bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Outcomes Between Two 3-Component Total Ankle Implants
Authors: Jung Hong-Geun , Shin Min-Ho , Lee Sang-Hun , Eom Joon-Sang , Lee Dong-Oh
Published: February 2015

Background:

Total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) with the use of third generation implants has demonstrated favorable clinical results and improved survival. However, few studies have compared the different types of implants. The purpose of this study was to perform a retrospective evaluation of patient outcomes and complications by comparing TAA procedures performed with HINTEGRA versus MOBILITY systems.

Methods:

Fifty-two consecutively enrolled patients (28 men and 24 women; mean age 64.8 years) underwent TAA using HINTEGRA (21 ankles) or MOBILITY (33 ankles) between September 2004 and July 2012. Visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores were determined at each follow-up visit. The radiographs were reviewed to assess component positioning, radiolucency, heterotopic ossification, and other factors. The mean follow-up period was 28.3 months in the HINTEGRA group and 32.5 months in the MOBILITY group.

Results:

VAS decreased from 8.3 to 2.0 for the HINTEGRA group and from 7.9 to 2.7 for the MOBILITY group. The AOFAS score increased from 43.8 to 87.3 for the HINTEGRA group and from 46.6 to 83.7 for the MOBILITY group. Intra- and postoperative malleolar fractures were not noted in the HINTEGRA group, whereas 5 ankles (15.2%) in the MOBILITY group sustained this injury ( P = .144). Ankle impingement syndrome was noted in 8 ankles (38.1%) in the HINTEGRA group and 3 (9.1%) in the MOBILITY group ( P = .015). However, no significant differences in postoperative osteolysis and neuralgia were noted between the groups.

Conclusions:

Both implants exhibited favorable clinical outcome without significant differences. However, in terms of complications, ankle impingement syndrome was significantly more common in the HINTEGRA group, while intraoperative malleolar fracture was observed only in the MOBILITY group.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative series.
Low Incidence of Symptomatic Thromboembolic Events After Total Ankle Arthroplasty Without Routine Use of Chemoprophylaxis
Authors: Horne Phillip H. , Jennings Jason M. , DeOrio James K. , Easley Mark E. , Nunley James A. , Adams Samuel B.
Published: February 2015

Background:

There is little evidence regarding the incidence of symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE) following total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) to allow formulation of treatment recommendations. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of symptomatic VTE events after TAA without use of chemoprophylaxis and to identify risk factors contributing to the occurrence of VTEs.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective chart review of 637 patients (664 ankles) who received a TAA between May 2007 and January 2014 and had a minimum follow-up of 3 months. Chemoprophylaxis was prescribed only in the setting of a history of VTE or active coagulopathy. Patients were continued on chemoprophylactic agents if they were taking these medications preoperatively. A VTE event was defined when clinical signs and symptoms of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) were confirmed with use of Doppler ultrasonography or pulmonary embolism was confirmed with the use of a computed tomography scan. Routine screening for VTE was not performed.

Results:

The overall incidence of clinically detected VTE events was 0.60% (4/664), with 0.45% (3 patients) developing a DVT and 0.15% (1 patient) developing a nonfatal pulmonary embolism. Moreover, we identified a subset of 434 patients without identifiable preoperative risk factors who were not taking chemoprophylaxis preoperatively and were not prescribed chemoprophylaxis postoperatively. Two of these patients developed a DVT postoperatively (0.46%). Given the low incidence of clinically detected VTE, no significant correlation could be identified between the occurrence of VTE events and risk factors.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that clinically detectable VTE after TAA is uncommon. Patients without identifiable risk factors do not appear to require chemoprophylaxis following TAA. We recommend continuation of antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy in patients who are taking these medications preoperatively and the initiation of chemoprophylaxis postoperatively in patients with known risk factors for VTE.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Radiographic Outcomes of Postoperative Taping Following Hallux Valgus Correction
Authors: Ponzio Danielle Y. , Pedowitz David I. , Verma Kushagra , Maltenfort Mitchell G. , Winters Brian S. , Raikin Steven M.
Published: February 2015

Background:

Traditionally, hallux valgus operative correction has been accompanied by serial spica taping of the great toe during the postoperative period.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 187 adult patients who underwent proximal first metatarsal osteotomy with a modified McBride procedure in 2008-2009 (n = 83) and 2011-2012 (n = 104). Postoperatively, to maintain the corrected position of the hallux, patients from 2008 through 2009 underwent weekly spica taping, while patients from 2011 through 2012 utilized a toe separator. The hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) were measured using anteroposterior weight-bearing preoperative, 2-week postoperative non-weight-bearing, and 3-month weight-bearing final follow-up radiographs. A mixed-effects linear regression model identified differences between the treatment groups over time, and a t test compared actual radiographic differences at final follow-up.

