bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From phrenology to the laboratory
Authors: Quick Tom
Published: June 2014

The claim that mind is an epiphenomenon of the nervous system became academically respectable during the 19th century. The same period saw the establishment of an ideal of science as institutionalized endeavour conducted in laboratories. This article identifies three ways in which the ‘physiological psychology’ movement in Britain contributed to the latter process: first, via an appeal to the authority of difficult-to-access sites in the analysis of nerves; second, through the constitution of a discourse internal to it that privileged epistemology over ontology; and third, in its articulation of a set of rhetorical tools that identified laboratories as economically productive institutions. Acknowledging the integral place of physiological psychology in the institution of science, it is claimed, has the potential to alter our understanding of the significance of current neurological science for historical scholarship.
Turn-milling of blades in turning centres and multitasking machines controlling tool tilt angle
Authors: Calleja Amaia , Fernández Asier , Rodríguez Adrián , de Lacalle L Norberto López , Lamikiz Aitzol
Published: June 2014

The machining of high–added value blades represents a challenge due to the parts’ complex geometry and tight tolerances. Blades are common in the aeronautic, energy or automotive sectors. Nowadays, there is a strong trend towards the integration of all machining operations in the same machine tool platform; this is the so-called multitasking machining. The main advantage is that the part reference system is maintained along all the operations, and it also achieves shorter production lead times. However, milling operations have to be programmed for being performed in machines with a general lathe structure, which must be solved.

For this reason, in this work, advanced programming for the production of blades in turning centres and multitasking machines is developed. Blade machining is developed by successive techniques. This article mainly focuses on the study of the optimal machining strategy for blades turn-milling. For that purpose, different strategies and tilt angles have been tested and applied initially to a test part and finally to a real part. The proposed methodology has been applied to a blade case study in order to obtain the best parameters and toolpath strategies for blades machining. They represent the main novelty and article contribution.
Implicit Self-Evaluations Predict Changes in Implicit Partner Evaluations
Authors: McNulty James K. , Baker Levi R. , Olson Michael A.
Published: June 2014

Do people who feel good about themselves have better relations with others? Although the notion that they do is central to both classic and modern theories, there is little strong evidence to support it. We argue that one reason for the lack of evidence is that prior research has relied exclusively on explicit measures of self- and relationship evaluation. The current longitudinal study of newlywed couples used implicit measures of self- and partner evaluation, as well as explicit measures of self-, relationship, and partner evaluation, to examine the link between self-evaluations and changes in relationship evaluations over the first 3 years of marriage. Whereas explicit self-evaluations were unrelated to changes in all interpersonal measures, implicit self-evaluations positively predicted changes in implicit partner evaluations. This finding adds to previous research by highlighting the importance of automatic processes and implicit measures in the study of close interpersonal relationships.
Ticagrelor Use in a Patient With a Documented Clopidogrel Hypersensitivity
Authors: Harris Justin R. , Coons James C.
Published: June 2014

Objective: To report the use of ticagrelor in a patient with a documented hypersensitivity reaction to clopidogrel. Case Summary: A 64-year-old woman presented with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) with a history significant for a hypersensitivity reaction to clopidogrel and was medically managed. Based on the patient’s past medical history and current evidence available, the determination was made to use ticagrelor in this patient. Ticagrelor was administered without reaction during the hospital stay and on assessment at 2 and 4 weeks postdischarge. Discussion: Hypersensitivity occurs in approximately 1% of patients receiving clopidogrel. Although the risk of hypersensitivity reaction to clopidogrel is low, evidence to support alternative antiplatelets in this setting is relatively limited. Prasugrel has a similar structure to clopidogrel and, therefore, may cross-react. Furthermore, prasugrel is not recommended in the medical management of NSTEMI. Ticagrelor is a newer P2Y12 inhibitor that contains a cyclopentyltriazolopyrimidine structure. Because of the difference in structure, a lower theoretical risk of cross-reactivity with the thienopyridines would be anticipated. However, there are no reports to date that investigate the use of this agent in patients with a documented thienopyridine allergy. Conclusions: The current case report describes the use of ticagrelor in a patient with documented hypersensitivity to clopidogrel. In this patient, ticagrelor was well tolerated during hospital admission and at 2 and 4 weeks postdischarge following administration.
“Triple Phase” Budesonide Capsules for the Treatment of Olmesartan-Induced Enteropathy
Authors: Hartranft Megan E. , Regal Randolph E.
Published: June 2014

