bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor VII Gene Polymorphisms Contribute About One Third of the Factor VII Level Variation in Plasma
Authors: Bernardi Francesco , Marchetti Giovanna , Pinotti Mirko , Arcieri Paolo , Baroncini Claudia , Papacchini Maddalena , Zepponi Enrico , Ursicino Nadia , Chiarotti Flavia , Mariani Guglielmo
Published: February 2020

To assess the role of genetic variation in determining factor VII (FVII) activity and antigen levels we studied a polymorphism located in the 5′ region of the gene (5′F7), an intronic mutation (IVS7), and the
353
Arg-Gln polymorphism. All the polymorphisms, which showed strong allelic association, analyzed separately or in combination by the one-way analysis of variance, were associated with significantly different FVII levels. The 5′F7 and
353
Arg-Gln polymorphic systems, which have very similar allele frequencies, contributed to a similar extent to the total phenotypic variance, whereas the contribution of the IVS7 polymorphism was lower. Genetic variation at the FVII locus, evaluated on combined genotypes, accounted for up to 40% of the phenotypic FVII variance. As also shown by the two-way analysis of variance, the use of two out of three markers is advisable, and since the 5′F7 polymorphism can be screened by a simple immunoassay, it should be preferred for population-based studies. No substantial differences between FVII activity and FVII antigen levels were found, thus suggesting that the variation was due to biosynthesis- or stabilitymediated mechanisms. The genetic control of FVII levels described in this study plays an important role in determining plasma FVII level variability, which may influence the hemostatic balance.

(Arterioscler Thromb Vase Biol.
1996;16:72-75.)
FURIN
Expression in Vascular Endothelial Cells Is Modulated by a Coronary Artery Disease–Associated Genetic Variant and Influences Monocyte Transendothelial Migration
Authors: Yang Xu , Yang Wei , McVey David G. , Zhao Guojun , Hu Jinfu , Poston Robin N. , Ren Meixia , Willeit Karin , Coassin Stefan , Willeit Johann , Webb Thomas R. , Samani Nilesh J. , Mayr Manuel , Kiechl Stefan , Ye Shu
Published: February 2020

Background

Genome‐wide association studies have shown an association between the single‐nucleotide polymorphism
rs17514846
on chromosome 15q26.1 and coronary artery disease susceptibility. The underlying biological mechanism is, however, not fully understood.
rs17514846
is located in the FES Upstream Region (

FURIN

) gene, which is expressed in vascular endothelial cells (ECs). We investigated whether
rs17514846
has an influence on

FURIN

expression in ECs and whether
FURIN
affects EC behavior.

Methods and Results

Quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that cultured vascular ECs from individuals carrying the coronary artery disease risk allele of
rs17514846
had higher

FURIN

expression than cells from noncarriers. In support, luciferase reporter analyses in ECs indicated that the risk allele had higher transcriptional activity than the nonrisk allele. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays using EC nuclear protein extracts detected a
DNA
‐protein complex with allele‐specific differential binding of a nuclear protein. Knockdown of
FURIN
in ECs reduced endothelin‐1 secretion, nuclear factor‐κB activity, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, and MCP1 (monocyte chemotactic protein‐1) expression and monocyte‐endothelial adhesion and transmigration. A population‐based study showed an association of the
rs17514846
risk allele with higher circulating MCP1 levels and greater carotid intima‐media thickness.

Conclusions

The coronary artery disease risk variant at the 15q26.1 locus modulates

FURIN

expression in vascular ECs.
FURIN
levels in ECs affect monocyte‐endothelial adhesion and migration.
Clinical Implications of “Tailored” Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With Chronic Total Occlusion
Authors: De Gregorio Maria Grazia , Marcucci Rossella , Migliorini Angela , Gori Anna Maria , Giusti Betti , Vergara Ruben , Paniccia Rita , Carrabba Nazario , Marchionni Niccolò , Valenti Renato
Published: February 2020

Background

Clopidogrel nonresponsiveness is a prognostic marker after percutaneous coronary intervention. Prasugrel and ticagrelor provide a better platelet inhibition and represent the first‐line antiplatelet treatment in acute coronary syndrome. We sought to assess the prognostic impact of high platelet reactivity (HPR) and the potential clinical benefit of a “tailored” escalated or changed antiplatelet therapy in patients with chronic total occlusion.

Methods and Results

From Florence CTO‐PCI (chronic total occlusion‐percutaneous coronary intervention) registry, platelet function assessed by light transmission aggregometry, was available for 1101 patients. HPR was defined by adenosine diphosphate test ≥70% and optimal platelet reactivity by adenosine diphosphate test <70%. The endpoint of the study was long‐term cardiac survival. Patients were stratified according to light transmission aggregometry results: optimal platelet reactivity (82%) and HPR (18%). Means for the adenosine diphosphate test were 44±16% versus 77±6%, respectively. Three‐year survival was significantly higher in the optimal platelet reactivity group compared with HPR patients (95.3±0.8% versus 86.2±2.8%;
P
<0.001). With the availability of new P2Y
12
inhibitors, a deeper platelet inhibition (46±17%) and similar survival to the optimal platelet reactivity group were achieved in patients with HPR on clopidogrel therapy after escalation. Conversely, HPR on clopidogrel therapy “not switched” was associated with cardiac mortality (hazard ratio 2.37;
P
=0.003) after multivariable adjustment.

