A derivation of the Polytomous Rasch model based on the most probable distribution method.

Boltzmann's most probable distribution method is applied to derive the Polytomous Rasch model as the distribution accounting for the maximum number of possible outcomes in a test while introducing latent traits, item characteristics, and thresholds as constraints to the system. Affinities and similarities of the present result with other derivations of the model are discussed in light of the conceptual frameworks of statistical physics and of the principle of maximum entropy.

Meninges: from protective membrane to stem cell niche.

Meninges are a three tissue membrane primarily known as coverings of the brain. More in depth studies on meningeal function and ultrastructure have recently changed the view of meninges as a merely protective membrane. Accurate evaluation of the anatomical distribution in the CNS reveals that meninges largely penetrate inside the neural tissue.

Cardiometabolic comorbidities and the approach to patients with psoriasis.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory, immune-mediated skin disease, which may cause significant deterioration in the quality of life. Recent evidence indicates that psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are frequently associated with cardiometabolic diseases including myocardial infarction, stroke, diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Although the causal relationship between cardiometabolic comorbidities and psoriasis has not yet been completely proven, it appears that obesity is a relevant risk factor for the development of psoriasis and metabolic syndrome.

Possible reasons for lack of effect of allergen avoidance in atopy-prone infants and sensitive asthmatic patients.

The basic paradigm that allergen exposure produces atopic sensitization, and that continued exposure leads to clinical asthma throughout the development of airway inflammation and bronchial hyperreactivity has been challenged. However, because it was observed that epidemiological evidence suggests that around 40% of asthma cases are attributable to atopy (even using restrictive criteria), the obvious corollary is that if allergen avoidance begins before the onset of sensitization (primary prevention), then it should be associated with a reduced number of new cases of the disease. However, there are conflicting results regarding the effect of allergen avoidance on primary prevention of atopic sensitization and asthma onset.

Relationship between insulin and carotid atherosclerosis in the general population. The Bruneck Study.

Background And Purpose: Although several studies have investigated the association between insulin and coronary heart disease, the relationship between this hormone and carotid atherosclerosis is not well established.

Methods: As a part of a population-based survey on atherosclerosis and its risk factors, serum insulin was measured at fasting (n = 888) and at 2 hours after an oral glucose load (n = 811; known diabetic subjects were excluded). The study population comprised an age- and sex-stratified random sample of men and women aged 40 to 79 years.