bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilingual Sentiment Analysis: A New Approach to Measuring Conflict in Legislative Speeches
Authors: Proksch Sven‐Oliver , Lowe Will , Wäckerle Jens , Soroka Stuart
Published: October 2018

Comparative scholars of legislative politics continue to face the challenge of measuring a key theoretical concept: conflict at the level of legislative bills. We address this challenge with a multilingual sentiment‐based approach and show that such a measure can effectively capture different types of parliamentary conflict. We also demonstrate that an automated translation of the dictionary yields valid results and therefore greatly facilitates comparative work on legislatures. Our applications show that a sentiment approach recovers government‐opposition dynamics in various settings. The use of a simple, translatable sentiment dictionary opens up the possibility of studying legislative conflict in bill debates across languages and countries.
Superreplication with proportional transaction cost under model uncertainty
Authors: Bouchard Bruno , Deng Shuoqing , Tan Xiaolu
Published: October 2018

We consider a discrete‐time financial market with proportional transaction cost under model uncertainty, and study a superreplication problem. We recover the duality results that are well known in the classical dominated context. Our key argument consists in using a randomization technique together with the minimax theorem to convert the initial problem to a frictionless problem on an enlarged space. This allows us to appeal to the techniques and results of Bouchard and Nutz to obtain the duality result.
On the relation between linearity‐generating processes and linear‐rational models
Authors: Filipović Damir , Larsson Martin , Trolle Anders B.
Published: October 2018

We review the notion of a linearity‐generating (LG) process introduced by Gabaix and relate LG processes to linear‐rational (LR) models studied by Filipović et al. We show that every LR model can be represented as an LG process and vice versa. We find that LR models have two basic properties that make them an important representation of LG processes. First, LR models can be easily specified and made consistent with nonnegative interest rates. Second, LR models go naturally with the long‐term risk factorization due to Alvarez and Jermann, Hansen and Scheinkman, and Qin and Linetsky. Every LG process under the long forward measure can be represented as a lower dimensional LR model.
Cover's universal portfolio, stochastic portfolio theory, and the numéraire portfolio
Authors: Cuchiero Christa , Schachermayer Walter , Wong Ting‐Kam Leonard
Published: October 2018

Cover's celebrated theorem states that the long‐run yield of a properly chosen “universal” portfolio is almost as good as that of the best retrospectively chosen constant rebalanced portfolio. The “universality” refers to the fact that this result is model‐free, that is, not dependent on an underlying stochastic process. We extend Cover's theorem to the setting of stochastic portfolio theory: the market portfolio is taken as the numéraire, and the rebalancing rule need not be constant anymore but may depend on the current state of the stock market. By fixing a stochastic model of the stock market this model‐free result is complemented by a comparison with the numéraire portfolio. Roughly speaking, under appropriate assumptions the asymptotic growth rate coincides for the three approaches mentioned in the title of this paper. We present results in both discrete and continuous time.
Entry under an Information‐Gathering Monopoly
Authors: Barrachina Alex
Published: October 2018

The effects of information‐gathering activities on an entry model with asymmetric information are analysed. The baseline game is a classical entry game where an incumbent monopoly faces potential entry by a firm without knowing for certain whether this potential entrant is weak or strong. If the entrant decides to enter, the incumbent must compete with him and decide whether to accommodate or to fight. The paper extends this entry game and considers that the monopoly credibly informs the entrant that she is able to gather information about his type if he finally enters the market, thereby helping her to better decide whether to accommodate or fight. Since knowing this might reduce the entrant’s willingness to compete with her, we focus the analysis on the effectiveness of this monopoly’s communicative action as an entry deterrence strategy. The results suggest that such an action is effective regardless of the precision of the Intelligence System (IS) only for a relatively low payoff gained by the entrant from competing with the incumbent. For higher payoffs for the entrant, the effectiveness of this action requires a considerably accurate IS.
Coping with Conflict: Testosterone and Cortisol Changes in Men Dealing with Disagreement about Values versus Resources
Authors: Harinck Fieke , Kouzakova Marina , Ellemers Naomi , Scheepers Daan
Published: October 2018

In an experimental design, we manipulated disagreement about values versus resources (N = 36). We investigated, using male participants, how the nature of the conflict affects testosterone and cortisol changes. We hypothesized a testosterone increase in response to disagreement about resources, but no increase when values were at stake. Results corroborated this idea. This research illustrates how psychological factors affect neuroendocrine and coping responses to social stressors and conflict.
Abnormal esophageal motility during a solid test meal in systemic sclerosis—detection even in very early disease and association with disease progression
Authors: Bütikofer Simon , Jordan Suzana , Sauter Matthias , Hollenstein Michael , Heinrich Henriette , Freitas‐Queiroz Natália , Kuntzen Thomas , Ang Daphne , Oberacher Marcos , Maurer Britta , Schwizer Werner , Fox Mark , Distler Oliver , Misselwitz Benjamin
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study assessed whether high‐resolution manometry (HRM) with a test meal can detect clinically relevant, abnormal motility already in very early systemic sclerosis (SSc) and whether this finding is associated with subsequent disease progression.