Objective: To describe the treatment of a case of olmesartan-induced enteropathy in a patient with inflammatory areas widely distributed along the gastrointestinal tract. Case Summary: A 75-year-old patient presented with a 5-month history of recurrent severe diarrhea, diagnosed as olmesartan-induced enteropathy. A modified regimen of oral enteric-coated budesonide (EC-BUD), in combination with other antidiarrheal and anti-inflammatory therapies, was prescribed. The patient experienced rapid improvement in symptoms and was able to titrate off all enteropathy medications, including budesonide within 4 months after hospital discharge. Discussion: Olmesartan-induced enteropathy is a recently identified adverse effect of this angiotensin II receptor blocker. Oral budesonide is indicated for use in Crohn’s disease to provide topical anti-inflammatory therapy without significant systemic steroid absorption. Budesonide, as enteric-coated oral 3-mg capsules, was chosen as therapy in this patient because of its localized effect and proven efficacy in gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders. The administration technique was modified to target areas of inflammation throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Conclusions: We postulate that this modified administration of EC-BUD may be an effective therapeutic modality for olmesartan-induced enteropathy. It may likewise be an appropriate adjunct to other conditions involving widespread gastrointestinal inflammation, including eosinophilic gastroenteritis and gastrointestinal graft versus host disease.
Comparative Analysis of Gene Expression in Normal and Degenerative Human Tendon Cells
Authors: Choi Woo Jin , Park Min Sung , Park Kwang Hwan , Courneya Jean-Paul , Cho Jin Sun , Schon Lew C. , Lee Jin Woo
Published: June 2014

Background:

Tendinopathy is a clinical problem for which treatment shows mixed results and treatment options are limited. Gene expression signatures early in the mechanotransduction pathway can accurately predict risk and correlate with different clinical outcomes. Studies aimed at elucidating the molecular mechanisms of tendinopathy have focused on small cohorts of genes that show an incomplete picture of the degeneration process. This study compared the effect of cyclic strain on gene expression in tendon cells from normal tendon and chronically painful areas of tendinopathy in 3 patients.

Methods:

We measured a panel of mechanotransduction genes and cytoskeletal tensional balance with and without cyclic strain, which disrupts connective tissue synthetic-degradative equilibrium. Normal and degenerative tendons were obtained from patients undergoing surgery to treat chronic painful tendinopathy. A cyclic strain model was established to measure cytoskeletal tensional homeostasis.

Results:

Prior to cyclic strain, the normal tendon cells exhibited varying patterns of elevated expression of 7 genes compared with degenerative tendon cells. In response to cyclic strain, gene expression of COL1A1, ITGA6, CTNNA1, and CLEC3B was up-regulated in normal tendon cells. Cyclic strain had no effect on degenerative tendon cells. Cyclic strain exacerbated the inhibition of protein synthesis in both cell types, especially in the degenerative tendon cells.

Conclusion:

Alterations in the pattern of gene expression are suggestive of a dynamic equilibrium between synthesis and degradation, whereby cell adhesion molecules are predominantly up-regulated to facilitate cellular reorientation in response to their altered functional environment.

Clinical Relevance:

These data might have future applications, including the identification of markers for early diagnosis, targets for drug design, and indicators for treatment responsiveness and prognosis.
Extraction and characterization of gelatin from two edible Sudanese insects and its applications in ice cream making
Authors: Mariod Abdalbasit Adam , Fadul Hadia
Published: June 2014

Three methods were used for extraction of gelatin from two insects, melon bug ( Coridius viduatus) and sorghum bug ( Agonoscelis versicoloratus versicoloratus). Extraction of insect gelatin using hot water gave higher yield reached up to 3.0%, followed by mild acid extraction which gave 1.5% and distilled water extraction which gave only 1.0%, respectively. The obtained gelatins were characterized by FTIR and the spectra of insect’s gelatin seem to be similar when compared with commercial gelatin. Amide II bands of gelatins from melon and sorghum bug appeared around at 1542–1537 cm−1. Slight differences in the amino acid composition of gelatin extracted from the two insects were observed. Ice cream was made by using 0.5% insect’s gelatin and compared with that made using 0.5% commercial gelatin as stabilizing agent. The properties of the obtained ice cream produced using insects gelatin were significantly different when compared with that made using commercial gelatin.
Evaluating Change in Social Skills in High-Functioning Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder Using a Laboratory-Based Observational Measure
Authors: White Susan W. , Scarpa Angela , Conner Caitlin M. , Maddox Brenna B. , Bonete Saray
Published: June 2014

Despite the impact of social disability on the lives of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs), we know little about how to assess clinical improvement in this domain. This is a preliminary study of the potential utility and sensitivity of a novel observational rating system, the Contextual Assessment of Social Skills (CASS), as a treatment outcome measure with cognitively unimpaired adults with ASD. Five cognitively unimpaired adults with ASD completed the CASS, before and after a group social skills intervention. Based on ratings made by evaluators masked to assessment (pre-treatment or post-treatment), reliable change indices were computed to assess improvement. Four participants demonstrated significant improvement in conversational involvement, two initiated significantly more topic changes, and one asked more questions. Laboratory-based observational measures, such as the CASS, may be useful in clinical trials for adults with ASD, though further evaluation with larger samples is required.
Evaluation of Fever and Infections in Cardiac Surgery Patients
Authors: Rhee Chanu , Sax Paul Edward
Published: June 2014

