bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Influencing Discharge Destination After Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Schwarzkopf Ran , Ho Jenny , Snir Nimrod , Mukamel Dana D.
Published: July 2015

Introduction:

With this growing demand, the length of stay for total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures has decreased, and as a trade-off, we have seen a higher utilization of extended care facilities (ECFs). Both trends have significant economic implications on the health care system, and predicting the discharge destinations of THA patients would help policy makers plan for future health expenditures. We performed a retrospective data analysis of a large patient database to determine which variables are significant in predicting discharge destinations of THA patients.

Methods:

We used the California Hospital Discharge data set of the year 2010, collected and provided by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development. The data set includes information about patient demographics, insurance type, diagnoses and procedures, and patient disposition. The study cohort included 14 326 patients. Discharge to home was the reference category. Discharge to ECF and discharge to home with home care were the 2 additional alternatives.

Results:

In all, 46.9% of patients were discharged home with home health care, followed by 29.6% to ECF, and 23.5% to home without care. Discharge to ECF was more likely for patients with more comorbidities and a higher age. The strongest predictors were Medicaid and black or Asian race. Medicare relative to private payer was a strong predictor of ECF discharge. Male gender was the only factor that lowered the risk of discharge to ECF. The strongest predictor for discharge to home with home care was black race relative to whites. Medicaid lowered the risk of home care, and gender did not matter.

Conclusion:

This study serves to provide insight on which patient characteristics influence discharge destination after THA. Race, insurance, and morbidity were highly significant factors on patient discharge destination to a subacute nursing facility.
Identifying Chronic Conditions and Other Selected Factors That Motivate Physical Activity in World Senior Games Participants and the General Population
Authors: Merrill Ray M. , Bowen Elise , Hager Ron L.
Published: July 2015

This study assesses chronic disease or disease-related conditions as motivators of physical activity. It also compares these and other motivators of physical activity between Senior Games participants (SGPs) and the general population. Analyses are based on an anonymous cross-sectional survey conducted among 666 SGPs and 177 individuals from the general population. SGPs experienced better general health and less obesity, diabetes, and depression, as well as an average of 14.7 more years of regular physical activity ( p < .0001), 130.8 more minutes per week of aerobic activity ( p < .0001), and 42.7 more minutes of anaerobic activity per week ( p < .0001). Among those previously told they had diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or depression, 74.2%, 72.2%, 70.4%, and 60.6%, respectively, said that it motivated them to increase their physical activity. Percentages were similar between SGPs and the general population. SGPs were more likely motivated to be physically active to improve physical and mental health in the present, to prevent physical and cognitive decline in the future, and to increase social opportunities. The Senior Games reinforces extrinsic motivators to positively influence intrinsic promoters such as skill development, satisfaction of learning, enjoyment, and fun.
Dissimilar friction stir welding of duplex stainless steel to low alloy structural steel
Authors: Logan B. P. , Toumpis A. I. , Galloway A. M. , McPherson N. A. , Hambling S. J.
Published: July 2015

In the present study, 6 mm nominal thickness dissimilar steel plates were joined using friction stir welding. The materials used were duplex stainless steel and low alloy structural steel. The weld was assessed by metallographic examination and mechanical testing (transverse tensile and fatigue). Microstructural examination identified four distinct weld zones and a substantially hard region within the stir zone at the base of the weld tool pin. Fatigue specimens demonstrated high level fatigue life and identified four distinct fracture modes.
Contribution of inflammation and impaired angiogenesis to the pathobiology of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Quarck Rozenn , Wynants Marijke , Verbeken Erik , Meyns Bart , Delcroix Marion
Published: July 2015

Deficient angiogenesis and systemic inflammation could be involved in the pathophysiology of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). We aimed to characterise the histopathology of pulmonary vascular lesions from 52 CTEPH patients who underwent a pulmonary endarterectomy (PEA) and investigate a potential link between clinical, biological and morphometric parameters.

Collagen, elastin, fibrin, lipid, endothelial, smooth muscle and inflammatory cell content was investigated using immunohistochemistry. Qualitative changes were evaluated using severity scores. Circulating levels of inflammatory mediators were measured using ELISA.

Neointima, thrombotic, recanalised and atherosclerotic lesions were found. Accumulation of macrophages, T-lymphocytes and neutrophils was found mainly in atherosclerotic and thrombotic lesions. Angiogenesis was observed in all kinds of lesions; low-scored angiogenesis predicted adverse outcome, including persistent pulmonary hypertension post-PEA, start of medical therapy and poor survival. C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-10, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, macrophage inflammatory protein-1α and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 were significantly elevated in CTEPH patients. Plasma CRP and MMP-9 levels correlated with neutrophil and macrophage accumulation, respectively.

