bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human papillomavirus infection among male adolescents and young adults with perinatally-acquired HIV and without HIV in Thailand
Authors: Wittawatmongkol Orasri , Gatechompol Sivaporn , Kerr Stephen J , Chalermchockcharoenkit Amphan , Teeratakulpisarn Nipat , Lermankul Watcharee , Thamkhantho Manopchai , Phanuphak Nittaya , Sohn Annette H , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya ,   on behalf of the HPV in Adolescents Study
Published: July 2019

HIV infection may increase the risk of persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and complications. Male adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with perinatally-acquired HIV (PHIV) and without HIV in Thailand were matched by age and lifetime number of sexual partners. HPV infection at oral, anal, penile, and scrotal sites was detected by polymerase chain reaction. A total of 49 PHIV and 47 HIV-uninfected male AYAs (median age 18 [17–20] years) were enrolled (June 2013–September 2014). Overall, 18 were men who have sex with men (MSM) (12% of PHIV, 26% of HIV-uninfected AYAs; P = 0.12). Among the PHIV, the median (interquartile range) CD4 cell count was 573 (434–747) cells/mm3 and 69% had HIV RNA <40 copies/ml. The prevalence of any HPV infection was 61% in PHIV and 49% in HIV-uninfected AYAs ( P = 0.23) and that of high-risk HPV was 33% in PHIV and 28% in HIV-uninfected AYAs ( P = 0.59). Among those with HPV, 55% had any high-risk HPV type and 28% had HPV-16 and/or HPV-18. In multivariate models, smoking (OR 6.10, 95% CI, 1.19–31.35, P = 0.01) and prior history of STI symptoms (OR 5.01, 95% CI, 1.63–15.40, P = 0.004) were associated with high-risk HPV infection. HPV vaccination in early adolescence presents a valuable but missed prevention opportunity.
Prevalence of gonorrhea and chlamydia in a community clinic for men who have sex with men in Lisbon, Portugal
Authors: Ribeiro Sofia , de Sousa Diogo , Medina Diogo , Castro Rita , Lopes Ângela , Rocha Miguel
Published: July 2019

Men who have sex with men (MSM) are at greater risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Data on MSM chlamydia and gonorrhea prevalence estimates and associated risk factors are scarce. To our knowledge, this is the first study to describe the prevalence and the determinants of both chlamydia and gonorrhea infections in MSM in Portugal. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from 1832 visits to CheckpointLX, a community-based center for screening blood-borne viruses and other STIs in MSM. Overall prevalence of chlamydia or gonorrhea in our sample was 16.05%, with 14.23% coinfection and 40.73% asymptomatic presentation among those testing positive. Anorectal infection was most common for chlamydia (67.26%), followed by urethral (24.78%) and oral (19.47%) infection. Oral infection was most common for gonorrhea (55.63%), followed by anal (51.25%) and urethral (17.50%) infection. In multivariate analyses, young age ( U = 94684, p = 0.014), being foreign-born (χ2 = 11.724, p = 0.003), reporting STI symptoms (χ2 = 5.316, p = 0.021), inhaled drug use (χ2 = 4.278, p = 0.039) and having a higher number of concurrent (χ2 = 18.769, p < 0.001) or total (χ2 = 5.988, p = 0.050) sexual partners were each associated with higher rates of chlamydia or gonorrhea infection. Young and migrant MSM are a vulnerable population to STIs, as are those who use inhaled drugs and those with a higher number of concurrent or total sexual partners. Although Portugal has no guidelines on chlamydia and gonorrhea screening, our results point toward a need for greater awareness about the importance of high-frequency screening for those at increased risk (i.e., every three to six months).
Intra-anal use of imiquimod: what is the clinical evidence?
Authors: Gkegkes Ioannis D , Iavazzo Christos , Stamatiadis Apostolos P
Published: July 2019

Imiquimod has been demonstrated to be rather effective in patients with anal as well as perianal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs). Nevertheless, until now the intra-anal use of imiquimod has been considered off-label. The aim of this study is to review the clinical evidence related to the intra-anal use of imiquimod in the treatment of human papillomavirus-related anal lesions. A systematic search in PubMed and Scopus was performed. In total, 422 patients were included. The most common referred comorbidity was HIV infection (281 patients, 66.6%). The principal clinical entities, which were treated with intra-anal imiquimod, were HSILs. The most frequent formulation was self-applied imiquimod cream. In the HSIL group, there was complete healing in 74 patients (35%) and partial in 44 patients (20.9%), while in the wart group, there was complete healing in 128 patients (67%). Recurrence of HSIL was present in 19 patients (15%), while in cases with warts recurrence was present in 38 patients (19.8%). The most common adverse events were pain, itching, and burning sensation. In conclusion, the adverse effects associated with the intra-anal use of imiquimod seem to be minor. The present clinical evidence suggests that imiquimod may be proposed as effective, safe, and relatively well tolerated treatment.
Recognising an Ecological Ethic of Care in the Law of Everyday Shared Spaces
Authors: Holder Jane , McGillivray Donald
Published: July 2019

