bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problem music and its different shades over its fans
Authors: Bodner Ehud , Bensimon Moshe
Published: April 2014

During the last two decades, researchers have investigated the association between genres of “problem music” (PM) and conservatism, delinquency and major psychological traits. The current study adds an exploration of PM fans’ attitudes toward the body and tattooing, as well as on mood regulation through PM, two aspects that have not been studied. In addition we examined delinquency and several psychological attributes. In Study 1, 446 undergraduates completed scales for body investment, delinquency, conservatism, and self-esteem. In Study 2, 548 undergraduates completed scales for music in mood regulation and the Big Five personality inventory. Data concerning the presence of tattooing and some socio-demographic details were collected in both studies. In Study 1, in comparison with controls, PM fans reported lower body protection scores, less conservatism, and more delinquent behaviours. In Study 2, they reported more use of music as a way to regulate mood. In both studies, fans reported more tattooing. No significant differences emerged in self-esteem and personality measures. While being in accordance with some of the previous findings, our results show that, in spite of the association between PM and negative attitudes toward one’s body and delinquency, PM may assist fans to regulate their mood and alleviate tension.
Sports and Activity Levels After Open Surgical Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Naal Florian D. , Schär Michael , Miozzari Hermes H. , Nötzli Hubert P.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Several studies indicate that professional athletes can successfully return to competition after surgical treatment of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). However, little is known about sports and activity levels after FAI surgery in the general patient population.

Hypothesis/Purpose:

The purpose was to determine the sports behavior, satisfaction with sports ability, and activity levels in a consecutive cohort of patients with FAI who were treated by surgical hip dislocation. The hypothesis was that the majority of patients (>75%) would be active in sports at follow-up.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 153 patients (mean age, 30.0 years; 40.5% female) with 192 hips treated. Sports behavior and satisfaction were determined at a mean follow-up of 59.4 months with the use of a questionnaire. Activity levels at follow-up were assessed by the Hip Sports Activity Scale (HSAS) and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scale.

Results:

Of 126 patients who were regularly active in sports before surgery, 107 (85%) were so at follow-up. Nineteen patients (12.4%) stopped participating in regular sports, and 8 (5.2%) commenced with sports after the operation. The most popular activities before surgery were skiing (22%), cycling (22%), jogging (20%), and soccer (13%). At follow-up, most patients were engaged in cycling (23%), fitness/weight training (20%), skiing (18%), and jogging (11%). Of all patients, 75% were satisfied with their sports ability, and 25% were not. Moreover, 60.3% stated that their sports ability had improved after surgery, 20.5% declared no change, and 19.2% were subjectively deteriorated. The mean pain level during sports was rated to be 2.1 according to the visual analog scale. The mean HSAS score was 3.5 (range, 0-8), and the mean UCLA score was 7.7 (range, 3-10); male patients reported significantly higher scores than did female patients on the HSAS (4.1 vs 2.7, respectively) and UCLA scale (8.2 vs 7.0, respectively).

Conclusion:

The vast majority of patients with FAI who are treated by surgical hip dislocation return to sports activities, and most patients are satisfied with their sports ability at midterm follow-up. Activity levels are significantly higher in male patients, but this does not yield higher satisfaction rates.
Die-less hydroforming of multi-lobe tubular structures
Authors: Hummel Steve , Ngaile Gracious
Published: April 2014

The process capability of die-less hydroforming for producing tubular structures of complex geometries was investigated. Multi-lobe tubular structures were chosen for this study as they are capable of carrying higher loads than normal tubes of the same weight. The forming characteristics of three variants of tubular geometry with longitudinal lobes, circumferential lobes, and helical lobes were studied through numerical analysis. The parameters that were investigated were tube wall thickness, tube diameter, tube length-to-diameter ratio, pressure loading paths, and lobe-forming patterns. The finite element analysis showed that the length of the tube does not influence the lobe formation for all three tube variants. The finite element analysis results also demonstrated that lobe wall thinning varies linearly with hydroforming pressure for all multi-lobe tube patterns studied. The strength-to-weight benefit of the tubular structures was also verified through finite element analysis for annealed stainless steel tube sample of 200 mm length, 40 mm diameter, and 2 mm wall thickness. The longitudinal lobed geometry, circumferential lobed geometry, and the helical lobed geometry all were able to carry significantly larger loads as compared to a blank tube of the same mass under compressive, flexural, and torsional loading conditions. To test the viability of the die-less hydroforming process, a longitudinal lobed tubular structure was fabricated and formed. The results from this study indicate that a die-less hydroforming manufacturing process is viable and capable of producing strong, lightweight parts of complex geometries. Besides being capable of producing complex tubular structures, the costs associated with die-less hydroforming are significantly lower due to the absence of a press and dies. However, preparation of tubular blanks requires reliable weld seams and rolling operations.
The pillowing tendency of materials in single-point incremental forming: Experimental and finite element analyses
Authors: Al-Ghamdi KA , Hussain G
Published: April 2014

