bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C5L2 Regulates DMP1 Expression during Odontoblastic Differentiation
Authors: Chmilewsky F. , Liang R. , Kanazawa M. , About I. , Cooper L.F. , George A.
Published: January 2019

The presence of stem cells within the dental-pulp tissue as well as their differentiation into a new generation of functional odontoblast-like cells constitutes an important step of the dentin-pulp regeneration. Recent investigations demonstrated that the complement system activation participates in 2 critical steps of dentin-pulp regeneration: pulp progenitor’s recruitment and pulp nerve sprouting. Surprisingly, its implication in odontoblastic differentiation has not been addressed yet. Since the complement receptor C5a receptor-like 2 (C5L2) is expressed by different stem cells, the aim of this study is to investigate if the dental pulp stem cells express C5L2 and if this receptor participates in odontoblastic differentiation. Immunohistochemistry performed on human third molar pulp sections showed a perivascular co-localization of the mesenchymal stem cell markers STRO1 and C5L2. In vitro immunofluorescent staining confirmed that hDPSCs express C5L2. Furthermore, we determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction that the expression of C5L2 is highly modulated in human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) undergoing odontoblastic differentiation. Moreover, we showed that this odontogenesis-regulated expression of C5L2 is specifically potentiated by the proinflammatory cytokine TNFα. Using a C5L2-siRNA silencing strategy, we provide direct evidence that C5L2 constitutes a negative regulator of the dentinogenic marker DMP1 (dentin matrix protein 1) expression by hDPSCs. Our findings suggest a direct correlation between the odontoblastic differentiation and the level of C5L2 expression in hDPSCs and identify C5L2 as a negative regulator of DMP1 expression by hDPSCs during the odontoblastic differentiation and inflammation processes. This work is the first to demonstrate the involvement of C5L2 in the biological function of stem cells, provides an important knowledge in understanding odontoblastic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells, and may be useful in future dentin-pulp engineering strategies.
An overview of trends in depressive symptoms in South Africa
Authors: Mungai Kinyanjui , Bayat Amiena
Published: January 2019

The relationship between mental health and socioeconomic status is well established in the literature. The socioeconomic standing of a number of South Africans remains poor and slow changing, while the mental health of the most vulnerable remains both an economic and health problem for government. There is, however, a lack of studies that assess depressive symptoms using panel data. There is also a lack of studies that consider factors that influence transitions of adults into and out of Significant Depressive Symptoms, particularly in the South African context. Panel data from the National Income Dynamics Study were used for this study to assess these transitions. The data included information on various socioeconomic and health variables, as well as a section that assesses the emotional health of adults in South Africa. This emotional health section in National Income Dynamics Study was essentially a 10-item version of the Centre for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. The study aimed to investigate how socioeconomic status is associated with the risk of adults transitioning into and out of Significant Depressive Symptoms in the South African context. The study found that the prevalence of adults who exhibited Significant Depressive Symptoms declined significantly in South Africa, despite the recent increase. Moreover, adults with a lower socioeconomic standing were identified as being particularly vulnerable to depression and struggled to transition out of Significant Depressive Symptoms.
Incorporating Black Images and References to Increase African American Student Performance in Introductory Psychology: A Pilot Study
Authors: Kelly Kiesa , Patrice Kesha
Published: January 2019

Psychology educators report time constraints and a lack of relevance to course material as barriers to the incorporation of diversity content into their courses. This pilot study demonstrates an approach to teaching introductory psychology that infuses images of and references to Black people in a way that requires no additional time and is relevant to course content. “Black Imagery” sections contained slide-embedded images of people appearing to be or of African descent, as well as textbook-relevant examples that referenced African Americans for 33% of the chapters covered. “White Imagery” sections, with images and references to people of European descent, provided a comparison. An independent-samples t test found a statistically significant difference in final course grades for African American students enrolled in Black ( M = 78.65; SD = 19.85) versus White Imagery ( M = 69.65, SD = 14.75) sections, t(58) = 2.01, p = .049, d = 0.77. Incorporating diversity into psychology courses can be time-efficient and instructionally relevant, and this benefits African American students, and potentially students of other heritage, as well.
Thymomas and Associated Hyperplastic Lesions in Wistar Hannover Rats
Authors: Tomonari Yuki , Sato Junko , Kurotaki Tetsuro , Wako Yumi , Kanno Takeshi , Tsuchitani Minoru
Published: January 2019

