bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lenalidomide and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: González-Rodríguez Ana Pilar , Payer Angel R. , Acebes-Huerta Andrea , Huergo-Zapico Leticia , Villa-Alvarez Monica , Gonzalez-García Esther , Gonzalez Segundo
Published: September 2013

Lenalidomide is an oral immunomodulatory drug used in multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic syndrome and most recently it has shown to be effective in the treatment of various lymphoproliferative disorders such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The mechanism of action of lenalidomide varies depending on the pathology, and in the case of CLL, it appears to primarily act by restoring the damaged mechanisms of tumour immunosurveillance. This review discusses the potential mechanism of action and efficacy of lenalidomide, alone or in combination, in treatment of CLL and its toxic effects such as tumor lysis syndrome (TLS) and tumor flare reaction (TFR), that make its management different from other hematologic malignancies.
Effects of Free Surface and Heterogeneous Residual Internal Stress on Stress‐Driven Grain Growth in Nanocrystalline Metals
Authors: Wang F. , Zhao J. , Huang P. , Schneider A. S. , Lu T. J. , Xu K. W.
Published: September 2013

By reevaluating the experimental study of Zhang et al. (2005), here we demonstrate that the extent of grain growth, previously proposed to be solely driven by external stress, may have been significantly overestimated. A new physical mechanism, termed as free surface assisted stress‐driven grain growth (or self‐mechanical annealing), is proposed and discussed in detail. Representing the cooperative effect of free surface and heterogeneous residual internal stress, the proposed mechanism is considered more favorable than the traditional pure stress‐driven mechanism for interpreting the abnormal grain growth widely observed in deforming nanocrystalline metals at room temperature.
Building up Graphene‐Based Conductive Polymer Composite Thin Films Using Reduced Graphene Oxide Prepared by γ‐Ray Irradiation
Authors: Xie Siyuan , Zhang Bowu , Wang Chunlei , Wang Ziqiang , Li Linfan , Li Jingye
Published: September 2013

In this paper, reduced graphene oxide (RGO) was prepared by means of γ‐ray irradiation of graphene oxide (GO) in a water/ethanol mix solution, and we investigated the influence of reaction parameters, including ethanol concentration, absorbed dose, and dose rate during the irradiation. Due to the good dispersibility of the RGO in the mix solution, we built up flexible and conductive composite films based on the RGO and polymeric matrix through facile vacuum filtration and polymer coating. The electrical and optical properties of the obtained composite films were tested, showing good electrical conductivity with visible transmittance but strong ultraviolet absorbance.
In Vitro Biocompatibility of Electrospun Chitosan/Collagen Scaffold
Authors: Wang Peiwei , Liu Junli , Zhang Teng
Published: September 2013

Chitosan/collagen composite nanofibrous scaffold has been greatly concerned in recent years for its favorable physicochemical properties which mimic the native extracellular matrix (ECM) both morphologically and chemically. In a previous study, we had successfully fabricated nanofibrous chitosan/collagen composite by electrospinning. In the present study, we further investigate the biocompatibility of such chitosan/collagen composite nanofiber to be used as scaffolds in vascular tissue engineering. The porcine iliac artery endothelial cells (PIECs) were employed for morphogenesis, attachment, proliferation, and phenotypic studies. Four characteristic EC markers, including two types of cell adhesion molecules, one proliferation molecule (PCNA), and one function molecule (p53), were studied by semiquantitative RT‐PCR. Results showed that the chitosan/collagen composite nanofibrous scaffold could enhance the attachment, spreading, and proliferation of PIECs and preserve the EC phenotype. Our work provides profound proofs for the applicable potency of scaffolds made from chitosan/collagen composite nanofiber to be used in vascular tissue engineering.
A Novel Approach to Calculation of Reproducing Kernel on Infinite Interval and Applications to Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Niu Jing , Lin Yingzhen , Cui Minggen
Published: September 2013

A new analytical method for the computation of reproducing kernel is proposed and tested on some examples. The expression of reproducing kernel on infinite interval is obtained concisely in polynomial form for the first time. Furthermore, as a particular effective application of this method, we give an explicit representation formula for calculation of reproducing kernel in reproducing kernel space with boundary value conditions.
Functional Heterogeneity of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts from Human Colon Tumors Shows Specific Prognostic Gene Expression Signature
Authors: Herrera Mercedes , Islam Abul B.M.M.K. , Herrera Alberto , Martín Paloma , García Vanesa , Silva Javier , Garcia Jose M. , Salas Clara , Casal Ignacio , de Herreros Antonio García , Bonilla Félix , Peña Cristina
Published: September 2013

Purpose: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) actively participate in reciprocal communication with tumor cells and with other cell types in the microenvironment, contributing to a tumor-permissive neighborhood and promoting tumor progression. The aim of this study is the characterization of how CAFs from primary human colon tumors promote migration of colon cancer cells.

