bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term survival after pneumonectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Kalathiya Rohan J , Davenport Daniel , Saha Sibu P
Published: July 2013

Objective

to investigate long-term survival in patients who underwent pneumonectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer at the University of Kentucky Medical Center.

Methods

we retrospectively reviewed 100 consecutive pneumonectomy cases from 1998 to 2009 at the University of Kentucky. We were able to obtain follow-up data on 99 of 100 patients.

Results

overall 1-, 2-, and 5-year survival was 66%, 48%, and 32%, respectively. The 1-, 2-, and 5- survival for left pneumonectomy was 76%, 55%, and 40%, respectively, compared to 56%, 44%, and 22%, respectively, for right pneumonectomy. The median survival for left pneumonectomy was 2.4 years compared to 1.2 years for right pneumonectomy ( p = 0.056). The 5-year survival for patients diagnosed with stage I disease was 34%, compared to 19% for stage II disease, and 38% for stage III disease. The 5-year survival for patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy was 31% compared to 39% for patients who received adjuvant therapy and 29% for patients who received surgery alone. These results were also not statistically significant.

Conclusion

neoadjuvant therapy did not adversely affect long-term survival in our study. When compared to left pneumonectomy, right pneumonectomy for non-small-cell lung cancer is associated with adverse postoperative outcomes as well as poorer long-term survival.
Chest wall deformity found in patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Saita Kosuke , Murakawa Tomohiro , Kawano Hirotaka , Sano Atsushi , Nagayama Kazuhiro , Nakajima Jun
Published: July 2013

Background

the current consensus is that primary spontaneous pneumothorax frequently occurs in young male patients who are tall and thin. However, upon careful observation, many chest wall deformities have been recognized in primary spontaneous pneumothorax patients. We investigated the distinctive features of the chest wall configuration of primary spontaneous pneumothorax patients by comparing them with controls (normal and Marfan syndrome patients).

Methods

the anteroposterior and transverse diameters of the bilateral hemithoraxes of each patient at predetermined levels were measured by computed tomography. The asymmetry, which was based on the right/left anteroposterior and right/left transverse diameter ratio, and thickness based on the anteroposterior/transverse ratio, were examined.

Results

severe anteroposterior asymmetry and transverse asymmetry were observed in Marfan syndrome patients, and moderate anteroposterior asymmetry and transverse asymmetry were observed in primary spontaneous pneumothorax patients in comparison with normal control patients. Primary spontaneous pneumothorax and Marfan patients showed flatter thoraxes than normal control patients.

Conclusions

primary spontaneous pneumothorax patients tend to have asymmetric and flat thoraxes. Subclinical thoracic wall deformity observed in the primary spontaneous pneumothorax group may partly contribute to alveolar pressure heterogeneity, and may be related to subpleural bleb formation.
Late atrial appendage perforation from a pacemaker lead pacemaker complication
Authors: Souretis Georgios , Kotoulas Christophoros , Xapladeris Panagiotis , Flessas Dimitrios , Laschos Nikolaos , Lazarides Kyriakos
Published: July 2013

Lead perforation is a rare complication of device implantation, varying between 0.3% and 1%, although the prevalence may be higher. Late lead perforations (>1 month after implantation) are believed to be very rare. We describe the successful treatment of a 65-year-old man with late cardiac perforation due to the pacemaker active fixation lead after an uneventful implantation.
Novel emboli protection cannula during cardiac surgery: first animal study
Authors: Shani Liran , Cohen Oved , Beckerman Ziv , Nir Rony-Reuven , Bolotin Gil
Published: July 2013

Background

Stroke after open heart surgery is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Up to 60% of intraoperative cerebral events are caused by emboli generated by manipulations of the aorta during surgery. This is the first animal study evaluating the safety and efficacy of a novel aortic cannula designed to extract solid and gaseous emboli during cardiac surgery.

Methods

Seven domestic pigs were connected to cardiopulmonary bypass using a CardioGard 24F aortic cannula. Three pigs that were cannulated with a standard aortic cannula were defined as controls. Several main flow and suction regimens were carried out. Osseous particles of different sizes were injected into the proximal aorta to simulate emboli.

Results

The CardioGard cannula demonstrated an overall emboli retrieval rate of 77%. A rate of 88.45% was demonstrated during the low-flow regimen used clinically during aortic manipulation. Gaseous and solid emboli were eliminated by suction, as demonstrated by epi-carotid ultrasound. No significant changes were observed in hemodynamic and laboratory parameters.

