bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Political, Economic, and Social Aspects of Professional Authority
Authors: Dworkin Joan
Published: August 2018

Human service professionals may experience conflict about using their authority and the power that accompanies it when they must reconcile their humanitarian values about practice with requirements and expectations of the environmental context in which they operate. The author suggests that the political and economic environment, gender issues, and the impact of these on the exchange between client and worker are factors that cause uneasiness for practitioners in exercising authority.
Adoption Revelation and Communication Issues: Implications for Practice
Authors: McRoy Ruth G. , Grotevant Harold D. , Lopez Susan Ayers , Furuta Ann
Published: August 2018

Adoption revelation and ongoing communication can be problematic in some adoptive families. The authors examine these issues from a cognitive perspective. Case illustrations are presented from an exploratory study of adopted adolescents in residential treatment. A guide for assessing communication problems is presented and interventive methods are suggested for use by adoption workers and other mental health professionals.
Coping in the Nuclear Age: The Practitioner's Role
Authors: Early-Adams Paula , Wallinga Charlotte , Skeen Patsy , Paguio Ligaya P.
Published: August 2018

Research concerning the effect of the nuclear threat on children and families is reviewed. Findings suggest that children and youth fear that the possibility of nuclear war may have serious consequences in their lives. Moreover, children are unable to address these fears, and parents often feel powerless in helping children cope with such fears. The authors offer suggestions for practitioners in helping clients cope with their fears.
Unemployment and Child Abuse
Authors: Jones Loring
Published: August 2018

The author reviews the evidence linking unemployment with increasing rates of child abuse. Professionals who work with children and families need to become aware of the relationship between psychosocial and economic functioning. The mechanisms accounting for the observed relationship between abuse and joblessness are discussed, and implications for practice with families are identified.
The Use of Nonverbal Expression with Incestuous Clients
Authors: Taylor John W.
Published: August 2018

Clients who have been incestuously involved with children are often emotionally repressed and resistant to verbal-engagement techniques. Art, poetry, collage, and other nonverbal interventions can help such repressed and resistant clients to discover, master, and express critical emotional material.
Combining Agency and Private Practice: A Reevaluation
Authors: Goldmeier John
Published: August 2018

The author surveyed social workers engaged in both agency and private practice and found no major differences in how direct client services were rendered in either setting. Although the exclusionary nature of private practice is an issue of concern, being active in both settings is a viable professional option and an accommodation to the stresses and low financial rewards of full-time agency practice.
Q & A
Authors: Siporin Max
Published: August 2018

Does social work education today provide the knowledge and skills needed by new practitioners to enter the field of practice? Are they prepared to help with the client problems they encounter?
Client-Focused Recording: Linking Theory and Practice
Authors: Tebb Susan
Published: August 2018

The current use and teaching of recording is explored. The development of the use of records for worker accountability and the loss of recording as part of the social work process is traced historically. An alternative to the medical model (problem-oriented record) is proposed based on a client-focused model that espouses social work values.
Genetic Family Histories: An Aid to Social Work Assessment
Authors: Bernhardt Barbara , Rauch Julia B.
Published: August 2018

The focus, depth, and use of genetic family histories vary depending on the agency purpose and the client's presenting problem. Failure to obtain genetic family histories can result in inaccurate assessment and incomplete or misdirected services. In the worst-case scenario, failure to obtain such information and to advise clients of available genetic services are potential grounds for malpractice and wrongful-adoption suits. The authors discuss approaches to obtaining and recording genetic family histories and present criteria for referral to genetic services. The authors recommend that agency administrators consider consulting with a genetic professional to determine the appropriate focus of genetic family histories within the agency, design a protocol, and arrange in-service training in use of the protocol.
Psychosocial Aspects of Genetic Disorders: Implications for Practice
Authors: Bishop Kathleen Kirk
Published: August 2018

Generic disorders can potentially interfere with interpersonal relationships and normal social develop' ment as well as disrupt family life. As scientific and technological advances in medical genetics provide health professionals with a more comprehensive understanding of the origin, implications, and management of genetic disorders, professionals acquire expanded responsibilities. Social workers, who are often involved with individuals and families on a long-term basis, play an instrumental role in helping individuals and families make the necessary emotional and social adjustments following diagnosis of a genetic disease, understand the ramifications of the diagnosis, cope with the accompanying concerns, and find me appropriate services.
The Role of Crisis Centers in Defining and Reporting Child Abuse
Authors: Stevenson Donna G. , Grauerholz Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

The authors explore the role that crisis centers can play in detecting and reporting child abuse. The findings suggest that although the percentage of calls to crisis centers on child-abuse concerns is small, these services provide an important function for the general public. Such services help educate persons about child abuse and encourage reporting.
Family Service Agency Personnel Profiles in the 1980s: Implications for Leadership and Practice
Authors: Alperin Diane Elias
Published: August 2018

