bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educação infantil e psicologia: para que brincar?
Authors: Lordelo Eulina da Rocha , Carvalho Ana Maria Almeida
Published: September 2012

Discute-se o lugar da brincadeira no currículo da educação infantil. A partir da nova LDB, coloca-se a tarefa de construir, ou reconstruir, em alguns casos, propostas de atendimento que contemplem as necessidades da criança em desenvolvimento. A mudança constitui um problema face à tendência à aplicação, por analogia, de um modelo de instituição escolar a essa faixa etária, evidente na organização do ambiente e das atividades proporcionadas à criança. Questiona-se a visão da brincadeira como meio através do qual a criança vai atingir objetivos escolares, representando uma visão de infância apenas como promessa de futuro, sem importância para o presente. Propõe-se uma orientação para a educação infantil que privilegie um conceito de desenvolvimento como adaptação atual.
Prostituição juvenil: uma condição existencial em busca de seus sentidos
Authors: Molina Ana Maria Ricci
Published: September 2012

A prostituição, no Brasil, vem sendo exercida por algumas crianças e adolescentes. Estudos apresentam como seus fatores constitutivos as questões estruturais (condição sócio-econômica desfavorável) e as simbólicas (relações de poder entre gênero e dinâmica familiar). Esta é uma pesquisa piloto, com embasamento teórico-metodológico sobre o estudo de produção de sentidos através das práticas discursivas. Com os estudos de casos, fez-se a análise do discurso das entrevistas realizadas com jovens que “fazem ponto” nas ruas de Ribeirão Preto/SP. Pode-se compreender a prostituição juvenil como um dispositivo capaz de produzir sentidos à suas histórias de vida, representações de resistência e sobrevivência a uma condição de solidão e revolta.
A produção de conhecimento em psicologia: a análise do comportamento
Authors: Tourinho Emmanuel Zagury
Published: September 2012

O artigo discute a proposta behaviorista radical de constituição da Psicologia como ciência do comportamento, destacando três conjuntos de questões: a) a noção de conhecimento com a qual opera, especialmente do ponto de vista da rejeição de princípios do positivismo lógico e adoção de uma concepção instrumental e relacional; b) uma interpretação da Psicologia como campo de saber que articula conteúdos filosóficos, científicos e aplicados e c) o programa de investigação dos fenômenos psicológicos orientado por um recorte externalista e por uma concepção selecionista de causalidade. A elaboração behaviorista radical é contrastada com concepções modernas acerca do homem, salientando-se seu alcance e seu caráter crítico e inovador na Psicologia e na cultura em geral.
A saúde e o bem-estar espiritual em adultos porto-alegrenses
Authors: Marques Luciana Fernandes
Published: September 2012

A proposta deste estudo é investigar a inter-relação entre o bem-estar espiritual e a saúde geral. Foram aplicados a Escala de Bem-estar Espiritual (Paulotzian e Ellison, 1982) e o Questionário de Saúde Geral (Goldberg, 1972), para uma amostra não-clínica de 506 pessoas, entre 16 e 78 anos, residentes em Porto Alegre (RS). A análise estatística dos dados mostrou que há uma correlação positiva significativa entre saúde e bem-estar espiritual. As aplicações deste estudo apontam para uma inclusão da espiritualidade na concepção de saúde, unida às dimensões biológica, psicológica e social e confirma que a espiritualidade pode fazer uma importante contribuição para a promoção da saúde e prevenção da doença.
Hipertensão arterial em idosos atendidos em grupos de aconselhamento: comentários a partir de um estudo descritivo preliminar
Authors: Vieira Vidigal de Andrade , Castiel Luis David
Published: September 2012

O Brasil vem apresentando um processo de transição em sua estrutura demográfica, onde se evidencia a queda da natalidade e o aumento da expectativa de vida. Como conseqüências indesejáveis do envelhecimento populacional, sem uma correspondente reestruturação e melhoria na organização dos diversos níveis de atenção à saúde, observa-se o aumento das morbidades pelas doenças crônicodegenerativas, crescente demanda aos serviços de saúde, especialmente na saúde pública, e a redução na qualidade de vida da população idosa e sem recursos financeiros. A presença da doença na vida das pessoas provoca novas ordenações de seus valores pessoais, objetivos de vida e percepções sobre o mundo. A necessidade dessas freqüentes mudanças na vida dos indivíduos e dos grupos sociais determina a elaboração de novas estratégias de enfrentamento na ordenação dos papéis sociais o que, por sua vez, dificulta a implementação de medidas preventivas e de promoção à saúde.
Light Response of Native and IntroducedMiscanthus sinensisSeedlings
Authors: Matlaga David P. , Quinn Lauren D. , Davis Adam S. , Stewart J. Ryan
Published: September 2012

