bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin‐2 receptor antagonists: Protective factors against new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation
Authors: Xue Mengjuan , Zhao Chenhe , Lv Chaoyang , Chen Minling , Xu Ming , Rong Ruiming , Zhang Yao , Liang Jing , Gao Jian , Yu Mingxiang , Zhu Tongyu , Gao Xin
Published: March 2018

Background

The aim of the present study was to examine the association between interleukin‐2 receptor antagonists (IL‐2Ra) and new‐onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) among renal transplant recipients (RTRs).

Methods

Between January 1993 and March 2014, 915 patients underwent renal transplantation at Zhongshan Hospital. In all, 557 RTRs were included in the present retrospective cohort study. The incidence of NODAT in this cohort was determined and multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the risk factors for NODAT and to show the association between IL‐2Ra use and NODAT development among RTRs. The cumulative incidence of NODAT was compared between groups treated with or without IL‐2Ra.

Results

The mean ±SD postoperative follow‐up was 5.08 ±3.17 years. The incidence of NODAT at the end of follow‐up was 20.3%. After adjusting for potential confounders in the multivariate logistic regression (i.e. age, sex, body mass index, history of smoking, family history of diabetes, duration of dialysis, type of dialysis, donor type, recovery of graft function, acute rejection, hepatitis B or C or cytomegalovirus infection, fasting plasma glucose levels before and 1 week after transplantation, preoperative total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, daily dose of glucocorticoid, immunosuppressive regimen type, and immunosuppressant concentration after transplantation), IL‐2Ra use was found to be related to a reduced incidence of NODAT.

Conclusions

Use of IL‐2Ra is associated with protection against the development of NODAT in RTRs.
Molecular biological analysis in a patient with multiple lung adenocarcinomas
Authors: Wakayama Tomoshige , Hirata Hirokuni , Suka Shunsuke , Sato Kozo , Tatewaki Masamitsu , Souma Ryosuke , Satoh Hideyuki , Tamura Motohiko , Matsumura Yuji , Imada Hiroki , Sugiyama Kumiya , Arima Masafumi , Kurasawa Kazuhiro , Fukuda Takeshi , Fukushima Yasutsugu
Published: March 2018

The utility of molecular biological analysis in lung adenocarcinoma has been demonstrated. Herein we report a rare case presenting as multiple lung adenocarcinomas with four different EGFR gene mutations detected in three lung tumors. After opacification was detected by routine chest X‐ray, the patient, a 64‐year‐old woman, underwent chest computed tomography which revealed a right lung segment S4 ground‐glass nodule (GGN). Follow‐up computed tomography revealed a 42 mm GGN nodule with a 26 mm nodule (S6) and a 20 mm GGN (S10). Histopathology of resected specimens from the right middle and lower lobes revealed all three nodules were adenocarcinomas. Four EGFR mutations were detected; no three tumors had the same mutations. Molecular biological analysis is a promising tool for the diagnosis of primary tumors in patients with multiple lung carcinomas of the same histotype, enabling appropriate treatment.
A Qualitative Analysis of Patients’ Perceptions of Shared Decision Making in the Emergency Department: “Let Me Know I Have a Choice”
Authors: Schoenfeld Elizabeth M. , Goff Sarah L. , Downs Gwendolyn , Wenger Robert J. , Lindenauer Peter K. , Mazor Kathleen M.
Published: March 2018

Background and Objectives

Despite increasing attention to the use of shared decision making (SDM) in the emergency department (ED), little is known about ED patients’ perspectives regarding this practice. We sought to explore the use of SDM from the perspectives of ED patients, focusing on what affects patients’ desired level of involvement and what barriers and facilitators patients find most relevant to their experience.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with a purposive sample of ED patients or their proxies at two sites. An interview guide was developed from existing literature and expert consensus and based on a framework underscoring the importance of both knowledge and power. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed in an iterative process by a three‐person coding team. Emergent themes were identified, discussed, and organized.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients and proxies participated. The mean age of participants was 56 years (range, 20 to 89 years), and 13 were female. Participants were diverse in regard to race/ethnicity, education, number of previous ED visits, and presence of chronic conditions. All participants wanted some degree of involvement in decision making. Participants who made statements suggesting high self‐efficacy and those who expressed mistrust of the health care system or previous negative experiences wanted a greater degree of involvement. Facilitators to involvement included familiarity with the decision at hand, physicians’ good communication skills, and clearly delineated options. Some participants felt that their own relative lack of knowledge, compared to that of the physicians, made their involvement inappropriate or unwanted. Many participants had no expectation for SDM and although they did want involvement when asked explicitly, they were otherwise likely to defer to physicians without discussion. Many did not recognize opportunities for SDM in their clinical care.

