bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do physiotherapy staff record treatment time accurately? An observational study
Authors: Bagley Pam , Hudson Mary , Green John , Forster Anne , Young John
Published: May 2009

Objective: To assess the reliability of duration of treatment time measured by physiotherapy staff in early-stage stroke patients.

Design: Comparison of physiotherapy staff’s recording of treatment sessions and video recording.

Setting: Rehabilitation stroke unit in a general hospital.

Subjects: Thirty-nine stroke patients without trunk control or who were unable to stand with an erect trunk without the support of two therapists recruited to a randomized trial evaluating the Oswestry Standing Frame. Twenty-six physiotherapy staff who were involved in patient treatment.

Main measures: Contemporaneous recording by physiotherapy staff of treatment time (in minutes) compared with video recording.

Statistical analysis: Intraclass correlation with 95% confidence interval and the Bland and Altman method for assessing agreement by calculating the mean difference (standard deviation; 95% confidence interval), reliability coefficient and 95% limits of agreement for the differences between the measurements.

Results: The mean duration (standard deviation, SD) of treatment time recorded by physiotherapy staff was 32 (11) minutes compared with 25 (9) minutes as evidenced in the video recording. The mean difference (SD) was —6 (9) minutes (95% confidence interval (CI) —9 to —3). The reliability coefficient was 18 minutes and the 95% limits of agreement were —24 to 12 minutes. Intraclass correlation coefficient for agreement between the two methods was 0.50 (95% CI 0.12 to 0.73).

Conclusions: Physiotherapy staff’s recording of duration of treatment time was not reliable and was systematically greater than the video recording.
Symbolic versus Blind Patriotism
Authors: Parker Christopher S.
Published: May 2009

Patriotism is an important predictor of political attitudes and preferences. Nevertheless, the complexity of patriotism remains unresolved, especially as it pertains to blind and symbolic patriotism. Symbolic patriotism represents a relatively abstract, affective attachment to the nation and its core values. Blind patriotism, in contrast, is more concrete, indexing uncritical support for national policies and practices. While the concepts appear analytically distinct, their political consequences are often similar, leading one to question whether the distinction is real. The results offer some support for maintaining conceptual differences between blind and symbolic patriotism.
Seriously Mentally Ill Women’s Safer Sex Behaviors and the Theory of Reasoned Action
Authors: Randolph Mary E. , Pinkerton Steven D. , Somlai Anton M. , Kelly Jeffrey A. , McAuliffe Timothy L. , Gibson Richard H. , Hackl Kristin
Published: May 2009

Seriously mentally ill women at risk for HIV infection ( n = 96) participated in structured interviews assessing sexual and substance-use behavior over a 3-month period. The majority of the women (63.5%) did not use condoms. Consistent with the theory of reasoned action, attitudes toward condom use and perceived social norms about safer sex were associated with safer sex intentions. Supplementing variables from the theory of reasoned action with safer sex self-efficacy explained additional variance in safer sex intentions. Greater safer sex intentions were related to both greater condom use and less frequent unprotected intercourse. In addition, less frequent sex after drug use and a less fatalistic outlook were associated with less frequent unprotected intercourse. Life circumstances specific to this population are particularly important to examine to improve the effectiveness of risk reduction interventions for seriously mentally ill women.
Phonetic variability and the variable perception of L2 word stress by French Canadian listeners
Authors: Tremblay Annie
Published: May 2009

This study investigates development and individual attainment in the perception of word stress by French Canadian second language (L2) learners of English at three proficiency levels (intermediate, low-advanced, high-advanced). It aims to determine whether a perceptual or a processing deficit is responsible for their so-called stress `deafness' (e.g., Dupoux et al., 1997, 2001, 2008). Seventy-five French Canadian L2 learners of English and 31 native English speakers completed an AXB perception task in English where contrast type (stress, segmental) and phonetic variability (with, without) were manipulated, but where processing demands were relatively low. The results indicate that the L2 learners had more difficulty perceiving English stress in the presence than in the absence of phonetic variability. Yet, their perception of stress in the phonetically variable condition was above chance and improved as the number of trials increased. Although the three proficiency groups did not perform significantly differently on the experiment, the L2 learners' self-reported per cent daily use of English was found to be a significant predictor of their successful perception of phonetically variable stress. Given these findings, it is argued that French listeners' reported lack of success in the perception of word stress is unlikely to stem from a perceptual deficit.
Code-switching in bilingual children with specific language impairment
Authors: Gutiérrez-Clellen Vera F. , Simon-Cereijido Gabriela , Erickson Leone Angela
Published: May 2009

Children with specific language impairment (SLI) exhibit limited grammatical skills compared to their peers with typical language. These difficulties may be revealed when alternating their two languages (i.e., code-switching) within sentences. Fifty-eight Spanish—English speaking children with and without SLI produced narratives using wordless picture books and conversational samples. The results indicated no significant differences in the proportion of utterances with code-switching (CS) across age groups or contexts of elicitation. There were significant effects for language dominance, language of testing, and a significant dominance by language of testing interaction. The English-dominant children demonstrated more CS when tested in their non-dominant language (Spanish) compared to the Spanish-dominant children tested in their weaker English. The children with SLI did not display more CS or more instances of atypical CS patterns compared to their typical peers. The findings indicate that children with SLI are capable of using grammatical CS, in spite of their language difficulties. In addition, the analyses suggest that CS is sensitive to sociolinguistic variables such as when the home language is not socially supported in the larger sociocultural context. In these cases, children may refrain from switching to the home language, even if that is their dominant language.
Knowledge of A/A'-dependencies on subject extraction with two types of infinitives in non-native Portuguese adult bilingualism
Authors: Rothman Jason
Published: May 2009

