bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Rent from Unequal Exchange on Shaikh’s Classical-Keynesian Political Economic Analysis: The Example of Facebook
Authors: Baiman Ron
Published: January 2020

In this paper, Shaikh’s 1949–2011 classical Phillips curve (CPC) is replicated and extended to 2016. This updated CPC does not follow the pattern anticipated by Shaikh for the years 2012 to 2016. This paper hypothesizes that this divergence is a result of an increasingly “rentier” economy based on surplus extraction through unequal exchange (UE). Andrea Ricci’s methodology is then applied to the 2014 US advertising and market research (A&MR) sector as a sample test of this hypothesis. This analysis shows that UE accounts for $64 billion, or almost a half (45.3 percent), of total US A&MR value added ($141.3 billion) in 2014. A modification of Ricci’s methodology for a firm-level UE estimation finds that in 2014 Facebook alone was able to extract a within-industry, within-country, between-firm absolute rent of $3.8 billion. The paper concludes that Shaikh’s analysis needs to be extended with non-classical political economy UE, or “rentier economy,” analysis.
The Value of Social Control: Racial Resentment, Punitiveness, and White Support for Spending on Law Enforcement
Authors: Morris R. C. , LeCount Ryan Jerome
Published: January 2020

A well-established body of research finds that racial resentment predicts support for punitive criminal justice policy. This article links racial resentment with punitiveness, expanding the existing research—a body of work that largely treats punitivity as a response to threat. Data for this study come from three nationally representative samples and incorporate individual and contextual factors. Key variables include Racial Resentment, Political Ideology, Punitiveness, Crime—both objective crime (i.e., county-level crime rates) and subjective crime (i.e., fear of crime), racial population characteristics, and theoretically relevant controls. Contextual factors help to clarify whether support for spending is a “rational” response to crime or a “nonrational” response to perceived racial threat as expressed through punitiveness. Findings indicate that, net of a host of factors, a punitive value orientation as well as racial resentment predicts support for increased spending on law enforcement. Our analysis also suggests that racial resentment and punitivity are more consistent and stronger predictors of support even when controlling for Crime. The article closes with a discussion of opportunity cost vis-à-vis law enforcement and other community needs. Implications for further study of race and criminal justice policy get discussed with suggestions for dealing with the future of identity-based politics.
¡Pertenecemos y tenemos importancia aquí! Exploring Sense of Belonging and Mattering for First-Generation and Continuing-Generation Latinx Undergraduates
Authors: Dueñas Mary , Gloria Alberta M.
Published: January 2020

Using a psychosociocultural approach, we examined the role of motivation, belonging, and congruity relative to sense of mattering for 236 Latinx undergraduates attending a public Midwest research university. Findings revealed the key role of belonging in understanding undergraduates’ experiences where belonging accounted for more than half of the variance of mattering as well as mediated the relationship of congruity and mattering. Differences by college generation, academic certificate, and student organization status were also revealed. Practical implications for faculty, administrators, and university personnel and future direction for research are addressed relative to student affiliation and sense of belonging and mattering.
Evaluation of Vitamin B12 Monitoring in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes on Metformin Therapy
Authors: Runeberg Haley A. , Higbea Ashley M. , Weideman Rick A. , Alvarez Carlos A.
Published: January 2020

Background:

Studies have shown an association between metformin use and vitamin B12 deficiency. Since 2017, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes Guideline has included a recommendation for periodic vitamin B12 measurements in metformin-treated patients, especially those with anemia or peripheral neuropathy.

Objective:

To determine the overall incidence and impact of the ADA Guideline on vitamin B12 monitoring in a veteran population on long-term metformin therapy.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review was performed for patients on metformin who started therapy prior to 2005 at the VA North Texas Health Care System (VANTXHCS). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with at least 1 vitamin B12 level drawn during 2016 versus 2018. Metformin dose and duration, vitamin B12 supplementation, and incident neuropathy prescriptions or diagnosis were also analyzed.

Results:

Of 394 patients included for the primary outcome, 136 (34.5%) had at least 1 vitamin B12 level in 2016 versus 198 (50.3%) patients in 2018 (odds ratio: 1.94, P < .001). Of the 394 patients, 157 were diagnosed with neuropathy or prescribed a medication for neuropathy without a vitamin B12 level in the previous year or with a low level that was not supplemented.

