bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Withdrawal of Neuroleptic Medications from Institutionalized Dementia Patients: Results of a Double-Blind, Baseline-Treatment—Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Bridges-Parlet Sarah , Knopman David , Steffes Susan
Published: March 2014

Among dementia patients in long-term care facilities, neuroleptics (NL) are frequently prescribed for the treatment of agitation. Although good clinical practice and federal law mandate attempts at withdrawal of these medications, empiric data regarding the cessation of NL treatment are limited in this population. The objective of the present study was to assess through direct observation the effects of short-term NL withdrawal on physically aggressive behavior and other aspects of agitation. We carried out a randomized, double-blind, baseline NL-controlled 4-week trial of the effects of NL withdrawal in 36 institutionalized patients with possible or probable Alzheimer's disease. Patients were directly observed for four 2-hour sessions during baseline, a prerandomization week, and during weeks 1, 2, and 4 of the double-blind portion of the study. Completion of the 4 weeks of double-blind medication and number of observed episodes of physically aggressive behavior (PAB) were the two primary outcome measures. Of the 22 patients who were withdrawn from NL, 20 (91%) completed the 4-week double-blinded withdrawal. Two patients were discontinued from the study due to unacceptable levels of agitation at the request of their nursing staff. Of the 14 patients not withdrawn, all completed the 4-week trial. The chi-square test for the difference between groups was not significant ( P > .05). Based on the observed instances of PAB, there was no significant difference ( P > .05) between withdrawn and not-withdrawn subjects. Half of the withdrawn patients remained off NLs for an extended period of time after the end of the study, even after the blind was broken. Withdrawing institutionalized dementia patients from NLs was successful in most but not all study patients. Generalization of these results is limited by the highly selected nature of the participants. Unmasking of unmanageable agitation and physical aggressiveness in a small minority must be weighed against the benefits of removing unnecessary medication in the majority of dementia patients in whom NL withdrawal is attempted. PAB itself should not drive continuing NL use without regard to objective assessment of efficacy of the NL treatment.
Characteristics of Persons Utilizing a Geriatric Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic
Authors: Holroyd Suzanne , Duryee John J.
Published: March 2014

Mental-health service utilization among elderly people has been shown to be low relative to younger age groups. This study was done to determine the current proportion of elderly persons served in a university-affiliated psychiatry outpatient clinic, and to better characterize elderly patients who receive specialized mental-health care in this setting. The proportion of visits from elderly patients (aged 60 and over) was found to be 16%. Demographic and clinical characteristics of a sample of 140 consecutive geriatric patients evaluated at the clinic were obtained. The data revealed that the patients had a mean age of 74.7 ± 7.5 (SD) years, and were mostly female (72.1%) and white (78.6%). Surprisingly, the age distribution was found to be bell shaped, with a small upper tail. The three most prevalent psychiatric diagnoses were depression (56.4%), dementia (35.7%), and substance use disorder (20%). Overall, 59.3% of geriatric patients had a history of prior psychiatric treatment. Females were significantly more likely than males to have a psychiatric history (69.3% vs. 33.3%, P = .0001). Among patients with a psychiatric history, females were more likely to have a current diagnosis of major depression ( P = .0006), while males were more likely to have a current substance use disorder ( P = .03). The prevalence of dementia increased with each successive decade above 60, while the occurrence of bipolar and adjustment disorders was confined to younger geriatric patients. Elderly patients receiving psychiatric treatment in the clinic thus formed a heterogeneous group. Gender, age, and presence of a psychiatric history were all associated with differences in prevalence and distribution of various mental disorders in this geriatric psychiatry outpatient clinic.
Psychiatric Aspects of Temporal Arteritis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Johnson Hazel , Bouman Walter , Pinner Gillian
Published: March 2014

Temporal arteritis may present with atypical manifestations that can hamper its diagnosis. We report a case presenting with predominantly psychiatric symptoms including psychotic features and affective symptoms both on a background of cognitive impairment. Such clear-cut psychotic symptoms have not been described previously in the literature. Corticosteroid treatment was followed by full remission of psychotic and affective symptoms; treatment with antipsychotic medication was unnecessary. Temporal arteritis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of psychosis and affective disorder in the elderly. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a valuable parameter in the assessment of old-age psychiatry patients presenting both with functional and neurologic disorders.
Frontal-Complex Partial Status Epilepticus Misdiagnosed as Bipolar Affective Disorder in a 75-Year-Old Man
Authors: Pascualy Marcella , Tsuang Debby , Shores Molly , Agustin Christina , Krause Eric , Spain William , Bird Thomas , Peskind Elaine
Published: March 2014

The incidence and prevalence of epilepsy increases with age, with the majority of cases having a known cause, and approximately half of elderly patients with epilepsy experiencing complex partial seizures that often present initially as neuropsychiatric symptoms. This presentation often delays diagnosis of the epileptiform disorder. To illustrate, we present the case of a 75-year-old man who was initially misdiagnosed with bipolar affective disorder later to be revealed as a frontal lobe seizure disorder.
Development and Validation of a Structured Telephone Interview for Dementia Assessment (STIDA): The NIMH Genetics Initiative
Authors: Go Rodney C.P. , Duke Linda W. , Harrell Lindy E. , Cody Heather , Bassett Susan S. , Folstein Marshall F. , Albert Marilyn S. , Foster Janet L. , Sharrow Nancy A. , Blacker Deborah
Published: March 2014