Results:

The mixed-effects model revealed no significant difference in the HVA over time when comparing patients taped to those not taped at the preoperative (33 ± 6 vs 33 ± 6), 2-week postoperative (10 ± 7 vs 9 ± 6), and 3-month follow-up (14 ± 6 vs 11 ± 7) visits ( P = .08). At final follow-up, the HVA was lower for the group that was not taped, but the difference (2.5 degrees) was below the minimal clinically important difference (MCID) ( P = .015, 95% CI 0.5-4.5). For IMA, there was improved maintenance of correction over time in the patients that were not taped compared to those taped at the preoperative (15 ± 3 vs 15 ± 3), 2-week postoperative (2 ± 2 vs 3 ± 3), and 3-month follow-up (5 ± 4 vs 7 ± 4) visits ( P = .002). At final follow-up, the IMA was lower for the group that was not taped, but the difference (1.7 degrees) was below the MCID ( P = .004, 95% CI 0.7-2.9).

Conclusions:

We report no radiographic benefit of postoperative taping after hallux valgus correction. The present study challenges the previous dogma of postoperative spica taping as the protocol is cost and time intensive for the patient and surgeon.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative series.
Hippocampal Wnt Signaling
Authors: Fortress Ashley M. , Frick Karyn M.
Published: February 2015

Wnt signaling has emerged in recent years as a major player in both nervous system development and adult synaptic plasticity. Of particular relevance to researchers studying learning and memory, Wnt signaling is critical for normal functioning of the hippocampus, a brain region that is essential for many types of memory formation and whose dysfunction is implicated in numerous neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions. Impaired hippocampal Wnt signaling is implicated in several of these conditions, however, little is known about how Wnt signaling mediates hippocampal memory formation. This review will provide a general overview of Wnt signaling and discuss evidence demonstrating a key role for Wnt signaling in hippocampal memory formation in both normal and disease states. The regulation of Wnt signaling by ovarian sex steroid hormones will also be highlighted, given that the neuroprotection afforded by Wnt-hormone interactions may have significant implications for cognitive function in aging, neurodegenerative disease, and ischemic injury.
Nicorandil Versus Nitroglycerin for Symptomatic Relief of Angina in Patients With Slow Coronary Flow Phenomenon
Authors: Sani Hashem Danesh , Eshraghi Ali , Nezafati Mohammad Hassan , Vojdanparast Mohammad , Shahri Bahram , Nezafati Pouya
Published: February 2015

Objective:

Patients with the coronary slow flow phenomenon frequently experience angina episodes. The present study aimed to compare the efficacy of nicorandil versus nitroglycerin for alleviation of angina symptoms in slow flow patients.

Methods:

In a single-center, single-blind, parallel-design, comparator-controlled, randomized clinical trial (NCT02254252), 54 patients with slow flow and normal or near-normal coronary angiography who presented with frequent angina episodes were randomly assigned to 1-month treatment with nicorandil 10 mg, 2 times a day ( n = 27) or sustained-release glyceryltrinitrate 6.4 mg 2 times a day ( n =27). Frequency of angina episodes, pain intensity, and the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) grading of angina pectoris were assessed at baseline and after 1 month of treatment.

Results:

In all, 25 patients in the nicorandil arm and 24 patients in the nitroglycerin arm were analyzed. After 1 month, patients treated with nicorandil had fewer angina episodes (adjusted mean number of episodes per week, nicorandil versus nitroglycerin; 1.68 ± 0.15 vs 2.29 ± 0.15, P = .007, effect size = 14.6%). Patients also reported greater reductions in pain intensity with nicorandil versus nitroglycerin (adjusted mean of self-reported pain score; 3.03 ± 0.29 vs 3.89 ± 0.30, P = .046, effect size = 8.4%). A significantly higher proportion of patients in the nicorandil arm were categorized in CCS class I (76% vs 33.3%, P = .004) or class II (16.0% vs 45.8%, P = .032).

Conclusion:

In slow flow patients, nicorandil provides better symptomatic relief of angina than nitroglycerin.
Trimetazidine Decreases Risk of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Nadkarni Girish N. , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Patel Achint , Yacoub Rabi , Kumbala Damodar , Patel Rajan A. G. , Annapureddy Narender , Pakanati Krishna Chaitanya , Simoes Priya K. , Javed Fahad , Benjo Alexandre M.
Published: February 2015

Objectives:

We sought to synthesize and analyze the available data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for trimetazidine (TMZ) in the prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN).

Background:

Contrast-induced nephropathy after coronary angiography is associated with poor outcomes. Trimetazidine is an anti-ischemic drug that might reduce incidence of CIN, but current data are inconclusive.

Methods:

We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect electronic databases for RCTs comparing intravenous hydration with normal saline (NS) and/or N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) versus TMZ plus NS ± NAC for prevention of CIN. We used RevMan 5.2 for statistical analysis with the fixed effects model.

Results:

Of the 808 studies, 3 RCTs met criteria with 290 patients in the TMZ plus NS ± NAC group and 292 patients in the NS ± NAC group. The mean age of patients was 59.5 years, and baseline serum creatinine ranged from 1.3 to 2 mg/dL. Trimetazidine significantly reduced the incidence of CIN by 11% (risk difference 0.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.16-0.06; P < .01). There was no significant heterogeneity between the studies (I2 statistic = 0). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 episode of CIN was 9.

