bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel dual vector quaternions based adaptive extended two-step filter for pose and inertial parameters estimation of a free-floating tumbling space target
Authors: Hou Xianghao , Yuan Jianping
Published: July 2018

Estimating the parameters of an uncooperative space target is essential to the on-orbit service missions. A good parameter estimation can provide sufficient prior knowledge for the further operations. This paper proposes a novel dual vector quaternions based adaptive extended two-step filter (DVQ-AETSF) to estimate the pose and inertial parameters of a free-floating tumbling space target. Firstly, both of the rotational and translational motions are modeled by the dual vector quaternions (DVQ). Then, by using the DVQ-based system model, the DVQ-AETSF is designed. The proposed DVQ-AETSF mainly consists of a traditional Kalman filter prediction procedure in the first step and an adaptive regularized Newton iteration technique in the second step. The new proposed two-step filter aims to deal with the high nonlinearities in the measurements equations. By using the proposed DVQ-AETSF, both of the pose and initial parameters of a free floating tumbling space target under large errors of initial guesses and high measurement noise can be well estimated. Finally, the proposed DVQ-AETSF is validated by mathematical simulations to show its performance.
Hitting the Target: Mathematical Attainment in Children Is Related to Interceptive-Timing Ability
Authors: Giles Oscar T. , Shire Katy A. , Hill Liam J. B. , Mushtaq Faisal , Waterman Amanda , Holt Raymond J. , Culmer Peter R. , Williams Justin H. G. , Wilkie Richard M. , Mon-Williams Mark
Published: July 2018

Interceptive timing is a fundamental ability underpinning numerous actions (e.g., ball catching), but its development and relationship with other cognitive functions remain poorly understood. Piaget suggested that children need to learn the physical rules that govern their environment before they can represent abstract concepts such as number and time. Thus, learning how objects move in space and time may underpin the development of related abstract representations (i.e., mathematics). To test this hypothesis, we captured objective measures of interceptive timing in 309 primary school children (5–11 years old), alongside scores for general motor skill and national standardized academic attainment. Bayesian estimation showed that interceptive timing (but not general motor capability) uniquely predicted mathematical ability even after we controlled for age, reading, and writing attainment. This finding demonstrates that interceptive timing is distinct from other motor skills with specificity in predicting childhood mathematical ability independently of other forms of attainment and motor capability.
Residential heating system selection using the generalized Choquet integral method with the perspective of energy
Authors: Ozdemir Yavuz , Ozdemir Sahika
Published: July 2018

Using energy effectively is one of the most important issues and problems that countries should take up. As a parallel of increasing energy demands worldwide and still mostly using fossil fuels, energy saving issues have gained much importance in recent years for all areas of life. It is a fact that construction also plays an important role in the emergence of the energy and environmental problem that we see as the problem of our centenary. As buildings consume about 40% of the world's annual energy consumption globally, this study will focus on the evaluation of residential heating system alternatives using the generalized Choquet integral method with trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The main contribution of this paper is to determine the interdependency among main criteria and subcriteria, the nonlinear relationship among them and the environmental uncertainties while prioritizing residential heating system alternatives using the generalized Choquet integral method with the experts’ view. To the authors’ knowledge, this will be the first interdisciplinary study that uses the generalized Choquet integral method for residential heating systems.
Putting Theory into Practice: Ludwig von Wolzogen and the Russian Campaign in 1812
Authors: Kuhle Arthur
Published: July 2018

It was not the battle of Borodino but the Russian retreat that devastated Napoleon’s army in 1812. The time of the Napoleonic Wars was not solely the time of decisive battles but also of new theories that considered battle a mere ‘ultimatum’ of war dynamics. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the events of 1812 were planned by the Russian officer Ludwig von Wolzogen on the grounds of a theory developed by Dietrich von Bülow. Owing to its seemingly absurd concept of avoiding battles altogether, it was applied secretly and later fell into oblivion. This article reconsiders the history of an idea of war dynamics that brought peace to Europe for this time.
Determinants of Customers’ Brand Choice and Continuance Intentions with Mobile Data Service Provider: The Role of Past Experience
Authors: Ojiaku Obinna C. , Osarenkhoe Aihie
Published: July 2018

The prevalence of mobile data services has intensified competition and structured the market for mobile telecommunication services, resulting in decreased revenue particularly from voices services and high churn rate. Mobile service providers therefore seek ways to increase revenue by attracting and retaining mobile data users. This study investigates the determinants of customers’ brand choice and continuance intentions with mobile service providers in the context of mobile data service. This study also captures the impact of past experience on behavioural outcomes. Data were collected from 304 customers of mobile data service firms and analysed using regression analyses. Results indicate that mobile service quality, pricing structure and promotion, but not brand image, affect brand choice, whereas continuance intentions are affected by the mobile service quality, brand image and price. Customers’ past experience relates significantly and negatively to brand choice but not continuance intention. The contribution and implication of the study are discussed.
Outcomes of Closed Versus Open Technique of Rhinoplasty During Primary Repair of Unilateral Cleft Lip: A Systematic Review
Authors: Jayarajan Rajshree , Natarajan Anantharajan , Nagamuttu Ravindranathan
Published: July 2018

Objective:

Primary cleft rhinoplasty has almost become the norm in cleft practice. Although various closed and open rhinoplasty techniques are in use, there is no consensus as to which technique is superior in terms of outcome. The authors hypothesized that the long-term outcomes of open rhinoplasty during primary cleft lip repair in unilateral cleft is better than that of the closed method. This systematic review has been done to evaluate the hypothesis by a review and analysis of literature.

