bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of Connective Tissue Growth Factor in Human and Experimental Hypertensive Nephrosclerosis
Authors: Ito Yasuhiko , Aten Jan , Nguyen Tri Q. , Joles Jaap A. , Matsuo Seiichi , Weening Jan J. , Goldschmeding Roel
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF; CCN2) has been implicated as a marker and mediator of fibrosis in human and experimental renal disease. Methods: We performed a comparative analysis of CTGF expression in hypertensive patients with and without nephrosclerosis, and in uninephrectomized and sham-operated spontaneously hypertensive rats (UNX-SHR and 2K-SHR). Results: Urinary and plasma CTGF were elevated in patients with hypertensive nephrosclerosis, and increased renal CTGF expression was mainly localized in podocytes. Accordingly, elevation of urinary, plasma, and tissue CTGF in UNX-SHR coincided and correlated with proteinuria, glomerulosclerosis, and tubulointerstitial fibrosis. Thirty-two weeks after uninephrectomy, mean glomerular CTGF mRNA expression was increased 1.3-fold over baseline, mainly due to 1.7-fold higher expression in glomeruli undergoing sclerosis. In parallel, tubulointerstitial CTGF and α-smooth muscle actin were upregulated in UNX-SHR. CTGF was increased in the media of arcuate and interlobar arteries, while arterioles remained negative. Conclusions: Glomerulosclerosis, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and arterial media hypertrophy lesions of hypertensive nephrosclerosis are all characterized by increased CTGF tissue expression, which is associated with a concomitant increase in CTGF in blood and urine. These findings identify CTGF as a promising biomarker for progression of hypertensive nephrosclerosis, and as a likely key factor in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Differential Roles of Frequency-following and Frequency-doubling Visual Responses Revealed by Evoked Neural Harmonics
Authors: Kim Yee-Joon , Grabowecky Marcia , Paller Ken A. , Suzuki Satoru
Published: August 2010

Frequency-following and frequency-doubling neurons are ubiquitous in both striate and extrastriate visual areas. However, responses from these two types of neural populations have not been effectively compared in humans because previous EEG studies have not successfully dissociated responses from these populations. We devised a light–dark flicker stimulus that unambiguously distinguished these responses as reflected in the first and second harmonics in the steady-state visual evoked potentials. These harmonics revealed the spatial and functional segregation of frequency-following (the first harmonic) and frequency-doubling (the second harmonic) neural populations. Spatially, the first and second harmonics in steady-state visual evoked potentials exhibited divergent posterior scalp topographies for a broad range of EEG frequencies. The scalp maximum was medial for the first harmonic and contralateral for the second harmonic, a divergence not attributable to absolute response frequency. Functionally, voluntary visual–spatial attention strongly modulated the second harmonic but had negligible effects on the simultaneously elicited first harmonic. These dissociations suggest an intriguing possibility that frequency-following and frequency-doubling neural populations may contribute complementary functions to resolve the conflicting demands of attentional enhancement and signal fidelity—the frequency-doubling population may mediate substantial top–down signal modulation for attentional selection, whereas the frequency-following population may simultaneously preserve relatively undistorted sensory qualities regardless of the observer's cognitive state.
A Diagnostic Examination of Consecutive Extreme Cool-Season Precipitation Events at St. John’s, Newfoundland, in December 2008
Authors: Milrad Shawn M. , Atallah Eyad H. , Gyakum John R.
Published: August 2010

St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada (CYYT), is frequently affected by extreme precipitation events, particularly in the cool season (October–April). Previous work classified precipitation events at CYYT into categories by precipitation amount and a manual synoptic typing was performed on the 50 median extreme precipitation events, using two separate methods. Here, consecutive extreme precipitation events in December 2008 are analyzed. These events occurred over a 6-day period and produced over 125 mm of precipitation at CYYT. The first manual typing method, using a backward-trajectory analysis, results in both events being classified as “southwest,” which were previously defined as the majority of the backward trajectories originating in the Gulf of Mexico. The second method of manual synoptic typing finds that the first event is classified as a “cyclone,” while the second is a “frontal” event. A synoptic analysis of both events is conducted, highlighting important dynamic and thermodynamic structures. The first event was characterized by strong quasigeostrophic forcing for ascent in a weakly stable atmosphere in association with a rapidly intensifying extratropical cyclone off the coast of North America and transient high values of subtropical moisture. The second event was characterized by primarily frontogenetical forcing for ascent in a weakly stable atmosphere in the presence of quasi-stationary high values of subtropical moisture, in association with a northeast–southwest-oriented baroclinic zone situated near CYYT. In sum, the synoptic structures responsible for the two events highlight rather disparate means to produce an extreme precipitation event at CYYT.
Boundary Configurations in Science Policy: Modeling Practices in Health Care
Authors: van Egmond Stans , Bal Roland
Published: August 2010

This article addresses the role of science and science advisory bodies in modeling practices for the support of policy-making procedures in the Netherlands in the field of health care. The authors show, based on a detailed investigation of a prestigious interdisciplinary modeling project in which an economic care model was developed for governmental use, that science advisory bodies are entangled with the policy actors they advise in what we call boundary configurations. Boundary configurations are strongly situated interconnections between science advisory institutes and policy institutions that share a specific approach to problem definitions and methods and that are embedded in (and at the same time embed) specific social, discursive, and material elements. Importantly, as the case study shows, such boundary configurations shape the kind of science, and related, the kind of social and political theories about the world, that is effectuated in modeling practices. In this case study, the boundary configuration in which economic experts and policy makers participated contributed to the articulation of health care in terms of a market-based policy program for the health care sector.
Comparative Pathology of Select Agent Influenza A Virus Infections
Authors: Kuiken T. , van den Brand J. , van Riel D. , Pantin-Jackwood M. , Swayne D. E.
Published: August 2010