Conclusions

The CardioGard cannula is as simple to use as a regular commercially available aortic cannula, having a similar safety profile and proven efficacy in capturing intraoperative emboli.
Recurrent left ventricular thrombus in Crohn’s disease: a rare presentation
Authors: Iyer Anand , Marney Lucy , Ipp Shoane , Bough Georgina , McCoombe Dean , Tam Robert
Published: July 2013

A 40-year-old man with Crohn’s disease was found to have recurrence of a large left ventricular mass on echocardiography during workup for stricturoplasty. He presented with left limb emboli. He had been diagnosed with a left ventricular thrombus 2 years earlier, with multiple cerebral and peripheral emboli, and underwent surgery. We carried out redo surgery, and histology revealed organized thrombus. We discuss the management of this complex case.
On-pump beating resection of cardiac pheochromocytoma
Authors: Kaku Yuji , Saito Satoshi , Saito Hiroyuki , Yamazaki Kenji
Published: July 2013

We describe the case of 34-year-old woman with a cardiac pheochromocytoma that was diagnosed by scintigraphy using iodine-131 metaiodobenzylguanidine. For preoperative evaluation, we chose multidetector computed tomography instead of coronary angiography, for fear that catheter manipulation might trigger catecholamine release from the tumor; it showed that no major coronary artery branches run through the tumor. The tumor resection was carried out safely with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass and without cardiac arrest.
Botulinum toxin for prevention of delayed gastric emptying after esophagectomy
Authors: Bagheri Reza , Fattahi Seyed Hossein , Haghi Seyed Ziaollah , Aryana Kamran , Aryanniya Ali , Akhlaghi Saeed , Riyabi Fateme Naghavi , Sheibani Shima
Published: July 2013

Background

Esophageal cancer is among the most common gastrointestinal cancers for which the main treatment is surgery. This study was undertaken to analyze the results of Botox injection in preventing gastric stasis in these patients.

Patients and methods

60 patients with esophageal cancer in the middle and lower third parts were included in our study between 2010 and 2011, and were randomly divided into two groups. In group A, 30 patients underwent pyloroplasty, and in group B, injection of botulinum toxin into the pyloric sphincter muscle was used in 30 patients.

Results

The mean age of these patients was 61 ± 10.7 years and the male/female ratio was 33:27. Isotope scans 3 weeks after surgery showed that 5 patients in group A and 3 in group B had delayed gastric emptying; there was no significant difference between the 2 groups, and the success rate of Botox injection was 90%.

Conclusion

Considering the fact that there was no significant difference between pyloroplasty and Botox injection on gastric emptying after surgery, and given the need to use less-aggressive techniques and facilitate greater use of endoscopic methods, botulinum toxin injection may be used instead of pyloroplasty as a simple, effective, and complication-free method to prevent delayed gastric emptying.
Use of Rotaflow pump for left ventricular assist device bridging for 15 weeks
Authors: Khaliel Feras , Habeeb Waleed Al , Saad Elias , Kjellman Ulf
Published: July 2013

Mechanical circulatory support systems have been described for short- and long-term left ventricular assistance. We report the use of a Rotaflow centrifugal pump in a 55-year-old man with ischemic cardiomyopathy and severe left ventricular dysfunction. He was successfully bridged to transplantation with 15 weeks of Rotaflow support, with no major adverse events.
Validation of 7th TNM staging system for lung cancer, based on surgical outcomes
Authors: Yoshida Yukihiro , Murayama Tomonori , Sato Yasunori , Suzuki Yoshio , Saito Haruhisa , Tanaka Nobutaka
Published: July 2013

Background

Validation of the clinical classification for lung cancer of the 7th edition of the TNM staging system among surgical cases has not been reported previously.

Methods

Data of 489 males and 246 females, with a mean age of 67.6 years, who underwent surgical resection for non-small-cell lung cancer were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

The 5-year survival rate of these patients was 72.2% for clinical stage IA ( n = 365), 58.4% for IB ( n = 158), 51.2% for IIA ( n = 77), 49.1% for IIB ( n = 42), 36.8% for IIIA ( n = 86), 80% for IIIB ( n = 5) and 50% for IV ( n = 2). The 5-year survival rate of patients was 100% for pathological stage 0 ( n = 2), 86.1% for IA ( n = 216), 73.8% for IB ( n = 173), 46.1% for IIA ( n = 97), 47.2% for IIB ( n = 69), 33.3% for IIIA ( n = 155), 33.3% for IIIB ( n = 3) and 30.9% for IV ( n = 20). Prognostic factors included female sex and 70 years of age or younger, as well as adenocarcinoma histology.

Conclusions

Deterioration in patient survival was indicated with the exception of stages IIIB and IV, each of which included only a small number of patients. Our study validated the current TNM staging system in surgical cases with regard to both clinical and pathological classifications.
EuroSCORE vs. EuroSCORE II vs. Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk algorithm
Authors: Qadir Irfan , Alamzaib Sardar Muhammad , Ahmad Mohammad , Perveen Shazia , Sharif Hasanat
Published: July 2013

Introduction

This study presents a validation series for EuroSCORE II compared with the previous additive and logistic EuroSCORE and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction algorithm.

Patients and methods

Clinical data of 2004 patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass surgery between 2006 and 2010 were retrospectively collected and individual expected risks of death were calculated by all 3 risk prediction algorithms. Performance of these risk algorithms was evaluated in terms of discrimination and calibration.

