bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internal mammary artery-to-pulmonary vasculature fistula: Systematic review of case reports
Authors: Abdul Jabbar Ali , Patel Amish , Marzlin Nathan , Altabaqchali Sayf , Hasan Mohanad , Al-Zubaidi Muhanad , Agarwal Ajay
Published: October 2017

The formation of a fistula between the internal mammary artery and the pulmonary vasculature (IMA-to-PV) is a rare anomaly. The etiology can be congenital; however, most recent cases have been associated with coronary artery bypass grafting, trauma, inflammatory conditions, chronic infections, or neoplasia. The knowledge base on the formation of these fistulas is derived primarily from case reports. To our knowledge, no systematic reviews or guidelines are available that provide information on how to manage these cases, and the treatment of an IMA-to-PV fistula is controversial. To our knowledge, this report is the first to review 80 cases of IMA-to-PV fistulas reported in the literature. We describe the etiologies, clinical presentation, and management of these fistulas.
High-velocity impact behaviour of a new hybrid fibre-reinforced cementitious composite
Authors: Zhang YX , Kerr Zachary , Jarvis Brian , Volant Rhys J
Published: October 2017

In this article, a new engineered cementitious composite reinforced with 0.6% volume steel fibres and 1.5% volume polyvinyl-alcohol fibres is developed aiming for enhanced impact resistance compared to other construction materials. Fundamental mechanical properties of the new composite including the compressive strength, Young’s modulus, tensile strength and flexural behaviour were tested. To calibrate the impact resistance of the new composite, high-velocity impact tests of panels made of the new material were conducted when subjected to impact from a standard 7.62 mm round in-service bullet fired from a knight armament SR-25 military rifle. For comparison, plain concrete panels and concrete panels reinforced with 2% volume steel fibres were also tested. The post-impact responses of the panels in terms of crater sizes, damage failure mode, fragmentation size, weight and regress velocity are analysed and compared to characterize the impact resistance of the new engineered cementitious composite. The test results demonstrate significantly enhanced impact and shatter resistance of the new hybrid fibre-reinforced cementitious composite with reduced spalling and fragmentation, localized damage areas and improved cracking resistance.
Role of surgery in spinal cord injury
Authors: Balain Birender
Published: October 2017

This article deals with the main issues of surgical management of acute spinal cord injury patients – discussing the importance of timing of surgery with physiologic stability of the cord, and indications for surgery – absolute and relative. The importance of the type of injury to the spinal column, besides the cord injury, is also discussed. A brief review of relevant literature has been performed to try and answer the question whether early or late surgical treatment for acute spinal cord injury is better than conservative management, reflecting the ethos of treatment for these problems in RJ&AH Orthopaedic Hospital in Oswestry.
Experimental and numerical study of dynamic characteristic of a complex all-movable rudder system
Authors: Bai Yuguang , Qian Wei , Chen Xiangyan , Lu Taojun
Published: October 2017

Modal analysis and flutter computation of a complex tail cabin system including six all-movable rudders for hypersonic flight vehicle was studied in this paper. Recently, some complex all-movable rudder system has been applied to hypersonic flight vehicle. Many investigations were taken to analyse a single all-movable rudder, such as modal analysis, flutter analysis, aero-heating analysis, etc. But most of existing investigations emphasized on single rudder. In this paper, a complex tail cabin system including six all-movable rudders from the X-51A vehicle was investigated. Modal analysis was presented based on accurate finite element modelling and bending and twisting modes of the structure were computed. Ground vibration test was provided to confirm the accuracy of computation. Then flutter characteristic of this complex system was analysed based on doublet lattice method. With flight Mach number 3 and 4, flutter analysis relating to both symmetric mode and antisymmetric mode was presented. It can be found from the presented results of flutter analysis that there were obvious and non-negligible coupling vibration effects among rudders in such a complex rudder system. So flutter characteristic of hypersonic flight vehicle should be analysed based on the whole system modelling including all of rudders. This analysis process can play a significant role for the design and flight of hypersonic vehicle.
Development of laser-induced fluorescence to quantify in-cylinder fuel wall films
Authors: Geiler Jan N , Grzeszik Roman , Quaing Sebastian , Manz Andreas , Kaiser Sebastian A
Published: October 2017

