bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between vegetation composition, vegetation zones and modern pollen assemblages in Setesdal, southern Norway
Authors: Felde Vivian A , Peglar Sylvia M , Bjune Anne E , Grytnes John-Arvid , Birks H John B
Published: June 2014

Reconstructing and interpreting past vegetation composition can be enhanced by studying modern pollen samples and contemporary vegetation. Here, we compare pollen in surface sediments from 52 medium-sized lakes with the surrounding vegetation along an elevational gradient covering six major vegetation zones in south-central Norway. The aims are to detect how well the vegetational composition and terrestrial pollen assemblages distinguish the major vegetation zones, whether the pollen composition in surface-sediment samples reflects the composition of the surrounding vegetation and whether aquatic pollen and spores reflect the major vegetation zones. We use multivariate classification trees, ordination and co-correspondence analysis to address these questions. We show that it is possible to separate the major zones using terrestrial pollen assemblages and using plant species in the vegetation reasonably well, whereas aquatic pollen and spores poorly reflect the zones. Surprisingly, the terrestrial pollen assemblages separate the zones better than vegetational composition does. The compositional match between the pollen assemblages and surrounding vegetation is consistent for sites along the elevational gradient within the forested zones, but deteriorates in increasingly open vegetation zones. Our results are consistent with other investigations of modern pollen–vegetation relationships. Careful interpretation of past vegetation from pollen assemblages is needed when the vegetation is treeless because of a larger potential pollen-source area and hence a higher proportion of long-distance dispersed pollen in open areas.
High mountain region of the Northern Romanian Carpathians responded sensitively to Holocene climate and land use changes: A multi-proxy analysis
Authors: Geantă Anca , Gałka Mariusz , Tanţău Ioan , Hutchinson Simon M , Mîndrescu Marcel , Feurdean Angelica
Published: June 2014

A high-altitude lake sediment sequence (Buhăiescu Mare, 1918 m a.s.l.) in the subalpine zone of the Rodna Mountains was analysed through a multi-proxy approach to determine the sensitivity of high mountain habitats to climate, fire and land use changes. The early Holocene regional forests were dominated by Pinus ( sylvestris and mugo) and replaced by Picea abies from 9800 cal. yr BP. After an extended hiatus in the profile ( c. 9800–4200 cal. yr BP), probably because of the physical removal of sediments through avalanche or high-flow events, P. abies, Abies alba and Fagus sylvatica forests developed after 4200 cal. yr BP. The timberline and treeline reacted sensitively to past changes in climate and human impact. The site was probably situated above the treeline throughout most of the investigated period. However, a treeline ecotone or krummholz zone may have sporadically reached the lake’s elevation in the early Holocene. A decline in timberline and treeline elevation was noted during the last 1200 years, and more evidently over the past 200 years, with replacement by subalpine shrubs ( Alnus viridis) and alpine herbaceous communities. Because these vegetation changes were associated with an increased prevalence of pollen-based anthropogenic indicators, charcoal particles and abiotic indicators, human-induced fires and clearance and resultant erosion inputs to the lake are implied. Effects of current warming on the altitude range of trees are not yet visible, probably because land use has more strongly contributed to changes in land cover than the climate fluctuations of the last millennium in the Rodna Mountains.
Did Iraq expect a nuclear Desert Storm? Deterrence, paradigms, and operational culture in a weapons of mass destruction environment
Authors: Cigar Norman
Published: June 2014

Most of the Iraqi political leadership, military, and public were convinced that there was a strong likelihood the United States would employ nuclear weapons during Desert Storm. This study examines how a combination of existing paradigms, propaganda, military doctrine, and a misunderstanding of US military and political strategy combined to predispose Iraq to expect nuclear escalation, and the impact the perceived threat had on nuclear deterrence and on Iraq’s conduct of the Gulf War. The research is based on captured Iraqi political and military documents, as well as on the Iraqi media and interviews.
Linking Environmental Awareness and Perceived Brand Eco-friendliness to Brand Trust and Purchase Intention
Authors: Punyatoya Plavini
Published: June 2014

The research examines the link among environmental awareness (EA), perceived brand eco-friendliness (PBE) and brand trust and the subsequent effect on eco-friendly (EF) brand purchase intention. The article adopted structural equation modeling approach to test the hypotheses. Data were collected from 223 Indian consumers. The results show that there is a positive relationship between EA and PBE. Consumer’s EA and perception that a brand is eco-friendly, lead to trust in the brand. Findings support that higher brand trust leads to increasing purchase intention towards the EF brand. The article adds to the existing literature by dealing with consumer perception about brand eco-friendliness and its subsequent effect on purchase intention. Contribution of this study to the academic and practice is discussed.
Competition, Concentration and the Relevance of New Banks’ Entry in the Indian Banking System
Authors: Arrawatia Rakesh , Misra Arun
Published: June 2014

