bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Qualified Biolayer Interferometry Avidity Measurements Distinguish the Heterogeneity of Antibody Interactions with Plasmodium falciparum Circumsporozoite Protein Antigens
Authors: Dennison S. Moses , Reichartz Matthew , Seaton Kelly E. , Dutta Sheetij , Wille-Reece Ulrike , Hill Adrian V. S. , Ewer Katie J. , Rountree Wes , Sarzotti-Kelsoe Marcella , Ozaki Daniel A. , Alam S. Munir , Tomaras Georgia D. 
Published: July 2018

Abstract
Ab avidity is a measure of the overall strength of Ab–Ag interactions and hence is important for understanding the functional efficiency of Abs. In vaccine evaluations, Ab avidity measurements can provide insights into immune correlates of protection and generate hypotheses regarding mechanisms of protection to improve vaccine design to achieve higher levels of efficacy. The commonly used Ab avidity assays require the use of chaotropic reagents to measure avidity index. In this study, using real-time detection of Ab–Ag binding by biolayer interferometry (BLI) technique, we have developed a qualified assay for measuring avidity of vaccine-induced Abs specific for Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (CSP) Ags. Human mAb derived from plasmablasts of recipients of RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S), the most advanced malaria vaccine candidate, were used in the assay development to measure Ag-specific binding responses and rate constants of association and dissociation. The optimized BLI binding assay demonstrated 1) good precision (percentage of coefficient of variation &lt;20), 2) high specificity, 3) a lower limit of detection and quantitation in the 0.3–3.3 nM range, and 4) a range of linearity up to 50–100 nM for the CSP Ags tested. Analysis of polyclonal sera of malaria vaccinees demonstrated the suitability of this method to distinguish among vaccinees and rank Ab responses by avidity. These results demonstrate that precise, specific, and sensitive BLI measurements of Ab avidity in polyclonal sera from malaria vaccinees can map Ab response heterogeneity and potentially help to determine the role of Ab avidity as an immune correlate of protection for vaccines.
Exploring the causal relationship between the antecedents and consequences of talent management for early career academics in South African higher education institutions
Authors: Lesenyeho Dorcas L. , Barkhuizen Nicolene E. , Schutte Nico E. 
Published: July 2018

Orientation: South African public higher education institutions (HEIs) are facing significant challenges to attract and retain quality early career academics. Therefore, the need exists to explore the potential antecedents and consequences of effective talent management practices for early career academics.Research purpose: The objective of this study was to explore the causal relationship between the antecedents (i.e. talent attraction; management support) and consequences (organisational commitment; intention to quit) for early career academics employed in selected South African public HEIs.Motivation for the study: Research using a holistic approach for the effective talent management of early career academics is lacking.Research approach/design and method: Quantitative data were gathered by administering a Talent Attraction Tool, a Talent Development Measure, a Talent Retention Diagnostic Tool and the Organisational Commitment Measure, using a sample of early career academics in public South African HEIs (N = 117).Main findings: The results showed that management support, talent development, compensation and recognition, and satisfaction with institutional practices significantly enhances the organisational commitment of early career academics and reduces their turnover intentions.Practical/managerial implications: The results highlight the importance of management support in enhancing the effective application of talent management practices among early career academics. Higher education managers are encouraged to implement talent development opportunities and adequate compensation and recognition practices to retain early career academics.Contribution/value-add: The research provides useful information on how talent management practices can be effectively applied to enhance the commitment and retention of early career academics.
The epidemiology, treatment, and determinants of outcome of primary head and neck cancers at the Jos University Teaching Hospital
Authors: Adoga Adeyi A. , Kokong Daniel D. , Ma’an Nuhu D. , Silas Olugbenga A. , Dauda Ayuba M. , Yaro John P. , Mugu Joyce G. , Mgbachi Chukwunonso J. , Yabak Caleb J. 
Published: July 2018