The Asian grassMiscanthus sinensis(Poaceae) is being considered for use as a bioenergy crop in the U.S. Corn Belt. Originally introduced to the United States for ornamental plantings, it escaped, forming invasive populations. The concern is that naturalizedM. sinensispopulations have evolved shade tolerance. We tested the hypothesis that seedlings from within the invasive U.S. range ofM. sinensiswould display traits associated with shade tolerance, namely increased area for light capture and phenotypic plasticity, compared with seedlings from the native Japanese populations. In a common garden experiment, seedlings of 80 half-sib maternal lines were grown from the native range (Japan) and 60 half-sib maternal lines from the invasive range (U.S.) under four light levels. Seedling leaf area, leaf size, growth, and biomass allocation were measured on the resulting seedlings after 12 wk. Seedlings from both regions responded strongly to the light gradient. High light conditions resulted in seedlings with greater leaf area, larger leaves, and a shift to greater belowground biomass investment, compared with shaded seedlings. Japanese seedlings produced more biomass and total leaf area than U.S. seedlings across all light levels. Generally, U.S. and Japanese seedlings allocated a similar amount of biomass to foliage and equal leaf area per leaf mass. Subtle differences in light response by region were observed for total leaf area, mass, growth, and leaf size. U.S. seedlings had slightly higher plasticity for total mass and leaf area but lower plasticity for measures of biomass allocation and leaf traits compared with Japanese seedlings. Our results do not provide general support for the hypothesis of increasedM. sinensisshade tolerance within its introduced U.S. range compared with native Japanese populations.
Community-Level Waterbird Responses to Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)
Authors: Villamagna Amy M. , Murphy Brian R. , Karpanty Sarah M.
Published: September 2012

Water hyacinth is among the most widespread invasive plants worldwide; however, its effects on waterbirds are largely undocumented. We monitored site use by waterbirds at Lake Chapala, the largest lake in Mexico and recently designated Ramsar site, to evaluate the potential influence of water hyacinth cover on species composition and aggregate measures of the waterbird community, including waterbird density, species richness, and Simpson's index of diversity. We examined the response of waterbirds to changes in percent water hyacinth cover at 22 independent sites around the lake during six study seasons from May 2006 to February 2008. We found little evidence to suggest that percent water hyacinth cover affected aggregate community measures; however, multivariate analysis of relative species composition suggested that water hyacinth cover corresponded with seasonal species composition (Canonical Correspondence r = 0.66, P = 0.007) when seasonal site cover averaged 17.7 ± 4.67% (winter 2007). Several migratory species were not observed during this season, which could suggest that some small-bodied migratory species avoided Lake Chapala during the winter of high water hyacinth cover. We suspect that observed changes in the waterbird community are in response to species-specific tolerances for water hyacinth and indirect abiotic and biotic effects of its presence (e.g., invertebrate and fish composition).
Private Forest Owners and Invasive Plants: Risk Perception and Management
Authors: Fischer A. Paige , Charnley Susan
Published: September 2012

We investigated nonindustrial private forest (NIPF) owners' invasive plant risk perceptions and mitigation practices using statistical analysis of mail survey data and qualitative analysis of interview data collected in Oregon's ponderosa pine zone. We found that 52% of the survey sample was aware of invasive plant species considered problematic by local natural resource professionals; 70% was concerned about these species; and 46% had treated invasive plants on their parcels. Owners' perceptions of invasive plant risks fell along a spectrum ranging from a lack of awareness or concern, to the view that invasive plant infestations have discrete causes and controllable consequences, to the perception that incursions by invasive plants have diffuse causes and uncontrollable effects. Being aware or concerned about invasive plant species were predictors (p≤ 0.001) of whether owners treat their parcels to control invasive plants. Holding wildlife habitat and/or biodiversity as an important forest management goal was also a predictor (p≤ 0.08) of whether owners treated their parcels to control invasive plants. Some owners were sensitive to the risks of invasive plant infestations from nearby properties, and a surprisingly high percentage of respondents had cooperated with others in forest management activities previously. Our findings suggest three approaches to increasing the frequency of invasive plant mitigation by NIPF owners that hold promise: (1) raising awareness and concern about invasive plants and their impacts on forest management goals that owners care about, such as wildlife habitat and/or biodiversity; (2) providing assistance to help owners mitigate invasive plants they feel unable to control; and (3) engaging owners in coordinated efforts across ownership boundaries to address invasive plant risks.
Quality of Life and Survival in Patients with Advanced Kidney Failure Managed Conservatively or by Dialysis
Authors: Da Silva-Gane Maria , Wellsted David , Greenshields Hannah , Norton Sam , Chandna Shahid M. , Farrington Ken
Published: September 2012

Background and objectives

Benefits of dialysis in elderly dependent patients are not clearcut. Some patients forego dialysis, opting for conservative kidney management (CKM). This study prospectively compared quality of life and survival in CKM patients and those opting for dialysis.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Quality-of-life assessments (Short-Form 36, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and Satisfaction with Life Scale) were performed every 3 months for up to 3 years in patients with advanced, progressive CKD (late stage 4 and stage 5).

Results

After 3 years, 80 and 44 of 170 patients had started or were planned for hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis, respectively; 30 were undergoing CKM; and 16 remained undecided. Mean baseline estimated GFR ± SD was similar (14.0±4.0 ml/min per 1.73 m2) in all groups but was slightly higher in undecided patients. CKM patients were older, more dependent, and more highly comorbid; had poorer physical health; and had higher anxiety levels than the dialysis patients. Mental health, depression, and life satisfaction scores were similar. Multilevel growth models demonstrated no serial change in quality-of-life measures except life satisfaction, which decreased significantly after dialysis initiation and remained stable in CKM. In Cox models controlling for comorbidity, Karnofsky performance scale score, age, physical health score, and propensity score, median survival from recruitment was 1317 days in HD patients (mean of 326 dialysis sessions) and 913 days in CKM patients.

