bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vestibular Function Tests in Children
Authors: Snashall S E
Published: February 2018

Vestibular function tests were performed on a series of 57 children between the ages of 1 and 16 years. Inattention and immaturity of eye movement control created difficulties in the analysis of the electronystagmography traces in some instances. With the eyes closed, spontaneous and positional nystagmus occurred in 20% of asymptomatic children and this was thought to be physiological. Changes in external ear pressure (fistula test) enhanced this spontaneous nystagmus. Smooth pursuit ataxia and optokinetic abnormalities were common in the children with reading disabilities and those with congenital deafness, and were thought to be soft neurological signs of brainstem dysfunction. The torsion swing chair test was acceptable and gave easily readable responses. Caloric abnormalities were very common in children with reading disabilities and provided useful information in those with congenital and acquired disorders of hearing and balance. It was concluded that normal data were required for children of all ages in order to improve our understanding of electronystagmography in children.
The Anion Gap as a Screening Procedure for Occult Myeloma in the Elderly
Authors: Flanagan N G , Ridway J C , Irving A G
Published: February 2018

Myeloma in the elderly can mimic many disorders, causing delay in diagnosis. In a retrospective study, the mean anion gap at presentation in 78 elderly patients with confirmed myeloma was found to be significantly less than that of aged-matched controls. It is suggested that estimation of the anion gap may be useful as a screening test, particularly as it has no intrinsic cost.
Assessment of Self-Poisoning Patients by Psychiatrists and Junior Medical Staff
Authors: Black D , Creed F
Published: February 2018

Case notes of patients admitted to hospital or seen in the casualty department following an overdose were assessed in a standardized way. The medical records were deficient in several important areas, especially for those patients seen in casualty and not referred to a psychiatrist. If only selected patients were to be assessed by psychiatrists, closer monitoring of the psychiatric assessments and management initiated by junior medical staff would be required. Although the poor records may reflect lack of motivation as much as lack of education, there was no significant relationship between the doctors' attitudes towards self-poisoning patients in general and the standard of their assessments.
The Immediate Response to Injection Therapy for First-Degree Haemorrhoids
Authors: Mann C V , Motson R , Clifton M
Published: February 2018

Over an 8-month period, 100 consecutive patients undergoing sclerotherapy for first-degree haemorrhoids were issued with a questionnaire to assess responses to this treatment. Success was defined as complete cessation of bleeding at defaecation. The effect on bleeding was assessed at the end of 24 hours (99 responders) and 4 weeks later (98 responders): of 61 patients (62%) with no bleeding at 24 hours, only 40 (41%) remained symptom-free at 28 days post-injection. Twelve patients were treatment failures (either unchanged or increased bleeding post-injection). More than half the patients (n=59) experienced pain related to the injection, which was severe in 9 cases. Although only 3 patients expressed complete dissatisfaction with the treatment they received, and overall 88% were either cured of bleeding or improved, the results suggest that critical judgment should be exercised before recommending the treatment to patients with minimal occasional bleeding due to first-degree haemorrhoids.
Specific Therapy in Severe Fetal Intrauterine Growth Retardation: Failure of Prostacyclin
Authors: Steel S A , Pearce J M
Published: February 2018

Two case histories of severe, early onset intrauterine growth retardation are presented. Intravenous prostacyclin was administered in an attempt to promote fetal growth and thus prolong the pregnancy, but was unsuccessful and resulted in intrauterine death in each case. The possible reasons for the failure of this treatment and alternative therapeutic options are discussed.
Do we need to Measure the Vision of Children?
Authors: Fielder A R , Moseley M J
Published: February 2018

With the advent of the acuity card procedure, it is now possible to measure quantitatively the vision of infants and young children in a routine clinical setting. Over a 19 month period 1177 tests were performed on 586 patients; ages ranged from 0.5 weeks to 23 years. Overall 1102 (93%) were successful, as were 588 of the 627 (94%) tests performed on children under the age of two years when no conventional acuity test is possible. The results serve as a background on which the argument for and against the need to measure the vision of children is considered.
Orthopaedic Waiting List Reduction through a Review of Service Provision: The Problems Encountered
Authors: Hochuli V K
Published: February 2018

Measures to eliminate excessive waiting times for orthopaedic outpatient appointments and inpatient treatment were proposed by a Working Party under the chairmanship of Professor R B Duthie. To implement the proposals reliable information is necessary but a survey in a district found that waiting list numbers were inaccurate, activity statistics under represented work levels and there was scepticism about the accuracy of theatre records. With accurate information and use of the proposed methods a service's efficiency should increase, but problems will remain unless measures of outcome, control of input and accident prevention strategies are devised. In the meantime good management of waiting lists will improve the quality and efficiency of a surgical service.
Patient access to Psychiatric Records: The Patients’ View
Authors: Parrott J , Strathdee G , Brown P
Published: February 2018

