bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peer-Assisted Learning via Face-to-Face or A-Synchronic Learning Network Embedded With or Without Metacognitive Guidance: Effects on Higher and Lower Achieving Students
Authors: Mevarech Zemira R. , Zion Michal , Michalsky Tova
Published: July 2011

The authors describe part of a larger study examining the conditions under which peer-assisted learning implemented in A-synchronic Learning Network (ALN) or Face-to-Face (F2F) supports learning. The present study focuses on the differential effects of these environments, on scientific inquiry skills of higher and lower achieving students. Participants were 407 tenth grade Israeli students who studied biology in 16 classrooms. Within each of the five participating schools, intact classrooms were randomly assigned into one of four conditions: ALN with metacognitive guidance (ALN+META), ALN with no meta-cognitive guidance (ALN), F2F with metacognitive guidance (F2F+META) and F2F with no metacognitive guidance (F2F). The findings indicate that, although under all conditions students improved their achievement on both the domain-specific inquiry skills examination and on the test of general scientific ability, significant differences between conditions were observed for lower achievers, but not for higher achievers. Lower achievers in the ALN+META condition scored significantly higher then their counterparts in the ALN or F2F+META conditions, who in turn scored significantly higher then the F2F students. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Bridging the Gap Between Diagnostic Assessment and Classroom Practice
Authors: Bosma Tirza , M. Resing Wilma C.
Published: July 2011

This study was designed to investigate teachers’ opinions of and responses to reports and recommendations based on dynamic assessment or traditional assessment as part of a psychodiagnostic procedure. One hundred six typical first grade elementary school children participated, as well as their 18 teachers, distributed over an experimental, semi-control and control condition. Children were administered either a dynamic test (Learning Potential Test for Inductive Reasoning) or a static test (Raven’s Progressive Matrices). Teachers were observed and interviewed and asked to estimate the learning potential for each child, prior to assessment as well as after recommendations, to assess possible changes and determine their responses to the provided reports and recommendations. Results showed teachers’ appreciation for specific contents of the dynamic assessment reports (e.g., learning potential, need for and type of instruction). Teachers rated most recommendations as applicable and even changed some aspects of their teaching practices in response to recommendations; suggesting that dynamic assessment provides the tools to link assessment to teaching practice.
Cognitive Mediation and Emotional Support of Fathers and Mothers to Their Children During Shared Book-Reading in Two Different SES Groups
Authors: Korat Ofra , Ron Ruth , Klein Pnina
Published: July 2011

This study was designed to investigate the cognitive and emotional nature of the book-reading mediation of fathers and mothers to their preschool children. Thirty-nine families (each including a mother, a father, and their kindergarten child) participated in this study: 19 of low SES (LSES) and 20 of middle SES (MSES). The mothers’ and fathers’ interactions while reading an unfamiliar book were videotaped and their verbal expressions were coded for extracting the parental mediation level. The results demonstrated that mothers encouraged their children and discussed topics not related to the story more than fathers. Fathers used higher cognitive levels of mediation than mothers mainly by discussing issues that are beyond the text, whereas mothers also used paraphrasing mediation. Similarly, MSES parents presented a higher level of cognitive mediation than LSES parents, mediating issues beyond the text, whereas LSES parents also used paraphrasing. The mothers and fathers presented different emotional support to their children. A significant correlation was found between cognitive and emotional support (r = .41) among fathers across SES groups. The results are discussed in terms of the families’ SES background and parental gender. Implications for researchers and educational practices are discussed.
Evidence of Culture-Dependency and Modifiability of Spatial Memory of Young Adults
Authors: Kozulin Alex
Published: July 2011

New evidence is presented that a basic cognitive function such as spatial memory is strongly culturally dependent and quite modifiable even in adult learners. The study was conducted with several groups of new immigrants from Ethiopia in Israel who were enrolled in a year-long educational program for young adults. Static administration of the Positional Learning Test demonstrated that these new immigrant students experienced considerable difficulty with spatial memory tasks. Learning potential (LP) assessment of spatial memory with the same task was then performed with two additional groups of new immigrant students. Though the groups had the same performance level in the static part of the test, their response to mediation was very different. This finding confirms that individuals with similar static performance may have very different LP. Students who demonstrated greater LP also benefited more from the Instrumental Enrichment intervention. The results of this study therefore suggest that LP assessment has added value for immigrant and minority students similar to those in this study, that spatial memory is both culturally dependent and modifiable, and that LP assessment may serve as a tool that can be helpful for planning cognitive education intervention.
Group Assessment of Learning Potential of Pupils in Mainstream Primary Education and Special Education Classes
Authors: P. Hessels Marco G. , Berger Jean-Louis , Bosson Mélanie
Published: July 2011