Thymomas occur prevalently in aged Wistar Hannover (WH) rats, along with hyperplastic lesions that cannot be categorized as thymomas. We compared the histological features of hyperplastic lesions and thymomas in WH rats, the incidences of these lesions, and the relationship of these lesions to the degree of thymic involution and also compared these lesions with those of Sprague Dawley (SD) rats in 4-, 13-, 26-, and 104-week studies. There were no morphological differences between hyperplastic cells and benign tumor cells in thymomas. The histological difference between hyperplastic lesions and thymomas was the size of the proliferative areas and the number of medullary differentiation areas. The hyperplastic lesions of the thymus in WH rats might have a potential for progression to thymomas due to the observed multiple hyperplastic lesions or mixed lesions with thymomas. The incidence of these proliferative lesions in the thymus was higher in females than in males. Further, the incidence of these proliferative lesions was higher in WH rats than in SD rats. Thymic involution was more severe in males than in females and more severe in SD rats than in WH rats. The differences in involution progression may have been reflected in the incidence of thymic proliferative lesions in SD and WH rats.
A new model for accurate estimation of gas content and pressure based on Langmuir adsorption equation in Guizhou, China
Authors: Li Qingsong , Wang Enyuan , Duan Zhengpeng , Zhu Junkui , Wu Jiahao
Published: January 2019

In order to obtain the functional relationship of gas content and gas pressure, and to accurately calculate the two values which fitting the characteristics of coal seam, the destruction coefficient (X) and the index (ΔP) of the initial velocity of gas emission are introduced to establish the new model with higher precision based on Langmuir equation and destruction type of coal. The applicability of classic model (W-P model) and new optimization model in Guizhou mining areas are studied through the statistics of basic parameter data from 107 groups of coal-seam gas in eight mining areas. The results show that the gas content calculated by the classical model is lower than the measured value, while the gas pressure value is larger than that. The average relative error of gas content and pressure data reach 23.98% and 97.86%, respectively. The gas content and pressure data calculated by the optimization model are well fitted with the measured value. The fitting degree gradually rises with the increase of the sample size, and the average relative errors are 6.44% and 14.27%, respectively. Compared with the classical model, the average relative errors of gas content and pressure calculated by the optimization model reduce by 17.54% and 83.59%, respectively. The optimization model controls the tendency of calculated value error which significantly rises as the ΔP increases. For the coals with different destruction types, the average relative error of calculated gas content in optimization model ranges from 4.40% to 11.99%. And the average relative error of calculated pressure value ranges from 9.84% to 25.80%, both of them are far superior to that of classical model. The optimization model is more accurate for calculating the gas content and pressure in Guizhou.
Current status of perfusionists in Brazil: a 2018 survey
Authors: Nicoletti Andrelise Maria , Zamberlan Claudia , Miranda Raquel Christine Kruger , Marques Clandio , de Moraes Cristina Bragança
Published: January 2019

Perfusionists have a fundamental role in multi-professional teams involved in cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. The main objective of this study is to outline the profile of Brazilian perfusionists in the labor market by considering the evolution, current scenario, and future perspectives of this profession. Data from socio-demographic and professional profiles in active duty in Brazil were obtained through an electronic survey. The sample consisted of 157 perfusionists and showed that most of the professionals are female (58%), have up to 35 years of age (47.8%), and are married or are in a stable union (60%). Nurses make up 44.6% of the sample, followed by biomedical scientists at 31%. The salary range is related to the hours worked: the more hours worked, the higher the salaries (p = 0.007). Complementary training shows a period of transition and improvement in this specialty: 94% have a higher education level, 97% of whom are graduates in one of the six courses that recognize the role of professional perfusionists. There was no association between the time of professional performance and complementary training (p = 0.252). The professional profile of perfusionists is in clear evolution in terms of qualification since knowledge from the past, current scenario, and future projections trace new actions and professional insertion into different areas.
Chronic stress: a crucial promoter of cell apoptosis in atherosclerosis
Authors: Meng Ling-bing , Shan Meng-jie , Yu Ze-mou , Lv Jian , Qi Ruo-mei , Guo Peng , Zhang Yuan-meng , Gong Tao
Published: January 2019

Objective

Chronic stress may lead to augmented incidence rates of coronary and cerebrovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis. However, few studies have focused on the effect of chronic stress on atherosclerosis plaque formation. Therefore, this study was designed to directly evaluate how chronic stress affects atherosclerosis.

Methods

Thirty rabbits were divided into three groups: the control group, balloon-injury operation + high-fat diet model group, and chronic stress + balloon-injury operation + high-fat diet model group. Physical and social stress were induced, and proteomic methods were applied to identify specific markers.

Results

After protein determination, the chronic stress + balloon-injury operation + high-fat diet model group exhibited significant upregulation of the following apoptosis-related proteins: UBE2K, caspase 3, caspase 9, BAX, P53, and FAS. In particular, real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that the protein expression of caspase 9 was significantly downregulated in the stress group compared with the non-stress groups. However, the other proteins showed significantly increased expression in the stress group.

