bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrointestinal mucosal abnormalities using videocapsule endoscopy in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Marie I. , Antonietti M. , Houivet E. , Hachulla E. , Maunoury V. , Bienvenu B. , Viennot S. , Smail A. , Duhaut P. , Dupas J ‐L. , Dominique S. , Hatron P.‐Y. , Levesque H. , Benichou J. , Ducrotté P.
Published: June 2014

Background

To date, there are no large studies on videocapsule endoscopy in systemic sclerosis (SSc). Consequently, the prevalence and features of gastrointestinal mucosal abnormalities in SSc have not been determined.

Aims

To determine both prevalence and characteristics of gastrointestinal mucosal abnormalities in unselected patients with SSc, using videocapsule endoscopy. To predict which SSc patients are at risk of developing potentially bleeding gastrointestinal vascular mucosal abnormalities.

Methods

Videocapsule endoscopy was performed on 50 patients with SSc.

Results

Prevalence of gastrointestinal mucosal abnormalities was 52%. Potentially bleeding vascular mucosal lesions were predominant, including: watermelon stomach (34.6%), gastric and/or small intestinal telangiectasia (26.9%) and gastric and/or small intestinal angiodysplasia (38.5%). SSc patients with gastrointestinal vascular mucosal lesions more often exhibited: limited cutaneous SSc (P = 0.06), digital ulcers (P = 0.05), higher score of nailfold videocapillaroscopy (P = 0.0009), anaemia (P = 0.02), lower levels of ferritin (P < 0.0001) and anti‐centromere antibody.

Conclusions

Our study identifies a high frequency of gastrointestinal mucosal abnormalities in SSc, with a marked predominance of vascular mucosal damage. Furthermore, our study shows a strong correlation between gastrointestinal vascular mucosal lesions and presence of severe extra‐digestive vasculopathy (digital ulcers and higher nailfold videocapillaroscopy scores). This latter supports the theory that SSc‐related diffuse vasculopathy is responsible for both cutaneous and digestive vascular lesions. Therefore, we suggest that nailfold videocapillaroscopy may be a helpful test for managing SSc patients. In fact, nailfold videocapillaroscopy score should be calculated routinely, as it may result in identification of SSc patients at higher risk of developing potentially bleeding gastrointestinal vascular mucosal lesions.
The ethical profile of global marketing negotiators
Authors: Al‐Khatib Jamal A. , Al‐Habib Mohammed I. , Bogari Naima , Salamah Najah
Published: June 2014

As international trade and business opportunities grow globally, insight into trading partners’ strategies is essential. One of the major strategies that impact trading partners’ relationships is negotiation strategy employed by each partner. These strategies assume even greater importance when these strategies have ethical content. This study examines the effects of marketing executives’ preferred ethical ideologies (relativism and idealism), opportunism and Machiavellianism on their perceived appropriateness of unethical negotiation tactics. Utilizing a sample of 995 marketing executives from six countries, cluster analysis and multivariate analysis of variance revealed two types of marketing negotiators: principled and corrupt negotiators. Corrupt negotiators tend to be more Machiavellian, more relativist, more opportunistic and less idealistic than their principled counterparts. Principled negotiators tend to perceive unethical negotiation tactics less favorably than their corrupt counterparts. Implications of these results for practitioners and directions for future research are discussed.
Long non‐coding RNA UCA1 promotes glycolysis by upregulating hexokinase 2 through the mTOR–STAT3/microRNA143 pathway
Authors: Li Zhengkun , Li Xu , Wu Shouzhen , Xue Mei , Chen Wei
Published: June 2014

Cancer cells preferentially metabolize glucose through aerobic glycolysis, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. Emerging evidence has shown that long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) act as key regulators of multiple cancers. However, it remains largely unexplored whether and how lncRNA regulates glucose metabolism in cancer cells. In this study, we show that lncRNA UCA1 promotes glycolysis in bladder cancer cells, and that UCA1‐induced hexokinase 2 (HK2) functions as an important mediator in this process. We further show that UCA1 activates mTOR to regulate HK2 through both activation of STAT3 and repression of microRNA143. Taken together, these findings provide the first evidence that UCA1 plays a positive role in cancer cell glucose metabolism through the cascade of mTOR–STAT3/microRNA143–HK2, and reveal a novel link between lncRNA and the altered glucose metabolism in cancer cells.
Locating Human Resources to Reduce the Cost of Managing Networks of Protected Areas
Authors: Dumoulin Christine E. , Macmillan Tyler , Stoneman Rob , Armsworth Paul R.
Published: June 2014

Conservation organizations that manage networks of protected areas commonly require staff to travel to those areas for management and monitoring purposes. We examine how conservation organizations can reduce the resulting travel costs by locating human resources effectively. Specifically, we focus on the problem of siting the home offices of management staff, in a way that minimizes the travel costs involved. We illustrate the importance of travel cost using two case study applications, the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust (YWT), U.K., and the Northwest Florida Water Management District (NWF), USA. For YWT, siting an additional office effectively could save $43,000 in annual travel costs. Optimally, siting NWF's four existing offices could save $95,000 annually. These savings are sufficient for each organization to acquire 171–360 additional hectares of protected area or to hire an additional protected area manager. We also calculated the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions made possible by optimizing office locations.
Relationships between stream macroinvertebrate communities and new flood‐based indices of glacial influence
Authors: Cauvy‐Fraunié Sophie , Espinosa Rodrigo , Andino Patricio , Dangles Olivier , Jacobsen Dean
Published: June 2014

As glacier shrinkage is accelerating due to climate change, it is important to understand the effect of changes in glacier runoff on downstream aquatic communities. The overall goal of this study was to test the relevance of recently developed wavelet‐based metrics of flow variations caused by glacial melting cycles to deepen our knowledge about the relationship between glacial influence and aquatic biodiversity.

