bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychology and its history
Authors: Danziger Kurt
Published: December 2013

During its relatively short history as a distinct discipline, psychology was accompanied by a historiography that projected the idea of psychology back to ancient times when such an idea did not in fact exist. As the modern discipline proliferated into a collection of weakly connected sub-disciplines, the textbook image of psychology’s ancient essence suggested that, in spite of the current messy reality, the subject had an unchanging core object that had always been there to be recognized. Earlier, that object was the psyche, later it was “human nature,” and more recently, the principles of human cognition. However, historiography plays a more useful role within the discipline when it takes the current multiplicity of psychological objects as its point of departure and explores the social context of their emergence. This entails a historical analysis of the language used to define, describe, categorize, and modify psychological objects.
Separating models, ideas, and data to avoid a paradox: Rejoinder to Humphry
Authors: Sijtsma Klaas , Emons Wilco H. M.
Published: December 2013

This article is a rejoinder to Humphry’s (2013) comment on Sijtsma (2012). Sijtsma argued that the Rasch paradox does not exist but Humphry replies that the Rasch paradox can occur provided the measurement procedure is precise enough. The rejoinder argues that the debates about the Rasch paradox mingle properties of formal psychometric models, ideas about what people do when they respond to the items in a test, and the kind of data they produce. The three levels of formal models, ideas about response processes, and real data should be distinguished in order to prevent confusion. Then the conclusion remains that the Rasch paradox does not exist.
A word more…
Authors: Robinson Daniel N.
Published: December 2013

Psychology’s place is secure within the history of ideas even if systematically overlooked by those who would professionalize intellectual inquiry. At base the controversy featured here is between a misplaced positivism and the humanistic project of History. Exercises in the sociology of knowledge are not paths to understanding but departures from those paths.
Subacute lupus erythematosus during treatment with golimumab for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Brunasso AMG , Aberer W , Massone C
Published: December 2013

We report on a 52-year-old woman with a history of severe seronegative rheumatoid arthritis. Several conventional therapies and biological therapy with etanercept and infliximab had been unsuccessful. In 2010 she was given golimumab subcutaneously at a monthly dose of 50 mg. She had a negative ANA titre. After 16 months of uninterrupted therapy and sustained response, she developed skin lesions on the upper trunk, back and upper extremities, which worsened on exposure to the sun. The skin biopsy was compatible with subacute lupus erythematosus. Laboratory findings included an ANA titre 1:640, negative anti-Ro/SSA and anti-DNA antibodies. Topical corticosteroid therapy proved inadequate. The patient’s condition improved only after discontinuation of golimumab. The causal relationship between subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus and golimumab is not dose-related and occurs with some delay (a typical feature of immunological adverse reactions). The association is likely, but not confirmed (because re-challenge was not performed). However, a clear improvement was noted after withdrawal. Based on this case, we hypothesized the aetiological role of golimumab-associated immunogenicity.

TNF-α antagonist-induced lupus-like syndrome (TAILS) is a well-known side effect of this class of substances. The British Society of Rheumatology recommends discontinuation of the causal anti-TNF-α treatment in patients with TAILS.
Extremely hypotrophic newborn of mother with systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Mockova A , Dortova E , Dort J , Nahlovsky J , Korecko V , Ulcova-Gallova Z
Published: December 2013

The case presented describes a high-risk pregnancy of a woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with multiple lesions of central nervous system (CNS), vasculitis, secondary epilepsy and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). At gestational age 28 weeks and 3 days the pregnancy was urgently terminated via caesarean section and an extremely hypotrophic immature newborn with a birth weight of 580 g was born. The high disease activity in the mother at the time of conception and the histologically proven chronic placental insufficiency due to APS are presumably the causes for the extensive hypotrophy of the neonate. The significant comorbidity of the newborn, including respiratory distress syndrome, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, osteopathy of prematurity, transient hypothyroidism and hypocortisolism, vesicoureteral reflux, and hypertonic-hyperexcitation syndrome complicated his three-month stay in NICU. A positive titre of transplacentally transferred anticardiolipin and anti-β2 glycoprotein antibody was detected in the child and persisted through the following 30 months. During the three-year follow-up, significantly delayed neuropsychological development with microcephaly (−4 SD) and short stature of the child was observed. Finally, the authors discuss possible causes of neuropsychological consequences in children of mothers with SLE and APS and emphasize the need for long-term monitoring and specialized care to improve development of these children.
An Investigation into Consumer Behaviour for Energy Labelled Products
Authors: Sharma Kavita , Gupta Garima
Published: December 2013