Within generative L2 acquisition research there is a longstanding debate as to what underlies observable differences in L1/L2 knowledge/ performance. On the one hand, Full Accessibility approaches maintain that target L2 syntactic representations (new functional categories and features) are acquirable (e.g., Schwartz & Sprouse, 1996). Conversely, Partial Accessibility approaches claim that L2 variability and/or optionality, even at advanced levels, obtains as a result of inevitable deficits in L2 narrow syntax and is conditioned upon a maturational failure in adulthood to acquire (some) new functional features (e.g., Beck, 1998; Hawkins & Chan, 1997; Hawkins & Hattori, 2006; Tsimpli & Dimitrakopoulou, 2007). The present study tests the predictions of these two sets of approaches with advanced English learners of L2 Brazilian Portuguese (n = 21) in the domain of inflected infinitives. These advanced L2 learners reliably differentiate syntactically between finite verbs, uninflected and inflected infinitives, which, as argued, only supports Full Accessibility approaches. Moreover, we will discuss how testing the domain of inflected infinitives is especially interesting in light of recent proposals that Brazilian Portuguese colloquial dialects no longer actively instantiate them (Lightfoot, 1991; Pires, 2002, 2006; Pires & Rothman, 2009; Rothman, 2007).
Dissemination in action research
Authors: Sommer Robert
Published: May 2009

Lewin proposed three goals for action research: to advance knowledge; to improve a concrete situation; and to improve behavioral science methodology. The three objectives cannot be met by a single mode of dissemination. Innovative dissemination strategies will be necessary. Action researchers should publish substantive articles in technical journals to reach colleagues; applied articles in periodicals read by practitioners and the public; and methodological and reflective articles in associational and professional journals designed to improve the practice of action research.
Leveraging acculturation through action research
Authors: Okigbo Charles , Reierson Jennifer , Stowman Shelly
Published: May 2009

The demographic changes in contemporary American society portend serious consequences with far-reaching implications for the future development of the country. One of the more serious challenges is in the influx of refugees and new immigrants many of whom are not acculturating as easily as in the past. Unfortunately, the use of conventional research methods in studying acculturation has not yielded many actionable solutions to the adaptation problems, nor have newcomers been engaged as co-researchers. In this longitudinal study, action research approaches of participatory and community action research as well as action inquiry were used to identify the most pressing acculturation problems and also to engage the subjects (co-researchers) in proffering practical solutions to these problems. The results provide lessons for newcomers and resettlement agencies that are interested in promoting successful integration. The use of a variety of action research approaches for each of the three phases of this project illustrates the versatility of action research in different social contexts, especially in evolving situations with different social groups.
Black and White and Shades of Gray
Authors: Liebes Tamar , Kampf Zohar
Published: May 2009

An examination of the Israeli media coverage of Palestinians during the 2nd Intifada demonstrates a new openness, not compatible with the “crisis routine” of rallying around the flag. Fifteen years earlier, in the 1st Intifada, Palestinians were altogether excluded from the screen. This time round, in spite of the higher level of violence, the Israeli public was exposed to their human side—as political leaders, victims, witnesses, and even terrorists. The authors’ analysis of news photos and television representations (2000—2005) reveals that during the 2nd Intifada coverage was expanded to include a broad range of Palestinian figures. Alongside traditional framing, Palestinians are also seen as ordinary people living under occupation, often as direct victims of the Israeli military. Analysis of the relationship among these images (including their textual framing), with their implied readers and with “real” readers with ideological preconceptions, leads to arguing that the emotional appeal of the varied representation calls into question the understanding of the conflict as a fixated black-and-white dichotomy. The authors suggest reasons for this new media openness. In conclusion, the authors point to the ways in which their model can facilitate an understanding of images of the “other” side in armed conflicts.
Accuracy and Cost Comparison of Ultrasound Versus Alternative Imaging Modalities, Including CT, MR, PET, and Angiography
Authors: Bierig S. Michelle , Jones Anne
Published: May 2009

Ultrasound (US) has become widely used in clinical medicine for the diagnosis of a variety of disease processes. The unique ability of US to provide accurate information through an efficacious, painless, portable, and nonionizing method has expanded its role and application in diverse medical settings. Given the current economic environment and the related interest in creating the greatest value for health care expenditures, US has been evaluated to compare its clinical accuracy/efficacy and cost-effectiveness versus other imaging modalities. The following literature review reports the results of research studies aimed at comparing the accuracy/efficacy and cost of US versus alternative imaging modalities, including magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, contrast angiography, and single-photon emission computed tomography.
Polo-like kinase 1 is overexpressed in acute myeloid leukemia and its inhibition preferentially targets the proliferation of leukemic cells
Authors: Renner Annelies G. , Dos Santos Cédric , Recher Christian , Bailly Christian , Créancier Laurent , Kruczynski Anna , Payrastre Bernard , Manenti Stéphane
Published: May 2009

Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) is a major mitotic regulator overexpressed in many solid tumors. Its role in hematopoietic malignancies is still poorly characterized. In this study, we demonstrate that Plk1 is highly expressed in leukemic cell lines, and overexpressed in a majority of samples from patients with acute myeloid leukemia compared with normal progenitors. A pharmacologic inhibitor, BI2536, blocks proliferation in established cell lines, and dramatically inhibits the clonogenic potential of leukemic cells from patients. Plk1 knockdown by small interfering RNA also blocked proliferation of leukemic cell lines and the clonogenic potential of primary cells from patients. Interestingly, normal primary hematopoietic progenitors are less sensitive to Plk1 inhibition than leukemic cells, whose proliferation is dramatically decreased by the inhibitor. These results highlight Plk1 as a potentially interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia.
A murine model for induction of long-term immunologic tolerance to factor VIII does not require persistent detectable levels of plasma factor VIII and involves contributions from Foxp3+ T regulatory cells
Authors: Matsui Hideto , Shibata Masaru , Brown Brian , Labelle Andrea , Hegadorn Carol , Andrews Chandler , Chuah Marinee , VandenDriessche Thierry , Miao Carol H. , Hough Christine , Lillicrap David
Published: May 2009

Under certain instances, factor VIII (FVIII) stimulates an immune response, and the resulting neutralizing antibodies present a significant clinical challenge. Immunotherapies to re-establish or induce long-term tolerance would be beneficial, and an in-depth knowledge of mechanisms involved in tolerance induction is essential to develop immune-modulating strategies. We have developed a murine model system for studying mechanisms involved in induction of immunologic tolerance to FVIII in hemophilia A mice. We used lentiviral vectors to deliver the canine FVIII transgene to neonatal hemophilic mice and demonstrated that induction of long-term FVIII tolerance could be achieved. Hemophilia A mice are capable of mounting a robust immune response to FVIII after neonatal gene transfer, and tolerance induction is dependent on the route of delivery and type of promoter used. High-level expression of FVIII was not required for tolerance induction and, indeed, tolerance developed in some animals without evidence of detectable plasma FVIII. Tolerance to FVIII could be adoptively transferred to naive hemophilia recipient mice, and FVIII-stimulated splenocytes isolated from tolerized mice expressed increased levels of interleukin-10 and decreased levels of interleukin-6 and interferon-γ. Finally, induction of FVIII tolerance mediated by this protocol is associated with a FVIII-expandable population of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells.
Psychotropic medication use among nursing home residents in Austria: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mann Eva , Köpke Sascha , Haastert Burkhard , Pitkälä Kaisu , Meyer Gabriele
Published: May 2009

Background

The use of psychotropic medications and their adverse effects in frail elderly has been debated extensively. However, recent data from European studies show that these drugs are still frequently prescribed in nursing home residents. In Austria, prevalence data are lacking. We aimed to determine the prevalence of psychotropic medication prescription in Austrian nursing homes and to explore characteristics associated with their prescription.

Methods

Cross-sectional study and association analysis in forty-eight out of 50 nursing homes with 1844 out of a total of 2005 residents in a defined urban-rural region in Austria. Prescribed medication was retrieved from residents' charts. Psychotropic medications were coded according to the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification 2005. Cluster-adjusted multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate institutional and residents' characteristics associated with prescription.

Results

Residents' mean age was 81; 73% of residents were female. Mean cluster-adjusted prevalence of residents with at least one psychotropic medication was 74.6% (95% confidence interval, CI, 72.0–77.2). A total of 45.9% (95% CI 42.7–49.1) had at least one prescription of an antipsychotic medication. Two third of all antipsychotic medications were prescribed for bedtime use only. Anxiolytics were prescribed in 22.2% (95% CI 20.0–24.5), hypnotics in 13.3% (95% CI 11.3–15.4), and antidepressants in 36.8% (95% CI 34.1–39.6) of residents. None of the institutional characteristics and only few residents' characteristics were significantly associated with psychotropic medication prescription. Permanent restlessness was positively associated with psychotropic medication prescription (AOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.32–1.79) whereas cognitive impairment was inversely associated (AOR 0.70, 95% CI 0.56–0.88).

Conclusion

Frequency of psychotropic medication prescription is high in Austrian nursing homes compared to recent published data from other countries. Interventions should aim at reduction and optimisation of prescriptions.
Groucho binds two conserved regions of LEF-1 for HDAC-dependent repression
Authors: Arce Laura , Pate Kira T , Waterman Marian L
Published: May 2009

Background

DrosophilaGroucho and its human Transducin-like-Enhancer of Split orthologs (TLEs) function as transcription co-repressors within the context of Wnt signaling, a pathway with strong links to cancer. The current model for how Groucho/TLE's modify Wnt signaling is by direct competition with β-catenin for LEF/TCF binding. The molecular events involved in this competitive interaction are not defined and the actions of Groucho/TLEs within the context of Wnt-linked cancer are unknown.

Methods

We usedin vitroprotein interaction assays with the LEF/TCF family member LEF-1, andin vivoassays with Wnt reporter plasmids to define Groucho/TLE interaction and repressor function.