This article analyzes the evolution of competition in the Indian banking system for the period 1994– 2011. The reform process for the Indian banking sector started in 1992, led by the Narasimhan committee report and thus the period of study is divided into three phases: deregulation and liberalization, consolidation and post-consolidation period. To evaluate competition, we apply two indicators of competition from the theory of industrial organization: concentration indices and Panzar and Rosse’s H-statistic (PRH statistic). The empirical evidence from the PRH statistic does not permit us to reject the existence of monopolistic competition. There is a steady fall in concentration ratios suggesting an improvement in competitive conditions. The PRH statistic suggests a fall in competitive condition during the consolidation phase followed by a revival in competitive conditions during the post consolidation period. This study also helps in understanding the effect of new banks’ entry in the Indian banking sector on the competitive conditions. The results obtained support the decision by Reserve Bank of India to allow entry of new private banks which will help in further infusing competition in the Indian banking sector.
Strategic Management and Multinational Corporations: A Case Study of Bacardi Limited
Authors: Inamete Ufot B.
Published: June 2014

The focus of this study is the examination of the factors that made Bacardi Limited to survive and become the successful multinational corporation today. The study uses the strategic management studies approach in this endeavour. Bacardi Limited is a corporation that has experienced a lot of challenges throughout its history. This study also analyzes the impacts of some of key strategic decisions and policies, innovations and actions of the company. Also, this study analyzes Bacardi Limited during the various eras of its history.
Methods comparison
Authors: Reising Monica M. , Schumann Kate R. , Crossley Beate M. , Glas Patricia S. , Jacobson Richard H. , Toohey-Kurth Kathy L. , Pedersen Janice C. , Siev David , Martin Barbara M.
Published: June 2014

The current report discusses the process in which a methods comparison study in the National Animal Health Laboratory Network is performed. Specific details are provided for designing and analyzing studies intended to evaluate analytical sensitivity, efficiency, analytical specificity, cross-contamination, repeatability, operator variability, and to compare the performance of methods using diagnostic samples. As an example, a case study is presented comparing the performance of a candidate reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) chemistry to the current RT-PCR chemistry in use when the assay was originally validated. The present study revealed that, for all of the validation factors evaluated, the candidate method performed at least as well and generally better than the current method. The candidate method was, therefore, deemed fit for the original intended purpose of the current method and rendered acceptable for use. A discussion of the case study is intended to further motivate consideration of the study designs chosen.
Outcomes Associated With Prothrombin Complex Concentrate for International Normalized Ratio Reversal in Patients on Oral Anticoagulants With Acute Bleeding
Authors: Tilton Ryan , Michalets Elizabeth Landrum , Delk Bethany , Sutherland Susan E. , Ramming Scott A.
Published: June 2014

Background: Management of bleeding in patients on oral anticoagulants (OACs) is crucial in optimizing outcomes. No large studies examine 3-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) for OAC reversal. Objective: To assess outcomes after administration of 3-factor PCC for reversal of international normalized ratio (INR). Method: We conducted an institutional review board–approved retrospective cohort study in all patients admitted to our level II trauma center over a 5-year period from 2007 to 2012 who received PCC for INR reversal and bleeding management. The primary outcome was assessment of efficacy as measured by achievement of INR < 1.5. Secondary objectives were to evaluate: factors associated with achievement of target INR, cessation of bleeding, mortality, outcome differences with or without fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or protocol utilization, safety, and cost. Result: A total of 403 patients were evaluated. Target INR was achieved in 88.8% of patients and was influenced by baseline INR. Associated factors were younger age ( P = 0.02), utilization of the institution’s protocol ( P < 0.01), and concomitant administration of vitamin K ( P < 0.01). Concomitant FFP did not affect achievement. Bleeding cessation occurred in 333 (82.6%) patients, and 68 (16.9%) patients died. Patients who achieved target INR were more likely to have bleeding cessation ( P < 0.01). The odds of survival for those who reached target INR was 3.8 times greater ( P < 0.01). The incidence of thromboembolism was 3.7%. Conclusion: Three-factor PCC administration with IV vitamin K was effective for INR reversal and bleeding cessation and should continue to be a mainstay of therapy pending head-to-head outcome and cost comparisons with 4-factor products.
Disclosure Suspicion Bias and Abuse Disclosure
Authors: Rush Elizabeth B. , Lyon Thomas D. , Ahern Elizabeth C. , Quas Jodi A.
Published: June 2014

