bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Patients and Oncologists Discuss the Cost of Cancer Treatment? An Observational Study of Clinical Interactions Between African American Patients and Their Oncologists
Authors: Hamel Lauren M. , Penner Louis A. , Eggly Susan , Chapman Robert , Klamerus Justin F. , Simon Michael S. , Stanton Sarah C.E. , Albrecht Terrance L.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Financial toxicity negatively affects patients with cancer, especially racial/ethnic minorities. Patient-oncologist discussions about treatment-related costs may reduce financial toxicity by factoring costs into treatment decisions. This study investigated the frequency and nature of cost discussions during clinical interactions between African American patients and oncologists and examined whether cost discussions were affected by patient sociodemographic characteristics and social support, a known buffer to perceived financial stress.

Methods

Video recorded patient-oncologist clinical interactions (n = 103) from outpatient clinics of two urban cancer hospitals (including a National Cancer Institute–designated comprehensive cancer center) were analyzed. Coders studied the videos for the presence and duration of cost discussions and then determined the initiator, topic, oncologist response to the patient’s concerns, and the patient’s reaction to the oncologist’s response.

Results:

Cost discussions occurred in 45% of clinical interactions. Patients initiated 63% of discussions; oncologists initiated 36%. The most frequent topics were concern about time off from work for treatment (initiated by patients) and insurance (initiated by oncologists). Younger patients and patients with more perceived social support satisfaction were more likely to discuss cost. Patient age interacted with amount of social support to affect frequency of cost discussions within interactions. Younger patients with more social support had more cost discussions; older patients with more social support had fewer cost discussions.

Conclusion:

Cost discussions occurred in fewer than one half of the interactions and most commonly focused on the impact of the diagnosis on patients’ opportunity costs rather than treatment costs. Implications for ASCO’s Value Framework and design of interventions to improve cost discussions are discussed.
Performance of a Trigger Tool for Identifying Adverse Events in Oncology
Authors: Lipitz-Snyderman Allison , Classen David , Pfister David , Killen Aileen , Atoria Coral L. , Fortier Elizabeth , Epstein Andrew S. , Anderson Christopher , Weingart Saul N.
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Although patient safety is a priority in oncology, few tools measure adverse events (AEs) beyond treatment-related toxicities. The study objective was to assemble a set of clinical triggers in the medical record and assess the extent to which triggered events identified AEs.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study to assess the performance of an oncology medical record screening tool at a comprehensive cancer center. The study cohort included 400 patients age 18 years or older diagnosed with breast (n = 128), colorectal (n = 136), or lung cancer (n = 136), observed as in- and outpatients for up to 1 year.

Results:

We identified 790 triggers, or 1.98 triggers per patient (range, zero to 18 triggers). Three hundred four unique AEs were identified from medical record reviews and existing AE databases. The overall positive predictive value (PPV) of the original tool was 0.40 for total AEs and 0.15 for preventable or mitigable AEs. Examples of high-performing triggers included return to the operating room or interventional radiology within 30 days of surgery (PPV, 0.88 and 0.38 for total and preventable or mitigable AEs, respectively) and elevated blood glucose (> 250 mg/dL; PPV, 0.47 and 0.40 for total and preventable or mitigable AEs, respectively). The final modified tool included 49 triggers, with an overall PPV of 0.48 for total AEs and 0.18 for preventable or mitigable AEs.

Conclusion:

A valid medical record screening tool for AEs in oncology could offer a powerful new method for measuring and improving cancer care quality. Future improvements could optimize the tool’s efficiency and create automated electronic triggers for use in real-time AE detection and mitigation algorithms.
Improving the Management of Patients With Low-Risk Neutropenic Fever at the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute
Authors: Goodman Lindsey Martin , Estfan Bassam , Montero Alberto , Kunapareddy Girish , Lau Jessica , Gallagher Erika , Best Carolyn , Tripp Barb , Moeller Machelle , Bolwell Brian , Stevenson James
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

Neutropenic fever (NF) is an oncologic emergency and has resulted historically in inpatient management. The Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer (MASCC) score can be used to identify patients with NF at a low risk of complications who can be managed safely as outpatients. Despite established guidelines supporting outpatient management of low-risk neutropenic fever (LRNF), provider awareness is low, and inpatient admission for intravenous antibiotics continues to be standard of care.

Methods:

Inpatient provider algorithm implementation and education began in the second quarter of 2014. Providers calculated MASCC scores for patients with nonleukemia hematologic malignancies and solid tumors at admission. Data were collected in a prospectively maintained registry. Patients identified as low risk by MASCC score were placed under observation and started on oral antibiotics. If exclusion criteria and social barriers were not identified, discharge within 48 hours was planned.

Results:

Eighty-three patients with NF were admitted to the Taussig Cancer Institute inpatient oncology unit between November 2014 and June 2015. Fifty-three patients (64%) had LRNF by MASCC score. Patients with LRNF had an average length of stay of 3.3 days, compared with 6.2 days in our historical cohort. Sixteen patients (30%) were discharged within 24 hours. Only two patients with LRNF had a culture-proven infection, both Enterococcus urinary tract infections. Three patients required nonelective readmission. There were no deaths caused by NF.

