bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adiponectin‐Mediated Modulation of Lymphatic Vessel Formation and Lymphedema
Authors: Shimizu Yuuki , Shibata Rei , Ishii Masakazu , Ohashi Koji , Kambara Takahiro , Uemura Yusuke , Yuasa Daisuke , Kataoka Yoshiyuki , Kihara Shinji , Murohara Toyoaki , Ouchi Noriyuki
Published: September 2013

Background

Obesity is linked with an increased risk of lymphedema, which is a serious clinical problem. Adiponectin is a circulating adipokine that is down‐regulated in obese states. We investigated the effects of adiponectin on lymphatic vessel formation in a model of lymphedema and dissected its mechanisms.

Methods and Results

A mouse model of lymphedema was created via ablation of tail surface lymphatic network. Adiponectin‐knockout mice showed the greater diameter of the injured tail compared with wild‐type mice, which was associated with lower numbers of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). Systemic delivery of adiponectin reduced the thickness of the injured tail and enhanced LEC formation in wild‐type and adiponectin‐knockout mice. Adiponectin administration also improved the edema of injured tails in obese
KKAy
mice. Treatment with adiponectin protein stimulated the differentiation of human
LEC
s into tubelike structures and increased
LEC
viability. Adiponectin treatment promoted the phosphorylation of
AMP
‐activated protein kinase (
AMPK
), Akt, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase n
LECs
. Blockade of
AMPK
or Akt activity abolished adiponectin‐stimulated increase in
LEC
differentiation and viability and endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation. Inhibition of
AMPK
activation also suppressed adiponectin‐induced Akt phosphorylation in
LECs
. In contrast, inactivation of Akt signaling had no effects on adiponectin‐mediated
AMPK
phosphorylation in
LECs
. Furthermore, adiponectin administration did not affect the thickening of the damaged tail in endothelial nitric oxide synthase–knockout mice.

Conclusions

Adiponectin can promote lymphatic vessel formation via activation of
AMPK
/Akt/
endothelial nitric oxide synthase
signaling within LECs, thereby leading to amelioration of lymphedema.
Improving the Efficiency of Stroke Trials
Authors: McArthur Kate S. , Johnson Paul C.D. , Quinn Terence J. , Higgins Peter , Langhorne Peter , Walters Matthew R. , Weir Christopher J. , Dawson Jesse , Lees Kennedy R.
Published: September 2013

Background and Purpose—

Use of the modified Rankin scale (mRS) in multicenter trials may be limited by interobserver variability. We assessed the effect of this on trial power and developed a novel group adjudication approach.

Methods—

We generated power and sample size estimates from simulated trials modeled with varying mRS reliability. We conducted a virtual acute stroke trial across 14 UK sites to develop a group adjudication approach. Traditional mRS interviews, performed at local sites, were digitally recorded and scored by adjudication committee. We assessed the effect of translation by comparing scores in translated mRS interviews, originally conducted in English and Mandarin. Agreement was measured using κ and weighted κ (κ
w
) statistics and intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results—

Statistical simulations suggest that improving mRS reliability from κ=0.25 to κ=0.5 or 0.7 may allow reductions in sample size of n=386 or 490 in a typical n=2000 study. Our virtual acute stroke trial included 370 participants and 563 mRS video assessments. We adjudicated mRS in 538 of 563 (96%) study visits. At 30 and 90 days, 161 of 280 (57.5%) and 131 of 258 (50.8%) clips showed interobserver disagreement. Agreement within the adjudication committee was good (30-day κ
w
=0.85 [95% confidence interval, 0.81–0.86]; 90-day κ
w
=0.86 [95% confidence interval, 0.82–0.88]) without significant or systematic bias in mRS scoring compared with the local mRS. Interobserver reliability of translated mRS assessments was similar to native language clips (native [n=69] κ
w
=0.91 [95% confidence interval, 0.94–0.99]; translated [n=89] κ
w
=0.90 [95% confidence interval, 0.83–0.96]).

Conclusions—

Achievable improvements in interobserver reliability may substantially reduce study sample size, with associated financial benefits. Central adjudication of mRS assessments is feasible (including across international centers), valid and reliable despite the challenges of mRS assessment in large clinical trials.
The SUA 2005 Protocol: A Critical Reflection
Authors: MacDonald Scott D.
Published: September 2013

Abstract

This article is a critical reflection on the Protocol of 2005 to the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation. It begins with an examination of the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation (SUA), including: the objectives of the regime, the manner in which these objectives are met, and where SUA has failed. The discussion then turns to the 2005 Protocol, concentrating on the reasons why it was necessary to update SUA, the provisions of the 2005 Protocol, the anti-trafficking instruments that preceded the 2005 Protocol, and an analysis of the anti-trafficking innovations that were adopted and excluded. The article concludes by examining the reasons why the 2005 Protocol has not been more widely ratified and briefly considers possible future directions for maritime anti-terrorism regimes.
The Normative Status of the Responsibility to Protect after Libya
Authors: Loiselle Marie-Eve
Published: September 2013

