bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allograft Salvage Procedure in Multiple-Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Buda Roberto , Ruffilli Alberto , Di Caprio Francesco , Ferruzzi Alberto , Faldini Cesare , Cavallo Marco , Vannini Francesca , Giannini Sandro
Published: January 2013

Background:

Multiple-revision anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions represent a surgical challenge due to the presence of previous tunnels, hardware, injuries to the secondary stabilizers, and difficulties in retrieving autologous tendons. An anatomic ACL reconstruction may therefore result in a demanding surgery, thus requiring 2 stages.

Purpose:

To analyze the efficacy of an over-the-top ACL reconstruction technique plus extra-articular plasty using Achilles or tibialis posterior tendon allograft in restoring knee stability in patients with at least 2 failed previous ACL reconstructions, as well as to evaluate the factors able to affect the final outcome.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

From 2002 to 2008, 24 male athletes with a mean age of 30.8 years underwent surgery. Twenty patients had undergone 2, whereas 4 patients had undergone 3 previous reconstructions. The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and KT-2000 arthrometric evaluation were used to measure outcomes at a mean follow-up period of 3.3 years (range, 2-7).

Results:

The mean ± SD IKDC subjective score at follow-up was 81.3 ± 14.0. The IKDC objective score was an A or B in 20 patients (83%). Arthrometer side-to-side difference averaged 3.1 ± 1.1 mm. Range of motion was normal or nearly normal in 23 patients and abnormal in 1. Of the 20 good results, 17 patients resumed sports activity at the preinjury level.

Conclusion:

A 2-stage revision is an accepted option in cases of excessive tunnel enlargement and bone loss, especially on the femoral side, to achieve anatomic reconstruction. Nonanatomic over-the-top ACL reconstruction and lateral extra-articular plasty technique allow one to overcome difficult anatomic situations on the femoral side, permitting a 1-step surgery. The overall results obtained in this series are comparable with those of other ACL revision series. The higher rate of mild instability observed in our series may not be attributable to the surgical technique but rather to the chronic instability suffered by these knees before last revision.
Monitoring the toxic effects of Pb, Cd and Cu on hematological parameters of Wistar rats and potential protective role of lipoic acid and glutathione
Authors: Nikolić Ruzica , Krstić Nenad , Jovanović Jasmina , Kocić Gordana , Cvetković Tatjana P. , Radosavljević-Stevanović Nataša
Published: January 2013

Heavy metal pollution is a serious environmental and health problem. The negative effects of heavy metals that can enter human body can be reduced by the addition of some supplements. In this study, the effects of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) on the hematological parameters in Wistar rats in the absence and presence of lipoic acid and glutathione were analyzed. Pb, Cd and Cu intoxication significantly affected the hematological parameters of treated animals. The main effects in the case of Pb and Cd intoxication were decreased values of erythrocytes, hemoglobin and hematocrit (up to 30% and 20% for these two metals, respectively) compared with the control group. Cu intoxication caused decrease in hematocrit, thrombocytes, mean cell volume values (c.a. 15%) and slight decrease in the erythrocyte number, while the value of hemoglobin increased (c.a. 7%). The treatment with lipoic acid and glutathione reduced the toxic effects of these metals in all cases.
Antigenotoxic potencies of a lichen species, Evernia prunastri
Authors: Alpsoy Lokman , Orhan Furkan , Nardemir Gokce , Agar Guleray , Gulluce Medine , Aslan Ali
Published: January 2013

In this article, the genotoxic and antigenotoxic effects of methanol extract of Evernia prunastri (Huds.) Willd. (MEP) were studied using WP2, Ames (TA1535 and TA1537) and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) test systems. The results obtained from bacterial test systems demonstrated that MEP has strong antimutagenic potencies on TA1537 and WP2 strains. The highest inhibition rates for MEP on TA1537 and WP2 strains were 37.70% and 69.70%, respectively. According to the SCE test system, MEP reduced the genotoxic effects of aflatoxin. In order to clarify the mechanism underlying the antigenotoxic effects of MEP, the antioxidants were determined. Cotreatments of 5, 10 and 20 µg/mL concentrations of MEP with aflatoxin B1 decreased the frequencies of SCE and the malondialdehyde level and increased amount of superoxide dismutase, glutathione and glutathione peroxidase which were decreased by aflatoxin. The data obtained from this work have clearly shown that MEP has significant antigenotoxic effects which are thought to be partly due to the antioxidant activities and antioxidant inducing capability of MEP. This is the first report indicating the antigenotoxic activities of MEP against several mutagen agents such as N-methyl- N′-nitro- N-nitrosoguanidine, acridin and aflatoxin.
Promoting Mental Health Literacy Among Educators
Authors: Whitley Jessica , Smith J. David , Vaillancourt Tracy
Published: January 2013