Conclusion:

This pilot study demonstrates that a formal algorithm for LRNF management combined with provider education can improve current inpatient standard of care and length of stay without an increase in morbidity.
Recent advances in understanding and managing IgG4-related disease
Authors: Wolfson Anna R. , Hamilos Daniel L.
Published: February 2017

IgG4-related disease was only recently discovered, so its description, management, and new discoveries related to its etiology are rapidly evolving. Because IgG4 itself is a unique antibody which is intimately related to the diagnosis of the disease, the role of plasmablasts in the pathophysiology remains an active area of discussion. Recent studies have uncovered a possible role for CD4-positive cytotoxic T lymphocytes, T follicular helper cells, and M2 macrophages. The clinical presentation is variable and can be vague, as this disease affects many organs and new presentations are continuing to be described. The diagnosis depends on clinical and histopathological assessment. The mainstay of treatment is with glucocorticoids, but rituximab has recently shown promise. Monitoring disease activity using imaging modalities (including positron emission tomography) and serum markers is imperative, as relapses are common. IgG4-related disease spans many medical disciplines but is a treatable condition with which all clinicians should be familiar.
Discretization Precision and Assessment Error
Authors: Hammond Robert K. , Bickel J. Eric
Published: February 2017

Continuous probability distributions are often discretized by assigning a weight to each of several percentiles (e.g., the 10th, 50th, and 90th percentiles). Previous work has analyzed the accuracy of various discretization methods. In practice, however, the assessed percentiles may not be precise. In this paper, we compare the performance of several discretization methods when the probability assessments are subject to error. Our results indicate that one should still strive to use the best discretization method even in the face of assessment error. This is particularly true if one is trying to preserve the variance and higher moments of the continuous distribution.
The way forward for patient safety and complaints procedures
Authors: Tingle John
Published: February 2017

John Tingle, Reader in Health Law at Nottingham Trent University, discusses some of the problems facing the NHS in light of two recent reports, and why change seems to be so difficult to achieve
How far are we from a hormonal contraceptive for men?
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: February 2017

A contraceptive pill for men could soon be reality, writes Mark Greener
Impact of spectator motivation on long-term sustainability for women’s basketball league
Authors: Jackson Nicole , Thompson Asia , Lee Minyong , Rotich Jerono , Fuller Tiffany
Published: February 2017

As the league prepares for its 20th season, the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) has experienced some highs and some lows. The purpose of this study was to understand spectator motivation and to assess new strategies that the league could use to better improve the overall product of the game itself. How can the WNBA expand its fan base to help generate enough revenue that can ensure the league can support itself financially? In order to better understand people's attitudes towards the WNBA, we conducted an online survey that we then submitted on social media for people to express their thoughts on what they liked about the league and what they would like to see implemented in the future. The results from our surveys (N=93) showed that the majority of our participants were satisfied with the overall product the WNBA has to offer (affordability and family-oriented atmosphere), yet, it still lacked a certain "excitement" factor that would make the participant want to personally watch or attend a game. We concluded that in order for the league to truly flourish and gain the recognition and financial success it deserves, league executives should consider incorporating new, innovative ideas that can breathe new life into the league for the next 20 years.
Beksiński i źródła wyobraźni
Authors: Jarosz Andrzej
Published: February 2017

This article refers to a “fantastic” period in Zdzisław Beksiński’s painting (1929-2005). The quest for the sources of imagination of this original Polish artist has a broad cultural background. Its horizons are marked by Marcel Brion and Roger Caillois’s research on fantasy as well as G. R. Hocke’s assertion regarding the epoch of mannerism. Taking the above into consideration, it can be stated that imagination has an achronological character and in the case of the herein described painter it was a determinant of his aesthetic style and artistic attitude. His specific creative technique involved breaking with the order of reality, bordering on a dream and using the mannerist-like rhetorical figures. Beksiński’s “fantastic realism” was based on oneiric visions transferred into small drawing sketches. Their range encompassed unconscious elements, dream and nightmare iconography and a-logical narrative structures, which the artist complemented, added nuances and subsequently developed while working on his paintings. Specific motifs, forms and palette of colours and matter encroach on the presence of those primary visions – the authentic “pictures form under eyelids”. However, their anteriority in the act of creation was indisputable. They carried a special meaning for Beksiński by summarising intense sensations derived from reality and dreams, he could, just for a moment, project himself beyond the material world and the reigning of the passing time.
Podróż w czasie jako laboratorium narracji
Authors: Leś Mariusz Maciej
Published: February 2017

