bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CONTRIBUIÇÃO DE PEIRCE PARA A TEORIA DA COMUNICAÇÃO
Authors: Romanini Vinicius
Published: August 2016

Charles Sanders Peirce (1839-1914) deu importantes contribuições para a filosofia, para a matemática e para a lógica. Mas foi principalmente para esta última que a maior parte de seus estudos se voltou. Sua teoria geral dos signos, ou semiótica, foi desenvolvida como uma tentativa de descobrir a lógica que fundamenta as nossas concepções do real e como o conhecimento cresce a partir do compartilhamento e debate de opiniões no interior de uma comunidade.  Por isso, o pragmatismo – seu maior legado para a filosofia – foi por ele definido como um método para clarear nossas ideias a partir da análise dos possíveis efeitos que a adoção de um conceito (uma crença) poderia produzir. A partir de 1905, Peirce passou a considerar o signo como o meio para a transmissão das formas que fundamentam os conceitos, e a comunicação como a mais elevada dos vários tipos de ação do signo. Na semiose, os símbolos se mantêm falíveis e em contínua transformação porque essa é sua natureza: crescer e se desenvolver num universo inteligível e repleto de sentido. Nesse realismo semiótico baseado numa teoria social do conhecimento, a estética fundamenta a ética, e estas fornecem a base para a lógica – compreendida agora como uma teoria geral da comunicação.
The Influence of a Prefabricated Foot Orthosis on Lower Extremity Mechanics During Running in Individuals With Varying Dynamic Foot Motion
Authors: Almonroeder Thomas G. , Benson Lauren C. , O'Connor Kristian M.
Published: August 2016

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study, cross-sectional.

Background

Orthotic prescription is often based on the premise that the mechanical effects will be more prominent in individuals with greater calcaneal eversion.

Objective

To compare the effects of a prefabricated foot orthosis on lower extremity kinematics and kinetics between recreational athletes with high and low calcaneal eversion during running.

Methods

Thirty-one recreational athletes were included in this study. Three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data were collected while running with and without a foot orthosis. Participants were grouped based on the degree of calcaneal eversion during the running trials relative to a standing trial (dynamic foot motion). The effects of the orthosis on the frontal and transverse plane angles and moments of the hip and knee were compared between the 10 participants with the greatest and least amount of dynamic foot motion.

Results

There were no significant interactions (group by orthotic condition) for any of the kinematic or kinetic variables of interest.

Conclusion

The effects of an orthosis on the mechanics of the hip and knee do not appear to be dependent on an individual's dynamic foot motion. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(9):749–755. Epub 5 Aug 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6253
Feedback and Feedforward Control During Walking in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Yen Sheng-Che , Corkery Marie B. , Donohoe Amy , Grogan Maddison , Wu Yi-Ning
Published: August 2016

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Background

Recurrent ankle sprains associated with chronic ankle instability (CAI) occur not only in challenging sports but also in daily walking. Understanding whether and how CAI alters feedback and feedforward controls during walking may be important for developing interventions for CAI prevention or treatment.

Objective

To understand whether CAI is associated with changes in feedback and feedforward control when individuals with CAI are subjected to experimental perturbation during walking.

Methods

Twelve subjects with CAI and 12 control subjects walked on a treadmill while adapting to external loading that generated inversion perturbation at the ankle joint. Ankle kinematics around heel contact during and after the adaptation were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

Both healthy and CAI groups showed an increase in eversion around heel contact in early adaptation to the external loading. However, the CAI group adapted back toward the baseline, while the healthy controls showed further increase in eversion in late adaptation. When the external loading was removed in the postadaptation period, healthy controls showed an aftereffect consisting of an increase in eversion around heel contact, but the CAI group showed no aftereffect.

Conclusion

The results provide preliminary evidence that CAI may alter individuals' feedback and feedforward control during walking. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(9):775–783. Epub 5 Aug 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6403
Effects of Group-Based Exercise on Range of Motion, Muscle Strength, Functional Ability, and Pain During the Acute Phase After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Hiyama Yoshinori , Kamitani Tsukasa , Wada Osamu , Mizuno Kiyonori , Yamada Minoru
Published: August 2016

Study Design

Prospective observational study including a historical control group.

Background

The extent to which group-based exercise (G-EXE) improves knee range of motion (ROM), quadriceps strength, and gait ability is similar to that of individualized exercise (I-EXE) at 6 weeks and 8 months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the benefits of G-EXE for patients during the acute recovery phase after TKA remain unclear.

Objective

To determine the effects of G-EXE during the acute recovery phase after TKA on knee ROM, quadriceps strength, functional ability, and knee pain.

Methods

Two hundred thirty-one patients participated in G-EXE in addition to regular ambulation and activities-of-daily-living exercises twice daily during the hospital stay. Outcomes were compared to those of a retrospectively identified, historical control group (I-EXE group [n = 206]) that included patients who performed exercises identical to those performed by the G-EXE group. The outcomes included knee ROM, quadriceps strength, pain intensity, and timed up-and-go test score at 1 month before surgery and at discharge. Analyses were adjusted for age, body mass index, sex, length of hospital stay, and preoperative values.

