bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recruitment of ethnic minorities for public health research: An interpretive synthesis of experiences from six interlinked Danish studies
Authors: Nielsen Annemette Ljungdalh , Smith Jervelund Signe , Villadsen Sarah Fredsted , Vitus Kathrine , Ditlevsen Kia , TØrslev Mette Kirstine , Kristiansen Maria
Published: January 2017

Aims: This paper examines the importance of recruitment site in relation to the recruitment of ethnic minorities into health research. It presents a synthesis of experiences drawn from six interlinked Danish studies which applied different methods and used healthcare facilities and educational settings as sites for recruitment. Methods: Inspired by interpretive reviewing, data on recruitment methods from the different studies were synthesized with a focus on the various levels of recruitment success achieved. This involved an iterative process of comparison, analysis and discussion of experiences among the researchers involved. Results: Success in recruitment seemed to depend partly on recruitment site. Using healthcare facilities as the recruitment site and healthcare professionals as gatekeepers was less efficient than using schools and employees from educational institutions. Successful study designs also depended on the possibility of singling out specific locations with a high proportion of the relevant ethnic minority target population. Conclusions:The findings, though based on a small number of cases, indicate that health professionals and healthcare institutions, despite their interest in high-quality health research into all population groups, fail to facilitate research access to some of the most disadvantaged groups, who need to be included in order to understand the mechanisms behind health disparities. This happens despite the genuine wish of many healthcare professionals to help facilitate such research. In this way, the findings indirectly emphasize the specific challenge of accessing more vulnerable and sick groups in research studies.
Introduction of New Technology: The Surgical Point of View
Authors: Bergqvist D.
Published: January 2017

Introduction of new non-pharmacological technology is challenging and the methodology for evaluationg such technologies is much less standardized than when dealing with new pharmacological substances. It is, however, as important to use randomized design with blinded assessment and combine that with prospective population based registries to be able to analyze generalizability.
Retained Surgical Foreign Bodies: A Comprehensive Review of Risks and Preventive Strategies
Authors: Stawicki S. P. , Evans D. C. , Cipolla J. , Seamon M. J. , Lukaszczyk J. J. , Prosciak M. P. , Torigian D. A. , Doraiswamy V. A. , Yazzie N. P. , Gunter O. L. , Steinberg S. M.
Published: January 2017

Given the increasing complexity of both the modern health care environment and the overall patient population, reduction of medical errors is a high priority task for health policy makers and medical/surgical community alike. The problem of retained surgical foreign bodies (RSFB) has existed ever since the humans first performed surgical procedures. Retained surgical foreign bodies continue to be a significant problem with an incidence between 0.3 and 1.0 per 1,000 abdominal operations. Retained surgical foreign bodies have the potential to cause harm to the patient and carry profound professional and medico-legal consequences to surgical trainees, surgical practitioners, hospitals, and health systems. Currently, there are no known methods of entirely eliminating the occurrence of RSFB. In this manuscript, the authors discuss the available evidence with regards to risk factors associated with RSFB as well as methods of minimizing the incidence of RSFB. Modern technological advances designed to decrease the incidence of RSFB (radio-frequency tagging of surgical sponges) and improved perioperative patient processing (multiple ‘checks and balances’ and better provider-to-provider communication) are reviewed. The authors also explore the relationship between RSFB and surgical training with emphasis on education in early recognition, prevention, and focus on teamoriented training strategies.
Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Tumor of the Pancreas (IPMT): Follow-Up of Twelve Cases
Authors: Khalid A. , Funch-Jensen P. , Bendix J. , Hamilton S. Dutoit , Kruse A. , Mortensen F. Viborg
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

Intraductal papillary mucinous tumours (IPMT) were described as a distinct entity in I982. The extent of surgical resection for this disease remains controversial.

Methods:

Twelve patients with a diagnosis of IPMT were included in the present retrospective study.

Results:

Ten out of twelve patients had symptoms suggesting chronic pancreatitis. Two patients were not operated on due to biopsy-verified metastases in the liver. Nine patients were treated with a total pancreatectomy and one with a pancreaticoduodenectomy. In the ten patients operated on for IPMT, histological examination showed eight non-invasive- and two invasive carcinomas. In six cases, multifocal extensive intraductal changes were found, affecting either most of or the whole pancreas. There was no perioperative mortality. Six patients were alive at follow-up without recurrence and four patients were dead, two of them with recurrence.