The passing of legislation relating to subject access to personal health data has been accompanied by concern about the possible harmful effects of this development on patients. Despite the lack of substantive evidence psychiatric patients have been regarded as the group most at risk. This study investigates the subjective views of patients on access to records on two psychiatric wards.
Measuring Symptoms in Terminal Cancer: Are Pain and Dyspnoea Controlled?
Authors: Higginson I , McCarthy M
Published: February 2018

The symptoms of 86 patients referred to a district terminal care support team were rated throughout care using a standardized schedule. Pain was the most common main symptom at referral, occurring in 35 (41%) of the patients. The assessment scores for pain showed significant improvements after one week of care (P<0.01) and there was a further improvement into the week of death. However, towards death, 18 (21%) patients developed dyspnoea as their main symptom, and this became the most severe symptom at death. The symptom assessment scores for patients with dyspnoea showed no change over time, suggesting that existing methods to control dyspnoea are ineffective and that new interventions are needed.
Ten Years Experience of a Genetic Eye Clinic: 1978–1987
Authors: Bundey S , Crews S J
Published: February 2018

Over a ten year period of running a joint ophthalmological/genetic clinic, 387 index patients were advised, and a further 260 individuals (relatives of the above) were examined and counselled. Determination of the precise diagnoses and modes of inheritance in the index patients necessitated retinal function tests in 267 (69%) and examination of 84 of their parents and 23 sisters and daughters. Finally, 41% of index patients and 39% of their relatives were given high risks for transmitting an autosomal dominant or X-linked disorder to their children. It is noteworthy that 16% of these high-risk index patients and 66% of these high-risk relatives had no visual symptoms; ophthalmological expertise was required to assess the significance of their minor signs. It was concluded that an active Register is required for contacting relatives outside the nuclear family, and for future recall of children currently too young for carrier tests or genetic counselling.
Development and Involution of the Notochord in the Human Spine
Authors: Pazzaglia U E , Salisbury J R , Byers P D
Published: February 2018

The availability of a collection of fetal and embryonic spines made possible a review of the involution of the notochord. Results of this histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical study are in accord with the dominant view in the literature that the notochord does not contribute materially to the adult nucleus pulposus. It is also consonant with the expectation that, normally, all chordal cells have disappeared during early childhood, but is not sufficiently detailed to assess the possibility of occasional survivors.
Chlamydia Trachomatis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease - a Coincidence?
Authors: Orda R , Samra Z , Levy Y , Shperber Y , Scapa E
Published: February 2018

Serological tests of 35 patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease were compared to those of 35 healthy controls. The tests were performed using the indirect immunoperoxidase assay.

Ninety-three per cent of 15 patients with Crohn's disease had IgG antibodies against Chlamydia, compared to 26% in the control group. In the 20 patients with ulcerative colitis, 45% had IgG antibodies against Chlamydia, compared to 10% in the control group. High serum titres of IgG antibodies were found in most of the patients with inflammatory bowel disease, mainly with Crohn's disease, while weak reactions appeared in most of the controls in which antibodies were detected. These results suggest a high incidence of Chlamydia infection in the studied patients with inflammatory bowel disease, especially in those with Crohn's disease. The possible association between Chlamydia trachomatis and inflammatory bowel disease is discussed.
Pharmacocavernometry in the Assessment of Erectile Impotence
Authors: Eardley I , Vale J , Holmes S , Patel A , Kirby R S , Lumley J S P
Published: February 2018

Thirty-three impotent men underwent pharmacocavernometry and cavernography. Ten patients had a good clinical response to 60 mg papaverine, nine had a moderate clinical response and in 14, the response was judged to be a poor one. Twelve patients had evidence of abnormal venous leakage from the corpora. Subsequent investigation with isotope phallography showed six patients to have arterial insufficiency and in three of these patients this was amenable to reconstructive vascular surgery.

We conclude that pharmacocavernometry provides a useful, cheap and reliable method for the investigation of impotent men which may be performed on an outpatient basis.
Pathological Lesions of the External Auditory Meatus: A Review
Authors: Friedmann I
Published: February 2018

A closer study of the pathology of the external auditory meatus shows that there are various nonneoplastic and neoplastic diseases of local origin which are of great clinico-pathological importance. These include Kimura's disease and angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia; progressive necrotizing (or malignant) external otitis. Osteoma and ceruminoma are typical neoplasms of the external auditory meatus which is also the site of polypoid granulomatous or neoplastic structures arising from the middle ear cleft. These so-called ‘aural polyps’ often dismissed as of little or no diagnostic importance, may contain significant clues to a serious underlying infection or to a malignant neoplasm. Profuse bleeding may ensue on removal of such polyps.

The histopathological features and their significance are described and discussed.
Open Access Exercise Electrocardiography: Does it Improve the Management of Cardiovascular Disease in the Community?
Authors: Paul V E , Sulke A N , Norris A D C
Published: February 2018

In this study the use of exercise electrocardiography, by 47 general practitioners in South East Kent has been evaluated.