Laser-induced fluorescence of a fuel tracer is a very sensitive technique to image in-cylinder liquid fuel films, but quantification of the measured film thickness has proven difficult so far. This article describes improvements in the quantification procedure and presents an example application in a motored, optically accessible spark-ignition engine with direct injection. We designed a calibration tool that could be pressurized and heated, allowing investigation of the laser-induced fluorescence intensities at temperatures exceeding the liquid’s standard-pressure boiling point. The fluorescence intensity of liquid toluene and 3-Pentanone dissolved in isooctane upon excitation with a pulsed laser at 266 nm was investigated as a function of temperature and pressure. Consistent with the literature results on gas-phase laser-induced fluorescence, the signal from toluene was much stronger than from 3-Pentanone, about two orders of magnitude for films thinner than 50 μm. Laser-induced fluorescence from both tracers decreased with increasing temperature but that of toluene significantly more. The response to pressure was less pronounced. For imaging across a large field of view, the spatial non-uniformity of laser excitation and detection efficiency was taken into account using a solid fluorescing substrate, an inexpensive Schott-glass WG280 filter. Isooctane with 0.5 vol.% toluene was used for application in the motored engine, imaging the liquid film on the piston-top window after direct injection from a central multi-hole injector. Air as a bulk gas was found to be advantageous over nitrogen in that gas-phase fluorescence was quenched by oxygen. The imaged film distributions and thicknesses and the derived total fuel film mass were physically plausible. Consistent with the recent literature results from a constant pressure vessel, increasing injection pressure from 50 to 100 bar did not decrease wall wetting but further increase to 200 bar did.
A Customization Grammar: Describing the customization process of apartment design
Authors: Griz Cristiana , Amorim Luiz , Mendes Leticia , Holanda Maria Augusta , Carvalho Thais
Published: October 2017

This article introduces the concept of Customization Grammar, an analytical shape grammar that describes the alterations introduced by homeowners to high-standard apartments before occupation. This is viewed as a contemporary phenomenon that reveals the incompatibility between social demands and housing units offered by the current real estate market in Recife, Brazil. It is expected that the proposed grammar could support mass customization design procedures and able to generate suitable housing units to current and future lifestyles.
Gender and Sexual Minorities’ Practice and Embodiment of Authentic Leadership: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Fine Leigh E.
Published: October 2017

The Problem

There are three barriers that might prevent gender and sexual minority (GSM) persons from putting the tenets of authentic leadership into practice. First, full authenticity with all social actors could carry risk in a world where heterosexuality and conformity to the gender binary remain the norm. Second, because of norms that surround the embodiment of leadership, GSM leaders who may wish to practice authenticity may not be able to be authentic in a way that is intelligible to others. Third, the very term authenticity is problematic: If authenticity is dependent on other’s interpretations of behavior as authentic, then there may be no such thing as an authentic self.

The Solution

This review of the literature outlines how human resource development (HRD) professionals may put authentic leadership principles into practice with GSM people—or to the ends of creating a more expansive understanding of what the authentic could be for us all. Interrogating the concept of authenticity and agitating for structural change can allow more individuals to realize their authentic selves.

The Stakeholders

Through collective engagement in the project of troubling and reconstructing authentic leadership based on the scholarship related to GSM people’s obstacles in practicing such, then we may be able to yet promote new forms of authenticity for all leaders.
Up to a Third of Renal Transplant Recipients Have Deficiencies in Cognitive Functioning
Authors: Stoessel Lisa , Schieber Katharina , Jank Sabine , Reber Sandra , Grundmann Franziska , Lueker Christine , Vitinius Frank , Paslakis Georgios , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Erim Yesim
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

Kidney transplantation is beneficial in improving cognitive abilities in patients with chronic kidney disease; however, there is still uncertainty concerning which cognitive domains benefit and to what extent.

Aim:

In the present study, cognitive functioning of renal transplant recipients was compared to normative data. Sociodemographic and clinical parameters that were associated with low cognitive performance were identified.

Design:

A total of 109 renal transplant recipients (63% men) participated in the study, with a mean age of 51.8 (standard deviation [SD] = 14.2) years. The cognitive test battery consisted of measurements assessing memory, attention, executive function, reproductive, and deductive ability.

Results:

In all tests, participants showed mean scores ranging within 1 SD of the population means. However, except for tests measuring memory, the percentage of participants scoring more than 1 SD below normed means was higher than expected in a normal distribution of performance. In certain tests, up to a third of the participants scored below average. Participants with continuous low performance (11%) showed higher age, poorer education, a longer time since transplantation, higher serum levels of urea and creatinine, and were more likely to have a deceased donor allograft.

Discussion:

Altough cognitive performance in renal transplant recipients matches normative data and confirms former findings, the amount of patients scoring more than 1 SD below average suggests that there are a considerable number of patients whose cognitive performance in certain domains lies below those of the general population. The identified sociodemographic and biochemical factors might be helpful to identify renal transplant recipients at risk.
Improvement in the model of cooperative aerial reconnaissance used in the tactical decision support system
Authors: Stodola Petr
Published: October 2017

This paper deals with the model of cooperative aerial reconnaissance. The goal of this high-level model is to explore the area of interest by a fleet of unmanned aerial systems optimally, which is (mostly) as fast as possible. The model has been implemented into the tactical decision support system to support commanders of the army of the Czech Republic in their decision making. The current paper does not present the model itself, but it enhances the original model by inserting a new parameter which is called angle delay coefficient. In the first part of the paper, the impact of the new parameter on the task of aerial reconnaissance is discussed. A series of experiments were proposed and conducted to verify the influence of the coefficient. The second part of the paper further improves the model by smoothing the routes of individual aerial systems; a new set of parameters are introduced.
Expressive Writing in Psychological Science
Authors: Pennebaker James W.
Published: October 2017

