bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extra-articular ACL Reconstruction and Pivot Shift
Authors: Monaco Edoardo , Maestri Barbara , Conteduca Fabio , Mazza Daniele , Iorio Carlo , Ferretti Andrea
Published: May 2014

Background:

The pivot-shift test is considered a reliable examination to evaluate the results of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, as it strongly correlates with patient satisfaction, giving-way episodes, and activity level. The addition of lateral tenodesis (LT) to current techniques of intra-articular reconstruction with a hamstring graft could potentially improve knee laxity in cases of severe rotational instability.

Purpose:

To biomechanically investigate the effect of intra- and extra-articular ACL reconstructions on knee laxity and the pivot-shift phenomenon.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Twenty patients underwent anatomic single-bundle ACL reconstruction with doubled semitendinosus and gracilis tendons with the addition of extra-articular reconstruction. In patients in group A, intra-articular reconstruction was performed first and LT thereafter; in patients in group B, LT was performed first and intra-articular reconstruction thereafter. A navigator equipped with software designed for both static and dynamic evaluations was used to measure maximum anterior tibial translation (ATT) and axial tibial rotation (ATR) at 30° of flexion (static evaluation) and during the pivot-shift test (dynamic evaluation). Measurements were performed before reconstruction, after the first procedure, and after the second procedure.

Results:

For the static evaluation, in group A, the mean ATT significantly decreased from 14.1 ± 3.7 mm in the preoperative (ACL-deficient) condition to 6.0 ± 1.9 mm after ACL reconstruction and to 5.3 ± 1.6 mm after LT. The mean ATR at 30° of knee flexion significantly decreased from 35.7° ± 4.8° to 28.9° ± 4.1° and to 20.9° ± 4.8°, respectively. In group B, the mean ATT significantly decreased from 13.5 ± 6.5 mm in the preoperative (ACL-deficient) condition to 10.2 ± 3.2 mm after LT and to 4.0 ± 1.6 mm after ACL reconstruction. The mean ATR at 30° of knee flexion significantly decreased from 36.7° ± 4.8° to 26.2° ± 6.2° and to 23.5° ± 4.9°, respectively. For the dynamic evaluation (pivot-shift test), in group A, the mean ATT significantly decreased from 15.0 ± 6.8 mm in the preoperative (ACL-deficient) condition to 9.4 ± 6.4 mm after ACL reconstruction and to 8.5 ± 5.4 mm after LT. The mean ATR significantly decreased from 16.9° ± 4.7° to 11.6° ± 4.1° and to 6.1° ± 2.2°, respectively. In group B, the mean ATT significantly decreased from 12.5 ± 3.3 mm in the preoperative (ACL-deficient) condition to 9.1 ± 5.9 mm after LT and to 8.1 ± 5.4 mm after ACL reconstruction. The mean ATR significantly decreased from 16.0° ± 4.5° to 9.2° ± 4.3° and to 7.5° ± 4.0°, respectively.

Conclusion/Clinical Relevance:

Extra-articular reconstruction had little effect in reducing the anterior displacement of the tibia at 30° of flexion, but it was more effective than intra-articular reconstruction in reducing ATR. Anatomic ACL reconstruction and LT were synergic in controlling the pivot-shift phenomenon.
Role of Virtual Reality for Cerebral Palsy Management
Authors: Weiss Patrice L. (Tamar) , Tirosh Emanuel , Fehlings Darcy
Published: May 2014

Virtual reality is the use of interactive simulations to present users with opportunities to perform in virtual environments that appear, sound, and less frequently, feel similar to real-world objects and events. Interactive computer play refers to the use of a game where a child interacts and plays with virtual objects in a computer-generated environment. Because of their distinctive attributes that provide ecologically realistic and motivating opportunities for active learning, these technologies have been used in pediatric rehabilitation over the past 15 years. The ability of virtual reality to create opportunities for active repetitive motor/sensory practice adds to their potential for neuroplasticity and learning in individuals with neurologic disorders. The objectives of this article is to provide an overview of how virtual reality and gaming are used clinically, to present the results of several example studies that demonstrate their use in research, and to briefly remark on future developments.
Eliciting rich dialogue through the use of activity-oriented interviews
Authors: Winstone Naomi , Huntington Corinne , Goldsack Lisa , Kyrou Elli , Millward Lynne
Published: May 2014

The ability of children and young people to form and express their perspectives through qualitative research studies can be constrained by difficulties that they can face in typical interview situations. This article describes and evaluates an interview method using concrete and engaging activities designed to enable autistic young people to voice their abilities and perspectives. Participants’ sense of self-identity was explored using traditional semi-structured interviews and novel activity-oriented interviews. The latter method provided a context within which autistic young people were better able to voice their perspectives. The efficacy of this method and considerations for its use are discussed.
Mothers’ Depressive Symptoms Predict Both Increased and Reduced Negative Reactivity
Authors: Dix Theodore , Moed Anat , Anderson Edward R.
Published: May 2014

