bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ranibizumab for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Associated Macular Edema Study (RABAMES): six‐month results of a prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: Pielen Amelie , Mirshahi Alireza , Feltgen Nicolas , Lorenz Katrin , Korb Christina , Junker Bernd , Schaefer Caroline , Zwiener Isabella , Hattenbach Lars‐Olof ,   the RABAMES Study Group
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To compare standard‐of‐care grid laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) versus a combination of both in the treatment of chronic (>3 months) macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion.

Methods

Prospective, randomized, multicentre clinical trial. Thirty patients with a best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 20/320 and 20/40 were randomized 1:1:1 to receive grid laser or three monthly injections of 0.5 mg IVR or both followed by 3 months of observation.

Results

Mean change from baseline BCVA at month 6 was +2 letters [laser; 0.04 logMAR, 95% confidence interval (−0.17; 0.25)], +17 letters [IVR; 0.34 (0.19; 0.5)] and +6 letters [combination; 0.12 (0.01; 0.24)] (IVR versus laser p = 0.02 and IVR versus combination p = 0.02). At month 3, mean improvement in central retinal thickness (CRT) was 90.6 μm (laser) (−18.65; 199.8), 379.5 μm (IVR) (204.2; −554.8), and 248 μm (167.2; −328.8) (combination) (IVR versus laser p = 0.005, laser versus combination p = 0.02). During the observation period, CRT improved in laser [37.6 μm (−66.82; 142.0)], but deteriorated in IVR [−142.4 μm (−247.6; −37.16)] and combination [−171.7 μm (−250.4; −92.96)] (laser versus IVR p = 0.01, laser versus combination p = 0.002) indicating recurrent oedema. Less laser retreatments (at 8 weeks) were required in combination group (2/10) than grid group (7/10).

Conclusion

Six‐month results suggest that ranibizumab may be superior to grid laser in improving visual acuity. Grid combined with IVR neither enhanced functional and morphological improvement of IVR nor did it prevent or prolong recurrence of oedema. In IVR groups, CRT increased slowly after stopping injections, whereas improvement in visual acuity was sustained, indicating that morphological changes occur prior to functional impairment.
Fear of recurrence: Results of a randomized trial of relapse detection in schizophrenia
Authors: Gumley Andrew I. , MacBeth Angus , Reilly James D. , O'Grady Margaret , White Ross G. , McLeod Hamish , Schwannauer Matthias , Power Kevin G.
Published: July 2014

Objective

We aimed to develop and establish the reliability and validity of a measure of Fear of Recurrence, measuring cognitive appraisals of relapse rather than standard early signs of relapse. We also aimed to establish the sensitivity and specificity to relapse.

Method

Participants diagnosed with schizophrenia or a related disorder were randomized to one of two early signs monitoring conditions, using either the Early Signs Scale or the Fear of Recurrence Scale (FoRSe). Participants were followed up for 6‐months or until relapse.

Results

A total of 169 participants were randomized to Standard (n = 86) or FoRSe (n = 83) monitoring. We found good evidence supporting reliability and validity of the FoRSe. In addition, a cut‐off point of ≥5 was associated with an optimal sensitivity in both Standard (n = 26:79%, 95% CI = 62–89) and FoRSe (n = 18:72%, 95% CI = 52–86) monitoring. However, this degree of sensitivity was associated with a lower specificity in Standard (n = 30:35%, 96% CI = 23–50) and FoRSe (n = 25:46%, 95% CI = 32–60). Finally, Fear of Relapse was a significant predictor of time to relapse [Exp(β) = 1.20, 95% CI = 1.01–1.42, p < .05].

Conclusion

The study provides evidence that Fear of Recurrence may be an important clinical construct linked to increased risk of relapse and poorer emotional recovery in people diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Practitioner points

Monitoring Fear of Recurrence is as sensitive to relapse detection as monitoring early signs alone.

Greater Fear of Relapse was associated with shorter duration to actual relapse.

Fear of recurrence may be an important clinical feature linked to poorer emotional recovery and increased risk of relapse.

Fear of Recurrence may be an important focus of psychological therapy to promote emotional recovery and prevention of relapse.
90Y‐ibritumomab tiuxetan radiotherapy as first‐line therapy for early stage low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas, including bulky disease
Authors: Samaniego Felipe , Berkova Zuzana , Romaguera Jorge E. , Fowler Nathan , Fanale Michelle A. , Pro Barbara , Shah Jatin J. , McLaughlin Peter , Sehgal Lalit , Selvaraj Vijairam , Braun Frank K. , Mathur Rohit , Feng Lei , Neelapu Sattva S. , Kwak Larry W.
Published: July 2014