Prior research has found that children disclosing physical abuse appear more reticent and less consistent than children disclosing sexual abuse. Although this has been attributed to differences in reluctance, it may also be due to differences in the process by which abuse is suspected and investigated. Disclosure may play a larger role in arousing suspicions of sexual abuse, while other evidence may play a larger role in arousing suspicions of physical abuse. As a result, children who disclose physical abuse in formal investigations may be doing so for the first time, and they may be more reluctant to provide details of the abuse. We examined abuse disclosure and evidence in comparable samples of court-substantiated physical ( n = 33) and sexual ( n = 28) abuse. Consistent with predictions, the likelihood that the child had disclosed abuse before an investigation began was lower in physical (27%) than that in sexual (67%) abuse cases, and there was more nondisclosure evidence of abuse in physical abuse cases. These findings have implications for understanding the dynamics and meaning of disclosure in cases involving different types of abuse.
A Pilot Study of the Psychological Impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami
Authors: Niitsu Kosuke , Watanabe-Galloway Shinobu , Sayles Harlan , Houfek Julia , Rice Michael
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND: There is evidence that a large-scale disaster may have indirect psychological impact on the individuals who were not involved with the disaster first hand. The 2011 earthquake and tsunami disasters in Japan provide an opportunity to investigate the potential global effect of indirect exposure associated with intense media coverage. OBJECTIVES: To compare the disaster’s psychological impact between Japanese and non-Japanese students; to determine what factors are associated with higher psychological impact. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, anonymous online survey of university students in the Midwest. RESULTS: Japanese students scored significantly higher on the Impact of Event Scale–Revised (IES-R) hyperarousal subscale compared with non-Japanese students. Those who were in Japan when the disaster occurred exhibited significantly higher psychological impact levels. There were significant correlations between media exposure and two IES-R subscales: avoidance and hyperarousal. CONCLUSIONS: The results support the finding from 9/11 studies that indirect exposure is associated with stress-related psychological responses.
Nature-Based Tourism Destinations
Authors: Line Nathaniel D. , Costen Wanda M.
Published: June 2014

This article takes a dyadic approach to the conceptualization of nature-based tourism (NBT) destinations. Treating the natural area and its gateway city as distinct evaluative objects, we propose that tourists may differentially assess each element of a city–park dyad based on the degree to which the attributes of each are perceived as conducive to the fulfillment of NBT-specific goals. By empirically testing this perspective, this study reveals the unique complexities of NBT. The findings indicate that nature-based tourists have distinct perceptions of natural areas and their gateway cities. The results also reveal that proenvironmental attitudes motivate individuals to engage in NBT and are associated with a positive image of the natural area. However, these proenvironmental attitudes also yield negative attitudes toward the human-made attributes of the gateway city, which result in a negative image of the city itself. The principal implications for future research and application are discussed.
An Updated Ranking of Hospitality and Tourism Journals
Authors: Gursoy Dogan , Sandstrom Jennifer Kaye
Published: June 2014

This study develops an updated ranking of hospitality and tourism journals by assessing the influence assigned to those journals by researchers in each field. Journals are evaluated utilizing data collected from two groups, 62 of the top 100 researchers and 463 other researchers in the fields of hospitality and tourism. Results suggest that journals that are considered “top tier” in tourism and hospitality have remained relatively constant over the years. However, there is little consistency among the rankings of journals beyond the top journals in both fields. Annals of Tourism Research, Tourism Management, and Journal of Travel Research are found to be top journals in the field of tourism while International Journal of Hospitality Management and Journal of Hospitality & Tourism Research are identified as the top journals in the field of hospitality.
Narrative abilities in subgroups of English language learners and monolingual peers
Authors: Hipfner-Boucher Kathleen , Milburn Trelani , Weitzman Elaine , Greenberg Janice , Pelletier Janette , Girolametto Luigi
Published: June 2014

Aims and objectives:

The objective of this study was to examine the narrative ability of two subgroups of English Language Learners (ELLs) relative to a group of English monolingual (EL1) peers. Specifically, we investigated whether the three groups of children differed on measures of narrative macrostructure and microstructure.

Methodology:

Two groups of ELLs were identified on the basis of parent report of the language most often heard and spoken at home (ELL English language users, ELL minority language users). A group of monolingual English children served as a comparison group ( n = 25 per language group). The children averaged 56 months of age. All children completed a narrative retell task.

Data and analysis:

The retell task was scored in relation to macrostructure (narrative information) and microstructure (number of utterances, mean length of utterance, number of different words, grammaticality). ANCOVAs, partialling out age and memory, revealed distinct performance profiles for the two ELL groups.

Findings:

There were no group differences on the number of utterances or story grammar. However, the performance of the ELL minority language group was significantly different from that of the EL1 and the ELL English language group on all microstructure measures (number of different words, sentence length, and grammaticality). Overall, the performance of the ELL English language users was indistinguishable from the EL1 group.

Originality:

The study highlights the heterogeneity in an ELL kindergarten sample with respect to English narrative ability, based on the extent to which English was heard and spoken at home.

