bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe Aplastic Anemia following Acute Hepatitis from Toxic Liver Injury: Literature Review and Case Report of a Successful Outcome
Authors: Qureshi Kamran , Sarwar Usman , Khallafi Hicham
Published: December 2014

Hepatitis associated aplastic anemia (HAAA) is a rare syndrome in which severe aplastic anemia (SAA) complicates the recovery of acute hepatitis (AH). HAAA is described to occur with AH caused by viral infections and also with idiopathic cases of AH and no clear etiology of liver injury. Clinically, AH can be mild to fulminant and transient to persistent and precedes the onset SAA. It is assumed that immunologic dysregulation following AH leads to the development of SAA. Several observations have been made to elucidate the immune mediated injury mechanisms, ensuing from liver injury and progressing to trigger bone marrow failure with the involvement of activated lymphocytes and severe T-cell imbalance. HAAA has a very poor outcome and often requires bone marrow transplant (BMT). The findings of immune related myeloid injury implied the use of immunosuppressive therapy (IST) and led to improved survival from HAAA. We report a case of young male who presented with AH resulting from the intake of muscle building protein supplements and anabolic steroids. The liver injury slowly resolved with supportive care and after 4 months of attack of AH, he developed SAA. He was treated with IST with successful outcome without the need for a BMT.
Synthesis and Characterization of Flower‐Like Bundles of ZnO Nanosheets by a Surfactant‐Free Hydrothermal Process
Authors: Qiu Jijun , Weng Binbin , Zhao Lihua , Chang Caleb , Shi Zhisheng , Li Xiaomin , Kim Hyung-Kook , Hwang Yoon-Hwae
Published: December 2014

Flower‐like bundles of ZnO nanosheets have been prepared by using preheating hydrothermal process without any surfactants. The flower‐like bundles consist of many thin and uniform hexagonal‐structured ZnO nanosheets, with a thickness of 50 nm. The selected area electronic diffraction (SAED) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) images indicate that the ZnO nanosheets are single crystal in nature. The growth mechanism of the flower‐like bundles of ZnO nanosheets is discussed based on the morphology evolution with growth times and reaction conditions. It is believed that the formation of flower‐like bundles of ZnO nanosheets is related to the shielding effect of OH− ions and the self‐assembly process, which is dominated by a preheating time. Room temperature photoluminescence spectra results show that the annealing atmosphere strongly affects the visible emission band, which is sensitive to intrinsic and surface defects, especially oxygen interstitials, in flower‐like bundles of ZnO nanosheets.
Metastatic Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Patient with Crohn’s Disease Treated with Azathioprine and Infliximab: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Fortinsky Kyle J. , Alali Ali , Jeejeebhoy Khursheed , Fischer Sandra , Sherman Morris , Fung Scott
Published: December 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma most commonly occurs in patients with underlying liver disease or cirrhosis. We describe a case of hepatocellular carcinoma in a 34-year-old man with Crohn’s disease treated with azathioprine and infliximab. The patient had no history of liver disease and a complete autoimmune and viral workup was unremarkable. Unfortunately, the patient developed widespread metastatic disease and passed away 5 months after his initial diagnosis. The mechanism of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients’ with Crohn’s disease is poorly understood and may include both autoimmunity and treatment-related complications. Previous case reports suggest the possibility of a concerning association between azathioprine therapy and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with Crohn’s disease. Clinicians may consider early imaging in patients with Crohn’s disease presenting with concerning symptomatology or abnormal liver enzymes, especially in those being treated with azathioprine alone or in combination with infliximab. Future research may help to uncover additional risk factors for this exceedingly rare diagnosis in this patient population.
Effect of Surface Microstructures on Hydrophobicity and Barrier Property of Anticorrosive Coatings Prepared by Soft Lithography
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Li Haiyang , Chen Xiaoli , Qian Hongchang , Li Xiaogang
Published: December 2014

Enhancing the hydrophobicity of organic coatings retards their interaction with water and often leads to better protectiveness over metal corrosion. In this study, a soft lithography method was used to prepare epoxy coatings which showed surface microstructures in high replication to sandpapers. The effect of microstructures on coating’s hydrophobicity and barrier property was investigated. Compared to flat coatings, the microstructured coatings showed much higher water contact angles, which further increased with finer sandpapers. Determined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), the flat coating exhibited a higher anticorrosive performance than the microstructured coatings. With the use of finer sandpaper, the groove size of the corresponding microstructured coating was reduced. And a lower anticorrosive performance was observed since more defects might be formed in a given area of coating during the imprinting process. As the groove size of the coatings was further decreased to 5.7 µm, the microstructures became too small for water to easily penetrate through. Therefore, trapped air acted as an additional barrier and contributed to an increased anticorrosive performance compared to other microstructured coatings.
The Translated Dowling Polynomials and Numbers
Authors: Mangontarum Mahid M. , Macodi-Ringia Amila P. , Abdulcarim Normalah S.
Published: December 2014