Conclusion

Chronic stress may promote cell apoptosis in the physiopathologic process of atherosclerosis.
Identification and Classification of Slippery Winter Road Conditions using Commonly Available Vehicle Variables
Authors: Padarthy Moksheeth , Heyns Emiliano
Published: January 2019

Extreme winter weather conditions severely affect the transportation sector. Technologies such as Road Weather Information Systems provide live data on the road surface conditions to assist the road authorities in providing safe mobility. The main problem is, however, the limited number of such systems that have been deployed, resulting in fragmented information about road conditions. This paper addresses the problems associated with the limited quantity of information concerning slippery winter road conditions by presenting a proof-of-concept for a system that not only detects slippery winter road conditions, but also predicts the type of slippery surface (ice, snow and slush) via vehicle-based systems. The concept demonstrated in this paper makes use of commonly available variables, which are, longitudinal slip ratios, longitudinal acceleration and the ambient temperature to identify such situations. The developed system employs a Fuzzy Inference System that is not only capable of identifying slippery conditions but is also capable of classifying surfaces based on the extent of slipperiness. This provides the road authorities with several moving sensors (vehicles traveling on a particular road) compared with the few fixed sensors currently available. This could deliver a pool of information to assist the road authorities to efficiently handle their staff and equipment so that appropriate equipment reaches the right place at the right time.
Estimating Uncertainty of Work Zone Capacity using Neural Network Models
Authors: Bian Zilin , Ozbay Kaan
Published: January 2019

This study aims to develop a neural network model to predict work zone capacity including various uncertainties stemming from traffic and operational conditions. The neural network model is formulated in terms of the number of total lanes, number of open lanes, heavy vehicle percentage, work intensity, and work duration. The data used in this paper are obtained from previous studies published in open literature. To capture the uncertainty of work zone capacity, this paper provides two recent methods that enable neural network models to generate prediction intervals which are determined by mean work zone capacity and prediction standard error. The research first builds a Bayesian neural network model with the application of black-box variational inference (BBVI) technique. The second model is based on a regular artificial neural network with an application of the recently proposed Monte-Carlo dropout technique. Both of the neural network models construct prediction intervals under various confidence levels and provide the coverage rates of the actual work zone capacities. The statistical accuracy (MAPE, MAE, MSE, and RMSE) of the models is then compared with traditional estimation methods in predicted mean work zone capacity. BBVI produces better statistical results than the other three models. Both of the models provide predicted work zone capacity distribution and prediction intervals, whereas traditional models only provide a single estimate.
Expanding access to psychotherapy in Canada: Building on achievements in Australia and the United Kingdom
Authors: Bartram Mary
Published: January 2019

Australia and the United Kingdom have significantly expanded access to psychotherapy over the past decade. With this international experience to draw upon and a new $5 billion federal mental health transfer, Canada is well positioned to address long-standing gaps and inequities in access to psychotherapy. In Canada’s more decentralized context, a concerted effort from health leaders at all levels of government and across multiple sectors and professions is needed to make the most of this opportunity for reform. Key priorities for health leaders include using the full range of provincial and territorial policy levers for either a grants-based or insurance-based approach; implementing a strong approach to performance monitoring, with equity targets built in from the outset; addressing gaps in workforce planning; and forming a pan-Canadian coalition for expanding access to psychotherapy.
An examination of nineteenth-century Polish handbooks on factory accounting
Authors: Szychta Anna
Published: January 2019

This study analyses factory accounting textbooks written by Polish authors in the nineteenth century. Although at that time Poland was divided and annexed by three countries (Russia, Prussia, and Austria) and the development of industry took place under foreign rule, commercial education continued, and accounting textbooks were published in Polish despite the restrictions imposed by the partitioning powers. Based on an overview of the content of 13 handbooks, the article answers several research questions. They relate to, among others, the authors and where these works were published and to the methods of record-keeping and cost calculation recommended by these authors for nineteenth-century manufacturing enterprises. The article presents the handbooks as a manifestation of the “organic work” of their authors in the socio-economic context of a country without its own state. It contributes to the current literature on resistance to an empire through accounting.
Development of a Taxonomy of Workplace Bullying Intervention Types: Informing Research Directions and Supporting Organizational Decision Making
Authors: Caponecchia Carlo , Branch Sara , Murray Jane P.
Published: January 2019

Recently much has been done to increase our understanding of workplace bullying including its causes, consequences, and prevalence. Although identification of possible interventions has advanced the field, systematic evidence on the efficacy and effectiveness of specific interventions is lacking. At the same time, organizations are under increasing pressure to prevent and manage workplace bullying more effectively. The aim of this study is to develop and refine a taxonomy of workplace bullying intervention types. Although it does not assess the evidence base of interventions per se, the taxonomy is designed to support the development of research into the future and guide organizations in their decision making when implementing interventions. Using a two-round Delphi process, the expertise of international academics and practitioners ( n = 51 and n = 39) was sought to refine the taxonomy, which classified interventions in terms of mode, focus, agent, specificity, and timecourse. Eleven core intervention types were endorsed as appropriate inclusions in the taxonomy of workplace bullying intervention types. A further six, including mediation, failed to reach consensus among the expert panel. The resulting taxonomy forms a framework to guide workplace bullying intervention efficacy and effectiveness research from a common understanding of the definition, scope, and properties of interventions. Once this occurs, the taxonomy can be used by organizations to audit their existing programs, prioritize new interventions, and consider alternate options. Intervention types that did not reach consensus highlight areas of particular research need, which, when undertaken will add to an evidence base and will be included in future versions of the taxonomy.
Villous Adenoma Arising in the Native Bladder Mucosa and the Upper Urinary Tract With Coexisting Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Following Augmentation Cystoplasty
Authors: Nayak Anupma , Depasquale Brittany , Vergara Norge , Guzzo Thomas A. , Lal Priti
Published: January 2019

