bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) for measurement of muscle stiffness of the shoulder: feasibility with a 3 T MRI system
Authors: Hong Sun Hwa , Hong Suk-Joo , Yoon Joon-Shik , Oh Chang-Hyun , Cha Jang Gyu , Kim Hee Kyung , Bolster Bradley
Published: February 2015

Background

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) at 3 T MR has the potential to improve the objective detection of skeletal muscle stiffness.

Purpose

To determine the feasibility of MRE using 3 T MR for measurement of the stiffness of shoulder muscles in subjects.

Material and Methods

This study prospectively evaluated 16 healthy subjects (mean age, 29.8 years; range, 25–51 years). MRE was acquired with 3 T MR through the use of a 2D-gradient-echo-based MRE sequence at two different excitation frequencies (90 and 120 Hz). The mean stiffness values (MSV) of the trapezius and infraspinatus muscles were measured by two radiologists. Differences between the MSV in the x, y, and z motion-sensitization directions were assessed. Inter-observer agreement was also measured.

Results

The MSV of the trapezius muscle were 2.72 kPa ± 0.6 (SD) at 90 Hz and 4.66 kPa ± 1.2 at 120 Hz, while the MSV for the infraspinatus muscle were 3.2 kPa ± 0.52 at 90 Hz and 4.38 kPa ± 0.92 at 120 Hz. The MSV for both muscles were significantly higher at 120 Hz than at 90 Hz ( P < 0.05). The MSV in the three different directions were significantly different from each other in the infraspinatus muscle ( P < 0.05). Levels of inter-observer agreement regarding MSV were good to excellent for both the trapezius (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.979–0.996) and infraspinatus muscles (ICC = 0.614–0.943).

Conclusion

MRE at 3 T is a feasible technique for the evaluation of shoulder muscle stiffness. Extended application of skeletal muscle MRE at 3 T will contribute to the evaluation and treatment of skeletal muscle disorders.
Eco-social occupational therapy
Authors: Simó Algado Salvador , Ann Townsend Elizabeth
Published: February 2015

Introduction

Ecological crises associated with the global degradation of the natural environment call for dialogues and action to develop an economically and environmentally sustainable world. This paper proposes a new narrative for humanity by connecting ecology with broad ideas about occupation and occupational justice.

Method

The authors reflect on literature and action projects on ecology, occupation, and occupational justice.

Results

The authors propose that doing ecology is essentially occupational, and necessarily a matter of occupational justice given the strong link between poverty and the degradation of the natural environment.

Conclusion

Eco-social occupational therapy practices are illustrated in poverty reduction projects, funded through university–community partnerships in Spain. The potential to expand eco-social occupational therapy lies in publicly embracing ecological challenges, focusing practices on changing the environment, and attracting partners to find new funding for enabling people everywhere to participate in ecological sustainability through occupation. This paper calls on occupational therapists to spark dialogues and take action in doing ecology and justice through occupation.
Platelet-Rich Plasma Increases Anti-inflammatory Markers in a Human Coculture Model for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Osterman Chelsea , McCarthy Mary Beth R. , Cote Mark P. , Beitzel Knut , Bradley James , Polkowski Gregory , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: February 2015

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has anti-inflammatory effects with potential applications in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA).

Purpose:

To use an in vitro coculture model of OA in human cartilage and synovium to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of 2 different PRP preparations.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A coculture system was created using osteoarthritic cartilage and synovium from 9 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) was added to each coculture to induce inflammation. Two PRP preparations were obtained—one yielding low white blood cell and platelet concentrations (PRPLP) and one yielding high platelet and white blood cell concentrations (PRPHP). Either PRPLP, PRPHP, or medium was added to the coculture wells. Control wells contained OA cartilage and synovium but neither IL-1β nor PRP. Normal, non-OA cartilage was obtained to establish baseline gene expression levels. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to measure changes in markers of inflammation in the tissues (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs–5 [ADAMTS-5], tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases–1 [TIMP-1], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], aggrecan, and type I collagen) at 0, 24, 48, and 72 hours.

Results:

Treatment with PRPLP or PRPHP significantly decreased expression of TIMP-1 and ADAMTS-5 in cartilage, increased aggrecan expression in cartilage, and decreased ADAMTS-5, VEGF, and TIMP-1 expression in synovium compared with control cocultures ( P < .05). There was significantly less nitric oxide production in the PRPLP and PRPHP groups compared with controls ( P < .05). There were significant differences in gene expression in the normal cartilage compared with all 4 groups of OA cartilage at all 4 time points. Treatment with either PRPLP or PRPHP returned some gene expression to the same levels in normal cartilage but not for all markers of inflammation.

Conclusion:

This coculture model assessed 2 different PRP preparations and their anti-inflammatory effects over time on human OA cartilage and synovium. Both had a significant anti-inflammatory effect on gene expression; however, there was no difference in the anti-inflammatory effect between the 2 preparations.

