bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redeeming organisational soul
Authors: Wray-Bliss Edward
Published: April 2018

‘Organisational soul’ has been used in popular management texts to celebrate corporations that are governed through the values and beliefs of their leaders. Apart from Bell, Taylor and Driscoll in this journal, organisational soul has received little critical scrutiny or conceptual exploration. This article examines the concept through significant texts and traditions in the West’s long religio-philosophical engagement with soul – including poststructuralist and Nietzschean thought, Classical Greek philosophy, Aurelius Augustine’s first hermeneutics of the subject and key constitutive moral practices of Late Antiquity and Early Christianity. Through such sources, I argue that we can understand neoliberal corporations to have souls, that this soul can be regarded as imperialist, that it is constituted through ethical-moral discourse and that it is subject to being disciplined – as we have come to understand human souls to be – through processes of governmentality. As such, this article posits that it may yet be possible to redeem organisational soul.
Experimental determination of the effects of boundary reflection on the angular resolution of microphone arrays
Authors: Aldeman Matthew R. , Raman Ganesh
Published: April 2018

The Rayleigh criterion has long been considered the standard criterion for angular resolution of imaging systems, including microphone arrays. However, advanced beamforming methods have been developed in the past 20 years that have dramatically improved the angular resolution of microphone array systems. In this investigation, the angular resolution performance of three scaled microphone arrays and one alternative array geometry were tested with both approximately free-field and reflective boundary conditions. All of the arrays were subjected to a thorough regimen of testing with broadband acoustic sources. Beamforming analysis was performed with the Delay-and-Sum, TIDY, DAMAS, DAMAS2, and CLEAN-SC algorithms. The Delay-and-Sum algorithm is shown to offer the lowest angular resolution performance because it does not separate the acoustic source map from the point spread function of the array. The DAMAS algorithm offers the greatest angular resolution because it numerically deconvolutes the acoustic source map from the point spread function. However, deconvolution-based algorithms (DAMAS and DAMAS2) were the most negatively affected by boundary reflection effects. The logarithmic spiral array is shown to offer versatile performance across a wide range of frequencies, while an alternative quasi-periodic array yields results that are highly frequency-dependent. It is demonstrated that this is because of gaps in the source-to-element differences coverage, and the gaps in coverage correspond to half-wavelengths of frequency bands with significantly lower angular resolution performance.
Data visualization as creative art practice
Authors: Li Qi
Published: April 2018

This article begins by tracing the evolution of data visualization from the fields of aesthetics to areas of creative practice, arguing that the emergence of big data presents creative potential for digital artists. Whereas conventional information visualization emphasizes the effective understanding of data, aesthetics considers the possibility that visualization can enhance the experience of data and support the acquisition of knowledge. In expressing an artistic intent or form, data-based creative practices synthesize and build upon techniques in communications and aesthetics. The article provides a review of recent digital art projects involving big data and suggests further directions for creative practice in an era of data proliferation.
Self-efficacy as a predictor of patient-reported outcomes in adults with congenital heart disease
Authors: Thomet Corina , Moons Philip , Schwerzmann Markus , Apers Silke , Luyckx Koen , Oechslin Erwin N , Kovacs Adrienne H
Published: April 2018

Objective:

Self-efficacy is a known predictor of patient-reported outcomes in individuals with acquired diseases. With an overall objective of better understanding patient-reported outcomes in adults with congenital heart disease, this study aimed to: (i) assess self-efficacy in adults with congenital heart disease, (ii) explore potential demographic and medical correlates of self-efficacy and (iii) determine whether self-efficacy explains additional variance in patient-reported outcomes above and beyond known predictors.

Methods:

As part of a large cross-sectional international multi-site study (APPROACH-IS), we enrolled 454 adults (median age 32 years, range: 18–81) with congenital heart disease in two tertiary care centres in Canada and Switzerland. Self-efficacy was measured using the General Self-Efficacy (GSE) scale, which produces a total score ranging from 10 to 40. Variance in the following patient-reported outcomes was assessed: perceived health status, psychological functioning, health behaviours and quality of life. Hierarchical multivariable linear regression analysis was performed.

Results:

Patients’ mean GSE score was 30.1 ± 3.3 (range: 10–40). Lower GSE was associated with female sex ( p = 0.025), not having a job ( p = 0.001) and poorer functional class ( p = 0.048). GSE positively predicted health status and quality of life, and negatively predicted symptoms of anxiety and depression, with an additional explained variance up to 13.6%. No associations between self-efficacy and health behaviours were found.