In the competitive marketing environment, products serve almost equal utility and functionality, necessitating for the consumers to undergo complex decision making. A varied set of parameters such as price, quality, design and energy efficiency are therefore applied to facilitate comparison between the products. In this context, the present article gauges the importance and influence of energy labels—indicating the energy efficiency of electronic product—in exerting product choice from the perspective of Indian consumers. Using questionnaire based technique, the study attempts to assess the role of energy labels in affecting consumer decision making in the context of four products namely laptop, room heater, refrigerator and CFL. Statistical techniques such as factor analysis, paired sample t-test and ANOVA were chosen for the purpose of testing the proposed research hypotheses. Quality, Knowledge, Certification, Concern and Complexity, the dimensions of customer perception about energy label were found varying across demographic factors. Study reports energy label perceptions differ across low, moderate and highly supportive behaviour exhibited towards energy labelled products. The study draws its implications towards the use of energy label as a matter of policy tool and its effectiveness in Indian context.
Modelling Daily CER Price Volatility in European Energy Exchange: Evidence from MSARIMA-EGARCH Model
Authors: Kapoor Nimisha
Published: December 2013

This study tries to model time varying volatility of daily Certified Emission Reduction (CER) prices traded in European Energy Exchange by employing MSARIMA and EGARCH models. CER prices have further been sub-divided into various time-periods with the objective of comparing the price movement and volatility in each sub-period between two successive COP (Conferences of the Parties). Apart from volatility modelling, the study also tries to forecasts daily CER price using MSARIMA-EGARCH models. The study reveals that CER price exhibits non-stationarity, seasonality and time-varying volatility. MSARIMA-EGARCH model confirms that past shocks to the variance are symmetric in nature and shocks to CER price volatility take some time before it dies away. In-sample forecasting performances reveal that MSARIMA slightly outperform ARIMA-EGARCH model. The study also indicates that the periods between Copenhagen Summit (COP 15) and Cancun Summit (COP 16) and post Durban summit, CER price do not exhibit any time varying volatility.
Developing a Performance Measurement System for Apparel Sector Lean Manufacturing Organizations in Sri Lanka
Authors: Perera P.S.T. , Perera H.S.C.
Published: December 2013

Performance measurements systems were rarely adapted to changing manufacturing environments. Lean is one such practice aiming at productivity improvements. Non-cost performance improvements resulting from lean makes the inadequacy of traditional measurements for evaluating performance. Sri Lankan apparel manufacturers adapt lean manufacturing to meet global business challenges. However a study has not been done to develop an appropriate performance measurement system for lean environment in Sri Lankan apparel sector lean practicing companies. This study develops such a model from literature review and interview. Finally it is validated with the existing models.
Long-term Association of Stock Markets of Different Nations: An Empirical Study
Authors: Rastogi Shailesh
Published: December 2013

Globalization has its own problems. Though, it was brought as a solution to many issues and going to be a life changer. It was like that but along with that, globalization has integrated the world and any problem coming to one corner gets percolated to other corners of the world soon. In stock market this issue is more prominent because stock market works on information which is reflected in the share prices. In this article the impact of long-term integration among the stock markets is studied. Johansen’s Co-integration test in Vector Auto Regressive (VAR) framework has been used to establish the long-term association among the stock markets. Financial crisis of 2008 has been used as reference point and comparison in the long-term association has been studied. It was found that the long-term association is present and has been decreased after the crisis.
“How Often? How Much? Where From?” Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Mothers and Health Workers to Iron Supplementation Program for Children Under Five in Rural Tamil Nadu, South India
Authors: Kwon Hye Jin , Ramasamy Rajkumar , Morgan Alison
Published: December 2013

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) affects 70% of under-5 children in India. The primary prevention strategy is regular iron supplementation. Little is known about what helps families adhere to daily iron supplementation. Our study explored the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers and village health workers (VHWs) involved in a community health program in one hill district of Tamil Nadu. We conducted 30 semistructured interviews and 3 group discussions involving mothers, VHWs, and community stakeholders. Knowledge of IDA was widespread, yet no children were receiving the iron supplementation as recommended. The main determinants to adherence included the perception of its need, the ease of access, and the activity of VHWs. Preventive care requiring daily supplements is challenging. Our study suggests that increasing community awareness of mild anemia, simplifying dosage instructions, and further strengthening the supportive environment for VHWs would help in reducing the prevalence of IDA.
Surgical Technique, Fusion Rates, and Planovalgus Foot Deformity Correction With Naviculocuneiform Fusion
Authors: Ajis Adam , Geary Nicholas
Published: December 2013

Background:

Arthrodesis of the naviculocuneiform (NC) joints is not a common procedure, as it is perceived by many to be less reliable or less predictable than arthrodesis of proximal or distal joints in the medial column. There is a subset of patients with planovalgus feet, cavovarus feet, and degenerative arthritis who also have an apex of deformity at the NC joints in whom fusion is indicated. The surgical technique, fusion rates, and deformity correction data for NC fusion in planovalgus feet are evaluated in this report.