Clinical Relevance:

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of chronic disability, and less invasive treatment methods are needed. Study results suggest that PRP injections may be an effective alternative anti-inflammatory agent in the treatment of OA.
Optimal design of laminate composite plates using dynamic hybrid adaptive harmony search algorithm
Authors: Lakshmi K , Rao A Rama Mohan
Published: February 2015

Stacking sequence design is indispensable to make efficient use of the material properties of laminated composite materials. These laminated composites are usually fabricated from unidirectional plies of given thickness with fiber orientations limited to a small set of angles (e.g., 0°, +45°, –45°, and 90°). This leads to a combinatorial optimisation problem, which is rather complex to solve. In this paper, a new multi-population-based harmony search algorithm with dynamic interaction of populations, hybridised with a customised neighborhood algorithm to solve the layup sequence design problem of laminate composite plate is presented. Numerical experiments have been carried out by first considering the buckling and failure load optimisation of a laminate composite plate and later studies have been carried out using hybrid laminate plates for maximisation of buckling load and fundamental frequency with varied levels of hybridisation and for various plate aspect ratios. Numerical studies carried out in this paper clearly indicate that proposed dynamic hybrid adaptive harmony search algorithm is an effective combinatorial optimisation tool for stacking sequence optimisation of laminate composite structures and the computational performance is found to be superior when compared to other popular implementations of harmony search algorithm.
The impact of child soldiers on rebel groups’ fighting capacities
Authors: Haer Roos , Böhmelt Tobias
Published: February 2015

Several rebel groups actively recruit children to serve among their ranks. While this constitutes one of the most egregious violations of children’s rights, it remains unclear what impact recruited children have on the fighting capacities of these armed groups. The existing research suggests that, on the one hand, armed groups drafting children might also be militarily effective, since it is cheaper to provide for children, they are more obedient and aggressive than adults, and easily manipulable. On the other hand, children may negatively affect rebel groups’ fighting capacities as they are less proficient combatants than adults and often difficult to control. We add to this debate by systematically analyzing the quantitative evidence on the impact of child soldiers on rebel groups’ fighting capacities. Based on the analysis of newly compiled data on child recruitment by rebel groups between 1989 and 2010, our analyses show that children may actually increase rebel groups’ fighting capacities. That said, rebels’ ability to procure arms and the access to resources seem to be more important determinants of fighting capacity. The authors discuss these findings in light of policy implications and avenues for future research.
The Influence of Ethnic Match on Latino School-Based Family Engagement
Authors: Mundt Kevin , Gregory Anne , Melzi Gigliana , McWayne Christine M.
Published: February 2015

Research has shown that the school-based engagement of Latino families is lower compared with other racial and ethnic groups. One possible barrier to school-based engagement of this heterogeneous group of families might be the lack of cultural match between families and schools. Addressing this under-researched area, the current study examined ethnic match between Latino caregivers and teachers at seven Head Start centers in a large urban area in the Northeast. Participants were 294 Latino caregivers with children enrolled in Head Start programs and 37 Head Start teachers. Using hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), findings indicated that ethnic match (defined by whether a caregiver and the Head Start teacher both identified as Latino) was significantly associated with teacher-rated family engagement. Having a Latino teacher explained a significant amount of the variance in school-based family engagement, beyond that accounted for by caregiver and teacher education. Implications for Head Start’s recruitment and training of teachers are discussed.
The Clinical Characteristics and Treatment Response in Children with West Syndrome in a Developing Country
Authors: Gulati Sheffali , Jain Puneet , Kannan Lakshminarayanan , Sehgal Rachna , Chakrabarty Biswaroop
Published: February 2015

This study describes the clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcome of children with West syndrome in a tertiary care hospital in north India. Overall, 310 case records diagnosed from January 2009 to June 2012 were reviewed. The median age of onset of spasms was 5 months (interquartile range = 2.5-7 months). The predominant underlying etiology was perinatal cerebral ischemia (55%). Adrenocorticotropic hormone or oral steroids were received by 92% children, of whom 43% became seizure free. Median lag time for appropriate treatment initiation was significantly less in patients who became seizure free as compared to those with persisting seizures (11 vs 15 months, P = .001) soon after receiving treatment of choice. Later age at onset of spasms was associated with a favorable seizure outcome ( P = .03). In a resource-limited setting, unawareness along with treatment costs and repeated visits to the hospital are significant obstacles to optimum management.
Specific gene delivery mediated by poly(ethylene glycol)-grafted polyamidoamine dendrimer modified with a novel HER2-targeting nanobody
Authors: Jafari Iri Sofla Farnoush , Rahbarizadeh Fatemeh , Ahmadvand Davoud , Nomani Alireza , Rahimi Jamnani Fatemeh
Published: February 2015

