bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diurnal Variation in Grip Strength and Hand Dexterity in Healthy Adults
Authors: Patel Anjali , Adams Jo , Davey Chris
Published: July 2017

Handgrip and dexterity are integral to hand function and both are used to assess functional status in clinical practice. Many studies have examined the daily fluctuation in handgrip strength with differing conclusions, but none to date have looked at variation in dexterity. This study recruited 30 healthy volunteers and measured their handgrip strength and dexterity using the Nine Hole Peg Test at three-hourly intervals between 9.00am and 4.00pm, over one day. There were statistically significant differences in hand dexterity over the day but not in handgrip strength. Although a possible learning effect from practising a task-specific dexterity assessment such as the Nine Hole Peg Test may explain these findings, the difference was inconsistent and differed between the dominant and non-dominant hand. This study highlights the need for parallel forms of testing hand function to help control for any learning effects and also for therapists to be as constant as possible in the time of day when using functional hand assessments.
Self-Reported Hand Functional Ability measured by the DASH in Individuals with Early Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Adams Jo , Burridge J , Mullee M , Hammond Alison , Cooper Cyrus
Published: July 2017

Self-report accounts of functional ability are important for clinicians to gain insight into individuals’ perspectives of the personal impact of injury or disease. This short report describes a study of self-report upper limb ability using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire in a sample of people with early rheumatoid arthritis. The DASH is a reliable and valid tool for use within rheumatology.

The most difficult upper limb tasks to complete were reported to be activities that required sustained force and power, followed by tasks that required fine finger movements and prehension tasks. The DASH questionnaire proved to be an outcome measure that discriminated well between different levels of reported functional upper limb ability; it was reported to be easy to complete by patients, and was straightforward and quick to score. The compact summary score makes it a useful clinical and research tool and one that can be recommended in an early rheumatoid arthritis population.
Scar Management in Hand Therapy – is our Practice Evidence Based?
Authors: Jones Laura
Published: July 2017

Hand therapists use a range of interventions for the management of scars in order to maintain tissue mobility and joint motion for effective hand function. This is well supported within the literature, however it is also suggested that there is a poor evidence base for the treatments that are so widely accepted by clinicians. A review of the recent literature and research findings was conducted in an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of the modalities being used.

Research in support of some of the techniques utilised within scar management programmes is limited, with anecdotal evidence and clinical experience continuing to prevail in the choice of treatment. Clinicians need a more credible evidence base to support their interventions and further large-scale research is required.
A Delphi Study of the Role Parameters and Requirements of Extended Scope Practice in Hand Therapy
Authors: Ellis Bridget , Kersten Paula , Sibley Andrew
Published: July 2017

Physiotherapists and occupational therapists working within hand therapy in the United Kingdom are undertaking roles working beyond their normal professional boundaries. The aim of this study was to reach consensus on the role parameters and required knowledge, training and competencies desirable for such extended roles. A panel of 21 expert stakeholders comprising hand therapy clinicians, educators, doctors, existing extended scope practitioners and a representative from a patient group participated in three survey rounds using the Delphi technique. They examined three groups of parameters with reference to the competencies, knowledge and activities desirable for such extended roles. A prioritised list of parameters was developed. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Response rates for each round were consistently 95% or greater. The results showed areas of clear consensus, with prioritisation supporting the development of an independent practitioner working without direct supervision by a medical practitioner. Specific criteria were identified for such practice with regards to knowledge, training and activities, such as the ability to order, understand and interpret clinical investigations. In-house formal training tailored to individual service needs was the favoured approach. The results of this study can inform the development of a national strategy for the implementation of new ways of working while ensuring the provision of a quality health service.
The Rise and Fall of RSI: Competing Models of Causation and the Current Debate
Authors: Grimshaw Meirion
Published: July 2017

The existence of repetitive strain injury (RSI) as a diagnosis has been historically controversial. Its nature has been explained through competing models of causation generated by different professions. By exploring medical, ergonomic, psycho-social and legal explanations, this paper seeks to inform hand therapists on the basic aspects of this debate and the current thinking on RSI.
The Use of Splinting in the Non-Surgical Treatment of De Quervain's Disease: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Coldham Fiona
Published: July 2017

Background

The application of splinting in the treatment of de Quervain's disease is widespread. However, given its cost and the potential limitation to daily activities, clinicians must be confident of splinting's efficacy before utilising it.

Objectives

To determine whether there is any clinical evidence to support the use of splinting in the non-surgical treatment of de Quervain's disease. Search Strategy: A search was conducted using the Cochrane clinical trials register (November 2004 of The Cochrane Library), Medline, CINAHL and EMBASE databases.

Selection Criteria

Due to the paucity of available literature, all studies investigating the use of splinting for de Quervain's disease were included in this review (both randomized and non-randomized). This included studies comparing the use of splinting with other treatments such as corticosteroid injections.

Data collection and analysis

All trials judged as fitting the selection criteria by the reviewer, were assessed for methodological quality. The trials were grouped into four categories that related to the type of treatment.