Time travel is one of the most popular themes in science fiction. Usually it is discussed from a perspective of technological and scientific possibilities for the realization of fantastic visions. Researchers focus on logical paradoxes implied by traveling back in time. The author of this article, inspired by David Wittenberg’s Time Travel: The Popular Philosophy of Narrative, draws attention to metanarrative functions of time travel theme, which becomes a challenge for writers and narrative techniques.
Historie alternatywne − pomiędzy pisarstwem historycznym a fantastycznym, czyli czasem tertium est datur…
Authors: Lemann Natalia
Published: February 2017

The aim of this article is to define alternative history genre (branch of fantastic literature) as a participating in the historical writing formula (H. White). The author juxtaposes literary studies, literature and history as neighboring branches of humanistic knowledge. Alternate history genre could be displaced as displaced by both, the history and literary studies. This genre, as a type of fantastic literature, is understood as dangerous phantasm, because of fictional abilities. In this article historiography and literary studies are diagnosed as forming a sisterhood relationship. When the opportunity arises, it is shown that the idea of postmodern history is no novelty, since until the decline of the 18th century history did not stand in oppossition to literature. Actually, the way of thinking about history as an (literary) art has a splendid tradition rooted in antiquity. It is shown that, in fact, there is no essential difference between alternate history (as a branch of fantastic literature) and counterfactualism as a methodology of history. It drives the author to a conclusion − by comparison of the methodologies of history and literary studies in the field of narrativity, and, according to Hayden White, comprehends history as a type of fiction, historio-graphia, literary artifact, or historical writing – that the alternative history novel could be understood as a third path to reconcile literary studies and historical studies. The participation of popular culture, where the alternate history genre and fantastic literature traditionally belongs, makes the history and literary studies more transgressive, widely open for the contemporary forms of communication and more hearable.
Licencjonowanie przymusowe w prawie unijnym oraz umowach międzynarodowych wiążących Rzeczpospolitą Polską
Authors: Miszczak Anna
Published: February 2017

Artykuł opisuje wiążące Polskę akty prawa unijnego oraz umowy międzynarodowe, które dotyczą problematyki licencjonowania przymusowego. Licencjonowanie przymusowe to udzielanie licencji przez organ właściwy na patent uprawnionego, bez jego zgody, w ściśle określonych w aktach prawnych przypadkach. Zakres, należne wynagrodzenie, okres trwania czy same warunki licencji przymusowej określa zatem organ właściwy po przeprowadzeniu odpowiedniego postępowania spornego. Mimo że prawo własności intelektualnej cechuje zasada terytorialności we wszystkich przywołanych w artykule aktach prawnych uregulowano warunki, jakich państwa powinny przestrzegać, decydując się na wprowadzenie w swoich ustawodawstwach przepisów odnoszących się do udzielania licencji przymusowych. Jednym z głównych celów każdego z opisywanych w artykule aktów prawnych jest stworzenie takiego systemu licencjonowania przymusowego, który byłby spójny i jak najbardziej ujednolicony na rynkach jak największej liczby państw. Autor artykułu stara się również wskazać powody, dla których licencjonowanie przymusowe tak rzadko znajduje zastosowanie w praktyce.
Imitative statutes
Authors: Smolak Marek
Published: February 2017

This paper seeks to demonstrate that certain enactments in democratic countries where the rule of law is well established are inadmissible in view of their imitative nature. Imitative statutes are normative enactments of parliament which aim at an ostensible solution to a social problem. Ostensibility thus comprehended is accompanied by the absence of will on the part of the legislator to achieve any effect of their activity, as their sole intention is to engender a conviction among the addressed of the norms that such an effect actually takes place. The author discusses four types of reasoning in support of rejecting imitative statutes. These are as follows: first, given non-compliance of legislation with the moral standards of the political community (Ronald Dworkin); second, in view of the imitative goal of the legislator, or absence of a link between a prescribed/prohibited behaviour and the ostensible nature of legislator’s goal (Lon L. Fuller); third, the lack of a rational relationship between a legal prescription and the features of the class of subject/objects to which the prescription applies (Ofer Raban); fourth, the lack of a conventional-moral relationship between the substance of a prescriptive provision and the goal of the legislator (Marek Smolak). The author argues further that argumentation based on the above four reasons should presume that public reason is involved and, consequently, administer the test of the reasonable sceptic as suggested by Ron den Otter.
Challenges relating to comparison of flavonoid glycosides dissolution profiles from Sutherlandia frutescens products
Authors: Mbamalu Oluchi N. , Syce James , Samsodien Halima
Published: February 2017

Unlike the case of conventional drug formulations, dissolution tests have hitherto not been required for herbal medicinal products commercially available in South Africa. This study investigated dissolution of the South African Sutherlandia frutescens using selected flavonoid glycosides as marker compounds. Dissolution of markers was assessed in three dissolution media at pH 1.2, 4.5 and 6.8, and samples were analysed using a validated HPLC method. The dissolution profile of each marker varied for the different materials investigated. All three media utilised showed differences in flavonoid glycoside dissolution between the S. frutescens products evaluated, with f2 values < 50 for comparison of flavonoid dissolution from any two of the materials. Dissolution of S. frutescens materials could thus be characterised using the markers in all the media tested. This tool may be employed in the future for comparison of orally administered S. frutescens products, provided between- batch variability is evaluated and found less than between-sample variability.
Synthesis and antitumor activity of some novel thiophene, pyrimidine, coumarin, pyrazole and pyridine derivatives
Authors: Albratty Mohammed , El-Sharkawy Karam Ahmed , Alam Shamsher
Published: February 2017

