bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing a multifaceted survivorship care plan to meet the information and communication needs of breast cancer patients and their family physicians: results of a qualitative pilot study
Authors: Haq Rashida , Heus Lineke , Baker Natalie A , Dastur Daisy , Leung Fok-Han , Leung Eman , Li Benjamin , Vu Kathy , Parsons Janet A
Published: July 2013

Background

Following the completion of treatment and as they enter the follow-up phase, breast cancer patients (BCPs) often recount feeling ‘lost in transition’, and are left with many questions concerning how their ongoing care and monitoring for recurrence will be managed. Family physicians (FPs) also frequently report feeling ill-equipped to provide follow-up care to BCPs. In this three-phase qualitative pilot study we designed, implemented and evaluated a multi-faceted survivorship care plan (SCP) to address the information needs of BCPs at our facility and of their FPs.

Methods

In Phase 1 focus groups and individual interviews were conducted with 35 participants from three stakeholder groups (BCPs, FPs and oncology specialist health care providers (OHCPs)), to identify specific information needs. An SCP was then designed based on these findings, consisting of both web-based and paper-based tools (Phase 2). For Phase 3, both sets of tools were subsequently evaluated via focus groups and interviews with 26 participants. Interviews and focus groups were audio taped, transcribed and content analysed for emergent themes and patterns.

Results

In Phase 1 patients commented that web-based, paper-based and human resources components were desirable in any SCP. Patients did not focus exclusively on the post-treatment period, but instead spoke of evolving needs throughout their cancer journey. FPs indicated that any tools to support them must distill important information in a user-friendly format. In Phase 2, a pilot SCP was subsequently designed, consisting of both web-based and paper-based materials tailored specifically to the needs of BCPs as well as FPs. During Phase 3 (evaluation) BCPs indicated that the SCP was effective at addressing many of their needs, and offered suggestions for future improvements. Both patients and FPs found the pilot SCP to be an improvement from the previous standard of care. Patients perceived the quality of the BCP-FP relationship as integral to their comfort with FPs assuming follow-up responsibilities.

Conclusions

This pilot multi-component SCP shows promise in addressing the information needs of BCPs and the FPs who care for them. Next steps include refinement of the different SCP components, further evaluation (including usability testing), and planning for more extensive implementation.
Direct observation of CD4 T cell morphologies and their cross-sectional traction force derivation on quartz nanopillar substrates using focused ion beam technique
Authors: Kim Dong-Joo , Kim Gil-Sung , Hyung Jung-Hwan , Lee Won-Yong , Hong Chang-Hee , Lee Sang-Kwon
Published: July 2013

Direct observations of the primary mouse CD4 T cell morphologies, e.g., cell adhesion and cell spreading by culturing CD4 T cells in a short period of incubation (e.g., 20 min) on streptavidin-functionalized quartz nanopillar arrays (QNPA) using a high-content scanning electron microscopy method were reported. Furthermore, we first demonstrated cross-sectional cell traction force distribution of surface-bound CD4 T cells on QNPA substrates by culturing the cells on top of the QNPA and further analysis in deflection of underlying QNPA via focused ion beam-assisted technique.
Heterogeneous susceptibility of circulating SIV isolate capsids to HIV-interacting factors
Authors: Mamede João I , Sitbon Marc , Battini Jean-Luc , Courgnaud Valérie
Published: July 2013

Background

Many species of non-human primates in Africa are naturally infected by simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIV) and humans stand at the forefront of exposure to these viruses in Sub-Saharan Africa. Cross-species transmission and adaptation of SIV to humans have given rise to human immunodeficiency viruses (HIV-1 and HIV-2) on twelve accountable, independent occasions. However, the determinants contributing to a simian-to-human lasting transmission are not fully understood. Following entry, viral cores are released into the cytoplasm and become the principal target of host cellular factors. Here, we evaluated cellular factors likely to be involved in potential new SIV cross-species transmissions. We investigated the interactions of capsids from naturally circulating SIV isolates with both HIV-1 restricting (i.e. TRIM5 proteins) and facilitating (i.e. cyclophilin A and nucleopore-associated Nup358/RanBP2 and Nup153) factors in single-round infectivity assays that reproduce early stages of the viral life-cycle.

Results

We show that human TRIM5α is unlikely to prevent cross-species transmission of any SIV we tested and observed that the SIV CA-CypA interaction is a widespread but not a universal feature. Moreover, entry in the nucleus of different SIV appeared to follow pathways that do not necessarily recruit Nup358/RanBP2 or Nup153, and this regardless of their interaction with CypA. Nevertheless, we found that, like HIV-1, human-adapted HIV-2 infection was dependent on Nup358/RanBP2 and Nup153 interactions for optimal infection. Furthermore, we found that, unlike HIV CA, SIV CA did not require a direct interaction with the Cyp-like domain of Nup358/RanBP2 to carry out successful infection.