Methods

This prospective, longitudinal cohort study recruited 68 consecutive SSc patients (group #1: 32 established disease (ACR, American College of Rheumatology /EULAR, The European League against Rheumatism 2013 and ACR 1980 criteria fulfilled); group #2: 24 early disease (only ACR/EULAR 2013 fulfilled); group #3: 12 very early disease (clinical expert diagnosis of SSc) and 72 healthy controls. HRM evaluated esophageal motility for water swallows and a solid test meal.

Results

Systemic sclerosis patients had less frequent effective esophageal contractions during the test meal compared to healthy controls even in very early disease (0.15, 1.0, 2.1 per minute for groups #1, #2, and #3, vs 2.5 per minute in health; P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.0085, respectively). Ineffective motility at HRM was associated with a higher modified Rodnan skin score at baseline. Moreover, at mean 18 (10‐31) months of follow‐up, the presence of ineffective motility at baseline was associated with progression of skin disease (P = 0.01). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis identified hypotensive peristalsis in the test meal (<15% effective solid swallows) and low distal contractile integral (DCI; <400 mm Hg·cm·s) as predictors for skin aggravation, but not for new organ involvement.

Conclusion

Ineffective motility during a test meal is present already in patients with very early SSc. Findings on HRM studies are associated with disease severity at baseline, and low percentage of effective swallows in test meal and low mean DCI are both predictors of skin progression during follow‐up.
A PAX3/BRN2 rheostat controls the dynamics of BRAF mediated MITF regulation in MITFhigh/AXLlow melanoma
Authors: Smith Michael P. , Rana Sareena , Ferguson Jennifer , Rowling Emily J. , Flaherty Keith T. , Wargo Jennifer A. , Marais Richard , Wellbrock Claudia
Published: October 2018

The BRAF kinase and the MAPK pathway are targets of current melanoma therapies. However, MAPK pathway inhibition results in dynamic changes of downstream targets that can counteract inhibitor‐action not only in during treatment, but also in acquired resistant tumours. One such dynamic change involves the expression of the transcription factor MITF, a crucial regulator of cell survival and proliferation in untreated as well as drug‐addicted acquired resistant melanoma. Tight control over MITF expression levels is required for optimal melanoma growth, and while it is well established that the MAPK pathway regulates MITF expression, the actual mechanism is insufficiently understood. We reveal here, how BRAF through action on the transcription factors BRN2 and PAX3 executes control over the regulation of MITF expression in a manner that allows for considerable plasticity. This plasticity provides robustness to the BRAF mediated MITF regulation and explains the dynamics in MITF expression that are observed in patients in response to MAPK inhibitor therapy.
The Impact of Working Capital Financing Costs on the Efficiency of Trade Credit
Authors: Devalkar Sripad K. , Krishnan Harish
Published: October 2018

We consider how trade credit can coordinate a two‐echelon supply chain in the presence of supplier moral hazard and costly working capital financing. While trade credit resolves moral hazard problems in the absence of working capital financing costs, we show that this is not necessarily true when financial frictions make financing trade credit costly. We then show that trade credit along with an appropriately designed reverse factoring program can restore supply chain efficiency.
How the “Northern Irish” National Identity Is Understood and Used by Young People and Politicians
Authors: McNicholl Kevin , Stevenson Clifford , Garry John
Published: October 2018

The conventional understanding of the nation within social psychology is as a category of people or “imagined community.” However, work within the discursive tradition shows that citizens tend to discuss nationhood in a variety of modes, including the use of nonhuman categories such as references to the physical landscape of the country. This article aims to give a more comprehensive overview of how young people understand the Northern Irish identity, a new and potentially inclusive national category in a divided society, and how politicians articulate it in rhetoric. In Study 1, students (N = 286) discussed this identity in 44 peer‐led focus groups. Thematic analysis of their discussions shows four distinct ways in which it is constructed: as a distinctive people, as an identity claim, as a “hot” political project, and as a “cold” or banal indicator of place. In Study 2, Members of the Legislative Assembly at Stormont (N = 49) responded to open‐ended questions about the Northern Irish identity. Each of the parties used different conceptualizations for rhetorical effect. These results give a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of national identity and its ability to promote political agendas.
A comparative study: visual rating scores and the voxel‐based specific regional analysis system for Alzheimer's disease on magnetic resonance imaging among subjects with Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, and normal cognition
Authors: Li Fangzhou , Takechi Hajime , Saito Ryuji , Ayaki Takashi , Kokuryu Atsuko , Kuzuya Akira , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: October 2018

Aim

Hippocampal atrophy shown on magnetic resonance imaging can differentiate Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients from subjects with normal cognition (NC). Simplified automated methods that use volumetric analysis, such as as the voxel‐based specific regional analysis system for AD, have become widely used in Japan. However, the diagnostic value of the voxel‐based specific regional analysis system compared with visual rating scores for clinical diagnosis is unclear.

Methods

Study participants consisted of 37 AD patients, 29 mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients, and 21 NC subjects. All participants underwent neuropsychological testing and magnetic resonance imaging. The imaging was scored visually for regional brain atrophy by two raters based on a newly developed visual rating score. The voxel‐based specific regional analysis system for AD scores were calculated with the analysis system's advanced software. We analyzed whether these scores aid in discriminating among AD, MCI, and NC.

