bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homology of the enigmatic nuchal bone reveals novel reorganization of the shoulder girdle in the evolution of the turtle shell
Authors: Lyson Tyler R. , Bhullar Bhart‐Anjan S. , Bever Gabe S. , Joyce Walter G. , de Queiroz Kevin , Abzhanov Arhat , Gauthier Jacques A.
Published: October 2015

The turtle shell represents a unique modification of the ancestral tetrapod body plan. The homologies of its approximately 50 bones have been the subject of debate for more than 200 years. Although most of those homologies are now firmly established, the evolutionary origin of the dorsal median nuchal bone of the carapace remains unresolved. We propose a novel hypothesis in which the nuchal is derived from the paired, laterally positioned cleithra—dorsal elements of the ancestral tetrapod pectoral girdle that are otherwise retained among extant tetrapods only in frogs. This hypothesis is supported by origin of the nuchal as paired, mesenchymal condensations likely derived from the neural crest followed by a unique two‐stage pattern of ossification. Further support is drawn from the establishment of the nuchal as part of a highly conserved “muscle scaffold” wherein the cleithrum (and its evolutionary derivatives) serves as the origin of the Musculus trapezius. Identification of the nuchal as fused cleithra is congruent with its general spatial relationships to other elements of the shoulder girdle in the adult morphology of extant turtles, and it is further supported by patterns of connectivity and transformations documented by critical fossils from the turtle stem group. The cleithral derivation of the nuchal implies an anatomical reorganization of the pectoral girdle in which the dermal portion of the girdle was transformed from a continuous lateral‐ventral arc into separate dorsal and ventral components. This transformation involved the reduction and eventual loss of the scapular rami of the clavicles along with the dorsal and superficial migration of the cleithra, which then fused with one another and became incorporated into the carapace.
Predicting Sirex noctilio and S. nigricornis emergence using degree days
Authors: Haavik Laurel J. , Meeker James R. , Johnson Wood , Ryan Kathleen , Turgeon Jean J. , Allison Jeremy D.
Published: October 2015

The study of temporal interactions between native insects and alien invaders can be facilitated by the ability to forecast adult emergence. We used field‐collected adult emergence data of Sirex noctilio Fabricius (Hymenoptera: Siricidae), a woodwasp native of Eurasia that has recently invaded northeastern North America, and Sirex nigricornis Fabricius, a woodwasp native to North America, to develop and test cumulative degree‐day (CDD) models. Five data sets were collected each in Ontario, Canada (S. noctilio) and Louisiana, USA (S. nigricornis) over 4 years; three data sets were used to develop models and two were used to test them. Males and females of each species were modelled separately. After testing several potential temperatures, chosen thresholds for CDD were 0 °C lower threshold and 25 °C upper threshold for both Sirex spp. We used a three‐parameter Gompertz growth function to model Sirex spp. emergence against CDD. Models predicted 10% emergence of S. noctilio in Ontario after 1 239 and 1 280 CDD, for males (start date = 1 April; R2 = 0.91) and females (start date = 1 April; R2 = 0.86), respectively. Models predicted 10% emergence of S. nigricornis in Louisiana after 3 980 and 5 016 CDD, for males (start date = 1 May; R2 = 0.83) and females (start date = 1 March; R2 = 0.73), respectively. Cumulative degree‐day models predicted 10 and 90% emergence of woodwasp populations with less error (1–13%) than they did 50% emergence (5–27%). For both Sirex spp., male emergence began a few days before and concluded at about the same time as that of females. In southern Ontario, models predict that S. noctilio adults will be in flight between 1 015 and 2 430 CDD (1 April start date for CDD; from early‐July until mid‐September). In Louisiana, models predict that S. nigricornis adults will be in flight between 3 854 and 4 700 CDD (1 May start date for CDD; from early‐October until late‐November).
Patient‐reported experience of bleeding events in haemophilia
Authors: Flood Emuella , Pocoski Jennifer , Michaels Lisa A. , McCoy Anne , Beusterien Kathleen , Sasanè Rahul
Published: October 2015

Background

Patients with haemophilia experience bleeds because of absent or reduced clotting factor. The study objective was to understand the bleeding experience from the patients' perspective.

Materials and methods

Individuals with moderate/severe haemophilia participated in interviews and were asked to describe their most recent bleeding experience, including symptoms, signs of onset, impacts, when bleeding stopped and treatment effectiveness. Interview transcripts were analysed using a thematic analysis involving the coding of transcripts to identify key concepts and themes.

Results

Twenty males [10 adults, mean age = 41 (19–52); 10 adolescents, mean age = 13 (12–17)] with moderate (n = 5) or severe (n = 15) haemophilia participated. Symptoms signalling bleed onset included pain, swelling, stiffness, tingling/numbness and/or warmth. Participants reported feeling anger and frustration due to the unpredictable nature, pain and inconvenience of the episode. Adults sometimes reported delaying treatment due to inconvenience or cost; adolescents generally treated right away. Reported bleed severity was influenced by pain level, speed of symptom progression, location, continued use of the affected area, recurrence in same location of recent bleed and treatment delay. Participants reported that it was ‘easy' to know when the bleed had stopped. Participants reported that symptoms might linger for days before they returned back to ‘normal'.

