bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Life Indicators in Long Term Care: Opinions of Elderly Residents and Their Families
Authors: Robichaud Line , Durand Pierre J. , Bédard René , Ouellet Jean-Paul
Published: September 2011

Background. There are very few studies that have integrated the opinions of nursing home residents and their families into the process of developing valid outcome measures for the quality of life in long-term care facilities. Purpose. The objective of this study was to identify the interpersonal and environmental characteristics for the best substitute living environment, as perceived by recently (< 6 months) and not as recently (> 6 months of residency) admitted residents and their families. Methods. A qualitative research approach was used with 27 elderly residents and families from five nursing homes. Results. Of the 11 quality of life indicators identified by the participants, the three most important ones were being treated with respect, sympathetic involvement in relationships, and perceived competency through technical (nursing) acts and attitudes. Practice Implications. As nursing home residents age, substitute homes have to adapt if they are to continue offering opportunities for self-actualization and a continuing sense of identity. Opinions of elderly residents and their families are very helpful for occupational therapists particularly when designing programs in long-term care facilities.
Critical Elements of Spirituality as Identified by Adolescent Mental Health Clients
Authors: MacGillivray Patrick S. , Sumsion Thelma , Wicks-Nicholls Joy
Published: September 2011

Background. Client spirituality has been recognized as a central component of Canadian occupational therapy, but little research has been conducted in this area. Purpose. This exploratory study attempted to gain insight into the relevant elements of spirituality and its importance to inpatient adolescent mental health clients. Method. An adolescent spirituality questionnaire was developed from definitions of spirituality in the literature, modified by a focus group consisting of members of the target population, and administered to 11 respondents. Results. Elements related to the individual and lifelong pursuits of the individual were most closely associated with spirituality while those items traditionally connected with spirituality and with external pursuits, activities, and relationships are considered less relevant by this population. Results suggest that spirituality is important to a majority of inpatient adolescent mental health clients. Practice Implications. It is suggested that more studies drawing information on spirituality directly from specific client populations are essential for the occupational therapy community to improve its comprehension of, and to better its ability to address in practice, the critical area of client spirituality.
From Education to Occupation: The Story of Thomas Bessell Kidner
Authors: Friedland Judith , Davids-Brumer Naomi
Published: September 2011

Background. Thomas Bessell Kidner is well-known in the United States as a great contributor to occupational therapy. He is not well-known in Canada despite the fact that his first contributions to the profession were made here between 1900 and 1918. Purpose. To tell the story of Thomas Bessell Kidner and his impact on occupational therapy. Methods. Interpretive biography research methods using archival materials, published papers and family papers. Results. Kidner's work as an organizer of manual training in elementary schools in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick and as Director of Technical Education for Calgary prepared him for his work as Vocational Secretary of the Military Hospitals Commission during World War I. Kidner developed, implemented and oversaw the reeducation program for injured soldiers across Canada. It included bedside occupations, off-ward and curative workshop activities provided by ward aides, as well as industrial training and apprenticeships in the workplace. Practice Implications. Kidner's story stimulates us to revisit our profession's early emphasis on return-to-work. Knowing about our past helps occupational therapists to build a stronger identity.
Expert Opinion on Implementation Strategies for the International Health Regulations (2005)
Authors: Katz Rebecca L. , Gornto Sarah E. , Chretien Jean Paul
Published: September 2011

The World Health Organization's (WHO) Revised International Health Regulations [IHR(2005)] entered into force in Summer 2007. The purpose of the IHR is to promote an environment of enhanced global cooperation in order to protect populations from emerging health threats. In order to obtain guidance on the development of the core capacities to support IHR implementation, we surveyed a select group of disease surveillance and global health experts from academia, government, non‐governmental organizations, and international organizations as to how they assess IHR (2005) implementation efforts. These experts identify essential disease surveillance components, including laboratory capacity, communication networks, human resources, and technological infrastructure, as well as social and cultural issues necessary for effective IHR implementation. The results offer guidance to policymakers and those in position to make decisions on the top priorities for the implementation of the IHR (2005).
Roundtable Discussion: Data on Ageing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Populations
Authors: Kowal Paul , Gibson Richard , Wutzke Sonia , Smith Kate , Cotter Philippa , Strivens Edward , Lindeman Melissa , LoGiudice Dina , Broe G.
Published: September 2011

This paper covers a Roundtable Discussion about available data on indigenous populations included in large health and aging studies in Australia during the 2010 Australian Association of Gerontology Northern Territories, “The Ageing North,” Conference. The intended focus was to identify available health and well‐being data on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations including health transitions and morbidity in adults and older adults; to discuss the consultation process that would be needed to decide if the data can be analysed; and if so, how to proceed with examination of those data. It is recognised that indigenous participation is essential in commencing dialogue with the data custodians.
In Memoriam: David G. C. McCann, M.D., MPH, FAASFP, FAADM (September 29, 1960 ‐ August 7, 2011)
Authors: Nicogossian Arnauld
Published: September 2011

