bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum-Biomarker zur Früherkennung von Tumorrezidiven bei Lungenkrebspatienten
Authors: Hekmat Khosro
Published: February 2018

Background: A significant proportion of patients who undergo lung resection for less than 4 cm non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) will die of disease recurrence within 5 years. The ability to identify patients at greatest risk for recurrence may help individualize treatment and surveillance regimens and improve outcomes. We hypothesized that a serum-based biomarker panel could help risk stratify patients with node-negative NSCLC less than 4 cm for recurrence after lung resection. Methods: An institutional biorepository of more than 1,800 cases was used to identify patients with resected, node-negative NSCLC less than 4 cm in size. Clinical and radiographic data were collected. Preoperative serum specimens were evaluated in a blinded manner for 47 biomarkers that sampled biological processes associated with metastatic progression, including angiogenesis, energy metabolism, apoptosis, and inflammation. Receiver-operating characteristics curves and log rank tests were used to evaluate individual biomarkers with respect to recurrence, followed by random forest analysis to generate and cross validate a multiple-analyte panel to risk stratify patients for recurrence. Results: The cohort included 123 patients with a median follow-up of 58.2 months; 23 patients had recurrences. A seven-analyte panel consisting of human epididymis protein 4, insulinlike growth factor-binding protein 1, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, follistatin, prolactin, angiopoietin-2, and hepatocyte growth factor optimally identified patients with disease recurrence with a cross-validated specificity of 91%, sensitivity of 22%, negative predictive value of 83%, positive predictive value of 36%, and accuracy of 78%, providing an area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve of 0.70. Conclusions: Serum-based biomarkers may be useful for risk stratifying patients with node-negative NSCLC less than 4 cm for recurrence after lung resection.
DBStar: An Open-Source Tool Kit for Imaging Analysis with Patient-Customized Deep Brain Stimulation Platforms
Authors: Lauro Peter M. , Lee Shane , Ahn Minkyu , Barborica Andrei , Asaad Wael F.
Published: February 2018

Background/Objectives: To create an open-source method for reconstructing microelectrode recording (MER) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrode coordinates along multiple parallel trajectories with patient-specific DBS implantation platforms to facilitate DBS research. Methods: We combined the surgical geometry (extracted from WayPoint Planner), pre-/intra-/postoperative computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MR) images, and integrated them into the Analysis of Functional NeuroImages (AFNI) neuroimaging analysis environment using functions written in Python. Electrode coordinates were calculated from image-based electrode surfaces and recording trajectory depth values. Coordinates were translated into appropriate trajectories, and were tested for proximity to patient-specific or atlas-based anatomical structures. Final DBS electrode coordinates for 3 patient populations (ventral intermediate nucleus [VIM], subthalamic nucleus [STN], and globus pallidus pars interna [GPi]) were calculated. For STN cases, MER site coordinates were then analyzed to see whether they were inside or outside the STN. Results: Final DBS electrode coordinates were described for VIM, STN, and GPi patient populations. 115/169 (68%) STN MER sites were within 1 mm of the STN in AFNI’s Talairach and Tournoux (TT) atlas. Conclusions: DBStar is a robust tool kit for understanding the anatomical location and context of electrode locations, and can easily be used for imaging, behavioral, or electrophysiological analyses.
Prognosis of Ocular Myasthenia Gravis in an Argentinian Population
Authors: Aguirre Florencia , Villa Andres M.
Published: February 2018

Background: We investigated the prognosis of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) initially presenting with only ocular symptoms in an Argentinian population. Summary: We performed a retrospective analysis of 61 patients with MG with pure ocular involvement at onset. Generalized MG (gMG) developed in 73.7% of patients, while the rest only exhibited ocular symptoms throughout the course of the disease (ocular MG [oMG]). The AChR antibody (AChR-ab) was found in 81.4% of the gMG and 50% of the oMG cases. AChR-ab titers were also significantly higher in the gMG than in the oMG group. Patients with oMG more frequently required treatment only with acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and showed more remissions. Key Messages: Our study showed high generalization in patients with MG debuting with ocular symptoms. Patients with AChR seropositivity and higher AChR-ab titers had an increased risk for gMG, while patients with oMG showed lower corticosteroid requirements and a higher remission rate.
Prognostic Role of Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Esophagus Cancer: a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Song Xing , Shao Yingjie , Xu Bin , Hu Wenwei , Zhou Qi , Chen Lujun , Zhang Dachuan , Wu Changping , Jiang Jingting
Published: February 2018