Experimental design: Primary CAF cultures from 15 primary human colon tumors were established. Their enrichment in CAFs was evaluated by the expression of various epithelial and myofibroblast specific markers. Coculture assays of primary CAFs with different colon tumor cells were performed to evaluate promigratory CAF-derived effects on cancer cells. Gene expression profiles were developed to further investigate CAF characteristics.

Results: Coculture assays showed significant differences in fibroblast-derived paracrine promigratory effects on cancer cells. Moreover, the association between CAFs' promigratory effects on cancer cells and classic fibroblast activation or stemness markers was observed. CAF gene expression profiles were analyzed by microarray to identify deregulated genes in different promigratory CAFs. The gene expression signature, derived from the most protumorogenic CAFs, was identified. Interestingly, this “CAF signature” showed a remarkable prognostic value for the clinical outcome of patients with colon cancer. Moreover, this prognostic value was validated in an independent series of 142 patients with colon cancer, by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), with a set of four genes included in the “CAF signature.”

Conclusions: In summary, these studies show for the first time the heterogeneity of primary CAFs' effect on colon cancer cell migration. A CAF gene expression signature able to classify patients with colon cancer into high- and low-risk groups was identified. Clin Cancer Res; 19(21); 5914–26. ©2013 AACR.
Targeting Fibroblast Growth Factor Pathways in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Corn Paul G. , Wang Fen , McKeehan Wallace L. , Navone Nora
Published: September 2013

Advanced prostate cancer carries a poor prognosis and novel therapies are needed. Research has focused on identifying mechanisms that promote angiogenesis and cellular proliferation during prostate cancer progression from the primary tumor to bone—the principal site of prostate cancer metastases. One candidate pathway is the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) axis. Aberrant expression of FGF ligands and FGF receptors leads to constitutive activation of multiple downstream pathways involved in prostate cancer progression including mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and phospholipase Cγ. The involvement of FGF pathways in multiple mechanisms relevant to prostate tumorigenesis provides a rationale for the therapeutic blockade of this pathway, and two small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors—dovitinib and nintedanib—are currently in phase II clinical development for advanced prostate cancer. Preliminary results from these trials suggest that FGF pathway inhibition represents a promising new strategy to treat castrate-resistant disease. Clin Cancer Res; 19(21); 5856–66. ©2013 AACR.
Brief Internet-Based Intervention Reduces Posttraumatic Stress and Prolonged Grief in Parents after the Loss of a Child during Pregnancy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kersting Anette , Dölemeyer Ruth , Steinig Jana , Walter Franziska , Kroker Kristin , Baust Katja , Wagner Birgit
Published: September 2013

Background: The loss of a child during pregnancy causes significant psychological distress for many women and their partners, and may lead to long-lasting psychiatric disorders. Internet-based interventions using exposure techniques and cognitive restructuring have proved effective for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and prolonged grief. This study compared the effects of an Internet-based intervention for parents after prenatal loss with a waiting list condition (WLC). Methods: The Impact of Event Scale - Revised assessed symptoms of PTSD; the Inventory of Complicated Grief and the Brief Symptom Inventory assessed depression, anxiety, and general mental health. The 228 participants (92% female) were randomly allocated to a treatment group (TG; n = 115) or a WLC group (n = 113). The TG received a 5-week cognitive behavioral intervention including (1) self-confrontation, (2) cognitive restructuring, and (3) social sharing. Results: The TG showed significantly reduced symptoms of posttraumatic stress, prolonged grief, depression, and anxiety relative to the WLC control group. Intention-to-treat analysis revealed treatment effects of between d = 0.84 and d = 1.02 for posttraumatic stress and prolonged grief from pre- to posttreatment time points. Further significant improvement in all symptoms of PTSD and prolonged grief was found from the posttreatment evaluation to the 12-month follow-up. The attrition rate of 14% was relatively low. Conclusions: The Internet-based intervention proved to be a feasible and cost-effective treatment, reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress, grief, depression, anxiety, and general mental health after pregnancy loss. Low-threshold e-health interventions should be further evaluated and implemented routinely to improve psychological support after pregnancy loss.
Sleepwalking, REM Sleep Behaviour Disorder and Overlap Parasomnia in Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Di Fabio Nadia , Poryazova Rositsa , Oberholzer Michael , Baumann Christian R. , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: September 2013

Background/Aims: In a questionnaire survey, we identified 36 (9%) of 417 Parkinson's disease (PD) patients with sleepwalking (SW); 72% of them also had a history of REM sleep behaviour disorder (RBD). We aimed to assess the clinical and polysomnographic characteristics of SW in PD and to compare them to patients with PD with and without a history of RBD. Methods: We performed video-polysomnography and detailed clinical examination in 30 PD patients from the above-mentioned survey: 10 patients with a history of SW, 10 patients with a history of RBD, and 10 patients with no history of either SW or RBD. Results: PD patients with SW had higher depression, anxiety and Hoehn & Yahr scores and lower activities of daily living scores than patients without a history of RBD but did not differ from patients with RBD. Patients with SW and RBD also had more often dyskinesia and hallucinations. By polysomnography, RBD was observed in 8 patients with SW and in all patients with a history of RBD. A total of 5 patients without a history of either SW or RBD had REM sleep without atonia without behavioural peculiarities. Conclusion: SW in PD is associated with depression, higher disease severity and functional disability. The simultaneous occurrence of SW and RBD (overlap parasomnia) in most patients suggests a common underlying disturbance of motor control during sleep in PD, with variable manifestations in different sleep stages.
5′-AMP–Activated Protein Kinase–Activating Transcription Factor 1 Cascade Modulates Human Monocyte–Derived Macrophages to Atheroprotective Functions in Response to Heme or Metformin
Authors: Wan Xinyi , Huo Yilin , Johns Michael , Piper Emma , Mason Justin C. , Carling David , Haskard Dorian O. , Boyle Joseph J.
Published: September 2013

