bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The utopias of political consumerism: The search of alternatives to mass consumption
Authors: Bossy Sophie
Published: March 2014

This article focuses on political consumerism understood as a social movement in which a network of individual and collective actors criticize and try to differentiate themselves from traditional consumerism by politicizing the act of buying in order to search and promote other types of consumption. In this respect, they adopt a series of actions that have a collective goal but that can be either individual or collective (boycott, buycott). This article is based on a comparison of four cases in France and in the United Kingdom: two convivia of Slow Food and two more radical groups – de-growth promoters and people living in an eco-village. The angle used in this research is utopia understood both as a discourse and a set of practices. The utopian discourse includes, first, a rejection of the existing society, and, second, if not a clear conception of what another world might look like, at least the idea that another society is possible and desirable. The utopian practices need to be an attempt to create here and now at least some of the features of this utopian discourse in the hope of a spread in the rest of society. Viewing political consumerism through the lenses of utopia can help understand how actors view consumption and how they relate their acts of (non-)consuming to ideals and dreams of a better world. Utopia helps show that the particular choices of consumption, of lifestyle or the choices collectively made, are only really understandable if one looks at the logics behind them and their articulation to the ideals and hopes actors have. It can also help us see how actors articulate the individual and collective level of action since it shows that for the actors, their everyday choices of living are also done in order to achieve some necessary changes within society.
Improvements on the normal mode decomposition method used in harbor resonance
Authors: Gao Junliang , Ma Xiaozhou , Dong Guohai , Wang Gang , Ma Yuxiang
Published: March 2014

In the article by Sobey (Rodney J. Sobey, 2006. Normal mode decomposition for identification of storm tide and tsunami hazard. Coastal Engineering 53, 289–301), the author proposed a normal mode decomposition method to calculate the eigenfrequencies, the eigenmodes and the response amplitudes of different resonant modes in natural harbors that are subjected to storm tides and tsunamis. However, the numerical method to address the no-flow boundary condition in that article is imprecise, which would lead to inexact eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes. In this article, the mirror-image method was proposed to improve this handling process. The accuracy of the improved normal mode decomposition method was verified using three verification tests. With a set of numerical experiments, it was determined that during the process of decomposing the response amplitudes of different resonant modes, the numerical fitting error between the simulated free surfaces and the corresponding fitted ones gradually increases with the wave nonlinearity inside the harbor. This article sought to identify the critical wave condition under which the normal mode decomposition method can accurately decompose the response amplitudes of different modes.
Gender, Competitiveness, and Physical Characteristics
Authors: Krumer Alex , Rosenboim Mosi , Shapir Offer Moshe
Published: March 2014

Gender differences in tennis have sparked a great deal of heated debate. Using data from the 24 top men’s and 23 top women’s singles tournaments in 2010, we find a gender difference in the competitiveness (tightness) with regard to the final score of tennis sets. However, when using two physical variables (height and body mass index) that have not been investigated in this context before and controlling for the physical characteristics of the players, this gender difference completely disappears. Moreover, this result remains robust in propensity score analysis. To narrow this disparity between the number of games in men’s and women’s sets, it might be worthwhile for tennis authorities to consider making some changes in court conditions on a gender basis.
Shear modeling of polypropylene-fiber-reinforced soil composite using electrical conductivity contour technique
Authors: Hejazi Sayyed Mahdi , Baghulizadeh Ali Reza , Nateghi Masoud , Mardani Mohammad
Published: March 2014

Randomly distributed fiber-reinforced soils have recently attracted increasing attention in geotechnical engineering for the second time. On the basis of predictive models that have been presented till now, shear strength of fiber-reinforced soil increases with increase in fiber aspect ratio, fiber content, fiber modulus, and soil fiber surface friction. The main aim of this paper is therefore shear modeling of polypropylene-fiber-reinforced soil composite by considering the fiber orientation parameter. Force equilibrium method proposed by Waldron was extended to predict shear behavior of randomly distributed fiber–soil composite. The fiber orientation factor was derived by using electrical conductivity contours as a novel technique. In electrical conductivity contour method, electrical conductivity is measured between different points through the soil composite. After that a visual matrix is drawn that shows the uniformity of fiber distribution within the soil matrix. The experimental shear tests revealed that the shear strength of 19-mm polypropylene-reinforced soil composite is less than that of 6 - and 12-mm reinforced samples. On the other hand, electrical conductivity contour method showed that polypropylene fibers of 19-mm length present the worst fiber distribution compared to 6-mm and 12-mm fibers. Therefore, the theoretical model was modified with an orientation factor.
Mixed Methods Research Strategies With Deaf People
Authors: Wilson Amy T. , Winiarczyk Rowena E.
Published: March 2014

Deaf people, members of a complex global language minority, have been excluded from positions of power in the field of humanitarian aid and development assistance, as well as from playing a significant role in the conduct of research that affects their lives. Deaf people rarely lead or participate as researchers in studies about their own communities or about the assistance they receive. Transformative mixed methods research strategies focus on the development of culturally respectful relationships to enhance collaboration between members of dominant and marginalized communities in order to improve the accuracy and usefulness of the findings. In this article, the application of transformative mixed methods in the deaf community provides examples of how research reveals complex realities and how researchers employ mixed methods strategies to appropriately engage members of marginalized communities in the context of development assistance to support human rights.
Re-repair of ruptured primary flexor tendon repairs in Zones I and II of the fingers in children
Authors: Al-Qattan M. M.
Published: March 2014

