bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic therapy for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Simon D. , Bieber T.
Published: December 2013

Systemic therapy for atopic dermatitis (AD) is indicated in patients with severe disease refractory to adequate topical treatment. Currently available drugs aim to decrease inflammation by suppressing and/or modulating immune responses and thus may indirectly improve skin barrier function, resulting in a decrease in clinical signs and symptoms in particular pruritus. Before considering systemic treatment, patient adherence to topical treatment including skin care has to be ensured. The selection of the drug depends on the disease severity, localization, complications, concomitant diseases, and age of the patient, but also on their availability and costs as well as the doctor's experience. Bearing in mind the potential risk of resistance, systemic therapy with antibiotics should be exclusively considered in clinically manifest infections such as in children. Here, we review recently published clinical trials and case reports on systemic therapy of pediatric and adult patients with AD to draw conclusions for clinical practice. Although AD is a common disease, controlled clinical studies investigating the efficacy of systemic drugs are scarce, except for cyclosporine, which has been approved for the therapy of severe AD.
Glucose‐induced inhibition of insulin secretion
Authors: Hellman B. , Grapengiesser E.
Published: December 2013

Increase in glucose is known to elevate the concentration of cytoplasmic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) in pancreatic β‐cells and stimulate insulin secretion. However, rise of glucose can also lower [Ca2+]i and inhibit insulin release. In the present review, we examine the mechanisms for this inhibition and highlight its importance for the healthy β‐cell and the development of diabetes. It is possible to distinguish between 60 and 90 s of prompt inhibition and the late inhibition seen after the first‐phase peak of insulin release. The introductory inhibition is characteristic of the healthy β‐cell and mediated by sequestration of [Ca2+]i in the endoplasmic reticulum. This inhibition is easily seen in studies of isolated islets but too brief to be detected in a conventional intravenous glucose tolerance test. Coupled to simultaneous rise of glucagon, the introductory suppression of insulin release is the starting point for the antiphase relation between the subsequent insulin and glucagon pulses. Another effect of the initial suppression is to increase the pool of readily releasable granules responsible for the first‐phase release of insulin. The presence of late inhibition of insulin release is an indicator of β‐cell dysfunction. Patients with type 2 diabetes often respond to intravenous bolus injection of glucose with 5–10 min of late suppression of circulating insulin.
Aesthetic labour in creative industries: the case of independent musicians in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Hracs Brian J , Leslie Deborah
Published: December 2013

In this paper we examine the changing nature of aesthetic labour in creative industries. Drawing on a case study of independent musicians in Toronto, we argue that the spatiality and temporality of aesthetic labour has shifted as a result of technological change in the music industry and the decline of record labels. In particular, we demonstrate that aesthetic labour in the music industry has become more time‐intensive and takes place across a growing range of spaces, including the stage, the home and online. This paper contributes to existing studies in geography that consider the spatial dynamics and precarious conditions of creative labour.
Quis Auditoret Ipsos Auditores? Can Auditors Be Trusted?
Authors: Howieson Bryan
Published: December 2013

This article explores the extent to which the audit profession and its practices promote public trust in audits. Differences between auditors and non‐auditors as to beliefs about the role of a financial report audit have long been discussed under the term ‘expectations gap’. However, this prior debate has tended to focus on non‐auditors’ alleged misunderstanding of audit processes without a corresponding understanding on the part of the profession as to why the public might place its trust in auditors. The study explores the nature of trust in an auditing context and notes that like any profession, auditing faces practical limitations but the inability to directly observe the conduct of audits combined with professional status create an ‘over trust’ expectation in the public. Changes in audit practices and culture have also exposed the profession to criticism. The article seeks to offer one approach by which the auditing profession can restore public confidence; namely, evidence‐based practice, which has proven effective in improving the quality of practice in medicine. Adoption of a reflective evidence‐based approach to audit practice offers the promise of greater audit quality and an improvement in the profession's accountability and public confidence.
A Study of the Informal Interactions between Audit Committees and Internal Auditors in Australia
Authors: Sarens Gerrit , Christopher Joe , Zaman Mahbub
Published: December 2013

This paper finds evidence for the growing importance of informal interactions between the internal audit function and the audit committee (AC) in Australia – a relatively unexplored topic in the literature – using a survey of Chief Audit Executives (CAEs). It also describes the nature of these informal interactions. The most innovative elements of this paper are the findings that certain personal characteristics of CAEs, the specific knowledge and expertise of the AC chair, as well as some of the AC chair's personal characteristics are associated with the existence (and increase) of informal interactions.
Better Late than Never, the Timing of Goodwill Impairment Testing in Australia
Authors: Ji Kaiying
Published: December 2013

The International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) goodwill impairment testing regime has been in place in Australia for almost a decade. One of the burning issues arising from the adoption of the IFRS regime is whether firms have impaired goodwill in a timely manner. This study examines the timing of goodwill impairment decisions in the Australian context during the period 2007 to 2009. It is evident that a non‐trivial number of firms did not impair goodwill as called for under the standard governing asset impairment.
New Auditors’ Decisions for Released Firms from the Mandatory Auditor Designation Rule: Evidence From South Korea
Authors: Lee Dong Heun , Kim Seon Mi , Oh Kwang Wuk , Yoo Seung Weon
Published: December 2013