Conclusions

Circulating SIV present a variety of phenotypes with regard to CA-interacting restricting or facilitating factors. Altogether, we unveiled unidentified pathways for SIV CA, which could also be exploited by HIV in different cellular contexts, to drive entry into the nucleus. Our findings warrant a closer evaluation of other potential defenses against circulating SIV.
Differences in learning rates for item and associative memories between amnestic mild cognitive impairment and healthy controls
Authors: Wang Pengyun , Li Juan , Li Huijie , Zhang Shouzi
Published: July 2013

Background

It has been established that the overall performance of associative memory was disproportionately impaired in contrast to item memory in aMCI (Amnestic mild cognitive impairment) patients, but little is known about the specific aspects of the memory process that show differences between aMCI and healthy controls. By comparing an item-item associative learning test with an individual item learning test, the present study investigated whether the rate of learning was slower in associative memory than in item memory in aMCI. Furthermore, we examined whether deficits in intertrial acquisition and consolidation contributed to the potential disproportionate impairments in the learning rate of associative memory for aMCI patients. In addition, we further explored whether the aMCI-discriminative power of the associative memory test increases more than that of the item memory test when the number of learning-test trials increases.

Methods

A group of 40 aMCI patients and 40 matched control participants were administered a standardized item memory test (Auditory Verbal Learning Test, AVLT) and a standardized associative memory test (Paired Associative Learning Test, PALT), as well as other neuropsychological tests and clinical assessments.

Results

The results indicated that the learning rate deficits in aMCI patients were more obvious for associative memory than for item memory and that the deficits resulted from impairments in both intertrial acquisition and consolidation. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic curve and logistical regression analysis revealed that the discriminative power of the associative memory test for aMCI was larger than that of the item memory test, especially with more than one learning-test trials.

Conclusions

Due to more deficits in learning rate of associative memory than that of item memory, the discriminative power for aMCI tended to be larger in associative memory than in item memory when the number of learning-test trials increased. It is suggested that associative memory tests with multiple trials may be particularly useful for early detection of aMCI.
Risk factors for the transmission of foot-and-mouth disease during the 2010 outbreak in Japan: a case–control study
Authors: Muroga Norihiko , Kobayashi Sota , Nishida Takeshi , Hayama Yoko , Kawano Takaaki , Yamamoto Takehisa , Tsutsui Toshiyuki
Published: July 2013

Background

In 2010, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) occurred for the first time in a decade in Japan. Movement or shipment of people and animals around infected farms was restricted; however these contingency measures proved insufficient to prevent FMD spread. Consequently, a total of 292 farms were confirmed as infected during this outbreak. We conducted a case–control study to identify the risk factors associated with FMD transmission between farms during these restrictions. As there was discordance in the control measures taken, risk factors were examined separately for two areas. Analyses were also performed separately for cattle and pig farms given their different infectivity and susceptibility.

Results

For cattle farms in the movement restriction area, the odds of having the factor ‘farm equipment was shared with other farms’ was significantly higher for case farms than for control farms. For cattle farms in the shipment restriction area, the odds of having the factors ‘feed transport vehicles visited the farm’ and ‘staff of livestock-related companies visited the farm’ were significantly higher on case farms than control farms. In pig farms in the movement restriction area, the odds of having factor ‘farm staff commuted from outside’ was 20 times higher for case farms than control farms. In addition, case farms were less likely to have the factors ‘fattening farm’ and ‘barn has physical barriers’ compared with control farms.

Conclusions

In the movement restriction area, the disease was likely to spread regardless of the movement of people and vehicles, and physical barriers were found to be a protective factor. Therefore, physical barriers from the surrounding environments seemed to prevent farms from being infected. Conversely, in the shipment restriction area, movement of people and vehicles was strongly associated with disease spread. These results allow a better understanding of the risk factors associated with FMD transmission and are useful to enhance future preventive measures against transmission during FMD outbreaks.
Creation of RTOG compliant patient CT-atlases for automated atlas based contouring of local regional breast and high-risk prostate cancers
Authors: Velker Vikram M , Rodrigues George B , Dinniwell Robert , Hwee Jeremiah , Louie Alexander V
Published: July 2013

Background

Increasing use of IMRT to treat breast and prostate cancers at high risk of regional nodal spread relies on accurate contouring of targets and organs at risk, which is subject to significant inter- and intra-observer variability. This study sought to evaluate the performance of an atlas based deformable registration algorithm to create multi-patient CT based atlases for automated contouring.

Methods

Breast and prostate multi-patient CT atlases (n = 50 and 14 respectively) were constructed to be consistent with RTOG consensus contouring guidelines. A commercially available software algorithm was evaluated by comparison of atlas-predicted contours against manual contours using Dice Similarity coefficients.

Results

High levels of agreement were demonstrated for prediction of OAR contours of lungs, heart, femurs, and minor editing required for the CTV breast/chest wall. CTVs generated for axillary nodes, supraclavicular nodes, prostate, and pelvic nodes demonstrated modest agreement. Small and highly variable structures, such as internal mammary nodes, lumpectomy cavity, rectum, penile bulb, and seminal vesicles had poor agreement.