Teachers and other school staff play key roles as partners in the prevention, identification, and intervention of mental health difficulties among children and youth. However, it is essential that teachers are equipped with sufficient mental health literacy to engender effective practices in these areas. This article reviews the literature related to mental health literacy with respect to the perceived preparedness of teachers as well as approaches that have been taken or are under way to improve literacy. A specific focus on bullying is also highlighted. Finally, suggestions emerging from current research as to the elements of effective approaches to teacher preparation are explored as well as recommendations for future research in the area.
Introduction to the Special Issue - Renewing a Vision
Authors: Leschied Alan D. W. , Flett Gordon L. , Saklofske Donald H.
Published: January 2013

This special issue of the Canadian Journal of School Psychology examines the vision and the capacity of schools to be strategically positioned as a hub for service delivery in meeting the mental health needs of Canada’s children and youth. Canada’s leading researchers and practitioners are represented in this contribution that addresses issues ranging from the extent of the need and the stigma of mental health challenges to the critical role of teachers in program and service implementation. It concludes with contributions of the current status of Canadian school-based mental health services along with a commentary on a vision for a holistic service delivery model for children and youth at risk. As the guest editors, we trust that this compilation will serve as a signpost for the future of school-based mental health service advocacy and development.
Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome Due to Choline Acetyltransferase Mutations in Infants
Authors: Dilena Robertino , Abicht Angela , Sergi Paola , Comi Giacomo P. , Fonzo Alessio Di , Chidini Giovanna , Natacci Federica , Barbieri Sergio , Lochmüller Hanns
Published: January 2013

Congenital myasthenic syndromes are inherited disorders caused by various defects in neuromuscular transmission. Although the typical presentation is fatigable weakness with prominent cranial involvement, neonates can lack these hallmark manifestations, and in those with choline acetyltransferase gene mutations, basal electrophysiological testing can yield negative findings. The authors report the case of a male infant presenting at birth with oculomotor and bulbofacial weakness, hypotonia, clubfoot, and severe respiratory insufficiency. Electromyography showed myogenic signs, and basal repetitive nerve stimulation yielded negative findings. Since age 6 months, the infant had progressively improved, acquiring autonomous respiration. Prolonged subtetanic repetitive nerve stimulation disclosed a marked decremental response compatible with suspected congenital myasthenic syndrome with episodic apnea. Genetic testing identified 2 novel choline acetyltransferase mutations (R470X, F580C). Keeping a high clinical suspicion of this rare condition and undertaking early comprehensive electrophysiological assessments including prolonged repetitive nerve stimulation (10 Hz for 5 minutes) can expedite the diagnosis.
Preparation and evaluation of bicomponent and homogeneous polyester silk small diameter arterial prostheses
Authors: Yang Xiaoyuan , Wang Lu , Guan Guoping , King Martin W , Li Yuling , Peng Lei , Guan Ying , Hu Xingyou
Published: January 2013

The development of a small diameter (≤5 mm) arterial prosthesis requires the appropriate selection of materials, structure and fabrication method so as to provide adequate mechanical properties, superior biocompatibility and precise control over the diameter. In this study, 100% polyester, 100% silk fibroin and a combination of both yarns were woven into seamless tubular prototype prostheses with different basic weaves. After degumming/scouring they met a target inner diameter of 3.9±0.3 mm which demonstrates that weaving is a precise way to manufacture small caliber arterial prostheses. In conclusion, the bicomponent polyester/silk woven samples had superior mechanical properties and improved cytocompatibility compared to commercial ePTFE devices.
The (Dubious?) Benefits of Second Chances in Batterer Intervention Programs
Authors: Scott Katreena , King Colin , McGinn Holly , Hosseini Narges
Published: January 2013

In batterer intervention programs, there are conflicting recommendations about best practices for responding to client dropout. Risk management philosophies emphasize the importance of swift and sure sanctions for failure to comply with program attendance requirements. In contrast, change theory emphasizes the importance of providing clients with multiple opportunities to engage in treatment. To clarify the implications of each of these philosophies, the current study examined rates of program dropout, reinstatement, and completion in a consecutive sample of 294 probation-mandated clients referred to a large batterer intervention program. Just over half (53.7%) of men completed intervention on their first attempt. Over the 2-year follow-up study period, 73 clients were reinstated once by the intervention program, 23 clients were reinstated twice, and 5 clients reinstated three (or more) times. Reinstated clients were, in general, more similar to men who failed to complete than those who completed on their first attempt. Although rates of dropout at each reentry point were quite high (56% to 80%), 32 of the 73 (43.7%) reinstated clients eventually completed. There were significant costs associated with providing clients with additional chances to complete the program, with successful reinstatement requiring an average of 7.55 phone calls to clients, 3.82 phone calls to referral agents, one letter, and 0.73 in-person meetings. Results are discussed in terms of practice and policy implications of risk management and change theory approaches to dropout.
Being Male or Living With a Female
Authors: Drakulich Kevin M. , Rose Kristin
Published: January 2013

