bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public and Corporate Governance and Young Global Entrepreneurial Firms
Authors: Zahra Shaker A.
Published: March 2014

Manuscript Type

Conceptual

Research Question/Issue

New ventures are internationalizing their operations from inception. This creates opportunities for growth and profitability. However, early internationalization creates serious challenges for effective governance. This article focuses on two key layers of governance (public and corporate) and how they interact to influence global entrepreneurial young firms, especially those “born globals” that enter foreign markets from inception (e.g., internet companies) or soon after their establishment, also known as early internationalizers. Though established companies also create new businesses dedicated to international business, they differ in fundamental ways from their younger counterparts that venture into international markets. Therefore, in this article, we focus on those global entrepreneurial young companies. We propose that the interaction of public and corporate governance systems has important implications for global entrepreneurial young firms' strategic choices as they seek to position themselves in their markets. Ideally, public and corporate governance systems combine to ensure the viability, survival and success of these firms.

Research Findings/Insights

Born global and early internationalizing new ventures encounter distinct problems centered on free riding and management of intellectual property. Public governance establishes the essential framework that can guide the resolution of these issues. Corporate governance systems interact with public governance to harmonize the interests of different claimants, especially in disputes that arise across national borders. Corporate governance systems not only ensure effective monitoring of owner‐managers but define what they do and how to do it in a highly globalized environment.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The article shows how public and corporate governance systems interact over time, determining the fate of global new ventures. It also articulates how these systems define and protect intellectual property rights. The discussion highlights the role of governance in a global marketplace where intangibles define success and failure, pointing out the efficacy of traditional agency theory while underscoring the need for revising its boundaries. Future theorizing should consider diversity of managerial motives, and these motives are influenced by national institutions. As a result, we should not start with the assumption that the interests of firms and owners are perfectly aligned.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

There is a need to understand the dynamic interplay between public and corporate governance systems, placing a greater focus on value creation across international borders. This interplay defines what managers (owner‐managers) do and how they lead their ventures in a global environment, one that is characterized by political and institutional uncertainties. The discussion makes clear that national institutions shape the definition and performance of managerial decisions and roles.
Ponatinib‐induced neutrophilic panniculitis
Authors: Zhang May , Hassan Khaled M. , Musiek Amy , Rosman Ilana S.
Published: March 2014

Ponatinib is a bcr‐abl tyrosine‐kinase inhibitor (TKI) used to treat resistant and refractory chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia that express bcr‐abl. Neutrophilic panniculitis has been described in rare cases of patients on other TKIs in the same class as ponatinib. We present the first case of neutrophilic panniculitis following treatment with ponatinib and summarize the other cases of panniculitis caused by TKIs.
Hospitalisations and out‐of‐home placements of children of substance‐abusing mothers: A register‐based cohort study
Authors: Raitasalo Kirsimarja , Holmila Marja , Autti‐Rämö Ilona , Notkola Irma‐L. , Tapanainen Heli
Published: March 2014

Introduction and Aims

To study (i) whether the children of substance‐abusing mothers are hospitalised because of injury or illness more often than other children; (ii) how often these children are placed out of home; and (iii) how the type of substance used by the mother affects her children.

Design and Methods

This was a retrospective population‐based cohort study based on Finnish health care and social welfare registers. The participants were all children born in Finland in 2002 (n = 55 369) and their biological mothers (n = 54 519). Mothers with register entries related to substance abuse in the period 1998–2009 were defined as having a substance abuse problem. Children were followed up for their first seven years of life for hospitalisations because of injuries and infectious diseases and out‐of‐home placements. The associations between hospitalisation and out‐of‐home care and mothers' type of substance abuse were estimated using logistic regression. The child's gender and the mother's psychiatric disorders and socio‐demographic characteristics obtained from the registers were standardised in the final models.

Results

Based on the register data, 2% of mothers had a substance abuse problem. Alcohol problems were more common than drug problems. Children with substance‐abusing mothers were more often hospitalised because of injuries and infectious diseases than other children. They had also been placed out of home more often. Mothers' abuse of both alcohol and drugs was a bigger risk for the child than solely alcohol or solely drug abuse.

Discussion and Conclusions

The mother's substance abuse has negative outcomes on the child's immediate environment, which affects the health and safety of the child. [Raitasalo K, Holmila M, Autti‐Rämö I, Notkola IL, Tapanainen H. Hospitalisations and out‐of‐home placements of children of substance‐abusing mothers: A register‐based cohort study. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;34:38–45]
The association of early‐life and substance use risks to violent offending among injecting drug users
Authors: Torok Michelle , Darke Shane , Kaye Sharlene , Shand Fiona
Published: March 2014

Introduction and Aims

It remains unclear whether violent offending among injecting drug users (IDU) is the direct result of drug use factors or whether they are predisposed to violent behaviour from childhood. The current study sought to identify substance use and early‐life correlates of lifetime violent offending among IDUs and to determine what risks contributed to recent violent offending.

Design and Methods

Three hundred community‐based regular IDUs were administered a face‐to‐face cross‐sectional structured interview examining correlates of violent offending.