Results

Changes in ROM of knee flexion and extension (P<.001) and quadriceps strength (P<.001) were significantly better in the G-EXE group than those in the I-EXE group at discharge. The pain intensity improved more in the G-EXE group than in the I-EXE group at discharge (P<.001). However, the changes in the timed up-and-go scores were not significantly different.

Conclusion

Patients performing G-EXE in addition to regular ambulation and activities-of-daily-living exercises demonstrated greater changes in knee ROM, quadriceps strength, and knee pain than those performing I-EXE in addition to regular ambulation and activities-of-daily-living exercises. The nonrandomized, asynchronous design decreases certainty of these findings.

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(9):742–748. Epub 5 Aug 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6409
Differential Diagnosis and Intervention of Proximal Median Nerve Entrapment: A Resident's Case Problem
Authors: Bair Marcus R. , Gross Michael T. , Cooke Jennifer R. , Hill Carla H.
Published: August 2016

Study Design

Resident's case problem.

Background

Entrapment neuropathies represent a diagnostic challenge and require a comprehensive understanding of the nerve's path and the anatomical structures that may cause compression of the nerve. This resident's case problem details the evaluation and differential diagnosis process for median nerve entrapment resulting from forceful and repetitive pronation/supination motions.

Diagnosis

Median nerve compression syndromes include pronator syndrome, anterior interosseous nerve syndrome, and carpal tunnel syndrome. A cluster of clinical special tests were performed to determine the anatomical site of median nerve entrapment. Based on the patient's history and clinical test results, a diagnosis of pronator syndrome was determined. Provocation testing specific to pronator syndrome assisted with further localizing the site of entrapment to the pronator teres muscle, which guided effective management strategies.

Discussion

This resident's case problem illustrates the importance of detailed anatomical knowledge and a differential diagnostic process when evaluating a patient with signs and symptoms of an entrapment neuropathy of the median nerve. Electrodiagnostic studies are useful in ruling out carpal tunnel and anterior interosseous nerve syndromes, but are often inconclusive in cases of pronator syndrome. Therefore, a diagnosis of pronator syndrome in this case problem was based on a detailed understanding of median nerve anatomy, potential sites of compression, and unique clinical features associated with this condition.

Level of Evidence

Differential diagnosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(9):800–808. Epub 5 Aug 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6723
Contemporary analysis of the intraoperative and perioperative complications of neurosurgical procedures performed in the sitting position
Authors: Himes Benjamin T. , Mallory Grant W. , Abcejo Arnoley S. , Pasternak Jeffrey , Atkinson John L. D. , Meyer Fredric B. , Marsh W. Richard , Link Michael J. , Clarke Michelle J. , Perkins William , Van Gompel Jamie J.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Historically, performing neurosurgery with the patient in the sitting position offered advantages such as improved visualization and gravity-assisted retraction. However, this position fell out of favor at many centers due to the perceived risk of venous air embolism (VAE) and other position-related complications. Some neurosurgical centers continue to perform sitting-position cases in select patients, often using modern monitoring techniques that may improve procedural safety. Therefore, this paper reports the risks associated with neurosurgical procedures performed in the sitting position in a modern series.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the anesthesia records for instances of clinically significant VAE and other complications for all neurosurgical procedures performed in the sitting position between January 1, 2000, and October 8, 2013. In addition, a prospectively maintained morbidity and mortality log of these procedures was reviewed for instances of subdural or intracerebral hemorrhage, tension pneumocephalus, and quadriplegia. Both overall and specific complication rates were calculated in relation to the specific type of procedure.

RESULTS

In a series of 1792 procedures, the overall complication rate related to the sitting position was 1.45%, which included clinically significant VAE, tension pneumocephalus, and subdural hemorrhage. The rate of any detected VAE was 4.7%, but the rate of VAE requiring clinical intervention was 1.06%. The risk of clinically significant VAE was highest in patients undergoing suboccipital craniotomy/craniectomy with a rate of 2.7% and an odds ratio (OR) of 2.8 relative to deep brain stimulator cases (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2–70, p = 0.04). Sitting cervical spine cases had a comparatively lower complication rate of 0.7% and an OR of 0.28 as compared with all cranial procedures (95% CI 0.12–0.67, p < 0.01). Sitting cervical cases were further subdivided into extradural and intradural procedures. The rate of complications in intradural cases was significantly higher (OR 7.3, 95% CI 1.4–39, p = 0.02) than for extradural cases. The risk of VAE in intradural spine procedures did not differ significantly from sitting suboccipital craniotomy/craniectomy cases (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.09–5.4, p = 0.7). Two cases (0.1%) had to be aborted intraoperatively due to complications. There were no instances of intraoperative deaths, although there was a single death within 30 days of surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large, modern series of cases performed in the sitting position, the complication rate was low. Suboccipital craniotomy/craniectomy was associated with the highest risk of complications. When appropriately used with modern anesthesia techniques, the sitting position provides a safe means of surgical access.
Repeat stereotactic radiosurgery as salvage therapy for locally recurrent brain metastases previously treated with radiosurgery
Authors: McKay Will H. , McTyre Emory R. , Okoukoni Catherine , Alphonse-Sullivan Natalie K. , Ruiz Jimmy , Munley Michael T. , Qasem Shadi , Lo Hui-Wen , Xing Fei , Laxton Adrian W. , Tatter Stephen B. , Watabe Kounosuke , Chan Michael D.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