The aetiology, management, and results of acute rupture of primary flexor tendon repairs in Zones I and II of the fingers in children have not been previously investigated. The author reports on a personal series of 10 children treated over a period of 13 years. The aetiology is different when compared with adults: children less than 5 years of age usually rupture their primary repairs whilst the hand is completely immobilized in a cast; whereas teenagers usually rupture their tendons when falling down while playing. In the current series, direct re-repair was performed without lengthening at the musculo-tendinous junction, and no free tendon grafts were used. The results were worse than other paediatric series of primary flexor tendon repairs. Using the Strickland-Glogovac criteria, there was only one excellent outcome, the remaining nine being either a good ( n = 5) or fair ( n = 4) outcome.
Redefinition of the human mast cell transcriptome by deep-CAGE sequencing
Authors: Motakis Efthymios , Guhl Sven , Ishizu Yuri , Itoh Masayoshi , Kawaji Hideya , de Hoon Michiel , Lassmann Timo , Carninci Piero , Hayashizaki Yoshihide , Zuberbier Torsten , Forrest Alistair R. R. , Babina Magda
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Generated a reference transcriptome for ex vivo, cultured, and stimulated mast cells, contrasted against a broad collection of primary cells. Identified BMPs as function-modulating factors for mast cells.
Genome-wide association studies for hematological traits in Chinese Sutai pigs
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhang Zhiyan , Yan Xueming , Chen Hao , Zhang Wanchang , Hong Yuan , Huang Lusheng
Published: March 2014

Background

It has been shown that hematological traits are strongly associated with the metabolism and the immune system in domestic pig. However, little is known about the genetic architecture of hematological traits. To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) controlling hematological traits, we performed single marker Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and haplotype analysis for 15 hematological traits in 495 Chinese Sutai pigs.

Results

We identified 161 significant SNPs including 44 genome-wide significant SNPs associated with 11 hematological traits by single marker GWAS. Most of them were located on SSC2. Meanwhile, we detected 499 significant SNPs containing 154 genome-wide significant SNPs associated with 9 hematological traits by haplotype analysis. Most of the identified loci were located on SSC7 and SSC9.

Conclusions

We detected 4 SNPs with pleiotropic effects on SSC2 by single marker GWAS and (or) on SSC7 by haplotype analysis. Furthermore, through checking the gene functional annotations, positions and their expression variation, we finally selected 7 genes as potential candidates. Specially, we found that three genes (TRIM58, TRIM26andTRIM21) of them originated from the same gene family and executed similar function of innate and adaptive immune. The findings will contribute to dissection the immune gene network, further identification of causative mutations underlying the identified QTLs and providing insights into the molecular basis of hematological trait in domestic pig.
High throughput sequencing of two celery varieties small RNAs identifies microRNAs involved in temperature stress response
Authors: Li Meng-Yao , Wang Feng , Xu Zhi-Sheng , Jiang Qian , Ma Jing , Tan Guo-Fei , Xiong Ai-Sheng
Published: March 2014

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs of 20 to 24 nucleotides that regulate gene expression and responses to biotic and abiotic stress. Till now, no reports have previously been published concerning miRNAs in celery.

Results

Two small RNAs libraries were constructed from two celery varieties, ‘Jinnan Shiqin’ and ‘Ventura’, and characterized by deep sequencing. A total of 431 (418 known and 13 novel) and 346 (341 known and five novel) miRNAs were identified in celery varieties ‘Jinnan Shiqin’ and ‘Ventura’, respectively. Potential miRNA-target genes were predicted and annotated by screening diverse protein databases, including Gene Ontology, Cluster of Orthologous Groups and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Significant differential expression between the two varieties was seen for 221 miRNAs. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the abundance of six miRNAs under cold and heat stress conditions. The results showed that miRNAs may have important functions in controlling temperature stress in celery.

Conclusion

A large number of miRNAs were identified in celery, and their target genes, functional annotations, and gene expression patterns have been explored.

These findings provide the first information on celery miRNAs and enhance understanding of celery miRNA regulatory mechanisms under extreme temperature stress.
The IFITM5 mutation c.-14C > T results in an elongated transcript expressed in human bone; and causes varying phenotypic severity of osteogenesis imperfecta type V
Authors: Lazarus Syndia , McInerney-Leo Aideen M , McKenzie Fiona A , Baynam Gareth , Broley Stephanie , Cavan Barbra V , Munns Craig F , Pruijs Johannes Egbertus Hans , Sillence David , Terhal Paulien A , Pryce Karena , Brown Matthew A , Zankl Andreas , Thomas Gethin , Duncan Emma L
Published: March 2014

Background

The genetic mutation resulting in osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) type V was recently characterised as a single point mutation (c.-14C > T) in the 5’ untranslated region (UTR) of IFITM5, a gene encoding a transmembrane protein with expression restricted to skeletal tissue. This mutation creates an alternative start codon and has been shown in a eukaryotic cell line to result in a longer variant of IFITM5, but its expression has not previously been demonstrated in bone from a patient with OI type V.

Methods

Sanger sequencing of the IFITM5 5’ UTR was performed in our cohort of subjects with a clinical diagnosis of OI type V. Clinical data was collated from referring clinicians. RNA was extracted from a bone sample from one patient and Sanger sequenced to determine expression of wild-type and mutant IFITM5.

Results

All nine subjects with OI type V were heterozygous for the c.-14C > T IFITM5 mutation. Clinically, there was heterogeneity in phenotype, particularly in the manifestation of bone fragility amongst subjects. Both wild-type and mutant IFITM5 mRNA transcripts were present in bone.