A commemoration of a great friend and contributor to World Medical & Health Policy journal.
In Memoriam: Kevin Allen Mack, MD
Authors: Zimmerman Thomas
Published: September 2011

A commemoration of a great friend and contributor to World Medical & Health Policy journal.
Medical and Public Health Consequences of 2001
Authors: Nicogossian Arnauld , Zimmerman Thomas , Kloiber Otmar , Stabile Bonnie , Doarn Charles R. , Terbush James W. , Ramirez Maurice A.
Published: September 2011

Since 2001 preparedness to respond to the threats and hazards encountered in our daily life is becoming common practice. Disasters, either natural or human made, happen unexpectedly and can cause destruction, especially when threats and risks are ignored. Significant progress has been made in community preparedness, in the U.S. and globally. Yet populations experiencing health and economic disparities have an especially difficult time recovering from disasters and are likely to suffer long‐term health consequences disproportionately. Medical policies and practices targeting these groups should be researched, validated and deployed.
Craniocervical arterial dissections as sequelae of chiropractic manipulation: patterns of injury and management
Authors: Albuquerque Felipe C. , Hu Yin C. , Dashti Shervin R. , Abla Adib A. , Clark Justin C. , Alkire Brian , Theodore Nicholas , McDougall Cameron G.
Published: September 2011

Object

Chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine is a known cause of craniocervical arterial dissections. In this paper, the authors describe the patterns of arterial injury after chiropractic manipulation and their management in the modern endovascular era.

Methods

A prospectively maintained endovascular database was reviewed to identify patients presenting with craniocervical arterial dissections after chiropractic manipulation. Factors assessed included time to symptomatic presentation, location of the injured arterial segment, neurological symptoms, endovascular treatment, surgical treatment, clinical outcome, and radiographic follow-up.

Results

Thirteen patients (8 women and 5 men, mean age 44 years, range 30–73 years) presented with neurological deficits, head and neck pain, or both, typically within hours or days of chiropractic manipulation. Arterial dissections were identified along the entire course of the vertebral artery, including the origin through the V4 segment. Three patients had vertebral artery dissections that continued rostrally to involve the basilar artery. Two patients had dissections of the internal carotid artery (ICA): 1 involved the cervical ICA and 1 involved the petrocavernous ICA. Stenting was performed in 5 cases, and thrombolysis of the basilar artery was performed in 1 case. Three patients underwent emergency cerebellar decompression because of impending herniation. Six patients were treated with medication alone, including either anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy. Clinical follow-up was obtained in all patients (mean 19 months). Three patients had permanent neurological deficits, and 1 died of a massive cerebellar stroke. The remaining 9 patients recovered completely. Of the 12 patients who survived, radiographic follow-up was obtained in all but 1 of the most recently treated patients (mean 12 months). All stents were widely patent at follow-up.

Conclusions

Chiropractic manipulation of the cervical spine can produce dissections involving the cervical and cranial segments of the vertebral and carotid arteries. These injuries can be severe, requiring endovascular stenting and cranial surgery. In this patient series, a significant percentage (31%, 4/13) of patients were left permanently disabled or died as a result of their arterial injuries.
Use of in vivo near-infrared laser confocal endomicroscopy with indocyanine green to detect the boundary of infiltrative tumor
Authors: Martirosyan Nikolay L. , Cavalcanti Daniel D. , Eschbacher Jennifer M. , Delaney Peter M. , Scheck Adrienne C. , Abdelwahab Mohammed G. , Nakaji Peter , Spetzler Robert F. , Preul Mark C.
Published: September 2011

Object

Infiltrative tumor resection is based on regional (macroscopic) imaging identification of tumorous tissue and the attempt to delineate invasive tumor margins in macroscopically normal-appearing tissue, while preserving normal brain tissue. The authors tested miniaturized confocal fiberoptic endomicroscopy by using a near-infrared (NIR) imaging system with indocyanine green (ICG) as an in vivo tool to identify infiltrating glioblastoma cells and tumor margins.

Methods

Thirty mice underwent craniectomy and imaging in vivo 14 days after implantation with GL261-luc cells. A 0.4 mg/kg injection of ICG was administered intravenously. The NIR images of normal brain, obvious tumor, and peritumoral zones were collected using the handheld confocal endomicroscope probe. Histological samples were acquired from matching imaged areas for correlation of tissue images.

Results

In vivo NIR wavelength confocal endomicroscopy with ICG detects fluorescence of tumor cells. The NIR and ICG macroscopic imaging performed using a surgical microscope correlated generally to tumor and peritumor regions, but NIR confocal endomicroscopy performed using ICG revealed individual tumor cells and satellites within peritumoral tissue; a definitive tumor border; and striking fluorescent microvascular, cellular, and subcellular structures (for example, mitoses, nuclei) in various tumor regions correlating with standard clinical histological features and known tissue architecture.