Implications:

The findings highlight the need to gather detailed linguistic information about the home language environments of ELL children when involving them in language- or literacy-related tasks. An important implication of this information is the potential to lead to more nuanced expectations or teaching methods for subgroups of ELL children.
Connecting Critical Theory of Technology to Educational Studies
Authors: Kruger-Ross Matthew James
Published: June 2014

In this article, I explore how transformative learning theory, an approach to educating drawn from adult education, can be used to provide access to the critical theory of technology for educators. Rather than focusing primarily on K–12 teachers and educational systems or higher education and other postsecondary instruction, I connect learning as a human capacity with the critical approach to technology. Beginning with a discussion of assumptions and how they structure our ability to make meaning within two common perspectives on technology, instrumentalism and substantivism, an overview of the basic framework of the critical theory of technology is shared and situated among the assumptions made by current perspectives toward technology. Transformative learning theory is then presented as a possible connective thread that could be used to assist educational researchers and practitioners embrace a more critical approach to technology in education.
Unemployment and Health
Authors: Björklund Ove , Söderlund Maud , Nyström Lisbet , Häggström Elisabeth
Published: June 2014

Studies have shown that the experiences and consequences of unemployment can affect people differently depending on, for example, age and gender. The purpose of the present study was to describe young Finnish men’s experiences of being unemployed as well as how their experiences of health emerged. Fifteen young unemployed Finnish men in the age range 18 to 27 years were interviewed face to face. Purposive sampling was used to increase the variation among informants. The interview texts were analyzed using both manifest and latent qualitative content analysis. The present results showed that the young men were strongly negatively affected by being unemployed. They described how they had slowly lost their foothold. They also described feelings of shame and guilt as well as a flight from reality. The present results show that even young men who have only experienced shorter periods of unemployment, in this study periods between 2 and 6 months, are negatively affected, for example, with regard to their identity and emotional life. Further research is needed to describe and elucidate in more detail the effects of unemployment on men of different ages and living in different contexts.
Situating the education of African Trinidadians within the social and historical context of Trinidad and Tobago: Implications for social justice
Authors: Nakhid Camille , Barrow Dorian , Broomes Orlena
Published: June 2014

Today, almost a century after gaining access to the country’s most prestigious secondary schools, determining the academic achievement of African Trinidadian students remains a challenge as neither Trinidad and Tobago’s Ministry of Education nor the Caribbean Examination Council, the regional agency responsible for administering standardized testing in the Caribbean, collect school data based on student ethnicity, race or socio-economic class. Public reporting is done at the aggregate student level and school reports for each examination subject are issued and are publicly available online. This article situates the education of African Trinidadians within the social and historical context of Trinidad and Tobago by first providing a brief overview of the history of education and cultural formation in the country since emancipation followed by a theoretical discussion which attempts to explain the educational achievement of African Trinidadians. A comparative look at the situation in Fiji and the way that affirmative action might address underachievement is also presented. The authors also call for the collection of empirical data on student ethnicity and socio-economic class in order to determine and address any educational disparities that may exist.
Optimizing upgrade level and preventive maintenance policy for second-hand products sold with warranty
Authors: Su Chun , Wang Xiaolin
Published: June 2014

With the steady growth of second-hand products’ market, offering warranty for second-hand products is becoming popular for dealers in order to meet customers’ requirement. During that process, upgrade actions and maintenance policies are of great importance. In this article, an optimization model for second-hand items sold with non-renewing free repair warranty is proposed from the view of dealers, in which a second-hand product is subjected to upgrade action at the end of its past life and during the warranty period, preventive maintenance actions are carried out when the age of the product reaches a pre-specified threshold value. Optimal upgrade level and preventive maintenance policy are jointly derived so that the dealer’s expected profit can be maximized. The structural properties of the optimal policies are investigated. Finally, a numerical example and sensitivity analysis are provided to demonstrate the proposed approach.
Storage in ultra-low-temperature decreases the levels of IgM anticardiolipin antibody in serum samples from tuberculosis patients
Authors: Ng Alexandra , Weeks-Galindo Cheyenne , Goodridge Amador
Published: June 2014

The evaluation of novel tuberculosis (TB) biomarkers relies on analysis of previously stored sample sets. We aimed to determine the effect of storage temperature on serum IgM anticardiolipin antibody levels in samples from TB patients. Ultra-low-temperature storage decreased IgM anticardiolipin levels. We recommend against using ultra-low-temperature storage when investigating IgM anticardiolipin biomarker-based tests.
Consensus statement for non-estrogen-based treatments for menopausal symptoms
Authors: Woyka Jane , Tanna Nuttan
Published: June 2014

Non-estrogen-based therapies can be used for the treatment of hot flushes, for symptoms of urogenital atrophy and for lack of sexual desire and/or fatigue not improved by estrogen treatments. Treatment choice should be based on up-to-date information and targeted to individual women’s needs. Non-hormonal therapies are useful particularly for women with estrogen-dependent disease such as breast and endometrial cancers.
Body identical hormone replacement
Authors: Panay Nick
Published: June 2014

The adverse outcomes seen in the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) 1 were mainly due to an over-dosage of hormones in a relatively elderly population. However, fundamental differences exist between conjugated equine estrogens and 17 beta estradiol and between medroxyprogesterone acetate and natural progesterone. It is likely that these differences also contributed to the adverse outcomes in WHI, which were contrary to the cardiovascular benefits seen in previous observational trials. Recent studies of cardiovascular risk markers in younger women have been designed using predominantly estradiol and natural progesterone (transdermal and oral) as the primary interventions. This paper reviews the effects that body identical estradiol and progesterone can have, both in the physiological environment and also when replaced as transdermal estradiol and micronised oral progesterone.
Health and Well-Being in Emerging Adults’ Same-Sex Relationships
Authors: Frost David M. , Meyer Ilan H. , Hammack Phillip L.
Published: June 2014

