bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brunner’s Gland Lesions in Rats Induced by a Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitor
Authors: Inomata Akira , Nakano-Ito Kyoko , Fujikawa Yasuhiro , Sonoda Jiro , Hayakawa Kazuhiro , Ohta Etsuko , Taketa Yoshikazu , Van Gessel Yvonne , Akare Sandeep , Hutto David , Hosokawa Satoru , Tsukidate Kazuo
Published: February 2014

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) inhibitors are reported to cause reversible mucosal hyperplasia (adenosis) in the duodenum of rats; however, the pathogenesis is not fully elucidated. Using lenvatinib, a VEGF RTK inhibitor, we characterized the histologic time course of this duodenal change in rats. At 4 weeks, there was degeneration and necrosis of Brunner’s gland epithelium accompanied by neutrophil infiltration around the affected glands. At 13 weeks, the inflammation was more extensive, and Brunner’s gland epithelium was attenuated and flattened and was accompanied by reactive hyperplasia of duodenal epithelium. At 26 weeks, the changes became more severe and chronic and characterized by marked cystic dilation, which extended to the external muscular layer. These dilated glands exhibited morphological characteristics of duodenal crypt epithelium, suggestive of replacement of disappeared Brunner’s glands by regenerative duodenal crypt epithelial cells. Similar changes were not present in similar time course studies in dog and monkey studies, suggesting that this is a rodent- or species-specific change. Based on the temporal progression of Brunner’s gland lesion, we identify degeneration and necrosis of the Brunner’s glands as the primary change leading to inflammation, cystic dilatation, and regeneration with cells that are morphologically suggestive of duodenal crypt epithelium.
Classification tree analysis of the factors influencing injury-related disability caused by the Wenchuan earthquake
Authors: Liu Xiang , Liu Yuan-Yuan , Liu Si-Huan , Zhang Xiang-Rong , Du Lei , Huang Wen-Xia
Published: February 2014

Objective

To identify the factors that influenced the risk of injury-related disability caused by the Wenchuan earthquake.

Methods

A chi-squared automatic interaction detection (CHAID) classification tree analysis was used to retrospectively analyse clinical data from patients who underwent surgical treatment for earthquake-related injuries in the first 5 days after the earthquake. The CHAID classification tree explored the relationships between the development of disability and potential influencing factors including sex, age, time interval between injury and treatment, wound type, preoperative and postoperative haemoglobin levels, and operation time.

Results

A total of 334 patients underwent surgery; of these, 113 (33.8%) were discharged with varying degrees of permanent disability. The CHAID classification tree showed that children (≤17 years old), a long time interval between injury and treatment, an open wound and a low preoperative haemoglobin level were significant risk factors for disability.

Conclusion

The results of this study can help to stratify patients according to their medical needs and to help allocate the available resources efficiently to ensure the best outcomes for injured patients during future earthquakes.
The Pathology of Malignant Catarrhal Fever, With an Emphasis on Ovine Herpesvirus 2
Authors: O’Toole D. , Li H.
Published: February 2014

The enigmatic pathogenesis of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) involves dysregulated immune responses in susceptible ruminant species. Economically important outbreaks of MCF are due to 2 of the 10 viruses currently comprising the malignant catarrhal fever virus group: ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2) and alcelaphine herpesvirus 1 (AlHV-1). Attempts to develop effective vaccines for this group of viruses in the 1970s were sufficiently discouraging that they were temporarily abandoned. This review focuses on recent efforts to understand the pathogenesis of MCF, particularly the sheep-associated form of the disease, with the goal of developing rational control methods, including vaccination. The past 2 decades have seen several advances, including recognition of new members of the MCF virus group, better diagnostic assays, induction of disease by a natural route (aerosol), and clearer understanding of OvHV-2’s shedding patterns by domestic sheep. A consistent theme in experimental studies of OvHV-2 in susceptible species is that there are 2 peaks of OvHV-2 gene expression: a preclinical peak involving the respiratory tract and a second in multiple organ systems leading to clinical disease. Latent and lytic gene expression may coexist in tissues during clinical stages in symptomatic animals.
The Prevalence of Rotator Cuff Tears
Authors: Liem Dennis , Buschmann Vera Elisa , Schmidt Carolin , Gosheger Georg , Vogler Tim , Schulte Tobias L. , Balke Maurice
Published: February 2014

Background:

Rotator cuff tears are a common cause of pain and disability of the shoulder. Information on the prevalence and identification of potential risk factors could help in early detection of rotator cuff tears and improve treatment outcome.

Hypothesis:

Patients treated for a symptomatic rotator cuff tear on one side have a higher prevalence of rotator cuff tears and decreased shoulder function on the contralateral side compared with an age- and sex-matched group of healthy individuals.

Study Design:

Case control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

One group consisted of 55 patients who had been arthroscopically treated on one shoulder for rotator cuff tear (tear group). In this group, the nonoperated contralateral shoulder was examined. For comparison, the matching shoulder in a control group consisting of 55 subjectively healthy individuals matched by age (±1 year) and sex to the tear group was included. Diagnosis of a rotator cuff tear was made by ultrasound. Outcomes were measured using the Constant score.