This study examined whether, as mothers’ depressive symptoms increase, their expressions of negative emotion to children increasingly reflect aversion sensitivity and motivation to minimize ongoing stress or discomfort. In multiple interactions over 2 years, negative affect expressed by 319 mothers and their children was observed across variations in mothers’ depressive symptoms, the aversiveness of children’s immediate behavior, and observed differences in children’s general negative reactivity. As expected, depressive symptoms predicted reduced maternal negative reactivity when child behavior was low in aversiveness, particularly with children who were high in negative reactivity. Depressive symptoms predicted high negative reactivity and steep increases in negative reactivity as the aversiveness of child behavior increased, particularly when high and continued aversiveness from the child was expected (i.e., children were high in negative reactivity). The findings are consistent with the proposal that deficits in parenting competence as depressive symptoms increase reflect aversion sensitivity and motivation to avoid conflict and suppress children’s aversive behavior.
African American Cancer Survivors
Authors: Finney Jane M. , Hamilton Jill B. , Hodges Eric A. , Pierre-Louis Bosny J. , Crandell Jamie L. , Muss Hyman B.
Published: May 2014

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine how the cultural factors, stigma, being strong, and religiosity influence symptom distress in African American cancer survivors. Methods: This descriptive correlational study was designed using the Sociocultural Stress and Coping Framework. Seventy-seven African American cancer survivors, recruited from oncology clinics and the community in North Carolina, completed a questionnaire that consisted of measures of demographic and illness characteristics, the Perceived Stigma Scale, the Ways of Helping Questionnaire, the Religious Involvement Scale, and the Symptom Distress Scale. Results: The two cultural factors that were significantly associated with symptom distress were stigma (β = .23, p < .05) and organized religion (β = −.50, p < .05). No significant associations were found between being strong or nonorganized religiosity and symptom distress. The most commonly reported symptoms were fatigue ( M = 2.44, SD = 1.20), pain ( M = 2.26, SD = 1.43), and insomnia ( M = 1.95, SD = 1.25). Conclusions: The findings of this study indicate that the cultural factors, stigma, and organized religiosity were significantly associated with symptom distress. Implications for Practice: The results from this study can be used to guide researchers in developing culturally appropriate interventions aimed at alleviating symptom distress in African American cancer survivors.
A Systematic Review of Barriers and Facilitators to Mammography in Hispanic Women
Authors: Jerome-D’Emilia Bonnie
Published: May 2014

Purpose: A systematic review of the research on barriers and facilitators to mammography in Latinas was conducted to determine if the challenges faced by these women are unique to this population. Method: Medline and CINAHL database searches for the years 2005-2013 were included. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were used to guide this review. Results: Of the 174 articles identified, 18 articles met inclusion criteria. The most consistent findings were that income and education were associated with screening. Conclusions: Financial barriers and social characteristics were significant predictors of mammography in these studies, which were composed almost exclusively of low-income Latinas. These findings are similar to those found in other populations of low-income women and therefore are not likely unique to Latinas. Implications for Practice: It is likely that there is little difference between poor Latinas and other populations of poor, non-English-speaking women in barriers and facilitators to mammography.
Comparison of Infant Vitamin D Supplement Use Among Canadian-Born, Immigrant, and Refugee Mothers
Authors: Moffat Tina , Sellen Daniel , Wilson Warren , Anderson Laura , Chadwick Sarah , Amarra Sofia
Published: May 2014

Purpose:This study compares knowledge and practice of infant vitamin D supplementation among immigrant, refugee, and Canadian-born mothers. Method: Focus group discussions with 94 mothers of children aged 0 to 3 years recruited from early childhood centers and a refugee health clinic. Findings: Both immigrant and Canadian-born mothers indicated good knowledge and use of infant vitamin D supplementation. In contrast, Canadian government-assisted refugees were less likely to supplement with vitamin D. The main source of information about vitamin D was public health prenatal classes. Many mothers reported inconsistent guidance from health care providers. Discussion and Conclusions: Exclusively breastfed infants of refugees may be more at risk of vitamin D deficiency. All mothers require clear recommendations, both in clinical and public health settings. Implications for Practice: Mothers, both new Canadian and Canadian-born, require clear and consistent messaging from health professionals. Refugee mothers, however, require more educational support to promote infant vitamin D supplementation.
Rivaroxaban for the Long-term Treatment of Spontaneous Ovarian Vein Thrombosis Caused by Factor V Leiden Homozygosity
Authors: Cook Rhett M. , Rondina Matthew T. , Horton Devin J.
Published: May 2014

