bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability of Vascular Access Site Bruise Measurement
Authors: Cosman Tammy L. , Arthur Heather M. , Bryant-Lukosius Denise , Strachan Patricia H.
Published: May 2015

Background and Purpose: Vascular access site (VAS) bruising is common following invasive cardiac procedures. The extent of VAS bruising is underreported because of the lack of reliable measurement methods. This study examined the reliability of linear measurement and planimetry to measure VAS bruise size. Methods: There were 40 participants with VAS bruising after invasive cardiac procedures who completed VAS bruise measurement. Participants, a principal investigator, and a research assistant completed measurements independently. Inter-rater reliability was determined using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), 2-way random effects model. Results: The ICC for linear measurement and planimetry was high (.929 and .914 respectively). Both methods were reliable measures of VAS bruise size. Conclusions: Linear measurement or planimetry can be used with confidence to measure VAS bruising in clinical and research contexts.
Performance Characterization and Optimization of Cement Systems for Thermally Stimulated Wells
Authors: Chartier Mark A. , Thompson Scott , Bordieanu Marius , Bustamante Giovanni , Saunders J. Ryan , Kaiser Trent M.
Published: May 2015

Cement is critical to well integrity. It provides hydraulic isolation, preventing fluid flow between producing zones, ground water aquifers, and the surface. In steam stimulated wells, such as for Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) or Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS), the heat-up period places severe mechanical loading on the cement sheath. Heat is transferred from high temperature steam, through completion strings and annular fluids, to the casing, cement and formation. Thermal expansion of the casing combined with axial constraint make radial expansion of the casing the most severe in the energy industry. Furthermore, with constrained expansion of the cement, the range of deformations that must be accommodated by the cement sheath while maintaining isolation is challenging. These deformations can cause shear or tensile failure of the cement and result in leakage paths through the cement (e.g. cracks or global changes in cement permeability), or leave a micro-annulus when recovery has been completed and thermal operations halt.

This paper describes the impact of key thermal and mechanical properties on the structural performance of cement blends in thermally stimulated wells. The work is based on laboratory testing of thermal cement blends and the use of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to examine cement performance under operating conditions. The findings provide insight into important cement behaviours that impact longterm integrity of cement and highlight the significance of conducting tests under field representative conditions. Results indicate the importance of compressive strengths, flexibility, and shrinkage/expansion characteristics to ensure the cement sheath remains structurally intact during initial heat-up.
Effects of Aporrectodea Caliginosa on Soil Hydraulic Properties and Solute Dispersivity
Authors: McDaniel Jacob P. , Butters Gregory , Barbarick Kenneth A. , Stromberger Mary E.
Published: May 2015

Earthworms have historically been absent from dryland agricultural fields in eastern Colorado, but their invasion or purposeful introduction may affect water retention and plant nutrient availability in soil. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of Aporrectodea caliginosa on hydraulic properties and solute dispersivity in soil from eastern Colorado (Adena [Ustic Paleargid]–Colby [Aridic Ustorthents] complex) that was amended with biosolids. Columns of repacked soil (50 cm in depth) were incubated with or without A. caliginosa for a period of 16 wk, after which columns were divided into 15‐cm depth increments to determine soil–water retention curves and solute breakthrough curves (BTCs) under unsaturated and saturated conditions. Aporrectodea caliginosa and their burrows and casts altered soil water retention curves in the top 30 cm of the soil, where A. caliginosa were most active. Earthworms also affected BTCs within the top 30 cm of soil resulting in an approximately 35‐fold increase in solute dispersivity under saturated flow conditions and a 4‐ to 10‐fold increase with unsaturated flow conditions. Overall, A. caliginosa increased soil residual water content by 33 to 41% and altered soil physical properties so that water flow became more tortuous, solute dispersion increased under saturated and unsaturated conditions, and soil drained over a larger range of tensions. In conclusion, A. caliginosa has the potential to reduce upward losses of water, increase water retention, and increase dispersion of agricultural chemicals applied to the soil surface.
Which Soil Carbon Fraction is the Best for Assessing Management Differences? A Statistical Power Perspective
Authors: Ladoni Moslem , Basir Abdul , Kravchenko Alexandra
Published: May 2015

Active fractions of soil C such as particulate organic C (POC) and short‐term mineralizable C (SMC) respond faster than total organic C (TOC) to management induced changes in soil C. However, the active fractions of organic C can possibly have larger variability that decreases the detectability of management effects on soil C. The objectives of this study were to (i) assess the relative usefulness of TOC, POC, and SMC as criteria of management induced changes on soil C and (ii) investigate if using auxiliary soil and topographical information can aid in increasing the usefulness of these criteria in studies conducted across large spatial scales. Data were collected at locations with two contrasting topographical positions (slope and depression) within 10 agricultural fields in conventional and cover crop based row crop managements at the 0‐ to 20‐, 35‐ to 50‐, and 70‐ to 90‐cm depths. The results showed that to detect differences between the management systems with an acceptable type II error of 0.20, an 80% difference in TOC and a 50% difference in SMC were needed. The statistical power for POC was never in an acceptable range. The use of auxiliary soil and topography information via analysis of covariance decreased the sizes of the minimal detectable differences. Given the faster reaction to management of SMC as compared with TOC, and its lower variability as compared with POC, we recommend SMC as the preferred C fraction for detecting treatment induced differences in organic C stocks in agricultural field experiments, especially in deeper soil layers.
Circulating TGF-β1–Regulated miRNAs and the Risk of Rapid Progression to ESRD in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Pezzolesi Marcus G. , Satake Eiichiro , McDonnell Kevin P. , Major Melissa , Smiles Adam M. , Krolewski Andrzej S.
Published: May 2015