Results

The AD group had significantly different visual rating scores, regional analysis scores, and all neuropsychological test scores than the NC group. The AD group had significantly different visual rating scores than the MCI group, and a significant difference was observed between the MCI and NC groups on regional analysis scores. Both the visual rating and regional analysis scores showed equivalent correlations with the neuropsychological test scores.

Conclusions

Both the visual rating and regional analysis scores are clinically useful tools for differentiating among AD, MCI, and NC.
Terrorism Risk Assessment, Recollection Bias, and Public Support for Counterterrorism Policy and Spending
Authors: Liu Xinsheng , Portney Kent E. , Mumpower Jeryl L. , Vedlitz Arnold
Published: October 2018

Recollection bias (RB) refers to the phenomenon whereby after an adverse event people report that their risk assessment about a similar future event is presently no higher than their recollection of their pre‐event risk assessment. While previous research has outlined this theoretical construct and generated important empirical findings, there were some limitations. We design and employ a new national representative survey to address these limitations in this study. We examine the existence and persistence of RB among the general public in the context of a number of domestic and international terrorist attacks. We further examine the socioeconomic and political base of RB and the influences of RB on a wide range of citizens’ counterterrorism policy preferences. Our data analyses reveal strong evidence showing the occurrence of RB and its persistence across various forms of terrorism risk. With regard to the socioeconomic and political base, we find that females, older people, political conservatives, and Republicans are less likely to be subject to RB. For the effects of RB on public counterterrorism policy preferences, our analyses demonstrate that this bias significantly dampens public support for a wide range of preventive policy measures and government anti‐terrorism spending. Overall, our study, based on a national representative sample and an extended survey design, provides robust evidence of RB in terrorism risk assessment, and adds further evidence to support the idea that RB is likely a generalizable phenomenon. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed in the conclusion.
Micro‐impacts of the Brazilian Regional Development Funds: Does lending size matter?
Authors: Oliveira Guilherme Resende , Resende Guilherme Mendes , Silva Diego Firmino Costa da , Gonçalves Caio Nogueira
Published: October 2018

This paper evaluates the micro‐impacts of regional development funds in Brazil—the Constitutional Financing Funds (CFF)—using fixed effects panel data models and generalized propensity score between 2000 and 2012. Assessing the industrial and commerce/services sectors using fixed effects models, the results provide weak evidence of a positive and statistically significant impact of the CFF on job creation and no statistically significant impact on labor productivity growth at the firm level. Regarding dose‐response estimates, the results present evidence of nonlinear effects after three years of financing, suggesting that the amount of subsidized credit plays an important role in creating jobs and improving firm productivity.
Long‐term effect of migration background on the development of physical fitness among primary school children
Authors: Ruedl Gerhard , Ewald Peter , Niedermeier Martin , Kirschner Werner , Kopp Martin , Drenowatz Clemens , Greier Klaus
Published: October 2018

Background

Children with a low socioeconomic status and migration background are more likely to exhibit unfavorable health behavior patterns and higher BMI scores as well as lower physical activity and physical fitness.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of migration background on the development of physical fitness among primary school children from first to third grade.

Methods

In this longitudinal study, height, weight, and physical fitness of primary school children from Tyrol/Austria were measured five times over a period of 2.5 years using the German motor performance test DMT 6‐18 consisting of eight items testing different subdomains of physical fitness.

Results

A total of 266 children (45% girls) participated in all five tests, of which 69 (26%) children reported to have a migration background (MB). Mixed‐model ANOVA did not reveal a significantly different development of physical fitness (according to the mean total Z‐score of DMT 6‐18) over time, P = 0.883, partial ƞ2 < 0.01. However, children with MB showed significantly lower physical fitness compared to children without MB, P < 0.001, partial ƞ2 = 0.06. Controlling for BMI and age did not alter the interpretation of the results. Analyses of the single test items revealed significant differences in motor tests involving strength and endurance.

Conclusion

Primary school children with and without MB significantly increased their physical fitness over time in a comparable manner. However, children with MB showed a significantly lower physical fitness at all test time points, which was only partly explained by a higher mean BMI in children with MB. Children with MB outreached the mean baseline fitness level of children without MB not until the fourth test time point, that is after two years. Therefore, a special focus on physical fitness particularly including strength and endurance capacities should be directed to children with MB already in young ages.
Anemia in hospitalized patients: an overlooked risk in medical care
Authors: Krishnasivam Deepan , Trentino Kevin M. , Burrows Sally , Farmer Shannon L. , Picardo Sherman , Leahy Michael F. , Halder Abir , Chamberlain Jenny , Swain Stuart , Muthucumarana Kalindu , Waterer Grant
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the association between nadir anemia and mortality and length of stay (LOS) in a general population of hospitalized patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of tertiary hospital admissions in Western Australia between July 2010 and June 2015. Outcome measures were in‐hospital mortality and LOS.