Methods:

Protocol was registered on the PROSPERO register of systematic reviews. PRISMA-P guidelines for the conduct of systematic review were followed. Literature search was done in various databases. The inclusion criteria were patients with nonsyndromic unilateral cleft lip undergoing rhinoplasty with primary cleft lip repair and preference given to studies comparing the 2 procedures.

Results:

Sixteen articles were selected based on inclusion criteria after screening 522 articles—1 randomized controlled trial, 2 retrospective cohorts, and 13 case series. Both closed and open techniques have achieved good symmetry of nostrils with no impairment of growth. No advantage of one technique over the other was noted.

Conclusions:

There is a paucity of randomized controlled trials and prospective studies on the subject to arrive at an evidence-based recommendation as to whether open or closed rhinoplasty during primary cleft lip repair gives better long-term outcomes. Due to insufficient evidence, the authors are not able to support or refute the hypothesis put forward in the review.
The First 20 Years of Organizational Research Methods: Trajectory, Impact, and Predictions for the Future
Authors: Aguinis Herman , Ramani Ravi S. , Villamor Isabel
Published: July 2018

We analyze the trajectory of Organizational Research Methods ( ORM) during the first 20 years of its existence (i.e., 1998-2017). First, beginning with the inaugural volume, we review the editorials to create a qualitative account regarding ORM’s journey as narrated by the journal’s leaders in their own voices. Second, we examine the composition of the five senior editorial teams (i.e., editors and associate editors), including their qualitative-quantitative, micro-macro, and disciplinary orientation, as well as the types of articles published by ORM along the qualitative-quantitative and micro-macro distinctions. Third, we describe the 27 feature topics (i.e., set of articles addressing a common issue) published by ORM. Fourth, we offer information regarding ORM’s impact and influence based on impact factor data, journal lists, and other indicators (e.g., ORM articles that have received awards from professional organizations, most cited ORM articles out of a total of 484). Fifth, we identify the most frequently published ORM authors (and their disciplinary background) out of a total of 884 who have published at least one article. Finally, we discuss implications and outline opportunities and challenges as well as possible future directions for ORM. Overall, our review and analysis of the first 20 years of ORM allowed us to create a historical record for future generations, gain qualitative and quantitative insights into ORM’s trajectory and its impact and influence over time, and make predictions for the future of the journal and, more broadly, research on methodological issues.
Mid-term outcome after arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement: development of a predictive score
Authors: Pierannunzii Luca , Di Benedetto Paolo , Carulli Christian , Fiorentino Gennaro , Munegato Daniele , Panascì Manlio , Potestio Domenico , Randelli Filippo , Della Rocca Federico , Rosolen Valentina , Giangreco Manuela , Santori Nicola
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To build a post-arthroscopy outcome-predictive score (POPS) associated with the likelihood of lasting benefit after arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and based solely on unambiguous preoperative information.

Methods:

A population of 220 FAI patients, operated on with standard techniques by orthopaedic surgeons trained in hip arthroscopy in 6 different centres, was evaluated physically or by telephone interview 2 to 5 years after surgery. The criteria of successful mid-term outcome (SMO) were agreed upon by all authors. A multivariate logistic regression, adjusted for patient’s age and centre, was applied to predict SMO. In the model, the variables associated with the outcome were included and the relative ORs (odds ratios) were used to compute the FAI-POPS (FAI - post-arthroscopy outcome-predictive score). A ROC (receiver operating characteristic) curve was plotted and the optimum cut-off was calculated.

Results:

155 patients out of 220 showed a successful mid-term outcome. The optimum cut-off of FAI-POPS was calculated to be 6.3 and with this threshold it proved a sensitivity of 0.66 and a specificity of 0.69, a positive predictive value of 0.84 and a negative predictive value of 0.46.

Conclusions:

The standard arthroscopic treatment of FAI resulted in satisfactory persistent symptom relief for about 70% of patients. No or minimal osteoarthritis, short time elapsed from the appearance of symptoms and high preoperative modified Harris Hip Score are independent predictive factors of SMO. The FAI-POPS is obtained as sum of 3 odds ratios corresponding to the above prognostic factors and is a useful predictor of mid-term outcome after conventional arthroscopic FAI treatment.
Homology Inference Based on a Reconciliation Approach for the Comparative Genomics of Protozoa
Authors: Campos Darueck A , Pereira Elisa C , Jardim Rodrigo , Cuadrat Rafael RC , Bernardes Juliana S , Dávila Alberto MR
Published: July 2018

Protozoa parasites are responsible for several diseases in tropical countries, such as malaria, sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, amebiasis, and giardiasis, which together threaten millions of people around the world. In addition, most of the classic parasitic diseases due to protozoa are zoonotic. Understanding the biology of these organisms plays a relevant role in combating these diseases. Using homology inference and comparative genomics, this study targeted 3 protozoan species from different Phyla: Cryptosporidium muris (Apicomplexa), Entamoeba invadens (Amoebozoa), and Trypanosoma grayi (Euglenozoa). In this study, we propose a new approach for the identification of homologs, based on the reconciliation of the results of 2 different homology inference software programs. Our results showed that 46.1% (59/128) of the groups inferred by our reconciliation approach could be validated using this methodology. These validated groups are here called homologous Supergroups and were compared with SUPERFAMILY and Pfam Clans.
Improved local quantile regression
Authors: Liu Xi , Yu Keming , Xu Qifa , Tang Xueqing
Published: July 2018