The authors present a Rasch scaled instrument for the standardized assessment of children’s learning potential. The test was constructed on the basis of theoretical and empirical considerations regarding the evaluation of general cognitive abilities in children with learning difficulties. It can be administered both individually and in groups. The results of the first two studies show that the pretest—training—posttest procedure allows discriminating between learners with and without learning disorders. Significant training effects are found in the experimental group and the posttest scores of these children improve the prediction of school related criteria. The test appears less related to non-cognitive factors that may influence performance than a classical intelligence testing procedure.
Relationship Between Mother-Child Mediated Learning Experience (MLE) Strategies and Mothers’ Attachment Style and Mental Health
Authors: Isman Esther B. , Tzuriel David
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between mother-child mediated learning experience (MLE) strategies and mothers’ attachment and mental health. Fifty two Israeli mother-child dyads were videotaped at home in two interaction conditions: free play and structured. The interactions were analyzed using the Observation of Mediated Interaction (OMI). Mothers rated themselves on the Attachment Scale and the Mental Health Inventory. MLE strategies were found to be positively predicted by secure attachment and negatively by anxious attachment. In addition, MLE strategies were positively predicted by feelings of wellbeing. Gender differences are discussed. The findings support previous findings about affect-cognition relationships, and indicate the importance of perceiving the mediator from a holistic point of view. Mediation is perceived not only as a determining factor of affective processes, but also as being determined by them.
Gender Symmetry or Asymmetry in Intimate Partner Victimization? Not an Either/Or Answer
Authors: Kar Heidi Lary , O’Leary K. Daniel
Published: July 2011

Gender differences in physical victimization, sexual victimization, injury, fear, and depressive symptoms were assessed in a representative community sample of 453 young couples. The prevalence of any physical victimization experienced by women and men did not differ (29% vs. 30%), but men reported more severe physical victimization than women. No difference in prevalence of overall injury was observed, but more women reported severe injury than men. Almost twice as many women as men reported being sexually victimized (28% vs. 15%). Physically victimized females reported more fear of their partners than physically victimized men and than nonvictimized women. Physically victimized men and women, sexually victimized men and women, and physically injured men and women all had more depressive symptoms than those men and women who were not victimized or injured. Severely victimized women were 3 times more likely than severely victimized men to have depression scores in the clinical range (27% vs. 9%). In sum, whether one finds gender symmetry regarding aggression and its correlates depends on more than simple prevalence of aggression by men and women.
Involvement in Intimate Partner Psychological Abuse and Suicide Proneness in College Women: Alcohol Related Problems as a Potential Mediator
Authors: Lamis Dorian A. , Malone Patrick S. , Langhinrichsen-Rohling Jennifer
Published: July 2011

This study examined the relations among involvement in intimate partner psychological abuse, alcohol-related problems, and suicide proneness as measured by the Life Attitudes Schedule—Short Form (LAS-SF) in college women (N = 709). Results revealed that, as expected, being involved in a psychologically abusive relationship was significantly and positively correlated with alcohol-related problems and alcohol-related problems were significantly and positively correlated with suicide proneness. Additionally, the intimate partner psychological abuse involvement-suicide proneness link was significantly mediated by alcohol-related problems. Implications are offered for the improved identification and treatment of young women at risk for suicidal and health-diminishing behaviors.
Identities as Lenses: How Organizational Identity Affects Audiences' Evaluation of Organizational Performance
Authors: Smith Edward Bishop
Published: July 2011

This study calls into question the completeness of the argument that economic actors who fail to conform to certain identity-based logics—such as the categorical structure of markets—garner less attention and perform poorly, beginning with the observation that some nonconforming actors seem to elicit considerable attention and thrive. By reconceptualizing organizational identity as not just a signal of organizational legitimacy but also a lens used by evaluating audiences to make sense of emerging information, I explore the micro, decision-making foundations on which both conformist and nonconformist organizations may come to be favored. Analyzing the association between organizational conformity and return on investment and capital flows in the global hedge fund industry, 1994-2008, I find that investors allocate capital more readily to nonconforming hedge funds following periods of short-term positive performance. Contrary to prediction, nonconforming funds are also less severely penalized for recent poor performance. Both “amplification” and “buffering” effects persist for funds with nonconformist identities despite steady-state normative pressure toward conformity. I explore the asymmetry of this outcome, and what it means for theories related to organizational identity and legitimacy, in the discussion section.
Founding Conditions, Learning, and Organizational Life Chances: Age Dependence Revisited
Authors: Le Mens Gaël , Hannan Michael T. , Pólos László
Published: July 2011

Empirical evidence about the relation between organizational age and failure is mixed, and theoretical explanations are conflicting. We show that a simple model of organizational evolution can explain the main patterns of age dependence and reconcile the apparently conflicting theoretical predictions. In our framework, the predicted pattern of age dependence depends crucially on the quality of organizational performance immediately after founding and its subsequent evolution, which in turn depends on the intensity of competition. In developing our theory, we clarify issues of levels of analysis as well as the relations between organizational fitness, endowment, organizational capital, and the hazard of failure. We show that once organizational learning is considered, founding conditions affect the fate of organizations in ways more complex than previously acknowledged. We illustrate how the predictions of our theory can be tested empirically and evaluate the effect of aging on the mortality hazards of American microbreweries and brewpubs by estimating the parameters of a random walk with time-varying drift. We also make some conjectures about expected patterns in other empirical settings.
Preoperative cardiac risk management
Authors: Vidakovic Radosav , Poldermans Don , Neskovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2011

