bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Test of Alternative Theories of Survey Response Behaviour
Authors: Poon Patrick , Albaum Gerald , Evangelista Felicitas
Published: January 2018

This study examines the extent to which the theories of exchange, cognitive dissonance, self-perception and commitment/involvement, when used to design surveys, can influence potential respondents to participate in a survey. The results from an experiment involving a total of 403 subjects in Hong Kong and Australia expands what is known about the role played by theory by examining consumer responses to participation requests made on the basis of each theoretical framework. Specific results support the relatively high positive impact of two of the frameworks that has been reported in a study of research practitioners.
From Understanding Consumer Behaviour to Testing Category Strategies
Authors: Johnston Maureen , Felice Paula
Published: January 2018

The benefits of Category Management for a supplier organisation are mamimised when there is a purchase marketing strategy in place for the category. Purchase marketing is essentially using the store as a marketing medium, via tools such as position on shelf, pricing, communications and in-store promotions. This paper highlightsvarious research approaches used for category management and, using case material drawn from different geographic markets - from Brazil to Canada and the UK - discusses the dynamics of purchase marketing in different contexts. It describes how manufacturers can successfully develop an alternative strategy for managing their brands in the face of retailer pressure to price discount.
An Adaptation of Moderated E-mail Focus Groups to Assess the Potential for a New Online (Internet) Financial Services Offer in the UK
Authors: Cadman Liz , Adriaenssens Charles
Published: January 2018

This article describes a case study that used Moderated E-mail Groups (MEGs) to assess the potential for launching an online (Internet) share-trading platform in the UK. For reasons of client confidentiality it is not possible to reveal the name of the project sponsor, but it is possible to reveal that the company would be a new entrant in the market. This article details why MEGs were chosen and highlights the key advantages associated with this type of methodology. It also reveals key learning points (both positive and negative) gained from our experiences.
Conducting Electronic Focus Group Discussions among Chinese Respondents
Authors: Tse Alan C B
Published: January 2018

A study was conducted to determine the effectiveness of online focus group discussion as a data collection technique in a Chinese cultural context. Compared with traditional focus group discussion, the level of participation and the level of interaction are higher in an electronic focus group environment, which in turn lead to a higher level of satisfaction and openness experienced by participants.
Measuring the Effectiveness of Online Marketing
Authors: Goodwin Tom
Published: January 2018

Measuring online marketing effectiveness has become a key issue as marketers demand more evidence of the impact of their campaigns. However, their needs are currently only being partially met. This paper looks at the important, but hitherto under-developed role market research has to play in this area.
Using the Internet for Market Research: A Study of Private Trading on the Internet
Authors: Lee Matthew , Kent Ray
Published: January 2018

At first sight the Internet seems to offer the perfect vehicle for the conduct of market research. However, there are challenging methodological difficulties in using this medium and there is much yet to be learned. This paper reviews the potentials and pitfalls involved. It then presents the results of a study of private trading over the Internet and analyses approaches to the risks involved. Even a topic such as one involving a population of e-mail users, which should be ideal for research using the Internet, presents difficulties of sampling and self-selection that are difficult to overcome.
Dynamic optimization of synthesis, design and operation of marine energy systems
Authors: Tzortzis George J , Frangopoulos Christos A
Published: January 2018

In order to cover the overall energy demands of a vessel (e.g. mechanical, electrical and thermal), energy systems onboard ships are required to produce energy of several forms while at the same time being completely autonomous and cost effective. Optimization of the ship’s energy system, as a whole, in terms of synthesis, design and operation, is nowadays an unavoidable aspect of the marine industry. Furthermore, once time dependencies (e.g. time-varying loads and weather conditions) are introduced, the optimization problem is imperatively characterized as dynamic and its complexity increases dramatically. This study is focused on the dynamic optimization of synthesis, design and operation of a marine energy system. The general method, based on differential-algebraic equation formalism combined with mixed-integer nonlinear programming, along with solution procedures is presented first. The three optimization levels (synthesis, design and operation) are tackled simultaneously, with no decomposition. The superconfiguration approach is followed for the synthesis optimization, while time-varying operational requirements with respect to weather conditions and loads are considered. The presentation of the general theory is followed by application examples. A nominal case as described by a particular weather profile and values of parameters is considered, and the optimization problem with minimization of the present worth cost as an objective function is stated and solved. The effect of crucial parameters such as fuel and capital costs on the optimum solution is studied. Also, the problem is solved with a different weather profile, thus revealing the effect of weather on the optimum solution.
Damage localization under ambient excitations and non-stationary vibration signals by a new hybrid algorithm for feature extraction and multivariate distance correlation methods
Authors: Entezami Alireza , Shariatmadar Hashem
Published: January 2018

