bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of metals on blood oxidative stress biomarkers and acetylcholinesterase activity in dice snakes (Natrix tessellata) from Serbia
Authors: Gavric Jelena , Prokic Marko , Andjelkovic Marko , Despotovic Svetlana , Gavrilovic Branka , Borkovic-Mitic Slavica , Radovanovic Tijana , Tomovic Ljiljana , Pavlovic Sladjan , Saicic Zorica
Published: December 2014

The effects of waterborne metals in water on the activities of blood
copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione
peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione-S-transferase
(GST), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and on the concentrations of total
glutathione (GSH) and lipid peroxides (TBARS) in the blood of dice snakes
(Natrix tessellata) caught in Obedska Bara, Sebia (control area), with snakes
caught in Pancevacki Rit, a contaminated area in Serbia were examined. The
activities of CAT, GSH-Px, GR and AChE, and the concentration of TBARS were
significantly decreased, while GST activity and GSH concentration were
significantly increased in snakes from the contaminated area compared to
specimens from the control area. Significantly increased concentrations of
Al, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mn, Na, Ni and Zn in the water at the
contaminated area as compared to control area were detected. The metals Ag,
Bi, Cd, Co, Hg, In and Tl were not observed in any of the localities. Cr, Mo
and Pb were not detected at the control area but were observed at the
contaminated area. The concentrations of Sr were similar at both sites. The
concentration of Mg was 2-fold higher at the control site than at the
contaminated area. The obtained results show that most of the investigated
blood biomarkers correlate with concentrations of metals present in the
environment. These findings suggest that dice snakes are sensitive
bioindicator species for monitoring the effects of increased metal
concentrations in the environment.
Medical infrared thermal imaging of cats with hyperthyroidism
Authors: Waddell Robert E. , Marino Dominic J. , Loughin Catherine A. , Tumulty Joshua W. , Dewey Curtis W. , Sackman Joseph
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVE To determine the usefulness of medical infrared thermal imaging (MITI) as a screening tool for hyperthyroidism in cats, evaluate the need for hair clipping over the ventral aspect of the neck to achieve optimal images, and determine whether there is a change in thermal patterns at 1 and 3 months after radioactive sodium iodide I 131 treatment.

ANIMALS 17 cats with and 12 control cats without hyperthyroidism.

PROCEDURES All cats underwent MITI first with the hair present and then after the hair was clipped. Each cat with hyperthyroidism was subsequently appropriately treated SC with radioiodide; reevaluations, including MITI before and after hair clipping and measurement of serum thyroxine concentration, were performed 1 and 3 months after treatment.

RESULTS The MITI had 80.5% and 87.5% accuracy in differentiating hyperthyroid cats from clinically normal cats before and after the hair over the ventral aspect of the neck was clipped. Among cats with an initial serum thyroxine concentration > 4.0 μg/dL, the success rate for MITI-detected response to radioiodide treatment at the 1-month reevaluation was 92.86% in unshaved cats and 85.71% in shaved cats. The success rate for MITI-detected response to radioiodide treatment at the 3-month reevaluation was 100% in unshaved and shaved cats.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that MITI was successful in differentiating between hyperthyroid cats and clinically normal cats and identifying patients with thyroxine concentration within reference interval after radioactive sodium iodide I 131 treatment.
West Nile virus–specific immunoglobulin isotype responses in vaccinated and infected horses
Authors: Khatibzadeh Sarah M. , Gold Carvel B. , Keggan Alison E. , Perkins Gillian A. , Glaser Amy L , Dubovi Edward J. , Wagner Bettina
Published: December 2014

OBJECTIVE To compare antibody responses of horses naturally infected with West Nile virus (WNV) and those vaccinated against WNV, to identify whether vaccination interferes with the ability to diagnose WNV infection, and to determine the duration of antibody responses after vaccination.

SAMPLE Sera from horses naturally infected with WNV (n = 10) and adult WNV-naïve horses before and after vaccination with a live canarypox virus–vectored vaccine (7) or a killed virus vaccine (8).

PROCEDURES An established WNV IgM capture ELISA was used to measure IgM responses. Newly developed capture ELISAs were used to measure responses of 8 other WNV-specific immunoglobulin isotypes. A serum neutralization assay was used to determine anti-WNV antibody titers.