Conclusions

HPR on treatment could be a modifiable prognostic marker by new antiaggregants providing a deeper platelet inhibition associated with clinical outcome improvement in complex chronic total occlusion patients. A “tailored” antiplatelet therapy, also driven by the entity of platelet inhibition, could be useful in these high risk setting patients.
Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source and Sleep Disorders
Authors: Dharmakulaseelan Laavanya , Chan-Smyth Nathan , Black Sandra E. , Swartz Richard H. , Murray Brian J. , Boulos Mark I.
Published: February 2020

Background and Purpose—

Compared with other causes of ischemic stroke, the mechanism of action of embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) remains unclear, with previous literature suggesting that ESUS may be due to an undetected cardioembolic source. This study aimed to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of ESUS through current knowledge of sleep disorders.

Methods—

Patients were included in this study if they sustained an ischemic stroke and completed either polysomnography or a home sleep apnea test. Strokes were classified into 1 of 6 mechanisms and were compared with the presence of sleep disorders (ie, obstructive sleep apnea, periodic limb movements, and abnormalities in sleep architecture).

Results—

There was a significant relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and cardioembolic stroke mechanism compared with the other stroke mechanisms (
P
=0.018). There was no significant relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and ESUS (
P
=0.585). Patients with ESUS were significantly more likely to have an elevated periodic limb movement index (
P
=0.037) and prolonged sleep onset latency (
P
=0.0166) compared with patients with other causes of stroke.

Conclusions—

ESUS was not associated with markers of cardioembolic stroke such as obstructive sleep apnea. There was a significant relationship between ESUS and elevated periodic limb movements and impaired sleep architecture, which suggests that ESUS may have a multifactorial underlying pathophysiology.
Capitalism and Earth System Governance: An Ecological Marxist Approach
Authors: Albert Michael J.
Published: February 2020

Growing recognition of the Anthropocene era has led to a chorus of calls for Earth System Governance (ESG). Advocates argue that humanity’s newfound sociotechnical powers require institutional transformations at all scales of governance to wield these powers with wisdom and foresight. Critics, on the other hand, fear that these initiatives embody a technocratic impulse that aims to subject the planet to expert management without addressing the political-economic roots of the earth system crisis. This article proposes a more affirmative engagement with existing approaches to ESG while also building on these critiques. While advocates of ESG typically ignore the capitalistic roots of the earth system crisis and propose tepid reforms that risk authoritarian expressions, their critics also have yet to systematically consider the potential for more democratic and postcapitalist forms of ESG. In response, I propose an ecological Marxist approach based on a structural analysis of capitalism as the primary driver of the earth system crisis and an “ecosocialist” vision of ESG that subordinates the market to democratic planning at multiple scales. I argue that an ecological Marxist perspective is needed to foreground the structural political-economic constraints on earth system stability, though existing approaches to ESG can in turn inform ecosocialist strategies for global institutional design and democratization.
Managerial Styles, Workforce Composition and Labor Unrest: East Asian-Invested Enterprises in China
Authors: Choi Young-Jin
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates how labor disputes have been differentially affected by the interplay of organizational characteristics, institutional structure, work conditions, as well as the characteristics of labor force by country origin of East Asian-owned firms and location of industry in China. It also analyzes how different managerial styles such as personal (arbitrarily regulatory), authoritarian and institutionalized paternalism affect workers’ satisfaction with labor relations and the frequency of labor disputes at each country origin of those firms. The survey research was undertaken at thirty-nine factories in coastal cities from 2000 to 2001 with 39 managers and 291 workers as respondents.
Let Us Not Forget about the Role of Domestic Courts in Settling Investor-State Disputes
Authors: Gáspár-Szilágyi Szilárd
Published: February 2020

This overview illustrates that there is a gap in our knowledge of how domestic courts handle investor-State disputes. As it turns out, some foreign investors use the domestic courts of the host State prior to initiating investment treaty arbitration. Subject matter-wise, these cases are very diverse and not all of them are initiated by investors against the host State. Moreover, in the four countries analysed, investors often appealed to the highest courts of the land, but they lost more cases than they won. These findings should help UNCITRAL Working Group III conceptualize the meaning of “investor-State dispute” and the relationship between domestic and international methods of ISDS. This overview concludes by inviting further empirical research to understand how domestic courts handle investor-State disputes. This in turn can help us develop normative arguments as to why domestic courts should be included in the reform process.
Procedural Developments at the International Criminal Court (2018)
Authors: Le Floch Guillaume , Lemey Marie , Paiola Lucie
Published: February 2020

