bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate Cash Holdings: An Empirical Investigation of Indian Companies
Authors: Arora Ravinder Kumar
Published: June 2019

The article examines the pattern of cash holdings of 266 Indian companies comprised in the S&P BSE 500 index for the period 2005–2015 to understand the factors that influence the level of cash balances, to estimate the amount of excess cash held by these companies and to analyse how these companies spend their excess cash. The sample companies hold approximately 12 per cent of their total assets as cash in 2015. The pattern of cash holdings of the sample companies is supported by the static trade-off and the financing hierarchy model. Consistent with earlier evidence, firms with large cash balances have strong growth opportunities, larger cash flows, higher cash flow volatility, higher leverage, higher level of promoter holding and belong to the government-owned sector. Companies that have more liquid assets other than cash have more tangible assets and pay more to their shareholders hold lower cash balances. However, contrary to earlier evidence, size of the firm is not related to the amount of cash holding. Further, firms with large cash balances have higher leverage. The study does not find association of cash holding with many other variables found to have association with cash holding in developed markets. A large number of the firms in the sample hold cash in excess of what is predicted on the basis of firm’s characteristics. These companies manage their cash balances in a manner that is not consistent with maximization of shareholders’ wealth.
The right to paid annual leave as an EU fundamental social right. Comment on Bauer et al.: Joined Cases C-569/16 and C-570/16 Stadt Wuppertal v. Maria Elisabeth Bauer and Volker Willmeroth v. Martina Broßonn, EU:C:2018:871
Authors: Panascì Maria Antonia
Published: June 2019

This case note examines the judgment of Court of Justice of the European Union delivered in Joined Cases C-569/16 and C-570/16 Stadt Wuppertal v. Maria Elisabeth Bauer and Volker Willmeroth v. Martina Broßonn on 6 November 2018. It engages with the noteworthy aspects of the ruling, such as the horizontal direct effect of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the Charter), the relationship between primary and secondary law in the European Union legal order and the scope of application of the Charter.
Workforce Development Through Online Experiential Learning for STEM Education
Authors: Mohammadi Arefeh , Grosskopf Kevin , Killingsworth John
Published: June 2019

The U.S. workforce is increasingly comprised of older adults, women, and minorities who lack basic skills and are unable to acquire these skills through traditional educational and training programs. New approaches are needed to provide effective training to the adult learner and flexible support for nontraditional students who must balance work-life demands with limited educational opportunities. Contextualized teaching and learning (CTL) is a form of experiential learning that blends both basic skills and occupational training together in environments that allow students to relate subject matter to real-world situations. Virtual CTL environments can be created to better engage students, provide immediate performance feedback, reduce training time, and improve accessibility. To determine the effectiveness of CTL, the Society of Manufacturing Engineers Tooling U curriculum and learning management system (LMS) was studied. This intervention consisted of online modules with basic skills remediation blended with interactive labs and virtual reality exercises. A nonrandom population of 342 participants was chosen for study, including 75 exposed to the CTL intervention (experimental group) and 267 not exposed to the CTL intervention (control group). Learning outcomes such as test scores, completed credit hours, course completions, and earned credentials, were compared between CTL and non-CTL groups and between demographic subsets within the CTL group. Underrepresented groups, including older adults, women, and minorities, were 2 to 3 times greater in the CTL group compared with the non-CTL group. Overall, students exposed to CTL achieved higher rates of credentialing (55%) when compared with students not exposed to contextualized instruction (20%).
Concentrations of the Selected Biomarkers of Endothelial Dysfunction in Response to Antiepileptic Drugs: A Literature Review
Authors: Sarecka-Hujar Beata , Szołtysek-Bołdys Izabela , Kopyta Ilona , Dolińska Barbara , Sobczak Andrzej
Published: June 2019

Epilepsy is a disease arising from morphological and metabolic changes in the brain. Approximately 60% of patients with seizures can be controlled with 1 antiepileptic drug (AED), while in others, polytherapy is required. The AED treatment affects a number of biochemical processes in the body, including increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). It is indicated that the duration of AED therapy with some AEDs significantly accelerates the process of atherosclerosis. Most of AEDs increase levels of homocysteine (HCys) as well as may affect concentrations of new, nonclassical risk factors for atherosclerosis, that is, asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and homoarginine (hArg). Because of the role of these parameters in the pathogenesis of CVD, knowledge of HCys, ADMA, and hArg concentrations in patients with epilepsia treated with AED, both pediatric and adult, appears to be of significant importance.
Calculation of the natural frequencies and mode shapes of a Euler–Bernoulli beam which has any combination of linear boundary conditions
Authors: Gonçalves Paulo J. Paupitz , Brennan Michael J. , Peplow Andrew , Tang Bin
Published: June 2019