Of 110 consecutive requests the majority (88%) were for diagnostic purposes, while only 7% were for prognostic assessment. Many of those referred were young or had non-cardiac chest pain and in 59% of cases the test result was unlikely to alter the clinical assessment of the probability of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). The test result influenced patient management in 85% of cases. Only 15% of patients were subsequently referred to the district general hospital although all had been considered for referral prior to the test.

Although referral for invasive investigation of six patients was expedited by the provision of stress testing, in five patients general practitioners failed to consider any further investigation despite the patient having a strongly positive test. General practitioners use exercise electrocardiography primarily to exclude IHD in patients at low risk and provide reassurance. They rarely use the test as a means to guide management of those with known or probable IHD.
Intracorporeal Papaverine Injection in Androgen Deprived Men
Authors: Gilbert H W , Gillatt D A , Desai K M , Gingell J C
Published: February 2018

The intracorporeal injection of papaverine (ICP) is now a well recognized therapeutic option in the management of impotence. The current treatment of advanced prostatic carcinoma causes erectile failure. Although intracorporeal papaverine can induce erections in these men, libido is also reduced so that the role of ICP is limited to those men complying with the wishes of a highly motivated partner.
Prescription Information Leaflets: A National Survey
Authors: Gibbs S , Waters W E , George C F
Published: February 2018

Three thousand four hundred and ten patients recruited at 254 pharmacies took part in a national postal survey of the effect of prescription information leaflets. The patients had been prescribed penicillins, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or β-adrenoceptor antagonists. The 1809 patients who received leaflets knew more about their medicines, especially the side effects and were significantly more satisfied than the 1601 patients who were not given additional written information. The leaflets were found to be effective when issued in the north, in the south and in small, medium and large towns. Patients of both sexes, all age groups and social classes were found to benefit from the leaflets and almost everyone (97%) thought they were a good idea. These results confirm and extend our previous findings and add further support for the routine use of information leaflets with prescribed medicines.
Atlantoaxial Instability in down Syndrome-Guidelines for Screening and Detection
Authors: Roy M , Baxter M , Roy A
Published: February 2018

A community survey was conducted in all adults with Down syndrome living in three health districts to see if there was any correlation between radiological and neurological abnormalities which could indicate the presence of atlantoaxial instability. There was no difference in the proportion of individuals with neurological abnormalities in the group with radiological abnormalities suggestive of atlantoaxial instability (6/14) compared with individuals with normal X-rays (50/123) as determined by the chi square test (0.01463: not significant). The clinical and ethical implications for screening of people with Down syndrome living in the community are discussed in view of these findings.
Histological and Environmental Changes in Longstanding Ileal Conduits
Authors: Thomas D J , Goble N M , Gillatt D A , Hammonds J C , Smith P J B
Published: February 2018

Seventeen patients with urinary diversions present for between 10 and 17 years were examined endoscopically. The region of the anastomosis was successfully biopsied in 13 cases. Biopsy specimens were examined both histologically and cytologically. Urine was aspirated from the conduits under sterile conditions and sent for qualification of bacterial flora. Histology revealed a variable degree of villous atrophy, mucosal metaplasia, crypt hyperplasia and in one case, antral type gland metaplasia. The finding of hyperplasia was corroborated by flow cytometry which demonstrated a high percentage of cells in G2 and metaphase. The majority of cases showed a colonic type of bacterial colonization and mucin histochemistry demonstrated a colonic type of mucin.
Long-Term Indwelling Silastic Central Venous Catheters: Clinical Audit Leading to Improved Surgical Technique
Authors: Dennis M J S , Hunter Ann E , Ryan J J
Published: February 2018

A retrospective audit of the surgical insertion and clinical outcome of silastic venous catheters on our Haematology Unit was performed for the period 1985 to 1988. Twenty-three (58%) of the 40 lines had complications, and analysis showed that many were due to problems related to the surgical technique used.

This altered our clinical practice, and over a 12 month period (January 1989 to January 1990) 26 central venous catheters have been placed in 24 patients by a dedicated surgical team using a standardized, altered technique. This has been to place all catheters via the right internal jugular vein and to confirm line position by on-table radiographic screening. A significant improvement in results is presented.
A Camera that Directly Measures Physical Parameters
Authors: Ahmed R , Vernon S A
Published: February 2018

Accurate measurement of physical parameters is essential for the practice of modern medicine and ophthalmology in particular. A measuring device is presented that combines a single lens reflex (SLR) camera body incorporating two aligned in-camera grids with a calibrated macrozoom attachment. The device has multiple applications wherever accurate measurements are required.

The ability to measure and record physical parameters in both health and disease is essential to modern medical practice. This is particularly so in ophthalmology.