RESULTS

Of 80,765 inpatients, 45,675 (56.55%) had anemia during admission. Mild and moderate/severe anemia were independently associated with increased in‐hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36‐1.86, p = 0.001; OR 2.77, 95% CI 2.32‐3.30, p < 0.001, respectively). Anemia was also associated with increased LOS, demonstrating a larger effect in emergency (mild anemia—incident rate ratio [IRR] 1.52, 95% CI 1.48‐1.56, p < 0.001; moderate/severe anemia—IRR 2.18, 95% CI 2.11‐2.26, p < 0.001) compared to elective admissions (mild anemia—IRR 1.30, 95% CI 1.21‐1.41, p < 0.001; moderate/severe anemia—IRR 1.69, 95% CI 1.55‐1.83, p < 0.001). LOS was longer in patients who developed anemia during admission compared to those who had anemia on admission (IRR 1.13, 95% CI 1.10‐1.17, p < 0.001). Red cell transfusion was independently associated with 2.23 times higher odds of in‐hospital mortality (95% CI 1.89‐2.64, p < 0.001) and 1.31 times longer LOS (95% CI 1.25‐1.37, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

More than one‐third of patients not anemic on admission developed anemia during admission. Even mild anemia is independently associated with increased mortality and LOS; however, transfusion to treat anemia is an independent and additive risk factor.
Glycated hemoglobin concentrations of red blood cells minimally increase during storage under standard blood banking conditions
Authors: Prosenz Julian , Öhlinger Thomas , Müllner Ernst W. , Marculescu Rodrig , Gerner Christopher , Salzer Ulrich , Kiefer Florian W. , Baron David M.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Few and inconsistent data exist describing the effect of storage duration on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) concentrations of red blood cells (RBCs), impeding interpretation of HbA1c values in transfused diabetic patients. Hence the aim of this study was to evaluate to what extent HbA1c concentrations of RBCs change during the maximum allowed storage period of 42 days.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Blood was drawn from 16 volunteers, leukofiltered, and stored under standard blood banking conditions. HbA1c concentrations of RBCs were measured on Days 1 and 42 of storage using three different validated devices (ion‐exchange high‐performance liquid chromatography Method A1 and A2, turbidimetric immunoassay Method B).

RESULTS

Mean HbA1c concentrations of RBCs on Day 1 were 5.3 ± 0.3% (Method A1), 5.4 ± 0.4% (Method A2), and 5.1 ± 0.4% (Method B). HbA1c concentrations increased to 5.6 ± 0.3% (A1, p < 0.0001), 5.7 ± 0.3% (A2, p = 0.004), and 5.5 ± 0.4% (B, p < 0.0001) on Day 42, respectively, corresponding to a 1.06‐fold increase across all methods. Glucose concentrations in the storage solution of RBCs decreased from 495 ± 27 to 225 ± 55 mg/dL (p < 0.0001), confirming that stored RBCs were metabolically active.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest a significant, albeit minor, and most likely clinically insignificant increase in HbA1c concentrations during storage of RBCs for 42 days.
Renal perfusion parameters measured by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in healthy dogs demonstrate a wide range of variability in the long‐term
Authors: Liu Daisy J.X. , Hesta Myriam , Stock Emmelie , Bogaerts Evelien , Broeckx Bart J.G. , Saunders Jimmy H. , Vanderperren Katrien
Published: October 2018

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound may be helpful for detecting early renal microvascular damage and dysfunction in dogs. However, before this noninvasive imaging method can be tested as an early‐stage screening tool in clinical patients, an improved understanding of long‐term variation in healthy animals is needed. In this prospective, secondary, longitudinal, serial measurements study, variability of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound renal perfusion parameters was described for eight healthy dogs, using seven time points and a period of 83 weeks. Dogs were sedated with butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg), and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound of each kidney was performed after an intravenous bolus injection of a microbubble contrast agent (0.04 mL/kg). Time‐intensity curves were created from regions‐of‐interest drawn in the renal cortex and medulla. Intensity‐related parameters representing blood volume and time‐related parameters representing blood velocity were determined. A random‐effects model using restricted maximum likelihood was used to estimate variance components. Within‐dog coefficient of variation was defined as the ratio of the standard deviation over the mean. Time‐related parameters such as time‐to‐peak, rise and fall time had lowest within‐dog variability. Intensity‐related parameters such as peak enhancement, wash‐in and wash‐out area under the curve, total area under the curve, and wash‐in and washout rates had high within‐dog variability (coefficient of variation > 45%). Authors therefore recommend the use of time‐related parameters for future studies of renal perfusion. Within‐dog variability for bilateral kidney measurements was extremely low, therefore contrast‐enhanced ultrasound may be particularly useful for detecting unilateral changes in renal perfusion. Future studies are needed to compare contrast‐enhanced ultrasound findings in healthy dogs versus dogs with renal disease.
The bacterial Ras/Rap1 site-specific endopeptidase RRSP cleaves Ras through an atypical mechanism to disrupt Ras-ERK signaling
Authors: Biancucci Marco , Minasov George , Banerjee Avik , Herrera Alfa , Woida Patrick J. , Kieffer Matthew B. , Bindu Lakshman , Abreu-Blanco Maria , Anderson Wayne F. , Gaponenko Vadim , Stephen Andrew G. , Holderfield Matthew , Satchell Karla J. F.
Published: October 2018

A bacterial toxin effector domain disrupts RAS-ERK signaling by cleaving RAS through an unusual mechanism.
New connections: Kinase inhibitors as antivirals
Authors: Williams Erin R.
Published: October 2018

Proteomics approaches identify diverse host kinases as potential antiviral therapeutic targets.
Not just another nursemaid’s: an enigmatic paediatric humeral fracture
Authors: Cope Brandon , Tracy Michael
Published: October 2018