Fever following cardiac surgery is common and may be infectious or noninfectious in etiology. In this article, we review the major causes of postoperative fever while highlighting special considerations in cardiac surgery patients. We also outline a structured approach to evaluation and present an overview of diagnostic and management considerations for mediastinitis, postpericardiotomy syndrome, prosthetic valve endocarditis, aortic vascular graft infections, and ventricular assist device infections.
Accreditation of Professional Preparation Programs for School Health Educators
Authors: Taub Alyson , Goekler Susan , Auld M. Elaine , Birch David A. , Muller Susan , Wengert Deitra , Allegrante John P.
Published: June 2014

The health education profession is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality assurance, including accreditation of professional preparation programs in both school and community/public health education. Since 2001, the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE) has increased attention to strengthening accreditation processes for preservice programs. This article focuses on the preparation of school health educators and the evolving philosophies and approaches concerning quality assurance, with particular attention to recent changes in teacher education and national professional accreditation entities. The unification of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) and the Teacher Education Accreditation Council (TEAC) to form the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) as the single voice for teacher accreditation presents an opportunity to create a model unified accreditation system. Such a system can improve and enhance the stature of the teaching profession, raise expectations and the performance standards for teacher education candidates, and strengthen the standards for the evidence used to support claims of quality. During this transition period from NCATE and TEAC to CAEP, a School Health Education Accreditation Working Group convened by SOPHE recommended to the SOPHE Board of Trustees that SOPHE urge health education professionals to monitor and provide input into the emerging standards and processes for school health educator program accreditation. The Working Group also recommended that both health education professionals and the stakeholder professional organizations advocate for strong quality assurance standards for school health educator professional preparation programs. The Working Group anticipates future changes in quality assurance processes and curricula to keep pace with new accreditation requirements and the results from the latest role delineation research for health education specialists.
Groove location for optimum performance of three- and four-lobe bearings using genetic algorithm
Authors: Roy Lintu , Kakoty SK
Published: June 2014

This paper presents the various arrangements of grooving location of three- and four-lobe oil journal bearing for optimum performance. An attempt has been made to find out the effect of different configurations of three- and four-lobe oil journal bearing by changing groove locations. The Reynolds equation is solved numerically in a finite difference grid satisfying the appropriate boundary conditions. Determination of optimum performance is based on maximization of non-dimensional load, flow coefficient and mass parameter and minimization of friction variable using genetic algorithm. The optimum groove locations arrived at are not at symmetrical position, which is the current practice. The present analysis is carried out and results are obtained for ellipticity ratio equal to 0.5.
Abrasive wear, thermal and viscoelastic behaviors of rubber seal materials used in different working conditions
Authors: Feyzullahoğlu Erol
Published: June 2014

The rubber seals are used in different applications such as hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, compressors, pumps, and internal combustion engines. When the seals contact with powder and pollutants during the service life, the abrasive wear occurs. The wear of rubber seals causes leakage of oil and also reduces durability of bearings. In hydraulic systems, the rubber seals are usually exposed to high temperatures. All types of rubbers are susceptible to chemical attack of varying degrees. The interaction between oil and elastomer and its influence on friction and wear behavior of elastomer has an important role in sealing performance. The rubber seals can be subjected to compressive stresses in working conditions. In this study, the influence of different working conditions such as oil, acid, and accelerated ageing on abrasive wear behaviors of several rubber seal materials such as nitrile butadiene rubber, fluoro rubber, and chloroprene rubber was investigated and the thermal and viscoelastic properties of these materials researched. Thermogravimetric analysis and compression set tests were performed to determine thermal degradations and viscoelastic properties of specimens. In this study, thermal treatments increase the hardness values of rubber specimens. The heat treatment and accelerated ageing reduced volume loss and wear rate values of all specimens. The acidic circumstances decreased the wear resistance of all specimens. Fluoro rubber specimen has more thermal stability than other tested rubbers and can be used reliantly at high temperatures. As nitrile butadiene rubber has low residual deformation value at elevated temperatures, it can be more preferred as seal material than other rubbers. When the results of this work are interpreted, the rubber seal materials which are made from nitrile butadiene rubber and fluoro rubber can be chosen for different working conditions.
The autonomic balance predicts cardiac responses after the first dose of fingolimod
Authors: Rossi S , Rocchi C , Studer V , Motta C , Lauretti B , Germani G , Macchiarulo G , Marfia GA , Centonze D
Published: June 2014

Background:

Predictive markers of cardiac side effects would be helpful for the stratification and individualized monitoring of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients prescribed with fingolimod.

Objective:

To test whether the autonomic balance predicts a cardiac response after the first dose of fingolimod.