As part of the NIMH Genetics Initiative Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Study Group, a brief structured telephone interview to distinguish individuals with normal cognitive functioning from those with changes in cognition and daily functioning suggestive of early AD was developed. The Structured Telephone Interview for Dementia Assessment (STIDA), yields a dementia score between 0 and 81 (higher scores indicating greater impairment). Subscales corresponding to the subscales of the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR) can be derived. The STIDA performed well as a screening instrument for mildly demented individuals. When a score of 10 or more (based on informant interview and subject testing) was used to identify mildly impaired individuals, the STIDA had a sensitivity of .93 and a specificity of .92 for a clinician-derived CDR of 0.5 or more. The STIDA was also capable of accurately assessing the level of dementia. STIDA-derived CDR ratings agreed with clinician-derived CDR scores in 23 of 28 cases, corresponding to an unweighted kappa of .71 and a weighted kappa of .81. A much-abbreviated short STIDA that could be administered directly to the subject was able to detect possible impairment with a sensitivity of .93 and a specificity of .77. These results suggest that the short STIDA provides a sensitive and fairly specific telephone screen for dementia, and that the full STIDA, consisting of an interview with a knowledgeable informant and subject testing, approximates the success of a face-to-face clinical interview, and provides reliable and valid screening and staging of dementia over the telephone.
A Follow-Up Study of Actigraphic Measures in Home-Residing Alzheimer's Disease Patients
Authors: Yesavage Jerome A. , Friedman Leah , Kraemer Helena C. , Noda Art , Wicks Deryl , Bliwise Donald L. , Sheikh Javaid , Tinklenberg Jared , Zarcone Vincent
Published: March 2014

This article reports cross-sectional and follow-up data with actigraphic measures of nocturnal sleep and rest/activity in 61 Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients as well as the relation of actigraphic measures to levels of behavioral disturbance across different stages of the disease. Over the course of approximately 1.5 years' follow-up, patients showed significant deterioration of nocturnal sleep parameters, but no significant change in rest/activity circadian rhythm parameters. There were also significant correlations among nocturnal sleep, rest/activity circadian rhythm, and behavioral disturbance measures, but only in relatively early stages of AD. It is argued that study of nocturnal sleep and circadian rhythm in relation to behavioral disturbance in AD requires longitudinal data and analyses that take into account the stage of disease at which patients are assessed.
Bipolar Disorder in Late Life: A Review
Authors: Chen Stephen T. , Altshuler Lori L. , Spar James E.
Published: March 2014

Although there is a broad base of literature on depression among elderly patients and on mania in younger patients, there is a relative paucity of information on bipolar disorder in the elderly population. While the quantities of data reflect the relative prevalences of these illnesses, there is evidence to suggest that classification of mania in the elderly with respect to age of onset, natural course, family history, and pathophysiology may be useful in understanding the heterogeneous etiologies of this syndrome. This paper presents a review of the literature on the incidence and course of illness in late-life bipolar disorder. Further, dilemmas of diagnostic classification in relation to associated risk factors will be discussed.
Frontotemporal Dementia Genetics
Authors: Wilhelmsen Kirk C.
Published: March 2014

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is the most common syndrome in which the focus of neurodegeneration is the frontal lobes. FTD is frequently familial. It is also often due to a susceptibility locus on chromosome 17q21-22. Some 17q21-22-linked families have mutations in the tau gene and most have microscopically visible aggregates of hyperphosphorylated tau. Demonstrating that mutations in tau can produce neurodegeneration will necessitate a reassessment of the role of tau in the pathogenesis of the many diseases in which tau biology is disrupted.
Genetic Epidemiology of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Payami Haydeh , Zareparsi Sepideh
Published: March 2014

The cause of Parkinson's disease (PD) is unknown. The major risk factors identified to date are family history, age, and elements of rural living. Nearly one-third of all PD cases are familial, a small subset of which appears autosomal dominant; however, the majority exhibit no clear inheritance pattern. Autosomal dominant PD is genetically heterogeneous: two PD genes have been mapped to chromosomes 2 and 4 and there may be additional as yet unidentified genes. The common forms of PD—both familial and sporadic cases—appear to involve a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility and environmental exposure. The observations that rural residence and pesticide exposure increase the risk of developing PD, and that a synthetic drug, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine, can cause parkinsonism, suggest that at least a subset of PD may be caused by a toxin. Furthermore, modest but significant associations have been reported between PD susceptibility and genes that regulate metabolism of drugs and neurotoxins. There is also evidence for mitochondrial dysfunction in PD, a finding that was recently traced to anomalies in mitochondrial DNA. At the present time, the genetics of PD appear to be complex, involving multiple nuclear genes and possibly mitochondrial genes as well.
Delirium: Prevention, Treatment, and Outcome Studies
Authors: Cole Martin G. , Primeau François J. , Élie L. Michel
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this paper was to contribute to a new conceptual understanding of delirium by reviewing evidence related to its prevention, treatment, and outcome. The review process involved a systematic search of the literature on each topic, assessment of the validity of the studies retrieved, and examination of their results. The literature search identified 10 studies on prevention, 13 studies on treatment, and 15 studies on outcome. Most studies had methodological limitations. Abroad spectrum of interventions appeared to be modestly effective in preventing delirium in young and old surgical patients but not elderly medical patients; systematic detection and intervention programs and special nursing care appeared to add large benefits to traditional medical care in young and old surgical patients and modest benefits in elderly medical patients; haloperidol, chlorpromazine, and mianserin appeared to be useful in controlling the symptoms of delirium in both surgical and medical patients; and good levels of premorbid function seemed to be related to better outcomes. Although the above findings do not contribute to a new conceptual understanding of delirium, they do suggest directions for further research on the treatment of delirium.
An analytical investigation of stator lean on rotor–stator interaction noise
Authors: Liu Haijian , Ouyang Hua , Wu Yadong , Tian Jie , Du Zhaohui
Published: March 2014