There are well-known expressions for natural frequencies and mode shapes of a Euler-Bernoulli beam which has classical boundary conditions, such as free, fixed, and pinned. There are also expressions for particular boundary conditions, such as attached springs and masses. Surprisingly, however, there is not a method to calculate the natural frequencies and mode shapes for a Euler–Bernoulli beam which has any combination of linear boundary conditions. This paper describes a new method to achieve this, by writing the boundary conditions in terms of dynamic stiffness of attached elements. The method is valid for any boundaries provided they are linear, including dissipative boundaries. Ways to overcome numerical issues that can occur when computing higher natural frequencies and mode shapes are also discussed. Some examples are given to illustrate the applicability of the proposed method.
Salmonella and Shigella Among Asymptomatic Street Food Vendors in the Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia: Prevalence, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Pattern, and Associated Factors
Authors: Tadesse Gizaw , Mitiku Habtamu , Teklemariam Zelalem , Marami Dadi
Published: June 2019

Background:

Salmonella and Shigella infections are a common public health problem throughout the world. The risk of getting infections is high, where asymptomatic street food vendors are preparing foods and vending. Current knowledge of antimicrobial susceptibility pattern is essential for appropriate treatment and management of these infections.

Objective:

This study was aimed to determine the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility pattern, and associated factors of Salmonella and Shigella among asymptomatic street food vendors in the Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 218 randomly selected asymptomatic street food vendors in the Dire Dawa city, Eastern Ethiopia from May to July 2017. Data on the sociodemographic and associated factors were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire. The stool specimens collected were examined for Salmonella and Shigella using recommended culture methods. The antimicrobial susceptibility test was done using the disk diffusion technique. Data were described using descriptive statistical tools. Logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with Salmonella and Shigella infections. A P-value ⩽ .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The overall prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella was 8.7% (95% confidence interval: 5.6, 10.3). The most common isolates were Salmonella (6%). Most of the isolates were resistant to amoxicillin (97.7%), ampicillin (89.5%), and tetracycline (68.4%). Almost half (47.4%) of Salmonella isolates were multidrug resistant. Food vendors who did not wash hands with soap after the use of the toilet (adjusted odds ratio: 3.3, 95% confidence interval: 1.2, 7.9), and who had untrimmed fingernails (adjusted odds ratio: 4.4, 95% confidence interval: 1.5, 9.3) had higher odds of Salmonella and Shigella compared with their counterparts.

Conclusions:

The carrier rate of Salmonella and Shigella was relatively low. Most isolates have developed resistance to amoxicillin, ampicillin, and tetracycline. The odds of Salmonella and Shigella was high among those who lack a habit of hand washing with soap after the use of the toilet and with untrimmed fingernails. Regular screening and appropriate hygienic control measures are needed in place to reduce the risk of infections.
One size fits all? In search of the desirable caption display for second language learners with different caption reliance in listening comprehension
Authors: Lee Ping-Jung , Liu Yeu-Ting , Tseng Wen-Ta
Published: June 2019

Existing research has established captions as effective second-language (L2) or foreign language (FL) listening comprehension aids. However, due to the transient nature of captions, not all learners are capable of attending to captions in all cases. Previous work posited that to leverage the impact of technologies in learning and instruction, a better understanding of the interplay between technology and cognition is warranted. In this vein, the current study set out to investigate the effects of four different caption modes (full vs. partial vs. real-time vs. control) on the listening comprehension of 95 high-intermediate Taiwanese learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) with different caption reliance (i.e. more-caption-reliant vs. less-caption-reliant). The results showed no significant difference between the participants’ listening comprehension outcomes under the four caption conditions when their caption reliance was not considered. However, when this was considered, the differences among the four caption conditions became salient, which was suggestive of the selective effect of captions on L2 learners with different caption reliance. While less-caption-reliant L2 learners had the best listening comprehension outcome under the partial-caption condition and the worst under the full-caption condition, more-caption-reliant L2 learners exhibited the best performance under the full-caption condition yet the worst under the partial-caption condition. The finding underscores the importance of considering L2 learners’ processing profiles when utilizing captioned videos as multimodal instructional/learning materials and speaks to the need of utilizing differentiated video materials for optimal listening outcomes.
Inelastic displacement spectra for Chinese highway bridges characterized by single-degree-of-freedom bilinear systems
Authors: Wu Yi-feng , Li Ai-qun , Wang Hao
Published: June 2019

As for the inelastic displacement demand of a single-degree-of-freedom system, previous studies usually focus on the strength reduction factor, R, or the inelastic displacement ratio, C. Only a little literature reports the direct statistical results of the mean inelastic displacement spectra, Sd. Based on 308 earthquake records selected from three types of site soil, differences between the direct mean Sd and the indirect ones that respectively derived from mean R and mean Cμ are investigated, in which Cμ refers to the constant ductility inelastic displacement ratio. It is found the indirect Sd will introduce errors for using mean R and mean Cμ, while the dispersion of the direct spectra need to be reduced before putting into practice. Two methods, the period normalized method and the spectra-matching method, are employed to address the dispersion problem, and the latter one that modified a record to make its acceleration response spectra compatible with the specified standard, Chinese highway bridge seismic design guidelines in this study, works with more acceptable performance. Finally, a comprehensive equation is proposed to characterize the spectra-matching mean Sd, the practicality and efficiency of the identified parameters in the equation are verified. It is advisable to use the proposed equation to assess the inelastic displacement demand of Chinese highway bridges characterized by single-degree-of-freedom bilinear system, and the procedures to obtain the displacement spectra can also be utilized for other corresponding researches.
Muslim–queer encounters in Rio de Janeiro: Making sense of relational positionalities
Authors: Heil Tilmann
Published: June 2019