Conclusions

Macroscopic fluorescence was effective for gross tumor detection, but NIR confocal endomicroscopy performed using ICG enhanced sensitivity of tumor detection, providing real-time true microscopic histological information precisely related to the site of imaging. This first-time use of such NIR technology to detect cancer suggests that combined macroscopic and microscopic in vivo ICG imaging could allow interactive identification of microscopic tumor cell infiltration into the brain, substantially improving intraoperative decisions.
Anterior dural ectasia mimicking a lytic lesion in the posterior vertebral body in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Bele Keerthiraj , Pendharkar Hima Shriniwas , Venkat Easwer , Gupta Arun Kumar
Published: September 2011

Anterior dural ectasia is an extremely rare finding in ankylosing spondylitis (AS). The authors describe a unique case of AS in which the patient presented with cauda equina syndrome as well as an unusual imaging finding of erosion of the posterior aspect of the L-1 (predominantly) and L-2 vertebral bodies due to anterior dural ectasia. Symptomatic patients with long-standing AS should be monitored for the presence of dural ectasia, which can be anterior in location, as is demonstrated in the present case.
Association of magnetic resonance imaging signal changes and outcome prediction after surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy
Authors: Vedantam Aditya , Jonathan Ashish , Rajshekhar Vedantam
Published: September 2011

Object

Few studies have evaluated the prognostic significance of different types of T2-weighted MR imaging changes in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). The object of this study was to determine whether the type of increased signal intensity (ISI) was an independent predictor of outcome following central corpectomy in patients with CSM or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).

Methods

Magnetic resonance images obtained in 197 patients who had undergone central corpectomy for CSM or OPLL were assessed for ISI within the cord on sagittal T2-weighted images and hypointensity on T1-weighted images. The T2-weighted changes were categorized as no change (Type 0), fuzzy (Type 1), or sharp (Type 2) based on the ISI characteristics. Outcomes were assessed as a change in Nurick grade of 1 grade or more from preoperatively to postoperatively, and cure as a follow-up Nurick grade of 0 or 1. Multilevel regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of change in Nurick grade ≥ 1 and cure.

Results

There were 30 patients (15.2%) with Type 0, 104 patients (52.8%) with Type 1, and 63 patients (32%) with Type 2 ISI on MR images. Age, duration of symptoms, and preoperative Nurick grade were similar among the groups. A preoperative Nurick grade of 4 or 5 (OR 0.23, p < 0.001) and presence of Type 2 ISI on T2-weighted images (OR 0.48, p = 0.04) negatively influenced the probability of cure after surgery. Hypointensity on T1-weighted images was only seen in patients who had Type 2 ISI changes. Among the 63 patients with Type 2 ISI, the presence of T1-weighted hypointensity (16 patients) was found to negatively impact cure (OR 0.1, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Increased signal intensity on preoperative T2-weighted MR images was seen in more than 80% of the cases. However, only Type 2 ISI on T2-weighted images had a prognostic significance of being associated with a decreased likelihood of cure in patients with CSM or OPLL. Hypointensity on T1-weighted images predicted a lower probability of cure among patients with Type 2 ISI on T2-weighted images.
Humanity and Sustainability
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: September 2011

So far our open access publishing company MDPI (Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute) has published mainly science, medicine and technology journals. To become a multidisciplinary publisher, we launched the journal Sustainability [1]. More recently, we started to run several social science journals, including Societies [2], Religions [3], Administrative Sciences [4] and Behavioral Sciences [5]. Today we published the first paper [6] of the inaugural issue of Humanities (ISSN 2076-0787). This will be an international open access journal, publishing scholarly papers of high quality across all humanities disciplines.
As a publisher, I would like to publish journals surrounding the topics of sustainability and I believe the humanities as a discipline of academic studies are very important. As a scientist, I believed science and technology will only benefit human beings. I was raised in a small village, living a very primitive life in a peasant family: no electricity, no machines, of course no TV and no refrigerator. Now, the life of my children is completely different. Even my own life has completely changed. I have witnessed very rapid changes: more and more machines are used to consume mineral resources and energy and to pollute the environment, in order to produce more and more powerful machines (we are also launching a journal titled Machines, in which the relationship between Man and machine should be an interesting topic.). Machines are more and more like human individuals consuming resources themselves (we are launching a journal titled Resources). [...]
Does α-Amino-β-methylaminopropionic Acid (BMAA) Play a Role in Neurodegeneration?
Authors: Chiu Alexander S. , Gehringer Michelle M. , Welch Jeffrey H. , Neilan Brett A.
Published: September 2011

The association of α-amino-β-methylaminopropionic acid (BMAA) with elevated incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis/Parkinson’s disease complex (ALS/PDC) was first identified on the island of Guam. BMAA has been shown to be produced across the cyanobacterial order and its detection has been reported in a variety of aquatic and terrestrial environments worldwide, suggesting that it is ubiquitous. Various in vivo studies on rats, mice, chicks and monkeys have shown that it can cause neurodegenerative symptoms such as ataxia and convulsions. Zebrafish research has also shown disruption to neural development after BMAA exposure. In vitro studies on mice, rats and leeches have shown that BMAA acts predominantly on motor neurons. Observed increases in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca2+ influx, coupled with disruption to mitochondrial activity and general neuronal death, indicate that the main mode of activity is via excitotoxic mechanisms. The current review pertaining to the neurotoxicity of BMAA clearly demonstrates its ability to adversely affect neural tissues, and implicates it as a potentially significant compound in the aetiology of neurodegenerative disease. When considering the potential adverse health effects upon exposure to this compound, further research to better understand the modes of toxicity of BMAA and the environmental exposure limits is essential.
Comparison between Wild and Hatchery Populations of Korean Pen Shell (Atrina pectinata) Using Microsatellite DNA Markers
Authors: Suck An Hye , Kim Byeong Hak , Lee Jang Wook , Dong Chun Mae , Kim Shin Kwon , Kim Yi Cheong
Published: September 2011

