bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comorbid Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms in a Patient with Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Cherukupally Karthik R , Kodjo Kodjovi , Ogunsakin Oluwaseun , Olayinka Olaniyi , Fouron Patrice
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a chronic illness most commonly found in women under 40 years. The most common psychiatric comorbidities found in MG include depressive and anxiety disorders. Clinical Presentation. We describe a case of a 43-year-old African American female with MG who was brought in for shortness of breath. History included MG diagnosed twelve years prior to the current presentation and a history of seven intubations. The patient was admitted to the ICU and intubated. She endorsed poor sleep, easy fatigability, and feeling hopeless in the context of psychosocial stressors—being single, homeless, and unemployed. The patient was started on Zoloft 50 mg per oral daily for depression and Atarax 50 mg per oral three times a day for anxiety. The patient responded well to the treatment and was discharged on day 10 after the resolution of her symptoms with appropriate aftercare in place. Discussion. Depressive and anxiety symptoms usually develop as comorbidity during MG disease. Depressive and anxiety symptoms, besides motor symptoms, have a negative impact on the quality of life. Mental health must be a clinical focus during the treatment of somatic symptoms during MG.
Central Congenital Hypothyroidism Caused by a Novel Mutation, C47W, in the Cysteine Knot Region of TSHβ
Authors: Ebrhim Reham S. , Bruellman Ryan J. , Watanabe Yui , Creech Matthew K. , Abdullah Mohamed A. , Dumitrescu Alexandra M. , Refetoff Samuel , Weiss Roy E.
Published: January 2020

Background: Isolated central congenital hypothyroidism (ICCH) is a rare form (1:50,000 newborns) of congenital hypothyroidism, which can present with growth and neuropsychological retardation. Unlike the more common primary CH (1:1,500–1:4,000), which presents on newborn screening with elevated serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and low thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), ICCH presents with low TSH and low thyroid hormone levels. ICCH, therefore, may be missed in most newborn screens that are based only on elevated TSH. Most cases of ICCH have been associated with mutations in the TSHβ gene. Patient: We present a consanguineous Sudanese family where the proband was diagnosed with “atypical” CH (serum TSH was low, not high). Intervention and Outcome: The propositus underwent whole-exome sequencing, and the C47W TSHβ mutation was identified. Sanger sequencing confirmed the proband to be homozygous for C47W, and both parents were heterozygous for the same mutation. The mutation was predicted by several in silico methods to have a deleterious effect (SIFT 0.0, Damaging; Polyphen2_HDIV 0.973, probably damaging; MutationTaster 1, disease causing; and CADD 3.17, 16.62). C47W affects the first cysteine of the cysteine knot of the TSHβ subunit. The cysteine knot region of TSHβ is highly conserved across species and is critical for binding to the TSH receptor. Only two other mutations were previously reported along the cysteine knot and showed consistently low or undetectable serum TSH and low T4 and T3 levels. Other TSHβ gene mutations causing ICCH have been reported in the “seatbelt” region, necessary for TSHβ dimerization with the alpha subunit. Conclusions: Identification of a mutation in the TSHβ gene reinforces the importance of identifying ICCH that can occur in the absence of elevated serum TSH and demonstrates the functional significance of the TSHβ cysteine knot.
Clinical Outcomes of Dynamic Computed Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Combined With Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Versus Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography–Guided Strategy
Authors: Yu Mengmeng , Shen Chengxing , Dai Xu , Lu Zhigang , Wang Yining , Lu Bin , Zhang Jiayin
Published: January 2020

Background:

Dynamic computed tomography (CT) myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) provides quantitative myocardial blood flow for the precise assessment of myocardial ischemia. However, compared with coronary CT angiography (CCTA), whether this functional imaging modality can reduce invasive coronary angiography without revascularization remains unknown. We aimed to determine the clinical outcomes of a dynamic CT-MPI+CCTA-guided versus CCTA-guided strategy in patients with suspected coronary artery disease.

Methods:

Consecutive patients with intermediate pretest probability of coronary artery disease were prospectively enrolled and randomized to dynamic CT-MPI+CCTA-guided or CCTA-guided workup. The primary end point was the rate of invasive coronary angiography without revascularization within 3 months. The secondary end point was a composite of major adverse cardiac event at the 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year follow-up.

Results:

A total of 240 patients (mean age, 69.01±11.2 years; 173 men) were included. The total radiation dose and contrast media usage within 90 days were higher in the CT-MPI+CCTA group than in the CCTA group (10.3 versus 7.1 mSv,
P
=0.031; 134.5±40.6 versus 108.1±48.2 mL,
P
<0.0001). Compared with the CCTA-guided group, the CT-MPI+CCTA-guided group had significantly lower rates of invasive coronary angiography within 90 days (48.3% [58/120] versus 30.8% [37/120],
P
=0.006) and invasive coronary angiography without revascularization (50.0% [29/58] versus 10.8% [4/37],
P
<0.0001). There were no significant differences regarding the frequency of major adverse cardiac event between the 2 groups at the 3-month, 6-month, and 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