Conclusions

The c.-14C > T IFITM5 mutation does not result in an RNA-null allele but is expressed in bone. Individuals with identical mutations in IFITM5 have highly variable phenotypic expression, even within the same family.
Quantum chemical assessment of benzimidazole derivatives as corrosion inhibitors
Authors: Obayes Hasan R , Alwan Ghadah H , Alobaidy Abdul Hameed MJ , Al-Amiery Ahmed A , Kadhum Abdul Amir H , Mohamad Abu Bakar
Published: March 2014

Background

The majority of well-known inhibitors are organic compounds containing multiple bonds and heteroatoms, such as O, N or S, which allow adsorption onto the metal surface. These compounds can adsorb onto the metal surface and block active surface sites, reducing the rate of corrosion.

Results

A comparative theoretical study of three benzimidazole isomers, benzimidazole (BI), 2-methylbenzimidazole (2-CH3-BI), and 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (2-SH-BI), as corrosion inhibitors was performed using density functional theory (DFT) with the B3LYP functional basis set.

Conclusions

Nitro and amino groups were selected for investigation as substituents of the three corrosion inhibitors. Nitration of the corrosion inhibitor molecules led to a decrease in inhibition efficiency, while reduction of the nitro group led to an increase in inhibition efficiency. These aminobenzimidazole isomers represent a significant improvement in the inhibition efficiency of corrosion inhibitor molecules.
Photothermogenic Properties of Different-Sized Gold Nanoparticles for Application to Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Kojima Chie , Oeda Naoya , Ito Syoji , Miyasaka Hiroshi , Iida Takuya
Published: March 2014

Gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) have applications to photothermal therapy because of their photothermogenic properties. The photoresponsiveness of Au NPs is largely affected by their size. The photothermogenic properties of different-sized Au NPs were investigated. The Au NPs with approximately 50 nm diameter exhibited the most efficient photothermogenic activity, which was apparent from their in situ photocytotoxicity against HeLa cells.
Synthesis, Structure, and Magnetic Property of a New Mononuclear Iron(II) Spin Crossover Complex with a Tripodal Ligand Containing Three 1,2,3-Triazole Groups
Authors: Hagiwara Hiroaki , Minoura Ryo , Okada Shohei , Sunatsuki Yukinari
Published: March 2014

A novel mononuclear iron(II) complex of a 1,2,3-triazole-containing ligand, [FeIILPh](NTf2)2 [LPh: tris(2-{[(1-phenyl-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methylidene]amino}ethyl)amine and NTf2: bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide], was synthesized. The complex shows a gradual one-step spin crossover at around room temperature with T1/2 = 280 K. The complex cations, [FeIILPh]2+, are linked via CH/π and π–π interactions forming a two-dimensional layer. The cationic layers are linked together by NTf2− ions via CH···X (X = N, O, and F) hydrogen-bonding interactions to form an extended three-dimensional structure.
Photoinduced Multiple Spectral Changes of Single Plasmonic Gold Nanospheres by the Aid of Coordination
Authors: Tanabe Ichiro , Tatsuma Tetsu
Published: March 2014

One or both of two localized surface plasmon modes (full-surface mode and interface mode) of a commercially available single Au nanosphere on TiO2 are excited, and the corresponding spectral changes are induced in the presence of thiocyanate. Similar spectral changes can be simulated by assuming site-selective oxidation of the Au nanosphere by plasmon-induced charge separation (PICS).
Amino Acid-assisted One-dimensional Assembly of Semiconducting Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Aqueous Alcohol Media
Authors: Wang Junzheng , Yabe Hiroki , Shimojima Atsushi , Sekiguchi Takashi , Sugawara-Narutaki Ayae , Okubo Tatsuya
Published: March 2014

A facile approach to prepare the nanochains of semiconducting metal oxide (SnO2, CeO2, and TiO2) nanoparticles is presented. The addition of amino acid and alcohol to the corresponding sols adjusts the interparticle interactions, leading to their one-dimensional assembly.
Fertility and Wars: The Case of World War I in France
Authors: Vandenbroucke Guillaume
Published: March 2014

During World War I, the birth rate in France fell by 50 percent. Why? I build a model of fertility choices where the war implies a positive probability that a wife remains alone, a partially-compensated loss of a husband's income, and a temporary decline in productivity followed by faster growth. I calibrate the model's key parameters using pre-war data. I find that it accounts for 91 percent of the decline of the birth rate. The main determinant of this result is the loss of expected income associated with the risk that a wife remains alone. (JEL D74, J13, J24, N33, N34, N44)
How Frequent Are Small Price Changes?
Authors: Eichenbaum Martin , Jaimovich Nir , Rebelo Sergio , Smith Josephine
Published: March 2014

Recent empirical work suggests that small price changes are relatively common. This evidence has been used to criticize classic menu-cost models. In this paper, we use scanner data from a national supermarket chain and micro data from the Consumer Price Index to reassess the importance of small price changes. We argue that the vast majority of these changes are due to measurement error. We conclude that the evidence on the prevalence of small price changes is much too weak to be used as a litmus test of nominal rigidity models. (JEL C82, E31, L11, L81)
Missing Import Price Changes and Low Exchange Rate Pass-Through
Authors: Gagnon Etienne , Mandel Benjamin R. , Vigfusson Robert J.
Published: March 2014