In an equatorial glacierised catchment, we selected 15 stream sites covering a gradient of direct contribution from glacial runoff. At each site, we recorded water level time series for 10 months and sampled benthic macroinvertebrates. Wavelet analyses on the water level time series were used to calculate three indices: glacial flood intensity, frequency and temporal clustering. We then examined how these three indices were related to macroinvertebrate community composition using generalised additive models.

While macroinvertebrate density decreased significantly with glacial flood intensity, we found a significant hump‐shaped relationship between local taxon richness and glacial flood intensity, a pattern that was not produced simply by overlapping broad taxon distributions from either end of the environmental gradient. These results suggest that glacial meltwater contribution creates local peaks in macroinvertebrate richness and enhances regional diversity in the catchment.

The significant relationships between faunal metrics and the new glacial influence indices suggest the latter are valuable for assessing the effects of altered meltwater contributions on aquatic communities of glacier‐fed rivers. Relationships differed depending on the feature of the glacial disturbance considered (glacial flood intensity, frequency, temporal clustering). We anticipate that these distinctions may help disentangle the mechanisms driving aquatic biodiversity in glacierised catchments, especially in terms of identifying resistance and/or resilience as key processes in glacial macroinvertebrate communities.
Potential of Rainwater Harvesting in a Thirsty World: A Survey of Ancient and Traditional Rainwater Harvesting Applications
Authors: Akpinar Ferrand Ezgi , Cecunjanin Fatima
Published: June 2014

This paper provides a survey of ancient and traditional rainwater harvesting applications as effective climate adaptation strategies. Rainwater harvesting has a more significant past than a present. The fifteen identified ancient and traditional rainwater harvesting practices and the societies that practiced them may provide a key water conservation strategy for the future in vulnerable regions found in the dry‐wet, semi‐arid, and arid climatic regions. In the past several decades, there has been a call from scientific and non‐governmental organization communities to combine modern water systems and old rainwater harvesting methods or to modernize the existing rainwater harvesting knowledge to benefit human settlements facing water scarcity.
Hydroclimate Extremes in Africa: Variability, Observations and Modeled Projections
Authors: Siebert Asher
Published: June 2014

Studies of climate change from both natural science and social science disciplines are increasingly turning their focus to the issue of extreme events. Extreme heat waves, storms, droughts, and coastal inundations pose a disproportionate risk to human life, livelihood, and capital across the world. In the Global South, including Africa, much of the adverse impacts come from hydroclimate extremes as people with limited means are often highly vulnerable to climate shocks. The focus of this review paper will be on hydroclimate extremes in Africa. This paper will consider observations and modeling studies of heat extremes, drought, and flooding from heavy rainfall, along with observations and modeling studies of extreme streamflow events in major rivers and extremes of lake level. This being said, observations of trends in extreme events need to be situated in a context of understanding regional hydroclimate variability. There is tremendous diversity and variability in the hydroclimate of Africa and many extreme events, especially of precipitation and streamflow are associated with patterns of natural variability on a range of time scales.
Outcome of behavioural treatment for idiopathic chronic constipation
Authors: Yang L. S. , Khera A. , Kamm M. A.
Published: June 2014

Background/Aim

Behavioural therapy is effective in patients with chronic intractable constipation despite standard treatment, but long‐term results in unselected patients are unclear. This study investigates the effects of behavioural therapy on symptoms, subjective well‐being, and the physical and mental quality of life.

Methods

Patients who had failed standard care for idiopathic chronic constipation underwent behavioural therapy in a specialist clinic. Symptom severity and quality of life were assessed before and after therapy using the ‘Constipation Scoring System’ and the Short‐Form 36 questionnaire. The primary outcome was subjective perception of improvement. Secondary outcomes were symptoms of constipation and quality of life scores.

Results

Of 233 consecutive patients with self‐reported constipation (median symptom duration 5–10 years, median age 44 years, females 86%), 180 (77%) completed treatment in a median of three (range 1–7) sessions. One hundred and sixty‐five patients (71% of all referrals or 92% of those completing treatment) reported subjective improvement. Median bowel frequency improved from once every 2–7 days to 1–3 per day (P = 0.05). Pain and bloating improved in more than 80% of patients. The Short‐Form 36 physical (P < 0.05) and mental (P < 0.05) composite scores improved significantly. Patients with a longer duration of symptoms were less likely to complete treatment. Digital evacuation prior to treatment was a predictor of poor outcome.