Conclusion:

IPMTs represent a subgroup of pancreatic neoplasms with a favourable prognosis, and the resection should aim at removing all dysplastic foci. In cases with diffuse dilatation of the main pancreatic duct, widespread tumour involvement of the duct system can be expected and total pancreatectomy should be the operation of choice.
Accuracy of Sentinel Node Biopsy in Breast Cancer Patients with a High Prevalence of Axillary Metastases
Authors: Moghimi M. , Ghoddosi I. , Rahimabadi A. E. , Sheikhvatan M.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) has become a standard diagnostic tool for axillary staging of breast cancer and has many advantages in comparison with axillary dissection. The goal of our study was to determine accuracy and predictive value of SLNB for assessing the axillary lymph nodes involvement in breast cancer.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty three patients with breast cancer at Mehr and Taleghani hospitals in Tehran between July 2005 and 2006 were randomly selected. All women underwent presurgical lymphoscintigraphic mapping followed by sentinel node biopsy guided by intraoperative gamma probe and blue dye. Sentinel nodes were examined by standard hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Among studied patients, T1 stage accounted for 3%% of the patients, T2 for 6%, T3 for 66.7% and T4 for 24.3%. Statistical analyses were performed by evaluating of sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values of SLNB in comparison to axillary lymph node dissection (ALND).

Results:

The sentinel lymph nodes in 30.3% of patients were well imaged by lymphoscintigraphy. A mean of 4.8 sentinel lymph nodes were removed per patient. Sensitivity and specificity of SLNB were 92% and 87.5%, respectively. Totally, in comparison to ALND, the accuracy of SLNB was 90.9% and false negative rate of this method was also 8%.

Conclusion:

Our experience shows SLNB to be reliable and accurate for axillary staging in breast cancer patients with a high prevalence of axillary metastases and can be replaced diagnostic ALND in our breast cancer centers.
Graphical timeline software for inpatient medication review
Authors: Gordon William J , Bhan Ishir
Published: January 2017

MedHistory is a web-based software module that graphically displays medication usage (y-axis) against time (x-axis). We set out to examine whether MedHistory would improve clinician’s interactions with the medical record system. The authors invited house-officers at our institution to complete a survey about inpatient medication administration before and after using MedHistory. Detailed logs were also kept for 1 year after the study period. Compared to the pre-intervention survey, the post-intervention survey found that reviewing medication history was easier (pre: 13.2% vs post: 32.4%, p = .008), that medication review now fit within resident workflow (38.9% vs 75.7%, p < .001), and that there was increased satisfaction with the electronic health records software (2.6% vs 29.7%, p = .002). Additionally, determining the timing (29% vs 50.1%, p = .045) and dosing history (21.1% vs. 43.2%, p = .036) of inpatient medication administration was easier with MedHistory. Anti-infective agents and drugs requiring frequent adjustments were the most commonly reviewed. A graphical timeline of inpatient medications (MedHistory) was met with favorable response across multiple areas, including efficiency, speed, safety, and workflow.
Experiences of healthcare assistants working with clients with dementia in residential care homes
Authors: Law Katharine , Patterson Tom G , Muers Jane
Published: January 2017

The study aimed to explore the experiences of healthcare assistants working with people with dementia in UK residential care homes. Eight participants completed semi-structured interviews which were analysed by interpretative phenomenological analysis. Data analysis revealed three main themes representing healthcare assistants’ experiences: the importance of relationships, which referred to the importance of their relationships with clients, families and colleagues as well as their attachment to clients; something special about the role, which referred to their perception that their role was unique and rewarding as well as their personal commitment to the job; and the other side of caring, which referred to the more difficult aspects of their role, including managing emotions and conflicts within the caring role. The findings indicate that staff should be supported to build strong and supportive relationships within their role and have opportunities to explore their emotional reactions to reduce any adverse impact on care provision. It is possible that this could be facilitated through reflective practice groups or clinical supervision.
Police officer competence in handling Alzheimer’s cases: The roles of AD knowledge, beliefs, and exposure
Authors: Sun Fei , Gao Xiang , Brown Hillary , Winfree L Thomas
Published: January 2017

This study seeks to understand the level of police officer competence for providing assistance during interactions with patients of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and to reveal the roles their knowledge of AD, beliefs of AD, and previous exposure to patients with AD play in influencing these competence levels. Data were collected from police officers in two Phoenix metropolitan-area police departments through focus group discussions and survey. Four focus groups comprised of 27 police officers discussed their perceptions of AD and challenges of dealing with individuals with AD. Building on the findings from the focus groups, an online survey ( n = 228) examined police officer AD knowledge, as well as their experience and competence in the handling of AD cases. Police participants had fair knowledge of AD with an average 71.8% accuracy rate. More AD knowledge ( B = 0.29) and higher levels of education ( B = 0.85) were associated with higher levels of competence of recognizing AD-related behaviors. Low levels of discomfort interacting with AD patients ( B = −0.75) and having a family member of dementia ( B = 1.32) were related to higher levels of competence of reacting appropriately to an AD patient. The findings suggest that information about the best practices for dealing with community residents with AD needs to be made available to police officers. To ensure a dementia-friendly environment, aging service providers need to reach out to local law enforcement departments and provide training that promotes AD knowledge, decreases AD-related stigma, and increases competence of handing dementia cases in a way that fits the policing culture.
Punk Subculture and the Queer Critique of Community on 1980s Cable TV: The Case of New Wave Theatre
Authors: Stiffler Brad
Published: January 2017

