cerebral rewarding circuits and implicated in some neuropsychiatric disorders. It has become a target for deep brain stimulation for some of these disorders when refractory to medical treatment. However, it is controversial as to which target is the best and similar results have been achieved with the stimulation of neighboring structures such as the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST). Previous studies have established the stereotactic anatomy of the human Acc, but some difficulties remain concerning its precise posterior limit, which is assumed to be at the level of the anterior commissure (AC). It is our purpose to clarify the anatomy of this zone, given the importance of its exact identification in psychosurgery. Methods: A total of 16 Acc were collected by autopsy, fixed, dissected, embedded and cut in coronal 5-µm slices. The slices were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, marked with anti-D1 and anti-D2 antibodies and analyzed under a microscope. Results: The human Acc has the same cellular structure as the dorsal striatum, except in its posterior subcommissural part where voluminous neurons prevail, similar to and contiguous with the BNST. Conclusions: The Acc is longer than previously described, with a sub- and postcommissural extension behind the AC, continuous with the BNST.
A Novel Wheat-Dasypyrum breviaristatum Substitution Line with Stripe Rust Resistance
Authors: Li Guang-Rong , Zhao Jin-Mei , Li Dong-Hai , Yang En-Nian , Huang Yu-Feng , Liu Cheng , Yang Zu-Jun
Published: September 2014

The introduction of genetic variation from wild and cultivated Triticeae species has been a long-standing approach for wheat improvement. Dasypyrumbreviaristatum species harbor novel and agronomically important genes for resistance against multi-fungal diseases. The development of new wheat-D. breviaristatum introgression lines offers chances for the identification of stripe rust resistance gene(s). A wheat line, D11-5, was selected from a cross between wheat line MY11 and wheat-D. breviaristatum partial amphiploid TDH-2. It was characterized by FISH and PCR-based molecular markers. Chromosome counting revealed that the D11-5 line shows a hexaploid set of 2n = 6x = 42 chromosomes. FISH analysis using the Dasypyrum repetitive sequence pDb12H as a probe demonstrated that D11-5 contained a pair of D. breviaristatum chromosomes, while FISH with wheat D-genomic repetitive sequences revealed that the chromosome 2D was absent in D11-5. The functional molecular markers confirmed that the introduced D. breviaristatum chromosomes belong to the homoeologous group 2, indicating that D11-5 was a 2Vb (2D) disomic substitution line. Field resistance showed that the introduced D. breviaristatum chromosomes 2Vb were responsible for the stripe rust resistance at the adult plant stage. FISH, C-banding, and PCR-based molecular marker analysis indicated that the chromosome 2Vb of D. breviaristatum was completely different from the chromosome 2V of D. villosum. The identified wheat-D. breviaristatum chromosome substitution line D11-5 may be applied to produce agronomically desirable stripe rust resistance germplasm.
Nascent ZW Sex Chromosomes in Thecadactylus rapicauda (Reptilia, Squamata, Phyllodactylidae)
Authors: Schmid Michael , Steinlein Claus , Haaf Thomas , Mijares-Urrutia Abraham
Published: September 2014

The chromosomes of the turnip-tailed gecko Thecadactylus rapicauda from the Falcón State in northern Venezuela were examined by means of conventional staining, a variety of banding techniques and in situ hybridization with an 18S + 28S rDNA probe. In female specimens, C-banding analyses detected a cryptic W sex chromosome-associated interstitial heterochromatic segment which is absent in the Z sex chromosome. These ZW sex chromosomes are considered to be in a nascent stage of morphological differentiation and are absent in T. rapicauda collected in Guatemala. The amount, location and fluorochrome affinities of constitutive heterochromatin, the position of the nucleolus organizer region, and the genome sizes of female and male individuals were determined. The previously published cytogenetic data on T. rapicauda are discussed.
Influence of dabigatran and rivaroxaban on routine coagulation assays
Authors: Bailleul Els , Chatelain Bernard , Demulder Anne , Devreese Katrien , Douxfils Jonathan , Jochmans Kristin , Mullier François , Wijns Walter , Soumali Mohamed Rida , Coucke Wim , Vernelen Kris , Walle Philippe Van de , Blerk Marjan Van
Published: September 2014