RESULTS WNV-specific IgM responses were typically detected in the sera of WNV-infected horses but not in sera of horses vaccinated against WNV. Natural infection with and vaccination against WNV induced an immunoglobulin response that was primarily composed of IgG1. West Nile virus–specific IgG1 was detected in the sera of most horses 14 days after vaccination. Serum anti-WNV IgG1 and neutralizing antibody responses induced by the killed-virus vaccines were higher and lasted longer than did those induced by the live canarypox virus–vectored vaccine.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE On the basis of these findings, we recommend that horses be vaccinated against WNV annually near the beginning of mosquito season, that both IgM and IgG1 responses against WNV be measured to distinguish between natural infection and vaccination, and that a WNV IgG1 ELISA be used to monitor anti-WNV antibodies titers in vaccinated horses.
Insights into assembly of the macromolecular inflammasome complex
Authors: Monie Tom P. , Boyle Joseph P.
Published: December 2014

Dramatic advances in our understanding of the ultrastructure of the inflammasome and the molecular interactions involved in its assembly have recently been made. The adaptor protein ASC has been proposed to display prion-like activity that results in the formation of filamentous structures in the cell. These filamentouos structures can subsequently become inflammatory themselves if released into the extracellular space and then phagocytosed. Various groups have now utilised a variety of microscopy and structural approaches in order to visualise components of, and indeed the entire, inflammasome in both endogenous and overexpression systems. In this brief review we draw upon these new pieces of work to describe how our understanding of the global structure of the inflammasome has progressed in light of these new observations. In particular we begin by providing an initial perspective on the possible formation of small circular, wheel-like, oligomers resembling apoptosomes. We then address the current view that inflammasomes result from the formation of a much larger complex which may involve polymeric filaments. We discuss how these developments fit with recent theories of inflammatory signalling, what questions these advances raise, and propose key areas for further investigation.
Ocular manifestation in Rheumatoid arthritis and Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kumar Prajjwal
Published: December 2014

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) are systemic autoimmune diseases characterized by synovitis and a wide range of extra articular manifestations. Ocular involvement occurs frequently in both diseases and it may affect all layers.Objectives: To identify different types of ocular involvement in cases of Adult Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) in a tertiary care hospital in Nepal and to compare the prevalence of those ocular findings among them.Methods: In this hospital based cross-sectional study, all cases referred from Orthopaedics department, Paediatrics department, Internal Medicine Rheumatology clinic of Kanti Children Hospital presenting to the OPD of BP Koirala Lions Centre for Ophthalmic Studies (BPKLCOS), cases admitted in eye ward and orthopaedics ward from 1st February 2009 to 31st July 2010 were included. Patients below 15 years of age were included in Juvenile Arthritis group. Detailed systemic and ocular history was taken as per the proforma and detailed ocular examination was carried out. Paired t-test was used as the statistical tool to find out the significant difference.Results: Among 50 cases included in the study the cases of Rheumatoid Arthritis were 32 (64%) and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis were 18 (36%). In the study, females (32) were predominant as compared to males (18). In RA group females predominated whereas in JRA group males predominated. Among 50 cases of arthritis 33 cases showed ocular involvement (25 from RA group and seven from JRA group). Among them, the most common ocular manifestation was dry eye 22% (mild, moderate and severe forms) followed by uveitis nine percent, corneal ulcers two percent, viral keratitis two percent, conjunctivitis two percent, episcleritis one percent and glaucoma one percent.Conclusion: Cases of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis should be subjected to regular ocular evaluation because of possibility of ocular involvement due to disease itself or the medication being used to treat them. Ocular manifestations due to RA and JRA are not uncommon in our population thus early identification of the disease and their proper management would possibly prevent visual loss in the majority of the cases.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11775Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page: 181-189
Rocuronium versus Vecuronium for laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Tabdar Sushila , Kadariya Ekraj
Published: December 2014

Background: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anaesthesia using Vecuronium is quite common these days. Some alarming complications like severe bradycardia and asystole after creation of carboperitoneum is not uncommon after its injection which is very stressful to both surgeons and anaesthesiologists. As an alternative, Rocuronium has been found safe in this regard till now used in many general anaesthesia requiring cases. So, it can be useful in laparoscopic cholecystectomy as well.Objective: To compare the haemodynamic, respiratory parameters and complications between Vecuronium and Rocuronium.Methods: In this randomised prospective double blind study conducted at Kathmandu Medical College from March 2013 to September 2013, a total of sixty patients of American Society of Anaesthesiologist (ASA) physical status I and II planned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were randomly divided into two groups of thirty each by envelope method, with one group receiving Rocuronium and the other group receiving Vecuronium as muscle relaxants. Group A received injection Pethidine 1 mg/kg, Propofol 2.5 mg/kg and Vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg for induction. Group B received injection Pethidine 1 mg/kg, Propofol 2.5 mg/kg and Rocuronium 0.6 mg/kg for induction. After intubation the whole anaesthesia was maintained with oxygen, air, halothane and intermittent positive pressure ventilation. Intraoperative monitoring used were Pulse rate (PR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), arterial Oxygen saturation (SpO2), end tidal Carbondioxide (ETCO2), electro cardiography (ECG) and peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS). PR, MAP, SpO2, ETCO2, ECG were recorded before muscle relaxant, one minute after muscle relaxant, before intubation, one minute after intubation, before skin incision, one minute after skin incision, before carboperitonium, one minute after carboperitoneum, before extubation and one minute after extubation. Carboperitoneum if occurred any were also noted. Statistical analysis was done by using SPSS 19 verson. Student t test, Fisher’s exact test and Chi square test were used for the final analysis where P value <0.05 was considered significant.Result: Using Vecuronium as a muscle relaxant for laparoscopic cholecystectomy resulted in haemodynamic alteration intraoperatively by a significant reduction of PR one minute after carboperitoneum (62.80±11.25 versus 87.23±14.35 in Rocuronium group) where p<0.05. Bradycardia requiring Atropine was significant in vecuronium group with p<0.05.Conclusion: Rocuronium is less likely to cause bradycardia as compared to Vecuronium in laparoscopic cholecystectomy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11776Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page: 190-195
Enterocutaneous fistula: a rare complication following total abdominal hysterectomy
Authors: Shakya Archana , Thapa Meena , Padhye Saraswati M
Published: December 2014