While substantial research attention has been paid to the disproportionately high levels of fear of crime among women relative to men, less attention has been paid to the apparent mirror of this: that men have disproportionately more concern for female partners than women do for male partners. The work that does exist on fear for partners has focused exclusively on different-sex partnerships. The present article proposes and explores several explanations for sex differences in fear for partners among different-sex as well as same-sex partnerships. The analysis uses a sample of persons who live with a partner (155 in same-sex and 2,817 in different-sex partnerships) from a Seattle survey that includes measures of altruistic fear, as well as measures of personal, familial, sexual assault, and sexual identity bias victimizations. Results suggest that female partners inspire more fear regardless of the sex of the respondents, that sex differences persist even after perceptions of danger are accounted for, and that personal fears and fears for children are positively associated with fears for partners and do not explain sex differences in such fears. These results are more consistent with explanations rooted in gendered perceptions of vulnerability and the shadow of sexual assault than explanations rooted in the differential gender socialization of men as protectors or of a limited capacity for fear.
The Evolving Status of Non-Compete Agreements
Authors: Oswald R. Scott
Published: January 2013

Most states allow employers to restrict their employees from competing with them in the future. In Marsh v. Cook, Texas became the latest defector from a dwindling list of places where employees can transfer jobs without moving or changing careers, and without getting sued. Texas courts had steadfastly resisted non-compete agreements for decades, and its shift is the latest example in a national trend toward accepting more restrictions on competition. However, so long as dissenters remain, talented professionals will move to the states that do not permit broad restrictions. This policy outcome undermines why non-competes are accepted in the first place: promoting the state’s economy.
Pain in People With Alzheimer Disease
Authors: Monroe Todd B. , Gore John C. , Chen Li Min , Mion Lorraine C. , Cowan Ronald L.
Published: January 2013

Pain management in people with dementia is a critical problem. Recently, psychophysical and neuroimaging techniques have been used to extend our understanding of pain processing in the brain as well as to identify structural and functional changes in Alzheimer disease (AD). But interpreting the complex relationship between AD pathology, brain activation, and pain reports is challenging. This review proposes a conceptual framework for designing and interpreting psychophysical and neuroimaging studies of pain processing in people with AD. Previous human studies describe the lateral (sensory) and medial (affective) pain networks. Although the majority of the literature on pain supports the lateral and medial networks, some evidence supports an additional rostral pain network, which is believed to function in the production of pain behaviors. The sensory perception of pain as assessed through verbal report and behavioral display may be altered in AD. In addition, neural circuits mediating pain perception and behavioral expression may be hyperactive or underactive, depending on the brain region involved, stage of the disease, and type of pain (acute experimental stimuli or chronic medical conditions). People with worsening AD may therefore experience pain but be unable to indicate pain through verbal or behavioral reports, leaving them at great risk of experiencing untreated pain. Psychophysical (verbal or behavioral) and neurophysiological (brain activation) approaches can potentially address gaps in our knowledge of pain processing in AD by revealing the relationship between neural processes and verbal and behavioral outcomes in the presence of acute or chronic pain.
Can Protégés be Successfully Socialized Without Socialized Mentors?
Authors: Yang Chun-Chi , Hu Changya , Baranik Lisa E. , Lin Chia-Yu
Published: January 2013

Using social cognitive career theory as a theoretical foundation, we examined the relationship between mentor and protégé organizational socialization as well as the mediating role of career, psychosocial, and role-modeling support received by protégés. We also examined the moderating role of mentorship formality in the relationship between mentor socialization and the receipt of career, psychosocial, and role-modeling support. Using survey data collected from 209 ongoing mentoring dyads from five banks in Taiwan, regression results indicated that mentor socialization was positively related to career functions and role modeling that protégés received, as well as protégé socialization. Career support partially mediated the relationship between mentor socialization and protégé socialization. Mentorship formality moderated the relationship between mentor socialization and psychosocial support, suggesting that the positive relationship between mentor socialization and psychosocial functions only bears out in informal mentoring relationships. We offer a discussion of the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Competencies for the Contemporary Career
Authors: Akkermans Jos , Brenninkmeijer Veerle , Huibers Marthe , Blonk Roland W. B.
Published: January 2013

A new and promising area of research has recently emerged in the field of career development: career competencies. The present article provides a framework of career competencies that integrates several perspectives from the literature. The framework distinguishes between reflective, communicative, and behavioral career competencies. Six career competencies are discerned: reflection on motivation, reflection on qualities, networking, self-profiling, work exploration, and career control. Based on this framework, we developed the Career Competencies Questionnaire (CCQ) and preliminarily validated it in two samples of young employees between 16 and 30 years of age. The results provided initial support for the content, factorial, discriminant, and incremental validity of the CCQ. We hope to stimulate further discussion, research, and development of interventions in the area of career development. Implications for theory and practice are also discussed.
Testing the Validity of the Emotional and Personality-Related Career Decision-Making Difficulties Questionnaire in Turkish Culture
Authors: Oztemel Kemal
Published: January 2013