The Belgian national External Quality Assessment Scheme performed a nationwide survey using lyophilised plasma samples spiked with dabigatran or rivaroxaban to demonstrate to the Belgian clinical laboratories how these drugs affect their routine coagulation assays prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen and antithrombin. Virtually all Belgian laboratories performing routine coagulation testing (189/192) participated in the survey. Both, dabigatran and rivaroxaban significantly prolonged the PT and aPTT in a concentration- and reagent-dependent manner. PT reagents were more influenced by rivaroxaban than by dabigatran and aPTT reagents more influenced by dabigatran than by rivaroxaban. Among PT reagents, Neoplastin R® was the most sensitive to rivaroxaban and Innovin ® and Thromborel S® the least sensitive. Converting PT results to INR only increased the variability between reagents. Among aPTT reagents, Actin FSL® was the least sensitive to dabigatran while the other aPTT reagents showed slightly higher sensitivities. The presence of dabigatran led to falsely reduced fibrinogen concentrations when measured with a low thrombin concentration reagent. The presence of dabigatran caused an overestimation of the antithrombin level when measured with a thrombin-based activity assay and the presence of rivaroxaban an overestimation of the antithrombin level when measured with a FXa-based assay. Instrument-related differences were found for all tested parameters. In conclusion, this paper provides detailed information on the effect of dabigatran and rivaroxaban on routine coagulation assays as performed with a large number of reagent/instrument combinations.
Glycoprotein Ibα clustering induces macrophage-mediated platelet clearance in the liver
Authors: Ma Na , Zhao Lili , Lijuan Cao , Zhang Yiwen , Zhang Jie , Yu Ziqiang , Wang Zhaoyue , Xia Lijun , Ruan Changgeng , Yan Rong , Chen Mengxing , Dai Kesheng
Published: September 2014

Many immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) patients, particularly patients with anti-glycoprotein (GP) Ib-IX autoantibodies, do not respond to the conventional treatments such as splenectomy. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here we found that anti-GPIbα N-terminus antibody AN51, but not other anti-GPIbα antibodies (AK2, HIP1, VM16d, or WM23), induced GPIbα clustering that led to integrin αIIbβ3-dependent platelet aggregation. After intravenous injection, AN51 dose-dependently induced thrombocytopenia in guinea pigs, and the platelets were mainly removed by macrophages in the liver. N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, previously shown to inhibit integrin αMβ2-mediated phagocytosis of refrigerated platelets, dose-dependently inhibited AN51-induced platelet clearance. Furthermore, AN51 but not VM16d, induced rapid platelet clearance in the liver of cynomolgus macaques. Five of 22 chronic ITP patients had anti-GPIbα autoantibodies, and the autoantibodies from four of the five patients competed with AN51 for binding to platelets. These data indicate that GPIbα clustering induced by anti-GPIbα N-terminus antibody causes integrin αIIbβ3-dependent platelet aggregation, phagocytosis, and rapid platelet clearance in the liver. Our findings reveal a novel Fc-independent mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of ITP, and suggest new therapeutic strategies for ITP patients with anti-GPIbα autoantibodies.
Two new species of Gaeolaelaps (Acari: Mesostigmata: Laelapidae) from Iran, with a revised generic concept and notes on significant morphological characters in the genus
Authors: KAZEMI SHAHROOZ , RAJAEI ASMA , BEAULIEU FRÉDÉRIC
Published: September 2014

Two new species of laelapid mites of the genus Gaeolaelaps Evans & Till are described based on adult females collected from soil and litter in Kerman Province, southeastern Iran, and Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Gaeolaelaps jondishapouri Nemati & Kavianpour is redescribed based on the holotype and additional specimens collected in southeastern Iran. The concept of the genus is revised to incorporate some atypical characters of recently described species. Finally, some morphological attributes with potential to define natural species groupings as well as hypoaspidine genera are discussed, particularly idiosomal gland pores and poroids.
Discovery of Setihercostomus Zhang et Yang in the Afrotropical Region
(Diptera: Dolichopodidae)
Authors: GRICHANOV IGOR YA. , KAAE MATHIAS , PAPE THOMAS
Published: September 2014

Setihercostomus Zhang et Yang, 2005 is separated from the genus Hercostomus Loew, 1857, by the following combination of characters: clypeus short and narrow, not reaching lower margin of eyes, bearing one pair of strong bristles in both sexes; pteropleuron (= anepimeron) with group of fine hairs in front of posterior spiracle; male cercus large and thick, nearly as long as epandrium (Zhang & Yang 2005). Prior to this study, the genus has been recorded from the Palaearctic and Oriental regions (Zhang & Yang 2005; Yang et al. 2011), with two species from Oriental China, one known from both Palaearctic and Oriental China, one from Taiwan, and one from the Far East of Russia (Primorskii Territory). A female specimen of Setihercostomus has been recorded from Slovakia (Pollet 2009), which may be conspecific with S. setifacies (Stackelberg 1933) from the Russian Far East.
Book Review: M.G.S. Narayanan, Perumals of Kerala: Brahmin Oligarchy and Ritual Monarchy, Political and Social Conditions of Kerala under the Cera Perumals of Makotai (c. AD 800–1124)
Authors: Subbarayalu Y.
Published: September 2014