This paper concentrates on the noise reduction effect of stator lean in rotor–stator interaction. The compressor with a serial stator-blade lean angle has been employed to acoustically test and numerically calculate. The experiment results show that stator-leaned positive has better effect on noise reduction than leaned negative; the tone noise is determinant on total sound pressure level, and the lean angle of the stator should exceed 10°. Based on the results of unsteady calculation about the compressor, the amplitude of the unsteady loading of stator decreases with the increase in the lean angle. Leaned positive stator has lower unsteady force and loading than leaned negative. The phase parameters q and pcle of wakes are almost proportionate to the stator-blade lean angle. The distribution of q and phase close-leading edge ( pcle) shows that the compressor with 25° and −20° stator-blade lean angles has the maximum and minimum phase variation, respectively.
A new method for online identification of the center of mass of spacecraft using multiple accelerometers
Authors: He Huang , Jun Zhou , Yingying Liu
Published: March 2014

The online estimation of the center of mass plays an important role in the attitude and orbit control law design for spacecrafts with significantly time-varying masses. A new method is proposed to estimate the center of mass of a spacecraft by using six accelerometers and three gyros. The six accelerometers are used to measure the accelerations of six different points in three directions, and the three gyros are used to get the angular velocity of the spacecraft. By combining the acceleration and the angular velocity, the angular acceleration can be obtained directly instead of differentiating the angular velocity. In this way, the differential error can be avoided and thus the center of mass estimation precision can be increased. Besides, the requirement on the measurement precisions of gyros and accelerometers can be relaxed. Two configuration modes of the six accelerometers on three directions, 2-2-2 and 3-2-1 are discussed, and based on that the simulation results are generated and evaluated in terms of the root of mean square error of the center of mass estimation. When the measurement precision of accelerometer is higher than [Formula: see text]  g, the results have shown that the root of mean square error of the estimated center of mass is less than 10 mm given the location error and the angular misalignment of accelerometers are less than 5 mm and [Formula: see text]°, respectively.
Nonlinear static analysis-based thrust for solar sail
Authors: Liu Jiafu , Cui Naigang , Shen Fan , Rong Siyuan
Published: March 2014

An accurate thrust model is extremely important for the navigation and space mission of solar sails. The thrust is deeply affected by the deformation of the highly flexible structure. Thus, in this paper, the exact thrust models for two-point and infinite-point-connected sails are presented by calculating the static deformations for the sail support beam structure with geometrical nonlinearity based on the assumption that the deformation of the sail film coincides with the support beam. And the film is merely regarded as the structure that transfers the solar radiation pressure force to the support beam. The nonlinear finite element model of the support beam with the Von-Karman’s nonlinear strain–displacement relationships is obtained. Then the Newton iteration method is used to calculate the large deformation of the sail structure. The thrust-modification methods are proposed for the two-connected sail. The deformation of the two-point-connected sail is larger than the infinite-point-connected sail, and the thrust loss of the two-point-connected sail is larger than the infinite-point-connected sail by nonlinear static calculations. Some suggestions are given based on the calculation results and relevant analysis. The thrust model should be verified and modified by in-flight data in the future.
Fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG) to monitor cardiac time intervals in fetuses at risk for isoimmune AV block
Authors: Kiefer-Schmidt I , Lim M , Preissl H , Draganova R , Weiss M , Abele H , Kagan KO , Henes J
Published: March 2014

Objective: The objective of this report is to detect cardiac time intervals (CTIs) in fetuses exposed to SSA/Ro-SSB/La antibodies in relation to gestational age (GA) and fetal weight and compared them with a control cohort. Methods: Fetal magnetocardiography (fMCG) recordings were conducted on a biomagnetic device dedicated to obstetrical measurement starting in the second trimester. Fetal cardiac time intervals of 87 healthy fetuses of normal gestation (control group) were compared to 11 fetuses exposed to maternal SSA/Ro-SSB/La antibodies (study group). Results: fCTIs were analyzed starting at 17 weeks of GA. Atrial and ventricular depolarization times increased with GA in both groups. PQ segments were significantly longer in the study group (50.8 ms vs. 60.2 ms; p < 0.001) independent of GA or fetal weight. PQ segment prolongation was more obvious in the study group prior to 30 weeks of GA. Conclusion: PQ segment prolongation can be interpreted as early AV-node involvement caused by maternal SSA/Ro-SSB/La antibodies. The age dependency of the PQ segment should be taken into account in further studies.
Sliding Fibular Graft Repair for the Treatment of Recurrent Peroneal Subluxation
Authors: Zhenbo Zuo , Jin Wang , Haifeng Gong , Huanting Li , Feng Chen , Ming Li
Published: March 2014

Background:

Because recurrent peroneal subluxation can produce functional impairment in athletes, most authors suggest operative intervention for patients who fail nonoperative treatment. The present report introduces the modified sliding fibular graft repair for this pathology.