Despite the relative accessibility of external structures, the clinician's measuring equipment often takes the form of a clear plastic ruler with the ever present possibility of inaccuracy from parallax and perspective1. Indeed, even in the hands of expert observers, the results from the commercially produced Hertel exophthalmometer are prone to significant variation2.

Various photographic methods of measurement have been described using a fixed focal length lens system3,4, and recently evaluated5. These, however, require processing of the photographs before measurements can be taken.

We present a simple, relatively inexpensive multipurpose device which can measure physical parameters directly and record photographic evidence of these measurements.

In essence, the device consists of a single lens reflex (SLR) camera fitted with two carefully aligned grids, linked to a calibrated macrozoom lens.
Persisting Incidence and Mortality of Sinogenic Cerebral Abscess: A Continuing Reflection of Late Clinical Diagnosis
Authors: Chalstrey S , Pfleiderer A G , Moffat D A
Published: February 2018

Seventy-four verified cases of cerebral abscess seen in the Regional Neurosurgical Centre at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge between 1965 and 1987 were reviewed. During that time no decline in incidence or change in the associated mortality was found to occur. ENT disease, taken as a whole, represented the most common source (40%) while acute frontal sinusitis (23%) proved to be the most common single underlying cause. Cerebral abscesses of sinogenic origin in particular were diagnosed late, with a deteriorating conscious level being the precipitating event in 94% of cases. Over 80% of such patients had presented initially to a non-ENT department with acute frontal headache where neither the underlying frontal sinusitis nor the developing intracranial complication had been suspected. These findings might explain why the incidence and mortality associated with cerebral abscesses of sinogenic origin, have changed little in the last 25 years despite improvements in diagnostic imaging, surgical technique and antibiotic therapy. We recommend that the diagnosis of acute frontal sinusitis be considered in any patient who presents with acute frontal headache, particularly if symptoms are unilateral. Furthermore, we stress that early confirmation of intracerebral complications by computerized axial tomography (CT) scanning continues to depend entirely upon an early clinical diagnosis which should result from a high level of clinical suspicion in patients who develop intracranial symptoms in the presence of known acute frontal sinus infection.
An Audit of Surgical Treatment of Ovarian Cancer in a Metropolitan Health Region
Authors: Hudson C N , Potsides P , Curling O M
Published: February 2018

The varied application of surgery to the initial treatment of 908 cases of primary ovarian cancer is analysed. In patients with advanced disease (FIGO Stages IIb, III and IV) 256 (46%) of 555 women achieved minimal residual disease status by primary surgery and this proportion fell to 24% when only stages III and IV were considered; of these cases 7% underwent adjunctive intestinal resection or urinary tract surgery. Although not in a clinical trial situation the women achieving minimal residual disease status before chemotherapy survived better in the short term, although long-term survival remained disappointing.

In early disease 3% of young women have been subjected to hysterectomy and removal of both ovaries. By contrast, in 16% of women over the age of 40 years with early ovarian cancer bilateral oophorectomy was not carried out.
Psychomotor and Clinical Assessment of Flumazenil as an Antagonist of Midazolam
Authors: Bill K M , Fee J P H , Clarke R S J
Published: February 2018

The benzodiazepine antagonist flumazenil (0.01 mg/kg) has been compared with doxapram (1 mg/kg) and saline for the reversal of anaesthesia with intravenous midazolam, alfentanil, nitrous oxide in oxygen and isoflurane. The completeness of reversal was assessed by means of a four-choice reaction time test, 1 and 3 h following the antagonist. In addition, the level of sedation was graded using a five-point scale.

Psychomotor testing showed that 60 min after administration of the antagonist, there were marked increases in reaction times (P < 0.05) both in the control and doxapram groups, but not in those receiving flumazenil. At 180 min, however, reaction times in all groups had returned to baseline values. In contrast, there was a significant difference in the sedation scores between the saline and flumazenil groups throughout the study period (P < 0.05).

During the 4 h following midazolam, there was no evidence of re-sedation in any of the groups despite the relatively high midazolam dosage.
Self-Help, Mutual Aid and Chronic Patients' Clubs in Croatia, Yugoslavia: Discussion Paper
Authors: Kulčar Z
Published: February 2018

This paper describes the clubs for patients with hypertension which have operated effectively in parts of Croatia and Slovenia (Yugoslavia) for more than 15 years, with many thousands of patients enrolling voluntarily. Based on the principle of self-help, yet involving the regular participation of members of a patient's own primary health team, they increase compliance with long-term treatment regimens and improve the quality of life.

