bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating Evidence‐Based Nutrition Support Practice Among Healthcare Professionals With and Without the Certified Nutrition Support Clinician Credential
Authors: Brody Rebecca , Hise Mary , Marcus Andrea Fleisch , Harvey‐Banchik Lillian , Matarese Laura E.
Published: June 2015

Background: The National Board of Nutrition Support Certification credentials healthcare professionals and certifies that holders of the Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) credential have specialized knowledge of safe and effective nutrition support therapy. The purpose of this pilot study was to survey healthcare professionals affiliated with the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.) regarding their approaches to nutrition support practice using a complex patient case scenario in accordance with established clinical guidelines. Materials and Methods: An electronic survey was emailed to individuals affiliated with A.S.P.E.N. Eight multiple‐choice knowledge questions addressed evidence‐based nutrition support practice issues for a patient with progressing pancreatitis. Demographic and clinical characteristic data were collected. Results: Of 48,093 email invitations sent, 4455 (9.1%) responded and met inclusion criteria. Most respondents were dietitians (70.8%) and in nutrition support practice for 10.3 years, and 29.3% held the CNSC credential. Respondents with the CNSC credential answered 6.18 questions correctly compared with 4.56 for non‐CNSC respondents (P < .001). For all 8 questions, CNSC respondents were significantly more likely to choose the correct answer compared with non‐CNSC respondents (P < .001). Conclusion: Professionals with the CNSC credential scored significantly higher on a complex case‐based knowledge assessment of guideline recommendations for the nutrition support treatment of pancreatitis compared with those without a credential.
Multiple Paths to Institutional-Based Trust Production and Repair: Lessons from the Russian Bank Deposit Market
Authors: Spicer Andrew , Okhmatovskiy Ilya
Published: June 2015

We propose and test the proposition that state ownership represents an important mechanism of institutional-based trust production in market development that requires analysis in its own right, particularly following periods of financial crisis when the state’s role as a regulator is often viewed as ineffective or corrupt. To test the proposition that state ownership and state regulation act as distinct sources of institutional-based trust production, we examine individual choices of market participation and avoidance in Russia’s market for bank deposits. To analyze the consequences of institutional-based trust, we look at individual preferences to keep savings in a private bank, in a state bank, or in cash outside of the banking system. To analyze antecedent conditions, we measure an individual’s trust in political actors and government agencies. Our results support the proposition that the state produces institutional-based trust in the Russian banking system through its roles as both an owner and a regulator.
Innovation through inclusion: A pilot project
Authors: Bommersheim Ellen , Chandra Olga
Published: June 2015

This project builds on the unique expertise of the three partners to set in motion a process of ‘change through collaboration’. Specifically, the Innovation through Inclusion project offers a joint working platform for start-ups and small and medium enterprises and blind or visually impaired persons, to create a win-win outcome for both communities.
A consensus definition of occupation-based intervention from a Malaysian perspective: A Delphi study
Authors: Che Daud Ahmad Zamir , Yau Matthew K , Barnett Fiona
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Descriptions and definitions for occupation-based intervention vary in the literature. Occupation-based intervention is assumed to be based on occupation and is seen as both a means and an end. Occupation-based intervention also includes all levels of interventions in occupational therapy as long as the goal is occupational performance. Occupation-based intervention can also be described as a therapeutic process that emerges during the therapy session. The purpose of this study was to achieve a consensus definition of occupation-based intervention among Malaysian occupational therapists.

Method

A three-round Delphi technique using a sequential questionnaire was conducted. Fifteen occupational therapists and occupational therapy educators completed all rounds. The Delphi process began with open-ended questions, asking the participants some questions about occupation-based intervention. The second and third rounds asked participants to rank their agreement with statements about occupation-based intervention.

Results

Occupation-based intervention is seen by therapists to be both a means and an end, with occupational performance as the main outcome. It is believed that using occupation alone is not enough; preparatory and purposeful methods may have to be incorporated to achieve the outcomes.

Conclusion

It is important to adopt a common definition of occupation-based intervention in practice and education to signify occupation at the centre of occupational therapy.
Rates and Predictors of Invalid Baseline Test Performance in High School and Collegiate Athletes for 3 Computerized Neurocognitive Tests
Authors: Nelson Lindsay D. , Pfaller Adam Y. , Rein Lisa E. , McCrea Michael A.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Preseason baseline testing using computerized neurocognitive tests (CNTs) is increasingly performed on athletes. Adequate effort is critical to establish valid estimates of ability, but many users do not evaluate performance validity, and the conditions that affect validity are not well understood across the available CNTs.

Purpose:

To examine the rates and predictors of invalid baseline performance for 3 popular CNTs: Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM), Axon Sports, and Immediate Post-Concussion and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT).