This study examines the effect of the mandatory designation rule on audit fees charged and audit hours rendered by auditors for firms released from the mandatory auditor designation rule in the Korean audit market. Under the mandatory auditor designation rule, which took effect in 1991, problematic firms are assigned new auditors by the Financial Supervisory Service. Previous studies suggest that this regulation positively affects the quality of audits by promoting auditor independence. Thus, this study hypothesises that firms that have been subjected to mandatory auditor designation improve the quality of their financial reporting, and that auditors hired after the mandatory designation period account for reduced audit risks when determining audit fees and audit hours. This study shows that audit fees and audit hours of firms released from the mandatory auditor designation rule are lower than those of other initial audit engagements. Taken together, this study's findings reinforce the notion that auditors’ perceptions of changes in audit risk yield corresponding changes in the audit fees they charge and audit hours they render.
Fundamental‐based Market Strategies
Authors: Aspris Angelo , Finch Nigel , Foley Sean , Meyer Zachary
Published: December 2013

A significant body of literature has raised the possibility that portfolio outperformance based on a simple accounting‐based investment strategy can persist through time because markets may ignore and potentially misinterpret financial market signals. Employing a fundamental‐based strategy, we show that superior performance can be earned consistently through time by identifying and investing in firms with more favourable performance and credit signals. The strength of these portfolios are additionally characterised by the ability of the strategies to avoid firms with poor future prospects. These findings are robust across varying time periods after both transaction costs and related market constraints are considered.
Comparative neurochemical features of the innervation patterns of the gut of the basal actinopterygian, Lepisosteus oculatus, and the euteleost, Clarias batrachus
Authors: Zaccone Giacomo , Lauriano Eugenia Rita , Silvestri Giuseppa , Kenaley Christopher , Icardo José M. , Pergolizzi Simona , Alesci Alessio , Sengar Manvendra , Kuciel Michal , Gopesh Anita
Published: December 2013

The structure and physiology of enteric system are very similar in all classes of vertebrates, although they have been investigated only occasionally in non‐mammalian vertebrates. Very little is known about the distribution of the neurotransmitters in the gut of actinopterygian fishes. Anatomical and physiological studies of enteric nervous systems in the spotted gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) and airbreathing catfish (Clarias batrachus), a non‐teleost and teleost actinopterygian, respectively, have not been undertaken. This study provides the first comprehensive characterization of the range of neurochemical coding in the enteric nervous system of these two species, including the chemical diversity of the mucosal endocrine cells in the pyloric stomach of Clarias. Autonomic innervation of the secretory glands is also described and reported herein for the first time for fishes. We also report splanchnic (spinal) innervation of the stomach, submucosal ganglia (that also colocalize with nNOS) and caudal intestine of Clarias. In both fish species, numerous 5HT, ChAT, nNOS and TH‐positive nerve fibres have been observed. These discoveries demonstrate that much more physiological and pharmacological data are needed before a comprehensive model of enteric nervous system control in vertebrates can be developed.
The role of facial microexpression state (FMES) change in the process of conceptual conflict
Authors: Chiu Mei‐Hung , Chou Chin‐Cheng , Wu Wen‐Lung , Liaw Hongming
Published: December 2013

This paper explores whether facial microexpression state (FMES) changes can be used to identify moments of conceptual conflict, one of the pathways to conceptual change. It is known that when the preconditions of conceptual conflicts are met and conceptual conflicts are detected in students, it is then possible for conceptual change to take place. There were 102 university and high school students who were involved in this research, and about 80% of the participants held erroneous preconceptions on the scientific topic chosen. The results showed that FMES changes were detected in the majority of the students who made erroneous predictions as they underwent conceptual conflict. Furthermore, the lack of FMES change was shown to indicate a lowered likelihood of conceptual change, while the presence of FMES change doubled the likelihood of conceptual change. The results confirm that FMES can be useful in determining learners’ awareness of conflicting concepts and their progress towards scientific understanding. Educational implications are discussed.
Phospholipase A2, prostaglandin E2 and polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolic abnormalities in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hon Gloudina M. , Erasmus Rajiv T. , Matsha Tandi E.
Published: December 2013

Aim

Metabolic abnormalities reported in patients with multiple sclerosis include a decrease in cell membrane fatty acid C20:4n‐6. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether this decrease was associated with abnormalities in the prostaglandin E2 pathway in patients with multiple sclerosis.

Methods

The study population included 31 patients with multiple sclerosis and 30 healthy controls. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell membrane fatty acids were measured by gas chromatography, secretory‐phospholipase A2, and prostaglandin E2 with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays and C‐reactive protein with a Beckman auto‐analyser.

Results

Prostaglandin E2 was increased in patients (545.5 pg/mL; quartile range 585.1 pg/mL) and controls (248.2 pg/mL; quartile range 183.6 pg/mL; P = 0.0018). Phospholipase A2 was inversely associated with C20:4n‐6 in patients and controls, respectively (P = 0.0398 and P = 0.0182). C‐reactive protein showed a positive association with phospholipase A2 in patients (P = 0.0006), and an inverse association with prostaglandin E2 in controls (P = 0.0006).