Results

There were 76 deaths (3.8%) among 2004 patients. The mean EuroSCORE II predicted mortality was 3.72% ± 5.11%, additive EuroSCORE was 4.35% ± 3.65% and logistic EuroSCORE was 6.41% ± 10.06%. The additive EuroSCORE was better than EuroSCORE II in terms of both discrimination and calibration (C-statistic 0.866 and Hosmer-Lemeshow p value 0.230 vs. C-statistic 0.836 and Hosmer-Lemeshow p value 0.013 for EuroSCORE II). In a subset of 380 patients, we compared EuroSCORE II with the Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction. Actual mortality was 2.89%. Predicted mortality by EuroSCORE II was 4.27% ± 5.22% and Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction was 2.30% ± 4.16%. The area under the curve was 0.759 for EuroSCORE II and 0.898 for the Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction, whereas the Hosmer-Lemeshow p value was 0.267 for EuroSCORE II and 0.981 for Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction.

Conclusion

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk prediction algorithm is a better risk assessment tool compared to additive and logistic EuroSCORE and EuroSCORE II in Pakistani patients.
Hebrew language assessment measure for preschool children: A comparison between typically developing children and children with specific language impairment
Authors: Katzenberger Irit , Meilijson Sara
Published: July 2013

The Katzenberger Hebrew Language Assessment for Preschool Children (henceforth: the KHLA) is the first comprehensive, standardized language assessment tool developed in Hebrew specifically for older preschoolers (4;0–5;11 years). The KHLA is a norm-referenced, Hebrew specific assessment, based on well-established psycholinguistic principles, as well as on the established knowledge in the field of normal language development in the preschool years. The main goal of the study is to evaluate the KHLA as a tool for identification of language-impaired Hebrew-speaking preschoolers and to find out whether the test distinguishes between typically developing (TDL) and language-impaired children. The aim of the application of the KHLA is to characterize the language skills of Hebrew-speaking children with specific language impairment (SLI). The tasks comprised in the assessment are considered in the literature to be the sensitive areas of language skills appropriate for assessing children with SLI. Participants included 454 (383 TDL and 71 SLI) mid–high SES, monolingual native speakers of Hebrew, aged 4;0–5;11 years. The assessment included six subtests (with a total of 171 items): Auditory Processing, Lexicon, Grammar, Phonological Awareness, Semantic Categorization, and Narration of Picture Series. The study focuses on the psychometric aspect of the test. The KHLA was found useful for distinguishing between TDL and SLI when the identification is based on the total Z-score or at least two of the subtest-specific Z-scores in −1.25 SD cutoff points. The results provide a ranking order for assessment: Grammar, Auditory Processing, Semantic Categorization, Narration of Picture Series/Lexicon, and Phonological Awareness. The main clinical implications of this study are to consider the optimal cutoff point of −1.25 SD for diagnosis of SLI children and to apply the entire test for assessment. In cases when the clinician may decide to assess only two or three subtests, it is recommended that the ranking order be applied as described in the study.
Examining testlet effects in the TestDaF listening section: A testlet response theory modeling approach
Authors: Eckes Thomas
Published: July 2013

Testlets are subsets of test items that are based on the same stimulus and are administered together. Tests that contain testlets are in widespread use in language testing, but they also share a fundamental problem: Items within a testlet are locally dependent with possibly adverse consequences for test score interpretation and use. Building on testlet response theory (Wainer, Bradlow, & Wang, 2007), the listening section of the Test of German as a Foreign Language (TestDaF) was analyzed to determine whether, and to which extent, testlet effects were present. Three listening passages (i.e., three testlets) with 8, 10, and 7 items, respectively, were analyzed using a two-parameter logistic testlet response model. The data came from two live exams administered in April 2010 ( N = 2859) and November 2010 ( N = 2214). Results indicated moderate effects for one testlet, and small effects for the other two testlets. As compared to a standard IRT analysis, neglecting these testlet effects led to an overestimation of test reliability and an underestimation of the standard error of ability estimates. Item difficulty and item discrimination estimates remained largely unaffected. Implications for the analysis and evaluation of testlet-based tests are discussed.
Building an outsourced research capability
Authors: Clegg Helen
Published: July 2013

Information professionals can benefit from outsourcing if the right tasks are outsourced. This article describes the process that the Knowledge Team within the Procurement & Analytic Solutions Practice of A.T. Kearney went through to build, implement and manage an outsourced research partner network. The model paved the way for the team to concentrate on more strategic, value-adding activities. The article outlines key challenges and lessons learned during the implementation of the new model.
Evolution in the provision of published information at pharmaceutical companies
Authors: Malone Helen
Published: July 2013

This article focuses on the evolution in the provision of published information at pharmaceutical companies since the transition from print to electronic resources. In particular it highlights the importance of effective access to high quality published information resources in pharma and development of the service through an integrated strategy to enable proactive management of the portfolio. The article also highlights challenges, opportunities and trends for the future.
Endovenous laser ablation and sclerotherapy for incompetent vein of Giacomini
Authors: Guzelmansur Ismail , Oguzkurt Levent , Koca Nihal , Andic Cagatay , Gedikoglu Murat , Ozkan Ugur
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of endovenous laser ablation or ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy for Giacomini vein insufficiency. This is the largest cohort of patients treated for Giacomini vein insufficiency with endovenous laser ablation or ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy.

