bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NICU-based Interventions To Reduce Maternal Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Mendelson Tamar , Cluxton-Keller Fallon , Vullo Genevieve C. , Tandon S. Darius , Noazin Sassan
Published: February 2017

CONTEXT:

Parents whose infants are being treated in the NICU are at high risk for depression and anxiety, with negative implications for parenting and infant development.

OBJECTIVE:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of NICU-based interventions to reduce maternal depressive or anxiety symptoms.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed, Embase, PsychInfo, Cochrane, and CINAHL were searched for relevant studies. Reference lists from selected studies were reviewed.

STUDY SELECTION:

Inclusion criteria included randomized controlled design, a parent-focused intervention delivered in the NICU, valid maternal depressive or anxiety symptom measures at pre- and postintervention, and publication in a peer-reviewed journal in English.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Data extraction was conducted independently by 2 coders.

RESULTS:

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria for qualitative review; 2 were excluded from quantitative analyses for high risk of bias. Fixed- and random-effects models, with 7 eligible studies assessing depressive symptoms, indicated an effect of –0.16 (95% confidence interval [CI], –0.32 to –0.002; P < .05) and, with 8 studies assessing anxiety symptoms, indicated an effect of –0.12 (95% CI, –0.29 to 0.05; P = .17). The subset of interventions using cognitive behavioral therapy significantly reduced depressive symptoms (effect, –0.44; 95% CI, –0.77 to –0.11; P = .01).

LIMITATIONS:

The small number and methodological shortcomings of studies limit conclusions regarding intervention effects.

CONCLUSIONS:

Combined intervention effects significantly reduced maternal depressive but not anxiety symptoms. The evidence is strongest for the impact of cognitive behavioral therapy interventions on maternal depressive symptoms.
Perspectives of Low Socioeconomic Status Mothers of Premature Infants
Authors: Enlow Elizabeth , Faherty Laura J. , Wallace-Keeshen Sara , Martin Ashley E , Shea Judy A. , Lorch Scott A.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Transitioning premature infants from the NICU to home is a high-risk period with potential for compromised care. Parental stress is high, and families of low socioeconomic status may face additional challenges. Home visiting programs have been used to help this transition, with mixed success. We sought to understand the experiences of at-risk families during this transition to inform interventions.

METHODS:

Mothers of infants born at <35 weeks’ gestation, meeting low socioeconomic status criteria, were interviewed by telephone 30 days after discharge to assess caregiver experiences of discharge and perceptions of home visitors (HVs). We generated salient themes by using grounded theory and the constant comparative method. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was achieved.

RESULTS:

Twenty-seven mothers completed interviews. Eighty-five percent were black, and 81% had Medicaid insurance. Concern about infants’ health and fragility was the primary theme identified, with mothers reporting substantial stress going from a highly monitored NICU to an unmonitored home. Issues with trust and informational consistency were mentioned frequently and could threaten mothers’ willingness to engage with providers. Strong family networks and determination compensated for limited economic resources, although many felt isolated. Mothers appreciated HVs’ ability to address infant health but preferred nurses over lay health workers.

CONCLUSIONS:

Low-income mothers experience significant anxiety about the transition from the NICU to home. Families value HVs who are trustworthy and have relevant medical knowledge about prematurity. Interventions to improve transition would benefit by incorporating parental input and facilitating trust and consistency in communication.
Trade diversification in Colombia, 1991-2011
Authors: Arguello Cuervo Luis Ricardo
Published: February 2017

In this paper we describe the evolution of international trade and the behaviour of export diversification in Colombia during the 1991-2011 period. In order to measure trade diversification and follow its behaviour throughout the period, we employ alternative ways of decomposing trade flows in their intensive and extensive margins, using the latter as a measure of diversification. The results indicate that trade diversification in Colombia is relatively limited, and seems to follow a pattern according to which exports are diversified mainly through increases in the number of products rather than in the number of partners. At the same time imports tend to diversify mainly by increases in the number of countries of origin rather than by the number of products. Furthermore, trade with upper middle-income countries seems to be an important driver of trade diversification.
Pérdidas Esperadas y Detrimento Patrimonial por Hurto Vehículos en Colombia.
Authors: Medina Hurtado Santiago , Restrepo-Morales Jorge , Bedoya Alejandro
Published: February 2017

Este trabajo presenta una aproximación metodológica basada en el concepto de valor en riesgo operativo (VaRop) para la estimación de las pérdidas económicas máximas esperadas por el hurto de vehículos asegurados en Colombia, desagregado por empresa aseguradora y para las principales ciudades del país. También se estima la pérdida patrimonial para propietarios cuyos vehículos no están asegurados. Para el primer propósito, se identificaron las distribuciones de probabilidad asociadas a las series de hurtos tanto para la frecuencia como para la pérdida económica mensual, las cuales fueron agregadas mediante un proceso de simulación Montecarlo. Para la pérdida patrimonial se planteó un modelo multidimensional para cuantificar la distribución del detrimento patrimonial, la cual incorpora cinco distribuciones de probabilidad en un proceso de simulación Montecarlo. El estudio evidencia la gravedad del problema del robo de vehículos en Colombia, con unas pérdidas económicas máximas para las aseguradoras de $9.130,0 millones/mes y un detrimento patrimonial para los ciudadanos del orden de $16.458,0 millones/mes; además, refleja la baja cultura del seguro en el país donde solo el 28,16% del parque automotor está cubierto por compañías aseguradoras.
El efecto de la política fiscal en expansión y recesión para Ecuador: un modelo MSVAR
Authors: Carrillo Maldonado Paúl Alexander
Published: February 2017