90Y‐ibritumomab‐tiuxetan (90YIT) was used as a first‐line therapy for patients with early‐stage follicular lymphoma (FL) or marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma (MZL). Thirty‐one patients were treated, with an overall 3‐month response rate of 100% (68% complete response, 29% unconfirmed complete response and 3% partial response). At a median follow‐up of 56 months, ten patients (32%) had disease relapse or progression. The progression‐free rates at 3 and 5 years were lower in males, patients with FL, stage II diseaseand non‐bulky disease, although they did not reach statistical significance. Grade 3–4 neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and anaemia were 61%, 35%, and 3%, respectively. 90YIT was well tolerated, including in those patients over 60 years old, and achieved high response rates in patients with early‐stage low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas. Bulky disease did not adversely affect tumour response.
Hypospadias: Prevalence, birthweight and associated major congenital anomalies
Authors: Nissen Karin Bækgaard , Udesen Ann , Garne Ester
Published: July 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hypospadias over 24 years in a Danish population and to describe the relation to birthweight and associated major congenital anomalies. It is a population‐based study of all cases (live births, fetal deaths and elective terminations of pregnancy) with hypospadias born in the period 1986–2009 in Funen County and reported to the EUROCAT registry of congenital anomalies. Cases were included only if surgery for hypospadias was performed. 223 cases of hypospadias were registered during the period 1986–2009 with an overall prevalence of 16.9 per 10 000 births. The prevalence was significantly higher in 2000–2009 compared to 1986–1999 (P < 0.001). We found a three times higher occurrence of VLBW (very low birthweight) infants among cases with hypospadias. Infants with isolated hypospadias were more likely to have mild hypospadias (68%) while cases with associated major congenital anomalies were less likely to have mild hypospadias (42%) (P < 0.05). Hypospadias was associated with VLBW and the severity of the defect was related to the presence of major congenital anomalies. The prevalence of hypospadias has increased during the study period. The relation to VLBW could indicate a causal relationship for hypospadias or a shared pathogenic factor.
A mutation in the Z‐line Cypher/ZASP protein is associated with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lopez‐Ayala J. M. , Ortiz‐Genga M. , Gomez‐Milanes I. , Lopez‐Cuenca D. , Ruiz‐Espejo F. , Sanchez‐Munoz J. J. , Oliva‐Sandoval M. J. , Monserrat L. , Gimeno J. R.
Published: July 2014

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an important cause of malignant arrhythmia and sudden death particularly in young people. Although it is considered a desmosomal disease, mutations in non‐desmosomal genes have also been identified. We report on a family where a mutation in LDB3 is associated with this condition. The index case and first and second degree relatives underwent a complete clinical evaluation: physical examination, electrocardiography (ECG), signal‐averaged ECG, 2D echocardiogram, cardiac magnetic resonance and 24‐h monitoring. After ruling out mutations in the five desmosomal genes, genetic testing by means of Next Generation Sequencing was carried out on the proband. A heterozygous missense mutation in LDB3 c.1051A>G was identified. This result was confirmed by subsequent Sanger DNA sequencing. Another six carriers were identified amongst her relatives. Three subjects fulfilled the criteria for a definitive diagnosis of ARVC and one reached a borderline diagnosis. In conclusion, this is the first family with ARVC where a mutation in LDB3 is associated with ARVC. Next generation sequencing arises as a particular useful tool to point to new causative genes in ARVC.
Complete digital workflow for the production of implant‐supported single‐unit monolithic crowns
Authors: Joda Tim , Brägger Urs
Published: July 2014

Objectives

The aim of this case series was to introduce a complete digital workflow for the production of monolithic implant crowns.

Material and methods

Six patients were treated with implant‐supported crowns made of resin nano ceramic (RNC). Starting with an intraoral optical scan (IOS), and following a CAD/CAM process, the monolithic crowns were bonded either to a novel prefabricated titanium abutment base (group A) or to a CAD/CAM‐generated individualized titanium abutment (group B) in premolar or molar sites on a soft tissue level dental implant. Economic analyses included clinical and laboratory steps. An esthetic evaluation was performed to compare the two abutment‐crown combinations.

Results

None of the digitally constructed RNC crowns required any clinical adaptation. Overall mean work time calculations revealed obvious differences for group A (65.3 min) compared with group B (86.5 min). Esthetic analysis demonstrated a more favorable outcome for the prefabricated bonding bases.

Conclusions

Prefabricated or individualized abutments on monolithic RNC crowns using CAD/CAM technology in a model‐free workflow seem to provide a feasible and streamlined treatment approach for single‐edentulous space rehabilitation in the posterior region. However, RNC as full‐contour material has to be considered experimental, and further large‐scale clinical investigations with long‐term follow‐up observation are necessary.
Ad sanctitatem mortuorum: tomb raiders, body snatchers and relic hunters in late antiquity
Authors: Lafferty Sean
Published: July 2014

In late antiquity there emerged new laws that sought to protect the dead through the prevention and punishment of crimes that contravened the sanctity of the body and its resting place, including the profanation of cadavers, tomb violation, and grave‐robbery. On a more personal level, individuals used epitaphs to convey their wishes to be left undisturbed after burial, and family and kin members began searching for new ways to commemorate the memory of loved ones that did not put their mortal remains at risk. At the same time, the increasing popularity of the cult of saints and martyrs put greater emphasis on the importance of relics as objects of veneration, which in turn led to elaborate strategies of acquisition, including the exhumation, transporting and dismembering of the dead. All of these developments were inspired in some degree by a growing awareness of the body as a symbol of God's eternal love for mankind. Yet paradoxically, literary and archaeological evidence confirms that grave‐robbing was a relatively widespread phenomenon during this time. The question for historians, therefore, is one of legitimacy: in what instances was the violation of tombs considered acceptable or legitimate, and by whom? In answering this, we can learn a great deal about the cultural and religious factors that underpinned the development of new laws and customs concerning the treatment of the dead.
Baseline Characteristics and Treatment Response of Patients from the Philippines in the CHIMES Study
Authors: Navarro Jose C. , Gan Herminigildo H. , Lao Annabelle Y. , Baroque Alejandro C. , Hiyadan John H. B. , Chua Carlos L. , Jose Ma. Cristina San , Advincula Joel M. , Lee Chun Fan , Bousser Marie-Germaine , Chen Christopher L. H. ,   for the CHIMES Study Investigators
Published: July 2014