A nationwide survey of the executive directors/chief executive officers of Family Service America member agencies was undertaken to assess changes that occurred in personnel and staffing patterns during the conservative decade of the 1980s. The data underscore areas of both continuity and change and have implications for administrators and educators concerned with future leadership and practice roles in family service agencies.
Practice with Culturally Diverse Families of Young Children with Disabilities
Authors: Rounds Kathleen A. , Weil Marie , Bishop Kathleen Kirk
Published: August 2018

Young children from racial minority groups are at higher risk for disabilities and developmental delay as a result of conditions associated with poverty. The authors discuss principles that guide culturally competent practice with families of infants and toddlers with disabilities and ways in which family-centered practice approaches incorporate these guidelines. Practitioner strategies for developing cultural competence in order to work responsively with this diverse population are presented.
Family-Support Programs: Opportunities for Community-based Practice
Authors: Lightburn Anita , Kemp Susan P.
Published: August 2018

The authors present guidelines for social work practice in the growing, interdisciplinary field of family-support programs. The history and contemporary form of family-support programs are described, and a “best practice” approach is delineated. Emergent areas are discussed, and the salience of social work's contribution in family-support programs is identified. Innovative aspects of the family-support approach include family-building and family-strengthening activities, an educational framework for intervention, the mediating function of family support, and multilevel approaches to developing community.
African American Elders: The Support Network of Generational Kin
Authors: Luckey Irene
Published: August 2018

The informal support networks of African American elders have an important impact on the effectiveness of social service interventions. The author identifies and discusses critical functions performed by second-and third-generation adult kin (niece, nephew, and grandchild) in the care and support of low-income African American elderly. Complementary functional roles and tasks performed by grandchildren, nieces, or nephews assist the elderly as well as the primary caregiver in interacting with the formal service system. Practitioners need to be knowledgeable about and sensitive to the complexities of kin support networks of African American elderly.
Clinical and Nonclinical Adoptive Families of Special-Needs Children
Authors: Groze Victor
Published: August 2018

The author applies a resource and stressor family system model developed from crisis theory to adoptive families. Matched samples of clinical and nonclinical families were used to examine resources and stressors in adoptive families. Results indicate modest support for the hypothesis that adoptive families in crisis have more stressors than do adoptive families who are not in crisis. Implications for practice are discussed.
Children's Eyewitness-Memory Research: Implications for Practice
Authors: Powell Martine B. , Thomson Donald M.
Published: August 2018

The authors review the empirical literature relating to child-witness testimony and draw implications for professionals who conduct investigatory interviews with preadolescent children about alleged offenses. Issues related to the quality of communication between the child and interviewer, the interview setting, and specific interviewing techniques are addressed. Practical recommendations are offered regarding the techniques likely to maximize the accuracy and completeness of children's recall of events.
Coping and Adaptation Patterns among Chinese, Indian, and Malay Families Caring for a Mentally Ill Relative
Authors: Bentelspacher Carl E. , Chitran Shireen , Rahman Marziyana binte Abdul
Published: August 2018

Families caring for chronically mentally ill relatives often experience considerable stress and hardship. To adapt, family members must learn new coping strategies and make sufficient use of informal and formal support systems in the community. The authors examined cultural variations in the coping and adaptation process among three main ethnic groups in Singapore (Chinese, Malay, and Indian). Interviews conducted with primary caregivers in 30 families showed cross-cultural differences in the adverse effects on the family system, the use of coping strategies, and the utilization of support networks. A culturally sensitive, indigenous model of community mental health services designed to overcome family resistance is presented.
HIV/AIDS: Implications for Health Care Reform
Authors: Brennan James P.
Published: August 2018

The HIV/AIDS epidemic serves as an appropriate framework for evaluating various health care reform proposals. The author reviews the general health care needs of persons with HIV, current methods of financing AIDS care, and various models of health care reform. Principles for assuring appropriate care and for assessing reform proposals and their effect on HIV-related care are presented.
Avengers, Conquerors, Playmates, and Lovers: Roles Played by Child Sexual Abuse Perpetrators
Authors: Gilgun Jane F.
Published: August 2018

Children often do not disclose significant details of their sexually abusive experiences, nor can they account for the behavior of perpetrators. Yet such information is important for effective practice. Perpetrators can fill in significant details children may not disclose as well as share their own perspectives on the abuse. The research reported here used in-depth, repeated interviews with 23 perpetrators of child sexual abuse and a phenomenological and emancipatory approach. Results indicated that perpetrators of child sexual abuse have a wide variety of types of relationships with child victims. How they relate to victims can shift over the course of an abusive incident, and they may have different types of relationships with different victims. Previous research and theory and socialization practices are integrated into the interview data to show the pervasiveness of the patterns of relationships that perpetrators establish.
Family Day Care in the United States
Authors: Frankel Arthur J.
Published: August 2018

The author discusses the current status of family day care, including its demographics, organization, regulations, quality-control issues, and relevant research on its effects on children, families, and child-care workers. Family day care is a pervasive underground child-care system that merits far more attention by the social work profession in state and national child-care policy considerations. Social workers are in a unique position to help family-day-care providers enter mainstream child care in the United States.
Older Adult Stroke Patients and Their Spousal Caregivers
Authors: Purk Janice K. , Richardson Rhoda A.
Published: August 2018