There are a variety of salvage options available for patients with brain metastases who experience local failure after stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). These options include resection, whole-brain radiation therapy, laser thermoablation, and repeat SRS. There is little data on the safety and efficacy of repeat SRS following local failure of a prior radiosurgical procedure. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes and dosimetric characteristics of patients who experienced tumor recurrence and were subsequently treated with repeat SRS.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2015, 32 patients were treated with repeat SRS for local recurrence of ≥ 1 brain metastasis following initial SRS treatment. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate time-to-event outcomes including overall survival (OS), local failure, and radiation necrosis. Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed for predictor variables of interest for each outcome. Composite dose-volume histograms were constructed for each reirradiated lesion, and these were then used to develop a predictive dosimetric model for radiation necrosis.

RESULTS

Forty-six lesions in 32 patients were re-treated with a second course of SRS after local failure. A median dose of 20 Gy (range 14–22 Gy) was delivered to the tumor margin at the time of repeat SRS. Local control at 1 year was 79% (95% CI 67%–94%). Estimated 1-year OS was 70% (95% CI 55%–88%). Twelve patients had died at the most recent follow-up, with 8/12 patients experiencing neurological death (as described in Patchell et al.). Eleven of 46 (24%) lesions in 11 separate patients treated with repeat SRS were associated with symptomatic radiation necrosis. Freedom from radiation necrosis at 1 year was 71% (95% CI 57%–88%). Analysis of dosimetric data revealed that the volume of a lesion receiving 40 Gy (V40Gy) was the most predictive factor for the development of radiation necrosis (p = 0.003). The following V40Gy thresholds were associated with 10%, 20%, and 50% probabilities of radiation necrosis, respectively: 0.28 cm3 (95% CI 3%–28%), 0.76 cm3 (95% CI 9%–39%), 1.60 cm3 (95% CI 26%–74%).

CONCLUSIONS

Repeat SRS appears to be an effective salvage option for patients with brain metastases experiencing local failure following initial SRS treatment. This series demonstrates durable local control and, although rates of radiation necrosis are significant, repeat SRS may be indicated for select cases of local disease recurrence. Because the V40Gy is predictive of radiation necrosis, limiting this value during treatment planning may allow for a reduction in radiation necrosis rates.
Endoscope-assisted transsphenoidal puncture of the cavernous sinus for embolization of carotid-cavernous fistula in a neurosurgical hybrid operating suite
Authors: Tang Chien-Lun , Liao Chih-Hsiang , Chen Wen-Hsien , Shen Shih-Chieh , Lee Chung-Hsin , Lee Hsu-Tung , Tsuei Yuang-Seng
Published: August 2016

Endovascular embolization is the treatment of choice for carotid-cavernous fistulas (CCFs), but failure to catheterize the cavernous sinus may occur as a result of vessel tortuosity, hypoplasia, or stenosis. In addition to conventional transvenous or transarterial routes, alternative approaches should be considered. The authors present a case in which a straightforward route to the CCF was accessed via transsphenoidal puncture of the cavernous sinus in a neurosurgical hybrid operating suite.

This 82-year-old man presented with severe chemosis and proptosis of the right eye. Digital subtraction angiography revealed a Type B CCF with a feeding artery arising from the meningohypophyseal trunk of the right cavernous segment of the internal carotid artery. The CCF drained through a thrombosed right superior ophthalmic vein that ended deep in the orbit; there were no patent sinuses or venous plexuses connecting to the CCF. An endoscope-assisted transsphenoidal puncture created direct access to the nidus for embolization. Embolic agents were deployed through the puncture needle to achieve complete obliteration. Endoscope-assisted transsphenoidal puncture of the cavernous sinus is a feasible alternative to treat difficult-to-access CCFs in a neurosurgical hybrid operating suite.
Vascular permeability and iron deposition biomarkers in longitudinal follow-up of cerebral cavernous malformations
Authors: Girard Romuald , Fam Maged D. , Zeineddine Hussein A. , Tan Huan , Mikati Abdul Ghani , Shi Changbin , Jesselson Michael , Shenkar Robert , Wu Meijing , Cao Ying , Hobson Nicholas , Larsson Henrik B. W. , Christoforidis Gregory A. , Awad Issam A.
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE

Vascular permeability and iron leakage are central features of cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) pathogenesis. The authors aimed to correlate prospective clinical behavior of CCM lesions with longitudinal changes in biomarkers of dynamic contrast-enhanced quantitative permeability (DCEQP) and quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) assessed by MRI.

