bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Otolaryngology utilization of speech‐language pathology services for voice disorders
Authors: Cohen Seth M. , Dinan Michaela A. , Kim Jaewhan , Roy Nelson
Published: August 2015

Objectives/Hypothesis

To examine the utilization of speech‐language pathology (SLP) services by otolaryngology for outpatients with laryngeal/voice disorders.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of a large, national, administrative US claims database.

Methods

The study population included patients with a laryngeal/voice disorder based on International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification codes from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2008, seen by an otolaryngologist as an outpatient, and 12 months of follow‐up. Data were collected on SLP evaluation and treatment and patient factors including age, gender, geographic region, employment status, initial laryngeal diagnosis, and laryngeal diagnosis change over 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to investigate factors associated with receipt of SLP evaluation and treatment.

Results

There were 91,898 unique patients who met study criteria. A total of 4,485 (4.9%) patients had an SLP evaluation, of whom 2,216 (49.4%) had at least one voice therapy session. Patient age, gender, geographic region, and laryngeal diagnosis were associated with increased likelihood of receiving SLP services. Patients whose final laryngeal diagnosis changed from their initial diagnosis had greater odds of having an SLP evaluation (odds ratio = 1.18, 95% confidence interval = 1.06‐1.31) compared to patients without laryngeal diagnosis change.

Conclusions

SLP evaluation and treatment occurred in a minority of laryngeal/voice‐disordered patients. Further study is needed to assess the impact of SLP services on the healthcare utilization of patients with laryngeal/voice disorders.

Level of Evidence

2C. Laryngoscope, 126:906–912, 2016
Collapse Transition of Branched Polymers in Dilute Solutions: Telechelic Star vs. H‐Polymer
Authors: Dasmahapatra Ashok Kumar , Reddy G. Diwakar , Sanka Venkata Mahanth
Published: August 2015

Self‐assembly in polymeric material is facilitated by the presence of active hetero‐atoms either along the backbone or as pendant groups. Self‐assembly leads to a rich variety of morphological pattern influencing various properties of polymeric materials. Presence of branching along the backbone chain also imparts remarkable change in polymeric properties. We report dynamic Monte Carlo (DMC) simulation study on solution behavior of branched polymers. We take multi‐arm telechelic star polymers (TSP, one branch point with terminal active groups) and H‐shaped branched polymers (homopolymers with two branch points), elucidating the driving mechanisms of collapse transition and morphological development. The presence of terminal active groups in TSP drives the collapse transition producing segregated and compact globule structure, on deteriorating solvent quality. On the other hand, presence of two branch points in H‐shaped polymers incorporates conformational heterogeneity (viz., entropically originated) and produces segregated globule structures. The terminal functional groups in TSP form aggregate, resembles to “watermelons” (WM) and double watermelon (DWM) depending on the number of arms and mode of cooling. In H‐polymers, conformational heterogeneity leads to the formation of segregated backbone and branch units (resembles to “Sandwich” or “Janus” morphology) rather an evenly distributed structure consisting of all the units, accompanying with a larger size of branches compared to the backbone.
Characteristics and Osteoconductivity of Bone Composite Scaffolds Made of Thai Silk Fibroin, Gelatin and Inorganic Compounds: A Comparative Study of β‐Tricalcium Phosphate and Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Dararutana Chotika , Ratanavaraporn Juthamas , Honsawek Sittisak , Kanokpanont Sorada , Damrongsakkul Siriporn
Published: August 2015

We developed the composite scaffolds made of Thai silk fibroin, gelatin, and inorganic compounds e.g. β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HA). The organic component of Thai silk fibroin/gelatin (50/50) was mixed with the inorganic β ‐TCP or HA at different mixing ratios. It was found that all scaffolds possessed porous structure with uniform distribution of β‐TCP and HA (pore size ∼56–150 μm, porosity ∼87–94%). The Thai silk fibroin/gelatin scaffolds incorporating β‐TCP or HA showed higher compressive modulus but lower water absorption ability than the pure protein scaffolds. Human periosteum‐derived stem cells were isolated and cultured in the scaffold under osteogenic differentiation induction. The cells showed the greater ability of osteogenic differentiation when cultured in the Thai silk fibroin/gelatin scaffolds incorporating β‐TCP, comparing with those of the pure protein scaffolds and the scaffolds incorporating HA, as confirmed by alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium production. The scaffolds incorporating β‐TCP also supported cell spreading and deposition of calcium phosphate nodules. The promoted osteogenic differentiation of human periosteum‐derived stem cells could be explained by the bioresorbable property and the high osteoinductive potential of β‐TCP itself. Therefore, the Thai silk fibroin/gelatin (50/50) scaffolds incorporating β‐TCP would be novel candidates for bone tissue engineering applications.
Adhesion Improvement via Surface Functionalization of Epoxy‐Resin Base Post by Low Temperature Plasma
Authors: Rakitikul Waleepan , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Yavirach Piriya , Boonyawan Dheerawan , Nimmanpipug Piyarat
Published: August 2015