Results

One‐third (34%) of IDUs had committed violence in the past 12 months, 42% more than 12 months ago and 24% had never been violent. Predispositional and substance use risk profiles were poorer among IDUs who had been violent, but many of these risks were even more prevalent and severe among those who had been violent in the past 12 months. Multinomial logistic regression found that IDUs who had been violent in the past 12 months had greater polysubstance and higher trait aggressive personalities than the other IDUs, whereas they were further differentiated from non‐recent violent IDUs in having more involvement in drug dealing and more likely to screen positive for conduct disorder.

Discussion and Conclusions

Drug use factors alone did not adequately explain the likelihood of violent offending among IDUs. Instead, there appeared to be complex interactions between early‐life risks and substance use which created a liability to violent offending, and the level of exposure to these risks appeared to explain differences in violent offending patterns. [Torok M, Darke S, Kaye S, Shand F. The association of early‐life and substance use risks to violent offending among IDUs. Drug Alcohol Rev 2015;34:10–7]
Shelter recovery in urban Haiti after the earthquake: the dual role of social capital
Authors: Rahill Guitele J. , Ganapati N. Emel , Clérismé J. Calixte , Mukherji Anuradha
Published: March 2014

This paper documents the culture‐specific understanding of social capital among Haitians and examines its benefits and downsides in post‐disaster shelter recovery following the 12 January 2010 earthquake. The case study of shelter recovery processes in three socioeconomically diverse communities (Pétion‐Ville, Delmas and Canapé Vert) in Port‐au‐Prince suggests that social capital plays dual roles in post‐disaster shelter recovery of the displaced population in Haiti. On the one hand, it provides enhanced access to shelter‐related resources for those with connections. On the other hand, it accentuates pre‐existing inequalities or creates new inequalities among displaced Haitians. In some cases, such inequalities lead to tensions between the have and have‐nots and instigate violence among the displaced.
The barriers to environmental sustainability in post‐disaster settings: a case study of transitional shelter implementation in Haiti
Authors: Abrahams Daniel
Published: March 2014

Disaster recovery operations that do not account for environmental sustainability (ES) risk exacerbating the impact of the disaster and hindering long‐term recovery efforts. Yet aid agencies do not always consider ES. This research is a case study of the recovery that followed the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Using timber and concrete procurement as proxies for broader post‐disaster operations, research examined perceptions of ES as well as attempts at and barriers to incorporating it into programming. Identified barriers can be grouped into two categories: (1) prioritisations and perceptions within the disaster response sector that resulted in limited enthusiasm for incorporating ES into programming, and (2) structural and organisational barriers within the disaster response framework that impeded ES attempts and served as a further disincentive to incorporating ES into programming. As a result of those barriers, incorporation of ES was sporadic and inconsistent and often depended on the capacity and motivation of specific implementers.
Malfunctioning of the autonomic nervous system in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome: a systematic literature review
Authors: Van Cauwenbergh Deborah , Nijs Jo , Kos Daphne , Van Weijnen Laura , Struyf Filip , Meeus Mira
Published: March 2014

Introduction

It is hypothesised that the autonomic nervous system responds differently to various stressors in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) compared with healthy controls. The goal is to systematically review the scientific literature addressing the functioning of the autonomic nervous system in patients with CFS.

Materials and methods

All studies that were identified through electronic databases (PubMed and Web of Science) were screened for eligibility based on the selection criteria and assessed (two independent raters) for methodological quality using a methodological checklist for case–control studies.

Results

Twenty‐seven case–control studies were included. The methodological quality varied between 50% and 71·4%. Some studies showed different responses to head‐up tilt and other autonomous testing.

Conclusion

Although comparison between the included case–control studies was difficult, we can conclude that there are differences in autonomous response between patients with CFS and healthy controls. The heart rate dynamic response during the head‐up tilt test differs between patients with CFS and healthy controls, supporting the increased prevalence of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. The autonomic response can be useful for the diagnosis of CFS.
THE WELFARE EFFECTS OF THIRD‐DEGREE PRICE DISCRIMINATION IN A DIFFERENTIATED OLIGOPOLY
Authors: ADACHI TAKANORI , MATSUSHIMA NORIAKI
Published: March 2014

This article examines the welfare effects of third‐degree price discrimination under oligopolistic competition with horizontal product differentiation. We derive a necessary and sufficient condition for price discrimination to improve social welfare: the degree of substitution must be sufficiently greater in the “strong” market (where the discriminatory price is higher than the uniform price) than in the “weak” market (where it is lower). It is verified, however, that consumer surplus is never improved; social welfare improves solely owing to an increase in the firms' profits in the case of linear demands. (JEL D43, L11, L13)
Parental care influences social immunity in burying beetle larvae
Authors: REAVEY CATHERINE E. , BEARE LAURA , COTTER SHEENA C.
Published: March 2014

In this study, evidence is provided of social immunity in the offspring of a sub‐social species, the burying beetle, Nicrophorus vespilloides.

Nicrophorus vespilloides is a carrion breeder and, in a similar fashion to the adult beetles, the offspring produce exudates that exhibit lytic activity, which are used to coat the breeding resource. This strategy defends against the microbial community.

