bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiation Dose and Image Quality in Neuroangiography: Effects of Increased Tube Voltage, Added X-Ray Filtration and Antiscatter Grid Removal
Authors: Söderman M. , Hansson B. , Axelsson B.
Published: January 2017

During endovascular treatment the patient may be subject to fluoroscopy for long periods as well as multiple x-ray exposures. The radiation dose to the patient can be considerable, and cause local deterministic effects such as alopecia or even skin burn. The potential carcinogenic effects should also be noted, being especially important in the paediatric population.

We measured radiation doses to patients and personnel during neuroendovascular procedures and diagnostic neuroangiography. We also tried to reduce the radiation dose to the patient utilising increased tube voltage, additional primary X-ray filtration and by removing the antiscatter grid in front of the image intensifier, employing air gap technique.

We investigated radiation doses to patient and personnel during neuroangiographic procedures and optimized the examination technique with regard to radiation dose with maintained image quality.

Radiation exposure to patients and personnel was measured with thermoluminescent dosimeters and permanently mounted KermaDose-Area-Product meters in front of the X-ray tubes during 13 cerebral angiographies and six neuroendovascular procedures. We performed experiments with radiation dose measurements and evaluation of image quality with 80 and 90 kV tube voltage during image acquisition and 75 and 85 kV during fluoroscopy, as well as with different primary X-ray filtration.

Images from patient studies acquired with the original grid in front of the image intensifier were compared with images from patient studies acquired with the grid removed and air gap technique (30 cm).

Images from patient studies acquired with the original examination technique were compared to images from patient studies acquired with increased x-ray tube voltage, increased x-ray filtering and with the antiscatter grid removed using an airgap as scatter reduction method.

Radiation exposure to personnel was very low using standard protective devices. Measurable doses were recorded only on the hands and forehead of the neuroradiologist.

Maximum entrance skin dose was about 1 Gy on the side of the patientspatient's forehead during an endovascular procedure.

Increasing the tube voltage from 75 to 85 – 85 and 90 kV, exchanging the original 0.5 mm aluminium primary filtration for 0.2 mm copper and removing the antiscatter grid allowed us to reduce entrance skin dose to the patient by 70% with unchanged or slightly improved image quality.
Pre-Operative Angiography and Embolisation of Petroclival Meningiomas
Authors: Masters L.T. , Nelson P.K.
Published: January 2017

We reviewed our experience of 15 patients with petroclival meningiomas who underwent pre-operative angiography, 11 of whom were embolised in the same session.

We analysed our cases to evaluate the variations in vascular supply to these tumours, their potential for embolisation, and the techniques used for their devascularization; as well as associated MRI findings.

The petroclival region is vascularised by the basal tentorial arcade. Petroclival meningiomas derive their blood supply from the ICA and ECA branches which form this network, and may also parasitize supply from the vertebrobasilar system. ICA (meningohypophyseal trunk) supply was present in all our patients, and 93% also had ECA contributions (basal tentorial branches of the middle and accessory meningeal arteries, the ascending pharyngeal artery, the artery of foramen rotundum and transmastoid branches of the occipital artery). 47% had pial supply from the vertebrobasilar system.

The ECA supply was partly or completely embolised in each of the 11 patients, and the meningohypophyseal contribution in one; there were no complications. Pre-operative angiographic assessment of patients with petroclival meningiomas provides important information for determining the surgical approach, and when combined with embolisation may facilitate a more complete resection of these surgically challenging lesions.
Endovascular Treatment of an Intracranial Dural Arteriovenous Fistula with Spinal Venous Drainage
Authors: Cruz R. , Stocker A. , Xavier J. , Almeida-Pinto J.
Published: January 2017

A case of type V intracranial dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) is reported because of its unusual rapidly progressive paraparesis. Despite this clinical presentation, the diagnosis of DAVF was made and precocious endovascular treatment was instituted. Angiographic normalization was obtained after embolisation and the patient significantly improved within the first weeks, although at the six month control MRI there still was a hyperintense signal of the cord in T2 weighted images, but less extensive than originally.
Post-Embolisation Flow Disturbances at the Basilar Tip Triggering the Development of an Arterial Aneurysm
Authors: Rodesch G. , Van Bogaert P. , Szliwowski H. , Baleriaux D. , Brotchi J.
Published: January 2017

We present the case of an 11-year-old boy with a large intracerebral and intraventricular haemorrhage due to rupture of a left temporal arteriovenous malformation. The child initially presented with severe headaches and meningism, right VIth nerve palsy, right hemianopsia, and expressive aphasia. After stabilization of his neurological status, the patient was embolised in two sessions with acrylic glue (Histoacryl*), obliterating nearly 90% of the nidus, the residual to be considered for gamma-knife radiosurgery.