As compared to other nanobiopolymers used in gene delivery applications, polyamidoamine dendrimers possess significantly improved physical and chemical properties such as monodispersity, well-defined size and shape, and biocompatibility, which make them ideal vectors for biomedical purposes. The aim of this study was fine-tuning of an anti–human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) nanobody–polyethylene glycol (PEG)–G5 polyamidoamine gene delivery vector for potential in vivo applications. Polyethylene glycol was conjugated to polyamidoamine dendrimers at three different molar ratios of 10, 20, and 30 (polyethylene glycol:polyamidoamine). Anti-HER2 nanobody was chosen as our targeting agents and attached to polyethylene glycol–polyamidoamine conjugates. Cytotoxicity assays and transfection studies were carried out to find the most efficient conjugate in terms of both low cytotoxicity and high transfection rate. Our data indicated that PEGylation decreased the cytotoxicity of dendrimers alone and when complexed with DNA (dendriplexes). Among all of the polyethylene glycol–polyamidoamine dendrimers, polyethylene glycol(10)–polyamidoamine resulted in the most efficient gene transfection vector in both BT-474 and MCF-10A cell lines. Incorporation of anti-HER2 nanobodies could further increase their cellular uptake up to 1.7-fold compared to native dendrimers in HER2-overexpressing BT-474 cells but not in HER2-negative MCF-10A cells. It can be concluded from our results that nanobody–polyethylene glycol–polyamidoamine conjugates might be a promising new bioconjugate for the targeted gene delivery to HER2-positive tumor cells in vivo.
Low Self-Control and the Victim–Offender Overlap
Authors: Flexon Jamie L. , Meldrum Ryan C. , Piquero Alex R.
Published: February 2015

The overlap between victimization and offending is well documented. Yet, there have been fewer investigations of the reasons underlying this relationship. One possible, but understudied, explanation lies with Gottfredson and Hirschi’s arguments regarding self-control. The current study adds to this line of inquiry by assessing whether low self-control accounts for the victim–offender overlap in a sample of young adults and whether self-control accounts for the observed overlap similarly across gender. Results from a series of bivariate probit regression models indicate that low self-control is positively related to both victimization and offending. However, only among males does low self-control account for a substantive portion of the victim–offender overlap. Limitations of the study and implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Racial Disparities in Intimate Partner Violence Examined Through the Multiple Disadvantage Model
Authors: Cheng Tyrone C. , Lo Celia C.
Published: February 2015

This research adopted the perspective of the multiple disadvantage model to explore racial disparities in intimate partner violence (IPV) against women and IPV’s links to social structural factors, social relationships, substance use, and health/mental health and access to related services. The study used data from 6,588 women who completed the National Violence Against Women Survey; linear regression was conducted separately for four ethnic groups. Results consistently showed physical assaults to increase with posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. For African Americans, increases in assaults were linked to injury, disclosing IPV to friends/family as well as medical professionals, Medicaid use, and drug use; decreases, in turn, were linked to past assault by ex-partners. For Latinas, increases in assaults were associated with eight factors: being married, number of ex-partners, depression, disclosing IPV to friends/family and disclosing to mental-health professionals, drug use, alcohol abstinence, and partner’s frequent alcohol use. For European Americans, increases in assaults were linked to number of ex-partners, injury, low income, Medicaid use, disclosing IPV to friends/family as well as mental-health professionals, and alcohol abstinence; decreases were associated with age and with other health insurance coverages. For women of other ethnicity, increases were linked to number of ex-partners, disclosing IPV to mental-health professionals, Medicaid use, drug use, and woman’s own as well as partner’s alcohol abstinence; decreases in this ethnicity category were linked to past assault by ex-partners. Intervention and policy implications are discussed.
Multiemployer Pension Plans, the PBGC, and the MPRA
Authors: Kilgour John G.
Published: February 2015

Multiemployer pension plans are negotiated between a union and two or more (usually many) employers in an industry. There are over 1,400 of them covering 10.4 million participants and they are insured by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). In the aggregate, they are now woefully underfunded, as is the PBGC’s Multiemployer Program. Congress has enacted several laws in an effort to strengthen the financial position of multiemployer plans and to protect the PBGC. The most recent is the Multiemployer Pension Protection Act of (December) 2014 (MPRA).

One of the tenets of pension law has been that retirement benefits once accrued and vested are inviolable. They cannot be curtailed or rescinded. The MPRA allows the trustees of certain distressed multiemployer plans to reduce the benefits of active and inactive participants including retirees in pay status. This paper examines the developments leading up to the MPRA and the underlying problems of multiemployer pension plans and the PBGC.
Organizational Rituals, Communication, and the Question of Agency
Authors: Koschmann Matthew A. , McDonald James
Published: February 2015

This study explores the performative aspects of organizational rituals to explain their agentic capacity and understand how rituals participate in the accomplishment of organizational action. We develop an alternative framework of organizational rituals based on insights from communication theory and the literature on the communicative constitution of organization/ing (CCO) and demonstrate how rituals “make present” abstract representations of organizational power and value in ways that convey authority and bear down upon the activities and decisions of organizational members. This can be understood through a logic of “attribution and appropriation” that both constitutes rituals as actants and enables them to possess the actions of their participants. This represents a departure from previous research on organizational rituals but can also enhance our understanding of rituals, agency, and symbolic action in organizations—especially in terms of exploring sources of action and agency beyond human intentionality.
Synthesis and properties of modified PMR-matrix resin type polyimide and composite with non-carcinogenic diamine
Authors: Selladurai Madhiyan , Sarojadevi Muthusamy
Published: February 2015