Postoperative enterocutaneous fistula can occur after any gastrointestinal surgery. It is however uncommon following gynaecologic procedures. Although adjacent organ fistulae such as the rectovaginal and vesico-vaginal fistulae could be seen after hysterectomy, enterocutaneous fistulae are rarely encountered. We report a case of enterocutaneous fistula on twenty second post-operative day following total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salphingo-oopherectomywith partial omentectomy. The patient was managed conservatively which resulted in spontaneous closure of the fistula.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11791Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page : 205-207
Case report on Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: Shrestha Sushma , Shrestha Sabina , Ojha Anil Raj
Published: December 2014

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex is a rare genetic disorder inherited in autosomal dominant fashion. It is a multisystem disorder involving brain, skin, kidneys, heart, eyes and lungs which becomes apparent only in late childhood, limiting the usefulness of early diagnosis in infancy. Here, we report a case of an 11 year male child with tuberous sclerosis.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11798Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page : 208-210
Conservative Management of Uterovesical Fistula Following Primary Caesarean Section
Authors: Bastakoti Rashmi , Saha Rachana
Published: December 2014

Uterovesical fistula is an abnormal communication between uterine cavity and the bladder. It is a rare type of fistula accounting for four percent of all cases of urogenital fistula. However the incidence of uterovesical fistula has been rising due to increasing incidence of lower segment caesarean section. Uterovesical fistula is seen more after repeated caesarean section rather than primary section. This is a case report of a primipara with uterovesical fistula following primary emergency Caesarean section on her 12th postoperative day for foetal distress. She was managed conservatively using IV antibiotics and catheterization for six weeks.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i4.11799Journal of Kathmandu Medical CollegeVol. 2, No. 4, Issue 6, Oct.-Dec., 2013Page: 211-213
Augmented Stochastic Multiple Imputation Model for Airport Pavement Missing Data Imputation
Authors: Farhan J. , Fwa T. F.
Published: December 2014

This paper presents a research study to handle the problem of missing data in airport pavement management systems. This study was a continuation of an earlier study addressing the same concern. In the earlier study, a stochastic multiple imputation (SMI) approach was adopted to overcome major limitations associated with conventional data imputation methods. The SMI approach considered the variation of multiple plausible imputations and obtained an unbiased estimate in replacing a missing data value. This approach was found to outperform the three most commonly used imputation methods for missing data handling in pavement management: the linear interpolation method, the substitution by mean method, and the regression method. However, the SMI approach estimated missing data values by using purely statistical techniques, without making use of any unique characteristics of pavement performance data. The present study explored the possibility of further improving the data imputation process by exploiting parallel pavement performance-related data available from pavement condition and performance surveys of airfield pavements. An augmented stochastic multiple imputation (ASMI) approach was proposed to incorporate auxiliary parameters to aid in reducing uncertainty and improving prediction performance of runway pavement condition data. Pavement friction data were used as illustration; the related parameter data included aircraft landing volume, rainfall, and temperature. This study showed that the proposed ASMI approach provided an analytically meaningful method from a pavement engineering point of view that can further improve the quality and reliability of imputing missing data for airport pavement management systems.
Applying an Ecohealth Perspective in a State of the Environment Report: Experiences of a Local Public Health Unit in Canada
Authors: Lam Steven , Leffley Alanna , Cole Donald
Published: December 2014

We applied an Ecohealth perspective into a State of the Environment report for Grey Bruce Health Unit and summarized environmental and health data relevant for public health practice. We aimed for comprehensiveness in our data compilation, including: standard media categories (e.g., air, water, land); and ecological indicators (e.g., vectors, forests, wetlands). Data sources included both primary (collected by an organization) and secondary (assembled by others). We organized indicators with the Driving forces-Pressure-State-Exposure-Effect-Action (DPSEEA) framework created by the World Health Organization. Indicators of air, water and land quality generally appeared to point towards a healthy state. Vector-borne diseases remained low. Forests and wetlands appeared to be in good condition, however more monitoring data was needed to determine trends in their ecological indicators. Data were not available on biodiversity and fish conditions. The results of our application of the DPSEEA framework suggest that routinely collected environmental and health data can be structured into the framework, though challenges arose due to gaps in data availability, particularly for social and gender analyses. Ecohealth approaches had legitimacy with broader healthy community partners but applying such approaches was a complex undertaking.
Mechanical Properties of Magnesium-Rare Earth Alloy Systems: A Review
Authors: Tekumalla Sravya , Seetharaman Sankaranarayanan , Almajid Abdulhakim , Gupta Manoj
Published: December 2014