Pen shell (Atrina pectinata) is a popular food source with a high commercial value in a number of Asian Pacific areas. The natural A. pectinata population has been declining continuously over the past several decades. Microsatellite DNA markers are a useful DNA-based tool for monitoring the genetic variation of pen shell populations. In this study, 20 polymorphic microsatellite (MS) DNA markers were identified from a partial genomic pen shell DNA library enriched in CA repeats, and used to compare allelic variation between wild and hatchery pen shell populations in Korea. A total of 438 alleles were detected at the 20 MS loci in the two populations. All loci were easily amplified and demonstrated allelic variability, with the number of alleles ranging from 5 to 35 in the wild population and from 5 to 22 in the farmed population. The average observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.69 and 0.82, respectively, in the hatchery samples and 0.69 and 0.83, respectively, in the wild samples. Statistical analysis of fixation index (FST) and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed minor, but significant, genetic differences between the wild and hatchery populations (FST = 0.0106, CI95% = 0.003–0.017). These microsatellite loci may be valuable for future aquaculture and population genetic studies for developing conservation and management plans. Further studies with additional pen shell samples are needed to conclusively determine the genetic diversity between the wild and hatchery populations.
The Potential of Tetrandrine as a Protective Agent for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Chen Yun , Tsai Ya-Hui , Tseng Sheng-Hong
Published: September 2011

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality, with a high incidence of severe morbidity in survivors. The treatment to minimize tissue injury after stroke is still unsatisfactory and it is mandatory to develop effective treatment strategies for stroke. The pathophysiology of ischemic stroke is complex and involves many processes including energy failure, loss of ion homeostasis, increased intracellular calcium level, platelet aggregation, production of reactive oxygen species, disruption of blood brain barrier, and inflammation and leukocyte infiltration, etc. Tetrandrine, a bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, has many pharmacologic effects including anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective effects. In addition, tetrandrine has been found to protect the liver, heart, small bowel and brain from ischemia/reperfusion injury. It is a calcium channel blocker, and can inhibit lipid peroxidation, reduce generation of reactive oxygen species, suppress the production of cytokines and inflammatory mediators, inhibit neutrophil recruitment and platelet aggregation, which are all devastating factors during ischemia/reperfusion injury of the brain. Because tetrandrine can counteract these important pathophysiological processes of ischemic stroke, it has the potential to be a protective agent for ischemic stroke.
Consequences of Uncertainty in Global-Scale Land Cover Maps for Mapping Ecosystem Functions: An Analysis of Pollination Efficiency
Authors: Schulp Catharina J.E. , Alkemade Rob
Published: September 2011

Mapping ecosystem services (ESs) is an important tool for providing the quantitative information necessary for the optimal use and protection of ecosystems and biodiversity. A common mapping approach is to apply established empirical relationships to ecosystem property maps. Often, ecosystem properties that provide services to humanity are strongly related to the land use and land cover, where the spatial allocation of the land cover in the landscape is especially important. Land use and land cover maps are, therefore, essential for ES mapping. However, insight into the uncertainties in land cover maps and how these propagate into ES maps is lacking. To analyze the effects of these uncertainties, we mapped pollination efficiency as an example of an ecosystem function, using two continental-scale land cover maps and two global-scale land cover maps. We compared the outputs with maps based on a detailed national-scale map. The ecosystem properties and functions could be mapped using the GLOBCOVER map with a reasonable to good accuracy. In homogeneous landscapes, an even coarser resolution map would suffice. For mapping ESs that depend on the spatial allocation of land cover in the landscape, a classification of satellite images using fractional land cover or mosaic classes is an asset.
Canadian Rheumatology Association Recommendations for Pharmacological Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Traditional and Biologic Disease-modifying Antirheumatic Drugs
Authors: BYKERK VIVIAN P. , AKHAVAN POONEH , HAZLEWOOD GLEN S. , SCHIEIR ORIT , DOOLEY ANNE , HARAOUI BOULOS , KHRAISHI MAJED , LECLERCQ SHARON A. , LÉGARÉ JEAN , MOSHER DIANE P. , PENCHARZ JAMES , POPE JANET E. , THOMSON JOHN , THORNE CARTER , ZUMMER MICHEL , BOMBARDIER CLAIRE
Published: September 2011

Objective.

The Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA) has developed recommendations for the pharmacological management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with traditional and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) in 2 parts. Part 1 is reported here.