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

High school and collegiate athletes (N = 2063) completed 2 of 3 CNTs each during preseason evaluations. All possible pairings were present across the sample, and the order of administration was randomized. Examiners provided 1-on-1, scripted pretest instructions, emphasizing the importance of good effort. Profile validity was determined by the manufacturers’ standard criteria.

Results:

The overall percentage of tests flagged as of questionable validity was lowest for ImPACT (2.7%) and higher for ANAM and Axon (10.7% and 11.3%, respectively). The majority of invalid baseline profiles were flagged as such because of failure on only 1 validity criterion. Several athlete and testing factors (eg, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD], estimated general intellectual ability, administration order) predicted validity status for 1 or more CNTs. Considering only first CNT administrations and participants without ADHD and/or a learning disability (n = 1835) brought the rates of invalid baseline performances to 2.1%, 8.8%, and 7.0% for ImPACT, ANAM, and Axon, respectively. Invalid profiles on the Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT) were rare (1.8% of participants) and demonstrated poor correspondence to CNT validity outcomes.

Conclusion:

The validity criteria for these CNTs may not identify the same causes of invalidity or be equally sensitive to effort. The validity indicators may not be equally appropriate for some athletes (eg, those with neurodevelopmental disorders).

Clinical Relevance:

The data suggest that athletes do not put forth widespread low effort or that some validity criteria are more sensitive to invalid performance than others. It is important for examiners to be aware of the conditions that maximize the quality of baseline assessments and to understand what sources of invalid performance are captured by the validity criteria that they obtain.
Knowledge Economy and the Commons
Authors: Macias Vazquez Alfredo , Alonso Gonzalez Pablo
Published: June 2015

Knowledge is increasingly thought of as a common good. This is exhibited in the fact that many central economies are moving towards economic paradigms where knowledge plays a fundamental role. This paper explores the confluence between both processes, asking in what ways an economic model based on the knowledge commons can open up new socioeconomic scenarios in the face of overwhelming neoliberal financialization.
Iron and aluminium oxides containing industrial wastes as adsorbents of heavy metals: Application possibilities and limitations
Authors: Jacukowicz-Sobala Irena , Ociński Daniel , Kociołek-Balawejder Elżbieta
Published: June 2015

Industrial wastes with a high iron or aluminium oxide content are produced in huge quantities as by-products of water treatment (water treatment residuals), bauxite processing (red mud) and hard and brown coal burning in power plants (fly ash). Although they vary in their composition, the wastes have one thing in common – a high content of amorphous iron and/or aluminium oxides with a large specific surface area, whereby this group of wastes shows very good adsorbability towards heavy metals, arsenates, selenates, etc. But their physical form makes their utilisation quite difficult, since it is not easy to separate the spent sorbent from the solution and high bed hydraulic resistances occur in dynamic regime processes. Nevertheless, because of the potential benefits of utilising the wastes in industrial effluent treatment, this issue attracts much attention today. This study describes in detail the waste generation processes, the chemical structure of the wastes, their physicochemical properties, and the mechanisms of fixing heavy metals and semimetals on the surface of iron and aluminium oxides. Typical compositions of wastes generated in selected industrial plants are given. A detailed survey of the literature on the adsorption applications of the wastes, including methods of their thermal and chemical activation, as well as regeneration of the spent sorbents, is presented. The existing and potential ways of modifying the physical form of the discussed group of wastes, making it possible to overcome the basic limitation on their practical use, are discussed.
Evaluation of the DIBELS (Sixth Edition) Diagnostic System for the Selection of Native and Proficient English Speakers at Risk of Reading Difficulties
Authors: Smolkowski Keith , Cummings Kelli D.
Published: June 2015

This comprehensive evaluation of the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills Sixth Edition (DIBELS6) set of measures gives a practical illustration of signal detection methods, the methods used to determine the value of screening and diagnostic systems, and offers an updated set of cut scores (decision thresholds). Data were drawn from a sample of 13,507 English-proficient students in kindergarten through Grade 3, with more than 4,500 students per grade level. Results indicate that most DIBELS6 measures accurately predict comprehensive test performance and that previously published decision thresholds for DIBELS6 are generally appropriate with some key exceptions. For example, the performance of phoneme segmentation fluency did not always meet expectations. The revised DIBELS6 decision thresholds can satisfactorily identify students who may require additional supports.
The Clinical Implications of Todd Paralysis in Children With Benign Rolandic Epilepsy
Authors: Dai Alper I. , Demiryürek Seniz
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and electroencephalographic (EEG) findings of postictal Todd paralysis in benign rolandic epilepsy of childhood and find out the possible correlation with migraine. Based on International Headache Society pediatric migraine criteria, patients were investigated for migraine, and 12 of the 108 patients with benign rolandic epilepsy (6 girls and 6 boys, 11.1%) were found to have postictal Todd paralysis. Ten of these 12 patients (83.3%) had pediatric migraine based on the diagnostic criteria. We showed comorbidity of migraine and benign rolandic epilepsy with postictal Todd paralysis in children. Increased incidence of migraine in the present study suggest that children who have benign rolandic epilepsy and postictal Todd paralysis are more likely to have migraines.
Medical Marijuana in Pediatric Neurological Disorders
Authors: Patel Anup D.
Published: June 2015