Results:

The prevalence of supraspinatus tears was significantly higher ( P < .0001) in the tear group (67.3%) compared with the control group (11.0%). The Constant score for the activities of daily living subscale, however, was significantly lower (18.4) in the tear group compared with the control group (19.9; P = .012). No other subcategory score nor the overall score showed a significant difference. There was a significantly higher tear prevalence in the tear group of patients aged between 50 and 59 years ( P < .001) and 60 and 69 years ( P = .004). No tear was diagnosed in the control group in individuals younger than 60 years.

Conclusion:

Patients treated for partial and full-thickness rotator cuff tears have a significantly higher risk of having a tear on the contralateral side and have noticeable deficits in their shoulder function regarding activities of daily living even if the tear is otherwise asymptomatic.
Preparation and electrochemical performances of hexacyanoferrate-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) hydrogel
Authors: Han Yongqin , Guo Yi , Shen Mingxia , Duan Pengpeng , Yuan Zongyang , Zhang MingLi
Published: February 2014

In this article, potassium hexacyanoferrate (K3Fe(CN)6) was introduced into poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) hydrogel by in situ polymerization to prepare K3Fe(CN)6-doped PEDOT hydrogel. The specific capacitance of PEDOT hydrogel was efficiently increased by the doping effect of K3Fe(CN)6. The increase in capacitance achieved by introducing K3Fe(CN)6 into PEDOT hydrogel was attributed to the doping effect of anionic ferricyanide/ferrocyanide couple. The specific capacitance of PEDOT hydrogel increased from 38 F g−1 to the maximum value of 98 F g−1 (current density = 500 mA g−1) when the concentration of K3Fe(CN)6 reached 5 mM. On the basis of cycle life tests, the capacitance retention of about 75% for the doped PEDOT hydrogel after 5000 cycles suggested a high cycle stability of redox-active PEDOT hydrogel and its potential as an electrode material for supercapacitor applications.
Individual, communal and institutional responses to climate change by low-income households in Khulna, Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Anika Nasra , Dodman David , Hossain Md. Mohataz
Published: February 2014

The relationship between “coping” and “resilience” increasingly features in academic, policy and practical discussions on adaptation to climate change in urban areas. This paper examines this relationship in the context of households in “extreme poverty” in the city of Khulna, Bangladesh. It draws on a quantitative data set based on 550 household interviews in low-income and informal settlements that identified the extent of the underlying drivers of vulnerability in this setting, including very low income, inadequate shelter, poor nutritional status and limited physical assets. A series of focus groups were used to explore the ways in which physical hazards have interacted with this underlying vulnerability, as a means to understand the potential impacts of climate change on this particular group of urban residents. These outcomes include frequent water-logging, the destruction of houses and disruption to the provision of basic services. The main focus of the paper is on describing the practices of low-income urban residents in responding to climate-related shocks and stresses, placing these in a particular political context, and drawing lessons for urban policies in Bangladesh and elsewhere. A wide range of specific adaptation-related activities can be identified, which can be grouped into three main categories – individual, communal and institutional. The paper examines the extent to which institutional actions are merely “coping” – or whether they create the conditions in which individuals and households can strengthen their own long-term resilience. Similarly, it examines the extent to which individual and communal responses are merely “coping” – or whether they have the potential to generate broader political change that strengthens the position of marginalized groups in the city.
Re-thinking “Biomanizales”: addressing climate change adaptation in Manizales, Colombia
Authors: Hardoy Jorgelina , Velásquez Barrero Luz Stella
Published: February 2014

This paper reflects on how the city of Manizales, Colombia, is incorporating climate change adaptation into its plans, and how this can build on the foundations of the city’s long-established urban environmental policy (Biomanizales) and local environmental action plan (Bioplan) that have guided urban development and have developed incorporating disaster risk reduction into local development policies and local land use plans. The success is rooted in coherent, multi-level governance, including capacity to integrate disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, land use and territorial planning within a holistic view of development that includes the views and capacities of multiple stakeholders. As the process matures, an acknowledgment of weaknesses leads to improved ways of addressing climate-related risks and adaptation challenges.
Central nervous system toxicity after acute oral formaldehyde exposure in rabbits
Authors: Arici S , Karaman S , Dogru S , Cayli S , Arici A , Suren M , Karaman T , Kaya Z
Published: February 2014

