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This article examines the relationship between heritage and decoloniality, focusing on how colonial legacies continue to impact public spaces and social structures. The authors argue for the need to challenge racialized social systems and exclusionary regimes through grassroots activism and protests. They also explore the politics of representation, the decolonization of heritage institutions and practices, and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and diverse perspectives. The article includes case studies, interviews, and reflections on the complexities of heritage and decoloniality. It calls for further exploration of the different ways decoloniality is mobilized, the concrete manifestations of decoloniality in heritage practice, and the practical implications for transformative actions. The text emphasizes the importance of recognizing power structures, diverse perspectives, and the complexities of decoloniality in heritage practices. [Extracted from the article]

Brennen Ferguson, a member of the Tuscarora Nation and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, recently participated in a restitution process with the Museum of Ethnography in Geneva. He noticed one of their sacred items on display and requested its removal, which the museum agreed to after receiving a letter. The item was successfully returned in February 2023. Ferguson discusses the challenges of restitution, including museums' reluctance to return items and the importance of respectful engagement with Indigenous Peoples. He also emphasizes the need for museums to reconsider their relationships with Indigenous communities and allow them to determine the appropriate treatment of their cultural items. [Extracted from the article]

Multidrug efflux pumps excrete a range of small molecules from bacterial cells. In this study, we show that bacterial efflux pumps have affinity for a range of SYTO™ dyes that are commonly used to label bacteria. Efflux pump activity will there lead to false negative results from bacterial staining and SYTO™ dyes should be used with caution on live samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The treatment of tibial nonunion is challenging and treatment may be conservative or surgical. Conservative strategies include functional braces and weight bearing, or focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy (fESWT). A 45-year-old male patient sustained spiral tibial shaft fractures and was treated surgically within 24 hours after the initial accident with intramedullary nails. The tibial fracture was later classified as nonunion after 11 months. Radiologic evaluation 17 months after the initial trauma demonstrated clinical nonunion, and subsequently the patient was offered a conservative approach with fESWT to facilitate an increase in callus formation. The handpiece was fitted with a stand-off II (long), penetration depth of 15 mm. Three cycles were administered in month 17, 19 and 20 after baseline. Each cycle consisted of three treatments sessions spaced with 6–8 days apart, and consisted of 3000 to 4000 impulses each given at 0.25–0.84 mJ/mm2. The number of impulses and the power at the focus point varied according to the pain response. The patient achieved union 23 months after fracture. A clinical important improvement was observed with both Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) (18-point difference) and Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) (average: 4.7 points,) The "worst pain last 24 hours" was reduced by 5 points. These values express minimal clinically important difference (MCID) values in these functional patient-reported outcome measures. This treatment strategy may be viable in a broader setting, including private practice physiotherapy thereby treating the patient in close proximity to the patient's everyday life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the keynote speech delivered by the authors at the European Evaluation Society (EES) conference held in Copenhagen, Denmark on June 10, 2022. Topics they discussed include the idea of skeptical turn in evaluation, whereby it would allow a symmetrical relationship between evaluation and the world, the constitutive effects of evaluation, and ways for evaluators to consider ther idea of skepticism in evaluation.

Webber Ndoro, former director general of the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM), discusses the influence of Western perspectives on the definition and interpretation of heritage. He highlights the need to incorporate diverse perspectives and values in order to create a more inclusive understanding of heritage. Ndoro also addresses the challenges of decolonizing heritage, including the limited participation of local communities and the dominance of Western-trained professionals in the field. He emphasizes the importance of anthropology in understanding and including the perspectives of marginalized groups. [Extracted from the article]

Carine Ayélé Durand, the director of the Museum of Ethnography in Geneva, discusses the museum's approach to decolonization in an interview. She emphasizes the concept of co-construction, which involves incorporating multiple perspectives, including those of the descendants of the people who made the objects in the museum, into exhibitions and other activities. The museum also focuses on researching the provenance of its collections and creating exhibitions with the free, prior, and informed consent of the communities involved. Durand acknowledges the challenges of decolonizing museums, including the need to reframe professional practices, but sees it as an opportunity to address the colonial history embedded in the collections. She also discusses the possibility of changing the museum's name to better reflect its interdisciplinary approach and the complexity of the world today. Durand believes that anthropology is well-suited to address decoloniality because it requires constant unlearning and relearning. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Interpretation of patient-reported outcome scores such as the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) can be improved with use of reference values. The aim of the study was to establish population-based reference values for the HOOS' five subscales and its short-form HOOS-12. Materials and methods: A representative sample of 9997 Danish citizens 18 years and older were identified. The population record-based sample was based on seven predefined age groups and an equal sex distribution within each age group. A national secure electronic system was used to send the HOOS questionnaire and one supplementary question regarding previous hip complaints to all participants. Results: 2277 participants completed the HOOS, 947 women (42%) and 1330 men (58%). The mean HOOS subscale scores were: pain 86.9 (95% CI 86.1–87.7), symptoms 83.7 (95% CI 82.9–84.5), ADL 88.2 (95% CI 87.5–89.0), sport and recreation function 83.1 (95% CI 82.0–84.1), QOL 82.7 (95% CI 81.8–83.6). The youngest age group reported better mean scores in four subscales compared to the oldest age group (pain 91.7 vs. 84.5, mean difference 7.2 95% CI 0.4–14.0), (ADL 94.6 points vs. 83.2, mean difference 11.4 95% CI 4.9–17.8), (sport and recreation function 91.5 points vs. 73.8 points, mean difference 17.7 95% CI 9.0–26.4), (QOL 88.9 points vs. 78.8, mean difference 10.1 points 95% CI 2.0–18.2). Participants with a self-reported hip complaint had worse HOOS scores across all subscales (mean difference range 22.1–34.6). Super obese patients (BMI > 40) had > 12.5 points worse scores across the five HOOS subscales. Results were similar for the HOOS-12. Conclusion: This study provides reference values for the HOOS and its short form HOOS-12. Results show that older patients and patients with a BMI over 40 have worse HOOS and HOOS-12 scores that may be of clinical importance in the interpretation of scores both when evaluating potential for improvement and post-treatment results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This research assessed the preparedness of new graduate radiation therapists (NGRTs) for the clinical practice of planning. Methods: A senior planner from each department and NGRTs who completed their degree in 2020 were surveyed after approximately 6 months of practice. Both were asked about NGRTs preparedness for practice and for feedback on the Bachelor of Radiation Therapy (BRT) planning curriculum. NGRTs were asked about body sites planned, how many plans they completed and planning techniques they had used. Senior planners were asked about their expectations of NGRTs in planning. Results: New graduate radiation therapists frequently planned using three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) or virtual simulation (VSim). Commonly planned body sites were those with palliative intent, radical breast and sites more frequently planned using 3DCRT. The departmental sign-off process sometimes prevented them from generating VMAT plans. They suggested more VMAT teaching could be included in the BRT. Senior planners expected NGRTs to be able to plan using 3DCRT and VMAT/IMRT. They suggested more clinical workflow teaching in the BRT planning curriculum. The majority of NGRTs and senior planners felt the BRT prepared the NGRTs for clinical practice. Conclusion: The undergraduate degree is preparing NGRTs for clinical practice in planning. 