Villous adenomas arising in the bladder following augmentation cystoplasty procedures are exceedingly rare. Even rarer is their occurrence in the native bladder mucosa and the upper urinary tract. In this article, we present a unique case of multifocal recurrent villous adenoma involving native bladder mucosa of an augmented bladder, bilateral ureters, and renal pelvis, with coexistent foci of adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine carcinoma, in a patient with history of augmentation colocystoplasty. We additionally discuss the pathogenesis of development of carcinoma in the setting of augmentation cystoplasty.
Propofol-based balanced anesthesia is safer in pediatric radiotherapy
Authors: Yıldırım İlknur , İ Çelik Ayça , B Bay Sema , Pasin Özge , Tütüncü Ayşe Ç
Published: January 2019

Backround and purpose

To investigate the incidence of complications related to propofol-based anesthesia and the factors associated with complications in children with radiotherapy.

Materials and methods

Patients who underwent anesthesia for external beam radiotherapy between May 2013 and November 2017 were included in the study. We assessed the age/weight, sex, oncologic diagnosis, type of radiotherapy procedure, duration of anesthesia, applied agents, and complications related to anesthesia. Complications were evaluated between group I (only propofol group) and group II (propofol plus adjuvant drugs) as respiratory and cardiac.

Results

In 130 patients, sedation was given for 1376 radiotherapy procedures. Of these, 1274 (1140 radiation treatment sessions and 134 computed tomography simulations) in 126 patients were propofol-based and were included in the analysis. Although respiratory complications are the most common in both groups, there were no episodes of laryngospasm, broncospasm, and no use of advanced airway intervention. The rate of complication was significantly higher in only propofol anesthesia group than in patients treated with propofol plus adjuvant drugs. In the multivariate analysis, we found three factors that were significantly associated with the risk of complications: total dose of propofol (mg/kg) (p < 0.001), anesthesia with propofol alone (as compared to propofol plus adjunct agents) (p = 0.001), and diagnosis of neuroblastoma (as compared to other diagnosis) (p = 0.043).

Conclusion

Propofol-based anesthesia is preferred in order to minimize the rate of complications in radiotherapy anesthesia applications. The use of non-opioid adjuvants in combination with propofol to achieve a balanced anesthesia will also reduce the complications that may be encountered.
White Heterosexual Men, Athletic Bodies, and the Pleasure of Unruly Racialization
Authors: Lawrence Stefan
Published: January 2019

In recent times, the semi-naked male athletic body has become central to the cultural imagination of late modern societies, in turn, inviting comment from social scientists of different shades on the changing gazes of heterosexual men. Interestingly, and despite frequently appearing in sport and leisure media, the racialized aspects of this change are yet to be explored fully. This article, therefore, considers how white heterosexual men (de)construct and (re)attach gendered and sexualized meanings to those male athletic bodies they struggle to define “racially.” Borrowing Gilroy’s use of the term “unruly,” which he employs to capture those moments of multiculture that are hard to “home” culturally or geographically, I refer to this struggle as a process of unruly racialization. After analyzing interviews with twenty-two self-identifying white, British, heterosexual men, this article argues that male bodies racialized as unruly are marked with varying degrees of intrigue, jealously, admiration, and fear. I conclude by reflecting on the extent to which this cultural shift can be read as a move toward a future beyond “race.”
Material Incentives and Other Potential Factors Associated With Response Rates to Internet Surveys of American Evaluation Association Members: Findings From a Randomized Experiment
Authors: Coryn Chris L. S. , Becho Lyssa W. , Westine Carl D. , Mateu Pedro F. , Abu-Obaid Ruqayyah N. , Hobson Kristin A. , Schröter Daniela C. , Dodds Erica L. , Vo Anne T. , Ramlow Mary
Published: January 2019

Internet surveys of American Evaluation Association (AEA) members are a common method for studying evaluation practice. Response rates obtained from Internet surveys of AEA members are, however, frequently very small. To investigate whether or not material incentives increase response rates to Internet surveys of AEA members, a between-subjects three-treatment and one control randomized experiment in which a randomly selected sample of AEA members were randomly assigned to a no-incentive control condition, lottery condition, token incentive condition, or philanthropic donation incentive condition was utilized. The overall response rate to the survey was 39.66% and the response rates for each of the four conditions were control = 36.24%, lottery = 44.39%, token incentive = 43.28%, and philanthropic donation = 34.67%, respectively. The cost-effectiveness of each of the four conditions also was examined, demonstrating that the lottery was the most cost-effective. Other factors potentially influencing response or nonresponse decisions also are discussed.
A Pilot Study Using a Multistaged Integrated Analysis of Gene Expression and Methylation to Evaluate Mechanisms for Evening Fatigue in Women Who Received Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer
Authors: Flowers Elena , Flentje Annesa , Levine Jon , Olshen Adam , Hammer Marilyn , Paul Steven , Conley Yvette , Miaskowski Christine , Kober Kord M.
Published: January 2019

Context:

Fatigue is the most common symptom associated with cancer and its treatment. Investigation of molecular mechanisms associated with fatigue may identify new therapeutic targets.