Methods:

Twenty-eight patients (33 feet) who underwent surgery between October 2008 and November 2012 were identified who had NC fusion as their only arthrodesis procedure. Medical records and radiographs were reviewed, and time to union was calculated. Twenty patients from that group underwent NC fusion for symptomatic planovalgus feet, and their preoperative and last postoperative weight-bearing radiographs were reviewed and compared for deformity correction. All patients were operated on by the senior author or a senior foot and ankle trainee during fellowship using the same surgical technique, and all patients followed a standardized postoperative rehabilitation protocol.

Results:

Mean time to union for all 33 NC fusions was 21.7 ± 2 weeks (mean ± SEM). One patient underwent revision for nonunion, resulting in an arthrodesis rate of 97%. For NC fusions in those with planovalgus feet, an improvement in mean lateral talus–first metatarsal angle (Meary’s line) from 12.3 ± 1.3 degrees to 5.2 ± 1.2 degrees ( P < .05) was found. There was also a mean improvement in talonavicular coverage angle from 14.1 ± 1.8 degrees to 7.4 ± 1.3 degrees ( P < .05). There were 2 superficial wound infections that were successfully treated with oral antibiotics, there were no cases of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, and all patients came out of cast at 6 weeks into a fixed angle boot to commence weight bearing. Patients were happy with 32 of the 33 procedures and required no further treatment for their condition.

Conclusions:

NC fusion was a safe and predictable procedure for any of its indications, with a fusion rate similar to that of other joints in the foot albeit with a longer time to union. For patients with symptomatic and flexible planovalgus feet, NC fusion resulted in deformity correction in multiple planes and good symptomatic relief.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Does applying technology throughout the medication use process improve patient safety with antineoplastics?
Authors: Bubalo Joseph , Warden Bruce A , Wiegel Joshua J , Nishida Tess , Handel Evelyn , Svoboda Leanne M , Nguyen Lam , Edillo P Neil
Published: December 2013

Purpose

Medical errors, in particular medication errors, continue to be a troublesome factor in the delivery of safe and effective patient care. Antineoplastic agents represent a group of medications highly susceptible to medication errors due to their complex regimens and narrow therapeutic indices. As the majority of these medication errors are frequently associated with breakdowns in poorly defined systems, developing technologies and evolving workflows seem to be a logical approach to provide added safeguards against medication errors.

This article will review both the pros and cons of today's technologies and their ability to simplify the medication use process, reduce medication errors, improve documentation, improve healthcare costs and increase provider efficiency as relates to the use of antineoplastic therapy throughout the medication use process. Several technologies, mainly computerized provider order entry (CPOE), barcode medication administration (BCMA), smart pumps, electronic medication administration record (eMAR), and telepharmacy, have been well described and proven to reduce medication errors, improve adherence to quality metrics, and/or improve healthcare costs in a broad scope of patients. The utilization of these technologies during antineoplastic therapy is weak at best and lacking for most. Specific to the antineoplastic medication use system, the only technology with data to adequately support a claim of reduced medication errors is CPOE. In addition to the benefits these technologies can provide, it is also important to recognize their potential to induce new types of errors and inefficiencies which can negatively impact patient care.

Conclusion

The utilization of technology reduces but does not eliminate the potential for error. The evidence base to support technology in preventing medication errors is limited in general but even more deficient in the realm of antineoplastic therapy. Though CPOE has the best evidence to support its use in the antineoplastic population, benefit from many other technologies may have to be inferred based on data from other patient populations. As health systems begin to widely adopt and implement new technologies it is important to critically assess their effectiveness in improving patient safety.
Dosing of carboplatin in a patient with amputated legs: A case report
Authors: van Gorp F , van Rens MThM , Kuck EM , Rozemeijer R , Huitema ADR , Brouwers EEM
Published: December 2013

Carboplatin is a platinum derivative that is commonly used in combination chemotherapy for treatment of several malignancies, including small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Because the estimated glomerular filtration rate, and therefore the carboplatin dose, is based on the serum creatinine level, dosing of carboplatin for amputees is a challenge. This case report describes how serum carboplatin levels were used to determine the most suitable carboplatin dose for an amputee. The patient received four cycles of etoposide in combination with carboplatin area under the curve =5 mg·min/ml, with a dose reduction of 25% and concurrent radiotherapy. The measured area under the curve was found to be 3.41 mg·min/ml, while the target area under the curve was 3.75 mg·min/ml (75% of 5 mg·min/ml). Therefore, for the next cycles, the carboplatin dose was calculated using the Calvert formula. No recurrence of disease was seen within two years after completion of therapy. This case demonstrates that therapeutic drug monitoring can successfully be used to determine the carboplatin dose for an amputee.
Quasistatic adhesive contact delaminating in mixed mode and its numerical treatment
Authors: Kružík Martin , Panagiotopoulos Christos G , Roubíček Tomáš
Published: December 2013