Conclusions

This exploration of ED patients’ perceptions of SDM suggests that most patients want some degree of involvement in medical decision making but more proactive engagement of patients by clinicians is often needed. Further research should examine these issues in a larger and more representative population.
Board monitoring and covenant restrictiveness in private debt contracts during the global financial crisis
Authors: Abu Bakar Intan Suryani , Khan Arifur , Mather Paul , Tanewski George
Published: March 2018

We examine the association between board independence and restrictiveness of covenants in U.S. private debt contracts around the global financial crisis (GFC). We show that board independence is associated with less restrictive covenants suggesting lenders willingness to delegate some monitoring of firms with independent boards. More nuanced analysis between the pre‐GFC, GFC and post‐GFC periods shows mixed results and we suggest that, during the GFC and its aftermath, lenders place more emphasis on ex ante screening relative to ex post monitoring. We contribute to the literature by providing evidence on covenant use and lenders choices in periods of credit rationing.
Does the quality of acquisitions inform bond rating revisions?
Authors: Chang Qi , Bhabra Harjeet Singh , Bhabra Gurmeet Singh
Published: March 2018

A bond rating upgrade (downgrade) is more likely when preceded by acquisitions that meet with positive (negative) announcement‐period abnormal returns suggesting that decisions of rating agencies are partly influenced by the quality of investments undertaken by companies. Parsing the sample along takeover motives reveals that rating upgrades are more likely in value‐creating acquisitions motivated by synergy while acquisitions motivated by agency considerations are more likely to elicit a rating downgrade. Following a rating downgrade however, firms seem to significantly alter their investment policies as such firms tend to make fewer but higher quality acquisitions. In addition, value creation through synergy seems to be the dominant motive in acquisitions for downgraded firms post rating downgrade.
Recurrence and chronicity of major depressive disorder and their risk indicators in a population cohort
Authors: ten Have M. , de Graaf R. , van Dorsselaer S. , Tuithof M. , Kleinjan M. , Penninx B. W. J. H.
Published: March 2018

Objective

The naturalistic course of major depressive disorder (MDD) and risk indicators for recurrence and chronicity are best studied using a population sample without clear selection bias. However, such studies are scarce. This limits clinical decision‐making concerning monitoring and maintenance treatment.

Method

Data were used from the Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study‐2, a psychiatric epidemiological cohort study among a representative adult population. Two groups at baseline were selected to study recurrence and chronicity of MDD at follow‐up. Diagnoses were assessed with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0.

Results

Among remitted MDD cases (n = 746), the cumulative recurrence rate was 4.3% at 5 years, 13.4% at 10 years and 27.1% at 20 years. Time to recurrence was predicted by vulnerability characteristics (childhood abuse, negative life events, parental psychopathology), physical health, functioning, clinical characteristics of depression (previous episodes, severity, medication use), psychiatric comorbidity and mental health use. Among current MDD cases (n = 242), 12% developed a chronic depressive episode over 6 years. Chronic course was predicted by similar risk indicators as recurrence, except for vulnerability characteristics and physical health.

Conclusion

These risk indicators may help to identify patients requiring monitoring and who could benefit from preventive interventions or maintenance treatment.
Pain after vaginal prolapse repair surgery with mesh is a post‐surgical neuropathy which needs to be treated – and can possibly be prevented in some cases
Authors: Vancaillie Thierry , Tan Yasmin , Chow Jason , Kite Lauren , Howard Liz
Published: March 2018

Post‐surgical neuropathy leading to chronic pain is a recognised complication. It also can occur after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse repair involving mesh. Post‐surgical neuropathy needs to be identified and properly treated to minimise the occurrence of chronic pain. A treatment algorithm is put forward for discussion .
Disgust, Anxiety, and Political Learning in the Face of Threat
Authors: Clifford Scott , Jerit Jennifer
Published: March 2018

Emotions feature prominently in political rhetoric and media frames, and they have potent effects on how people process information. Yet, existing research has largely overlooked the influence of disgust, which is a basic emotion that leads people to avoid contamination threats. We illustrate how disgust may impede learning, as compared to the more commonly studied emotion of anxiety. Disgust and anxiety are natural reactions to many kinds of political threats, but the two emotions influence political engagement in different ways. This study investigated the distinctive effects of disgust in a series of experiments that manipulated information about the outbreak of an infectious disease. People who felt disgusted by a health threat were less likely to learn crucial facts about the threat and less likely to seek additional information. Thus, disgust has the counterintuitive effect of decreasing public engagement in precisely those situations where it is most critical.
Tell Me Who Is Your Leader, and I Will Tell You Who You Are: Foreign Leaders’ Perceived Personality and Public Attitudes toward Their Countries and Citizenry
Authors: Balmas Meital
Published: March 2018

The increasing visibility of prominent political leaders in news media is well documented in political science literature. The main concern that has been raised in this connection is that the complexity of political processes is being reduced to achievements and standpoints of individual politicians, and the importance of rational opinion building is discounted. The results of the current study provide the first empirical evidence to account for the misgivings about emotional effects of personalized political information on media audiences. Using data from an online experiment, this study shows that news coverage regarding behaviors and personal characteristics of a foreign leader influences (a) evaluations of personal characteristics typical of his or her nation's citizens and (b) emotional perceptions of that leader's country (sentiment and respect). This effect is shown to reflect a psychological phenomenon whereby people project their emotions and perceptions regarding a leader's personal characteristics onto his or her country and people.
Antibiotics in the first week of life were associated with atopic asthma at 12 years of age
Authors: Strömberg Celind Frida , Wennergren Göran , Vasileiadou Styliana , Alm Bernt , Goksör Emma
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study explored the prevalence of atopic and nonatopic asthma in 12‐year‐old children and whether they were associated with different risk factors. In particular, we wanted to analyse whether receiving antibiotics during the first week of life was associated with asthma at that age.