Marijuana and marijuana-based products have been used to treat medical disease. Recently, derivatives of the plant have been separated or synthesized to treat various neurological disorders, many of them affecting children. Unfortunately, data are sparse in regard to treating children with neurologic illness. Therefore, formal conclusions about the potential efficacy, benefit, and adverse effects for these products cannot be made at this time. Further robust research using strong scientific methodology is desperately needed to formally evaluate the role of these products in children.
Treating Substance Abuse and Trauma Symptoms in Incarcerated Women
Authors: Swopes Rachael M. , Davis Joanne L. , Scholl James A.
Published: June 2015

Incarcerated women report high rates of trauma exposure and substance use. The present study evaluated an integrated treatment program, Helping Women Recover/Beyond Trauma (HWR/BT), supplemented with additional modules on domestic violence, relapse prevention, and a 12-step program. The HWR/BT combined treatment program was compared with a matched comparison sample that did not receive the target treatment. Self-report measures were collected from 95 incarcerated women, with 56 women in the completer sample. Women in the treatment condition attended a 4-month group treatment. Results indicated statistically significant between-group differences, favoring the treatment condition, for negative posttraumatic cognitions. Pre–post, but not between-group, differences were also observed for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and substance-related self-efficacy, whereas no differences were observed for depression, dissociation, tension reduction, or anxious arousal. The present study indicates some promise for specific aspects of the treatment, although results question the overall benefit of the program over standard prison services.
Secure Attachment Moderates the Relation of Sexual Trauma With Trauma Symptoms Among Adolescents From an Inpatient Psychiatric Facility
Authors: Jardin Charles , Venta Amanda , Newlin Elizabeth , Ibarra Segundo , Sharp Carla
Published: June 2015

Experiencing sexual trauma has been linked to internalizing and externalizing psychopathologies. Insecure attachment has been shown to moderate the relation between sexual trauma and trauma symptoms among adults. However, few studies have explored relations among sexual trauma, attachment insecurity, and trauma symptoms in adolescence, and none have used developmentally appropriate measures. The present study sought to examine attachment security as a potential moderator of the relation between having a history of sexual trauma (HST) and trauma symptoms among adolescents at an inpatient psychiatric facility. Attachment to caregivers was measured by the Child Attachment Interview (CAI) and trauma symptoms by the Trauma Symptoms Checklist for Children (TSCC). HST was assessed with responses to two separate interviews that asked about traumatic experiences: the Computerized Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (C-DISC) and the CAI. Moderation analyses were conducted using univariate General Linear Modeling (GLM). Of the 229 study participants, 50 (21.8%) had a HST. The relation between HST and trauma symptoms was significantly moderated by insecure attachment with both mother, F(1, 228) = 4.818, p = .029, and father, F(1, 228) = 6.370, p = .012. Specifically, insecurely attached adolescents with a HST exhibited trauma symptoms at levels significantly greater than securely attached adolescents with a HST and adolescents with no HST. Results are consistent with previous research that suggests secure attachment may protect against the development of trauma symptoms among those who have experienced a sexual trauma.
The Revenge of the Capitalist Class: Crisis, the Legitimacy of Capitalism and the Restoration of Finance from the 1970s to Present
Authors: Volscho Thomas
Published: June 2015

In the 1970s, US capitalism suffered a legitimacy crisis as the economy was mired in high inflation, unemployment, and slower growth. The rate of profit had been decreasing since the late 1960s and by the mid-1970s Wall Street was in poor shape. Capitalists politically mobilized in the 1970s to restore the rate of profit and to restore power to economic elites. In this article, I examine changes to the American economic system with special focus on the perspectives of capitalist elites. While the rate of profit in industry was not restored by the “neoliberal” era, the rate of profit in the financial sector (albeit sometimes volatile) has increased beyond what it was prior to neoliberalism. Thus, the capitalist political mobilizations of the 1970s inadvertently put Wall Street back into power.
Book Review: Kumar, A. Vinod,India and the Non-proliferation Regime: The Perennial Outlier
Authors: Patil Kapil
Published: June 2015

Kumar, A. Vinod, India and the Non-proliferation Regime: The Perennial Outlier (New Delhi: Cambridge University Press, 2014). Pp. 221, Price ₹ 745.
The Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE)
Authors: Ismail Norliana , Hairi Farizah , Choo Wan Yuen , Hairi Noran Naqiah , Peramalah Devi , Bulgiba Awang
Published: June 2015

Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) is among the frequently used self-reported physical activity assessment for older adults. This study aims to assess the validity and reliability of a Malay version of this scale (PASE-M). A total of 408 community-dwelling older adults were enrolled. Concurrent validity was evaluated by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients between PASE with physical and psychosocial measures. Test-retest reliability was determined by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The mean PASE-M scores at baseline and follow-up were 94.96 (SD 62.82) and 92.19 (SD 64.02). Fair to moderate correlation were found between PASE-M and physical function scale, IADL ( rs = 0.429, P < .001), walking speed ( rs = 0.270, P < .001), grip strength ( rs = 0.313-0.339, P < .001), and perceived health status ( rs = −0.124, P = .016). Test-retest reliability was adequate (ICC = 0.493). The Malay version of PASE was shown to have acceptable validity and reliability. This tool is useful for assessing the physical activity level of elderly Malaysians.
Why Do Countries Differ in Their Rates of Outbound Student Mobility?
Authors: Kritz Mary M.
Published: June 2015

International student mobility has increased rapidly since 1975. This article examined country differences in outbound student mobility and the correlates of those differences. Previous studies have addressed this question but differ in their conclusions depending on whether they focus on factors associated with student outflows or inflows. UNESCO data were used to examine student outflows from 190 countries and evaluate the merits of the constrained-schooling thesis, which holds that students go abroad because they lack study opportunities at home. Ordinary least squares regression models estimated the relative importance of country structural factors in shaping the country’s outbound mobility ratios. The models showed that outbound student mobility was negatively and significantly related to sending country tertiary supply but not to tertiary demand net of other factors. Countries with large populations had fewer students abroad, but small ones had significantly more students abroad if they had less tertiary supply. Countries with higher gross domestic product per capita as well as North countries, in general, were found to have more students abroad. Spanish and Portuguese language countries have fewer students abroad compared with other countries.
One hundred years of lessons about the impact of war on mental health; two steps forward, one step back
Authors: McFarlane Alexander C
Published: June 2015

Objective:

This paper outlines the substantial stigmatization of soldiers who suffered psychiatric disorders during World War I, and how there was little acceptance of the enduring impact of prolonged combat exposure once the war ended.

Conclusion:

Recent decades of research highlight the delayed impact of combat exposure and its long-term neurobiological consequences.
Developing Feasible and Effective School-Based Interventions for Children With ASD
Authors: Dykstra Steinbrenner Jessica R. , Watson Linda R. , Boyd Brian A. , Wilson Kaitlyn P. , Crais Elizabeth R. , Baranek Grace T. , Flippin Michelle , Flagler Sally
Published: June 2015

Despite an emphasis on identifying evidence-based practices among researchers and using evidence-based practices among professionals in the field of education, there are still problems with uptake and implementation in real-world settings. This lack of diffusion of practices is evident in educational programming for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). One solution is to use an iterative process to develop interventions in which researchers work in collaboration with the end users to test and refine interventions. However, there are very few guidelines for developing feasible and effective interventions through these iterative processes. This article provides a description of the iterative process used to develop the Advancing Social-Communication and Play (ASAP) intervention, a supplemental program designed for public preschool classrooms serving students with ASD, and examples of how data from the sequence of iterative design studies shaped the intervention development. The research team offers guidelines for other researchers looking to engage in intervention development using an iterative process in the context of partnerships with end users, including suggestions for planning and executing an intervention development grant.
Effects of a Triadic Parent-Implemented Home-Based Communication Intervention for Toddlers
Authors: Brown Jennifer A. , Woods Juliann J.
Published: June 2015

A series of three multiple-baseline single-case studies with replication across nine parent–child dyads was used to evaluate the effects of a parent-implemented communication intervention on parent and child communication for toddlers with Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and developmental delays. Interventionists coached parents to implement communication strategies and supports in family-identified routines over 24 intervention sessions. Parents demonstrated increased responsive and modeling strategy use, and children exhibited higher rates of targeted communication forms from baseline to intervention phases. For eight of the nine dyads, the gains increased across the intervention phase, and effects were carried over into the maintenance phase. The results support the use of triadic parent-implemented communication interventions that can be implemented in the early intervention system. Clinical and research implications of teaching parents of toddlers with various etiologies to use responsive and modeling strategies through a collaborative family-guided coaching process are discussed.
Unmarked and Unheard
Authors: Grove Jonathan K.
Published: June 2015

This article responds to Walls and Billings’s call for a study of work in an Appalachian cultural context through a close qualitative examination of the experiences of White, working-class men. As such, intersectionality theory along with Marx’s theory of alienation guides the analysis. The article begins with a self-reflection that reveals the rationale and experience of the author’s return “home” to do scholarship in the complex setting within which he was raised, yet struggles to belong. Implications of this experience for the research are explored.
Cultural Trauma in the Lives of Men in Northern New Mexico
Authors: Talebreza-May Jon
Published: June 2015