En este artículo se evidencia el efecto de la política fiscal en la economía de Ecuador, considerando la recesión y expansión entre 2003 y 2013. Para esto se utiliza un MSVAR con el gasto público, ingreso petrolero, impuestos e IAE-NP. Se muestra que el gasto tiene un impacto positivo en la actividad económica, con mayor efecto en tiempos de recesión que en bonanza. El aumento de los impuestos provoca un efecto negativo, con mayor impacto en crisis. El ingreso petrolero genera un efecto positivo permanente en la economía, con mayor efecto en expansión. Se debe considerar que solo el efecto del incremento de los impuestos tiene significancia estadística, resultado consistente con estudios previos de la economía ecuatoriana.
An approach to the broadband effect on Latin American growth: A structural model
Authors: Alderete María Verónica
Published: February 2017

This paper analyses the fixed broadband penetration effect on Latin American economic growth. The methodology employed consists of using a simultaneous equation model based on Koutroumpis (2009) and Katz and Callorda (2013). To aid this process, we use country level data from the World Bank and the Regional Dialogue about the Information Society-DIRSI for the 2010-2014 period. The results obtained stress the importance of broadband penetration for economic growth in Latin America.
El ahorro y la inversión corporativos en América Latina. Una indagación a nivel firma
Authors: Pérez Artica Rodrigo , Delbianco Fernando , Brufman Leandro
Published: February 2017

Realizamos un examen a nivel firma de la inversión y, en especial, el resultado financiero neto del sector privado no financiero de la región. Documentamos un superávit financiero neto típico de períodos de crisis y mayoritariamente en ascenso en los últimos años. A partir de un análisis de estadística descriptiva delineamos las características más sobresalientes de este superávit y ofrecemos una primera explicación sobre la base de factores macro, microeconómicos y financieros, que es testeada con un modelo multinivel.
Proporción de lesiones y factores correlacionados en bailarines de ballet clásico de una academia en Bogotá, D.C.
Authors: Cuan-Cerquera Cindy Yirley , Correa-Mesa Juan Felipe , García Andrés Mauricio , Correa-Morales Juan Carlos
Published: February 2017

Introducción. El ballet es una actividad que encuentra equilibrio entre el atletismo y el arte, de manera que abarca: disciplina y precisión en habilidades psicomotoras, y un exquisito lenguaje corporal y estético, cuya exigencia puede tener repercusiones en la incidencia de lesiones en sus practicantes.Objetivo. Estimar la proporción de lesiones y factores correlacionados en bailarines de ballet en Bogotá.Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una investigación transversal, observacional-descriptiva donde se aplicó una encuesta a una muestra aleatoria de n=27 bailarines clásicos de los niveles pre-profesional y profesional. 74% de ellos fueron mujeres con edades entre los 12 y 37 años.Resultados. El promedio de lesiones por año fue de 1.5926, con un intervalo de confianza del 95% para lambda de 1.181164 y 2.147491. No se encontró significancia estadística para las variables de género e índice de masa corporal (IMC) en relación a las lesiones por año, presentando valores p=0.26 y p=0.68, respectivamente. En cuanto a los tipos de lesión más usuales se encontraron tendinopatías y lesiones musculares benignas (29.62%) y esguinces (19.23%). Los sitios anatómicos recurrentes de lesión en los participantes de este estudio son la rodilla (40%), seguido de cadera y abdomen (18.51%) y las lesiones en pie y muslo (14.81%).Conclusiones. La práctica de ballet aumenta los riesgos de sufrir lesiones musculoesqueléticos y de tejido conectivo, a esto se debe la importancia de realizar más investigaciones que promuevan acciones preventivas en dicha población.
Asociación entre el porcentaje graso y las capacidades físicas básicas de niños de 7 a 11 años en etapa escolar de una institución educativa de Bogotá, D.C.
Authors: Ocampo-Plazas Mary Luz , Correa Juan Felipe , Guzmán-David Cristian Arvey , Correa Juan Carlos
Published: February 2017

Introducción. La obesidad es una enfermedad de evolución rápida y constante que genera costos en salud por enfermedades consecuentes, las cuales aparecen en edades cada vez más tempranas. La disminución del rendimiento físico ocasionado por la obesidad se ha descrito en varios estudios, principalmente, asociado a la alteración de capacidad aeróbica como agente causal, pero también a la disminución de la afectación de otras capacidades físicas. Objetivo. Determinar el grado de asociación entre porcentaje graso y capacidades físicas (fuerza, flexibilidad y resistencia) en escolares. Materiales y métodos. Se evaluaron las capacidades físicas de escolares de segundo a quinto grado, entre 7 a 11 años, utilizando FITNESSGRAM®. También se correlacionaron las variables de porcentaje graso y capacidades físicas básicas para determinar la fuerza de asociación entre estas. Resultados. Existe asociación significativa entre porcentaje graso y nivel PACER (p=0.0001), push up (p<0.0001), resistencia abdominal (p=0.0148) y flexibilidad de hombro izquierdo (p=0.03186). Sin embargo, no hubo asociación con la fuerza potencia. Conclusión. El porcentaje graso tiene alta influencia sobre las capacidades físicas en general. Se necesita desarrollar estrategias desde temprana edad para contrarrestar el sobrepeso y la obesidad, así como fomentar la actividad física para minimizar los efectos deletéreos sobre la salud.
Caracterización del índice de masa corporal en escolares que participaron dentro del programa de deporte escolar 40X40 en Bogotá, D.C.
Authors: Zapata-Torres Diana Marcela , Debray-Hernández Edgar , Mancera-Soto Erica Mabel , Preciado-Martínez Diana Carolina , Sanjuanelo-Corredor Danny Wilson
Published: February 2017

