bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulated patients in a mental health occupational therapy course: A pilot study
Authors: Haracz Kirsti , Arrighi Gillian , Joyce Brian
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The use of simulated patients is well established in medicine and nursing. There is little research evaluating the use of simulated patients in occupational therapy education and none which focuses on mental health. This study sought to determine the acceptability and effectiveness of using simulated patients in a mental health occupational therapy course. The pilot also sought to address the challenge of providing simulation experience to a large number of students in a cost and time effective manner.

Method

Occupational therapy students participated in a simulation which involved an initial interview assessment with an actor portraying a person with a mental health diagnosis. The students worked in small groups for the simulation, rotating into the therapist role using a carousel model. Students completed a survey about their experience of the simulation.

Results

The students rated the simulation experience highly in terms of authenticity and learning outcomes. Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses produced five themes: authentic experience, developing skills, feedback and reflection, we should do more of this, and developing the experience further.

Conclusion

The pilot was effective in allowing a large number of students to engage directly with the simulated patient without negatively impacting on the experience.
Does Turnover Intention Matter? Evaluating the Usefulness of Turnover Intention Rate as a Predictor of Actual Turnover Rate
Authors: Cohen Galia , Blake Robert S. , Goodman Doug
Published: April 2015

Turnover research has traditionally examined intention to turnover rather than actual turnover. Such studies assume that leave intent serves equally well as both a proxy for and predictor of employees’ actual turnover behavior. The purpose of this study is to provide an agency-level evaluation of the usefulness of turnover intention as a reliable proxy and predictor of actual turnover across 180 U.S. federal agencies, using hierarchical (stepwise) multiple regression. Our findings suggest that, at the organizational level, turnover intention and actual turnover are distinct concepts, predicted by different sets of variables. Based on these findings, we conclude that public managers tasked with retention might have better foresight concentrating on their agencies’ unique demographic characteristics and specific management practices, rather than on their employees’ self-reported aggregated turnover intention rate.
Prognostic Predictors for Ambulation in Thai Children With Cerebral Palsy Aged 2 to 18 Years
Authors: Keeratisiroj Orawan , Thawinchai Nuanlaor , Siritaratiwat Wantana , Buntragulpoontawee Montana
Published: April 2015

The objectives of this study were to determine prognostic predictors for ambulation among Thai children with cerebral palsy and identify their ambulatory status. A retrospective cohort study was performed at 6 special schools or hospitals for children with physical disabilities. The prognostic predictors for ambulation were analyzed by multivariable ordinal continuation ratio logistic regression. The 533 participants aged 2 to 18 years were divided into 3 groups: 186 with independent ambulation (Gross Motor Function Classification System [GMFCS I-II]), 71 with assisted ambulation (Gross Motor Function Classification System III), and 276 with nonambulation (Gross Motor Function Classification System IV-V). The significant positive predictors for ambulation were type of cerebral palsy (spastic diplegia, spastic hemiplegia, dyskinesia, ataxia, hypotonia, and mixed type), sitting independently at age 2 years, and eating independently. These predictors were used to develop clinical scoring for predicting the future ability to walk among Thai children with cerebral palsy.
GPR56-Related Polymicrogyria
Authors: Desai Neelu A. , Udani Vrajesh
Published: April 2015

Bilateral frontoparietal polymicrogyria is an autosomal recessive cortical malformation associated with abnormalities of neuronal migration, white matter changes, and mild brainstem and cerebellar abnormalities. Affected patients present with delayed milestones, intellectual disability, epilepsy, ataxia, and eye movement abnormalities. The clinicoradiologic profile resembles congenital muscular dystrophy. However, no muscle disease or characteristic eye abnormalities of congenial muscular dystrophy are detected in these children. GPR56 is the only confirmed gene associated with bilateral frontoparietal polymicrogyria. Antenatal diagnosis is possible if the index case is genetically confirmed. Four patients from different Indian families with a distinct clinicoradiologic profile resembling congenital muscular dystrophy with mutations in the GPR56 gene are described.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Prognosis of Intra-Abdominal Hypertension in Critically Ill Children
Authors: Thabet Farah Chedly , Bougmiza Iheb Mohamed , Chehab May Said , Bafaqih Hind Ali , AlMohaimeed Sulaiman Abdulkareem , Malbrain Manu L.N.G.
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

To assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Methods:

Prospective cohort study from January 2011 to January 2013. All children consecutively admitted to the PICU, staying more than 24 hours and requiring bladder catheterization, were included in the study. On admission, demographic data and risk factors for IAH were studied. The intra-abdominal pressure was measured every 6 hours through a bladder catheter until discharge, death, or removal of the catheter.

Results:

Of the 175 patients, 22 (12.6%) had IAH and 7 (4%) had abdominal compartment syndrome during the intensive care unit (ICU) stay. The independent risk factors associated with IAH were the presence of abdominal distension (odds ratio [OR] 7.1; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.6-19.9; P < .0001) and a plateau pressure of more than 30 cm H2O (OR 6.42; 95% CI, 2.13-19.36; P = .01). The presence of IAH was associated with higher mortality (40.9% vs 15.6%; P = .01) and prolonged ICU stay (19.5 [3-97] vs 8 [1-104] days, OR 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00-1.04; P = .02). Thirty-three (18.8%) patients died in the ICU, and IAH was an independent risk factor for mortality (OR 6.98; 95% CI, 1.75-27.86; P = .006).