Conclusions

Patients choosing CKM maintained quality of life. Adjusted median survival from recruitment was 13 months shorter for CKM patients than HD patients.
Influence of sintering temperature on raw and beneficiated clay “Klokoti”
Authors: Jovanovic Marina , Volkov-Husovic Tatjana
Published: September 2012

The raw clay ?Klokoti? from middle Bosnia was beneficiated by method of wet
separation which results in removing fraction over 20 ?m. The raw clay was
characterized by chemical composition, grain size distribution and
characteristic temperatures on heating microscope. The beneficiated clay was
characterized by chemical composition and characteristic temperatures. The
phase composition of raw and beneficiated clay was observed by RDA while the
microstructure was monitored on scanning electron microscope (SEM). The
sintering process was performed at 1100?C, 1250?C, 1320?C and 1400?C with two
hours holding time at the highest temperature. The obtained results indicate
a big content of coarse quartz in raw clay and gradually increase of
crystalline mullite content with increasing temperature of sintering.
Beneficiated clay at higher temperature of sintering produces larger glassy
phase content, which is result of larger fluxing content in its composition.
It is also observed that from beneficiated clay by sintering at 1250?C
crystallize the most mullite along with minimum porosity and the lowest
glassy phase content.
Ho2O3 additive effects on BaTiO3 ceramics microstructure and dielectric properties
Authors: Paunovic Vesna , Mitic Vojislav , Miljkovic Miroslav , Pavlovic Vera , Zivkovic Ljiljana
Published: September 2012

Doped BaTiO3-ceramics is very interesting for their application as PTCR
resistors, multilayer ceramic capacitors, thermal sensors etc. Ho doped
BaTiO3 ceramics, with different Ho2O3 content, ranging from 0.01 to 1.0 wt%
Ho, were investigated regarding their microstructural and dielectric
characteristics. The samples were prepared by the conventional solid state
reaction and sintered at 1320? and 1380?C in an air atmosphere for 4 hours.
The grain size and microstructure characteristics for various samples and
their phase composition was carried out using a scanning electron microscope
(SEM) equipped with EDS system. SEM analysis of Ho/BaTiO3 doped ceramics
showed that in samples doped with a rare-earth ions low level, the grain size
ranged from 20-30?m, while with the higher dopant concentration the abnormal
grain growth is inhibited and the grain size ranged between 2- 10?m.
Dielectric measurements were carried out as a function of temperature up to
180?C. The low doped samples sintered at 1380?C, display the high value of
dielectric permittivity at room temperature, 2400 for 0.01Ho/BaTiO3. A nearly
flat permittivity-response was obtained in specimens with higher additive
content. Using a Curie-Weiss low and modified Curie-Weiss low the Curie
constant (C), Curie temperature (Tc) and a critical exponent of nonlinearity
(?) were calculated. The obtained value of ? pointed out that the specimens
have almost sharp phase transition.
Two echelon partial trade credit financing in a supply chain derived algebraically
Authors: Jaggi Chandra , Verma Mona
Published: September 2012

Trade credit financing has become a powerful tool to improve sales & profit
in an industry. In general, a supplier/retailer frequently offers trade
credit to its credit risk downstream member in order to stimulate their
respective sales. This trade credit may either be full or partial depending
upon the past profile of the downstream member. Partial trade credit may be
offered by the supplier/retailer to their credit risk downstream member who
must pay a portion of the purchase amount at the time of placing an order and
then receives a permissible delay on the rest of the outstanding amount to
avoid non-payment risks. The present study investigates the retailer?s
inventory problem under partial trade credit financing for two echelon supply
chain where the supplier, as well as the retailer, offers partial trade
credit to the subsequent downstream member. An algebraic approach has been
applied for finding the retailer?s optimal ordering policy under minimizing
the annual total relevant cost. Results have been validated with the help of
examples followed by comprehensive sensitivity analysis.
Good Intentions at Good Grains, Inc.
Authors: Hughes Susan B. , Beaudoin Cathy , Boedeker Russell R.
Published: September 2012

This case addresses the “gray” area associated with the use of accounting discretion as it relates to expense line item reclassifications. Such a context allows for an examination of the pressures that influence accounting decisions, and provides a glimpse into how managers might manage reported expenses. The reader meets analyst David Johnson when, as a result of both internal and external pressure to keep research and development (R&D) costs within budget, he is asked to find ways to reclassify R&D costs into other expense areas. As a result of the request, David immerses himself in the task in order to identify, within generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), opportunities to reclassify R&D expenses to cost of goods sold. He ultimately proposes three separate reclassification entries that, although technically within GAAP guidelines, involve the use of accounting discretion. All three entries are approved by the accounting team. Financial accounting, managerial accounting, and M.B.A. students report that the case enhanced their knowledge of financial reporting and helped them understand ethical considerations associated with the preparation of financial statements. Accounting professionals report the case realistically depicts what accountants face in the workplace. A case extension using International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is also provided.
Of Hurricanes and Harness Racing: The Accounting Fraud at DHB Industries, Inc.
Authors: Knapp Michael C. , Knapp Carol A.
Published: September 2012