Magnesium-rare earth based alloys are increasingly being investigated due to the formation of highly stable strengthening phases, activation of additional deformation modes and improvement in mechanical properties. Several investigations have been done to study the effect of rare earths when they are alloyed to pure magnesium and other Mg alloys. In this review, the mechanical properties of the previously investigated different magnesium-rare earth based binary alloys, ternary alloys and other higher alloys with more than three alloying elements are presented.
EDTA a Novel Inducer of Pisatin, a Phytoalexin Indicator of the Non-Host Resistance in Peas
Authors: Hadwiger Lee , Tanaka Kiwamu
Published: December 2014

Pea pod endocarp suppresses the growth of an inappropriate fungus or non-pathogen by generating a “non-host resistance response” that completely suppresses growth of the challenging fungus within 6 h. Most of the components of this resistance response including pisatin production can be elicited by an extensive number of both biotic and abiotic inducers. Thus this phytoalexin serves as an indicator to be used in evaluating the chemical properties of inducers that can initiate the resistance response. Many of the pisatin inducers are reported to interact with DNA and potentially cause DNA damage. Here we propose that EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) is an elicitor to evoke non-host resistance in plants. EDTA is manufactured as a chelating agent, however at low concentration it is a strong elicitor, inducing the phytoalexin pisatin, cellular DNA damage and defense-responsive genes. It is capable of activating complete resistance in peas against a pea pathogen. Since there is also an accompanying fragmentation of pea DNA and alteration in the size of pea nuclei, the potential biochemical insult as a metal chelator may not be its primary action. The potential effects of EDTA on the structure of DNA within pea chromatin may assist the transcription of plant defense genes.
Toxicity of Fatty Acid Autoxidation Products: Highest Anti-Microbial Toxicity in the Initial Oxidative Phase
Authors: Matikainen Jorma , Lehtinen Markku , Pelttari Eila , Elo Hannu
Published: December 2014

The autoxidation-degradation processes of polyunsaturated fatty acids give rise to toxic products, and the relative toxicity at different stages of the process is of great interest. We report here that when methyl α-linolenate is exposed to sunlight and air, its antimicrobial activity against yeasts and bacteria (as measured by agar diffusion) reaches its maximum during the early oxidative phase when addition of oxygen occurs and the mass increases drastically. Before exposure, the activity is minimal or zero, but it increases rapidly during the first days of the test, simultaneously with the increase of the mass of the material, and begins to decrease while the mass is still increasing and before the mass begins to decrease due to degradation and formation of volatile compounds. Thus, the products formed during the degradation phase of the process are far less toxic to the test organisms than the compounds formed at the early stages when addition of oxygen occurs with maximal rate.
In Silico Affinity Profiling of Neuroactive Polyphenols for Post-Traumatic Calpain Inactivation: A Molecular Docking and Atomistic Simulation Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Choonara Yahya , Pillay Viness
Published: December 2014

Calcium-activated nonlysosomal neutral proteases, calpains, are believed to be early mediators of neuronal damage associated with neuron death and axonal degeneration after traumatic neural injuries. In this study, a library of biologically active small molecular weight calpain inhibitors was used for model validation and inhibition site recognition. Subsequently, two natural neuroactive polyphenols, curcumin and quercetin, were tested for their sensitivity and activity towards calpain’s proteolytic sequence and compared with the known calpain inhibitors via detailed molecular mechanics (MM), molecular dynamics (MD), and docking simulations. The MM and MD energy profiles (SJA6017 < AK275 < AK295 < PD151746 < quercetin < leupeptin < PD150606 < curcumin < ALLN < ALLM < MDL-28170 < calpeptin) and the docking analysis (AK275 < AK295 < PD151746 < ALLN < PD150606 < curcumin < leupeptin < quercetin < calpeptin < SJA6017 < MDL-28170 < ALLM) demonstrated that polyphenols conferred comparable calpain inhibition profiling. The modeling paradigm used in this study provides the first detailed account of corroboration of enzyme inhibition efficacy of calpain inhibitors and the respective calpain–calpain inhibitor molecular complexes’ energetic landscape and in addition stimulates the polyphenol bioactive paradigm for post-SCI intervention with implications reaching to experimental in vitro, in cyto, and in vivo studies.
Special Issue on Second Generation General System Theory
Authors: Minati Gianfranco , Pessa Eliano
Published: December 2014