Conclusions

A method to construct and validate performance of CT-based multi-patient atlases for automated atlas based auto-contouring has been demonstrated, and can be adopted for clinical use in planning of local regional breast and high-risk prostate radiotherapy.
DCJ-indel and DCJ-substitution distances with distinct operation costs
Authors: da Silva Poly H , Machado Raphael , Dantas Simone , Braga Marília DV
Published: July 2013

Background

Classical approaches to compute the genomic distance are usually limited to genomes with the same content and take into consideration only rearrangements that change the organization of the genome (i.e. positions and orientation of pieces of DNA, number and type of chromosomes, etc.), such as inversions, translocations, fusions and fissions. These operations are generically represented by the double-cut and join (DCJ) operation. The distance between two genomes, in terms of number of DCJ operations, can be computed in linear time. In order to handle genomes with distinct contents, also insertions and deletions of fragments of DNA – named indels – must be allowed. More powerful than an indel is a substitution of a fragment of DNA by another fragment of DNA. Indels and substitutions are called content-modifying operations. It has been shown that both the DCJ-indel and the DCJ-substitution distances can also be computed in linear time, assuming that the same cost is assigned to any DCJ or content-modifying operation.

Results

In the present study we extend the DCJ-indel and the DCJ-substitution models, considering that the content-modifying cost is distinct from and upper bounded by the DCJ cost, and show that the distance in both models can still be computed in linear time. Although the triangular inequality can be disrupted in both models, we also show how to efficiently fix this problem a posteriori.
Extracranial glioblastoma with synchronous metastases in the lung, pulmonary lymph nodes, vertebrae, cervical muscles and epidural space in a young patient - case report and review of literature
Authors: Blume Christian , von Lehe Marec , van Landeghem Frank , Greschus Susanne , Boström Jan
Published: July 2013

Background

Extraneural and extracranial metastases of glioblastoma (GB) are very rarely reported in the literature. They occur in only 0.2% of all GB patients.

Case presentation

We present a 40 year old caucasian male with secondary GB and first diagnosis of an astrocytoma world health organisation (WHO) grade II through stereotactic biopsy in 2006. He presented a new hemiparesis and a progress of the known mass lesion in 2008. Subtotal tumor resection was performed and the histological examination verified a GB. After combined radio- and chemotherapy the adjuvant temozolomide therapy was not started because of non-compliance.

In 2011 a second local relapse was resected and 4 month later the patient presented a fast progressing tetraparesis. Cervical CT and MRI scan showed a mass lesion infiltrating the fifth and sixth vertebra with infiltration of the spinal canal and large paravertebral tumor masses. Emergency surgery was performed. By additional screening further metastases were detected in the thoracal and lumbal spine and surprisingly also in the lung and pulmonary lymphnodes. Palliative radio- and chemotherapy of the pulmonal lesions was completed, further antitumor therapy was rejected. The patient died 10 months after diagnosis of the extraneural metastases.

Conclusion

Especially young “long-term-survivors” seem to have a higher risk of extraneural metastasis from a GB and appropriate staging should be performed in these cases.
Geometric morphometric footprint analysis of young women
Authors: Domjanic Jacqueline , Fieder Martin , Seidler Horst , Mitteroecker Philipp
Published: July 2013

Background

Most published attempts to quantify footprint shape are based on a small number of measurements. We applied geometric morphometric methods to study shape variation of the complete footprint outline in a sample of 83 adult women.

Methods

The outline of the footprint, including the toes, was represented by a comprehensive set of 85 landmarks and semilandmarks. Shape coordinates were computed by Generalized Procrustes Analysis.

Results

The first four principal components represented the major axes of variation in foot morphology: low‐arched versus high‐arched feet, long and narrow versus short and wide feet, the relative length of the hallux, and the relative length of the forefoot. These shape features varied across the measured individuals without any distinct clusters or discrete types of footprint shape. A high body mass index (BMI) was associated with wide and flat feet, and a high frequency of wearing high‐heeled shoes was associated with a larger forefoot area of the footprint and a relatively long hallux. Larger feet had an increased length‐to‐width ratio of the footprint, a lower‐arched foot, and longer toes relative to the remaining foot. Footprint shape differed on average between left and right feet, and the variability of footprint asymmetry increased with BMI.

Conclusions

Foot shape is affected by lifestyle factors even in a sample of young women (median age 23 years). Geometric morphometrics proved to be a powerful tool for the detailed analysis of footprint shape that is applicable in various scientific disciplines, including forensics, orthopedics, and footwear design.
Micro-stratigraphical investigation on corrosion layers in ancient Bronze artefacts by scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive spectrometry and optical microscopy
Authors: Oudbashi Omid , Emami Seyed Mohammadamin , Ahmadi Hossein , Davami Parviz
Published: July 2013

Background

Archaeological metallic artefacts buried in soils deteriorate by means of various environmental as well as internal factors and mechanisms over time such as change in composition and microstructure of metal and corrosive factors due to long-term burial environment. Corrosion in metals occurs in different morphologies and results in different types of corrosion products based on soil composition. Identification of corrosion mechanisms and morphology in archaeological metals can help conservators to characterize deterioration occurred in metals and make decisions to protect artefacts about preventing further deterioration. In archaeological bronzes, different layers may form on the surface of artefacts and their composition, depth and shape depends on factors noted above.