Approximately 100 million people undergo noncardiac surgery annually
worldwide. It is estimated that around 3% of patients undergoing noncardiac
surgery experience a major adverse cardiac event. Although cardiac events,
like myocardial infarction, are major cause of perioperative morbidity or
mortality, its true incidence is difficult to assess. The risk of
perioperative cardiac complications depends mainly on two conditions: 1)
identified risk factors, and 2) the type of the surgical procedure. On that
basis, different scoring systems have been developed in order to accurately
assess the perioperative cardiac risk and to improve the patient management.
Importantly, patients with estimated high risk should be tested
preoperatively by non-invasive cardiac imaging modalities. According to test
results, they can proceed directly to planed surgery with the use of
cardioprotective drugs (?-blockers, statins, aspirin), or to myocardial
revascularization prior to non-cardiac surgery. In this review, we discuss
the role of clinical cardiac risk factors, laboratory measurements,
additional non-invasive cardiac testing, and consequent strategies in
perioperative management of patients undergoing noncardiac surgery.
Approach to patients with implanted pacemaker and scheduled surgical or diagnostic procedure
Authors: Pavlovic Sinisa , Milasinovic Goran , Zivkovic Mirjana
Published: July 2011

Application of cardiac electrostimulation in strictly defined indications has
been on the increase over the last few decades. Frequent use of this therapy
as well as the fact that it is applied predominantly in patients in the
seventh decade of life, implies possible significant comorbidities and need
for various diagnostic and surgical procedures. These are the reasons we
decided to point out certain specific features in approaching this patient
group in preparation and implementation of these procedures. Preoperative
approach starts with usual patient history, with additional information on
the type of pacemaker, last pacemaker check and electrocardiogram. This
general approach is not substantialy different for pacemaker or ICD patients.
What is specific is the possible interferrence caused by devices used in
diagnostic or therapeutic procedures (diathermy, lithotripsy). Complications
that may arise are usually related to the underlying disease rather than the
pacemaker malfunction, but still, careful approach and pacemaker check are
warranted, especially in the group marked as "pacemaker dependent". Adequate
preoperative assessment, only slightly different from the usual, represents a
sufficient guarantee for safe procedures - diagnostic, therapeutic or
surgical.
Preoperative preparation of patients with cardiomyopathies in non-cardiac surgery
Authors: Bradic Zeljko , Ivanovic Branislava , Markovic Dejan , Simic Dusica , Jankovic Radmilo , Kalezic Nevena
Published: July 2011

Cardiomyopathies are myocardial diseases in which there is structural and
functional disorder of the heart muscle, in the absence of coronary artery
disease, hypertension, valvular disease and congenital heart disease.
Cardiomyopathies are grouped into specific morphological and functional
phenotypes: dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, restrictive
cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy and
unclassified cardiomyopathies. Patients with dilated and hypertrophic
cardiomypathy are prone to the development of congestive heart failure in the
perioperative period. Also, patients with hypertrophic and arrhythmogenic
right ventricular cardiomyopathy are prone to arrhythmias in the
perioperative period. Preoperative evaluation includes history, physical
examination, ECG, chest radiography, complete blood count, electrolytes,
creatinine, glomerular filtration rate, glucose, liver enzymes, urin
analysis, BNP and echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular function.
Drug therapy should be optimized and continued preoperatively. Surgery should
be delayed (unless urgent) in patients with decompensated or untreated
cardiomyopathy. Preoperative evaluation requires integrated multidisciplinary
approach of anesthesiologists, cardiologist and surgeons.
Preoperative and perioperative management of patients with pericardial diseases
Authors: Ristic Arsen , Simeunovic Dejan , Milinkovic Ivan , Seferovic-Mitrovic Jelena , Maksimovic Ruzica , Seferovic Petar , Maisch Bernhard
Published: July 2011

Hemodynamic instability is the major concern in surgical patients with
pericardial diseases, since general anesthesia and positive pressure
ventilation may precipitate cardiac tamponade. In advanced constriction
diastolic impairment and myocardial fibrosis/atrophy may cause low cardiac
output during and after surgery. Elective surgery should be postponed in
unstable patients with pericardial comorbidities. Pericardial effusion should
be drained percutaneously (in local anesthesia) and pericardiectomy performed
for constrictive pericarditis before any major surgical procedure. In
emergencies, volume expansion, catecholamines, and anesthetics keeping
cardiac output and systemic resistance should be applied. Etiology of
pericardial diseases is an important issue is the preoperative management.
Patients with neoplastic pericardial involvement have generally poor
prognosis and any elective surgical procedure should be avoided. For patients
with acute viral or bacterial infection or exacerbated metabolic, uremic, or
autoimmune diseases causing significant pericardial effusion, surgery should
be postponed until the causative disorder is stabilized and signs of
pericarditis have resolved.
Preoperative preparation of vascular patients undergoing nonvascular surgery
Authors: Kovacevic-Kostic Natasa , Karan Radmila , Vranes Mile , Markovic Dejan , Velinovic Milos , Maksimovic Zivan
Published: July 2011