Conclusion:

Intra-abdominal hypertension does occur in about 13% of the critically ill children, albeit less frequently than adult patients, probably related to a better compliance of the abdominal wall. The presence of abdominal distension and a plateau pressure of more than 30 cm H2O was found to be independent predictors of IAH. Children with IAH had higher mortality rate and more prolonged ICU stay.
Structural Redundancy and Multiplicity within Networks of US Corporate Directors
Authors: Barnes Roy C.
Published: April 2015

The argument of this paper is that social ties beyond the boardroom matter. At the structural level, social ties from non-profit foundations, cultural organizations, university boards, policy planning organizations, and private social clubs add unique ties to those established by interlocking directorates. In addition, the multiple configurations of these social affiliations increase the centrality and reduce the social distance among the corporate directors. Although visualizations of these social networks underscore the changing roles these extra-corporate ties play in uniting corporate directors, they cannot precisely capture the unique effects of ties created by social affiliations outside the boardroom. Utilizing the concepts of structural redundancy and multiplicity, the paper describes the unique contribution each set of ties makes in constructing the social mosaic of corporate America during the second half of the 20th century. The results indicate a dramatic reduction in the role private clubs play in supplementing corporate ties, and an equally significant rise in the importance of social ties generated by policy planning organizations.
Thermal and dielectric properties of “thiol–ene” photocured hybrid composite materials from allyl-terminated benzoxazine and SH-POSS
Authors: Sethuraman K. , Vengatesan M. R. , Lakshmikandhan T. , Alagar M.
Published: April 2015

In the present work, allyl-terminated benzoxazine and thiol-functionalized polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (SH-POSS) were synthesized and their molecular structures were confirmed by Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), carbon-13 NMR, and silicon-29 NMR spectroscopies. The PBZ hybrid composite materials were developed through photopolymerization (ultraviolet (UV) lamp) reactions of allyl-terminated benzoxazine monomer with different weight percentages of SH-POSS (P10, P30, and P50 wt%), followed by thermal curing. The data obtained from transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis infer the presence of homogeneous morphology of the cured samples. Data obtained from differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, UV transmittance, dielectric, and contact angle studies indicate that the dual cured P50-PBZ hybrid composite exhibits higher thermal, UV shielding, and hydrophobic behavior and lower value of dielectric constant than those of lower weight percentages of SH-POSS reinforced hybrid composites.
Study of thermal decomposition kinetics for polyimides based on 2,6-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4-(4-(4-aminophenoxy) phenyl) pyridine
Authors: Zhuo Longhai , Kou Kaichang , Bai Yang , Wang Yiqun , Wu Guanglei
Published: April 2015

This study reports on the preparation and thermal decomposition kinetics of a polyimide (PI) with phthalimide pendant (PI-1) and an analogous hyperbranched PI (PI-2). PI-1 was synthesized from 2,6-bis(4-aminophenyl)-4-(4-(4-aminophenoxy) phenyl) pyridine (BAAP) and 4,4′-(hexa-fluoroisopropylidene) diphthalic anhydride using a simple method with BAAP terminated by phthalic anhydride. The morphology of the PI structures was examined using X-ray diffraction. The thermal decomposition processes of the PIs were then studied according to a two-stage method using thermogravimetric analysis. The results indicated that both PIs exhibited excellent thermal stability, with a decomposition pattern of 5% mass loss beyond 508°C and 10% beyond 529°C. The two PIs exhibited similar levels of thermal stability in the first decomposition stage, but PI-1 exhibited higher stability in the second stage. The results indicate that PIs into which phthalimide pendants have been introduced retain their thermal stability in the first stage of decomposition and demonstrate enhanced thermal stability in the second stage.
Hydrological changes of the past 1400 years recorded in δD of sedimentary n-alkanes from Poyang Lake, southeastern China
Authors: Yao Yuan , Yang Hong , Liu Weiguo , Li Xiangzhong , Chen Yuwei
Published: April 2015

Hydrogen isotopic compositions (δD) of plant leaf wax have been increasingly used for paleohydrological reconstructions over various geological timescales. Here, we analyzed downcore variations of δD values of long-chain C31 and C33 n-alkanes from Poyang Lake in southeastern China to infer hydrological changes recorded in terrestrial higher plants during the past 1400 years. Variations in δD values of long-chain n-alkanes were generally consistent with fluctuations of published rainfall proxy (Dry–Wet Index) in southern regions of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Valley. We suggest that the δD record from Poyang Lake is likely influenced by the regional rainfall variations, which is interpreted as a result of the combined effect of ‘amount effect’ and evapotranspiration. More negative δD values during ca. AD 1200–1500 with a higher amount of rainfall suggested a wetter ‘Medieval Warm Period’ (MWP), and more positive δD values at ca. AD 1500–1900 with a lower amount of rainfall indicated a relatively dry ‘Little Ice Age’ (LIA). This pattern of hydrological changes generally corresponded to the intensity of the Asian summer monsoon (ASM) as recorded in oxygen isotopic compositions (δ18O) of stalagmite from the Wanxiang Cave in central China, providing further support that ASM has played an important role in controlling hydrological changes during the MWP and LIA in monsoon-dominated southeastern China.
Population history and its relationship with climate change on the Chinese Loess Plateau during the past 10,000 years
Authors: Li Hu , An Chengbang , Fan Wenjie , Dong Weimiao , Zhao Yongtao , Wang Haipeng
Published: April 2015