Ambient excitations applied to structures may lead to non-stationary vibration responses. In such circumstances, it may be difficult or improper to extract meaningful and significant damage features through methods that mainly rely on the stationarity of data. This article proposes a new hybrid algorithm for feature extraction as a combination of a new adaptive signal decomposition method called improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise and autoregressive moving average model. The major contribution of this algorithm is to address the important issue of feature extraction under ambient vibration and non-stationary signals. The improved complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise method is an improvement on the well-known ensemble empirical mode decomposition technique by removing redundant intrinsic mode functions. In addition, a novel automatic approach is presented to select the most relevant intrinsic mode functions to damage based on the intrinsic mode function energy level. Fitting an autoregressive moving average model to each selected intrinsic mode function, the model residuals are extracted as the damage-sensitive features. The main limitation is that such features are high-dimensional multivariate time series data, which may make a difficult and time-consuming decision-making process for damage localization. Multivariate distance correlation methods are introduced to cope with this drawback and locate structural damage using the multivariate residual sets of the normal and damaged conditions. The accuracy and robustness of the proposed methods are validated by a numerical shear-building model and an experimental benchmark structure. The effects of sampling frequency and time duration are evaluated as well. Results demonstrate the effectiveness and capability of the proposed methods to extract sufficient and reliable features, identify damage location, and quantify damage severity under ambient excitations and non-stationary signals.
Trialing the Community-Based Collaborative Action Research Framework: Supporting Rural Health Through a Community Health Needs Assessment
Authors: Van Gelderen Stacey A. , Krumwiede Kelly A. , Krumwiede Norma K. , Fenske Candace
Published: January 2018

Purpose. To describe the application of the Community-Based Collaborative Action Research (CBCAR) framework to uplift rural community voices while conducting a community health needs assessment (CHNA) by formulating a partnership between a critical access hospital, public health agency, school of nursing, and community members to improve societal health of this rural community. Method. This prospective explorative study used the CBCAR framework in the design, collection, and analysis of the data. The framework phases include: Partnership, dialogue, pattern recognition, dialogue on meaning of pattern, insight into action, and reflecting on evolving pattern. Discussion. Hospital and public health agency leaders learned how to use the CBCAR framework when conducting a CHNA to meet Affordable Care Act federal requirements. Closing the community engagement gap helped ensure all voices were heard, maximized intellectual capital, synergized efforts, improved communication by establishing trust, aligned resources with initiatives, and diminished power struggles regarding rural health. Conclusion. The CBCAR framework facilitated community engagement and promoted critical dialogue where community voices were heard. A sustainable community-based collaborative was formed. The project increased the critical access hospital’s capacity to conduct a CHNA. The collaborative’s decision-making capacity was challenged and ultimately strengthened as efforts continue to be made to address rural health.
Using Morphological Strategies to Help Adolescents Decode, Spell, and Comprehend Big Words in Science
Authors: Zoski Jennifer L. , Nellenbach Kristin M. , Erickson Karen A.
Published: January 2018

Adolescent students require strategies that are tailored to the specific linguistic demands of curricular vocabulary to support their decoding, spelling, and comprehension of novel big words encountered in texts. In this article, the authors describe a morphological instruction approach for helping students navigate big words in science. Reasons why big words in science are particularly challenging for many students are described, and guidelines for selecting and prioritizing high-utility science morphemes for targeted instruction with adolescent readers are provided. Specific strategies and examples are given, including a detailed example of a lesson that teaches students how and why to use morphological strategies to assist in their decoding and comprehension of unknown big words in science texts. Lists of high-utility science affixes are also provided.
Modularity research to guide MOSA implementation
Authors: Davendralingam Navindran , Guariniello Cesare , Tamaskar Shashank , DeLaurentis Daniel , Kerman Mitchell
Published: January 2018

The US Department of Defense’s acquisition strategy incorporates directives to encourage the use of open architectures and modular solutions through the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). The ways in which open standards are currently implemented, and programmatic guidance regarding the adoption of modular approaches, are inadequate, however, because of limitations on how modularity is objectively viewed to achieve its perceived benefits. Furthermore, current examples of implementations of modular concepts largely do not consider interdependencies at the enterprise level. This paper reviews ongoing research on modularity and openness, to synthesize best practices, community driven knowledge, and technical and programmatic catalysts that can better shape the appropriate adoption of MOSA. These items will be part of a comprehensive decision-making framework that can provide guidance to program managers in defense acquisition.
Influence of lipopolysaccharides on autophagy and inflammation in pancreatic islet cells of mice fed by high-fat diet
Authors: Jiang Hongwei , Ma Yujin , Fu Liujun , Wang Jie , Wang Linlei , Fan Menglin , Huang Ke , Zhang Yingyu , Peng Huifang
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to confirm whether chronic low-grade inflammation could induce autophagy and damage in islet cells. The high-fat diet (HF) and low-dose lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were used to simulate chronic inflammation. Islet function was observed, the expression of autophagy-related proteins and the activity of glucose synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) were detected, and the role of autophagy in islet injury induced by inflammation was explored. Higher blood glucose was observed in HF group and LPS group compared with control (C) group, and there was no significant difference between LPS group and LiCl group. The apoptotic pancreatic islet cells in the LPS group were higher than in the HF and C groups, and the in the LiCl group they were higher than in the C group and lower than in the LPS group. Compared with the C group, LC3II/I ratio in the HF group was increased ( P < 0.05), in LPS and LiCl groups it was lower than in the HF group, and in LiCl group it was higher than in the LPS group. There was no significant difference between HF group and C group with regard to the ratio of p-GSK-3β/GSK-3β, but in the LiCl group it was higher than in the LPS group. The results demonstrated that low-grade inflammation might cause autophagy flux impaired through activation of GSK-3β, and induced islet cells damage. LiCl could play a role in protecting islet cells through autophagy enhancement.
The Biology of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor and its Value as a Prognostic/predictive Factor
Authors: Tos A.P. Dei
Published: January 2018