Conclusions:

The addition of TMZ to NS ± NAC significantly decreased the incidence of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiography. In conclusion, TMZ could be considered as a potential tool for prevention of CIN in patients with renal dysfunction.
Treatment of Postpartum Hemorrhage With Blood Products in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Guasch Emilia , Gilsanz Fernando
Published: February 2015

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide. This retrospective observational study describes patient characteristics and hemostatic therapies administered to 352 parturients experiencing PPH and analyzes risk factors for developing severe PPH. During the study period, bleeding was controlled in all cases and 99.4% survived. The majority (98%) of patients received packed red blood cells. The most frequent hemostatic therapies administered were fibrinogen concentrate (56%), fresh frozen plasma (49%), and platelets (30%). A total of 124 (35%) women experienced severe PPH. Significant independent predictors for evolution to severe PPH were age, obstetric comorbidity, and plasma fibrinogen concentration. The latter was based on records from 267 (76%) patients. Plasma fibrinogen concentration before labor was the only modifiable prepartum risk factor independently associated with severe PPH, indicating that fibrinogen monitoring is warranted in these patients.
Taking the Long View
Authors: Hibbard Judith H. , Greene Jessica , Shi Yunfeng , Mittler Jessica , Scanlon Dennis
Published: February 2015

Patient activation is an important predictor of health outcomes and health care usage, yet we do not know how enduring the benefits of greater patient activation are. This study uses a large panel survey of people with chronic conditions ( n = 4,865) to examine whether a baseline patient activation measure predicts outcomes 4 years later, and whether changes in patient activation measure scores are associated with changes in outcomes. The findings indicate that the benefits of health activation are enduring, yielding benefits in the form of better self-management, improved functioning, and lower use of costly health care services over time. Furthermore, the findings indicate that when activation levels change, many outcomes change in the same direction. Patient activation seems to be an important and modifiable factor for influencing chronic disease outcomes; health care delivery systems can use this information to personalize and improve care.
Sharing the News
Authors: Bobkowski Piotr S.
Published: February 2015

This study examined the joint effect of message and personality attributes on online news sharing. In two experiments ( N = 270, N = 275), readers indicated their likelihood to share news representing two content domains and three informational utility dimensions. A moderated mediation path analysis was used. On average, news consumers shared news containing informational utility. Opinion leaders shared news irrespective of informational utility because they discerned informational utility in news that, objectively speaking, lacked such utility. In one experiment, opinion leaders also were more likely than nonleaders to share news perceived to contain informational utility.
Is Evidence-Based Practice a Threat to the Progress of the Qualitative Community? Arguments From the Bottom of the Pyramid
Authors: Lester Jessica Nina , O’Reilly Michelle
Published: February 2015

Although scholars have gone to great lengths to illustrate the value of qualitative research and ensure that it is well represented in all areas of academic life, there remains a gap of equality when compared with quantitative research, which is still viewed by many as superior, specifically in applied fields such as health. This has become particularly true as the evidence-based movement has continued to find its way into discussions around the legitimacy of qualitative research. In this article, we argue that the evidence-based movement, particularly in medicine and health, continues to pose challenges for us as a qualitative community—challenges that we will need to grapple with in the coming years.
Performative Embodiment and Unraveling Grandparent–Grandchild Relationships
Authors: Owton Helen
Published: February 2015

This article seeks to intertwine women’s embodied experiences of wartime, dancing, and chronic illness. The author introduces “Granny” through the unraveling rhythms of grandparent–grandchild relationships. Through narrative poems, the author shares Granny’s dramatic stories of World War II. Bodies are socially and historically located, which therefore illuminates the ways in which her past is sedimented into her body and provides an understanding into the multi-layered ways her wartime, her performing bodily experiences, and asthma, encompass the past, the present, and the anticipated future. The author reflects on how some of these stories echo the breathless battle weary heroes referred to by Homer in the Illiad, which is where asthma can be traced back to.
Writing Paralysis in (Post) Qualitative Research
Authors: Bridges-Rhoads Sarah
Published: February 2015

In this article, the author takes up the page as a site of experimentation with/against/through paralysis. Struck by the (im)possibility of untangling and taming a deconstructing inquiry to “write it up” as recognizable research, she writes, instead, to pursue previously unthought and unseen openings for thinking and doing qualitative work. The effect is an article that negotiates the tensions of doing qualitative research in the post(s) and questions the possibility and value of resolving such tensions.
Representing Ethnographic Data Through the Epistolary Form
Authors: Carroll Katherine
Published: February 2015