3DCRT and VSim planning techniques remain a core role of NGRTs and a large proportion of clinical workload. NGRTs utilised their VMAT/IMRT planning skills less often during their initial period of practice, despite being expected to possess these skills. This is a challenge for the undergraduate curriculum and New Zealand departments as the clinical use of VMAT/IMRT continues to increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most dominant trends in the field of evaluation in recent years is the institutionalization of evaluation under headlines such as "evaluation culture," "evaluation policy," and "evaluation systems." There has been less interest in how evaluation systems can be changed, modified, or improved, not to mention deinstitutionalized, if necessary. Can a variety of stakeholders deliberate about the consequences of an evaluation system, and can it lead to policy change? A case study of a ministerial advisory group on national tests in Denmark shows how specific challenges were dealt with, such as the design of the deliberative process, the potential dominance of experts, and the distinction between technical-evaluative and practical-political arguments, and how these maneuvers paved the way for policy change. Based on the case study, the article discusses the prospects for democratic deliberation about evaluation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The objective was to investigate the feasibility of blood flow restricted exercise (BFRE) as a rehabilitation modality in patients with a unilateral ankle fracture.Methods: Feasibility study with a prospective cohort design. Inclusion criteria were above 18 years of age and unilateral ankle fractures.Exclusion Criteria: history of cardiac or embolic diseases, cancer, diabetes, hypertension and family history of cardio or vascular diseases. The predefined feasibility outcome was based on three criteria regarding patients experience with participating in the BFRE protocol and the absence of any serious adverse events.Results: Eight patients were included. Median age was 33 years (range: 23-60). All eight patients reported maximum satisfaction on the two questions regarding patient's perception of the overall experience with BFRE training and the feasibility to introduce BFRE as an intervention.Conclusion: Early use of BFRE in patients with unilateral ankle fractures seems feasible in patients without comorbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The primary aim of the present study was to compare basic characteristics of patients requiring early treatment with TKR and patients not requiring TKR within 3 years following a lateral tibial plateau fracture. Methods: Comparative cohort study. From December 2013 to November 2016, 56 patients were included. Five patients required a TKR within the first 3 years. We compared the basic characteristics (age, gender, BMI, comorbidity, osteoporosis, fracture classification, soft tissue injuries and trauma mechanism) between patients. Results: Comparing baseline characteristics of the two groups of patients shows a higher rate of females (56.4% vs 80%), a higher BMI (25.9 vs 29.9), a higher rate of patients with diabetes (8% vs 20%), a higher rate of the fracture type AO 41-B1 (8% vs 80%) and a higher rate of soft tissue injuries (46% vs 100%). Age, smoking status and preoperative maximum joint depression were comparable between the two groups. Conclusions: Female gender, severe comorbidity, obesity, osteopenia, fracture type AO 41-B and soft tissue injuries were associated to early total knee replacements following surgically treated lateral tibial plateau fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Smartglasses are a wearable computer technology that has potential to facilitate remote supervision to junior doctors working in different clinical settings. The present study aimed to explore the feasibility of smartglass technology to enable remote supervision of junior clinicians by senior clinicians during emergency simulation scenarios. Methods: This was a feasibility simulation study using high-fidelity mannequins and standardised patients. Trainee interns (TIs) and supervising clinicians (SCs) were invited to participate in two scenarios: a trauma case and a stroke case. There was a pre-sim questionnaire. The TI wore the smartglasses in a simulated ED bay and performed patient assessment and management. Remote supervision was provided by the SC via a livestream on a remote computer. Upon completion, participants completed a survey regarding their experience comprising of Likert scale and free-text questions. Results: Fifteen TIs and 19 SCs participated. In general feedback from TIs and SCs was positive. TIs were able to identify and treat the key diagnostic problems set during the scenarios. Free-text survey responses provided specific feedback about what did and did not work when using the glasses. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates that smartglasses facilitated remote assistance has promise as an emergent technology and warrants further investigation in simulated and non-simulated environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sugarcane mill ash has been suggested as having high potential for carbon dioxide removal (CDR) via enhanced weathering (EW), but this had not been quantitatively assessed. The aims of this study were to 1) assess the CDR potential of various sugarcane mill ashes via EW, and 2) investigate the impact of soil conditions and mill ash properties on the CDR. This was done by characterising physical and chemical properties of five mill ashes from Australia and simulating weathering using a one-dimensional reactive transport model. The model was parameterised to simulate weathering of 100 t/ha of wet ash (47–65% water) or crushed basalt for 15 years under various combinations of soil pH and carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO 2). A sensitivity analysis was undertaken in a two-level factorial design to test the effect of pH, pH buffering, material surface area, infiltration rate, plant uptake of nutrients, organic matter cation exchange surfaces, and pCO 2 on modelled CDR. The simulated CDR of the mill ashes was significantly less than the basalt (p < 0.001) but mostly did not differ significantly between ashes (p > 0.05). Weathering of mill ash removed 0.0–4.0 t CO 2 /ha (0.00–0.040 t CO 2 /t wet ash) cumulatively, similar to some basalts and olivine modelled in the literature. The theoretical maximum CDR of the mill ashes (based on amount of weatherable material applied) was achieved in around 5 years. The estimate of CDR varied by orders of magnitude depending on conditions. It was least when initial soil solution pH was lowest (4.5, unbuffered), pH was at 6.5 or less with constant buffering, and pCO 2 was low (600 ppm). CDR was also significantly lower when calculated directly from accumulation of carbon in dissolved and solid phases rather than stoichiometrically from cation release. The effects of pH and pH buffering quantified here may explain low measured CDR from EW in field