We investigate a new kernel-weighted likelihood smoothing quantile regression method. The likelihood is based on a normal scale-mixture representation of asymmetric Laplace distribution (ALD). This approach enjoys the same good design adaptation as the local quantile regression ( Spokoiny et al., 2013 , Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference, 143, 1109–1129), particularly for smoothing extreme quantile curves, and ensures non-crossing quantile curves for any given sample. The performance of the proposed method is evaluated via extensive Monte Carlo simulation studies and one real data analysis.
A Formal Method for Detecting and Describing Cultural Complexity
Authors: Lacy Michael G. , Snodgrass Jeffrey G. , Meyer Mary C. , Dengah H. J. Francois , Benedict Noah
Published: July 2018

The most widely used formal approach to culture, the cultural consensus theory (CCT) of Romney, Weller, and Batchelder, originally relied on a priori definitions of cultural groups to map their unity and diversity. Retaining key features of classical CCT, we provide techniques to identify two or more cultural subgroups in a sample, whether those groups are known in advance or not. Our method helps CCT practitioners connect to contemporary approaches to culture in anthropology and related disciplines, which emphasize complexity. We suggest that our method provides reasonable and easily implementable approximations of cultural unity and diversity within a sample. In pursuing these matters, we contribute to other ongoing efforts to bring CCT closer to contemporary theorizing on cultural multiplicity, thus rendering CCT potentially more useful to a wider range of practicing social scientists.
Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty in Atherosclerosis Patients With Popliteal Artery Involvement
Authors: Dohi Tomoharu , Schmidt Andrej , Scheinert Dierk , Bausback Yvonne , Kabata Daijiro , Shintani Ayumi , Sakata Yasushi , Steiner Sabine
Published: July 2018

Purpose: To investigate outcomes of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty in endovascular interventions including or restricted to the popliteal artery. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of 266 patients [median age 72 years, interquartile range (IQR) 62, 78; 166 men] treated with DCB angioplasty in 281 de novo lesions including the popliteal artery between December 2011 and January 2015 at a single center. The median lesion length was 270 mm (IQR 150, 373). The study outcomes were primary patency and predictors of restenosis [reported as the hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI)]. Results: The primary patency was 77.4% at a median 12.2 months (IQR 5.7, 18.8). Independent variables associated with restenosis included baseline Rutherford category (HR 1.36, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.77, p=0.02), reference vessel diameter (HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.95, p=0.02), dissection (HR 1.69, 95% CI 1.022.79, p=0.04), and standard nitinol stent use (HR 2.08, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.79, p=0.02). Conclusion: Outcomes after DCB angioplasty in lesions including the popliteal artery were acceptable compared with previous studies. Further investigation with long-term follow-up is needed to confirm these results.
Enhancing vehicle suspension system control performance based on the improved extension control
Authors: Wang Hongbo
Published: July 2018

Vehicle suspension system is the key part in vehicle chassis, which has influence on the vehicle ride comfort, handling stability, and security. The extension control, which is not constrained by common control method, could further improve the suspension system performance. The 7 degree-of-freedom suspension model is built. The extension controller is designed according to the function differences. In different extension set domains according to the correlation function, the corresponding control strategy is designed to ensure the suspension system obtains optimal performance in the classical domain and expands the controllable range outside the classical domain as large as possible. By adopting game theory, the domain is optimally divided, and the domain boundary control jump is smoothed by introducing Takagi–Sugeno–Kang fuzzy control into the extension control. Through the simulation and results comparison, it is demonstrated that the extension control could further improve the vehicle ride comfort than the optimal control and the extension control ability can be further promoted through domain game and Takagi–Sugeno–Kang fuzzy control. The analysis of the influence of the extension controller parameter varieties on suspension system performance shows that the error-weighted coefficient and control coefficient have significant effect to the suspension system performance.
Synchronous control system based on wireless data transmission for 50,000-t heavy-haul trains
Authors: Huang Shize , Zhang Fan , Guo Qiyi , Dong Decun
Published: July 2018

In order to meet the ever-increasing freight capacity demand, operation of heavy-haul freight trains with a 50,000 t capacity has been widely studied for a decade in China. A typical heavy-haul train with a large capacity employs multiple locomotives that are evenly distributed along the train, and each locomotive, or two or more locomotives, hauls a certain amount of freight cars. The synchronicity among locomotives is of great importance to safety. A 50,000-t train developed in China will be pulled by 10 locomotives, and the uneven distribution of traction or brake force, caused by the asynchronous command execution of different locomotives, could eventually lead to severe accidents such as decoupling. This article focuses on how to apply the existing wireless-based multi-locomotive synchronous control system to the trains with the capacity of 50,000 t. The modular functionality of the control system is introduced, and some methods aiming to enhance the reliability of wireless communication are discussed. Then four experiments conducted on real trains or in laboratory are described. Test results show that the wireless synchronous control system can meet the technical requirements of 50,000-t trains and its operation is feasible.
Effectiveness and feasibility of deprescribing of symptomatic medications in a Singapore rehabilitation hospital
Authors: Ee Charissa Ann Jia Ming , Lee Kheng Hock , Tan Hee Lim , Low Lian Leng
Published: July 2018

Introduction:

This study aims to determine the effectiveness, cost savings and feasibility of implementing a systematic process of deprescribing medications for symptomatic management, namely, acid suppressants, laxatives, analgesics and antiemetics for patients of a Singapore rehabilitation hospital.