This article experiments with the dialogic epistolary form as a non-traditional representation of ethnographic research on the topic of breastmilk donation. The epistolary genre was chosen because its structure, purpose, and history embodies the key findings of this research, for example, the gulf between milk donors and recipients and the curiosity held by each for the other. The article argues that the dialogic epistolary form provides a more engaging, expansive, and expressive account of the researcher’s role in the ethnographic research process than that offered by traditional academic genres. The article presents research findings in the epistolary form, which provides an accessible and novel presentation of research by inviting readers to occupy the position of both the milk donor and the donor milk recipient. The letters can be used as a resource by health professionals and communities involved in human milk donation or the use of donor milk. The letters are accompanied by an exegesis which offers ethnographers an account of the epistolary genre as a non-traditional form of research representation.
Ipilimumab-induced necrotic myelopathy in a patient with metastatic melanoma: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Abdallah Al-Ola , Herlopian Aline , Ravilla Rahul , Bansal Meghana , Chandra-Reddy Sowmya , Mahmoud Fade , Ong Shirley , Gokden Murat , Hutchins Laura
Published: February 2015

Ipilimumab is a novel humanized monoclonal antibody directed against cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4, a T-cell surface molecule involved in down-regulation and suppression of the T cell response to stimuli. Patients treated with ipilimumab are at risk for immune-related adverse events involving the skin, digestive tract, liver and endocrine organs. Few case reports of immune-related adverse effects involving central or peripheral nervous system due to ipilimumab are published. These include inflammatory myopathy, aseptic meningitis, severe meningo-radiculo-neuritis, temporal arteritis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. We report the first case of ipilimumab-induced progressive necrotic myelopathy.
Idelalisib- a PI3Kδ targeting agent for B-cell malignancies
Authors: Hewett Yvonne G , Uprety Dipesh , Shah Binay K
Published: February 2015

Idelalisib, the first in-class phosphotidlyinositol 3-kinase delta (PI3Kδ) inhibitor, was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in July 2014. It simultaneously received breakthrough therapy designation in combination with rituximab for the treatment of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) as well as accelerated approval as monotherapy for the treatment of relapsed follicular lymphoma and relapsed small lymphocytic lymphoma. In a pivotal phase III study of 220 patients with relapsed CLL, the overall response rate of patients who received rituximab plus idelalisib was 81%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5 months with rituximab plus placebo group, but was not reached in the idelalisib arm. At 24 weeks, the PFS in patients receiving idelalisib was 93%. In a phase II trial of 125 patients with relapsed or refractory indolent non-Hodgkin lymphoma who received idelalisib 150 mg twice daily, the response rate was 57%. Complete response was seen in 6% of patients. The median duration of response was 12.5 months, and median PFS was 11 months. Idelalisib is a promising new therapy for relapsed indolent B-cell malignancies.
Synchronous gastric and ampullary adenocarcinomas in a hairy cell leukemia patient treated with pentostatin eight years prior
Authors: Senatore Frank J , Dasanu Constantin A
Published: February 2015

Hairy cell leukemia patients are at increased risk for second malignancies, including both solid and lymphoid neoplasms. Along with other factors, multiple immune defects present in hairy cell leukemia likely contribute to subsequent carcinogenesis. We report herein a case of synchronous high-grade gastric and ampullary adenocarcinomas in a patient with a history of hairy cell leukemia treated eight years prior with pentostatin. We include a review of immune alterations induced by both hairy cell leukemia and its therapies, and link them with the occurrence of second cancers in these patients.
Effect of xantham gum, steviosides, clove, and cinnamon essential oils on the sensory and microbiological quality of a low sugar tomato jam
Authors: Gliemmo María F , Montagnani María A , Schelegueda Laura I , González Malena M , Campos Carmen A
Published: February 2015

The partial or total decrease of sugar content in the formulation of jams affects their physical, chemical and microbiological stability. In order to minimize these technological problems, we studied the effect of xanthan gum (XG), steviosides, cinnamon (CO), and clove (CLO) essential oils on the sensory and microbiological quality of a low sugar tomato jam. Levels of 0.250 g/100 g steviosides and 0.450 g/100 g XG showed maximum score of overall acceptability of jam. The combination of essential oils produced synergistic and additive effects in vitro on growth of Z. bailii and Z. rouxii, respectively. However, in the jam, CO was more effective and CLO did not modify the CO action. Cell surface was one of the sites of action of CO since a decrease in yeast cell surface hydrophobicity was observed. From the microbiological and sensory points of view, 0.0060 g/100 g CO showed the maximum score of jam overall acceptability and did not cause yeast inactivation but it could be useful as an additional stress factor against yeast post – process contamination. The adequate levels of XG, steviosides, and CO can improve the quality of a low sugar jam formulation.
Student-Perceived School Climate Is Associated With ADHD Medication Treatment Among Adolescents in Medicaid
Authors: Visser Susanna N. , Kramer Dennis , Snyder Angela B. , Sebian Joyce , McGiboney Garry , Handler Arden
Published: February 2015

