bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research of Rock Burst Risk Induced by Mining and Field Case in Anticlinal Control Area
Authors: Gu Shitan , Xiao Zhimin , Jiang Bangyou , Huang Ruifeng , Shan Peng
Published: October 2018

Stress concentration caused by tectonic stress and mining disturbance in coal mines induces a unique type of rock burst. No. 3201 working face controlled by an anticline structure in the Shandong mining area is used as the research background. The formation mechanism for anticlines is analyzed. Theoretical research shows that the bigger the tectonic couple is, the smaller the foundation stiffness, and the greater the bending degree and elastic strain energy of the coal will be. The distribution characteristics of abutment pressure and maximum principle stress in anticlinal control areas are analyzed using UDEC numerical software. The results show that rock bursts result from interactions between abutment pressure and residual tectonic stress. The “connection‐overlay‐separation” phenomenon of abutment pressure presents with working face advancement. Furthermore, the energy criterion for rock burst initiation is established based on the energy principle. Residual energy “E0 − EC” and rock burst danger characteristics during mining are discussed. Based on the simulation results, microseismic monitoring data for No. 3201 working face are analyzed, and the law of microseismic energy is consistent with the variation law for the residual energy “E0 − EC” at the peak of the simulated abutment pressure. The microseismic energy and frequency are higher during mining, increasing the risk of rock burst events. It can provide scientific basis for prevention and control of rock burst.
Apathy Is Correlated with Widespread Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) Impairment in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Femiano Cinzia , Trojsi Francesca , Caiazzo Giuseppina , Siciliano Mattia , Passaniti Carla , Russo Antonio , Bisecco Alvino , Cirillo Mario , Monsurrò Maria Rosaria , Esposito Fabrizio , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Santangelo Gabriella
Published: October 2018

Apathy is recognized as the most common behavioral change in several neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a multisystem neurodegenerative disorder. Particularly, apathy has been reported to be associated with poor ALS prognosis. However, the brain microstructural correlates of this behavioral symptom, reported as the most common in ALS, have not been completely elucidated. Using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS), here we aimed to quantify the correlation between brain microstructural damage and apathy scores in the early stages of ALS. Twenty-one consecutive ALS patients, in King’s clinical stage 1 or 2, and 19 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) underwent magnetic resonance imaging and neuropsychological examination. Between-group comparisons did not show any significant difference on cognitive and behavioral variables. When compared to HCs, ALS patients exhibited a decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) [p<.05, threshold-free cluster enhancement (TFCE) corrected] in the corpus callosum and in bilateral anterior cingulate cortices. Self-rated Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES) scores and self-rated apathy T-scores of the Frontal Systems Behavior (FrSBe) scale were found inversely correlated to FA measures (p<.05, TFCE corrected) in widespread white matter (WM) areas, including several associative fiber tracts in the frontal, temporal, and parietal lobes. These results point towards an early microstructural degeneration of brain areas biologically involved in cognition and behavior regulation in ALS. Moreover, the significant correlations between apathy and DTI measures in several brain areas may suggest that subtle WM changes may be associated with mild behavioral symptoms in ALS even in the absence of overt cognitive and behavioral impairment.
Adaptive Step-Size Control for Dynamic Relaxation Using Continuous Kinetic Damping
Authors: Jung Samuel , Kim Tae-Yun , Yoo Wan-Suk
Published: October 2018

Dynamic relaxation (DR) is a widely used numerical method to determine the static equilibrium of a dynamic system. However, it is difficult to apply conventional DR methods to nonlinear models because they require estimation of a stiffness matrix of the model. To resolve the forementioned problem, a new dynamic relaxation method using continuous kinetic damping (CKDR) was proposed in previous research. The CKDR method does not require any model parameters including the stiffness matrix, and it possesses absolute stability and a second-order convergence rate. However, the convergence rate is proportional to square of the step size, and this may result in a low convergence rate if the selected step size is excessively small. This problem leads to difficulties in the practical use of CKDR. Thus, an adaptive step-size method is proposed in this paper to control the convergence rate of CKDR. The proposed method estimates natural frequency of the model and determines adaptive step size. Static equilibrium simulations were performed for three different models to verify the method. The results revealed that the computational cost of CKDR with a variable step size was very efficient when compared to fixed step sizes and that the convergence rate was also controlled as intended. In addition, the lowest natural frequencies of models in static equilibrium were accurately estimated.
A Many-Objective Optimization Algorithm Based on Weight Vector Adjustment
Authors: Wang Yanjiao , Sun Xiaonan
Published: October 2018

In order to improve the convergence and distribution of a many-objective evolutionary algorithm, this paper proposes an improved NSGA-III algorithm based on weight vector adjustment (called NSGA-III-WA). First, an adaptive weight vector adjustment strategy is proposed to decompose the objective space into several subspaces. According to different subspace densities, the weight vector is sparse or densely adjusted to ensure the uniformity of the weight vector distribution on the Pareto front surface. Secondly, the evolutionary model that combines the new differential evolution strategy and genetic evolution strategy is proposed to generate new individuals and enhance the exploration ability of the weight vector in each subspace. The proposed algorithm is tested on the optimization problem of 3–15 objectives on the DTLZ standard test set and WFG test instances, and it is compared with the five algorithms with better effect. In this paper, the Whitney–Wilcoxon rank-sum test is used to test the significance of the algorithm. The experimental results show that NSGA-III-WA has a good effect in terms of convergence and distribution.
Detection of Common Bile Duct Stones in Mild Acute Biliary Pancreatitis Using Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Aranovich David , Zilbermints Veacheslav , Goldberg Natalia , Kaminsky Oleg
Published: October 2018