The current column covers selected procedural developments at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in 2018. During the reporting period, the Court continued to face a number of challenges. Nevertheless, this did not prevent the ICC from further developing its jurisprudence, and, indeed, as occurred in other recent years, it delivered numerous decisions.
A new species of the genus Parapachymorpha Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1893 (Phasmida, Phasmatidae, Clitumninae) from Laos
Authors: JANG CHANG-MOON , BAE YANG˗SEOP
Published: February 2020

Parapachymorpha is one of eight genera within the tribe Medaurini of subfamily Clitumninae (Phasmatidae). It was established by Brunner von Wattenwyl (1893), with the type species Parapachymorpha nigra by subsequent designation of Kirby (1904), from Myanmar. Species of this genus are widely distributed in oriental tropics (Laos, China, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam and Cambodia), with only 11 known species in the world (Brock et al. 2018, Ho 2017). Species of the genus Parapachymorpha can be recognized by following characters (Brunner von Wattenwyl 1893;1907, Henmemann & Conle 2008, Ho 2017): 1) body robust in female and slender in male with long leg in relation to the length; 2) body surface of female granulose or spinose; 3) mesonotum of female more and less expanded posteriorly; 4) abdominal tergites lacking expanded prostero–lateral angles in both sexes; 5) laminal supraanalis undeveloped in female; 6) semi–tergite of male irregularly rectangular, with an additional finger­–like ventro–apical appendix on the lower margin and reduced or absent; 7) egg capsule oval to oblong and covered with a raised net–like structure in lateral view; 8) micropylar plate oval; 9) operculum concave or convex. In the present study, we describe additional species, Parapachymorpha minuta sp. nov. from Laos, with photographs of both sexes of adults and egg.
Description of the immature stages of the Neotropical whirligig beetle Gyrinus (Neogyrinus) rozei Ochs, 1953 (Coleoptera: Gyrinidae) and first report of the parasitoid wasp Melanosmicra sp. (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) on a Gyrinus species
Authors: COLPANI DANIARA , BENETTI CÉSAR JOÃO , HAMADA NEUSA , ANDRADE-SOUZA VANDERLY , SCHOENINGER KARINE , MICHAT MARIANO C.
Published: February 2020

In most species of Gyrinidae, the immature stages are unknown, especially due to the difficulty in collecting the juveniles and assigning them to a particular species. Molecular association is a feasible technique that may solve this problem. Recent studies have used DNA sequence data, specifically the gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI), to associate immature and adult stages, thus enabling the description of the former. The objectives of this study were (1) to describe and illustrate the immature stages of Gyrinus (Neogyrinus) rozei Ochs, 1953 including morphometric, chaetotaxic and bionomic information, and (2) to assess the usefulness of the gene COI to associate immatures and adults of Gyrinus. The studied specimens were collected in Roraima state, northern Brazil. The association of immature and adult stages was done either by rearing adults under laboratory conditions or by using DNA sequence data (COI). Eggs were described based on scanning electron microscopy; they are distinguished mainly by several features of chorion, micropyle and reticulation. Larvae of G. (N.) rozei can be distinguished from those of other Neotropical Gyrinidae by a combination of several characters, including the stipes with five robust hook-like additional setae on the dorsointernal margin, and the lacinia roughly hook-shaped. The pupa is similar to that of G. argentinus Steinhel, 1869, except for the number of setae on the body. The first record of the parasitoid wasp Melanosmicra sp. (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) on a Gyrinus species is also provided.
Therapeutic Implications of Transference Structures in Various Personality Pathologies
Authors: Kernberg Otto F.
Published: February 2020

Definitions of specific organizations of transference developments are proposed for neurotic, borderline, narcissistic, schizoid, symbiotic, and psychotic character structures. These distinct organizations of transference developments correspond to the underlying characteristics of internalized object relations stemming from the conflictual implications of split-off, idealized, and persecutory self- and object representations. The transference structures described have implications for the corresponding application of psychoanalytic technique. Clinical cases illustrate the relationship between personality structure, transference organization, and psychoanalytic techniques.
Cultivating beneficiary citizenship in urban community gardens in Metro Manila
Authors: Saguin Kristian
Published: February 2020

