bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of homosexual patients’ access to primary health care services in Umlazi, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Cele Nokulunga H. , Sibiya Maureen N. , Sokhela Dudu G.
Published: September 2015

Background: Homosexual patients are affected by social factors in their environment, and as a result may not have easy access to existing health care services. Prejudice against homosexuality and homosexual patients remains a barrier to them seeking appropriate healthcare. The concern is that lesbians and gays might delay or avoid seeking health care when they need it because of past discrimination or perceived homophobia within the health care thereby putting their health at risk.Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of homosexual patients utilising primary health care (PHC) services in Umlazi in the province ofKwaZulu-Natal (KZN).Method: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive study was conducted which was contextual innature. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 participants. The findings of this study were analysed using content analysis.Results: Two major themes emerged from the data analysis, namely, prejudice against homosexual patients by health care providers and other patients at the primary health care facilities, and, homophobic behaviour from primary health care personnel.Conclusion: Participants experienced prejudice and homophobic behaviour in the course of utilising PHC clinics in Umlazi, which created a barrier to their utilisation of health services located there. Nursing education institutions, in collaboration with the National Department of Health, should introduce homosexuality and anti-homophobia education programmes during the pre-service and in-service education period. Such programmes will help to familiarise health care providers with the health care needs of homosexual patients and may decrease homophobic attitudes.
Martin Luther en teologiebeoefening in die toekoms
Authors: Van Wyk I.W.C.
Published: September 2015

Martin Luther and doing theology in the future. The Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa prides itself for the fact that she has always appreciated the German-Lutheran tradition. The Reformed Theological College has for 15 years contributed to the appreciation of this tradition. This article wants to encourage the new leadership to keep this legacy alive. The main aspects of Luther’s theology are explained. These aspects are: prayer (oratio), meditation (meditatio), constitation (tentatio), grace of the Spirit (gratia Spiritus), exegesis (sedulalectio), and the use of other sciences in understanding the Bible (bonarum atrium cognitia). Attention is also given to the subject-matter of Theology as well as the notion of humbleness.
The use of the job enrichment technique for decision-making in higher education: The case of the Philippines
Authors: Adeyemo Kolawole Samuel , Sehoole Chika , Cueno Constancia G.
Published: September 2015

Orientation: This article provides an explorative analysis of the use of the job enrichment technique for decision-making in higher education in the Philippines.Research purpose: The profile of administrators in charge of decision-making was investigated in terms of their level of familiarity with, and use of, this technique in achieving the goals of enriching jobs, retaining staff and ensuring job-motivation in higher education.Motivation for the study: Given the increasingly competitive higher education environment in which higher education employees, including academics, work, the pressure on their performance, and their search for ideal working conditions, it is important to measure the impact of the job enrichment technique on employee and higher education organisations.Research design, approach and method: The study used a quantitative method. The respondents of this study consisted of 206 administrators. Spearman Rank, Correlation Coefficient, Point Bi serial and Chi-square were used to analyse the relationships between the demographic characteristics and job enrichment technique. Multiple Regression Coefficient was used to predict job enrichment.Main findings: The findings suggest that educational attainment and experience are the most important factors for predicting success as an administrator in higher education.Practical and managerial implications: Job enrichment should not only focus on the knowledge, experience and skills of administrators, but should be extended to encompass the context and working conditions of employees.Contribution: In the context of fiscal austerity measures that result in fewer resources becoming available for higher education, it is important to have competent decision-makers who are able to motivate staff.
Chest physiotherapy in children with acute bacterial pneumonia
Authors: Corten Lieselotte , Jelsma Jennifer , Morrow Brenda M.
Published: September 2015

Background: Pneumonia is the single leading cause of death in children younger than 5 years of age. Chest physiotherapy is often prescribed as an additional therapy in children with pneumonia. Different chest physiotherapy techniques are available that aim to improve airway clearance, gas exchange and reduce the work of breathing. However, it is unclear if these techniques are effective in this population.Objective: The present review aimed to determine the efficacy of different chest physiotherapy techniques compared with no physiotherapy or other chest physiotherapy treatments in hospitalised children with bacterial pneumonia.Method: Six electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, PEDro, CINAHL and Africa-wide information), clinicaltrials.gov and pactr.org were searched for eligible studies.Results: Two randomised controlled trials and one ongoing study were identified. Neither completed trial reported differences between the control and intervention groups, although one study reported a longer duration of coughing (p = 0.04) and rhonchi (p = 0.03) in the intervention group.Conclusion: Because of the limited number of included articles and different presentations of outcome measures, we could not reject or accept chest physiotherapy as either an effective or harmful treatment option in this population.
Extracellular Matrix and Integrins in Embryonic Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Wang Han , Luo Xie , Leighton Jake
Published: September 2015

