bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Normalization of reduced functional connectivity after revascularization of asymptomatic carotid stenosis
Authors: Quandt Fanny , Fischer Felix , Schröder Julian , Heinze Marlene , Kessner Simon S , Malherbe Caroline , Schulz Robert , Cheng Bastian , Fiehler Jens , Gerloff Christian , Thomalla Götz
Published: September 2019

Internal carotid artery stenosis is a risk factor for ischemic stroke. Even in the absence of visible structural brain changes, patients with asymptomatic stenosis are prone to cognitive impairment. On a neuronal level, it was suggested that stenosis may lead to disturbed functional brain connectivity. If so, carotid revascularization should have an effect on hypothesized brain network disturbances. We studied functional connectivity in a motor network by resting-state electroencephalography in 12 patients with high grade asymptomatic carotid stenosis before and after interventional or surgical revascularization as compared to 23 controls. In patients with stenosis, functional connectivity of neural oscillations was significantly decreased prior and improved returning to normal connectivity after revascularization. In a subgroup of patients, also studied by contrast perfusion magnetic resonance imaging, reduced connectivity was associated with decreased regional brain perfusion reflected by increased mean transit time in the middle cerebral artery borderzone. Cognitive testing revealed only minor differences between patients and controls. In summary, we identified oscillatory connectivity changes in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis correlating with regional hypoperfusion, which both normalized after revascularization. Hence, electrophysiological changes might be a reversible precursor preceding macroscopic structural brain damage and behavioral impairment in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis.
Inhibition of histone deacetylase 3 by MiR-494 alleviates neuronal loss and improves neurological recovery in experimental stroke
Authors: Zhao Haiping , Li Guangwen , Zhang Sijia , Li Fangfang , Wang Rongliang , Tao Zhen , Ma Qingfeng , Han Ziping , Yan Feng , Fan Junfen , Li Lingzhi , Ji Xunming , Luo Yumin
Published: September 2019

HDAC3 is an essential negative regulator of neuronal plasticity and memory formation. Although a chemical inhibitor has been invented, little is known about its endogenous modulators. We explored whether miR-494 affects HDAC3-mediated neuronal injury following acute ischemic stroke. A substantial increase in plasma miR-494 was detected in AIS patients and was positively associated with the mRS at one year after symptom onset. The miR-494 levels were transiently increased in the infarcted brain tissue of mice. In contrast, miR-494 levels were reduced in neurons but increased in the medium after OGD. Intracerebroventricular injection of miR-494 agomir reduced neuronal apoptosis and infarct volume at the acute stage of MCAO, promoted axonal plasticity and long-term outcomes at the recovery stage, suppressed neuronal ataxin-3 and HDAC3 expression and increased acetyl-H3K9 levels in the ipsilateral hemisphere. In vitro studies confirmed that miR-494 posttranslationally inhibited HDAC3 in neurons and prevented OGD-induced neuronal axonal injury. The HDAC3 inhibitor increased acetyl-H3K9 levels and reversed miR-494 antagomir-aggravated acute cerebral ischemic injury, as well as brain atrophy and long-term functional recovery. These results suggest that miR-494 may serve as a predictive biomarker of functional outcomes in AIS patients and a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of ischemic stroke.
Reproducibility of measurements with a semi-automatic software package for the evaluation of rectal cancer
Authors: Hörberg Lisa , Roth Daniel , Leander Peter , Månsson Sven , Fält Tobias , Ekberg Olle , Zackrisson Sophia
Published: September 2019

Background

Staging of rectal cancer with MRI has major impact on treatment choice and may be of importance in new cancer management strategies such as “wait-and-see” policy.

Purpose

To assess the reproducibility of a software package recently developed at our department to measure volumes, apparent diffusion coefficient, and the skewness of apparent diffusion coefficient in lymph nodes and tumors in rectal cancer patients before and after chemoradiation treatment.

Material and Methods

This study included 20 consecutive patients with biopsy-verified rectal cancer, in whom MRI staging had been performed both before and after chemoradiation treatment. The diffusion-weighted images were transferred to the software. The volume, apparent diffusion coefficient, and skewness were determined for 93 lymph nodes and 40 tumors. The volumes were compared with manual measurements of the volume of the same lymph nodes and tumors.

Results

The agreement in semi-automatic measurements of lymph nodes was very good (ICC = 0.99), and in tumors good (ICC = 0.88). The agreement in manual measurements of lymph nodes was very good (ICC = 0.95) when all lymph nodes were included, but low (ICC = 0.52) if three outliers were excluded. Bland–Altman plots showed clear agreement between manual and semi-automatic measurements in the lymph nodes, but not in measurements of tumors. The values of apparent diffusion coefficient and skewness in tumors differed before and after treatment but did not differ in lymph nodes as a group.

Conclusion

The software package showed a high degree of reproducibility in measurements on lymph nodes but requires further development to improve the reproducibility of tumor measurements.
Diagnostic performance of ankle ultrasound for diagnosing anterior talofibular and calcaneofibular ligament injuries: a meta-analysis
Authors: Seok Hosik , Lee Sun Hwa , Yun Seong Jong
Published: September 2019

Background

Ankle ultrasound imaging could be an option with higher priority due to its lack of radiation, and cost- and time-effectiveness. However, previous studies regarding anterior tibiofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament injuries have shown varied results.