The adhesion between dental materials could be improved by an increase of interfacial polarity. In this study, low temperature plasma was used to treat an epoxy‐based post. The surface modifications after treatment were characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) which showed the existence of N, O‐ containing groups in the epoxy‐based post. Furthermore, functionalization positions were proposed by Quantum Mechanic (QM) calculation. It could confirm the position that such a functional group was formed at hydroxyl group and alpha‐carbon with an energy level around 93–97 kcal/mol through hydrogen abstraction reaction. Both experiments and calculations show consistent results indicating polar group formation on the surface after plasma treatments.
Study on Triclosan/Cyclodextrin Inclusion Complex for Natural Rubber Antibacterial Agent
Authors: Srithongkham Saniwan , Sokhuma Wipawee , Udomkusonsri Pareeya , Lertworasirikul Amornrat
Published: August 2015

This research aims to prepare antibacterial rubber from a natural rubber (NR) composite. Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4 · 2H2O, CS), or gypsum, has been used as a non‐reinforced filler for NR due to its low cost, abundant availability and non‐toxicity. However, the dihydrate form cannot disperse well in the natural rubber matrix. In this study, the CS was converted to calcium sulfate anhydrite (AII) form by heat treatment. An antibacterial agent imparted antibacterial properties to the natural rubber composite. β‐cyclodextrin / Triclosan inclusion complex (β‐CD/TR IC) was prepared in this research and applied as antibacterial agent for natural rubber composite. The β‐CD/TR IC prevents loss of the antibacterial agent during rubber processing. The natural rubber‐filled calcium sulfate anhydrite composite (NR‐AII) mixed with β‐CD/TR IC clearly showed antibacterial activity against E. coli at β‐CD/TR IC content of 6 phr and S. aureus at β‐CD/TR IC content of 3 phr.
Microencapsulation of a Palm Oil‐based Alkyd by Amino Resins
Authors: Shahabudin Nurshafiza , Yahya Rosiyah , Gan Seng Neon
Published: August 2015

Preparation of microcapsules of poly(urea‐formaldehyde) (PUF) and melamine‐modified PUF (PUMF) shells that encapsulated a core of palm oil‐based alkyd resin was described. Ethylene maleic anhydride (EMA) was used as emulsifier. The effects of core‐shell weight ratio on microcapsules size and surface morphology were studied. The microcapsules obtained were inspected using digital microscope and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) to study the formation of microcapsules and their surface morphology. The core and shell content was verified using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and attentuated total reflectance fourier‐transformed infrared (ATR‐FTIR). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shown that the microcapsules have different degradation rates of core and shell thus reconfirmed the formation of microcapsules. The resultant microcapsules appear as white‐yellowish and free‐flowing spherical particles, having a rough, non‐porous shell which was formed by PUF and PUMF nanoparticles. The microcapsules have their diameters ranging from 150–500 microns, and they contain 87–90% of the alkyd as core and 10–13% of shell by weight.
Preparation and Characterization of Cellulose Nanofibers from Cassava Pulp
Authors: Ruangudomsakul Watcharin , Ruksakulpiwat Chaiwat , Ruksakulpiwat Yupaporn
Published: August 2015

In this study, cassava pulp (CP) was used to prepare cellulose nanofibers. CP was treated with sodium hydroxide and then bleached by sodium chlorite solution in acetate buffer solution. Finally, acid hydrolysis treatment was conducted by using two different acid type (H2SO4 and HCl). The morphological structure of the ensuing fibers was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM images showed diameter and length of cellulose nanofibers obtained from sulphuric acid treatment in the range of 8‐15 nm and 200‐800 nm, respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed the progressive removal of non‐cellulosic constituents. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) revealed an increase in crystallinity of the nanofibers after successive treatments. The thermal properties of cassava pulp and cellulose nanofibers were also investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Cellulose nanofibers showed higher thermal stability than cassava pulp.
Physical Properties of Poly(lactic acid)/Hydroxyl Terminated Natural Rubber Blends
Authors: Srisuwan Sawitri , Ruksakulpiwat Yupaporn , Chumsamrong Pranee
Published: August 2015

The objective of the study is to use hydroxyl‐terminated natural rubber (HTNR) as the toughening modifier for poly(lactic acid) (PLA). Photochemical degradation of natural rubber by ultraviolet radiation from high pressure mercury vapor lamp was used as depolymerization and hydroxylation of natural rubber. Molecular weight of HTNR was 25,000 () and estimation of hydroxyl number of HTNR according to ASTM D4274‐11 was 2.04 mg KOH/g. The present of hydroxyl group was confirmed by FT‐IR,1H‐NMR and13C‐NMR spectrum. HTNR was blended with PLA in the ratio of 100/0, 100/3, 100/5, 100/10, and 100/15. Tensile and impact tests were carried out according to ASTM D638 and D256 respectively. It was found that tensile strength and tensile modulus of the PLA/HTNR blends were not significantly decreased whereas elongations at break were increased up to about 9 times compared with neat PLA. For impact properties, the results showed that impact strength of PLA was significantly increased up to 4 times with an addition of 10 wt% HTNR. SEM micrographs of the blends showed well disperse of HTNR particles and the occurrence of ductile fracture.
Effect of Modified Silica Particles with Phenyltriethoxysilane on Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Natural Rubber Composites
Authors: Tunlert Apinya , Prasassarakich Pattarapan , Poompradub Sirilux
Published: August 2015