Law plays a vital role in the life and loss of open shared spaces, used and enjoyed on an everyday basis by local people. In this article, we adopt an analytical framework based on an ethic of care to critique the registration of land as a ‘town or village green’, using the example of an inquiry into the greens status of an ancient woodland. Analysing written and oral witness statements in this inquiry makes clear the centrality of such places in many people’s lives, giving rise to community-based, and forward-looking, interests. However, the legal focus upon quantitative assessments of individuals’ use of land in the recent past means that the prospective consequences of losing such valued areas are currently poorly acknowledged, and accounted for, in the registration process. This leads to the question whether an ethic of care towards everyday shared spaces may be better recognised via more deliberative plan-making regimes.
Factors affecting professional ethics development in students: A qualitative study
Authors: Dehghani Ali
Published: July 2019

Background:

Ethics development is one of the most important aspects of professional practice in health sciences students. Understanding factors affecting ethics development can enhance clinical and professional performance in students.

Objective:

This study was conducted to explore students’ perceptions about factors affecting professional ethics development.

Research design:

This study is a conventional content analysis. Data were collected through 20 semi-structured interviews and two focus group interviews (12 students) during 2017–2018. Data were analyzed concurrently with data gathering, using the conventional content analysis approach of Graneheim and Lundman.

Participants and research context:

In total, 8 students of nursing, 5 medical students, 4 students of anesthesia and 3 operating room students in individual interviews, and 12 students in two focus group interviews from one university in the south of Iran were selected through purposive sampling.

Ethical considerations:

The research was approved by the Ethics Committee of one university in the south of Iran.

Findings:

The findings revealed two themes: personal and background factors. Personal factors consisted of the two categories of individual motivation and tendencies and interpersonal interactions. Background factors consisted of the two categories of role and function of teachers and environmental agents.

Discussion and conclusions:

According to the findings, both background and individual factors affect development of professional ethics in students. Understanding these factors along with reinforcement of educational planning in this field can improve healthcare services.
Milan makes it to the big leagues: A financialized growth machine at work
Authors: Anselmi Guido , Vicari Serena
Published: July 2019

This article analyses the production of urban space in the globalizing city of Milan, Italy. The authors present the evolution of a 30-year development process in a semi-central area of the city known as Garibaldi Porta Nuova, contrasting present and past conditions. Initial attempts to develop the area began in the early 1980s but came to nothing; a previous study of the same area attributed that failure to the inability of fragmented local political elites to coalesce into an effective pro-growth coalition. In the early 2000s, a new coalition of political and economic actors, in particular financial and real estate interests, revived the process of regeneration and drove construction of a large-scale mixed-use project. This article offers an account of the process in terms of both the internal dynamics of the local coalition and the contextual and institutional factors framing the bargaining of political and economic elites over the development process. We use two theoretical frameworks – growth machine theory and regime theory – to assess the distribution of power and resources. Our analysis indicates that the outcome is the result of a specific growth machine fuelled by international capital, and that changes in the intergovernmental system in Italy induced local political elites to accommodate the requirements of international investors.
Lending Relationships, Borrowing Costs and Crisis: Evidence from Indian Micro Data
Authors: Ghosh Saibal
Published: July 2019

The analysis employs data on Indian listed firms from 1996 to 2010 to explore several hypotheses relating to the costs of lending relationships. The evidence indicates that smaller, established, levered and high-growth firms charge higher interest rates. In addition, capitalized firms charge lower rates, and both bank and firm ownership do have a role to play in influencing borrowing costs.
Measurement Invariance and Sex and Age Differences of the Big Five Inventory–2: Evidence From the Russian Version
Authors: Shchebetenko Sergei , Kalugin Aleksey Y. , Mishkevich Arina M. , Soto Christopher J. , John Oliver P.
Published: July 2019

The Big Five Inventory–2 (BFI-2) is a recently published 60-item questionnaire that measures personality traits within the five-factor model framework. An important aspect of the BFI-2 is that it measures the traits at both the domain and facet levels and also controls acquiescence bias via the balanced number of true- and false-keyed items across the domains and facets. The current research evaluates factorial measurement invariance of a Russian version of the BFI-2 across sex and age within samples of 1,024 university students (Study 1) and 1,029 Internet users (Study 2). Across these samples, men scored lower on the domains of negative emotionality and agreeableness and slightly higher on extraversion. Sex differences were also obtained on various facets. In the Internet sample, age correlated modestly with several Big Five domains in accordance with the well-documented maturity principle. The newly developed Russian version of BFI-2 showed good reliability and validity across both samples. Moreover, random intercept exploratory factor analyses showed that the BFI-2 displayed a hierarchical five-domain-15-facet structure that demonstrated strict measurement invariance across sex and age.
Misclassification of Medicaid Participation by Dual Eligibles: Evidence From the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey
Authors: Mellor Jennifer M. , McInerney Melissa , Sabik Lindsay M.
Published: July 2019