Results

Mapping studies reveal that Groucho/TLE binds two regions in LEF-1. The primary site of recognition is a 20 amino acid region in the Context Dependent Regulatory domain. An auxiliary site is in the High Mobility Group DNA binding domain. Mutation of an eight amino acid sequence within the primary region (RFSHHMIP) results in a loss of Groucho action in a transient reporter assay.DrosophilaGroucho, human TLE-1, and a truncated human TLE isoform Amino-enhancer-of-split (AES), work equivalently to repress LEF-1•β-catenin transcription in transient reporter assays, and these actions are sensitive to the HDAC inhibitor Trichostatin A. A survey of Groucho/TLE action in a panel of six colon cancer cell lines with elevated β-catenin shows that Groucho is not able to repress transcription in a subset of these cell lines.

Conclusion

Our data shows that Groucho/TLE repression requires two sites of interaction in LEF-1 and that a central, conserved amino acid sequence within the primary region (F S/T/P/xx y I/L/V) is critical. Our data also reveals that AES opposes LEF-1 transcription activation and that both Groucho and AES repression require histone deacetylase activity suggesting multiple steps in Groucho competition with β-catenin. The variable ability of Groucho/TLE to oppose Wnt signaling in colon cancer cells suggests there may be defects in one or more of these steps.
Mung Bean nuclease mapping of RNAs 3' end
Authors: Bellavia Daniele , Sisino Giorgia , Papadopoulos Giorgio L , Forte Giusi I , Barbieri Rainer
Published: May 2009

A method is described that allows an accurate mapping of 3' ends of RNAs. In this method a labeled DNA probe, containing the presumed 3' end of the RNA under analysis is allowed to anneals to the RNA itself. Mung-bean nuclease is then used to digest single strands of both RNA and DNA. Electrophoretic fractionation of "protected" undigested, labeled DNA is than performed using a sequence reaction of a known DNA as length marker. This procedure was applied to the analysis of both a polyA RNA (Interleukin 10 mRNA) and non polyA RNAs (sea urchin 18S and 26S rRNAs). This method might be potentially relevant for the evaluation of the role of posttrascriptional control of IL-10 in the pathogenesis of the immune and inflammatory mediated diseases associated to ageing. This might allow to develop new strategies to approach to the diagnosis and therapy of age related diseases.
Role of biomechanics in the understanding of normal, injured, and healing ligaments and tendons
Authors: Jung Ho-Joong , Fisher Matthew B , Woo Savio L-Y
Published: May 2009

Ligaments and tendons are soft connective tissues which serve essential roles for biomechanical function of the musculoskeletal system by stabilizing and guiding the motion of diarthrodial joints. Nevertheless, these tissues are frequently injured due to repetition and overuse as well as quick cutting motions that involve acceleration and deceleration. These injuries often upset this balance between mobility and stability of the joint which causes damage to other soft tissues manifested as pain and other morbidity, such as osteoarthritis.

The healing of ligament and tendon injuries varies from tissue to tissue. Tendinopathies are ubiquitous and can take up to 12 months for the pain to subside before one could return to normal activity. A ruptured medial collateral ligament (MCL) can generally heal spontaneously; however, its remodeling process takes years and its biomechanical properties remain inferior when compared to the normal MCL. It is also known that a midsubstance anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear has limited healing capability, and reconstruction by soft tissue grafts has been regularly performed to regain knee function. However, long term follow-up studies have revealed that 20–25% of patients experience unsatisfactory results. Thus, a better understanding of the function of ligaments and tendons, together with knowledge on their healing potential, may help investigators to develop novel strategies to accelerate and improve the healing process of ligaments and tendons.

With thousands of new papers published in the last ten years that involve biomechanics of ligaments and tendons, there is an increasing appreciation of this subject area. Such attention has positively impacted clinical practice. On the other hand, biomechanical data are complex in nature, and there is a danger of misinterpreting them. Thus, in these review, we will provide the readers with a brief overview of ligaments and tendons and refer them to appropriate methodologies used to obtain their biomechanical properties. Specifically, we hope the reader will pay attention to how the properties of these tissues can be altered due to various experimental and biologic factors. Following this background material, we will present how biomechanics can be applied to gain an understanding of the mechanisms as well as clinical management of various ligament and tendon ailments. To conclude, new technology, including imaging and robotics as well as functional tissue engineering, that could form novel treatment strategies to enhance healing of ligament and tendon are presented.
Neutrophils exhibit distinct phenotypes toward chitosans with different degrees of deacetylation: implications for cartilage repair
Authors: Simard Pascale , Galarneau Hugo , Marois Sébastien , Rusu Daniel , Hoemann Caroline D , Poubelle Patrice E , El-Gabalawy Hani , Fernandes Maria JG
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the progressive destruction of cartilage in the articular joints. Novel therapies that promote resurfacing of exposed bone in focal areas are of interest in osteoarthritis because they may delay the progression of this disabling disease in patients who develop focal lesions. Recently, the addition of 80% deacetylated chitosan to cartilage microfractures was shown to promote the regeneration of hyaline cartilage. The molecular mechanisms by which chitosan promotes cartilage regeneration remain unknown. Because neutrophils are transiently recruited to the microfracture site, the effect of 80% deacetylated chitosan on the function of neutrophils was investigated. Most studies on neutrophils use preparations of chitosan with an uncertain degree of deacetylation. For therapeutic purposes, it is of interest to determine whether the degree of deacetylation influences the response of neutrophils to chitosan. The effect of 95% deacetylated chitosan on the function of neutrophils was therefore also investigated and compared with that of 80% deacetylated chitosan.