If histories of television recognize it all, the relationship between punk subculture and the mass cultural medium of television is often rendered as a story of misreprentation, conflict, or mutual avoidance. Such studies overlook a rich history of punks throughout North America who produced numerous programs for cable television, especially the non-commercial forum of public access, in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Conceiving of TV as a kind of social technology, some punks actively and critically engaged in producing subculture both on and through the medium. This article looks at the case of New Wave Theatre (Theta/KSCI 1979–1983), a Los Angeles–based cable program that featured punk and new-wave bands, performance art, and interviews. It argues that through distinctive performance tactics and production practices, New Wave Theatre developed a form of “subcultural television” rooted in queer “antisociality.”
The Generalizability of Social Pressure Effects on Turnout Across High-Salience Electoral Contexts: Field Experimental Evidence From 1.96 Million Citizens in 17 States
Authors: Gerber Alan S. , Huber Gregory A. , Fang Albert H. , Gooch Andrew
Published: January 2017

Prior experiments show that campaign communications revealing subjects’ past turnout and applying social pressure to vote (the “Self” treatment) increase turnout. However, nearly all existing studies are conducted in low-salience elections, raising concerns that published findings are not generalizable and are an artifact of sample selection and publication bias. Addressing the need for further replication in high-salience elections, we analyze a field experiment involving 1.96 million subjects where a nonpartisan campaign randomly sent Self treatment mailers, containing a subject’s vote history and a comparison of each subject’s history with their state median registrant’s turnout behavior, in high-salience elections across 17 states in 2014. Sending the Self mailer increases turnout by 0.7 points or 2.2%. This effect is largely consistent across states, with somewhat larger effects observed in states with lower ex ante election salience. Our study provides precise evidence that social pressure effects on turnout are generalizable.
In Vivo Effect of a 5-HT7 Receptor Agonist on 5-HT Neurons and GABA Interneurons in the Dorsal Raphe Nuclei of Sham and PD Rats
Authors: Wang Shuang , Zhao Yan , Gao Jie , Guo Yufang , Wang Xiang , Huo Jian , Wei Ping , Cao Jian
Published: January 2017

The 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT; serotonin) neurotransmission is severely affected by the degeneration of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons. Here, we report the effects of the systemic administration of the 5-HT7 receptor agonist AS-19. In sham rats, the mean response of the 5-HT neurons in the dorsal raphe nucleus (DRN) to systemic AS-19 was excitatory and the mean response of the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) interneurons was inhibitory. In Parkinson disease (PD) rats, the same dose did not affect the 5-HT neurons and only high doses (640 μg/kg intravenous) were able to the increase GABA interneuron activity. These results indicate that DRN 5-HT neurons and GABA interneurons are regulated by the activation of 5-HT7 receptors and that the degeneration of the nigrostriatal pathway leads to decreased responses of these neurons to AS-19, which in turn suggests that the 5-HT7 receptors on 5-HT neurons and GABA interneurons in PD rats are dysfunctional and downregulated.
Marital Status and Persons With Dementia in Assisted Living
Authors: Fields Noelle L. , Richardson Virginia E. , Schuman Donna
Published: January 2017

Despite the prevalence of dementia among residents in assisted living (AL), few researchers have focused on the length of stay (LOS) in AL among this population. Little is known about the factors that may contribute to LOS in these settings, particularly for residents with dementia. In the current study, a sub-set of AL residents with dementia (n = 112) was utilized to examine whether marital status was associated with LOS in AL as this has received sparse attention in previous research despite studies suggesting that marital status influences LOS in other health-care and long-term care settings. The Andersen-Newman behavioral model was used as a conceptual framework for the basis of this study of LOS, marital status, and dementia in AL. We hypothesized that persons with dementia who were married would have longer LOS than unmarried persons with dementia in AL. Cox regression was used to examine the association between marital status and LOS in AL of residents with dementia and whether activities of daily living were related to discharge from AL settings among married and unmarried residents with dementia. Main effects for marital status and the interaction between marital status and mobility with LOS were examined. Study findings provide information related to the psychosocial needs of AL residents with dementia and offer implications for assessing the on-going needs of vulnerable AL residents.
Immunoglobulin G4-Related Inflammatory Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Associated With Myasthenia Gravis, With Contained Rupture
Authors: Jun Heungman , Jung Cheol Woong
Published: January 2017

Immunoglobulin (Ig) G4-related disease is reportedly among the various causes of inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm (IAAA). Many IgG4-related diseases are closely related to allergic constitution and autoimmune disease. We report a case of a 72-year-old man with IgG4-related IAAA associated with myasthenia gravis, with contained rupture.
Endovascular Management of Central Retinal Arterial Occlusion
Authors: Agarwal Nitin , Gala Nihar B. , Baumrind Benjamin , Hansberry David R. , Thabet Ahmad M. , Gandhi Chirag D. , Prestigiacomo Charles J.
Published: January 2017

Background and Importance:

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) is an ophthalmologic emergency due to the sudden cessation of circulation to the inner retinal layer. Without immediate treatment, permanent blindness may ensue. Several treatment options exist, ranging from noninvasive medical management to thrombolysis. Nonetheless, ongoing debate exists regarding the best therapeutic strategy.