Enhanced systemic inflammation parallels local inflammatory cell infiltration in major pulmonary arteries at advanced stages of CTEPH. Impaired neovascularisation is associated with poor survival, start of medical treatment and persistent pulmonary hypertension post-PEA. These findings suggest that inflammation and impaired angiogenesis could contribute to the progression of the disease.
The impact of obstructive sleep apnoea on the aorta
Authors: Gaisl Thomas , Bratton Daniel J. , Kohler Malcolm
Published: July 2015

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) has been shown to be a causal factor in the pathogenesis of vascular dysfunction and hypertension, conditions which can promote dilation and subsequent aortic dissection and rupture. The objective of this review is to summarise the current literature on the possible association between OSA and aortic disease and delineate the underlying mechanisms.

Relevant studies were found by searching for terms including “obstructive sleep apnoea” in combination with “aortic aneurysm, dissection, and dilation” in the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases.

Observational studies consistently reported that OSA is highly prevalent among patients with aortic aneurysms and aortic dissections. Patients with co-occurring OSA and Marfan's syndrome as well as patients at the more severe end of the spectrum of OSA seem to be especially vulnerable to aortic disease.

Several mechanisms are discussed concerning the link between OSA and aortic disease: nocturnal negative intrathoracic pressure surges leading to mechanical stretching of the aorta and ultimately aortic distension; arousal-induced reflex sympathetic activation with subsequent hypertension; and intermittent hypoxia associated with autonomic nervous system activation and consequently increased oxidative stress. Further well controlled studies are needed in order to define the exact role of OSA as a risk factor for aortic disease.
Tubedown regulation of retinal endothelial permeability signaling pathways
Authors: Ho Nhu , Gendron Robert L. , Grozinger Kindra , Whelan Maria A. , Hicks Emily Anne , Tennakoon Bimal , Gardiner Danielle , Good William V. , Paradis Hélène
Published: July 2015

Tubedown (Tbdn; Naa15), a subunit of the N-terminal acetyltransferase NatA, complexes with the c-Src substrate Cortactin and supports adult retinal homeostasis through regulation of vascular permeability. Here we investigate the role of Tbdn expression on signaling components of retinal endothelial permeability to understand how Tbdn regulates the vasculature and supports retinal homeostasis. Tbdn knockdown-induced hyperpermeability to Albumin in retinal endothelial cells was associated with an increase in the levels of activation of the Src family kinases (SFK) c-Src, Fyn and Lyn and phospho-Cortactin (Tyr421). The knockdown of Cortactin expression reduced Tbdn knockdown-induced permeability to Albumin and the levels of activated SFK. Inhibition of SFK in retinal endothelial cells decreased Tbdn knockdown-induced permeability to Albumin and phospho-Cortactin (Tyr421) levels. Retinal lesions of endothelial-specific Tbdn knockdown mice, with tissue thickening, fibrovascular growth, and hyperpermeable vessels displayed an increase in the levels of activated c-Src. Moreover, the retinal lesions of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) associated with a loss of Tbdn expression and hyperpermeability to Albumin displayed increased levels of activated SFK in retinal blood vessels. Taken together, these results implicate Tbdn as an important regulator of retinal endothelial permeability and homeostasis by modulating a signaling pathway involving c-Src and Cortactin.
Effects of Niobium Addition into TiO2 Layers on CH3NH3PbI3-based Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Oku Takeo , Iwata Taishi , Suzuki Atsushi
Published: July 2015

TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3-based photovoltaic devices were fabricated by a spin-coating method using a mixture solution of niobium(V) ethoxide, and the effects of niobium (Nb) addition to TiO2 layers were investigated. The lattice distance and energy gap of the TiO2 were almost same after Nb addition. The elemental mapping and sheet resistance measurements indicated a wide distribution of Nb and Ti, and a decrease in sheet resistance by Nb addition. The external quantum efficiency and internal quantum efficiency increased by Nb addition to compact TiO2 and mesoporous TiO2 layers, which resulted in an increase in the current density and conversion efficiency of the cell.
Synthesis of Phenylenevinylene Oligothiophene Derivatives with and without Cyano Side Substitution and Evaluation of Optoelectronic Characteristics
Authors: Kondo Mizuho , Inoue Yukihiro , Koeduka Yuki , Funahashi Masahiro , Heya Akira , Matsuo Naoto , Kawatsuki Nobuhiro
Published: July 2015

Two types of phenylenevinylene terthiophene with and without cyano side substitution were synthesized to investigate the effect of the molecular structure on optoelectronic properties. The oligothiophene with cyano side substitution exhibited large bathochromic effect and behaved as organic electron acceptors with decrease in field effect conductivity due to increase in dipole moment.
Control and Supervision in Education: FAQ on Recent Update
Authors: Фёклин  , Feklin Sergey
Published: July 2015

Federal law of 31.12.2014 № 500-FZ “On Amending Parts of Certain Legislative Acts of the Russian Federation» has significantly changed State regulation

of education in the frame of Federal law of 29.12.2012 № 273-FZ “On Education in the Russian Federation”.

Federal law of 29.12.2012 № 273-FZ “On Education in the Russian Federation” has been amended to optimize the following procedures:

– State accreditation of educational activity;

– System of actions taken by education control and supervision organs towards educational institutions, bodies of state power of the subjects of the

Russian Federation conducting governmental management of education, bodies of local self-government conductingmanagement of educationbased

on the results of inspection of federal government oversight of education and federal government control of education quality;

– Distribution and control figures of admission for professions, programs, majors and (or) groups of professions, programs, majors.

