bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A methodology for the determination of indoor environmental quality in residential buildings through the monitoring of fundamental environmental parameters: A proposed Dwelling Environmental Quality Index
Authors: Laskari Marina , Karatasou Stavroula , Santamouris Mat
Published: July 2016

This paper presents the methodology for the calculation of an indoor environmental quality indicator for residential buildings. The ‘Dwelling Environmental Quality Index’ has been developed with the purpose of assisting both households and property managers to identify potential problems with the indoor environment whilst ensuring that indoor environmental quality is not compromised in favour of energy saving. Based on the combined effect of three simple and commonly measured indoor environmental parameters – air temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentrations; the index reflects in a single value the quality of indoor environmental conditions for the monitored period, in compliance with the European standard EN15251:2007. The application of the Dwelling Environmental Quality Index in single dwellings and in building blocks is demonstrated. The usability of the index as a communication and management tool for individual households and property managers is also demonstrated.
Cancer patients’ attitudes and experiences of online access to their electronic medical records: A qualitative study
Authors: Rexhepi Hanife , Åhlfeldt Rose-Mharie , Cajander Åsa , Huvila Isto
Published: July 2016

Patients’ access to their online medical records serves as one of the cornerstones in the efforts to increase patient engagement and improve healthcare outcomes. The aim of this article is to provide in-depth understanding of cancer patients’ attitudes and experiences of online medical records, as well as an increased understanding of the complexities of developing and launching e-Health services. The study result confirms that online access can help patients prepare for doctor visits and to understand their medical issues. In contrast to the fears of many physicians, the study shows that online access to medical records did not generate substantial anxiety, concerns or increased phone calls to the hospital.
High-performance fire-resistant polymeric nanocomposite for aerospace applications
Authors: George Philip , Bhowmik Shantanu , Abraham Mathew , Sriram PK , Pitchan Mohan kumar , Ajeesh G
Published: July 2016

This investigation essentially highlights development of novel high-performance fire-resistant polymeric nanocomposite with respect to its orientation towards future generation aviation. Therefore, an attempt has been made to increase thermal stability and fire resistivity of phenolic/cotton fabric reinforced polymer composite, which is desirable for aircraft interiors. There is considerable increase in adhesion characteristics of phenolic fabric reinforced polymer composite due to atmospheric pressure plasma treatment. The phenolic fabric reinforced polymer is subsequently coated with nanosized calcium silicate reinforced polybenzimidazole composite in order to increase thermal stability and fire resistance property. Thermogravimetric analysis reveals that polybenzimidazole-coated fabric reinforced polymer shows significantly better thermal stability than the uncoated phenolic fabric reinforced polymer. There is a significant increase in the limiting oxygen index characteristics of polybenzimidazole-coated fabric reinforced polymer when compared to the uncoated phenolic composite resulting in considerable improvement in fire resistivity of the polymers.
Illuminance required to detect a pavement obstacle of critical size
Authors: Fotios S , Uttley J
Published: July 2016

This paper investigates the illuminance needed to detect trip hazards for pedestrians walking after dark. In previous work, it was assumed that the critical obstacle height is 25 mm: further review of accident data and foot clearance data suggests instead that 10 mm is the critical height. Eye tracking records suggest a tendency for obstacles to be detected approximately 3.4 m ahead. Interpretation of obstacle detection data suggests horizontal photopic illuminances of up to 0.9 lux are required for peripheral detection of a 10 mm obstacle 3.4 m ahead, according to the scotopic/photopic ratio of the lighting and the age of the observer.
Clinical ethics committees – also for mental health care? The Norwegian experience
Authors: Syse Irene , Førde Reidun , Pedersen Reidar
Published: July 2016

Background

The aim was to explore how the clinical ethics committees in Norway have worked and functioned within mental health care and addiction treatment services.

Methods

Analysis of 256 annual reports from clinical ethics committees from 2003 to 2012 and a survey to clinicians who had used a clinical ethics committee.

Results

Dilemmas related to coercion, confidentiality, information, and patient autonomy dominated. The committees established only for psychiatric hospitals, had received more cases from mental health and addiction services than the committees also serving somatic services. Many of the case discussions involved both somatic and mental health care, complicated legal issues as well as ethical dilemmas. Mental health care professionals that have used the clinical ethics committees evaluated the clinical ethics committees deliberation as useful.

