bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Nature of Partisan Conflict in Public Opinion: Asymmetric or Symmetric?
Authors: Lasala Blanco Maria Narayani , Shapiro Robert Y. , Wilke Joy
Published: October 2020

What are the dynamics of partisan conflict in the mass public in the United States? Has this conflict been driven by Republicans moving to the right across a wide range of issues, or have Democrats contributed to this as well? Have these changes been symmetric, occurring for both sides, or asymmetric, occurring for just one side? Understanding how the partisan gaps have widened may shed light on potential prospects for reversing extreme political conflict in public opinion. This paper examines this question with an analysis of opinion trend data over the last 40 years. It includes an original analysis of these trends among racial and ethnic groups. We find that symmetric partisan changes have only occurred among whites. Overall partisan differences have been less for Blacks and Hispanics than for whites.
Identification of Hub Genes in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma: Evidence From Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Li Liqi , Zhu Mingjie , Huang Hu , Wu Junqiang , Meng Dong
Published: October 2020

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare type of thyroid cancer that results in fatal clinical outcomes; the pathogenesis of this life-threatening disease has yet to be fully elucidated. This study aims to identify the hub genes of ATC that may play key roles in ATC development and could serve as prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Two microarray datasets (GSE33630 and GSE53072) were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database; these sets included 16 ATC and 49 normal thyroid samples. Differential expression analyses were performed for each dataset, and 420 genes were screened as common differentially expressed genes using the robust rank aggregation method. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were conducted to explore the potential bio-functions of these differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The terms and enriched pathways were primarily associated with cell cycle, cell adhesion, and cancer-related signaling pathways. Furthermore, a protein-protein interaction network of DEG expression products was constructed using Cytoscape. Based on the whole network, we identified 7 hub genes that included CDK1, TOP2A, CDC20, KIF11, CCNA2, NUSAP1, and KIF2C. The expression levels of these hub genes were validated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction analyses of clinical specimens. In conclusion, the present study identified several key genes that are involved in ATC development and provides novel insights into the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of ATC development.
Silencing p53 inhibits interleukin 10-induced activated hepatic stellate cell senescence and fibrotic degradation in vivo
Authors: Guo Qilan , Chen Minghua , Chen Qingduo , Xiao Guitao , Chen Zhixin , Wang Xiaozhong , Huang Yuehong
Published: October 2020

Activated hepatic stellate cells are reported to play a significant role in liver fibrogenesis. Beside the phenotype reversion and apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells, the senescence of activated hepatic stellate cells limits liver fibrosis. Our previous researches have demonstrated that interleukin-10 could promote hepatic stellate cells senescence via p53 signaling pathway in vitro. However, the relationship between expression of p53 and senescence of activated hepatic stellate cells induced by interleukin-10 in fibrotic liver is unclear. The purpose of present study was to explore whether p53 plays a crucial role in the senescence of activated hepatic stellate cells and degradation of collagen mediated by interleukin-10. Hepatic fibrosis animal model was induced by carbon tetrachloride through intraperitoneal injection and transfection of interleukin-10 gene to liver was performed by hydrodynamic-based transfer system. Depletions of p53 in vivo and in vitro were carried out by adenovirus-based short hairpin RNA against p53. Regression of fibrosis was assessed by liver biopsy and collagen staining. Cellular senescence in the liver was observed by senescence-associated beta-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) staining. Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence double staining, and Western blot analysis were used to evaluate the senescent cell and senescence-related protein expression. Our data showed that interleukin-10 gene treatment could lighten hepatic fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride and induce the aging of activated hepatic stellate cells accompanied by up-regulating the expression of aging-related proteins. We further demonstrated that depletion of p53 could abrogate up-regulation of interleukin-10 on the expression of senescence-related protein in vivo and vitro. Moreover, p53 knockout in fibrotic mice could block not only the senescence of activated hepatic stellate cells, but also the degradation of fibrosis induced by interleukin-10 gene intervention. Taken together, our results suggested that interleukin-10 gene treatment could attenuate carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatic fibrosis by inducing senescence of activated hepatic stellate cells in vivo, and this induction was closely related to p53 signaling pathway.
LVC Allocator: Aligning training value with scenario design for envisioned LVC training of fast-jet pilots
Authors: Aronsson Sanna , Artman Henrik , Mitchell Mikael , Ramberg Robert , Woltjer Rogier
Published: October 2020