Material and methods

Over a three-year period, 23 females and nine males (age range, 19–67 years) treated for Giacomini vein insufficiency with or without saphenous vein insufficiency were retrospectively reviewed. Diagnosis of venous insufficiency was made by color Doppler ultrasonography. Symptomatic insufficiency of the Giacomini vein or the saphenous veins was treated with endovenous laser ablation. Ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy was used for tortuous incompetent Giacomini veins. The venous disease was categorized according to the clinical, etiological, anatomical, and pathological classification, and clinical severity was graded with the venous clinical severity score. Follow-up included clinical examination and color Doppler ultrasonography.

Results

Thirty-nine limbs in 32 patients were treated (25 endovenous laser ablation and seven ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy). All procedures were technically successful. One patient in the ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy group had a recurrence with successful repeated treatment. Recurrence was not seen in the endovenous laser ablation group. No complications were observed. All patients had resolution and improvement in 100% of their symptoms at 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusion

Giacomini vein insufficiency is mostly seen with insufficiency of the great saphenous vein and can be effectively treated with endovenous laser ablation or ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy.
The influence of test experience and NK1 receptor antagonists on the performance of NK1R-/- and wild type mice in the 5-Choice Serial Reaction-Time Task
Authors: Weir RK , Dudley JA , Yan TC , Grabowska EM , Peña-Oliver Y , Ripley TL , Stephens DN , Stanford SC , Hunt SP
Published: July 2013

Genetically-altered mice, lacking functional NK1 receptors (NK1R-/-), express abnormal behaviours that are prominent in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: namely, inattentiveness and impulsivity (indicated by their greater % omissions and premature responses in the 5-Choice Serial Reaction-Time Task (5-CSRTT) and locomotor hyperactivity. We investigated how behaviour in the 5-CSRTT is affected by repeated testing and whether the abnormalities expressed by NK1R-/- mice are mimicked by treating wild type mice with a NK1R antagonist (L 733060 or RP 67580; 5 or 10 mg/kg). Repeated testing with a variable (VITI) or fixed, prolonged (LITI) intertrial interval reduced % omissions. Premature responses also declined, but only in NK1R-/- mice, in the VITI test. By contrast, perseveration increased in both genotypes. RP 67580 (10 mg/kg) increased the % omissions in both genotypes in the VITI, an action which cannot be attributed to NK1R antagonism. Neither drug affected perseveration. However, for premature responses, the response profile suggested that the low and high doses of RP 67580 (VITI) and L 733060 (LITI) had opposing effects on this behaviour. We infer that the effect of NK1R antagonists in the 5-CSRTT is confounded by animals’ test experience and non-specific drug effects at sites other than NK1R, possibly L-type Ca2+v channels.
Pregnancy outcomes of day 5 embryo transfer in patients at high risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and analysis of factors affecting blastocyst formation
Authors: Xin Zhi-min , Zhu Hong , Jin Hai-xia , Song Wen-yan , Sun Ying-pu
Published: July 2013

Objectives

To investigate the effects of day 5 embryo transfer (D5ET) compared with day 3 embryo transfer (D3ET) in patients at high risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS); to analyse factors affecting blastocyst formation.

Methods

Patients at high risk of developing OHSS underwent either D3ET or D5ET.

Results

A total of 253 patients received D3ET; 263 received D5ET. The number of embryos transferred was lower in the D5ET group than in the D3ET group. There were no between-group differences in pregnancy or live birth rates. Implantation rate was higher, and multifetation rate lower, in the D5ET group compared with the D3ET group. In addition, the incidence of moderate or severe OHSS was lower in the D5ET group than in the D3ET group. The woman’s age, gonadotrophin dosage and insemination method were associated with the quality of blastocyst formation.

Conclusions

In patients with a high risk of developing OHSS, compared with D3ET, D5ET decreased the multifetation rate and the incidence of moderate or severe OHSS, but did not affect the pregnancy or live birth rate. Women of a younger age, who have had an appropriate gonadotrophin dose and insemination by in vitro fertilization, are suitable candidates for blastocyst transfer.
Relational Vulnerabilities of Incarcerated and Reentry Mothers
Authors: Few-Demo April L. , Arditti Joyce A.
Published: July 2013

A qualitative study involving a follow-up interview with 10 incarcerated and reentry mothers in rural southwest and central Virginia was conducted to explore the influence that women’s close relationships have on their reentry experiences with their families. The Vulnerability Conceptual Model (VCM) was used to sensitize an examination of how incarcerated and reentry mothers negotiate relational vulnerabilities in the context of varying situational vulnerability. Grounded theory analysis revealed three themes that characterized relational vulnerabilities. Given our focus on close relationships and the potential of the VCM to identify opportunities for resilience and vulnerability, we highlighted the influence of ambiguous and ambivalent relationships and unresolved loss and grief due to relationship dissolution or the death of a parent, sibling, child, or intimate partner in the reentry process. The data revealed two types of reentry mothers with divergent trajectories for social reintegration. Implications of these types for therapeutic treatment approaches for reentry women are discussed.
Headache in children: Effectiveness of multidisciplinary treatment in a tertiary paediatric headache clinic
Authors: Soee Ann-Britt L , Skov Liselotte , Skovgaard Lene Theil , Thomsen Lise L
Published: July 2013

Aim

The aim of this article is to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific multidisciplinary treatment programme for children with headache and to describe the concept and settings of the Children’s Headache Clinic in Denmark.