trials on acidic soils and highlight the need for more realistic modelling of pH buffering capacity. Overall, mill ash shows high potential for CDR via EW, especially if lifecycle benefits are considered, although this must be validated in the field. • 100 t/ha wet sugarcane mill ash may remove up to 4.0 t CO 2 /ha cumulatively. • Up to 99% of maximum carbon dioxide removal potential was achieved in ∼5 years. • Carbon dioxide removal is orders of magnitude less when pH is < 5.5 or buffered. • Carbon dioxide partial pressure increases carbon dioxide removal potential. • Carbon dioxide removed by mill ash similar to other modelled materials and field data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As anthropologists increasingly embark upon the study of the international sphere, this often builds on different forms of engagement within and around organizations, processes, and institutional corridors. The co-authors, building upon a round table exchange, address the advantages and dilemmas of anthropological engagement in the field of international governance, including humanitarian work, diplomacy, international organizations, the Swiss federal government, NGOs, and multinationals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue aims to shed light on and recognize the full potential of engaged anthropology and its place in academia and beyond. It argues for an inclusive approach to be both theoretically enriching and methodologically grounded in diverse practices and forms. The introduction addresses common confusions and obstacles distracting engaged anthropology from its core premises and potentials. As the Interface Commission of the Swiss Anthropological Association (SEG), we seek to deepen the conversation about how engagement bolsters the discipline to stay relevant and robust, and embark on new paths of theoretical reflection. By "repositioning" engaged anthropology at the heart of contemporary anthropology, we seek to overcome unproductive dichotomies on engagements and practices by embracing critical reflexivity in the process of knowledge production and social action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A number of studies have linked Alu retrotransposon-mediated molecular processes to circadian gene expression pathways. • We review the evidence indicating Alu RNAs are essential for posttranscriptional regulation of circadian gene expression. • Alus likely participate in the organization of circadian brain function, operating in multidimensional neuroepigenetic space. • Perturbations of Alu -centric posttranscriptional pathways likely contribute to the manifestation of neurological disease. The circadian rhythm of the human brain is attuned to sleep-wake cycles that entail global alterations in neuronal excitability. This periodicity involves a highly coordinated regulation of gene expression. A growing number of studies are documenting a fascinating connection between primate-specific retrotransposons (Alu elements) and key epigenetic regulatory processes in the primate brain. Collectively, these studies indicate that Alu elements embedded in the human neuronal genome mediate post-transcriptional processes that unite human-specific neuroepigenetic landscapes and circadian rhythm. Here, we review evidence linking Alu retrotransposon-mediated posttranscriptional pathways to circadian gene expression. We hypothesize that Alu retrotransposons participate in the organization of circadian brain function through multidimensional neuroepigenetic pathways. We anticipate that these pathways are closely tied to the evolution of human cognition and their perturbation contributes to the manifestation of human-specific neurological diseases. Finally, we address current challenges and accompanying opportunities in studying primate- and human-specific transposable elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The golden lion tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia) is an endangered Platyrrhine primate endemic to the Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil. Despite ongoing conservation efforts, genetic data on this species remains scarce. Complicating factors include limitations on sample collection and a lack of high-quality reference sequences. Here, we used nanopore adaptive sampling to resequence the L. rosalia mitogenome from feces, a sample which can be collected non-invasively. Results: Adaptive sampling doubled the fraction of both host-derived and mitochondrial sequences compared to sequencing without enrichment. 258x coverage of the L. rosalia mitogenome was achieved in a single flow cell by targeting the unfinished genome of the distantly related emperor tamarin (Saguinus imperator) and the mitogenome of the closely related black lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysopygus). The L. rosalia mitogenome has a length of 16,597 bp, sharing 99.68% sequence identity with the L. chrysopygus mitogenome. A total of 38 SNPs between them were identified, with the majority being found in the non-coding D-loop region. DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation were directly detected using a neural network model applied to the raw signal from the MinION sequencer. In contrast to prior reports, DNA methylation was negligible in mitochondria in both CpG and non-CpG contexts. Surprisingly, a quarter of the 642 CpG sites exhibited DNA hydroxymethylation greater than 1% and 44 sites were above 5%, with concentration in the 3′ side of several coding regions. Conclusions: Overall, we report a robust new mitogenome assembly for L. rosalia and direct detection of cytosine base modifications in all contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Although a large number of previous studies have investigated the outcome in patients following tibial shaft fractures, the literature provides limited information on prospectively reported patients with mid- to long-term follow-up. The present study aimed to investigate prospectively the 5-year development in patient-reported quality of life after intramedullary nailing of a tibial shaft fracture. Material and methods: The design was a prospective, 5-year follow-up cohort study. Quality of life (QOL) was measured with the questionnaire Eq5d-5L and compared to the 1-year outcome reported by the same patients. Secondary outcome measurements were the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), recordings of pain, gait and muscle strength. Results: Twenty-nine patients were eligible for participation. Mean patient age at the time of the 5-year follow-up was 46.3 years. The 5-year postoperative mean Eq5d-5L index was 0.864 (95% CI 0.809–0.918). The mean Eq5d-5L VAS was 88.4 (95% CI 83.4–93.5). Compared with the same patients' Eq5d-5L index scores at the 1-year follow-up (0.784), a significant increase was observed (P = 0.014). A comparison to the Danish Eq.5D reference population showed no statistically significant difference. Conclusions: Patient-reported quality of life among patients treated with intramedullary nailing following a tibial shaft fracture increased significantly between the 1-year and 5-year follow-up. In contrast to the 1-year patient-reported quality of life, results are comparable to those of a reference population at the 5-year follow-up. In a clinical setting, these results highlight that patients may expect a prolonged period to recover. However, of most importance is that patients can expect a satisfactory outcome years after fracture and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

