bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Use of Ibandronate and Eldecalcitol in Postmenopausal Japanese Women with Osteoporosis
Authors: Takada Junichi , Wada Hiroshi , Iba Kousuke , Sasaki Kouichi , Dohke Takayuki , Kanaya Kumiko , Yoshizaki Takashi , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: January 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of combined use of ibandronate and eldecalcitol for 6 to 12 months on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone strength of the proximal femur in postmenopausal Japanese women with osteoporosis.

Methods

BMD and bone strength of the proximal femur were evaluated in 78 postmenopausal women (mean age, 73.6 years) who underwent treatment for osteoporosis with combined use of ibandronate and eldecalcitol for at least 6 months. BMD was measured at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at baseline and every 6 months thereafter. Hip structure analysis of the narrow neck and intertrochanter was performed by a radiologist using DXA images.

Results

Respectively for the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and total hip, BMD significantly increased (from baseline) by 4.54%, 2.31%, and 1.56% at 6 months and by 5.92%, 3.02%, and 2.70% at 12 months. In hip structure analysis, most parameters improved significantly. Respectively for the narrow neck and intertrochanter, BMD significantly increased (from baseline) by 2.37% and 2.71% at 6 months and by 3.46% and 3.52% at 12 months; cross-sectional area significantly increased by 1.83% and 3.39% at 6 months and by 2.91% and 3.46% at 12 months; section modulus significantly increased by 2.42% and 4.11% at 6 months and by 4.84% and 3.26% at 12 months; cortical thickness significantly increased by 2.49% and 3.33% at 6 months and by 3.73% and 3.37% at 12 months; and buckling ratio significantly decreased by 2.97% and 2.57% at 6 months and by 3.86% and 2.99% at 12 months.

Conclusion

Combined use of ibandronate and eldecalcitol for 6 months significantly improved bone strength of the proximal femur in postmenopausal Japanese women with osteoporosis.
Review Article: Osteophytes
Authors: Wong Siu Him Janus , Chiu Kwong Yuen , Yan Chun Hoi
Published: January 2017

An osteophyte is a fibrocartilage-capped bony outgrowth that is one of the features of osteoarthritis. This study reviewed the types, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and medical and surgical treatment of osteophytes. Extraspinal osteophytes are classified as marginal, central, periosteal, or capsular, whereas vertebral osteophytes are classified as traction or claw. Risk factors for development of osteophytes include age, body mass index, physical activity, and other genetic and environmental factors. Transforming growth factor β plays a role in the pathophysiology of osteophyte formation. Osteophytes can cause pain, limit range of motion, affect quality of life, and cause multiple symptoms at the spine. Medical treatment involves the use of bisphosphonates and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Surgical treatment in the form of cheilectomy for impingement syndromes during joint replacement is recommended.
Review Article: Operative versus Non-Operative Treatment for Displaced Intra-Articular Calcaneal Fracture: A Meta-Analysis of Randomised Controlled Trials
Authors: Meena Sanjay , Gangary Shreesh Kumar , Sharma Pankaj
Published: January 2017

We reviewed 8 randomised controlled trials that compared operative and non-operative treatment for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. Patients with operative treatment were more likely to resume pre-injury work (relative risk [RR]=0.60, p=0.04), had fewer problems when wearing shoes (RR=0.42, p=0.0004), and had a higher physical component summary score of SF-36 (difference in means=6.75, p<0.0001) but a higher complication rate (RR=1.74, p=0.0005).
Arthroscopic Fixation with EndoButton for Tibial Eminence Fractures Visualised through a Proximal Superomedial Portal: A Surgical Technique
Authors: Sekiya Hitoshi , Takatoku Kenzo , Kimura Akinori , Kanaya Yuji , Fukushima Takashi , Takeshita Katsushi
Published: January 2017

Most tibial eminence fractures are avulsion fractures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) from its tibial insertion. This study describes a new arthroscopic technique using an additional proximal superomedial portal to visualise the tibial eminence fracture and to fix the fracture with the EndoButton to avoid the risk of fragment breakage. The proximal superomedial portal enables fracture reduction without damage to the intermeniscal ligament. Fixation with the EndoButton is strong enough to allow early rehabilitation with vigorous exercise. All 5 patients achieved bone union; no young patient had growth disturbance of the tibia; all knees were stable with excellent range of motion and negative Lachman and pivot shift tests and no flexion contracture. Arthroscopic fixation with the EndoButton visualised through the proximal superomedial portal is a safe, simple, and secure method for treating tibial eminence fractures, particularly in children with small fragments.
Beyond the status quo – setting the agenda for effective change
Authors: Morrison Allan R
Published: January 2017