An adhesive unilateral contact between visco-elastic bodies at small strains and in a Kelvin–Voigt rheology is scrutinized, neglecting inertia. The flow-rule for debonding the adhesive is considered rate independent, unidirectional, and non-associative due to dependence on the mixity of modes of delamination, namely Mode I (opening) needs (= dissipates) less energy than Mode II (shearing). Such mode-mixity dependence of delamination is a very pronounced (and experimentally confirmed) phenomenon typically considered in engineering models. An efficient semi-implicit-in-time FEM discretization leading to recursive quadratic mathematical programs is devised. Its convergence and thus the existence of weak solutions is proved. Computational experiments implemented by BEM illustrate the modeling aspects and the numerical efficiency of the discretization.
Buckling of residually stressed plates: An asymptotic approach
Authors: Paroni Roberto , Tomassetti Giuseppe
Published: December 2013

We consider a residually stressed plate-like body having the shape of a cylinder of cross-section ω and thickness hε, subjected to a system of loads proportional to a positive multiplier λ. We look for the smallest value of the multiplier such that the plate buckles, the so-called critical multiplier. The critical multiplier is computed by minimizing a functional whose domain of definition is a collection of vector fields defined in the three-dimensional region Ωε = ω ×(− εh/2,+ εh/2). We let ε → 0 and we show that if the residual stress and the incremental stress induced by the applied loads scale with ε in a suitable manner, then the critical multiplier converges to a limit that can be computed by minimizing a functional whose domain is a collection of scalar fields defined on the two-dimensional region ω. In the special case of null residual stress, the Euler–Lagrange equations associated to this functional coincide with the classical equations governing plate buckling.
Thoracoscopy in the cat
Authors: Radlinsky MaryAnn
Published: December 2013

Practical relevance:

Thoracoscopy provides a minimally invasive means of diagnosis and offers many important benefits when compared with open thoracotomy.

Clinical challenges:

The expense of the equipment, the steep learning curve required to gain proficiency in thoracoscopic surgery, and the limitations imposed by the feline thoracic cavity, in terms of working and viewing space, are some of the challenges that have limited its uptake to date. However, it is envisaged that it will increase as a technique in feline medicine, in much the same way as laparoscopy has.

Audience:

This article is directed at veterinarians currently performing open thoracic surgery and the associated aftercare who concurrently are adept at endoscopic surgery.

Evidence base:

The article draws on the small body of literature that is available on thoracoscopy in cats, which includes reports of its use for evaluation and management of undiagnosed pleural effusion, lung lobe torsion, persistent right aortic arch and chylothorax.
The future
Authors: Fransson Boel
Published: December 2013

Practical relevance:

Laparoscopic surgery minimizes tissue trauma and speeds recovery, but its uptake into veterinary clinical practice has been slow.

Clinical challenges:

Laparoscopy is distinctly different from traditional open surgery and a reduced working area and loss of depth perception are among the challenges that the surgeon must get to grips with. Indeed, it is often lack of the necessary skills, rather than the cost of equipment, that presents the greatest obstacle.

Audience:

This article is aimed at practitioners keen to embrace minimally invasive surgery and advises on how to develop excellence in laparoscopic skills. It makes the case for simulation training and outlines methods that can be instituted in practice at low cost and with comparatively little time expenditure. It also describes technological advances that have already increased the success of veterinary ‘keyhole’ surgery, as well as those that look promising for the future.

Evidence base:

Simulation training has been an intense area of research and publication within the past 15 years. This article draws on that evidence base and the experience gained by the author and her research team, which is at the forefront of efforts to develop laparoscopic training for veterinarians.
2013 AAFP Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel Report
Authors: Scherk M A , Ford R B , Gaskell R M , Hartmann K , Hurley K F , Lappin M R , Levy J K , Little S E , Nordone S K , Sparkes A H
Published: December 2013

Regrettably, two errors appeared in the 2013 AAFP Feline Vaccination Advisory Panel Report. Firstly, in the ‘Injectable vaccine administration’ box, on page 798, the pictures in Figures 8 and 9 were swapped with each other. The amended box is reproduced here. Secondly, the penultimate sentence in the second ‘Trap–Neuter–Return’ FAQ on page 804 should have read: ‘In contrast, only inactivated vaccines resulted in a high rate of protective antibodies against FHV-1,’ and not ‘In contrast, only modified-live vaccines …’. The errors appear in the printed copies of the journal, and in online versions downloaded before November 2013.

