bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characteristics and risk factors of pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Yan Shumin , Li Mengtao , Wang Hui , Yang Xiaoxi , Zhao Jiuliang , Wang Qian , Liu Yongtai , Lai Jinzhi , Tian Zhuang , Song Hui , Zhao Yan , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: April 2018

Aim

To describe baseline characteristics of patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) with right heart catheterization (RHC)‐confirmed pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and explore risk factors for PAH in pSS.

Methods

This case–control study included consecutive patients hospitalized with pSS–PAH from 2007 to 2015, and pSS patients without PAH (in a 4 : 1 ratio) as controls. All patients fulfilled the 2002 American‐European Consensus Group classification criteria for pSS–PAH was defined according to RHC‐based European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society guidelines. Associated variables were analyzed by univariate binary logistic regression to identify possible risk factors for PAH.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients with RHC‐confirmed pSS‐PAH were included (mean age at onset, 38.4 ± 8.3 years; mean pSS duration, 54.6 months). PAH was the initial manifestation of pSS in 12 patients (41.4%), and shortness of breath was the most common symptom (29/29, 100%). Mean pulmonary arterial pressure was 51.8 ± 10.0 mmHg, mean cardiac index was 2.3 ± 0.8 L/min/m2, and mean pulmonary vascular resistance was 13.0 ± 6.0 Wood units in this group. Treatments included immunosuppressive agents (93.1%) and PAH‐targeted therapies (86.2%). We identified four independent risk factors for PAH in pSS: Raynaud's phenomenon (odds ratio [OR] = 9.660, P = 0.000), rheumatoid factor ≥ 200 U/mL (OR = 6.691, P = 0.001), hepatic injury (OR = 3.284, P = 0.008) and pericardial effusion (OR = 3.279, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

PAH can be the first manifestation of pSS. The pSS patients with Raynaud's phenomenon, high‐titer rheumatoid factor, hepatic injury or pericardial effusion should be screened for PAH.
Study on association of human leukocyte antigen‐DRB1 alleles amongst Bangladeshi patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Begum Maksuma , Sattar Humayun , Haq Syed A. , Islam Md. Nazrul , Saha Sushanta K. , Hassan M. Masudul , Saha Ritu , Kabir Md. Shahriar
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, systemic and autoimmune disease affecting 0.5–1% of the world population. Genetic and environmental factors are already established as being involved in the development of RA. Different human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRB1 alleles have major pathogenic effects to the development of RA.

Objective

To determine the HLA‐DRB1 allelic frequency of RA in one Bangladeshi tertiary care center.

Methods

This case–control study was conducted at the Microbiology and Rheumatology Department of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). Fifty‐two patients diagnosed as having RA and 52 healthy controls were enrolled. Buccal swabs were collected from all subjects and HLA‐DRB1 typing was carried out with polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific primers (PCR‐SSP) of low resolution. Blood was also collected for auto‐antibodies (rheumatoid factor [RF] and anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide [anti‐CCP]) detection from all subjects. RF was detected by nephelometry and anti‐CCP was detected by using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method. Statistical associations of HLA antigen between the groups were determined by chi‐square test.

Results

In RA patients DR*04 and DR*10 were found at the DRB1 locus at higher frequencies (20.5%, P = 0.0035 and 18.3%, P = 0.0045, respectively). However, the frequency of DR*15 was significantly lower (P = 0.005) in RA cases (18.3%) than the control group (35.6%). The frequencies of autoantibodies (anti‐CCP and RF) were compared between approximate shared epitope (SE) positive and SE negative patients, and no significant association was found.

Conclusions

In this study DRB1*04 and DRB1*10 alleles were significantly associated with RA patients while DRB1*15 was found more in the control group.
PhyMet2: a database and toolkit for phylogenetic and metabolic analyses of methanogens
Authors: Michał Burdukiewicz , Gagat Przemysław , Jabłoński Sławomir , Chilimoniuk Jarosław , Gaworski Michał , Mackiewicz Paweł , Marcin Łukaszewicz
Published: April 2018

The vast biodiversity of the microbial world and how little is known about it, has already been revealed by extensive metagenomics analyses. Our rudimentary knowledge of microbes stems from difficulties concerning their isolation and culture in laboratory conditions, which is necessary for describing their phenotype, among other things, for biotechnological purposes. An important component of the understudied ecosystems is methanogens, archaea producing a potent greenhouse‐effect gas methane. Therefore, we created PhyMet2, the first database that combines descriptions of methanogens and their culturing conditions with genetic information. The database contains a set of utilities that facilitate interactive data browsing, data comparison, phylogeny exploration and searching for sequence homologues. The most unique feature of the database is the web server MethanoGram, which can be used to significantly reduce the time and cost of searching for the optimal culturing conditions of methanogens by predicting them based on 16S RNA sequences. The database will aid many researchers in exploring the world of methanogens and their applications in biotechnological processes. PhyMet2 with the MethanoGram predictor is available at http://metanogen.biotech.uni.wroc.pl
Present and changing trends in surgical modalities and neoadjuvant chemotherapy administration for female breast cancer in Beijing, China: A 10‐year (2006–2015) retrospective hospitalization summary report‐based study
Authors: Bao Xiaoyuan , Sun Kexin , Tian Xin , Yin Qiongzhou , Jin Meng , Yu Na , Jiang Hanfang , Zhang Jun , Hu Yonghua
Published: April 2018

Background

This study was conducted to describe present and changing trends in surgical modalities and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) in female breast cancer patients in China from 2006 to 2015.