Background/Aims: Several studies have verified the correlation between tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and survival of patients with esophagus cancer (EC). However, the prognostic role of TILs is still controversial. Therefore, we performed this meta-analysis. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library (last update by August 30, 2017) to identify studies assessing the effect of TILs on survival of patients with EC. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer specific survival (CSS) were estimated using fixed-effects models or random-effects models, which depends on the heterogeneity. Results: Data from 22 observational studies including 2909 patients were summarized. Pooled analysis indicated that generalized TILs were favorable prognostic markers for OS in patients with EC (pooled HR = 0.48; 95% CI = 0.38-0.61; P < 0.001). For TIL subsets, CD8+ TILs were associated with improved OS (pooled HR = 0.68; 95% CI = 0.58–0.84; P < 0.001) and DFS (pooled HR = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.85-0.95; P < 0.001); FoxP3+ TILs were associated with patients’ DFS (pooled HR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.81-0.96; P = 0.003). High CD57+ TILs indicated a better OS in patients with EC (pooled HR = 0.50; 95% CI = 0.35-0.72; P < 0.001). In addition, the pooled results showed that other TIL subsets including CD3+, CD4+ and CD45RO+ TILs were not associated with patients’ survival (P > 0.05). Conclusions: For patients with EC, some TIL subsets could serve as prognostic biomarkers. The application of TILs in the immunotherapy of EC needs to be verified through a large amount of clinical research.
Knockdown MiR-302b Alleviates LPS-Induced Injury by Targeting Smad3 in C28/I2 Chondrocytic Cells
Authors: Wang Yueshu , Yu Tao , Jin Hui , Zhao Changfu , Wang Yang
Published: February 2018

Background/Aims: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common chronic degenerative diseases. Many studies have demonstrated the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in OA; however, the role of miR-302b in OA remains elusive. The aim of this study was to identify the role of miR-302b in LPS-induced injury in chondrocytes. Methods: Human OA chondrocytes (C28/12 cell line) were transfected with miR-302b inhibitor and miR-302b mimic to investigate the effects of miR-302b expression on chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammation, and to identify the miR-302b target proteins. Results: LPS treatment of chondrocytes significantly reduced cell viability and increased apoptotic rate. LPS treatment also increased the expression of inflammatory cytokines compared to control. miR-302b was up-regulated in LPS-induced chondrocytes. miR-302b was either suppressed or overexpressed in LPS-induced chondrocytes by transient transfection. miR-302b mimic transfection accelerated the effects of LPS on cell viability, apoptosis and inflammation. Of contrast, miR-302b inhibition represented a reverse effect. Dual luciferase activity demonstrated that Smad3 is a direct target for miR-302b and its expression was negatively regulated by miR-302b. In addition, miR-302b inhibition suppressed inflammation in LPS treated chondrocytes by up-regulating Smad3 expression. Moreover, LPS induced down-regulation of Notch and mTOR signaling pathway-related protein expressions, and miR-302b inhibition increased the expressions of Notch and mTOR signaling pathway-related proteins. We further found that miR-302b negatively regulated Notch2 levels through direct targeting its 3’UTR. Conclusions: These results suggest that miR-302b suppression may function as a protector in suppressing the inflammation during the development and progression of OA by up-regulating the target Smad3 expression.
ІННОВАЦІЙНИЙ МЕНЕДЖМЕНТ В ОСВІТНІХ ЗАКЛАДАХ З ІНКЛЮЗИВНОЮ СКЛАДОВОЮ У ВНЗ І–ІІ РІВНІВ АКРЕДИТАЦІЇ
Authors: Lytvynova O. N. , Stadnitskaya I. R.
Published: February 2018

У статті показано інноваційні форми  управління у ВНЗ І–ІІ рівнів акредитації із певною інклюзивною часткою.
ПІДГОТОВКА МАЙБУТНІХ МЕДИЧНИХ СЕСТЕР ДО ЗДОРОВ’ЯЗБЕРЕЖУВАЛЬНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ З ВАЖКОВИХОВУВАНИМИ ПІДЛІТКАМИ
Authors: Melnychuk I. M. , Morvaniuk V. Yu.
Published: February 2018

У статті висвітлено питання запровадження інноваційних методів у роботу медичних сестер для організації оптимальної взаємодії з важковиховуваними підлітками з метою продуктивного впливу на них у напрямі підготовки до здоров’язбережувальної діяльності.
ПРОБЛЕМИ ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ САМОСТІЙНОЇ РОБОТИ СТУДЕНТІВ У МЕДИЧНОМУ КОЛЕДЖІ
Authors: Davydchuk M. A.
Published: February 2018

У роботі проаналізовано зміст і сутність поняття «самостійна робота студентів». Визначено її основні функції та проблеми впровадження у контексті навчально-виховного процесу медичного коледжу. Виокремлено перспективи подальшого наукового пошуку.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ РОБОТИ МЕДИЧНОЇ СЕСТРИ З ВІЛ-ІНФІКОВАНИМИ ПАЦІЄНТАМИ
Authors: Kordys T. O. , Mialiuk O. P. , Marushchak M. I. , Bushynska I. V.
Published: February 2018

У статті проаналізовано роль медичної сестри у забезпеченні догляду за ВІЛ-інфікованими пацієнтами. Показано, що катастрофічне поширення вірусу імунодефіциту людини зумовлює необхідність чіткої організації роботи медичного персоналу з ВІЛ-інфікованими пацієнтами, що обґрунтовує потребу підвищення рівня знань медичної сестри у даній галузі медичної науки. Медичним сестрам постійно потрібно пам’ятати, що контингент з яким вони працюють це люди з тяжким хронічним захворюванням не тільки медичного, а і психологічного характеру. Необхідно бути дуже уважними, ретельно виконувати всі алгоритми, використовувати всі деонтологічні надбання медичної науки і постійно підвищувати свій рівень знань.
Redescription of Parilia alcocki Wood-Mason, in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891 (Decapoda, Brachyura, Leucosiidae) from southeast India
Authors: PREMA M. , RAVICHANDRAN S. , NG PETER K. L.
Published: February 2018

