bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cholestatic Hepatitis Induced by Epstein-Barr Virus in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Shkalim-Zemer Vered , Shahar-Nissan Keren , Ashkenazi-Hoffnung Liat , Amir Jacob , Bilavsky Efraim
Published: February 2015

Objective. We present 5 cases of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)–induced cholestatic hepatitis (CH) and review all additional pediatric cases from the literature. Design. The medical records of 5 patients with EBV-induced CH were reviewed. A comprehensive review of the literature was performed. Results. Including our patients, a total of 17 patients with EBV-induced CH were reviewed. The average age was 11 years (range 1-18 years); male to female ratio was 0.9:1. The most common presenting symptoms included fever, jaundice, and cervical lymphadenopathy. However, a significant number of patients presented with jaundice alone, without other suggestive signs of an EBV infection. Hepatocellular enzyme levels were significantly higher than in classical infectious mononucleosis. In many cases, serum alkaline phosphatase was also elevated, accompanied by direct hyperbilirubinemia. Conclusion. EBV infection should be included in the differential diagnosis of CH in all age groups. In the vast majority, full recovery is expected.
A Few Close Friends
Authors: Braddock Barbara A. , Twyman Kimberly A. , Garrity Matthew R. , Wang Tracy , Neary Meaghan K. , Ezzelgot Jamie , Heithaus Jennifer L.
Published: February 2015

Pediatricians must recognize and respond to adolescents with social skills deficits because they are at heightened risk for mental health disorders, peer victimization, and social isolation. The aim of this project was to describe a group of adolescent children at the time of enrollment into social skills treatment. Ninety participants with neurodevelopmental weaknesses or disorders, to include high-functioning autism spectrum disorder, participated. Results showed that adolescents referred for social skills deficits had communication weaknesses and concerns in everyday social reciprocal behavior. They rarely hosted get-togethers with same-aged peers and were not often invited by same-aged peers to get-togethers. Twenty-nine percent of participants reported that they were victims of bullying, and more than half of participants reported clinically significant ostracism experiences. Results are discussed in terms of the pediatrician’s role in the prevention, identification, and treatment of social skills deficits in light of recent research showing brain neuroplasticity extending into adolescence.
Pick a Number: Mapping Recidivism Measures and Their Consequences
Authors: Andersen Synøve Nygaard , Skardhamar Torbjørn
Published: February 2015

The Nordic countries are often seen as “exceptional” in that they have moderate punitive policies while also having low rates of crime and recidivism. It is, however, a challenge for comparative recidivism research that recidivism is measured in widely disparate ways. We exploit the richness and flexibility of Norwegian registry data to examine how and how much national recidivism rates may be affected by how, among whom, and for how long recidivism is measured. Our results vary from 9% to 53%, and these numbers could—notwithstanding scientific scrutiny—be taken as a validation as well as a debunking of the abovementioned notion of the Nordic penal exceptionalism.
Bayesian inference model for fatigue life of laminated composites
Authors: Dimitrov N , Der Kiureghian A , Berggreen C
Published: February 2015

A probabilistic model for estimating the fatigue life of laminated composite plates is developed. The model is based on lamina-level input data, making it possible to predict fatigue properties for a wide range of laminate configurations. Model parameters are estimated by Bayesian inference. The reference data used consists of constant-amplitude cycle test results for four laminates with different layup configurations. The paper describes the modeling techniques and the parameter estimation procedure, supported by an illustrative application.
Communication, technology, and political conflict
Authors: Weidmann Nils B
Published: February 2015

Modern communication technology is emerging rapidly, with tremendous social implications. The key innovations introduced by this technology include the increased pervasiveness and the rich nature of digitally transmitted information, and a new type of network structure over which it is disseminated. The articles in this special issue present theoretical and empirical research on the relationship between communication technology and political conflict and violence. There are different pathways through which this can happen: technology can facilitate collective action, but at the same time give governments the opportunity to censor content and gather intelligence about dissidents. Also, audience effects can be introduced by the rich and instant transmission of information from conflict regions. The contributions to this special issue can be divided into three groups. A first group of articles looks at the effects of ‘old’ communication technologies with state-of-the-art methods, which is necessary to see if the effects of modern technology really differ. A second category of articles focuses on ‘new’ communication technologies, and try to assess their effect on conflict both theoretically and empirically. The third and last category reverses this question, and looks at the reflection of war and violence in (traditional and new) media channels.
Ecological Momentary Assessment of Tinnitus Using Smartphone Technology
Authors: Wilson Michael B. , Kallogjeri Dorina , Joplin Conor N. , Gorman Mitchell D. , Krings James G. , Lenze Eric J. , Nicklaus Joyce E. , Spitznagel Edward E. , Piccirillo Jay F.
Published: February 2015

Objective

To explore the feasibility of ecological momentary assessments (EMAs) as a tool to more accurately assess the level of bother from tinnitus.

Study Design

Longitudinal observational study.