Researchers have yet to account for the potentially unique experiences of emerging adults who are in or seeking to be in a relationship with a same-sex romantic partner. This article articulates an agenda for research focused on better understanding and addressing the health and well-being of emerging adults in or pursuing same-sex romantic relationships. We provide a general summary of what is known about health and well-being in same-sex relationships, followed by an overview of the current and changing social climate surrounding same-sex relationships. We point out how recent historical changes present sexual minority emerging adults with unique relational benefits and challenges that have not been examined within the social and health sciences. We conclude by proposing a set of research questions to help develop knowledge needed to improve the health and well-being of emerging adults in or pursuing same-sex relationships.
Gender Differences in Severity and Correlates of Depression Symptoms in People Living with HIV in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Aljassem Kinda , Raboud Janet M. , Hart Trevor A. , Benoit Anita , Su DeSheng , Margolese Shari L. , Rourke Sean B. , Rueda Sergio , Burchell Ann , Cairney John , Shuper Paul , Loutfy Mona R. ,   and the OHTN Cohort Study Research Team
Published: June 2014

This study investigates the differences in severity and correlates of depression symptoms among 1069 men and 267 women living with HIV in Ontario, Canada, who completed the 20-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). Women had higher CES-D scores than that of men (median [interquartile range]: 13 [5-26] versus 9 [3-20], P = .0004). More women had total CES-D scores >15 (mild-moderate depression; 44% versus 33%, P = .002) and >21 (severe depression; 31% versus 23%, P = .003). Unlike men, at age 40, women’s scores increased yearly (0.4 per increased year, P = .005). The distribution of scores differed by gender: There was no difference in the 10th percentile of depression scores, 0 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0-1.0) but the 75th percentile of depression scores for women was 6 (95% CI: 2.0-10.0) points higher than that of men. Important gender differences exist in depression symptoms and in correlates of symptoms in people living with HIV.
Cerebrovascular responses to submaximal exercise in women with COPD
Authors: Hartmann Sara E , Leigh Richard , Poulin Marc J
Published: June 2014

Background

COPD patients have decreased physical fitness, and have an increased risk of vascular disease. In the general population, fitness is positively associated with resting cerebral blood flow velocity, however, little is known about the cerebrovascular response during exercise particularly in COPD patients. We hypothesized that COPD patients would have lower cerebral blood flow during exercise secondary to decreased physical fitness and underlying vascular disease.

Methods

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing was conducted in 11 women with GOLD stage I-II COPD, and 11 healthy controls to assess fitness. Cerebro- and cardio-vascular responses were compared between groups during two steady-state exercise tests (50% peak O2 consumption and 30 W). The main outcome variable was peak middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (

V
¯

P

) during exercise using transcranial Doppler ultrasonography.

Results

Physical fitness was decreased in COPD patients.

V
¯

P

was comparable between COPD and controls (25 ± 22% versus 15 ± 13%, respectively; P > 0.05) when exercising at the same relative intensity, despite patients having higher blood pressure and greater arterial desaturation. However,

V
¯

P

was elevated in COPD (31 ± 26% versus 13 ± 10%; P ≤ 0.05) when exercising at the same workload as controls.

Conclusions

Our results are contradictory to our a-priori hypothesis, suggesting that during matched intensity exercise, cerebral blood flow velocity is similar between COPD and controls. However, exercise at a modestly greater workload imposes a large physical demand to COPD patients, resulting in increased CBF compared to controls. Normal activities of daily living may therefore impose a large cerebrovascular demand in COPD patients, consequently reducing their cerebrovascular reserve capacity.
A prospective study of midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation in treatment of rigid pes cavus deformity
Authors: Zhou You , Zhou Binghua , Liu Junpeng , Tan Xiaokang , Tao Xu , Chen Wan , Tang Kanglai
Published: June 2014

Background

Midfoot osteotomy has been previously confirmed to be a good method to correct pes cavus. How to fix the osteotomy and which point to choose for the procedure has been a focus for most surgeons. The aim of this study was to analyse the outcomes of a series of patients who had been treated for pes cavus deformity using midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation.

Materials and methods

Between 2008 and 2012, 17 patients with a mean age of 16.8 years (12–36 years) were tracked after treatment by midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation with three cannulated screws between the Lisfranc line and Cyma line. Clinical outcomes were assessed by measuring improvements of appearance and function, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and radiographic changes.

Results

The mean follow-up time was 25.3 months (range, 10–50). The mean healing time from the osteotomy was 7.8 weeks (range, 6–12). The appearance and weight-bearing function were significantly improved in all patients. At a final follow-up, the mean AOFAS score was 75.8/100 points (range, 63–90). The mean Meary's angle, calcaneal pitch angle, tibiotalar angle, and Hibb's angle values improved from 26.3 to 5.5, 44.5 to 28.3, 133.1 to 100.8 and 66.9 to 41.1, respectively. Adjacent joints presented no obviously arthritic degeneration at the follow-up. Subjectively, 94.1% of patients were very satisfied or satisfied with minor reservations. Objective outcomes were excellent or good in 88.2% of feet.

