bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Towards personalized surveillance for head and neck cancer patients.
Authors: Alders Sven Thomas , Hermens Rosella 
Published: November 2017

116 Background: Optimal follow-up care for head and neck cancer (HCN) patients has been subject of an ongoing debate. In the Netherlands, the current follow-up schedule is based on a ‘one-size fits all’ concept, and lacks evidence. Additionally, this standardized follow-up fails to reflect the heterogeneity of tumors within HNC. Besides the need of more evidence, improvements should be made by using a more person-centred approach. In this study, we aimed to explore the needs, preferences and values of HNC patient regarding sub-components of follow-up care (form, content, duration, frequency, and type of care provider). Methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with 13 HNC patients (inclusion until saturation) in order to explore the needs, preferences and values of HNC regarding their follow-up care. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and qualitatively analyzed using the eight-dimension Picker model. Results: During follow-up, patients prefer traditional face-to-face appointments, where they have to be physically present at the hospital. Alternative forms (e.g. telephone or Skype-related forms) may only be preferable under certain circumstances ( form). Physical examinations should be leading during these appointments, to look for signs of recurrence ( content). Patients mentioned that information on prognoses and the physical constraints as a consequence of treatment is important during follow-up appointments ( content). In the beginning of the follow-up, a high frequency of appointments was preferred ( duration & frequency). Preferably, follow-up care takes place in the specialized centers ( location). A predominant role has been assigned to the primary treating physician. Additionally, qualified personnel is needed in the continuation and relocation of follow-up care for HNC patient ( type of care provider). Conclusions: The results of this study will enable us to better tailor care to the specific needs, preferences and values of HNC patients. Further research is needed to determine if the results are representative. In the new personalized follow-up, there should be a balance between evidence based options and the needs, preferences and values of patients and different care providers within HNC care.
The “Promoting Resilience in Stress Management” (PRISM) intervention for adolescents and young adults: A pilot randomized controlled trial.
Authors: Rosenberg Abby R. , Bradford Miranda , Klein Victoria , Etsekson Nicole , Wharton Claire M , Shaffer Michele , Yi-Frazier Joyce P. 
Published: November 2017

176 Background: Adolescents and Young Adults (AYAs) with cancer are at risk for poor psychosocial outcomes, perhaps because they have yet to learn the skills needed to navigate the burdens of illness. We aimed to determine if a novel, brief, age-appropriate, skills-based intervention would improve psychosocial outcomes. Methods: “Promoting Resilience in Stress Management” (PRISM) is a manualized, brief intervention targeting stress management, goal-setting, cognitive reframing, and meaning-making. It consists of 4, 30-60 minute, in-person, 1:1 sessions plus a facilitated family-meeting. English-speaking AYAs (ages 12-25 years) with new or newly recurrent cancer were randomized to receive either PRISM or non-directive usual psychosocial care. Participants completed patient-reported outcome (PRO) surveys at the time of enrollment and 6 months later. We used mixed effects regression modeling to estimate associations between PRISM and the primary outcome (patient-reported resilience, measured by the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale [CDRISC-10]) and secondary outcomes (health-related quality of life [PedsQL 4.0 Quality of Life Inventory], hope [Snyder Hope Scale], and psychological distress [Kessler-6 Psychological Distress Scale]) at 6 months. Results: N = 100 AYAs enrolled (78% of approached, n = 50 PRISM, n = 50 usual care) and 92 completed baseline responses (48 PRISM and 44 usual care). Of those who completed baseline, 73% were aged 13-17 years and 27% aged 18-25 years, and 43% were female. Attrition was similar in each arm and primarily due to medical complication and/or death; n = 36 (72%) PRISM and n = 38 (76%) usual care participants completed 6-month PROs. After adjusting for baseline scores, PRISM was associated with improvements in all instruments: Resilience (+2.3, 95% CI 0.7,4.0), quality of life (+6.3 (95% CI -0.8, 13.5), hope (+2.8, 95% CI 0.5, 5.1), and distress (-1.6, 95% CI -3.3, 0.0). Conclusions: A targeted intervention targeting skills for AYAs with cancer was effective in improving patient-centered outcomes. Clinical trial information: NCT02340884.
Risk of health-related quality of life events from pain and fatigue among patients with hormone receptor-positive HER-2 negative metastatic breast cancer treated with CDK 4/6 inhibitor.
Authors: Han Myat M. , Thein Kyaw Zin , Zaw Myo , Tun Aung , D'Cunha Paul , Hardwicke Fred L. , Jones Catherine 
Published: November 2017