Live virtual constructive (LVC) flight simulations mix pilots flying actual aircraft, pilots flying in simulators, and computer-generated forces, in joint scenarios. Training resources invested in LVC scenarios must give a high return, and therefore pilots in both live aircraft and simulators need to experience training value for the extensive resources invested in both, an aspect not emphasized in current LVC research. Thus, there is a need for a function, in this article described as LVC Allocator, which assures that complex LVC training scenarios include aspects of training value for all participants, and, thus, purposefully align scenario design with training value. A series of workshops were carried out with 16 fast-jet pilots articulating the training challenges that LVC could contribute to solving, and allocating LVC entities in a training scenario design exercise. The training values for LVC included large scenarios, weapon delivery, flight safety, adversary performance, and weather dependence. These values guided the reasoning of how to allocate different entities to L, V, or C entities. Allocations were focused on adversaries as V, keeping entity types together, weather dependence, low-altitude and supersonic flying requirements, and to let L entities handle and lead complex tasks to keep the human in the loop.
Management of distal aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery by percutaneous ultrasound-guided Onyx injection: A case report
Authors: Simoncini Fabio , Mastrorilli Davide , Mezzetto Luca , Angrisano Alessandro , Scorsone Lorenzo , Bergamaschi Gastone , Veraldi Gian Franco
Published: October 2020

Objectives

The aim of this article is to report an alternative approach for the management of a distal aneurysm of superior mesenteric artery using direct percutaneous ultrasound-guided Onyx injection.

Methods

We report a rare case of symptomatic superior mesenteric artery aneurysm. A 78-year-old man presents with pain and pulsating mass in the right umbilical region of the abdomen. The patient was treated by percutaneous ultrasound-guided Onyx injection after several failing transarterial embolization attempts.

Results

The procedure was successful without any complication, and the patient wasdischarged to home the day after procedure. Follow-up at 60 months confirmed the complete thrombosis of the aneurysm sac. Ultrasound-guided Onyx injection for distal superior mesenteric artery aneurysm could provide an alternative to transcatheter arterial embolization or open surgery. Anatomical assessment of collaterals and knowledge of abdomen anatomy could play important roles in preventing bowel ischemia and minimizing the risk of procedural complication.

Conclusion

Ultrasound-guided Onyx injection of superior mesenteric artery aneurysm is a feasible, effective, and cost-saving technique that can be used when endovascular approach is not possible or has failed.
A comparative study of teaching and learning in German and Chinese vocational education and training schools: A classroom observation study
Authors: Guo Henan , Pilz Matthias
Published: October 2020

This study compares teaching and learning in German and Chinese vocational education and training (VET) schools. The adoption of teaching methods and instructional media are used as two descriptive dimensions. Relevant data on these factors were collected through systematic classroom observation. Generally, both similarities and differences can be noted between German and Chinese VET schools. The results concerning adoption of teaching methods and instructional media are discussed in the context of two factors: teacher education; and curriculum.
Urinary incontinence and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities of Mekelle city, Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Berhe Arsema , Alamer Abayneh , Negash Kiflom , Assefa Belete
Published: October 2020

Background:

Urinary incontinence is any involuntary leakage of urine. It has serious negative health impacts on quality of life in pregnant women. According to the scientific committee of the International Continence Society report, worldwide prevalence of urinary incontinence estimated ranges between 32% and 64% among pregnant women. However, there is scarcity of evidence on prevalence and associated factors of urinary incontinence in Ethiopia.

Objective:

The aims of this study were to assess prevalence and associated factors of urinary incontinence among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities of Mekelle city, Tigray, Ethiopia.

Methodology:

Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Physical examination was done to assess the strength of pelvic floor muscles. The data were entered to EPI Info version 7 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done to investigate the factors associated with urinary incontinence.

Results:

Among 317 respondents, the prevalence of urinary incontinence was 23%. The contributing factors that had statistically significant association with urinary incontinence were gestational age (adjusted odds ratio: 9.6 (1.87–49.39, 95%), parity (adjusted odds ratio: 6.32 (1.48–27.05), 95% confidence interval), prior miscarriage (adjusted odds ratio: 6.28 (2.15–18.28), 95% confidence interval), constipation (adjusted odds ratio: 8.25 (3.12–21.84), 95% confidence interval), respiratory problem (adjusted odds ratio: 6.31 (2.05–19.43), 95% confidence interval), and weak pelvic floor muscle (adjusted odds ratio: 7.55 (2.51–22.67), 95% confidence interval).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of urinary incontinence is moderate compared to other studies. Gestational age, parity, prior miscarriage, having constipation, having respiratory problem, and weak pelvic floor muscle had significant association with urinary incontinence. This finding will help to increase the awareness of health care professionals involved in the care of pregnant women about urinary incontinence.
Gendered landscapes of safety: How women construct and navigate the urban landscape to avoid sexual violence
Authors: Roberts Nicola , Donovan Catherine , Durey Matthew
Published: October 2020