Conclusions

The increase in prostaglandin E2 concentration in plasma from patients with multiple sclerosis was possibly enhanced by the positive association between the C‐reactive protein and phospholipase A2 concentrations present in patients; that is, active stimulation of the prostaglandin E2 pathway, which can possibly explain decreases in membrane n‐6 fatty acid C20:4n‐6 reported in cell membranes from patients. It is not clear from the results of the present study whether this denotes chronic inflammation in patients, but could be expected to contribute to central nervous system damage reported in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Interleukin‐33/suppression of tumorigenicity 2 system: Can it be a future therapeutic target for neuroimmunological disorders?
Authors: Kanda Takashi
Published: December 2013

The interleukin‐33/suppression of tumorigenicity 2 system is now recognized to participate in the development of many autoimmune disorders including multiple sclerosis. Apart from a serum marker of disease activity, interleukin‐33/suppression of tumorigenicity 2 could provide a novel therapeutic regimen in various neuroimmunological disorders including multiple sclerosis.
Clinical and radiographic evaluation of narrow‐ vs. regular‐diameter dental implants: a 3‐year follow‐up. A retrospective study
Authors: Zweers J. , van Doornik A. , Hogendorf E. A. H. , Quirynen M. , Van der Weijden G. A.
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Narrow‐diameter implants (NDIs) are used in severely resorbed mandibles. The reduced implant diameter means a reduction in the total contact surface between the implant and bone. The question arises whether the implant can be sufficiently osseointegrated to withstand loading forces. If not, marginal bone loss can result from overload. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare clinical and radiographic measurements and patient satisfaction of NDIs with those of regular‐diameter implants (RDIs) placed in edentulous patients to support an overdenture via either a ball or a locator connection.

Material and Methods

Retrospectively over a 7‐year period, a total 119 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were selected for this study. The patients received two 3.3‐ or 4.1‐mm‐diameter standard titanium implants in the mandible to support an overdenture. At maintenance examinations after 1 and 3 years, clinical peri‐implant and prosthetic conditions, marginal bone (MB) and patient satisfaction were investigated.

Results

None of the 238 implants were lost during the 3‐year follow‐up period. Overall MB loss was statistically higher in the NDI group when compared with the RDI group. At the site level, a greater MB loss was observed at the distal side of both implant types. Implants with a locator showed significantly greater MB loss (0.38 mm) compared with the implants with a ball attachment (0.14 mm) over the two‐year evaluation period (P = 0.006). Patient satisfaction significantly favoured the NDI (8.3) and the locator attachment (8.6).

Conclusions

The results suggest that during the first three years after implantation, NDIs were associated with more marginal bone loss compared with RDIs. Regardless of implant diameter, the locator attachment showed more marginal bone loss over time compared with the ball attachment.
Feasibility and safety of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for gastric submucosal tumors, including esophagogastric junction tumors
Authors: Hoteya Shu , Haruta Shusuke , Shinohara Hisashi , Yamada Akihiro , Furuhata Tsukasa , Yamashita Satoshi , Kikuchi Daisuke , Mitani Toshifumi , Ogawa Osamu , Matsui Akira , Iizuka Toshiro , Udagawa Harushi , Kaise Mitsuru
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Recently, the use of endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for gastric submucosal tumor (gSMT) and the development of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS) have enabled either preservation of the stomach or minimization of the extent of partial resection. In the present study, the outcomes following the recent introduction of LECS for gSMT are presented. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of LECS for gSMT, including esophagogastric junction (EGJ) SMT.

Methods

LECS is indicated for lesions that have an intragastric growth pattern, or for which fundusectomy can be avoided despite an extragastric growth pattern. We retrospectively evaluated the outcome of LECS carried out in 25 patients including five EGJ SMT.

Results

Surgery was completed achieving an R0 resection rate of 100% with no postoperative complications. Mean tumor sizewas 32.3 ± 13.5 mm and mean resected specimen size was 37.6 ± 13.5 mm. Resection margins were tumor‐free in all cases, with adequate minimum surgical margins, and precise conclusive diagnosis was achieved with perfect operative specimens. Endoscopic confirmation of the EGJ enabled the extent of resection to be minimized and the stomach to be preserved, avoiding fundusectomy. Although there were significant differences in tumor size and resected specimen size between EGJ SMT and non‐EGJ SMT, there were no significant differences in outcomes of the LECS procedure.

Conclusion

LECS is feasible and safe for cases with gSMT including lesions adjacent to the EGJ.
Endoscopic ultrasound description of liver segmentation and anatomy
Authors: Bhatia Vikram , Hijioka Susumu , Hara Kazuo , Mizuno Nobumasa , Imaoka Hiroshi , Yamao Kenji
Published: December 2013

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can demonstrate the detailed anatomy of the liver from the transgastric and transduodenal routes. Most of the liver segments can be imaged with EUS, except the right posterior segments. The intrahepatic vascular landmarks include the major hepatic veins, portal vein radicals, hepatic arterial branches, and the inferior vena cava, and the venosum and teres ligaments are other important intrahepatic landmarks. The liver hilum and gallbladder serve as useful surface landmarks. Deciphering liver segmentation and anatomy by EUS requires orienting the scan planes with these landmarkstructures, and is different from the static cross‐sectional radiological images. Orientation during EUS requires appreciation of the numerous scan planes possible in real‐time, and the direction of scanning from the stomach and duodenal bulb. We describe EUS imaging of the liver with a curved linear probe in a step‐by‐step approach, with the relevant anatomical details, potential applications, and pitfalls of this novel EUS application.
Endoscopically proven case of rapid esophagogastric variceal progression and rupture as a result of portal hypertension with liver sarcoidosis
Authors: Ara Nobuyuki , Iijima Katsunori , Honda Junya , Iwabuchi Toshimitsu , Hatta Waku , Endo Hiroyuki , Koike Tomoyuki , Kimura Osamu , Kondo Yasuteru , Yuki Toyohiko , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: December 2013