METHODS

Forty-six patients with CCMs underwent 2 or more permeability and/or susceptibility studies in conjunction with baseline and follow-up imaging and clinical surveillance during a mean 12.05 months of follow-up (range 2.4–31.27 months). Based on clinical and imaging features, cases/lesions were classified as stable, unstable, or recovering. Associated and predictive changes in quantitative permeability and susceptibility were investigated.

RESULTS

Lesional mean permeability and QSM values were not significantly different in stable versus unstable lesions at baseline. Mean lesional permeability in unstable CCMs with lesional bleeding or growth increased significantly (+85.9% change; p = 0.005), while mean permeability in stable and recovering lesions did not significantly change. Mean lesional QSM values significantly increased in unstable lesions (+44.1% change; p = 0.01), decreased slightly with statistical significance in stable lesions (−3.2% change; p = 0.003), and did not significantly change in recovering lesions. Familial cases developing new lesions during the follow-up period showed a higher background brain permeability at baseline (p = 0.001), as well as higher regional permeability (p = 0.003) in the area that would later develop a new lesion as compared with the homologous contralateral brain region.

CONCLUSIONS

In vivo assessment of vascular permeability and iron deposition on MRI can serve as objective and quantifiable biomarkers of disease activity in CCMs. This may be applied in natural history studies and may help calibrate clinical trials. The 2 techniques are likely applicable in other disorders of vascular integrity and iron leakage such as aging, hemorrhagic microangiopathy, and traumatic brain injury.
A convenient synthesis of 1-aralkyl-4-benzylpiperazine derivatives
Authors: Hu Xiao , Chen Hui , Wu Wei-Jun , Wang Wen-Ling , Wang Jin
Published: August 2016

An efficient two-step route was developed for the synthesis of 1-aralkyl-4-benzylpiperazine derivatives by a Blanc reaction and alkylation. The key intermediate, N-benzylpiperazine, was prepared in an excellent yield by direct benzylation of commercially available piperazine under metal-free conditions.
Effect of supporting 3D-garment on gait postural stability in children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Degelaen Marc , De Borre Ludo , Buyl Ronald , Kerckhofs Eric , De Meirleir Linda , Dan Bernard
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Children with cerebral palsy show dysfunctional postural control which interferes with their functional performance and daily-life activities.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to identify the effect of a 3D supporting garment on trunk postural control and interjoint coordination during gait in children with bilateral cerebral palsy.

METHODS: We analyzed tridimensional trunk motion, trunk-thigh and interjoint coordination in 15 4–10 year-old children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy (GMFCS I or II) and 16 4–10 year-old typically developing children while walking with or without a supporting garment.

RESULTS: We found significantly changes in the coordination between trunk and lower limbs in children with cerebral palsy. Step velocity and cadence both increased significantly in children with cerebral palsy but in controls, the cadence remained unaltered. Interjoint coordination between hip-knee and knee-ankle was altered during the stance phase only in the subgroup of children with cerebral palsy without any limitations in ankle joint passive range of motion.

CONCLUSION: 3D supporting garments improve trunk-thigh and lower limb interjoint coordination in walking in children with bilateral cerebral palsy.
Functional assessment of immediate task planning and execution by adults with acquired brain injury
Authors: Brown Jessica A. , Hux Karen
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) often struggle planning and executing tasks outside daily routines. Given the pervasive effects executive functioning challenges have on independent living, professionals need methods of assessing these skills.

OBJECTIVE: This study’s purpose was to evaluate an ecologically-valid procedure to assess novel task planning and execution by adults with ABI.

METHODS: The researchers implemented a single group design across two phases. Participants included nine adults with severe ABI. In the first experimental phase, participants created a plan for executing tasks that required adherence to pre-determined rules; in the second phase, participants executed the tasks. The researchers tallied information units recorded during the planning phase, performed momentary time-sampling to document observations about participant behaviors, and collected speed, accuracy, and rule violation data about task completion.

RESULTS: Planning strategies implemented by most participants were limited to word-for-word copying of some or all of the specified tasks. On average, participants attempted and accurately performed less than half the required tasks and exhibited high rule violation rates.

CONCLUSIONS: Given further development and refinement, the implemented procedures may serve as a basis for developing an ecologically-valid tool for evaluating executive functioning in adults with ABI.
Coping and adaptive strategies of traumatic brain injury survivors and primary caregivers
Authors: Adams Deana , Dahdah Marie
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Qualitative research methods allowed the investigator to contribute to the development of new theories and to examine change in processes over time, which added rich detail to existing knowledge of the use of coping and adaptive strategies by traumatic brain injury survivors and their primary caregivers ( Ponsford, Sloan, & Snow, 2013 ). The advantages of phenomenological study were that it allows flexibility to explore and understand meanings attached by people to well-studied concepts such as coping, resiliency, and adaptation or compensation. Phenomenological study was sensitive to contextual factors. It also permitted the study of in-depth dynamics of coping and adaptive strategies of TBI survivors and primary caregivers, while understanding the social and psychological implications of the phenomenon.