Background. All patients with mild acute biliary pancreatitis should undergo early cholecystectomy. Whether routine common bile duct (CBD) imaging should be employed before the surgical procedure in these patients is a matter of current controversy. The aim of this study was to investigate the rate of detection of CBD stones using magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) at different time intervals from admission.Methods. From January 1, 2011, through December 31, 2016, 72 patients with acute biliary pancreatitis underwent MRCP. Fifty-six (n=56) of them with mild biliary pancreatitis met the study criteria. The patients were divided into two groups. Group A did not have stones in the CBD (n=45), and Group B had stones in the CBD (n=11). The time from admission to MRCP was divided into several periods (day 1 through day 180), and the presence of the CBD stones on MRCP was weighted against remoteness from admission. Liver chemistry profiles were compared between the groups on admission and before the MRCP.Results. The cumulative rate of choledocholithiasis was 19.7% (Group B,n=11). Forty-five patients (Group A,n=45, 80.3%) did not have gallstones in the CBD. Eight patients with choledocholithiasis (8/56, 14.2%) were detected during the first 10 days from admission out of 27 patients. In patients who underwent MRCP between days 11 and 20, choledocholithiasis was found in two patients (2/56, 3.5%) and in one patient between days 21 and 30 (1/56, 1.8%). No stones were found in patients who underwent MRCP beyond 30 days from admission. Liver chemistry profiles did not show a significant difference in both groups. CBD dilatation was observed at presentation in 11 patients (n=11/56), 6 in Group A (6/45, 13.3%) and 5 in Group B (5/11, 45.5%) (p=0.016).Conclusions. Routine CBD evaluation should be encouraged after mild acute biliary pancreatitis. Early performance of MRCP gives high yield in selecting the patients for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) before cholecystectomy. A liver chemistry profile either on admission or before MRCP cannot predict the presence of CBD stones.
A Granulocyte-Specific Protein S100A12 as a Potential Prognostic Factor Affecting Aggressiveness of Therapy in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: Orczyk Krzysztof , Smolewska Elzbieta
Published: October 2018

Background. Defining new prognostic biomarkers has become one of the most promising perspectives for the long-term care of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). The new efficient indicators of disease activity and potential response to treatment are crucial in establishing new therapeutic plans in accordance with the “treat to target” strategy. One of the most studied proteins is called S100A12, which is an alarmin specific for granulocytes, considered as a marker of their activity. Materials and Methods. Study involved 80 patients diagnosed with JIA. Children with systemic subtype were not included in the study. In 53 cases, blood samples were obtained in two time points. Results from the study group were compared to 29 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals. Results. Serum S100A12 levels were higher in JIA than in healthy controls at the study baseline (11.67 ± 6.59 vs. 6.01 ± 2.33 ng/ml). There were no significant differences in S100A12 values between assessed subtypes of JIA. The highest concentrations were observed in patients within a disease flare. S100A12 levels were not dependent from using glucocorticosteroids. The studied protein appeared to be an efficient biomarker for JIA patients: 100% specificity as a diagnostic marker (cut-off level: 10.73 ng/ml) and 100% sensitivity as an indicator of exacerbations within a 3-month observation (cut-off level: 5.48 ng/ml). Conclusions. S100A12 may become an important factor influencing decisions on aggressiveness of JIA therapy. Further elaboration on the clinical algorithm is necessary for that protein to be included in everyday practice.
CSF-S100B Is a Potential Candidate Biomarker for Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Wei Yuzhen , Chang Haoxiao , Li Xindi , Du Li , Xu Wangshu , Cong Hengri , Yao Yajun , Zhang Xinghu , Yin Linlin
Published: October 2018

Astrocytic impairment is a pathologic feature of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). S100B and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) are the two most commonly used astrocytic markers. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether CSF-S100B could serve as a marker of NMOSD. We enrolled 49 NMOSD patients [25 aquaporin-4 antibody (AQP4-Ab)–positive, 8 myelin-oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab)-positive, and 16 seronegative patients], 12 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, and 15 other noninflammatory neurological diseases (OND) patients. The CSF levels of S100B and GFAP were measured by ELISA. Both CSF-S100B and GFAP levels significantly discriminated NMOSD from MS [area under curve (AUC) = 0.839 and 0.850, respectively] and OND (AUC = 0.839 and 0.850, respectively). The CSF-S100B levels differentiated AQP4-Ab–positive NMOSD from MOG-Ab–positive NMOSD with higher accuracy than the CSF-GFAP levels (AUC=0.865 and 0.772, respectively). The CSF-S100B levels also significantly discriminated MOG-Ab–positive patients from seronegative patients (AUC = 0.848). Both CSF-S100B and GFAP levels were correlated with the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) during remission. Only the CSF-S100B levels were correlated with the CSF WBC count and the EDSS during attack. The levels of CSF-S100B seemed to have a longer lasting time than the levels of CSF-GFAP, which may benefit patients who present late. As a result, CSF-S100B might be a potential candidate biomarker for NMOSD in discriminating, evaluating severity, and predicting disability.
Development of Focal Nodular Hyperplasia after Cyclophosphamide-Based Chemotherapy in a Patient with Breast Cancer
Authors: Xue Dan-Qing , Yang Lan
Published: October 2018

Focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) is the second most common liver cell-derived benign tumor. It is postulated that chemotherapy-induced hepatic circulatory abnormalities, like sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), could lead to the development of FNH. Cyclophosphamide was also reported to induce SOS in a synergistic effect with total body irradiation. However, none of cyclophosphamide-related FNH had ever been reported before. In this case report, we present a female patient who was treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy of cyclophosphamide (500mg/m2)-docetaxel (75mg/m2)-pharmorubicin (90mg/m2) regimen every 3 weeks for breast cancer developed FNH after 4 courses of treatment. The patient had no chronic liver disease, no history of smoking, drinking, or medication use. The chronological correlation between the chemotherapy and the appearance of the FNH suggested a cause-effect association. Therefore, this is the first case report about development of FNH after cyclophosphamide-based chemotherapy. Taking into account the frequency of breast cancer, it is instructive to recognize such observation of FNH in the context to make the differential diagnosis with hepatic metastasis.
Effects of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on the Properties of Pectin/Alginate Edible Films
Authors: Ngo Thi Minh Phuong , Dang Thi Mong Quyen , Tran Thi Xo , Rachtanapun Pornchai
Published: October 2018

This study aimed at developing the functional packaging properties of pectin/alginate films by adding zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). The ZnO-NPs were added to the pectin/alginate film at the concentrations of 0.5, 2.5, 5, and 25 g/100 g of blended polymer. The effects of the ZnO-NP incorporation on the mechanical properties, hydration properties, oxygen permeability, ultraviolet transmission, transparency, and antimicrobial activity of the films were investigated. The addition of ZnO-NPs from 0 to 5 g/100 g of blended polymer to the pectin/alginate film increased 191.4% of the tensile strength, 169.8% of elongation at break, and antimicrobial properties (against Aspergillus niger, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Escherichia coli, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae). In contrast, it reduced the solubility from 30.38% to 22.49%, water vapor permeability from 1.01 × 10−14 to 0.414 × 10−14 kg·m/m2·Pa·s, moisture absorption, ultraviolet light transmission, and oxygen permeability from 270.86 × 10−19 to 110.79 × 10−19 kg·m/m2·Pa·s. The effects are the highest when the concentration of the ZnO-NPs in the film was 5 g/100 g of blended polymer. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared analysis indicated that some interactions between the ZnO-NPs and pectin/alginate matrices were formed. These results suggest that pectin/alginate/ZnO-NPs films can be used as active packaging for food preservation.
Evaluation for Sortie Generation Capacity of the Carrier Aircraft Based on the Variable Structure RBF Neural Network with the Fast Learning Rate
Authors: Luan Tiantian , Sun Mingxiao , Xia Guoqing , Chen Daidai
Published: October 2018

The neural network has the advantages of self‐learning, self‐adaptation, and fault tolerance. It can establish a qualitative and quantitative evaluation model which is closer to human thought patterns. However, the structure and the convergence rate of the radial basis function (RBF) neural network need to be improved. This paper proposes a new variable structure radial basis function (VS‐RBF) with a fast learning rate, in order to solve the problem of structural optimization design and parameter learning algorithm for the radial basis function neural network. The number of neurons in the hidden layer is adjusted by calculating the output information of neurons in the hidden layer and the multi‐information between neurons in the hidden layer and output layer. This method effectively solves the problem that the RBF neural network structure is too large or too small. The convergence rate of the RBF neural network is improved by using the robust regression algorithm and the fast learning rate algorithm. At the same time, the convergence analysis of the VS‐RBF neural network is given to ensure the stability of the RBF neural network. Compared with other self‐organizing RBF neural networks (self‐organizing RBF (SORBF) and rough RBF neural networks (RS‐RBF)), VS‐RBF has a more compact structure, faster dynamic response speed, and better generalization ability. The simulations of approximating a typical nonlinear function, identifying UCI datasets, and evaluating sortie generation capacity of an carrier aircraft show the effectiveness of VS‐RBF.
Assessment of Pain Management, Acceptance of Illness, and Adjustment to Life with Cancer in Patients with Nonmuscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Krajewski Wojciech , Mazur Małgorzata , Poterek Adrian , Pastuszak Agata , Halska Urszula , Tukiendorf Andrzej , Rymaszewska Joanna , Zdrojowy Romuald
Published: October 2018