The aim of this editorial is to briefly introduce some papers of different nature presented by the contributors to the special issue on “Second Generation General System Theory”. These contributions have been focused on the need for building a post-Bertalanffy Systemics, based on new problems, representations, and approaches to complexity. Furthermore, such new Systemics is expected to be able to theoretically generalize new related systemic concepts and approaches introduced by different disciplines. Such a theoretical generalization is going to coincide with a new kind of interdisciplinarity. The latter should substitute the classical one, based on considering problems and solutions within a discipline as equivalent to problems and solutions within another one. This equivalence was used within the framework of general systemic concepts like Anticipation, Completeness, Feedback, Finality, Forecast, Separability, Openness, and Reversibility. The contributions contained in this special issue constitute very interesting examples of new approaches and of their possibilities of theoretical generalization. Therefore, the issue itself can be considered as a window on the new Systemics and its challenges.
Functional Regeneration of Supraspinal Connections in a Patient with Transected Spinal Cord following Transplantation of Bulbar Olfactory Ensheathing Cells with Peripheral Nerve Bridging
Authors: Tabakow Pawel , Raisman Geoffrey , Fortuna Wojciech , Czyz Marcin , Huber Juliusz , Li Daqing , Szewczyk Pawel , Okurowski Stefan , Miedzybrodzki Ryszard , Czapiga Bogdan , Salomon Beata , Halon Agnieszka , Li Ying , Lipiec Joanna , Kulczyk Aleksandra , Jarmundowicz Wlodzimierz
Published: December 2014

Treatment of patients sustaining a complete spinal cord injury remains an unsolved clinical problem because of the lack of spontaneous regeneration of injured central axons. A 38-year-old man sustained traumatic transection of the thoracic spinal cord at upper vertebral level Th9. At 21 months after injury, the patient presented symptoms of a clinically complete spinal cord injury (American Spinal Injury Association class A-ASIA A). One of the patient's olfactory bulbs was removed and used to derive a culture containing olfactory ensheathing cells and olfactory nerve fibroblasts. Following resection of the glial scar, the cultured cells were transplanted into the spinal cord stumps above and below the injury and the 8-mm gap bridged by four strips of autologous sural nerve. The patient underwent an intense pre- and postoperative neurorehabilitation program. No adverse effects were seen at 19 months postoperatively, and unexpectedly, the removal of the olfactory bulb did not lead to persistent unilateral anosmia. The patient improved from ASIA A to ASIA C. There was improved trunk stability, partial recovery of the voluntary movements of the lower extremities, and an increase of the muscle mass in the left thigh, as well as partial recovery of superficial and deep sensation. There was also some indication of improved visceral sensation and improved vascular autoregulation in the left lower limb. The pattern of recovery suggests functional regeneration of both efferent and afferent long-distance fibers. Imaging confirmed that the grafts had bridged the left side of the spinal cord, where the majority of the nerve grafts were implanted, and neurophysiological examinations confirmed the restitution of the integrity of the corticospinal tracts and the voluntary character of recorded muscle contractions. To our knowledge, this is the first clinical indication of the beneficial effects of transplanted autologous bulbar cells.
ON THE SOLUTION OF ENERGY BALANCE EQUATION SYSTEM TO PREDICT TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION IN THE BUILDING ELEMENTS WITH VENTILATED AIR GAP
Authors: Monstvilas Edmundas , Banionis Karolis , Poderytė Jurga , Bliūdžius Raimondas , Burlingis Arūnas
Published: December 2014

The article presents the solution of heat balance equation system, describing heat exchange processes in ventilated envelopes, which was applied to derive formulas for the calculation of temperatures in the ventilated layers of the envelopes. The accurateness of the formulas was assessed by experimental research and analysis of the calculation results. During the process of heat exchange balance equation solution, the equations were simplified by introducing the following restriction into the derived formulas: they may only be applied for the ventilated envelopes with steel or similar coatings as their external layers, i.e. coatings having small heat capacity and minor difference between the external and internal surface temperatures. The derived formulas enable the calculation of the temperatures of the ventilated envelopes in the distance which does not exceed a half of the ventilated air gap length measuring from the air entrance into the gap. However, this restriction does not impede the estimation of the average thermal indicators of the ventilated envelopes.
The Effect of Recombinant Human Growth Hormone with or without Rosiglitazone on Hepatic Fat Content in HIV-1-Infected Individuals: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Kotler Donald P , He Qing , Engelson Ellen S , Albu Jeanine B , Glesby Marshall J
Published: December 2014

Background

Hepatic fat is related to insulin resistance (IR) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in HIV+ and uninfected individuals. Growth hormone (GH) reduces VAT but increases IR. We evaluated the effects of recombinant human GH (rhGH) and rosiglitazone (Rosi) on hepatic fat in a substudy of a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

HIV+ subjects with abdominal obesity and IR (QUICKI≤0.33) were randomized to rhGH 3 mg daily, Rosi 4 mg twice daily, the combination or double placebo. Hepatic fat was measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy, visceral fat by MRI and IR by frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance tests at baseline and week 12.