The first session of embolisation had been complicated, during retrieval of the micro-catheter, by an erratic embolus of glue in the basilar artery. The child was kept for 24 hours under heparin anticoagulation in order to avoid any thrombosis, followed by aspirin. His neurological examination remained stable without worsening of his clinical condition. Further angiographic controls demonstrated the patency of the basilar artery itself with remodelling changes at the basilar tip, with preservation of the perforators in this region. Secondary dilatation of the basilar tip with development of an arterial aneurysm was noted three years after the accident, pointing to the importance of flow turbulence and vascular wall weakness in the development of an arterial aneurysm.

The clinical follow-up of this patient is 3.5 years; his neurological status is stable with hemianopsia, mild dysphasia and memory difficulties. Further follow-up will be needed in order to determine the therapeutic requirement for the arterial aneurysm.
The Role of Controlled Anticoagulation in Balloon Occluding Vertebral Arteries to Treat Giant Fusiform Aneurysms of the Basilar Artery
Authors: Ling F. , Zhang H. , Wang D. , Li M. , Miao Z. , Song Q. , Hao M. , Li X.
Published: January 2017

We suggest and discuss the role of controlled anticoagulation therapy after the balloon occlusion of vertebral arteries to treat giant fusiform aneurysms in the basilar trunk.

Two cases of giant fusiform aneurysms were treated with balloon occlusion of vertebral arteries. Both of these patients suffered severe brain stem ischaemia. Anticoagulants were used to adjust the PTT to 1.5–2.5 times the normal level to control the formation speed of thrombosis inside the aneurysms.

Case 1 was obliged to suspend the anticoagulation therapy one week after occlusion because of digestive tract haemorrhage, and died of severe brain stem ischaemia. On autopsy, the sac of the aneurysm was totally occupied by the thrombus. Two perforating arteries feeding the brain stem arising from the wall of the aneurysm and infarction in the brain stem were found. Case 2 was anticoagulated strictly and progressively improved after three weeks. Anticoagulation was terminated after one month. Follow-up MRI showed the aneurysm had disappeared six months later.

Giant fusiform aneurysms in the basilar artery trunk can be treated with the balloon occlusion of vertebral arteries which induces thrombosis in the sac of aneurysm. Controlled anticoagulation should be given to slow down the thrombotic obliteration in the perforators arising from the aneurysm wall to the brain stem and give the brain stem have enough time to establish the sufficient collateral circulation.
Multifocal Cerebral Fusiform Aneurysms in Children with Immune Deficiencies Report of Four Cases
Authors: Sedat J. , Alvarez H. , Rodesch G. , Lasjaunias P.
Published: January 2017

We describe three children infected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV 1), and one child suffering from familial mucocutaneous candidiasis, who all had multiple, fusiform subarachnoid intracranial aneurysms.

Because infectious causative agents were never detected at the level of the lesions, a classical “mycotic” origin of these aneurysms seemed unlikely. Despite the fact that these aneurysms have the same angiographic appearance, they have different etiologies (immune and infectious). These data open the discussion on the reciprocal role of an infectious or immune initial trigger acting on a vascular (endothelial) target. The specificities of the target in terms of location and response enhance specific topographic characteristics (phenotypes) of the cerebral vasculature.
Psychic Stress as a Trigger of the Spontaneous Development and Rupture of an Aneurysm?
Authors: Müller-Forell W. , Bohl J.
Published: January 2017

We present angiographical and neuropathological data of a 51-year-old woman, who primarily suffered from a recurrent glomus tempo-rale tumour on the left side and who finally died after a spontaneous rupture of a distal basilar aneurysm which developed during angiography. As a second important finding the existence of a vasospasm at the time of the rupture is also confirmed.
Performance influence in submersible pump with different diffuser inlet widths
Authors: Wei Qingshun , Sun Xihuan
Published: January 2017

The diffuser inlet width is a key geometric parameter that affects submersible pump performance. On the basis of diffuser characteristic curve analyses, diffusers with different inlet widths and the same impeller were equipped to construct a submersible pump model through the use of AutoCAD software. The performance curves of the submersible pump, with six diffuser inlet widths, were obtained using computational fluid dynamics method. Simultaneously, the simulation results were tested with the experimental method presented in this article. The results show that the optimum value of the inlet width ( b3 = 50 mm) is larger than the experience-based one. With an increase in the inlet width, the optimum operating point of a submersible pump offsets to a larger flow rate. When the guide blade inlet width is approximately 40–55 mm, the submersible pump efficiency is relatively high, approximately 75.9%–83.7% capacity, and the flow rate is approximately 105–135 m3/h. The numerical results of submersible pump performance are higher than those of the test results; however, their change trends have an acceptable agreement with each other. The practical significance is supplied by changing the inlet width of the diffuser to expand the scope of use.
A general thermal model of machine tool spindle
Authors: Dong Yanfang , Zhou Zude , Liu Mingyao
Published: January 2017

