bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjuvant Chemotherapy with an Oral Fluoropyrimidine, S-1, following Reduced Radplat in Advanced Laryngeal Cancer
Authors: Wakisaka Naohiro , Kondo Satoru , Endo Kazuhira , Murono Shigeyuki , Yoshizaki Tomokazu
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Radiation Therapy Oncology Group study 91-11 found that in resectable advanced laryngeal cancer, the locoregional control rate achieved with reduced intra-arterial cisplatin and concurrent radiotherapy (RADPLAT) was comparable to that of a concurrent chemoradiotherapy arm, with reduced toxicities. However, distant metastases were more frequent. Our study retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and feasibility of adjuvant chemotherapy with S-1, an oral fluoropyrimidine, for distant metastases following reduced RADPLAT.

Methods

We analyzed 61 patients who were treated with reduced RADPLAT and achieved a complete response at the primary site. After the use of reduced RADPLAT, 24 patients were administered S-1 for 2 weeks followed by 1 week of rest, and the cycle was repeated for 6 months (S-1+ group). Thirty-seven patients were not administered S-1 (S-1-group).

Results

The hazard ratio for distant metastases in the S-1+ group was 0.114 (95% confidence interval, 0.015 to 0.881; p = 0.0374). There was a significant difference in disease-free survival in favor of the S-1+ group (p = 0.0455). Nineteen patients (79.2%) in the S-1+ group received S-1 according to the planned schedule and dose. Grade 3 toxicities were observed in 2 patients (8.3%), but there was no grade 4 event.

Conclusions

In resectable advanced laryngeal cancer, S-l adjuvant chemotherapy is an effective and feasible treatment option to control distant metastases following reduced RADPLAT.
Effects of Video-Based Group Instruction for Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Plavnick Joshua B. , Sam Ann M. , Hume Kara , Odom Samuel L.
Published: May 2017

Impairment in social interaction is a defining characteristic of individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This can be especially challenging for adolescents as demands of social interaction increase in difficulty. Despite the need for effective social skills instruction, there are few empirically validated procedures for teaching social skills to adolescents with ASD. The present investigation evaluated the effects of a social skills training package centered around video-based group instruction (VGI) on the acquisition of complex social skills by 4 adolescents with ASD. A multiple probe across behaviors design demonstrated the effectiveness of the 3-month training package for teaching new social skills. The results suggest VGI can be an effective and efficient approach for teaching complex social behavior to adolescents with ASD.
Additional Performance and Progress Validity Findings Targeting the Content-Focused Vocabulary Matching
Authors: Mooney Paul , McCarter Kevin S. , Schraven Jodie , Callicoatte Scarlet
Published: May 2017

The present article includes 2 studies that were designed to expand the literature on the technical features of vocabulary matching. The purpose of both studies was to extend validity research on the general outcome measure of content knowledge. In Study 1, direct comparisons of predictor-criterion correlations related to selected standardized and curriculum-based instruments were made with a diverse sample of 153 sixth-grade students from 3 middle schools. Among other findings, direct correlation comparisons indicated that the relation between vocabulary matching and the state accountability test was statistically significantly stronger than those between other curriculum-based measures. In Study 2, linear mixed modeling was used to compare growth rates for a sample of 224 sixth-graders from the same 3 schools. Participants were administered 25 weekly probes over the course of a school year. Findings demonstrated growth rates that were significantly different from a zero growth hypothesis and variable across learners and probe type. Research implications for vocabulary matching are discussed.
Conservative Syndrome: Individual and Cross-Cultural Differences
Authors: Stankov Lazar
Published: May 2017

This article summarizes findings based on the administration of a large number of psychological scales to participants from over 30 countries. The results suggest the existence of a Conservative Syndrome at both individual and country levels of analysis. There are three main groupings of constructs underlying this syndrome: Religiosity, Nastiness/Social Dominance, and Social Awareness/Morality. The evidence also suggests that countries can be divided into Conservative, In-Between and Liberal psychological continents. Individual differences are more pronounced than cross-cultural differences. Religiosity and Nastiness show the largest between-countries differences. Cross-cultural differences on measures of personality, morality, and values are comparatively small.
Effects of Nonfluencies on Speaker's Credibility in Newscast Settings
Authors: Engstrom Erika
Published: May 2017

80 subjects viewed or listened to either audiotaped or videotaped versions of a newscast in which the same announcer made varying numbers of speech errors. Ratings of the speaker's competence decreased as the number of such errors increased in newscasts in which the announcer was only heard. Increased numbers of speech errors did not significantly affect perceptions of the speaker's trustworthiness or dynamism or recall of content regardless of the newscast's medium.
Development of An Exercise Identity Scale
Authors: Anderson Dean F , Cychosz Charles M.
Published: May 2017

This study examined an instrument measuring the salience of an individual's identification with exercise as an integral part of the concept of self. The 9-item Exercise Identity Scale was given to 51 college students. Test-retest reliability (1 wk.) was. 93 and Cronbach alpha. 94. Assessment of the relationship between exercise identity scores and other variables related to participation in exercise documents evidence for validity. A measure of exercise identity may help identify persons least likely and most likely to maintain an exercise program and so may assist in the development of effective intervention strategies.
Positive Change in Self-Concept as a Function of Improved Performance in Sports
Authors: Salokun S. Olu
Published: May 2017