OBJECTIVE: To explore the needs and deficits of adult traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors and primary caregivers; and to identify their self-initiated coping and adaptive strategies. Significant to this study was the development of coping and adaptive strategies by the participants after their discharge from inpatient and rehabilitation treatment. The compensatory skills taught in treatment settings did not transfer to the home environment. Therefore, these strategies developed independently from previous treatment recommendations contributed to the development of theory related to rehabilitation and counseling. Distinctive to this study was the similarity of coping and adaptive strategies developed from both mild and severe traumatic brain injury survivors.

METHODS: This study consisted of eleven with TBI and six primary caregivers (N = 17), who participated in a series of semi-structured interviews aimed at discovering the coping and adaptive strategies utilized in dealing with the effects of brain injury. A Qualitative Phenomenological design was employed.

RESULTS: Patience and understanding, support, and professional help were identified by TBI survivors and caregivers as being their most relevant needs. Self-reported deficits included short-term memory loss (STM), fatigue, anger, and personality changes, and the strategies that TBI survivors and caregivers identified tended to address their problems with these specific day-to-day deficits. Problem focused, emotion focused, and avoidant coping were utilized to some degree in their adjustment to home life and activities of daily living. Participants offered suggestions for mental health professionals addressing how to more effectively work with brain injury survivors and their primary caregivers.

CONCLUSION: TBI survivors and caregivers had multiple self-reported unaddressed needs following their discharge from facility-based treatment. They reported spontaneously engaging in various coping and adaptive strategies to address their needs and deficits. However, further education regarding potential post-TBI challenges and strategies for addressing them are needed, including a need for community and mental health resources.
Driving assessment and rehabilitation using a driving simulator in individuals with traumatic brain injury: A scoping review
Authors: Imhoff Sarah , Lavallière Martin , Teasdale Normand , Fait Philippe
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Due to the heterogeneity of the lesion following a traumatic brain injury (TBI) and the complexity of the driving task, driving assessment and rehabilitation in TBI individuals is challenging. Conventional driving assessment (on-road and in-clinic evaluations) has failed demonstrating effectiveness to assess fitness to drive in TBI individuals.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine if driving simulators represent an interesting opportunity in assessing and rehabilitating driving skills in TBI individuals.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, CINAHL and Cochrane library databases between 27-02-2014 and 08-04-2014 for articles published since 2000 with the contents of simulator driving assessment and rehabilitation.

RESULTS: Out of 488, eight articles with the subject of simulator driving assessment and two with the subject of simulator driving rehabilitation in individuals with TBI were reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS: Driving simulators represent a promising avenue for the assessment and rehabilitation of driving skills in TBI individuals as it allows control of stimuli in a safe, challenging and ecologically valid environment and offer the opportunity to measure and record driving performance. Additional studies, however, are needed to document strengths and limitations of this method.
Impact of central facial palsy and dysarthria on quality of life in patients with stroke: The KOSCO study
Authors: Chang Won Hyuk , Sohn Min Kyun , Lee Jongmin , Kim Deog Young , Lee Sam-Gyu , Shin Yong-Il , Oh Gyung-Jae , Lee Yang-Soo , Joo Min Cheol , Han Eun Young , Kim Yun-Hee
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: There are a few reports on the impact of central facial palsy and dysarthria on quality of life (QOL) in stroke patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of central facial palsy on QOL compared with dysarthria during the chronic phase in patients with first-ever strokes.

METHODS: This study represents an interim analysis of the Korean Stroke Cohort for Functioning and Rehabilitation study. We selected data from patients with functional independence of 0 or 1 by the modified Rankin Scale at 6 months after stroke onset, who showed an impairment only in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale items 4 (facial palsy) or 10 (dysarthria). Assessments included the European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D) and the Geriatric depression scale-short form (GDS-SF).

RESULTS: Data from 149 patients were selected for this analysis from 3,929 patients who were followed up at 6 months. Thirty-nine and 110 patients were classified into the facial palsy and dysarthria groups, respectively. The groups did not differ significantly in baseline characteristics or functional assessments. EQ-5D was significantly lower in the facial palsy group than in the dysarthria group at 6 months after stroke ( p = 0.036). GDS-SF was significantly higher in the facial palsy group than in the dysarthria group ( p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study revealed that central facial palsy clearly has a more negative impact on QOL than dysarthria in chronic stroke patients with functional independence.
Action research in rehabilitation with chronic stroke recovery: A case report with a focus on neural plasticity
Authors: Pedersen Malene , Bundgaard Tina H. , Zeeman Peter , Jørgensen Jørgen R. , Sørensen Peter M.B. , Berro Hamza M. , Larsson Bodil W.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Chronic stroke patients are primarily referred to general rehabilitation, rather than to specific neurorehabilitation. Currently, there are no Danish clinical guidelines for chronic stroke, but recent research in neuroplasticity has contributed to possible rehabilitation interventions for these patients.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this project is to describe the use of a specialized neuroplastic approach in combination with an already existing training program.