This article presents findings from an online survey gathering quantitative and qualitative data from men and women students at a university in the north of England in 2016. The survey explored their perceptions of safety and experiences of interpersonal violence during their time as a student, both on and off campus. We show how women were more likely to report sexual violence compared to men. We also show how women students, compared to men, were less likely to say they never felt unsafe as they moved away from the university into the city, and as they moved from day into night. We illustrate how interconnecting factors construct women’s perceptions of safety, and subsequently, how locations perceived as unsafe ‘hotspots’, become physical barriers impeding women’s access to public and educational spaces. Consequently, we outline measures to enhance women’s safety while at university.
Re-thinking memory and transitional justice: A novel application of ecological memory
Authors: Clark Janine Natalya
Published: October 2020

While transitional justice processes call upon individuals and societies to recall and remember, memory practices – and more specifically the frequent politicisation of memory in transitional societies – can undermine transitional justice goals, including peace and reconciliation. This interdisciplinary article seeks to re-think the relationship between transitional justice and memory. It does so by introducing the concept of ecological memory, a supra-political form of memory centred on complex ecosystem responses to disturbance events and the development of resilience to future shocks and stressors. Transposing the concept of ecological memory to the novel context of transitional justice can ultimately foster a new alignment between memory and transitional justice that is more conducive to the realisation of the latter’s core goals. Drawing on empirical data, the article seeks to demonstrate that transitional justice processes can contribute to fostering ecological memory by giving attention to the ecological legacies of war crimes and human rights violations.
Pregnancy outcomes after exposure to interferon beta: a register-based cohort study among women with MS in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Hakkarainen Katja Marja , Juuti Rosa , Burkill Sarah , Geissbühler Yvonne , Sabidó Meritxell , Popescu Catrinel , Suzart-Woischnik Kiliana , Hillert Jan , Artama Miia , Verkkoniemi-Ahola Auli , Myhr Kjell-Morten , Mehtälä Juha , Bahmanyar Shahram , Montgomery Scott , Korhonen Pasi , Adamo Alessandra , Wicklein Eva-Maria , Akbaba Metin , Borghesi Gustavo , Köfüncü Evra , Everage Nicholas , Pandhi Avni , Naylor Maria , Ly Anh , Jack Dominic , Todorovic Milorad , Issard Delphine , Macklin Alexandra , Primatesta Paola , Weitzman Richard , Klement Riho , Vehkala Minna , Vattulainen Pia , Korjagina Marta , Gyllensten Hanna
Published: October 2020

Background

Our aim was to estimate and compare the prevalence of adverse pregnancy outcomes among pregnant women with multiple sclerosis (MS) exposed to interferon beta (IFNB) and among women with MS unexposed to any MS disease-modifying drug (MSDMD).

Methods

This cohort study used Finnish (1996–2014) and Swedish (2005–2014) national register data. Women with MS having IFNB dispensed 6 months before or during pregnancy as the only medication were considered as IFNB exposed (only IFNB-exposed), whereas women with MS unexposed to any MSDMD were considered unexposed (MSDMD-unexposed). Prevalence was described and compared using log-binomial or logistic regression and adjusted for potential confounders including maternal age and comorbidity.

Results

Among 2831 pregnancies, 2.2% of the only IFNB-exposed and 4.0% of the MSDMD-unexposed women had serious adverse pregnancy outcomes [elective termination of pregnancy due to foetal anomaly (TOPFA), major congenital anomaly (MCA) in live, or stillbirth]. After adjustments, the prevalence of serious adverse pregnancy outcomes was lower among the only IFNB-exposed compared with the MSDMD-unexposed [relative risk 0.55, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.96]. The prevalence of individual outcomes, including MCA, spontaneous abortions, and stillbirths was not increased with IFNB exposure. Women with MS exposed to IFNB appeared more likely to terminate their pregnancy for reasons other than foetal anomaly, compared with MSDMD-unexposed pregnant MS patients (odds ratio 1.71, 95% CI 1.06–2.78).

Conclusion

In this large cohort study, no increase in the prevalence of adverse pregnancy outcomes was observed in women with MS exposed to IFNB compared with MS patients unexposed to any MSDMDs. This study together with other evidence led to a change in the labels of the IFNB products in September 2019 in the European Union, and IFNB use today may be considered during pregnancy, if clinically needed.
Access to Justice and the Legal Complex: Building a Public Defenders’ Office in Brazil
Authors: Nunes Rodrigo M.
Published: October 2020

Latin American democracies have developed institutions to empower citizens against the state. This article brings attention to an often overlooked, but key, actor in these processes: the legal complex. I argue that the content of reforms designed to strengthen the rule of law partially reflects the interests of politically influential collective legal actors. Political influence is defined as a function of alliances with civil society and embeddedness within decision-making arenas of the state. To develop this argument, the article analyses the slow building of Brazil’s Public Defenders’ Office (PDO). I argue that the office’s initial institutional weakness resulted from defenders’ fragile political position relative to that of prosecutors and the bar during Brazil’s constitutional transition. Its eventual strengthening sixteen years later resulted from changes to the legal complex alliance in its favour, the formation of connections between defenders and civil society, and increased PDO access to policymaking spaces.
Computer-Aided Fracture Size Measurement in Orbital Fractures—An Alternative to Manual Evaluation
Authors: Saloniemi Mikko , Lehtinen Valtteri , Snäll Johanna
Published: October 2020

Objective:

We aimed to present a novel semiautomated tool for orbital fracture size measurement and to compare the variability of the proposed method with traditional manual measurements.