Conclusion

Given the many difficult ethical dilemmas in mental health care ethics work need to be strengthened. The complexity of the cases requires varied and interdisciplinary competence and training among the clinical ethics committee members.
The Conservatives and the Union: The ‘New English Toryism’ and the Origins of Anglo-Britishness
Authors: Gamble Andrew
Published: July 2016

The Union has for over a century been one of the cornerstones of Conservative politics, but with the changes to the old union state in the last 20 years, its value has been increasingly questioned. While the Conservative Party remains committed to maintaining the Union, a new English Toryism is emerging, which has a strong continuity with an older English Toryism which was partially buried by the ascendancy of Unionism. English Tories have always considered the Union to be desirable, but it comes second in their thinking to the need to protect the sovereignty of the British state, the core of which is England and its traditional institutions. What is new about the contemporary Conservative Party is that there is within it the revival of an English Toryism which is happy to discard the older clothes of Empire and Union once so important to Conservative identity and which is unabashedly English in its focus. For an increasing number of contemporary Conservatives, there no longer seems to be any passion about defending the Union or even of continuing to think about the United Kingdom in Unionist terms.
Multiple Neuromas Cause Painful “Jumping Stump” in a Transfemoral Amputee
Authors: Buntragulpoontawee Montana , Pattamapaspong Nuttaya , Tongprasert Siam
Published: July 2016

Painful “jumping stump” is an uncommon but very disturbing complication postamputation. This condition is one of the movement disorder entities resulting from peripheral nerve pathology, often known as “peripherally induced movement disorders.” Previously case reports have been written about painful and nonpainful incidence of “jumping stump”; however, only the earliest “jumping stump” article in 1852 suspected that neuromas might influence the involuntary movement. In this study, we describe a 38-year-old man with bilateral transfemoral amputee who suffered from painful “jumping stump” with multiple neuromas confirmed by imaging. He was treated successfully by ultrasound-guided phenol injection into the sciatic neuroma stalks. The pathophysiology of jumping stump and its possible association with neuroma are briefly discussed.
Anemia in Patients With Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Authors: Chuan Fengning , Zhang Min , Yao Yang , Tian Wenqing , He Xiaoqun , Zhou Bo
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) patients with anemia and assess the relationship between anemia and DFU outcome. A retrospective cohort study was conducted on patients with DFU who attended our hospital from May 2007 to September 2014. All of the variables in the DFU patients with and without anemia were compared. In this study, 353 subjects were included, anemia was present in 236 patients (66.9%). These patients were significantly male, more likely to be a smoker, had a lower level of serum albumin and worse kidney function, more likely to use at least 2 types of antibiotics and had a worse perfusion of the lower limb, a larger and deeper ulcer and a more severe infection. A multivariate analysis showed that male sex, lower serum albumin, and worse kidney function were independent predictors of anemia in DFU patients. Additionally, in multivariate models, anemia was one of the variables that was most significantly associated with adverse outcomes and with similar findings for secondary outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic analysis determined a hemoglobin cutoff of 12.3 g/dL (females) and 12.1 g/dL (males) to identify a high-risk population of DFU patients who would have adverse outcomes. So anemia is common in patients with DFU. Although typically mild or moderate, anemia has been associated with substantial morbidity and mortality in patients with DFU.
New agents modulating the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system—Will there be a new therapeutic option?
Authors: Gromotowicz-Poplawska Anna , Szoka Piotr , Kolodziejczyk Patrycjusz , Kramkowski Karol , Wojewodzka-Zelezniakowicz Marzena , Chabielska Ewa
Published: July 2016

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is more complex than it was originally regarded. According to the current subject knowledge, there are two main axes of the RAAS: (1) angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)-angiotensin II-AT1receptor axis and (2) ACE2-angiotensin-(1-7)-Mas receptor axis. The activation of the first axis leads to deleterious effects, including vasoconstriction, endothelial dysfunction, thrombosis, inflammation, and fibrosis; therefore, blocking the components of this axis is a highly rational and commonly used therapeutic procedure. The ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas receptor axis has a different role, since it often opposes the effects induced by the classical ACE-Ang II-AT1axis. Once the positive effects of the ACE2-Ang-(1-7)-Mas axis were discovered, the alternative ways of pharmacotherapy activating this axis of RAAS appeared. This article briefly describes new molecules affecting the RAAS, namely: recombinant human ACE2, ACE2 activators, angiotensin-(1-7) peptide and non-peptide analogs, aldosterone synthase inhibitors, and the third and fourth generation of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists. The results of the experimental and clinical studies are encouraging, which leads us to believe that these new molecules can support the treatment of cardiovascular diseases as well as cardiometabolic disorders.
Non-factorial analyses of two-by-two factorial trial designs
Authors: Korn Edward L , Freidlin Boris
Published: July 2016

Background/aims

Factorial analyses of 2 × 2 trial designs are known to be problematic unless one can be sure that there is no interaction between the treatments ( A and B). Instead, we consider non-factorial analyses of a factorial trial design that addresses clinically relevant questions of interest without any assumptions on the interaction. Primary questions of interest are as follows: (1) is A better than the control treatment C, (2) is B better than C, (3) is the combination of A and B ( AB) better than C, and (4) is AB better than A, B, and C.

Methods

A simple three-step procedure that tests the first three primary questions of interest using a Bonferroni adjustment at the first step is proposed. A Hochberg procedure on the four primary questions is also considered. The two procedures are evaluated and compared in limited simulations. Published results from three completed trials with factorial designs are re-evaluated using the two procedures.