We investigated whether circulating TGF-β1–regulated miRNAs detectable in plasma are associated with the risk of rapid progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in a cohort of proteinuric patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and normal eGFR. Plasma specimens obtained at entry to the study were examined in two prospective subgroups that were followed for 7–20 years (rapid progressors and nonprogressors), as well as a reference panel of normoalbuminuric T1D patients. Of the five miRNAs examined in this study, let-7c-5p and miR-29a-3p were significantly associated with protection against rapid progression and let-7b-5p and miR-21-5p were significantly associated with the increased risk of ESRD. In logistic analysis, controlling for HbA1c and other covariates, let-7c-5p and miR-29a-3p were associated with more than a 50% reduction in the risk of rapid progression (P ≤ 0.001), while let-7b-5p and miR-21-5p were associated with a >2.5-fold increase in the risk of ESRD (P ≤ 0.005). This study is the first prospective study to demonstrate that circulating TGF-β1–regulated miRNAs are deregulated early in T1D patients who are at risk for rapid progression to ESRD.
Relationship between Type D Personality and Anhedonia: A Dimensional Study of University Students
Authors: Lussier Axelle , Loas Gwenolé
Published: May 2015

Type D personality—characterized by negative affectivity and social inhibition—and anhedonia have independently been found to be significantly associated with depression or suicidal ideation in the general population or in psychiatric subjects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between Type D personality and anhedonia in a population of 204 university students (102 men, 102 women) after controlling for depression as a confounding variable. Type D personality was evaluated using the Type D scale, anhedonia with the Snaith-Hamilton Pleasure Scale, and depression with the Beck Depression Inventory–II. Significant correlations were found between social inhibition and anhedonia before and after adjustment for depression. In women, a Sobel test indicated significant mediation by social inhibition of the relationship between anhedonia and depression. Results suggested that the social inhibition component of Type D personality could constitute a poor prognosis factor.
Is the Suicide Rate a Random Walk?
Authors: Yang Bijou , Lester David , Lyke Jennifer , Olsen Robert
Published: May 2015

The yearly suicide rates for the period 1933–2010 and the daily suicide numbers for 1990 and 1991 were examined for whether the distribution of difference scores (from year to year and from day to day) fitted a normal distribution, a characteristic of stochastic processes that follow a random walk. If the suicide rate were a random walk, then any disturbance to the suicide rate would have a permanent effect and national suicide prevention efforts would likely fail. The distribution of difference scores from day to day (but not the difference scores from year to year) fitted a normal distribution and, therefore, were consistent with a random walk.
The Use of Self-Managed Treatment Strategies in a Predominantly Low-Income, African-American Sample of Women Living with HIV
Authors: Houston Eric , Osborn Amanda
Published: May 2015

While low-income and ethnic minority women represent a growing proportion of new HIV cases in the United States, little is known about how they manage their antiretroviral medication regimens. Using a predominantly low-income, African-American sample ( N = 85), this study examined medication self-management strategies among HIV seropositive women undergoing antiretroviral therapy in a major metropolitan area. Most study participants (95%; n = 81) reported employing a specific medication management strategy during the previous week. Pillboxes, use of daily activities, and receiving reminders from another person were the most common strategies. Most participants (80.2%) employed two or more strategies. Age, education, and motivation were associated with alarm, pillbox, and visual aid usage.
Developing and Instructing Pre-Performance Routines for Tenpin Bowling Competitions
Authors: Lee Seungmin , Lee Keunchul , Kwon Sungho
Published: May 2015

This preliminary study developed pre-performance routines for tenpin bowlers and instructed them. To develop the routine, the situations before throwing the ball were divided into four phases; participants were examined through interviews and observations. This study used an A–B design; the A stage included the development of the routines for 3wk., while the B stage included the instruction and two evaluations of the routine consistency. Practice was implemented for 4 hr. per day for 9 wk. The participants noted they understood the developed routine easily and experienced an atmosphere similar to that of a competition during training through the routines. They found it difficult to practice the relaxation phase, but emphasized that the relaxation phase was helpful. Consistent routines were associated with an improved mental state and performance in a competition. This study suggests that pre-performance routines stabilize the mental state of the athletes, apparently giving them a competitive advantage.
Wake-up stroke in a young woman with rotational vertebral artery occlusion due to far-lateral cervical disc herniation
Authors: Okawa Masakazu , Amamoto Takaaki , Abe Hiroshi , Yoshimura Sohei , Higashi Toshio , Inoue Tooru
Published: May 2015