As the core component of machine tool, the thermal characteristics of the spindle have a significant influence on machine tool running status. Lack of an accurate model of the spindle system, particularly the model of load–deformation coefficient between the bearing rolling elements and rings, severely limits the thermal error analytic precision of the spindle. In this article, bearing internal loads, especially the function relationships between the principal curvature difference F( ρ) and auxiliary parameter nδ, semi-major axis a, and semi-minor axis b, have been determined; furthermore, high-precision heat generation combining the heat sinks in the spindle system is calculated; finally, an accurate thermal model of the spindle was established. Moreover, a conventional spindle with embedded fiber Bragg grating temperature sensors has been developed. By comparing the experiment results with simulation, it indicates that the model has good accuracy, which verifies the reliability of the modeling process.
Study of manufacturing resource perception and process control of a radio-frequency-identification-enabled decentralized flexible manufacturing system
Authors: Jiang Zengqiang , E Mingcheng , Liu Yu , Liu Jianxin , Li Yu
Published: January 2017

The fusion of mechatronics, communication, control, and information technologies has introduced new automation paradigms into the production environment. Plug-and-play flexible manufacturing systems will become suitable approaches in the future for the development of modular, flexible, and reconfigurable manufacturing systems, addressing the requirements of global markets. This article introduces a Petri Net model-driven methodology for the development, validation, and operation of a radio-frequency identification-enabled decentralized flexible manufacturing system. After analyzing the manufacturing processes and resources of a flexible manufacturing system, the manufacturing resources are classified into active and passive resources. Each active resource is equipped with a radio-frequency identification reader and each passive resource is banded with a radio-frequency identification tag. Real-time state and behavior logic models are built for manufacturing resources based on extended Petri Nets; the models are translated into XML and integrated with the manufacturing resources. In this fashion, each manufacturing resource becomes an autonomous agent, and it can make self-decisions and update its status through the twinned models. In this manner, automatic perception and process control are realized. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the method are verified in an experimental system.
Losartan Increases No Production from the Bovine Aortic Wall That is Stimulated by Angiotensin II
Authors: Myronidou M. , Kokkas B. , Kouyoumtzis A. , Gregoriadis N. , Lourbopoulos A. , Mylonas I. , Papadopoulos P.C. , Papadopoulos C.L. , Mirtsou–Fidani V.
Published: January 2017

In these studies we investigated if losartan, an AT1- receptor blocker has any beneficial effect on NO production from the bovine aortic preparations in vitro while under stimulation from angiotensin II. Experiments were performed on intact specimens of bovine thoracic aorta, incubated in Dulbeco's MOD medium in a metabolic shaker for 24 hours under 95 % O2 and 5 % CO2 at a temperature of 37°C. We found that angiotensin II 1nM−10 μM does not exert any statistically significant action on NO production. On the contrary, angiotensin II 10nM increases the production of NO by 58.14 % (from 12.16 + 2.9 μm/l to 19.23 + 4.2 μm/l in the presence of losartan 1nM (P<0.05). Nitric oxide levels depend on both rate production and rate catabolism or chemical inactivation. Such an equilibrium is vital for the normal function of many systems including the cardiovascular one. The above results demonstrate that the blockade of AT1-receptors favors the biosynthesis of NO and indicate the protective role of losartan on the vascular wall.
Interaction Connecting Leptin-Obesity-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Riccioni G. , Menna V. , Filippakos F. , Di Ilio C. , Di Tano G. , Costantini V. , Verna N. , Conti F. , De Lutiis M.A. , D'Orazio N.
Published: January 2017

Obesity is a chronic disease that is increasing in prevalence and represents an important risk factor for the developement of diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and many forms of cancer. Fat distribution has a profound influence on health risks. For example, increased deposits of visceral, or abdominal fat correlate with risks for many diseases. The leptin system is an important and essential regulating factor for body weight and developement. Many studies have demonstrated that leptin plays an important role in behavior disorders such as obesity and anorexia. In recent studies insulin resistance has received considerable attention in the development of the metabolic syndrome, a cluster of disorders comprising glucose intolerance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and dysfibrinolysis that is associated with type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The aim of this short review is to define the interaction between leptin, obesity and insulin dependent diabetes mellitus.
Effect of Ultrasound on Transdermal Permeation of Diclofenac
Authors: Van Der Bijl P. , Basson E. , Van Eyk A.D. , Seifart H.I.
Published: January 2017

During the last two decades the effects of ultrasound on the transdermal permeability to a wide variety of drugs have been extensively investigated. There is still some uncertainty regarding the mechanisms involved in ultrasonic permeation enhancement, thus we investigated the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the transdermal permeation of the NSAID, diclofenac. Experiments were conducted over two phases, consisting of different time periods, using a continuous flow-through diffusion system. It is clear from the present study that ultrasound enhanced the permeability of human skin to diclofenac released from a commercially available gel. These results were in contrast to those obtained for ibuprofen in an in vitro study across human skin, but in agreement with those obtained in two in vivo studies of the latter NSAID. Steady state flux values of diclofenac remained approximately 1.26 times higher than those of controls during the 24 h of the experiment. These observations concurred with those made in two previous in vivo studies. It was concluded that the enhancement of diclofenac permeation by sonication could not be adequately explained primarily on a thermal basis. Furthermore, the in vitro flow-through diffusion model was shown to have predictive value as an in vivo method for sonophoresis.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia and Sepsis Caused by a Multiresistant Staphylococcus Aureus Strain Resulting in a Severe and Long-Lasting Multiple Organ Inflammatory Involvement
Authors: Sabbatani S. , Manfredi R. , Marinacci G. , Chiodo F.
Published: January 2017