Influenza A virus infections may spread rapidly in human populations and cause variable mortality. Two of these influenza viruses have been designated as select agents: 1918 H1N1 virus and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus. Knowledge of the pathology of these virus infections in humans, other naturally infected species, and experimental animals is important to understand the pathogenesis of influenza, to design appropriate models for evaluation of medical countermeasures, and to make correct diagnoses. The most important complication of influenza in humans is viral pneumonia, which often occurs with or is followed by bacterial pneumonia. Viremia and extrarespiratory disease are uncommon. HPAI viruses, including HPAI H5N1 virus, cause severe systemic disease in galliform species as well as in anseriform species and bird species of other orders. HPAI H5N1 virus infection also causes severe disease in humans and several species of carnivores. Experimental animals are used to model different aspects of influenza in humans, including uncomplicated influenza, pneumonia, and virus transmission. The most commonly used experimental animal species are laboratory mouse, domestic ferret, and cynomolgus macaque. Experimental influenza virus infections are performed in various other species, including domestic pig, guinea pig, and domestic cat. Each of these species has advantages and disadvantages that need to be assessed before choosing the most appropriate model to reach a particular goal. Such animal models may be applied for the development of more effective antiviral drugs and vaccines to protect humans from the threat of these virus infections.
High Stakes Accountability and Policy Implementation: Teacher Decision Making in Bilingual Classrooms in Texas
Authors: Palmer Deborah , Snodgrass Rangel Virginia
Published: August 2010

This article contributes to an emerging body of literature on the impact of high stakes testing accountability policies on implementation and teaching practice. It uses a theory of implementation, sense-making, to highlight the process by which policy and context shape teacher decision making. We focus on teachers in bilingual classrooms in an urban district in Texas where we found that teachers make decisions in an environment that exerts both formal and informal pressures to limit the curriculum they offer their students and privilege test preparation. Teachers struggle to reconcile their context, constituted by their students’ specific pedagogical and linguistic needs, with the pressures of their high stakes testing environment.
Critical Time Intervention: Model Description and Implications for the Significance of Timing in Social Work Interventions
Authors: Herman Daniel B. , Mandiberg James M.
Published: August 2010

Relatively little attention has been paid to the dimension of time in the design of social work interventions. Critical time intervention (CTI), an empirically supported psychosocial intervention intended to reduce the risk of homelessness by enhancing continuity of support for individuals with severe mental illness (SMI) during the transition from institutions to community living, is a model that was explicitly developed to address a timing-specific need. After describing the model and summarizing research that supports its effectiveness, this article considers examples of other time-sensitive interventions in social work and related fields and speculates on some potential advantages to such strategies. Further attention to various dimensions of timing in the design and evaluation of social work interventions is warranted.
Objectivity and Plausibility in the Study of Organizations
Authors: Bosch Reinoud
Published: August 2010

Since the 2003 article by Meckler and Baillie in this journal, a fruitful debate has taken place on the nature and attainability of objectivity in the study of organizations. The author argues that though it is impossible to know whether a theoretical claim is epistemically objective or not, it may be accepted as plausible when it is felt to be in some accordance with “the given”— empirical findings, subjective/intersubjective ideas, thoughts and feelings, and the opinions of and cultural categories used by others. Processes of resistance and accommodation occur during research as well as within scientific communities, enhancing the plausibility of certain theoretical claims over others. Accepted theories feed back into the research process as well as its subject matter, thereby affecting subjective/intersubjective judgments of plausibility. Openness, honesty, and responsibility are particularly important in the evaluation of the plausibility of theoretical claims.
Implicit Leadership Theories: Think Leader, Think Effective?
Authors: Schyns Birgit , Schilling Jan
Published: August 2010

In general, although research into leadership acknowledges negative aspects of leadership, research into implicit leadership theories lags behind in this respect. Most implicit leadership theories research implies that the image of a leader in general reflects an effective leader. However, recent results in leadership research as well as headlines and reports in the popular press cast doubt on this assumption. This article reports a qualitative study, focusing on general implicit leadership theories rather than effective images of leaders. The analysis of 349 statements results in 15 categories that describe leaders in general. The results imply that implicit leadership theories are composed of both effective and ineffective attributes. The study challenges previous assumptions on the effectiveness implied in implicit leadership theories.
A New Approach to Assess the Retention of Allergen (Der f 1 and Der p 1) on Anionic and Nonanionic Cotton Bedding Sheets After a Vigorous Sequential Cleaning Regime as Assessed by ELISA
Authors: Black J.A. , Foarde K.K.
Published: August 2010