Methods

Data of 44 299 female breast cancer patients from 15 tertiary hospitals in Beijing were extracted from hospitalization summary reports. Surgeries were categorized into five modalities: breast‐conserving surgery (BCS), simple mastectomy (SM), modified radical mastectomy (MRM), radical mastectomy (RM), and extensive radical mastectomy (ERM).

Results

In total, 38 471 (86.84%) breast cancer patients underwent surgery: 22.64% BCS, 8.22% SM, 63.97% MRM, 4.24% RM, and 0.93% ERM. Older patients (> 60) underwent surgery more frequently than younger patients (< 60). The proportion of patients who underwent BCS was highest in the age ≥ 80 (39.24%) and < 40 (28.69%) subgroups and in patients with papillary carcinoma (35.48%), and lowest in the age 60‐ subgroup (18.17%) and in patients with Paget's disease (19.05%). SM was most frequently performed in patients with Paget's disease (29.00%), and MRM for ductal (64.99%), and lobular (63.78%) carcinomas. During the study period, the proportion of patients who underwent MRM dropped by 29.04%, SM and BCS increased from 15.78% and 30.83%, respectively, and NACT increased in all subgroups, particularly in patients with lymph node involvement (26.72%).

Conclusions

Surgical modalities varied significantly by age and histologic group. The use of BCS and SM increased dramatically, while MRM declined significantly. The proportion of patients treated with NACT has increased significantly, especially in patients with lymph node involvement.
Canadian Financial Reporting Institutions
Authors: Thornton Daniel B.
Published: April 2018

The recently published Easy Prey Investors: Why Broken Safety Nets Threaten Your Wealth lambastes virtually every aspect of Canadian financial reporting in exceptionally harsh terms. Although the authors' assertions about the implications of financial reporting violations they have seen are mostly unsubstantiated or overblown, publications like theirs are useful if they stimulate continual, thoughtful consideration of Canada's institutional arrangements. I discuss various methodologies for doing this and present some novel evidence indicating that some of the authors' assertions are simply incorrect. Canada's financial reporting institutions, like all institutions, are not perfect, so we must always listen to their critics' suggestions for reforming them; however, our institutions are in much better shape than Easy Prey Investors asserts.
The contemporary management of third molars
Authors: Hyam DM
Published: April 2018

The management of third molars requires a significant assessment and decision process both for the patient and the clinician. The clinician must always identify the indication for third molar surgery, assess the risks of the proposed procedure, and then modify their plan to account for the patient's current and future health, their social and financial setting, and the patient's tolerance of risk. In doing this, the clinician can tailor a solution to meet the individual patient's needs. This decision to remove a third molar is made in the fluid setting of the patient's quality of life and requires regular review. This article gives the clinician the tools, the matrix, and the confidence to guide patients through this process, and outlines some of the pitfalls and common points of bias within the process.
Craniofacial disorders
Authors: Heggie AA
Published: April 2018

The complexity of the craniofacial patient mandates the cooperation of a multidisciplinary team that can systematically evaluate each individual and ensure that a protocol‐driven pathway is undertaken for the best patient care. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons contribute to surgical care in this setting with specific knowledge of growth and development of the face. This enables optimum timing for early skeletal correction where appropriate, and definitive surgery following the cessation of growth to maximize function and aesthetics. This chapter will describe the major principles in managing patients with specific craniofacial anomalies and provide examples of the outcomes possible.
A randomized controlled trial of a gender‐focused addiction model versus 12‐step facilitation for women veterans
Authors: Najavits Lisa M. , Enggasser Justin , Brief Deborah , Federman Edward
Published: April 2018

Background and Objectives

Substance use disorder (SUD) has increased among women, including military veterans, yet SUD treatment was historically designed for males. This randomized controlled trial compared 12 individual sessions of a gender‐focused SUD recovery model, A Woman's Path to Recovery (WPR) to an evidence‐based, non‐gender‐focused SUD model, 12‐Step Facilitation (TSF) for 66 women veterans with current severe SUD.

Methods

The primary outcome was substance use; secondary outcomes were associated problems (e.g., psychological); coping skills, and 12‐step attendance, with assessment at baseline, end‐of‐treatment, and 3‐month followup.

Results

Substance use decreased over time, with no difference between conditions. Decreases occurred from baseline to end‐of‐treatment and baseline to followup and, for drug severity, also from end‐of‐treatment to followup. Effect sizes were large for alcohol and medium otherwise. Secondary outcomes were largely consistent with this pattern of improvement. Urinalysis/breathalyzer supported self‐report. Treatment attendance was 62% for WPR and 57% for TSF (not significantly different). Twelve‐step group attendance, surprisingly, did not increase in either condition.

Discussion and Conclusions

WPR provides a useful addition to women's SUD treatment options, with outcomes no different than an established evidence‐based model, TSF. Both showed positive impact on substance use and related areas. Our lack of differences based on gender‐focus may reflect women veterans being acculturated to a male military environment. Limitations include lack of an untreated control, a sample limited to veterans, and use of a large effect size for power assumptions.