Modified PMR prepolymer was prepared using the bis(3,5-dimethyl-4-amino phenyl)phenyl methane and characterized by elemental analysis and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), proton (1H) and carbon-13 (13C) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectral techniques. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis shows that melting and curing take place in the temperature range 205–230°C and 255–330°C, respectively. The uncured and cured prepolymer undergo two-step (317 and 347°C) and single-step (559°C) decomposition, respectively. The temperature of 10% weight loss and char yield at 1000°C were found to be 450°C and 36 wt%, respectively. FTIR and thermogravimetric analyses of the modified-PMR resin powder and fully imidized prepolymer, heat treated at different temperatures, reveal that imidization and cross linking happen in the temperature range 250–275°C and 275–325°C, respectively. The prepolymer was found to undergo photo-cross linking (271 nm). Carbon fibre (T300)-reinforced modified PMR composite was found to have a flexural strength of 469 MPa, flexural modulus of 50 GPa and interlaminar shear strength of 34 MPa.
Load spectrum modeling for tracked vehicles based on variational Bayesian inference
Authors: Wang Yanzhong , Zhu Chengli
Published: February 2015

The load spectrum is the basis of performing the reliability and fatigue life analysis for the structures of tracked vehicles. In order to obtain the load spectrum, the load cycles should be extracted from the measured or simulated load time history using rainflow counting method. After that, the distribution of the load cycles can be modeled by a continuous distribution function. For the purpose of finding a common modeling method and effective parameters’ estimation method for the load spectrum, we used a mixture of multivariate Gaussian functions to model the probability density function of general load time history on the basis of extracted load cycles. Additionally, we proposed an approach for unknown parameters’ estimation based on variational Bayesian inference. This parameter estimation method can automatically infer the number of components from the observed data set. Numerical examples were given to illustrate the effectiveness of our proposed modeling method and unknown parameters’ estimation method. We compared the distributions of the load cycles reconstructed by the load spectrum models with those of the original load cycles. At the same time, we obtained the quantitative optimal results of the parameters for the load cases. The results showed that the mixture Gaussian functions can model complex distribution of the rainflow load cycles for tracked vehicles by choosing suitable number of components and suitable parameters of them, and the variational Bayesian inference is an effective unknown parameters’ estimation method for the mixture models which have latent variables.
Investigations for the mechanical, macro-, and microstructural analyses of dissimilar submerged friction stir welding of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and polycarbonate sheets
Authors: Gao Jicheng , Shen Yifu , Xu Haisheng
Published: February 2015

In this article, the lap joint of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and polycarbonate is produced by submerged friction stir welding. The objective of this research work is to investigate the effect of welding parameters (rotational speed, traverse speed and plunge depth) on tensile strength. Maximization of weld strength (19.2 MPa) is achieved at a rotational speed of 1500 r/min, traverse speed of 40 mm/min and plunge depth of 1.0 mm. The macrostructure morphology and microstructure are analyzed using the optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The major defects of the joints are cracks, pores and voids, which are the main reasons for decreasing the tensile strength.
Lens injection moulding condition diagnosis and form error analysis using cavity pressure signals based on response surface methodology
Authors: Nam Jung Soo , Baek Dae Seong , Jo Hyoung Han , Song Jun Yeob , Ha Tae Ho , Lee Sang Won
Published: February 2015

In this article, the condition diagnosis and form error prediction models for lens injection moulding process are developed based on a response surface method by using features extracted from in-process cavity pressure signals. In the lens injection moulding experiments, cavity pressure signals are captured by pressure sensors embedded in a lens mould, and form errors of manufactured lenses are measured afterwards. Then, three features such as filling point, maximum pressure and inflection point pressure are identified from the measured cavity pressure profile, and they are used to formulate the response surface functions for each injection moulding condition. In addition, the response surface functions for the lens form error with the input variables of the above-mentioned three features are also formulated. It is reported that the overall average accuracies for the lens injection moulding condition diagnosis and form error estimation are better than 97% and 80%, respectively, in the actual industrial site.
Design and optimization of a new kind of hydraulic cylinder for mobile robots
Authors: Xue Yong , Yang JunHong , Shang JianZhong , Xie HuiXiang
Published: February 2015

In order to improve the efficiency of multi-actuator mobile robots hydraulic system, this paper proposes a new kind of cylinder whose effective area is variable. The new cylinder has multi chambers which can be connected with each other or to a main system circuit by controlling switching valves. On the one hand, the new cylinder can make sure that the load pressure of all actuators is almost equal through varying effective area. On the other hand, the new cylinder can realize the flow recovery through that return chambers are connected with feeding chambers. Therefore, the new cylinder can reduce overall machine energy consumption by reducing throttling losses and allowing energy recovery. The performance of the new cylinder is analyzed through building the mathematical model. Based on the evaluated results, in order to further improve the performance of the load match of the cylinder and avoid the deflection of the main piston, the structure of the cylinder is optimized. Finally, an optimized cylinder is shown in this paper which has well performance of the load match.
Estimation of required ground plan area for a tram depot
Authors: Chatziparaskeva Martha , Christogiannis Evangelos , Kidikoudis Christos , Pyrgidis Christos
Published: February 2015