Formaldehyde (FA) is one of the most widely used chemical compounds in industrial field. It is described as toxic, particularly to the nervous system, the urogenital system, and the respiratory tracts. In this study, we determined the effects of acute oral exposure to FA in rabbit brain tissue. A total of 16 rabbits were selected and divided into 2 groups: formaldehyde group (group F) and control group (group C). FA was administered to group F at a rate of 40 mg/kg/day via a nasogastric tube for 5 days. Saline was similarly administered to the eight controls. All the animals were euthanized after 5 days of exposure, and brain tissue samples were collected in 10% neutral formalin and embedded in paraffin. To investigate the effects of FA on the apoptotic process, we examined active caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2 immunohistochemical expression and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate –biotin nick-end labeling (TUNEL) reactivity in the rabbit brains. In addition, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was biochemically assessed in brain tissue samples for neurotoxicity. We found that FA treatment caused a significant decrease in Bcl-2 expression and an increase in active caspase-3 and Bax expressions as well as an increase in the number of TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells. The GFAP level was found to be significantly higher in group F. In conclusion, acute oral exposure to FA caused DNA damage, apoptosis, and neuronal injury in the rabbit brains.
The challenges facing public libraries in the Big Society: The role of volunteers, and the issues that surround their use in England
Authors: Casselden Biddy , Pickard Alison J. , McLeod Julie
Published: February 2014

The use of volunteers in English public libraries is nothing new, however their use is becoming ever greater and one may argue that we are increasingly seeing a mixed economy of public library provision, in the wider arena of the Big Society. This paper presents the findings of a Delphi Study of 15 library managers undertaken as part of a Professional Doctorate exploring the challenges facing public libraries in England today, particularly focusing on volunteer use. An overview of relevant supporting literature is provided to help contextualize the research, particularly focusing on concepts such as the political background surrounding policy development, community engagement, the Big Society, and volunteering. Explanation of how the Delphi Study was conducted is given, together with a discussion of the key findings. Results show that opinions of library managers cover a broad spectrum. Although volunteer use is generally viewed by the respondents as a good thing, with potential to further enhance a service and aid community engagement, there are also a number of concerns. These concerns particularly relate to the idea of the volunteer as a replacement to paid staff rather than an enhancement to the service. Other key concerns relate to the quality of service provision, the rationale behind volunteer use, and the capacity of communities to deliver. Volunteer use in public libraries on this scale is a new phenomenon, and the longevity of such a development is largely unknown. This raises the question as to whether this is simply a large scale ideological experiment, or a move to even greater community engagement?
Focal Laser Photocoagulation and Photodynamic Therapy for Lupus Choroidopathy
Authors: Cho HY , Nasir HH , Sobrin L
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To describe the results of photodynamic therapy (PDT) and/or focal laser photocoagulation in the treatment of serous retinal detachments secondary to lupus choroidopathy.

Methods

The medical records of three patients with serous detachments secondary to lupus choroidopathy who were treated with PDT and/or focal laser photocoagulation were reviewed. Concomitant systemic medical therapy as well as visual acuity and optical coherence tomography (OCT) outcomes were recorded.

Results

All patients received systemic immunosuppressive therapy and had control of their extraocular manifestations prior to PDT and/or laser photocoagulation. One patient received only focal laser photocoagulation and had complete resolution of the subretinal fluid on OCT. The two other patients received a combination of PDT and focal laser treatment. One had improvement in vision and resolution of subretinal fluid on OCT. The second patient, who had longstanding lupus choroidopathy and associated subretinal fluid and macular edema, had only a significant decrease in fluid on OCT but no vision improvement.

Conclusion

In conjunction with control of systemic disease, PDT and/or focal laser photocoagulation can be successful in resolving subretinal fluid secondary to lupus choroidopathy.
Analysis of cross-over studies with missing data
Authors: Rosenkranz Gerd K
Published: February 2014

This paper addresses some aspects of the analysis of cross-over trials with missing or incomplete data. A literature review on the topic reveals that many proposals provide correct results under the missing completely at random assumption while only some consider the more general missing at random situation. It is argued that mixed-effects models have a role in this context to recover some of the missing intra-subject from the inter-subject information, in particular when missingness is ignorable. Eventually, sensitivity analyses to deal with more general missingness mechanisms are presented.
Cross-Setting Correspondence in Sociometric Nominations Among Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Mikami Amori Yee , Hoza Betsy , Hinshaw Stephen P. , Arnold L. Eugene , Hechtman Lily , Pelham William E.
Published: February 2014

Peer problems are common among children with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD). However, the extent to which children’s peer functioning varies across settings is unknown, as is the incremental power of peer functioning in different settings in predicting subsequent psychopathology. Participants were 57 children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) who had peer sociometric nominations collected in general education classrooms and a Summer Treatment Program (STP) with all-EBD peers. Significant, small-to-medium correlations existed between nomination rates across settings. Lower rates of STP positive nominations and higher rates of STP negative nominations (but not classroom nominations) predicted exacerbated self-reported depression and antisocial behavior 1 year later. Lower rates of STP positive nominations, but higher rates of classroom positive nominations, predicted increased self-reported depression 2 years later. For children with high rates of classroom positive nominations, higher rates of STP positive nominations predicted reduced parent-reported internalizing behavior 1 year later. For children with low rates of classroom negative nominations, higher rates of STP negative nominations predicted increased teacher-reported externalizing behavior 1 year later and self-reported depression 2 years later. Results suggest that sociometric nominations collected within an EBD peer group may have stronger predictive power for later adjustment than nominations collected in a mainstream classroom.
“Brothers Under the Bridge”
Authors: Socia Kelly M. , Levenson Jill S. , Ackerman Alissa R. , Harris Andrew J.
Published: February 2014