Conclusions:

GSE adds considerably to our understanding of patient-reported outcomes in adults with congenital heart disease. Given that self-efficacy is a modifiable psychosocial factor, it may be an important focus for interventions targeting congenital heart disease patients’ well-being.
Sexual Victimization and Mental Illness Prevalence Rates Among Incarcerated Women: A Literature Review
Authors: Karlsson Marie E. , Zielinski Melissa J.
Published: April 2018

Incarcerated women evidence high rates of both interpersonal trauma and mental illness. In particular, the rates of sexual violence victimization are so high that some researchers have suggested that sexual abuse may be a pathway to prison for women, likely through the development of mental illness, including substance abuse. This review article summarizes the literature on sexual victimization ( n = 32 articles; 28 independent studies) and mental illness ( n = 11 articles; 8 independent studies) prevalence among samples of incarcerated women ( Ns ≥ 100) in context of methodological choices within included articles. Best estimates for sexual victimization from studies using established survey methods were as follows: 50–66% for child sexual abuse, 28–68% for adult sexual abuse, and 56–82% for lifetime sexual assault. Although data directly comparing prevalence of sexual victimization among incarcerated women to prevalence for other groups are limited, the existing data indicate that incarcerated women have significantly greater exposure than incarcerated men and community samples of women. Moreover, compared to findings from the National Comorbidity Survey-Replication, incarcerated women evidence greater prevalence of most lifetime and current mental illnesses, especially depressive disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance use disorders. Surprisingly, only two independent studies have investigated the overlap between sexual victimization and mental illness in samples of incarcerated women. Both studies found disproportionally high rates of mental illness among victims of sexual violence. Suggestions and implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed.
A Community-Based Approach to HIV Prevention in Rural Guatemala
Authors: Orrego Dunleavy Victoria , Chudnovskaya Elena , Simmons Jazmyne Vanecia
Published: April 2018

Background. HIV is one of the primary causes of death in Guatemala, and during the period 2005 to 2013, Guatemala exhibited a 95% increase in such deaths. HIV transmission rates are nearly 3 times higher among the indigenous Mayan population than nonindigenous Guatemalans. Guided by the community-based participatory research approach, this article demonstrates the iterative formative research process necessary to develop a deeper and more informed understanding of HIV prevention attitudes and behaviors in the priority population. This project extends preliminary formative research that demonstrated the applicability of the health belief model (HBM) in examining risk, stigma, and barriers and facilitators to condom use and HIV testing. Method. Using an integrated mixed-method design, data were collected from heterosexual adults 18- to 25 years old ( N = 250), including 50 in-depth interviews and 200 rapid assessment surveys. Results. HBM concepts of risk and stigma were confirmed. Data also revealed low rates of condom negotiation and high embarrassment in purchasing and discussing condom use. Furthermore, data yielded very low uptake rates and reduced levels of comfort with getting tested. Conclusion. This research informs refinement of a culture-specific intervention prioritizing indigenous Mayans. We highlight how community-based research and engagement enhance community health promotion.
Intervention Helps Family Caregivers of People With Dementia Attain Own Therapy Goals
Authors: Wilz Gabriele , Weise Lisette , Reiter Christina , Reder Maren , Machmer Anna , Soellner Renate
Published: April 2018

Introduction:

Caregiver intervention studies typically assess whether participants attain general goals (eg, improved mental/physical health) but not their own individual goals. We used goal attainment scaling to evaluate whether participants of a telephone intervention based on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) attained their personal goals. We also evaluated treatment compliance and implementation.

Methods:

A sample of 139 family caregivers of people with dementia received 12 telephone sessions over 6 months. Participants personal goals were specified during the first and second sessions. Participants and therapists assessed goal attainment at the end of the intervention.

Results:

Nearly all participants reported meaningful improvements with regard to their personal goals. Specifically, 20.9% exceeded, 56.4% completely attained, and 21.8% partially attained at least one of their personal goals. There was high agreement between self- and therapist ratings. Treatment compliance and implementation were highly satisfactory.

Conclusions:

The CBT telephone intervention successfully helped participants attain their personal goals.
Scaphoid Cysts: Literature Review of Etiology, Treatment, and Prognosis
Authors: Safran Tyler , Hazan Jessica , Al-Halabi Becher , Al-Naeem Hassan , Cugno Sabrina
Published: April 2018

Background: Cystic lesions of the carpal bones are rare entities that are infrequently reported in the literature. Scaphoid intraosseous cystic lesions represent a rare subset of carpal bone cysts. This review aims to summarize the available evidence on the evaluation and treatment of scaphoid cystic lesions to help guide clinical management. Methods: Systematic electronic searches were performed using PubMed, Ovid, and Embase databases. Studies included were graded for their risk of bias. Pooled descriptive statistics were performed on incidence, etiology, physical exam findings, treatment, and follow-up. Results: A total of 38 patients representing 41 scaphoid cystic lesions were pooled from 27 articles. Patients presented with wrist pain without fracture (n = 27), pathological fracture (n = 9), swelling only (n = 1), or were asymptomatic (n = 4). Cystic lesions of the scaphoid were initially revealed on imaging with radiographs alone (n = 22), radiographs in combination with computed tomography (CT) (n = 10) or magnetic resonance imaging (n = 6), CT alone (n = 1), or using all 3 modalities (n = 2). Intraosseous ganglia were identified most frequently (n = 31), followed by “bone cyst-like pathological change” (n = 3), unicameral bone cysts (n = 2), aneurysmal bone cysts (n = 2), primary hydatid cysts (n = 2), and cystic like changes post fall (n = 1). Treatment modalities included curettage and bone graft (n = 39) or below-elbow cast (n = 2). On follow-up (average of 21.3 months; n = 40), all patients improved clinically after treatment and were found to have full wrist range of motion without pain (n = 31), slightly reduced grip strength (n = 3), limited range of motion (n = 2), or persistent mild discomfort (n = 2). Conclusions: Scaphoid cystic lesions are most commonly intraosseous ganglia, but can include other etiologies as well. The main presenting symptom is radial wrist pain that usually resolves after treatment. The presence of intracarpal cystic lesions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of wrist pain.
Effect of cement asphalt mortar damage location on dynamic behavior of high-speed track
Authors: Han Jian , Zhao Guotang , Xiao Xinbiao , Jin Xuesong
Published: April 2018