Methods:

Maximal anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) dimensions of orbital fractures from computed tomography images were measured for 15 patients with unilateral orbital fractures by 2 surgeons manually and with a semiautomatic software. Variability was assessed with Bland-Altman limits of agreement plots and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Results:

The intra-observer ICCs in manual and automatic measurements were high, >0.9. The inter-observer ICCs in manual measurements were 0.926 (AP) and 0.631 (ML) and in automatic measurements 0.989 (AP) and 0.989 (ML). The ICCs for manual and semiautomated variability were 0.899 (AP) and 0.669 (ML). The differences were thus particularly pronounced in the ML dimensions. In addition, with the semiautomated technique, a total fracture area could be measured and compared with the total area of the bony orbit and a 3-dimensional reformatted image could be generated.

Conclusions:

Intra- and inter-observer variability proved to be very low for measuring fracture maximal AP length and ML width, making both the manual and the semiautomatic methods feasible clinically. The semiautomatic fracture size analysis allows better observer-independent repeatability for fracture size measurements and provides the possibility for total fracture area measurements at any orbital bony site, even in challenging nonplanar topography.
Recommending 1000 ppm fluoride toothpaste for caries prevention in children
Authors: Hu Shijia , Lai Wen Pui Bien , Lim Wanyi , Yee Ruixiang
Published: October 2020

The caries prevalence among Singapore children remains high, with almost 50% affected by the age of 6 years. Among oral hygiene homecare, toothpastes with a minimum fluoride concentration of 1000 ppm or greater have been shown to be more effective at preventing caries. Previous concerns with dental fluorosis have led to the marketing of non-fluoride and low-fluoride toothpastes specifically for children. In the local context, many parents start their children on these products due to ingestion concerns and recommendations of the product, rather than on sound advice from a healthcare professional. The latest recommendation is to use a smear size of 1000 ppm or greater fluoride toothpaste in children under 3 years of age with high caries risk. For children aged 3 years and older, a pea size of 1000 ppm or greater fluoride toothpaste should be used. As medical physicians are typically the first healthcare encounter for many children, they are well positioned to provide recommendations on the concentration and amount of fluoride toothpaste to be used in young children.
Association of plasma adiponectin with pulmonary hypertension, mortality and heart failure in African Americans: Jackson Heart Study
Authors: Lakshmanan Suvasini , Jankowich Matthew , Wu Wen‐Chih , Abbasi Siddique , Morrison Alan R , Choudhary Gaurav
Published: October 2020

Background

Adiponectin is a polypeptide hormone related to obesity, and a known modulator of pulmonary vascular remodeling. Association between plasma adiponectin levels and pulmonary hypertension (PH) has not been studied in African Americans (AAs) who are disproportionately affected by obesity. The relationship between adiponectin and heart failure (HF) and mortality, outcomes associated with PH, is unclear.

Methods

We performed cross‐sectional and longitudinal analysis to examine if there is an association between plasma adiponectin and PH and associated clinical outcomes, in participants of Jackson Heart Study (JHS). JHS is a prospective observational cohort study of heart disease in AAs from Jackson, Mississippi.

Results

Of the 3161 participants included in the study, mean age (SD) was 56.38 (12.61) years, 1028 were men (32.5%), and mean (SD) BMI was 31.42 (7.05) kg/m2. Median (IQR) adiponectin was 4516.82 (2799.32–7065.85) ng/mL. After adjusting for potential confounders including BMI, higher adiponectin levels were associated with increased odds of PH (adjusted odds ratio per log increment in adiponectin, (1.81; 95% CI, 1.41–2.32). High adiponectin levels were also associated with associated HF admissions (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] per log increment in adiponectin, 1.63, 95% CI, 1.24–2.14) and mortality (adjusted HR per log increment in adiponectin, 1.20; 95% CI 1.02–1.41).