Background

The CHIMES Study compared MLC601 with placebo in patients with ischemic stroke of intermediate severity in the preceding 72 h. Sites from the Philippines randomized 504 of 1099 (46%) patients in the study. We aimed to define the patient characteristics and treatment responses in this subgroup to better plan future trials.

Methods

The CHIMES dataset was used to compare the baseline characteristics, time from stroke onset to study treatment initiation, and treatment responses to MLC601 between patients recruited from Philippines and the rest of the cohort. Treatment effect was analyzed using end-points at month 3 as described in the primary publication, that is, modified Rankin Score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and Barthel Index.

Results

The Philippine cohort was younger, had more women, worse baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, and longer time delay from stroke onset to study treatment compared with the rest of the cohort. Age ( P = 0·003), baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ( P < 0·001), and stroke onset to study treatment initiation ( P = 0·016) were predictors of modified Rankin Score at three-months. Primary analysis of modified Rankin Score shift was in favor of MLC601 (adjusted odds ratio 1·41, 95% confidence interval 1·01–1·96). Secondary analyses were likewise in favor of MLC601 for modified Rankin Score dichotomy 0–1, improvement in National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (total and motor scores), and Barthel Index.

Conclusions

The treatment effects in the Philippine cohort were in favor of MLC601. This may be due to inclusion of more patients with predictors of poorer outcome.
Proposing the control‐reactance compliance model (CRCM) to explain opposing motivations to comply with organisational information security policies
Authors: Lowry Paul Benjamin , Moody Gregory D.
Published: July 2014

Organisations increasingly rely on information and related systems, which are also a source of risk. Unfortunately, employees represent the greatest risk to organisational information because they are the most frequent source of information security breaches. To address this ‘weak link’ in organisational security, most organisations have strict information security policies (ISPs) designed to thwart employee information abuses. Regrettably, these ISPs are only partially effective because employees often ignore them, circumvent them or even do the opposite of what management desires. Research on attempts to increase ISP compliance has produced similarly mixed results. Lack of compliance with ISPs is a widespread organisational issue that increasingly bears disproportionately large direct and qualitative costs that undermine strategy.

Consequently, the purpose of our study was to contribute to the understanding of both motivations to comply with new ISPs and motivations to react negatively against them. To do so, we proposed an innovative model, the control‐reactance compliance model (CRCM), which combines organisational control theory – a model that explains ISP compliance – with reactance theory – a model used to explain ISP noncompliance. To test CRCM, we used a sample of 320 working professionals in a variety of industries to examine the likely organisational outcomes of the delivery of a new ISP to employees in the form of a typical memo sent throughout an organisation. We largely found support for CRCM, and this study concludes with an explanation of the model's contributions to research and practice related to organisational ISP compliance.
Diabetes Mellitus, Physical Activity, and Longevity Between the Ages of 70 and 90
Authors: Stessman Jochanan , Jacobs Jeremy M.
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To determine the effect of physical activity (PA) on survival in older adults (70–90) with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Design

The Jerusalem Longitudinal Cohort Study (1990–2010) prospectively follows up a representative cohort born in 1920–1921.

Setting

Home‐based assessment.

Participants

Individuals aged 70 in 1990 (n = 463), 78 in 1998 (n = 972), and 85 in 2005 (n = 1,181).

Measurements

Comprehensive geriatric assessment; self‐reportedPAdichotomized to active (≥4 hours of activity/wk) or inactive (<4 hours of activity/wk); mortality data (1990–2010).

Results

Prevalence ofDMwas 15.7% at age 70, 18.4% at age 78, and 21.3% at age 85.DMwas associated with greater morbidity. Survival was higher in active than inactive withDM(aged 70–77: 78.8% vs 48.7%,P = .008; aged 78–84: 60.0% vs 40%,P = .01; aged 85–90: 70.2% vs 49.6%,P < .001) and withoutDM(aged 70–77: 85.9% vs 74.1%,P = .002; aged 78–84: 75.0% vs 64.0%,P = .004; aged 85–90: 82.3% vs 60.3%,P < .001). Cox proportional hazards ratios (HRs) according toPAstatus compared active subjects withoutDM(reference) with inactive subjects withoutDM, active subjects withDM, and inactive subjects withDMafter adjusting for sex, self‐rated health, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, smoking, and body mass index. AdjustedHRs were 1.39 for inactive subjects withoutDM, 1.34 for active subjects withDM, and 3.54 for inactive subjects withDMfor age 70 to 77 (P < .001); 1.43 for inactive subjects withoutDM, 1.55 for active subjects withDM, and 3.74 for inactive subjects withDMfor age 78 to 84 (P < .001); and 1.98 for inactive subjects withoutDM, 1.56 for active subjects withDM, and 2.18 for inactive withDMfor age 85 to 90 (P < .001).