Sarcoidosis is a multi‐systemic disease of unknown etiology that results in the development of non‐caseating epithelioid granulomas. The liver is the third most frequently involved organ after the lymph nodes and the lungs. Most cases of liver sarcoidosis do not present with symptoms and involve minimal liver dysfunction, but some cases display progression to portal hypertension and liver cirrhosis, and finally to liver failure. The mechanism and the risk of progression in liver sarcoidosis are still unknown because of the diagnostic difficulty associated with this condition, and because follow‐up examinations can only be done in an invasive manner. Here, we present an informative case of liver sarcoidosis with rapid progression of esophagogastric varices. Four months prior to the definitive diagnosis, no signs of varices were observed on endoscopy, and developmentof esophagogastric varices, rapid progression, and eventual rupture occurred in a short period of time. A liver biopsy, carried out after endoscopic sclerotherapy, revealed that granulomas primarily affected the portal area without fibrotic and cirrhotic changes, which is considered a primary cause of portal hypertension and esophagogastric varices. Following the liver biopsy, the patient was given systemic steroids and is currently receiving outpatient care. Thus, we should consider the possibility that liver sarcoidosis, even in the absence of cirrhotic changes, can cause serious events such as esophagogastric variceal rupture following rapid progression as a result of portal hypertension.
Left Ventricular Endocardial Dysfunction in Patients with Preserved Ejection Fraction after Receiving Anthracycline
Authors: Miyoshi Tatsuya , Tanaka Hidekazu , Kaneko Akihiro , Tatsumi Kazuhiro , Matsumoto Kensuke , Minami Hironobu , Kawai Hiroya , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: December 2013

Background

Anthracycline chemotherapy generates progressive dose‐dependent left ventricular (LV) dysfunction associated with a poor prognosis. Early detection of minor LV myocardial dysfunction caused by the cardiotoxicity of anthracycline is thus important for predicting global LV dysfunction.

Methods

Fifty patients with preserved ejection fraction (all ≥55%) after receiving anthracycline chemotherapy were recruited for this study. Two‐dimensional speckle tracking was used to assess global radial and circumferential strains from mid‐LV short‐axis views and global longitudinal strain from the apical four‐ and two‐chamber view as peak global strain curves. Three‐dimensional (3D) radial, circumferential, and longitudinal myocardial function was quantified as a peak global strain curve using 3D speckle tracking from all 16 LV segments. 3D speckle tracking imaging was used to evaluate LV endocardial area change ratio (area strain) quantified as peak global area strain curve (3D‐GAS) to determine LV endocardial function. Twenty age‐, gender‐, and EF‐matched normal volunteers were studied for comparisons.

Results

Only 3D‐GAS and peak 3D global circumferential strains of the anthracycline group were significantly worse than those of the control group (−43.3 ± 3.1 vs. −45.8 ± 4.3% and −31.6 ± 3.5% vs. −34.4 ± 4.2%, respectively; P = 0.008, P = 0.004) even though global LV systolic and diastolic functions were similar. 3D‐GAS correlated significantly with the cumulative doxorubicin dose (r = 0.316, P = 0.026). It was noteworthy that multivariate analysis showed only 3D‐GAS (β = 0.323, P = 0.025) was independently associated with cumulative doxorubicin dose.

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional speckle tracking area strain was found useful for early detection of minor LV endocardial dysfunction associated with the use of anthracycline, and may thus prove to be clinically useful for predicting global LV dysfunction.
Delayed Blood Pressure Recovery Ratio and Its Relation to Endothelial Function and Left Ventricular Diastolic Function in Prediabetics
Authors: Mahfouz Ragab A. , Dewedar Ashraf , Elawady Waleed , Salem Abdelhakem , Goda Mohamed
Published: December 2013

Background

Endothelial function plays a key role in determining the clinical manifestations of established atherosclerotic lesions and has shown to be associated with suppressed sympathetic tone. Abnormal heart rate recovery (HRR) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) response during recovery has been found to have diagnostic role for detecting cardiovascular risk.

Aim

To investigate whether with abnormal HRR and delayed SBP recovery ratio after exercise could predict endothelial dysfunction in prediabetic subjects.

Methods

Ninety‐two prediabetic patients underwent brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) test and a maximal exercise stress test. Seventy‐eight healthy subjects served as a control group. HRR at 1 minute (HRR1) and SBP recovery ratio (SBPRR3) was defined as the SBP at minute 3 of recovery divided by SBP at peak exercise. Left ventricular diastolic function was assessed utilizing both conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography.