Such programmes are capable of reducing the amount of time devoted by a medical practitioner while increasing the effectiveness of treatments. If they are to succeed, it is essential to ensure regular club meetings, social activities and encouragement to each individual member to find a role and to continue attending for as long as possible. A new life style and consequent benefits to health are obtained only through long membership.
Drug Treatment of Chronic Venous Insufficiency and Venous Ulceration: A Review
Authors: Cheatle T R , Scurr J H , Smith P D Coleridge
Published: February 2018

Treatment of venous insufficiency and venous ulceration has for many years relied on established principles of compression and limb elevation. Drug treatment has been of little benefit. In recent years, a better understanding of the pathological mechanisms underlying skin damage in venous disease has allowed more rational pharmacotherapeutic approaches to be made. This review examines these, with special reference to current theories of the cause of venous ulceration.
Waiting List Initiatives: Crisis Management or Targeting of Resources?
Authors: Mills R P , Heaton J M
Published: February 2018

To investigate the impact of a waiting list initiative on an ENT surgical waiting list, we have evaluated the outcome of the Tayside ENT Waiting List Initiative. Four hundred and forty-five patients were offered dates to come in during the initiative. Of these, 280 underwent surgery and 16 indicated that their operations were no longer necessary. The maximum wait for routine operations falling within the criteria for inclusion in the initiative was 28 months prior to the initiative and 7 months afterwards. A waiting list initiative can be effective in reducing waiting times for routine surgery. However, it is too early to describe the Tayside initiative as an unqualified success, as it remains to be seen whether or not the waiting list will lengthen again now that it is over.
Preanaesthetic Medication: A Survey of Current Usage
Authors: Mirakhur R K
Published: February 2018

A survey has been carried out amongst the UK based members of the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland regarding their practice of premedication. Ninety-three per cent of respondents (reply rate 51.7%) used sedative-hypnotic premedication routinely in adults and 84% in children. However, anticholinergic premedication was used by only 36% in adults and 56% in children. Temazepam was the most frequently used sedative premedicant in adults and trimeprazine in children. Atropine and hyoscine were the most frequently used anticholinergic drugs. The main reasons for using sedative-hypnotic premedication were allaying anxiety and providing sedation. The main reasons for using anticholinergic drugs were drying of secretions and protection against vagal overactivity. This survey concludes that while sedative-hypnotic premedication continues to be used in the majority of patients with oral benzodiazepines the most frequently used drugs, the use of anticholinergic premedication continues to decline.
Levels of Visual Impairment in a Day Centre for People with a Mental Handicap
Authors: Haire A R , Vernon S A , Rubinstein M P
Published: February 2018

A prospective study screening for visual impairment in a day centre for people with a mental handicap showed that 30% required spectacles or registration as blind or partially-sighted and a further 20% had previously unknown pathology. Carers were not reliable in identifying visual problems in their charges, and routine screening should be encouraged. High Street optometrists should be able to measure visual acuity in the individuals in this sample excluding those cared for in special care units for whom screening may be less beneficial.
Screening Siblings for Glaucoma in the UK
Authors: Vernon S A
Published: February 2018

The current practice and ideals of ophthalmologists when alerting and screening siblings at risk of chronic simple glaucoma were assessed by means of a questionnaire. Seventy-nine per cent of Trent Region consultants responded, and of these, 18% do not attempt to alert siblings of glaucoma sufferers. Those who do rely on the probands to alert their siblings and the high street optometrists to screen. Under more favourable conditions, all respondents would advise screening for siblings over 40 years of age. Fifty-nine per cent would then advocate the letter as the optimum method of communication and 78% would prefer that an ophthalmologist screen this high risk group.

In a pilot study of a hospital-based screening service, siblings living within a 15 mile radius of the hospital were invited by letter to attend for screening. Ninety per cent attended, of whom 12.5% required treatment and a further 11% careful observation. The cost of detecting a case of treatable disease by this strategy was estimated at £138.
Variations in the Prevalence of Spondylolysis in Early British Populations
Authors: Waldron H A
Published: February 2018

Crude prevalence rates of spondylolysis were estimated in skeletal populations from various periods. There was a steady increase in prevalence from 3.74% in Romano-British to 5.08% in medieval populations, but the rate fell considerably to 1.42% in a population from an 18th/19th century context. This trend was not statistically significant, however. The male/female ratio was approximately unity until the 18th/19th century when the expected male excess appeared.

The lesions predominantly affected L5 and all were isthmic in type. Of the total of 52 cases, only four were unilateral. One occurred in the fourth cervical vertebra. There were few complications; spondylolisthesis was noted in four cases and in three there were osteoarthritic changes on the superior margin of the displaced lamina.
Treatment of Colonic Anastomotic Strictures with ‘Through the Scope’ Balloon Dilators
Authors: Grundy A , Page J E
Published: February 2018

Preference is given to letters commenting on contributions published recently in the JRSM. They should not exceed 300 words and should be typed double-spaced.
Seeing the Big Picture: A Within-Person Examination of Leader Construal Level and Vision Communication
Authors: Venus Merlijn , Johnson Russell E. , Zhang Shuxia , Wang Xiao-Hua (Frank) , Lanaj Klodiana
Published: February 2018