Abstract
Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the epidemiology, treatment, and factors that determine the outcomes of head and neck cancers (HNC). Patients and Methods: Retrospective analytical review of HNC managed at the Jos University Teaching Hospital between May 2007 and April 2017 using the International Classification of Diseases version 10. Results: Of 487 head and neck neoplasms, 129 (26.5%) were malignant and 122 health records met the criteria for analysis consisting of 83 (68.0%) males and 39 (32.0%) females aged 13 years to 85 years (mean = 51 years; standard deviation = ±16.0 years). The most common presenting feature was nasal obstruction (n = 47; 38.5%). The most common tumor site was the nasopharynx (n = 34; 27.9%). Mean duration of symptoms was 13.3 months. Alcohol (P = 0.02), cigarette smoking (P = 0.01), and cooking wood smoke (P = 0.01) were associated with advanced tumor stage. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common histological type. Posttreatment complication rate was 47.5%. Lost to follow-up rate was 55.7%. The lungs were the most common distant metastatic site. The case fatality rate was 18.0%. Conclusion: HNC constitutes almost a quarter of head and neck tumors affecting twice the number of males in their sixth decade with nasopharyngeal cancers being the most common in both genders. Several modifiable variables are noted to target appropriate future cancer education for lifestyle modification, screening for early detection and treatment.
Palliative care and end-of-life measure outcomes: Experience of a tertiary care institute from South India
Authors: Adusumilli Praveen , Nayak Lingaraj , Viswanath Vidya , Digumarti Leela , Digumarti Raghunadha Rao 
Published: July 2018

Abstract
Introduction: Desisting from disease directed treatment in the past weeks of life is a quality criterion in oncology service. Patients with advanced cancer have unrealistic expectations from chemotherapy and hold on to it as a great source of hope. Many oncologists continue futile and unnecessary treatments, instead of conveying to the patients the lack of benefit, resulting in delayed referral for palliative care (PC). Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of case records from June 2014 to December 2015. The primary objective was to study, how far back in time terminally ill cancer patients received definitive cancer directed therapy (DCDT). Apart from patient demographics, the diagnosis, stage, and details of DCDT, and death were captured. PC referral data were recorded. DCDT to death was taken as treatment-free interval (TFI). Analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20. Results: A total of 292 case records were evaluated. Seventy-three had inadequate treatment details. Hence, 219 records were analyzed. PC referral was done in 78.5% of patients. Only best supportive care (BSC) without any DCDT was given in 27 patients. The most common reason for BSC was a poor performance status in 92.5%. The median time from PC referral till death was 43.5 days (range: 1–518 days). Chemotherapy was the most common DCDT in 52.9% of patients. The median time from DCDT and death was 49 days (range: 0–359 days). Cervical and ovarian cancers patients had the longest TFI ; shortest in unknown primary. Most patients died at home (70.4%). Patients receiving PC preferred home or hospice as place of death. Of the 80 patients given hospice care, 39 (36.5%) died in the hospice. Conclusion: While DCDT needs to be started at the right time, it should also be discontinued when futile. Early involvement of the PC team, even while patients are on DCDT makes the transition smoother and more meaningful.
Metastatic Gastric cancer: Real world scenario from a developing country
Authors: Ganguly Sandip , Biswas Bivas , Ghosh Joydeep , Dabkara Deepak 
Published: July 2018