Methods:

A total of 200 patients were randomized to a deprescribing intervention ( n = 100) or control (usual care) group ( n = 100). The patient-centred deprescribing process was utilized. Symptomatic medications were deprescribed following initial pharmacist assessment, discussion with doctors and consideration of patients’ preferences regarding discontinuation or dose reduction. Symptom recurrence, adverse drug withdrawal events (ADWEs) and the need for drug re-initiation or initiation of new symptomatic medications after deprescribing were monitored in the first, second and sixth weeks.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 72.8 years and 68.6 years in the intervention and control groups. There were no significant reductions in the monthly cost and total number of medications between both intervention and control groups. Systematic deprescribing of acid suppressants was the highest among the four target drug classes. Recurrence of pain and re-initiation of analgesics occurred in two out of seven cases of discontinuation. However, no ADWEs or constipation were noted in the intervention group. On average, a total of 19 minutes was required by pharmacists and doctors to complete the deprescribing process.

Conclusion:

The systematic deprescribing of symptomatic medications did not reduce costs nor the total number of medications. The risk of symptom recurrence and adverse events was negligible. Knowledge, attitudes and collaboration among healthcare professionals regarding deprescribing are critical.

Trial registration:

Clinicaltrials.gov, number NCT03354845.
Gastrointestinal microbiota contributes to the development of murine transfusion-related acute lung injury
Authors: Kapur Rick , Kim Michael , Rebetz Johan , Hallström Björn , Björkman Jonas T. , Takabe-French Alisa , Kim Noel , Liu Jonathan , Shanmugabhavananthan Shanjeevan , Milosevic Stefan , McVey Mark J. , Speck Edwin R. , Semple John W.
Published: July 2018

Key Points

Gastrointestinal flora contributes to development of antibody-mediated murine TRALI. Depletion of gastrointestinal flora prevents TRALI by inhibiting MIP-2 secretion and pulmonary neutrophil accumulation.
Sulfur isotope of pyrite response to redox chemistry in organic matter-enriched shales and implications for components of shale gas
Authors: Zhu Dongya , Liu Quanyou , Zhou Bing , Jin Zhijun , Li Tianyi
Published: July 2018

The Sichuan Basin has achieved breakthroughs in shale gas production from the Upper Ordovician Wufeng and Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation black shales. Large amounts of pyrite commonly occur in the organic matter (OM)-enriched black shales, but [Formula: see text] has not been detected in the shale gas. The genetic mechanism of pyrite, its implications for redox chemistry, and the main controlling factors for the absence of [Formula: see text] are unclear. The [Formula: see text] values of the pyrite are extremely high. In particular, the nodular pyrite has [Formula: see text] values as high as 38.6‰. The high sulfur isotopic values indicate that the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation shales were deposited in an anaerobic sulfide euxinic environment where the limited [Formula: see text] in the stagnant bottom water was completely reduced to pyrite by bacterial sulfate reduction (BSR). The heavy sulfur isotope composition of the pyrite is indicative of organic-rich intervals, which are also the high-yielding intervals for shale gas. Shale gas from the Wufeng-Longmaxi Formation is dominated by alkanes, with an average [Formula: see text] content of 97.91%. The shale gas contains a small amount of [Formula: see text], with an average of 0.34%. However, no [Formula: see text] was detected. The [Formula: see text] values have a range of 4.7‰–11.5‰, with an average of 7.8‰, which is significantly different from the [Formula: see text] related to thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) but similar to the [Formula: see text] from the decomposition of carbonate minerals. The black shales experienced high burial temperatures and were rich in OM, which met part of the necessary conditions for the occurrence of TSR. However, TSR did not occur. The reason for the lack of TSR process is that no sulfate mineral was available in the shales because the [Formula: see text] in the seawater was fully consumed by BSR. As a result, [Formula: see text] associated with TSR was not detectable in the shale gas.
Evaluation of reliable improvement rates in depression and anxiety at the end of treatment in adolescents
Authors: Edbrooke-Childs Julian , Wolpert Miranda , Zamperoni Victoria , Napoleone Elisa , Bear Holly
Published: July 2018

Background

Literature has focused on effect sizes rather than individual-level improvement rates to determine how effectively services address burgeoning numbers of adolescents with anxiety and depression.

Aims

To consider how many adolescents report reliable improvement in anxiety, depression and comorbid depression and anxiety by end of treatment.

Method

The primary outcome was reliable improvement (i.e. change greater than likely the result of measurement error) in self-reported anxiety and depression for N = 4464 adolescents (mean age 14.5 years, s.d. = 1.9; 75% female; 61% White) seen in specialist mental health services in England.

Results

In total, 53% of those with anxiety, 44% with depression, and 35% with comorbid depression and anxiety showed reliable improvement.

