bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Depressive and Other Psychiatric Disorders on Anticoagulation Control in a Pharmacist-Managed Anticoagulation Clinic
Authors: Maki Erik D. , Miesner Andrew R. , Grady Sarah E. , Marschall Leah M.
Published: July 2014

Background: The impact of psychiatric disorders on International Normalized Ratio (INR) control and adverse events for patients receiving warfarin has not been fully elucidated. Objective: To determine the effect of depressive and other psychiatric disorders on anticoagulation control in a pharmacist-managed anticoagulation clinic. Methods: A retrospective chart review evaluated outcomes of patients with no history of psychiatric disorders and compare it with that of patients with either a history of depression or any form of psychiatric disorder. Data was obtained from patient medical records over a 24-month period. The primary outcome was a comparison of time in therapeutic range, calculated using 3 separate methods (percentage of INRs in therapeutic range, a modified Rosendaal’s linear interpolation, and mean INR in goal). Results: A total of 151 patients met the inclusion criteria (control = 79, psychiatric disorders = 72 patients). Control patients had a significantly greater proportion of INRs in the goal range compared with either the depression or psychiatric disorders groups (control, 55.7%; depression, 43.5%; psychiatric, 45.8%). Utilizing the Rosendaal’s method, patients with psychiatric disorders were in the goal range significantly less often than those in the control group (53.0% vs 61.3%). No differences were seen when adjusting for multiple comparisons or when comparing the control and depression groups (54.5% vs 61.3%). There was no difference between the groups when comparing percentages of patients with a mean INR in their goal range. Conclusions: Patients with psychiatric disorders who take warfarin may spend less time in the therapeutic range.
Comparison of Dexmedetomidine and Propofol for Conscious Sedation in Awake Craniotomy
Authors: Shen She-liang , Zheng Jia-yin , Zhang Jun , Wang Wen-yuan , Jin Tao , Zhu Jing , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2014

Background: It has been reported that dexmedetomidine (DEX) can be used for conscious sedation in awake craniotomy, but few data exist to compare DEX versus propofol (PRO). Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of DEX versus PRO for conscious sedation in awake craniotomy. Methods: Thirty patients of American Society of Anesthesiologists grade I-II scheduled for awake craniotomy, were randomized into 2 groups each containing 15 subjects. Group D received DEX and group P received PRO. Two minutes after tracheal intubation (T1), PRO (target plasma concentration) was titrated down to 1 to 4 µg/mL in group P. In group D, PRO was discontinued and DEX was administered 1.0 µg/kg followed by a maintenance dose of 0.2 to 0.7 µg/kg/h. The surgeon preset the anticipated awake point-in-time (T0) preoperatively. Ten minutes before T0 (T3), DEX was titrated down to 0.2 µg/kg/h in group D, PRO was discontinued and normal saline (placebo) 5 mL/h was infused in group P. Arousal time, quality of revival and adverse events during the awake period, degree of satisfaction from surgeons and patients were recorded. Results: Arousal time was significantly shorter in group D than in group P ( P < .001). The quality of revival during the awake period in group D was similar to that of group P ( P = .68). The degree of satisfaction of surgeons was significantly higher in group D than in group P ( P < .001), but no difference was found between the 2 groups with respect to patient satisfaction ( P = .80). There was no difference between the 2 groups in the incidence of adverse events during the awake period ( P > .05). Conclusions: Either DEX or PRO can be effectively and safely used for conscious sedation in awake craniotomy. Comparing the two, DEX produced a shorter arousal time and a higher degree of surgeon satisfaction.
Ketamine Continuous Infusion for Refractory Status Epilepticus in a Patient With Anticonvulsant Hypersensitivity Syndrome
Authors: Esaian Diana , Joset Danielle , Lazarovits Candace , Dugan Patricia C. , Fridman David
Published: July 2014

Objective: Refractory status epilepticus (RSE) requires aggressive management with multiple antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) often requiring the initiation of continuous infusions of propofol, midazolam, or pentobarbital to achieve adequate control in addition to intermittent agents. Ketamine has been implicated in several case reports as a successful agent for treating RSE given that it blocks the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, which is overexpressed in prolonged status epilepticus. Case Summary: We describe a previously healthy 27-year-old woman who presented with prolonged RSE requiring the initiation of multiple AEDs, including high-dose propofol and midazolam continuous infusions. As a result of hypotension from propofol and inadequate seizure control with midazolam, the patient was successfully transitioned to a pentobarbital infusion in combination with multiple AEDs. Although the patient achieved control of her RSE, her course was complicated by the development of an anticonvulsant hypersensitivity syndrome (AHS) with transaminitis. Limited with the options of AED that could have been used, it was decided to initiate the patient on a continuous ketamine infusion plus midazolam and slowly wean the patient off pentobarbital as well as to avoid further use of phenytoin and phenobarbital. Discussion: The patient was successfully transitioned off pentobarbital to a ketamine infusion plus midazolam with complete seizure control after several dose escalations. Her AHS and transaminitis resolved on a ketamine infusion for a total of 12 days, and she was successfully discharged from the hospital after 60 days in the ICU. Conclusion: This is the first case report to describe a successful transition to a ketamine infusion in a patient with AHS and transaminitis.
Tofacitinib
Authors: Vyas Deepti , O’Dell Kate M. , Bandy Jason L. , Boyce Eric G.
Published: July 2014