Objective—

Intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH) is an important driver of the progression of atherosclerotic plaques. Recently, we characterized Mhem as a novel macrophage phenotype that limits the atherogenicity of IPH. Mhem are directed by activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1), which is activated by phosphorylation. A better understanding of the counteratherogenic ATF1–Mhem pathway may facilitate antiatherosclerotic therapies.

Approach and Results—

We tested the hypothesis that heme in pathologically relevant concentrations activates the ATF1–Mhem pathway via 5′-AMP–activated protein kinase (AMPK) in primary human monocyte–derived macrophages and mouse bone marrow macrophages. We found that heme (10 μmol/L) activates AMPK, and downstream ATF1-mediated coinduction of heme oxygenase and liver X receptor that characterize Mhem. Heme increased macrophage phospho-AMPK, phospho-ATF1, and its target genes, and these effects were inhibited by the AMPK antagonist dorsomorphin, or by AMPK-knockdown with small inhibitory ribonucleic acid. The AMPK-activating oral hypoglycemic agent metformin also induced and phosphorylated ATF1 at a clinically relevant concentration (10 μmol/L). Functional effects of heme and metformin were inhibited by AMPK-knockdown and included suppression of macrophage oxidative stress; increased cholesterol export; protection from foam-cell formation; and suppression of macrophage inflammatory activation (human leukocyte antigen type DR expression).

Conclusions—

Our data indicate that heme activates the ATF1 pathway in human macrophages via AMPK, and that a similar response occurs after treatment of cells with metformin. Our results suggest an in vitro mechanism that may explain the clinical evidence that metformin has vascular protective effects beyond its role in treating hyperglycemia.
Targeted Gene Sequencing Identifies Variants in the Protein C and Endothelial Protein C Receptor Genes in Patients With Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Wu Cynthia , Dwivedi Dhruva J. , Pepler Laura , Lysov Zakhar , Waye John , Julian Jim , Desch Karl , Ginsburg David , Weitz Jeffrey I. , Kearon Clive , Liaw Patricia C.
Published: September 2013

Objective—

The interaction of protein C (PC) with the endothelial PC receptor (EPCR) enhances activated PC generation. We performed targeted gene sequencing of the PC gene (
PROC
) and EPCR genes (
PROCR
) in patients with unprovoked venous thromboembolism (VTE) to determine whether mutations that impair PC–EPCR interactions are associated with an increased risk of VTE.

Approach and Results—

We sequenced exon 3 of
PROC
and exons 2 and 3 of
PROCR
(the exons that encode the protein–protein binding domains of PC and EPCR) in 653 patients with unprovoked VTE and in 627 healthy controls. Five single nucleotide variants, each in individual patients, were identified that result in abnormal PC (Arg9Cys, Val34Met, and Arg-1Cys) or abnormal EPCR proteins (Arg96Cys and Val170Leu). We did not detect any nonsynonymous coding variants in the controls. When the PC variants were expressed in human embryonic kidney 293 cells, all exhibited decreased synthesis, and 2 of the variants had reduced capacity for activated PC generation. When expressed on the surface of human embryonic kidney 293 cells, the EPCR variants showed reduced affinity for fluorescently labeled PC. In addition, the previously reported EPCR A3 haplotype, which promotes cellular shedding of EPCR, is over-represented in the patient group (
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

This is the first targeted DNA sequencing analysis of
PROC
and
PROCR
in a large group of patients with unprovoked VTE. Our data suggest that mutations that impair PC–EPCR interactions may be associated with an increased risk of VTE.
Inducible Overexpression of GLUT1 Prevents Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Attenuates Structural Remodeling in Pressure Overload but Does Not Prevent Left Ventricular Dysfunction
Authors: Pereira Renata O. , Wende Adam R. , Olsen Curtis , Soto Jamie , Rawlings Tenley , Zhu Yi , Anderson Steven M. , Dale Abel E.
Published: September 2013

Background

Increased glucose transporter 1 (
GLUT1
) expression and glucose utilization that accompany pressure overload‐induced hypertrophy (
POH
) are believed to be cardioprotective. Moreover, it has been shown that lifelong transgenic overexpression of
GLUT1
in the heart prevents cardiac dysfunction after aortic constriction. The relevance of this model to clinical practice is unclear because of the life‐long duration of increased glucose metabolism. Therefore, we sought to determine if a short‐term increase in
GLUT1
‐mediated myocardial glucose uptake would still confer cardioprotection if overexpression occurred at the onset of
POH
.