Patients with vascular diseases mainly caused by atherosclerosis, that are
undergoing nonvascular surgery, often have co-existing conditions which
affect their cardiovascular system. Cardiovascular complications are among
the most common perioperative complications including respiratory
complications and infections. These include coronary disease, hypertension,
heart insufficiency, pulmonary hypertension, and renovascular hypertension,
among others. Preoperative preparation must include the use of ?blocker
therapy, antihypertensive, antithrombotic and antilipogenic therapy.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) and trans-thoracic echocardiography are the minimum
preoperative diagnostic evaluations that should be performed, because
complications may arise even in patients without prior cardiovascular
symptomatology. Venous diseases are the most common contemporary diseases
affecting people of all age groups and races. Invasive-diagnostic-therapeutic
procedures may cause lesions of venous endothelium, hence perioperative
prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with the use of heparin or
low-molecular -weight heparin (LMWH) should be undertaken.
Preoperative preparation of patients with infectious and restrictive respiratory diseases as comorbidities
Authors: Simic Dusica , Ladjevic Nebojsa , Milenovic Miodrag , Bogicevic Angelina , Strajina Veljko , Jankovic Radmilo
Published: July 2011

In patients with respiratory pathology changes in respiratory physiology may
lead to clinical problems during the conduct of anesthesia and the
perioperative period. An understanding of the disease processes that can
affect the lungs and pleura allows the anesthesiologist to account for the
potential complications of these conditions and manage the anesthetic
accordingly. This article describes the initial evaluation of a patient with
respiratory problems. A thorough medical history, physical examination and
some functional tests are the keys in decision-making in preparation for
anesthesia and surgery. The burden of respiratory disease is reviewed, and
some important areas of current interest are highlighted.
Preoperative preparation of patient with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kalezic Nevena , Velickovic Jelena , Jankovic Radmilo , Sabljak Vera , Zivaljevic Vladan , Vucetic Cedomir
Published: July 2011

The goal of this article is to present the importance of diabetes mellitus as
comorbidity in patients submitting to different surgical procedures. The
results of numerous studies that have been presented here showed worst
surgical outcome in patients with bad diabetes control. This review considers
the elements for preoperative evaluation and preparation of these patients
(former therapy, longterm metabolic control, micro and macrovascular
complications etc). According to existing data, the goals for preoperative
preparation and the regimes for their achievement have been defined. Also,
the regimes for blood glucose controle during intraoperative and
postoperative period have been evaluated in this article.
Contemporary approach to preoperative preparation of patients with adrenal cortex hormones dysfunction
Authors: Kalezic Nevena , Malenkovic Vesna , Zivaljevic Vladan , Sabljak Vera , Diklic Aleksandar , Paunovic Ivan
Published: July 2011

Preoperative preparation of the patients with adrenal cortex dysfunction is
based on the careful preoperative evaluation of the type and the severity of
the disturbance. The dysfunction involving adrenal glands may be:
insufficiency (severe, mild, expressed) and hyperfunction (hypercorticism
and/or hyperaldosteronism). If we speak about the patients with limited
adrenal reserve (Addison?s disease, therapeutic glucocorticoid application
etc.) they need necessary corticosteroid supplementation, during
preoperative preparation, as well as, during complete perioperative period.
Doses needed for the substitution are adjusted according to the severity of
adrenal insufficiency and according to the extent of the planned surgical
procedure. Patients with Cushing?s syndrome (or other form of
hypercorticism), as well as, patients with Conn?s syndrome (or other forms
of hyperaldosteronism), do have numerous organ dysfunctions, that are
significant in preoperative preparation, anesthesia and for the outcome of
the surgical treatment. Common feature for both of the above syndromes is
hydroelectrolyte disbalance, with hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis and
hypertension. Disturbances related to the adrenal cortex hyperfunction must
be corrected preoperatively, in order to avoid complications. When we speak
about hypokalemia it must be promptly corrected even before urgent/vital
surgical procedure because it may cause severe intraoperative cardiac
arrhythmia.
Preoperative preparation of patients with renal diseases
Authors: Jovanovic Dijana , Ladjevic Nebojsa , Zivaljevic Vladan , Milenovic Miodrag , Durutovic Otas , Vuksanovic Aleksandar
Published: July 2011

If patients with renal diseases had to undergo surgical intervention, they
should be prepared in such a way to be in a stable phase of the underlying
surgical disease, without any infection, euvolemic, with satisfactory blood
pressure and corrected electrolyte balance. These patients need to be
hydrated well before intervention, the fall of blood pressure during
intervention should be avoided and adequate hydration after the intervention
must be continued (taking into account the condition of the kidneys, heart
and age of patient). It is assumed that nephrotoxic drugs are to be evaded
in renal patients or, if they were necessary, the dosage and dosing interval
should be adjusted and prolonged, respectively. The use of radiographic
contrast is not advisable, but if required, plentiful hydration will be
needed, the least workable contrast dose and, if possible, with lower ionic
charge and lower osmolarity will be administered. If surgical intervention
was urgent and if there was not enough time for conservative therapy, i.e.
correction of electrolytes, volemia, blood pressure and higher values of
nitrate substances, a renal patient would be temporarily dialyzed in the
immediate preoperative and postoperative course. Any surgical intervention
in these patients may aggravate the renal function and bring the patient
closer to dialysis treatment. Nevertheless, sometimes the benefit of
surgical treatment for the acute surgical disease is higher (especially if
it was life-threatening) than the risk of renal function exacerbation and
coming closer to dialysis.
Cell wall localization of the aspartic proteinase from buckwheat (FeAPL1) over-expressed in tobacco BY-2 cells
Authors: Milisavljevic Mira , Timotijevic Gordana , Nikolic Dragana , Samardzic Jelena , Maksimovic Vesna
Published: July 2011