Case Presentation:

The authors present the case of a 78-year-old woman with a medical history of hypercholesterolemia and rheumatoid arthritis who experienced complete loss of vision in her left eye. Following ophthalmologic evaluation demonstrating left CRAO, anterior chamber paracentesis was performed. Endovascular intervention was performed via local intra-arterial fibrinolysis with alteplase. Her vision returned to 20/20 following the procedure. In general, conventional therapies have not significantly improved patient outcomes.

Conclusion:

Several management options exist for CRAO. In general, conservative measures have not been reported to yield better patient outcomes as compared to the natural history of this medical emergency. Endovascular approaches are another option as observed with this case reported. In cases of CRAO, therapeutic strategies such as intra-arterial fibrinolysis utilize a local infusion of reactive tissue plasminogen activator directly at the site of occlusion via catheterization of the ophthalmic artery. Although several case series do show promising results after treating CRAO with intra-arterial fibrinolysis, further studies are required given the reports of complications.
International Occupational Therapy Research Priorities
Authors:   World Federation of Occupational Therapists, Mackenzie Lynette , Coppola Susan , Alvarez Liliana , Cibule Lolita , Maltsev Sergey , Loh Siew Yim , Mlambo Tecla , Ikiugu Moses N. , Pihlar Zdenka , Sriphetcharawut Sarinya , Baptiste Sue , Ledgerd Richard
Published: January 2017

Occupational therapy is a global profession represented by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT). International research priorities are needed for strategic guidance on global occupational therapy practice. The objective of this study was to develop international research priorities to reflect global occupational therapy practice. A Delphi study using three rounds of electronic surveys, distributed to WFOT member organizations and WFOT accredited universities, was conducted. Data were analyzed after each round, and priorities were presented for rating and ranking in order of importance. Forty-six (53%) out of 87 WFOT member countries participated in the Delphi process. Eight research priorities were confirmed by the final electronic survey round. Differences were observed in rankings given by member organizations and university respondents. Despite attrition at Round 3, the final research priorities will help to focus research efforts in occupational therapy globally. Follow-up research is needed to determine how the research priorities are being adopted internationally.
Angiographic Findings and Clinical Significance of the Anterior and Posterior Spinal Arteries in Therapeutic Parent Artery Occlusion for Vertebral Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Iwai T. , Naito I. , Shimaguchi H. , Suzuki T. , Tomizawa S.
Published: January 2017

Three of 16 patients with vertebral artery (VA) aneurysms treated by parent artery occlusion suffered ischemic complications.

The cause of the ischemic complications was brain stem or upper cervical spinal cord infarction due to occlusion of the anterior spinal artery (ASA), posterior spinal artery (PSA) and perforating arteries arising from the VA. Angiographic detection of ASA and PSA was studied in 71 consecutive patients (142 VAs) with various diseases who underwent digital subtraction angiography. The ASA and PSA originated from the bilateral VAs in 14% and 9%, unilateral VA in 73% and 35%, and were not detected in 13% and 56%, respectively.

These results indicate that the rate of angiographic detection of the ASA originating from the bilateral VAs is considerably lower than that of previously reported anatomical studies. Special attention must be paid to the ASA, PSA and perforating arteries on preoperative vertebral angiography to prevent ischemic complications associated with therapeutic parent artery occlusion for VA aneurysms.
Associated Cerebral and Spinal AVM in Infant and Adult
Authors: Mazighi M. , Porter P. , Alvarez H. , Rodesch G. , Meisel J. , Brock M. , Lasjaunias P.
Published: January 2017

We report two cases of a rare association of brain and spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in an infant and in an adult. Both patients were embolised with glue with good clinical and morphological results.

The first patient is an infant with a suspected family history of Rendu Osler Weber disease with multiple AVMs: two hemispheric cerebellar lesions (one of them revealed by a ventricular haemorrhage) and one cervical spinal cord AVM (SCAVM). The associated SCAVM fortuitously bled one month after treatment of the symptomatic cerebellar AV shunt.

In the adult case, the management first involved a symptomatic SCAVM with favourable outcome; the cerebral AVM bled secondarily and was then excluded by endovascular approach.
Inflammatory Response in Infective Endocarditis
Authors: Deviri E. , Glenville B.E.
Published: January 2017

Endocarditis remains a devastating disease with a high mortality despite timely diagnosis and treatment. The mainstays of treatment include appropriate antibiotics and when indicated, removal of the septic focus. This sounds extremely simple and belies the necessity for a sophisticated multidisciplinary approach to its treatment, the success of which depends not just on the right antibiotic at the right dosage via the right portal, but also on a profound understanding of the inflammatory and infective pathophysiology at work. This review aims at assisting both the clinician and the lab-based physician in the task.
Intrarenal Resistive Index in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with and without Microalbuminuria
Authors: Sperandeo M. , Varriale A. , D'Amico G. , Sperandeo G. , Piattelli M.L. , de Cata A. , Greco A. , Prigigallo F. , Annese M.A. , Cedrone L. , Vendemiale G.
Published: January 2017