Parilia alcocki Wood-Mason, in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891, the type species of Parilia Wood-Mason, in Wood-Mason & Alcock, 1891, described from the Bay of Bengal, is one of the largest known leucosioid crabs, reaching carapace widths of over 50 mm. It is, however, not well known and its male gonopods have never been figured. A series of specimens of this species obtained from a fishing port in Tamil Nadu, India, allows for a comprehensive re-description and illustrations of the species. Its distinguishing characters from congeners are discussed.
New species of the leafhopper genera Sophonia and Stenotortor (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Evacanthinae) from the Oriental region
Authors: VIRAKTAMATH C.A. , WILSON MICHAEL R.
Published: February 2018

Three new species, Sophonia picta sp. nov., Sophonia similis sp. nov. (both from Indonesia: Kalimantan Tengah) and Stenotortor acuta sp. nov. (from India: Karnataka), are described and illustrated. S. picta closely resembles S. malayana (Baker) externally but differs in having a round carmine red spot on the crown and a black round spot on the apical third of the forewing. Though the aedeagus of S. malayana and S. picta are similar, S. picta has a ventral pair of aedeagal processes with subequal branches compared to a lateral pair with unequal branches in S. malayana. S. similis closely resembles S. sandakanensis (Baker) externally but differs in having a round black spot on the apical third of the forewing and a short apical process on the aedeagal shaft. Sophonia sandakanenesis Baker is redescribed. A revised key to the species of Sophonia from Singapore, Borneo and the Philippines is also provided. Stenotortor acuta sp. nov. resembles both S. inocarpi Baker and S. subhimalya Viraktamath & Wesley but differs in a having more acutely pointed head. Illustrations of the three earlier known species of Stenotortor and also the new species are provided along with a key for their identification.
Partial cage division significantly reduces aggressive behavior in male laboratory mice
Authors: Tallent Bret R , Law L Matthew , Rowe Rachel K , Lifshitz Jonathan
Published: February 2018

Aggression in mice often results in injury leading to unplanned euthanasia or the initiation of protocols to isolate animals, thereby increasing research costs and straining resources. Here, we tested if adding a partial cage divider into existing mouse cages affected aggressive-like behavior in group-housed male mice (18 mice; 3 per cage). Mice were randomly assigned to one of two groups upon arrival to the vivarium: (1) standard cage; (2) cage with a partial cage divider. Behavioral observation over 12 hours were conducted at day one, two, and seven after receipt at the facility in order to assess aggression during the course of establishing dominance hierarchies. Observers blinded to study design and hypothesis scored each video for the number and type of aggressive behaviors, which were summed for each hour and analyzed. Results indicated a statistically significant decrease in aggressive behaviors of mice in cages with dividers compared to mice in standard cages. We conclude that cage dividers, which resemble burrows and provide access to common food/water, may promote rigorous research by reducing the number of animals used in a study and refining housing, thus, improving animal welfare.
The evaluation of the in vitro antimicrobial properties of fibers functionalized by chitosan nanoparticles
Authors: Ristić Tijana , Persin Zdenka , Kralj Kuncic Marjetka , Kosalec Ivan , Zemljic Lidija Fras
Published: February 2018

In this work, chitosan (CS) and its water-soluble derivatives, N,N,N-trimethyl chitosans (TMC), were used in the form of solution and nanoparticles dispersions (CSNP) as an adsorbate for cellulose fibers in order to obtain bioactive functionality of fibers aimed toward use in tampons. To examine the usability of bioactive tampons it is extremely important to provide detailed information about tampons’ antimicrobial capacity regarding pathogen microorganisms (MOs), as well as for those responsible for healthy flora such as Lactobacillus sp. Thus, evaluation of the in vitro antimicrobial properties of functionalized fibers was performed in detail using the standard shake-flask test method (ASTM E2149) and “time-kill” method (non-standard method) against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. Both methods were compared. Susceptibility of Lactobacillus sp. to coated fibers was tested as well. Additionally, cytotoxic properties of fibers were evaluated as a further indicator of safety aspect of tampons functionalized by CS and TMC. The results show that specific functionalization of tampons using CS nanoparticles could improve tampon antimicrobial activity and offer a safety upgrade for the regular feminine cotton tampon, providing an attractive feature.
Surgery for tricuspid regurgitation in a case of anomalous systemic venous return
Authors: Eto Koki , Kotani Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Edaki Daichi , Kasahara Shingo , Masuda Zenichi
Published: February 2018

A 75-year-old woman presented with severe tricuspid regurgitation requiring surgical repair. She had extremely rare anomalies in systemic venous return in spite of situs solitus: persistent left superior vena cava with absent right superior vena cava, infrahepatic inferior vena cava interruption, and hemiazygos continuation to a persistent left superior vena cava. These unusual systemic venous anomalies had significantly enlarged the coronary sinus, and the stretched coronary sinus orifice changed the geometry of the tricuspid annulus and triggered tricuspid regurgitation. There were technical difficulties in establishing cardiopulmonary bypass and achieving successful tricuspid valve repair.
Earth beyond repair: Race and apocalypse in collective imagination
Authors: Gergan Mabel , Smith Sara , Vasudevan Pavithra
Published: February 2018