A large body of empirical work has found that exchange rate movements have only modest effects on US inflation. However, exchange rate pass-through may be underestimated because some price changes are missed when constructing price indexes. We investigate downward biases that arise when items exit or enter the US import price index. Using Bureau of Labor Statistics microdata, we find that, although potentially large in theory, the empirical biases are modest over typical forecast horizons. As such, the empirical evidence continues to support the conclusion that pass-through to US import prices is low. (JEL C43, E31, E52, F31)
A tRNA body with high affinity for EF-Tu hastens ribosomal incorporation of unnatural amino acids
Authors: Ieong Ka-Weng , Pavlov Michael Y. , Kwiatkowski Marek , Ehrenberg Måns , Forster Anthony C.
Published: March 2014

There is evidence that tRNA bodies have evolved to reduce differences between aminoacyl-tRNAs in their affinity to EF-Tu. Here, we study the kinetics of incorporation of L-amino acids (AAs) Phe, Ala allyl-glycine (aG), methyl-serine (mS), and biotinyl-lysine (bK) using a tRNAAla-based body (tRNAAlaB) with a high affinity for EF-Tu. Results are compared with previous data on the kinetics of incorporation of the same AAs using a tRNAPheB body with a comparatively low affinity for EF-Tu. All incorporations exhibited fast and slow phases, reflecting the equilibrium fraction of AA-tRNA in active ternary complex with EF-Tu:GTP before the incorporation reaction. Increasing the concentration of EF-Tu increased the amplitude of the fast phase and left its rate unaltered. This allowed estimation of the affinity of each AA-tRNA to EF-Tu:GTP during translation, showing about a 10-fold higher EF-Tu affinity for AA-tRNAs formed from the tRNAAlaB body than from the tRNAPheB body. At ∼1 µM EF-Tu, tRNAAlaB conferred considerably faster incorporation kinetics than tRNAPheB, especially in the case of the bulky bK. In contrast, the swap to the tRNAAlaB body did not increase the fast phase fraction of N-methyl-Phe incorporation, suggesting that the slow incorporation of N-methyl-Phe had a different cause than low EF-Tu:GTP affinity. The total time for AA-tRNA release from EF-Tu:GDP, accommodation, and peptidyl transfer on the ribosome was similar for the tRNAAlaB and tRNAPheB bodies. We conclude that a tRNA body with high EF-Tu affinity can greatly improve incorporation of unnatural AAs in a potentially generalizable manner.
Rapid identification of mRNA processing defects with a novel single-cell yeast reporter
Authors: Sorenson Matthew R. , Stevens Scott W.
Published: March 2014

It has become increasingly evident that gene expression processes in eukaryotes involve communication and coordination between many complex, independent macromolecular machines. To query these processes and to explore the potential relationships between them in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we designed a versatile reporter using multicolor high-throughput flow cytometry. Due to its design, this single reporter exhibits a distinctive signature for many defects in gene expression including transcription, histone modification, pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA export, nonsense-mediated decay, and mRNA degradation. Analysis of the reporter in 4967 nonessential yeast genes revealed striking phenotypic overlaps between chromatin remodeling, histone modification, and pre-mRNA splicing. Additionally, we developed a copper-inducible reporter, with which we demonstrate that 5-fluorouracil mimics the mRNA decay phenotype of cells lacking the 3′–5′ exonuclease Rrp6p. Our reporter is capable of performing high-throughput, rapid, and large-scale screens to identify and characterize genetic and chemical perturbations of the major eukaryotic gene expression processes.
Four measures of treatment compliance among patients recovering from psychotic episodes – a comparative study
Authors: Wciórka Jacek , Friemann Karolina
Published: March 2014

Cel

Realizowanie zaleceń lekarskich wpływa na wyniki leczenia zaburzeń psychicznych. Celem pracy było porównanie przydatności czterech miar oceny przestrzegania zaleceń.

Metoda

Zbadano 103 osoby po przebytym kryzysie psychotycznym (schizofrenia, zaburzenia schizoafektywne). Porównywano przestrzeganie zaleceń psychofarmakoterapeutycznych oceniane za pomocą prostych skal: 5-przedziałowej POP (ocena pacjenta), 7-przedziałowej POK (ocena klinicysty) oraz 2 popularnych, złożonych kwestionariuszy: „Inwentarza postawy wobec leku” (DAI-10) i „Skali oceny wypełniania zaleceń lekowych” (MARS). Krzywej ROC użyto do analizy czułości i swoistości przewidywania prostych ocen klinicysty lub pacjenta za pomocą wyników DAI-10 i MARS.

Wyniki

Odsetek pacjentów realizujących zalecenia wahał się od 42,8% do 62% (20,4-26,2% przy zaostrzonych kryteriach). W uproszczeniu można uznać, że w okresie miesiąca poprzedzającego hospitalizację około połowa badanych respektowała zalecenia. POK wykazywało silniejszą korelację (0,50) z POP (POP) niż z ocenami wg DAI-10 (0,30) czy MARS (0,36). POP słabo korelowała z oceną wg DAI-10 (0,23) i MARS (0,32). Korelacja między MARS a DAI-10 była wysoka (0,67) a ich rzetelność (współczynnik α Cronbacha ) umiarkowanie przekraczała poziom uważany za satysfakcjonujący (DAI-10: α=0,76) lub zbliżała się do niego (MARS: α=0,61). Pole pod krzywą (AUC) dla DAI i dla MARS wskazuje na ich porównywalną i nieprzypadkową (p<0,005) wartość diagnostyczną. Wyniki DAI i MARS przekraczające 7,5 punkta wykazują optymalna relację czułości i swoistości w przewidywania oceny klinicysty i pacjenta.