This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews to explore the lives of four Nuevomexicano men. The men discussed how their interactions with mental health practitioners reflected the colonial history of the geographic region. The history of Spanish and Anglo colonialism in Northern New Mexico provides a context to the present day encounters the men had with the providers. The study reveals how the men consciously and unconsciously have assumed the role of personal and cultural protectors of the Nuevomexicano culture in Northern New Mexico. Personal, cultural, and societal forces continue to recapitulate the historical trauma in the area. To grieve the historical trauma faced in the geographic region, men need a place where they do not feel the continued need to protect.
Collaborative multidisciplinary design optimization: A framework applied on aircraft conceptual system design
Authors: Safavi Edris , Tarkian Mehdi , Gavel Hampus , Ölvander Johan
Published: June 2015

In a product development process, it is crucial to understand and evaluate multiple and synergic aspects of systems such as performance, cost, reliability, and safety. These aspects are mainly considered during later stages of the design process. However, in order to improve the foundations for decision-making, this article presents methods that are intended to increase the engineering knowledge in the early design phases. In complex products, different systems from a multitude of engineering disciplines have to work tightly together. Collaborative design is described as a process where a product is designed through the collective and joint efforts of domain experts. A collaborative multidisciplinary design optimization process is therefore proposed in the conceptual design phase in order to increase the likelihood of more accurate decisions being taken early on. The performance of the presented framework is demonstrated in an industrial application to design aircraft systems in the conceptual phase.
Look, Don’t Touch
Authors: Smith Melissa A. , Mead Patrick R. , Squire Peter N. , Coons Robert L. , Mead Allison S.
Published: June 2015

With each new technology interface introduced in the environment, users spend more time switching between and managing these interfaces. When the interfaces involve screen-based displays and controls, eye movements may provide an intuitive and efficient means of switching between screens. This research focused on evaluating manual keyboard and gaze-based control methods for switching control between displays of a simulated surveillance system. Results showed that gaze-based tracking was faster and produced lower subjective workload than using a manual keyboard. Operators’ performance was also consistent with Keystroke-Level Model–Goals Operators Methods Selection predictions for each control method. These findings identify gaze-based control as a viable method for switching control between multiple monitors.
Allograft Reconstruction of Chronic Tibialis Anterior Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Huh Jeannie , Boyette Deanna M. , Parekh Selene G. , Nunley James A.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Chronic ruptures of the tibialis anterior tendon are often associated with tendon retraction and poor-quality tissue, resulting in large segmental defects that make end-to-end repair impossible. Interpositional allograft reconstruction has previously been described as an operative option in these cases; however, there are no reports of the clinical outcomes of this technique in the literature.

Methods:

Eleven patients with chronic tibialis anterior tendon ruptures underwent intercalary allograft recon-struction between 2006 and 2013. Patient demographics, injury presentation, and details of surgery were reviewed. Postoperative outcomes at a mean follow-up of 43.8 (range, 6-105) months included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score, Short Form–12 (SF-12) physical health score, Lower Extremity Functional Score (LEFS), visual analog scale (VAS) pain rating, dorsiflexion strength, gait analysis, and complications.

Results:

The average postoperative dorsiflexion strength, as categorized by the Medical Council grading scale, was 4.8 ± 0.45. The average postoperative VAS score was 0.8 ± 1.1. The average LEFS was 66.9 ± 17.2, SF-12 physical health score was 40.1 ± 14.4, and AOFAS score was 84.3 ± 7.7. One complication occurred, consisting of transient neuritic pain in the superficial peroneal nerve distribution. There were no postoperative infections, tendon reruptures, reoperations, or allograft-associated complications.

Conclusion:

Allograft reconstruction of chronic irreparable tibialis anterior tendon ruptures yielded satisfactory strength, pain, and patient-reported functional outcomes. This technique offers a safe and reliable alternative, without the donor site morbidity associated with tendon transfer or autograft harvest.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Examination of a Parent-Assisted, Friendship-Building Program for Adolescents With ADHD
Authors: Gardner Denise M. , Gerdes Alyson C. , Weinberger Kelsey
Published: June 2015

Objective: Youth with ADHD experience significant impairment in peer functioning. Based on recommendations from the literature, the current pilot study examined the effectiveness of a parent-assisted, friendship-building program at establishing mutual friendships and improving peer relationships in adolescents with ADHD. Method: Participants included 20 adolescents with ADHD (ages 11-16 years) and their parent(s). Families completed the Program for the Evaluation and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS). Measures of friendship quality, social knowledge, social self-efficacy, get-togethers, and peer conflict were completed at baseline and post-treatment. At post-treatment, participants also reported on the initiation of a new friendship. Results: Baseline to post-treatment differences were examined using paired-samples t tests. The majority of participants reported the initiation of a new friendship at post-treatment. Adolescents also demonstrated significantly improved social knowledge and increased get-togethers. Effect sizes were large. Conclusion: Following participation in PEERS, adolescents improved in several peer functioning domains and many initiated new friendships.
Mercury Exposure and Endothelial Dysfunction
Authors: Omanwar Swati , Fahim M.
Published: June 2015