Conclusion:

Vitamin B12 monitoring significantly increased between 2016 and 2018, aligning with the release of the 2017 ADA guidelines. However, a large proportion of patients were identified who were diagnosed with or treated for neuropathy without adequate vitamin B12 monitoring.
Psychosocial Interventions for Family Carers of People With Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Teahan Áine , Lafferty Attracta , McAuliffe Eilish , Phelan Amanda , O’Sullivan Liam , O’Shea Diarmuid , Nicholson Emma , Fealy Gerard
Published: January 2020

Objective:This study aimed to review and synthesize findings of the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions aimed at improving outcomes for family carers of people with dementia. Method: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We systematically searched the following databases: Cochrane, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycInfo, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA). RevMan 5 software was used to conduct meta-analysis and subgroup analysis using a random-effects model. Results: The search yielded 22 high-quality intervention articles that were suitable for further meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed that psychosocial interventions have a small to moderate significant effect on carer burden (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.34, confidence interval [CI] = [−0.59, −0.09]), depression (SMD = −0.36, CI = [−0.60, −0.13]), and general health (SMD = 0.34, CI = [0.18, 0.51]). Discussion: Psychosocial interventions had a positive impact on carer outcomes; however, these results should be interpreted with caution, given the significant level of heterogeneity in study designs. Future research could examine contextual and implementation mechanisms underlying psychosocial interventions to develop effective support systems for family carers of people with dementia.
A minor philosophy of world: From the anthropological illusion to Relation in area studies
Authors: Workman Travis
Published: January 2020

This article discusses Édouard Glissant’s theory of Relation as a minor philosophy of world that breaks from the spatialization of time and the anthropological cosmopolitanism of Enlightenment thought and Cold War area studies. The first part connects two dominant Cold War area studies discourses—modernization theory and cultural anthropology—to Immanuel Kant’s Anthropology and Michel Foucault’s reading of it, showing how area studies discourses participate in an old Enlightenment problem of what Foucault calls the “anthropological illusion.” The article then connects Glissant’s criticism of generalization and his idea of the “world” to the critique of area studies, showing how the spatiotemporality of Glissant’s Relation disarticulates the area studies framework and its mode of racializing the poetics of world history, world literature, and world culture.
Trauma and referentiality in Bhabani Bhattacharya’s famine novels
Authors: Sinha Babli
Published: January 2020

Bhabani Bhattacharya’s novels, So Many Hungers! and He Who Rides a Tiger, provide an epistemological alternative to imperial narratives about the Bengal famine of 1943, that aligns with the concept of the minor as a cultural counter-discourse. Bhattacharya resists representations of a passive, humble population accustomed to poverty by featuring individuated characters with a realist aesthetic. Yet, realism is fractured by the mnemonic (silence, screams, ellipsis), and Bhattacharya shifts protagonists from referential to performative notions of identity. These techniques produce a sense of kinship with the famine victims and question the possibility of the referential representation of trauma.
Sulforaphane attenuates angiotensin II-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury by modulating ROS-mediated mitochondrial signaling
Authors: Zhang M , Xu Y , Jiang L
Published: January 2020

The study aimed to investigate whether sulforaphane (SFN) protects against angiotensin II (Ang II)-mediated human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) injury. Ang II treatment decreased HUVEC viability, increased cell apoptosis, decreased mitochondria membrane potential (MMP), impaired cytochrome c release, activated caspase 3/9, and induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activity. Moreover, SFN treatment blunted Ang II-stimulated oxidative stress and mitochondria-related apoptosis in HUVECs. The ROS scavenger N-acetyl-l-cysteine reduced Ang II-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis, indicating that ROS generation is involved in the Ang II-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptotic pathway. SFN induced nuclear factor erythroid 2 (Nrf2) activation and expression in Ang II-stimulated HUVECs. Downregulation of Nrf2 expression by a target-specific siRNA revealed an Nrf2-dependent effect on the SFN-mediated attenuation of Ang II-induced apoptosis in HUVECs. Pretreatment with brusatol, an Nrf2-specific inhibitor, reversed the protective effects of SFN on Ang II-induced HUVEC injury. SFN treatment protected HUVECs from Ang II-induced damage by decreasing oxidative stress and ameliorating mitochondrial injury.
Private Equity and Venture Capital in China in the Aftermath of the Sino-American Trade Disputes
Authors: Madi Maria Alejandra C.
Published: January 2020

In the last decade, private equity and venture capital funds have shifted to the Asia-Pacific region. This article aims to contribute to the understanding of the trends in fundraising and capital allocation in the context of the US–China trade disputes and, therefore, to fill the gap in the literature on private equity and venture capital industry.
The Thucydides Trap as an Alternative Explanation for the US–China Trade War
Authors: Moosa Imad A.
Published: January 2020

The current trade war between the USA and China is perceived to be motivated by the US desire to curtail the bilateral trade deficit, on the assumption that reducing the deficit boosts economic growth. This flawed proposition indicates gross misunderstanding of the national income identity and the basic principles of macroeconomics. The imposition of tariffs will not reduce the trade deficit as the assumptions and conditions required for a smooth working of the process are unrealistic and counterfactual. The notion of an economic Thucydides trap is put forward to explain why the trade war is motivated by US apprehension about China’s rising economic power.
Pathogenesis and diagnostic features of brain and ophthalmic damage produced by Clostridium perfringens type D epsilon toxin
Authors: Finnie John W. , Navarro Mauricio A. , Uzal Francisco A.
Published: January 2020