In patients with intermediate pretest probability of coronary artery disease, CT-MPI+CCTA-guided patient management may be preferred over the CCTA-guided strategy as an approach to reduce unnecessary invasive procedures.
Political Expectations and Democracy in the Philippines and Vietnam
Authors: Tria Kerkvliet Benedict J.
Published: January 2020

Superficially, democracy in the Philippines is in better shape than in Vietnam. Yet in terms of being responsive to “the masses,” Vietnam’s government appears to do a better job than does the Philippines’ national government. After exploring this paradox, this article points to issues regarding democracy that need considerably more research.
Building Communities and Simulating the Nation: Politics of Engaging the “Other” in the First Season of Survivor Philippines
Authors: Contreras Antonio P.
Published: January 2020

Modernist and integrationist theories tend to see the process of nation building as a “game” of surviving. However, the idea of a “surviving” nation, which is shaped according to the logic of the game of politics as domination, is antithetical to the organic processes of institution building consistent with the habitus of the diverse social formations which are found in the Philippines. In these organic spaces, a unified community is born not out of an idea of a subordinated “other” being eliminated, but of “others” being accommodated in the larger society. Survival is not an individualistic and Darwinian process of weeding out the weak, but as a communitarian invitation towards a shared meaning system that is drawn from positions of difference, in which the other is not subordinated, but is just different, and in which the idea of sovereignty is not colonizing the sense of autonomy of these different subjectivities. This theoretical argument will be supported by how the Philippine adaptation of the Survivor franchise, through the first season of the reality TV program Survivor Philippines, has effectively confronted the western construct inherent in the very idea of the game, as seen on how it is played in its American versions. How the game was played, crafted and interpreted in its Filipino version has challenged the Machiavellian concept of politics, and the Darwinian idea of survival of the fittest. This is done by depicting the process of building communities from the fragments of multiple identities as one in which the politics of conflict and contestation is resolved not towards elimination and assimilation of the defeated weaker “other,” but of accommodation and tolerance of those who are just different.
Interests, Identities, and Institutions in the Politics of Regional Economic Construction in East Asia
Authors: Batalla Eric Vincent C.
Published: January 2020

This essay examines the politics of regional economic construction in East Asia based on the comparative politics framework of Kopstein and Lichbach (2009). The framework highlights three important aspects of domestic politics, namely: interests, identities, and institutions and relates these aspects to the global (or regional) context. The essay stresses the importance of domestic politics to regional affairs and therefore, should be considered in future assessments of the prospects of regional economic construction. It suggests a research agenda in aid of ongoing regionalization processes.
On the Borders of Law, History and Politics: Estonian Statesman Jüri Jaakson’s Views and Life in Context
Authors: Erne Jaanika
Published: January 2020

Focusing on the life and work of the Estonian politician and Statesman Jüri Jaakson (1870–1942), the article gives an overview of the changing historical and social context that has influenced the formation of Estonian law. Estonia’s historical diversity can be regarded as events of transformation and disruption that have resulted in vague concepts.

The article consists of three interrelated parts, taking into account that law and society are interconnected and that politics is constructed through language. The first part builds on Jüri Jaakson’s presentation at the first Estonian Lawyers’ Days in 1922, and shows how historical events have influenced political and legal conceptualisation. The second part shows how Jüri Jaakson’s own biography tragically reflects the changing Estonian historical context that he himself considered diverse and controversial. Finally, in the third part, some normative assertions have been made in an attempt to show that any legal term always relates to a certain social and political context.

Although the author’s aim has not been to frame a doctrine or provide instruction, but rather, with the help of Jüri Jaakson’s thoughts situated in the context of his time, to offer a moral measure for understanding the developments that could influence small states, it offers a measure for understanding why societies require (new) conceptualisation and re-conceptualisation. Conceptualisation is understood as constructing something new that we cannot identify in the past, while reconceptualisation is understood as change, also resulting from discontinuity and/or interruption. Because there are no unchangeable social categories or meanings, continuity can at best mean a situation where the research objects have remained more static over a concrete period.

Methodologically this article is an attempt to connect legal research with a conceptual historical approach.
Case Law of the European Court of Human Rights as a Source of Human Rights Law
Authors: Ziemele Ineta
Published: January 2020

The European Court of Human Rights with its case law has been for decades a particularly important actor in developing human rights law in Europe and beyond. At the same time the question as to the legal nature of its case law has not received a single answer. Most traditionally, the answer to this question has been that case law is binding on all States parties to the Convention at least to the extent that it contains lex interpretata as part of the Court’s authoritative interpretation of the Convention entrusted to it by the founding States of the Convention regime. In accordance with the Convention’s Article 46, judgments of the Court are binding on the respondent State. At the same time, judgments are followed more generally by the Contracting Parties while the Court’s case law has added to the original – admittedly open-ended – text of the Convention. This article explores the impact of civil law tradition, Anglo-Saxon tradition and the theory of sources of international law on better conceptualization of the legal nature of the case law of the Court. It arrives at the conclusion that at least for the time being, there is a coherent tendency in more advanced legal systems to acknowledge that the courts and judges do occasionally make law. The example of the European Court of Human Rights goes along with these developments. It is argued that case law is a material source of law while the overall consolidation of the Convention system begs for the conclusion that the Court’s case law has become a formal source of law.
Introduction: New Perspectives on John Ogilvie’s Martyrdom, the Society of Jesus, and Scottish Catholicism during the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries
Authors: Goatman Paul
Published: January 2020