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are pluripotent cells with great therapeutic potentials. The in vitro differentiation of ESC was designed by recapitulating embryogenesis. Significant progress has been made to improve the in vitro differentiation protocols by toning soluble maintenance factors. However, more robust methods for lineage-specific differentiation and maturation are still under development. Considering the complexity of in vivo embryogenesis environment, extracellular matrix (ECM) cues should be considered besides growth factor cues. ECM proteins bind to cells and act as ligands of integrin receptors on cell surfaces. Here, we summarize the role of the ECM and integrins in the formation of three germ layer progenies. Various ECM–integrin interactions were found, facilitating differentiation toward definitive endoderm, hepatocyte-like cells, pancreatic beta cells, early mesodermal progenitors, cardiomyocytes, neuroectoderm lineages, and epidermal cells, such as keratinocytes and melanocytes. In the future, ECM combinations for the optimal ESC differentiation environment will require substantial study.
Ultrasound Features for Determining the Risk of Malignancy in Unilocular-Solid Adnexal Masses in Premenopausal Women without Ascites and/or Carcinomatosis
Authors: Alcázar Juan Luis , Utrilla-Layna Jesús , Juez Leire , Peces Almudena , Martinez-Astorquiza Corral Txanton , Orozco Rodrigo , Caparros María
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To assess what clinical and ultrasound features could be most helpful for discriminating benign from malignant unilocular cysts with solid components in premenopausal women with no signs of ascites or carcinomatosis.

Materials and methods

Retrospective study comprising 91 women with preoperative diagnosis of unilocular-solid cyst that underwent surgical removal. The following variables were assessed: age, complaints at presentation, bilaterality, mean size of the lesion, number of papillary projections, size of solid component, surface of solid component (smooth or irregular), amount of color within solid component (no flow, minimal flow, moderate flow, abundant flow). Definitive histopathological diagnosis was used as gold standard. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify which variables were independent predictors of malignancy and their odds ratios (OR).

Results

Malignant lesions had significantly larger tumor size, more number of solid components, larger size of solid component, more frequency of irregular surface in the solid component and more frequent moderate or abundant vascularization within the solid component. Logistic regression analysis identified amount of color (OR: 48.7), solid component's surface (OR: 29.1) and mean size of the lesion (OR: 1.58) as independent predictors for malignancy.

Conclusion

Tumor size, irregular surface and the presence of moderate or abundant color score within the solid component are the features more frequently associated to malignancy in unilocular-solid adnexal cysts in premenopausal women.

How to cite this article

Juez L, Peces A, Corral TMA, Orozco R, Utrilla-Layna J, Caparros M, Alcazar JL. Ultrasound Features for Determining the Risk of Malignancy in Unilocular- Solid Adnexal Masses in Premenopausal Women without Ascites and/or Carcinomatosis. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015;9(2):112-117.
Predominant Causes of Metabolic Syndrome in Adolescents vs Adults of Northwest India
Authors: Bhansali Anil , Saini Abhimanyu , Sahni Daisy
Published: September 2015

Prevalence and distribution of metabolic syndrome was studied among 167 adolescents (aged 12—17 years) and 361 adults (aged 18—80 years) of Chandigarh zone of northwest India. Measurements of anthropometric variables, blood pressure, triglycerides (TGs), high-density lipoproteins and fasting blood glucose were taken. The metabolic syndrome was examined using criteria reported by national cholesterol education program adult treatment panel III. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 9% in adolescents and 40.7% in adults. No gender differences in its incidence were noted in adolescents or adults. In adolescents, the contribution of TGs was highest, high blood pressure and low high-density lipoprotein were of about equal significance as risk factors. The least common risk factors were fasting blood sugar and waist circumference. In adults, abdominal obesity was the most common inconsistent factor among the subjects having metabolic syndrome. Efforts should be made to screen out the metabolic syndrome positive subjects, as it is one of leading risk factors of cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus.

How to cite this article

Saini A, Sahni D, Bhansali A. Predominant Causes of Metabolic Syndrome in Adolescents vs Adults of Northwest India. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2015;49(3):121-125.
Effect of Periodontal Diseases on Pregnancy
Authors: Suri Varun , Singla Rimpi
Published: September 2015

Pregnancy is a unique physiological state that affects almost all the organs, because of changes in the hormonal milieu meant to support the pregnancy. These changes, generally reversible after delivery, are sometimes not without adverse effects. Recent upsurge in the interest in periodontal disease in pregnancy is attributed to association between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcome. Periodontal diseases are a group of infections and conditions that cause inflammation of the gingiva and the surrounding structures, which leads to destruction of the supporting tooth structures. Periodontal infections are predominantly caused by Gram-negative bacteriae that induce local and systemic elevations of proinflammatory cytokines. Transient bacteremia that occurs due to high vascularity of the periodontal tissue may lead to direct bacterial invasion of the fetoplacental unit. The release of toxic products incites host's response and triggers an inflammatory response. As a source of subclinical and persistent infection along with the cascade of systemic inflammatory responses and immune-mediated injury, periodontitis puts the pregnancy at high risk. Evidence for and against association between oral diseases and adverse pregnancy outcome comes from cross-sectional studies and a few trials. Like any other association of obstetric outcome with systemic diseases, this one is also a subject of debate. We reviewed the studies providing evidence for and against effect of periodontal diseases on pregnancy. We found that different investigators have used different parameters to define periodontal disease, hence different results. Larger randomized controlled trials with uniform definitions of disease and outcome are needed to arrive at a definite conclusion.