Objective:

The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the relationships between gene expression and methylation status and evening fatigue severity in women with breast cancer who received chemotherapy.

Methods:

Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify evening fatigue phenotypes. In this analysis, the lowest (i.e., moderate, n = 7) and highest (i.e., very high, n = 29) fatigue-severity classes identified using LCA were analyzed via two stages. First, a total of 32,609 transcripts from whole blood were evaluated for differences in expression levels between the classes. Next, 637 methylation sites located within the putative transcription factor binding sites for those genes demonstrating differential expression were evaluated for differential methylation state between the classes.

Results:

A total of 89 transcripts in 75 unique genes were differentially expressed between the moderate (the lowest fatigue-severity class identified) and very high evening fatigue classes. In addition, 23 differentially methylated probes and three differentially methylated regions were found between the moderate and very high evening fatigue classes.

Conclusions:

Using a multistaged integrated analysis of gene expression and methylation, differential methylation was identified in the regulatory regions of genes associated with previously hypothesized mechanisms for fatigue, including inflammation, immune function, neurotransmission, circadian rhythm, skeletal muscle energy, carbohydrate metabolism, and renal function as well as core biological processes including gene transcription and the cell-cycle regulation.
Genetic Variants and the Cortisol Response in Children: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Ersig Anne L. , Schutte Debra L. , Standley Jennifer , Leslie Elizabeth J. , Zimmerman Bridget , Hanrahan Kirsten , Murray Jeffrey C. , McCarthy Ann Marie
Published: January 2019

Objective:

We examined genomic variation potentially associated with the cortisol stress response in children having a painful medical procedure.

Design:

Children 4–10 years old having a peripheral intravenous line inserted provided saliva samples for evaluation of the cortisol response as a biological measure of distress: two on the day of the procedure and two at home on a nonstressful day for comparison values. Children and biological parents also provided samples for genotyping of variants with known or suspected association with the cortisol stress response. Analysis included child-only association and family-based transmission disequilibrium tests (TDTs).

Results:

Genotype and phenotype data on the cortisol stress response were available from 326 children for child-only association analyses and 376 complete family trios for TDTs. Children were 50% female, an average of 7.5 years old, and mostly (83%) White/non-Hispanic. We identified four single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) potentially associated with the cortisol stress response: rs1176744 ( HTR3B), rs10062367 ( CRHBP), rs634479 ( OPRM1), and rs8030107 ( NTRK3). Family-based analysis identified a two-SNP haplotype in HTR1B suggestive for association with the cortisol response (rs6296, rs11568817). Allelic TDTs identified rs7897947 ( NFKB2) as potentially related to cortisol response.

Conclusions:

Findings provide preliminary evidence for genes potentially important in cortisol response to an acute stressor in children in the serotonin, dopamine, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor pathways, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, and the inflammatory response. Combined with analyses of related phenotypes and clinical data, these results could help identify patients at increased risk of adverse responses to painful medical procedures who might benefit from tailored interventions.
The Fraction Exhaled Nitric Oxide as a Biomarker of Asthma Control
Authors: de Abreu Fernanda Cruvinel , da Silva Júnior Jose Laerte Rodrigues , Rabahi Marcelo Fouad
Published: January 2019

Introduction and Objective:

The main goal of asthma treatment is to achieve and maintain clinical control of the disease. The exhaled fraction nitric oxide (FeNO) level is a biomarker of T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) inflammation of the airways. Our objective was to determine whether the FeNO level can be used to discriminate between patients with controlled, partially controlled, and uncontrolled asthma.

Materials and Methods:

The FeNO level and asthma control were evaluated in a retrospective and analytic cross-sectional study through data collected from asthmatic patients who were assessed by clinical history, asthma control, physical examination, spirometry, and FeNO level. Asthma control was determined by the criteria of the Global Initiative for Asthma and classified as controlled asthma, partially controlled asthma, and uncontrolled asthma. The FeNO values were classified as low (<25 ppb) or intermediate/high (⩾25 ppb) based on the American Thoracic Society recommendations.

