bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ageing Effects on Microstructure, Mechanical Properties, and Fracture Behaviour of 9Cr-1.5Mo-1Co-VNbBN Martensitic Steel Welded Joint for High Temperature Application
Authors: Falat Ladislav , Homolová Viera , Čiripová Lucia , Ševc Peter , Svoboda Milan
Published: January 2017

This paper deals with long-term ageing effects of 9Cr-1.5Mo-1Co-VNbBN (CB2) steel weldment on its impact toughness, creep rupture behaviour, and hardness in relation to microstructure and fracture characteristics. The weldment was studied in PWHT state and after isothermal expositions at 625°C for 10000 and 30000 hours. Microstructure evolution was studied using analytical scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Charpy V-notch impact toughness tests were performed for all heat-treated states with a notch location in distinct weld regions such as weld metal (WM), heat-affected zone (HAZ), and base material (BM). The overheated HAZ region exhibited the lowest impact toughness as a result of severe welding induced microstructure degradation. Creep tests were performed at 625°C in the stress range between 80 and 120 MPa. At the highest applied stress, creep fracture occurred in WM, whereas at lower stresses the failure position shifted towards fusion zone at WM/HAZ interface. The hardness profiles experienced significant scattering due to weld microstructural heterogeneity. The major fracture mechanisms involved transgranular quasi cleavage and intergranular creep cracking in impact and creep loading conditions, respectively.
A Weather-Based Prediction Model of Malaria Prevalence in Amenfi West District, Ghana
Authors: Darkoh Esther Love , Larbi John Aseidu , Lawer Eric Adjei
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the effects of climatic variables, particularly, rainfall and temperature, on malaria incidence using time series analysis. Our preliminary analysis revealed that malaria incidence in the study area decreased at about 0.35% annually. Also, the month of November recorded approximately 21% more malaria cases than the other months while September had a decreased effect of about 14%. The forecast model developed for this investigation indicated that mean minimum (P=0.01928) and maximum (P=0.00321) monthly temperatures lagged at three months were significant predictors of malaria incidence while rainfall was not. Diagnostic tests using Ljung-Box and ARCH-LM tests revealed that the model developed was adequate for forecasting. Forecast values for 2016 to 2020 generated by our model suggest a possible future decline in malaria incidence. This goes to suggest that intervention strategies put in place by some nongovernmental and governmental agencies to combat the disease are effective and thus should be encouraged and routinely monitored to yield more desirable outcomes.
Actinomyces meyeriPopliteal Cyst Infection and Review of the Literature
Authors: Palraj Bharath Raj , Dababneh Ala S.
Published: January 2017

A 66-year-old, Caucasian male presented with pain and swelling involving the left knee of one-week duration. Arthrocentesis was negative for evidence of septic arthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study of the left knee showed degenerative arthritis, partial tear of medial meniscus, and a complex fluid collection along the posteromedial aspect of the left knee suggestive of popliteal cyst. He underwent arthroscopy with partial medial meniscectomy. Intraoperative joint fluid was noted to be cloudy but cultures were negative. Arthroscopic procedure provided him with temporary relief but the pain and swelling in the posterior aspect of the left knee recurred in 6 weeks. Repeat MRI showed complex fluid collection in the posterolateral aspect of left knee. Ultrasound guided aspiration of the fluid collection revealed purulent material and cultures grewActinomyces meyeri. He was treated with 6 weeks of intravenous penicillin regimen followed by 18 months of oral penicillin.
AZD6738, A Novel Oral Inhibitor of ATR, Induces Synthetic Lethality with ATM Deficiency in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Min Ahrum , Im Seock-Ah , Jang Hyemin , Kim Seongyeong , Lee Miso , Kim Debora Keunyoung , Yang Yaewon , Kim Hee-Jun , Lee Kyung-Hun , Kim Jin Won , Kim Tae-Yong , Oh Do-Youn , Brown Jeff , Lau Alan , O'Connor Mark J. , Bang Yung-Jue
Published: January 2017

Ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) can be considered an attractive target for cancer treatment due to its deleterious effect on cancer cells harboring a homologous recombination defect. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential use of the ATR inhibitor, AZD6738, to treat gastric cancer.

In SNU-601 cells with dysfunctional ATM, AZD6738 treatment led to an accumulation of DNA damage due to dysfunctional RAD51 foci formation, S phase arrest, and caspase 3–dependent apoptosis. In contrast, SNU-484 cells with functional ATM were not sensitive to AZD6738. Inhibition of ATM in SNU-484 cells enhanced AZD6738 sensitivity to a level comparable with that observed in SNU-601 cells, showing that activation of the ATM-Chk2 signaling pathway attenuates AZD6738 sensitivity. In addition, decreased HDAC1 expression was found to be associated with ATM inactivation in SNU-601 cells, demonstrating the interaction between HDAC1 and ATM can affect sensitivity to AZD6738. Furthermore, in an in vivo tumor xenograft mouse model, AZD6738 significantly suppressed tumor growth and increased apoptosis.