2-Cyano-N-(thiazol-2-yl) acetamide (2a) and 2-cyano-N-(oxazol- 2-yl) acetamide (2b) were obtained via the reaction of ethyl cyanoacetate with either 2-aminothiazole (1a) or 2-aminooxazole (1b). The formed products were directed toward the reaction with cyclopentanone and elemental sulfur in the presence of triethylamine to give cyclopenta[b]thiophene derivatives (3a,b). The latter products were reacted with either ethyl cyanoacetate or malononitrile to form compounds 4a,b and 5a,b, respectively. Compounds 4a,b were aimed at synthesizing some heterocyclic compounds; thus internal cyclization reactions were introduced to form compounds 6a,b. Also, compounds 4a,b reacted with salicylaldehyde, hydrazine derivatives and either urea or thiourea to produce coumarin derivatives (7a,b), pyrazole derivatives (8a-d) and pyrimidine derivatives (9a-d), respectively. Reaction of either benzaldehyde or benzene diazonium chloride (11) with compounds 4a,b afforded compounds 10a,b and 12a,b, respectively. On the other hand, compounds 5a,b underwent internal cyclization to form pyrimidine derivatives 13a,b. Also, when compounds 5a,b reacted with either ethyl cyanoacetate or malononitrile, they gave pyridine derivatives (15a-d) through the formation of intermediates (14a-d). Finally, formation of fused pyrimidine derivatives (17a,b) was achieved through the reaction of compounds 5a,b and salicylaldehyde applying two different pathways. The first pathway used a catalytic amount of piperidine to form compounds 16a,b; the latter products underwent cyclization to give compounds 17a,b. The second pathway, using a catalytic amount of sodium ethoxide solution directly in one step, afforded compounds 17a,b. Structures of the newly synthesized compounds were established using IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectrometry and their antitumor activity was investigated. Some of these compounds showed promising inhibitory effects on three different cell lines. However, fused pyrimidine acetonitrile derivatives 6a and 6b exerted the highest inhibitory effect, comparable to that of doxorubicin.
Hydrazinyldiene-chroman-2,4-diones in inducing growth arrest and apoptosis in breast cancer cells: Synergism with doxorubicin and correlation with physicochemical properties
Authors: Ballazhi Lulzime , Imeri Faik , Jashari Ahmed , Popovski Emil , Stojković Goran , Dimovski Aleksandar J. , Mikhova Bozhana , Mladenovska Kristina
Published: February 2017

This study evaluates the effects of previously synthesized hydrazinyldiene-chroman-2,4-diones on cell proliferation and apoptosis, cell cycle distribution and migration capacity of MCF-7 breast cancer cells in synergy with doxorubicin. Physicochemical properties of the synthesized compounds were correlated with their structure and activity. Significant cell viability decrease in comparison with the effect of doxorubicin alone and the reference 4-hydroxycoumarin was observed when combination treatment comprising doxorubicin and the title compounds was applied. Synergistic effect with doxorubicin was also observed in down-regulation of phospho-Thr308Akt levels, confirming reduced proliferation and increased apoptosis. Combined treatment increased the percentage of cells arrested at the G2/M stage. Additive inhibition of cell migration was also observed, pointing to the possibility of reducing the risk of metastases. With their solubility profile and log D7.4, all the synthesized compounds follow Lipinski’s rule of five for good permeability (absorption) potential.
Formulation and pharmaceutical development of quetiapine fumarate sustained release matrix tablets using a QbD approach
Authors: Gavan Alexandru , Porfire Alina , Marina Cristina , Tomuta Ioan
Published: February 2017

The main objective of the present study was to apply QbD methodology in the development of once-a-day sustained release quetiapine tablets. The quality target product profile (QTPP) was defined after the pharmaceutical properties and kinetic release of the innovator product, Seroquel XR 200 mg. For the D-optimal experimental design, the level and ratio of matrix forming agents and the type of extragranular diluent were chosen as independent inputs, which represented critical formulation factors. The critical quality attributes (CQAs) studied were the cumulative percentages of quetiapine released after certain time intervals. After the analysis of the experimental design, optimal formulas and the design space were defined. Optimal formulas demonstrated zero-order release kinetics and a dissolution profile similar to the innovator product, with f2 values of 74.53 and 83.74. It was concluded that the QbD approach allowed fast development of sustained release tablets with similar dissolution behavior as the innovator product.
Relationship between metabolic phenotypes and genotypes of CYP1A2 and CYP2A6 in the Nigerian population
Authors: Adehin Ayorinde , Bolaji Oluseye O. , Maggo Simran , Kennedy Martin A.
Published: February 2017

Background:

CYP1A2 and CYP2A6 are polymorphic drug-metabolising enzymes that are also implicated in the activation of procarcinogens in humans. Some of their alleles and haplotypes, often varied in prevalence across populations, are thought to influence activity despite the known contribution of environmental factors. This study assessed the potential influence of some genetic variants of CYP1A2 and CYP2A6 on metabolic phenotypes in Nigerians.