Purpose. According to the European Association of Urology bladder cancer is the seventh most commonly diagnosed malignancy in the world’s male population. Despite its high incidence, papers evaluating psychological state in those patients’ group are lacking. The purpose of the study was to evaluate pain management, disease acceptance, and adjustment to cancer in homogenous group of patients diagnosed with nonmuscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Methods. Group of 252 male patients who were scheduled for NMIBC treatment were prospectively evaluated. Patients fulfilled Acceptance of Illness Scale (AIS), Mini-Mental Adjustment to Cancer (Mini-MAC) and Coping Strategies (CSQ) questionnaires before treatment introduction. Results. Highest CSQ score was achieved by the coping self-statements subscale (mean=18,37). The catastrophizing subscale score was the lowest (mean=11,24). Place of residence affected results of CSQ statement about pain control. Catastrophizing and coping self-statements strategies were associated with matrimonial status. In the Mini-MAC questionnaire the fighting spirit way of coping had the highest (21,73) and the helplessness-hopelessness subscale had the lowest mean value (13,3). Matrimonial status was strongly associated with anxious preoccupation, fighting spirit, and helplessness – hopelessness way of coping. The mean AIS test score was 28.8. AIS result was influenced by patient’s marital status, yet not by education, place of residence, nor any clinical factor. Conclusions. In the examined group, the level of acceptance of the disease reached values that were slightly higher than the average. It indicated a fairly good adaptation to cancer. Among the methods of coping with cancer, the constructive style is definitely dominant with a high intensity of the fighting spirit strategy. The destructive style of cancer coping reached low values with a low intensity of helplessness/hopelessness strategy. From pain coping strategies, self-statements and praying/hoping were the most commonly chosen ways, whereas catastrophizing was the rarest. Many associations between various questioners’ results were also observed.
A Multi‐Granularity Backbone Network Extraction Method Based on the Topology Potential
Authors: Yuan Hanning , Han Yanni , Cai Ning , An Wei
Published: October 2018

Inspired by the theory of physics field, in this paper, we propose a novel backbone network compression algorithm based on topology potential. With consideration of the network connectivity and backbone compression precision, the method is flexible and efficient according to various network characteristics. Meanwhile, we define a metric named compression ratio to evaluate the performance of backbone networks, which provides an optimal extraction granularity based on the contributions of degree number and topology connectivity. We apply our method to the public available Internet AS network and Hep‐th network, which are the public datasets in the field of complex network analysis. Furthermore, we compare the obtained results with the metrics of precision ratio and recall ratio. All these results show that our algorithm is superior to the compared methods. Moreover, we investigate the characteristics in terms of degree distribution and self‐similarity of the extracted backbone. It is proven that the compressed backbone network has a lot of similarity properties to the original network in terms of power‐law exponent.
Prognostic Value of Frailty for Older Patients with Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies
Authors: Wang Xige , Zhou Changli , Li Yuewei , Li Huimin , Cao Qinqin , Li Feng
Published: October 2018

Objective. Numerous studies have investigated the prognostic role of frailty in elderly patients with heart failure (HF), but the limited size of the reported studies has resulted in continued uncertainty regarding its prognostic impact. The aim of this study was to integrate the findings of all available studies and estimate the impact of frailty on the prognosis of HF by performing a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched from inception to November 8th 2017 to identify eligible prospective studies. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) was used to evaluate study quality. The association between frailty and HF outcomes was reviewed. Overall hazard ratios (HRs) for the effects of frailty on all-cause mortality were pooled using a fixed-effect model and publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots. Results. A total of 10 studies involving 3033 elderly patients with HF were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. All eligible studies indicated that frailty was of prognostic significance for HF patients. The HRs for the effects of frailty on all-cause mortality were 1.70 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.41–2.04), based on the pooling of six studies that provided related data. However, publication bias was observed among the studies. Conclusions. Frailty has a high prevalence among older patients with HF. Elderly HF patients with frailty have a poorer prognosis than those without frailty. Further studies are now required to implement the use of frailty assessment tools and explore effective interventions for frailty in older HF patients.
The Influence of Pin Deviation on the Fracture Correction and the Fixator Adjustment with Sensitivity and Kinematic Analysis
Authors: Zhao Xia , Li Jianfeng
Published: October 2018

Fracture correction is important orthopedics operation and can be performed by unilateral external fixator. Due to pin deviations being inevitable during the operation, searching the impacts of pin deviation on the fracture correction and fixator joint adjustment are important. This study puts forward evaluation index with sensitivity analysis for investigating the impact of three orientation deviations and three position deviations on fracture correction. Meanwhile, based on a clinical case from a 28-year-old female, the influence of pin deviation on the adjustment of fixator joints was analyzed by inverse kinematic method. Different pin deviations have different sensitivity; the sensitivity of orientation deviation is relatively larger than position deviation. The existence of pin deviation will result in the change of the adjustment value of fixator joints. In addition, the experiments of seven situations were established to verify the analytical results. This study revealed the sensitivity of different pin deviations which can also be used to predict the adjustment value of fixator joints and the accuracy of fracture correction. This research also helps to reduce operation time and decrease damage to soft tissue by reducing the frequency of inserting pins.
A System Compensation Based Model Predictive AGC Method for Multiarea Interconnected Power Systems with High Penetration of PV System and Random Time Delay between Different Areas
Authors: Zhao Xilin , He Jingjing , Fu Bo , He Li , Xu Guanghui
Published: October 2018