Receptor tyrosine kinases play a major role in human carcinogenesis. Overexpression of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been associated with poor clinical outcome in several types of cancer. In principle, as with HER2, the EGFR status of a tumor should predict the likelihood of response to EGFR-targeted therapy. However, clinical data have failed to demonstrate a relationship between EGFR expression and response to the EGFR-targeted compounds cetuximab, gefitinib and erlotinib. Recently, patients reported to be EGFR negative have been shown to respond to cetuximab. Possible explanations include methodological failures or most likely heterogeneity and complexity of the mechanisms of EGFR-mediated molecular carcinogenesis. Immunohistochemistry is the most widely used method for measuring EGFR expression; however, its value is limited by lack of methodological standardization. Other approaches to measuring EGFR such as amplification assays are currently being introduced but need further testing before they can enter clinical practice. Mutational analysis seems also fruitful in predicting response to anti-EGFR small molecules. Further work is needed to identify how EGFR contributes to the carcinogenic and metastatic processes.
Clinical Management of Cutaneous Toxicity of Anti-EGFR Agents
Authors: Monti M. , Motta S.
Published: January 2018

Cutaneous toxicity is the most evident adverse effect of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors because of the specific role played by EGFR in skin biophysiology. Dermatological adverse reactions, mainly folliculocentric, have been widely reported in the literature. However, the mechanism of these reactions is not well defined and their management is still a matter of debate. In this paper keratinocyte differentiation, activation and pathways regulating gene expression are reviewed in order to improve the understanding of adverse skin reactions and obtain success in their management. The authors had the opportunity to treat skin reactions induced by cetuximab in a cohort of patients affected by metastatic colorectal carcinoma. The aims of this clinical approach were to control the signs and symptoms of skin toxicity in order to avoid delay in cancer therapy and to use nondrug agents for the treatment of drug-induced skin reactions.
Rationale and Clinical Results of Multi-target Treatments in Oncology
Authors: Sartore-Bianchi A. , Ricotta R. , Cerea G. , Maugeri M.R. , Siena S.
Published: January 2018

During the last 10 years, the concept of targeted biological therapy for the treatment of cancer has emerged. Targeted agents entered clinical practice only recently, and the first drugs with demonstrated clinical efficacy were mainly inhibitors of the ErbB family of receptors (i.e., EGFR and HER-2), either monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) or tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). After the proof of concept for the clinical efficacy and tolerability of these selective agents, it was conceived that most tumors will depend on more than one signaling pathway for their growth and survival. As a consequence, different strategies were pursued to inhibit multiple signaling pathways or multiple steps in the same pathway, either by the development of multi-targeted agents or the combination of single targeted drugs. The recent FDA and EMEA approval of sorafenib and sunitinib, both multi-targeted TKIs, marked the coming of age of this new generation of drugs. Now a whole new wave of multi-targeted compounds is moving into clinical trials, raising in the minds of investigators important questions about the best strategies to pursue in their use and many doubts about their differences and the seeming redundancies in the pipelines of pharmaceutical companies. This review will deal with the rationale underlying the multi-targeted approach and with the available clinical experience with multi-targeted agents, especially focusing on molecules with anti-EGFR mechanisms of action.
The Future of Anti-EGFR Therapy
Authors: D'Andrea M.R. , Gasparini G.
Published: January 2018

We report here on the state of our knowledge of the target - namely, the epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor - and the challenges related to the methods of determination of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and associated molecular pathways. A critical review of the anti-EGFR therapeutic strategies is also outlined. The chimeric anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody cetuximab has been approved for EGFR-expressing colorectal tumors in patients who progress after irinotecan-based chemotherapy in combination with irinotecan and in squamous cell head and neck carcinomas for patients with locally advanced disease in combination with radiation therapy or after failure of platinum-based chemotherapy in recurrent or metastatic disease (FDA). Cetuximab has the potential to provide an improvement of clinical outcome also in other indications and tumor types, particularly when used as first-line therapy combined with standard chemotherapy for metastatic disease or in the adjuvant setting. Possible strategies to improve the effectiveness of anti-EGFR agents are suggested and include (i) the use of predictive tools capable of making a more rational selection of patients; (ii) the development of standardized predictive biomarkers as surrogates for early monitoring of drug efficacy; and (iii) adequate study design, statistical analysis and proper end points of efficacy to be applied in future prospective trials.
A review of the in vitro and in vivo valved holding chamber (VHC) literature with a focus on the AeroChamber Plus Flow-Vu Anti-static VHC
Authors: Dissanayake Sanjeeva , Suggett Jason
Published: January 2018