Wnioski

Około połowa badanych (co czwarty z nich w przypadku mocniejszych wymagań) przestrzegała zaleceń dotyczących przyjmowania leków. Korelacja pomiędzy kwestionariuszowymi ocenami respektowania zaleceń jest stosunkowo wysoka, pozostałe dwa użyte narzędzia korelują słabiej. DAI-10 i MARS wykazują umiarkowaną rzetelność, czułość i swoistość.
How to Hear a Film
Authors: Wachtel Edward
Published: March 2014

This article explores the expressiveness, the biases and the limitations of the visual and aural modalities and examines the ways sound and visual images may be joined to create meanings in the cinema. The focus is on meanings that could not be made or carried by the visual image alone. The piece provides an interpretive approach to cinema that is based in the filmmakers’ intentions and offers some criteria for judging the aesthetic value and success of the sound track. The author presents brief analyses of American commercial films to serve as examples of skillful and original sound–image relationships.
La bancada femenina en Uruguay: un «actor crítico» para la representación sustantiva de las mujeres en el parlamento
Authors: Johnson Niki
Published: March 2014

En el marco de los debates contemporáneos sobre la representación política de las mujeres, este artículo se propone a estudiar la bancada femenina en el Parlamento uruguayo en el período 2000-2010 para identificar y analizar a partir de este caso arquetípico en la región las posibilidades y desafíos que plantean las iniciativas de articulación multipartidaria para lograr la representación sustantiva de las mujeres. El análisis explora cómo las distintas dimensiones de la representación –descriptiva, sustantiva y simbólica– se articulan en la composición, funcionamiento, actuación y discurso de este actor colectivo, y evalúa cómo inciden tanto la agencia de diferentes actores/as, como factores contextuales institucionales y coyunturales en la representación sustantiva de las mujeres en el caso uruguayo.
Los efectos de las reglas electorales sobre el éxito de las mujeres en las elecciones presidenciales en América Latina
Authors: Kouba Karel , Poskocilová Petra
Published: March 2014

En la última década, varias mujeres han sido candidatas exitosas en las elecciones presidenciales latinoamericanas. Pero este logro histórico ha estado limitado a pocos países de la región. ¿Cuáles son las causas principales de que en unos países las mujeres sean candidatas exitosas y en otros países no? Este artículo desarrolla argumentos basados en la teoría institucionalista y propone que es necesario buscar las explicaciones en las características institucionales de los países. Los elementos que incrementan la permisividad de los sistemas electorales para la elección de las mujeres son la fórmula electoral para la elección presidencial, las reglas constitucionales que prohíben la elección de los parientes de los expresidentes, la presencia de cuotas legislativas para la elección de mujeres y la prohibición de la reelección presidencial inmediata. El efecto de la permisividad institucional no es automático sino que está condicionado al nivel de desarrollo humano de la sociedad. Metodológicamente, se estima un modelo de regresión con el fin de explicar el porcentaje de votos que obtuvieron las mujeres en las últimas tres elecciones presidenciales en 19 países latinoamericanos. Sin embargo, la validez del modelo se confirma posteriormente con la identificación de casos anómalos.
Ventaja de género en los distritos uninominales: las elecciones en México de 2012
Authors: Penadés De La Cruz Alberto , Sánchez Miranda Silvia Dariela
Published: March 2014

Los datos de las elecciones de México en 2012 demuestran que, en competición en distritos uninominales, los hombres obtienen ventaja electoral sobre las mujeres. Esto no obedece ni a la distinta experiencia ni al sesgo en los partidos en la selección de candidatas, por lo que este trabajo concluye que se trata de un sesgo de los votantes. También se constata la existencia de sesgo de género dentro de cada partido en el emplazamiento de candidatas en distritos más o menos prometedores y se descarta que pueda ser un cálculo racional para evitar los efectos del sesgo de los votantes. La ventaja de género se debilita mucho cuando las candidatas tienen experiencia legislativa, lo que ofrece una razón para utilizar cuotas de género.
Gitelman syndrome during pregnancy – from diagnosis to treatment: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Shinar Shiri , Gal-Oz Amir , Weinstein Talia , Levin Ishai , Maslovitz Sharon
Published: March 2014

Objective: Gitelman syndrome (GS) is a rare renal disease, originating from a defect in the Na-Cl co-transporter in the distal tubule, which causes hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalciuria, metabolic alkalosis and low-normal blood pressure. Mild hypokalemia of pregnancy is physiological. Fatigue, nausea, vomiting, polyuria and low blood pressures are also common complaints associated with a normal pregnancy. Therefore, the diagnosis of an organic renal disorder, i.e., GS, may go undetected, until severe hypokalemia and possible life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias develop. Maternal consequences are obvious. The possibility of fetal pathology remains unclear.

Study design: In this study, we describe nine pregnancies in seven women with a clinical diagnosis of GS. Nearly all women were diagnosed initially during pregnancy. We describe their clinical presentation, serum and urine electrolyte levels during pregnancy and immediately post-partum, their treatment and pregnancy outcome.

Results: Fetal pregnancy outcomes were mostly favorable. While it is likely that women suffering from GS do not require special fetal surveillance, they are at high risk for electrolyte depletion and thus aggravation of GS during pregnancy.