Results

In this paper, results of investigation carried out on ancient bronzes discovered from Haft Tappeh archaeological site, southwestern Iran, are presented. The ancient bronze samples are dated to the Middle Elamite period about 14th century BC. Some of the Haft Tappeh bronze artefacts corroded completely and a multilayer structure has formed. To study the stratigraphy of corrosion layers and their composition, some bronze artefacts have been analyzed using SEM-EDS (Scanning Electron Microscopy Energy Dispersive Spectrometry) and Optical Microscopy analyses. The results show difference between the amount of Cu and Sn in layers that may follow from copper leaching from inner layers and formation of copper trihydroxychlorides because of bronze disease.

Conclusions

Based on the results, it can be concluded that SEM-EDS analysis and Microscopy observations can help to characterize compositional difference between corrosion layers in the micro scale as well as corrosion mechanisms occurring in archaeological metal artefacts.
Modeling and prediction of cytotoxicity of artemisinin for treatment of the breast cancer by using artificial neural networks
Authors: Qaderi Abdolhossein , Dadgar Neda , Mansouri Hamidreza , Alavi Seyed Ebrahim , Koohi Moftakhari Esfahani Maedeh , Akbarzadeh Azim
Published: July 2013

While artemisinin is known as anticancer medication with favorable remedial effects, its side effects must not be neglected. In order to reduce such side effects and increase artemisinin therapeutic index, nano technology has been considered as a new approach. Liposome preparation is supposed to be one of the new methods of drug delivery. To prepare the desired nanoliposome, certain proportions of phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol and artemisinin are mixed together. Besides, in order to achieve more stability, the formulation was pegylated by polyethylene glycol 2000 (PEG 2000). Mean diameter of nanoliposomes was determined by means of Zeta sizer. Encapsulation was calculated 96.02% in nanoliposomal and 91.62% in pegylated formulation. Compared to pegylated formulation, the percent of released drug in nanoliposomal formulation was more. In addition, this study reveals that cytotoxicity effect of pegylated nanoliposomal artemisinin was more than nanoliposomal artemisinin. Since artificial neural network shows high possibility of nonlinear modulation, it is used to predict cytotoxicity effect in this study, which can precisely indicate the cytotoxicity and IC50 of anticancer drugs.
Diarrhoea in the ICU: respective contribution of feeding and antibiotics
Authors: Thibault Ronan , Graf Séverine , Clerc Aurélie , Delieuvin Nathalie , Heidegger Claudia Paula , Pichard Claude
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Diarrhoea is frequently reported in the ICU. Little is known about diarrhoea incidence and the role of the different risk factors alone or in combination. This prospective observational study aims at determining diarrhoea incidence and risk factors in the first 2 weeks of ICU stay, focusing on the respective contribution of feeding, antibiotics, and antifungal drugs.

Methods

Out of 422 patients consecutively admitted into a mixed medical–surgical ICU during a 2-month period, 278 patients were included according to the following criteria: ICU stay >24 hours, no admission diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding, and absence of enterostomy or colostomy. Diarrhoea was defined as at least three liquid stools per day. Diarrhoea episodes occurring during the first day in the ICU, related to the use of laxative drugs or Clostridium difficile infection, were not analysed. Multivariate and stratified analyses were performed to determine diarrhoea risk factors, and the impact of the combination of enteral nutrition (EN) with antibiotics or antifungal drugs.

Results

A total of 1,595 patient-days were analysed. Diarrhoea was observed in 38 patients (14%) and on 83 patient-days (incidence rate: 5.2 per 100 patient-days). The median day of diarrhoea onset was the sixth day, and 89% of patients had ≤4 diarrhoea days. The incidence of C. difficile infection was 0.7%. Diarrhoea risk factors were EN covering >60% of energy target (relative risk = 1.75 (1.02 to 3.01)), antibiotics (relative risk = 3.64 (1.26 to 10.51)) and antifungal drugs (relative risk = 2.79 (1.16 to 6.70)). EN delivery per se was not a diarrhoea risk factor. In patients receiving >60% of energy target by EN, diarrhoea risk was increased by the presence of antibiotics (relative risk = 4.8 (2.1 to 13.7)) or antifungal drugs (relative risk = 5.0 (2.8 to 8.7)).