Results

Both suggested procedures (that answer multiple questions) require a 50%–60% increase in per arm sample size over a two-arm design asking a single question. The simulations suggest a slight advantage to the three-step procedure in terms of power (for the primary and secondary questions). The proposed procedures would have formally addressed the questions arising in the highlighted published trials arguably more simply than the pre-specified factorial analyses used.

Conclusion

Factorial trial designs are an efficient way to evaluate two treatments, alone and in combination. In situations where a statistical interaction between the treatment effects cannot be assumed to be 0, simple non-factorial analyses are possible that directly assess the questions of interest without the zero interaction assumption.
‘Humanitarian intervention’, a predictable narrative? A comparative analysis of media narratives from Serbia to Syria
Authors: Vukasovich Christian , Dejanovic-Vukasovich Tamara
Published: July 2016

This article examines the narratives produced in Associated Press, The New York Times and The Times (of London) reports surrounding key events in Kosovo and Syria, leading to calls for North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) intervention, and the construction of perceptions and cultural memories of the conflicts in which they are wielded. The article argues that the narrative themes emerging from this coverage produced uncritical calls for military intervention that are limited and ubiquitous, narrowly delineated the options for response and understanding, relied heavily on press briefings of those that advocate military intervention (ignoring alternative voices), failed to provide deep-level analysis of the conflicts, and remained constant across all three media outlets and across both the Račak and Ghouta events. The article then examines the implications, arguing that the coverage can be understood as the deployment of weaponized media on a battlefield of public opinion and wielded in a way necessitating Western military action.
Do the police really protect and serve the public? Police deviance and public cynicism towards the law in Nigeria
Authors: Akinlabi Oluwagbenga Michael
Published: July 2016

This study empirically examines the everyday problem of corrupt policing and other related abuses in Nigeria, and how these deviant behaviours engender public cynicism towards the law. In any democratic society, police officers are expected to be accountable for their actions and inactions. But the perennial problem in Nigeria is that the police are not accountable to anyone. The history of Nigeria policing is littered with accounts of deviance, malevolent attitudes towards the public and failures of the police organization in detecting or disciplining errant officers. Using a sample of 462 participants from a cross-sectional survey, this study examines whether actual or vicarious experiences of police deviance are likely to predict public cynicism towards the law. This current study corroborates previous assertions that the relationship between the police and the public in Nigeria is poor and that police deviance engenders cynicism towards the law. Implications for policymaking and law-abiding behaviour are discussed.
Small-molecule inhibitor sorafenib regulates immunoreactions by inducing survival and differentiation of bone marrow cells
Authors: Zhao Xiangxuan , Cao Mengde , Lu Zaiming , Wang Ton , Ren Ying , Liu Chen , Nelson David
Published: July 2016

Sorafenib has been used for the treatment of liver cancer. However, its clinical impact on human immunity system remains poorly known. Our previous study has shown that sorafenib modulates immunosuppressive cell populations in murine liver cancer models. Here, we continue to report that low doses of sorafenib promotes the survival of murine bone marrow cells (BMCs) in a dose-dependent manner by up-regulating the anti-apoptotic protein survivin. Sorafenib induces differentiation of BMCs into suppressive dendritic cells that inhibit autologous T-cell proliferation and stimulate CD4+ T cells to express increased IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α, and reduced levels of IL-6 and CD25, which indicates that sorafenib-induced dendritic cells represent a distinct cellular subset with unique properties. Taken together, our findings suggest that in addition to its anticancer effects, sorafenib has an immunoregulatory property that is apparent at low doses.
Nigerian (Yoruba) version of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH-Y): Cross-cultural adaptation and initial validation
Authors: Odole Adesola C , Odunaiya Nse A , Mbaike Chidinma F , Ibikunle Peter O , Akinseloyin Adefemi A , Olaseinde Oluseyi R
Published: July 2016

Introduction

The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire is a widely used upper extremity outcome measure. However, it is yet to be translated into any of the major languages in Nigeria, thus limiting its utility in the Nigerian clinical setting. The aim of this study was to cross-culturally adapt the DASH questionnaire into Yoruba, a major Nigerian language and investigate its initial validation.

Methods

The English version of DASH was adapted into Yoruba through forward–back translations, experts’ committee meetings, pretesting and cognitive debriefing interview in accordance with the guidelines recommended by the developers of DASH. Fifty-two purposively selected patients with upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders participated in a cross-sectional survey. Factor analysis was performed to ensure structural validity of Yoruba version, and construct validity was investigated with Spearman rank correlation coefficient.

Results

The Yoruba version of DASH has semantic, idiomatic, linguistic and conceptual equivalence with the English DASH. Thirty linear components were identified within the data set. Principal factor analysis of the Yoruba DASH revealed a seven factor scale, having fulfilled all the necessary conditions. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure of sampling adequacy was 0.61, and Barlett’s test of Sphericity was adequate and significant (χ2 (1066) = 435, p = 0.001). Significant correlation (r = 0.994, p = 0.001) exists between scores obtained on English and Yoruba versions of DASH.