Methods.

The CRA Therapeutics Committee assembled a national working group of RA clinical experts, researchers, patient consumers, and a general practitioner. Treatment questions were developed a priori based on results of a national needs assessment survey. A systematic review of all clinical practice guidelines and consensus statements regarding treatment with traditional and biologic DMARD in patients with RA published between January 2000 and June 2010 was performed in Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases, and the grey literature. Guideline quality was assessed by 2 independent reviewers, and guideline characteristics, recommendations, and supporting evidence from observational studies and randomized controlled trials were synthesized into evidence tables. The full working group reviewed the evidence tables and developed recommendations using a modified Delphi technique.

Results.

Five overarching principles and 26 recommendations addressing general RA management strategies and treatment with glucocorticoids and traditional and biologic DMARD were developed for rheumatologists, other primary prescribers of RA drug therapies, and patients with RA.

Conclusion.

These recommendations were developed based on a synthesis of international guidelines, supporting evidence, and expert consensus considering the Canadian healthcare context with the intention of promoting best practices and improving healthcare delivery for persons with RA.
Enjeux culturels et politiques de la mise en patrimoine des espaces coloniaux
Authors: Sinou Alain
Published: September 2011

Résumé L’objet de cet article est de présenter, à partir d’exemples choisis dans une même aire culturelle, l’Afrique de l’Ouest, dans quelles conditions l’espace bâti colonial, c’est-à-dire l’architecture et l’espace urbain produits à l’initiative des occidentaux entre le milieu du xix e et le milieu du xx e siècle, devient une figure du patrimoine bâti. Après avoir caractérisé cet espace, ce texte propose d’identifier les différents acteurs du processus, leurs logiques, leurs objectifs, ainsi que les enjeux des politiques conservatoires et les difficultés qui apparaissent dans leur mise en œuvre.
Mémoires urbaines et potentialités patrimoniales à Addis-Abeba
Authors: Ouallet Anne , Giorghis Fasil
Published: September 2011

Résumé La ville d’Addis-Abeba offre l’exemple d’une ville récente, un peu plus que centenaire, mais dans laquelle plusieurs strates patrimoniales peuvent être décelées. Elles renvoient à des périodes historiques tranchées pendant lesquelles se sont épanouies des architectures spécifiques, liées à des épisodes plus ou moins glorieux ou plus ou moins douloureux de l’histoire éthiopienne. Les métissages architecturaux qui en sont issus sont l’illustration des pouvoirs de l’époque et donnent à la ville un cachet particulier. La création d’Addis-Abeba par l’empereur Ménélik II en 1886 comme ville de garnison lui a donné sa polynucléarité de base autour des campements des généraux, puis la décision de conforter son rôle de capitale a conduit à la construction de maisons de maître édifiées dans une architecture éthiopienne intégrant des inspirations étrangères, principalement arméniennes, indiennes et européennes. La période de l’occupation italienne, de 1936 à 1941, est, elle, marquée par la volonté de construire une ville imposant la civilisation des occupants. Cependant, les urbanistes italiens de l’époque, loin d’appliquer la table rase suggérée par Mussolini, ont intégré dans leurs constructions des savoir-faire locaux. L’époque plus contemporaine façonne aussi une nouvelle urbanité. Nous analysons ici les modes de constitution d’un espace urbain en continuel renouvellement et ses rapports à la mémoire urbaine.
Entre monde et patrie : l'entreprise patrimoniale palestinienne, 1995-2002
Authors: Bulle Sylvaine
Published: September 2011

Résumé Nous parlons ici du fait patrimonial apparu dans la très éphémère période d’autonomie palestinienne (1995-2002). On a vu en effet s’ouvrir un grand nombre de « chantiers » urbains liés à la reconquête du bâti dans les villes palestiniennes de Ramallah, Naplouse, Gaza, Hébron, Bethléem. La mémoire du patrimoine local et autochtone a été fortement invoquée comme une croyance politique dans la nation palestinienne, capable de « rassembler » la communauté. La menace de la dégradation, de la guerre et surtout le registre symbolique et nationaliste palestinien sont partout invoqués dans la politique de préservation d’un patrimoine, partiellement libéré de la longue présence étrangère, militaire et coloniale. Mais ces identités urbaines ne doivent pas être considérées comme la stricte expression du patriotisme. La politique de mémoire est regardée ici au filtre de la circulation des idées ou du capital, et d’une certaine internationalisation dont dépend fortement le champ urbain palestinien. Tel est le cas de Bethléem 2000 , gigantesque machine patrimoniale articulée à la commémoration universelle du millénaire que nous analysons comme l’exemple d’une nouvelle culture publique, à la croisée de la nation, de l’économique et d’une certaine culture publique mondiale.
Bullying in a Caring Profession: Reasons, Results, and Recommendations
Authors: Broome Barbara S. , Williams-Evans Shiphrah
Published: September 2011