Wake-up stroke is most likely to be caused by small-vessel disease, and is related to snoring. The authors present a rare case of far-lateral cervical disc herniation with neck rotation, resulting in wake-up stroke in a young woman. The patient, a 31-year-old woman, was admitted to the hospital because of dysarthria and confusion when she awoke in the morning. Brain MRI showed acute infarction in the posterior fossa. Cerebral angiography showed thrombus in the distal top of the basilar artery and the bilateral posterior cerebral arteries. During angiography, the thrombus size decreased with heparinization. There was severe stenosis of the right vertebral artery (VA) at C5–6, and head rotation to the right resulted in complete occlusion of the right VA. Neck MRI showed far-lateral intervertebral disc herniation. Surgical decompression of the VA was performed via the anterior cervical approach. Histological examination showed a degenerative intervertebral disc. Postoperative angiography confirmed successful decompression of the VA.
Determination of the biomechanical effect of an interspinous process device on implanted and adjacent lumbar spinal segments using a hybrid testing protocol: a finite-element study
Authors: Erbulut Deniz U. , Zafarparandeh Iman , Hassan Chaudhry R. , Lazoglu Ismail , Ozer Ali F.
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

The authors evaluated the biomechanical effects of an interspinous process (ISP) device on kinematics and load sharing at the implanted and adjacent segments.

METHODS

A 3D finite-element (FE) model of the lumbar spine (L1–5) was developed and validated through comparison with published in vitro study data. Specifically, validation was achieved by a flexible (load-control) approach in 3 main planes under a pure moment of 10 Nm and a compressive follower load of 400 N. The ISP device was inserted between the L-3 and L-4 processes. Intact and implanted cases were simulated using the hybrid protocol in all motion directions. The resultant motion, facet load, and intradiscal pressure after implantation were investigated at the index and adjacent levels. In addition, stress at the bone-implant interface was predicted.

RESULTS

The hybrid approach, shown to be appropriate for adjacent-level investigations, predicted that the ISP device would decrease the range of motion, facet load, and intradiscal pressure at the index level relative to the corresponding values for the intact spine in extension. Specifically, the intradiscal pressure induced after implantation at adjacent segments increased by 39.7% and by 6.6% at L2–3 and L4–5, respectively. Similarly, facet loads at adjacent segments after implantation increased up to 60% relative to the loads in the intact case. Further, the stress at the bone-implant interface increased significantly. The influence of the ISP device on load sharing parameters in motion directions other than extension was negligible.

CONCLUSIONS

Although ISP devices apply a distraction force on the processes and prevent further extension of the index segment, their implantation may cause changes in biomechanical parameters such as facet load, intradiscal pressure, and range of motion at adjacent levels in extension.
Pineal cyst resection in the absence of ventriculomegaly or Parinaud's syndrome: clinical outcomes and implications for patient selection
Authors: Kalani M. Yashar S. , Wilson David A. , Koechlin Nicolas Olmo , Abuhusain Hazem J. , Dlouhy Brian J. , Gunawardena Manuri P. , Nozue-Okada Kyoko , Teo Charles
Published: May 2015

OBJECT

Surgical indications for patients with pineal cysts are controversial. While the majority of patients harboring a pineal cyst require no treatment, surgery is a well-accepted option for a subset of those patients with secondary hydrocephalus or Parinaud's syndrome. The majority of pineal cysts are identified incidentally during workup for other potential conditions, which may or may not be related to the presence of the cyst. In the absence of clear obstruction of CSF pathways, the treatment of presumed symptomatic pineal cysts is debatable. To clarify the role of surgery in these borderline cases, the authors reviewed their experience with resection of pineal cysts in the absence of ventriculomegaly or Parinaud's syndrome.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed medical records and imaging of all patients surgically treated between 2001 and 2014 with a pineal cyst in the absence of ventriculomegaly and Parinaud's syndrome. The presenting symptoms, preoperative cyst size, preoperative radiographic aqueductal compression, extent of resection, and radiographic and clinical follow-up were documented.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients (14 female and 4 male; mean age 24 years, range 4–47 years) underwent cyst resection in the absence of ventriculomegaly or Parinaud's syndrome. Presenting symptoms included headache (17 patients), visual disturbances (10 patients), gait instability (5 patients), dizziness (5 patients), episodic loss of consciousness (2 patients), and hypersomnolence (1 patient). The mean preoperative cyst diameter was 1.5 cm (range 0.9–2.2 cm). All patients had a complete resection. At a mean clinical follow-up of 19.1 months (range postoperative to 71 months), 17 (94%) patients had resolution or improvement of their presenting symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors' results suggest that ventriculomegaly and Parinaud's syndrome are not absolute requisites for a pineal cyst to be symptomatic. Analogous to colloid cysts of the third ventricle, intermittent occlusion of cerebrospinal fluid pathways may cause small pineal cysts to become intermittently symptomatic. A select cohort of patients with pineal cysts may benefit from surgery despite a lack of hydrocephalus or other obvious compressive pathology.
Correlation and path coefficient analysis of body weight and morphometric traits of two exotic genetic groups of ducks in Nigeria
Authors: Yakubu A , Muhammed MM , Ari MM , Musa-Azara IS , Omeje JN
Published: May 2015