DOI of original article: 10.1177/1098612X13500429

DOI: 10.1177/1098612X13511888
Educating consent? A conversation with Noam Chomsky on the university and business school education
Authors: Fleming Peter , Oswick Cliff
Published: December 2013

In what follows, we present a conversation with Professor Noam Chomsky on the topic of whether the business school might be a site for progressive political change. The conversation covers a number of key issues related to pedagogy, corporate social responsibility and working conditions in the contemporary business school. We hope the conversion will contribute to the ongoing discussion about the role of the business school in neoliberal societies.
People with dementia and carers’ experiences of dementia care and services: Outcomes of a focus group study
Authors: Sutcliffe Caroline L , Roe Brenda , Jasper Rowan , Jolley David , Challis David J
Published: December 2013

An ageing population and an associated increase in the prevalence of dementia are of increasing concern in the United Kingdom and worldwide. Recently, the United Kingdom and other European countries implemented national dementia strategies to address this. This paper reports on the outcomes of a focus group study involving people with dementia and carers on their experiences of dementia care and support services in relation to government and third sector agencies’ objectives and recommendations. Three focus groups comprising carers and people with dementia ( n = 27) were undertaken covering topics related to experiences, service receipt, information sharing and service development. Some participants experienced difficulties or delays in receiving a dementia diagnosis and in accessing appropriate care. The provision of training, timeliness of information, access to appropriate advice, and consistent and flexible services were deemed important. The findings suggest that some issues raised by participants were highlighted in earlier policy objectives and recommendations but remain of central concern. The projected growth in the number of people with dementia coupled with reduced availability of informal care and increased demand for services emphasises the need to transform dementia care in the United Kingdom.
A qualitative study of patients' experiences of a nurse-led memory clinic
Authors: Stirling Christine , Campbell Briony , Bentley Michael , Bucher Hazel , Morrissey Martin
Published: December 2013

Little is known about patients' decision-making to attend a nurse-led memory clinic (NLMC) or of their experiences in the months following attendance. This paper reports qualitative follow-up data from 13 participants who attended a NLMC run by a Nurse Practitioner, and who were interviewed later in their own homes. Participants attended the NLMC seeking ‘benchmarking’ against the broader population or confirmation of diagnosis, with the Nurse Practitioner perceived as having more time to talk. Although we anticipated that participants would have changed some behaviours to incorporate ‘brain health material’, we found that the focus was on maintaining current capacity and lifestyle with most participants delaying planning and decisions about future lifestyle changes until ‘necessary’. Understanding why people contact a NLMC and how their participation influences future planning can help us better target health care messages with the aim of improving health literacy.
Couples constructing their experiences of dementia: A relational perspective
Authors: Merrick Kimberley , Camic Paul M , O’Shaughnessy Margaret
Published: December 2013

Many people with dementia are cared for by their spouse or partner, therefore there is a need to understand the ways in which dementia and couple relationships impact upon each other. This study aimed to contribute to our understanding of the experience of dementia from a relational perspective. Seven couples, in which one person had a diagnosis of dementia, were interviewed about their experience of being in a couple where one partner had a diagnosis of dementia. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, five master themes were identified, which illustrated how couples constructed their experience of dementia in order to make sense of it, and describe the processes that they adopt in order to adjust to dementia. Findings were supported by existing empirical and theoretical literature and suggest that services and interventions could be enhanced if a relational understanding of dementia were more fully considered.
Education for nurses working in cardiovascular care: A European survey
Authors:   The Working Group of the Education Committee of the ESC Council on Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions, Astin Felicity , Carroll Diane L , De Geest Sabina , Martensson Jan , Jones Ian , Hunterbuchner Lynne , Jennings Catriona , Kletsiou Eleni , Serafin Agnieska , Timmins Fiona
Published: December 2013

Background:

Nurses represent the largest sector of the workforce caring for people with cardiovascular disease in Europe. Little is known about the post-registration education provided to nurses working within this specialty. The aim of this descriptive cross sectional survey was to describe the structure, content, teaching, learning, assessment and evaluation methods used in post-registration cardiovascular nurse education programmes in Europe.

Method:

A 24-item researcher generated electronic questionnaire was sent to nurse representatives from 23 European countries. Items included questions about cardiovascular registered nurse education programmes.

Results:

Forty-nine respondents from 17 European countries completed questionnaires. Respondents were typically female (74%) and educated at Masters (50%) or doctoral (39%) level. Fifty-one percent of the cardiovascular nursing education programmes were offered by universities either at bachelor or masters level. The most frequently reported programme content included cardiac arrhythmias (93%), heart failure (85%) and ischaemic heart disease (83%). The most common teaching mode was face-to-face lectures (85%) and/or seminars (77%). A variety of assessment methods were used with an exam or knowledge test being the most frequent. Programme evaluation was typically conducted through student feedback (95%).