This paper introduces ‘beneficiary citizenship’ as a way to understand a form of urban citizenship that has emerged from shifts in state–citizen relations. Through the case of state-initiated urban community gardens in Metro Manila, it examines beneficiary citizenship as conditionally granting urban dwellers welfare, entitlements or recognition in the city in return for their transformation into good, responsible citizens. Beneficiary citizenship captures the dual forces of neoliberal technologies of government and alternative citizenship claims that are simultaneously present in various participatory and community-centred state projects. Case study gardens established in a resettlement housing project, in a poverty reduction programme and in a gated village in Metro Manila all seek to cultivate good citizen traits deemed worthy of being granted recognition in the city through a transformation of self and the community. Yet, beneficiaries in these projects also use their good gardener/citizen subjectivity to mobilise ends different from those intended by garden projects as technologies of government. Community gardens therefore become spaces where urban dwellers articulate citizenship by combining various strategies granted by their participation in the projects, exceeding attempts to order and contain urban life.
Constraints in Random Effects Age-Period-Cohort Models
Authors: Luo Liying , Hodges James S.
Published: February 2020

Random effects (RE) models have been widely used to study the contextual effects of structures such as neighborhoods or schools. The RE approach has recently been applied to age-period-cohort (APC) models that are unidentified because the predictors are exactly linearly dependent. However, research has not fully explained how the RE specification identifies these otherwise unidentified APC models. We address this challenge by first making explicit that RE-APC models have greater—not less—rank deficiency than the traditional fixed-effects model, followed by two empirical examples. We then provide intuition and a mathematical proof to explain that for APC models with one RE, treating one effect as an RE is equivalent to constraining the estimates of that effect’s linear component and the random intercept to be zero. For APC models with two REs, the effective constraints implied by the model depend on the true (i.e., in the data-generating mechanism) nonlinear components of the effects that are modeled as REs, so that the estimated linear components of the REs are determined by the true nonlinear components of those effects. In conclusion, RE-APC models impose arbitrary although highly obscure constraints and thus do not differ qualitatively from other constrained APC estimators.
Modelling building infiltration using the airflow network model approach calibrated by air-tightness test results and leak detection
Authors: Heim Dariusz , Miszczuk Artur
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a computational approach to air infiltration modelling and simulation validated by the blower door test results. In order to evaluate the potential of the airflow network method, three simulation models of the infiltration test were developed and calibrated by field measurements of leaked air change rate per hour at 50 Pa. Models were developed for existing building designs and constructed in low-energy standards differing in construction type and tightness. All leaks were precisely measured during field tests, defined as openings or cracks, numerically described and included in the model. The simulation results of calibrated models for other pressure differences revealed that the models’ accuracy is satisfactory. The differences between field tests and simulation results do not exceed 2.5%. Additionally, the calibrated models were used to estimate the infiltration heat losses of buildings in three different locations under continental climatic conditions. The results were compared with the steady-state method calculations made for the same building models and climatic conditions. It was proved that the steady-state method gives higher results of heat demand to cover infiltration losses than the simulation method. The final results depend on building location and vary between four and nine times.

Practical application: The computational modelling and building performance simulations are increasingly commonly used in engineering design. The proposed method of air-tightness modelling and calibration can be used at any phase of a building’s lifecycle, from design and construction to exploitation and maintenance. Using the proposed techniques, it is possible to estimate more realistic processes of air infiltration and its effect on a building’s energy consumption in comparison with the steady-state method. Moreover, the analysis includes the dynamic effect of boundary conditions (external air temperature, wind speed and direction), as well as the effects of the building site and the surroundings.
Nerve Injury During Ultrasound-Guided Thyroid Biopsy—A First Reported Complication of Permanent Vocal Fold Paralysis
Authors: Madden Lyndsay L. , Nagatsuka Moeko , Vasi Azeem Z. , Madrecha Jayesh , Smith Libby J.
Published: February 2020

Needle biopsy is a well-established component in the evaluation of thyroid nodules. The biopsy is usually performed with an ultrasound guidance and consists of either fine-needle aspiration or core needle biopsy. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, their difference is important. To our knowledge, we discuss the first reported case of biopsy-proven laryngeal nerve injury and permanent vocal fold paralysis following ultrasound-guided core biopsy of the thyroid. We advocate this complication be discussed as part of the consent process.
The Developmental State and Public Participation: The Case of Energy Policy-making in Post–Fukushima Japan
Authors: Saito Hiro
Published: February 2020

After the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, the Japanese government tried to democratize energy policy-making by introducing public participation. Over the course of its implementation, however, public participation came to be subordinated to expert committees as the primary mechanism of policy rationalization. The expert committees not only neutralized the results of public participation but also discounted the necessity of public participation itself. This trajectory of public participation, from its historic introduction to eventual collapse, can be fully explained only in reference to complex interactions between the macroinstitutions and microsituations of Japanese policy-making at the time of the nuclear disaster: the macroinstitutional reassembling of the developmental state to reallocate more power from the bureaucracy to the cabinet office and the civil society vis-à-vis the microsituational, shifting power dynamics involving political parties, citizens and NGOs, businesses and labor unions, and other relevant actors. This case study thus helps advance the growing science and technology studies research on how the macro and microparameters of policy-making, ranging from the durable institutions of nation-states to situationally specific political struggles, combine to shape the designs, implementations, and policy influences of public participation at particular places and times as well as in particular policy domains.
Labour and Penal Control in the Criminal Tribes ‘Industrial’ Settlements in Early Twentieth Century Western India
Authors: Gould William , Lunt Andrew
Published: February 2020