Previous studies show that survey-based reports of Medicaid participation are measured with error, but no prior study has examined measurement error in an important segment of the Medicaid population—low-income adults enrolled in Medicare. Using the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey, we examine whether respondent self-reports of Medicaid enrollment match administrative records and present several key findings. First, among low-income Medicare beneficiaries, the false negative rate is 11.5% when the self-report is interpreted as full Medicaid and 3.7% when the self-report is interpreted as full or partial Medicaid. Second, the likelihood of a false negative report is systematically associated with respondent traits. Third, systematic measurement error results in biased coefficient estimates in models of Medicaid participation defined from self-reports, and the bias is more significant when the researcher interprets self-reports as full Medicaid coverage only. Researchers should use caution when interpreting survey reports as pertaining to full Medicaid coverage only.
Immunoglobulins Treatment in Multiple Sclerosis and Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Achiron Anat , Miron Shmuel
Published: July 2019

Intravenously administered immunoglobulins (IgG) treatment has several modes of action that can regulate the immune response during different steps of the inflammatory process in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The immunomodulatory effects IgG are largely dependent on their ability to interact with membrane molecules of lymphocytes and monocytes. Better understanding of these mechanisms of action in relation to the pathogenesis of MS, is important in order to decide the time of initiation and the duration of treatment in MS patients. In order to have the best beneficial effect on disease course, future research should focus on the initial events that activate the disease and on the early treatment modalities of IgG in MS.
Angiotensin AT2 receptor–induced interleukin-10 attenuates neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder–like pathology
Authors: Khorooshi Reza , Tofte-Hansen Emil Ulrikkaholm , Tygesen Camilla , Montanana-Rosell Roser , Limburg Hannah Liska , Marczynska Joanna , Asgari Nasrin , Steckelings Ulrike Muscha , Owens Trevor
Published: July 2019

Background:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a relapsing inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disease for which there is no cure. Immunoglobulin G autoantibodies specific for the water channel aquaporin-4 are a serum biomarker, believed to induce complement-dependent astrocyte damage with secondary demyelination.

Objective:

To investigate the effect of angiotensin AT2 receptor (AT2R) stimulation on NMOSD-like pathology and its underlying mechanism.

Methods:

NMOSD-like pathology was induced in mice by intracerebral injection of immunoglobulin-G isolated from NMOSD patient serum, with complement. This mouse model produces the characteristic histological features of NMOSD. A specific AT2R agonist, Compound 21 (C21), was given intracerebrally at day 0 and by intrathecal injection at day 2.

Results:

Loss of aquaporin-4 and glial fibrillary acidic protein was attenuated by treatment with C21. Administration of C21 induced mRNA for interleukin-10 in the brain. NMOSD-like pathology was exacerbated in interleukin-10-deficient mice, suggesting a protective role. C21 treatment did not attenuate NMOSD-like pathology in interleukin-10-deficient mice, indicating that the protective effect of AT2R stimulation was dependent on interleukin-10.

Conclusion:

Our findings identify AT2R as a novel potential therapeutic target for the treatment of NMOSD. Interleukin-10 signaling is an essential part of the protective mechanism counteracting NMOSD pathology.
An ideology critique of nonideal methodology
Authors: Adams Matthew
Published: July 2019

Ideal theory has been extensively contested on the grounds that it is ideology: namely, that it performs the distorting social role of reifying and enforcing unjust features of the status quo. Indeed, a growing number of philosophers adopt a nonideal methodology—which dispenses with ideal theory—because of this ideology critique. I argue, however, that such philosophers are confused about the ultimate dialectical upshot of this critique even if it succeeds. I do so by constructing a parallel—equally plausible—ideology critique of nonideal methodology; specifically, I argue that capitalist and managerial social attitudes have commodified people’s conception of justice and induced suspicion of ideal theory, which is not construed as having direct practical value. Consequently, nonideal methodology performs the distorting role of reifying and enforcing the hegemonies of capitalism and managerialism. Ideal theory and nonideal methodology are, therefore, in symmetrically bad positions.
Combining Fluoxetine and rTMS in Poststroke Motor Recovery: A Placebo-Controlled Double-Blind Randomized Phase 2 Clinical Trial
Authors: Bonin Pinto Camila , Morales-Quezada Leon , de Toledo Piza Polyana Vulcano , Zeng Dian , Saleh Vélez Faddi Ghassan , Ferreira Isadora Santos , Lucena Pedro Henrique , Duarte Dante , Lopes Fernanda , El-Hagrassy Mirret M. , Rizzo Luiz Vicente , Camargo Erica C. , Lin David J. , Mazwi Nicole , Wang Qing Mei , Black-Schaffer Randie , Fregni Felipe
Published: July 2019

