bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data-driven recursive input–output multivariate statistical forecasting model: case of DO concentration prediction in Advancetown Lake, Australia
Authors: Bertone Edoardo , Stewart Rodney A. , Zhang Hong , Veal Cameron
Published: August 2015

A regression model integrating data pre-processing and transformation, input selection techniques and a data-driven statistical model, facilitated accurate 7 day ahead time series forecasting of selected water quality parameters. A core feature of the modelling approach is a novel recursive input–output algorithm. The herein described model development procedure was applied to the case of a 7 day ahead dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration forecast for the upper hypolimnion of Advancetown Lake, Queensland, Australia. The DO was predicted with an R2 > 0.8 and a normalised root mean squared error of 14.9% on a validation data set by using 10 inputs related to water temperature or pH. A key feature of the model is that it can handle nonlinear correlations, which was essential for this environmental forecasting problem. The pre-processing of the data revealed some relevant inputs that had only 6 days' lag, and as a consequence, those predictors were in-turn forecasted 1 day ahead using the same procedure. In this way, the targeted prediction horizon (i.e. 7 days) was preserved. The implemented approach can be applied to a wide range of time-series forecasting problems in the complex hydro-environment research area. The reliable DO forecasting tool can be used by reservoir operators to achieve more proactive and reliable water treatment management.
Matrix-Assisted Transplantation of Functional Beige Adipose Tissue
Authors: Tharp Kevin M. , Jha Amit K. , Kraiczy Judith , Yesian Alexandra , Karateev Grigory , Sinisi Riccardo , Dubikovskaya Elena A. , Healy Kevin E. , Stahl Andreas
Published: August 2015

Novel, clinically relevant, approaches to shift energy balance are urgently needed to combat metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. One promising approach has been the expansion of brown adipose tissues that express uncoupling protein (UCP) 1 and thus can uncouple mitochondrial respiration from ATP synthesis. While expansion of UCP1-expressing adipose depots may be achieved in rodents via genetic and pharmacological manipulations or the transplantation of brown fat depots, these methods are difficult to use for human clinical intervention. We present a novel cell scaffold technology optimized to establish functional brown fat–like depots in vivo. We adapted the biophysical properties of hyaluronic acid–based hydrogels to support the differentiation of white adipose tissue–derived multipotent stem cells (ADMSCs) into lipid-accumulating, UCP1-expressing beige adipose tissue. Subcutaneous implantation of ADMSCs within optimized hydrogels resulted in the establishment of distinct UCP1-expressing implants that successfully attracted host vasculature and persisted for several weeks. Importantly, implant recipients demonstrated elevated core body temperature during cold challenges, enhanced respiration rates, improved glucose homeostasis, and reduced weight gain, demonstrating the therapeutic merit of this highly translatable approach. This novel approach is the first truly clinically translatable system to unlock the therapeutic potential of brown fat–like tissue expansion.
Exercise and Weight Loss Improve Muscle Mitochondrial Respiration, Lipid Partitioning, and Insulin Sensitivity After Gastric Bypass Surgery
Authors: Coen Paul M. , Menshikova Elizabeth V. , Distefano Giovanna , Zheng Donghai , Tanner Charles J. , Standley Robert A. , Helbling Nicole L. , Dubis Gabriel S. , Ritov Vladimir B. , Xie Hui , Desimone Marisa E. , Smith Steven R. , Stefanovic-Racic Maja , Toledo Frederico G.S. , Houmard Joseph A. , Goodpaster Bret H.
Published: August 2015

Both Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity in individuals with severe obesity. However, the impact of RYGB with or without exercise on skeletal muscle mitochondria, intramyocellular lipids, and insulin sensitivity index (SI) is unknown. We conducted a randomized exercise trial in patients (n = 101) who underwent RYGB surgery and completed either a 6-month moderate exercise (EX) or a health education control (CON) intervention. SI was determined by intravenous glucose tolerance test. Mitochondrial respiration and intramyocellular triglyceride, sphingolipid, and diacylglycerol content were measured in vastus lateralis biopsy specimens. We found that EX provided additional improvements in SI and that only EX improved cardiorespiratory fitness, mitochondrial respiration and enzyme activities, and cardiolipin profile with no change in mitochondrial content. Muscle triglycerides were reduced in type I fibers in CON, and sphingolipids decreased in both groups, with EX showing a further reduction in a number of ceramide species. In conclusion, exercise superimposed on bariatric surgery–induced weight loss enhances mitochondrial respiration, induces cardiolipin remodeling, reduces specific sphingolipids, and provides additional improvements in insulin sensitivity.
Evaluation of total dietary fiber concentration and composition of commercial diets used for management of diabetes mellitus, obesity, and dietary fat-responsive disease in dogs
Authors: Farcas Amy K. , Larsen Jennifer A. , Owens Tammy J. , Nelson Richard W. , Kass Philip H. , Fascetti Andrea J.
Published: August 2015

Objective—To determine total dietary fiber (TDF) concentration and composition of commercial diets used for management of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and dietary fat-responsive disease in dogs.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Sample—Dry (n = 11) and canned (8) canine therapeutic diets.