Conclusions

Elevated plasma adiponectin levels are associated with PH, HF admissions and mortality risk in AAs. High adiponectin levels may help identify an at‐risk population that could be evaluated for targeted prevention and management strategies in future studies
Evaluation of code‐based algorithms to identify pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension patients in large administrative databases
Authors: Sprecher Viviane P. , Didden Eva‐Maria , Swerdel Joel N. , Muller Audrey
Published: October 2020

Large administrative healthcare (including insurance claims) databases are used for various retrospective real‐world evidence studies. However, in pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension, identifying patients retrospectively based on administrative codes remains challenging, as it relies on code combinations (algorithms) and the accuracy for patient identification of most of them is unknown. This study aimed to assess the performance of various algorithms in correctly identifying patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension in administrative databases. A systematic literature review was performed to find publications detailing code‐based algorithms used to identify pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension patients. PheValuator, a diagnostic predictive modelling tool, was applied to three US claims databases, yielding models that estimated the probability of a patient having the disease. These models were used to evaluate the performance characteristics of selected pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension algorithms. With increasing algorithm complexity, average positive predictive value increased (pulmonary arterial hypertension: 13.4–66.0%; chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: 10.3–75.1%) and average sensitivity decreased (pulmonary arterial hypertension: 61.5–2.7%; chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: 20.7–0.2%). Specificities and negative predictive values were high (≥97.5%) for all algorithms. Several of the algorithms performed well overall when considering all of these four performance parameters, and all algorithms performed with similar accuracy across the three claims databases studied, even though most were designed for patient identification in a specific database. Therefore, it is the objective of a study that will determine which algorithm may be most suitable; one‐ or two‐component algorithms are most inclusive and three‐ or four‐component algorithms identify most precise pulmonary arterial hypertension or chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension populations, respectively.
Mental and self-rated health of bakery workers in Lebanon: A national study
Authors: Habib Rima R , El-Haddad Nataly W , Elzein Kareem , Hojeij Safa
Published: October 2020

Objectives:

The relationship between poverty and health has been well addressed in public health research. The health effects of social and economic inequalities on working groups have also drawn the attention of occupational health scholars. Research addressing workers in low-paying jobs showed increased risks for poor health. This research examined the psychosocial factors associated with poor mental health and self-rated health among low-income bakery workers performing demanding tasks.

Methods:

Face-to-face interviews in 504 randomly selected bakeries in Lebanon provided data on socio-demographics, perception of the workplace environment, job security, job satisfaction, general health, and mental health.

Results:

In total, 16.5% of bakery workers reported poor self-rated health, and 45% reported poor mental health. Workers with a chronic illness were almost three times more likely to report poor self-rated health (OR = 2.86; 95% CI = 1.44–5.67), and those with musculoskeletal pain reported poor self-rated health five times as often (OR = 5.34; 95% CI = 2.9–9.80). Those with a chronic illness and musculoskeletal pain were twice as likely to report poor mental health (OR = 1.94; 95% CI = 1.07–3.50 and OR = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.32–3.23, respectively); and those dissatisfied with their job reported poorer self-rated health (OR = 2.18; 95% CI = 1.12–4.23) and mental health (OR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.54–4.26). In addition, workers reporting job insecurity had poor mental health twice as often (OR = 1.93; 95% CI = 1.24–2.99). Low socioeconomic indicators showed a gradient association with both poor self-rated health and mental health.

Conclusion:

Reporting job dissatisfaction and insecurity, musculoskeletal pain, and chronic illness were associated with poor mental and self-rated health among bakery workers. Interventions to improve the working conditions of bakery workers are timely and essential. This research provided evidence for policy to guide occupational health practice and safeguard the health of bakery workers.
Nasal spindle cell tumor with rhabdomyoblastic features: A rare and diagnostically difficult case
Authors: Mizutani Kenichi , Kumagai Motona , Aikawa Akane , Terahata Shintaro , Ishizawa Shin , Minato Hiroshi , Nojima Takayuki , Yamada Sohsuke
Published: October 2020

Nasal spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma is very rare. The tumor is sometimes confused with other spindle cell tumors. We herein report a case of nasal spindle cell tumor in a 62-year-old woman. The patient first presented herself to a medical doctor’s office after an episode of left epistaxis. An intranasal tumor was found and resected. The tumor was composed of spindle cells, and she was diagnosed with desmoid-type fibromatosis. Five years after the initial episode, an intranasal tumor was found again. The tumor showed a fascicular growth pattern with high cellularity and was predominantly composed of spindle cells. Scattered eosinophilic rhabdomyoblasts were also observed. She was diagnosed with spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma. This is a unique case report not only because nasal spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma is very rare but also because the tumor was initially diagnosed as desmoid-type fibromatosis. It is important to consider spindle cell rhabdomyosarcoma as a differential diagnosis of nasal spindle cell tumors.
Survival analysis of patients with medium and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma treated by TACE combined with Endostar
Authors: Qi Xiu-Heng , Wu Zhen-Ming , Liu Qi , Guo Qian , Wang Ling-Ling , Wang Shuai-Bing
Published: October 2020