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted to analyze the clinical results for 26 patients with recurrent peroneal subluxation who underwent this procedure with a follow-up of a minimum of 3 years.

Results:

Intraoperative observations revealed 15 convex grooves and 11 shallow sulci with a low-lying peroneus brevis muscle belly in 6 patients and a peroneus quartus muscle in 4 patients. All underwent the procedure plus excision of redundant muscle and tendon repair, with an improvement rate of 88.5% according to American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score at the final visit. All but 3 patients returned to normal function in 4.4 months with no infection, nonunion, or intra-articular screw placement. A total of 8 patients had minor complications including neurapraxia, synovitis, stress fracture, and delayed union.

Conclusion:

We found that an anomalous fibular groove plus tendon variants could lead to a further decrease in the volume of the osteofibrous tunnel and might be the reason for recurrent peroneal dislocation; thus, our modified procedure may be a reasonable treatment for this pathological malposition. We found less functional recovery in aged patients due to a higher incidence of tendon tear and postoperative complications.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
Radiological Morphology of Peritalar Instability in Varus and Valgus Tilted Ankles
Authors: Nosewicz Tomasz L. , Knupp Markus , Bolliger Lilianna , Henninger Heath B. , Barg Alexej , Hintermann Beat
Published: March 2014

Background:

Varus and valgus talar tilt in weight-bearing ankles can be explained by loss of peritalar stability allowing the talus to shift and rotate on the calcaneal and navicular surfaces. Little is known about the underlying destabilization process or the resulting talar malpositions. The purpose of this study was to determine talar position in 3 radiographic planes of varus and valgus tilted ankles.

Methods:

Standard weight-bearing radiographs of 126 varus ankles (118 patients [mean age 62 ± 12 years]) and 81 valgus ankles (75 patients [mean age 65 ± 10 years]) were retrospectively evaluated. The tibiotalar surface angle, sagittal talocalcaneal inclination angle, and horizontal talometatarsal I angle were used to determine the frontal, sagittal, and horizontal position of the talus. A control group was used for comparison.

Results:

Isolated talar varus malposition was found in 33.3% of the ankles (42/126), and malposition in 1 or both additional planes was found in 49.2% (62/126) and 17.5% (22/126), respectively. In valgus ankles, the percentages were 52% (42/81), 43% (35/81), and 5% (4/81), respectively. Seven out of 9 possible varus and 5 out of 9 possible valgus talar malposition configurations were found. The 4 predominant varus malposition configurations (89.7%, or 113/126) were dorsiflexion or neutral (sagittal plane) combined with neutral/external rotation and neutral/internal rotation (horizontal plane), respectively. The 3 predominant valgus malposition configurations (95%, or 77/81) were neutral or plantar flexion (sagittal plane) combined with neutral/external rotation and neutral (horizontal plane), respectively.

Conclusion:

In varus and valgus tilted ankles, talar frontal plane alignment does not predict talar sagittal and horizontal position, indicating that peritalar instability leads to various talar malpositions. Prior to operative treatment of varus and valgus tilted ankles, thorough 3-dimensional analysis of talar position may minimize failure in properly balancing the talus within the ankle mortise.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Tracking changes over time in retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Narayanan Divya , Cheng Han , Bonem Karlie N , Saenz Roberto , Tang Rosa A , Frishman Laura J
Published: March 2014

Background:

Neurodegeneration plays an important role in permanent disability in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to determine whether progressive neurodegeneration occurs in MS eyes without clinically evident inflammation.

Methods:

Retinal nerve fiver layer thickness (RNFLT) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness (GCIPT) were measured using Cirrus optical coherence tomography (OCT) in 133 relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) patients (149 non-optic neuritis (ON), 97 ON eyes, last ON ≥6 months). Ninety-three patients were scanned at two visits. Percentages of abnormal GCIPT vs RNFLT (<5% of machine norms) in cross-sectional data were compared. Relations between RNFLT/GCIPT and MS duration (cross-sectional) and follow-up time (longitudinal) were assessed.

Results:

GCIPT was abnormal in more eyes than RNFLT (27% vs 16% p = 0.004 in non-ON, 82% vs 72% p = 0.007 in ON). RNFLT and GCIPT decreased with MS duration by −0.49 µm/yr ( p = 0.0001) and −0.36 ( p = 0.005) for non-ON; −0.52 ( p = 0.003) and −0.41 ( p = 0.007) for ON. RNFLT and GCIPT decreased with follow-up time by −1.49 µm/yr ( p < 0.0001) and −0.53 ( p = 0.004) for non-ON, −1.27 ( p = 0.002) and −0.49 ( p = 0.04) for ON.

