bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualizing the hotspots and emerging trends of 3D printing through scientometrics
Authors: Jin Yuran , Li Xin , Campbell R. Ian , Ji Shoufeng
Published: June 2018

Purpose

3D printing is believed to be driving the third industrial revolution. However, a scientometric visualizing of 3D printing research and an exploration its hotspots and emerging trends are lacking. This study aims to promote the theory development of 3D printing, help researchers to determine the research direction and provide a reference for enterprises and government to plan the development of 3D printing industry by a comprehensive understanding of the hotspots and trends of 3D printing.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of scientometrics, 2,769 literatures on the 3D printing theme were found in the Web of Science Core Collection’ Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) index between 1995-2016. These were analyzed to explore the research hotspots and emerging trends of 3D printing with the software CiteSpaceIII.

Findings

Hotspots had appeared first in 1993, grew rapidly from 2005 and peaked in 2013; hotspots in the “medical field” appeared earliest and have remained extremely active; hotspots have evolved from “drug”, “printer”, “rapid prototyping” and “3D printing” in the 1990s, through “laser-induced consolidation”, “scaffolds”, “sintering” and “metal matrix composites” in the 2000s, to the current hotspots of “stereolithography”, “laser additive manufacturing”, “medical images”; “3D bioprinting”, “titanium”, “Cstem cell” and “chemical reaction” were the emerging hotspots in recent years; “Commercial operation” and “fusion with emerging technology such as big data” may create future hotspots.

Research limitations/implications

It is hard to avoid the possibility of missing important research results on 3D printing. The relevant records could be missing if the query phrases for topic search do not appear in records. Besides, to improve the quality of data, this study selected articles and reviews as the research objects, which may also omit some records.

Originality/value

First, this is the first paper visualizing the hotspots and emerging trends of 3D printing using scientometric tools. Second, not only “burst reference” and “burst keywords” but also “cluster” and “landmark article” are selected as the evaluation factors to judge the hotspots and trends of a domain comprehensively. Third, overall perspective of hotspots and trends of 3D printing is put forward for the first time.
Competitors take note: how China manages its tech skills resources
Authors: Marshall Anthony , Qu Lucy , Yang Po , Zaharchuk Dave , Zhan Ying
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The research article looks at how well China is managing its tech skills resources in major industries.

Design/methodology/approach

The IBM Institute for Business Value in collaboration with Oxford Economics recently conducted a specific survey of more than 5,600 global business, government and education leaders on the topic of global workforce skills. More than 400 of the 5,600 executives surveyed were from China, representing 18 specific industries from across all major regions. The insights and opinions of these 400-plus Chinese executives inform this report about tech skills resources in China.

Findings

Seventy-one percent of corporate recruiters in China, say they cannot find applicants with sufficient practical experience, and 72 percent of the Chinese industry leaders surveyed report that gaps evidenced in the core skills of newly recruited employees is the single most significant business challenge they face.

Research limitations/implications

The interviews were performed in 2016 and the data analyzed in 2017 and 2018.

Practical implications

Seventy-one percent of Chinese executives believe that individuals should bear significant personal responsibility in developing and maintaining work skills.

Originality/value

This is a large sample of executives in major Chinese corporations and some representatives of Chinese educational institutions. Their insights about China’s talent gaps and what it is doing on many fronts to modernize its talent resources should be of interest to players in all competitive economies.
Complete brood failure in an altricial bird is almost always associated with the sudden and permanent disappearance of a parent
Authors: Santema Peter , Kempenaers Bart
Published: June 2018

A central goal in evolutionary ecology is to identify factors that explain variation in reproductive success, i.e. in the number of offspring produced. In altricial birds, a substantial part of this variation is determined by the number of nestlings that die before fledging, but surprisingly little is known about the proximate causes of offspring mortality during the nestling period.

We used a uniquely comprehensive dataset of parental nestbox visits from seven breeding seasons to investigate the association between parental behaviour and nestling mortality in a population of blue tits (Cyanistes caeruleus).

In almost all nests that suffered complete brood mortality one of the parents had suddenly disappeared during the nestling stage. In contrast, parental disappearance in nests with partial brood mortality was rare and equally common as in nests with no brood loss.

With few exceptions, parents that disappeared during the nestling stage were never observed again and never returned to breed. In contrast, parents that remained after their partner disappeared were equally likely to be observed again or return to breed as parents of nests where both parents stayed. Visit rates at nests where a parent would disappear did not differ from those at nests where both parents stayed.

Taken together, our results show that ‐ in contrast to partial brood failure ‐ complete brood failure is almost always associated with the sudden and permanent disappearance of one of the parents, probably due to predation. Partial and complete brood mortality should be treated as distinct processes that have different underlying causes.
Evaluating spatially explicit density estimates of unmarked wildlife detected by remote cameras
Authors: Evans Michael J. , Rittenhouse Tracy A. G.
Published: June 2018

Remote cameras have become a promising, cost‐effective tool for monitoring wildlife populations. Yet, for species where individuals are indistinguishable, remote cameras’ ability to provide robust and precise density estimates has been limited without the use of invasive marking.