Main results

In all, there were five studies, involving a total of 524 symptomatic wrists from 494 patients that all met the inclusion criteria. Comprehensive details of the individual studies are presented in the review and in tabular form.

Reviewer's conclusions

There are many treatment options available to treat de Quervain's disease, including splintage for various lengths of time and in different positions; steroid injections with or without splintage; local electrotherapy and massage and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In this review, splinting has performed poorly in comparison to steroid injections, especially in those patients with more severe symptoms.
Grip Strength and Dexterity: A Study of Variance between Right- and Left-Handed Healthy Individuals
Authors: Hodges Lucy , Adams Jo
Published: July 2017

Several studies have investigated grip strength between dominant and non-dominant hands. However, few studies have investigated dominance specific differences and considered dexterity.

This observational study investigated the differences in grip strength and dexterity of the dominant and non-dominant hands using a sample of 18 right- and 12 left-handed healthy individuals, and compared findings within and between these groups.

The Jamar® grip dynamometer and the Purdue Pegboard Test were used to measure grip strength and dexterity. Right-handed individuals demonstrated significant differences in grip strength and dexterity between the dominant and non-dominant hands (p=0.03 and p<0.01, respectively), while left-handed individuals did not (p=0.45 and p=0.29, respectively).

Between-group comparisons found that left-handed individuals were significantly more dexterous with their non-dominant hand compared with the right-handed group. Hand dominance appears to have a considerable effect on hand function and should therefore inform clinicians’ use and interpretation of functional hand assessments when testing right- and left-hand dominant patients.
An Audit Of The Training Needs For Therapists Providing Rehabilitation For Patients With Self-Inflicted Hand And Forearm Injuries
Authors: Glassey Nicole
Published: July 2017

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists from the Nottingham Hand Therapy Group identified a perceived lack of training and confidence in treating patients who had self-inflicted hand and forearm injuries. In an effort to evaluate whether this is a region-wide problem, and to determine if training was available in the local area, an audit was conducted. A postal questionnaire was used to identify the training needs that hand therapists within the Trent region have, with respect to the treatment of patients with self-inflicted hand and forearm injuries. Forty-five questionnaires were sent out, of which 23 (51%) were returned. Results highlight a lack of training for therapists who treat patients that self-harm and that therapists felt they required further education to enhance their knowledge and skills. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for training to treat patients who self-harm are not being met. Therapists also stated they felt uncomfortable when discussing the mechanism of injury with their patient, but noted that they have support mechanisms within their departments to deal with the consequences that caring for these patients has on themselves.
Static Progressive Splints Using Releasable Cable Ties
Authors: Bexon Carole
Published: July 2017

This clinical technique describes the use of releasable cable ties to provide easily adjustable force, as part of the inelastic component of static progressive splints. Full consent has been gained by all the patients illustrated in this clinical discussion.
Patients’ Concerns With The Journey Through Flexor Tendon Rehabilitation – A Prospective Patient-Centred Satisfaction Survey
Authors: A Branford Olivier , L Pratt Anna , Burr Nikki , Grobbelaar Adriaan
Published: July 2017

Flexor tendon rehabilitation is an involved and protracted process during which everyday activities are difficult. The aim of this study was to conduct a patient-centred satisfaction assessment, tailored to hand therapy patients undergoing flexor rehabilitation, to gain an understanding of their experience, and to identify potential areas for improving the quality of their care.

A prospective questionnaire survey, incorporating elements of generic patient-centred and upper limb outcome measures, was completed, over a six month period, by consenting hand therapy patients during their rehabilitation at three, seven and 12 weeks post-flexor-tendon surgery.

Forty-three subjects fitted the inclusion criteria for the study. Thirty-two subjects (74%) gave informed written consent and were recruited to this study. Two thirds (12 out of 18) of males and all females had difficulties with everyday activities at seven weeks. More females (7 out of 8 [88%]) than males (11 out of 18 [61%]) responded that life was not in their control. Five out of eight females and six out of 14 males reported feeling concerned about their hand at 12 weeks. Interestingly, approximately 40% of respondents wanted more information throughout rehabilitation, with half of females requesting more at seven and 12 weeks.

This study suggests that there should be a strong therapist-led emphasis on providing verbal and written information throughout flexor rehabilitation to increase knowledge and reduce associated anxiety. The importance of this in improving patients’ experience of the process cannot be overestimated.
Audit of a Therapist-led Clinic for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Primary Care
Authors: A Storey Philip , Dipcot Helen Dear , J Bradley Mary , Couchman Louise , D Burke Frank
Published: July 2017

An audit was designed to evaluate the effect on waiting times, did not attend (DNA) rates and quality of clinical management of a hand therapist-led clinic for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) in Primary Care, and to investigate whether the clinic acted as an effective threshold mechanism for the Pulvertaft Hand Centre consultant clinics.