Results:

The symptoms of 81 asthmatic patients were classified as controlled (34 [42%] patients), partially controlled (27 [33.3%] patients), and uncontrolled (20 [24.7%] patients). The FeNO level discriminated between the uncontrolled and controlled groups ( P = .01) and between the uncontrolled and partially controlled groups ( P = .01), but not between the controlled and partially controlled groups ( P = .98). An FeNO level >30 ppb was associated with uncontrolled asthma ( P = .0001) with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.78 (95% confidence interval = 0.65-0.89).

Conclusions:

FeNO level could be helpful in determining asthma control as >30 ppb was associated with uncontrolled asthma.
Adrenocorticotropic Hormone-Dependent Cushing Syndrome Caused by an Olfactory Neuroblastoma
Authors: Familiar Cristina , Azcutia Ane
Published: January 2019

Olfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is an unusual malignant neoplasm originating from the olfactory neuroepithelium. Secretion of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from this tumor has been exceptionally reported. We describe a young man with resistant hypertension and a cushingoid phenotype. After hormonal confirmation of an ACTH-dependent Cushing syndrome, non-invasive dynamic tests were carried out to evaluate the cause of the ACTH source. Plasma cortisol decrease after a high-dose dexamethasone suppression test and cortisol increase after a desmopressin (DDAVP) stimulation test suggested a Cushing disease. A magnetic resonance image (MRI) of the brain and an Indium-111 octreotide scan revealed a large mass centered in the sphenoid sinus with lateral and posterior extension. An ACTH secreting ONB was confirmed with a trasnasal biopsy. Patient was offered a combined therapy with surgical resection and radiotherapy but refused surgery. The neoplasm was treated with neoadjuvant cisplatin-based chemotherapy followed by fractionated radiotherapy. Hypercortisolism initially improved with metyrapone but normocortisolism was only achieved after local control of the tumor with radiotherapy. Clinical presentation of ONB is usually related to local symptoms (as nasal obstruction and epistaxis) dependent on its ubication and extension. Cushing syndrome from ACTH production is a rare manifestation of ONB. This case also underlies the difficulties related to the interpretation of dynamic endocrine tests in Cushing syndrome.
Ingroup and outgroup interconnectedness predict and promote political ideology through empathy
Authors: Sparkman David J. , Eidelman Scott , Till Derrick F.
Published: January 2019

In 4 studies ( N = 886), we investigate the effect of intergroup interconnectedness on political ideology and examine whether this is mediated through empathy. In Study 1, ingroup interconnectedness predicted approval and outgroup interconnectedness disapproval of the Trump administration’s executive order on immigration, and empathy toward immigrants differentially mediated these relationships. In Study 2, ingroup interconnectedness negatively predicted and outgroup interconnectedness positively predicted liberalism, whereas the opposite relationships were found for conservatism. Moreover, outgroup interconnectedness positively predicted liberalism through greater empathy, but negatively predicted conservatism through less empathy. Manipulating outgroup interconnectedness (against a control) increased outgroup empathy and liberalism, decreased conservatism (Study 3a), and increased support for a liberal welfare policy (Study 3b), but these effects on ideology only occurred indirectly through greater outgroup empathy. Overall, results suggest ingroup and outgroup interconnectedness differentially predict and promote political ideology through empathy.
Continuity of care and multiple chronic conditions impact frequent use of outpatient services
Authors: Wang Chi , Kuo Hsiao-Ching , Cheng Su-Fen , Hung Jui-Lan , Xiong Jia-Hui , Tang Pei-Ling
Published: January 2019

This study investigated the association between care continuity and chronic conditions in relation to highly frequent use of outpatient service in order to find constructive suggestions to bring efficient, high-quality care for patients with multiple chronic conditions. The National Health Insurance database was used and 333,294 patients were identified from 2007 to 2009. The continuity of care index indicates the dispersion of a patient’s ambulatory visits among providers. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios with 95 percent confidence intervals. Continuity of care index was significantly associated with age, sex, urbanization level, socioeconomic status, emergency department visits, hospitalization, psychological disorders, chronic diseases, and catastrophic illness card; those with low continuity of care index were likely to use outpatient care highly frequently. Improving continuity of care is fundamental, and the best way is to advance the practice of family medicine for primary care.
Primitive accumulation and Chinese mirrors
Authors: Barbalet Jack
Published: January 2019

A consensus holds that the structure of Capital I is problematic. In particular, the section ‘So-called Primitive Accumulation’ discusses the origins of capitalism but appears at the end of the volume rather than at the beginning. Even more anomalous, the forecast of the revolutionary overthrow of the capitalist class is in the penultimate chapter. The final chapter, ‘The Modern Theory of Colonization’, is regarded by commentators as enigmatic, if they refer to it at all. This article, on the other hand, shows that Marx considered the structure of Capital over a number of years and that his discussion of Wakefield’s theory of colonization is part of an account of the continuing centrifugal regeneration of capitalist relations beyond the sites of mature capitalism. The article addresses the failure of commentators from Mehring to Harvey to appreciate the logic of Capital’s chapter structure. The contemporary resonance of Marx’s account of capitalist development at the periphery of the global capitalist system is indicated by considering primitive accumulation in two distinct phases of China’s history.
Marx, financial capitalism and the fractured society: Using Bhaskar’s dialectical critical realism to frame a transformatory sociological programme of action for resistance and change
Authors: Scambler Sasha , Scambler Graham
Published: January 2019