Diabetic nephropathy affects a subset of about 30% of patients with type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM); it also develops in a less defined percentage (20–30%) of patients with type 2, after a period of 15–20 years. It is usually divided into stages. The aim of this study is to assess the usefulness of duplex sonography with Doppler wave form analysis in the evaluation of early diabetic nephropathy, in order to detect patients at risk for irreversible renal disease. 262 patients (61 males, 201 females; age range: 48–81 years) with type 2 diabetes mellitus were studied; 100 healthy volunteers with no evidence of diabetes mellitus (74 females, 26 males; age range: 50–80 years) composed the control group. All of them underwent duplex Doppler sonography of the kidneys; a scanner with a 3.5 MHz transducer (Toshiba 270 SSA) was used, Pulsatily Index (P.I.) and Resistive Index (R.I.) of Doppler waveform were obtained at the intrarenal arteries; the average value of 3 bilateral measurements was taken. Doppler sonography was done by the same authors without knowledge of the patient group (case or control). Both indexes (PI. and R.I.) resulted to be higher in patients with DM compared to controls in patients with microalbuminuria: PI. = 1.49 +/- 0.34 vs. 1.07 +/- 0.06, p< 0.05; R.I. = 0.79 +/- 0.15 vs 0.60 +/- 0.03, p<0.05. Even if our data have to be confirmed by further studies, they suggest that duplex Doppler sonography may be a useful complementary test in the evaluation of diabetic nephropathy, especially in the early stages, in order to identify more patients at risk of developing diabetic nephropathy.
Delayed Interval Delivery of a Second Twin: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Daniilidis A. , Mavromichali M. , Klearhou N. , Karagiannis T. , Karagiannis V.
Published: January 2017

We report a case of diamniotic, dichorionic pregnancy that presented at 26 weeks with premature rupture of the first amniotic sac. Nine days later, premature labour and delivery of the first male twin took place, with death of the first twin. The second twin was left in utero. The management included combination of tocolytics, antibiotics and cervical cerclage. Caesarean section was performed 48 days later, at 34 weeks due to breech presentation and contractions. We delivered a live male infant with apgar scores 4/1 and 7/5 and 1680 gr weight. The infant was discharged home 29 days later.
The Immunology of Immediate and Delayed Hypersensitivity Reaction to Gluten
Authors: Vojdani A. , O'Bryan T. , Kellermann G.H.
Published: January 2017

The immunology of gluten hypersensitivity and celiac disease has been pursued with significant interest in the past 20 years. For the prevention of systemic diseases, most pathogens that gain entry into our bodies must be met with an effective immune response, yet in the gastrointestinal tract it is equally important that commensal bacteria and a diverse collection of dietary proteins and peptides be recognized without eliciting an active immune response or constant activation of the inflammatory pathway. This phenomenon of hyporesponsiveness to food antigens is known as oral tolerance. This oral tolerance to dietary antigens is maintained by three different mechanisms: anergy, cell deletion and immune suppression. However, in the presence of mechanical/chemical stressors and infections, this tolerance may break down, and gut associated lymphoid tissues (GALT) will react to different luminal antigens. The reaction of GALT to these antigens may lead to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, opening of tight junctions, entry of undigested antigens into the circulation, and the subsequent production of IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE antibodies in blood and secretory components. Like any other food hypersensitivity reaction, gluten sensitivity can be divided into immediate and delayed hypersensitivities. In this review an attempt is made first to differentiate immediate hypersensitivity to gliadin, mediated by IgE, from delayed hypersensitivity, which is mediated by IgA and IgG. Furthermore, we attempt to differentiate between gluten hypersensitivity with enteropathy (celiac disease) and gluten hypersensitivity without enteropathy.
Nebivolol Increases Atrial Natriuretic Peptide/Systolic Blood Pressure Ratio in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Papadopoulos P.C. , Kokkas B. , Kotridis P. , Aidonidis G. , Koutsimanis V. , Karnaras D. , Vogiatzis I. , Dadoush G. , Karamouzis M. , Kouyoumtzis A. , Sakantamis G. , Hatseras D. , Papadopoulos C.L.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate the medium term treatment effects of the beta-blocker nebivolol on the endogenous anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory agent Atrial Natriuretic Peptide (ANP) plasma levels in patients with moderate uncomplicated essential hypertension. The drug was given orally for 30 days to 25 patients. The daily dose was 5 mg once every morning. Quantitative determination of ANP was made by Radioimmunoassay (RIA). At the end of this clinical trial, plasma ANP levels showed a statistically non significant tendency to increase by 10.99% while both systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure as well as the diameters of the left cardiac cavities showed a statistically significant decrease. What was interesting was the fact that there was a statistically significant increase of 44.7% in the ratio ANP/SBP following the reduction of arterial blood pressure. This increase was the most important and essential finding as it indicated a real increase of ANP plasma levels. This result was obtained even though pressure and afterload, the homologous mechanical stimulatory parameters for ANP secretion, of the left cavities were diminished. These findings provide strong indications which were supported by several previous trials, that the increase in plasma ANP following the administration of beta-adrenergic blockers to hypertensive patients was a primary effect of beta blockade and not a mechanical one secondary to a negative inotropic action on the left ventricle. This primary action contributed to the anti-hypertensive effect of nebivolol during this trial.
Experimental Study of the Effects of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Thyroid Axis on Platelet Functional Activity
Authors: Negrev N.N. , Radev R.Z. , Velikova M.S. , Anogeianaki A.
Published: January 2017

The hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis exert various effects in organism, but their influence on the functional activity of platelets is relatively unknown. To establish the effect of the hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis on the functional activity of platelets by means of determining the plasma level of beta-thromboglobulin (β-TG) and platelet factor 4 (PF4) a study was conducted on 40 white male rats of the “Wistar” breed. The necessary blood volume was obtained under ether narcosis by cardiac puncture in CTAD-test-tubes. Using Diagnostica Stago (France) tests, by means of enzyme-immune test, the level of two of the most informative platelet secretion markers was determined. The hormones: Thyreotropin releasing hormone (0.06 mg/kg bw), Thyroid stimulating hormone (1 MU/kg bw), Trijodthyroninum (0.08 mg/kg bw), Thyroxin (0.08 mg/kg bw), applied s.c. on three consecutive days strongly reduce the plasma level of β-TG (p<0.001) and PF 4 (p < 0.001). The reduced level of β-TG and PF 4 in the plasma is an indicator of their reduced functional activity, which is one of the determinants for the development of hemocoagulation. The functional activity of platelets in rats, determined by the level of β-TG and PF 4, is significantly suppressed by all hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis.
Inter-Relationship between Chemokines and Mast Cells
Authors: Castellani M.L. , Anogeianaki A. , Toniato E. , De Lutiis M.A. , Felaco P. , Fulcheri M. , Vecchiet J. , Tetè S. , Salini V. , Caraffa A. , Antinolfi P. , Theoharides T.C. , Conti F. , Cuccurullo C. , Ciampoli C. , Felaco M. , Orso C. , Cerulli G. , Frydas I. , Shaik B.
Published: January 2017

The inflammatory response is mediated by immunological and chemotactic factors, proteins of the complement system, histamine, serotonin, arachidonic acid products and cytokines. All these compounds, including cytokines/chemokines, are major contributors to the symptoms of inflammation. Cytokines/chemokines, commonly referred to as “biological response modifiers”, are relatively new compounds for possible use in stimulation of the immune response, and display a number of overlapping abilities to stimulate cells of various lineages and differentiation stages; nonetheless, most of these compounds are potent inflammatory mediators. Mast cell mediators are either contained within secretory granules or can be synthesized de novo and can be released upon activation by either a massive degranulation, or by a selective release of specific molecules. These cells accumulate in the stroma of a variety of inflamed and transformed tissues in response to locally produced chemotactic factors for immune-cells, such as RANTES and MCP-1. Here we describe some connections between mast cells and chemokines.
Survival Time of Nasal Mucous Membrane Ciliated Cells: A Preliminary Study of Cytological Examination by Phase-Contrast Microscopy
Authors: Gelardi M. , Cassano M. , Cassano P. , Fiorella M.L. , Russo C. , Fiorella R. , di Gioacchino G. , Schiavone C. , di Gioacchino M. , Ciprandi G.
Published: January 2017

The observation of the ciliated cell dynamics by phase-contrast microscope has allowed a profound study of some parameters of the cellular components. The aim of this preliminary study is to assess the surviving time of ciliary cells using the phase-contrast microscope. Nasal cytology was carried out on 50 healthy volunteers. The ciliary beat time was assessed by a video-camera connected with a PC. The time of ciliary beat persistence was extraordinarily long (mean 210 minutes, with range 74–1260). The ciliary activity remained valid as rhythm, synchronism and metachronality. In conclusion, this preliminary study demonstrated that cilia has an energetic autonomy of great importance, able to allow a valid functional activity also in the case of partial sufferance of the cellular unit.
Intra-Articular Injections of Infliximab in the Treatment of Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: Case Reports and Review of Literature
Authors: Migliore A. , Padalino C. , Massafra U. , Bizzi E. , Tormenta S. , Capuano A. , Iannessi F. , Monno D. , Zaccari G. , Granata M.
Published: January 2017