215 Background: Molecular heterogeneity in breast cancer has led to increasing attention in the role of cell cycle signaling especially the cyclins and their associated proteins, cycle-dependent kinases (CDK), in carcinogenesis and treatment resistance in hormone receptor-positive metastatic breast cancer. Many CDK 4/6 agents have been proven beneficial. Nevertheless, health-related quality of life from pain and fatigue remains a concern. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCT) to determine these risks. Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE databases and meeting abstracts from inception through June 2017 were queried. RCTs that mention back pain, pain in arms and legs, arthralgia and fatigue as adverse effects were incorporated in the analysis. Mantel-Haenszel method was used to calculate the estimated pooled risk ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI). Random effects model was applied. Results: A total of 2671 patients with hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer from four phase 3 studies and one phase 2 study were eligible for analysis. The study arms used palbociclib-letrozole, palbociclib-fulvestrant, ribociclib-letrozole and abemaciclib-fulvestrant while the control arms utilized placebo in combination with letrozole or fulvestrant. The relative risk (RR) of all-grade back pain was 0.97 (95% CI: 0.81- 1.16; p = 0.76); all-grade pain in arms and legs was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.74- 1.30; p = 0.90); all-grade arthralgia was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.75- 1.27; p = 0.88); and all-grade fatigue was 1.35 (95% CI: 1.20- 1.52; p < 0.0001). The RR of high-grade back pain was 1.47 (95% CI: 0.51- 4.23; p = 0.46); high-grade pain in arms and legs was 0.12 (95% CI: 0.02- 0.73; p = 0.02); high-grade arthralgia was 1.14 (95% CI: 0.40- 3.26; p = 0.79); and high-grade fatigue was 3.06 (95% CI: 1.41- 6.61; p = 0.004). Conclusions: Patients on CDK4/6 inhibitor-based regimens experienced a significant increase in all-grades of fatigue with a relative risk of 3.06 for grade 3 and 4 fatigue whereas they noted a decrease in high-grade pain in the arms and legs favoring CDK 4/6 inhibitor based regimens.
Is it possible for caregivers to administer subcutaneous hydration to patients with advanced cancer at home? Feasibility and perceptions.
Authors: Grez Monica , Perez-Cruz Pedro , Rodriguez-Nunez Alfredo , Villouta Francisca , Jaña Carolina , Maldonado Armando , Bruera Eduardo 
Published: November 2017