How to cite this article

Suri V, Singla R. Effect of Periodontal Diseases on Pregnancy. J Postgrad Med Edu Res 2015;49(3): 132-138.
Associations between Periodontal Disease Parameters and Coronary Heart Disease in Greek Adults: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Chrysanthakopoulos Nikolaos Andreas , Oikonomou Aggelos Antonios , Chrysanthakopoulos Panagiotis Andreas
Published: September 2015

Aim

Several forms of periodontal disease have been associated with the development of coronary heart disease. The current retrospective study was conducted to investigate the possible relationship between periodontal disease parameters and defined coronary heart disease (CHD) in Greek adult patients.

Materials and methods

The study sample consisted of 880 individuals, 400 males and 480 females, aged 40 to 78 years. Data were collected by means of an interviewer administered questionnaire and an oral clinical examination. Statistical analysis of the questionnaire items was performed by using multiple regression analysis model in order to assess possible associations between coronary heart disease as dependent variable and epidemiological variables, biomarkers and periodontal disease parameters as independent variables.

Results

The occurrence of hypertension (OR = 0.01, 95% CI = 0.09-1.33), high level of triglycerides (OR = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.06-2.27) and total cholesterol (OR = 0.08, 95% CI = 0.07- 1.27), low level of high-density lipoprotein (OR = 0.12, 95% CI = 0.09-3.70) and smoking (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 0.38-8.88) were significantly associated with the presence of coronary heart disease, whereas the periodontal parameters examined were not associated with the occurrence of it.

Conclusion

No associations were observed between periodontal disease parameters and defined coronary heart disease. However, the recorded associations strengthen the role of hypertension, lipids and smoking as causative risk factors of coronary heart disease.

How to cite this article

Chrysanthakopoulos NA, Oikonomou AA, Chrysanthakopoulos PA, Saini R. Associations between Periodontal Disease Parameters and Coronary Heart Disease in Greek Adults: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):4-10.
Sedation of Uncooperative Pediatric Dental Patients
Authors: Ballini Andrea , Cantore Stefania
Published: September 2015

The approach to managing the behavior of children in the dental environment must be based on empathy with a child in order to understand why the child is distressed, anxious or afraid.

Any dentist treating children needs a spectrum of behavioral techniques from the simplest—tell and show all the way through to a full general anesthetic. Its use is indicated in specific situations and used only when appropriate.

On this basis, the caring dentist discusses with the parent the likely need for various behavioral techniques in the child's management. In this study, we show our experience with oral and nasal sedation in a group of pediatric uncooperative dental patients.

How to cite this article: Cantore S, Ballini A, Saini R. Sedation of Uncooperative Pediatric Dental Patients. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):29-32.
A Novel Technique to restore Anterior Esthetics with Cast Partial Denture
Authors: Arora Himanshu , Bhat Bala Saraswati , Sharma Deeksha
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To overcome the dilemma of fabricating a cast partial denture in patient with missing maxillary anterior teeth.

Materials and methods

A round rest distal depression clasp is used as an esthetic alternative to a conventional clasp for maxillary anterior teeth serving as abutments for a removable partial denture

How to cite this article

Bhat BS, Sharma D, Arora H. A Novel Technique to restore Anterior Esthetics with Cast Partial Denture. Int J Experiment Dent Sci 2015;4(1):62-64.
The acquisition of the Dutch discourse particle wel
Authors: Hogeweg Lotte , van Gerrevink Richard
Published: September 2015