The recombinant aspartic proteinase-like protein (FeAPL1-His6) was
overexpressed in the tobacco BY-2 cell line and the expected pepstatin
A-sensitive enzymatic activity was confirmed at pH 3.0. Immunocytochemistry
and protein gel blot analysis of the transformed BY-2 cells and their
protoplasts showed extracellular localization of rFeAPL1-His6 in the cell
wall. Based on the obtained results, potential functions of FeAPL1 are
discussed.
Myocardial revascularization without extracorporeal circulation in patients at high operative risk
Authors: Kacar Sasa , Kacar Mirjana , Mihajlovic Bogoljub , Kostovski Sasa , Velicki Lazar
Published: July 2011

It is considered that over 25% of surgical patients with coronary artery
disease are treated without extracorporeal circulation, i.e. off-pump
coronary artery bypass. The aim of the study was to evaluate results of
surgical myocardium revascularization in patients at high operative risk.
During the period 2005-2008, 148 patients were operated without the use of
extracorporeal ciruculation. According to the logistic European System for
Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE) stratification, 28 patients
(19%) were designated as the high risk patients. The average age of these
high risk patients was 72 years (55-86). The group consisted of 23 men
(82.1%) and 5 women (17.8%). The postoperative mortality in the whole group
of patients was 0.68% (1/148), whereas it was 0% in the high risk group. The
average number of coronary anastomoses was 2.4. Eight patients (28.6%) had
some sort of postoperative complications. Our results demonstrate safety and
efficacy of surgical revascularization without cardiopulmonary bypass in
patients at high operative risk.
Juvenile myasthenia
Authors: Knezevic-Pogancev Marija
Published: July 2011

Introduction. Juvenile myasthenia is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular
disease characterized by varying degrees of fluctuating, painless muscle
weakness and rapid fatigue of any muscles under voluntary control. Juvenile
myasthenia is a form of myasthenia appearing in adolescent age, representing
10% to 15% of all cases of myasthenia gravis. Juvenile myasthenia is
presented by a defect in the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles,
resulting from a breakdown in the normal communication between nerves and
muscles. In myasthenia, antibodies produced by the body?s own immune system
block, alter, or destroy the receptors for acetylcholine. Juvenile myasthenia
is neither directly inherited nor is it contagious. Signs and Symptoms. The
first noticeable symptoms may be eye muscle weakness, difficulty in
swallowing, or slurred speech. Juvenile myasthenia usually affects muscles
innervated by the cranial nerves (face, lips, tongue, neck and throat), but
it can affect any muscle group. Symptoms vary in type and severity with
typical periods of exacerbation interspersed with periods of remission. When
the muscles necessary for breathing are affected, a patient is said to be in
a myasthenic crisis, which is a life-threatening situation. Disease Outcome
and Treatment. Juvenile myasthenia produces sporadic but progressive weakness
and abnormal fatigability of striated (skeletal) muscles, exacerbated by
exercise and repeated movement, but improved by rest and anticholinesterase
drugs. Juvenile myasthenia follows an unpredictable course of recurring
exacerbations and periodic remissions. With current therapies, however, most
cases of juvenile myasthenia are not as serious as the name implies. Although
there is no known cure, drug treatment has improved prognosis and allows
patients to lead relatively normal lives, except during exacerbations.
Effects of functional electrical therapy on upper extremity functional motor recovery in patients after stroke: Our experience and future directions
Authors: Plavsic Aleksandra , Svirtlih Laslo , Stefanovic Aleksandra , Jovic Stevan , Djurovic Aleksandar , Popovic Mirjana
Published: July 2011

Introduction. New neurorehabilitation together with conventional techniques
provide methods and technologies for maximizing what is preserved from the
sensory motor system after cerebrovascular insult. The rehabilitation
technique named functional electrical therapy was investigated in more than
60 patients in acute, subacute and chronic phase after cerebrovascular
insult. The functional sensory information generated by functional electrical
therapy was hypothesized to result in the intensive functional brain training
of the activities performed. Functional Electrical Therapy. Functional
electrical therapy is a combination of functional exercise and electrical
therapy. The functional electrical therapy protocol comprises voluntary
movement of the paretic arm in synchrony with the electrically assisted hand
functions in order to perform typical daily activities. The daily treatment
of 30 minutes lasts three weeks. The outcome measures include several tests
for the evaluation of arm/hand functionality: upper extremity function test,
drawing test, modified Aschworth scale, motor activity log and passive range
of movement. Results of Functional Electrical Therapy Studies. Results from
our several clinical studies showed that functional electrical therapy, if
applied in acute and subacute stroke patients, leads to faster and greater
improvement of functioning of the hemiplegic arm/hand compared to the control
group. The outcomes were significantly superior at all times after the
treatment for the higher functioning group. Discussion. Additional
well-planned clinical studies are needed to determine the adequate dose of
treatment (timing, duration, intensity) with functional electrical therapy
regarding the patient?s status. A combination with other techniques should be
further investigated.
Adjunctive therapy with brinzolamide in patients on travoprost treatment
Authors: Babic Nikola , Andreic Veljko , Miljkovic Aleksandar , Canadanovic Vladimir , Barisic Sava
Published: July 2011