In order to mitigate the negative influence of geographical dispersity of modern power system and the penetration of renewable energy, a system compensation based model predictive AGC method is proposed in this paper. A compensation unit is introduced in AGC system to reduce the influence of PV power output fluctuation. Furthermore, because the distributed power system is geographically dispersed, which leads to some defects such as time delay and packet dropouts, a selection and optimization algorithm is presented to obtain the appropriate variable when delays exist. Finally, a two-area interconnected power grid with PV systems is shown as an example to testify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method. The simulation results indicate that the system controlled by the proposed method has the expected dynamic performance.
Biological Nitrogen Fixation by Local and Improved Genotypes of Cowpea in Burkina Faso (West Africa): Total Nitrogen Accumulated can be used for Quick Estimation
Authors: Bado Boubié Vincent , Sedogo Michel , Lompo François , Maman Laminou Sanoussi Manzo
Published: October 2018

Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) by legumes is an indicator of their potential contribution to recycling nitrogen in cropping systems. Many techniques exist for the quantitative measurement of legume BNF. The isotopic dilution (ID) methods are the most accurate but are too expensive, time-consuming and require technical expertise. There is a gap between the simple but less accurate Total Nitrogen Difference (TND) method and the Isotopic Dilution (ID) methods. By measuring the BNF of 11 cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) genotypes, this study aimed to develop a simple model as an improved tool for the quick estimation of BNF. Total N accumulated by traditional genotypes from Burkina Faso varied from 23 to 41 kg ha−1. Approximately 40 to 65% of this was nitrogen derived from the atmosphere (Ndfa) when the TND method was used (Ndfa-TND), while the ID method indicated that 29 to 37% of N accumulated was derived from the atmosphere (Ndfa-ID). The TND method overestimated the BNF of high N-yielding genotypes but underestimated the BNF of low N-yielding genotypes (N-accumulated below 31 kg N ha−1). The relationship between N-accumulated and Ndfa-ID was described by a polynomial regression: Yi = 0.0127 Xi2 - 0.5354 Xi + 17.44, where Yi and Xi represent Ndfa-ID and N-accumulated, respectively (P<0.05, R2 =0.92). The model was validated and could be used for quick estimation of BNF directly from the N accumulated.
Incarcerated Femoral Hernia Repair with Ventralex™ Hernia Patch through Same Skin Incision and Suprainguinal Laparotomy
Authors: Aranovich David , Zilbermints Veacheslav , Kaminsky Oleg
Published: October 2018

Purpose. To report our experience with incarcerated femoral hernia procedure, which allows laparotomy through same inguinal skin incision, inspection and resection of compromised bowel, and preperitoneal tension-free transabdominal repair with Ventralex™ Hernia Patch.Materials and Methods. The suprainguinal laparotomy was performed via same groin incision without compromising iliopubic tract. The femoral ring was sealed with Ventralex™ Hernia Patch pulled through the abdominal cavity and secured outside. Five consecutive patients diagnosed with incarcerated femoral hernias were operated. All of them required laparotomy, either for bowel resection (n=3) or for inspection of viability (n=2).Results. All patients tolerated the procedure well. There were no wound or mesh infections, incisional hernias, or recurrences during follow-up.Conclusions. Our easy-to-master operative approach to incarcerated femoral hernia allows easy access to abdominal cavity through same groin incision without compromising iliopubic tract or midline laparotomy. Reduction of incarcerated bowel and its inspection and resection can be safely performed. The femoral ring defect can be effectively obliterated with Ventralex™ Hernia Patch.
Information Literacy Assessment with a Modified Hybrid Differential Evolution with Model-Based Reinitialization
Authors: Wang Yuan , Li Hui , Ding Zhenguo
Published: October 2018

Information literacy assessment is extremely important for the evaluation of the information literacy skills of college students. Intelligent optimization technique is an effective strategy to optimize the weight parameters of the information literacy assessment index system (ILAIS). In this paper, a new version of differential evolution algorithm (DE), named hybrid differential evolution with model-based reinitialization (HDEMR), is proposed to accurately fit the weight parameters of ILAIS. The main contributions of this paper are as follows: firstly, an improved contraction criterion which is based on the population entropy in objective space and the maximum distance in decision space is employed to decide when the local search starts. Secondly, a modified model-based population reinitialization strategy is designed to enhance the global search ability of HDEMR to handle complex problems. Two types of experiments are designed to assess the performance of HDEMR. In the first type of experiments, HDEMR is tested and compared with seven well-known DE variants on CEC2005 and CEC2014 benchmark functions. In the second type of experiments, HDEMR is compared with the well-known and widely used deterministic algorithm DIRECT on GKLS test classes. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of HDEMR for global numerical optimization and show better performance. Furthermore, HDEMR is applied to optimize the weight parameters of ILAIS at China University of Geosciences (CUG), and satisfactory results are obtained.
Dosing Patterns during Conversion to IPX066, Extended-Release Carbidopa-Levodopa (ER CD-LD), in Parkinson’s Disease with Motor Fluctuations
Authors: Morgan John C. , Dhall Rohit , Rubens Robert , Khanna Sarita , Gupta Suneel
Published: October 2018