Abstract
Aim: Data on epidemiology and outcome in metastatic stomach carcinoma patients from India are scarce. We aimed to evaluate clinical features and treatment outcome in patients treated at our center. Materials and Methods: This is a single institutional review of metastatic gastric carcinoma patients treated between May 2011 and October 2016. Patients who received at least one cycle of chemotherapy were included for modified intent-to-treat survival analysis. Results: A total of 143 patients were diagnosed with metastatic stomach carcinoma with a median age of 56 years (range: 29–86). The most common symptoms were abdominal pain in 112 (78%) patients. The most common site was body in 81 (57%) patients. Common site of metastasis was peritoneum in 86 (60%) and liver in (62%). Seventy-one (50%) patients were eligible for survival analysis. Common chemotherapy regimens were capecitabine-cisplatin in 27 (38%) and EOX in 22 (31%) patients. Survival status could not be assessed in 29 (41%) patients who lost to follow-up. After a median follow-up 9.7 months (range: 0.5–37.7), median progression-free survival (PFS) was 7.9 months (range: 0.5–23.9) and median overall survival (OS) was 12.2 months (range: 0.5–37.7). The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) ≥2 and the presence of linitis plastica showed a trend toward inferior PFS (P = 0.052 and 0.053, respectively) only in univariate analysis. Female sex and ECOG PS ≥2 predicted inferior OS in both univariate and multivariate analysis (P = 0.012, 0.02 and 0.03 and 0.05, respectively). Conclusions: Platinum-based doublet chemotherapy was used in the majority of patients. The overall outcome was comparable to that of the available literature. Female sex and ECOG PS ≥2 predicted the inferior outcome.
Efficacy and safety of nimotuzumab in unresectable, recurrent, and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck: A hospital-based retrospective evidence
Authors: Subramanian Sundaram , Sridharan Nithya , Balasundaram V. , Chaudhari Sameer 
Published: July 2018

Abstract
Context: Role of nimotuzumab in locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) is well established in India; however, no clinical evidence is available for its role in recurrent and/or metastatic HNC. Aims: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of nimotuzumab when added to standard treatment in unresectable, recurrent, and metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) Settings and Design: Hospital records of 14 patients diagnosed with recurrent and/or metastatic HNC with histologically confirmed squamous cell carcinoma and being treated with nimotuzumab along with standard treatments from December 2010 to December 2016 were retrospectively evaluated. Subjects and Methods: The tumor response rate and overall survival (OS) were analyzed. Toxicity and adverse events (AEs) were assessed as per common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) v 4. Results: Oral cavity was most commonly involved region followed by hypopharynx and oropharynx. At 24 weeks after completion of treatment, overall response rate (complete response (CR) + partial response (PR)) was 75%. Survival rate at 1, 2, and 3 years was 77.80%, 64.81%, and 64.81%, respectively. At a median follow-up of 15.17 months, median OS was not reached. All AEs were either Grade I (66.7%) or Grade II (33.3%). No Grade III or Grade IV AEs were observed. No added toxicity was observed due to nimotuzumab. Conclusions: In the first of its kind study, the addition of nimotuzumab to standard treatment showed promising response rate as well as survival outcomes in recurrent and/or metastatic SCCHN patients without producing additional toxicity.
The effect of verbal feedback on biomechanical performance during swimming ergometry
Authors: Zatoń Krystyna , Cześniewicz Izabela , Szczepan Stefan 
Published: July 2018

PurposeThe aim was to investigate the effects of verbal feedback on biomechanical performance variables during swimming ergometry.MethodsThe total of 100 healthy and physically active males (19.56 ± 1.32 years of age, 181.23 ± 4.35 cm in height, and 70.54 ± 8.6 kg in weight) participated in the study. The subjects were randomized into 2 groups (experimental and control); 2 sessions were administered. In the first session (pre-test), both groups completed the butterfly stroke on a swimming ergometer in identical conditions. In the second session (post-test), the experimental group received verbal instructions that conveyed kinaesthetic information. To rationalize verbal information, the criteria of efficient didactic communication were applied (syntax, semantics, and pragmatics). Biomechanical performance was monitored continuously by measuring work output (J), total force (N), power output (W), and total distance of hand travel (cm).ResultsDifferences in the average values of the analysed variables between groups and samples were determined with a multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) (<i>p</i> < 0.05). The analysis of the results showed that the inclusion of verbal feedback resulted in statistically significant increases between pre- and post-test in all biomechanical variables in the experimental group, as well as in significant between-group differences post-test.ConclusionsAppropriately prepared verbal cues following the criteria of efficient didactic communication may improve biomechanical performance during movement execution on a swimming ergometer.
The contextual interference effect on the performance of fundamental motor skills in adults
Authors: Jimenez-Diaz Judith , Morera-Castro Maria , Salazar Walter 
Published: July 2018