For recently arrived West African migrants in the metropolitan area of Rio de Janeiro, the virtual and street encounters with travesti sex workers and queer beach goers provoked questions of relative power and status as experienced from a social margin of local Brazilian society. Based on ethnographic fieldwork since 2014, I address the question of how my Muslim interlocutors’ encounter with queers facilitate a particular and partial reading of Brazilian social relations, their legal mediation and their individual and social valuations. Moving between queer, postcolonial, queer of color and Muslim queer scholarship, I situate the local encounters of Muslim West Africans and queer subjects to differentiate and transcend the global framework of homonationalism and queer necropolitics. Situational positionalities result from the interplay of multiple geographical and social locations that, in their contradictions and interdependencies, are characteristic of contemporary urban configurations.
Homemade Fenestrated Stent-Grafts for Complete Endovascular Repair of Aortic Arch Dissections
Authors: Canaud Ludovic , Ozdemir Baris Ata , Chassin-Trubert Lucien , Sfeir Julien , Alric Pierre , Gandet Thomas
Published: June 2019

Purpose: To evaluate outcomes of homemade fenestrated stent-grafts for complete endovascular aortic repair of aortic arch dissections. Materials and Methods: From July 2014 through September 2018, 35 patients (mean age 66±11 years; 25 men) underwent homemade fenestrated stent-graft repair of acute (n=16) or chronic (n=10) complicated type B aortic dissections (n=16) and dissecting aortic arch aneurysms subsequent to surgical treatment of acute type A dissections (n=9). Nineteen (54%) procedures were emergent. Results: Zone 2 single-fenestrated stent-grafts were used in 25 cases; the remaining 10 were double-fenestrated stent-grafts deployed in zone 0. Median time for stent-graft modification was 18 minutes (range 16–20). Technical success was achieved in all cases. An immediate distal type I endoleak was treated intraoperatively. Among the double-fenestrated stent-graft cases, the left subclavian artery fenestration could not be cannulated in 2 patients and revascularization was required. Partial coverage of the left common carotid artery necessitated placement of a covered stent in 3 cases. One (3%) patient had a stroke without permanent sequelae. Two type II endoleaks required additional covered stent placement at 5 and 7 days postoperatively, respectively. The 30-day mortality was 6% (2 patients with ruptured aortic arch aneurysm). During a mean follow-up of 17.6±13 months, there was no aortic rupture or retrograde dissection. One late type I endoleak was treated with additional proximal fenestrated stent-graft placement. One type II endoleak is currently under observation. One additional patient died (unrelated to the aorta); overall mortality was 9%. All supra-aortic trunks were patent. Conclusion: The use of homemade fenestrated stent-grafts for endovascular repair of aortic arch dissections is feasible and effective for total endovascular aortic arch repair. Durability concerns will need to be assessed in additional studies with long-term follow-up.
Test-Retest Reliability of Cognitive-Motor Interference Assessments in Walking With Various Task Complexities in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Veldkamp Renee , Romberg Anders , Hämäläinen Paivi , Giffroy Xavier , Moumdjian Lousin , Leone Carmela , Feys Peter , Baert Ilse
Published: June 2019

Background. Simultaneous execution of motor and cognitive tasks can result in worsened performance on one or both tasks, indicating cognitive-motor interference (CMI). A growing amount of research on CMI in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) is observed. However, psychometric properties of dual-task outcomes have been scarcely reported. Objective. To investigate the between-day test-retest reliability of the motor and cognitive dual-task costs (DTCs) during multiple CMI test conditions with various task complexities in pwMS and matched healthy controls (HCs). Methods. A total of 34 pwMS (Expanded Disability Status Scale score 3.0 ± 0.8) and 31 HCs were tested and retested on 3 single cognitive, 4 single motor, and 12 cognitive-motor dual tasks. Cognitive tasks included serial subtraction by 7, titrated digit span backward, and auditory vigilance. Motor tasks were walking at self-selected speed, over obstacles, crisscross, and while carrying a water-filled cup. Outcome measures were cognitive and motor DTC, calculated as percentage change of dual-task performance compared with single-task performance. Intraclass correlations (ICCs) and Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated as appropriate. Results. For DTCmotor of gait speed, ICCs ranged from 0.45 to 0.81 and Spearman correlations from 0.74 to 0.82. For DTCcognitive, ICCs ranged from −0.18 to 0.49 and Spearman correlations from −0.28 to 0.26. Reliability depended on the type of motor and cognitive task. Conclusion. Reliability of the DTCmotor was, overall, good, whereas that of the DTCcognitive was poor. The “walking” and “cup” dual-task conditions were the most reliable regardless of the integrated cognitive task.
Relationship of Metacognition and Insight to Neural Synchronization and Cognitive Function in Early Phase Psychosis
Authors: Leonhardt Bethany L. , Vohs Jenifer L. , Bartolomeo Lisa A. , Visco Andrew , Hetrick William P. , Bolbecker Amanda R. , Breier Alan , Lysaker Paul H. , O’Donnell Brian F.
Published: June 2019