One of the key problems with the official archival sources for India’s so-called ‘Criminal Tribes’ is that there is very little that captures the everyday lives of communities who were subjected to the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA), beyond the penal institution. This article explores how we can tease out new material on the work, politics and movements of erstwhile Criminal Tribes by looking at reformatory ‘industrial’ settlements, established between the 1910s and 1930s in Bombay Presidency, as a means of employing communities notified under the CTA in public works and other large-scale industrial projects. Along with identifying the administrative rationale for these settlements, their locational significance and longevity, this article explores the particular forms of surveillance that were developed around industrial work, and the experiences of labour within them. It argues that definitions of ‘criminality’ were, to some extent, negotiated around cultures of work, which drew in ideas about the family unit, traditions of movement and migration, the relationship between cities and their hinterland, and the requirements of capitalist industrial enterprise.
The relationship between men’s peer and social media muscularity ideal discrepancies and body satisfaction
Authors: Flynn Mark Allen , Cotchett Emily , Lin Linda
Published: February 2020

Previous studies have shown that discrepancy between perceptions of one’s actual body type and the ideal bodies of their peers is an important factor for one’s body satisfaction. However, there is a lack of research assessing the formation of media-specific discrepancies, the impact of different types of discrepancies together, and discrepancies in adult men. The current study explored the impact of adult men’s actual and ideal body perceptions on their body satisfaction. Data were collected on the discrepancies between men’s actual muscularity and perceptions of their off-line male and female peers’ male ideal, and perceptions of the male ideal from men and women on social networking sites (SNSs). A total of 277 adult men ( Mage = 36.55; SD = 11.34) completed a survey online. Actual–ideal discrepancies were present for all four comparison ideals. Overall body satisfaction was significantly linked to the close female friend ideal discrepancy, whereas muscularity satisfaction was connected to all four comparison ideals. Body fat satisfaction was not impacted by any of the discrepancies. The most significant predictor of muscularity satisfaction was the close female friends’ ideal discrepancy. Implications suggest the continued use of self-discrepancy theory in new contexts, and continued importance of off-line relationships, despite SNS use.
Prevalence, potential risk factors and mortality rates of acute respiratory distress syndrome in Chinese patients with sepsis
Authors: Li Shilei , Zhao Danna , Cui Jie , Wang Lizeng , Ma Xiaohua , Li Yong
Published: February 2020

Objective

To investigate the prevalence, risk factors and mortality rate for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in Chinese patients with sepsis.

Methods

This prospective study was based on data from consecutive patients with sepsis who attended Cangzhou Central Hospital between January 2017 and May 2019 and who developed ARDS. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated independently with ARDS development.

Results

Of the 150 sepsis patients, 41 (27%) developed ARDS. Smoking history, presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores were associated with developing ARDS. Moreover, combination of the four factors had an even better predictive value for risk of ARDS than each factor alone. 28-day mortality was higher in sepsis patients with ARDS compared with those without ARDS.

Conclusions

In Chinese patients with sepsis, ARDS is relatively common and is associated with increased mortality. Smoking, COPD, CRP levels and APACHE II scores may be useful in predicting sepsis patients who may be at risk of developing ARDS.
Nitrate partially inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation by maintaining mitochondrial function
Authors: Yang Yang , Li Shaoqing , Qu Yi , Wang Xue , An Wei , Li Zhilin , Han Zhengxue , Qin Lizheng
Published: February 2020

Objective

Nitrate has been reported to protect cells via the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide (NO) pathway. Most studies tend to use nitrite to investigate the mechanisms of this pathway. However, the latest studies have confirmed that mammals can directly degrade nitrate via xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR). The hypothesis is that nitrate could play a protective role in inflammatory responses independent of bacterial nitrate reductases.

Methods

Mouse RAW264.7 macrophages were pre-incubated with sodium nitrate (10, 100, and 500 µM) for 2 hours, and then treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 2 hours to induce inflammation. The Quantikine Immunoassay was used to measure interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) concentrations in the supernatant. The fluorescence intensity ratio of red/green from JC-1 was used to assay mitochondrial membrane potential. The fluorescence intensity of MitoSOX Red was used to indicate the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species.

Results

Nitrate partially reduced IL-6 and TNF-α secretion via reducing NF-κB signaling in LPS-induced macrophages. Nitrate also reduced the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species by regulating mitochondrial function. These effects depended on XOR-derived NO but were independent of inducible nitric oxide synthase-derived NO.