Conclusion

A cross-culturally adapted, valid Yoruba version of DASH is available for use in in south western Nigeria and other similar populations.
Mirabegron in overactive bladder patients: efficacy review and update on drug safety
Authors: Warren Katherine , Burden Helena , Abrams Paul
Published: July 2016

Overactive bladder is a common condition, which significantly affects people’s quality of life. The use of anticholinergic medication has been the mainstay of managing overactive bladder when conservative measures are not enough. Many patients stop anticholinergic medication because of the side effects and more recently the concerns about the effect of an anticholinergic burden and the development of dementia have been studied. Activation of β3 adrenoceptors has been shown to relax the detrusor muscle and subsequently lead to the development of the first β3 adrenoceptor agonist. Mirabegron is the first drug in this class to be approved for the use in overactive bladder. It has been extensively studied in phase II and III trials and has significant improvement in key overactive bladder parameters when compared with placebo. The incidence of side effects such as constipation, hypertension and tachycardia were comparable to anticholinergic medication but there was significantly less dry mouth incidence in the mirabegron groups. Mirabegron has been shown to be used safely in combination with solifenacin and tamsulosin. Head-to-head studies comparing efficacy and safety of mirabegron with anticholinergic medication would further help in the management strategy for overactive bladder.
Magnitude and variability of effect sizes for the associations between chronic pain and cognitive test performances: a meta-analysis
Authors: Rathbone Michél , Parkinson William , Rehman Yasir , Jiang Shucui , Bhandari Mohit , Kumbhare Dinesh
Published: July 2016

Objectives and Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to estimate the size and variability of the association between chronic pain (CP) and poorer cognitive test performances as a function of individual tests, pain sub-types, and study sources on 22 studies having (1) a control group, (2) reported means and standard deviations (SDs) and (3) tests studied at least 3 times.

Results:

CP patients performed significantly poorer with small to moderate effects (d = −.31 to −.57) on Digit Span Backward; STROOP Word; Color and Color-Word; Digit Symbol; Trail Making A and B; Rey Auditory Learning Immediate and Delayed Recall and Recognition. For these 10 measures, single effects (no interaction) were supported (I2 = 0%–8%) and Random and Fixed models yielded similar results. No group differences were found for Corsi Blocks Forward or Wisconsin Cart Sorting Test Categories Achieved, or Perseveration. Effects for the Rey Complex Figure Immediate and Delayed Recall were significant, but effect size was inconclusive, given moderate to high heterogeneity and lack of consistency between Random and Fixed models. For the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test, there was a homogeneous (I2 = 0%) and significantly lower performance in fibromyalgia (d = −.47), but no effect in diagnostically undifferentiated pain samples, and wide variability across studies of whiplash (d = −.15 to −1.04, I2 = 60%).

Conclusion:

The magnitude and consistency of the CP – cognition effect depended on the test, pain subgroup and study source.

Summary points

Among tests showing a chronic pain (CP) – cognition effect, the magnitude of this association was consistently small to moderate across tests. Effect size estimation was inconclusive for Digit Span Forwards, the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test and the Rey Complex Figure Test. Variance was too heterogeneous for testing cognitive domain specificity of the CP – cognition effect.
How Learning Styles Predict Charitableness via Emotional Management
Authors: Athota Vidya S. , Treloar Stephen , Kearney Sean
Published: July 2016

The existing research on charitableness focuses on the consequences of the charitable behavior, rather than its determinants. In this paper, we focus on Jackson’s Learning Profiles, and suggest that when assessed through learning profiles, emotional management accounts for the values of benevolence and universalism, which are values commonly associated with charitableness. A cohort of university students participated in a study that examined related hypotheses suggesting that learning profiles in personality can predict the charitable values of benevolence and universalism both directly and indirectly via emotional management. In the present study, general support of the hypotheses was established based on Jackson’s learning styles profiler. Hence, emotionally intelligent achievers directly predicted the charitable values of benevolence and universalism, and managing one’s own and understanding others’ emotions mediated the association between Learning Profiles and charitable values.
IL-10+ regulatory B cells are enriched in cord blood and may protect against cGVHD after cord blood transplantation
Authors: Sarvaria Anushruti , Basar Rafet , Mehta Rohtesh S. , Shaim Hila , Muftuoglu Muharrem , Khoder Ahmad , Sekine Takuye , Gokdemir Elif , Kondo Kayo , Marin David , Daher May , Alousi Amin M. , Alsuliman Abdullah , Liu Enli , Oran Betul , Olson Amanda , Jones Roy B. , Popat Uday , Hosing Chitra , Champlin Richard , Shpall Elizabeth J. , Rezvani Katayoun
Published: July 2016