Based on compilation of a large number of archaeological and palaeosol 14C-ages, the Summed Probability Method is used to reconstruct population history and climatic patterns on the Chinese Loess Plateau during the period 8.5–3.5 cal. ka BP. During this period, the population experienced two major expansion periods and several climatic fluctuations. The first population expansion began at around 7.8 cal. ka BP, and the second at around 5.8 cal. ka BP. During the first period, although already in combination with cultivation of broomcorn millet the population growth was supported mainly by hunting and gathering. With the switch from broomcorn millet to foxtail millet, plant cultivation became the major factor promoting a second population increase. In this paper, we demonstrate that, initially, suitable climate and agriculture both can facilitate population growth and climate events had a significant influence on demographic fluctuations. However, when reaching the threshold of land capacity, population became increasingly more sensitive towards climate fluctuations.
Analysis of expression and function of the co-stimulatory receptor SLAMF1 in immune cells from patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Authors: Liñán-Rico L , Hernández-Castro B , Doniz-Padilla L , Portillo-Salazar H , Baranda L , Cruz-Muñoz M E , González-Amaro R
Published: April 2015

The signaling lymphocytic activation molecule SLAMF1 (CD150) is a co-stimulatory molecule that is expressed by most immune cells, including T regulatory (Treg) lymphocytes. Since different abnormalities have been reported regarding the number and function of Foxp3+ Treg cells in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), we decided to analyze the expression and function of CD150 in these regulatory lymphocytes in this condition. We isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 20 patients with SLE, and 20 healthy controls. The expression of SLAMF1 was determined by multi-parametric flow cytometry and the suppressive function of CD4+CD25+ lymphocytes, upon engagement or not of CD150 with an agonistic monoclonal antibody, was analyzed by an assay of inhibition of cell proliferation. We observed a significantly increased expression of SLAMF1 by CD3+CD4+ helper T cells and CD19+ B cells in patients with SLE and active disease. However, similar levels of SLAMF1 expression were detected in Foxp3+ Treg cells from patients and controls. In contrast, a higher proportion of SLE patients increased their suppressive function of Treg cells upon CD150 engagement compared to healthy controls. Our data suggest that SLAMF1 is another significant piece in the intricate defective immune-regulatory function of patients with SLE.
Does Social Health Insurance Close the Gap
Authors: Hsieh Vivian Chia-Rong , Shieh Shwn-Huey , Chen Chiu-Ying , Liou Saou-Hsing , Hsiao Yu-Chen , Wu Trong-Neng
Published: April 2015

Using a retrospective cohort study design, we report empirical evidence on the effect of parental socioeconomic status, primary care, and health care expenditure associated with preterm or low-birth-weight (PLBW) babies on their mortality (neonatal, postneonatal, and under-5 mortality) under a universal health care system. A total of 4668 singleton PLBW babies born in Taiwan between January 1 and December 31, 2001, are extracted from a population-based medical claims database for a follow-up of up to 5 years. Multivariate survival models suggest the positive effect of higher parental income is significant in neonatal period but diminishes in later stages. Consistent inverse relationship is observed between adequate antenatal care and the three outcomes: neonatal hazard ratio (HR) = 0.494, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.312 to 0.783; postneonatal HR = 0.282, 95% CI = 0.102 to 0.774; and under-5 HR = 0.575, 95% CI = 0.386 to 0.857. Primary care services uptake should be actively promoted, particularly in lower income groups, to prevent premature PLBW mortality.
Employment and Economic Well-Being of People With and Without Disabilities Before and After the Great Recession
Authors: Livermore Gina A. , Honeycutt Todd C.
Published: April 2015

The latest U.S. economic recession, commonly referred to as the Great Recession, has had a far-reaching impact, but its effects may be disproportionately experienced by working-age people with disabilities, given their already tenuous attachment to the labor force. We used data from the Current Population Survey both to describe the experiences of working-age people with disabilities during 2006–2012 (a period beginning before and ending after the Great Recession) and to compare the experiences of this population with those of working-age people without disabilities. We found few significant differences in the characteristics of people with disabilities before and after the Great Recession. The employment rate of people with disabilities was low both before and after the recession, though the decline in employment among people with disabilities was somewhat greater than for people without disabilities. The employment declines observed during this period for people with disabilities reflect a long-term downward trend that has persisted for decades, raising concerns that people with disabilities are permanently exiting the labor force. Job loss after the recession was particularly concentrated among people with disabilities in blue-collar and goods-producing jobs. People with and without disabilities experienced similar increases in poverty. Ongoing surveillance of the characteristics and employment of people with disabilities is needed to identify trends and develop policies to promote their independence and economic security.
Isolated Subtalar Distraction Arthrodesis Using Porous Tantalum
Authors: Papadelis Eustratios A. , Karampinas Panagiotis K. , Kavroudakis Eustratios , Vlamis John , Polizois Vasilios D. , Pneumaticos Spiros G.
Published: April 2015

Background:

During reconstructive procedures of the hindfoot, a structural graft is often needed to fill gaps. To eliminate donor site morbidity and limited availability of autografts, porous tantalum was used.