One of the problems with high-speed tracks in service is the damage of their cement asphalt mortar layer. The development of cement asphalt mortar damage can lead to gradually failure of the slab supporting. In fact, the cement asphalt mortar damage is uniform. The effect of cement asphalt mortar damage location seriously affects the dynamic behavior of the track and even operational safety. It is important to clearly understand the effect of cement asphalt mortar damage location on dynamics, which is helpful to direct track maintenance. In this study, a three-dimensional coupling dynamic model of a vehicle and a slab track is developed. Using the proposed model, the wheel–rail contact forces and the displacements and accelerations of the track are calculated to study the influences of the size and location of the damaged cement asphalt mortar zone on the dynamic characteristics of the track system.
Modeling the dynamics and control of rehabilitative exoskeleton with robotic crutches
Authors: Cohen Adi , Or Yizhar
Published: April 2018

Rehabilitative robotics is an area in the medical field, where one can see a variety of different robotic applications, one of which is the use of robotic exoskeleton in rehabilitation of paraplegics. Current developments are only able to support paraplegics at most and require manual operation of crutches by the patient. In order to overcome this limitation, a theoretical model of a robotic device with actuated robotic crutches is proposed, which can be used to support people with high-level disability, such as quadriplegics who cannot use the existing solutions to perform walking gaits. This work presents kinematic trajectory planning of the proposed model and dynamic analysis of main movement stages. Finally, we present an open-loop control scheme that uses time scaling in order to track the desired joint trajectory of the under-actuated motion stage of crutch swinging. A simulated robotic model has also been developed using Simulink [version R2012b to R2014a]/SimMechanics ([version first generation] developed by Mathworks inc.) environment and has been used for verifying dynamic computations and simulating the robotic device movement under the open-loop control commands of joint torques.
An improved graph-based visual localization system for indoor mobile robot using newly designed markers
Authors: Li Yuehua , Zhu Shiqiang , Yu Yiqi , Wang Zhi
Published: April 2018

To address the localization problem for a mobile robot in an indoor environment, an improved visual localization system based on artificial markers is proposed in this article. First, we will present a novel artificial marker which can be detected and identified easily and correctly. We will then introduce how it is designed, recognized, and verified. The markers are arranged on the ceiling and the mobile robot moves around on the ground to capture images with an up-facing monocular camera. The markers’ information, including the position and direction, will be obtained by processing the images. The camera’s uncertainty model is then put forward based on the distortion of the camera. The uncertainty of the obtained markers’ information is analyzed through the uncertainty model. Finally, with the obtained information, the marker map in global image coordinate system is established and optimized through a graph-based algorithm in which the edges can be updated to reduce the uncertainty using Bayes Estimation method. To verify the effectiveness of the localization system, numerous experiments have been conducted. Additionally, the proposed method has also been applied to industrial forklift to test its robustness in a factory environment.
MiR-7 inhibited peripheral nerve injury repair by affecting neural stem cells migration and proliferation through cdc42
Authors: Zhou Nan , Hao Shuang , Huang Zongqiang , Wang Weiwei , Yan Penghui , Zhou Wei , Zhu Qihang , Liu Xiaokang
Published: April 2018

Objective

Neural stem cells play an important role in the recovery and regeneration of peripheral nerve injury, and the microRNA-7 (miR-7) regulates differentiation of neural stem cells. This study aimed to explore the role of miR-7 in neural stem cells homing and proliferation and its influence on peripheral nerve injury repair.

Methods

The mice model of peripheral nerve injury was created by segmental sciatic nerve defect (sciatic nerve injury), and neural stem cells treatment was performed with a gelatin hydrogel conduit containing neural stem cells inserted into the sciatic nerve injury mice. The Sciatic Function Index was used to quantify sciatic nerve functional recovery in the mice. The messenger RNA and protein expression were detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was used to confirm the binding between miR-7 and the 3’UTR of cell division cycle protein 42 (cdc42). The neural stem cells migration and proliferation were analyzed by transwell assay and a Cell-LightTM EdU DNA Cell Proliferation kit, respectively.