The modification of silica surface by phenyltriethoxysilane (PhTES) as a modifying agent was carried out by sol‐gel reaction of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as a precursor of silica. The condition to modify silica particles was the use of the mole ratio of TEOS to PhTES of 1:0.4 and ammonia as a catalyst at ambient temperature for 24 h. The characterization of modified silica surface was investigated by a fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and contact angle measurement. The modified silica particles were in a spherical shape, which was confirmed by a scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties and thermal stability of modified silica particles filled NR vulcanizates were greatly improved compared to those of unfilled NR vulcanizates due to the reinforcing effect and the high thermal oxidative stability of modified silica particles, respectively.
Morphology and Properties of Acrylonitrile‐Butadiene‐Styrene/ZnO Nanocomposites with Compatibilizer
Authors: Wacharawichanant Sirirat , Noichin Lalitwadee , Bannarak Sutharat , Thongyai Supakanok
Published: August 2015

This work investigated the effects of polystyrene‐co‐maleic anhydride (SMA) compatibilizer on morphology and properties of acrylonitrile‐butadiene‐styrene (ABS)/zinc oxide (ZnO) nanocomposites. The ABS/ZnO nanocomposites were prepared by using an internal mixer and were then molded by compression method. In order to improve adhesion between the filler and the matrix, SMA has been used as compatibilizer in the nanocomposites. ABS/ZnO nanocomposites showed the storage modulus increased with increasing ZnO content and showed a maximum at 3 wt%. The addition of SMA improved Young's modulus and stiffness of ABS/ZnO nanocomposites at low ZnO content. While the impact strength and tensile strength of ABS/ZnO nanocomposites before and after adding SMA decreased with increasing of ZnO loading. The glass transition temperatures were not significantly changed when both ZnO and SMA were incorporated. The dielectric constant of ABS/ZnO nanocomposites before adding SMA increased in a range of 1–5 wt% of ZnO. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation showed the better dispersion and compatibility of ZnO particles in ABS/ZnO nanocomposites with the addition of SMA.
Optical Clarity, Crystallinity and Morphology of Ternary Blended Films of Poly(l‐lactide)/Polycaprolactone/Thermoplastic Polyurethane: Effect of Molecular Weight
Authors: Ross Sukunya , Mahasaranon Sararat , Ross Gareth M.
Published: August 2015

Novel ternary blends based on poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) together with polycaprolactone (PCL) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) were fabricated using a solvent meditated technique called the rapid screening method. The blends were solvent cast as films and then the optical clarity was studied with the results presented in the form of ternary phase diagrams. Also investigated was the crystallinity and phase morphology of the blends along with analysis of the Coleman‐Painter miscibility approach, in order to help select and understand the polymer pair interactions. The results showed that the transitions in the optical phase boundaries in PLLA/PCL blends were strongly influenced by TPU. The boundaries were also significantly dependant on the molecular weight of the PLLA and PCL selected. Higher molecular weight polymers increased the optical clarity of the blends, while low molecular weight had a higher propensity to crystallize which was a major cause of loss in transparency. This work shows that these blends have potential in the film packaging industry where good optical clarity is a critical performance criterion.
Mechanical Improvement of Poly(butylene succinate) with Polyamide Short Fibers
Authors: Hongsriphan Nattakarn , Muangrak Witsarut , Soonthornvacharin Kanruthai , Tulaphol Thanchanok
Published: August 2015

This research prepared polymer blend between poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) and polyamide‐6 (PA‐6) short fibers using solid‐melt mixing method. Temperature profile of a twin‐screw extruder was set in a fashion that only PBS was melted during the blending. Effect of short fiber content (3, 5, and 7 wt%) on mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of PBS/PA‐6 fiber blends were investigated. It is found that increasing PA‐6 fiber content increased tensile modulus and impact strength of the blend but decreased tensile strength. Filling with PA‐6 fibers did not reduce elongation at break of PBS matrix, which a blend of 7 wt% fibers interestingly showed higher elongation at break than neat PBS. SEM images revealed that crinkled PA‐6 fibers were embedded in the PBS matrix showing good adhesion between PBS matrix and PA‐6 fibers. From DSC results, it showed that PA‐6 fibers acted as nucleating agent for PBS molecules to crystalline faster; however, the degree of crystallinity was reduced compared to neat PBS. Adding PA‐6 fibers did not affect thermal stability of PBS as seen in TGA results under oxygen atmosphere.
Preparation and Characterization of Succinyl‐Chitosan Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Monsalve Yuliana , Sierra Ligia , López Betty L.
Published: August 2015

Succinyl‐Chitosan (SCS), a water soluble CS derivative, exhibits biocompatibility, low toxicity and long‐term retention in the body. SCS offers unique characteristics as polymer for obtaining drug delivery nanosystems, due to its many reactive amino, hydroxyl, and carboxylic acid pendant groups. Chemical modifications of SCS with antibodies and other active species are easily achieved through bonding with these groups, allowing targeting and detection. In this work, SCS was obtained by amidation of primary amine groups of CS with succinic anhydride. The succinylation degree, determined by 1H‐NMR, was 28%. Evaluation by zeta potential measurements of SCS showed a pH‐dependent charge profile, which can be conveniently exploited to prepare pH‐sensitive nanoparticles. Colloidal stable SCS/CS and SCS nanoparticles, useful in drug delivery, were prepared by ionic crosslinking from mixtures of CS and SCS in different weight percentages. Nanoparticles with sizes between 140–250 nm (after purification process) are obtained, which through further surface functionalization are suitable for application in drug delivery. The colloidal stability of the particles in water was studied by particle size measurements during 30 days and aggregation or formation of larger particles was not observed.
Behavior of Toxic Gas Sensor Based on Conducting Polypyrrole
Authors: Lee Jung Joon , Yoo Dohyuk , Park Chanil , Kim Jung Hyun , Choi Hyang Hee
Published: August 2015