The 1997 Psychological Science paper “Writing About Emotional Experiences as a Therapeutic Process” summarized the results of several expressive writing studies. Since the publication of the first expressive writing study in 1986, a number of discoveries had emerged that had both theoretical and clinical implications. The scientific and personal backstories of the research are discussed. Finally, several possible reasons are advanced to explain why this particular paper has been cited as much as it has.
The use of PET/CT in pregnancy: A case report of malignant parathyroid carcinoma and a review of the literature
Authors: Gill Manpreet (Mona) , Sia Winnie , Hoskinson Michael , Niven Erin , Khurana Rshmi
Published: October 2017

Positron emission tomography scanning is not commonly performed in pregnancy but can be done if required. Fetal doses of radiation can be minimized, and our case exemplifies the safe application of positron emission tomography/computed tomography in pregnancy. A 38-year-old woman in her first ongoing pregnancy presented at 28 weeks’ gestation with symptomatic hypercalcemia. Given a history of parathyroid carcinoma, recurrence was suspected. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging failed to locate the lesion. However, positron emission tomography/computed tomography identified a culprit supraclavicular lymph node. This was excised under local anesthesia resulting in normalization of parathyroid hormone and calcium levels. A term, healthy baby was delivered. The literature provides support that the use of positron emission tomography/computed tomography is acceptable when indicated, and there are modifications to protocols that can further limit risk.
Making single-point aerial circus disciplines safer
Authors: Cossin Marion , Ross Annie , Gosselin Frédérick P
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this study was to measure the dynamic tension force between the apparatus and the hanging equipment of five aerial circus apparatuses and to recommend minimal loading requirements in rigging and design. The forces generated by different acrobatic movements were measured and synchronized with video recordings. Sixteen students of the National Circus School of Montréal (Canada) participated in the study. The maximal forces were analyzed and characterized with respect to the discipline, the type of movement and the schooling level of the student. The maximal force measured was 5.3 kN performed in the discipline of aerial straps, equivalent to 7.9 times the bodyweight of the performer. A minimal breaking strength of 22 kN for the hanging point and all the equipments holding the rig is recommended. A minimal breaking strength of 22 kN for straps, 17 kN for rope and 12 kN for silk, aerial hoop and dance trapeze is recommended.
Impact of Injection Speed, Volume, and Site on Pain Sensation
Authors: Zijlstra Eric , Jahnke Johannes , Fischer Annelie , Kapitza Christoph , Forst Thomas
Published: October 2017

Background:

Painful subcutaneous insulin injections may decrease treatment compliance. Improving injection comfort therefore represents a particular area of technological research in which steady progress has been made since the introduction of the insulin pen in 1985. Injection pain can be influenced by many variables, but relatively little is known about their impact. This study investigated the impact of injection volume (range 0-2250 µL), speed (range 0-800 µL/sec), and site (abdomen vs thigh) on pain sensation.

Method:

In random order, patients (n = 80) with type 1 or type 2 diabetes received 24 saline injections subcutaneously through a 27G ultra-thin-wall needle. Injections were performed in the abdomen (n = 19) and thigh (n = 5) with predefined speed-volume combinations. For each injected speed-volume combination, patients scored their pain sensation on a 100 mm visual analog scale (VAS).

Results:

The mean pain scores for speed-volume combinations were all in the lower part (<20 mm) of the VAS, indicating zero to mild pain. Pain sensation was statistically higher ( P < .05) with the 2250 µL volume compared to other injection volumes (range 4.3-5.1 mm) and with thigh compared to abdomen injections (2.1 mm). Pain sensation did not change with increasing injection speed. Patient acceptance of the injection pain was high for all injections (range 93.7-98.7%).

Conclusions:

In summary, large volume and thigh injections are rated more painful, but the clinical impact of these findings is likely marginal considering the low absolute pain levels and high patient acceptance rates. Injection speed does not influence pain sensation.
Acceptability of Implantable Continuous Glucose Monitoring Sensor
Authors: Barnard Katharine D. , Kropff Jort , Choudhary Pratik , Neupane Sankalpa , Bain Stephen C. , Kapitza Christoph , Forst Thomas , Link Manuela , Mdingi Colleen , DeVries J. Hans
Published: October 2017

Background:

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring is associated with significant benefits for diabetes management. Implantable sensors could overcome some challenges reportedly associated with device visibility, psychosocial functioning and sensor durability.

Methods:

A psychosocial assessment was conducted to determine acceptability and impact of an implantable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor as part of the PRECISE trial. Questionnaires were administered to participants comprising the Diabetes Distress Scale, the CGM impact scale, and bespoke device satisfaction.