Methods:

A total of 55 consecutive relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients underwent ‘head-up tilt’, Valsalva maneuver, deep breathing and handgrip tests before their first dose of fingolimod. The normalized unit of the high frequency (HF) component (HF normalized units; HFnu), reflecting mostly vagal activity; and the low frequency (LF) component (LF normalized units; LFnu) reflecting mostly sympathetic activity, were considered for the analysis of heart rate (HR) variability. The patients’ HR and electrocardiographic parameters ((the interval between P wave and ventricular depolarization (PR); the interval between Q and T waves (QT)) were recorded during 6-hour post-dose monitoring.

Results:

We found significant correlations between measures of parasympathetic function and fingolimod-induced bradycardia. Subjects with higher Valsalva ratio and HR variation during deep breathing had, in fact, nadir HR ≤ 50 beats/minute (bpm) after the first fingolimod dose. Conversely, significant negative correlations were found between measures of sympathetic function and fingolimod-induced PR interval increase. Subjects with lower LFnu at rest and less increase of blood pressure on the handgrip test showed a PR interval increase > 20 ms after fingolimod.

Conclusions:

Assessing autonomic control of cardiovascular functions can be useful to predict cardiac effects after the first fingolimod dose.
Checklists, global health and surgery: a five-year checkup of the WHO Surgical Safety checklist programme
Authors: Perry WRG , Kelley ET
Published: June 2014

The WHO Surgical Safety Checklist has become a high-profile symbol for patient safety efforts in surgery. Since the landmark study by Haynes et al. 1 documenting its success at reducing peri-operative morbidity and mortality in a diversity of settings, others have gone on to show positive effects of the checklist on teamwork, communication, and patient outcomes. The widespread dissemination of the checklist has now allowed for a more global analysis of its role in surgery, and has highlighted two key points: first, the success of the checklist relies on effective and appropriate implementation; and second, the checklist needs to be introduced as part of a broader patient safety movement. Beyond universal challenges with implementation, some questions have been asked about its applicability to low- and middle-income countries. WHO acknowledges that checklist implementation in such settings needs to be well considered; limited availability of resources and less structure around patient safety provides a different context for effective use. Further research needs to be undertaken to better understand what if any modifications need to be made. WHO also hope to better coordinate patient safety efforts with the global surgery movement to maximize the effect of the checklist and improve surgical safety in low- and middle-income countries.
Video-otoscopy recordings for diagnosis of childhood ear disease using telehealth at primary health care level
Authors: Biagio Leigh , Swanepoel De Wet , Laurent Claude , Lundberg Thorbjörn
Published: June 2014

We studied the diagnoses made by an otologist and general practitioner (GP) from video-otoscopy recordings on children made by a telehealth facilitator. The gold standard was otomicroscopy by an experienced otologist. A total of 140 children (mean age 6.4 years; 44% female) were recruited from a primary health care clinic. Otomicroscopic examination was performed by an otologist. Video-otoscopy recordings were assigned random numbers and stored on a server. Four and eight weeks later, an otologist and a GP independently graded and made a diagnosis from each video recording. The otologist rated the quality of the video-otoscopy recordings as acceptable or better in 87% of cases. A diagnosis could not be made from the video-otoscopy recordings in 18% of ears in which successful onsite otomicroscopy was conducted. There was substantial agreement between diagnoses made from video-otoscopy recordings and those from onsite otomicroscopy (first review: otologist κ = 0.70 and GP κ = 0.68; second review: otologist κ = 0.74 and GP κ = 0.75). There was also substantial inter-rater agreement (κ = 0.74 and 0.74 at the two reviews) and intra-rater agreement (κ = 0.77 and 0.74 for otologist and GP, respectively). A telehealth facilitator, with limited training, can acquire video-otoscopy recordings in children for asynchronous diagnosis. Remote diagnosis was similar to face-to-face diagnosis in inter- and intra-rater variability.
Understanding pandemic influenza behaviour: An exploratory biopsychosocial study
Authors: Flowers Paul , Davis Mark , Lohm Davina , Waller Emily , Stephenson Niamh
Published: June 2014

Pandemic influenza represents an ongoing public health threat. Understanding the associated behavioural domain is vital for future intervention development. Cross-sectional qualitative research employing purposive sampling employed a combination of one-to-one semi-structured interviews ( n = 57) and focus groups ( n = 59). Data were analysed using (1) inductive thematic analysis and (2) theoretical thematic analysis focusing upon resonance with psychosocial and sociocultural constructs. Two broad themes highlighted an important duality regarding the determinants of pandemic behaviour: (1) psychosocial determinants (e.g. agency, cognitions and identity) and (2) sociocultural determinants (e.g. social context and capacity). These findings suggest this duality should shape future intervention development.
Multi-body dynamics and noise analysis for the torsional vibration of a power-split hybrid driveline
Authors: Zhang Jianwu , Tang Xiaolin , Yu Haisheng , Zou Liang
Published: June 2014