Methods

Data were obtained from a longitudinal cohort study of 5654 Swedish children born in 2003. The parents answered questionnaires from the age of six months until 12 years. The response rate at 12 years was 3637/4777 (76%).

Results

At 12 years, 6.4% reported current doctor‐diagnosed asthma. Treatment with antibiotics during the first week of life was associated with an increased risk of atopic asthma, with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.2 and 95% confidence interval of 1.2–4.2. Being born small for gestational age was associated with an increased risk of nonatopic asthma, with an adjusted odds ratio of 3.8 and 95% confidence interval of 1.1–13.7. Asthma that only occurred with colds was reported by 28%.

Conclusion

Antibiotic treatment during the first week of life was associated with an increased risk of atopic asthma at 12 years, suggesting an immune‐mediated effect. Being born small for gestational age increased the risk of nonatopic asthma.
Retrospective study of paracetamol poisoning in children aged zero to six years found no cases of liver injury
Authors: Dan‐Nielsen S , Bisgaard AS , Jans SR , Arianto L , Heedeland RL , Jørgensen MH
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study focused on children aged zero to six years with suspected single‐dose paracetamol poisoning, which has not been investigated in Denmark. We evaluated the incidence of liver injuries and the use of activated charcoal and N‐acetylcysteine treatment.

Methods

Our retrospective study was performed in three paediatric hospital centres from 2001 to 2012. Data on symptoms, time of ingestion, blood biochemistry, treatment and adverse reactions were collected. The results were evaluated against the Rumack‐Matthew nomogram.

Results

We identified 221 children (58% male), with a mean age of 2.67 ± 1.05 years. Activated charcoal treatment was given in 87% of cases, but only 15% of the children received treatment within one hour of the suspected paracetamol poisoning. Although 80% of the children received N‐acetylcysteine treatment, only one case (0.5%) had a toxic plasma paracetamol level according to the treatment nomogram. Abdominal pain or vomiting was associated with higher paracetamol levels in plasma. None of the children developed liver injuries.

Conclusion

We found a low incidence of significant poisoning and liberal use of N‐acetylcysteine and activated charcoal treatment in Danish children aged zero to six years with suspected paracetamol poisoning. Vomiting or abdominal pain was associated with elevated plasma paracetamol levels. No liver injuries were reported.
A pneumococcal conjugate vaccination programme reduced clinically suspected invasive disease in unvaccinated children
Authors: Palmu AA , Rinta‐Kokko H , Nuorti JP , Nohynek H , Jokinen J
Published: March 2018

Aim

The 10‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was introduced to the Finnish national vaccination programme for children born since June 2010. We evaluated the changes in the rates of clinically suspected invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) in unvaccinated children to estimate the indirect herd protection impact of the programme.

Methods

The target cohort for this ecological before and after comparison were unvaccinated children born from January 2008 to May 2010 and ineligible for the vaccination programme, who were followed up from 2011 to 2014. The reference cohort was age and season‐matched children born in January 2003 to 2005 and followed up from 2006 to 2009. National data on hospital discharge codes compatible with IPD or unspecified sepsis were collected.

Results

We compared the follow‐up periods of 2007–2009 in the reference cohort and 2012–2014 in the target cohort. The incidence of non‐laboratory‐confirmed IPD in unvaccinated children fell by 68%, from 47 to 15/100 000 person‐years. When unspecified sepsis was added, the decrease was 39%, from 171 to 104/100 000 person‐years. Laboratory confirmed IPD fell by 44%, from 15 to 8/100 000 person‐years.

Conclusion

The pneumococcal vaccination programme provided herd protection against clinically suspected IPD. The absolute reduction was almost 10‐times higher than for just laboratory‐confirmed disease.
Screening for therapeutic trials and treatment indication in clinical practice: MACK‐3, a new blood test for the diagnosis of fibrotic NASH
Authors: Boursier J. , Anty R. , Vonghia L. , Moal V. , Vanwolleghem T. , Canivet C. M. , Michalak S. , Bonnafous S. , Michielsen P. , Oberti F. , Iannelli A. , Van Gaal L. , Patouraux S. , Blanchet O. , Verrijken A. , Gual P. , Rousselet M.‐C. , Driessen A. , Hunault G. , Bertrais S. , Tran A. , Calès P. , Francque S.
Published: March 2018

Background

The composite histological endpoint comprising nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and NAFLD activity score ≥4 and advanced fibrosis (F ≥ 2) (“fibrotic NASH”) is becoming an important diagnostic target in NAFLD: it is currently used to select patients for inclusion in phase III therapeutic trials and will ultimately be used to indicate treatment in clinical practice once the new drugs are approved.

Aim

To develop a new blood test specifically dedicated for this new diagnostic target of interest.

Methods

Eight Hundred and forty‐six biopsy‐proven NAFLD patients from three centres (Angers, Nice, Antwerp) were randomised into derivation and validation sets.