Results

31 subjects were studied at both time points. Significant correlations between hepatic fat and VAT (r=0.41; P=0.02) and QUICKI (r=0.39; P<0.05) were seen at baseline. IR rose with rhGH but not Rosi. When rhGH treatment groups were combined, hepatic fat expressed as percentage change decreased significantly ( P<0.05) but did not change in Rosi ( P=0.71). There were no correlations between changes in hepatic fat and VAT ( P=0.4) or QUICKI ( P=0.6). In a substudy of 21 subjects, a trend was noticed between changes in hepatic fat and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1; P=0.09).

Conclusions

Hepatic fat correlates significantly with both VAT and IR, but changes in hepatic fat do not correlate with changes in VAT and glucose metabolism. Hepatic fat content is reduced by rhGH but Rosi has no effect. These results suggest an independent effect of GH or IGF-1 on hepatic fat. The study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00130286).
Le sociolinguistique comme contexte et le sémiotique comme construction, ou vice-versa : « Who's the a rtist ? »
Authors: Nicolaï Robert
Published: December 2014

Je reviens ici sur la notion gumperzienne de contextualization cues (indices de contextualisation) et sur la dynamique entre signes « symboliques » et signes « indexicaux », essentielle pour l’émergence du sens et des formes, afin de la saisir dans son évidence et dans sa complexité. Après avoir reconnu l’importance de la focalisation sur les indexicaux dans les procès de mise en signification, je développe une autre argumentation en me focalisant non plus sur les signes indexicaux, mais sur les signes linguistiques. Un élargissement conceptuel est ainsi proposé pour questionner le langage en tant que dynamique (plutôt que la dynamique du langage) en y intégrant certaines récentes réflexions sur la construction du sémiotique (Nicolaï 2011). In fine , il s’agit d’œuvrer pour mieux rendre compte à la fois de la mise en signification en contexte de ce qui s’énonce et se manifeste, et de la construction du sens à travers la fabrication et/ou la transformation des formes. Double procès dont Gumperz a fortement contribué à développer le premier pan, et dont nous sommes inéluctablement partie prenante.
John J. Gumperz, un dialectologue anthropologue pour notre temps Entretien entre Jacky Simonin et Josiane Boutet
Authors: Simonin Jacky , Boutet Josiane
Published: December 2014

Jacky Simonin a fait partie dans les années 1970 d’une équipe de recherche à l’université de Villetaneuse - Paris-13 qui s’est intéressée très tôt aux travaux de John J. Gumperz, et plus largement à la sociologie des interactions sociales et à la sociolinguistique nord-américaines. Jacky Simonin analyse ici comment il a reçu et fait travailler dans ses propres travaux les notions de la sociolinguistique interactionnelle interprétative de John Gumperz. Cet entretien est conduit par Josiane Boutet qui, bien qu’appartenant à la même génération des universitaires post-68, n’a pas connu le même parcours intellectuel. C’est donc un dialogue entre deux sociolinguistes et deux itinéraires dans un même champ disciplinaire.
Early Development of Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
Authors: Klein Donald F. , Arden Peter C.
Published: December 2014

This article reviews the history of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) from their initial synthesis in the early 1900s until the present. The recognition of their potential psychiatric benefits came when the only available effective treatment for depressed patients was seizure therapy. The introduction of medications to treat depressive illness heralded an exciting new era of psychopharmacology; however, reports of paroxysmal hypertensive crises dampened enthusiasm. Dietary restrictions and drug interactions with MAOIs are now defined, but apprehension and a lack of familiarity cause infrequent prescribing of MAOIs despite their powerful effect across a wide range of psychiatric disorders. As demonstrated at Columbia University’s Depression Evaluation Service, founded in 1977 by the late Frederic M. Quitkin, MD, MAOIs remain effective agents that should be considered for depressed or anxious patients who have not improved sufficiently following at least one prior treatment attempt with a different class of medication. The use of moclobemide and the selegiline transdermal system as primary treatments requires clarification.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2014;44(12):563–566.]
Web Platform for Public E-Participation Management
Authors: Quental Carlos , Gouveia Luis Borges
Published: December 2014

The e-participation can be considered an area under constant focus. This paper presents a brief analysis of e-participation and e-democracy, and proposes a platform for electronic participation based on social media principles, designed to gather teachers and unions in a shared deliberative space. Interaction and collaboration are supported through questions, answers, suggestions, comments, votes, surveys and live debates. This proposal is intended to narrow the communication gap between teachers and unions and encourage teachers to become involved and participate in educational debates and important topics about the profession. The platform presented enables effective participation in formal and informal decision-making processes via the Internet, either as standalone or widgets with full integration into any Website. It is under constant development and will be improved along with this project. The actors in this study were chosen from the National Federation of Teachers due to its representativeness regarding associate teachers and provide an opportunity to assess the platform potential to support participation in a union context. The platform will be used in a trade union linked to teachers of several grade levels to understand their participation in this organization.
A Pesquisa em Tomada de Decisão Estratégica no Alto Escalão: evolução e base intelectual do tema
Authors: Serra Bernardo Paraiso de Campos , Serra Fernando Ribeiro , Tomei Patricia
Published: December 2014