Introducción. El programa 40X40 promueve el deporte formativo en Bogotá. Esta estrategia requiere un diagnóstico poblacional, a partir del estado nutricional antropométrico en el puntaje Z del índice de masa corporal (IMC) (1), para promover hábitos saludables. Objetivo. Determinar las características del IMC en los escolares del programa 40X40 dentro de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos. Investigación con enfoque cuantitativo y estudio descriptivo transversal, respecto a las variables antropométricas y a las características socio-demográficas. Resultados. Participaron 1 035 escolares, 564 mujeres y 471 hombres. También se tuvieron 18 instituciones educativas distritales (IED) en 10 localidades y se incluyeron 17 deportes: 31% pelota, 28% combate, 16% arte y presión, 23% tiempo, marca y deportes urbanos y nuevas tendencias (DUNT) 2%. Hubo medición de las variables de peso, talla y uso de los índices IMC e IMCzscore. En el IMC se obtuvo un 38.2% bajo peso, 46.2% normal, 12.2% sobrepeso y 2.8% obesidad, mientras que el IMCzscore reportó 16.5% bajo peso, 79.8% normal, 3.5% sobrepeso y 0.2% obesidad. Conclusiones. Se reportaron diferencias significativas entre el IMC e IMCzscore, de modo que el primero relaciona peso y talla y el segundo ajusta las dos anteriores más la edad, por tanto, se determina que este último valora de forma integral el proceso de crecimiento y desarrollo.
Consistencia interna de la batería de evaluación propioceptiva en personas con amputación transtibial (BEPAT) en el Hospital Militar Central
Authors: Landínez-Parra Nancy Stella , Núñez Lady Marcela , Sierra Ana Cecilia , Quiroga Laura Catalina , Villamizar Gladys Eugenia
Published: February 2017

Introducción. Varías pruebas clínicas han sido diseñadas para evaluar la propiocepción, sin embargo ninguna cuenta con la suficiente validez para ser empleada en población amputada. Por esta razón, el Grupo de Investigación de Profundización en Kinesioterapia de la Universidad Nacional de Colombia ha desarrollado una batería de evaluación propioceptiva para personas con amputación transtibial ya protetizadas (BEPAT). La presente investigación evalúa la consistencia interna de la batería. Objetivo. Establecer la consistencia interna de la batería de evaluación propioceptiva (BEPAT) en un grupo de amputados del Hospital Militar Central. Materiales y métodos. Estudio de tipo transversal en el que participaron 12 sujetos (25.4 ± 4.23 años) con amputación transtibial por mina, de género masculino (100%), y con tipo de prótesis de bloqueo-pin (75%). Los participantes asistieron al servicio de prótesis y amputados del Hospital Militar Central entre junio y julio de 2014, cumpliendo con los criterios de inclusión en el estudio. La consistencia interna se evaluó con el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (α). Resultados. La BEPAT cuenta con una alta confiabilidad de tipo consistencia interna, con un valor global de coeficiente alfa α=0.758, mientras que este valor para los dominios de actividades efectoras, cinestesia y estatestesia fue de (α=-0.264), (α=0.829) y (α=0.763), respectivamente. Conclusiones. Se determinó que la BEPAT puede ser aplicable en el ámbito clínico, obteniendo en las primeras pruebas de confiabilidad un alto valor alfa de Cronbach α=0.758. Las variables que componen los dominios tienen una influencia positiva en la consistencia interna de toda la batería y las calificaciones para la pierna amputada se reducen, reportando valores inferiores a 26, lo que indica una regular respuesta propioceptiva.
Efectos de un programa de promoción de actividad física sobre el fitness de mujeres adolescentes de dos colegios de Bogotá, D.C.
Authors: Ramos-Caballero Diana Marcela , García-Sánchez Lilia Virginia , Páez Diana , Pedroza Lina María , Mendoza-Romero Darío , Mancera-Soto Erica Mabel
Published: February 2017

Introducción. La inactividad física actualmente predomina en toda la población, en particular la adolescente, lo que genera consecuencias sobre la salud. A su vez, el ámbito escolar provee un ambiente propicio para intervenciones de promoción de hábitos de vida saludables. Este estudio propone implementar y evaluar el impacto de un modelo de promoción de actividad física, con el propósito de modificar comportamientos individuales y colectivos hacia la práctica regular de actividad física. Objetivo. Evaluar los efectos de un programa de promoción de actividad física sobre los componentes del fitness relacionado con la salud en mujeres adolescentes de dos colegios de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos. Este es un estudio longitudinal, descriptivo, exploratorio, con mediciones pre-post de los componentes del fitness relacionado con la salud. 49 mujeres sanas estudiantes de dos colegios de Bogotá (edad: 15.33±1.36 años) participaron en el programa de 12 semanas. El paquete estadístico SPSS 20 fue utilizado para el análisis. Resultados. Después de la intervención, se encontraron cambios significativos en la fuerza de abdominales y de miembros inferiores de las adolescentes participantes. Las demás variables medidas mostraron cambios positivos, pero no significativos. Conclusiones. El programa propuesto genera cambios positivos en la mayoría de componentes del fitness relacionado con la salud en mujeres adolescentes.
Representaciones sociales de actividad física y sus condicionantes para su práctica en docentes de la localidad Los Mártires de Bogotá, D.C.
Authors: Ocampo-Plazas Mary Luz , Ariza-Vargas Jhon Carlos
Published: February 2017