M.G.S. NARAYANAN, Perumals of Kerala: Brahmin Oligarchy and Ritual Monarchy, Political and Social Conditions of Kerala under the Cera Perumals of Makotai (c. AD 800–1124), Trissur: CosmoBooks, 2013, pp. 512.
Perceptions of Gender and Femininity Based on Language: Implications for Transgender Communication Therapy
Authors: Hancock Adrienne B. , Stutts Holly Wilder , Bass Annie
Published: September 2014

Recent research presents a picture of diminishing gender differences in language. Two experiments examined whether language use can predict perceptions of gender and femininity; one included male and female speakers telling a personal narrative, the other also included male-to-female transgender speakers and analyzed an oral picture description. In each experiment, raters read transcribed samples before judging the gender and rating the femininity of the speaker. Only number of T-units, words per T-unit, dependent clauses per T-unit, and personal pronouns per T-unit emerged as different between gender groups. As none of the variables were strongly correlated with perceptual judgments, regression analysis was used to determine how combinations of linguistic variables predict female/feminine ratings. Results from these two studies demonstrate that gender-related differences in language use for these two contexts are limited, and that any relationship of language to perceptions of gender and femininity is complex and multivariate. This information calls into question the utility of training key language features in transgender communication therapy.
An empirical examination of users’ adoption of mobile advertising in China
Authors: Gao Shang , Zang Zhe
Published: September 2014

With the development of mobile technology, mobile advertising has become popular worldwide. It seems that almost every user who owns a mobile device receives mobile advertisements from various service providers. However, most consumers hold negative attitudes towards mobile advertising. This research aims to investigate the factors which influence consumers’ adoption of mobile advertising. Based on a literature review from previous research, a research model is proposed. This research model is empirically evaluated using survey data collected from 302 receivers of mobile advertising in China. Consumers’ attitudes toward mobile advertising and incentives explain about 80 percent of consumers’ intention to receive mobile advertisements. In addition, entertainment, credibility, personalization and irritation all have direct effects on consumers’ attitudes toward mobile advertising; the effect of entertainment is quite strong. Both theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed.
Co-prevalence of carotid stenosis and coronary artery disease in Chinese patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gu Yuanyuan , Feng Laihui , Xu Yu , Zhao Yonghui
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To investigate the co-prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and carotid stenosis and to determine predictors related to CAD in Chinese patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), presenting without previously diagnosed or excluded CAD.

Methods

Consecutive patients with PAF were recruited. CAD was evaluated using multislice computed tomography. Intima–media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery was evaluated via ultrasonography.

Results

A total of 62/192 (32.3%) patients had CAD. Carotid stenosis was observed in 26/192 (13.5%) patients. The co-prevalence of carotid stenosis and CAD was 7.8% (15/192). The prevalence of carotid stenosis was 8.5%, 16.7%, 25.0%, and 41.7% in patients with zero-, one-, two-, and three-vessel CAD, respectively. Diabetes mellitus, maximal IMT and hyperhomocysteinaemia were independently related to the presence of CAD.

Conclusions

The prevalence of CAD was 32.3% in Chinese patients with PAF. Carotid stenosis and CAD co-occurred in 7.8% of patients, and the prevalence of carotid stenosis correlated with the severity of CAD. Screening of carotid stenosis is recommended, especially in patients with PAF and multivessel CAD.
Pathology of Natural Cases of Equine Endocrinopathic Laminitis Associated With Hyperinsulinemia
Authors: Karikoski N. P. , McGowan C. M. , Singer E. R. , Asplin K. E. , Tulamo R.-M. , Patterson-Kane J. C.
Published: September 2014

Laminitis in equids is a clinical syndrome usually associated with systemic disease. Endocrinopathies recently have been recognized as the most common cause of laminitis, with hyperinsulinemia playing a key role. Descriptions of laminitis-associated lesions have been confusing due to the wide range of experimental models used, failure of adequate clinical documentation for naturally occurring cases, lack of separate analysis of inflammatory and endocrinopathic laminitis, and uncertainty regarding normal morphological variation of lamellae. In this study, lamellar morphology and pathology were described in 14 laminitic horses and ponies that had hyperinsulinemia (>20 mIU/l), with reference to 25 age- and breed-matched controls. The type and severity of lesions noted had no correlation with reported clinical duration and in at least some cases must have preceded it. Lesions were largely localized abaxially within the lamellar tissue and included apoptotic cell death, as well as lamellar fusion, hyperplasia, and partial replacement with aberrant keratin containing nucleated debris and proteinaceous lakes. The lesions resulted in irregular margins between the inner horn and the lamellar tissue. Acute separation originated from the abaxial region, with minimal associated inflammation. Axially, epidermal lamellar tapering was the most frequent morphological observation. The lesions in these chronic cases of laminitis were similar to those described in some inflammatory laminitis models and contained features seen in developmental phases of hyperinsulinemic models. These findings support the theory that repeated episodes of subclinical laminitis occur prior to clinical presentation. In addition, the pathology does not include extensive basement membrane failure seen in some inflammatory models.
The Language of Resistance in a Counselling Group: Dynamics of Authority and Power
Authors: Kit Phey Ling , Wong Shyh Shin , D’Rozario Vilma , Bacsal Rhodas Myra
Published: September 2014

