bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case-Study on the Effects of the Menstrual Cycle and the Use of a Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill on the Performance of a Western Classical Singer: An Objective and Subjective Overview
Authors: Lã Filipa , Davidson Jane W. , Ledger William , Howard David , Jones Georgina
Published: November 2015

This case study explores the objective and psychologically perceived effects of the menstrual cycle and the use of a combined oral contraceptive pill on the singing performance of a western classical female singer. Objective measures of vocal parameters and hormonal concentrations were assessed during her natural menstrual cycle and during the use of an oral contraceptive pill. A diary was kept throughout the six months duration of the study and one lengthy semi-structured interview was also carried out with the singer, focussing on perceptions of her singing quality over the entire study. Aural analyses of the singing recordings were also undertaken by two independently qualified judges to see whether or not vocal changes were perceptible to listeners. The results suggest that: (i) hormonal variations during the natural menstrual cycle affected physiological and psychological aspects of the singer's performance; (ii) the pattern of vibration of the vocal folds seems to be more regular, and vocal control seems to be improved during oral contraceptive pill use; (iii) the singer reported better voice control during oral contraceptive pill use; (iv) listeners perceive intonation problems and wider vibrato during the natural menstrual cycle. This study suggests that further research on the effects of female sexual hormones on the singer's voice is necessary, and that female singers should be educated regarding these matters, in order to protect their voices and careers.
Effects of Non-Musical Attributes and Excerpt Duration on Ratings of High-Level Piano Performances
Authors: Wapnick Joel , Campbell Louise , Siddell-Strebel Jeanne , Darrow Alice-Ann
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine if judgments of expert piano performances would be affected by excerpt duration, non-musical attributes of performer attractiveness, dress, and stage behavior, and by an interaction between duration and these attributes. Given that non-musical attributes would be evident from the beginning of a performance but that information about performance quality would accrue with time spent listening, it was hypothesized that non-musical attribute biases would weaken with increasing excerpt length. Thirty-three undergraduate and graduate music majors rated performers on non-musical attributes by observing performers with the sound turned off. One hundred fourteen participants rated 15 performances on 6 test items, either under an audio-only condition or under an audiovisual condition. Excerpts were 25, 55, and 115 seconds.

Results showing that high-attractive women held an advantage over low-attractive women for 25-second excerpts but not for longer ones confirmed the hypothesis that the importance of attractiveness declines with increased musical exposure. This hypothesis was less strongly supported for ratings of male performers, for whom differences in dress appeared to be of greater import. It was also found that there was significantly greater agreement between test items within excerpt durations than across them. Ratings were higher at 55 seconds and 115 seconds than they were at 25 seconds, although reliability declined slightly as excerpts became longer. Finally, performances judged under the audiovisual condition were rated significantly higher than performances judged under the audio-only condition.
“A New Pleasure”: Listening to National Gramophonic Society Records, 1924–1931
Authors: Morgan Nick
Published: November 2015

This paper draws on research into the National Gramophonic Society (N.G.S.), a British record label of the 1920s which specialized in chamber music. Existing accounts of the early development of the record industry concentrate on the production and marketing of recordings; they also address the reception of recordings but on very broad scales, chiefly in the field of popular music, and mainly through the writings of prominent critics. Early consumers of recorded music have received less attention, yet their testimonies tell us much about the crucial developments of the 1920s, when innovative technology and marketing persuaded many lovers of “classical” music to accept the gramophone. Because it operated by subscription, the N.G.S. can be used, in the manner of a historical microscope, to focus on individual listeners during this period and study their backgrounds, motivations, tastes and habits. Some transferred to the gramophone existing practices from music, literature and other cultural spheres; for others, records offered engagement with and appreciation of types of music which had previously been inaccessible.
The application of GTTM on 20th century modal music: Research based on the analysis of Yannis Constantinidis's “44 Greek miniatures for piano”
Authors: Tsougras Costas
Published: November 2015