METHODS: The project is designed as an action research project concerning four participants with chronic stroke. Through ten intervention, a neuroplastic focus has been added to their group training program including daily home training. Participants were tested before and after the intervention with MAS, DGI, 6MWT, SSQLS.

RESULTS: All four participants improved their functional levels and their quality of life following the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS: This report indicates that a specific neuroplastic focus in combination with action research has an impact on the participants with chronic stroke. However, there is still no clarity regarding what type of rehabilitation methods can be considered the most efficacious in promoting neuroplasticity. This case report serves as a pilot project for further studies of how to implement neuroplasticity in physical therapy.
Swallowing characteristics in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Jani Mansi Pankaj , Gore Geeta Bharat
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Motor neurone disease also commonly known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a neurological condition which affects various motor functions of the body. Dysphagia (disordered swallowing) is commonly seen in patients with ALS having bulbar symptoms.

OBJECTIVES: Research reveals presence of dysphagia in patients with ALS at various stages of swallowing using instrumental assessment. However, very few studies have been done focussing on clinical profiling of swallowing in these patients. Hence, a need was felt to profile the specific characteristics.

METHODOLOGY: Five patients diagnosed with ALS were assessed for presence of swallowing disorder using a swallowing checklist which focussed on assessing each stage of swallowing.

RESULTS: Results revealed that patients with ALS exhibit difficulties in oral preparatory, oral and pharyngeal stages of swallowing. Inability to hold bolus, reduced mastication, residue in the oral cavity and nasal regurgitation while swallow were observed due to the affected oromotor functions. Swallow reflex was delayed in all the patients. Cough before and during swallow was also observed.

CONCLUSION: Dysphagia is a common symptom in patients with ALS and occurs due to the affected oromotor functions. Specific information of the stages of swallowing helps in planning treatment in clinical practice.
Life satisfaction and associated factors in persons with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Rosengren Lina , Brogårdh Christina , Jacobsson Lars , Lexell Jan
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Life satisfaction (LS) is an overall goal in the long-term management and rehabilitation of persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, very little is known about LS in persons with PD and no study has examined factors associated with their LS.

OBJECTIVE: To describe LS in persons with mild to moderate PD and to evaluate the association with gender, age, years since diagnosis, and sense of coherence, perceived participation, and mental and emotional status.

METHODS: Eighty persons with mild to moderate PD (46 men and 34 women, mean age 70.1 years, mean time since diagnosis 7.4 years) responded to a postal survey with the Swedish versions of the Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS), the Sense of Coherence scale (SOC-13), the Reintegration to Normal Living Index (RNLI) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-20). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to evaluate the association with LS.

RESULTS: The mean SWLS total score was 21.8 points, and 45% rated themselves as satisfied to highly satisfied with their lives. SOC and years since diagnosis explained 36% of the variance, where a strong SOC, indicating a person’s capacity to adapt to the overall strains of the disease, showed the strongest association with a high LS.

CONCLUSIONS: Persons with mild to moderate PD seem to be generally satisfied with their lives but LS may decrease as the disease progresses. The strong association with SOC implies that LS may increase through rehabilitation that support persons with PD to understand and confront the nature of problems arising in their lives as a result of their PD.
Real-life experience with fampridine (Fampyra®) for patients with multiple sclerosis and gait disorders
Authors: Fragoso Yara Dadalti , Adoni Tarso , Alves-Leon Soniza Vieira , Apostolos-Pereira Samira Luisa , Barreira Amilton Antunes , Brooks Joseph Bruno Bidin , Claudino Rinaldo , Correa Eber Castro , Ferreira Maria Lucia Brito , Finkelsztejn Alessandro , Finkelsztejn Juliana , da Gama Paulo Diniz , Goncalves Marcus Vinicius Magno , Guerreiro Carlos Tostes , da Cunha Matta Andre Palma , Marques Vanessa Daccach , Rizo Morales Rogerio , Parolin Monica Fiuza Koncke , de Castro Ribeiro Marlise , Ribeiro Taysa Alexandrino Gonsalves Jube , Ruocco Heloisa Helena , Sato Henry , Scherpenhuijzen Simone , Siquineli Fabio , de Carvalho Sousa Nise Alessandra , Varela Daniel Lima , Tauil Carlos Bernardo , Winckler Thereza Cristina
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Fampridine is a broad-spectrum voltage-dependent potassium channel blocker that enhances synaptic transmission. The drug has been shown to be able to ameliorate conduction in demyelinated axons, thereby leading to improved gait in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

OBJECTIVE: To assess the “real-life” efficacy and safety of fampridine prescribed for gait disorders in MS. This was an observational and prospective study carried out at MS Units participating in the Brazilian Multiple Sclerosis Study Group.