The transience of registered sex offenders (RSOs) is a major impediment to reentry success, particularly because it has been linked to increased absconding and recidivism, and thus decreased community safety. Unfortunately, there is limited existing research on what factors most influence this transience. The purpose of this study was to identify and explore the relative influence of factors predicting transience for RSOs. Using data gathered from the Florida sex offender registry and multiple supplemental state and federal data sources, the analysis revealed a number of county- and individual-level characteristics that are associated with the likelihood of RSO transience. At the county level, these include residence restriction coverage, housing affordability, and population density. At the individual level, these include age, minority status, victim type (minor vs. adult), risk level, supervision status, and prior failure to register convictions. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
The facilitating role of smartphones in increasing use of value-added mobile services
Authors: Tojib Dewi , Tsarenko Yelena , Sembada Agung Y
Published: February 2014

This study proposes a conceptual framework for understanding the driving factors of value-added mobile services use. We offer a novel perspective, through an examination of the user–device relationship, on how the latent use of smartphones enhances the actual use of value-added mobile services. We grounded our framework in both the domestication and Apparatgeist theories as well as the findings from three focus groups. We tested the framework using self-reported data from 414 smartphone users. The findings demonstrate that the symbolic use of smartphones results in increased attachment to smartphones that in turn has a positive effect on deriving experiential value of using value-added mobile services. Symbolic use also has a positive relationship with value-expressiveness resulting from the use of such services. Both value-expressiveness and experiential value have a strong, positive relationship with overall user satisfaction that leads to an increase in the actual use of such services.
Uncertainty of Outcome Is Higher in the Champions League Than in the European Cup
Authors: Schokkaert Jeroen , Swinnen Johan
Published: February 2014

European Cup football has experienced a major change in format with the introduction of the Champions League (CL) in 1992 and a major change in admission rules with direct qualification for multiple teams from the highest ranked leagues in 1999. We show that, in line with popular press reports and other studies, qualification in lower rounds has become more predictable in the CL. At the same time, however, outcomes at later stages have become less predictable. We provide evidence and an explanation.
Acupuncture in the Treatment of Cancer-Related Psychological Symptoms
Authors: Haddad Nadia Elisabeth , Palesh Oxana
Published: February 2014

Acupuncture is being adopted by cancer patients for a wide range of cancer-related symptoms including highly prevalent psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, insomnia, and impairment in quality of life. Pharmacological treatment of prevalent symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance can contribute to the high chemical burden already carried by cancer patients, creating additional side effects. As a result, patients and providers alike are interested in evidence-based nonpharmacologic alternatives like acupuncture for these symptoms. This article reviews the current literature (January 2000 through April 2013) for acupuncture in cancer-related psychological symptoms with attention to both efficacy and acupuncture-specific methodology. All published studies that met our review criteria demonstrate a positive signal for acupuncture for the treatment of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and for improving quality of life with most results showing statistical significance. However, there are only a handful of acupuncture studies that were specifically designed to evaluate depression, sleep disturbance, and quality of life as primary outcomes, and no studies were found that looked at anxiety as a primary outcome in this population. Published studies in cancer patients and survivors show that acupuncture treatment is not only safe but also more acceptable with fewer side effects than standard of care pharmacological treatments like antidepressants. Finally, there is wide variability in both the implementation and reporting of acupuncture methods in the literature, with only 2 of 12 studies reporting full details of acupuncture methods as outlined in the revised Standards for Reporting Interventions in Clinical Trials of Acupuncture guidelines, published in 2010 and providing an essential framework for the reporting of acupuncture methodology. This lack of methodological detail affects outcomes, generalizability, and validity of research involving acupuncture. Reasons for ongoing challenges in the development of high-quality acupuncture trials are discussed. In conclusion, results are encouraging for the development of randomized trials to directly evaluate the therapeutic impact of acupuncture in cancer-related psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbance, and quality of life, but attention to acupuncture methodological specific challenges in the development of high-quality research is necessary.
Mouse bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells induce macrophage M2 polarization through the nuclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathways
Authors: Gao Shuo , Mao Fei , Zhang Bin , Zhang Ling , Zhang Xu , Wang Mei , Yan Yongmin , Yang Tingting , Zhang Jie , Zhu Wei , Qian Hui , Xu Wenrong
Published: February 2014

