bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comfort and Mechanical Properties of Polyester/Bamboo and Polyester/Cotton Blended Knitted Fabric
Authors: Hussain Uzair , Younis Farhad Bin , Usman Faisal , Hussain Tanveer , Ahmed Faheem
Published: November 2018

The mechanical and comfort properties of polyester/bamboo and polyester/cotton knitted fabrics were studied. Four different ratios, P/B 65/35, P/B 50/50, P/B 35/65, P/B 20/80, P/C 65/35, P/C 50/50, P/C 35/65, P/C 20/80 of both blends were produced by mixing at the blow room stage. Then yarns of equal count Ne 20 were made on a ring spinning machine, and a knitted fabric was produced on a single jersey weft knitting machine.

It was observed that by increasing bamboo and cotton fiber content in the blends, yarn breaking force and tenacity were decreased. Bursting strength, bending rigidity, and thermal resistance of the blended fabrics decreased by increasing bamboo and cotton fiber content in the blends, while air permeability and moisture management capability was found to increase with the increase in bamboo and cotton fiber content. No antimicrobial activity was shown by any of the P/B blended fabric, but to some extent, 100% bamboo fiber showed antibacterial activity against gram negative bacteria while against gram positive bacteria, no activity was observed.
Reliability growth rate calculation method for hydrostatic spindle of heavy-duty machine tool using analytic network process
Authors: Tian Hailong , Yang Zhaojun , Chen Chao , Chen Chuanhai , He Jialong , Zhu Dong , Zhao Hongxun
Published: November 2018

Aiming at the problem that the difference of the equipment between before and after implementation of reliability growth technology is not considered in calculating reliability growth rate of computer numerical control machine tools, this article takes the hydrostatic spindle of the heavy-duty machine tool as an example and introduces the concept of “net growth rate” to propose a new method to calculate reliability growth rate. First, based on the value of mean time between failures of the whole machine before implementation of reliability growth technology, a model of the “net growth rate” of the whole machine is established. Second, the reliability relationship between the whole machine and the subsystems is established through the reliability block diagram, so the problem is transformed into solving the value of mean time between failures of the subsystems. Then, a superposition model of “net growth rate” of subsystems is established by making full use of experimental data and product information. When dealing with product information, multiple factors including composition structure, design requirement, manufacture and assembly, and use environment which influence equipment reliability are considered comprehensively and analytic network process is employed to obtain the weights of the influencing factors. Based on the weights, the reliability comprehensive scores which can reflect the reliability level in the corresponding design, manufacturing, and use environment are calculated and the reliability growth rate caused by the differences of the equipment is solved. In order to add ambiguity of human judgment, interval numbers are applied to network analysis process models. Finally, this article verifies the feasibility of the proposed method with an example.
The Rotoscopic Uncanny: Aku no Hana and the Aesthetic of Japanese Postmodernity
Authors: Gottesman Zachary Samuel
Published: November 2018

CGI has led to a theoretical revolution in media studies. What is cinema when reality can be created on a computer? What is animation when superflat 2D aesthetics are becoming haunted by 3D digital graphics? This article adds a third term to the debate: rotoscoping. The author analyzes the first exclusively rotoscoped Japanese anime, Aku no Hana (The Flowers of Evil), a contemporary reinterpretation of Charles Baudelaire’s Les Fleurs du Mal that reflects on postmodern malaise, rural decay and depopulation, and otaku escapism, in order to examine the aesthetic of the rotoscope in relation to cinema and anime. He argues that rotoscoping is an uncannying of the cinematism and animitism, or a polemical response to both the ideologies of Disney immersive realism and anime flat animation. The article investigates the narrative’s ‘writer of postmodern life’ Sawa Nakamura in relation to Baudelaire’s modernism and the conditions of postmodernity themselves: the structure of Japanese imperialism today and its effect on Gunma prefecture, the setting of the show. Finally, the author analyzes the hostile response to the show among otaku to explore how the hauntology of the rotoscopic machine channels the ghosts of neoliberalism, the super-exploited laborers of the third world.
Repair of soft tissue defects in finger, thumb and forearm: less invasive methods with similar outcomes
Authors: Elliot David , Adani Roberto , Hyun Woo Sang , Tang Jin Bo
Published: November 2018

We review recent developments in using occlusive dressings, dermal templates, and venous flaps for less invasive approaches to treat soft tissue defects of the forearm and fingers. Occlusive dressings can be used for thumb tip or fingertip trauma with soft tissue defects of small or moderate sizes. They permit skin regeneration without use of skin graft or a flap transfer. This is currently a popular way to treat tip soft tissue defects in European countries. Extensive soft tissue defects in the thumb, fingers, hand and forearm require flap transfers traditionally, but in recent years, surgeons use dermal templates to cover the defect site to allow regeneration of subcutaneous tissues, over which a skin graft is used in lieu of a flap. Transfer of a venous flap is currently a reliable procedure and is less invasive compared with conventional flaps, which usually damage a named artery in the donor. We advocate that less invasive methods should be considered for soft tissue defects in the hand and forearm.
Wound-Healing Issues Following Rotational Ankle Fracture Surgery: Predictors and Local Management Options
Authors: Saleh Hesham , Konda Sanjit , Driesman Adam , Stranix John , Ly Catherine , Saadeh Pierre , Egol Kenneth
Published: November 2018