This study presents a qualitative exploration and analysis of the experiences of eight trainee group counsellors from Singapore, Malaysia, China and Japan, in an in-class face-to-face and on-line support group. The study sought to understand how participants co-constructed their experiences of the critical incident of resistance, which they had identified as significant in their post-group reflection papers. Conversation Analysis was used to analyse all session transcripts During the analytical process, it was found that two co-facilitators and one member had used interactional features such as the turn allocation process, conversational practices, declarations and prescriptions, to create and implement their authority and power in influencing the other group members in ways which were considered judgemental, disempowering and offensive by one member, who in turn became increasingly resistant.
Light Pulse Duration Differentially Regulates Mouse Locomotor Suppression and Phase Shifts
Authors: Morin Lawrence P. , Studholme Keith M.
Published: September 2014

Brief exposure of mice to nocturnal light causes circadian rhythm phase shifts, simultaneously inducing locomotor suppression, a drop in body temperature, and associated sleep. The exact nature of the relationship between these light-induced responses is uncertain, although locomotor suppression and phase shift magnitudes are related to stimulus irradiance. Whether stimulus duration has similar effects is less clear. Here, the relationship between stimulus duration and response magnitude was evaluated further using 100 µW/cm2 white light-emitting diode pulses administered for 30, 300, 1200, or 3000 sec. The results show that, in general, shorter pulses yielded smaller responses and larger pulses yielded larger responses. However, the 300-sec pulse failed to augment locomotor suppression compared with the effect of a 30-sec pulse (44.7 ± 4.8 vs 40.6 ± 2.0 min) but simultaneously induced much larger phase shifts (1.28 ± 0.20 vs 0.52 ± 0.11 h). The larger phase shifts induced by the 300-sec stimulus did not differ from those induced by either the 1200- or 3000-sec pulses (1.43 ± 0.10 and 1.30 ± 0.17 h, respectively). The results demonstrate differential photic regulation of the two response types. Pulses ranging from 300 to 3000 sec produce equal phase shifts (present data); pulses ranging from 30 to 600 sec produce equal locomotor suppression levels. Greater suppression can occur additively in response to pulses of 1200 sec or more (present data), but this is not true for phase shifts. Nocturnal light appears to trigger a fixed duration event, locomotor suppression, or phase shift, with the latter followed by a light-refractory interval during which locomotor suppression can additively increase. The results also provide further support for the view that temporal integration of photic energy applies, at best, across a limited set of stimulus durations for both light-induced locomotor suppression/sleep and phase shift regulation.
A Role for 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 in the Expression of Circadian Genes
Authors: Gutierrez-Monreal Miguel A. , Cuevas-Diaz Duran Raquel , Moreno-Cuevas Jorge E. , Scott Sean-Patrick
Published: September 2014

The active form of vitamin D, 1α,25-(OH)2D3, has been associated with metabolism control, cell growth, differentiation, antiproliferation, apoptosis, and adaptive/innate immune responses, besides its functions in the integrity of bone and calcium homeostasis. The circadian rhythm regulates a variety of biological processes, many of them related to the functions associated with 1α,25-(OH)2D3. In the present study, we determine whether 1α,25-(OH)2D3 alters the expression of circadian genes in adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). The effect of 1α,25-(OH)2D3 on the expression of circadian genes BMAL1 and PER2 was measured by qPCR, over a 60-h period every 4 h, in serum shocked ADSCs, serum shocked ADSCs supplemented with 1α,25-(OH)2D3, and ADSCs under the presence of only 1α,25-(OH)2D3. The results showed that 1α,25-(OH)2D3 was able to synchronize circadian clock gene expression in ADSCs. The expression of circadian genes BMAL1 and PER2 in ADSCs that contained only 1α,25-(OH)2D3 has a profile similar to that found in the ADSCs synchronized by a serum shock. The results suggest an important role of 1α,25-(OH)2D3 in the regulation of the molecular clock.
Deciding to Use Organizational Grievance Processes
Authors: Hopeck Paula , Desrayaud Nathalie , Harrison Tyler R. , Hatten Kristen
Published: September 2014