Using the American black bear as a model species, we evaluated methods for estimating wildlife densities using remote camera detections of unmarked individuals against estimates from spatial capture–recapture (SCR) models using individual detections. We also tested the effect of incorporating varying proportions of marked individuals on model accuracy and precision.

Spatial count (SC) models using unmarked individuals produced estimates of bear density within 0.6% of those from SCR. We extended SC models to incorporate variation in density as a function of land use/land cover, and identified identical relationships between variation in bear densities and housing density as obtained using SCR. Incorporating individual detection data from simultaneous non‐invasive genetic sampling lead to more precise, but biased estimates.

Synthesis and applications. Our results identify contexts in which camera count data can be used as an alternative to spatial capture–recapture (SCR) when individual identification is prohibitive. Spatial count models provided an accurate, but less precise replication of spatial capture–recapture density estimates and may provide consistent insights into spatial variation in density. Mixed samples of camera counts and auxiliary individual detections are likely to be of limited use, but fitting spatial count models to populations with partial visual markings could improve their precision.
The opinion‐policy nexus in Europe and the role of political institutions
Authors: RASMUSSEN ANNE , REHER STEFANIE , TOSHKOV DIMITER
Published: June 2018

A strong link between citizen preferences and public policy is one of the key goals and criteria of democratic governance. Yet, our knowledge about the extent to which public policies on specific issues are in line with citizen preferences in Europe is limited. This article reports on the first study of the link between public opinion and public policy that covers a large and diverse sample of concrete public policy issues in 31 European democracies. The findings demonstrate a strong positive relationship and a substantial degree of congruence between public opinion and the state of public policy. Also examined is whether political institutions, including electoral systems and the horizontal and vertical division of powers, influence the opinion‐policy link. The evidence for such effects is very limited, which suggests that the same institutions might affect policy representation in countervailing ways through different mechanisms.
Practical value of identifying circulating tumor cells to evaluate esophageal squamous cell carcinoma staging and treatment efficacy
Authors: Chen Weipeng , Li Yin , Yuan Dongfeng , Peng Yinjie , Qin Jianjun
Published: June 2018

Background

This study was conducted to investigate the correlation between clinicopathological features and post‐therapeutic response in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients. Peripheral blood circulating tumor cells (CTCs) expressing epithelial‐mesenchymal transition markers were identified.

Methods

Peripheral blood samples were collected from 71 patients with newly diagnosed ESCC and 40 healthy volunteers. CTCs were isolated using CanPatrol CTC enrichment technology. RNA‐fluorescent in situ hybridization was used to phenotype the CTCs on the basis of epithelial and/or mesenchymal markers.

Results

The median mesenchymal CTC counts in 71 patients were: 0 in 19 stage I patients, 2 in 31 stage II, and 3 in 21 stage III/IV. The overall diagnostic performance of total CTCs to correctly identify ESCC patients was 0.991. We observed a correlation between increases in tumor size or advanced stage and an increased number of mesenchymal CTCs (P < 0.05). Thirty‐nine patients were administered two cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and their therapeutic response was evaluated: 2 complete response, 20 partial response, 13 stable disease, and 4 progressive disease. After treatment, the positive rate of mesenchymal CTCs was 70.6% in the progressive and stable disease group versus 36.4% in the complete and partial response group (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

The results showed that mesenchymal CTC count is related to ESCC clinical stage and the efficacy of neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Oncological outcomes of complete versus conventional mesocolic excision in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy
Authors: An Min Sung , Baik HyungJoo , Oh Se Hui , Park Yo‐Han , Seo Sang Hyuk , Kim Kwang Hee , Hong Kwan Hee , Bae Ki Beom
Published: June 2018

Background

Complete mesocolic excision (CME) has been proposed for colon cancer to improve oncological outcomes. The risks and benefits of laparoscopic CME have not been examined fully. We compared short‐ and long‐term outcomes of CME with a conventional mesocolic excision (non‐CME) in laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (RHC) for right‐sided colon cancer.

Methods

In total, 115 patients who underwent laparoscopic RHC with stage I–III right‐sided colon cancer at Busan Paik Hospital from August 2007 to October 2011 were enrolled in this case–control study. Three trained colorectal surgeons reviewed videos of the surgeries; patients were divided into two groups: those who underwent a CME (CME group, n = 34) and those who underwent a conventional mesocolic excision (non‐CME group, n = 81).