The study aimed at describing objectively the interdependence between body weight (BWT) and morphometric traits in Khaki Campbell and Pekin ducks using multivariate path analysis technique. Measurements were taken on one hundred and ninety seven (197) randomly selected 10-week old Khaki Campbell and Pekin ducks, respectively in Plateau State, Nigeria. The birds were reared on deep litter in a semi-intensive system where they were kept in a fenced area provided with water ponds and locked up in the poultry house during the night. The body parts measured were, body length (BDL); thigh length (THL); thigh circumference (THC); breast circumference (BTC); bill length (BLL); neck length (NKL); neck circumference (NKC); shank length (SHL); shank width (SHW); total leg length (TLL) and wing length (WL). General linear model was used to study genotype and sex effects. Pekin ducks had a superior advantage (p<0.05) over their Khaki Campbell counterparts in all the body parameters estimated. Sexual dimorphism (p<0.05) was in favour of male ducks.  Pairwise phenotypic correlations between BWT and morphometric traits were positive and significant (p<0.01), ranging from 0.38-0.95 and 0.35-0.92 for Khaki Campbell and Pekin ducks, respectively. Path analysis revealed that BDL was the variable of utmost importance directly influencing BWT in male Khaki Campbell and Pekin ducks (path coefficient=0.535 and 0.508, respectively; p<0.01) while BTC and SHL were the most responsible parameters affecting BWT in female Khaki Campbell and Pekin ducks [path coefficient=0.594 (P<0.01) and 1.197 (p<0.05), respectively]. The optimum regression models for the prediction of BWT in Khaki Campbell ducks included BDL, SHL, BTC and NKC (male)  and BDL, WNL and BTC (female); while in their Pekin counterparts, BDL, BLL and BTC (male) and BDL and SHL (female) were incorporated.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23112            Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 1-9
Use of non-antibiotic growth promoter Grow Power in commercial broiler diet
Authors: Hossain MF , Khairunnesa M , Das SC
Published: May 2015

An experiment was conducted with 160, day old Cobb 500 broiler chicks to evaluate the effect of supplementation of Grow Power (GP) on the performance of broiler. The dietary treatments were control (D1), Grow Power (D2), Grow Power plus antibiotic (D3) and antibiotic (D4). At 5th week of age, the body weight of birds at different dietary treatments were 938.75, 1105.00, 1136.25, and 985.00g in the diets of D1, D2, D3 and D4, respectively. Body weight gain at 2nd, 3rd and 4th week of age were significantly (P<0.05) higher in GP supplemented group (D2) and GP plus antibiotic group (D3) than that of control (D1) and antibiotic (D4) groups. Feed consumption during the experimental period was 1753.75, 1938.75, 1917.50 and 1774.50g for D1, D2, D3 and D4, respectively. At 2nd and 3rd week of age, feed consumption were significantly (p<0.05) higher in D3 group than the other groups including control. Significantly (P<0.05) better Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) was found in D3 (2.03) and D2 (2.11) groups compared to D1 (2.31) and D4 (2.28).  At 3rd, 4th and 5th week of age, the Performance Index (%) was significantly higher in D2 than D1 and D4. Meat yield parameter of broilers showed significant (P<0.05) differences in dressing weight, feather weight, shank weight, drumstick weight, neck weight, liver weight and viscera weight. Based on the results obtained from the current study it may be concluded that the inclusion of Grow Power @ 50gm/100kg of mixed feed with or without antibiotic improved the growth of commercial broiler including their FCR and therefore, this product may be considered as an alternative of traditional antibiotic in broiler diet.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23139Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 33-39
Replacement of cow milk chhana with soy chhana in the preparation of rasomalai
Authors: Islam MN , Parvin F , Hossain MS , Wadud A , Siddiki MSR , Khan MS
Published: May 2015

Four different types of rasomalai were prepared from cow milk chhana (acid curd) with the addition of different levels of soy chhana. The prepared rasomalai were named as A (100% cow milk chhana), B (75% cow milk chhana+25% Soy Chhana), C (50% cow milk chhana+50% soy chhana) and D (25% cow milk chhana+75% soy chhana). The qualities of prepared rasomalai were evaluated by using physical and chemical parameters. It was observed that the addition of soy chhana with cow milk chhana decreased the organoleptic score of the prepared rasomalai. The moisture, total solids and carbohydrate content of the sample were not significantly differed, but protein (p<0.05), ash (p<0.05), fat (p<0.01) content and acidity percent (p<0.01) of the samples were significantly decreased in addition of soy chhana with cow milk chhana. Considering the physico-chemical properties of all samples, it was found that most suitable and acceptable quality of rasomalai can be prepared by admixture of 25% soy chhana and 75% cow milk chhana.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjas.v44i1.23144            Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2014. 44 (1): 59-63
Kaempferol modulates the metastasis of human non-small cell lung cancer cells by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Hang Meng , Zhao Fan , Chen Shu-Bo , Sun Qing , Zhang Chun-Xiao
Published: May 2015

The present study was done to determine whether kaempferol, a natural polyphenol of the flavonoid family, affects Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in non-small cell lung cancer cells. Kaempferol not only inhibited cancer cell proliferation and migration in a dose-dependent manner but also modulated the expression of EMT-related proteins E-cadherin and vimentin which are indispensible to cellular motility, invasiveness and metastasis. These results indicate that kaempferol suppresses non-small cell lung cancer migration by modulating the expression of EMT proteins. Therefore, kaempferol may be useful as a potential anticancer agent for non-small cell lung cancer.