The pillow is a defect that adversely affects the geometrical accuracy as well as the formability in single-point incremental forming. With a main objective to control this defect, the effects of mechanical properties of material on pillowing are examined in this work. To identify the mechanical property that significantly affects pillowing, single-point incremental forming tests are conducted using a variety of materials (i.e. 11). It is found that a property (i.e. area reduction at tensile fracture) that controls the formability of a material in single-point incremental forming does not have any significant effect on its pillowing tendency. Interestingly, hardening exponent (i.e. a property that has controlling influence on the stretch-ability of material) appears to be the most influential property that determines the pillowing tendency of sheet metals in single-point incremental forming. Furthermore, the pillowing tendency of a material decreases with the decrease in this particular property. This, according to finite element analysis, occurs because strain localization around the tool/sheet contact correspondingly increases. To select and rank materials with respect to the pillowing behavior, a formula describing the property–pillowing relationship is proposed. As a secondary objective, the correlation between pillowing and forming depth is also investigated in this work. It is shown that initially the pillow progresses as the forming depth increases. However, after forming has been carried out to a certain depth, the pillow begins to regress, most likely due to strain hardening of sheet metal. In conclusion, it is suggested to lower the hardening exponent of sheet metals in order to control pillowing in single-point incremental forming.
Nonlocal vibration and instability analysis of embedded DWCNT conveying fluid under magnetic field with slip conditions consideration
Authors: Arani A Ghorbanpour , Haghparast E , Maraghi Z Khoddami , Amir S
Published: April 2014

In this study, vibration of double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) conveying fluid placed in uniform magnetic field is carried out based on nonlocal elasticity theory. DWCNT is embedded in Pasternak foundation and is simulated as a Timoshenko beam (TB) model which includes rotary inertia and transverse shear deformation in the formulation. Considering slip boundary conditions and van der Waals (vdW) forces between inner and the outer nanotubes, the governing equations of motion are discretized and differential quadrature method (DQM) is applied to obtain the frequency of DWCNTs for clamped–clamped boundary condition. The detailed parametric study is conducted, focusing on the remarkable effects of small scale, Knudsen number, elastic medium, magnetic field, density, and velocity of conveying fluid on the stability of DWCNT. Results indicate that considering slip boundary conditions has significant effect on stability of DWCNTs. Also, it is found that trend of figures have good agreement with the previous researches. Results of this investigation could be applied for optimum design of nano/micro mechanical devices for controlling stability of DWCNTs conveying fluid under magnetic fields.
Collection development policy: How its absence has affected collection development practices at Mzuzu University Library
Authors: Chaputula Aubrey Harvey , Kanyundo Allan James
Published: April 2014

The aim of this study is to determine how the absence of a collection development policy is affecting collection development practices at Mzuzu University Library. This research is a case study that makes use of a sequential mixed design which means that data was collected in a number of stages. The researchers personally collected data from the field using a semi-structured questionnaire, tape recorder, and coding schedules. The main data collection procedure was a focus-group discussion involving senior library members of staff. Researchers also carried out physical inspection and analysis of books from the Acquisitions Department, and Reading Area. Qualitative data collected was analysed thematically, whilst quantitative data was analysed using MS Excel. The study found out that the absence of a collection development policy has greatly affected collection development practices at Mzuzu University Library. Most of the core collection development practices such as selection, acquisition, weeding and preservation were haphazardly done as there were no clearly documented guidelines to guide the various individuals that were involved in the implementation of these collection development tasks to ensure consistency. The findings of this study are significant because they could be a catalyst for the development of collection development policy at Mzuzu University Library, which might in the long run provide solutions to collection development challenges which the institution currently faces.
Factors affecting the adoption of e-books by information professionals
Authors: Aharony Noa
Published: April 2014