Scholars have argued that geologic proposals for the Anthropocene are entangled with collective imaginaries and geopolitical anxieties. In this article, we analyze three prominent tropes of American apocalyptic films (the “Great Deluge,” the “Nuclear Catacalysm,” and “the Population Bomb”) and map them onto existing geological proposals for the Anthropocene. In staging this encounter, we illustrate how impending ecological disasters in American popular imagination temporally displace the apocalypse into the present or the future. These imaginings of apocalypse evade specific culpability when they imagine a universal human frailty, enacting a darkly ironic reversal of historical and ongoing apocalyptic realities. Drawing on insights from ecocriticism, political geography, postcolonial, decolonial and critical race studies, we argue that the global crisis heralded by the Anthropocene reveals deep-seated fears of racialized others taking over the planet and the decline of white civilization, and we suggest alternative openings for other futures.
Green victimology and non-human victims
Authors: White Rob
Published: February 2018

This article explores the tensions and interplay between human and non-human environmental victims from the point of view of eco-justice. The article begins by sketching out the broad contours of green victimology as a newly emerging area of intellectual engagement. Human victims of environmental harm are not widely recognised as victims of ‘crime’. Moreover, within the category ‘victim’, the non-human environmental victim is seldom considered worthy of attention. From an eco-justice perspective, victimhood can be conceptualised in terms of environmental justice (the victim is human), ecological justice (the victim is specific environments) and species justice (the victim is animals, and plants). Hierarchies of victims between and within each of these categories can be identified. One response to these hierarchies is to assert the notion of ‘equal victimhood’ (based on the notion, for example, that all species should be considered equal or that the natural environment has its own intrinsic worth). However, the eco-justice approach adopted in this article argues that context (both social and ecological) is vital to understanding and responding to specific instances of environmental victimisation. Particular circumstances must be taken into account in the conceptualisations of victimisation and in the moral weighing up of interests and harms in any given situation.
Five-year outcome after pelvic floor reconstructive surgery: evaluation using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging compared to clinical examination and quality-of-life questionnaire
Authors: Alt Céline D , Benner Laura , Mokry Theresa , Lenz Florian , Hallscheidt Peter , Sohn Christof , Kauczor Hans-Ulrich , Brocker Kerstin A
Published: February 2018

Background

Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI) captures the entire pelvis during Valsalva maneuver and helps diagnosing pelvic floor changes after reconstructive surgery.

Purpose

To evaluate therapeutic outcome five years after reconstructive surgery using clinical examination, dMRI, and quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaire.

Material and Methods

Clinical examination, dMRI, and QOL questionnaire were conducted before surgery and in the follow-ups at 12 weeks, one year, and five years in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) stage ≥2. dMRI was performed at 1.5-T using a predefined protocol including sagittal T2-weighted (T2W) sequence at rest and sagittal T2W true-FISP sequence at maximum strain for metric POP measurements (reference points = bladder, cervix, pouch, rectum). Pelvic organ mobility (POM) was defined as the difference of the metric measurement at maximum strain and at rest.

Results

Twenty-six women with 104 MRI examinations were available for analysis. dMRI results mostly differ to clinical examination regarding the overall five-year outcome and the posterior compartment in particular. dMRI diagnosed substantially more patients with recurrent or de novo POP in the posterior compartment (n = 17) compared to clinical examination (n = 4). POM after five years aligns to preoperative status except for the bladder. POM reflects best the QOL results regarding defecation disorders.

Conclusion

A tendency for recurrent and de novo POP was seen in all diagnostic modalities applied. dMRI objectively visualizes the interaction of the pelvic organs and the pelvic floor after reconstructive surgery and POM correlated best with the women’s personal impression on pelvic floor complaints.
Subnational gender balances in South Korea
Authors: Abel Guy J , Heo Nayoung
Published: February 2018

Within one generation, the South Korean economy developed from one of the poorest countries in the world during the 1950s to a developed, high-income country by the end of the 1990s. During the latter part of this period, South Korea (hereafter called Korea) experienced rapid demographic change characterized by a steep decline in fertility levels and abnormally high sex ratios at birth. Unlike other East and South-East Asian countries that underwent similar economic and demographic changes, Korea has witnessed a steady decline in the sex ratios at birth since the end of 1990s through 2000s. In this paper, we visualize the current spatial distribution of population born during the peak years of sex ratios at birth.
Dynamics of the Gender Earnings Inequality in Reform-Era Urban China
Authors: He Guangye , Wu Xiaogang
Published: February 2018