Setting

Washington University Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery faculty practice plan.

Subjects and Methods

Twenty participants with moderately to severely bothersome tinnitus were enrolled. All participants owned a smartphone device, and all communications were conducted via email, phone, and text messaging. Participants received 4 EMAs per day for 2 weeks via text message and a final survey on the 15th day. In each survey, participants recorded their level of tinnitus bother, their location at the time of response, their stress level, how they were feeling, and what they were doing. Response rates as a proxy for the feasibility of the program.

Results

There were a total of 1120 surveys sent to 20 participants (56 surveys per participant), and 889 (79.4%) of the surveys were completed and returned. The median time to response from the moment of receiving the text message was 7 minutes. The distribution of responses to the EMA question, “In the last 5 minutes, how bothered have you been by your tinnitus?” displayed both high between‐ and within‐subject variability. At the end of 2 weeks, the median score on the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory was 37, with a range of 10 to 82 points; the median Tinnitus Functional Index score was 43, with a range of 10 to 82 points.

Conclusion

This study suggests bothered tinnitus patients will use smartphones as part of EMA.
Managing All Quarters of the Compass? How Internally Oriented Managerial Networking Moderates the Impact of Environmental Turbulence on Organizational Performance
Authors: van den Bekerom Petra , Torenvlied René , Akkerman Agnes
Published: February 2015

The present study seeks to answer the question how, and to what extent, environmental turbulence—measured as percentage change in the number of pupils—affects organizational performance. We examine how different managerial networking orientations moderate the effect of percentage change in number of pupils on school performance. We hypothesize that percentage change in the number of pupils negatively affects school performance. We further hypothesize that different managerial networking orientations moderate the effect of percentage change in the number of pupils on school performance. The hypotheses are tested on a dataset of Dutch primary schools ( n = 546), which includes information about school principals, school characteristics, and school performance. Results of the analyses show that our measure of environmental turbulence negatively affects school performance. Moreover, internally oriented networking activities (team involvement and networking for coproduction), rather than externally oriented networking activities, attenuate the negative effect of environmental turbulence on school performance.
West Nile Virus Infection in Horses
Authors: Toplu N. , Oğuzoğlu T. Ç. , Ural K. , Albayrak H. , Ozan E. , Ertürk A. , Epikmen E. T.
Published: February 2015

This study describes the clinicopathologic findings in naturally occurring West Nile virus (WNV) infection in horses. WNV was diagnosed in a foal by immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization methods, and the presence of WNV antibodies was detected in 5 other horses with clinical signs suggestive of WNV infection. At necropsy of the foal, lymph nodes were edematous and enlarged, and the intestines showed diffuse congestion and focal hemorrhages. The most significant histologic lesions in this case were nonsuppurative meningoencephalomyelitis, particularly in the brainstem and spinal cord. Identification of viral RNA by in situ hybridization and viral antigen by immunohistochemistry was concentrated primarily in nerve fibers, glial cells, and their processes in brainstem and spinal cord and, to a lesser extent, within the cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum.
Measuring self-regulated practice behaviours in highly skilled musicians
Authors: Araújo Marcos Vinícius
Published: February 2015

The aim of this study was to explore self-regulated practice behaviours in advanced musicians. An online questionnaire was designed to assess self-regulated practice based on behaviours identified in the literature regarding expert music performance. The questionnaire was completed by 212 musicians. Factor analysis was applied in order to explore the underlying structure of the scale, and reliability and correlation tests showed that the scale was reliable. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used to describe the sample in relationship to self-regulated practice behaviours. Results obtained through factor analysis suggested three self-regulated behaviours in the advanced musicians, namely Practice Organization, Personal Resources and External Resources. In the advanced musicians, Self-Regulation through Personal Resources was most predominant in practice approaches, and Self-Regulation through External Resources decreased with experience. Additionally, Practice Time was negatively related to age and positively related to Practice Organization and Self-Regulation through External Resources, suggesting that the younger the musician, the more reliance is placed on time, organization and external resources. Implications regarding the use of the scale for formal assessment of self-regulated practice behaviours in musicians are discussed.
Trajectory to Fellowship: Further examination of the road to becoming a psychiatrist
Authors: Jurd Stephen , Fletcher Scott , Halley Elaine
Published: February 2015

Objectives:

In 2003 a revised RANZCP training program was implemented. This involved a revised training structure with Basic (years 1–3) and Advanced (years 4–5) requirements. All summative assessments occur during Basic Training and generalist or sub-specialty streams are available in Advanced Training. Trainees that started from2003 onwards have reached or exceeded the minimum time to attain Fellowship. This paper updates the original study to assess the progression of trainees through the elements of the training program and those that have attained Fellowship.

Methods:

This paper examines the pathway and barriers to attaining Fellowship with a focus on assessments and time to complete.

Results:

Data were extracted for all trainees commencing training between December 2003 and February 2006. Items on assessments, rotations, breaks in training, part-time training, and other items were analysed. Time taken to complete mandatory training requirements and outcomes were the key elements evaluated.