In today’s competitive and rapidly evolving educational environment, the ability to implement appropriate and effective change is of critical importance to an international school’s ongoing success. This study examines leadership characteristics and styles that support the development and forward momentum of a change agenda within the context of an international school environment. Results from a mixed methods research design found that the leadership characteristics most frequently linked to effective change included: (i) being visionary; (ii) being committed to school/staff; and (iii) creating a collegial/supportive work environment. The paper analyzes these and other results through the lenses of: (i) setting directions; (ii) developing people; and (iii) developing the organization. Findings specific to the international school situation are also presented. Finally, suggestions for developing a framework for an international school ‘change management’ paradigm are presented.
Glial activation in the collagenase model of nociception associated with osteoarthritis
Authors: Adães Sara , Almeida Lígia , Potes Catarina S , Ferreira Ana Rita , Castro-Lopes José M , Ferreira-Gomes Joana , Neto Fani L
Published: January 2017

Background

Experimental osteoarthritis entails neuropathic-like changes in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons. Since glial activation has emerged as a key player in nociception, being reported in numerous models of neuropathic pain, we aimed at evaluating if glial cell activation may also occur in the DRG and spinal cord of rats with osteoarthritis induced by intra-articular injection of collagenase.

Methods

Osteoarthritis was induced by two injections, separated by three days, of 500 U of type II collagenase into the knee joint of rats. Movement-induced nociception was evaluated by the Knee-Bend and CatWalk tests during the following six weeks. Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression in satellite glial cells of the DRG was assessed by immunofluorescence and Western Blot analysis; the pattern of GFAP and activating transcription factor-3 (ATF-3) expression was also compared through double immunofluorescence analysis. GFAP expression in astrocytes and IBA-1 expression in microglia of the L3–L5 spinal cord segments was assessed by immunohistochemistry and Western Blot analysis. The effect of the intrathecal administration of fluorocitrate, an inhibitor of glial activation, on movement-induced nociception was evaluated six weeks after the first collagenase injection.

Results

GFAP expression in satellite glial cells of collagenase-injected animals was significantly increased six weeks after osteoarthritis induction. Double immunofluorescence showed GFAP upregulation in satellite glial cells surrounding ATF-3-positive neurons. In the spinal cord of collagenase-injected animals, an ipsilateral upregulation of GFAP and IBA-1 was also observed. The inhibition of glial activation with fluorocitrate decreased movement- and loading-induced nociception.

Conclusion

Collagenase-induced knee osteoarthritis leads to the development of nociception associated with movement of the affected joint and to the activation of glial cells in both the DRG and the spinal cord. Inhibition of glial cell activation by fluorocitrate decreases these osteoarthritis-associated nociceptive behaviours. These results suggest that glial cell activation may play a role in the development of chronic pain in this experimental model of osteoarthritis.
A guide to breast implants for the non-breast specialist
Authors: Harvey Kate L. , Clark Sarah E.
Published: January 2017

Breast augmentation is an increasingly popular cosmetic surgery procedure, and breast implants can also be used in reconstructive surgery following mastectomy. Problematic breast implants can present to any discipline of medicine, most frequently to primary care or acute service such as emergency medicine. This guide aims to inform the non-breast specialist in how to assess and treat common problems and when referral to specialist services is necessary.
Monitoring training loads, mood states, and jump performance over two periodized training mesocycles in elite young volleyball players
Authors: Aoki Marcelo S , Arruda Ademir FS , Freitas Camila G , Miloski Bernardo , Marcelino Pablo R , Drago Gustavo , Drago Murilo , Moreira Alexandre
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to verify the effect of the periodized training program on internal training load, mood states, and vertical jump capacity of young volleyball players. Internal training load was measured using the session rating of perceived exertion (session-RPE) method. To assess mood states, the profile of mood states questionnaire was completed once a week. The vertical jump tests were performed before and after training period. The main findings were (1) the internal training load was greater during the preparatory mesocycle than during the competitive mesocycle, for both U16 and U19 groups; (2) the U19 completed a higher training load during preparatory mesocycle than U16; (3) despite the differences in the periodized training program, the U16 group presented a higher value for the total mood disturbance and for the subscales, tension, depression, anger, and fatigue; and (4) the vertical jump performance increased from the beginning to the end of the nine-week training period for U16 and U19 groups.
Statistical dependency analysis of multiple competing failure causes of fuel cell engines
Authors: Chen Tie , Zheng Songlin , Feng Jinzhi
Published: January 2017

Given the current strict regulations on fuel emissions, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles have been considered as ideal non-polluting vehicles. As the kernel subsystem of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, the fuel cell engine, which is a complex system, may fail because of multiple competing failure causes. In fuel cell engine reliability engineering, discriminating and measuring dependency among multiple failure causes is an urgent problem that should be addressed. This study proposes a statistical dependency analysis model under competing risks based on reliability field data of fuel cell engines. The multivariate lognormal distribution is employed to model joint failure distribution. Then, using simulated annealing algorithm to estimate the parameters of the conditional probability likelihood function. Moreover, p-value hypothesis test procedures are developed to determine the significance of the dependence degree among multiple competing failure causes. In this article, the failure mechanisms of fuel cell engine are comprehensively discussed to prove the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. Results can provide technical support for studies on optimal maintenance strategies.
A novel analysis method for fault diagnosis of hydro-turbine governing system
Authors: Xia Xin , Ni Wei , Sang Yingjun
Published: January 2017