Scientific Significance

This is the first RCT of a gender‐focused approach for women veterans with SUD. (Am J Addict 2018;27:210–216)
Plant biodiversity patterns along a climatic gradient and across protected areas in West Africa
Authors: Da Sié Sylvestre , García Márquez Jaime Ricardo , Sommer Jan Henning , Thiombiano Adjima , Zizka Georg , Dressler Stefan , Schmidt Marco , Chatelain Cyrille , Barthlott Wilhelm
Published: April 2018

Knowledge of spatial patterns of biological diversity is fundamental for ecological and biogeographical analyses and for priority setting in nature conservation, particularly in West Africa where the existing high biodiversity is increasingly threatened by human activities. The maximum entropy approach was used to model the geographic distribution of 3,393 vascular plant species at a spatial resolution of 0.0833°. Species richness decreases along temperature and precipitation gradients with high species numbers in the south and lower numbers towards the north of the transect. All centres of plant species diversity are confined to humid areas in concordance with the high positive correlation between species richness and rainfall which appears to be the most important delimiter for the distribution ranges of many species in the area. The effectiveness of the existing protected areas at regional and national levels is investigated based on the proportion of species covered. Considering the whole study area, 95% of all species are covered by protected areas according to their distribution ranges. However, the proportion of species covered is considerably lower for some countries such as Benin and Togo. Our results could provide guidance for essential land use management interventions to decision‐makers and conservationists in the region.
Birth of the Modern Corporation: From Servant of the State to Semi‐Sovereign Power
Authors: Cerri Luigi
Published: April 2018

It is widely known that large business corporations have accumulated enormous political and economic power since the early 20th century. They not only create barriers to entry to small firms in the economic domain, they also pose a serious threat to democracy by dominating public discourse and occupying a wide range of public spaces. Efforts to halt or reverse the growth of corporate power have been largely ineffective, in large part because they have been entirely reactive. In order for citizens to reclaim the economy and politics, a new strategy is necessary, one that starts by analyzing the source of corporate power. The method of analysis in this article is historical, specifically the history of changes in the United States of the legal instruments of incorporation and their relationship to emerging conditions in the economy and business. In the first half of the 19th century, corporations were chartered by state governments to carry out public benefit activities, particularly infrastructure projects. These mixed corporations lost favor during the depression of the 1840s and were replaced by private for‐profit corporations that continued using the same debt financing instruments employed by states. They were also still regulated by the states that issued their charters. When corporations sought to avoid competition by creating cartels, they had difficulty maintaining discipline and discovered they needed new rights in order to gain permanent control of markets. In the 1890s, they were granted the status of “natural persons,” with the legal protections of citizens, but they also gained the right to buy other corporations, thereby solidifying their market power and making them largely autonomous from public control. Each transition was contested, but when it was completed, it seemed to the public as if corporations had always had their new powers. In order to regain the power to hold corporations accountable to the public, those old contested issues need to be brought back into public discourse, so that citizens might decide for themselves how much power corporations should have.
The Genre of Prime Ministerial Anzac Day Addresses, 1973–2016
Authors: Bromfield Nicholas
Published: April 2018

The last quarter of a century has seen an explosion in prime ministerial engagement with Anzac, and in particular, the marking of Anzac Day with a national address. Correspondingly, there has also been enormous interest in Anzac from members of the academy, but there has been little systematic analysis of the breadth and depth of prime ministerial Anzac Day addresses. This paper seeks to correct this omission by conducting a critical discourse analysis of prime ministerial Anzac Day addresses from 1973 to 2016 in order to sketch their imprecise, but increasingly institutionalised and consistent, genre boundaries. The paper delineates the various thematic and characteristic features of these addresses, including where and when the addresses have been delivered; the fixity and hybridisation of the prime ministerial Anzac speech genre; the thematic and tonal representations of Anzac; the wars and battles prime ministers associate Anzac with; and who Anzac's agents are. As will be shown, whilst Australian prime ministers may closely adhere to the traditions of Anzac with their addresses, they also subtly renovate understandings of Anzac in alignment with their policy agendas.
The Good Country: The Djadja Wurrung, the Settlers and the Protectors
Authors: McGregor Russell
Published: April 2018

The Good Country: The Djadja Wurrung, the Settlers and the Protectors. By Bain Attwood (Melbourne: Monash University Publishing, 2017), pp.xiv + 225. AU$29.95 (pb).
Making Mala: Malaita in Solomon Islands, 1870s – 1930s
Authors: Frazer Ian
Published: April 2018

Making Mala: Malaita in Solomon Islands, 1870s – 1930s. By Clive Moore (Canberra: ANU Press (Pacific Series), 2017), pp. xxvii + 550. Seventeen Maps. AU$68.00 (pb).
Thailand's Theory of Monarchy: The Vessantara Jataka and the Idea of the Perfect Man
Authors: Subrahmanyan Arjun
Published: April 2018

Thailand's Theory of Monarchy: The Vessantara Jataka and the Idea of the Perfect Man. By Patrick Jory (New York: SUNY Press, 2016), £62.93 (hb), £17.75 (pb).
Born Weak, Growing Strong: Anti‐Government Protests as a Signal of Rebel Strength in the Context of Civil Wars
Authors: Leventoğlu Bahar , Metternich Nils W.
Published: April 2018

All rebel organizations start weak, but how do they grow and achieve favorable conflict outcomes? We present a theoretical model that allows for rebel organizations to gain support beyond their “core” and build their bargaining power during fighting. We highlight that rebel organizations need to win over crucial parts of society to generate the necessary support that allows them to attain favorable civil conflict outcomes. We find empirical support for the argument that low‐income individuals who initially fight the government (rebel organizations) have to convince middle‐class individuals to turn out against the government to gain government concessions. Empirically, we demonstrate that government concessions in the form of peace agreements and the onset of negotiations become more likely when protest occurs in the context of civil conflicts.

