bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Histopathological and immunohistochemical features of nodular podoconiosis
Authors: Enbiale Wendemagegn , Tirumalae Rajalakshmi , Böer‐Auer Almut 
Published: November 2014

BackgroundPodoconiosis is a familial geochemical dermatosis which is common in Ethiopia but relatively unknown in Europe/United States. It is related to exposure of bare feet to volcanic soil and presents with extensive bilateral lymphedema of legs and feet. Histopathological and immunohistochemical features of it have not been described yet.ObjectivesThe objectives of this study are to characterize podoconiosis histopathologically and immunohistochemically and to increase awareness of the disease.MethodsTen specimens of fully developed podoconiosis were examined with hematoxylin/eosin, periodic acid‐Schiff, Gram, elastica‐van Gieson stainings, with immunohistochemistry (CD3,CD20,CD31,CD68,CD138, tryptase, podoplanin, collagen IV), and with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for human papillomavirus (HPV)‐specific DNA.ResultsAll specimens showed verrucous acanthosis and papillomatosis. Eccrine ducts demonstrated hyperplasia, syringofibroadenomatous changes and miliaria. Dermal collagen bundles were thickened, and elastic fibers were dramatically reduced. A moderate lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate was joined by mast cells and scattered macrophages; neutrophils and eosinophils were sparse. Blood vessels were increased, dilated, and often sclerotic while lymphatics were reduced and largely not dilated. HPV‐PCR was negative in all specimens.ConclusionsPodoconiosis demonstrates distinctive changes of chronic lymphedema with extensive sclerosis, loss of elastic fibers, verrucous acanthosis (not HPV induced) and reactive changes of eccrine structures. Mast cells, macrophages and altered blood vessels may be involved in the pathogenesis.
Borehole Flowmeter Logging for the Accurate Design and Analysis of Tracer Tests
Authors: Basiricò Stefano , Crosta Giovanni B. , Frattini Paolo , Villa Alberto , Godio Alberto 
Published: November 2014

AbstractTracer tests often give ambiguous interpretations that may be due to the erroneous location of sampling points and/or the lack of flow rate measurements through the sampler. To obtain more reliable tracer test results, we propose a methodology that optimizes the design and analysis of tracer tests in a cross borehole mode by using vertical borehole flow rate measurements. Experiments using this approach, herein defined as the Bh‐flow tracer test, have been performed by implementing three sequential steps: (1) single‐hole flowmeter test, (2) cross‐hole flowmeter test, and (3) tracer test. At the experimental site, core logging, pumping tests, and static water‐level measurements were previously carried out to determine stratigraphy, fracture characteristics, and bulk hydraulic conductivity. Single‐hole flowmeter testing makes it possible to detect the presence of vertical flows as well as inflow and outflow zones, whereas cross‐hole flowmeter testing detects the presence of connections along sets of flow conduits or discontinuities intercepted by boreholes. Finally, the specific pathways and rates of groundwater flow through selected flowpaths are determined by tracer testing. We conclude that the combined use of single and cross‐borehole flowmeter tests is fundamental to the formulation of the tracer test strategy and interpretation of the tracer test results.
Intra‐ and Interobserver Agreement on Radiographic Phenotype in the Diagnosis of Canine Hip Dysplasia
Authors: Fortrie Ruth R. , Verhoeven Geert , Broeckx Bart , Duchateau Luc , Janssens Luc , Samoy Yves , Schreurs Elke , Saunders Jimmy , van Bree Henri , Vandekerckhove Peter , Coopman Frank 
Published: November 2014