Despite the importance of leader vision communication to effective leadership, little is known about what prompts leaders to communicate a vision in the first place. Drawing from construal level theory, we examined the within-person relationship of leader construal level in the morning with vision communication during that workday. Leadership self-identity, or the extent to which “being a leader” is central to one’s self-concept, was specified as a cross-level moderator of the daily construal level–vision communication relationship. We tested our predictions using an experience sampling design across 15 consecutive workdays. In total, we obtained a total of 394 matched morning and afternoon surveys from 44 mid- to high-level managers. Results revealed that a high-level construal level in the morning was positively associated with vision communication during the day but only when leadership self-identity is high (vs. low). We discuss the theoretical implications of our findings, in particular with regard to the emerging field of visionary leadership as well as the emerging literature that uses construal level theory to explain leadership phenomena.
Spheres: Towards a Techno-Social Ontology of Place/s
Authors: Rashof Sascha
Published: February 2018

This review presents a systematic reading of Peter Sloterdijk’s Spheres trilogy, as part of a larger project to develop a techno-social ontology of place/s. Arguing against universalizing theories of time and space, including Sloterdijk’s own conception of Spheres as ‘Being and Space’, this essay reads the trilogy through a ‘platial’ framework. While commenting on some of the shortcomings of the official English translations, the three volumes are being worked through methodically – Bubbles (micro spherology), Globes (macro spherology) and Foams (plural spherology) – by placing particular emphasis on the third book, where Sloterdijk’s logic of spheres converges. The essay concludes by pointing out the limitation of Spheres as (philosophical) anthropology.
A comparative study of Gaussian and non-Gaussian diffusion models for differential diagnosis of prostate cancer with in-bore transrectal MR-guided biopsy as a pathological reference
Authors: Li Chunmei , Chen Min , Wan Ben , Yu Jingying , Liu Ming , Zhang Wei , Wang Jianye
Published: February 2018

Background

Although several studies have been reported on evaluating the performance of Gaussian and different non-Gaussian diffusion models on prostate cancer, few studies have been reported on the comparison of different models on differential diagnosis for prostate cancer.

Purpose

To compare the utility of various metrics derived from monoexponential model (MEM), biexponential model (BEM), stretched-exponential model (SEM) based diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) in the differential diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Material and Methods

Thirty-three patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination. Multi-b value and multi-direction DWIs were performed. In-bore MR-guided biopsy was performed. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), pure molecular diffusion (ADCslow), pseudo-diffusion coefficient (ADCfast), perfusion fraction (f), water molecular diffusion heterogeneity index (α), distributed diffusion coefficient (DDC), non-Gaussian diffusion coefficient (MD), and mean kurtosis (MK) values were calculated and compared between cancerous and non-cancerous groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed for all parameters and models.

Results

ADC, ADCslow, DDC, and MD values were significantly lower while MK value was significantly higher in prostate cancer than those of prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia. ADC, ADCslow, DDC, MD, and MK could discriminate between tumor and non-tumorous lesions (area under the curve, 0.856, 0.835, 0.866, 0.918, and 0.937, respectively). MK was superior to ADC in the discrimination of prostate cancer. DKI was superior to MEM in the discrimination of prostate cancer.

Conclusions

Parameters derived from both Gaussian and non-Gaussian models could characterize prostate cancer. DKI may be advantageous than DWI for detection of prostate cancer.
Patient and family engagement in Alberta Health Services: Improving care delivery and research outcomes
Authors: Singh Sarah , Burns Katharina Kovacs , Rees Jennifer , Picklyk Deanna , Spence Jessica , Marlett Nancy
Published: February 2018

Engaging patients and families in research and the design of quality improvement is an essential component of Patient and Family Centred Care (PFCC). Alberta Health Services (AHS) has been engaging patients and families to promote a cultural shift towards PFCC. The AHS trains patient and family advisors to share their experiences and encourages staff to work with advisors to co-design improvements in care. This article briefly describes the role and growth of patient and family advisors, advisory groups, and the participation of advisors in research initiatives through AHS’ Strategic Clinical NetworksTM. It also describes recent efforts to build AHS’ patient and family engagement capacity by introducing standard patient engagement training, supporting the creation of the innovative Patient and Community Engagement Research internship program, and by developing tools to measure the impact of patient and advisors on AHS. And finally, this article provides key learnings for health leaders.
Transposition of Mandibular Molars in a Dog
Authors: Woody Allison
Published: February 2018

Tooth transposition is a rare anomaly resulting in the interchanged position of 2 permanent teeth. Etiology of tooth transposition is unclear. In human dentistry, multiple influences are described, and there is strong evidence of a genetic basis. This is the first reported case of tooth transposition in a dog.
Histopathologic Diagnoses From Biopsies of the Oral Cavity in 403 Dogs and 73 Cats
Authors: Wingo Kipp
Published: February 2018