Results

There was no significant difference between the CME and non‐CME groups in operative time, post‐operative complications, or hospital stay. However, the CME group had more lymph nodes harvested (P < 0.001) and lower blood loss (P = 0.016) versus the non‐CME group. There was no difference in 5‐year disease‐free survival rate between the groups, but 5‐year overall survival rate was 100% in the CME group and 89.49% in the non‐CME group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic RHC with CME is safe and associated with better 5‐year overall survival rate than non‐CME for patients with stage I–III right‐sided colon cancer. Implementation of CME surgery might improve oncological outcomes for patients with right‐sided colon cancer.
Patient information needs in upper gastrointestinal cancer: what patients and their families want to know
Authors: Otutaha Bacil , Srinivasa Sanket , Koea Jonathan
Published: June 2018

Background

The treatment of upper gastrointestinal cancer (UGIC) patients is complex. Patients are often elderly, comorbid as well as nutritionally depleted and treatment involves multimodality therapy incorporating chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. The pre‐treatment information requirements of UGIC patients are not clear but crucially important in ensuring they complete treatment successfully.

Methods

A systematic review of the English language literature was performed to determine the specific information needs of patients with UGIC.

Results

Following abstract review and comprehensive analysis six articles were included. UGIC patients nominated information regarding post‐operative recovery, quality of life, expected survival, management of post‐operative symptoms and coping strategies for insurance and financial issues, relationships and family as being most important to them. Patients’ families nominated information on the effects of diagnosis on patient well‐being over the ensuing months and detailed information on available support services as being most important. One‐on‐one consultations with senior medical staff were the preferred method of information transfer followed by web‐based information services.

Conclusions

For effective treatment of UGIC patients, physicians and surgeons must address issues pertaining to quality of life, finance and relationships and may require specific training, or administrative support, in these areas.
‘Scalp coordinate system’: a new tool to accurately describe cutaneous lesions on the scalp: a pilot study
Authors: Alexander William , Miller George , Alexander Preeya , Henderson Michael A. , Webb Angela
Published: June 2018

Background

Skin cancers are extremely common and the incidence increases with age. Care for patients with multiple or complicated skin cancers often require multidisciplinary input involving a general practitioner, dermatologist, plastic surgeon and/or radiation oncologist. Timely, efficient care of these patients relies on precise and effective communication between all parties. Until now, descriptions regarding the location of lesions on the scalp have been inaccurate, which can lead to error with the incorrect lesion being excised or biopsied.

Methods

A novel technique for accurately and efficiently describing the location of lesions on the scalp, using a coordinate system, is described (the ‘scalp coordinate system’ (SCS)). This method was tested in a pilot study by clinicians typically involved in the care of patients with cutaneous malignancies. A mannequin scalp was used in the study.

Results

The SCS significantly improved the accuracy in the ability to both describe and locate lesions on the scalp. This improved accuracy comes at a minor time cost.

Discussion

The direct and indirect costs arising from poor communication between medical subspecialties (particularly relevant in surgical procedures) are immense. An effective tool used by all involved clinicians is long overdue particularly in patients with scalps with extensive actinic damage, scarring or innocuous biopsy sites. The SCS provides the opportunity to improve outcomes for both the patient and healthcare system.
Impact of major neonatal morbidities on adolescents born at 23–25 weeks of gestation
Authors: Holsti Antti , Serenius Fredrik , Farooqi Aijaz
Published: June 2018

Aim

More infants born extremely preterm (EPT) are surviving, but major neonatal morbidities are consistently high. This study examined the impact of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), brain injuries and severe retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) on adolescents who were born EPT.

Methods

We focused on EPT infants born at 23–25 weeks at the Swedish university hospitals in Uppsala and Umeå from January 1992 to December 1998. The poor outcome data covered 140 of 142 who survived to 36 weeks, and the chronic conditions data reported by parents covered 132 of 134 still alive at 10–15 years.

Results

Of the 140 survivors at 36 weeks, 29 (21%) had poor outcomes: eight of 140 (6%) died, and 21 of 132 (16%) adolescent survivors had severe neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD). BPD, severe ROP and/or brain injuries correlated independently with poor outcome. Of those adolescents who were free from BPD, brain injury and severe ROP, 6% had a severe NDD. The corresponding rates with any one, any two or all three neonatal morbidities were 21, 33 and 67%, respectively. BPD and brain injuries were associated with high rates of chronic conditions at 10–15 years of age resulting in functional limitations.

Conclusion

In adolescent EPT survivors, BPD and brain injuries were associated with high rates of chronic conditions and special healthcare needs.
Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in a Large Southern European Population. Analysis of modulatory factors. The APNA study
Authors: Santos Palacios Silvia , Llavero Valero María , Brugos‐Larumbe Antonio , Díez Juan J. , Guillén‐Grima Francisco , Galofré Juan C.
Published: June 2018

Context

To study the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in a very large unselected population.

Objective

To determine the prevalence of abnormal thyroid function and evaluate potential modulatory factors.