Background. Although recent evidence has shown a new role of fluoxetine in motor rehabilitation, results are mixed. We conducted a randomized clinical trial to evaluate whether combining repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with fluoxetine increases upper limb motor function in stroke. Methods. Twenty-seven hemiparetic patients within 2 years of ischemic stroke were randomized into 3 groups: Combined (active rTMS + fluoxetine), Fluoxetine (sham rTMS + fluoxetine), or Placebo (sham rTMS + placebo fluoxetine). Participants received 18 sessions of 1-Hz rTMS in the unaffected primary motor cortex and 90 days of fluoxetine (20 mg/d). Motor function was assessed using Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function (JTHF) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scales. Corticospinal excitability was assessed with TMS. Results. After adjusting for time since stroke, there was significantly greater improvement in JTHF in the combined rTMS + fluoxetine group (mean improvement: −214.33 seconds) than in the placebo (−177.98 seconds, P = 0.005) and fluoxetine (−50.16 seconds, P < 0.001) groups. The fluoxetine group had less improvement than placebo on both scales (respectively, JTHF: −50.16 vs −117.98 seconds, P = 0.038; and FMA: 6.72 vs 15.55 points, P = 0.039), suggesting that fluoxetine possibly had detrimental effects. The unaffected hemisphere showed decreased intracortical inhibition in the combined and fluoxetine groups, and increased intracortical facilitation in the fluoxetine group. This facilitation was negatively correlated with motor function improvement (FMA, r2 = −0.398, P = 0.0395). Conclusion. Combined fluoxetine and rTMS treatment leads to better motor function in stroke than fluoxetine alone and placebo. Moreover, fluoxetine leads to smaller improvements than placebo, and fluoxetine’s effects on intracortical facilitation suggest a potential diffuse mechanism that may hinder beneficial plasticity on motor recovery.
A high-emissive and stable luminescent silafluorene hybrid constructed by hydrosilylation
Authors: Tang Ping , Xiang Kai , Wei Huijie , Li Shuhong , Xu Caihong
Published: July 2019

Under Karstedt’s catalyst, an organic–inorganic hybrid fluorescent nano-molecular dendrimer has been synthesized by grafting silafluorene units onto the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane core through hydrosilylation reaction. The new hybrid molecule exhibits high solid fluorescence quantum efficiency because of the nano-size and large steric hindrance of the polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane core. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the thermal stability of the target compound is effectively improved by the presence of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane.
An approach to highly efficient reduction of β-enamino esters: A convenient synthesis of β-amino esters
Authors: Zhang Xingxian , Mi Nengju , Liu Hongtao , Liu Yingshuai
Published: July 2019

Chemoselective reduction of β-enamino esters with NaBH(OAc)3 promoted by MgI2 etherate affords the corresponding β-amino esters in excellent yields in a short time under mild conditions.
Synthesis of 9-biarylfluorenes by one-pot, three-step reactions of N-tosylhydrazones, p-bromobenzeneboronic acid, and arylboronic acids
Authors: He Jing , Zhang Jie , Dai Bin , Liu Ping
Published: July 2019

A one-pot, three-step reaction of N-tosylhydrazones, p-bromobenzeneboronic acid, and arylboronic acids is established for the synthesis of 9-biarylfluorenes. Sequential formation of Csp3–Csp2 bond and Csp2–Csp2 bonds using readily available starting materials leads to the 9-biarylfluorene products in good yields. The present transformation features a broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance.
Virtual Reality Avant la Lettre: Loutherbourg and the Origins of Urban Spectacle
Authors: West Shearer
Published: July 2019

Michael Booth's essays and books on Victorian theatre provided a formative and comprehensive set of scholarly works examining the origins of realism on the Victorian stage. Using Booth's arguments about the evolution of theatrical realism, this essay probes the notion of virtual reality and its impact on the spectator to examine the Eidophusikon – an invention of the artist, scene designer and engineer, Philippe Jacques de Loutherbourg. This essay examines this phenomenon in terms of how the urban spectacle plays out within it, the fundamental role of technology and science in its success, and the paradoxical play of realism and imagination in how his work was received by audiences experiencing its immersive effects in the age of panoramas and post-Newtonian ideas of light, sight and viewing.
A biomechanical comparison of the modified Bunnell pullout and Teo intraosseous suture techniques for attachment of tendon to bone
Authors: Ballesteros-Betancourt Jose , Rosales Roberto S. , García-Tarriño Raquel , Rios Jose , Combalia-Aleu Andrés , Llusá-Pérez Manuel
Published: July 2019

We compared the biomechanical properties of the Teo intraosseous suture technique with the modified Bunnell pullout technique in a cadaver model after a tendon to bone repair. Thirty-six fresh-frozen cadaveric fingers were assigned randomly to three groups (Teo, Bunnell and control groups). They were loaded cyclically from 2 to 15 N at 25 mm/min, for 500 cycles. Gap formation at the repair site was assessed every 100 cycles and then specimens were tested to failure. The Teo group had an approximately 30% smaller gap every 100 cycles and needed 30% more energy to obtain a 2 mm gap than the modified Bunnell group. Displacement after 500 cyclic loads was significantly lower in the Teo group than in the Bunnell group. For the failure of the Teo suture, it was necessary to apply 31% more load than the Bunnell technique.
Reliability and validity of the finger flexor dynamometer
Authors: Nestler Kai , Rohde Ulrich , Becker Benjamin , Waldeck Stephan , Veit Daniel A , Leyk Dieter
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Dynamometric measurement is a low-cost, noninvasive method for diagnosing and evaluating traumatic and degenerative disorders. The purpose of this study was to assess the reliability and validity of a new custom-made finger flexor dynamometer and evaluate the feasibility of the measuring procedure.