Dutch is known for its large inventory of discourse particles. Discourse particles are very frequent and highly important in conversation. Yet, not much research has been conducted on how children acquire them. In this paper we focus on the acquisition of the Dutch discourse particle wel. In earlier work, it was argued that despite the apparent diversity of the different uses of the particle wel, it has a core meaning, namely that it functions as a denial of an implicit or explicit negation in the context. In this paper we show that this core meaning is also reflected in the acquisition pattern of wel by Dutch children. Despite the fact that the overwhelming majority of the occurrences of wel are not used as a response to an explicit negation, children seem to acquire wel as the positive counterpart of niet ‘not’.
Age structure, carbonate production and shell loss rate in an Early Miocene reef of the giant oyster Crassostrea gryphoides
Authors: Harzhauser M. , Djuricic A. , Mandic O. , Neubauer T. A. , Zuschin M. , Pfeifer N.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. We present the first analysis of population structure and cohort distribution in a fossil oyster reef based on more than 1121 shells of the giant oyster Crassostrea gryphoides (Schlotheim, 1813). Data derive from Terrestrial Laser Scanning of a Lower Miocene shell bed covering 459 m2. Within two transects, individual shells were manually outlined on a digital surface model and cross-checked based on high-resolution orthophotos, resulting in accurate information on center line length and area of exposed shell surface. A growth model was calculated, revealing this species as the fastest growing and largest Crassostrea known so far. Non-normal distribution of size, area and age data hints at the presence of at least four distinct recruitment cohorts. The rapid decline of frequency amplitudes with age is interpreted to be a function of mortality and shell loss. The calculated shell half-lives range around few years, indicating that oyster reefs were geologically short-lived structures, which could have been fully degraded on a decadal scale. Crassostrea gryphoides reefs were widespread and common along the Miocene circum-Tethyan coasts. Given its enormous growth performance of ~ 150 g carbonate per year this species has been an important carbonate producer in estuarine settings. Yet, the rapid shell loss impeded the formation of stable structures comparable to coral reefs.
Improving estimations of greenhouse gas transfer velocities by atmosphere–ocean couplers in Earth-System and regional models
Authors: Vieira V. M. N. C. S. , Sahlée E. , Jurus P. , Clementi E. , Pettersson H. , Mateus M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Earth-System and regional models, forecasting climate change and its impacts, simulate atmosphere–ocean gas exchanges using classical yet too simple generalizations relying on wind speed as the sole mediator while neglecting factors as sea-surface agitation, atmospheric stability, current drag with the bottom, rain and surfactants. These were proved fundamental for accurate estimates, particularly in the coastal ocean, where a significant part of the atmosphere–ocean greenhouse gas exchanges occurs. We include several of these factors in a customizable algorithm proposed for the basis of novel couplers of the atmospheric and oceanographic model components. We tested performances with measured and simulated data from the European coastal ocean, having found our algorithm to forecast greenhouse gas exchanges largely different from the forecasted by the generalization currently in use. Our algorithm allows calculus vectorization and parallel processing, improving computational speed roughly 12× in a single cpu core, an essential feature for Earth-System models applications.
Calculations of the integral invariant coordinates I and L* in the magnetosphere and mapping of the regions where I is conserved, using a particle tracer (ptr3D v2.0), LANL*, SPENVIS, and IRBEM
Authors: Konstantinidis K. , Sarris T.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The integral invariant coordinate I and Roederer's L or L* are proxies for the second and third adiabatic invariants, respectively, that characterize charged particle motion in a magnetic field. Their usefulness lies in the fact that they are expressed in more instructive ways than their counterparts: I is equivalent to the path length of the particle motion between two mirror points, whereas L*, although dimensionless, is equivalent to the distance from the center of the Earth to the equatorial point of a given field line, in units of Earth radii, in the simplified case of a dipole magnetic field. However, care should be taken when calculating the above invariants, as the assumption of their conservation is not valid everywhere in the Earth's magnetosphere. This is not clearly stated in state-of-the-art models that are widely used for the calculation of these invariants. The purpose of this work is thus to investigate where in the near-Earth magnetosphere we can safely calculate I and L* with tools with widespread use in the field of space physics, for various magnetospheric conditions and particle initial conditions. More particularly, in this paper we compare the values of I and L* as calculated using LANL*, an artificial neural network developed at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, SPENVIS, a space environment online tool, IRBEM, a software library dedicated to radiation belt modeling, and ptr3D, a 3-D particle tracing code that was developed for this study. We then attempt to quantify the variations between the calculations of I and L* of those models. The deviation between the results given by the models depends on particle initial position, pitch angle and magnetospheric conditions. Using the ptr3D v2.0 particle tracer we map the areas in the Earth's magnetosphere where I and L* can be assumed to be conserved by monitoring the constancy of I for energetic protons propagating forwards and backwards in time. These areas are found to be centered on the noon area, and their size also depends on particle initial position, pitch angle and magnetospheric conditions.
University Experiences and Satisfaction of Vietnamese University Students
Authors: Duong Quang Minh
Published: September 2015

Student satisfaction is an important part of the effort to market higher education successfully and learning programs, and an important factor in measuring the quality of learning approach. This study explored the student satisfaction in Vietnamese higher education, and how student satisfaction was affected by personal and university experience variables. A quantitative research method was used in the study; out of the 618 third-year students of 24 departments and faculties at in the University of Social Sciences and Humanities - Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City responded to the study and were study participants. The findings of this study show that students were moderately satisfied with their environment on campus. The study also shows that of university experiences had significant positive effects and personal variable had significant negative effects on student satisfaction. 
Wear behavior of oxidized Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb (at. %), Ti-6Al-4V and Cp-Ti under dry and lubricated conditions
Authors: Ramos-Saenz Carlos R. , Sundaram Paul A.
Published: September 2015