The article explicitly generalizes, explains and comments on questions coming from the bodies of state power of the subjects of the Russian Federation

exercising the authority of state control (supervision) of education.

The author covers procedural issues of control and supervision as a matter of education legislation effective since 11.12.2015.

Article consists of detailed answers to questions.
Implementation of the Requirements of the Standard in the study of Euler theorem
Authors: Васильева  , Vasileva Marina
Published: July 2015

The article describes the implementation of the requirements of the Standard in the study of Euler theorem for majorlevel.Organization

ofschoolchildren’s activelearning ofEuler theorem is displayed.Aproblematic situationofdiscovering the properties ofpolyhedron

andthe relationbetween vertices, faces and edgesnumbercombinesfrontaland independent groupwork, promotes the formationof

problem setting and solvingskillsthat form a part ofthe universalcognitivelearning activities.Problem solving, hypothesizing, pressingthe

pointrequire accurate formulation of basic supporting facts; hence a pupil develops universalcommunicativeeducationalactivities.

In subject-oriented classes studying should be systematic and serve as preparation for further education. Therefore, the use of Euler

theorem as the proof of existence of five and only five regular polyhedronsis important for understanding that in Mathematics every

statement butan axiom must be proven.
NICE recommends apixaban as an option for VTE
Authors: Linden Belinda
Published: July 2015

Belinda Linden examines recent guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), published last month, recommending apixaban as an option for the treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism
The importance of foetal movement for co-ordinated cartilage and bone developmentin utero
Authors: Shea C. A. , Rolfe R. A. , Murphy P.
Published: July 2015

Construction of a functional skeleton is accomplished through co-ordination of the developmental processes of chondrogenesis, osteogenesis, and synovial joint formation. Infants whose movement in utero is reduced or restricted and who subsequently suffer from joint dysplasia (including joint contractures) and thin hypo-mineralised bones, demonstrate that embryonic movement is crucial for appropriate skeletogenesis. This has been confirmed in mouse, chick, and zebrafish animal models, where reduced or eliminated movement consistently yields similar malformations and which provide the possibility of experimentation to uncover the precise disturbances and the mechanisms by which movement impacts molecular regulation. Molecular genetic studies have shown the important roles played by cell communication signalling pathways, namely Wnt, Hedgehog, and transforming growth factor-beta/bone morphogenetic protein. These pathways regulate cell behaviours such as proliferation and differentiation to control maturation of the skeletal elements, and are affected when movement is altered. Cell contacts to the extra-cellular matrix as well as the cytoskeleton offer a means of mechanotransduction which could integrate mechanical cues with genetic regulation. Indeed, expression of cytoskeletal genes has been shown to be affected by immobilisation. In addition to furthering our understanding of a fundamental aspect of cell control and differentiation during development, research in this area is applicable to the engineering of stable skeletal tissues from stem cells, which relies on an understanding of developmental mechanisms including genetic and physical criteria. A deeper understanding of how movement affects skeletogenesis therefore has broader implications for regenerative therapeutics for injury or disease, as well as for optimisation of physical therapy regimes for individuals affected by skeletal abnormalities.

Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2015;4:105–116
Palankiausios dimensijos „sveikata visose politikose“ požiūrio taikymui
Authors: Pukinaitė Vaida
Published: July 2015

The main strategic documents in Lithuania are based on Health in All Policies (HiAP) approach and aim to reduce social inequalities in health. However, there is still no consensus on an instrument of effective implementation or optimal and comprehensive HiAP implementation model. By using HiAP approach, governments, health and other sectors can choose from a wide range of tools, methods, policy instruments and strategies. Therefore, this article aims to identify, summarize and analyze the conducive dimensions for successful efforts of HiAP. The main idea of this article is to show that the generalization of major dimensions of HiAP can contribute to the formation of theoretical and practical HiAP model in Lithuania. HiAP dimensions in this context are understood as the main tools and methods of HiAP, which are significant for HiAP efforts and determine conducive HiAP implementation. This article aims to analyze the concept of HiAP, to show its historical development and examine the conducive dimensions for successful efforts of HiAP. Methods of scientific literature and case study analysis as well as analysis of the Lithuanian legislation and EU legislation and generalization are used in this article.
The examination of HiAP concept from the historical and present perspective showed that this approach is derived from the changes in the health concept used in international academic and practical discourse. Moreover, HiAP approach is shaped by the transnational and national commitments, international health declarations, treaties and agreements. HiAP approach focuses on the contribution of public policies to the maintenance and improvement of public health. In order to implement this approach, possibilities must be provided for various public sectors to affect health; cooperation techniques and mechanisms must be developed to coordinate the actions of various institutions, and the inclusion of the stakeholders in decision-making and development processes of public health must be encouraged. The analysis of measures and methods of HiAP allows drawing the conclusion that the conducive dimensions for successful efforts of HiAP are as follows: windows of opportunities and the promotion of the priority of health; cross-sectorial and inter-institutional cooperation and the participation of all sectors; the new role of the health sector and health sector’s leadership; shared benefits, determinants across sectors and overlapping indicators; the context and the external and internal factors.
Gydytojų ir slaugytojų požiūris į nepageidaujamų įvykių ir neatitikčių valdymą lietuvos bendrojo pobūdžio ligoninėse
Authors: Marmienė Loreta , Kalėdienė Ramunė
Published: July 2015