Method

All new patients were included and evaluations were conducted after six and 12 months. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments were offered by a team of specialists (physicians, headache nurses, a physiotherapist and a psychologist).

Patients

The subjects comprised 169 children (mean age 11.7 (range 4–17), 91 females, 78 males), 39% of whom suffered from chronic headache (≥15 days/month). All children were diagnosed according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, second edition; 20% had migraine, 34% tension-type headache, 27% mixed headache, 4% medication-overuse headache, and 15% were diagnosed with other types of headaches.

Results

Fifty per cent of the children had an improvement in headache frequency above 50% at six months. By the use of repeated measurement analysis, we found a significant decrease in headache frequency in all of the six headache groups, whereas the increase in quality of life (PedsQL™ 4.0) was significant for the group as a whole.

Conclusion

Though preliminary, the results show a good outcome for multidisciplinary treatment programmes for children who suffer from frequent or chronic headache.
Posterolateral Rotatory Instability of the Elbow
Authors: Anakwenze Oke A. , Kancherla Vamsi K. , Iyengar Jaicharan , Ahmad Christopher S. , Levine William N.
Published: July 2013

Symptomatic posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) results from a lateral collateral ligament complex injury and presents with pain, clicking, and subluxation within the flexion and extension arcs of elbow motion. Often, symptoms and examination characteristics are subtle and can be easily misdiagnosed. Therefore, a thorough history and provocative physical examination maneuvers are important to correctly establish the diagnosis. Patients frequently have a history of elbow trauma such as an episode(s) of elbow dislocation, prior surgery, or previous cortisone injections. Radiographs and advanced imaging can aid in the diagnosis, and examination under anesthesia, manipulation with arthroscopic visualization, and/or stress radiographs can be confirmatory. Symptomatic cases of PLRI can be effectively treated with a repair or isometric ligament reconstruction.
T1ρ Imaging Demonstrates Early Changes in the Lateral Patella in Patients With Patellofemoral Pain and Maltracking
Authors: Thuillier Daniel U. , Souza Richard B. , Wu Samuel , Luke Anthony , Li Xiaojuan , Feeley Brian T.
Published: July 2013

Background:

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is a common condition and often presents without evidence of arthritis on radiographs. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown good correlation between T1ρ and T2 relaxation times and changes in the cartilage matrix, but as of yet, there are limited data in the literature utilizing these modalities to evaluate the patellofemoral joint.

Hypothesis:

Patients with PFP and patellar tilt will show longer T1ρ relaxation times in the lateral facets of their patella but no difference in T2 values.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 20 patients aged 18 to 45 years with anterior knee pain, patellar tilt, and no evidence of osteoarthritis were identified and consented to undergo MRI including axial T1ρ and T2 relaxation time mapping sequences. Knee cartilage was segmented on spoiled gradient recalled acquisition in steady state (SPGR) images using a spline-based algorithm. These results were then compared with those of 10 age-matched controls.

Results:

The mean T1ρ values of the lateral facets were significantly elevated in patients with PFP compared with controls (46.33 ± 4.92 ms vs 42.32 ± 3.67 ms, respectively; P = .031), while no significant difference was observed in the medial facets (42.20 ± 5.55 ms vs 41.42 ± 4.09 ms, respectively; P = .69). Significantly higher mean T1ρ values were noted in the lateral facets of the patients with PFP (46.33 ms) compared with the medial facets (42.20 ms) ( P = .0001), while no significant differences in T1ρ values were observed between the medial and lateral facets of the controls ( P = .502). No significant differences were noted in T2 relaxation times. A high correlation was noted between the mean T1ρ values of the whole patella of patients with PFP and the degree of patellar tilt ( r = 0.72).

Conclusion:

There were significantly higher T1ρ values in the lateral facets of patients with PFP and patellar tilt that were not seen in control patients. These higher values approach the numbers seen in patients with early osteoarthritis.
In Vitro Comparison of Popliteus Tendon and Popliteofibular Ligament Reconstruction in an External Rotation Injury Model of the Knee
Authors: Zhang Hui , Zhang Jin , Liu Xin , Shen Jie Wei , Hong Lei , Wang Xue Song , Feng Hua
Published: July 2013

Background:

In posterolateral corner (PLC) injuries in which the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is intact, there is controversy about whether reconstructing the popliteus tendon (POP), the popliteofibular ligament (PFL), or both structures (POP + PFL) is required to restore normal external tibial rotation.

Hypothesis:

Three reconstruction techniques, POP, PFL, and POP + PFL, are able to restore external tibial rotation to normal.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Six nonpaired human knees were tested under the following states: POP and PFL intact and sectioned. The 3 different surgical techniques were used to reconstruct the sectioned structures, and the knees were retested. Each knee was subjected to a 5-N·m external rotation torque and tested at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, and 120° of flexion. A navigation system was used to measure motion changes of the tibia with respect to the femur.