Objective: To report a case where rivaroxaban was used in the management of an ovarian vein thrombosis and to briefly review the literature, pathophysiology, and clinical implications therein. Case Summary: A 30-year-old previously healthy woman was diagnosed with acute, spontaneous, left-ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) with proximal extension into the renal vein. After initial catheter-directed thrombolysis with tPA, angioplasty of the left renal vein, and heparinoid treatment, rivaroxaban was begun for long-term anticoagulation. Three months after her index event she was symptom free, with complete resolution of her thrombosis and no adverse effects or bleeding complications from rivaroxaban. To our knowledge, this is the first report of OVT successfully treated with rivaroxaban. Discussion: OVT is a rare but potentially fatal cause of abdominal pain that may pose diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. Factor V Leiden (FVL) homozygosity, an uncommon but severe inherited thrombophilia, increases the risk of thrombosis by approximately 50- to 80-fold. This case report and accompanying literature review highlight important clinical pearls related to the diagnosis and management of OVT and inherited thrombophilias. Conclusions: This clinical vignette adds to the published literature suggesting that novel oral anticoagulants, such as rivaroxaban, may eventually emerge as an alternative to vitamin K antagonists for the treatment of extra-axial thromboses. Reporting these cases is important because their prevalence is low outside of specialized referral centers, and thus, dissemination of these experiences may help other providers in treating their patients.
Assessment of Silent Neuronal Injury Following Coronary Angiography and Intervention in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Aykan Ahmet Çağrı , Gökdeniz Tayyar , Bektaş Hüseyin , Boyacı Faruk , Gül İlker , Hatem Engin , Kalaycıoğlu Ezgi , Turan Turhan , Çevirme Deniz , Çelik Şükrü
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence and predictors of silent neuronal injury (SNI) after coronary angiography (CAG) and intervention by serial measurement of serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) in patients presented with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Ninety-eight consecutive patients presented with ACS and underwent CAG and intervention were included in the study. The NSE levels significantly increased after CAG and intervention compared to baseline levels (22.03 ± 27.70 and 10.08 ± 3.15 consecutively). Left ventricular ejection fraction in the SNI+ group was significantly lower than that in the SNI− group (43.71% ± 12.51%, 50.84% ± 9.34%, P = .002). Maximal creatinine kinase myocardial band, troponin I, and SYNTAX score of the SNI+ group were significantly higher than those of the SNI− group (103.83 ± 99.22, 51.92 ± 78.33, P = .006; 50.04 ± 66.18, 19.18 ± 30.50, P = .002; 103.83 ± 99.22, 51.92 ± 78.33, P = .006; and 50.04 ± 66.18, 19.18 ± 30.50, P = .002 successively). SYNTAX score and performing percutaneous coronary intervention were the independent predictors of SNI ( P = .009, odds ratio [OR] = 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.014-1.107, P = .036, OR = 4.262, 95% CI = 1.097-16.56). Percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery lesion complexity may increase the risk of SNI in patients with ACS.
Review of methods and approaches for mechanical problem solutions based on fractional calculus
Authors: Zhuravkov Michael A , Romanova Natalie S
Published: May 2014

This report looks at the published literary sources on methods and approaches, which are based on fractional calculus (that is, calculus of integrals and derivatives of any arbitrary real or complex order) to solve the continuous and discrete mechanics problems. The problems solutions and comparative analysis results of fractional and classical models are presented. The report’s goal is to show an efficiency of using fractional calculus to describe the mechanical processes.
Self-Awareness of Executive Functioning Deficits in Adolescents With ADHD
Authors: Steward Kayla A. , Tan Alexander , Delgaty Lauren , Gonzales Mitzi M. , Bunner Melissa
Published: May 2014

Objective: Children with ADHD lack self-awareness of their social and academic deficits, frequently rating themselves more favorably than external sources. The purpose of the current study was to assess whether adolescents with ADHD also hold a positive bias toward their executive functioning (EF). Method: Participants include 22 control and 35 ADHD subjects, aged 11 to 16. Participants and their parents completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning (BRIEF) Self and Parent forms, respectively. Discrepancy scores were calculated for each domain by subtracting the adolescents’ T-score from the parents’ T-score. Results: Discrepancy scores were significantly higher in the ADHD group than controls within the Inhibit, Shift, Monitor, Emotional Control, Working Memory, and Plan/Organization domains (all p < .05). Conclusion: As compared with controls, adolescents with ADHD tend to endorse fewer EF difficulties than what parents report. This is the first study to demonstrate that those with ADHD may overestimate their EF ability.
Examining Household Asthma Management Behavior Through a Microeconomic Framework
Authors: Magzamen Sheryl , Brandt Sylvia J. , Tager Ira B.
Published: May 2014

National guidelines on the effective management of pediatric asthma have been promoted for over 20 years, yet asthma-related morbidity among low-income children remains disproportionately high. To date, household and clinical interventions designed to remediate these differences have been informed largely by a health behavior framework. However, these programs have not resulted in consistent sustained improvements in targeted populations. The continued funding and implementation of programs based on the health behavior framework leads us to question if traditional behavioral models are sufficient to understand and promote adaptation of positive health management behaviors. We introduce the application of the microeconomic framework to investigate potential mechanisms that can lead to positive management behaviors to improve asthma-related morbidity. We provide examples from the literature on health production, preferences, trade-offs and time horizons to illustrate how economic constructs can potentially add to understanding of disease management. The economic framework, which can be empirically observed, tested, and quantified, can explicate the engagement in household-level activities that would affect health and well-being. The inclusion of a microeconomic perspective in intervention research may lead to identification of mechanisms that lead to household decisions with regard to asthma management strategies and behavior. The inclusion of the microeconomic framework to understand the production of health may provide a novel theoretical framework to investigate the underlying causal behavioral mechanisms related to asthma management and control. Adaptation of an economic perspective may provide new insight into the design and implementation of interventions to improve asthma-related morbidity in susceptible populations.
The Neuroscience of Intergroup Relations
Authors: Cikara Mina , Van Bavel Jay J.
Published: May 2014