In the medical literature, the discussion of radial head subluxation (RHS) and nursemaid’s elbow may highlight the ability to diagnose and treat the injured patient without obtaining imaging studies. This case reiterates the importance of a thorough physical examination and the use of appropriate imaging when point tenderness is exposed in the injured limb. With point tenderness to the arm, a child with a presumed RHS, otherwise known as nursemaid’s elbow, should be evaluated using radiographic imaging to prevent additional potentially destructive physical manipulation of the patient’s upper extremity.
Autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy associated with Sjögren’s syndrome presenting with recurrent abdominal distension
Authors: Yoshida Takeshi , Kinjo Mitsuyo , Nakane Shunya
Published: October 2018

A 65-year-old woman with Sjögren’s syndrome presented with recurrent abdominal distension, constipation, weight loss, orthostatic dizziness, loss of sweating and incomplete emptying of the bladder. Gastrointestinal dilatation but no evidence of malignancy or obstruction was found on CT of the abdomen, oesophagogastroduodenoscopy or colonoscopy. Postvoiding residual urine volume was increased. Antiganglionic acetylcholine receptor antibody was positive. We diagnosed as autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy. The patient responded to corticosteroid treatment. One year after treatment, she continued to have mild gastrointestinal symptoms, but overall condition was stable without further intervention.
Unusual and rare case of generalised lymphadenopathy: Kimura’s disease
Authors: Arul Judah , Senthil Narayanasamy , Marappa Lakshmi
Published: October 2018

We report a case of Kimura’s disease in a 65-year-old woman who presented with generalised itching, abdominal pain, facial puffiness, difficulty in swallowing and loss of appetite. She was found to have generalised lymphadenopathy and a fine-needle aspiration cytology initially done revealed ‘reactive lymphadenitis’ which was inconclusive. PET-CT done showed features suggestive of lymphoma. Hence, lymph node biopsy was done for confirmation and incidentally after immunohistochemistry staining it turned out to be Kimura’s disease. High-dose steroid therapy was started and patient showed dramatic clinical and symptomatic improvement. Kimura’s disease almost always presents as cervical lymphadenopathy and usually never causes compressive symptoms. Our patient presented with compressive symptoms and generalised lymphadenopathy which is a rarity.
First-line ibrutinib for Bing-Neel syndrome
Authors: Tallant Aaron , Selig Daniel , Wanko Sam O , Roswarski Joseph
Published: October 2018

The authors present a case of an elderly man with a history of Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia in remission who presented with progressively worsening gait abnormalities and falls for several months. His examination was notable for bilateral lower extremity weakness and an unsteady gait. Brain and spinal MRI showed focal leptomeningeal enhancement in the brain and spinal column. Lumbar puncture was performed and cerebrospinal fluid flow cytometry demonstrated a monoclonal CD5/CD10-negative, CD20-positive B-cell lymphocyte population consistent with a diagnosis of Bing-Neel syndrome. He was started on ibrutinib, an oral Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and had marked improvement in his weakness and gait. Repeat imaging 2 months after starting ibrutinib showed improvement in his leptomeningeal enhancement. During subsequent follow-up, he continued to tolerate ibrutinib and had a sustained clinical response.
Advancement of the Harrington technique for reconstruction of pathological fractures of the acetabulum
Authors: Coomber Ross , Lopez D’Jon , Carrothers Andrew D
Published: October 2018

A 59-year-old man presented with hip pain secondary to metastatic prostate carcinoma affecting multiple sites, including his left acetabulum. The patient’s prognosis was good, he was active, independent, with a good quality of life, so was offered surgical reconstruction. The Harrington method involves passing metal rods from the ileum to the ischium and pubis to create a scaffold for hip replacement. This is the gold standard for reconstruction of acetabular metastatic defects. However, this method is prone to failure by medialisation of the construct in the long term. We present our technique of employing a novel modification to the Harrington reconstruction that offers additional support medially with a suprapectineal plate. This construct is strong and durable enough to facilitate immediate weight-bearing and prevent long-term medialisation.
Effects of the ‘11+ Kids’ injury prevention programme on severe injuries in children’s football: a secondary analysis of data from a multicentre cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Beaudouin Florian , Rössler Roland , aus der Fünten Karen , Bizzini Mario , Chomiak Jiri , Verhagen Evert , Junge Astrid , Dvorak Jiri , Lichtenstein Eric , Meyer Tim , Faude Oliver
Published: October 2018

Background

To assess the effects of the injury prevention programme ‘11+ Kids’ on reducing severe injuries in 7 to 13 year old football (soccer) players.

Methods

Football clubs (under-9, under-11 and under-13 age groups) from the Czech Republic, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland were cluster-randomised (clubs) into an intervention (INT) and a control group (CON). INT replaced their usual warm-up by ‘11+ Kids’ two times a week. CON followed their regular training regime. Match and training exposure and injury characteristics were recorded and injury incidence rates (IRs) and 95% CIs calculated. For the present analysis, only severe injuries (absence from training/match ≥28 days) were considered. Hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using extended Cox models.