Conclusions

Improvement rates were higher than previously reported, but lower than generally used in advice to the public. There may be a need to set more realistic expectations, including with young people who seek help.

Declaration of interest

All authors were involved in the programme of service transformation that this report draws on. M.W. led the outcomes and evaluation group that agreed the approach to measurement used in the initiative.
Creating boundaries to empower digital health technology
Authors: Hsin Honor , Torous John
Published: July 2018

The potential of digital health tools such as smartphones and sensors to increase access to and enhance delivery of healthcare is well known. However, a lack of regulation and delineation between those technologies seeking to offer direct clinical diagnostics and treatments and those involving clinical care enhancements or direct-to-consumer resources has led to patient and clinician confusion about the appropriate use and role of digital health. Here, we propose that creating boundaries and better defining the scope of digital health technology will advance the field through matching the right use cases with the right tools. We further propose that ethical clinicians, as stewards of standard of care, are well suited to uphold these boundaries and to safeguard best practices in digital health.

Declaration of interest

H.H. is an employee of Verily Life Sciences and owns equity in this company. The views expressed here are those of the authors and are not official views of Verily Life Sciences.
Risk of Solid Cancer After Treatment of Testicular Germ Cell Cancer in the Platinum Era
Authors: Groot Harmke J. , Lubberts Sjoukje , de Wit Ronald , Witjes Johannes A. , Kerst Jan Martijn , de Jong Igle J. , Groenewegen Gerard , van den Eertwegh Alfons J.M. , Poortmans Philip M. , Klümpen Heinz-Josef , van den Berg Hetty A. , Smilde Tineke J. , Vanneste Ben G.L. , Aarts Maureen J. , Incrocci Luca , van den Bergh Alfons C.M. , Jóźwiak Katarzyna , van den Belt-Dusebout Alexandra W. , Horenblas Simon , Gietema Jourik A. , van Leeuwen Flora E. , Schaapveld Michael
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Testicular cancer (TC) treatment increases risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMNs). It is unknown whether changes in TC treatment over time have affected SMN risk.

Methods

Solid SMN risk was evaluated in a multicenter cohort comprising 5,848 1-year survivors treated for TC before age 50 years between 1976 and 2007. SMN incidence was compared with cancer incidence in the general population. Treatment-specific risks were assessed using multivariable regression in a case-cohort design.

Results

After a median follow-up of 14.1 years, 350 solid SMNs were observed, translating into a 1.8-fold (95% CI, 1.6-2.0) increased risk compared with general population rates. Solid SMN risk was increased in patients with seminoma and those with nonseminoma (standardized incidence ratio, 1.52 and 2.21, respectively). Patients with nonseminoma experienced increased risk of SMNs of the thyroid, lung, stomach, pancreas, colon, and bladder and of melanoma and soft tissue sarcoma, whereas those with seminoma experienced increased risk of SMNs of the small intestine, pancreas, and urinary bladder. The 25-year cumulative incidence of solid SMNs was 10.3% (95% CI, 9.0% to 11.6%). In multivariable analysis, platinum-based chemotherapy was associated with increased risk of a solid SMN (hazard ratio [HR], 2.40; 95% CI, 1.58 to 3.62), colorectal SMN (HR, 3.85; 95% CI, 1.67 to 8.92), and noncolorectal GI SMN (HR, 5.00; 95% CI, 2.28 to 10.95). Receipt of platinum 400 to 499 and ≥ 500 mg/m2 increased solid SMN risk compared with surgery only (HR, 2.43; 95% CI, 1.40 to 4.23 and HR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.50 to 3.90, respectively), whereas risk was not significantly increased with lower doses (HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 0.90 to 3.43). The HR of a GI SMN increased by 53% (95% CI, 26% to 80%) per 100 mg/m2 of platinum-containing chemotherapy. The HR of an infradiaphragmatic SMN increased by 8% per Gray of radiation dose administered (95% CI, 6% to 9%; P < .001).

Conclusion

Radiotherapy and platinum-containing chemotherapy are associated with increased solid SMN risk, specifically with GI SMNs.
Outcome of Patients With Early-Stage Infradiaphragmatic Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Comprehensive Analysis From the German Hodgkin Study Group
Authors: Sasse Stephanie , Goergen Helen , Plütschow Annette , Böll Boris , Eichenauer Dennis A. , Fuchs Michael , Behringer Karolin , Zijlstra Joseé M. , Greil Richard , Markova Jana , Topp Max S. , Meissner Julia , Neubauer Andreas , Baues Christian , Engert Andreas , Borchmann Peter , von Tresckow Bastian
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The prognostic effect of isolated infradiaphragmatic involvement in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is controversial, and there are little data about patients treated with current therapies. Therefore, we performed a risk factor analysis to focus on isolated nodal infradiaphragmatic disease in patients treated within the German Hodgkin Study Group trials HD13 (clinical trial information: ISRCTN63474366) and HD14 (clinical trial information: ISRCTN04761296) for early-stage HL.

Patients and Methods

Characteristics and outcomes of patients who had infradiaphragmatic HL were compared with patients who had supradiaphragmatic disease. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated according to Kaplan-Meier methods and were compared between groups using the log-rank test and Cox proportional hazards regression, which was also applied for multivariable analyses that adjusted for relevant baseline characteristics.