Replication Materials

The data, code, and any additional materials required to replicate all analyses in this article are available on the American Journal of Political Science Dataverse within the Harvard Dataverse Network, at: http://doi.org/10.7910/DVN/MYDZNF.
Rural and remote health research: Does the investment match the need?
Authors: Barclay Lesley , Phillips Andrew , Lyle David
Published: April 2018

Objective

To determine the percentage of research projects funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council in the period 2000–2014 that aimed specifically to deliver health benefits to Australians living in rural and remote areas and to estimate the proportion of total funding this represented in 2005–2014.

Design

This is a retrospective analysis of publicly available datasets.

Setting

National Health and Medical Research Council Rural and Remote Health Research 2000–2014.

Outcome measures

‘Australian Rural Health Research’ was defined as: research that focussed on rural or remote Australia; that related to the National Health and Medical Research Council's research categories other than Basic Science; and aimed specifically to improve the health of Australians living in rural and remote areas. Grants meeting the inclusion criteria were grouped according to the National Health and Medical Research Council's categories and potential benefit. Funding totals were aggregated and compared to the total funding and Indigenous funding for the period 2005–2014.

Results

Of the 16 651 National Health and Medical Research Council‐funded projects, 185 (1.1%) that commenced funding during the period 2000–2014 were defined as ‘Australian Rural Health Research’. The funding for Australian Rural Health Research increased from 1.0% of the total in 2005 to 2.4% in 2014. A summary of the funding according to the National Health and Medical Research Council's research categories and potential benefit is presented.

Conclusion

Addressing the health inequality experienced by rural and remote Australians is a stated aim of the Australian Government. While National Health and Medical Research Council funding for rural health research has increased over the past decade, at 2.4% by value, it appears very low given the extent of the health status and health service deficits faced by the 30% who live in rural Australia.
ROLE AND PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES: A CASE STUDY ON THE STRATEGIC RELEVANCE AND SPECIFICITY OF ENTERPRISES AT THE GERMAN FEDERAL LEVEL
Authors: WARM Stephanie , SCHAEFER Christina , FRIEDLÄNDER Benjamin
Published: April 2018

The public sector has continually faced reforms, modernizations and institutional changes. For the special case of Germany, empirical studies illustrate a high relevance of public enterprises (PEs) for fulfilling public purposes and providing public services. An increasing pressure for effectiveness and efficiency of PEs implicates (new) requirements for analytical procedures to review public tasks in general, but also for making best institutional choices.

Based on the concepts of a critical review of tasks and an in‐depth performance analysis as well as legal obligations, three major PEs at the federal level are systematically analysed according to their strategic relevance and specificity. However, the study provides a mixed picture. Requirements for the explanation of the public interest of the analysed PEs are not sufficiently met. The paper provides a conceptual framework to assess the role and performance of PEs as well as promising results and further implications, both for researchers and practitioners.
Granulocyte and monocyte CD11b expression during plasma separation is dependent on complement factor 5 (C5) – an ex vivo study with blood from a C5‐deficient individual
Authors: Hardersen Randolf , Enebakk Terje , Christiansen Dorte , Bergseth Grethe , Brekke Ole‐Lars , Mollnes Tom Eirik , Lappegård Knut Tore , Hovland Anders
Published: April 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate the role of complement factor 5 (C5) in reactions elicited by plasma separation using blood from a C5‐deficient (C5D) individual, comparing it to C5‐deficient blood reconstituted with C5 (C5DR) and blood from healthy donors. Blood was circulated through an ex vivo plasma separation model. Leukocyte CD11b expression and leukocyte–platelet conjugates were measured by flow cytometry during a 30‐min period. Other markers were assessed during a 240‐min period. Granulocyte and monocyte CD11b expression did not increase in C5D blood during plasma separation. In C5DR samples granulocytes CD11b expression, measured by mean fluorescence intensity (MFI), increased from 10481 ± 6022 (SD) to 62703 ± 4936, and monocytes CD11b expression changed from 13837 ± 7047 to 40063 ± 713. Granulocyte–platelet conjugates showed a 2.5‐fold increase in the C5DR sample compared to the C5D sample. Monocyte–platelet conjugates increased independently of C5. In the C5D samples, platelet count decreased from 210 × 109/L (201–219) (median and range) to 51 × 109/L (50–51), and C3bc increased from 14 CAU/mL (21–7) to 198 CAU/mL (127–269), whereas TCC formation was blocked during plasma separation. In conclusion, up‐regulation of granulocyte and monocyte CD11b during plasma separation was C5‐dependent. The results also indicate C5 dependency in granulocyte–platelet conjugates formation.
Treatment of Stones in Caliceal Diverticula: Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy versus Percutaneous Nephrolitholapaxy
Authors: HENDRIKX A. J. M. , BIERKENS A. F. , BOS R. , OOSTERHOF G. O. N. , DEBRUYNE F. M. J.
Published: April 2018

Stones in caliceal diverticula may cause symptoms for which treatment is indicated. Both extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and percutaneous nephrolitholapaxy (PNL) are recommended.