Methods and Results

Mice with cardiomyocyte‐specific inducible overexpression of a hemagglutinin (
HA
)‐tagged
GLUT1
transgene (G1HA) and their controls (Cont) were subjected to transverse aortic constriction (
TAC
) 2 days after transgene induction with doxycycline (
DOX
). Analysis was performed 4 weeks after
TAC
. Mitochondrial function, adenosine triphosphate (
ATP
) synthesis, and
mRNA
expression of oxidative phosphorylation (
OXPHOS
) genes were reduced in Cont mice, but were maintained in concert with increased glucose utilization in G1HA following
TAC
. Despite attenuated adverse remodeling in G1HA relative to control
TAC
mice, cardiac hypertrophy was exacerbated in these mice, and positive dP/dt (in vivo) and cardiac power (ex vivo) were equivalently decreased in Cont and G1HA
TAC
mice compared to shams, consistent with left ventricular dysfunction. O‐GlcNAcylation of Ca
2+
cycling proteins was increased in G1HA
TAC
hearts.

Conclusions

Short‐term cardiac specific induction of
GLUT1
at the onset of
POH
preserves mitochondrial function and attenuates pathological remodeling, but exacerbates the hypertrophic phenotype and is insufficient to prevent
POH
‐induced cardiac contractile dysfunction, possibly due to impaired calcium cycling.
Manifest Excess of Powers as a Ground for the Annulment of ICSID Awards
Authors: Timmer Laurens J.E.
Published: September 2013

This article provides academics and practitioners with a thorough overview and analysis of one of the most often invoked grounds in ICSID annulment procedures: ‘manifest excess of powers’. ICSID annulment committees have been criticised in the past for abandoning the distinction between appeal and annulment. In practice, recent annulment committees have shown considerable restraint when considering whether a tribunal has manifestly exceeded its powers. Although there have been two instances in recent years where the annulment committee annulled for what was effectively a (perceived) misapplication of the law by the tribunal, the latest ad hoc committees have not followed their example. Hopefully future committees will adopt an equally cautious approach.
Hermeneutic Reflections on the Specific Purpose of Umbrella Clauses
Authors: Gadelshina Elvira R.
Published: September 2013

Over the past several years, numerous scholarly studies put a spotlight on the destination of observance of commitment clauses as private investors increasingly sought to utilize the ‘umbrella mechanism’ in disputes arising out of breaches of contractual and similar non-treaty obligations by the host states. To date, the animated debate on the intended effect of pacta sunt servanda stipulations has failed to produce a unified approach to understanding the nature of such provisions. The pluralism of opinion on their practical implications continuously renders the claimant’s chances of success highly uncertain, even when a breach of the underlying commitment on the part of the host state is beyond any reasonable doubt. This article endeavors to identify the specific purpose of umbrella clauses by subjecting the existing views on the matter to closer scrutiny.
A review of Amblypalpus and Priscapalpus (Acari: Trombidiformes: Tenuipalpidae), including two new species of Amblypalpus from Iran
Authors: FARZAN SADEGH , ASADI MAHDIEH , UECKERMANN EDWARD A. , SEEMAN OWEN D. , BEARD JENNIFER J.
Published: September 2013

Two new species of Amblypalpus (Acari: Trombidiformes: Tenuipalpidae) are described from Iran: Amblypalpus iraniensis sp. nov., from Wild Almond, Amygdalus scoparia (Rosaceae), and Amblypalpus thymus sp. nov., from Common Thyme, Thymus vulgaris (Lamiaceae). The new species are classified tentatively in Amblypalpus. The species Priscapalpus thomissus Meyer, 1979 is transferred to Amblypalpus and the genus concept of Priscapalpus is narrowed and therefore redefined. Similarly, we present an expanded concept of Amblypalpus. A key to brevipalpine genera and Amblypalpus species is provided.
Evaluation of Satellite-Retrieved Extreme Precipitation over Europe using Gauge Observations
Authors: Lockhoff M. , Zolina O. , Simmer C. , Schulz J.
Published: September 2013

Climate change is expected to change precipitation characteristics and particularly the frequency and magnitude of precipitation extremes. Satellite observations form an important part of the observing system necessary to monitor both temporal and spatial patterns of precipitation variability and extremes. As satellite-based precipitation estimates are generally only indirect, however, their reliability has to be verified.