Results

Flow‐mediated dilatation was significantly decreased in prediabetics versus controls (P < 0.0001). Isovolumetric relaxation time and E/E′ were significantly increased in prediabetics (P < 0.01 and <0.001). Delayed SBPRR3 was significantly correlated with impaired endothelial function and (E/E′) in prediabetics (r = 0.62, P < 0.001 and r = 0.56, P < 0.001, respectively). Stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that HRR1 and SBPRR3 were significant predictors of endothelial dysfunction (r = 0.61, r2 = 0.37, P < 0.01 and r = 0.51; r2 = 27; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Abnormal HRR1 and delayed SBP response detected during recovery imply a significant correlation with impaired endothelial function and diastolic dysfunction in prediabetics.
Noninvasive Assessment of Left Atrial Phasic Function in Patients with Hypertension and Diabetes Using Two‐Dimensional Speckle Tracking and Volumetric Parameters
Authors: Liu Yan , Wang Ke , Su Dechun , Cong Tao , Cheng Yunpeng , Zhang Ying , Wu Jian , Sun Yinghui , Shang Zhijuan , Liu Jinqiu , Zhong Lei , Zou Lu , Chitian Changyue , Zhang Xiuyu , Jiang Yinong
Published: December 2013

Objective

To evaluate the left atrial phasic function of hypertensive patients with or without coexisting diabetes using two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE)‐based strain and strain rate imaging and volumetric parameters.

Methods

The study included an isolated hypertension group (HT group) comprising 99 patients, a hypertension and diabetes group (HT + DM group) comprising 65 patients, and 26 age‐matched healthy controls. The 2DSTE‐based strain and strain rate images were studied, and the following parameters were measured: peak left atrial longitudinal strain (LAS‐S), early diastolic (LAS‐E) and late diastolic (LAS‐A) atrial longitudinal strains, and systolic (LASR‐S), early diastolic (LASR‐E) and late diastolic (LASR‐A) strain rates.

Results

The LAS‐S and LASR‐S were lower in the HT group and the HT + DM group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). The LAS‐E and LASR‐E were lower in the HT group (14.9 ± 5.5% and −1.1 ± 0.4/sec, respectively) than in the control group (22.1 ± 8.3% and −1.7 ± 0.6/sec, respectively) (P < 0.001), and they were further depressed in the HT + DM group (12.3 ± 6.3% and −1.0 ± 0.4/sec, respectively) (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in LAS‐A or LASR‐A among the 3 groups (P > 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis revealed that HT and DM were independently related to LAS‐E and LASR‐E.

Conclusions

Hypertension can lead to abnormal left atrial reservoir and conduit functions, and coexisting diabetes can further impair conduit function. 2DSTE‐derived strain and strain rate imaging are sensitive methods for evaluating left atrial phasic function.
Immunoglobulin D myeloma: clinical features and outcome in the era of novel agents
Authors: Zagouri Flora , Kastritis Efstathios , Symeonidis Argiris S. , Giannakoulas Nikolaos , Katodritou Eirini , Delimpasi Sosana , Repousis Panagiotis , Terpos Evangelos , Dimopoulos Meletios A. ,   The Greek Myeloma Study Group
Published: December 2013

Objectives

Immunoglobulin D (IgD) multiple myeloma is an uncommon variant of the disease probably associated with poorer prognosis. However, data on IgD myeloma patients treated in the novel agent era are lacking.

Methods

To assess the frequency and the specific characteristics and evaluate the outcome of patients with IgD myeloma, we analyzed the database of the Greek Myeloma Study Group.

Results

Between January 2000 and December 2012, among the 1239 patients with symptomatic myeloma, 31 (2.5%) were diagnosed with IgD myeloma. The median age of patients with IgD myeloma was 65 yr (range 26–80 yr) versus 68 yr (range 23–96 yr) of all others, and 84% had lambda light chain (vs. 38% of the patients with other subtypes). Patients with IgD myeloma presented more often with features of high‐risk disease, that is, with advanced ISS, high LDH, significant renal dysfunction, and large amounts of Bence Jones proteinuria. Response to primary therapy was similar to other patients, although there was a trend for better quality of responses in patients with IgD myeloma. The median survival of these patients was 51.5 months versus 50.7 months for patients of other subtypes. In a multivariate model to adjust for differences in prognostic features, IgD myeloma was not associated with a different prognosis.

Conclusion

The incidence of IgD myeloma is 2.5%. Although patients with IgD myeloma present more often with high‐risk features, their outcome in the era of novel agents is similar to that of patients with other myeloma subtypes.
Body size distributions at community, regional or taxonomic scales do not predict the direction of trait‐driven diversification in snakes in the United States
Authors: Burbrink Frank T. , Myers Edward A.
Published: December 2013

Aim

We determine whether trait‐driven diversification yields similar body size distributions for snakes in local, regional and phylogenetic assemblages.

Location

United States, North America.

Methods

Using total length and mass, we examine body size frequency distributions (BSFD) across 79 sites and respective biomes to determine if these areas represent random subsamples from the source pools of taxon body sizes. Using QuaSSE, we determine if the most probable model of trait‐driven diversification in the three most common groups of snakes in North America, the ratsnakes, pitvipers and watersnakes, is similar to the predicted regional BSFD.

Results

BSFD of snakes at the community, biome, regional and clade scales show symmetric distributions of body size. These patterns may simply be generated from random statistical subsampling. Speciation rates are not highest at or near the modal body size and simulations show that linear trait‐driven models can still yield highly symmetric distributions of body size.