Conclusions

This qualitative study details the substantial impact of an acute bleed from the patient perspective. Given that treatment was reported to be delayed in part due to inconvenience, more convenient treatment options could help reduce delays in treating bleeds and thereby minimise bleed‐related impacts. Clinical studies in haemophilia should include validated patient‐reported measurements of acute symptoms and bleed severity to comprehensively assess the bleeding event.
Columbanus in Europe: the evidence from the Epistulae
Authors: Leso Tommaso
Published: October 2015

The continental career of Columbanus has long attracted the attention of scholars because of his achievement as a writer, monastic founder and reformer, and political actor. His Epistulae are one of the most important pieces of evidence in understanding his attitudes and purposes during his twenty‐year sojourn on the Continent, and they emphasize the importance of his ecclesiastical and secular relationships. However, the Epistulae have seldom been analysed independently and together, as their study has often been focused on single letters or specific aspects of the collection. This paper looks at the Epistulae in a more general way, to point out what they tell us about Columbanus's theological and ecclesiastical positions, and the connections he established on the Continent.
Instructional Topics in Educational Measurement (ITEMS) Module: Using Automated Processes to Generate Test Items
Authors: Gierl Mark J. , Lai Hollis
Published: October 2015

Changes to the design and development of our educational assessments are resulting in the unprecedented demand for a large and continuous supply of content‐specific test items. One way to address this growing demand is with automatic item generation (AIG). AIG is the process of using item models to generate test items with the aid of computer technology. The purpose of this module is to describe and illustrate a template‐based method for generating test items. We outline a three‐step approach where test development specialists first create an item model. An item model is like a mould or rendering that highlights the features in an assessment task that must be manipulated to produce new items. Next, the content used for item generation is identified and structured. Finally, features in the item model are systematically manipulated with computer‐based algorithms to generate new items. Using this template‐based approach, hundreds or even thousands of new items can be generated with a single item model.
Rehabilitation of former Snowy Scheme sites in Kosciuszko National Park
Authors: MacPhee Elizabeth , Wilks Gabriel
Published: October 2015

Ten years of restoration work at 200 sites within Kosciuszko National Park – sites damaged during the construction of Australia's most iconic hydroelectric scheme – is showing substantial progress and is contributing to the protection of the park's internationally significant ecosystems.
Beyond ‘Don't Be Evil’: The European Union GSP+ Trade Preference Scheme and the Incentivisation of the Sri Lankan Garment Industry to Foster Human Rights
Authors: Yap James
Published: October 2015

Orthodox discourse on business and human rights tends to conceive of the human rights responsibility of corporations in terms of minimising the negative human rights impacts of their own activities, as opposed to exerting a net positive effect on human rights. On 15 August 2010, however, Sri Lanka's access to the EU's Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)+ trade incentives was withdrawn for reasons relating to that country's human rights record, creating an actual positive economic incentive for Sri Lankan businesses to actively engage the government on its human rights record. In this context, the author explores the potential for the Sri Lankan garment industry, which is highly dependent on exports to the EU, to effect positive human rights change in Sri Lanka.
Granting the Right to Vote for the European Parliament to Resident Third‐Country Nationals: Civic Citizenship Revisited
Authors: Schrauwen Annette
Published: October 2015

The EU grants rights to third‐country nationals (TCNs) and strives to approximate their rights to those of Union citizens. Up to now, the approximation has extended to social and economic matters. This article investigates whether political rights, notably voting rights for the European Parliament (EP), should also be approximated. To this end, the analysis applies Dahl's democratic principles of ‘coercion’ and ‘all affected interests’ as well as Bauböck's principle of ‘stakeholding’ to the position of TCNs in the EU. Against that background, it explores the relevance of arguments for and against granting TCNs the right to vote in European elections and submits that voting rights should be granted to long‐term resident TCNs. The author then proposes including TCN voting rights in the legal framework for EP elections and concludes by suggesting the use of the concept of civic citizenship to express political approximation of TCNs to EU citizens.
Free Movement of Goods and Property Law
Authors: Akkermans Bram , Ramaekers Eveline
Published: October 2015

Although usually considered a national competence, there is an effect of internal market law on property law. When a property right is validly created in one Member State and the object on which it rests is moved to another Member State, an internal market dimension arises. Such has been the case in the ECJ's Krantz decision 25 years ago, dealing with the question on whether the rules allowing a seizure of goods owned by someone else in another Member State and leading to a potential loss of right is in conformity with EU law. More than 25 years have passed and our thinking about the internal market as well as the free movement case‐law has changed significantly. A re‐examination of this decision leads to a different conclusion: the refusal to recognise property rights validly created in another Member State violates the free movement of goods under Article 34 TFEU.
Juxtaposition between host population structures: implications for disease transmission in a sympatric cervid community
Authors: Vander Wal Eric , Edye Iain , Paquet Paul C. , Coltman David W. , Bayne Erin , Brook Ryan K. , Andrés José A.
Published: October 2015