A sensor for two types of ammonia (NH3) and carbon monoxide (CO) is fabricated on silicon substrate by using the drop‐coating method and the sensor performance is investigated. Polypyrrole, an electro‐conductive plastic, is used as the sensing material of the gas sensor. The gas sensor functions to maintain a constant gate voltage in a state that facilitates measurement of the conductivity of the gate, source, and drain having a source electrode and the drain electrode of a field effect transistor channel between the structures. The sensor exhibits an increase/decrease of the resistance upon exposure to a low concentration of NH3 and CO gas. This approach can be applied for highly sensitive room‐temperature sensing of CO and NH3 at sub‐ppm concentrations and for the development of very low‐power devices. The synthesized conducting polypyrrole was characterized via field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The electronic transport properties of the sensors are measured in a field effect transistor geometry under ambient conditions. The sensing properties of the conducting polypyrrole gas sensor at sub‐ppm gas concentrations are described.
On Thermal and Spectroscopic Studies of Poly(ethylene oxide)/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Blends with Lithium Perchlorate
Authors: Karim Siti Rozana Abd , Sim Lai Har , Chan Chin Han , Ramli Hairunnisa
Published: August 2015

In this study, thermal properties and ion‐polymer interactions of lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) in poly(ethylene oxide)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PEO/PMMA) blend prepared by solution casting technique were elucidated. The spectroscopic studies of the salt‐free and salt‐doped PEO/PMMA blends were investigated using x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infra‐red (FTIR), respectively. XRD study reveals that the crystalline structure of PEO is slight change when PMMA is blended to PEO. The thermal behaviour of PEO, PMMA and their blends with and without LiClO4 was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The presence of a single and composition dependent glass transition temperature (Tg) reflects the miscibility of the salt‐free PEO/PMMA blends in the molten state. The Tgs of PEO, PMMA and the blends generally increase with ascending mass fraction of salt (WS). However, PEO/PMMA 50/50 blend with WS ≥ 0.091 shows phase separation between the two polymers. The melting temperature (Tm) and crystallinity (X*) of PEO are suppressed when blended with PMMA, thus, confirm the miscibility of the salt‐free PEO/PMMA blends in the molten state. Presence of LiClO4 to PEO, PMMA and their blends does not influences the X* of PEO. Investigation by FTIR does not show any specific interaction between PEO and PMMA for the salt‐free blends whereas for the salt‐doped blends, Li+ ions are observed to coordinate with the oxygen atom of both the PEO ether and the PMMA carboxyl groups. Impedance spectroscopy study demonstrates that the LiClO4–doped PEO/PMMA 75/25 blend has lower ion conductivity than that of the PEO + LiClO4 system but recorded enhanced conductivity as compared to PMMA + LiClO4 systems at WS = 0.091.
Application of DNA adductomics to soil bacterium Sphingobium sp. strain KK22
Authors: Kanaly Robert A. , Micheletto Ruggero , Matsuda Tomonari , Utsuno Youko , Ozeki Yasuhiro , Hamamura Natsuko
Published: August 2015

Toward the development of ecotoxicology methods to investigate microbial markers of impacts of hydrocarbon processing activities, DNA adductomic analyses were conducted on a sphingomonad soil bacterium. From growing cells that were exposed or unexposed to acrolein, a commonly used biocide in hydraulic fracturing processes, DNA was extracted, digested to 2′‐deoxynucleosides and analyzed by liquid chromatography‐positive ionization electrospray‐tandem mass spectrometry in selected reaction monitoring mode transmitting the [M + H]+ > [M + H − 116]+ transition over 100 transitions. Overall data shown as DNA adductome maps revealed numerous putative DNA adducts under both conditions with some occurring specifically for each condition. Adductomic analyses of triplicate samples indicated that elevated levels of some targeted putative adducts occurred in exposed cells. Two exposure‐specific adducts were identified in exposed cells as 3‐(2′‐deoxyribosyl)‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydro‐6‐hydroxy‐(and 8‐hydroxy‐)pyrimido[1,2‐a]‐ purine‐(3H)‐one (6‐ and 8‐hydroxy‐PdG) following synthesis of authentic standards of these compounds and subsequent analyses. A time course experiment showed that 6‐ and 8‐hydroxy‐PdG were detected in bacterial DNA within 30 min of acrolein exposure but were not detected in unexposed cells. This work demonstrated the first application of DNA adductomics to examine DNA damage in a bacterium and sets a foundation for future work.
Flow‐through anastomosis for both the artery and vein in leg free flap transfer
Authors: Fujiki Masahide , Miyamoto Shimpei , Sakuraba Minoru
Published: August 2015

Objective

Free flap transfer is an essential part of limb‐sparing surgery for leg sarcoma; however, this procedure is associated with a high failure rate. The aim of this study was to identify factors that contribute to microvascular compromise and flap failure for leg free flap transfer, while focusing on anastomotic techniques (end‐to‐end, end‐to‐side, and flow‐through anastomoses).