This instructional case focuses on an accounting and financial reporting fraud involving DHB Industries, Inc., the nation's largest manufacturer of bullet-resistant vests. Three executives of this Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registrant, including its founder and CEO, masterminded a large-scale fraud that grossly misrepresented DHB's financial statements. The three executives colluded to conceal their misdeeds from the four accounting firms that served as the company's independent auditors over the course of the fraud. In late 2010, a federal jury convicted DHB's former CEO and COO of multiple counts of fraud and related charges. This case addresses a wide range of auditing issues raised by the DHB fraud, including the identification of fraud risk factors, auditing of related-party transactions, the impact of frequent auditor changes on audit quality, and the internal control reporting responsibilities of auditors.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor–Mediated Islet Hypervascularization and Inflammation Contribute to Progressive Reduction of β-Cell Mass
Authors: Agudo Judith , Ayuso Eduard , Jimenez Veronica , Casellas Alba , Mallol Cristina , Salavert Ariana , Tafuro Sabrina , Obach Mercè , Ruzo Albert , Moya Marta , Pujol Anna , Bosch Fatima
Published: September 2012

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) results from insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion. Insulin resistance initially causes compensatory islet hyperplasia that progresses to islet disorganization and altered vascularization, inflammation, and, finally, decreased functional β-cell mass and hyperglycemia. The precise mechanism(s) underlying β-cell failure remain to be elucidated. In this study, we show that in insulin-resistant high-fat diet-fed mice, the enhanced islet vascularization and inflammation was parallel to an increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF). To elucidate the role of VEGF in these processes, we have genetically engineered β-cells to overexpress VEGF (in transgenic mice or after adeno-associated viral vector-mediated gene transfer). We found that sustained increases in β-cell VEGF levels led to disorganized, hypervascularized, and fibrotic islets, progressive macrophage infiltration, and proinflammatory cytokine production, including tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β. This resulted in impaired insulin secretion, decreased β-cell mass, and hyperglycemia with age. These results indicate that sustained VEGF upregulation may participate in the initiation of a process leading to β-cell failure and further suggest that compensatory islet hyperplasia and hypervascularization may contribute to progressive inflammation and β-cell mass loss during T2D.
Central Resistin Overexposure Induces Insulin Resistance Through Toll-Like Receptor 4
Authors: Benomar Yacir , Gertler Arieh , De Lacy Pamela , Crépin Delphine , Ould Hamouda Hassina , Riffault Laure , Taouis Mohammed
Published: September 2012

Resistin promotes both inflammation and insulin resistance associated with energy homeostasis impairment. However, the resistin receptor and the molecular mechanisms mediating its effects in the hypothalamus, crucial for energy homeostasis control, and key insulin-sensitive tissues are still unknown. In the current study, we report that chronic resistin infusion in the lateral cerebral ventricle of normal rats markedly affects both hypothalamic and peripheral insulin responsiveness. Central resistin treatment inhibited insulin-dependent phosphorylation of insulin receptor (IR), AKT, and extracellular signal–related kinase 1/2 associated with reduced IR expression and with upregulation of suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 and phosphotyrosine phosphatase 1B, two negative regulators of insulin signaling. Additionally, central resistin promotes the activation of the serine kinases Jun NH2-terminal kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, enhances the serine phosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate-1, and increases the expression of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 in the hypothalamus and key peripheral insulin-sensitive tissues. Interestingly, we also report for the first time, to our knowledge, the direct binding of resistin to Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 receptors in the hypothalamus, leading to the activation of the associated proinflammatory pathways. Taken together, our findings clearly identify TLR4 as the binding site for resistin in the hypothalamus and bring new insight into the molecular mechanisms involved in resistin-induced inflammation and insulin resistance in the whole animal.
Apolipoprotein E2 Accentuates Postprandial Inflammation and Diet-Induced Obesity to Promote Hyperinsulinemia in Mice
Authors: Kuhel David G. , Konaniah Eddy S. , Basford Joshua E. , McVey Courtney , Goodin Colleen T. , Chatterjee Tapan K. , Weintraub Neal L. , Hui David Y.
Published: September 2012

Genetic studies have revealed the association between the ε2 allele of the apolipoprotein E (apoE) gene and greater risk of metabolic diseases. This study compared C57BL/6 mice in which the endogenous mouse gene has been replaced by the human APOE2 or APOE3 gene (APOE2 and APOE3 mice) to identify the mechanism underlying the relationship between ε2 and obesity and diabetes. In comparison with APOE3 mice, the APOE2 mice had elevated fasting plasma lipid and insulin levels and displayed prolonged postprandial hyperlipidemia accompanied by increased granulocyte number and inflammation 2 h after being fed a lipid-rich meal. In comparison with APOE3 mice, the APOE2 mice also showed increased adiposity when maintained on a Western-type, high-fat, high-cholesterol diet. Adipose tissue dysfunction with increased macrophage infiltration, abundant crown-like structures, and inflammation were also observed in adipose tissues of APOE2 mice. The severe adipocyte dysfunction and tissue inflammation corresponded with the robust hyperinsulinemia observed in APOE2 mice after being fed the Western-type diet. Taken together, these data showed that impaired plasma clearance of apoE2-containing, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins promotes lipid redistribution to neutrophils and adipocytes to accentuate inflammation and adiposity, thereby accelerating the development of hyperinsulinemia that will ultimately lead to advanced metabolic diseases.
Insulin Regimens and Clinical Outcomes in a Type 1 Diabetes Cohort
Authors: Pihoker Catherine , Badaru Angela , Anderson Andrea , Morgan Timothy , Dolan Lawrence , Dabelea Dana , Imperatore Giuseppina , Linder Barbara , Marcovina Santica , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth , Reynolds Kristi , Klingensmith Georgeanna J. ,   for the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study Group
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVE

To examine the patterns and associations of insulin regimens and change in regimens with clinical outcomes in a diverse population of children with recently diagnosed type 1 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study sample consisted of youth with type 1 diabetes who completed a baseline SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth study visit after being newly diagnosed and at least one follow-up visit. Demographic, diabetes self-management, physical, and laboratory measures were collected at study visits. Insulin regimens and change in regimen compared with the initial visit were categorized as more intensive (MI), no change (NC), or less intensive (LI). We examined relationships between insulin regimens, change in regimen, and outcomes including A1C and fasting C-peptide.

RESULTS

Of the 1,606 participants with a mean follow-up of 36 months, 51.7% changed to an MI regimen, 44.7% had NC, and 3.6% changed to an LI regimen. Participants who were younger, non-Hispanic white, and from families of higher income and parental education and who had private health insurance were more likely to be in MI or NC groups. Those in MI and NC groups had lower baseline A1C (P = 0.028) and smaller increase in A1C over time than LI (P < 0.01). Younger age, continuous subcutaneous insulin pump therapy, and change to MI were associated with higher probability of achieving target A1C levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin regimens were intensified over time in over half of participants but varied by sociodemographic domains. As more intensive regimens were associated with better outcomes, early intensification of management may improve outcomes in all children with diabetes. Although intensification of insulin regimen is preferred, choice of insulin regimen must be individualized based on the child and family’s ability to comply with the prescribed plan.
The Clinical Utility of the Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit (FSS-ICU) at a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Thrush Aaron , Rozek Melanie , Dekerlegand Jennifer L.
Published: September 2012

Background and Purpose

Long-term acute care hospitals (LTACHs) have emerged for patients requiring medical care beyond a short stay. Minimal data have been reported on functional outcomes in this setting. The purposes of this study were: (1) to measure the clinical utility of the Functional Status Score for the Intensive Care Unit (FSS-ICU) in an LTACH setting and (2) to explore the association between FSS-ICU score and discharge setting.

Participants

Data were obtained from 101 patients (median age=70 years, interquartile range [IQR]=61–78; 39% female, 61% male) who were admitted to an LTACH. Participants were categorized into 1 of 5 groups by discharge setting: (1) home (n=14), (2) inpatient rehabilitation facility (n=26), (3) skilled nursing facility (n=23), (4) long-term care/hospice/expired (n=13), or (5) transferred to a short-stay hospital (n=25).

Methods

Data were prospectively collected from a 38-bed LTACH in the United States over 8 months beginning in September 2010. Functional status was scored using the FSS-ICU within 4 days of admission and every 2 weeks until discharge. The FSS-ICU consists of 5 categories: rolling, supine-to-sit transfers, unsupported sitting, sit-to-stand transfers, and ambulation. Each category was rated from 0 to 7, with a maximum cumulative FSS-ICU score of 35.

Results

Cumulative FSS-ICU scores significantly improved from a median (IQR) of 9 (3–17) to 14 (5–24) at discharge. Median (IQR) cumulative discharge FSS-ICU scores were significantly different among the discharge categories: home=28 (22–32), inpatient rehabilitation facility=21 (15–24), skilled nursing facility=14 (8–21), long-term care/hospice/expired=5 (0–11), and transfer to a short-stay hospital=4 (0–7).

Discussion and Conclusions

Patients receiving therapy at an LTACH demonstrate significant improvements from admission to discharge using the FSS-ICU. This outcome tool discriminates among discharge settings and successfully documents functional improvements of patients in an LTACH setting.
Level of Agreement Between Methods for Measuring Moderate to Vigorous Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in People With Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Obesity
Authors: Igelström Helena , Emtner Margareta , Lindberg Eva , Åsenlöf Pernilla
Published: September 2012

Background

There is ambiguity about what measures to use to best identify physical activity and sedentary behavior, and agreement between methods for measuring physical activity and sedentary behavior in people with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and obesity has not been evaluated.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the level of agreement between an accelerometer and a self-report questionnaire (International Physical Activity Questionnaire [IPAQ]) or a logbook for measuring time spent on moderate to vigorous physical activity and time spent sedentary in people with OSAS and obesity.

Design

This prospective study was a psychometric evaluation of agreement between measurement methods.

Methods

Thirty-nine people who were obese (body mass index: X̅=36.1 kg/m2, SD=4.35) and had moderate to severe OSAS (apnea-hypopnea index of ≥15) were consecutively recruited from a sleep clinic in Sweden. All were treated with continuous positive airway pressure and were waiting for a follow-up sleep evaluation.

Results

Agreement between the measurement methods was limited. For physical activity, the mean difference between the accelerometer and the IPAQ was 47 minutes, and the mean difference between the accelerometer and the logbook was 32 minutes. Agreement was limited for sedentary time as well; the mean difference between the accelerometer and the IPAQ was 114 minutes, and the mean difference between the accelerometer and the logbook was 86 minutes.