This article proposes and develops a methodology that allows the estimation of the required minimum ground plan area for the facilities in a tramway depot, as well as the total area of the depot, taking into account the fleet size, tram length, number and type of performed activities. The study formulates simple mathematical equations to calculate the useful area of various depot installations in relation to the characteristics of the vehicle fleet (number and length of trams). It also presents tables of data, from which the total depot area can be estimated. Finally, the layouts of typical ground plans of tram depots are presented for tram fleets of between 15 and 83 vehicles and for tram lengths of 30, 35 and 40 m. From the presented results it is concluded that: (i) the construction of depots for 15 vehicles (very small depots) requires an area of 30–35 acres; (ii) the construction of depots for 45 vehicles (medium-sized depots) requires an area of 42–50 acres; and (iii) the construction of depots for 80 vehicles (large-sized depots) requires an area of 52–60 acres.
Calling the shots: Young professional women's relationship with alcohol
Authors: Watts Rosalind , Linke Stuart , Murray Elizabeth , Barker Chris
Published: February 2015

Alcohol consumption by young professional women is increasing. Whilst the media and public health campaigns have condemned this increase, societal attitudes and advertising discourses frame it as a display of “power femininity”. This qualitative study explored young professional women's “relationship with alcohol”: why they drank and how they felt about it. Twelve young professional women who reported drinking over official limits and had not sought professional help were recruited via UK public houses (drinking establishments, usually called pubs) and later interviewed. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Participants used alcohol to gain power; they saw drinking as a masculine ability demonstrating stamina, valued professionally and socially. However, women were also ashamed of their drinking; they felt criticised by health professionals and the media. Rather than perpetuating a blaming and shaming discourse, it may be important to counteract social norms associating alcohol use with power and sobriety with weakness.
Neural network gain-scheduling sliding mode control for three-dimensional trajectory tracking of robotic airships
Authors: Yang Yueneng , Yan Ye
Published: February 2015

This article proposed a novel control approach for trajectory tracking of robotic airships. First, the nonlinear dynamics model of a robotic airship is derived and formulated. Second, a sliding mode controller is designed to track the commanded trajectory for its robustness against parametric variations and external disturbances. To address the chattering problem results from the sliding mode controller, a radial basis function neural network is adopted to construct the neural network self-gain-scheduling sliding mode controller in which the control gains are scheduled synchronously with the sliding surface via radial basis function neural network according to the learning algorithm, with switching sliding surface and its differential as radial basis function neural network inputs and control gains as radial basis function neural network outputs. In addition, the stability and convergence of the closed-loop controller are proven using the Lyapunov stability theorem. Finally, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed controller are demonstrated via numerical simulations. Contrasting simulation results indicate that the neural network self-gain-scheduling sliding mode controller attenuates the chattering effectively and has better performance against the sliding mode controller.
Stem cell intervention ameliorates epigallocatechin-3-gallate/lipopolysaccharide-induced hepatotoxicity in mice
Authors: Saleh IG , Ali Z , Hammad MA , Wilson FD , Hamada FM , Abd-Ellah MF , Walker LA , Khan IA , Ashfaq MK
Published: February 2015

Stem cells are identified as a novel cell therapy for regenerative medicine because of their ability to differentiate into many functional cell types. We have shown earlier a new model of hepatotoxicity in mice by administering (1500 mg/kg) epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) intragastric (IG) for 5 days after a single intraperitoneal dose (6 mg/kg) of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In this study, we aimed to study the effect of intrahepatic (IH) injection of mouse embryonic stem cells (MESCs) on the hepatotoxicity induced by EGCG/LPS in mice. Mice were administered EGCG/LPS and rested for 3 days. MESCs were obtained from American Type Culture Collection and cultured in vitro for 4 days. Stem cells were injected IH. Seven days later, a single dose of LPS (6 mg/kg) followed by daily doses of IG administration of EGCG were re-administered for 5 days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for analysis of biochemical parameters associated with liver. Results showed that the group of mice that were administered MESCs prior to EGCG/LPS showed lower levels of alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and bilirubin, higher albumin/globulin ratio, and less remarkable histopathological lesions. Also, that group of mice showed less expression of oxidative stress biomarkers (oxidized low-density lipoprotein Ox.LDL and chemokine CXCL16), less expression of nuclear protein receptors (retinoic acid receptor and retinoid X receptor), and less expression of inflammatory biomarkers (tumor necrosis factor α and transforming growth factor β1) compared with other groups of mice that were not given MESCs. In conclusion, MESCs can ameliorate EGCG/LPS-induced hepatotoxicity in mice.
Childhood lupus nephritis in a developing country—24 years' single-center experience from North India
Authors: Singh S , Abujam B , Gupta A , Suri D , Rawat A , Saikia B , Minz R Walker , Joshi K , Nada R
Published: February 2015

Objective

Data on outcome of childhood lupus nephritis from developing countries are sparse. This study looks at outcome in children with lupus nephritis from a federal government-funded teaching hospital in North India.