Conclusions:

For those who attained Fellowship, the median training time was 6.1 years. It was common for trainees to attain Fellowship in the minimum time of 5 years. Delaying the completion of assessments or examinations contributed to the expanded time to attain Fellowship Training, as did part-time training and breaks in training.
Hybrid time-domain and spatial filtering nonlinear damping strategy for efficient broadband vibration control
Authors: Yan Linjuan , Lallart Mickaël , Guyomar Daniel
Published: February 2015

Limiting low-frequency vibrations with low-energy, yet efficient strategies is of prior importance in embedded devices, such as on-board electronics. Hence, particular attention has been paid over the few last decades to electromechanical materials able to convert mechanical energy into electricity, therefore reducing the mechanical energy within the structure yielding a damping effect. However, under multimodal or more generally broadband vibration spectra, the performance of such systems is compromised. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to expose an efficient nonlinear technique based on the intermittent voltage inversion of a piezoelectric element voltage through switching actions. In order to achieve very good performance under broadband vibrations, spatial and time domain filtering approaches are implemented within the control of the digital switches, allowing simultaneous mode separation thanks to the spatial filtering process and better energy transfer due to the processing of the time history of the signal. Finite-element simulations, based on an experimental device, show that such a hybrid technique significantly outperforms the classical switching algorithm as well as the spatial and time domain approaches (when taken separately).
Speaking of Climate Change
Authors: Hanson-Easey Scott , Williams Susan , Hansen Alana , Fogarty Kathryn , Bi Peng
Published: February 2015

Representations of climate change have been a recurrent motif in media and political domains spanning over 20 years. However, relatively scant scholarly work has addressed how laypeople make sense of this phenomenon in talk. The current study, employing a discursive approach, demonstrates how the salience of climate change, as a social issue, is accounted for and made contingent on social, financial, and political factors. Moreover, the issue of climate change was accounted for as an intergenerational issue, and moral considerations were mobilized in arguing for why the issue should be provided increased attention. We argue that science communication research could fruitfully examine the discursive building blocks underpinning taken-for-granted ways of talking about climate change, informing the design of alternative discourses.
Providers’ Perspectives About Helpful Information for Evaluating Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services
Authors: Macy Rebecca J. , Ogbonnaya Ijeoma Nwabuzor , Martin Sandra L.
Published: February 2015

This practice note presents findings from a statewide survey of domestic violence and sexual assault agency directors ( n = 80; 77% response rate), regarding their opinions about the outcome information that should be collected from victims during evaluations of five commonly provided services: legal advocacy, medical advocacy, group services, individual counseling, and shelter. The findings showed that four information types were repeatedly ranked among the most important to collect to understand whether services helped victims including victims’ satisfaction with services, victims’ progress toward meeting their goals, changes in the extent of violence and/or trauma that victims experienced, and changes in victims’ knowledge.
Measuring Coercive Control
Authors: Myhill Andy
Published: February 2015

Numerous academic studies point to gender symmetry in the prevalence of intimate partner violence (IPV). Many of these studies report findings from surveys with small and/or unrepresentative samples that have insufficient questions to differentiate adequately between different types of abuse. Data from a large, nationally representative survey suggest that, while the prevalence of situational violence is fairly symmetrical, coercive controlling abuse is highly gendered, with women overwhelmingly the victims. The authors conclude that more comprehensive measures are required in national surveys that consider a wider range of controlling behaviors as well as the meaning and impact of abuse.
Evaluation of usage of essential oils instead of spices in meat ball formulation for controlling Salmonella spp.
Authors: Ozdikmenli Seda , Demirel Zorba Nukhet N
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this study was to show the efficacy of essential oils (EOs) in meat balls instead of spices because of their high antimicrobial effect and to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of Origanum onites and Ocimum basilicum EOs against Salmonella Typhimurium in minced beef (20% fat) stored at 4 ℃ for seven days. This is the first study about use of O. basilicum EO in minced beef against bacterial pathogens. Both EOs inhibit microorganisms in in vitro antibacterial tests. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of EOs were determined. The lowest MIC values were obtained with O. onites EO 0.6 µl/ml against S. Typhimurium strains. The MIC values of O. basilicum EO 0.25 µl/ml against microorganisms. Both EOs showed a significant decrease in microorganisms inoculated in minced beef at end of storage. The concentration of the both EOs at 20 µg/mg and 10 µg/mg showed stronger antimicrobial activity against bacterial cocktail of S. Typhimurium in beef; however, the higher concentrations caused alterations in the organoleptic properties of meatballs. The results of the present study indicate that O. onites and O. basilicum EOs may be used in combination with each other and different food preservation systems in meat ball formulation.
Strategies that assist children with communicative disability during hospital stay
Authors: Thunberg Gunilla , Buchholz Margret , Nilsson Stefan
Published: February 2015