Procedures—Insoluble and soluble dietary fiber (IDF and SDF), high-molecular-weight SDF (HMWSDF), and low-molecular-weight SDF (LMWSDF) concentrations were determined. Variables were compared among diets categorized by product guide indication, formulation (dry vs canned), and regulatory criteria for light and low-fat diets.

Results—SDF (HMWSDF and LMWSDF) comprised a median of 30.4% (range, 9.4% to 53.7%) of TDF; LMWSDF contributed a median of 11.5% (range, 2.7% to 33.8%) of TDF. Diets for diabetes management had higher concentrations of IDF and TDF with lower proportions of SDF and LMWSDF contributing to TDF, compared with diets for treatment of fat-responsive disease. Fiber concentrations varied within diet categories and between canned and dry versions of the same diet (same name and manufacturer) for all pairs evaluated. Diets classified as light contained higher TDF and IDF concentrations than did non-light diets. All canned diets were classified as low fat, despite providing up to 38% of calories as fat.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Diets provided a range of TDF concentrations and compositions; veterinarians should request TDF data from manufacturers, if not otherwise available. Consistent responses to dry and canned versions of the same diet cannot necessarily be expected, and diets with the same indications may not perform similarly. Many diets may not provide adequate fat restriction for treatment of dietary fat-responsive disease.
Comparison of foods with differing nutritional profiles for long-term management of acute nonobstructive idiopathic cystitis in cats
Authors: Kruger John M. , Lulich Jody P. , MacLeay Jennifer , Merrills Jane , Paetau-Robinson Inke , Brejda John , Osborne Carl A.
Published: August 2015

Objective—To evaluate the effect of nutrition on recurrent clinical signs of lower urinary tract (LUT) disease in cats with idiopathic cystitis.

Design—Randomized, controlled, masked clinical trial.

Animals—31 cats with acute nonobstructive idiopathic cystitis.

Procedures—Cats were assigned to receive 1 of 2 foods (a cystitis prevention or control food) that differed in mineral (calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium), antioxidant, and fatty acid profiles. Owners documented LUT signs daily for up to 1 year. The primary endpoint was the number of recurrent episodes in which a cat had multiple (≥ 2 concurrent) LUT signs within a day (defined as multiple-sign day). Consecutive days in which a cat had multiple LUT signs were considered as a single episode.

Results—4 cats fed prevention food and 2 cats fed control food were excluded from analysis because of noncompliance, gastrointestinal signs, food refusal, or owner voluntary withdrawal. The proportion of cats fed prevention food that had ≥ 1 recurrent episode of multiple-sign days (4/11) was not significantly lower than that of cats fed control food (9/14). However, cats fed prevention food had significantly lower mean incidence rates for recurrent episodes of multiple-sign days (0.7 episodes/1,000 cat-days) and episodes of hematuria (0.3 episodes/1,000 cat-days), dysuria (0.2 episodes/1,000 cat-days), and stranguria (0.2 episodes/1,000 cat-days) as single LUT signs, compared with cats fed control food (5.4, 3.4, 3.1, and 3.8 episodes/1,000 cat-days, respectively). Significantly fewer cats fed prevention food required analgesics (4/11), compared with cats fed control food (12/14).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Foods with differing nutritional profiles appeared to impact mean incidence rates of recurrent feline idiopathic cystitis-associated signs.
Nasal Septal Perforation Associated with Pyoderma Gangrenosum
Authors: McConnell Brook , Said M. Sherif , Ramakrishnan Vijay R.
Published: August 2015

Background

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a skin condition characterized by necrotic ulcers and most commonly occurs on the legs in association with inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis; however, PG rarely involves the head and neck, and very rarely causes nasal septal perforation.

Objective

Here, we describe a case report of PG causing nasal septal perforation in a 71-year-old male with truncal lesions in the absence of either inflammatory bowel disease or autoimmune arthritis.

Methods

Case report with histologic description.

Results

Histology from nasal mucosal biopsies showed chronic inflammation and reactive change without evidence of malignancy. Together with serologic and nonserologic testing, as well as clinical evaluation, we were able to rule out other causes of septal perforation including Wegener's granulomatosis, lymphoma, and vasculitis, and concluded that the cause of nasal septal perforation was most likely PG.

Conclusion

Septal perforation etiology should include a complete history and physical to evaluate for systemic etiologies, including rare ones such as PG.
Successful Endoscopic Endonasal Repair of Nasal Meningoencephalocele in a 21-Day-Old Neonate
Authors: Mohindra Satyawati , Mohindra Sandeep , Kumar Patro Sourabha
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Indications of surgical intervention in congenital nasal meningoencephaloceles includes presence of cerebro spinal fluid rhinorrhea having a risk of causing meningitis, episodes of prior meningitis and bilateral nasal obstruction causing respiratory difficulty in these obligate nasal breathers. Many authors would like to wait till the patient attains the age of 2 to 3 years for repair of the defect due to surgical feasibility. However, early intervention prevents further episodes of meningitis in the future. We present the youngest patient of nasal meningoencephalocele successfully repaired via endoscopic approach.