Methods:

Eighteen patients who underwent subtalar joint distraction arthrodesis by means of trabecular metal augment were reviewed retrospectively. The results were evaluated clinically, with the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and were assessed radiologically. The mean follow-up period was 18 months.

Results:

Computed tomography showed sound fusion. There was a marked increase in AOFAS scores and a decrease in VAS scores. Arthrodesis was achieved in all cases with no major postoperative complications. Radiographically, there was a marked increase in all measured parameters (talocalcaneal angle, talocalcaneal height, talar declination angle), and the intraoperatively achieved correction was maintained at the last follow-up visit.

Conclusion:

Our data suggest that porous tantalum may be used as a structural graft option for subtalar arthrodesis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Association Between Continuous Performance and Response Inhibition Tests in Adults With ADHD
Authors: Maoz Hagai , Aviram Shai , Nitzan Uri , Segev Aviv , Bloch Yuval
Published: April 2015

Objective: The study of ADHD uses various computerized tests to assess cognitive functions. Uncertainty exists regarding the association between deficits found by different tools testing similar or different cognitive functions (e.g., continuous performance tests [CPT] and response inhibition [RI] tests).We hypothesized that different tools that measure continuous performance will be better correlated between themselves than with a tool that examines RI. Method: Thirty-six adults with ADHD performed two different CPTs and a RI task. We analyzed correlations between different measures examined by the tasks. Results: There were strong correlations between corresponding measures in the CPTs. Correlations between the results in CPT and the RI task were only minimal. Conclusion: These findings support the specificity of impairments in different cognitive domains (continuous attention vs. RI) beyond the specific test used in the study of ADHD. Also, these findings strengthen the importance of specific discriminative cognitive domains in ADHD.
Evidence for early, non-lesional cerebellar damage in patients with multiple sclerosis: DTI measures correlate with disability, atrophy, and disease duration
Authors: Deppe Michael , Tabelow Karsten , Krämer Julia , Tenberge Jan-Gerd , Schiffler Patrick , Bittner Stefan , Schwindt Wolfram , Zipp Frauke , Wiendl Heinz , Meuth Sven G.
Published: April 2015

Background:

Common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) such as gait ataxia, poor coordination of the hands, and intention tremor are usually the result of dysfunctionality in the cerebellum. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has frequently failed to detect cerebellar damage in the form of inflammatory lesions in patients presenting with symptoms of cerebellar dysfunction.

Objective:

To detect microstructural cerebellar tissue alterations in early MS patients with a “normal appearing” cerebellum using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).

Methods:

A total of 68 patients with relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) and without cerebellar lesions and 26 age-matched healthy controls were admitted to high-resolution MRI and DTI to assess microstructure and volume of the cerebellar white matter (CBWM).

Results:

We found cerebellar fractional anisotropy (FA) and CBWM volume reductions in the group of 68 patients. Interestingly, a subgroup of these patients that was derived by including only patients with early and mild MS ( N=23, median age 30 years, median Expanded Disability Status Scale =1.5, median duration 28 months) showed already cerebellar FA but no CBWM volume reductions. FA reductions were correlated with disability, atrophy, and disease duration.

Conclusion:

“Normal appearing” cerebellar white matter can be damaged in a very early stage of RRMS. DTI seems to be a sensitive tool for detecting this hidden cerebellar damage.
Diffusivity signatures characterize trigeminal neuralgia associated with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chen David Q , DeSouza Danielle D , Hayes David J , Davis Karen D , O’Connor Paul , Hodaie Mojgan
Published: April 2015

Background:

Trigeminal neuralgia secondary to multiple sclerosis (MS-TN) is a facial neuropathic pain syndrome similar to classic trigeminal neuralgia (TN). While TN is caused by neurovascular compression of the fifth cranial nerve (CN V), how MS-related demyelination correlates with pain in MS-TN is not understood.

Objectives:

We aim to examine diffusivities along CN V in MS-TN, TN, and controls in order to reveal differential neuroimaging correlates across groups.

Methods:

3T MR diffusion weighted, T1, T2 and FLAIR sequences were acquired for MS-TN, TN, and controls. Multi-tensor tractography was used to delineate CN V across cisternal, root entry zone (REZ), pontine and peri-lesional segments. Diffusion metrics including fractional anisotropy (FA), and radial (RD), axial (AD), and mean diffusivities (MD) were measured from each segment.