Valved holding chambers (VHCs) reduce the need for inhalation-actuation coordination with pressurized metered dose inhalers (pMDIs), reduce oropharyngeal drug deposition and may improve lung deposition and clinical outcomes compared to pMDIs used alone. While VHCs are thus widely advocated for use in vulnerable patient groups within clinical and regulatory guidelines, there is less consensus as to whether the performance differences between different VHCs have clinical implications. This review evaluates the VHC literature, in particular the data pertaining to large- versus small-volume chambers, aerosol performance with a VHC adjunct versus a pMDI alone, charge dissipative/conducting versus non-conducting VHCs, and facemasks, to ascertain whether potentially meaningful differences between VHCs exist. Inconsistencies in the literature are examined and explained, and relationships between in vitro and in vivo data are discussed. A particular focus of this review is the AeroChamber Plus® Flow-Vu® Anti-static VHC, the most recent iteration of the AeroChamber VHC family.
Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit and Risk of Upper Extremity Injury in Overhead Athletes: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Keller Robert A. , De Giacomo Anthony F. , Neumann Julie A. , Limpisvasti Orr , Tibone James E.
Published: January 2018

Context:

Current perception dictates that glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) is a chronic adaptation that leads to an increased risk of pathologic conditions in the dominant shoulder or elbow of overhead athletes.

Objective:

To determine whether adaptations in glenohumeral range of motion in overhead athletes lead to injuries of the upper extremity, specifically in the shoulder or elbow.

Data Sources:

An electronic database search was performed using Medline, Embase, and SportDiscus from 1950 to 2016. The following keywords were used: GIRD, glenohumeral internal rotation deficit, glenohumeral deficit, shoulder, sport, injury, shoulder joint, baseball, football, racquet sports, volleyball, javelin, cricket, athletic injuries, handball, lacrosse, water polo, hammer throw, and throwing injury.

Study Selection:

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. Of those 17 studies, 10 included specific range of motion measurements required for inclusion in the meta-analysis.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Data Extraction:

Data on demographics and methodology as well as shoulder range of motion in various planes were collected when possible. The primary outcome of interest was upper extremity injury, specifically shoulder or elbow injury.

Results:

The systematic review included 2195 athletes (1889 males, 306 females) with a mean age of 20.8 years. Shoulders with GIRD favored an upper extremity injury, with a mean difference of 3.11° (95% CI, –0.13° to 6.36°; P = 0.06). Shoulder total range of motion suggested increased motion (mean difference, 2.97°) correlated with no injury ( P = 0.11), and less total motion (mean difference, 1.95°) favored injury ( P = 0.14). External rotational gain also favored injury, with a mean difference of 1.93° ( P = 0.07).

Conclusion:

The pooled results of this systematic review and meta-analysis did not reach statistical significance for any shoulder motion measurement and its correlation to shoulder or elbow injury. Results, though not reaching significance, favored injury in overhead athletes with GIRD, as well as rotational loss and external rotational gain.
A shifting paradigm: An evaluation of the pervasive effects of digital technologies on language expression, creativity, critical thinking, political discourse, and interactive processes of human communications
Authors: Cladis Andrea E
Published: January 2018

Technology is an all-encompassing aspect of life in the 21st century. Its existence has implications on how communication occurs, education is shaped, knowledge is spread, and ideas are formulated. There is a significant shift taking place in society as we become more accustomed to existing in a digital world. Digital natives, young people who have been born into a virtual reality, view the world differently, have a ‘digital footprint,’ process info-graphics speedily, but lack basic capacity for interpersonal interactions. They also present neurological differences from those who were exposed to digital technologies later in life. However, regardless of human capacity for technological understanding, digital technologies adversely impact our shared humanity and the ubiquitous nature of these technologies is quite frightening. As a high school English teacher, I experience the impact of digital technologies on learning and language expression first-hand through my work with digital natives. My concern is that because of student dependence on the rapid influx of digital technologies, they will not possess certain imperative faculties of the mind including the ability to embrace mystery, wonderment, and inquiry. There is also concern for the potential loss of creativity. The research that follows attempts to evaluate the impact – both positive and negative – on the domain of language expression including reading, writing, and faculties for imagination and critical thinking. Through thorough examination of neuroscience, trends in reading and writing, usage of electronic communications, social media and politics, levels of digital literacy, primary observations of high school students in a tech-dependent classroom, the evaluations that follow form a basis for theoretical assumptions about technology’s impact on language expression and education.
Testicular masses in congenital adrenal hyperplasia: Using 123I-MIBG scintigraphy to support the diagnosis of testicular adrenal rest tumours
Authors: Hempenstall Lucy Elizabeth , Kwok Michael , Siriwardana Amila Rohan , Wang Gary , Desai Devang , Gleeson Jacob
Published: January 2018

This case demonstrates the use of 123I-MIBG scintigraphy in the diagnosis of testicular adrenal rest tumours (TART) in an adult with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). TART are common in CAH patients, with MIBG scanning offering a new imaging modality to potentially help verify the diagnosis and prevent invasive investigation.