The responsibility to protect concept has evolved rapidly in the last decade but its normative and legal status is still disputed. This paper assesses the degree of recognition the concept has attracted since its inception and the significance of resolutions 1970 and 1973 for the transformation of the responsibility to protect into a new norm of customary international law. It argues that despite claims about the centrality of the concept in the decision to intervene in Libya, the language of both resolutions, and the statements made by members of the Security Council surrounding their adoption, indicate that member states did not consider that they were legally bound to protect the population of Libya. Consequently, the intervention in Libya has not promoted the development of a legal obligation upon the international community to protect the world’s populations against gross violations of human rights.
A new species of the genus Tropiocolotes Peters, 1880 from western Iran (Squamata: Sauria: Gekkonidae)
Authors: KRAUSE VALENTINA
Published: September 2013

The genus Tropiocolotes comprises small, naked toed, ground dwelling and nocturnal desert geckos, ranging from Morocco and Mauritania in northern Africa to south and central Arabia as well as coastal Iran. Herein, we describe a new species of the genus Tropiocolotes from western Iran based on five specimens from Nayband region. This new taxon is described with a statistical approach based on 34 meristic, metric and qualitative morphological characters of more than 300 individuals of related species.
The South American wolf spider genus Birabenia Mello-Leitão, 1941 (Araneae: Lycosidae: Lycosinae)
Authors: PIACENTINI LUIS N. , LABORDA ALVARO
Published: September 2013

The wolf spider genus Birabenia Mello-Leitão, 1941 is revalidated, comprising B. birabenae Mello-Leitão (type species) and B. vittata (Mello-Leitão) comb. n. The monotypic genus Melloicosa Roewer is synonymised with Birabenia by the transfer of its type species Gnatholycosa vittata Mello-Leitão. Three species, Hogna taeniata (Mello-Leitão), Geolycosa sanogastensis (Mello-Leitão) and Paratrochosina murina (Mello-Leitão) are considered junior synonyms of B. birabenae. Representatives of Birabenia show affinities with Trochosa C. L. Koch but can be distinguished by the presence of one pair of apical spines or none on the ventral side of tibia I of females, the presence of four teeth on the cheliceral retromargin, a shorter furrow on the prolateral side of the tegulum on the male bulb and by having more than seven macrosetae at the tip of cymbium. Birabenia is distributed from north-western Argentina to southern Uruguay.
Uirassubrillia beckeri gen. n., sp. n. (Diptera: Chironomidae, Orthocladiinae) from northeastern Brazil
Authors: MENDES HUMBERTO FONSECA , ANDERSEN TROND , PINHO LUIZ CARLOS
Published: September 2013

Uirassubrillia beckeri gen. n., sp. n. is described and illustrated based on male and female imagines from Bahia State in Brazil. The new genus is placed in the Brillia-group as the adults have a strongly setose body and setose wing membrane, RM is long and oblique, and the eye has a long, parallel-sided dorsomedian extension. The male hypopygium has a characteristic digitiform superior volsella and a bifurcate gonostylus. The female has three seminal capsules, two large and a third, smaller one.
Two new species of Pseudonannolene Silvestri, 1895 from Brazilian iron ore caves (Spirostreptida: Pseudonannolenidae)
Authors: INIESTA LUIZ FELIPE MORETTI , FERREIRA RODRIGO LOPES
Published: September 2013

Pseudonannolene gogo sp. n. and Pseudonannolene rolamossa sp. n. are described from individuals collected from Brazilian iron ore caves, Minas Gerais state. The family Pseudonannolenidae is exclusively Neotropical and frequently found in caves of Brazil, from which 23 species are known. The new species are compared with its congeners and with other Brazilian cave-dwelling species.
Redescription of the tadpole of Kaloula taprobanica (Anura: Microhylidae)
from Sri Lanka
Authors: WEWELWALA KRISHAN , ALAGIYAWADU ANOMA I. , KODITUWAKKU GAYANTHI K. , BOPAGE MALAKA M.
Published: September 2013

According to Frost (2013), the genus Kaloula currently contains 15 species. It has a wide distribution ranging from Korea, northern China to lesser Sundas and Philippines; Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka; controversially in Nepal (Frost, 2013). So far, only one species is recorded from Sri Lanka, namely Kaloula taprobanica as originally described by Parker (1934). During a recent field trip, we found a large amount of tadpoles of this species in the environments of the city of Galle, Southern province, of Sri Lanka. Tadpoles were collected from 26/November/2010 up to 01/January/2011, from a rainwater dripped pond in a human settlement (06°03’29.7” N, 80°12’19.5” E, 17 m above sea level) and 18 calling males were observed in this pond. In the same pond also Polypedates cruciger (Blyth, 1852) was present. After the mating of K. taprobanica, large numbers of eggs were observed (n=1300). This water body was situated in an open area and the maximum depth of the pond was about 2.5 m. At the time of collection, the tadpoles were in different Gosner (1960) stages. Live specimens reared through metamorphosis (n=9) were used for the identification, and identification was based on various morphological characters (specimens largely agreed with the description provided by Dutta & Manamendra-Arachchi, 1996 and Manamendra-Arachchi & Pethiyagoda, 2006). Specimens were released at the site of capture after conclusive identification. A previous collection of four tadpoles of K. taprobanica was made by Kirtisinghe (1958) in the Western Province. Although the tadpole is thus not unknown to science, the previous description lacks important information and a re-desription is therefore warranted. The following larval redescription of K. taprobanica is based on a single tadpole in Gosner stage 39.
Climatology and Dynamics of the Summer Etesian Winds over the Eastern Mediterranean*
Authors: Tyrlis Evangelos , Lelieveld Jos
Published: September 2013