Conclusion: Clinical suspicion of GS should arise in all women presenting with symptomatic hypokalemia. Once the diagnosis is made, adequate supplementation and routine maternal monitoring should ensue.
Extraordinary weight gain: initial finding in a patient with peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Endo Daisuke , Morikawa Mamoru , Sakakibara Mamoru , Sugita Tsubasa , Yamada Takahiro , Minakami Hisanori
Published: March 2014

Extraordinary weight gain may be an initial finding in some patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM). This case highlights the need for studies of the relationship between degrees of antenatal weight gain and risk of PPCM. A 33-year-old woman exhibited weight gain of 1.0 kg/week (38.5–60.6 kg) between gestational weeks (GW) 12+2 and 33+2 at which dyspnea appeared. Her body weight further increased to 69.1 kg at GW 34+2 at which echocardiography revealed left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction=27%, fractional shortening=4.0%). She then lost 24 kg in body weight by 4 weeks postpartum.
Competencies of preschool educators in Amsterdam: A Dutch perspective on language proficiency, language targets and didactic skills
Authors: Kuiken Folkert
Published: March 2014

Since the beginning of this century the Netherlands has invested much money and energy in the early education of two-and-a-half to six-year-old children in an effort to improve the quality of this type of education. In this paper we will focus on the measures that have been taken in the city with the largest number of preschools and early childhood educators in the Netherlands: Amsterdam. Great care is taken to fulfil the conditions for a successful early childhood education. What we have analyzed is the educators’ language proficiency level, their knowledge about language targets for the four to six-year-olds, and their didactic skills. A report of the schools inspectorate indicated that in many cases these competencies left much to be desired. Measures have therefore been taken in order to improve them. In this paper the contents of these measures and their results will be reported. It will become clear that constant interaction is going on between initiatives that have started on a local scale and measures that have been approved and are implemented at a national level.
The Investigation of Glass Spheres Containing Elastomer Based Materials for Tunable Device Applications
Authors: Şentürk E. , Okutan M. , Demirer A. , Akçakale N.
Published: March 2014

In this work, dielectric and tunability properties of glass spheres containing elastomer based materials have been investigated with dielectric spectroscopy as a function of frequency, composition and DC bias field. Real and imaginary part of dielectric constant and dielectric loss values of the gs1 (glass spheres), gs2, and gs3 were investigated in the frequency range of 100 to 40 × 106 Hz. Dielectric tunabilities of 69%, 87% and 33% were measured on gs1, gs2, and gs3 at 10 kHz and at room temperature. The degrees of anharmonic contributions to the polarization are very high for gs2 and gs3 as 4.53 × 10−8 and 1.77 × 10−8 (mm/kV)2. Also, dielectric constant, FOM (%) and absorption coefficient a values were calculated at 10 × 103 Hz and 20 × 103 V/mm depending for different glass spheres.
Investigation of Impact Compressive Mechanical Properties of Sandstone After as well as Under High Temperature
Authors: Liu Shi , Xu Jinyu
Published: March 2014

Conducting experimental studies on the impact compressive mechanical properties of rock under the high temperature environment is of both theoretical value and practical significance to understanding the relationship between the rock under the effect of impact loads and the high temperature environment. Based on the Φ100 mm SHPB and the self-developed Φ100 mm high-temperature SHPB test devices, the impact compressive tests on the sandstone, whether cooling after high temperatures or under real-time high temperatures are carried out. As the test results indicate that since the two high-temperature ways of loading are different from each other, the impact compressive properties of sandstone, after as well as under high temperatures, show different variations along with changes in temperature. Under the effect of the same impact loading rate, there exists a clear critical temperature range in the impact compressive mechanical properties of sandstone after high temperature, and, near the critical temperature, there occurs a significant mutation in the impact compressive mechanical properties. Under high temperatures, however, the impact compressive mechanical properties follow an overall continuity of change except that there are slight fluctuations at individual temperatures.
Influence of Copper on the Hot Ductility of 20CrMnTi Steel
Authors: Peng Hong-bing , Chen Wei-qing , Chen Lie , Guo Dong
Published: March 2014

The hot ductility of 20CrMnTi steel with
Blue Luminescent Biogenic Silicon-Germanium Oxide Nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Shuhong , Jeffryes Clayton , Rorrer Gregory L. , Chang Chih-Hung , Jiao Jun , Gutu Timothy
Published: March 2014