Results

Neural stem cells treatment significantly promoted nerve repair in sciatic nerve injury mice. MiR-7 expression was decreased in sciatic nerve injury mice with neural stem cells treatment, and miR-7 mimic transfected into neural stem cells suppressed migration and proliferation, while miR-7 inhibitor promoted migration and proliferation. The expression level and effect of cdc42 on neural stem cells migration and proliferation were opposite to miR-7, and the luciferase reporter assay proved that cdc42 was a target of miR-7. Using co-transfection into neural stem cells, we found pcDNA3.1-cdc42 and si-cdc42 could reverse respectively the role of miR-7 mimic and miR-7 inhibitor on neural stem cells migration and proliferation. In addition, miR-7 mimic-transfected neural stem cells could abolish the protective role of neural stem cells on peripheral nerve injury.

Conclusion

MiR-7 inhibited peripheral nerve injury repair by affecting neural stem cells migration and proliferation through cdc42.
Computed tomographic angiography in stroke and high-risk transient ischemic attack: Do not leave the emergency department without it!
Authors: Graham Brett R , Menon Bijoy K , Coutts Shelagh B , Goyal Mayank , Demchuk Andrew M
Published: April 2018

Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and effective treatment requires rapid diagnosis and recognition of relevant vascular lesions. In this review we will discuss the usefulness and versatility of computed tomography angiography in the setting of stroke, be it ischemic or hemorrhagic, minor or disabling. Furthermore, we also highlight how we use computed tomography angiography in decision making in transient ischemic attacks, acute disabling ischemic stroke, and hemorrhagic stroke.
Peripheral arterial disease: Changes in clinical outcomes and therapeutic strategies in two cohorts, from 2002 to 2008 and from 2008 to 2014. A population-based study
Authors: Baviera Marta , Bertelè Vittorio , Avanzini Fausto , Vannini Tommaso , Tettamanti Mauro , Fortino Ida , Bortolotti Angela , Merlino Luca , Roncaglioni Maria Carla
Published: April 2018

Background

The aim of our study was to evaluate whether treatments for peripheral artery disease changed in two different cohorts identified in 2002 and 2008, and whether this had an impact on mortality and major clinical outcomes after six years of follow-up.

Methods

Using administrative health databases of the largest region in Northern Italy, we identified patients admitted to hospital for peripheral artery disease in 2002 and 2008. Both cohorts were followed for six years. All cause death, acute coronary syndrome, stroke and major amputations, cardiovascular prevention drugs and revascularization procedures were collected. Incidence of events was plotted using adjusted cumulative incidence function estimates. The risk, for each outcome, was compared between 2002–2008 and 2008–2014 using a multivariable Fine and Gray’s semiparametric proportional subdistribution hazards model.

Results

In 2002 and 2008, 2885 and 2848 patients were identified. Adjusting for age, sex, Charlson comorbidity index and severity of peripheral artery disease we observed a significant reduction (in 2008 vs. 2002) in the risk of acute coronary syndrome (28%), stroke (27%) and major amputation (17%). No change was observed in the risk of death. The percentages of patients with peripheral artery revascularizations, during the hospital stay, increased: 43.8% in 2002 vs. 49.0% in 2008, p < 0.001. From 2002 to 2008 there was a significant absolute increase in the prescription of lipid-lowering drugs (+18%), antiplatelets (+7.2%) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (+11.8%), p < 0.001.

Conclusions

In six years of follow-up we observed a reduction in risk of major cardiovascular events in 2008–2014 in comparison with the 2002–2008 cohort. Increasing use of revascularization interventions and cardiovascular prevention drugs could have contributed to the better prognosis.
Individual invitation letters lead to significant increase in attendance for screening colonoscopies: Results of a pilot study in Northern Hesse, Germany
Authors: Stratmann K , Bock H , Filmann N , Fister P , Weber C , Tacke W , Simonis B , Höftmann M , Schröder O , Hausmann J , Zeuzem S , Blumenstein I
Published: April 2018

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer in Germany. Screening colonoscopies are considered an effective tool for early detection and prevention of CRC and are recommended in Germany for citizens over the age of 55. To increase the participation rate for screening colonoscopies, an invitation procedure was initiated in parts of Germany for patients between the ages of 55 and 75 who had never undergone a screening colonoscopy before.

Methods

We examined the number of participating patients before, during, and after the invitation procedure and compared the number of the participating patients who received a cover letter with the participating patients from the control group. Additionally, we classified the findings of the colonoscopies including CRC, advanced adenomas, and polyps.

Results

During the invitation period, the participation rate of the invitation group increased from 220 patients to 531 patients compared to 1256 to 1693 in the control group. The increase was significantly greater in patients with cover letters (+141% vs.+35%, p < 0.0001). Also, significantly more polyps and adenomas were found in patients from the invitation letter group (254 (+102%) vs. 679 (–9%), p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our study clearly indicates that personal invitation letters are an effective measure to increase overall participation rates in screening colonoscopies.
Implementing new models of care: Lessons from the new care models programme in England
Authors: Starling Anna ,   on behalf of The Health Foundation
Published: April 2018