Results

The blood fibrosis tests BARD, NFS and FIB4 had poor accuracy for fibrotic NASH with respective AUROC: 0.566 ± 0.023, 0.654 ± 0.023, 0.732 ± 0.021. In the derivation set, fibrotic NASH was independently predicted by AST, HOMA and CK18; all three were combined in the new blood test MACK‐3 (hoMa, Ast, CK18) for which 90% sensitivity and 95% specificity cut‐offs were calculated. In the validation set, MACK‐3 had a significantly higher AUROC (0.847 ± 0.030, P ≤ 0.002) than blood fibrosis tests. Using liver biopsy in the grey zone between the two cut‐offs (36.0% of the patients), MACK‐3 provided excellent accuracy for the diagnosis of fibrotic NASH with 93.3% well‐classified patients, sensitivity: 90.0%, specificity: 94.2%, positive predictive value: 81.8% and negative predictive value: 97.0%.

Conclusion

The new blood test MACK‐3 accurately diagnoses fibrotic NASH. This new test will facilitate patient screening and inclusion in NAFLD therapeutic trials and will enable the identification of patients who will benefit from the treatments once approved.
Natural history and clinical detection of undiagnosed coeliac disease in a North American community
Authors: Hujoel I. A. , Van Dyke C. T. , Brantner T. , Larson J. , King K. S. , Sharma A. , Murray J. A. , Rubio‐Tapia A.
Published: March 2018

Background

Coeliac disease is a substantially underdiagnosed disorder, with clinical testing currently guided by case finding.

Aim

To determine the presence of indications for diagnostic testing and frequency of clinical testing in undiagnosed coeliac disease.

Methods

This was a case‐control study of adults without prior diagnosis of coeliac disease. Undiagnosed cases were identified through sequential serology, and unaffected age‐ and gender‐matched controls were selected. Medical records were systematically reviewed for indications for and evidence of clinical testing.

Results

Of 47 557 adults, 408 cases of undiagnosed coeliac disease were identified. 408 serology negative matched controls were selected. Eight‐matched pairs were excluded, leading to 800 included individuals (61% female; median age 44.2 years). The odds of any indication for clinical testing were similar among undiagnosed coeliac disease and controls (odds ratio (OR) 1.18; 95% CI: 0.85‐1.63, P = 0.32). Most individual indications were not associated with serologic status. Exceptions to this include hypothyroidism, which was more likely in cases of undiagnosed coeliac disease, and dyspepsia and chronic diarrhoea, which were less likely. Cases of undiagnosed coeliac disease were more likely to develop osteoporosis (P = 0.005), dermatitis herpetiformis (P = 0.006), chronic fatigue (P = 0.033), thyroiditis (P = 0.003), autoimmune diseases (P = 0.008), and have a family member diagnosed with coeliac disease (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

This study strongly suggests that current case finding is not effective in detecting undiagnosed coeliac disease. Individuals with undiagnosed coeliac disease were more likely than controls to develop indications for testing overtime. A more effective method for detection of coeliac disease is needed.
Laboratory Research into the Use of Menthol as a Temporary Consolidant for Conservation on Archaeological Excavations
Authors: Han X. , Huang X. , Zhang B. J.
Published: March 2018

Due to its ability to evaporate completely at room temperature, menthol has recently been proposed for use as a new kind of temporary consolidant at the excavation site of Qin Shihuang's Terracotta Army. Compared to cyclododecane (CDD), the most widely used temporary consolidant, menthol has the advantages of a longer working time, a well‐established safety profile and easy local availability. In this paper, in order to better understand the temporary consolidation behaviour of menthol and to guide its optimal use in the field, laboratory experiments are carried out on ISO standard sand substrate in conditions mimicking the situation of an archaeological excavation. Basic and important knowledge about menthol, which is related to its effectiveness in temporary consolidation, such as penetration into the substrates, the solidification process and the degradation of the efficiency of consolidation over the sublimation time, are systematically studied. The results show that the penetration of menthol is notably affected by the substrate's temperature, particle size, particle‐size distribution and water content. The solidification of melted menthol is an obvious volume shrinkage process, and the shrinkage extent is greatly affected by the application protocol. The consolidated samples experience a dramatic promotion in compressive strength, and as menthol volatilizes, the consolidated samples will eventually become loose and finally collapse.
Informing urban governance? Boundary‐spanning organisations and the ecosystem of urban data
Authors: Acuto Michele , Steenmans Katrien , Iwaszuk Ewa , Ortega‐Garza Liliana
Published: March 2018

In urban policy there is an increasing emphasis on the management and sharing of information in and about cities. This paper focuses on external sharing practices which are facilitated by boundary‐spanning organisations. Boundary‐spanning organisations are hybrid structures that provide a platform to link internal networks of the city government with external actors, and in particular focus on engaging various types of stakeholders. The paper offers a preliminary assessment of a sample of boundary‐spanning organisations based across six case studies (Barcelona, Chicago, London, Medellin, Mexico City and Seoul) and across three types of BSOs: living labs, innovation districts and sector‐oriented BSOs. Unpacking the shape and development of BSOs, and “placing” them in urban governance, we begin to sketch a preliminary agenda geared to offer a better appreciation of the “information ecosystem” underneath policy‐making in cities.
Is postponed laparoscopic cholecystectomy justified for acute cholecystitis appearing early after onset?
Authors: Kohga Atsushi , Suzuki Kenji , Okumura Takuya , Yamashita Kimihiro , Isogaki Jun , Kawabe Akihiro , Kimura Taizo
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy (ELC) is considered the standard treatment for acute cholecystitis for patients who can tolerate surgery. The ideal time for performing ELC is reported to be 72 h from onset. However, many patients undergo surgery on or after the fourth day from onset, even if they presented early after onset. A few reports have investigated the feasibility and disadvantages of this so‐called “postponed laparoscopic cholecystectomy” (PLC).