Inflammatory chronic diseases involving joints together with other organs are usually treated with a systemic approach. In a few cases, where arthritis is not responsive to traditional treatments, an intraarticular (I.A.) therapy could be useful. Furthermore, patients not eligible for systemic therapy with anti-TNF or other DMARDs, as well as patients with an initial arthritis with the involvement of a single joint, such as the knee or hip joint, could use the I.A. injection therapy. In this article we report our experience with five patients affected by rheumatic inflammatory diseases, not responding to traditional systemic DMARDs-based therapies or not eligible for systemic use of biological response modifiers who underwent ultrasound-guided I.A. injection of Infliximab. Three of 5 patients showed a positive and long-lasting response to treatment with local Infliximab. Safety profile was good according to literature data. Moreover, in this article we review the literature on this therapeutic approach. This is the first report of I.A. use of Infliximab in the hip joint.
Security of patient data when decommissioning ultrasound systems
Authors: Moggridge James
Published: January 2017

Background

Although ultrasound systems generally archive to Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS), their archiving workflow typically involves storage to an internal hard disk before data are transferred onwards. Deleting records from the local system will delete entries in the database and from the file allocation table or equivalent but, as with a PC, files can be recovered. Great care is taken with disposal of media from a healthcare organisation to prevent data breaches, but ultrasound systems are routinely returned to lease companies, sold on or donated to third parties without such controls.

Methods

In this project, five methods of hard disk erasure were tested on nine ultrasound systems being decommissioned: the system’s own delete function; full reinstallation of system software; the manufacturer’s own disk wiping service; open source disk wiping software for full and just blank space erasure. Attempts were then made to recover data using open source recovery tools.

Results

All methods deleted patient data as viewable from the ultrasound system and from browsing the disk from a PC. However, patient identifiable data (PID) could be recovered following the system’s own deletion and the reinstallation methods. No PID could be recovered after using the manufacturer’s wiping service or the open source wiping software.

Conclusion

The typical method of reinstalling an ultrasound system’s software may not prevent PID from being recovered. When transferring ownership, care should be taken that an ultrasound system’s hard disk has been wiped to a sufficient level, particularly if the scanner is to be returned with approved parts and in a fully working state.
No Clinically Significant Difference Between Adult and Pediatric IKDC Subjective Knee Evaluation Scores in Adults
Authors: Stegmeier Nicole , Oak Sameer R. , O’Rourke Colin , Strnad Greg , Spindler Kurt P. , Jones Morgan , Farrow Lutul D. , Andrish Jack , Saluan Paul
Published: January 2017

Background:

Two versions of the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation form currently exist: the original version (1999) and a recently modified pediatric-specific version (2011). Comparison of the pediatric IKDC with the adult version in the adult population may reveal that either version could be used longitudinally.

Hypothesis:

We hypothesize that the scores for the adult IKDC and pediatric IKDC will not be clinically different among adult patients aged 18 to 50 years.

Study Design:

Randomized crossover study design.

Level of Evidence:

Level 2.

Methods:

The study consisted of 100 participants, aged 18 to 50 years, who presented to orthopaedic outpatient clinics with knee problems. All participants completed both adult and pediatric versions of the IKDC in random order with a 10-minute break in between. We used a paired t test to test for a difference between the scores and a Welch’s 2-sample t test to test for equivalence. A least-squares regression model was used to model adult scores as a function of pediatric scores, and vice versa.

Results:

A paired t test revealed a statistically significant 1.6-point difference between the mean adult and pediatric scores. However, the 95% confidence interval (0.54-2.66) for this difference did not exceed our a priori threshold of 5 points, indicating that this difference was not clinically important. Equivalence testing with an equivalence region of 5 points further supported this finding. The adult and pediatric scores had a linear relationship and were highly correlated with an R2 of 92.6%.

Conclusion:

There is no clinically relevant difference between the scores of the adult and pediatric IKDC forms in adults, aged 18 to 50 years, with knee conditions.

Clinical Relevance:

Either form, adult or pediatric, of the IKDC can be used in this population for longitudinal studies. If the pediatric version is administered in adolescence, it can be used for follow-up into adulthood.
Do primary care physicians use the 5As in counselling obese patients? A qualitative study
Authors: Lee Jean-Jasmin Mi-Li , Tung Yew Cheong , Tai Kit Ping , Tay Samantha Alexis , Cheng Shu Juan , Ang Seng Bin , Tan Ngiap Chuan
Published: January 2017

Background:

Obesity is a global public health problem. A systematic review showed that intensive behavioural counselling is effective in weight management amongst patients with obesity, but little is known if primary care physicians (PCPs) are involved in delivering such counselling. Studies revealed that patients had weight reduction if they were counselled by PCPs who used the 5As (Ask, Assess, Advise, Agree and Assist) method, but PCPs varied in their use of this tool. We aimed to explore the local PCP modalities of obesity counselling and if their approaches and methods corresponded to the 5As tool.

Methods:

Qualitative data were obtained from interviews with 50 PCPs from public and private primary care practices during six focus group discussions and seven in-depth interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, audited and analysed iteratively based on the grounded theory. Emergent themes were first externally validated, and then finalized after rounds of deliberations amongst the investigators.