Anionic surfaces can interact with a variety of biological molecules and when used on bedding material may have the potential of binding with and sequestering protein allergens such as those produced by dust mites. However, no method exists to evaluate the efficacy of this claim. The purpose of this study was to develop a method using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to evaluate the capability of anionic treated cotton bedding sheet material to retain medically important dust mite allergens in direct comparison with nonanionic cotton bedding sheet material from a single manufacturer. Anionic, and nonanionic cotton bedding sheets were challenged singularly with water suspended pulverized dust mite Dermatophagoides farinae, water suspended pulverized dust mite D. pteronyssinus, or water alone as a negative control. All dried inoculums were subjected to four sequential extraction series using water in the first two separate extractions and water with surfactant in the last two separate extractions. All four extractions were assessed by ELISA using monoclonal antibodies specific for medically important protein allergens Der f 1 (D. farinae) or Der p 1 (D. pteronyssinus), respectively. There were a total of 25 replicates for each assessment. Our findings demonstrate that nearly all of the Der f 1 and Der p 1 was released from the nonanionic fabric after the first water extraction. Conversely, most of the Der f 1 and Der p 1 allergens were retained by the anionic fabric after both water extractions and was released only after surfactant was used. Our data indicated that >80% of Der f 1 and Der p 1 was released from the nonanionic fabric after the initial two water extractions while 80% of Der f 1 and Der p 1 was retained by anionic fabric after the same extractions. The method proved to be robust and data was reproducible. Protein extraction using less stringent to high stringent conditions demonstrated the effectiveness of anionic fabric in retaining dust mite proteins that cause allergy. This method can be used to assess other materials while allergists should consider the use of anionic bedding as it effectively retained dust mite allergens Der f 1 and Der p 1 until laundering can remove them from the household.
Enterovirus type 71 2A protease functions as a transcriptional activator in yeast
Authors: Yang Chee-Hing , Li Hui-Chun , Jiang Jeng-Geng , Hsu Che-Fang , Wang Yi-Jen , Lai Meng-Jiun , Juang Yue-Li , Lo Shih-Yen
Published: August 2010

Enterovirus type 71 (EV71) 2A protease exhibited strong transcriptional activity in yeast cells. The transcriptional activity of 2A protease was independent of its protease activity. EV71 2A protease retained its transcriptional activity after truncation of 40 amino acids at the N-terminus but lost this activity after truncation of 60 amino acids at the N-terminus or deletion of 20 amino acids at the C-terminus. Thus, the acidic domain at the C-terminus of this protein is essential for its transcriptional activity. Indeed, deletion of amino acids from 146 to 149 (EAME) in this acidic domain lost the transcriptional activity of EV71 2A protein though still retained its protease activity. EV71 2A protease was detected both in the cytoplasm and nucleus using confocal microscopy analysis. Coxsackie virus B3 2A protease also exhibited transcriptional activity in yeast cells. As expected, an acidic domain in the C-terminus of Coxsackie virus B3 2A protease was also identified. Truncation of this acidic domain resulted in the loss of transcriptional activity. Interestingly, this acidic region of poliovirus 2A protease is critical for viral RNA replication. The transcriptional activity of the EV71 or Coxsackie virus B3 2A protease should play a role in viral replication and/or pathogenesis.
Phylogenetic and regulatory region analysis of Wnt5 genes reveals conservation of a regulatory module with putative implication in pancreas development
Authors: Kapasa Maria , Arhondakis Stilianos , Kossida Sophia
Published: August 2010

Background

Wnt5 genes belong to the large Wnt family, encoding proteins implicated into several tumorigenic and developmental processes. Phylogenetic analyses showed that Wnt5 gene has been duplicated at the divergence time of gnathostomata from agnatha. Interestingly, experimental data for some species indicated that only one of the two Wnt5 paralogs participates in the development of the endocrine pancreas. The purpose of this paper is to reexamine the phylogenetic history of the Wnt5 developmental regulators and investigate the functional shift between paralogs through comparative genomics.

Results

In this study, the phylogeny of Wnt5 genes was investigated in species belonging to protostomia and deuterostomia. Furthermore, an in silico regulatory region analysis of Wnt5 paralogs was conducted, limited to those species with insulin producing cells and pancreas, covering the evolutionary distance from agnatha to gnathostomata. Our results confirmed the Wnt5 gene duplication and additionally revealed that this duplication event included also the upstream region. Moreover, within this latter region, a conserved module was detected to which a complex of transcription factors, known to be implicated in embryonic pancreas formation, bind.

Conclusions

Results and observations presented in this study, allow us to conclude that during evolution, the Wnt5 gene has been duplicated in early vertebrates, and that some paralogs conserved a module within their regulatory region, functionally related to embryonic development of pancreas. Interestingly, our results allowed advancing a possible explanation on why the Wnt5 orthologs do not share the same function during pancreas development. As a final remark, we suggest that an in silico comparative analysis of regulatory regions, especially when associated to published experimental data, represents a powerful approach for explaining shift of roles among paralogs.

Reviewers

This article was reviewed by Sarath Janga (nominated by Sarah Teichmann), Ran Kafri (nominated by Yitzhak Pilpel), and Andrey Mironov (nominated by Mikhail Gelfand).
Hepatic steatosis secondary to capecitabine: a case report
Authors: Chin Sheray N , Kim Tae K , Siu Lillian L
Published: August 2010

Introduction

There are no known case reports of hepatic steatosis caused by oral fluoropyrimidines such as capecitabine. With increasing use of capecitabine since its approval for the treatment of metastatic colon cancer in 2001, and more recently for adjuvant treatment of colon cancer and treatment of metastatic breast cancer, we can anticipate increased recognition of potential toxicities associated with this 5-fluorouracil derivative.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 74-year-old Armenian woman who received capecitabine as adjuvant treatment for colon cancer and subsequently developed abnormal liver biochemical tests and radiographic findings in keeping with hepatic steatosis. There was complete reversal of liver enzyme abnormalities with discontinuation of the drug and this patient represents a case of reversible liver injury due to capecitabine.