These findings suggest synthetic lethality between ATR inhibition and ATM deficiency in gastric cancer cells. Further clinical studies on the interaction between AZD 6738 and ATM deficiency are warranted to develop novel treatment strategies for gastric cancer. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(4); 566–77. ©2017 AACR.
Co-targeting HGF/cMET Signaling with MEK Inhibitors in Metastatic Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Cheng Hanyin , Chua Vivian , Liao Connie , Purwin Timothy J. , Terai Mizue , Kageyama Ken , Davies Michael A. , Sato Takami , Aplin Andrew E.
Published: January 2017

Patients with metastatic uveal melanoma usually die within 1 year of diagnosis, emphasizing an urgent need to develop new treatment strategies. The liver is the most common site of metastasis. Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) inhibitors improve survival in V600 BRAF–mutated cutaneous melanoma patients but have limited efficacy in patients with uveal melanoma. Our previous work showed that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling elicits resistance to MEK inhibitors in metastatic uveal melanoma. In this study, we demonstrate that expression of two BH3-only family proteins, Bim-EL and Bmf, contributes to HGF-mediated resistance to MEK inhibitors. Targeting HGF/cMET signaling with LY2875358, a neutralizing and internalizing anti-cMET bivalent antibody, and LY2801653, a dual cMET/RON inhibitor, overcomes resistance to trametinib provided by exogenous HGF and by conditioned medium from primary hepatic stellate cells. We further determined that activation of PI3Kα/γ/δ isoforms mediates the resistance to MEK inhibitors by HGF. Combination of LY2801653 with trametinib decreases AKT phosphorylation and promotes proapoptotic PARP cleavage in metastatic uveal melanoma explants. Together, our data support the notion that selectively blocking cMET signaling or PI3K isoforms in metastatic uveal melanoma may break the intrinsic resistance to MEK inhibitors provided by factors from stromal cells in the liver. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(3); 516–28. ©2017 AACR.
Elabela/Toddler Is an Endogenous Agonist of the Apelin APJ Receptor in the Adult Cardiovascular System, and Exogenous Administration of the Peptide Compensates for the Downregulation of Its Expression in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Yang Peiran , Read Cai , Kuc Rhoda E. , Buonincontri Guido , Southwood Mark , Torella Rubben , Upton Paul D. , Crosby Alexi , Sawiak Stephen J. , Carpenter T. Adrian , Glen Robert C. , Morrell Nicholas W. , Maguire Janet J. , Davenport Anthony P.
Published: January 2017

Background:

Elabela/toddler (ELA) is a critical cardiac developmental peptide that acts through the G-protein–coupled apelin receptor, despite lack of sequence similarity to the established ligand apelin. Our aim was to investigate the receptor pharmacology, expression pattern, and in vivo function of ELA peptides in the adult cardiovascular system, to seek evidence for alteration in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in which apelin signaling is downregulated, and to demonstrate attenuation of PAH severity with exogenous administration of ELA in a rat model.

Methods:

In silico
docking analysis, competition binding experiments, and downstream assays were used to characterize ELA receptor binding in human heart and signaling in cells expressing the apelin receptor. ELA expression in human cardiovascular tissues and plasma was determined using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, dual-labeling immunofluorescent staining, and immunoassays. Acute cardiac effects of ELA-32 and [Pyr
1
]apelin-13 were assessed by MRI and cardiac catheterization in anesthetized rats. Cardiopulmonary human and rat tissues from PAH patients and monocrotaline- and Sugen/hypoxia-exposed rats were used to show changes in ELA expression in PAH. The effect of ELA treatment on cardiopulmonary remodeling in PAH was investigated in the monocrotaline rat model.

Results:

ELA competed for binding of apelin in human heart with overlap for the 2 peptides indicated by
in silico
modeling. ELA activated G-protein– and β-arrestin–dependent pathways. We detected ELA expression in human vascular endothelium and plasma. Comparable to apelin, ELA increased cardiac contractility, ejection fraction, and cardiac output and elicited vasodilatation in rat in vivo. ELA expression was reduced in cardiopulmonary tissues from PAH patients and PAH rat models, respectively. ELA treatment significantly attenuated elevation of right ventricular systolic pressure and right ventricular hypertrophy and pulmonary vascular remodeling in monocrotaline-exposed rats.

Conclusions:

These results show that ELA is an endogenous agonist of the human apelin receptor, exhibits a cardiovascular profile comparable to apelin, and is downregulated in human disease and rodent PAH models, and exogenous peptide can reduce the severity of cardiopulmonary remodeling and function in PAH in rats. This study provides additional proof of principle that an apelin receptor agonist may be of therapeutic use in PAH in humans.
Alkaline Phosphatase Inhibitors Attenuate Renovascular Responses to Norepinephrine
Authors: Jackson Edwin K. , Zhang Yumeng , Cheng Dongmei
Published: January 2017

Tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) contributes to the production of adenosine by the kidney, and A
1
-receptor activation enhances renovascular responses to norepinephrine. Therefore, we hypothesized that TNAP regulates renovascular responsiveness to norepinephrine. In isolated, perfused rat kidneys, the TNAP inhibitor
l
-p-bromotetramisole (0.1 mmol/L) decreased renal venous levels of 5′-AMP (adenosine precursor) and adenosine by 61% (
P
<0.0384) and 62% (
P
=0.0013), respectively, at 1 hour into treatment and caused a 10-fold rightward shift of the concentration–response relationship to exogenous norepinephrine (
P
<0.0001). Similarly, 2 other TNAP inhibitors, levamisole (1 mmol/L) and 2,5-dimethoxy-N-(quinolin-3-yl)benzenesulfonamide (0.02 mmol/L), also right shifted the concentration–response relationship to norepinephrine. The ability of TNAP inhibition to blunt renovascular responses to norepinephrine was mostly prevented or reversed by restoring A
1
-adenosinergic tone with the A
1
-receptor agonist 2-chloro-N
6
-cyclopentyladenosine (100 nmol/L). All 3 TNAP inhibitors also attenuated renovascular responses to renal sympathetic nerve stimulation, suggesting that TNAP inhibition attenuates renovascular responses to endogenous norepinephrine. In control propranolol-pretreated rats, acute infusions of norepinephrine (10 μg/kg/min) increased mean arterial blood pressure from 95±5 mm Hg to a peak of 169±4 mm Hg and renovascular resistance from 12±2 mm Hg/mL/min to a peak of 55±12 mm Hg/mL/min; however, in rats also treated with intravenous
l
-p-bromotetramisole (30 mg/kg), the pressor and renovascular effects of norepinephrine were significantly attenuated (blood pressure: basal and peak, 93±7 and 146±6 mm Hg, respectively; renovascular resistance: basal and peak, 13±2 and 29±5 mm Hg/mL/min, respectively). TNAP inhibitors attenuate renovascular and blood pressure responses to norepinephrine, suggesting that TNAP participates in the regulation of renal function and blood pressure.
Growth pattern and longevity of Parapenaeus fissuroides Crosnier, 1985 (Decapoda, Penaeidae) in Kagoshima Bay, southern Japan
Authors: Farhana Zannatul , Ohtomi Jun
Published: January 2017

Parapenaeus fissuroides Crosnier, 1985 is an emergent fisheries shrimp resource in the benthic community of Kagoshima Bay. The growth pattern and longevity of P. fissuroides were estimated from monthly length-frequency distributions. Carapace length (CL) ranged from 7.7-27.1 mm in males and 6.4-36.1 mm in females. Both males and females were recruited during late autumn and winter. Growth was best described by Pauly & Gaschütz’s growth equation as for males and for females. Females grew faster and reached larger sizes than males of the same age group. The life-span of P. fissuroides was estimated to be around 2 years for males and 2.5 years for females.
Streamflows over a West African Basin from the ALMIP2 Model Ensemble
Authors: Getirana Augusto , Boone Aaron , Peugeot Christophe ,   ALMIP2 Working Group
Published: January 2017

Comparing streamflow simulations against observations has become a straightforward way to evaluate a land surface model’s (LSM) ability in simulating water budget within a catchment. Using a mesoscale river routing scheme (RRS), this study evaluates simulated streamflows over the upper Ouémé River basin resulting from 14 LSMs within the framework of phase 2 of the African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Analysis (AMMA) Land Surface Model Intercomparison Project (ALMIP2). The ALMIP2 RRS (ARTS) has been used to route LSM outputs. ARTS is based on the nonlinear Muskingum–Cunge method and a simple deep water infiltration formulation representing water-table recharge as previously observed in that region. Simulations are performed for the 2005–08 period during which ground observations are largely available. Experiments are designed using different ground-based rainfall datasets derived from two interpolation methods: the Thiessen technique and a combined kriging–Lagrangian methodology. LSM-based total runoff (TR) averages vary from 0.07 to 1.97 mm day−1, while optimal TR was estimated as ~0.65 mm day−1. This highly affected the RRS parameterization and streamflow simulations. Optimal Nash–Sutcliffe coefficients for LSM-averaged streamflows varied from 0.66 to 0.92, depending on the gauge station. However, individual LSM performances show a wider range. A more detailed rainfall distribution provided by the kriging–Lagrangian methodology resulted in overall better streamflow simulations. The early runoff generation related to reduced infiltration rates during early rainfall events features as one of the main reasons for poor LSM performances.
Arithmetic Abilities in Children With Developmental Dyslexia: Performance on French ZAREKI-R Test
Authors: De Clercq-Quaegebeur Maryse , Casalis Séverine , Vilette Bruno , Lemaitre Marie-Pierre , Vallée Louis
Published: January 2017

A high comorbidity between reading and arithmetic disabilities has already been reported. The present study aims at identifying more precisely patterns of arithmetic performance in children with developmental dyslexia, defined with severe and specific criteria. By means of a standardized test of achievement in mathematics ( Calculation and Number Processing Assessment Battery for Children; von Aster & Dellatolas, 2006), we analyzed the arithmetic abilities of 47 French children with dyslexia attending 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. Of them, 40% displayed arithmetic deficits, mostly with regard to number transcoding and mental calculation. Their individual profiles of performance accounted for varying strengths and weaknesses in arithmetic abilities. Our findings showed the pathway for the development of arithmetic abilities in children with dyslexia is not unique. Our study contrasts with the hypotheses suggesting the mutual exclusiveness of the phonological representation deficit and the core number module deficit.
Paying Refugees to Leave
Authors: Gerver Mollie
Published: January 2017