The fault diagnosis of hydro-turbine governing system is important to the operation of the hydropower station and the stability of the power grid. In order to improve the diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, a novel fault diagnosis method based on nonlinear output frequency response functions and a novel identification method of nonlinear output frequency response functions have been proposed and applied to the problem of hydro-turbine governing system fault diagnostics. First, the nonlinear model of hydro-turbine governing system is built. And the fault diagnosis principles based on nonlinear output frequency response functions are also introduced. Then, the disadvantages of the traditional identification method are discussed, and a novel identification method is proposed for nonlinear output frequency response functions according to the operation characteristic of hydro-turbine governing system. Finally, simulation verification and experimental studies have been presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed fault diagnosis method. The results indicate that the proposed method is simple and practical for fault diagnosis of hydro-turbine governing system.
Cultural values adapted to individualism–collectivism in advertising in Western Europe: An experimental and meta-analytical approach
Authors: Hornikx Jos , de Groot Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

In international communication, adaptation of messages to the audience’s values has been prominently studied. In advertising, a meta-analysis of experimental studies showed that ads with culturally adapted value appeals are generally more persuasive and better liked than ads with culturally unadapted value appeals. This general effect was not observed for studies with Western Europeans. One explanation may be that these studies did not examine individualism–collectivism, whereas adaptation to this dimension has been shown to be very successful. In this article, this explanation was tested. Six experiments were conducted in which participants from Belgium, the UK or the Netherlands judged an ad with an adapted, individualistic appeal or with an unadapted, collectivistic appeal. The experiments and a subsequent meta-analysis indicate that Western Europeans are not more persuaded by the culturally adapted than by the culturally unadapted value appeals based on individualism–collectivism. This result nuances earlier findings underlining the importance of cultural value adaptation.
Prevalence and incidence of doctor-diagnosed Dupuytren’s disease: a population-based study
Authors: Nordenskjöld J. , Englund M. , Zhou C. , Atroshi I.
Published: January 2017

The prevalence and incidence of doctor-diagnosed Dupuytren’s disease in the general population is unknown. From the healthcare register for Skåne region (population 1.3 million) in southern Sweden, we identified all residents aged ⩾20 years (on 31 December 2013), who 1998 to 2013 had consulted a doctor and received the diagnosis Dupuytren’s disease (International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision code M720). During the 16 years, 7207 current residents (72% men) had been diagnosed with Dupuytren’s disease; the prevalence among men was 1.35% and among women 0.5%. Of all people diagnosed, 56% had received treatment (87% fasciectomy). In 2013, the incidence of first-time doctor-diagnosed Dupuytren’s disease among men was 14 and among women five per 10,000. The annual incidence among men aged ⩾50 years was 27 per 10,000. Clinically important Dupuytren’s disease is common in the general population.

Level of evidence: III
Failure of an uncemented thumb carpometacarpal joint ceramic prosthesis
Authors: Kollig E. , Weber W. , Bieler D. , Franke A.
Published: January 2017

Thumb carpometacarpal joint replacement is associated with high rates of loosening and failure. We present our results for an uncemented ceramic–ceramic total joint prosthesis with a reverse ball-and-socket design and bioactive coating. Between 2008 and 2012, 29 prostheses were inserted into 28 patients (mean age 63 years) with advanced osteoarthritis. After a mean period of 33 months (range 9–62), 26 patients (27 implants) were available for follow-up. Six months postoperatively, 50% of the patients had radiological evidence of early loosening. Fifteen implants had been removed in 14 patients for aseptic loosening (13) or trapezium fracture (2). The 12 patients whose prosthesis was still in place had a mean visual analogue scale pain score of 1.9 (range 0–6) and a mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score of 23 (range 0–73.3). Eleven patients were satisfied with the procedure. The rate of early aseptic failure was unacceptably high.

Level of evidence: IV
Heterogeneity of macrophages in canine histiocytic ulcerative colitis
Authors: Nolte Anna , Junginger Johannes , Baum Berit , Hewicker-Trautwein Marion
Published: January 2017

Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC) is a chronic enteropathy which most notably occurs in Boxer dogs and French bulldogs. The inflamed mucosa is hallmarked by large, foamy, periodic acid–Schiff (PAS)-positive macrophages infiltrating the colonic mucosa. As little is known about their origin and phenotype, an immunohistochemical study was performed using different macrophage markers. Generally, canine colonic macrophages showed high expression of ionised calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 and MHC class II. In canine HUC, macrophages revealed up-regulation of lysozyme and L1 Ag but decreased CD163 expression compared with controls, suggesting them to be pro-inflammatory cells, whereas the healthy colonic mucosa was characterised by an anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype. In addition, PAS reaction was used to discriminate macrophage subpopulations. PAS– macrophages displayed higher expression of L1 Ag and CD64, whereas PAS+ cells, which were only present in HUC patients, were characterised by increased expression of lysozyme, inducible nitric oxide synthase and CD204. This indicates PAS+ cells to be mature macrophages contributing to the inflammatory process, which are most likely maintained by differentiation of immature PAS– macrophages continuously recruited from blood monocytes. In summary, macrophage heterogeneity in canine HUC probably illustrates their different maturation states and functions compared with the healthy animals.
Assessment of achieved systolic blood pressure in newly treated hypertensive patients aged 60–79 years before and after Eighth Joint National Committee recommendations
Authors: Kelly Michael S. , Saseen Joseph J. , Marrs Joel C.
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To determine whether patients who were newly prescribed antihypertensive therapy after the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8) update were treated to a relaxed systolic blood pressure (SBP) goal compared with patients treated before the update.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study approved by the Colorado Multiple Institutional Review Board. Patients aged 60–79 years, without diabetes or chronic kidney disease (CKD), newly treated for hypertension at a University of Colorado primary care clinics were included. The mean first-achieved and last-stable SBPs of patients newly prescribed antihypertensive medications from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 31 2013 (before cohort) were compared with patients newly prescribed antihypertensive therapy from 1 January 2014 to 1 October 2015 (after cohort). The mean number of antihypertensive medications at first-achieved SBP, the time to first-achieved SBP, and the class of initial antihypertensive medications were also evaluated.

Results:

A total of 128 patients were included, 64 patients in each cohort. The coprimary outcome of first-achieved mean SBP did not differ between the groups (131.3 mmHg versus 130.2 mmHg; p = 0.65). Last-stable mean SBP values were also similar between the groups (130.2 mmHg versus 129.5 mmHg; p = 0.74). Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) were the most frequently initiated antihypertensive agent in both cohorts (43.8% versus 48.4%; p = 0.72).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that the JNC 8 recommendations did not alter SBP goals among patients aged 60–79 years newly treated for hypertension at University of Colorado primary care clinics.
Quantification of the articular view of the elbow afforded by standard portals using 30° arthroscopy
Authors: Moverley Robert , Colaco Henry B. , Rudran Bran , Szarko Matthew , Arnander Magnus , Tennent Duncan
Published: January 2017

Background

The present study quantifies the field of view (FOV) from standard arthroscopy portals and aims to identify anatomical regions where the FOV is limited.

Methods

Eleven cadaveric elbows were examined through standard anteromedial, anterolateral and posterior portals. The FOV was marked with dye using a spinal needle. The articular surfaces were then exposed and the percentage FOV seen was calculated. FOV percentage areas were compared using a Student’s t-test (JMP, version 10, SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The mean (SD) FOV percentage area seen from the anteromedial portal and anterolateral portal was 91.69% (3.63%) and 92.03% (3.93%), respectively, for the anterior humerus articular surface. There was no significant difference in the mean FOV percentage area seen from the anteromedial and anterolateral portals ( p = 0.99). The mean (SD) FOV percentage area of the posterior humerus articular surface was 84.69% (2.28%). The mean (SD) FOV percentage area seen of the radial head and trochlear was 16.05% (2.66%) and 4.14% (1.76%), respectively.

Conclusions

The present study is the first to quantify the FOV of elbow arthroscopy. The majority of the anterior and posterior humerus articular surface can be seen through standard portals. The limitations in FOV are primarily confined to the radial head and trochlear notch.
Apremilast in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis: a perspective review
Authors: Reed Michael , Crosbie David
Published: January 2017

Apremilast is an orally-active small molecule which inhibits phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4). Clinical trials have demonstrated its efficacy and safety in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and psoriasis. Established therapeutic options have variable effectiveness across the different domains of psoriatic disease. Whilst biologic therapies have proven to be of significant benefit to many patients, not all patients respond, and others are not eligible or do not tolerate biologic therapy. We review the mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics and clinical trial data with regards to both efficacy and safety for apremilast and consider where this new treatment may be positioned in the treatment of PsA.
ICD-10 Mortality Coding and the NEIS: A Comparative Study
Authors: Daking Leanne , Dodds Leonie
Published: January 2017

The collection and utilisation of mortality data are often hindered by limited access to contextual details of the circumstances surrounding fatal incidents. The National Coroners Information System (NCIS) can provide researchers with access to such information. The NCIS search capabilities have been enhanced by the inclusion of data supplied by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), specifically the ICD-10 Cause of Death codeset. A comparative study was conducted to identify consistencies and differences between ABS ICD-10 codes and those that could be generated by utilising the full NCIS record. Discrepancies between the two sets of codes were detected in over 50% of cases, which highlighted the importance of access to complete and timely documentation in the assignment of accurate and detailed cause of death codes.
Ischaemic Heart Disease and Australian Immigrants: The Influence of Birthplace and Language Skills on Treatment and Use of Health Services
Authors: Renzaho André
Published: January 2017