Conclusions:

In RRMS eyes without clinically evident inflammation, progressive loss of RNFLT and GCIPT occurred, supporting the need for neuroprotection in addition to suppression of autoimmune responses and inflammation.
Exploring the agreement between questionnaire information and DSM-IV diagnoses of comorbid psychopathology in children with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Gjevik Elen , Sandstad Berit , Andreassen Ole A , Myhre Anne M , Sponheim Eili
Published: March 2014

Autism spectrum disorders are often comorbid with other psychiatric symptoms and disorders. However, identifying psychiatric comorbidity in children with autism spectrum disorders is challenging. We explored how a questionnaire, the Child Behavior Check List, agreed with a Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–Fourth Edition (DSM-IV)-based semi-structured interview, the Kiddie-Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School-Age Children (Kiddie-SADS). The sample comprised 55 children and adolescents (age 6 to 18 years) with autism spectrum disorders, including the main autism spectrum disorder subgroups and the broad range of cognitive and language functioning. High rate of psychopathology was found both through questionnaire and interview assessment. Using predefined Child Behavior Check List cutoffs, we found good agreement between the Child Behavior Check List and the Kiddie-SADS for identifying attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depressive disorders, and oppositional defiant disorder. However, overall the specificity of the Child Behavior Check List was low. The Child Behavior Check List was not useful for identifying anxiety disorders. The Child Behavior Check List may capture core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders as well as comorbid psychopathology, and clinicians should be aware that the Child Behavior Check List may be unspecific when used in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.
Dominant contrast as a metric for the lighting of pedestrians
Authors: Saraiji R , Oommen M Saju
Published: March 2014

CIE Publication 115 and ANSI/IESNA Recommended Practice 8-00 both use vertical illuminance 1.5 m above the ground as a design criterion for the lighting of pedestrians. While vertical illuminance has the advantage of being easy to calculate and measure, visibility is based primarily on target contrast. A central question related to the visibility of pedestrians is whether drivers need to see the whole pedestrian or can they infer the presence of a pedestrian by recognizing any part of the pedestrian’s shape. The objective of this work was to first explore various pedestrian contrast profiles that could exist and then to find a simplified approach to characterize pedestrian night-time visibility. The problem was addressed through theoretical analyses and computer simulations. Pedestrian contrast was found to be bipolar and dynamic. From the contrast profiles, we developed the concept of dominant contrast, which is defined as the contrast of any part of the pedestrian that provides the highest visibility. Dominant contrast was examined as a metric for street lighting design and night time visibility for (a) an unlit street with car headlights, (b) a lit street without car headlights and (c) a lit street with car headlights. Dominant contrast was found to be a viable metric for street lighting design and night time visibility studies.
A paracardiac mass on chest X-ray due to giant LAD pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Omar Hesham R. , Mangar Devanand , Camporesi Enrico M.
Published: March 2014

We describe a case of a giant left anterior descending coronary artery pseudoaneurysm presenting with acute coronary syndrome and projecting as a paracardiac mass on chest X-ray.
Multiple Intelligences and ESL Teaching and Learning
Authors: Ghamrawi Norma
Published: March 2014

This study examined teachers’ use of the Multiple Intelligences Theory on vocabulary acquisition by preschoolers during English as a second language (ESL) classes in a K-12 school in Lebanon. Eighty kindergartners (KG II, aged 5 years) and eight teachers constituted the sample. The study used mixed methods, including observations of videotaped sessions, teacher surveys, and student interviews. Results indicated that (a) students acquired new vocabulary faster using traditional methods of teaching; however, their retention of such vocabulary was significantly weaker when compared with the vocabulary acquired in Multiple Intelligence (MI) classes; (b) the MI profile of the teachers was correlated with their teaching styles and lesson delivery; and (c) teachers who used MI in their teaching also had lower usage of higher order thinking skills. The study recommends the utilization of MI in ESL teaching and learning, yet also stipulates some aspects to be taken into consideration.
Assessing Science Reasoning and Conceptual Understanding in the Primary Grades Using Standardized and Performance-Based Assessments
Authors: Kim Kyung Hee , VanTassel-Baska Joyce , Bracken Bruce A. , Feng Annie , Stambaugh Tamra
Published: March 2014

Project Clarion, a Jacob K. Javits-funded project, focused on the scale-up of primary-grade science curricula. Curriculum units, based on an Integrated Curriculum Model (ICM), were developed for high-ability learners, but tried out with all students in Title I settings to study the efficacy of the units with all learners. The units focus on the development of students’ conceptual understanding to undergird science content attainment. Teaching and learning models, such as concept formation and concept mapping were used to scaffold science learning and reasoning for appropriate curriculum differentiation. Science content mastery was measured using the Metropolitan Achievement Tests. Reasoning skills were measured using the Test of Critical Thinking. Understanding of macro-concepts and content attainment were measured by curriculum-embedded performance-based assessments. Students with the ICM outperformed students without the specialized curriculum in science content and reasoning skills, and showed greater growth in both conceptual understanding and content attainment.
Explaining the Mental Health Disparity by Sexual Orientation
Authors: Hsieh Ning
Published: March 2014