This article examines the differential impacts of marketisation and economic development on gender earnings inequality in reform-era urban China. Based on data from the 2005 population mini-census with prefecture-level statistics, we distinguish the effect of economic development from that of marketisation on the gender earnings gap. Multi-level analyses reveal that marketisation and economic development have affected gender inequality in different ways: whereas market forces have exacerbated gender earnings inequality, economic development has reduced it. Overall, marketisation appears to be the main driver of the increase in gender earnings inequality in urban China. Implications for policies promoting gender equality in China are discussed.
Welding deformation analysis of aluminum alloy and steel sheet metal parts based on resistance spot welding
Authors: Xing Yanfeng , Wang Fang , Lu Jingjing , Xu Sha
Published: February 2018

Auto-body lightweight is becoming an important trend of energy saving and emission reduction. Various materials assembled together would be used to fabricate the auto-body to satisfy this demand. However, the assembly dimensional quality is difficult to be controlled in the real processing due to the huge differences in material properties. Therefore, it is necessary to control and analyze the welding deformation of aluminum alloy and steel. In this work, the orthogonal design experiment has been adopted to analyze the welding deformation of steel–aluminum sheet parts. Subsequently, the response surface model is proposed to establish the relationship between welding deformation and welding parameters by finite element analysis, which is verified by physical experiments again. Meanwhile, the anti-deformation method is also used to decrease the assembly deformation successfully. And the case of Z-shaped planes is applied to further illustrate the proposed method of this work. Finally, the results show that both the methods have a good simulation effect and a high prediction accuracy for the assembly dimensional quality.
Inclined Lorentz force effects on 3D micropolar fluid flow due to a stretchable rotating disks with higher order chemical reaction
Authors: Muthtamilselvan M , Ramya E , Doh Deog-Hee
Published: February 2018

The present work deals with an inclined magnetohydrodynamic flow of a micropolar fluid occurring between two stretchable disks rotating co-axially at a constant distance apart by taking into account higher order chemical reaction effects. Using similarity variables the Navier–Stokes equations, which represent the momentum, microrotation, energy, and concentration, are transformed into ordinary differential equations. The transformed conservation equations are solved numerically by using the Nachtsheim–Swigert shooting iteration technique along with sixth-order Runge–Kutta integration scheme. The influence of governing parameters are shown graphically and discussed. It was observed that an increase in the aligned angle strengthens the applied magnetic field and decreases the momentum boundary layer profiles of the micropolar fluid flow. Heat transfer rate reduces for larger values of chemical reaction Cr for both n = 1 and n = 2.
Exploring attitudes towards information competencies of students and faculty: A disciplinary perspective
Authors: Pinto Maria
Published: February 2018

Based on the importance related to a number of generic information literacy competencies, as stated by students and faculty members at a single institution, the aim of this paper is a deeper understanding of the structure which underlies this motivation component. From a starting exploratory factor analysis, Structural Equation Modeling statistics provides a model of structural relationships based on three motivational categories, related to seeking, analysis-evaluation and information synthesis-communication. This provisionally accepted Seeking-Analysis-Synthesis model allows for the better knowledge of belief-in-importance differences between groups of students and faculty, as well as among five areas of knowledge. A series of weak points in need of specific motivational interventions has been identified.
The Fall and Rise of Cotton Yarn ‘Manja’
Authors: Sachdeva Leena , Chatterjee Devjani
Published: February 2018

In the twenty-first century, managing organizational change has become one of the critical issues for the success of any organization. Dynamic changes in the business environment post liberalization, privatization and globalization in India have escalated organizational competition holistically. Moreover, changing government policies, recent technological advancements and increased management pressure to reduce costs have reshaped the entire organizational dynamics. Researchers suggest that creativity and innovation have an important role to play in the transition process of organizations to survive, it is in fact the ‘survival of fittest’ (Chatterjee, 2014). While technological innovation plays the key role in business growth, the success of management depends upon the effective utilization and allocation of resources which are necessary to bring out technological change (Dasgupta, Gupta, & Sahay, 2011). Hence, in order to survive in this competitive market, strategic implementation and management of organizational change have become pivotal for the organization’s survival. This case study explicitly explores and identifies the impact of environmental changes on the small-scale cotton yarn industry in India. Particularly, this study focuses on the changing demand of the cotton yarn ‘manja’ (a specific kind of processed, traditional cotton strings coated with glass to fly kites) in the Indian market against the high competition of the less expensive Chinese ‘manja’ (flying strings for kites made up of nylon and coated with iron, glass and metallic powder) and also as a result of recent favourable government policies to save the indigenous cotton yarn industry of India. Primary data has been collected from the strategic apex as well as from the middle management of the organization through interviews using open-ended and semi-structured questions. Secondary data such as government reports and news articles have also been used to understand the changing business trend in the cotton yarn industry in India. In a sense, the case focuses on two important factors stimulating organizational changes: (a) global competition affecting local business and (b) changes in government policies. Various organizational change models and theories have been used to understand the context of the case and critical strategies have been identified to effectively implement and manage the organizational change in light of the dynamic environmental upheaval.
Modeling the Elements and Effects of  Global Viral Advertising Content:  A Cross-cultural Framework
Authors: Sharma Rishi Raj , Kaur Balpreet
Published: February 2018