Two dynamic models are established to study the torsional vibration and noise characteristics of a power-split hybrid driveline. One is developed using mathematical rotational motion of the driveline components in matrix form. The other dynamic model of the hybrid driveline is built in the multi-body dynamic software ADAMS. The natural frequencies and vibration modes computed from the two methods show a remarkable agreement. Moreover, the noise source identification for the power-split hybrid driveline is also undertaken according to the acoustic measures on the test bench. This study can provide a valuable reference to the development of hybrid electric vehicle in the future.
Lost in a house of mirrors: Journalists come to terms with myth and reality in The Newsroom
Authors: Koliska Michael , Eckert Stine
Published: June 2014

The first season of the television drama The Newsroom drew predominantly negative critiques by journalists. A textual analysis of The Newsroom’s first season and more than 90 articles in US news media about that season showed that journalists rejected the idealistic depiction of the journalism profession. Applying new institutional theory and the concepts of decoupling/coupling, we argue journalists criticized such a depiction because it clashed with their own institutional myth that is understood to legitimize journalism to the broader public. Journalists’ mostly negative responses were an attempt to rhetorically restore this myth by decoupling it from journalistic practice.
Thermal analysis of e-textile structures using full-factorial experimental design method
Authors: Sezgin Hande , Bahadir Senem Kursun , Boke Y Erhan , Kalaoglu Fatma
Published: June 2014

e-Textiles are structures that have properties such as sensing, actuating, communicating, and generating/storing power. Since e-textile structures may be in contact with skin, it is essential to have low temperatures when they are functioning. In this article, temperatures obtained on the e-textile structures were analyzed by taking into account weave type, linear resistance of conductive yarns, base yarn type, and voltage values using full-factorial experimental design method. e-Textile structures were designed using different conductive yarns with different linear resistance values in different weave-type configurations. Thermal analysis was carried out under different voltage values to observe temperature variations over the conductive yarns positioned in the fabric structure. It was found that linear resistance of conductive yarns and its interaction with voltage values considerably affect the temperature of the e-textile structures, and the temperature observed over the conductive yarns is directly proportional to the linear resistance of conductive yarns. Additionally, it was observed that plain fabric samples reach lower temperatures than twill and sateen fabric samples.
Enacting the common script
Authors: Vuori Johanna
Published: June 2014

This article discusses the work of mid-level management at Finnish universities of applied sciences. Based on in-depth interviews with 15 line managers, this study investigates how the standardized management ideas of rational management and employee empowerment are used in the leadership of lecturers at these institutions. The findings indicate that the work of middle managers is characterized by the consistent pursuit of rationality, strenuous efforts to provide individualized attention to every staff member and the promotion of cooperation. This study concludes that the global management script has firmly shaped the work of middle management at Finnish universities of applied sciences, as demonstrated by their attempts to tighten the couplings between the organizational subsystems and between the management and the teaching staff.
The political and ideological dimension of the measurement of freedom of information. Assessing the interplay between neoliberalism and the Freedom of the Press Index
Authors: Giannone Diego
Published: June 2014

The article aims to analyse the role of measurement in legitimising a specific conception of freedom of information. From a neo-Gramscian perspective, the work draws attention to the way a political and ideological paradigm influences measuring instruments, as well as the contribution of such tools in strengthening the hegemony of that paradigm. By illustrating the rise of neoliberalism as a case in point, the study hypothesises a neoliberal influence on the measurement of freedom of information. To test such assumption, the work describes three ideal typical models of freedom of information – the liberal, egalitarian and neoliberal models – and their connection with specific conceptions of democracy. Then, the article focuses on the Freedom of the Press Index by Freedom House, that is the most used and recognised instrument for measuring freedom of information. Though the Freedom House contends to measure a liberal conception of freedom of information, the analysis of the indicators of the Freedom of the Press Index shows that they mirror the neoliberal model at least with respect to the role of State and Market on media systems, and the conception of media pluralism. The results bring into question the uncritical acceptance of the Freedom of the Press Index as the universal yardstick of freedom of information.
Viscosupplementation During Rehabilitation
Authors: Silvers Holly J.
Published: June 2014

Context:

Viscosupplementation (VS) and physical therapy are both used to treat pain associated with knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Evidence Acquisition:

PubMed and EMBASE searches were performed to July 2013. Search terms included hyaluronic acid OR hylan, physical therapy OR exercise, AND osteoarthritis.

Study Design:

Clinical review.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Results:

The efficacy and safety of VS in painful knee OA is well documented, as are the appropriate candidates for this intervention. Studies suggest that adding VS to physical therapy and therapeutic exercise may lead to improved pain reduction and increased functionality compared with physical therapy alone.

Conclusion:

Appropriately selected patients undergoing physical therapy for knee OA may benefit from VS.
Ability of Preseason Body Composition and Physical Fitness to Predict the Risk of Injury in Male Collegiate Hockey Players
Authors: Grant John A. , Bedi Asheesh , Kurz Jennifer , Bancroft Richard , Gagnier Joel J. , Miller Bruce S.
Published: June 2014

Background:

Injuries in collegiate ice hockey can result in significant time lost from play. The identification of modifiable risk factors relating to a player’s physical fitness allows the development of focused training and injury prevention programs targeted at reducing these risks.