Conclusion

In this original case report, capecitabine use was associated with hepatic steatosis. It is important for clinicians to recognize and monitor for this potential toxicity, which may be a cause of abnormal liver enzymes in this patient population.
Cardiac tamponade mimicking tuberculous pericarditis as the initial presentation of chronic lymphocytic leukemia in a 58-year-old woman: a case report
Authors: Lin Elaine , Boire Adrienne , Hemmige Vagish , Husain Aliya N , Sorrentino Matthew , Nathan Sandeep , Akhter Shahab A , Dickstein Jerome , Archer Stephen L
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is an indolent disease that often presents with complaints of lymphadenopathy or is detected as an incidental laboratory finding. It is rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with tamponade or a large, bloody pericardial effusion. In patients without known cancer, a large, bloody pericardial effusion raises the possibility of tuberculosis, particularly in patients from endemic areas. However, the signs, symptoms and laboratory findings of pericarditis related to chronic lymphocytic leukemia can mimic tuberculosis.

Case Presentation

We report the case of a 58-year-old African American-Nigerian woman with a history of travel to Nigeria and a positive tuberculin skin test who presented with cardiac tamponade. She had a mild fever, lymphocytosis and a bloody pericardial effusion, but cultures and stains were negative for acid-fast bacteria. Assessment of blood by flow cytometry and pericardial biopsy by immunohistochemistry revealed CD5 (+) and CD20 (+) lymphocytes in both tissues, demonstrating this to be an unusual manifestation of early stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Conclusion

Although most malignancies that involve the pericardium clinically manifest elsewhere before presenting with tamponade, this case illustrates the potential for early stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia to present as a large pericardial effusion with tamponade. Moreover, the presentation mimicked tuberculosis. This case also demonstrates that it is possible to treat chronic lymphocytic leukemia-related pericardial tamponade by removal of the fluid without chemotherapy.
Predictors for good functional outcome after neurocritical care
Authors: Kiphuth Ines C , Schellinger Peter D , Köhrmann Martin , Bardutzky Jürgen , Lücking Hannes , Kloska Stephan , Schwab Stefan , Huttner Hagen B
Published: August 2010

Introduction

There are only limited data on the long-term outcome of patients receiving specialized neurocritical care. In this study we analyzed survival, long-term mortality and functional outcome after neurocritical care and determined predictors for good functional outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated 796 consecutive patients admitted to a non-surgical neurologic intensive care unit over a period of two years (2006 and 2007). Demographic and clinical parameters were analyzed. Depending on the diagnosis, we grouped patients according to their diseases (cerebral ischemia, intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), meningitis/encephalitis, epilepsy, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and myasthenia gravis (MG), neurodegenerative diseases and encephalopathy, cerebral neoplasm and intoxication). Clinical parameters, mortality and functional outcome of all treated patients were analyzed. Functional outcome (using the modified Rankin Scale, mRS) one year after discharge was assessed by a mailed questionnaire or telephone interview. Outcome was dichotomized into good (mRS ≤ 2) and poor (mRS ≥ 3). Logistic regression analyses were calculated to determine independent predictors for good functional outcome.

Results

Overall in-hospital mortality amounted to 22.5% of all patients, and a good long-term functional outcome was achieved in 28.4%. The parameters age, length of ventilation (LOV), admission diagnosis of ICH, GBS/MG, and inoperable cerebral neoplasm as well as Therapeutic Intervention Scoring System (TISS)-28 on Day 1 were independently associated with functional outcome after one year.

Conclusions

This investigation revealed that age, LOV and TISS-28 on Day 1 were strongly predictive for the outcome. The diagnoses of hemorrhagic stroke and cerebral neoplasm leading to neurocritical care predispose for functional dependence or death, whereas patients with GBS and MG are more likely to recover after neurocritical care.
Approach to the Patient with Diabetes during Pregnancy
Authors: Hone Jennifer , Jovanovič Lois
Published: August 2010

The epidemics of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) globally are paralleling an increase in the number of women with T2DM becoming pregnant. Because T2DM is frequently undiagnosed before pregnancy, the risk of major malformations in the developing fetus is increased due to uncontrolled hyperglycemia. The lack of preconception care and the increase in complications of pregnancy due to the coexistence of obesity and T2DM are of concern from both an individual and a public health standpoint. Rapid achievement of normoglycemia with limited weight gain is critical to optimize maternal and fetal outcomes in all women with diabetes during pregnancy, regardless of the type of diabetes. This article will focus on T2DM preceding pregnancy due to its increasing prevalence and potentially dire fetal and maternal consequences. Euglycemia before, during, and after all pregnancies complicated by diabetes results in the best opportunity for optimal outcomes for mother and infant.
Elevated expression of protein kinase Cδ induces cell scattering upon serum deprivation
Authors: Chen Chien-Lin , Chan Po-Chao , Wang Shang-Hwen , Pan Yi-Ru , Chen Hong-Chen
Published: August 2010