Results:

Fifty-one participants across the United Kingdom (n = 10) and Germany (n = 41) completed the questionnaires. Of these, 90% had T1D, 50% followed an insulin pump therapy regimen, and 45% of the participants were previous CGM users. CGM Impact Scale results show 86% (n = 44) of participants reported feeling better (14% neutral) about their diabetes control with 90% CGM naïve participants and 81% previous CGM users reporting increased confidence about their diabetes management. Furthermore, 73% (n = 37) felt more safe (27% neutral) while sleeping and 78% (n = 39) more confident (22% neutral) about avoiding serious hypoglycemia. Responses correspond with an average improvement in HbA1c from 7.51 to 7.05 ( P < .0001) over the 90 days use of the CGM. Overall, the system was rated highly on ease of use, convenience and comfort. 84% would choose to be inserted again with 93% of CGM naïve participants (86% previous CGM users) reporting minimized burden of diabetes.

Conclusions:

Implantable CGM devices are acceptable to users and are evaluated favorably. The considerable majority of participants (93% of first time users and 77% previous CGM users) would like to continue using the system to help manage their diabetes more effectively.
Cerebrospinal fluid spaces between intracranial venous sinuses and overlying dura mater: magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tsutsumi Satoshi , Ono Hideo , Yasumoto Yukimasa
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The intracranial venous sinuses are thought to lie interdurally, circumferentially contacting the dura maters. There has been no report documenting the cerebrospinal fluid spaces intervening between the venous sinuses and overlying dura mater. Here, we explored such structures using magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

A total of 206 patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging with a T2-weighted or constructive interference steady-state sequence. Imaging data were analysed on a workstation.

Results

The peri-superior sagittal sinus cerebrospinal fluid spaces were identified in 100% of 133 patients who underwent coronal and sagittal T2-weighted imaging and in 98.6% of 73 with a constructive interference steady-state sequence. Among the 205 patients, the cerebrospinal fluid spaces were distributed over the frontoparietal region in 84% and the parietal region in 16%. On sagittal sections performed for 58 patients, the cerebrospinal fluid spaces were identified between the superior sagittal sinus and overlying dura mater. The peri-sinus spaces were found in 91% of the identified transverse sinuses, 29% of the straight and 70% of the occipital sinuses. The peri-superior sagittal sinus cerebrospinal fluid spaces were classified into five distinct appearances. The circumferential type was the most predominant and was found in 68.7%, followed by lateral in 10.2%, lateral plus inferior in 7.5%, lateral plus superior in 6.8% and superior in 6.8%.

Conclusions

The intracranial venous sinuses do not circumferentially contact with the dura maters. Instead, they are adjacent to the cerebrospinal fluid spaces intervening between the walls and overlying dura maters. These spaces are critical when considering tumour extensions contralateral to the superior sagittal sinus and safe surgical manoeuvres around it.
A multiparadigm approach to job search scholarship
Authors: Manroop Laxmikant
Published: October 2017

This article examines the job search literature through a multiparadigmatic framework and makes a case for scholars to embrace alternative ways of looking at job search that goes beyond the dominant positivist paradigm. A theoretical approach was used drawing on Burrell and Morgan’s multiparadigmatic framework to show the different ways in which job search can be perceived, interpreted, and understood. The article demonstrates how employing alternative paradigm lenses (namely, interpretivism, critical management theory, and postmodernism) located within nonpositivism to analyze job search can complement the dominant positivist approach to yield a more holistic and comprehensive view of the job search phenomenon. The article, therefore, opens up a space for a multiparadigmatic approach to studying job search.
Transforming early childhood experiences with digital technologies
Authors: Hatzigianni Maria
Published: October 2017

The aim of this article is to stimulate a discussion beyond just the use of digital technologies in the early years of education, to also consider the broader societal implications of their use. The Freirian notion that education has the power to transform lives is reflected upon in this article, and it explores the use of new technologies in ways that have the potential to significantly alter the everyday practices adopted in the early years curriculum experience. Projects underpinned by a critical or postmodern framework and how they used digital technologies to make crucial changes in the lives of their participants will also be analysed in an attempt to further inspire the future research endeavours.
Capturing community in mobility: Mobile methods for community informatics
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Hanrahan Benjamin V. , Yuan Chien Wen (Tina) , Carroll John M.
Published: October 2017