Conclusion

Behavioural therapy is associated with significant improvement in symptoms of chronic constipation and quality of life. Non‐drug therapies that successfully treat patients with functional gut disorders resistant to standard treatment are needed in the mainstream provision of care.
Burden of decompensated cirrhosis and ascites on hospital services in a tertiary care facility: time for change?
Authors: Fagan K. J. , Zhao E. Y. , Horsfall L. U. , Ruffin B. J. , Kruger M. S. , McPhail S. M. , O'Rourke P. , Ballard E. , Irvine K. M. , Powell E. E.
Published: June 2014

Background

Ascites, the most frequent complication of cirrhosis, is associated with poor prognosis and reduced quality of life. Recurrent hospital admissions are common and often unplanned, resulting in increased use of hospital services.

Aims

To examine use of hospital services by patients with cirrhosis and ascites requiring paracentesis, and to investigate factors associated with early unplanned readmission.

Methods

A retrospective review of the medical chart and clinical databases was performed for patients who underwent paracentesis between October 2011 and October 2012. Clinical parameters at index admission were compared between patients with and without early unplanned hospital readmissions.

Results

The 41 patients requiring paracentesis had 127 hospital admissions, 1164 occupied bed days and 733 medical imaging services. Most admissions (80.3%) were for management of ascites, of which 41.2% were unplanned. Of those eligible, 69.7% were readmitted and 42.4% had an early unplanned readmission. Twelve patients died and nine developed spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. Of those eligible for readmission, more patients died (P = 0.008) and/or developed spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (P = 0.027) if they had an early unplanned readmission during the study period. Markers of liver disease, as well as haemoglobin (P = 0.029), haematocrit (P = 0.024) and previous heavy alcohol use (P = 0.021) at index admission, were associated with early unplanned readmission.

Conclusion

Patients with cirrhosis and ascites comprise a small population who account for substantial use of hospital services. Markers of disease severity may identify patients at increased risk of early readmission. Alternative models of care should be considered to reduce unplanned hospital admissions, healthcare costs and pressure on emergency services.
Voltage‐Dependent Bulk Resistivity of SrTiO3:Mg Ceramics
Authors: Gil Escrig Lidon , Prades Marta , Beltrán Héctor , Cordoncillo Eloisa , Masó Nahum , West Anthony R.
Published: June 2014

Single phase ceramics of composition Sr(Ti1–xMgx)O3–x: 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.01 were prepared by sol–gel synthesis and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, impedance spectroscopy, and current–voltage measurements. The bulk and grain‐boundary conductivities increase on application of a small dc bias voltage in the range 3–200 V/cm and at temperatures in the range 150°C–800°C. A qualitatively similar increase in conductivity occurs on increasing in the surrounding atmosphere, which shows that conduction is p type. The conductivity increase is reversible on removal of the dc bias or on reducing and is not observed in undoped SrTiO3. It is an intrinsic property of the bulk material, differs from the voltage‐dependent effects observed with varistors and is attributed to changes in redox equilibria between oxygen species at the surface which cause changes in carrier concentration in the interior. A capacitive model of this low‐field dc bias effect is presented and compared with a memristive model of high field resistance degradation.
Influence of Restoration Age and Riparian Vegetation on Reach‐Scale Nutrient Retention in Restored Urban Streams
Authors: McMillan Sara K. , Tuttle Alea K. , Jennings Gregory D. , Gardner Angela
Published: June 2014

In urban watersheds, stormwater inputs largely bypass the buffering capacity of riparian zones through direct inputs of drainage pipes and lowered groundwater tables. However, vegetation near the stream can still influence instream nutrient transformations via maintenance of streambank stability, input of woody debris, modulation of organic matter sources, and temperature regulation. Stream restoration seeks to mimic many of these functions by engineering channel complexity, grading stream banks to reconnect incised channels, and replanting lost riparian vegetation. The goal of this study was to quantify these effects by measuring nitrate and phosphate uptake in five restored streams in Charlotte and Raleigh, North Carolina, with a range of restoration ages. Using nutrient spiraling methods, uptake velocity of nitrate (0.02‐3.56 mm/min) and phosphate (0.14‐19.1 mm/min) was similar to other urban restored streams and higher than unimpacted forested streams with variability influenced by restoration age and geomorphology. Using a multiple linear regression approach, reach‐scale phosphate uptake was greater in newly restored sites, which was attributed to assimilation by algal biofilms, whereas nitrate uptake was highest in older sites potentially due to greater channel stability and establishment of microbial communities. The patterns we observed highlight the influence of riparian vegetation on energy inputs (e.g., heat, organic matter) and thereby on nutrient retention.
Incubator birds: biogeographical origins and evolution of underground nesting in megapodes (Galliformes: Megapodiidae)
Authors: Harris Rebecca B. , Birks Sharon M. , Leaché Adam D.
Published: June 2014

Aim

Unique amongst birds, megapodes (family Megapodiidae) have exchanged the strategy of incubating eggs with the warmth of their bodies for incubation behaviours that rely entirely on environmental heat sources. Typically, mound‐builders capture heat released from the decomposition of organic materials, while burrow‐nesters lay their eggs in geothermal or solar‐heated soils. The evolutionary path towards novel incubation behaviours has led to ecological and physiological adaptations unique to megapodes. Here, we present a species tree for all extant megapodes that settles long‐standing debates about megapode evolution: namely, their biogeographical origins and ancestral nesting behaviour.

Location

Australasia.