Methods

Human blood neutrophils from healthy donors were isolated by centrifugation on Ficoll-Paque. Chemotaxis was performed using the chemoTX system. Production of superoxide anions was evaluated using the cytochrome c reduction assay. Degranulation was determined by evaluating the release of myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin. The internalization of fluorescently labelled 80% deacetylated chitosan by neutrophils was studied by confocal microscopy.

Results

Neutrophils were dose dependently attracted to 80% deacetylated chitosan. In contrast, 95% deacetylated chitosan was not chemotactic for neutrophils. Moreover, the majority of the chemotactic effect of 80% deacetylated chitosan was mediated by phospholipase-A2-derived bioactive lipids. Contrary to the induction of chemotaxis, neither 80% nor 95% deacetylated chitosan activated the release of granule enzymes or the generation of active oxygen species. Despite the distinct response of neutrophils toward 80% and 95% deacetylated chitosan, both chitosans were internalized by neutrophils.

Conclusions

Eighty per cent deacetylated chitosan induces a phenotype in neutrophils that is distinct from the classical phenotype induced by pro-inflammatory agents. Our observations also indicate that the degree of deacetylation is an important factor to consider in the use of chitosan as an accelerator of repair because neutrophils do not respond to 95% deacetylated chitosan.
Sonophoresis: recent advancements and future trends
Authors: Rao Rekha , Nanda Sanju
Published: May 2009

Objectives

Use of ultrasound in therapeutics and drug delivery has gained importance in recent years, evident by the increase in patents filed and new commercial devices launched. The present review discusses new advancements in sonophoretic drug delivery in the last two decades, and highlights important challenges still to be met to make this technology of more use in the alleviation of diseases.

Key findings

Phonophoretic research often suffers from poor calibration in terms of the amount of ultrasound energy emitted, and therefore current research must focus on safety of exposure to ultrasound and miniaturization of devices in order to make this technology a commercial reality. More research is needed to identify the role of various parameters influencing sonophoresis so that the process can be optimized. Establishment of long-term safety issues, broadening the range of drugs that can be delivered through this system, and reduction in the cost of delivery are issues still to be addressed.

Sonophoresis (phonophoresis) has been shown to increase skin permeability to various low and high molecular weight drugs, including insulin and heparin. However, its therapeutic value is still being evaluated. Some obstacles in transdermal sonophoresis can be overcome by combination with other physical and chemical enhancement techniques. This review describes recent advancements in equipment and devices for phonophoresis, new formulations tried in sonophoresis, synergistic effects with techniques such as chemical enhancers, iontophoresis and electroporation, as well as the growing use of ultrasound in areas such as cancer therapy, cardiovascular disorders, temporary modification of the blood-brain barrier for delivery of imaging and therapeutic agents, hormone replacement therapy, sports medicine, gene therapy and nanotechnology. This review also lists patents pertaining to the formulations and techniques used in sonophoretic drug delivery.
An examination of the psychometric properties and factor structure of the Post‐partum Bonding Questionnaire in a clinical inpatient sample
Authors: Wittkowski Anja , Williams Jennifer , Wieck Angelika
Published: May 2009

Objective. To examine the factor structure and psychometric properties of the Post‐partum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) in a sample of psychiatric inpatients.

Methods. One hundred and thirty‐two women who were admitted to a Mother and Baby Unit for psychiatric inpatient treatment completed the PBQ and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II). The factor structure of the PBQ was examined using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) techniques.

Results. The original four‐factor structure of the PBQ was not replicated by CFA and EFA in this sample. A three‐factor solution was identified as the most stable and clinically meaningful solution. Factors pertaining to impaired bonding, anxiety and irritability, and anxiety about child care responsibilities were identified in the CFA but were not entirely replicated in the EFA. The internal consistencies of the three subscales were also acceptable. PBQ scores were also significantly associated with depression scores.

Conclusion. The findings suggest that the original four factors of the PBQ should be used with caution. Items pertaining to risk of abuse had to be omitted alongside one other item, resulting in a 22‐item solution. Further psychometric evaluation of this scale is recommended.
The Significance of Private Burdens and Lost Benefits for a Fair-Play Analysis of Punishment
Authors: Bayern Shawn J.
Published: May 2009

This article considers the relevance of several kinds of post-offense events for the justice of punishment under a fair-play account of retributivism. If the justice of punishment depends on something like an offender-centered tally of benefits and burdens, it may be difficult to explain why offenders should be punished by a criminal justice system in situations where they have been punished privately or have lost the relevant benefits they may have received from their offenses.
The Moral Limits of Consent as a Defense in the Criminal Law
Authors: Baker Dennis J.
Published: May 2009