The field of community informatics focuses on how information and communication technology can contribute to the development and sustainability of local communities. The ubiquity of mobile technologies, coupled with their affordances of connecting people and accessing information anytime, anywhere, brings new opportunities for community informatics research. These same affordances also entrain new methodological challenges in capturing and understanding mobile technology use, as mobile-supported interactions can be difficult to study systematically. Such interactions are often situated in complex social and physical settings, such as the local community context. In response to these challenges, we describe the method for scripting events that participants enact within their community and through which we probe how mobile technology impacts community building and vice versa. With the scripted method, we emphasize the need to integrate multiple streams of data and analyses to triangulate and obtain a holistic picture of community interactions. This scripted method is designed to afford ecological validity in employing socially and behaviorally realistic activities, while maintaining some research control, in providing a standard scaffold for participants to enact target behaviors. We discuss how our method could be leveraged in other mobile media communication studies involved in complex social and physical contexts.
Effect of Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 on symptoms, gut microbiota, short chain fatty acids, and immune activation in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A pilot randomized clinical trial
Authors: Cremon Cesare , Guglielmetti Simone , Gargari Giorgio , Taverniti Valentina , Castellazzi Anna Maria , Valsecchi Chiara , Tagliacarne Carlotta , Fiore Walter , Bellini Massimo , Bertani Lorenzo , Gambaccini Dario , Cicala Michele , Germanà Bastianello , Vecchi Maurizio , Pagano Isabella , Barbaro Maria Raffaella , Bellacosa Lara , Stanghellini Vincenzo , Barbara Giovanni
Published: October 2017

Background

Evidence suggests a role of intestinal microbiota‐host interactions in the pathophysiology and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Objective

The objective of this article is to assess the effects of Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 on clinical and gut microbiota‐related factors in IBS.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, cross‐over, 18‐week, placebo‐controlled, pilot trial assessing the effect of Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 on symptoms, gut microbiota composition, fecal short chain fatty acid (SCFA), immunoglobulin A, and cytokines in IBS. The intestinal microbial ecosystem was characterized by 16S rRNA gene profiling.

Results

Forty IBS patients were enrolled from five Italian centers. Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 did not significantly improve IBS symptoms, including primary efficacy variables worst abdominal pain/discomfort and IBS degree of relief. Interestingly, Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 induced a significant reduction in genus Ruminococcus, dominated by taxa related to Ruminococcus bromii and Ruminococcus callidus, a significant increase in the SCFAs acetate and butyrate, and a significant reduction in the pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐15.

Conclusions

This pilot study shows that Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I‐1572 is able to modulate gut microbiota structure/function and reduce immune activation in IBS. As no statistically significant effect on IBS‐symptoms was found, further studies are necessary to determine the role of this probiotic in IBS. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov registry under identifier NCT02371499.
Effect of Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ghazanfarpour Masumeh , Shokrollahi Paymaneh , Khadivzadeh Talat , Baharian Sharghi Nosrat , Mirzaii Najmabadi Khadijeh , Babakhanian Masoudeh , Jafarian Amir Hossine
Published: October 2017

Objectives

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of orally administered fennel on vaginal atrophy.

Materials and methods

In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 60 postmenopausal women living in Mashhad, Iran, were randomly divided into an oral fennel group (n = 30) and a placebo group (n = 30). The Maturation Vaginal Index and maturation values were measured once at baseline and again upon a three-month follow-up.

Results

The paired t-test showed statistically significant changes in the Maturation Vaginal Index (i.e. a decline in the parabasal cells and an increase in the intermediate and superficial cells) and maturation values in both the fennel and placebo groups at the end of the trial compared to at baseline. Nonetheless, no significant differences were observed in the percentages of the parabasal (P = 0.191), intermediate (P = 0.219) and superficial (P = 0.82) cells, which was also the case for the maturation values (P = 0.64).

Conclusion

Fennel had no significant positive effects on vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. Nonetheless, more studies are recommended to be conducted using higher doses of fennel and larger sample sizes so as to verify the results of this study.
Randomized controlled trial of an e-learning designed behavioral intervention for increasing physical activity behavior in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Motl Robert W , Hubbard Elizabeth A , Bollaert Rachel E , Adamson Brynn C , Kinnett-Hopkins Dominique , Balto Julia M , Sommer Sarah K , Pilutti Lara A , McAuley Edward
Published: October 2017

Background

Internet-delivered, behavioral interventions represent a cost-effective, broadly disseminable approach for teaching persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) the theory-based skills, techniques, and strategies for changing physical activity.

Objectives

This pilot, randomized controlled trial examined the efficacy of a newly developed Internet website based on e-learning approaches that delivered a theory-based behavior intervention for increasing physical activity and improving symptoms, walking impairment, and neurological disability.

Methods

Participants with MS ( N = 47) were randomly assigned into behavioral intervention ( n = 23) or waitlist control ( n = 24) conditions delivered over a six-month period. Outcomes were administered before and after the six-month period using blinded assessors, and data were analyzed using analysis of covariance in SPSS.

Results

There was a significant, positive intervention effect on self-reported physical activity ( P = 0.05, [Formula: see text] = 0.10), and non-significant improvement in objectively measured physical activity ( P = 0.24, [Formula: see text] = 0.04). There were significant, positive effects of the intervention on overall ( P = 0.018, [Formula: see text] = 0.13) and physical impact of fatigue ( P = 0.003, [Formula: see text] = 0.20), self-reported walking impairment ( P = 0.047, [Formula: see text] = 0.10), and disability status ( P = 0.033, [Formula: see text] = 0.11). There were non-significant improvements in fatigue severity ( P = 0.10, [Formula: see text] = 0.06), depression ( P = 0.10, [Formula: see text] = 0.07) and anxiety ( P = 0.06, [Formula: see text] = 0.09) symptoms, and self-reported disability ( P = 0.10, [Formula: see text] = 0.07).