This study investigated the relationship between improvement in Total Positive Self-concept scores and increase in sports skills before and after training of 10 weeks for 45 minutes daily by 12- to 14-yr.-old junior high school and 16- to 18-yr.-old senior high school boys and girls. The 288 subjects were selected using a stratified (intact class) random technique. Subjects were randomly assigned to different sports, 96 to field-hockey and 96 to athletics (32 to discus, 32 to long jump, and 32 to sprints). 96 control subjects were randomly selected from one class of each age bracket. Analysis of covariance showed that the trained subjects scored significantly higher in total positive self. A positive correlation between gain in sports skill and increase in self-concept scores was noted for both boys and girls within each age group. Age and sex had no effect on this pattern. The result supports inclusion of success-oriented sports in the high school curriculum.
Modulations of the Optical Flow Did Not Induce Locomotor Pattern Fluctuations in Treadmill Walking in Man
Authors: Masson Guillaume , Pailhous Jean
Published: May 2017

We report an analysis of gait during human treadmill walking when visual information from the self-displacement velocity was modulated. Removing or sinusoidally modulating the frequency edge information in the optical flow did not induce significant changes in the walking velocity as analyzed using Fast Fourier Transform or in the spatiotemporal gait parameters. While low-frequency fluctuations in displacement speed increased, there was no significant change in locomotor cycle stability. When a constant frequency edge was provided, i.e., when a backward optical flow was added, stride length decreased as compared to the no-optical-flow condition and instantaneous fluctuations in stride amplitude increased. Temporal gait parameters did not change. These partial effects might be better explained by modifications in trunk balance. In humans, modulation of velocity information on self-motion cannot induce unintentional modulation of walking velocity and did not enhance fluctuations in the locomotor pattern. These results argue against the proprioceptive role of sagittal visual-motion information in control of stability of rhythmic leg movement, at least when other proprioceptive feedback sources are available.
Selective Attention Skills of Experienced Sonar Operators
Authors: Merrill Lex L. , Lewandowski Lawrence J. , Kobus David A.
Published: May 2017

This study investigated the influence of sonar training and experience on the selective attention of experienced and inexperienced operators. The Stroop task was selected as a measure of general selective attention, similar in certain task requirements (attentional allocation) to sonar operation. Across two samples (ns = 32 and 36) and four repeated test sessions groups did not differ significantly in speed or accuracy of Stroop performance. The data suggest that experienced operators do not seem to have developed extraordinary attentional skills and that any attentional skills developed through sonar experience do not generalize to other tasks such as the Stroop.
Perception of Humor in Cartoon Riddles by Adults with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Brown Ivan
Published: May 2017

Young adults with intellectual disability, 15 with IQs of 55 to 75 and 15 with IQs of 40 to 54, rated 12 cartoon riddles of six levels of difficulty. Mirth and comprehension were also scored. Analyses indicated that participants considered the jokes funny but there was a strong tendency to respond to the visual aspects of the jokes rather than to the auditory aspects.
Liking of Given Names and Nicknames and Their Relationship to Perceived Attractiveness and Sex-Appropriateness
Authors: Joubert Charles E.
Published: May 2017

College students rated their own first, middle, and nicknames as to lik-ability, attractiveness, and masculinity or femininity. They reported preferring their first names to their middle names and also found them more attractive. First names were better liked and found more attractive and sex-appropriate than were nicknames. Middle names were rated as more attractive and sex-appropriate than were nicknames. In general, persons who liked their first or middle names also rated them as more attractive and sex-appropriate. Liking of nicknames was related to their attractiveness.
Coping with the Dilemma of High Importance and Low Satisfaction
Authors: Borg Ingwer
Published: May 2017

The relation of judgments of satisfaction to those of importance was studied with 1000 subjects. Persons scoring as external on locus of control and high in anxiety react to a situation in which an object is seen as very important but also as very unsatisfactory by downgrading the object's importance.
Validity of Selected Predictors for Successful Wearing of Contact Lenses
Authors: Ong Jin , Fisher Mark
Published: May 2017

19 successful contact lens wearers were not distinguished from 4 unsuccessful wearers after the 2-week adapting period on any personality measures but were distinguished by persistent symptoms such as lid involvement and sensitivity.
Self-Perception of Fitness and Personality Traits
Authors: Delignières D. , Marcellini A. , Brisswalter J. , Legros P.
Published: May 2017

Our aim was to analyze how subjects perceive their own physical fitness. In Study 1 the 247 subjects assessed their own fitness, endurance, strength, flexibility, and body composition according to specific category scales. Analyses showed that self-perceived physical fitness was mainly related to perceived cardiovascular endurance. According to sex and age, strength, flexibility, and body composition could have a significant influence. The scores obtained on the five scales were highly correlated, suggesting they were overdetermined by a more general factor assimilated to physical self-worth. In Study 2 the 91 subjects completed the same five scales, the Spiel-berger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Coopersmith Self-esteem Inventory, and the Bem Sex-role Inventory. Results confirmed the hierarchical model of Fox and Corbin (1989) and showed that physical self-worth is related to self-esteem, anxiety, and masculinity.
An Asymmetry between the Wais Digit Symbol and Block Design Scores in Abstinent Alcoholics
Authors: Saarnio Pekka K.
Published: May 2017