Methods

A time‐calibrated multilocus species tree for all extant megapodes was constructed using *beast. We estimated and compared divergence dates for megapodes obtained from molecular rates, fossils, and a combination of fossils and rates. Using this tree, Bayesian estimation of ancestral nesting behaviour was conducted inBayesTraitsand ancestral ranges were estimated inBioGeoBEARS.

Results

Recent dispersal has led to the recolonization of mainland Australia and New Guinea byMegapodius. Bayesian estimation of ancestral states indicates that mound building is the most probable ancestral nesting behaviour in megapodes (posterior probability = 0.75). Burrow nesting was acquired early in the diversification of the family (at least 14 Ma), followed by a single switch back to mound building.

Main conclusions

Divergence dates and biogeographical reconstructions strongly suggest that dispersal, and not vicariance, led to the isolation of megapodes in Australasia. We propose that flight‐mediated dispersal to environmentally variable islands is responsible for the behavioural lability in nesting behaviours observed in someMegapodiusspecies today.
Correction of defective CFTR/ENaC function and tightness of cystic fibrosis airway epithelium by amniotic mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells
Authors: Carbone Annalucia , Castellani Stefano , Favia Maria , Diana Anna , Paracchini Valentina , Di Gioia Sante , Seia Manuela , Casavola Valeria , Colombo Carla , Conese Massimo
Published: June 2014

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, with most of the mortality given by the lung disease. Human amniotic mesenchymal stromal (stem) cells (hAMSCs) hold great promise for regenerative medicine in the field of lung disease; however, their potential as therapeutics for CF lung disease has not been fully explored. In the present study, hAMSCs were analysed in co‐cultures on Transwell filters with CF immortalized airway epithelial cells (CFBE41o‐ line) at different ratios to exploit their potency to resume basic defects associated with CF. The results show that F‐actin content was increased in co‐cultures as compared with CF cells and actin was reorganized to form stress fibres. Confocal microscopy studies revealed that co‐cultures had a tendency of increased expression of occludin and ZO‐1 at the intercellular borders, paralleled by a decrease in dextran permeability, suggestive of more organized tight junctions (TJs). Spectrofluorometric analysis of CFTR function demonstrated that hAMSC‐CFBE co‐cultures resumed chloride transport, in line with the appearance of the mature Band C of CFTR protein by Western blotting. Moreover, hAMSC‐CFBE co‐cultures, at a 1:5 ratio, showed a decrease in fluid absorption, as opposed to CFBE cell monolayers that displayed a great rate of fluid resorption from the apical side. Our data show that human amniotic MSCs can be used in co‐culture with CF respiratory epithelial cells to model their engraftment into the airways and have the potential to resume a tight epithelium with partial correction of the CF phenotype.
Phonological awareness and reading in boys with fragile X syndrome
Authors: Adlof Suzanne M. , Klusek Jessica , Shinkareva Svetlana V. , Robinson Marissa L. , Roberts Jane E.
Published: June 2014

Background

Reading delays are well documented in children with fragile X syndrome (FXS), but few studies have examined linguistic precursors of reading in this population. This study examined the longitudinal development of phonological awareness and its relationship with basic reading in boys with FXS. Individual differences in genetic, social‐behavioral and environmental factors were also investigated as predictors of phonological awareness.

Methods

Participants included 54 boys with FXS and 53 typically developing (TD) mental age‐matched peers who completed assessments of phonological awareness, nonverbal intelligence, and reading annually for up to 4 years. FMRP level and autism symptomatology were also measured within the FXS group. Hierarchical linear modeling was used to examine change in phonological awareness over time and its predictors. Linear regression was used to examine phonological awareness as a predictor of word reading.

Results

Boys with FXS exhibited slower growth than TD peers in phonological awareness only when nonverbal cognitive abilities were not controlled. The rate of change in phonological awareness decreased significantly after age 10 in boys with FXS. Phonological awareness accounted for 18% unique variance in basic reading ability after controlling for nonverbal cognition, with similar relationships across groups.

Conclusion

Phonological awareness skills in the boys with FXS were commensurate with their nonverbal cognitive abilities, with similar relationships between phonological awareness and reading as observed in the TD mental age‐matched peers. More research is needed to examine potential causal relationships between phonological awareness, other language skills, and reading abilities in individuals with FXS and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Risk of cerebral palsy associated with neonatal encephalopathy in macrosomic neonates
Authors: Yamada Takahiro , Akaishi Rina , Yamada Takashi , Morikawa Mamoru , Kaneuchi Masanori , Minakami Hisanori
Published: June 2014

Aim

To determine whether macrosomic infants with a birthweight of 4.0 kg or more have increased risk of cerebral palsy associated with neonatal encephalopathy (Enc‐CP).

Methods

A retrospective review of 132 singleton infants with Enc‐CP fulfilling all of the following criteria: born at gestational week (GW) 37 or more (n = 126) or weighing 2.5 kg or more at birth (n = 116) in or after January 2009 in Japan; no identifiable causes of cerebral palsy other than antenatal or intrapartum hypoxia; and exhibition of neonatal encephalopathy. National statistics of Japan were used to determine the numbers of infants according to birthweight categories.