Marine diatoms are a class of microalgae that possess cell walls composed of silica nanoparticles. These organisms actively assimilate silicic acid Si(OH)4 from seawater, polymerize silicic acid to silica nanoparticles by a protein-mediated precipitation process, then assemble the silica nanoparticles into intricate patterns that constitute the cell wall microarchitecture of the diatom frustule. The biomineralization capacity of marine diatoms, Nitzschia frustulum, was harnessed to biologically manufacture silicon oxide / germanium oxide nanocomposite materials. Germanium was incorporated into living diatom cell mass by a two-stage cultivation process. The micro- and nanostructures of biogenic oxide nanocomposite were characterized by TEM with EDS, and XRD. Furthermore, photoluminescence (PL) measurements were performed on these biogenic nanocomposites with different post processing to study their optoelectronic properties. Strong blue photoluminescence was observed from samples treated with H2O2 and oxygen plasma. A clear blueshift was observed from the biogenic oxides with the addition of germanium. It is believed that self-trapped exciton affected by quantum confinement effect is responsible for the PL from these biogenic oxide nanocomposites.
Leptin receptor gene polymorphisms are associated with adiposity and metabolic alterations in Brazilian individuals
Authors: Oliveira Raquel de , Cerda Alvaro , Genvigir Fabiana Dalla Vecchia , Sampaio Marcelo Ferraz , Armaganijan Dikran , Bernik Marcia Martins Silveira , Dorea Egidio Lima , Hirata Mario Hiroyuki , Hinuy Hamilton Massayuki , Hirata Rosario Dominguez Crespo
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to investigate whether adiposity and metabolic markers, such as leptin, glucose, and lipids, are influenced by leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) gene polymorphisms in a sample of our population. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A group of 326 individuals of Caucasian-European descent, aged 30 to 80 years, 87 men and 239 women, 148 obese and 178 non-obese, was randomly selected at two clinical hospitals in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. All individuals declared their ethnic group as white during the initial interview. Anthropometric measurements, body mass index (BMI), and fat mass were evaluated. Blood samples were drawn for DNA extraction and measurements of leptin, soluble leptin receptor, glucose, and lipids. LEP -2548G>A and LEPR Lys109Arg (c.326A>G), Gln233Arg (c.668A>G) and Lys656Asn (c.1968G>C) polymorphisms were detected by PCR-RFLP. RESULTS: Increased leptin and serum lipids, and LEPR Arg223Arg (GG genotype) were associated with higher risk for obesity (p < 0.05), while reduced risk was found in LEPR Arg109Arg (GG genotype) carriers (OR: 0.38, 95%CI: 0.19-0.77, p = 0.007). Multiple linear regression analysis showed a relationship between LEPR 223Arg, increased waist circumference, and leptinemia (p < 0.05), while LEPR 109Arg was associated with high total cholesterol and triglycerides (p < 0.05). LEPR haplotype 3 (AGG: 109Lys/233Arg/656Lys) carriers have increased risk for obesity (OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.19-5.49, p = 0.017). Moreover, this haplotype was associated with increased BMI, waist circumference, and leptinemia (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: LEPR polymorphisms are associated with obesity, hyperleptinemia, and atherogenic lipid profile, suggesting their potential role for leptin resistance and cardiovascular risk. Moreover, LEPR haplotype 3 confers susceptibility to adiposity and hyperleptinemia in our population.
Reappraisal of serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-1) measurement in the detection of isolated and combined growth hormone deficiency (GHD) during the transition period
Authors: Boguszewski Cesar L. , Lacerda Claudio Silva de , Lacerda Filho Luiz de , Carvalho Julienne A. R. de , Boguszewski Margaret C. S.
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the accuracy of serum IGF-1 in the detection of isolated (IGHD) or combined growth hormone deficiency (CGHD) at the transition phase. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Forty nine patients with GHD during childhood [16 with IGHD (10 men) and 33 with CGHD (24 men); age 23.2 ± 3.5 yrs.] were submitted to an insulin tolerance test (ITT) with a GH peak < 5 µg/L used for the diagnosis of GHD at the transition phase. Pituitary function and IGF-1 measurements were evaluated in the basal sample of the ITT. Transition patients were reclassified as GH-sufficient (SGH; n = 12), IGHD (n = 7), or CGHD (n = 30). RESULTS: Five (31%) patients with IGHD and 32 (97%) with CGHD at childhood persisted with GHD at retesting. One patient with IGHD was reclassified as CGHD, whereas 3 patients with CGHD were reclassified as IGHD. Mean GH peak was 0.2 ± 0.3 µg/L in the CGHD, 1.3 ± 1.5 µg/L in the IGHD, and 18.1 ± 13.1 µg/L in the SGH group. Serum IGF-1 level was significantly higher in the SGH (272 ± 107 ng/mL) compared to IGHD (100.2 ± 110) and CGHD (48.7 ± 32.8) (p < 0.01). All patients reclassified as CGHD, 86% reclassified as IGHD, and 8.3% reclassified as SGH had low IGF-1 level, resulting in 97.3% sensitivity and 91.6% specificity in the detection of GHD at the transition period; the cutoff value of 110 ng/mL showed 94.5% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Mean IGF-1 values did not differ in IGHD or CGHD associated with one, two, three, or four additional pituitary deficiencies. CONCLUSION: IGF-1 measurement is accurate to replace ITT as initial diagnostic test for IGHD and CGHD detection at the transition phase.
Fatores determinantes de perda de peso em adultos submetidos a intervenções dietoterápicas
Authors: Viana Luciana Verçoza , Paula Tatiana Pedroso de , Leitão Cristiane Bauermann , Azevedo Mirela Jobim
Published: March 2014

OBJETIVO: Analisar os fatores determinantes da perda de peso (> 5%) resultante de atendimento ambulatorial individual. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo com 318 pacientes com sobrepeso/obesidade em atendimento individual para perder peso. RESULTADOS: Quinze por cento dos pacientes não perderam peso, 35,1% apresentaram perda < 5%, 35,4% entre 5-10% e 13,9% perda > 10%. Os pacientes que perderam > 5% de peso (-7,6 ± 3,3 kg; n = 156) tiveram maior número e menor intervalo entre consultas e maior frequência de atendimentos particulares, acompanhamento por nutricionista e atendimentos multidisciplinares. Ainda, houve neste grupo menor prescrição de medicamentos antiobesidade e o valor calórico total da dieta foi maior do que nos demais pacientes. Em análises multivariadas de regressão de Cox apenas o intervalo entre consultas e o número total de consultas permaneceram inversamente associados à perda de peso. CONCLUSÕES: Os determinantes de perda de peso > 5% foram um menor número de consultas com um menor intervalo entre os atendimentos.
Correlação entre níveis de iodo na urina e alterações anatomopatológicas em tireoide
Authors: Boasquevisque Paulo César Ribeiro , Jarske Robson Dettman , Dias Cleia Coelho , Quintaes Isabela Passos Pereira , Santos Maria Carmen Lopes Ferreira Silva , Musso Carlos
Published: March 2014