More properties for the translated Whitney numbers of the second kind such as horizontal generating function, explicit formula, and exponential generating function are proposed. Using the translated Whitney numbers of the second kind, we will define the translated Dowling polynomials and numbers. Basic properties such as exponential generating functions and explicit formula for the translated Dowling polynomials and numbers are obtained. Convexity, integral representation, and other interesting identities are also investigated and presented. We show that the properties obtained are generalizations of some of the known results involving the classical Bell polynomials and numbers. Lastly, we established the Hankel transform of the translated Dowling numbers.
Relationship between Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Metabolic Parameters in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Boyuk Banu , Degirmencioglu Serife , Atalay Hande , Guzel Savas , Acar Ayse , Celebi Aslan , Ekizoglu Ismail , Simsek Caglar
Published: December 2014

Background and Aim. Studies have suggested that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a role in glucose and lipid metabolism and inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum BDNF levels and various metabolic parameters and inflammatory markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Materials and Methods. The study included 88 T2DM patients and 33 healthy controls. Fasting blood samples were obtained from the patients and the control group. The serum levels of BDNF were measured with an ELISA kit. The current paper introduces a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) generalization curve to identify cut-off for the BDNF values in type 2 diabetes patients.Results. The serum levels of BDNF were significantly higher in T2DM patients than in the healthy controls (206.81 ± 107.32 pg/mL versus 130.84 ± 59.81 pg/mL;P<0.001). They showed a positive correlation with the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (r=0.28;P<0.05), the triglyceride level (r=0.265;P<0.05), and white blood cell (WBC) count (r=0.35;P<0.001). In logistic regression analysis, age (P<0.05), body mass index (BMI) (P<0.05), C-reactive protein (CRP) (P<0.05), and BDNF (P<0.01) were independently associated with T2DM. In ROC curve analysis, BDNF cut-off was 137.Conclusion. The serum BDNF level was higher in patients with T2DM. The BDNF had a cut-off value of 137. The findings suggest that BDNF may contribute to glucose and lipid metabolism and inflammation.
Mechanisms of Overcoming Intrinsic Resistance to Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma through the Redox Modulation
Authors: Ju Huai-Qiang , Gocho Takeshi , Aguilar Mitzi , Wu Min , Zhuang Zhuo-Nan , Fu Jie , Yanaga Katsuhiko , Huang Peng , Chiao Paul J.
Published: December 2014

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) frequently develops therapeutic resistances, which can be divided into extrinsic and intrinsic resistance. The extrinsic resistance that arises from the surrounding dense tumor stroma is much better understood. However, the mechanisms of intrinsic resistance are not well understood. Here, we report that reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by gemcitabine treatment, a newly discovered cytotoxic activity, served as a probe in our study to reveal the mechanisms of the intrinsic therapeutic resistance. Our results showed that gemcitabine-induced ROS is generated by NOX and through the increase of p22−phox expression via NF-κB activation. As a feedback mechanism, nuclear translocation of Nrf2 stimulated the transcription of cytoprotective antioxidant genes, especially genes encoding enzymes that catalyze glutathione (GSH) production to reduce elevated ROS as an intrinsic resistance countermeasure. RNAi-mediated depletion of Nrf2 or addition of β-phenylethyl isothiocyanate inhibited the ROS detoxification process by reducing GSH levels, which, in turn, increased the efficacy of gemcitabine in vitro and in vivo. Thus, our study suggests that a redox-mediated pathway contributes to the intrinsic resistance of PDAC to gemcitabine and provides a basis for developing strategies to preferentially kill PDAC cells through ROS-mediated mechanism. The combination of gemcitabine and PEITC has a selective cytotoxic effect against pancreatic cancer cells in vivo and could thus prove valuable as a cancer treatment. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(3); 788–98. ©2014 AACR.
New Developments in the Biodemography of Aging and Longevity
Authors: Gavrilov Leonid A. , Gavrilova Natalia S.
Published: December 2014

Biodemography is a promising scientific approach based on using demographic data and methods for getting insights into biological mechanisms of observed processes. Recently, new important developments have happened in biodemographic studies of aging and longevity that call into question conventional aging theories and open up novel research directions. Recent studies found that the exponential increase of the mortality risk with age (the famous Gompertz law) continues even at extreme old ages in humans, rats, and mice, thus challenging traditional views about old-age mortality deceleration, mortality leveling-off, and late-life mortality plateaus. This new finding represents a challenge to many aging theories, including the evolutionary theory that explains senescence by a declining force of natural selection with age. Innovative ideas are needed to explain why exactly the same exponential pattern of mortality growth is observed not only at reproductive ages, but also at very-old postreproductive ages (up to 106 years), long after the force of natural selection becomes negligible (when there is no room for its further decline). Another important recent development is the discovery of long-term ‘memory' for early-life experiences in longevity determination. Siblings born to young mothers have significantly higher chances to live up to 100 years, and this new finding, confirmed by two independent research groups, calls for its explanation. As recent studies found, even the place and season of birth matter for human longevity. Beneficial longevity effects of young maternal age are observed only when children of the same parents are compared, while the maternal age effect often could not be detected in across-families studies, presumably being masked by between-family variation. It was also found that male gender of centenarian has a significant positive effect on the survival of adult male biological relatives (brothers and fathers) but not of female relatives. Finally, large gender differences are found in longevity determinants for males and females, suggesting a higher importance of occupation history for male centenarians as well as a higher importance of home environment history for female centenarians.
Wie effektiv sind Ausbildungstherapien? Vergleichsstudie zur Effektivität von Ausbildungs- und Regeltherapien
Authors: Peikert Gregor , Baum Aniko , Barchmann Dirk , Schröder Dietmar , Kropp Peter
Published: December 2014