Conclusion:

There is variability in the content, teaching, learning and evaluation methods in post-registration cardiovascular nurse education programmes in Europe. Cardiovascular nurse education would be strengthened with a stronger focus upon content that reflects current health challenges faced in Europe. A broader view of cardiovascular disease to include stroke and peripheral vascular disease is recommended with greater emphasis on prevention, rehabilitation and the impact of health inequalities.
Damage detection and full surface characterization of a wind turbine blade using three-dimensional digital image correlation
Authors: LeBlanc Bruce , Niezrecki Christopher , Avitabile Peter , Chen Julie , Sherwood James
Published: December 2013

The increasing demand for wind power has led to a significant increase in the number and size of wind turbine blades manufactured globally. As the number and physical size of turbines deployed grow, the probability of manufacturing defects being present in composite turbine blades also increases. As capital blade costs and operational and maintenance expenses increase in ever larger turbine systems, the need for inspection of the structural health of large-scale turbine blades during operation critically increases. One method for locating and quantifying manufacturing defects, while also allowing for the in situ measurement of the structural health of blades, is monitoring the full-field deformation and strain of a blade. In a demonstration of this methodology, static tests were performed on a Sandia National Laboratories CX-100 9-m composite turbine blade to extract full-field displacement and strain measurements. Three-dimensional digital image correlation was used. Measurements were taken at previously identified damaged areas near the blade root, along the high- and low-pressure surfaces. The results indicate that the measurement approach can clearly identify failure locations and discontinuities in the blade curvature under load. Postprocessing of the data, using a stitching technique of digital image correlation snapshots taken along the length of the blade, allows observation of the shape and curvature of the entire blade. The experiment demonstrates the feasibility of the approach and reveals that the technique can be readily scaled to accommodate utility-scale blades. As long as a trackable pattern is applied to the surface of the blade, measurements can be made in situ when a blade is on a manufacturing floor, installed in a test fixture, or installed on a rotating turbine. The results demonstrate the potential of the optical measurement technique for use in the wind industry.
Noncontact monitoring of immersed plates by means of laser-induced ultrasounds
Authors: Pistone Elisabetta , Li Kaiyuan , Rizzo Piervincenzo
Published: December 2013

This article presents the results of an experimental and numerical study where guided ultrasonic waves were used for the structural health monitoring/nondestructive evaluation of an immersed aluminum plate. Leaky Lamb waves were generated by means of a pulsed laser and detected by an array of immersion transducers. The signals were then processed using continuous wavelet transform to extract few damage-sensitive features that were fed to an unsupervised learning algorithm based on outlier analysis. The experimental setup was simulated numerically using a commercial finite element software to predict the time of arrival of the propagating modes. In order to assess the capability of the monitoring system to detect damage, four defects were devised on the plate prior to the immersion in water. We found that the noncontact probing system and the signal processing enable the detection of cracks and holes.
EEG Database of Seizure Disorders for Experts and Application Developers
Authors: Selvaraj Thomas George , Ramasamy Balakrishnan , Jeyaraj Stanly Johnson , Suviseshamuthu Easter Selvan
Published: December 2013

This article presents an online accessible electroencephalogram (EEG) database, where the EEG recordings comprise abnormal patterns such as spikes, poly spikes, slow waves, and sharp waves to help diagnose related disorders. The data, as of now, are a collection of EEGs from a diagnostic center in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, and the data samples pertain to an age-group ranging from 1 to 107 years. Eventually, the EEG data concerning other disorders as well as those from other institutions will be included. The present database provides information under the following categories: major classification of the disorder, patient’s record, digitized EEG, and specific diagnosis; in addition, a search facility is incorporated into the database. The mode of access by the domain experts, application developers, and researchers, along with a few classical applications are explained in this article. With the advance of clinical neuroscience, this database will be helpful in developing software for applications such as diagnosis and treatment.
Adherence reporting in randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhang Ze , Peluso Michael J , Gross Cary P , Viscoli Catherine M , Kernan Walter N
Published: December 2013

Background

Treatment adherence may influence the therapeutic effect that is observed in a randomized controlled trial (RCT). Adherence may also be an indicator of research quality and treatment acceptance by participants. Despite the importance of adherence in RCT research, little is known about current practices for its measurement and reporting.

Purpose

The objective of this study was to determine and evaluate adherence measurement and reporting practices in RCTs involving oral pharmacologic interventions published in high impact factor journals.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of RCTs involving oral pharmacotherapy published during 2010 in 10 high-impact general medicine and subspecialty journals. Two investigators independently abstracted data regarding trial characteristics, adherence monitoring, and adherence reporting. Differences were reconciled in conference. Descriptive statistics were calculated, statistical comparisons were made using chi-square analysis, and associations assessed using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.

Results

Of 111 RCT manuscripts included in the sample, 51 (45.9%) reported study-drug adherence among participants. Studies that reported adherence results were more likely to report negative findings (i.e., no significant treatment effect in a superiority trial, non-equivalence in an equivalence trial) (p = 0.032). The most common method for adherence monitoring was pill count-back on returned bottles. Among the studies that reported adherence, the median adherence was 88.4% (range: 48%−100%), and trials with longer follow-up time reported lower adherence (r = −0.45; p = 0.0015). A minority of the 51 studies described a strategy for calculating adherence that accounted for participants who were lost to follow-up (11/51 studies; 21.6%), discontinued the study medication temporarily (6/51 studies; 11.8%), or discontinued the study drug permanently (1/51 study; 2%).