Clostridium perfringens type D epsilon toxin (EXT) causes an important neurologic disorder of sheep, goats and, rarely, cattle. The disease can occur in peracute, acute, subacute, and chronic forms. High circulating levels of ETX produce vasculocentric brain lesions, in which microvascular endothelial injury results in diagnostically useful perivascular and intramural extravasations of plasma protein, especially in sheep, and less frequently in goats. With lower toxin doses, a more protracted clinical course tends to occur, particularly in sheep, leading to focal, bilaterally symmetrical, necrotic foci in certain brain regions. Although these morphologic features usually permit the diagnostic pathologist to make a definitive etiologic diagnosis, there are many aspects of the pathogenesis of these cerebral lesions that are not completely understood. ETX has also been shown to produce microvascular damage in the retina of rats, resulting in severe, diffuse vasogenic edema, similar to that found in brains exposed to this neurotoxin. The pathoclisis and vascular theories offer alternative explanations of the differential susceptibility of different brain regions to the same neurotoxic insult.
Motivating Adult Learners to Learn at Adult-Education Schools in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljohani Obaidalah H. , Alajlan Sarah M.
Published: January 2020

This study’s main purpose was to identify adult learners’ motivation to pursue learning at Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu adult-education schools. The study also investigates if there is a difference by gender, by age, and among learners in terms of their internal and external motivation to learn. The study’s theoretical framework came from Knowles’ theory of andragogy. A survey consisting of a self-administered questionnaire was used. The study population included all adult learners ( n = 463) at the Yanbu adult-education schools in Saudi Arabia. The results revealed the importance of the five motivators (social contact, family togetherness, social stimulation, cognitive interest, and religious stimulation) for adult learners at Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu adult-education schools. However, this study indicated that adult learners are more motivated internally than externally. Therefore, teachers should pay attention to the internal factors more than the external factor to keep up with their students’ level of motivation.
Implementation of the Baby Bridge Program Reduces Timing Between NICU Discharge and Therapy Activation
Authors: Pineda Roberta , Heiny Elizabeth , Roussin Jessica , Nellis Patricia , Bogan Katherine , Smith Joan
Published: January 2020

The Baby Bridge program was developed to ensure timely and continuous therapy services following neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) discharge. A systematic process for development of the Baby Bridge program included a review of the evidence, integration of theory, and input from NICU health care professionals, early intervention leadership, and parents of preterm infants. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we aimed to (a) assess organizational readiness for the new programming; (b) determine adoptability, acceptability, and fidelity following implementation; and (c) evaluate the program. Following the development of Baby Bridge programming, readiness for implementation was observed at the study site. Baby Bridge programming was adopted by the team, acceptable to health care staff and parents, achieved the key features defined, and resulted in more infants born ≤30 weeks receiving early therapy services ( n = 58/60, 97% compared with n = 44/57, 77%; p < .0001) an average of 85 days earlier, p < .0001, β = −84.7 (–70.2 to −99.2), than historical controls.
Meaningful Leadership: How Can Leaders Contribute to Meaningful Work?
Authors: Frémeaux Sandrine , Pavageau Benjamin
Published: January 2020

This study addresses the question of how leaders can contribute to their own meaningful work and to the meaningful work of their employees. Based on 42 interviews with leaders, including 27 life story interviews, our article examines the extent to which leaders give meaning to leadership practices that are regarded by the existing literature as factors contributing to meaningful work. This article provides new insights into the concept of meaningful leadership that complements meaningful work theories. Our first contribution is identifying new components of meaning related to leadership activity: moral exemplarity, self-awareness, personal or professional support, community spirit, shared work commitment and positive attitude towards individuals and situations. Second, we also delineate the dynamics of meaningful leadership related to leaders’ past experiences and employees’ meaningful work. We contend that awareness of these components and dynamics can help leaders encourage employees’ meaningful work while making sense of their own leadership activity.
Where Stool is a Drug: International Approaches to Regulating the use of Fecal Microbiota for Transplantation
Authors: Scheeler Alexandra
Published: January 2020

Regulatory agencies vary widely in their classification of FMT, with significant impact on patient access. This article conducts a global survey of national regulations and collates existing FMT classification statuses, ultimately suggesting that the human cell and tissue product designation best fits FMT's characteristics and that definitional objectives to that classification may be overcome.
Clinical Utility of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2–Restructured Form (MMPI-2-RF) in a Residential Treatment Program for Homeless Individuals
Authors: Ruiz Mark A. , Dorritie Mary T.
Published: January 2020