Increasing evidence has demonstrated that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-mediated regulation of macrophages is critical for inflammation response and tissue injury repair. However, the underlying mechanism is not well understood. In this study, we investigated the effect of mouse bone marrow-derived MSCs on macrophages under normal and inflammatory conditions. Co-culture with MSCs or treatment with MSC-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) reduced the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α while inducing the expression of interleukin 10 (IL-10) and arginase 1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse RAW264.7 cells and splenic CD11b+ cells. MSC-CM treatment increased the expression of CD206, a marker of alternatively activated M2 macrophages, in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, MSC-CM promoted the proliferation and migration of RAW264.7 cells. MSC-CM treatment activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) but inhibited nuclear factor-κB (NF–κB) pathways in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, STAT3 inhibitor S3I-201 antagonized the induction of IL-10, arginase 1, and CD206 by MSC-CM in RAW264.7 cells. Conclusively, our findings suggest that mouse MSCs induce macrophage M2 activation through the NF-κB and STAT3 pathways.
Effects of all-trans retinoic acid on signal pathway of cyclooxygenase-2 and Smad3&7 in transforming growth factor-β-stimulated glomerular mesangial cells
Authors: Han Jinyi , Zhang Li , Chen Xiaolan , Yang Bin , Guo Naifeng , Fan Yaping
Published: February 2014

All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has been used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. It remains unclear, however, whether ATRA affects cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2; an enzyme involved in prostaglandin production), PGE2, and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) (metabolic products of COX-2) by a transforming growth factor-β/Smad-signaling pathway, which plays important roles in mesangial-cell proliferation and renal fibrosis. In this study, the mRNA and protein of Smad3, Smad7, and COX-2 were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively, in mesangial cells stimulated by transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and treated with ATRA at various concentrations and times. The protein level of PGE2 and TXA2 was also measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The localization of Smad3 and Smand7 was observed by confocal microscope. Cell proliferation was detected by MTT assay, while apoptosis was determined using Hoechest staining. The expression of Smad3, Smad7, and COX-2 mRNA and protein was increased by exogenous TGF-β, but inhibited by pretreatment of ATRA, in dose and time-dependent manners. In addition, the expression of Smad3 and Smad7 was significantly reduced not only by staurosporine, an inhibitor of threonine/serine protein kinases as well as smad, but also by NS-398, an inhibitor of COX-2. PGE2 and TXA2 were raised by TGF-β, but also decreased by ATRA, staurosporine, and NS-398. Moreover, ATRA reversed the translocation of Smad3 and Smad7 induced by TGF-β. Compared with the control, TGF-β also significantly enhanced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of mesangial cells. ATRA dose-dependently inhibited TGF-β-induced cell proliferation, but had no significant effect on apoptosis in rat mesangial cells. Therefore, ATRA repressed COX-2, PGE2, and TXA2 via the TGF-β/Smad-signaling pathway and inhibited mesangial-cell proliferation, which might subsequently prevent renal fibrosis.
Teachers’ perceptions of the utilization of emotional competence by their school leaders in Gauteng South Africa
Authors: Grobler Bennie
Published: February 2014

Attempts to improve poor academic performance in South African public schools resulted in the Schooling 2025 mandate, which stipulated the academic standards that learners needed to achieve by 2014. As school leaders must do this through their teachers the emotional tensions associated with such changes are likely to increase. This paper investigates the use of emotional competence by school leaders via the perceptions of their teachers. Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses of the data obtained from a random sample of 2386 teachers indicated that the postulated five sub-dimensions associated with emotional competence could be reduced to two, namely intrapersonal and interpersonal. The Structural Equation Model suggested a strong positive causal relationship between the two competences and hence a good understanding and regulation of one’s own emotions, influences, understanding and relationships with others. A school leader with a good understanding of their personal emotional competence will have a greater influence on social orientation towards others and possibly lead to improved interpersonal competence. In the South African context it was found that both competences are associated with gender, school type, socio-economic contexts of the learners and home language of the educators.
Principal preparedness for leading in demographically changing schools
Authors: Miller Catherine M , Martin Barbara N
Published: February 2014

This multi-case study sought to construct meaning using a cultural capital lens in relation to educational leadership preparation programs building the capacities of social justice leaders in demographically changing schools. Data revealed principals’ perceptions about preparation, expectations and general beliefs and assumptions related to leadership for social justice emphasizing contradictions between principals’ equity-oriented rhetoric and their underlying beliefs and assumptions affecting their diverse school populations. The implications for research and practice include opportunities that principals and principal preparation programs have to implement to keep leadership for social justice at the forefront of the charge to equitably educate all children.
The Resolution Integral – a tool for characterising the performance of diagnostic ultrasound scanners
Authors: Moran Carmel M , Inglis Scott , Pye Stephen D
Published: February 2014

In this paper, we describe how the resolution integral can be used as a tool for characterising the grey-scale imaging of diagnostic ultrasound scanners. The definitions of resolution integral, characteristic resolution and depth of field are discussed in relation to grey-scale imaging performance, together with a method of measuring these parameters using the Edinburgh Pipe Phantom. We show how the characteristic resolution and depth of field can be used to quantify the differences between transducers designed for different applications and how they are useful in identifying and quantifying changes in the performance of individual transducers.
Bone and brain metastasis in lung cancer: recent advances in therapeutic strategies
Authors: D’Antonio Chiara , Passaro Antonio , Gori Bruno , Del Signore Ester , Migliorino Maria Rita , Ricciardi Serena , Fulvi Alberto , de Marinis Filippo
Published: February 2014

