bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and control of nonlinear systems using PieceWise Auto-Regressive eXogenous models
Authors: Lassoued Zeineb , Abderrahim Kamel
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we consider the problems of nonlinear system representation and control. In fact, we propose a solution based on PieceWise Auto-Regressive eXogenous (PWARX) models since these models are able to approximate any nonlinear behaviour with arbitrary precision. Moreover, the identification and control approaches of linear systems can be extended to these models because the parameters of each sub-model are linearly related to the output. The proposed solution is based on two steps. The first allows to represent the nonlinear system by a PWARX model using the identification approach. The second consists in designing a controller for each sub-model using the pole placement strategy. Simulation and experimental results are presented to illustrate the performance of the proposed approach.
The prognostic values of matrix metalloproteinases in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zeng Linchai , Qian Jie , Zhu Fangfang , Wu Fang , Zhao Hongqin , Zhu Haiyan
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate the prognostic significance of 23 matrix metalloproteinase ( MMP) genes in patients diagnosed with ovarian carcinoma.

Methods

The prognostic significance of 23 MMP genes in patients diagnosed with ovarian carcinoma was investigated using the Kaplan–Meier plotter (KM plotter), which uses the gene expression data and overall survival information of patients with ovarian cancer that were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus, Cancer Biomedical Informatics Grid and The Cancer Genome Atlas cancer datasets. The correlation between mRNA levels of individual MMPs (MMP2, MMP9, MMP10, MMP12, MMP13 and MMP25) and clinicopathological features (histological subtype, pathological grade and clinical stage) were investigated. The MMP protein level profiles in normal ovarian tissues and ovarian cancer tissues were examined using the Human Protein Atlas database.

Results

The results showed that high mRNA levels of MMP2 and MMP13 were associated with a worse overall survival in patients with ovarian cancer, whereas high mRNA levels of MMP9, MMP10, MMP12 and MMP25 were associated with a better overall survival. The protein levels of MMP2, MMP9, MMP10 and MMP25 in ovarian cancer tissues were elevated compared with normal ovarian tissues.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that MMPs can be a reliable prognostic biomarker for ovarian cancer.
Investable poverty: Social investment states and the geographies of poverty management
Authors: Baker Tom , Evans Joshua , Hennigan Brian
Published: May 2019

The management of poverty is undergoing significant changes with the rise of social investment states. In this context, we examine how governmental concern about the long-term public cost of poverty is increasingly modulating the selection, sequencing and targeting of interventions that seek to manage poverty. Using examples drawn from the management of homelessness in Anglo-American cities, we outline a research agenda related to the objectification, economisation, and subjectification of ‘investable poverty’. These emergent developments at the intersection of social investment and poverty management invite geographers and others to rethink where, when and how poverty management occurs.
Climate change and rapid ice melt: Suggestions from abrupt permafrost degradation and ice melting in an alpine ice cave
Authors: Colucci Renato R. , Guglielmin Mauro
Published: May 2019

Among the different elements of the mountain cryosphere, ice caves still represent the lesser known part of it. Here we present a seven-year-long record of air and rock temperature in a cave of the southeastern European Alps. We demonstrate how the presence of a permanent ice deposit in the cave is not only related to the net cooling effect of the air circulation, as it is well known, but also to the occurrence of relict permafrost. Through a detailed representation of temperature patterns inside the cave, both air and rock data show how after a period of perennially subzero (cryotic) conditions in the rock, ongoing anthropogenic climate warming is responsible for permafrost degradation despite the cooling effect of the air circulation in the cave. Data support the important role of cryotic conditions in the rock in preserving a permanent ice cave deposit in the present climate, even once the possible relict permafrost inherited from the past disappears. A thickness of 29–44 m of permafrost, possibly formed during the Little Ice Age, has now almost completely disappeared. The present abrupt ice degradation observed in this cave is further exacerbated by positive feedbacks related to warmer air circulation in the cave system.
Mechanistic-Based Parametric Model for Predicting Rolling Resistance of Concrete Pavements
Authors: Balzarini Danilo , Chatti Karim , Zaabar Imen , Butt Ali A. , Harvey John T.
Published: May 2019

The structural rolling resistance (SRR) is the component of rolling resistance that occurs because of the viscoelastic deformation of the pavement structure. In this paper, a simple model to calculate the energy dissipation as a result of the SRR on rigid pavements is developed for use in applications such as life cycle cost analysis and life cycle assessment. First, the energy dissipated by different vehicles was calculated on 12 concrete pavement sections using a fully mechanistic approach. Using the program DYNASLAB to simulate the vehicles moving along the pavement sections, the energy dissipation was calculated as the work done by the vehicle to overcome the slope seen by the wheels because of the pavement deformation. The results were then used to develop a simple and rapid-to-use model to predict the energy dissipation on any jointed concrete pavement. The model consists of a simple predictive function that can provide the value of the SRR energy dissipation given the mechanical properties of the pavement section (slab thickness and stiffness, modulus of subgrade reaction, subgrade damping coefficient, pavement geometry, and load transfer efficiency) and the loading conditions (speed and loads). The model was based on a sensitivity analysis that was used to select the optimal set of structural and environmental factors.
Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation of the Femoral Condyle Utilizing a Thin Plug Graft Technique
Authors: Tírico Luís E.P. , McCauley Julie C. , Pulido Pamela A. , Bugbee William D.
Published: May 2019

Background:

Previous studies showed clinical benefit and durable results of osteochondral allograft (OCA) transplantation for the treatment of femoral condyle lesions. However, the majority of these studies are difficult to interpret owing to the mixed results of different techniques and anatomic locations.