University ombuds serve as a resource for students who want to resolve conflicts with professors. However, little research examines the relationship between individual conflict style preferences, perceptions of procedural justice, and intentions to use ombuds processes. Professor–student conflict is a unique area of study because the relationship is temporary and also the first time that individuals deal with conflict as adults. This study examined the relationship between students’ preferred conflict style, their perceptions of procedural justice, and their intentions to use the ombuds system if involved in a conflict. Individuals with solution-oriented styles had positive perceptions of procedural justice, whereas control and nonconfrontation styles were associated with negative perceptions. In addition, individuals with solution-oriented styles were more likely to indicate intent to use ombuds systems. The findings provide further support for the original literature on conflict styles.
Validation of the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale-Turkish form and its relation to hope and optimism
Authors: Buyukgoze-Kavas Aysenur
Published: September 2014

In the present study, the Career Adapt-Abilities Scale (CAAS)—which aims to measure concern, control, curiosity, and confidence as psychosocial resources for managing occupational transitions, developmental tasks, and work traumas—was translated into Turkish in order to examine the factor structure and psychometric characteristics of the scale in a Turkish sample. Data was collected from 669 high school and university students. Internal consistency estimates for the subscales and total scores ranged from good to excellent. The factor structure of the CAAS-Turkish was similar to the hierarchical four-factor model of the CAAS-International. The relationships among career adaptability, hope, and optimism were found to be as expected. These results suggested that the CAAS-Turkish is a valid and reliable scale for use in Turkish high school and university students.
Does Female Incumbency Reduce Gender Bias in Elections? Evidence from Chile
Authors: Shair-Rosenfield Sarah , Hinojosa Magda
Published: September 2014

The incumbency advantage is typically thought to constrain female political representation, but can female incumbency provide a signal to parties that reduces strategic gender bias? We argue that once women prove they can win elections, parties will revise their strategic evaluations of their value as candidates. We test this using an original dataset of twenty-one Chilean elections between 1989 and 2012. We use a Heckman selection model to assess re-election rates by incumbent candidate gender, conditional on the re-nomination of incumbents. We find that female incumbents are just as likely to be re-nominated and re-elected as their male counterparts.
Preoperative Serum Bilirubin and Lactate Levels Predict Postoperative Morbidity and Mortality in Liver Surgery: A Single-Center Evaluation
Authors: Riediger C. , Mueller M. W. , Hapfelmeier A. , Bachmann J. , Friess H. , Kleeff J.
Published: September 2014

Background and Aims:

In spite of huge developments in liver surgery during the last decades, morbidity and mortality continue to pose problems in this field. The aim of this study was to identify preoperative predictors for postoperative mortality and morbidity in liver surgery.

Material and Methods:

In a single-center study, an extensive analysis of a prospective database, including clinical criteria and laboratory tests of patients undergoing liver surgery between July 2007 and July 2012 was performed. Cutoff values of selected laboratory tests were calculated.

Results:

In all, 337 patients were included in the study. Univariate analysis showed a statistically significant association of preoperative bilirubin, lactate, hemoglobin levels, platelet count, and prothrombin time with postoperative morbidity and mortality. Multivariate analysis revealed preoperatively elevated serum bilirubin and lactate levels as independent predictors for increased postoperative morbidity and mortality after liver surgery.

Conclusions:

The identified laboratory values showed a statistically significant association with postoperative morbidity and mortality in liver surgery and might be helpful in preoperative patient selection.
Mobile lifestyles: Conceptualizing heterogeneity in mobile youth culture
Authors: Vanden Abeele Mariek MP
Published: September 2014

Adolescents’ characteristic understanding and use of mobile phones have led observers to speak of a “mobile youth culture.” This article explores whether we can differentiate lifestyles within mobile youth culture. We construct a user typology of Flemish adolescent mobile phone users based on mobile phone gratifications. Eight gratifications were identified. Using these as segmentation variables, a cluster analysis differentiated a devoted ( N = 204), dependent ( N = 156), pragmatic ( N = 143), and disinterested ( N = 90) mobile lifestyle. These groups differed significantly in demographics and social–psychological characteristics, indicating that youths domesticate mobile phones in their life in response to the problems and opportunities that cross their particular path toward adulthood.
The Reintegration of Technology as a Function of Curriculum Reform
Authors: Staples Amy , Edmister Evette
Published: September 2014

The study utilized a case study approach to investigate the change in technology use of two teachers of elementary-aged students with moderate to severe disabilities during the first year of a multi-year professional development and research project. Participants in a larger multi-year professional development and research project focused on increasing educators’ capacity to provide comprehensive literacy instruction to their students; these teachers self-identified as interested in technology as a support for their students’ participation during instruction. Data sources included field notes and logs, interviews, classroom observations, photographs and video of instruction, and document review. The teachers made substantive changes in their literacy instruction as well as the technology tools they used to engage students instructionally. Two themes emerged from the data as influencers of technology integration: (a) the evolving nature of curriculum reform and (b) ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration. Implications for professional development and future research are shared.
Use of DMARDs and biologics during pregnancy and lactation in rheumatoid arthritis: what the rheumatologist needs to know
Authors: Krause Megan L. , Amin Shreyasee , Makol Ashima
Published: September 2014