Introduction. This study was aimed at evaluating the safety and efficacy of
brinzolamide 1% suspension (Azopt? 1%) and travoprost 0.004% (Travatan?)
combined therapy in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension
who are in need of additional intraocular pressure lowering. Material and
methods. This is a prospective, three-month, open-label, clinical study.
Forty patients (80 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular
hypertension on Travatan? treatment and with unsatis-factory results in
lowering intraocular pressure were included in the study. The qualifying
intraocular pressure on previous treatment with Travatan? (at least 6 weeks)
was 22-36 mmHg in at least one eye at 8 a.m. intraocular pressure
measurements at three eligibility visits. The patients received brinzolamide
1% twice a day in addition to travoprost 0.004% given once a day in the
evening for 3 months. The follow-up examinations assessing the safety and
efficacy of combined therapy of brinzolamide 1% and travoprost 0.004% were
performed after 1 and 3 months. Results. Adjunctive therapy with brinzolamide
resulted in statistically significant reductions in intraocular pressure from
the travoprost baseline at all visits. Treatment with brinzolamide/travoprost
caused statistically significant sustained reduction in intraocular pressure
with the reduction of 17.39% (p<0.001) after 4 weeks and 20.08% (p<0.001)
after 12 weeks. The intraocular pressure change from the baseline ranged from
-3.9 mmHg after 4 weeks to -4.48 mmHg after 12 weeks. The most frequently
related adverse effect was abnormal taste and blurred vision. Conclusion.
Brinzolamide 1% (b.i.d.) used adjunctively with travoprost 0.004% (q.d.)
lowers intraocular pressure significantly compared to travoprost alone. Both
drugs were well tolerated and safe in the studied patients.
Prophylaxis of infective endocarditis
Authors: Sakac Dejan , Kovacevic Dragan , Sekulic Slobodan
Published: July 2011

Introduction. Infective endocarditis is defined as an infection of the
endothelial surface of the heart and heart valves, above all. It is a great
challenge for doctors to diagnose infective endocarditis especially in
primary health care, because this is a disease in evolution, bearing in mind
changes in epidemiological and clinical characteristics, which developed in
the last decades. Even today this is a very severe and insidious disease,
with poor prognosis and high mortality. Prevention of Infective Endocarditis.
Although previous guidelines proposed a limitation to prophylaxis in patients
at increased risk of adverse outcome of infective endocarditis, new
guidelines recommend the principles of antibiotic prophylaxis when performing
procedures at risk of infective endocarditis in patients with predisposing
cardiac conditions, and limit its indication to patients at the highest risk
of infective endocarditis undergoing the highest risk procedures. Conclusion.
Despite the fact that previous guidelines for diagnostics and treatment of
infective endocarditis were published only several years ago, the Task Force
on Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infective Endocarditis of the
European Society of Cardiology identify infective endocarditis as a clearly
evolving disease, with changes in its microbiological profile and higher
incidence of health care associated cases which has brought about a need for
new recommendations to help health care providers in making clinical
decisions including preventive measures and antibiotic prophylaxis. As a
novelty, a group of patients at the highest risk of infective endocarditis
was defined as well as the type of procedures at risk divided into four
categories.
Adenomyomatosis of the gallbladder: Case report
Authors: Lalovic Nenad , Cvijanovic Radovan , Dukic-Vladicic Nikolina , Maric Radmil , Jokanovic Dragana , Batinic-Skipina Danijela
Published: July 2011

Adenomyomatosis of the gallbladder is a benign, mostly asymptomatic condition
of an unknown aetiology. Hyperplastic changes in the gallbladder wall cause
an overgrowth of the mucosa, thickening of the muscular wall, and formation
of intramural diverticula or sinus tracts termed Rokitansky-Aschoff sinuses.
Adenomyomatosis is divided on general, segmental and localized. Ultrasound
examination, computerized tomography and magnetic resonance are used in
diagnostic procedure. The importance of the disease lies in the fact that it
can cause recurrent right upper quadrant pain so it must be concerned in
resolving pain cause. This paper was aimed at explaining the aetiology of the
disease, its clinical manifestation, making diagnosis and therapy in order to
make its diagnosis and treatment possible.
A new approach to Bäcklund transformations for longitudinal dispersion of miscible fluid flow through porous media in oil reservoir during secondary recovery process
Authors: Meher Ramakanta , Mehta M.N. , Meher S.K.
Published: July 2011