Case Report

A 21 days old neonate was referred to us with a nasal meningoencephalocele with active cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea. Radiological investigation showed a cribriform plate defect on the right side. Repair was done by endoscopic route by multi-layered closure of the defect which was augmented with a mucoperichondrial flap from the septum. Patient was asymptomatic in the post-operative follow up period and did not have any episode of meningitis till date.

Conclusion

Early repair by transnasal endoscopic route is a feasible surgical option for congenital anterior skull base defects with meningoencephaloceles to prevent further episodes of meningitis. This is feasible even in the neonatal period due to improved technique and instrumentation now available for endoscopic nasal surgeries.
Ethmoid Pneumocele Presenting with Exophthalmos 15 Years after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Song Michelle , Ahn Sun M. , Reh Douglas R. , Shargorodsky Josef
Published: August 2015

Introduction

A pneumocele is an abnormal dilation of an air-containing sinus beyond the normal margins of bone, with associated bony thinning. A delayed ethmoid pneumocele after sinus surgery has not previously been reported.

Methods

A case report of a patient with a delayed ethmoid pneumocele after sinus surgery. The diagnostic workup, operative approach, and postoperative results were evaluated.

Results

A 57-year-old female with a history of endoscopic sinus surgery 15 years prior presented with right eye proptosis and severe orbital and facial pressure. A maxillofacial computed tomography showed a markedly expanded air-filled right anterior ethmoid space with a dehiscent lamina papyracea, consistent with a pneumocele. Marsupialization of the pneumocele as well as a revision ethmoidectomy were performed, with a visible return of the orbital contents to a more natural position. The patient experienced worsened diplopia immediately postoperatively that resolved within two weeks.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates that a pneumocele can present even years after endoscopic sinus surgery, and acute but temporary development or worsening of diplopia can result from surgical decompression of the pneumocele as the eye returns to its natural position.
Gene Expression Profiles in Chronic Idiopathic (Spontaneous) Urticaria
Authors: Patel Ojas P. , Giorno Ralph C. , Dibbern Donald A. , Andrews Karen Y. , Durairaj Sonia , Dreskin Stephen C.
Published: August 2015

Background

The pathophysiology of chronic idiopathic (spontaneous) urticaria (CIU) is poorly understood.

Objective

We hypothesized that a study of gene expression in active lesions from patients with CIU would uncover unexpected associations.

Methods

We enrolled eight patients with CIU and six healthy controls, and obtained 4 mm punch biopsy specimens of active lesions and unaffected skin of patients with CIU and of skin from normal controls. Routine histologic evaluation was performed, RNA was isolated, and gene expression data were assessed. Due to technical reasons, the final evaluation included six samples of lesional skin, six samples of nonlesional skin, and five samples of normal skin.

Results

As expected, lesional skin had more inflammatory cells per high-powered field (mean ± SE, 96 ± 6) than did samples from nonlesional skin of the subjects with CIU (17 ± 2) (p < 0.01). Lesions of CIU showed significant upregulation of 506 genes and reduced expression of 51 genes. Those most upregulated were predominantly involved in cell adhesion (e.g., selectin E [SELE]), cell activation (e.g., CD69), and chemotaxis (e.g., CCL2). Twelve independent canonical pathways with p ≤ 0.001 were identified (including intracellular kinase pathways (RAs-related nuclear protein [RAN] and Janus activated kinase/interferon), cytokine signaling pathways (IL-9, IL10, and IFN), a strong inflammatory response (interferon, IL-9, IL-10, inducible nitric oxide synthase and glucocorticoid pathways) and increased cell proliferation (RAN signaling, cell cycle control, and tRNA charging).

Conclusions

This preliminary study describes a method to study gene activation in urticarial lesions and demonstrated a strong inflammatory response with a large variety of activated genes that are distinct from those reported with other dermatologic conditions.
Nasal Epithelial Myoepithelial Carcinoma: An Unusual Cause of Epiphora, a Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Flam Juliette O. , Brook Christopher D. , Sobel Rachel , Lee John C. , Platt Michael P.
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Epithelial myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) of the nasal cavity is a rare tumor, and here we describe the first case of EMC of the nasal cavity presenting with epiphora. A case presentation and review of the literature is provided.

Methods

A case report is described of a 63-year-old man who presented with unilateral epiphora and was found via a thorough history and physical examination to have a nasal tumor. The physical examination consisted of an ocular examination, including probing and irrigation, and a detailed nasal examination (anterior rhinoscopy, nasal endoscopy). The nasal examination was prompted by the patient's report of concurrent nasal symptoms during history taking. Immunohistochemistry subsequently identified the nasal tumor as EMC. A literature search was performed to gain insights into similar malignancies of the nasal cavity.

Results

Eight cases of EMC of the nasal cavity were identified in the literature, none of the patients presented with epiphora. The case presented here resulted in resolution of the patient's symptoms and no evidence of disease after surgical excision.