Introducción. Las instituciones educativas son escenarios de riqueza cultural y social que favorecen la adopción de estilos de vida como la práctica de actividad física (AF). Los docentes poseen un acercamiento a la AF que es necesario reconocer, ya que juegan un papel fundamental en el proceso de adquisición de hábitos. Objetivo. Describir las representaciones sociales de AF que tienen los docentes de los ciclos I y II de colegios distritales en la localidad los Mártires, Bogotá, y establecer los condicionantes para su práctica. Materiales y métodos. Estudio exploratorio, descriptivo y cualitativo realizado con 48 docentes distribuidos aleatoriamente, en el que, a través de grupos focales, se indagó sobre las representaciones de AF y los condicionantes para su práctica. La información fue procesada mediante triangulación, haciendo uso del análisis del discurso. Resultados. La mayoría de los participantes definieron la AF desde una perspectiva biológica. En cuanto a los condicionantes, se destacaron más limitaciones en relación con la seguridad del entorno, las políticas institucionales y la actitud de los docentes, esta última como limitante y facilitador dependiendo del caso. Conclusiones. En el concepto de AF no se observa diferencia en términos de ejercicio, deporte, recreación o juego; sin embargo, se resalta su importancia para el escolar, pues el desarrollo humano se favorece al realizar AF. Ahora bien, en algunos casos, solo el profesional en AF puede promoverla, por lo que pocos docentes la involucran en sus clases.
Efectos de la terapia física intensiva sobre la función motora de un niño con hemiparesia espástica
Authors: Serrano-Gómez María Eugenia , Forero-Umbarila Julieth Andrea , Méndez-Sánchez Lina Betzabé
Published: February 2017

Introducción. La fisioterapia es una profesión del área de la salud cuyo objeto de estudio es el movimiento corporal humano, por lo que es responsable de aquellos casos que involucran problemas en el desarrollo motor, como el manejado en la presente investigación. Objetivo. Describir el efecto a corto plazo causado por un tratamiento intensivo de terapia física, realizado con Therasuit, sobre la función motora de un niño con hemiparesia espástica derecha. Materiales y métodos. Investigación descriptiva de tipo cualitativo llevada a cabo bajo la metodología de estudio de caso con un periodo de observación de dos años. Resultados. Los resultados incluyen, además de la detección y el diagnóstico del caso, el análisis de la información a partir de la aplicación de la metodología y la observación de resultados en pruebas clínicas para valorar el movimiento, el diseño y la implementación de un plan terapéutico basado en el método Therasuit. Conclusiones. En este estudio de caso es posible observar cómo la presencia del programa de fisioterapia en la institución de práctica clínica permitió que un niño de cuatros años fuera diagnosticado con secuelas de hemiparesia espástica derecha y fuera tratado con el método Therasuit, el cual mejoró su marcha y función motora.
Plant species and products of the Traditional Chinese Phytotherapy in the Ciudade Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Hurrell Julio Alberto , Puentes Jeremías P.
Published: February 2017

This paper is focused in medicinal plant species belonging to the Traditional Chinese Phytotherapy whose products are commercialized in the pluricultural context of the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina. The Chinese immigrants segment, like other recent immigrants groups in the study area, introduce their own plant products into the local urban scenario. In this framework, not only enter the new products but also their knowledge and beliefs associated, that become part of the mosaic of the knowledge in the local pluricultural system. Thus, the urban botanical knowledge constitutes a complex that includes the knowledge linked to the origin traditions of the immigrants segments, and the nontraditional one: the knowledge taught and learned, and the transmitted by the media, including scientific knowledge. The plant products incorporated by Chinese immigrants to their own restricted commercial circuit (linked to their traditions) are invisible for the majority of the local inhabitants. However, some of these products enter the general commercial circuit (nontraditional) and become visible for all local population. This visualization of the plant products implies the transmission of its associated knowledge, a process enhanced by the mass media, mainly the Internet. The results are interpreted within this theoretical framework. Also, the main features of the Traditional Chinese Phytotherapy are summarized, due to its differences with our Western medicine. For the species considered the scientific names, botanical families, distribution, Chinese name and Latin denomination of the plant products, and the reference samples are indicated. For each species are included a list of its uses linked to traditions, and a revision work of the biological activity and effects evaluated (the validation context in terms of Western science). In the context of Urban Ethnobotany, the presence alone of invisible species is a significant issue because increases the local biocultural diversity (of useful plants, products, and its associated knowledge). Likewise, the species that become visible make evident the dynamics of changes in their visualization process, an adaptive phenomenon that allow the understanding of the local biocultural system complexity.
A hepatitis C-vírus-fertőzés szűrése, diagnosztikája, antivirális terápiája, kezelés utáni gondozása. Magyar konszenzusajánlás. Érvényes: 2016. október 15-től
Authors: Hunyady Béla , Gerlei Zsuzsanna , Gervain Judit , Horváth Gábor , Lengyel Gabriella , Pár Alajos , Péter Zoltán , Rókusz László , Schneider Ferenc , Szalay Ferenc , Tornai István , Werling Klára , Makara Mihály
Published: February 2017