Limitations

This study is limited by the inclusion of a small set of journals with the highest impact factors in specific fields of clinical medicine, including general medicine. Although the analysis pertains to studies published in 2010, no new guidelines in the field since the last Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) statement have been issued that would be expected to change practices for adherence monitoring, analysis, and reporting.

Conclusions

Adherence measurement methodology and results are underreported in published RCTs. In the minority of RCTs that provided adherence information, there was substantial heterogeneity in how adherence was defined, analyzed, and reported. Improved reporting of adherence may enhance the interpretation of study quality and results.
A case study in scanner optimisation
Authors: Dudley NJ , Gibson NM
Published: December 2013

Ultrasound scanner preset programmes are factory set or tailored to user requirements. Scanners may, therefore, have different settings for the same application, even on similar equipment in a single department. The aims of this study were: (1) to attempt to match the performance of two scanners, where one was preferred and (2) to assess differences between six scanners used for breast ultrasound within our organisation. The Nottingham Ultrasound Quality Assurance software was used to compare imaging performance. Images of a Gammex RMI 404GS test object were collected from six scanners, using default presets, factory presets and settings matched to a preferred scanner. Resolution, low contrast performance and high contrast performance were measured. The performance of two scanners was successfully matched, where one had been preferred. Default presets varied across the six scanners, three different presets being used. The most used preset differed in settings across the scanners, most notably in the use of different frequency modes. The factory preset was more consistent across the scanners, the main variation being in dynamic range (55–70 dB). Image comparisons showed significant differences, which were reduced or eliminated by adjustment of settings to match a reference scanner. It is possible to match scanner performance using the Nottingham Ultrasound Quality Assurance software as a verification tool. Ultrasound users should be aware that scanners may not behave in a similar fashion, even with apparently equivalent presets. It should be possible to harmonise presets by consensus amongst users.
Test–retest reliability and validity of normative cut-offs of the two devices measuring touch threshold: Weinstein Enhanced Sensory Test and Pressure-Specified Sensory Device
Authors: Uddin Zakir , MacDermid Joy C , Ham Hyungjoo H
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Touch threshold screening instruments must accurately distinguish normal versus abnormal sensation to screen nerve pathology. This study was conducted to find out whether two touch threshold measuring devices (i.e. Weinstein Enhanced Sensory Test (WEST) and Pressure-Specified Sensory Device (PSSD) provide consistent results and indicators of “normal” sensation, and secondarily what rules best define normality.

Methods

The study design was a cross-sectional reliability and validity assessment with 23 healthy participants. Instruments were applied in random order on the pulp of the middle and little fingers of both hands; with five applications on each digit. Cut-offs of 3, 4, and 5 correct responses were used to classify the response as being normal. Weighted kappa and percent agreement were used to indicate test–retest reliability of the WEST, and validity was determined by calculating the percentage of normal controls that achieved a normal score. The Bland–Altman method was used to characterize the retest reliability of PSSD, and validity was determined by whether the mean of the score is different from the normative scores.

Results

The agreement between test and retest of WEST (detection level = 3/5) was almost perfect ( k = 1). The average percentages of normal detection of the WEST on two test/retest were 93% and 97% (detection level = 4/5) and 82% and 85% (detection level = 5/5). All mean PSSD tests values were found within the predetermined normal range. The Bland–Altman plot demonstrated a minimal mean difference between test occasions and similar limits of agreement across the four test locations.

Discussion

The study found that more than 90% of the tests with healthy young participants were reliable and valid in relation to their ability to detect a normal WEST filament or PSSD within a normal force range. Our study was limited by a small sample with healthy participants.
Rituximab is associated with improved survival in Burkitt lymphoma: a retrospective analysis from two US academic medical centers
Authors: Wildes Tanya M. , Farrington Laura , Yeung Cecilia , Harrington Alexandra M. , Foyil Kelley V. , Liu Jingxia , Kreisel Friederike , Bartlett Nancy L. , Fenske Timothy S.
Published: December 2013

Background:

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a rare, highly aggressive B-cell malignancy treated most successfully with brief-duration, high-intensity chemotherapeutic regimens. The benefit of the addition of rituximab to these regimens remains uncertain. We sought to examine the effectiveness of chemotherapy with and without rituximab in patients with BL.

Methods:

This study is a retrospective cohort study of all adult patients with BL diagnosed and treated with modern, dose-intense chemotherapeutic regimens from 1998–2008 at two tertiary care institutions. All cases were confirmed by application of WHO 2008 criteria by hematopathologists. Medical records were reviewed for patient-, disease-, and treatment- related factors as well as treatment response and survival. Factors associated with survival were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards modeling.