We review emerging research on the psychological and biological factors that underlie social group formation, cooperation, and conflict in humans. Our aim is to integrate the intergroup neuroscience literature with classic theories of group processes and intergroup relations in an effort to move beyond merely describing the effects of specific social out-groups on the brain and behavior. Instead, we emphasize the underlying psychological processes that govern intergroup interactions more generally: forming and updating our representations of “us” and “them” via social identification and functional relations between groups. This approach highlights the dynamic nature of social identity and the context-dependent nature of intergroup relations. We argue that this theoretical integration can help reconcile seemingly discrepant findings in the literature, provide organizational principles for understanding the core elements of intergroup dynamics, and highlight several exciting directions for future research at the interface of intergroup relations and neuroscience.
Let’s Put Our Money Where Our Mouth Is
Authors: Maner Jon K.
Published: May 2014

A number of scholars recently have argued for fundamental changes in the way psychological scientists conduct and report research. The behavior of researchers is influenced partially by incentive structures built into the manuscript evaluation system, and change in researcher practices will necessitate a change in the way journal reviewers evaluate manuscripts. This article outlines specific recommendations for reviewers that are designed to facilitate open data reporting and to encourage researchers to disseminate the most generative and replicable studies. These recommendations include changing the way reviewers respond to imperfections in empirical data, focusing less on individual tests of statistical significance and more on meta-analyses, being more open to null findings and failures to replicate previous research, and attending carefully to the theoretical contribution of a manuscript in addition to its methodological rigor. The article also calls for greater training and guidance for reviewers so that they can evaluate research in a manner that encourages open reporting and ultimately strengthens our science.
Expectations for Replications
Authors: Stanley David J. , Spence Jeffrey R.
Published: May 2014

Failures to replicate published psychological research findings have contributed to a “crisis of confidence.” Several reasons for these failures have been proposed, the most notable being questionable research practices and data fraud. We examine replication from a different perspective and illustrate that current intuitive expectations for replication are unreasonable. We used computer simulations to create thousands of ideal replications, with the same participants, wherein the only difference across replications was random measurement error. In the first set of simulations, study results differed substantially across replications as a result of measurement error alone. This raises questions about how researchers should interpret failed replication attempts, given the large impact that even modest amounts of measurement error can have on observed associations. In the second set of simulations, we illustrated the difficulties that researchers face when trying to interpret and replicate a published finding. We also assessed the relative importance of both sampling error and measurement error in producing variability in replications. Conventionally, replication attempts are viewed through the lens of verifying or falsifying published findings. We suggest that this is a flawed perspective and that researchers should adjust their expectations concerning replications and shift to a meta-analytic mind-set.
Continuously Cumulating Meta-Analysis and Replicability
Authors: Braver Sanford L. , Thoemmes Felix J. , Rosenthal Robert
Published: May 2014

The current crisis in scientific psychology about whether our findings are irreproducible was presaged years ago by Tversky and Kahneman (1971), who noted that even sophisticated researchers believe in the fallacious Law of Small Numbers—erroneous intuitions about how imprecisely sample data reflect population phenomena. Combined with the low power of most current work, this often leads to the use of misleading criteria about whether an effect has replicated. Rosenthal (1990) suggested more appropriate criteria, here labeled the continuously cumulating meta-analytic (CCMA) approach. For example, a CCMA analysis on a replication attempt that does not reach significance might nonetheless provide more, not less, evidence that the effect is real. Alternatively, measures of heterogeneity might show that two studies that differ in whether they are significant might have only trivially different effect sizes. We present a nontechnical introduction to the CCMA framework (referencing relevant software), and then explain how it can be used to address aspects of replicability or more generally to assess quantitative evidence from numerous studies. We then present some examples and simulation results using the CCMA approach that show how the combination of evidence can yield improved results over the consideration of single studies.
Randomized, controlled pilot study comparing large-volume paracentesis using wall suction and traditional glass vacuum bottle methods
Authors: Konerman Monica A. , Price Jennifer , Torres Dawn , Li Zhiping
Published: May 2014

Objectives:

Large-volume paracentesis (LVP) can be time and labor intensive depending on the amount of ascites removed and the method of drainage. Wall suction has been adopted as the preferred method of drainage at many centers, though the safety and benefits of this technique have not been formally evaluated. The primary objective of this study was to define the cost and time savings of wall suction over the traditional glass vacuum bottle method for ascites drainage. The secondary objective was to compare the safety profile and patient satisfaction using these two techniques.

Methods:

We conducted a randomized, controlled pilot study of the wall suction versus vacuum bottle methods for LVP in hospitalized patients. All LVPs were performed under ultrasound guidance by a single proceduralist. Patients with at least 4 liters removed received 25% intravenous albumin, 8 g/liter fluid removed. Demographic, clinical characteristics, and procedure details were recorded. Laboratory and hemodynamic data were recorded for 24 h prior to and 24–48 h post LVP. An electronic chart review was conducted to evaluate procedure-related complications. Data were compared using Fisher’s exact test, t test, or Mann–Whitney U test.

Results:

Thirty-four patients were randomized to wall suction at 200 mmHg ( n = 17) or glass vacuum bottle drainage ( n = 17). Wall suction was significantly faster and less costly than vacuum bottle drainage (7 versus 15 min, p = 0.002; $4.59 versus $12.73, p < 0.001). There were no differences in outcomes at 24 and 48 h post LVP, or at 60-day follow up.