Results:

There were small but significant increases in external rotation after sectioning both the POP and PFL. Sectioning of either one of these structures alone produced smaller increases that were not significant. After comparing all of the tested reconstructed states to the intact state, there were significant differences at knee flexion angles from 30° to 90°. The PFL procedure restored external tibial rotation without significant differences compared with the intact knee at 30° to 90° of flexion. The POP and POP + PFL techniques significantly overconstrained external tibial rotation at all tested angles.

Conclusion:

In an LCL-intact PLC injury model, the POP and PFL function as a unit in resisting external rotation. All surgical procedures described and tested were able to reduce the increased external rotational laxity found in the sectioned state. The PFL reconstruction technique was able to restore external rotation to near normal. However, the techniques involving POP reconstruction overconstrained external rotation during laxity testing.
Study of the changes in life cycle parameters of Drosophila melanogaster exposed to fluorinated insecticide, cryolite
Authors: Podder Sayanti , Roy Sumedha
Published: July 2013

The study explored variations in the life cycle parameters in Drosophila melanogaster as a function of treatment with fluorinated insecticide, cryolite. Some of the life cycle parameters considered in this study were larval duration, pupal duration, and percentage of adult fly emergence in D. melanogaster of Oregon R strain. Freshly hatched first instar larvae were transferred to different dietary concentrations of the test chemical (5, 10, 15, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 150, and 200 ppm). Larval duration, pupal duration, and the emergence of flies of both treated and control groups were recorded. Results obtained show a significant ( p < 0.001–0.05) change in the mentioned parameters in the treated flies when compared with the controls. Interestingly, the percentage emergence of flies shows a decreasing trend along with increase in treatment concentration and almost no detectable emergence is observed in 200 ppm treatment category until the 20th day of experiment. Thus, the study indicates insecticide-induced variation in duration of different life stages and thereby suggests an effect of the fluorinated insecticide on the biology of a nontarget organism like Drosophila.
Weakness and Fatigue in Diverse Neuromuscular Diseases
Authors: Montes Jacqueline , Blumenschine Michelle , Dunaway Sally , Alter Aliza S. , Engelstad Kristin , Rao Ashwini K. , Chiriboga Claudia A. , Sproule Douglas M. , Vivo Darryl C. De
Published: July 2013

Weakness and fatigue are captured by the 6-minute walk test, but the relationship between these symptoms is uncertain. Comparison across neuromuscular diseases has not been examined. A cohort study of 114 patients with spinal muscular atrophy, Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis, and energy failure syndromes were included. Percent-predicted distance on the 6-minute walk test was computed from normative values to determine weakness. Fatigue was determined by the decrement in distance from the first to sixth minute. Weakness was seen across all groups (61.9%) but significant fatigue was seen only in spinal muscular atrophy (21.0%). Other groups showed little fatigue. Correlation between weakness and fatigue was significant only in spinal muscular atrophy ( R = –0.71; P < .001). Longitudinally, distance walked declined only in Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy. In spinal muscular atrophy, weakness did not change, but fatigue increased significantly. These findings suggest independent mechanisms underlying weakness and fatigue in diverse neuromuscular conditions.
Linking Contextual Affordances
Authors: Blackmon Sha’Kema M. , Thomas Anita Jones
Published: July 2013

This exploratory investigation examined the link between self-reported racial–ethnic socialization experiences and perceived parental career support among African American undergraduate and graduate students. The results of two separate multivariate multiple regression analyses found that messages about coping with racism positively predicted parental career supports involving opportunities to practice career behaviors, modeling of career behaviors, verbal encouragement of career development, and providing emotional support. Messages involving intergroup interactions were positively predictive of emotional support messages and opportunities to practice career development activities. The self-report of exposure to African American cultural artifacts (i.e., nonverbal ethnic socialization) positively predicted parental modeling of career behaviors and verbal encouragement of career development. Messages about African American history positively predicted verbal encouragement of career development and emotional support. Finally, messages about engaging in African American cultural activities negatively predicted verbal encouragement of career development. Recommendations for research and practice are provided.
What is work? Insights from the evolution of state foster care
Authors: Kirton Derek
Published: July 2013

This article focuses on state foster care as a case study in the (re)configuration and negotiation of boundaries between work and non-work. Foster care can be seen as occupying a liminal position between the domains of ‘work’ and ‘family’, requiring management of the tensions presumed to exist between competing value systems. Through a review of research and policy developments, the relevant boundary issues are contextualized and explored, drawing examples from areas such as remuneration, taxation and benefits, employment status, work-life balance and the labour process. It is argued that while foster care shares the hybridity and ensuing tensions of care work more generally, the spatial and temporal integration of work and family and the high level of state regulation give them a particular intensity. In turn, this offers great potential for the study of work/non-work boundaries. Possible research avenues are set out.
Pustulosis acuta generalisata following chemotherapy in an HIV-positive patient
Authors: Ripa Marco , Chiappetta Stefania , Nozza Silvia
Published: July 2013