The Etesians are persistent northerly winds that prevail over the eastern Mediterranean during summer. A climatology of Etesian outbreaks over the Aegean was compiled with the aid of the 40-yr ECMWF Re-Analysis (ERA-40) dataset and their vertical organization is investigated. Their variability arises from high-frequency variability originating in the midlatitudes, interannual and intraseasonal variability controlled by the South Asian monsoon, and a local diurnal cycle. Consistent with the monsoon influence, Etesian outbreaks are most frequent from mid-July to mid-August. In agreement with previous studies, a negative trend in the incidence of Etesian outbreaks is detected during the overall June–September period, which is strikingly strong for September but diminishes in June. The strengthening of the Etesians by day over the central and southern Aegean results from the deepening of the Anatolian thermal low because of the daytime sensible heating near the surface. The timing of an outbreak onset is controlled by wave disturbances originating over the North Atlantic that trigger the development of a strong ridge over the Balkans, which induces anomalously strong northerly flow and subsidence over the Aegean. During Etesian outbreaks, sharp tropopause folds and stratospheric intrusions of high potential vorticity descend deeply into the troposphere.
Summer Rainfall Variability in Low-Latitude Highlands of China and Subtropical Indian Ocean Dipole
Authors: Cao Jie , Yao Ping , Wang Lin , Liu Kui
Published: September 2013

Based on reanalysis and observational datasets, this study proposes a reasonable mechanism for summer rainfall variations over the low-latitude highlands (LLH) of China, in which a subtropical Indian Ocean dipole (SIOD)-like pattern is the key external thermal forcing. In summers with a positive SIOD-like pattern, sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies may lead to lower-tropospheric divergence over the tropical Indian Ocean and convergence over the subtropical southwestern Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea. The convergence over the Arabian Sea can induce easterly anomalies of the divergent wind component off the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal (BOB), while the divergence over the tropical Indian Ocean can change the interhemispheric vertical circulation and produce a descending motion over the same area and cyclonic anomalies in the rotational wind component over the Indian peninsula. The combined effect of the divergent and rotational wind anomalies and enhanced interhemispheric vertical circulation facilitates easterly anomalies and weakens climatological water vapor flux to the northern BOB. Therefore, anomalous water vapor divergence and less precipitation are observed over the LLH. In summers with a negative SIOD-like pattern, the situation is approximately the same but with opposite polarity and a weaker role of the divergent wind component. Further analyses indicate that the summertime SIOD-like pattern can be traced to preceding seasons, especially in positive SIOD-like years. The SST–wind–evaporation feedback mechanism could account for maintenance of the SIOD-like pattern. These results provide efficient prediction potential for summer rainfall variations over the LLH.
Relation of Epicardial Adipose Tissue With Arterial Compliance and Stiffness in Patients With Hypertension
Authors: Korkmaz Levent , Cirakoglu Omer Faruk , Ağaç Mustafa Tarık , Erkan Hakan , Korkmaz Ayca Ata , Acar Zeydin , Kul Selim , Hatem Engin , Çelik Şükrü
Published: September 2013

The main aim of the present study was to investigate the association between epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and arterial function in patients with asymptomatic hypertension. Patients with hypertension (n = 155) were enrolled consecutively. Patients with decreased arterial compliance (AC) and increased cardioankle vascular index (CAVI) had higher EAT values compared with those with normal AC and CAVI (6.23 ± 1.67 vs 4.91 ± 1.40, P < .001 and 6.02 ± 1.61 vs 4.96 ± 1.46, P = .01, respectively). Analysis using the receiver–operating characteristics curve demonstrated that EAT 5.5 mm constitutes the cutoff value for the presence of increased CAVI with 67% sensitivity and 62% specificity (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.702, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.590-0.814) and decreased AC with 77% sensitivity and 65% specificity (AUC: 0.756, 95% CI 0.645-0.867). Assessment of EAT during echocardiography examination may provide information on arterial function in patients with asymptomatic hypertension. The link between EAT and arterial stiffness deserves further investigation.
High-Density Lipoproteins and Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Schaffer Alon , Verdoia Monica , Barbieri Lucia , Aprami Toni Mustahsani , Suryapranata Harry , Marino Paolo , Luca Giuseppe De
Published: September 2013