The lytic activity in larval exudates declines as the brood develops, perhaps being most beneficial at the start of the breeding bout.

Changing levels of parental care through widowing/orphaning affects lytic activity in the larval exudates, with levels decreasing in the absence of both parents.
Editorial: The Ranking Game
Authors: Kehm Barbara M. , Erkkilä Tero
Published: March 2014

A video abstract of this article can be viewed at http://youtu.be/jZDm8HrNLzw
Distinct axo‐somato‐dendritic distributions of three potassium channels in CA1 hippocampal pyramidal cells
Authors: Kirizs Tekla , Kerti‐Szigeti Katalin , Lorincz Andrea , Nusser Zoltan
Published: March 2014

Potassium channels comprise the most diverse family of ion channels and play critical roles in a large variety of physiological and pathological processes. In addition to their molecular diversity, variations in their distributions and densities on the axo‐somato‐dendritic surface of neurons are key parameters in determining their functional impact. Despite extensive electrophysiological and anatomical investigations, the exact location and densities of most K+ channels in small subcellular compartments are still unknown. Here we aimed at providing a quantitative surface map of two delayed‐rectifier (Kv1.1 and Kv2.1) and one G‐protein‐gated inwardly rectifying (Kir3.2) K+ channel subunits on hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cells (PCs). Freeze‐fracture replica immunogold labelling was employed to determine the relative densities of these K+ channel subunits in 18 axo‐somato‐dendritic compartments. Significant densities of the Kv1.1 subunit were detected on axon initial segments (AISs) and axon terminals, with an approximately eight‐fold lower density in the latter compartment. The Kv2.1 subunit was found in somatic, proximal dendritic and AIS plasma membranes at approximately the same densities. This subunit has a non‐uniform plasma membrane distribution; Kv2.1 clusters are frequently adjacent to, but never overlap with, GABAergic synapses. A quasi‐linear increase in the Kir3.2 subunit density along the dendrites of PCs was detected, showing no significant difference between apical dendritic shafts, oblique dendrites or dendritic spines at the same distance from the soma. Our results demonstrate that each subunit has a unique cell‐surface distribution pattern, and predict their differential involvement in synaptic integration and output generation at distinct subcellular compartments.
Regulation of vitellogenin genes in insects
Authors: Tufail Muhammad , Nagaba Yoshiki , Elgendy Azza Mohamed , Takeda Makio
Published: March 2014

Vitellogenins (Vg) genes code for the major egg yolk protein precursor in insects and many other oviparous species. In insects, the Vg gene is expressed extra‐ovarially in the fat body in sex‐, tissue‐ and stage‐specific manners. During the reproductive phase, the Vg mRNA is expressed in large quantities, which is then translated, secreted into hemolymph and ultimately taken up by the developing oocytes through receptor‐mediated endocytosis. Once sequestered, the Vgs are stored as vitellin (Vn), the main nutritional reserve for the developing embryo. The regulation of Vg genes is directly under the control of hormones at the transcriptional level. Hormones involved in Vg gene transcription are juvenile hormone (JH), ecdysteroids and some neuropeptides. The overall understanding that has emerged is that the insects can be classified, based on the system of hormonal regulation of Vg gene transcription, into three groups: (i) insects (like most of hemipterans) that use only JH for Vg gene transcription; (ii) insects (like dipterans) that need both JH and ecdysteroids for Vg regulation; and (iii) insects like lepidopterans that require JH, ecdysteroids and additional hormones to regulate their reproductive biology. However, why insect species diverge in using different hormones to govern their reproductive physiology remains unclear. The present contribution focuses on the current status of knowledge regarding the regulation of Vg genes in insects. Besides a brief information on biochemical and molecular features, the role of Vg genes as a target of endocrine disruptors will be addressed. Also, the molecular mechanism of Vg gene regulation will be discussed.
Perampanel for adjunctive treatment of partial‐onset seizures: A pooled dose–response analysis of phase III studies
Authors: Kramer Lynn D. , Satlin Andrew , Krauss Gregory L. , French Jacqueline , Perucca Emilio , Ben‐Menachem Elinor , Kwan Patrick , Shih Jerry J. , Laurenza Antonio , Yang Haichen , Zhu Jin , Squillacote David
Published: March 2014

Objective

To better understand the relationship between efficacy and perampanel dose, integrated actual (last) dose data from three phase III trials and an extension study (blinded Conversion Period; open‐label Maintenance Period) were analyzed.

Methods

Seizure frequency data were analyzed in patients who were randomized to and completed the 13‐week Maintenance Period of the phase III studies on perampanel 8 mg, and who received an actual (last) dose of 12 mg during (1) the extension 16‐week blinded Conversion Period or (2) weeks 1–13 of the extension Maintenance Period. Due to a treatment‐by‐region interaction (p = 0.042), analyses excluded patients from the Latin America region (n = 162/1,480; 10.9% of the treated cohort).