Following a period of training with a senior consultant at the Pulvertaft Centre, an experienced hand therapist from the Centre worked out in Primary Care seeing patients with a provisional diagnosis of CTS who had been referred directly from General Practitioners (GPs). The referrals were assisted by the use of a local referral protocol. Tinel's and Phalen's tests were performed and areas of sensory loss were documented. A Levine Questionnaire was completed by the patient at an initial appointment and subsequently at review four to eight weeks later. Grip and pinch measurements were taken using a Jamar® Dynamometer. Mild and moderate CTS can be effectively managed by a community-based Hand Therapy Clinic. Forty five percent of GP-referred CTS patients were successfully managed without referral onto the Hand Centre and did not require further treatment for CTS in the subsequent two years. The consultation length was 30 minutes per patient at the therapist-led clinic, compared with 15 minutes at the Hand Centre. Waiting times were reduced from 90 to 20 days, and the clinic had a low (3%) DNA rate. Wrist splints were expertly chosen and fitted and patients were educated and empowered about their condition. The Hand Therapy Clinic acted as a useful threshold mechanism for Tertiary Care Hand Centre CTS referrals, removing 46% of CTS referrals from the Hand Centre clinics. The proportion of Hand Clinic-referred patients requiring carpal tunnel decompression (CTD) was therefore increased to 62% from 33%. This community-based, hand therapist-led clinic for CTS management is consistent with current Health Service initiatives.
Novice Superintendent Perceptions of Preparation Adequacy and Problems of Practice
Authors: Petersen George J. , Fusarelli Lance D. , Kowalski Theodore J.
Published: July 2017

This article reports the results of a survey of novice superintendents in California, Missouri, North Carolina, and Ohio. The research provides a profile of novice superintendents and their opinions regarding the adequacy of academic preparation and the problems they encountered after entering this challenging position. Findings indicate that the novices were typical demographically of all superintendents, and generally, they were satisfied with their academic preparation. However, they were highly focused on managerial problems, an outcome likely explained by nature of their employing districts. The typical novice was employed in a district that (a) was rural (b) enrolled less than 1,000 students, and (c) was below average in taxable wealth. Findings and conclusions provide insights for improving academic preparation and for considering changes to state policy that could affect qualifications for this challenging position.
Creating Social Justice in Early Childhood Education: A Case Study in Equity and Context
Authors: Christman Dana E.
Published: July 2017

This case study presents a picture of an Early Childhood Education program at a large, research university located in the southwestern United States. This program was selected as it is known for its dedication to social justice issues. The study examines how such issues are purposefully woven into the program and cast against a framework for preparing socially-just pre-service educational administrators. This framework is made up of four essential components: (a) selection of students, (b) critical consciousness in teaching and learning, (c) proactive systems of support and inclusive structures, and (d) induction/praxis. Introduced as well is the context for the program at the university. Findings indicate that the program should (a) carefully examine whether students have a predisposition towards social justice before they actually enter the program, (b) create a critical consciousness involves introducing students to the language of critique and the language of possibility, (c) intentionally hire faculty who are committed to social justice is essential, and (d) purposefully structure the program so that students are exposed to a very broad concept of community. Although pockets of resistance were uncovered in both the larger department and the college in which the program resides, the program itself remains solidly committed to social justice. Staying connected to scholarship, to the children, to context, and to social justice remains essential to the goals of this program, and recognizing the program's areas for improvement is vital to the language of critique that the program uses. Recommendations include: (a) regularly revisiting social justice issues as they exist and emerge, (b) investigating the induction and praxis of new teachers, and (c) mentoring new graduates so that the experience is meaningful and infused with social justice.
A Cross-Case Analysis of Three Social Justice-Oriented Education Programs
Authors: Rodríguez Mariela A. , Chambers Terah Venzant , González María Luisa , Scheurich James Joseph
Published: July 2017

This cross-case analysis was based on three main questions that addressed three social justice-oriented education programs. The three questions were: 1) What critical elements underlie programs that prepare professionals for social justice? 2) What can we learn from these programs in support of educational-leadership programs whose aim is to prepare leaders for social justice? and, 3) What types of resistance have these programs perhaps faced in their preparation of leaders and educators for social justice? Each pair of authors analyzed the cases. Then we developed a “meta-consensus table” that combined all three cases for each of the three questions listed above. We then sorted the categories into themes within each meta-consensus table. Each theme was presented within the discussion of each of the three aforementioned questions. This was followed by a general discussion of the results. First, it was evident that program faculty played a key role in program development and implementation. Second, it is vital that social justice serves as the focus for all courses within a preparation program, rather than just select courses. Third, the variety of program structure across the three cases demonstrates the need for continued conversations about the most effective delivery method for individual programs and the students that they serve. Fourth, the importance of student recruitment to the program was an important component that sought to extend the existing social justice orientation of potential program candidates. The last section described resistances that were faced within the three cases. Forms of resistance came from students, faculty, and university administrators. We concluded the cross-case analysis by offering recommendations to overcome the resistances, and to encourage administrator preparation programs to place social justice at the core of student recruitment, program development, and program delivery.
Replacing a phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitor with riociguat in patients with connective tissue disease‐associated pulmonary arterial hypertension: a case series
Authors: Raina Amresh , Benza Raymond L. , Farber Harrison W.
Published: July 2017

Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension associated with connective tissue disease (PAH‐PAH‐CTD) such as systemic sclerosis (SSc) have a poorer response to treatment and increased mortality compared with patients with idiopathic PAH. Current treatment options for PAH‐CTD include prostanoids, phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitors (PDE‐5i), endothelin receptor antagonists, and the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator riociguat. In this case series, we describe three patients with PAH‐CTD related to limited scleroderma who were switched from a PDE‐5i to riociguat due to insufficient clinical response. The switch to riociguat was associated with an improvement in respiratory and hemodynamic parameters and a favorable tolerability profile. These cases demonstrate that switching to riociguat is a therapeutic option in patients with PAH‐CTD who have not achieved a satisfactory clinical response to a PDE‐5i.
Novel mechanisms of PIEZO1 dysfunction in hereditary xerocytosis
Authors: Glogowska Edyta , Schneider Eve R. , Maksimova Yelena , Schulz Vincent P. , Lezon-Geyda Kimberly , Wu John , Radhakrishnan Kottayam , Keel Siobán B. , Mahoney Donald , Freidmann Alison M. , Altura Rachel A. , Gracheva Elena O. , Bagriantsev Sviatoslav N. , Kalfa Theodosia A. , Gallagher Patrick G.
Published: July 2017

Key Points

There is heterogeneity in the clinical, laboratory, and genetic bases of HX. Alterations in PIEZO1 channel kinetics, response to osmotic stress, and membrane trafficking may contribute to channel dysfunction in HX.
Proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles from a Plasmodium falciparum Kenyan clinical isolate defines a core parasite secretome
Authors: Abdi Abdirahman , Yu Lu , Goulding David , Rono Martin K. , Bejon Philip , Choudhary Jyoti , Rayner Julian
Published: July 2017

Background: Many pathogens secrete effector molecules to subvert host immune responses, to acquire nutrients, and/or to prepare host cells for invasion. One of the ways that effector molecules are secreted is through extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as exosomes. Recently, the malaria parasite P. falciparum has been shown to produce EVs that can mediate transfer of genetic material between parasites and induce sexual commitment. Characterizing the content of these vesicles may improve our understanding of P. falciparum pathogenesis and virulence.

Methods: Previous studies of P. falciparum EVs have been limited to long-term adapted laboratory isolates. In this study, we isolated EVs from a Kenyan P. falciparum clinical isolate adapted to in vitro culture for a short period and characterized their protein content by mass spectrometry (data are available via ProteomeXchange, with identifier PXD006925).

Results: We show that P. falciparum extracellular vesicles (PfEVs) are enriched in proteins found within the exomembrane compartments of infected erythrocytes such as Maurer’s clefts (MCs), as well as the secretory endomembrane compartments in the apical end of the merozoites, suggesting that these proteins play a role in parasite-host interactions. Comparison of this novel clinically relevant dataset with previously published datasets helps to define a core secretome present in Plasmodium EVs.

Conclusions: P. falciparum extracellular vesicles contain virulence-associated parasite proteins. Therefore, analysis of PfEVs contents from a range of clinical isolates, and their functional validation may improve our understanding of the virulence mechanisms of the parasite, and potentially identify targets for interventions or diagnostics.
Glitz and glamour: a care home cabaret experience
Authors: Mendes Aysha
Published: July 2017

Last month, we discussed how bringing the circus to the care home offered a wide range of benefits to the residents who live there. In this article, Aysha Mendes reports on a similar project where part of a home was transformed into the residents' cabaret party room
How care home management can make the most of their MP
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: July 2017

There are many reasons why a care home manager may want to talk to their MP, from budget concerns to lobbying for an amendment to a bill going through parliament. In this article, Adam Bernstein explains how to go about contacting a home's local MP
Dementia is a disease and diseases can be treated
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: July 2017

Public understanding of dementia is low—many people consider it an inevitable part of ageing. In this article, Helena Frankova explains why we need to raise understanding of the fact that dementia as a disease, and what this means for treatment in the future
How to … assist older people in enjoying the warmer weather
Authors: Ashurst Adrian
Published: July 2017

The warmer weather offers a great opportunity to get out and live life to the full, but comes with a number of considerations when caring for older people. In this article, Adrian Ashurst highlights how staff can help residents make the most of the summer months
Reliability of patellar height indices in children with cerebral palsy and spina bifida
Authors: Rethlefsen S. A. , Barrett K. K. , Wren T. A. L. , Blumstein G. , Gargiulo D. , Ryan D. D. , Kay R. M.
Published: July 2017

Background

The Koshino (KI) and Caton-Deschamps (CDI) indices are used to measure patellar height in children, with the CDI showing excellent reliability in typically developing (TD) children. Reliability of such measures in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and spina bifida (SB) is unknown.