OBJETIVOS: Determinar o aporte nutricional de iodo na população estudada e correlacionar os níveis de iodo encontrados em amostras casuais de urina (iodúria) com alterações anatomopatológicas observadas nas tireoides dessa população. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Determinou-se a iodúria em 30 amostras casuais de urina e realizou-se o estudo anatomopatológico de 55 tireoides colhidas de cadáveres que deram entrada no Departamento Médico Legal de Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brasil, no período de maio a agosto de 2011. RESULTADOS: Em 29 amostras de urina (96,7%) encontrou-se iodúria acima do limite máximo preconizado pela Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) de 300 µg/L. Em 14 tireoides (25,5%) foi identificada a presença de quadros histológicos compatíveis com tireoidite. Níveis mais elevados de iodo na urina foram observados no sexo feminino e nos casos de tireoides com presença de achados inflamatórios (tireoidites). CONCLUSÕES: Podemos concluir que na população estudada houve um excesso de iodo em seu aporte nutricional e uma maior incidência de quadros inflamatórios tireoidianos.
Nonadenomatous nonencapsulated thymic parathyroid tissue concomitant with primary hyperparathyroidism due to ectopic parathyroid adenoma
Authors: Gungunes Askin , Sahin Mustafa , Gultekin Salih Sinan , Yilmazer Demet , Dilli Alper , Yandakci Kemal , Ozbek Mustafa , Cakal Erman , Delibasi Tuncay
Published: March 2014

Primary hyperparathyroidism due to ectopic parathyroid adenoma is not infrequent. Primary hyperparathyroidism caused by unusual thymic nonadenomatous nonencapsulated parathyroid tissue has been reported before. Both can cause unsuccessful neck explorations. Here we presented for the first time a patient with hyperparathyroidism due to ectopic parathyroid adenoma concomitant to the presence of thymic nonadenomatous nonencapsulated parathyroid tissue.
Use of Cast Post-and-cores for the Alteration of Crown Position for the Esthetically Compromised Patient
Authors: Hansen PA , Veurink J , Ambrososio M
Published: March 2014

The authors describe the use of cast post-and-cores, which allow a change in position of the clinical crown to permit the fabrication of two fixed partial dentures. The two fixed partial dentures change the clinical appearance of the patient.
Neuropathogenesis: rogue glia cause mayhem in the brain
Authors: Antony Joseph
Published: March 2014

Glia, including astrocytes, microglia and oligodendrocytes, are important components that maintain the architecture of the brain and in many ways contribute to the proper functioning of neurons. Glial cells vastly outnumber neurons in the brain and independently control several crucial brain functions. Impaired glial cells are the cause of several diseases, and pharmacological targeting to repair damaged glia will enable functional recovery in patients suffering from devastating neurological disorders. The interaction between glial cells and some patrolling immune cells in the brain comprise the brain-specific immune system that protects the brain from extraneous agents and repairs injured tissue. While this system can cope with minor insults and infections, when faced with significant challenges such as AIDS dementia, multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc., an effective and balanced immune response that facilitates repair and protection is found wanting. Several debilitating neurological disorders are often associated with dysfunctional glial cells that have limited ability to repair the injured brain and even promote brain damage. In this discussion, specific signaling pathways in glia that are affected in AIDS dementia and periventricular white matter injury will be highlighted.
Sediment transport modifications induced by submerged artificial reef systems: a case study for the Gulf of Venice
Authors: Bonaldo Davide , Benetazzo Alvise , Bergamasco Andrea , Falcieri Francesco , Carniel Sandro , Aurighi Marina , Sclavo Mauro
Published: March 2014

The shallow, gently sloping, sandy-silty seabed of the Venetian coast (Italy) is studded by a number of outcropping rocky systems of different size encouraging the development of peculiar zoobenthic biocenoses with considerably higher biodiversity indexes compared to neighbouring areas. In order to protect and enhance the growth of settling communities, artificial monolithic reefs were deployed close to the most important formations, providing further nesting sites and mechanical hindrance to illegal trawl fishing.

In this framework, a multi-step and multi-scale numerical modelling activity was carried out to predict the perturbations induced by the presence of artificial structures on sediment transport over the outcroppings and their implications on turbidity and water quality. After having characterized wave and current circulation climate at the sub-basin scale over a reference year, a set of small scale simulations was carried out to describe the effects of a single monolith under different geometries and hydrodynamic forcings, encompassing the conditions likely occurring at the study sites. A dedicated tool was then developed to compose the information contained in the small-scale database into realistic deployment configurations, and applied in four protected outcroppings identified as test sites. With reference to these cases, under current meteomarine climate the application highlighted a small and localised increase in suspended sediment concentration, suggesting that the implemented deployment strategy is not likely to produce harmful effects on turbidity close to the outcroppings.

In a broader context, the activity is oriented at the tuning of a flexible instrument for supporting the decision-making process in benthic environments of outstanding environmental relevance, especially in the Integrated Coastal Zone Management or Maritime Spatial Planning applications. The dissemination of sub-basin scale modelling results via the THREDDS Data Server, together with an user-friendly software for composing single-monolith runs and a graphical interface for exploring the available data, significantly improves the quantitative information collection and sharing among scientists, stakeholders and policy-makers.