Results:

CN V segments showed distinctive diffusivity patterns. The TN group showed higher FA in the cisternal segment ipsilateral to the side of pain, and lower FA in the ipsilateral REZ segment. The MS-TN group showed lower FA in the ipsilateral peri-lesional segments, suggesting differential microstructural changes along CN V in these conditions.

Conclusions:

The study demonstrates objective differences in CN V microstrucuture in TN and MS-TN using non-invasive neuroimaging. This represents a significant improvement in the methods currently available to study pain in MS.
Cognitive reserve moderates the impact of subcortical gray matter atrophy on neuropsychological status in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Modica Claire M , Bergsland Niels , Dwyer Michael G , Ramasamy Deepa P , Carl Ellen , Zivadinov Robert , Benedict Ralph HB
Published: April 2015

Background:

Cognitive decline is characterized in multiple sclerosis (MS), but the rate and severity vary. The reserve hypothesis proposes that baseline neurological differences impact cognitive outcome in neurodegenerative disease.

Objective:

To elucidate how brain reserve and cognitive reserve influence subcortical gray matter (SCGM) atrophy and cognitive decline in MS over 3 years.

Methods:

Seventy-one MS patients and 23 normal controls underwent magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive assessment at baseline and 3-year follow-up. The influence of reserve on cognitive processing speed (CPS) and memory was examined.

Results:

SCGM volume and cognitive scores were lower in MS than normal controls ( P⩽0.001). Accounting for baseline, comparison of follow-up means yielded a difference between groups in SCGM volume ( P<0.001) but not cognition (NS). Cognitive reserve ( P=0.005), but not brain reserve, contributed to CPS, with only low cognitive reserve MS subjects showing decline in CPS ( P=0.029). SCGM change predicted CPS outcome in MS with low cognitive reserve ( P=0.002) but not high cognitive reserve. There were no effects in the domain of memory.

Conclusions:

SCGM atrophy occurs in normal controls, but significantly more so in MS. While CPS did not change in normal controls, low cognitive reserve was associated with CPS decline in MS. High cognitive reserve protect MS patients from cognitive decline related to SCGM atrophy.
Pregnancy-related relapse risk factors in women with anti-AQP4 antibody positivity and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Shimizu Yuko , Fujihara Kazuo , Ohashi Takashi , Nakashima Ichiro , Yokoyama Kazumasa , Ikeguch Ryotaro , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Misu Tatsuro , Shimizu Satoru , Aoki Masashi , Kitagawa Kazuo
Published: April 2015

Background:

Few reports describe the influence pregnancy has on the annualized relapse rate (ARR) in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Objective:

To examine pregnancy-related attacks (attacks during pregnancy or within 1 year postpartum) and identify the risk factors for an attack in Japanese NMOSD patients.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 139 Japanese women whom had aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody-positive NMOSD. Among the 114 patients with information, 47 women had 56 pregnancies. We compared the ARR before, during and after pregnancy.

Results:

Of the 47 NMOSD patients with pregnancy, 22 women (46.8%) had a pregnancy-related attack of the disease (either an onset event or a relapse). The ARR was significantly higher in the first 3 months postpartum (1.80 ± 2.04), than before the pregnancy (0.57 ± 1.16; p = 0.0043) and did not significantly decrease during pregnancy. The ARR before hospitalization and treatment was analyzable in 55 patients without pregnancy and was 1.09 ± 1.17. Among the 11 patients with onset before pregnancy, nine patients had a pregnancy-related attack with a relapse in the previous year, and their immunosuppression was discontinued or made to be at low doses; while the two patients on higher-dose therapies were relapse-free.

Conclusion:

In the present study, pregnancy-related attack was common in NMOSD, and unlike in multiple sclerosis, the ARR was not reduced during pregnancy. Discontinued or insufficient immunosuppression appeared to increase the risk of pregnancy-related attack.
Experimental collaborations
Authors: Estalella Adolfo , Sánchez-Criado Tomás
Published: April 2015

This position article argues in favour of a research programme for the exploration of experimental collaborations, a methodological approach whose epistemic engagement with the empirical work is experimental and whose relational mode is collaborative. Digital technologies have effected a process of redistribution of social science research by which non-experts and lay people are increasingly using and developing tools for the production of sociological knowledge. Under these circumstances, we argue that such a redistribution of social science research is an opportunity to renew the epistemic practices of social scientists. With the proposal of experimental collaborations, we invoke a twofold displacement for social research: from a merely observational mode of research to an experimental one and from individualistic or merely engaged conceptions of research to a collective exploration of problems yet unknown.
Interventions to increase condom use among middle-aged and older adults: A systematic review of theoretical bases, behaviour change techniques, modes of delivery and treatment fidelity
Authors: MacDonald Jennifer , Lorimer Karen , Knussen Christina , Flowers Paul
Published: April 2015