In 2014, the body that leads the National Health Service in England published a new strategic vision for the National Health Service. A major part of this strategy was a three-year-long national programme to develop new care models to coordinate care across primary care, community services and hospitals that could be replicated across the country. Local ‘vanguard sites’ were selected to develop five types of new care model with support from a national team. The new care models programme provided support for local leaders to enable them to collaborate to improve care for their local populations. We interviewed leaders in the vanguard sites to better understand how they made changes to care locally. Drawing on the insights from these interviews and the literature on cross-organisational change and improvement we devised a framework of 10 lessons for health and care leaders seeking to develop and implement new models of care. The framework emphasises the importance of developing relationships and building capability locally to enable areas to continuously develop and test new ideas.
Multiple sclerosis: Executive dysfunction, task switching and the role of attention
Authors: Clough M , Foletta P , Frohman AN , Sears D , Ternes A , White OB , Fielding J
Published: April 2018

Background

It has been suggested that switching ability might not be affected in multiple sclerosis (MS) as previously thought; however, whether this is true under more ‘real-world’ conditions when asymmetry in task difficulty is present has not been ascertained.

Objective

The objective of this paper is to examine the impact of task difficulty asymmetry on task switching ability in MS.

Method

An ocular motor (OM) paradigm that interleaves the simple task of looking towards a target (prosaccade, PS) with the cognitively more difficult task of looking away from a target (antisaccade, PS) was used. Two switching conditions: (1) PS switch cost, switching to a simple task from a difficult task (PS switch), relative to performing two simple tasks concurrently (PS repeat); (2) AS switch cost, switching to a difficult task from a simple task (AS switch) relative to performing two difficult tasks concurrently (AS repeat). Forty-five relapsing–remitting MS patients and 30 control individuals were compared.

Results

Controls and patients produced a similar magnitude PS switch cost, suggesting that task difficulty asymmetry does not detrimentally impact MS patients when transitioning from a more difficult task to a simpler task. However, MS patients alone found switching from the simpler PS trial to the more difficult AS trial easier (shorter latency and reduced error) than performing two AS trials consecutively (AS switch benefit). Further, MS patients performed significantly more errors than controls when required to repeat the same trial consecutively.

Conclusion

MS patients appear to find the maintenance of task-relevant processes difficult not switching per se, with deficits exacerbated under increased attentional demands.
It’s a Problem of Culture (for Them): Orientalist Framing in News on Violence Against Women
Authors: Chagnon Nicholas
Published: April 2018

This research examines chronological patterns in the social construction of violence against women in the United States and abroad as represented by coverage in the New York Times. It is found that while criminal justice–oriented discourse dominates coverage, the news is less often applying a social problem frame to violence against women occurring in the United States and increasingly linking such violence to culture when it happens in Islamic societies. Thus, coverage contributes to cultural acceptance of an Orientalist binary that juxtaposes “progressive” Western nations with “backward” Eastern ones. Such a finding is consistent with feminist scholarship on Orientalism and discourse surrounding violence against women. This article concludes by considering how such Orientalism serves contemporary neoliberal governmentality.
Re-examining Reputation–Performance Liaison in Indian Context
Authors: Kaur Amanpreet , Singh Balwinder
Published: April 2018

Prolific research examining the impact of a good corporate reputation on financial performance has bestowed equivocal findings. Despite this inclusivity, corporate reputation continues to gain impeccable importance in sustaining superior performance. Corporate reputation has emerged as an important asset in emerging markets such as India, where firms are facing competition at the global level. An endeavor has been made through current study to re-examine the reputation–performance liaison in a different economic setting deploying a different measure of corporate reputation. Panel regression technique has been applied on top 500 Indian companies constituting Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) 500 index to observe the impact of corporate reputation on subsequent financial performance during the period ranging from April 1, 2002 to March 31, 2012. The findings of the study reveal that past reputation (captured through listing age) has a significant positive impact on all three measures of financial performance (return on assets [ROA], return on equity [ROE], and asset turnover ratio [ATR]). Hence, the results are in line with previous studies that consider reputation as a strategic resource necessary to enhance firm performance. The study bears significant implications for corporate managers that they should manage the reputation of their organization effectively and use it as a strategic tool to gain competitive advantage.
Alteration of gait parameters in a mouse model of surgically induced knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Makii Yuma , Asaka Meiko , Setogawa Susumu , Fujiki Soichiro , Hosaka Yoko , Yano Fumiko , Oka Hiroyuki , Tanaka Sakae , Fukui Naoshi , Yanagihara Dai , Saito Taku
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

Joint pain is the most common symptom of osteoarthritis (OA); however, its mechanism remains unclarified. The present study investigated hindlimb motion during locomotion on the treadmill using a three-dimensional (3D) motion analysis system with high-speed cameras to evaluate whether this method can be used as an indication of joint pain in a mouse model of surgically induced OA.

Methods:

We resected the medial meniscus and medial collateral ligament in 8-week old C57BL/6 male mice and performed locomotion recording 6 months post-operatively. Additionally, we performed the same recording after oral administration of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor to determine whether alteration of the parameters were associated with joint pain.