Methods:

Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples of 100 healthy, unrelated subjects for whom CYP1A2 and CYP2A6 phenotypes had previously been determined, alongside an additional 80 other individuals for whom phenotype data were unavailable. The samples were screened for CYP1A2 (*1C,*1D,*1E,*1F, *3,*4,*6,*7) and CYP2A6 (*9,*11,*17) alleles using the Sequenom MassARRAY platform for some alleles and direct Sanger sequencing for others. The genetic data acquired were subsequently analysed for haplotypes and assessed for concordance with phenotypes.

Results:

All five CYP1A2 haplotypes (CYP1A2*1F, 1J, 1N, 1L, 1W) identified in the Nigerian population were not significantly predictive of metabolic phenotypes. Heterozygous CYP1A2*1J carriers and homozygous CYP1A2*1W carriers showed statistically insignificant decrease in CYP1A2 activity. The CYP2A6*9/*17 genotype was, however, significantly associated with the CYP2A6-poor metabolic phenotype, whereas CYP2A6*9 or CYP2A6*17 alone did not show any such association. CYP2A6*11 was not detected in the population.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that CYP1A2 alleles or haplotypes were not predictive of metabolic phenotypes in the Nigerian population. Carriers of CYP2A6*9/*17 genotype are likely to be poor metabolisers of CYP2A6 substrates and may experience adverse reactions or poor efficacy while using drugs metabolised mainly by CYP2A6.
The Model of the Production Process for the Quality Management
Authors: Alot Zbigniew
Published: February 2017

This article is a result of the research on the models of the production processes for the quality management and their identification. It discusses the classical model and the indicators for evaluating the capabilities by taking as its starting point the assumption of the normal distribution of the process characteristics. The division of the process types proposed by ISO 21747:2006 standard introducing models for non-stationary processes is presented. A general process model that allows in any real case to precisely describe the statistical characteristics of the process is proposed. It gives the opportunity for more detailed description, in comparison to the model proposed by ISO 21747:2006 standard, of the process characteristics and determining its capability. This model contains the type of process, statistical distribution, and the method for determining the capability and performance (long-term capability) of the process. One of the model elements is proposed, own classification and resulting set of process types. The classification follows the recommendations of ISO 21747:2006 introducing models for the non-stationary processes. However, the set of the process types allows, beyond a more precise description of the process characteristics, its usage to monitor the process.
Is there a Nexus between Social Entrepreneurship and the Employability of Graduates?
Authors: Mandyoli Bulelwa , Iwu Chux Gervase , Nxopo Zinzi
Published: February 2017

Social entrepreneurs have, in several ways, been regarded as engines of intense socioeconomic development. They are also famous for intervening with projects for society’s problems that are often either inadvertently ignored or inadequately managed by mainstream society. The issue of graduate employability has gained increased tension around the world especially in emerging markets such as South Africa. Currently, suggestions are that considering the avowed contribution of social entrepreneurs, it may be worthwhile to start examining how they can assist with graduate employability in South Africa. This paper, therefore, takes an exploratory yet focused scrutiny of the social entrepreneurship ecosystem to find out the likelihood of social entrepreneurs participating in programs that prepare students for the workplace, thereby reducing graduate unemployability. This is a conceptual paper that has benefitted from an extensive review of literature. Conclusions are drawn therefrom to suggest that opportunities exist for social entrepreneurs to provide practical, project-based learning opportunities for college and university students so that by the time they graduate, they have attained reasonable work-readiness levels that stand them in good stead for employment. While the authors propose an intensive empirical study of the subject matter, we are equally positive that this paper may be used to advance the current platforms of engagement of the role of social entrepreneurs or grow innovative methods that provide graduates with a better chance to be successful in the working environment. In short, this paper calls for sustained discussions on how social entrepreneurs can improve graduate employability.
Nondestructive bending tests on Douglas-fir utility poles as a potential tool for pole sorting and for prediction of their behavior in service
Authors: Clauson Milo , Morrell Jeffrey J. , Romanaggi Bennett , Sinha Arijit
Published: February 2017