This systematic review collates, examines and syntheses condom use interventions for middle-aged and older adults. Associations between effectiveness and theoretical basis, behaviour change techniques, mode of delivery and treatment fidelity were explored. Five interventions were included; one was effective. Compared to interventions with non-significant findings, the effective telephone-administered intervention used theory to a greater extent, had a higher number of behaviour change techniques and employed more treatment fidelity strategies. There is a need to develop theory-based interventions targeting condom use among this population and evaluate these in randomised controlled trials that are rigorously designed and reported. Health psychologists have a key role in this endeavour.
Extent and orientation of coping in chemical intolerance
Authors: Vishwanatha Kalyani , Palmquist Eva , Nordin Steven
Published: April 2015

Chemical intolerance is a long-standing illness with minimal guidelines regarding treatment. Hence, individual attempts to cope with the illness gain importance in dealing with its consequences. This study used data from 164 persons with self-reported chemical intolerance to understand the nature of coping with the illness. Coping was studied along two dimensions, the extent and predominant orientation of coping. The association of these coping dimensions with mental health variables of stress, depression, anxiety, burnout, and non-restorative sleep was examined as well. Results revealed that the persons with chemical intolerance used a moderate amount of coping strategies which were slightly more emotion-focused than problem-focused in orientation. Users of both problem-focused and emotion-focused orientations report scores in the normal range on all mental health indices. However, significantly higher level of anxiety was found to be associated with predominantly emotion-focused coping, whereas coping orientation did not differ with respect to the four other mental health indices. The above findings are discussed in relation to existing literature on coping with long-term illness.
Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of the hull of a high-speed craft
Authors: Burman Magnus , Kuttenkeuler Jakob , Stenius Ivan , Garme Karl , Rosén Anders
Published: April 2015

A comparative Life Cycle Assessment is performed for different structural material concepts on a 24-m-long high-speed patrol craft. The study is comparative and determines the differences in and sensitivities to environmental impact, especially in relation to the total impact of fuel burn for the different material concepts. The material concepts are aluminium and various composite combinations consisting of glass fibre and carbon fibre with vinyl ester resin both as single skins and as sandwich with a Divinycell foam core. Commercially available standard Life Cycle Assessment software is used for the Life Cycle Assessment calculations. The study shows that regardless of hull material concept, the environmental impact is dominated by the operational phase due to relatively large fuel consumption. In the operational phase, the lightest carbon-fibre concept is shown to have least environmental impact. Considering the manufacturing phase exclusively for the different hull concepts, it is concluded that the manufacturing of the aluminium hull has a somewhat larger environment impact for the majority of Life Cycle Assessment impact categories in comparison to the different composite hulls. The significant impact on the marine and the fresh water aquatic ecotoxicity originates from the aluminium raw material excavation and manufacturing processes. It is shown that the lightest hull, the carbon-fibre sandwich concept, with a 50% structural weight reduction compared to the aluminium design, can be utilized to reduce the fuel consumption by 20% (775 ton of diesel) over the lifetime with significant impact on the dominating environmental aspects considered herein, abiotic depletion, global warming and acidification.
Survival of diabetes patients with major amputation is comparable to malignant disease
Authors: Hoffmann Martin , Kujath Peter , Flemming Annette , Proß Moritz , Begum Nehara , Zimmermann Markus , Keck Tobias , Kleemann Markus , Schloericke Erik
Published: April 2015

Introduction:

Almost all studies on diabetic foot syndrome focused on prevention of amputation and did not investigate long-term prognosis and survival of patients as a primary outcome parameter.

Methods:

We did a retrospective cohort study including 314 patients who had diabetic foot syndrome and underwent amputation between December 1995 and January 2001.

Results:

A total of 48% of patients received minor amputation (group I), 15% only major amputation (group II) and 36% initially underwent a minor amputation that was followed by a major amputation (group III). Statistically significant differences were observed in comparison of the median survival of group I to group II (51 vs 40 months; p = 0.016) and of group II to group III (40 vs 55 months; p = 0.003).

Discussion:

The prognosis of patients with major amputation due to diabetic foot syndrome is comparable to patients with malignant diseases. Vascular interventions did not improve the individual prognosis of patients.
Dynamic Changes in White Matter Abnormalities Correlate With Late Improvement and Deterioration Following TBI
Authors: Newcombe Virginia F. J. , Correia Marta M. , Ledig Christian , Abate Maria G. , Outtrim Joanne G. , Chatfield Doris , Geeraerts Thomas , Manktelow Anne E. , Garyfallidis Eleftherios , Pickard John D. , Sahakian Barbara J. , Hutchinson Peter J. A. , Rueckert Daniel , Coles Jonathan P. , Williams Guy B. , Menon David K.
Published: April 2015