Conclusion

Diarrhoea incidence during the first 2 weeks in a mixed population of patients in a tertiary ICU is 14%. Diarrhoea risk factors are EN covering >60% of energy target, use of antibiotics, and use of antifungal drugs. The combination of EN covering >60% of energy target with antibiotics or antifungal drugs increases the incidence of diarrhoea.
The control of CD8+ T cell responses is preserved in perforin-deficient mice and released by depletion of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells
Authors: Ataera Haley , Simkins Helen M A , Hyde Evelyn , Yang Jianping , Hermans Ian F , Petersen Troels R , Ronchese Franca
Published: July 2013

Immune suppression by Treg has been demonstrated in a number of models, but the mechanisms of this suppression are only partly understood. Recent work has suggested that Tregs may suppress by directly killing immune cell populations in vivo in a perforin- and granzyme B-dependent manner. To establish whether perforin is necessary for the regulation of immune responses in vivo, we examined OVA-specific CD8+ T cell responses in WT and PKO mice immunized with OVA and α-GalCer and the expansion of WT OT-I CD8+ T cells adoptively transferred into WT or PKO mice immunized with DC-OVA. We observed similar expansion, phenotype, and effector function of CD8+ T cells in WT and PKO mice, suggesting that CD8+ T cells were subjected to a similar amount of regulation in the two mouse strains. In addition, when WT and PKO mice were depleted of Tregs by anti-CD25 mAb treatment before DC-OVA immunization, CD8+ T cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, and cytokine production were increased similarly, suggesting a comparable involvement of CD25+ Tregs in controlling T cell proliferation and effector function in these two mouse strains. These data suggest that perforin expression is not required for normal immune regulation in these models of in vivo CD8+ T cell responses induced by immunization with OVA and α-GalCer or DC-OVA.
Effects of magnetite on high-frequency ground-penetrating radar
Authors: Van Dam Remke L. , Hendrickx Jan M. H. , Cassidy Nigel J. , North Ryan E. , Dogan Mine , Borchers Brian
Published: July 2013

Large concentrations of magnetite in sedimentary deposits and soils with igneous parent material have been reported to affect geophysical sensor performance. We have undertaken the first systematic experimental effort to understand the effects of magnetite for ground-penetrating radar (GPR) characterization of the shallow subsurface. Laboratory experiments were conducted to study how homogeneous magnetite-sand mixtures and magnetite concentrated in layers affect the propagation behavior (velocity, attenuation) of high-frequency GPR waves and the reflection characteristics of a buried target. Important observations were that magnetite had a strong effect on signal velocity and reflection, at magnitudes comparable to what has been observed in small-scale laboratory experiments that measured electromagnetic properties of magnetite-silica mixtures. Magnetite also altered signal attenuation and affected the reflection characteristics of buried targets. Our results indicated important implications for several fields, including land mine detection, Martian exploration, engineering, and moisture mapping using satellite remote sensing and radiometers.
Acoustic anisotropic wavefields through perturbation theory
Authors: Alkhalifah Tariq
Published: July 2013

Solving the anisotropic acoustic wave equation numerically using finite-difference methods introduces many problems and media restriction requirements, and it rarely contributes to the ability to resolve the anisotropy parameters. Among these restrictions are the inability to handle media with [Formula: see text] and the presence of shear-wave artifacts in the solution. Both limitations do not exist in the solution of the elliptical anisotropic acoustic wave equation. Using perturbation theory in developing the solution of the anisotropic acoustic wave equation allows direct access to the desired limitation-free solutions, that is, solutions perturbed from the elliptical anisotropic background medium. It also provides a platform for parameter estimation because of the ability to isolate the wavefield dependency on the perturbed anisotropy parameters. As a result, I derive partial differential equations that relate changes in the wavefield to perturbations in the anisotropy parameters. The solutions of the perturbation equations represented the coefficients of a Taylor-series-type expansion of the wavefield as a function of the perturbed parameter, which is in this case [Formula: see text] or the tilt of the symmetry axis. The expansion with respect to the symmetry axis allows use of an acoustic transversely isotropic media with a vertical symmetry axis (VTI) kernel to estimate the background wavefield and the corresponding perturbation coefficients. The VTI extrapolation kernel is about one-fourth the cost of the transversely isotropic model with a tilt in the symmetry axis kernel. Thus, for a small symmetry axis tilt, the cost of migration using a first-order expansion can be reduced. The effectiveness of the approach was demonstrated on the Marmousi model.
Development of a Wind to Power Model for Wind Farm Power Production Forecasting
Authors: Touani Ismael , Yu Wei , Gagnon Yves , Masson Christian
Published: July 2013

The objective of this study is to develop a Wind to Power forecasting methodology where wind farm power curves are used to convert the predicted wind speeds to predicted power productions of wind farms. A methodology is proposed to develop a wind farm power curve by performing several experiments using historical wind farm power productions and wind measurements. A simple method, the Bins Method, is compared to an advanced method based on Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). It is shown that the advanced method does not have significant advantages in terms of accuracy. However, due to its flexibility on the choice of input parameters, the ANN method is best suited for studies such as the optimal selection of input parameters. For this reason, these two methods are used alternatively in this study according to the applications. The influence of different meteorological parameters on the wind farm power curve has also been investigated with the ANN method. The wind farm power curves developed in this work have been tested for the prediction of the wind power productions using forecasted wind speed data obtained from a Numerical Weather Prediction model (GEM-LAM) as input variables to the Wind to Power model. The predicted power productions compare well with those recorded at the wind farm. The proposed method is applied to a second operating wind farm to demonstrate its validity.
Use of botulinum toxin in musculoskeletal pain
Authors: Singh Jasvinder A
Published: July 2013