Treatment of hepatitis C is based on a national consensus guideline updated six-monthly according to local availability and affordability of approved therapies through a transparent allocation system in Hungary. This updated guideline incorporates some special new aspects, including recommendations for screening, diagnostics, use and allocation of novel direct acting antiviral agents. Indication of therapy in patients with no contraindication is based on demonstration of viral replication with consequent inflammation and/or fibrosis in the liver. Non-invasive methods (elastographies and biochemical methods) are preferred for liver fibrosis staging. The budget allocated for these patients is limited. Therefore, expensive novel direct acting antiviral combinations as first line treatment are reimbursed only, if the freely available, but less effective and more toxic pegylated interferon plus ribavirin dual therapy deemed to prone high chance of adverse events and/or low chance of cure. Priority is given to those with urgent need based on a pre-defined scoring system reflecting mainly the stage of the liver disease, but considering also additional factors, i.e., hepatic decompensation, other complications, activity and progression of liver disease, risk of transmission and other special issues. Approved treatments are restricted to the most cost-effective combinations based on the cost per sustained virological response value in different patient categories with consensus amongst treating physicians, the National Health Insurance Fund and patient’s organizations. Interferon-free treatments and shorter therapy durations are preferred. Orv. Hetil., 2017, 158(Suppl. 1), 3–22.
Range extension of Prestoea pubens var. pubens H.E.Moore (Arecales: Arecaceae) in Colombia
Authors: Perdomo Oscar , Nascimento André R. Terra , Trujillo Edwin Trujillo , Ubiali Bruno
Published: February 2017

This study reports an extension of 275 km to the known distribution of the understory palm Prestoea pubens var. pubens. Originally recorded from the Gorgona and Gorgonilla islands and along the Pacific coast of Colombia, the new record is from a Tropical Montane Cloud Forest in Caquetá, which is located on the eastern slopes of the East Colombian Andes. This new record makes the species trans-Andean, showing a disjunctive distribution that also occurs with other understory palms such as Aiphanes simplex, Chamaedorea pygmaea and P. ensiformis.
A static technique for the electro-mechanical characterization of MEMS devices for RF and microwave applications
Authors: Kaul Anupama B. , Klosowiak Tomasz , Liu Joshua
Published: February 2017

An approach for measuring force-dependent properties of microscopic structures commonly found in MEMS has been developed. The system has the capability of measuring forces and deflections of the order of micro-newtons and micro-meters, respectively. By implementing a visual inspection system, force is applied to localized areas on a beam, and the resulting force-deflection characteristic can be obtained. From this beam stiffness and effective elastic modulus can be calculated. These results were compared to simulation, which was performed using ANSYS FEM code. In addition, by applying a known mechanical force, direct correlation to voltage and thus electrostatic force can be obtained, which also elucidates the magnitude of the electrostatic feedback effect. Characterization of other force-dependent parameters such as DC contact resistance and isolation/insertion loss at RF and microwave frequencies was obtained experimentally, from which parameters such as lumped capacitance can be extracted.
Integrated Magnetic Sensing of Electrostatically Actuated Thin-Film Microbridges
Authors: Gaspar J. , Li Haohua , Freitas P.P. , Chu V. , Conde J.P.
Published: February 2017

Bilayer microbridges of aluminum and hydrogenated amorphous silicon are fabricated using thin film technology and surface micromachining at low temperatures on glass substrates. The microstructure is electrostatically actuated by applying a voltage between the bridge and a metal gate counter electrode placed beneath it. The movement is measured with a precision close to 0.1 Å by sensing the magnetic field of a permanent magnet, deposited and patterned on top of the microbridge, with an integrated spin valve magnetic sensor. The deflection of the bridge is at the same time monitored using an optical setup. The deflection of the structures is studied as a function of the driving applied gate voltage and bridge length and experimental results are analyzed with an electromechanical model.
Nanogap Capacitors for Label Free DNA Analysis
Authors: Lee Joon Sung , Choi Yang-Kyu , Pio Michael , Seo Jeonggi , Lee Luke P.
Published: February 2017

Nanogap capacitors are fabricated for DNA hybridization detection. Without labeling, the nanogap capacitors on a chip can function as DNA microarray sensors. The difference in dielectric properties between single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA permits use of capacitance measurements to detect hybridization. To obtain high detection sensitivity, a 50 nm gap capacitor was fabricated using a Si-nanotechnology. To ensure proper measurement of DNA's dielectrical properties, the probe ssDNA was first immobilized onto the electrode surface using self-assembly monolayers and allowed to hybridize with the target ssDNA. The capacitance changes were measured for 35-mer homonucleotides. The self-assembly monolayer and DNA immobilization events were verified independently by contact angle measurement and FTIR. Capacitance values are measured at frequencies ranging from 75 kHz to 5 MHz, using 0 VDC bias and 25 mVAC signals. Approximately 9% change in capacitance was observed after DNA hybridization at 75 kHz.
Microfabricated Patch-Clamp Array for Neural Mems Applications
Authors: Kubow Timothy M. , Cheung Karen C. , Bentley Loren F. , Lee Luke P.
Published: February 2017