This paper examines the adaptation and expansion of Lerdahl’ s & Jackendoff s Generative Theory of Tonal Music so that it may be applied on the analysis of 20th century modal music. Based on the premise that a considerable part of the theory's rules are universal — meaning that the principles of music perception and cognition are the same for all experienced listeners regardless of the musical idiom in which they are experienced — the application of GTTM to musical idioms other than the Western classical one requires formulation of idiom-specific well-formedness and preference rules, and description of the special tonal hierarchy. These tasks may be accomplished through the analytical study of a considerable quantity of music representing a certain idiom, and the description of its features in relation to the four parts of the GTTM methodology. The chosen analytical object — 44 Greek miniatures for piano — is representative of the musical idiom deriving from the amalgamation of Greek modal music and 20th century harmonization techniques, distinctive of the musical style of Greek composer Yannis Constantinidis. An inductive methodological process was used for the individual and comparative analysis of all 44 pieces. This paper includes three complete GTTM sample analyses from the 44 piano pieces, a summary of the stylistic characteristics of the analyzed music, and the formulation of the special well-formedness and preference rules, introduced as either new rules to the theory or adaptations of the existing ones.
ESCOM as the life work of Irène Deliège: Irène Deliège in conversation with Jukka Louhivuori
Authors: Louhivuori Jukka , Deliege Irene
Published: November 2015

ESCOM has established itself as an influential actor in the field of cognitive sciences of music. The journal, Musicae Scientiae, including its special issues, discussions forums, the ESCOM conferences and smaller symposia, have all contributed significantly to the field. Although many people have contributed to ESCOM's activities in important ways, the society is very much the life work of Irène Deliège. She is the founding editor of Musicæ Scientiæ and the founding Permanent Secretary of ESCOM.

The aim of publishing the following interview is to ensure that interesting and important details about ESCOM's background will be on record for future use. The conversation took place in Brussels in June 2009. It began with biographical memories of her Irène's childhood, her studies, and other important events in her life. The main focus of the discussion was the history of when and why the society was established, who was involved in this process and what role ESCOM has played in the various sub-disciplines involved with the study of music.

This article is no memorial, nor merely an expression of gratitude for nearly two decades of dedicated effort but reflects the important need for any society to draw on the wisdom those people who have the greatest knowledge of, experience in and history with that society. Irène Deliège is certainly one of those people. She continues her active work in the society as a member of the executive committee.
Tonal implications of dyadic harmony
Authors: Woolhouse Matthew , Cross Ian
Published: November 2015

An experiment is presented in which the tonal attraction between context dyads and following probe tones was measured using listeners’ subjective ratings of ‘resolution’ and/or ‘pull’. The data were analysed with respect to three core variables identified within the stimuli: (1) interval cycles; (2) whether the context dyad was consonant or dissonant; and (3) the presence of possible tonic pitches. Only the interval cycle variable consistently and significantly accounted for the listeners’ responses. (An interval cycle is the minimum number of additive iterations of an interval that are required for the original pitch classes to be restated.) The experiment and the issue of tonal attraction are discussed within the context of the interval cycle proximity hypothesis.
User-oriented studies in embodied music cognition research
Authors: Leman Marc , Lesaffre Micheline , Nijs Luc , Deweppe Alexander
Published: November 2015

Music research aims at developing a research space that, in a proactive sense, can support the development of creative and cultural industries. In that context, we argue that a focus on users and their experiences in using tools may become more important in music research. It implies an expansion of the traditional methods of music psychology with methods that can address relevant features of musical action and musical tool use. This paper discusses epistemological and methodological issues related to this development.
Lire Beethoven: une étude exploratoire des mouvements des yeux
Authors: Servant Isabelle , Baccino Et Thierry
Published: November 2015

Cet article presente des données expérimentales issues de l'analyse des mouvements des yeux de musiciens qui lisaient de courts fragments de partitions de Beethoven qui, soitcontenaient un certain nombre d'événements rythmiques, mélodiques et harmoniques (versions originates), soit en étaient relativement dépourvus (les mèmes fragments ayant été alors modifies de manière à supprimer une partie de la complexité. L'objectif était de noter si la richesse d'écriture d'un compositeur tel que Beethoven pouvait se traduire auniveau oculomoteur et cognitif par des similarités comportementales à la lecture de texteslittéraires. Les événements musicaux dans les partitions originales étaient censés induire des processus cognitifs généralement observés dans la comprehension textuelle (saccades regressives et durees de fixation plus longues aux endroits particulièrement signifiants). Les résultats montrent à la fois l'utilisation chez le sujet de mécanismes oculornoteurs habituels en lecture textuelle, mais font également apparaïtre des comportements typiques de lecture musicale. On observe dans les fragments originaux un accroissement des contröml;les locaux (fixations régressives intra-mesures) et globaux (réinspections) qui témoignent des difficultes d'intégration de l'information. Cet effet est plus important lors de la lecture des versions originales de Beethoven comparée aux versions simplifiées. Cette intégration informationnelle est réalisée immédiatement, dès que le sujet rencontre l'événement musical dans la partition. De manière générale, il semble que les sujets soient tres rapidement informés de la richesse ou non du fragment, et que l'originalité d'écriture musicale, mème localisée, affecte la lecture du fragment dans son ensemble.
Modelling the Internal Generation of Rhythm as an Extension of Nonlinear Psychophysics
Authors: Geake John G. , Gregson Robert A. M.
Published: November 2015