Methods

This study included children less than 14 years of age with lupus nephritis who presented to a single center during a period of 24 years (1991 to 2013). Data on clinical characteristics and outcome were extracted from medical records. The primary outcome was actuarial survival (time-to-death) and secondary outcome was actuarial renal survival using Kaplan-Meier analysis. A worst-case scenario that assumed children who were lost to follow-up as having either died or gone into end-stage renal disease was also calculated. Log-rank test and Cox-regression were used to assess difference in survival by histological class and predictors of poor outcome, respectively.

Results

This study included 72 children, with a female:male ratio of 3:1, mean (±SD) age at onset of lupus 9.3 (±2.4) years and mean (±SD) time from onset-to-nephritis being 9.4 (±12.6) months. Renal biopsy was conducted in 53 children. The most common histological class was class IV (35 children). Mortality occurred in 22 children (30%), with half of these occurring at presentation. The two important causes of death were infection and end-stage renal disease. Actuarial survival was 81%, 67% and 59% at one, five and 10 years, respectively. In the worst-case scenario, actuarial survival was 72%, 53% and 38%, respectively. Renal survival was 96%, 89% and 78% (worst-case scenario 86%, 73% and 52%) at one, five and 10 years, respectively. There was no difference in survival by histological class. On univariate analysis, serum creatinine at presentation (hazard ratio = 2.2 (95% CI 1.3–3.9)) and serious infection (hazard ratio 7.9 (95% CI 2.6–23.5)) were statistically significant predictors of time-to-death.

Conclusion

Outcome of children with lupus nephritis from India is worse than developed countries. Nearly one-third of the children died, half at presentation, with common causes being infection and end-stage renal disease.
Differences between clinical and laboratory findings in patients with recent diagnosis of SLE according to the positivity of anti-dsDNA by the Crithidia luciliae method
Authors: Sarbu M I , Salman-Monte T C , Rubio Muñoz P , Lisbona M P , Bernabé M Almirall , Carbonell J
Published: February 2015

Background

Of all anti-dsDNA antibody detection methods, the Crithidia luciliae immunofluorescence test (CLIF) is considered to have the highest specificity for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Objective

The objective of this report is to evaluate whether the presence of anti-dsDNA antibodies detected by the CLIF method is associated with a specific clinical phenotype in recently diagnosed SLE.

Methods

This retrospective cross-sectional study included all patients with newly diagnosed SLE between 1990 and 2011 and followed up in our institution. Demographic, clinical and laboratory findings were assessed. Correlations between positivity of anti-dsDNA by the CLIF method, clinical and laboratory data were analyzed.

Results

A total of 104 patients were included in the analysis. Patients who were positive for anti-dsDNA by the CLIF method at the time of diagnosis had (statistically) significantly higher titers of anti-dsDNA by the ELISA method, antinuclear (ANA) and anticardiolipin antibodies, lymphopenia and complement consumption compared with the other two groups. Also they presented significantly more musculoskeletal symptoms at baseline.

Conclusion

The presence of anti-dsDNA by the CLIF method in newly diagnosed SLE was associated with certain markers of increased disease activity. Its use could be a useful biomarker for a specific clinical phenotype suggestive of a more severe involvement at the time of the diagnosis.
Magnetic resonance imaging findings are useful for evaluating the three-dimensional development and follow-up of linear lupus erythematosus profundus
Authors: Ogawa M , Muro Y , Sugiura K , Sakakibara A , Akiyama M
Published: February 2015

Lupus erythematosus profundus (LEP), which is a variant of chronic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE), is seen in approximately 2∼3% of CLE patients, and only 10% to 20% of LEP patients present with systemic LE (SLE). LEP shows subcutaneous nodules with or without discoid LE (DLE). Linear LEP, a very rare variant of LEP, was first reported in 1991 in Japanese and in 1998 in English. Since LEP sometimes leaves skin depressions or scars as a result of atrophy of adipose tissue, early and adequate treatments are necessary. Here, we introduce an LEP case in which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was quite effective in evaluating a lesion that had been considered to be linear DLE.
Estimation of causal effects of binary treatments in unconfounded studies with one continuous covariate
Authors: Gutman R , Rubin DB
Published: February 2015

The estimation of causal effects in nonrandomized studies should comprise two distinct phases: design, with no outcome data available; and analysis of the outcome data according to a specified protocol. Here, we review and compare point and interval estimates of common statistical procedures for estimating causal effects (i.e. matching, subclassification, weighting, and model-based adjustment) with a scalar continuous covariate and a scalar continuous outcome. We show, using an extensive simulation, that some highly advocated methods have poor operating characteristics. In many conditions, matching for the point estimate combined with within-group matching for sampling variance estimation, with or without covariance adjustment, appears to be the most efficient valid method of those evaluated. These results provide new conclusions and advice regarding the merits of currently used procedures.
Learning to be a ‘goody-goody’: Ethics and performativity in high school elite athlete programmes
Authors: Brown Seth
Published: February 2015