We have evaluated the results of ESWL treatment of stone‐containing caliceal diverticula and compared these with the results obtained by percutaneous surgery.

In the ESWL group, 15 patients were treated with an electromagnetic lithotriptor (Siemens Lithostar). After 3 months, plain abdominal X‐rays revealed that only 2 patients were both stone‐free and symptom‐free. Of the 13 patients with residual fragments, 7 had no symptoms. The remaining 6 were treated by a lower pole resection (n= 3), a percutaneous procedure (n = 2) and long‐term administration of antibiotics (n = 1).

Sixteen patients were treated percutaneously. Puncture failed in 3 and they underwent a lumbotomy. In the remaining 13 patients the stones were reached by direct puncture (n = 12) or via an adjacent calix (n = 1). After 3 months, 10 patients were stone‐free and had no symptoms. Morbidity consisted of post‐operative bleeding (n = 3) and high fever (n = 1). It was concluded that caution should be exercised in the treatment of stone‐containing caliceal diverticula. Only in symptomatic cases is treatment indicated and ESWL is the first choice. If ESWL fails (residual stones and persistent symptoms), PNL should be performed, although it is associated with a higher morbidity rate.
Does Too Much Urology Damage Your Eyesight? Study of Macular Function
Authors: PHILLIPS P. M. , DEAN F. M. , REFFIN J. , BRIGGS T. P. , MILLER R. A. , DAVEY C. C.
Published: April 2018

A study comparing the macular function of both eyes of 130 urological surgeons was carried out to investigate whether the increased light exposure to the endoscoping eye caused any deterioration of macular function. The non‐endoscoping eye was used as a control.

A sophisticated computer test of colour contrast sensitivity was used. The computer assesses the degree of brightness at which the subject is just able to detect a coloured grating, and for each eye this is expressed as a threshold for the red/green axis and the blue/yellow (tritan) axis. The subjects also completed a questionnaire about their working patterns and their general and ophthalmic history and had a brief examination of the fundus.

The results do not suggest that urologists are suffering any significant macular damage as a result of their work with endoscopes.
Blue Light Emission from Urological Equipment. Can it Damage the Eyes?
Authors: BRIGGS T. P. , PARKER C. , MILLER R. A. , PHILLIPS P. M. , DEAN F. M. , DAVEY C. C.
Published: April 2018

Blue light present in the visible spectrum at the lower wavelengths can cause damage to the retinas of monkeys and rats. In the present study the light sources and instrumentation available to the urologist were evaluated to see whether they posed a hazard. The light emitting directly from the sources, cables and telescopes was tested and these levels were found to be dangerous to the eye when compared with the safety limit recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).

When the light at the eyepiece of the telescopes which had been reflected off a surface was measured, the blue light levels did not appear to be harmful when compared with the ACGIH safety limit.

The use of filters is discussed and the transmission of 2 types of filters shown. While the level of blue light emission from the eyepiece remains within the ACGIH level, there are no data on long‐term exposure. The addition of a blue light filter may be beneficial until such time as videoendoscopy becomes the norm. The light from light sources should be protected by a shutter and more care taken with the emission from cables and telescopes.
Samuel Pepys and his Bladder Stone
Authors: URQUHART-HAY D.
Published: April 2018

Samuel Pepys, as a young man, developed a bladder stone and, by the age of 25 years, realised that only surgery could deliver him from his agony. The chances of success in an age that was ignorant of sepsis were slender, but he opted for surgery. The operation, carried out through the perineum without anaesthetic by a master barber surgeon, was successful and Pepys survived. Although left sterile, he was far from impotent and he went on to achieve fame and fortune as Secretary to the Navy and President of the Royal Society. His greatest fame came after his death with the publication of his diary, which was to become one of the best known and best loved books in the language.
Local Hyperthermia for Prostatic Disease: in vitro Studies on Human Prostatic Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: LLOYD S. N. , CHALMERS D. , LEAKE R. E. , KIRK D.
Published: April 2018

Local hyperthermia for benign and malignant prostatic disease remains largely empirical. In an attempt to understand the biological action of hyperthermia, and its potentiation by antiandrogen seen in clinical practice, the interaction of the two has been studied in prostatic cancer cell lines.