The Society of Jesus’s mission in Scotland lasted from 1581 until the papal suppression of 1773, yet the Jesuits’ impact on religious life there during this period remains an underexplored aspect of Scotland’s early modern history. The articles in this special issue offer fresh perspectives on the mission, with particular attention paid to one of its most dramatic and controversial events—the trial and execution of John Ogilvie for treason in Glasgow during the autumn and winter of 1614–15. Fresh insights are provided here on Ogilvie’s martyrdom from the perspective of local and international politics and Jesuit theology. The familiar theme of the Jesuits’ attempted conversion of James vi and i is also revisited, and new research is presented on Catholicism in seventeenth-century Scotland in articles about the Jesuits’ work in the Highlands and their appeal to the memory of the medieval Queen Saint Margaret. Overall, this issue attests to historians’ enduring fascination with John Ogilvie’s martyrdom and what it can teach us about religion, politics and society in early modern Scotland, and the potential of the Jesuits’ activities there as a rich field for future research.
A new Agave species (Asparagaceae, Agavoideae), from southern Oaxaca, Mexico

Authors: STARR GREG D.
Published: January 2020

A new species, Agave calciphila, endemic to the limestone hills north of Nizanda, Oaxaca, Mexico, is described. Its vegetative and flower morphology place this species in the section Heteracanthae, and close to Agave angustiarum, A. ghiesbreghtii, and A. huehueteca. After a comparison with these three species, A. calciphila was found to have shorter sterile peduncle and flowers.
Barina, Z., Somogyi, G., Pifkó, D. & Rakaj, M. (2018) Checklist of vascular plants of Albania. Phytotaxa 378 (1): 1–339.

Authors: BARINA ZOLTÁN , SOMOGYI GABRIELLA , PIFKÓ DÁNIEL , RAKAJ MARASH
Published: January 2020

N/A
New interpretations of the genus Sinocyrtaspis Liu, 2000 (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Meconematinae) from China
Authors: WANG TAO , XIN YARUI , SHI FUMING
Published: January 2020

In this paper, one new species of the genus Sinocyrtaspis Liu, 2000, i.e. Sinocyrtaspis megalobia sp. nov. and the previously unknown male of Sinocyrtaspis huangshanensis Liu, 2000 are described from China. Meanwhile, Sinocyrtaspis brachycerca Chang, Bian & Shi, 2012 is downgraded to subspecies of Sinocyrtaspis huangshanensis Liu, 2000.
Nesting biology and distribution of Stenancistrocerus (Paratropancistrocerus) obstrictus (Morawitz, 1895) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae)
Authors: FATERYGA ALEXANDER V.
Published: January 2020

Nesting of Stenancistrocerus obstrictus was studied in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia. Ten nests were observed, six of them were dissected and their structure was studied. The nests were located in preexisting holes in a clayey cliff. Females searched for a place for the nest during more than a day. The holes with nests were 2.5–10.5 cm in length and 3–4 mm in diameter. Nest entrances were surmounted by laced earthen turrets curved downwards. The maximum length of a turret was 2 cm; the turrets had more laced structure at their distal ends while they became more solid towards the base. Nests consisted of a row of 3–10 cells separated by thin mud partitions. The cells were 5–9 mm in length. All lateral walls of the cells, as well as the vestibular cell were lined with a thin layer of mud. Females collected the building material outside the nests; they mixed clayey earth with regurgitated liquid and formed mud pellets used for the nest construction. Complete nests were sealed by final plugs; their turrets were dismantled by the females. The provision was tiny larvae of an unidentified curculionid beetle; several dozens of them were stored per cell. No parasites and associates were found in the nests. Reproductive success amounted to 92%. Adult feeding was recorded on flowers of Tamarix hohenackeri. The species is univoltine; hibernation occurs at the prepupa stage. Adult wasps are active from the end of May to the end of July. Nesting biology of the genus Stenancistrocerus and its phylogenetic position are discussed. Such a type of the nesting could be regarded as intermediate between nesting in various preexisting cavities and the excavation of burrows in an earthen substrate. The distribution of S. obstrictus is summarized; it includes Russia (Astrakhan Prov., Kalmykia, Stavropol Terr., Dagestan), Armenia, and Azerbaijan; the presence of the species in Eastern Europe is confirmed. The lectotype of Odynerus obstrictus Morawitz, 1895 is designated.
A new genus and two new species of stoneflies (Plecoptera: Perlodidae) from Guizhou Province, China
Authors: HUO QING-BO , DU YU-ZHOU
Published: January 2020