Methods

This study consisted of 215 patients who had undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis within 6 days of onset between July 2006 and December 2017. Patients were divided into an ELC group (patients who underwent LC within 3 days of symptom onset, n = 172) and a PLC group (patients who underwent LC 4–6 days from symptom onset and on or after 3 days from admission, n = 43). Comparisons were made between these groups.

Results

Perioperative outcomes between the PLC and ELC groups were not significantly different, except for the requirement of subtotal cholecystectomy (SC) (16.2% vs 5.2%, P = 0.013). In the PLC group, persistent fever after admission was significantly associated with the need for SC (P = 0.036).

Conclusions

PLC for acute cholecystitis performed within 6 days of onset gave acceptable perioperative outcomes, except for an increased requirement for SC. Surgeons should keep in mind that PLC may increase the need for SC. A persistent fever after admission may be a risk factor for SC in the PLC group.
This corrosion: A systematic review of the association between alternative subcultures and the risk of self‐harm and suicide
Authors: Hughes Mairead Ann , Knowles Susan Frances , Dhingra Katie , Nicholson Hannah Louise , Taylor Peter James
Published: March 2018

Background

Rates of self‐harm and suicide are increasing in young people. The literature suggests that individuals who identify with alternative subcultures (e.g., Goth) may be at a greater risk.

Objective

To explore the prevalence of self‐harm and suicide in alternative subcultures and the factors that might contribute to this increased risk.

Method

Using a systematic strategy, the databases PsycINFO, Scopus,MEDLINEand Web of Science, and the E‐Thesis online service (ETHOS) were searched for English language only papers, with no restrictions in terms of date of publication. Papers were selected that included data on the relationship between either alternative subculture identity (e.g., Goth) or preference for alternative music (e.g., Heavy Metal) and self‐harm or suicide. Ten quantitative papers were included: seven cross‐sectional, two longitudinal and one cross‐sectional state‐level comparison study. Two qualitative papers were also included. Studies were assessed by two reviewers for risk of bias.

Results

The findings indicated that individuals who associated with alternative subcultures were at a greater risk of self‐harm and suicide. Whilst qualitative papers identified potential mechanisms (e.g., exposure to self‐harm and the way self‐harm is presented or normalized), there remains limited support for these mechanisms.

Conclusions

More research is required to understand the association between self‐harm, suicide and alternative subculture affiliation, and the factors underlying it. Longitudinal studies and studies focusing on mechanism are particularly important.

Practitioner points

The review supports the suggestion that those who identify as belonging to an alternative subculture may be at a higher risk of self‐harm and suicidal behaviour. It also presents preliminary evidence that alternative affiliation predicts self‐harm over time, and that this effect holds whilst adjusting for a number of likely confounders.

The findings highlight the importance of increasing the awareness of the victimization and potential risk that these groups hold and suggests areas for intervention in health, educational, and social services.

The review does not, however, indicate specifically what it is about alternative subculture affiliation (or alternative music preference) that could contribute to the risk of self‐harm. Consequently, studies with a greater focus on mechanisms are needed.

Methodological limitations (e.g., cross‐sectional studies, small sample of ‘alternative’ participants, westernized samples) restricted the reliability and validity of the results which impacted on the extent to which the findings could be generalized more widely.
System justification enhances well‐being: A longitudinal analysis of the palliative function of system justification in 18 countries
Authors: Vargas‐Salfate Salvador , Paez Dario , Khan Sammyh S. , Liu James H. , Gil de Zúñiga Homero
Published: March 2018

According to the palliative function of ideology hypothesis proposed by System Justification Theory, endorsing system‐justifying beliefs is positively related to general psychological well‐being, because this fulfils existential, epistemic, and relational needs. We discuss and address three main issues: (1) the role of societal inequality, (2) comparisons by social status, and (3) cross‐sectional versus longitudinal research. We used a longitudinal survey of representative online samples (N = 5,901) from 18 countries. The results supported the main argument proposed by the theory, in that system justification was positively and significantly related to life satisfaction and negatively related to anxiety and depression. The pattern of results suggested that the palliative function of system justification is more homogeneously distributed across individual and collective measures of social status than proposed by the theory, because the function was unaffected either by society‐level inequality or by individual‐level social status. These results allow us to infer that one of the reasons for the high stability of social arrangements is located in the psychological domain of palliative effects.
Taphonomy of small mammal bone accumulations generated by the Chaco owl (Strix chacoensis, Strigiformes) from the Monte Desert (Mendoza, Argentina): a contribution to South American archaeological and palaeontological studies
Authors: López José Manuel , Fernández Fernando J. , Castillo Leonardo , Pereyra‐Lobos Roberto
Published: March 2018