Hintergrund: Psychotherapeuten in Ausbildung (PiA) leisten in Deutschland einen bedeutenden Beitrag zur psychotherapeutischen Versorgung. Bisher wurde kaum untersucht, wie effektiv die während der Ausbildung durchgeführten Therapien im Vergleich zu Behandlungen durch erfahrene Psychotherapeuten sind. Patienten und Methoden: Sämtliche im Jahr 2007 an der Ambulanz eines verhaltenstherapeutischen Ausbildungsinstituts abgeschlossenen Behandlungen («Ausbildungstherapien», n = 487) wurden mit abgeschlossenen Behandlungen durch niedergelassene psychologische Psychotherapeuten («Regeltherapien», n = 224) verglichen. Dazu wurden klinische und soziodemographische Daten aus den Patientenakten erhoben, zudem wurden Patienten und Therapeuten retrospektiv befragt. Als zentrales Erfolgsmaß wurde der Fragebogen zur Beurteilung der Behandlung (FBB) in einer Patienten- und einer Therapeutenversion eingesetzt. Ergebnisse: Ausbildungstherapien erwiesen sich als ebenso effektiv wie Regeltherapien, erstrecken sich bei vergleichbaren Stundenzahlen aber über signifikant kürzere Zeiträume. Schlussfolgerungen: Unter Supervision durchgeführte Ausbildungstherapien sind in der Versorgungspraxis durchschnittlich ebenso effektiv wie Behandlungen durch erfahrene Psychotherapeuten. Damit wird die Validität von Psychotherapiestudien unterstützt, in denen PiA die Behandlungen durchführen. Zudem wird belegt, dass Ausbildungstherapien nicht nur quantitativ, sondern auch qualitativ einen wesentlichen Beitrag zur psychotherapeutischen Versorgung der Bevölkerung leisten.
The Importance of Contrast Volume/Glomerular Filtration Rate Ratio in Contrast-Induced Nephropathy Patients after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation
Authors: Gul Ilker , Zungur Mustafa , Tastan Ahmet , Okur Faik Fevzi , Damar Ertan , Uyar Samet , Sahin Veysel , Tavli Talat
Published: December 2014

Background/Aim: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a method which is increasingly applied in severe aortic stenosis treatment. The development of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) after TAVI increases morbidity and mortality rates. Within the scope of this study, the importance of the contrast medium volume to glomerular filtration rate (CV/GFR) ratio in determining the development of CIN and the amount of CV that could be applied was evaluated. Methods: Seventy-two patients (aged 78.6 ± 11.6 years; 38 females) who underwent aortic valve replacement with the TAVI method between June 2013 and August 2014 were included in the study. CIN was defined as an absolute increase in serum creatinine of >0.5 mg/dl or a relative increase of >25% within 48-72 h after TAVI. CIN+ and CIN- patients were classified into two groups. The χ2 test, t test, Mann-Whitney U test, ROC analysis, and univariate and multivariate regression analyses were applied for statistical analyses. Results: CIN was detected in 16 patients (22%) in our study. Baseline creatinine, baseline GFR, the Mehran risk score, CV, and the CV/GFR ratio were determined as the predictive factors of CIN development. A CV/GFR ratio of 3.9 was specified to predict CIN development with 71% sensitivity and 80% specificity. Conclusion: After TAVI, CIN may develop due to various reasons. In patients to whom TAVI was applied, the CV/GFR ratio may be a guideline helping to prevent the development of renal pathologies. The amount of contrast medium that can be given to a patient can be calculated in terms of baseline GFR.
Efficacy and Safety of Huxin Formula in Patients after CABG: A Multicenter, Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lin Yu , Wang Yun-Fei , Lin Dong-Qun , Chen Jing-Wei , Li Jun-Zhe , Lan Tao-Hua , Ou Ai-Hua , Ruan Xin-Min
Published: December 2014