An exceptional case report of community-acquired, disseminated infection caused by a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strain, responsible for pneumonia, sepsis, and scattered septic embolism, and accompanied by diffuse polyvisceritis and thrombophlebitis as signs of an overwhelming extensive activation of the immune system, is reported and discussed on the grounds of the most recent evidence in literature. The striking features of a severe, multiresistant S. aureus polyvisceral disease associated with multiple immune-mediated focal manifestations are in contrast with the community-acquired origin of infection and the apparent absence of supporting factors for both antimicrobial resistance and the unexpected, exaggerated immune activation occurred in an otherwise healthy man. The extensive immune activation status (as demonstrated by a proportionally maintained absolute lymphocyte cont and a T-cell subset study pointing out an increased quote of CD4+, CD34+, and CD4-CD8- cells, compared with a proportional decrease of CD8+ T-lymphocytes) probably had a prominent role in prompting several focal clinical features of our patient, which apparently were not directly related to bacterial invasion, such as the polyvisceritis, the massive pleuric and pericardial effusion, the myocarditis-pericarditis, and the thrombophlebitis occurring in multiple and remote body sites, as compared with to the initial respiratory localization. This case report raises multiple questions regarding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management of complicated S. aureus infection, including the role of novel antimicrobial agents and corticosteroids.
Inflammatory Thermophilic Fungi are Used in Biotechnology Applications
Authors: Shaik Y.B.
Published: January 2017

Thermophilic microorganisms which can colonize at extreme ecological niches are known as extremophiles. Because of their capacity to withstand high temperatures, enzymes from these organisms are relatively heat stable. The versatile enzyme properties of these organisms make them excellent candidates in biotechnology. In general, fungi have been widely used for the production of proteins and enzymes, since they can grow rapidly in a low cost media and they secrete proteins into the extra-cellular medium. Recently, these organisms have also been used in large scale fermentation as host for the expression of heterologous proteins in industrial applications. However, little is known about the regulation and genetic manipulations of these fungi. We have previously shown the regulation of gene expression in a thermophilic fungus, Thermyces lanuginosus, using an inducible invertase system. The aim of this review is to elucidate the recent advances of thermophilic fungi, and their implications in industrial applications are discussed.
Etanercept in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Long Term Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy in Clinical Practice
Authors: Cacace E. , Anedda C. , Ruggiero V. , Fornasier D. , Denotti A. , Perpignano G.
Published: January 2017

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease of erosive nature that tends to progress to juxta-articular destruction and ankylosis. The pathological events that lead to joint destruction are due, in part, to an enhanced expression of Tumour Necrosis Factor (TNF). It has been shown that TNF-α blocking agents significantly reduce joint inflammation and slow down the progression of radiographic joint damage. Etanercept is a biological drug obtained through recombinant DNA techniques that acts by inhibiting the cellular response mediated by TNF. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and tolerance of Etanercept in patients affected by active Rheumatoid Arthritis non- responsive to standard traditional therapies. All patients presented an improvement in the illness. Our study concords with the most recent data from literature that Etanercept acts rapidly and offers a quick and long-lasting reduction of illness activity, as well as an improvement in functional capability and quality of life in patients affected by active RA.
Microbiological Aspects and Inflammatory Response of Pulp Tissue in Traumatic Dental Lesions
Authors: Tripodi D. , Latrofa M. , D'Ercole S.
Published: January 2017

Traumatic dental lesions are more frequently found in the pediatric population, with a major involvement, in 80% of the cases, of the superior central incisors. The exposure of the dental pulp leads to major morphological changes in dental tissue, such as discolouring, acute pulp inflammation, chronic inflammation and necrosis. This article reviews the various studies published on the different types of inflammatory response of the pulp tissue following traumatic events, from the microbiological and histological point of view of various techniques.
Cytotoxic and Inflammatory Effects of Contact Lens Multipurpose Solutions on Human Corneal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Erdinest N. , Ovadia H. , Solomon A.
Published: January 2017