Design and Setting

The Estudio de Atención Primaria de Navarra, The APNA Study, is a cross‐sectional study conducted in northern Spain. It involved 303 883 people, of 20 years of age and older, who live in the Navarra region. Participants are covered by the public healthcare system and medical records are digitalized.

Main Outcome Measures

The information was gathered from e‐registered data regarding serum thyrotropin (TSH), thyroid hormones, thyroid antibody concentration and clinical context. Measurements were logged (demographic information and potential thyroid function modulatory factors).

Results

Serum TSH (mU/L) normal range was established at 0.7‐4.28. At the time of the study, 87% of the Navarra population had a TSH level within the normal range. Mean serum TSH in euthyroid individuals was higher in women (2.15) than in men (1.96) (P < .001) and higher in the obese with body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m2 (2.12) as compared to the non‐obese BMI <30 kg/m2 (2.06) (P < .001). Mean TSH for the entire population was 1.9. The native Spanish population had statistically significantly lower TSH (1.87) than non‐native Spanish (2.15) (P < .001). Additionally, we observed that serum TSH levels decreased with age and an increase in the prevalence of hypothyroidism in the elderly and among people with low‐income levels. The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in Navarra was 12.3%. The prevalence of hypothyroidism (or high TSH) in the population was 8.8% (13.3% in women, 4.2% in men), and the prevalence of hyperthyroidism (or low TSH) was 4.3% (5.6% in women, 3.0% in men).

Conclusions

Nearly 15% of the general population suffers from biochemical thyroid dysfunction. The serum TSH level appears to be influenced by sex, BMI, age, ethnic origin and socio‐economic status.
Prognostic value and characteristics of N1c colorectal cancer
Authors: Bouquot M. , Creavin B. , Goasguen N. , Chafai N. , Tiret E. , André T. , Flejou J.‐F. , Parc Y. , Lefevre J. H. , Svrcek M.
Published: June 2018

Aim

The presence of tumour deposits (TDs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with poor prognosis. The seventh edition of TNM subclassified a new nodal stage, N1c, characterized by the presence of TDs without any concurrent positive lymph node (LN). It is not clear if the N1c category is or is not equal to LN metastasis. We aimed to examine the prevalence, characteristics and prognostic significance of this new subcategory.

Method

Consecutive patients who underwent surgery for CRC in two centres (2011–2014) were analysed. N1 cM0 patients were matched against non‐N1 cM0 (N0, N1a and N1b) patients for 3‐year overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS).

Results

We identified 1122 patients with 648 (57.8%) colonic cancers. In 57 patients (5.1%), N1c status was associated with rectal cancers [rectum = 33/57 (57.9%) vs colon = 24/57 (42.1%); P = 0.029], a higher pathological tumour stage [pT3‐T4 N1c = 55/843 (6.5% vspT3‐T4 non‐N1c = 2/279 (0.7%); P < 0.0001] and vascular emboli [n = 35 (61.4%) vs n = 552 (51.8%); P = 0.0305]. Synchronous metastasis was observed in 23 cases (40%). After a mean follow‐up of 31 months, 3‐year OS for M0 patients, was 89.4%, 89.1%, 86.6% and 81.8% for N0, N1a, N1b and N1c tumours, respectively. DFS was significantly worse for N1c than for N0 (P = 0.0169), with N1c status having a significant effect on DFS in colonic cancers (P = 0.014). The presence of more than one TD was associated with a significantly worse DFS (P = 0.021).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that N1c CRC patients should be included among high‐risk patients for whom it is widely accepted that adjuvant chemotherapy should be considered.
Internal quality control indicators in cervical cytopathology of a university laboratory
Authors: Cardoso Filho L. I. , Tavares S. B. N. , Siqueira M. L. B. , dos Passos E. N. , Araújo N. L. A. S. , Martins J. M. A. , Ribeiro A. A. , dos Santos S. H. R.
Published: June 2018

Introduction

To evaluate the internal quality control indicators and quality management programme in a university cytopathology laboratory.

Methods

All results of conventional cervical smears tests (taken from the SISCAN, the Brazilian cervical cancer screening system) of women aged ≥15 years at the time of Papanicolaou smear specimen collection during January 2007‐December 2014 were included. The final results of the cytopathology were classified in accordance with the Bethesda System. The variables included in the database were the woman's name, date of birth, and age at the time of sampling (15‐30, 31‐40 and older than 40 years).

Results

In this period, 50 286 cytopathology examinations were carried out. Of these, 44 386 (91.34%) were negative for malignancy or unsatisfactory and 4209 (8.66%) presented epithelial abnormalities. The percentage of the tests consistent with atypical squamous cells (ASC) between satisfactory examinations was 4.12%; the percentage of tests compatible with ASC among abnormal examinations was 47.87%; the ASC/squamous intraepithelial lesion) ratio was 0.97 and the percentage of high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion among satisfactory tests was 2.21%, and the 5‐year retrospective review identified 4.97% of false‐negative results.