Purpose

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of ankle ultrasound for anterior tibiofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament injuries.

Material and Methods

PubMed and EMBASE databases were searched for diagnostic accuracy studies that used ultrasound for diagnosing anterior tibiofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament injuries. Bivariate and hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic modeling were used to evaluate diagnostic performance. Subgroup analysis was performed using studies according to severity of the injury (complete and partial anterior tibiofibular ligament tear). We performed meta-regression analyses for heterogeneity exploration.

Results

Ten articles involving a total of 380 patients were included. For anterior tibiofibular ligament injury, the summary sensitivity, summary specificity, and area under the hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were 0.99, 0.92, and 0.99, respectively. For calcaneofibular ligament injury, the summary sensitivity, summary specificity, and AUC were 0.95, 0.99, and 0.95, respectively. In subgroup analysis, for complete anterior tibiofibular ligament tear, the summary sensitivity, summary specificity, and AUC were 0.96, 0.82, and 0.96, respectively. For partial anterior tibiofibular ligament tear, the summary sensitivity, summary specificity, and AUC were 0.90, 0.82, and 0.93, respectively. Among the various potential covariates, proportion of anterior tibiofibular ligament tear, ultrasound interpreter, and reference standard were associated with specificity heterogeneity.

Conclusion

Ankle ultrasound demonstrates high diagnostic performance in the diagnosis of anterior tibiofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament injuries. We recommend ultrasound performed by a musculoskeletal radiologist as a first-line diagnostic tool to diagnose anterior tibiofibular ligament and calcaneofibular ligament injuries.
Incidence and pattern of epidural spread during lumbar facet joint injection: a prospective study
Authors: Yoo Bo Reum , Lee Eugene , Lee Joon Woo , Kang Yusuhn , Ahn Joong Mo , Kang Heung Sik
Published: September 2019

Background

In clinical practice, we have often observed contrast material spreading into the epidural space during lumbar facet joint injection. However, the exact incidence of epidural spread and contrast pattern have not been reported.

Purpose

To evaluate the incidence and pattern of epidural spread in lumbar facet joint injection.

Material and Methods

One hundred consecutive patients (38 men, 62 women; mean age 68 years; age range 20–88 years) who underwent lumbar facet joint injection at two sites between April 2014 and June 2014 were investigated in this prospective study. Initial oblique, final anteroposterior, and lateral fluoroscopic images were obtained and evaluated for the presence of epidural spread and its contrast pattern (based on direction and extent) with the consensus of three radiologists. The relationship between epidural spread and its potential predictors was analyzed using the chi-squared test, Fisher’s exact test, and the t-test.

Results

The incidence of epidural spread during lumbar facet joint injection was 64.6% (n=64) in 99 patients and 49.5% (n=95) in 192 procedures; ventral spread occurred in 29.2% and foraminal spread in 18.8%. When epidural spread occurred, the most commonly identified distributions were unilateral (73.7%), dorsal (92.6%), and cephalad (92.6%). Epidural spread increased significantly in the caudocephalic direction ( P < 0.0001), in men (relative risk [RR]=1.478), in the adjacency of posterior fusion level (RR=1.545), in patients with spondylolisthesis (RR=1.454), and when there was no other leakage (RR=0.334).

Conclusion

Epidural spread occurred at about half the number of lumbar facet joint injections and showed a contrast pattern similar to that seen with the interlaminar approach.
Pitfalls of delaying the diagnosis of hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Major Tamás , Csobay-Novák Csaba , Gindele Réka , Szabó Zsuzsanna , Bora László , Jóni Natália , Rácz Tamás , Karosi Tamás , Bereczky Zsuzsanna
Published: September 2019

Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT; Osler–Weber–Rendu disease) is an autosomal dominant vascular disease characterized by nosebleeds, mucocutaneous telangiectases, visceral arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and a first-degree relative with HHT. Diagnosis is definite if three or four criteria are present. This case report describes a 19-year-old male with incidentally detected polycythaemia and an associated soft-tissue opacity over the left lower lobe on his frontal chest radiogram. He had experienced dyspnoea on exertion since infancy and clubbing at physical examination. Polycythaemia vera, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep apnoea and cyanotic congenital heart disease were excluded. Chest computed tomography (CT) was initially refused by the patient, but 3 years later he presented with severe epistaxis. Considering the unvarying soft tissue mass and erythrocytosis, an HHT-associated pulmonary AVM (PAVM) was eventually confirmed by chest CT. A pathogenic family-specific ENG c.817-2 A>C mutation was detected in the patient. The large PAVM was successfully treated using AMPLATZER™ vascular plug embolization. A combination of the multisystemic nature of his symptoms, the age-related penetrance of HHT symptoms and insufficient patient compliance delayed the diagnosis of HHT in this current case.
Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis cured with nephron-sparing surgery in a patient with clear cell renal cell carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Zhu Lunfeng , Deng Xiaolin , Lai Zhaohui , Xie Ning , Tan Wanlong
Published: September 2019

Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis (PLE) in association with clear cell renal cell carcinoma has never been reported in China. We herein describe a 54-year-old man with a 1-week history of headache and a 3-day history of psychiatric symptoms. Slight nuchal rigidity was found by physical examination. Imaging studies of the head were normal. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid antibody testing were both positive for N-methyl-D-aspartic acid antibodies. Subsequent contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a 5.2- × 4.2-cm left kidney mass with intense enhancement. Emergent laparoscopic nephron-sparing surgery was successfully performed. Immunohistochemistry revealed clear cell renal cell carcinoma. The patient’s status improved after the surgery, and he was discharged after 1 month of hospitalization. At the 6-month follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging showed no recurrence, and the patient was living independently. This case indicates the potential effect of nephron-sparing surgery in the treatment of PLE. Tumor screening should be performed early in patients with suspected PLE. Early surgical resection of the primary tumor can improve patients’ prognosis.
Popliteal artery occlusion concomitant with a tibial plateau fracture and posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fracture
Authors: Li Yi-Syuan , Lin Kai-Cheng , Chen Chun-Yu , Tarng Yih-Wen , Chang Wei-Ning
Published: September 2019

In acute trauma, posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury may occur concomitantly with a bony fracture and be easily overlooked. A popliteal artery injury associated with a tibial plateau fracture and PCL avulsion fracture is rare. Missed or delayed diagnosis of this condition leads to a high amputation rate. Therefore, close attention is required with this type of injury. The limb can be saved though early detection and immediate reconstruction of the injured artery, followed by fasciotomy. We report here a rare case of popliteal artery occlusion proximal to the surgical zone, which was diagnosed after fixation of a medial tibial plateau fracture and posterior cruciate avulsion injury. In dashboard injuries without knee dislocation, the arterial intima may be injured and become vulnerable, even with an initial ankle brachial index greater than 0.9. This can cause concomitant occlusion of the popliteal artery due to iatrogenic retraction during surgery. Therefore, a neurovascular examination should be repeated to prevent delayed-onset thrombosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of popliteal artery injury concomitant with a tibial plateau fracture and PCL avulsion owing to initial dashboard injury-related arterial intima injury, which can present with a normal ankle brachial index.
Clinical aspects and risk factors of lupus nephritis: a retrospective study of 156 adult patients
Authors: Yuan Fang , Wei Fenghua , Wang Junjie , You Yanwu
Published: September 2019

Objective

To analyze the clinical manifestations, laboratory indexes, disease activity, and pathological types of lupus nephritis (LN) in adult patients.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the clinical manifestations, laboratory indexes, and pathological classifications of 156 adult patients first diagnosed with LN between July 2013 and November 2017. Patients were categorized according to the following criteria: active or inactive LN, LN with or without renal damage, and mild or severe LN.

Results

Immunoglobulin G and A levels, 24-hour proteinuria, and anti-dsDNA, anti-Sm, and anti-ribosomal P protein antibody positivity rates were all significantly increased in patients with active LN compared with inactive LN. Anti-dsDNA antibody positivity and 24-hour proteinuria were significantly increased, whereas hemoglobin, serum albumin, and C3 and C4 levels were significantly decreased in patients with LN and renal damage compared with those without renal damage. Anti-dsDNA and anti-Sm antibody positivity rates and 24-hour proteinuria were significantly increased, while hemoglobin, serum albumin, C3 and C4 levels, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were significantly decreased in patients with severe LN compared with patients with mild LN.

Conclusions

LN can display various clinical manifestations, laboratory indexes, levels of disease activity, and pathological types in adult patients.
Prison Addiction Program and the Role of Integrative Treatment and Program Completion on Recidivism
Authors: Haviv Noam , Hasisi Badi
Published: September 2019

This study examines whether there is variability between the effects of three different drug rehabilitation programs operating in the Israeli Prison Service (IPS) on completers’ recidivism. By performing comparative analysis, this study attempts to address the problem of assessing the role of participants’ motivation. The study uses a rich administrative data obtained from the IPS system to develop a propensity score matching (PSM) approach where the treatment groups consist of only those who completed the programs, and the comparison groups consist of drug-addicted prisoners who have not taken part in any drug rehabilitation program. After matching, prisoners in the treatment and comparison groups are found to be similar on all known characteristics. Findings show that the only rehabilitation program that promised significant and positive outcomes for its completers was the more comprehensive one operating at Hermon Prison. Prisoners who completed the treatment were incarcerated and arrested less than their comparison group. The “golden strategy” for rehabilitating drug-using prisoners, then, will be twofold. The program should be based on the promising components of rehabilitation, that is, cognitive behavioral therapy, therapeutic community, long duration, intensity, and positive social climate. The program should also succeed in retaining its participants through completion.
Construction and Psychometric Properties of a Short Form of the Personal Experiences Checklist
Authors: Prinz Karoline , Costa Daniel , Chervonsky Elizabeth , Hunt Caroline
Published: September 2019