The present study analyses the taphonomic features of recent small mammal bone and teeth accumulations recovered from pellets generated by Strix chacoensis in a Natural Protected Area in the central Monte Desert of Mendoza, Argentina. In order to identify the taphonomic signature of this predator in the formation of zooarchaeological and palaeontological accumulations, taxonomic profiles, relative abundances, bone breakage patterns and digestive corrosion were evaluated. Taphonomic results locate S. chacoensis in modification category 2 (intermediate). Although the general taphonomic patterns detected in the present study were similar to a typical owl pattern, some differences from that pattern were detected. This sample showed lesser relative abundances of skeletal elements, greater loss of teeth and a larger number of incisors modified by digestion than those generated by other strigiforms. The comparison with reported archaeological accumulations suggested that the small mammal remains recovered in some sites from the Monte Desert may correspond to the predatory activity of S. chacoensis. The identification of the action of S. chacoensis in archaeological and palaeontological small mammal bone and teeth accumulations is a promising tool to evaluate the conservation status of native forests in the past.
Late therapeutic intervention with a respiratory syncytial virus L‐protein polymerase inhibitor, PC786, on respiratory syncytial virus infection in human airway epithelium
Authors: Brookes Daniel W , Coates Matthew , Allen Heather , Daly Leah , Constant Samuel , Huang Song , Hows Mark , Davis Amanda , Cass Lindsey , Ayrton John , Knowles Ian , Strong Pete , Rapeport Garth , Ito Kazuhiro
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose

Effective anti‐respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) agents are still not available for clinical use. Current major targets are virus surface proteins, such as a fusion protein involved in viral entry, but agents effective after RSV infection is established are required. Here we have investigated the effects of late therapeutic intervention with a novel inhaled RSV polymerase inhibitor, PC786, on RSV infection in human airway epithelium.

Experimental Approach

Air liquid interface‐cultured bronchial or small airway epithelium was infected with RSVA2. PC786 was applied apically or basolaterally once daily following peak virus load on Day 3 post inoculation. Apical wash was collected daily for determination of viral burden by PCR and plaque assay (primary endpoints) and biomarker analyses. The effects were compared with those of ALS‐8112, an anti‐RSV nucleoside analogue, and GS‐5806, a fusion‐protein inhibitor, which were treated basolaterally.

Key Results

Late intervention with GS‐5806 did not show significant anti‐viral effects, but PC786 produced potent, concentration‐dependent inhibition of viral replication with viral load falling below detectable limits 3 days after treatment commenced in airway epithelium. These effects were superior to those of ALS‐8112. PC786 showed inhibitory activities against RSV‐induced increases of CCL5, IL‐6, double‐strand DNA and mucin. The effects of PC786 were also confirmed in small airway epithelium.

Conclusion and Implications

Late therapeutic intervention with the RSV polymerase inhibitor, PC786, reduced the viral burden quickly in human airway epithelium. Thus, PC786 demonstrates the potential to be an effective therapeutic agent to treat active RSV infection.
Longitudinal Associations Among Child Maltreatment, Resting Frontal Electroencephalogram Asymmetry, and Adolescent Shyness
Authors: Lahat Ayelet , Tang Alva , Tanaka Masako , Van Lieshout Ryan J. , MacMillan Harriet L. , Schmidt Louis A.
Published: March 2018

Child maltreatment is linked to distinct neurophysiological patterns and social‐emotional vulnerability. Relations among maltreatment, relative resting frontal alpha asymmetry, shyness, and psychopathology were examined prospectively. Adolescent girls (age 14–16) who experienced child maltreatment (N = 55) were compared to nonmaltreated controls (N = 25), and returned for 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐ups. Among participants exhibiting relative right frontal asymmetry, maltreated adolescents reported higher shyness than controls at Time 1. Low‐stable and high‐stable shyness trajectories were observed for maltreated participants. Compared to low shy, participants in high‐shy trajectory reported at Time 3: higher neuroticism and generalized anxiety; and lower extraversion if they also exhibited relative right frontal asymmetry. Thus, right frontal brain activity and shyness are involved in social‐emotional vulnerability of adolescents who experienced child maltreatment.
Is kinship failing? Views on informal support by families in contact with social services in Ghana
Authors: Manful Esmeranda , Cudjoe Ebenezer
Published: March 2018

Traditionally, Ghanaian families facing difficulties address their problems by engaging kin, with the State being the last point of call. However, in recent times, more families facing difficulties are contacting social services to seek redress. So what contribution are kin and other informal social support networks providing to the care and safety of children of such families? This paper presents findings from 15 families receiving services from the Department of Social Welfare in Sekondi, Ghana. Through semistructured in‐depth interviews, the families shared their views on the roles played by their kin and informal social networks in contributing to the care of their children. The study findings suggest that kin still plays a vital role in the support of parenting through imbibing of norms and values; whereas the provision of casual support is provided by nonkin in one's social support network on the basis of reciprocity. Therefore, it was concluded that in developing social welfare policies to ensure better outcomes for children in Ghana attention also has to be placed on the supportive role of the community for families in danger of disruption as there is likely to be limited familial safety net for support in child care.
PencilArt: A Chromatic Penciling Style Generation Framework
Authors: Gao Chengying , Tang Mengyue , Liang Xiangguo , Su Zhuo , Zou Changqing
Published: March 2018