Key Points

Cord blood is a rich source of B cells with immunoregulatory function. IL-10–producing B cells may protect against cGVHD after cord blood transplantation.
Carfilzomib significantly improves the progression-free survival of high-risk patients in multiple myeloma
Authors: Avet-Loiseau Hervé , Fonseca Rafael , Siegel David , Dimopoulos Meletios A. , Špička Ivan , Masszi Tamás , Hájek Roman , Rosiñol Laura , Goranova-Marinova Vesselina , Mihaylov Georgi , Maisnar Vladimír , Mateos Maria-Victoria , Wang Michael , Niesvizky Ruben , Oriol Albert , Jakubowiak Andrzej , Minarik Jiri , Palumbo Antonio , Bensinger William , Kukreti Vishal , Ben-Yehuda Dina , Stewart A. Keith , Obreja Mihaela , Moreau Philippe
Published: July 2016

Key Points

KRd has a favorable benefit-risk profile compared with Rd, regardless of baseline cytogenetic risk status, in patients with relapsed MM. KRd improves but does not abrogate the poor prognosis associated with high-risk cytogenetics in patients with relapsed MM.
The effect of age at school entry on college admission and earnings: a regression-discontinuity approach
Authors: Matta Rafael , Ribas Rafael P. , Sampaio Breno , Sampaio Gustavo R.
Published: July 2016

This paper provides evidence of the effect of age at school entry on college admission and earnings. It does so by exploiting a number of features in the application process to one of the major flagship universities in Brazil. By comparing applicants with different ages at school entry depending on whether they were born on December 31 or on January 1, our estimates show that applicants who delayed first-grade enrollment present higher aptitude test scores and probability of admission. Our results further suggest that advantaged applicants also earn more early in their careers.

JEL Classification: I21, J24
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutational Status and Brain Metastases in Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Bhatt Vijaya Raj , D’Souza Sanyo P. , Smith Lynette M. , Cushman-Vokoun Allison M. , Noronha Vanita , Verma Vivek , Joshi Amit , Chougule Anuradha , Jambhekar Nirmala , Kessinger Anne , Marr Alissa , Patil Vijay , Banavali Sripad D. , Ganti Apar Kishor , Prabhash Kumar
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR) mutations in non–small-cell lung cancers (NSCLC) may be more common in patients with brain metastases. Previous studies, however, did not adjust for effects of confounding variables.

Methods

This retrospective study included 1,522 consecutive patients with NSCLC, whose tumors were diagnosed and tested for EGFR mutations at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (Omaha, NE) and Tata Memorial Hospital (Mumbai, India). Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify any association between EGFR status and clinical factors.

Results

EGFR mutations were more common in females than males (38.7% v 24.8%), Asians than whites (31.3% v 13.4%), nonsmokers than smokers (40.2% v 14.6%), alcohol nonconsumers than users (32.4% v 15.8%), adenocarcinoma than other histology types (32.7% v 10.3%), and patients with brain metastases than extracranial or no metastases (39.4% v 29.8% v 15.1%; P < .001 for all comparisons). There was a higher likelihood of an EGFR mutation among patients with brain metastases (odds ratio, 1.8; P < .001). The median overall survival (OS) was 19.8 months. Patients with brain metastases had a shorter median OS (15 v 20.6 months; P = .02). However, in the cohort of EGFR mutation–positive patients, there was no difference in median OS between patients with and without brain metastases (20.8 v 25.1 months; P = .11).

Conclusion

There is a nearly two-fold higher incidence of EGFR mutations in NSCLC among patients with brain metastases at diagnosis. EGFR mutations did not predict for outcomes from brain metastases.
A Case-Control Study to Evaluate the Etiology of Esophageal Cancer in Tanzania
Authors: Mmbaga Elia , Deardorff Katrina , Mushi Beatrice , Zhang Li , Mgisha William , Parikh Aparna , Hiatt Robert A. , Mwaiselage Julius , Van Loon Katherine
Published: July 2016

Abstract 75

Objective:

East Africa has been previously reported as a geographic area with a disproportionately high incidence of squamous cell esophageal cancer (EC). In the setting of an apparent geographic cluster, we sought to identify specific etiologic factors contributing to the high incidence of EC in Tanzania (TZ).

Methods:

We performed a case-control study to examine possible associations between EC and selected environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors. Newly diagnosed EC cases were recruited at Muhimbili National Hospital and Ocean Road Cancer Institute during 2014-2015. Hospital controls were identified from patients with non-malignant conditions and matched 1:1 for gender and age ±10 years. The study team conducted in-person interviews. A matched case-control analysis used McNemar’s test with a Mantel-Haenszel estimate for odds ratios (OR).

Results:

375 cases and 375 controls were enrolled. 71% of cases and controls were male. Median age was 58 years (range 30-91) for cases and 55 years (range 31-88) for controls. Among cases with a confirmed pathologic diagnosis, squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histology (85%). Liquor consumption (OR 1.84, 95% CI: 1.05-3.22, p=0.04), burning firewood (OR 2.66, 95% CI: 1.88-3.76, p<0.001), use of kerosene (OR 3.29, 95% CI: 2.36-4.59, p<0.001), and use of surface water as a primary source of drinking water (OR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.41-3.76, p=0.001) were associated with increased risk of EC. Running water, gas, and electric utilities in the household were protective.