Conclusion

All rates obtained were consistent over the years and within the recommended values by Federal Regulation of Brazil. This demonstrates the efficacy of our established internal quality monitoring and continuing education, reflecting the commitment of the team involved in the release of smear reports.
Between international donors and local faith communities: Intermediaries in humanitarian assistance to Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon
Authors: Kraft Kathryn , Smith Jonathan D.
Published: June 2018

This paper explores the crucial part that faith‐based organisations (FBOs) play in acting as intermediaries between international donors and local faith communities (LFCs) implementing humanitarian relief projects for Syrian refugees. Humanitarian responses to the mounting Syrian refugee crisis have coincided with greater collaboration between international donors and LFCs. This cooperation often is facilitated by a complex web of non‐state intermediaries at the international, national, and local level. This study probes the breadth of roles of these intermediaries, drawing on primary data from case studies of two Christian intermediaries supporting Christian LFCs as they deliver aid primarily to Muslim Syrian refugees in Jordan and Lebanon. The results of the study are connected to the wider literature on LFCs in humanitarian response, revealing how intermediaries address issues of accountability, capacity‐building, impartiality, neutrality, and professionalism. The paper concludes by offering suggestions for further research on intermediaries as key actors in the localisation of humanitarian assistance.
QUANTITATIVE EASING AND THE UK STOCK MARKET: DOES THE BANK OF ENGLAND INFORMATION DISSEMINATION STRATEGY MATTER?
Authors: Chortareas Georgios , Karanasos Menelaos , Noikokyris Emmanouil
Published: June 2018

We use intraday aggregate stock market data and an event‐study framework to assess the UK's equity market reaction to the unexpected element of the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) asset purchase announcements for the 2009–2017 period. We assess the reactions of equity returns and their volatility over various time frames, both preceding and following the MPC announcements. Our results show that the UK unconventional monetary policy shocks have a significant impact on domestic equity returns and volatilities. The strength of this impact depends on the Bank's information dissemination through inflation reports and the publication of the MPC's voting records. (JEL G14, E44, E52)
Generic antiepileptic drugs—Safe or harmful in patients with epilepsy?
Authors: Holtkamp Martin , Theodore William H.
Published: June 2018

Generic antiepileptic drugs (AED) are significantly cheaper than brand name drugs, and may reduce overall health care expenditures. Regulatory bodies in Europe and North America require bioequivalence between generic and innovator drugs with regard to area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) and peak plasma concentration (Cmax); strict cutoff values have been defined. The main issue is if bioequivalence ensures therapeutic equivalence. Are switches from brand to generic, or between generic AEDs entirely safe or potentially harmful in patients with epilepsy? We summarized and evaluated the available evidence from bioequivalence, health care utilization, and clinical studies on safety of generic AEDs. In most cases, variations in AUC and Cmax were negligible when comparing innovator and generic AEDs. Due to interindividual pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variability, measured differences between innovator and generic drugs may be the same as differences between different lots of the same brand. Studies from several countries based on insurance data have reported an increase in health care usage after switch from brand to generic AEDs; switchback rates are significantly higher for AEDs compared to other compounds. Patients may be confused, and nonadherence may increase, when AEDs are switched between manufacturers, perhaps due to changes in medication shape and color. But clinical studies do not report changes in seizure frequency and tolerability attributable to generics. Sufficient evidence indicates that most generics are bioequivalent to innovator AEDs; they do not pose a relevant risk for patients with epilepsy. However, some patients are reluctant towards variations in color and shape of their AEDs which may result in nonadherence. We recommend administering generics when a new AED is initiated. Switches from brand to generic AEDs for cost reduction and between generics, which is rarely required, generally seem to be safe, but should be accompanied by thorough counseling of patients on low risks.
Laser ablation for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: Surgical and cognitive outcomes with and without mesial temporal sclerosis
Authors: Donos Cristian , Breier Joshua , Friedman Elliott , Rollo Patrick , Johnson Jessica , Moss Lauren , Thompson Stephen , Thomas Melissa , Hope Omotola , Slater Jeremy , Tandon Nitin
Published: June 2018

Objectives

Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is a minimally invasive surgical technique for focal epilepsy. A major appeal of LITT is that it may result in fewer cognitive deficits, especially when targeting dominant hemisphere mesial temporal lobe (MTL) epilepsy. To evaluate this, as well as to determine seizure outcomes following LITT, we evaluated the relationships between ablation volumes and surgical or cognitive outcomes in 43 consecutive patients undergoing LITT for MTL epilepsy.