Background. The incidence and risk factors of wound-healing complications following rotational ankle fracture surgery are well documented in the literature. However, there is a paucity regarding management options following these complications. The goal of this study was to provide a descriptive analysis of one surgeon’s experience managing wound complications in patients who have undergone ankle fracture surgery. Methods. A total of 215 patients who were operatively treated for an unstable ankle were retrospectively identified. Patient demographics, medical histories, initial injury characteristics, surgical interventions, and clinical follow-up were collected. Twenty-five of these patients developed postoperative wound problems. Results. Of the original cohort of 215 patients, 25 (11.6%) developed wound-healing complications. Their average age was 53.6 ± 18.0 years; there were 12 males (48.0%). Connective tissue/inflammatory disease (odds ratio [OR] 3.9), cardiovascular disease (OR 3.6), and active smoking (OR 3.3) were associated with an increased likelihood of developing postoperative wound complications. With regard to injuries, open fractures (OR 17.9) had the highest likelihood of developing postoperative complications, followed by type 44-C (OR 2.8) and trimalleolar fractures (OR 2.0). Conclusion. Wound complications following open treatment of ankle fractures occurred with an incidence of 11.6% in this series, of which only about half required operative intervention. A third of wounds were managed by orthopaedics in conjunction with plastic surgery.

Levels of Evidence: Level III: Retrospective comparative study
Incidence of Concussion and Head Impacts in Australian Elite-Level Male and Female Cricketers After Head Impact Protocol Modifications
Authors: Hill Thomas , Orchard John , Kountouris Alex
Published: November 2018

Background:

Concussion in sport is a topic of growing interest in Australia and worldwide. To date, relatively few studies have examined the true incidence of concussion in cricket.

Hypothesis:

Concussion in cricket is more common than current literature suggests.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

This is a prospective registry and subsequent analysis of head impacts and concussions in elite-level male and female cricketers in Australia over 2 seasons (2015-2016 and 2016-2017). A total of 172 male and 106 female domestic and international players in 2015-2016 and 179 males and 98 females in 2016-2017 were included.

Results:

There were 92 head impacts (29 concussions) in men’s matches and 15 head impacts (8 concussions) in women’s matches. Match incidence rates per 1000 player days were 7.2 head impacts (2.3 concussions) in elite male cricket and 3.7 head impacts (2.0 concussions) in elite female cricket. This equates to a head impact every 2000 balls and concussion every 9000 balls in male domestic cricket. Concussion rates per 1000 player-match hours were 0.4 for elite males and 0.5 for elite females; 53% of head impacts in females were diagnosed as concussions compared with 32% in males, and 83% of concussions resulted in missing no more than 1 game.

Conclusion:

The rate of concussion in cricket is higher than previously appreciated; however, the majority of patients recovered quickly, and players generally did not miss much playing time as a result. The institution of concussion policies after head impact, including player substitution, appears to have had an effect on increasing reporting of symptoms, resulting in an increase in diagnosis of concussion.

Clinical Relevance:

Concussion in cricket is not as infrequent as previously assumed. Ongoing review of the rules and regulations is required to ensure that protection of player welfare lies in parallel with other sporting codes.
Yield of Emergent CT in Patients With Epilepsy Presenting With a Seizure
Authors: Kvam Kathryn A. , Douglas Vanja C. , Whetstone William D. , Josephson S. Andrew , Betjemann John P.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Studies of emergent neuroimaging in the management of patients presenting with a breakthrough seizure are lacking. We sought to determine how often emergent computed tomography (CT) scans are obtained in patients with known epilepsy presenting with a seizure and how often acute abnormalities are found.

Methods:

This multicenter retrospective cohort study was performed in the emergency department at 2 academic medical centers. The primary outcomes were percentage of visits where a CT scan was obtained, whether CT findings represented acute abnormalities, and whether these findings changed acute management.

Results:

Of the 396 visits included, CT scans were obtained in 39%, and 8% of these scans demonstrated acute abnormalities. Patients who were older, had status epilepticus, a brain tumor, head trauma, or an abnormal examination were all significantly more likely to undergo acute neuroimaging ( P < .05). In the multivariable model, only history of brain tumor (odds ratio [OR] 5.88, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.33-26.1) and head trauma as a result of seizure (OR 3.92, 95% CI, 1.01-15.2) reached statistical significance in predicting an acutely abnormal scan. The likelihood of an acute imaging abnormality in visits for patients without a history of brain tumor or head trauma as a result of the seizure was 2.7% (2 visits). Both of these patients had abnormal neurological examinations.