Patients and methods

Data from 56 consecutive patients who underwent leg free flap transfer after oncologic resection were retrospectively reviewed. Of these patients, flow‐through anastomosis was performed with the artery in 29 and the vein in 24, whereas conventional techniques were performed in others. The variables contributing to microvascular compromise and flap failure were statistically analyzed.

Results

Venous thrombosis (four patients, 7.1%) was more frequent than arterial thrombosis (one patient, 1.8%) and (4 patients, 7.1%) resulted in flap loss. All anastomotic failures occurred in end‐to‐end anastomoses. All flow‐through anastomoses achieved patency both for the artery and vein. No anastomotic failure or flap loss occurred in 22 flaps which were transferred with flow‐through anastomosis for both the artery and vein. Flow‐through venous anastomosis tended to have a lower rate of microvascular compromise and flap loss than conventional techniques (P = 0.13 and 0.25, respectively).

Conclusion

The key to successful leg free flap transfer is to prevent venous failure; thus, flow‐through venous anastomosis may be a breakthrough solution. Preferential use of flow‐through anastomosis for both the artery and vein can provide predictable results in leg free flap transfer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 35:536–540, 2015.
The effect of differing patterns of childhood body mass index gain on adult physiology in American Indians
Authors: Thearle Marie S. , Votruba Susanne B. , Piaggi Paolo , Muller Yunhua L. , Hanson Robert L. , Baier Leslie J , Knowler William , Krakoff Jonathan
Published: August 2015

Objective

Identifying groups of individuals with similar patterns of body mass index (BMI) change during childhood may increase understanding of the relationship between childhood BMI and adult health.

Methods

Discrete classes of BMI z‐score change were determined in 1,920 American Indian children with at least four non diabetic health examinations between the ages of 2 and 18 years using latent class trajectory analysis. In subsets of subjects, data were available for melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R) sequencing; in utero exposure to type 2 diabetes (T2D); or, as adults, oral glucose tolerance tests, onset of T2D, or body composition.

Results

Six separate groups were identified. Individuals with a more modern birth year, an MC4R mutation, or in utero exposure to T2D were clustered in the two groups with high increasing and chronic overweight z‐scores (P < 0.0001). The z‐score classes predicted adult percent fat (P < 0.0001, partial r2 = 0.18 adjusted for covariates). There was a greater risk for T2D, independent from adult BMI, in three classes (lean increasing to overweight, high increasing, and chronic overweight z‐scores) compared to the two leanest groups (respectively: HRR= 3.2, P = 0.01; 6.0, P = 0.0003; 11.6, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Distinct patterns of childhood BMI z‐score change associate with adult adiposity and may impact risk of T2D.
Reliability of the Dutch translation of the Kujala Patellofemoral Score Questionnaire
Authors: Ummels P. E. J. , Lenssen A. F. , Barendrecht M. , Beurskens A. J. H. M.
Published: August 2015

Objective

There are no Dutch language disease‐specific questionnaires for patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome available that could help Dutch physiotherapists to assess and monitor these symptoms and functional limitations. The aim of this study was to translate the original disease‐specific Kujala Patellofemoral Score into Dutch and evaluate its reliability.

Methods

The questionnaire was translated from English into Dutch in accordance with internationally recommended guidelines. Reliability was determined in 50 stable subjects with an interval of 1 week. The patient inclusion criteria were age between 14 and 60 years; knowledge of the Dutch language; and the presence of at least three of the following symptoms: pain while taking the stairs, pain when squatting, pain when running, pain when cycling, pain when sitting with knees flexed for a prolonged period, grinding of the patella and a positive clinical patella test. The internal consistency, test–retest reliability, measurement error and limits of agreement were calculated.

Results

Internal consistency was 0.78 for the first assessment and 0.80 for the second assessment. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICCagreement) between the first and second assessments was 0.98. The mean difference between the first and second measurements was 0.64, and standard deviation was 5.51. The standard error measurement was 3.9, and the smallest detectable change was 11. The Bland and Altman plot shows that the limits of agreement are −10.37 and 11.65.

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicated that the test–retest reliability translated Dutch version of the Kujala Patellofemoral Score questionnaire is equivalent of the test–retest original English language version and has good internal consistency. Trial registration NTR (TC = 3258). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Roles of Photography for Developing Literacy Across the Disciplines
Authors: Cappello Marva , Lafferty Karen E.
Published: August 2015

Teachers can capitalize on the overwhelmingly visual nature of contemporary society for learning and teaching through integrating photography in their classroom instruction. In offering an alternative pathway for acquiring and expressing knowledge, photography has the potential to strengthen instruction across disciplines by drawing on multiple literacies. Indeed, photography can magnify and transform how students learn. This article explores the roles photography played in one fourth grade science classroom where teachers used Visual Thinking Strategies to promote close reading of visual texts and students created photo‐booklets to demonstrate disciplinary literacy in geology as well as reflect on their acquisition of content knowledge through photo‐interviews. In de‐scribing an instructional sequence of visual‐based activities and multi‐modal projects, this article illustrates photography's potential to improve disciplinary literacy teaching and learning by facilitating metacognition, academic vocabulary, and risk taking.
Prenatal ultrasound evaluation of segmental level of neurological lesion in fetuses with myelomeningocele: development of a new technique
Authors: Carreras E. , Maroto A. , Illescas T. , Meléndez M. , Arévalo S. , Peiró J. L. , García‐Fontecha C. G. , Belfort M. , Cuxart A.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To report our preliminary experience in the use of prenatal ultrasound examination to assess lower‐limb movements in fetuses with myelomeningocele. We aimed to determine the accuracy of this method to establish the segmental level of neurological lesion, as this is the best known predictor of the future ability to walk.