In this paper I aim to examine the objective limitations of consent as a defense to criminal harmdoing. This paper starts by briefly outlining the idea of objective morality (critical morality) as the proper basis for criminalization decisions and argues that there are also objective rather than mere conventional reasons (positive morality) for limiting the scope of consent as a defense in the criminal law. The idea of consent is in itself an objective reason for excusing wrongful harmdoing to others. However, it can be overridden by other objective considerations of greater importance. In this paper, I argue that it is only wrongful harmdoing that is criminalizable, as we do not criminalize mere accidents. Furthermore, I argue that a person can as an exercise of her personal autonomy consent to certain harms. But I note that there is a crucial difference between waiving rights that are grounded in an exercise of personal autonomy and waiving rights that violate a person's human dignity: rational autonomy. I conclude that regardless of consent, certain grave harms violate a person's dignity as a human being and therefore are wrongful and criminalizable.
The place of radical surgical approach in the treatment of benign multinodular goitre from the aspect of the anatomical variations of the recurrent laryngeal nerve
Authors: Altorjay Áron , Mucs Mihály , Hamvas Balázs , Füredi Gábor , Botos Balázs , Jaskó Róbert , Bencsik Zsuzsanna , Rüll Miklós , Szilágyi Anna , Csáti Géza
Published: May 2009

Előfordul, hogy még szubtotális pajzsmirigy-reszekciót követően is az indirekt laringoszkópia rekurrens paresist igazol. Szinte minden sebész kidolgozott már valamilyen egyéni technikát a nervus rekurrens védelmében. A szerzők arra kerestek választ, hogy az idegtapintási eljárás kellően hatékony-e a mindennapi, radikalitásra törekvő sebészi gyakorlatban.Anyag és módszer:2001. január 1. és 2008. december 31. között 1228 nervus laryngeus rekurrenst preparáltak ki 702 pajzsmirigyműtét során. Minden betegnél megtalálták és a gégébe lépésig követték azokat. A golyva a betegek 38,6%-ában (271/702) substernalis terjedést mutatott, míg tracheakompressziót és diszlokációt 19,5%-ban (137/702) észleltek. 8,4%-ban recidív pajzsmirigy-elváltozás miatt történt a beavatkozás. Lobectomiára 82,2%-ban került sor (1009/1228), near totális reszekciót 15,5%-ban (191/1228), míg szubtotális reszekciót mindössze 2,3%-ban (28/1228) végeztek.Eredmények:Az idegtapintási eljárás 80,7%-ban segítette a rekurrens megtalálását (991/1228), 8,7%-ban azonban fals pozitívnak bizonyult (107/1228), míg 10,6%-ban (130/1228) egyáltalán nem segített helyének pontos tisztázásában. A módszer a jobb és bal oldal vonatkozásában markáns különbséget mutatott. Míg jobb oldalon mindössze 3,4%-ban észleltek fals pozitivitást, addig bal oldalon ez 14,3%-nak bizonyult. Ugyanakkor viszont, míg bal oldalon csak 4,8%-ban volt sikertelen a tapintási kísérlet, jobb oldalon ez 16,2%-nak adódott. Definitív rekurrens paresist 0,8%-ban észleltek (10/1228), míg tranziens paresissel 1,4%-ban (17/1228) szembesültek. Okkult malignitást 5,6%-ban találtak (39/702).Következtetések:Véleményük szerint napjainkban már nem maradt indikációja a szubtotális reszekciónak még benignus multiplex göbös golyva esetében sem, mivel klinikai és patofiziológiai evidenciák vannak arra vonatkozóan, hogy a maradék állomány a recidíva bölcsője, annak összes potenciális veszélyforrásával együtt. Az idegtapintási módszer hasznos eleme a radikális pajzsmirigyműtéteknek, de csak az orientáció szempontjából, a vizualizálást nem helyettesíti.
Abundance and Distribution of Precociously Mature Male Spring Chinook Salmon of Hatchery and Natural Origin in the Yakima River
Authors: Pearsons Todd N. , Johnson Christopher L. , James Brenda Ben , Temple Gabriel M.
Published: May 2009

Precocious maturation of artificially propagated male Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha has the potential to alter abundance and distribution of males in freshwater and thereby influence ecological and genetic interactions with other fish in the natural environment. Between 1999 and 2007, the Cle Elum Supplementation and Research Facility has produced and released into the upper Yakima River basin of Washington an annual average of 124,573 males that mature precociously. We investigated the abundance and distribution of precociously mature male spring Chinook salmon of hatchery and natural (wild) origin during the spawning season (4–7 months after hatchery release) in the Yakima River. We counted the number of precocious males on the spawning grounds while snorkeling during the peak of spawning and electrofished to determine abundance and distribution of precocious males away from redds. We also collected Chinook salmon to determine percent precocity and size and age distributions. The number of precocious hatchery males on redds was less than 0.05% of the total number of fish released, and they were significantly less abundant on redds than precocious wild males. Between 1999 and 2007, the mean annual abundance of precocious age-1 hatchery males observed on the spawning grounds was 22 fish (range, 0–78). Precocious hatchery and wild males were both found throughout the spawning range during the spawning season, but significant differences in distribution between origins were detected. Precocious hatchery males were proportionately more abundant in the most downstream sampling reach and less abundant in a tributary with no hatchery facilities. In addition, most precocious hatchery males were found downstream of spawning areas during the spawning season. It appears that many precocious hatchery males migrate downstream from release and fail to migrate back to the spawning grounds, or they die within the Yakima River before spawning. Thus, precocious male Chinook salmon resulting from hatchery production in the Yakima River do not contribute favorably to harvest and may pose ecological risks to other taxa, but most of these fish have a low probability of contributing genes to future generations.
Genetic variants influencing effectiveness of weight loss strategies
Authors: Deram Sophie , Villares Sandra M. F.
Published: May 2009