A new genus of family Perlodidae, Parisoperla Huo & Du, gen. nov. is described including two new species from Guizhou Province in southwestern China. Both sexes of the new genus are characterized by the posterior margin of tergum 10 with a sclerotized process. The male membranous aedeagus is covered ventrally by patches of fine spines.
Review of Mesozoic Perissommatidae (Insecta: Diptera)
Authors: LUKASHEVICH ELENA D. , BLAGODEROV VLADIMIR A.
Published: January 2020

Perissommatidae is a peculiar relict nematoceran family with one extant genus inhabiting Australia and South America. The family is known since the Middle Jurassic, but the fossil record is very poor and is restricted to Asia. The description of three species of Collessomma gen. nov. from Lower Cretaceous of Transbaikalia and Mongolia—C. sibirica sp. nov., C. gnoma sp. nov., and C. mongolica sp. nov.—expands our understanding of the family in the Mesozoic, when Perissommatidae were much more diverse morphologically and spread geographically then now. Two previously described genera Gurvaniella Kovalev, 1986 and Limnorhyphus Hong, 1983 are transferred to the Perissommatidae.
The genus Haplidia Hope in Lebanon (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae: Rhizotrogini)
Authors: MONTREUIL OLIVIER , ULIANA MARCO , SEHNAL RICHARD
Published: January 2020

New data are given for some species of the genus Haplidia Hope, 1837 belonging to Lebanese fauna or recorded from Lebanon. Haplidia petrovitzi Baraud, 1988, and H. chaifensis Kraatz, 1882, are recorded for the first time from Lebanon. Haplidia endroedii Baraud, 1988 and H. baudii Kraatz, 1892, are removed from the Lebanese fauna. After type examination, Haplidia fissa Burmeister, 1855, is recognized as belonging to the genus Medeotrogus Keith, 2001, and the species recorded under this name from Lebanon is described and named Haplidia karlaeschneiderae Sehnal, Montreuil & Uliana, new species. Haplidia villosicollis Kraatz, 1882, is recorded for the first time from Jordan, and H. joannis Baraud, 1988, from Israel. Correctness of the name Haplidia versus Aplidia is also established.
Low Temperature Growth of CVD Nanocrystalline Diamond Thin Film by Designed SWP-CVD with Various Working Pressures
Authors: Park Yeong Min , Han Moon Ki , Bae Mun Ki , Kim Tae Gyu
Published: January 2020

Nanocrystalline diamond (NCD) is exceptionally useful for a variety of applications and is of significant interest to researchers in technological and scientific fields due to its excellent mechanical and chemical properties, such as its hardness and high thermal conductivity. We have
modified a microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD; Astex Inc.) system with a slot antenna designed for surface wave plasma (SWP) and successfully fabricated high quality thin NCD film. This SWP-CVD process fabricates high quality diamond film at 300 °C, while a normal MPCVD
process requires the temperature of the substrate to be above 800 °C. We studied the fabricated NCD samples in detail, measuring their surface morphology by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM); their structural-chemical properties by Raman spectroscopy; and their surface
roughness by atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Nano-Precipitated Phase and Evolution of Al-Cu-Mg Alloy Subjected to Rapid Cold Stamping
Authors: Fan Caihe , Ou Ling , Yang Jianjun , Chen Xihong
Published: January 2020

High-resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and hardness test were used to study the nano-precipitates and evolution of nano-precipitation of the sprayformed fine-grained Al-Cu-Mg alloy during rapid cold stamping deformation. Results
show that the elongated S-phase and the acicular ' phase of the Al-Cu-Mg alloy after three passes of cold stamping of rapid cold-shock deformation undergoes re-dissolution, and a large number of the fine granular balance  phases are precipitated after
four passes of rapid cold-stamping deformation. The main mechanism of low-temperature re-dissolution of S' phase and ' phase in Al-Cu-Mg alloy induced by rapid cold stamping deformation is the precipitation phase fracture, grain boundary diffusion, and
vacancy diffusion. The change in the hardness of the alloy during rapid cold stamping deformation is affected by the combination of phase-resolving softening, work hardening, and reprecipitation strengthening and increases at three stages. The hardness increases from 55 HB to 125 HB, which
is increased by 127%.
Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders Presenting as an External Nasal Deformity: A Case Report
Authors: Yuan Jingjing , Yan Zhanfeng , Liu Jinfeng , Wang Ningyu
Published: January 2020

Introduction:

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a serious disease that usually occurs after solid organ transplant and stem cell transplant. Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder often involves the head and neck, but it is rare to present as a nasal deformity. Here, we describe a case of external nasal enlargement resulting from PTLD.

Case report:

A 40-year-old man presented with an enlarged external nose half a year ago. The nasal ala thickened, and the external nose was gradually enlarged, accompanied by bilateral nasal obstructions. A biopsy was taken under endoscopy procedure, and the result suggested a diagnosis of PTLD.