The current study examined the clinical utility of the Restructured Form of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory–2 (MMPI-2-RF) in a residential treatment program for homeless individuals. MMPI-2-RF scale scores from 146 participants with valid profiles were correlated with variables obtained at intake and during treatment. The sample was then followed 12 months postdischarge to test preregistered hypotheses regarding MMPI-2-RF predictors of hospital readmissions. The results indicated that a variety of MMPI-2-RF scale scores were correlated with historical and diagnostic variables at intake and with measures of treatment outcome, including behavioral problems and successful outcome. A broad range of MMPI-2-RF scale scores were related to readmissions postdischarge and many of these relationships remained significant when tested in Poisson regression models containing other predictors. However, the postdischarge findings were generally inconsistent with our predictions and were of small effect size. The clinical implications of MMPI-2-RF results for residential treatment programs are discussed.
Potential cross-reactivity of polysorbate 80 and cremophor: A case report
Authors: Bibera Mark Allen T , Lo Kristina M K , Steele Aaron
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Anaphylactic and hypersensitivity reactions are known adverse effects of many drug products and may be due to the inactive ingredients of the drug formulation. Specifically for paclitaxel and docetaxel, it is their excipients (cremophor and polysorbate 80, respectively) that have been identified as being most likely responsible for these reactions.

Case report

The patient is a 39-year-old female, with a history of breast cancer and no known allergies, who was scheduled to start chemotherapy. While being administered fosaprepitant, she reported shortness of breath and was noted to be hypotensive and flushed. Two months later, the patient returned to clinic to start weekly paclitaxel. During the administration of the paclitxel test dose, the patient reported difficulty breathing, flushing, and chest tightness. Management and outcome: Both medication reactions were managed with epinephrine and other supportive medications. Fosaprepitant was taken out of the patient’s antiemetic regimen for future cycles and paclitaxel was switched to nab-paclitaxel.

Discussion

It is well documented that paclitaxel and fosaprepitant have the potential to cause hypersensitivity reactions due to their excipients. While it is likely that each reaction was a unique event, it is difficult to ignore the possibility of cross-reactivity due to the presence of oleic acid in both excipients.
Literacies of Refuge: “Pidiendo Posada” as Ritual of Justice
Authors: de los Ríos Cati V. , Molina Arturo
Published: January 2020

This article explores how a secondary ethnic studies course leveraged immigrant families’ literacies rooted in the Mexican spiritual ritual of Las Posadas for in-school literacy instruction and to engage in community-responsive grassroots processions as social protest. Using ethnographic and participatory design research, the authors—one a university researcher and the other an ethnic studies teacher—examine the literacy practices of a long-standing immigrant community–classroom partnership that unites day laborers, families, students, and teachers in the name of justice and refuge. Using photographs, interviews, students’ literacy artifacts, focus groups, and field notes, this study asks, (a) What do literacies look like in an ethnic studies course that designed learning around local community knowledge and sanctuary? (b) How do students respond to such curricular design? This study contributes ethnographic knowledge on school-based participatory research projects that build on the intergenerational literacies, sociopolitical awareness, and social movements of Latinx immigrant families.
PredictMed: A logistic regression–based model to predict health conditions in cerebral palsy
Authors: Bertoncelli Carlo M , Altamura Paola , Vieira Edgar Ramos , Iyengar Sundaraja Sitharama , Solla Federico , Bertoncelli Domenico
Published: January 2020

Logistic regression–based predictive models are widely used in the healthcare field but just recently are used to predict comorbidities in children with cerebral palsy. This article presents a logistic regression approach to predict health conditions in children with cerebral palsy and a few examples from recent research. The model named PredictMed was trained, tested, and validated for predicting the development of scoliosis, intellectual disabilities, autistic features, and in the present study, feeding disorders needing gastrostomy. This was a multinational, cross-sectional descriptive study. Data of 130 children (aged 12–18 years) with cerebral palsy were collected between June 2005 and June 2015. The logistic regression–based model uses an algorithm implemented in R programming language. After splitting the patients in training and testing sets, logistic regressions are performed on every possible subset (tuple) of independent variables. The tuple that shows the best predictive performance in terms of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity is chosen as a set of independent variables in another logistic regression to calculate the probability to develop the specific health condition (e.g. the need for gastrostomy). The average of accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity score was 90%. Our model represents a novelty in the field of some cerebral palsy–related health outcomes treatment, and it should significantly help doctors’ decision-making process regarding patient prognosis.
Comparing the Effects of Different Story Types and Speakers in Hepatitis B Storytelling Videos
Authors: Alber Julia M. , Cohen Chari , Bleakley Amy , Ghazvini Sanam F. , Tolentino Brenda Trang , Almeida Rebeca , Chance Beth L.
Published: January 2020