This study examines the role of social integration and social support, a significant yet under-investigated factor in mental health disparities by sexual orientation. By analyzing National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from a representative sample of the middle-aged U.S. population, the study shows that bisexual-identified individuals have the lowest levels of social resources and the poorest mental health status of all sexual orientation groups. Lesbian/gay-identified individuals and heterosexual-identified individuals with same-sex sexual experience are less socially integrated or perceive less emotional support than the sexual majority but do not report poorer mental health. Moreover, social integration and social support jointly mediate the link between sexual orientation and mental distress: sexual minorities are less socially integrated, which is related to a lower level of social support and, in turn, a higher level of mental distress. Additionally, minority-identified individuals reap more health benefits from confidants and emotional support. These findings suggest that sexual minorities are among those who most need and most benefit from supportive social relationships. The study therefore reveals the importance of social resource interventions in narrowing the mental health gap by sexual orientation.
Twitter
Authors: Hutchins Brett
Published: March 2014

In this Twitter Research Forum essay, Brett Hutchins, a leading researcher on the increasing digitization of sports media, reflects on the use value of Twitter for sports media researchers. Hutchins notes two responses for the increase in the number of research articles examining Twitter in the sporting context: (1) acknowledgment of the pivotal role of social networking platforms in contemporary sport industries and (2) a distinct repetitiveness in some research about social media and sport. Noting the ease of data collection concerning Twitter, Hutchins argues that the novelty of Twitter is insufficient justification for analyzing a limited sample of tweets. It is suggested that future research needs to examine Twitter’s status as a commercial enterprise and that commodification needs to be more centrally considered when “scraping” data from Twitter output. Foremost, it is argued that Twitter is best positioned as the subject but not the center of inquiry and matters only because it is a source of insight into the transformation of media and technology markets. The essay closes by encouraging sport media researchers to broaden their agenda by engaging with research on the nonsporting sociocultural contexts and impacts of new digital media.
Fluoroscopically Guided Peritendinous Corticosteroid Injection for Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy
Authors: Nicholson Luke T. , DiSegna Steven , Newman Joel S. , Miller Suzanne L.
Published: March 2014

Background:

Proximal hamstring tendinopathy is an uncommon but debilitating cause of posterior thigh pain in athletes subjected to repetitive eccentric hamstring contraction, such as runners. Minimal data exist evaluating treatment options for proximal hamstring tendinopathy.

Purpose:

This retrospective study evaluates the effectiveness of fluoroscopically guided corticosteroid injections in treating proximal hamstring tendinopathy.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Eighteen athletes with 22 cases of magnetic resonance imaging–confirmed proximal hamstring tendinopathy were treated with corticosteroid injection and later contacted to evaluate the efficacy of the injection with the use of a questionnaire.

Results:

The visual analog score decreased from 7.22 preinjection to 3.94 postinjection ( P < .001), level of athletic participation increased from 28.76% to 68.82% ( P < .001) at a mean follow-up of 21 months, and 38.8% of patients experienced complete resolution at a mean follow-up of 24.8 months. The mean lower extremity function score at the time of follow-up was 60.

Conclusion:

A trial of fluoroscopically guided corticosteroid injection is warranted in patients presenting with symptoms of proximal hamstring tendinopathy refractory to conservative therapy.
Grain boundary character distribution and sensitisation behaviour of grain boundary engineered stable austenitic stainless steel (AISI 316L)
Authors: Hou G. , Luo H. , Lv J.
Published: March 2014

Thermomechanical processing involving a wide range of strain (5–80) followed by annealing was applied to a type 316L austenitic stainless steel to encourage grain boundary engineered (GBE) structure. As a result of GBE process, the total length fraction of low Σ coincidence site lattice boundaries increased noticeably in conjunction with different levels of grain growth. The GBE structures resulted in significant decreases in the degree of sensitisation following exposure at 948 K for 20 h and assessment through double loop electrochemical potentiokinetic reactivation tests. Strain of low level (5) was more effective than medium to high strain in inspiring GBE. The role of grain size on the sensitisation process has also been discussed. Additionally, abnormal grain growth contributes to the optimisation of GBE structure.
Performance of cold spray coating in industrial medical waste incinerator
Authors: Kalsi S. B. S. , Sidhu T. S. , Singh H.
Published: March 2014

NiCrAlY coating was deposited on Ni based Superni 76 superalloy using cold spray process to enhance the life of superalloy. The present investigation is an attempt to evaluate comparative behaviour of hot corrosion of the bare and coated superalloy in actual industrial medical waste incinerator. The study was conducted in the secondary chamber of medical waste incinerator for 1000 h under cyclic conditions at 900°C. The life of bare and coated superalloy has been evaluated based on thickness lost due to erosion–corrosion. The cold sprayed NiCrAlY coating successfully provided protection to the superalloy against hot corrosion. Based upon thickness loss data, the corrosion rate of exposed coated specimen calculated as 35·87 mpy.
Peripheral blood monocyte-derived chemokine blockade prevents murine transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI)
Authors: McKenzie Christopher G. J. , Kim Michael , Singh Tarandeep K. , Milev Youli , Freedman John , Semple John W.
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Anti-MHC antibodies that induce TRALI in a murine model first bind their cognate antigen and stimulate blood monocytes to secrete chemokines. Full TRALI induction (lung damage) requires a subsequent monocyte Fc-dependent process.
Global transcriptome analyses of human and murine terminal erythroid differentiation
Authors: An Xiuli , Schulz Vincent P. , Li Jie , Wu Kunlu , Liu Jing , Xue Fumin , Hu Jingping , Mohandas Narla , Gallagher Patrick G.
Published: March 2014