 

 
Pharmacological evaluation of Dactyloctenium aegyptium: An indigenous plant used to manage gastrointestinal ailments
Authors: Janbaz Khalid Hussain , Saqib Fatima
Published: May 2015

Crude extract of Dactylotenium aegyptium and its fractions were evaluated to rationalize its folkloric use in gastrointestinal ailments. In spontaneous contracting rabbit jejunum preparation, D. aegyptium exert concentration-dependent spasmogenic effect (0.01-0.1 mg/mL) followed by spasmolytic effect at higher doses (0.3-3.0 mg/mL). Pretreatment of the tissue preparations with atropine resulted in suppression of the spasmogenic response. Furthermore, D. aegyptium (1.0 mg/mL) caused relaxation of K+ (80 mM)-induced spastic contractions in isolated rabbit jejunum preparations and there was non-parallel shift in Ca++ dose response curves towards right (0.1-0.3 mg/mL). These findings were found to be comparable with verapamil, a standard Ca++ channel blocker. The solvent-solvents fractionation reflected segregations of spasmogenic and spasmolytic effects in respective aqueous and dichloromethane fractions. The above-mentioned findings reflected, presence of cholinergic as well as Ca++ channel blocking activity in ethanolic extract of D. aegyptium thus providing scientific basis for its folkloric use in constipation and diarrhea.

 

 
Design and synthesis of a novel 5-(aminomethylene)thiazolidine-2,4-dione derivatives as potent hepatitis-B virus polymerase inhibitors
Authors: Li Wei-Guo , Wang He-Qun
Published: May 2015

A series of novel thiazolidinedione analogues (TZD) were designed and synthesized potent inhibitors of HBV capsid assembly. The synthesis of thiazolidine-2,4-dione derivatives (4a–4o), starting from the condensation of 5-(ethoxymethylene)thiazolidine-2,4-dione (1) with various secondary amines (3) derived from biologically active compounds. The newly synthesized TZD analogues 4a-4o were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and MS and evaluated for their anti-HBV activity. Most of the compounds inhibited the expression of viral antigens at low concentration. Six compounds, 4g, 4h, 4l, 4m, 4n, and 4o, demonstrated potent inhibition of HBV DNA replication at submicromolar range. Of these five initial hits, compound 4o was the most active when compared with lamivudine.

 

 
Adjuvant chemotherapy of megestrol acetate in advanced breast cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Shui Yanping , Tang Youmei , Zhang Xuefeng , Ge Jun , Pu Zhichen
Published: May 2015

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of adjuvant chemotherapy of megestrol acetate (MA) in advanced breast cancer. We searched CBM, CNKI, VIP, Wangfang Data and PubMed, and collected randomized controlled trials (RCT) of adjuvant chemotherapy of MA in advanced breast cancer. MA significantly increased treatment efficiency (p = 0.0010); improve weight (p<0.0001), appetite (p = 0.001) and KPS (p = 0.06); ameliorate leucopenia (p = 0.02), thrombocytopenia (p = 0.02) and hemoglobin (p = 0.01); reduce gastrointestinal reaction (p = 0.0005) of the patients of adjuvant chemotherapy in advanced breast cancer. MA significantly increased treatment efficiency, improve the nutritional situation, reduce bone marrow suppression, and gastrointestinal reaction of the patients of adjuvant chemotherapy in advanced breast cancer. High-quality RCTs are needed to guidance for preliminary studies of the effective treatment of adjuvant chemotherapy of MA in advanced breast cancer.
Anticancer and anti-angiogenesis effect of the leaf extract of Sargassum wightii against osteosarcoma cancer cells
Authors: Yu Qi-Long , Tang Zhao-Chun , Li Jin-Ge , Wang Guo-Liang , Wang Pei-Jun , Pan Zhao-Bao
Published: May 2015

This study was aimed to evaluate the chemical composition of ethanolic leaf extract of a marine macro-alga Sargassum wightii (ELESW) followed by its vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) induced anti-angiogenic effect against human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The effect of ELESW on cell viability and its potential against in vivo angiogenesis was assessed by using the MTT and CAM assay respectively. The phenolic, flavonoid, polysaccharides, and protein content of ELESW were found to be 56.0 ± 4.1 mg GAE/g, 26.3 ± 3.6 mg QE/g, 284.2 ± 6.2 μg/mL, 100.9 ± 8.9 μg/mL, respectively. In angiogenesis, ELESW (100, 500 and 1,000 μg/mL) significantly inhibited VEGF induced angiogenesis as well as VEGF-induced proliferation and tube formation of HUVECs in a dose-dependent manner. Upon stimuli-tion by VEGF, HUVECs rapidly increased reactive oxygen species production, which was significantly blocked by treatment with ELESW. These findings suggesting that S. wightii could be a valuable candidate of therapeutic efficacy.
Renal functional reserve by measuring the creatinine clearance in children : previously diagnosed and improved after acute renal failure
Authors: Akhter Fahmuda , Yasmeen BH Nazma , Hanif Mohammad , Roy Shushoma
Published: May 2015