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a common cause of chronic pain, which is associated with a total cost of $635 billion per year in the U.S. Emerging evidence suggests an anti-nociceptive action of botulinum toxin, independent of its muscle paralyzing action. This review provides a summary of data from both non-randomized and randomized clinical studies of botulinum toxin in back pain and various osteoarticular conditions, including osteoarthritis, tennis elbow, low back pain and hand pain. Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of small sizes provide evidence of short-term efficacy of a single intra-articular injection of 100 units of botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) for the relief of pain and the improvement of both function and quality of life in patients with chronic joint pain due to arthritis. Three RCTs studied intramuscular BoNT/A for tennis elbow with one showing a significant improvement in pain relief compared with placebo, another one showing no difference from placebo, and the third finding that pain and function improvement with BoNT/A injection were similar to those obtained with surgical release. One RCT of intramuscular BoNT/A for low back pain found improvement in pain and function compared to placebo. Single RCTs using local injections of BoNT in patients with either temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain or plantar fasciitis found superior efficacy compared to placebo. One RCT of intramuscular BoNT/B in patients with hand pain and carpal tunnel syndrome found improvement in pain in both BoNT/B and placebo groups, but no significant difference between groups. Most evidence is based on small studies, but the use of BoNT is supported by a single, and sometimes up to three, RCTs for several chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions. This indicates that botulinum toxin may be a promising potential new treatment for chronic refractory musculoskeletal pain. Well-designed large clinical trials are needed.
Continuing Education Needs of Leadership Program Alumni
Authors: Fritz Susan M. , Williams Susan N. , Barbuto John E.
Published: July 2013

An assessment identifying the leadership education needs of three groups of leadership program alumni was developed through focus group interviews. Respondents (386 of 1,063 or 36%) were most interested in training on: engaging others in a common vision, inspiring others, attracting the right people for the task, and influencing others. They preferred to participate in one or two workshops per year. Face-to-face delivery was the format most preferred by respondents with distance-delivery strategies identified as the preferred means by 34% or less, and respondents preferred to pursue regional collaborations in their state. The results will be the basis for advanced leadership development training for alumni of leadership development programs offered through Cooperative Extension. It was recommended that this study be replicated with community leaders that have not participated in formal leadership programs as the basis for developing initial and advanced training needs.
The Impact of College on Students: Myths, Rational Myths, and Some Other Things That May Not Be True
Authors: Pascarella Ernest T. , Terenzini Patrick T.
Published: July 2013

Academia clings to several myths about higher education and its effect on students. This article outlines 10 of these popular myths–myths about effective teaching styles, indicators of quality education, and the value of faculty research for undergraduate education, to name a few. The authors cite extensive research calling these myths into question and challenge readers to rethink assumptions about higher education.
Rethinking Liberal Arts Skills in the New Economy
Authors: Knotts H. Gibbs
Published: July 2013

Liberal arts graduates can compete effectively for jobs in the current information-based economy. The literature overview of liberal arts advising is presented as is a discussion on the student skills needed for success in the new economy. Strategies advisors can use to help liberal arts majors develop new economy skills and specific suggestions for helping advisees market these skills to potential employers are presented.
Advising Though a Wave of Change
Authors: Fries-Britt Sharon
Published: July 2013

I was delighted to be invited as a keynote speaker for the 2007 NACADA conference in Baltimore Maryland. The conference theme, Advisors as Navigators: From Orientation to Graduation and Beyond, was very inspiring. I was stimulated by the deep commitment conveyed by it and I found myself delighted with the task of preparing my speech. I recap the themes and issues (and some stories) that I shared during my conference speech and the follow-up session. Because I rarely use a completely written text, I am somewhat disadvantaged in trying to recapture the speech verbatim. Nevertheless, I offer my observations in hopes that advisors will continue to find them useful in enhancing their lives and those of others in 2008.
Complications of arthroscopic surgery of the hip
Authors: Papavasiliou A. V. , Bardakos N. V.
Published: July 2013

Over recent years hip arthroscopic surgery has evolved into one of the most rapidly expanding fields in orthopaedic surgery. Complications are largely transient and incidences between 0.5% and 6.4% have been reported. However, major complications can and do occur. This article analyses the reported complications and makes recommendations based on the literature review and personal experience on how to minimise them.
The Manchester–Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ)
Authors: Morley D. , Jenkinson C. , Doll H. , Lavis G. , Sharp R. , Cooke P. , Dawson J.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

The Manchester–Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ) is a validated 16-item, patient-reported outcome measure for evaluating outcomes of foot or ankle surgery. The original development of the instrument identified three domains. This present study examined whether the three domains could legitimately be summed to provide a single summary index score.

Methods

The MOXFQ and Short-Form (SF)-36 were administered to 671 patients before surgery of the foot or ankle. Data from the three domains of the MOXFQ (pain, walking/standing and social interaction) were subjected to higher order factor analysis. Reliability and validity of the summary index score was assessed.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 52.8 years (sd 15.68; 18 to 89). Higher order principle components factor analysis produced one factor, accounting for 74.7% of the variance. The newly derived single index score was found to be internally reliable (α = 0.93) and valid, achieving at least moderate correlations (r ≥ 0.5, p < 0.001) with related (pain/function) domains of the SF-36.