Chronic hepatitis B, a condition associated with severe complications, disproportionately affects Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States. Increasing testing among this population is critical for improving health outcomes. This study compares different types of video narratives that use storytelling techniques to an informational video (control), to examine whether narratives are associated with higher hepatitis B beliefs scores and video rating outcomes. A sample of Asian American and Pacific Islander adults ( N = 600) completed an online survey where they viewed one of four video conditions, three of which included storytelling techniques and one with informational content. Results indicated that parental stories received significantly higher perceived effectiveness ratings ( M = 3.88, SD = 0.61) than the older adult personal stories ( M = 3.62, SD = 0.74), F(3, 596) = 3.795, p = .010. Parental stories also had significantly higher perceived severity scores ( M = 3.83, SD = 0.69) compared to the young adult stories ( M = 3.73, SD = 0.74) and the informational videos ( M = 3.83, SD = 0.69), F(3, 596) = 7.72, p < .001. The informational videos ( M = 4.10, SD = 0.65) received significantly higher message credibility ratings than the older adult personal stories ( M = 3.84, SD = 0.70), F(3, 596) = 4.71, p = .003. Follow-up tests using Bonferroni correction revealed that parental stories ( M = 3.98, SD = 0.64) and young adult personal stories ( M = 3.934, SD = 0.76) scored significantly higher on speaker ratings than the older adult personal stories ( M = 3.698, SD = 0.77). Results suggest that storytelling has the potential for connecting with a specific audience in an emotional way that is perceived well overall. Future research should examine the long-term impact of hepatitis B personal story videos and whether the addition of facts or statistics to videos would improve outcomes.
Effects of melt spinning parameters on polypropylene hollow fiber formation
Authors: Ruckdashel Rebecca , Shim Eunkyoung
Published: January 2020

The objective of this research was to explore the effects of processing conditions on hollow fiber spinning, specifically to look at how differences in solidification impact hollow and solid fiber structures. Polypropylene hollow fibers were melt-spun with a four-segmented arc (4C) die under the wide ranges of spinning conditions (0.25–0.83 g/min of polymer mass throughput per a fiber, 500–2000 m/min of spinning speed, and 5%–100% quench rate). Fiber structure was explored through thermal, geometric, and tensile properties. Fiber hollowness depends on all spinning parameters studied (mass throughput, spinning speed, and quench rate). Increasing the quench rate resulted in the fiber solidifications closer to the spinneret. This leads to higher hollowness but also affected fiber tensile properties. When hollow and solid fibers were compared at constant quench, the hollow fiber solidified faster than solid fiber. The crystallinity of the fibers remained similar, but the tensile modulus was higher for hollow fiber than for solid fiber.
Embolization of visceral arterial aneurysms: Simulation with 3D-printed models
Authors: Shibata Eisuke , Takao Hidemasa , Amemiya Shiori , Ohtomo Kuni , Abe Osamu
Published: January 2020

Objectives

The present technical article aimed to describe the efficacy of three-dimensional (3D)-printed hollow vascular models as a tool in the preoperative simulation of endovascular embolization of visceral artery aneurysms.

Methods

From November 2015 to November 2016, four consecutive endovascular treatments of true visceral artery aneurysms were preoperatively simulated with 3D-printed hollow models. The mean age of the patients (one male and three females) was 54 (range: 40–71) years. Three patients presented with splenic artery aneurysm and one with anterior pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm. The average diameter of the aneurysms was 16.5 (range: 10–25) mm. The 3D-printed hollow models of the visceral artery aneurysms and involved arteries were created using computed tomography angiography data of the patients. After establishing treatment plans by simulations with the 3D-printed models, all patients received endovascular treatment.

Results

All four hollow aneurysm models were successfully fabricated and used in the preoperative simulation of endovascular treatment. In the preoperative simulations with 3D-printed hollow models, splenic aneurysms were embolized with coils and/or n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate to establish the actual treatment plans, and a small arterial branch originating from an anterior pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysm was selected to obtain feedback regarding the behavior of catheters and guidewires. After establishing treatment plans by simulations, the visceral artery aneurysms of all patients were successfully embolized without major complications and recanalization.

Conclusions

Simulation with 3D-printed hollow models can help establish an optimal treatment plan and may improve the safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment for visceral artery aneurysms.
Evaluating recanalization of relevant lenticulostriate arteries in acute ischemic stroke using high-resolution MRA at 7T
Authors: Suzuki Takafumi , Natori Tatsunori , Sasaki Makoto , Miyazawa Haruna , Narumi Shinsuke , Ito Kohei , Kamada Asami , Yoshida Makiko , Tsuda Keisuke , Yoshioka Kunihiro , Terayama Yasuo
Published: January 2020

Background

Occluded major intracranial arteries can spontaneously recanalize in patients with acute ischemic stroke mainly due to embolic mechanisms. However, it remains unknown whether recanalization can occur in perforating arteries, such as lenticulostriate arteries. Therefore, in the present study, we assessed changes suggesting recanalization of the lenticulostriate arteries in patients with acute ischemic stroke of the lenticulostriate artery territory using high-resolution magnetic resonance angiography (HR-MRA) at 7T.