Conclusions

We provide evidence for the efficacy of an Internet-based behavioral intervention with content delivered through interactive video courses grounded in e-learning principles for increasing physical activity and possibly improving secondary outcomes of fatigue, depression, anxiety, and walking impairment/disability in persons with MS.
Falls are unintentional: Studying simulations is a waste of faking time
Authors: Stack Emma
Published: October 2017

Researchers tend to agree that falls are, by definition, unintentional and that sensor algorithms (the processes that allows a computer program to identify a fall among data from sensors) perform poorly when attempting to detect falls ‘in the wild’ (a phrase some scientists use to mean ‘in reality’). Algorithm development has been reliant on simulation, i.e. asking actors to throw themselves intentionally to the ground. This is unusual (no one studies faked coughs or headaches) and uninformative (no one can intend the unintentional). Researchers would increase their chances of detecting ‘real’ falls in ‘the real world’ by studying the behaviour of fallers, however, vulnerable, before, during and after the event: the literature on the circumstances of falling is more informative than any number of faked approximations. A complimentary knowledge base (in falls, sensors and/or signals) enables multidisciplinary teams of clinicians, engineers and computer scientists to tackle fall detection and aim for fall prevention. Throughout this paper, I discuss differences between falls, ‘intentional falling’ and simulations, and the balance between simulation and reality in falls research, finally suggesting ways in which researchers can access examples of falls without resorting to fakery.
Producing society or the self-producing of society? A study of an NGO’s difficult situation on poverty reduction
Authors: Sun Feiyu , Chu Huijuan , Zhang Yanlong
Published: October 2017

How social organizations that envision social reforms interact with existing social and political structures in their practice is key to the understanding of philanthropic organizations and their social actions in the current Chinese context. To address this issue, a ‘social production’ perspective was adopted and the structural features and poverty alleviation practices of a philanthropic organization, which has successfully solved the entry problem whilst clearly recognizing and maintaining its independence, were studied. The organization, with a clear vision, actionable goals, compatible and strict management as well as monitoring systems, has encountered many obstacles that are inconsistent with its goals. The organization may thus be unable to realize its goals in practice, may fall into a detached state, and even become a structural space for the reproduction of local society. This paper attempts to provide an understanding of the obstacles that this organization encountered from a ‘state–society’ perspective and study it by re-embedding the organization into the local social–political context. It is argued that this organization became an academically interesting entity because it illustrates the complexity of the transition process of Chinese society and provides for observation of the society’s self-reproduction process. Thus the various social realities and problems observed from this organization’s practices and actions can be seen as analogous to China’s current political and social issues; as such it can therefore help with developing a holistic understanding of the phenomena, mechanisms and issues in China’s political and social transition process.
Microfinance and Poverty Alleviation: A Conceptual Framework with Special Emphasis on J&K Region
Authors: Sofi Fouzia Jan , Sumaira
Published: October 2017

The current article discusses the conceptual framework of microfinance where it provides a debate on microfinance and poverty alleviation. It aims to provide an understanding regarding the working of conventional as well as Islamic microfinance through different microfinance models that are operating across the globe. At the same time, it also presents a critique of microfinance and discusses a case of interest-free microfinance with special reference to Jammu and Kashmir as an alternative to conventional microfinance system. The main aim of these alternatives is to overcome the problems faced by its conventional counterpart.
CEDNIK
Authors: Hsu Tina , Coughlin Carrie C. , Monaghan Kristin G. , Fiala Elise , McKinstry Robert C. , Paciorkowski Alex R. , Shinawi Marwan
Published: October 2017

Synaptosomal-associated protein 29 (SNAP29) is a t-SNARE protein that is implicated in intracellular vesicle fusion. Mutations in the SNAP29 gene have been associated with cerebral dysgenesis, neuropathy, ichthyosis, and keratoderma syndrome (CEDNIK). In patients with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, mutations in SNAP29 on the nondeleted chromosome are linked to similar ichthyotic and neurological phenotypes. Here, the authors report a patient with cerebral dysgenesis, neuropathy, ichthyosis, and keratoderma syndrome who presented with global developmental delay, polymicrogyria, dysgenesis of the corpus callosum, optic nerve dysplasia, gaze apraxia, and dysmorphic features. He has developed ichthyosis and palmoplantar keratoderma as he has grown. Exome sequencing identified a homozygous nonsense mutation in SNAP29 gene designated as c.85C>T (p.Arg29X). The authors compare the findings in the proband with previously reported cases. The previously unreported mutation in this patient and his phenotype add to the characterization of cerebral dysgenesis, neuropathy, ichthyosis, and keratoderma syndrome and the accumulating scientific evidence that implicates synaptic protein dysfunction in various neuroectodermal conditions.
Producing Sacredness and Defending Secularity: Faith in the Workplace of Taiwanese Scientists
Authors: Di Di , Ecklund Elaine Howard
Published: October 2017