Objective: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety, dosage administration, and adverse effects of tofacitinib for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment. Data Sources: Primary sources of information were obtained from clinical studies, which were identified through PubMed (1966 to June 2013) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970 to March 2013) using terms: tofacitinib, tasocitinib, CP-690550, and CP-690,550. Information was used from tofacitinib package insert, guidelines, and published abstracts from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European League Against Rheumatism. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Data search was limited to include publications in English language and from human subjects. Data Synthesis: Tofacitinib is the first oral Janus kinase inhibitor indicated for treatment of moderate to severe RA. Tofacitinib demonstrated efficacy and safety comparable to other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Tofacitinib was efficacious in RA patients, indicated by achievements of ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70 criteria. Similar improvements were observed in patients who met remission criteria based on the Disease Activity Scores 28 criteria and quality of life as measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI). Tofacitinib was associated with infections and malignancies; and elevations in serum creatinine and lipids were observed. Drug interactions with inducers and inhibitors of the cytochrome P-450 3A4 and 2C9 isoenzymes were reported. Conclusions: Tofacitinib is an oral treatment option for RA patients who have inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate. Postmarket surveillance will provide further insight to tofacitinib’s role in RA therapy, especially in patients who may require different types of combination therapy with DMARDS.
New Approaches to Reduce Staphylococcus Aureus Nosocomial Infection Rates: Treating S. Aureus Nasal Carriage
Authors: Perl Trish M , Golub Jonathan E
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND:

Nosocomial infections cause significant patient morbidity and mortality. The 2.5 million nosocomial infections that occur each year cost the US healthcare system $5 million to $10 million. Staphylococcus aureus has long been recognized as an important pathogen in human disease and is the most common cause of nosocomial infections.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the epidemiology of S. aureus nosocomial infections that are attributable to patients' endogenous colonization.

DATA SOURCES

Review of the English-language literature and a MEDLINE search (as of September 1997).

DATA SYNTHESIS:

The ecologic niche of S. aureus is the anterior nares. The prevalence of S. aureus nasal carriage is approximately 20–25%, but varies among different populations, and is influenced by age, underlying illness, race, certain behaviors, and the environment in which the person lives or works. The link between S. aureus nasal carriage and development of subsequent S. aureus infections has been established in patients on hemodialysis, on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and those undergoing surgery. S. aureus nasal carriers have a two- to tenfold increased risk of developing S. aureus surgical site or intravenous catheter infections. Thirty percent to 100% of S. aureus infections are due to endogenous flora and infecting strains were genetically identical to nasal strains. Three treatment strategies may eliminate nasal carriage: locally applied antibiotics or disinfectants, systemic antibiotics, and bacterial interference. Among these strategies, locally applied or systemic antibiotics are most commonly used. Nasal ointments or sprays and oral antibiotics have variable efficacy and their use frequently results in antimicrobial resistance among S. aureus strains. Of the commonly used agents, mupirocin (pseudomonic acid) ointment has been shown to be 97% effective in reducing S. aureus nasal carriage. However, resistance occurs when the ointment has been applied for a prolonged period over large surface areas.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the importance of S. aureus nosocomial infections and the increased risk of S. aureus nasal carriage in patients with nosocomial infections, investigators need to study cost-effective strategies to prevent certain types of nosocomial infections or nosocomial infections that occur in specific settings. One potential strategy is to decrease S. aureus nasal carriage among certain patient populations.
A Comparison of Antihypertensive Medication Utilization before and after Guideline Changes Using the Department of Defense Prescription Database
Authors: Okano Gary J , Rascati Karen L , Wilson James P , Remund Daniel D
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE:

To determine changes in the proportion of antihypertensive medication utilization, distributed by medication classes, associated with the Fifth Report of the Joint National Committee (JNC V) guideline changes and the Department of Defense Pharmacoeconomic Center's recommendations to follow JNC V guidelines in presumed newly treated hypertensive patients.

DESIGN:

A 43-month, longitudinal, retrospective analysis using data from the Department of Defense Uniformed Services Prescription Database.

SETTING:

Seven outpatient US military sites.

PATIENTS:

Eligible patients (n = 7277) included those from seven military sites, aged 20–49 years, who were: (1) active-duty members of the US Armed Forces, (2) active-duty members' family members, (3) retired members of the US Armed Forces, and (4) US Armed Forces retired members' family members.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE:

Proportion of antihypertensive medication utilization, distributed by medication class over the 43-month study period.

METHODOLOGY:

Segmented time series analysis was used for each of the following four medication classes: angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-blockers, calcium-channel blockers, and diuretics.

RESULTS:

Segmented time series analyses revealed no significant differences in utilization of the four medication classes that corresponded to published guidelines outlining initial antihypertensive therapy.