Conclusion

Nitrate regulates mitochondrial function via XOR-derived NO to partially inhibit LPS-induced inflammation.
Effect of Normal Saline Injections on Lateral Epicondylitis Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Acosta-Olivo Carlos Alberto , Millán-Alanís Juan Manuel , Simental-Mendía Luis Ernesto , Álvarez-Villalobos Neri , Vilchez-Cavazos Félix , Peña-Martínez Víctor Manuel , Simental-Mendía Mario
Published: February 2020

Background:

Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is a painful degenerative disorder that commonly occurs in adults between 40 and 60 years of age. Normal saline (NS) injections have been used as placebo through a large number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focused on the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Purpose:

This meta-analysis of RCTs aimed to assess the therapeutic effect of NS injections on lateral epicondylitis symptoms and compare results with established minimal clinically important difference criteria.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched for clinical trials reporting pain and joint function with the visual analog scale, Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand in patients with lateral epicondylitis. The meta-analysis was conducted with a random effects model and generic inverse variance method. Heterogeneity was tested with the I2 statistic index.

Results:

A total of 15 RCTs included in this meta-analysis revealed a significant improvement in pain (mean difference, 3.61 cm [95% CI, 2.29-4.92 cm]; P < .00001; I2 = 88%; visual analog scale) and function (mean difference, 25.65 [95% CI, 13.30-37.99]; P < .0001; I2 = 82%; Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation / Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) after NS injection (≥6 months).

Conclusion:

NS injections yielded a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in pain and functional outcomes in patients with lateral epicondylitis. New research should focus on better methods to diminish the potential confounders that could lead to this effect because NS injections could mask the real effect of an active therapeutic intervention in RCT.

Registration:

CRD42019127547 (PROSPERO).
Ischemic Therapy in Musculoskeletal Medicine
Authors: Ramme Austin J. , Rourke Brennan J. , Larson Christopher M. , Bedi Asheesh
Published: February 2020

Background:

The competitive environment of athletics has promoted the exploration of any technology application that may offer an edge with performance and recovery from injury. Ischemic therapy is one such technology that has rapidly been incorporated into training rooms and physical therapy clinics worldwide. This therapy modality is reported to increase an athlete’s ability to improve muscle mass, strength, and endurance.

Purpose:

To provide the sports medicine physician with an understanding of the current state of ischemic therapy technology, including treatment specifications, known physiological effects, hypothesized mechanisms, biochemical effects, athletic applications, medical applications, animal models, and future research recommendations.

Study Design:

Literature review.

Methods:

A computer-based search of the PubMed database was used to perform a comprehensive literature review on musculoskeletal ischemic therapy.

Results:

The current research on ischemic therapy is largely composed of case series with varying equipment, methods, and therapy specifications. The publication of case series has value in identifying this technology for future research, but the results of these studies should not be justification for application to athletes without validation of safety and effectiveness.

Conclusion:

To date, ischemic therapy remains unvalidated, and the mechanism by which it improves muscle performance is not clear.
Does the Rank of the Perpetrator and Reporter Affect How Agencies Handle Workplace Aggression? A Test of Resource Dependence Theory
Authors: Caillier James Gerard
Published: February 2020

Workplace aggression is a concern in many organizations. Despite this, research has not significantly examined whether or not organizations stop workplace aggression. Little is known about hierarchical aggression, coworker aggression, subordinate aggression, and agencies’ tolerance or rejections of such behavior. This study begins to fill this void by exploring what happens after employees report workplace aggression. More specifically, this study uses data from the Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) to examine workplace aggression committed by coworkers, supervisors, and subordinates and (a) the likelihood that perpetrators/agencies will retaliate against reporters of workplace aggression and (b) the likelihood that agencies will correct the adverse behavior in a manner that satisfactorily addresses the observers’ concerns. The findings in this article demonstrate that reporters of hierarchical aggression are more likely to face retaliation and less likely to get the behavior stopped than reporters of coworker aggression. Reporters of subordinate aggression, on the other hand, were not found to impact retaliation or corrective actions. Furthermore, the findings regarding retaliation were found to vary depending on whether or not the reporter was the target of the aggression.
Lactate Measurements and Their Association With Mortality in Pediatric Severe Sepsis in India: Evidence That 6-Hour Level Performs Best
Authors: Alam Areesha , Gupta Sarika
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To investigate association of static and dynamic lactate indices with early mortality (within 48 hours of admission), as well as need for vasopressors and mechanical ventilation in pediatric severe sepsis/shock. To explore optimal cutoffs of lactate indices. We hypothesized that dynamic indices are superior to static indices in predicting early mortality.

Methods:

This prospective cohort study involved children (aged <14 years) admitted in emergency department, tertiary care teaching hospital in North India with severe sepsis/shock (2015-2016). Arterial lactate was measured at admission (X0) and after 6 hours (X6). Primary outcome of the measurement was early mortality. Association between lactate indices— lactate at 0 hours (Lac0), lactate after 6 hours (Lac6), time-weighted average (LacTW), delta (ΔLac), clearance (LacCl%) and early mortality, need for vasopressors, and mechanical ventilation—was assessed using Student t test/Mann-Whitney test. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) for early mortality deduced for all lactate indices and compared with reference (Lac0). Optimal cutoffs (maximizing both sensitivity and specificity) and their positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were determined.