The theories of Florence Nightingale and Jean Watson provide a framework for the caring work of nurses. Ironically, this caring profession struggles with bullying. Bullying has both physiological and psychological ramifications for the person being bullied and a negative impact on the organization and patient care. Strategies to address bullying include education, developing codes of acceptable conduct for the workplace, and a zero-tolerance policy. Mental health nurses have a vital role in helping nurses return to roles of caring.
A Systematic Review of Osteoporosis Health Beliefs in Adult Men and Women
Authors: McLeod Katherine M. , Johnson C. Shanthi
Published: September 2011

Osteoporosis is major public health concern affecting millions of older adults worldwide. A systematic review was carried out to identify the most common osteoporosis health beliefs in adult men and women from descriptive and intervention studies. The Osteoporosis Health Belief Scale (OHBS) and Osteoporosis Self-efficacy Scale (OSES) evaluate osteoporosis health beliefs, including perceived susceptibility and seriousness, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy of calcium and exercise, and health motivation, and their relationship to preventive health behaviours. A comprehensive search of studies that included OHBS and OSES subscale scores as outcomes was performed. Fifty full-text articles for citations were reviewed based on inclusion criteria. Twenty-two articles met the inclusion criteria. Greater perceived seriousness, benefits, self-efficacy, health motivation, and fewer barriers were the most common health-belief subscales in men and women. Few studies were interventions (n=6) and addressed osteoporosis health beliefs in men (n=8). Taking health beliefs into consideration when planning and conducting education interventions may be useful in both research and practice for osteoporosis prevention and management; however, more research in this area is needed.
Atrioventricular Dissociation after Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Yu Siegfried William , Vallurupalli Srikanth , Arnoldi Jennifer , Holloway Richard
Published: September 2011

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is increasingly used as a treatment for psychiatric disorders. Cardiac effects are the principal cause of medical complications in these patients. We report a case of atrioventricular (AV) dissociation that occurred after ECT that was treated with pacemaker implantation. The mechanisms contributing to the onset of AV dissociation in this patient, and the management and rationale for device therapy, in light of the most recent guidelines, are reviewed.
Every braid admits a short sigma-definite expression
Authors: Fromentin Jean
Published: September 2011

A result by Dehornoy (1992) says that every nontrivial braid admits a

σ

-definite expression, defined as a braid word in which the generator

σ_i

with maximal index
i
appears with exponents that are all positive, or all negative. This is the ground result for ordering braids. In this paper, we enhance this result and prove that every braid admits a

σ

-definite word expression that, in addition, is quasi-geodesic. This establishes a longstanding conjecture. Our proof uses the dual braid monoid and a new normal form called the rotating normal form.
Invariant theory and the $\mathcal{W}_{1+\infty}$ algebra with negative integral central charge
Authors: Linshaw Andrew R.
Published: September 2011

The vertex algebra

\mathcal{W}_{1+\infty,c}

with central charge

c

may be defined as a module over the universal central extension of the Lie algebra of differential operators on the circle. For an integer

n\geq 1

, it was conjectured in the physics literature that

\mathcal{W}_{1+\infty,-n}

should have a minimal strong generating set consisting of

n^2+2n

elements. Using a free field realization of

\mathcal{W}_{1+\infty,-n}

due to Kac-Radul, together with a deformed version of Weyl's first and second fundamental theorems of invariant theory for the standard representation of

GL_n

, we prove this conjecture. A consequence is that the irreducible, highest-weight representations of

\mathcal{W}_{1+\infty,-n}

are parametrized by a closed subvariety of

\mathbb{C}^{n^2+2n}

.
Objectivity and Stability of the Preschool Imitation and Praxis Scale
Authors: Vanvuchelen Marleen , Roeyers Herbert , De Weerdt Willy
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVE. We examined rater and test–retest reliability of the Preschool Imitation and Praxis Scale (PIPS).

METHOD. We administered the PIPS to 119 typically developing children ages 1.5–4.9 yr.

RESULTS. The PIPS demonstrated acceptable intra- and interrater reliability on item level (kw = 0.45–1) and scale level (intraclass correlation coefficient ICC = 0.996; 95% CI: 0.968–0.999 and ICC = 0.995; 95% CI: 0.990–0.997, respectively). The smallest detectable difference of the PIPS was 5.6%, indicating that the change score rated by different raters for an individual child is valid and that the PIPS can be used by different raters as an outcome measure to determine children’s improvement or maturation. Results of test–retest analysis revealed that the PIPS score is stable over time (r = .93).