Objective. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is not a single insult with monophasic resolution, but a chronic disease, with dynamic processes that remain active for years. We aimed to assess patient trajectories over the entire disease narrative, from ictus to late outcome. Methods. Twelve patients with moderate-to-severe TBI underwent magnetic resonance imaging in the acute phase (within 1 week of injury) and twice in the chronic phase of injury (median 7 and 21 months), with some undergoing imaging at up to 2 additional time points. Longitudinal imaging changes were assessed using structural volumetry, deterministic tractography, voxel-based diffusion tensor analysis, and region of interest analyses (including corpus callosum, parasagittal white matter, and thalamus). Imaging changes were related to behavior. Results. Changes in structural volumes, fractional anisotropy, and mean diffusivity continued for months to years postictus. Changes in diffusion tensor imaging were driven by increases in both axial and radial diffusivity except for the earliest time point, and were associated with changes in reaction time and performance in a visual memory and learning task (paired associates learning). Dynamic structural changes after TBI can be detected using diffusion tensor imaging and could explain changes in behavior. Conclusions. These data can provide further insight into early and late pathophysiology, and begin to provide a framework that allows magnetic resonance imaging to be used as an imaging biomarker of therapy response. Knowledge of the temporal pattern of changes in TBI patient populations also provides a contextual framework for assessing imaging changes in individuals at any given time point.
Exploring the experiences of pregnant women using an NHS stop smoking service: a qualitative study
Authors: Pledger Anne B
Published: April 2015

Aim:

The purpose of this article was to explore women’s experiences of attempting to stop smoking while pregnant using National Health Service (NHS) support.

Method:

A qualitative methodological approach was adopted to enable the researcher to develop an understanding of the women’s experiences. Six individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with women who accessed an NHS stop smoking service while pregnant. The data were analysed using comparative analysis.

Results:

Five themes were identified: health risks, motivations to stop smoking, influences on smoking behaviour, feelings about smoking and experiences of using NHS stop smoking support. Motivation to stop smoking was predominantly due to concerns about their unborn baby’s health, and knowledge of health risks was generally good. Limited information relating to the associated health risks of continued smoking in pregnancy from healthcare professionals appeared to be a common experience. External pressures both positively and negatively influenced the smoking status of the women. Stress was cited by all the women as a significant challenge to smoking cessation and something which they all struggled with. The women’s experiences of using NHS support while pregnant was varied; some felt it adequately met their needs, while others felt that their expectations were not met.

Conclusion:

Continued smoking in pregnancy is complex, and it appears that successful smoking cessation is related to a number of internal and external factors which present significant challenges for expectant mothers who smoke. Stress was found to be a major contributor in continued smoking; therefore, NHS stop smoking services should incorporate stress management techniques into stop smoking interventions. In addition, services should be flexible, adapting service provision to meet women’s needs.
Health trainers making a difference to mental health and wellbeing
Authors: White Judy , Bagnall Anne-Marie , Trigwell Joanne
Published: April 2015

This short report explores the key findings from a review1 of information on health trainers in 2013/2014 which had a particular focus on mental health and wellbeing. After summarising the key findings of the review, it focuses on mental health, briefly exploring the links between mental and physical health before discussing what differences engagement with a health trainer made to people’s sense of self-efficacy and wellbeing.

Health trainers are a non-clinical workforce introduced in 2004,2 who receive training in competencies to enable them to support people in disadvantaged communities to improve their health.3 The population groups or settings that health trainers focus on varies from service to service, but all work one-to-one, most spending at least an hour with a client at their first appointment, supporting and enabling them to decide what they want to do. The emphasis is on the client determining their own priorities and how to achieve them. Generally, health trainers see clients for a total of six sessions, where how to achieve goals and progress towards them is discussed.

The Data Collection and Reporting System (DCRS) is used by approximately 60% of Health Trainer Services to record monitoring data. Around 90% of Health Trainer Services using DCRS record ethnographic data on health trainers and clients, plus the issues clients worked on and the progress they made. There is also a wide range of other data which can be recorded, including before and after mental health and wellbeing scores. We were given access to aggregate data in order to conduct an analysis. Descriptive statistics were generated to calculate percentage change pre- to post-intervention.

A total of 1,377 (= 919 full time equivalents) health trainers were recorded in the DCRS system as working with 97,248 clients in England during 2013/2014. The health trainer model embodies the principle of lay support,4 and services aim to recruit a high proportion of their staff from similar backgrounds to their clients. They have been reasonably successful with 32% of health trainers coming from the most deprived areas (Quintile 1),i with a further 20% from Quintile 2. In all, 40% percent of health trainers lived in the same areas as their clients.
A phase II study of TRC105 in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who have progressed on sorafenib
Authors: Duffy AG , Ulahannan SV , Cao L , Rahma OE , Makarova-Rusher OV , Kleiner DE , Fioravanti S , Walker M , Carey S , Yu Y , Venkatesan AM , Turkbey B , Choyke P , Trepel J , Bollen KC , Steinberg SM , Figg WD , Greten TF
Published: April 2015

Background

Endoglin is an endothelial cell membrane receptor essential for angiogenesis and highly expressed on the vasculature of many tumor types, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TRC105 is a chimeric IgG1 anti‐CD105 monoclonal antibody that inhibits angiogenesis and tumor growth by endothelial cell growth inhibition, ADCC and apoptosis, and complements VEGF inhibitors.

Objective

The aim of this phase II study was to evaluate the efficacy of anti‐endoglin therapy with TRC105 in patients with advanced HCC, post‐sorafenib.