Background: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is widely used in the treatment of coronary artery disease. A multicenter, double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Huxin Formula post CABG. Patients and Methods: 270 inpatients with coronary heart disease participated in this study. CABG patients in the control group were treated with placebo, while patients in the experimental group were treated with Huxin Formula 1 week after the surgery. All patients were treated for 6 months and followed up for another 6 months. The main outcomes (death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, and readmission) were assessed 360 days after treatment, and secondary outcomes (frequency and scores of angina pectoris, etc.) were assessed 0, 90, 180, 270, and 360 days after treatment. Results: Our results showed no significant difference between the 2 groups for the primary endpoints. In patients with cardiac function class II (New York Heart Association), the score of angina pectoris was significantly lower (3.88 ± 3.86 vs. 5.45 ± 3.59) and the frequency of angina pectoris attacks was less (0.96 ± 1.01 vs. 1.36 ± 0.94) after 90 days of treatment with Huxin Formula compared to placebo (p < 0.05). In patients with 3 coronary vessel lesions, the cardiac function class (1.14 ± 0.35 vs. 1.05 ± 0.21) after 360 days was significantly higher in the control group compared to the treatment group (p < 0.05). There were no obvious adverse reactions. Conclusion: Huxin Formula may improve cardiac function of patients with 3 coronary vessel lesions and relieve symptoms of patients with cardiac function class II but failed to show superiority in primary outcomes.
Transforming Cardiovascular Disease Prevention in Women: Time for the Pygmalion Construct to End
Authors: Wenger Nanette K.
Published: December 2014

The transformation of cardiovascular disease prevention for women must address that a number of nontraditional atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors are unique to or predominant in women. As well, many traditional atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors impart differential risks for women and for men. Gender-specific risk assessment and management have the potential to improve atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease outcomes in women.
A new colorful species of Pristimantis (Anura: Craugastoridae) from the eastern flank of the Cordillera Central in Colombia
Authors: RIVERA-PRIETO DIEGO A. , RIVERA-CORREA MAURICIO , DAZA JUAN M.
Published: December 2014

We describe a new species of Pristimantis from the humid forests on the eastern flank of the northern Cordillera Central in Colombia (6º 23' 19.3554" N, 75º 1' 24.0594" W; ca. 1150 m.a.s.l.). Pristimantis jaguensis sp. nov. is characterized by an extraordinary variation in color and is readily distinguished from congeneric species by lacking nuptial pads, discoidal fold and conical calcar tubercles; flanks and belly white to cream without blotches as well as iris yellow ocher to copper with thick brown reticulation and cream sclera. Molecular phylogenetic analyses recovered the new species in a clade with species mostly distributed in Ecuador. Our finding suggests that new taxa can still be discovered in the Middle Magdalena River valley of Colombia despite the extensive sampling this region has received during the last decades.
On some sea cucumbers from Ghana (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) with descriptions of a new genus and one new species
Authors: THANDAR AHMED S. , MJOBO SIFISO
Published: December 2014

This paper reports on some sea cucumbers (Holothuroidea) in the collections of the NHMUK, taken off the coast of Ghana. Most result from collections around Accra during the years 1949–52. A couple of other species are included. Altogether six species are here reported, viz. Holothuria (Holothuria) dakarensis Panning, 1939; Holothuria (Semperothuria) imitans Ludwig, 1875; Holothuria (Vaneyothuria) lentiginosa lentiginosa (von Marenzeller,1893); Stereoderma congoana (Heding, 1935); Ocnus cruciformis Thandar n. sp. and Leptopentacta cabindaensis (Cherbonnier, 1949) herein transferred to a new genus Cherbocnus Thandar erected for this purpose. Another West African species, Cladodactyla monodi Cherbonnier, 1950 is referred to Stereoderma. All cucumariids are West African forms whereas the holothuriids are shared with the North-West Atlantic Ocean.
Global social science discourse: A Southern perspective on the world
Authors: Vessuri Hebe
Published: December 2014

The relationship of social science and society is actively under discussion today in processes of social identity-making in the world at large. This article explores how, in different contexts, powerful institutions such as universities, disciplines, states, and more recently, a varied array of social movements struggle to define principles by which to determine which knowledge holders should be included, and on what terms, within social science. The analysis starts by reviewing the dominant discourse about academic social science and speculates on some of the factors influencing it, which are contingent upon the social relations and identities built around it in the setting of a powerful institution such as the university. Next it refers to the community of practice that grew around development thinking and practices since the early 20th century, mainly in governmental and nongovernmental institutions, aiming at social intervention. Finally, the analysis identifies the huge world expansion of social science in recent decades and its implications in the era of globalization. In view of persisting asymmetries and inequalities, this article asks about the possibility of alternative ways of practicing research. It suggests the need for a comparative frame that would foster organic interconnections between multiple voices and nourish a diversity of approaches.
Review of Trace Mineral Requirements for Preterm Infants
Authors: Finch Carolyn Weiglein
Published: December 2014