States are increasingly paying refugees to repatriate, hoping to decrease the number of refugees residing within their borders. Drawing on in-depth interviews from East Africa and data from Israeli Labour Statistics, I provide a description of such payment schemes and consider whether they are morally permissible. In doing so, I address two types of cases. In the first type of case, governments pay refugees to repatriate to high-risk countries, never coercing them into returning. I argue that such payments are permissible if refugees’ choices are voluntary and if states allow refugees to return to the host country in the event of an emergency. I then describe cases where states detain refugees, and non-governmental organisations provide their own payments to refugees wishing to repatriate. In such cases, non-governmental organisations are only permitted to provide payments if the funds are sufficient to ensure post-return safety and if providing payments does not reinforce the government’s detention policy.
Comparison of Video and In‐person Free Flap Assessment following Head and Neck Free Tissue Transfer
Authors: Alemi A. Sean , Seth Rahul , Heaton Chase , Wang Steven J. , Knott P. Daniel
Published: January 2017

Objective

Compare the efficiency of remote telehealth flap assessments with traditional in‐person flap assessments.

Study Design

Observational study with retrospective review.

Setting

Tertiary academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

All patients undergoing head and neck free tissue transfer were included in the study. All patients whose surgery was performed at hospital A underwent an in‐person flap check overnight. Those at hospital B received a remote flap assessment. The primary outcome was total time spent performing the midnight flap assessment, including travel time. Data were gathered prospectively using an online survey.

Results

Sixty consecutive patients met inclusion criteria. On the night of the surgery, 31 had an in‐person flap check while 29 had a video telehealth flap check. There were no partial or total flap losses or take‐backs resulting from the flap checks. Mean (SD) times for in‐person and remote assessments were 34 (16) minutes (range, 10‐60 minutes) and 13 (8) minutes (range, 5‐35 minutes), respectively (P <. 001). House staff unanimously felt the remote telehealth system improved their quality of life without affecting their perception of the quality of the flap assessment (P =. 001).

Conclusion

Compared with in‐person flap assessments in this cohort, telehealth assessments allowed more efficient examination of free tissue reconstructions while yielding seemingly equivalent information. Therefore, remote telehealth flap checks may provide useful information supporting the use of high‐fidelity remote data‐streaming technology in the delivery of complex care to patients distant from their care provider.
A Young Lion, the Lizard King, and Erotic Politician
Authors: Majstorović Dunja
Published: January 2017

In the past 45 years since his death, Jim Morrison’s legacy, in the form of rebellious and antiestablishment reputation, numerous reprints of his photographs and the continued popularity of the Doors’ music, has elevated the singer from a 1960s sex symbol image to the status of a pop culture icon. This paper aims to trace the roots of his now mythical image by analyzing the components which have been identified as those that initiated its creation: his attractive physical appearance and the promotional material launched to enhance it, press articles that focused on his physique, his highly sexual and unpredictable live performances, and his verbal ingenuity shown in the interviews he gave with memorable catch phrases.
Women’s Participation in Electoral Politics in India
Authors: Rai Praveen
Published: January 2017

The recent participation levels of women in formal politics in India reveal two positives that augur well. First, the upsurge among women voters that started in the 1990s reached the highest female turnout ever, so far, in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. Second, women’s participation in high-voltage election campaigns during the 2014 general elections also showed a substantial increase. However, the continued under-representation of women in legislative bodies and within the rank and file of political parties offsets the momentous gains made in the people-driven feminisation of electoral politics in India.

Within a brief historical context identifying the beginnings of women’s electoral participation in India, the article presents a time series analysis of women’s voting patterns, showing that there have never been concerted efforts by political parties to mobilise female voters on any issue concerning women in either national or state level elections. Promises by political parties in their manifestos on gender issues remain clichéd and are conveniently forgotten after the hustings. India’s failure to pass the Women’s Reservation Bill is presented as the most telling testimony about lack of seriousness among political parties in taking better account of women’s increasing electoral participation.
Use of and microbial resistance to antibiotics in China: a path to reducing antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Cui Dan , Liu Xinliang , Hawkey Peter , Li Hao , Wang Quan , Mao Zongfu , Sun Jing
Published: January 2017

We analyzed China’s current use of and microbial resistance to antibiotics, and possible means of reducing antimicrobial resistance. Interventions like executive orders within clinical settings and educational approach with vertical approaches rather than an integrated strategy to curb the use of antimicrobials remain limited. An underlying problem is the system of incentives that has resulted in the intensification of inappropriate use by health professionals and patients. There is an urgent need to explore the relationship between financial and non-financial incentives for providers and patients, to eliminate inappropriate incentives. China’s national health reforms have created an opportunity to contain inappropriate use of antibiotics through more comprehensive and integrated strategies. Containment of microbial resistance may be achieved by strengthening surveillance at national, regional and hospital levels; eliminating detrimental incentives within the health system; and changing prescribing behaviors to a wider health systems approach, to achieve long-term, equitable and sustainable results and coordinate stakeholders’ actions through transparent sharing of information.
The Construction and Initial Validation of the Student Teachers’ Efficacy Scale for Teaching Students With Disabilities
Authors: Zhang Dake , Wang Qiu , Stegall Joanna , Losinki Mickey , Katsiyannis Antonis
Published: January 2017