Methods

Patients with HCC and compensated liver function (Childs‐Pugh A/B7), ECOG 0/1, were enrolled to a single‐arm, phase II study of TRC105 15 mg/kg IV every two weeks. Patients must have progressed on or been intolerant of prior sorafenib. A Simon optimal two‐stage design was employed with a 50% four‐month PFS target for progression to the second stage. Correlative biomarkers evaluated included DCE‐MRI as well as plasma levels of angiogenic biomarkers and soluble CD105.

Results

A total accrual of 27 patients was planned. However, because of lack of efficacy and in accordance with the Simon two‐stage design, 11 patients were enrolled. There were no grade 3/4 treatment‐related toxicities. Most frequent toxicities were headache (G2; N  = 3) and epistaxis (G1; N  = 4). One patient had a confirmed partial response by standard RECIST criteria and biologic response on DCE‐MRI but the four‐month PFS was insufficient to proceed to the second stage of the study.

Conclusions: TRC105 was well tolerated in this HCC population following sorafenib. Although there was evidence of clinical activity, this did not meet prespecified criteria to proceed to the second stage. TRC105 development in HCC continues as combination therapy with sorafenib.
A Comparative Case Study of Learning Strategies and Recommendations of Five Professional Musicians With Dyslexia
Authors: Nelson Kent Peter , Hourigan Ryan M.
Published: April 2015

Many of the characteristics of dyslexia—such as difficulties with decoding written symbols, phonemic awareness, physical coordination, and readable handwriting—may adversely affect music learning. Despite challenges, individuals with dyslexia can succeed in music. The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of five professional musicians with dyslexia as they reflect on their experiences learning music. Answers to the following research questions were sought: (a) What are the perceived abilities and challenges that the participants believe they have developed in music because of their diagnoses of dyslexia? (b) What strategies have the participants used to overcome the challenges associated with dyslexia? and (c) What recommendations did the participants have for adults to assist students with dyslexia who are enrolled in school music programs? The findings in this study included support for multisensory teaching, isolating musical components, learning of jazz and popular music, using technology, and small group instruction.
Surface mechanical attrition treated AISI 304L steel: role of process parameters
Authors: Gatey A. M. , Hosmani S. S. , Singh R. P.
Published: April 2015

In the present work, AISI 304L steel was used to investigate the effect of surface mechanical attrition treatment (SMAT) parameters on the hardness and microstructure. The surface modified by SMAT was examined using an optical microscope, SEM, electron backscattered diffraction, X-ray diffraction and microhardness measurements. The surface hardness of specimens was more than two times the hardness of non-treated core for all SMAT parameters. High density of shear bands (which formed nanosize rhombic blocks) was observed near the treated specimen surface. Density of shear bands was reliant on the size and number of balls. Deformation induced martensite (α′) was formed in surface mechanical attrition treated region. Volume per cent of α′ was enhanced with an increase in SMAT duration and number of balls. However, it was reduced with an increase in gap between vibrating plate and specimen surface. Microstructure evolution at various SMAT parameters was effectively explained using newly introduced terminology called ‘peening intensity’.
A Thomistic Defense of Whole-Brain Death
Authors: Eberl Jason T.
Published: April 2015

Michel Accad critiques the currently accepted whole-brain criterion for determining the death of a human being from a Thomistic metaphysical perspective and, in so doing, raises objections to a particular argument defending the whole-brain criterion by Patrick Lee and Germain Grisez. In this paper, I will respond to Accad's critique of the whole-brain criterion and defend its continued validity as a criterion for determining when a human being's death has occurred in accord with Thomistic metaphysical principles. I will, however, join Accad in criticizing Lee and Grisez's proposed defense of the whole-brain criterion as potentially leading to erroneous conclusions regarding the determination of human death.

Lay summary

Catholic physicians and bioethicists currently debate the legally accepted clinical standard for determining when a human being has died—known as the “wholebrain criterion”—which has also been morally affirmed by the Magisterium. This paper responds to physician Michel Accad's critique of the whole-brain criterion based upon St. Thomas Aquinas's metaphysical account of human nature as a union of a rational soul and a material body. I defend the whole-brain criterion from the same Thomistic philosophical perspective, while agreeing with Accad's objection to an alternative Thomistic defense of whole-brain death by philosophers Patrick Lee and Germain Grisez.
The mTORC1 inhibitor everolimus has antitumor activity in vitro and produces tumor responses in patients with relapsed T-cell lymphoma
Authors: Witzig Thomas E. , Reeder Craig , Han Jing Jing , LaPlant Betsy , Stenson Mary , Tun Han W. , Macon William , Ansell Stephen M. , Habermann Thomas M. , Inwards David J. , Micallef Ivana N. , Johnston Patrick B. , Porrata Luis F. , Colgan Joseph P. , Markovic Svetomir , Nowakowski Grzegorz S. , Gupta Mamta
Published: April 2015

Key Points

The mTOR pathway is constitutively activated in the TCL cells and is responsible for TCL proliferation. This is first trial to demonstrate that mTORC1 inhibitors (everolimus) have substantial antitumor activity (44% overall response rate) in patients with relapsed TCL.