Conclusion

In adults withDM, greater survival continues to be associated withPAup to and including very old adults (70–90). These findings support the encouragement of regularPAin people withDMregardless of advancing age.
Regulation of pepc gene expression in Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 and its effects on cyclic electron flow around photosystem I and tolerances to environmental stresses
Authors: Jia Xiao‐Hui , Zhang Peng‐Peng , Shi Ding‐Ji , Mi Hua‐Ling , Zhu Jia‐Cheng , Huang Xi‐Wen , He Pei‐Min
Published: July 2014

Since pepc gene encoding phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase) has been cloned from Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 and other cyanobacteria, the effects of pepc gene expression on photosynthesis have not been reported yet. In this study, we constructed mutants containing either upregulated (forward) or downregulated (reverse) pepc gene in Anabaena sp. PCC 7120. Results from real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR), Western blot and enzymatic analysis showed that PEPCase activity was significantly reduced in the reverse mutant compared with the wild type, and that of the forward mutant was obviously increased. Interestingly, the net photosynthesis in both the reverse mutant and the forward mutant were higher than that of the wild type, but dark respiration was decreased only in the reverse mutant. The absorbance changes of P700 upon saturation pulse showed the photosystem I (PSI) activity was inhibited, as reflected by Y(I), and Y(NA) was elevated, and dark reduction of P700+ was stimulated, indicating enhanced cyclic electron flow (CEF) around PSI in the reverse mutant. Additionally, the reverse mutant photosynthesis was higher than that of the wild type in low temperature, low and high pH, and high salinity, and this implies increased tolerance in the reverse mutant through downregulated pepc gene.
Further Evidence for the Topography and Connectivity of the Corpus Callosum: An fMRI Study of Patients with Partial Callosal Resection
Authors: Polonara G. , Mascioli G. , Foschi N. , Salvolini U. , Pierpaoli C. , Manzoni T. , Fabri M. , Barbaresi P.
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This functional MRI study was designed to describe activated fiber topography and trajectories in the corpus callosum (CC) of six patients carrying different degree of partial callosal resection.

METHODS

Patients receiving gustatory, tactile, and visual stimulation according to a block‐design protocol were scanned in a 1.5 Tesla magnet. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data were also acquired to visualize spared interhemispheric fibers.

RESULTS

Taste stimuli evoked bilateral activation of the primary gustatory area in all patients and foci in the anterior CC, when spared. Tactile stimuli to the hand evoked bilateral foci in the primary somatosensory area in patients with an intact posterior callosal body and only contralateral in the other patients. Callosal foci occurred in the CC body, if spared. In patients with an intact splenium central visual stimulation induced bilateral activation of the primary visual area as well as foci in the splenium itself.

CONCLUSION

Present data show that interhemispheric fibers linking sensory areas crossed through the CC at the sites where the different sensory stimuli evoked activation foci, and that topography of callosal foci evoked by sensory stimulation in spared CC portions is consistent with that previously observed in subjects with intact CC.
Effects of a Hydrogel Patch on Denture‐Related Traumatic Ulcers; an Exploratory Study
Authors: Jivanescu Anca , Borgnakke Wenche Sylling , Goguta Luciana , Erimescu Raluca , Shapira Lior , Bratu Emanuel
Published: July 2014

Purpose

The aim of this exploratory study was to evaluate the effects of hydrogel patch wound dressing on healing time and pain level of denture‐related lesions of the oral mucosa in edentulous individuals.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three adults with newly fabricated complete sets of dentures who subsequently developed at least two ulcerative lesions related to their complete dentures were included in the study. For each participant, the smaller lesion (control lesion) was allocated to usual care, that is, adjustment of the denture's margins, whereas the larger lesion (test lesion) was assigned to receive usual care plus application of a hydrogel patch. In the latter, a patch was applied directly on the affected area three times within the first 24 hours, followed by application of three additional patches, namely one during each of the following 3 days. Participants were monitored until complete healing of all ulcers. The primary outcome measures were changes since baseline in each lesion's greatest dimension at days 1 and 7, as well as improvement in ulcer‐related pain experienced.

Results

Participants were on average about 70 years old, about half were women, and just over 40% had type 2 diabetes. Lesions treated with the hydrogel patch extended between 4.3 and 10.2 mm (mean 7.1 mm) in their greatest dimension, and the smaller lesions receiving usual care were initially 4 mm on average, ranging from 2.0 to 7.0 mm. The hydrogel patch lesions attained 25% to 75% reductions in their greatest lesion extent from baseline to days 1 and 7, respectively, compared to 10% and just over 50% reduction in the lesions that received usual care. Healing rates were similar in patients with and without diabetes. The participants reported significant improvement in pain level 1 day following treatment initiation for 30% of the control lesions, compared to 65% of the lesions treated with the hydrogel patch.