Discussion:

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder usually appears in lymphoid tissues that form Waldeyer’s rings or cervical lymph nodes in the head and neck. The early involvement of other head and neck subpoints is considered rare. This case is the first report of PTLD presenting as an external nasal deformity. The symptoms and clinical manifestations of PTLD in otorhinolaryngology are usually diverse and nonspecific but are early symptoms in the clinical course of PTLD.
Urine metabolomics signatures in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome
Authors: Hsu Wei-Hsiang , Wang Shuu-Jiun , Chao Yen-Ming , Chen Chao-Jung , Wang Yen-Feng , Fuh Jong-Ling , Chen Shih-Pin , Lin Yun-Lian
Published: January 2020

Background

The pathophysiology of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is unclear. An unbiased systems-based approach might help to illustrate the metabolite profiling and underlying pathophysiology.

Methods

Urine samples were collected from reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome patients and matched controls recruited in Taipei Veterans General Hospital. 1H-Nuclear magnetic resonance was used to initially explore the metabolic profile, and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was then used to identify metabolic alterations in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Untargeted metabolite screening was randomly performed on 10 reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome patients and 10 control subjects in the discovery phase. The selected untargeted metabolites were further validated on 47 reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome patients during their ictal stage (with 40 of them having remission samples) and 47 controls in the replication phase.

Results and conclusion

Six metabolites-hippurate, citrate, 1,3,7-trimethyluric acid, ascorbic acid, D-glucurono-6,3-lactone, and D- threo-isocitric acid-with t-test derived p-value < 0.05 and VIP score >1, were identified as potential urine signatures that can well distinguish reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome subjects at ictal stage from controls. Among them, citrate, hippurate, ascorbic acid, and D-glucurono-6,3-lactone were significantly lower, and 1,3,7-trimethyluric acid and D- threo-isocitric acid were higher in reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome patients. Of these, four selected metabolites, citrate, D-glucurono-6,3-lactone, ascorbic acid, and 1,3,7-trimethyluric acid, returned to normal levels in remission. These metabolites are related to pathways associated with free radical scavenging, with the hub molecules being associated with endothelial dysfunction or sympathetic overactivity. Whether these metabolites and their implicated networks play a role in the pathogenesis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome remains to be confirmed.
Exploring Undergraduate Nursing Students’ Experiences of Engaging With a Dialectical Behavior Therapy-Skills Group Intervention: Findings of a Thematic Analysis
Authors: Beanlands Heather , McCay Elizabeth , Wang Angel , Aiello Andria , Schwind Jasna , Martin Lori Schindel , Mina Elaine Santa , Rose Donald , Fredericks Suzanne , Newman Kristine
Published: January 2020

Study Background

Nursing students often have high levels of stress leading to negative consequences for academic performance and overall well-being. Novel strategies are needed to help students manage stress.

Purpose

To explore students’ experiences with an evidence-based intervention—Dialectical Behavior Therapy-Skills Group (DBT-SG).

Methods

We conducted a mixed-methods study to pilot test a DBT-SG intervention, modified for use with undergraduate nursing students. Qualitative data collected as part of this study included focus groups and written responses on a study questionnaire. Thematic analysis of these data was undertaken to explore how students experienced the intervention. The results of this analysis are reported here.

Results

Five themes were uncovered: experiencing stress and de-stressing, feeling accepted and validated, acquiring skills, shifting perspectives, and enhanced well-being.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that by engaging with DBT-SG, nursing students felt accepted and validated, acquired a variety of skills to cope with stress, as well as developed new perspectives, such as the value of practicing self-care, which contributed to enhanced well-being. Future research could build on these results by further exploring how to best create accepting and validating learning environments where students are encouraged to develop interpersonal relationship skills and enact self-care to further support their well-being and professional development.
Survey on Olfactory Testing by Pediatric Neurologists: Is the Olfactory a “True” Cranial Nerve?
Authors: Sarnat Harvey B. , Flores-Sarnat Laura
Published: January 2020

Background:

The olfactory nerve was conceptualized in the 4th century BC by Alcmaeon and described anatomically by Winslow in 1733. Cranial nerves (CNs) were named and numbered by Soemmerring in 1791. Notions still prevail that the olfactory (CN1) is not a “true” cranial nerve.

Methods:

To confirm our impression that the olfactory nerve is infrequently tested by North American pediatric neurologists, a survey was distributed to members of national pediatric neurology societies in Mexico, Canada, and the United States. A total of 233 responses were received to 6 multiple-choice questions regarding practice patterns examining CN1 in neonates and children and in metabolic, endocrine, and genetic disorders and cerebral malformations. Two of the questions addressed familiarity with neonatal olfactory reflexes and asked whether the olfactory is a “true” cranial nerve.

Results:

Only 16% to 24% of North American pediatric neurologists examine CN1 in neonates, even in conditions in which olfaction may be impaired. About 40% of respondents were aware of olfactory reflexes. A minority 15% did not consider CN1 as a “true” cranial nerve.