Metacognition is the process of thinking about one’s own mental states. It involves a range of faculties that allow an individual to integrate information and form understanding of self and others, and use this understanding to respond to life challenges. Clinical insight is the awareness of one’s mental illness, its consequences, and the need for treatment. Persons with psychotic disorders show impaired metacognition and insight, but the neurobiological bases for these impairments are not well characterized. We hypothesized that metacognition and insight may depend on capacity of neural circuits to synchronize at gamma frequencies, as well as the integrity of underlying cognitive processes. In order to test these hypotheses, 17 adults with early phase psychosis were evaluated. Metacognition was assessed with the Metacognition Assessment Scale–Abbreviated, and insight was assessed with the Scale of Unawareness of Illness–Abbreviated. The auditory steady state response (ASSR) to gamma range stimulation (40 Hz) was used as an index of neural synchronization. Cognitive function was assessed using the Brief Assessment of Cognition in Schizophrenia. Increases in ASSR power were associated with poorer metacognition and insight. Higher cognitive performance was associated with higher levels of metacognitive function and insight. These findings suggest that altered neural synchronization and constituent cognitive processes affect both metacognition and insight in early phase psychosis and may offer targets for both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions.
Analysis of Polyphenols Composition and Antioxidant Activity Assessment of Chinese Dwarf Cherry (Cerasus humilis (Bge.) Sok.)
Authors: Wu Qian , Yuan Ru-Yu , Feng Cheng-Yong , Li Shan-Shan , Wang Liang-Sheng
Published: June 2019

The fruits of Chinese dwarf cherry ( Cerasus humilis (Bge.) Sok.), which is unique to China, can be canned and used to make products such as jam and wine. They also contain abundant bioactive compounds, including cinnamoylquinic acids and flavonoids. However, there has been no systematic study on the functional compounds in these fruits. In this study, the polyphenol compounds of 28 different genotypes of Chinese dwarf cherry in Liaoning province were systematically characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and HPLC coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A total of 31 polyphenols, including 6 anthocyanins, 7 cinnamoylquinic acids, 1 flavone, and 17 flavonols, were identified, and 23 of these compounds were detected in Chinese dwarf cherry for the first time. In addition, 4 genotypes showed higher total polyphenol content and antioxidant activities. It may be advantageous to use these 4 genotypes for commercial processing of Chinese dwarf cherry fruits into healthcare products. The results of this study will improve understanding of the chemical mechanism of polyphenols formation and lay the foundation for selective functional composition breeding in Chinese dwarf cherry.
Hopane-6α,16α,22-triol: A New Hopane Triterpenoid from the Lichen Parmotrema sancti-angelii
Authors: Sichaem Jirapast , Nguyen Huu-Hung , Duong Thuc-Huy
Published: June 2019

A new compound, namely hopane-6 α,16 α,22-triol (1), along with 8 known compounds 2 to 9, leucotylin (2), 16 β-acetoxyhopane-6 α,22-diol (3), 6 α-acetoxyhopane-16 β,22-diol (4), zeorin (5), 6 α-acetoxyhopane-22-ol (6), ergosterol peroxide (7), brassicasterol (8), and atranorin (9), was isolated from the lichen Parmotrema sancti-angelii. The structures of all the isolated compounds 1 to 9 were fully characterized using spectroscopic data, as well as comparison with the previous literature data. Moreover, compounds 2 and 4 were assessed for their in vitro cytotoxicity against 3 human cancer cell lines.
A Holothurian Triterpene Glycoside Holothurin A2 (= Echinoside A) Isolated From the Starfish Choriaster granulatus
Authors: Ivanchina Natalia V. , Kalinovsky Anatoly I. , Malyarenko Timofey V. , Kicha Alla A. , Dmitrenok Pavel S.
Published: June 2019

A triterpene glycoside identified as holothurin A2 (= echinoside A) was isolated from the extract of the tropical starfish Choriaster granulatus and identified by extensive nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry techniques. The fact of obtaining this typical for tropical sea cucumbers metabolite in starfish may be explained by feeding of C. granulatus on sea cucumbers of the family Holothuriidae that allows to use triterpene glycosides as food source markers in predators of sea cucumbers.
Efficacy and safety of simoctocog alfa (Nuwiq®) in patients with severe hemophilia A: a review of clinical trial data from the GENA program
Authors: Lissitchkov Toshko , Klukowska Anna , Pasi John , Kessler Craig M. , Klamroth Robert , Liesner Raina J. , Belyanskaya Larisa , Walter Olaf , Knaub Sigurd , Bichler Johann , Jansen Martina , Oldenburg Johannes
Published: June 2019