What can be said about effect of an intervention without a control group? The lack of evaluative evidence is a long-standing problem for regulatory policies against work-related health and safety risks. The European Union Occupational Safety and Health Framework has been in operation for three decades and covers more than 200 million workers, but the most recent evaluation was inconclusive about the benefits generated by this framework. A theory-based evaluation focusing on mechanisms in combination with a design capturing within-intervention variations offers a way forward. The idea is to measure the prevalence of most likely mechanisms and their correlation with outcomes. This approach is illustrated in a large- N evaluation of the use of workplace assessments in the public sector in Denmark. The strengths and weakness of the workplace assessment legislation are assessed. It is shown how findings based on the presented approach contribute to the public debate about workplace assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Close to two thousand environmental human rights defenders have been killed in 57 countries since 2002, with about four losing their lives every week in 2019. Many of these defenders represent Indigenous Peoples and local communities protecting ecosystems from large‐scale environmentally destructive projects. As the positive contributions of Indigenous and local communities to biodiversity conservation become better recognized, so should the losses and risks that they face. Despite major efforts at documenting abuses and protecting defenders, many blind spots and gaps remain. Here, we call for the conservation community to put the protection of defenders at the heart of its strategy to slow down and reverse the current onslaught on the environment. The conservation community can respond in a number of ways including reaching out to its constituencies, working together with the human rights community, and mobilizing its networks, field offices, and presence in remote areas to denounce abuses and counter isolation. In doing so the conservation community can advance the collective agenda bringing together conservation and environment‐related human rights through the Post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heritage processes are today increasingly entangled with multiple forms and discourses of creativity. Connections between creativity and heritage form part of a new consensual authorised discourse, where creativity and (heritage) entrepreneurship are projected as mutually beneficial in a win-win scenario, while co-existing with ever-more visible practices of destruction and loss. Challenging the celebratory narrative, the article unpacks the less visible political, economic, cultural and social processes underpinning the heritage–creativity nexus. This is necessary in order to confront and analyse the domination of space, place and history in the context of depoliticised neoliberal forms of governance. Juxtaposing the contradictions of authorised heritage discourse within the hegemonic politics and profitability in the neoliberal creative economy, we propose a critical anthropological approach centred around the decreativity of contemporary practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Disregarding proximal femoral fractures, the current literature includes only limited information regarding mortality following lower extremity fractures. Information regarding risk of mortality related to specific fracture patterns is essential when planning treatment modalities. The primary aim of this study was to report the long-term cumulative survival rate in patients with a tibial plateau fracture compared to an age- and gender-matched reference population. Materials and methods: Patients who sustained a tibial plateau fracture in Denmark between 1996 and 2000 were included in the study. Survival status was monitored until 2015. We compared the mortality rate with a tenfold reference population matched on age and gender without a prior tibial plateau fracture. The study was based on register data from the Danish National Patient Register. Results: The study included 7950 patients sustaining 8065 tibial plateau fractures. The cohort had a mean follow-up period of 13.9 years. Patients with a tibial plateau fracture had a 1.52 (95% CI 1.46–1.58) times higher hazard ratio (HR) of death compared to the age- and gender-matched reference population. The 30-day, 6-month and 1-year mortality rates were 1.2%, 3.3% and 4.9%, respectively. Conclusion: Patients with a proximal tibial plateau fracture have a higher cumulative risk of death during the mean 13.9-year observational period compared to an age- and gender-matched reference population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resolving pseudosymmetry has long presented a challenge for electron backscatter diffraction and has been notoriously challenging in the case of tetragonal ZrO2 in particular. In this work, a method is proposed to resolve pseudosymmetry by building upon the dictionary indexing method and augmenting it with the application of global optimization to fit accurate pattern centers, clustering of the Hough‐indexed orientations to focus the dictionary in orientation space and interpolation to improve the accuracy of the indexed solution. The proposed method is demonstrated to resolve pseudosymmetry with 100% accuracy in simulated patterns of tetragonal ZrO2, even with high degrees of binning and noise. The method is then used to index an experimental data set, which confirms its ability to efficiently and accurately resolve pseudosymmetry in these materials. The present method can be applied to resolve pseudosymmetry in a wide range of materials, possibly even some more challenging than tetragonal ZrO2. Source code for this implementation is available online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: In children and adolescents, there are significant limitations to detecting cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN), an important contributor to morbidity and mortality in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) is one method available to detect CAN. Some evidence shows traditional linear HRV measures detect abnormalities in youth with T1D. In this study, we aimed to assess whether non-linear complexity analysis of HRV would assist identification of CAN in youth with T1D and to assess contributory factors.Methods: We studied 19 youth with T1D and 17 healthy controls. Each had an electrocardiogram recorded continuously for 10 min, at a sampling frequency of 1000 Hz. Using Labview software and an algorithm for complexity analysis, along with standard time-domain and spectral analysis, recordings of the electrocardiogram were analysed to detect differences in HRV between groups.Results: Youth with T1D had significantly higher sample entropy than controls (P = 0.015) suggesting increased complexity in HRV, but similar detrended fluctuation analysis (P = 0.68). Youth with T1D also had increased % high frequency power (P = 0.017) and reduced mid-frequency power (P = 0.019) on spectral analysis. There were no differences in heart rate or blood pressure responses to standing, or time-domain analysis of HRV. Within the T1D group, sample entropy correlated strongly with triglycerides (r = 0.76, P = 0.001) and detrended fluctuation analysis correlated strongly with serum potassium (r = -0.86, P < 0.001).Conclusions: Complexity analysis of HRV, particularly using sample entropy, may aid detection of CAN in youth with T1D. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This special issue of the journal is about one of the most significant, yet largely overlooked, international rights instruments concerning indigenous peoples: the ILO Convention 169 on the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples. It offers a highly needed critical perspective bringing together practitioners, institutional actors, indigenous leaders and academics in an attempt to take stock of nearly 30 years of its existence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Also, not to be forgotten, was the importance of countries having ratified the predecessor, Convention 107 (remaining in force in 17 countries) and its role in facilitating dialogue in countries like Bangladesh. She also stated that the ratification of the Convention had reduced the level of conflict between indigenous peoples and the government encouraging other states to also ratify the Convention. More than 70 countries, it was mentioned, have been asked to ratify C169 in the Universal Periodic Review and 40 countries through the treaty bodies underlining important complementarities. From the lack prioritisation in the regular ILO budget to lack of UN-wide ownership, ratifying countries were encouraged to work with the ILO Governing Body to increase funding for indigenous rights issues. [Extracted from the article]