With advancements in information and communication technology, a lot of changes have come in the way the products are being promoted by the marketers across the globe. Viral marketing incites the consumers to disseminate marketing content through  various modes and one of which includes viral advertisements. The study analysed the content of global advertisements to explore the dominating factors in the ad content which makes them viral across the globe. Survey was conducted online among the respondents of Indian and American origin for measuring the effectiveness of the dominating elements on brand attitude and respondents’ intentions to purchase the advertised brand and to share the corresponding advertisements. Structural equation modeling (SEM), a multivariate technique, was used on two samples to measure effectiveness of advertising content across two countries. The content analysis results show that although a standardized advertising strategy is used across the global level, but as indicated by the distinctions revealed from the empirical analysis of choices of two cultures, it can be inferred that advertisement should be fairly similar across the different cultures. The study leaves an implication for the advertisers to customize their advertising content in compliance with the uniqueness of culture in different countries.
A rare and fatal cause of right iliac fossa pain—When retroperitoneal necrotizing fasciitis masquerades as acute appendicitis: A case report and review of recent reported cases
Authors: Chan Jing Jing , Sheth Sujata Kirtikant
Published: February 2018

Introduction:Retroperitoneal necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon, rapidly fatal condition which often mimics other diseases.Case presentation:We report a case of an elderly woman who was referred to our Emergency Department for suspected acute appendicitis. Computed tomography scan showed an iliopsoas abscess with necrotizing fasciitis on computed tomography scan. Despite aggressive surgical treatment and early antibiotics, she passed away 3 weeks later.Conclusion:Such a case has rarely been reported in an immunocompetent patient who has had no instrumentation, surgeries, or trauma. It serves to highlight the difficulty in diagnosing retroperitoneal necrotizing fasciitis, especially in the elderly patient, as well as the need to recognize it early in the Emergency Department.
Fracture and aspiration of tracheostomy tube: A case report
Authors: Wilson William , Nagaraja DM , Dias Ayesha , Murty Shakuntala
Published: February 2018

Fracture and aspiration of tracheostomy tube is a rare late complication of the tracheostomized patient. We report a case of a 30‐year‐old male patient, who was tracheostomized 2 years ago for prolonged ventilation secondary to organophosphorus poisoning. He presented with history of minimal cough without any respiratory distress and was otherwise hemodynamically stable. The chest x‐ray showed a metal tube lodged in the left main bronchus. The aspirated tracheostomy tube was removed by flexible bronchoscopy without any complications. Through this case, the authors highlight the need for proper care of a tracheostomy tube and also a rare complication of tracheostomy tube.
Culture as a Double-Edged Sword: The Posttraumatic Experience of Indigenous Ethnic Minority Veterans
Authors: Shorer Shai , Goldblatt Hadass , Caspi Yael , Azaiza Faisal
Published: February 2018

The applicability of Western concepts regarding the treatment of trauma in soldiers from indigenous ethnic minority backgrounds has scarcely been researched. This study explored the subjective meaning of living with chronic posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among indigenous Bedouin veterans of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), who are of Arab ethnicity and Muslim faith. In-depth, semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 10 Bedouin veterans suffering from PTSD and three Bedouin mental health clinicians working with this population. Two themes emerged: “I wanted to be like everyone else,” referring to participants’ experiences during their military service, and “Fluctuating between belonging and abandonment,” referring to veterans’ experiences of living with mental health problems in a traditional minority community. These findings highlight the importance of conducting a comprehensive inquiry into the complex cultural and social backgrounds of indigenous minority veterans suffering from PTSD, and the interplay between the conflicted identities and multiple “realities” they experience.
Pilot Randomized Phase II Trial of the Enhancing Quality of Life in Patients (EQUIP) Intervention for Patients With Advanced Lung Cancer
Authors: Yang Grace Meijuan , Teo Irene , Neo Shirlyn Hui-Shan , Tan Daniel , Cheung Yin Bun
Published: February 2018

Context:

New models of care that are effective and feasible for widespread implementation need to be developed for the delivery of early palliative care to patients with advanced cancer.

Objectives:

The objectives were to determine the feasibility and acceptability of the Enhancing Quality of Life in Patients (EQUIP) intervention, data completion rate of patient-reported outcome measures in the context of the EQUIP trial, and the estimated effect of the EQUIP intervention on quality of life and mood.

Methods:

In this pilot randomized phase II trial, eligible patients had newly diagnosed advanced lung cancer and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0, 1, or 2. Randomization was to the control group that received standard oncology care or to the intervention group where patients individually received the EQUIP intervention, comprising 4 face-to-face educational sessions with a nurse.

Results:

A total of 69 patients were recruited. In the intervention group, 30 (85.7%) of 35 patients completed all 4 EQUIP sessions. All patients were satisfied with the topics shared and felt they were useful. However, there was no significant difference between intervention and control groups in terms of quality of life and mood at 12 weeks after baseline.