Methods

Lateral knee radiographs were reviewed retrospectively for children with TD (n = 49), CP (n = 48) and SB (n = 42). Five raters took measurements from radiographs twice, at least two weeks apart. Measurements included the CDI, Insall-Salvati Index (ISI) and KI. Systematic variability (bias) and random variability were examined using repeated measures ANOVA, 95% limits of agreement (LOA) and coefficients of variation (CV).

Results

Mean values of all three indices differed among raters (p < 0.0001). A significant difference was seen between the first and second measurements for CDI and KI indicating a learning effect. LOA ranges were large for the CDI (intra-rater: 0.37-0.95, inter-rater: 0.60-1.04) and ISI (intra-rater: 0.25-0.49, inter-rater: 0.51-0.57) for all patient groups. The KI showed a clinically acceptable range for TD participants (intra-rater: 0.14-0.16, inter-rater: 0.11-0.14) with larger ranges for CP (intra-rater: 0.26-0.33, inter-rater 0.0.2-0.35) and SB patients (intra-rater: 0.23-0.27, inter-rater: 0.19-0.25). CVs were lowest (best) for KI (3.8% to 7.4%) and highest (worst) for CDI (14.7% to 23.1%) for all three groups. Results were similar for patients with both open and closed physes.

Conclusions

The KI is the most reliable patellar height measure for paediatric patients with TD, CP and SB, with either open or closed physes. The KI is more complex and experience may be important for valid, reliable measurement.
Tibial derotational osteotomies in two neuromuscular populations: Comparing cerebral palsy with myelomeningocele
Authors: Thompson R. M. , Ihnow S. , Dias L. , Swaroop V.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To review the outcomes of tibial derotational osteotomies (TDOs) as a function of complication and revision surgery rates comparing a cohort of children with myelodysplasia to a cohort with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

A chart review was completed on TDOs performed in a tertiary referral centre on patients with myelodysplasia or CP between 1985 and 2013 in patients aged > 5 years with > 2 years follow-up. Charts were reviewed for demographics, direction/degree of derotation, complications and need for re-derotation. Two-sample T-tests were used to compare the characteristics of the two groups. Two-tailed chi-square tests were used to compare complications. Generalised linear logit models were used to identify independent risk factors for complication and re-rotation.

Results

The 153 patients (217 limbs) were included. Average follow-up was 7.83 years. Overall complication incidence was 10.14%, including removal of hardware for any reason, with a 4.61% major complication incidence (fracture, deep infection, hardware failure). After adjusting for gender and age, the risk of complication was not statistically significantly different between groups (p = 0.42) nor was requiring re-derotation (p = 0.09). The probability of requiring re-derotation was 31.9% less likely per year increase in age at index surgery (p = 0.005).

Conclusion

With meticulous operative technique, TDO in children with neuromuscular disorders is a safe and effective treatment for tibial torsion, with an acceptable overall and major complication rate. The risk of re-operation decreases significantly in both groups with increasing age. The association between age at initial surgery and need for re-derotation should help guide the treatment of children with tibial torsion.
Strength and Rigidity Performance of Laminated Members Using Small-Diameter Logs
Authors: Ha Been , Jang Sang Sik , Ogawa Keita , Yamasaki Mariko , Sasaki Yasutoshi
Published: July 2017

Korea and other countries have a high ratio of small-diameter logs in the harvested log volume. Hence, using these small-diameter logs as structural materials is an important issue. The lumber obtained from small-diameter logs generally has small cross-section dimensions and is mostly juvenile wood, resulting in inferior strength performance. In this research, a laminating process was developed for effective utilization of small-diameter logs as structural materials, and eight types of laminated beams and eight types of laminated columns were manufactured by the vertical and horizontal laminations with square cross-section timber. The laminated members were composed of laminated square timber obtained from small-diameter logs and were reinforced by square timber or lamina obtained from large-diameter logs. The laminated members were evaluated for their bending and axial compression performance. As a result, the beam exhibited an increase in bending Young's modulus of 63 percent and bending strength of 77 percent. Additionally, the column's axial compression performance indicated a positive effect on compression Young's modulus, where a 158 percent increase was found. Furthermore, when Johnson's equation was used to determine the critical stress, the value was close to the yield stress. In contrast, Euler's equation led to overestimation of the capacity as the slenderness ratio became smaller, which indicated that the application of Johnson's equation may be preferable. Therefore, a combination of small-diameter logs and large-diameter logs provided increased strength and rigidity performance, indicating the possibility of an effective use of small-diameter logs.
New Jersey and the Great War: Part I
Authors: Connors Richard J.
Published: July 2017

As April 2017 marked the 100th anniversary of America’s entry into World War I, this edition of NJS has several related offerings. These include this special feature, an adapted version of the first half of Dr. Richard J. Connors’ new book, New Jersey and the Great War (Dorrance, 2017). We will publish the second half in our Winter 2018 issue. Those who can’t wait, or who want to see the unedited text (to include endnotes, illustrations, and tables) can always purchase the book online! We are most grateful to Dr. Connors for allowing us to share his insightful and comprehensive work in this way, and hope you will help us ensure the widest possible dissemination by sharing the very timely piece with your colleagues, students, family, and friends.
The Implications of Offering Free Versions for the Performance of Paid Mobile Apps
Authors: Arora Sandeep , ter Hofstede Frenkel , Mahajan Vijay
Published: July 2017