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcome of OCA transplantation with thin plug grafts for treatment of isolated femoral condyle osteochondral lesions.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study included 187 patients (200 knees) who underwent OCA transplantation for isolated osteochondral lesions on the femoral condyle between 1999 and 2014. For all cases, a thin plug technique was used with commercially available surgical instruments and the minimum amount of bone necessary for fixation. Evaluation included International Knee Documentation Committee score, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and patient satisfaction. Frequency and type of further surgery were assessed. Failure of the allograft was defined as further surgery involving removal of the allograft.

Results:

Mean follow-up was 6.7 years (range, 1.9-16.5 years). The mean age of patients at the time of surgery was 31 years, and 63% were male. The medial femoral condyle was affected in 69% of knees. A single thin plug graft was used in 145 knees (72.5%), and 2 grafts were used in 55 knees (27.5%). Mean allograft area was 6.3 cm2, and graft thickness was 6.5 mm (cartilage and bone combined). Further surgery was required for 52 knees (26%), of which 16 (8% of entire cohort) were defined as allograft failures (4 OCA revisions, 1 arthrosurface, 6 unicompartmental knee arthroplasties, and 5 total knee arthroplasties). Median time to failure was 4.9 years. Survivorship of the allograft was 95.6% at 5 years and 91.2% at 10 years. Among patients with grafts remaining in situ at latest follow-up, clinically meaningful improvement in pain, function, and quality of life was reported. Satisfaction was reported by 89% of patients.

Conclusion:

OCA transplantation with a thin plug graft technique is a valuable procedure for the treatment of femoral condyle osteochondral lesions, resulting in significant improvement in clinical scores, high patient satisfaction, and low reoperation and clinical failure rates.
Single-Cell Profiles and Clinically Useful Properties of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells of Adipose and Bone Marrow Origin
Authors: Zhou Wenyan , Lin Junxin , Zhao Kun , Jin Kaixiu , He Qiulin , Hu Yejun , Feng Gang , Cai Youzhi , Xia Chen , Liu Hua , Shen Weiliang , Hu Xueqing , Ouyang Hongwei
Published: May 2019

Background:

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be isolated from various tissues and can present themselves as a promising cell source for cell-based therapies. Although adipose- and bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells have already been used in a considerable number of clinical trials for osteoarthritis treatment, systematic analyses from single- to bulk-cell resolution as well as clinical outcomes of these 2 MSCs are still insufficient.

Purpose:

To explore the characteristics and differences of adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and bone marrow MSCs (BMSCs) at single- and bulk-cell levels, to study the clinical outcomes of these 2 cells on the treatment of osteoarthritis, and to provide potential guidance on the more precise clinical application of these MSCs.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study and meta-analysis.

Methods:

Same donor–derived ADSCs and BMSCs were isolated and cultured. Single- and bulk-cell assays were used to identify the characteristics of these 2 cells. Meta-analysis of clinical trials was done to compare the clinical therapeutic effects in osteoarthritis treatment with ADSCs and BMSCs.

Results:

Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis showed that the population of ADSCs showed lower transcriptomic heterogeneity when compared with BMSCs. Additionally, as compared with BMSCs, ADSCs were less dependent on mitochondrial respiration for energy production. Furthermore, ADSCs had a lower expression level of human leukocyte antigen class I antigen and higher immunosuppression capacity when compared with the BMSC population. Meta-analysis of current clinical trials of osteoarthritis treatment with MSCs consistently showed that ADSCs are more stable than BMSCs in their therapeutic effect.

Conclusion:

These results provide basic biological insights into human ADSCs and BMSCs at the single-cell resolution. Findings indicated that ADSCs may be a more controllable stem cell source, may be more adaptable to surviving in the hypoxic articular cavity niche, and may exhibit superiority in regulating inflammation. Based on the meta-analysis results of the different characteristics of ADSCs and BMSCs, ADSCs were implicated as being a better cell source for osteoarthritis treatment.