Although there have been numerous instruments for assessing teacher efficacy in teaching general education students, there is a need to develop and validate an instrument that specifically assesses teachers’ efficacy in teaching students with disabilities. This study constructed and evaluated the psychometric properties of the Student Teachers’ Efficacy in Teaching Students With Disabilities (STETSD). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses with independent samples from two sites were conducted. A four-factor model best fit the data. A moderate positive correlation was found between the STETSD and an existing resource teacher efficacy survey; the STETSD also significantly predicted the student teachers’ intentions to pursue a career in teaching students with disabilities. Implications for practice are discussed regarding the assessment of teacher efficacy in specific subjects, the use of the STETSD, and STETSD’s cross-validation with in-service teachers.
Dwelling into Service Innovation Management Practices: A Comparison Between Telecommunication Industry in Malaysia and Bangladesh
Authors: Taghizadeh Seyedeh Khadijeh , Rahman Syed Abidur , Halim Hasliza Abdul , Ahmad Noor Hazlina
Published: January 2017

In the multifaceted as well as vibrant telecommunications industry, service innovation management is a relatively new paradigm, which has attracted the attention of scholars and practitioners. Thus, this study embarks on to compare the practices of service innovation management between Malaysia and Bangladesh telecommunications industry. The strategy, process, organization, tool/technology and system (SPOTS) model with 26 indicators was employed to compare the management practices among these two countries. A total of 176 managers (98 from Malaysia and 78 from Bangladesh) participated in this research through survey questionnaires. An independent-samples t-test was conducted to compare the 26 indictors on management practices for Malaysian and Bangladesh telecommunications industry. The findings indicated that the management practices were operationalized differently in these two countries. Bangladesh put more emphasis on each of the innovation management practices when compared to Malaysia. It indicates that innovation management is practiced more in the country where the market is in the process of development. The results enable the firms to better compete in an environment which requires innovative changes and global discipline. In fact, the findings provide guidelines for the service sectors in both countries in terms of implementation of innovative enterprises, especially in Bangladesh where innovation is the basis for survival.
Contested Spaces and Resultant Conflicts
Authors: Dandekar Ajay , Sreedeep
Published: January 2017

Addressing the issue of agrarian crisis in India in general, the article explores the particularities of the distress emphasising some of the crucial aspects of burden of indebtedness that often leads to farmers’ suicide. Following a narrative approach, it analyses the relationship between some of the shocking figures related to agriculture at large and some of the astounding field observations related to rising input prices, uncompetitive minimum support prices (MSPs), faulty cropping pattern, nature of indebtedness and lack of sufficient state support for the farmers.
The social relevance and social impact of knowledge and knowing
Authors: Scaratti Giuseppe , Galuppo Laura , Gorli Mara , Gozzoli Caterina , Ripamonti Silvio
Published: January 2017

In recent years, there has been a growing concern around the connection between theory and practice, rigour and relevance, theoretical consistency and impact. This Special Issue links with the literature on the co-production of knowledge and aims to extend the debate to the concept and practice of social value and social relevance, and their impact on different ways of knowing, researching and learning in organizations and in complex contexts and systems.
Travel and quality of life
Authors: Backer Elisa , Weiler Betty
Published: January 2017

Recently, there has been increasing scholarly interest in the relationship between tourism and quality of life (QOL). While the concept of QOL is contestable, a number of studies have revealed that travel can increase an individual’s perceived and actual QOL. To date, the focus has been on vacation travel, highlighting that travel primarily for the purpose of rest or recreation, whether to a holiday destination or touring, is a component of many people’s perceived QOL, and in some cases is a critical component. However, these more expensive forms of vacation travel are less accessible to those classified as socio-economically disadvantaged. Many such individuals can and do visit friends and relatives (VFR), suggesting that VFR may be a critical means by which socio-economically disadvantaged people can travel for pleasure and thereby maintain or improve their QOL. The article suggests a number of potential strategies based on the 8 Ps of the marketing mix, and these in turn inform avenues for future research.
Residential staff responses to adolescent self-harm: The helpful and unhelpful
Authors: Johnson Dan R , Ferguson Kirstin , Copley Jennifer
Published: January 2017

Adolescent self-harm is prevalent in residential and secure care and is the cause of distress to those harming themselves, to the staff caring for them and for other young people living with them. This article sought service user views on what staff supports were effective and what were counter-productive in order to improve the care offered to young people. Seven young people living in residential or secure care were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to elicit key themes. Global themes of safety and care were elicited. The young people understood and accepted that the role of staff was to provide these. Within these themes, they noted numerous responses that had both helpful and unhelpful effects, including increased observation, removal of means and extra collaborative support. Service users made numerous recommendations to increase the helpful effects of staff support. Young people provided informed and helpful guidance on how best to care for them. Their views can help mental health professionals and care staff increase their helpful responses making them more effective and less counter-productive. This study is a rare representation of the views of young people in residential and secure care and how to respond to their self-harm behaviour.
The Broadcasting Demand for the Spanish National Soccer Team
Authors: Artero Isabel , Bandrés Eduardo
Published: January 2017