Previous studies have indicated that alcoholics with low learning potential perform more poorly on the Finnish WAIS Block Design than on the Digit Symbol. These alcoholics had deficits in mediated functions but not in elementary functions. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between these subtests in a larger group of alcoholics. A total of 179 Finnish alcoholics took part. A clear asymmetry was found between the tests, the Block Design being poorer than the Digit Symbol. The results are discussed in terms of basic questions concerning the nature and course of impairment.
The General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale and Halstead Impairment Index: Comparison of Severity
Authors: Horton Macneill, , Sobelman Steven A.
Published: May 2017

To examine how the severity of brain damage is evaluated by a summary neuropsychological measure, the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale, 25 brain-damaged patients completed the Halstead-Reitan Neuropsychological Test Battery. From the test scores, both the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale and the Halstead Impairment Index were calculated for each patient. Hit rates for agreement on severity were 60%, i.e., 15/25. Examination of the data suggested the General Neuropsychological Deficit Scale better reflects severity of brain damage at greater severity.
A Turbo Pascal Program to Convert Icd-9Cm Coded Injury Diagnoses into Injury Severity Scores: Icdtoais
Authors: Kingma Johannes , Tenvergert Elisabeth , Werkman Hinke Anja , Ten Duis Henk Jan , Klasen Henk J.
Published: May 2017

Diagnoses of injuries as a result of trauma are commonly coded by means of the International Classification of Diseases (9th rev.) Clinical Modification (ICD-9CM). The Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) is frequently employed to assess the severity of injury per body region. The Injury Severity Score (ISS) is an over-all index or summary of the severity of injury. To compute one of these two types of scores the entire medical record of each patient must be examined. The program ICDTOAIS replaces the manual coding or translation between the two scores. The program converts the ICD-9CM coded diagnoses into AIS and ISS scores. The program also computes the maximum AIS (MAXAIS) per body region, enabling the researcher to assess the relative impact of the severity of trauma of different body regions in both morbidity and mortality studies. The program locates invalid ICD-9CM rubrics in the data file. ICDTOAIS may be employed as a program alone or as a procedure in database management systems (e.g., DBase III plus, DBase IV, or the different versions of FOXPRO). The program is written in Turbo Pascal, Version 6.
Müller-Lyer Illusion and Perception of Numerosity
Authors: Agostini Tiziano , Luccio Riccardo
Published: May 2017

Illusion of numerosity can be observed in many of the classical illusions of linear extent by replacing the uninterrupted lines with rows of dots. Using the method of constant stimuli both length and numerosity illusions move in the same direction, whereas using a magnitude-estimation method the two illusions move in opposite directions. Two experiments show that this inversion occurs also in the Müller-Lyer illusion.
Showicd: A Computer Program to Display Icd-9Cm Coded Injury Diagnoses and Their Corresponding Injury Severity Scores for a Particular Patient
Authors: Kingma Johannes , Tenvergert Elisabeth , Klasen Henk J.
Published: May 2017

SHOWICD is an interactive computer program designed to document severity of injury from the ICD-9CM coded injury diagnoses of a particular patient. Two severity-of-injury scores [the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and the Injury Severity Score (ISS)] are used. By employing the AIS scores, the severity of injury may be assessed per body region. The ISS provides an over-all index or summary score for severity of injury of the whole body. SHOWICD allows the user to analyze the effects of different types of injuries on the Injury Severity Score. SHOWICD may be employed either alone as a program or as a procedure in database management systems. The program is written in Turbo Pascal.
Suicide Rates in Native Americans by State and Size of Population
Authors: Lester David
Published: May 2017

In 1980, of 48 states, those with higher percentages of Native Americans had higher suicide rates for Native Americans.
Family Physicians' Perceptions of Barriers to Patients' Dietary Change
Authors: Soltesz Kay S. , Johnson Larry W. , Price James H. , Telljohann Susan K.
Published: May 2017

A national random sample of 229 family physicians responded to a survey which included perceived barriers to patients' dietary change. Physicians perceived food taste preference (71%) as a deterrent to patients' dietary change followed by knowledge of what dietary changes to make (48%) and cost of foods recommended (44%).
Laboratory-Documented Hallucination during Sleep-Onset Rem Period in a Normal Subject
Authors: Takeuchi Tomoka , Miyasita Akio , Inugami Maki , Sasaki Yuka , Fukuda Kazuhiko
Published: May 2017