PurposeThe aim of the study was to analyse the effect of contextual interference on acquisition and retention for jump and throw in adults.MethodsThe participants (<i>n</i> = 50) were randomly assigned to 3 groups: blocked practice (BP), random practice (RP), and control group (CG). During each practice session, the BP group performed 20 trials of one skill, followed by 20 trials of the second skill, while the RP group performed 20 trials for each skill in a random order. The CG participated in physical activities that did not include any of these two skills. The intervention consisted of 7 sessions. Skill performance was assessed with the Test of Fundamental Motor Skills for Adults – for pretest, acquisition, and retention. The test has content validity established by logical validity, as well as documented intra-class reliability (calculated via test-retest) and inter-rater reliability.ResultsA two-way ANOVA [group (3) × measurement (3)] with repeated measures in the last factor revealed a significant interaction in throw (<i>F</i> = 5.81; <i>p</i> = 0.001) and jump (<i>F</i> = 10.92; <i>p</i> = 0.001). Post-hoc analyses indicated that the BP and RP groups improved from pretest to acquisition. The CG was statistically significantly different from the experimental groups in the acquisition and retention phase. The RP and BP groups were not statistically different in any phase, both of the skills being assessed.ConclusionsNo contextual interference effect on fundamental motor skills in adults was found. Nonetheless, the results suggest that RP and BP improved performance for both skills.
Basketball jump shot performed by adults and children
Authors: Okazaki Victor Hugo Alves , Rodacki André Luiz Félix 
Published: July 2018

PurposeThe study compared the performance of basketball jump shots between children and adults.MethodsA kinematic analysis was used to evaluate shots performance (2D; sagittal plane; 100 Hz). A biomechanical model (6 points and 4 body segments) provided the shoulder, elbow, and wrist angular displacements and velocities.ResultsChildren performed simultaneous movements of the shoulder-elbow-wrist joints to release the ball. Adults executed a countermovement around the elbow and wrist, but with greater constraint around the shoulder joint. This strategy may have allowed adults to achieve higher release, smaller variability, and better accuracy.ConclusionsDifferences in performance between adults and children were explained by the participants’ physical characteristics and time of practice (experience).
Physical fitness and health-related quality of life in Brazilian adolescents: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Pires-Júnior Raymundo , Coledam Diogo Henrique Constantino , Greca Joăo Paulo de Aguiar , Arruda Gustavo Aires de , Teixeira Marcio , Oliveira Arli Ramos de 
Published: July 2018

PurposeTo compare physical fitness according to dimensions of Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) in Brazilian adolescents.MethodsA cross-sectional study of 588 adolescents (263 female) aged 12 to 17 years from a private school in Londrina, Paraná, Brazil. HRQOL was assessed by the Kidscreen-52 questionnaire. Four components of physical fitness were assessed: adiposity (sum of tricipital and subscapular skinfolds), muscular strength (handgrip test), flexibility (sit-and-reach test), and cardiorespiratory fitness (20m Shuttle run test). Differences in physical fitness across terciles of HRQOL were assessed using Analysis of Covariance.ResultsAdolescents with higher scores (3<sup>rd</sup> Tercile) of HRQOL in the physical well-being dimension presented higher cardiorespiratory fitness and lower skinfold thickness (<i>p</i> < 0.05) compared to adolescents with lower scores (1<sup>st</sup>Tercile). Those with higher scores in psychological well-being and social support and peer relation dimensions also presented lower skinfold thickness (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Performance in handgrip strength and flexibility did not differ across terciles of HRQOL in any dimension analyzed (<i>p</i> > 0.05).ConclusionsAdiposity and cardiorespiratory fitness seem to contribute to the physical well-being dimension of HQOL in Brazilian adolescents. Furthermore, adiposity also contributes to psychological well-being and social support and peer relations. Adiposity and cardiorespiratory fitness should be monitored to avoid low HRQOL in Brazilian adolescents.
Validity and reliability of shoulder strength assessment during scaption, internal rotation and external rotation using an anchored, non-modified sphygmomanometer
Authors: Barbosa Alexandre Carvalho , Intelangelo Leonardo , Bordachar Diego , Fernandes Ingrid , Cardoso Denise , Fernandes Ilha , Porfírio Wyngrid , Felício Diogo 
Published: July 2018