Clinical Relevance:

These results guide a more precise clinical application of adipose and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells.
Effect of random vibration-assisted vacuum processing on void development and interfacial properties in composites
Authors: Yang Xiaobo , Zhan Lihua , Jiang Chengbiao , Zhao Xing , Guan Chenglong
Published: May 2019

Voids and delamination are viewed as significant defects in the manufacturing process of carbon fiber-reinforced plastics structures and have been demonstrated to reduce the final performance of composites. Vibration is increasingly applied in new processing technologies for reducing void content and improving performance under low cure pressures. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of random vibration on the formation of voids during the curing process and the final interfacial properties of composite laminates. A 10 g random vibration was applied in the curing cycle, and a no-vibration cure cycle was designed as the experimental control group. The cure cycles were interrupted at pre-defined stages for each process to enable the in situ behavior of void content and growth of voids to be studied. Then the short-beam three-point bending test was employed to determine the interlaminar shear strength of composite samples. And the interlaminar cracks and fracture surfaces of tested specimens were captured by scanning electron microscopy. Besides, the interfacial shear strength of composite samples was measured by single-fiber push-in test. Compared with static group, the major benefits of the current research are that the growth of voids was impeded and void content was decreased obviously at each stage in composite samples produced by random vibration-assisted vacuum processing. In addition, the final interfacial properties were improved at the macro and micro levels due to adequate adhesion of the fiber–matrix interface when random vibration was introduced into the curing cycle.
The Role of Physical and Sexual Assaults on the Ability to Complete Work Responsibilities
Authors: Posick Chad , Jackson Dylan B. , Grubb Jonathan A.
Published: May 2019

Sexual and physical assaults have many serious and persistent negative impacts on individual health. There is now a considerable literature base identifying and discussing these health outcomes. Less is known about the mediating mechanisms that link these types of assault with later outcomes. This study examines the role of sexual and physical assaults in self-perceptions of individual health on missing or cutting back on work responsibilities. In particular, perceptions of both mental and physical health are investigated to further refine understanding of the different impacts of assault on survivor health and behavior. Using a sample of 3,791 adults aged 30 to 84 from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study, results of the analyses indicate that sexual and physical assaults do not have a direct effect on missing/cutting back on work responsibilities but do have an indirect effect through perceptions of health. The results can inform academic research, as important impacts of assault may be masked if mediating mechanisms are not investigated. In terms of policy, adults who have difficulty carrying out work responsibilities should be assessed for their overall health and survivors of violence should be offered health-related services following a victimization experience.
Alpha, Omega, and the Letters in Between: LGBTQI Conservative Christians Undoing Gender
Authors: Moon Dawne , Tobin Theresa W. , Sumerau J. E.
Published: May 2019

Sociologists studying gender have debated West and Zimmerman’s premise that “doing gender is unavoidable,” seeking to ascertain whether people can “undo” or only “redo” gender. While sociologists have been correct to focus on the interactional accomplishment of gender, they have neglected one of Garfinkel’s key insights about interaction: that people hold each other accountable to particular narratives. Neglecting the narrative aspect of doing—and undoing—gender impedes our ability to recognize processes of social change. Based on a qualitative study, we show how the movement for LGBTQI acceptance within U.S. conservative Protestant churches works to make gender not “omnirelevant” by challenging conservative “complementarity” narratives that posit two complementary, opposite sexes as a commandment preceding the Ten Commandments in time and importance. We explore this movement’s ambivalent relationship with homonormativity, highlight three ways this movement resists projecting binary gender narratives into scripture, and examine how some in this movement see the pursuit of social justice as a Christian mandate. The efforts of LGBTQI conservative Christians exemplify how reshaping sex/gender/sexual narratives can create possibilities for undoing gender.
Investigation of modified bitumen’s rheological properties with synthesized polyurethane by MDI-PPG reactive prepolymers
Authors: Hesami Saeid , Sadeghi Vahid , Azizi Amin
Published: May 2019

The main types of distresses in asphalt mixtures are rutting, fatigue, and thermal cracking at various performance temperatures. One of the beneficial approaches for improving their strength related to these failures is modifying the characteristics of bitumen by additives. The use of polymers in modifying bitumen properties is very common now. Thermoplastic elastomers and reactive polymers are a family of polymers that have a tremendous effect on the properties of bitumen. In this study, synthesized polyurethane (PU) with polypropylene glycol (PPG) functionalized by polymeric diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) as an additive in the bitumen modifier is studied. Penetration degree tests, softening point (R&B), rolling thin film oven, pressure aging vessel, dynamic shear rheometer, bending beam rheometer, and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were carried out on the modified samples. The results of these tests showed that the PU reduced the penetration degree and increased the softening point of bitumen, in which modified bitumen had higher stiffness and viscosity with a lower thermal susceptibility. It also increased bitumen resistance to permanent deformation to provide higher performance levels. In the intermediate temperature, bitumen modified with PU had a better performance and more resistant to fatigue compared to the base bitumen. The results of FTIR revealed modified PU bonds in the modified bitumen, which confirmed the formation of bonds in bitumen and determinant of chemical structure. By calculating penetration index represented the bitumen thermal susceptibility, the control bitumen had the lowest penetration indicator and bitumen sample with 7% PU had the maximum penetration indicator −0.62 and 0.91, respectively, and yielded the lowest performance temperature which was equal to −15.04°C.
Photoisomerization and thermal degradation kinetics of poly(ether–ester)s containing azomethine moiety in the main chain
Authors: Vini R , Murugavel SC
Published: May 2019