Using a sample of 44 couples, in each of which one member had suffered a stroke requiring an inpatient rehabilitation stay, the authors examined the morale of stroke patients older than 60 and their spousal caregivers. One hypothesis that guided this research was that the morale levels of older adult stroke patients would correlate with those of their spousal caregivers and with the patient's physical and emotional functioning. Gender and length of time since the stroke were hypothesized to have an effect on morale. Results indicated that morale of caregivers and care receivers were positively correlated. Moreover, functional independence predicted patient and spouse morale levels. Impressions of caregiving and morale of caregivers were correlated. These findings suggest a need to utilize a dyadic approach in research and intervention dealing with stroke patients whose spouses are providing care.
Intervention with Elderly Substance Abusers in the Workplace
Authors: Goldmeier John
Published: August 2018

The author discusses elderly alcohol and drug abusers in the workplace, emphasizing prevention and strategies to identify the abuser while the problem is still in the incipient stage. Social workers' roles in providing treatment are discussed.
Lie symmetry analysis on time scales and its application on mechanical systems
Authors: Zhai Xiang-Hua , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2018

The theory of time scales that can unify and extend continuous and discrete analysis has proved to be more accurate in modeling the dynamic process. The Lie symmetry approach, which is an effective way to deal with different kinds of dynamical equations in a variety of areas of applied science, is to be analyzed on time scales. We begin with the Lie group of point infinitesimal transformations on time scales and its corresponding extensions. And the invariance of dynamical equations on time scales under the infinitesimal transformations is discussed. More specifically, the Lie symmetries for dynamical equations of mechanical systems on time scales including Lagrangian systems on time scales, Hamiltonian systems on time scales, and Birkhoffian systems on time scales are investigated as applications. Thus, the corresponding conserved quantities for mechanical systems on time scales are derived by using the Lie symmetries. Examples are given to illustrate the application of the results.
Results of Hybrid Total HIP Replacement and Resurfacing - Is There a Difference?
Authors: Chirodian N. , Saw T. , Villar R.
Published: August 2018

Hip resurfacing has in recent years become increasingly popular as an arthroplasty technique, particularly amongst younger patients with more active lifestyles. The procedure has been heralded as a more conservative option, aimed at those wishing to continue strenuous work and recreational activities. Little evidence has appeared in the literature however, either with the results of resurfacing or comparing resurfacing to conventional total hip arthroplasty.

We compare the outcomes of a consecutive series of hybrid hip resurfacings against a similar series of conventional hybrid hip arthroplasties. In our series there was no difference in operation time, blood loss, or modified Harris Hip score at 12 months postoperatively. There was a small decrease in length of stay, which was not clinically significant. We conclude that whilst it has been previously shown that there is an overall preservation of bone stock following resurfacing arthroplasty, there is no evidence to back additional claimed benefits.
Pain and Satisfaction after HIP Replacement: The Patient's Perspective at 5 - 12 Years
Authors: Mehta J. S. , Kiryluk S. , Fordyce M. J. F.
Published: August 2018

We present the results of a postal evaluation of 1700 hip replacements performed in 1560 patients at a specialist joint replacement centre. This 5 - 12 year follow-up assesses the patient's perspective of satisfaction, pain levels, revision and dislocation rates, subjective issues related to the prosthetic hip and limitations to daily activities.

Our adjusted response rate was 81.4%, with 89.2% of the respondents being satisfied with their hip replacement; 4.1% were dissatisfied, and 5.0% were unsure. 79% of patients reported no pain or slight pain, 14.5% had moderate pain and 2.6% had severe pain. 4.6% of the hip replacements had been revised, and 4.1% had dislocated. The hip was felt to be a limiting factor in their life by 18.4% of patients. The use of a questionnaire has provided long-term follow-up data at far less cost and considerably less inconvenience to the patient than a clinical review. We conclude that pain and patient satisfaction could be used as a simple screening tool for the vast majority of the patients. In those that have moderate or severe pain or express a lack of satisfaction for any reason, further clinical and radiological assessments could be carried out.
A Dual-Learning Paradigm Simultaneously Improves Multiple Features of Gait Post-Stroke
Authors: Cherry-Allen Kendra M. , Statton Matthew A. , Celnik Pablo A. , Bastian Amy J.
Published: August 2018