Conclusions:

Olfactory evaluation in neonates is simple, rapid, and inexpensive. It tests parts of the brain not otherwise examined. It may assist diagnosis in cerebral malformations; metabolic, endocrine, and hypoxic encephalopathies; and some genetic diseases, including chromosomopathies. CN1 is neuroanatomically unique and fulfills criteria of a true sensory cranial nerve. We recommend that olfaction be routinely or selectively included during neurologic examination of neonates and children.
Body Maps of Moral Concerns
Authors: Atari Mohammad , Mostafazadeh Davani Aida , Dehghani Morteza
Published: January 2020

It has been proposed that somatosensory reaction to varied social circumstances results in feelings (i.e., conscious emotional experiences). Here, we present two preregistered studies in which we examined the topographical maps of somatosensory reactions associated with violations of different moral concerns. Specifically, participants in Study 1 ( N = 596) were randomly assigned to respond to scenarios involving various moral violations and were asked to draw key aspects of their subjective somatosensory experience on two 48,954-pixel silhouettes. Our results show that body patterns corresponding to different moral violations are felt in different regions of the body depending on whether individuals are classified as liberals or conservatives. We also investigated how individual differences in moral concerns relate to body maps of moral violations. Finally, we used natural-language processing to predict activation in body parts on the basis of the semantic representation of textual stimuli. We replicated these findings in a nationally representative sample in Study 2 ( N = 300). Overall, our findings shed light on the complex relationships between moral processes and somatosensory experiences.
How Can Small and Medium Enterprises Effectively Implement Corporate Social Responsibility?: An Indian Perspective
Authors: Dawar Gaurav , Singh Seema
Published: January 2020

The current study is a strategic approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR); the aim is to put forward the factors of CSR activities that enhance its effectiveness for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). To achieve this objective, the factors were extracted from the literature and described along with trusteeship theory of Mahatma Gandhi, and an exploratory study was conducted and data were collected using structured questionnaire based on pretested scale from 158 SMEs and tested using partial least square regression (PLSR). The statistics shows the overall model fit, and the findings indicate a significant relationship with effective CSR. The results of the study are in accordance with the previous research work, and we also find that environment-related CSR and partnership are crucial for the effectiveness of CSR in SMEs, stakeholders’ role are important and SMEs’ CSR practice is still informal. The variables identified from study will help SMEs in establishing a formal approach towards CSR and meeting the needs of business and society in the twenty-first century.
Comparative investigation of ultrasonic cavitation erosion for three materials in deionized water
Authors: Opare Wisdom , Kang Can , Wei Xiao , Liu Haixia , Wang Hualu
Published: January 2020

To investigate the response of material to cavitation erosion, a comparative work was carried out on three materials, aluminum, copper alloy and titanium. Ultrasonic cavitation erosion was produced as the specimen was submerged in the deionized water. Within a cavitation erosion period of 120 min, the cumulative mass loss was measured at certain time intervals. Surface structure and cavitation damage patterns were observed for the three materials. Microhardness was measured and compared. The results indicate that the cumulative mass loss of aluminum is the highest among the three materials, while the slightest material removal is associated with titanium, which is still in the initial stage of cavitation erosion after 120 min of cavitation erosion. The surface of the aluminum specimen is eroded rapidly after the cavitation erosion commences. Large erosion pits dominate the eroded surface as the cavitation erosion progresses. The surface of the titanium specimen manifests needle-like erosion pits and cleavage cracks. Even at the later stage of the cavitation erosion, non-eroded surface elements are identifiable. The cavitation erosion pattern on the copper alloy specimen surface is related to the twin-phase crystal structure and large erosion pits are produced at the later stage of cavitation erosion. The highest resistance to the cavitation erosion of titanium is related to the close-packed hexagonal structure and the weak slip effect associated.
Connectivity, Community, and Kinship as Strategies to Foster Queer and Trans College Student Retention
Authors: Pitcher Erich N. , Simmons S. L.
Published: January 2020

Given that multiple forms of oppression are endemic to higher education, strategies intended to retain queer and trans college students should mirror the strategies of survival and thriving found within queer and trans communities. Fostering and bolstering connections, community, and kinship among queer and trans college students through a lens of multiplicities of identities will better support queer and trans students’ retention. For example, some queer and trans students may depart from an institution—whether temporary or long term to support their own well-being and identity development, given the various forms of oppression that higher education institutions instantiate and exacerbate. We call on higher education leaders to take seriously their role in reducing or eliminating the harm caused to queer and trans college students. Queer and trans college students are resilient within hostile environments and have agency about their educational trajectories.
Added Value of Interactive 3-D Stereo Vision Echocardiography in the Heart Valve Team: A Post Hoc Analysis for Optimal Decision Making in Patients With Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Pisowodzka Izabela K. , Gründeman Paul F. , Meijboom Folkert , van Aarnhem Guido , Meijer Ronald , Cramer Maarten J. , Teske Arco J. , van der Spoel Tycho , Wind Annemieke , Dieleman Stefan , Suyker Willem , Chamuleau Steven A. J.
Published: January 2020

Objective

We assessed the added value of advanced echocardiography post hoc analysis for optimal decision-making in the Heart Valve Team (HVT) using an interactive, dynamic, live visualization system with true three-dimensional (3-D) stereo vision.