Level of evidence: Level 5 case report
Introduction to Special Issue on digital formations and Chinese experiences
Authors: Pan Zhongdang , Wei Lu , Yang Guobin
Published: January 2018

This is Part I of a special issue on digital formations in China. The five articles in this part study, respectively, the digital working class, social media propaganda, “grassroots” Internet finance, online swearing, and online political communication in a Hong Kong Chief Executive election.
Coping and Resilience in the Transition to Adulthood
Authors: Leipold Bernhard , Munz Marco , Michéle-Malkowsky Amy
Published: January 2018

Three general types of coping (problem-focused coping, social support-seeking, and meaning-focused coping) in the transition from adolescence to early adulthood are examined. Specifically, we investigated age differences, their interdependence, and their adaptive function in respect to academic work-related stress (resilience). The present study examined these issues in a cross-sectional assessment (1,608 pupils and students between 14 and 30 years). Problem-focused coping and seeking social support were positively correlated with age. Age-moderated analyses showed pronounced associations between problem-focused coping and support-seeking in adolescence, but stronger associations between problem- and meaning-focused coping in young adulthood. Seeking social support and meaning-focused coping moderated the negative correlation between subjective stress and well-being. Age differences and the adaptive role of coping are discussed within a developmental framework.
Detecting tourist attractions using geo-tagged photo clustering
Authors: Zhang Wenyuan , Tan Guoxin , Lei Ming , Guo Xiaomei , Sun Chuanming
Published: January 2018

Millions of geo-tagged photos are becoming available due to the wide spread of photo-sharing websites, which provide valuable information to mine spatial patterns from human activities. In this study, we present a simple and fast density-based spatial clustering algorithm to detect popular scenic spots using geo-tagged photos collected from Flickr. In this algorithm, Gaussian kernel is applied to estimate local density of data points, and a decision graph is used to obtain cluster centers easily. More than 289,000 geo-tagged photos located in five typical cities of China are downloaded as case studies, and data pre-processing such as duplicate removing is performed to improve the quality of clustering result. Finally, popular tourist attractions of each sample city are successfully detected with this algorithm, and our result is useful for recommending some interesting destinations which might not be on the list of tourist website or mobile guide applications. The proposed solution is robust with respect to different distributions of photos, and it is efficient by comparing with other popular clustering approaches.
A framework for the evaluation of living labs as boundary spanners in innovation
Authors: van Geenhuizen Marina
Published: January 2018

Living labs, as a methodology to enhance user-centric innovation, have large potentials in bringing inventions to the marketplace, but their performance can benefit more from evaluation. This article develops a novel framework for evaluation of living labs, including (1) a system approach providing an analytical view on living labs’ performance and results; (2) a focus on actor-complexity and boundary-spanning needs; (3) a set of questions concerning, e.g. absorption of user-feedback, satisfaction among actors, and openness and connecting with larger networks; (4) a list of key performance factors; and (5) a focus on participatory evaluation. The design of this evaluation framework rests on a comprehensive literature search and case studies representing different actor complexity, namely home-solutions in healthcare, reconstruction of large (multi)functional buildings, and multiple combinations of activity (university campuses). Key performance factors are found to be: an early involvement of adequately skilled users in multiple learning processes, including absorption of feedback, and a broader but balanced set of actors connecting with upscaling and acceptance in the market. Also, boundaries need to be better bridged by learning how to handle conflicts and deal with intermediation, while respecting shared goals and interests. Specifically, university living labs call for maintaining a solid relation with cities and their actors. Overall, an explicitly designed evaluation framework is a key part of the working plan of living labs. The results also indicate a need for stronger attention for boundary-spanning in evaluation, because living labs are increasingly applied in comprehensive multi-activity settings.
Development and Exclusion: Dalits in ‘Vibrant Gujarat’
Authors: Rasheed Arif
Published: January 2018