82 Background: Loss of oral route is common in patients with advanced cancer, particularly during end-of-life (EOL). EOL hydration may prevent the onset of symptoms associated with dehydration, mainly delirium, or decrease the severity of symptoms when they are present. Subcutaneous hydration (SCH) is the best way to hydrate the patients at home although it is infrequently used. Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of receiving SCH at home administered by caregivers without previous experience and their subsequent perceptions. Methods: A prospective study of 52 patients with advanced cancer enrolled in a Home Palliative Care Program and their primary caregivers. Caregivers of patients were trained in SCH administration at home. Telephone controls were performed at 48 hours and at 7 days to assess adherence and complications. One month after the death, a survey to explore caregiver perceptions of SCH was performed. Results: Fifty-two patients were included, the median days with SCH were 12 (2-173) and 100% were able to maintain SCH for all the time indicated or until the patient died. The proportion of caregivers who reported that administering SCH had been easy or very easy were 35 (78%) and 26 (96%) at 48 hrs and at seven days, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, caregiver demographics were not associated with finding administration of SCH easy (Table 1). Adverse effects were mild and infrequent. Four weeks after the death, 98% (95% CI 0.88-0.99) of the caregivers reported that it was useful to have administered SCH to their relative.Conclusions: It is feasible to administer SCH to patients who are at home, by caregivers with no prior experience. Implement this technique at home will allow us to decrease the percentage of patients with dehydration at the EOL and to decrease the complications of being dehydrated. [Table: see text]
The positive effects of early integrated palliative care on patient coping strategies, quality of life, and depression.
Authors: Jacobs Jamie M. , Greer Joseph , El-Jawahri Areej , Nipp Ryan David , Gallagher Emily R. , Pirl William F. , Park Elyse , Muzikansky Alona , Jacobsen Juliet , Jackson Vicki , Temel Jennifer S. 
Published: November 2017

92 Background: In a recent trial, early integrated palliative care (PC) improved quality of life (QOL) and reduced depressive symptoms in patients with newly-diagnosed incurable lung and gastrointestinal (GI) cancer. The mechanisms by which PC benefits these outcomes are unclear. We examined whether early integrated PC improved patients’ coping strategies and the degree to which changes in coping mediated intervention effects on QOL and depressive symptoms. Methods: From 5/2011 to 7/2015, we enrolled 350 patients with newly diagnosed incurable lung or non-colorectal GI cancer in a randomized trial of early PC integrated with oncology care vs. oncology care alone at Massachusetts General Hospital. Patients completed self-report measures of QOL (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General), depressive symptoms (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and use of active and avoidant coping strategies (Brief Cope) at baseline, 12, and 24 weeks. Linear regression was used to assess the effects of the early PC intervention on active and avoidant coping strategies. A multiple mediation regression was modeled to examine whether changes in use of coping strategies mediated intervention effects on QOL and depressive symptoms. Results: Compared to oncology care, early integrated PC improved patients’ use of active coping ( B= 1.09, SE= 0.44, p= .01, 95% CI: 0.23, 1.96) and slightly reduced use of avoidant coping strategies ( B= -0.44, SE= 0.23, p= .06, 95% CI:-0.90, 0.02). Improvements in 24-week QOL in patients assigned to PC were mediated by increased use of active coping strategies (indirect effect = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.31, 2.86), but not by decreased use of avoidant coping. Similarly, PC-related reductions in 24-week depressive symptoms were mediated by increased use of active coping strategies (indirect effect = -0.39, 95% CI:-0.89, -0.08) but not by decreased use of avoidant coping. Conclusions: Patients with newly diagnosed incurable cancer who received early integrated PC showed increased use of active coping strategies, which was associated with improved QOL and depressive symptoms. PC may improve QOL and mood by providing patients with the skills to cope effectively with life-threatening illness. Clinical trial information: NCT01401907.
Maintaining centrosomes and cilia
Authors: Werner Sascha , Pimenta-Marques Ana , Bettencourt-Dias Mónica 
Published: November 2017

ABSTRACT
Centrosomes and cilia are present in organisms from all branches of the eukaryotic tree of life. These structures are composed of microtubules and various other proteins, and are required for a plethora of cell processes such as structuring the cytoskeleton, sensing the environment, and motility. Deregulation of centrosome and cilium components leads to a wide range of diseases, some of which are incompatible with life. Centrosomes and cilia are thought to be very stable and can persist over long periods of time. However, these structures can disappear in certain developmental stages and diseases. Moreover, some centrosome and cilia components are quite dynamic. While a large body of knowledge has been produced regarding the biogenesis of these structures, little is known about how they are maintained. In this Review, we propose the existence of specific centrosome and cilia maintenance programs, which are regulated during development and homeostasis, and when deregulated can lead to disease.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of adverse outcomes following non-buried versus buried Kirschner wires for paediatric lateral condyle elbow fractures
Authors: Wormald J. C. R. , Park C. Y. , Eastwood D. M. 
Published: November 2017