One of the innovations that information technology has presented within information organizations is the phenomenon of e-books. This study seeks to explore information professionals’ attitudes towards e-books adoption. The current study uses the Technology Acceptance Model, a well-known theory for explaining individuals’ technology behaviors (Davis, 1989; Venkatesh and Morris, 2000), as well as personal characteristics such as motivation and cognitive appraisal as theoretical bases from which we can predict factors that may influence information professionals adopting e-books within their organizations. An empirical study was conducted in which 169 participants took part. Using structural equation modeling, we confirm that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, personal innovativeness and other personal characteristics, are predictors of behavioral intention to use e-books. Results highlight the importance of individual characteristics when considering technology acceptance. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Information literacy: A cornerstone for open distance learning at the University of South Africa
Authors: Mnkeni-Saurombe Nampombe
Published: April 2014

Librarians in open distance learning institutions are actively encouraged to develop and implement information literacy programmes for students and academics. This has become a necessity in an open distance learning environment because students and academics function in an information environment that is rapidly developing and becoming increasingly complex. Information literacy is described as a skill that is central to learning. Furthermore, rapid development in technology and the proliferation of information has also led to the transformation of teaching methods at open distance learning institutions. As we embrace methods such as e-learning or blended learning, information literacy training still remains an important factor in producing successful programmes. This paper provides an overview of information literacy training carried out by a group of personal librarians at the University of South Africa library. Information literacy training practice and challenges were identified from the literature as well as a web-based survey. Suggestions on how to tackle these challenges are also offered. This brief study suggests that librarians in open distance learning institutions need to adapt their information literacy training practice to suit their clients’ needs in a progressive open distance learning environment.
Is the library a third place for young people?
Authors: Lin Hui , Pang Natalie , Luyt Brendan
Published: April 2014

Despite some previous contributions from the library and information science community to the ongoing scholarly discussions of space and place, the research on ‘library as place’ in the context of young people has received scant attention. To address this gap, a case study of the Jurong Regional Library as place for young people in Singapore was carried out. Oldenburg’s third place concept was deployed as a framework to explore the meaning and role of the Jurong Regional Library for young people in Singapore. Although we found that the library does not function as a third place as advocated by Oldenburg in the strictest sense, it does show that the library is a relevant and engaging place for young people in Singapore. For young people in Singapore, the library is also a social place, study place, as well as information and/or entertainment place. As a social place, young people socialize with others from diverse backgrounds via the library. The ambience of the library creates conducive environment for young people to stay and study diligently. Imbued with collective knowledge, the library is also a place where young people can satisfy their needs for information and/or entertainment.
Analysis of the factors affecting the quality of service in public libraries in Korea
Authors: Bae Kyung-Jae , Cha Sung-Jong
Published: April 2014

This study examined the influence of Korean public libraries’ service quality factors on overall user satisfaction and loyalty. The service quality factors analyzed were collections, staff, programs, facilities, online services, and accessibility. To measure the effects of these factors, 3000 users of 60 public libraries across Korea were surveyed. The results of the survey indicated that users perceived the staff and facilities factors to be of high quality, whereas the programs and online services factors were perceived as lower quality. In order of influence, collections, accessibility, and facilities factors were found to be highly influential on overall satisfaction, while the programs and online services factors had relatively low influence. Additionally, while the overall satisfaction, convenience of visit, and facilities factors had a high influence on user loyalty, the collection and program factors had relatively low influence. Based on these results, this study makes recommendations to improve library services to meet users’ needs.
Libraries’ positions on copyright: A comparative analysis between Japan and China
Authors: Wang Ying , Yang Xiaoqiu
Published: April 2014

The extent of libraries’ compliance with copyright laws is unclear. This study aims to make clear libraries’ positions in relation to copyright concerns as well as the extent of their compliance with copyright laws. A comparative content analysis of libraries’ copyright information in Japan and China, as stated on university library websites, was utilized here in order to identify similarities and differences in libraries’ compliance with national copyright law. Findings were that Japanese libraries mentioned copyright more than their Chinese counterparts. Moreover, Japanese libraries devoted more efforts to providing copyright information than their Chinese counterparts. In addition, Japanese library websites provided copyright information in more locations than their Chinese counterparts. Japanese libraries were engaged in copyright activities; conversely, none were detected in their Chinese counterparts (except for Hong Kong). The paper concluded with recommendations for both countries.
Teachers’ views of information literacy practices in secondary education: A qualitative study in the Greek educational setting
Authors: Togia Aspasia , Korobili Stella , Malliari Aphrodite , Nitsos Ilias
Published: April 2014