Purpose:

To determine the ability of preseason fitness outcomes to predict in-season on-ice injury in male collegiate ice hockey players.

Study Design:

Prognostic cohort study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Athlete demographics, percentage body fat, aerobic capacity (300-m shuttle run; 1-, 1.5-, 5-mile run), and strength assessment (sit-ups, push-ups, grip strength, bench press, Olympic cleans, squats) data were collected at the beginning of 8 successive seasons for 1 male collegiate ice hockey team. Hockey-related injury data and player-level practice/game athlete exposure (AE) data were also prospectively collected. Seventy-nine players participated (203 player-years). Injury was defined as any event that resulted in the athlete being unable to participate in 1 or more practices or games following the event. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine the ability of the independent variables to predict the occurrence of on-ice injury.

Results:

There were 132 injuries (mean, 16.5 per year) in 55 athletes. The overall injury rate was 4.4 injuries per 1000 AEs. Forwards suffered 68% of the injuries. Seventy percent of injuries occurred during games with equal distribution between the 3 periods. The mean number of days lost due to injury was 7.8 ± 13.8 (range, 1-127 days). The most common mechanism of injury was contact with another player (54%). The odds of injury in a forward was 1.9 times (95% CI, 1.1-3.4) that of a defenseman and 3 times (95% CI, 1.2-7.7) that of a goalie. The odds of injury if the player’s body mass index (BMI) was ≥25 kg/m2 was 2.1 times (95% CI, 1.1-3.8) that of a player with a BMI <25 kg/m2. The odds ratios for bench press, maximum sit-ups, and Olympic cleans were statistically significant but close to 1.0, and therefore the clinical relevance is unknown.

Conclusion:

Forwards have higher odds of injury relative to other player positions. BMI was predictive of on-ice injury. Aerobic fitness and maximum strength outcomes were not strongly predictive of on-ice injury.
Staphylococcal enterotoxins stimulate lymphoma-associated immune dysregulation
Authors: Krejsgaard Thorbjørn , Willerslev-Olsen Andreas , Lindahl Lise M. , Bonefeld Charlotte M. , Koralov Sergei B. , Geisler Carsten , Wasik Mariusz A. , Gniadecki Robert , Kilian Mogens , Iversen Lars , Woetmann Anders , Odum Niels
Published: June 2014

Key Points

Staphylococcal enterotoxins stimulate benign T cells to induce activation of the immunoregulatory Stat3/IL-10 axis in malignant T cells. Colonization with enterotoxin-producing Staphylococcus aureus may promote immune dysregulation in cutaneous T-cell lymphoma.
Elevated audiovisual temporal interaction in patients with migraine without aura
Authors: Yang Weiping , Chu Bingqian , Yang Jiajia , Yu Yinghua , Wu Jinglong , Yu Shengyuan
Published: June 2014

Background

Photophobia and phonophobia are the most prominent symptoms in patients with migraine without aura. Hypersensitivity to visual stimuli can lead to greater hypersensitivity to auditory stimuli, which suggests that the interaction between visual and auditory stimuli may play an important role in the pathogenesis of migraine. However, audiovisual temporal interactions in migraine have not been well studied. Therefore, our aim was to examine auditory and visual interactions in migraine.

Methods

In this study, visual, auditory, and audiovisual stimuli with different temporal intervals between the visual and auditory stimuli were randomly presented to the left or right hemispace. During this time, the participants were asked to respond promptly to target stimuli. We used cumulative distribution functions to analyze the response times as a measure of audiovisual integration.

Results

Our results showed that audiovisual integration was significantly elevated in the migraineurs compared with the normal controls (p < 0.05); however, audiovisual suppression was weaker in the migraineurs compared with the normal controls (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our findings further objectively support the notion that migraineurs without aura are hypersensitive to external visual and auditory stimuli. Our study offers a new quantitative and objective method to evaluate hypersensitivity to audio-visual stimuli in patients with migraine.
Assessment of laboratory methods used in the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis after maternal treatment with spiramycin in pregnancy
Authors: Rodrigues Isolina MX , Costa Tatiane L , Avelar Juliana B , Amaral Waldemar N , Castro Ana M , Avelino Mariza M
Published: June 2014

Background

The different laboratory methods used in the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis have variable sensitivity and specificity. There is no evidence to prove that maternal treatment reduces the risk of fetal infection. The purpose of this study was to assess methods for the confirmation of congenital toxoplasmosis after maternal treatment with spiramycin during pregnancy, and to evaluate the effect of this treatment on clinical manifestations of the disease in newborns (NB).