Conclusion:

Alcohol consumption, firewood and kerosene use as fuel, and surface water consumption merit further investigation as potential etiologic factors contributing to high EC incidence in TZ. Future research will include conducting multivariate analysis with these and other potential risk factors and a genome-wide analysis study using DNA extracted from saliva specimens obtained from cases and controls. Funding: Research support provided by the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health Contract No. HH5N261200800001E.

AUTHORS’ DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:

Elia Mmbaga No relationship to disclose Katrina Deardorff No relationship to disclose Beatrice Mushi No relationship to disclose Li Zhang No relationship to disclose William Mgisha No relationship to disclose Aparna Parikh Employment: Genentech Stock or Other Ownership: Genentech Travel, Accommodations, Expenses: Genentech Robert A. Hiatt No relationship to disclose Julius Mwaiselage No relationship to disclose Katherine Van Loon Consulting or Advisory Role: Bayer Company: OncoPlex Diagnostics
Improvement of Abandonment of Therapy in Pediatric Patients with Cancer in Guatemala
Authors: Alvarez Elysia , Seppa Midori , Messacar Kevin , Kurap John , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro , Rivas Silvia , Bustamante Marisol , Fuentes Lucia , Antillón-Klussmann Federico , Valverde Patricia , Castellanos Mauricio , Howard Scott C. , Efron Bradley , Luna-Fineman Sandra
Published: July 2016

Abstract 59

Background:

Abandonment of therapy is a major cause of therapeutic failure in the treatment of childhood cancer in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC). This study examines factors associated with increased risk of therapy abandonment in Guatemalan children with cancer and the rates of therapy abandonment before and after implementation of a multidisciplinary psychosocial intervention program.

Methods:

A retrospective population-based study was performed to identify risk factors for abandonment of therapy in Guatemalan children, ages 0-18, with cancer who were seen at UNOP from 2001-2008. Patient data was collected from the Pediatric Oncology Networked Database (POND4Kids). Abandonment was defined as a lapse of 4 weeks in planned treatment or failure to begin treatment for a potentially curable cancer. Cox proportional hazards analysis identified the effect of age, sex, year of diagnosis, distance travelled to UNOP, ethnicity, and principal diagnosis on abandonment of therapy. Kaplan Meier analysis was used to evaluate survival.

Results:

A retrospective analysis of 1,789 charts was performed and 367 patients abandoned therapy. The rate of abandonment decreased from 27% in 2001 to 7% in 2008 following a multidisciplinary psychosocial intervention program. Greater distance to UNOP (p = 0.00), younger age (p = 0.02) and earlier year of diagnosis (p = 0.00) were associated with increased risk of abandonment. Abandonment of therapy correlated with decreased survival. The cumulative survival at 8.3 years was 0.57 ± 0.02 (survival±SE) for those who completed therapy vs 0.06 ± 0.02 for those who abandoned and refused therapy (p=0.000) in an abandonment sensitive analysis.

Conclusion:

This study identified distance, age, and year of diagnosis as risk factors for abandonment of therapy for pediatric cancer in Guatemala. This study highlights risk factors for abandonment of therapy and the role of targeted interventions in altering rates of abandonment that could be replicated in other LMIC countries.

AUTHORS' DISCLOSURES OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST:

No COIs from the authors.
Assessment of Adequacy of Pain Management and Analgesic Use in Patients With Advanced Cancer Using the Brief Pain Inventory and Pain Management Index Calculation
Authors: Singh Harminder , Banipal Raja Paramjeet Singh , Singh Baltej
Published: July 2016

Purpose

The objective of this cross-sectional, noninterventional, 6-month observational study was to assess the adequacy of pain management in patients with cancer admitted to the Oncology Department of Guru Gobind Singh Medical College in Faridkot, India.

Methods and Materials

A total of 348 patients with cancer were recruited for evaluation of the prevalence of inadequate cancer pain management using the Brief Pain Inventory Pain Management Index.

Results

The current study included 127 males (36.5%) and 221 females (63.5%). The most prevalent cancer type was genitourinary; 268 patients (77%) had inadequately managed pain. A significant correlation was observed between poorly managed pain and age groups, analgesic used, and body mass index.

Conclusion

Our observation of inadequate pain management among 77% of patients indicates that pain management was insufficient in three quarters of the patients in this study. Accumulating data regarding the inadequacy of cancer pain management is crucial to improve symptom management. Better management of pain not only alleviates pain symptoms but also increases the quality of life for patients with cancer.
A new error bound for linear complementarity problems for B-matrices
Authors: Li Chaoqian , Gan Mengting , Yang Shaorong
Published: July 2016

A new error bound for the linear complementarity problem is given when the involved matrix is a $B$-matrix. It is shown that this bound improves the corresponding result in [M. Garc\'{i}a-Esnaola and J.M. Pe\~{n}a. Error bounds for linear complementarity problems for $B$-matrices. {\em Appl. Math. Lett.}, 22:1071--1075, 2009.] in some cases, and that it is sharper than that in [C.Q. Li and Y.T. Li. Note on error bounds for linear complementarity problems for $B$-matrices. {\em Appl. Math. Lett.}, 57:108--113, 2016.].
Age components of queen retinue workers in honeybee colony (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Yi Yao , Li You , Zeng Zhijiang
Published: July 2016