Este artigo tem como objetivo compreender a estrutura intelectual que conecta teorias e autores que pesquisam a tomada de decisão estratégica do alto escalão e propor uma agenda para pesquisa futura no tema. Utilizou-se para este fim de pesquisa bibliométrica de citação e cocitação dos artigos publicados em periódicos internacionais sobre tomada de decisão, identificando os trabalhos mais referenciados, as publicações mais relevantes e mostrando as relações conceituais entre os trabalhos que fundamentam o tema e identificando tendências dos estudos sobre o tema. Foram identificados três clusters teóricos: as características do Top Management Team (TMT) e como elas influenciam a tomada de decisão; fatores ambientais e sua influcência na tomada de decisão, juntamente com a exposição de modelos e processos de tomada de decisão; conflito e consenso na tomada de decisão. A discussão permitiu ilustrar o atual estado do tema e suas lacunas e apresentar sugestões para pesquisas futuras.
Análise das Avaliações dos Concursos Públicos Realizados pelas IFES para o Cargo de Secretário-Executivo sob a Ótica da Gestão por Competência
Authors: Leal Fernanda Geremias , Silva Ana Corina Faustino da , Dalmau Marcos Baptista Lopez
Published: December 2014

Este artigo apresenta uma análise das avaliações dos concursos públicos realizados pelas Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior (IFES), no período de 2010 a 2014, para o provimento do cargo de secretário-executivo. O objetivo foi compreender se as provas aplicadas aos candidatos têm contemplado conteúdos constantes na descrição do cargo, leis de regulamentação da profissão, diretrizes e grades curriculares dos cursos superiores de Secretariado Executivo, de modo que selecionem profissionais com competências para atender às necessidades dessas instituições. Os dados, obtidos por meio de uma análise predominantemente quantitativa, demonstraram que as IFES não têm considerado a formação do secretário-executivo de maneira significativa na construção dessas provas e tampouco têm elaborado questões diretamente associadas à descrição do cargo. Concluiu-se que, de modo geral, os concursos abrangidos pelo recorte da pesquisa não mensuraram os conhecimentos requeridos para o bom desempenho das funções desses profissionais, assim como não utilizaram instrumentos que permitissem avaliar habilidades e comportamentos.
Empreendedorismo Feminino: dificuldades relatadas em histórias de vida
Authors: Alperstedt Graziela Dias , Ferreira Juliane Borges , Serafim Maurício Custódio
Published: December 2014

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar os problemas encontrados ao longo do processo empreendedor, a partir das histórias de vida das participantes do Prêmio SEBRAE Mulher de Negócios em Santa Catarina. Para tanto, analisou-se as histórias empreendedoras das 86 participantes do Prêmio edição de 2010. Esses relatos foram analisados de forma interpretativa. Destaca-se, como dificuldades encontradas no processo empreendedor, a percepção da falta de confiança nelas depositada e o conflito pessoal, familiar e empresarial, sendo estas últimas dimensões conflitantes na vida dessas mulheres, pois concorrem por sua atenção. São apontados, ainda, aspectos relativos à gerência do negócio, sendo as questões financeiras e de mercado as mais graves.
Teoria da Estruturação Forte Aplicada aos Estudos Organizacionais
Authors: Peres Jr. Miguel Rivera , Pereira José Roberto
Published: December 2014

A Teoria da Estruturação do sociólogo Anthony Giddens tem, ao longo dos últimos anos, sido utilizada em diversos trabalhos em uma gama extensa de áreas de estudo, e, dentre tais áreas, destacam-se os estudos organizacionais. A despeito dessa intensa utilização, a Teoria da Estruturação foi alvo de várias críticas e revisões, como a feita por Stones (2005), que redundou na proposição da “Teoria da Estruturação Forte” (Strong Structuration Theory). Este artigo objetiva apresentar as principais concepções da Teoria da Estruturação Forte, cotejando-as com os fundamentos da Teoria da Estruturação e fornecendo insights iniciais para investigações em estudos organizacionais, a partir dessa perspectiva teórica. Para o alcance desse objetivo, foi feita revisão bibliográfica crítica das duas teorias que, ao final, possibilitou a indicação de algumas possibilidades de investigações no âmbito organizacional com a utilização da Teoria da Estruturação Forte, em particular a partir da ontologia, in situ, proposta por Stones (2005).
A Influência do “Mundo dos Negócios” na Governança Ambiental Global
Authors: Rampazo Adriana Vinholi , Ichikawa Elisa Yoshie , Carrieri Alexandre de Pádua
Published: December 2014