The mobile application (app) industry has grown tremendously over the past ten years, primarily fueled by small app development businesses. Lacking advertising budgets, these small and relatively unknown businesses often offer free versions of their paid apps to be noticed in the crowded app industry and to reduce customer uncertainty about app quality and fit. The authors build on the existing marketing and information systems literature on sampling and versioning to investigate the implications of offering free versions for the adoption speed of paid apps. Using a unique data set of 7.7 million observations from 12,315 paid apps, and accounting for endogeneity, the authors find that although the practice of offering free versions of paid apps is popular, it is negatively associated with paid app adoption speed. They also find that this negative association between free version presence and paid app adoption speed is stronger both for hedonic apps and in the later life stages of paid apps. The authors hope that the study's results will encourage app developers to reevaluate their current strategy of offering free versions of paid apps and prompt academics to produce more work focusing on this industry.
The Benefit of Becoming Friends: Complaining after Service Failures Leads Customers with Strong Ties to Increase Loyalty
Authors: Umashankar Nita , Ward Morgan K. , Dahl Darren W.
Published: July 2017

Service firms spend considerable resources soliciting complaints to initiate recovery efforts and improve their offerings. However, managers may be overlooking the fact that complaints serve an equally important role in engendering loyalty. The authors demonstrate that the strength of social ties between customers and service providers influences the degree to which complaining drives loyalty. Paradoxically, while strongly tied customers fear that complaining threatens their ties with the provider, when they are encouraged to complain, their loyalty increases because offering feedback serves as an effective way to preserve social ties. Conversely, for weakly tied customers, complaining has no effect on loyalty. Furthermore, complaints are more effective in driving loyalty for strongly tied customers when the feedback is directed toward the provider who failed, rather than to an entity external to the failure. Finally, when providers signal an authentic openness to feedback, strongly tied customers are more loyal after complaining, whereas authenticity does little to engender loyalty for weakly tied customers who complain. The value of complaints in driving loyalty is promising both for customers who perceive a strong tie to a particular provider within the firm and, more generally, in service industries wherein strong ties naturally occur.
Getting Consumers to Recycle NOW! When and Why Cuteness Appeals Influence Prosocial and Sustainable Behavior
Authors: Wang Tingting , Mukhopadhyay Anirban , Patrick Vanessa M.
Published: July 2017

Policy makers and social agencies need novel insights to manage the major global challenge of encouraging prosocial and sustainable behaviors. This research identifies a positive aesthetic cue, “ Kindchenschema cuteness,” that can reliably induce some people—specifically, those who exhibit high approach motivational orientation (per the behavioral approach system [BAS]; Carver and White 1994 )—to engage in prosocial and conservation behaviors. Studies 1 and 2 show that consumers high (vs. low) in BAS (measured) react more favorably to conservation appeals featuring cuteness, an effect mediated by experienced feelings of tenderness. Study 3 replicates the effect using a prime of approach motivation (BAS) to assess donation intentions. Study 4, a large-scale field experiment conducted over eight weeks at multiple locations, shows that people recycle more at bins featuring cute visuals with active (high-BAS) messages compared with bins featuring cute visuals with passive (low-BAS) messages. The authors conclude with a discussion of practical implications for policy makers.
Care Issues of the Patient after a Stroke — Case Report
Authors: Antczak Anna , Filipska Karolina , Raszka Anna
Published: July 2017

Introduction. With the advancement of civilization, the number of cerebral strokes in creases, which is a challenge for modern medicine. Reduction of patients’, capacity is reflected in all aspects of a patient’s life. The condition after stroke requires assistance in basic daily activities (washing, dressing, eating, moving, etc.). Family must accept the fact of existing limitations and the need to acquire the knowledge and skills required to cope with a patient immobilized after a stroke. The aim of the study is to identify selected deficits and problems of patients after stroke.Case Report. The case study refers to a 82-year old patient with a stroke. The patient’s condition is defined as average, requiring hospitalization and constant monitoring. The work presents selected problems observed in a patient after a stroke. The patient presented is only a work description of the case of a theoretical patient.Discussion. Condition after stroke is a significant burden for the patients and their families. Problems concern the biological, mental and social spheres. Assistance to the patient and their family should commence when the patient is admitted to hospital and after a stroke has been diagnosed. The patient’s care problems after stroke constitute significant limitations in functioning and in returning to previous conditions. Researchers largely analyze the quality of life in all aforementioned dimensions.Conclusions. Nursing care issues include physical, mental as well as social aspect. The patient in her current state of health requires 24-hour care and full compensation for basic daily activities. Once the patient has been discharged home, she will require further treatment and personalized and comprehensive care. (JNNN 2017;6(1):28–32)
Stan odżywienia pacjentów Neurochirurgicznego Oddziału Intensywnej Opieki Medycznej
Authors: Kaya Hatice , Turan Nuray , Özdemir Aydın Gülsün
Published: July 2017