To explore the effects of two different administration routes of Endostar on the survival of patients with medium and advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and underwent trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Seventy-two patients with medium and advanced HCC were enrolled. Among them, 42 patients underwent the hepatic arterial infusion of Endostar combined with TACE (infusion therapy group); and the remaining 30 patients underwent the hepatic treatment of TACE combined with the intravenous application of Endostar (intravenous therapy group). All patients underwent regular examinations of CT (or MRI) and DSA to observe the conditions of tumor recurrence or metastasis, and to determine the existence of tumor angiogenesis. The response rate of treatment in the Endostar hepatic arterial infusion group was higher than that in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (31/42:14/30, X2 = 5.501, p < 0.05). In addition, median progression free-survival time of the two groups were 8.67 months and 6.67 months, respectively ( p = 0.046); and the difference was statistically significant. The hepatic arterial infusion of Endostar combined with TACE can significantly improve recent clinical efficacy and mPFS in the treatment of medium and advanced HCC. However, improvement on the overall survival of long-term efficacy is not significant.
‘Hand on hip’ sign: A novel screening test and diagnostic tool in piriformis syndrome
Authors: Sadiq Mohammed , Hussain Syed Azher , Meganath P
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Currently there is no gold standard clinical test or investigation available to diagnose piriformis syndrome. We have found a pose used by the patients to describe the pain in the gluteal region in cases of suspected piriformis syndrome. This pose in our study has been described as ‘hand on hip sign’ (HHS). In this study, we aim to assess the significance of this sign in screening of patients with piriformis syndrome.

Materials and methods:

Seventy patients presenting with pain in the gluteal region with radiculopathy between the age group of 18 years and 60 years were included. All patients were asked to locate the site of the pain in the gluteal region. The demonstration of pain by the patients was noted. If the description matched the description of HHS, it was considered to be positive, else it was considered negative. All patients were subjected to four piriformis-specific confirmatory clinical tests. Considering that there is no single confirmatory test, any patient in whom any two piriformis-specific signs were elicited was considered as a case of piriformis syndrome. Using the data, sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative likelihood ratio of the HHS in the diagnosis of piriformis syndrome were calculated. Inter-test comparison was also made using Cohen’s kappa statistic.

Results:

HHS was found to have a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 75%. It also has a high positive predictive value of 94% and a positive likelihood ratio of 3.44. Inter-test reliability comparison showed that there was a fair to moderate agreement between HHS and other confirmatory piriformis-specific tests.

Conclusion:

HHS serves as an effective screening test in the identification of piriformis syndrome.
Digitalization and the Indian Textiles Sector: A Critical Analysis
Authors: Kanupriya
Published: October 2020

This article discusses and analyses the complex relationship between digitalization and the Indian textile industry. It is found that the process of digitalization has both positive and negative impacts on the sector, in terms of its opportunities and supposed challenges. To effectively meet the challenges and convert these into opportunities, it is proposed that certain measures be taken of the likes of protecting the jobs of the poor and imparting adequate digital skills to the textiles workforce. To make the digital economy a success and not a disaster, it is imperative that digitalization be supported by an effective information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, involving both the state efforts and individual initiative. A visionary and practical approach to the issue of digitalization shall render not only the industry but also the economy in an advantageous position, given the pre-eminence of the digital technologies in the world today. In sum, running away from the process of digitalization may be the last thing any industry could manage to do; only embracing it intelligently would be useful for the sector as well as for its stakeholders—managers, employees and the entire Indian economy.
Changing Boundaries of Whiteness? Demographic and Social Determinants of Middle Eastern and North African Marriage Trends in the United States
Authors: Bakhtiari Elyas , Sohoni Deenesh
Published: October 2020

Intermarriage is an important indicator of immigrant integration trajectories and the rigidity of ethnoracial boundaries. Although questions of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) integration and social exclusion occupy a central place in public discourse, little is known about their marriage patterns. The authors use the 2017 American Community Survey to estimate patterns of coethnic, panethnic, and intergroup marriages for MENA populations. Compared with other immigrant groups, rates of intermarriage are relatively high, and there is little evidence of “panethnic” patterns of marriage. However, more recent marriages have become less exogamous. Hierarchical age-period-cohort models suggest that this is driven by changing patterns among more recent cohorts, with some evidence of a post-2001 period effect among men. Compositional changes in the country of origin account for some, but not all, of these cohort effects. The findings highlight the importance of further research on MENA Americans to understand their unique social experiences of the U.S. ethnoracial hierarchy, particularly in the context of increasing racialized anti-Arab and anti-Muslim discrimination after 2001.
Perception of Protective Stabilization by Pediatric Dentists: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Marty M. , Marquet A. , Valéra M.C.
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Pediatric dentists sometimes have to care for children who refuse to cooperate with the oral examination or dental treatment. Behavior management strategies are used, such as “tell-show-do,” distraction, and positive reinforcement. Anxiety management can also be performed by the use of conscious sedation (oral premedication, nitrous oxide/oxygen inhalation). Unfortunately, these techniques are sometimes insufficient for providing oral care, and protective stabilization may be an option in some situations. Little is known on the impact of physical restraint and how practitioners feel about it. The objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of dentists using protective stabilization for dental care in children.