Tumor metastasis might be evoked in response to microenvironmental stress, such as a shortage of oxygen. Although the cellular response to hypoxia has been well established, we know little about how tumors adapt themselves to deprivation of growth factor. Protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ), a stress-sensitive protein kinase, has been implicated in tumor progression. In this study, we demonstrate that elevated expression of PKCδ in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells induces a scatter response upon serum starvation, a condition that mimics growth-factor deprivation. Serum starvation stimulates the catalytic activity and Y311 phosphorylation of PKCδ through reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the Src family kinases. Mutation of PKCδ at Y311 and Y322, both of which are phosphorylation sites for Src, impairs its activation and ability to promote cell scattering upon serum deprivation. Once activated by ROS, PKCδ itself activates ROS production at least partially through NADPH oxidase. In addition, the c-Jun N-terminal kinase is identified as a crucial downstream mediator of ROS and PKCδ for induction of cell scattering upon serum deprivation. We demonstrate that the C1B domain of PKCδ is essential not only for its localization at the Golgi complex, but also for its activation and ability to induce cell scattering upon serum deprivation. Finally, depletion of PKCδ in human bladder carcinoma T24 cells restores their cell–cell contacts, which thereby reverses a scattered growth pattern to an epithelial-like growth pattern. Collectively, our results suggest that elevated expression of PKCδ might facilitate the scattering of cells in order to escape stress induced by growth-factor deprivation.
The Effect of Fast Food Restaurants on Obesity and Weight Gain
Authors: Currie Janet , DellaVigna Stefano , Moretti Enrico , Pathania Vikram
Published: August 2010

We investigate how changes in the supply of fast food restaurants affect weight outcomes of 3 million children and 3 million pregnant women. Among ninth graders, a fast food restaurant within 0.1 miles of a school results in a 5.2 percent increase in obesity rates. Among pregnant women, a fast-food restaurant within 0.5 miles of residence results in a 1.6 percent increase in the probability of gaining over 20 kilos. The implied effects on caloric intake are one order of magnitude larger for children than for mothers, consistent with smaller travel cost for adults. Non-fast food restaurants and future fast-food restaurants are uncorrelated with weight outcomes. (JEL I12, J13, J16, L83)
Capturing Consumption Flexibility in Assortment Choice from Scanner Panel Data
Authors: Guo Liang
Published: August 2010

This study develops and estimates a model to empirically identify two behavioral effects (namely consumption flexibility and state dependence) that may underlie temporal and horizontal assortment choice, using scanner panel data where consumption information is unavailable. The proposed approach permits a consumer's consumption utility to be dependent on previous consumptions, thus capturing state dependence both across purchase occasions and within horizontal assortments. Moreover, consumers' purchase and consumption decisions are modeled at two distinctive and sequentially related stages, which allows for incorporating the effect of consumption flexibility. The model is estimated on scanner panel data of yogurt purchase. It is found that the two captured effects provide strong empirical support with face validity for the temporal and horizontal assortment choice patterns observed in the data. The behavioral insights derived from estimating the proposed model can also be translated into significant managerial implications.
Do Inventory and Gross Margin Data Improve Sales Forecasts for U.S. Public Retailers?
Authors: Kesavan Saravanan , Gaur Vishal , Raman Ananth
Published: August 2010

Firm-level sales forecasts for retailers can be improved if we incorporate cost of goods sold, inventory, and gross margin (defined by us as the ratio of sales to cost of goods sold) as three endogenous variables. We construct a simultaneous equations model, estimated using public financial and nonfinancial data, to provide joint forecasts of annual cost of goods sold, inventory, and gross margin for retailers using historical data. We show that sales forecasts from this model are more accurate than consensus forecasts from equity analysts. Further, the residuals from this model for one fiscal year are used to predict retailers for whom the relative advantage of model forecasts over consensus forecasts would be large in the next fiscal year. Our results show that historical inventory and gross margin contain information useful to forecast sales, and that equity analysts do not fully utilize this information in their sales forecasts.
DVD Reviews
Authors: Mertens Jacob , Bettwy Shea , Courtemanche Stephanie , Brewis Deborah , Johnson Kelly , McKnight Ryan , Peters William Reid
Published: August 2010

Ballast
(2008) USA Director: Lance Hammer Runtime: 96 minutes USA, 2009 Produced and Distributed by Kino International (Region 1)

Amreeka
(2009) USA Director: Cherien Dabis Runtime: 96 minutes USA, 2009 Produced by First Generation Films and Distributed
by National Geographic (Region 1)

Unmistaken Child
(2008) Israel Director: Nati Baratz Runtime: 102 minutes USA, 2009 Produced by Samsara Films (Region 1) and Distributed by Oscilloscope Pictures

Dillinger Is Dead
(1969) Italy Director: Marco Ferreri Runtime:
95 minutes USA, 2010 Produced and Distributed by The Criterion Collection (Region 1)

Paranoid Park
(2007) USA Director: Gus Van Sant Runtime: 84 minutes USA, 2008 Produced by MK2 and Meno Film Company and Distributed by IFC Films (Region 1)

Whom Shall I Blame?: Trouble
the Water
(2008) USA Director: Carl Deal and Tia Lessen Runtime: 93 minutes USA, 2008 Produced and Distributed by Zeitgeist Video (Region 1)

Tulpan
(2008) Kazakhstan Director: Sergey Dvortsevoy Runtime: 100 minutes USA, 2009 Produced and Distributed by Zeitgeist Films
(Region 1)
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Reveals the Neural Substrates of Arm Transport and Grip Formation in Reach-to-Grasp Actions in Humans
Authors: Cavina-Pratesi Cristiana , Monaco Simona , Fattori Patrizia , Galletti Claudio , McAdam Teresa D. , Quinlan Derek J. , Goodale Melvyn A. , Culham Jody C.
Published: August 2010