Multipurpose solutions (MPSs) are the leading method for cleaning and disinfecting soft contact lenses (CLs). During recent years, numerous clinical studies have evaluated the MPS damage to the ocular surface. This study examined the cytotoxic and the inflammatory effects of MPSs and hydrogen peroxide disinfection system (H202) compared to appropriate controls on human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells. Primary cultured HCE cells were exposed to eight different commercially available MPS products (MPS A, ReNu MultiPlus®; MPS B, Opti Free® EverMoist; MPS C, Solo-care Aqua®; MPS-D, Complete®; MPS-E, Unica Sensitive®; MPS-F, Options Multi®; MPS-G, Biotrue®; MPS-H, COMPLETE® RevitaLens). Morphological changes and cytotoxic effects were examined with FITC-Annexin V/PI and MTT assays. The protein contents of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-8 were examined by multiplex fluorescent bead immunoassay (FBI), and the mRNA expression was examined by real time PCR. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with 500 ng/ml CD14 and 500 ng/ml LBP (LPS complex), polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (Poly I:C) and un-neutralized H202 served as positive controls, respectively. Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was added as a negative control. The study demonstrated that most of the MPSs induced varying degrees of cytotoxicity to HCE cells, and increased production of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to the negative control. In addition, several MPS increased the mRNA level of inhibitory factor-κBα (1-κBα). Among the various MPSs, MPS-H induced the highest protein contents of the pro-inflammatory cytokines (14.37±2.2-fold for TNF-α, 41.39±2.5-fold for IL-1β and 5.24±0.6-fold for IL-6) compared to the negative control (p<0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were noted between the neutralized H202 and the negative control. We conclude that most of the currently used MPSs induce significant damage and inflammatory response in corneal epithelial cells. MPS-induced inflammation was mediated through NF-κB signal transduction. This study demonstrates for the first time inflammatory responses at the molecular level in primary HCE cells following exposure to a large series of commercially available and commonly used MPSs. These findings strongly suggest that certain MPSs may be partially involved in the pathogenesis of contact lens intolerance. Therefore, we recommend that practitioners advise patients as to the preferable disinfecting contact lens solutions, and to consider using the hydrogen peroxide disinfection systems instead.
Interleukin-17 Produced by Malignant Mesothelioma-Polarized Immune Cells Promotes Tumor Growth and Invasiveness
Authors: Izzi V. , Chiurchiù V. , Doldo E. , Palumbo C. , Tresoldi I. , Bei R. , Albonici L. , Modesti A.
Published: January 2017

Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a highly fatal tumor of inner body membranes, the extensive growth of which is supported by both a weak immunogenicity and the ability to reprogram surrounding immune cells towards tumor-supporting phenotypes. Interleukin-17 (IL-17) is a major inflammatory cytokine which is now accepted as the paradigmatic cytokine of many autoimmune diseases; however, its role in tumor immunology has only been partially unraveled, and no data exist regarding its possible involvement in MM. Thus, in this work we evaluated the ability of MM to induce IL-17 production in immune cells and the effects of IL-17 on MM growth and invasiveness. Our data show for the first time that macrophages and CD4+ T-cells are polarized by MM to produce IL-17, and that this cytokine exerts multiple tumor-supporting effects on both cell growth and invasiveness. These data provide novel evidence of the crosstalk occurring between MM and immune cells and suggest potential targets for the development of new pharmacological approaches for MM treatment.
TH17-Driven Inflammation is Present in All Clinical Forms of Multiple Sclerosis; Disease Quiescence is Associated with Gata3-Expressing Cells
Authors: Saresella M. , Tortorella P. , Marventano I. , Al-Daghri N. , Piancone F. , Gatti A. , Gironi M. , Caputo D. , Rovaris M. , Clerici M.
Published: January 2017

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) presents in a variety of clinical forms associated with a diverse grade of neurological impairment, different prognosis and, possibly, multiple pathogenic mechanisms. Thus, whereas relapsing-remitting (RR) MS appears to be largely driven by inflammatory processes, neurodegeneration, partially independent from inflammation, drives primary progressive (PP) and secondary progressive (SP) MS. An extensive analysis of neuroinflammation in the different forms of MS was performed by evaluating immunophenotypic and functional parameters in MBP-stimulated T lymphocytes of 103 MS patients (26 benign (BE) MS, 30 RRMS, 33 SPMS and 14 PPMS) and 40 healthy controls (HC). Results showed that: i) IL-17-producing and RORC/γt-expressing CD4+ T cells (TH17 lymphocytes), as well as IL-6 expressing CD14+ cell were augmented in all patients; ii) IL-22-expressing cells were increased in all forms of MS with the exception of PPMS; iii) TGF-β-expressing B cells were increased only in RRMS; and iv) GATA3-, NFATc-1, IL-13-, and IL-25-expressing cells (TH2 lymphocytes) were augmented in RRMS and BEMS patients alone. Data herein indicate a pivotal pathogenic role of TH17-driven inflammation in all clinical forms of MS and suggest that control over disease (RRMS and BEMS) is associated not with lack of inflammation per se, but rather with the activation of immune-mediated anti-inflammatory mechanisms. These results could help the design of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
Kyrle's Disease: Treatment with Minocycline and Topic Tacalcitol
Authors: Persechino S. , Cortesi G. , Caperchi C. , Abruzzese C. , Narcisi A. , Persechino F. , Tammaro A.
Published: January 2017