METHODS: Patients with MS and gait disorders were prescribed fampridine (10 mg twice a day), irrespectively of the degree of disability determined by MS. Neurological disability determined by MS was assessed with the expanded disability scale score (EDSS). Outcomes for efficacy and safety of the drug were evaluated by the 25 foot-walk test and by the adverse events of fampridine.

RESULTS: The time taken to walk 25 feet decreased by 20% or more in 62 patients (70%). Twenty-five patients were considered to be non-responders to this treatment. Improvement in walking speed was independent of improvement of disability. Mild or moderate adverse events were reported in 8% of patients.

CONCLUSION: Fampridine is an efficient and safe therapeutic option for patients with MS and gait disorders.
Relationships between trunk performance, gait and postural control in persons with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Freund Jane E. , Stetts Deborah M. , Vallabhajosula Srikant
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive disease of the central nervous system. Compared to healthy individuals, persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) have increased postural sway in quiet stance, decreased gait speed and increased fall incidence. Trunk performance has been implicated in postural control, gait dysfunction, and fall prevention in older adults. However, the relationship of trunk performance to postural control and gait has not been adequately studied in PwMS.

OBJECTIVE: To compare trunk muscle structure and performance in PwMS to healthy age and gendered-matched controls (HC); to determine the effects of isometric trunk endurance testing on postural control in both populations; and to determine the relationship of trunk performance with postural control, gait and step activity in PwMS.

METHODS: Fifteen PwMS and HC completed ultrasound imaging of trunk muscles, 10 m walk test, isometric trunk endurance tests, and postural sway test. Participants wore a step activity monitor for 7 days.

RESULTS: PwMS had worse isometric trunk endurance compared to HC. PwMS trunk flexion endurance negatively correlated to several postural control measures and positively correlated to gait speed and step activity.

CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians should consider evaluation and interventions directed at impaired trunk endurance in PwMS.
Meta-analysis about cognitive intervention effect applied to dementia patients
Authors: Song Ye-Won , Lee Jae-Shin , Song A-Young
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE: The study tries to explore what effects multiple cognitive intervention, computer-based intervention, and memory training program had on dementia patients through meta-analysis.

METHOD: Data was collected using an overseas search engine and 13 pieces of research published from January 2001 to April 2015 were selected. On papers that fit the selection criteria qualitative evaluation was conducted using Jadad evaluation and using pre-post average, standard deviation, and sample size of cognitive function, meta-analysis was conducted.

RESULTS: The 13 studies selected included 6 multiple interventions, 4 computer-based interventions, and 3 memory training programs. In the Jadad evaluation all had 3 points or higher and there were 474 research participants and in the result of effect size analysis memory training intervention was found to be ‘large effect size’, computer-based intervention ‘medium effect size’, and multiple cognitive intervention ‘small effect size’. All three intervention methods were all statistically significant ( p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: It was found that the effect on dementia patients was in the order of memory training intervention, computer-based intervention, and multiple cognitive intervention. Clinically, this can be objective basis for treatment method for cognitive intervention of dementia patients.
Exploring interest and goals for videoconferencing delivered cognitive rehabilitation with rural individuals with mild cognitive impairment or dementia
Authors: Burton Rachel , O’Connell Megan E. , Morgan Debra G.
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND: Goal oriented cognitive rehabilitation is a promising intervention for individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia due to Alzheimer Disease (AD). Videoconferencing delivered cognitive rehabilitation is a potential avenue for increasing accessibility for rural patients and their families.

OBJECTIVE: First, we were concerned with the accessibility of the treatment for individuals in rural and remote areas. Second, client-centered goal setting was explored by asking this sample about their goals for cognitive rehabilitation.

METHOD: We mailed questions to all active patients with diagnoses of MCI or dementia due to AD of a rural memory clinic and compare features of the responders versus the non-responders. We asked about interest in videoconferencing delivered treatment and about goals for cognitive rehabilitation, which were thematically analyzed.

RESULTS: The responders ( N = 25) were similar to non-responders in severity, depression, and caregiver burden. Of the responders, 80% were interested in videoconferencing developed treatment. A thematic analysis coded 95% of responses as amenable to cognitive rehabilitation. Participants’ goals were focused on memory, household activities, other cognitive domains, recreation, and higher order tasks.

CONCLUSIONS: This work informs the development of both in-person and videoconferencing delivered cognitive rehabilitation for individuals diagnosed with MCI or dementia.
Review of intelligent microblog short text processing
Authors: Huang Wei , Li Zongke , Zhang Libiao , Li Yuefeng
Published: August 2016

This article summarizes the research methods for processing short texts in the microblog, one of the most popular social media sites, analyzes the bottleneck problems and challenging issues, and discusses the possible direction and strategies for solving the above problems. Comprehensive literature review on short text processing has also been conducted by the way of case tracking and case studies. Text categorization and text clustering are the main research methods for processing short texts in microblogs, and topic detection, sentiment analysis, smart healthcare, business intelligence and location services are hot topics for the application of these methods. We also found some challenges for processing microblog short texts, including semantic processing, noise reduction, clarification of fuzzy themes and handling big data. The real-time online processing of big data is expected to be the main research direction in the future.
Optimal Design and Hybrid Control for the Electro-Hydraulic Dual-Shaking Table System
Authors: Zhang Lianpeng , Cong Dacheng , Yang Zhidong , Zhang Yanyan , Han Junwei
Published: August 2016