Bone and brain metastases are a very common secondary localization of disease in patients with lung cancer. The prognosis of these patients is still poor with a median survival of less than 1 year. Current therapeutic approaches include palliative radiotherapy and systemic therapy with chemotherapy and targeted agents. For bone metastasis, zoledronic acid is the most commonly used bisphosphonate to prevent, reduce the incidence and delay the onset of skeletal-related events (SREs). Recently, denosumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against the receptor activator of nuclear factor κB (RANK) ligand inhibiting the maturation of pre-osteoclasts into osteoclasts, showed increased time to SREs and overall survival compared with zoledronic acid. The treatment of brain metastasis is still controversial. Available standard therapeutic options, such as whole brain radiation therapy and systemic chemotherapy, provide a slight improvement in local control, overall survival and symptom relief. More recently, novel target agents such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) erlotinib, gefitinib and afatinib have shown activity in patients with brain metastasis. Inter alia, in patients harboring EGFR mutations, the administration of EGFR TKIs is followed by a response rate of 70–80%, and a longer progression-free and overall survival than those obtained with standard chemotherapeutic regimens. This review is focused on the evidence for therapeutic strategies in bone and brain metastases due to lung cancer.
Pancreatitis Quality of Life Instrument: Development of a new instrument
Authors: Wassef Wahid , Bova Carol , Barton Bruce , Hartigan Celia
Published: February 2014

Objectives:

The goal of this project was to develop the first disease-specific instrument for the evaluation of quality of life in chronic pancreatitis.

Methods:

Focus groups and interview sessions were conducted, with chronic pancreatitis patients, to identify items felt to impact quality of life which were subsequently formatted into a paper-and-pencil instrument. This instrument was used to conduct an online survey by an expert panel of pancreatologists to evaluate its content validity. Finally, the modified instrument was presented to patients during precognitive testing interviews to evaluate its clarity and appropriateness.

Results:

In total, 10 patients were enrolled in the focus groups and interview sessions where they identified 50 items. Once redundant items were removed, the 40 remaining items were made into a paper-and-pencil instrument referred to as the Pancreatitis Quality of Life Instrument. Through the processes of content validation and precognitive testing, the number of items in the instrument was reduced to 24.

Conclusions:

This marks the development of the first disease-specific instrument to evaluate quality of life in chronic pancreatitis. It includes unique features not found in generic instruments (economic factors, stigma, and spiritual factors). Although this marks a giant step forward, psychometric evaluation is still needed prior to its clinical use.
Outcomes of Total Knee Arthroplasty in Relation to Preoperative Patient-Reported and Radiographic Measures
Authors: Kahn Timothy L. , Soheili Aydin , Schwarzkopf Ran
Published: February 2014

Introduction:

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the preferred surgical treatment for end-stage osteoarthritis. However, substantial numbers of patients still experience poor outcomes. Consequently, it is important to identify which patient characteristics are predictive of outcomes in order to guide clinical decisions. Our hypothesis is that preoperative patient-reported outcome measures and radiographic measures may help to predict TKA outcomes.

Methods:

Using cohort data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, we studied 172 patients who underwent TKA. For each patient, we compiled pre- and postoperative Western Ontario and McMaster University Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scores. Radiographs were measured for knee joint angles, femorotibial angles, anatomical lateral distal femoral angles, and anatomical medial proximal tibial angles; Kellgren and Lawrence (KL) grades were assigned to each compartment of the knee. All studied measurements were compared to WOMAC outcomes.

Results:

Preoperative WOMAC disability, pain, and total scores were positively associated with postoperative WOMAC total scores ( P = .010, P = .010, and P = .009, respectively) and were associated with improvement in WOMAC total scores ( P < .001, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively). For radiographic measurements, preoperative joint angles were positively associated with improvements in postoperative WOMAC total scores ( P = .044). Combined KL grades (medial and lateral compartments) were negatively correlated with postoperative WOMAC disability and pain scores ( P = .045 and P = .044) and were positively correlated with improvements in WOMAC total scores ( P = .001).