Conclusions

The results of this exploratory study suggest that application of hydrogel patches may represent a novel, effective treatment for accelerating the healing process and pain reduction in mucosal lesions associated with complete dentures also in people with type 2 diabetes; however, larger studies need to confirm these findings.
The Ability and Willingness Paradox in Family Firm Innovation
Authors: Chrisman James J. , Chua Jess H. , De Massis Alfredo , Frattini Federico , Wright Mike
Published: July 2014

We present a framework of how family involvement influences innovation management based on ability (discretion to act) and willingness (disposition to act), two drivers that distinguish family firms from nonfamily firms and lead to heterogeneity among family firms. Paradoxically, family firms have superior ability yet lower willingness to engage in technological innovation. Resolving this paradox should yield new insights about innovation management in general. We summarize and position the papers in this special issue according to these drivers and set out an agenda for further research that will contribute to a better understanding of family firms' heterogeneous and paradoxical behaviors.
Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Awareness, Uptake, and Parental and Health Care Provider Communication Among 11‐ to 18‐Year‐Old Adolescents in a Rural Appalachian Ohio County in the United States
Authors: Bhatta Madhav P. , Phillips Lynette
Published: July 2014

Purpose

This study examined human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine awareness and uptake, and communication with a parent and/or a health care provider among 11‐ to 18‐year‐old male and female adolescents in an Appalachian Ohio county.

Methods

Five questions regarding the HPV vaccine were added to the 2012 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) surveys administered to middle and high school students in the county. The YRBSS surveys are school‐based, anonymous, and voluntary. The questions added were about vaccine awareness and uptake, and communication with a parent or health care provider about the vaccine.

Results

Of the 1,299 participants, 51.9% were male and 90.3% were white. Overall, 49.2%, 23.5%, 19.2%, and 24.6%, respectively, reported vaccine awareness, uptake of at least 1 dose of the HPV vaccine, communication with a parent, and communication with a health care provider. Females and adolescents ≥15 years were significantly more likely to report awareness, uptake, and parental and provider communication than males and adolescents ≤14 years. Adolescents receiving any dose of the vaccine were significantly more likely to have had a parent (OR: 3.74; 95% CI: 2.30‐6.06) or a health care provider (OR: 10.91; 95% CI: 6.42‐18.6) discuss the vaccine than those who had not received any dose.

Conclusions

Despite the strong link between parental and health care provider communication and HPV vaccine uptake, the levels of communication remain low in this Appalachian population. These findings suggest the need for public health education programs targeting the health care providers, the parents, and the adolescents to improve awareness, knowledge, and HPV vaccine uptake.
Points in Time: The Mesolithic–Neolithic Transition and the Chronology of Late Rod Microliths in Britain
Authors: Griffiths Seren
Published: July 2014

This paper presents the results of the Bayesian statistical modelling of radiocarbon dates associated with diagnostic late Mesolithic rod microliths from England and Wales. These date estimates are compared with results for the earliest evidence for Neolithic material culture and practices in Britain (Whittle et al. 2011; Griffiths 2011; 2014; forthcoming). The chronology of some rod microlith sites indicates a potential overlap between the earliest Neolithic and latest Mesolithic material culture and practices, in the first three centuries of the fourth millennium cal BC across England and Wales. The locations of late Mesolithic sites suggest regional processes of ‘neolithization’ may have occurred. In the region where we have the best chronological evidence for late Mesolithic sites – in Yorkshire – the location of the very latest Mesolithic sites suggests these lifeways may have persisted in landscapes which had been foci of hunter‐gatherer activity for hundreds of years, and which might have been understood as ‘ancestral’ or ‘persistent’ places.
Outcomes of a nurse‐managed service for stable HIV‐positive patients in a large South African public sector antiretroviral therapy programme
Authors: Grimsrud Anna , Kaplan Richard , Bekker Linda‐Gail , Myer Landon
Published: July 2014

Objectives

Models of care utilizing task shifting and decentralization are needed to support growing ART programmes. We compared patient outcomes between a doctor‐managed clinic and a nurse‐managed down‐referral site in Cape Town, South Africa.

Methods

Analysis included all adults who initiated ART between 2002 and 2011 within a large public sector ART service. Stable patients were eligible for down‐referral. Outcomes [mortality, loss to follow‐up (LTFU), virologic failure] were compared under different models of care using proportional hazards models with time‐dependent covariates.

Results

Five thousand seven hundred and forty‐six patients initiated ART and over 5 years 41% (n = 2341) were down‐referred; the median time on ART before down‐referral was 1.6 years (interquartile range, 0.9–2.6). The nurse‐managed down‐referral site reported lower crude rates of mortality, LTFU and virologic failure compared with the doctor‐managed clinic. After adjustment, there was no difference in the risk of mortality or virologic failure by model of care. However, patients who were down‐referred were more likely to be LTFU than those retained at the doctor‐managed site (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.09–1.69). Increased levels of LTFU in the nurse‐managed vs. doctor‐managed service were observed in subgroups of male patients, those with advanced disease at initiation and those who started ART in the early years of the programme.