There is a lack of research on the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in paediatric care, despite the fact that most children in need of AAC frequently need to visit hospitals and sometimes have to stay for long periods. The aim of this study was to investigate parents’ experiences of the hospital visits with their children with communicative disabilities and to collect their ideas about how to optimize communication in this situation. Ten parents who had children with communicative disability took part in three focus group interviews. The analysis had a retrospective qualitative content theory. In the qualitative content analysis of the focus group interviews, 4 categories and 17 subcategories were identified. Overall, the results highlighted the importance of enabling direct communication between the child and the staff during the hospital stay. Parents of children with communication difficulties highlighted the importance of listening to their children and understanding their needs during hospital care and that hospital staff are in need of more knowledge in communicative disability and AAC to accomplish this. Training programmes for health-care professionals should be established to facilitate these requirements and connect to the United Nations conventions. Hospitals should provide and use AAC/communicative support.
Men can change: transformation, agency, ethics and closure during critical dialogue in interviews
Authors: Johnston Matthew S
Published: February 2015

Some male interviewees encounter difficulties when they try to express their emotions and overcome anti-feminist positions that transform the research setting into places where hyper-masculinities are reproduced. This research finds that critical dialogue is a persuasive tool interviewers can employ to challenge their participants to empathize with perspectives that contest and confront gendered violence, institutional coercion, and misogyny. Drawing on eight interviews I conducted with male security officers (all former colleagues of the author) who engaged in healthcare violence against male and female psychiatric patients at two hospitals in Ottawa, Canada, I discovered that dissent and the testament of past sufferings inspires people to reconsider their marginalizing standpoints, and helps participants and researchers who have experienced trauma before and during the research process to cope with their emotional suffering and find closure. This approach may encounter ethical problems such as researcher/participant re-victimization and distress, which may be resolved through debriefing exercises, and displays of empathy, compassion, non-judgement, and friendship.
Dynamic analysis of a rubble-mound breakwater subject to earthquake including seawater–structure-foundation interaction
Authors: Yang Xun , Jin Xianlong
Published: February 2015

Rubble-mound breakwaters are generally subjected to strong seismic waves propagating even when seated on weak soil deposits, and they interact with seawater in most cases. The purpose of this article is to understand the dynamic response of a rubble-mound breakwater with seawater–breakwater-foundation interaction after a real earthquake shock. In this study, employing the arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian approach and dynamic finite element method, in which the seawater and the foundation of rubble-mound breakwater are considered, the dynamic responses of rubble-mound breakwater during earthquakes are simulated using the LS-DYNA finite element program. It is found that the seawater–breakwater-foundation interaction does have a considerable effect on residual displacements of the rubble-mound breakwater. The influence on horizontal residual displacement caused by the effect of seawater-breakwater interaction is greater than that on the vertical residual displacement, and the seawater–breakwater-foundation interaction does not necessarily reduce the horizontal and vertical displacements but also increases them. The vertical component of earthquake has a considerable effect on hydrodynamic pressure on the breakwater face. This investigation considers the seismic behavior of rubble-mound breakwaters by taking into account the coupling between the hydrodynamic loading and the shaking of the structure. According to the results, presented in this study, it is significant to consider the effect of interaction for rubble-mound breakwaters seismic safety evaluation.
Cardiovascular effects of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Koska Juraj , Sands Michelle , Burciu Camelia , Reaven Peter
Published: February 2015

Cardiovascular (CV) disease is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, improving glycaemic control alone has not decreased CV events. Therapies that improve glycaemic control, CV disease risk factors and CV function are more likely to be successful. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors prevent breakdown of incretin hormones glucagon-like peptide-1(GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide and improve glycaemic control in patients with T2DM. DPP-4 acts on other substrates, many associated with cardioprotection. Thus, inhibition of DPP-4 may lead to elevations in these potentially beneficial substrates. Data from animal studies and small observational studies in humans suggest that DPP-4 inhibitors may potentially reduce CV risk. However, recently completed CV outcome trials in patients with T2DM and CV disease or at high risk of adverse CV events have shown that the DPP-4 inhibitors saxagliptin and alogliptin neither increased nor decreased major adverse CV events.
C-peptide as a risk factor of coronary artery disease in the general population
Authors: Cabrera de León Antonio , Oliva García José Gregorio , Marcelino Rodríguez Itahisa , Almeida González Delia , Alemán Sánchez José Juan , Brito Díaz Buenaventura , Domínguez Coello Santiago , Bertomeu Martínez Vicente , Aguirre Jaime Armando , Rodríguez Pérez María del Cristo
Published: February 2015

Objective:

To analyse the association between serum C-peptide and coronary artery disease in the general population.

Methods:

Follow-up study of 6630 adults from the general population. They were stratified into group 1 (no insulin resistance: C-peptide < third tercile and glycaemia < 100 mg/dL), group 2 (initial insulin resistance: C-peptide ⩾ third tercile and glycaemia < 100 mg/dL) and group 3 (advanced insulin resistance: glycaemia ⩾ 100 mg/dL).