Results

The overall IR of severe injuries per 1000 football hours was 0.33 (95% CI 0.25 to 0.43) in CON and 0.15 (95% CI 0.10 to 0.23) in INT. There was a reduction of severe overall (HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.72), match (0.41, 0.17 to 0.95) and training injuries (0.42, 0.21 to 0.86) in INT. The injury types that were prevented the most were: other bone injuries 66%, fractures 49% and sprains and ligament injuries 37%. Severe injuries located at the knee (82%), hip/groin (81%), the foot/toe (80%) and the ankle (65%) were reduced tremendously.

Conclusions

‘11+ Kids’ has a large preventive effect on severe injuries by investing only 15 to 20 min per training session. The present results should motivate coaches to implement effective injury prevention programmes such as the ‘11+ Kids’ in children’s football.

Trial registration number

NCT02222025.
Six months versus 12 months dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stent implantation in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (DAPT-STEMI): randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority trial
Authors: Kedhi Elvin , Fabris Enrico , van der Ent Martin , Buszman Pawel , von Birgelen Clemens , Roolvink Vincent , Zurakowski Alexander , Schotborgh Carl E , Hoorntje Jan C A , Eek Christian Hasbø , Cook Stéphane , Togni Marco , Meuwissen Martijn , van Royen Niels , van Vliet Ria , Wedel Hans , Delewi Ronak , Zijlstra Felix
Published: October 2018

Objective

To show that limiting dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) to six months in patients with event-free ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) results in a non-inferior clinical outcome versus DAPT for 12 months.

Design

Prospective, randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority trial.

Setting

Patients with STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and second generation zotarolimus-eluting stent.

Participants

Patients with STEMI aged 18 to 85 that underwent a primary PCI with the implantation of second generation drug-eluting stents were enrolled in the trial. Patients that were event-free at six months after primary PCI were randomised at this time point.

Interventions

Patients that were taking DAPT and were event-free at six months were randomised 1:1 to single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) (ie, aspirin only) or to DAPT for an additional six months. All patients that were randomised were then followed for another 18 months (ie, 24 months after the primary PCI).

Main outcome measures

The primary endpoint was a composite of all cause mortality, any myocardial infarction, any revascularisation, stroke, and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction major bleeding at 18 months after randomisation.

Results

A total of 1100 patients were enrolled in the trial between 19 December 2011 and 30 June 2015. 870 were randomised: 432 to SAPT versus 438 to DAPT. The primary endpoint occurred in 4.8% of patients receiving SAPT versus 6.6% of patients receiving DAPT (hazard ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.41 to 1.27, P=0.26). Non-inferiority was met (P=0.004 for non-inferiority), as the upper 95% confidence interval of 1.27 was smaller than the prespecified non-inferiority margin of 1.66.

Conclusions

DAPT to six months was non-inferior to DAPT for 12 months in patients with event-free STEMI at six months after primary PCI with second generation drug-eluting stents.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov
NCT01459627
.
Improved diabetes medication convenience and satisfaction in persons with type 2 diabetes after switching to insulin glargine 300 U/mL: results of the observational OPTIN-D study
Authors: Wieringa Thomas H , de Wit Maartje , Twisk Jos WR , Snoek Frank J
Published: October 2018

Objective

Insulin glargine 300 (Gla-300) provides less hypoglycemia risk and more flexibility in injection time. The extent to which these effects translate into improved patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is unknown, and is the subject of this observational study.

Research design and methods

Adults with type 2 diabetes treated with basal insulin for at least 6 months initiating Gla-300 were included. Data were collected at baseline (start Gla-300) and at 3-month and 6-month follow-up. Patients and physicians gave reasons for switching to Gla-300 at baseline and the extent to which Gla-300 fulfilled their expectations at 6 months. Mixed model analyses examined PRO changes over time, with emotional well-being (WHO-5 Well-Being Index) as the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes were hypoglycemia incidence, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), hypoglycemia worries (worry subscale of the Hypoglycemia Fear Survey), diabetes distress (short form of the Dutch version of the Problem Areas In Diabetes Scale), diabetes medication convenience (Diabetes Medication System Rating Questionnaire (DMSRQ)), sleep quality and duration (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), and adherence (Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities).

Results

162 patients participated: 53.70% were men, the mean age was 65.54 years (9.05), baseline mean HbA1c was 7.87% (1.15) (62.48 mmol/mol (12.61)), and mean diabetes duration was 15.14 years (6.65). Mean WHO-5 Well-Being Index scores improved non-significantly from 61.94 (19.52) at baseline (T0) to 63.83 (19.67) at 6 months (T2). Mean DMSRQ scores improved significantly from 32.96 (9.02) (T0) to 36.70 (8.85) (T2) (p<0.001). Dose (less volume) was a switching reason in 69.60% of patients and 63% of physicians, and flexibility in 33.30% and 24.70%, respectively. Gla-300 fulfilled the expectations or even better than expected in 92.30% of patients and 88.90% of physicians.

Conclusion

In a relatively well-controlled sample of adults with type 2 diabetes, switching to Gla-300 improves diabetes medication convenience.
Top 50 most-cited articles in medicine and science in football
Authors: Brito João , Nassis George P , Seabra André T , Figueiredo Pedro
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To conduct a comprehensive mapping analysis to the scientific literature published in football aiming to identify the areas of bigger interest and potential for further exploration.