Background. Gait impairments after stroke arise from dysfunction of one or several features of the walking pattern. Traditional rehabilitation practice focuses on improving one component at a time, which may leave certain features unaddressed or prolong rehabilitation time. Recent work shows that neurologically intact adults can learn multiple movement components simultaneously. Objective. To determine whether a dual-learning paradigm, incorporating 2 distinct motor tasks, can simultaneously improve 2 impaired components of the gait pattern in people posttroke. Methods. Twelve individuals with stroke participated. Participants completed 2 sessions during which they received visual feedback reflecting paretic knee flexion during walking. During the learning phase of the experiment, an unseen offset was applied to this feedback, promoting increased paretic knee flexion. During the first session, this task was performed while walking on a split-belt treadmill intended to improve step length asymmetry. During the second session, it was performed during tied-belt walking. Results. The dual-learning task simultaneously increased paretic knee flexion and decreased step length asymmetry in the majority of people post-stroke. Split-belt treadmill walking did not significantly interfere with joint-angle learning: participants had similar rates and magnitudes of joint-angle learning during both single and dual-learning conditions. Participants also had significant changes in the amount of paretic hip flexion in both single and dual-learning conditions. Conclusions. People with stroke can perform a dual-learning paradigm and change 2 clinically relevant gait impairments in a single session. Long-term studies are needed to determine if this strategy can be used to efficiently and permanently alter multiple gait impairments.
A preclinical ultrasound method for the assessment of vascular disease progression in murine models
Authors: Janus Justyna , Kanber Baris , Mahbuba Wadhah , Beynon Charlotte , Ramnarine Kumar V , Lambert David G , Samani Nilesh J , Stringer Emma J , Kelly Michael E
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The efficacy of preclinical ultrasound at providing a quantitative assessment of mouse models of vascular disease is relatively unknown. In this study, preclinical ultrasound was used in combination with a semi-automatic image processing method to track arterial distension alterations in mouse models of abdominal aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis.

Methods

Longitudinal B-mode ultrasound images of the abdominal aorta were acquired using a preclinical ultrasound scanner. Arterial distension was assessed using a semi-automatic image processing algorithm to track vessel wall motion over the cardiac cycle. A standard, manual analysis method was applied for comparison.

Results

Mean arterial distension was significantly lower in abdominal aortic aneurysm mice between day 0 and day 7 post-onset of disease (p < 0.01) and between day 0 and day 14 (p < 0.001), while no difference was observed in sham control mice. Manual analysis detected a significant decrease (p < 0.05) between day 0 and day 14 only. Atherosclerotic mice showed alterations in arterial distension relating to genetic modification and diet. Arterial distension was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in Ldlr−/− (++/−−) mice fed high-fat western diet when compared with both wild type (++/++) mice and Ldlr−/− (++/−−) mice fed chow diet. The manual method did not detect a significant difference between these groups.

Conclusions

Arterial distension can be used as an early marker for the detection of arterial disease in murine models. The semi-automatic analysis method provided increased sensitivity to differences between experimental groups when compared to the manual analysis method.
Are diffuse and limited juvenile systemic sclerosis different in clinical presentation? Clinical characteristics of a juvenile systemic sclerosis cohort
Authors: Foeldvari Ivan , Klotsche Jens , Torok Kathryn S , Kasapcopur Ozgur , Adrovic Amra , Stanevicha Valda , Terreri Maria Teresa , Alexeeva Ekaterina , Katsicas Maria , Cimaz Rolando , Kostik Mikhail , Lehman Thomas , Sifuentes-Giraldo Walter-Alberto , Smith Vanessa , Sztajnbok Flavio , Avcin Tadej , Jose Santos Maria , Moll Monika , Nemcova Dana , Battagliotti Cristina , Eleftheriou Despina , Janarthanan Mahesh , Kallinich Tilmann , Anton Jordi , Minden Kirsten , Nielsen Susan , Uziel Yosef , Helmus Nicola
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

Juvenile systemic sclerosis is an orphan disease. Currently, the majority of juvenile systemic sclerosis cohort studies are retrospective in design without standardized assessment. This study was conducted prospectively to investigate the difference in manifestations of limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis and diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis subtypes. An additional aim was to compare these data to other juvenile systemic sclerosis cohorts and a large adult systemic sclerosis cohort.

Methods:

Patients fulfilling the Paediatric Rheumatology European Society juvenile systemic sclerosis classification criteria were included. Clinical characteristics and patient-related outcomes were assessed.

Results:

In all, 88 patients with a mean disease duration of 3.5 years were enrolled, 72.5% with diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis with a mean modified Rodnan Skin score of 18 and 27.5% with limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis with mean modified Rodnan Skin score of 9. The mean age at the onset of Raynaud’s and first non-Raynaud’s symptoms was similar in both groups, approximately 9 and 10.5 years. Active digital tip ulcerations were present in 29% diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis and none in the limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis subjects (p = 0.005). Of those with cardiopulmonary testing, 3% of diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis and 23% of limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis group had cardiac involvement (p = 0.015), and 41% diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis and 22% of the limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis group had pulmonary involvement (p = 0.009). Physician global disease damage assessment was higher in the diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis group compared to the limited cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis group: 35 and 15 (p = 0.021).