Admission rates for ischaemic heart disease (IHD), and the use of invasive cardiovascular procedures, separation mode and length of stay (LOS) were compared between Australians from non-English speaking background (NESB; n=8627) and English speaking background (ESB; n=13162) aged 20 years and over admitted to Victorian urban public hospitals. The study covered the period from 1993 to 1998. It was found that, compared with their ESB counterparts, the incidence of admission for acute myocardial infarction was significantly higher for NESB men and women before and after controlling for confounding factors. The age-adjusted ratios for NESB women compared with their ESB counterparts ranged from 1.23 to 1.89 for cardiac catheterisation, from 0.23 to 0.27 for percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA), and from 1.04 to 1.80 for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Procedure rates were comparable in men for cardiac catheterisation and CABG but higher for PTA rates in NESB men (OR: 1.29, 95%CI: 1.11–1.50) than their ESB counterparts. Both NESB men (β=0.04, 95%CI:0.01–0.07) and women (β=0.03, 95%CI: 0.02–0.08) experienced significantly longer hospital stays than their ESB counterparts. These findings indicate there may be systematic differences in patients' treatment and service utilisation in Victorian public hospitals. The extent to which physicians' bias and patients' choice could explain these differences requires further investigation.
Macrohistory and Timing the Future as Practice
Authors: Inayatullah Sohail
Published: January 2017

This article is written in four parts. First, macrohistory as it relates to the study of the future is defined. Second, the role of macrohistory, or the timing of the future, is located in the “six pillars” approach to futures studies. Third, case studies of macrohistory as practice are presented. Finally, the article concludes with insights from the practice of using timing.
Comparisons of Daily Behavior Across 21 Countries
Authors: Baranski Erica N. , Gardiner Gwen , Guillaume Esther , Aveyard Mark , Bastian Brock , Bronin Igor , Ivanova Christina , Cheng Joey T. , Kock François S. de , Denissen Jaap J. A. , Gallardo-Pujol David , Halama Peter , Han Gyuseog Q. , Bae Jaechang , Moon Jungsoon , Hong Ryan Y. , Hřebíčková Martina , Graf Sylvie , Izdebski Paweł , Lundmann Lars , Penke Lars , Perugini Marco , Costantini Giulio , Rauthmann John , Ziegler Matthias , Realo Anu , Elme Liisalotte , Sato Tatsuya , Kawamoto Shizuka , Szarota Piotr , Tracy Jessica L. , Aken Marcel A. G. van , Yang Yu , Funder David C.
Published: January 2017

While a large body of research has investigated cultural differences in behavior, this typical study assesses a single behavioral outcome, in a single context, compared across two countries. The current study compared a broad array of behaviors across 21 countries ( N = 5,522). Participants described their behavior at 7:00 p.m. the previous evening using the 68 items of the Riverside Behavioral Q-sort (RBQ). Correlations between average patterns of behavior in each country ranged from r = .69 to r = .97 and, in general, described a positive and relaxed activity. The most similar patterns were United States/Canada and least similar were Japan/United Arab Emirates (UAE). Similarities in behavior within countries were largest in Spain and smallest in the UAE. Further analyses correlated average RBQ item placements in each country with, among others, country-level value dimensions, personality traits, self-esteem levels, economic output, and population. Extroversion, openness, neuroticism, conscientiousness, self-esteem, happiness, and tolerant attitudes yielded more significant correlations than expected by chance.
Analytic Thought Training Promotes Liberalism on Contextualized (But Not Stable) Political Opinions
Authors: Yilmaz Onurcan , Saribay S. Adil
Published: January 2017

Previous research revealed that inducing an intuitive thinking style led people to adopt more conservative social and economic attitudes. No prior study, however, has shown a causal effect of analytic cognitive style (ACS) on political conservatism. It is also not clear whether these cognitive-style manipulations influence stable or contextualized (less stable) political attitudes differentially. The current research investigated the causal effect of ACS on both stable and contextualized political opinions. In Experiment 1, we briefly trained participants to think analytically (or not) and assessed their contextualized and stable political attitudes. Those in the analytic thinking group responded more positively to liberal (but not conservative) arguments on contextualized opinions. However, no significant change occurred in stable opinions. In Experiment 2, we replicated this basic finding with a larger sample. Thus, the results demonstrate that inducing ACS causally influences contextualized liberal attitudes, but not stable ones.
Can Information Decrease Political Polarization? Evidence From the U.S. Taxpayer Receipt
Authors: Duhaime Erik P. , Apfelbaum Evan P.
Published: January 2017

Scholars, politicians, and laypeople alike bemoan the high level of political polarization in the United States, but little is known about how to bring the views of liberals and conservatives closer together. Previous research finds that providing people with information regarding a contentious issue is ineffective for reducing polarization because people process such information in a biased manner. Here, we show that information can reduce political polarization below baseline levels and also that its capacity to do so is sensitive to contextual factors that make one’s relevant preferences salient. Specifically, in a nationally representative sample (Study 1) and a preregistered replication (Study 2), we find that providing a taxpayer receipt—an impartial, objective breakdown of how one’s taxes are spent that is published annually by the White House—reduces polarization regarding taxes, but not when participants are also asked to indicate how they would prefer their taxes be spent.
Flibanserin for hypoactive sexual desire disorder: place in therapy
Authors: Gelman Faina , Atrio Jessica
Published: January 2017

The pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of female sexual interest in pre- and post-menopausal women present a complex arena for patients and physicians to navigate. Flibanserin was the first pharmacologic treatment, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in August 2015, for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. Side effects, contraindications and lack of approval in postmenopausal women are all limitations, as are issues surrounding patient and physician knowledge and access. Testosterone, buspirone, sildenafil, bupropion, bremelanotide, as well as herbal medications (Herbal vX or Tribulus terrestris) have demonstrated some clinical benefit in women with sexual dysfunction disorders however, trials have significant design, dosing or generalizability limitations. Nonpharmaceutical cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness meditation, pelvic floor therapy, and clitoral stimulators are also interventions women may pursue. This manuscript will explore the clinical data regarding these therapeutic modalities so as to bring attention to this issue of female HSDD, to offer an overview of current research, and to incite providers to initiate discussion among themselves and their patients.
Depth Perception and the History of Three-Dimensional Art: Who Produced the First Stereoscopic Images?
Authors: Brooks Kevin R.
Published: January 2017

The history of the expression of three-dimensional structure in art can be traced from the use of occlusion in Palaeolithic cave paintings, through the use of shadow in classical art, to the development of perspective during the Renaissance. However, the history of the use of stereoscopic techniques is controversial. Although the first undisputed stereoscopic images were presented by Wheatstone in 1838, it has been claimed that two sketches by Jacopo Chimenti da Empoli (c. 1600) can be to be fused to yield an impression of stereoscopic depth, while others suggest that Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa is the world’s first stereogram. Here, we report the first quantitative study of perceived depth in these works, in addition to more recent works by Salvador Dalí. To control for the contribution of monocular depth cues, ratings of the magnitude and coherence of depth were recorded for both stereoscopic and pseudoscopic presentations, with a genuine contribution of stereoscopic cues revealed by a difference between these scores. Although effects were clear for Wheatstone and Dalí’s images, no such effects could be found for works produced earlier. As such, we have no evidence to reject the conventional view that the first producer of stereoscopic imagery was Sir Charles Wheatstone.
Blood versus urine ketone monitoring in a pediatric cohort of patients with type 1 diabetes: a crossover study
Authors: Goffinet Line , Barrea Thierry , Beauloye Véronique , Lysy Philippe A.
Published: January 2017

Background:

The aim of our study was to determine the influence of routine ketone monitoring on hyperglycemic events (HE) and ketosis in youngsters with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods:

Our single-site, controlled and randomized study was conducted on children and adolescents with T1D outside of remission phase. During two crossover periods of 6 months, patients ( n = 22) experiencing HE tested ketones alternatively with a blood ketone meter or urine ketone test strips and gave their opinion on screening methods after completion of clinical trial. Moreover, we evaluated levels of awareness of ketone production in a series of 58 patients and sometimes parents via a multiple-choice questionnaire.

Results:

Based on self-monitoring data, patients experienced a mean of 4.8 HE/month (range 0–9.3). Patients performed accurate ketone tests more frequently during urine (46%) than during blood-testing (29%) periods ( p < 0.05); while globally, 50% of ketone tests were inaccurate (i.e. without HE). Ketosis occurred significantly more often during urine (46.4%) than during blood (14.8%) monitoring ( p = 0.01), although no episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) were noticed. Duration of hyperglycemia was not different whether patients measured ketones or not, suggesting that ketone monitoring did not affect correction of glycemia. Patients evaluated blood monitoring more frequently as being practical, reliable, and useful compared with urine testing. Scores in the awareness questionnaire were globally low (36.8%) without difference between patients and their parents.

Conclusions:

Although our study shows differences in outcomes (e.g. accurate use, detection of ketosis) of urine versus blood ketone monitoring, these did not affect the occurrence of HE. Whereas ketone monitoring is part of standardized diabetes education, its implementation in daily routine remains difficult, partly because patient awareness about mechanisms of ketosis is lacking.
Use of repeated intravenous ketamine therapy in treatment-resistant bipolar depression with suicidal behaviour: a case report from Spain
Authors: López-Díaz Álvaro , Fernández-González José Luis , Luján-Jiménez José Evaristo , Galiano-Rus Sara , Gutiérrez-Rojas Luis
Published: January 2017