Methods

The data were obtained by a search conducted on the Web of Science. Articles were listed based on citation frequency. We used an open-source bibliometrix R-package for the comprehensive bibliometric analyses.

Results

The number of citations per article ranged from 251 to 869 (median 323; IQR 125). The yearly number of citations ranged from 8 to 54 (median 26; IQR 11). Most of the articles (76%) were of level III of evidence, 10% were level II and 14% were level IV. Within the top 50 most-cited articles, 40 articles were original research (37 observational and 3 experimental studies), 9 were review articles and 1 was a thesis. From the 40 original research articles, 50% involved elite players, 73% were exclusive to male players and 80% involved adult players only. The topic area with the highest number of articles was sports medicine (44%), followed by training and testing (32%), performance analysis (14%) and physiology (10%). No study within the top 50 was devoted to biomechanics, nutrition, sport psychology, coaching or social sciences.

Conclusions

The lack of experimental studies within the top 50 most-cited articles in football clearly underpins how far we still are from establishing the theoretical and methodological guidelines for the applied science and medicine in football.
Development and validation of a screening instrument for cognitive fluctuation in patients with neurocognitive disorder with Lewy bodies (NCDLB): the Mayo Fluctuations Scale-Thai version
Authors: Thaipisuttikul Papan , Chittaropas Pitchayawadee , Wisajun Pattaraporn , Jullagate Sudawan
Published: October 2018

Background

Prevalence of neurocognitive disorder with Lewy bodies (NCDLB) is low in Asian populations, which may partially reflect its diagnostic difficulty. The Mayo Fluctuations Scale, a short questionnaire that evaluates cognitive fluctuation, has been shown to significantly differentiate NCDLB from Alzheimer’s disease.

Aim

This study aimed to develop the Mayo Fluctuations Scale-Thai version and assess its validity to screen NCDLB in an elderly population.

Methods

The Mayo Fluctuations Scale was translated into Thai. The process involved back-translation, cross-cultural adaptation, field testing of the prefinal version, as well as final adjustments. From all patients attending the Psychiatric and Memory Clinic at Ramathibodi Hospital, 135 patients accompanied by their primary caregivers were included. Caregivers were interviewed by research assistants using a four-item scale, and psychiatrists determined patients’ diagnosis based on the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM)-5 criteria. Evaluations performed by psychiatrists and research assistants were blinded.

Results

 Seventeen participants had been diagnosed with major NCDLB. At a cut-off score of 2 or over, the Mayo Fluctuations Scale exhibited excellent performance to differentiate major NCDLB from other major neurocognitive disorders (NCDs), with a sensitivity of 94.1% and a specificity of 71.4%, and acceptable performance to differentiate mild NCDLB from other mild NCDs, with a sensitivity of 60% and a specificity of 93.1%.

Conclusion

The Mayo Fluctuations Scale-Thai version is an excellent screening tool for major NCDLB and an acceptable tool that may be used with other additional tests for mild NCDLB. The tool is practical for use in memory and psychiatric clinics. Further validation studies in participants with other specific clinical conditions are required.
Tests for paired count outcomes
Authors: Proudfoot James A , Lin Tuo , Wang Bokai , Tu Xin M
Published: October 2018

For moderate to large sample sizes, all tests yielded pvalues close to the nominal, except when models were misspecified. The signed-rank test generally had the lowest power. Within the current context of count outcomes, the signed-rank test shows subpar power when compared with tests that are contrasted based on full data, such as the GEE. Parametric models for count outcomes such as the GLMM with a Poisson for marginal count outcomes are quite sensitive to departures from assumed parametric models. There is some small bias for all the asymptotic tests, that is,the signed-ranktest, GLMM and GEE, especially for small sample sizes. Resampling methods such as permutation can help alleviate this.
Impact of body mass index on the outcome of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Glover Benedict M , Hong Kathryn L , Dagres Nikolaos , Arbelo Elena , Laroche Cécile , Riahi Sam , Bertini Matteo , Mikhaylov Evgeny N , Galvin Joseph , Kiliszek Marek , Pokushalov Evgeny , Kautzner Josef , Calvo Naiara , Blomström-Lundqvist Carina , Brugada Josep
Published: October 2018

Objectives

The association between obesity and atrial fibrillation (AF) is well-established. We aimed to evaluate the impact of index body mass index (BMI) on AF recurrence at 12 months following catheter ablation using propensity-weighted analysis. In addition, periprocedural complications and fluoroscopy details were examined to assess overall safety in relationship to increasing BMI ranges.

Methods

Baseline, periprocedural and follow-up data were collected on consecutive patients scheduled for AF ablation. There were no specific exclusion criteria. Patients were categorised according to baseline BMI in order to assess the outcomes for each category.

Results

Among 3333 patients, 728 (21.8%) were classified as normal (BMI <25.0 kg/m2), 1537 (46.1%) as overweight (BMI 25.5–29.0 kg/m2) and 1068 (32.0%) as obese (BMI ≥30.0 kg/m2). Procedural duration and radiation dose were higher for overweight and obese patients compared with those with a normal BMI (p=0.002 and p<0.001, respectively). An index BMI ≥30 kg/m2led to a 1.2-fold increased likelihood of experiencing recurrent AF at 12-months follow-up as compared with overweight patients (HR 1.223; 95% CI 1.047 to 1.429; p=0.011), while no significant correlation was found between overweight and normal BMI groups (HR 0.954; 95% CI 0.798 to 1.140; p=0.605) and obese versus normal BMI (HR 1.16; 95% CI 0.965 to 1.412; p=0.112).