Purpose Fractures of the lateral condyle of the humerus in children are a common injury. If displaced or unstable they may require surgical reduction and fixation with Kirschner wires (K-wires). K-wires are placed using either an open or closed technique. The decision to bury or leave the ends extending through the skin is surgeon-dependent and based on factors including post-operative infection risk, bony union and ease of wire removal. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of non-buried versus buried K-wires for lateral condyle elbow fractures in children in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses methodology. A comprehensive search strategy included Medline, Embase and CINAHL via NICE Evidence from database inception to June 2017. Two authors independently reviewed, included or excluded articles, extracted data and assessed for quality with the ROBINS-I tool. We performed direct comparison meta-analysis for all adverse events, post-operative infection and failure of bony union. Results Three studies were analysed comprising of 434 participants. There was a significantly reduced relative risk of adverse events in the non-buried group, equating to approximately 45% reduced risk (RR 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.34 to 0.88). There were no significant differences in risk of post-operative infection or failure of bony union. All three cost-analyses in the included studies observed savings with non-buried K-wires. Conclusion Non-buried K-wires for lateral condyle elbow fractures convey a lower risk of adverse events and may be more cost-effective compared with buried K-wires. Non-buried K-wires do not appear to increase the risk of infection or failure of bony union. These findings are limited by a high risk of bias due to inherent methodological flaws in the design of included studies.
Influence of Teacher Performance Appraisal on Effectiveness in Curriculum Evaluation in Kenyan Public Secondary Schools
Authors: Aloo Joash Okello , Ajowi Jack Odongo , Aloka Peter Jairo O. 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe objective of the study was to establish the impact of Teachers Performance Appraisal(TPA) policy on effectiveness in curriculum evaluation in public secondary schools in Kenya. The study employed a Correlational research design. Additionally, the study used Stratified random sampling technique to select 179 Principals and 179 Deputy Principals. Consequently, the study used questionnaires to collect data from the Principals and Deputy Principals. The study also tested reliability of the instruments for data collection by assessing the scale's internal consistency using Crobanch's alpha, and reliability coefficient of at least 0.7 was achieved. Validity was determined by experts in Educational Administration of JaramogiOgingaOdinga University of Science and Technology. Quantitative data was analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study established that TPA policy had a significant positive influence on curriculum evaluation by teachers (r =.726, p<.05). The study confirmed that TPA: accounted for 52.5% of the variation in curriculum evaluation. The study established TPA to be a significant predictor of curriculum evaluation [F (1, 316) = 351.92, p <.05)]. The study recommends that the Kenyan Teachers Service Commission should enhance the use of reports when making decisions on teachers to be deployed to senior positions and those to be promoted to the next job groups. Such a step would make teachers respect and adhere to the policy guidelines. This is because the study reported that more teachers had embraced TPA with a view that it would be used to determine their suitability promotion.
(p,2)-equations asymmetric at both zero and infinity
Authors: Papageorgiou Nikolaos S. , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. , Repovš Dušan D. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
We consider a

(
p
,
2
)

{(p,2)}

-equation, that is, a nonlinear nonhomogeneous elliptic equation driven by the sum of a p-Laplacian and a Laplacian with

p
>
2

{p>2}

. The reaction term is

(

p
-
1

)