Methods

We prospectively examined 39 consecutive patients with acute infarcts confined within the lenticulostriate artery territory. Using a 7T scanner during the acute period and one month thereafter, we evaluated imaging findings indicating the recanalization of the relevant lenticulostriate arteries, following which we examined differences in other imaging findings and clinical characteristics between patients with/without recanalization.

Results

HR-MRA findings suggestive of recanalization (i.e. patent lenticulostriate arteries within acute infarct lesions with/without hemorrhagic changes) were observed in 8 (25%) of 32 patients who were eligible for analyses. These findings were detected in three and five patients on the baseline and follow-up images, respectively. The lengths of relevant lenticulostriate arteries on the follow-up MRA were significantly larger in patients with recanalization than in those without ( P = 0.01). However, there were no significant differences in the infarct volume or clinical outcomes between the recanalization and non-recanalization groups.

Conclusion

HR-MRA at 7T revealed that recanalization of the relevant lenticulostriate arteries can occur in patients with acute ischemic stroke confined to the lenticulostriate artery territory.
Global epidemiology of atrial fibrillation: An increasing epidemic and public health challenge
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian , Cervellin Gianfranco
Published: January 2020

Background

Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent cardiac arrhythmia. It has been estimated that 6–12 million people worldwide will suffer this condition in the US by 2050 and 17.9 million people in Europe by 2060. Atrial fibrillation is a major risk factor for ischemic stroke and provokes important economic burden along with significant morbidity and mortality.

Aim

We provide here comprehensive and updated statistics on worldwide epidemiology of atrial fibrillation.

Methods

An electronic search was conducted for atrial fibrillation. The epidemiologic information was retrieved from the Global Health Data Exchange database, which is regarded as one of the most comprehensive worldwide catalogs of surveys, censuses, vital statistics, and other health-related data.

Results

A total of 3.046 million new cases of atrial fibrillation worldwide were registered in the database during 2017. The estimated incidence rate for 2017 (403/millions inhabitants) was 31% higher than the corresponding incidence in 1997. The worldwide prevalence of atrial fibrillation is 37,574 million cases (0.51% of worldwide population), increased also by 33% during the last 20 years. The highest burden is seen in countries with high socio-demographic index, though the largest recent increased occurred in middle socio-demographic index countries. Future projections suggest that absolute atrial fibrillation burden may increase by >60% in 2050.

Conclusions

Our analyses suggest that atrial fibrillation incidence and prevalence have increased over the last 20 years and will continue to increase over the next 30 years, especially in countries with middle socio-demographic index, becoming one of the largest epidemics and public health challenges.
Ultrasonography: the third eye of hand surgeons
Authors: Vögelin Esther
Published: January 2020

High-resolution ultrasonography is an important tool used for the diagnosis and management of inflammatory arthritis of the hand and wrist. This imaging modality has also proven its utility in the evaluation of traumatic lesions of tendons, nerves, annular pulleys, ligaments, and carpal and digital injuries and for detecting foreign bodies and causes of joint locking. One of the great advantages is the possibility of getting an internal image of the involved anatomical structure in axial, coronal, and transversal planes, as well as the option for observing dynamic changes during motion. Examiners may view the structures in the way it suits them best. The objective of this article is to summarize the author’s own experience, to point out the advantage of ultrasonography in diagnosing some selective traumatic and non-traumatic lesions, and to highlight its role in these conditions.
Multi-Tiered Mentorship Models: Increasing Learning Outcomes of Underserved Populations
Authors: Smell Adrianna , Newman Harmony
Published: January 2020

In order to successfully achieve intended outcomes, mentorship models must be able to provide their target population with opportunities to gain entrée into their prospective field, the tools necessary for navigating new spaces, and a community that supports one’s transition into these new roles. On their own, neither dyadic nor peer mentorship models are likely to achieve all of these goals. Although the current trend in mentorship is to provide participants with a single avenue of support, our findings emphasize a need for achievement programs to provide access to multiple sources of support and create a framework that anchor these sources together. This paper demonstrates the importance of utilizing multiple forms of mentorship as it positively impacts underserved populations transition into dominant roles by giving them the resources to build the capital necessary to thrive in more dominant spaces. Discipline experts provide the field-specific details, peers create a supportive environment, and dedicated staff cultivates the program’s flow to ensure students can develop professionalization.
The More the Merrier? Understanding How Travel Frequency Shapes Willingness to Pay
Authors: Nieto-García Marta , Muñoz-Gallego Pablo A. , Gonzalez-Benito Óscar
Published: January 2020