Results

Of 372 patients randomized to 8 mg in the phase III studies, 273 completed the Maintenance Period at 8 mg and 267 entered the extension study. In patients who then had an actual (last) dose of 12 mg during the extension blinded Conversion Period (n = 217), median percent change in seizure frequency per 28 days improved from −32.4% (8 mg, phase III Maintenance Period) to −44.2% (12 mg, extension blinded Conversion Period); 50% responder rates increased slightly from 37.3% to 42.9%. In patients who completed the phase III studies on 8 mg and had an actual (last) dose of 12 mg during weeks 1–13 of the extension Maintenance Period (n = 181), median percent change in seizure frequency per 28 days improved from −34.1% (phase III Maintenance Period) to −46.0% (weeks 1–13 extension Maintenance Period); 50% responder rates were 39.2% and 46.4%. Seizure control remained substantially unchanged in patients who completed the phase III studies at 12 mg and continued on that dose during the extension.

Significance

Increasing perampanel dose from 8 to 12 mg can produce additional benefits in seizure control in at least some patients who tolerate the higher dose.
Eat or Not to Eat: Reversed Sexual Cannibalism as a Male Foraging Strategy in the SpiderMicaria sociabilis(Araneae: Gnaphosidae)
Authors: Sentenská Lenka , Pekár Stano
Published: March 2014

Reversed sexual cannibalism represents an unusual situation in which a male kills and consumes a female. We examined this rare phenomenon in the spiderMicaria sociabilis, whose males were observed to regularly cannibalise old females. In this study, we investigated male motivation for such behaviour in the light of ecological conditions such as mate availability and prey availability. We found that male cannibalism is not affected by short‐term starvation but rather by male feeding history during the ontogenetic development in combination with prey availability during the adult stage. Males from the summer generation reached bigger sizes than males from the spring generation and females from both generations. They developed in the period with exceptionally high prey occurrence, but when they reached the adult stage, the prey availability decreased. In this period, we observed the highest frequency of cannibalism, however, only when the sex ratio was female biased. Reversed sexual cannibalism inM. sociabilisseems to represent an advantageous male foraging strategy, which is affected by prey availability and male feeding history, tuned by sex ratio and directed towards females of inferior quality.
A modified cohesive zone model for a high‐speed expanding crack
Authors: Wu J. , Ru C. Q.
Published: March 2014

The present work studies a self‐similar high‐speed expanding crack of mode‐I in a ductile material with a modified cohesive zone model. Compared with existing Dugdale models for moving crack, the new features of the present model are that the normal stress parallel to crack faces is included in the yielding condition in the cohesive zone and traction force in the cohesive zone can be non‐uniform. For a ductile material defined by von Mises criterion without hardening, the present model confirms that the normal stress parallel to crack face increases with increasing crack speed and can be even larger than the normal traction in the cohesive zone, which justifies the necessity of including the normal stress parallel to the crack faces in the yielding condition at high crack speed. In addition, strain hardening effect is examined based on a non‐uniform traction distribution in the cohesive zone.
Quantitative evaluation of the displacement distribution and stress intensity factor of fatigue cracks healed by a controlled high‐density electric current field
Authors: Hosoi A. , Yano T. , Morita Y. , Ju Y.
Published: March 2014

Fatigue cracks were healed by controlling a high‐density electric current. The changes in the displacement distribution around the crack tip and the stress intensity factor before and after crack healing were evaluated quantitatively with a digital image collation method. According to the results, it was determined that the cracks were closed by approximately 2 to 7 µm in this study. On the other hand, the stress intensity factor decreased or increased depending on the conditions of the crack and the current applied. The physical restriction between the crack surfaces, such as bridging, is important with respect to lowering the stress intensity factor after healing.
Crises, Liquidity Shocks, and Fire Sales at Commercial Banks
Authors: Boyson Nicole , Helwege Jean , Jindra Jan
Published: March 2014

If liquidity shortages cause financial crises, a lender of last resort can provide funds to banks facing potential fire sales. However, if funding problems primarily occur at banks with existing solvency problems, then government liquidity programs may not spur bank lending. We find that commercial bank funding does not typically dry up in a crisis, not even during the subprime crisis. Rather, weak banks are more likely to borrow less. Furthermore, banks rely more on deposits and newly issued equity than fire sales. When they do sell assets, they cherry pick assets in order to alleviate pressure from capital regulations.
Relationship between biomass energy and economic growth in transition countries: panel ARDL approach
Authors: Bildirici Melike E.
Published: March 2014

In this study, we have investigated the co‐integration and causality relationship between the biomass energy consumption and economic growth in the transition countries by the Panel Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method and Pedroni co‐integration analysis for 1990–2011. Analysed countries are gathered under two groups. For Groups 1 and 2, Pedroni panel co‐integration test and ARDL bound test results show that biomass energy consumption and economic growth are co‐integrated. Fully modified ordinary least squares results suggested that biomass energy consumption has positive effect on the economic growth.
Modelling the carbon cycle ofMiscanthusplantations: existing models and the potential for their improvement
Authors: Robertson Andy D. , Davies Christian A. , Smith Pete , Dondini Marta , McNamara Niall P.
Published: March 2014