Peer victimization is a significant problem concerning young people. However, there are few brief measures that cover the key domains of victimization, including cyber victimization. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to construct and validate a short form version of the Personal Experiences Checklist (PECK) to be able to measure victimization efficiently and effectively. The PECK was originally developed to measure a young person’s experience of victimization and provides scores for four subscales (relational-verbal, cyber, physical, and victimization in relation to culture) as well as a total score. A sample of N = 1,040 school students from Grades 4 to 9 (mean age = 12.2 years) derived from two studies was used to construct and cross-validate the structure of a Personal Experiences Checklist Short Form (PECK-SF) using confirmatory factor analysis and item response theory analysis. Based on discriminative ability and consideration of item content, 14 items were selected to form the PECK-SF, which demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = .83). Given the small number of items, the use of subscales is not advised. However the PECK-SF total scale represents a potential alternative to the long form of the PECK and provides a brief and general index of victimization.
An Examination of Teachers’ Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy
Authors: Cruz Rebecca A. , Manchanda Sarah , Firestone Allison R. , Rodl Janelle E.
Published: September 2019

Culturally responsive teaching (CRT) is a set of practices designed to build on students’ cultural and linguistic backgrounds as teaching and learning occur. Although CRT can have positive effects on student outcomes, little research has examined teachers’ self-efficacy to implement CRT practices. Using the Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy (CRTSE) scale, the authors explore specific areas in which teachers feel self-efficacious in regard to implementing CRT practices and the factors that affect both preservice and practicing teachers’ self-efficacy in delivering CRT. Participants ( n = 245) reported feeling more confident in building personal relationships with students and building trust, but less confident in areas that involved specific cultural knowledge, such as being able to validate students in their native language and teaching students about their culture’s contributions to curricular topics. Results also showed that years of experience positively correlated with increased self-efficacy.
Do Expectant Mothers’ Breastfeeding Plans Influence Provider Prenatal Contraceptive Counseling?
Authors: Furman Lydia , Shaker Maria , Arora Kavita Shah
Published: September 2019

Background

Breastfeeding and optimal birth spacing are associated with improved maternal and infant health outcomes worldwide. Provision of contraceptive advice that is aligned with recommendations for breastfeeding has potential to maximize maternal and infant health. Although there is broad agreement regarding the breastfeeding compatibility of specific postpartum contraceptive methods, it is not known whether maternal breastfeeding intention influences prenatal provider contraceptive counseling.

Research aim

We aimed to determine if maternal feeding intention is considered by prenatal providers during contraceptive counseling.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional online author-created survey including all prenatal providers ( N = 40) at two academic safety-net institutions in Cleveland, Ohio. Of 100 obstetrics/gynecology faculty members, 40 (40%) completed the survey, which included multiple-choice questions. Nominal and ordinal survey results were reported with percentages and frequencies, and categorical variables were compared using the Fisher exact test.

Results

Participants appropriately promoted breastfeeding-compatible postplacental intrauterine device placement, even though maternal feeding intention was specifically considered by just 12 (30%). Endorsed barriers to contraception for breastfeeding mothers included provider medical worries, patient concerns, and colleague resistance. Postplacental levonorgestrel intrauterine devices were recommended for all mothers by 92.5% of participants ( n = 37). Recommendations regarding progestin-only and combined oral contraceptive pills were influenced by maternal breastfeeding versus formula-feeding intention.

Conclusion

Asking expectant women about their feeding intentions within each contraceptive discussion may create opportunities for shared decision making that can optimize perinatal outcomes for both mother and infant worldwide.
Grantmaking Foundations’ Asset Management, Payout Rates, and Longevity Under Changing Market Conditions: Results From a Monte Carlo Simulation Study
Authors: Afik Zvika , Benninga Simon , Katz Hagai
Published: September 2019

Today’s uncertain financial markets could affect foundations’ future grantmaking capacities. We review foundations’ financial decision-making patterns and their effect on foundations’ assets, longevity goals, and payouts. Using three fictional foundations with different longevity goals and grantmaking preferences, we demonstrate the delicate balance and tight nexus between asset management strategies, payout rates, and longevity. To do so, we perform stochastic Monte Carlo simulations of multiple foundation life cycles, conducted under diverse capital market scenarios. The findings suggest that foundations should (a) readjust their return expectations to today’s less favorable markets; (b) reduce their reliance on past portfolios’ investment returns or unique “success stories” in making decisions; (c) appreciate the strong interdependence between portfolio-mix, payout rates, and longevity; (d) consider effects of their particular mission/problem area on these parameters; and (e) use tailored projection analyses that simulate various investment strategies, payouts rates, and longevity to meet their grantmaking goals.
A study on sustainability assessment of welding processes
Authors: Jamal Jaber , Darras Basil , Kishawy Hossam
Published: September 2019