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of synovial joints, can lead to chronic pain and structural joint damage, as well as other organ involvement, especially if not adequately controlled. Because it can affect women in their reproductive years, care of pregnant women with RA requires a delicate balance of maintaining disease control while limiting potential toxicity to the fetus and neonate. While most women experience a substantial improvement in disease activity during pregnancy, for some women their RA remains active. It can even manifest itself for the first time during pregnancy or early in the post-partum period. Optimizing disease control prior to conception is key, but utilizing disease-modifying treatments effectively and safely throughout pregnancy and lactation requires open dialogue and shared decision making. This review provides evidence-based recommendations for use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic response modifiers to guide rheumatologists in their care of pregnant and lactating women with RA and serves as a guide to counsel male patients with RA on family planning decisions.
Assessment of Diabetic Neuropathy Using a Point-of-Care Nerve Conduction Device Shows Significant Associations With the LDIFLARE Method and Clinical Neuropathy Scoring
Authors: Sharma Sanjeev , Vas Prashanth RJ , Rayman Gerry
Published: September 2014

Background:

Accurate assessment of diabetes polyneuropathy (DPN) is important in the prevention of foot ulcerations and amputations. Simple screening methods including the 10 g monofilament and the 128-Hz tuning fork are not sensitive enough nor intended for detection of early neuropathy, while more confirmatory tests such as nerve conduction studies are not universally available. We evaluated a rapid, low-cost, point-of-care nerve conduction device (POCD; NC-stat®|DPNCheck™) for the assessment of DPN and compared it with the LDIFLARE technique—an established method for early detection of small fibre dysfunction.

Methods:

A total of 162 patients with diabetes (DM) and 80 healthy controls (HC) were recruited. Based on the 10-point Neuropathy Disability Score (NDS), DPN was categorized into none (<2), mild (3-5) moderate (6-7), and severe (8-10). The LDIFLARE was performed in all patients according to previously described methodology. The associations between POCD outcomes and the LDIFLARE within the NDS categories were evaluated using regression analysis.

Results:

In HC and DM, SNCV measured with the POCD correlated significantly with the LDIFLARE technique ( r < 0.90 and r = 0.78, respectively) as did SNAP ( r = 0.88 and r = 0.73, respectively); in addition, significance was found in all categories of DPN ( r = 0.64 to 0.84; p= ≤ 0.03). ROC curves within each category of DPN showed that the POCD was sensitive in the assessment of DPN.

Conclusion:

We report highly significant linear relationships between the POCD with both comparators—the LDIFLARE technique and clinical neuropathy scores. Thus, the NC-stat|DPNCheck™ system appears to be an excellent adjunctive diagnostic tool for diagnosing DPN in the clinical setting.
Bioequivalence of two formulations of montelukast sodium 4 mg oral granules in healthy adults
Authors: Fey Constanze , Thyroff‐Friesinger Ursula , Jones Spencer
Published: September 2014

Montelukast is an effective and well‐tolerated treatment for the prophylaxis and chronic treatment of asthma, acute prevention of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction and symptomatic relief of seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis. The aim of the study was to compare bioavailability, and characterise the pharmacokinetic profile and safety of Sandoz generic montelukast 4 mg oral granules relative to Singulair® mini (Merck, Sharp & Dohme). An open‐label, randomised, single‐dose, two‐treatment, two‐period, two‐sequence, two‐way crossover bioequivalence study was conducted in healthy male volunteers aged 18–55 years, under fasting conditions. The duration of the clinical part of the trial was ≈ 11 days. Montelukast levels in plasma were quantified using a validated liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method, and pharmacokinetic parameters calculated from the drug concentration–time profile using a non‐compartmental model. A total of 40 subjects completed both study periods. The ratio test/reference of geometric least squares means was calculated for both formulations of montelukast for the In‐transformed pharmacokinetic parameters; the 90% confidence intervals (CIs) were within the pre‐defined limits of 80.00–125.00%: 92.2% (90% CI: 87.42–97.30%) for Cmax, 98.1% (90% CI: 94.49–101.81%) for AUC0–t and 97.6% (90% CI: 94.14–101.27%) for AUC0–∞. Two study subjects each reported one mild adverse event: dyspepsia (possibly related to study medication) and throat pain (not considered related to study medication). Sandoz montelukast 4 mg oral granules are bioequivalent to Singulair® 4 mg mini oral granules, with a similar safety profile. This suggests that these two preparations can be considered interchangeable in clinical practice.
Cloning, phylogeny, and expression analysis of the Broad-Complex gene in the longicorn beetle Psacothea hilaris
Authors: Nagamine Keisuke , Kayukawa Takumi , Hoshizaki Sugihiko , Matsuo Takashi , Shinoda Tetsuro , Ishikawa Yukio
Published: September 2014