The lignocellulosic perennial grassMiscanthushas received considerable attention as a potential bioenergy crop over the last 25 years, but few commercial plantations exist globally. This is partly due to the uncertainty associated with claims that land‐use change (LUC) toMiscanthuswill result in both commercially viable yields and net increases in carbon (C) storage. To simulate what the effects may be afterLUCtoMiscanthus, six process‐based models have been parameterized forMiscanthusand here we review how these models operate. This review provides an overview of the keyMiscanthussoil organic matter models and then highlights what measurers can do to accelerate model development. Each model (WIMOVAC, BioCro, Agro‐IBIS,DAYCENT,DNDCandECOSSE) is capable of simulating biomass production and soil C dynamics based on specific site characteristics. Understanding the design of these models is important in model selection as well as being important for field researchers to collect the most relevant data to improve model performance. The rapid increase in models parameterized forMiscanthusis promising, but refinements and improvements are still required to ensure that model predictions are reliable and can be applied to spatial scales relevant for policy. Specific improvements, needed to ensure the models are applicable for a range of environmental conditions, come under two categories: (i) increased data generation and (ii) development of frameworks and databases to allow simulations of ranging scales. Research into nonfood bioenergy crops such asMiscanthusis relatively recent and this review highlights that there are still a number of knowledge gaps regardingMiscanthusspecifically. For example, the low input requirements ofMiscanthusmake it particularly attractive as a bioenergy crop, but it is essential that we increase our understanding of the crop's nutrient remobilization and ability to host N‐fixing organisms to derive the most accurate simulations.
ALLA TURCA VERSUS THE ROMANTIC EAST: E.T.A. HOFFMANN AND ORIENTAL‐STYLE MUSIC*
Authors: Neilly Joanna
Published: March 2014

In the field of German Romantic Orientalism, E.T.A. Hoffmann represents a unique voice. He not only employs oriental imagery in his fiction, but also comments on the cultural production of the Orient within the German states. Following Friedrich Schlegel's assertion that the truly Romantic was to be sought in the East, Hoffmann questions the ways in which the Orient was constructed in German art, assessing its Romantic credentials. One example of this is found in his response to popular alla turca music. As the presentation of the Orient by composers such as Mozart and Gluck influenced literary depictions of the East, Hoffmann examines the means by which such music was produced and shows that attempts to mimic the Orient can be anti‐Romantic. His music reviews and his stories Ritter Gluck (1809) and Das Sanctus (1816) reveal an ambiguous response to alla turca music on the grounds that it did not always satisfy Romantic aesthetics. Looking East is therefore not always a Romantic undertaking. Hoffmann's critical reponse to alla turca is part of an aesthetic guide for modern artists wishing to profit from the Romantic potential of the Orient, and provides a new angle from which to consider Romantic Orientalism.
NARRATING THE REVOLUTIONARY SELF IN GERMAN POST‐TERRORIST LIFE‐WRITING: GENDER, IDENTITY AND HISTORICAL AGENCY
Authors: Bielby Clare
Published: March 2014

Over the last two decades, a number of former members of the ‘Rote Armee Fraktion’ and ‘Bewegung 2. Juni’ have published accounts of their past. This article turns to four examples from that corpus of German post‐terrorist life‐writing, focusing on gendered differences in the narrative (re)construction of the revolutionary self. Through a close reading of texts by two former women terrorists, Margrit Schiller (1999) and Inge Viett (1996), and those by two former male terrorists, Karl‐Heinz Dellwo (2007) and Till Meyer (1996), I explore the representation of historical agency, gendered subjectivity, and of the trajectory of becoming a revolutionary. In a context in which, as has been argued, there is very little discursive space to imagine the revolutionary woman, certainly at the time these women were operating, I address the degree to which Viett and Schiller can be seen to articulate a distinctly female ‘Kämpferin’ identity and in how far that might be seen as making a feminist intervention.
Pregnancy complications inHIV‐positive women: 11‐year data from theFrankfurtHIV Cohort
Authors: Reitter A , Stücker AU , Linde R , Königs C , Knecht G , Herrmann E , Schlößer R , Louwen F , Haberl A
Published: March 2014

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess pregnancy complications inHIV‐positive women and changes in the rates of such complications over 11 years in theFrankfurtHIV Cohort.

Methods

There were 330 pregnancies inHIV‐positive women between 1January 2002 and 31December 2012. The rate of pregnancy‐related complications, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), pre‐eclampsia and preterm delivery, the mode of delivery and obstetric history were analysed. Maternal and neonatal morbidity/mortality as well asHIVmother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) were evaluated.

Results

In our cohort,GDMwas diagnosed in 38 of 330 women (11.4%). Five women (1.5%) developed pre‐eclamspia or hypertension. In 16 women (4.8%), premature rupture of membranes (PROM) occurred and 46 women (13.7%) were admitted with preterm contractions. The preterm delivery rate was 36.5% (n = 122), and 26.9% of deliveries (n = 90) were between 34+0 and 36+6 weeks of gestation. Over the observation period, the percentage of women with undetectableHIVviral load (VL) increased significantly (P < 0.001), from 26.1% to 75%, leading to obstetric changes, including an increase in the rate of vaginal deliveries (P < 0.001), from no vaginal births to 50%. The preterm delivery rate decreased significantly (P < 0.001), from 79.2% to 8.3%. There were no significant changes in the rate ofGDM, pre‐eclampsia,PROMor preterm contractions.