Main conclusions

In this study region, processes such as competition due to size do not alter BSFD from one scale to the other. It is likely that rates of speciation are not highest at the mode in snakes and trait‐driven diversification is not likely to account for a regional pool of body sizes from which local communities are drawn, although persistence of modal body sizes through time could yield regional BSFD.
Thrombin generation as objective parameter of treatment response in patients with severe haemophilia A and high‐titre inhibitors
Authors: Luna‐Záizar H. , Beltrán‐Miranda C. P. , Esparza‐Flores M. A. , Soto‐Padilla J. , Bergés‐García A. , Rodríguez‐Zepeda M. D. C. , Pompa‐Garza M. T. , Jaloma‐Cruz A. R.
Published: December 2013

In Mexico, 15% of haemophilia A (HA) patients develop inhibitory alloantibodies in response to replacement therapy with factor VIII (FVIII), requiring bypass therapy such as activated prothrombin complex concentrate (APCC). Because bypass therapy has not been broadly available in Mexico even in recent years, this study aimed to evaluate the thrombin generation assay (TGA) in assessing the response to FVIII or APCC treatment in patients with severe HA positive to inhibitors. We studied 189 patients with severe HA. Clinical severity was verified by one‐stage APTT‐based clotting assay. Inhibitors to FVIII were investigated by the Nijmegen–Bethesda (N–B) method, and type of inhibition was assessed through serial plasma dilutions. Thrombin generation was measured with the calibrated automated thrombogram in inhibitor‐positive plasmas previously spiked and incubated with FVIII or APCC. Data were analysed using anova, Student or Fisher's exact tests. We detected 47 (24.9%) subjects with high‐titre (5–1700 N–B U mL−1) and 25 (13.2%) subjects with low‐titre inhibitor antibodies (0.6–4.7 N–B U mL−1). We found an association between kinetic behaviour and clinical response to FVIII (P = 0.0049) or vs. FVIII response evaluated with TGA (P = 0.0007). Global concordance between clinical and in vitro response was 70%. By evaluating the capacity of thrombin formation in a plasma sample, TGA predicts the response to FVIII or APCC therapy and allows individual optimization of resources in patients with severe HA and high‐titre inhibitors. The inhibition pattern of the antibodies to FVIII:C correlated with the TGA parameters and showed an association with the clinical response to FVIII.
Production of functional coagulation factor VIII from iPSCs using a lentiviral vector
Authors: Kashiwakura Y. , Ohmori T. , Mimuro J. , Madoiwa S. , Inoue M. , Hasegawa M. , Ozawa K. , Sakata Y.
Published: December 2013

The use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as an autologous cell source has shed new light on cell replacement therapy with respect to the treatment of numerous hereditary disorders. We focused on the use of iPSCs for cell‐based therapy of haemophilia. We generated iPSCs from mesenchymal stem cells that had been isolated from C57BL/6 mice. The mouse iPSCs were generated through the induction of four transcription factor genes Oct3/4, Klf‐4, Sox‐2 and c‐Myc. The derived iPSCs released functional coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) following transduction with a simian immunodeficiency virus vector. The subcutaneous transplantation of iPSCs expressing FVIII into nude mice resulted in teratoma formation, and significantly increased plasma levels of FVIII. The plasma concentration of FVIII was at levels appropriate for human therapy at 2–4 weeks post transplantation. Our data suggest that iPSCs could be an attractive and prospective autologous cell source for the production of coagulation factor, and that engineered iPSCs expressing coagulation factor might provide a cell‐based therapeutic strategy appropriate for haemophilia.
Physical and mental quality of life in adult patients with haemophilia in Belgium: the impact of financial issues
Authors: Carvalhosa A. M. , Henrard S. , Lambert C. , Hermans C.
Published: December 2013

In Belgium, where haemophilia affects approximately 1:7000 people (2011), data on patients' quality of life (QoL) is scarce. This project aims to assess physical and mental QoL (P‐QoL and M‐QoL) simultaneously, and to analyse the influence of different variables on these two aspects of QoL. After Ethics Committee approval, we contacted 84 adult haemophilia A (HA) and haemophilia B (HB) patients, without current inhibitors, on replacement therapy (on‐demand or secondary prophylaxis), regularly followed up at our comprehensive treatment centre. Seventy‐one (n = 59 HA, n = 12 HB) replied to our questionnaire, which included the SF36v2 QoL assessment forms. We analysed two groups of variables: one including variables previously associated with decreased QoL, and another including variables with unclear impact on QoL (e.g. patients' understanding of haemophilia‐related issues, economical concerns). In our population (mean ± SD age: 45.2 ± 14.7 years old), P‐QoL appeared more reduced than M‐QoL. P‐QoL was strongly influenced by the number of arthropathies while M‐QoL was primarily affected by patients' concern of personal costs due to haemophilia. Among this latter group, having knowledge of insurance coverage had a positive impact on M‐QoL. Scores did not depend on haemophilia type. QoL was impaired in our haemophilia patients. A simultaneous assessment of P‐QoL and M‐QoL confirmed the benefit of primary prophylaxis in P‐QoL, while originally pointing out the major burden of patients' concerns and poor understanding of haemophilia‐related economical issues on their M‐QoL. This might become a particularly challenging issue in times of financial crisis.
A mathematical model of the colon crypt capturing compositional dynamic interactions between cell types
Authors: Smallbone Kieran , Corfe Bernard M.
Published: December 2013