Methods

HVT scrutinized the incremental value of 3 consecutive methods of presentation of full-volume echocardiographic data sets in terms of diagnosis and possibility of repair in 11 selected patients having mitral regurgitation (MR)(Table 1). The questionnaire investigated consecutively (a) standard two-dimensional (2-D) transesophageal echocardiography, (b) single-beat 3-D zoom of the surgical view of the mitral valve, and (c) advanced 3-D volumetric rendering technology (Personal Space Station, Vesalius 3D software, PS-Medtech, Netherlands).

Results

In 4 of 11 reviews (36%), single-beat 3-D zoom had additional value over 2-D echocardiography in terms of mechanism/adjustments or adjustment of confirmation of diagnosis. Single-beat 3-D zoom had no additional value over 2-D echocardiography in terms of proposal/probability of repair. In 7 out of 11 (64%) reviews, true stereo 3-D visualization had additional value in terms of mechanism of pathology compared to 2-D and 3-D zoom and in 5 out of 11 (45%) reviews in confirmation of diagnosis. In 3 out of 11 (27%) reviews, true stereo 3-D visualization had additional value in terms of proposal of repair and in 4 of 11 (36%) in probability of repair over 2-D and 3-D zoom.

Conclusions

Advanced easy-to-use true 3-D echocardiography limited differences in interpretation and strengthened the confidence in understanding the mechanisms and suitability for repair of mitral valve regurgitation, typically in more complex valve pathology.
Physician Self-disclosure of Lived Experience Improves Mental Health Attitudes Among Medical Students: A Randomized Study
Authors: Martin Andrés , Chilton Julie , Gothelf Doron , Amsalem Doron
Published: January 2020

Introduction:

Depression and suicidal ideation are common among medical students, a group at higher risk for suicide completion than their age-normed peers. Medical students have health-seeking behaviors that are not commensurate with their mental health needs, a discrepancy likely related to stigma and to limited role-modeling provided by physicians.

Methods:

We surveyed second-year medical students using the Attitudes to Psychiatry (ATP-30) and Attitudes to Mental Illness (AMI) instruments. In addition, we asked questions about role-modeling and help-seeking attitudes at baseline. We then conducted a randomized trial of an intervention consisting of 2 components: (a) a panel of 2 physicians with personal histories of mental illness speaking about their diagnosis, treatment, and recovery to the students, immediately followed by (b) small-group facilitated discussions. We repeated the ATP-30 and AMI after the active/early group was exposed to the panel, but before the control/late group was similarly exposed.

Results:

Forty-three medical students participated (53% women). The majority of students (91%) agreed that knowing physicians further along in their careers who struggled with mental health issues, got treatment, and were now doing well would make them more likely to access care if they needed it. Students in the active group (n = 22) had more favorable attitudes on ATP-30 ( P = .01) and AMI ( P = .02) scores, as compared with the control group (n = 21).

Conclusion:

Medical students can benefit from the availability of, and exposure to physicians with self-disclosed histories of having overcome mental illnesses. Such exposures can favorably improve stigmatized views about psychiatry, or of patients or colleagues affected by psychopathology. This intervention has the potential to enhance medical students’ mental health and their health-seeking behaviors.
Change in popliteal angle and hamstrings spasticity during childhood in ambulant children with spastic bilateral cerebral palsy. A register-based cohort study
Authors: Fosdahl Merete Aarsland , Jahnsen Reidun , Pripp Are Hugo , Holm Inger
Published: January 2020

Background

Muscle contractures are developing during childhood and may cause extensive problems in gait and every day functioning in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of the present study was to evaluate how the popliteal angle (PA) and hamstrings spasticity change during childhood in walking children with spastic bilateral CP.

Methods

The present study was a longitudinal register-based cohort study including 419 children (1–15 years of age) with spastic bilateral CP, gross motor function classification system (GMFCS) level I, II and III included in the Norwegian CP Follow-up Program (CPOP). From 2006 to 2018 a total of 2193 tests were performed. The children were tested by trained physiotherapists yearly or every second year, depending on GMFCS level and age. The PA and the hamstrings spasticity (Modified Ashworth scale (MAS)) were measured at every time point. Both legs were included in the analysis.

Results

There was an increase in PA with age for all three GMFCS levels with significant differences between the levels from 1 up to 8 years of age. At the age of 10 years there was no significant difference between GMFCS level II and III. At the age of 14 years all three GMFCS levels had a mean PA above 40° and there were no significant differences between the groups. The hamstrings spasticity scores for all the three GMFCS levels were at the lower end of the MAS (mean < 1+), however they were significantly different from each other until 8 years of age. The spasticity increased the first four years in all three GMFCS levels, thereafter the level I and II slightly increased, and level III slightly decreased, until the age of 15 years.