The goal of this study was to examine the emotional and personality-related career decision-making difficulties of high school students in Turkish culture, using the model proposed by Saka and Gati. A sample of 523 high school students filled out the Turkish version of the Emotional and Personality-Related Aspects of Career Decision-Making Difficulties (EPCD) questionnaire. Cluster and confirmatory factor analyses supported the ternary classification system of the emotional and personality-related career decision-making difficulties model and questionnaire, thus providing evidence for the cross-cultural validity of the proposed model. Furthermore, the results demonstrated significant associations between making a decision and the emotional and personality career difficulties: students who were decided reported lower emotional and personality-related career difficulties than did undecided students. Generally, there were no differences in EPCD scores between boys and girls, and no effect of type of school and grade was observed.
A Cross-Sectional Study of Career Aspirations in Thai Children in an International School in Bangkok
Authors: McDevitt Teresa M. , Hess Chelsie A. , Leesatayakun Mantmart , Sheehan Eugene P. , Kaufeld Kimberly A.
Published: January 2013

This investigation employed exploratory methods to examine career aspirations in 141 students in Grades 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12 from an international school in Bangkok. Students specified the jobs that they were most likely to pursue as adults, rated the importance of potential influences in making career decisions, and drew a picture of themselves in their future occupations. Students aspired to a range of careers and viewed their own abilities and interests as being of primary importance in choosing a career track. Also important were advice from parents, gender issues, and factors related to globalization, including their proficiency with second languages, experiences with other cultures, and interests in traveling. Students’ drawings revealed knowledge about desired job responsibilities. Developmental differences were present in several features of the data, including increasing attention to advanced technology and a progressively differentiated understanding of job duties.
Weight Gain Among Elderly Women as Risk Factor for Disability
Authors: Corona Ligiana Pires , Nunes Daniella Pires , Alexandre Tiago da Silva , Ferreira Santos Jair Lício , Oliveira Duarte Yeda Aparecida de , Lebrão Maria Lúcia
Published: January 2013

Objective: To examine the association between weight change and the incidence of disability in activities of daily living (ADL) among elderly women. Method: In 2006, 227 women aged ≥75 years and independent in ADL were selected from SABE Study (Health, Well-being, and Aging) in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The dependent variable was the report of difficulty on ≥1 ADL in 2009. Differences in weight were calculated between baseline and second interview, and converted to percentage change in relation to initial weight. A change (gain or loss) ≥5% was considered significant. A logistic regression analysis was performed including sociodemographic and health-related variables. Results: After adjusting, weight gain remained associated to disability (OR = 2.42; p = .027), whereas weigh loss lost significance (OR = 1.66; p = .384). Discussion: Weight loss is generally considered more worrisome than weight gain in elderly. However, weight loss alone was not a risk factor for disability in our study.
Matching suitability analysis for geomagnetic aided navigation based on an intelligent classification method
Authors: Wang Peng , Hu Xiaoping , Wu Meiping
Published: January 2013

The problem of matching suitability for geomagnetic aided navigation is investigated from the viewpoint of pattern recognition in this article. In order to improve the classification accuracy of candidate matching areas, an intelligent classification method based on genetic algorithm and support vector machine is proposed. Firstly, the geomagnetic datasets and the factors influencing the classification performance of support vector machine are studied. Then support vector machine is employed as the classifier, and genetic algorithm is utilized for feature selection and support vector machine parameters optimization to improve the classification performance. Afterwards the multi-class support vector machine classifiers based on the one-against-one strategy are constructed for analyzing matching suitability. Experimental results show that the proposed method can greatly improve the classification accuracy of candidate matching areas, and moreover, the conclusions of this article can provide beneficial guidance for geomagnetic matching and route planning.
Arts-led regeneration in the UK: The rhetoric and the evidence on urban social inclusion
Authors: Lees Loretta , Melhuish Clare
Published: January 2013

This paper reviews the rhetoric of arts-led regeneration in the UK and reflects on its evidence base. We show how the notion of arts-led regeneration as a tool to combat social exclusion in our inner cities developed momentum for policy makers under a New Labour government, culminating in its status as a quasi-social fact. We critique this quasi-social fact and underline its limited and problematic evidence base. We offer suggestions for constructing a new and more robust evidence base.
Topsport Talent Schools in the Netherlands: A retrospective analysis of the effect on performance in sport and education
Authors: van Rens Fleur ECA , Elling Agnes , Reijgersberg Niels
Published: January 2013