The aim of the paper is to explore the perceptions of secondary education teachers in Greece about their students’ information literacy skills and to investigate whether teachers have incorporated some form of information literacy instruction into their teaching to help students familiarize themselves with the research process. Qualitative methods of data collection and analysis were used, as the study sought to illuminate individuals’ opinions and understanding of the meanings and values of information literacy, not quantification of responses. The primary method of data collection was semi-structured interviews. The transcripts were analysed thematically using the Atlas.ti software package. The study revealed that information literacy skills are developed in the school context chiefly by the assignment of school work or research projects. Almost all teachers were very critical of students’ information skills, but they were not fully aware of how to teach information skills, and the most common way of teaching information literacy was giving advice about specific sources. They appreciated the need to prepare information literate students but they reported various problems in their effort to apply research-based teaching. The paper provides an empirically based, enhanced understanding of students’ information literacy competencies from the teachers’ point of view. It also raises the issues of the content, structure and organization of information literacy experiences offered in the context of secondary education, from the teachers’ perspective.
Designing a GIS-based planning support system for a public library building project
Authors: Lim Ho-kyun , Park Sung Jae
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study is to establish a geographic information systems (GIS)-based specialized information system using statistical information on both population and public libraries to support public library building projects. This developed system, called GIS-based Library Planning Support System (GLPSS), consists of a database and three operation modules which provide specific outputs from the data. The database includes geographic information, statistics on the population, and library information. One of the operation modules generates a service population using both grid technique and population density of the service area. Another operation module, a physical space program for a public library, is created with reference to an analysis of space in 141 public libraries. The third operation module is designed to calculate building costs and is based on specialized guidelines for library buildings. GLPSS provides for the building of public libraries in optimal regions, reflecting the characteristics of the local society and the distribution of the service target population. Because of its web-based nature, this support system has the advantage of convenient information updating and management. If GLPSS is applied to the planning of public libraries, it will also be able to support the planning of building projects by other authorities by providing similar public library building cases according to the regions and prevailing circumstances.
Uncovering information literacy’s disciplinary differences through students’ attitudes: An empirical study
Authors: Pinto Maria , Sales Dora
Published: April 2014

This paper uses a self-assessment questionnaire (IL-HUMASS) with a wide sample of university students. The questionnaire puts forward a scale of attitudes that aim to measure ‘belief in importance’ and ‘skills self-assessment’ regarding diverse information competences. We use a group of 26 information sub-competences gathered in four categories (searching, evaluation, processing and communication-dissemination). The results show some considerable differences in these categories when statistically comparing 17 university degrees related to five branches of knowledge. It is proved that attitudes appreciably vary between branches, in reverse relation to the interdisciplinary differences we have found. An improvement regarding students’ informational attitudes will help reduce the interdisciplinary differences. The results of this study suggest the feasibility of shared training actions for some information competences in the branches of Sciences, Engineering & Architecture, and Health Sciences. The branches of Arts & Humanities and Social & Legal Sciences show considerable widespread attitudinal differences that advise against that shared training.
Comparing digital libraries in the web and mobile contexts from the perspective of the digital divide
Authors: Zha Xianjin , Zhang Jinchao , Yan Yalan
Published: April 2014

Building on concepts of the digital divide, this study explores and compares users’ perceptions of web digital libraries and mobile digital libraries in terms of ease of use and usefulness. Data collected from 306 university library users were analyzed. Two figures were used to present the exact nature of users’ perceptions of ease of use and usefulness in terms of data distribution. These figures were supplemented by the paired samples t test which presents the exact mean difference between web digital libraries and mobile digital libraries in terms of ease of use and usefulness. The data distribution suggests that there are more users who think digital libraries are both easy to use and useful whereas mobile digital libraries are neither easy to use nor useful. The mean comparison of ease of use and usefulness shows that web digital libraries significantly exceed mobile digital libraries. These findings and implications are discussed.
An Integrated Theory of Hot Spots Patrol Strategy
Authors: Sherman Lawrence W. , Williams Stephen , Ariel Barak , Strang Lucinda R. , Wain Neil , Slothower Molly , Norton Andre
Published: May 2014

In late 2013, Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) conducted the first randomized experiment ever to test a hot spots patrol strategy (HSPS) across large areas, as distinct from testing extra patrols one hot spot at a time. The HSPS experiment required, and helped to refine, a formal theory of both the causes and effects of directed patrols in hot spots. This article presents an integrated theory of how to implement an HSPS in ways that maximize the preventive effects of patrol on crime. It then describes the HSPS experimental protocol used to test the theory in Trinidad. The key elements of HSPS are scaling up from specific hot spot locations to a district-wide focus on all its hot spots and feeding back to the constables who provide hot spots patrols data on what they have done and with what effect—presented every 2 weeks, at a district-level “COP-stat” meeting with the people actually doing the patrols.
Dialogue on Ideal End-of-Life Care for Those With Dementia
Authors: Stewart-Archer Lois A. , Afghani Afrooz , Toye Christine M. , Gomez Frank A.
Published: April 2014

Purpose:

To identify both meanings and perceptions of delivery of end-of-life (EoL) care for the person experiencing dementia.