ObjectiveTo investigate the repeatability and reproducibility of the presence of a circumferential femoral head osteophyte (CFHO), a curvilinear caudolateral osteophyte (CCO), osteosclerosis of the cranial acetabular edge (Scler CrAE), degenerative joint disease (DJD), and the diagnosis of suspected canine hip dysplasia (CHD) in different groups of experienced observers.Study DesignCross‐sectional study.Sample PopulationStandard hip extended radiographs (n = 50).MethodsNine experienced observers were divided into 3 groups: surgeons (DECVS), radiologists (DECVDI), and non‐board certified observers (NBC) and 2 subgroups (academics and non‐academics). Cohen's kappa (κ) was calculated for CFHO, CCO, Scler CrAE, DJD, and suspected CHD, and weighted κ was calculated for DJD score to determine inter‐ and intraobserver agreement.ResultsIntraobserver agreement on CFHO, CCO, Scler CrAE, DJD, and suspected CHD ranged from slight to almost perfect, but was not significantly different between NBC, DECVS, and DECVDI. Radiologists and non‐board certified observers had a more uniform scoring than surgeons on the overall DJD score, as did academics versus non‐academics.Interobserver agreement for NBC was more uniform than that of radiologists and surgeons on CCO and DJD. NBC and radiologists scored more uniformly than surgeons on CFHO, and radiologists scored more uniformly than NBC and surgeons on Scler CrAE. Academics scored more uniformly than non‐academics, but only significantly for Scler CrAE.ConclusionsRecognition of specific radiographic markers is only fairly reliable within and between experienced observers. Therefore, care must be taken to apply these traits in official screening, surgical decision‐making and scientific research.
Changes in caregiver burden and health‐related quality of life of informal caregivers of older people with Dementia: evidence from the European RightTimePlaceCare prospective cohort study
Authors: Bleijlevens Michel H.C. , Stolt Minna , Stephan Astrid , Zabalegui Adelaida , Saks Kai , Sutcliffe Caroline , Lethin Connie , Soto Maria E. , Zwakhalen Sandra M.G. ,   the RightTimePlaceCare Consortium
Published: November 2014

AbstractAimsTo describe differences in caregiver burden and health‐related quality of life of informal caregivers of people with dementia in eight European countries and assess changes after transition from home to institutional long‐term care.BackgroundCountry differences in the experience of burden and health‐related quality of life are rarely described.DesignProspective cohort study.MethodsData on burden and health‐related quality of life were collected at baseline (conducted between November 2010–April 2012) and follow‐up (after 3 months) using face‐to‐face interviews. Two groups of informal caregivers included those: (1) of people with dementia recently admitted to institutional long‐term care facilities; and those (2) of people with dementia receiving home care. Statistical analyses focused on descriptive comparisons between groups and countries.ResultsInformal caregivers of about 2014 were interviewed. Informal caregivers of people with dementia at home experienced more burden compared with informal caregivers of recently institutionalised people with dementia. Almost no differences in health‐related quality of life were found between groups. Large differences between countries on outcomes were found. Informal caregivers of people with dementia who made the transition to an institutional long‐term care facility experienced a statistically significant decrease in burden and psychological distress at follow‐up.ConclusionCross‐country differences may be related to differences in health and social care systems. Taking this into account, informal caregiver interventions need to be tailored to (country specific) contexts and (individual) needs. Findings highlight the positive impact of admission to institutional long‐term care on informal caregiver well‐being.
Three‐Dimensional Optoacoustic Monitoring of Lesion Formation in Real Time During Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation
Authors: PANG GENNY A. , BAY ERWIN , DEÁN‐BEN X. LUÍS , RAZANSKY DANIEL 
Published: November 2014