This retrospective study documents the prevalence of various histopathological diagnoses within a practice specializing in veterinary dentistry and oral surgery. Histopathology results obtained from biopsies of oral lesions from 403 dogs and 73 cats were sorted and categorized. Lesions of inflammatory origin represented the most common histopathology result in cats (n = 37; 51%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (n = 27; 37%). The most common histopathological diagnoses in dogs were malignant neoplasms (n = 151; 37%), followed by tumors of odontogenic origin (n = 138, 34%) and lesions of inflammatory origin (n = 114; 28%). The results of this study are representative of a private referral dentistry practice and are compared to other studies that assessed common oral neoplasia diagnoses in dogs and cats. Treatment options and prognoses of the most common canine and feline neoplasms are discussed.
Genital Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections among women in sub-Saharan Africa: A structured review
Authors: Dubbink Jan Henk , Verweij Stephan P , Struthers Helen E , Ouburg Sander , McIntyre James A , Morré Servaas A , Peters Remco PH
Published: February 2018

Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae constitute major public health problems among women, but the burden of infection in sub-Saharan Africa is poorly documented. We conducted a structured review of the prevalence and incidence of genital, oral and anal C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae infection in women in sub-Saharan Africa. We searched Medline, EMBASE and Web of Science over a 10-year period for studies on epidemiology of genital, oral and anal chlamydial infection and gonorrhoea in women in all countries of sub-Saharan Africa. We assessed geographic and demographic differences in prevalence and incidence of infection; weighted mean prevalence estimates were calculated with a random-effect model. A total of 102 study results were included, with data available for 24/49 of sub-Saharan countries. The weighted prevalence of chlamydial infection was lower among women in community-based studies (3.9%; 95% CI: 2.9–5.1%) than for women recruited at primary healthcare facilities (6.0%; 95% CI: 4.2–8.4%, p < 0.001); the same was observed for gonorrhoea (2.2%; 95% CI: 1.2–4.0% vs. 4.2%; 95% CI: 3.2–5.6%, p < 0.001). Prevalence of Chlamydia among sex workers was 5.5% (95% CI: 4.2–7.3%) and gonorrhoea 7.6% (95% CI: 5.4–11%). Seven studies reported on incidence which varied between 0.75–28 and 2.8–17 per 100 person-years-at-risk for chlamydial infection and gonorrhoea, respectively. Only two studies reported on anal infections and one on oral infection. This overview underscores the considerable incidence and prevalence of genital C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae in women in different settings in sub-Saharan Africa. Better control strategies are warranted to reduce the burden of infection and to prevent long-term complications of these infections.
A Logit Model to Predict Innovativeness among Mobile Telecom Service Users
Authors: Thakur Anand , Jasrai Lokesh
Published: February 2018

Innovativeness in consumers accelerates the innovative behaviour resulting into successful adoption and diffusion of innovation. Despite extensive literature available on consumer innovativeness (CI), the present study identifies a research gap on the relationship between demographics and innovativeness for telecom services as a specific domain. The research draws on investigating the impact of demographic antecedents on CI aiming to differentiate the customers in two distinct categories, namely, low and high innovativeness for effective target marketing. A logit model has been applied in this research indicating the effect of overall contribution of multi-category variables as well as contribution of each parameter by considering age, gender, income and family life cycle as explanatory variables. The results of binary logistic regression indicate age as the better predictor of innovativeness followed by gender and family life cycle, whereas income is considered as an insignificant variable. The study offers implications for designing effective marketing mix and using consumers’ innovativeness for successful diffusion and adoption in mobile telecom services.
A Summary of NCSER-Funded Projects in the Area of Transition Outcomes for Secondary Students With Disabilities
Authors: Test David W. , Terrell Misty , Clark Kelly A. , Rusher Dana E.
Published: February 2018

Special education practitioners are required to use instructional practices based on scientific research. Conducting high-quality research can be expensive and researchers often need federal funding to assist in documenting effective practices. The National Center for Special Education Research (NCSER) within the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) is a preferred source of funding for this type of special education research. The purpose of this review was to summarize publications from grants funded from 2006 until 2013 by NCSER in the area of Transition Outcomes for Special Education Secondary Students, describe major findings, and discuss their contributions to the field. We reviewed information from 22 grants and 132 articles published in refereed journals with an additional one article in press. Contributions to the field, limitations, suggestions for future research, implications for practice, and conclusions are discussed.
Morphologic Evaluation for Safe Le Fort I Osteotomy in Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Watanabe Miki , Watanabe Akira , Takano Nobuo , Saito Chikara , Shibahara Takahiko
Published: February 2018

Objective:

The present study aimed to determine the structure and morphology of the maxilla in patients with cleft lip and palate to ensure safe Le Fort I osteotomy.

Patients:

A total of 34 sides of 17 patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (nonsyndromic cases) were included in this study. The control group included 10 sides of 5 patients who exhibited skeletal mandibular protrusion without malformation.