Neurosurgical patients present important metabolic alterations that trigger increased energy and protein expenditure. The clinical condition in neuro patients associated with the use of sedatives, steroids, barbiturates and muscle-relaxing drugs postpones the use of nutrients in these patients and, thus, complications, including infection and longer hospitalization, may occur. Weight loss, negative nitrogen balance and immune dysfunction constitute a characteristic response in neurosurgical patients. There is a strong relationship between adequate nutritional status and recovery from critical illness. Improved nutritional status is associated with positive clinical outcomes. The health care team, nurses in particular, play a major role in the management and maintenance of an optimal nutritional status in patients who are in the neurosurgical clinic. This compilation aims at highlighting the fact that inadequate nutrition is a serious problem which increases incidence of morbidity and mortality especially in neurosurgical patients. The article also emphasises the importance of nursing assessment. (JNNN 2017;6(1):33–38)
Herramienta coaching como factor motivacional en la implementación de la NTC ISO 9001:2008 en el área de biblioteca de la Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS)
Authors: Rodríguez Ramírez Luz Andrea , Lombana Motta Aura Carolina
Published: July 2017

El mercado globalizado aumenta la exigencia para las organizaciones y estas deben cambiar para adaptarse al entorno; los cambios que requiere la organización, entendida como un sistema social, enfrentan la resistencia normal de las personas a cambiar sus hábitos y costumbres, para no salir de su zona de comodidad. Este artículo reseña la experiencia de implementación del sistema de gestión de la calidad NTC ISO 9001:2008 en la Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS), durante la cual se encontró reticencia por parte de las personas participantes. En el desarrollo de la investigación se presentaron herramientas para minimizar los factores que producen la resistencia al cambio y para facilitar la implementación de las prácticas, principios, estrategias y tecnologías de la gestión de la calidad, con base en la metodología coaching. Los resultados destacan la utilidad de esta metodología para que las personas involucradas potencialicen sus capacidades y reorienten su trabajo en torno a los objetivos que se desean alcanzar y entiendan al sistema de gestión no como una carga adicional sino como un instrumento que facilita la consecución de los objetivos organizacionales.
Evaluación de prácticas de desmonte selectivo y clausuras temporales en sistemas degradados del Chaco árido (Argentina)
Authors: Coirini Rubén , Karlin Marcos , Llaya Gabriela , Sánchez Sofía , Contreras Ana , Zapata Ricardo
Published: July 2017

Los sistemas agro-silvopastoriles cumplen una función agroecológica muy importante en el mundo, especialmente en áreas marginales. En este trabajo se evaluaron dos tratamientos silvopastoriles en cuatro campos de Chancaní y Los Medanitos, Dpto. Pocho, Córdoba (Argentina), aplicando desmonte selectivo manual de especies arbustivas y clausuras (CD), comparados con sitios aledaños no desmontados y clausurados (CSD) y testigos (T). Se evaluó tipo y cantidad de biomasa forrajera, renovales y árboles a fin de definir la línea de base. Se muestreó suelo (0-15 cm) y se determinó carbono orgánico (Corg), nitrógeno total (Nt), relación C/N y nitrógeno de nitratos (N-NO3). Se aplicó un diseño de parcelas divididas y con los datos obtenidos se realizaron análisis de varianza para comparar tratamientos. Los resultados (tres años de evaluación) muestran valores más elevados de productividad forrajera en CD respecto a CSD y T. El efecto de las clausuras se evidencia también en el cambio de especies indicadoras de condición y aumento en la regeneración. En CD y CSD se evidencian cambios en la calidad de los pastizales, al aumentar la proporción de especies deseables respecto a las intermedias e indeseables; además el porcentaje de suelo desnudo se redujo respecto a T. La regeneración forestal aumentó en los sitios desmontados (CD), en relación con CSD+T. Las variables analizadas Corg, Nt y C/N no muestran variaciones importantes según tratamiento y año. Se aprecia en los sitios CD un aumento (aunque no significativo) en los valores de N-NO3 en el suelo hacia el segundo año de realizado el desmonte.
Revisión de métodos para el monitoreo de biomasa y carbono vegetal en ecosistemas forestales tropicales
Authors: Fonseca William
Published: July 2017