Poly(ether–ester)s containing azomethine group in the main chain were synthesized by solution polycondensation of 4,4′-bis(3-hydroxypropyloxy)- N-benzylidene aniline with adipoyl and terephthaloyl diacid chlorides. The synthesized poly(ether–ester)s were characterized by Fourier transform infrared and proton, and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques. Thermal properties were studied using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry. Thermal degradation kinetics of poly(ether–ester)s were characterized by TGA at various heating rates (5°C min−1, 10°C min−1, and 20°C min−1). The apparent activation energy for the degradation of both the polymers was determined by three different non-isothermal model-free kinetics methods (Friedmann, Flynn–Wall Ozawa, and Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose). The photoisomerization property was examined with ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, and the polymer PEE1 showed a rate of trans to cis isomerization ranging 10–20 s, whereas reverse process took around 100 min in solution. UV studies suggested that this material may be used in the field of rewritable applications.
High power density design for planetary gear transmission system
Authors: Wang Cheng
Published: May 2019

Planetary gear transmission system has been widely used in the field of aerospace equipment, automobiles, ships, etc. High power density design is an important development direction for transmission machinery, but there is a lack of systematic and deepening research in planetary gear transmission system field. Taken the most widely used 2K–H-type planetary gear transmission system as research object, a design method of high power density considering volume and efficiency is put forward. First, the transmission efficiency model of 2K–H-type planetary gear transmission system is built on the basis of calculation of single gear pair meshing efficiency instead of the look-up table method. Second, the volume model of 2K–H-type planetary gear transmission system is built according to the structure of gear. Finally, the smallest volume and the minimum power loss of 2K–H-type planetary gear transmission system are the target of optimization, and the linear-weighted combination method is used to construct target function. Taken a 2K–H-type planetary gear reducer in some machine tool as an example, the optimization is carried out. The results show that the power loss of optimized system is reduced by 11.42%, and the volume of system is reduced by 25.2%.
Mutualistic Coupling Between Vocabulary and Reasoning in Young Children: A Replication and Extension of the Study by Kievit et al. (2017)
Authors: Kievit Rogier A. , Hofman Abe D. , Nation Kate
Published: May 2019

Recent work suggests that the positive manifold of individual differences may arise, or be amplified, by a mechanism called mutualism. Kievit et al. (2017) showed that a latent change score implementation of the mutualism model outperformed alternative models, demonstrating positive reciprocal interactions between vocabulary and reasoning during development. Here, we replicated these findings in a cohort of children ( N = 227, 6–8 years old) and expanded the findings in three directions. First, a third wave of data was included, and the findings were robust to alternative model specifications. Second, a simulation demonstrated that data sets of similar magnitude and distributional properties could have, in principle, favored alternative models with close to 100% power. Third, we found support for the hypothesis that mutualistic-coupling effects are stronger and self-feedback parameters weaker in younger children. Together, these findings replicated the work of Kievit et al. (2017) and further support the hypothesis that mutualism supports cognitive development.
Records of Holocene climatic fluctuations and anthropogenic lead input in elemental distribution and radiogenic isotopes (Nd and Pb) in sediments of the Gulf of Lions (Southern France)
Authors: Nizou Jean , Dennielou Bernard , Révillon Sidonie , Bassetti Maria-Angela , Jouet Gwenael , Berné Serge , Nonnotte Philippe , Liorzou Céline
Published: May 2019

Marine mud belts represent potential continuous high-resolution climatic, environmental and anthropogenic archives. In this study, a geochemical record of the Gulf of Lions mud belt, which receives sediments from the Rhône watershed and to a lesser extent from the Languedoc region, is reported from Core KSGC-31. The effects of natural climatic changes and possible anthropogenic disturbances on Holocene sedimentation were ascertained by analysing sedimentation rates, chemical weathering (Al2O3/K2O) and sediment-source shifts (neodymium isotopic ratios; εNd). Measurements of elemental and isotopic lead were used to trace the source and determine the potential vectors of anthropogenic contaminations over the Holocene. High εNd values, recorded from 9000 to 3000 calibrated annum before present (cal. a BP) and around 1500 and 600 cal. a BP, are interpreted as an increase in sediment transport from the Alpine crystalline massifs to the sea induced by enhanced hydro-sedimentary conditions upstream. During the early and middle Holocene, low and stable weathering conditions were persistent, while the late Holocene was characterized by higher and more fluctuating weathering conditions. Sudden changes in the 206Pb/207Pb ratio observed during the Roman and Medieval periods suggest clear shifts in lead source from a natural Holocene background to late Holocene anthropogenic contaminations. Even though those shifts are coeval with atmospheric lead contaminations from Spain and Germany recorded in several sediment and ice archives, the local origin (the Cévennes) and the fluvial contamination is more likely in these cases. Those findings are contemporaneous with historical mining records in the Cévennes and point to an intensification of the merchant shipping.
Nepal’s Social Security Reforms, State-building and the Role of Trade Unions
Authors: Drucza Kristie
Published: May 2019