Results:

After 3.5 years of follow-up, group 2 had a higher incidence of myocardial infarction (relative risk (RR) = 4.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.7–10.6) and coronary artery disease (RR = 3.5, 95% CI = 1.9–6.6) than group 1. Group 3 also had increased incidences of both diseases. In multivariable analysis of the entire population, groups 2 and 3 showed significant risks of myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease (RR > 3 and RR > 2, respectively). However, when people with diabetes were excluded, the increased risks were corroborated only in group 2 for myocardial infarction (RR = 2.8, 95% CI = 1.1–6.9; p = 0.025) and coronary artery disease (RR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.3–4.6; p = 0.007).

Conclusion:

Elevated C-peptide is associated with the incidence of myocardial infarction and coronary artery disease in the general population. It can be an earlier predictor of coronary events than impaired fasting glucose.
Oral nitrite therapy improves vascular function in diabetic mice
Authors: Sindler Amy L , Cox-York Kimberly , Reese Lauren , Bryan Nathan S , Seals Douglas R , Gentile Christopher L
Published: February 2015

Aim:

We tested the hypothesis that short-term oral sodium nitrite supplementation would improve vascular dysfunction in obese, diabetic mice.

Methods and results:

Vascular function was determined in control mice and in db/db mice receiving drinking water with or without sodium nitrite (50 mg/L) for 5 weeks. Nitrite supplementation increased plasma nitrite concentrations in db/db mice (0.19±0.02 µM vs 0.80±0.26 µM; p < 0.05). Db/db mice had lower endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD) in response to increasing doses of acetylcholine versus heterozygous control mice (71.2% ± 14.3% vs 93% ± 7.0%; p < 0.05), and sodium nitrite supplementation restored endothelium-dependent dilation to control levels (92.9% ± 2.3% vs 93% ± 7.0%; p < 0.05). The improvement in endothelial function was accompanied by a reduction in intrinsic stiffness, but not by alterations in plasma or vascular markers of inflammation.

Conclusion:

These data suggest that sodium nitrite may be a novel therapy for treating diabetes-related vascular dysfunction; however, the mechanisms of improvement are unknown.
Functional Analysis in Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Waltman Scott H.
Published: February 2015

The following case study examines the treatment of a man who presented with ambiguous concerns related to safety. Initially, diagnosis was unclear, and a psychotic disorder was hypothesized. Through the use of functional analysis (FA), it became clear that he met criteria for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and was subsequently treated using Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). He experienced clinically significant change as his score on the PTSD Checklist dropped from 59 to 26. This case demonstrates the utility of FA in the diagnostic process to ensure identification of key treatment targets. Also, visual methods of increasing attentional focus during cognitive restructuring are reviewed.
Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for acute respiratory failure following oesophagectomy: Is it safe? A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Charlesworth Michael , Lawton Tom , Fletcher Stephen
Published: February 2015

Objective

To find, critically appraise and synthesise all published studies so as to determine the safety and spectrum of use of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for acute respiratory failure following oesophagectomy.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched and the quality of the studies and any bias or confounding were rated according to established protocols. Outcomes extracted included re-intubation, anastomotic leakage, length of intensive care unit stay and mortality. The data were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. Pooling of outcomes was considered if appropriate.

Results

The search identified four papers, demonstrating the understudying/underreporting of the topic. Three were case-series and one was a conference abstract. The overall methodological quality was low. Design-specific biases and confounding were high. Despite this, the included studies conclude that noninvasive positive pressure ventilation is safe and effective and that re-intubation rates, intensive care unit length of stay, mortality and anastomotic dehiscence is lower when it is used. Meta-analysis was deemed to be inappropriate.

Conclusions

Despite the conclusions and consensus of the included studies, there is no evidence to definitively conclude that noninvasive positive pressure ventilation is either safe or dangerous following oesophagectomy and the current literary evidence is inadequate. Current practice varies and is based on opinion and consensus. As such, randomised controlled studies are urgently required as current practice may cause undue harm to patients. The incidence of anastomotic leakage with noninvasive positive pressure ventilation use needs to be determined.
Biceps Tenotomy Versus Tenodesis in Active Patients Younger Than 55 Years
Authors: Friedman Jamie L. , FitzPatrick Jennifer L. , Rylander Lucas S. , Bennett Christine , Vidal Armando F. , McCarty Eric C.
Published: February 2015

Background:

Proximal biceps pathology is a significant factor in shoulder pain. Surgical treatment options include biceps tenotomy and subpectoral biceps tenodesis. Tenotomy is a simple procedure, but it may produce visible deformity, subjective cramping, or loss of supination strength. Tenodesis is a comparatively technical procedure involving a longer recovery, but it has been hypothesized to achieve better outcomes in younger active patients (<55 years).