CONCLUSION. The PIPS appears to meet the required standards regarding objectivity and stability. The PIPS may assist clinicians and researchers in evaluating and reevaluating preschoolers’ imitation ability, which is a primary learning strategy of young children.
Statistics of vertical backscatter profile of cirrus clouds
Authors: Veglio P. , Maestri T.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. A nearly global statistical analysis of vertical backscatter and extinction profiles of cirrus clouds collected by the CALIOP lidar, on-board of the Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation, is presented. Statistics on frequency of occurrence and distributions of bulk properties of cirrus clouds in general and, for the first time, of horizontally homogeneous (on a 5-km field of view) cirrus clouds only are provided. Annual and seasonal backscatter profiles (BSP) are computed for the horizontally homogeneous cirri. Differences found in the day/night cases and for midlatitudes and tropics are studied in terms of the mean physical parameters of the clouds from which they are derived. The relation between cloud physical parameters (optical depth, geometrical thickness and temperature) and the shape of the BSP is investigated. It is found that cloud geometrical thickness is the main parameter affecting the shape of the mean CALIOP BSP. Specifically, cirrus clouds with small geometrical thicknesses show a maximum in mean BSP curve placed near cloud top. As the cloud geometrical thickness increases the BSP maximum shifts towards cloud base. Cloud optical depth and temperature have smaller effect on the shape of the CALIOP BSPs. In general a slight increase in the BSP maximum is observed as cloud temperature and optical depth increase. In order to fit mean BSPs, as functions of geometrical thickness and position within the cloud layer, polynomial functions are provided. The impact on satellite radiative transfer simulations in the infrared spectrum when using either a constant ice-content (IWC) along the cloud vertical dimension or an IWC profile derived from the BSP fitting functions is evaluated. It is, in fact, demonstrated that, under realistic hypotheses, the mean BSP is linearly proportional to the IWC profile.
iGen 0.1: a program for the automated generation of models and parameterisations
Authors: Tang D. F. , Dobbie S.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Complex physical systems can often be simulated using very high resolution models but this is not always practical because of computational restrictions. In this case the model must be simplified or parameterised in order to make it computationally tractable. A parameterised model is created using an ad-hoc selection of techniques which range from the formal to the purely intuitive, and as a result it is very difficult to objectively quantify the fidelity of the model to the physical system. It is rare that a parameterised model can be formally shown to simulate a physical system to within some bounded error. Here we introduce a new approach to parameterising models which allows error to be formally bounded. The approach makes use of a newly developed computer program, which we call iGen, that analyses the source code of a high-resolution model and formally derives a much faster, parameterised model that closely approximates the original, reporting bounds on the error introduced by any approximations. These error bounds can be used to formally justify conclusions about a physical system based on observations of the model's behaviour. Using increasingly complex physical systems as examples we illustrate that iGen has the ability to produce parameterisations that run typically orders of magnitude faster than the underlying, high-resolution models from which they are derived.
Inter-annual variations of snow days over Switzerland from 2000–2010 derived from MODIS satellite data
Authors: Foppa N. , Seiz G.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Snow cover plays a vital role in the Swiss Alps and therefore it is of major interest to determine and understand its variability on different spatiotemporal scales. Within the activities of the National Climate Observing System (GCOS Switzerland) inter-annual variations of snow days over Switzerland were derived from 2000 to 2010 based on data from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on board the Terra satellite. To minimize the impact of cloud cover on the MODIS snow product MOD10C1, we implemented a post-processing technique based on a forward and backward gap-filling approach. Using the proposed methodology it was possible to determine the total number of annual snow days over Switzerland from 2000 to 2010 (SCDMODIS). The accuracy of the calculated snow days per year were quantitatively evaluated against three in situ snow observation sites representing different climatological regimes (SCDin_situ). The correlation (c) between annual SCDMODIS and SCDin_situ is highest for the lowland regions by (c = 0.90) with a slightly lower correlation for the Central Alps of 0.82 and a mean absolute difference of −6 to −7 days (SCDin_situ − SCDMODIS). Differences were further analysed on a monthly and daily resolution over the entire period. The overall agreement between SCDMODIS and SCDin_situ on a daily basis over 10 yr is 88 % to 94 %, depending on the regional characteristics of each validation site. Differences between SCDMODIS and SCDin_situ vary with higher mean absolute differences during the snow accumulation period in autumn and smaller differences after spring, in particularly for the Central Alps. These findings are in agreement with other studies.
Long-term results of half-fluence photodynamic therapy for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Rouvas Alexandros , Stavrakas Panagiotis , Theodossiadis Panagiotis G. , Stamatiou Polyxeni , Milia Maria , Giannakaki Emmanuela , Datseris Ioannis
Published: September 2011

Purpose

To report long-term functional and anatomic results of safety-enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT) with half-dose verteporfin for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 29 eyes of 27 patients with chronic CSC was performed. All eyes received half-dose PDT. Visual acuity, central foveal thickness, and angiographic features were evaluated.

Results

Mean follow-up time was 20 months (range 12-40). Mean best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.45±0.23 logMAR to 0.08±0.08 logMAR. Twenty-five eyes (86%) had a complete resolution of the subretinal fluid after only one session and 4 eyes had recurrences, 3 of them at the same leaking area observed at baseline. At the end of the follow-up all eyes (100%) showed resolution of the subretinal fluid. There was no visual loss secondary to exaggerated response to the PDT, nor any other adverse events.