Results

Of the 116 infants with a birthweight of 2.5 kg or more, 46 (39.7%), 49 (42.2%), 17 (14.7%) and four (3.4%) infants had birthweights of 2.5–2.99, 3.0–3.49, 3.5–3.99 and 4.0 kg or more, respectively. Corresponding figures among Japanese infants born in 2009–2011 were 42.8%, 45.4%, 10.9% and 0.90%, respectively. Infants with a birthweight of 4.0 kg or more had a relative risk (95% confidence interval) of Enc‐CP of 3.89 (1.52–9.95) compared to those with a birthweight of 2.5–2.99 kg.

Conclusion

Japanese infants with a birthweight of 4.0 kg or more have increased risk of Enc‐CP.
Comparative study of placental α‐microglobulin‐1, insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1 and nitrazine test to diagnose premature rupture of membranes: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Liang De‐ku , Qi Hong‐bo , Luo Xin , Xiao Xiao‐qiu , Jia Xiao‐yan
Published: June 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of placental α‐microglobulin‐1 (PAMG‐1), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1 (IGFBP‐1) and nitrazine test to diagnose premature rupture of membranes.

Material and Methods

A total of 120 pregnant women between 11 and 42 weeks with signs/symptoms of membrane rupture were eligible for our study. These women were evaluated with the PAMG‐1, IGFBP‐1, and nitrazine tests.

Results

In the 120 women, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of PAMG‐1, IGFBP‐1 and nitrazine test were 100%, 100%, 100%, and 100%, 93.33%, 98.89%, 96.55% and 97.80%, and 93.33%, 94.44%, 84.85%, and 97.7%, respectively. In a comparison of the PAMG‐1 test and the nitrazine test, positive coincidence rate was 84.85%, negative coincidence rate was 97.70%, total coincidence rate was 94.17%, and kappa value was 0.85. In a comparison of the PAMG‐1 test and the IGFBP‐1 test, the positive coincidence rate, negative coincidence rate and total coincidence rate were 96.55%, 97.80%, and 97.50%, and kappa value was 0.93.

Conclusion

PAMG‐1 assay was the most accurate method to diagnose premature rupture of membranes with the highest sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value.
Use of antidiabetic agents in the treatment of gestational diabetes mellitus in Germany, 2008–2012
Authors: Heilmaier Christina , Thielscher Christian , Ziller May , Altmann Verena , Kostev Karel
Published: June 2014

Aim

Adequate blood glucose control during pregnancy is important because gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is known to have adverse effects on the mother and child. Due to an increasing prevalence of GDM in recent years, more information on the use of different antidiabetic agents is required, which was the aim of the present study.

Material and Methods

Data from 32 diabetic practices in Germany were collected from January 2008 to December 2012 and analyzed using the Disease Analyzer Database. All women with International Classification of Diseases diagnosis O24 (that is, GDM) participated, except for patients with known type I or II diabetes mellitus, who were excluded. Analysis focused on the proportion of women requiring drug treatment in general. Thereafter, subanalysis was performed with a focus on the administration of different antidiabetic agents, namely insulin, metformin, and sulfonylurea.

Results

Within the given timeframe, medication‐based treatment for GDM significantly rose to reach 30.8% of all women with GDM. Both the administration of insulin and metformin grew considerably within the 5‐year period with metformin being increasingly used without supplemental insulin and at lower dosages. Within the insulin treatment arm, insulin analogues became increasingly important. The proportion of sulfonylurea remained stable (0.2%).

Conclusions

GDM is more often treated with antidiabetic agents and, due to the fact that metformin is more frequently prescribed, it can be assumed that it is increasingly regarded as a safe and effective alternative to insulin.
Two cases of recurrent abortion in which isodicentric chromosome 15 was observed in the husbands
Authors: Nonaka Taro , Ooki Izumi , Enomoto Takayuki , Takakuwa Koichi
Published: June 2014

We report two cases of women positive for anticardiolipin antibodies who experienced recurrent abortion whose husbands had isodicentric chromosome 15 aberrations who eventually had successful pregnancies. Two women were referred to our hospital due to their medical history of recurrent abortion. Both were diagnosed as being positive for anticardiolipin antibodies and their husbands with isodicentric chromosome 15. After both patients were treated with a Japanese herbal medicine (Sairei‐to) and low‐dose aspirin for the positive anticardiolipin antibodies, they delivered appropriate‐for‐date infants at term gestation. Although both husbands were revealed to have isodicentric chromosome 15, and coincidentally both wives were positive for anticardiolipin antibodies, their next pregnancies continued uneventfully as a result of the treatment.
Amniotic fluid embolism: Pathophysiology and new strategies for management
Authors: Kanayama Naohiro , Tamura Naoaki
Published: June 2014