Adverse events and near-miss management in Lithuanian general hospitals is analyzed in this article. The aim of the paper is to evaluate the attitudes of physicians and nurses towards adverse events and near-miss management. 1020 general hospitals health care professionals took part in the anonymous survey, which was performed during the period of June - December, 2014. The results suggested that 9.9% of the respondents did not know what adverse event is, and 10.7% did not know the meaning of near-miss. Nurses compared to physicians knew much more about the process of what and where to register the adverse event or near-miss. Most of the respondents declared that it is useful to register adverse events and near-misses. Older health care professionals with longer work experience were considerably more active in this process. Most of the respondents declared that after the near-miss happens, the efforts are put to examine causes of the event, but only half of them knew further near-miss investigation steps and were instructed about the adjustment and preventive actions.
Psichikos sveikatos pagalbos po ekstremaliųjų įvykių svarba
Authors: Pitrėnaitė-Žilėnienė Birutė , Miglinė Vilma
Published: July 2015

It is forecasted that in the coming decades, Europe will inevitably be affected by very important natural and social upheavals, which can significantly affect public welfare, physical and mental health disorders. That is why it is important to prepare properly. In this context, the emphasis is to be able to effectively adapt to a rapidly changing world. Because of geophysical situation changes, a target would be to create a resistant society, which would be able to neutralize any upheaval impact and timely recover from it. War, armed conflicts, natural and technological disasters have a major psychological and social impact on the affected population. After each disaster, many people experience emotional trauma. Strong emotional upheaval can be experienced not only by those directly involved in the event and/or physical trauma victims, but also by their relatives or even an event unrelated individuals.
The purpose of this article is to analyze the current scientific literature, highlight the negative impact on the mental health of the risk factors during the emergency and substantiate the necessity to plan mental health related preventive measures.
One of the most common mental health problems after a disaster is a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Various factors may increase the risk of the development of the PTSD. Social factors play a significant role among them. Psychological resistance is strongly influenced by the perception that during emergency, support to the victims will be provided not only by family, but also by the competent authority which will properly take care of the physical and psychological comfort reset. That is why the emergency plans should include not only search, rescue and other means related to saving lives and physical health, but also means related to psychosocial support services.
It is hardly possible to develop precise scenarios/prognosis of a disaster. Therefore, flexibility, regular checking and update are essential requirements for emergency management planning. Individuals who participate in actions in response to an emergency must have a clear understanding of their role. When planning a response to the disaster, it is necessary to ensure the availability of mental health services and psychosocial support to the affected communities, according to the risk factors, which influence the development of mental health disorders. Therefore, it is extremely important to create a long-term communitybased mental health care system for response during and recovery after disasters.
Veiksmingos vaikų ir jaunimo sveikatos stiprinimo politikos priemonės fizinio aktyvumo bei sveikos mitybos srityje vietos bendruomenių suinteresuotų grupių požiūriu
Authors: Jociutė Aldona , Petronytė Gintarė
Published: July 2015

This article focuses on local stakeholders’ (policy-makers and decisionmakers, administrators and practitioners) attitudes towards effective health promotion policy measures in physical activity and healthy eating for children and youth. A qualitative study using semi-structured interview method was performed with 12 representatives of the Klaipeda city, Kaunas and Jurbarkas districts municipal institutions in July – September, 2013, implementing the international healthy eating and physical activity in a local communities’ project (HEPCOM). Based on the results, stakeholders in planning health promotion activities in physical activity and healthy eating for children and youth mainly apply policy development, strategic planning, action planning and implementation measures, however, they face the use of evaluation measures. The key prerequisites for the development of health promotion activities in physical activity and healthy eating for children and youth at the local communities include targeted health policy strategy and the priorities identified at the national level, inter-institutional cooperation, cross-sectoral activities, the availability of information on best practice interventions and their evaluation tools, as well as human, financial and information resources.
Not your stereotypical young father, not your typical teenage life
Authors: Johnson Daniel
Published: July 2015

This autobiographical account traces the experiences of a young man, now in his early twenties, through his transition into fatherhood at the age of 16, and recounts his early years as a young parent. His reflections on the joys and challenges of becoming a parent at a young age provide a compelling snapshot of some of the common issues facing young fathers as they navigate the ‘fast track’ to adulthood. He concludes by considering the value of his support networks, both professional and personal, in managing these transitions.
Design and implementing a software tool to ensure undeadlock state by perfect distribution of resources' instances among competing processes
Authors: Bakko Imad Matti , Yas Ruwaida Mohammed
Published: July 2015