Body weight excess has an increasingly high prevalence in the world. Obesity is a complex disease of multifactorial origin with a polygenic condition affected by environmental factors. Weight loss is a primary strategy to treat obesity and its morbidities. Weight changes through life depend on the interaction of environmental, behavioral and genetic factors. Interindividual variation of weight loss in response to different types of interventions (behavioral, caloric restriction, exercise, drug or surgery) has been observed. In this article, currently available data on the role of candidate gene polymorphisms in weight loss are reviewed. Even though control of weight loss by genotype was described in twin and family studies, it is premature to recommend use of genotyping in the design of therapeutic diets or drug treatment. Future studies will have to be large in order to assess the effects of multiple polymorphisms, and will have to control factors other than diet.
Infeccions as the etiology for obesity
Authors: Suplicy Henrique de Lacerda , Bornschein Andressa
Published: May 2009

The role of infection on obesity development has been questioned since the early 1980's. Several studies on animals have shown that fisiopathologic mechanisms through which infections can produce obesity do exist. At least eight types of obesity-inducing viruses have been identified in animals, especially poultry and mice. Studies on humans are far less convincing; however, two adenoviruses, Ad-36 and SMAM-1, have shown adipogenic properties. In vitro studies with 3T3-L1 cells stated the activation of the enzymatic pathway that leads to fatty tissue accumulation; in vivo studies have also detected higher levels of antibodies against such viruses on obese subjects. Although most known infections nowadays cause obesity through central nervous system lesions, the Ad-36 adenovirus infection affects fatty tissue directly, raising doubts regarding central role component in this case.
Impact of adiposity on immunological parameters
Authors: Moulin Cristiane Martins , Marguti Ivo , Peron Jean Pierre S. , Rizzo Luiz Vicente , Halpern Alfredo
Published: May 2009

Studies evaluating immune function in obese humans and experimental animals indicate that the excess adiposity is associated with impaired in immune responses. Obesity is related to a higher rate of infections and to some types of cancer. Nutritional, metabolic and endocrine factors are implicated in the immunological changes. The adipose tissue directly produces substances with various functions related to immune system. Furthermore, some investigations suggest that certain types of weight reduction strategies can alter the immune function. Nevertheless, long-term studies should be carried out to address whether these changes positively affects the ability of these obese individuals to control infections and tumor development.
Adiposity in childhood cancer survivors: insights into obesity physiopathology
Authors: Siviero-Miachon Adriana Aparecida , Spinola-Castro Angela Maria , Guerra-Junior Gil
Published: May 2009

As childhood cancer treatment has become more effective, survival rates have improved, and a number of complications have been described while many of these patients reach adulthood. Obesity is a well-recognized late effect, and its metabolic effects may lead to cardiovascular disease. Currently, studies concerning overweight have focused on acute lymphocytic leukemia and brain tumors, since they are at risk for hypothalamic-pituitary axis damage secondary to cancer therapies (cranial irradiation, chemotherapy, and brain surgery) or to primary tumor location. Obesity and cancer have metabolic syndrome features in common. Thus, it remains controversial if overweight is a cause or consequence of cancer, and to date additional mechanisms involving adipose tissue and hypothalamic derangements have been considered, comprising premature adiposity rebound, hyperinsulinemia, leptin regulation, and the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ. Overall, further research is still necessary to better understand the relationship between adipogenesis and hypothalamic control deregulation following cancer therapy.
Modelo experimental de esteatohepatite não-alcoólica com dieta deficiente em metionina e colina
Authors: Zamin Jr. Idilio , Mattos Angelo Alves de , Mattos Ângelo Zambam de , Migon Eduardo , Soares Ernesto , Perry Marcos Luiz Santos
Published: May 2009

CONTEXTO: Ainda existem vários aspectos desconhecidos a respeito da esteatohepatite não-alcoólica, principalmente em relação à fisiopatologia e ao seu tratamento medicamentoso. Dessa forma, os modelos experimentais são importante para o melhor entendimento dessa doença, bem como para a avaliação do efeito das drogas. OBJETIVO: Desenvolver um modelo experimental de esteatohepatite não-alcoólica a partir do uso de dieta deficiente em metionina e colina. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 50 ratos machos da linhagem Wistar. A dieta deficiente em metionina e colina foi processada de forma artesanal. Um grupo de 40 animais recebeu a dieta durante 90 dias e utilizou-se um grupo controle com 10 ratos que recebeu ração padronizada pelo mesmo período. Após, os animais foram mortos por decapitação e foi realizada laparotomia com hepatectomia total e preparo do material para análise macroscópica e histológica. O nível de significância foi a = 0,05. RESULTADOS: Os ratos que receberam a dieta apresentaram perda significativa de peso, com achados de desnutrição e todos mostraram, pelo menos, algum grau de esteatose macrovesicular. O diagnóstico de esteatohepatite não-alcoólica foi realizado em 27 (70%) dos 39 ratos que receberam a dieta. Nenhum dos 10 ratos que recebeu ração apresentou alterações histológicas. CONCLUSÃO:A dieta com restrição de metionina e colina desenvolvida apresenta índices elevados de indução de esteatose e esteatohepatite em modelo animal com baixo custo.
Acúmulo de macronutrientes pela bananeira cv. prata em diferentes estádios de desenvolvimento
Authors: Gomes J.A. , Haag H.P. , Nóbrega A.C.
Published: May 2009