The overall concern with ILO Convention 169 is often listed as the dual challenge of promoting its ratification and enhancing effective implementation. This article offers a critical appraisal of the dual challenge by unpacking calls for clarity, guidance and implementation, while exploring the underlying politics of negotiation, interpretation and institutional boundaries potentially undermining the role of the Convention as an instrument of social justice. On the one hand, three decades of implementation have demonstrated the value of international frameworks and standards in helping frame national rights debates. On the other hand, there is a constant risk of lowering the bar and ultimately perpetuating the very inequalities the Convention was set-up to challenge. If indigenous peoples have long employed a 'cuckoo effect' relying on the nesting, reporting and filing of representations by others, this article identifies policy and institutional points of leverage to strengthen engagement with indigenous peoples in the ILO world of work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: What are the overall, 30-day, 6-month, and 1-year mortality rates following distal femur fractures?Methods: Epidemiological cohort study. Retrospective reviews of charts and X-rays based on a search in the National Danish Health Registry.Results: A total of 293 patients were treated for 302 distal femur fractures between 2005 and 2010. The mean age at the time of fracture was 44.0 years for males and 71.6 years for females. The overall mortality rates after a non-periprosthetic distal femur fracture at 30 days, six months, and one year were 5%, 15%, and 21%, respectively. The mortality rates for patients at > 60 years at 30 days, six months, and one year were 8%, 26%, and 35%, respectively. The mortality rates for patients at ≤ 60 years at 30 days, six months, and one year were 1%, 2%, and 3%, respectively. The overall mortality rates after a periprosthetic distal femur fracture at 30 days, six months, and one year were 10%, 15%, and 15%. Males were 2.6 (95% CI 1.01-6.86, P = 0.04) times more likely to die within the first year compared to women. Patients treated by conservative means shows a 2.8 (95% CI 1.41-5.54, P = 0.03) times increased likelihood of death within the first year compared to patients treated with surgery.Conclusions: The overall one year mortality rate was 21% for non-periprosthetic distal femur fractures and was elevated to 35% in patients older than 60 years. Patients presenting with a periprosthetic fracture showed a one year mortality rate of 15%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Despite fractures of the ankle being very common, there is a lack of clarity regarding the relative effectiveness of conservative versus surgical treatment. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the clinical effects, benefits, and harms of surgical versus conservative treatment of ankle fractures in adults.Methods: A systematic search strategy was conducted in the databases: Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane up until the 16th of August 2017. Eight available randomized controlled trials, regardless of fracture type, reported on patient-reported ankle-specific functional outcome and were included. Analyses were based on random effects models.Results: The 8 included studies randomly allocated 1237 patients to either surgical or conservative treatment. Mean age of patients ranged from 38.1 to 71.4 years. Five studies evaluated short-term patient-reported ankle function, with no significant difference between surgery and conservative treatment (SMD=-0.14, 95%CI=-0.57 to 0.29, P=0.51, I2=84%). Three studies evaluated health-related quality of life, with no significant difference in treatment effect between surgery or conservative treatment (SMD=0.13, 95%CI=-0.01 to 0.27, P=0.06, I2=0%).Conclusions: The best available current evidence supports that clinicians can manage ankle fractures by both surgical and conservative means with equal short-term results in selected patient groups with stable and unstable nondisplaced ankle fractures. However, more research is needed including high-quality RCTs investigating the long-term effects. This is especially the case in younger patients, before making significant interpretations about clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An important motivation for the institutionalization of evaluation culture in countries around the world is the belief that accountability and transparency will thereby be enhanced. We subject this narrative about evaluation's contribution to good governance to empirical analysis. We also argue that the meaning and relevance of this general narrative differs across national contexts. We build on data from a systematic assessment of evaluation culture in 19 countries (Jacob et al., 2015), add one country using the same systematic approach, and combine these findings with an indicator of transparency in government provided by Transparency International. We find a positive correlation between evaluation culture and transparency, and discuss threats to a causal interpretation hereof. We go into depth with two particular countries at either end of the transparency scale. We argue that the meaning of the link between evaluation culture and transparency differs whether the chosen perspective is generally comparative or situated in particular national, historical, and political contexts. In countries where transparency is high already, there might be diminishing marginal returns on evaluation, at least regarding its contribution to accountability and transparency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genomic technologies have advanced rapidly in recent decades and have ushered in an exciting new era for the study of mammals. Mammalogists working with non-model species are now able to explore many new research areas that were unimaginable only a short time ago. For example, it is currently possible for individual researchers to sequence and assemble genomes for mammalian species of their choosing and to generate genome-wide DNA sequence data from hundreds of individuals simultaneously. Moreover, the miniaturization of both PCR and sequencing technology has created new opportunities for generating real-time DNA or RNA sequence data in the field. Here, we highlight emerging genomic technologies and associated methods that are providing exciting new research avenues for mammalogists in the fields of evolutionary genomics and ecology. Our aim is to not only provide a resource for novel experimental design, but also to provide a record of the current state of genomic applications as the American Society of Mammalogists enters a new century of discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and precise documentation of lesions is an important aspect of the forensic pathologists' work. Photogrammetry provides a useful tool to take precise measurements from photographs. These photographs are normally acquired with single camera photographs, but the procedure is quite time-consuming. Video recording has the potential to record a larger amount of image data faster. We documented 33 cadaveric skin lesions, using photographs and video recordings. The dimensions of the lesions ranged between 0.27 and 21.8 cm. The measurements of the lesions were extracted with both manual and automatic point measurements from photographs and from video frames, respectively. Very small differences (mean and median < 1 mm) were found between measurements taken in photographs versus video frames. Video frames were often blurred, preventing clear demarcation of the edges of the lesions and presenting a larger amount of noise in the 3D models. The differences between the manual point and automatic point measurements were very small (mean and median < 1 mm), but the manual procedure is to be preferred, since automatic points were not always located on the edges of the lesions. The only aspect in which video frames were superior to photographs was the recording time: video recording was almost five times faster than the photo sessions. In conclusion, this study shows that precise and comparable measurements can be extracted both from photographs and video frames. The video is the fastest method, but the use of photographs is still recommended. Manual