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between school climate and ADHD medication treatment among adolescents in Medicaid in Georgia. Method: School climate and Medicaid claims data were aggregated for 159 GA counties. County-level school climate percentile and medicated ADHD prevalence were calculated. The t tests and regression models evaluated the relationship between school climate, medicated ADHD, and demographics, weighted by county population. Poorer 2008 school climate (<25th percentile) was regressed on 2011 medicated ADHD prevalence, controlling for potential confounders. Results: The prevalence of medicated ADHD was 7.8% among Medicaid-enrolled GA adolescents. The average county-level prevalence of medicated ADHD was 10.0% ( SD = 2.9%). Poorer school climate was associated with lower rates of medicated ADHD ( p < .0001); along with demographics, these factors accounted for 50% of the county variation in medicated ADHD. Conclusion: School climate is associated with medicated ADHD among adolescents in Medicaid. Additional research may reveal whether high medicated ADHD may reflect a lack of access to non-pharmacological therapies in some communities.
Using the Theory of Planned Behavior to Understand Cervical Cancer Screening Among Latinas
Authors: Roncancio Angelica M. , Ward Kristy K. , Sanchez Ingrid A. , Cano Miguel A. , Byrd Theresa L. , Vernon Sally W. , Fernandez-Esquer Maria Eugenia , Fernandez Maria E.
Published: February 2015

To reduce the high incidence of cervical cancer among Latinas in the United States it is important to understand factors that predict screening behavior. The aim of this study was to test the utility of theory of planned behavior in predicting cervical cancer screening among a group of Latinas. A sample of Latinas ( N = 614) completed a baseline survey about Pap test attitudes subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and intention to be screened for cervical cancer. At 6 months postbaseline, cervical cancer screening behavior was assessed. Structural equation modeling was used to test the theory. Model fit statistics indicated good model fit: χ2(48) = 54.32, p = .246; comparative fit index = .992; root mean square error of approximation = .015; weighted root mean square residual = .687. Subjective norms ( p = .005) and perceived behavioral control ( p < .0001) were positively associated with intention to be screened for cervical cancer, and the intention to be screened predicted actual cervical cancer screening ( p < .0001). The proportion of variance ( R2) in intention accounted for by the predictors was .276 and the R2 in cervical cancer screening accounted for was .130. This study provides support for the use of the theory of planned behavior in predicting cervical cancer screening among Latinas. This knowledge can be used to inform the development of a theory of planned behavior–based intervention to increase cervical cancer screening among Latinas and reduce the high incidence of cervical cancer in this group of women.
A tale of two laws
Authors: Heath Michael T
Published: February 2015

As Amdahl’s law and Moore’s law reach their 50th anniversaries, we review the roles they have played in shaping both perception and reality in high-performance computing. Along the way, we also attempt to clarify some misconceptions that have surrounded both of these highly influential but not always fully appreciated “laws.”
Clinical findings, diagnostics and outcome in 33 cats with adrenal neoplasia (2002–2013)
Authors: Daniel Gideon , Mahony Orla M , Markovich Jessica E , Appleman Elizabeth , Monaghan Kelly N , Lawrence Yuri A , Fiocchi E Hathaway , Weaver Kelli , Johnston Andrea , Barton Bruce
Published: February 2015

Objectives

The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the clinical signs and diagnostic findings in cats with histopathologically confirmed adrenal neoplasms, and to assess correlations with survival data.

Methods

Study data were acquired by reviewing medical records for all cats diagnosed with adrenal neoplasms at seven referral institutions between 2002 and 2013. Inclusion criteria required a histopathologic diagnosis of an adrenal neoplasm (ante-mortem or on necropsy).

Results

Thirty-three cats met the inclusion criteria for the study. The most common presenting complaints included weakness (n = 12), respiratory signs (n = 4), blindness (n = 4) or gastrointestinal signs (n = 3). Laboratory abnormalities included hypokalemia (n = 18), alkalemia (n = 12), elevated creatine kinase (>3000, n = 5) and azotemia (n = 4). In addition, hypertension was noted in 13 cats. Thirty cats were diagnosed with cortical tumors (17 carcinomas, 13 adenomas) and three cats were diagnosed with pheochromocytomas. Twenty-five cats underwent tests to evaluate the function of the adrenal tumors; 19/25 cats had functional tumors (hyperaldosteronism [n = 16], hypercortisolemia [n = 1], high estradiol [n = 1], and hypersecretion of aldosterone, estradiol and progesterone [n = 1]). Twenty-six cats underwent adrenalectomy, one cat was medically managed and six were euthanized without treatment. Long-term survival postoperatively ranged from 4–540 weeks, with 20 (77%) cats surviving the perioperative period of 2 weeks. The only variable that was found to be negatively associated with survival was female sex. The most common complications noted during the perioperative period were hemorrhage and progressive lethargy and anorexia.