Vascular endothelium plays a vital role in the organization and function of the blood vessel and maintains homeostasis of the circulatory system and normal arterial function. Functional disruption of the endothelium is recognized as the beginning event that triggers the development of consequent cardiovascular disease (CVD) including atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. There is a growing data associating mercury exposure with endothelial dysfunction and higher risk of CVD. This review explores and evaluates the impact of mercury exposure on CVD and endothelial function, highlighting the interplay of nitric oxide and oxidative stress.
Clinical safety of robenacoxib in feline osteoarthritis: results of a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: King Jonathan N , King Stephen , Budsberg Steven C , Lascelles B Duncan X , Bienhoff Stephen E , Roycroft Linda M , Roberts Elizabeth S
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical safety of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) robenacoxib in cats with osteoarthritis. Degenerative joint disease, including osteoarthritis, is highly prevalent in cats and many cases have associated pain and impaired mobility. Although NSAIDs are used routinely to control pain and inflammation in cats with osteoarthritis, there are safety concerns because of the high concurrent prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the paucity of data on the safety of these drugs in target clinical populations.

Methods

A total of 194 cats with osteoarthritis were recruited and randomly allocated to receive either robenacoxib at a dosage of 1.0–2.4 mg/kg (n = 95) or placebo (n = 99) tablets PO q24h for 28 days. Safety was assessed in 193 cats, including a subgroup of 40 animals with concurrent CKD, defined as serum creatinine concentration ⩾1.6 mg/dl and urine specific gravity <1.030. Safety endpoints included reports of adverse events, results of clinical examinations, including body weight, and clinical chemistry and hematology variables.

Results

In all 193 cats and the subgroup of 40 animals with concurrent CKD, there were no differences between groups in frequencies of reported adverse events, body weight change or results of serum or urine chemistry or hematology variables.

Conclusions and relevance

Robenacoxib was well tolerated when administered daily for 1 month in cats with osteoarthritis, including cats with evidence of concurrent CKD. There was no clinical indication of damage to the gastrointestinal tract, kidney or liver.
Functional connectivity changes and their relationship with clinical disability and white matter integrity in patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sbardella Emilia , Tona F , Petsas N , Upadhyay N , Piattella MC , Filippini N , Prosperini L , Pozzilli C , Pantano P
Published: June 2015

Background and objective:

To define the pathological substrate underlying disability in multiple sclerosis by evaluating the relationship of resting-state functional connectivity with microstructural brain damage, as assessed by diffusion tensor imaging, and clinical impairments.

Methods:

Thirty relapsing–remitting patients and 24 controls underwent 3T-MRI; motor abilities were evaluated by using measures of walking speed, hand dexterity and balance capability, while information processing speed was evaluated by a paced auditory serial addiction task. Independent component analysis and tract-based spatial statistics were applied to RS-fMRI and diffusion tensor imaging data using FSL software. Group differences, after dual regression, and clinical correlations were modelled with General-Linear-Model and corrected for multiple comparisons.

Results:

Patients showed decreased functional connectivity in 5 of 11 resting-state-networks (cerebellar, executive-control, medial-visual, basal ganglia and sensorimotor), changes in inter-network correlations and widespread white matter microstructural damage. In multiple sclerosis, corpus callosum microstructural damage positively correlated with functional connectivity in cerebellar and auditory networks. Moreover, functional connectivity within the medial-visual network inversely correlated with information processing speed. White matter widespread microstructural damage inversely correlated with both the paced auditory serial addiction task and hand dexterity.

Conclusions:

Despite the within-network functional connectivity decrease and the widespread microstructural damage, the inter-network functional connectivity changes suggest a global brain functional rearrangement in multiple sclerosis. The correlation between functional connectivity alterations and callosal damage uncovers a link between functional and structural connectivity. Finally, functional connectivity abnormalities affect information processing speed rather than motor abilities.
Comparative analysis of treatment outcomes in patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder using multifaceted endpoints
Authors: Jeong In Hye , Park Boram , Kim Su-Hyun , Hyun Jae-Won , Joo Jungnam , Kim Ho Jin
Published: June 2015

Background:

There is still an unmet need for comparative analyses of available treatment options for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD).

Objective:

We aimed to compare the efficacies of the immunosuppressants most commonly prescribed for patients with NMOSD using multifaceted endpoints.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analysis of treatment outcomes in 138 NMOSD patients treated with azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), or rituximab. The primary outcome measures were the annualized relapse rate (ARR), annualized severe relapse rate, time to first relapse, and time to first severe relapse.