Microfabricated patch clamping devices comprising planar arrays of individually addressable nozzles, fluidic channels and electrodes have been developed. Patch clamp based electrophysiological techniques are among the most widespread methods in neurophysiology and are used to address a broad range of cellular physiology and quantitative biological questions. Among the limitations of the technique are the difficulty of obtaining multiple patches on connected cells or on the same cell, limited stability of patches, and constraints on chemical and optical access to the patched membrane. The parallel array device will enable the formation of multiple seals simultaneously. The structure facilitates visualization of the interior of the patched membrane during electrical recording, as well as delivery of chemicals. The microfabrication technique gives precise control over the capacitive and resistive characteristics of the electrode channels, as well as the flow resistance, which are important factors in patch clamp recording. The device is fabricated using an SOI wafer and Deep Reactive Ion Etching to create an array of cylindrical nozzles, each of which has a core of silicon dioxide and interior walls of silicon nitride. Vertical channel segments and plumbing holes are fabricated by deep reactive ion etching through the wafer. Important electrical properties of the device were characterized, and patch clamping was attempted.
Novel Interface to Biological Systems for Retinal Prosthetics
Authors: Peterman Mark C. , Lee Christina , Leng Theodore , Huie Philip , Fishman Harvey A.
Published: February 2017

The development of retinal prostheses requires a method for interconnecting an imaging system to the retina. Such a system must be able to individually address and stimulate retinal neurons, a significant advance from current technology. As a step toward this goal, we present a novel electronic-to-biologic interface using microfabricated apertures in a silicon substrate. Apertures are created in a thin silicon nitride membrane, after which the surface is appropriately modified to support cell growth. Excitable cells are seeded on the device and imaged using Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent dyes in either an inverted or confocal microscope. Using rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells, we show the ability to stimulate locally through the apertures. The device allows for the stimulation of cells at precise locations, a necessary requirement for future high-resolution retinal prostheses.
Adhesion-Based Capture and Separation of Cells for Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Chang Wesley C. , Lee Luke P. , Liepmann Dorian
Published: February 2017

Cell separation and sorting in micro-assay devices must be performed using minimal sample sizes and few processing steps. To meet these requirements, a biomimetic approach to cell sorting is proposed based on adhesive rolling of cells along surfaces. This type of interaction is mediated by a special class of adhesion proteins on cell membranes and is responsible for localizing cells to particular tissuesin vivo. To perform cell capture in a microdevce, raw sample can be flowed through microstructured fluidic channels, which serve as chromatographic “separation columns” and whose surfaces are coated with adhesion proteins. Targeted cells are captured by the flow structures and are permitted to roll slowly under shear from passing fluid. Among captured cells, differences in rolling speed provide the basis for segregating different populations. In this study, two prospective designs for microstructured fluidic channels were coated with E-selectin IgG chimera. The capture and enrichment of HL-60 and U-937 cells from flowing samples were demonstrated. Additionally, the difference in transit speed through one of the fluidic channels indicates that separation of enriched populations of these cells is feasible.
Designing Thermally Uniform Mems Hot Micro-Bolometers
Authors: Moelders Nicholas , Pralle Martin U. , McNeal Mark P. , Puscasu Irina , Last Lisa , Ho William , Greenwald Anton C. , Daly James T. , Johnson Edward A.
Published: February 2017

Here we describe the evolution of a silicon, MEMS-based chip design developed for infrared gas and chemical detection. The “Sensor-Chip,” with integrated photonic crystal and reflective optics, employs narrow-band optical emission/absorption for selective identification of gas and chemical species. Gas concentration is derived from attenuated optical power, which results in a change in device set point. This change in temperature results in a change in device resistance, via the TCR of the Si. Thermal non-uniformity across the device results in optical “noise” and accelerates localized thermal and electrical failures. This paper reports the influence of processing and design, on achieving uniformly heated, high reliability devices. Specifically, we examine the role of contacts, drive scheme, and device thermal distribution on chip design. Experimentally the temperature uniformity was characterized using an infrared camera. Experimental results indicate that the design of the contact areas in combination with the device design is essential for the reliable performance of the Sensor-Chip. Redesigned devices were fabricated and demonstrated as highly-selective gas and chemical sensors.
Waferstepper Alignment for MEMS Applications using Diffraction Gratings
Authors: van Zeijl H. W. , Simon K. , Slabbekoorn J. , Buel W. v. , Gui C. Q.
Published: February 2017

MEMS manufacturing in general and the litho step in particular could benefit tremendously from an enhanced focus range of waferstepper alignment systems. This would help the MEMS community to cope with large substrate topography or extreme thick resist films. In this study the performance range over which of the alignment system of an ASML PAS5000/50 system operates has been investigated.