Conclusion

Reorganization of ART maintenance by down‐referral to nurse‐managed services is associated with programme outcomes similar to those achieved using doctor‐driven primary care services. Further research is necessary to identify optimal models of care to support long‐term retention of patients on ART in resource‐limited settings.
Cotrimoxazole prophylactic treatment prevents malaria in children in sub‐Saharan Africa: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mbeye Nyanyiwe M. , ter Kuile Feiko O. , Davies Mary‐Ann , Phiri Kamija S. , Egger Matthias , Wandeler Gilles ,   IeDEA‐Southern Africa
Published: July 2014

Objectives

Cotrimoxazole prophylactic treatment (CPT) prevents opportunistic infections in HIV‐infected or HIV‐exposed children, but estimates of the effectiveness in preventing malaria vary. We reviewed studies that examined the effect of CPT on incidence of malaria in children in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

We searched PubMed and EMBASE for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies on the effect of CPT on incidence of malaria and mortality in children and extracted data on the prevalence of sulphadoxine‐pyrimethamine resistance–conferring point mutations. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) from individual studies were combined using random effects meta‐analysis; confounder‐adjusted estimates were used for cohort studies. The importance of resistance was examined in meta‐regression analyses.

Results

Three RCTs and four cohort studies with 5039 children (1692 HIV‐exposed; 2800 HIV‐uninfected; 1486 HIV‐infected) were included. Children on CPT were less likely to develop clinical malaria episodes than those without prophylaxis (combined IRR 0.37, 95% confidence interval: 0.21–0.66), but there was substantial between‐study heterogeneity (I‐squared = 94%, P < 0.001). The protective efficacy of CPT was highest in an RCT from Mali, where the prevalence of antifolate resistant plasmodia was low. In meta‐regression analyses, there was some evidence that the efficacy of CPT declined with increasing levels of resistance. Mortality was reduced with CPT in an RCT from Zambia, but not in a cohort study from Côte d'Ivoire.

Conclusions

Cotrimoxazole prophylactic treatment reduces incidence of malaria and mortality in children in sub‐Saharan Africa, but study designs, settings and results were heterogeneous. CPT appears to be beneficial for HIV‐infected and HIV‐exposed as well as HIV‐uninfected children.
Ungkapan Kamiran-J Retak Permukaan pada Bar Silinder Padu Kenaan Beban Ragam I
Authors: Ismail Al Emran , Ariffin Ahmad Kamal , Abdullah Shahrum , Ghazali Maryam Jameelah
Published: July 2014

In this study, J-integral expression for surface crack in solid cylindrical bars subjected to mode I loadings were developed and analysed. These expressions were used to predict J-integral along the crack front for semi-elliptical crack shaped which different in sizes and geometries. One of the advantages of these expression were to accelerate any large deformation analysis generally which takes longer computational time. Finite element analysis was used to determine a fully plastic parameter called h-function. There were two types of mode I loading used in this work namely tensile force and bending moment. Results found that J-integral predictions were succesfully conducted. However, the predictions were dependent on the crack parameters used. Increasing the crack depth, J-integral prediction required different limit load for different position along the crack front. For the case of shallow cracks, J-integral determinations can be implemented succesfully except for the case of position in the vicinity of the outer points.
Absolute Forecast Errors of Earnings in Malaysian IPO Prospectuses: The Impact of Ethnic Diversity
Authors: Ammer Mohammed Abdullah , Ahmad-Zaluki Nurwati A.
Published: July 2014

The main focus of this paper is the earnings forecast, a vital information included in IPO prospectus. Specifically, our paper examined the impact of ethnic diversity groups on the boards of directors and audit committees in terms of earnings forecast accuracy. We are motivated by the lack of prior studies related to investigating IPO earnings forecast. Cross-sectional Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) modeling was conducted on 190 Malaysian IPOs from 2002 to 2012. For the evaluation of earnings forecast accuracy, we mathematically used the metric of Absolute Forecast Error (AFER). Moreover, for the test of robustness, we used the metric of Squared Forecast Error (SQFER) as error measurement, as it mostly deals with large errors. The empirical results indicate that the ethnic diversity groups on boards and audit committees have an impact on the accuracy of earnings forecasts. However, the evidence is significant for Chinese and Malay serving on boards but insignificant in terms of Chinese and Malay serving on audit committee. The findings indicate that multi-ethnic groups in Malaysian IPO companies could hinder the capability of IPO companies to achieve accurate earnings forecasts in their prospectuses.
Development of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) as Temperature Sensor Inside Packed-bed Non-thermal Plasma Reactor
Authors: Musa Siti Musliha Aishah , Ibrahim RK Raja , Azmi Asrul Izam
Published: July 2014

This paper presents early work on Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) as temperature sensor to monitor temperature variation inside a packed-bed non-thermal plasma reactor. FBG made from germania-doped fiber with center Bragg wavelength of 1552.5 nm was embedded inside non-thermal plasma reactor with sphere shape dielectric bead (barium titanate) and used to probe the temperature variation inside the reactor. The experimental works have proven that FBG is a suitable sensor to monitor temperature variation inside of reactor via LabVIEW program. Besides that, Optical Spectrum Analyzer (OSA) recorded Bragg wavelength shift as voltage of power supply increases, which indicate the non-uniform temperature variation occurring inside the reactor. However, it does not affect the chemical reaction inside the reactor because the temperature condition is in steady state.
Influence Of Composition and Sintering Temperature on Density for Pure and Titanium Alloy Foams
Authors: Ahmad S. , Muhamad N. , Muchtar A. , Sahari J. , Jamaludin K. R. , Ibrahim M. H. I. , Mohamad Nor N. H.
Published: July 2014