During an experiment on nocturnal sleep interruption, we observed a unique case of hallucination without sleep paralysis during the sleep-onset REM period in a normal individual. We documented the polysomnogram recorded during this hallucination. The polysomnogram showed a mixed pattern of Stages REM and W, with muscle-tone inhibition, rapid eye movements (REMs), slow eye movements (SEMs), and abundant alpha EEG trains. The blocking of alpha EEG trains by REMs appeared to reflect visual processing similar to that which occurs during waking. This hallucination was distinct from ordinary sleep-onset mentation in that it included strong emotional components and in that the subject simultaneously experienced both hallucinatory mentation and reality contact. This hallucination may resemble sleep paralysis with regard to its physiological and psychological background, and the discrimination of these two phenomena may depend on the subject's own awareness of muscle-tone inhibition.
What is a Crucial Determinant in Anorthoscopic Perception?
Authors: Sohmiya Tamotsu , Sohmiya Kazuko
Published: May 2017

There are two important problems in anorthoscopic perception. The first is how a sequence of parts of a figure viewed through a slit is integrated into a whole. The second is how the distortion of an anorthoscopic image along the direction of its motion occurs. To answer the questions, two experiments and two demonstrations were performed by conceiving compound figures of one horizontal and one curvilinear component and a method which permits seeing anorthoscopic and ordinary images at the same time. From the results, the idea of anorthoscopic motion complementary to apparent motion is introduced as a crucial determinant that permits an integration of the parts into a perception of the whole. As regards the distortion of the percept we agree with Rock, et al.'s 1987 assumption but also consider that the distortion depends on the ratio of speed of anorthoscopic motion to real motion.
The Extrapolated Area Response: A Pathognomic Sign of Mania on the Rorschach?
Authors: Wagner Edwin E. , Rinn Roger C.
Published: May 2017

A pathognomic sign of mania, the Extrapolated Area Response (EAR), was described and explicated within the context of the TRAUT (Tripartite Classification of Autisms) system of categorizing Rorschach autisms. The EAR was interpreted as reflecting a person's tendency to expand his ambit beyond the confines of objective reality. Empirical validation is required.
Dreaming during Sleep Onset and Awakening
Authors: Cicogna Piercarla
Published: May 2017

The aim of the present work was to investigate the characteristics of the dreaming during the beginning and the end of sleep, both phases being transitional between different states of consciousness (wakefulness vs sleep and vice versa). The hypothesis of an adaptive function of the mental activity in the two sleep phases is put forward to ensure a continuity of self-experience in the passage from one state of vigilance to another. 40 dream reports collected at sleep onset and at spontaneous morning awakening, when analysed, supported the hypothesis. Independently of the physiological sleep stage during which dreaming occurs, the results seem to highlight similarities rather than differences in dreaming which occurs during sleep onset and morning awakening.
Proofreading Performance by Disabled Adults
Authors: Dittmar Mary Lynne , Woo John , Nocke Henry
Published: May 2017

The development of Optical Character Recognition and other data input technologies is providing disabled individuals access to occupations in electronic data processing. Many of these technologies require proofreading of previously captured data for prolonged periods of time. Research using other tasks requiring sustained attention has demonstrated steep performance decrements over time by many functionally impaired populations. Previous investigations have suggested that gains in proofreading performance may be achieved by increasing the error density in the material to be proofread. Thus, the present study was designed to assess the performance of a heterogeneous group of 12 disabled persons on a computerized proofreading task. Errors were embedded in alphanumeric code. The subjects included individuals with a broad range of physical or psychological impairments. After extensive training, all subjects participated in a 6-hr. proofreading task. The subjects corrected 96.6% of the errors embedded in 50,000 characters. Error detections were stable across six hours of proofreading. Implications for proofreading in applied settings are discussed.
Comparison of police stressors and negative psychosocial outcomes for officers in departments with and without community conflict directed toward them
Authors: Can S Hakan , Hendy Helen M , Camlibel D Alper
Published: May 2017

The present study offers a unique comparison of workplace stressors and negative psychosocial outcomes for police officers with and without community conflict directed toward their departments, using identical measures for each sample. Participants included 233 Turkish officers from Istanbul who were presently receiving community conflict targeting their department and 207 officers from the northeastern United States who were not experiencing such community conflict. The two samples differed in age, years of police service and household size, so these variables were used as covariates in ANCOVAs that compared the two samples for four police stressors (Critical Incidents, Departmental Politics, Daily Hassles, Work-Home Conflict) and three negative psychosocial outcomes (police partner conflict, romantic partner conflict, poor self-esteem). Results revealed that the Turkish officers reported less intense stressors from Critical Incidents than did the USA officers, perhaps because the atypical stressor of community conflict directed at their department reduced concerns about more typical Critical Incidents of police work (burglaries, car accidents, barricaded suspects). The impact of this community conflict may have also been evident in the increased Work-Home Conflict, increased police partner conflict and worse self-esteem reported by the Turkish police in comparison to the USA police. A limitation of the present study is that broader cultural differences between the Turkish and USA police samples could have explained differences in their stressors and negative outcomes. Future research could compare departments with and without community conflict, but matched for nationality, size and resources. Future research could also examine whether officer concerns associated with community conflict lead to reduced job performance and decisions to leave the police force.
Dating the Apocalypse to John, revisited
Authors: Slater Thomas B.
Published: May 2017