Discussion:

The majority of this international juvenile systemic sclerosis cohort had diffuse cutaneous juvenile systemic sclerosis (72.5%) with more frequent vascular and pulmonary involvement compared to the limited cutaneous group, who had increased cardiac involvement. Our cohort reflects prior findings of published juvenile systemic sclerosis cohorts and emphasizes a difference in the presentation compared to adult-onset systemic sclerosis.
Caste and Socio-cultural Mobility in West Bengal: A Hybrid Cultural Elocution of Matua Reforms Movement
Authors: Biswas Manosanta
Published: August 2018

Anthropologists and social historians have considered the caste system to be the most unique feature of Indian social organization. In traditional Bengali Hindu Society, the Namasudras, an untouchable caste, were numerically large but economically deprived and socially discriminated against by the higher castes. Under the leadership of Harichand Thakur (1812–1878) and his son Guruchand Thakur (1847–1937), the ‘Matua’ religious sect developed in the late nineteenth century in eastern part of Bengal to meet certain social needs of the upwardly mobile peasant community of the Namasudras who gained solidarity and self-confidence through the help of the Matua socio-religious identities. The real significance of the Matua sect lies in the fact that a downtrodden community sought to set up an alternative religious conception in an oppositional form and in resistance to the ideology which assigns an independent identity to the downtrodden for their uplift in the high caste elite-dominated society and a reworking of the relation of power within local society which they believed would lead to all-round human development. In this article, I would like to show the evidences which would give an undertaking that the Matua socio-cultural reform movement is continuing against the orthodox scriptural and Brahmanical rituals, customs and culture and resulting in an alternative hybrid cultural identity by reflecting on their own indigenous oral literatures and folk culture which are very much humanitarian, liberal, progressive and rational in outlook.
Effects of Turmeric and Curcumin Dietary Supplementation on Human Gut Microbiota: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Peterson Christine T. , Vaughn Alexandra R. , Sharma Vandana , Chopra Deepak , Mills Paul J. , Peterson Scott N. , Sivamani Raja K.
Published: August 2018

Background.

Curcuma longa (common name: turmeric) and one of its biologically active constituents, curcumin, have received increased clinical attention. Insufficient data exist on the effects of curcumin and turmeric on the gut microbiota and such studies in humans are lacking.

Methods.

Turmeric tablets with extract of piperine (Bioperine) (n = 6), curcumin with Bioperine tablets (n = 5), or placebo tablets (n = 3) were provided to healthy human subjects and subsequent changes in the gut microbiota were determined by 16S rDNA sequencing.

Results.

The number of taxa detected ranged from 172 to 325 bacterial species. The placebo group displayed an overall reduction in species by 15%, whereas turmeric-treated subjects displayed a modest 7% increase in observed species posttreatment. Subjects taking curcumin displayed an average increase of 69% in detected species. The gut microbiota response to treatment was highly personalized, thus leading to responders and nonresponders displaying response concordance. These “responsive” subjects defined a signature involving uniform increases in most Clostridium spp., Bacteroides spp., Citrobacter spp., Cronobacter spp., Enterobacter spp., Enterococcus spp., Klebsiella spp., Parabacteroides spp., and Pseudomonas spp. Common to these subjects was the reduced relative abundance of several Blautia spp. and most Ruminococcus spp.

Conclusions.

All participants’ microbiota displayed significant variation over time and individualized response to treatment. Among the responsive participants, both turmeric and curcumin altered the gut microbiota in a highly similar manner, suggesting that curcumin may drive the majority of observed changes observed in turmeric-treated subjects.
Entry points of nutrient arteries at risk during osteotomy of the lesser metatarsals: a fresh cadaveric study
Authors: Tonogai Ichiro , Hayashi Fumio , Tsuruo Yoshihiro , Sairyo Koichi
Published: August 2018

Background

Osteotomies of the lesser (second to fourth) metatarsals are often used to correct forefoot deformities. However, certain areas of the lesser metatarsals where arteries may be prone to damage during surgery, and the resulting nonunion and delayed union could cause serious problems. This study sought to identify the nutrient arteries of the lesser metatarsals and to determine how osteotomy could injure these vessels.

Methods

Enhanced computed tomography scans of 21 ft (male, n = 10; female, n = 11; mean age 78.6 years at the time of death) were assessed. Twenty‐one lower limbs in 21 cadaveric specimens were injected with barium via the external iliac artery, and the points at which the nutrient arteries entered the lesser metatarsals were identified on axial and coronal images.

Results

Each nutrient artery entered the lateral or medial plantar aspect of the lesser metatarsal in the middle third (just proximal to the middle point of the metatarsal) or proximal third obliquely from a distal direction. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) distances from the dorsal plane of the second, third, and fourth metatarsals to the point of entry of the nutrient artery in the axial plane were 8.2 ± 1.5, 7.6 ± 1.2, and 7.6 ± 1.5 mm, respectively. The mean ± SD distances from the distal epiphysis to the point of entry of the nutrient artery into the second, third, and fourth metatarsals in the coronal plane were 3.3 ± 1.1, 3.1 ± 1.0, and 2.8 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. The mean ± SD distances from the distal epiphysis to the point of entry of the nutrient artery into the second, third, and fourth metatarsals in the coronal plane were 46.0 ± 5.2, 40.9 ± 2.6, and 39.1 ± 3.7 mm, respectively. The mean ± SD distances from the proximal epiphysis to the entry point of the nutrient artery into the second, third, and fourth metatarsals in the coronal plane were 23.8 ± 4.7, 25.8 ± 4.3, and 25.0 ± 3.2 mm, respectively.