This article analyzes the broadcasting demand in Spain for the Spanish national soccer team. The variability in audience figures suggests supplementing the ordinary least squares estimation with quantile regressions to understand the effect of the explanatory variables across the conditioned distribution of television audiences. The results show that variables associated with the sporting relevance of each game and the reputation of the opponent are significant, while consumer habits have little influence and uncertainty of outcome is not significant. The different degrees of influence of the variables across all quantiles confirm the heterogeneous nature of demand.
Knowledge of Prostate Cancer and Screening Among Young Multiethnic Black Men
Authors: Ogunsanya Motolani E. , Brown Carolyn M. , Odedina Folakemi T. , Barner Jamie C. , Adedipe Taiwo B. , Corbell Brittany
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge of prostate cancer and screening and its associated factors in young Black men aged 18 to 40 years. This was a cross-sectional study conducted in a convenience sample of 267 young Black men in Austin, Texas. Knowledge about prostate cancer and screening was operationalized through 14 items, including 12 items from the Knowledge about Prostate Cancer Screening Questionnaire (PC knowledge), and two items assessing dietary knowledge and prostate cancer screening controversy. PC knowledge scores were regressed on age, cues to action, health screening experience, and demographic/personal factors. Most participants were African American men of American origin (65.3%) and were college freshmen (18.9%). PC knowledge scores were low, with mean correct responses of 28.5%, mean knowledge score of 5.25 ± 3.81 (possible score range of 0 to 14, with higher scores indicating higher PC knowledge) and a median score of 5.00. On average, 47% of the respondents replied “Don’t Know” to the questions. Overall, PC knowledge scores were low among these young Black men, especially in domains related to risk factors, screening age guidelines, limitations, and diet. It is thus important that these men be educated more on these important domains of prostate cancer and screening so that the decision to screen or not will be an informed one. Health screening experience, residence area, major field of study, and academic classification were significant predictors of knowledge.
A randomized trial of heart failure disease management in skilled nursing facilities (SNF Connect): Lessons learned
Authors: Daddato Andrea , Wald Heidi L , Horney Carolyn , Fairclough Diane L , Leister Erin C , Coors Marilyn , Capell Warren H , Boxer Rebecca S
Published: January 2017

Background/Aims:

Conducting clinical trials in skilled nursing facilities is particularly challenging. This manuscript describes facility and patient recruitment challenges and solutions for clinical research in skilled nursing facilities.

Methods:

Lessons learned from the SNF Connect Trial, a randomized trial of a heart failure disease management versus usual care for patients with heart failure receiving post-acute care in skilled nursing facilities, are discussed. Description of the trial design and barriers to facility and patient recruitment along with regulatory issues are presented.

Results:

The recruitment of Denver-metro skilled nursing facilities was facilitated by key stakeholders of the skilled nursing facilities community. However, there were still a number of barriers to facility recruitment including leadership turnover, varying policies regarding research, fear of litigation and of an increased workload. Engagement of facilities was facilitated by their strong interest in reducing hospital readmissions, marketing potential to hospitals, and heart failure management education for their staff. Recruitment of patients proved difficult and there were few facilitators. Identified patient recruitment challenges included patients being unaware of their heart failure diagnosis, patients overwhelmed with their illness and care, and frequently there was no available proxy for cognitively impaired patients. Flexibility in changing the recruitment approach and targeting skilled nursing facilities with higher rates of admissions helped to overcome some barriers.

Conclusion:

Recruitment of skilled nursing facilities and patients in skilled nursing facilities for clinical trials is challenging. Strategies to attract both facilities and patients are warranted. These include aligning study goals with facility incentives and flexible recruitment protocols to work with patients in “transition crisis.”
The utility of using a hand clerking sheet for initial assessment of hand-related injuries
Authors: Ding Benjamin T K , Rajaratnam Vaikunthan
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

Our study aims to develop and evaluate the practicality, clinical merit, and usefulness of a hand clerking sheet for use in a clinical orthopedic surgical unit. We hypothesize that the cause and extent of damage to anatomical structures will be more accurately documented in concordance with intraoperative findings when evaluated with the clerking sheet.

Materials and method:

All patients admitted to a tertiary care institute for hand-related injuries requiring acute surgical intervention within a 1-year period were evaluated. Assessments made preoperatively without the clerking sheet were evaluated retrospectively. Data concerning cause and extent of damage to anatomical structures were recorded using the hand clerking sheet for all newly admitted cases. The number of injuries documented prior to surgery and intraoperatively was compared.

Results:

Patients who were assessed without the use of a clerking sheet had their injuries diagnosed with 61% accuracy (96/157), while patients who were assessed with the use of a clerking sheet were diagnosed with 91% accuracy (146/160). Overall, injuries evaluated with the clerking sheet were more accurate than without the aid of the clerking sheet 91% versus 61% ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The high level of concurrence supports the view that patients admitted for hand-related injuries that were assessed with the aid of a hand clerking sheet or hand chart were diagnosed more accurately.
Postoperative Rehabilitation After Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Mollison Scott , Shin Jason J. , Glogau Alexander , Beavis R. Cole
Published: January 2017

Background:

Postoperative rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) remains controversial and suffers from limited high-quality evidence. Therefore, appropriate use criteria must partially depend on expert opinion.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to determine and report on the standard and modified rehabilitation protocols after ARCR used by member orthopaedic surgeons of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) and the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA). We hypothesized that there will exist a high degree of variability among rehabilitation protocols. We also predict that surgeons will be prescribing accelerated rehabilitation.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A 29-question survey in English language was sent to all 3106 associate and active members of the AOSSM and the AANA. The questionnaire consisted of 4 categories: standard postoperative protocol, modification to postoperative rehabilitation, operative technique, and surgeon demographic data. Via email, the survey was sent on September 4, 2013.