Conclusion

Epithelial myoepithelial is a rare salivary gland malignancy that can arise in the nasal cavity. Unilateral epiphora with concurrent nasal symptoms should prompt nasal cavity examination for the possibility of an obstructive tumor.
Effectiveness of Manual Therapy and Therapeutic Exercise for Temporomandibular Disorders: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Armijo-Olivo Susan , Pitance Laurent , Singh Vandana , Neto Francisco , Thie Norman , Michelotti Ambra
Published: August 2015

Background

Manual therapy (MT) and exercise have been extensively used to treat people with musculoskeletal conditions such as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). The evidence regarding their effectiveness provided by early systematic reviews is outdated.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to summarize evidence from and evaluate the methodological quality of randomized controlled trials that examined the effectiveness of MT and therapeutic exercise interventions compared with other active interventions or standard care for treatment of TMD.

Data Sources

Electronic data searches of 6 databases were performed, in addition to a manual search.

Study Selection

Randomized controlled trials involving adults with TMD that compared any type of MT intervention (eg, mobilization, manipulation) or exercise therapy with a placebo intervention, controlled comparison intervention, or standard care were included. The main outcomes of this systematic review were pain, range of motion, and oral function. Forty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed.

Data Extraction

Data were extracted in duplicate on specific study characteristics.

Data Synthesis

The overall evidence for this systematic review was considered low. The trials included in this review had unclear or high risk of bias. Thus, the evidence was generally downgraded based on assessments of risk of bias. Most of the effect sizes were low to moderate, with no clear indication of superiority of exercises versus other conservative treatments for TMD. However, MT alone or in combination with exercises at the jaw or cervical level showed promising effects.

Limitations

Quality of the evidence and heterogeneity of the studies were limitations of the study.

Conclusions

No high-quality evidence was found, indicating that there is great uncertainty about the effectiveness of exercise and MT for treatment of TMD.
Characteristics of US-Licensed Foreign-Educated Physical Therapists
Authors: Cornwall Mark W. , Keehn Mary T. , Lane Mark
Published: August 2015

Background

Foreign-educated physical therapists are often viewed as one possible solution to the current shortage of physical therapists, yet there is very little research regarding these individuals.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe those physical therapists who are licensed in the United States but who were educated in another country. This description includes their country of education, their employment patterns, and the reasons they decided to emigrate and work as a physical therapist in the United States.

Design

A cross-sectional survey was conducted.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to all physical therapists currently licensed in the United States who had been educated in another country. Those who had been licensed within the last 5 years are reported.

Results

The results of the survey indicated that the typical foreign-educated physical therapist is female, aged 32.2 years, and was born and trained in either the Philippines or India. A majority of foreign-educated physical therapists obtained their first license in New York, Michigan, Illinois, Texas, or Florida. The most common reasons cited as to why a particular jurisdiction was chosen for initial employment were “recruiter recommendation,” “family, spouse, partner, or friends,” “ease of the licensure process,” and “ability to secure a visa sponsor.” A majority of foreign-educated physical therapists in this study initially worked in a skilled nursing facility, a long-term care or extended care facility, or a home health setting.

Limitations

Only those foreign-educated physical therapists licensed within the last 5 years are reported.

Conclusions

This study is the first to report on foreign-educated physical therapists in the United States. The findings of this study will provide important and useful information to others dealing with physical therapy professional and workforce issues.
Balance Confidence and Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Are Most Predictive of Falling in Older Adults: Prospective Analysis
Authors: Landers Merrill R. , Oscar Sarrie , Sasaoka Jessica , Vaughn Kyle
Published: August 2015

Background

Evidence suggests that there are several fall predictors in the elderly population, including previous fall history and balance impairment. To date, however, the role of psychological factors has not yet been thoroughly vetted in conjunction with physical factors as predictors of future falls.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine which measures, physical and psychological, are most predictive of falling in older adults.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

Sixty-four participants (mean age=72.2 years, SD=7.2; 40 women, 24 men) with and without pathology (25 healthy, 17 with Parkinson disease, 11 with cerebrovascular accident, 6 with diabetes, and 5 with a cardiovascular diagnosis) participated. Participants reported fall history and completed physical-based measures (ie, Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, self-selected gait speed, Timed “Up & Go” Test, Sensory Organization Test) and psychological-based measures (ie, Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire, Falls Efficacy Scale, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale). Contact was made 1 year later to determine falls during the subsequent year (8 participants lost at follow-up).

Results

Using multiple regression, fall history, pathology, and all measures were entered as predictor candidates. Three variables were included in the final model, explaining 49.2% of the variance: Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (38.7% of the variance), Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior Questionnaire (5.6% additional variance), and Timed “Up & Go” Test (4.9% additional variance).

Limitations

Falls were based on participant recall rather than a diary.