Our goal was to estimate the role of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) in predicting the prevalence and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) in 3280 patients undergoing coronary angiography. Predictors of lower HDL levels (<32 mg/dL) were male gender ( P < .001), diabetes mellitus ( P = .03), renal failure ( P = .01), higher low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol ( P < .001, respectively), triglycerides ( P < .001), and white blood cells ( P < .001), aging ( P < .001), previous myocardial infarction ( P = .02) and hemoglobin ( P < .001), treatment with angiotensin-receptor blockers ( P < .001), and statins ( P = .002). The HDL-C levels were significantly inversely associated with prevalence of CAD ( P < .001, adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval, CI] = 1.35 [1.25-1.45], P < .001), and HDL-C <44 mg/dL was best the predictive value of the risk of CAD, (adjusted OR [95%CI] = 1.61 [1.24-2.1], P < .001). We found significant association between HDL-C and the risk of CAD; a value <44 mg/dL was the best cutoff in the prediction of CAD.
Clinical trials with subjects unable to give consent: some ethical-legal paradoxes
Authors: Petrini Carlo
Published: September 2013

The Italian Data Protection Authority recently authorised a US pharmaceutical company and an Italian hospital to use the personal data of people without capacity to make their own decisions, including those with no legal representation, within the framework of a specific clinical trial although this is not legal under current Italian legislation. This action effectively acknowledged the validity of consent given by persons with family ties to patients, or those in hospitals caring for patients, in contrast with Italian legislation which regards as valid only consent that is given by a legally appointed guardian. This article considers the present state of the regulations governing trials involving incapacitated adults, the paradoxes generated by the discrepancy between the authorisation granted by the Authority and current legislation, and (possible) future developments.
Civil Aircraft Accident Investigation
Authors: Haines Daniel
Published: September 2013

This talk reviews some historic aircraft accidents and some more recent. It reflects on the division of accident causes, considering mechanical failures and aircrew failures, and on aircrew training. Investigation results may lead to improved aircraft design, and to appropriate crew training.
Policymaking by Other Means
Authors: Moynihan Donald P. , Herd Pamela , Ribgy Elizabeth
Published: September 2013

While politicians wage legislative battles about welfare benefits, bureaucratic procedures represent a less visible means to shape access to those benefits. By constructing complex and time-consuming application procedures, the state can effectively create administrative barriers that limit access to benefits. What explains the variation in the level of administrative burden that individuals face? We address this question by examining Medicaid procedures across the 50 U.S. states, identifying different types of administrative barriers. We find that such barriers tend to be lower in states with unified Democratic control of political institutions.
Incidental vocabulary acquisition from stories: Second and fourth graders learn more from listening than reading
Authors: Suggate Sebastian P. , Lenhard Wolfgang , Neudecker Elisabeth , Schneider Wolfgang
Published: September 2013

Both reading and language experiences contribute to vocabulary development, but questions remain as to what effect each has and when. This article investigates the effects that reading, telling and sharing a story have on vocabulary acquisition. Children ( N = 37) were told nine stories in a randomized, single-blind and counterbalanced 2 × 3 mixed design. The between-subjects variable was grade (2 vs 4) and the within-subjects factor was the story condition, being either read (adult read aloud) or told (free story telling) to the children, or read silently by the children (independent reading). Each story contained two rare target words that were unlikely to have been previously known to the children. Measures of receptive vocabulary, decoding, reading comprehension and target vocabulary acquisition from the story were also administered. Children in grade 4 performed better on the vocabulary acquisition test and there was a main effect for story condition; children learnt the least number of words when reading the stories independently and the most from the free story telling condition. Implications for vocabulary learning and the importance of oral language exposure – even for established readers in primary school – are discussed.
Stability of Self-Control
Authors: Jo Youngoh
Published: September 2013

In 2004, Hirschi redefined self-control by using the framework of his social control theory while retaining assumptions of his original self-control theory. A few studies have provided supportive evidence for the relationship between the newly defined self-control and deviant behavior, whereas no study has tested stability hypothesis by using this new self-control. This is the first study that examines whether the stability hypothesis is still valid in the revised self-control theory. A recent longitudinal national sample of South Korean youths has been used for this purpose. Correlation analysis revealed moderate relationships among self-control measures for 5 years. Self-control differences across genders and across offenders/nonoffenders were significant and consistent. Finally, the results of growth-mixture modeling indicated that 89.5% of the sample exhibited stable group differences in self-control. These findings provide support for the stability thesis in the new version of self-control theory. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Examining Ethnic Differences in Self-Reported Psychopathic Traits Among Portuguese Male Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Pechorro Pedro , Poiares Carlos , Barroso Ricardo , Nunes Cristina , Jesus Saul Neves
Published: September 2013