Over the past few decades, New Zealand schools have started elite athlete programmes (EAPs) to develop talented sportspeople. The purpose of this study was to evaluate teachers/coaches and elite athletes’ perspectives of their learning experiences in two EAPs. Ball’s concept of performativity and Gore’s techniques of power were integral in examining the relationships between power, knowledge and social practices. The results showed that the EAPs emphasised corporate values of loyalty, self-sacrifice and work ethic and perpetuated the dichotomies of theory/practice, thinking/doing and mind/body discourses that assisted in the marginalised academic status of the EAP. Most of the elite athletes struggled to reconcile their athletic identity with their teenage identity as they sacrificed time with friends, pleasures such as frozen colas and other pursuits to be role models for younger athletes and others in their community.
The “Conflicted Dying”
Authors: Mohammed Shan , Peter Elizabeth , Gastaldo Denise , Howell Doris
Published: February 2015

Using a poststructural perspective, we examine the subjectivities that are produced when advanced cancer patients seek life extension through biomedical treatments. Seven case studies were developed that included 20 interviews with patients, family, nurses, and physicians recruited from a tertiary hospital in Canada, 30 documents, and 5 hours of participant observation. We identify seven types of subjectivity: (a) the Desperate Subject, (b) the Cancer Expert Subject, (c) the Proactive Subject, (d) the Productive Subject, (e) the Mistrusting Subject, (f) the Model Patient Subject, and (g) the Suffering Subject. We characterize the “conflicted dying,” a contemporary figure who holds multiple perspectives about seeking curative treatment despite the acknowledgment of death. Using active strategies to gain access to treatment, this figure resists traditional arrangements of power/knowledge established by health care providers. We suggest that the search for life extension is a process of shaping the self to fit certain aesthetical traits associated with surviving cancer.
Rape Survivors’ Experiences of the Silent Protest
Authors: Padmanabhanunni Anita , Edwards David
Published: February 2015

This article examines the experiences of nine rape survivors who participated in the Silent Protest, an annual protest march at Rhodes University that aims to highlight the sexual abuse of women, validate the harm done, and foster solidarity among survivors. Participants responded to a semi-structured interview focusing on the context of their rape and its impact, and their experiences of participation in the Protest. In the first phase of data analysis, synoptic case narratives were written. In the second, themes from participants’ experience were identified using interpretative phenomenological analysis. In the third, the data were examined in light of questions around the extent to which participation contributed to healing. Participants reported experiences of validation and empowerment but the majority were suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder. In some cases, participation had exacerbated self-blame and avoidant coping. Recommendations are made about the provision of psychoeducation and counseling at such events.
Implementing Service Learning in Pre-Service Teacher Coursework
Authors: Hildenbrand Susan M. , Schultz Susan M.
Published: February 2015

Service learning remains a topic of interest in higher education. It has become more prevalent in teacher preparation programs with the intent of providing the opportunity for pre-service teachers to become engaged with individuals who have different life experiences than their own. Lessons can be learned through a review of the literature and the examination of existing models of service learning, including an honest discussion of the advantages and potential barriers for all stakeholders.
Proximal Supination Osteotomy of the First Metatarsal for Hallux Valgus
Authors: Yasuda Toshito , Okuda Ryuzo , Jotoku Tsuyoshi , Shima Hiroaki , Hida Takashi , Neo Masashi
Published: February 2015

Background:

Risk factors for hallux valgus recurrence include postoperative round-shaped lateral edge of the first metatarsal head and postoperative incomplete reduction of the sesamoids. To prevent the occurrence of such conditions, we developed a proximal supination osteotomy of the first metatarsal. Our aim was to describe this novel technique and report the outcomes in this report.

Methods:

Sixty-six patients (83 feet) underwent a distal soft tissue procedure combined with a proximal supination osteotomy. After the proximal crescentic osteotomy, the proximal fragment was pushed medially, and the distal fragment was abducted, and then the distal fragment of the first metatarsal was manually supinated. Outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and radiographic examinations. The average follow-up duration was 34 (range, 25 to 52) months.

Results:

The mean AOFAS score improved significantly from 58.0 points preoperatively to 93.8 points postoperatively ( P < .0001). The mean hallux valgus and intermetatarsal angle decreased significantly from 38.6 and 18.0 degrees preoperatively to 11.0 and 7.9 degrees postoperatively, respectively (both, P < .0001). Sixty-nine feet (69/83, 83%) had a positive round sign preoperatively, and 66 feet (66/83, 80%) had a negative round sign postoperatively. According to the Hardy’s classification of position of the sesamoids, all feet were classified as grade V or greater preoperatively, and 49 feet (49/83, 59%) were classified as grade IV or less postoperatively. Three feet (3/83, 4%) had recurrence of hallux valgus, defined as a hallux valgus angle ≥ 25 degrees.