Background. IPX066 is an extended-release (ER) oral formulation of carbidopa-levodopa (CD-LD). Following an initial peak at about one hour, plasma LD concentrations are maintained for about 4-5 hours. Objective. To present dosing factors that may affect the successful conversion to ER CD-LD from other LD formulations. Methods. Two-phase 3 studies of ER CD-LD vs. immediate-release (IR) CD-LD (ADVANCE-PD) and vs. CD-LD + entacapone (CLE; ASCEND-PD) in subjects with advanced PD included a 6-week, open-label conversion to ER CD-LD prior to treatment randomization. The “converted” daily LD dose ratio and dose frequency for ER CD-LD were compared to the prior LD treatment regimens at study entry. Results. The average daily LD dose ratio at the end of dose conversion to ER CD-LD was approximately 2.1 for IR CD-LD and 2.8 for CLE. The final dose ratios tended to be slightly higher for participants taking lower LD doses at study entry but independent of dose frequency. ER CD-LD dose frequency increased with increasing LD dose and dose frequency at study entry. Participants on higher baseline LD doses ≥800 mg and dose frequencies ≥6 tended to have higher rates of discontinuation during conversion to ER CD-LD. Conclusions. Converting participants from other LD formulations to ER CD-LD is based on their current LD regimen. For the most common daily doses (≤1250 mg) and dose frequencies (<7) of LD, final mean dose ratios were within tight ranges of 2.1 to 2.4 for IR CD-LD (ADVANCE-PD) and 2.4 to 2.8 for CLE (ASCEND-PD) and were generally independent of the LD dosing frequency at study entry. These trials are registered with NCT00974974, NCT01130493.
The Ewing Family of Tumors Relies on BCL-2 and BCL-XL to Escape PARP Inhibitor Toxicity
Authors: Heisey Daniel A.R. , Lochmann Timothy L. , Floros Konstantinos V. , Coon Colin M. , Powell Krista M. , Jacob Sheeba , Calbert Marissa L. , Ghotra Maninderjit S. , Stein Giovanna T. , Maves Yuki Kato , Smith Steven C. , Benes Cyril H. , Leverson Joel D. , Souers Andrew J. , Boikos Sosipatros A. , Faber Anthony C.
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

It was recently demonstrated that the EWSR1-FLI1 t(11;22)(q24;12) translocation contributes to the hypersensitivity of Ewing sarcoma to PARP inhibitors, prompting clinical evaluation of olaparib in a cohort of heavily pretreated Ewing sarcoma tumors. Unfortunately, olaparib activity was disappointing, suggesting an underappreciated resistance mechanism to PARP inhibition in patients with Ewing sarcoma. We sought to elucidate the resistance factors to PARP inhibitor therapy in Ewing sarcoma and identify a rational drug combination capable of rescuing PARP inhibitor activity.

Experimental Design:

We employed a pair of cell lines derived from the same patient with Ewing sarcoma prior to and following chemotherapy, a panel of Ewing sarcoma cell lines, and several patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and cell line xenograft models.

Results:

We found olaparib sensitivity was diminished following chemotherapy. The matched cell line pair revealed increased expression of the antiapoptotic protein BCL-2 in the chemotherapy-resistant cells, conferring apoptotic resistance to olaparib. Resistance to olaparib was maintained in this chemotherapy-resistant model in vivo, whereas the addition of the BCL-2/XL inhibitor navitoclax led to tumor growth inhibition. In 2 PDXs, olaparib and navitoclax were minimally effective as monotherapy, yet induced dramatic tumor growth inhibition when dosed in combination. We found that EWS-FLI1 increases BCL-2 expression; however, inhibition of BCL-2 alone by venetoclax is insufficient to sensitize Ewing sarcoma cells to olaparib, revealing a dual necessity for BCL-2 and BCL-XL in Ewing sarcoma survival.

Conclusions:

These data reveal BCL-2 and BCL-XL act together to drive olaparib resistance in Ewing sarcoma and reveal a novel, rational combination therapy that may be put forward for clinical trial testing.
Anti-PD-1 Antibody SHR-1210 Combined with Apatinib for Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma, Gastric, or Esophagogastric Junction Cancer: An Open-label, Dose Escalation and Expansion Study
Authors: Xu Jianming , Zhang Yun , Jia Ru , Yue Chunyan , Chang Lianpeng , Liu Rongrui , Zhang Gairong , Zhao Chuanhua , Zhang Yaoyue , Chen Chunxia , Wang Yan , Yi Xin , Hu Zhiyuan , Zou Jianjun , Wang Quanren
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

This study assessed the safety and efficacy of SHR-1210 (anti-PD-1 antibody) and apatinib (VEGFR2 inhibitor) as combination therapy in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), gastric, or esophagogastric junction cancer (GC/EGJC).

Patients and Methods:

This was an open-label, dose-escalation (phase Ia) and expansion study (phase Ib). In phase Ia, patients (n = 15) received SHR-1210 200 mg every 2 weeks and apatinib 125–500 mg once daily until unacceptable toxicity or disease progression. In phase Ib, patients (n = 28) received apatinib at the phase Ia–identified recommended phase II dose (RP2D) plus SHR-1210. The primary objectives were safety and tolerability and RP2D determination.