{(p-1)}

-linear, but exhibits asymmetric behavior at

±
∞

{\pm\infty}

and at

0
±

{0^{\pm}}

. Using variational tools, together with truncation and comparison techniques and Morse theory, we prove two multiplicity theorems, one of them providing sign information for all the solutions (positive, negative, nodal).
The Importance of the Audited Financial Statement in Attracting Foreign Investors in Private Sector in Kosovo
Authors: Haliti Rudhani Leonora , Ismajli Hysen , Mustafa Albulena 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Responding to globalization of the international business environment the companies need to draw and present reliable and comparable audited financial statements, and consequently there is a vital need to implement international financial reporting standards. Foreign investments in Kosovo as a new developing country are growing. The purpose of this paper is to consider the role of audited financial statements in encouraging foreign investment in the private sector in Kosovo. To examine this issue, we have analysed three determinant factors in presenting financial statements to the foreign investors: auditor’s report, auditor reputation and relevance of auditor’s findings. The results of this study indicate that these variables have a positive effect on promotion of foreign investment. These results also revealed that audited financial statements are very important for Kosovo companies in order to ensure an equal worldwide treatment.
Environmental Aspects of the Construction Industry Development in Latvia
Authors: Kauškale Linda , Geipele Ineta , Vanags Jānis , Lepkova Natalija 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
The importance of environmental aspects in construction is growing during the time. The aim of the research is to analyze environmental aspects of construction industry development and related regulations in Latvia, including the last green building certification development tendencies. The analysis, historical, document review and logical access methods have been used in the research. The article also includes overview of the international experience. The results of research show growing importance of environmental aspects in construction process and the necessity for market participants and industry development to consider them.
A combined experimental and theoretical study on vibrational and electronic properties of (5-methoxy-1H-indol-1-yl)(5-methoxy-1H-indol-2-yl)methanone
Authors: Al-Wabli Reem I. , Govindarajan Munusamy , Almutairi Maha S. , Attia Mohamed I. 
Published: November 2017

Abstract(5-Methoxy-1H-indol-1-yl)(5-methoxy-1H-indol-2-yl)methanone (MIMIM) is a bis-indolic derivative that can be used as a precursor to a variety of melatonin receptor ligands. In this work, the energetic and spectroscopic profiles of MIMIM were studied by a combined DFT and experimental approach. The IR, Raman, UV-Vis, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra were calculated by PBEPBE and B3LYP methods, and compared with experimental ones. Results showed good agreement between theoretical and experimental values. Mulliken population and natural bond orbital analysis were also performed by time-dependent DFT approach to evaluate the electronic properties of the title molecule.
Women, sport and the media: Key elements at play in the shaping of the practice of women in sports journalism in Israel
Authors: Tamir Ilan , Yarchi Moran , Galily Yair 
Published: November 2017

AbstractThe present study aims to illustrate the points of view of various female sports journalists as they relate the unique and defining experiences within their line of work, intending to identify the key elements at play in the shaping of the practice of women in sports journalism and its impact on the coverage of women’s sports. 17 Israeli female sports journalists were interviewed concurrently, alongside a select number of male editors of various sports sections. In addition, a survey regarding readers’ views on the coverage of women’s sports and a content analysis of sport coverage in national newspapers was conducted. The analysis of the study’s findings and, particularly, of the female sports journalists’ experiences, has even revealed similarities between the place of women in sports media and female presence within combative military units.
Efficient synthesis of new pyrano[3,2-b]pyran derivatives via Fe3O4@SiO2-IL-Fc catalyzed three-component reaction
Authors: Teimuri-Mofrad Reza , Esmati Somayeh , Rabiei Masoumeh , Gholamhosseini-Nazari Mahdi 
Published: November 2017

Abstract
Ferrocene-containing ionic liquid supported on silica-coated Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (nano Fe3O4@SiO2-IL-Fc), a novel heterogeneous nanocatalyst, was synthesized. The structure of the catalyst was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction patterns (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The novel nanomagnetic catalyst was used in the one-pot synthesis of pyrano[3,2-b]pyran derivatives by the three-component reaction of various aldehydes, malononitrile and kojic acid or chlorokojic acid at room temperature under ultrasonic irradiation. This new method has many advantages such as simplicity, short reaction times, high yields, easy workup and easy purification. Also, the nanocatalyst can be separated on an external magnet and reused for at least six consecutive runs without any significant loss of its catalytic activity.