PurposeTo determine the validity, intra-rater reliability, and inter-rater reliability of an anchored sphygmomanometer for assessing shoulder strength during scaption, lateral rotation, and medial rotation. The hand-held dynamometer (HHD) was used as the standard measurement tool for this purpose.MethodsFifty subjects (23 years old ±3 years) were included in the validity study. Shoulder strength was assessed using an HHD and a sphygmomanometer, both anchored to a fixed ladder by an inextensible belt. Twenty-three subjects (25 years old ±3 years) were included in the reliability study. Two raters assessed strength, each taking two measurements one week apart, using the fixed sphygmomanometer.ResultsValidity results showed high to very high magnitude correlations, and no differences were found between the sphygmomanometer and the HHD measurements or among trials. Intra-class coefficient of correlation (ICC) showed high reliability between measurement tools and among trials. Intra-rater results showed very high ICC, very high correlation, low coefficient of variation (CV) with adequate standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC). Inter-rater results showed moderate to high ICC, high to very high correlation, acceptable SEM and CV, but not adequate MDC. The anchored sphygmomanometer is a low-cost tool that provides objective measurements. The results obtained from the anchored sphygmomanometer were found to be similar to those obtained from an HHD, which has a valid predictive model.ConclusionsThe sphygmomanometer is suitable for monitoring shoulder strength during scaption, internal rotation, and external rotation. The anchored sphygmomanometer enables coaches and physical therapists to establish the maximal voluntary isometric contraction and monitor exercise program outcomes at a low cost. However, caution is recommended when interpreting results between raters.
Semidiurnal solar tide differences between fall and spring transition times in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Conte J. Federico , Chau Jorge L. , Laskar Fazlul I. , Stober Gunter , Schmidt Hauke , Brown Peter 
Published: July 2018

Abstract. We present a study of the semidiurnal solar tide (S2) during the
fall and spring transition times in the Northern Hemisphere. The tides have
been obtained from wind measurements provided by three meteor radars located
at Andenes (69∘ N, 16∘ E), Juliusruh (54∘ N,
13∘ E) and Tavistock (42∘ N, 81∘ W). During the
fall, S2 is characterized by a sudden and pronounced decrease occurring every
year and at all height levels. The spring transition also shows a decrease in
S2, but not sudden and that ascends from lower to higher altitudes during an
interval of ∼ 15 to 40 days. To assess contributions of different
semidiurnal tidal components, we have examined a 20-year free-run simulation
by the Hamburg Model of the Neutral and Ionized Atmosphere (HAMMONIA). We
found that the differences exhibited by the S2 tide between equinox times are
mainly due to distinct behaviors of the migrating semidiurnal and the
non-migrating westward-propagating wave number 1 tidal components (SW2 and
SW1, respectively). Specifically, during the fall both SW2 and SW1 decrease,
while during the springtime SW2 decreases but SW1 remains approximately
constant or decreases only slightly. The decrease shown by SW1 during the
fall occurs later than that of SW2 and S2, which indicates that the behavior
of S2 is mainly driven by the migrating component. Nonetheless, the influence
of SW1 is necessary to explain the behavior of S2 during the spring. In
addition, a strong shift in the phase of S2 (of SW2 in the simulations) is
also observed during the fall. Our meteor radar wind measurements show more
gravity wave activity in the fall than during the spring, which might be
indicating that the fall decrease is partly due to interactions between SW2
and gravity waves.