Limitations

The small sample size may affect the interpretation and generalizability of the results.

Conclusions

The results imply that the methods cannot be used interchangeably. A combination of an accelerometer and a daily logbook seems to provide a detailed description of physical activity and sedentary behavior.
Case of the disappearing subdural hygromas in a pediatric patient with acute lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Kaloostian Paul E. , Chen Han , Rupp Frederick , Marchand Erich
Published: September 2012

The authors report the case of a 16-year-old boy with pre-B cell acute lymphocytic leukemia diagnosed 2 weeks earlier. On workup for diffuse headaches he was found to have 10-mm bilateral subdural hygromas with compression of the underlying gyri. He was followed clinically, and 4 days after his initial presentation he underwent MRI studies of the brain, which showed complete resolution of the subdural fluid collections. No change in management was noted during these 4 days. This case is the first known instance of rapid, spontaneously disappearing bilateral subdural hygromas in a pediatric patient.
Thrombin-triggered angiogenesis in rat brains following experimental intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Zhou Hua-Jun , Tang Tao , Cui Han-Jin , Yang A-Li , Luo Jie-Kun , Lin Yuan , Yang Qi-Dong , Li Xing-Qun
Published: September 2012

Object

Angiogenesis occurs after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Thrombin mediates mitogenesis and survival in endothelial cells and induces angiogenesis. The present study aimed to clarify whether thrombin is involved in triggering ICH-related angiogenesis.

Methods

In the first part of the experiment, autologous blood (with or without hirudin) was injected to induce ICH. In the second part, rats received either 1 U (50 μl) thrombin or 50 μl 0.9% sterile saline. In both parts, 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) was administered intraperitoneally. Brains were perfused to identify BrdU-positive/von Willebrand factor (vWF)–positive nuclei. The expression of hypoxia-inducible factor–1α (HIF-1α), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and Ang-2 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

After ICH, the number of BrdU-/vWF-positive nuclei increased until Day 14, and vessels positive for HIF-1α, VEGF, Ang-1, and Ang-2 were observed around the clot. Quantitative analysis showed that ICH upregulated expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, Ang-1, and Ang-2 notably compared with that in sham controls (p < 0.05). However, hirudin significantly inhibited these effects. After thrombin treatment, many BrdU-positive/vWF-positive nuclei and HIF-1α–, VEGF-, Ang-1– and Ang-2–positive vessels could be detected around the affected region.

Conclusions

Thrombin can induce angiogenesis in rat brains and may be an important trigger for ICH-related angiogenesis.
Incidence of cerebral ischemic events after discontinuation of clopidogrel in patients with intracranial aneurysms treated with stent-assisted techniques
Authors: Rossen James D. , Chalouhi Nohra , Wassef Shafik N. , Thomas Jacob , Abel Taylor J. , Jabbour Pascal M. , Kung David K. , Hasan David M.
Published: September 2012

Object

The optimal antiplatelet medication protocol for prevention of thrombotic complications after stent-assisted coil embolization of cerebral aneurysms is unclear. Early cessation of antiplatelet agents may be associated with an increased risk of cerebral ischemic events. In this study, the authors assess the incidence of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) following discontinuation of a 6-week course of clopidogrel in patients with cerebral aneurysms treated with stent-assisted techniques.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted in all patients with cerebral aneurysms undergoing stent-assisted coil embolization or stent-in-stent flow diversion at the University of Iowa during a 24-month period. The antiplatelet protocol was 81 mg aspirin and 75 mg clopidogrel daily for 6 weeks, followed by 325 mg aspirin daily indefinitely. The incidence of stroke or TIA was determined by a retrospective review of medical records generated during a 3-month period following discontinuation of clopidogrel.

Results

A total of 154 patients underwent aneurysm treatment with stent techniques during this interval. Documentation of neurological follow-up 3 months after discontinuation of a 6-week clopidogrel treatment was available in 121 (78.6%) of 154 patients. Of these 121 patients, 114 were treated with stent-assisted coil embolization and 7 with stent-in-stent flow diversion. Six patients (5%) suffered an ischemic event after cessation of clopidogrel, with 2 events occurring within the first 2 weeks. Specifically, the rate of ischemic events was 5 (4.3%) of 114 in the “stent-coil” treatment group and 1 (14.3%) of 7 in the stent-in-stent group. Treatment had been performed in the setting of a subarachnoid hemorrhage in 1 patient. Atypical aneurysm features and technical factors predisposing to thrombotic events were found in all but one of these patients. Similarly, cardiovascular risk factors were present in 5 of the 6 patients in whom ischemic events developed after clopidogrel discontinuation.