Conclusion

For the treatment of rigid pes cavus deformity, extra-articular midfoot osteotomy combined with adjacent joint sparing internal fixation is effective and safe. This surgical technique is especially effective with low rates of arthritic degeneration and joint stiffness in the adjacent joints and little reduction of ankle and foot flexibility.
Evaluation of antitumor activity of a TGF-beta receptor I inhibitor (SD-208) on human colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Akbari Abolfazl , Amanpour Saeid , Muhammadnejad Samad , Ghahremani Mohammad Hossein , Ghaffari Seyed Hamidollah , Dehpour Ahmad Reza , Mobini Gholam Reza , Shidfar Fatemeh , Abastabar Mahdi , Khoshzaban Ahad , Faghihloo Ebrahim , Karimi Abbas , Heidari Mansour
Published: June 2014

Background

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway is involved in primary tumor progression and in promoting metastasis in a considerable proportion of human cancers such as colorectal cancer (CRC). Therefore, blockage of TGF-β pathway signaling via an inhibitor could be a valuable tool in CRC treatment.

Methods

To evaluate the efficacy of systemic targeting of the TGF-β pathway for therapeutic effects on CRC, we investigated the effects of a TGβRI (TGF-β receptor 1) or TβRI kinase inhibitor, SD-208, on SW-48, colon adenocarcinoma cells. In this work, in vitro cell proliferation was studied by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and bromo-2′-deoxyuridine (BrdU) assays. Also, the histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluations were conducted by hematoxylin and eosin, and Ki-67 and CD34 markers were stained, respectively.

Results

Our results showed no significant reduction in cell proliferation and vessel formation (170 ± 70 and 165 ± 70, P > 0.05) in treated SW-48 cells with SD-208 compared to controls.

Conclusion

Our data suggested that SD-208 could not significantly reduce tumor growth and angiogenesis in human colorectal cancer model at least using SW-48 cells.
Concomitant use of tamoxifen and endoxifen in postmenopausal early breast cancer: prediction of plasma levels by physiologically-based pharmacokinetic modeling
Authors: Dickschen Kristin , Eissing Thomas , Mürdter Thomas , Schwab Matthias , Willmann Stefan , Hempel Georg
Published: June 2014

Purpose

To overcome cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) mediated tamoxifen resistance in postmenopausal early breast cancer, CYP2D6 phenotype-adjusted tamoxifen dosing in patients with impaired CYP2D6 metabolism and/or the application of endoxifen, the most potent tamoxifen metabolite, are alternative treatment options. To elucidate both strategies comprehensively we used a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approach.

Methods

Firstly simulation of increasing tamoxifen dosages was performed by a virtual clinical trial including populations of CYP2D6 poor (PM), intermediate (IM) and extensive metabolizers (EM) (N = 8,000). Secondly we performed PBPK-simulations under consideration of tamoxifen use plus concomitant increasing dosages of endoxifen (N = 7,000).

Results

Our virtual study demonstrates that dose escalation of tamoxifen in IMs resulted in endoxifen steady-state plasma concentrations similar to CYP2D6 EMs whereas PMs did not reach EM endoxifen levels. Steady-state plasma concentrations of tamoxifen, N-desmethyl-tamoxifen, 4-hydroxy-tamoxifen and endoxifen were similar in CYP2D6 IMs and PMs versus EMs using once daily dosing of 20 mg tamoxifen and concomitant CYP2D6 phenotype-adjusted endoxifen dosing in IMs and PMs (1 mg/d and 3 mg/d, respectively).

Conclusion

In conclusion, we suggest that co-administration of endoxifen in tamoxifen treated early breast cancer women with impaired CYP2D6 metabolism is a promising alternative to reach plasma concentrations comparable to CYP2D6 EM patients.
Reconciling findings on the employment effect of disability insurance
Authors: Bound John , Lindner Stephan , Waidmann Timothy
Published: June 2014

Over the last 25 years, the Social Security Disability Insurance Program (DI) has grown dramatically. During the same period, employment rates for men with work limitations showed substantial declines in both absolute and relative terms. While the timing of these trends suggests that the expansion of DI was a major contributor to employment decline among this group, raising questions about the targeting of disability benefits, studies using denied applicants suggest a more modest role of the DI expansion. To reconcile these findings, we decompose total employment changes into population and employment changes for three categories: DI beneficiaries, denied applicants, and non-applicants. Our results show that during the early 1990s, the growth in DI can fully explain the employment decline for men only under an extreme assumption about the employment potential of beneficiaries. For the period after the mid-1990s, we find little role for the DI program in explaining the continuing employment decline for men with work limitations.