This article begins by considering the relevance and limitations of Marx’s writings for understanding post-1970s financial capitalism. Two specific propositions are outlined and developed. The first is that twenty-first-century financial capitalism is conspicuously vulnerable to implosion or collapse, notably via a Habermasian ‘legitimation crisis’. The second traces its progressive ‘fracturing’, with references to neoliberal austerity and post-welfarism and their deepening impact on the disadvantaged and vulnerable and the sick and disabled. The article then turns to Bhaskar’s dialectical critical realism, suggesting, and attempting to show, that it lends additional philosophical and theoretical weight (‘deepens’ in Bhaskar’s terms) the reach and range of Marxian analyses. The third part of the article focuses on Bhaskar’s evolving theory of transformative – or emancipatory – action. It is contended that his account grounds and allows for rational and compelling resistance to financial capitalism’s neoliberal status quo. In the concluding section, the affinity between Bhaskar’s (neo-Marxian) theory of transformative action and the present authors’ concept of ‘action sociology’ is outlined. The article concludes with a manifesto for an action sociology oriented to ‘absence’, challenging ‘constraining ills’ and imagining and researching ‘alternate futures’.
Self-Expanding Nitinol Stent vs Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty in the Treatment of Femoropopliteal Lesions: 3-Year Data From the SM-01 Trial
Authors: Iida Osamu , Urasawa Kazushi , Komura Yasuo , Soga Yoshimitsu , Inoue Naoto , Hara Hidehiko , Yajima Junji , Nakamura Shigeru , Ohki Takao , Ando Hiroshi , Hirano Keisuke , Horita Yuki , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Yokoi Yoshiaki , Miyamoto Akira , Nakamura Masato , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Mano Toshiaki , Nanto Shinsuke
Published: January 2019

Purpose: To report the midterm outcomes of a trial comparing self-expanding nitinol stents to percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) with provisional stenting in the treatment of obstructive disease in the superficial femoral and popliteal arteries. Materials and Methods: The SM-01 study ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01183117), a single-blinded, multicenter, randomized controlled trial in Japan, enrolled 105 consecutive patients with de novo or postangioplasty restenotic femoropopliteal lesions; after removing protocol violations (1 from each group), 51 patients (mean age 74±8 years; 36 men) in the stent group and 52 patients (mean age 73±8 years; 35 men) in the PTA group were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. The groups were well-matched at baseline. Patients were followed to 36 months with duplex imaging. Three-year primary patency was assessed based on a duplex-derived peak systolic velocity ratio <2.5. Freedom from clinically-driven target vessel revascularization (TVR) and target lesions revascularization (TLR) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: The technical success rate was higher (100% vs 48%, p<0.001) and the frequency of vascular dissection was lower (4% vs 31%, p<0.001) in the stent group. The S.M.A.R.T stent group had a higher 3-year primary patency rate (73% vs 51%, p=0.033). Freedom from clinically-driven TVR and TLR were not significantly different between the groups. Conclusion: The S.M.A.R.T. stent maintained a higher primary patency rate than PTA at 3 years in this randomized trial; the need for clinically-driven revascularization was similar for both therapies.
The Space-Time Continuum of Cortical Dysplasia
Authors: Jansen Laura A.
Published: January 2019

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Seizures, Nonepileptic Events, Trauma, Anxiety, or All of the Above
Authors: Salpekar Jay
Published: January 2019

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Messaging and Multivitamin Use: Rethinking the “It Can’t Hurt” Philosophy
Authors: White Nicole D.
Published: January 2019

Fifty-two percent of American adults report use of a dietary supplement, most commonly for improved health and disease prevention. However, literature supporting such use is inconsistent. Many providers suggest that the addition of a multivitamin “couldn’t hurt,” but this messaging may promote unintentional consequences including a shift of emphasis on intake of healthy foods to nutrient supplements and a neglected opportunity to discuss the profound benefits of a healthy diet. Potential implications of such messaging and recommendations for counseling are described.
Use of paraffin instead of lukewarm water prior to hand exercises had no additional effect on hand mobility in patients with systemic sclerosis: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Kristensen Lola Q , Oestergaard Lisa G , Bovbjerg Karina , Rolving Nanna , Søndergaard Klaus
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Systemic sclerosis is a connective tissue disease associated with significantly impaired hand mobility, which may hamper activities of daily living. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect on hand mobility and health status of patients with systemic sclerosis of warming up hands with paraffin compared with warming up hands in lukewarm water prior to hand exercises.

Methods

Patients were allocated to receive either warm-up treatment with water or paraffin prior to hand exercises for a period of six months. Primary outcome was Hand Mobility in Scleroderma (HAMIS), while secondary outcomes included SF-36 and measurements of fingertips to proximal and distal palmar crease. Follow-up assessments were conducted 3, 6 and 12 months post baseline.