Kyrle's disease is a rare perforative skin dermatosis. It was first described in 1916 by J. Kyrle, under the name of hyperkeratosis follicularis et parafollicular in cutem penetrans. It refers to a disorder of keratinization, which usually appears as scattered or grouped hyperkeratotic papules on the extremities and the trunk characterized by extrusion of keratotic material into an epidermal invagination.
Lack of Systemic Side Effects of Long-Term Inhaled Fluticasone Propionate Use in a Cohort of Asthmatic Children
Authors: Angelini F. , Corrente S. , Romiti M.L. , Moschese V. , Polito A. , Chiocchi M. , Monteferrario E. , Masala S. , Chini L.
Published: January 2017

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are established as first-line therapy for persistent asthma in children. Fluticasone propionate (FP) has been used because it has equivalent efficacy when used at half-dose of older-generation ICS and has a comparable safety profile. However, concerns persist about the potential risk of adverse effects of long-term FP therapy on childhood growth, bone, adrenal function and immune system. To evaluate the potential adverse effects of FP, we analyzed growth, glucidic metabolism, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, bone metabolism, bone mass density and immune system in a cohort of 19 children (average 102±18 months), with asthma who were in treatment with FP (average duration: 14 months, range: 11–17 months). Of these, 11 children homogenous for control of asthma symptoms, and compliance to therapy, were selected for a prospective study during which they were treated with FP250 mg/day for further 6 months (total period of treatment average duration: 22 months, range: 18–23 months). In all children, no alterations of growth, glucidic metabolism, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, bone metabolism, bone mass density, immune system nor severe exacerbation of the disease were observed. Our study, showing that FP was able to control the symptoms of asthma and confirming the lack of systemic side effects at the recommended doses, supports its long-term use in children with asthma.
The Eyes as Windows Into Other Minds
Authors: Grossmann Tobias
Published: January 2017

Eyes have been shown to play a key role during human social interactions. However, to date, no comprehensive cross-discipline model has provided a framework that can account for uniquely human responses to eye cues. In this review, I present a framework that brings together work on the phylogenetic, ontogenetic, and neural bases of perceiving and responding to eyes. Specifically, I argue for a two-process model: a first process that ensures privileged attention to information encoded in the eyes and is important for the detection of other minds and a second process that permits the decoding of information contained in the eyes concerning another person’s emotional and mental states. To some degree, these processes are unique to humans, emerge during different times in infant development, can be mapped onto distinct but interconnected brain regions, and likely serve critical functions in facilitating cooperative interactions in humans. I also present evidence to show that oxytocin is a key modulator of sensitive responding to eye cues. Viewing eyes as windows into other minds can therefore be considered a hallmark feature of human social functioning deeply rooted in our biology.
What Constitutes Strong Psychological Science? The (Neglected) Role of Diagnosticity and A Priori Theorizing
Authors: Fiedler Klaus
Published: January 2017

A Bayesian perspective on Ioannidis’s (2005) memorable statement that “Most Published Research Findings Are False” suggests a seemingly inescapable trade-off: It appears as if research hypotheses are based either on safe ground (high prior odds), yielding valid but unsurprising results, or on unexpected and novel ideas (low prior odds), inspiring risky and surprising findings that are inevitably often wrong. Indeed, research of two prominent types, sexy hypothesis testing and model testing, is often characterized by low priors (due to astounding hypotheses and conjunctive models) as well as low-likelihood ratios (due to nondiagnostic predictions of the yin-or-yang type). However, the trade-off is not inescapable: An alternative research approach, theory-driven cumulative science, aims at maximizing both prior odds and diagnostic hypothesis testing. The final discussion emphasizes the value of pluralistic science, within which exploratory phenomenon-driven research can play a similarly strong part as strict theory-testing science.
Microaggressions
Authors: Lilienfeld Scott O.
Published: January 2017

The microaggression concept has recently galvanized public discussion and spread to numerous college campuses and businesses. I argue that the microaggression research program (MRP) rests on five core premises, namely, that microaggressions (1) are operationalized with sufficient clarity and consensus to afford rigorous scientific investigation; (2) are interpreted negatively by most or all minority group members; (3) reflect implicitly prejudicial and implicitly aggressive motives; (4) can be validly assessed using only respondents’ subjective reports; and (5) exert an adverse impact on recipients’ mental health. A review of the literature reveals negligible support for all five suppositions. More broadly, the MRP has been marked by an absence of connectivity to key domains of psychological science, including psychometrics, social cognition, cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavior genetics, and personality, health, and industrial-organizational psychology. Although the MRP has been fruitful in drawing the field’s attention to subtle forms of prejudice, it is far too underdeveloped on the conceptual and methodological fronts to warrant real-world application. I conclude with 18 suggestions for advancing the scientific status of the MRP, recommend abandonment of the term “microaggression,” and call for a moratorium on microaggression training programs and publicly distributed microaggression lists pending research to address the MRP’s scientific limitations.
Through a Glass, Darkly
Authors: Lilienfeld Scott O.
Published: January 2017