Models of the development and early progression of colorectal cancer are based upon understanding the cycle of stem cell turnover, proliferation, differentiation and death. Existing crypt compartmental models feature a linear pathway of cell types, with little regulatory mechanism. Previous work has shown that there are perturbations in the enteroendocrine cell population of macroscopically normal crypts, a compartment not included in existing models. We show that existing models do not adequately recapitulate the dynamics of cell fate pathways in the crypt. We report the progressive development, iterative testing and fitting of a developed compartmental model with additional cell types, and which includes feedback mechanisms and cross‐regulatory mechanisms between cell types. The fitting of the model to existing data sets suggests a need to invoke cross‐talk between cell types as a feature of colon crypt cycle models.
Un modèle d'analyse du travail informel dans les économies en transition: le cas de l'Ukraine
Authors: COMMANDER Simon , ISACHENKOVA Natalia , RODIONOVA Yulia
Published: December 2013

Les économies en transition de l'ex‐Union soviétique connaissent une explosion de l'emploi informel depuis les années 1990. Selon les auteurs, ce phénomène s'explique par la structure de la rémunération du travail héritée de la planification centralisée. Leur modèle théorique est centré sur les choix entre travail à plein temps ou à temps partiel et entre activité formelle, informelle ou mixte. Considérant la probabilité d'être sanctionné en cas d'évasion fiscale et les avantages non monétaires associés au travail dans les entreprises publiques ou privatisées, ils concluent que ces avantages incitent les travailleurs à combiner emploi formel et informel; hypothèse confirmée par l'analyse des données de l'Enquête longitudinale de suivi en Ukraine.
Sous‐traitance et évitement de la relation d'emploi: les comportements de substitution des entreprises industrielles en France entre 1984 et 2003
Authors: PERRAUDIN Corinne , THÈVENOT Nadine , VALENTIN Julie
Published: December 2013

A partir d'une base de données exhaustive des entreprises de 20 salariés et plus de l'industrie française, les auteurs quantifient le recours à la sous‐traitance et mettent en lumière sa généralisation depuis le milieu des années 1980, ainsi que la substitution du travail externe au travail interne à l'entreprise qui en découle. L'analyse empirique des motifs du recours à la sous‐traitance permet de conclure à des comportements de contournement des effets de la relation d'emploi et d'évitement des obligations de l'employeur en droit du travail.
Intégration des travailleurs pour compte propre au système de prévoyance sociale du Brésil
Authors: NAGAMINE COSTANZI Rogério , DUARTE BARBOSA Edvaldo , DA SILVA BICHARA Julimar
Published: December 2013

Au Brésil, les travailleurs pour compte propre sont largement exclus du système de prévoyance sociale. Les auteurs présentent deux programmes, lancés dans les années 2000, qui ont donné de bons résultats quant à l'intégration de ces travailleurs au secteur formel et quant à leur protection. Ces programmes comprennent des procédures simplifiées de déclarations des avantages commerciaux, comme l'accès au crédit et l'émission de factures, et un niveau de cotisation adapté à la capacité contributive des petits entrepreneurs et des travailleurs indépendants. Des données chiffrées attestent de leur efficacité et de la possibilité de les adapter à d'autres contextes.
Travail pour compte propre et régime de contribution unique en Uruguay
Authors: AMARANTE Verónica , PERAZZO Ivone
Published: December 2013

L'intégration des travailleurs pour compte propre au système de protection sociale est un défi de première grandeur en Amérique latine. En 2007, l'Uruguay a réformé son régime spécifique de contribution unique à l'intention de ces travailleurs, permettant à une proportion significative d'entre eux d'y adhérer. Les auteures analysent les caractéristiques et les conditions de travail de cette catégorie en Uruguay, entre 2000 et 2010, ainsi que l'évolution du niveau de cotisation à la sécurité sociale associée à la réforme du régime de contribution unique, de même que le potentiel d'intégration de ce dernier.
Insulin sensitivity and brain reward activation in overweight Hispanic girls: a pilot study
Authors: Adam T. C. , Tsao S. , Page K. A. , Hu H. , Hasson R. E. , Goran M. I.
Published: December 2013

Background

Insulin resistance is a link between obesity and the associated disease risk. In addition to its role as an energy regulatory signal to the hypothalamus, insulin also modulates food reward.

Objective

To examine the relationship of insulin sensitivity (SI) and fasting insulin with cerebral activation in response to food and non‐food cues in children.

Methods

Twelve overweight Hispanic girls (age: 8–11) participated in two study visits, a frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test and a functional neuroimaging session (GE HDxt 3.0Tesla) with visual stimulation tasks. Blocks of images (high calorie [HC], low calorie [LC] and non‐food [NF]) were presented in randomized order.

Results

Comparing HC with NF, SI was inversely associated with activation in the anterior cingulate (r2 = 0.65; P < 0.05), the insula (r2 = 0.69; P < 0.05), the orbitofrontal cortex (r2 = 0.74; P < 0.05), and the frontal and rolandic operculum (r2 = 0.76; P < 0.001). Associations remained significant after adjustment for body mass index. Association of fasting insulin and cerebral activation disappeared after adjustment for waist circumference.