Conclusion:

Obtaining an emergent CT scan for patients with epilepsy presenting with a seizure may be avoidable in most cases, but might be indicated for patients with a history of brain tumor or head trauma as a result of seizure.
Entangling and Elevating Creativity and Criticality in Participatory Futuring Engagements
Authors: Balcom Raleigh Nicolas A. , Heinonen Sirkka
Published: November 2018

This article proposes that creativity and criticality not only can but should be entangled and elevated in participatory futuring engagements. Selected concepts from creativity theory and critical futures studies are applied to develop a set of futuring games through action research. We claim that participatory processes designed to entangle and elevate creativity and criticality produce more novel and varied ideas that better fit the purposes of futures studies. This article offers four arguments for combining creativity and criticality in participatory futuring engagements. First, due to complexity and uncertainty, the future is ultimately unknowable and requires tools to probe the unknown. Second, novelty is difficult to achieve in practice while creativity and criticality can help overcome these challenges. Third, discontinuities are the main sources of futures that are most radically different from the present and will have the biggest impact. Fourth, creativity and criticality support the rigorous imagining required for exploring and discovering new possible futures. This article analyzes three experimentations in entangling and elevating creativity and criticality in game-based futuring, stemming from Causal Layered Analysis. Based on these examples, we demonstrate that creativity and criticality, when combined, help people break through the limitations of current understanding, reveal approaching tipping points, and find the “unvisited cavities” through rhizomatic knowledge creation. However, there remain challenges in evaluating how well various participatory designs support creativity and criticality in practice. Context-sensitive evaluation tools and open sharing of outcomes are needed to develop participation design principles capable of supporting creativity and criticality in participatory futuring.
Assessment and patient selection process for a pain management programme: a case study in specialty care
Authors: Knight Lucie D , Guildford Beth J , Daly-Eichenhardt Aisling , McCracken Lance M
Published: November 2018

Introduction:

The present study audited the process of assessing and selecting patients for a pain management programme with the aim of reviewing best practice in the light of the latest British Pain Society guidelines for pain management programmes for adults. The guidelines include defined inclusion/exclusion criteria and it was explored how they are used by clinicians providing a pain management service.

Method:

The records of 200 consecutive patients who attended a multidisciplinary assessment for a central London specialist Pain Management Service from September 2014 to December 2014 were audited. The proportions of patients who were offered a programme, were discharged or referred for a different service were calculated. Clinic letters were reviewed to collect information on assessment outcomes, recommendations and inclusion/exclusion criteria used.

Results:

About half the patients (53%) seen for assessment were offered treatment within the service, most frequently the intensive residential programme (30.5%, with an additional 11.6% offered case management first), followed by the five session outpatient programme (8.1%) and a minority was offered individual treatment (2.5%); 44.7% of the patients were discharged following the assessment. The three most frequently used reasons for exclusion were: not ready to engage with the pain management approach (35%), complex psychological or other needs needing to be prioritised (29.5%) and the patient declining a programme (19.3%).

Conclusion:

Reviewing the use of inclusion/exclusion criteria revealed some challenges regarding patient selection. For example, a sizable proportion of patients were still seeking pain reduction and were not open to a self-management approach when this was the recommended treatment for them. Complex patients might need other treatment approaches before they can be considered for a programme. Having a range of pain management options of varying intensities available seems helpful in meeting individual patient need.
Radiofrequency ablation for patients with refractory symptomatic anaemia secondary to gastric antral vascular ectasia
Authors: Magee Cormac , Lipman Gideon , Alzoubaidi Durayd , Everson Martin , Sweis Rami , Banks Matthew , Graham David , Gordon Charles , Lovat Laurence , Murray Charles , Haidry Rehan
Published: November 2018

Background

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding, often causing iron deficiency anaemia. Previous studies have looked at the management of this with argon plasma coagulation, laser therapy and endoscopic band ligation.

Methods

This was a single‐centre prospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with GAVE with persistent anaemia refractory to at least one session of first‐line endoscopic therapy. Patients were treated with a through‐the‐scope (TTS) radiofrequency catheter at two endoscopic sessions six weeks apart. The primary outcome was change in haemoglobin at six months posttreatment. The secondary outcomes were reduction in blood or iron requirements, endoscopic surface area regression and complications.

Results

Twenty patients were treated. The mean change in haemoglobin at six months was +12.6 g/l (95% confidence interval 11.7–24.3 g/l), paired t test p < 0.001. At six months, three of 14 individuals who had required blood transfusions had ongoing blood transfusions and five of 17 who had required iron had ongoing iron needs. Surface area regression was scored as 74% ± 25% but no correlation was seen between this and other outcomes. Three of 20 patients experienced pain which was managed with oral analgesia. Of the 14 patients who had reached 12‐month follow‐up, three required retreatment (21%).

Discussion

This small study suggests that RFA is a safe and effective treatment for GAVE. Our study uses the TTS catheter compared to other studies, and demonstrates prolonged improvement in haemoglobin and reduction in blood and iron requirements with a novel assessment of surface area regression.
Development and reliability of a hand-held dynamometer device to measure the ankle dorsiflexor muscle strength
Authors: Kimura Masanobu , Ogata Yuto , Akebi Toru , Ochi Mitsuhiro , Hachisuka Kenji , Saeki Satoru
Published: November 2018

Background

Ankle dorsiflexor muscle strength is a crucial component of gait.