In order to help talented athletes to attain the highest possible level in both their sport and education, Topsport Talent Schools (TTS) were founded in the Netherlands in 1991. This research aims to investigate the effect of attending a TTS on the sport and education performance levels of talented athletes. A retrospective study was conducted amongst 242 (former) talented athletes from six sport federations. Results indicate that attending a TTS did not influence the current and highest attained sport performance levels of talented athletes (at both junior and senior level). Neither were talents who had attended a TTS more satisfied about the combination of school and sport, nor were they more motivated for their sport. Furthermore, results indicated that talents who had attended TTS were less motivated to do well in school; also they attained lower educational levels in both their secondary school and further education.
Why infer? The use and misuse of population data in sport research
Authors: Gibbs Benjamin G , Shafer Kevin , Dufur Mikaela J
Published: January 2013

While the use of inferential statistics is a nearly universal practice in the social sciences, there are instances where its application is unnecessary or, worse, misleading. This is true for most research on the Relative Age Effect (RAE) in sports. Given the limited amount of data needed to examine RAE (birth dates) and the availability of complete team rosters, RAE researchers are in a unique position— inference is not needed when interpreting findings because the data is from a population. We reveal, over the course of five years, the misapplication of inferential statistics using census data in 10 of 13 RAE studies across 12 sports journals. Thus, perhaps by inertia, the majority of RAE researchers use inferential statistics with their census data, misusing analytic techniques and, in some cases, undervaluing meaningful patterns and trends.
Plotting a Paralympic field: An elite disability sport competition viewed through Bourdieu’s sociological lens
Authors: Purdue David EJ , Howe P David
Published: January 2013

In this paper components of Bourdieu’s sociological theory will be utilized to systematically outline key constituents, and the interrelated power struggles, which shape Paralympic sport. The premier Paralympic sport competition is arguably the summer Paralympic Games, a quadrennial multi-sport competition for elite athletes with specific impairments, governed by the International Paralympic Committee. This paper argues that Paralympic sport is significantly influenced, shaped and developed according to the differential resources and contestation for power between individuals and organizations that possess an interest in deriving benefit from the Paralympic Games. Firstly, this article outlines the historical development of Paralympic sport. Relevant aspects of Bourdieu’s sociological theory are then identified and utilized to generate a fresh sociologically infused interpretation of the current key constituents who together form a Paralympic field. The intention is to provide a more systematic overview of Paralympic relations, while also highlighting potential avenues for future social research.
Systemic Bovine herpesvirus 1 infections in neonatal dairy calves
Authors: Moeller Robert B. , Adaska John , Reynolds Jim , Blanchard Patricia C.
Published: January 2013

During a 6-year period, 62 out of 2,980 calves examined (2.08%) between 1–30 days of age had lesions consistent with Bovine herpesvirus 1 infection. The mean and median age of affected calves was 14 days of age. Most cases of infection were in calves 12 and 15 days of age, with 34 calves (54.8%) affected; 14 calves (22.6%) were between 16–21 days of age; 11 calves (17.8%) were between 7–11 days of age; and 3 calves (4.8%) were between 22–30 days of age. In 29 of the calves, the adrenal gland was the only organ affected. In 25 calves, the adrenal gland and at least 1 other tissue had lesions consistent with herpes viral infection. Five animals had no adrenal lesions but had 1 or more additional tissue with lesions consistent with herpesvirus. Three animals had no adrenal gland present for examination but had lesions in other tissues. Organs and number of animals affected by Bovine herpesvirus 1 infection were adrenal gland (54), liver (18), lungs (15), kidney (8), small intestines (7), large intestines (7), rumen/omasum (7), trachea/larynx (3), abomasum (2), heart (1), esophagus (1), thymus (1), and lymph node (1).
Piezoelectric tube with helical electrodes: Numerical analysis of actuator and energy harvesting devices
Authors: Agbossou Amen , Pan Cheng Liang , Zhang Qi , Feng Zhihua , Badel Adrien , Formosa Fabien
Published: January 2013

This article presents a finite element analysis of a polarized piezoelectric tube driven by helical electrodes. It is thanks to a helical coordinate meshing and local coordinate system association with each element that the problem of piezoelectric coupling has been studied. The numerical results agree well with the experimental data without the need of compensation factors as in previous works. The developed model was used to determine the electromechanical coupling coefficients of the tubes in axial and torsional modes. The electromechanical coupling coefficient depends on the helical angle of the electrode. In the axial mode, electromechanical coupling coefficient goes through a maximum value of 25% when the helical angle of the electrode is close to 30°, while in the torsional mode, the maximum value of electromechanical coupling coefficient was reached at a helical angle near 60°. The analysis investigates the tube size effects and shows the potential uses of piezoelectric tubes as an actuator or energy harvesting device. The presented model could be used to analyze the electric fields in the tube during the polarization process or to analyze the mechanical stress (without any limitation due to Saint-Venant’s principle) imposed by the simplified analytical approaches available in the literature. The developed approach can also be used for theoretical analysis of the helical/spiral piezoelectric element.
Promoting Volunteer Capacity in Hospice Palliative Care
Authors: Pesut Barbara , Hooper Brenda , Lehbauer Suzanne , Dalhuisen Miranda
Published: January 2013