Simoctocog alfa (human-cl rhFVIII, Nuwiq®) is a 4th generation recombinant FVIII (rFVIII), without chemical modification or fusion with any other protein/fragment. Nuwiq® is produced in a human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK293F), which ensures human-specific post-translational protein processing. Nuwiq® was evaluated in seven prospective clinical studies in 201 adult and pediatric previously treated patients (PTPs) with severe hemophilia A. The NuProtect study in 110 previously untreated patients (PUPs) is ongoing. The mean half-life of Nuwiq® was 15.1–17.1 h in PTP studies with adults and adolescents, and 12.5 h in children aged 2–12 years. Clinical trials in PTPs demonstrated the efficacy and safety of Nuwiq® in the prevention and treatment of bleeds and as surgical prophylaxis. In the NuPreviq study of pharmacokinetic (PK)-guided personalized prophylaxis in 66 adult PTPs, 83% of patients had no spontaneous bleeds during 6 months of personalized prophylaxis and 57% were treated ⩽2 per week. No FVIII inhibitors were detected in PTPs after treatment with 43,267 injections and >80 million IU of Nuwiq®. Interim data for 66 PUPs with ⩾20 exposure days to Nuwiq® in NuProtect demonstrated a low cumulative high-titer inhibitor rate of 12.8% [actual incidence 12.1% (8/66)] and convincing efficacy and safety.
The effect of perirenal puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection: Two cases’ report
Authors: Li Bengen , Li Daobing , Liang Tiancai , Li Xiaoguang
Published: June 2019

The aim of this study was to discuss the clinical significance of perirenal puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection following surgery for upper urinary tract calculi. Two cases of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection following surgery for upper urinary tract calculi in 2017, and later received perirenal puncture and drainage of perirenal hematoma with urokinase treatment were selected. Puncture and drainage of perirenal hematoma with urokinase treatment were performed without the occurrence of severe complications such as sepsis, septic shock, or secondary bleeding. Both the renal morphology and functions were well restored. Puncture and drainage with urokinase treatment had definite efficacy in the treatment of perirenal hematoma complicated by infection.
Suture-bridge technique for tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament - a biomechanical comparison
Authors: Willinger Lukas , Lacheta Lucca , von Deimmling Constantin , Lang Jan , Imhoff Andreas , Forkel Philipp
Published: June 2019

Aims and Objectives:

Tibial posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures require surgical fixation in order to provide primary stability and adequate bone healing. Small fragments are common and comprise the risk to fracturing during screw fixation. Therefore, a suture-bridge configuration was developed to fixate small and multifragment fractures without the need of fragment drilling. The purpose of this study was to analyze the biomechanical properties of the suture-bridge technique compared to a well-established transtibial cortical suspension technique concerning cyclic elongation, stiffness and ultimate failure load. It was hypothesized that the suture bridge technique shows lower cyclic elongation and higher load to failure force compared to a cortical suspension button fixation.

Materials and Methods:

Nine fresh-frozen human cadaveric knees were biomechanically tested using an industrial testing machine (Zwick/Roell Amsler HC 10, Ulm). A standardized bony avulsion fracture (15 x 10 x 4 mm) of the tibial PCL insertion was generated. Two different techniques were used for fixation: A) 4x suture-bridge configuration (3 SwiveLock anchors, FiberTape, Arthrex Inc.) and B) 5x transtibial cortical suspension button fixation (FiberTape, Arthrex Inc). Cyclic loading was applied in 90° of flexion 500 times (10 to 100 N) to determine elongation, initial stiffness and load to failure. Students t-test for unpaired samples were used to calculate the difference of means (SPSS statistics software version 21). Statistical significance was set at a p value of < 0.05.

Results:

Suture-bridge technique resulted in a significant lower elongation (4.5 ± 2.9 mm) than transtibial cortical suspension button technique (11.9 ± 3.1 mm, p<0.01). Load of failure testing exhibited 319.8 ± 79.7 N in Group A and 232.6 ± 108.2 N in Group B (p=0.21). The initial stiffness at the beginning of cyclic loading was 45.0 ± 7.7 N/mm in Group A und 40.9 ± 10.0 N/mm in Group B (p=0.52).

Conclusion:

The novel PCL suture-bridge technique provides a significant lower construct elongation during cyclic loading and a trend towards higher load to failure in comparison to cortical suspension button fixation. As a clinical consequence, suture-bridge technique should be considered to fix small PCL avulsion fractures at the tibial insertion site.
Prospective validation of an indication algorithm for UKA
Authors: Savov Peter , Richter Timna , Calliess Tilman , Windhagen Henning , Karkosch Roman , Ettinger Max
Published: June 2019

Aims and Objectives:

Patients with isolated medial gonarthrosis benefit from a treatment with a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) compared to a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). They have a shorter rehabilitation time, better function, lower morbidity and a higher satisfaction rate. However, the revision rate is higher than in patients with TKA. Patient selection and the resulting incorrect indication may be one reason. Hamilton et al.’s research group prepared a radiological “decision aid” for the indication of a UKA. The aim of this study was to validate this uncomplicated diagnostic procedure based on intraoperative findings.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective study, 85 patients received routinely conventional x-rays. Strictly lateral and anterior-posterior view as well as varus/valgus stress x-rays were taken. Using Hamilton et al.’s “desiscion aid”, the x-ray images were preoperatively evaluated with regard to medial and lateral cartilage damage and the function of the anterior cruciate ligament. The cartilage damage of the individual tibial and femoral compartments was also scaled and documented intraoperatively. The results of the decision aid were validated with regard to the intraoperative findings. Indication-justifying cartilage damage was defined as focal complete cartilage loss. The sensitivity (SEN) and specificity (SPE) of decision aid with regard to cartilage damage in the medial and lateral compartments and the functionality of the anterior cruciate ligament were determined.

Results:

In the area of the medial compartment, decision aid has a SEN and PES of 79.4% and 82.4% respectively. The SEN and SPE for lateral compartments are 98.5% and 55.0%, respectively. Intact ACLs are correctly diagnosed at 94.7%. Insufficient ACLs at 33.3%.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that according to our findings, only about 2 out of 10 patients are not reliably diagnosed with medial gonarthrosis. However, about 2 out of 10 patients are diagnosed with medial gonarthrosis, which does not yet have to be treated with UKA. Furthermore, it could be shown that almost all patients with a completely laterally preserved cartilage are also recognized as such. However, every second patient with relevant cartilage damage is not radiologically identified. These data refer only to the radiological findings. Coupled with the patient’s medical history and clinic, the “Desicion Aid” is a very good aid for the correct indication for a UKA.
Positive and Negative Themes in Popular Video Games Based on Entertainment Software Review Board Ratings
Authors: Ghattas Fady , Reyes Lilia
Published: June 2019

Video games have become a major part of a child’s recreational time. The objective of this study was to determine whether or not the number of positive and negative themes in video games differ based on their Entertainment Software Review Board rating. Thirty of the most popular games in 2016 were reviewed and scored based on a rubric made a priori. Mature, Teen, and Everyone rated games did not show significant difference in the frequency of positive themes (3.7, 3.1, 3.2, respectively; P = .425). Mature and Teen games did not show significant difference in the frequency of negative themes (5.0, 4.0, respectively; P = .414), whereas Everyone games did have a significantly less number of negative themes than the Mature games (1.9, 5.0, respectively; P = <.001). Based on these data, parents should consider being more conscientious in buying games that are rated as T for Teen.
The Missionary Theology of D. T. Niles
Authors: Park Joon-Sik
Published: June 2019

D. T. Niles is best known for his often-quoted definition of evangelism, “one beggar telling another beggar where to get food.” Yet few seem to be aware of the scope of his missionary theology. His writings reflect a striking breadth and comprehensiveness of missional and ecumenical concerns and interests. Niles’s insights into Christian mission and unity still have much to contribute to a greater understanding of the nature and calling of the church. This article examines Niles’s view of the church as a missionary community, his theology of evangelism, and his commitment to the unity and indigenization of the church.
Ground Motion Models for the Horizontal Components of Arias Intensity (AI) and Cumulative Absolute Velocity (CAV) Using the NGA-West2 Database
Authors: Campbell Kenneth W. , Bozorgnia Yousef
Published: June 2019

We updated our Next Generation Attenuation (NGA)-West1 ground motion models (GMMs) for the horizontal components of Arias intensity (AI) and cumulative absolute velocity (CAV) using the functional form and NGA-West2 database we used to develop GMMs for peak-amplitude and peak-spectral ground motion intensity measures (GMIMs). Our results show that CAV has the best goodness-of-fit statistics of all the GMIMs we have evaluated up to this time. Its relatively small between- and within-event standard deviations confirm its superior predictability. On the other hand, AI has the highest standard deviation of any GMIM we have studied thus far, which is approximately double that of CAV. Although either CAV or AI or a combination of both have been shown to meet various performance metrics proposed in the context of performance-based earthquake engineering (PBEE), CAV's high level of predictability makes it superior to AI for use in engineering applications, such as PBEE, that involve probabilistic inference.
The Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Islet Function, Insulin Secretion, and Glucose Control
Authors: Douros Jonathan D , Tong Jenny , D’Alessio David A
Published: June 2019