Picking up a cup requires transporting the arm to the cup (transport component) and preshaping the hand appropriately to grasp the handle (grip component). Here, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine the human neural substrates of the transport component and its relationship with the grip component. Participants were shown three-dimensional objects placed either at a near location, adjacent to the hand, or at a far location, within reach but not adjacent to the hand. Participants performed three tasks at each location as follows: (1) touching the object with the knuckles of the right hand; (2) grasping the object with the right hand; or (3) passively viewing the object. The transport component was manipulated by positioning the object in the far versus the near location. The grip component was manipulated by asking participants to grasp the object versus touching it. For the first time, we have identified the neural substrates of the transport component, which include the superior parieto-occipital cortex and the rostral superior parietal lobule. Consistent with past studies, we found specialization for the grip component in bilateral anterior intraparietal sulcus and left ventral premotor cortex; now, however, we also find activity for the grasp even when no transport is involved. In addition to finding areas specialized for the transport and grip components in parietal cortex, we found an integration of the two components in dorsal premotor cortex and supplementary motor areas, two regions that may be important for the coordination of reach and grasp.
Universal screening detects two-times more thyroid disorders in early pregnancy than targeted high-risk case finding
Authors: Horacek Jiri , Spitalnikova Sylvie , Dlabalova Blanka , Malirova Eva , Vizda Jaroslav , Svilias Ioannis , Cepkova Jitka , Mc Grath Catherine , Maly Jaroslav
Published: August 2010

Objective

Screening of thyroid disorders in pregnancy has been controversial. Recent recommendations favour targeted high-risk case finding, though this approach may miss a significant number of those affected. We aimed to assess the prevalence of accepted high-risk criteria in women with autoimmune thyroiditis and/or hypothyroidism detected from universal screening in an iodine-sufficient population.

Design

In 400 non-selected women in the 9–11th gestational week, thyroid-related tests were performed, and those with abnormalities were offered consultation.

Methods

TSH was determined by IRMA, and the upper cut-off value for screening was set at 3.5 mIU/l. For free thyroxine (FT4) and thyroperoxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab), RIAs were used, with cut-offs of <10 pmol/l and >50 IU/ml respectively. Endocrinological consultation included Doppler ultrasonography and was aimed to confirm autoimmune thyroiditis and/or hypothyroidism. The prevalence of consensus high-risk criteria was assessed.

Results

Among the 400 women, 65 (16.3%) had ≥1 abnormality: higher TSH was found in 10.3%, lower FT4 in 2% and positive TPO-Ab in 8.3%. Fifty-one women were examined and followed up. Levo-T4 treatment was initiated in 49 women for autoimmune thyroiditis (in 42), hypothyroidism (in 34) or both (in 27). Only 22 (45%) of 49 treated women fulfilled ≥1 high-risk criterion: most commonly family history (31%), history of miscarriage or preterm delivery (14%) and personal history (8%).

Conclusions

Over half (55%) of pregnant women with abnormalities suggestive of autoimmune thyroiditis and/or hypothyroidism would be missed if only those with high-risk criteria were examined. A more extensive screening of thyroid autoimmunity and dysfunction seems warranted.
Pituitary gland metastasis from renal cell carcinoma presented as a non-functioning macroadenoma
Authors: Kramer Caroline Kaercher , Ferreira Nélson , Silveiro Sandra Pinho , Gross Jorge Luiz , Dora José Miguel , Azevedo Mirela Jobim de
Published: August 2010

Metastatic tumors involving the pituitary gland are an uncommon finding and occur in up to 1% of all pituitary tumor resections. A 74-year-old man had progressive vision deterioration, over the 30 days prior to consultation. He did not complain of headache or polyuria, but referred to intestinal constipation. Five years ago, he underwent a right radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy for lung and parotid metastases. On ophthalmologic examination, there was a left abducens nerve palsy and bitemporal hemianopia. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a sellar mass with suprasellar cistern extension compressing the optic chiasm. Endocrinological evaluation revealed central adrenal and gonadal insufficiencies. The patient underwent a transsphenoidal tumor resection that revealed renal cell carcinoma. This case illustrates that metastatic pituitary lesions can mimic typical symptoms and signs of pituitary macroadenoma. Furthermore, clinical diabetes insipidus, a common finding of pituitary metastases, can be absent.
Soil carbon and nitrogen mineralization caused by pig slurry application under different soil tillage systems
Authors: Balota Elcio Liborio , Machineski Oswaldo , Truber Priscila Viviane
Published: August 2010

The objective of this work was to evaluate the change in soil C and N mineralization due to successive pig slurry application under conventional tillage (CT) and no tillage (NT) systems. The experiment was carried out in a clayey Latossolo Vermelho eutrófico (Rhodic Eutrudox) in Palotina, PR, Brazil. Increasing doses of pig slurry (0, 30, 60 and 120 m³ ha-1 per year) were applied in both tillage systems, with three replicates. Half of the pig slurry was applied before summer soil preparation, and the other half before the winter crop season. The areas were cultivated with soybean (Glycine max L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) in the summers of 1998 and 1999, respectively, and with wheat (Triticum sativum Lam.) in the winters of both years. Soil samples were collected at 0-5, 5-10, and 10-20 cm depths. Under both CT and NT systems, pig slurry application increased C and N mineralization. However, increasing pig slurry additions decreased the C to N mineralization ratio. Under the NT system, C and N mineralization was greater than in CT system.
Inventário de expectativas de resultados em usuários de maconha (IERUM): construção e validação
Authors: Pedroso Rosemeri Siqueira , Castro Maria da Graça Tanori de , Araujo Renata Brasil
Published: August 2010