Trade unions play an important role in Nepal’s post-conflict economic development, but their influence is under-studied. Using a qualitative case study, this article examines the negotiations surrounding the development of Nepal’s Labour Law and Social Security Act. The evidence highlights the difficulty of bedding down a new welfare regime for workers in a country that does not have a strong, established, state-run welfare system and lacks robust government institutions. The article provides insights into the function of trade unions and other political entrepreneurs and their role in reforms. While unions know the ‘rules of the game’, they serve their paying member base in a stringent, democratic manner. They need little assistance from donors, as they understand how to play the game in a more astute manner than other groups excluded from traditional power. This does not mean that the trade union movement is a threat to building an inclusive state or that it aims for elite capture. Instead, it reveals how the power captured by the traditional upper caste is being slowly diffused. The negotiation strategies presented in the article are relevant for development partners engaging in welfare-related reforms in post-conflict and clientelistic states.
Back to Basics: CLABSI Reduction Through Implementation of an Oral Care and Hygiene Bundle
Authors: Kemp Gina , Hallbourg Melissa , Altounji Diane , Secola Rita
Published: May 2019

Children with cancer often undergo treatments that render them severely immunocompromised. Side effects of treatment place them at risk for developing oral mucositis (OM), which can potentially lead to infection and bacteremia. Staff nurses on an inpatient pediatric oncology unit noted inconsistent daily oral hygiene practices despite assessing OM consistently. Basic oral hygiene can reduce the severity of OM, and evidence-based bundled care has shown to increase consistency of practice. Based on findings and recommendations from the literature, an oral care and hygiene bundle was developed. The oral care bundle included a soft bristled toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, twice-daily brushing and sodium bicarbonate rinses, lip balm, and oral moisturizer. The hygiene component consisted of a daily bath or shower and daily linen changes. Education on the rationale and purpose for the use of an oral care and hygiene bundle was provided to the inpatient direct care staff prior to implementation on two inpatient oncology units. Audits were performed to measure the adherence of the oral care and hygiene bundle. Central line–associated bloodstream infections were measured in collaboration with the quality and infection prevention departments. Since the oral care and hygiene bundle was implemented, laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection rates decreased from 1.05 to 0.54 per 1,000 catheter days, while mucosal barrier injury rates decreased from 2.98 to 1.27 per 1,000 catheter days.
Morphology and Biomechanics of the Hip. Study II: The Hip at Risk
Authors: Specchiulli F. , Laforgia R. , Nitti L. , Pellicani N. , Savino G. , Mastrosimone N. , Solarino G.
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to establish the point at which a hip is at risk of developing osteoarthritis and the percentage of hips which run such a risk. 253 hips of 164 adults (average age 43) suffering from pathologies not involving the coxofemoral joint were examined. The most important data were: The WBS presented a greater obliquity than the medio-normal; the S. S. surface was narrower; all parameters presented considerable standard deviation. A hip was considered “at risk” when at least two parameters were outside the “normal” limits established in our previous study.
Bipolar Prosthetic Replacement for the Management of Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures
Authors: Surace A. , Mineo G. , Micale C. , Previtera A.M.
Published: May 2019

To promote early weight bearing and rapid rehabilitation, 55 patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures were treated with bipolar prosthetic replacement. If performed shortly after injury, this procedure allows the restoration of correct limb length and almost nullifies the classic complications of osteosynthesis as well as mortality during or after surgery.
Cementless Arthroprostheses: Case Result
Authors: Caniggia M. , Ferrata P. , Maniscalco P. , Bocchi L.
Published: May 2019

The Authors analyse the cases treated with cementless hip endo- and arthroprostheses from 1983 to the present at the Orthopaedic and Traumatology Department of the University of Siena, Italy.

They review, in chronological order, the cases treated with three different types of cementless hip prosthesis: the GCO, the PCA and the Omnifit prosthesis.
Congenital Hip Dislocation Relationship between Echography and Treatment: Our Experience
Authors: Albisetti W. , Carbone B. , Facchini R. , Rossetti F. , Serantoni S.
Published: May 2019

The Authors consider that hip echography plays a fundamental role in the diagnosis of congenital hip dislocation in the perinatal age group and that this methodic provides accurate information.