Methods

Maximum voluntary isometric contraction force at the distal phalanx of the index finger was measured for 1.5 s in 25 healthy volunteers (18–50 yrs). Test–retest reliability and inter-day reliability were assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient model (2,k) on two and five consecutive days, respectively. Both a single measurement and the mean of three repeated measurements were carried out daily. The standard error of measurement was used to measure the absolute reliability, the smallest detectable change was determined, and the coefficient of variation was calculated for each individual. Construct validity was determined by Pearson coefficient.

Results

Repeated measurement test–retest reliability was excellent according to Munro’s rating scale, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.99 (95%CI: 0.97–0.99), coefficient of variation of 2.6%, and standard error of measurement of 0.4 N. Single measurement test–retest reliability was high to excellent with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.94 (95%CI: 0.86–0.97), coefficient of variation of 4.1%, and standard error of measurement of 1.4 N. Smallest detectable change increased from 1.8 N (repeated measurement) to 3.3 N (single measurement). Inter-day reliability intraclass correlation coefficients exceeded 0.93. High construct validity was indicated by a convergent relationship with grip strength (r = 0.85, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The novel dynamometer provides excellent reliability and construct validity and supports an objective diagnosis of finger limitations by quantifying the flexion force magnitude. Traumatic injuries and follow-up of rehabilitative treatment can be monitored more precisely.
The developing athlete's heart: a cohort study in young athletes transitioning through adolescence
Authors: Bjerring Anders W , Landgraff Hege EW , Stokke Thomas M , Murbræch Klaus , Leirstein Svein , Aaeng Anette , Brun Henrik , Haugaa Kristina H , Hallén Jostein , Edvardsen Thor , Sarvari Sebastian I
Published: July 2019

Background

Athlete's heart is a term used to describe physiological changes in the hearts of athletes, but its early development has not been described in longitudinal studies. This study aims to improve our understanding of the effects of endurance training on the developing heart.

Methods

Cardiac morphology and function in 48 cross-country skiers were assessed at age 12 years (12.1 ± 0.2 years) and then again at age 15 years (15.3 ± 0.3 years). Echocardiography was performed in all subjects including two-dimensional speckle-tracking strain echocardiography and three-dimensional echocardiography. All participants underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing at both ages 12 and 15 years to assess maximal oxygen uptake and exercise capacity.

Results

Thirty-one (65%) were still active endurance athletes at age 15 years and 17 (35%) were not. The active endurance athletes had greater indexed maximal oxygen uptake (62 ± 8 vs. 57 ± 6 mL/kg/min, P < 0.05) at follow-up. There were no differences in cardiac morphology at baseline. At follow-up the active endurance athletes had greater three-dimensional indexed left ventricular end-diastolic (84 ± 11 mL/m2 vs. 79 ± 10 mL/m2, P < 0.05) and end-systolic volumes (36 ± 6 mL/m2 vs. 32 ± 3 mL/m2, P < 0.05). Relative wall thickness fell in the active endurance athletes, but not in those who had quit (–0.05 ΔmL/m2 vs. 0.00 mL/m2, P = 0.01). Four active endurance athletes had relative wall thickness above the upper reference values at baseline; all had normalised at follow-up.

Conclusion

After an initial concentric remodelling in the pre-adolescent athletes, those who continued their endurance training developed eccentric changes with chamber dilatation and little change in wall thickness. Those who ceased endurance training maintained a comparable wall thickness, but did not develop chamber dilatation.
Unpacking the Theory of African American Offending: A Qualitative Exploration of Racial Socialization Processes and Their Effects on African American Male College Students
Authors: Said Iman , Feldmeyer Ben
Published: July 2019

In 2011, Dr. James Unnever and Dr. Shaun Gabbidon introduced a Theory of African American Offending, which posits that African American offending is motivated in part by common experiences of racism. They argue that these experiences contribute to a shared worldview that includes both an accumulation of bad feelings toward pro-social institutions and legal cynicism toward the justice system, leading to decreased social bonds and a greater predilection toward delinquency. They also suggest that racial socialization can help to mitigate these effects of racism. Previous studies have found support for this idea, but few have examined the mechanisms by which racial socialization takes place. The current study uses qualitative interviews to explore the racial socialization process among a sample of Black male college students in a Midwestern public university. The findings reveal that racial socialization processes vary widely among male college students in terms of content (police contact, dating, safety), sources (parents, grandparents, peers, and other adult role models), timing, and the effect on social bonds to White-dominated institutions. Implications of the findings for the research on race, racial socialization, social problems, and criminological theory are presented and discussed.
Fostering Teacher–Parent Communication: Line Plays a Significant Role in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Luc Chia-Shin
Published: July 2019

The convenience and pervasiveness of smartphones have created an environment where teacher–parent communication can be easily fostered through mobile apps. The current study aims to explore the role of instant messaging apps in teacher–parent communication. Social capital and the uses and gratifications theory were used to develop a theoretical model. The survey collected 429 valid questionnaires. The findings show that both bonding and bridging capital have a positive influence on constructs including sociability, entertainment, communicatory utility, and emotion. Entertainment, communicatory utility, and emotion have a positive influence on the willingness to use Line as a teacher–parent communication tool. The implications for the extension of communication theory and practice are discussed in the current study.
Hiring Agents’ Beliefs: A Barrier to Employment of Autistics
Authors: Mai Angela Marie
Published: July 2019