Conclusions and relevance

Surgical treatment for feline adrenal tumors (regardless of tumor type) resulted in good long-term survival. Given that pre- and postoperative hypocortisolemia was identified in this study, and, in addition, hypersecretion of more than one adrenal hormone occurred in one cat, adrenal panels prior to surgery may be beneficial as part of the preoperative work-up.
Finite element modelling of frictional thermomechanical rolling/sliding contact using an arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian formulation
Authors: Draganis Andreas , Larsson Fredrik , Ekberg Anders
Published: February 2015

A theoretical and computational framework for the analysis of thermomechanically coupled, frictional, stationary (steady-state) rolling contact based on an Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) kinematical description is presented. The finite element method is employed in a numerical implementation featuring two-dimensional cylinder–plate rolling contact, with a contact formulation incorporating mechanical and thermal frictional interaction. The ALE formulation is noted to allow for linearization of the governing equations, localized mesh refinement, a time-independent description of stationary dynamics, velocity-independent contact interface modelling and so on. Numerical simulations show the model to be able to capture, for example, stick/slip behaviour and a range of thermal phenomena, including the effect of convective cooling of the cylinder due to the contact with the plate.
A comparative study of polymeric additives as biodegradable viscosity boosters for biolubricant formulations
Authors: Rani S , Joy ML , Nair K Prabhakaran
Published: February 2015

Vegetable oils are regarded as renewable energy for future generations due to its biodegradability, high thermal properties, and good lubricity. Some of the disadvantages of vegetable oil are high pour point, low oxidative stability, and limited viscosity range. In this paper, we evaluate and compare the rheological properties of rice bran oil (RBO) with various proportions of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) separately. The thermal stability also has been tested in this paper. Both the polymers have different mode of improving the viscosity and LDPE is found to be a viscosity index booster. The percentage improvement in viscosity for various proportions of polymers has been evaluated at various temperatures. It is seen that LDPE is more suited for engine oil applications since the high temperature rheology is more important in the selection of these lubricants. The viscosity variation of biolubricant formulations with temperature were validated with Walther equation. The biodegradability of both the polymers was estimated and compared with a commercially available mineral oil. The addition of EVA and LDPE in RBO reduces the biodegradability to a smaller extent but it is better than commercially available mineral oil SAE20W40.
Patient perspectives on physician conflict of interest in industry-sponsored clinical trials for multiple sclerosis therapeutics
Authors: Solomon Andrew J , Klein Eran P , Corboy John R , Bernat James L
Published: February 2015

Background:

Pharmaceutical industry financial support of physicians, physician practices, and academic departments involved in multicenter industry-sponsored clinical trials of novel therapeutic agents is a relatively new and infrequently acknowledged source of potential physician conflict of interest. Detailed disclosure of these relationships to study participants is not uniformly a part of informed consent and documentation practices.

Objective:

To understand attitudes of patients with multiple sclerosis concerning disclosure of potential physician–industry conflicts of interest created by clinical trials and how such disclosures may influence study participation

Methods:

An anonymous online instrument was developed.

Results:

597 people with multiple sclerosis participated in the study. The study found that detailed disclosure of conflicts of interest is important to potential participants in industry-sponsored clinical trials for multiple sclerosis therapies and that the presence of these conflicts of interest may influence patients’ decisions to participate in these studies.

Conclusions:

Findings from this study support a call for uniform guidelines regarding disclosure of physician–industry relationships to prospective research participants for industry-sponsored clinical trials.
A randomized, controlled, single-blind, 6-month pilot study to evaluate the efficacy of MS-Line!: a cognitive rehabilitation programme for patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Gich Jordi , Freixanet Jordi , García Rafael , Vilanova Joan Carles , Genís David , Silva Yolanda , Montalban Xavier , Ramió-Torrentà Lluís
Published: February 2015

Background:

MS-Line! was created to provide an effective treatment for cognitive impairment in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.

Objective:

To assess the efficacy of MS-Line!.

Methods:

A randomized, controlled, single-blind, 6-month pilot study. Patients were randomly assigned to an experimental group (cognitive rehabilitation with the programme) or to a control group (no cognitive rehabilitation). Randomization was stratified by cognitive impairment level. Cognitive assessment included: selective reminding test, 10/36 spatial recall test (10/36 SPART), symbol digit modalities test, paced auditory serial addition test, word list generation (WLG), FAS test, subtests of WAIS-III, Boston naming test (BNT), and trail making test (TMT).

Results:

Forty-three patients (22 in the experimental group, 21 in the control group) were analyzed. Covariance analysis showed significant differences in 10/36 SPART ( P=0.0002), 10/36 SPART delayed recall ( P=0.0021), WLG ( P=0.0123), LNS ( P=0.0413), BNT ( P=0.0007) and TMT-A ( P=0.010) scores between groups.

Conclusions:

The study showed a significant improvement related to learning and visual memory, executive functions, attention and information processing speed, and naming ability in those patients who received cognitive rehabilitation. The results suggest that MS-Line! is effective in improving cognitive impairment in MS patients.
Impact of ‘high-profile’ public reporting on utilization and quality of maternity care in England: a difference-in-difference analysis
Authors: Laverty Anthony A , Laudicella Mauro , Smith Peter C , Millett Christopher
Published: February 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of ‘high-profile’ (with extensive media coverage) public reporting versus public reporting without ‘high profile’ coverage on utilization and perceived quality of maternity services in England’s National Health Service.

Methods

Analysis of national hospital administrative data using difference-in-difference models with propensity score matching, and of two maternity surveys from 2007 and 2010. Outcomes were counts of women admitted for delivery of a baby and the percentage of women rating their care positively in 2007 and 2010.