Objective

We describe the development of a simple, hand-held dynamometer to measure the ankle dorsiflexor muscle strength in the sitting position. In addition, we examine its intra- and inter-rater reliability.

Methods

Measurements of the peak ankle dorsiflexor muscle strength were obtained by two examiners for 30 ankles of 15 healthy adults at two time points, with a one-day interval between measurements, to determine the inter- and intra-rater reliability. The intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated, and an intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.90 was considered as excellent reliability. A Bland–Altman analysis was used to assess systemic bias. The minimal detectable change in muscle strength was calculated with a confidence level of 95% (MDC95).

Results

The reliability of the device was excellent for both intra- (intraclass correlation coefficients [1,3] = 0.94) and inter-rater (intraclass correlation coefficients [2,3] = 0.96) comparisons. No fixed or proportional bias was observed between the two examiners. The MDC95 was 0.77 N/kg.

Conclusions

Our results indicate the excellent reliability and responsiveness of our device. By obtaining the measurements of dorsiflexor strength while sitting, compensatory motions are suppressed, yielding a more consistent measurement that can be reliably used to detect subtle changes in the ankle dorsiflexor muscle strength.
Probabilistic Learning by Positive and Negative Reinforcement in Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors: LaFreniere Lucas S. , Newman Michelle G.
Published: November 2018

This experiment examined learning tendencies in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) using reinforcement feedback for probabilistic outcomes. One hundred sixty-six GAD and 105 non-GAD participants were randomized to a computerized probabilistic learning task that used either negative or positive reinforcement. Participants chose between stimuli with specific probabilities of reinforcement to learn which of each pair had the highest probability. Reinforced choices either removed an angry face (negative reinforcement) or made a happy face appear (positive reinforcement). Results showed that those with GAD learned the correct probabilistic choices at a slower rate over time and to a lesser degree than control participants regardless of reinforcement type. Estimations of the likelihood of receiving a good outcome posttask were also more inaccurate for those with GAD, especially when true likelihoods were high. Furthermore, compared with control participants, those with GAD reported lower perceived reinforcement sensitivity, higher behavioral inhibition sensitivity, and higher undesirable feelings toward probabilistic learning.
BMP-7/Smad expression in dedifferentiated Schwann cells during axonal regeneration and upregulation of endogenous BMP-7 following administration of PTH (1-34)
Authors: Kokubu Naoki , Tsujii Masaya , Akeda Koji , Iino Takahiro , Sudo Akihiro
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

To determine the expression and distribution of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-7 and related molecules during peripheral nerve regeneration and to assess whether administration of parathyroid hormone (PTH) drug (1-34) potentiates the intrinsic upregulation of BMP-7/Smad signaling.

Methods:

The rat sciatic nerves were crushed with an aneurysm clip resulting in axonal degeneration. In the normal nerve, and at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after injury, BMP-7, BMP receptors, p-Smad 1/5/8, and Noggin, the endogenous BMP antagonist, were evaluated. Additionally, the distribution of BMP-7 was assessed by fluorescent double immunostaining. In vitro studies were also performed to examine the effect of BMP-7 and PTH (1-34) administration on rat Schwann cells (SCs).

Results:

Aneurysm clip made reliable animal model of the nerve injury with recovery at 8 weeks after the injury. BMP-7/Smad protein and mRNA were significantly upregulated on axon-SCs units at 1 week after injury, and this upregulated expression was maintained for 4 weeks. Besides, significant upregulation of Noggin’s expression was observed on axon-SCs units at 2 weeks after injury. Moreover, fluorescent double immunostaining showed co-localization between expression of BMP-7 and p75NTR during axonal regeneration. In the in vitro study, administration of BMP-7 induced significant proliferation of SCs. Application of PTH (1-34) upregulated BMP-7 on SCs.

Discussion/conclusion:

BMPs were reported to be involved in protection and recovery after injury as well as in neurogenesis. Our current study showed that BMP/Smad signaling molecules were upregulated on dedifferentiated SCs after peripheral nerve injury and that administration of BMP-7 increased SC viability in vitro. These results suggested that axonal regeneration could be induced via upregulation of endogenous BMP-7 on SCs by PTH (1-34) administration.
A Study on the Motivation to Transfer Training in the Banking Industry of Bangladesh
Authors: Arefin Md. Shamsul , Islam Nazrul
Published: November 2018

Training and development activities in the banking sector of Bangladesh are quite extensive due to the compliance requirements for the central bank and other banks. These training programmes focus not only on increasing knowledge but also on transferring that knowledge to the job. However, the effectiveness with which training is transferred primarily depends on the motivation to transfer. There is extant research from recent years on the motivation to transfer training in different industries and in this sector. However, little is known about the motivation to transfer training in the banking industry of Bangladesh. Thus, this study attempts to identify the factors that influence the motivation to transfer training in the banking sector of Bangladesh. A sample of 275 employees who obtained training from banks was surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique. The results show that self-efficacy, supervisory support and opportunity to perform have a significant impact on the motivation to transfer training in the banking industry of Bangladesh. This study suggests that the supervisory styles and working environment of banks play the most important role in motivating employees to transfer training in this sector of Bangladesh.
Association between antibiotic consumption and the rate of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria from China based on 153 tertiary hospitals data in 2014
Authors: Yang Ping , Chen Yunbo , Jiang Saiping , Shen Ping , Lu Xiaoyang , Xiao Yonghong
Published: November 2018

Background

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the rate of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria and antibiotic consumption intensity in 153 tertiary hospitals from China in 2014.