The rapidly-acting antidepressant properties of ketamine are a trend topic in psychiatry. Despite its robust effects, these are ephemeral and can lead to certain adverse events. For this reason, there is still a general concern around the off-label use of ketamine in clinical practice settings. Nonetheless, for refractory depression, it should be an indication to consider. We report the case of a female patient admitted for several months due to a treatment-resistant depressive bipolar episode with chronic suicidal behaviour. After repeated intravenous ketamine infusions without remarkable side effects, the patient experienced a complete clinical recovery during the 4 weeks following hospital discharge. Unfortunately, depressive symptoms reappeared in the 5th week, and the patient was finally readmitted to hospital as a result of a suicide attempt.
Impact of mobile intensive care unit use on total ischemic time and clinical outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients – real-world data from the Acute Coronary Syndrome Israeli Survey
Authors: Koifman Edward , Beigel Roy , Iakobishvili Zaza , Shlomo Nir , Biton Yitschak , Sabbag Avi , Asher Elad , Atar Shaul , Gottlieb Shmuel , Alcalai Ronny , Zahger Doron , Segev Amit , Goldenberg Ilan , Strugo Rafael , Matetzky Shlomi
Published: January 2017

Background:

Ischemic time has prognostic importance in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients. Mobile intensive care unit use can reduce components of total ischemic time by appropriate triage of ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients.

Methods:

Data from the Acute Coronary Survey in Israel registry 2000–2010 were analyzed to evaluate factors associated with mobile intensive care unit use and its impact on total ischemic time and patient outcomes.

Results:

The study comprised 5474 ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients enrolled in the Acute Coronary Survey in Israel registry, of whom 46% ( n=2538) arrived via mobile intensive care units. There was a significant increase in rates of mobile intensive care unit utilization from 36% in 2000 to over 50% in 2010 ( p<0.001). Independent predictors of mobile intensive care unit use were Killip>1 (odds ratio=1.32, p<0.001), the presence of cardiac arrest (odds ratio=1.44, p=0.02), and a systolic blood pressure <100 mm Hg (odds ratio=2.01, p<0.001) at presentation. Patients arriving via mobile intensive care units benefitted from increased rates of primary reperfusion therapy (odds ratio=1.58, p<0.001). Among ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing primary reperfusion, those arriving by mobile intensive care unit benefitted from shorter median total ischemic time compared with non-mobile intensive care unit patients (175 (interquartile range 120–262) vs 195 (interquartile range 130–333) min, respectively ( p<0.001)). Upon a multivariate analysis, mobile intensive care unit use was the most important predictor in achieving door-to-balloon time <90 min (odds ratio=2.56, p<0.001) and door-to-needle time <30 min (odds ratio=2.96, p<0.001). One-year mortality rates were 10.7% in both groups (log-rank p-value=0.98), however inverse propensity weight model, adjusted for significant differences between both groups, revealed a significant reduction in one-year mortality in favor of the mobile intensive care unit group (odds ratio=0.79, 95% confidence interval (0.66–0.94), p=0.01).

Conclusions:

Among patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, the utilization of mobile intensive care units is associated with increased rates of primary reperfusion, a reduction in the time interval to reperfusion, and a reduction in one-year adjusted mortality.
Are we cross-matching too much blood for elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair?
Authors: Lowe Emily , Quarmby John
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

This study aims to identify current blood transfusion requirements in elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and to compare this to an existing maximum surgical blood order schedule.

Methods:

We retrospectively identified patients who underwent elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair over a 40-month period in our institution. Pre-operative number of units cross-matched and the number of units actually transfused were identified. The cross-match to transfusion ratio was then calculated.

Results:

Blood transfusion at any time post-operatively was required in 23 (48.9%) cases. Patients needing an intra-operative blood transfusion had a median of 2 units. Of the pre-operative cross-matched units (123), only 43 were used, giving a cross-match to transfusion ratio of 2.86.

Conclusion:

Our current maximum surgical blood order schedule is poorly followed and a cross-match to transfusion ratio of 2.86 indicates we are cross-matching too many units for elective open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. A carefully considered individualised management of blood products, with the requirement of at least a valid group and save sample, may be more appropriate.
Successful percutaneous coil embolization of a severely tortuous coronary artery fistula using the mother-child-grandchild technique via a GuideLiner catheter
Authors: Kodaira Masaki , Numasawa Yohei
Published: January 2017

Coronary artery fistula is an uncommon congenital disease that requires invasive treatment for symptomatic patients. Although percutaneous intervention has become the popular treatment option, surgical treatment is preferred for severely tortuous coronary artery fistulas. We report a case of an extremely tortuous coronary artery fistula successfully treated with the support of the GuideLiner catheter and the mother-grandchild technique.
Antibiotic resistance and gyrA mutation affect the efficacy of 10‐day sitafloxacin‐metronidazole‐esomeprazole therapy for Helicobacter pylori in penicillin allergic patients
Authors: Mori Hideki , Suzuki Hidekazu , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Masaoka Tatsuhiro , Kanai Takanori
Published: January 2017

Background and aim

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori ) eradication regimen has not been standardized for patients with penicillin allergy. We investigated the association between the efficacy of a 10‐day sitafloxacin, metronidazole, and esomeprazole triple regimen and antibiotic resistance, in patients with penicillin allergy.