Hospice volunteers play an essential role in the primary care network for end of life. The purpose of this review was to examine the evidence on hospice volunteers published between 2002 and July 2012. An electronic search of PubMed, CINAHL and PsychINFO using controlled vocabulary, and a reference scan, yielded 54 studies focusing on hospice volunteers. Studies were primarily descriptive using quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods. Findings from studies were grouped thematically into descriptions of the work of hospice volunteers; recruitment, preparation and retention of hospice volunteers; and perspectives and outcomes of the volunteer role. A substantial body of evidence exists describing the roles, stresses and rewards of hospice volunteering. Less is known about how to adequately recruit, prepare and retain volunteers. A small but intriguing body of evidence exists around volunteers' contributions to family satisfaction and patient longevity. Although the evidence around hospice volunteers continues to grow, there is an urgent need for further research. Findings indicate that volunteers make important contributions to high quality end of life care. However, more focused research attention is required to better understand how to maximize this contribution while providing better support for volunteers.
Validation of the Phase II Feasibility Study in a Palliative Care Setting
Authors: Lee Cindy , Vather Ryash , O’Callaghan Anne , Robinson Jackie , McLeod Briar , Findlay Michael , Bissett Ian
Published: January 2013

Background:

Malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) is common in patients with advanced cancer.

Aim:

To perform a phase II study to assess the feasibility of conducting a phase III trial investigating the therapeutic value of gastrografin in MBO.

Methods:

Randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled feasibility study. Participants received 100 mL of either gastrografin or placebo.

Results:

Over 8 months, 57 patients were screened and 9 enrolled (15.8% recruitment rate). Of the 9 enrolled, 4 received gastrografin (with 2 completing assessment) and 5 received placebo (with 4 completing assessment).

Conclusions:

It is not feasible to conduct a phase III trial using the same study protocol. This study validates the use of the phase II feasibility study to assess protocol viability in a palliative population prior to embarking on a larger trial.
Rationing of Nursing Care Within Professional Environmental Constraints
Authors: Papastavrou Evridiki , Andreou Panayiota , Tsangari Haritini , Schubert Maria , De Geest Sabina
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine rationing of nursing care and the possible relationship between nurses’ perceptions of their professional practice environment and care rationing. A total of 393 nurses from medical and surgical units participated in the study. Data were collected using the Basel Extent of Rationing of Nursing Care (BERNCA) instrument and the Revised Professional Practice Environment (RPPE) Scale. The highest level of rationing was reported for “reviewing of patient documentation” ( M = 1.15, SD = 0.94; 31.2% sometimes or often) followed by “oral and dental hygiene” ( M = 1.06, SD = 0.94; 31.5% sometimes or often) and “coping with the delayed response of physicians” ( M = 1.04, SD = 0.96; 30% sometimes or often). Regression analyses showed that teamwork, leadership and autonomy, and communication about patients accounted in total 18.4% of the variance in rationing. In regard to application, the association between the practice environment and rationing suggests improvements in certain aspects that could minimize rationing.
Provider Staffing Effect on a Decision Aid Intervention
Authors: Ersek Mary , Sefcik Justine S. , Lin Feng-Chang , Lee Tae Joon , Gilliam Robin , Hanson Laura C.
Published: January 2013

This study examined the association between Nurse Practitioner (NP) and Physician Assistant (PA) staffing in nursing homes and the effect of a decision aid regarding feeding options in dementia on the frequency of surrogate-provider discussions and on surrogates’ decisional conflict. We compared these outcomes for facilities that had no NPs/PAs, part-time-only NP/PA staffing, and full-time NP/PA staffing. The sample included 256 surrogate decision makers from 24 nursing homes. The decision aid was associated with significant increases in discussion rates in facilities with part-time or no NP/PA staffing (26% vs. 51%, p < .001, and 13% vs. 41%, p < .001, respectively) and decreases in decisional conflict scores (−0.08 vs. −0.047, p = .008, and −0.30 vs. −0.68, p = .014, respectively). Sites with full-time NP/PA staffing had high baseline rates of discussions (41%). These findings suggest that the decision aid and full-time NP/PA staffing can enhance surrogate decision making in nursing homes.
Career Barriers and Coping Efficacy Among Native American Students
Authors: Thompson Mindi N.
Published: January 2013

This study examined the relationship between career barriers (low perceived social status [PSS], experiences with personal and systemic classism, and general ethnic discrimination) and college outcome expectations (COEs) among a sample of 121 Native American postsecondary students. Self-efficacy for coping with career barriers was tested as a mediator of these relationships. Results indicated that lower PSS and more experiences with both personal and systemic classism related to lower COEs, and that coping efficacy for career barriers fully mediated these relationships. Contrary to expectations, experiences with ethnic discrimination was unrelated to COEs. Implications for future research and career counseling with Native American students are discussed.
Career Assessment of Ultraorthodox Jewish Men
Authors: Pirutinsky Steven
Published: January 2013