The concept of “sustainability” has recently risen to take the old concept of going “green” further. This article presents general methodologies for sustainability assessments. These were then adapted to measure and assess the sustainability of welding processes through building a complete framework, to determine the best welding process for a particular application. To apply this methodology, data about the welding processes would be collected and segregated into four categories: environmental impact, economic impact, social impact, and physical performance. The performance of each category would then be aggregated into a single sustainability score. To demonstrate the capability of this methodology, case studies of three different welding processes were performed. Friction stir welding obtained the highest overall sustainability score compared to gas tungsten arc welding and gas metal arc welding.
Sport as high culture in the USA
Authors: Stempel Carl
Published: September 2019

This study seeks to theoretically and empirically advance our understanding of sport and cultural capital in the USA by testing if social class patterns of four types of sport participation (fitness, competitive, attending elite sporting events, and participation in all three) fit Bourdieu’s theory of class cultural divisions. In addition to testing for the influence of vertical class divisions, it tests for divisions within the dominant classes, and builds on the existing literature through blending Bourdieusian and omnivore theory and incorporating Lamont’s focus on “moral capital.” Hypotheses for relationships between sport and other high culture practices are generated through an historical analysis of sport and neoliberalization from this modified Bourdieusian perspective. Findings generally support the theory. Future research should map changes in the class distribution of sport over time and incorporate class trajectory in analyses.
Substance use and borderline personality disorder: fostering hope in the face of complexity
Authors: Donald Fiona , Arunogiri Shalini , Lubman Dan I
Published: September 2019

Objective:

Impulsivity and emotional dysregulation are common characteristics of patients presenting with co-occurring borderline personality disorder (BPD) and substance use disorder (SUD). This article aims to provide an overview of the clinical approaches psychiatrists should consider when treating patients with these conditions.

Conclusions:

Co-occurring BPD and SUD can be effectively treated within a staged, transdiagnostic approach with an emphasis on the therapeutic alliance.
Undertaking a systematic review and meta-analysis for a scholarly project: an updated practical guide
Authors: Kisely Steve , Siskind Dan
Published: September 2019

Objectives:

This paper is a follow-up of a previous introduction to systematic reviews and presents a step-by-step approach updated in the light of developments in the field.

Conclusions:

We describe resources such as bibliographic software, electronic translation and programs to assist in article selection, as well as the need for prospective registration of a protocol with an appropriate register. Lastly, we suggest freeware for meta-analysis and basic techniques.
A profile of adolescents admitted to a private inpatient unit and mental health outcomes
Authors: Hayes Claire , Simmons Magenta , Palmer Victoria J , Hamilton Bridget , Simons Christine , Hopwood Malcolm
Published: September 2019

Objective:

To characterise adolescents admitted to a voluntary adolescent inpatient unit and investigate treatment outcomes.

Method:

A retrospective cohort design was employed. Health of the Nation Outcome Scales for Children and Adolescents (HoNOSCA) pre- and post-admission scores were collected, measuring global functioning. Demographic variables such as age, gender, primary diagnosis, comorbidity and length of stay (LOS) were analysed. Data were collected from May 2017 to April 2018. All adolescents admitted to the inpatient unit were included.

Results:

The majority of adolescents ( n = 72; HoNOSCA data available on n = 57) were 16 years of age (26%), female (82%) and with a primary diagnosis of a mood disorder (57%). Most adolescents improved at the time of discharge. Self-injury and emotional symptoms had greater reductions according to clinician and adolescent-self-ratings ( p < 0.01). Mean change (improvement) in HoNOSCA total score was 7.3 (SD 7.5) based on clinician ratings and 7.2 (SD 9.5) for adolescent-self-ratings. The mean LOS was 28 days (SD 15.8).

Conclusions:

The inpatient unit proved effective at meeting the needs of young people in terms of symptom stabilisation. Further research is needed to describe adolescent inpatient models of care, the operations and philosophies to better examine how these relate to treatment outcomes.
Pancreatic Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a cat
Authors: Rissi Daniel R. , Brown Cathy A. , Gendron Karine , Good Jennifer , Lane Selena , Schmiedt Chad W.
Published: September 2019

In contrast to pulmonary Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH), which is a proliferative disorder of Langerhans cells that affects the lungs and other organs of cats, LCH involving a single organ system has not been documented in cats, to our knowledge. Herein we describe a case of pancreatic LCH in a 9-y-old castrated male Domestic Shorthaired cat that was evaluated for possible renal transplantation. The cat was hypoglycemic, hyperinsulinemic, and azotemic. Ultrasound examination revealed a diffusely enlarged, normoechoic pancreas. The cat was euthanized because of severe renal azotemia and the possibility of pancreatic neoplasia. Grossly, the pancreas was enlarged, and both kidneys were pale white, firm, and had irregular capsular surfaces. Histologically, the pancreas was expanded with interlobular, intraparenchymal, and ductal clusters of round-to-polygonal cells admixed with fibrous connective tissue and scattered lymphocytes. Infiltrating cells had a moderate amount of eosinophilic cytoplasm, round-to-indented nuclei with finely stippled chromatin and 1 or 2 nucleoli, and were strongly immunoreactive for CD18, ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, and e-cadherin. The morphologic and immunohistochemical features of the pancreatic changes were consistent with single-system LCH.
The Effect of CYP2C19 and Nongenetic Factors on Clopidogrel Responsiveness in the MENA Region: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ali Zainab , Elewa Hazem
Published: September 2019