Design/Methods:

As part of a larger cross-sectional mixed methods study examining quality of life in dementia, perspectives of EoL care were sought from 136 seniors using open-ended questions administered at interview.

Results:

Seniors living in various settings identified obligatory requisites of care as time when the finality of death needed to be accepted, comfort was prioritized, family presence was valued, appearance remained important, and solitude or time “to be with God” was stressed. Skilled nursing care, honesty, and engaged family were also necessary.

Implications:

Understanding EoL preferences of those with dementia is critical for advocacy and service delivery.
Diabetes Management in End of Life
Authors: Dionisio R. , Giardini A. , De Cata P. , Pirali B. , Rossi S. , Negri E. M. , Ferrari P. , Preti P.
Published: April 2014

The increasing coexistence of cancer and diabetes within the elderly population requires specific palliative care skills on diabetes treatment. We report our experience of diabetes management in a palliative care setting. In our retrospective 3-year activity sample (n = 563), 27.2% of patients have a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus: 80% have cancer whereas 20% have a main diagnosis of other severe chronic diseases. As to the presence/absence of diabetes, no differences emerge in the examined clinical indicators and global survival, with the exception of body mass index and days of hospitalization. At lifetime analysis, Barthel index and palliative prognostic index are the only parameters significantly related to death. Even if diabetes seems not to modify the prognosis, it significantly influences the health care burden and the team engagement.
Vibration control of an optical table employing mechatronic inerter networks
Authors: Wang Fu-Cheng , Wu Sheng-Yao
Published: April 2014

This paper applies a newly developed mechatronic inerter network to suppress vibrations of a full optical table. Optical tables are normally applied to insulate precision machines from two types of disturbances: ground disturbances from the environment and load disturbances from the equipment. These two disturbances can be independently controlled by disturbance response decoupling (DRD) techniques. For example, we can isolate the ground disturbances by soft passive suspensions and improve the load responses by active control. However, the passive elements cannot be easily adjusted according to the operating conditions. Therefore, this paper applies mechatronic inerter networks to a full optical table, and optimizes the ground responses by connecting the networks to suitable electric circuits. We then apply DRD techniques to improve the load responses without influencing the ground responses. The designed mechatronic inerter networks and active controllers are implemented to a full optical table for experimental verification. Based on the results, the proposed mechatronic inerter networks and DRD structures are deemed effective in improving system responses.
The role of anthracyclines in the treatment of early breast cancer
Authors: Greene John , Hennessy Bryan
Published: April 2014

We review the use of anthracyclines, their associated cardiotoxicity, and the role of taxanes in the treatment of early breast cancer. The efficacy of anthracyclines has been proven in multiple large cohort trials and meta-analyses. The addition of a taxane to an anthracycline-based regimen in the adjuvant setting has improved the disease-free survival and overall survival in patients with early breast cancer. The use of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab combined with an anthracycline and taxane regimen has had significant benefit both in disease-free survival and overall survival in patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER2)–positive disease. However, the development of significant cardiotoxicity related to anthracyclines and the emergence of newer agents that appear to limit the cardiotoxicity but with similar anticancer efficacy have called the role of anthracyclines into doubt. Taxane/trastuzumab-based chemotherapy without anthracyclines is now a widely accepted adjuvant regimen in patients with HER2–positive early breast cancer. Indeed, the use of taxanes in early breast cancer has overtaken the use of anthracyclines, particularly in women with HER2–positive breast cancer. Concerns regarding anthracycline cardiotoxicity and positive data from taxane-based regimens likely have contributed to this change in practice. Ongoing trials will determine whether taxane-based chemotherapy has equivalent efficacy to anthracycline-based regimens in adjuvant therapy of HER2–negative early breast cancer. Moving forward, the use of anthracyclines as initial chemotherapy in early breast cancer may continue to be replaced by taxane-based and novel regimens in the future.
Decision-Making Under Risk
Authors: Mishra Sandeep
Published: April 2014