The aim of the present study was to analyze differences regarding psychopathic traits and related constructs in male youths of diverse ethnic backgrounds. The participants were 216 male youths from the Juvenile Detention Centers of the Portuguese Ministry of Justice (White Europeans group: n = 108; ethnic minorities group: n = 108). Psychopathy was measured by the Antisocial Process Screening Device and the Child and Adolescent Taxon Scale. The results showed that no differences were found between ethnic groups regarding psychopathic traits and psychopathy taxon. Independent of ethnic group membership, psychopathic trait scores were significantly associated with behavioral problems, conduct disorder, self-reported delinquency, seriousness of criminal activity, age of criminal activity onset, and age at first trouble with the law. The present study adds support to the literature regarding youth psychopathic traits and supports the psychopathy construct as universally and interculturally consistent.
Spectrum of autoantibodies for gastrointestinal autoimmune diseases in systemic lupus erythematosus patients
Authors: Picceli VF , Skare TL , Nisihara R , Kotze L , Messias-Reason I , Utiyama SRR
Published: September 2013

Background

Organ-specific autoimmune diseases may appear in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Gastrointestinal symptoms are well documented in SLE and may be similar to those related to autoimmune gastrointestinal diseases.

Objective

Our aim was to search for gastrointestinal organ-specific autoantibodies in 194 patients with systemic lupus and 103 healthy controls from Southern Brazil.

Methods

Anti-endomysium antibodies (IgA-EmA), anti-gastric parietal cells (GPC) antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA), anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) and anti-LKM-1 (liver-kidney microsomal) were searched for using indirect immunofluorescence in the sera of patients and controls.

Results

The total positivity of antibodies in SLE patients was 14.4% (28/194) and differed significantly from healthy individuals (0.97%; p < 0.001). IgA-EmA was more common in lupus patients than in controls (11/194; p = 0.009), and one of these patients had dermatitis herpetiformis. Clinical association revealed that IgA-EmA was more common in SLE patients with discoid lesions. The frequency of anti-GPC ( p = 0.10), ASMA ( p = 0.16) and AMA ( p = 0.55) did not differ significantly between groups. No patient presented LKM-1 autoantibodies. One patient presenting anti-GPC was diagnosed with atrophic gastritis and pernicious anemia.

Conclusion

Only IgA-EmA was significantly associated with lupus and with the presence of discoid lesions. Until now, no obvious association with celiac disease has been found.
Inventory Management and Small Firms Growth: An Analytical Study in Supply Chain
Authors: Chalotra Vipul
Published: September 2013

Inventory management augments business operations by effective flow of goods and services. It adds to profitability, competitive ability, service optimization, market diversification, etc. This article investigates the role of inventory management in fostering small firms’ growth. The research framework and hypotheses were examined by the empirical analysis of primary data collected from 44 functional manufacturing units sub-divided into ten lines of operation in district Udhampur, in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). Validity and reliability of the scales in the construct were assessed through Bartlett’s Test of Sphercity (BTS) and Cronbach-alpha test. The results of regression model and analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed that proper inventory management leads to economy and efficiency, nurtures competitive ability and paves way for cost reduction. Further results divulged that managers of different age group don’t significantly differ with regard to inventory control techniques. To promote inventory management, integrated strategic planning encompassing logistics, promotional-mix, technological capabilities and industrial promotion campaigns by government are needed.
Book Review: Managing Sustainable Development Programmes: A Learning Approach to Change
Authors: Mehrotra Rajen
Published: September 2013

Goran Brulim and Lennart Svensson, Managing Sustainable Development Programmes: A Learning Approach to Change, England: Gower Publishing Ltd., 2012, 218 pp.
A Hierarchy of Personal Agency for People With Life-Limiting Illness
Authors: Campbell Ann , Carrick Lorna , Elliott Robert
Published: September 2013

The purpose of the study was to discover how individuals diagnosed with a life-limiting illness experienced themselves as agents, even in the face of death. In this qualitative, multiple case study design, 4 female outpatient hospice patients with terminal illnesses received humanistic counseling to explore their experiences of themselves and their illness. A graded set of 8 levels of personal agency emerged from analyses of the texts of their sessions, ranging from a passive, objectified nonagentic mode to an active, autonomous fully agentic mode, with multiple subcategories representing further gradations within levels. Our results are consistent with guidelines for supportive and palliative care with advanced cancer, which specify that dying patients’ needs be assessed and that they be involved in decisions about their care.
Striving to Make a Positive Difference
Authors: Larsson Margaretha , Björk Maria , Ekebergh Margaretha , Sundler Annelie Johansson
Published: September 2013

In Sweden, school nurses are part of the School Health Service with the main objective of health promotion to support students’ health and attainment of educational goals. The aim in this phenomenological study was to illuminate the experiences of school nurses in promoting the health and well-being of adolescent girls. Seventeen school nurses were interviewed, both in groups and individually, to facilitate personal disclosure and expressions from their lived experiences. To achieve their goal of improving the health of adolescent girls, school nurses require flexibility in their approach and in endeavoring to make a positive difference they experience many challenges. This study concluded that school nurses can tactfully provide adolescent girls with knowledge and health guidance adjusted to individual needs and empowering the individual girl to participate in her own health process.
Localized Intrasplenic Mesothelioma
Authors: Giansanti Michele , Bellezza Guido , Guerriero Angela , Pireddu Anjuta , Sidoni Angelo
Published: September 2013