Inadequate nutrient stores at birth are an inevitable consequence of being born prematurely. Preterm infants also have high nutrient requirements, which increase with earlier gestational ages. As a result, early nutrition intervention is required to prevent further deficits that, if not corrected, can affect growth and long‐term outcomes. Preterm infants often require several weeks of parenteral nutrition (PN) support, which includes trace mineral supplementation. Trace minerals are considered essential nutrients, unable to be synthesized in the human body. Deficiencies of trace minerals have been reported, yet evidence‐based guidelines for assessment and supplementation have not been clearly defined. Food and Drug Administration–approved parenteral trace mineral intake guidelines are more than 30 years old. In an effort to more clearly define trace mineral supplementation and monitoring guidelines for preterm infants, a review of literature was performed with the purpose to (1) summarize trace mineral roles in preterm infants, (2) describe clinical signs of deficiency and toxicity, and (3) present intake recommendations and considerations for preterm infants based on current available literature. Review of literature was completed using PubMed and Cochrane databases to find relevant studies specific to trace mineral requirements for preterm infants, trace mineral supplementation of PN, human milk fortifiers, and preterm infant formulas. Review of literature supports that trace mineral depletion can lead to clinical compromise in preterm infants; therefore, suggesting that every effort be made to ensure adequate provision of trace minerals is given to preterm infants. Practical considerations for the clinical nutrition management of preterm infants were also identified in this review.
Comparing Wheelchair Cushions for Effectiveness of Pressure Relief: A Pilot Study
Authors: Shechtman Orit , Hanson Carolyn S. , Garrett Donna , Dunn Pam
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to determine if there were differences in pressure relieving abilities among six commonly prescribed wheelchair cushions and whether differences were related to the participant's body mass. In addition, the participant's perception of cushion comfort was investigated. A convenience sample of 40 adult wheelchair users were recruited from a rehabilitation hospital. Participants sat on the following six cushions for 5 minute periods: Flexseat, Jay 2, Pindot, ROHO High, ROHO Low, and Stimulite. Pressure measurements were recorded with the Xsensor Pressure Mapping System, a new instrument available to therapists. It was discovered that ROHO High and ROHO Low cushions were more effective in relieving pressure than the other cushions. Cushion pressure relieving abilities were largely dependent on the individual's body mass. ROHO cushions were also perceived to be more comfortable than all other cushions tested regardless of body mass and pressure relief.
Visuomotor Organization and Thinking Operations Performance of School-Age Ethiopian, Bedouin, and Mainstream Israeli Children
Authors: Katz Noomi , Kizony Rachel , Parush Shula
Published: December 2014

In this study, the cognitive performance, specifically visuomotor organization and thinking operations, of new immigrant children (Ethiopian) and children from a minority group (Bedouin) was compared to the performance of mainstream Israeli children in two age groups. By assessing the cognitive performance of children from different cultural contexts, a more basic understanding can be gained of the child's ability to perform in school, in daily self-care, and in play/leisure tasks. Furthermore, knowledge of information-processing development that influences occupation in different cultures will advance occupational science. The findings suggest that cultural context as well as schooling have a powerful impact on children's cognitive performance. The findings may have implications for various diverse populations, and therefore it is recommended to study the cognitive performance of school-age children in other populations and to use a dynamic assessment to explore the learning potential of children. It is recommended to develop preventive intervention programs in populations from diverse cultural contexts.
Self-Reported Assessments of Quality of Life after Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Paterniti Debora A. , Price Matt D. , Haidet Paul
Published: December 2014

To understand quality of life after knee replacement, researchers must consider the total functional and social burden for patients. This article reports the results of a prospective study to understand patients' subjective perspectives of quality of life during total knee replacement surgery and healing. Data were collected through longitudinal interviews, patients' diaries, and standardized measures of quality of life. The findings include that problems of living undermine older patients' assessments of quality of life. They suggest that the events that bear on healing require a process analysis rather than sequential measurement.
The Unpredictability of Habits and Routines for Mothers of Preschool-Age Children
Authors: Francis-Connolly Elizabeth
Published: December 2014

The study reported in this article sought to gain an understanding of the daily experiences and activities of mothers with preschool-age children, and to examine what motherhood is like for them. In-depth interviews with 20 mothers of preschool-age children (newborn to 5 years old) were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The findings reveal that mothers are immersed in the daily caretaking demands of young children and feel unprepared for the intensity of mothering. Participants described motherhood as an enfolded activity of caretaking, nurturing, and teaching. What underlies these two powerful themes, motherhood immersion and enfolded activity, is that having young children creates unpredictability in daily habits. Mothers of young children have difficulty developing even a loosely structured routine, which adds to the intensity of mothering.
Time-Use Patterns of Young Children Institutionalized in Eastern Europe
Authors: Daunhauer Lisa A. , Bolton Anne , Cermak Sharon A.
Published: December 2014