In computer operating systems books, they explain and solve deadlock problems by declaring in advance the maximum needs of resources and their instances for each process, the total number of resources' instances, and the allocation of the resources' instances for each process. In this paper, we introduce an effective software tool to prove that it is not necessary to declare in advance the allocation of resources' instances for each process since we suggested and implement in the tool some equations to calculate and discover a suitable allocation of resources' instances to be distributed among competing processes in such a way that the computer system will never enter a deadlock state. In fact, the only necessary and sufficient conditions to solve deadlock problems are the total number of resources and their instances besides the maximum needs of resources and their instances for each process. The theory and details are explained with some examples in the contents.
Topological contact dynamics I: symplectization and applications of the energy-capacity inequality
Authors: Müller Stefan , Spaeth Peter
Published: July 2015

We introduce topological contact dynamics of a smooth manifold carrying a cooriented contact structure, generalizing previous work in the case of a symplectic structure [27] or a contact form [5]. A topological contact isotopy is not generated by a vector field; nevertheless, the group identities, the transformation law, and classical uniqueness results in the smooth case extend to topological contact isotopies and homeomorphisms, giving rise to an extension of smooth contact dynamics to topological dynamics. Our approach is via symplectization of a contact manifold, and our main tools are an energy-capacity inequality we prove for contact diffeomorphisms, combined with techniques from measure theory on oriented manifolds. We establish non-degeneracy of a Hofer-like bi-invariant pseudo-metric on the group of strictly contact diffeomorphisms constructed in [4]. The topological automorphism group of the contact structure exhibits rigidity properties analogous to those of symplectic diffeomorphisms, including C0-rigidity of contact and strictly contact diffeomorphisms.
Einleitung zu Georg Lukács: Warum sind Demokratien den Autokratien überlegen? und Das wirkliche Deutschland
Authors: Baehrens Konstantin
Published: July 2015

Two short typescripts by G. Lukacs from the archive, dating from 1941/42, shed light on his appraisal of the cultural ‘inner reserves’ of Germany and the ‘moral reserves’ of the democracies involved in the Second World War, as well as on Lukacs’s political philosophy at that time. The conception of an intrinsic interrelation of a humanist philosophical anthropology and rationalist epistemology elucidates his egalitarian and democratic account. Both texts are located within the intellectual development of the author in an introduction by the editor, which sketches the historical background and indicates relevant contemporaneous theoretical and political debates, such as the controversies over realism and humanism and also a dispute with K. Jaspers on German collective guilt.
A bioinspired approach to produce parahydrophobic properties using PEDOP conducting polymers with branched alkyl chains
Authors: Mortier Claudio , Darmanin Thierry , Guittard Frédéric
Published: July 2015

In nature, several plants and insects, such as theRosa montanapetals or the gecko foot, are highly hydrophobic but with an extremely high water adhesion. These properties are called parahydrophobic. Here, in order to reproduce such properties we have developed original 3,4-ethylenedioxypyrrole monomers containing branched alkyl chains in order to have intrinsically hydrophilic polymers. In certain conditions, the electrodeposited conducting polymer films are parahydrophobic due to the presence fibrous structures forming large agglomerates. On such surfaces, a water droplet deposited on them remains stuck even after a substrate inclination of 180°. Such properties are extremely interesting for applications in water harvesting, for example.
Who needs a nucleus? Tashlhiyt Berber syllabification within the onset prominence representational environment
Authors: Schwartz Geoffrey
Published: July 2015

This paper presents an analysis of Tashlhiyt Berber syllabification in the Onset Promi-nence (OP) representational framework. With a structural perspective on manner of articulation, OP captures the apparent role of sonority in TB syllabification. It is shown, however, that this does not entail the assignment of "peak" status to the most sonorous available segments in a given string. Sonority based "peak" assignment cannot account for the ambiguous behavior exhibited by syllables in with the "peak" is less sonorous than its "onset", and makes infelicitous predictions with regard to the behavior of "onsetless" syllables. By contrast, the OP environment provides mechanisms in which such ambiguities fall out from more general principles of constituent formation.
Parks Are Social
Authors: Christensen Jon
Published: July 2015

Two years ago, Jon Christensen and Stamen Design began to explore social media generated every day in California parks, open spaces and natural areas, from city centers to wilderness areas. So far, they have gathered social media from more than half a million unique users of Instragram, Flickr, Twitter, and Foursquare who have shared content in one or more of the 11,826 parks in California. The project, like this photo essay, shows that parks are social—that is, people do things in parks that they do in the rest of their lives. They also show that diverse Californians will see people like themselves in parks they do. It is hoped that representing this diversity will encourage more California to use their national, state, and local parks.
High aromatase activity in hypogonadal men is associated with higher spine bone mineral density, increased truncal fat and reduced lean mass
Authors: Aguirre Lina E , Colleluori Georgia , Fowler Kenneth E , Jan Irum Zeb , Villareal Kenneth , Qualls Clifford , Robbins David , Villareal Dennis T , Armamento-Villareal Reina
Published: July 2015

Objective

Because the aromatase enzyme catalyzes the conversion of testosterone to estradiol (E2), the activity of this enzyme could be important in the musculoskeletal health of men with low testosterone. The objective of the present study is to determine the influence of aromatase activity on the bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition of patients with hypogonadism.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

The baseline data of 90 patients between 40 and 74 years old who participated in a genetic study of response to testosterone therapy in men with low testosterone (i.e., <300 ng/dl) were analyzed. BMD and body composition were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Serum testosterone was measured by automated immunoassay, E2was measured by ultrasensitive enzyme immunoassay, and sex hormone-binding globulin was measured by enzyme immunoassay.