Results

Hospitals highly publicized as providing the best maternity care in England had fewer admissions annually and lower occupancy rates than the national comparison group (63.0% vs. 77.3%; p = 0.09). There was no statistically significant change in overall maternity admissions in the best hospitals (+2.2%, p = 0.40 at six months), or the worst hospitals (−2.8%, p = 0.49 at six months) during any period in the 36 months after public reporting relative to their matched comparison groups. Survey analyses found that compared to the national comparison group of hospitals without ‘high profile’ media coverage, the worst rated hospitals experienced greater improvements in perceived quality after public reporting but these findings were not maintained in the analysis of matched hospitals.

Conclusions

‘High-profile’ public reporting of maternity care in England was not associated with changes in the use of maternity services or improvements in patient-reported quality. These findings provide further evidence that public reporting is unlikely to drive major improvements in health system performance through the mechanism of patient choice.
Telerehabilitation and recovery of motor function: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Agostini Michela , Moja Lorenzo , Banzi Rita , Pistotti Vanna , Tonin Paolo , Venneri Annalena , Turolla Andrea
Published: February 2015

Summary

Recent advances in telecommunication technologies have boosted the possibility to deliver rehabilitation via the internet (i.e. telerehabilitation). Several studies have shown that telerehabilitation is effective to improve clinical outcomes in disabling conditions. The aim of this review was to determine whether telerehabilitation was more effective than other modes of delivering rehabilitation to regain motor function, in different populations of patients.

We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane library retrieving 2360 records. Twelve studies were included involving different populations (i.e. neurological, total knee arthroplasty (TKA), cardiac) of patients. Inconclusive finding were found on the effect of telerehabilitation for neurological patients (SMD = 0.08, CI 95% = −0.13, 0.29), while both for cardiac (SMD = 0.24, CI 95% = 0.04, 0.43) and TKA patients (Timed Up and Go test: MD = −5.17, CI 95% = −9.79, −0.55) the results were in favour of telerehabilitation.

Conclusive evidence on the efficacy of telerehabilitation for treatment of motor function, regardless of pathology, was not reached. Nevertheless, a strong positive effect was found for patients following orthopaedic surgery, suggesting that the increased intensity provided by telerehabilitation is a promising option to be offered to patients. More and higher quality research is needed in this field especially with neurological patients.
Telemedical diabetic retinopathy screening in Hungary: a pilot programme
Authors: Szabó Dorottya , Fiedler Orsolya , Somogyi Anikó , Somfai Gábor Márk , Bíró Zsolt , Ölvedy Veronika , Hargitai Zsófia , Németh János
Published: February 2015

Summary

Our aim was to introduce the Hungarian pilot telemedical screening program for diabetic retinopathy (DRP) and also to evaluate the efficacy of non-mydriatic fundus photographs. A total of 502 eyes of 251 diabetic patients were photographed with a non-mydriatic digital fundus camera in a tertiary diabetology care center. These three 45°-field images were transmitted to the reading center via Internet, where they were graded by two independent ophthalmologists. After non-mydriatic photography (NM method), 28 patients were also examined in mydriasis by an ophthalmologist (O method) and were also photographed in mydriasis (M method). For the comparison of the three methods the kappa statistic was used.

With non-mydriatic imaging of 502 eyes no retinopathy was found in 74.5%, DRP was detected in 15.5%, while 10.1% of the photos were ungradable. The rates of DRP severity levels were: 13.55% mild/moderate non-proliferative, 0.59% severe and 1.39% proliferative DRP. Comparing the results of the gradable non-mydriatic photos by the two independent graders, perfect intergrader agreement was found (k = 1.00). The measure of intermethod agreement between NM and M method was also perfect, with a kappa value of 1.00 (grader A and grader B). Based on the results of the O method, there were no misdiagnosed cases nor with the NM-, neither with the M method.

Non-mydriatic cameras could be ideal tools of an extended countrywide retinopathy screening program which may serve to reduce the high prevalence of diabetes-related blindness in Hungary.
The Society for Vascular Medicine: The first quarter century
Authors: Creager Mark A , Hiatt William R , Hirsch Alan T , Olin Jeffrey W , Jaff Michael R , Cooke John P , Rooke Thom , Beckman Joshua A , Froehlich James B
Published: February 2015

The Society for Vascular Medicine was founded in 1989. During the subsequent 25 years, the Society has grown to approximately 500 members and has achieved international recognition while making important contributions to vascular disease education, clinical vascular medicine and biology research, and patient care. In celebration of the Society’s 25th anniversary, its past and current presidents reflect on the Society’s history, challenges, and achievements, and emphasize the vital role of the SVM in the discipline of vascular medicine.
Health behavior predictors of medication adherence among low health literacy people living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Pellowski Jennifer A , Kalichman Seth C
Published: February 2015