Background : Acute Renal Failure (ARF) is a life threatening condition causing significant morbidity and mortality in children. Many studies on adult ARF survivors showed that renal insufficiency persisted after an attack of ARF. Children may be more susceptible to this injury due to immaturity and ongoing growth of the kidney.Objective : This study was conducted to assess the renal functional reserve or detect any sign of renal injury in children after an episode of Acute Renal FailureMethods : This prospective study was carried out in the Renal and Dialysis unit, Dhaka Shishu Hospital in 2007, January . Thirty patients were enrolled in this study by searching data held in the study centre.Results : Thirty (30) patients were selected in this study. Among them 46.7% was in the group > 5-10 years, only 10.0% was in age group < 1 year and more than 10 years respectively. Male were 63.3%, female were 36.7%.Causes of acute renal failure were diarrhoea with dehydration 43.3%, septicaemia 20.0%, Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (HUS) 20%, Acute Glomerulo Nephrities (AGN) 10.0%, Henoch Schonlein Purpura ( HSP) 3.3% and hepato renal syndrome 3.3%. During follow up Glomerular Filtration Rate(GFR) of the patients were in stage 1 in 76.7% cases , 10.0% in stage 2, 6.7% in stage 3 stage and in stage 4 & 5 3.3% cases.23.3% patients were found with GFR between stage 2 to stage 5, who had ARF due to HUS and HSP. The incidence of hypertension and proteinuria was found in 13.3% cases of HUS.Conclusion : The progressive nature of acute renal failure which may cause chronic kidney disease is an important observation.Northern International Medical College Journal Vol.6(1) 2014: 15-17
Patients’ Experience of Myositis and Further Validation of a Myositis-specific Patient Reported Outcome Measure — Establishing Core Domains and Expanding Patient Input on Clinical Assessment in Myositis. Report from OMERACT 12
Authors: Regardt Malin , Basharat Pari , Christopher-Stine Lisa , Sarver Catherine , Björn Anita , Lundberg Ingrid E. , Wook Song Yeong , Bingham Clifton O. , Alexanderson Helene
Published: May 2015

Objective.

The Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) myositis working group was established to examine patient-reported outcomes (PRO) as well as to validate patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) in myositis.

Methods.

Qualitative studies using focus group interviews and cognitive debriefing of the myositis-specific Myositis Activities Profile (MAP) were used to explore the experience of adults living with polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM).

Results.

Preliminary results underscore the importance of patient input in the development of PROM to ensure content validity. Results from multicenter focus groups indicate the range of symptoms experienced including pain, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function, which are not currently assessed in myositis. Preliminary cognitive debriefing of the MAP indicated that while content was deemed relevant and important, several activities were not included; and that questionnaire construction and wording may benefit from revision. A research agenda was developed to continue work toward optimizing PRO assessment in myositis with 2 work streams. The first would continue to conduct and analyze focus groups until saturation in the thematic analysis was achieved to develop a framework that encompassed the patient-relevant aspects of myositis. The second would continue cognitive debriefing of the MAP to identify potential areas for revision. There was agreement that further work would be needed for inclusion body myositis and juvenile dermatomyositis, and that the inclusion of additional contributors such as caregivers and individuals from the pharmaceutical/regulatory spheres would be desirable.

Conclusions.

The currently used PROM do not assess symptoms or the effects of disease that are most important to patients; this emphasizes the necessity of patient involvement. Our work provides concrete examples for PRO identification.
Galo amanheceu em Lourenço Marques: O 7 de Setembro e o verso da descolonização de Moçambique
Authors: Machava Benedito
Published: May 2015

Este artigo analisa e descreve a emergência de um grupo de resistência africana durante a insurreição colona do 7 de Setembro de 1974 em Lourenço Marques. O artigo examina a trajectória das elites africanas urbanas que lideraram o grupo de resistência (conhecido como grupo Galo), e o desenvolvimento de um imaginário político marcadamente moderado, fruto das circunstâncias específicas do meio urbano onde sempre operaram. O seu papel foi determinante na protecção das populações africanas contra o terrorismo dos insurrectos, bem como na recuperação do Rádio Clube de Moçambique, evitando deste modo o escalar da violência em Lourenço Marques.
Information-Seeking 2.0
Authors: Robinson Laura
Published: May 2015

This article begins to shed light on how informational advantage affects the use of new media for information-acquisition and assessment. Drawing on material culled from one-on-one and small-group interviews with high school students in an agricultural region of California, the article examines high achievers committed to academic excellence in preparation for college. However, while they share the same educational goals, not all of these students have access to the same informational resources. Informationally advantaged students’ access to new media, traditional media, and social networks distinguishes them from their informationally disadvantaged counterparts who lack access to both online and offline resources. Examination reveals how these disparities in access to informational resources have consequences for the students’ capacity to assess information relevant to schoolwork as well as college planning. Students with plentiful media resources adopt autonomous strategies vis-à-vis the assessment of information for both schoolwork and college searches. By contrast, students without informational resources are forced by necessity to rely on others, ultimately leading them to develop a dependence on trusted opinions in order to assess information. In relating informational environments to these assessment strategies, the article reveals the repercussions of informational advantage for schoolwork and college planning activities increasingly dominated by online resources.
Elective Affinities 2.0?
Authors: Schmitz Andreas
Published: May 2015