This study evaluates the ability of the satellite-based Global Precipitation Climatology Project One-Degree Daily (GPCP1DD) dataset to reliably reproduce precipitation variability and extremes over Europe compared to the European Daily High-resolution Observational Gridded Dataset (E-OBS). The results show that the two datasets agree reasonably well not only when looking at climatological statistics such as climatological mean, number of wet days (rain rates 1 mm), and mean intensity (i.e., mean over all wet days) but also with respect to their distributions. The results also reveal a pronounced seasonal cycle in the performance of GPCP1DD that is worse in winter and spring. Both deterministic and fuzzy verification methods are used to assess the ability of the GPCP1DD dataset to capture extremes. Fuzzy methods prove to be the better suited evaluation approach for such a highly variable parameter as precipitation because it compensates for slight spatial and temporal displacements. Whereas the deterministic diagnostics confirm previous findings on the deficiencies of satellite products, the “fuzzy” results show that at larger spatiotemporal scales (e.g., 3°/5 days) GPCP1DD has useful skill and is able to reliably represent the spatial and temporal variability of extremes.
Delayed Southern Hemisphere Climate Change Induced by Stratospheric Ozone Recovery, as Projected by the CMIP5 Models
Authors: Barnes Elizabeth A. , Barnes Nicholas W. , Polvani Lorenzo M.
Published: September 2013

Stratospheric ozone is expected to recover by the end of this century because of the regulation of ozone-depleting substances by the Montreal Protocol. Targeted modeling studies have suggested that the climate response to ozone recovery will greatly oppose the climate response to rising greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the extent of this cancellation remains unclear since only a few such studies are available. Here, a much larger set of simulations performed for phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project is analyzed, which includes ozone recovery. It is shown that the closing of the ozone hole will cause a delay in summertime [December–February (DJF)] Southern Hemisphere climate change between now and 2045. Specifically, it is found that the position of the jet stream, the width of the subtropical dry zones, the seasonality of surface temperatures, and sea ice concentrations all exhibit significantly reduced summertime trends over the first half of the twenty-first century as a consequence of ozone recovery. After 2045, forcing from GHG emissions begins to dominate the climate response. Finally, comparing the relative influences of future GHG emissions and historic ozone depletion, it is found that the simulated DJF tropospheric circulation changes between 1965 and 2005 (driven primarily by ozone depletion) are larger than the projected changes in any future scenario over the entire twenty-first century.
Generation and Separation of Mesoscale Eddies from Surface Ocean Fronts
Authors: Manucharyan Georgy E. , Timmermans Mary-Louise
Published: September 2013

This study is motivated by Arctic Ocean observations of sub–mixed layer eddies found at large distances from their assumed formation region of a surface ocean front. Eddy formation is explored through high-resolution numerical simulations of surface fronts, separating two mixed layers, with a range of configurations similar to those observed in the Arctic Ocean. This study finds that frontal instabilities lead to the development of self-propagating dipoles, which have the potential to propagate far from the front if interactions with other eddies are avoided. However, most dipoles are unbalanced, consisting of a dominating surface cyclone and a weaker anticyclone below, and thus propagate on curved trajectories with eventual recirculation back to the front. Their maximum separation distance from the front depends on the ratio of self-advecting velocities ϵ; balanced dipoles that have ϵ ≈ 1, and the ability to propagate far from the front. For dipoles generated numerically, this study estimates ϵ using analytical solutions of a 2½-layer quasigeostrophic model for Gaussian vortices. The distribution of the ratio ϵ for these dipoles is found to be skewed toward higher values (i.e., cyclones are dominant in dipoles). Sensitivity experiments suggest that shallow fronts that separate mixed layers of approximately equal depths favor the development of balanced dipoles that can self-propagate over long distances.
Time-Varying Biases in U.S. Total Cloud Cover Data
Authors: Free Melissa , Sun Bomin
Published: September 2013

This paper presents evidence of significant discontinuities in U.S. cloud cover data from the Integrated Surface Database (ISD) and its predecessor datasets. While long-term U.S. cloud records have some well-known homogeneity problems related to the introduction of the Automated Surface Observing System (ASOS) in the 1990s, the change to the international standard reporting format [aviation routine weather report (METAR)] in the United States in July 1996 introduces an additional inhomogeneity at many of the stations where humans still make or supplement cloud observations. This change is associated with an upward shift in total cloud of 0.1%–10%, statistically significant at 95 of 172 stations. The shift occurs at both National Weather Service and military weather stations, producing a mean increase in total cloud of 2%–3%. This suggests that the positive trends in U.S. cloud cover reported by other researchers for recent time periods may be exaggerated, a conclusion that is supported by comparisons with precipitation and diurnal temperature range data.