Results:

During the study period, 116 children were assessed. Septic shock was present at admission in 56.9% children; 50% of children died during the next 48 hours. Lac0, Lac6, and LacTW were significantly higher, and LacCl% was lower in nonsurvivors versus survivors (all P < .001). Lac6 (0.837 [0.76-0.91]) had significantly higher AUROC (95% confidence interval) than Lac0 (0.77; P = .03). Abnormal lactate metrics (higher Lac0, Lac6, LacTW, and lower LacCl%) were associated with vasopressors need and mechanical ventilation. On logistic regression, Lac6 emerged as an independent predictor of early mortality as well as vasopressor and mechanical ventilation need. The optimal cutoff of Lac6 for identifying early mortality with good sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV was ≥2.65 (76, 85, 83, 78).

Conclusions:

Lactate6 is the best marker associated with early mortality and higher level of care in severe sepsis/septic shock in resource-poor regions.
Multipoint design optimization for a controlled diffusion airfoil compressor cascade
Authors: Huang Song , Yang Chengwu , Han Ge , Zhao Shengfeng , Lu Xingen
Published: February 2020

Under high altitude and low Reynolds number conditions, the aerodynamic performance of compressor cascades deteriorates drastically. In this paper, an optimally designed system combining class-shape-transformation method, S1 surface flow solver and whale optimization algorithm was established to achieve for a controlled diffusion airfoil, called MANGHH. The aim of this work is to improve our understanding of the loss mechanism for the original cascade and optimal cascade under different inflow conditions. The study shows that the total pressure loss of the optimal cascade at an angle of attack of −4°, 0°, and 6° decreases by 55.9%, 16.1%, and 16.3%, respectively, compared with the original controlled diffusion airfoil. The range of the available low loss incidence improves significantly. At different incidences, the optimal cascade moves the blade loading forward compared with that of the original controlled diffusion airfoil while reducing the growth rate of the boundary layer thickness, eliminating a wide range of flow separations. The optimal cascade reduces the total pressure loss mainly by reducing trailing edge mixing loss compared with that of the original controlled diffusion airfoil. Under different inlet Mach number conditions, a laminar separation bubble appears on the suction surface of the original controlled diffusion airfoil. As the inlet Mach number increases, the position of the laminar separation bubble moves slightly upstream, while the length and depth of the laminar separation bubble increase. Fortunately, the total pressure loss of the optimal cascade decreases significantly compared with that of the original controlled diffusion airfoil. Under different incoming turbulence intensity conditions, the total pressure loss of the optimal cascade is always lower than that of the original controlled diffusion airfoil. As the incoming turbulence intensity increases, the total pressure loss of the original controlled diffusion airfoil decreases first and then increases. However, the total pressure loss of the optimal cascade increases with increasing incoming turbulence intensity due to the improvement of the turbulence dissipation capacity.
Angiotensin II receptor agonist antibodies are associated with microvascular damage in lupus nephritis
Authors: Mejia-Vilet J M , López-Hernández Y J , Santander-Vélez J I , Trujeque-Matos M , Cruz C , Carranza de la Torre C A , Espinosa-Cruz V , Espinosa-González R , Uribe-Uribe N O , Morales-Buenrostro L E
Published: February 2020

Angiotensin II type 1 receptor agonist antibodies (AT1R-AAs) have been associated with hypertension, atherosclerosis and vascular inflammation in human diseases. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of AT1R-AAs in active lupus nephritis (LN) patients and their association with vascular damage. One hundred and seven active LN patients underwent a complete clinical examination, measurement of AT1R-AAs, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, carotid intima-media thickness measurement and morphometric analysis of subintimal fibrosis and medial hyperplasia of the vessels in the kidney tissue. Plasma AT1R-AAs were positive in 58 (54.2%) patients. The Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) score, complement C3 and C4 levels and titers of anti-dsDNA antibodies were higher in the group with positive AT1R-AAs compared with those with negative AT1R-AAs. The AT1R-AA titers correlated with anti-dsDNA antibody titers and with complement C3 and C4 serum levels. In the kidney biopsy, the percentage of subintimal fibrosis and the area of medial hyperplasia were greater in the AT1R-AA-positive patients. No differences in arterial pressure, carotid intima-media thickness and response to therapy were detected. In conclusion, AT1R-AAs are prevalent in active LN patients and are associated with histologic features of microvascular damage.
Along which identity lines does 21st-century Britain divide? Evidence from Big Brother
Authors: Lane Tom
Published: February 2020