Desde a Rio 92 cresce a participação das organizações não ambientais e do setor privado nas conferências ambientais promovidas pela Organizações das Nações Unidas (ONU) e, portanto, na governança ambiental global. Dessa forma, as normas, regras e procedimentos que regulam a proteção ambiental em todo mundo acabam sendo influenciados por organizações como o Banco Mundial, bancos privados e outras empresas privadas dos mais diversos setores. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste estudo é discorrer sobre a inserção das organizações não ambientais e do setor privado na governança ambiental global nos últimos anos. Para tanto, desenvolveu-se um estudo bibliográfico e documental baseado em artigos científicos, institucionais e jornalísticos, além de documentos oficiais. No final do trabalho foi possível constatar que as organizações não ambientais e do setor privado, por meio de lobby, do seu poder estrutural e das redes que formam (associações empresariais), estão cada vez mais inseridas nas discussões ambientais e, assim, acabam por influenciar as decisões tomadas.
Spatial variability of Soil Nutrients Using Geospatial Techniques: A case study in soils of Sanwer Tehsil of Indore district of Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Tagore G. S. , Bairagi G. D. , Sharma R. , Verma P. K.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. A study was conducted to explore the spatial variability of major soil nutrients in a soybean grown region of Malwa plateau. From the study area, one hundred sixty two surface soil samples were collected by a random sampling strategy using GPS. Then soil physico-chemical properties i.e., pH, EC, organic carbon, soil available nutrients (N, P, K, S and Zn) were measured in laboratory. After data normalization, classical and geo-statistical analyses were used to describe soil properties and spatial correlation of soil characteristics. Spatial variability of soil physico-chemical properties was quantified through semi-variogram analysis and the respective surface maps were prepared through ordinary Kriging. Exponential model fits well with experimental semi-variogram of pH, EC, OC, available N, P, K, S and Zn. pH, EC, OC, N, P, and K has displayed moderate spatial dependence whereas S and Zn showed weak spatial dependence. Cross validation of kriged map shows that spatial prediction of soil nutrients using semi-variogram parameters is better than assuming mean of observed value for any un-sampled location. Therefore it is a suitable alternative method for accurate estimation of chemical properties of soil in un-sampled positions as compared to direct measurement which has time and costs concerned.
The Role of Investment Banking in M&A Operations: Empiric Pre and Post Lehman Evidence
Authors: Capizzi Vincenzo , Giovannini Renato
Published: December 2014

The role of investment banks in M&A operations is analyzed on the basis of empiric evidence. In particular, to point out the variations in the impact of the certification effect which can be ascribed to investment banks, the relationship between the value created for the shareholders in companies involved in special underwriting operations and the reputation of the banks appointed to act as advisors is examined. The analysis, which uses an original measuring system in order to assess and classify the reputation variable, focuses on transactions that have taken place between listed companies in two time frames, symmetrical to each other, specifically pre and post the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy. The total sample is composed of 229 transactions, divided into 161 and 68 observations, respectively pre and post Lehman. The result is that in the post Lehman period, unlike the preceding time frame, for which no significant empiric evidence is found, the wealth of the shareholders (of both targets and acquirers) is significantly influenced by the reputation of the investment banks which have acted as advisors. This indicates that, subsequent to the shock of the Lehman Brothers collapse, the certifying effect of the investment banks takes on an important role in the shareholders' choice.
Dissolved Oxygen Sensors Predict Seasonal Manganese Increases
Authors: Malkov Vadim B.
Published: December 2014

The experience of one water utility shows how online dissolved oxygen sensors can help identify seasonal manganese increases before manganese becomes a big problem.
Recent USEPA Actions Affect US Water Systems
Authors: Roberson Alan
Published: December 2014

Even in a year of ongoing gridlock in Congress, the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) hasn't been idle. From cybersecurity to clean power, hydraulic fracturing chemicals to risk management plans, the agency's diverse actions may have wide‐reaching impact.
Atypical presentation of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL): a case report
Authors: Mastropietro Fabiola , Piccini Alessandra , Lucignani Giulia , Rubino Alfonso , Fiermonte Giancarlo
Published: December 2014

Lymphomas infrequently cause peripheral nerve complications. These syndromes mostly occur by direct compression or infiltration of nerves (neurolymphomatosis), but may also be due to a remote effect as paraneoplastic syndromes, neurotoxic complications of chemotherapy, antibody-mediated or autoimmune mechanisms.We report the case of a 60-year-old woman who presented with a complex peripheral nervous system involvement as initial manifestation of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). This case sheds light on “protean” mechanism of peripheral nerve complications during the course of NHL and related diagnostic dilemma.
Diagnosis and treatment of headache probably attributed to cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Iannacchero Rosario , Costa Amerigo , Sergi Antonio , Squillace Aida , Vescio Giuseppe , Cannistrà Umberto
Published: December 2014

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a rare condition whose most common and sometimes only symptom is headache. Alas, diagnosis and treatment of CVST is often delayed or overlooked because of its high clinical variability. Using guidelines advices in detecting warning signs or symptoms of secondary headaches might ease the diagnosis of CVST.The article presents the case of a woman who is in treatment for chronic migraine and assessed for secondary headache in a multidisciplinary outpatient headache program. Alert symptoms like sudden worsening headache presentation, along with anamnestic cues, prompted neuroimaging that detected left transverse sinus thrombosis whose onset was difficult to date.