Conclusions

Distal metatarsal osteotomies might be safer than shaft or proximal osteotomy to avoid disruption of the nutrient artery, leading to delayed consolidation of the osteotomy and nonunion.
Mutations in dock1 disrupt early Schwann cell development
Authors: Cunningham Rebecca L. , Herbert Amy L. , Harty Breanne L. , Ackerman Sarah D. , Monk Kelly R.
Published: August 2018

Background

In the peripheral nervous system (PNS), specialized glial cells called Schwann cells produce myelin, a lipid-rich insulating sheath that surrounds axons and promotes rapid action potential propagation. During development, Schwann cells must undergo extensive cytoskeletal rearrangements in order to become mature, myelinating Schwann cells. The intracellular mechanisms that drive Schwann cell development, myelination, and accompanying cell shape changes are poorly understood.

Methods

Through a forward genetic screen in zebrafish, we identified a mutation in the atypical guanine nucleotide exchange factor, dock1, that results in decreased myelination of peripheral axons. Rescue experiments and complementation tests with newly engineered alleles confirmed that mutations in dock1 cause defects in myelination of the PNS. Whole mount in situ hybridization, transmission electron microscopy, and live imaging were used to fully define mutant phenotypes.

Results

We show that Schwann cells in dock1 mutants can appropriately migrate and are not decreased in number, but exhibit delayed radial sorting and decreased myelination during early stages of development.

Conclusions

Together, our results demonstrate that mutations in dock1 result in defects in Schwann cell development and myelination. Specifically, loss of dock1 delays radial sorting and myelination of peripheral axons in zebrafish.
Pain Control in a Pediatric Patient With Sickle Cell Disease Using Regional Nerve Blocks for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Hasan Aysha , Nanassy Autumn D. , Disilvio Gregory , Meckmongkol Teerin , Arthur L. Grier , Taneja Pravin A.
Published: August 2018

The sickle cell patient population continues to provide challenges in pain control. Current therapies include narcotic usage with adjuvant therapies such as anti-inflammatories and nonpharmacological interventions. Poor pain management in the sickle cell patient population, especially postoperatively, can lead to hypoventilation, escalating opioid requirements, poor recovery, and longer hospital stays. This case report addresses a novel addition of ultrasound-guided paravertebral and rectus sheath blocks postinduction of general anesthesia and before surgical incision to assist with the intravenous postoperative pain management regimen after laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a 10-year-old boy with sickle cell disease.
Demographic-specific Validity of the Cancer Prevention Study-3 Sedentary Time Survey
Authors: REES-PUNIA ERIKA , MATTHEWS CHARLES E. , EVANS ELLEN M. , KEADLE SARAH K. , ANDERSON REBECCA L. , GAY JENNIFER L. , SCHMIDT MICHAEL D. , GAPSTUR SUSAN M. , PATEL ALPA V.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This study examined the 1-yr test–retest reliability and criterion validity of sedentary time survey items in a subset of participants from a large, nationwide prospective cohort.

Methods

Participants included 423 women and 290 men age 31 to 72 yr in the Cancer Prevention Study-3. Reliability was assessed by computing Spearman correlation coefficients between responses from prestudy and poststudy surveys. Validity was assessed by comparing survey-estimated sedentary time with a latent variable representing true sedentary time estimated from the 7-d diaries, accelerometry, and surveys through the method of triads. Sensitivity analyses were restricted to 566 participants with an average of 14+ h of diary and accelerometer data per day for 7 d per quarter.

Results

Reliability estimates for total sitting time were moderate or strong across all demographic strata (Spearman ρ ≥ 0.6), with significant differences by race (P= 0.01). Reliability estimates were strongest for the TV-related sedentary time item (Spearman ρ, 0.74; 95% confidence interval, 0.70–0.77). The overall validity coefficient (VC) for survey-assessed total sedentary time was 0.62 (95% confidence interval, 0.55–0.69), although VC varied by age group and activity level (P< 0.05). However, VC were similar across groups (P< 0.05) when restricting to highly compliant participants in a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions

The Cancer Prevention Study-3 sedentary behavior questionnaire has acceptable reliability and validity for ranking or categorizing participants according to sedentary time. Acceptable reliability and validity estimates persist across various demographic subgroups.
Salmonella spp. in poultry: a constant challenge and new insights
Authors: VELHNER M. , MILANOV D. , KOZODEROVIĆ G.
Published: August 2018