Although bariatric surgery was developed primarily to treat morbid obesity, evidence from the earliest clinical observations to the most recent clinical trials consistently demonstrates that these procedures have substantial effects on glucose metabolism. A large base of research indicates that bariatric surgeries such as Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG), and biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) improve diabetes in most patients, with effects frequently evident prior to substantial weight reduction. There is now unequivocal evidence from randomized controlled trials that the efficacy of surgery is superior to intensive life-style/medical management. Despite advances in the clinical understanding and application of bariatric surgery, there remains only limited knowledge of the mechanisms by which these procedures confer such large changes to metabolic physiology. The improvement of insulin sensitivity that occurs with weight loss (e.g., the result of diet, illness, physical training) also accompanies bariatric surgery. However, there is evidence to support specific effects of surgery on insulin clearance, hepatic glucose production, and islet function. Understanding the mechanisms by which surgery affects these parameters of glucose regulation has the potential to identify new targets for therapeutic discovery. Studies to distinguish among bariatric surgeries on key parameters of glucose metabolism are limited but would be of considerable value to assist clinicians in selecting specific procedures and investigators in delineating the resulting physiology. This review is based on literature related to factors governing glucose metabolism and insulin secretion after the commonly used RYGB and VSG, and the less frequently used BPD and adjustable gastric banding.
Deliberately Stochastic
Authors: Cerreia-Vioglio Simone , Dillenberger David , Ortoleva Pietro , Riella Gil
Published: June 2019

We study stochastic choice as the outcome of deliberate randomization. We derive a general representation of a stochastic choice function where stochasticity allows the agent to achieve from any set the maximal element according to her underlying preferences over lotteries. We show that in this model stochasticity in choice captures complementarity between elements in the set, and thus necessarily implies violations of Regularity/Monotonicity, one of the most common properties of stochastic choice. This feature separates our approach from other models, e.g., Random Utility. (JEL D80, D81)
The Dynamic Effects of Personal and Corporate Income Tax Changes in the United States: Reply
Authors: Mertens Karel , Ravn Morten O.
Published: June 2019

In this reply to a comment by Jentsch and Lunsford, we show that the evidence for economic and statistically significant macroeconomic effects of tax changes in Mertens and Ravn (2013) remains present for a range of asymptotically valid inference methods. (JEL E23, E62, H24, H25, H31, H32)
A cascade of care for people with epilepsy: learning from “HIV/AIDS 90-90-90”
Authors: Mateen Farrah
Published: June 2019

Epilepsy is now more prevalent in many countries than HIV/AIDS. Building upon the successes of global policymaking for HIV/AIDS and creating a framework for countries and organizations to monitor progress in epilepsy care will help direct and justify much-needed novel programming. Given the clarity of the HIV/AIDS care continuum model and the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, I propose this same approach to the cascade of care could be used as a viable framework for people with epilepsy. In this model, the targets of success include (1) ensuring 90% of all people with epilepsy are aware of their diagnosis as a brain disorder, (2) starting 90% of people with epilepsy on quality controlled, appropriately chosen and well stocked antiepileptic drugs, and (3) achieving seizure freedom in 70% of those treated. At least 90% of all people with epilepsy must also be linked to and retained in appropriate care. Although the precise numbers may be debated, this cascade of care approach will assist in deconstructing the barriers to epilepsy care in populations better than the more familiar concept of the epilepsy treatment gap. These reflect concrete goals for health systems of epilepsy care that, if achieved, could lead to seizure freedom for the many people in lower income countries living with poorly controlled epilepsy.
Moving off the Map: How Knowledge of Organizational Operations Empowers and Alienates
Authors: Huising Ruthanne
Published: June 2019

This paper examines how employees become simultaneously empowered and alienated by detailed, holistic knowledge of the actual operations of their organization, drawing on an inductive analysis of the experiences of employees working on organizational change teams. As employees build and scrutinize process maps of their organization, they develop a new comprehension of the structure and operation of their organization. What they had perceived as purposively designed, relatively stable, and largely external is revealed to be continuously produced through social interaction. I trace how this altered comprehension of the organization’s functioning and logic changes employees' orientation to and place within the organization. Their central roles are revealed as less efficacious than imagined and, in fact, as reproducing the organization's inefficiencies. Alienated from their central operational roles, they voluntarily move to peripheral change roles from which they feel empowered to pursue organization-wide change. The paper offers two contributions. First, it identifies a new means through which central actors may become disembedded, that is, detailed comprehensive knowledge of the logic and operations of the surrounding social system. Second, the paper problematizes established insights about the relationship between social position and challenges to the status quo. Rather than a peripheral social location creating a desire to challenge the status quo, a desire to challenge the status quo may encourage central actors to choose a peripheral social location.
NPWT: a gate of hope for patients with diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Hajimohammadi Kazem , Makhdoomi Khadijeh , Zabihi Roghayeh Esmaili , Parizad Naser
Published: June 2019

Non-healing diabetic foot ulcers are a common and costly complication of type 2 diabetes and can result in lower extremity amputation. This case study concerns a 51-year-old man with a 17-year history of uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. He had developed a deep ulcer to the calcaneus of his left foot, which was 12x7 cm in size and infected with multi-drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. He was admitted to hospital for the non-healing diabetic foot ulcer and uncontrollable fever and was a candidate for amputation. He was treated with wound irrigation and debridement as well as negative-pressure wound therapy and antibiotic treatment. This strategy was effective and the wound size reduced progressively. The patient recovered well. Medical and wound care teams who deal with non-healing diabetic foot ulcers can benefit from a strategy of combination therapy.
Research roundup
Authors: Heggs Karen
Published: June 2019