In this rejoinder, I respond to the comments from three sets of eminent scholars regarding my critique of the microaggression research program (MRP). I concur with Haidt (2017, this issue) that a significant shortcoming of the MRP is its insufficient emphasis on the subjective appraisal of microaggressions. I concur with Ong and Burrow (2017, this issue) that intensive longitudinal studies of microaggressions should enhance our knowledge of their short-term and long-term impact, although I urge researchers to assess microaggressions in conjunction with personality traits using a multi-informant framework. In contrast to Sue (2017, this issue), I argue that psychological science is our best hope for understanding microaggressions and that well-intentioned but untested interventions designed to reduce microaggressions may do more harm than good. I conclude that the MRP would benefit from greater modesty in its assertions and more open acknowledgment of its marked scientific limitations.
A novel algorithm L-NCD for redundant reader elimination in P2P-RFID network
Authors: Xu He , Shen Weiwei , Li Peng , Zhu Jiawei , Wang Ruchuan
Published: January 2017

With the development of radio frequency identification technology, radio frequency identification system has been deployed in different applications in a large scale. It needs a densely deployed reader environment to cover the work area, especially in radio frequency identification logistics and warehousing applications. If the distribution area and the number of readers are not optimized, and some of them will be redundant, which will reduce the efficiency of the whole radio frequency identification system. Researchers have proposed many algorithms and optimization techniques to solve the problem of redundant readers. In this paper, the authors propose a novel redundant reader elimination algorithm, namely, L-NCD, in P2P-RFID reader network, combined with layered eliminate optimization and neighboring coverage density. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm eliminates more redundant readers than the other methods such as redundant-reader elimination under the same conditions.
Diagnosing central lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage as traumatic or degenerative: a review of clinical accuracy
Authors: Löw S. , Erne H. , Pillukat T. , Mühldorfer-Fodor M. , Unglaub F. , Spies C. K.
Published: January 2017

This study examined the reliability of surgeons’ estimations as to whether central lesions of the triangular fibrocartilage complex were traumatic or degenerative. A total of 50 consecutive central triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions were independently rated by ten experienced wrist surgeons viewing high-quality arthroscopy videos. The videos were reassessed after intervals of 3 months; at the second assessment surgeons were given the patient’s history, radiographs and both, each in a randomized order. Finally, the surgeons assessed the histories and radiographs without the videos. Kappa statistics revealed fair interrater agreement when the histories were added to the videos. The other four modalities demonstrated moderate agreement, with lower Kappa values for the assessment without videos. Intra-rater reliability showed fair agreement for three surgeons, moderate agreement for two surgeons and substantial agreement for five surgeons. It appears that classification of central triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions depends on the information provided upon viewing the triangular fibrocartilage complex at arthroscopy.

Level of evidence: II
Salvage therapy using self-expandable metal stents for recalcitrant anastomotic strictures after living-donor liver transplantation
Authors: Jang Sung Ill , Sung Se Yong , Park Hyunsung , Lee Kwang-Hun , Joo Seung-Moon , Lee Dong Ki
Published: January 2017

Background:

Recently, there has been an increase in clinical success rates using nonsurgical methods to resolve anastomotic biliary strictures (ABSs) that develop after liver transplantation (LT). However, some strictures are particularly refractory and cannot be completely resolved by an endoscopic or percutaneous procedure. Consequently, the aim of this study was to examine the feasibility and efficacy of using a newly designed fully covered self-expandable metal stent (FCSEMS) to resolve refractory ABS.

Methods:

A total of 35 patients with an ABS that developed after LT, but could not be resolved by an endoscopic or percutaneous procedure, were included in this study. FCSEMSs were positioned endoscopically and removed after 2–3 months. After stent removal, the patients were followed to assess complications, including re-stenosis.

Results:

The mean period from LT to stricture was 13.7 months, and the mean duration of the stricture was 31.8 months. The type and mean number of procedures previously attempted were endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) (9.1 ± 5.1) in 19 patients and percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (9.2 ± 4.8) in 16 patients. All patients had successful FCSEMS insertions and removals; the mean stent indwelling time was 3.2 months. The mean follow-up period was 18.7 months (range: 6.4–37.8 months). Stricture recurrence was observed in 6 of 29 patients (recurrence rate: 20.7%). The anastomotic stricture resolved with the FCSEMS insertion in 29 of 35 patients (clinical success rate: 82.9%).

Conclusions:

The newly designed FCSEMS is a potentially feasible and effective treatment for anastomotic strictures that develop after LT but are not amenable to treatment by conventional procedures.
Obesogenic environments: current evidence of the built and food environments
Authors: Townshend Tim , Lake Amelia
Published: January 2017

Aims:

Obesity is one of the most significant global health and social problems, with rates rising dramatically over the past few decades. While the basic drivers of obesity are obvious (more energy consumed than expended), the causes are multifactorial and complex. A decade ago, it was suggested that exploring the ways in which the built environment influenced physical activity and dietary behaviours might provide fertile ground for investigation. This article overviews current evidence and, in particular, emergent themes that are of significance for the United Kingdom.

Methods:

This article is based on literature extracted from keyword searching of electronic databases. A timeframe of 2006–2016 was used.