Customers’ evaluation of hotel prices has received increasing attention in hospitality research. Beyond the specific attributes of the offer, internal norms related to prior experiences affect customers’ response to price. Drawing on the behavioral price literature, this study investigates the effect of travel frequency and reference price on the formation of travelers’ willingness to pay (WTP) for accommodation. The study presents a novel methodological approach introducing the concept of instantaneous indirect effect. Results offer support for an inverted U-shaped relationship between travel frequency and WTP, mediated by the internal reference price. WTP reaches its peak when the customer has booked an accommodation 6 times in the past 2-year period. The findings provide clear implications for practitioners. Monitoring customers’ travel frequency and integrating it into dynamic pricing models will create a better alignment of room rates with travelers’ WTP, which will make revenue management techniques more customer centric and, ultimately, enhance profitability.
WEE1 inhibition synergizes with CHOP chemotherapy and radiation therapy through induction of premature mitotic entry and DNA damage in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: de Jong Mathilde R. W. , Langendonk Myra , Reitsma Bart , Herbers Pien , Lodewijk Monique , Nijland Marcel , van den Berg Anke , Ammatuna Emanuele , Visser Lydia , van Meerten Tom
Published: January 2020

Background:

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous disease, characterized by high levels of genomic instability and the activation of DNA damage repair pathways. We previously found high expression of the cell cycle regulator WEE1 in DLBCL cell lines. Here, we investigated the combination of the WEE1 inhibitor, AZD1775, with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisone (CHOP) and radiation therapy (RT), with the aim of improving first-line treatment.

Methods:

Cell viability experiments were performed to determine synergistic combinations. Levels of DNA damage were established using flow cytometry for γH2AX and protein analysis for DNA damage response proteins CHK1 and CHK2. Flow cytometry analysis for cell cycle and pH3 were performed to determine cell cycle distribution and premature mitotic entry.

Results:

Treatment with either RT or CHOP led to enhanced sensitivity to AZD1775 in several DLBCL cell lines. Treatment of cells with AZD1775 induced unscheduled mitotic progression, resulting in abnormal cell cycle distribution in combination with RT or CHOP treatment. In addition, a significant increase in DNA damage was observed compared with CHOP or RT alone. Of the single CHOP components, doxorubicin showed the strongest effect together with AZD1775, reducing viability and increasing DNA damage.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the combination of RT or CHOP with AZD1775 enhances sensitivity to WEE1 inhibition through unscheduled G2/M progression, leading to increased DNA damage. Based on these results, WEE1 inhibition has great potential together with other G2/M arresting or DNA damaging (chemo) therapeutic compounds and should be further explored in clinical trials.
Management of toxicities associated with novel immunotherapy agents in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Jain Tania , Litzow Mark R.
Published: January 2020

The advent of novel immunotherapies, such as blinatumomab, inotuzumab, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, has revolutionized the therapeutic landscape in the treatment of relapsed/refractory B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, but can be associated with specific toxicities. We review unique toxicities of each of these in this article. Blinatumomab, a bispecific T cell engager, has been associated with cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and neurological toxicities, both of which can be prevented and managed with corticosteroids. Inotuzumab is a calicheamicin-conjugated CD22 targeting antibody. The calicheamicin component of the drug is likely associated with the hepatotoxicity seen with inotuzumab, especially sinusoidal obstruction syndrome, which can happen both in the context of the drug alone, and also with allogeneic stem cell transplantation. QT prolongation has also been noted with inotuzumab. CAR T therapy uses genetically modified autologous T cells directed against CD19, a known target on B cells. CRS and neurological symptoms, formally termed as immune-effector-cell-associated neurological syndrome, have been described along with hypogammaglobulinemia, cytopenias, and infections.
Does self-initiated sit-to-stand training with an assistive device regain the independence of sit-to-stand in stroke patient? A single-blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Joey Ng Chee Man , Ho Marc Woo Ka
Published: January 2020

Background

It is unknown whether self-initiated sit-to-stand training with an assistive device is effective to regain the independence of sit-to-stand in stroke survivors.

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of self-initiated sit-to-stand training with an assistive device with manual sit-to-stand training.

Design

Parallel randomized controlled, assessor-blinded trial between January 2015 and May 2018. Randomization was performed by drawing lots to allocate treatment groups.

Setting

A rehabilitation hospital in Hong Kong.

Participants

69 participants in medical wards with unilateral hemiparetic stroke. A total of 52 participants fulfilled the study requirements.

Intervention

Ten sessions of intervention with conventional physiotherapy program followed, by self-initiated sit-to-stand training with an assistive device, or by manual sit-to-stand training.

Main outcome measure

Number of participants regained the independence of sit-to-stand, sit-to-stand test from the Balance master® and Five-repetition sit-to-stand test.

Results

69 participants (intervention, n = 36; control, n = 33) were randomized (mean age, 69.8 years (SD: 10.6), mean post-stroke days 18.6 (SD: 16.0)). Seventeen participants had not completed 10 sessions of training, leaving 52 ( n = 26; n = 26) participants for per protocol analysis. Eighteen participants in the intervention group and 10 participants in the control group had regained the independence of sit-to-stand (Phi and Cramer’s V: –0.31 and 0.31). The participants in the intervention group were faster to complete the Five-repetition sit-to-stand test than the control group (32.7 sec (SD: 1.93) versus 48.4 sec (SD, 6.8); 95% confidence interval, –30.8 to –0.7; p < 0.05). No adverse side effects occurred during and after the training across groups.