Results:

OA development, characterized by cartilage degeneration and osteophyte formation, was markedly enhanced in the OA group. There was no significant difference between the sham and OA groups in basic gait parameters, including stance duration, swing duration and gait cycle. However, when we divided the gait cycle into four phases and calculated the joint ranges of motion in each phase, the range of motion of the knee joint during the stepping-in phase and the swing duration were significantly decreased in the OA group. These significant differences between the sham and OA groups were diminished by the oral administration of a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor to the OA group.

Conclusion:

The present method may be useful to evaluate joint pain in experimental mice and contribute to elucidating the molecular mechanisms of pain in the OA knee joint in combination with genetically modified mice.
Anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty with posterior capsular plication versus reverse shoulder arthroplasty in patients with biconcave glenoids: A matched cohort study
Authors: Alentorn-Geli Eduard , Wanderman Nathan R , Assenmacher Andrew T , Sperling John W , Cofield Robert H , Sánchez-Sotelo Joaquín
Published: April 2018

Purpose:

To compare the outcomes of total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) with posterior capsule plication (PCP) and reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) in patients with primary osteoarthritis, posterior subluxation, and bone loss (Walch B2).

Patients and methods:

All shoulders undergoing anatomic TSA with PCP were retrospectively identified (group 1, G1) and compared to shoulders undergoing RSA (group 2, G2) for Walch B2 osteoarthritis. There were 15 patients in G1 (mean (SD) age and follow-up of 70.5 (7.5) years and 42.8 (18.4) months, respectively) and 16 patients in G2 (mean (SD) age and follow-up of 72.6 (5.4) years and 35.1 (14.2) months, respectively).

Results:

Both groups had substantial improvements in pain and function. In G1, results were excellent in 80% and satisfactory in 20%, compared to 81% and 6% in G2, respectively ( p = 0.2). The mean (SD) American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score was 91.2 (6.7) and 80.3 (14.3) in G1 and G2, respectively ( p = 0.08). The mean Simple Shoulder Test score was 10.6 in G1 and 8.5 in G2 ( p = 0.01). There were no reoperations in either group, but G1 had seven postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

The outcomes of TSA with PCP are comparable to RSA in patients with osteoarthritis and biconcave glenoids. However, TSA leads to more complications while RSA leads to lower functional outcomes.
Oral Health Literacy, Preventive Behavior Measures, and Chronic Medical Conditions
Authors: Messadi D.V. , Macek M.D. , Markovic D. , Atchison K.A.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between oral health literacy, preventive orientation and behaviors, and chronic medical conditions—specifically, hypertension and diabetes. A cross-sectional study was conducted with dental school patients attending the dental clinics in Los Angeles, California, and Baltimore, Maryland. Their health literacy levels were measured using the short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (Short-TOFHLA) and the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine and Dentistry (REALM-D). The medical history and existing medical conditions—specifically, hypertension and diabetes status—were extracted from patient health history and electronic records. Ten items were asked about preventive behaviors (e.g., brushing teeth in evening, smoking, exercise, drinking soda) and 3 preventive health services (dental checkup, flu shot, medical checkup). Six locus of control items were asked (e.g., good health is a matter of good fortune, what happens to my health is God’s will). Out of 793 subjects, 221 had a documented history of hypertension, 88 with diabetes. There was an association between Short-TOFHLA scores and both diabetes and hypertension, but after controlling for sociodemographic and preventive variables, the association was no longer significant. In multivariate analysis, women, people with at least some college, Asians or non-Hispanic Whites, younger people, those who spoke English as a child, those who sought health information from the Internet or health care professionals, and those who smoked reported lower utilization of preventive health services, and those who had less locus of control reported higher Short-TOFHLA scores. There were no significant differences in mean REALM-D scores between patients who had hypertension or diabetes versus not having the condition. Multivariate models showed that people with higher REALM-D scores had at least some college, were other race/ethnicity or non-Hispanic White, spoke English as a child, and sought health information via the Internet.

Knowledge Transfer Statement: The results of this study show that dental school patients exhibit a range of health literacy abilities and preventive behaviors, and health literacy measures positively correlated with some preventive behaviors but not others. Dental schools receive a significant number of patients with chronic diseases, and students should be educated to use effective patient communication skills to reinforce positive health behaviors among these patients.
Examining regional competitiveness and the pressures of rapid growth: An interpretive institutionalist account of policy responses in three city regions
Authors: Krueger Rob , Gibbs David , Carr Constance
Published: April 2018

This paper is premised on the notion that actors play a central role in shaping their institutional contexts. The paper adds to scholarship in this area by bringing together three disparate cases with a common analytical entry point: the city region. Despite their multiple scales and different sites of governance, these cases are united by a common theme, exemplified in each city region: addressing the contradictions of rapid development, in particular rapid growth and competitiveness. Using the conceptual framework of interpretive institutionalism, we examine how dilemmas, in this case the pressure of rapid growth in regions, are informed by the different traditions for understanding the role of the market in delivering project outcomes. Our findings show this difference in institutional norms and the variance among the different paradigms.
Novel insights into the pathogenesis of T-cell lymphomas
Authors: Van Arnam John S. , Lim Megan S. , Elenitoba-Johnson Kojo S. J.
Published: April 2018