Malignant mesothelioma is a primary neoplasm of the serosal membranes that usually presents with a diffuse pattern of growth. However, cases of localized mesotheliomas have been described. The predominant localization is the pleura; peritoneum and pericardium being rarer localizations. Only few cases of true intraparenchymal mesothelioma arising in organs such as liver, gonads, lung, and pancreas have been described. We report a case of an otherwise healthy 48-year-old man without asbestos exposure with a nodule of 3 cm in diameter, localized in the spleen, discovered incidentally at the ultrasonographic examination, for which histopathological and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with epithelioid mesothelioma: large round cells with eosinophil dense cytoplasm and macronucleoli and with immunohistochemical positivity for pancytokeratins, calretinin, Wilms tumor-1, and others markers of mesothelial differentiation. The diagnosis of localized intrasplenic epithelioid malignant mesothelioma was carried out. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of a localized intrasplenic mesothelioma published in the indexed literature.
Using Theater of the Oppressed to Prevent Sexual Violence on College Campuses
Authors: Christensen M. Candace
Published: September 2013

Using theater of the oppressed as a practice method in sexual assault prevention interventions with college students is gaining in popularity. Theater of the oppressed interventions aims to change values and norms that perpetuate the acceptability of sexual assault and teach college students how to intervene in situations where sexual violence may occur. In this review, the author reviews the literature on using theater for social change as a prevention intervention. The aim of the article is to provide a synthesis of empirical studies investigating the effects and impact of using theater for social change in prevention education. Based upon this synthesis, implications for practice, policy, and research are provided.
Microparticle-associated tissue factor activity is reduced by inhibition of the complement protein 5 in Neisseria meningitidis-exposed whole blood
Authors: Øvstebø Reidun , Hellum Marit , Aass Hans Christian D , Trøseid Anne M , Brandtzaeg Petter , Mollnes Tom E , Henriksson Carola E
Published: September 2013

Neisseria meningitidis causes fulminant meningococcal sepsis with a massive activation of the coagulation and complement cascades. Bacterial cell envelope molecules from N. meningitidis, particularly lipopolysaccharide (LPS), induce tissue factor (TF) expression. In meningococcal sepsis, TF can be detected on circulating monocytes and microparticles (MPs) within the bloodstream. During infection, Nm activates C5 and C5a, which also is able to induce TF. We evaluated the effect of eculizumab, a C5-blocking monoclonal antibodies (mAb), on cell- and MP-associated TF. Using a lepirudin-anticoagulated whole blood model, we activated the coagulation and complement cascades by N. meningitidis, and investigated the interaction between the cascade systems with special focus on cell-associated TF-expression (mRNA and protein) and MP-associated TF-dependent thrombin and fibrin generation in platelet-free plasma. We also examined the ability of TF-positive MPs to support clot formation in whole blood. In addition, the effect of corn trypsin inhibitor and time-dependent changes on MP-associated functional TF activity was examined. Inhibition of C5 reduced cell-associated TF expression at both gene and protein level, and reduced MP-associated TF-dependent thrombin and fibrin generation in platelet-poor plasma, MP-induced TF-dependent clot formation in whole blood, implying that the complement and coagulation cascades are interplayers in N. meningitidis-mediated activation of these cascades.
How to get into teaching and medical education
Authors: Baishnab Elora
Published: September 2013

Throughout GP training and within the early years of practice the focus is on learning to become a competent GP. It can often be a challenge to find the time and resources to teach during this part your medical career, particularly if you feel you lack expert knowledge on a topic. However, there are many advantages to teaching at this stage. The process of teaching aids learning and for many is an extremely enjoyable and rewarding experience. This article aims to look at opportunities for First5® GPs and GPs in training to get involved in teaching and provides some basic tools to help you to get started.
Finding the Balance: Oral Eating and Tube Feeding
Authors: Nowak-Cooperman Kim , Quinn-Shea Karen
Published: September 2013

This article describes the Two Week Intensive Feeding Program for Tube Fed Children at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The program uses a hunger-based model of treatment to wean children from tube dependence to oral feeding. It occurs as an outpatient, day treatment program over a 2-week period. The first phase is a multidisciplinary preprogram evaluation to determine the child’s suitability for enrollment in the program. Once the child is accepted into the program, significant calorie reduction occurs over the 4 days prior to beginning the on-site program. During the 2-week intensive phase, further caloric reductions may occur and both child and family are supported to learn new patterns of eating and mealtime structure. After completing the program, the follow-up phase includes appointments at 2, 5, and 9 weeks postcompletion. Several of the issues typically encountered will be highlighted through a detailed case study report of a child with developmental disabilities. Interventions contributing to the success of the 2 Week Intensive Feeding Program will be emphasized.
Endoscopic ultrasound, the one‐stop shop for abdominal pain?
Authors: Buxbaum James L , Eloubeidi Mohamad A
Published: September 2013