CONCLUSIONS:

It appeared that JNC V guidelines and recommendations of the Pharmacoeconomic Center to follow JNC V had little effect on the utilization of prescription medication classes studied.
Parents’ Self-Reported Attachment Styles
Authors: Jones Jason D. , Cassidy Jude , Shaver Phillip R.
Published: July 2014

For decades, attachment scholars have been investigating how parents’ adult attachment orientations relate to the ways in which they parent. Traditionally, this research has been conducted by developmental and clinical psychologists who typically employ the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) to measure adult attachment. However, dating back to the mid-1990s, social and personality psychologists have been investigating how self-reported adult attachment styles relate to various facets of parenting. The literature on self-reported attachment and parenting has received less attention than AAI research on the same topic and, to date, there is no comprehensive review of this literature. In this article, we review more than 60 studies of the links between self-reported attachment styles and parenting, integrate the findings to reach general conclusions, discuss unresolved questions, and suggest future directions. Finally, we discuss the potential benefits to the study of parenting of collaborations among researchers from the developmental and social attachment research traditions.
Acquisition of formulaic sequences in intensive and regular EFL programmes
Authors: Serrano Raquel , Stengers Helene , Housen Alex
Published: July 2014

This paper aims to analyse the role of time concentration of instructional hours on the acquisition of formulaic sequences in English as a foreign language (EFL). Two programme types that offer the same amount of hours of instruction are considered: intensive (110 hours/1 month) and regular (110 hours/7 months). The EFL learners under study are adults at the beginner ( N=35), intermediate ( N=44) and advanced levels ( N=45). A group of native English speakers ( N=12) served as a benchmark. The focus of this study is on the number and range of formulaic sequences the participants used while performing an oral narrative. The results of the statistical analyses show a slight advantage for the learners in the intensive programme, especially at the intermediate level, both in terms of frequency and range of formulaic sequences produced. Moreover, results suggest that there are still marked differences between even the advanced EFL learners in our sample and the native speaker benchmarks, again both in terms of number and range of formulaic sequences.
Sulforaphane Ameliorates Neurobehavioral Deficits and Protects the Brain From Amyloid β Deposits and Peroxidation in Mice With Alzheimer-Like Lesions
Authors: Zhang Rui , Miao Qian-Wei , Zhu Chun-Xiao , Zhao Yue , Liu Li , Yang Jun , An Li
Published: July 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common neurodegenerative disease in the elderly individuals and its effective therapies are still unavailable. This study was designed to investigate the neuroprotection of sulforaphane (SFN) in AD-lesion mice induced by combined administration of d-galactose and aluminium. Results showed that SFN ameliorated spatial cognitive impairment and locomotor activity decrease in Morris water maze and open field test, respectively. And attenuated numbers of amyloid β (Aβ) plaques in both hippocampus and cerebral cortex of AD-lesion mice were detected by immunohistochemistry. According to spectrophotometry and quantitative reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction results, a significant increase in carbonyl group level and obvious decreases in both activity and messenger RNA expression of glutathione peroxidase were found in brain of AD-lesion mice compared with control, but not in SFN-treated AD-lesion mice. In conclusion, SFN ameliorates neurobehavioral deficits and protects the brain from Aβ deposits and peroxidation in mice with Alzheimer-like lesions, suggesting SFN is likely a potential phytochemical to be used in AD therapeutics.
Well-ordered polymer nano-fibers with self-cleaning property by disturbing crystallization process
Authors: Yang Qin , Luo Zhuangzhu , Tan Sheng , Luo Yimin , Wang Yunjiao , Zhang Zhaozhu , Liu Weimin
Published: July 2014

Bionic self-cleaning surfaces with well-ordered polymer nano-fibers are firstly fabricated by disturbing crystallization during one-step coating-curing process. Orderly thin (100 nm) and long (5–10 μm) polymer nano-fibers with a certain direction are fabricated by external macroscopic force (Fblow) interference introduced by H2gas flow, leading to superior superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle (WCA) of 170° and a water sliding angle (WSA) of 0-1°. In contrast, nano-wires and nano-bridges (1–8 μm in length/10-80 nm in width) are generated by “spinning/stretching” under internal microscopic force (FT) interference due to significant temperature difference in the non-uniform cooling medium. The findings provide a novel theoretical basis for controllable polymer “bionic lotus” surface and will further promote practical application in many engineering fields such as drag-reduction and anti-icing.
Biomechanics of TGFβ‐induced epithelial‐mesenchymal transition: implications for fibrosis and cancer
Authors: O’Connor Joseph W , Gomez Esther W
Published: July 2014

Fibrosis, a disease that results in loss of organ function, contributes to a significant number of deaths worldwide and sustained fibrotic activation has been suggested to increase the risk of developing cancer in a variety of tissues. Fibrogenesis and tumor progression are regulated in part through the activation and activity of myofibroblasts. Increasing evidence links myofibroblasts found within fibrotic lesions and the tumor microenvironment to a process termed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), a phenotypic change in which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal characteristics. EMT can be stimulated by soluble signals, including transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β, and recent studies have identified a role for mechanical cues in directing EMT. In this review, we describe the role that EMT plays in fibrogenesis and in the progression of cancer, with particular emphasis placed on biophysical signaling mechanisms that control the EMT program. We further describe specific TGFβ‐induced intracellular signaling cascades that are affected by cell‐ and tissue‐level mechanics. Finally, we highlight the implications of mechanical induction of EMT on the development of treatments and targeted intervention strategies for fibrosis and cancer.
Cardiac Biomarkers and Health-Related Quality of Life in New Hemodialysis Patients without Symptomatic Cardiac Disease
Authors: Williams Christopher E , Curtis Bryan M , Randell Edward W , Foley Robert N , Parfrey Patrick S
Published: July 2014

Background:

Health Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) is impaired in hemodialysis patients and cardiac biomarkers are elevated, but their relationship is uncertain.