Wood poles are a critical part of the electrical transmission system in North America. Wood poles are normally selected on the basis of visual features such as knots, slope of grain or other defects, but there is currently no simple, nondestructive bending (NDB), pre-flexural testing for sorting poles prior to use. In the present paper, the potential for NDB based on bending below the proportional limit was examined to calculate modulus of elasticity (MOE) and thereby predict actual modulus of rupture as determined by destructive bending (MORDB). The investigation was performed on 92 full length 13.3-m long Douglas-fir pole sections. Pre-flexural testing was reasonably correlated with MOEDB, but less well correlated with MORDB. The testing also revealed that visual selection of the best face of a pole, which is used to select a pole oriented to line direction (the “best face”), was poorly correlated with pre-flexing. Increasing the number of NDB tests did not noticeably improve the prediction. The results suggest that pre-flexing might be useful for identifying poles’ performance in service, if more data are available.
The effect of inpatient treatment on the stress experienced by parents with an excessively crying infant / Die Auswirkungen eines Spitalaufenthaltes auf die Belastung von Eltern mit einem exzessiv schreienden Kind
Authors: Wittberger Liv Solveig , Albermann Kurt , Pehlke-Milde Jessica , Koppitz Andrea
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Up to 40% of families are faced with a fussy, inconsolable high need infant in the first three months postpartum. A major reason for parents to seek professional help is the trying aspect of the situation with these children. The supportive role of health professionals has the greatest potential to reduce the parent’s stress and burden. To our knowledge, there are no studies on inpatient treatment for families with such infants so far.

Aim

The aim of this study is to show how an inpatient setting may reduce the stress and burden of parents with an inconsolably crying infant.

Method

A grounded theory approach (Charmaz) was used to analyse semi-structured interviews of 13 parents from a total of 9 families.

Results

Two core categories emerged from the data: “To get out of hand” describes how parents lose the ability to control and direct family life. “To find one’s way into daily routine” describes how they once again gain confidence and develop coping strategies.

Conclusion

An inpatient treatment reduces the burden on families with inconsolably crying infants. The change in the environment is helpful. Guidance and support enhance the parents’ skill and ability to handling the infant. The stress on the parents can increase again upon hospital discharge. Therefore, improvement is needed in treatment planning and parental support at the conclusion of the hospital stay as well as upon hospital discharge.
The complexity of the connected graph access structure on seven participants
Authors: Hadian Dehkordi Massoud , Safi Ali
Published: February 2017

In this paper, we study an important problem in secret sharing that determines the exact value or bound for the complexity. First, we use the induced subgraph complexity of the graph G with access structure Γ to obtain a lower bound on the complexity of the graph G. Then, applying decomposition techniques, we obtain an upper bound on the complexity of the graph G. We determine the exact values of the complexity for each of the ten graph access structures on seven participants. Also, we improve the value bound of the complexity for the six graph access structures with seven participants.
Official Statistics and Statistics Education: Bridging the Gap
Authors: Gal Iddo , Ograjenšek Irena
Published: February 2017

This article aims to challenge official statistics providers and statistics educators to ponder on how to help non-specialist adult users of statistics develop those aspects of statistical literacy that pertain to official statistics. We first document the gap in the literature in terms of the conceptual basis and educational materials needed for such an undertaking. We then review skills and competencies that may help adults to make sense of statistical information in areas of importance to society. Based on this review, we identify six elements related to official statistics about which non-specialist adult users should possess knowledge in order to be considered literate in official statistics: (1) the system of official statistics and its work principles; (2) the nature of statistics about society; (3) indicators; (4) statistical techniques and big ideas; (5) research methods and data sources; and (6) awareness and skills for citizens’ access to statistical reports. Based on this ad hoc typology, we discuss directions that official statistics providers, in cooperation with statistics educators, could take in order to (1) advance the conceptualization of skills needed to understand official statistics, and (2) expand educational activities and services, specifically by developing a collaborative digital textbook and a modular online course, to improve public capacity for understanding of official statistics.
Possible High-Temperature Superconductivity in Hygrogenated Fluorine
Authors: Papaconstantopoulos D. A.
Published: February 2017

Recent computational studies confirmed by experiment have established the occurrence of superconducting temperatures, T
Determination of dosimetric parameters for shielded 153Gd source in prostate cancer brachytherapy
Authors: Ghorbani Mahdi , Khajetash Benyamin , Ghatei Najmeh , Mehrpouyan Mohammad , Meigooni Ali S. , Shahraini Ramin
Published: February 2017

Background

Interstitial rotating shield brachytherapy (I-RSBT) is a recently developed method for treatment of prostate cancer. In the present study TG-43 dosimetric parameters of a 153Gd source were obtained for use in I-RSBT.

Materials and methods

A 153Gd source located inside a needle including a Pt shield and an aluminum window was simulated using MCNPX Monte Carlo code. Dosimetric parameters of this source model, including air kerma strength, dose rate constant, radial dose function and 2D anisotropy function, with and without the shields were calculated according to the TG-43 report.

Results

The air kerma strength was found to be 6.71 U for the non-shielded source with 1 GBq activity. This value was found to be 0.04 U and 6.19 U for the Pt shield and Al window cases, respectively. Dose rate constant for the non-shielded source was found to be 1.20 cGy/(hU). However, for a shielded source with Pt and aluminum window, dose rate constants were found to be 0.07 cGy/(hU) and 0.96 cGy/(hU), on the shielded and window sides, respectively. The values of radial dose function and anisotropy function were tabulated for these sources. Additionally, isodose curves were drawn for sources with and without shield, in order to evaluate the effect of shield on dose distribution.