Sympatric populations of phylogenetically related species are often vulnerable to similar communicable diseases. Although some host populations may exhibit spatial structure, other hosts within the community may have unstructured populations. Thus, individuals from unstructured host populations may act as interspecific vectors among discrete subpopulations of sympatric alternate hosts. We used a cervid‐bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) system to investigate the landscape‐scale potential for bovine tuberculosis transmission within a nonmigratory white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and elk (Cervus canadensis) community. Using landscape population genetics, we tested for genetic and spatial structure in white‐tailed deer. We then compared these findings with the sympatric elk population that is structured and which has structure that correlates spatially and genetically to physiognomic landscape features. Despite genetic structure that indicates the white‐tailed deer population forms three sympatric clusters, the absence of spatial structure suggested that intraspecific pathogen transmission is not likely to be limited by physiognomic landscape features. The potential for intraspecific transmission among subpopulations of elk is low due to spatial population structure. Given that white‐tailed deer are abundant, widely distributed, and exhibit a distinct lack of spatial population structure, white‐tailed deer likely pose a greater threat as bovine tuberculosis vectors among elk subpopulations than elk.
Evaluation of ataxia in the horse
Authors: Alcott C. J.
Published: October 2015

Ataxia in the horse is a common clinical presentation requiring a methodical approach for accurate neurolocalisation. Observed neurological deficiencies should support a localised single aetiology whenever possible. Relevant differential diagnoses should be considered based on the case history and localisation. Diagnostic strategies can then be applied relative to disease risk.
Parental Incarceration as a Risk Factor for Children in Homeless Families
Authors: Casey Erin C. , Shlafer Rebecca J. , Masten Ann S.
Published: October 2015

The current study aimed to describe the prevalence of children of incarcerated parents (COIP) in a sample of homeless/highly mobile children, examine the relationship between parental incarceration and other risk factors, and investigate the effect of parental incarceration on child academic and mental health outcomes. The authors compared COIP (n = 45) to children whose parents were never incarcerated (n = 93) within a sample of 138, 4‐ to 7‐year‐old ethnically diverse children residing in emergency homeless shelters. Children's caregivers provided information about children's history of parental incarceration and other family experiences. Children's teachers reported academic and mental health outcomes in the subsequent school year. Compared to children with no history of parental incarceration, COIP experienced more negative life events. Regression models revealed that a history of parental incarceration was a significant predictor of teacher‐reported internalizing problems. These results have implications for the identification and treatment of the highest risk homeless/highly mobile children.
Design of composite inhibitors targeting glutamate carboxypeptidase II: the importance of effector functionalities
Authors: Novakova Zora , Cerny Jiri , Choy Cindy J. , Nedrow Jessie R. , Choi Joeseph K. , Lubkowski Jacek , Berkman Clifford E. , Barinka Cyril
Published: October 2015

Inhibitors targeting human glutamate carboxypeptidase II (GCPII) typically consist of a P1′ glutamate‐derived binding module, which warrants the high affinity and specificity, linked to an effector function that is positioned within the entrance funnel of the enzyme. Here we present a comprehensive structural and computational study aimed at dissecting the importance of the effector function for GCPII binding and affinity. To this end we determined crystal structures of human GCPII in complex with a series of phosphoramidate‐based inhibitors harboring effector functions of diverse physicochemical characteristics. Our data show that higher binding affinities of phosphoramidates, compared to matching phosphonates, are linked to the presence of additional hydrogen bonds between Glu424 and Gly518 of the enzyme and the amide group of the phosphoramidate. While the positioning of the P1′ glutamate‐derived module within the S1′ pocket of GCPII is invariant, interaction interfaces between effector functions and residues lining the entrance funnel are highly varied, with the positively charged arginine patch defined by Arg463, Arg534 and Arg536 being the only ‘hot‐spot’ common to several studied complexes. This variability stems in part from the fact that the effector/GCPII interfaces generally encompass isolated areas of nonpolar residues within the entrance funnel and resulting van der Waals contacts lack the directionality typical for hydrogen bonding interactions. The presented data unravel a complexity of binding modes of inhibitors within non‐prime site(s) of GCPII and can be exploited for the design of novel GCPII‐specific compounds.

PDB ID codes

Atomic coordinates of the present structures together with the experimental structure factor amplitudes were deposited at the RCSB Protein Data Bank under accession codes 4P44 (complex with JRB‐4‐81), 4P45 (complex with JRB‐4‐73), 4P4B (complex with CTT54), 4P4D (complex with MP1C), 4P4E (complex with MP1D), 4P4F (complex with NC‐2‐40), 4P4I (complex with T33) and 4P4J (complex with T33D).
Do Firms Use M&A Business to Pay for Analyst Coverage?
Authors: Sibilkov Valeriy , Straska Miroslava , Waller H. Gregory
Published: October 2015