Objectives:

To determine whether the cardiac biomarkers, troponin T and N terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), predict deterioration in the physical domains of HRQOL.

Design:

A prospective cohort study of patients in a randomized controlled clinical trial of correction of anemia with erythropoietin.

Setting:

Multiple hemodialysis centers located throughout Canada and Europe.

Participants:

Patients who started maintenance hemodialysis within the previous 3–18 months, with no clinical evidence or prior history of symptomatic cardiac failure or ischemic heart disease, and left ventricular volume < 100 ml/m2.

Measurements:

Predictor: Baseline concentrations of Troponin T and NT-proBNP. Outcomes: Physical function and vitality scores using the SF-36 questionnaire and fatigue scores using the FACIT questionnaire at baseline and after 24, 48, and 96 weeks follow-up.

Methods:

Univariate analysis of the association between baseline variables and baseline HRQOL scores and change in scores over time was undertaken using linear regression. Multivariate models were created using multiple linear regression, and it was pre-specified that these include the variables which were associated with the outcome at a p < 0.05 in the univariate regression.

Results:

Baseline median (interquartile range) physical function score was 70 (50–85), vitality 55 (40–75), and fatigue 73 (58–86). The 75th percentile for Troponin T was 0.05 ng/mL and for NT-proBNP 652 ng/mL. High Troponin T levels were significantly associated with deterioration in the 3 physical domains, independent of other risk factors, whereas high NT-proBNP were not associated. In multivariate models baseline Troponin T > 0.05 ng/mL were significantly associated with the change from baseline to 96 weeks follow-up for SF-36 vitality and FACIT-fatigue scores, and approached statistical significance for SF-36 physical function (0.056).

Limitations:

Not possible to confirm whether Troponin T associations were independent of subsequent cardiac events.

Conclusions:

In hemodialysis patients without prior symptomatic cardiac disease and without a dilated left ventricle at baseline, elevated baseline Troponin T levels, but not NT-pro BNP, were independently associated with deterioration in the physical domains of HRQOL.
Induction of bone formation in abdominal implants constituted by collagen sponges embedded with plant-based human transforming growth factor family proteins in ectopic dog model
Authors: Jacinto-Tinajero Juan Carlos , Ascencio Daniel , Marquina Brenda , Barrios-Payán Jorge , Gutierrez Maria Concepcion , Lim Miguel Gomez , Pando Rogelio Hernández
Published: July 2014

Background

Trauma, osteomyelitis, bone tumour resections and congenital deformities are the main causes of bone deficiency in which autologous graft is the preferred treatment, but usually the bone supplies are limited.

Methods

An experimental model of heterotopic bone formation in the subcutaneous abdominal area of dogs was developed. This model consists in omentum wrapped implants constituted by collagen type 1 sponges embedded with demineralized bone powder, calcium cloride, thrombin and platelet rich plasma; the implant is totally converted in trabecular bone after four months of implantation. This model was improved by accelerating bone production, after the isolation of the most conspicuous histological constituents (inflammatory, bone and adipose tissues) by laser microdisection and purified from them RNA that was used to determine by RT-PCR the gene expression kinetics of the most important growth bone factors. Then, the most abundant and rapidly synthesized factors were produced by genetic engineering in tobacco plants.

Results

Bone morphogenetic proteins 2 and 7 and transforming growth factor-β1were the most rapidly and highly synthesized factors, and they were efficiently produced in a genetic engineering plant based system in tobacco leaves. Their incorporation as recombinant proteins in the scaffold collagen sponge induced in just one month mature heterotopic bone.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates for the first time that this plant system is able to produce recombinant bone growth factors in high amount and at low cost, and they were highly efficient to rapidly induce bone formation in abdominal implants potentially useful for autotransplantation.
Navigating the cell: how motors function in vivo
Authors: De La Cruz Enrique M. , Holzbaur Erika L. F.
Published: July 2014

The Company of Biologists Workshop entitled ‘Navigating the Cell: How Motors Function in vivo’ was held in March 2014 at Wiston House in Steyning, West Sussex, UK. The meeting was an opportunity for a diverse group of experts in the biology and physics of cytoskeletal dynamics, and molecular motors to come together in a setting that promoted scientific interactions and the development of new collaborations. Here, we summarize the highlights of the meeting, one of which was the unique organizational principle that promoted cross-fertilization of ideas and approaches among the participants.
The RPD Myth…
Authors: Esbensen Kim H. , Geladi Paul , Larsen Anders
Published: July 2014