Hypothesis:

This study investigated the outcomes of younger patients who underwent either a biceps tenotomy or tenodesis as part of treatment for shoulder pain. The hypothesis was that, apart from cosmetic deformity, there will be no difference in outcome between the 2 treatment options.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Isometric strength and endurance testing of operative and nonoperative shoulders for forearm supination (FS) and elbow flexion (EF) were tested utilizing an isometric dynamometer. Objective physical assessment was also performed. Subjective outcomes using the modified American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score (ASES); Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH); visual analog scale (VAS); and perceived biceps symptoms were collected.

Results:

A total of 42 patients (22 tenotomy, 20 tenodesis) with an average follow-up of 3.3 years were studied. The average age at follow-up was 49.9 years. Thirty-five percent (7/20) of tenotomy patients exhibited a “Popeye” deformity, compared with 18.2% (4/22) of tenodesis patients. Strength prior to fatiguing exercise was similar between tenodesis and tenotomy for FS (6.9 vs 7.3 lbs; P < .05), EF in neutral (35.4 vs 35.4 lbs), and EF in supination (33.8 vs 34.2 lbs). Strength was not significantly different between groups for isometric strength and endurance measures. Subjective functional outcome measured by the DASH, ASES, and VAS scores were similar between groups. Frequency of complaints of cramping was higher in the tenotomy group (4/20 vs 1/22), and complaints of pain were higher in the tenodesis group (11/22 vs 5/20).

Conclusion:

Despite increased demands and activity placed on biceps function in a younger population, this study showed no differences in functional and subjective outcome measurements. The choice between biceps tenotomy and tenodesis for pathology of the proximal biceps tendon can continue to be based on surgeon and patient preference.
Community Pharmacy–Based Adherence Programs and the Role of Pharmacy Technicians
Authors: Kadia Niyati K. , Schroeder Michelle N.
Published: February 2015

Objective: To increase pharmacy technician awareness of medication nonadherence enabling them to identify opportunities to participate in the provision of community pharmacy–based adherence programs. Data Sources: Articles were identified through searches of MEDLINE/PubMed (1950 through December 2014) using the following search terms: “adherence,” “role of technicians,” “community adherence programs,” “adherence and technician’s role,” “medication synchronization,” “retail pharmacy adherence programs,” and “CMS Star Ratings.” Additionally, resources on adherence programs were used from the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the American Pharmacists Association, and the Food and Drug Administration. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles describing community pharmacy adherence programs, the role of pharmacy technicians in providing these services, and medication synchronization were included. Data Synthesis: Nonadherence to medications creates a burden in terms of patient health and leads to high health care costs to the patients, providers, and insurers. Initiatives on pharmacist-led adherence programs have proven to reduce these overall health care–related costs. Pharmacy technicians can have an active role in the management of these adherence programs to reduce the burden on community pharmacists who are running adherence programs. Pharmacy technicians can be responsible for gathering medication histories, organizing patient medication lists, making appointment calls to schedule patients, collecting patient demographic history, conducting follow-up calls, and in promoting the program overall. Conclusions: Pharmacy technicians are a valuable asset to the community pharmacists in the process of running adherence programs, and they can work with the pharmacists to coordinate and promote community pharmacy–based medication adherence programs.
Morgana acts as an oncosuppressor in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Di Savino Augusta , Panuzzo Cristina , Rocca Stefania , Familiari Ubaldo , Piazza Rocco , Crivellaro Sabrina , Carrà Giovanna , Ferretti Roberta , Fusella Federica , Giugliano Emilia , Camporeale Annalisa , Franco Irene , Miniscalco Barbara , Cutrin Juan Carlos , Turco Emilia , Silengo Lorenzo , Hirsch Emilio , Rege-Cambrin Giovanna , Gambacorti-Passerini Carlo , Pandolfi Pier Paolo , Papotti Mauro , Saglio Giuseppe , Tarone Guido , Morotti Alessandro , Brancaccio Mara
Published: February 2015

Key Points

Morgana haploinsufficiency in mice causes a lethal and transplantable CML-like myeloid neoplasm. Morgana is underexpressed in aCML and in a subgroup of CMLs, where it predicts a worse response to imatinib but sensitivity to ROCK inhibitors.
N 1-Acetyl-5-Methoxykynuramine (AMK) Is Produced in the Human Epidermis and Shows Antiproliferative Effects
Authors: Kim Tae-Kang , Lin Zongtao , Li Wei , Reiter Russel J. , Slominski Andrzej T.
Published: February 2015