Results:

At data cutoff, 43 patients were enrolled. In phase Ia, four dose-limiting toxicity events were observed (26.7%): one grade 3 lipase elevation (6.7%) in the apatinib 250 mg cohort and three grade 3 pneumonitis events (20%) in the apatinib 500 mg cohort. The maximum tolerated RP2D for apatinib was 250 mg. Of the 33 patients treated with the R2PD combination, 20 (60.6%) experienced a grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse event; adverse events in ≥10% of patients were hypertension (15.2%) and increased aspartate aminotransferase (15.2%). The objective response rate in 39 evaluable patients was 30.8% (95% CI: 17.0%–47.6%). Eight of 16 evaluable HCC patients achieved a partial response (50.0%, 95% CI: 24.7%–75.4%).

Conclusions:

SHR-1210 and apatinib combination therapy demonstrated manageable toxicity in patients with HCC and GC/EGJC at recommended single-agent doses of both drugs. The RP2D for apatinib as combination therapy was 250 mg, which showed encouraging clinical activity in patients with advanced HCC.
On Use of the Standard Deviation of the Mass Distribution as a Parameter in Raindrop Size Distribution Functions
Authors: Smith Paul L. , Johnson Roger W. , Kliche Donna V.
Published: October 2018

Use of the standard deviation σm of the drop mass distribution as one of the three parameters of raindrop size distribution (DSD) functions was introduced for application to disdrometer data supporting the Global Precipitation Measurement dual-frequency radar system. The other two parameters are a normalized drop number concentration Nw and the mass-weighted mean diameter Dm. This paper presents an evaluation of that formulation of the DSD functions, in two parts. First is a mathematical analysis showing that the procedure for estimating σm, along with the other DSD parameters, from disdrometer data is in essence another moment method. As such, it is subject to the biases and errors inherent in all moment methods. When the form of the DSD function is specified, it is inferior (like all moment methods) to the maximum likelihood technique for fitting parameters to sampled data. The second part is a series of sampling simulations illustrating the biases and errors involved in applying the formulation to the specific case of gamma DSDs. It leads to underestimates of σm and consequently to overestimates of the gamma shape parameter—with large root-mean-square errors. Comparison with maximum likelihood estimates shows the degree of improvement that could be obtained in the estimates of the shape parameter. The propensity to underestimate σm will be pervasive, and users of this DSD formulation should be cognizant of the biases and errors that can occur.
Higher education provision and access for early years educators: Localised challenges arising from national policy in England
Authors: Hoskins Kate , Smedley Sue
Published: October 2018

Much has been written about the sustained attempts by successive governments to professionalise the early years sector over the past 20 years in England. A feature of these policy interventions has been to focus on creating a graduate workforce to improve academic outcomes for young children. In this article, the authors draw on data from their recent Froebel Trust-funded project, which involved interviews with 33 early years practitioners, to first explore the challenges facing state-maintained early years settings in contrasting geographical contexts in England, including rural, suburban and urban, as they work towards achieving compliance with the recent policy aim of one graduate in each of their settings. Second, the authors use policy enactment theory to inform their analysis of senior staff members’ perceptions of tensions and opportunities created by having a graduate workforce in state-maintained early years settings. Third, the authors tentatively explore how to reconceptualise staff education and training with existing, experienced early years staff that would re-emphasise Froebel-informed approaches to enable practitioners to theorise their practice in a move towards what the authors have termed in this article as ‘developmental professionalism’. The data shows that there is uneven access to higher education in contrasting geographical contexts for those professionals seeking to gain graduate status, and the authors examine the implications of this for early years practitioners and managers attempting to access graduate qualifications.
Hypofractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy as a Salvage Therapy for Recurrent High-Grade Gliomas: Single-Center Experience
Authors: Reynaud Thomas , Bertaut Aurélie , Farah Walid , Thibouw David , Crehange Gilles , Truc Gilles , Vulquin Noémie
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose:

The aim of this study was to investigate the survival outcomes and safety of hypofractioned stereotactic radiotherapy as a salvage treatment for recurrent high-grade glioma.

Patients and Methods:

Between March 2012 and March 2017, 32 consecutive patients (12 women, 20 men) treated in a single center were retrospectively included in this study. Grade III gliomas were diagnosed in 14 patients and grade IV in 18 patients. Thirty-four lesions were treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy on a linear accelerator. Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy delivered a median dose of 30 Gy (27-30) in 6 fractions (3-6) of 5 Gy (5-9). The treatment plans were normalized to 100% at the isocenter and prescribed to the 80% isodose line. Clinical outcomes and prognostic factors were analyzed.

Results:

Median follow-up was 20.9 months. Median overall survival following hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy was 15.6 months (median overall survival for patients with glioblastoma and grade III glioma was 8.2 and 19.5 months, respectively; P = .0496) and progression-free survival was 3.7 months (median progression-free survival for patients with glioblastoma and grade III glioma was 3.6 and 4.5 months, respectively; P = .2424). In multivariate analysis, tumor grade III ( P = .0027), an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group status <2 at the time of reirradiation ( P = .0023), and a mean dose >35 Gy ( P = .0055) significantly improved overall survival. A maximum reirradiation dose above 38 Gy ( P = .0179) was significantly associated with longer progression-free survival.