This study describes time-use patterns of children institutionalized in an Eastern European orphanage and examines differences in time-use between institutionalized children and those attending child care in the United States. Thirty-two children between the ages of 8 and 34 months participated. Sixteen institutionalized children and 16 typical, family-reared children attending child care were matched approximately for age and gender. Inter-rater reliability of the observers' time-use observations was established at 92% agreement (range, 81% to 98%). Results indicated children living in the institution spent significantly less time with adults, engaged in significantly different activities, and spent less time in adult-led activities compared to the childcare group (χ2 = 9.94, p < .01; χ2 = 23.51, p ≥ .001; and χ2 = 16.45, p < .001, respectively). Where the children spent time and their observable affect did not differ significantly between groups (χ2 = .64, ns; and χ2 = .68, ns, respectively). Differences between the groups' occupations and engagement with others highlight factors that may contribute to developmental delays in institutionalized children.
The Preschool Activity Card Sort
Authors: Berg Christine , LaVesser Patti
Published: December 2014

Measuring the participation of preschoolers (children between 3 and 6 years of age) with disabilities in everyday activites has become a professional mandate for occupational therapists. This study outlines the development of the Preschool Activity Card Sort, which can establish a child's occupational profile through parent interview. Six of the nine International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health activity and participation domains are included in the Preschool Activity Card Sort. A literature review and an analysis of parent time logs were used to compile photographs of preschoolers engaged in typical activities. Parents respond to these photographs during discussion about their child's participation in these everyday activities. When a child does not participate in age-appropriate activities, the Preschool Activity Card Sort helps determine whether it is due to child, family, or environmental barriers. Identifying these barriers assists the therapist and the family in determining therapeutic goals.
Self-Beliefs about Pain and Occupational Performance: A Comparison of Two Measures Used in a Pain Management Program
Authors: van Huet Helen , Williams Danielle
Published: December 2014

This study evaluated the relationship between pain self-efficacy, occupational performance, and satisfaction with performance in clients with chronic pain who participated in a hospital-based pain management program. Self-efficacy was measured using the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (Nicholas, 1988). Occupational performance and satisfaction were measured using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (Law et al., 1998). Data were collected from 64 clients who completed both measures before and after a 3-week pain management program. Results of the study demonstrated a positive difference between pain self-efficacy and occupational performance ( t = 4.43, df = 62, p < .05), and between pain self-efficacy and satisfaction ( t = 4.02, df = 62, p < .05). This research suggests that therapy should address the beliefs of clients about their abilities to perform occupations when living with chronic pain (Strong, 1995) and reinforces the use of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and Canadian Occupational Performance Measure as reliable and valid assessment measures for those with chronic pain.
Development and Testing of Interventions in Occupational Therapy: Toward a New Generation of Research in Occupational Therapy
Authors: Johnston Mark V. , Case-Smith Jane
Published: December 2014

Development, refinement, and testing of occupational therapy interventions require a systematic approach. The authors explain the four phases for clinical trials used in pharmaceutical research and apply them to the development and testing of occupational therapy interventions. The challenges faced by occupational therapy researchers in designing clinical trials include difficulties in specifying the intervention, blinding subjects, therapists, and evaluators, and identifying objective but client-centered measures of primary outcomes. Examples are provided of researchers who have developed and tested occupational therapy interventions in phases.
Commentary: A Journal of Research in Occupational Therapy: The Response, the Responsibility
Authors: West Wilma L.
Published: December 2014

In the preceding guest editorial, Llorens has presented a philosophical and historical review of the several internal persuasions which culminated in our newest professional publication.

This further introduction to The Occupational Therapy Journal of Research (OTJR) will address generic as well as profession-particular aspects of three stages in its evolution. That evolution will be viewed both retrospectively with reference to antecedents and prospectively in the form of plans for further development. The context for both past and future views conceives research along a continuum from generation, through dissemination, to utilization.
Occupational Therapy Theory Development: Knowledge and Values Held by Recent Graduates
Authors: Van Deusen Fox Julia
Published: December 2014

A random sample of recently certified occupational therapists was surveyed regarding their value positions. Results indicated that personal development of occupational therapy theory held low priority relative to other aspects of occupational therapy. Chi square analysis showed that those therapists who obtained their basic professional education in masters' or certificate programs valued theory development significantly more than their baccalaureate educated peers. Results also showed that newly certified occupational therapists did not have knowledge of a wide range of occupational therapy theorists and that such knowledge was unrelated to value position toward theory development.
Terminal and Instrumental Values of Beginning Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Katz Gary M.
Published: December 2014