Methods

This was a preliminary, observational study including fetuses with myelomeningocele operated on prenatally. The patterns of movements present and absent in the affected fetuses' lower limbs were evaluated systematically by ultrasound examination. According to the known nerve function associated with each muscle group, the segmental level of neurological lesion was established before birth. The agreement for the segmental levels assigned, between the prenatal ultrasound technique and the classical neurological clinical examination after birth (gold standard), was tested using the weighed kappa (wκ) index.

Results

Seventy‐one fetuses with myelomeningocele were evaluated at the Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebron. After counseling, the parents opted for prenatal surgery (26 cases), termination of pregnancy (43 cases) or postnatal repair (two cases). Five patients did not fulfil the inclusion criteria for prenatal surgery and three were excluded after birth. In the 18 fetuses that underwent surgery and were analyzed, the agreement between prenatal and postnatal segmental levels assigned was 91.7% for the right limb (wκ = 0.80) and 88.9% for the left limb (wκ = 0.73).

Conclusions

The agreement found between prenatal and postnatal assignment of level of lesion in this preliminary study suggests that neurological sonographic evaluation is feasible before birth. This may provide accurate individualized information about the motor function and future ambulation prognosis of fetuses with myelomeningocele. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Clinical Significance of Multiple Pulmonary Metastasectomy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Mizuguchi Shinjiro , Nishiyama Noritoshi , Izumi Nobuhiro , Tsukioka Takuma , Komatsu Hiroaki , Iwata Takashi , Tanaka Shogo , Takemura Shigekazu , Kubo Shoji
Published: August 2015

Background

The lung is the most common site of extrahepatic metastasis from hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance and long‐term outcomes of pulmonary metastasectomy for HCC, especially in patients with multiple nodules or repeated pulmonary recurrence.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 19 patients who underwent pulmonary metastasectomy for HCC at our institution from 1993 to 2013.

Results

No in‐hospital mortality occurred. The 19 patients included 14 men. The median age was 61 (range 20–76) years. Eight patients (42 %) had single pulmonary metastatic lesions, whereas 4 (21 %) had >10 lesions. Median follow‐up after pulmonary metastasectomy was 23.1 (6.3–230) months. Twelve patients died, and the cause of death was HCC progression in nine. The 1‐, 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year overall survival rates after pulmonary metastasectomy were 89, 48, 48, and 21 %, respectively. Seven patients developed pulmonary recurrence after initial pulmonary metastasectomy. Five of the seven underwent repeat metastasectomy, with a median survival time of 65 months, and 2‐ and 3‐year survival rates of 100 and 67 %, respectively. The 2‐ and 3‐year survival rates in the four patients with >10 pulmonary nodules were 75 and 50 %, respectively.

Conclusions

Surgical resection is a safe and effective treatment in selected patients with pulmonary metastasis from HCC, even in those with multiple nodules. Repeated locoregional therapy for lung recurrence might help to improve survival in these patients.
Brokering the Research–Practice Gap: A typology
Authors: Neal Jennifer Watling , Neal Zachary P. , Kornbluh Mariah , Mills Kristen J. , Lawlor Jennifer A.
Published: August 2015

Despite widespread recognition of a research–practice gap in multiple service sectors, less is known about how pre‐existing communication channels facilitate the flow of information between researchers and practitioners. In the current study, we applied an existing typology of brokerage developed by Gould and Fernandez (Sociol Methodol 19:89–126,1989) to examine what types of brokerage facilitate information spread between researchers and educational practitioners. Specifically, we conducted semi‐structured interviews with 19 school administrators and staff in two public school districts regarding their experiences searching for information about instructional, health, and social skills programs. Using deductive content analysis, we found evidence of all five types of brokerage identified by Gould and Fernandez (1989). However, only three types of brokerage—gatekeepers, representatives, and liaisons—were involved in the flow of information between school administrators and researchers. Moreover, information transfer often occurred in longer chains that involved multiple, distinct types of brokerage. We conclude with the broad implications of our findings for narrowing the research–practice gap by improving researchers’ dissemination efforts and practitioners’ search for information.
Puzzling role of genetic risk factors in human longevity: “risk alleles” as pro-longevity variants
Authors: Ukraintseva Svetlana , Yashin Anatoliy , Arbeev Konstantin , Kulminski Alexander , Akushevich Igor , Wu Deqing , Joshi Gaurang , Land Kenneth C. , Stallard Eric
Published: August 2015