A test device that requires bulk micro machining was designed and processed. The required front to backwafer alignment (FTBA) was performed on alignment markers in cavities etched through a 100mm wafer. On the test device the FTBA overlay was measured electrically as well as optically using the metrology capability of the stepper alignment system. The results obtained demonstrate the capabilities of an existing alignment system to deal with high topographies. The overlay errors observed were dominated by the bulk micro machining processing.
Ammonothermal Crystallization of AlN Crystals
Authors: Motchanyy Alexander I. , Reu Alexey A. , Kovalenko Vladimir S. , Balakirev Vladimir G.
Published: February 2017

III-Nitrides (GaN, AlN and other compounds) have attracted vast interest due to their unique properties and potential applications in optoelectronic devices operating in the blue and UV spectral regions and for the construction of electronic devices capable of operating under high power and high temperature conditions.

Nanocrystalline AlN powder were obtained by AMMONO method, in which nitridization of Al metal occurs in highly chemical active supercritical ammonia using both NH4Cl as mineralizer. The experiments were performed in the temperature range of 350-550 °C and pressure of 80-120 MPa in stainless steel autoclaves for up to 5 days. Nanocrystalline AlN were spontaneously nucleated on the lower walls of the autoclaves. The obtained AlN powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction. Nanocrystalline AlN powders with average crystallite size 20-30 nm were produced in the temperature range of 450-550 °C.
Crystal Growth of RNiO3 Perovskites Under High Oxygen Pressure and Hydrothermal Conditions.
Authors: Alonso J.A. , Martínez-Lope M.J. , Casais M.T. , Muñoz A. , Largeteau A. , Demazeauc G.
Published: February 2017

Well-shaped single crystals of RNiO3 perovskites (R= Nd, Ho, Y) have been grown under high oxygen pressure conditions, in a piston-cylinder press at 2 GPa or in a belt-type press at 4 GPa. The reaction took place in sealed platinum capsules, in the presence of KClO3 as oxidizing agent. It seems that the choice of hydroxides of the involved cations as precursors is crucial for the success of the crystal growth, via water vapor transport reactions. The perovskites have been characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning microscopy and DSC measurements, suitable to identify the metal insulator transition. The transition temperatures of the as-grown crystals show a significantly lower hysteresis in the heating and cooling runs than those reported for powder materials, suggesting a lower density of defects.
Weird Naturalism of the Brothers McKenna
Authors: Davis Erik
Published: February 2017

When Terence McKenna and his brother Dennis performed the so-called “Experiment at La Chorrera” in Columbia in 1971, they staged what became one of the most legendary and storied trip tales in contemporary psychedelic culture. This paper diagrams the matrix of Jungian alchemy, Marshall McLuhan, and science fiction that underpinned the protocols and conceptual apparatus of the Experiment. These ideas are tied to McKenna’s early unpublished text Crypto-Rap, which is briefly summarized as an example of “weird naturalism.” In essence, it is argued that Terence and Dennis McKenna “esotericized” media theory into an occult apparatus of resonance, sympathy, and apocalyptic ontology.
DMT Gland
Authors: St.John Graham
Published: February 2017

With clinical psychiatrist Rick Strassman's DMT: The Spirit Molecule as a vehicle, the pineal gland has become a popularly enigmatic organ that quite literally excretes mystery. Strassman’s top selling book documented ground-breaking clinical trials with the powerful mind altering compound DMT (N,N-dimethyltryptamine) conducted at the University of New Mexico in the early 1990s. Inflected with Buddhist metaphysics, the book proposed that DMT secreted from the pineal gland enables transit of the life-force into this life, and from this life to the next. Since that study, the hunt has been on to verify the organ’s status as the “lightening rod of the soul” and that DMT is the “brain's own psychedelic.” While the burden of proof hangs over speculations that the humans produce endogenous DMT in psychedelic quantities, knowledge claims have left the clinic to forge a career of their own. Exploring this development, the article addresses how speculation on the DMT-producing “spirit gland”—the “intermediary between the physical and the spiritual”—are animate in film, literature, music and other popular cultural artefacts. Navigating the legacy of the DMT gland (and DMT) in diverse esoteric currents, it illustrates how Strassman’s “spirit molecule” propositions have been adopted by populists of polar positions on the human condition: i.e. the cosmic re-evolutionism consistent with Modern Theosophy and the gothic hopelessness of H. P. Lovecraft. This exploration of the extraordinary career of the “spirit molecule” enhances awareness of the influence of drugs, and specifically “entheogens,” in diverse “popular occultural” narratives, a development that remains under-researched in a field that otherwise recognises that oc/cult fandom—science fiction, fantasy and horror—is a vehicle for religious ideas and mystical practices.
Dividual Vision of the Individual
Authors: Gearin Alex
Published: February 2017

There has been ongoing scholarly debate concerning whether New Age spirituality may be defined by individualistic more than collectivistic values, beliefs and behaviours. Most scholars have answered in the positive and indicated how New Age beliefs and techniques emphasise the importance of the self and self-interests of the practitioner. This article contributes to debates on New Age individualism with an analysis of ayahuasca neoshamanism in Australia. I introduce thick ethnographic evidence of collectivist logics of social action in ritual practices of ecstatic purging and visions. I argue that these practices can be interpreted through anthropological notion of "dividualism" whereby the person is multiple, partible, and exchangeable along social relations of obligation (Strathern 1988, Mosko 2013). The article illustrates how ethnographic theory may contribute to debates about individualism and collectivism in New Age spirituality by creating space for "native" or emic theories of social action.
Development of Entrepreneurial skills for innovation in of autonomous public universities/Desarrollo de competencias emprendedoras en docentes de universidades públicas autónomas
Authors: Viloria Hender Alexander
Published: February 2017