Clopidogrel is the cornerstone antiplatelet used in the treatment and prevention of thrombotic events. Some studies examined the effect of CYP2C19 polymorphism and nongenetic factors on clopidogrel response in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. However, the consistency among these studies is yet unknown. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of CYP2C19 genetic variants in MENA region and to evaluate the effect of these variants as well as the nongenetic factors on clopidogrel responsiveness. A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant articles. Only observational studies were included. A total of 20 studies in 8 different populations were included. The CYP2C19*2 variant is the most prevalent loss-of-function (LOF) allele in the MENA region (1.7%-35%). The frequency of CYP2C19*17 ranged from 5.3% to 26.9%. Of the 9 studies, 6 found an association between carriers of at least 1 LOF allele and clopidogrel resistance. Older age, high body mass index, females, and the use of calcium channel blockers were associated with clopidogrel resistance as well. Association between the CYP2C19*2 allele and clopidogrel resistance is common among MENA populations. Future studies should focus on having larger sample sizes to detect other minor variant alleles and their effect on bleeding and cardiovascular outcomes.
Risk Factors for Attrition From Pediatric Trauma-Focused Treatment
Authors: Wamser-Nanney Rachel
Published: September 2019

Rates of attrition from pediatric trauma-focused treatments are high, yet few studies have examined predictors of dropout. The aim of the study was to investigate whether higher levels of caregiver- and child-reported pretreatment difficulties predicted attrition from trauma-focused therapy. One hundred seventy-two children aged 6–18 ( M = 10.53, SD = 3.36; 64% female, 64% Black) and their caregivers were included in the study. Two operational definitions of attrition were utilized: (1) clinician-rated dropout and (2) whether the child received an adequate dose of treatment (i.e., 12 or more sessions). Rates of clinician-rated attrition were high (76.2%); however, 73.8% received an adequate dose. Despite expectations, higher levels of rule-breaking and aggressive behavior were related to clinician-rated dropout ( d = 0.59, .63, respectively) but were not significant predictors in a logistic regression model. Child-reported symptoms were unrelated to clinician-rated attrition. Higher levels of caregiver-reported anxiety/depression, somatic complaints, and trauma-related difficulties corresponded with adequate dose ( ds = 0.52–1.06). Yet only caregiver-reported sexual concerns predicted adequate dose in a regression model ( OR = 1.09). Caregiver- and child-reported symptoms may be unrelated to clinician-rated treatment completion and appear to play a small role in understanding whether the child received an adequate dose of treatment.
Congenital Epidermoid Cyst of the Liver: A Rare Entity Characterized by Antenatal Onset, Slow Postnatal Growth, and Consistent Histologic and Immunohistologic Features
Authors: Morrow Matthew K , Li Aofei , Perez-Atayde Antonio R , Vargas Sara O
Published: September 2019

Background

There are only 15 reported hepatic epidermoid cysts; they include patients presenting congenitally through adulthood, with varied speculations about pathogenesis. Aside from recently reported pancytokeratin staining, no other descriptions have included immunohistochemistry. Splenic epidermoid cysts were recently characterized as positive for HBME-1, p63, CEA, CK7 (luminal), and CK19. We interrogate 2 hepatic epidermoid cysts with a broad panel of immunohistochemistry, with the aim of elucidating histogenesis.

Methods

Archives were searched for “liver,” “hepatic,” and “cyst.” Hepatic cysts lined by squamous epithelium were included. Clinical records, macroscopic findings, and hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemically stained slides were reviewed.

Results

We identified 2 patients with epidermoid cysts of the liver, first detected on antenatal ultrasound. Both were females and asymptomatic; neither had other congenital abnormalities. Cysts enlarged slowly after birth. Resection was at ages 2 and 6 months, done to avoid potentially more difficult surgery in the future. Cysts were unilocular (4.8 cm) and multilocular (7.0 cm). Both were lined by stratified nonkeratinizing squamous to focally transitional-like epithelium and surrounded by paucicellular fibrous stroma. In the multilocular cyst, hepatocytes and fibrous stroma populated septa. Epithelium was positive for HBME-1, p63, CK19, CEA, Cam5.2, and CK7, negative for EMA, D2-40, WT-1, calretinin, and Ca19-9. Cytogenetic analysis of one showed a normal female karyotype. During the study period, 22 other pediatric liver cysts were diagnosed.