Conclusion:

Performing LVP using wall suction resulted in significantly shorter procedure time and supply cost savings. There were no differences in outcomes between the groups, suggesting equivalent safety, though larger studies powered to detect small differences are needed. Given its efficiency, convenience, and cost effectiveness, wall suction may be a superior method of ascites drainage for LVP.
An Age of Stagnation?
Authors: Aguilar-Millan Stephen , Swanson Jason , Burgess-MacIntosh Kate , Schlehuber Laura
Published: May 2014

Much of the policy focus since the onset of the Great Recession in 2008 has been based upon a return of the global economy to “business-as-usual.” It is assumed that it is both possible and desirable to return to the pre-recession trajectory of the global economy, despite such a growth path leading to an imbalanced global economy that was neither sustainable from an environmental perspective nor equitable from the perspective of supporting a fair society. Policy makers have failed in this objective. It may be that governments have simply been unsuccessful. It is also possible that the structural components of the global economy have changed in such a way that a return to the pre-recession growth path is not possible. This article is an investigation into this possibility. It will consider three elements—debt, technology, and demography—that argue that we have entered a sustained period of sluggish economic growth by asking three core questions: (1) Will the rebalancing of the global economy undermine the ability of economies to restore prosperity? (2) Have the long-term trends in innovation reached a moment of pause, to delay future growth prospects? (3) Are the demographic trends facing the world likely to act as a brake upon future economic growth? We then ask the question of whether or not this is entirely undesirable before taking the view that it provides a good opportunity to switch into a low carbon, low-growth economy if the fundamental issues of inequality and fairness can be addressed. If we are to have a prolonged period of subdued prosperity, then that affords us an opportunity to devise a structure that is both kind to the planet and equitable to its inhabitants. To misquote Churchill, it would be a shame to let a perfectly good recession go to waste.
Online Mental Disability Law Education, a Disability Rights Tribunal and the Creation of an Asian Disability Law Database: Their Impact on Research, Training and Teaching of Law, Criminology and Criminal Justice in Asia
Authors: Perlin Michael L. , Cucolo Heather , Esq Yoshikazu Ikehara
Published: May 2014

Two professors at New York Law School (NYLS) and the director of the Tokyo Advocacy Law Office are engaged in initiatives with the potential to have major influences on the study of law, criminology and criminal justice: the creation of a Disability Rights Tribunal for Asia and the Pacific (DRTAP) and expansion of NYLS’s online mental disability law programme (OMDLP) to include numerous Asian venues.

DRTAP seeks to create a sub-regional body (a Commission and eventually a Court) to hear violations of the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This will explicitly inspire scholarship about issues such as treatment of forensic patients, relationships between mental disability enforcement and criminal law enforcement, and connections between mental disability and criminal procedure.

NYLS’s OMDLP offers thirteen valuable courses to criminologists and criminal justice scholars and will host DRICAP (Disability Rights Information Center for Asia and the Pacific), providing Internet access to important disability rights developments from ten nations in the Asia/Pacific region. This partnership offers unrivalled knowledge in criminal justice and mental disability law.

Our article will detail and explain how these programmes train, teach and foster new research, distinctively benefiting Asia’s legal/advocacy/criminology/criminal justice communities.
Pedagogy in Translation: Teaching Animal Law in China
Authors: Kerr Andrew Jensen
Published: May 2014

This essay reflects on the didactic process of teaching a course on Animal Law in Mainland China and surveys the opportunity for Chinese and other Asian legal students and scholars to contribute to this emerging academic field. The author first clarifies his pedagogical ambitions in crafting a curriculum centred on a comparative approach to animal law. He notes the variable successes of his teaching strategies, offering techniques to better contextualize this at times foreign material for international students. The author then considers the unique ‘structural’ characteristics of animal law that make it an empowering vehicle in legal education, such as its signature ability to connect trans-legal theoretical frameworks to new, unanswered questions and its inherent practical connection to the individual’s development as an actualized citizen. In the final section of his essay, the author highlights areas of substantive animal law that could benefit from revision by non-Western thinkers. Areas particularly rich in content include cultural patterns in the discourse and rhetoric of animal law, definitional problems pre-conditional to animal legal theory and issues in transnational animal law. This essay functions at the intersection of international education, legal pedagogy and animal law but also considers trans-legal issues of wider import.
Fostering Civic Engagement in Legal Education: Observations from Hong Kong
Authors: Marsh Luke , Ramsden Michael
Published: May 2014