Human prostatic cancer cell lines LNCaP and DU 145 were studied to examine the effects of heat shock treatment (HST), androgen (5α‐dihydrotestosterone: 5αDHT) and antiandrogen (hydroxyflutamide: OH‐Flut) on cell growth and survival. Response (measured as increased DNA content) to 5αD HT demonstrated that LNCaP was androgen sensitive, whereas DU 145 was androgen insensitive; OH‐Flut stimulated LNCaP growth but had no effect on DU 145 growth. Thermotolerance was exhibited by DU 145 cells but not by LNCaP cells. The combination of HST followed by OH‐Flut markedly reduced survival of LNCaP cells compared with HST alone. This effect was not observed in DU 145 cells. The enhanced cytotoxic effect of antiandrogen and hyperthermia could minimise the effect of thermotolerance in malignant cells surviving initial hyperthermia treatment and might suggest real clinical value for the combination or sequence.
Staging of Prostate Cancer. Accuracy of Transrectal Ultrasound Enhanced by Prostate‐specific Antigen
Authors: WOLF, J. S. , SHINOHARA K. , NARAYAN P.
Published: April 2018

Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) has shown some promise in the staging of prostate cancer, while prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) alone is insufficient. By combining prospective TRUS evaluation with retrospective PSA analysis, we demonstrated an increased accuracy of this combined staging method over TRUS alone. In 48 men undergoing radical prostatectomy, TRUS was performed and PSA measured pre‐operatively. On the basis of TRUS, tumours were classified as contained or uncontained. An “expected” PSA value was then calculated for each patient as follows:

urn:x-wiley:14927535:media:bju1992705534:bju1992705534-math-0001

where K = 2.1 if the combined Gleason score of the initial biopsy was ≥7, or 4.2 if the score was ≤6.

If a patient's pre‐operative PSA value was less than or equal to the expected PSA, his tumour was judged to be contained. Staging by both TRUS and PSA was combined, so that if the tumour was judged uncontained by either parameter, the combined prediction was uncontained. Results of the combined staging were: sensitivity 84%, specificity 82%, positive predictive value 94%, negative predictive value 60%, accuracy 83%. This PSA formula, which takes into account the size and grade of the lesion rather than an arbitrary cut‐off value, enhances the local staging of prostate cancer by TRUS.
Mitomycin C and Aminoglutethimide in the Treatment of Metastatic Prostatic Cancer: a Phase II Study
Authors: DIK P. , BLOM J. H. M. , SCHRÖDER F. H.
Published: April 2018

In a phase II study, 24 patients with metastatic prostatic cancer were treated with mitomycin C 15 mg/m2 i.v. every 6 weeks, combined with aminoglutethimide 250 mg twice a day. A low dose of 37.5 mg cortisone acetate was supplied daily to compensate for adrenal cortical suppression. A partial reponse was demonstrated in 4 of 24 evaluable patients with bidimensionally measurable metastases. Stable disease occurred in 8 patients over a period of more than 6 months. Within the maximum cumulative dose limit of 2 mg/kg body weight mitomycin C, toxicity was observed in 21 cases, including 2 deaths due to treatment toxicity. The poor response rate and high toxicity suggest that the addition of aminoglutethimide does not enhance the effect of mitomycin C in these patients.
Continent Urinary Reservoir in Exstrophy/Epispadias Complex
Authors: BASSIOUNY I. E.
Published: April 2018

The outcome of 15 children and young adults who underwent reconstruction of continent urinary reservoirs (CUR) from January 1987 to 1990 is presented. Ten patients were male and 5 female with an age range of 3 to 20 years. There were 13 patients with bladder exstrophy and 2 with incontinent epispadias. In 8 cases the urinary diversion was performed for an inadequate bladder capacity following successful closure (3), failed attempted closure (3), female epispadias (1) and following successful urethroplasty in 1 case of male epispadias. A tiny fibrotic bladder plate unsuitable for attempted closure was the indication for diversion in 3 patients. Faecal and urinary incontinence following ureterosigmoidostomy (2 patients) and trigonosigmoidostomy (2) was the reason to consider re‐diversion in 4 previously diverted patients. In 10 patients an Indiana pouch was performed. The Mitrofanoff procedure was used in 5 cases with caecum (2), sigmoid colon (2) or transverse colon (1) as the urinary reservoir. All patients are continent on clean intermittent catheterisation with stable renal function. Three patients developed large stones within the reservoir and needed open cystolithotomy. This series supports the efficacy of CUR as an alternative procedure to traditional forms of urinary diversion in the management of selected patients with exstrophy/epispadias complex.
Velvet Rope Racism, Racial Paranoia, and Cultural Scripts: Alleged Dress Code Discrimination in Urban Nightlife, 2000–2014
Authors: May Reuben A. Buford
Published: April 2018

Using news stories appearing between June 1, 2000, and June 15, 2014, I explore the nature of African Americans’ allegations of racial discrimination in the use of dress codes at urban nightclubs. In this qualitative analysis I outline the nature of these incidents and the extent to which they represent what I refer to as “velvet rope racism”. I focus on how these incidents are negotiated between patrons and nightclub management, observing that owners who face allegations of racial discrimination turn to cultural scripts to make counterclaims to allegations. These scripts present dress codes as colorblind standards that help owners address legitimate business concerns, while at the same time imply that the accuser is suffering from “racial paranoia” (Jackson). These scripts are powerful tools for deflecting allegations of racial discrimination and delegitimizing the complainants’ experiences, further complicating the use of urban nightclubs for diverse populations.
Very long‐term Voice Handicap Index Voice Outcomes after Montgomery Thyroplasty: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Desuter G. , Zapater E. , Van der Vorst S. , Henrard S. , van Lith‐Bijl J.T. , van Benthem P.P. , Sjögren E.V.
Published: April 2018

Objective

The aim of this multicentric cross‐sectional study was to examine the permanency of Montgomery thyroplasty (MTIS) results from a patient's perspective.