Ultraorthodox men spend years studying religion and delay entry into the workforce until their early 30s. They then face barriers such as insufficient education and work experience, religious restrictions, and a lack of career information and self-knowledge. Although there is considerable interest in assessment, no measure has been validated within this population. The current research assessed the reliability and validity of the Strong Interest Inventory (SII), as well as the underlying circumplex model of interests. The degree of interest in specific careers was also explored. Participants included 192 ultraorthodox Jewish men transitioning from religious study to secular employment, who completed the SII. Results indicated that participants displayed an overall negative response bias. The vast majority of scales were reliable and valid, and the circumplex model fit the data. Interests differed from norms and a few scales functioned poorly. Theoretical and interpretative implications are discussed.
An Examination of the Structure of the Career Decision Self-Efficacy Scale (Short Form) Among Italian High School Students
Authors: Presti Alessandro Lo , Pace Francesco , Mondo Marina , Nota Laura , Casarubia Provvidenza , Ferrari Lea , Betz Nancy E.
Published: January 2013

This study aims to evaluate the factor structure of Career Decision Self-Efficacy scale-short form in a sample of Italian high school adolescents. confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test the degree to which a one-factor structure and a five-factor structure provided the best fit. In view of available research the five-factor structure was expected to provide the best fit. Moreover, factorial invariance in males and females was tested. It was expected to be invariant across groups. As expected the five-factor structure showed a better fit than the one-factor model and the factorial invariance resulted invariant across boys and girls.
Lipid-Lowering Pharmacotherapy in Central and Eastern European Countries in Cardiovascular Prevention
Authors: Tomasik Tomasz , Windak Adam , Seifert Bohumil , Kersnik Janko , Kijowska Violetta , Dubas Katarzyna
Published: January 2013

Aims:

The aims of this study were (1) to explore physicians’ self-reported treatment of patients with dyslipidemia and (2) to identify intercountry differences and associations between physicians’ characteristics and treatment patterns.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was performed in primary health care in 9 Central and Eastern European countries. An anonymous questionnaire, which included questions devoted to dyslipidemia treatment, was distributed.

Results:

A total of 3000 physicians were randomly chosen and 867 responded. The mean percentage of physicians in all countries who reported regular use of statins in primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) was 86.4 (range between 91.0% of Polish physicians and 75.7% of Czech physicians; P < .01). In secondary prevention, the mean percentage was only a little higher, 89.9. The use of fibrates for primary prevention was reported by 40.3% of the respondents from Bulgaria and by 2% of the respondents from Estonia ( P < .01). Also, significant differences between countries were found in the use of fibrates and combination therapy in secondary prevention. Atorvastatin and simvastatin were the most prescribed drugs in everyday practice (the mean percentage of physicians in all countries was 72.5% and 68.0%, respectively). More than three-fourth of the respondents reported prescribing lifelong treatment with statins. Inconsistent associations were found between the characteristics of physicians and their treatment patterns.

Conclusions:

There are significant variations in the use of lipid-lowering drugs in Central and Eastern European countries; however, statin monotherapy predominates. Some physicians’ decisions are made without supporting evidence from clinical trials. There is still scope to improve preventive care of CVD.
Romiplostim resistance in secondary failure of platelet recovery
Authors: DeRemer David L , Katsanevas Katerina , Bradley Amber , Awan Farrukh T
Published: January 2013

Romiplostim, a thrombopoietin mimetic, is FDA approved for the treatment of thrombocytopenia in patients with refractory immune thrombocytopenia. Given the success of thrombopoietin agonists in the treatment of immune thrombocytopenia, data in other clinical settings are emerging. In the bone marrow transplant setting, secondary failure of platelet recovery and persistent thrombocytopenia are associated with increased mortality. In this case, romiplostim was attempted in a chronic lymphocytic leukemia patient who underwent a matched, unrelated donor, non-myeloablative stem cell transplant. This patient experienced profound thrombocytopenia despite dose escalation. Anti-thrombopoietin or anti-romiplostim antibodies were not detected by specific assays. Furthermore, the patient remains in disease remission with full chimerism. This case demonstrates that heavily pre-treated patients with limited bone marrow reserve may not respond to thrombopoietin agonists.
Reviewing the roots of continuum formulations in molecular systems. Part I: Particle dynamics, statistical physics, mass and linear momentum balance equations
Authors: Davydov Denis , Steinmann Paul
Published: January 2013

The link between atomistic quantities and continuum fields has been the subject of research for at least half a century. Nevertheless, there are still many open questions and misleading discussions in the literature. Therefore, based on the fundamental principles of classical mechanics and statistical physics we construct the basic framework for the link between the atomistic and continuum worlds. In doing so, considerable attention is paid to the central force decomposition and multi-body potentials, balance of angular momentum for the system of particles and its relationship to the extended third Newton axiom and the difference between the theorem of change of kinetic energy and the energy balance law. A number of general theorems related to the convolution properties of statistically averaged quantities, as well as their rates are also proven. These theorems make the derivation of balance equations far simpler when compared to the approaches used by others. Such theorems also make the link between space–time averaging and space–probability averaging more transparent.