Methods:

Semistructured qualitative interviews on the perception of pediatric dentists concerning protective stabilization were conducted in the pediatric dentistry department of the University Hospital of Toulouse, France. A thematic analysis of interview transcripts was provided via NVivo software.

Results:

This analysis highlighted 3 main themes. First, the perceptions of dentists concerning protective stabilization showed that this procedure has a major psychological impact and led to a feeling of professional failure. Second, the reasons for which the child was stabilized were described; these concerned the child (behavior, age, number of treatments) and the environment (the parents and the medical team). Finally, we detailed how dentists manage the effects of using of protective stabilization.

Conclusion:

Dental surgeons must balance their requirement to make concrete decisions regarding the provision of care with their personal convictions about protective stabilization. This study also shows the need for specific training on this subject, as well as the desire of certain dentists that public authorities implement legislation on this matter.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

The findings of this study will improve the management of young patients by identifying situations where protective stabilization may be useful (age of the child, diagnosis, protection of the child or the medical team), while showing its psychological impact on practitioners. Finally, this work provides a basis for decision makers to propose a framework for the use of physical restraint.
Gamification in human resource management—Status quo and quo vadis
Authors: Murawski Lena
Published: October 2020

Gamification has recently been presented as a promising opportunity to improve human resource management (HRM) practices and tools. However, while the number of publications on gamification has been increasing in recent years, an overview of the current landscape of HRM-related literature of gamification is missing so far. Intending to support and ease the understanding of prior research findings in this field, this article conducts a systematic literature review. This study contributes to the field of human resources research by examining 45 research papers, aiming to explore areas of application and outcomes of the use of gamification in HRM. Propositions are outlined along with elaborating risks and approaches on how to mitigate the risks of using game design elements in HRM.
Clinical and vascular responses to propranolol and candesartan in migraine patients: A randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Barzenje Aros Dlawer , Gjesdal Knut , Winsvold Bendik Slagsvold , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Stovner Lars Jacob , Gravdahl Gøril Bruvik , Nilsen Kristian Bernhard
Published: October 2020

Background:

Both propranolol and candesartan are prophylactic drugs for migraine, but with unknown mechanisms of action. The objectives of the present study were to investigate these drugs’ effects on arterial wall dynamics and the potential relation between their vascular and clinical effect.

Methods:

The study was based on data from a previously published randomized, placebo-controlled, triple-blinded, double crossover clinical trial comparing the prophylactic effects of candesartan and propranolol in 72 patients. Finapres noninvasive blood pressure curves were analyzed. On the descending limb of the pulse curve, a notch is produced by pulse wave reflection, and its relative height compared to the top of the curve (the notch ratio) was used as a marker of arterial wall stiffness.

Results:

Candesartan decreased the notch ratio from baseline ( p = 0.005), reflecting more compliant arteries and vasodilation, whereas propranolol increased the notch ratio ( p = 0.005), reflecting less compliant arteries and vasoconstriction. There was no difference in baseline notch ratio between clinical responders and nonresponders.

Conclusion:

The drugs are both efficient prophylactic medications, yet they have opposite effects on arterial wall dynamics. This suggests that drug effects other than those on arterial compliance must be responsible for their prophylactic effect in migraine.
Mentor Identification, Selection, Preparation, and Development: A Literature Review
Authors: Weimer Kristina R.
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this literature review was to examine education research on mentor identification, selection, preparation, and ongoing development. I organized the review in three main sections: (a) criteria for mentor identification and selection, (b) mentor preparation and development practices and processes, and (c) implications for music education. Potential mentors must possess a variety of professional and personal skills to effectively navigate their role and should be selected via a clearly defined and rigorous selection process. Sufficient preparation can increase mentor satisfaction, confidence, effectiveness, self-efficacy, and help enhance novice teacher effectiveness. The preparation and development process should be personalized and flexible, providing mentors a variety of materials and resources along with plentiful opportunities to reflect and interact with each other to share ideas, strategies, successes, and challenges.
MYD88 L265P elicits mutation-specific ubiquitination to drive NF-κB activation and lymphomagenesis
Authors: Yu Xinfang , Li Wei , Deng Qipan , Liu Haidan , Wang Xu , Hu Hui , Cao Ya , Xu-Monette Zijun Y. , Li Ling , Zhang Mingzhi , Lu Zhongxin , Young Ken H. , Li Yong
Published: October 2020