The registry program of amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) in Japan started in 2003. More than 400 hundred clinical diagnosed amniotic fluid embolism has been accumulated. Those data showed that there were two etiologies of AFE: the fetal materials create physical obstructions in the maternal microvessels in various organs, such as the lung; and (ii) the liquids cause an anaphylactoid reaction that leads to pulmonary vasospasm and activation of platelets, white blood cells and/or complements. The clinical findings showed that AFE was characterized mainly by cardiopulmonary collapse, the other involves the presence of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and atonic bleeding. Zinc coproporphyrin‐1, sialyl Tn antigen (STN), complement C3, C4 and interleukin‐8 have been used as serum markers of AFE. The levels of zinc coproporphyrin‐1 and STN were increased in cardiopulmonary collapse type AFE, and a marked reduction of C3 and C4 was observed in DIC type AFE. At the primary medical institution, initial treatments for shock airway management, vascular management, fluid replacement, administration of anti‐DIC therapy such as antithrombin, and administration of fresh frozen plasma should be provided. C1 esterase inhibitor activity in AFE cases was significantly lower than those of normal pregnant women. C1 esterase inhibitor may be a promising candidate of treatment of AFE.
Intravenous Thrombolysis Outcomes in Patients Presenting with Large Vessel Acute Ischemic Strokes—CT Angiography‐Based Prognosis
Authors: Rai Ansaar , Cline Brendan , Williams Eric , Carpenter Jeffrey , Roberts Thomas
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

To establish outcome rates for patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis based on vascular occlusion site.

METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of 225 patients who had received intravenous‐rt‐PA for anterior circulation strokes. The occlusion‐site was prospectively determined on the admission computed tomographic angiography (CTA) and divided into: large vessel occlusion (LVO) including patients with an internal carotid artery terminus or middle cerebral artery (M1/proximal M2) occlusions and no large vessel occlusion (No‐LVO; distal M2/M3/ACA) including patients with either distal or no occlusions. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin score (mRS) at 90‐days with a good outcome defined by mRS of 0‐2.000.

RESULTS

There were 114 (50.7%) patients in the LVO and 111 (49.3%) in the No‐LVO group. A good outcome was seen in 28 (24.6%) patients in the LVO and 77 (69.4%) patients in the No‐LVO group (OR .14; 95% CI: .08‐.26; P < .0001). Mortality was observed in 13 (11.7%) patients in the No‐LVO group and 48 (42.1%) patients in the LVO group (OR .18; 95% CI: .09‐.36; P < .0001). Significant hemorrhage was seen in 14 (12.5%) patients in the LVO and 0 (0%) patients in the No‐LVO group (P < .0001). Older age (OR .96; 95% CI: .93‐.98; P = .002) and presence of LVO (OR .29; 95% CI: .12‐.68; P = .004) were significant independent predictors of poor outcome.

CONCLUSION

CTA identification of proximal occlusions is associated with significantly poor outcomes in patients receiving intravenous stroke thrombolysis.
Investigating Mental Fitness and School Connectedness in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Murnaghan Donna , Morrison William , Laurence Courtney , Bell Brandi
Published: June 2014

BACKGROUND

As youth struggle with anxiety and depression, promoting positive mental fitness is a primary concern. Canadian school‐based mental health programs that focus on positive psychology and positive mental health initiatives emphasize safe and supportive environments, student engagement, resilience, and self‐determination. This study examined predictors of mental fitness and its 3 components (autonomy, competence, and relatedness).

METHODS

School Health Action Planning and Evaluation System‐Prince Edward Island (SHAPES‐PEI) and the New Brunswick Student Wellness Survey (NB SWS) are data collection and feedback systems that survey youth about 4 health behaviors. Grade 7‐12 students in Prince Edward Island (N = 3318) and New Brunswick (N = 7314) completed a mental fitness questionnaire in 2008‐2009 (PEI) and 2006‐2007 (NB). Four linear regression models were conducted to examine student characteristics associated with mental fitness, autonomy, competence, and relatedness.

RESULTS

Positive associations were found between school connectedness (p < .0001) and mental fitness, as well as autonomy, competence, and relatedness. There were also significant relationships between affect, pro‐social and antisocial behaviors, tried smoking, and mental fitness.

CONCLUSION

A better understanding of adolescent health and its predictors is needed. By identifying core parameters for mental fitness, we can inform how to address students' needs through appropriate programs and policies supporting healthy school environments.
The Importance of an Innovative Product Design on Customer Behavior: Development and Validation of a Scale
Authors: Moon Hakil , Park Jeongdoo , Kim Sangkyun
Published: June 2014

The importance of innovative product design (IPD) has increased in recent years because customers' decision‐making factors have changed from product price to product design. However, a definition and measurement of IPD have not been developed adequately. Building on the customer perspective, this study defines IPD and develops its standard measurement with three product design attributes: aesthetics, features, and ergonomics. Results of the empirical test indicate strong evidence for the reliability and validity of the measurement. Overall, this study shows that our measurement captures unique customer perceptions on product innovativeness from the product design. Additionally, theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
The New Face of Legal Inequality: Noncitizens and the Long-Term Trends in Sentencing Disparities across U.S. District Courts, 1992–2009
Authors: Light Michael T.
Published: June 2014

In the wake of mass immigration from Latin America, legal scholars have shifted focus from racial to ethnic inequality under the law. A series of studies now suggest that Hispanics may be the most disadvantaged group in U.S. courts, yet this body of work has yet to fully engage the role of citizenship status. The present research examines the punishment consequences for non-U.S. citizens sentenced in federal courts between 1992 and 2009. Drawing from work in citizenship studies and sociolegal inequality, I hypothesize that nonstate members will be punished more severely than U.S. citizens, and any trends in Hispanic ethnicity over this period will be linked to punitive changes in the treatment of noncitizens. In line with this hypothesis, results indicate a considerable punishment gap between citizens and noncitizens—larger than minority-white disparities. Additionally, this citizenship “penalty” has increased at the incarceration stage, explaining the majority of the increase in Hispanic-white disparity over the past two decades. As international migration increases, these findings call for greater theoretical and empirical breadth in legal inequality research beyond traditional emphases, such as race and ethnicity.
CK2‐dependent inhibitory phosphorylation is relieved by Ppt1 phosphatase for the ethanol stress‐specific activation of Hsf1 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Cho Bo‐Ram , Lee Peter , Hahn Ji‐Sook
Published: June 2014