Conclusions:

All preoperative WOMAC scores demonstrated positive associations with postoperative WOMAC scores, while among the preoperative radiographic measurements only combined KL grades and joint angles showed any correlation with postoperative WOMAC scores. Higher preoperative KL grades and joint angles were associated with better (lower) postoperative WOMAC scores, demonstrating an inverse correlation.
Corrosion and nanoindentation studies of MAO coatings
Authors: Dey A. , Umarani R. , Thota H. K. , Bandyopadhyay P. , Rajendra A. , Sharma A. K. , Mukhopadhyay A. K.
Published: February 2014

Ceramic coatings have been developed on AZ31B Mg alloys by micro arc oxidation (MAO) technique, using a mixture of sodium phosphate and sodium fluoride electrolytes. Further, MAO coatings were sealed by the conventional hot water immersion technique. The coatings were characterised by X-ray diffraction, potentiodynamic polarisation, mechanical as well as optical profilometry and nanoindentation techniques. The results showed that the surface roughness and related parameters were always higher after the corrosion test in comparison to as developed MAO coatings, the corrosion resistance of the sealed MAO coatings were enhanced in comparison to unsealed coatings and the MAO coatings had nanohardness ∼10 times and Young's modulus about two times as high as those of the AZ31B Mg alloys. Further, the characteristic scatter in the data was treated by the application of Weibull statistical method. These results are discussed in terms changes in microstructure of the MAO coatings, especially after sealing.
Crystal structure of histidine-rich glycoprotein N2 domain reveals redox activity at an interdomain disulfide bridge: implications for angiogenic regulation
Authors: Kassaar Omar , McMahon Stephen A. , Thompson Rory , Botting Catherine H. , Naismith James H. , Stewart Alan J.
Published: February 2014

Key Points

The x-ray crystal structure of the N2 domain from HRG at 1.93 Å resolution is presented. The structure reveals an S-glutathionyl adduct at Cys185, which has implications for angiogenic regulation.
Contribution of cerebrospinal fluid sCD19 levels to the detection of CNS lymphoma and its impact on disease outcome
Authors: Muñiz Carmen , Martín-Martín Lourdes , López Antonio , Sánchez-González Blanca , Salar Antonio , Almeida Julia , Sancho Juan-Manuel , Ribera José María , Heras Cecilia , Peñalver Francisco Javier , Gómez Marta , González-Barca Eva , Alonso Natalia , Navarro Belén , Olave Teresa , Sala Francisco , Conde Eulogio , Márquez José Antonio , Cabezudo Elena , Cladera Antonia , García-Malo María , Caballero María Dolores , Orfao Alberto
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Increased levels of sCD19 protein in the CSF are associated with CNS disease in DLBCL and BL patients at risk of CNS lymphoma. Presence of lymphoma cells by FCM and/or increased CSF sCD19 levels are related with a poorer EFS and/or OS in DLBCL and BL patients.
Quantitative phosphoproteomics unveils temporal dynamics of thrombin signaling in human endothelial cells
Authors: van den Biggelaar Maartje , Hernández-Fernaud Juan Ramon , van den Eshof Bart L. , Neilson Lisa J. , Meijer Alexander B. , Mertens Koen , Zanivan Sara
Published: February 2014

Key Points

This is the first time-resolved quantitative phosphoproteomic analysis of thrombin signaling in human endothelial cells. We provide 2224 phosphosites regulated by thrombin as a unique resource for future studies on thrombin and PAR signaling.
VEGF-D-induced draining lymphatic enlargement and tumor lymphangiogenesis promote lymph node metastasis in a xenograft model of ovarian carcinoma
Authors: Du Li-Cheng , Chen Xian-Cheng , Wang Dong , Wen Yan-Jun , Wang Chun-Ting , Wang Xue-Mei , Kan Bing , Wei Yu-Quan , Zhao Xia
Published: February 2014

Background

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-D has been shown to promote lymph node metastasis in several cancers. Although generally overexpressed in ovarian carcinoma, its role in nodal dissemination of this cancer is unclear. To clarify the role of VEGF-D and the underlying molecular mechanisms, we investigated the function of VEGF-D using a mouse xenograft model of ovarian cancer.

Methods

Human ovarian serous adenocarcinoma SKOV3 cells were transfected with VEGF-D recombinant plasmid DNA, or with control vectors. The cells were injected subcutaneously into the footpads of nude mice. Tumor growth was evaluated weekly. Draining lymphatics were observed grossly with Evan’s blue lymphangiography. Tumoral lymphatics were delineated with both Evan’s blue and LYVE-1 immunostaining. Tumor metastases to lymph nodes were evaluated by H&E and CA125/CD40 staining. Expression of VEGF-D in primary tumors and levels of CA125 in involved lymph nodes were examined by immunohistochemistry. Tumor cell apoptosis was analyzed by Hoechst dyeing.

Results

Mice bearing VEGF-D overexpressing xenografts showed a significantly higher rate of lymph node metastasis and markedly greater tumor volume compared with the controls. The functional lymphatic vessels were denser and enlarged in marginal and central tumor portions. Additionally, higher CA125 expression was observed in the involved lymph nodes. Mice bearing VEGF-D overexpressing xenografts also exhibited a markedly lower apoptotic index compared with the controls.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate the important role of VEGF-D in promoting lymph node metastasis by increasing tumor lymphangiogenesis, stimulating draining lymphatic vessel formation, and enhancing tumor invasiveness. Our findings show that VEGF-D can be a promising therapeutic target for ovarian cancer.
Fast urinary screening of oligosaccharidoses by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry
Authors: Bonesso Laurent , Piraud Monique , Caruba Céline , Van Obberghen Emmanuel , Mengual Raymond , Hinault Charlotte
Published: February 2014

Background

Oligosaccharidoses, which belong to the lysosomal storage diseases, are inherited metabolic disorders due to the absence or the loss of function of one of the enzymes involved in the catabolic pathway of glycoproteins and indirectly of glycosphingolipids. This enzymatic deficiency typically results in the abnormal accumulation of uncompletely degraded oligosaccharides in the urine. Since the clinical features of many of these disorders are not specific for a single enzyme deficiency, unambiguous screening is critical to limit the number of costly enzyme assays which otherwise must be performed.