In this paper a theoretical model has developed for the dispersion problem in
porous media in which the flow is one dimensional and the average flow is
unsteady. The Solution of the dispersion problem is presented by means of a
new approach to B?cklund transformations of nonlinear partial differential
equations.
Two dimensional plastic waves in quasi rate independent viscoplastic materials
Authors: Micunovic M.V. , Albertini C. , Grillo A. , Muha I. , Wittum G. , Kudrjavceva L.
Published: July 2011

The subject of this work is an analysis of the experimental biaxial Hopkinson
bar technique when such a device consists of a cruciform tensile specimen
surrounded by four very long elastic bars. Unlike commonly applied by-pass
analysis which attempts to draw conclusions from behavior of elastic bars we
attempt to take into account real plastic waves inside the specimen with few
hundreds of reflections. A quasi rate-independent as well as a more general
rate-dependent tensor function model for ASME 537 steel are applied. Plastic
wave speeds non-existent in traditional elasto-viscoplasticity are analyzed.
Some preliminary numerical results for symmetric and non-symmetric loading
cases valid for initial and subsequent elastic ranges are given.
Macromolecular structure and viscoelastic response of the organic framework of nacre in Haliotis rufescens: A perspective and overview
Authors: Bezares Jiddu , Peng Zhangli , Asaro Robert , Zhu Qiang
Published: July 2011

Nanoindentation probing on nacre obtained from Haliotis rufescens shells has
demonstrated that nacre displays a combined viscoplastic-viscoelastic time
dependent response. Additionally, it is found that the moisture/water
content of nacre contributes to its time dependent behavior and overall
mechanical properties. Detailed finite element simulations allow for the
determination of constitutive parameters used to calibrate specific time
dependent material models which are, in turn, compared to those found via
independent measurement as reported in the literature. The results lead to a
new paradigm for nacre?s attractive structural composite behavior and
thereby to new potential pathways for biomimetics.
Bimodal optimization with constraints: Critical value of the constraint and post-critical configurations
Authors: Atanackovic Teodor , Seyraniany Alexander
Published: July 2011

By using a method based on Pontryagin?s principle, formulated in [13], and
[14] we study optimal shape of an elastic column with constraints on the
minimal value of the cross-sectional area. We determine the critical value of
the minimal cross-sectional area separating bi from unimodal optimization.
Also we study the post-critical shape of optimally shaped rod and find the
preferred configuration of the bifurcating solutions from the point of view
of minimal total energy.
Prospective, Randomized, Multi-Center Feasibility Trial of rhPDGF-BB versus Autologous Bone Graft in a Foot and Ankle Fusion Model
Authors: DiGiovanni Christopher W. , Baumhauer Judith , Lin Sheldon S. , Berberian Wayne S. , Flemister Adolph S. , Enna Matthew J. , Evangelista Peter , Newman June
Published: July 2011

Background:

The increased morbidity and surgical time associated with harvesting autologous bone graft (ABG) have encouraged surgeons to develop synthetic orthobiologic alternatives. The recombinant form of platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF-BB), an angiogenic, mitogenic, and chemotactic cytokine, has been shown to significantly enhance bone formation in human periodontal osseous defects when combined with a tricalcium phosphate carrier (β-TCP). The purpose of this prospective, controlled, randomized, multi-center feasibility clinical trial was to compare the safety and efficacy of this biosynthetic bone graft substitute (Augment™ Bone Graft) to ABG during ankle and hindfoot fusion.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty adult subjects requiring ankle or hindfoot fusion from three U.S. centers were enrolled and randomized in a 2:1 ratio to receive Augment™ or ABG, respectively. Surgical approach and fixation techniques were standardized, and minimum followup was 9 months. The primary endpoint was radiographic osseous union, evaluated by a blinded independent radiologist. Secondary endpoints included assessment of clinical success, union rate by serial computed tomography (CT) examination, time to full weightbearing, AOFAS Ankle-Hindfoot Score (AOFAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), Short Form-12 (SF-12), and Visual Analog pain assessment Scale (Pain VAS).

Results:

At 36 weeks, 77% (10/13) of the Augment™ and 50% (3/6) of the ABG patients were fused based on radiographic criteria. There were two nonunions in the Augment™ group (9%, 2/14). Healing rates based on 12 week CT scanning (50% osseous bridging) were 69% (9/13) in the Augment™ and 60% (3/5) in the ABG groups, respectively. All functional outcome measures (FFI, AOFAS, SF-12), as well as the VAS pain scores, improved in both groups over time. Surgical procedure times lasted an average 26 minutes longer for the ABG as compared to the Augment™ populations. There were no device related serious adverse events in this study.

Conclusion:

Based on the available data, the rate of radiographic union, time to full weightbearing, and outcomes scores between the Augment™ and ABG subjects appear comparable. Augment™ may represent a safe and efficacious treatment alternative to ABG during foot and ankle arthrodesis. Level of Evidence:
Outcomes following Midfoot Arthrodesis for Primary Arthritis
Authors: Nemec Scott A. , Habbu Rohan A. , Anderson John G. , Bohay Donald R.
Published: July 2011

Background:

Primary midfoot arthritis is a disabling painful condition of the foot. The aim of the study was to assess the functional outcomes following midfoot arthrodesis for primary midfoot arthritis.