Key Points

Transcriptome analyses of human and murine reveal significant stage and species-specific differences across stages of terminal erythroid differentiation. These transcriptomes provide a significant resource for understanding mechanisms of normal and perturbed erythropoiesis.
Evidence of MRSE on a gentamicin and vancomycin impregnated polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement spacer after two-stage exchange arthroplasty due to periprosthetic joint infection of the knee
Authors: Schmolders Jan , Hischebeth Gunnar TR , Friedrich Max J , Randau Thomas M , Wimmer Matthias D , Kohlhof Hendrik , Molitor Ernst , Gravius Sascha
Published: March 2014

Background

Periprosthetic joint infections (PJI) are often treated by two stage exchange with the use of an antibiotic impregnated spacer. Most of the two-stage exchange algorithms recommend the implantation of an antibiotic-impregnated spacer during the first stage for a period of 2–24 weeks before reimplantation of the new prosthesis. For the spacer to have a therapeutic effect, the local antibiotic concentration must be greater than the minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) against the pathogens causing the PJI. It must remain so for the entire spacer period, otherwise recurrence of infection or resistances might occur. The question as to whether a sufficient concentration of antibiotics in vivo is reached for the entire spacer period has not been answered satisfactorily.

Case presentation

We here present a case of a histologically confirmed chronic PJI 20 month after primary arthroplasty. The primary knee arthroplasty was performed due to osteoarthritis of the joint. Initial assessment did not detect a causative pathogen, and two stage exchange with a vancomycin-gentamycin impregnated spacer was performed. At the time of reimplantation, sonication of the explanted spacer revealed a multi-resistant strain of staphylococcus epidermidis on the device and in the joint. Adaption of the therapy and prolonged treatment successfully eradicated the infection.

Conclusion

According to the authors’ knowledge, the case presented here confirms for the first time the surface contamination (proven through sonication) of a vancomycin-/gentamicin- impregnated Vancogenx®-spacer with a MRSE after ten weeks of implantation.

This case study demonstrates the difficulties still associated with the diagnostics of PJI and the published different two stage treatment regimes with the use of antibiotic impregnated spacers.
Secular trends of low birthweight and macrosomia and related maternal factors in Beijing, China: a longitudinal trend analysis
Authors: Shan Xiaoyi , Chen Fangfang , Wang Wenpeng , Zhao Juan , Teng Yue , Wu Minghui , Teng Honghong , Zhang Xue , Qi Hong , Liu Xiaohong , Tan Chunying , Mi Jie
Published: March 2014

Background

Information tracking changes of birthweight is scarce in China. To examine trends of low birthweight (birthweight < 2500 g) and macrosomia (birthweight ≥ 4000 g) and potential risk factors in Beijing, hospital records from two major obstetrics and gynecology hospitals in urban districts in Beijing were analyzed.

Methods

Hospital records from 1996 to 2010 were retrieved. Information of prenatal examination and birth outcomes was entered into a structured database. Live births were used for trend analysis. Information of live births in 2010 was used to identify potential risk factors.

Results

A total of 63 661 live births were delivered during 1996–2010 in the study hospitals. The average birthweight increased from 3271 g in 1996 to 3 359 g in 2000 and slightly declined to 3 331 in 2010. The percentage of low birthweight fluctuated around 4.0%. No significant increase or decrease was observed. Preterm birth was the main cause of low birthweight, accounting for more than 73% of low birthweight. The average percentage of macrosomia was 7.6%. The percentages of macrosomia increased from 6.6% in 1996 to 9.5% in 2000 and declined to 7.0% in 2010. Excessive gestational weight gain and gestational diabetes were significantly associated with macrosomia.

Conclusions

Continuously monitoring abnormal birthweight is needed and intervention should focus on appropriate gestational weight gain and reduction of preterm birth and gestational diabetes.
Inhibition of G Protein-Coupled P2Y2 Receptor Induced Analgesia in a Rat Model of Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Li Na , Lu Zhan-Ying , Yu Li-Hua , Burnstock Geoffrey , Deng Xiao-Ming , Ma Bei
Published: March 2014

Backgrouds:

ATP and P2X receptors play important roles in the modulation of trigeminal neuropathic pain, while the role of G protein-coupled P2Y2 receptors and the underlying mechanisms are less clear. The threshold and frequency of action potentials, fast inactivating transient K+ channels (IA) are important regulators of membrane excitability in sensory neurons because of its vital role in the control of the spike onset. In this study, pain behavior tests, QT-RT-PCR, immunohistochemical staining, and patch-clamp recording, were used to investigate the role of P2Y2 receptors in pain behaviour.