En el presente artículo se analiza el desarrollo de competencias emprendedoras en docentes universidades públicas autónomas del estado Zulia, basado en las teorías de Auletta y Puente (2010), Mas Torelló (2011) e Hisrich, (2005) La investigación fue de tipo descriptiva, no experimental y de campo. Se aplicó un cuestionario tipo Likert a una muestra de 44 docentes-investigadores de universidades públicas autónomas del estado Zulia. Se obtuvo como resultados previos que hay un moderado nivel de actitud y atributos para el emprendimiento y un alto rango de competencias tecnológicas para transformar la realidad con conocimientos innovadores, pero con bajo nivel de financiamiento así como recursos escasos.  Por lo que se propone cultivar a través de un modelo, el desarrollo competencias emprendedoras para la innovación en los docentes de centros de investigación, con el fin de transformar las universidades públicas autónomas en instituciones que produzcan resultados tangibles para el desarrollo socio-productivo de la nación.
Impromptu Response to Adverse Weather: One School’s Successful Application of Digital Interviewing for Medical School Admissions
Authors: Nield Linda S. , Carpenter Alyson S. , Pratt Leigh A. , Vallejo Manuel , Paternostro Mark , Ferrari III Norman D.
Published: February 2017

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. In-person interviewing is the norm during the medical school application process, but it is not always possible due to reasons such as exorbitant cost of travel, work or residence outside the country and adverse travel conditions. In January 2016 during Winter Storm Jonas in the eastern United States of America, officials at the West Virginia University School of Medicine (WVU SOM) mandated a closure of the campus resulting in the cancellation of twenty on-site medical school interviews. The impromptu solution to overcoming this obstacle to in-person interviewing is described here as a case study. The successful use of digital interviewing has already been described at the residency and fellowship level; we believe this is the first reported case study about the successful use of FaceTime interviewing at the medical school level, and it may encourage admissions officials to expand the use of this modality in medical student recruitment.
Early Palliative Care Reduces End-of-Life Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Use but Not ICU Course in Patients with Advanced Cancer
Authors: Romano Andrew M. , Gade Kristine E. , Nielsen Gradon , Havard Robert , Harrison James H. , Barclay Josh , Stukenborg George J. , Read Paul W. , Blackhall Leslie J. , Dillon Patrick M.
Published: February 2017

Background

Early palliative care for advanced cancer patients improves quality of life and survival, but less is known about its effect on intensive care unit (ICU) use at the end of life. This analysis assessed the effect of a comprehensive early palliative care program on ICU use and other outcomes among patients with advanced cancer.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective cohort of patients with advanced cancer enrolled in an early palliative care program (n = 275) was compared with a concurrent control group of patients receiving standard care (n = 195) during the same time period by using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The multidisciplinary outpatient palliative care program used early end-of-life care planning, weekly interdisciplinary meetings to discuss patient status, and patient-reported outcomes assessment integrated within the electronic health record.

Results

Patients in the control group had statistically significantly higher likelihood of ICU admission at the end of life (odds ratios [ORs]: last 6 months, 3.07; last month, 3.59; terminal admission, 4.69), higher likelihood of death in the hospital (OR, 4.14) or ICU (OR, 5.57), and lower likelihood of hospice enrollment (OR, 0.13). Use of chemotherapy or radiation did not significantly differ between groups, nor did length of ICU stay, code status, ICU procedures (other than cardiopulmonary resuscitation), disposition location, and outcomes after ICU admission.

Conclusion

Early palliative care significantly reduced ICU use at the end of life but did not change ICU events. This study supports early initiation of palliative care for advanced cancer patients before hospitalizations and intensive care.
A Novel Inhibitor of Homeodomain Interacting Protein Kinase 2 Mitigates Kidney Fibrosis through Inhibition of the TGF-β1/Smad3 Pathway
Authors: Liu Ruijie , Das Bhaskar , Xiao Wenzhen , Li Zhengzhe , Li Huilin , Lee Kyung , He John Cijiang
Published: February 2017

Homeodomain interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2) is a critical regulator of multiple profibrotic pathways, including that of TGF-β1/Smad3. Genetic ablation of HIPK2 was shown previously to significantly reduce renal fibrosis in the experimental unilateral ureteral obstruction model and Tg26 mice, a model of HIV-associated nephropathy. To develop specific pharmacologic inhibitors of HIPK2 for antifibrotic therapy, we designed and synthesized small molecule inhibitor compounds on the basis of the predicted structure of HIPK2. Among these compounds, we identified one, BT173, that strongly inhibited the ability of HIPK2 to potentiate the downstream transcriptional activity of Smad3 in kidney tubular cells. Notably, binding of BT173 to HIPK2 did not inhibit HIPK2 kinase activity but rather, interfered allosterically with the ability of HIPK2 to associate with Smad3. In vitro, treatment with BT173 inhibited TGF-β1–induced Smad3 phosphorylation and Smad3 target gene expression in human renal tubular epithelial cells. In vivo, administration of BT173 decreased Smad3 phosphorylation and mitigated renal fibrosis and deposition of extracellular matrix in unilateral ureteral obstruction and Tg26 mouse models of renal fibrosis. Our data indicate that BT173 is a novel HIPK2 inhibitor that attenuates renal fibrosis through suppression of the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway and may be developed as an antifibrotic therapy in patients with kidney disease.