Synopses of a selection of recently published research articles of relevance to palliative care
#Mulherpresente: existência e resistência em Os Sertões de Euclides da Cunha
Authors: Pietrani Anélia Montechiari
Published: June 2019

Este artigo tem o propósito de refletir, sob uma perspectiva literária, acerca da caracterização das mulheres presentes em Os sertões, de Euclides da Cunha, partindo do estudo de Mireille Dottin-Orsini (1996) sobre a representação da mulher fatal na arte da segunda metade do século XIX. Considerando que a construção das imagens de mulheres no livro de Euclides atravessa tanto o estilo gótico quanto o expressionismo, objetiva-se também discutir como a presença feminina na obra estabelece relação com o projeto do autor de escrever um livro vingador, de denúncia ao crime perpetrado pelo Exército brasileiro em Canudos, a fim de compreender que a existência das mulheres no arraial, tal como figuradas por Euclides em seus “quadros de guerra” (BUTLER, 2015), significa sua própria resistência.
Expedição terra: processo artístico inacabado
Authors: Lima George , Novaes Claudio Cledson
Published: June 2019

“Expedição Terra” é o título da obra que o artista visual Juraci Dórea apresenta na 3ª Bienal da Bahia (2014). Trata-se de uma expedição que refaz rotas de viagens do artista pelo Sertão da Bahia com o Projeto Terra, produção artística de sua autoria, a partir dos anos 80. Mais de trinta pessoas acompanham Juraci Dórea por cidades e povoados do sertão baiano. Partido de uma concepção contemporânea da arte como processo inacabado, conforme discute a pesquisadora Cecília de Almeida Salles, esta expedição dialoga com o Projeto Terra como um percurso criado em contínuo, seja com novas experiências plásticas sobre os materiais, seja num processo de auto citação em que o artista dá sequência ao seu trabalho sensível e intelectual através dos tempos e espaços.
Evaluation of a New Generation Automated Assay for 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Based on Competitive Protein Binding
Authors: Asif Maryam , Groboske Sarah E , Leung Edward K Y , Yeo Kiang-Teck J , van Wijk Xander M R
Published: June 2019

Background

The interest for vitamin D has exponentially increased testing demand for 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D]. Consequently, many laboratories are switching from LC-MS/MS methods to automated, high-throughput immunoassays. One of the major potential issues with these assays has been the lack of cross-reactivity with 25(OH)D2.

Methods

We have evaluated the Roche Elecsys vitamin D total II assay for accuracy by comparing 79 patient samples with LC-MS/MS. The cross-reactivity for 25(OH)D2 was evaluated by analyzing samples with high 25(OH)D2 separately and estimating 25(OH)D2 recovery, as well as by spiking of 25(OH)D2. The assay was further evaluated for precision, linearity, sample type, and common interferences.

Results

There was mostly good agreement between the Elecsys and LC-MS/MS assays (Deming regression: y = 0.95x + 0.70), with an overall bias of 2.3% (−0.84 ng/mL). However, there were 6 out of 79 (7.6%) discordant samples. The Deming regression for samples with high 25(OH)D2 compared to LC-MS/MS showed similar slope and intercept (y = 0.97x − 1.1). The average recovery of 25(OH)D2 for these samples was 90%. The initial precision studies were in general agreement with the package insert, but long-term clinical use showed higher-than-claimed imprecision (11.7%–14.4% at 12 ng/mL and 6.9%–7.6% at 27 ng/mL; claimed: 7.2% and 5.0%, respectively). We observed 1 falsely high result in plasma, an issue previously addressed by Roche in a medical device correction.

Conclusions

The analytical performance of the Roche Vitamin D assay was acceptable, and the assay had a good cross-reactivity for 25(OH)D2.
Quality of Work Life of Public School Nurses in the Philippines
Authors: Macairan Kaila Mae L. , Oducado Ryan Michael F , Minsalan Mika E , Recodo Risa G. , Abellar Gio Franco D.
Published: June 2019

Background: School nurses play a crucial role in the provision of comprehensive health services to the school population. A balanced quality of work life (QWL) with favorable conditions that support and uphold employee satisfaction is imperative for school nurses to maximize their provision of care for their clientele. Among the many nursing specialties, research among school nurses is not given much attention.Purpose: This study aimed to determine the QWL of public school nurses in the Philippines.Methods: This study utilized a descriptive correlational research design with 57 public school nurses as study participants. Self-reported data were gathered utilizing Walton’s QWL scale. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman–rank correlation coefficient. Results: Results indicated that public school nurses had high QWL (M=4.16). Among the eight subscales, opportunities at work (M=4.04) and social integration at work (M=4.03) had the lowest mean scores. There were no significant differences in the QWL according to sex (p=0.929), marital status (p=0.326), educational attainment (p=0.391) and length of work experience (p=0.059), while there was a significant relationship between age (p=0.005) and QWL of public school nurses.Conclusion: Public school nurses generally have a high QWL. Nevertheless, to further improve their QWL, it is recommended that public school nurses must be provided with more chances for continuous professional growth and opportunities for better social integration.