Pustulosis acuta generalisata is an uncommon condition characterized by scattered symmetrical eruption of sterile pustules associated with elevated inflammatory markers, leukocytosis, fever and arthropathy caused by previous infection by group A streptococci (GAS). We reported here a case of pustulosis acuta generalisata in an HIV-positive patient recently treated with chemotherapy for a seminoma.
Post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure (PEPSE) awareness in an HIV-positive cohort
Authors: Joshi Manavi , Basra Amardeep , McCormick Claire , Webb Helen , Pakianathan Mark
Published: July 2013

Post-exposure prophylaxis after sexual exposure (PEPSE) awareness was audited in an HIV-positive cohort. A total of 403 out of 828 (48.7%) patients were PEPSE aware. Patients diagnosed post-2006 were more PEPSE aware; 57.2% vs. 44.2% ( p = 0.0004). Men who have sex with men (MSM) were more PEPSE aware; 65.8% vs. 39.1% in heterosexuals ( p < 0.0001).Younger patients, 68.1% aged 19–34 were PEPSE aware vs. 45.7% in those >35 years ( p < 0.0001). In the 534 patients reporting sexual activity within the last year, awareness was 57.5%. In the 216 patients ‘sometimes’ or ‘never’ using condoms, awareness was 42.6%. In the 78 (9.4%) patients with detectable viral loads (>400 copies/mL), awareness was 64.1%. Overall, PEPSE awareness was unexpectedly low. MSM, younger patients, and those diagnosed after 2006 were significantly more likely to be PEPSE aware. More than one in three patients with detectable viraemia were PEPSE unaware.
When Holding Back Helps
Authors: Le Bonnie M. , Impett Emily A.
Published: July 2013

Is the suppression of negative emotions ever associated with beneficial outcomes in relationships? The study reported here drew on research and theory on emotion regulation, self-construal, and sacrifice to test the hypothesis that individual differences in interdependent self-construal moderate the association between negative-emotion suppression and the personal and interpersonal outcomes of sacrifice. In a 14-day daily-experience study of people in romantic relationships, people with higher levels of interdependence experienced boosts in personal well-being and relationship quality if they suppressed their negative emotions during sacrifice, whereas those who construed the self in less interdependent terms experienced lower well-being and relationship quality if they suppressed their negative emotions during sacrifice. Feelings of authenticity for the sacrifice mediated these associations. These findings identify a critical condition under which the suppression of negative emotions may be personally and interpersonally beneficial.
Corollary Discharge Provides the Sensory Content of Inner Speech
Authors: Scott Mark
Published: July 2013

Inner speech is one of the most common, but least investigated, mental activities humans perform. It is an internal copy of one’s external voice and so is similar to a well-established component of motor control: corollary discharge. Corollary discharge is a prediction of the sound of one’s voice generated by the motor system. This prediction is normally used to filter self-caused sounds from perception, which segregates them from externally caused sounds and prevents the sensory confusion that would otherwise result. The similarity between inner speech and corollary discharge motivates the theory, tested here, that corollary discharge provides the sensory content of inner speech. The results reported here show that inner speech attenuates the impact of external sounds. This attenuation was measured using a context effect (an influence of contextual speech sounds on the perception of subsequent speech sounds), which weakens in the presence of speech imagery that matches the context sound. Results from a control experiment demonstrated this weakening in external speech as well. Such sensory attenuation is a hallmark of corollary discharge.
Systemic lupus erythematosus in the multiethnic Malaysian population: disease expression and ethnic differences revisited
Authors: Jasmin R , Sockalingam S , Cheah TE , Goh KJ
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Ethnic differences in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been previously described in the multiethnic Malaysian population. However, there have since been many demographic and socioeconomic changes in the country. The aim of this study is to re-examine the clinical and immunological profiles of Malaysian SLE patients of different ethnic backgrounds.

Methods

Consecutive follow-up patients at the University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) from July 2010 until March 2011 were included in the study.

Results

The most common clinical manifestations were malar rash (61.3%), arthritis (52.3%), haematological disease (51.6%), oral ulcers (51%) and renal disease (40.6%). Ethnic Indians had fewer malar and discoid rashes but were at higher risk of arthritis, serositis, renal and neuropsychiatric disease compared to Malays and Chinese Malaysians. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) was less common in Chinese. A longer duration of SLE correlated with a lower SLEDAI score.