One particularly vulnerable population for HIV treatment non-adherence is persons with poor health literacy skills. For these individuals, it is important to simplify medication taking as much as possible by integrating medication adherence into other routine health behaviors. This study aims to ascertain the relationship between medication adherence and other health behaviors. Adults living with HIV ( N = 422) completed intake measures and 3 months of unannounced pill counts. Endorsement of diet and exercise behaviors at intake predicted higher medication adherence, over and above other known predictors of medication adherence such as HIV symptoms, depression, social support, and stress. These results support integrating strategies for medication management into a constellation of routine health practices.
The reliability of psychological instruments in community samples: A cautionary note
Authors: Shepperd James A , Emanuel Amber S , Dodd Virginia J , Logan Henrietta L
Published: February 2015

Although researchers norm and validate measures of psychological constructs largely on educated samples, they often use these instruments more broadly, assuming generalizability. We examined whether the assumption of generalizability is warranted. We administered three commonly used psychological measures—the Behavioral Activation/Behavioral Inhibition Scale, the Regulatory Focus Questionnaire, and the Need for Cognition Scale—to a community sample ( N = 332) with limited education. For the three instruments, five of seven scales/subscales had unsatisfactory reliabilities. Internal consistency was lowest among participants with less education. The results suggest that instruments normed on educated samples may not generalize to uneducated samples.
Another look at depressive symptoms and antiretroviral therapy adherence: The role of treatment self-efficacy
Authors: Houston Eric , Mikrut Cassandra , Guy Arryn , Fominaya Adam W , Tatum Alexander K , Kim Jeong H , Brown Annette
Published: February 2015

Depression has been strongly associated with poor HIV treatment adherence, but little research has explored how individuals manage to follow their regimens despite symptoms of major depression. Using a sample of antiretroviral therapy patients with clinically significant depressive symptoms ( n = 84), we examined whether patients with optimal adherence differed from those with suboptimal adherence in terms of the types of depressive symptoms experienced and treatment self-efficacy. There were no significant differences between participants with regard to types of depressive symptoms. Findings indicate that patients with high treatment self-efficacy were more likely to report optimal levels of adherence than patients with low self-efficacy.
Health behaviour mediates the relationship between Type D personality and subjective health in the general population
Authors: Williams Lynn , Abbott Clare , Kerr Rebecca
Published: February 2015

Type D personality is associated with unhealthy behaviour and poor subjective health in the general population. This study investigated whether health behaviour mediates the relationship between Type D and subjective health. There were 217 participants who completed measures of Type D, health-related behaviour, physical symptoms and quality of life. Type D individuals reported significantly less healthy behaviour and significantly poorer subjective health than non-Type Ds. In addition, it was found that health behaviour partially mediates these relationships. The study demonstrates that health behaviour may partly explain the relationship between Type D and poor health outcomes.
Feasibility of an empirically based program for parents of preschoolers with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Dababnah Sarah , Parish Susan L
Published: February 2015

This article reports on the feasibility of implementing an existing empirically based program, The Incredible Years, tailored to parents of young children with autism spectrum disorder. Parents raising preschool-aged children (aged 3–6 years) with autism spectrum disorder ( N = 17) participated in a 15-week pilot trial of the intervention. Quantitative assessments of the program revealed fidelity was generally maintained, with the exception of program-specific videos. Qualitative data from individual post-intervention interviews reported parents benefited most from child emotion regulation strategies, play-based child behavior skills, parent stress management, social support, and visual resources. More work is needed to further refine the program to address parent self-care, partner relationships, and the diverse behavioral and communication challenges of children across the autism spectrum. Furthermore, parent access and retention could potentially be increased by providing in-home childcare vouchers and a range of times and locations in which to offer the program. The findings suggest The Incredible Years is a feasible intervention for parents seeking additional support for child- and family-related challenges and offers guidance to those communities currently using The Incredible Years or other related parenting programs with families of children with autism spectrum disorder.
Fresh air funds and functional families: The enduring politics of race, family and place in juvenile justice reform
Authors: Cox Alexandra
Published: February 2015

This article examines the enduring ways that racial politics are masked by discourses of place and family in the history of juvenile justice in the USA. The tropes of place and family have been invoked since the inception of the USA’s juvenile justice system and have influenced the processes of policing, removal, and return, even as the latest incarnation of reforms focus on building juvenile justice facilities and alternatives to incarceration within urban areas. By pointing to recent manifestations of this rhetoric in New York, the article identifies the thread that links these claims together: the desire by social control agents for submission by the primarily impoverished and young people of color who defy legal authority.
Practitioner characteristics and organizational contexts as essential elements in the evidence-based practice versus cultural competence debate
Authors: Jackson Vivian Hopkins
Published: February 2015

The different pathways chosen to efficiently and effectively provide relief to those struggling with mental health challenges reflect different assumptions about the human condition and have led to disagreements over which intervention strategies are best suited to particular individuals or populations. Evidence-based practice and culturally competent services, as discussed within the United States, have been characterized as opposites. However, neither approach captures all of the elements that embody the full treatment experience. This article offers a framework that includes the personal identity of the practitioner and the organizational context as two elements that serve as active agents in the helping relationship, although they have rarely been included in the discourse about evidence-based practice or cultural competence. Suggestions for practice, education, and research are included based on this analysis.