Conclusion

Hepatic epidermoid cyst is a distinct entity, rare but nevertheless constituting 8% of pediatric hepatic cysts at our institution. It is characterized by intrauterine onset and growth roughly commensurate with that of the fetus/infant; it is apparently unsyndromic. It may be unilocular or multilocular. It stains for an array of epithelial markers as well as HBME-1. Strong immunohistochemical overlap with splenic epidermoid cyst points to a shared pathogenesis and detracts from hypotheses that hepatic epidermoid cysts derive from hepatic elements.
How Are We Testing Interactions in Latent Variable Models? Surging Forward or Fighting Shy?
Authors: Cortina Jose M. , Markell-Goldstein Hannah M. , Green Jennifer P. , Chang Yingyi
Published: September 2019

Latent variable models and interaction effects have both been common in the organizational sciences for some time. Methods for incorporating interactions into latent variable models have existed since at least Kenny and Judd, and a great many articles and books have developed these methods further. In the present article, we present an empirical review of the methods that organizational science investigators use to test their interaction hypotheses. We show that it is very common for investigators to use fully latent methods to test additive portions of their models, but to abandon such methods when testing the multiplicative portions of their models. By contrast, investigators whose models do not contain interactions tend to stick with fully latent methods throughout. As there is little rational basis for this pattern, it is likely due to continued discomfort regarding the proper application of existing fully latent methods. Thus, we end by offering R code that implements some of the more sophisticated fully latent approaches, and by offering a sequence of decisions that investigators can follow in order to choose the best analytic approach.
Enhancing students’ English proficiency by co-teaching between native and non-native teachers in an EFL context
Authors: Rao Zhenhui , Yu Huijun
Published: September 2019

This study examines the effects of co-teaching between native and non-native English teachers on English as a foreign language (EFL) students’ English proficiency in China, and then explores the students’ perceptions of the collaborative form of teaching. Based on the co-teaching schemes created by the previous researchers, this experiment adopted three co-teaching models: (1) one teaching/one assisting model, (2) team teaching model, and (3) station teaching model. By comparing the effects of co-teaching with those of traditional teaching, the study found that the students who were co-taught by a native and a non-native English teacher made more gains in English proficiency than those who were taught by one teacher alone. The findings from the attitudinal survey indicate that the students generally held a positive attitude towards co-teaching and that they attributed the success of this experiment to three benefits in co-teaching: ideal linguistic environment, complementary teaching behaviors, and favorable cultural atmosphere.
Visual impact assessment of the Istanbul Land-wall
Authors: Ögçe Hüseyin , Müderrisoğlu Haldun , Uzun Serir
Published: September 2019

Visual impact assessment studies are reasonably substantial to understand an environment which has different features. The aim of this study is to evaluate the visual impact of the Istanbul Land-wall and contribute to future design/planning stages. For this purpose, the study area was separated into four different spatial usages which are recreational, transportation, agricultural and neglected places. Twenty-four different photographs were taken and a survey was conducted upon an expert and a public sample group. The public survey included four parameters: well-kept, exciting, safety and beautiful scenery. The expert survey also involved four parameters which were coherence, imageability, stewardship and historicity. One-way ANOVA test was conducted to reveal sample groups’ effect on the preferences. The results showed that the average scores of photographs evaluated by public and experts were 11.07 and 9.80 scores respectively. In the public survey, the photograph, has the lowest scores for all parameters, was Photo-11 (P11). Experts’ result shows particularly that historicity is lower than the others although the area is a historical region. Specifically, neglected places obtained lower scores than the other spatial types. Consequently, the Istanbul Land-wall does not have adequate visual quality regarding the selected parameters.
Numerical investigation of the lower airway exposure to indoor particulate contaminants
Authors: Hvelplund Malthe H. , Liu Li , Frandsen Kirstine M. , Qian Hua , Nielsen Peter V. , Dai Yuan , Wen Leitao , Zhang Yingqi
Published: September 2019

Inhalation exposure to indoor particulate contaminants contributes as one of the leading threats to public health. Most existing airway morphometry models are either theoretical or semi-empirical; these are developed for predicting deposition fractions for an averaged general population subgroup. It is difficult to customize a fast and accurate prediction on individual basis. This study aims to analyse the regional particle deposition along an anatomically correct airway model, which is developed from a healthy volunteer’s computer tomography images. Computational fluid dynamics simulation results show that the majority of particles are deposited in the bronchi. Accumulation particles (0.1–2.0 μm) have the smallest deposition fraction in the lower airways. An increase in the aerodynamic diameter >2.0 μm of the particles elevated the deposition fraction. These findings inspire future investigations into control methods that minimize the negative health impact of indoor emissions.
Incisional hernia repair in women of childbearing age: A nationwide propensity-score matched study
Authors: Oma E. , Jensen K. K. , Jorgensen L. N. , Bisgaard T.
Published: September 2019

Background & Aims:

Although incisional hernia repair in women of childbearing age is not rare, hernia disease in this group of patients is sparsely documented. The aim of this study was to examine long-term clinical results after incisional hernia repair in women of childbearing age.

Material and methods:

This nationwide cohort study examined incisional hernia repair from 2007 to 2013 in women of childbearing age, registered prospectively in the Danish Ventral Hernia Database. All women with a subsequent pregnancy were included, and a 1:3 propensity-score matched group of women with an incisional hernia repair without a subsequent pregnancy. A prospective follow-up was conducted, including a validated questionnaire. The primary outcome was recurrence, and the secondary outcome was chronic pain from the operated site.