Decision-making under risk has been variably characterized and examined in many different disciplines. However, interdisciplinary integration has not been forthcoming. Classic theories of decision-making have not been amply revised in light of greater empirical data on actual patterns of decision-making behavior. Furthermore, the meta-theoretical framework of evolution by natural selection has been largely ignored in theories of decision-making under risk in the human behavioral sciences. In this review, I critically examine four of the most influential theories of decision-making from economics, psychology, and biology: expected utility theory, prospect theory, risk-sensitivity theory, and heuristic approaches. I focus especially on risk-sensitivity theory, which offers a framework for understanding decision-making under risk that explicitly involves evolutionary considerations. I also review robust empirical evidence for individual differences and environmental/situational factors that predict actual risky decision-making that any general theory must account for. Finally, I offer steps toward integrating various theoretical perspectives and empirical findings on risky decision-making.
Attrition in Chronic Disease Self-Management Programs and Self-Efficacy at Enrollment
Authors: Verevkina Nina , Shi Yunfeng , Fuentes-Caceres Veronica Alejandra , Scanlon Dennis Patrick
Published: April 2014

Among other goals, the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) is designed to improve self-efficacy of the chronically ill. However, a substantial proportion of the enrollees often leave CDSMPs before completing the program curriculum. This study examines factors associated with program attrition in a CDSMP implemented in a community setting. We used data from the Our Pathways to Health program, implemented in Humboldt County, California, from 2008 to 2011. Our conceptual framework is based on Bandura’s self-efficacy theory, and we used logistic regression to investigate whether baseline self-efficacy and other members’ efficacy are associated with participants dropping out of the CDSMP. Twenty-three percent of the participants did not complete the program similar to previous studies. Lower baseline self-efficacy increased the odds of dropout, but other members’ efficacy was not associated with differential odds of dropout. Age, educational difference between the individual and the group, weekday sessions, and social/role activity limitations are also found to be associated with program attrition. Our results suggest that participants with low starting self-efficacy may need extra help to complete the program. Further research is needed to understand how to effectively provide additional support to this group.
Antiviral treatment of feline immunodeficiency virus-infected cats with (R)-9-(2-phosphonylmethoxypropyl)-2,6-diaminopurine
Authors: Taffin Elien , Paepe Dominique , Goris Nesya , Auwerx Joeri , Debille Mariella , Neyts Johan , Van de Maele Isabel , Daminet Sylvie
Published: April 2014

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), the causative agent of an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in cats (feline AIDS), is a ubiquitous health threat to the domestic and feral cat population, also triggering disease in wild animals. No registered antiviral compounds are currently available to treat FIV-infected cats. Several human antiviral drugs have been used experimentally in cats, but not without the development of serious adverse effects. Here we report on the treatment of six naturally FIV-infected cats, suffering from moderate to severe disease, with the antiretroviral compound ( R)-9-(2-phosphonylmethoxypropyl)-2,6-diaminopurine ([ R]-PMPDAP), a close analogue of tenofovir, a widely prescribed anti-HIV drug in human medicine. An improvement in the average Karnofsky score (pretreatment 33.2 ± 9.4%, post-treatment 65±12.3%), some laboratory parameters (ie, serum amyloid A and gammaglobulins) and a decrease of FIV viral load in plasma were noted in most cats. The role of concurrent medication in ameliorating the Karnofsky score, as well as the possible development of haematological side effects, are discussed. Side effects, when noted, appeared mild and reversible upon cessation of treatment. Although strong conclusions cannot be drawn owing to the small number of patients and lack of a placebo-treated control group, the activity of ( R)-PMPDAP, as observed here, warrants further investigation.
Acute motor and sensory polyganglioradiculoneuritis in a cat: clinical and histopathological findings
Authors: Gutierrez-Quintana Rodrigo , Cuesta-Garcia Nerea , Wessmann Annette , Johnston Pamela , Penderis Jacques
Published: April 2014

Polyneuropathies can have a variety of clinical presentations and tend to be rare in cats. In this report we describe a 6-year-old domestic shorthair cat with an acute and rapidly progressive onset of lower motor neuron and sensory signs affecting the spinal and cranial nerves. Histopathological examination revealed moderate-to-severe multifocal inflammatory infiltrates at the ventral and dorsal nerve roots, and dorsal spinal ganglia at the level of the L4 and cauda equina. The type and severity of inflammation varied between nerve roots, being composed of mainly neutrophils in some and mainly lymphocytes and macrophages in others. Immunohistochemistry showed a combination of neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes infiltrating the nerve roots and ganglia. The majority of the lymphocytes were T lymphocytes; only a few B lymphocytes were seen. Neurons within the affected ganglia showed central chromatolysis and necrosis. Wallerian-like degeneration and demyelination were observed in the nerve roots. A sensory and motor polyganglioradiculoneuritis was diagnosed. An autoimmune process similar to the acute motor and sensory neuropathy subtype of Guillain–Barré syndrome in humans or an infection by an unidentified agent were considered most likely.
A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of D-cycloserine and Distributed Practice as Adjuvants to Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy After Stroke
Authors: Nadeau Stephen E. , Davis Sandra E. , Wu Samuel S. , Dai Yunfeng , Richards Lorie G.
Published: April 2014