Design

The study consisted of collecting Voice Handicap Index (VHI‐30) questionnaires from patients who had previously been operated with MTIS between 2 and 12 years before. Very long‐term (>2 years) postoperative data were compared with the previously acquired preoperative and early postoperative VHI results. Influence of factors such as age, gender, size/side of the prosthesis and length of the follow‐up were also analysed.

Setting

Multicentric study involving three tertiary European voice centres.

Participants

Forty‐nine unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) patients, treated by MTIS, were included in the study.

Main outcome measures

The Voice Handicap Index‐30 score.

Results & Conclusions

The median VHI was significantly different over time‐points (Friedman's test P < .001), with a significant difference between preoperative and early postoperative time‐points (median VHI: 70 vs 21, respectively; P < .001) and between preoperative and very long‐term postoperative time‐points (median VHI: 70 vs 16, respectively; P < .001). The median VHI did not differ for the early and very long‐term postoperative time‐points (median VHI: 21 vs 16; P = .470).

Age differences, gender differences and size/side differences of the prostheses, centres where surgery took place and length of the follow‐up showed no significant influence.

Medialisation thyroplasty (MT) overall and MTIS, in particular, should be considered as a possible standard of care for UVFP when permanency of voice results is sought.
Novel 7‐maleimido‐2(1H)‐quinolones as potential fluorescent sensors for the detection of sulphydryl groups
Authors: Kolińska Jolanta , Grzelakowska Aleksandra , Sokołowska Jolanta
Published: April 2018

Novel compounds, based on the 2(1H)‐quinolone skeleton, were synthesised and characterised using 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and chemical ionisation mass spectrometry (CI MS). Their spectroscopic properties, such as absorption and emission spectra and fluorescence quantum yield, were also examined. 7‐maleimido‐4‐methyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone, 7‐maleimido‐3,4‐dimethyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone, 7‐maleimido‐4‐propyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone and 7‐maleimido‐4‐phenyl‐2(1H)‐quinolone were evaluated as potential sensors for the detection of sulphydryl amino acids groups. These new compounds demonstrate a high ‘turn‐on’ fluorescence response and selectivity towards l‐cysteine in the presence of other amino acids and metal cations.
Two cases of discrete adenoid pseudogland formation within benign intradermal melanocytic nevi
Authors: Banta Jonathan C. , Bandino Justin P.
Published: April 2018

We report 2 cases of benign intradermal melanocytic nevi with discrete glandular elements and mucin deposition engendering a diagnostic dilemma. The preliminary differential included entrapment of adnexal structures, collision with an adnexal neoplasm such as adenoid cystic carcinoma or metastatic adenocarcinoma. A colloidal iron special stain confirmed the deposition of mucin; however, a pankeratin AE1/AE3 immunohistochemical cocktail was surprisingly negative. Closer cytological examination of the discrete “glands” combined with nearby pseudoangiomatous (almost kaposiform) change hinted at melanocytic origin, which was confirmed with a positive melanoma antigen recognized by T‐cells 1 immunohistochemical stain. Histopathological variations in melanocytic morphology include balloon cell formation, pseudoangiomatous change, lipomatous change, nevus of Nanta (osteonevus) with osseous metaplasia, neurotization, cartilaginous nevus, calcification, increased elastic tissue, psamomma body formation, amyloid deposition, eczematous changes (Meyerson nevus), granular cell change and ancient change/atypia. Mucin deposition, tubule and pseudoacini formation, and now discrete adenoid cystic‐like “glands” may also be seen, all of which are important to recognize to avoid misdiagnosis.
Nivolumab maintenance after salvage autologous stem cell transplantation results in long‐term remission in multiple relapsed primary CNS lymphoma
Authors: Terziev Denis , Hutter Barbara , Klink Barbara , Stenzinger Albrecht , Stögbauer Fabian , Glimm Hanno , Fröhling Stefan , Wickenhauser Claudia , Jordan Karin , Hurtz Hans‐Jürgen , Müller Lutz P. , Rüssel Jörn , Weber Thomas
Published: April 2018

Recurrence of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) after high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) usually has a poor overall prognosis with limited treatment options. Data on repeated ASCT are sparse. Checkpoint inhibitor maintenance therapy has also not been reported in PCNSL. Here, we report the first documented case of a successful third ASCT in second relapse of PCNSL. Whole‐exome sequencing identified a hypermutated tumor genotype. Additionally, immunohistochemistry on pretreatment tumor tissue revealed infiltrates of PD‐1+ cytolytic T cells. These alterations provided a rationale for subsequent nivolumab maintenance treatment. Therapy led to a long‐term, ongoing complete remission. In eligible patients with recurrent MTX‐sensitive PCNSL, multiple long‐term remissions can be induced by repetition of high‐dose MTX‐based chemotherapy followed by autologous retransplantation. Subsequent immune checkpoint inhibitor maintenance therapy might be able to prolong or maintain remission.
Fatigue surface crack propagation and intersecting cracks in connection with welding residual stresses
Authors: Chernyatin A.S. , Matvienko Yu.G. , Razumovsky I.A.
Published: April 2018