Additional discontinuities exist at other times in the frequency distributions of fractional cloud cover at the majority of stations, many of which may be explained by changes in the sources and types of data included in ISD. Some of these result in noticeable changes in monthly-mean total cloud. The current U.S. cloud cover database needs thorough homogeneity testing and adjustment before it can be used with confidence for trend assessment or satellite product validation.
An Objective Analysis of Tornado Risk in the United States
Authors: Coleman Timothy A. , Dixon P. Grady
Published: September 2013

In this paper, an objective analysis of spatial tornado risk in the United States is performed, using a somewhat different dataset than in some previous tornado climatologies. The focus is on significant tornadoes because their reporting frequency has remained fairly stable for several decades. Also, data before 1973 are excluded, since those tornadoes were rated after the fact and were often overrated. Tornado pathlength within the vicinity of a grid point is used to show tornado risk, as opposed to tornado days or the total number of reported tornadoes. The possibility that many tornadoes in the Great Plains were underrated due to the lack of damage indicators, causing a low bias in the number of significant tornadoes there, is mostly discounted through several analyses. The kernel density analysis of 1973–2011 significant tornadoes performed herein shows that the area of highest risk for tornadoes in the United States extends roughly from Oklahoma to Tennessee and northwestern Georgia, with the highest risk in the southeastern United States, from central Arkansas across most of Mississippi and northern Alabama.
Relationship Between Increased Serum Resistin Level and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Sinan Umit Yasar , Canbolat Ismail Polat , Baydar Onur , Oktay Veysel , Imre Gurkan , Kocas Cuneyt , Abaci Okay , Coskun Ugur , Bostan Cem , Kilickesmez Kadriye Orta , Yildiz Ahmet , Kaya Aysem , Gurmen Tevfik , Yigit Zerrin
Published: September 2013

Resistin, which is derived from the gene of RSTN, belongs to a family of cysteine-rich secretory proteins called resistin-like molecules (RELMs). Increased serum resistin levels are associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) and the risk of cardiovascular death. Patients (n = 214) with an initial diagnosis of stable angina pectoris, unstable angina pectoris, and myocardial infarction without ST-segment elevation and referred to catheter laboratory for coronary angiography were enrolled in the study. We aimed to investigate the relationship between increased serum resistin level and CAD. The severity of CAD was calculated by the Gensini scoring system. In conclusion, we established a significant correlation between serum resistin levels and CAD ( P = .010). Also, serum resistin levels correlated with the Gensini score that represents the severity of CAD angiographically ( P = .010).
“Il vento è sempre contrario”: Le lettere di Anna Maria Ortese a Elsa de’ Giorgi
Authors: Montoro María J Calvo
Published: September 2013

Le lettere di Anna Maria Ortese all’attrice e scrittrice Elsa de’ Giorgi (12 documenti in totale) mettono in evidenza aspetti essenziali della scrittura e della biografia ortesiane, nel periodo milanese degli anni 1950, che si riflettono in Poveri e semplici e, a distanza di anni, nel Cappello piumato. A questo proposito, sono particolarmente interessanti i riferimenti alla ristampa di Angelici dolori, al lavoro giornalistico per l’ Europeo o Il Corriere della Sera e al resoconto del viaggio poco fortunato a Londra, nonché alle conseguenze personali e professionali derivate da quello nell’Unione Sovietica. L’evolversi del rapporto tra le due donne, con Ortese che a poco a poco assume il ruolo psicologicamente dominante che all’inizio era della sua interlocutrice, mostra inoltre aspetti significativi della sempre problematica vicenda della scrittrice napoletana in lotta per la scrittura, ma contrassegnata dalla piena coscienza del proprio valore. Da queste lettere emergono infine interessanti riferimenti ad altri autori come Eduardo De Filippo, Pier Paolo Pasolini o Rafael Alberti e alle loro scelte di poetica.
Pathways to mental health care in Italy: Results from a multicenter study
Authors: Volpe Umberto , Fiorillo Andrea , Luciano Mario , Del Vecchio Valeria , Palumbo Claudia , Calò Salvatore , Piras Sara , Signorelli Maria , Filippo Dario , Piselli Massimiliano , De Fazio Pasquale , Gotelli Simona , Bardicchia Francesco , Cerveri Giancarlo , Ferrari Silvia , Mulè Alice , Ribolsi Michele , Sampogna Gaia , De Rosa Corrado , Sartorius Norman
Published: September 2013

Background and aims:

In Italy, the reform of the mental health system in 1978 should have drastically changed the provision of care and pathways of patients seeking to obtain it. The aim of this article is to examine the current pathways to psychiatric care in Italy.

Methods:

We used a method developed in the World Health Organization international collaborative studies to investigate pathways to care in 15 Italian mental health centers. We recruited 420 patients with a psychiatric illness and explored the care pathways they took to reach to psychiatric services and the delays from the onset of illness to reaching psychiatric care.

Results:

The majority of patients (33.8%) had direct access to mental health care, whereas the others arrived to a specialist in psychiatry through general hospitals (20.3%), general practitioners (33.0%) or private practitioners (9.8%). The main diagnosis for referral was neurotic disorder (36.6%), followed by affective disorder (35.4%) and psychotic disorder (11.5%). The delay from onset of illness to psychiatric care was greater for patients with psychotic disorders than for those with affective and neurotic disorders. The most frequently prescribed treatments were pharmacotherapy (56%), psychological support (8%), and psychotherapy (7.0%); 15% of the patients received no treatment.