T-cell lymphomas are a heterogeneous group of rare malignancies with overlapping clinical, immunologic, and histologic features. Recent advances in our understanding of T-cell differentiation based on gene expression profiling, next-generation sequencing, and transgenic mouse modeling studies have better elucidated the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the diverse biology of T-cell lymphomas. These studies show that although genetic alterations in epigenetic modifiers are implicated in all subtypes of T-cell lymphomas, specific subtypes demonstrate enrichment for particular recurrent alterations targeting specific genes. In this regard, RHOA and TET2 alterations are prevalent in nodal T-cell lymphomas, particularly angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphomas, peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) not otherwise specified, and nodal PTCLs with T-follicular helper phenotype. JAK-STAT signaling pathways are mutationally activated in many extranodal T-cell lymphomas, such as natural killer/T-cell and hepatosplenic T-cell lymphomas. The functional significance of many of these genetic alterations is becoming better understood. Altogether these advances will continue to refine diagnostic criteria, improve prognostication, and identify novel therapeutic targets, resulting in improved outcomes for patient with T-cell lymphomas.
M1 and M2 macrophages differentially regulate hematopoietic stem cell self-renewal and ex vivo expansion
Authors: Luo Yi , Shao Lijian , Chang Jianhui , Feng Wei , Liu Y. Lucy , Cottler-Fox Michele H. , Emanuel Peter D. , Hauer-Jensen Martin , Bernstein Irwin D. , Liu Lingbo , Chen Xing , Zhou Jianfeng , Murray Peter J. , Zhou Daohong
Published: April 2018

Key Points

M2-MΦs promote and M1-MΦs inhibit HSC self-renewal via differential expression of Arg1 and NOS2, respectively. Coculture of hUCB CD34+ cells with M2-MΦs resulted in a significant expansion of CD34+ cells and SCID–mice repopulating cells.
Randomized Phase II Trial of Fulvestrant Plus Everolimus or Placebo in Postmenopausal Women With Hormone Receptor–Positive, Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer Resistant to Aromatase Inhibitor Therapy: Results of PrE0102
Authors: Kornblum Noah , Zhao Fengmin , Manola Judith , Klein Paula , Ramaswamy Bhuvaneswari , Brufsky Adam , Stella Phillip J. , Burnette Brian , Telli Melinda , Makower Della F. , Cheema Puneet , Truica Cristina I. , Wolff Antonio C. , Soori Gamini S. , Haley Barbara , Wassenaar Timothy R. , Goldstein Lori J. , Miller Kathy D. , Sparano Joseph A.
Published: April 2018

Purpose

The mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor everolimus targets aberrant signaling through the PI3K/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, a mechanism of resistance to anti-estrogen therapy in estrogen receptor (ER)–positive breast cancer. We hypothesized that everolimus plus the selective ER downregulator fulvestrant would be more efficacious than fulvestrant alone in ER-positive metastatic breast cancer resistant to aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy.

Patients and Methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II study included 131 postmenopausal women with ER-positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative, AI-resistant metastatic breast cancer randomly assigned to fulvestrant (500 mg days 1 and 15 of cycle 1, then day 1 of cycles 2 and beyond) plus everolimus or placebo. The study was designed to have 90% power to detect a 70% improvement in median progression-free survival from 5.4 months to 9.2 months. Secondary end points included objective response and clinical benefit rate (response or stable disease for at least 24 weeks). Prophylactic corticosteroid mouth rinses were not used.

Results

The addition of everolimus to fulvestrant improved the median progression-free survival from 5.1 to 10.3 months (hazard ratio, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.40 to 0.92]; stratified log-rank P = .02), indicating that the primary trial end point was met. Objective response rates were similar (18.2% v 12.3%; P = .47), but the clinical benefit rate was significantly higher in the everolimus arm (63.6% v 41.5%; P = .01). Adverse events of all grades occurred more often in the everolimus arm, including oral mucositis (53% v 12%), fatigue (42% v 22%), rash (38% v 5%), anemia (31% v. 6%), diarrhea (23% v 8%), hyperglycemia (19% v 5%), hypertriglyceridemia (17% v 3%), and pneumonitis (17% v 0%), although grade 3 to 4 events were uncommon.