The knowledge about virulence mechanisms, resistance to antimicrobial agents and the biofilm formation ability of Salmonella spp. in poultry industry has been expanded over the years. However, in spite of the research efforts and significant investments to improve management systems in poultry industry, it has become evident that none of the methods applied in all stages of food production chain are 100% effective in eliminating Salmonella spp. Different serovars are manifesting different mechanisms of invasiveness which depend on their ability to invade lower zones of the lamina propria, their ability to gain accesses to parenchymatous organs and survive in macrophages. The ubiquitous nature of Salmonella spp. due to their adaptation to animal and plant hosts, as well as their survival in hostile environments and their enhanced capacity to produce biofilms, contribute to a long lasting contamination of the environment, feed and animals. The emergency and spread of antimicrobial resistances in Salmonella spp. raise additional concerns.
Genomic identification of Toxic shock syndrome producing and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains in human and sheep isolates
Authors: MOKHTARI A. , EBRAHIMI KAHRIZSANGI A. , HASANI P.
Published: August 2018

Disease-associated Staphylococcus aureus strains often promote infections by producing potent protein toxins such as toxic shock syndrome toxin (TSST). The mecA gene allows a bacterium to be resistant to antibiotics such as methicillin, penicillin and other penicillin-like antibiotics. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus strains producing these two genes. In this study, within 110 cases isolated in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province, Staphylococcus aureus was isolated by microbiological methods. Then PCR was done for 66 samples to identify the mecA and TSST-1 genes. The results showed within 30 samples of human skin infection 18 cases (60%) were MRSA and 5 samples (16.66%) were positive for TSST-1 gene. Within 36 samples of ewe subacute mastitis 10 samples (27.77%) and 5 (13.88%) had mecA and TSST-1 genes respectively. Therefore the prevalence of methicillin resistance and toxic shock syndrome producing Staphylococcus aureus isolates was significant in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari. Due to the presence of these isolates in Iran and their threatening role in public health, more attention for their monitoring and treatment is essential.
A case of pulmonary aspergillosis in white storks
Authors: GULCUBUK A. , ERDOGAN-BAMAC O. , METINER K. , YUZBASIOGLU OZTURK G. , OZGUR Y. , HAKTANIR D.
Published: August 2018

Aspergillosis is a fungal infection affecting respiratory system both in mammals and avian species. It is more commonly encountered in birds, in comparison with its mammalian counterpart. Mostly isolated strains are Aspergillus fumigatus (95%) and Aspergillus flavus (5%). Affected lungs and air sacs reveal miliary to gross lesions like gray-yellowish or white-grayish granulomatous foci surrounded by white halos indicative of inflammatory infiltration. Five storks found dead in the rural areas near Istanbul were submitted to our faculty between years 2008 and 2014. Two of them were thought to be younger than 1-year-old and the other three were older than one year of age. Necropsies were performed right after their submissions. Aspergillosis lesions were observed in the lungs and thoracic air sacs of the first four storks. In addition to these changes the lesions were detected at the aortic bifurcation and on the testicular and renal capsule of the fifth stork. Histopathology revealed encapsulated granulomas with foci of caseous necrosis at the center surrounded by numerous macrophages, heterophil leukocytes, lymphocytes and foreign body giant cells in all the storks. Following the gross, histopathological and mycological examinations the agents were detected as Aspergillus fumigatus. Although, the number of reported deaths due to Aspergillosis is not high in storks, we believe that these birds are quite susceptible to the disease and stress factors such as migration increases the risk of pathogenicity. This report was designed as a contribution to literature since there is only one reported case available with respect to aspergillosis associated death in storks and stress factors such as migration may also predispose storks to the disease.
The zoonotic protozoan of sheep carcasses in the north of Algeria: A case of ovine toxoplasmosis
Authors: DAHMANI A. , HARHOURA K. , AISSI M. , ZENIA S. , HAMRIOURI B. , GUECHI N. , AIT ATHMANE M. , KADOUR R.
Published: August 2018

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic protozoan parasite of great importance in veterinary and public health. The aim of the present study was to determine the seroprevalence for T. gondii in 580 sheep sera slaughtered for human consumption in the slaughterhouses of El Harrach by a commercial kit ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay), and to evaluate the presence of T.gondii in 335 sheep from 580 (335 oesophagi and 335 diaphragms) by.the histopathological analysis. Antibodies to T. gondii were found in 8.28% (48 /580) of sheep. All positive sheep were male. Seropositivity for T. gondii increased with age, but the difference was not statistically significant.. While the seroprevalence was significantly higher in summer and in the North /Center of Algeria. Thus, season and origine of animals were considered as risk factors associated with T. gondii infection. Histopathological analysis showed that only 2 sheep presented dubious cysts of T. gondii. However, tissues cysts compatible with Sarcocystis spp. were visible in the histological sections of 94.03% (315/335) of sheep. These results suggest that infection with T. gondii in sheep is present in the north of Algeria and as sheep with antibodies usually carry tissue cysts, this indicates that undercooked lamb and mutton may indeed be a sources of human toxoplasmosis.
ΣΥΜΒΟΛΗ ΕΙΣ ΤΗΝ ΤΕΧΝΟΛΟΓΙΚΗΝ KΑΙ ΥΓΙΕΙΝΟΛΟΓΙΚΗΝ ΜΕΛΕΤΗΝ ΤΟΥ ΔΙ' ΑΚΤΙΝΟΒΟΛΙΑΣ ΠΑΣΤΕΡΙΩΜΕΝΟΥ ΓΑΛΑΚΤΟΣ ΕΙΣ ΠΕΡΙΟΧΗΝ ΑΘΗΝΩΝ
Authors: ΠΑΠΑΡΓΥΡΗΣ ΣΠΥΡ. , ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ ΑΓΓ.
Published: August 2018