This article measures discrimination in the reality TV show Big Brother, a high-stakes environment. Data on contestants’ nominations are taken from 35 series of the British version of the show, covering the years 2000–2016. Race and age discrimination are found, with contestants more likely to nominate those of a different race and those different in age from themselves. However, no discrimination is identified on the basis of gender, geographical region of origin, or level of education. Racial discrimination is driven by males, but females exhibit stronger age discrimination than males. Age discrimination is driven by the younger contestants discriminating against the older. Regional differences emerge, particularly between contestants from Greater London and those from the north of England; northerners have a stronger tendency to engage in racial and age discrimination, and to discriminate in favour of the opposite gender.
Improving Self-Efficacy of Student Asthma Management in Elementary and Preschool Staff
Authors: Arekapudi Krysten Lisella , Norris Casey , Updegrove Stephen
Published: February 2020

Asthma is a leading cause of chronic illness among school-aged children and adolescents. Current trends have led to school faculty and staff becoming increasingly responsible for managing student asthma, often without optimal training or resources. The purpose of this project was to establish whether facilitated access to personalized student asthma action plans (AAPs), education, proper use, and school nurse support improved reported self-efficacy regarding student asthma exacerbation prevention and management in elementary and preschool faculty and staff. Thirty-five participants from an urban, underserved Connecticut school were surveyed to determine perceived self-efficacy regarding student asthma exacerbation prevention and management. AAPs were then placed with students’ asthma inhalers, and all participants were instructed on their use. Three months later, participants were resurveyed. A statistically significant difference after both the initial education and 3-month survey was identified. Providing elementary and preschool faculty and staff with facilitated access to student action plans and education on their use can improve perceived self-efficacy regarding student asthma exacerbation prevention and management.
Differences in the presentation of stage 1 macular holes illustration by optical coherence tomography
Authors: Bentaleb Machkour Zaïnab , Garweg Justus G , Bandello Francesco , Denis Philippe , Kodjikian Laurent
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To present two different phases of progression of Gass stage 1 foveolar detachment to lamellar or full-thickness macular holes revealed with spectral domain optical coherence tomography.

Design:

This is an observational study.

Participants:

The medical records of four patients (four eyes) with foveolar detachment that had evolved into stage 1 macular holes were compared. The patients manifested neither co-existing myopia nor any other ocular pathology.

Methods:

At each consultation, best-corrected visual acuity, dilated fundus examination, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography were performed to ascertain whether the foveolar detachment was associated with posterior vitreal detachment.

Results:

In two of the eyes, and at an early phase of the disease, an incomplete posterior vitreal detachment and vitreal adhesion at the head of the optic nerve were observed. In the other two cases, the traction was not antero-posterior but tangential and had been effected by thickening of the inner limiting membrane or by the presence of a discrete epiretinal membrane in the papillomacular area; the posterior vitreal detachment was complete. In the former two cases and in one of the latter, the foveolar detachments had progressed to full-thickness macular holes. The visual acuities were better in the latter than in the former two eyes.

Conclusion:

Two different pathological mechanisms appear to underlie the formation of macular holes: The optical coherence tomography–guided classification of Gass stage 1 macular hole as an antero-posterior traction with a triangular foveolar detachment has to be distinguished from a tangential traction and a complete posterior vitreal detachment. Tangential traction is typically associated with a more dome-shaped or irregular foveolar detachment and a hyper-reflective band at the vitreoretinal interface.
Prostaglandin analogues: A double-edged sword in orbital glaucoma disease management
Authors: Joganathan Varajini , Cannon Paul S , Mercieca Karl
Published: February 2020

Introduction:

The authors describe benefits of the recognised adverse effects of prostaglandin analogues on periocular structures in patients with unilateral proptosis and intraocular pressure rise. This case points to intentional consideration of prostaglandin analogue therapy in this selected cohort of patients with secondary ocular hypertension and proptosis.

Case description:

A 70-year-old gentleman who presented with a 1-week history of a red and painful right eye associated with tortuous and dilated episcleral blood vessels. Visual acuity was unaffected. A diagnosis of idiopathic orbital inflammatory disease was made by extraocular muscle biopsy. Two weeks later, the patient presented with worsening pain, reduced vision and raised intraocular pressure. The secondary ocular hypertension was successfully treated with topical preserved eye drops, including latanoprost, a prostaglandin analogue. Over 6 months, the patient developed drop intolerance and punctate keratopathy leading to therapy non-adherence. Interestingly, the patient reported improvement in periocular appearance related to prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy. Ocular surface disease and intraocular pressures were subsequently managed with preservative-free eye drops.

Conclusion:

Secondary ocular hypertension is not an uncommon consequence of orbital disease. Prostaglandin analogue can act as a double-edged sword in the management of raised intraocular pressure by reducing eye pressure at the cost of developing adverse effects of prostaglandin-associated periorbitopathy. These adverse effects however can be beneficial in the aesthetic rehabilitation of proptosis and associated exposure keratopathy in patients with unilateral orbital disease and probably should be sought as first line treatment in those with proptosis and raised intraocular pressure.