Methods

A retrospective study using national surveillance data from 2014 was conducted. Data on the annual consumption of each antibiotic, as well as the rate of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, were collected from each participating hospital, and the correlation between antibiotic consumption and carbapenem- resistant rate was analyzed.

Results

The overall antibiotic consumption intensity among the hospitals varied between 23.93 and 86.80 defined daily dosages (DDDs) per 100 patient-days (median, 46.30 DDDs per 100 patient-days). Cephalosporins were the most commonly used antibiotic, followed by quinolones, penicillins, and carbapenems, and the rate of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria from each hospital varied. The correlations between carbapenem consumption intensity and rate of carbapenem resistance revealed correlation factors of 0.271 for Escherichia coli (p < 0.01), 0.427 for Klebsiella pneumoniae (p < 0.01), 0.463 for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (p < 0.01), and 0.331 for Acinetobacter baumannii (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

A significant relationship existed between the carbapenem consumption and the rates of carbapenem-resistant gram negative bacilli. Rational use of carbapenems should be implemented to address the issue of carbapenem resistance in hospitals.
Students Who Fail to Achieve Predefined Research Goals May Still Experience Many Positive Outcomes as a Result of CURE Participation
Authors: Gin Logan E. , Rowland Ashley A. , Steinwand Blaire , Bruno John , Corwin Lisa A.
Published: November 2018

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) provide students opportunities to engage in research in a course. Aspects of CURE design, such as providing students opportunities to make discoveries, collaborate, engage in relevant work, and iterate to solve problems are thought to contribute to outcome achievement in CUREs. Yet how each of these elements contributes to specific outcomes is largely unexplored. This lack of understanding is problematic, because we may unintentionally underemphasize important aspects of CURE design that allow for achievement of highly valued outcomes when designing or teaching our courses. In this work, we take a qualitative approach and leverage unique circumstances in two offerings of a CURE to investigate how these design elements influence outcome achievement. One offering experienced many research challenges that increased engagement in iteration. This level of research challenge ultimately prevented achievement of predefined research goals. In the other offering, students experienced fewer research challenges and ultimately achieved predefined research goals. Our results suggest that, when students encounter research challenges and engage in iteration, they have the potential to increase their ability to navigate scientific obstacles. In addition, our results suggest roles for collaboration and autonomy, or directing one’s own work, in outcome achievement.
Low Concordance of Patient-Reported Outcomes With Clinical and Clinical Trial Documentation
Authors: Fares Charlene M. , Williamson Timothy J. , Theisen Matthew K. , Cummings Amy , Bornazyan Krikor , Carroll James , Spiegel Marshall L. , Stanton Annette L. , Garon Edward B.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Health care research increasingly relies on assessment of data extracted from electronic medical records (EMRs). Clinical trial adverse event (AE) logs and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) are sources of data often available in the context of specific research projects. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extent of data concordance from these sources.

Patients and Methods

Patients enrolled in clinical trials or receiving standard treatment for lung cancer (n = 62) completed validated questionnaires on physical and psychological symptoms at up to three assessment points. Temporally matched documentation was extracted from EMR notes and, for clinical trial participants (n = 41), AE logs. Evaluated data included symptom assessment, vital signs, medication logs, and laboratory values. Agreement (positive, negative) and Cohen’s κ coefficients were calculated to assess concordance of symptoms among sources, with PROs considered the gold standard.

Results

Patient-reported weight loss correlated significantly with clinical measurements ( t = 2.90; P = .02), and average number of PROs correlated negatively with albumin concentration, supporting PROs as the gold standard. Comparisons of PROs versus EMR yielded poor concordance across 11 physical symptoms, anxiety, and depressive symptoms (all κ < 0.40). Providers under-reported the presence of each symptom in the EMR compared with PROs. AE logs showed similarly poor concordance with PROs (all κ < 0.40, except shortness of breath). Negative agreement among sources was higher than positive agreement for all symptoms except pain.

Conclusion

There was poor concordance between EMR notes and AE logs with PROs. Findings suggest that EMR notes and AE logs may not be reliable sources for capturing physical and psychological symptoms experienced by patients with lung cancer, supporting use of PRO assessments in oncology practices.
Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy for Women With Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer: ASCO Clinical Practice Guideline Focused Update
Authors: Burstein Harold J. , Lacchetti Christina , Anderson Holly , Buchholz Thomas A. , Davidson Nancy E. , Gelmon Karen A. , Giordano Sharon H. , Hudis Clifford A. , Solky Alexander J. , Stearns Vered , Winer Eric P. , Griggs Jennifer J.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To update the ASCO clinical practice guideline on adjuvant endocrine therapy based on emerging data about the optimal duration of aromatase inhibitor (AI) treatment.