Capable, qualified, and working-age (18-65) autistic adults experienced an 83% unemployment rate in the United States in 2017 resulting in extreme poverty and severely decreased quality of life. Research dating from 1957 to 2016 inferred hiring agents’ beliefs were the cause. In this multiple regression study, the nature of the relationship between hiring agents’ beliefs and their selection of qualified autistic candidates was explored through Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior to determine what hiring agent’s beliefs, if any, influence the selection of qualified autistic candidates to fill open positions. I used the Hiring Agent Survey Regarding Selection of Qualified Autistic Candidates to anonymously gather data from hiring agents throughout the contiguous United States. Known values of the independent variable, the beliefs influencing hiring agents, were summed and clustered against the TPB-predicted, percentage-based, continuous-level dependent variable, which was hiring agents’ selection of qualified autistic candidates. This statistically significant regression analysis, F(45, 73) = 36.067, p < .001, adj. R2 = .930, predicted the degree to which each control, normative, and behavioral belief influenced hiring agents’ selection. Hiring agents’ desire for mandated comprehensive organizational diversity, along with their negative stereotypical associations and fear of embarrassment, signify a need for substantive policy and strategic interventions. Results of such aggressive diversity initiatives could considerably improve the nation’s socioeconomic health and substantively increase autistics’ quality of life.
Development and evaluation of a minimally aggressive method of patellofemoral osteoarthritis surgical treatment
Authors: Akilzhanov Kenes R , Zhunusov Ersin T , Asylkhanov Kanat T , Smakov Sovetkhan B , Zhanaspayev Marat A
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of developed minimally invasive operation such as the partial lateral facetectomy (PLFE) with patella thickness resection in patients with lateral patellofemoral (PF) osteoarthritis on short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes.

Methods:

This is a prospective study of 27 knees in 27 patients (18 females and 9 males, mean aged at surgery 59.1-year old) whom a PLFE with patella thickness resection using developed minimally invasive method was performed. Data of preoperative and postoperative questionnaires, physical examinations, and radiographs were analyzed. The minimum follow-up was 12 months (mean, 24.1 months; range, 12–36 months).

Results:

The subjective outcomes included the anterior pain relief assessed by scores using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index score (scores improved considerably by 2.34 points with respect to pain and by 1.63 points with respect to function), visual analog scale, and Knee Society Score (that improved in 78% of the knees). The majority of these patients experienced improvement in their PF symptoms. The PF index decreased considerably after surgery. The mean patellar width and thickness were decreased after surgery, maintaining a width/thickness ratio of 1.8:1.0 after surgery.

Conclusion:

PLFE with patella thickness resection aiming to decrease the high pressure in the lateral facet and improving congruence of the patella confirmed frequent pain relief. This surgical procedure is minimally invasive, relatively simple, and effective in selected patients and can be a valid early alternative to more complex operations. Level of Evidence: Level IV Therapeutic study.
The politics of development and humanitarianism in EU externalization: Managing migration in Ukraine
Authors: Crane Austin
Published: July 2019

This paper draws from research in Ukraine to analyze how development and humanitarianism are integral to spatial projects of migration management. As a country of origin, transit and destination for migrants that now borders four EU member countries, Ukraine’s integration with the EU has been made conditional upon its willingness to cooperate in managing migration. The EU has externalized significant aspects of migration and border management to Ukraine, making investments in the country’s capacity to selectively control—even detain—cross-border migration in line with EU security priorities. Discourses and practices of development are central to the installation, justification and management of EU externalization in transit areas of migration. In concert, the spatial practices of humanitarian institutions maintain migrants’ survival while also managing their exclusion from EU common space. This paper discusses the spatial politics of development and humanitarianism in EU externalization by addressing: (1) the humanitarian management of migrant detention in Ukraine; (2) the uses of development through the EU’s Neighbourhood Policy to outsource migration management to Ukraine; and (3) the roles of development and humanitarian discourses, programs and institutions in implementing the externalization of migration management to Ukraine.
Assessing states: Water service delivery and evolving state–society relations in Accra, Ghana and Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Harris Leila M
Published: July 2019

This paper analyzes water services in relation to trust in government, with insights for broader state–society relations. The work is based on a multi-year and multi-sited case study of underserved areas of Cape Town, South Africa and Accra, Ghana. The analysis reveals that water quality and satisfaction are statistically linked to trust in government in South Africa, but not in Ghana. As well, while indicators of water access and quality appear to be very good in South Africa, there is nonetheless deep contestation and ongoing dis-enfranchisement. For Ghana, water access and quality are important for people’s daily lives, but are less strongly connected to senses of governmental responsibility—although for both countries there is a strong sense that government should be “doing more.” Features of history and context are emphasized in the Discussion and Conclusion sections to understand key differences between the sites and other results.
Linear Discriminant Analysis for Prediction of Group Membership: A User-Friendly Primer
Authors: Boedeker Peter , Kearns Nathan T.
Published: July 2019