Results

Of 2,903 qualified patients, 223 (7.7%) were diagnosed with isolated nodal infradiaphragmatic disease. In general, these patients were older, had a poorer performance status, were more often male, and had the nodular sclerosis subtype less often than those with supradiaphragmatic disease. After a median follow-up time of 51 months, PFS and OS were significantly worse in patients with infradiaphragmatic disease (5-year PFS and OS, 80.1% and 91.5% v 91.2% and 97.6% in patients with supradiaphragmatic disease; each P < .001). In multivariable analyses, infradiaphragmatic HL remained a significant risk factor in terms of PFS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.5; 95% CI, 1.04 to 2.2; P = .03) and OS (HR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.2 to 3.5; P = .01). However, inferior PFS and OS could not be observed among those patients treated with the more intensive chemotherapy (two cycles of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine [ABVD] in HD13, and two cycles of escalated bleomycin, etoposide, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, procarbazine, and prednisone [BEACOPPescalated] plus two cycles of ABVD in HD14; all patients received 30 Gy of involved-field radiotherapy).

Conclusion

Early-stage HL that presents with infradiaphragmatic disease only represents a distinct patient group with an inferior outcome. However, this adverse outcome can be outweighed by appropriate combined modality treatment.
Long-Lasting Androgen-Induced Cardiometabolic Effects in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Torres Fernandez Edgar D , Adams Kristen V , Syed Maryam , Maranon Rodrigo O , Romero Damian G , Yanes Cardozo Licy L
Published: July 2018

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, is characterized by androgen excess and ovarian dysfunction and presents with increased cardiometabolic risk factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, and elevated blood pressure (BP). We previously reported that administration of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) to female rats elicits cardiometabolic derangements similar to those found in women with PCOS. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the DHT-mediated cardiometabolic derangements observed in PCOS are long lasting despite DHT withdrawal. Four-week-old female Sprague Dawley rats were treated with DHT (7.5 mg/90 days) or placebo for 6 months. DHT was discontinued (ex-DHT), and rats were followed for 6 additional months. After 6 months of DHT withdrawal, food intake, body weight, fat and lean mass, fasting plasma insulin, leptin, and adiponectin were elevated in ex-DHT rats. BP remained significantly elevated, and enalapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, normalized BP in ex-DHT rats. Expression of components of the intrarenal renin-angiotensin system was increased in ex-DHT rats. The cardiometabolic features found in ex-DHT rats were associated with lower plasma androgen levels but increased expression of renal and adipose tissue androgen receptors. In summary, androgen-induced cardiometabolic effects persisted after DHT withdrawal in a PCOS experimental model. Activation of intrarenal renin-angiotensin system plays a major role in the androgen-mediated increase in BP in ex-DHT. Upregulation of the renal and adipose tissue androgen receptor may explain the long-lasting effects of androgens. In clinical scenarios characterized by hyperandrogenemia in women, prompt normalization of androgen levels may be necessary to prevent their long-lasting cardiometabolic effects.
Spinal Cord Stimulation Treatment for Chronic Right Subcostal Neuralgia Secondary to Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Haddad Fareed F. , Mohsin Intikhab
Published: July 2018

The use of spinal cord stimulator (SCS) treatment has been particularly effective as an adjunct in treating mixed neuropathic, nociceptive, and radicular pain conditions. There are no published studies on the use of SCS for chronic pain syndrome after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. We successfully used an SCS on a 31-year-old woman with a 4-year history of intractable right-sided subcostal pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This case provides strong evidence that SCS should be considered as a treatment option for chronic postsurgical pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy not amenable to standard therapies.
T1 Paravertebral Catheter for Postoperative Pain Management After First Rib Resection for Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Kalava Arun , Pribish Abby M.
Published: July 2018

While it has been shown that a paravertebral block provides effective postoperative analgesia for patients undergoing thoracic surgeries, including first rib resection, this is the first reported case of a paravertebral catheter used for perioperative analgesia in a patient undergoing first rib resection. We present the case of a 76-year-old woman with right upper extremity swelling who underwent infraclavicular first rib resection for venous thoracic outlet syndrome. Continuous infusion of ropivacaine through a T1 paravertebral catheter, which was placed before induction of general anesthesia but after T1 and T2 paravertebral blocks, provided effective postoperative pain control. Our experience suggests that paravertebral catheter infusions of local anesthetics may be effective adjuncts to general anesthesia in patients undergoing first rib resection and warrants further investigation.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation in Treatment of Occipital Neuralgia: A Case Report
Authors: Ghaly Ramsis F. , Plesca Ana , Candido Kenneth D. , Knezevic Nebojsa Nick
Published: July 2018

Occipital neuralgia is the third most common headache syndrome after migraine and tension type headaches. There is no well-established treatment regimen for a reliable cure. The current case presents a 39-year-old woman, diagnosed with occipital neuralgia of idiopathic cause. The condition was difficult to control by conservative or interventional approaches. The patient was started on conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, 3 sessions per week. After the procedure, the patient achieved significant pain relief: 1–2/10 on the numeric rating scale, pain initially being 10/10. With maintenance therapy consisting of physical therapy, deep tissue massage, and muscle relaxants, 12 months after starting transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation therapy, she is pain free.
Pupillary Unrest in Ambient Light and Prediction of Opioid Responsiveness: Case Report on Its Utility in the Management of 2 Patients With Challenging Acute Pain Conditions
Authors: McKay Rachel Eshima , Neice Andrew E. , Larson Merlin D.
Published: July 2018