Conclusion

In addition to weight loss, insulin sensitivity may pose an important target to regulate neural responses to food cues in the prevention of excessive weight gain.
Weight discrimination in the workplace: a meta‐analytic examination of the relationship between weight and work‐related outcomes
Authors: Vanhove Adam , Gordon Randall A.
Published: December 2013

This study provides a meta‐analytic review of correlational research examining the relationship between job incumbent/applicant weight and work‐related outcomes. Given the differences between correlational and experimental research, our findings show an understandably weaker relationship between weight and work‐related outcomes than has been found in past meta‐analyses of the experimental research. However, our findings do support the directionality of (a) the overall effect of weight on work‐related outcomes, and (b) the moderating role of job incumbent/applicant sex and the type of work‐related outcome found in past meta‐analyses of experimental research. In addition, this review provides initial meta‐analytic evidence for the roles of race, the sex–race interaction, and age as moderators of the relationship between weight and work‐related outcomes.
Assessment of buccal aerosolized midazolam for pediatric conscious sedation
Authors: Chopra Radhika , Marwaha Mohita
Published: December 2013

Aim

To assess the acceptance and efficacy of aerosolized midazolam through buccal mucosa for conscious sedation.

Methods

Thirty‐five children aged 2–6 years with Grade I and II Frankl behavior rating scale were selected for various dental procedures under local anesthesia. Initially behavior‐shaping procedures were used and Houpt behavior scoring was recorded. Thereafter, midazolam was administered using a spray through buccal mucosa and scores for acceptance of drug and behavior after sedation were recorded. The data were compiled and a Wilcoxon signed ranks test was used to assess the difference in behavior before and after the sedation.

Results

Eighty‐three percent of the patients accepted the drug without any complaint. A statistically significant improvement was seen in the Houpt scores before and after drug administration (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Buccal aerosolized midazolam can be used successfully for pediatric conscious sedation.
Cytokine profile in the gingival crevicular fluid of rheumatoid arthritis patients with chronic periodontitis
Authors: Javed Fawad , Ahmed Hameeda B. , Mikami Toshinari , Almas Khalid , Romanos Georgios E. , Al‐Hezaimi Khalid
Published: December 2013

The aim was to assess the cytokine profile in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with chronic periodontitis (CP). Databases were searched from 1991 to August 2013 using a combination of various keywords. Eight studies were included. The GCF concentrations of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐4, IL‐10, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐8, MMP‐13 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) were reported to be higher in patients with RA than in healthy controls (HC) without CP. In one study, TNF‐α levels in GCF were significantly higher in HC than in RA patients receiving anti‐TNF‐α therapy. One study reported no significant difference in GCF TNF‐α levels among RA patients and HC regardless of anti‐TNF‐α therapy. One study reported no difference in IL‐1β and prostaglandin E2 levels among RA patients and HC with CP. Raised levels of proinflammatory cytokines are exhibited in the GCF of RA patients with CP.
Knowledge of and attitudes towards HIV/AIDS: a survey among dental students in Ajman, UAE
Authors: Premadasa Gamini , Sadek Maha , Ellepola Arjuna , Sreedharan Jayadevan , Muttappallymyalil Jayakumary
Published: December 2013

Aim

Encounters between dentists and patients with HIV/AIDS are bound to rise due to increased prevalence and emerging new treatments. This study assessed dental students' knowledge about transmission and oral manifestations of HIV/AIDS, and their attitudes towards patients regarding obligations to treat.

Methods

Out of 109 students in 4 years of a 6‐year dental undergraduate program, 106 responded to a questionnaire on knowledge of and attitudes towards HIV/AIDS. Knowledge and attitude scores were analyzed with Kruskal–Wallis one‐way anova and the gender differences with the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

The median score for students' overall knowledge was 39.5 (67%; maximum possible 59). The median knowledge scores for males and females were 38 and 40 respectively, although the difference was not statistically significant. The knowledge levels in Year 4 (42.5 ± 4.7), Year 3 (44 ± 6.5), and Year 2 (42 ± 5.8), were similar but significantly higher than in Year 1 (33 ± 7.9; P < 0.01). The median attitude score was 14 out of 24, with no significant differences within genders and years of study. Although the level of knowledge of the senior students was higher than that of the first years, the negative attitudes remained largely unchanged.

Conclusions

Appropriate educational programs may alter the misconceptions and the negative attitudes.
Physiological traits contributed to the recent increase in yield potential of winter wheat from Henan Province, China
Authors: Zhou Bangwei , Sanz‐Sáez Álvaro , Elazab Abdelhalim , Shen Tianmin , Sánchez‐Bragado Rut , Bort Jordi , Serret Maria Dolors , Araus José Luis
Published: December 2013

This experiment aims to test the traits responsible for the increase in yield potential of winter wheat released in Henan Province, China. Seven established cultivars released in the last 20 years and three advanced lines were assayed. The results showed that grain yield was positively correlated with harvest index (HI), kernel number per square meter, and aboveground biomass. In addition, the HI and aboveground biomass showed an increasing trend with the year of release. Therefore, we can conclude that bread wheat breeding advances during recent decades in Henan Province, China, have been achieved through an increase in HI, kernel number per square meter, and aboveground biomass. A higher δ13C seems also to be involved in these advances, which suggests a progressive improvement in constitutive water use efficiency not associated with a trend towards lower stomatal conductance in the most recent genotypes. However, genetic advance does not appear related to changes in photosynthesis rates on area basis when measured in the flag leaf or the spike, but only to a higher, whole‐spike photosynthesis. Results also indirectly support the concept that under potential yield conditions, the spike contributed more than the flag leaf to kernel formation.