We find that acquirers in merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions are more likely to hire as advisors investment banks that provided analyst coverage for the acquirer prior to the transaction. We also find that compared to a matched control group of banks, the advisor banks are less likely to terminate and more likely to initiate analyst coverage of the acquirer after the transaction. Finally, the advisor banks that initiate coverage after the transaction collect higher fees. These findings suggest that firms value analyst coverage and use M&A advisor appointments and advisor fees to compensate for it.
Identity and Language Learning in Study Abroad
Authors: Kinginger Celeste
Published: October 2015

Identity, and related conflict, can influence both qualities of language learning experiences in study abroad settings and learners' choices of language to appropriate or reject. The article offers an overview of research examining the role of identity in student sojourns abroad. This research includes (1) holistic, qualitative studies of the ways in which identities shape language learning opportunities, and (2) studies examining the development of specific, identity‐related pragmatic abilities. After defining identity and study abroad, the researcher organizes this article in terms of salient demographic categories represented in the literature: nationality/“foreigner” status, gender, linguistic inheritance, age status, and ethnicity. Where possible, examples of both holistic and pragmatics‐oriented research are included for each category. The conclusion suggests implications for language education and the design of study abroad programs along with some avenues toward greater ecological validity in research of both kinds.
Questioning the Text: Advancing Literary Reading in the Second Language Through Web‐Based Strategy Training
Authors: Urlaub Per
Published: October 2015

This study assessed language learners' perceptions of an instructional approach to literary reading in the second language. The approach under investigation is based on a Web tutorial that teaches questioning strategies. Seventy‐eight German students enrolled at a state university in the United States participated in the study. Questionnaire data suggest that most of the learners perceived the approach positively in regard to its impact in facilitating the development of literary reading competencies in the second language. Students with positive perceptions about the Web tutorial were more likely to report a positive affective response to the literary texts and a higher motivation to continue the study of German beyond the university's foreign language requirement.
Going Mobile: Language Learning With an iPod Touch in Intermediate French and German Classes
Authors: Ducate Lara , Lomicka Lara
Published: October 2015

Mobile devices are becoming more and more pervasive in today's world for both personal use and educational purposes. Specific to the field of languages, mobile‐assisted language learning, derived from m‐learning and computer‐assisted language learning (CALL), differs from CALL in that it makes use of a personal portable device to enhance learning and give it the “anytime, anyplace” feature. Our study focused on both the learner and the mobile tool. We specifically investigated how students use mobile devices, specifically the iPod Touch, while noting differences in both personal and academic use. Using ecological constructivism as a theoretical framework, we examined the affordances of the mobile devices that encourage interaction with the target language and culture and explored a range of tasks using a mobile device.
Evaluation of a Spatial Relationship by the Concept of Intrinsic Spatial Distance
Authors: Leung Yee , Meng Deyu , Xu Zongben
Published: October 2015

We propose the concept of intrinsic spatial distance (ISD) for the study of a spatial relationship between any two points in space.ISDis a distance measure that takes into account the separation of two points with respect to their physical and attribute closeness. We construct an algorithm to implement this concept as anISDmeasurement. Based on theISDconcept, two points in space are related through a transitional path linking one to the other. As anISDmeasurement decreases, the spatial relationship between two points becomes increasingly stronger. We argue theoretically and demonstrate empirically that theISDconcept is not predisposed in favor of the first law of geography, but directly considers variance of nearness in physical distance and attribute distance to derive the extent to which two points are spatially associated. Specifically, in single attribute cases, the information uncovered by anISDmeasurement is more elaborate than that revealed byMoran'sI, localMoran'sI, and a semivariogram, giving a meticulous account of relatedness in both local and global contexts. TheISDconcept is also sufficiently general to be used to study multiple attributes of relationships.

Proponemos el concepto de distancia espacial intrínseca (intrinsic spatial distance‐ISD) para el estudio de la relación espacial entre dos puntos en el espacio. La ISD es una medición de distancia que tiene en cuenta la separación de dos puntos con respecto a su cercanía física y de atributo. Construimos un algoritmo para aplicar este concepto y crear una medición ISD. De acuerdo con en el concepto ISD, dos puntos en el espacio están relacionadas a través de un camino de transición que los vincula uno al otro. A medida que la medición ISD disminuye, la relación espacial entre dos puntos se refuerza. Argumentamos teóricamente y demostramos empíricamente que el concepto ISD no está predispuesto a favor de la primera ley de la geografía (de Tobler), pero considera directamente la varianza de la cercanía de la distancia física y la distancia del valor del atributo para derivar una medición que cuantifica el grado en el que dos puntos están asociados espacialmente. En concreto, en los casos de atributos individuales, la información revelada por una medición ISD es más sofisticada que la que proporcionada por el índice de Moran, el índice de Moran local, y el semivariograma, pues da cuanta minuciosa de la relación espacial y de atributo en contextos locales y globales. El concepto de ISD también es lo suficientemente general para ser usado en el estudio de relaciones entre múltiples atributos.