Gujarat is one of the fastest growing states of India in terms of economic growth paving the way for the grand idea of what is called as ‘Vibrant Gujarat’. Rising foreign investment, robust electricity generation and subsidized infrastructural facilities have placed this state on the priority list of businessmen and investment visionaries both from India and the world. But is this vibrant story same in terms of social development as well? Is social equality in consonance with economic growth or is it still different and dark? This article attempts to highlight some such issues in the backdrop of ‘Vibrant Gujarat’. It attempts to answer that the practice of discrimination in the area under study has serious implications in terms of violation of human rights in the vibrant Gujarat. It deals with the vacuum that exists between modern advancement, development and social exclusion in contemporary Gujarat. An attempt is made in the article to examine various nuances of social exclusion primarily based on the foundations of caste system in the context of economic development in this techno advance state of India. The districts selected for the purpose of study were Surendernagar, Gandhinagar and Patan. The time period for the study was 24 days and the numbers of villages visited were 32.
Oral Literature and Performing Arts of a Marginalized Community: The Chain of West Bengal
Authors: Adhikary Chanchal
Published: January 2018

In this article, an attempt has been made to collect and examine the folk and oral traditions of the Chain community of West Bengal in an ethnohistorical context. These included marriage songs, Gambhira songs, rhymes, lullabies, Jhumur, Alkap, riddles, etc. All have been collected through field work.
Vitrectomy in the Management of Vitreomacular Traction Syndrome
Authors: Michalewska Zofia , Nawrocki Jerzy
Published: January 2018

Purpose:

To estimate long-term results after vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling in vitreomacular traction syndrome (VMTS), as well as to estimate factors influencing final visual outcome.

Methods:

Medical records of all patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy for idiopathic VMTS from 2007 through 2015 were assessed. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography was performed preoperatively and at least 6 months after surgery. The mean horizontal and vertical diameters of the vitreomacular traction (VMT) were measured. The area of vitreomacular attachment was calculated.

Results:

Twenty-four eyes of 22 patients (mean age, 74 years) were included in this study. Mean visual acuity improved significantly from 0.26 Snellen (0.69 logMAR) to 0.39 Snellen (0.43 logMAR) in the mean of 29 months after surgery (7-90 months; median, 25 months; P = .02, paired t test). Visual acuity improved in 18 eyes, remained unchanged in 2 cases, and decreased postoperatively in 4 eyes. Multiple regression analysis did not reveal any factors significant for determining final visual acuity. However, when regrouping the patients according to the International Vitreomacular Traction Study Group, we observed that final visual acuities were statistically significantly better in eyes with focal vitreous detachment compared to broad vitreous detachment ( P = .04).

Conclusions:

Despite the fact that VMT is a 3-dimensional disease, the calculated area of attachment was not greater than the vertical diameter of attachment. According to the current study, the classification of VMT proposed by the VMT Study Group might be an important tool in predicting the final visual outcome after vitrectomy.
A symptom-based approach to treatment of psychosis in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Bell Victoria , Dunne Henry , Zacharia Tharun , Brooker Katrina , Shergill Sukhi
Published: January 2018

The optimal management of autism with psychosis remains unclear. This report describes a 22-year-old man with autism and psychosis who was referred to a tertiary-level specialist psychosis service, following a 6-year history of deterioration in mental health starting around the time of sitting GCSE examinations and an episode of bullying at school. We describe the individualised symptom-based approach that was effective in his treatment.

Declaration of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.
In-patient treatment in functional and sectorised care: patient satisfaction and length of stay
Authors: Bird V.J. , Giacco D. , Nicaise P. , Pfennig A. , Lasalvia A. , Welbel M. , Priebe S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Debate exists as to whether functional care, in which different psychiatrists are responsible for in- and out-patient care, leads to better in-patient treatment as compared with sectorised care, in which the same psychiatrist is responsible for care across settings.

Aims

To compare patient satisfaction with in-patient treatment and length of stay in functional and sectorised care.

Method

Patients with an ICD-10 diagnosis of psychotic, affective or anxiety/somatoform disorders consecutively admitted to an adult acute psychiatric ward in 23 hospitals across 11 National Health Service trusts in England were recruited. Patient satisfaction with in-patient care and length of stay (LoS) were compared (trial registration ISRCTN40256812).

Results

In total, 2709 patients were included, of which 1612 received functional and 1097 sectorised care. Patient satisfaction was significantly higher in sectorised care (β = 0.54, 95% CI 0.35–0.73, P<0.001). This difference remained significant when adjusting for locality and patient characteristics. LoS was 6.9 days shorter for patients in sectorised care (β = −6.89, 95% CI –11.76 to −2.02, P<0.001), but this difference did not remain significant when adjusting for clustering by hospital (β = −4.89, 95% CI –13.34 to 3.56, P = 0.26).

Conclusions

This is the first robust evidence that patient satisfaction with in-patient treatment is higher in sectorised care, whereas findings for LoS are less conclusive. If patient satisfaction is seen as a key criterion, sectorised care seems preferable.

Declarations of interest

None.
Cardiometabolic dysregulation and cognitive decline: potential role of depressive symptoms
Authors: Schmitz Norbert , Deschênes Sonya S. , Burns Rachel J. , Danna Sofia M. , Franco Oscar H. , Ikram M. Arfan , Kivimäki Mika , Singh-Manoux Archana , Tiemeier Henning
Published: February 2018

Background

Previous studies have examined associations of cardiometabolic factors with depression and cognition separately.