Results:

In control rats: 1) UTP, an agonist of P2Y2/P2Y4 receptors, caused a significant decrease in the mean threshold intensities for evoking action potentials and a striking increase in the mean number of spikes evoked by TG neurons. 2) UTP significantly inhibited IA and the expression of Kv1.4, Kv3.4 and Kv4.2 subunits in TG neurons, which could be reversed by the P2 receptor antagonist suramin and the ERK antagonist U0126. In ION-CCI (chronic constriction injury of infraorbital nerve) rats: 1) mRNA levels of Kv1.4, Kv3.4 and Kv4.2 subunits were significantly decreased, while the protein level of phosphorylated ERK was significantly increased. 2) When blocking P2Y2 receptors by suramin or injection of P2Y2R antisense oligodeoxynucleotides both led to a time- and dose-dependent reverse of allodynia in ION-CCI rats. 3) Injection of P2Y2 receptor antisense oligodeoxynucleotides induced a pronounced decrease in phosphorylated ERK expression and a significant increase in Kv1.4, Kv3.4 and Kv4.2 subunit expression in trigeminal ganglia.

Conclusions:

Our data suggest that inhibition of P2Y2 receptors leads to down-regulation of ERK-mediated phosphorylation and increase of the expression of IA–related Kv channels in trigeminal ganglion neurons, which might contribute to the clinical treatment of trigeminal neuropathic pain.
Rituximab Plus Chlorambucil As First-Line Treatment for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Final Analysis of an Open-Label Phase II Study
Authors: Hillmen Peter , Gribben John G. , Follows George A. , Milligan Donald , Sayala Hazem A. , Moreton Paul , Oscier David G. , Dearden Claire E. , Kennedy Daniel B. , Pettitt Andrew R. , Nathwani Amit , Varghese Abraham , Cohen Dena , Rawstron Andy , Oertel Stephan , Pocock Christopher F.E.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

Most patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are elderly and/or have comorbidities that may make them ineligible for fludarabine-based treatment. For this population, chlorambucil monotherapy is an appropriate therapeutic option; however, response rates with chlorambucil are low, and more effective treatments are needed. This trial was designed to assess how the addition of rituximab to chlorambucil (R-chlorambucil) would affect safety and efficacy in patients with CLL.

Patients and Methods

Patients with first-line CLL were treated with rituximab (375 mg/m2 on day 1, cycle one, and 500 mg/m2 thereafter) plus chlorambucil (10 mg/m2/d all cycles; day 1 through 7) for six 28-day cycles. For patients not achieving complete response (CR), six additional cycles of chlorambucil alone could be administered. The primary end point of the study was safety.

Results

A total of 100 patients were treated with R-chlorambucil, with a median follow-up of 30 months. Median age of patients was 70 years (range, 43 to 86 years), with patients having a median of seven comorbidities. Hematologic toxicities accounted for most grade 3/4 adverse events reported, with neutropenia and lymphopenia both occurring in 41% of patients and leukopenia in 23%. Overall response rates were 84%, with CR achieved in 10% of patients. Median progression-free survival was 23.5 months; median overall survival was not reached.

Conclusion

These results compare favorably with previously published results for chlorambucil monotherapy, suggesting that the addition of rituximab to chlorambucil may improve efficacy with no unexpected adverse events. R-chlorambucil may improve outcome for patients who are ineligible for fludarabine-based treatments.
The endocytic activity of the flagellar pocket in Trypanosoma brucei is regulated by an adjacent phosphatidylinositol phosphate kinase
Authors: Demmel Lars , Schmidt Katy , Lucast Louise , Havlicek Katharina , Zankel Armin , Koestler Tina , Reithofer Viktoria , de Camilli Pietro , Warren Graham
Published: March 2014

Phosphoinositides are spatially restricted membrane signaling molecules. Phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PI(4,5)P2), a phosphoinositide highly enriched in and present throughout the plasma membrane, has been implicated in endocytosis. Trypanosoma brucei has one of the highest known rates of endocytosis, a process it uses to evade the immune system. To determine whether phosphoinositides play a role in endocytosis in this organism we have identified and characterized one of the enzymes responsible for generating PI(4,5)P2. Surprisingly, this phosphoinositide was found to be highly concentrated in the flagellar pocket, the only site of endocytosis and exocytosis in this organism. The enzyme (designated TbPIPKA, annotated as Tb927.10.1620), furthermore, was present at the neck of the pocket, towards the anterior end of the parasite. Depletion of TbPIPKA led to depletion of PI(4,5)P2 and enlargement of the pocket, the result of impaired endocytosis. Together, these data suggest that TbPIPKA and its product PI(4,5)P2 are important for endocytosis and consequently for flagellar pocket homeostasis.
Electrochemical Characterization of Azolium Salts
Authors: Ogawa Kelli A , Boydston Andrew J
Published: March 2014

Redox properties of a series of azolium salts, including benzothiazolium, thiazolinium, thiazolium, triazolium, imidazolium, and imidazolinium salts, have been systematically investigated. The series includes a broad range of N-arylthiazolium salts that collectively demonstrate the ability to fine-tune the reduction potential of the thiazolium ring via electronic modification of the N-aryl moiety. Additionally, a novel class of N-arylthiazolinium salts has been synthesized and characterized. In contrast to what has been observed for imidazolium and imidazolinium counterparts, saturation of the thiazolium backbone to give thiazolinium salts results in a more facile electrochemical reduction.