本文提出了内蕴空间距离(ISD)来研究空间中任意两点之间的空间关系。ISD是考虑空间上分离的两点各自物理和属性接近度的一种距离度量。通过构造一个算法将该概念转变为ISD可度量方式。基于ISD概念，空间上的两点通过连接两者迁移路径相关联。当ISD度量减小时，两点之间空间关系变得越来越强。理论论证和实例演示表明ISD概念并不倾向于符合地理学第一定律，但直接考虑两点间物理距离和属性距离临近性的变化可以推导两点在空间上的联系程度。特别是在单一属性案例中，相比于Moran’s I,局部Moran’s I和半方差图，ISD度量揭示了全局与局部环境中详尽的空间相关信息。同时，ISD概念在研究多属性的空间关系中也是足够通用的。
Cultural–Historical Geographies of the Archive: Fragments, Objects and Ghosts
Authors: Mills Sarah
Published: October 2015

This article reviews the increasingly diverse ways in which geographers are engaging with archives. Although traditionally associated with historical geography, cultural–historical geographers have recently ‘animated’ the archive and its collections of fragments, objects and ghosts. Through this article, I provide an overview of the central characteristics of work in this field, as well as considering the discipline's wider relationship with archival material. Overall, I reflect on the key challenges for geographers in animating and ‘bringing to life’ the archive – and by extension – the past.
Informal Waste Management in Africa: Perspectives and Lessons from Nigerian Garbage Geographies
Authors: Nzeadibe Thaddeus Chidi
Published: October 2015

Informal waste management (IWM) has over the years been a contentious issue in urban development policy in Africa. Surprisingly, knowledge contributions on the subject have remained somewhat poorly assessed by urban development researchers throughout the continent. This paper reviews developments in IWM in Africa, drawing from lessons learned over a decade of research and activism in Nigerian cities. The aim is to evaluate the scholarship impact of Nigerian informal garbage geographies and to accentuate emerging innovations in IWM research and activism in the country. The paper first contextualizes IWM in Africa, zeroing in on Egypt and South Africa, two countries with widely acknowledged systems. Next, it draws attention to some unique developments in the Nigerian system while also linking the Nigerian case study to broader literatures on Africa. On the basis of a critical sub‐sectoral review of African literature and a comparative analysis of research and activism in Nigeria, the paper argues that research on Nigerian IWM has seemingly enjoyed a modicum of international acceptability and recognition as evidenced by the involvement of reputable Afro‐oriented institutions and associations and the high quality of the resultant publications. The paper avers that in the absence of sustainable solutions from the formal sector, IWM appears to have carved a niche through innovations and inserted itself into the solid waste governance and development paradigm in many Nigerian cities. Emerging innovations in research and activism in Nigerian IWM are examined while their public policy relevance in Africa is highlighted.
The Public Response to Hazardous Weather Events: 25 Years of Research
Authors: Sherman‐Morris Kathleen
Published: October 2015

Recent disasters with high numbers of fatalities such as Hurricane Katrina or the 2011 southeastern tornado outbreak demonstrate the need to understand the public's response in extreme weather events. Much of what we know about how an individual responds to a weather hazard comes from case study research on behaviors and perceptions following single events. Because many of the actions are context specific, it is important to periodically review these case studies as a group to identify any trends that cut across hazards or locations. This paper examines research on individual‐level response to weather hazards from 1988 to 2012 and identifies similarities among the events. In conducting the review, the author also identified those areas in the response to hazardous weather events that are least frequently studied, including response to extreme heat and winter storms and to a lesser extent the response to flood events in the USA. Subjects covered in many of the papers included how one becomes aware of the hazard, how one responds, and what factors influence the response. Each of these subjects is discussed for each type of event, followed by a summary of the generalizations that may be made from these case studies.
Functional Independence and Difficulty Scale: Instrument development and validity evaluation
Authors: Saito Takashi , Izawa Kazuhiro P , Omori Yutaka , Watanabe Shuichiro
Published: October 2015

Aims

To validate the Functional Independence and Difficulty Scale, a new instrument that assesses both independence and difficulty in carrying out basic activities of daily living.

Methods

First, we developed an item list for our construct through a literature review. Second, an expert panel evaluated the item list using the modified Delphi method. Third, to evaluate psychometric properties, a random sample of 593 community‐dwelling older adults aged ≥ 65 years from Shiki City, Japan, was surveyed by mail.

Results

We developed an instrument comprising 14 items: getting up from bed, standing up from a chair, standing up from the floor, dressing, putting on pants, eating, cleaning after toileting, washing, brushing teeth, opening a PET bottle, cutting toenails, walking inside, walking outside and going up or down four to six steps. Function scores for basic activities of daily living ranged from 14–42, with higher scores representing better function. Internal consistency was acceptable (Cronbach's alpha = 0.92). Spearman's partial correlation coefficients controlled for sex and age between the new assessment tool, and the Katz Index and Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence were 0.81 (P < 0.01) and 0.63 (P < 0.01), respectively.

Conclusions

This new tool for assessment of the basic activities of daily living showed good internal consistency and validity. This assessment tool might be applicable in research and clinical practice to evaluate the basic activities of daily living of community‐dwelling elderly Japanese people. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 1127–1137.
The Usual Treatment of Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias
Authors: Pareja Juan A. , Álvarez Mónica
Published: October 2015

Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias include cluster headache, paroxysmal hemicrania, and short‐lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection, tearing, and rhinorrhea (SUNCT). Conventional pharmacological therapy can be successful in the majority of trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias patients.