Methods:

Finite element analysis was performed to examine the distribution of occlusal force over the maxilla, and continuous 3-dimensional measurement was performed at the sites of stress concentration.

Results:

In patients with cleft lip and palate, bones at the lateral border of the piriform aperture and the anterior wall of the maxillary sinus were significantly thicker than those in controls ( P < .05). Furthermore, the attachment of the pterygomaxillary junction was wider and thicker ( P < .05), and the anterior distance to the descending palatine artery was shorter ( P < .01) in patients with cleft lip and palate than in controls. Our results further indicated that alveolar bone grafting may significantly influence bone thickness and the attachment state of the pterygomaxillary junction.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that the complications of LFI can be reduced in patients with cleft lip and palate by ensuring proper understanding of each patient’s maxillary anatomy and bone thickness, as well as the location of the descending palatine artery and the attachment state of the pterygomaxillary junction.
Smart electrical and magnetic stability analysis of exponentially graded shear deformable three-layered nanoplate based on nonlocal piezo-magneto-elasticity theory
Authors: Arefi M , Zamani MH , Kiani M
Published: February 2018

The present research deals with magnetic and electric buckling loads of three-layered elastic nanoplate with exponentially graded core and piezomagnetic face-sheets. Material properties of the nano-graphene core obey the exponential function along the thickness direction. The governing equations based on first-order shear deformation theory are deduced using variational method. The influence of nanoscale is considered by employing nonlocal piezo-magneto-elasticity theory. The governing equations of nanostructure are solved analytically. Eventually the effect of significant parameters such as length-scale parameter, in-homogenous index, geometrical characteristics and parameters of foundation on the magneto-electro responses of problem is numerically investigated.
Pyoderma Gangranosum–Like Blastomycosis
Authors: Mak Jessica , Al Habeeb Ayman , Al Kalabi Mona , Alavi Afsaneh
Published: February 2018

Blastomyces dermatitidis is typically contracted through inhalation of the dimorphic conidia, resulting in pulmonary infection as well as extrapulmonary disease through hematogenous spread. Blastomycosis is considered one of the great mimickers in medicine, with verrucous cutaneous blastomycosis resembling skin malignancy and B dermatitidis pulmonary infections often confused with lung cancer. Cutaneous blastomycosis can also often mimic pyoderma gangrenosum and should be considered in the differential diagnosis in any suspected case. This case involves a cutaneous blastomycosis lesion of the leg that was initially diagnosed as squamous cell carcinoma, which was excised. Within a month, the atypical lesion recurred in the area and was unresponsive to antibiotic therapy, rapidly progressing in size and inflammation. We discuss the eventual diagnosis of this blastomycosis infection and the importance of ruling out cutaneous blastomycosis when managing pyoderma gangrenosum.
Transnational Religious Place-Making: Sri Lankan Migrants’ Physical and Virtual Buddhist Places in South Korea
Authors: Habarakada Sanjeewani , Shin HaeRan
Published: February 2018

This article looks at the relationship between virtual Buddhist practices that keep Sri Lankan migrants’ engaged with Buddhist community and leadership both in South Korea and elsewhere. Based on mixed ethnographic research methods including participant observation and in-depth interviews, the research demonstrates the following findings. First, the key actors of the Buddhist place-making included Sri Lankan migrant workers, a Sri Lankan ambassador, Sri Lankan temples, Korean temples, and virtual temple participants from other countries. Migrant workers’ collaboration with them contributed to institutionalizing the physical temple. Second, the making of the virtual temple interacted with the making of physical Buddhist places, rather than replacing it. Hosting a virtual temple via Skype expanded into including Sri Lankan migrants who live in other countries. This study contributes to the mobilities discussion as well as place-making discussion by articulating the specific process of transnational religious place-making.
Information needs of parents of infants diagnosed with cystic fibrosis: Results of a pilot study
Authors: Edwards Danielle J , Wicking Kristin , Smyth Wendy , Shields Linda , Douglas Tonia
Published: February 2018

This study investigated the information needs, priorities and information-seeking behaviours of parents of infants recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) following newborn screening, by piloting the ‘Care of Cystic Fibrosis Families Survey’. The questionnaires were posted to eligible parents ( n = 66) attending CF clinics in hospitals in two Australian states; reply-paid envelopes were provided for return of the questionnaires. Twenty-six were returned (response rate 39.4%). The most common questions to which parents required answers during their initial education period related to what CF is, how it is treated and how to care for their child. Parents preferred face-to-face consultations to deliver information, and yet all reported using the Internet to search for more information at some point during the education period. Many parents provided negative feedback about being given their child’s CF diagnosis via telephone. The timing, content and method of information delivery can all affect the initial education experience. We can deliver education to better suit the information needs and priorities for education of parents of infants recently diagnosed with CF. The Care of Cystic Fibrosis Families Survey was successfully piloted and recommendations for amendments have been made for use in a larger study across Australia.