Background. Phase III trials of rehabilitation of paresis after stroke have proven the effectiveness of intensive and extended task practice, but they have also shown that many patients do not qualify, because of severity of impairment, and that many of those who are treated are left with clinically significant deficits. Objective. To test the value of 2 potential adjuvants to normal learning processes engaged in constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT): greater distribution of treatment over time and the coadministration of d-cycloserine, a competitive agonist at the glycine site of the N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor. Methods. A prospective randomized single-blind parallel-group trial of more versus less condensed therapy (2 vs 10 weeks) and d-cycloserine (50 mg) each treatment day versus placebo (in a 2 × 2 design), as potential adjuvants to 60 hours of CIMT. Results. Twenty-four participants entered the study, and 22 completed it and were assessed at the completion of treatment and 3 months later. Neither greater distribution of treatment nor treatment with d-cycloserine significantly augmented retention of gains achieved with CIMT. Conclusions. Greater distribution of practice and treatment with d-cycloserine do not appear to augment retention of gains achieved with CIMT. However, concentration of CIMT over 2 weeks (“massed practice”) appears to confer no advantage either.
Does nerve repair influence the outcome of reconstruction of a digital nail defect using a free composite flap taken from the great toe?
Authors: Zhang X. , Chen C. , Li Y. , Shao X. , Guo W. , Sun J.
Published: April 2014

We describe reconstruction of a nail unit defect in the finger using a free composite flap taken from the great toe, comparing the outcome in patients in whom neurorrhaphy between the dorsal digital nerve of the great toe and the dorsal branch of the proper digital nerve of the injured finger was performed to those in which no nerve repair was made. From January 2002 to March 2009, 47 patients with traumatic fingernail defects were treated. Twenty-two patients before February 2005 had no nerve repair and subsequently 25 patients had nerve repair. The mean size of the germinal matrix and sterile matrix defects was 9 × 8 mm, and the mean size of the nail bed flaps was 9 × 9 mm. The mean length of the arteries used for the flap was 2.2 cm. Outcomes were rated. In the nerve repair group, full flap survival was achieved in 24 patients. At the mean follow-up period of 25 months, there were 12 excellent, seven very good, four good, and two fair results. In the comparison group without nerve repair, there were seven excellent, four very good, four good, five fair, and two poor results. Donor site morbidities were similar in both groups. The use of a free composite flap taken from the great toe is a useful technique for reconstructing nail unit defects in the finger. Innervated nail flap reconstructions tended to show better outcomes than those in which no nerve repair was performed. There is no difference in function or donor site between those in whom the nerve was repaired compared with those in whom it was not repaired.
A Single Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection for Chronic Midsubstance Achilles Tendinopathy
Authors: Murawski Christopher D. , Smyth Niall A. , Newman Hunter , Kennedy John G.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a series of patients undergoing a single platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for the treatment of chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy, in whom conservative treatment had failed. Thirty-two patients underwent a single PRP injection for the treatment of chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy and were evaluated at a 6-month final follow-up using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score and Short Form 12 general health questionnaire. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed on all patients prior to and 6 months after injection. Twenty-five of 32 patients (78%) reported that they were asymptomatic at the 6-month follow-up visit and were able to participate in their respective sports and daily activities. The remaining 7 patients (22%) who reported symptoms that did not improve after 6 months ultimately required surgery. Four patients went on to have an Achilles tendoscopy, while the other 3 had an open debridement via a tendon splitting approach. A retrospective evaluation of patients receiving a single PRP injection for chronic midsubstance Achilles tendinopathy revealed that 78% had experienced clinical improvement and had avoided surgical intervention at 6-month follow-up.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Retrospective case series
Performing Elective Surgery on the Breastfeeding Patient
Authors: Lobkova Nelya , Wolf Edwin W.
Published: April 2014