Conclusion:

The rates of occurrence of a positive round sign and incomplete reduction of the sesamoids significantly decreased postoperatively, which may have contributed to the low hallux valgus recurrence rates. We conclude that a proximal supination osteotomy was an effective procedure for correction of hallux valgus and can achieve a low rate of hallux valgus recurrence.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Why Do Lesser Toes Deviate Laterally in Hallux Valgus? A Radiographic Study
Authors: Roan Li-Yi , Tanaka Yasuhito , Taniguchi Akira , Tomiwa Kiyonori , Kumai Tsukasa , Cheng Yuh-Min
Published: February 2015

Background:

Hallux valgus foot with laterally deviated lesser toes is a complex condition to treat. Ignoring the laterally deviated lesser toes in hallux valgus might result in unsatisfactory foot shape. Without lateral support of the lesser toes, it might increase the risk of recurrence of hallux valgus. We sought to identify associated radiographic findings in patients where lesser toes follow the great toe in hallux valgus and deviate laterally.

Methods:

The weight-bearing, anteroposterior foot radiographs of 24 female hallux valgus feet with laterally deviated lesser toes (group L), 34 female hallux valgus feet with normal lesser toes (group H), and 43 normal female feet (group N) were selected for the study. A 2-dimensional coordinated system was used to analyze the shapes and angles of these feet by converting each dot made on the radiographs onto X and Y coordinates. Diagrams of the feet in each group were drawn for comparison. The hallux valgus angle, lateral deviation angle of the second toe, intermetatarsal angles, toe length, metatarsal length, and metatarsus adductus were calculated according to the coordinates of the corresponding points.

Results:

The mapping showed the bases of the second, third, and fourth toe in group L shifted laterally away from their corresponding metatarsal head ( P < .001). The mean 2-3 intermetatarsal angles were: group L, H, N = 7.7 ± 2.6, 4.3 ± 1.9, 4.3 ± 1.3 degrees, respectively (P < .001); mean 3-4 intermetatarsal angles were, for groups L, H, N = 7.3 ± 2.3, 6.1 ± 2.1, 6.3 ± 1.4 degrees, respectively ( P < .05). Larger hallux valgus angles ( P < .001), more adducted first metatarsal ( P < .05), and divergent lateral splaying of the lesser metatarsals ( P < .001) were found in group L.

Conclusion:

Larger 2-3 and 3-4 intermetatarsal angles, larger hallux valgus angle, more adducted first metatarsal, and divergent lateral splaying of the lesser metatarsals were associated with lateral deviation of the lesser toes in hallux valgus.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative study.
What Does the Shipley-2 Measure for Children and Adolescents? Integrated and Conjoint Confirmatory Factor Analysis With the WISC-IV
Authors: Reynolds Matthew R. , Hajovsky Daniel B. , Pace Jesse R. , Niileksela Christopher R.
Published: February 2015

We used integrated and conjoint confirmatory factor analysis of Shipley-2 and Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) data to investigate constructs measured in the Shipley-2 for children and adolescents. We also estimated Shipley-2 composite reliability at the subtest level rather than the item level. The three Shipley-2 subtests for the most part measured what was described in the manual, although Block Patterns measured visual spatial ability in addition to fluid ability and Abstraction was best considered a measure of psychometric g. The g factors derived from the WISC-IV and Shipley-2 were similar but not identical. Internal reliability estimates for Shipley-2 composites that were based on correlations between the subtests were substantially lower than those based on the items. Last, based on WISC-IV derived g factors, 37% to 53% of the variance in Shipley-2 composites was explained by g. Some of the reliable variance in the Shipley-2 composites was due to something specific that the subtests had in common not explained by psychometric g.
Platelet Aggregation Study in Patients With Hemoglobin Eβ Thalassemia in India
Authors: Ghosal Tanushree , Dolai Tuphan Kanti , Mandal Prakas Kumar , Karthik S. , Bandyopadhyay Anjali
Published: February 2015

Hemoglobin Eβ thalassemia is a major public health problem in India, especially in the state of West Bengal. Various thromboembolic events are common, especially in splenectomized patients. Platelet hyperactivity most likely plays a pathogenetic role. To investigate the role of platelets in hypercoagulability, platelet aggregation tests were undertaken in the present study. Platelet-rich plasma from 30 patients with Eβ thalassemia (15 splenectomized and 15 nonsplenectomized) were studied and compared with 15 healthy participants. The 4 agonists used were adenosine 5-diphosphate, adrenaline (epinephrine), collagen, and ristocetin. The current study shows both splenectomized and nonsplenectomized patients had abnormal aggregation compared to normal healthy controls. Splenectomized patients had higher platelet aggregation than nonsplenectomized patients for all 4 agonists; but statistically significant difference among 2 groups was found only for collagen. The present study confirms a role of splenic absence in platelet hyperaggregation.