In 2001 the Redmond–Roper Report on Legal Education and Training in Hong Kong outlined major concerns relating to the quality of legal education in Hong Kong, particularly with respect to the overemphasis on black-letter law, teaching methodology that engendered passive learning and a general deficiency in equipping graduates with the legal skills and values necessary to address the needs of the community. Taking the position that fostering civic engagement in curriculum design provides an excellent means to address these concerns, this article examines key initiatives adopted by the Faculty of Law at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. First is an innovative course known as ‘The Individual, the Community and the Law’ which is compulsory for all law students and requires them to undertake a substantial socio-legal research project addressing concerns in the local community. Second is the ‘Refugee Assistance Programme’, a clinic programme that puts students in positions of responsibility to address the unmet legal needs of refugees in Hong Kong. This article will describe the design of these programmes and assess how far these initiatives are able to foster civic engagement and in turn address the concerns of Redmond–Roper.
Valproic acid in combination with all-trans retinoic acid and intensive therapy for acute myeloid leukemia in older patients
Authors: Tassara Michela , Döhner Konstanze , Brossart Peter , Held Gerhard , Götze Katharina , Horst Heinz-A. , Ringhoffer Mark , Köhne Claus-Henning , Kremers Stephan , Raghavachar Aruna , Wulf Gerald , Kirchen Heinz , Nachbaur David , Derigs Hans Günter , Wattad Mohammed , Koller Elisabeth , Brugger Wolfram , Matzdorff Axel , Greil Richard , Heil Gerhard , Paschka Peter , Gaidzik Verena I. , Göttlicher Martin , Döhner Hartmut , Schlenk Richard F.
Published: May 2014

Key Points

The addition of valproic acid to intensive induction therapy in combination with all-trans retinoic acid did not result in an improvement of clinical outcome. Valproic acid-related hematologic toxicity and higher death rates were observed when valproic acid and idarubicin were given in parallel.
Eltrombopag and high-dose dexamethasone as frontline treatment of newly diagnosed immune thrombocytopenia in adults
Authors: Gómez-Almaguer David , Herrera-Rojas Miguel A. , Jaime-Pérez José C. , Gómez-De León Andrés , Cantú-Rodríguez Olga G. , Gutiérrez-Aguirre César H. , Tarín-Arzaga Luz , Hernández-Reyes Jesús , Ruiz-Arguelles Guillermo J.
Published: May 2014

Key Points

Eltrombopag/dexamethasone is a safe and effective combination for treating newly diagnosed ITP patients. This treatment may prove useful in achieving lasting responses without additional immunosuppression in some patients.
Pretransplant comorbidities predict severity of acute graft-versus-host disease and subsequent mortality
Authors: Sorror Mohamed L. , Martin Paul J. , Storb Rainer F. , Bhatia Smita , Maziarz Richard T. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Maris Michael B. , Davis Christopher , Deeg H. Joachim , Lee Stephanie J. , Maloney David G. , Sandmaier Brenda M. , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Gooley Theodore A.
Published: May 2014

Key Points

The HCT-CI stratifies patients into 3 groups for risks of grades 3 to 4 GVHD regardless of conditioning intensity, donor, or graft types. Comorbidity burden and development of grades 2 to 4 acute GVHD have cumulative effects on mortality rates.
Development of a comprehensive prognostic index for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Pflug Natali , Bahlo Jasmin , Shanafelt Tait D. , Eichhorst Barbara F. , Bergmann Manuela A. , Elter Thomas , Bauer Kathrin , Malchau Gebhart , Rabe Kari G. , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Döhner Hartmut , Jäger Ulrich , Eckart Michael J. , Hopfinger Georg , Busch Raymonde , Fink Anna-Maria , Wendtner Clemens-Martin , Fischer Kirsten , Kay Neil E. , Hallek Michael
Published: May 2014

Key Points

Prognostic tool for CLL patients with high discriminatory power compared with conventional clinical staging systems. Prognostication on the individual patient level independent of clinical stage.
Epidemiology, species distribution and outcome of nosocomial Candida spp.bloodstream infection in Shanghai
Authors: Yang Zhi-Tao , Wu Lin , Liu Xiao-Ying , Zhou Min , Li Jie , Wu Jia-Yin , Cai Yong , Mao En-Qiang , Chen Er-Zhen , Lortholary Olivier
Published: May 2014

Background

Yeasts, mostly Candida, are important causes of bloodstream infections (BSI), responsible for significant mortality and morbidity among hospitalized patients. The epidemiology and species distribution vary from different regions. The goals of this study were to report the current epidemiology of Candida BSI in a Shanghai Teaching Hospital and estimate the impact of appropriate antifungal therapy on the outcome.

Methods

From January 2008 to December 2012, all consecutive patients who developed Candida BSI at Ruijin University Hospital were enrolled. Underlying diseases, clinical severity, species distribution, antifungal therapy and its impact on the outcome were analyzed.

Results

A total of 121 episodes of Candida BSI were identified, with an incidence of 0.32 episodes/1,000 admissions (0.21 in 2008 and 0.42 in 2012) The proportion of candidemia caused by non-albicans species (62.8%), including C. parapsilosis (19.8%), C. tropicalis (14.9%), C. glabrata (7.4%), C. guilliermondii (5.8%), C. sake (5.0%) was higher than that of candidemia caused by C. albicans (37.2%). The overall crude 28-day mortality was 28.1% and significantly reduced with appropriate empiric antifungal therapy administered within 5 days (P = 0.006). Advanced age (OR 1.04; P = 0.014), neutropenia < 500/mm3 (OR 17.44; P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for 28-day mortality, while appropriate empiric antifungal therapy (OR 0.369; P = 0.035) was protective against 28-day mortality.