Myeloid differentiation primary response protein 88 (MYD88) is a critical universal adapter that transduces signaling from Toll-like and interleukin receptors to downstream nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). MYD88L265P (leucine changed to proline at position 265) is a gain-of-function mutation that occurs frequently in B-cell malignancies such as Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia. In this study, E3 ligase RING finger protein family 138 (RNF138) catalyzed K63-linked nonproteolytic polyubiquitination of MYD88L265P, resulting in enhanced recruitment of interleukin-1 receptor–associated kinases and elevated NF-κB activation. However, RNF138 had little effect on wild-type MYD88 (MYD88WT). With either RNF138 knockdown or mutation on MYD88 ubiquitination sites, MYD88L265P did not constitutively activate NF-κB. A20, a negative regulator of NF-κB signaling, mediated K48-linked polyubiquitination of RNF138 for proteasomal degradation. Depletion of A20 further augmented MYD88L265P-mediated NF-κB activation and lymphoma growth. Furthermore, A20 expression correlated negatively with RNF138 expression and NF-κB activation in lymphomas with MYD88L265P and in those without. Strikingly, RNF138 expression correlated positively with NF-κB activation in lymphomas with MYD88L265P, but not in those without it. Our study revealed a novel mutation-specific biochemical reaction that drives B-cell oncogenesis, providing a therapeutic opportunity for targeting oncogenic MYD88L265P, while sparing MYD88WT, which is critical to innate immunity.
Acute primary repair of extraarticular ligaments and staged surgery in multiple ligament knee injuries
Authors: Ishibashi Yasuyuki , Kimura Yuka , Sasaki Eiji , Sasaki Shizuka , Yamamoto Yuji , Tsuda Eiichi
Published: October 2020

Background

The purpose of this study is to compare the outcomes of acute primary repair of extraarticular ligaments with staged surgery for acute knee dislocations (KDs) and multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs).

Materials and methods

Between January 2005 and May 2018, 61 consecutive patients diagnosed with MLKI or KD were referred to or visited our institution. Of these, 31 patients who underwent acute repair of extraarticular ligaments within 3 weeks of injury were included in this study. These patients were retrospectively classified into two groups: those who underwent only primary repair (repair group) and those who underwent staged reconstructive surgery (staged group). Follow-up examination included range of motion (ROM), knee joint stability (Lachman test, posterior drawer test, and varus and valgus stress test), Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity scale, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis and Outcome Score (KOOS).

Results

Twelve of the 31 patients did not need or desire further surgery and were included in the repair group. No significant difference was observed in demographic data between the repair and staged groups. Although staged surgery decreased positive posterior drawer test results, no significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding ROM, other knee joint stability tests, Lysholm scores, Tegner scale, or KOOS.

Conclusions

In this series, all patients returned to their activities of daily living and preinjury occupation levels. Acute primary repair of extraarticular ligaments provides essential knee stability without varus/valgus instability and may reduce the need for subsequent cruciate ligament reconstruction.

Level of evidence

Level IV, retrospective observational study.
Upregulation of miR-361-3p suppresses serotonin-induced proliferation in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells by targeting SERT
Authors: Zhang Ying , Chen Yongbin , Chen Guo , Zhou Yingling , Yao Hua , Tan Hong
Published: October 2020

Background

Abnormal proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) is a key mechanism in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) can induce abnormal proliferation of PASMCs. The role of miR-361-3p in serotonin-induced abnormal PASMCs proliferation remains unclear.

Methods

The miR-361-3p level was analyzed in plasma from PAH patients and normal controls and in human PASMCs (hPASMCs) using RT-PCR. The hPASMCs were transfected with an miR-361-3p mimic and then treated with serotonin. Untransfected hPASMCs were used as the control. Cell proliferation was evaluated using an MTS assay and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining. The cell cycle stages were evaluated using flow cytometry. The association between miR-361-3p and serotonin transporter (SERT) was determined using a luciferase reporter assay and anti-AGO2 RNA immunoprecipitation assay. The protein expression was evaluated via western blotting.

Results

The miR-361-3p level was lower in plasma from PAH patients than in plasma from the any of the normal control subjects. The mean pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary vascular resistance index were higher in PAH patients whose miR-361-3p level was lower than the median value for patients than in those whose miR-361-3p level was higher than the median. Serotonin treatment reduced miR-361-3p expression in the hPASMCs. MiR-361-3p overexpression suppressed cell proliferation, promoted apoptosis, induced G1 arrest, and decreased the phosphorylation level of ERK1/2 in serotonin-treated hPASMCs. SERT was identified as an miR-361-3p target. Its overexpression alleviated the effect of miR-361-3p overexpression on serotonin-induced hPASMC proliferation and upregulation of phosphorylated ERK1/2.

Conclusions

The miR-361-3p level is lower in the plasma of PAH patients. Upregulation of miR-361-3p suppresses serotonin-induced proliferation of hPASMCs by targeting SERT. Our results suggest that miR-361-3p is a potential therapeutic target in PAH.