Seven isoforms of Broad-Complex (PhBR-C), in which the sequence of the zinc finger domain differed (referred to as Z1, Z2, Z3, Z2/Z3, Z4, Z5/Z6, and Z6, respectively), were cloned from the yellow-spotted longicorn beetle Psacothea hilaris. The Z1–Z4 sequences were highly conserved among insect species. The Z5/Z6 isoform was aberrant in that it contained a premature stop codon. Z6 had previously only been detected in a hemimetabola, the German cockroach Blattella germanica. The presence of Z6 in P. hilaris, and not in other holometabolous model insects such as Drosophila melanogaster or Tribolium castaneum, suggests that Z6 was lost multiple times in holometabolous insects during the course of evolution. PhBR-C expression levels in the brain, salivary gland, and epidermis of larvae grown under different feeding regimens were subsequently investigated. PhBR-C expression levels increased in every tissue examined after the gut purge, and high expression levels were observed in prepupae. A low level of PhBR-C expression was continuously observed in the brain. An increase was noted in PhBR-C expression levels in the epidermis when 4th instar larvae were starved after 4 days of feeding, which induced precocious pupation. No significant changes were observed in expression levels in any tissues of larvae starved immediately after ecdysis into 4th instar, which did not grow and eventually died.
The Sacred Object
Authors: Gayk Shannon , Malo Robyn
Published: September 2014

This special issue of the Journal of Medieval and Early Modern Studies explores the many continuities between medieval and early modern ideas about the sacred object. Until recently, the European Protestant Reformations were usually understood to mark a sharp break in the culture of the sacred object. Critical approaches to the status of religious objects across the period have often reflected this narrative of rupture: before the Reformations, belief that the divine inhered in the material world, and after the Reformations, concern about idolatry; before the Reformations, the sacred object, and after the Reformations, the holy book. The essays of this special issue diverge from narratives of cultural rupture, iconoclasm, or violence against the sacred object. Instead, they attend to the complexities and continuities of cultural translation, whether between medieval and early modern, Catholic and Protestant, secular and sacred, or natural and constructed.
Sidney Montagu and the Sacramental Sign: Memorial and Sacred Objects in Post-Reformation England
Authors: Phillippy Patricia
Published: September 2014

Following three-year-old Henry Montagu’s death in 1625, his father installed a memorial comprised of three objects in Barnwell All Saints Church. In addition to an alabaster monument, Sidney Montagu incorporated into his memorial program a thirteenth-century piscina (a basin for washing liturgical vessels), and a painted wooden box containing a manuscript sheet, “Upon the Birth and death of his deere sonne.” Montagu’s commemorative program invests memorial artifacts with the qualities attributed to sacred objects and develops and defends a private idolatry in which secular objects acquire the aura of the sacred. While the Barnwell monument engages with a high church view of the sacraments as signs of remembrance, the manuscript box reveals Montagu turning from the sacramental to the superstitious. This object displays how religious faith and personal belief bleed into each other when sacred objects, images, and practices move into secular spheres.
Water and Wood: Ecomateriality and Sacred Objects at the Chapel of Saint-Fiacre, Le Faouët (Brittany)
Authors: Harris Anne F.
Published: September 2014

The devotional complex of the chapel of Saint-Fiacre in Brittany offers an exceptional opportunity to consider the role of the natural world in the construction of the sacred in the late Middle Ages. Interactions between landscape, architecture, and ritual, this essay argues, created a devotional experience replete with the presence of the natural world. As prominent ecological features and building materials, the ecological phenomena of water and wood were instrumental in the construction of ritual worship at Saint-Fiacre. Spring water flowing from a nearby source and oak wood hewn from the surrounding forest shaped sacred objects in and around the rural healing chapel. The ecological characteristics of healing waters intersected with understandings of the salvific theology of the blood of Christ; the hewn ecology of the oak jubé or rood screen framed the ontological complexity of Christ’s human and divine body on the cross. Through an ecocritical study of the chapel’s healing fountain and its double-sided jubé, this essay examines the persistence of the natural within the sacred.
Embodying the Historical Moment: Tombs and Idols in the Histoire ancienne jusqu’à César
Authors: Akbari Suzanne Conklin
Published: September 2014