Real‐Time Optoacoustic Monitoring of RF AblationIntroductionDue to lack of reliable imaging contrast from catheter radiofrequency ablation (RFA) lesions, the vast majority of current procedures rely on indirect indicators of ablation activity, resulting in a significant number of arrhythmia reoccurrences after RFA procedures and the need for repeat surgeries. The objective of this work is to develop an accurate method for on‐the‐fly assessment of the durability and size of lesions formed during RFA procedures.Method and ResultsRadiofrequency catheter ablation on freshly excised porcine ventricular myocardial tissue was optoacoustically monitored by means of pulsed‐laser illumination in the near‐infrared spectrum. Lesion formation during ablation was captured at a rate of 10 Hz with a 256‐detector optoacoustic imaging probe. Postablated samples were imaged using multispectral excitation in the wavelength range 740–860 nm to determine the lesion contrast spectrum. Tomographic reconstruction was performed to generate 3‐dimensional images of the lesions, which were compared to photographs depicting the final ablated tissue samples. Video‐rate 3‐dimensional tomographic reconstructions depict formation of the lesion with high contrast and spatial resolution. The size and geometry of the lesion was shown to be in excellent agreement with the histological examinations. The wavelength dependence of the lesion contrast shows a contrast peak near 780 nm.ConclusionDeep‐tissue 3‐dimensional monitoring of RFA lesion generation in real time was demonstrated for the first time in this work. The results suggest the potential of optoacoustic monitoring for providing critical feedback on lesion position and size during radiofrequency catheter ablation, improving safety and efficacy of these treatments.
Stateless Euro: The Euro Crisis and the Revenge of the Chartalist Theory of Money
Authors: Otero‐Iglesias Miguel 
Published: November 2014

AbstractThis article argues that contemporary optimum currency area (OCA) theory is limited in its capacity to understand the euro crisis because it emanates from the commodity‐exchange theory of money and therefore under‐estimates the necessity of a (sovereign) political authority to underpin any given monetary space. An alternative conception of money, based on the chartalist approach, is more useful for grasping the fundamental weaknesses in European monetary union (EMU). Overall, the argument is that EMU will remain a fragile edifice as long as the eurozone does not create a centralized and legitimate political authority capable of taxing eurozone citizens at the European level. In order for this to be achieved, France and Germany need to resolve the ‘game of chicken’ in which they are entangled and strengthen their co‐operative efforts towards creating a European sovereign.
The foundations of next generation attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder neuropsychology: building on progress during the last 30 years
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J.S. , Coghill David 
Published: November 2014

PreambleIn the JCPP Virtual Issues series, editors are invited to look back over our catalogue and identify papers that illustrate the journal's influence on the emergence of specific fields within the broader domains of child psychology and psychiatry. This virtual issue1,2 focuses specifically on the last 30 years of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) research. While the journal has published papers on nearly every aspect of this condition our initial scoping exercise highlighted a particular impact in two areas: neuropsychology and behavioural genetics. Here we address the JCPPs contribution to contemporary understanding of the neuropsychology of ADHD. We are planning to put together a further Virtual Issue on behavioural genetics in the near future.
Aesthetic dermatology and emotional well‐being questionnaire
Authors: Martínez‐González M. Covadonga , Martínez‐González Raquel‐Amaya , Guerra‐Tapia Aurora 
Published: November 2014

SummaryBackgroundIn recent years, there has been a great development of esthetic dermatology as a subspecialty of dermatology. It is important to know to which extent the general population regard this branch of medical surgical specialty as being of interest and contributing to emotional well‐being.ObjectiveTo analyze the technical features of a questionnaire which has been designed to reflect such perception of the general population about esthetic dermatology and its contribution to emotional well‐being.Material and methodProduction and psychometric analysis of a self‐filled in questionnaire in relation to esthetic dermatology and emotional well‐being (DEBIE). This questionnaire is made of 57 items and has been applied to a sample of 770 people within the general population. The drawing‐up process of the questionnaire is described to provide content validity. Items analysis was carried out together with exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis to assess the structure and construct validity of the tool. The extent of internal consistency (reliability) and concurrent validity has also been verified.ResultsDEBIE questionnaire (Spanish acronym for Aesthetic Dermatology and Emotional Well‐being) revolves around six factors explaining 53.91% of the variance; there is a high level of internal consistency (Cronbach's α 0.90) and reasonable criterion validity.ConclusionsDEBIE questionnaire brings together adequate psychometric properties that can be applied to assess the perception that the general population have in relation to esthetic dermatology and its contribution to their emotional well‐being.
Assessment of the efficacy and tolerance of a new combination of retinoids and depigmenting agents in the treatment of melasma
Authors: Truchuelo Maria Teresa , Jiménez Natalia , Jaén Pedro 
Published: November 2014