Conclusions

In the 11 years of our analysis, there was a significant reduction in the rate of preterm deliveries and an increase in the vaginal delivery rate, possibly reflecting changes in treatment policies in the same period and the availability of more effective antiretroviral therapy options. The rates of complications such asGDM, pre‐eclampsia, preterm contractions,PROMand postnatal complications were stable over the 11 years, but were still increased compared with the general population.
Genetic structure offers insights into the evolution of migration and the taxonomy of the Barred Long‐tailed CuckooCercococcyx montanusspecies complex
Authors: Engel Joshua I. , Byamana Kizungu , Kahindo Charles , Bates John M. , Fjeldså Jon
Published: March 2014

Barred Long‐tailed Cuckoo (Cercococcyx montanus) currently comprises two morphologically distinct subspecies, one resident in the Albertine Rift (montanus) and one in east and southeast Africa (patulus) in which there are migrations that are poorly understood. Based on nuclear and mitochondrialDNAsequences, we find that two specimens collected in relatively low‐elevation forest in the Albertine Rift were correctly identified from plumage as the migratory subspecies whose closest known breeding area is > 800 km to the east. We discuss ways in which this unique migratory pattern could have evolved and argue that migration was gained and then lost in theC. montanuscomplex. Based on consistent morphological and genetic differences, we suggest that Barred Long‐tailed Cuckoo is best treated as two species, one of which (C. montanus) is a non‐migratory Albertine Rift endemic.
Methotrexate for treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents
Authors: Deo Maneka , Yung Anthony , Hill Sarah , Rademaker Marius
Published: March 2014

Background

Low‐dose methotrexate is becoming established as a second‐line treatment for atopic eczema in the adult population, but there has been a paucity of data to support its use for this indication in the pediatric population.

Methods

A retrospective review was undertaken of patients aged 18 years and under started on methotrexate between January 2005 and April 2010, at a hospital‐based dermatology department in New Zealand.

Results

Thirty‐one patients (17 females, mean age 10 years, range 3–18 years) were reviewed. Methotrexate was found to be effective or very effective in 75% and ineffective in 25%. The mean duration of treatment for those who responded to methotrexate was 14 months (range 2–38 months), 74% of patients were still on treatment at the time of last review. The most common adverse effect was minor nausea in four patients (14%) and non‐significant elevation of liver enzymes (four patients). No serious adverse effects were noted.

Conclusion

In our experience, methotrexate has a good safety/tolerability profile when used in low dose for the treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adolescents and appears to be effective. Formal comparative studies are needed.
Collagen remodeling and peripheral immune cell recruitment characterizes the cutaneous Langerhans cell histiocytosis microenvironment
Authors: Harikumar Parvathy E. , Selway Joanne L. , Chu Anthony , Langlands Kenneth
Published: March 2014

Background

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare and potentially fatal disorder of unknown etiology arising from the accumulation of epidermal Langerhans‐like cells in bone, skin, or other tissues. Tissue damage and morbidity results from lesional cytokine release, and we sought to investigate the LCH microenvironment using a combination of histological stains and immunohistochemistry.

Methods

CD1a immunoreactivity was used to identify lesional cells in archival paraffin‐embedded samples of cutaneous LCH. A combined Orcein and Giemsa stain identified immune cells in general (particularly granulocytes and mast cells) and extracellular matrix (particularly elastic fibers), while CD3 and CD68 staining identified T cells and macrophages, respectively. Collagen synthesis was investigated with Herovici staining, which discriminates newly synthesized from mature collagen, while cross‐polar microscopy of picrosirius‐stained sections identified changes in matrix organization.

Results

Immune cells were consistently identified at the periphery of cutaneous LCH lesions. We quantified an increased number of thickened and disorganized elastic fibers surrounding lesions and an absence of elastic fibers within lesions. Furthermore, lesions exhibited a decrease in mature collagen fibers and a loss of supporting collagen matrix within lesions and compromised collagen integrity in adjacent tissue.

Conclusions

Cutaneous LCH lesions are associated with the peripheral recruitment of a variety of immune cells and are consistently characterized by localized elastosis, collagen damage, and remodeling.
Treatment of facial lipoatrophy with polymethylmethacrylate among patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS): impact on the quality of life
Authors: Quintas Rodrigo C. S. , de França Emmanuel R. , de Petribú Kátia C. L. , Ximenes Ricardo A. A. , Quintas Lóren F. F. M. , Cavalcanti Ernando L. F. , Kitamura Marco A. P. , Magalhães Kássia A. A. , Paiva Késsia C. F. , Filho Demócrito B. Miranda
Published: March 2014

Background

The lipodystrophy syndrome is characterized by selective loss of subcutaneous fat on the face and extremities (lipoatrophy) and/or accumulation of fat around the neck, abdomen, and thorax (lipohypertrophy). The aim of this study has been to assess the impact of polymethylmethacrylate facial treatment on quality of life, self‐perceived facial image, and the severity of depressive symptoms in patients living with HIV/AIDS.