Conclusions

Clopidogrel discontinuation is associated with a 5% risk of ischemic events in patients treated with stent techniques. Any stroke related to clopidogrel discontinuation is avoidable, and longer treatment is therefore clearly necessary. Patients with cardiovascular risk factors, high-risk aneurysm features, and those undergoing stent-in-stent flow diversion might benefit the most from longer clopidogrel therapy.
Nonstop Selection for High and Stable Crop Yield by Two Prognostic Equations to Reduce Yield Losses
Authors: Fasoula Dionysia A.
Published: September 2012

Yield losses occurring at the field level, whether due to plant diseases or abiotic stresses, reveal reduced stability of the crop yield potential. The paper argues that the stability of crop yield potential is a trait with a clear genetic component, which can be successfully selected for at the single-plant level and incorporated into high-yielding cultivars. Two novel selection equations with prognostic power are presented, capable to objectively phenotype and evaluate individual plants in real field conditions in the absence of the masking effects of interplant competition and soil heterogeneity. The equations predict performance at the crop stand through the key concept of coefficient of homeostasis and are equally useful for early generation selection and for nonstop selection within finished cultivars in order to continuously incorporate the adaptive (genetic or epigenetic) responses of plants. Exploitation of adaptive responses acquires particular importance in view of the climate change effects on crop productivity and the changing biotic or abiotic micro-environments. Cotton is used as a case study to highlight the potential of nonstop selection for increasing crop yield and for the gradual build-up of disease resistance. In addition, the paper envisions and proposes the formation of international networks of researchers focusing on specific diseases as, for example, the cereal root-rot or the cotton Verticillium wilt that will concurrently use the proposed strategy in their respective environments to select for resistant genotypes, while gaining a deeper understanding of the nature of the genetic or epigenetic changes at the phenotypic and genomic levels.
Characterization of 15 Polymorphic Microsatellite Loci for Cephalotaxus oliveri (Cephalotaxaceae), a Conifer of Medicinal Importance
Authors: Miao Yingchun , Lang Xuedong , Li Shuaifeng , Su Jianrong , Wang Yuehua
Published: September 2012

Cephalotaxus oliveri is a scarce medicinal conifer endemic to the south central region of China and Vietnam. A small fragmented population presently exists due to anthropogenic disturbance. C. oliveri has been used for its alkaloids harringtonine and homoharringtonine, which are effective against leucocythemia and lymphadenosarcoma. Monoecious plants have been detected in nature, although they were understood to be dioecious. In order to study the mating system, population genetics and the genetic effects of habitat fragmentation on C. oliveri, 15 polymorphic and 12 monomorphic microsatellite loci were developed for C. oliveri by using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences Containing repeats (FIASCO) protocol. The polymorphisms were assessed in 96 individuals from three natural populations (32 individuals per population). The number of alleles per locus ranged from two to 33, the observed and expected heterozygosity per locus ranged from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.000 to 0.923, respectively. These loci would facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the genetic dynamics on C. oliveri, which will be useful for establishing effective conservation strategies for this species.
Isolation and Characterization of 13 New Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers in the Phaseolus vulgaris L. (Common Bean) Genome
Authors: Wang Aihua , Ding Yi , Hu Zhenhua , Lin Chufa , Wang Shuzhen , Wang Bingcai , Zhang Hongyuan , Zhou Guolin
Published: September 2012

In this study, 13 polymorphic microsatellite markers were isolated from the Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean) by using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequence COntaining Repeats (FIASCO) protocol. These markers revealed two to seven alleles, with an average of 3.64 alleles per locus. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values ranged from 0.055 to 0.721 over 13 loci, with a mean value of 0.492, and 7 loci having PIC greater than 0.5. The expected heterozygosity (HE) and observed heterozygosity (HO) levels ranged from 0.057 to 0.814 and from 0.026 to 0.531, respectively. Cross-species amplification of the 13 prime pairs was performed in its related specie of Vigna unguiculata L. Seven out of all these markers showed cross-species transferability. These markers will be useful for future genetic diversity and population genetics studies for this agricultural specie and its related species.
Ethyl 7-Methyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-3-oxo-2-{[3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl]methylidene}-2,3-dihydro-5H-[1,3]thiazolo[3,2-a]pyrimidine-6-carboxylate
Authors: Viveka Shivapura , Dinesha  , Laxmeshwar Sandeep Sadananda , Nagaraja Gundibasappa Karikannar
Published: September 2012

A simple route for synthesis of compound 3 via three component reaction involving ethyl 6-methyl-4-(4-methylphenyl)-2-thioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate (1), 3-(3,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde (2) and monochloroacetic acid is described. The newly synthesized compound is well characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H-NMR and mass spectral studies.
Phenolic Antioxidants Isolated from the Flowers of Osmanthus fragrans
Authors: Hung Chien-Ya , Tsai Yu-Cheng , Li Kuo-Yu
Published: September 2012

O. fragrans has slightly less antioxidative activity than green tea. Five phenolic compounds, tyrosyl acetate (1), (+)-phillygenin (2), (8E)-ligustroside (3), rutin (4), and verbascoside (5), were isolated from the CHCl3 sub-extract of O. fragrans. The structures were elucidated by interpreting their spectral data. Evaluation of the antioxidative property of the isolated (+)-phillygenin (2), rutin (4), and verbascoside (5) revealed strong DPPH radical scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 19.1, 10.3, and 6.2 μM, respectively. These isolates also exhibited an H2O2 scavenging ability, with IC50 values of 10.5, 23.4, and 13.4 μM, respectively.
Endophytic Fungi Produce Gibberellins and Indoleacetic Acid and Promotes Host-Plant Growth during Stress
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Khan Abdul Latif , Kamran Muhammad , Hamayun Muhammad , Kang Sang-Mo , Kim Yoon-Ha , Lee In-Jung
Published: September 2012