JEL codes

I3, J2
Fluorescence Quenching of Hen Egg Lysozyme and Bovine Serum Albumin by Azobenzene Polymer at Different pH
Authors: Han Guoxiang , Feng Ning , Wang Guojie
Published: June 2014

The interactions of hen egg lysozyme (HEL) and bovine serum albumin (BSA) with an azobenzene polymer (P(AZO-co-AA)) were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy. The azobenzene chromophore could strongly quench the intrinsic fluorescence of the proteins through the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and the quenching effect was dependent on the pH values since the polymer also contained pH-sensitive carboxylic groups. The fluorescence quenching by azobenzene shows great potential applications in protein sensing.
Plasticity of the Muscles in the Protein Sensitization. Involvement of Cholinergic asnd Purinergic Mechanisms
Authors: Теплов  , Teplov O. , Миннебаев  , Minnebaev M. , Фархутдинов  , Farkhutdinov A. , Теплов  , Teplov A. , Торшин  , Torshin V,
Published: June 2014

The authors investigated the involvement of the adenosine triphosphate (ATF) in the mechanisms of plasticity in the striated muscle in condition of protein sensitization. Contractile function and non-quantum secretion of the acetylcholine in the endplate zone were studied in isolated skeletal muscles of mouse legs (musculus soleus and musculus extensor digitorum longus) and strips musculus diaphragm. The authors studied the soleus and diaphragm dynamics of the force vector of muscle contraction after effects of exogenous adenosine triphosphate correlated with changes non-quantum secretion of acetylcholine in all the experimental models. However, the extent of these changes in sensitized animals is less pronounced than in the controls. It is suggested that adenosine is a party change mechanisms and functional properties soleus and diaphragm at the protein sensitization. The basis of the development of resistance, stability to long as the external stress, and at the initial stages of the experimental allergic these muscles are dependent adenosine mechanisms regulating their sensitivity to acetylcholine. These processes provide a reduction in respiratory muscle fatigue in hypoxia that occurs in asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and broncho-spastic syndrome, as well in increase their performance during prolonged physical activity. The reasons for changes in the force reduction extensor digitorum longus at a protein sensitization doesn’t associated with the mechanisms of muscle excitation mediated by adenosine triphosphate.
Stability of Physiological Functions and Methods of Its Estimation
Authors: Мезенцева  , Mezentseva Larisa , Перцов  , Pertsov S.
Published: June 2014

Problem of physiological functions stability is the important part of the theoretical physiology. P.K.Anohin´s basic ideas - the theory of functional systems and systemic approach to study of physiological functions have begun the development of theoretical physiology and mathematical modeling in biomedicine. In this paper methodological aspects of using of various biomodels for an estimation of stability of physiological functions are considered. Experimental, genetic, mathematical and computer biomodels are described. Practical techniques of an estimation of stability are illustrated on an example of stability of cardiovascular functions to stressor loads. Examples of different experimental models of stress and methods of estimation of stressor loads influence on cardiac electrical stability are described. Cardiac electrical stability was estimated by thresholds for ventricular fibrillation. Besides experimental, examples of mathematical and computer methods of an estimation of stability of cardiovascular functions to stressor loads are presented. Mathematical model that enables to investigate the stability of heart rate dynamics to stressor loads is based on quantitative characteristics of impulse conduction in heart conducting system. The model describes the phenomena observed at gradual increase of stressor intensity. It was shown the existence of a critical point of transition of heart rate dynamics from linear to chaotic mode. The results show that the greatest stability is notable for the linear regime. For this regime small errors in values of initial conditions can’t sharply change the initial dynamics of RR intervals.
Surgical Treatment of the Tubal Infertility: Issues and Options
Authors: Яковлева  , Yakovleva Natalya
Published: June 2014

There are two basic principles in the treatment of the tubal infertility: surgery and assisted reproductive technologies. The high efficiency of the surgical methods of the female reproductive functions recovery in comparison with in vitro fertilization is demonstrated in this paper. According to the literature review there are two effective basic surgical methods: microsurgery and endo-video-surgery in the treatment of the patients with tubal infertility. It was demonstrated that the unsuccessful results of the surgical treatment of the patients with tubal infertility are essentially connected to the fallopian tubes reocclusion and adhesive process recurrence in the small pelvis cavity. According to the new literature data, the different intra-operative and postoperative methods of the improvement of the effectiveness of the surgical management of this patient population were analyzed. However the further examinations are necessary, they will determine strict criteria for the treatment method choice of the patients with tubal infertility. The possible ways to increase the surgical management efficiency of the tubal infertility will be the surgical technique development and working out of the new methods of the rehabilitation therapy oriented to the prophylaxis of the fallopian tubes reocclusion, restoration of their functional activity, prophylaxis of the postoperative adhesion formation. The literature data review showed that surgical treatment and assisted reproductive technology must be considered as complement each other methods that may be used particularly and in combination.
Circadian Rhythm Features of Sympathatic and Parasympathatic Interaction According to Data of Spectral Components of Heart Rate in Pregnant Women and Puerperas in Perinatal Period
Authors: Гиршева  , Girsheva E. , Ерохин  , Erokhin Aleksander
Published: June 2014