The absence of risk to the patient allows its utilization in the screening protocol. The aim of the research was not only to confirm echography utility in diagnosis, but also to plan and to promote its uniform use as a prognostic instrument in predicting and guiding a more accurate therapeutic approach.
Problems Seen after Olerud Acetabular Augmentation for Recurrent Dislocation of Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Cohen B. , Field R. E. , Muirhead-Allwood W.F.G. , Rushton N. , Scott J. E.
Published: May 2019

In 1985 Olerud and Karlstrom described a procedure for treating recurrent dislocation after total hip arthroplasty. We report our results, using this procedure, in nine patients and discuss the mechanisms of its failure in four cases.
Protrusio Acetabuli, an Unwelcome Result in Hip Hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Sanfeliu M. , Parra J.L. , Aparici J.M. , Fenollosa J.
Published: May 2019

We report 140 patients with subcapital fractures of the femur, treated by hemiarthroplasty. We used self locking Müller stems Trilock® with modular heads as well as Thompson prostheses, all being cemented. The self locking stems were of Ti-6A1-4V, the Thompsons of chrome-cobalt alloy and the modular heads of stainless steel. Having found 14% to develop protrusio acetabuli, we retrospectively studied the main variables: age, sex, presence or absence of osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, length of the prosthetic neck, disparity of diameters between the head of the femur and the prosthetic head, the type of hemiarthroplasty and the degree of independence of the patients. Patients in their seventies suffered protrusio more than those in their eighties (p=0.0004), as did those with an independent life, in contrast with dependent patients (p<0.05). The modular Muller Trilock® prostheses, with stainless steel heads, protruded in greater number than the Thompson chrome-cobalt type.
The X-Ray Magnification of the Hip for Preoperative Planning: A New Technique
Authors: Dallera A. , Del Prever E.M. Brach , Basile G. , Forti M. , Gallinaro P.
Published: May 2019

Precise pre-op planning is fundamental for surgical precision in fit and fill of uncemented prostheses, and reliable and comparable radiographs are necessary for the early diagnosis of loosening. All this can be obtained with a given X-ray magnification factor. The Authors prove that the routinely used methods are misleading and suggest a new technique to obtain a uniform and/or measurable magnification in the A.P. radiograms of the hip. The method gives accurate measurements within a few tenths of a millimetre. It is based on the knowledge of the femoral position in relation to the X-ray film, obtained with a lateral radiographic view, and on mathematical calculation to obtain the X-ray focus height and position. Also in the case of a flexed and externally rotated hip, the non-uniform longitudinal and transverse magnifications can be measured.
Clinical Results after 2-4 Years with a New MMA/DMA/IBMA Bone Cement Used for Fixation of the Femoral Stem
Authors: Steen Jensen J. , Bødtker S. , Kramhøft M. , Thomsen P.B. , Petersen D. , Nielsen K.
Published: May 2019

A series of 190 consecutive patients were followed 30 (24-44) months after fixation of the femoral stem with a new MMA/DMA/IBMA bone cement at total hip arthroplasty. Clinically, the patients performed as traditionally reported with cemented implants. Revision surgery for loosening had been undertaken in 2%, and a further 2% were assessed as loose. Polished Exeter® stems subsided 3+ mm in every fifth case, as could be expected, but any other radiological changes were rarely found. The short term results with this new product is considered acceptable.
A Molecular and Morphological Deep-Dive Into Metaplastic Breast Cancers
Authors: McCart Reed Amy E , Lakhani Sunil R
Published: May 2019

Metaplastic breast cancers (MBC) are relatively rare but account for significant global breast cancer mortality. Typically presenting without oestrogen and progesterone receptors or HER2 expression, these triple negative breast cancers are the archetypal ‘stem cell-like’ tumours that show a variety of metaplastic elements, including squamous, spindle, and chondroid. Given the vast heterogeneity in MBC by definition, large cohort studies are needed to draw conclusions. Together with our consortium colleagues, a cohort of 347 MBC was established, and a detailed morphological assessment made in an effort to understand the clinical relevance of the current diagnostic guidelines. Biomarker expression was investigated, and whole exome sequencing was performed. Herein, we provide an overview and contextualisation of the study.
Digital detox: Media resistance and the promise of authenticity
Authors: Syvertsen Trine , Enli Gunn
Published: May 2019

A fascination for the authentic is pervasive in contemporary culture. This article discusses texts recommending digital detox and how these accentuate dilemmas of what it means to be authentically human in the age of constant connectivity. Digital detox can be defined as a periodic disconnection from social or online media, or strategies to reduce digital media involvement. Digital detox stands in a long tradition of media resistance and resistance to new communication technologies, and non-use of media, but advocates balance and awareness more than permanent disconnection. Drawing on the analysis of 20 texts promoting digital detox: self-help literature, memoirs and corporate websites, the article discusses how problems with digital media are defined and recommended strategies to handle them. The analysis is structured around three dominant themes emerging in the material: descriptions of temporal overload and 24/7 connectivity, experiences of spatial intrusion and loss of contact with ‘real life’ and descriptions of damage to body and mind. A second research topic concerns how arguments for digital detox can be understood within a wider cultural and political context. Here, we argue that digital detox texts illuminate the rise of a self-regulation society, where individuals are expected to take personal responsibility for balancing risks and pressures, as well as representing a form of commodification of authenticity and nostalgia.
A contextual family tree visualization design
Authors: Borges José
Published: May 2019