Conclusions

Patients with a baseline BMI ≥30 kg/m2have a higher recurrence rate of AF following catheter ablation and therefore lifestyle modification to target obesity preprocedure should be considered in these patients.
Decreased number of locules and pericarp cell layers underlie smaller and ovoid fruit in tomatosmaller fruit(sf) mutant
Authors: Zhang Yan , Li Yushun , Zhang Jie , Muhammad Tayeb , Liang Yan
Published: October 2018

Fruit size and shape are the primary criteria for domestication and improvement of tomato. The varying sizes and shapes of tomato fruit further signify their importance as agronomic traits. Here, we characterized a tomato mutant, smaller fruit (sf), which bears relatively small and ovoid fruits compared with the large and flat fruits of the wild-type (WT). Phenotypic measurements and histological analyses revealed that fruit diameter but not fruit length of the sf mutant decreased compared with that of the WT. This phenotypic change was attributed to significant decreases in locule number and pericarp cell layers in a transverse direction, which resulted in the transition of fruit shape from flat in the WT to ovoid in sf. Comparison of the transcriptomes of ovaries of sf with the WT using RNA-Seq identified 2596 differentially expressed genes, in which 1737 genes significantly were up-regulated and 859 genes were dramatically down-regulated in the sf ovary. Further analyses confirmed that some genes, such as CRCa, CNRs, CYCs, WUS, SUNs, OFRs, CDKs, participate in regulation of fruit size and shape of sf mutant. Thus, our study adds a new genetic resource regarding fruit size and shape of tomato, and provides a valuable basis for understanding molecular regulation of small and ovoid fruit of the sf mutant.
Geochemistry of carbonate formations of the Chhattisgarh Supergroup, central India: implications for Mesoproterozoic global events
Authors: George Bivin G. , Ray Jyotiranjan S. , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: October 2018

The Chhattisgarh Supergroup is one of the major Proterozoic marine sedimentary sequences of India. It consists of largely undeformed and unmetamorphosed siliciclastic, volcaniclastic, and carbonate formations deposited in two sub-basins, Hirri and Bharadwar, separated by an Archean greenstone belt. In spite of its apparent importance for Mesoproterozoic oceanic records, very few geochemical studies have been carried in the basin. Here, we present results of our high resolution geochemical and C–O–Sr isotopic studies in two carbonate formations of the supergroup: the Charmuria and the Chandi. We observe elevated δ13C values increasing from 2.6‰ to 3.6‰ in these formations, which is consistent with the globally reported late Mesoproterozoic values. Such consistently positive δ13C values are attributed to increased organic carbon burial in the basin margins during the deposition of these carbonates. Based on the principles of δ13C isotope stratigraphy, we suggest a depositional age between 1.0 and 1.2 Ga for these carbonates which form the upper part of the supergroup. The lowest 87Sr/86Sr ratios obtained from the Charmuria and Chandi formations, 0.70723 and 0.70816, respectively, are more radiogenic than the contemporaneous seawater, suggesting that the Sr isotopic system of the formations are altered. Based on the similarity in the δ13C values, we stratigraphically correlate the carbonate formations of the Raipur Group in both the Hirri and Bharadwar sub-basins. We also present a compilation of available δ13C and 87Sr/86Sr records from all the Proterozoic sedimentary successions of India and compare it with the global datasets. We find that while the Indian basins possess records of the Bitter Springs and Shuram δ13C anomalies, they lack evidence for the other major global events of the Proterozoic.
Biological effect and molecular docking of anticancer palladium and platinum complexes with morpholine dithiocarbamate on human serum albumin as a blood carrier protein
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Ali , Eslami Moghadam Mahboube , Saeidifar Maryam , Saboury Ali Akbar
Published: October 2018

The aim of this study was to examine the interaction of [Pd(2,2′-bipyridine) (morpholinedithiocarbamate)]NO3and [Pt (2,2′-bipyridine)(morpholinedithiocarbamate)]NO3with human serum albumin under physiological conditions by using fluorescence, absorption, and circular dichroism spectroscopic techniques. Spectroscopic analysis of the emission quenching at different temperatures demonstrated that the quenching mechanism was static quenching. From the circular dichroism results, thermal stability study, it was found that the interaction of the complexes with human serum albumin caused a conformational change of the protein reversibly. These 2 anticancer Pd and Pt complexes were activated against chronic myelogenous leukemia cell line K562, so that 50% cytotoxic concentration values of 16 and 26 μM for Pd and Pt complexes, respectively, were observed, which were much lower than that of cisplatin (154 μM). Biological activities of both Pd and Pt complexes were also assayed against selective microorganisms by the disc diffusion method. These results showed that the Pd(II) complex is antifungal agent but Pt(II) complex has antibacterial activity. Also, the interaction of both metal derivative complexes was studied by molecular docking. Complementary molecular docking results may be useful to determine the binding mechanism of human serum albumin in pharmaceutical and biophysical studies providing new insight in the novel pharmacology.