Methods

ASCO conducted a systematic review of randomized clinical trials from 2012 to 2018. Guideline recommendations were based on the Panel’s review of the evidence from six trials.

Results

The six included studies of AI treatment beyond 5 years of therapy demonstrated that extension of AI treatment was not associated with an overall survival advantage but was significantly associated with lower risks of breast cancer recurrence and contralateral breast cancer compared with placebo. Bone-related toxic effects were more common with extended AI treatment.

Recommendations

The Panel recommends that women with node-positive breast cancer receive extended therapy, including an AI, for up to a total of 10 years of adjuvant endocrine treatment. Many women with node-negative breast cancer should consider extended therapy for up to a total of 10 years of adjuvant endocrine treatment based on considerations of recurrence risk using established prognostic factors. The Panel noted that the benefits in absolute risk of reduction were modest and that, for lower-risk node-negative or limited node-positive cancers, an individualized approach to treatment duration that is based on considerations of risk reduction and tolerability was appropriate. A substantial portion of the benefit for extended adjuvant AI therapy was derived from prevention of second breast cancers. Shared decision making between clinicians and patients is appropriate for decisions about extended adjuvant endocrine treatment, including discussions about the absolute benefits in the reduction of breast cancer recurrence, the prevention of second breast cancers, and the impact of adverse effects of treatment. Additional information can be found at www.asco.org/breast-cancer-guidelines .
Processing parameters for electrospinning poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/titanium isopropoxide composite in a pump-free setup
Authors: Nyangasi Leah , Andala Dickson , Onindo Charles , Wanyonyi Alphonse , Chepngetich Josphine
Published: November 2018

Background: Electrospinning is a technique for producing nanofibers, useful in many fields of nanotechnology. The size and morphology of the nanofibers obtained depends on the polymer solution properties, the parameters of the equipment and the conditions of the surrounding. In almost all reported electrospinning set ups, a pump ,which regulates the flow of the polymer solution, has been included as one of the requirements. In this study, the effects of solution concentration, viscosity, voltage and the distance from the tip of the syringe to the aluminum collector on the morphology and diameters of poly(methyl methacrylate)(PMMA) fibers were investigated, using a pump-free electrospinning set up.

Methods: Varied PMMA concentration (50 -120 mg/mL), voltage (10-18 kV) and distance (5 – 18 cm) of electrospinning were studied and the optimum electrospinning conditions identified.  PMMA/ titanium isopropoxide solution of ratio 1:2 was prepared, electrospun at optimized conditions (15 kV, 18 cm, Dichloromethane/Dimethylformamide 60:40) and the fibers obtained analyzed using a scanning electron microscope.

Results: Solutions of PMMA whose concentrations were less than 50 mg/mL, produced beads on fibers, whereas those at ~ 100 mg/mL formed the best bead-free fibers of diameter 350±50 nm. The results showed a direct dependence of fiber diameter on the solution viscosity. Fibers of larger diameters were obtained when the distance from the tip of the syringe to the aluminum collector and voltage were increased but at higher distances (>18 kV) fewer fibers were collected. When the voltage was steadily increased, the fibers broadened and the diameters were non-uniform due to splaying and splitting. Increasing the distance between the pipette-tip and the collector from 10 to 18 cm resulted in reduced electric field which in turn yielded fewer fibers.

Conclusions: The results obtained in a pump free set-up were comparable to those eletrospun in the presence of a pump.
Burden of cancer in Kenya: types, infection-attributable and trends. A national referral hospital retrospective survey
Authors: Macharia Lucy Wanjiku , Mureithi Marianne Wanjiru , Anzala Omu
Published: November 2018

Background:Cancer in Africa is an emerging health problem. In Kenya it ranks third as a cause of death after infectious and cardiovascular diseases. Nearly 31% of the total cancer burden in sub-Saharan Africa is attributable to infectious agents. Information on cancer burden is scanty in Kenya and this study aimed to provide comprehensive hospital based data to inform policies.

Method:A cross-sectional retrospective survey was conducted at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) from 2008 to 2012.  Data was obtained from the patients files and the study was approved by the KNH/University of Nairobi and MTRH Ethics and Research Committees.  

Results: In KNH, the top five cancers were: cervical (62, 12.4%), breast (59, 11.8%), colorectal (31, 6.2%), chronic leukemia (27, 5.4%) and stomach cancer 26 (5.2%). Some 154 (30.8%) of these cancers were associated with infectious agents, while an estimated 138 (27.6%) were attributable to infections. Cancers of the cervix (62, 12.4%), stomach (26, 5.2%) and nasopharynx (17, 3.4%) were the commonest infection-associated cancers. In MTRH, the five common types of cancers were Kaposi’s sarcoma (93, 18.6%), breast (77, 15.4%), cervical (41, 8.2%), non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (37, 7.4%) and colorectal, chronic leukemia and esophageal cancer all with 27 (5.4%). Some 241 (48.2%) of these cancers were associated with infectious agents, while an estimated 222 (44.4%) were attributable to infections. Kaposi’s sarcoma (93, 18.6%), cancer of the cervix (41, 8.2%) and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (37, 7.4%) were the commonest infection-associated cancers.