The effect of welding residual stress on surface fatigue crack propagation and fracture mechanics parameters of intersecting orthogonal cracks is discussed. The effect of welding residual stresses on fatigue propagation of the internal surface crack is analysed in the case of welded joint of the pipeline. To predict fatigue crack propagation, the modified Forman law taking into account the nonsingular T‐stress as the crack‐tip constraint has been employed. It is shown by means of numerical simulation (the software ANSYS and MATLAB) that welding residual stress and crack‐tip constraint effects lead to the semielliptical form of final configuration of the surface fatigue crack. Fracture mechanics parameters for intersecting surface cracks, namely, circular and semielliptical cracks in welded joint of the pipeline are also analysed by numerical simulation. It was concluded that welding residual stress intensifies the effect of intersecting orthogonal surface cracks on fracture mechanics parameters including the crack‐tip constraint.
Group Education and Multidisciplinary Management for Chronic Headaches Among Adolescents in a Military Treatment Facility: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Ormond Andrew , Faux Brian M. , Zickefoose Betty A. , Aden James , Kapunan Patricia E. , Roberts Timothy A.
Published: April 2018

Objective

To assess the effect of group education on the frequency of chronic headaches among adolescents.

Background

Chronic headaches are a common problem among adolescents with significant psychosocial morbidity. Brief education on lifestyle interventions to decrease headache frequency has established benefits among adult patients but is less proven among adolescents.

Methods

This study is a chart review examining our experience with a group education program for 155 adolescents, aged 12‐17 years old, enrolled in the U.S. military medical system with at least 3 months of chronic headaches who were referred to a headache evaluation clinic. The primary outcome of our study was self‐reported number of days with a headache in the previous 30 days based on patient recall. We used a paired samples t‐test to measure the change in headache frequency between the frequency reported at the headache class and follow‐up more than 6 months after the class.

Results

Most of the adolescents seen in the program were female (114/155 [73.5%]) and suffered from migraine headaches (108/155 [69.8%]). Severe headache‐related disability was reported by 40.6% of subjects (63/155). Subjects reported an average of 19 days with headache during the previous 30 days. Females and patients with higher headache‐related disability reported a higher number of days with headache. Participation in the group education was associated with an 11.5 (SD 11.9, P < .001) day decrease in the frequency of headaches during the previous 30 days at follow‐up at least 6 months after the class, with largest decline seen in patients with the highest level of migraine‐related disability at baseline.

Conclusion

Based on our retrospective chart review study, group education on headache evaluation and lifestyle management has potential as an effective, low‐cost intervention for treatment of chronic headaches among adolescents.
Responding effectively to adult mental health patient feedback in an online environment: A coproduced framework
Authors: Baines Rebecca , Donovan John , Regan de Bere Sam , Archer Julian , Jones Ray
Published: April 2018

Background

Responding to online patient feedback is considered integral to patient safety and quality improvement. However, guidance on how to respond effectively is limited, with limited attention paid to patient perceptions and reactions.

Objectives

To identify factors considered potentially helpful in enhancing response quality; coproduce a best‐practice response framework; and quality‐appraise existing responses.

Design

A four‐stage mixed methodology: (i) systematic search of stories published on Care Opinion about adult mental health services in the South West of England; (ii) collaborative thematic analysis of responses to identify factors potentially helpful in enhancing response quality; (iii) validation of identified factors by a patient‐carer group (n = 12) leading to the coproduction of a best‐practice response framework; and (iv) quality appraisal of existing responses.

Results

A total of 245 stories were identified, with 183 (74.7%) receiving a response. Twenty‐four (9.8%) had been heard but not yet responded to. 1.6% (n = 4/245) may lead to a change. Nineteen factors were considered influential in response quality. These centred around seven subject areas: (i) introductions; (ii) explanations; (iii) speed of response; (iv) thanks and apologies; (v) response content; (vi) signposting; and (vii) response sign‐off that were developed into a conceptual framework (the Plymouth, Listen, Learn and Respond framework). Quality appraisal of existing responses highlighted areas for further improvement demonstrating the framework's utility.

Conclusion

This study advances existing understanding by providing previously unavailable guidance. It has clear practical and theoretical implications for those looking to improve health‐care services, patient safety and quality of care. Further validation of the conceptual framework is encouraged.
Impact of limited English proficiency on presentation and outcomes of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Biswas Sinjini , Seman Michael , Cox Nicholas , Neil Christopher , Brennan Angela , Dinh Diem , Walton Antony , Chan William , Lefkovits Jeffrey , Reid Christopher , Stub Dion
Published: April 2018

Doctor–patient language discordance has been shown to lead to worse clinical outcomes. In this study of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST‐elevation myocardial infarction at an Australian health service, we demonstrated that limited English proficiency (LEP) is an independent predictor of prolonged symptom‐to‐door time, but does not lead to worse 30‐day mortality compared with English‐proficient patients. More effort needs to be placed in providing public health education in varied languages to encourage early presentation to hospital for patients with LEP.
Governors' Party Affiliation and Unions
Authors: Beland Louis‐Philippe , Unel Bulent
Published: April 2018

Employing a regression discontinuity (RD) approach on gubernatorial elections in the United States over the last three decades, this paper investigates the causal effects of governors' party affiliation (Democrat versus Republican) on unionization of workers, and unionized workers' working hours and earnings. Surprisingly, we find no significant impact from the party affiliation of governors on union membership and union workers' labor‐market outcomes.