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Service improvement in health care: a literature review
Authors: Craig Lynn
Published: August 2018

Service improvements in health care can improve provision, make cost savings, streamline services and reduce clinical errors. However, on its own it may not be adequate for improving patient outcomes and quality of care. The complexity of healthcare provision makes service improvement a challenge, and there is little evidence on whether improvement initiatives change healthcare practices and improve care. To understand the concept of service development within health care, it is necessary to explore the national context and how the NHS has adopted improvement initiatives. To equip the nursing workforce with the skills necessary to make positive change, higher education institutions have developed courses that include the topic within their pre-registration programmes. However, service improvement is a learned skill that nurses need to practise in order to become competent.
Further government measures to tackle the childhood obesity epidemic
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: August 2018

Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses a recently published government report, which aspires to radically tackle rising levels of obesity in children
Updates offer robust and fair approach to resolving patient safety incidents
Authors: Foster Sam
Published: August 2018

Sam Foster, Chief Nurse, Oxford University Hospitals, welcomes the recommendations emerging from the latest reviews and highlights the importance of investigating systemic, as well as human factors
Selecting an intermittent self-catheter: key considerations
Authors: Davis Cathy , Rantell Angie
Published: August 2018

This article explores the factors that must be considered when assessing patients for intermittent self-catherisation (ISC). It discusses the various types of intermittent catheters and their properties. Key considerations for the health professional when making product recommendations are covered and emphasis is placed on teaching patients the ISC technique. The article also highlights what patients value in terms of product choice and the importance of ongoing support. It concludes by introducing the GentleCath Glide, a new product that incorporates FeelClean™ technology, which leaves less residue on the hands and clothes
Medication management: Reducing drug errors, striving for safer practice
Authors: Edwards Sharon L , Axe Sue
Published: August 2018

The issue of drug errors in the NHS has been highlighted recently in the mainstream press, and has shown that mistakes can, and occasionally do, happen. Yet nurses are in a unique position to prevent drug errors, as they are at the forefront of medication management. To do this, nurses need to understand the issues related to the administration of a drug, e.g. the five or six rights. Nuses should also be aware of drug errors that can occur before and after administration, i.e. considering the full medication journey, as a drug error can occur from naming, labelling, prescribing, transcribing, dispensing, preparing, failing to undertake a medication review and failing to monitor outcomes. This article considers drug errors and their causes, and draws on current literature to discuss some of the strategies nurses can use to prevent such errors from occurring. These strategies are not without their own problems and issues; nevertheless, a lot of information has been accrued about drug errors and it is time to start putting these together and take action by applying them to everyday medication management practice in order to ensure patient safety at all times.
Perceptions of ePortfolio adoption in a non-medical prescribing programme
Authors: Bell Suzanne
Published: August 2018

This article focuses on initial findings from a small study considering students' and staff's perceptions of the future adoption of an ePortfolio summative assessment.

Aim:

The study aimed to determine non-medical prescribing (NMP) students' and staff's perceptions of the potential future adoption of ePortfolio as a technological enhancement of the summative assessment.

Background:

The integration of ePortfolios in post-graduate nurse education is supported using current learning technologies within Higher Education Institutions and professional nursing bodies, yet little research has specifically focused on this group in the UK.

Methods:

This study employed a qualitative research approach with the methodology chosen to reflect pragmatic time-frames and access to the audience needed (NMP students and academic staff). The different qualitative approaches also afforded maximum opportunities for response, with no financial implication or ethical challenges. These approaches comprised a student focus group (seven NMP students), an online questionnaire (an additional seven NMP students) and an online questionnaire (five lecturers within the NMP module team).

Results:

Findings suggest there remains misapprehension around the terminology used to define ePortfolio, which may lead to heightened anxiety within the post-qualifying NMP student population. Overall, students and staff had positive perceptions of the future adoption of ePortfolio as an enhancement of the existing portfolio summative NMP assessment. Several themes emerged relating to the perceptions of staff and students including changing validation requirements of nursing governing body requirements, recognition of developing technologies in education and flexibility of online tools.

Conclusion:

There is scope to explore technological advances, including ePortfolio, within nurse prescribing education that may increase engagement of students and module staff to enhance development as well as allow innovative co-production.