Metallic foams with high fraction of porosity have gained their usefulness and are now becoming a new class of materials for various engineering applications. Due to this, the present work aims to produce pure titanium and alloy titanium foams with high density using different composition and sintering temperature. The slurry method is selected to produce the pure titanium and alloy titanium foam. The titanium slurry is prepared by mixing pure or titanium alloy powder, polyethylene glycol (PEG), methylcellulose and water. Polyurethane (PU) foam is then impregnated in the slurry and dried at room temperature. This is later sintered in a high temperature vacuum furnace with different sintering temperatures. The density of the samples was tested using Archimedes test. From the result of analysis of variance, composition and sintering temperature affect the density of the samples for pure and titanium alloy foams. The suitable compositions of pure and alloy titanium are 60 wt%, 65 wt%, 70 wt% and sintering temperatures are 1200°C, 1250°C and 1300°C to produce a high density for the pure and  titanium alloy foams.
Authentication Based on Seating Pressure Distribution using the MT System
Authors: Koshimizu Shigeomi , Koizumi Atsushi
Published: July 2014

This paper proposes a system for authentication based on seating pressure distribution, using the MT system as a new method of biometric authentication that is difficult to forge and does not inconvenience users. The main characteristic is that the only action required of the user is to sit down. Feature values were extracted based on the pressure distribution when individuals seat, and individual users were distinguished from other persons by means of the Mahalanobis-Taguchi (MT) system used in quality engineering. The result of the experiment was a False Rejection Rate of 2.2% and a False Acceptance Rate of 1.1%.
Quantification of Lard in the Mixture with Olive Oil in Cream Cosmetics Based on FTIR Spectra and Chemometrics for Halal Authentication
Authors: Rohman Abdul , Gupitasari Intan , Purwanto Purwanto , Triyana Kuwat , Rosman Arieff Salleh , Shuhel Ahmad Shahrel Ahmad , Mohd Yusof Farahwahida
Published: July 2014

The presence of lard (LD) in cosmetics products is a serious matter for certain religion, like Islam. The Muslim community is not allowed to use cosmetics products containing pig derivatives such as LD. Therefore, analysis of LD in cosmetics products is highly needed. The present study highlighted the employment of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy in combination with chemometrics of multivariate calibration and principle component analysis (PCA) for quantitative analysis and classification of LD in the binary mixture with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) as oil base in cream formulations for halal authentication. The lipid component in cream was extracted using liquid-liquid extraction using hexane as extracting solvent, and the lipid obtained was subjected to FTIR spectra measurement, using horizontal attenuated total reflectance as sampling technique. The result showed that FTIR spectroscopy in combination with partial least squares can be used to quantify the levels of LD in the mixture with EVOO in cosmetics creams using the combined frequency regions of 1785-702 cm-1 and 3020-2808 cm-1. PCA using absorbance intensities at 1200 – 1000 cm-1 as variables has been successfully used for the classification of cream with and without LD in the formulation. The developed method is rapid and not involving the excessive sample preparation.
Parking Generation by “Pharmacy” Land Use Type in Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Authors: Ahmed Ishtiaque , Ramli Izzul , Hainin Mohd Rosli
Published: July 2014

Transportation planners need prior data on "Parking Generations" for new developments and to predict changes in the parking generation due to modifications in the existing land use types. Parking Generations depends on various factors including the socioeconomic characteristics. The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) is an international body of transport professionals that publishes and updates the information on parking generation for various land use types in USA. In Malaysia, no parking generation guidebook exists. Transport planners in Malaysia have to depend on the parking generation data and models developed based on other countries which may be misleading and inaccurate. The ITE provides parking generation data for 106 different land use types including “Pharmacy”. The objective of the paper is to study the parking generation rate for the land use type "Pharmacy" and develop regression models for predicting daily parking generation by pharmacies based on the Johor Bahru environment in Malaysia. Data were collected from the selected thirteen (13) pharmacy locations in Johor Bahru area. The data collection also included a survey of stakeholders including information on a) gross floor space area b) available parking spaces adjacent to the pharmacy c) presence of similar pharmacies in the vicinity (500 m radius). Linear regression models were developed to predict peak hour parking generations by the “Pharmacy” land use type. The developed models are recommended to be used by the professionals for the Malaysian local environment.
The Self-Paced VO2max Test to Assess Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Highly Trained Runners
Authors: Hogg James S. , Hopker James G. , Mauger Alexis R.
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

The novel self-paced maximal-oxygen-uptake (VO2max) test (SPV) may be a more suitable alternative to traditional maximal tests for elite athletes due to the ability to self-regulate pace. This study aimed to examine whether the SPV can be administered on a motorized treadmill.

Methods:

Fourteen highly trained male distance runners performed a standard graded exercise test (GXT), an incline-based SPV (SPVincline), and a speed-based SPV (SPVspeed). The GXT included a plateau-verification stage. Both SPV protocols included 5 × 2-min stages (and a plateau-verification stage) and allowed for self-pacing based on fixed increments of rating of perceived exertion: 11, 13, 15, 17, and 20. The participants varied their speed and incline on the treadmill by moving between different marked zones in which the tester would then adjust the intensity.