Results

Men in the highest tertile of E2to testosterone ratio (E2:T) had the highest spine BMD (P≤0.037), highest truncal fat (P=0.046), and lowest truncal lean body mass (P=0.045). A similar pattern was observed in the upper extremities; that is, fat mass significantly increased (P=0.047), whereas lean mass significantly decreased (P=0.034) with increasing E2:T tertiles.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that in men with hypogonadism, aromatase activity could be an important determinant of musculoskeletal health. Men with high aromatase activity are able to maintain a higher BMD despite low circulating testosterone, but they have lower lean and higher truncal fat mass as compared to those with lower aromatase activity.
Some studies on the natural history of Graves' orbitopathy: increase in orbital fat is a rather late phenomenon
Authors: Potgieser Peter W , Wiersinga Wilmar M , Regensburg Noortje I , Mourits Maarten P
Published: July 2015

Aim

To describe volumes of orbital fat (FV) and extraocular muscles (MV) in Graves' orbitopathy (GO) as a function of the duration of GO.

Patients

i) Cross-sectional survey among 95 consecutive patients with untreated GO who had been referred to the combined thyroid–eye clinics of our university hospital. ii) Longitudinal survey among 39 of the 95 patients who did not receive any therapeutic intervention and were followed for 1 year.

Methods

A computed tomography (CT)-based and well-validated method for calculating orbital soft tissues. In order to neutralize sex differences, results are expressed as ratios of FV:orbital volume (OV) and MV:OV.

Results

i) Patients with GO duration of >1 year had greater FV:OV (0.65 vs 0.55, P=0.004), similar MV:OV (0.22 vs 0.21, not significant (NS)), and more proptosis (22 mm vs 21 mm, P=0.03) as compared to those with shorter duration. ii) As compared to baseline, after 1 year, FV:OV had increased (0.56 vs 0.63, P=0.000), MV:OV had not changed (0.19 vs 0.19, NS), proptosis was higher (20 mm vs 21 mm, P=0.003), and clinical activity scores had become lower (2 vs 1, P=0.02) (median values).

Conclusion

CT images show that a longer duration of GO is associated with a higher orbital FV. Extraocular MV, however, is not associated with GO duration; rather, it is related to the severity of GO.
Indices of adiposity and thyroid hormones in euthyroid postmenopausal women
Authors: Lambrinoudaki Irene , Armeni Eleni , Rizos Demetrios , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Athanasouli Foteini , Triantafyllou Nikolaos , Panoulis Konstantinos , Augoulea Areti , Creatsa Maria , Alexandrou Andreas , Alevizaki Maria , Stamatelopoulos Kimon
Published: July 2015

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the association between thyroid hormones and indices of obesity in a sample of euthyroid postmenopausal women.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

Serum levels of TSH, free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free thyroxine (FT4) as well as BMI and waist:hip ratio (WHR) were evaluated in 194 healthy euthyroid postmenopausal women. Ultrasonography was used to assess abdominal fat layers (subcutaneous fat (SF), preperitoneal fat (PF), and SF:PF ratio). Indices of adiposity were defined as high vs low depending on the median value of the assessed parameters.

Results

After multivariate adjustment for traditional risk factors, lower FT4levels and a higher FT3:FT4ratio predicted higher SF mass (FT4, Exp(β)=0.035,P=0.020 and FT3:FT4, Exp(β)=2.374,P=0.018), whereas higher FT3predicted higher PF mass (Exp(β)=2.815,P=0.032). Women with FT3:FT4above the highest quartile had a significantly higher SF mass as compared to women in the lowest quartile (1.81±0.62 cm vs 1.54±0.46 cm,P=0.027). BMI had a positive independent association with TSH (Exp(β)=1.829,P=0.018). Finally, FT3was significantly associated with SF mass among women with higher BMI (FT3,β=0.259,P=0.040) and women with higher WHR (β=0.309,P=0.020) but not among women with lower BMI or WHR values.