Methods

All patients underwent unilateral LITT targeting mesial temporal structures. FreeSurfer software was used to derive cortical and subcortical segmentation of the brain (especially subregions of the MTL) using preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Ablation volumes were outlined using a postablation T1‐contrasted MRI. The percentages of the amygdala, hippocampus, and entorhinal cortex ablated were quantified objectively. The volumetric measures were regressed against changes in neuropsychological performance before and after surgery,

Results

A median of 73.7% of amygdala, 70.9% of hippocampus, and 28.3% of entorhinal cortex was ablated. Engel class I surgical outcome was obtained in 79.5% and 67.4% of the 43 patients at 6 and 20.3 months of follow‐up, respectively. No significant differences in surgical outcomes were found across patient subgroups (hemispheric dominance, hippocampal sclerosis, or need for intracranial evaluation). Furthermore, no significant differences in volumes ablated were found between patients with Engel class IA vs Engel class II‐IV outcomes. In patients undergoing LITT in the dominant hemisphere, a decline in verbal and narrative memory, but not in naming function was noted.

Significance

Seizure‐free outcomes following LITT may be comparable in carefully selected patients with and without MTS, and these outcomes are comparable with outcomes following microsurgical resection. Failures may result from non‐mesial components of the epileptogenic network that are not affected by LITT. Cognitive declines following MTL‐LITT are modest, and principally affect memory processes.
Glucose transporters in cancer – from tumor cells to the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Ancey Pierre‐Benoit , Contat Caroline , Meylan Etienne
Published: June 2018

Solute carriers of the glucose transporter (GLUT) family mediate the first step for cellular glucose usage. The upregulation of GLUTs has been reported in numerous cancer types as a result of perturbation of gene expression or protein relocalization or stabilization. Because they enable to sustain the energy demand required by tumor cells for various biochemical programs, they are promising targets for the development of anticancer strategies. Recently, important biological insights have come from the fine crystal structure determination of several GLUTs; these advances will likely catalyze the development of new selective inhibitory compounds. Furthermore, deregulated glucose metabolism of nontumor cells in the tumor mass is beginning to be appreciated and could have major implications for our understanding of how glucose uptake by specific cell types influences the behavior of neighboring cells in the same microenvironment. In this review, we discuss some of the deregulation mechanisms of glucose transporters, their genetic and pharmacological targeting in cancer, and new functions they may have in nontumor cells of the tumor environment or beyond glucose uptake for glycolysis.
Regulation of ciliary membrane protein trafficking and signalling by kinesin motor proteins
Authors: Morthorst Stine Kjær , Christensen Søren Tvorup , Pedersen Lotte Bang
Published: June 2018

Primary cilia are antenna‐like sensory organelles that regulate a substantial number of cellular signalling pathways in vertebrates, both during embryonic development as well as in adulthood, and mutations in genes coding for ciliary proteins are causative of an expanding group of pleiotropic diseases known as ciliopathies. Cilia consist of a microtubule‐based axoneme core, which is subtended by a basal body and covered by a bilayer lipid membrane of unique protein and lipid composition. Cilia are dynamic organelles, and the ability of cells to regulate ciliary protein and lipid content in response to specific cellular and environmental cues is crucial for balancing ciliary signalling output. Here we discuss mechanisms involved in regulation of ciliary membrane protein trafficking and signalling, with main focus on kinesin‐2 and kinesin‐3 family members.
Seasonal differences in energy expenditure, flight characteristics and spatial utilization of Dalmatian Pelicans Pelecanus crispus in Greece
Authors: Efrat Ron , Harel Roi , Alexandrou Olga , Catsadorakis Giorgos , Nathan Ran
Published: June 2018

Animals typically adjust their behaviour to their changing environment throughout the annual cycle, modulating key processes such as the timing of breeding and the onset of migration. Such behavioural changes are commonly manifested in the movements and the energetic balance of individuals in relation to their species‐specific physiological characteristics, habitat attributes and the environmental properties of their distribution ranges. We used GPS and acceleration data collected using transmitters on free‐ranging birds to quantify annual movement patterns and estimate energy expenditure of the Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus, a large, soaring avian species which performs short‐distance migration and spends its entire annual cycle in mid‐latitudes. To assess the representativeness of our results, the transmitter effect was also tested. We found that daily trends in the overall dynamic body acceleration (ODBA; a proxy for energy expenditure) differed among seasons, with the highest values occurring during spring and the lowest during winter. Long inter‐lake flights were very rare in winter, and the number of flights and ODBA during spring was higher than during summer, suggesting greater motivation to move in spring. Although transmitters may have affected the birds, as none of the tagged birds bred, we found seasonal differences in behaviour and activity level. The observed patterns in differences in activity levels, long‐distance flights and flight characteristics between seasons suggest an annual rhythm of energy expenditure. These findings allow a better understanding of bird phenology, specifically regarding adaptations to wintering in a cold climate by reducing movement‐driven energy expenditure. Finally, the identification of periods with high and low energy expenditure may guide future conservation efforts by adjusting conservation plans in accordance with changing needs during the annual cycle.
Metastatic tubercular gummas and splenic tuberculoma secondary to tubercular lymphadenitis in an immunocompetent female
Authors: Sanke Sarita , Chander Ram , Dalal Keemi , Agarwal Shilpi
Published: June 2018