Conclusion:

This pilot study showed that nurse-directed face-to-face educational sessions were feasible and acceptable to patients with advanced lung cancer. However, there was no indication of benefit of the EQUIP intervention on quality of life and mood. This could be due in part to a low prevalence of targeted symptoms.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Tier 2 Behavioral Progress Monitoring
Authors: Bruhn Allison L. , McDaniel Sara C. , Rila Ashley , Estrapala Sara
Published: February 2018

Students who are at risk for or show low-intensity behavioral problems may need targeted, Tier 2 interventions. Often, Tier 2 problem-solving teams are charged with monitoring student responsiveness to intervention. This process may be difficult for those who are not trained in data collection and analysis procedures. To aid practitioners in these worthwhile tasks, we offer a step-by-step guide to collecting and evaluating Tier 2 behavioral progress monitoring data. This systematic approach includes (a) selecting an appropriate method of measurement, (b) planning for data collection and evaluation, (c) collecting and analyzing data, (d) considering treatment fidelity, and (e) adjusting intervention based on student responsiveness. Each step is described in detail with specific examples and additional resources are provided.
Barriers to and Methods of Help Seeking for Domestic Violence Victimization: A Comparison of Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White Women Residing in the United States
Authors: Bridges Ana J. , Karlsson Marie E. , Jackson Jennifer C. , Andrews Arthur R. , Villalobos Bianca T.
Published: February 2018

This study examined strategies Hispanic and non-Hispanic White victims of domestic violence use to manage violence and leave their relationships. Participants ( N = 76, 41% Hispanic) completed self-report questionnaires and a semistructured interview with a language-congruent research assistant. Hispanics reported child care needs and fears of social embarrassment as barriers to leaving, while non-Hispanic Whites reported fewer social supports as a barrier. Hispanics were more likely to use legal resources for help, while non-Hispanic Whites used more informal resources. Recognizing unique barriers to leaving abusive relationships and accessing help can guide service providers and others to target vulnerable populations more effectively.
The kinetics of thermal degradation of polyphenolic compounds from elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) extract
Authors: Oancea Ana-Maria , Onofrei Cristina , Turturică Mihaela , Bahrim Gabriela , Râpeanu Gabriela , Stănciuc Nicoleta
Published: February 2018

This main focus of this study was to evaluate the thermal degradation kinetics and the phytochemical characterization of the elderberries extract. Pelargonidin-3-sophoroside and delphinidin-3-glucoside were identified as the major anthocyanin compounds and catechin hydrate as the major flavonoid compound. In order to further understand the action of the heat treatment on the bioactive compounds from elderberry extract, fluorescence studies were also carried out. In general, heating at temperatures ranging from 100 to 150 ℃ for up to 90 min caused a decrease in fluorescence intensity, simultaneously with significant redshifts in λmax suggesting important molecular changes inside the anthocyanins structure, affecting the antioxidant activity. Increasing the heating time up to 120 min, the elderberry extract peaked at about 88 nm shifted toward higher wavelengths with respect to that of untreated solutions (peak at 442 nm). The kinetics studies of anthocyanins, fluorescence intensity, and antioxidant activity evidenced a decrease of the degradation rate constants with increased temperature while the activation energies for heat-induced fluorescence intensity, monomeric anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity were 39.62 ± 9.60, 49.97 ± 5.61, and 31.04 ± 19.92 kJ/mol, respectively. Our results can be valuable in terms of establishing the appropriate processing and formulation protocols that could lead to a more efficient utilization of these pigments in actual food products and/or nutraceuticals.
Approximations to an Integrated Model of Eating Disorders and Muscle Dysmorphia among University Male Students in Argentina
Authors: Compte Emilio J. , Sepúlveda Ana R. , Torrente Fernando
Published: February 2018

Male body dissatisfaction has been associated with drive for muscularity and, in extreme cases, with the clinical condition referred to as muscle dysmorphia (MD). Although recent research suggests that MD is closely linked to eating disorders (EDs), it is classed as a subtype of body dysmorphic disorder. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 402 university male students in Buenos Aires to examine common factors in the development of EDs and MD. Multiple regression analyses were performed to assess the predictive value of the investigated variables. For both conditions, the models accounted for 48 percent of the variance and were predicted by a similar set of variables. The results support the inclusion of MD within the EDs spectrum.
A Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence Immunoassay Method for the Measurement of Compound W
Authors: Huang Biao , Yu Huixin , Bao Jiandong , Zhang Manda , Green William L , Wu Sing-Yung
Published: February 2018

Objective:

Using compound W (a 3,3′-diiodothyronine sulfate [T2S] immuno-crossreactive material)-specific polyclonal antibodies and homogeneous time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay assay techniques (AlphaLISA) to establish an indirect competitive compound W (ICW) quantitative detection method.

Method:

Photosensitive particles (donor beads) coated with compound W or T2S and rabbit anti-W antibody were incubated with biotinylated goat anti-rabbit antibody. This constitutes a detection system with streptavidin-coated acceptor particle. We have optimized the test conditions and evaluated the detection performance.

Results:

The sensitivity of the method was 5 pg/mL, and the detection range was 5 to 10 000 pg/mL. The intra-assay coefficient of variation averages <10% with stable reproducibility.