Aims

To determine if depressive symptoms mediate the association between cardiometabolic factors and cognitive decline in two community studies.

Method

Data for the analyses were drawn from the Rotterdam Study, the Netherlands (n = 2940) and the Whitehall II study, UK (n = 4469).

Results

Mediation analyses suggested a direct association between cardiometabolic factors and cognitive decline and an indirect association through depression: poorer cardiometabolic status at time 1 was associated with a higher level of depressive symptoms at time 2 (standardised regression coefficient 0.07 and 0.06, respectively), which, in turn, was associated with greater cognitive decline between time 2 and time 3 (standardised regression coefficient of −0.15 and −0.41, respectively).

Conclusions

Evidence from two independent cohort studies suggest an association between cardiometabolic dysregulation and cognitive decline and that depressive symptoms tend to precede this decline.

Declaration of interest

None.
Relationship Between Objective Financial Burden and the Health-Related Quality of Life and Mental Health of Patients With Cancer
Authors: Park Joohyun , Look Kevin A.
Published: January 2018

Purpose:

The high and increasing costs of cancer care can lead to financial burden for patients and their families. However, no study has specifically examined the association between objective measures of financial burden and the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and psychological health of patients with cancer.

Methods:

Data on patients with cancer were obtained from the 2010 to 2014 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. High financial burden was defined as a ratio of annual family out-of-pocket health care expenditures to family income exceeding either 10% or 20%. Multivariable linear regressions were used to estimate the relationship between high financial burden and patient HRQOL, nonspecific psychological distress, and depressed mood.

Results:

Of 6,799 patients with cancer, 15% and 6% experienced high financial burden exceeding 10% and 20% of family income, respectively. Compared with those without high financial burden, patients with cancer with high financial burden were more likely to have significantly lower HRQOL and a greater tendency toward nonspecific psychological distress. Higher levels of financial burden were associated with lower HRQOL, with a stronger relationship observed with physical health than with mental health and a greater tendency toward nonspecific psychological distress. Depressed mood was not significantly associated with high financial burden.

Conclusion:

High financial burden among patients with cancer was significantly associated with lower HRQOL and poor mental health. Along with efforts to reduce health care costs for cancer survivors, additional interventions are necessary to ensure the HRQOL and psychological health of cancer survivors.
Sex Difference of Angiotensin IV–, LVV-Hemorphin 7–, and Oxytocin-Induced Antiallodynia at the Spinal Level in Mice With Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Chow Lok-Hi , Chen Yuan-Hao , Lai Chun-Fu , Lin Tsu-You , Chen Ying-Jie , Kao Jen-Hsin , Huang Eagle Yi-Kung
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND:

We demonstrated previously that angiotensin IV (Ang IV) and LVV-hemorphin 7 (LVV-H7) act through the blockade of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase to decrease oxytocin degradation, thereby causing antihyperalgesia at the spinal level in rats. We determined that intrathecal oxytocin can induce significant antihyperalgesia in male rats with inflammation but not in female rats. Thus, we speculate that Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can induce antiallodynia, which could be of great therapeutic potential. Because the antihyperalgesia by using these peptides was with sex difference, their possible antiallodynia was examined in male and female mice for comparison. We investigated whether Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin produce antiallodynia at the spinal level in mice and whether this antiallodynia differs between the sexes.

METHODS:

Partial sciatic nerve ligation surgery was performed on adult male and female C57BL/6 mice from the same litter (25–30 g). The effects of intrathecal injections of Ang IV (25.8 nmol), LVV-H7 (27.2 nmol), and oxytocin (0.125 or 1.25 nmol) were assessed through the von Frey test 3 days after partial sciatic nerve ligation.

RESULTS:

Intrathecal injection of Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin all produced a potent antiallodynia in male mice. However, these antiallodynia effects were either extremely weak or absent in female mice at the same dose.

CONCLUSIONS:

Intrathecal Ang IV, LVV-H7, and oxytocin can all cause significant antiallodynia in male mice. The Ang IV-, LVV-H7-, and oxytocin-induced antiallodynia effects differed between the sexes at the spinal level in mice.
Summative Objective Structured Clinical Examination Assessment at the End of Anesthesia Residency for Perioperative Ultrasound
Authors: Mitchell John D. , Amir Rabia , Montealegre-Gallegos Mario , Mahmood Feroze , Shnider Marc , Mashari Azad , Yeh Lu , Bose Ruma , Wong Vanessa , Hess Philip , Amador Yannis , Jeganathan Jelliffe , Jones Stephanie B. , Matyal Robina
Published: January 2018

While standardized examinations and data from simulators and phantom models can assess knowledge and manual skills for ultrasound, an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) could assess workflow understanding. We recruited 8 experts to develop an OSCE to assess workflow understanding in perioperative ultrasound. The experts used a binary grading system to score 19 graduating anesthesia residents at 6 stations. Overall average performance was 86.2%, and 3 stations had an acceptable internal reliability (Kuder–Richardson formula 20 coefficient >0.5). After refinement, this OSCE can be combined with standardized examinations and data from simulators and phantom models to assess proficiency in ultrasound.
Comparison of Two Generations of ActiGraph Accelerometers: The CARDIA Study
Authors: WHITAKER KARA M. , PETTEE GABRIEL KELLEY , JACOBS DAVID R. , SIDNEY STEPHEN , STERNFELD BARBARA
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the comparability of the ActiGraph 7164 and wGT3X-BT wear time, count-based estimates, and average time per day in physical activity of different intensities.