SummaryBackgroundMelasma is a dermatosis with significant repercussions on patients' quality of life, and there is currently no standard treatment. Hydroquinone is deemed the treatment of choice, but its safety has been questioned in certain cases.AimsTo determine the efficacy and safety of a new combination of retinoids in the improvement of melasma.Patients/MethodsProspective, double‐blind, vehicle‐controlled, and randomized study in 30 patients with melasma. The product was applied on one side of the face and the vehicle on the other, twice daily during 3 months. Standardized photographs were taken using RBX technology on the three visits (basal, at one and a half months and at 3 months). The main variable to determine the efficacy was the improvement of the hemifacial Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI). Other variables were determined such as improvement perceived by the investigator, improvement perceived by the patient, impact on quality of life or side effects.ResultsThe MASI improvement at 3 months of treatment was significant on the treated side vs. the vehicle side, reaching an improvement of 70%, which is comparable to the percentage of improvement described with hydroquinone. No notable side effects were detected, in spite of a significant percentage of patients included in the study citing a history that could be compatible with sensitive skin.ConclusionsThis new combination of retinoids and depigmenting agents proved to be effective and safe in the treatment of melasma.
Review of the safety profile for microfocused ultrasound with visualization
Authors: Hitchcock Thomas M , Dobke Marek K 
Published: November 2014

SummaryThe Safety of Microfocused Ultrasound with Visualization (MFU‐V) has been well established in both controlled clinical studies and in clinical use, showing only mild and transient anticipated side effects and only rare unanticipated adverse events (AEs). This publication discusses the safety profile of MFU‐V based on data from a variety of sources. Reports of side effects and AEs were obtained from published peer‐reviewed medical literature, clinical studies, in‐market use reports (AEs reported to the manufacturer), and retrospective chart reviews of patient treatments. Events that were typical included tenderness, redness, and slight edema. Rare events included bruising, welting, and nerve‐related effects (paresthesia and paresis). Rare incidence of surface thermal effects was seen in some cases where improper technique was used. In all cases where the device was uses properly, the safety events reported tended to be transient, mild in nature, and resolved without sequelae. In general, unexpected and rare AEs could be attributed to incorrect treatment technique or classified as unrelated to MFU‐V treatment. Side effects that do occur are generally mild and transient in nature. MFU‐V consistently allows for safe treatment when correct treatment technique is used.
Nail changes and disorders in elderly Egyptians
Authors: El‐Domyati Moetaz , Abdel‐Wahab Hossam , Abdel‐Azim Eman 
Published: November 2014

SummaryBackgroundThe nail unit is an important part of cosmetic appearance of an individual. Older people are at an increased risk of nail alterations, including normal age‐related changes and disorders that more commonly affect this specific population.ObjectivesTo identify and evaluate the age‐related nail changes and disorders in Egyptian elderly people both clinically and histopathologically.Patients/MethodsA total of 400 adult subjects, not complaining from any dermatological disease, were included in the present study; half of them were elderly of 60 years and above (elderly group). Meanwhile, the other half served as a control group with younger ages. Full history taking, general and local examinations as well as nail biopsies were performed from selected cases with age‐related nail changes and disorders.ResultsNail changes were significantly (P < 0.05) more common in old age group (88%) compared to control subjects (39%). The commonest age‐related nail changes noticed were pale, dull, opaque, and lusterless nails (73%); brittle nails (67.5%); decreased lunula visibility (49%); and onychorrhexis (45.5%). They showed highly significant increase (P < 0.001) when compared with control group.ConclusionsThe prevalence of nail changes and disorders has increased among elderly patients although they are frequently overlooked by health care providers. Dermatologist should be aware about various nail changes related to aging and those associated with other dermatoses or systemic diseases. Histopathologic picture can enhance the accuracy of clinical diagnosis of various nail changes and disorders.
STABILISATION POLICY, RATIONAL EXPECTATIONS AND PRICE‐LEVEL VERSUS INFLATION TARGETING: A SURVEY
Authors: Hatcher Michael , Minford Patrick 
Published: November 2014