Conclusion:

Hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy is well tolerated and offers an effective salvage option for the treatment of recurrent high-grade gliomas with encouraging overall survival. Our results suggest that the dose distribution had an impact on survival.
Stem Cell Applications for Treatment of Cancer and Autoimmune Diseases: Its Promises, Obstacles, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Hawsawi Yousef M. , Al-Zahrani Faisal , Mavromatis Charalampos (Harris) , Baghdadi Mohammed A. , Saggu Shalini , Oyouni Atif Abdulwahab A.
Published: October 2018

Since the original discovery of stem cells, a new era of promising results has emerged in the clinical application of stem cells for the treatment of several important diseases, including cancer and autoimmune diseases. The plentiful research on stem cells during the past decades has provided significant information on the developmental, morphological, and physiological processes that govern tissue and organ formation, maintenance, and regeneration; cellular differentiation; molecular processes; and tissue homeostasis. In this review, we present the history of the use of stem cells in different clinical applications. Furthermore, we discuss the various therapeutic options for stem cells in cancer, followed by the role of stem cells in the treatment of autoimmune disorders. Additionally, we highlight the risks of and obstacles to the application of stem cells in clinical practice. Ultimately, we show future perspectives in stem cell use, with an aim to improve the clinical usefulness of stem cells.
Ceftaroline fosamil laden allograft: A new modality in reducing infection?
Authors: Singh Vivek Ajit , Sim Lim Han , Haseeb Amber , Ju Cindy Teh Shuan
Published: October 2018

Purpose:

Allograft infection remains the greatest challenge in orthopaedic reconstructive surgery especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). This risk can be minimized with the use of antibiotic laden allograft (ALA) via iontophoresis. Ceftaroline fosamil (CF) is an advanced-generation cephalosporin, an alternative treatment for MRSA infections. Its antibacterial activity and safety profile are better than vancomycin. CF iontophoresed bone has not been used before. This study was conducted to establish the feasibility of creating a CF ALA and establish the prime conditions for its expenditure.

Method:

We created an iontophoresis cell; 3% CF was inserted within medullary segment of goat bone and sealed from external saline solution. The cell operated at the following voltages 30, 60 and 90 V and at the following durations 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 min. Information regarding optimal conditions for its application was then obtained. After which, correlation between voltages and time with CF concentration in the bone was analysed. A bioavailability test was also conducted to observe the optimal rate of CF elution from the graft.

Result:

The optimal condition for the impregnation process is 3% CF at 90 V for 10 min. Bone graft impregnated with CF at optimal conditions can elute above minimum inhibitory concentration of the CF against MRSA for 21 days.

Conclusion:

CF iontophoresis was found feasible for allograft impregnation. The technique is simple, inexpensive and reproducible clinically. Iontophoresis offers a novel solution to reduce the rate of perioperative infection in reconstructive surgery involving use of bone graft.
Youth sports activity and young people’s well-being after a disaster: a trial with the Mastery Approach to Coaching (MAC) in the Philippines
Authors: Akiyama Takeshi , Gregorio Ernesto R. , Kobayashi Jun
Published: October 2018

Objective

Sports activities is broadly utilized to support well-being of youth after a disaster or conflict. However, scientific validation of programs have not been conducted. The Mastery Approach to Coaching (MAC) is a coaching-education program on sports activities. The MAC reported to have a positive effect on youngsters’ self-esteem. As self-esteem is generally known to be beneficial for mental status, we tested the effect of a MAC program on students’ self-esteem in a disaster-affected area: Leyte, Philippines. We recruited 10th grade students from three schools; one school was allocated to the MAC intervention and the two schools to the control group. All schools were encouraged to involve students in volleyball from January to February 2015. In January 2015, MAC workshop was conducted in the intervention school before the sports activity.

Results

A total of 293 students completed the questionnaires. The intervention school (n = 51) showed a significant change in self-esteem, with the mean score increasing from 20.2 to 21.1 (p = 0.02). Neither school in the control group showed the significant change. The result showed the feasibility and a positive effect of sports activity with the MAC. However, further investigation should be conducted.

Trial registration UMIN Clinical Trials Registry ID: UMIN000033197 on June 30th 2018. Retrospectively registered
Explanatory paradigms for professional boundary violations
Authors: Adshead Gwen
Published: October 2018

In this commentary, I draw on Hook & Devereux to explore the role of insecure attachment in boundary-violating doctors. I also explore the potential contribution of personality dysfunction in that small proportion of doctors who breach professional boundaries.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

G. A. worked with Dr Hook at St George's Hospital, London, and has also worked at the Clinic for Boundaries Studies, where he has worked.
Janssen in China and insights in treating schizophrenia
Authors: Cookson John
Published: October 2018

This Cochrane review supports existing recommendations for risperidone and advances understanding of the use of valproate in patients with schizophrenia who are agitated or aggressive.

DECLARATION OF INTEREST

J.C. conducted clinical trials of antipsychotics sponsored by Janssen Pharmaceuticals between 1978 and 1998 and met Dr Paul Janssen.