Tubercular gummas and splenic tuberculomas are rare forms of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, usually occurring in immunocompromised individuals. We hereby report a rare combination of multiple tubercular gummas and splenic tuberculoma secondary to TB lymphadenitis in an immunocompetent individual. The patient responded to antitubercular therapy. Thus, in a developing country like ours, tuberculosis can present in a wide clinical spectrum even in an immunocompetent individual.
An Institutional Contingency Perspective of Interlocking Directorates
Authors: Caiazza Rosa , Cannella Jr Albert A. , Phan Phillip H. , Simoni Michele
Published: June 2018

Interlocking directorates, in which companies are linked by the directors that serve on their boards, exist globally. It is an expression of hegemonic power exercised by the elites of a society, and has been studied with great interest by organizational sociologists, management scholars and financial economists. The interest emanates from the effect that interlocks have on wealth creation and distribution, and from the perspective that interlocks can tell us how elites in a society are networked. Although diverse theoretical perspectives have informed the research on interlocking directorates, this review shows that the Anglo‐American perspective dominates. This dominance is notable not only in the volume of Anglo‐American studies, but also in theories employed by international studies. For example, most international studies use agency theory to investigate the welfare implications of interlocks, but many countries do not use the Anglo‐American legal regime, which is the basis for agency theory. This paper expands the theoretical basis of the review to include class hegemony and resource dependence, to articulate better the causes and consequences of interlocks in the international context. The paper also extends theory by showing that institutions have an important influence on interlocks, so that the latter can be welfare‐depleting in one institutional setting, while welfare‐enhancing in another. The review concludes by discussing the implication for future research.
The functions of caspase in whitefly Bemisia tabaci apoptosis in response to ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Wang X.‐R. , Wang C. , Wang X.‐W. , Qian L.‐X. , Chi Y. , Liu S.‐S. , Liu Y.‐Q. , Wang X.‐W.
Published: June 2018

Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) are phloem feeders, and some invasive species are composed of cryptic species complexes that cause extensive crop damage, particularly via the direct transmission of plant viruses. Apoptosis is a type of programmed cell death essential for organismal development and tissue homeostasis. The caspases belong to a family of cysteine proteases that play a central role in the initiation of apoptosis in many organisms. Here, we employed a comprehensive genomics approach to identity caspases in B. tabaci Middle East Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1), an invasive whitefly that carries a cryptic species complex that is devastating to crops. Four caspase genes were identified, and their motif compositions were predicted. Structures were relatively conserved in both putative effector and initiator caspases. Expression patterns of caspase genes differed across insect developmental stages. Three caspase genes were induced immediately after ultraviolet (UV) treatment. Expression levels of Bt‐caspase‐1 and Bt‐caspase‐3b increased in the midgut and salivary glands during apoptosis induced by UV treatments, whereas silencing of both genes reduced UV‐triggered apoptosis. Our study demonstrates that Bt‐caspase‐1 and Bt‐caspase‐3b, respectively, act as putative initiator and effector apoptotic caspases in the MEAM1 whitefly.
Utility of minimal preparation computed tomography colonography in detecting colorectal cancer in elderly and frail patients
Authors: Meiklejohn David J. , Ridley Lloyd J. , Ngu Meng C. , Cowlishaw James L. , Duller Alex , Ridley William
Published: June 2018

Background

Colorectal cancers result in substantial morbidity and mortality to the Australian society each year. The usual investigation for bowel malignancy is optical colonoscopy (OC), with computed tomography colonography (CTC) used as an alternative investigation. The catharsis and colon insufflation associated with these investigations pose a higher risk in the elderly and frail. Risks include perforation, serum electrolyte disturbance and anaesthesia/sedation risks. Minimal preparation computed tomography colonography (MPCTC) eliminates these risks.

Aims

To audit the accuracy of a MPCTC programme for the investigation of colonic masses in symptomatic elderly and frail patients.

Methods

This paper audits a 6‐year period of MPCTC in an Australian tertiary referral hospital. A total of 145 patients underwent MPCTC during the study period.

Results

There were seven true positives, two false positives and two false negatives. Analysis of this population indicates a sensitivity of 0.78 (95% CI 0.51–1.05), specificity of 0.99 (95% CI 0.97–1.01), positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.78 (95% CI 0.51–1.05) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 0.99 (95% CI 0.97–1.01). These findings are concordant with other published studies.