Conclusions:

The ICW-AlphaLISA shows good stability and high sensitivity and can measure a wide range of compound W levels in extracts of maternal serum samples. This may have clinical application to screen congenital hypothyroidism in utero.
Combined effects of turbulence and elastic deformation on the performance of a journal bearing lubricated with a couple stress fluid
Authors: Chetti Boualem
Published: February 2018

This paper presents a numerical study of the effect of turbulence and elastic deformation on the performance of a journal bearing operating with couple stress fluids, following Constantinescu’s turbulent lubrication theory. The modified Reynolds equation is derived taking into consideration the effect of turbulence and couple stresses. The modified Reynolds equation is solved using finite difference method. The results in terms of the load-carrying capacity, the attitude angle, friction coefficient and the side leakage are reported for various values of the couple stress parameter, the elastic coefficient, and Reynolds number. According to the obtained results, the couple stress fluid improves the performance characteristics of the rigid and deformed journal bearing in laminar and turbulent regimes. The results also show that bearing deformation and the turbulent regime cannot be neglected in calculating the performance characteristics of journal bearings lubricated with a Newtonian and a couple stress fluid.
‘I bend, indeed, but never break’: Formal rules and informal processes of candidate selection for European elections
Authors: Kelbel Camille
Published: February 2018

Many of the criticisms commonly made of modern political parties concern their alleged lack of transparency and use of informality in their inner organization. Yet, little is known about the extent to which parties really bend their rules. This article investigates whether and how political parties use informality in one central aspect of intra-party life: candidate selection. More specifically, selection procedures for European elections are examined since party actions at the European level are still under little scrutiny from the media and the voters, hence granting them much leeway. To compare rules with practices, actors and levels cited in 51 party statutes are matched with their uses in 2014, gathered through a survey and interviews of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Even though informal processes are found to be generally less inclusive than the rules prescribed, divergences are often modest, suggesting that parties do not necessarily rely on informality in their day-to-day functioning.
Parental reactions to parent- and sibling-directed aggression within a domestic violence context
Authors: Desir Michelle P , Karatekin Canan
Published: February 2018

Parent- and sibling-directed aggression by minor children are two forms of family violence that often co-occur and have strong relations to prior exposure to domestic violence, yet are often overlooked in intervention efforts. In addition, current research does not examine these forms of family violence in tandem, and there is very limited research with samples exposed to domestic violence. To better understand how these forms of aggression operate within a domestic violence context, we interviewed 44 women residing in a domestic violence shelter with at least one child over 3.5 years of age who was aggressive toward them and/or siblings. Caregivers reported on their emotional reactions to children’s parent-directed aggression and the types of and effectiveness of help they sought for parent- and/or sibling-directed aggression. In line with previous literature, caregivers endorsed a complex mix of emotional reactions to their children’s parent-directed aggression, including anger, sadness, guilt, forgiveness, and worthlessness. In contrast to other studies, most caregivers (89%) had sought help for children’s parent- and/or sibling-directed aggression and found it effective. Findings contribute to the literature on parent- and sibling-directed aggression and provide implications for how to effectively intervene.
Discrimination as a social determinant of stress and health among New York City taxi drivers
Authors: Mirpuri Sheena , Ocampo Alex , Narang Bharat , Roberts Nicole , Gany Francesca
Published: February 2018

Discrimination is associated with poorer mental and physical health outcomes. Taxi drivers have a higher risk of exposure to discrimination and higher rates of chronic conditions. A cross-sectional needs assessment was conducted with a multilingual group of 535 male taxi drivers in New York City. Drivers reporting higher discrimination were more likely to have higher perceived stress and were more likely to have anxiety/depression and chronic pain, adjusting for confounders. Workplace-based interventions designed to help drivers cope with discrimination, stress, and chronic health conditions, interventions to educate the taxi-riding public, and greater attention to these issues from administrative agencies are warranted.
Cyclic behavior of concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frames incorporating 100% recycled concrete aggregates
Authors: Li Jun-Tao , Chen Zong-Ping , Xu Jin-Jun , Jing Cheng-Gui , Xue Jian-Yang
Published: February 2018

Concrete-filled steel tubular structural members can be recognized as an effective mean to improve the mechanical behavior in terms of strength, stiffness, ductility, and energy dissipation for the initial recycle aggregate concrete deficiencies compared with natural aggregate concrete. A small-scale model of square concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frame realized employing 100% recycled coarse aggregates was tested under combined axial loads and cyclic reversed lateral flexure. The failure modes, plastic hinges sequence, hysteresis loop, skeleton curve, stiffness degeneration, energy dissipation capacity, and ductility of the frame were presented and analyzed in detail. The structural behavior of square concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frame with 100% recycled coarse aggregates was compared with circular concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frame made with 100% recycled coarse aggregates. A fiber-based program model for the nonlinear analysis of concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frames incorporating recycled coarse aggregates was developed using SeismoStruct, to highlight the effect of recycled coarse aggregate content on mechanical behavior of recycled aggregate concrete and the confinement effect provided by outer tubes on core concrete. The analysis results show that the numerical model can well simulate and predict the seismic behavior of concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frames with 100% recycled coarse aggregate content. Both experimental and numerical results demonstrate that concrete-filled steel tubular column–reinforced concrete beam frames with large content of recycled coarse aggregates have a receivable seismic performance, and it is feasible to apply and popularize recycled aggregate concrete into concrete-filled steel tubular structures in seismic regions.