Conclusion

Thyroid hormone levels, and in particular FT3, were independently associated with SF and PF in euthyroid postmenopausal women, and this association was mainly evident in women with higher BMIs. On the other hand, among traditional indices of adiposity, only TSH was positively associated with BMI. Larger prospective studies are needed to evaluate the significance of the present findings.
La Pérdida Del Monopolio En El Ejercicio de la Acción Penal y los Límites Constitucionales de su Regulación En Colombia
Authors: Acuña Christian Eduardo Matusan , Peña Edwin Manuel Chaves
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo lleva a cabo un análisis reflexivo del acto legislativo 6 de 2011 por medio del cual se autorizó el ejercicio de la acción penal privada en Colombia. Dicho análisis consiste específicamente en precisar la relación existente entre la acción penal privada y el sistema procesal de raigambre acusatorio. A su vez, analiza los límites constitucionales que el nuevo texto constitucional impondría al legislador a la hora de reglamentar la institución mencionada. Para ello, estudiaremos los conceptos de bien jurídico, lesividad y la condición de víctima, conforme a lo señalado por la doctrina nacional y extranjera más calificada, la jurisprudencia, y el texto de las leyes nacionales pertinentes.
Límites Al Derecho De Acceso A La Información Clínica En Los Casos De Estado Necesidad Terapéutica Y Anotaciones Subjetivas. Especial Referencia Al Sistema Español
Authors: Martínez César Alberto Correa
Published: July 2015

El derecho a la información que ha cobrado fuerza a lo largo del siglo XX, siendo uno de los pilares de la atención médica y de la relación médico – paciente, tiene algunas particularidades que, aun con reconocimiento constitucional y legal, dista de ser un derecho absoluto.  Un ejemplo se encuentra en la Ley española de Autonomía del Paciente que consagra unos límites al derecho de información del paciente, específicamente dos de mucha importancia: el estado de necesidad terapéutica y las anotaciones subjetivas.  Sin embargo la ley dejó el asunto abierto y dispuesto para ser debatido.
La Implementación del Principio de Ciudadanía universal en la Constitución de Ecuador de 2008
Authors: Agudelo Germán Daniel Rodríguez , Hoyos Julián Antonio Navarro
Published: July 2015

El presente trabajo plantea una reflexión en torno al proceso teórico y político de institucionalización del principio de la Ciudadanía Universal en la Constitución de Ecuador 2008. Para lograr ese propósito, se abordan cuatro aristas: la primera, está constituida por una aproximación al aspecto teórico de la ciudadanía; la segunda, explora el nuevo constitucionalismo latinoamericano como posible marco de comprensión de esta institución y las circunstancias regionales que rodearon la constitución de 2008; el tercer apartado describe las circunstancias internas ecuatorianas que propiciaron la adopción de este principio; y finalmente, se recapitula la experiencia ecuatoriana y las disposiciones constitucionales que formalizaron su inclusión. 
Dragones, Creatividad y Generación de Conocimiento
Authors: Villamizar David Valencia
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo constituye, desde un enfoque alternativo de comprensión del Derecho, una porpuesta, que aborda las cuestiones esenciales sobre los procesos de investigación en el Derecho, especialmente aquellos realizados en la Facultad de Derecho de la Universidad Santo Tomás, caracterizador por su modularidad.
Políticas públicas en Colombia de Generación distribuida en nuevas Fuentes energéticas: El Caso de la Geotermia y las Zonas no interconectadas.
Authors: Jiménez Katherin Farietta
Published: July 2015

La falencia en la prestación del servicio de energía en las áreas no interconectadas del país lleva a concluir que hace falta implementar políticas fuertes a nivel nacional y que se desarrollen por parte de los gobiernos locales para dignificar la calidad de vida de sus habitantes.

 

Además la firma y ratificación de tratados internacionales por parte de nuestro estado para diversificar la canasta energética, hace propicio el escenario de las zonas no interconectadas para su pleno y rentable abastecimiento mediante sistemas de generación distribuida con fuentes de energía limpias.

 

No obstante es necesario dejar de lados los intereses clientelistas de los particulares y que el gobierno central incentive la electrificación eficiente de las zonas que en nuestro mapa representan un porcentaje bastante considerable.
Montes de María: Crímenes de Lesa humanidad
Authors: Calderon Cristian Daniel Hernandez
Published: July 2015

Montes de María, ha sido una región abatida, por el conflicto armado y político. Sus elementos contextuales, nos permiten construir, una situación de crímenes de lesa humanidad, en el marco del derecho penal internacional. El presente artículo, busca describir unas circunstancias de tiempo, modo y lugar, que permiten la consolidación, de un alto grado de violaciones a los derechos de la población, en la historia de la región. Esto vinculado, a unas políticas de Estado, que trabajan conjuntamente con estructuras paramilitares, con el fin de consolidar la zona.
Responsabilidad del Vicepresidente de la República en ejercicio de sus funciones constitucionales
Authors: Márquez Paula Ximena Muñoz
Published: July 2015

El presente artículo pretende analizar la figura de la Vicepresidencia desde el punto de vista del ejercicio de las funciones constitucionales asignadas por la Constitución política de 1991, artículo 202 inciso 3° y 5°. A partir de una metodología cualitativa con enfoque histórico hermenéutico, El objetivo principal será determinar la responsabilidad del Vicepresidente de la República en el ordenamiento jurídico colombiano en  la Constitución de 1991, partiendo de la identificación de los antecedentes constitucionales de la figura de la Vicepresidencia, la posición jurídica del Vicepresidente de la República como funcionario público en ejercicio de las funciones propias de su cargo, para finalmente determinar la responsabilidad del Vicepresidente en caso de contravenir la Constitución o las leyes.
A fejlődési rendellenesség fogalmának átértelmezése: a hibás perinatalis imprinting jelentősége
Authors: Csaba György
Published: July 2015