Pupillary unrest in ambient light (PUAL), the normal pattern of pupil diameter fluctuation present in awake humans, has been proposed as a marker of central opioid effect. We report 2 cases in which PUAL identified the appropriate pain management for 2 patients, each with unique, challenging acute pain conditions. In both cases, PUAL accurately predicted opioid responsiveness, suggesting an effective, individualized analgesic approach for both patients.
Conservative Management of Neuropathic Pain in a Patient With Pancoast-Tobias Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Jones James Harvey , Li Angela , Smith S. Kendall , Roy Lance , Fras Anne Marie
Published: July 2018

Pancoast-Tobias syndrome characterizes the signs and symptoms of a superior pulmonary sulcus tumor, and includes arm and shoulder pain, atrophy of intrinsic hand muscles, and ipsilateral Horner syndrome. The rarity and overall poor prognosis of patients with superior pulmonary sulcus tumors associated with Pancoast-Tobias syndrome has led to few reports detailing pain management strategies with adjunctive therapies, such as continuous infusions of ketamine and lidocaine, chemotherapy, radiation, and multimodal oral medication regimens. This case highlights the diagnosis and treatment of pain in a patient with Pancoast-Tobias syndrome.
Sphenopalatine Ganglion Block Successfully Treats Migraines in a Type 1 Arnold Chiari Malformation Pregnant Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Levin Danielle , Cohen Shaul , Mellender Scott , Kiss Geza
Published: July 2018

A 32-year-old woman at 36 weeks gestation with a medical history of corrected Type 1 Arnold Chiari malformation presented with an intractable headache. When methylprednisolone and morphine treatment provided no relief, we performed 2 topical transnasal sphenopalatine ganglion blocks by applying 4% lidocaine drops into each nostril via a cotton-tipped applicator. The patient’s symptoms significantly improved, and she was discharged home the same day. She has been without relapse of headaches during the 6 months of follow-up by our pain service.
Eyeball Ecstasy
Authors: Wolski Nathan
Published: July 2018

According to the Zohar, the most important work of the classical Kabbalah, in prayer the soul of the mystic ascends through seven celestial halls or palaces as part of its quest to unify the male and female aspects of divinity, and thereby stimulates Ein Sof, the infinite aspect of divinity to pour down its bounty. As the soul ascends through the halls—diverse qualities of being, imagined, and experienced as an array of lights—it travels higher and deeper, finally arriving at the imageless seventh hall, Shekhinah, now primed to receive the flow of higher realms. This article argues that the ascent is accomplished through pressing on the eyeball to generate phosphenes and associated entoptic phenomena. The stimulation of the eye’s inner light has been associated with shamanic practices and mystical experience as well as commented on by such thinkers as Plotinus, Albert the Great, and Isaac Newton. This study thus contributes to the growing appreciation of “ecstatic” states in the theosophical Kabbalah.
A pictorial review: multimodality imaging of benign and suspicious features of fat necrosis in the breast
Authors: Tayyab Sidra J , Adrada Beatriz E , Rauch Gaiane Margishvili , Yang Wei Tse
Published: July 2018

Fat necrosis of the breast is a well-described benign entity that can result in unnecessary biopsy of breast lesions. The pathogenesis of fat necrosis is a non-suppurative inflammatory process of adipose tissue, which may be seen after trauma, surgery, biopsy, post-breast reconstruction, post-fat grafting, post-radiotherapy, infection, and duct ectasia, among other conditions. Clinically, these patients may be asymptomatic or may present with a palpable lump, skin tethering, induration, and occasionally axillary lymphadenopathy. Depending on the time at which diagnostic imaging is performed, fat necrosis can have highly variable appearances on different modalities as it evolves. This is directly related to whether inflammation or fibrosis is predominating within the lesion, and correlation with clinical history is paramount in evaluating these patients. This review aims to analyze benign and suspicious imaging features of fat necrosis confirmed by tissue sampling. Knowledge of both benign and malignant-appearing features of fat necrosis on conventional modalities such as mammography and ultrasound, as well as newer applications including digital breast tomosynthesis, PET/CT, and MRI, should help the radiologist minimize the number of unnecessary biopsies.
Diurnal variation in the proinflammatory activity of urban fine particulate matter (PM2.5) by in vitro assays
Authors: Lovett Christopher , Cacciottolo Mafalda , Shirmohammadi Farimah , Haghani Amin , Morgan Todd E. , Sioutas Constantinos , Finch Caleb E.
Published: July 2018

Background: Ambient particulate matter (PM) smaller than 2.5 µm in diameter (PM2.5) undergoes diurnal changes in chemical composition due to photochemical oxidation. In this study we examine the relationships between oxidative activity and inflammatory responses associated with these diurnal chemical changes. Because secondary PM contains a higher fraction of oxidized PM species, we hypothesized that PM2.5 collected during afternoon hours would induce a greater inflammatory response than primary, morning PM2.5.