Although a recent body of scholarship focuses on how business professionals infuse spiritual practices in their workplaces, comparatively little attention has been paid to faith in the scientific workplace, especially in an Eastern, non-Christian context. Between 2014 and 2015, we conducted a survey of 892 scientists in Taiwan and completed interviews with 52 of our survey respondents. In this paper, we examine how scientists navigate religion in the scientific workplace. Survey results demonstrate that while scientists perceive religion and scientific research as generally separate in the abstract, in practice, they regard the boundary between religion and their workplace as somewhat permeable. Interviews further show how different groups of Taiwanese scientists create sacredness and defend secularity in scientific work. Results have implications for future research on how scientists (and potentially those in other types of professions) in non-Western and non-Christian countries navigate faith at work.
No Ifs, Ands, or Buts: Leveraging Population Health to Focus on the Care of Patients Who Smoke
Authors: Cohen Jenny K , Bakamjian Allison , Leng Lisa , Adhikari Mili , Flattery Davida , Berry Lyn
Published: October 2017

We developed a multidisciplinary curriculum to improve our residents’ proficiency with smoking cessation counseling and prescribing of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The curriculum included a didactic portion, informational handouts, and a panel management component during which residents did telephone outreach and clinic in-reach to address high rates of smoking among patients. Residents rated their confidence with smoking cessation counseling and clinical knowledge before and after the intervention. We also tracked the number of patients flagged in the electronic medical record as smokers, the number of patients contacted, and the number of patients who received counseling. Although we did not make statistically significant improvements in perceived confidence with prescribing NRT, we found that there is an urgent need to address smoking cessation in the primary care setting and that working with a clinical pharmacist and psychologist offered a comprehensive approach. Furthermore, by anchoring the intervention with a population health component, almost 200 patients benefited from outreach efforts.
Customer Value Is Not Just Created, It Is Formally Managed
Authors: Liozu Stephan M.
Published: October 2017

The definition of customer value and its conceptualization can be complex. There is a confusion in the term itself but also in the sequence of creating, quantifying, and capturing value. This article intends to clarify the difference between the three steps of customer value management. It posits that customer value management needs to be a formal process in organizations and that this process needs to be formally managed as well. In order to do so, organizations need to focus on the development of customer value management capabilities across the three stages of the customer value management process: creation, quantification, and capture. Customer value is not just created. It needs to be managed.
Having a bad attitude? The relationship between attitudes and sickness absence
Authors: Hauge Karen Evelyn , Ulvestad Marte Eline
Published: October 2017

Is sickness absence related to attitudes? Several studies point to attitudes as an important factor for sickness absence. We study the relation between sickness absence and attitudes towards possible reasons for sick leave, towards cheating and towards work, by linking a survey among Norwegian healthcare workers, aimed at identifying attitudes, to detailed data on sickness absence from the employers. We find that there is an association between sickness absence and certain attitudes but mainly for self-certified sick leave. Employees with more lenient attitudes towards sick leave have more self-certified sick leave, but not more GP-certified sick leave. Furthermore, we find no evidence of attitudes being able to explain the persistently observed differences is absenteeism between different demographic groups.
Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With BRAF V600–Mutant Metastatic Melanoma Who Received Dabrafenib Combined With Trametinib
Authors: Long Georgina V. , Eroglu Zeynep , Infante Jeffrey , Patel Sapna , Daud Adil , Johnson Douglas B. , Gonzalez Rene , Kefford Richard , Hamid Omid , Schuchter Lynn , Cebon Jonathan , Sharfman William , McWilliams Robert , Sznol Mario , Redhu Suman , Gasal Eduard , Mookerjee Bijoyesh , Weber Jeffrey , Flaherty Keith T.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

To report 5-year landmark analysis efficacy and safety outcomes in patients with BRAF V600–mutant metastatic melanoma (MM) who received BRAF inhibitor dabrafenib (D) and MEK inhibitor trametinib (T) combination therapy versus D monotherapy in the randomized phase II BRF113220 study part C.

Patients and Methods

BRAF inhibitor–naive patients with BRAF V600–mutant MM were randomly assigned 1:1:1 to receive D 150 mg twice a day, D 150 mg twice a day plus T 1 mg once daily, or D 150 mg twice a day plus T 2 mg once daily (D + T 150/2). Patients who received D monotherapy could cross over to D + T 150/2 postprogression. Efficacy and safety were analyzed 4 and 5 years after initiation in patients with ≥ 5 years of follow-up.

Results

As of October 13, 2016, 18 patients who received D + T 150/2 remained in the study (13 [24%] of 54 enrolled at this dose plus five [11%] of 45 initially administered D who crossed over to D + T). With D + T 150/2, overall survival (OS; 4 years, 30%; 5 years, 28%) and progression-free survival (4 and 5 years, both 13%) appeared to stabilize with extended follow-up. Increased OS was observed in patients who received D + T with baseline normal lactate dehydrogenase (5 years, 45%) and normal lactate dehydrogenase with fewer than three organ sites with metastasis (5 years, 51%). With extended follow-up, one additional patient who received D + T 150/2 improved from a partial to a complete response. No new safety signals were observed.