Previously, we demonstrated that skin cells metabolize melatonin to 6-hydroxymelatonin, N1-acetyl-N2-formyl-5-methoxykynuramine and 5-methoxytryptamine. In this study, we determined that N1-acetyl-5-methoxykynuramine (AMK) is endogenously produced in the human epidermis from melatonin through the kynuric pathway. The epidermal content of AMK (average from 13 subjects) is 0.99 ± 0.21 ng/mg protein, being significantly higher in African Americans (1.50 ± 0.36 ng/mg protein) than in Caucasians (0.56 ± 0.09 ng/mg protein). It is especially high in young African Americans. The levels do not differ significantly between males and females. In vitro testing using HaCaT keratinocytes has shown that exogenously added melatonin is metabolized to AMK in a dose dependent manner with a Vmax = 388 pg/million cells and Km = 185 μM. AMK production is higher in melanized than in amelanotic melanoma cells. Testing of DNA incorporation shows that AMK has antiproliferative effects in HaCaT and SKMEL-188 cells (nonpigmented and pigmented). AMK also inhibits growth of normal melanocytes but has no significant effect on melanogenesis or cell morphology. These findings indicate that antiproliferative effects of AMK are not related to melanin pigmentation. In summary, we show for the first time that AMK is produced endogenously in the human epidermis, that its production is affected by melanin skin pigmentation, and that AMK exhibits antiproliferative effects in cultured keratinocytes and melanoma cells.
Apatite/Polymer Composite Materials with Fractal Rough Surfaces
Authors: Sawaguchi Haruna , Nishida Hiroshi , Kawai Takahiro , Mayama Hiroyuki , Nonomura Yoshimune
Published: February 2015

We prepared an apatite/polymer composite material with a fractal surface by transferring the hierarchical rough surface of a plaster replica onto calcium phosphate paste and immersing the paste in a buffer. The rough structure (fractal dimension: 2.3) accelerated the spreading and penetration of a water droplet placed on the surface. This material can be applied in dental implants and texture testers.
Synthesis and Applications of Porous Organic Cages
Authors: Evans Jack D , Sumby Christopher J , Doonan Christian J
Published: February 2015

Solids composed of shape-persistent organic cage molecules are an emerging class of porous materials. Research in this area has recently progressed from understanding the nature of porosity in these materials to finding applications suited to their unique properties. For example, given that the cages are held together in the solid state by relatively weak (compared to covalent interactions) dispersion forces, the resultant materials are structurally flexible and thus physical properties, such as porosity, that can be modulated according to the adsorbate to which it is exposed. Moreover, discrete cages are soluble and can thus be reprecipitated as structural polymorphs that possess different properties, or processed into thin layers or composite materials such as mixed matrix membranes. In this review, we highlight the synthetic strategies that have been employed to produce porous organic cages and discuss recent advances in design concepts that have led to ultraporous solids. We will also canvass recent applications of these materials and posit potential areas of development.
Asymmetric Autocatalysis Triggered by Chiral Crystal of Achiral Ethylenediamine Sulfate
Authors: Matsumoto Arimasa , Ide Takahiro , Kaimori Yoshiyasu , Fujiwara Satoshi , Soai Kenso
Published: February 2015

Achiral ethylenediamine forms chiral structures spontaneously when crystallized as the sulfate salt. By using these chiral crystals of ethylenediamine sulfate (ethylenediammonium sulfate), asymmetric autocatalysis of pyrimidyl alkanol affords a highly enantioenriched product with chirality that is determined by the chirality of the crystals.
Fused embryos and pre-metamorphic conjoined larvae in a broadcast spawning reef coral
Authors: Jiang Lei , Lei Xin-Ming , Liu Sheng , Huang Hui
Published: February 2015

Fusion of embryos or larvae prior to metamorphosis is rarely known to date in colonial marine organisms. Here, we observed for the first time the embryos of the broadcast spawning coral Platygyra daedalea could fuse during blastulation and further develop into conjoined larvae, and the settlement of conjoined larvae immediately resulted in inborn juvenile colonies. Considering the frequent record of synchronous spawning events and spawn slicks in the field, fusion of embryos might be a naturally occurring phenomenon, and act as an adaptive strategy to form pre-metamorphic united larvae and larger recruits, thereby promoting early survival. However, whether fusion of embryos is common in spawning corals and its implications deserve further investigation.
ASP, The Art and Science of Practice: How Analytics Practitioners Can Learn from Published Patents and Protect Their Work
Authors: Milne R. John , Denton Brian T. , White Troy
Published: February 2015

This paper examines the high and growing rate at which the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office granted analytics patents from 2002 to 2013. We summarize examples of analytics patents and provide advice to analytics professionals on searching and reading patents and protecting their work.
Smart People Ask for (My) Advice: Seeking Advice Boosts Perceptions of Competence
Authors: Brooks Alison Wood , Gino Francesca , Schweitzer Maurice E.
Published: February 2015

Although individuals can derive substantial benefits from exchanging information and ideas, many individuals are reluctant to seek advice from others. We find that people are reticent to seek advice for fear of appearing incompetent. This fear, however, is misplaced. We demonstrate that individuals perceive those who seek advice as more competent than those who do not. This effect is moderated by task difficulty, advisor egocentrism, and advisor expertise. Individuals perceive those who seek advice as more competent when the task is difficult rather than when it is easy, when people seek advice from them personally rather than when they seek advice from others and when people seek advice from experts rather than from nonexperts or not at all.