Conclusion:Our results suggest that30.8% and 48.2% of the total cancer cases sampled in KNH and MTRH respectively were associated with infectious agents, while 27.6% and 44.4% were attributable to infections in the two hospitals respectively. Reducing the burden of infection-attributable cancers can translate to a reduction of the overall cancer burden.
Breaking point: the genesis and impact of structural variation in tumours
Authors: Ewing Ailith , Semple Colin
Published: November 2018

Somatic structural variants undoubtedly play important roles in driving tumourigenesis. This is evident despite the substantial technical challenges that remain in accurately detecting structural variants and their breakpoints in tumours and in spite of our incomplete understanding of the impact of structural variants on cellular function. Developments in these areas of research contribute to the ongoing discovery of structural variation with a clear impact on the evolution of the tumour and on the clinical importance to the patient. Recent large whole genome sequencing studies have reinforced our impression of each tumour as a unique combination of mutations but paradoxically have also discovered similar genome-wide patterns of single-nucleotide and structural variation between tumours. Statistical methods have been developed to deconvolute mutation patterns, or signatures, that recur across samples, providing information about the mutagens and repair processes that may be active in a given tumour. These signatures can guide treatment by, for example, highlighting vulnerabilities in a particular tumour to a particular chemotherapy. Thus, although the complete reconstruction of the full evolutionary trajectory of a tumour genome remains currently out of reach, valuable data are already emerging to improve the treatment of cancer.
Optimization of nutrient media for sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L.) vine multiplication in sandponics: Unlocking the adoption and utilization of improved varieties
Authors: Makokha Phabian , Matasyoh Lexa G. , Ssali Reuben T. , Kiplagat Oliver K. , Wanjala Bramwel W. , Low Jan
Published: November 2018

Background: Sweetpotato, being a vegetatively propagated crop is prone to seed degeneration, and a continuous source for high quality sweetpotato seed is critical for an efficient seed system.  In most Sub-Saharan African countries, the National Agricultural Research Systems use tissue culture to produce limited quantity of pre-basic sweetpotato seed which is then used as starting material to maintain and produce basic seed in mini-screen houses, net tunnels or open field multiplication in low-virus pressure areas by either the private seed companies or vine multipliers. Soil is the predominant media for pre-basic seed multiplication. Multiplying pre-basic sweetpotato seed in sand with fertigation, also known as ‘sandponics’ is a possible opportunity towards sustainable production of pre-basic sweetpotato seed. It would be beneficial to examine the feasibility and the potential to replace soil system with ‘sandponics’ for growing pre-basic sweetpotato seed.

Methods: Pot experiments were conducted to study how sweetpotato vine propagation is affected by sequentially omitting nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, sulfur and boron from fertilizer applications on cv. Kabode. The experiment was laid in a randomized complete block design with five levels of the factor fertilizer, replicated four times with two blocks. The effect of fertilization of nitrogen at (0, 100, 150, 200 & 250), phosphorus at (0, 30, 60, 90 & 120), calcium at (0, 100, 200, 300 & 400), sulfur at (0, 30, 60, 90 & 120) and boron at (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 & 0.4) ppm on sweetpotato vegetative growth parameters was measured 45 days after planting.

Results: The obtained results showed that application of 200, 60, 200, 120 and 0.3 ppm of N, P, Ca, S and B respectively recorded the highest values in sweetpotato vegetative growth parameters.  

Conclusions: These results imply that pre-basic sweetpotato vine yields in sandponics could be increased by using this optimized media.
Remarks on Stable Formulas in Intuitionistic Logic
Authors: Alizadeh Majid , Bibak Ali
Published: November 2018

ONNILLI-formulas were introduced in [2] and were shown to be the set of formulas that are preserved under monotonic images of descriptive or Kripke frames. As a result, ONNILLI is a syntactically defined set of formulas that axiomatize all stable logics. In this paper, among other things, by proving the uniform interpolation property for ONNILLI we show that ONNILLI is exactly the set of formulas that are preserved in monotonic bijections of descriptive or (finite) Kripke models. This resolves an open problem in [2].
Percutaneous fixation of thoracolumbar vertebral fractures
Authors: Sebaaly Amer , Rizkallah Maroun , Riouallon Guillaume , Wang Zhi , Moreau Pierre Emmanuel , Bachour Falah , Maalouf Ghassan
Published: November 2018