The classic definition of developmental abnormalities referred to malformations observed at birth. Later the functional teratogenicity was also recognized and accepted, which can be revealed in functional abnormalities caused by harms during the intrauterine development and can be manifested at any time of life. However, the ontogeny is not closed with the birth, because some systems or organs are developing for a long time after it, and can be influenced by different factors. From this aspect the perinatal period is especially important when the mutual adjustment of the receptor-hormone system is taking place and the hormonal imprinting develops. If this is faulty, it influences the hormone binding capacity of receptors that has consequences for life. The faulty hormonal imprinting is functionally teratogen; it provokes a fault up to the level of a malformation and aggravated with its heredity to the progenies. False imprinting is provoked (in animal experiments, proportioning to human doses) by drugs acting at receptor level, as oxytocin, steroid hormone analogues (pregnancy protectors, oral contraceptives, surfactants), vitamin A and D, environmental pollutant endocrine disruptors (benzpyrene, bisphenol A, pesticides, herbicides) and certain soybean components, etc. From this aspect these are functional teratogens, and their evasion in prevention as well as therapy seems to be vital. This means that the concept of developmental abnormality must be broadened, as developmental abnormalities: 1.) can originate not only in the intrauterine period, but also perinatally or even later, 2.) it can be manifested at any time of life, 3.) it can be present in a latent form which can be activated by inner or outer environmental factors, 4.) the faulty hormonal imprinting is a teratogen factor. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(28), 1120–1127.
Oxidatív stressz és atherosclerosis
Authors: Stark Júlia
Published: July 2015

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death in developed countries. Genetic susceptibility and environmental factors play a role in the pathogenesis. Most of these factors lead to endothelial dysfunction and other pro-atherogenic processes by causing oxidative stress. Atherosclerosis typically develops at the curved and branched regions of the arterial tree, where the laminar blood flow is disturbed. This leads to increased permeability of the endothel to low density lipoprotein molecules, which accumulate in the intima and are oxidised by vascular cells. Oxidised low density lipoprotein takes part in many phases of atherogenesis: stimulates the binding of monocytes to the endothel, foam cell formation, the development of plaques, plaque destabilization and thrombotic complications. Since oxidative stress plays an important role in atherogenesis, it has been suggested that antioxidant molecules might have anti-atherogenic function. Many clinical investigations have shown that antioxidants such as N-acetylcystein, vitamin E and C, folic acid, and estrogens can prevent atherosclerosis, however, randomized studies failed to confirm this effect. Orv. Hetil., 2015, 156(28), 1115–1119.
UMA DISCUSSÃO SOBRE OS SENTIDOS DA INTEGRAÇÃO DE FERIADOS, FESTAS E COMEMORAÇÕES CÍVICAS NO CALENDÁRIO DAS ESCOLAS PRIMÁRIAS PAULISTAS (1890-1930)
Authors: Gallego Rita de Cassia , Cândido Renata Marcílio
Published: July 2015

O presente artigo articula dois elementos que se complementam em estudos da história da cultura escolar: o tempo e as festas escolares. Os anos entre 1890 e 1930 são marcados pelos esforços estatais de implementar um sistema de ensino público em São Paulo, percebidos na profusão de reformas, na elaboração de leis, na construção de prédios escolares, em iniciativas de formação e organização de professores, na divulgação de saberes pedagógicos, entre outros. Nesse contexto, o detalhamento do calendário e, especialmente, a determinação dos dias de comemorações escolares integram as ações para se constituir um sistema de ensino com funcionamento homogêneo das escolas. O corpus documental a partir do qual se realizou o estudo constituiu-se de textos de revistas pedagógicas, relatórios de inspetores escolares, da legislação educacional e de outras obras literárias publicadas no período e que abordaram os temas em questão.
PRÁTICAS SOCIAIS DE LEITURA EM UMA SALA DE AULA DE JOVENS E ADULTOS: CONTRASTES EM FOCO
Authors: Dias Maíra Tomayno de Melo , Gomes Maria de Fátima Cardoso
Published: July 2015

Este artigo visa analisar contrastivamente práticas de leitura construídas por alunos e professoras em uma sala de aula de Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA) em Belo Horizonte. Para isso, analisamos as interações discursivas em que essas práticas foram construídas, destacando o que contou como leitura naquela sala de aula e os sentidos e os significados produzidos nos eventos de letramento. Essa investigação possibilitou conhecer o que e como leem, para quem leem, quando e onde leem e as semelhanças e diferenças encontradas nas práticas de leitura vivenciadas por estudantes e professoras daquele grupo. Nosso estudo mostrou que diferentes concepções de letramento resultam em práticas sociais de leitura variadas e em oportunidades de aprendizagem diversas. Pretendemos contribuir para que o processo de ensino-aprendizagem da leitura se torne mais significativo, pautado pelo reconhecimento das características próprias e das necessidades dos estudantes de EJA, que se formam em contextos de aprendizagem compartilhados.