One hundred four beginning occupational therapy students who entered New York University during a three-year period, completed the Rokeach Value Survey. The Rokeach Value Survey consists of two lists of 18 values each, the first reflecting desirable end-states of existence (terminal values) and the other setting forth preferred modes of conduct (instrumental values). Statistical comparison of juniors (n = 56) and first -year master's students (n = 48) revealed few differences. Nonstatistical comparisons of the beginning occupational therapy students with a college-educated sample (n = 68) were also completed. These informal comparisons revealed that occupational therapy students ranked characteristics such as helpful, loving, and true friendship higher than did the college-educated sample. However, the occupational therapy students ranked characteristics such as broad-minded and self-controlled lower than did the college-educated sample. Descriptions of the occupational therapy students' values are discussed, and additional research in the values of occupational therapy students is suggested in order to generalize the current findings.
Vestibular Function in Children with Nonparalytic Strabismus
Authors: Slavik Betsy A.
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to compare vestibular functioning of children with comitant strabismus to normative data on this area of neural processing, and to determine whether or not there is a relationship between vestibular function and developmental delay in children with comitant strabismus. Results of the study revealed that all of the children with comitant strabismus demonstrated prolonged nystagmus when compared to normal children and that 64% of the strabismic children demonstrated developmental delay. Furthermore, the two areas of development in which strabismic children showed the most delay were fine motor adaptive and gross motor. Theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.
The Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test: Development of a Revised Procedure for Use with Preschool Children
Authors: Kennedy Kathleen S.
Published: December 2014

A pilot study was conducted to compare performances of 3-year-old children with 5- and 6-year-olds on the standardized Southern California Postrotary Nystagmus Test (SCPNT) and a revised version of this instrument. Standard test procedures were modified to correct for the variable of head and trunk control in 3-year-olds. The subjects were 16 3-year-olds and six 5- and 6-year-olds in metropolitan Cincinnati, Ohio. Subjects were administered the standardized and revised SCPNT in counterbalanced order approximately 1 hour apart. Data were analyzed using the Pearson product-moment correlation The correlation coefficient for total scores on the two tests for 5- and 6-year-olds was .88. This coefficient was found to be significant (p< 05), providing evidence for validity of the revised SCPNT. The correlation coefficient for the 3-year-olds was .42, which was not found to be significant (p< 05). Results suggested that for 3-year-olds, different neural processes were being tapped by the two tests. Recommendations for further research are discussed.
Sensorimotor versus Fine Motor Activities in Eliciting Vocalizations in Autistic Children
Authors: Reilly Cay , Nelson David L. , Bundy Anita C.
Published: December 2014

Sensory integrative therapy has been proposed as a method for enhancing language and eliciting spontaneous verbalizations in autistic children. In this study, activities frequently used in sensory integrative therapy (S activities) and fine motor tabletop activities (F activities) were compared in terms of the spontaneous vocalizations elicited in 18 autistic children ranging in age from 6.2 to 11.7 years. The Sample of Vocal Behavior, a subtest of the Autism Screening Instrument for Educational Planning was used to assess both the quantity and quality of the vocalizations occurring during the two kinds of activities The children served as their own controls, receiving in counterbalanced fashion, two S-activity sessions and two F-activity sessions over a 3-week period Contrary to expectations, F activities elicited significantly more variety of speech, greater average length of utterances, and less autistic speech. There were no significant differences for the following variables: function of speech, articulation, total language raw scores, or rate of vocalizations. Possible explanations for the unanticipated findings include: (1) the effects of sensorimotor experiences on verbal functions may not be immediate in this developmentally delayed population; (2) the subjects had received preexperimental training to respond verbally when engaged in F activities; or (3) the subjects are overstimulated during the S-activity sessions leading to excessive arousal.
Feeding Assessment: Development of a Biopsychosocial Instrument
Authors: Sparling Joyce W. , Rogers Joan C.
Published: December 2014

This article proposes that behavioral and sociocultural factors are important in assessing the feeding of at-risk children. In describing an instrument to assess maternal and child behaviors during feeding the article challenges therapists who work with at-risk children in the area of oral-motor intervention to broaden their conceptual framework for practice to include psychosocial as well as biological factors in their feeding assessment and intervention Qualitative methodology consistent with this biopsychosocial perspective is described as it was used to formulate an assessment tool for measuring concurrently the interaction of caregiver and child in conjunction with the oral-motor performance of the child. The resulting Feeding Interaction Report-Scale and Treatment is described in its initial stages to facilitate understanding of the reciprocal nature of parent and child interaction in activities of daily life. The pilot use of the scale with 14 at-risk 2- to 40-month-old children and their parents is reported. Results indicate that although this line of assessment is in its formative stages, it may elucidate an important direction in clinical understanding of the way parents and children interact and develop.
The Validity of the Clinical Diagnosis of Vestibular Dysfunction
Authors: Fisher Anne G. , Mixon James , Herman Richard
Published: December 2014