Conclusions

Analyses indicated that data from the MOXFQ can be presented in summary form. The MOXFQ summary index score (MOXFQ-Index) provides an overall indication of the outcomes of foot and ankle surgery. Furthermore, the single index reduces the number of statistical comparisons, and hence the role of chance, when exploring MOXFQ data.
The effect of smoking on bone healing
Authors: Patel R. A. , Wilson R. F. , Patel P. A. , Palmer R. M.
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To review the systemic impact of smoking on bone healing as evidenced within the orthopaedic literature.

Methods

A protocol was established and studies were sourced from five electronic databases. Screening, data abstraction and quality assessment was conducted by two review authors. Prospective and retrospective clinical studies were included. The primary outcome measures were based on clinical and/or radiological indicators of bone healing. This review specifically focused on non-spinal orthopaedic studies.

Results

Nine tibia studies and eight other orthopaedic studies were considered for systematic review. Of these 17 studies, 13 concluded that smoking negatively influenced bone healing.

Conclusions

Smoking has a negative effect on bone healing, in terms of delayed union, nonunion and more complications.
Branded Service Encounters: Strategically Aligning Employee Behavior with the Brand Positioning
Authors: Sirianni Nancy J. , Bitner Mary Jo , Brown Stephen W. , Mandel Naomi
Published: July 2013

This research examines how branded service encounters, in which frontline service employee behavior is aligned with a firm's brand positioning, may positively affect customer responses to brands. Across two brand personality contexts, Study 1 demonstrates that employee–brand alignment increases overall brand evaluations and customer-based brand equity, with more pronounced results for unfamiliar brands. Study 2 shows that conceptual fluency underlies the effect of employee–brand alignment on overall brand evaluations for unfamiliar brands. Study 3 reveals that employee authenticity enhances the effectiveness of employee–brand alignment. Finally, a critical incident study (Study 4) extends the generalizability of these findings to a wider variety of service contexts. This research is the first to demonstrate how firms can leverage employee behavior as a brand-building advantage, particularly for new or unfamiliar brands as they establish their positioning with customers.
Mice deficient in PAPP-A show resistance to the development of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Mader Jessica R , Resch Zachary T , McLean Gary R , Mikkelsen Jakob H , Oxvig Claus , Marler Ronald J , Conover Cheryl A
Published: July 2013

We investigated pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) in diabetic nephropathy. Normal human kidney showed specific staining for PAPP-A in glomeruli, and this staining was markedly increased in diabetic kidney. To assess the possible contribution of PAPP-A in the development of diabetic nephropathy, we induced diabetes with streptozotocin in 14-month-old WT andPapp-Aknockout (KO) mice. Renal histopathology was evaluated after 4 months of stable hyperglycemia. Kidneys from diabetic WT mice showed multiple abnormalities including thickening of Bowman's capsule (100% of mice), increased glomerular size (80% of mice), tubule dilation (80% of mice), and mononuclear cell infiltration (90% of mice). Kidneys of age-matched non-diabetic WT mice had similar evidence of tubule dilation and mononuclear cell infiltration to those of diabetic WT mice, indicating that these changes were predominantly age-related. However, thickened Bowman's capsule and increased glomerular size appeared specific for the experimental diabetes. Kidneys from diabeticPapp-AKO mice had significantly reduced or no evidence of changes in Bowman's capsule thickening and glomerular size. There was also a shift to larger mesangial area and increased macrophage staining in diabetic WT mice compared withPapp-AKO mice. In summary, elevated PAPP-A expression in glomeruli is associated with diabetic nephropathy in humans and absence of PAPP-A is associated with resistance to the development of indicators of diabetic nephropathy in mice. These data suggest PAPP-A as a potential therapeutic target for diabetic nephropathy.
Optimum Cut‐off Point of the Japanese Short Version of the Effort‐Reward Imbalance Questionnaire
Authors: Kurioka Sumiko , Inoue Akiomi , Tsutsumi Akizumi
Published: July 2013

Optimum Cut‐off Point of the Japanese Short Version of the Effort‐Reward Imbalance Questionnaire: Sumiko KURIOKA, et al. Department of Health Policy and Management, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan—

Objectives

The theoretical threshold (effort‐reward ratio >1.0) may not be ideal for the Japanese short version of the effort‐reward imbalance (ERI) questionnaire. We aimed to seek the optimum cut‐off point.

Methods

We administered the original and short versions of the ERI questionnaire with a psychological distress scale to randomly selected workers (n=1,489) in a web‐based survey. We evaluated kappa statistics and conducted receiver operating characteristics curve analyses. Cut‐off values of the short version effort‐reward ratios at 0.1 intervals in the range of 1.0−1.9 were tested using the criterion of an effort‐reward ratio >1.0 for the original version.