Results:

In total, 124 (70.5%) women responded, 47 and 77 women with and without a subsequent pregnancy, respectively. The 5-year cumulative incidence of recurrence was 41.0% (95% confidence interval 32.0%–49.9%). After adjustment for potential confounders, subsequent pregnancy was independently associated with recurrence (hazard ratio 1.83, 95% confidence interval 1.02–3.29, p = 0.044). Twenty-six (21.0%) women reported chronic pain (moderate, n = 21; severe, n = 5) with no difference between women with and without a subsequent pregnancy. Hernia recurrence, higher body mass index, and smoking were associated with chronic pain.

Conclusion:

Pregnancy following incisional hernia repair was associated with an increased risk of recurrence, but not with chronic pain.
Experimental study of lubricant-derived ash effects on diesel particulate filter performance
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Yanfei , Wong Victor W , Shuai Shijin , Qi Jinzhu , Wang Guoyang , Liu Fan , Hua Lun
Published: September 2019

Diesel particulate filters are indispensable for diesel engines to meet the increasingly stringent emission regulations. A large amount of ash would accumulate in the diesel particulate filter over time, which would significantly affect the diesel particulate filter performance. In this work, the lubricant-derived ash effects on diesel particulate filter pressure drop, diesel particulate filter filtration performance, diesel particulate filter temperature field during active regeneration, and diesel particulate filter downstream emissions during active regeneration were studied on an engine test bench. The test results show that the ash accumulated in the diesel particulate filter would decrease the diesel particulate filter pressure drop due to the “membrane effect” when the diesel particulate filter ash loading is lower than about 10 g/L, beyond which the diesel particulate filter pressure drop would be increased due to the reduction of diesel particulate filter effective volume. The ash loaded in the diesel particulate filter could significantly improve the diesel particulate filter filtration efficiency because it would fill the pores of diesel particulate filter wall. The diesel particulate filter peak temperature during active regeneration is consistent with the diesel particulate filter initial actual soot loading density prior to regeneration at various diesel particulate filter ash loading levels, while the diesel particulate filter maximum temperature gradient would increase with the diesel particulate filter ash loading increase, whether the diesel particulate filter is regenerated at the same soot loading level or the same diesel particulate filter pressure drop level. The ash accumulation in the diesel particulate filter shows little effects on diesel particulate filter downstream CO, total hydrocarbons, N2O emissions, and NO2/NO x ratio during active regeneration. However, a small amount of SO2 emissions was observed when the diesel particulate filter ash loading is higher than 10 g/L. The ash accumulated in the diesel particulate filter would increase the diesel particulate filter downstream sub-23 nm particle emissions but decrease larger particle emissions during active regeneration.
Zonal control for selective catalytic reduction system using a model-based multi-objective genetic algorithm
Authors: Wang Guoyang , Qi Jinzhu , Liu Shiyu , Li Yanfei , Shuai Shijin , Wang Zhiming
Published: September 2019

It is challenging for aqueous urea injection control to achieve high NO x conversion efficiency while restricting tailpipe ammonia (NH3) slip. Optimizing the selective catalytic reduction systems can reduce diesel engine emissions, potentially improve fuel economy and urea utilization efficiency, and finally reduce aftertreatment costs. In this article, a model-based multi-objective genetic algorithm is adopted to optimize selective catalytic reduction systems related to trade-off between NO x emission and NH3 slip. Selective catalytic reduction model is a one-state selective catalytic reduction model based on continuous stirred tank reactor theory, which significantly reduces the computational burden. The optimal NH3 coverage ratio map was obtained globally based on world harmonized transient cycle. The effect of temperature on optimal NH3 coverage ratio, Zonal control logics extracted from the optimal solution, and the control problems on different zones were analyzed. The zonal control logics were validated on multiple test cycle with different initial NH3 coverage ratios. Results show that the zonal control achieves high NO x conversion while restricting the tailpipe NH3 slip. With this method, NO x emission and NH3 slip of optimal solution can meet the requirements of the Euro VI emission regulation for heavy-duty diesel engines.
Co-creating communities: Fandoms in tourism spaces
Authors: Reichenberger Ina , Smith Karen A
Published: September 2019

Fandoms as expressions of popular culture are characterized by common interests and a sense of belonging and community. Creating and participating in communities is an inherent part of fandom, with tourism providing spaces for this community building to occur face to face. Overlaps between tourism and fandoms have been identified in popular culture (e.g. film tourism contexts); previous research, however, is characterized by disciplinary fragmentation and ambiguous transferability. This article introduces a conceptual framework of fan-based community co-creation, taking into account different intensities of fan involvement as well as factors that contribute to a psychologically perceived sense of community. The framework’s applicability to on-site tourism activities and fan-based events is illustrated, and recommendations for its empirical verification are provided.
Antifragile planning
Authors: Blečić Ivan , Cecchini Arnaldo
Published: September 2019

We argue that antifragility is a valuable and contentful goal for planning. We present a possible definition and outline the tenets and essential properties of an antifragile planning and compare it with approaches of urban resilience. We further present an argument for the legitimacy of an antifragile planning, by exploring its possible conceptualisation in terms of the capability approach. Hence the recommendation to incorporate antifragility into planning practice and content.