Conclusions:

Our multicenter study shows that although general practitioners and hospital doctors are still the main referral point for mental health care, a greater proportion of patients are first seen in private settings or directly reach mental health centers, compared to previous surveys conducted in Italy. However, a stronger collaboration of psychiatrists with general practitioners and psychologists is still needed.
Theories of failure average stress criterion and point stress criterion in notched fiber-reinforced plastic
Authors: Tinô SRL , Fontes RS , de Aquino EMF
Published: September 2013

The present work aims to analyze a study on the mechanical response of fiber-reinforced plastics in the presence of geometric discontinuity, as a result of the uniaxial tensile test. The geometric discontinuity is characterized by the presence of a circular hole in the longitudinal section of the composite. In this study, two different types of configurations are tested: one reinforced with glass/E fibers and the other is a hybrid reinforced with glass/E and jute fibers, with and without a hole, aiming to provide a better agreement on mechanical properties, regarding the residual strength. The residual strength determined using normative rules is used in the point stress criterion and average stress criterion failure theories for the semiempirical calculation of distances ( d0 and a0) in the boundary of hole, area of failure stress. The results show the direct influence of the presence of geometric discontinuity and residual strength in all studied parameters since the direction of reinforcement in relation to application of the load is maintained regardless of hybridization.
Forensic identification using multiple lot numbers of an implanted device
Authors: Takeshita H , Nagai T , Sagi M , Chiba S , Kanno S , Takada M , Mukai T
Published: September 2013

We report a case in which identification of a deceased individual was established using multiple lot numbers printed on a body implantable device. Autopsy of an unknown woman revealed an intramedullary nail inserted within her right femur. The device manufacturer was identified from the configuration of the intramedullary nail, and the “use history” was traced from lot numbers printed on the device’s multiple parts. The deceased individual was thus identified as a woman who had attempted suicide by jumping from a height about a year previously and had been transported to a hospital and undergone surgery that included implantation of the intramedullary nail. The main factor contributing to the rapid identification was the manufacturer’s and distributor’s record of the use history (traceability) of the product, because of their accountability for purposes of quality control. A second contributing factor was multiple lot numbers, resulting in extremely low probability of the same combination of lot numbers being present in multiple individuals. This case confirmed the utility of multiple lot numbers of body implantable devices in forensic identification.
Patients’ responsibilities for their health
Authors: Laur Audrey
Published: September 2013

Our modern societies have always given special prominence to patients’ rights, but rarely acknowledged the existence of their responsibilities. However, rights have to be fully balanced with obligations. Patients are not only duty-bound by the traditional relationship they have with medical professionals, but also by their role in society through healthcare. Nowadays, as societies cannot afford irresponsible behaviour from the public in health care systems, more attention has been paid to patients’ duties. These do not just have moral consequences, but also legal ones. Can a patient be held responsible for a bad outcome in a medical treatment? Recent debates have shown that this question is a global problem and it therefore requires an international overview. Such a study will help to clarify patients’ duties and show how the legal system deals with them and what has been done so far to engage more patients in their own health.
Cut wrists, electrocution and subsequent drowning in a water drum: An unusual combination of methods in complex suicide
Authors: Karthik Krishna , Behera C , Gupta SK , Bhardwaj DN
Published: September 2013

A 25-year-old male was found dead in a water drum inside the bathroom of his house one morning. Autopsy revealed a fatal right wrist cut, superficial cuts on middle phalanx of left index finger and features of ante mortem drowning. Investigation revealed the victim was an alcoholic and was depressed due to financial problems. On the previous night, under the influence of alcohol, he first tried to commit suicide by cutting wrist with razor blades, but death was not immediate. He then attempted electrocuting himself by touching a live wire, inside the bathroom, which failed and finally he drowned in a water drum. The victim had left a message, written with his blood on the floor of the room, reflecting his suicidal intentions. In complex suicide, many bizarre methods are used, but this combination of methods is unusual and not found in available forensic literature.
Accidental strangulation by a hot belt: An occupational medico-legal case report
Authors: Arun M , Kumar RG Hemanth , Kumar GN Pramod , Chandrakanth HV , Nagesh KR , Menezes Ritesh G
Published: September 2013

Death due to strangulation is generally considered homicidal unless proved otherwise. Here a case of accidental strangulation by a faulty machine is presented and discussed where the deceased was strangled by a heated rubber belt of a rice mill machine. The ligature mark was an assortment of abrasion and dermo-epidermal burns. The term “thermal ligature strangulation” is proposed for such an occurrence.
Drivers under the influence of drugs of abuse: quantification of cocaine and impaired driving
Authors: Arroyo Amparo , Sánchez Marta , Barberia Eneko , Barbal Maria , Marrón M Teresa , Mora Agustí
Published: September 2013