Methods

Penicillin‐allergic patients infected with H. pylori were enrolled between March 2014 and November 2015. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of sitafloxacin and metronidazole, and the gyrA mutation status of the H. pylori strains were determined before treatment. The cut‐off points for antimicrobial resistance were defined as 8.0 µg/ml for metronidazole and 0.12 µg/ml for sitafloxacin. The patients received the triple therapy (20 mg esomeprazole, bid; 250 mg metronidazole, bid; and 100 mg sitafloxacin, bid) for 10 days. Successful eradication was evaluated using the [13 C] urea breath test or the H. pylori stool antigen test.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients were analyzed, and the overall eradication rate was 89.5%. The eradication rate in cases of double antibiotic resistance to metronidazole and sitafloxacin was 40.0%, whereas for other combinations of resistance, this was above 90.0%. Finally, the eradication rate of gyrA mutation‐negative strains was 96.2%, whereas for gyrA mutation‐positive strains, it was 83.9%. Adverse events were reported in 31.6% of cases, all of which were mild and tolerable.

Conclusion

Ten days of sitafloxacin and metronidazole triple therapy was safe and highly effective in eradicating H. pylori in penicillin‐allergic patients. Double resistance to metronidazole and sitafloxacin was an important predicting factor for eradication failure. However, 10 days of the sitafloxacin and metronidazole triple therapy was highly effective if the strain was susceptible to either sitafloxacin or metronidazole.
The one-year experience of tape and mesh removal at a urological tertiary referral centre
Authors: Bekarma Holly , Granitsiotis Paraskeve
Published: January 2017

Objective:

There is increasing controversy surrounding the use of synthetic materials in transvaginal tape and vaginal mesh for stress incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. The aim of this study was to review the case load and operative management of a tertiary referral urology centre dealing with surgical complications of these procedures within Scotland.

Participants/patients (or materials) and methods:

A retrospective review of patients undergoing removal of products and analysis of their symptom, operative findings and postoperative status was conducted.

Results:

Twenty-five patients were identified in a one-year period. Eighty per cent of initial procedures were performed by a gynaecologist. Patients presented with a variety of symptoms including pain, infections and haematuria. The most common device needing removal was a tension-free vaginal tape obturator (TVTO). Intraoperative findings were classified using an online calculator with the most common location for complications being within the urethra. Most patients underwent successful removal of all parts of the tape and a small number required combined abdominal and vaginal approach. Postoperatively there was significant symptom resolution for most women with recurrent urinary infections and pain. Over 50% of women were continent postoperatively.

Conclusion:

We have demonstrated the benefit of performing operative management of these patients in a tertiary referral centre in terms of outcomes regarding improvement of symptoms and continence rates.
Explaining the salience of anti-elitism and reducing political corruption for political parties in Europe with the 2014 Chapel Hill Expert Survey data
Authors: Polk Jonathan , Rovny Jan , Bakker Ryan , Edwards Erica , Hooghe Liesbet , Jolly Seth , Koedam Jelle , Kostelka Filip , Marks Gary , Schumacher Gijs , Steenbergen Marco , Vachudova Milada , Zilovic Marko
Published: January 2017

This article addresses the variation of anti-corruption and anti-elite salience in party positioning across Europe. It demonstrates that while anti-corruption salience is primarily related to the (regional) context in which a party operates, anti-elite salience is primarily a function of party ideology. Extreme left and extreme conservative (TAN) parties are significantly more likely to emphasize anti-elite views. Through its use of the new 2014 Chapel Hill Expert Survey wave, this article also introduces the dataset.
Sino-US film coproduction: A global media primer
Authors: Peng Weiying
Published: January 2017

This China–US case study describes the negotiation between Chinese consumer demand and the growing Chinese market for cinema, the Chinese film industry’s aspiration for international success and domestic development, the Chinese government’s soft power ambitions and the largest and most successful film industry in the world – Hollywood. This article gives a brief look at the Sino-US film coproduction history, examines the root reason for the phenomena of ‘fake’ coproduction and analyses the challenges that hurdle the deep cooperation (‘real’ coproduction) process.
The bumpy road towards network convergence in China: The case of over-the-top streaming services
Authors: Zhao Elaine Jing
Published: January 2017

The decoupling of content and distribution platform has changed television irrevocably. Potential opportunities promised by the integration of telecommunications, broadcast and Internet networks means television has become a strategic highland for relevant stakeholders including industry players and state regulators. In China, network convergence has been on the state agenda since the turn of the century, but has remained stubbornly hard to move forward. This article starts with a brief overview of the state policy development in relation to the three-network convergence. It then zooms in onto the case of over-the-top streaming as a microcosm of the convergence project by examining two critical moments in its development trajectory, highlighting a short-lived early experiment in 2005 and a more recent wave of solutions since 2010. It offers a contextualised analysis of market evolution and state regulatory approaches in this space as power negotiations play out in multiple dimensions including those between the state and market, between the central and local, and between sectorial interests. By doing so, this article reveals contestations, contradictions and challenges in the state-engineered convergence project.