Methods

We studied 87 Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) participants 48–60 yr of age who simultaneously wore the 7164 and wGT3X-BT accelerometers at the waist in 2015–2016, with wear time of ≥4 of 7 d, ≥10 h·d−1 for both monitors. Freedson cutpoints (counts per minute) were used to define sedentary (<100), light (100–1951), moderate (1952–5724), and vigorous activity (≥5725). Agreement was evaluated using paired-difference tests, intraclass correlation coefficients, and Bland–Altman plots. Given systematic differences in count-based estimates between monitors, a calibration formula applied to the wGT3X-BT values was obtained by linear regression.

Results

Total detected wear time minutes per day was nearly identical between the 7164 and the wGT3X-BT (881.5 ± 70.9 vs 880.3 ± 78.1, P = 0.72). The wGT3X-BT values were calibrated to the 7164 values by dividing counts by 1.088. After calibration, no differences were observed between the 7164 and the wGT3X-BT in total counts per day (310,184 ± 129,189 vs 307,085 ± 135,362, P = 0.48), average counts per min per day (349.5 ± 139.5 vs 346.5 ± 147.2, P = 0.54), sedentary (513.2 ± 93.6 vs 509.6 ± 98.6, P = 0.23), light (335.3 ± 81.5 vs 338.7 ± 81.1, P = 0.22), moderate (31.0 ± 21.9 vs 30.3 ± 23.4, P = 0.31), or moderate-to-vigorous minutes per day (33.1 ± 24.6 vs 32.0 ± 26.0, P = 0.13). A significant difference was observed for vigorous minutes per day (0.2 ± 1.0 vs 0.0 ± 0.3, P < 0.01); however, the absolute difference was marginal. Intraclass correlation coefficients showed excellent agreement for all measures (0.95–0.99).

Conclusions

After applying a calibration formula, the 7164 and wGT3X-BT were comparable for total wear time, count-based estimates, and average minutes per day in sedentary, light, moderate, and moderate-to-vigorous activity. Findings illustrate a novel methodological approach to facilitate accelerometer data harmonization.
Partial Vertical Integration, Ownership Structure, and Foreclosure
Authors: Levy Nadav , Spiegel Yossi , Gilo David
Published: January 2018

We study the incentive to acquire a partial stake in a vertically related firm and then foreclose rivals. We show that whether such partial acquisitions are profitable depends crucially on the initial ownership structure of the target firm and on corporate governance. (JEL D21, D43, G34, L13, L22)
Efi Avdela, «Νέοι εν κινδύνω»: Επιτήρηση, αναμόρφωση και δικαιοσύνη ανηλίκων μετά τον πόλεμο [“Youth at risk”: juvenile surveillance, reformation and justice after the war]
Authors: Papathanasiou Maria
Published: January 2018

Efi Avdela. «Νέοι εν κινδύνω»: Επιτήρηση, αναμόρφωση και δικαιοσύνη ανηλίκων μετά τον πόλεμο [“Youth at risk”: juvenile surveillance, reformation and justice after the war]. Athens: Polis, 2013. 521 pp.
Georg Iggers, 1926–2017
Authors: Wang Q. Edward
Published: January 2018

Georg Gerson Iggers, a world-renowned historiographer and cofounder of the International Commission for the History and Theory of Historiography, passed away in Buffalo, New York, on 26 November 2017. He was 90 years old.
Ordering time, nationalising the past: temporality, historiography and Brazil’s "formation"
Authors: De Oliveira Maria da Glória , Gontijo Rebeca , Franzini Fábio
Published: January 2018

This article presents an overview of historiography in Brazil from the 1840s to the 1950s and delimits the impasses, tensions and disputes in relation to two concomitant processes: the nationalisation of the past and the institutionalisation of historical research in the country. Our central reasoning is that, over the course of this period, the writing of history demanded multifaceted narrative and interpretative reconfigurations regarding the colonial past in order to portray the nation with its multiple temporalities and contrasts. These were perceived as structural traits of the present and explicative causes of Brazil’s alleged “backwardness” vis-à-vis the ideals of civilisation, contributing to a continuous postponement of future expectations regarding the full attainment of modernity. Not by chance, in the early decades of the twentieth century, the use of the formation concept emerged as a fundamental notion in the analysis and understanding of Brazilian history. Not only did it come as a kind of “response” to the problem of nationality but it also suggested that its construction was unfinished and uncertain in character.