Conclusion

The present study showed an increasing PA during childhood. There were significantly different PAs between GMFCS level I, II and III up to 8 years of age. At the age of 14 years all levels showed a PA above 40°. The spasticity increased up to 4 years of age, but all the spasticity scores were at the lower end of the MAS during childhood.
New doctor-patient communication learning software to help interns succeed in communication skills
Authors: Sun Chao , Zou Junkai , Zhao Lanbo , Wang Qing , Zhang Shaozhi , Ulain Qurat , Song Qing , Li Qiling
Published: January 2020

Background

Nowadays, the research of doctor-patient communication is becoming increasingly important not only in China but also around the world.

Methods

The study designs a type of learning software to train the interns to advance their communication skills, and whose validity for improving doctor-patient communication in self-controlled trials is evaluated. With the aid of the new learning software, the self-controlled tests were carried out among 183 interns to assess the quality of their communication skill acquisition. The learning effectiveness of the preparation stage, information collection, information given, patient understanding, and inquisition ending was evaluated with the Set Elicit Give Understand End (SEGUE) framework after 3 months of training.

Results

More interns (37.16% vs. 10.98%, P < 0.001) could accurately identify the psychosocial or emotional factors contributing to the diseases. An increased number of interns (42.62% vs. 10.40%, P < 0.001) were able to openly discuss lifestyle issues and prevention strategies with patients. The study also revealed that interns who had completed training tended to allow patients more time to describe their feelings and concerns about their illnesses. In addition, more of the trained interns roved capable of being caring and respectful to patients and showing empathetic communication behavior (53.01% vs. 26.59%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The doctor-patient communication software may help the interns known more about communication skills.
Exosomes overexpressing miR-34c inhibit malignant behavior and reverse the radioresistance of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wan Fang-Zhu , Chen Kai-Hua , Sun Yong-Chu , Chen Xi-Chan , Liang Ren-Ba , Chen Li , Zhu Xiao-Dong
Published: January 2020

Background

Malignant behavior and radioresistance, which severely limits the efficacy of radiation therapy (RT) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), are associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are used as a therapeutic tool in a variety of tumors. The aim of this study was to reveal the effect of tumor suppressor microRNA-34c-5p (miR-34c) on NPC development and radioresistance, as well as to confirm that exosomes derived from MSCs overexpressing miR-34c restore the sensitivity to radiotherapy in NPCs.

Methods

Potentially active microRNAs were screened by cell sequencing, Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database analysis, and analysis of clinical serum samples from 70 patients. The expression of genes and proteins was detected by Western blotting, quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration and radioresistance of NPC were detected. Luciferase reporter assays were used to verify the interactions of microRNAs with their downstream targets. MSCs exosomes were isolated by ultrafiltration and verified by electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking technology.

Results

The expression of miR-34c was associated with the occurrence and radiation resistance of NPC. In vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that overexpression of miR-34c inhibit malignant behavior such as invasion, migration, proliferation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in NPCs by targeting β-Catenin. In addition, we found alleviated radioresistance upon miR-34c overexpression or β-catenin knockdown in NPCs. Exosomes derived from miR-34c-transfected MSCs attenuated NPC invasion, migration, proliferation and EMT. Moreover, miR-34c-overexpressing exosomes drastically increased radiation-induced apoptosis in NPC cells.

Conclusion

miR-34c is a tumor suppressor miR in NPC, which inhibits malignant behavior as well as radioresistance of tumor. Therefore, exogenous delivery of miR-34c to NPCs via MSC exosomes inhibits tumor progression and increases the efficiency of RT. Combination IR with miR-34c-overexpressing exosomes may be effective treatment for radioresistant NPCs.
Online-group intervention after suicide bereavement through the use of webinars: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wagner Birgit , Hofmann Laura , Maaß Ulrike
Published: January 2020

Introduction

The death of a significant person through suicide is a very difficult experience and can have long-term impact on an individual’s psychosocial and physical functioning. However, there are only few studies that have examined the effects of interventions in suicide survivors. In the present study, we examine an online-group intervention for people bereaved by suicide using a group-webinar.

Methods

The intervention was developed based on focus groups with the target group. The cognitive-behavioral 12-module webinar-based group intervention focuses on suicide bereavement-related themes such as feelings of guilt, stigmatization, meaning reconstruction and the relationship to the deceased. Further, the webinar includes testimonial videos and psychoeducation. The suicide survivors are randomized to the intervention or the waiting list in a group-cluster randomized controlled trial. Primary outcomes are suicidality (Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation) and depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II) and secondary outcomes are symptoms of prolonged grief disorder (Inventory of Complicated Grief-German Version ), posttraumatic stress disorder ( Revised Impact of Event Scale ), stigmatization (Stigma of Suicide and Suicide Survivor ) and posttraumatic cognitions (Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory).

Discussion

Previous studies of Internet-based interventions for the bereaved were based on writing interventions showing large treatment effects. Little is known about the use of webinars as group interventions. Advantages and challenges of this novel approach of psychological interventions will be discussed.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register,DRKS00014426. Registered on 12 April 2018.

Protocol Version

3, 21.10.2019.