Conclusion

This 5-year analysis represents the longest follow-up to date with BRAF + MEK inhibitor combination therapy in BRAF V600–mutant MM. Consistent with trends observed in landmark analyses with shorter follow-up, this therapy elicits durable plateaus of long-term OS and progression-free survival that last ≥ 5 years in some patients with MM.
MMP-14 overexpression correlates with the neurodegenerative process in familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy
Authors: Martins Diana , Moreira João , Gonçalves Nádia Pereira , Saraiva Maria João
Published: October 2017

Levels of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) can be differentially regulated in response to injury or neurological diseases. For instance, it is known that selective and short-term inhibition of MMP-14, a membrane-type 1 MMP, accelerates axon regeneration. Because axon growth and regeneration is impaired in familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP), a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by misfolding and deposition of mutant transthyretin (TTR) in the peripheral nervous system (PNS), we presently investigated the expression levels and the potential role for MMP-14 in this condition. By using cell culture studies, a mouse model of disease and human clinical samples, we observed that MMP-14: (i) is overexpressed in FAP nerves, correlating with TTR deposition; (ii) is upregulated in sciatic nerves from a preclinical transgenic mouse model, increasing with TTR deposition; (iii) levels in the PNS and plasma are rescued upon treatment of mice with anakinra or TTR siRNA, drugs acting over the IL-1 signaling pathway or TTR liver synthesis, respectively; (iv) increases in Schwann cells upon incubation with amyloid-like aggregates; and, finally, (v) is increased in plasma of FAP patients, correlating with disease progression. These results highlight the relevance of MMP-14 in the pathophysiology of FAP, suggesting not only a potential role for this molecule as a novel biomarker for therapy follow up, but also as a new potential therapeutic target.
Central and peripheral circadian clocks and their role in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chauhan Ruchi , Chen Ko-Fan , Kent Brianne A. , Crowther Damian C.
Published: October 2017

Molecular and cellular oscillations constitute an internal clock that tracks the time of day and permits organisms to optimize their behaviour and metabolism to suit the daily demands they face. The workings of this internal clock become impaired with age. In this review, we discuss whether such age-related impairments in the circadian clock interact with age-related neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. Findings from mouse and fly models of Alzheimer's disease have accelerated our understanding of the interaction between neurodegeneration and circadian biology. These models show that neurodegeneration likely impairs circadian rhythms either by damaging the central clock or by blocking its communication with other brain areas and with peripheral tissues. The consequent sleep and metabolic deficits could enhance the susceptibility of the brain to further degenerative processes. Thus, circadian dysfunction might be both a cause and an effect of neurodegeneration. We also discuss the primary role of light in the entrainment of the central clock and describe important, alternative time signals, such as food, that play a role in entraining central and peripheral circadian clocks. Finally, we propose how these recent insights could inform efforts to develop novel therapeutic approaches to re-entrain arrhythmic individuals with neurodegenerative disease.
A comparison of spatial heterogeneity with local cluster detection methods for chronic respiratory diseases in Thailand
Authors: Laohasiriwong Wongsa , Puttanapong Nattapong , Luenam Amornrat
Published: October 2017

Background: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that deaths from chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) in Thailand increased by almost 13% in 2010, along with an increased burden related to the disease. Evaluating the geographical heterogeneity of CRDs is important for surveillance. Previous studies have indicated that socioeconomic status has an effect on disease, and that this can be measured with variables such as night-time lights (NTLs) and industrial density (ID). However, there is no understanding of how NTLs and ID correlate with CRDs. We compared spatial heterogeneity obtained by using local cluster detection methods for CRDs and by correlating NTLs and ID with CRDs.

Methods: We applied the spatial scan statistic in SaTScan, as well as local indices of spatial association (LISA), Getis and Ord’s local Gi*(d) statistic, and Pearson correlation. In our analysis, data were collected on gender, age, household income, education, family size, occupation, region, residential area, housing construction materials, cooking fuels, smoking status and previously diagnosed CRDs by a physician from the National Socioeconomic Survey, which is a cross-sectional study conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand in 2010.

Results: According to our findings, the spatial scan statistic, LISA, and the local Gi*(d) statistic revealed similar results for areas with the highest clustering of CRDs. However, the hotspots for the spatial scan statistic covered a wider area than LISA and the local Gi*(d) statistic. In addition, there were persistent hotspots in Bangkok and the perimeter provinces. NTLs and ID have a positive correlation with CRDs.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates that all the statistical methods used could detect spatial heterogeneity of CRDs. NTLs and ID can serve as new parameters for determining disease hotspots by representing the population and industrial boom that typically contributes to epidemics.