It’s known that elaborate age is closely associated with polyethism in honeybee colonies, and the circle composed of queen retinue workers is a usual phenomenon in honeybee colonies. In this study, we showed that the age-bracket of retinue workers is 2-23d, but mainly  6-18d by marking newly hatched workers in two colonies.
Real-Time Quantification of Amino Acids in the Exhalome by Secondary Electrospray Ionization–Mass Spectrometry: A Proof-of-Principle Study
Authors: García-Gómez Diego , Gaisl Thomas , Bregy Lukas , Cremonesi Alessio , Sinues Pablo Martinez-Lozano , Kohler Malcolm , Zenobi Renato
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND

Amino acids are frequently determined in clinical chemistry. However, current analysis methods are time-consuming, invasive, and suffer from artifacts during sampling, sample handling, and sample preparation. We hypothesized in this proof-of-principle study that plasma concentrations of amino acids can be estimated by measuring their concentrations in exhaled breath. A novel breath analysis technique described here allows such measurements to be carried out in real-time and noninvasively, which should facilitate efficient diagnostics and give insights into human physiology.

METHODS

The amino acid profiles in 37 individuals were determined by ion-exchange HPLC in blood plasma and simultaneously in breath by secondary electrospray ionization coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. Participants were split into training and test sets to validate the analytical accuracy. Longitudinal profiles in 3 individuals were additionally obtained over a 12-h period.

RESULTS

Concentrations of 8 slightly volatile amino acids (A, V, I, G, P, K, F, Orn) could be determined in exhaled breath with a CV of <10%. Exhalome validation studies yielded high accuracies for each of these amino acids, on average only 3% less compared to plasma concentrations (95% CI ±13%). Higher variations were found only for amino acids with a low plasma concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates for the first time that amino acids can be quantified in the human breath and that their concentrations correlate with plasma concentrations. Although this noninvasive technique needs further investigation, exhalome analysis may provide significant benefits over traditional, offline analytical methods.
Performing freedom: The role of music-making in creating a community in asylum seeker detention centres
Authors: Weston Donna , Lenette Caroline
Published: July 2016

This article puts forward a reimagining of the concept of community in an immigration detention centre that emerged from the creation of cultural and performative spaces. It is argued that conceptualizing immigration detention centres as accidental communities can contribute to an understanding of the impact of participatory music-making activities in these spaces on the well-being of detainees. The research is based on the analysis of music facilitators’ narratives of their experience in an Australian detention centre in 2012. Accidental communities are defined as those in which people are connected not through common culture or region, but who have been brought together by circumstance, and whose shared experience therefore forms the basis of their relationships within the community. It is proposed that participation in music-making activities in an accidental community informs a cultural space on the basis of expression of that experience rather than cross-cultural sharing and that the resultant politics of inclusion have a positive impact on the well-being of the detainees.
Hospitality in multicultural choral singing
Authors: Balsnes Anne Haugland
Published: July 2016

According to Higgins, hospitality is the central characteristic of community music. This article discusses how hospitality is expressed in so-called ‘multicultural choirs’ – which exist in several Norwegian cities – and the impact, if any, such hospitable musical and social environments have on members with a refugee background. Based on a case study of KIA Multicultural Gospel Choir in Kristiansand, Norway, using collection techniques such as participant observation and qualitative research interviews, various aspects of this specific form of community music are discussed. The analysis is illuminated by theoretical perspectives drawn from the fields of community music, music therapy, social psychology and the social sciences. The results show that the choral practice contributes to community, empowerment and respect, integration and meaning in the refugees’ lives. The purpose of the article is to deepen insights into a practice model such as is found in these multicultural choirs. The results have implications for social welfare politics and for the community music and music education fields.
Reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent for diagnosing iron deficiency anemia in children
Authors: Rungngu Susanti Lisupindan Palimbong , Wahani Audrey , Mantik Max F.J.
Published: July 2016

Background The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) remains high in Indonesian children. When anemia is detected in a patient, the physician’s task is to identify the cause, address it, provide iron therapy, and prevent recurrence. However, prevention is best done by early detection. The reticulocyte hemoglobin equivalent (Ret-He) is a direct measurement of iron level in reticulocytes recently produced in the bone marrow. The Ret-He measurement may be an early indicator of iron deficiency, as it is sensitive at the initial stage of the condition.Objective To assess for a relationship between Ret-He and IDA as well as to evaluate the usefulness of Ret-He for diagnosing IDA in children.Methods This analytic, observational study with cross-sectional approach included 50 children aged 6-12 years and was performed from November 2013 to March 2014. The subjects were divided into IDA or non-IDA groups, based on ferritin levels. A correlation analysis using logistic regression was performed and the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and odds ratio (OR) were calculated. Results were considered to be statistically significant for P values <0.05.Results A low Ret-He level was significantly associated with IDA in children (P=0.005). The Ret-He cut-off point of 27.8 pg/L had sensitivity of 43.8%, specificity 85.3%, PPV 58.3%, and NPV 76.3%, with OR 4.5 (95%CI 1.1 to 17.7).Conclusion We find a significant positive relationship between Haemoglobin (Hb) and Ret-He in children, A low level of Ret-He is associated with greater risk of IDA in children. The Ret-He has a high specificity. As such, Ret-He may be useful as a screening tool for early detection of IDA in children.
Organizational Multichannel Differentiation: An Analysis of Its Impact on Channel Relationships and Company Sales Success
Authors: Fürst Andreas , Leimbach Martin , Prigge Jana-Kristin
Published: July 2016