We isolated and examined two endophytic fungi for their potential to secrete phytohormones viz. gibberellins (GAs) and indoleacetic acid (IAA) and mitigate abiotic stresses like salinity and drought. The endophytic fungi Phoma glomerata LWL2 and Penicillium sp. LWL3 significantly promoted the shoot and allied growth attributes of GAs-deficient dwarf mutant Waito-C and Dongjin-beyo rice. Analysis of the pure cultures of these endophytic fungi showed biologically active GAs (GA1, GA3, GA4 and GA7) in various quantities. The cultures of P. glomerata and Penicillium sp. also contained IAA. The culture application and endophytic-association with host-cucumber plants significantly increased the plant biomass and related growth parameters under sodium chloride and polyethylene glycol induced salinity and drought stress as compared to control plants. The endophytic symbiosis resulted in significantly higher assimilation of essential nutrients like potassium, calcium and magnesium as compared to control plants during salinity stress. Endophytic-association reduced the sodium toxicity and promoted the host-benefit ratio in cucumber plants as compared to non-inoculated control plants. The symbiotic-association mitigated stress by compromising the activities of reduced glutathione, catalase, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. Under stress conditions, the endophyte-infection significantly modulated stress through down-regulated abscisic acid, altered jasmonic acid, and elevated salicylic acid contents as compared to control. In conclusion, the two endophytes significantly reprogrammed the growth of host plants during stress conditions.
Selenium, Selenoprotein Genes and Crohn’s Disease in a Case-Control Population from Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Gentschew Liljana , Bishop Karen S. , Han Dug Yeo , Morgan Angharad R. , Fraser Alan G. , Lam Wen Jiun , Karunasinghe Nishi , Campbell Bobbi , Ferguson Lynnette R.
Published: September 2012

New Zealand has one of the highest incidence rates of Crohn’s Disease (CD), whilst the serum selenium status of New Zealanders is amongst the lowest in the world. A prospective case-control study in Auckland, New Zealand considered serum selenium as a potential CD risk factor. Serum selenium levels were significantly lower in CD patients compared to controls (101.8 ± 1.02 vs. 111.1 ± 1.01 ng/mL) (p = 5.91 × 10−8). Recent detailed studies in the United Kingdom have suggested an optimal serum level around 122 ng/mL, making the average CD patient in New Zealand selenium deficient. Of the 29 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) tested, 13 were found to significantly interact with serum selenium on CD. After adjustment for multiple testing, a significant interaction with serum selenium on CD was found for three SNPs, namely rs17529609 and rs7901303 in the gene SEPHS1, and rs1553153 in the gene SEPSECS. These three SNPs have not been reported elsewhere as being significantly associated with selenium or CD. It is unclear as to whether lower selenium levels are a cause or an effect of the disease.
Ecclesial Opposition to Large-Scale Mining on Samar: Neoliberalism Meets the Church of the Poor in a Wounded Land
Authors: Holden William Norman
Published: September 2012

In recent years, the government of the Philippines (adhering to the precepts of neoliberalism) has promoted large-scale mining as a method of stimulating economic development. Mining, an activity with substantial potential for environmental harm, is staunchly opposed by the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines, particularly on the island of Samar. The crux of the church’s opposition to mining are the adverse environmental consequences that mining may impose upon the rural poor who, engaging in subsistence agriculture and aquaculture, are vitally dependent upon access to natural resources. Should there be a mining-related environmental disruption, these people will be thrust from subsistence into destitution. The commitment of the church to act on behalf of the poor emanates from the conciliar documents of the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965), the fertile ground for liberation theology in the Philippines provided by the Marcos dictatorship (1972–1986), and by the commitment of the church in its 1992 Second Plenary Council to become a church of the poor. Samar contains quality mineralization set amid a wealth of biodiversity, grinding poverty, a simmering Maoist insurgency, and a vulnerability to natural hazards such as typhoons and El Niño induced drought. The opposition of the church to mining on Samar demonstrates the commitment of the church to be a church of the poor and how this praxis stands in contradistinction to the intellectual hegemony of neoliberalism.
A Synthetic Phased Array Surface Acoustic Wave Sensor for Quantifying Bolt Tension
Authors: Martinez Jairo , Sisman Alper , Onen Onursal , Velasquez Dean , Guldiken Rasim
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we report our findings on implementing a synthetic phased array surface acoustic wave sensor to quantify bolt tension. Maintaining proper bolt tension is important in many fields such as for ensuring safe operation of civil infrastructures. Significant advantages of this relatively simple methodology is its capability to assess bolt tension without any contact with the bolt, thus enabling measurement at inaccessible locations, multiple bolt measurement capability at a time, not requiring data collection during the installation and no calibration requirements. We performed detailed experiments on a custom-built flexible bench-top experimental setup consisting of 1018 steel plate of 12.7 mm (½ in) thickness, a 6.4 mm (¼ in) grade 8 bolt and a stainless steel washer with 19 mm (¾ in) of external diameter. Our results indicate that this method is not only capable of clearly distinguishing properly bolted joints from loosened joints but also capable of quantifying how loose the bolt actually is. We also conducted detailed signal-to-noise (SNR) analysis and showed that the SNR value for the entire bolt tension range was sufficient for image reconstruction.