Ethanol, the major fermentation product of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has long been known as an inducer of heat shock response, but the underlying mechanisms by which ethanol activates heat shock transcription factor (HSF) are not well understood. We demonstrate that CK2‐dependent phosphorylation on S608 is an ethanol stress‐specific repression mechanism of Hsf1, which does not affect the basal or heat‐induced activity of Hsf1. This repression is relieved by dephosphorylation by Ppt1 which directly interacts with Hsf1 via its tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domain. In response to ethanol stress, PPT1 deletion and CK2 overexpression exert synergistic inhibitory effects on Hsf1 activation, whereas Hsf1S608A mutant shows enhanced activation. Therefore, regulation of the Hsf1 S608 phosphorylation status by reciprocal actions of CK2 and Ppt1 might play an important role to determine Hsf1 sensitivity towards ethanol stress.
Mechanism of drug‐induced gingival overgrowth revisited: a unifying hypothesis
Authors: Brown RS , Arany PR
Published: June 2014

Drug‐induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) is a disfiguring side effect of anti‐convulsants, calcineurin inhibitors, and calcium channel blocking agents. A unifying hypothesis has been constructed which begins with cation flux inhibition induced by all three of these drug categories. Decreased cation influx of folic acid active transport within gingival fibroblasts leads to decreased cellular folate uptake, which in turn leads to changes in matrix metalloproteinases metabolism and the failure to activate collagenase. Decreased availability of activated collagenase results in decreased degradation of accumulated connective tissue which presents as DIGO. Studies supporting this hypothesis are discussed.
Buddhism and Family
Authors: Wilson Liz
Published: June 2014

The received wisdom about Buddhism depicts it as an otherworldly religion that values the solitary monk or nun and devalues family life and the social world in general. Recent scholarship, however, reveals evidence that this picture is seriously flawed. Yes, there are many seminal Buddhist texts that suggest that monastics should destroy familial ties to whatever extent is possible. But there are many other texts, as well as inscriptions and other forms of material culture such as art and architecture, that indicate that in both the past and the present, Buddhist monks and nuns have remained embedded in family life in ways that might surprise us. Moreover, many Buddhist institutions have been modeled on the family and rely on familial loyalties for their strength and endurance. Familial ties have shaped the expression of Buddhism in every Buddhist society, structuring Buddhist institutions and providing a fundamental language and form of practice.
Anabaptist and Mennonite Identity: Permeable Boundaries and Expanding Definitions
Authors: Koop Karl
Published: June 2014

This article provides an overview of Anabaptist and Mennonite historical and theological scholarship, supporting the claim that the field of study is becoming increasingly multi‐faceted and complex. This is due in part to the increasingly global character of the Anabaptist‐Mennonite tradition that traces its roots to the 16th‐century Radical Reformation. The first Anabaptists emerged in Zurich Switzerland in 1525, but their reforming brand soon spread to the environs of Austria, Moravia, Germany, and the Netherlands. The name ‘Mennonite’ is associated with Menno Simons, (1496–1561), a Dutch reformer who left the Roman Catholic Church to join the Anabaptist movement in 1536. He became an important leader, organizing congregations and providing counsel for reforming groups. In the 1540s, ecclesial and state authorities in the Netherlands began to identify the followers of this Dutch reformer as ‘Menists’ or ‘Mennonists.’ As the centuries past, Menno Simons's name was embraced by various Anabaptist groups in Europe and North America. More recently, the name has also been adopted by Christian communities in the global south. Today, some 1.7 million baptized Mennonites live in over 80 countries. An additional number of people identify themselves as Mennonite in the sense of having an ethnic, rather than religious, connection to the name.
A Log-Linear Modelling Approach to Assessing The Consistency of Ego Reports of Dyadic Outcomes With Applications to Fertility and Sexual Partnerships
Authors: Admiraal Ryan , Handcock Mark S.
Published: June 2014

We propose a log-linear model to assess the consistency of ego reports of dyadic outcomes. We do so specifically in the context where males and females report on shared events, and we demonstrate how inconsistencies can be assessed by using a log-linear model that estimates separate mixing totals for each set of reports. This modelling approach immediately allows us to determine where inconsistencies in reports occur. To demonstrate how our method can be easily implemented for survey data, we apply it to both the 1992 National Health and Social Life Survey and the 2002 National Survey of Family Growth. Our analysis identifies inconsistencies in male and female reports of concurrent partnerships and the number of biological children.
Classical Time Varying Factor-Augmented Vector Auto-Regressive Models—Estimation, Forecasting and Structural Analysis
Authors: Eickmeier Sandra , Lemke Wolfgang , Marcellino Massimiliano
Published: June 2014