Most cluster headache attacks respond to 100% oxygen inhalation, or 6 mg subcutaneous sumatriptan. Nasal spray of sumatriptan (20 mg) or zolmitriptan (5 mg) are recommended as second choice. The bouts can be brought under control by a short course of corticosteroids (oral prednisone: 60‐100 mg/day, or intravenous methylprednisolone: 250‐500 mg/day, for 5 days, followed by tapering off the dosage), or by long‐term prophylaxis with verapamil (at least 240 mg/day). Alternative long‐term preventive medications include lithium carbonate (800‐1600 mg/day), methylergonovine (0.4‐1.2 mg/day), and topiramate (100‐200 mg/day).

As a rule, paroxysmal hemicrania responds to preventive treatment with indomethacin (75‐150 mg/day).

A short course of intravenous lidocaine (1‐4 mg/kg/hour) can reduce the flow of attacks during exacerbations of SUNCT. Lamotrigine (100‐300 mg/day) is the preventive drug of choice for SUNCT. Gabapentin (800‐2700 mg/day), topiramate (50‐300 mg/day), and carbamazepine (200‐1600 mg/day) may be of help.
Should We Teach That the Cause of the Black Death Was Bubonic Plague?
Authors: Pobst Phyllis
Published: October 2015

For most of the 20th century, historians accepted bubonic plague, Yersinia pestis, as the cause of the 14th‐century Black Death, although a wealth of primary sources seems to conflict with that diagnosis. Scientists focused on Y. pestis have been less certain than historians, arguing over their findings and how these might apply to the 14th century. Historians who believe the diagnosis was premature point to the speed with which the disease travelled, and killed; its symptoms, and its extraordinary morbidity and mortality rates; the shortage of evidence for rats or fleas; and the seasons and climates in which the disease thrived; and they question whether every inconvenient bit of medieval evidence can be covered by later hypothetical mutations. Yet, guided by textbooks, and by popular media that distort the work of scientists, teachers often omit medieval evidence that doesn't fit Yersinia. Uncertainty over the cause of the Black Death offers historians a chance to show how historical knowledge is generated, by realistic use of primary sources in dialogue with other scholarly disciplines.
Reclaiming the Nation: Polish Schooling in Exile During the Second World War
Authors: Gross Magdalena H.
Published: October 2015

In the autumn of 1939, Poland was invaded and divided in half by the Third Reich and the Soviet Union. Nazi Germany took over western Poland, while the U.S.S.R. took over the southeast. The Soviet invasion of eastern Poland on September 17, 1939, pursuant to provisions of the secret protocol of the Ribbentrop-Molotov Pact, came as a complete surprise to Poland's thirteen million residents and to diplomats around the world. In the months that followed, the Soviets imposed a complex administrative system in the region, with the goal of “Sovietizing” conquered territories. The dismantling of local religious institutions and the creation of Soviet schooling for millions of Polish, Ukrainian, Jewish, and Belorussian children were all part of this program. Additionally, starting in February 1940, the Soviet authorities carried out four punitive waves of deportation of some 320,000 Polish citizens (men, women, and children) into the interior of the U.S.S.R.
Adverse events associated with acupuncture: a clinicopathologic review
Authors: Park Sung‐Min , Kim Won‐Jeong , Mun Je‐Ho , Kim Hoon‐Soo , Ko Hyun‐Chang , Kim Byung‐Soo , Kim Moon‐Bum , Song Margaret
Published: October 2015

Background

Acupuncture is one of the most popular modalities used to treat various diseases in traditional Korean and Oriental medicine. However, its risk of adverse events can be easily overlooked.

Objective

We investigated dermatological adverse events associated with acupuncture to draw attention to the risk of such adverse events.

Methods

We evaluated the types of acupuncture, clinicopathologic diagnoses, treatments, and prognoses in patients with a causal relationship between acupuncture and dermatoses.

Results

The study population comprised 25 patients (mean age, 52 years) with a history of acupuncture. Bee venom acupuncture was performed the most frequently (13 of 25 patients), and most patients received acupuncture to control pain (19 of 25 patients). The most common adverse event was infectious skin disease such as atypical mycobacterial infection or pyoderma/abscess, followed by hypersensitivity reactions, localized lipoatrophy, and hypertrophic scar. Acupuncture‐related dermatoses required a relatively long treatment period (average, 8.6 weeks).

Conclusion

Various dermatoses may occur following acupuncture. To minimize the risk of these dermatoses, proper training and medical knowledge in acupuncture practice are necessary for medical personnel. Dermatologists, oriental medical practitioners, and patients should pay attention to the potential adverse events of acupuncture.
Carbon dioxide laser treatment for Hailey–Hailey disease: a retrospective chart review with patient‐reported outcomes
Authors: Hochwalt Phillip C. , Christensen Kevin N. , Cantwell Sean R. , Hocker Thomas L. , Otley Clark C. , Brewer Jerry D. , Arpey Christopher J. , Roenigk Randall K. , Baum Christian L.
Published: October 2015

Background

Hailey–Hailey disease (HHD) is an autosomal dominant genodermatosis that leads to skin breakdown and blister formation, usually in intertriginous areas. Laser ablation is a known surgical treatment for HHD.