Results

Ninety patients were enrolled in the study and 56 patients completed. No statistically significant differences were observed between groups regarding hand mobility post intervention. Within both groups, hand mobility improved on the HAMIS six months post baseline with −2.6 points (95% CI: −4.4; −0.8) in the paraffin group and −3.3 points (95% CI: −5.2; −1.5) in the water group. Improvements were maintained at 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Our findings suggested that warm-up with paraffin compared to lukewarm water prior to hand exercises in patients with systemic sclerosis had no additional effect on hand mobility. Results may have been affected by the high dropout rate and statistical errors underestimating a possible effect.
Nasal Glucagon Versus Injectable Glucagon for Severe Hypoglycemia: A Cost-Offset and Budget Impact Analysis
Authors: Pöhlmann Johannes , Mitchell Beth D. , Bajpai Sanjay , Osumili Beatrice , Valentine William J.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Severe hypoglycemic events (SHEs) in patients with diabetes are associated with substantial health care costs in the United States (US). Injectable glucagon (IG) is currently available for treatment of severe hypoglycemia but is associated with frequent handling errors. Nasal glucagon (NG) is a novel, easier-to-use treatment that is more often administered successfully. The economic impact of this usability advantage was explored in cost-offset and budget impact analyses for the US setting.

Methods:

A health economic model was developed to estimate mean costs per SHE for which treatment was attempted using NG or IG, which differed only in the probability of treatment success, based on a published usability study. The budget impact of NG was projected over 2 years for patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes treated with basal-bolus insulin (T2D-BB). Epidemiologic and cost data were sourced from the literature and/or fee schedules.

Results:

Mean costs were $992 lower if NG was used compared with IG per SHE for which a user attempted treatment. NG was estimated to reduce SHE-related spending by $1.1 million and $230 000 over 2 years in 10 000 patients each with T1D and T2D-BB, respectively. Reduced spending resulted from reduced professional emergency services utilization as successful treatment was more likely with NG.

Conclusions:

The usability advantage of NG over IG was projected to reduce SHE-related treatment costs in the US setting. NG has the potential to improve hypoglycemia emergency care and reduce SHE-related treatment costs.
When Should a Brand Cut Ties With a Scandalized Endorser?
Authors: Sato Shintaro , Arai Akiko , Tsuji Yosuke , Kay Mark
Published: January 2019

It is important for brands to appropriately respond when their athlete endorsers are involved in a scandal. The present study examines how consumer evaluations of endorsed brands are influenced by a brand’s response to an endorser scandal. A 2 (brand response strategy type: maintenance vs. termination) × 2 (endorser scandal type: competence-relevant vs. competence-irrelevant) between-subjects experiment is conducted. Specifically, the authors focus on the perceived appropriateness of the response strategy and consumer attitudes toward an endorsed brand. Subjects were recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk ( N = 111). Consumers perceive that terminating an endorsement contract with a scandalized endorser is more appropriate than maintaining the relationship. This is particularly true when celebrity endorsers are involved in competence-relevant scandals. A further analysis provided support for the idea that perceived “appropriateness” mediates the relationship between competence-relevant scandal and consumer attitude toward an endorsed brand. A termination strategy was considered appropriate when scandalized endorsers engaged in competence-relevant scandals, which eventually lead to more favorable consumer evaluations toward an endorsed brand.
History of skin thickness assessment and the Rodnan skin thickness scoring method in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Medsger Thomas A , Benedek Thomas G
Published: January 2019

The pathology of skin involvement in systemic sclerosis (or scleroderma) was first described in detail in 1892. In this article, we trace the history of cutaneous scleroderma and the evolution of thinking of scholars who have addressed this topic. We focus on skin histopathologic abnormalities and both clinical and laboratory techniques proposed for quantifying skin thickening and mobility. We examine the development of the simple bedside physical examination method of Dr Gerald Rodnan, first published in the 1970s and subsequently modified by others in the early 1990s (modified Rodnan skin score). This method has been found to be the only completely validated technique for assessing skin thickness in systemic sclerosis. Now nearly 50 years later, the modified Rodnan skin thickness scoring system remains the gold standard for use in both systemic sclerosis clinical trials and observational studies.
Top-down Paternalism Versus Bottom-up Community Development: A Case Study of Compulsory Income Management Programmes in Australia
Authors: Mendes Philip
Published: January 2019

The compulsory income management or welfare quarantining programmes introduced by Australian governments over the past 11 years have provoked major public contention. One key source of conflict has been around whether these programmes have been introduced via co-design processes enabling the consent of local communities, or alternatively whether they are merely top-down programmes imposed with minimum consultation on specific geographical sites. This article argues that most consultation processes have been limited and tokenistic, and rarely included actual income management participants. An alternative bottom-up community development process is proposed based on the principles such as social inclusion, participation and empowerment.