This article examines whether and how a company's division of segment- and task-related responsibilities among multiple sales channels affects the relationships in the multichannel (MC) system and, ultimately, the company's sales success. Building on open systems theory, the authors develop an overarching framework of organizational MC differentiation that distinguishes between two generic approaches: segment differentiation and task differentiation. They predict that these two approaches affect key relationship and performance outcomes of an MC system, but do so differently and contingent on key characteristics of the company's customers. Drawing on a multi-informant survey in a business-to-business context as well as on objective performance data, the authors find that segment differentiation tends to mitigate horizontal conflict and inhibit cooperation, while task differentiation reduces primarily vertical conflict and promotes cooperation. Moreover, depending on customer characteristics, segment differentiation may damage channel relationships overall and, in turn, limit company sales success, whereas task differentiation unambiguously promotes channel relationships and thus drives company sales success. These findings offer novel insights into the relationship and performance impact of MC systems’ organizational structure and provide useful guidance on how managers should allocate segment- and task-related responsibilities among multiple sales channels.
The Clash of the Titans: On Retailer and Manufacturer Vulnerability in Conflict Delistings
Authors: Van der Maelen Sara , Breugelmans Els , Cleeren Kathleen
Published: July 2016

The days of dominant manufacturers dictating the game to obedient retailers are long gone. When parties believe they have equal bargaining power, negotiations end in deadlock more frequently and result in conflict delistings wherein the manufacturers’ brands get removed from the retailers’ assortments. This might cause major sales losses as consumers are forced to change stores or brands. The authors study both parties’ vulnerabilities by investigating their market share shifts during a highly publicized real-life conflict delisting executed by a major retailer against a major manufacturer, involving multiple brands and categories. Generally, both parties lost sales, yet the retailer was the most vulnerable party. Manufacturer-brand and retailer-assortment characteristics moderated both parties’ vulnerability: the manufacturer and retailer became respectively less and more vulnerable when a high-equity brand was delisted in a small assortment. Both parties lost more in necessity than in impulse categories. The authors additionally investigate long-term consequences that occurred after the conflict was settled: the retailer's market share recovered to the predelisting level, whereas the manufacturer's share underwent a long-term level rise.
Organizing for Marketing Excellence
Authors: Moorman Christine , Day George S.
Published: July 2016

Marketing organization is the interface of the firm with its markets and where the work of marketing gets done. This review of the past 25 years of scholarship on marketing organization examines the individual and integrative roles of four elements of marketing organization—capabilities, configuration (including structure, metrics, and incentives), culture, and the human capital of marketing leadership and talent. The authors indicate that these four elements are mobilized through seven marketing activities (7As) that occur during the marketing strategy process. These activities enable the firm to anticipate market changes, adapt the strategy to stay ahead of competition, align the organization to the strategy and market, activate effective implementation, ensure accountability for results, attract resources, and manage marketing assets. How well the firm manages these seven activities throughout the marketing strategy process determines the performance payoffs from marketing organization. Future research priorities outlined for the elements of marketing organization, their integration, and their impact on the 7As offer directions for the study of organizing for marketing excellence.
The Benefits of Emergency Reserves: Greater Preference and Persistence for Goals that Have Slack with a Cost
Authors: Sharif Marissa A. , Shu Suzanne B.
Published: July 2016

Marketers of programs that are designed to help consumers reach goals face dual challenges of making the program attractive enough to encourage consumer signup while still motivating consumers to reach desirable goals and thus stay satisfied with the program. The authors offer a possible solution to this challenge: the emergency reserve, or slack with a cost. They demonstrate how an explicitly defined emergency reserve not only is preferred over other options for goal-related programs but can also lead to increased persistence. Study 1 demonstrates that consumers prefer programs with emergency reserves to programs that do not have them, and Study 2 further clarifies that consumers' preference for an emergency reserve depends on the presence of a superordinate goal. Study 3 reveals that consumers prefer goals with emergency reserves because they perceive them to have both higher attainability and value than other goals. Study 4 demonstrates that reserves can lead to increased goal persistence in a realistic task that involves persistence over time. Finally, Studies 5 and 6 reveal that consumers persist more with reserve goals because they want to avoid using the “emergency” reserve.