Complex diseases are major contributors to human mortality in old age. Paradoxically, many genetic variants that have been associated with increased risks of such diseases are found in genomes of long-lived people, and do not seem to compromise longevity. Here we argue that trade-off-like and conditional effects of genes can play central role in this phenomenon and in determining longevity. Such effects may occur as result of: (i) antagonistic influence of gene on the development of different health disorders; (ii) change in the effect of gene on vulnerability to death with age (especially, from “bad” to “good”); (iii) gene–gene interaction; and (iv) gene–environment interaction, among other factors. A review of current knowledge provides many examples of genetic factors that may increase the risk of one disease but reduce chances of developing another serious health condition, or improve survival from it. Factors that may increase risk of a major disease but attenuate manifestation of physical senescence are also discussed. Overall, available evidence suggests that the influence of a genetic variant on longevity may be negative, neutral or positive, depending on a delicate balance of the detrimental and beneficial effects of such variant on multiple health and aging related traits. This balance may change with age, internal and external environments, and depend on genetic surrounding. We conclude that trade-off-like and conditional genetic effects are very common and may result in situations when a disease “risk allele” can also be a pro-longevity variant, depending on context. We emphasize importance of considering such effects in both aging research and disease prevention.
Mannose receptor‐mediated delivery of moss‐made α‐galactosidase A efficiently corrects enzyme deficiency in Fabry mice
Authors: Shen Jin‐Song , Busch Andreas , Day Taniqua S. , Meng Xing‐Li , Yu Chun I. , Dabrowska‐Schlepp Paulina , Fode Benjamin , Niederkrüger Holger , Forni Sabrina , Chen Shuyuan , Schiffmann Raphael , Frischmuth Thomas , Schaaf Andreas
Published: August 2015

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) is an effective treatment for several lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs). Intravenously infused enzymes are taken up by tissues through either the mannose 6‐phosphate receptor (M6PR) or the mannose receptor (MR). It is generally believed that M6PR‐mediated endocytosis is a key mechanism for ERT in treating LSDs that affect the non‐macrophage cells of visceral organs. However, the therapeutic efficacy of MR‐mediated delivery of mannose‐terminated enzymes in these diseases has not been fully evaluated. We tested the effectiveness of a non‐phosphorylated α‐galactosidase A produced from moss (referred to as moss‐aGal) in vitro and in a mouse model of Fabry disease. Endocytosis of moss‐aGal was MR‐dependent. Compared to agalsidase alfa, a phosphorylated form of α‐galactosidase A, moss‐aGal was more preferentially targeted to the kidney. Cellular localization of moss‐aGal and agalsidase alfa in the heart and kidney was essentially identical. A single injection of moss‐aGal led to clearance of accumulated substrate in the heart and kidney to an extent comparable to that achieved by agalsidase alfa. This study suggested that mannose‐terminated enzymes may be sufficiently effective for some LSDs in which non‐macrophage cells are affected, and that M6P residues may not always be a prerequisite for ERT as previously considered.
Behavioural and emotional problems, intellectual impairment and health‐related quality of life in patients with organic acidurias and urea cycle disorders
Authors: Jamiolkowski Dagmar , Kölker Stefan , Glahn Esther M. , Barić Ivo , Zeman Jiri , Baumgartner Matthias R. , Mühlhausen Chris , Garcia‐Cazorla Angels , Gleich Florian , Haege Gisela , Burgard Peter ,   on behalf of the E‐IMD consortium
Published: August 2015

Background

Organic acidurias (OADs) and urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are inborn metabolic disorders with a risk for acute and chronic metabolic decompensation resulting in impairments of the central nervous system and other organ systems. So far, there is no systematic study of intellectual functioning, behavioural/emotional problems and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), and how these domains are connected.

Methods

Data of 152 patients with OADs (n = 100) and UCDs (n = 52) from the European Registry and Network of intoxication type Metabolic Diseases (E‐IMD) using standardized instruments were compared with normative data.

Results

Behavioural/emotional problems are increased in OADs or UCDs patients by a factor of 2.5 (3.0), in female asymptomatic carriers of X‐linked inherited UCD ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency (fasOTCD) by a factor of 1.5. All groups show similar patterns of behavioural/emotional problems, not different from epidemiological data. Mental disability (IQ ≤ 70) was found in 31 % of OAD, 43 % of UCD, but not in fasOTCD subjects. HRQoL was decreased in the physical domain, but in the normal range. Behavioural/emotional problems were significantly associated with intellectual functioning (OR = 6.24, 95 %CI: 1.39–27.99), but HRQoL was independent from both variables.

Conclusions

Patients with OADs and UCDs show increased frequencies of mental disability and behavioural/emotional problems. Profiles of behavioural/emotional problems were similar to epidemiological data. Intellectual disability and behavioural/emotional problems were strongly associated. Patients’ HRQoL was in the normal range, possibly compensated by coping strategies of their families. Diagnostics and clinical care of OAD/UCD patients should be improved regarding behavioural/emotional, intellectual and quality of life aspects.
The Life Course Perspective: a Guide for Genetic Counselors
Authors: Hamilton Rebekah J. , Innella Nancy A. , Bounds Dawn T.
Published: August 2015

This is the first article in a two part series about utilizing the life course perspective (LCP) in genetic counseling. LCP can be a useful tool for genetic counselors when counseling people with a known genetic mutation. Previous theories such as Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) and Common Sense Model of Self‐Regulation (CSMSR) examine current reactions to a positive genetic test result. LCP extends beyond the current time to explore temporal and contextual elements of the experience. A review of research revealed, LCP has been used to study the perspective of caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease, referral for a family history of breast cancer, Mexican American caregivers of older adult, social class and cancer incidence and cancer and the sense of mastery. Incorporating LCP into a study explaining the experiences of people living with a positive test result for a genetic mutation such as the BRCA mutation provides a comprehensive exploration of this experience.
Does Electrification Spur the Fertility Transition? Evidence From Indonesia
Authors: Grimm Michael , Sparrow Robert , Tasciotti Luca
Published: August 2015