Introdução: Este estudo apresenta a construção e validação do Inventário de Expectativas de Resultados em Usuários de Maconha (IERUM), o qual avalia as expectativas de resultados em relação ao uso de maconha, podendo ser importante no tratamento e prognóstico dos dependentes químicos dessa substância. Método: O estudo foi realizado em uma amostra de 181 sujeitos usuários de maconha, homens (n = 145) e mulheres (n = 36), entre 18 e 55 anos (28,34±8,57); 118 estavam internados em unidade de dependência química, 23 em tratamento ambulatorial, 25 em grupo de autoajuda (narcóticos anônimos, alcoólatras anônimos) e 15 não estavam em tratamento. A escala de 17 itens foi criada a partir da experiência em dependência química e em validação de escalas, sendo realizada primeiramente a validação semântica. Resultados: De acordo com a análise fatorial, o IERUM dividiu-se em cinco fatores (aspectos emocionais, percepção, craving, aspectos cognitivos e sexualidade) que responderam por 60,18% da variância. Conclusão: O IERUM apresentou bons resultados psicométricos, podendo avaliar as expectativas de resultados relacionadas ao uso de maconha.
Produtividade de cebola em cultivo orgânico utilizando composto à base de dejetos de suínos
Authors: Vidigal Sanzio M , Sediyama Maria Aparecida N , Pedrosa Marinalva W , Santos Marlei R dos
Published: August 2010

O trabalho foi conduzido em Oratórios-MG com objetivo de avaliar o estado nutricional, a produtividade e a extração de nutrientes pela cebola, cv. CNPH 6400, em sistema orgânico, submetida a doses de composto orgânico. O delineamento experimental foi de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições, e os tratamentos consistiram de cinco doses de composto orgânico à base de dejeto sólido de suíno (0; 10; 20; 30 e 60 t ha-1). As mudas foram transplantadas aos 49 dias após a semeadura (DAS). A colheita ocorreu aos 168 DAS e a produtividade máxima de bulbos comercializáveis foi de 60,3 t ha-1, estimada com a aplicação de 43,4 t ha-1 de composto. A máxima produção de bulbos da classe 3 foi de 33,3 t ha-1, estimada com 32 t ha-1 de composto. Na classe 4 a produção foi crescente e na classe 2 a resposta decresceu com as doses. A produção máxima de matéria seca de bulbos foi estimada em 6.271 kg ha-1 com 46 t ha-1 de composto. Com a aplicação de 43,4 t ha-1 de composto orgânico, a exportação de nutrientes pelos bulbos corresponde a 116,65 kg ha-1 de N; 22,71 kg ha-1 de P; 117,65 kg ha-1 de K; 19,47 kg ha-1 de Ca; 8,31 kg ha-1 de Mg e 19,94 kg ha-1 de S. A aplicação de 43 t ha-1 de composto orgânico é suficiente para a obtenção de bulbos com ótima qualidade e produtividade. A cv. CNPH 6400 pode ser recomendada para o cultivo em sistema orgânico na região.
O construtivismo no estudo das relações internacionais
Authors: Adler Emanuel
Published: August 2010