Non‐photorealistic rendering has been an active area of research for decades whereas few of them concentrate on rendering chromatic penciling style. In this paper, we present a framework named as PencilArt for the chromatic penciling style generation from wild photographs. The structural outline and textured map for composing the chromatic pencil drawing are generated, respectively. First, we take advantage of deep neural network to produce the structural outline with proper intensity variation and conciseness. Next, for the textured map, we follow the painting process of artists to adjust the tone of input images to match the luminance histogram and pencil textures of real drawings. Eventually, we evaluate PencilArt via a series of comparisons to previous work, showing that our results better capture the main features of real chromatic pencil drawings and have an improved visual appearance.
A Kv1.3 channel‐specific blocker alleviates neurological impairment through inhibiting T‐cell activation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Yuan Xiao‐Lu , Zhao Yi‐Peng , Huang Jie , Liu Jun‐Chen , Mao Wen‐Qian , Yin Jun , Peng Bi‐Wen , Liu Wan‐Hong , Han Song , He Xiao‐Hua
Published: March 2018

Aim

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological autoimmune disorder characterized by mistaken attacks of inflammatory cells against the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in demyelination and axonal damage. Kv1.3 channel blockers can inhibit T‐cell activation and have been designed for MS therapy. However, little is known about the effects of Kv1.3 blockers on protecting myelin sheaths/axons in MS. This study aimed at investigating the neuroprotection efficacy of a selective Kv1.3 channel blocker ImKTx88 (ImK) in MS animal model.

Methods

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) rat model was established. The neuroprotective effect of ImK was assessed by immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In addition, the antiinflammatory effect of ImK by suppressing T‐cell activation was assessed by flow cytometry and ELISA in vitro.

Results

Our results demonstrated that ImK administration ameliorated EAE clinical severity. Moreover, ImK increased oligodendrocytes survival, preserved axons, and myelin integrity and reduced the infiltration of activated T cells into the CNS. This protective effect of the peptide may be related to its suppression of autoantigen‐specific T‐cell activation via calcium influx inhibition.

Conclusion

ImK prevents neurological damage by suppressing T‐cell activation, suggesting the applicability of this peptide in MS therapy.
Castleman's disease diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology: A multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis
Authors: Harries L. J. , Shelton D. , Rana D. N. , Narine N. , Karunaratne D.
Published: March 2018

Castleman's disease is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder which may be subjected to fine needle aspiration in the initial diagnostic work‐up. We describe a challenging cytology case of Castleman's disease diagnosed through cytomorphology, immunocytochemistry and liaison with radiology colleagues.
Ethical issues associated with HIV phylogenetics in HIV transmission dynamics research: A review of the literature using the Emanuel Framework
Authors: Mutenherwa Farirai , Wassenaar Douglas R. , de Oliveira Tulio
Published: March 2018

The reduced costs of DNA sequencing and the use of such data for HIV‐1 clinical management and phylogenetic analysis have led to a massive increase of HIV‐1 sequences in the last few years. Phylogenetic analysis has shed light on the origin, spread and characteristics of HIV‐1 epidemics and outbreaks. Phylogenetic analysis is now also being used to advance our knowledge of the drivers of HIV‐1 transmission in order to design effective interventions. However, HIV phylogenetic analysis presents unique ethical challenges, which have not been fully explored. This review presents an analysis of what appear to be key ethical issues in HIV phylogenetics in the hope of stimulating further conceptual and empirical work in this rapidly emerging area. We structure the review using the Emanuel Framework, a systematic, holistic framework, which has been adapted for use in developing countries, which bear the brunt of the HIV‐1 pandemic.
Adult care providers’ perspectives on the transition to adult care for emerging adults with Type 1 diabetes: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Michaud S. , Dasgupta K. , Bell L. , Yale J.‐F. , Anjachak N. , Wafa S. , Nakhla M.
Published: March 2018

Aims

To assess adult diabetes care providers’ current transition practices, knowledge about transition care, and perceived barriers to implementation of best practices in transition care for emerging adults with Type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

We administered a 38‐item web‐based survey to adult diabetes care providers identified through the Québec Endocrinologist Medical Association and Diabetes Québec.