AbstractWe survey literature comparing inflation targeting (IT) and price‐level targeting (PT) as macroeconomic stabilisation policies. Our focus is on New Keynesian models and areas that have seen significant developments since Ambler's (2009, Price‐level targeting and stabilisation policy: a survey. Journal of Economic Surveys 23(5): 974–997) survey: optimal monetary policy; the zero lower bound; financial frictions and transition costs of adopting a PT regime. Ambler's conclusion that PT improves social welfare in New Keynesian models is fairly robust, but we note an interesting split in the literature: PT consistently outperforms IT in models where policymakers commit to simple Taylor‐type rules, but results in favour of PT when policymakers minimise loss functions are overturned with small deviations from the baseline model. Since the beneficial effects of PT appear to hang on the joint assumption that agents are rational and the economy New Keynesian, we discuss survey and experimental evidence on rational expectations and the applied macro literature on the empirical performance of New Keynesian models. Overall, the evidence is not clear‐cut, but we note that New Keynesian models can pass formal statistical tests against macro data and that models with rational expectations outperform those with behavioural expectations (i.e. heuristics) in direct statistical tests. We therefore argue that policymakers should continue to pay attention to PT.
GLOBAL VALUE CHAINS: A SURVEY OF DRIVERS AND MEASURES
Authors: Amador João , Cabral Sónia 
Published: November 2014

AbstractGlobal value chains (GVCs) emerged as the paradigm for the international organization of production. For most goods and services production is nowadays vertically fragmented across different countries and this reality gave rise to a significant new strand of research in international trade. This article starts by discussing the major driving forces of GVCs in recent decades. Next, it surveys the main measures of GVCs, accounting for their different scopes and required data sets. The article highlights the timing of the contributions to the literature, signalling their sequential nature and the trend toward more accurate and data‐demanding indicators.
Implementation of renal key performance indicators: Promoting improved clinical practice
Authors: Toussaint Nigel D , McMahon Lawrence P , Dowling Gregory , Soding Jenny , Safe Maria , Knight Richard , Fair Kathleen , Linehan Leanne , Walker Rowan G , Power David A 
Published: November 2014

AbstractAimIn the Australian state of Victoria, the Renal Health Clinical Network (RHCN) of the Department of Health Victoria established a Renal Key Performance Indicator (KPI) Working Group in 2011. The group developed four KPIs related to chronic kidney disease and dialysis. A transplant working group of the RHCN developed two additional KPIs. The aim was to develop clinical indicators to measure performance of renal services to drive service improvement.MethodsA data collection and benchmarking programme was established, with data provided monthly to the Department using a purpose‐designed website portal. The KPI Working Group is responsible for analysing data each quarter and ensuring indicators remain accurate and relevant. Each indicator has clear definitions and targets, and assess (i) patient education, (ii) timely creation of vascular access for haemodialysis, (iii) proportion of patients dialysing at home, (iv) incidence of dialysis‐related peritonitis, (v) incidence of pre‐emptive renal transplantation, and (vi) timely listing of patients for deceased donor transplantation.ResultsMost KPIs have demonstrated improved performance over time with limited gains notably in two: the proportion of patients dialysing at home (KPI 3) and timely listing patients for transplantation (KPI 6).ConclusionKPI implementation has been established in Victoria for 2 years, providing performance data without additional funding. The six Victorian KPIs are measurable, relevant and modifiable, and implementation relies on enthusiasm and goodwill of physicians and nurses involved in collecting data. The KPIs require further evaluation, but adoption of a similar programme by other jurisdictions could lead to improved national outcomes.