The prevalence of breastfeeding among women in the United States is increasing along with the understanding of the importance of continually and exclusively breastfeeding an infant in the first half year of life. Modern necessities and problems evoke questions about what medications can be safely utilized by a breastfeeding mother and which procedures she may safely undergo. Planning elective surgery for a patient who is breastfeeding is a challenge because of insufficient studies regarding medication safety, apprehension among patients, and inadequate information from care providers. Nonetheless, information on the pharmacokinetics of drugs in the maternal system, the possible adverse effects to the infant, and how to minimize drug exposure to the infant is easily accessible to both patients and their surgeons. Positively informed providers and breastfeeding mothers who elect to undergo surgery, willing to take the proper steps and precautions, ensure healthy outcomes postoperatively.
Novel low density lipoprotein receptor variant linked to early onset acute myocardial infarction in a patient with familial hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Bangash Fatima A , Antbring Carl RH , Wald David S
Published: April 2014

A novel LDL-receptor gene variant was found responsible for previously undetected familial hypercholesterolaemia and acute myocardial infarction in a young man.
A short clinical review of vaccination against measles
Authors: Tannous Leen Khader , Barlow Gavin , Metcalfe Neil H
Published: April 2014

Major epidemics of measles are again in the news across the UK because of our failure to maintain population herd immunity. This situation has occurred primarily because of a loss of public confidence in the measles , mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which was never restored following the Wakefield debacle, and a lack of awareness of the potential morbidity and mortality associated with measles. This article provides healthcare professionals with a succinct overview of important clinical aspects of measles and also describes the history of measles vaccination in the UK. Restoration of herd immunity will require higher public acceptance of the MMR vaccine in the context of recognition that measles remains an important infection. While achievement of this appears to be challenging, recent UK-based research suggests that it can be ascertained.
The history of the case report: a selective review
Authors: Nissen Trygve , Wynn Rolf
Published: April 2014

The clinical case report is a popular genre in medical writing. While authors and editors have debated the justification for the clinical case report, few have attempted to examine the long history of this genre in medical literature. By reviewing selected literature and presenting and discussing excerpts of clinical case reports from Egyptian antiquity to the 20th century, we illustrate the presence of the genre in medical science and how its form developed. Central features of the clinical case report in different time periods are discussed, including its main components, structure, style and author presence.
Meningiomas occurring during long-term survival after treatment for childhood cancer
Authors: Sugden Elaine , Taylor Aliki , Pretorius Pieter , Kennedy Colin , Bhangoo Ranj
Published: April 2014

Childhood cancer is rare but improvements in treatment over the past five decades have resulted in a cohort of more than 30,000 long-term survivors of childhood cancer in the UK with more added annually. These long-term survivors are at risk of late effects of cancer treatment which replace original tumour recurrence as the leading cause of premature death. Second neoplasms are a particular risk and in the central nervous system meningiomas occur increasingly with increased radiation dose to central nervous system tissue and length of time after exposure, resulting in a 500-fold increase above that expected in the normal population by 40 years of follow up. This multidisciplinary author group and others met to discuss the issue. Our pooled information, and consensus that screening should only follow symptoms, was published online by the Royal College of Radiologists in 2013. We outline here the current knowledge and management of these neoplasms secondary to childhood cancer treatment.
How Emergent Roles and Structures Create Trust in Hastily Formed Interorganizational Teams
Authors: Zolin Roxanne , Gibbons Deborah E.
Published: April 2014

Many activities, from disaster response to project management, require cooperation among people from multiple organizations who initially lack interpersonal relationships and trust. On entering interorganizational settings, preexisting identities and expectations, along with emergent social roles and structures, may all influence trust between colleagues. To sort out these effects, we collected time-lagged data from three cohorts of military MBA students, representing 2,224 directed dyads, shortly after they entered graduate school. Dyads who shared organizational identity, boundary-spanning roles, and similar network positions (structural equivalence) were likely to have stronger professional ties and greater trust.
Alternate Histories
Authors: Muralidharan Sukumar
Published: May 2014

The past is never dead. It is not even past—William Faulkner

This article reviews recent literature on the accession of the princely state of Hyderabad to the Indian union in 1948, in the context of events that have raised the temperature of communal confrontation in the region. Scholarship on nation formation has drawn attention to the role that the act of remembering only to forget, plays in cementing a sense of nationalist solidarity. By that criterion, the accession of Hyderabad presents a case of historical record that may have been abridged and in part effaced, without the consent of its more substantial minority group. This allows for historical tensions to emerge anew as fault-lines where modern democratic competition could spill over into communal antagonism. Recent efforts to restore the historical record, one by way of a memoir and the other, a work of archival scholarship, assume great importance in this regard.