In this contribution the balance laws of mass and linear momentum are derived. The remaining balance laws of angular momentum and energy as well as the particular forms of fluxes, such as the stress, are discussed in the follow-up contributions of this series.
Effects of transglutaminase on sorption, mechanical and moisture-related properties of gelatin films
Authors: Jiang Y , Tang CH
Published: January 2013

Biodegradable and edible protein films have received considerable research interest due to the increase in environment protection consciousness. However, protein films always have poor mechanical properties and water-resistant ability compared with synthetic films. Thus, the effects of transglutaminase on sorption characteristics including adsorption kinetics and sorption isotherm, mechanical properties, moisture content, total soluble matter and surface hydrophobicity (S0) of gelatin films were analyzed in this article. Relative humidity and plasticizer content significantly affected the moisture equilibration time. The lower the relative humidity and plasticizer content, the shorter the moisture equilibration time. Transglutaminase treatment significantly decreased moisture adsorption rate and balance moisture content of gelatin films. The sorption isotherm data were mathematically fitted to the GAB model. Transglutaminase treatment increased the tensile strength value and the mean contact angle by 8.4–25.6% and 2.1–2.3°, respectively; while decreasing the moisture content value by 2.6–9%. These results show that transglutaminase treatment could be an effective and practical method to modify moisture sorption characteristics, moisture content and surface hydrophobicity of gelatin films, which suggests that the water-barrier ability of gelatin films can be improved by transglutaminase treatment.
Properties of raw meat and meat curry from spent goat in relation with post-mortem handling conditions
Authors: Narayan Raj , Mendiratta SK , Mane BG
Published: January 2013

The properties of raw meat and meat curry from spent goat meat in relation with post-mortem handling conditions were evaluated. The conditions evaluated were: cooking of meat within 1–2 h post-slaughter (condition 1); deboning meat storage at 25 ± 2 °C for 5–6 h and cooking (condition 2); post-slaughter storage of carcass at room temperature for 5–6 h, then deboning followed by storage of meat at refrigeration temperature for 5–6 h and cooking (condition 3); deboning and storage of meat at 25 ± 2 °C for 10–12 h and cooking (condition 4). Significant difference was observed in pH values in condition 1 ( p < 0.01) and moisture content ( p < 0.05) of raw meat as compared to the conditions 2, 3 and 4. However, the moisture content of cooked meat was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for conditions 1 and 2 as compared to the conditions 3 and 4. Significant differences were also observed in muscle fiber diameter values of different conditions, that is, the mean values were significantly higher ( p < 0.05) for conditions 2 and 4 and significantly lower for condition 1. The mean water holding capacity and cooking yield values were highest in condition 1, followed by conditions 2, 3 and 4. The significant differences was also observed in shear force value of cooked meat chunks, that is, the mean value was significantly higher ( p < 0.01) for condition 2 and significantly lower for condition 1. Sensory scores were significantly higher in condition 1 and significantly lower in condition 2. However, sensory scores for condition 4 were almost similar to the condition 1.
Preventing Patient Falls
Authors: Rowe Rev. Jimmy
Published: January 2013

Patients are at a higher risk of falling in the hospital than at home because of their acute illness, medications, other treatments, or unfamiliarity with the hospital environment. Despite numerous efforts, inpatient falls remain a leading adverse event in hospitals and other inpatient settings, resulting in loss of function, death, and higher health costs. This article explores the factors in hospital settings that can reduce and prevent inpatient falls.
Methodology for Integrating Adaptation to Climate Change Into the Transportation Planning Process
Authors: Oswald Michelle Renee , McNeil Sue
Published: January 2013

Strong scientific evidence supports the potential for serious global impacts due to climate change. While mitigation efforts are essential to slowing the threat of climate change, adaptation practices to build resilience to and protection from environmental impacts should be accelerated. This paper presents a methodology to integrate adaptation efforts into the long range transportation planning (LRTP) process, and describes a tool, Climate Change Adaptation Tool for Transportation (CCATT) to assist planners. Using a decision theoretic approach that recognizes uncertainty, climate change scenarios are evaluated based on the LRTP timeline. Since climate change impacts vary geographically, the methodology is intended to be repeatable, relevant, and regionally applicable. A case study is developed for the Mid-Atlantic region based on a Metropolitan Planning Organization in northern Delaware. The case study results reveal the effectiveness of the methodology to a real world application and the need for transportation adaptation in response to climate change.