Materials and Methods:

Between 2000 and 2006, 95 patients (104 feet) underwent midfoot arthrodesis for primary midfoot arthritis. Midfoot collapse, if present, was corrected at the time of arthrodesis. Mean age at surgery was 62 years. Gastrocnemius contracture was seen in 81 (78%) feet and was treated with a recession. Radiographs were reviewed for correction of deformity. Complications and reoperations were noted. Outcome evaluation included pain, American Orthopaedic Foot Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot score and patient satisfaction. Outcomes were available in 68 patients (74 feet) with mean followup of 56 (range, 24 to 102) months.

Results:

We achieved union in 96 out of 104 feet (92%). There was one delayed union and eight nonunions. Major complications (4/104, 4%) included three deep infections and one chronic regional pain syndrome. Reoperations were required in 11 feet in addition to 26 symptomatic hardware removals. Radiographs showed a significant improvement in the talo-first metatarsal angle and medial cuneiform height. Pain improved from preoperative mean of 7 ± 2 to postoperative mean of 2 ± 2. AOFAS score improved from preoperative mean of 32 (range, 25 to 43) to postoperative mean of 79 (range, 65 to 90). Ninety percent of patients were satisfied with the final result.

Conclusion:

Primary or degenerative arthritis of the midfoot with refractory symptoms was treated with midfoot arthrodesis with good results and a low incidence of nonunion. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Noninsertional Achilles Tendinopathy Treated with Gastrocnemius Lengthening
Authors: Duthon Victoria B. , Lubbeke Anne , Duc Sylvain R. , Stern Richard , Assal Mathieu
Published: July 2011

Background:

Surgery is frequently considered an option for refractory, symptomatic noninsertional Achilles tendinopathy. Gastrocnemius equinus can result in mechanical overload of the Achilles tendon and may be a factor in its etiology. Our hypothesis was that reducing load transmission to the Achilles tendon by gastrocnemius lengthening (Strayer procedure) may be an effective treatment.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective case series of all patients with a minimum 1-year symptomatic nonin-sertional Achilles tendinopathy who underwent gastrocnemius lengthening was evaluated before surgery, and at 1 and 2 years after surgery. There were 14 patients (17 tendons).

Results:

One year after surgery, the median American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score was 100 points, as compared to 71 points preoperatively ( p< 0.001). The median total Foot Function Index (FFI) decreased significantly from 39 to 12 points at 1 year ( p< 0.001) and remained stable (12 points) at 2 years. An electronic goniometer recorded a mean gain in ankle dorsiflexion of 13 degrees. At 1 year after surgery the MRI in all eight patients (ten tendons) with a preoperative MRI demonstrated a decrease in signal hyperintensity and tendon size, signifying an improvement of the tendinopathy. At 2 years after surgery, patient satisfaction assessment revealed that all but one patient was satisfied with the result and 11 of the 14 (79%) patients were able to resume their previous sporting activities. There were no complications.

Conclusion:

Gastrocne-mius lengthening was an effective treatment for chronic Achilles noninsertional tendinopathy. Two-year results show good to excellent clinical outcome. Level of Evidence: Level IV, Prospective Case Series
Radiographic Analysis of Wedge Allograft Correction of Angular Malalignment in Ankle Fusion
Authors: Kleiber Brian D. , Klein Sandra E. , McCormick Jeremy J. , Johnson Jeffrey E.
Published: July 2011

Background:

Patients undergoing ankle arthrodesis often have coronal or sagittal plane malalignment. Correction of this deformity can be technically challenging. This retrospective review examines the use of an augmented interposition wedge allograft for deformity correction in ankle arthrodesis.

Materials and Methods:

Nineteen patients underwent open ankle arthrodesis with interposition allograft at our institution since 2003. Sixteen patients had isolated ankle fusions and three patients had ankle fusions as part of a tibiotalocalcaneal fusion. A wedge of frozen tricortical iliac crest or femoral head allograft was cut to appropriate size and shape to correct angular deformity with an average maximum graft width of 9.5 mm. Fixation of the arthrodesis was with either a cannulated screw and plate construct or a lateral blade plate. Radiographs were reviewed to assess preoperative, initial postoperative and final alignment at the time of solid fusion. Fusion was assessed on plain radiographs by visualization of bridging bony trabeculae.

Results:

Seventeen of 19 patients (89%) obtained fusion at an average of 14.9 wks. Eleven ankles had preoperative tibiotalar valgus deformity with an average coronal alignment of 98.8 degrees and sagittal alignment of 110.5 degrees. Final coronal alignment was 90.9 degrees and sagittal alignment was 107.7 degrees. Eight ankles had varus deformity with an average coronal alignment of 77.4 degrees and sagittal alignment of 101.9 degrees. Final coronal alignment was 89.4 degrees and sagittal alignment was 107.4 degrees.

Conclusion:

The tibiotalar joint fusion rate in this series compares favorably to historically published data for standard ankle fusion. Interposition allograft was an effective method for deformity correction in difficult ankle arthrodeses. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series