measurements are more precise than automatic measurements and equally time-consuming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Fabrication process for fully suspended pyrolytic carbon string resonators through wafer orifice. • Micro- and nanoparticles of paracetamol detection. • Characterization of paracetamol micro particles using NAM-IR. • Regeneration of pyrolytic carbon string resonators. Abstract Pyrolytic carbon is a promising material for fabrication of micro- and nanomechanical sensors due to the possibility to control both structural parameters and properties such as resonance frequency, residual stress and electrical conductivity. Here, we present a novel fabrication process for pyrolytic carbon string resonators suspended over a through-wafer-orifice. The pyrolytic carbon string resonators had a length of 400 μm, a width of 30 μm and a thickness of 700 nm. The string resonators were applied for characterization of nano- and microparticulate drug formulations using two different modes of operation. First, mass sensing on nanograms of nebulized or spray coated paracetamol micro- and nanoparticles was demonstrated. Then, absorption spectra of the drug were obtained by nanomechanical infrared spectroscopy (NAM-IR). Finally, an efficient method for in situ regeneration of the sensor was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A recent study of African evaluations identified deficiencies in present evaluation practices. Due to limited public sector expertise for the design of policy impact evaluations, expertise for such complex designs is largely external to the public sector. Consequently, recommendations made sometimes pay insufficient attention to variations in local contexts. Objectives The bold idea presented in this article is that theory-based evaluation (TBE) in its most recent participatory versions offers promising opportunities towards more flexible epistemology. When properly tweaked, tuned and adapted to local needs and demands in African contexts, better theory-based evaluations are possible. Method Three TBE-inspired criteria for better evaluations are suggested. The usefulness of including broad perspectives in theory-making was illustrated with a recent policy example, that is, the provision of tablets to school children in South Africa. Results A model of collaborative theory-making is presented. The pros and cons of the proposed hybrid model are discussed. Conclusion Recent trends in TBE point towards more participation of stakeholders in the theory-making process and towards more flexible epistemologies. The proposed innovation of TBE may have broader implications and serve as a promising inspiration for better evaluation practices in African contexts, given that existing research has demonstrated a need for such visions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Circulating biomarkers may be of value in providing additional prognostic information to the TNM staging system. Previous population‐level studies suggest a prognostic role for pre‐operative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The purpose of this study is to verify the prognostic role of pre‐operative CEA at the individual level, in a New Zealand cohort of colorectal cancer patients. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of patients undergoing potentially curative surgery for colorectal adenocarcinoma between 2010 and 2012 at a tertiary hospital in New Zealand. One hundred and thirty‐nine patients had pre‐operative CEA data available and were included in the study. The main outcomes measured were overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) over a minimum of 5 years of follow up. Results: Pre‐operative CEA was requested in 138 out of 237 (58.2%) patients undergoing surgery. The median age was 71 years and median follow‐up duration 61 months. High CEA was not associated with the incidence of disease recurrence (P = 0.69). A significant difference was found between high and low CEA for OS (P = 0.09) and DFS (P = 0.04). On multi‐variate survival analysis, pre‐operative CEA was identified as an independent predictor of OS (HR 2.50, 95% CI 1.17–5.36, P = 0.02) and DFS (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.02–3.13, P = 0.04). Conclusion: We identified pre‐operative CEA as an independent predictor of OS and DFS on an individual level. CEA offers additional prognostic value to TNM staging and should be requested routinely as part of the pre‐operative work‐up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The modern literature includes only limited information regarding mortality rates and cumulative survival following patella fractures. The aim was to report the 30-day, six-month, and one-year mortality of patients with patella fractures and compare this to the mortality of a matched reference population.Methods: All patients who sustained a patella fracture in Denmark between 1996 and 2000 were included in the study. The survival status of these patients was monitored until 2015. We compare the mortality with a ten-fold reference population matched on age and gender without a prior patella fracture.Results: 6096 patients were treated for 6114 patella fractures. The mean age of patients was 48.9 years. The overall mortality rates at 30 days, six months, and one year were 0.7%, 1.8%, and 2.8%. The mortality rates for patients > 65 years at 30 days, six months, and one year were 1.3%, 3.9%, and 6.2%. The mortality rates for patients at ≤ 65 years at 30 days, six months, and one year were 0.4%, 0.9%, and 1.3%. Compared to the matched reference population, the relative risk of mortality in patients > 65 years at 30 days, six months, and one year were 1.9 (95% CI 1.2-2.9), 1.0 (95% CI 0.8-1.3), and 0.9 (95% CI 0.7-1.1).Conclusion: The overall one-year mortality rate of patella fractures was 2.8% and this was increased to 6.2% in patients older than 65 years. In elderly patients above 65 years, the relative risk of death was 0.9, indicating that patella fractures in elderly patients were not associated with an increased mortality rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils with high exchangeable sodium contents have structural and hydrological problems that limit agricultural productivity. Gypsum is commonly applied as an ameliorant but there are few field studies into its long-term (> 10 years) effects on soil chemistry, especially at depths greater than 0.4 m, and no long-term validation of the gypsum requirement model. The aim of this study was to address these two knowledge gaps. This was achieved by a) carrying out a field study of the effects of repeated gypsum applications, irrigation, and sugarcane cultivation to 1.25 m depth over a 26-year period in Australia, and b) assessing the ability of the gypsum requirement model to predict changes in exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) more broadly, using 53 unique cases from 17 field studies (> 1 year). In our field study, the greatest reductions in exchangeable sodium (up to 5.49 %; p < 0.05) occurred between 0.25 and 1.00 m depth, where initial concentrations were highest. The amount of sodium (16.47 cmol c /m2), magnesium (2.49 cmol c /m2), and potassium (0.65 cmol c /m2) displaced was less than the amount of calcium gained (36.76 cmol c /m2) over the profile. Most calcium was retained in the application layer (0.00–0.25 m) but some moved down to at least 1.25 m. Reductions in exchangeable sodium were smaller than in all previous long-term studies, possibly due to lower deep drainage rates (39–45 mm/year) and increased pH. Assessment of the gypsum requirement model showed that predicted final ESP deviated widely from measured ESP in many cases (95 % of predictions deviated by >10 %), presumably due to interactions between pH, clay type, carbonate, climate, management, and cation exchange equilibria. By adjusting two model parameters, the effect of gypsum on ESP was more accurately predicted (20 % of predictions were within 10 % of measured ESP) making it a useful tool for farmers. • Long-term gypsum use increases exchangeable calcium to 1.25 m depth in dry tropics. • Less exchangeable sodium is lost than expected based on the amount of calcium added. • Low drainage at 1.25 m depth after gypsum and irrigation due to