Conclusion

Everolimus enhances the efficacy of fulvestrant in AI-resistant, ER-positive metastatic breast cancer.
Functional comparison of distinctBrachyury+ states in a renal differentiation assay
Authors: Zhou Jing , Plagge Antonius , Murray Patricia
Published: April 2018

Mesodermal populations can be generated in vitro from mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) using three-dimensional (3-D) aggregates called embryoid bodies or two-dimensional (2-D) monolayer culture systems. Here, we investigated whether Brachyury-expressing mesodermal cells generated using 3-D or 2-D culture systems are equivalent, or instead, have different properties. Using a Brachyury-GFP/E2-Crimson reporter mESC line, we isolated Brachyury-GFP+ mesoderm cells using flow-activated cell sorting and compared their gene expression profiles and ex vivo differentiation patterns. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed significant up-regulation of Cdx2, Foxf1 and Hoxb1 in the Brachyury-GFP+ cells isolated from the 3-D system compared with those isolated from the 2-D system. Furthermore, using an ex vivo mouse kidney rudiment assay, we found that irrespective of their source, Brachyury-GFP+ cells failed to integrate into developing nephrons, which are derived from the intermediate mesoderm. However, Brachyury-GFP+ cells isolated under 3-D conditions appeared to differentiate into endothelial-like cells within the kidney rudiments, whereas the Brachyury-GFP+ isolated from the 2-D conditions only did so to a limited degree. The high expression of Foxf1 in the 3-D Brachyury-GFP+ cells combined with their tendency to differentiate into endothelial-like cells suggests these mesodermal cells may represent lateral plate mesoderm.
Neurochondrin interacts with the SMN protein suggesting a novel mechanism for spinal muscular atrophy pathology
Authors: Thompson Luke W. , Morrison Kim D. , Shirran Sally L. , Groen Ewout J. N. , Gillingwater Thomas H. , Botting Catherine H. , Sleeman Judith E.
Published: April 2018

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an inherited neurodegenerative condition caused by a reduction in the amount of functional survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. SMN has been implicated in transport of mRNA in neural cells for local translation. We previously identified microtubule-dependent mobile vesicles rich in SMN and SNRPB, a member of the Sm family of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-associated proteins, in neural cells. By comparing the interactomes of SNRPB and SNRPN, a neural-specific Sm protein, we now show that the essential neural protein neurochondrin (NCDN) interacts with Sm proteins and SMN in the context of mobile vesicles in neurites. NCDN has roles in protein localisation in neural cells and in maintenance of cell polarity. NCDN is required for the correct localisation of SMN, suggesting they may both be required for formation and transport of trafficking vesicles. NCDN may have potential as a therapeutic target for SMA together with, or in place of the targeting of SMN expression.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
A study on the effect of Haruan fish extract (Channa striatus) on wound healing and quality of life of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) patients: A prospective, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Farouk Musa Ahmad , Dillion Jeswant , Mohd Taib Mohamed Ezani , Mohd Yunos Alwi , Baie Saringat , Bin Nordin Rusli
Published: April 2018

Background: Wound healing remains a primary problem in all surgical cases especially so when the length of incision is very significant as with cardiac bypass patients. The main objective of this study is therefore to assess the effect of Haruan fish extract (Channa striatus) on chest and leg wounds post-coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery with the optimum and standard patient care in two groups of randomized patients.

Methods: This is a randomized, double blind clinical trial being conducted at the National Heart Institute, Kuala Lumpur. Two randomized groups of similar demographic and co-morbid histories planned for CABG were enrolled into the study. Both groups were blinded to the capsules being given to them pre- and post-operatively. Assessments were also made on wound pain, mobilization and on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients using the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP).  

Results: The group that received Haruan capsule showed better would healing objectively. They had better pain scores, though there was no significant difference in terms of mobilization. Overall, the HRQOL in the study group showed improved quality of life.  

Conclusion: Our study shows the superior effect of using Channa striatus, a local Haruan fish which is easily processed into capsules in promoting wound healing, reducing pain via its anti-nociceptive effect and improving quality of life of patients after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. It is inferred that a faster recovery from surgery confers an advantage in terms of resources to overall economic benefits. Reduction in the percentage of wound infection also resulted in reduced hospital cost. All these factors could lead to the successful commercialization of Haruan as a nutraceutical product.

Trial registration: The trial was conducted from January 2012 until August 2014 and the trial number as registered with the National Medical Research Registry is NMRR-17-360-34772 (Registered 13/03/2017).
Dwujęzyczność kognitywna
Authors: Lipińska Ewa
Published: April 2018

Cognitive bilingualism

The paper makes a clear distinction between cognitive bilingualism and knowledge of two languages. The first term is embedded in the context of education, it can be measured and its development can be followed; the second is understood as mastering, but only partially, of one or both languages. Moreover, the article identifies subjective and objective factors that influence the perception of bilingualism and biculturalism, and emphasizes the ambiguity of the term first language, together with the essence of heritage language. My considerations refer to Polish diaspora, and to situations where one of the languages is Polish and the other (the second/foreign one) is another European language.
Edukacyjna sprawność językowa w ujęciu działaniowym Rady Europy
Authors: Martyniuk Waldemar
Published: April 2018

Educational language competence in the action-oriented approach of the Council of Europe

Democracy, human rights, rule of law, social cohesion, protection and promotion of cultural heritage, intercultural dialogue, and economic growth – all these areas of activity of intergovernmental organizations such as the European Union or the Council of Europe, depend on education. Which, in turn, relies on language competence defined as the ability to conduct linguistic activities necessary to achieve specific educational goals or tasks. The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to the key importance of linguistic competence for education, by discussing selected works and projects of the Council of Europe, and by applying an action-oriented approach – on which these works and projects are based – to selected educational programmes in Poland.