We propose a classical approach to estimate factor-augmented vector auto-regressive (FAVAR) models with time variation in the parameters. When the time varying FAVAR model is estimated by using a large quarterly data set of US variables from 1972 to 2012, the results indicate some changes in the factor dynamics, and more marked variation in the factors' shock volatility and their loading parameters. Forecasts from the time varying FAVAR model are more accurate, in particular over the global financial crisis period, than forecasts from other benchmark models. Finally, we use the time varying FAVAR model to assess how monetary transmission to the economy has changed.
The Flexible Correction Model: Bias Correction Guided by Naïve Theories of Bias
Authors: Chien Yi‐Wen , Wegener Duane T. , Petty Richard E. , Hsiao Chung‐Chiang
Published: June 2014

Psychological researchers have examined a broad array of biases and shortcomings of social perceivers. Less attention has been paid to how people react when they become concerned about the possibility of bias and attempt to correct or overcome the potential for bias. An early approach was to think of bias correction as “subtracting” information or reactions that are identified as coming from the biasing factor instead of the target. An alternative approach is to conceptualize bias correction as guided by social perceivers' naïve theories or perceptions of the bias at work. The subtraction theories were designed to deal with the assimilative biases typical of early priming experiments, but theory‐based corrections can readily deal with either assimilative or contrastive biases. We describe both types of correction theories, with a focus on the empirical support for theory‐based correction (and especially for the Flexible Correction Model). We also identify future directions for research on theory‐based correction.
Relation between skin micro‐topography, roughness, and skin age
Authors: Trojahn C. , Dobos G. , Schario M. , Ludriksone L. , Blume‐Peytavi U. , Kottner J.
Published: June 2014

Background

The topography of the skin surface consists of lines, wrinkles, and scales. Primary and secondary lines form a network like structure that may be identified as polygons. Skin surface roughness measurements are widely applied in dermatological research and practice but the relation between roughness parameters and their anatomical equivalents are unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether the number of closed polygons (NCP) per measurement field can be used as a reliable parameter to measure skin surface topography. For this purpose, we analysed the relation between skin surface roughness parameters and NCP in different age groups.

Methods

Images of the volar forearm skin of 38 subjects (14 children, 12 younger, and 12 older adults) were obtained with the VisioScan VC98. The NCP was counted by three independent researchers and selected roughness parameters were measured. Interrater reliability of counting the number of closed polygons and correlations between NCP, roughness parameters, and age were calculated.

Results

The mean NCP/mm² in children was 3.1 (SD 1.1), in younger adults 1.0 (SD 0.7), and in older adults 1.0 (SD 0.9). The interrater reliability was 0.9. A negative correlation of NCP/mm² with age was observed, whereas measured roughness parameters were positively associated with age. NCP/mm² was weakly related to skin roughness.

Conclusion

The NCP/mm² is a reproducible parameter for characterizing the skin surface topography. It is proposed as an additional parameter in dermatological research and practice because it represents distinct aspects of the cutaneous profile not covered by established roughness parameters.
In vivo evaluation of lateral lipid chain packing in human stratum corneum
Authors: Kikuchi S. , Aosaki T. , Bito K. , Naito S. , Katayama Y.
Published: June 2014

Background/aims

The matrix of intercellular lipids (ICL) of stratum corneum (SC) plays an important role in the barrier function of SC. It is important to understand the structure of the ICL matrix for dermatology and cosmetic science. Several methods exist for the analysis of the structure; however, it is difficult to conduct these analyses noninvasively.

Methods

We have developed a method for the analysis of the lateral packing of ICL using Raman spectroscopy. As a proof‐of‐principle experiment, we prepared a human SC sheet sample and analyzed its structure by the proposed method and by a conventional method involving X‐ray diffraction. We compared the results of both methods. In addition, we applied the proposed method to living human skin, and we analyzed the lateral packing of ICL of SC taken from three separate body sites.

Results

The results of our method corresponded to those of the conventional method. We detected regional differences of ICL lateral packing using our method in vivo. The results indicated that the packing of ICL in SC taken from the forearm and upper arm are more ordered than that taken from the cheek.

Conclusion

The results verify that our developed method allows the evaluation of the lateral packing of ICL inside the SC layer of the skin in vivo. Using this method, we can detect regional differences of SC samples taken from various body sites.
Survival of larvivorous fish used for biological control of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) combined with different larvicides
Authors: Paiva Clemilson Nogueira , de Oliveira Lima José Wellington , Camelo Sara Suhett , de França Lima Camila , de Góes Cavalcanti Luciano Pamplona
Published: June 2014

Objective

To evaluate combinations of larvicides and fish which are predators of larvae of Aedes aegypti, namely Betta splendens, Trichogaster trichopterus and Poecilia reticulata.

Methods

We used 15 water tanks with a capacity of 250 litres of water. In 10 tanks, larvicide – Temephos, Bti and Novaluron – was added, the other five contained only one specimen of fish and unchlorinated water. The fish were monitored for a week without changing the water, and their survival recorded on a form. An estimate of the Kaplan–Meier survival was performed to determine the significance of the tests.

Results

Betta splendens showed the lowest mortality range of larvicides tested.

Conclusion

Combined use of larvivorous fish and larvicides in large water tanks is feasible.