Methods

This was a community-based, cross-sectional study of acute toxoplasmosis in newborns at risk of acquiring congenital infection. Participating newborns were born in the Clinical Hospital Maternity Ward of the Federal University of Goiás. Eligible participants were divided into 2 groups: group 1 consisted of 44 newborns born to mothers treated with spiramycin during pregnancy and group 2 consisted of 24 newborns born to mothers not treated with spiramycin during pregnancy because the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis was not performed. The sensitivity and specifity of PCR forT. gondiiDNA in peripheral blood and serological testing for specific anti-T. gondiiIgM and IgA, and the effects of maternal spiramycin treatment on these parameters, were determined by associating test results with clinical manifestations of disease.

Results

The sensitivity of the markers (T. gondiiDNA detected by PCR, and the presence of specific anti-T. gondiiIgM and IgA) for congenital toxoplasmosis was higher in group 2 than in group 1 (31.6, 68.4, 36.8% and 3.7, 25.9, 11.1% respectively). Even with a low PCR sensitivity, the group 2 results indicate the importance of developing new techniques for the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns. Within group 1, 70.4% of the infected newborns were asymptomatic and, in group 2, 68.4% showed clinical manifestations of congenital toxoplasmosis.

Conclusions

The higher proportion of infants without clinical symptoms in group 1 (70.4%) suggests the maternal treatment with spiramycin delays fetal infection, reducing the clinical sequelae of the disease in newborns. Given the low sensitivity of the tests used, when there is suspicion of congenital transmission several serological and parasitological tests are required in order to confirm or exclude congenital toxoplasmosis in newborns.
Preparation of γ-Fe2O3/ZnFe2O4nanoparticles by enhancement of surface modification with NaOH
Authors: Chen Longlong , Li Jian , Lin Yueqiang , Liu Xiaodong , Li Junming , Gong Xiaomin , Li Decai
Published: June 2014

Background

During liquid-phase synthesis of γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles by chemically induced transition in FeCl2 solution, enhancement of surface modification by adding ZnCl2 was attempted by using NaOH. By using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and vibrating sample magnetometry, the dependence of the synthesis on the amount of additional NaOH was studied.

Results

The experimental results show that the surface of the γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles could be modified by adding ZnCl2 to form composite nanoparticles with γ-Fe2O3/ZnFe2O4 ferrite core coated with Zn(OH)2 and adsorbed FeCl3, and that modification could be enhanced by adding NaOH.

Conclusions

In the experimental conditions, when the concentration of additional NaOH was below 0.70 M, the amounts of ZnFe2O4 and Zn(OH)2 phases increased slightly and that of adsorbed FeCl3 was unchanged. When the concentration of NaOH exceeded 0.70 M, the amount of FeCl3, ZnFe2O4, and Zn(OH)2 increased.
Optimization of biomass and biokinetic constant in Mazut biodegradation by indigenous bacteria BBRC10061
Authors: Khorasani Alireza Chackoshian , Mashreghi Mansour , Yaghmaei Soheila
Published: June 2014

Optimization based on appropriate parameters can be applied to improve a process. Mazut degradation as a critical issue in environment requires optimization to be efficiently done. To provide biodegradation conditions, experiments were designed on the least interactions among levels of parameters consisting of pH, Tween 80, glucose, phosphorous source, nitrogen source, and time. Kinetic constants and biomass were calculated based on 16 assays, designed using Taguchi method, which constructed various mazut biodegradation conditions. Kinetics of mazut degradation by newly isolated bacteriaEnterobacter cloacaeclosely followed second order kinetic model. Results of the 16 experiments showed that biomass was in the range of 0.019 OD600to 2.75 OD600, and biokinetic constant was in the range of 0.2 × 10-5 L/ (mg day) to 10-4 L/ (mg day). Optimal level for each parameter was obtained through data analysis. For optimal biomass equal to 2.75 OD600, optimal pH, Tween80, glucose, phosphorous source, and time were 8.3, 4 g/L, 4 g/L, 9 g/L, and 10 days, respectively. For biokinetic constant equal to 1.2 × 10-4 L/ (mg day), optimal pH, Tween80, glucose, phosphorous source, and nitrogen source were 8.3, 1 g/L, 4 g/L, 1 g/L, and 9 g/L, respectively. The optimum levels for biomass and biokinetic constant were the same except the levels of the Tween 80, and phosphorous source. Consequently, mazut may be more degraded with adjusting the conditions on the optimum condition.
Assessment of Potential Biomarkers of Subclinical Vitamin K Deficiency in Patients with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Elliott Meghan J , Booth Sarah L , Hopman Wilma M , Holden Rachel M
Published: June 2014

Background:

A significant proportion of hemodialysis patients have functional, but modifiable, vitamin K deficiency.

Objective:

To determine the correlates of poor vitamin K status in hemodialysis patients.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Hemodialysis units at Kingston General Hospital and its satellite centres, Ontario, Canada.

Patients:

Patients undergoing outpatient hemodialysis for end-stage kidney disease.