Results:

There was no significant difference (P = .319, ES = 0.21) in the VO2max achieved in the SPVspeed (67.6 ± 3.6 mL · kg−1 · min−1, 95%CI = 65.6–69.7 mL · kg−1 · min−1) compared with that achieved in the GXT (68.6 ± 6.0 mL · kg−1 · min−1, 95%CI = 65.1–72.1 mL · kg−1 · min−1). Participants achieved a significantly higher VO2max in the SPVincline (70.6 ± 4.3 mL · kg−1 · min−1, 95%CI = 68.1–73.0 mL · kg−1 · min−1) than in either the GXT (P = .027, ES = 0.39) or SPVspeed (P = .001, ES = 0.76).

Conclusions:

The SPVspeed protocol produces VO2max values similar to those obtained in the GXT and may represent a more appropriate and athlete-friendly test that is more oriented toward the variable speed found in competitive sport.
Characteristics Explaining Performance in Downhill Mountain Biking
Authors: Chidley Joel B. , MacGregor Alexandra L. , Martin Caoimhe , Arthur Calum A. , Macdonald Jamie H.
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

To identify physiological, psychological, and skill characteristics that explain performance in downhill (DH) mountainbike racing.

Methods:

Four studies were used to (1) identify factors potentially contributing to DH performance (using an expert focus group), (2) develop and validate a measure of rider skill (using video analysis and expert judge evaluation), (3) evaluate whether physiological, psychological, and skill variables contribute to performance at a DH competition, and (4) test the specific contribution of aerobic capacity to DH performance.

Results:

Study 1 identified aerobic capacity, handgrip endurance, anaerobic power, rider skill, and self-confidence as potentially important for DH. In study 2 the rider-skill measure displayed good interrater reliability. Study 3 found that rider skill and handgrip endurance were significantly related to DH ride time (β = –0.76 and –0.14, respectively; R2 = .73), with exploratory analyses suggesting that DH ride time may also be influenced by self-confidence and aerobic capacity. Study 4 confirmed aerobic capacity as an important variable influencing DH performance (for a DH ride, mean oxygen uptake was 49 ± 5 mL · kg−1 · min−1, and 90% of the ride was completed above the 1st ventilatory threshold).

Conclusions:

In order of importance, rider skill, handgrip endurance, self-confidence, and aerobic capacity were identified as variables influencing DH performance. Practically, this study provides a novel assessment of rider skill that could be used by coaches to monitor training and identify talent. Novel intervention targets to enhance DH performance were also identified, including self-confidence and aerobic capacity.
The Test-Retest Reliability of Indirect Calorimetry Measures of Energy Expenditure During Overground Walking in Older Adults With Mobility Limitations
Authors: Wert David M. , VanSwearingen Jessie M. , Perera Subashan , Brach Jennifer S.
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to assess the relative and absolute reliability of metabolic measures of energy expenditure and gait speed during overground walking in older adults with mobility limitations. Thirty-three (mean age [SD] = 76.4 [6.6] years; 66% female) older adults with slow gait participated. Measures of energy expenditure and gait speed were recorded during two 6-min bouts of overground walking (1 week apart) at a self-selected “usual” walking pace. The relative reliability for all variables was excellent: ICC = .81−.91. Mean differences for five of the six outcome variables was less than or equal to the respected SEM, while all six mean differences fell below the calculated MDC95. Clinicians and researchers can be confident that metabolic measures of energy expenditure and gait speed in older adults with slow walking speeds can be reliably assessed during overground walking, providing an alternative to traditional treadmill assessments.
Varying Degrees of Support: Understanding Parents’ Positive Attitudes Toward LGBT Coaches
Authors: Cunningham George , Melton E. Nicole
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine parents’ supportive attitudes toward lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) coaches, as well as the sources of that support. The authors drew from the model of dual attitudes and a multilevel framework developed for the study to guide the analyses. Interviews were conducted with 10 parents who lived in the southwest United States. Analysis of the data revealed three different types of support: indifference, qualified support, and unequivocal support. Further analyses provided evidence of multilevel factors affecting the support, including those at the macro-level (religion), the meso-level (parental influences and contact with sexual minorities), and the micro-level (affective and cognitive influences) of analysis. Theoretical implications and contributions of the study are discussed.
The Functional Movement Screen’s Ability to Detect Changes in Movement Patterns After a Training Intervention
Authors: Minthorn Lindsay M. , Fayson Shirleeah D. , Stobierski Lisa M. , Welch Cailee E. , Anderson Barton E.
Published: July 2014

Clinical Scenario:

Appropriate movement patterns during sports and physical activities are important for both athletic performance and injury prevention. The assessment of movement dysfunction can assist clinicians in implementing appropriate rehabilitation programs after injury, as well as developing injury-prevention plans. No gold standard test exists for the evaluation of movement capacity; however, the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) has been recommended as a tool to screen for movement-pattern limitations and side-to-side movement asymmetries. Limited research has suggested that movement limitations and asymmetries may be linked to increased risk for injury. While this line of research is continuing to evolve, the use of the FMS to measure movement capacity and the development of intervention programs to improve movement patterns has become popular. Recently, additional research examining changes in movement patterns after standardized intervention programs has emerged.

Clinical Question:

Does an individualized training program improve movement patterns in adults who participate in high-intensity activities?