Methods: Time-integrated aqueous slurry samples of ambient PM2.5 were collected using a direct aerosol-into-liquid collection system during defined morning and afternoon time periods. PM2.5 samples were collected for 5 weeks in the late summer (August-September) of 2016 at a central Los Angeles site. Morning samples, largely consisting of fresh primary traffic emissions (primary PM), were collected from 6-9am (am-PM2.5), and afternoon samples were collected from 12-4pm (pm-PM2.5), when PM composition is dominated by products of photochemical oxidation (secondary PM). The two diurnally phased PM2.5 slurries (am- and pm-PM2.5) were characterized for chemical composition and BV-2 microglia were assayed in vitro for oxidative and inflammatory gene responses.

Results: Contrary to expectations, the am-PM2.5 slurry had more proinflammatory activity than the pm-PM2.5 slurry as revealed by nitric oxide (NO) induction, as well as the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and CCL2 (MCP-1), as assessed by messenger RNA production.

Conclusions: The diurnal differences observed in this study may be in part attributed to the greater content of transition metals and water-insoluble organic carbon (WIOC) of am-PM2.5 (primary PM) vs. pm-PM2.5 (secondary PM), as these two classes of compounds can increase PM2.5 toxicity.
Gestão participativa: a prática em uma grande siderúrgica
Authors: Natt Elisângela Domigues Michelatto , Bretas Paula Fernandes Furbino , Moura-Paula Marcos , Carrieri Alexandre De Pádua
Published: July 2018

Nosso objetivo foi compreender como as práticas de gestão participativa (GP) foram desenvolvidas em uma empresa siderúrgica considerando como agente e estrutura se constroem mutuamente numa perspectiva bourdieana. Fizemos entrevistas não estruturadas com trabalhadores da empresa e com sindicalistas e as analisamos com base na Teoria de Campos. Observamos que mesma estrutura que delimita as ações também proporciona resistências e incorporações, num processo conturbado, mas passível de acomodações e transições, idas e vindas, que requerem a prática dos agentes para alimentarem o campo a partir das capacidades inventivas e dóxicas que valorizam agência e estrutura, simultaneamente, ora privilegiando uma, ora, a outra. A análise nos permitiu perceber que as práticas de GP permitiram que houvesse tanto avanços quanto permanências de relações de dominação nas relações de trabalho e gestão de pessoas.
Gestão social e inovação social organizacional: convergências e divergências teóricas
Authors: Vieira da Silva Karin Da , Sasaki Vasques Pacheco Anderson
Published: July 2018

A inovação social e a gestão social são temáticas que ainda carecem de maior delimitação conceitual. Contudo, são assuntos que parecem convergir em sua natureza primária para um ponto em comum: a busca pelo desenvolvimento social, em seus moldes participativos. Nesse âmbito, o presente artigo buscou evidenciar as convergências e divergências entre as duas teorias, de modo a fornecer alguns indicativos sobre o caráter complementar entre elas e contribuir para que possam ser utilizadas conjuntamente na prática social, com maior clareza. Para tanto, buscou-se suporte, essencialmente, na literatura sobre gestão social e inovação social, ao apresentar e discutir os seus principais aspectos e confrontando as duas perspectivas. Trata-se, portanto, um artigo orientado metodologicamente pela revisão teórica. Dentre as principais convergências destaca-se a que ambas as teorias estão voltadas para uma maior participação, empoderamento, bem-comum e autonomia dos atores envolvidos, e, também, a satisfação das necessidades sociais não atendidas nem pelo Estado, nem pelo mercado. Já as divergências estão, sobretudo, nos procedimentos de pesquisa utilizados e na regionalidade dos trabalhos. Esse cenário fornece alguns indicativos sobre o contexto em que tais teorias ganharam robustez, dando subsídios para que sejam melhor compreendidas e para o intercâmbio de experiências e conhecimentos. Por fim, destaca-se que a compreensão e aplicação conjunta dessas duas relevantes teorias podem ser determinantes para o desenvolvimento social, especialmente, em regiões periféricas.
Significados da decisão do "retorno" para brasileiros/as com experiências migratórias na Inglaterra
Authors: Ornellas Laila Priscila Graf , Coutinho Maria Chalfin
Published: July 2018

Apresentamos parte dos resultados de uma pesquisa sobre as trajetórias sociais de brasileiros/as com experiência migratória internacional, analisando os significados relativos à decisão do "retorno". Compreender a formação dessa decisão se mostra fundamental à medida que essa concretização é uma reelaboração do projeto de migrar, e redefine a situação e o contexto de vida da pessoa, dos familiares e de pessoas na sociedade de origem e destino. Empregamos um conceito de trajetórias sociais francês, e a teoria da psicologia construcionista social e dos estudos narrativos. Coletamos as informações a partir de entrevistas com oito pessoas, que residiram na Inglaterra por um ano ou mais e retornaram ao Brasil entre 2008 e 2012. A maioria desses participantes eram jovens e qualificados, praticamente todos com formação superior no Brasil. Entendemos o regresso dentro da totalidade da experiência migratória, no entanto aqui desenvolvemos uma análise transversal às trajetórias dos participantes. Eles optaram pelo retorno a partir de uma narrativa pessoal que foi construída a partir de um "mosaico" de fatores, contendo: a data prevista; inserção profissional anterior; questões familiares; crise econômica e falta de perspectivas no destino; e busca por determinada qualidade de vida.