Results:

The average response rate per question was 22.7%, representing an average of 704 total responses per question. The most common immobilization device was an abduction pillow sling with the arm in neutral or slight internal rotation (70%). Surgeons tended toward later unrestricted passive shoulder range of motion at 6 to 7 weeks (35%). Strengthening exercises were most commonly prescribed between 6 weeks and 3 months (56%). Unrestricted return to activities was most commonly allowed at 5 to 6 months. The majority of the respondents agreed that they would change their protocol based on differences expressed in this survey.

Conclusion:

There is tremendous variability in postoperative rehabilitation protocols after ARCR. Five of 10 questions regarding standard rehabilitation reached a consensus statement. Contrary to our hypothesis, there was a trend toward later mobilization.
Unstable osteoarthritis genu varum. Our experience
Authors: Jalil Andrés M. , Ferreyra Cristian A. , Balla Mauricio , Castellán Fabián J. , Mancini Pablo S.
Published: January 2017

Background:

The natural evolution of chronic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) failure is the progressive deterioration of articular cartilage of the knee, which consequences are the arthrosis and the secondary misalignment. This is an increasingly common in middle-aged patients (30-50 years). Also, these patients are demanding reinstatement expectation of sporting activity, claiming that refund promptly and at the same level prior to the injury.

Objectives:

Communicate the experience in our service, of treatment implement in young adults patients with misalignment., osteoarthritis and instability anteroposterior; describe the algorithm used and technique surgical. Study desing: Case study series; level of evidence 3.

Methods:

Series case study, retrospective. There were 15 valgus osteotomies additive of tibia with plastic ligaments of anterior cruciate ligament (in a same time surgical) in the period between 2014 and 2015.

Results:

Average monitoring of 8 months. The following parameters were evaluated pre and postoperative: pain (EVA 3.06 / 0.8), instability (Lachman 1.4 / 0.6), Score of Lysholm (83.9 / 108/5), thigh circumference (-0.13 cm / -1.86 cm) and range of motion (flexion and extension).

Conclusion:

The instability on knees with misalignment, increases progression of osteoarthritis. The presence of pain, misalignment and instability, will guide the therapeutic indication. If we make an indicated process (osteotomy and ACL) in the indicated time and in the indicated patient, we can get as excellent results like in our series, delaying the natural progression of the arthrosis. In this way, we increase the expectations of return to practice recreational sports of our patients.
Posteromedial Corner Reconstruction
Authors: Ferrer Gonzalo , Leon Agustín , Wirth Hans , Mena Adolfo , Tuca María José , Espinoza Gonzalo
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Report the experience, after 1-year follow-up, of 30 patients who underwent anatomical knee reconstruction of posteromedial corner (PMC) injuries, using La Prade´s Technique.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study of 30 consecutive patients with PMC injuries operated between November 2010 and May 2014 by the same surgical team. Inclusion criteria: patients with clinical presentation and images (stress radiographs and MRI) compatible with PMC injury, who maintained a grade III chronic instability in spite of at least 3 months of orthopedic treatment, who were reconstructed using La Prade’s anatomical technique, and completed at least 12 months of follow-up. Exclusion criteria: discordance between clinical and image studies, grade I or II medial instability, and surgery performed through a different technique. Data was collected by reviewing the electronic files and images. Functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm) were applied and registered in the preoperative evaluation, and then 6 and 12 months after surgery.

Results:

Thirty patients (28 men and 2 women) met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 43 years (24-69). The vast majority (28 patients) had a high-energy mechanism of injury. Twenty patients were diagnosed in the acute setting, while 10 had a delayed diagnosis after poor results of concomitant ligament reconstructions. With the exception of 2 patients, who presented with isolated PMC injury, the majority had associated injuries as detailed: 11 cases had PMC + anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, 3 patients had PMC + posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury, 3 patients had PMC + meniscal tears, 9 patients had PMC + ACL + PCL injuries, and there were 2 cases of PMC + ACL + PCL + lateral collateral ligament injuries. Mean time for PMC reconstruction surgery was 5 months (range 2-32). Lysholm and IKDC scores were 18,2 (2-69) and 24,3 (9,2-52,9) respectively in the preoperative setting, improving to 76,7 (44-94) and 70,7 (36,8-95,4) after 1-year follow-up. At the end of follow-up, average ROM was 113º (90-140) the majority (24 patients) had type A IKDC stability, and the remaining 6 patients type D IKDC stability.