By means of daily ECG monitoring on the device “Kardiоtechnika-06” (Inkart Ltd, St. Petersburg, Russia) the authors studied the character of sympathetic and parasympathetic interaction as correlation of the percentage inputs of high frequency (HF), low frequency (LF), and very low frequency (VLF) spectrum components of the heart rate variability in 73 pregnant women aged of 27.7+6.1 years in perinatal period (before and after the delivery). The control group consisted of 30 healthy non-pregnant women aged 32.8+7.6 years on average. It was revealed that the daily dynamics of sympathetic and parasympathetic interaction in pregnant and the puerperas in perinatal period was similar to the control group of women provided that the delivery was without complications. The dynamics was characterized by the increase of parasympathetic effects at the night time and the increase of sympathetic ones at the day time. The time period between 6.00 a.m. and 9.00 a.m. is especially important for the functional condition of the vegetative nervous system in the perinatal period of both pregnant women and puerperas as far as sharp changes in the sympathetic and parasympathetic interaction were noted. Throughout 24 hours period in the perinatal period, the sympathetic and parasympathetic interaction is characterized by considerable changes in the puerperas in comparison with the pregnant women. The revealed feature of daily dynamics of heart rate variability in the pregnant women and the puerperas provide the physiological conditions to optimize the cycle of sleeping and wakeful states in the women in perinatal period.
Morphological Peculiarities of the Behaviour of Hemostatic Drug "SERGISEL Fibrillar" in the Treatment of Piercing Wounds Liver
Authors: Махнев  , Makhnev A. , Молокова  , Molokova O. , Стольникова  , Stolnikova Yu. , Стрелин  , Strelin S.
Published: June 2014

The experiment was carried out on 21 mongrel dogs. The authors studied the morphological changes in the liver after introduction of a pass-through stab wound hemostatic preparation new generation " Sergisel Fibrillar " and cryo-application the mouth of the wound channel to secure the preparation and amplification hemostatic effect. During observation from 1 to 30 days it is established gradually wound healing and formation of liver damage in the area of fine connective tissue scar. After the use of the "Sergisel fibrillar" as a foreign object, standard morphological response in the form of a purulent inflammation and proliferation of connective tissue are developed. These processes are broken off and around the fibers don’t develop abscess, because resorption of fiber hemostatic agents occurs in a short time. The results of the end of the experimental observation were the followings: regenerative processes in liver parenchyma increasing, particularly in the area of damage and are shown restoration of the girder structure of the liver, the disappearance of oedema and plethora. It indicates the recovery of liver tissue after applying the proposed method.
Biotechnical Complex of Diagnostics and Correction of a Functional Condition of Sportsmen
Authors: Бойко  , Boyko V. , Мещанинов  , Meshchaninov S.
Published: June 2014

The staffs of the Dneprodzerzhinsk State Technical University (Ukraine), the College of physical education and the Dnepropetrovsk Institute of physical culture and sports have offered the methods of regulation of training loads athletes, depending on the energy performance of the cardiovascular system. The important objective of this study was creation the principles of diagnostics state of the cardiovascular system of sportsmen. It is shown that the basic structural knots of the biotechnical system are: patient (sportsman), operator (doctor), echocardiograph, electrocardiograph, block of ultrasonic influences, personal computer, interface, stand of operator, printer, gym kit. The structural scheme of the biotech complex diagnostics and correction of the state of this system is proposed. Basic principles of creation of biotechnical complex were carried out for diagnostics and correction of the functional state of sportsmen. The methods of regulation of the training loading of sportsmen were offered depending on the power indexes of the cardiovascular system. The mechanism of functioning of the cardiovascular system of man is considered at the increased physical loading. The main parameters of ultrasonic influences on the heart muscle (indoor massage), improves the cardiovascular system are considered. The structure of biotechnical complex of diagnostics and correction of properties of the cardiovascular system is considered on the basis of the personal computer, echo- and electrocardiograph, ultrasonic generator, trainer "KONCEPT".
Role of the Ghrelin and the Leptin Levels in the Regulation of Body Weight in the Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Корнеева  , Korneeva E.
Published: June 2014

The variety of metabolic functions of protein hormones - leptin and ghrelin - determines the difference in the therapeutic approach to the treatment of patients with metabolic syndrome. This paper presents the results of a study of the leptin and ghrelin levels in serum of patients with metabolic syndrome. It was revealed that hyperleptinemia was observed in 20.2% of patients with the most obese women II and III than in men. Leptin resistance is also more common in women than in men by 36.4%. However, the ratio of leptin / BMI against compliance with the recommendations for the treatment of metabolic syndrome in men decreased by 2.1 times faster than that of women. Ghrelin levels remained high in patients with the metabolic syndrome by obesity III and IV degree after ingestion. In these patients the strength of lowering the ghrelin level is proportional to time. The rate of gastric emptying was delayed , and the feeling of satiety did not come. This has contributed to an increase in the amount of food intake and body weight gain at the expense of adipose tissue , producing high levels of leptin. The continued high drop it ghrelin and leptin in serum of obese patients significantly impede range of therapeutic interventions.