Results:

A total of 35 patients were analyzed: 18 patients received rituximab with chemotherapy (R-chemo) and 17 received chemotherapy (chemo) alone. The median age was 42 (range 20–74 years); 57% were male; 71% had Ann Arbor Stage IV disease; 33% had central nervous system involvement; 78% had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0–1. R-chemo was associated with significantly longer overall survival (OS) than chemo alone (5-year OS 70% and 29%, respectively, p = 0.040). On multivariate regression analysis, poor performance status and central nervous system involvement were associated with poorer survival.

Conclusions:

The addition of rituximab to chemotherapy was associated with improved OS in patients with Burkitt lymphoma. Poor performance status and central nervous system involvement were prognostically significant on multivariate analysis.
Early feeding and neonatal hypoglycemia in infants of diabetic mothers
Authors: Cordero Leandro , Ramesh Shilpa , Hillier Kirsty , Giannone Peter J , Nankervis Craig A
Published: December 2013

Objectives:

To examine the effects of early formula feeding or breast-feeding on hypoglycemia in infants born to 303 A1-A2 and 88 Class B-RF diabetics.

Methods:

Infants with hypoglycemia (blood glucose < 40 mg/dL) were breast-fed or formula-fed, and those with recurrences were given intravenous dextrose.

Results:

Of 293 infants admitted to the well-baby nursery, 87 (30%) had hypoglycemia, corrected by early feeding in 75 (86%), while 12 (14%) required intravenous dextrose. In all, 98 infants were admitted to the newborn intensive care unit for respiratory distress (40%), prematurity (33%) or prevention of hypoglycemia (27%). Although all newborn intensive care unit patients received intravenous dextrose, 22 (22%) had hypoglycemia. Of 109 hypoglycemia episodes, 89 (82%) were single low occurrences. At discharge, 56% of well-baby nursery and 43% of newborn intensive care unit infants initiated breast-feeding.

Conclusions:

Hypoglycemia among infants of diabetic mothers can be corrected by early breast-feeding or formula feeding.
Up or Down, Which Way Will We Go? Looking again at 1 Thessalonians 4.13-18
Authors: Ellingworth Paul
Published: December 2013

The article examines recent discussions of 1 Thess 4.13-18, with particular reference to expressions stating or implying movement.
Hyperbole in Acts 10.15 and 11.9?
Authors: Aplin Max
Published: December 2013

In the accounts of Peter’s vision of a sheet full of animals descending from the sky in Acts 10.9-16 and 11.5-10, a voice comes to him that is usually translated, “What God has made clean, you must not consider defiled,” or with words very similar to these. In fact, there is probably a kind of hyperbole in the second clause, and in a translation that seeks to represent the Greek closely it is much better to translate, “What God has made clean, you must not defile!”
Ha-na-nim: A Korean Divine Name Taken Over for the Israelite God
Authors: Kee Min Suc
Published: December 2013

It has been a successful venture for the Israelite god to take the name of the most respected god in Korea. Against the polytheistic background of the country, it seems that orthographical disputes over the name ha-na-nim have served to stir up the monotheistic zeal of Korean Protestants, giving support to their passionate mission of proclaiming the absolute oneness of God. As far as the orthography of the name is concerned, the logic of correct grammar has been set aside in the face of practicality and religious fervor around the name ha-na-nim.
Implementing Panel Management for Hypertension in a Low-Income, Urban, Primary Care Setting
Authors: Chuang Elizabeth , Ganti Valli , Alvi Afshan , Yandrapu Harathi , Dalal Mehul
Published: December 2013

Objective: Panel management is a system of care that targets groups of patients with similar needs to improve their quality of care. The purpose of this pilot was to determine whether panel management could improve blood pressure control in patients with previously uncontrolled hypertension and to explore how panel management can be integrated in an urban, low-income, primary care setting. Methods: The practice coach model was used to assist a clinical site in forming a quality improvement team to implement panel management. The team created a patient registry to track hypertensive patients over time and to recall patients with uncontrolled hypertension for planned care visits during which evidence-based interventions for hypertension were delivered. Percent of patients gaining control of blood pressure and change in blood pressure were measured between 6 and 9 months after enrollment. Qualitative interviews of clinic staff were completed to explore strengths and weaknesses of program implementation. Results: Forty patients with uncontrolled hypertension were enrolled in the pilot, and 27.5% gained blood pressure control by 9 months after enrollment ( P < .001). The average systolic blood pressure decreased by 16 mm Hg from 156.5 to 140.5 mm Hg ( P < .001), and the average diastolic blood pressure decreased by 3.8 mm Hg from 85 to 81.2 mm Hg ( P = .03). Staff interviews were generally positive; however, several areas for improvement were identified. Conclusion: Panel management for hypertension can be effective and can be implemented in a low-income, urban, primary care clinic setting given appropriate staffing allocation.