Objectives

We report outcomes in a series of patients with HHD treated with carbon dioxide (CO2) laser ablation.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of data for 13 patients who underwent CO2 laser ablation for HHD was conducted. Questionnaires assessing effectiveness, pain, healing time, recurrence, new disease, complications, additional ablation, improvement in quality of life (QoL), and overall satisfaction were completed by all patients.

Results

All patients had been recalcitrant to previous treatments prior to CO2 laser ablation. Anatomic sites treated and anesthesia techniques for the procedure varied. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) score for the effectiveness of CO2 laser ablation for HHD was 9.3 ± 0.9 (maximum: 10). All patients reported improved QoL. No patient had recurring disease within the treatment field. Five patients underwent additional CO2 laser treatments at new sites. One patient reported postoperative infection. No other complications were identified. The mean ± SD score for overall satisfaction with CO2 laser ablation was 8.9 ± 1.1.

Conclusions

Treatment with CO2 laser ablation is very effective and can lead to prolonged or permanent remission in most HHD patients. Patients are highly satisfied with the results and report a substantial improvement in QoL.
Influence of aeration and agitation modes on solid‐state fermentation of apple pomace waste by Phanerochaete chrysosporium to produce ligninolytic enzymes and co‐extract polyphenols
Authors: Gassara Fatma , Ajila Chandran Matheyambath , Brar Satinder Kaur , Tyagi Rajeshwar Dayal , Verma Mausam , Valero José
Published: October 2015

The effect of different types of agitation (i) continuous agitation (C); (ii) continuous, discontinuous, continuous agitation (C/D/C); (iii) discontinuous, continuous, discontinuous agitation (D/C/D) and aeration (0.87, 1.25, 1.66 vvm) on ligninolytic enzyme production and polyphenolic compounds extraction by solid‐state cultures of Phanerochaete chrysosporium BKM‐F‐1767 was investigated. Higher production of manganese peroxidase (MnP) (1690.3 ± 87.6), lignin peroxidase (LiP) (387.9 ± 14.3) and laccase (898.9 ± 53.3 U gds−1) and liberation of total polyphenolics (ranging from 12.22 ± 1.1 to 30.12 ± 0.88 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram DW) was obtained after 195, 147, 219 and 204 h of fermentation, respectively, using 1.66 vvm as airflow and (C/D/C) agitation mode. Maximal enzyme production and total polyphenolic content were influenced by aeration, and higher values were obtained using 1.66 vvm as airflow rate, followed by 1.25 and 0.83 vvm, respectively. They were also influenced by agitation, and maximal values were obtained using C/D/C, followed by D/C/D and continuous agitation, respectively. The agitation modes influenced the production of ligninolytic enzymes and simultaneous extraction of polyphenols.
Change of glycaemic control and predictors in diabetes patients: Longitudinal observational study during the one year after hospital discharge
Authors: Tai Li‐Ai , Tsai Li‐Yu , Chen Shu‐Ching
Published: October 2015

Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) might reflect glycaemic control in persons with diabetes. Study aims were to identify changes in glycated haemoglobin values and predictors (baseline coping behaviour, fasting plasma glucose, disease‐related and demographic factors) in patients during 1 year after hospital discharge. A longitudinal prospective design with convenience sampling was used. Subjects were recruited from a community hospital inTaiwan. Measures includedJalowiecCopingScale, fasting plasma glucose,HbA1cvalues, and demographics. Generalized estimating equation was used to determine factors of change in glycated haemoglobin. A total of 57 patients completed 1 year of follow‐up. Half did not receive diabetes mellitus education and regular exercise. Patients’ glycated haemoglobin levels follow controls at 6 months after discharge. Patients with higher levels of blood glucose, less problem‐focused coping and greater emotion‐focused coping were associated with poor glycaemic control. Education programmes should involve individual‐centred care and health behaviours for prevention of diabetes complications.
Degree of ambulation and factors associated with the median distance moved per day in Alzheimer's disease patients
Authors: Nishikata Shiori , Yamakawa Miyae , Shigenobu Kazue , Suto Shunji , Makimoto Kiyoko
Published: October 2015

The Integrated Circuit tag monitoring system became available to measure wandering in terms of the distance moved by dementia patients. The purposes of the study were to describe degree of ambulation in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and to examine factors associated with the distance moved. AD patients were recruited at a dementia care unit in Asakayama Hospital, Osaka, Japan. The monitoring system generated the distance moved per day. Demographic and clinical data were abstracted from medical records. Mini‐Mental State Examination was used to measure cognitive function. A multiple linear regression was used to predict the distance moved per day. The research was approved by the ethics committee of the university and the hospital, and written informed consent was obtained from the patients' proxies. Majority of the AD subjects monitored had moderate to advance stage of dementia. Patients’ age and cognitive function were predictors of the median distance moved/day, and these two variables explained almost half of the variance. Older age and lower cognitive function were associated with reduced median distance moved per day in AD patients.
Notions of Healing and Transcendence in the Trajectory of African Traditional Religion: Paradigm and Strategies
Authors: Essien Essien D.
Published: October 2015