With the increase in availability of online national archives and software to manage genealogical records, genealogy studies are growing in popularity. While conducting research, genealogists communicate their findings either in written narratives or in genealogical charts. In that context, visualization methods can be very effective for promoting the understanding of the intricacies of a family tree and the relations among its individuals. Most of the software designed for genealogy provides a collection of standard charts to plot family trees, despite having limited analysis capabilities in general. In addition, most of the research in family tree visualization designs have been focused on methods to represent very large trees in a restricted space. Herein, we propose the contextual family tree, a new visualization design for family trees that represents individuals and their spouses with enhanced details about their families’ context. The design was developed through an iterative prototype-evaluation design cycle. For illustrating the potential of our new visualization design, we used contextual family trees created from publicly available genealogical data communication files, showing that the design can be useful to provide a better understanding of the data and also for validating the consistency of the genealogical data.
Association of State and Trait Anxiety Between Patients Who Had Undergone Traumatic Amputation and Their Family Caregivers
Authors: Tsoulou Vasiliki , Karamolegou Eirini , Kourakos Michael , Vasilopoulos Georgios , Polikandrioti Maria
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this research was to explore the association between state and trait anxiety experienced by patients who had undergone traumatic amputation and their family caregivers. The sample studied consisted of 50 hospitalized patients who had undergone traumatic amputation and 50 family caregivers. The collected data included patients’ and caregivers’ characteristics and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory scores. Fifty percent of patients and caregivers scored below 50 and 47, respectively (median), in trait anxiety. In terms of state anxiety, at least 50% of patients and caregivers scored below 56 and 50.5, respectively. These values indicate moderate to high levels of the impact of amputation on the trait and state anxiety of amputees and their caregivers. A positive linear correlation was found between the trait and state anxiety of the patients as well as between the trait and state anxiety of caregivers, as expected (ρ = 0.915, P < .001, and ρ = 0.920, P < .001, respectively). A statistically significant positive correlation was also observed between state patient anxiety and state anxiety of caregivers (ρ = 0.239 and P = .039) and between trait patient anxiety and trait anxiety of caregivers (ρ = 0.322 and P = .030). More specifically, as the patient’s anxiety score (either trait temporary) increases, the score of the caregivers’ anxiety increases and vice versa. Nurses should be aware of the association between anxiety of amputees and caregivers and, therefore, work in multidisciplinary teams to maximize clinical outcomes for patients after amputation and their families.
Minimally Invasive Lobectomy Modality and Other Predictors of Conversion to Thoracotomy
Authors: Hendriksen Brandon S. , Hollenbeak Christopher S. , Taylor Matthew D. , Reed Michael F.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Minimally invasive approaches to lobectomy are increasing. Rates of conversion to thoracotomy are well reported but risk factors are poorly understood. This study aimed to determine the impact of surgical modality (video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery [VATS] and robotic) on conversion as well as to identify other risk factors for conversion.

Methods

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to identify patients who underwent minimally invasive lobectomy between 2010 and 2015. Patient characteristics were compared between VATS and robotic approaches using chi-squared tests and t-tests. Logistic regression models were used to control for covariates and identify factors associated with all minimally invasive conversion, VATS conversion, and robotic conversion. Propensity score matching was used to compare conversion rates of VATS and robotic lobectomy.

Results

The study included 51,723 patients with lung cancer who underwent minimally invasive lobectomy (VATS or robotic). Conversion was identified in 7,109 (7.3%) operations. The odds of VATS conversions were nearly twice that of robotic conversions (OR 1.94 P < 0.0001). After controlling for VATS and robotic patient imbalances with propensity score matching, there was a 5% difference in conversion rates (14% vs. 9%, P < 0.0001). Other predictors of minimally invasive conversion included community hospitals, tumor size 4.5 cm or greater, and an increasing Charlson comorbidity index ( P < 0.03 for all).

Conclusions

VATS is associated with nearly twice the odds of conversion as robotic lobectomy. Identifying specific risk factors for both VATS and robotic conversions may aid in appropriate modality selection and reduction of conversions.
Structural design and characteristic analysis for a 4-degree-of-freedom parallel manipulator
Authors: Chen Jiupeng , San Hongjun , Wu Xing , Chen Mingfang , He Wei
Published: May 2019