Gamma titanium aluminide (gamma-TiAl) is a titanium alloy which contains no vanadium and appears to have potential for biomedical applications such as joint prostheses. The tribomechanical properties of Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb (at. %) (gamma-TiAl) subjected to oxidation in air at 500°C and 800°C were determined by standard wear tests using a hardened stainless steel (SS) pin in a linearly reciprocating mode under both dry and lubricated (Ringer’s solution) media. Similar properties for CP-Ti and Ti-6Al-4V were measured for comparison.  The lowest mean mass loss was obtained for oxidized gamma-TiAl alloy indicating excellent wear resistance. The dominant wear mechanism on all the Ti alloy samples was abrasion.  The oxidation temperature had a minimal effect on the wear of gamma-TiAl but was significant for the other two alloys.
Upgrading Efficiency and Behavior: Electricity Savings from Residential Weatherization Programs
Authors: Zivin Joshua Graff , Novan Kevin
Published: September 2015

Residential weatherization programs have become a major component of U.S. energy policy. Through these programs, households receive heavily subsidized energy efficiency upgrades as well as informational and behavioral treatments designed to encourage conservation. While previous work demonstrates that weatherization programs provide sizable energy savings, all have measured the composite effect of efficiency upgrades and behavioral treatments. In this paper, we present the first estimates which disentangle the energy savings provided by each of the individual interventions. Our results reveal that the actual energy savings achieved by the efficiency upgrades are substantially smaller than ex-ante, engineering predictions. Moreover, we present evidence that the energy savings provided by the simple behavioral interventions can exceed the savings resulting from the much more costly efficiency upgrades.
Housing Market Fundamentals, Housing Quality and Energy Consumption: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Claudy Marius , Michelsen Claus
Published: September 2015

This study investigates the relationship between regional housing market fundamentals and energy consumption. We argue that dwellings, in particularly rental properties, are not only consumer goods, but also constitute financial market assets. Properties are spatially fixed and traded in regional contexts, where real estate market characteristics like vacancy, income levels, and expectations determine rent and prices, which in turn provide incentives to invest in housing quality.

The level of housing quality (e.g. windows, building materials, or heating technology) in turn influences the level of energy consumption. While this view is established in the real estate and urban economics literature, it has only recently found its way into the energy debate. As a result, the relationship between regional housing market fundamentals and energy consumption has received little attention. This study provides a first attempt to address this paucity. Utilizing aggregate data on regional space-heating energy consumption from over 300,000 apartment buildings in 97 German planning regions, the study applies structural equation modeling to estimate the influence of housing market fundamentals on the level housing quality, and subsequently on regional energy consumption. Findings provide first evidence that regional differences in housing market conditions have a significant impact on housing quality and energy consumption. Specifically, the results suggest that carbon abatement programs in buildings should focus on regions with weak housing market fundamentals, as market incentives are unlikely to incentivize investors to invest in housing quality attributes. The authors conclude by highlighting important implications for energy research and avenues for further investigations.
Agressie in de tram
Authors: Müller Thaddeus , Zeestraten Roy
Published: September 2015

Agression on the tram. Perspectives of tram conductors

In this article we focus on how tram drivers react when confronted with a situation of aggression in the tram. Their role in these situations has hardly been explored in recent Dutch studies on this topic. In our explorative research, which consisted of observation and interviews in The Hague, our aim is to gain the perspective of tram drivers on aggressive passengers. Through their eyes we describe a range of strategies which they use to restore public order. Our research shows that in order to understand the reaction of tram drivers a) this has to be placed in the sequential development of an aggressive interaction and b) this has to be related to the ways they give meaning to the aggression of passengers and their work context. Our research shows that there are two perspectives among tram drivers: a) a ‘business’ perspective, with an emphasis of tram drivers as employees who avoid risk situations and call for support in situations they cannot control and b) a personal perspective, in which tram drivers tend to follow more personal guidelines, in which masculinity plays a central role. Those who use the later perspective become more involved in violent and physical interactions.
Poëtica in criminologisch onderzoek?
Authors: Siegel Dina
Published: September 2015

Poetics in criminological research? Criminology and the ars poetica

Based on a new book edited by Michael Hviid Jacobsen The Poetics of Crime. Understanding and Researching Crime and Devience Through Creative Sources (Ashgate, 2014), Dina Siegel analyzes the ways in which social scientists can find inspiration in art, music, literature, photography and dance. She discusses how these fields can enrich criminological research by introducing new analytical instruments and skills and to discover new research fields, meanings and emotions in crime-related issues.
Virtual Velocity Vector-Based Offline Collision-Free Path Planning of Industrial Robotic Manipulator
Authors: Ouyang Fan , Zhang Tie
Published: September 2015