Slater argues that the dating of John’s Apocalypse has depended on the external witness of Irenaeus, writing over a century later. He begins with the internal evidence and arrives at a date between 68 and 70 CE. For example, he looks at the question of who is or is not an apostle in Rev 2:2. He argues that no one in the 90s was disputing who the apostles were. Rather, the debate was who carried on the apostolic tradition. Furthermore, he argues that this earlier date also helps to understand better some debates within early Christianity.
The aesthetic integrity of the book of Job: Job’s literary integrity
Authors: Priddy David W.
Published: May 2017

At present, the book of Job appears less as a single book and more as an assemblage of disparate materials. In this article, I assess the hermeneutical values of modern scholarship that sustain such a judgment and propose an alternative means of envisioning the literary integrity of the Joban drama. Imagery is not merely an artistic vehicle for abstract meaning but a poetic and cognitive device that links together dissonant speeches and genres. I demonstrate the significance of a hermeneutics of poetry by examining Eliphaz’s first speech and Job’s response, as well as other structurally troubling places. Thus, reappraising the function of imagery demonstrates a graphic coherence and, therefore, a greater intelligibility to the book of Job.
The oldest trick in the book: Narrative explorations of oppression and resistance in Exodus 1
Authors: Jones Barry A.
Published: May 2017

Philosophers and theorists have offered many explanations of the origins and nature of injustice. The distilled wisdom of victims of oppression, however, often find expression in indigenous literary forms such as folk songs and narratives. This article examines Exodus 1 as one such narrative reflection on the causes of oppression and the ways that suffering communities and their allies might resist regimes that employ fear, prejudice, and violence to exploit vulnerable populations for political gain.
A sermon for Pentecost: Acts 2:1–21, 1 Corinthians 12
Authors: Hartman Tracy
Published: May 2017

This sermon begins by asking readers to imagine the chaotic life-change that Pentecost brought for the original eye witnesses. It then traces the breath or spirit of God from Genesis, through Ezekiel and into the gospels, where the Spirit is manifested to a variety of early believers. Finally, modern hearers are asked to consider what a fresh manifestation of the Spirit might look like in their churches, and how God might use their gifts to be about a new work in the world today.
Ruth 1 and Genesis 1: Two sermons in a time of ending and beginning
Authors: Jackson Melissa
Published: May 2017

During a time of transition in their pastorate, a congregation invited me to offer two sermons focused on the theme of transition. For each sermon, those in attendance reflected on a piece of art that was interpretive of the focal text: (i) Marc Chagall’s Naomi and Her Daughters-in-Law with Ruth 1:1–14 and (ii) Barbara Hepworth’s Genesis with Gen 1:1–19. Two elements assisted attendees in the process of engaging with the art: I offered a series of prompts and questions for viewing the art, followed by a time of silent reflection. When art is both generative, it compels a response from viewers, and revelatory, it shows viewers something they did not previously see, it can be an aid to reflecting upon and interpreting biblical texts.
Time and space, Satan (Devil, Ancient Serpent, Deceiver, and Accuser), and Michael in Revelation
Authors: Canoy Robert W.
Published: May 2017

Understanding the theme of atonement as articulated in The Apocalypse (Revelation) requires cognizance of time and space, particularly when John describes the battle between Michael and the Great Dragon (alias Devil, Satan, Deceiver, and Accuser). After providing a summary investigation of these related biblical characters, this article emphasizes how the simultaneity of the events described in the heavenly and earthly visions of Rev 12:5–10 expresses the means of victory won by Jesus on the cross. The way in which the male Child wins the ultimate victory over evil is the same as the means of the Child’s ascendency to the throne—His death. The Dragon’s defeat by Michael in heavenly combat is one-and-the-same as the Satan’s defeat by the earthly self-sacrifice of the Child.
The solar properties of fabrics produced using different weft yarns
Authors: Yildirim Kenan , Kanber Asuman , Karahan Mehmet , Karahan Nevin
Published: May 2017

Woven fabric is composed of two yarns system, known as the weft and warp yarns. Each yarn system has an effect on the physical, performance, and optical properties of fabric. Any change in one or both yarn systems greatly alters the fabric properties. The solar and luminous properties of fabrics are also affected by altering the weft yarn or both yarn systems. This study investigates the effect of altering the weft yarn system on the solar and luminous properties of fabrics. The differences in the weft yarn in the fabrics were based on the weft yarn structure, including the yarn linear density, amount of twist on the yarn, yarn evenness, hairiness, spinning method, fiber composition of the yarn, and weft density of the fabric. The fabric luminous and solar properties were measured according to EN 14500 using an ultraviolet-visible-near-infrared (UV/VIS/NIR) test device and calculated from the EN 410 standard test method. According to a variance analysis, the weft density factor is shown to have an effect on the solar properties of the fabric, especially the UV transmittance properties of the fabric. Although non-parametric test results with a 95% confidence level show that the yarn structure does not influence the solar characteristics of the fabric, we show from the test results that the yarn structure influences the solar properties of the fabric. Yarn hairiness was the dominant factor for the IR and visible portions of the solar radiation spectra. In the UV region, the fiber composition factor was found to be important. The effect of the yarn linear density was similar to the effect of the weft density factor. The solar transmittance decreases and the reflectance increases when the number of weft yarns per unit length is increased and the yarn linear density in the Ne numbered system is decreased. Increasing the yarn hairiness decreases the transmittance in the IR portion of the solar spectra. The degree of influence that the yarn structure has on the solar properties (with the exception of the UV portion) of the fabric was dominated by the number of weft yarns per unit length. The transmittance properties of the fabric were more affected by altering the yarn structure than the reflectance and absorbance properties.
Preparation of hollow carbon submicro-fibers with controllable wall thicknesses from acrylonitrile copolymer
Authors: Ju Anqi , Hou Shengfei , Pan Yuexiu , Wang Yue , Zhu Yanan , Chen Huifang
Published: May 2017