This paper examines the import of transcendence in illnesses and misfortunes as well as the place of healing in African traditional religion. The belief in medicine among Africans is the art of using available forces of nature to prevent disease and to restore and preserve health. It occupies a prominent position in the religious lives of African people. This article draws attention to the practice of several healing activities in African traditional religion in its attempts to restore health, exploring the indigenization of health care procedures and the role and function of God in African medicine and healing. This work shows that the concept of God is central in African religion and plays a prominent role in its healing ministry. The paper concludes with a suggestion about what could constitute a collective synergy for Western orthodox and African traditional medicine.
Inherited defects in lymphocyte cytotoxic activity
Authors: Schmid Jana P. , Côte Marjorie , Ménager Mickaël M. , Burgess Agathe , Nehme Nadine , Ménasché Gaël , Fischer Alain , De Saint Basile Geneviève
Published: October 2015

Summary:  The granule‐dependent cytotoxic activity of lymphocytes plays a critical role in the defense against virally infected cells and tumor cells. The importance of this cytotoxic pathway in immune regulation is evidenced by the severe and often fatal condition, known as hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytic syndrome (HLH) that occurs in mice and humans with genetically determined impaired lymphocyte cytotoxic function. HLH manifests as the occurrence of uncontrolled activation of T lymphocytes and macrophages infiltrating multiple organs. In this review, we focus on recent advances in the characterization of effectors regulating the release of cytotoxic granules, and on the role of this cytotoxic pathway in lymphocyte homeostasis and immune surveillance. Analysis of the mechanisms leading to the occurrence of hemophagocytic syndrome designates γ‐interferon as an attractive therapeutic target to downregulate uncontrolled macrophage activation, which sustains clinical and biological features of HLH.
Once a killer, always a killer: from cytotoxic T cell to memory cell
Authors: Lefrançois Leo , Obar Joshua J.
Published: October 2015

Summary:  The control of the differentiation pathways followed by responding CD8+ T cells to produce protective memory cells has been intensely studied. Recent developments have identified heterogeneity at the effector cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte level within which a bona fide memory cell precursor has emerged. The challenge now is to identify the cellular and molecular factors that control this developmental pathway. This review considers aspects of the regulation of the induction of effectors, the transition of effectors to memory cells, and the dynamics of the memory population.
Plasticity in programming of effector and memory CD8+ T‐cell formation
Authors: Arens Ramon , Schoenberger Stephen P.
Published: October 2015

Summary:  CD8+ T cells (also called cytotoxic T lymphocytes) play a major role in protective immunity against many infectious pathogens and can eradicate malignant cells. The path from naive precursor to effector and memory CD8+ T‐cell development begins with interactions between matured antigen‐bearing dendritic cells (DCs) and antigen‐specific naive T‐cell clonal precursors. By integrating differences in antigenic, costimulatory, and inflammatory signals, a developmental program is established that governs many key parameters associated with the ensuing response, including the extent and magnitude of clonal expansion, the functional capacities of the effector cells, and the size of the memory pool that survives after the contraction phase. In this review, we discuss the multitude of signals that drive effector and memory CD8+ T‐cell differentiation and how the differences in the nature of these signals contribute to the diversity of CD8+ T‐cell responses.
TIM genes: a family of cell surface phosphatidylserine receptors that regulate innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Freeman Gordon J. , Casasnovas Jose M. , Umetsu Dale T. , DeKruyff Rosemarie H.
Published: October 2015

Summary:  The TIM (T cell/transmembrane, immunoglobulin, and mucin) gene family plays a critical role in regulating immune responses, including allergy, asthma, transplant tolerance, autoimmunity, and the response to viral infections. The unique structure of TIM immunoglobulin variable region domains allows highly specific recognition of phosphatidylserine (PtdSer), exposed on the surface of apoptotic cells. TIM‐1, TIM‐3, and TIM‐4 all recognize PtdSer but differ in expression, suggesting that they have distinct functions in regulating immune responses. TIM‐1, an important susceptibility gene for asthma and allergy, is preferentially expressed on T‐helper 2 (Th2) cells and functions as a potent costimulatory molecule for T‐cell activation. TIM‐3 is preferentially expressed on Th1 and Tc1 cells, and generates an inhibitory signal resulting in apoptosis of Th1 and Tc1 cells. TIM‐3 is also expressed on some dendritic cells and can mediate phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and cross‐presentation of antigen. In contrast, TIM‐4 is exclusively expressed on antigen‐presenting cells, where it mediates phagocytosis of apoptotic cells and plays an important role in maintaining tolerance. TIM molecules thus provide a functional repertoire for recognition of apoptotic cells, which determines whether apoptotic cell recognition leads to immune activation or tolerance, depending on the TIM molecule engaged and the cell type on which it is expressed.