This paper was accepted by Yuval Rottenstreich, judgment and decision making.
Optimal Decentralization of Early Infant Diagnosis of HIV in Resource-Limited Settings
Authors: Deo Sarang , Sohoni Milind
Published: February 2015

Early infant diagnosis (EID) programs in many resource-limited settings are aimed at diagnosing infants born to HIV-infected mothers. Because of the complexity of the diagnostic technology, EID programs are often highly centralized with few laboratories testing blood samples from a large network of health facilities. This leads to long diagnostic delays and consequent failure of patients to collect results in a timely manner. Several point-of-care (POC) devices that provide rapid diagnosis within the health facilities are being developed to mitigate these drawbacks of centralized EID networks. We study the decision of which facilities should receive the POC device (the placement plan) using the EID program in Mozambique as a case study. We argue that the choice of an appropriate plan is critical to maximizing the public health impact of POC devices in the presence of tight budget constraints. To formalize this argument, we develop a detailed simulation model to evaluate the impact of a placement plan. It comprises two parts: an operational model that quantifies the impact of a POC placement plan on the diagnostic delay and a behavioral part that quantifies the impact of diagnostic delay on the likelihood of result collection by infants’ caregivers. We also develop an approximate version of these operational and patient behavior dynamics and embed them in an optimization model to generate candidate POC placement plans. We find that the optimization-based plan can result in up to 30% more patients collecting their results compared to rules of thumb that have practical appeal. Finally, we show that the effectiveness of POC devices is much higher than other operational improvements to the EID network such as increased laboratory capacity, reduced transportation delay, and more regularized transport.
Individual face-to-face tutorials: the value in nurse education
Authors: Nathan Martina
Published: February 2015

The individual, face-to-face tutorial is one means by which academic support can be provided to students in higher education. This mode of tutorial support has been deemed effective but it can be considered labour-intensive, which is a concern in the UK with the recession currently impacting on higher education institutions. Nevertheless, with increasing student fees come higher student expectations. With all UK pre-registration nursing study programmes at degree level and with the emphasis on widening access, students may require additional academic support to ensure success. This study aimed to examine the value of individual, face-to-face tutorials for academic support in nurse education. A descriptive and exploratory design was used, mixing qualitative and quantitative methods. The survey approach employed a web-based, self-completion questionnaire, which was distributed to lecturers and pre-registration student nurses in a UK university. Following analysis of the questionnaire results, students were invited to attend a group interview. Findings highlighted the importance of individual, face-to-face tutorials with qualitative data supplying detailed accounts regarding their value.
Students: you are the future of nursing
Authors: Freshwater Ed
Published: February 2015

Now that his BSc in Mental Health Nursing is drawing to a close, Ed Freshwater considers his options, from professional development to a Master's degree.
The fall and rise of the polyclinic and its link to the role of the nurse
Authors: Haidar Elizabeth
Published: February 2015

Healthcare delivery is subject to constant transformation and reform as the NHS seeks to provide effective health care under the scrutiny of service users. This can be especially difficult in times of recession. This article will consider the similarities between the development of a public healthcare system in the 20th and 21st centuries in Britain under Lords Dawson and Darzi respectively, and the impact these changes have had on discussions on the introduction of polyclinics and on nursing today.
Involving young people: Creating the participation group
Authors: Menzies Alison
Published: February 2015

In her regular column, Alison Menzies shares her experiences as a research scholarship holder and on the development of an app aimed at young offenders.
Young people struggle to identify who they are talking to online
Authors: May-Chahal Corinne
Published: February 2015

Young people struggle to correctly identify exactly who they are talking to online, research has found. Professor Corinne May-Chahal provides an overview of some of the study's findings.
Supporting the needs of people who are homeless
Authors: Forward Catherine
Published: February 2015

This series of articles aims to gather health promotion resources on specific themes relevant to school nursing practice. This month, Catherine Forward looks at the needs of people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Access to automated external defibrillators in schools
Authors: Lepkowska Dorothy
Published: February 2015

Every year several hundred young people die of sudden cardiac arrest. Dorothy Lepkowska looks at the difference having automated external defibrillators in schools can make and recent government guidance.
Research roundup: February 2015
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: February 2015

In brief

▪ The treatment of type 2 diabetes with insulin is associated with increases in all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events and cancer ▪ E-cigarettes approximately double the chances of quitting smoking and increase the number of people who halve cigarette consumption, according to a Cochrane review ▪ Clarithromycin can cause potentially serious interactions with statins in older people ▪ Approximately half the antipsychotic prescriptions in the UK are for people who do not have severe mental illnesses; further effort is needed to decrease primary care antipsychotic prescriptions for dementia
Drug therapies for postmenopausal urinary incontinence
Authors: Bardsley Alison
Published: February 2015

This article provides an update on drug therapies for the treatment of urinary incontinence in postmenopausal women. The recommendations are based on the updated guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence ( NICE, 2013a ). Where the recommendations from the guidelines have not changed from the original version published in 2006, the original has been referenced.