Conclusions

The long-term results of this study further support the safety and effectiveness of safety-enhanced PDT with half dose of verteporfin for the treatment of chronic CSC.
Surgical Resection of a Massive Residual Retroperineal Mass after Chemotherapy in Non-Seminomatous Germ cell Tumor of the Testis: A Borderline Case
Authors: Buffardi Andrea , Destefanis Paolo , Lillaz Beatrice , Bosio Andrea , Bisconti Alessandro , De Maria Claudia , Carchedi Mariateresa , Rolle Luigi , Fontana Dario
Published: September 2011

Background

According to the last EAU Guidelines about testicular cancer, surgical resection of residual masses after chemotherapy in NSGCT is indicated in the case of visible residual masses and when serum levels of tumor markers are normal or normalizing. If markers are not normalized and when several chemotherapeutic regimens have failed to cure metastatic disease, resection of residual tumors (so called “desperation surgery”) should be offered to these patients.

Methods

We are going to present the case of a 30-year-old patient, affected by metastatic NSGCT. According to the prognostic-based staging system for metastatic germ cell cancer, our patient was in the poor prognosis group. The retroperitoneal mass involved all major vascular structures and still caused a bilateral obstruction of the upper urinary tract. Histological examination after radical orchiectomy revealed embryonal carcinoma and immature teratoma. The patient underwent a four-cycle VIP chemotherapy and then salvage chemotherapy with four cycles of TIP. After chemotherapy, the patient still presented large multiple metastatic localizations. Tumor markers were reduced but not normalized. The patient was then proposed for the resection of residual tumor. The residual mass could not be dissected from the left renal pedicle, so the left nephrectomy was unavoidable. The mass was hardly detached from vena cava and aorta. A bilateral iliac and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy was performed. At the end of the procedure, the retroperitoneal space was completely free.

Results

Post-operative hospital stay was regular. A CT scan performed 3 months after the procedure did not show any residual lesion in the retroperitoneum. Three and six months later, the patient underwent the residual tumor resection of the right mediastinum and then of the left mediastinum and supraclavear metastases. Afterwards the patient underwent an EP consolidation chemotherapy. The patient is alive, 12 months after the retroperitoneal surgery.

Conclusions

Our experience confirms that resection of residual tumors is safe and feasible also in cases of very large abdominal disease.
Ceramic Matrix Composites:
Si
C
Whisker–Reinforced
Authors: Nakao Wataru
Published: September 2011

SiC‐whisker‐reinforced ceramic exhibits much higher fracture toughness than monolithic ceramics, because the whisker bridging and pullout provide much large fracture resistance when the crack propagates perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the SiC whiskers. Owing to the toughening efficiency and the ease of processing, SiC whisker reinforcements have been employed not only for conventional ceramics such as alumina and silicon nitride but also for advanced ceramics such as zirconium diboride. Furthermore, SiC‐whisker‐reinforced ceramic matrix composites possess self‐healing ability driven by the SiC whisker oxidation and the insulating electrical properties due to the SiC‐whisker‐interconnecting network. These features are expected to extend its applications. In this article, these mechanisms are overviewed and introduced in detail.
Fracture: Interlaminar
Authors: de Moura Marcelo F. S. F. , Guedes Rui M.
Published: September 2011

This article is mainly dedicated to describe the most prominent tests for interlaminar fracture characterization of composites under pure (I, II, and III) and mixed‐mode (I + II, I + III, and II + III) loading. Experimental details and difficulties inherent to each test are presented and discussed. In addition, the drawbacks of using classical data reduction schemes due to phenomena related to fracture propagation with nonnegligible fracture process zones are emphasized. As a consequence, an alternative data reduction scheme based on crack equivalent concept and specimen compliance is proposed to overcome the referred difficulties. Some results highlighting the advantages of the proposed methodology are presented for several of the presented tests.
Hybrid Mats
Authors: Othman Abdul Rahim , Amir Amie NorFreeda
Published: September 2011

Hybrid mats have been developed by controlling the constituent composition in order to provide wider opportunities to control material stiffness, strength, and cost. There are three distinctive types of hybridization of the composite mats, in which the details have been made available in this article. Further details on the fabrication process as well as the applications in the engineering structures are also presented.

The readers will also be presented with the unique mechanical behavior of the hybrid mats, in which the apparent disparities are observed, compared to the single‐fiber system. Brief overview on the optimization work carried out on the multisystem fibers in order to attain the desired properties is also highlighted. The final section provides the issues and problems that inhibit the development of the hybrid technology.
Modified Natural‐Fiber‐Based Composites
Authors: Rowell Roger Max , Xu Yan
Published: September 2011

Natural fibers can be modified to increase durability and stability. Two technologies are presently commercial to improve both of these properties: reaction of the fiber with acetic anhydride (acetylation) and heat treatments. Both increase durability and stability. Mechanical properties are slightly improved with acetylation, especially wet strength and wet stiffness, while heat treatments greatly reduce mechanical properties.
Searching for Sophia: Adult educators and adult learners as wisdom seekers
Authors: Fraser Wilma , Hyland‐Russell Tara
Published: September 2011

This chapter invokes the spirit of Sophia as metaphorical guide and describes a path for educators and practitioners that can assist in the recovery of wisdom in the face of increasing pressures of measurable outcomes within the field of lifelong learning.