persistent sodicity. • Gypsum requirement model underestimates sodium displacement across diverse regions. • Simple adjustments to the gypsum requirement model significantly improve accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case report presents a 40-year-old patient with a vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) secreting high grade (Ki-67 39%) neuroendocrine tumor (NET) from the pancreas, for whom successful liver transplantation (LT) was carried out 8 years after resection of the primary tumor due to massive liver metastases. The transplantation was done as rescue therapy due to rapid progression and a devastating clinical condition requiring intravenous supplementation for 20 hours daily. The latest imaging carried out 18 months after transplantation is without signs of recurrence, and the patient is in good health with undetectable levels of VIP. According to the guidelines, LT is only recommended if Ki-67 is <20% and if there has been tumor control for more than 6 months prior to transplantation. Our case illustrates that LT is an option that should be considered for selected NET patients without extrahepatic involvement regardless of tumor grade and clinical condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Should the public sector become more like the private sector? This is a key question in debates about public management. However, the public/private distinction includes many elements. Two of these are ownership and competition. These aspects are not always sorted out empirically. Another challenge is that dissimilar functional areas are studied which makes it difficult to isolate effects of privatization as such. We respond to these challenges by carrying out an empirical analysis of job satisfaction among teachers who teach Danish to immigrants. The teachers work in comparable schools, carry out the same task, and are subject to the same performance management system, but some of the schools are public, some are private, and some have been subject to competitive tendering. We demonstrate that competition has a greater impact than ownership upon job satisfaction. We also show that one of the key mechanisms which translate competition into reduced job satisfaction relates to changing relations between managers and employees. Advocates and opponents of privatization alike should pay more attention to specific aspects and mechanisms related to privatization, in particular the element of competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dominant research evaluation systems potentially lead to a homogenization of research. A focus on the total number of citations or journal impact factors can motivate researchers in non-English contexts to publish in English only. Efforts to publish in languages other than English run the risk of becoming 'lost science'. The purpose of this article is to offer an indicator, the PLOTE-index, which measures the percentage of citations flowing from the non-English publications of a researcher or a group of researchers. If the spread of citations over language areas is measured, it becomes visible. Only then can it be analyzed, debated, and evaluated. In a feasibility study, PLOTE scores are calculated for 40 professors in political science in Denmark. The relation between the PLOTE-index and total number of citations is discussed. Variations across subfields are demonstrated and discussed, as well as a decline in PLOTE scores over time. The potential use of the PLOTE-index in research policy, research evaluation, strategy-making, and recruitment is discussed, as well as future developments of the index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve high resonance frequencies and quality factors of pyrolytic carbon MEMS string resonators the resonator material needs to have a large tensile stress. In this study, the influence of pyrolysis temperature, dwell time and ramping rate on the residual stress in thin pyrolytic carbon films is investigated with the bending plate method. The results show that the pyrolysis temperature is the most important parameter for tailoring the residual stress, with a transition from tensile stress at temperature below 800 º C to compressive stress at temperatures above 800 º C. Two kinds of photoresist: positive (AZ5214E) and negative (SU-8) and different pyrolysis conditions are used to fabricate pyrolytic carbon string resonators at variable pyrolysis conditions. The best performance is obtained for devices with a length of 400 μm fabricated at a pyrolysis temperature of 700 º C, ramping rate of 30 º C/min and 10 min dwell time corresponding to the conditions for maximum tensile stress in pyrolytic carbon thin films. The optimized pyrolytic carbon string resonators have resonant frequencies above 300 kHz and quality factors (Q) in the order of 10 4 , which is suitable for their application as nanomechanical sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent developments in perioperative pathophysiology and care have documented evidence-based, multimodal rehabilitation (fast-track) to hasten recovery and decrease morbidity and hospital stay in several major surgical procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect over time of a modified previously published fast-track programme in unselected patients undergoing open or laparoscopic liver resection.Methods: A prospective study includes the first 121 consecutive patients following an updated fast-track programme for liver resection. High-dose methylprednisolone was given to all patients before surgery, catheters and drains were systematically removed early, and patients were mobilized and started eating and drinking from the day of surgery. An opioid-sparing multimodal pain treatment was given for the first week. The discharge criteria were (1) pain sufficiently controlled by oral analgesics only; (2) patient comfortable with discharge; (3) no untreated complications.Results: The median length of stay (LOS) for all patients was 4 days, with 2 days after laparoscopic vs. 4 days for open resections. The median LOS after major hepatectomies (≥3 segments) was 5 days. The readmission rate was 6% and the 30-day mortality zero. The LOS decreased compared to our first-generation fast-track programme with LOS 5 days.Conclusions: Fast-track principles for perioperative care and early discharge are safe even after major liver resection. The introduction of high-dose steroids preoperatively might have facilitated a shorter LOS. Routine discharge on POD 1 or 2 after laparoscopic resection and on POD 4 after open liver resection has proven to be feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Insecticides are important drivers of biodiversity loss and ecological impairment in freshwater ecosystems. Freshwater insects may be exposed to insecticides via water during larval/nymph stages and via air, habitats, and food during adult stages in the terrestrial environment. The aquatic risk assessment (RA) of pesticides does not consider terrestrial life stages, and a literature review revealed that pesticide ecotoxicity data for adult freshwater insects are very scarce and outdated. Consequently, it is not possible to assess how adult freshwater insects may be protected through RA programs for terrestrial non‐target organisms. We give guidance to generating and using of such ecotoxicity data focusing on species selection, test design and type of ecotoxicity information. Policy implications. This commentary considers how terrestrial stages of aquatic insects are protected by pesticide risk assessment (RA) and highlights the necessity of performing holistic risk assessment, focusing on organisms and populations as supplement to current subdivisions in element‐based compartments (e.g. aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When a system specified using the Vienna Development Method (VDM) is realised using code-generation, no guarantees are currently made about the correctness of the generated code. In this paper, we improve codegeneration of VDM models by taking contract-based elements such as invariants and pre- and postconditions into account during the code-generation process. The contractbased elements of the Vienna Development Method Specification Language (VDM-SL) are translated