The Endosonography for Right Sided and Acute Upper Intestinal Misery (EFRAIM) study indicates that the yield of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is equivalent if not superior to upper endoscopy combined with transabdominal ultrasound in patients presenting with acute discomfort. Furthermore, this strategy may be more cost effective as EUS simultaneously enables assessment of intraluminal disease as well as extra intestinal pathology. These results are in sync with prior studies demonstrating the hegemony of EUS in the assessment of pancreaticobiliary disease and its role in the assessment of enigmatic chronic abdominal pain. Nevertheless, EUS does not permit assessment for appendicitis or genitourinary catastrophe. Thus a careful history and physical examination to localize pain to the right upper quadrant and epigastrium is essential.
Appearance in Bronze Age Scandinavia as Seen from the Nybøl burial
Authors: Bergerbrant Sophie , Jørgensen Lise Bender , Fossøy Sølvi Helene
Published: September 2013

The objective of this article is to study cloth and appearance in the Bronze Age based on the evidence from a previously overlooked oak-log coffin find, the Nybøl burial. The textiles have been investigated and our results compared with cloth from four well-known oak-log coffins: Muldbjerg, Trindhøj, and Borum Eshøj graves A and B. Our analysis demonstrates that this burial contained the coarsest cloth on record to date from the Scandinavian Bronze Age, and that it included some cloth items that are not previously known from the above-mentioned graves. The items of clothing the different textiles may have derived from are discussed, as well as the appearance of the deceased in relation to Bronze Age society. We conclude that this burial contained a previously unknown costume type, but that it is a variation of the others rather than an entirely new category.
An Off-Site Approach to Late Iron Age and Roman Landscapes on the Northern Plateau, Spain
Authors: García-Sánchez Jesús , Cisneros Miguel
Published: September 2013

Since 2009, a large-scale archaeological field survey – the Ager Segisamonensis Survey Project – has been carried out on the Northern Plateau of the Iberian Peninsula, in the Burgos province (Castilla y León), Spain. The aim of this project is to understand the Iron Age/Roman transition in terms of settlement strategies and landscape exploitation. The field survey has been undertaken in the landscape surrounding an Iron Age settlement and the successive Roman city of Segisamo – modern Sasamón. The goal is not the discovery of new settlements, but the recognition of the so-called ‘dwelling landscape’ and its evolution. In this article, we highlight our field survey methodology based on hand-held Global Positioning System (GPS) instruments and the creation of a recording system of ‘aggregation units'.
The Mute Statues Speak: The Archaic Period Acroteria from Poggio Civitate (Murlo)
Authors: O'Donoghue Eóin
Published: September 2013

Poggio Civitate has made an important contribution to the understanding of domestic architecture in pre-Roman central Italy since excavations commenced in 1966 uncovering two phases of monumental architecture. Interpretations of the site have been varied, with suggestions that it was the seat of a north Etruscan league or the base of a local élite family. This study argues that it was the latter, based upon an analysis of the famous ‘cowboy’ statue acroteria from the Archaic period complex. It is argued that the statues, as ancestral figures of the élite inhabitants, personified their wealth and power. The complex, and acroteria more generally, had a powerful psychological effect on those living within it, but more importantly those living in the surrounding territory. In addition the building is placed within its physical and socio-political landscape of north inland Etruria
A novel approach for quantitative assessment of mucosal damage in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Matalka Ismail I , Al-Omari Faruq A , Salama Rola M , Mohtaseb Alia H
Published: September 2013

Aims

One of the main reliable histological features to suggest the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease is the presence of significant distortion of the crypt architecture indicating the chronic nature of the disease resulting in mucosal damage. This feature has a considerable intra-observer and inter-observer variability leading to significant subjectivity in colonic biopsy assessment. In this paper, we present a novel automated system to assess mucosal damage and architectural distortion in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods

The proposed system relies on advanced image understating and processing techniques to segment digitally acquired images of microscopic biopsies, then, to extract key features to quantify the crypts irregularities in shape and distribution. These features were used as inputs to an artificial intelligent classifier that, after a training phase, can carry out the assessment automatically.

Results

The developed system was evaluated using 118 IBD biopsies. 116 out of 118 biopsies were correctly classified as compared to the consensus of three expert pathologists, achieving an overall precision of 98.31%.

Conclusions

An automated intelligent system to quantitatively assess inflammatory bowel disease was developed. The proposed system utilized advanced image understanding techniques together with an intelligent classifier to conduct the assessment. The developed system proved to be reliable, robust, and minimizes subjectivity and inter- and intra-observer variability.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1797721309305023
Dendritic fibromyxolipoma in the right inguinal and perineum regions: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zhang Xing Jian , Zhou Song , Nie Kai , Chen Da Feng , Kui Guo Ju , Zhang Xue Hui
Published: September 2013