Surgical treatment of patients with thoracolumbar vertebral fracture without neurological deficit is still controversial. Management of vertebral fracture with percutaneous fixation was first reported in 2004. Advantages of percutaneous fixation are: less tissue dissection; decreased post-operative pain; decreased bleeding and operative time (depending on the steep learning curve); better screw positioning with fluoroscopy compared with an open freehand technique; and a decreased infection rate. The limitations of percutaneous fixation of vertebral fractures include increased radiation exposure to the patient and the surgeon, together with the steep learning curve for this technique. Adding a screw at the level of the fractured vertebra has the advantages of incorporating fewer motion segments with less operative time and bleeding. This also increases the axial, sagittal and torsional stiffness of the construct. Percutaneous fixation alone without grafting is sufficient for treating type A and B1 (AO classification) thoracolumbar fractures with satisfactory results concerning kyphosis reduction when compared with open instrumentation and fusion and with open fixation. Type C and B2 fractures (ligamentous injuries) should undergo fusion since the ligamentous healing is mechanically weak, increasing the risk of instability. This review offers a detailed description of percutaneous screw insertion and discusses the advantages and disadvantages.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2018;3:604-613. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.3.170026.
Rejecting the West? Homonegative attitudes and political orientations in contemporary Eastern Europe
Authors: Bolzendahl Catherine , Gracheva Ksenia
Published: November 2018

Homonegative attitudes are strikingly high in Eastern Europe, and a schism among an enlarged Europe. To understand this, we examine the comparative and over-time role of individual political orientations. Using the World Values Survey, we investigate how these relate to homonegativity over time (1995–2014) in eight Eastern European nations, compared to a sample of seven Western nations. Individuals in all nations who hold nationalist and authoritarian values and are unengaged in politics have stronger homonegative attitudes. National pride and support for democracy are particularly important for Eastern Europeans. Cleavages in democratic values and narratives may be increasingly important over time.
Characteristics of boreal and hemiboreal herb-rich forests as habitats for polypore fungi
Authors: Hämäläinen Karoliina , Tahvanainen Teemu , Junninen Kaisa
Published: November 2018

Herb-rich forests are often considered biodiversity hotspots in the boreal zone but their fungal assemblages, particularly those of wood-decaying fungi, remain poorly known. We studied herb-rich forests as habitats for polypores, a distinct group of wood-decaying fungi, and assessed the importance of tree- and stand-scale variables for polypore species richness, abundance, and diversity, including red-listed species. The data include 71 herb-rich forest stands in Finland and 4797 dead wood items, on which we made 2832 observations of 101 polypore species. Dead-wood diversity was the most important variable explaining polypore species richness and diversity, whereas increasing latitude had a negative effect. Red-listed species showed a positive response to the abundance of large-diameter dead wood, which, especially birch, supported also high general abundance of polypores. The composition of polypore assemblages reflected their host-tree species. The red-listed species did not show explicit patterns in the ordination space. Compared to old-growth spruce forests, herb-rich forests seem to host lower polypore species richness and less red-listed species. However, because of high proportion of deciduous trees in the dead wood profile, herb-rich forests have a clear complementary effect on polypore assemblages in boreal forest landscapes.
Examination of the psychological commitment to team of the students of Faculty of Sports Sciences
Authors: Bozyiğit Elif , Doğan Furkan
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this research is to examine the psychological commitment to team of the students of the Faculty of Sport Sciences. The sample of the study consisted of 242 students (97 female, 145 male) in the Physical Education and Sports Teaching, Coaching Education, Recreation and Sports Management Departments. “Personal Information Form” which was created by researchers and the Turkish version (Eskiler et al., 2011) of “Psychological Commitment to Team” (PCT) scale which was developed by Mahony et al. (2000) were used as a data collection tool in this research. Mann Whitney U test and Kruskal Wallis H test were used to analyze the data. Analyzes were made on the total score of PCT. For this study, Cronbach’s Alpha was found as .80 for the total score. As the result of analyzes, the level of “psychological commitment to team” of the students was found to be high. While there was no significant difference between gender and age variables with the scores obtained from PCT scale, there was a significant difference between department, licensed product purchases, years of being a sports fan, desire to work and possibility of working with the scores obtained from PCT scale. As a result, hypothesis 1, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 were accepted, while hypothesis 2 and 3 were rejected.
Baseline characteristics of gender dysphoric youth
Authors: Brocksmith Victoria M. , Alradadi Rasha S. , Chen Melinda , Eugster Erica A.
Published: November 2018

Background

Limited information is available regarding baseline characteristics of children and adolescents with gender dysphoria (GD). The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe baseline characteristics of pediatric patients referred for GD.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients with GD referred to the pediatric endocrine clinic between 2002 and 2017 was conducted. Body mass index (BMI) percentiles and z-scores were calculated based on height and weight at the initial visit.

Results

Seventy-eight patients aged 14.9±2.37 years were identified. Of these, affirmed gender was more often male than female (63% vs. 37%, p=0.024). Although no difference was seen in average BMI z-scores between female to male (FTM) and male to female (MTF) patients, approximately 50% were overweight or obese. A higher incidence of anxiety was present in FTM compared with MTF youth (p=0.05). Fifty-six patients were referred in January 2014 or later, of whom 27% had a history of early expression of GD compared with 55% of those seen prior to 2014 (p=0.061).

Conclusions

The high prevalence of overweight in TG youth at baseline represents a potential risk for adverse health consequences. There appears to be a change in the age of first manifestation of GD over time.