Conclusions

This audit confirms that minimal preparation CT colonography is a reasonable alternative to OC and CTC in detecting colorectal cancer in symptomatic elderly and frail patients, without the procedural risks inherent in more invasive investigations. For most patients, MPCTC ruled out significant colorectal carcinoma with a high NPV.
Person‐centred pain management for the patient with acute abdominal pain: An ethnography informed by the Fundamentals of Care framework
Authors: Avallin Therese , Muntlin Athlin Åsa , Elgaard Sørensen Erik , Kitson Alison , Björck Martin , Jangland Eva
Published: June 2018

Aims

To explore and describe the impact of the organizational culture on and the patient–practitioner patterns of actions that contributes to or detract from successful pain management for the patient with acute abdominal pain (AAP) across the acute care pathway.

Background

Although pain management is a recognized human right, unmanaged pain continues to cause suffering and prolong hospital care. Unanswered questions about how to successfully manage pain relate to both organizational culture and individual practitioners’ performance.

Design

Focused ethnography, applying the Developmental Research Sequence and the Fundamentals of Care framework.

Methods

Participant observation and informal interviews (92 hr) were performed at one emergency department (ED) and two surgical wards at a University Hospital during April–November 2015. Data include 261 interactions between patients, aged ≥18 years seeking care for AAP at the ED and admitted to a surgical ward (N = 31; aged 20–90 years; 14 men, 17 women; 9 with communicative disabilities) and healthcare practitioners (N = 198).

Results

The observations revealed an organizational culture with considerable impact on how well pain was managed. Well‐managed pain presupposed the patient and practitioners to connect in a holistic pain management including a trustful relationship, communication to share knowledge and individualized analgesics.

Conclusions

Person‐centred pain management requires an organization where patients and practitioners share their knowledge of pain and pain management as true partners. Leaders and practitioners should make small behavioural changes to enable the crucial positive experience of pain management.
Convergent evolution of the tradeoff between egg size and tail fork depth in swallows and swifts
Authors: Hasegawa Masaru , Arai Emi
Published: June 2018

Convergent evolution provides strong evidence of the power of natural selection, particularly for distantly related taxa. Swallows and swifts are such distantly related taxa; both are specialised to feed on flying insects and have similar morphological features, such as long wings. These birds also exhibit deeply forked tails in some species, but their function remains unclear; some have argued that fork tails have evolved due to sexual selection to attract mates, while others claim that viability selection for efficient foraging favours fork tails. A recent phylogenetic analysis found the negative relationship between female tail fork depth and egg size in swallows perhaps due to foraging costs of fork tails during egg formation, but its generality remains unclear. Here, using swifts, which differ from swallows by foraging on weak‐flying insects, we found that egg size significantly decreased with increasing female fork depth. Because female fork depth was not significantly related to clutch size, clutch size would not compensate for the relationship between egg size and fork depth. The current finding using swifts, together with the previous finding in swallows, provide strong support for an evolutionary tradeoff between the female plumage ornament and reproductive investment, as predicted by sexual selection theory.
Factors that have an impact on knowledge, attitude and practice related to kangaroo care: National survey study among neonatal nurses
Authors: Deng Qingqi , Zhang Yao , Li Qiufang , Wang Hua , Xu Xinfen
Published: June 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore factors that impact nurses’ knowledge, perceptions and practice related to kangaroo care in neonatal intensive care units in China.

Background

It is recognised extensively that kangaroo care is an effective intervention for improving the outcomes of preterm infants and has been recommended as a routine practice for neonatal care. However, this practice is uncommon in China and little is known about neonatal nurses’ knowledge and attitude.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

An online questionnaire was completed by 830 neonatal nurses. Data were analysed using measures of central tendency, dispersion, ANOVA,ttests and the general linear model.

Results

A total of 48.2% of the participants reported practicing kangaroo care. Range of score for each scale was knowledge 0–16 (M = 9.62), perceptions 28–103 (M = 79.99), barriers 17–85 (M = 65.40) and practice 11–55 (M = 34.44). Experience in using kangaroo care was a primary factor for the scores of four scales. Particularly, experienced nurses had higher level of knowledge and perceived less barriers. Respondents’ role in neonatal intensive care units considerably influenced perceptions and practice level. Nurses’ highest education and neonatal intensive care unit level also influenced the knowledge and practice score, separately. A major barrier to practice was the reluctance of physicians, nurses and parents.

Conclusion

Neonatal nurses’ knowledge, attitude and practice levels related to kangaroo care were relatively low. Results suggested that leadership and knowledgeable practitioners could initiate education and clinical training to improve nurses’ knowledge and awareness on the efficacy of kangaroo care. Moreover, initiatives and behaviours would be enhanced following increased knowledge and perceived value. Such barriers as the reluctance of medical staff may likewise be lowered or removed after experiencing kangaroo care.

Relevance to clinical practice

Neonatal nurses’ knowledge and belief need to be improved for optimal practice of kangaroo care. Organisational support and clear guidelines are also in need for successful kangaroo care.