Methods

A non‐randomized before and after interventional study was developed. Fifty‐one patients underwent facial filling. The self‐perceived quality of life, facial image, and degree of depressive symptoms were measured by the Short‐Form 36 and HIV/AIDS – Targeted quality of life questionnaires, by a visual analogue scale and by the Beck depression inventory, respectively, before and three months after treatment.

Results

Six of the eight domains of Short‐Form 36 and eight of the nine dimensions of the HIV/AIDS – Targeted quality of life questionnaires, together with the visual analogue scale and by the Beck depression inventory scores, revealed a statistically significant improvement. The only adverse effects registered were edema and ecchymosis.

Conclusion

The treatment of facial lipoatrophy improved the self‐perceived quality of life and facial image as well as any depressive symptoms among patients with HIV/AIDS.
HLA DRB1* and DQB1* alleles are associated with disease severity in patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Svecova Danka , Parnicka Zuzana , Pastyrikova Lucia , Urbancek Slavomir , Luha Jan , Buc Milan
Published: March 2014

Background

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare autoimmune disease that involves the skin and mucosa. The etiology of PV is multifactorial and includes genetic, environmental, hormonal, and immunological factors.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles associated with PV and variations in the disease phenotype.

Methods

Forty‐four PV patients were diagnosed and analyzed at the Bullous Disorders Unit in cooperation with the Institute of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia. HLA class II alleles previously found to be associated with PV (DRB1*04:02, DRB1*04:04, DRB1*14:54, DRB1*14:04, DRB1*14:05, DQB1*03:02 and DQB1*05:03) were analyzed according to disease severity, PV type, and gender distribution.

Results

Correlations emerged between PV severity scores and HLA alleles. The DRB1*04:02 and DQB1*03:02 alleles were associated with severe PV (P = 0.001); DRB1*04:02 was associated with the mucocutaneous type (P = 0.024), and DQB1*03:02 was found more frequently in female than in male patients (P = 0.016). Analyses of the other alleles did not reveal significant associations with the clinical parameters evaluated.

Conclusions

The HLA DRB1* and DQB1* alleles influence susceptibility to PV and may contribute to PV severity and type. These results suggest that genetic background may contribute to disease outcome by affecting the disease course and efficacy of treatment because some of the alleles were found significantly more frequently in patients with severe disease.
Tungiasis in Haiti: a case series of 383 patients
Authors: Louis Shesly J. , Bronsnick Tara , Louis Frantz J. , Rao Babar
Published: March 2014

Background

Tungiasis is endemic in poverty‐stricken communities of South and Central America, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. This ectoparasitosis, caused by the female sand flea Tunga penetrans, is associated with considerable longterm morbidity in severely affected patients, including toe deformation and limited mobility. In Haiti, tungiasis is poorly documented but is known to occur. This study is the first formal investigation of tungiasis in Haiti.

Methods

A total of 383 patients in four regions (Belle Fontaine, Vallue, Savanette, Cerca Carvajal) were examined and interviewed to determine disease prevalence, demographics and clinical presentation, and tungiasis‐related behaviors.

Results

Prevalences of tungiasis ranged from 10.6 to 81.8% across the four regions. The overall prevalence of tungiasis in the patients examined was 31.1%. Of the affected patients, 63% were male and 37% were female, 37% were aged 0–10 years, and 100% reported pain and pruritus. Lesions occurred on the feet in 93.3% and on the hands in 22.7% of affected patients. The most common complications observed were chronic inflammation (54.2%) and hyperkeratosis (48.2%).

Conclusions

This study establishes tungiasis as endemic in four regions of Haiti and reveals disease characteristics similar to those reported previously, suggesting that there are common factors underlying this disease in various regions, which are likely to be poverty‐related. These findings emphasize the need to acknowledge tungiasis as a clinically relevant public health issue in order to decrease the frequency of tungiasis‐related morbidity in endemic areas.
Trophic skin ulceration in leprosy: evaluation of the efficacy of topical phenytoin sodium zinc oxide paste
Authors: Sehgal Virendra N. , Prasad Pullabatla V. S. , Kaviarasan Pichai K. , Rajan Deepak
Published: March 2014

Background

The trophic or chronic plantar ulcer of leprosy is one of the principle causes of disability and deformity in the disease and has been given due importance in the evolution of its classification. In view of the diversity of its clinical implications, the World Health Organization was obliged to bring this entity under its remit in order to develop uniform guidelines to be applied around the globe. Despite relentless endeavor, its management continues to represent a dilemma.

Objectives

The role of topical phenytoin sodium in wound healing led this group to evaluate its efficacy in the healing of trophic or chronic plantar ulcers. The success of the therapy was assessed according to the extent of regression in the size of the ulcer(s) following the formation of granulation tissue.

Methods

Forty patients released from leprosy control were recruited. A retrospective diagnosis was made in each case, and patients were grouped accordingly. Demographic data were recorded after the provision of informed consent. Bacterial cultures before and after treatment, and radiography were performed in each case. A phenytoin sodium fine powder zinc oxide paste dressing was applied every day for four weeks. Granulation was graded according to its appearance in order to evaluate the success of the topical therapy.