For a long time, the Mythbusters have harboured a grudge about the ubiquitous use of and blind reliance on the RPD statistic as a tell-all index regarding the quality of any NIR calibration. This feeling is substantiated by the many reviews we, and many others, have performed for the NIR community and other journals over more than the last decade. There are apparently very few reservations regarding this institution: if only RPD>3… all is well with prediction performance!
Transportation Analysis of Dry Tree Semisubmersible
Authors: Sundaravadivelu Ranganathan , Kanotra Rahul , Srinivasan Nagan
Published: July 2014

With the advancement of oil & gas into ultra deepwater, the need for drilling and production platforms has becomes more acute. The dry tree semisubmersible can be used for direct vertical access into reservoirs from deepwater since it offers small in-place motions, large open deck areas, dockside commissioning and minimum offshore hookup. The direct access allows the operator to drill, complete and work over the well directly from the same platform. The drytree semisubmersible consists of a keel tank which can be telescoped up and down based on the requirement of the platform. The keel tank is fully telescoped down while in operating condition and telescoped up while in transportation condition. The transportation analysis of a drytree semisubmersible using the linear radiation, diffraction panel program WAMIT is presented in this paper. Parametric studies were carried out in WAMIT by varying the size of the keel tank by considering the keel tank size as 80X80m, 91.5X91.5m and 100X100m. The Case 2 in which the keel tank dimensions were 91.5×91.5 m was found to be most appropriate of all, as the response for it was lower compared to other cases and also the structure was good from stability point of view. It was found that the heave and response were high only beyond 15 seconds wave period thus making transportation operations safe, as transportation is carried out in sea states 5 and 6 which have wave periods less than 14 seconds. Also the pitch RAO was found to be very low thus posing no threat in transportation mode.
Effect of Water Depth on the Performance of Intelligent Computing Models in Predicting Wave Transmission of Floating Pipe Breakwater
Authors: Patil S. G. , Mandal S. , Hegde A. V.
Published: July 2014

Understanding the physics of complex system plays an important role in selection of data for training intelligent computing models. Based on the physics of the wave transmission of Horizontally Interlaced Multilayer Moored Floating Pipe Breakwater, a laboratory experiment carried out at Department of Applied Mechanics, National Institute of Technology Surathkal, India, authors felt that relative depth of water ( d/ L) may have effect on the performance of intelligent computing models. In the present paper, d/ L is taken as one of the inputs to study the performance of ANN and Genetic Algorithm based Support Vector Machine Regression (GA-SVMR) model which was ignored by the authors in their previous studies. The performances of present ANN-1 and GA-SVMR-1 models are compared with the previous ANN and GA-SVMR models. The results revealed that there is a slight improvement in the performance of present ANN-1 and GA-SVMR-1 models in terms of Correlation Coefficient.
Institutional Barriers for Food Innovation: A Study of the Brazilian Functional Food Industry
Authors: Oliveira Guilherme Rodrigues , Vieira Luciana Marques , Barcellos Marcia Dutra de , Hope Alexia
Published: July 2014

The regulation of functional food (FF) is essential to develop innovation in food industry and to ensure consumers' health. This study aims to identify if and how the institutional environment affects the FF R&D initiatives in Brazil. Data were collected through personal in-depth interviews with FF chain members (experts; industries; regulatory agency) and analyzed through content analysis. Three main agents were identified in the FF R&D initiatives: food manufacturer, functional component suppliers and universities. Results show a negative impact of resolutions proposed by the regulatory agency in these initiatives, but also highlight the importance of institutional factors as drivers to the innovation process. A clearer legislation is needed in order to facilitate innovations in the food sector. Moreover, the selection of the most promising partnerships can help to minimize uncertainties involved in those initiatives. Further researches on measuring the regulation impact on the innovation initiatives are suggested.DOI: 10.12660/joscmv7n1p1-14URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/joscmv7n1p1-14
Logistics Service Providers In Brazil: a study of geographic clustering from the perspective of logistics chain integration
Authors: Meirelles Dimária Silva e , Costa Mario Fernandes da , Thomaz José Carlos
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study is to identify geographical clusters of logistics service provider companies in Brazil. The main contribution is a vision of these clusters based on the articulation of the various activities which make up the the logistic chain. Indicators of spatial concentration (Herfindahl index) and regional specialisations (Location Quotient) were used in order to identify geographic clustering. Information about the number of companies, their size and people working in every location in the country, were obtained through the Annual Register of Social Information (RAIS) from the Employment & Salaries Ministry and the Ministry of Labour and Employment (MTE). Due to changes in the classification of these activities in 2007, it isn't possible to carry out a broader time based analysis, which would allow us to identify the advantages of geographic clustering in a more consistent manner. We concluded that there are 922 spatial concentration of logistics service providers in Brazil. Around 41% of spatial concentration are located in the Southeast of Brazil and 33% in the South. In these regions the logistics infra-structure (roads, access to docks and airports) is more developed and also there are other logistics service chain providers.DOI: 10.12660/joscmv7n1p47-67URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.12660/joscmv7n1p47-67
Advancing the activity cliff concept, part II
Authors: Stumpfe Dagmar , de la Vega de León Antonio , Dimova Dilyana , Bajorath Jürgen
Published: July 2014