In recent years, the interest in oral fluid as a biological matrix has significantly increased, particularly for detecting driving under the influence of drugs. In this study, the concentration of cocaine and its relationship with clinical symptoms in drivers suspected of driving under the influence of drugs was evaluated. A total of 154 samples of oral fluid, which tested positive for cocaine in previous immunoassay screening, Cozart Drug Detector System, were confirmed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method. In Catalonia, during 2007–2010, there were 1791 samples positive for cocaine among a total of 3468 samples taken from drivers who tested positive for any drug of abuse. The evaluation of clinical symptoms was through a questionnaire that was filled in by the police officers who collected the samples. The mean concentration of cocaine was 4.11 mg/l and median concentration was 0.38 mg/l (range 0.01–345.64 mg/l). Clinical impairment symptoms such as motor coordination, walking, speech, mood and state of pupils were not significant. The testing of oral fluids presents fewer ethical problems than blood or urine.
Public Administrators’ Use of Social Media Platforms
Authors: Knox Claire Connolly
Published: September 2013

Previous research incorporates Habermas’ theory of communicative action with implications of social media for public discourse, yet few studies consider the theory’s relevance and applicability to public administrators. This article addresses this weak link by focusing on the administration legitimacy dilemma. While social media can be useful to public administrators facilitating collaborative interactions with citizens, these platforms are not automatically suited to public participation in governance. Habermas’ theory offers a framework for understanding these possibilities and challenges, as well as adapting social media constructively to administrative practice.
Implementation of a Culturally Tailored Diabetes Intervention With Community Health Workers in American Samoa
Authors: DePue Judith D. , Rosen Rochelle K. , Seiden Andrew , Bereolos Nicole , Chima Marian L. , Goldstein Michael G. , Nu’usolia Ofeira , Tuitele John , McGarvey Stephen T.
Published: September 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to answer key implementation questions from our translation research with a primary care–based, nurse–community health worker (CHW) team intervention to support type 2 diabetes self-management.

Methods

Descriptive data are given on intervention delivery, CHW visit content, patient safety, and intervention costs, along with statistical analyses to examine participant characteristics of higher attendance at visits.

Results

In the intervention sample (n = 104), 74% (SD = 16%) of planned intervention visits occurred, guided by an algorithm-based protocol. Higher risk participants had a significantly lower dose of their weekly assigned visits (66%) than those at moderate (74%) and lower risk (90%). Twenty-eight percent of participants moved to a lower risk group over the year. Estimated intervention cost was $656 per person. Participants with less education were more likely to attend optimal percentage of visits.

Conclusions

A nurse-CHW team can deliver a culturally adapted diabetes self-management support intervention with excellent fidelity to the algorithm-based protocols. The team accommodated participants’ needs by meeting them whenever and wherever they could. This study provides an example of adaptation of an evidence-based model to the Samoan cultural context and its resource-poor setting.
Shifting Dependence
Authors: Gomillion Sarah , Murray Sandra L.
Published: September 2013

High and low self-esteem people typically have divergent responses to interpersonal risk. Highs draw closer to their partner, whereas lows self-protectively distance. However, these responses should be more likely when people are dependent on the rewards their partner offers. Two experiments tested the hypothesis that structural changes in the situation of interdependence lead high and low self-esteem people to reverse their typical responses to risk. When partners were instrumental to a current goal pursuit (and participants were more dependent on the rewards partners could offer), highs drew closer and lows distanced when risk was primed. However, when partners were not instrumental to an active goal (and participants were less dependent on the rewards partners could offer), these responses were reversed. Reducing one’s dependence on a partner to attain one’s personal goals appears to reduce highs’ incentive to connect, whereas it appears to increase lows’ incentive to connect.
Archetypes of Inter-firm Relations in the Implementation of Management Innovation: A Set-theoretic Study in China’s Biopharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Meuer Johannes
Published: September 2013

Innovation research increasingly focuses on understanding why and how firms implement new management practices, processes or structures. Emerging in the shadow of research on technological innovation, growing evidence points towards the inter-firm relation as an important locus of innovation. Yet although organizational theory suggests discrete alternative inter-firm coordination mechanisms, the literature on management innovation has thus far treated the inter-firm relation as one broad mode of organizing. This study takes a configurational perspective to identify archetypes of inter-firm relations leading to the implementation of management innovation. Using fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to analyse 56 firm partnerships in China’s biopharmaceutical industry, the empirical evidence identifies four such discrete inter-firm archetypes: organic coalitions, bureaucratic foundations, coalitions of intense interdependency and reciprocal foundations. The results suggest that the type of interdependency, rather than the coordination mechanisms governing inter-firm relations, leads to the implementation of management innovation.
Challenges in Building Effective and Competitive Government in Developing Countries
Authors: Ho Alfred Tat-Kei , Im Tobin
Published: September 2013

For the past two decades, many developing countries have begun to experiment with results-oriented reforms to make their governments more competitive. However, very few studies explore the question of the applicability and appropriateness of Western-oriented reforms in non-Western contexts. Based on theories of new institutionalism and institutional logics, this article examines some of the organizational, cultural, and political assumptions that are implicit in Western-styled reforms; how they may conflict with the institutional contexts of many developing countries; and how the conflicts may impact reform strategies and results. The article then recommends how future comparative research can focus more on inter-institutional layering problems. It also suggests a few hypotheses for future empirical works that are interested in exploring further the dynamics between institutional gap, implementation strategies, and leadership characteristics of results-oriented reforms.