Results

Of the 40 patients, 26 (65.0%) borderline lepromatous leprosy patients had trophic ulcers, with the ball of the great toe being the most common site. Twelve (30.0%) patients had bone involvement. A total of 22 (55.0%) patients achieved complete resolution of the ulcer, and evidence of granulation formation was seen in 33 (82.5%) patients. The clearance of bacterial load after treatment was a significant finding. Zinc oxide paste per se was not effective, but its role as a vehicle was an asset.

Conclusions

Phenytoin sodium zinc oxide paste was found to be an efficacious, cost‐effective, and well‐tolerated alternative therapy. Patient compliance was good. Bone involvement contributed to poor wound healing, but the clearance of bacterial load was significant.
Expression of IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and IL‐17 in cutaneous schistosomal granuloma
Authors: Attia Sameh K. , Moftah Noha H. , Abdel‐Azim Eman S.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Cutaneous schistosomal granuloma (CSG) is a rare dermatological disease, the clinical and histopathological features of which are well defined. Although a panoramic picture of its immunopathogenesis in humans is not yet available, it is believed to be induced by T helper 1 (Th1), Th2, or Th17 cytokines in animals. This study evaluated the expression of different types of Th cytokines, including Th1 cytokine interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), Th2 cytokine interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), and Th17 cytokine IL‐17, in human CSG.

Methods

This study included nine patients with CSG. Dermatological examinations were conducted in all subjects. Skin biopsy specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E). Immunohistochemical examination was performed using three monoclonal anti‐human antibodies against IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and IL‐17 to evaluate Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines, respectively.

Results

The most common site of CSG manifestation was the paraumbilical area, which was affected in 66.7% of patients. All lesional skin biopsy specimens revealed multiple dermal granulomas surrounding schistosomal eggs. Positive immunoreactivity for IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and IL‐17 was present in dermal inflammatory infiltrate in 88.9, 11.1, and 88.9% of subjects, respectively. There were statistically significant negative correlations between the duration of disease and both IFN‐γ and IL‐17 (P ≤ 0.05), and a statistically significant positive correlation between IFN‐γ and IL‐17 (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusions

This study suggests that CSG is formed by the action of both Th1 (IFN‐γ) and Th17 (IL‐17) cytokines, which have been shown to be directed against the schistosomal egg to induce a cell‐mediated immune response.
Effect of the time of cold maceration on the evolution of phenolic compounds and colour of Syrah wines elaborated in warm climate
Authors: Cejudo‐Bastante María Jesús , Gordillo Belén , Hernanz Dolores , Escudero‐Gilete María Luisa , González‐Miret Maria Lourdes , Heredia Francisco J.
Published: March 2014

The effect of different cold maceration times on Syrah red wines from warm climate has been evaluated. Differential colorimetry and tristimulus colorimetry were applied to colour data at different points of the vinification stage. Virtually, all the phenolic compounds showed significantly higher content in cold macerated wines, even more when longer contact time was used. Long cold macerated (LCM) wines had the significantly (P < 0.05) highest chroma values (C*ab) and lowest of lightness (L*) and hue (hab). Unexpectedly, wines submitted to short‐time cold maceration (SCM) presented the lowest chroma values, even significantly inferior to that observed in traditional macerated (TM) wines. Moreover, colour changes (ΔE*ab) between TM and SCM were mainly quantitative (%Δ2L and %Δ2C), whereas they were also qualitative when compared TM with LCM (%Δ2C and %Δ2H). Cold maceration in warm climates characterised by common colour losses must be carefully employed because undesirable consequences on colour may occur.
Undocumented Migration to the United States and the Wages of Mexican Immigrants
Authors: Massey Douglas S. , Gentsch Kerstin
Published: March 2014

Prior work has documented the remarkable decline in the real wages of Mexican immigrant workers in the U.S. over the past several decades. Although some of this trend might be attributable to the changing characteristics of the migrants themselves, we argue that a more important change was the circumstances under within Mexican immigrants competed for jobs in the U.S. After 1986 a growing share of Mexican immigrants was undocumented, discrimination against them was mandated by federal law, and enforcement efforts rose in intensity. We combined data from the Mexican Migration Project (MMP) with independent estimates of the percentage undocumented among Mexicans living in the U.S. to estimate a series of regression models to test this hypothesis. Controlling for individual characteristics helps to explain the decline in the wages of immigrants, but does not eliminate the trend, which is only explained fully when the percentage undocumented is added to the model. A key date is 1986, confirmed by a Oaxaca—Blinder decomposition analysis, when undocumented hiring was criminalized and undocumented migration revived after IRCA's legalization programs ended. As the percentage undocumented rose to new heights in the face of employer sanctions, immigrant wages fell below what we would have observed under the former policy regime. Using newly available data from Warren and Warren (2013), we examined how variation in the percentage undocumented by state and year from 1990 through 2009 affected immigrant wages and confirmed a strong negative effect, but the addition of an interaction term to the model indicated that the negative effect was confined largely to undocumented migrants, whose wage penalty rose from 8 to 18 percent as the percentage undocumented rose from its observed minimum to maximum.