We present a follow up contribution to further complement a previous commentary on the activity cliff concept and recent advances in activity cliff research. Activity cliffs have originally been defined as pairs of structurally similar compounds that display a large difference in potency against a given target. For medicinal chemistry, activity cliffs are of high interest because structure-activity relationship (SAR) determinants can often be deduced from them. Herein, we present up-to-date results of systematic analyses of the ligand efficiency and lipophilic efficiency relationships between activity cliff-forming compounds, which further increase their attractiveness for the practice of medicinal chemistry. In addition, we summarize the results of a new analysis of coordinated activity cliffs and clusters they form. Taken together, these findings considerably add to our evaluation and current understanding of the activity cliff concept. The results should be viewed in light of the previous commentary article.
Methodology and practice of forecasting the needs of the regional labour market for young specialists (on the example of Orenburg region)
Authors: Никулина  , Nikulina Yu.
Published: July 2014

The relevance of work due to the fact that at present one of the important tasks is to study the question of demand whether graduates on the labour market. This issue is a challenge, which needs monitoring, a comprehensive analysis of supply and demand of the regional labour market, as well as forecasting the needs of the labour market for young specialists for the needs of the economy. The article contains analysis of the current practices of monitoring and forecasting of the needs of the regional labour market Orenburg region in young specialists and the estimation of efficiency of work in this direction. Recommendations for improving policies in the field of forecasting of labour Orenburg region in young specialists taking into account foreign experience and Russian practice.
Functions and the role of labor agency in social welfare and personnel management in Germany (through the example of immigrants)
Authors: Кудайберген  , Kudaybergen Pirimkul
Published: July 2014

The paper considers functions of the Labor Agency (Agency), which is an important mechanism for workforce management processes and procedures in the context of socially-oriented German economy. Agency activities are analyzed and how it practically implements social welfare principles (as exemplified by immigrants from CSI, Asian and African countries). The author operates based on his research and personal experience, gained while working in various German universities and companies. Special attention is given to how the Agency’s Center of Employment provide unemployed with unemployment relief and workplaces. Practical measures conducive to unemployment reduction are highlighted. It is emphasized that while Germany has powerful system of social welfare and sufficient unemployment reliefs, payroll taxes are also relatively high. Consequently, many immigrants try their hard to avoid working and prefer to live on the dole. Along with that the author reveals the reasons and ways through which German state officials discriminate immigrants thus favoring natives of Germany.

Nevertheless, given one million vacancies to be filled throughout the country, many Germans reject the German tax system, emigrate and work successfully abroad (e.g., 65% of doctors in Switzerland are expatriate Germans). The paper specially emphasizes, that the majority of immigrants to Germany are poorly educated, poorly civilized Asians and Africans with extra families, while among native Germans single-child families prevail and highly qualified specialists do prevail among emigrants. Such social discrepancy arose discontent among German burghers which results in annual neo-Nazi anti-German marches in towns and villages. In conclusion the author provides recommendations for immigrants and Russians, willing to work in German, on how to integrate in the German society and adapt to labor market conditions of Germany.
The discipline of economics of human resourceds management: object of study, subject of study, academic content and coals (lecture one)
Authors: Кибанов  , Kibanov Ardalon
Published: July 2014

The paper presents Lecture One, devoted to discussing the object of study, the subject of study, academic content and goals of the «Economics of Human Resources Management (HRM)» discipline. Moreover, the Lecture deals with basic terms (definitions of the course), the hottest and urgent issues and importance of Economics of HRM discipline, its place and role in the context of economic and basic sciences within the field of «Human Resources Management» of higher professional education.
Sports team as a small group. Part 2
Authors: Аленуров  , Alenurov E.
Published: July 2014

The problems of personnel management on the example of studying sports team as a small group. The history of the concept of a small group and prove that sports team meets all the basic features of a small group that can increase its functionality by taking into account the effects of a small group. Highlights the problem of formal and informal groups to sports teams. Emphasizes that the study of the problems of personnel management is helpful to refer to the experience gained in the formation and management of sports teams. Great value of this experience is that the sport is any idea immediately reflected in the sports scores, and thus its effectiveness can be quickly and objectively assess. Especially for team sports such as football. Since sports teams consist of small groups to achieve their high functionality, you need a good understanding of the features of the emergence and development of formal and informal groups. In any sports team, there are two types of groups: formal and informal. Both of these types of groups are important for both its functionality and its impact on its functionality. The most effective team — the one whose size corresponds to its objectives. It should be composed of people with dissimilar personality traits, and whose norms and values contribute to achieving the goals of the organization. In addition, a very important task is to create team spirit, where a healthy level of conflict, and where having a high status group members do not dominate. In the way of team building can stand such serious problems as the lack of effective business activities in general, inadequate moral and psychological mood or low level of professionalism. Creating and managing small groups, the creation of sports teams — a very long and complicated process that requires great effort and knowledge on the part of all involved.
Creating the space of truth in the make-believe world of the theatre: An interview with Peter Sellars
Authors: Fricker Karen
Published: July 2014