Results:

A comparison of any relapse among the groups revealed that the azathioprine had a significantly higher risk of relapse relative to the rituximab (hazard ratio: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.1–3.1; p=0.03). A comparison of severe relapse among the groups revealed that the hazard ratios of severe relapse for the azathioprine and MMF relative to the rituximab were 11.66 (95% CI: 2.6–52.3; p=0.001) and 5.96 (95% CI: 1.0–35.1; p=0.048), respectively. The times to first relapse and first severe relapse were also significantly different among the treatment groups

Conclusions:

The present study showed that reductions in the risks of relapse and severe relapse differed among patients who were initially treated with azathioprine, MMF, and rituximab.
Imaging and histological findings of fat embolism in the vena cava
Authors: de Vasconcelos Vladimir Tonello , da Silva Andriotti Carolina , Reicher Marcelo , Amorim Jorge Eduardo , Miranda Junior Fausto
Published: June 2015

We describe an unusual case of a post-traumatic fat embolism in the vena cava and left femoral vein identified on CT before the onset of fat embolism syndrome. The patient was successfully treated by insertion of a vena cava filter and venous thrombectomy. This is the first occurrence of early identification of a large fat embolus allowing its extraction before occurrence of severe respiratory failure.
Juvenile offenders in Vietnam and the right to defence
Authors: Pham Thi Thanh Nga
Published: June 2015

This article examines Vietnam’s regulations and practices concerning the right to defence of juvenile offenders in comparison with international standards. I use mixed methods including statistics and analysis of case studies. Research findings indicate that Vietnam’s laws firmly state the right to defence of juvenile offenders but lack specific guarantees for appropriate legal support and protection of privacy. In the implementation of the law, we can see various issues, including a lack of understanding of their rights by offenders and their representatives, and failure to provide appropriate defence for juvenile offenders among responsible agencies.
An Old Boys Club No More
Authors: Noland Marcus , Stahler Kevin
Published: June 2015

This article examines the growing diversity of participation and achievement in the Olympics. A wide set of socioeconomic variables are correlated with medaling, particularly with respect to the Summer Games and women’s events. Host advantage is particularly acute in judged contests such as gymnastics. However, there is evidence that the influence of correlates, such as country size, per capita income, and membership in the communist bloc is declining over time as competition becomes increasingly diverse. These effects are less evident in the Winter Games, events in which significant capital investments are required, and judged contests.
Evaluating silver tracks conductivity on flexible surfaces
Authors: Ghahremani Mozhdeh , Babaei Mohammadreza , Latifi Masoud
Published: June 2015

The development of electric circuit fabrication on flexible polymer substrates has attracted significant interest as a pathway to low-cost, comfortable movement and large-area electronics among direct printing techniques. The term electronic textiles, or e-textiles, are used to denote the class of fabric structures that integrate electronic elements with textiles and can sense changes in its environment and respond to it. This new class of wearable electronic systems is being designed to meet new and innovative applications in the military, public safety, healthcare, space exploration, sports and consumer fitness fields. In this paper the inkjet printing technique (office thermal inkjet printer) was used as a simple method to chemically deposit silver Nanoparticles (85–300 nm) to the flexible surface. It is done by ejection of silver nitrate and ascorbic acid as a reducing agent to attain nanometals on the surface. Ink concentration and repeating the printing sequence of each ink determines molar ratio ejection of ink and is found to be necessary to be evaluated in order to attain the highest level of conductivity. The main purpose of this work is to gain the highest conductive printed tracks by using statistical design of experiment method on the fabric surface by applying inkjet technique. By optimizing the mentioned parameters, the highest conductivity of printed flexible tracks on the surface of paper is gained 8.0635 × 105  S/m and the result for polyester fabric is obtained 1.2417 × 104  S/m whereas metallic silver wire has a conductivity of 6.173 × 107  S/m.
Ginsenoside Rb1 inhibits matrix metalloproteinase 13 through down-regulating Notch signaling pathway in osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang Wei , Zeng Li , Wang Ze-ming , Zhang Sihan , Rong Xiao-Feng , Li Rong-Heng
Published: June 2015

Mounting evidence suggests that an excess of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) plays an important role in the breakdown of extracellular matrix in osteoarthritis (OA). Here, the effects of ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1) on the expression of MMP-13 in IL-1β-induced SW 1353 chondrosarcoma cells and an experimental rat model of OA induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) were investigated. SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells were pretreated with or without GRb1 and Notch signaling pathway inhibitor, DAPT, then were stimulated with IL-1β. In rats, experimental OA was induced by ACLT. These rats then received intra-articular injections of vehicle, an inhibitor of γ-secretase, DAPT, and/or GRb1. Expression of MMP-13, collagen type II (CII), Notch1, and jagged 1 (JAG1) were verified by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. In addition, levels of MMP-13 mRNA were detected using quantitative real-time PCR. In histological analyses, treatment with DAPT reduced the number of cartilage lesions present and the expressions of MMP-13, CII, Notch1, and JAG1. In addition, treatment with GRb1 was associated with lower levels of Notch1 and JAG1 in both IL-1β-induced SW1353 chondrosarcoma cells and in the rat OA model. Furthermore, the suppressive effect of GRb1 on MMP-13 was greater than that exhibited by the signaling pathway inhibitor. In conclusion, GRb1 inhibits MMP-13 through down-regulating Notch signaling pathway in OA.
Generalization of Literacy Skills Through Portable Technology for Students With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Spooner Fred , Kemp-Inman Amy , Ahlgrim-Delzell Lynn , Wood Leah , Ley Davis Luann
Published: June 2015