Currently, industrial robotic manipulators are applied in many manufacturing applications. In most cases, an industrial environment is a cluttered and complex one where moving obstacles may exist and hinder the movement of robotic manipulators. Therefore, a robotic manipulator not only has to avoid moving obstacles, but also needs to fulfill the manufacturing requirements of smooth movement in fixed tact time. Thus, this paper proposes a virtual velocity vector-based algorithm of offline collision-free path planning for manipulator arms in a controlled industrial environment. The minimum distance between a manipulator and a moving obstacle can be maintained at an expected value by utilizing our proposed algorithm with established offline collision-free path-planning and trajectory-generating systems. Furthermore, both joint space velocity and Cartesian space velocity of generated time-efficient trajectory are continuous and smooth. In addition, the vector of detour velocity in a 3D environment is determined and depicted. Simulation results indicate that detour velocity can shorten the total task time as well as escaping the local minimal effectively. In summary, our approach can fulfill both safety requirements of collision avoidance of moving obstacles and manufacturing requirements of smooth movement within fixed tact time in an industrial environment.
Analysis and Realization of Card Flicking Manipulation Using a High-Speed Robot Hand
Authors: Yamakawa Yuji , Namiki Akio , Ishikawa Masatoshi
Published: September 2015

In this study we successfully demonstrated a dexterous manipulation of sheet-like elastic objects — namely playing cards — using a high-speed multifingered robot hand system. Our goal in this research was to achieve card flicking by vibrating a fingertip of the robot hand at high speed. Firstly, we discuss card grasping in the initial state based on the geometrical conditions of the card and the kinematics of the robot hand. Secondly, we propose a strategy for performing the card flicking. In addition, we obtain the card-flicking conditions by analysing the slip between the card and the fingertip of the robot hand. In addition, we analyse an energy transition of the card based on the physical law. Thirdly, we estimate a spring constant of the card via a vibrational experiment. Then we simulate the trajectory of a flying card after the slippage, and compare a simulation result with an experimental result of the flying card's trajectory. Finally, we show the experimental results of card flicking using the high-speed robot system and the proposed method.
Matrix-Dependent Strain Distributions of Au and Ag Nanoparticles in a Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor-Based Nonvolatile Memory Device
Authors: Huang Honghua , Zhang Ying , Wei Wenyan , Yu Ting , Luo Xingfang , Yuan Cailei
Published: September 2015

The matrix-dependent strain distributions of Au and Ag nanoparticles in a metal-oxide-semiconductor based nonvolatile memory device are investigated by finite element calculations. The simulation results clearly indicate that both Au and Ag nanoparticles incur compressive strain by high-k Al2O3 and conventional SiO2 dielectrics. The strain distribution of nanoparticles is closely related to the surrounding matrix. Nanoparticles embedded in different matrices experience different compressive stresses, which provide opportunities for tailoring the microstructure of Au and Ag nanoparticles. This opens up ways for exploring strain effects on physical properties and further tunes the charge storage properties of nanoparticles.
Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia: A Review and Discussion of Variant Translocations
Authors: Adams Julia , Nassiri Mehdi
Published: September 2015

The majority of patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) manifest the t(15;17)(q24.1;q21.2) translocation; however, a minor but significant proportion of patients with APL harbor complex, cryptic, or variant translocations, which typically involve RARA. With the exception of ZBTB16/RARA, these variants have similar morphologic and immunophenotypic features as classic APL. Study of the variant forms of APL not only gives insight into the pathogenesis of APL but also allows us to understand the mechanism of retinoid therapy. It is important to identify these cryptic and variant translocations because certain variants, including ZBTB16/RARA and STAT5B/RARA, are resistant to treatment with all-trans retinoic acid, arsenic trioxide, and anthracyclines.
Underutilization of Meta-analysis in Diagnostic Pathology
Authors: Kinzler Michael , Zhang Lanjing
Published: September 2015

Context

No studies to our knowledge have investigated citations and utilization of meta-analysis in diagnostic pathology (DP).

Objective

To characterize meta-analyses in DP compared with meta-analyses in medicine.

Design

We searched PubMed for meta-analyses in 12 major DP journals without specifying years and in 4 major medicine journals in both 2006 and 2011. We compared articles' adjusted citation ratios (ACRs), defined as an article's citation count divided by the mean citations for the meta-analysis, review, and original research articles published in the same journal in the same year.