Peter Sellars is one of the most celebrated directors of opera, theatre and festivals in the contemporary West. He is well known for his adaptations of classic works in response to the political, social and economic conditions at the time of staging, while his activist politics and lack of reverence for hierarchical institutions frequently polarizes response to his work. In a spirited interview, conducted by academic and critic Karen Fricker in July 2013 as part of the Leverhulme Olympic Talks on Theatre and Adaptation, Sellars discusses his background in puppet theatre, his early career at Harvard University and the American National Theatre, and several of his important productions including Ajax (an adaptation of Sophocles by Robert Auletta, American National Theatre, 1986); Children of Herakles (Euripides, premiered at the Ruhr Triennale, 2002); and Desdemona, a music theatre piece created with writer Toni Morrison and singer Rokia Traoré in 2012.
Reviews
Authors: Crook Tim , Raw Laurence
Published: July 2014

Theater of the Mind: Imagination, Aesthetics, and American Radio Drama, Neil Verma (2012) Chicago & London: The University of Chicago Press, 296 pp., ISBN: p/bk 978-0226853512, £21.50, h/bk 978-0226853505, £63.00

Science Fiction, Film, Television, and Adaptation: Across the Screens, J. P. Telotte and Gerald Duchovnay (eds) (2012) London and New York: Routledge, 212 pp., ISBN 9780415887199, h/bk, Price £88.99
Conflict and Cooperation and the Evolution of the Nascent Nile Basin Regime
Authors: Tesfaye Aaron
Published: July 2014

The Nile River and its tributaries have been critical to the survival of the people who live within their reach since antiquity. Political power, the survival of societies—indeed, life itself—has been determined by access to and control of the river's waters. The political history of the region can be traced according to who controlled how much of the river. In modern times interstate relations have been and still are governed by the amount of influence each country has over the Nile and its tributaries. Although the Nile River stretches for more than 4,000 miles, its waters are a finite resource, and now 11 countries and millions of people depend on the waters for their livelihoods. Creating a basin-wide regime to manage the resource to the satisfaction of all is very important and a daunting task.
Lantus, the first peakless basal insulin analogue: 10 years of clinical experience in children and adolescents
Authors: Kuraeva Tamara Leonidovna
Published: July 2014

This review analyses existing literature, including authors' own data, describing the results of clinical trials which assess safety and efficacy of insulin Glargine (Lantus?) in children and adolescents, as well as peculiar features of T1D management in this age group, including the challenge of reducing the rate of hypoglycemia while maintaining adequate glycemic control. The article also discusses various issues in T1D management in children and adolescents, including the role of glycemic control in development of vascular complications, hypoglycemia and the variability of glycemia. The data confirm the high efficacy of Lantus insulin in respect to metabolic control, including the decrease in the incidence of hypoglycemia and in variability of glycemic profile, the safety of its clinical use in treatment of children, including young children, and adolescents, as well as its ability to improve the quality of life for patients and their parents.
Ser adolescente e ser mãe: Investigação da gravidez adolescente em adolescentes brasileiras e portuguesas
Authors: Schirò Eva Diniz Bensaja dei , Koller Sílvia Helena
Published: July 2014

O presente artigo teve como objectivo investigar qualitativamente as características associadas à gravidez durante a adolescência num grupo de adolescentes brasileiras (n=4) e portuguesas (n=4).Recorreu-se ao estudo de casos múltiplos (N=8) em que se utilizou uma entrevista semi-estruturada. A entrevista teve por objectivo investigar várias dimensões de vida da adolescente. No presente artigo foram seleccionadas as seguintes variáveis: contexto em que surgiu a gravidez, relação com o companheiro, vida actual, relação com a escola, perspectiva de planos futuros. As entrevistas foram submetidas a uma análise de conteúdo com acordo inter-juízes. A análise das respostas revelou que o aparecimento da gravidez, nas adolescentes entrevistadas, tende a associar-se ao contexto social de desenvolvimento, marcado pelo abandono escolar e falta de perspectivas para o futuro. Relativamente à gravidez verificou-se que ocorre, predominantemente, em relações consideradas estáveis. Foram relatadas tentativas de mudança de vida decorrentes da gravidez, como o desejo de voltar a estudar, por exemplo. Não foram registadas diferenças nas falas das participantes dos dois países investigados. A fragilidade do contexto de desenvolvimento, marcado pelo insucesso escolar e pela falta de perspectivas de futuro, foi identificada como um elemento transcultural. A identificação das características psicossociais das adolescentes que engravidam foi considerada importante, permitindo o aprimoramento de programas de prevenção junto ao grupo de adolescentes.
Agradecimentos
Authors: --- ---
Published: July 2014

Agradecimentos aos revisores do Vol. 29
Qualidade de vida e complicações crónicas da diabetes
Authors: Silva Isabel , Pais-Ribeiro José , Cardoso Helena , Ramos Helena
Published: July 2014