Literacy is an important skill for accessing all academic content areas, and there has been an increased focus on using a variety of assistive technology (AT) to support the acquisition of literacy skills for students with severe disabilities. Literacy also provides these students with skills to increase community participation, with independence, with skills to make individual choices, and with opportunities for potential employment. Portable technology such as an iPad2® can be used to enhance literacy skills for students with severe disabilities in elementary school. A typical way to teach literacy to this population is through the use of a shared story. Although systematic instruction has proven to be an effective teaching strategy, the generality of the literacy skills usually has not been the focus of the training. In this study, five students with severe disabilities (IQ below 55, range in age 7-11 years, grade range 2nd-6th grades) were taught to generalize literacy skills via multiple exemplar training. A multiple probe design across participants demonstrated a functional relation between student responding and the intervention. Extension of what we currently know, limitations, and future research are discussed.
Symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression among Czech critical care and general surgical and medical ward nurses
Authors: Janda Robert , Jandová Eva
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Our aim was to determine the occurrence of posttraumatic symptoms and symptoms of anxiety and depression among nurses in a Czech tertiary hospital. In addition, we attempted to explore the relationship between stressful work factors, work overload and disturbed interpersonal relationships, and the appearance of their symptoms.

Methods

Nurses received an anonymous three-part questionnaire including PTSS-10 and HADS inventories.

Results

In the case of general nurses the most prevalent symptoms were of anxiety (44%), followed by symptoms of depression (15%) and then posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (7%). Similarly, for intensive care unit (ICU) nurses anxiety symptoms were the most prevalent (28%), followed by symptoms of depression (15%) and PTSD (3%). We identified certain specific traumatic factors present in particular workplaces (care for dying patients and the bodies of the deceased, and participation in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, all found in general units, and care for potential organ donors in ICUs). General nurses were less satisfied with their job and their workload was high. It seems that in both workplaces, the occurrence of symptoms of anxiety best correlated with several estimated markers of high workload.

Conclusion

The study revealed a high incidence of symptoms of anxiety, especially in general nurses, and it pointed to the low incidence of symptoms of PTSD. Our results are not in accordance with the conclusions of some studies published on this topic.
Providing ethical guidance for collaborative research in developing countries
Authors: Morris Nina
Published: June 2015

Experience has shown that the application of ethical guidelines developed for research in developed countries to research in developing countries can be, and often is, impractical and raises a number of contentious issues. Various attempts have been made to provide guidelines more appropriate to the developing world context; however, to date these efforts have been dominated by the fields of bioscience, medical research and nutrition. There is very little advice available for those seeking to undertake collaborative social science or natural science research in developing countries and what is there tends to be held within disparate sources. Charting the development of a set of ethics documentation for future use by the Ecosystem Services for Poverty Alleviation (ESPA) programme research community, this paper outlines past and present attitudes towards ethics procedures amongst this community and suggests ways in which ethics procedures might be made more relevant and user-friendly to researchers working in this area.
Biologics in inflammatory bowel disease: what are the data?
Authors: Côté-Daigneault Justin , Bouin Mickael , Lahaie Raymond , Colombel Jean-Frédéric , Poitras Pierre
Published: June 2015

Background

Over the last decade, biologics have gained an important place for the treatment of moderate to severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and many randomized control trials have evaluated their efficacy.

Aim

The goal of this review is to analyze the results of these trials and to highlight the evidence and indications emerging from these studies for their implementation in the management of IBD patients.

Methods

A PubMed search was realized to screen high‐quality clinical trials studying biologic agents currently available in clinics for the treatment of IBD. Words used were: “infliximab,” “adalimumab,” “certolizumab,” “golimumab,” “natalizumab,” “vedolizumab,” “ustekinumab,” “azathioprine,” “methotrexate,” “Crohn's disease,” and “ulcerative colitis.”

Results

In Crohn's disease, studies supporting induction and maintenance therapies were documented for infliximab, adalimumab, certolizumab, natalizumab, vedolizumab, and ustekinumab. Infliximab, adalimumab, and certolizumab have evidences for fistulizing Crohn's disease and only infliximab and adalimumab have evidences for mucosal healing. In ulcerative colitis, studies supporting induction, maintenance, and mucosal healing were found with infliximab, adalimumab, golimumab, and vedolizumab. Only infliximab was associated with evidences for combination therapy with thiopurine and acute severe colitis in ulcerative colitis.

Conclusion

Management with biologics in IBD patients is well validated by high‐quality clinical trials.