Visando estabelecer a marcha de absorção, quantidade exportada e reciclada de nitrogênio, fósforo, potássio e cálcio na bananeira cultivar Prata, instalou-se um ensaio no Estado do Espírito Santo, em janeiro de 1980, em terreno com declividade média de 40% e solo cambissólico distrófico. Sorteou-se três plantas matrizes do plantio até 465 dias após (colheita),sendo bimensal até 300 dias e mensal até o final, totalizando doze estádios de desenvolvimento, e três plantas rebento, mensalmente, da emissão até 300 dias após, atingindo nove estádios. Cada bananeira foi dividida em folha, pecíolo, pseudocaule, rizoma, engaço, botão floral e fruto para se analisar os macronutrientes. A partir dos dados coletados ajustou-se um programa de regressão e obteve-se as curvas de absorção de macronutrientes, cujos resultados permitiram concluir que, as plantas matriz e rebento: necessitam de expressivas quantidades de macronutrientes para desenvolver e produzir; apresentam uma absorção de macronutrientes que acompanha a matéria seca acumulada pelos órgãos, exceto para o potássio no período; absorvem mais de setenta e cinco por cento de nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio após o estádio de 180 dias e acima de setenta por cento do cálcio e magnésio, a partir de 240 e 120 dias; podem repor ao solo grande parte dos macronutrientes absorvidos; apresentam uma razão de absorção de macronutrientes de 20 K:12 N:10 Mg: 9 Ca: 1 P e de 26,5:8 N:4,5 Mg: 4,5 Ca: 1 P. Conclui-se ainda que: deve-se considerar a quantidade de macronutrientes exportados com a colheita e consumo dos frutos, principalmente nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio, em um programa de adubação; a planta rebento acumula mais macronutrientes do que a planta matriz.
Nutrição mineral de leguminosas tropicais: VIII. Sintomas de desnutrição de macronutrientes e de boro em Sesbania sp.
Authors: Haag H.P. , Carmello Q.A.de C.
Published: May 2009

Plantas de Sesbania, uma leguminosa tropical pouco conhecida no Brasil mas de largo emprego no oriente, foram postas a crescer em solução nutritiva completa e nos demais tratamentos omitindo-se N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S e B por vez. Uma vez evidenciados os sintomas as plantas foram colhidas e analisadas para os elementos em questão. É difícil a identificação dos sintomas de desnutrição. A análise química evidencia os níveis de desnutrição. Folhas sadias e com deficiência apresentam os seguintes níveis: N% 3,12 - 1,70; P% 0,25-0,03; K% 2,10-0,15; Ca% 1,32 - 0,56; Mg% 0,47 - 0,09; B ppm 77-23. Em folhas de plantas sadias o nível de enxofre foi de 0,16%.
Avaliação agronômica do suporte sólido capilar para fertilizantes fluídos: II. Aplicação de micronutrientes
Authors: Sparovek G. , Neptune A.M.L.
Published: May 2009

A aplicação de micronutrientes no solo de maneira homogênea e com o mínimo de contato com as partículas sólidas do solo, pode aumentar sua eficiência agronômica. Armazenar uma solução de fertilizantes num meio sólido poroso, que é utilizado como veículo na aplicação, alia grande uniformidade e pouco contato com o solo. Como meio poroso utilizou-se o Suporte Sólido Capilar para Fertilizantes Fluídos (SC), que consiste de um cilindro de gesso (CaSO4 • 2H(2)0) compactado, desenvolvido em caráter experimental pela ULTRAFÉRTIL. O SC mostrou-se eficiente no fornecimento de micronutrientes via solo, proporcionando produções iguais ou superiores, em relação à aplicação direta no solo.
Propriedades da transcarbamilase de ornitina parcialmente purificada de folhas de feijoeiro (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Authors: Gutierrez L.E. , Crocomo O.J.
Published: May 2009

Transcarbamilase de ornitina (E.C. 2.1.3.3) extraída de folhas de feijoeiro (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. carioca) com 31 dias de maturidade foi parcialmente purificada com sulfato de amônio em pH 7,2 e 7,8. A enzima apresentou as seguintes propriedades: pH ótimo 7,8, temperatura ótima 40°C, Constante de Michaelis para ornitina de 3,18mM e para carbamil-fosfato de 3,93mM.
Nutrição mineral de seringueira: XI. Quantidade de alumínio no substrato afetando a concentração e o acúmulo de nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio em seringueira (Hevea sp.)
Authors: Bueno N. , Haag H.P. , Pereira J.P. , Viégas I.J.M.
Published: May 2009

Com o propósito de comparar os efeitos de doses crescentes de alumínio sobre a composição química de nitrogênio, fósforo e potássio, conduziu-se um experimento usando-se separadamente solução nutritiva de Boole-Jones e soluções de doses de alumínio que se constituíram de 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25ppm de alumínio, em que as plantas passaram vinte e quatro horas na solução nutritiva (sem alumínio) e vinte e quatro horas nas soluções de alumínio. As plantas foram coletadas noventa dias após e separadas em raíz, caule, folha dos verticilos inferiores e folhas do último verticilo. Determinou-se a concentração de N, P e K pelos métodos usuais de laboratório. Os autores concluíram: A seringueira é planta tolerante à presença de concentrações de alumínio no substrato inferior a 15ppm. Níveis superiores provocam distúrbios nutricionais na planta.