Results

The short version questionnaire had acceptable reliabilities. When using the theoretical cut‐off point, the prevalence of high‐risk groups was 63.2% for the short version compared with 18.9% for the original version, and their agreement was slight. Kappa agreements and receiver operating characteristics curve analyses suggested that a short‐version effort‐reward ratio of around 1.3 and 1.4 was the most equivalent to the original criterion. Regression equation procedures supported the findings, and ERI defined by the cut‐off values showed significant associations with an external criterion (psychological distress) with minimal estimation error. Because the highest but only moderate kappa agreements with the risk group defined by the original criterion were obtained when setting 1.4−1.6 as the cut‐offs, we considered >1.4 as optimal.

Conclusions

This empirical investigation suggests the cut‐off value of >1.4 for the Japanese short version of the ERI questionnaire screens out the ERI group with the most compatibility with the original version.
Phytoplankton community of Reis lake in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: SILVA ISE G. , MOURA ARIADNE N. , DANTAS ENIO W.
Published: July 2013

Reis Lake is located in the municipality of Caracaraí, state of Roraima (Brazil) and is subject to fluctuations in water level. The aim of this study was to analyze the structure of the phytoplankton community on the nictemeral and seasonal scales and determined the influence of limnological variables. Sampling was performed in the rainy season (June/2006) and dry season (November/2006), considering two nictemeral cycles. The phytoplankton community was assessed with regard to composition and density, abiotic variables were analyzed simultaneously. The lake had low concentrations of oxygen, clinograde profile and water stratified during the day and homogenous at night, with low concentrations of nutrients and waters ranging from slightly acidic to alkaline. The phytoplankton was represented by 43 taxa, 35 species in the dry season and 29 species in the rainy season. Low densities of phytoplankton occurred in both nictemeral cycles, with accentuated vertical gradient. The highest densities were recorded in the dry season. Reis Lake exhibits characteristics that classify it as a polymythic and oligotrophic environment. The variability in the data was more important seasonally than on the nictemeral scale, supporting the hypothesis of the influence of the hydrological cycle on the dynamics of phytoplankton communities in floodplain lakes.
Expansão dos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem: estudo no Piauí
Authors: Rocha Maria Eliane Martins Oliveira da , Nunes Benevina Maria Vilar Teixeira
Published: July 2013

Estudo de natureza descritiva, exploratória e retrospectiva, com abordagem quantitativa, que teve como objetivo avaliar a expansão dos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem no Estado do Piauí no período de 1973 a 2008. Pesquisou-se, auxiliado por um formulário, todas as dez instituições de ensino superior existentes, neste período, no Piauí. Os resultados apontam para uma expansão dos cursos de enfermagem nos últimos 10 anos, sendo o crescimento no período de 1973 a 2008 na ordem de 1.300%. Verificou-se um total de 2.949 enfermeiros graduados revelando uma relação per capita para o Piauí de 0,93 enfermeiros/1.000 habitantes. A partir dos dados do estudo constata-se o potencial do Estado na formação de enfermeiros, com crescimento de cursos e vagas. Assim, sublevo reflexão por parte das instituições e órgãos de classe quanto à relação mercado de trabalho e demanda de graduados, qualidade dos cursos e controle de vagas ofertadas.
As flores estão brotando: atendimento infantil em consultas terapêuticas
Authors: Rodrigues Claudia Mazzer , Mishima-Gomes Fernanda Kimie Tavares
Published: July 2013

As consultas terapêuticas são uma modalidade de atendimento psicoterápico que representa nova possibilidade de intervenção psicológica voltada para a escuta, para a prática e para a flexibilidade clínicas advindas da teoria do amadurecimento humano. Tal modalidade possibilita sustentação emocional para que o paciente possa retomar sua continuidade de ser e seu processo de amadurecimento emocional. Apresenta-se o caso de uma menina de oito anos de idade, atendida em consultas terapêuticas na clínica-escola de uma universidade pública. A procura pelo atendimento foi realizada pela mãe, que relatou como principais queixas: humor deprimido, dores no peito e temperamento difícil. O manejo clínico e as experiências constitutivas do si mesmo por meio do brincar compartilhado possibilitaram à criança a expressão do gesto espontâneo, da criatividade e de uma maior confiança na própria capacidade.
Compulsão e domínio na neurose obsessiva: a marca do pulsional
Authors: Farias Camila Peixoto , Cardoso Marta Rezende
Published: July 2013

Este artigo visa investigar os elementos presentes na base do desejo de domínio, próprio à neurose obsessiva. Trata-se de quadro clínico caracterizado pela busca compulsiva de domínio sobre si mesmo e sobre o outro. O ódio e a agressividade são centrais nessa patologia, engendrando uma dinâmica psíquica destrutiva, violenta. Esses aspectos despertaram a atenção de Freud, já o levando a investigar um aspecto até então obscuro em sua obra: a dimensão destrutiva da pulsão. A primeira confrontação da psicanálise com a problemática da compulsão se deu justamente a partir da análise dos sintomas obsessivos. Na neurose obsessiva, trava-se no sujeito uma árdua batalha intrapsíquica cuja marca é a condenação, o exercício de poder e a subjugação. Os neuróticos obsessivos permanecem cristalizados em torno de uma dinâmica mortífera, que se expressa de forma emblemática nas respostas que dão a ela, respostas que trazem também a marca de uma dominação.