Most of the hollow carbon submicro-fibers (HCSFs) reported today are made from polyacrylonitrile (PAN) homopolymer. The obtained HCSFs are fragile due to the poor stabilization and spinnability of PAN. In this study, a bifunctional comonomer, β-methylhydrogen itaconate (MHI), was synthesized to prepare poly(acrylonitrile- co-β-methylhydrogen itaconate) [P(AN- co-MHI)] copolymer, which was used as a precursor to produce HCSF by coaxial electrospinning. The stabilization of P(AN- co-MHI) was studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); the structure of HCSFs was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The stabilization of P(AN- co-MHI) has been improved significantly by MHI with lower cyclization temperature, broadened peak and lower activation energy, which is beneficial to producing high-performance HCSFs. HCSFs with fine and uniform structures were obtained after stabilization and carbonization; the diameter of the HCSFs shrinks due to the elimination of N and the extra H. The diameter and wall thickness of HCSFs can be controlled simply by the feeding ratio of P(AN- co-MHI) solution/styrene- co-acrylonitrile solution. The resultant HCSFs can be bent more than 280° without breaking, which has potential applications in lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells, and catalyst.
Preparation and characterization of calcium carboxymethyl cellulose/chitosan blend nonwovens for hemostatic agents
Authors: Kim Ga Hee , Im Jung Nam , Kim Tae Hee , Lee Gyu Dong , Youk Ji Ho , Doh Song Jun
Published: May 2017

Wet-laid blend nonwovens of calcium carboxymethyl cellulose fibers and chitosan powder were prepared as a new efficacious hemostatic agent, and their water absorption behavior, rupture strength in the dry and wet states, blood clotting properties, calcium ion release behavior, and cytotoxicity were investigated. The calcium carboxymethyl cellulose and chitosan nonwovens lost their structural integrity in the wet state due to water absorption and subsequent gelation, whereas the calcium carboxymethyl cellulose/chitosan blend nonwovens maintained their structural integrity. The formation of polyelectrolyte complexes between calcium carboxymethyl cellulose and chitosan after the absorption of water is believed to have contributed to the structural integrity in the wet state. In the in vitro blood clotting tests, the calcium carboxymethyl cellulose/chitosan blend nonwovens immediately absorbed blood and exhibited efficacious blood clotting characteristics. The calcium carboxymethyl cellulose/chitosan blend nonwovens were not cytotoxic. Considering both the structural stability in the wet state and blood clotting performance, calcium carboxymethyl cellulose/chitosan (7/3 w/w) blend nonwoven was found to be the most effective hemostatic agent of those assessed in this study, and has good potential for commercial application.
Coronary heart disease: outlook for Africa
Authors: Walker A R P , Sareli P
Published: May 2017

In Africa, coronary heart disease (CHD) is near absent in rural areas, and very uncommon in urban centres, where many Africans are in an advanced stage of transition. Among town dwellers intakes of food, especially fat, have risen and intakes of fibre-containing foods have fallen. Mean serum cholesterol level is almost double that of rural populations living traditionally. Obesity in females has risen enormously. Prevalence of hypertension exceeds that in the white population. The same applies to the practice of smoking in males, but not in females. The level of physical activity has fallen generally. With these increases in risk factors we can expect urban Africans to attain the high mortality rate for CHD now experienced by Afro-Americans. Prevention by urging reversion to previous lifestyle behaviour is a non-starter. However, as long as Africa remains impoverished, a major rise in CHD is unlikely.
The Fatal Disease of the Byzantine Emperor Andronicus III Palaeologus (1328–1341 AD)
Authors: Lascaratos J , Marketos S
Published: May 2017

The Byzantine Emperor Andronicus III Palaeologus (1328–1341 AD) died at age 45 from a disease the nature of which is unknown. However, light is thrown on this by the texts of the Byzantine historians John Cantacuzenus (who became Emperor under the name of John VI) and Nicephorus Gregoras, both of whom belonged to the immediate entourage of the Emperor. From their descriptions of the symptoms it appears that Andronicus suffered from malaria for 20 years (1321–1341). The coma that preceded the Emperor's death was probably a cerebral manifestation of chronic malaria.
Communication and Choice in Dying from Heart Disease
Authors: Mccarthy M , Addington Hall J , Ley M
Published: May 2017

In heart disease palliative care has received less attention than in cancer. In the Regional Study of Care for the Dying, carers of a random sample of deaths in 20 English health districts were interviewed about 10 months after the death. There were 675 respondents for patients dying with heart disease, and we report data on 600 deaths that were not sudden.