Although Pierre Bourdieu’s works treated partnership formation, the processual and intersubjective character of mating and the gender-specific resources convoked in reciprocal evaluations and rating practices are blind spots in his perspective based on homophilous lifestyle preferences. Consequently, this article develops a framework of mating processes extending Bourdieu’s theory and thereby provides a starting point for empirical assessments. Using data taken from a major German online dating provider, the article shows that, due to the dyadic nature of encounters, the pressure of self-presentation and choice and the high degree of competition between many potential partners, online dating is an ideal-type market that enables the detailed study of classificatory processes. Beginning with an elaboration towards a general model of reciprocal classification in mating, refining the Bourdieusian model of partnership formation, the paper explains the data’s structure and its operationalization from methodological and methodical points of view. Finally, a simplified, empirical application of a model of classificatory mating practices is presented and discussed, suggesting that homogeneity (rather than homophily) is reinforced, not undermined, by the technical conditions of online interaction.
Self-Injury and the Internet
Authors: Adler Patricia A. , Adler Peter
Published: May 2015

Previous models of therapeutic treatment for self-injury have been focused on individualistic psycho-medical approaches that isolate and stigmatize people who cut, burn, and otherwise self-harm. The rise of cyber communities of self-injury, beginning in the early 2000s but evolving dramatically over the first decade of the twenty-first century, has offered a diversity of groups that individuals can join, cycling through different ones as their movement through their career of self-injury evolves. These groups offer a significantly different set of norms and values relating to self-injury, engaging in some combination of defining it, normalizing it, supporting it, and offering a range of techniques for combatting it. In this article we discuss the various ways different people participate in these cyber communities, their relationships between the cyber and face-to-face worlds, and the effects of the Internet on self-injury. We conclude by discussing the instrumental and expressive effects of cyber self-injury support groups, and the way these groups function to normalize the behavior and foster its moral passage.
An Entertainment Machine of filial piety
Authors: Lin Holin
Published: May 2015

Starting with the Nintendo Wii craze in 2007, a new media trend and public discourse are taking shape in which the Wii replaced the traditional image of “parents-to-children game machine” with a new image of “machine for filial piety”. Grown-ups bought Wii as a gift for their parents to fill in their own absence in the family life, or to carry out unfulfilled duty in taking care of elderly parents. In this study, the meaning of such phenomenon is analyzed as more than just a successful market development strategy to incorporate unlikely gamers. The new game machine is used in the adult children’s struggle to reconcile the traditional cultural values of filial care with fast-changing family structure and contemporary life style.
La noce à l’écran
Authors: Sapio Giuseppina
Published: May 2015

Le présent article se propose d’analyser la pratique du film de mariage en France afin de comprendre comment les familles s’auto-représentent devant l’objectif de la caméra et quels sont les enjeux identitaires ou affectifs d’une telle « mise en scène ». À cet égard, nous nommons « méta-famille » le potentiel autoréflexif de la pratique des home movies, qui, selon nous, encourage les individus à s’interroger sur leurs rôles au sein du groupe familial. Dans une perspective diachronique, attentive aux changements technologiques et sociaux intervenus au fil du temps, nous avons établi un corpus de films de mariage, publiés en ligne sur la plateforme YouTube, mais réalisés en plusieurs formats (Super 8, VHS, numérique). Nous proposons ici une étude sociosémiotique des textes filmiques mêlant sémiologie, analyse des supports et remises en contexte, qui analyse l’articulation entre les modalités représentatives adoptées par les amateurs et les liens familiaux qui transparaissent dans ces formes filmiques.
Entre perceptions, publicisation et stratégies d’acteurs, la difficile inscription des risques littoraux dans l’action publique : focus camarguais
Authors: Allouche Aurélien , Nicolas Laurence
Published: May 2015

Les risques littoraux suscitent des oppositions remarquables à bien des égards : au niveau de l’existence qu’on leur prête et de l’attention qu’on leur porte, à la façon que l’on a de les porter sur la place publique et enfin à leur inscription dans les modes de gestion et d’adaptation du territoire. Nous tentons de comprendre quelques facteurs pouvant expliquer le maintien d’une dissension à chacun de ces trois niveaux d’appréhension sociale des risques littoraux. Pour cela, nous nous appuyons sur une étude de cas, le littoral camarguais, qui fournit à la fois un « cas d’école » et une situation suffisamment commune pour que chacun perçoive aisément ce qu’il y a de général en lui. Notre propos consiste ici à développer des aspects moins fréquemment traités dans l’étude des perceptions sociales du risque et des actions publiques d’atténuation de la vulnérabilité sociale à ce type d’aléas. Il s’agit de compléter l’approche qui se limite à la sphère exclusivement centrée sur l’individu et ses représentations personnelles. On étudiera le contexte social et physique où s’insèrent ces représentations.
Le droit à l’épreuve de la tempête Xynthia
Authors: Mulot Vanessa
Published: May 2015

La tempête Xynthia a traversé l'Europe et a fortement impacté les côtes charentaises et vendéennes dans la nuit du 27 au 28 février 2010. Cette catastrophe a été le révélateur d'une urbanisation du littoral peu maîtrisée, en contradiction des règles de droit et de bon sens. En réponse à cette catastrophe et afin d'éviter qu'un tel drame ne se reproduise, des mesures d'urgence ont d’abord été mises en œuvre pour tenter de combler les lacunes de la prévention, puis l’État a procédé à une relance des outils existants. Différents projets et propositions de lois ont également été déposés, ils n’ont cependant pas abouti aujourd’hui. Cette contribution s’attache à analyser l’ensemble des conséquences juridiques de la tempête Xynthia sur le droit positif et prospectif.
Les défis liés à la prévention des désastres dans les aires métropolitaines : exemple de Givors dans l’aire métropolitaine lyonnaise (France)
Authors: Guézo Bernard , Pigeon Patrick
Published: May 2015