Results:

PCPs varied in their approach in obesity counselling, focusing predominantly on “Ask”, “Assess” and “Advise” in the 5As tool. “Asking” was indirect and “Assessment” rarely covered the effects of obesity on psychosocial functioning. Dietary and lifestyle modifications were the main foci in “Advise”. “Agree” was least performed. Polyclinic doctors tended to “Assist” patients with referral to other healthcare workers for further weight management, but few deliberately “Arrange” to review progress in weight management, citing barriers.

Conclusion:

PCPs varied in their method of obesity counselling, pending on context and setting of their practices. In contrast to “Ask’, “Assess” and “Advise”, the use of “Agree” and “Arrange” was uncommon.
Translating Festus: The Meaning of περὶ οὗ in Acts 25.18
Authors: Knepper Gert M.
Published: January 2017

In the world of both Bible commentators and translators two different views are offered on the function and meaning of the expression περὶ οὗ as used in Acts 25.18. The central question is whether this expression functions as a direct reference to the similar expression in Acts 25.7, or whether it has its conventional meaning. In this study the author analyses both views, and argues that one of these views is not tenable.
A Sociology of Translation and the Central Role of the Translator
Authors: Berneking Steve
Published: January 2017

Translation studies scholars have recently recognized a definitive “social” turn in the field, leading to the emergence of a sociology of translation which recognizes that translation happens in the mind of translators as social beings who function in multiple roles and negotiate meanings, situated within an environment of social and cultural dimensions. A sociology of translation shifts the focus from texts to the translators, their roles, social networks, and lasting effects on society. In this paper, I review some recent discussions in translation studies, focusing specifically on the emergence of a sociology of translation. My purpose is to explore how we might reaffirm the competing social networks within which the Bible translator works and within which Bible translation is carried out. A sociology of translation, I argue, helps us become more aware of the central role of the translators as socially constructed and constructive agents, simultaneously producing texts and making meaning.
A Perception-Based Model of Complementary Afterimages
Authors: Manzotti Riccardo
Published: January 2017

Complementary afterimages are often modeled as illusory Hering opponent hues generated by the visual system as a result of adaptation. Yet, the empirical evidence suggests a different picture—Complementary afterimages are localized RGB filtered perception based on complementary color pairs. The article aims to bring to the fore an ongoing ambiguity about red/green afterimages and then to address all cases of complementary afterimages. A simple model of afterimages based both on empirical data and the available literature is reconsidered and discussed: The afterimage color A depends both on the color stimulus S and on the ensuing background color B as estimated by the relation, A = B – kS.
A Pilot Study of Occupational Injury and Illness Experienced by Classical Musicians
Authors: Raymond Delbert M. , Romeo June Hart , Kumke Karoline V.
Published: January 2017

Limited attention is paid to the hazards experienced by orchestra musicians in the occupational health and safety literature. Within that literature, the primary focus has been on noise exposure. A focus on this area is warranted because high sound pressure levels are a product of this work environment. However, in addition to being at risk for noise-induced hearing loss, workers are also at risk for musculoskeletal injury and illness related to stressful body postures held for prolonged work periods. The socio-political forces of employment may place workers at risk for mental health disorders (e.g., depression). The researchers distributed an anonymous survey to classical orchestra musicians in the southwestern United States. The survey inventoried several areas related to occupational health risks. Results suggest low health care-seeking behaviors relative to self-reported signs and symptoms of morbidity. Musicians also reported limited formal training and education regarding occupational health risks. Risk information was provided late in their professional development. This is a particular concern because of the young age at which music training is initiated.
Relationship between Handling Heavy Items during Pregnancy and Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Lee Bokim , Jung Hye-Sun
Published: January 2017

The researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey to determine the relationship between handling heavy items during pregnancy and spontaneous abortion among working women in South Korea. One thousand working women were selected from a database of those eligible for maternity benefits under the National Employment Insurance Plan. Study results showed that handling heavy items during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of spontaneous abortion after adjusting for general characteristics of the participants and their work environment. A collective effort is needed on the parts of employers, employees, occupational health nurses, and the government to protect working women from lifting heavy items while pregnant.
A Comprehensive Review of the Healthy People 2020 Occupational Safety and Health Objectives
Authors: Parks Carol I. , Chikotas Noreen E. , Olszewski Kimberly
Published: January 2017

This is the first part of a two-part series introducing Healthy People 2020 and the foundational categories that are linked to overarching goals and corresponding measures for progress within the Healthy People 2020 initiative. The two articles together will review the 10 objectives for occupational safety and health within the American workplace, provide a resource guide for occupational health nurses, and discuss MAP-IT, the suggested implementation format to reach the Healthy People 2020 goals. The articles are intended to inform occupational health nurses about the current agenda for safety and health of the U.S. work force as articulated in Healthy People 2020 and provide a foundation for better understanding the requirements of a safe work environment in 2020 and beyond.
Scientific Committee on Occupational Health Nursing
Authors: Randolph Susan A.
Published: January 2017

This article provides an overview of the Scientific Committee on Occupational Health Nursing (SCOHN), one of the scientific committees of the International Commission on Occupational Health, from its beginnings in 1966 to today. The purposes and priorities are described, along with lessons learned over the years.