The sharp divide between sacred and secular objects is ultimately an arbitrary one: sacrality is less a quality inherent in the object itself than a product of the way in which the object is seen. This is particularly evident in medieval universal histories, in which all events are brought within the economy of salvation history, serving as threads in a larger fabric of the narration of the past. In the construction of this historical web, monumental objects play an important role. In the thirteenth-century Histoire ancienne jusqu’à César, copied at the Crusader stronghold of Acre, objects such as the gates of Janus in imperial Rome, the Tower of Babel, and the fortified city of Troy serve as potent emblems of turning points in the historical past and as potential springboards toward an imagined future. These monumental points of reference form a lattice of historical parallels that impose form upon past time.
Chemoselective and Kilogram-Scale Synthesis of Acetanilide β3-Adrenergic Receptor Agonist
Authors: Kawazoe Souichirou , Suzuki Takayuki , Nakamura Hirofumi , Sugimori Toshiyuki , Onda Kenichi , Maruyama Tatsuya , Okada Minoru
Published: September 2014

We describe an alternative route for the synthesis of β3-adrenergic receptor agonist (S)-2-(2-phenylamino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)-4′-{2-[(2-hydroxy-3-phenoxypropyl)amino]ethyl}acetanilide (1). The key intermediate (S)-1-{[2-(4-aminophenyl)ethyl]amino}-3-phenoxypropan-2-ol monohydrochloride (2) was condensed with 2-(2-phenylamino-1,3-thiazol-4-yl)acetic acid (3) using 1-ethyl-3-(3′-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDCI·HCl) to give 1 as a product of chemoselective amide formation on the aromatic amine moiety. This synthetic route was successfully applied to kilogram-scale preparation without purification via chromatography.
Formation of Isomerized E,Z-Configured 1,3-Dienes in Construction of Macrocyclic Trienes by Diene-Ene RCM
Authors: Takagi Ryukichi , Tanaka Kenji , Yamamoto Koumei , Hiraga Yoshikazu , Kojima Satoshi , Abe Manabu
Published: September 2014

Construction of macrocyclic trienes by diene-ene RCM of tetraenes was examined. In the reactions, macrocyclic trienes were obtained as a mixture of two isomers with E,Z-configured 1,3-diene moiety. The formation of two isomers can be understandable by the E–Z isomerization of the initially generated ruthenium–alkenyl carbene intermediate.
Carcinoma de pele no segmento craniofacial: Relato de 3 casos
Authors: Pereira Maia Iana Lara , Silva Joaquim José , Alexandrino Regino Hafiza Gonçalves , Regino Khadija Neide Alexandrino , Barbosa e Sila Liana , Rogério Nunes Sônia Araújo
Published: September 2014

O câncer de pele é a neoplasia mais frequente no Brasil. O tipo histológico mais comum é o carcinoma basocelular (CBC), 70% dos casos, seguido pelo carcinoma espinocelular (CEC) e pelo melanoma. Relatamos três carcinomas de pele no segmento crânio facial, evidenciando as abordagens cirúrgicas realizadas. No caso 1, apresenta-se um CBC em hemiface submetido à exérese com retalho V-Y. No caso 2, destaca-se um CEC em couro cabeludo submetido à exérese com retalhos de rotação e da vizinhança. No caso 3, relata-se um CBC na região pré-auricular e no dorso nasal submetido à exérese com retalho de Limberg e de Rieger.
Profile of acid-base disturbances in an intensive care unit of Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil.
Authors: Rodrigues Renan Barbosa , Farias de Araújo Maria Cristina , Nascimento Payron Augusto , Rodrigues Patricia Barbosa , Soares Pereira Ricardo Victor , Patrocinio Manoel Claudio Azevedo
Published: September 2014

Introduction: Acid – base disturbances are entities caused by the deregulation of the concentration of bicarbonate ions, the concentration of hydrogen ions and the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in the blood. These disturbances modify most cell fuctions when present, jeopardizing the proper functioning of organs.Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study based upon data collected from medical files of patients in ICU as seen from August 1 to December 31, 2013 at the Dr. José Frota Institute in Fortaleza, Ceará. The variables studied were: age, sex, cause of ICU admission, pH, HCO3-, pO2, pCO2 , glomerular filtration rate ( GFR ), serum potassium concentrarion, serum magnesium concentration, serum creatinine and hemoglobin levels.Results: The most frequent disorders were primary respiratory alkalosis with               33 ( 38,4 % ) cases, 30 ( 34,9 % ) of metabolic alkalosis, 13 ( 15.1% ) of metabolic acidosis,    7 ( 8,2% ) did not present acid-base disorders and respiratory acidosis           3 ( 3,5%). Patients admitted with TBI had respiratory alkalosis as the most common primary disorder, followed by metabolic alkalosis, 16 ( 47,0 % ) and 13 ( 38,2 % ), respectively. The main disturbances were mixed respiratory alkalosis with metabolic alkalosis and respiratory alkalosis with metabolic alkalosis found in 15.12% of patients in each of these combinations. Conclusion:The importance  of a detailed evaluation of acid-base disturbances is necessary since these disorders lead to higher mortality rates, so it is necessary to establish the main types of disorders that are associated with a particular cause of hospitalization .