Conclusion:

Acceptable results were achieved following reconstruction of PMC injuries in patients with chronic posteromedial knee instability. Improvement in stability and functional scores were observed in all the patients of this cohort after surgery.
Modified Transtibial versus Anteromedial Portal Technique in Single Bundle ACL Reconstruction
Authors: Salinas Emiliano Alvarez , Etcheto Horacio Rivarola , Blanchod Cristian Collazo , Escobar Gonzalo , Zordan Jesuan , Autorino Carlos María
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to determine whether it is possible to achieves a similar anatomical placement of the femoral tunnel with a modified transtibial ACL single bundle reconstruction tecnique compared to anteromedial transportal technique. Results were evaluated by tomographic comparisons between patients from both groups.

Methods:

36 patients (36 knees) who were candidates for an ACL single bundle reconstruction with patellar bone graft were included in the study. Patients were randomly allocated using a computerized sequence into two groups. 18 patients were assigned each group (modified transtibial vs AM transportal technique). Surgery was performed by the same surgical team in both groups. Femoral tunnel quadrant placement, oblicuity in the coronal and sagittal planes and diameter of the femoral tunnel were assesed tomographically blinded by two observers and statistical comparison between groups was realized.

Results:

Average distance measured from posterior edge of the condyle to the femoral tunnel ( measured as a proportion respect to the T line) was similar in both groups ( Group I : 32.7 % +- 5.1% ; Group 2: 32.4 % +-4.4% , p = 0.85). Average distance measured from the Blumensaat line to the femoral tunnel (measured as a proportion respect to the H line) was similar in both groups ( Group I: 28.5% 4.49 % Group II , 31.5% of 4.83% p = 0.06). Average angulation values of the femoral tunnel in the coronal plane were lower in Group I than in Group II (Group I = 34.8 ° range 32.7 ° - 38.6 ° and 41.2 ° range Group II 36.7 ° - 43.1 ° P = 0.0016 ). Average angulation values of the femoral tunnel in the sagittal plane were similar in both groups (Group I 40.2 ° range 38.4 ° - 43.4 ° ; Group II 38 1 ° range 36.6 ° - 40.2 ° p = 0.17).. The average diameter of the femoral tunnel was significantly higher in group I than in Group II (Group I 11 mm 0.84 mm and 10.2 mm Group II 0.65mm p = 0.007) .

Conclusion:

The modified transtibial technique for single bundle ACL reconstruction has proved to be suitable to reproduce the anatomic placement of the femoral tunnel compared to the transportal AM technique.
Autologous Collagen-Induced Chondrogenesis Technique for Knee Chondral Lesions
Authors: Costa-Paz Matias , Zicaro Juan Pablo , Yacuzzi Carlos
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate a series of patients with osteochondral lesions who underwent a microfractures treatment and autologous collagen-induced chondrogenesis technique (ACIC).

Methods:

Microfracture treatment and ACIC was performed in eight patients with grade IV cartilage lesion of more than 3 cm2 long. Two patients were discarded due to short follow-up. Four women and two men were evaluated with 50 year-old mean age. The average follow-up was 12.5 months. An associated valgus osteotomy was performed in two patients. Patients were evaluated using the Lysholm score and IKDC. Radiographs were evaluated and a Magnetic Resonance (MRI) was performed in 3 patients.

Results:

Six patients were evaluated with a 1 B, 2 C and 3 D arthrosis grade according to IKDC classification. Atelocollagen was placed in the medial femoral condyle in four patients (2 associated to tibial valgus osteotomy), in the trochlea in one patient and in both in one patient. Pre and post operative average score IKDC was 38/58 and Lysholm 34/89. One case of postoperative artrofibrosis was registered which was mobilized under anesthesia with satisfactory results. The MRI showed signal with coverage of the chondral defect in more than 70%. There were no cases of infection or reactive synovitis.

Conclusion:

Atelocollagen combined with microfractures improved the clinical conditions in patients with articular cartilage lesions of the knee. It is necessary more patients and longer follow-up to verify this data.
Giant cell tumor in adipose package Hoffa
Authors: Etcheto H. Rivarola , Escobar G. , Blanchod C. Collazo , Palanconi M. , Zordan J. , Salinas E. Alvarez , Autorino₁ Carlos
Published: January 2017

Tumors of adipose Hoffa package are very uncommon, with isolated cases reported in the literature. His presentation in pediatric patients knee is exceptional. The most frequently described tumors are benign including vellonodular synovitis. The extra-articular localized variant there of is known as giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath. It is characterized by locally aggressive nature, and has been described in reports of isolated cases.

Objective:

A case of giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath in adipose presentation package Hoffa in pediatric patients is presented in this paper.

Methods:

male patient eleven years with right knee pain after sports practice was evaluated. Physical examination, showed limited extension -30º, joint effusion, stable negative Lachman maneuver without peripheral knee laxity. MRI hyperintense on tumor is observed in T2 and hypointense on T1 homogeneous and defined edges content displayed prior to LCA related to adipose Hoffa package.

Results:

The tumor specimen was obtained and histopathology is defined as densely cellular tissue accumulation of xantomisados fibrocollagenous with histiocytes and multinucleated giant cells, compatible with giant cell tumor of tendon sheath.

Conclusion:

The presentation of giant cell tumors of the tendon sheath in Hoffa fat pad is exceptional. However, his suspicion allows adequate preoperative surgical planning, as a whole resection is the only procedure that has been shown to decrease the rate of recurrence of this disease.