Conclusions

Self-initiated sit-to-stand training with an assistive device may have positive effects on speeding up regaining the independence of sit-to-stand on sub-acute stroke survivors.
Risk for Depressive Symptoms and Suicide Among U.S. Primary Farmers and Family Members: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Reed Deborah B. , Claunch Deborah T.
Published: January 2020

Background: About 84% of the agriculture, fishing, and forestry occupational sector is comprised of farmers. This sector is at high risk for suicide in the United States. Recent disasters and trade upheavals may make farmers and their families more vulnerable to depression and suicide. This review focused on the risk for depression and suicide among United States’ primary farm operators and their families. Methods: A systematic search of the literature published between January 2000 and June 2019, using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was conducted. Results: A total of 30 articles met full inclusion criteria. Seventeen reports emanated from the midwest. Twenty studies used a cross-sectional design, primarily assessing a convenience sample or random stratified sample from a limited geographic area. We discovered only one intervention evaluation study. Depressive symptoms were assessed as part of the studies, but it was not the major focus. A variety of instruments measured depressive symptoms, with the Centers for Disease Control Epidemiologic Studies—Depression (CES-D) Scale used more frequently than other scales. Thirteen studies focused on the relationship between pesticide/chemical exposure and depression or suicide risk. Increased stress, poor physical health, compromised financial position, and previous injury were among the leading indicators of depression. Conclusion/Application to Practice: The limited number of studies that was discovered identified the need for more robust science where the risk for depression and suicide is the primary focus of the study and for intervention studies grounded in science. Occupational health providers should be vigilant about farm exposure and be aware of factors that may influence depressive symptoms of workers who operate farm establishments.
Integrating Digital Health into the Curriculum—Considerations on the Current Landscape and Future Developments
Authors: Aungst Timothy Dy , Patel Ravi
Published: January 2020

The intercession of widespread Internet access and use of mobile devices and wearables has increased the attention to the field of digital health as a novel means of providing patient care. Although substantial advancements have been made toward the development of novel technologies and identification of therapeutic areas of impact, the issue remains of how to educate future health professionals to work in an era of digital tools. This perspective piece seeks to highlight areas of concern related to subset areas of the digital health environment and provide potential educational pathways to prepare students.
Ultra-widefield retinal imaging: an update on recent advances
Authors: Patel Samir N. , Shi Angell , Wibbelsman Turner D. , Klufas Michael A.
Published: January 2020

The development of ultra-widefield retinal imaging has accelerated our understanding of common retinal diseases. As we continue to validate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of pathology in the retinal periphery, the ability to visualize and evaluate these features in an efficient and patient-friendly manner will become more important. Current interest in ultra-widefield imaging includes the development of potential biomarkers of disease progression and indicators of preclinical disease development. This article reviews the current ultra-widefield imaging systems and recent advances in their applications to clinical practice with a focus on diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, uveitis, and pediatric retina.
Correlation of retinal changes with choroidal changes in acute and recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy assessed by swept-source optical coherence tomography
Authors: Jaisankar Durgasri , Kumar Meenakshi , Rishi Pukhraj , Singh Sumeer , Raman Rajiv
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

To evaluate affected choroidal regions and corresponding retinal changes in acute and recurrent central serous chorioretinopathy using swept-source optical coherence tomography.

Methods:

The foveal and subfoveal choroidal thicknesses were measured with swept-source optical coherence tomography. The retina was divided into five zones on the swept-source optical coherence tomography image based on baseline choroidal thickness being <100, 100–199, 200–299, 300–399 and ⩾400 μm. The retinal and choroidal thicknesses in the same five regions were evaluated during follow-up. The measurements were then compared between baseline (when central serous chorioretinopathy was active) and follow-up (after complete resolution of disease).

Results:

At baseline, in the acute group, the mean outer retinal layer thickness was significantly higher in areas with thicker choroid and lower in areas with thinner choroid. No such change was noticed in the recurrent group. In the acute group, the overall retinal thickness from baseline to follow-up decreased from 269.84 to 251.9 µm, ganglion cell layer thickness decreased from 107.14 to 101.28 µm, retinal nerve fibre layer thickness decreased from 56.96 to 49.33 µm, and no significant difference was noted in choroidal thickness. In the recurrent group, choroidal thickness significantly increased from 254.58 to 262.55 µm and ganglion cell layer decreased from 103.43 to 94.01 µm. No significant difference was noted in overall retina and retinal nerve fibre layer. Reduction in choroidal and retinal layer thicknesses was better in eyes which underwent laser treatment than the observation group.

Conclusion:

Swept-source optical coherence tomography might serve as an important non-invasive tool for both evaluating the extent of pathology and to predict the recurrence rate.