Conclusions

Balance confidence was the best predictor of falling, followed by fear of falling avoidance behavior, and the Timed “Up & Go” Test. Fall history, presence of pathology, and physical tests did not predict falling. These findings suggest that participants may have had a better sense of their fall risk than with a test that provides a snapshot of their balance.
Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Different Weekly Frequencies of Pilates for Chronic Low Back Pain: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Miyamoto Gisela Cristiane , Moura Katherinne Ferro , Franco Yuri Rafael dos Santos , de Oliveira Naiane Teixeira Bastos , Amaral Diego Diulgeroglo Vicco , Branco Amanda Nery Castelo , da Silva Maria Liliane , Lin Christine , Cabral Cristina Maria Nunes
Published: August 2015

Background

The Pilates method has been recommended to patients with low back pain, but the evidence on effectiveness is inconclusive. In addition, there is still no evidence for the cost-effectiveness of this method or for the ideal number of sessions to achieve the highest effectiveness.

Objective

The aim of this study will be to investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the Pilates method with different weekly frequencies in the treatment of patients with nonspecific low back pain.

Design

This is a randomized controlled trial with blinded assessor.

Setting

This study will be conducted at a physical therapy clinic in São Paulo, Brazil.

Participants

Two hundred ninety-six patients with nonspecific low back pain between the ages of 18 and 80 years will be assessed and randomly allocated to 4 groups (n=74 patients per group).

Intervention

All groups will receive an educational booklet. The booklet group will not receive additional exercises. Pilates group 1 will follow a Pilates-based program once a week, Pilates group 2 will follow the same program twice a week, and Pilates group 3 will follow the same program 3 times a week. The intervention will last 6 weeks.

Measurements

A blinded assessor will evaluate pain, quality-adjusted life-years, general and specific disability, kinesiophobia, pain catastrophizing, and global perceived effect 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after randomization.

Limitations

Therapists and patients will not be blinded.

Conclusions

This will be the first study to investigate different weekly frequencies of treatment sessions for nonspecific low back pain. The results of this study will contribute to a better definition of treatment programs for this population.
Outbreak of Salmonella Enteritidis phage type 13a infection in Sweden linked to imported dried-vegetable spice mixes, December 2014 to July 2015
Authors: Jernberg C , Hjertqvist M , Sundborger C , Castro E , Löfdahl M , Pääjärvi A , Sundqvist L , Löf E
Published: August 2015

From 24 December to 24 July 2015, 174 cases were reported in a nationwide salmonellosis outbreak in Sweden: 108 cases were connected to a single restaurant. A spice mix, containing dried vegetables from the restaurant tested positive for the outbreak strain. Additional spice mixes with similar content from different suppliers also tested positive. The outbreak investigation suggests there could be a risk of contaminated products being also on the market in other countries.
Risk factors for sporadic listeriosis in the Netherlands, 2008 to 2013
Authors: Friesema I H , Kuiling S , van der Ende A , Heck M E , Spanjaard L , van Pelt W
Published: August 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Ross River virus disease in two Dutch travellers returning from Australia, February to April 2015
Authors: Reusken C , Cleton N , Medonça Melo M , Visser C , GeurtsvanKessel C , Bloembergen P , Koopmans M , Schmidt-Chanasit J , van Genderen P
Published: August 2015

We report two cases of Ross River virus (RRV) infection in Dutch travellers who visited Australia during February to April 2015. These cases coincided with the largest recorded outbreak of RRV disease in Australia since 1996. This report serves to create awareness among physicians to consider travel-related RRV disease in differential diagnosis of patients with fever, arthralgia and/or rash returning from the South Pacific area, and to promote awareness among professionals advising travellers to this region.
Age-related prevalence of cross-reactive antibodies against influenza A(H3N2) variant virus, Germany, 2003 to 2010
Authors: Blümel B , Schweiger B , Dehnert M , Buda S , Reuss A , Czogiel I , Kamtsiuris P , Schlaud M , Poethko-Müller C , Thamm M , Haas W
Published: August 2015

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Kinetic Texts: From Performance to Poetry
Authors: Cornish Matt
Published: August 2015

abstract:

Text often feels irrelevant in the performances of the German freie Szene, or free-scene, which, in contrast to the country’s state-supported repertory theatre system, enables rehearsal processes that do not begin with plays. Taking seriously the literary aspects of the apparently meaningless texts of the free-scene and engaging with W. B. Worthen, Hans-Thies Lehmann, Joseph Roach, and Diana Taylor, the article proposes that we distinguish between “playtexts” and “kinetic texts.” Kinetic texts – texts in motion – neither represent performance, nor encourage representation in theatrical presentations. They consist of what is generally considered superfluous to a text: marginalia, commentary, interruptions. Using the kinetic text concept, the author examines three performances from the free-scene, by She She Pop, Showcase Beat Le Mot, and Gob Squad. With particular focus on Alles [Everything] (2011) by Showcase Beat Le Mot, the article shows how text is essential to the experience of the performance, finding poetry where we assume there is none. Finally, the article investigates the practical and political problems in trying to print kinetic texts.
Robert M. Dowling, Eugene O’Neill: A Life in Four Acts
Authors: Pettit Alexander
Published: August 2015

ABSTRACT:

Robert M. Dowling’s timely biography of Eugene O’Neill, animated by extensive archival research and characterized by accessible writing, should appeal to specialists and non-specialists alike.
Mary Luckhurst and Emilie Morin, eds., Theatre and Ghosts: Materiality, Performance and Modernity
Authors: Sofer Andrew
Published: August 2015

ABSTRACT:

A collection of eleven essays on theatre and ghosts in modernity, with an introduction that opens up a dialogue between theatre studies and spectrality studies. The scholarship is fresh and key scholars are represented.
Paige A. McGinley, Staging the Blues: From Tent Shows to Tourism
Authors: Adelt Ulrich
Published: August 2015

ABSTRACT:

Staging the Blues is the first sustained effort to study the performative aspects of blues and its important connections to theatricality. Through case studies ranging from early, classic blues singers to contemporary blues tourism in Mississippi, McGinley gives centre stage to an aspect of the genre that has been marginalized by other scholars.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the subthalamic nucleus for deep brain stimulation
Authors: Chandran Arjun S. , Bynevelt Michael , Lind Christopher R. P.
Published: August 2015

The subthalamic nucleus (STN) is one of the most important stereotactic targets in neurosurgery, and its accurate imaging is crucial. With improving MRI sequences there is impetus for direct targeting of the STN. High-quality, distortion-free images are paramount. Image reconstruction techniques appear to show the greatest promise in balancing the issue of geometrical distortion and STN edge detection. Existing spin echo- and susceptibility-based MRI sequences are compared with new image reconstruction methods. Quantitative susceptibility mapping is the most promising technique for stereotactic imaging of the STN.
Validation of a noninvasive test routinely used in otology for the diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid shunt malfunction in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Sakka Laurent , Chomicki Alexandre , Gabrillargues Jean , Khalil Toufic , Chazal Jean , Avan Paul
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Ventriculoperitoneal shunting is the first-line treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus. Noninvasive auditory tests based on recorded otoacoustic emissions were assessed, as currently used for universal neonatal hearing screenings, for the diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid shunt malfunction. The test was designed based on previous works, which demonstrated that an intracranial pressure change induces a proportional, characteristic, otoacoustic-emission phase shift.

METHODS

Forty-four patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (23 idiopathic and 21 secondary cases) were included in this prospective observational study. The male:female sex ratio was 1.44, the age range was 21–87 years (mean age 64.3 years), and the range of the follow-up period was 1–3 years (mean 20 months). Patients were implanted with a Sophy SU8 adjustable-pressure valve as the ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The phase shifts of otoacoustic emissions in response to body tilt were measured preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at 3–6 months, 7–15 months, 16–24 months, and more than 24 months postoperatively. Three groups were enrolled: Group 1, 19 patients who required no valve opening-pressure adjustment; Group 2, 18 patients who required valve opening-pressure adjustments; and Group 3, 7 patients who required valve replacement.

RESULTS

In Group 1, phase shift, which was positive before surgery, became steadily negative after surgery and during the follow-up. In Group 2, phase shift, which was positive before surgery, became negative immediately after surgery and increasingly negative after a decrease in the valve-opening pressure. In Group 3, phase shift was positive in 6 cases and slightly negative in 1 case before revision, but after revision phase shift became significantly negative in all cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Otoacoustic emissions noninvasively reflect cerebrospinal fluid shunt function and are impacted by valve-opening pressure adjustments. Otoacoustic emissions consistently diagnosed shunt malfunction and predicted the need for surgical revision. The authors’ diagnostic test, which can be repeated without risk or discomfort by an unskilled operator, may address the crucial need of detecting valve dysfunction in patients with poor clinical outcome after shunt surgery.
Failed microvascular decompression surgery for hemifacial spasm due to persistent neurovascular compression: an analysis of reoperations
Authors: Bigder Mark Gregory , Kaufmann Anthony M.
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Microvascular decompression (MVD) surgery for hemifacial spasm (HFS) is potentially curative. The findings at repeat MVD in patients with persistent or recurrent HFS were analyzed with the aim to identify factors that may improve surgical outcomes.

METHODS

Intraoperative findings were determined from review of dictated operative reports and operative diagrams for patients who underwent repeat MVD after prior surgery elsewhere. Clinical follow-up was obtained from the hospital and clinic records, as well as telephone questionnaires.

RESULTS

Among 845 patients who underwent MVD performed by the senior author, 12 had been referred after prior MVD for HFS performed elsewhere. Following repeat MVD, all patients improved and complete spasm resolution was described by 11 of 12 patients after a mean follow-up of 91 ± 55 months (range 28–193). Complications were limited to 1 patient with aggravation of preexisting hearing loss and mild facial weakness and 1 patient with aseptic meningitis without sequelae. Significant factors that may have contributed to the failure of the first surgery included retromastoid craniectomies that did not extend laterally to the sigmoid sinus or inferiorly to the posterior fossa floor in 11 of 12 patients and a prior surgical approach that focused on the cisternal portion of the facial nerve in 9 of 12 patients. In all cases, significant persistent neurovascular compression (NVC) was evident and alleviated more proximally on the facial root exit zone (fREZ).