Measurements:

Serum concentrations of phylloquinone, undercarboxylated prothrombin, also known as protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonism – factor II (PIVKA-II), and the percentage of undercarboxylated osteocalcin (%ucOC).

Methods:

Vitamin K status was determined in fasting blood samples of hemodialysis patients. Bivariate relationships were examined using parametric and non-parametric statistics as appropriate. Multivariable linear regression models were applied to identify predictors of vitamin K status.

Results:

Among 44 HD patients, criteria for subclinical vitamin K deficiency were met in 13.6% (phylloquinone < 0.4 nmol/L), 51% (%ucOC > 20%) and 90.9% (PIVKA-II > 2.0 nmol/L) of subjects. Phylloquinone levels were positively associated with total cholesterol, triglyceride levels and non-smoking status. Higher %ucOC was associated with increased calcium-phosphate product. Increased PIVKA-II levels were observed with advancing age, reduced dialysis adequacy, lower HDL and a history of coronary artery disease. There were no associations found among the individual biomarkers of vitamin K status. In a multi-variable model, triglycerides were the only significant predictor of phylloquinone levels, while increasing phosphate and decreasing PTH were independent predictors of %ucOC. PIVKA-II levels increased by 0.54 nmol/L for every 10-year increase in age.

Limitations:

Observational study; small sample size.

Conclusions:

A significant proportion of HD patients met criteria for subclinical vitamin K deficiency. Of the biomarkers measured, PIVKA-II may be superior given its independence of renal function or dyslipidemia, both of which may confound the other vitamin K biomarkers. Studies in patients with ESKD linking biomarkers of vitamin K status to important patient outcomes, including cardiovascular disease, nutritional status and mortality, are required in order to determine the optimal biomarker for evaluating vitamin K status in this particular population.
Symptomatic loosening of a total knee arthroplasty caused by a tibial chondrosarcoma – a case report
Authors: Sieker Jakob T , Rudert Maximilian , Steinert Andre F
Published: June 2014

Premature implant loosening following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can have several causes. In this article we report on a rare case of a 74 year old male patient suffering tibial component loosening 14 month after primary TKA. The patient did neither have any malignancies nor joint arthroplasty before. Upon clinical examination the range of motion in the diseased knee was painfully restricted to 80° of knee flexion, with the patient increasingly suffering sleeping and resting pain, and also at weight bearing. In standard radiographs, loosening of the TKA due to a large osteolysis at the tibial component was evident. Local computed tomography (CT) of the right knee revealed loosening of the tibial component due to a presumably malign bone tumor. For determination of the final diagnosis a representative biopsy of the tumor was taken by open surgery prior to the tumor resection. Histopathologic evaluation of the biopsy revealed a periprosthetic myxoid chondrosarcoma of the proximal tibia. Pre-operative staging examination included CT scans of lung and abdomen, as well as a bone scintigraphy which revealed no signs of tumor metastasis in the body. Surgical management comprised wide tumor resection and implantation of a hinged tumor knee arthroplasty with replacements of the distal femur and proximal tibia, as well as a patella tendon replacement using a synthetic ligament. Revision surgery was necessary twice due to impaired wound healing and critical soft tissue coverage, and treatment included a gastrocnemius muscle flap with skin mesh graft covering. Unfortunately long-term follow-up examinations could not be obtained, as the patient deceased due to an alveolitis during rehabilitation. In summary, the specifics of this rare case of aseptic TKA loosening, and the unusual circumstances of chondrosarcoma diagnosis and treatment are informative for those providing surgical treatment of similar cases.
Aberrant DNA methylation patterns in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Maghbooli Zhila , Larijani Bagher , Emamgholipour Solaleh , Amini Manochehr , Keshtkar Abbasali , Pasalar Parvin
Published: June 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether global levels of DNA methylation status were associated with albuminuria and progression of diabetic nephropathy in a case-control study of 123 patients with type 2 diabetes- 53 patients with albuminuria and 70 patients without albuminuria.

Methods

The 5-methyl cytosine content was assessed by reverse phase high pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to determine individual global DNA methylation status in two groups.

Results

Global DNA methylation levels were significantly higher in patients with albuminuria compared with those in normal range of albuminuria (p = 0.01). There were significant differences in global levels of DNA methylation in relation to albuminuria (p = 0.028) and an interesting pattern of increasing global levels of DNA methylation in terms of albuminuria severity.

In patients with micro- and macro albuminuria, we found no significant correlations between global DNA methylation levels and duration of diabetes (p > 0.05). In both sub groups, there were not significant differences between global DNA methylation levels with good and poor glycaemic control (p > 0.05). In addition, in patients with albuminuria, no differences in DNA methylation levels were observed between patients with and without other risk factors including age, gender, hypertension, dyslipidaemia and obesity.

Conclusions

These data may be helpful in further studies to develop novel biomarkers and new strategies for clinical care of patients at risk of diabetic nephropathy.