O objectivo do presente estudo é analisar o impacto da presença de complicações crónicas específicas na qualidade de vida de indivíduos com diabetes. Foi avaliada uma amostra de conveniência de 316 sujeitos com diabetes, dos quais 44,6% do sexo masculino; com idades compreendidas entre os 16 e os 84 anos (M= 48,39; DP=16,90); 41,8% (n=132) apresenta diagnóstico de diabetes tipo 1 e a duração da doença varia entre 4 meses e 43 anos (M=13,66; DP=9,32). Destes doentes, 59,8% sofre de complicações crónicas da diabetes. Os resultados sugerem que, entre os indivíduos com diabetes, aqueles que sofrem de complicações crónicas demonstram ter uma qualidade de vida inferior à dos que não sofrem de sequelas. Esta diferença verifica-se quando são analisadas especificamente a microangiopatia, catarata, macroangiopatia, neuropatia autonómica (nomeadamente, disfunção sexual), doença cardíaca coronária, antecedentes de acidente vascular cerebral, hipertensão arterial e doença arterial periférica. Todavia, quando controlada a gravidade de complicações como a retinopatia e a nefropatia, constata-se que não existe uma relação linear entre a gravidade da complicação e o impacto na qualidade de vida, uma vez que, por vezes, doentes com níveis mais graves da complicação apresentam uma qualidade de vida superior à de indivíduos com níveis menos graves desta.
Goal instability, self-esteem, and vocational identity of high school Portuguese students
Authors: Santos Paulo Jorge
Published: July 2014

According to the self-psychology of Heinz Kohut, development of a healthy narcissism that is reflected in a secure sense of self, permits individuals to set and pursue meaningful life goals and maintain a sense ofwell-being, particularly in periods of transition and change. Based on this perspective, the primary purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of goal instability and self-esteem to the vocational identity of Portuguese high school students using a sample of 375 individuals. Additionally, the effect of gender and age on vocational identity was assessed. A regression equation accounted for 32% of the variance of the dependent variable with goal instability emerging as the strongest predictor. Implications for career theory and counseling are discussed.
Depressão no bebé
Authors: Fornelos Margarida , Rodrigues Eduarda , Gonçalves Maria José
Published: July 2014

Os autores apresentam uma revisão critica do conceito de depressão na primeira infância com referência a sintomatologia, etiopatogenia e prognóstico. O estudo baseia-se na análise de 20 casos com o diagnóstico de depressão, que tiveram seguimento terapêutico na UPI nos anos de 1994 e 1995. Em todos os casos foram estudados os seguintes parâmetros: Motivo da consulta, Idade da criança, Início do sintoma, Perturbação do meio/parentalidade, Origem do pedido da consulta. Identificaram-se dois subgrupos que diferiam entre si pelo carácter agudo ou crónico da perturbação do meio, pelo tipo de associação de sintomas e pela idade da criança na altura do pedido de consulta. A diferente evolução terapêutica nestes dois subgrupos é ilustrada com a apresentação de dois casos clínicos.
A dissociação dos efeitos das expectativas nas impressões e memória de pessoas e grupos: O Modelo TRAP
Authors: Garcia-Marques Leonel , Hamilton David L. , Garrido Margarida , Jerónimo Rita
Published: July 2014

O presente artigo apresenta um novo modelo de memória de pessoas e grupos – o Modelo TRAP (Twofold Retrieval by Associative Pathways). O Modelo TRAP foi primordialmente desenvolvimento para resolver a aparente discrepância entre efeitos de congruência tipicamente obtidos em medidas de julgamento e de incongruência tipicamente obtidos em medidas de recordação livre. O Modelo distingue entre dois modos de recuperação – o modo heurístico e exaustivo. Essa distinção permite resolver a discrepância frequentemente obtida entre medidas de julgamento e de recordação.

O desenvolvimento do Modelo TRAP permitiu quer encontrar novas variáveis capazes de dissociar os dois modos de recuperação quer construir novas hipóteses sobre o processo de formação de impressões. O presente artigo discute os pressupostos teóricos do modelo e apresenta os principais resultados empíricos até hoje obtidos.
Apoio à família e formação parental
Authors: Brandão Coutinho Maria Teresa
Published: July 2014

Enquadrado nos modelos mais actualizados, em termos de Intervenção Precoce, o envolvimento activo dos pais, no processo de intervenção com os seus filhos, surge como uma forma inequívoca de potenciar e maximizar o desenvolvimento da criança. Pese emborao facto de tais modelos apontarem para as necessidades de colaboração estreita e nivelamento das relações entre pais e profissionais (através do estabelecimento de parcerias), tal só acontecerá, de facto, se os pais melhorarem o seu nível de informação, sobre temáticas relacionadas com a saúde, desenvolvimento e aprendizagem do seu filho. A criação deste tipo de oportunidades parece-nos extremamente útil e importante para os pais, permitindo-lhes sentirem-se mais informados, e eventualmente, mais competentes, em matérias que lhes interessam particularmente (não ficando determinados tipos de informação na posse exclusiva dos técnicos).Os Programas de Formação de Pais surgem como uma excelente oportunidade de melhorar os níveis de informação e as competências educativas parentais, surgindo em vários estudos, associados a resultados bastantes positivos relativamente ao desempenho da função parental. Procedemos ao enquadramento conceptual e caracterização de um programa de formação destinado a pais de crianças com Trissomia 21 com idades compreendidas entre os 6 meses e os 5 anos, desenvolvido e aplicado na região de Lisboa.