CONCLUSIONS

Most HFS patients will achieve spasm relief with thorough alleviation of NVC of the fREZ, which extends from the pontomedullary sulcus root exit point to the Obersteiner-Redlich transition zone.
Thoracic primary central nervous system melanoma and lumbar schwannoma of complex neurocristopathy: case report
Authors: Chance Aaron , Liu Jesse J. , Raskin Jeffrey S. , Zherebitskiy Viktor , Gultekin Sakir H. , Raslan Ahmed M.
Published: August 2015

Complex neurocristopathy, a disorder resulting from the aberrant proliferation of tissues derived from neural crest cells, has been previously reported in 2 patients, both involving ophthalmic melanoma and other tumors. One patient had a periorbital neurofibroma, sphenoid wing meningioma, and choroid juxtapapillary meningioma. The other patient had a choroidal melanoma and an optic nerve sheath meningioma. The authors describe clinical and pathological findings in a patient who underwent resection of 2 distinct lesions: primary CNS melanoma at T-12 and an L-5 schwannoma. Clinical and histopathological findings of the case are reviewed. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first patient to present with complex neurocristopathy involving both a spinal melanoma and schwannoma.
The relationship between isokinetic and isometric knee muscle strength and maximal step-up height after stroke: A pilot study
Authors: Carlsson Håkan , Lexell Jan , Brogårdh Christina
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: A novel way to evaluate muscle strength and functioning in the lower limbs is to measure how high a person could step up on a platform, the so called Maximal Step-up Test (MST). Studies of healthy persons and overweight women have shown that the maximal step-up height(MSH) is associated with both muscle strength and physical function, but no study has assessed persons after stroke.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between isokinetic and isometric knee muscle strength and maximal step-up height after stroke.

METHODS: A convenience sample of 21 ambulatory persons with stroke(13 men and eight women; mean age 63 ± 12 years; mean time since stroke onset 26 ± 36 months). Isokinetic concentric knee extension and knee flexion strength at 60°/s and isometric knee extension strength at 90° were measured for both lower limbs with a Biodex dynamometer. Maximal step-up height was measured using a 40 cm × 60 cm platform, which could be raised from 3 cm to 45 cm with 3 cm intervals. The relationship between knee muscle strength (normalized to body weight) and the maximal step-up height was analysed with the Pearson's correlation coefficient (r).

RESULTS: There were significant but only moderate relationships between the paretic isokinetic knee extension, and flexion, strength and maximal step-up height, r= 0.49; p < 0.05, and r= 0.57; p < 0.01, respectively.

CONCLUSION: These moderate relationships indicate that muscle weakness is only partially associated with maximal step-up height after stroke. The MST may therefore have limited value in the assessment of muscle strength after stroke.
The effect of training of the non-dominant knee muscles on ipsi- and contralateral strength gains
Authors: Abazović Ensar , Kovačević Erol , Kovač Siniša , Bradić Josipa
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Although transfer of unilateral training has been quite widely explored, few studies have focused on gains achieved due to concentric isokinetic training of the non-dominant side.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the effects of unilateral non-dominant (ND) isokinetic knee extension and flexion training at 60°/s on ipsilateral and contralateral knee extension and flexion peak moment (PM) in active female population as well investigate the speed specificity nature of this protocol.

METHODS: Thirty female were divided into two groups: experimental and control. The experimental group trained concentrically the ND flexors and extensors at 60°/s according to the following protocol: 5-6 reps X 2-4 sets X 3d X 4w at 100% effort while PM at pre- and post-training was tested concentrically at 60 and 180°/s.

RESULTS: Significant (p< 0.05) increases in the extensors and flexors PM peak moment in both the trained and untrained limb were noted in the experimental group, ranging 19-27% and 12-17%, respectively. The effects were speed specific in the trained but not in untrained limb. No changes were noted in the PM of the control group.

CONCLUSIONS: In physically active female population, concentric isokinetic training of the ND knee extensors and flexors at 60°/s significantly increase the strength of these muscles at the trained and untrained limb. This cross-education was not speed specific and therefore may obviate the need to use a multiple speed protocol.
Balance training using Pedalo equipment for improving balance and fear of falling in elderly people: A preliminary study
Authors: Lee GyuChang
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Falls are a major health problem among the elderly, and balance exercises can improve balance in the elderly and help reduce the risk of falls.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of balance training using Pedalo equipment on balance and fear of falling in elderly people.

METHODS: Nineteen elderly people participated in this study center. Subjects performed balance training using four types of Pedalo equipment: the Stabilizer Therapy, Reha-Wipp, Reha-Bar, and Spring Board, for 30 minutes, 3 times a week for 6 weeks. The Force platform, the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test were used to evaluate balance function, and the Fall Efficacy Scale (FES) was used to evaluate fear of falling.