We analyze various pathways through which access to electricity affects fertility in Indonesia, using a district difference-in-difference approach. The electrification rate increased by 65 % over the study period, and our results suggest that the subsequent effects on fertility account for about 18 % to 24 % of the overall decline in fertility. A key channel is increased exposure to television. Using in addition several waves of Demographic and Health Surveys, we find suggestive evidence that increased exposure to TV affects, in particular, fertility preferences and increases the effective use of contraception. Reduced child mortality seems to be another important pathway.
The Geographical Scope of the EU’s Climate Responsibilities
Authors: SCOTT Joanne
Published: August 2015

It is increasingly common for the EU to include extraterritorial greenhouse gas emissions within the scope of its climate change laws. These measures have proved to be fiercely controversial and on more than one occasion the EU has been forced to back down. With this in mind, this paper asks how far the EU’s climate change responsibilities ought to extend geographically. In answering this question, the paper draws a distinction between first-order and second-order climate responsibilities, acknowledges the importance of the internationally agreed ‘system boundary’ guidelines adopted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and seeks to learn lessons from the consequentialist approach that was favoured by the EU in giving broad geographical scope to its decision to include extraterritorial aviation emissions within the scope of its emissions trading scheme.
Institutionalizing Imagination: National Defense and Defense of the Humanities in The 9/11 Report
Authors: MILLER KRISTINE A.
Published: August 2015

This essay analyzes The 9/11 Report, exploring its connection between the defense of the nation and the defense of the humanities. Comparing American civic engagement with the work of literary criticism, the report argues that America's “most important failure” before 9/11 “was one of imagination.” Significantly, each of its four major recommendations for improving future intelligence work parallels a specific literary-critical skill. Grounding these skills in the work of the humanities classroom, The 9/11 Report concludes that America's global power requires the imagination and the ethics central to a liberal arts education.
Reconstructing China: Japanese technicians and industrialization in the early years of the People's Republic of China
Authors: KING AMY
Published: August 2015

The Chinese Communist Party was confronted with the pressing challenge of ‘reconstructing’ China's industrial economy when it came to power in 1949. Drawing on recently declassified Chinese Foreign Ministry archives, this article argues that the Party met this challenge by drawing on the expertise of Japanese technicians left behind in Northeast China at the end of the Second World War. Between 1949 and 1953, when they were eventually repatriated, thousands of Japanese technicians were used by the Chinese Communist Party to develop new technology and industrial techniques, train less skilled Chinese workers, and rebuild factories, mines, railways, and other industrial sites in the Northeast. These first four years of the People's Republic of China represent an important moment of both continuity and change in China's history. Like the Chinese Nationalist government before them, the Chinese Communist Party continued to draw on the technological and industrial legacy of the Japanese empire in Asia to rebuild China's war-torn economy. But this four-year period was also a moment of profound change. As the Cold War erupted in Asia, the Chinese Communist Party began a long-term reconceptualization of how national power was intimately connected to technology and industrial capability, and viewed Japanese technicians as a vital element in the transformation of China into a modern and powerful nation.
Molecular characterization and development ofSarcocystis speerisarcocysts in gamma interferon gene knockout mice
Authors: DUBEY J. P. , VERMA S. K. , DUNAMS D. , CALERO-BERNAL R. , ROSENTHAL B. M.
Published: August 2015

The North American opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is the definitive host for at least three named species ofSarcocystis: Sarcocystis falcatula, Sarcocystis neuronaandSarcocystis speeri.The South American opossums (Didelphis albiventris, Didelphis marsupialisandDidelphis aurita) are definitive hosts forS. falcatulaandS. lindsayi. The sporocysts of theseSarcocystisspecies are similar morphologically. They are also not easily distinguished genetically because of the difficulties of DNA extraction from sporocysts and availability of distinguishing genetic markers. Some of these species can be distinguished by bioassay;S. neuronaandS. speeriare infective to gamma interferon gene knockout (KO) mice, but not to budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus); whereasS. falcatulaandS. lindsayiare infective to budgerigars but not to KO mice. The natural intermediate host ofS. speeriis unknown. In the present study, development of sarcocysts ofS. speeriin the KO mice is described. Sarcocysts were first seen at 12 days post-inoculation (p.i.), and they became macroscopic (up to 4 mm long) by 25 days p.i. The structure of the sarcocyst wall did not change from the time bradyzoites had formed at 50–220 days p.i. Sarcocysts contained unique villar protrusions, ‘type 38’. The polymerase chain reaction amplifications and sequences analysis of three nuclear loci (18S rRNA, 28S rRNAandITS1) and two mitochondrial loci (cox1andcytb) ofS. speeriisolate from an Argentinean opossum (D. albiventris) confirmed its membership among species ofSarcocystisand indicated an especially close relationship to another parasite in this genus that employs opossums as its definitive host,S. neurona.These results should be useful in finding natural intermediate host ofS. speeri.