Conclusions

Existence of the Pt shield may greatly reduce the dose to organs at risk and normal tissues which are located toward the shielded side. The calculated air kerma strength, dose rate constant, radial dose function and 2D anisotropy function data for the 153Gd source for the non-shielded and the shielded sources can be used in the treatment planning system (TPS).
Exposure of children to phthalates and the impact of consumer practices in Slovakia
Authors: Šidlovská Miroslava , Petrovičová Ida , Kolena Branislav , Pilka Tomáš , Šovčíková Eva , Trnovec Tomáš
Published: February 2017

Phthalates are environmental pollutants that can enter the human body by ingestion, inhalation and dermal absorption. Food constitutes the most important source of human exposure to these chemicals. The aim of our study was the biological monitoring of exposure to eight phthalate metabolites in children (n=107), 10–12 years of age, living in eastern Slovakia. Additionally, we analysed some associations between anthropometric measures, questionnaire data (i.e. eating and drinking habits, practice of personal care products) and concentrations of phthalate metabolites. Because of the short half-life of phthalates, within 24–48 h, we used 24-h recalls to assess dietary intakes. We used high-performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry for the analysis of spot urine samples to determine concentrations of phthalate metabolites mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP), mono-n-butyl phthalate, mono-iso-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), mono (2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (5OH-MEHP), mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (5oxo-MEHP), mono-carboxy pentyl and mono (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP). We found statistically significant association between consumer practices and concentration of some phthalate metabolites, concretely consumption of milk and dairy products with MBzP and margarine with MEP (p<0.01 in both cases) and margarine with 5oxo-MEHP, hot beverages with 5OH-MEHP, baguettes and semifinished products with MEP (p<0.05 in all cases). Further, we found relationship between use of cosmetic products and phthalate concentrations, nail polish application and MEP and use of body lotion and MEHP (p<0.05 in both cases). We concluded that consumer practices (including eating and drinking habits and personal care) represent the substantial source of phthalate exposure in Slovak children.
The association of peripubertal serum concentrations of organochlorine chemicals and blood lead with growth and pubertal development in a longitudinal cohort of boys: a review of published results from the Russian Children’s Study
Authors: Sergeyev Oleg , Burns Jane S. , Williams Paige L. , Korrick Susan A. , Lee Mary M. , Revich Boris , Hauser Russ
Published: February 2017

Organochlorine chemicals and lead are environmental exposures that have endocrine disrupting properties (EDCs) which interfere with many aspects of hormone action. Childhood and adolescence are windows of susceptibility for adverse health effects of EDCs. Our ongoing study, the Russian Children’s Study (RCS), is one of the few longitudinal studies investigating the impact of EDCs on growth and puberty in boys. It is conducted in the historically contaminated city of Chapaevsk, in the Samara region. The study focuses on evaluating the associations of persistent organochlorine chemicals and lead with growth and pubertal timing. At enrollment in 2003–2005, we collected blood from 516 boys at ages 8–9 years to measure dioxins, furans, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), chlorinated pesticides and lead. At enrollment and at annual visits through the ages of 18–19 years, a physician performed physical examinations that included pubertal staging and testicular volume measurements. We review the history of Chapaevsk as a research site and summarize published RCS data on the association of peripubertal serum concentrations of organochlorines and blood lead levels with growth, pubertal onset and sexual maturity. Overall, we found that persistent organochlorines and lead negatively affected growth during puberty. Our results also suggest that total toxic equivalents (TEQs), dioxin-like compounds, organochlorine pesticides and lead may delay, while nondioxin-like-PCBs may advance, the timing of male puberty. These findings promoted remediation programs in Chapaevsk, with improvement in health indicators, resulting in Chapaevsk being designated a member of the World Health Organization (WHO) network “Healthy Cities” in 2015.
Recent advances on iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles as sorbents of organic pollutants in water and wastewater treatment
Authors: Gutierrez Angela M. , Dziubla Thomas D. , Hilt J. Zach
Published: February 2017

The constant growth in population worldwide over the past decades continues to put forward the need to provide access to safe, clean water to meet human needs. There is a need for cost-effective technologies for water and wastewater treatment that can meet the global demands and the rigorous water quality standards and at the same maximizing pollutant efficiency removal. Current remediation technologies have failed in keeping up with these factors without becoming cost-prohibitive. Most recently, nanotechnology has been sought as the best alternative to increase access to water supplies by remediating those already contaminated and offering ways to access unconventional sources. The use of iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles as nanoadsorbents has led way to a new class of magnetic separation strategies for water treatment. This review focuses on highlighting some of the most recent advances in core-shell iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles and nanocomposites containing iron oxide nanoparticles currently being developed for water and wastewater treatment of organic pollutants. We discuss the novelty of these novel materials and the insight gained from their advances that can help develop cost-effective reusable technologies for scale-up and commercial use.
The Roller-Ground Dynamic Interaction in The Compaction Process Through Vibrations for Road Construction
Authors: Sergiu Bejan
Published: February 2017

The natural soil used in filling the embankment of the road communications is characterized by the following factors: humidity, porosity, toughness. For certain factor values that describe the soil state is distinguished a certain soil behavior under the influence of the external forces applied through static or dynamic mechanical means.