Cet article reconstitue pourquoi les chercheurs et les gestionnaires qui se penchent sur la prévention des désastres dans les aires métropolitaines tendent à mobiliser de plus en plus des notions et des outils plus intégrateurs, plus systémiques. Il s’agit des notions de résilience, de panarchie, comme de leur contrepartie plus gestionnaire, que représentent les systèmes de gestion de la connaissance. Pour ce faire, l’article rappelle les remises en cause des notions et des outils de gestion concernant tant les villes que les risques. Elles poussent à plus admettre l’existence de la complexité. On en déduit le renouvellement en cours des politiques visant à gérer les risques et les villes, qui résulte d’un long processus de maturation. Ces processus de fond peuvent également être justifiés à partir d’une étude de cas empruntée à l’aire métropolitaine lyonnaise, avec l’exemple de Givors. On espère montrer comment ces notions et ces outils liés à la complexité peuvent trouver leur justification au moins partielle par les limites des politiques prévenant les désastres, enregistrées a posteriori et observables sur le terrain.
Some Important Regulatory and Institutional Reforms in Turkey after 2001 Financial Crisis
Authors: Kahriman Hamza
Published: May 2015

The Turkish economy faced its worst financial crisis in 2001. The crisis started in the public sector and soon spread into the financial sector and finally led to major problems in the real estate sector. Following this crisis, which caused many banks to shut down and go into bankruptcy, many reforms took place. Thanks to these reforms, the Turkish economy has been growing steadily since 2003, except for the year 2008, despite conflicts in the neighboring states, and fluctuations in the global energy prices. Turkey owes this success to public and private sector reform and regulation and to its decisiveness in the implementation process. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the economic reform process in Turkey since the 2001 financial crisis as well as reflections of this reform process on the Turkish economy.
Testing Random Walk Hypothesis in Turkish Foreign Exchange Market
Authors: Çıtak Levent , Akel Veli , Çetin Murat
Published: May 2015

This chapter revisits the empirical validity of the weak-form efficient market hypothesis for Turkish foreign exchange markets. The random-walk hypothesis in foreign-exchange rates market is one of the most researched areas, particularly in developed economies. This chapter applies ADF and PP unit root test, Lo and MacKinlay's (1988) conventional variance ratio test and Ljung-Box Q tests to examine the validity of the random-walk hypothesis in the Turkish foreign-exchange market. The chapter utilizes weekly nominal TRY/USD exchange rate for data from January 2000 to December 2013. The results provide evidence rejecting the random walk hypothesis for weekly nominal exchange rate series.
The Nature of Informal Trade Sector in Zambia and Its Implications for Government's SMEs Regulatory Framework
Authors: Mafukata Mavhungu Abel , Kancheya Grace
Published: May 2015

Zambia's efforts to create a viable SME sector – after the successes of SMEs in Southeastern Europe faces numerous constraints. The nature of the informal trade sector in Zambia and how the same would provide implacable complexities for the envisaged policy framework has not been determined. This chapter explores the nature of the informal trade sector in Zambia and the implications of its nature on the new policy framework. This chapter based its argument on a case study conducted in Makululu Compound in Kabwe amongst small-scale informal traders (n=99). The majority of informal traders operated individually-based, unregistered, non-tax compliant activities to create self-employment and generate household income. The larger majority of the traders were unwilling to move from informal trading to the envisaged SMEs. Policymakers should not abruptly replace informal trading with SMEs as envisaged. Instead, informal trading should be allowed to co-exist with the envisaged SMEs.
How to Measure the Level of Financial Development
Authors: Eryigit Sibel Bali , Dulgeroglu Ercan
Published: May 2015

The aim of this chapter is twofold: first, to present in the most proper manner the definition of financial development, considering that bad definition leads to bad measurement and taking into account the discussions in the literature. Second, it aims to discuss how to measure the level of financial development. In line with these objectives, financial development index values for 1998-2011 are calculated by principal components analysis for 77 countries considering the suitable indicator in terms of the right definition of financial development. The calculated indices helps to obtain a composite measure that evaluates the size, access, efficiency and stability dimensions of financial development together.
Effects of Commodity and Asset Bubbles on Inflation in Indonesia
Authors: Sugema Iman , Bakhtiar Toni
Published: May 2015

This chapter aims to investigate the possible impacts of commodity and asset bubbles on inflation in Indonesian economics. The analysis is facilitated by a macroeconomic model described by a couple of structural equations which consist of several exogenous variables as shock generators. The model is basically a linear rational expectation model (LREM) and solved by implementing undetermined coefficient methods. A series of simulation based on the state space representation of the model with respect to an impulse response function is performed to highlight some of key features of current inflation trends. It is shown that consumer price inflation can be propagated by both hikes in international commodity prices and assets prices. Consequently, inflation can be more difficult to manage during an episode of commodity and asset bubbles. Indeed, such an episode is very common to emerging economies during the last few years and thereby it is not surprising that monetary authorities tend to miss the inflation target very often. It suggests that the authorities should take into account the future movement of commodity and assets prices when setting the target.