A 32-year-old woman presented with a slow-growing, painless, subcutaneous lesion in the right inguinal and perineum regions. The mass was 24.0 cm × 10.5 cm × 5.0 cm in size, well circumscribed, mobile, and rubbery. Microscopically, the resected mass was mainly composed by a proliferation of small spindle or stellate cells, variably admixed with mature adipose tissue, embedded within an abundant myxoid and collagenized stroma. Immunohistochemically, the spindle and stellate cells were strongly positive for vimentin, CD34, and bcl-2 antibodies but not for smooth muscle actin and desmin. The tumor was diagnosed as dendritic fibromyxolipoma based on the typical findings of histology and immunohistochemistry. Clinical follow-up of 9 months after surgery revealed no evidence of recurrence. We report the first case of dendritic fibromyxolipoma in the right inguinal and perineum regions and discuss the different diagnosis.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1313680868103019.
Identification of aberrant microRNA expression pattern in pediatric gliomas by microarray
Authors: Liu Fatao , Xiong Yuyu , Zhao Yang , Tao Liming , Zhang Zhou , Zhang Hong , Liu Yun , Feng Guoyin , Li Baojie , He Lin , Ma Jie , Qin Shengying , Yang Yifeng
Published: September 2013

Background

Brain tumor remains the leading cause of disease-related death in children. Many studies have focused on the complex biological process involved in pediatric brain tumors but little is know about the possible role of microRNAs in the genesis of these tumors.

Methods

In this study, we used a microRNA microarray assay to study the expression pattern of microRNAs in pediatric gliomas and matched normal tissues.

Results

We found 40 differentially expressed microRNAs, among which miR-1321, miR-513b, miR-769-3p were found be related to cancer genesis for the first time. The expression of selected microRNAs were then confirmed by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, GO and pathway analysis showed that the target genes of the 40 differentially expressed microRNAs were significantly enriched in nervous system-related and tumor-related biological processes and signaling pathways. Additionally, an apoptosis-related network of microRNA–mRNA interaction, representing the critical microRNAs and their targets, was constructed based on microRNA status.

Conclusions

In the present study we identified the changed expression pattern of microRNAs in pediatric gliamas. Our study also provides a better understanding of pediatric brain tumor biology and may assist in the development of less toxic therapies and in the search for better markers for disease stratification.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1323049861105720
Sudden death of an infant with cardiac, nervous system and genetic involvement – a case report
Authors: Mecchia Donatella , Casale Valentina , Oneda Roberta , Matturri Luigi , Lavezzi Anna Maria
Published: September 2013

We present a case of sudden death of a 1-month-old male infant with heart, brainstem and genetic polymorphism involvement. Previously considered quite healthy, the child died suddenly and unexpectedly during sleep. The autopsy protocol included an in-depth anatomopathological examination of both the autonomic nervous system and the cardiac conduction system, and molecular analysis of the serotonin transporter gene promoter region, in which a specific genetic condition seems to be associated with sudden infant death. Histological examination revealed the presence of congenital cardiac alterations (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and an accessory Mahaim fiber in the cardiac conduction system), severe hypodevelopment of all the raphe nuclei and a heterozygous genotype L/S related to the serotonin transporter gene. The sudden death of this infant was the unavoidable outcome of a complex series of congenital anomalies, each predisposing to SIDS.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/3480540091031788
Myeloproliferative neoplasm with ETV6-ABL1 fusion: a case report and literature review
Authors: Gancheva Katya , Virchis Andres , Howard-Reeves Julie , Cross Nick CP , Brazma Diana , Grace Colin , Kotzampaltiris Paul , Partheniou Fedra , Nacheva Elisabeth
Published: September 2013

ETV6-ABL1 is a rare gene fusion with oncogenic properties, reported so far in 28 patients presenting a variety of haematological malignancies associated with clinical outcome, including chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML), acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm (cMPN). Here we report on a 46-year-old female who presented with Philadelphia negative CML, positive for the ETV6-ABL1 fusion. Whole genome screening carried out with oligonucleotide arrays showed a subtle loss at 12p13 and cryptic imbalances within the 9q34.3 region in a highly unstable genome. FISH mapping with custom BAC probes identified two breakpoints 5 Mb apart within the 9q34 region, together with a break at 12p13. While FISH with commercial BCR-ABL1 probes failed to detect any ABL1 changes, the ETV6 break-apart probe conclusively identified the ETV6-ABL1 fusion thus determining the probe’s role as the primary diagnostic FISH test for this chimeric oncogene. In addition, we confirm the association of the ETV6-ABL1 fusion with imatinib resistance reported so far in three other patients, while recording excellent response to the 2nd generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) nilotinib. In summary, we highlight the value of ETV6 FISH as a diagnostic test and the therapy resistance of ETV6-ABL1 positive disorders to imatinib.
The recent decline in employment dynamics
Authors: Hyatt Henry R , Spletzer James R
Published: September 2013

We document and attempt to explain the recent decline in employment dynamics in the U.S. We have four major empirical findings. First, each measure exhibits a “stair step” pattern, with the declines concentrated in recessions and little increase during subsequent expansions. Second, changes in the composition of workers and businesses can explain only a small amount of the decline. Third, any explanation for the decline in job creation and job destruction will account for no more than one-third of the decline in hires and separations. Fourth, the decline in hires and separations is driven by the disappearance of short-duration jobs.

JEL Codes

E24, J63