Evaluation of depressed or impaired prone extension, equilibrium, muscle tone, cocontraction, gravitational security, and tolerance to movement are frequently used as clinical signs of vestibular dysfunction. This study sought to determine if controlled laboratory tests of visual-vestibular function would discriminate between normal subjects and a group of adult subjects with a majority of the clinical signs identified above. Vestibular nystagmus, elicited under dark conditions using a computerized rotary chair, was recorded using electronystagmography. The adults with suspected vestibular dysfunction were found to have depressed Scores, indicative of deficits in tonic processing of vestibular inputs within the brainstem. The score found to be the best discriminator between normal subjects and those with suspected impairment was the duration of postrotary nystagmus. Results were interpreted as supportive of a relationship between vestibular processing and learning/motor coordination deficits, and provided support for the validity of symptoms identified through clinical assessment.
Imagery into Action: Visual Imagery and Occupational Therapy Education
Authors: Powell Nancy J.
Published: December 2014

Visual mental imagery, or the ability to perceive a situation or set of objects in the “mind's eye,” is an important aspect of the learning process. One of the major theories of imagery is called the array theory and is aimed at describing components in an imagery processing system. Building on past research supporting this theory, a study was performed that examined three-dimensional space in images. Forty subjects participated in an imagery scanning task under conditions involving either a real or photographic display of objects. Results indicated that (a) space is a property of images; (b) the stimulus from which an image is formed may affect perceived space in images; and (c) differences in individuals' ability to form vivid images could influence perceived space. Further research is needed to enable occupational therapy educators to assess how activity is preserved in images and how individual differences among students could relate to the array theory of imagery processing.
Historical Research: Ordering the Past to Chart Our Future
Authors: Levine Ruth Ellen
Published: December 2014

Present concerns about the state of theory and practice in occupational therapy can be explained in light of past developments, both successful and unsuccessful efforts. This article explains why occupational therapists still use arts-and-crafts modalities, the practice of which can be traced to early therapists influenced by the philosophy and practices of a social movement that swept across America from 1895 to 1920. This analysis is based on historical research, a methodology not common in occupational therapy literature.
An Electromyographic Study of the Middle Deltoid and Middle Trapezius Muscles during Warping
Authors: McGrain Peter , Hague Marjory A.
Published: December 2014

The differences in myoelectric activity of the right middle trapezius and the right middle deltoid were examined for twenty-one 18- to 35-year-old healthy females during two methods of warping yarn. All the women were right-handed and experienced at the task but did not have a preference for either a vertical or horizontal board placement. Baseline EMG data, consisting of unresisted isometric contraction of the shoulder joint at 90° of abduction with the elbow in extension, were collected from the selected muscles prior to the subjects' performance of the task. The baseline activity was used as a means of normalizing the EMG data. Two paired t tests of the normalized EMG activity demonstrated that both muscles were significantly more active when warping was performed in the horizontal position ( p <. 001) than in the vertical position, making the horizontal positioning of a warping board better to use when these muscles need to be exercised.
A Comparison of the ROM Dance Home Exercise/Rest Program with Traditional Routines
Authors: Van Deusen Julia , Harlowe Diane
Published: December 2014

This study compared adults with rheumatoid arthritis who participated in the experimental ROM Dance Program and adults on traditional home exercise/rest regimes. The ROM Dance Program incorporates principles based on the intrinsic value of meaningful occupation with principles from an ancient Chinese exercise form. Self-reports, body image data, and joint range measures were analyzed prior to the experiment, immediately following ROM Dance participation, and again four months later.

At four-months follow-up, program participants perceived the ROM Dance as more beneficial, more enjoyable, and performed with greater frequency than did control group members of their traditional exercise regimen. This suggests that a major advantage of the ROM Dance Program is motivational. Control group members described their arms and hands in a more positive way than did ROM Dance participants. This suggests that the program's emphasis on body awareness may result in a more realistic but less positive body image. No meaningful differences were observed for range of motion measures.
Eating Skills: A Review of Current Assessment Practices
Authors: Gisel Erika G. , Pollock Nancy A.
Published: December 2014

Occupational therapists in pediatric practice are often required to evaluate and treat children with eating problems. The lack of a standardized eating assessment has hindered therapists' ability to define normal oral-motor development, identify unequivocally those children who will benefit from intervention, refine treatment procedures using information gained through accurate assessment, and monitor progress in clinical and research settings. The purposes of this review are to (a) outline the scope of eating problems in children with oral-motor impairments, (b) establish the need for a quantitative eating assessment, (c) review the assessments currently available, and (d) suggest directions for future development.
Value Acquisition in an Occupational Therapy Curriculum
Authors: DePoy Elizabeth , Merrill Susan Cook
Published: December 2014

As the health care industry has become increasingly competitive, health care practitioners have become aware of the need to demonstrate that the occupational groups to which they belong perform unique and vital services to clients and patients. This awareness has fostered the development of a body of literature on professional identity and development that includes discussion of the role of values in defining and differentiating professional groups The purpose of this study was to begin exploration and discussion of the process by which students in one occupational therapy curriculum acquire and integrate professional values. The results of the study indicate that the acquisition of professional values may be a developmental process that is not complete at graduation from academic training. Additionally, the study indicates that value acquisition is a fertile area for research, one of tremendous importance for the education of future practitioners.