Methods

Here we provide evidence for the advantages of using a MALDI-TOF/TOF (matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight) mass spectrometric (MS) method for screening oligosaccharidoses. Urine samples from previously diagnosed patients or from unaffected subjects were randomly divided into a training set and a blind testing set. Samples were directly analyzed without prior treatment.

Results

The characteristic MS and MS/MS molecular profiles obtained allowed us to identify fucosidosis, aspartylglucosaminuria, GM1 gangliosidosis, Sandhoff disease, α-mannosidosis, sialidosis and mucolipidoses type II and III.

Conclusions

This method, which is easily run in less than 30 minutes, is performed in a single step, and is sensitive and specific. Invaluable for clinical chemistry purposes this MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry procedure is semi-automatizable and suitable for the urinary screening of oligosacharidoses.
An exploration of parents' preferences for foot care in juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a possible role for the discrete choice experiment
Authors: Hendry Gordon J , Turner Debbie E , Gardner‐Medwin Janet , Lorgelly Paula K , Woodburn James
Published: February 2014

Background

An increased awareness of patients' and parents' care preferences regarding foot care is desirable from a clinical perspective as such information may be utilised to optimise care delivery. The aim of this study was to examine parents' preferences for, and valuations of foot care and foot‐related outcomes in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

A discrete choice experiment (DCE) incorporating willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) questions was conducted by surveying 42 parents of children with JIA who were enrolled in a randomised‐controlled trial of multidisciplinary foot care at a single UK paediatric rheumatology outpatients department. Attributes explored were: levels of pain; mobility; ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL); waiting time; referral route; and footwear. The DCE was administered at trial baseline. DCE data were analysed using a multinomial‐logit‐regression model to estimate preferences and relative importance of attributes of foot care. A stated‐preference WTP question was presented to estimate parents' monetary valuation of health and service improvements.

Results

Every attribute in the DCE was statistically significant (p < 0.01) except that of cost (p = 0.118), suggesting that all attributes, except cost, have an impact on parents' preferences for foot care for their child. The magnitudes of the coefficients indicate that the strength of preference for each attribute was (in descending order): improved ability to perform ADL, reductions in foot pain, improved mobility, improved ability to wear desired footwear, multidisciplinary foot care route, and reduced waiting time. Parents' estimated mean annual WTP for a multidisciplinary foot care service was £1,119.05.

Conclusions

In terms of foot care service provision for children with JIA, parents appear to prefer improvements in health outcomes over non‐health outcomes and service process attributes. Cost was relatively less important than other attributes suggesting that it does not appear to impact on parents' preferences.
“In the Same Predicament as Heretofore”: Proremoval Arguments in Seneca Letters from the Buffalo Creek Reservation in the 1830s and 1840s
Authors: Haake Claudia B.
Published: February 2014

This article discusses the arguments made by Seneca supporters of the United States' removal policy and notes the similarity of these arguments to those made by the policy's Iroquois supporters. Yet while one group used their criticisms as a way of rejecting removal, the other instead sought to shape it. I conclude that the main difference distinguishing the argumentation of the opposing groups was their use of the concept of law, with the removal advocates limiting themselves to drawing on US law, albeit in what appears to have been an attempt to gain their independence from US governmental control and supervision. They may also have seen removal in the tradition of older ways of resolving disputes through temporary fragmentation.
“I Call You Cousins”: Kinship, Religion, and Black-Indian Relations in Nineteenth-Century Michigan
Authors: Dickerson-Cousin Christina
Published: February 2014

Scholars of black and Indian relations typically characterize the nineteenth century as a period of severe interracial tension. The legacy of slavery and the increasing racial stratification of American society helped to create this friction. However, in Michigan during this time there was an Ojibwe named John Hall who joined and became a missionary in the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, a historically significant black denomination. Hall felt camaraderie with blacks because, like Indians, they had endured oppression at the hands of whites. Also, he felt bonded to them because of the similarities he saw in black and Indian worship practices. To express his feelings of closeness with black people, Hall frequently referred to them using kinship terms like “brother” and “cousin.” As an AME missionary, Hall visited native communities throughout Michigan and encouraged them to join this black denomination. His efforts demonstrated that during this racially contentious time, there were Indians who saw the value in connecting with their black “cousins” and who initiated that contact.