Conclusion

The epidemiology of candidemia in Shanghai differed from that observed in Western countries. Appropriate empiric antifungal therapy influenced the short-term survival.
Clinical and optic coherence tomography findings of focal choroidal excavation in Chinese patients
Authors: Guo Jie , Zhong Lu , Jiang Chunhui , Zhou Xin , Xu Gezhi , Wang Wenji , Wang Yuliang
Published: May 2014

Background

To describe the clinical and optical coherence tomography (OCT) features of focal choroidal excavation in Chinese patients.

Methods

Retrospectively, thirty-seven eyes (in 31 patients) that demonstrated focal choroidal excavation on spectral-domain OCT were collected. Their clinical characteristics and other features were also collected and analyzed.

Results

In total, 42 focal choroidal excavations were identified in 31 patients, including 25 unilateral and 6 bilateral (37 eyes). The abnormal changes in these eyes with choroidal excavation were more prominent at the outer part of the neuro-retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the choroid. The average transverse diameter and depth of the excavations were 670.8 μm and 106.9 μm, respectively. In addition to the conforming and nonconforming types, the excavations could also be classified into 2 types according to their shape: type 1 – small with a sharp, cut-down contour; and type 2 – slightly larger with a gradual edge. The transverse diameter/depth ratio of the two types were significantly different (type1: 4.57 ± 1.65, type 2: 10.0 ± 5.2; p = 0.000). Four central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) cases were confirmed by fluorescein angiography; in these cases, the retinal detachment was larger than the area of excavation, and the inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) and external limiting membrane (ELM) were above those of the normal part. Concomitant CNV was also found in another 2 cases.

Conclusions

Focal choroidal excavation was not uncommon in Chinese patients. The choroid and the RPE at the excavation were impaired or vulnerable to other damage. Additionally, OCT might be useful in the differentiation between nonconforming excavations and ones with CSCR.
Existence of an unbounded branch of the set of solutions for Neumann problems involving the "Equation missing" -Laplacian
Authors: Hwang Byung-Hoon , Lee Seung Dae , Kim Yun-Ho
Published: May 2014

We are concerned with the following nonlinear problem:

−
div
(
w
(
x
)

|
∇
u
|

p
(
x
)
−
2

∇
u
)
+

|
u
|

p
(
x
)
−
2

u
=
μ
g
(
x
)

|
u
|

p
(
x
)
−
2

u
+
f
(
λ
,
x
,
u
,
∇
u
)

in Ω,

∂
u

∂
n

=
0

on ∂ Ω, which is subject to a Neumann boundary condition, provided that μ is not an eigenvalue of the

p
(
x
)

-Laplacian. The aim of this paper is to study the structure of the set of solutions for the degenerate

p
(
x
)

-Laplacian Neumann problems by applying a bifurcation result for nonlinear operator equations.

MSC:35B32, 35D30, 35J70, 47J10, 47J15.
The histamine H4 receptor is a potent inhibitor of adhesion-dependent degranulation in human neutrophils
Authors: Dib Karim , Perecko Tomas , Jenei Veronika , McFarlane Cheryl , Comer David , Brown Vanessa , Katebe Mwape , Scheithauer Torsten , Thurmond Robin L , Chazot Paul L , Ennis Madeleine
Published: May 2014

The histamine H4 receptor regulates the inflammatory response. However, it is not known whether this receptor has a functional role in human neutrophils. We found that fMLP (1 μM), but not histamine (0.1–1 μM), induced Mac-1-dependent adhesion, polarization, and degranulation (release of lactoferrin). A pretreatment of neutrophils with histamine (0.001–1 μM) or JNJ 28610244 (0.1–10 μM), a specific H4 receptor agonist, led to inhibition of degranulation. Total inhibition of degranulation was obtained with 0.1 μM histamine and 10 μM JNJ 28610244. Furthermore, such inhibition by histamine of degranulation was reversed by JNJ 7777120 and JNJ 28307474, two selective H4 receptor antagonists. However, neither histamine nor the H4 receptor agonist JNJ 28610244 prevented fMLP-induced, Mac-1-dependent adhesion, indicating that the H4 receptor may block signals emanating from Mac-1-controlling degranulation. Likewise, engagement of the H4 receptor by the selective agonist JNJ 28610244 blocked Mac-1-dependent activation of p38 MAPK, the kinase that controls neutrophil degranulation. We also show expression of the H4 receptor at the mRNA level in ultrapure human neutrophils and myeloid leukemia PLB-985 cells. We concluded that engagement of this receptor by selective H4 receptor agonists may represent a good, therapeutic approach to accelerate resolution of inflammation.
Drug analog inhibition of indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) activity modifies pattern recognition receptor expression and proinflammatory cytokine responses early during influenza virus infection
Authors: Fox Julie M , Sage Leo K , Poore Spencer , Johnson Scott , Tompkins S Mark , Tripp Ralph A
Published: May 2014

Influenza virus is recognized by PRRs, which are critical in the early response to virus infection and induction of proinflammatory cytokines. IDO is increased in the lung of mice immediately following influenza infection, and the presence of IDO has been shown to mediate immune suppression through depletion of trp and reduction in IL-6 production. To determine the role of IDO activity in the early immune response to influenza infection, IDO activity was inhibited using the synthetic analog, 1MT. The results show that IDO inhibition enhanced proinflammatory cytokine gene and protein expression at 24 and 48 h postinfection, respectively, compared with control-treated mice and affected PRR expression. The enhanced proinflammatory response in the presence of 1MT was attributed to macrophages in the airways, as Raw264.7 and primary AMs showed enhanced production of IFN-β, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in the presence of 1MT. These findings provide important knowledge for the role of IDO during initial host response to influenza infection.
Seismic attributes add a new dimension to prospect evaluation and geomorphology offshore Malaysia
Authors: Ghosh Deva , Sajid M. , Ibrahim Nor Azhar , Viratno Bernato
Published: May 2014