RESULTS: Following six weeks of balance training using the Pedalo equipment, path length and sway velocity in both the eyes open and closed conditions were significantly improved compared with those at baseline (p< 0.05), as well as on BBS, TUG, and FES (p< 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Balance training on the Pedalo equipment appears to significantly improve balance in elderly people and reduces their anxiety regarding falls. We conclude that use of such equipment may help elderly people improve their balance and consequently reduce their risk of falling.
Really, really rapid prototyping: Flash builds and user-driven innovation at JSTOR Labs
Authors: Humphreys Alex
Published: August 2015

Abstract

To build a platform for (high, sustainable) use, we need to know what will thrill users. Finding the right concoction of technology, functionality and design to delight users takes a thousand decisions, pivots and changes. The JSTOR Labs team has been using Flash Builds – high-intensity, short-burst, user-driven development efforts – in order to prototype new ideas and get to a user saying “Wow” in as little as a week. In this paper, a distillation of a presentation I gave at NFAIS 2015, I will describe how we have done this, highlighting the partnerships, skills, tools and content that help us innovate.
Today’s college students: Skimmers, scanners and efficiency-seekers
Authors: Lawrence Kate
Published: August 2015

Abstract

This paper examines the research habits and behaviors of today’s college students. With each technological evolution, students develop increasingly efficient strategies, becoming experts in time management for personal and academic purposes. With demands for their time that include school assignments, social media and ‘me time’, today’s students are rejecting previously-held beliefs about how to conduct research and forging their own unique path towards scholarship. Starting with uncovering what one student called “the Google and Wikipedia cat and mouse game”, a team of EBSCO researchers discovered that for academic research, traditional rules don’t apply, and strategies for conducting research are as diverse as the students themselves.
Professional medical social networks: An evolving source of professional knowledge and content
Authors: Camlek Victor
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Healthcare Professional Social Networks (HCPSNs) have become a global resource. There are numerous networks visible in countries around the world. This research looks at a selected sample of global HCPSNs with a particular focus on the potential of these emerging networks to become a growing source of professional content. The research evaluates the content offerings of six networks, Sermo, Doximity, QuantiaMD, Neuros, DXY and Networks in Health. First, there is a brief discussion of trends in the membership dynamics of these organizations. The next section summarizes the content services available from each network at a high level. The findings reveal that HCPSNs offer their members an opportunity to be content producers, as well as an available audience for various forms of educational and promotional forms of content. The presentation offers a view of the impact of these networks on the STM publishing industry, including professional medical societies.
Caught in the middle: Scholars, publishers, librarians and information revolutions today and tomorrow
Authors: Shumaker David
Published: August 2015

Abstract

All of us – scholars, publishers, librarians – are being pulled apart by the forces of two concurrent revolutions in information access and processing. Every day, we are reminded that Stewart Brand was right: “Information wants to be free, and information wants to be expensive”. Meanwhile, smart appliances and self-driving cars show the way to the Internet of Things in which information is not just for human consumption, while people crowdsource, crowdfund, and share everything from lolcats to regime change. These twin revolutions have already driven fundamental changes in publishing and in library services, and more changes will be coming. Meanwhile, the scholar’s limited time and attention are overwhelmed by the rapid changes taking place. By shifting their focus to the scholar’s personal information management needs, librarians and publishers can collaborate to deploy new solutions and improve the scholar’s information environment.
Protocols.io: Reducing the knowledge that perishes because we do not publish it
Authors: Teytelman Leonid , Stoliartchouk Alexei
Published: August 2015

Abstract

The way life scientists communicate has hardly changed since the days of Gregor Mendel. Even though mobile and Internet technology has transformed a wide array of communication channels, academic publishing has largely resisted change. As a consequence, it is impossible to stay up-to-date with the rapidly evolving methodology in the life sciences. Most corrections and optimizations of previously-published methods are never properly communicated beyond the confines of a given laboratory. Researchers are constantly re-discovering knowledge simply due to the lack of an efficient system to communicate such findings. Protocols.io is a central platform that leverages modern web and mobile technology to facilitate easy discovery and sharing of this scientific knowledge.
Library evolution, trends and the road ahead from the EBSCO lens
Authors: Collins Tim
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Much has changed during my thirty years in the information industry. I will review changes in the areas of end-user experience, business models, library workflow, and competitive landscape and describe what I see as the key drivers behind these changes, focusing on the academic research process. I will share my perspective on the role that EBSCO has played in these changes and the evolution of the marketplace. I will also share my thoughts on some changes that I think we will see in the future.
Satisfying user demands and the impact on policy
Authors: Kenneally Christopher , Russell Judith , Whittaker Martha , O’Leary Brian F.
Published: August 2015

Abstract

Satisfying user needs and expectations requires that information polices be current, flexible, and in alignment with those needs and expectations. Publishers and librarians must develop the policies, practices, and procedures that will facilitate – not inhibit – the use of their information and maximize its value to the user. They need to move beyond the “this is how we have always done it” mindset and re-evaluate policies on a regular basis. This interactive panel discussion was organized to take a look at some of the issues that concern content providers and librarians, such as the re-use, replication and sharing of data, social media, data mining, and others.