Conclusion

Overall, the spectrum disease expression was similar to the earlier Malaysian study but the frequency of the more severe disease manifestations, viz. renal, haematological, neuropsychiatric involvements and serositis, were lower. This study further emphasises differences primarily between ethnic Indians and the other races in Malaysia.
Reduced expressions of Fas and Bcl-2 proteins in CD14+ monocytes and normal CD14 soluble levels in juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Liphaus BL , Kiss MHB , Carrasco S , Goldenstein-Schainberg C
Published: July 2013

In order to evaluate Fas and Bcl-2 expressions in CD14+ monocytes, to measure soluble CD14 serum levels and to analyze the relationships with lupus nephritis and disease activity, we enrolled 41 patients with juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) and 27 healthy volunteers. Disease activity was determined by SLEDAI score. Peripheral monocytes were stained for CD14, Fas and Bcl-2 molecules, and cellular expressions were determined by flow cytometry. Soluble CD14 levels were measured by a quantitative ELISA kit. JSLE patients, those with active disease and those with nephritis, presented significantly reduced expressions of Fas and Bcl-2 proteins in CD14+ monocytes compared with healthy controls. Significant inverse correlations between percentages of CD14+Fas+ cells, SLEDAI score and anti-dsDNA antibodies were observed. JSLE patients had soluble CD14 levels similar to controls, although sCD14 levels positively correlated with ESR, but not with SLEDAI score. JSLE patients with nephritis also presented sCD14 levels similar to controls. In conclusion, the reduced expressions of Fas and Bcl-2 proteins in CD14+ monocytes from JSLE patients depict that monocyte apoptotic mechanisms may be important in lupus pathogenesis.
Association of serum B cell activating factor from the tumour necrosis factor family (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) with central nervous system and renal disease in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Vincent FB , Northcott M , Hoi A , Mackay F , Morand EF
Published: July 2013

Introduction

The objective of this study is to determine whether serum concentrations of B cell activating factor from the tumour necrosis factor family (BAFF) and/or a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) are associated with clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

BAFF and APRIL concentrations were quantified using a commercial ELISA in serum samples obtained at the time of clinical assessment in 98 patients, and on 245 samples from 75 of these patients followed prospectively.

Results

Serum BAFF was significantly increased, and APRIL decreased, in patients with either renal or central nervous system (CNS) lupus. In contrast, in cross-sectional analysis, there was no correlation between disease activity (SLEDAI-2k) and serum BAFF or APRIL. In longitudinal follow-up, there was no association between changes in serum BAFF or APRIL and changes in SLEDAI-2k, or between baseline serum BAFF or APRIL and subsequent changes in SLEDAI-2k. However, between-visit changes in BAFF were significantly different in patients with increases in SLEDAI-2k ≥ 4, compared to patients whose SLEDAI-2k did not change.

Conclusions

Although neither serum BAFF nor APRIL correlated with disease activity in the overall population, elevated serum BAFF and reduced APRIL may be markers of renal and CNS disease in SLE patients.
Occurrence of osteochondromatosis (multiple cartilaginous exostoses) in a domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus)
Authors: de Brot Simone , Grau-Roma Llorenç , Vidal Enric , Segalés Joaquim
Published: July 2013

Osteochondromatosis is a condition in which multiple benign, cartilage-capped tumors arise from the surface of bones formed by endochondral ossification. The current report describes the presence of 4 prominent exophytic masses, measuring between 4 and 13 cm in diameter, arising from the surface of the ribs, and located within the thoracic cavity, in a 2-year-old female domestic pig ( Sus scrofa domesticus). Histological studies revealed that masses were well-differentiated, cartilage-capped proliferations with an orderly pattern of endochondral mineralization toward deeper areas. The observed gross and microscopic findings are characteristic of osteochondromatosis.
Dispersion curve estimation via phased array beamforming methods
Authors: Jarmer Gregory J , Flynn Eric B , Todd Michael D
Published: July 2013

Localization of scattering sources via active ultrasonic inspection in plate-like structures requires knowledge of the structure’s dispersion relation and material properties. Often the dispersion relation and material properties are unknown, uncertain, or difficult to model due to material complexity and variability in material properties, geometry, and/or environment, thereby requiring in situ estimation. Two methods are presented for estimating guided wave dispersion curves (phase and group velocity) in a multimodal, multipath environment using a phased array. Phase and group velocities are estimated in situ on an aluminum and carbon fiber plate and compared to theoretical values. Scattering from plate boundaries is localized using the estimated phase and group velocity curves through beamforming and ranging via time of flight.
Assessment of multi-objective optimization for nondestructive evaluation of damage in structural components
Authors: Wang Mengyu , Brigham John C
Published: July 2013

A multi-objective optimization-based computational approach to nondestructive evaluation of damage in structural components, and more generally in solid continua, is discussed and numerically evaluated. The multi-objective approach provides a substantial improvement in the capabilities to traverse the optimization search space to minimize the measurement error and produce accurate damage estimates. Through simulated test problems based on the characterization of damage in structural steel components, including internal pipe surface geometry as well as material loss within a plate structure utilizing steady-state dynamic measurements of outer surface displacement, a multi-objective genetic algorithm optimization approach is shown to provide substantial computational improvement over single-objective strategies. The multi-objective approach consistently and efficiently produces more accurate characterization results in contrast to equivalent single-objective strategies. More importantly, the multi-objective approach is shown to exhibit consistently better tolerance to test measurement noise and measurement sparsity. Moreover, the multi-objective strategy was found to provide improved diversity in the solution estimates for ill-posed problems, which is an important step leading to insight into the necessary changes to the testing or parameterization to subsequently produce more accurate and unique solutions to such inverse characterization problems.