into corresponding constructs in the Java Modelling Language (JML) and used to validate the generated code against the properties of the VDM model. VDM-SL and JML are both Design-by-Contract (DbC) languages, with the difference that VDM-SL supports abstract modelling and system specification, while JML is used for detailed specification of Java classes and interfaces. We describe the semantic differences between the contract-based elements of VDMSL and JML and formulate the translation as a set of rules. We further demonstrate how dynamic JML assertion checks can be used to ensure the consistency of VDM's subtypes when a model is code-generated. The translator is fully automated and produces JML-annotated Java programs that can be checked for correctness using JML tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term outcomes following complex fractures of the tibia are reported to carry a risk of knee pain, malalignment, articular injury and post-traumatic osteoarthritis. The main objective of this study was to account for the patient-reported quality of life (QOL) 12 months after ring fixator removal in patients with a complex tibial fracture. Secondary objectives included a review of the socio-economic characteristics of the patient group and the rate of return to work in the study period. A prospective follow-up study was conducted of 60 patients with complex fractures of the tibia treated with ring external fixation. Patient-reported outcomes, radiological outcomes and socio-economic status including employment status of the patients were obtained 12 months after frame removal. Forty-six patients completed the assessment 12 months after frame removal (77%). The mean age of the patient at the time of fracture was 54.6 years (range 31-86). There were 19 males and 27 females. At 12 months after frame removal, the mean EQ5D-5L index was 0.66 (CI 0.60-0.72). The mean EQ5D-5L VAS was 69 (CI 61-76). When this was compared to the established reference population from Denmark, the study population showed a significantly worse EQ5D-5L index. The majority of patients (87%) were in the lower social classes suggesting a higher degree of social deprivation in the study population. Twenty-seven per cent of patients who were employed prior to injury had returned to employment at approximately 19 months following fracture. The onset of post-traumatic osteoarthritis was present in the knee joint in 29% of patients following a proximal intra-articular fracture, whereas osteoarthritis was present at the ankle joint in 35% of patients following a distal intra-articular fracture 12 months after frame removal. This study indicates that at 12 months after frame removal there are poorer patient-reported QOL as when compared to reference populations. Furthermore, this study suggests that complex tibial fractures are associated with lower social classes and that only 27% of patients in this sample, who prior to injury were employed, had returned to employment at approximately 19 months after the injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This analysis integrates regional models of power system reliability, output from atmosphere-ocean general circulation models, and results from the Interruption Cost Estimate (ICE) Calculator to project long-run costs to electric utility customers from power interruptions under different future severe weather and electricity system scenarios. We discuss the challenges when attempting to model long-run costs to utility customers including the use of imperfect metrics to measure severe weather. Despite these challenges, initial findings show that discounted cumulative customer costs, through the middle of the century, could range from $1.5-$3.4 trillion ($2015) without aggressive undergrounding of the power system and increased utility operations and maintenance (O&M) spending and $1.5-$2.5 trillion with aggressive undergrounding and increased spending. By the end of the century, cumulative customer costs could range from $1.9-$5.6 trillion (without aggressive undergrounding and increased spending) and $2.0-$3.6 trillion (with aggressive undergrounding and increased spending). We find that, in some scenarios, aggressive undergrounding of distribution lines and increased O&M spending is not always cost-effective. We conclude by identifying important topics for follow-on research, which have the potential to improve the cost estimates of this model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. The objective was to investigate the long-term development of pain and hyperalgesia after patella fractures. The secondary objective was to report the association between tibiofemoral and patellofemoral osteoarthritis, pain and hyperalgesia. Methods. The study used a cohort design. Patients who were treated for patella fractures between January 2006 and December 2009 were identified. Patients age 20 to 78 years were included. The main outcome was the pain pressure threshold (PPT). Moreover, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, radiological outcomes of patellofemoral and tibiofemoral osteoarthritis and the pain subscale of the WOMAC and EQ-5D questionnaires were used. Results. Forty-nine patients were included, with a mean age of 53.9 years and a mean follow-up time of 8.5 years. The injured knee region showed significantly decreased PPT levels (P< 0.046), but decreases in PPT were not found for the forearm region (P50.24). The VAS score for the worst pain during the last 24 hours was reported, with a mean of 2.9 6 2.4 cm. The EQ-5D-5L-pain scale was reported, with a mean score of 2.4 (95% confidence interval [CI] 5 2.0-2.7). The WOMAC Pain score was reported, with a mean score of 3.9 (95% CI52.8- 4.9). Moderate correlations were found between the VAS scores and PPT levels (R50.428, P50.002). Weak correlations were found between VAS scores and PPT levels for site 7 (forearm; R50.313, P50.03). Conclusions. The present study suggests that longlasting local hyperalgesia following a patella fracture is common. No side-to-side difference at the forearms were observed, indicating that the observed local hyperalgesia was not part of a generalized sensitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As theory-based evaluation (TBE) engages in situations where multiple stakeholders help develop complex program theory about dynamic phenomena in politically contested settings, it becomes difficult to develop and use program theory without ambiguity. The purpose of this article is to explore ambiguity as a fruitful perspective that helps TBE face current challenges. Literatures in organization theory and political theory are consulted in order to cultivate the concept of ambiguity. Janus variables (which work in two ways) and other ambiguous aspects of program theories are classified and exemplified. Stances towards ambiguity are considered, as are concrete steps that TBE evaluators can take to identify and deal with ambiguity in TBE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orientation mapping is a widely used technique for revealing the microstructure of a polycrystalline sample. The crystalline orientation at each point in the sample is determined by analysis of the diffraction pattern, a process known as pattern indexing. A recent development in pattern indexing is the use of a brute-force approach, whereby diffraction patterns are simulated for a large number of crystalline orientations and compared against the experimentally observed diffraction pattern in order to determine the most likely orientation. Whilst this method can robustly identify orientations in the presence of noise, it has very high computational requirements. In this article, the computational burden is reduced by developing a method for nearly optimal sampling of orientations. By using the quaternion representation of orientations, it is shown that the optimal sampling problem is equivalent to that of optimally distributing points on a four-dimensional sphere. In doing so, the number of orientation samples needed to achieve a desired indexing accuracy is significantly reduced. Orientation sets at a range of sizes are generated in this way for all Laue groups and are made available online for easy use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]