Results

Forty-one of 76 DP articles, 74 of 125 medicine articles in 2011, and 52 of 83 medicine articles in 2006 were qualified meta-analyses as identified by PubMed. The ACRs of DP meta-analysis articles were higher than those of original research articles (2.62 ± 2.31 versus 0.92 ± 0.84, P < .001) and similar to those of review articles in 2006 (2.62 ± 2.31 versus 1.95 ± 1.59, P = .50), but they were similar to both in 2011 (1.85 ± 1.39 versus 0.99 ± 1.43, P = .11; 1.85 ± 1.39 versus 1.12 ± 1.43, P = .21, respectively). Diagnostic pathology and medicine meta-analyses had similar ACRs (1.85 ± 1.39 versus 1.57 ± 1.35 in 2011, P = .60; and 2.62 ± 2.31 versus 1.85 ± 1.90 in 2006, P = .50, respectively). However, although DP journals published fewer meta-analyses (0.97% versus 6.66% in 2011 and 0.67% versus 4.40% in 2006, P < .001 for both), they published more meta-analyses using both original and published data than medicine (21.95% versus 1.59%, P < .001). They also published more meta-analyses per year in 2011–2014 than in 2000–2010 (6.4 ± 1.29 versus 1.36 ± 1.03 articles per year, P < .001).

Conclusions

We found underutilization of meta-analyses in DP, despite their high ACRs and recently increased utilization. More DP meta-analyses are needed.
MiT Family Translocation-Associated Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Contemporary Update With Emphasis on Morphologic, Immunophenotypic, and Molecular Mimics
Authors: Magers Martin J. , Udager Aaron M. , Mehra Rohit
Published: September 2015

Translocation-associated renal cell carcinoma (t-RCC) is a relatively uncommon subtype of renal cell carcinoma characterized by recurrent gene rearrangements involving the TFE3 or TFEB loci. TFE3 and TFEB are members of the microphthalmia transcription factor (MiT) family, which regulates differentiation in melanocytes and osteoclasts, and MiT family gene fusions activate unique molecular programs that can be detected immunohistochemically. Although the overall clinical behavior of t-RCC is variable, emerging molecular data suggest the possibility of targeted approaches to advanced disease. Thus, distinguishing t-RCC from its morphologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular mimics may have important clinical implications. The differential diagnosis for t-RCC includes a variety of common renal neoplasms, particularly those demonstrating clear cell and papillary features; in addition, because of immunophenotypic overlap and/or shared molecular abnormalities (ie, TFE3 gene rearrangement), a distinctive set of nonepithelial renal tumors may also warrant consideration. Directed ancillary testing is an essential aspect to the workup of t-RCC cases and may include a panel of immunohistochemical stains, such as PAX8, pancytokeratins, epithelial membrane antigen, carbonic anhydrase IX, HMB-45, and Melan-A. Dual-color, break-apart fluorescent in situ hybridization for TFE3 or TFEB gene rearrangement may be helpful in diagnostically challenging cases or when molecular confirmation is needed.
Reed-Sternberg–Like Cells in Non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Authors: Gomez-Gelvez Juan C. , Smith Lauren B.
Published: September 2015

Large atypical cells with morphologic and immunophenotypic features resembling Reed-Sternberg cells can be seen in the background of reactive lymphadenopathies as well as non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The presence of these cells is an important diagnostic pitfall that must be recognized by pathologists who regularly interpret lymph node biopsies. A thorough evaluation of the morphologic and immunophenotypic features of these cells and the cellular milieu is crucial in achieving the correct diagnosis. In this review, examples of lymphomas presenting with Reed-Sternberg–like cells will be provided. Additionally, a detailed description of the common morphologic and immunophenotypic features of these cells, as well as strategies that can be used to distinguish them from the Reed-Sternberg cells of classical Hodgkin lymphoma, will be emphasized.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis: A Clinicopathologic Review and Molecular Pathogenetic Update
Authors: Harmon Charles M. , Brown Noah
Published: September 2015

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) comprises a wide spectrum of clinical disorders that have in common a proliferation of Langerhans-type cells with characteristic morphologic, immunophenotypic, and ultrastructural features. In part because of the diverse clinical manifestations of LCH, there has long been controversy over whether LCH is best considered a reactive process or a neoplasm. Herein, we discuss the clinical and pathologic features of LCH, including recent advances in the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of this disease that support its categorization as a neoplasm. We also review the implications that these recently described molecular characteristics may have on risk stratification and treatment of LCH.
Pulmonary Apical Cap—What's Old Is New Again
Authors: Lagstein Amir
Published: September 2015

The pulmonary apical cap (PAC) is a morphologically distinct type of unilateral or bilateral fibroelastotic scar involving the lung apices. Despite being relatively common and having been described more than a hundred years ago, it remains underappreciated as a unique diagnostic entity by clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists alike. Given the centrality of modern chest imaging in the workup of diseases of the lungs, it may be expected that the PAC will be biopsied with increasing frequency. As such, pathologists should be familiar with its presentation, appearance, and differential diagnosis. This article serves as a short overview of PAC and as a practical aid in its diagnosis for surgical pathologists.
Accuracy and Adequacy of Computed Tomography–Guided Lung Biopsies: Experience From a Community Hospital
Authors: Florentine Barbara D. , Helton Richard J. , Mitchell Michael M. , Schmidt Kara E. , Kozlov David B.
Published: September 2015

Context: Small tissue biopsies obtained through minimally invasive methods have become the primary diagnostic tools for the pathologic characterization and testing of lung masses. In view of recent advances in targeted therapy for non–small cell lung carcinoma, and lung adenocarcinoma in particular, pathologists are now expected to thoroughly characterize lung lesions microscopically while making certain that enough tissue remains for potential molecular analysis if indicated.