In psychology, researchers are often interested in the predictive classification of individuals. Various models exist for such a purpose, but which model is considered a best practice is conditional on attributes of the data. Under certain conditions, linear discriminant analysis (LDA) has been shown to perform better than other predictive methods, such as logistic regression, multinomial logistic regression, random forests, support-vector machines, and the K-nearest neighbor algorithm. The purpose of this Tutorial is to provide researchers who already have a basic level of statistical training with a general overview of LDA and an example of its implementation and interpretation. Decisions that must be made when conducting an LDA (e.g., prior specification, choice of cross-validation procedures) and methods of evaluating case classification (posterior probability, typicality probability) and overall classification (hit rate, Huberty’s I index) are discussed. LDA for prediction is described from a modern Bayesian perspective, as opposed to its original derivation. A step-by-step example of implementing and interpreting LDA results is provided. All analyses were conducted in R, and the script is provided; the data are available online.
Low-dose radiation (4 Gy) with/without concurrent chemotherapy is highly effective for relapsed, refractory mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Ning Matthew S. , Pinnix Chelsea C. , Chapman Bhavana V. , Gunther Jillian R. , Milgrom Sarah A. , Khoury Joseph D. , Jain Preetesh , Chen Wendy Y. , Oriabure Onyeka N. , Badillo Maria R. , Wang L. Michael , Dabaja Bouthaina S.
Published: July 2019

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) generally exhibits an aggressive disease course with poor outcomes. Despite inherent radiosensitivity, radiation therapy (RT) is not commonly used for MCL. This study assesses the role of low-dose RT (LDRT) with concurrent chemotherapy in relapsed, multiply refractory MCL. From 2014 through 2018, 19 patients with relapsed, refractory MCL had 98 sites treated with 4 Gy. Median follow-up from initial LDRT was 15.4 months. Patients had received a median 7 courses of chemotherapy since diagnosis, and 58% were ibrutinib-refractory. Of the 98 sites, 76% were refractory to ongoing chemotherapy, and LDRT was delivered with concurrent chemotherapy for 76%. The complete response (CR) rate was 81% at a median 2.7 months post-LDRT. There were no differences in CR despite ibrutinib-refractory disease, prior chemotherapy courses (>5), or tumor size (>3 cm). There were no RT-related toxicities. Overall survival at 1 year following initial LDRT was 90%, and 1-year progression-free survival following last course was 55%. In summary, LDRT is effective for relapsed, multiply refractory MCL, and may be safely delivered with chemotherapy, to multiple sites, and repeatedly without issue. By treating active sites of disease, LDRT can provide durable local control, help achieve remission, and potentially bridge patients to subsequent novel therapies.
Association Between Vitamin D, Frailty, and Progression of Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older Women
Authors: Buchebner David , Bartosch Patrik , Malmgren Linnea , McGuigan Fiona E , Gerdhem Paul , Akesson Kristina E
Published: July 2019

Context

Vitamin D (25OHD) is involved in many physiological functions that decline with age, contributing to frailty and increased risk for negative health outcomes. Whether 25OHD is a long-term risk marker for frailty over a longer time and whether it is consistent with advancing age is unclear.

Objective

To investigate the association between 25OHD and frailty in older women followed for 10 years.

Design and Setting

Prospective, population-based, cohort study in Malmö, Sweden.

Participants

Community-dwelling women, age 75 years (N = 1044) with reassessments at ages 80 (n = 715) and 85 (n = 382) years.

Methods

Frailty was quantified using a 10-variable frailty index. Women were categorized as 25OHD insufficient (<50 nmol/L) or sufficient (≥50 nmol/L).

Results

At ages 75 and 80 years, women with insufficient 25OHD were frailer than women with sufficient 25OHD (0.23 vs 0.18, P < 0.001; and 0.32 vs 0.25, P = 0.001, respectively). At age 80 years, 25OHD insufficiency was associated with subsequent frailty 5 years later (0.41 vs 0.32; P = 0.011). Accelerated progression of frailty was not associated with lower 25OHD levels, and 25OHD level >75 nmol/L was not additionally beneficial with regard to frailty. No association between 25OHD and frailty was observed at age 85 years. Within the frailty index, variables associated with 25OHD were related to muscle strength and function.

Conclusion

In this study, 25OHD insufficiency was associated with increased frailty in all but the oldest old. This study supports the value of maintaining sufficient 25OHD levels for healthy aging.
Quantitative Differences in TGF-β Family Members Measured in Small Antral Follicle Fluids From Women With or Without PCO
Authors: Kristensen Stine Gry , Kumar Ajay , Kalra Bhanu , Pors Susanne Elisabeth , Bøtkjær Jane Alrø , Mamsen Linn Salto , Colmorn Lotte Berdiin , Fedder Jens , Ernst Erik , Owens Lisa Ann , Hardy Kate , Franks Stephen , Andersen Claus Yding
Published: July 2019

Context

Members of the TGF-β family have been implicated in aberrant follicle development in women with polycystic ovaries (PCO).