The Malay Basin is a mature Tertiary extensional basin with a later inversion regime in the Late Miocene. The general geology is simple “layer cake” seismically, with some compressive anticlinal inversion structures. The Borneo Basin, on the other hand, is tectonically complex, with steep dips, overthrust, and complex faulting. The rocks are unconsolidated, and geophysical techniques such as amplitude and other attributes should work well. In early years, seismic interpretation was based mostly on mapping structures. The advent of AVO and inversion technologies and pioneering geophysical work brought about increased usage of seismic attributes, solving various problems of geologic interpretation. In Southeast Asia, concentrated efforts since 2000 in seismic data acquisition and processing have resulted in significant improvement in data quality and hence success of attribute application. Seismic imaging and attributes meet challenges such as (1) inversion structural plays in the Malay Basin, (2) stratigraphic channels, (3) fractured basement, (4) deep high-pressure (HP) and high-temperature (HT) plays, (5) steep-dip/overthrust plays, (6) deepwater turbidite plays, (7) carbonate plays of Luconia Province, and (8) thin pay beds, often below seismic resolution, using spectral attributes. Various attributes can be applied to a widespread problem in prospect-maturation evaluation and reservoir characterization.
Student Zone
Authors: Yoder Johnna
Published: May 2014

Annual Activity Reports, the fundamental component of the Student Chapter Excellence Program (SCEP) and the $5,000 Best Student Chapter Award launched in 2012, are an annual celebration of achievement for SEG Student Chapters. To gain an in-depth understanding of how to write an effective Annual Activity Report, the University and Student Programs (USP) Department interviewed representatives from the three finalist Chapters: Tymon Skrzynik, president, AGH University of Science and Technology, Poland; Florian Motz, president, Student Geoscientific Society Berlin and Potsdam, Germany; and Adriana Sirbu, president, University of Bucharest Geophysical Society, Romania. Although there can be only one official winner, all three of the 2013 finalists successfully used the Activity Report to highlight their Chapter's most important accomplishments and commitment to the growth of the geosciences industry.
Sections/Associated Societies Focus
Authors: Pellerin Louise
Published: May 2014

The Bay Area Geophysical Society (BAGS) is both old and new. It has a new set of officers, an updated logo, a new Web site, and new events and ideas to serve the local San Francisco community. Chevron — and particularly Joe Stefani and Peeter Akerberg, who diligently served as president and secretary/treasurer, respectively, for the last 10 or so years — deserve acknowledgment and much appreciation for keeping BAGS going during these years.
Memorials
Authors: Matthews Phil , Ludwig Chris
Published: May 2014

Walter (Walt) Heinrichs.
Active Idiotypic Vaccination Versus Control Immunotherapy for Follicular Lymphoma
Authors: Levy Ronald , Ganjoo Kristen N. , Leonard John P. , Vose Julie M. , Flinn Ian W. , Ambinder Richard F. , Connors Joseph M. , Berinstein Neil L. , Belch Andrew R. , Bartlett Nancy L. , Nichols Craig , Emmanouilides Christos E. , Timmerman John M. , Gregory Stephanie A. , Link Brian K. , Inwards David J. , Freedman Arnold S. , Matous Jeffrey V. , Robertson Michael J. , Kunkel Lori A. , Ingolia Diane E. , Gentles Andrew J. , Liu Chih Long , Tibshirani Robert , Alizadeh Ash A. , Denney Dan W.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

Idiotypes (Ids), the unique portions of tumor immunoglobulins, can serve as targets for passive and active immunotherapies for lymphoma. We performed a multicenter, randomized trial comparing a specific vaccine (MyVax), comprising Id chemically coupled to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) plus granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) to a control immunotherapy with KLH plus GM-CSF.

Patients and Methods

Patients with previously untreated advanced-stage follicular lymphoma (FL) received eight cycles of chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone. Those achieving sustained partial or complete remission (n = 287 [44%]) were randomly assigned at a ratio of 2:1 to receive one injection per month for 7 months of MyVax or control immunotherapy. Anti-Id antibody responses (humoral immune responses [IRs]) were measured before each immunization. The primary end point was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary end points included IR and time to subsequent antilymphoma therapy.

Results

At a median follow-up of 58 months, no significant difference was observed in either PFS or time to next therapy between the two arms. In the MyVax group (n = 195), anti-Id IRs were observed in 41% of patients, with a median PFS of 40 months, significantly exceeding the median PFS observed in patients without such Id-induced IRs and in those receiving control immunotherapy.

Conclusion

This trial failed to demonstrate clinical benefit of specific immunotherapy. The subset of vaccinated patients mounting specific anti-Id responses had superior outcomes. Whether this reflects a therapeutic benefit or is a marker for more favorable underlying prognosis requires further study.