Objective: To report our experience with computed tomography (CT)–guided lung needle biopsies with particular concentration on diagnostic yield, diagnostic accuracy, and adequacy of tissue for molecular testing if indicated.

Methods: A retrospective observational study analyzed 224 biopsies in 222 patients undergoing CT-guided lung needle biopsies. Accuracy of diagnosis and adequacy of tissue for molecular testing, if applicable, was evaluated. A standardized protocol for specimen evaluation, triage, and processing was used. This protocol included intraprocedural real-time microscopic specimen evaluation and triage by a pathologist and use of a histologic protocol specifically designed to conserve tissue for ancillary testing. The initial biopsy was considered successful if the specimen was malignant, had specific benign features, or had nonspecific benign features with follow-up supporting benign lesion. Initial biopsy failure cases were those with inadequate tissue or a nonspecific result with highly suspicious imaging or clinical findings.

Results: Of the 224 biopsies, 8 cases with benign but nonspecific findings lacked follow-up and were excluded from the study. The biopsy was diagnostically successful in 189 of 216 (88%) cases. Of these 189 cases, 154 (81%) were malignant, and 35 (19%) were benign. There were 28 diagnostic failures. Subsequent tissue sampling of 13 of 28 diagnostic failures found 9 (69%) to be malignant. Molecular studies were requested on 25 cases: 24 had sufficient material for some of the requested tests, and 20 had enough tissue for all requested testing.

Conclusion: A standardized protocol and team approach for CT-guided lung needle biopsy optimizes the ability to achieve a high accurate diagnostic yield with adequate tissue for molecular testing.
Peroneus Longus Rupture at Its Origin Managed With Platelet Rich Plasma
Authors: Else Britney , Emel T. Jeffery , Kern Thomas , Cavanagh Lamont E. , Allen Thomas W.
Published: September 2015

Tears of the peroneus longus muscle are unusual, and typically involve the distal insertion at the musculotendon junction. Although tears of the mid-portion of the peroneus longus muscle/tendon complex have been reported, no reports of a tear at the origin of the peroneus muscle have been published, to the authors’ knowledge. Herein a case of proximal peroneus longus muscle tear and its subsequent management with platelet rich plasma is reported.
Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysm Masquerading as a Pancreatic Cyst—A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Chia C. , Pandya G. J. , Kamalesh A. , Shelat V. G.
Published: September 2015

Splenic artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare entity. Clinical diagnosis is challenging because presentation is often varied. It can range from an incidental finding to hemodynamic collapse from sudden rupture and bleeding. The most common cause of this condition is pancreatitis. We report an unusual case of a young man not known to have pancreatitis who presented with hematemesis with normal esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Imaging modalities did not lead to a definitive diagnosis, and he underwent emergency laparotomy with surgical ligation of splenic artery pseudoaneurysm for hemodynamic instability, without a definitive preoperative diagnosis.
Management of Appendiceal Mass and Abscess. An 11-Year Experience
Authors: Demetrashvili Zaza , Kenchadze Giorgi , Pipia Irakli , Ekaladze Eka , Kamkamidze George
Published: September 2015

The aim of our study is to compare the results of emergency surgery versus conservative treatment with interval surgery in patients diagnosed with appendiceal mass and abscess. A retrospective review of 48 patients with appendiceal mass and abscess treated from January 2002 to January 2013 at General Surgery Department of Kipshidze Central University Hospital was performed. Patients with emergency surgery were compared to patients treated by nonoperative management with interval surgery. Demographics, clinical profile, and operative outcomes were studied. The emergency surgery group included 25 patients, and the interval surgery group included 23 patients. The clinical characteristics of the emergency surgery and interval surgery groups were not statistically different. In the emergency surgery group, an open appendectomy was performed on 17 patients, and colonic resections (ileocecectomy or right hemicolectomy) were performed on 8 patients. In the interval surgery group, an open appendectomy was performed on 21 patients, and colonic resections were performed on 2 patients. There were no statistical differences in types of surgery, postoperative complications, operation time without colonic resections, and postoperative hospitalization period among these 2 groups. Operation time with colonic resections was of greater duration in the emergency surgery group than in the interval surgery group (P = 0.04). Both treatment methods for appendiceal mass and abscess have the same results. The surgeon must consider clinical symptoms and results of investigations in each particular case when choosing an appropriate treatment method. Prospective randomized controlled trials are required for comparing the results of all 3 treatment methods of appendiceal mass.