54% of patients died in hospital, 30% in their own home, 11% in a nursing or residential home, and 4% in other places. Half the patients were said to have known, or probably known, that they were likely to die; of these, 82% were said to have worked this out for themselves rather than been told by a doctor or nurse. More than one-third of patients (39%) died without an informal carer present. Respondents said that a quarter of the patients had wanted to die earlier: this desire was associated with older age and the number and severity of symptoms.

The study suggests the need for health services to give greater attention to palliative care for patients dying with heart disease.
Chronic Coronary Occlusions: Age, Morphology and Chance of Reopening
Authors: Vallbracht Christian , Unverdorben Martin , Kadel Christoph , Oster Hartmut , Otto Jens , Kober Gisbert , Kaltenbach Martin
Published: May 2017

In chronic coronary occlusions the chance of successful reopening by angioplasty can be judged from the age of the occlusion. Often, however, time since occlusion cannot be accurately assessed. Therefore we determined whether the chance of reopening can be predicted from angiographic morphology.

In cineangiograms from 60 consecutive patients with chronic coronary occlusions morphological details in at least two projections were evaluated in relation to the rate of success and the estimated age of occlusion. Morphological features associated with a higher rate of success (type A) were a clearcut proximal stump, absence of side branches at the site of occlusion, absence of bridging collaterals, and only slight filling of the distal part of the vessel. Features associated with a low success rate (type B) were absence of proximal stump, side branches at the site of occlusion, bridging collaterals, and rapid high-contrast filling of the distal part of the vessel.

48/60 (80%) of occlusions could be classified as type A or type B. The success rate was 17/21 (81 %) in type A versus 5/27 (18.5%) in type B (P < 0.0002). The estimated age of type B occlusions was higher than that of type A—medians 8 and 4 months (P < 0.002).

Thus in chronic coronary occlusions the likelihood of successful reopening can be judged in many patients from morphological features.
Risk Factors for Ischaemic Heart Disease in Patients with Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Authors: Lear J T , Neary R H , Jones P , Fitzgerald D A , English J S C
Published: May 2017

For reasons that are unclear, patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) have a lower than expected mortality rate from ischaemic heart disease. We have compared risk factors for ischaemic heart disease (lipids, fibrinogen levels, smoking history and social class) in 29 DH patients and 57 controls matched for age and sex.

Patients with DH had significantly lower cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoprotein B and fibrinogen and higher HDL2; they also smoked less and were of higher social class.

The mechanisms underlying these observations merit further investigation. Intestinal abnormalities or gluten-free diet may account for differences in lipid fractions, and the immunomodulatory properties of cigarette smoke may protect against the development of DH.
Complications of 1303 Central Venous Cannulations
Authors: Yilmazlar A , Bilgin H , Korfali G , Eren A , Özkan U
Published: May 2017

Central venous catheterization (CVC), now a common procedure, has several major complications. We assessed their incidence in a prospective study of 1303 cannulations done in the intensive care unit or operating theatre. Chest radiographs were obtained to verify proper catheter placement and to detect pneumothorax.

Complications were arterial puncture in 68 (5.2%) patients, arrhythmias in 21 (1.6%), cardiopulmonary arrest in 1 (0.1%), and pneumothorax in 5 (0.5%). The tip of the CVC was incorrectly located in 149 (11.2%).

The chest radiograph was a valuable method for detecting complications of central venous catheterization.
Evolutionary Psychiatry
Authors: Price John S
Published: May 2017

Preference is given to letters commenting on contributions published recently in the JRSM. They should not exceed 300 words and should be typed double spaced
Cholesterol Emboli Syndrome—Uncommon or Unrecognized?
Authors: Bell S P , Frankel A , Brown E A
Published: May 2017

Cholesterol emboli syndrome is a multisystem disorder that can be precipitated by angiographic procedures. We report 5 cases in which the presentation was renal failure. All patients had undergone angiography, but the temporal relation of the procedure to the clinical presentation was highly variable, the interval ranging from one day to four months. With the increase in diagnostic and therapeutic uses of angiography, the cholesterol emboli syndrome is likely to become more frequent and needs to be recognized.
Validation of Current Practice and a near Patient Testing Method for Oral-Anticoagulant Control in General Practice
Authors: Seamark David A , Backhouse Susan , Barber Paul , Hichens John , Lee Richard , Powell Roy
Published: May 2017

When oral anticoagulant control is monitored in general practice, venous blood samples are usually transported to a central laboratory for determination of international normalized ratio (INR). An alternative is near patient testing by a commercial method.

In a rural general practice 27 km from a central haematology laboratory, whole blood samples were drawn from patients receiving oral anticoagulants and analysed by three methods: after centrifugation, plasma separated and frozen in liquid nitrogen, transported to the laboratory, thawed and immediately analysed (control); courier transport of citrated sample to the laboratory for analysis (routine); near patient testing of whole blood sample (NPT). Maximum temperature achieved and time to analysis for routine samples were recorded.