This paper is to develop an optimal electro-hydraulic dual-shaking table system with high waveform replication precision. The parameters of hydraulic cylinders, servo valves, hydraulic supply power and gravity balance system are designed and optimized in detail. To improve synchronization and tracking control precision, a hybrid control strategy is proposed. The cross-coupled control using a novel based on sliding mode control based on adaptive reaching law (ASMC), which can adaptively tune the parameters of sliding mode control (SMC), is proposed to reduce the synchronization error. To improve the tracking performance, the observer-based inverse control scheme combining the feed-forward inverse model controller and disturbance observer is proposed. The system model is identified applying the recursive least squares (RLS) algorithm and then the feed-forward inverse controller is designed based on zero phase error tracking controller (ZPETC) technique. To compensate disturbance and model errors, disturbance observer is used cooperating with the designed inverse controller. The combination of the novel ASMC cross-coupled controller and proposed observer-based inverse controller can improve the control precision noticeably. The dual-shaking table experiment system is built and various experiments are performed. The experimental results indicate that the developed system with the proposed hybrid control strategy is feasible and efficient and can reduce the tracking errors to 25% and synchronization error to 16% compared with traditional control schemes.
Water-Soluble Ionic Composition of Aerosols at Urban Location in the Foothills of Himalaya, Pokhara Valley, Nepal
Authors: Tripathee Lekhendra , Kang Shichang , Rupakheti Dipesh , Zhang Qianggong , Huang Jie , Sillanpää Mika
Published: August 2016

The total suspended particulate (TSP) samples were collected from April 2013 to April 2014 at the urban location of Pokhara valley in western Nepal. The major aims were to study, quantify, and understand the concentrations and variations of TSP and major water-soluble inorganic ions (WSIIs) in the valley with limited data. The annual average TSP mass concentration was 135.50 ± 62.91 µg/m3. The average analyzed total WSIIs accounted for 14.4% of total TSP mass. Major anions and cations in TSP samples were SO42− and Ca2+, respectively. Seasonal differences in atmospheric conditions explain the clear seasonal variations of ions, with higher concentrations during pre-monsoon and winter and lower concentrations during the monsoon period. Neutralization factor calculations suggested that Ca2+ in the Pokhara valley mostly neutralizes the acidity in the atmosphere. Principle component analysis, NO3−/SO42− ratio, and non-sea salt fraction calculations suggested that the WSIIs in the valley were mostly derived from anthropogenic activities and crustal mineral dust, which was also supported by the results from precipitation chemistry over the central Himalayas, Nepal. In addition, back trajectories analysis has suggested that the air pollution transported from and through Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) during the dry periods, which has resulted in high ionic loadings during this period. Average NO3−/SO42− ratio was found to be 0.69, indicating the dominance of stationary sources of TSP in Pokhara valley. Secondary inorganic aerosols can have an adverse health impact on the human population in the valley. The data set from this one-year study provides new insights into the composition of WSIIs in the foothills of the Himalayas, which can be of great importance for understanding the atmospheric environment in the region.
Investigation of the Optical Properties of Aerosols over the Coastal Region at Dalian, Northeast China
Authors: Zhao Hujia , Che Huizheng , Wang Yaqiang , Wang Hong , Ma Yanjun , Wang Yangfeng , Zhang Xiaoye
Published: August 2016

Measurements of the aerosol optical depth (AOD) and the Ångström exponent were retrieved from level 1.5 data obtained by the CE318 sun photometer at Dalian monitoring station from April 2007 to April 2012 to characterize the aerosol spatial and temporal characteristics in this coastal region of Northeast China. The results suggest that the highest mean ± SD value for the AOD over Dalian occurred in the month of July (0.86 ± 0.45), whereas a lower value was observed in the month of January (0.42 ± 0.31). The monthly mean Ångström exponent was at a maximum (about 1.27) in September and October and the minimum value of about 0.60 was recorded in March. The frequency distributions of the AOD and Ångström exponent at Dalian both presented a single peak distribution, with peak values of 0.26 and 1.06, respectively. The scatter grams of the AOD and Ångström exponent suggested that the aerosol size in Dalian was affected by both fine and coarse particles in different seasons. The spectral difference in Ångström exponent wavelength pairs between 440–675 and 675–870 nm indicate that high AOD440 nm values (>1.50) could be clearly identified by the fine mode growth in summer and the addition of coarse mode particles in spring over Dalian. The AOD440 nm value on a foggy day was almost 2.15 times larger than that on a day with high levels of dust. The Ångström exponents (440–870 nm) were about 0.13 and 1.46 on the days with high levels of dust and on the foggy days, respectively.