La cuantificación de la biomasa vegetal es clave para conocer el carbono almacenado por los ecosistemas forestales y, por ende, la capacidad de mitigación del cambio climático. Existen variedad de métodos para estimar la biomasa, muchos de ellos con pequeñas variaciones, por ejemplo, el tamaño y forma de las unidades de muestreo, la inclusión o no de algún componente del reservorio (hojas, ramas, raíces, necromasa), diámetro mínimo inventariado, entre otras. El objetivo del manuscrito es explicar los aspectos más importantes a considerar en el inventario de remociones, a partir del diseño de inventario (diseño estadístico, tamaño y forma de las unidades de muestreo, componentes de la biomasa a evaluar).  En un segundo punto se trata el tema de la determinación de la biomasa aérea y de raíces, haciendo referencia al método directo o destructivo y a los métodos indirectos, en especial al uso de modelos matemáticos por su fácil aplicación y bajo costo; además se anotan algunos modelos para bosque natural y plantaciones. También se hace referencia al estudio de carbono en suelos, a los factores de expansión de biomasa y a cómo determinar el carbono en la biomasa. Se espera que estas notas faciliten la comprensión del tema y que sean de referencia para el establecimiento de esquemas de monitoreo, reporte y verificación.
O MUNICÍPIO E O PLANEJAMENTO DO TERRITÓRIO RURAL NO BRASIL
Authors: Pires de Mesquita Amanda , Rodrigues Ferreira William
Published: July 2017

Este artículo, busca comprender como en los documentos de planificación municipal abordan las áreas rurales, en especial después de la aprobación de la Ley del Estatuto de la Ciudad (Lei nº 10.257 de 2001). Para realizar este estudio, se utilizó de documentos oficiales, autores y teorías que tratan sobre la planificación territorial municipal y rural, a partir de eso, se observó que las áreas rurales, mismo estando con la obligatoriedad de estar inserida en los planos directores municipales, después del estatuto de la ciudad, las áreas rurales son retractadas en la mayoría de las ocasiones como espacios naturales o de producción agrícola, que solo sirven para suplir las ciudades y no así como espacios de vida. Para contemplar en la planeación municipal los pobladores que viven en las áreas rurales, es necesario de comprender el significado de lo que es rural, sus múltiples funciones y características, así el plano director como principal herramienta de ordenamiento territorial, debería ser el mayor contribuyente para mejorar la calidad de vida de la población de estas áreas en los municipios, por el motivo de tener una visión más contemplada de su entorno.
La guerra global contra el terrorismo y el fin de Centroamérica
Authors: Herrera-Rodríguez Omar Santiago
Published: July 2017

Con la declaración de la Guerra Global contra el Terrorismo en el 2002, el gobierno estadounidense cambió su estrategia de intervención política, económica y militar hacia el resto del mundo y, particularmente, hacia Centroamérica, modificando en consecuencia la conformación espacial de la región. Analizo en este ensayo, las principales políticas desarrolladas por el gobierno estadounidense hacia la región centroamericana en la década de los ochentas y noventas, las cuales generan una plataforma de preparación para esta guerra, con el fin de demostrar 1) cómo la Guerra Global contra el Terrorismo responde a la necesidad del capitalismo de contener los estallidos de crisis económicas cada vez más prolongadas, mediante la guerra total y la constitución de un enemigo total: el terrorismo y 2) cómo Mesoamérica es construida como respuesta de los intereses geopolíticos y económicos estadounidenses actuales.
Construcción de las identidades latinoamericanas. Una aproximación desde el entorno sonoro
Authors: Rodríguez-Varela Francisco
Published: July 2017

Este acercamiento pretende problematizar la dimensión sonora como uno de los elementos estructurantes de las identidades, tanto individuales como colectivos, en un contexto determinado, permitiendo así, establecer un puente epistémico entre las estructuras hegemónicas propias del colonialismo y su intrínseca relación con el paisaje sonoro latinoamericano. Se busca visibilizar cómo han perdurado y mutado en la actualidad las tendencias de pensamiento colonialistas, prestando especial importancia al sonido como una unidad de análisis que necesariamente acompaña a dichas estructuras de pensamiento en cada una de las dimensiones en las que se desenvuelve el ser humano: económicas, políticas, culturales, artísticas, tecnológicas, recreativas, entre otras.
O diário de Carolina Maria de Jesus. Uma brasileira marginalizada
Authors: Simon da Silva Regina , Araujo da Fé David Raphael
Published: July 2017

Neste texto, analisamos o livro Quarto de despejo: diário de uma favelada (2015), publicado nos anos sessenta, pela então desconhecida Carolina Maria de Jesus. Escrito sob o formato de diário, Carolina retrata a visão interna de uma nova realidade que consternaria a população brasileira até os dias atuais: a favela. Em seus escritos, a autora trouxe consigo uma série de estigmas que marcaram, pejorativamente, o seu registro: era mulher, negra, pobre e semianalfabeta. Por isso, suas obras dividem opiniões acerca do seu valor literário. Este artigo objetiva analisar seu primeiro livro, evocando aspectos autobiográficos e memorialísticos em relação ao seu tempo e espaço.
En Guatemala nos quitaron el derecho a la vida, pero también el derecho a la muerte. Cuarenta y cinco mil personas detenidas-desaparecidas por el Estado de terror.
Authors: Fuentes-Rosales Alberto
Published: July 2017

Se presenta un análisis del sistemático terror de estado ejercido por Guatemala en su población, mediante secuestro, desaparición-detención forzada y los procesos que lleva adelante el Archivo Histórico de dicho país en la exhumación, identificación y denuncia de estos hechos genocidas.
Editorial
Authors: Pacheco-Romero José
Published: July 2017

Editorial