Results

Fifty‐three physicians responded (35%). Fewer than half of all respondents (46%) were familiar with the American Diabetes Association's transition care position statement. Approximately one‐third of respondents reported a gap of >6 months between paediatric and adult diabetes care. Most (83%) believed communication with the paediatric team was adequate; however, only 56% reported receiving a medical summary and 2% a psychosocial summary from the paediatric provider. Respondents believed that the paediatric team should improve emerging adults’ preparation for transition care by developing their self‐management skills and improve teaching about the differences between paediatric and adult‐oriented care. Only 31% had a system for identifying emerging adults lost to follow‐up in adult care. Perceived barriers included difficulty accessing psychosocial services, emerging adults’ lack of motivation, and inadequate transition preparation. Most (87%) were interested in having additional resources, including a self‐care management tool and a registry to track those lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the need to better engage adult care providers into transition care practices. Despite adult physicians’ interest in transition care, implementation of transition care recommendations and resources in clinical care remains limited. Enhanced efforts are needed to improve access to mental health services within the adult healthcare setting.
Burden of cardio‐renal‐metabolic conditions in adults with type 2 diabetes within the Diabetes Collaborative Registry
Authors: Arnold Suzanne V. , Kosiborod Mikhail , Wang Jingyan , Fenici Peter , Gannedahl Goran , LoCasale Robert J.
Published: March 2018

We examined the prevalence of cardio‐renal‐metabolic (CaReMe) conditions and their combinations among 530 747 adults with type 2 diabetes in a USA‐based outpatient registry of 271 primary care, cardiology and endocrinology offices. We evaluated the following CaReMe conditions: hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, coronary artery disease (CAD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), cerebrovascular disease, peripheral artery disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and gout or hyperuricaemia; prevalence estimates were adjusted based on the distribution of diabetes by age in the US population in 2015. We found that it was uncommon for patients to have isolated type 2 diabetes without other CaReMe conditions, with only 6.4% having no other CaReMe conditions and 51% having ≥3 other CaReMe conditions. The most prevalent individual conditions were hypertension (83%), hyperlipidemia (81%), CAD (32%) and CKD (20%), and the most common combinations included various groupings of hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and CKD. Older age, male sex and tobacco use were each associated with increased numbers of CaReMe conditions. These findings highlight the clinical need for novel treatment strategies for diabetes that address both glycaemia and coexisting disease states.
Infarction of the septomarginal band and tricuspid papillary muscle rupture related to alcohol septal ablation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sari Munevver , Izgi Cemil , Kahveci Gokhan , Kilicgedik Alev , Bayram Zubeyde , Hatipoglu Suzan , Pala Selcuk , Ozdemir Nihal
Published: March 2018

We presented a 77‐year‐old man with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy applied with flail tricuspid leaflet and severe tricuspid regurgitation leading to right heart failure 2 months after the failed septal ablation. The ruptured anterior tricuspid papillary muscle resulted from infarction of the base of anterior papillary muscle of the right ventricle (RV) confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. As the septomarginal band is frequently lit up by intracoronary contrast that particular attention should be paid to the RV papillary muscles. And, if the papillary muscles or the RV free wall is brightened, then the use of that septal artery should be avoided.
The role of intraoperative epicardial echocardiography in pediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Ozturk Erkut , Cansaran Tanidir Ibrahim , Ayyildiz Pelin , Gokalp Selman , Candas Kafali Hasan , Sahin Murat , Ergul Yakup , Haydin Sertac , Guzeltas Alper
Published: March 2018

Aim

Our aim was to evaluate the findings and the role of intraoperative epicardial echocardiography (IEE) in the management of pediatric cardiac surgery patients.

Methods

Patients evaluated with IEE between December 2015 and December 2017 were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic data, preoperative transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), and IEE reports were evaluated.

Results

A total of 410 patients evaluated by IEE were included in the study. Of these, 52% were women, and 48% were men. The median age was 8.5 months (range: 1 month–7 years), and median body weight was 7.1 kg (range: 3.3–61 kg). The most common diagnoses were tetralogy of Fallot (TOF; n = 148), ventricular septal defect (VSD; n = 117), atrial septal defect (ASD; n = 57), and complete atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD; n = 48). There were minor residual lesions not requiring reestablishment of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in 16.6% (n = 68), while major residual lesions requiring return to CPB were determined in 5.1% (n = 21). Major residual lesions were detected in 7 patients with TOF (4 severe right ventricular outflow tract obstructions, 2 pulmonary artery stenosis, 1 residual VSD shunt), 6 patients with VSD (hemodynamically significant residual shunts), and 5 patients with complete AVSD (3 left atrioventricular valve regurgitations, 1 right atrioventricular valve regurgitation, 1 left ventricular outflow tract obstruction). Transient bradycardia was observed in 5 patients.

Conclusion

Intraoperative epicardial echocardiography provides good guidance during congenital heart surgery. IEE helps to clarify the surgical planning and decreases morbidity and mortality due to unnecessary invasive procedures, especially for pathologies involving the pulmonary artery and its branches, as well as for apical ventricular septal defects.
An unusual “mass” within the left atrium: Localized aneurysm of a patent foramen ovale tunnel
Authors: Güvenç Tolga S. , Güzelburç Özge , Asarcikli Lale Dinç , Can Fatma , Çetin Güvenç Rengin , Eren Mehmet
Published: March 2018

Masses on the interatrial septum are usually caused by myxomas or thrombi within a patent foramen ovale. We report a 53‐year‐old male patient with a hollow mass within the left atrium that was incidentally found during a routine transthoracic echocardiography. Further investigation of the mass with transesophageal two‐ and three‐dimensional echocardiography has revealed that the mass was a localized aneurysm of a patent foramen ovale tunnel. While aneurysms of interatrial septum are relatively common in normal population, to the best of our knowledge, present case is the first report of a localized aneursym of a patent foramen ovale tunnel.