A abordagem construtivista no estudo das relações internacionais é submetida a um exame, com ênfase nas questões epistemológicas que ela suscita e na importância da dimensão sócio-cognitiva na sua formulação e aplicação.
Capacidade funcional em indivíduos com lesão de medula espinhal
Authors: Rabeh Soraia Assad Nasbine , Caliri Maria Helena Larcher
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVOS: Investigar características de indivíduos com lesão de medula espinhal atendidos em hospitais públicos de Ribeirão Preto - São Paulo, e avaliar a independência funcional segundo nível de lesão, tempo pós-lesão e reabilitação. MÉTODOS: Estudo de observação transversal realizado de janeiro de 2003 a julho 2006 abrangendo 22 pacientes atendidos nesses hospitais, com avaliação da capacidade funcional pela escala Medida de Independência Funcional (MIF). RESULTADOS: Dos 22 pacientes que sobreviveram após saída hospitalar, 91% eram homens, com idade de 30 a 39 anos (36,4%). A etiologia principal da referida lesão foi acidente de trânsito (50%) e 11 pacientes (50%), tiveram lesão cervical, 10 (45,5%) lesão torácica e um lesão lombar. Nos indivíduos com lesão cervical os escores na MIF total e motora foram menores implicando em menor capacidade funcional. Observou-se aumento dos escores da MIF com o aumento do tempo pós-lesão, independente da participação em programa de reabilitação. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados apontam aspectos essenciais para a proposição de programa de reabilitação para esta população no contexto estudado.
Cotidiano da família no enfrentamento da condição crônica na infância
Authors: Silva Mônica de Assis Salviano , Collet Neusa , Silva Kenya de Lima , Moura Flávia Moura de
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Identificar alterações desencadeadas no cotidiano da família que vivencia a experiência de doença crônica na infância. MÉTODOS: Pesquisa qualitativa do tipo exploratória descritiva. Realizou-se o trabalho de campo em um hospital escola do Estado da Paraíba envolvendo como sujeitos, seis acompanhantes das crianças hospitalizadas por doença crônica. A técnica de coleta dos dados foi a entrevista semi-estruturada. Na análise dos dados foram observados os princípios da análise temática. RESULTADOS: As alterações mais relevantes vivenciadas pelas famílias incluem as dificuldades financeiras, para atender as novas demandas da criança, e de acesso a serviços de saúde. Sentimentos como medo, dúvidas e insegurança compuseram o cenário familiar. CONCLUSÃO: Destaca-se que as famílias demonstraram interesse em ser incluídas no cuidado e em falar de seus sentimentos, ressaltando-se a importância da escuta sensível. Estabelecer vínculos e formar parcerias é um dos caminhos para a reconstrução humanizadora das práticas em saúde.
Dimensionamento de pessoal de enfermagem em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva para adultos
Authors: Inoue Kelly Cristina , Matsuda Laura Misue
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Analisar o dimensionamento do pessoal de enfermagem da Unidade de Terapia Intensiva de Adultos (UTI-A) através da aplicação do Nursing Activities Score (NAS) e da Resolução COFEN n.º 293/2004. MÉTODOS: Pesquisa descritiva, exploratória realizada na UTI-A de um hospital-escola do Paraná, entre novembro/2007 e maio/2008. A população constituiu-se de 107 pacientes que permaneceram mais de 24 horas nessa unidade. RESULTADOS: De acordo com os resultados, a média do NAS (697,3 pontos) aponta para alta carga de trabalho de enfermagem; a equipe de enfermagem do setor deve contar com 40 profissionais em ao invés de 28; a proporção de 35,7% de enfermeiros não corresponde com o recomendado que é de 52,5%. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de algumas limitações do instrumento NAS para mensurar a carga de trabalho de enfermagem em UTI e do Índice de Segurança Técnica empírico, recomendado nacionalmente, concluiu-se que os dois métodos utilizados contribuem para um dimensionamento do pessoal de enfermagem mais adequado às necessidades desse serviço.
Ensino da Bioética na formação do enfermeiro: interface com a bibliografia adotada
Authors: Mascarenhas Nildo Batista , Santa Rosa Darci de Oliveira
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Identificar e descrever as fontes bibliográficas, utilizadas pelos docentes no ensino da Ética/Bioética em Enfermagem nos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem de Salvador-BA. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo exploratório, quanti-qualitativo. A análise dos dados teve três momentos e foi guiada pelas temáticas da Ética, Bioética e Exercício Profissional. RESULTADOS: A análise dos dados de cinco cursos, mostrou que os docentes adotam obras que contemplam aspectos relacionados à deontologia, exercício da enfermagem, fundamentos da Bioética e da Ética. CONCLUSÃO: O ensino da Ética/Bioética nos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem de Salvador não se restringe a uma abordagem deontológica e fornece os subsídios básicos para a reflexão crítica e moral dos futuros enfermeiros.
Morte e morrer: sentimentos e condutas de estudantes de enfermagem
Authors: Vargas Divane de
Published: August 2010

OBJETIVO: Identificar as condutas e os sentimentos de estudantes de enfermagem frente a uma situação hipotética, envolvendo a morte e o morrer. MÉTODOS: Estudo exploratório qualitativo com dados coletados por meio de um questionário autoaplicável em amostra de 51 estudantes de enfermagem de uma faculdade privada do Norte do Estado de São Paulo e submetidos à análise temática de conteúdo. RESULTADOS: Esses estudantes de enfermagem não estão preparados para lidar com situações que envolvem a morte e o morrer e tendem a negar a situação, apresentando condutas inadequadas frente ao paciente com morte iminente. Os sentimentos que mais emergiram nesses sujeitos frente à morte foram a perda e o medo. CONCLUSÃO: Há necessidade de que maior atenção seja dada à temática durante a formação dos enfermeiros com vistas a prepará-los para o enfrentamento das situações que envolvem a morte e o morrer no cotidiano das práticas curriculares.
Doação de órgãos e tecidos: relação com o corpo em nossa sociedade
Authors: Roza Bartira De Aguiar , Garcia Valter Duro , Barbosa Sayonara de Fátima Faria , Mendes Karina Dal Sasso , Schirmer Janine
Published: August 2010

Este estudo, de revisão bibliográfica, objetivou tecer considerações teóricas sobre doação de órgãos e tecidos e sua relação com o corpo em nossa sociedade. O aumento da taxa de doação depende de um olhar ampliado além das questões técnicas do processo de doação de órgãos e tecidos. Vários países, com larga experiência temporal e, que trabalham sistematicamente nesse processo, incorporaram a abordagem social e a perspectiva ética, baseadas no voluntarismo das famílias e no respeito ao direito de autonomia dos potenciais doadores. O acompanhamento do corpo, pós-doação, solicitado pelas famílias, representa o início do luto pela morte de um parente, parte da prática de ritual fúnebre cultuada em nossa sociedade. As ações que asseguram uma sequência ético-legal, definida na legislação dos transplantes, pressupõem compromisso com a qualidade e segurança do processo de doação de órgãos e tecidos, que deve ser rigorosamente perseguida pelos profissionais que trabalham na área. Espera-se, assim, que essas atitudes construam uma cultura positiva sobre a doação no país, contribuindo, a longo prazo, para o aumento nas taxas de doação.