Previous studies on parallel mechanisms have been limited to symmetrical and semi-symmetrical parallel robots. However, there is relatively little research on asymmetrical parallel robot, especially on asymmetrical parallel robots with 4 degrees of freedom. Considering of disadvantages of modern technology, a new type of asymmetric parallel manipulator is proposed based on the theory and method of position and orientation characteristic equations in this article. First, the topology theory of parallel mechanism is expounded, the robot structure is described and the position and orientation characteristic set is calculated to obtain the degrees of freedom and the coupling degree of the parallel manipulator. Then the structure coupling–reducing theory is used to realize the structure decoupling of the robot. Second, the forward kinematics solution of the parallel robot is analyzed by ordered single-open-chain method, the inverse kinematics solution is solved by the algebraic method, and a numerical example is provided to confirm the correctness of the solution procedure. Finally, the workspace of the robot is analyzed by search method. Generally, the above theoretical research provides an important reference value for the industrial design and application of the parallel robot.
Japan oncology market overview: Current and future perspectives
Authors: Shibata Shoyo , Matsushita Maiko , Suzuki Takeshi , Ozaki Koken
Published: May 2019

The anti-cancer drug market is considered a growth market in Japan and across the world. Pharmaceutical companies have made every effort to deliver innovative drugs in this field, boosting market growth. In their research and development of anti-cancer drugs, these pharmaceuticals need to identify the optimal drug modalities in order to maximize profit, as the drugs are divided into two groups: cytotoxic-based drugs and target-based drugs. Although there have been numerous studies focused on the critical role of molecular target cancer therapy in anti-cancer drug development in Japan and elsewhere, few studies have quantitatively assessed the Japanese market using actual prescription data. This article provides an overview of the anti-cancer drug market in Japan as a foundation for formulating a global business strategy. It identifies key characteristics of the Japanese anti-cancer drug market and offers a prognosis of the market based on study findings.
Choroid plexus volume after stroke
Authors: Egorova Natalia , Gottlieb Elie , Khlif Mohamed Salah , Spratt Neil J , Brodtmann Amy
Published: May 2019

Background

Cerebrospinal fluid circulation is crucial for the functioning of the brain. Aging and brain pathologies such as Alzheimer’s disease have been associated with a change in the morphology of the ventricles and the choroid plexus. Despite the evidence from animal models that the cerebrospinal fluid system plays an important role in neuroinflammation and the restoration of the brain after ischemic brain injury, little is known about changes to the choroid plexus after stroke in humans.

Aims

Our goal was to characterize structural choroid plexus changes poststroke.

Methods

We used an automatic segmentation tool to estimate the volumes of choroid plexus and lateral ventricles in stroke and control participants at three time points (at baseline, 3 and 12 months) over the first year after stroke. We assessed group differences cross-sectionally at each time point and longitudinally. For stroke participants, we specifically differentiated between ipsi- and contra-lesional volumes. Statistical analyses were conducted for each region separately and included covariates such as age, sex, total intracranial volume, and years of education.

Results

We observed significantly larger choroid plexus volumes in stroke participants compared to controls in both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses. Choroid plexus volumes did not exhibit any change over the first year after stroke, with no difference between ipsi- and contra-lesional volumes. This was in contrast to the volume of lateral ventricles that we found to enlarge over time in all participants, with more accelerated expansion in stroke survivors ipsi-lesionally.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that chronic stages of stroke are characterized by larger choroid plexus volumes, but the enlargement likely takes place prior to or very early after the stroke incident.
Approaching the cultures of use: Netflix, disruption and the audience
Authors: Turner Graeme
Published: May 2019

This article draws on an empirical research project on cultural consumption in order to respond to particular concerns this project raised about our understanding of the current regimes of consumption for television, or what this article describes as the ‘cultures of use’. While there are rich literatures around many aspects of television consumption, this article argues that there is a gap in our direct knowledge of how individuals and households consume television, across platforms and devices, in domestic spaces. In order to fill that gap and to better understand how television consumption is embedded within people’s everyday lives, television studies may need not only to ask new kinds of questions through its research but also to adapt and modify some of the modes of audience research that marked the beginnings of television audience studies.
Syndactyly release: a comparison of skin graft versus graftless techniques in the same patient
Authors: Wang Angela A. , Hutchinson Douglas T.
Published: May 2019

Syndactyly release may be done by skin graft or graftless techniques. We prospectively examined bilateral syndactyly releases in the same patient at one operation. The grafted side was randomized and the contralateral side was done graftless. Fourteen patients had surgery at a mean age of 27 months (range 7–166). The mean follow-up was 52 months (range 6–111). The mean tourniquet time was 97 minutes (range 66–135) for graft and 84 minutes (55–120) for graftless. The mean finger abduction was 57° (32°–80°) for graft and 54° (38°–80°) for graftless. The mean web creep score was 1.2 (0–3) for graft and 2.1 (0–3) for graftless. The mean scar score was 1.9 (1–3) bilaterally. The mean parents’ visual analogue scale for graft cosmesis was 7.1 (5–9) and 6.2 (4.3–8) for graftless. The surgeon’s visual analogue scale for graft was 7.9 (6.4–9.5) and 6.2 (4–8.7) for graftless. The therapist’s visual analogue scale was 7.9 (6.5–10) and 6.4 (4.7–8) for graftless. Although there is a longer tourniquet time with grafting, there may be advantages in appearance and web creep.

Level of evidence: II