Results:

In the past decade, the research base has grown significantly; while frustratingly some results are still inconclusive or contradictory, it might be argued enough evidence exists to act upon. Themes such as the importance of the journey to school for young people and the multiple environments in which people spend their time are examples of where real progress has been made in the evidence base.

Conclusion:

Progress towards real change in policy and practice may seem slow; however, the opportunities afforded for health and planning professionals to work together provide a step towards the whole systems approaches to tackle obesity that are desperately needed.
Capturing sexual assault data: An information system designed by forensic clinicians and healthcare researchers
Authors: Mukhtar S Aqif , Smith Debbie A , Phillips Maureen A , Kelly Maire C , Zilkens Renate R , Semmens James B
Published: January 2017

Background:

The Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC) in Perth, Western Australia provides free 24-hour medical, forensic, and counseling services to persons aged over 13 years following sexual assault. Objective: The aim of this research was to design a data management system that maintains accurate quality information on all sexual assault cases referred to SARC, facilitating audit and peer-reviewed research.

Methods:

The work to develop SARC Medical Services Clinical Information System (SARC-MSCIS) took place during 2007–2009 as a collaboration between SARC and Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia. Patient demographics, assault details, including injury documentation, and counseling sessions were identified as core data sections. A user authentication system was set up for data security. Data quality checks were incorporated to ensure high-quality data.

Results:

An SARC-MSCIS was developed containing three core data sections having 427 data elements to capture patient’s data. Development of the SARC-MSCIS has resulted in comprehensive capacity to support sexual assault research. Four additional projects are underway to explore both the public health and criminal justice considerations in responding to sexual violence. The data showed that 1,933 sexual assault episodes had occurred among 1881 patients between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2015. Sexual assault patients knew the assailant as a friend, carer, acquaintance, relative, partner, or ex-partner in 70% of cases, with 16% assailants being a stranger to the patient.

Conclusion:

This project has resulted in the development of a high-quality data management system to maintain information for medical and forensic services offered by SARC. This system has also proven to be a reliable resource enabling research in the area of sexual violence.
Best practice in the management of clinical coding services: Insights from a project in the Republic of Ireland, Part 1
Authors: Reid Beth A , Ridoutt Lee , O’Connor Paul , Murphy Deirdre
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

This article presents some of the results of a year-long project in the Republic of Ireland to review the quality of the hospital inpatient enquiry data for its use in activity-based funding (ABF). This is the first of two papers regarding best practice in the management of clinical coding services.

Methods:

Four methods were used to address this aspect of the project, namely a literature review, a workshop, an assessment of the coding services in 12 Irish hospitals by structured interviews of the clinical coding managers, and a medical record audit of the clinical codes in 10 hospitals.

Results:

The results included here are those relating to the quality of the medical records, coding work allocation and supervision processes, data quality control measures, communication with clinicians, and the visibility of clinical coders, their managers, and the coding service.

Conclusion:

The project found instances of best practice in the study hospitals but also found several areas needing improvement. These included improving the structure and content of the medical record, clinician engagement with the clinical coding teams and the ABF process, and the use of data quality control measures.
Group-Value Ambiguity
Authors: Mendoza-Denton Rodolfo , Goldman-Flythe Michelle , Pietrzak Janina , Downey, Geraldine , Aceves Mario J.
Published: January 2017

The authors applied insights from the group-value theory of procedural justice to investigate minority students' disengagement of self-esteem from academic outcomes. African American college students completed the race-based rejection sensitivity (RS-race) questionnaire. The students were asked to write a position essay on a current topic. They were randomly assigned to complete a demographic form in which they disclosed or did not disclose their race and to receive negative or positive feedback. When race was undisclosed, performance self-esteem was greater after positive feedback relative to negative feedback, regardless of RS-race. When race was disclosed, feedback valence affected self-esteem only among those lower in RS-race. Following positive feedback, these participants showed the greatest gains in self-esteem. Consistent with group-value theory, changes in self-esteem were explained by participants' concerns and emotions around fairness, respect, and acceptance. The authors discuss implications for minority student achievement.
Cultural Stereotyping, Convergent Expectations, and Performance in Cross-Cultural Collaborations
Authors: Yoon Kay , Hollingshead Andrea B.
Published: January 2017

A laboratory experiment tested the hypothesis that under certain conditions, convergent expectations based on cultural stereotypes may have coordination and performance benefits in cross-cultural collaborations. One hundred and fourteen participants (58 of White European and 56 of Asian descent) worked on a collaborative learning task in same-sex dyads. The independent variables were the dyad’s cultural composition (similar vs. diverse) and whether members could communicate using instant messaging (yes or no). The results showed that (a) when members could not communicate, culturally diverse dyads used cultural stereotypes for task assignments, which resulted in fewer coordination errors and better collective performance when compared to culturally similar dyads; (b) when members could communicate, culturally similar dyads performed as well as culturally diverse dyads; and (c) the influence of cultural stereotypes on task assignments persisted for culturally diverse dyads. There was no support for the hypothesis that culturally diverse dyads would experience more negative socioemotional reactions than culturally similar dyads.