306 complete sets of data were obtained. Comparison between the routine method and the control method revealed acceptable agreement. On multiple regression analysis, maximum temperature achieved did not contribute to differences observed but time to analysis of over 5 hours did make a significant contribution. Comparison between the NPT method and control method showed acceptable agreement, with persistent under-recording by the NPT method.

The routine method for INR determination was validated as robust and reproducible with the proviso that needle-to-analysis time should be kept below 5 hours. The NPT method was valid under conditions of normal general practice. Strict quality control of NPT methods is essential if performance is to be comparable with that of established methods.
Prevalence and Mechanisms of Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux in Adult Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: Ledson M J , Tran J , Walshaw M J
Published: May 2017

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) occurs frequently in children with cystic fibrosis (CF) but has not been studied in adult CF. We surveyed such symptoms by structured questionnaire in 50 adult CF patients (mean age 26 years, range 16–50; 24 male) and performed oesophageal manometry and 24-hour pH recording in 10 who had reflux symptoms (mean age 28 years, range 21–35; 8 men).

47 patients (94%) had upper gastrointestinal symptoms: 40 (80%) heartburn (27 worse when supine); 26 (52%) regurgitation; and 28 (56%) dyspepsia. At oesophageal manometry, lower oesophageal sphincter barrier pressure (LOSBP) was subnormal in 6 of the 10 patients and 3 had uncoordinated peristalsis in the mid oesophagus. 8 patients had raised DeMeester scores, indicating significant GOR. Those patients with a LOSBP <5mm Hg had a higher DeMeester score (mean 81.0, range 47.9–128.8) than the patients with a normal LOSBP (26.9, 8.7-56.5; p< 0.002).

These results show that adult CF patients have high rates of GOR symptoms, diminished LOSBP, and acid reflux.
Direct Ophthalmoscopy versus Slit Lamp Biomicroscopy in Diagnosis of the Acute Red Eye
Authors: Anderson D F , Sullivan P M , Luff A J , Elkington A R
Published: May 2017

The causes of red eye range from trivial to life-threatening, and many general practitioners are uncertain of their ability to diagnose them with the aid of an ophthalmoscope. We tested the hypothesis that, in the assessment of a patient with red eye, a doctor using a slit lamp biomicroscope would not differ in diagnostic accuracy from a doctor using a direct ophthalmoscope. A cross-over study was conducted in 98 patients newly attending an eye casualty department.

71% of diagnoses agreed exactly, and all potentially sight-threatening lesions were either diagnosed correctly or managed appropriately by doctors using an ophthalmoscope. We conclude that the initial diagnosis and management of patients with an acute red eye is not prejudiced by the lack of a slit lamp biomicroscope.
Digital Radiology in Skeletal Trauma: Assessment of Casualty Officers' Performance
Authors: Gillard J H , Hubbard C , Das R , Sherriff H
Published: May 2017

Radiographic images can now be produced without the requirement of film processing and development, and can be displayed rapidly on a computer monitor. We assessed junior doctors' performance in interpreting images from 25 patients being investigated for possible fracture and also compared the diagnostic abilities of casualty officers with those of radiology specialist registrars.

For interpretation of images viewed at a workstation or as filmed laser images, respectively, sensitivities were 75% and 78%, and specificities were 65% and 76%. These differences were not significant. There was a tendency for radiology specialist registrars to be less specific when reviewing images at a workstation.

The demonstration that there is no loss in diagnostic quality when casualty officers interpret fracture images in a purely digitally acquired and viewed format forms a robust basis for economic evaluation of the technology.
Contraceptive use in a rural general practice
Authors: Rowlands Sam
Published: May 2017

All women aged 20–49 in a general practice were sent a questionnaire about their reproductive health, and 72% responded. 78% of respondents were using a method of fertility control. More than a quarter of women were obtaining their contraceptive supplies (condoms especially) from non-medical outlets. Knowledge of the existence of emergency contraception was high (83%). The general practitioner (GP) was the most popular source of contraceptive supplies for those aged under 40 years and more than four-fifths of women said that they would rather turn to their GP than to other sources for future contraceptive advice.
Better drug history taking: an assessment of the DRUGS mnemonic
Authors: Hocking G , Kalyanaraman R , Demello W F
Published: May 2017

To improve drug history taking before anaesthesia, we have previously suggested a checklist with the mnemonic DRUGS (Doctor, Recreational, User, Gynaecological, Sensitivities). We have now tested this mnemonic in 1053 patients admitted for surgery, comparing the results with the information obtained in the original clerking.

Use of the mnemonic yielded additional information in 621 patients (59%). Drugs which had gone unrecorded in routine clerking were detected in 24% of patients on medication. Of 199 patients with high alcohol intake, this feature had been recorded in only 38 (19%). Unprescribed medicines, being taken by 158, had been noted in only 31 (20%). Of women taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, more than two-thirds had not given this information. Sensitivities had been recorded accurately in 100 patients but the mnemonic yielded relevant information in a further 85.

On this evidence, use of the simple DRUGS mnemonic improves drug history taking in anaesthetic practice.