In this study are presented the numeric simulation results of the soil-compactor interaction based on the complex and nonlinear rheological model proposed by the author in the result of the elaborated doctorate thesis, that follows the real soil characteristics (elastic, dissipative and plastic) on those of the compaction equipment (with a single vibrating roll). The model was harmonised and granted in accordance with the results obtained from the processing of the experimental data. For the simulation model was used the specialized software package Matlab (Simulink, SimMechanics). The obtained results revealed the real behavior of the equipment and its action on the compacted soil.
Spatial distribution and origin of coalbed gases at the working faces of the Velenje Coal Basin, Slovenia, since the year 2000
Authors: Kanduč Tjaša , Zavšek Simon , Jamnikar Sergej , Verbovšek Timotej
Published: February 2017

Geochemical and isotopic monitoring of coalbed gases at the excavation fields of mining areas in Velenje Coal Basin, Slovenia, has been ongoing since the year 2000 with the aim of obtaining better insights into the distribution and origin of coalbed gases. Results from the mining areas Pesje and Preloge (active excavation fields) are presented here from the year 2000 up to the present. Composition and origin of coalbed gases were determined using mass spectrometry at the Jožef Stefan Institute. From a larger database of geochemical samples, 119 samples were used for analysis and spatial presentation in a geographical information system (GIS) environment. We have used geochemical (CH4, CO2 and N2) and isotopic (δ
13CCO2 and δ
13CCH4) tracers for geochemical and isotopic characterisation of coalbed gases from the active excavation fields. Concentrations of CO2 and the carbon dioxide–methane indices in the southern part of the basin are higher than in the northern part of the basin due to the vicinity of the active Šoštanj Fault. The value of δ
13CCH4 at the active excavation field indicates a bacterial origin, with values greater than –50‰, and only some boreholes show elevated δ
13CCH4 quantities as a consequence of the CO2 reduction process in Velenje Coal Basin. The value of δ
13CCO2 indicates the bacterial and endogenic origin of carbon.
Electromagnetic profiling of Owena Dam, Southwestern Nigeria, using very-low-frequency radio fields
Authors: Okpoli Cyril , Tijani Raphael
Published: February 2017

Very low frequency (VLF) was used to assess variations in overburden composition, bedrock lithology and the concealed basement structures within the bedrock of Owena Dam in Igbara-Oke of the Precambrian Basement Complex of Southwestern Nigeria. Five VLF-electromagnetic (EM) traverses were occupied at 5 m intervals. The VLF normal and filtered real component anomalies identify major geological interfaces suspected to be faults/fractured zones. The points of crossover between the real and imaginary components delineate the fractured zones, which were identified as areas of possible seepage (piping and sloughing). The internal erosion (permeability) of soil mass eventually leads to the formation of an open conduit in the soil, which may lead to failure of the embankment/dam. The fractured zones are suspected to be present at all traverses. In total, 21 fractured zones were identified along the dam embankment, with the deepest occurrence at Traverse 5. These seepage zones cause heterogeneity in the subsurface composition, which could lead to dam failure. The result of the study suggests that VLF is an adequate method of monitoring seepages in embankment dams.
Heteroglossia and Fragmentariness in the Absent Therapist by Will Eaves
Authors: Drąg Wojciech
Published: February 2017

In “Discourse in the Novel” Mikhail Bakhtin argues that heteroglossia - a diversity of voices or languages - is one of the essential properties of the novel. The distinct languages spoken by individual characters (referred to as “character speech”), he maintains, inevitably affect “authorial speech”. In experimental fiction, where “authorial speech” is often eliminated altogether, one can speak of the most radical instance of novelistic polyphony. Whereas in The Sound and the Fury, The Waves and B.S. Johnson’s House Mother Normal in place of the narrator the reader is presented with several parallel voices which offer an alternative version of some of the same incidents, Will Eaves’s The Absent Therapist (2014) comprises 150 one- or two-page monologues, each of which is delivered by a different nameless speaker. The book, described by reviewers as an “experimental novella”, a “miniature novel”, and an “anti-novel”, is devoid of any frame that would account for the coexistence of so many stories. The only interpretive clues are provided in the paratext: the title and the dedication from 1 Corinthians (“There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification”). They appear to invite the reading of the entire text as an amalgam of disparate (but also, in large part, desperate) voices united by their addressee - the figure of the therapist who is not there. The aim of the article is to examine Eaves’s assemblage of voices and outline the tenuous relationship between the sections. The analysis of common themes and motifs that provide a degree of qualified unity to the book’s multiple monologues is situated in the context of fragmentary writing (as practised, among others, by Burroughs and Barthes) and its postmodernist aesthetics of the collage.