Objective

Are there quantitative differences in the concentrations of TGF-β family members in fluid from human small antral follicles (hSAFs) in women with or without PCO?

Design and Setting

Follicle fluids (FFs) were collected from 4- to 11-mm hSAFs obtained from women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation.

Patients

FFs from 16 women with PCO (FF = 93) and 33 women without PCO (FF = 92).

Main Outcome Measures

Intrafollicular concentrations of growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF9); anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH); inhibin-A and inhibin-B; total inhibin; activin-A, activin-B, and activin-AB; follistatin; follistatin-like-3; estradiol; and testosterone.

Results

Activin-B concentrations were reported in hSAFs, and concentrations were 10 times higher than activin-A and activin-AB concentrations. Activin-B showed significant associations with other growth factors. Concentrations of inhibin-A and inhibin-B were significantly lower in FFs from women with PCO, especially in hSAFs <8 mm in diameter. AMH concentrations did not differ between the groups in hSAFs <8 mm; however, AMH remained high in hSAFs >8 mm in women with PCO but decreased in women without PCO. Estradiol was significantly lower in FFs from women with PCO and showed significant associations with AMH. Concentrations of GDF9 showed significantly higher concentrations in PCO FFs of follicles >6 mm.

Conclusions

Altered concentrations of TGF-β family members in hSAFs from women with PCO highlight altered growth factor signaling as a potential mechanism for follicle growth arrest.
PIP degron-stabilized Dacapo/p21Cip1 and mutations inagoact in an anti- versus pro-proliferative manner, yet both trigger an increase in Cyclin E levels
Authors: Bivik Stadler Caroline , Arefin Badrul , Ekman Helen , Thor Stefan
Published: July 2019

During cell cycle progression, the activity of the CycE-Cdk2 complex gates S-phase entry. CycE-Cdk2 is inhibited by CDK inhibitors (CKIs) of the Cip/Kip family, which include the human p21Cip1 and Drosophila Dacapo (Dap) proteins. Both the CycE and Cip/Kip family proteins are under elaborate control via protein degradation, mediated by the Cullin-RING ligase (CRL) family of ubiquitin ligase complexes. The CRL complex SCFFbxw7/Ago targets phosphorylated CycE, whereas p21Cip1 and Dap are targeted by the CRL4Cdt2 complex, binding to the PIP degron. The role of CRL-mediated degradation of CycE and Cip/Kip proteins during CNS development is not well understood. Here, we analyse the role of ago (Fbxw7)-mediated CycE degradation, and of Dap and p21Cip1 degradation during Drosophila CNS development. We find that ago mutants display over-proliferation, accompanied by elevated CycE expression levels. By contrast, expression of PIP degron mutant Dap and p21Cip1 transgenes inhibit proliferation. However, surprisingly, this is also accompanied by elevated CycE levels. Hence, ago mutation and PIP degron Cip/Kip transgenic expression trigger opposite effects on proliferation, but similar effects on CycE levels.
Spect perfusion imaging versus CT for predicting radiation injury to normal lung in lung cancer patients
Authors: Weller Alex , Dunlop Alex , Oxer Adam , Gunapala Ranga , Murray Iain , Gray Matthew J , Flux Glenn D , deSouza Nandita M , Ahmed Merina
Published: July 2019

Objectives:

In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, to establish whether the fractional volumes of irradiated anatomic or perfused lung differed between those with and without deteriorating lung function or radiation associated lung injury (RALI).

Methods:

48 patients undergoing radical radiotherapy for NSCLC had a radiotherapy-planning CT scan and single photon emission CT lung perfusion imaging (99mTc-labelled macroaggregate albumin). CT defined the anatomic and the single photon emission CT scan (co-registered with CT) identified the perfused (threshold 20 % of maximum) lung volumes. Fractional volumes of anatomic and perfused lung receiving more than 5, 10, 13, 20, 30, 40, 50 Gy were compared between patients with deteriorating (>median decline) vs stable (<median decline) forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and between those with and without RALI (assessed by Common Toxic Criteria for Adverse Events) radiation pneumonitis and pulmonary fibrosis scores.

Results:

Fractional volumes of anatomic and perfused lung receiving more than 10, 13 and 20 Gy were significantly higher in patients with deteriorating vs stable FEV1 ( p = 0.005, 0.005 and 0.025 respectively) but did not differ for higher doses of radiation (>30, 40, 50 Gy). Fractional volumes of anatomic and perfused lung receiving > 10 Gy best predicted decline in FEV1 (Area under receiver operating characteristic curve (Az = 0.77 and 0.76 respectively); sensitivity/specificity 75%/81 and 80%/71%) for a 32.7% anatomic and 33.5% perfused volume cut-off. Irradiating an anatomic fractional volume of 4.7% to > 50 Gy had a sensitivity/specificity of 83%/89 % for indicating RALI (Az = 0.83).

Conclusion:

A 10–20 Gy radiation dose to anatomic or perfused lung results in decline in FEV1. A fractional anatomic volume of >5% receiving >50 Gy influences development of RALI.

Advances in knowledge:

Extent of low-dose radiation to normal lung influences functional respiratory decline.