Mathematical models within nonlinear psychophysics (NPD) are applied here to the internal production of rhythms. Previously, the behaviour of convoluted cubic polynomial trajectories, after a brief period of initialization, has been explored and their local patterns encoded in symbolic form. The generation of rhythmic, short melodic and some harmonic sequences can arise spontaneously in the dynamics of those trajectories. Edge-of-chaos regimes can drive a response dynamics which then exhibits arpeggio-like subsequences, and can have a multiplicity of periodicities, some of which are not in the bifurcation series in powers of two. The symbolic dynamics are created by reducing series which can range over a closed continuum to transitions between the members of a finite set of states. The apparent degradation of information comes closer to what real subjects can achieve, or perhaps derive, from filtering their own internal neurophysiological activity. To the extent that NPD reflects (as yet unknown) neurophysiological processes, these models suggest that rhythm and tonality, while generated independently, dynamically interact in music performance, at least in experienced musicians.
Valuing Differences
Authors: O'Neale Rosalyn Taylor
Published: November 2015

At Digital Equipment Corporation, multicultural training receives top-level commitment and takes place in all sites where employees reside—from Massachusetts to Switzerland, Tokyo to Tennessee, California to Maine, and everyplace in between. Forums range from multicultural workshops to informal conversations in hallways to the Multicultural Awareness Day in Arizona, which drew hundreds of employees and their families for a celebration and entertainment.
Take Your Training to College
Authors: Robinson Jo Ann , Swinerton E. Nelson
Published: November 2015

ACE/PONSI was initiated in 1974 on the recommendation of the Camegie Commission on Nontraditional Study that the American Council on Education's system of evaluating formal courses offered by the armed services be extended to civilian organizations. The criteria and procedures that the American Council on Education (ACE) has used since 1945 to evaluate military courses were adapted by ACE/PONSI. The purpose of ACE/PONSI at the national and state levels is to help people obtain academic credit for learning acquired outside the sponsorship of colleges and universities.
Explaining Patterns of Victimization Within A Rural County of England
Authors: Mawby Rob I. , Jones Carol
Published: November 2015

This article reports on victim surveys carried out in a rural county of England, using a postal questionnaire. Surveys in rural areas are uncommon, but many patterns of risk that were identified here were found to be similar to those identified in national and urban surveys. This suggests both that postal surveys provide a valid measure of variations in risk and that similar explanations for variations in risk apply. Routine activity theory is used to explain the patterns identified. Although the impact of residential location was seen to be less important in the rural context than studies in urban areas have indicated, the question of where people spent their time, including the town or city that they frequented, was significant in predicting victimization. The relationship between location and risk thus appears to be stronger in terms of where people spend their time outside the home than in terms of where they live.
Lay Participation In Spain
Authors: Jimeno-Bulnes Mar
Published: November 2015

Although the judicial administration in Spain is erected on the basis of the professional judge, Spanish law also provides for a degree of lay participation through three institutions: the office of Justice of the Peace, the right of “popular action,” and what is basically the jury system, which will form the subject of this article. The jury system in Spain is stipulated in the Spanish Constitution and is currently regulated by the Organic Law of May 1995, but it is not the first time that trial by jury has existed in Spanish criminal proceedings. This article examines some historical precedents of the various Spanish jury systems as well as the constitutional and legal regulation of the present system. A number of elements of Spanish law and the jury system are subsequently analyzed, and concluding remarks are offered.
Comparison of Foot Pronation and Lower Extremity Rotation in Persons With and Without Patellofemoral Pain
Authors: Powers Christopher M. , Chen Pon-Yo , Reischl Stephen F. , Perry Jaquelin
Published: November 2015

Abnormal foot pronation and subsequent rotation of the lower extremity has been hypothesized as being contributory to patellofemoral pain (PFP). The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that subjects with PFP would exhibit larger degrees of foot pronation, tibia internal rotation, and femoral internal rotation compared to individuals without PFP. Twenty-four female subjects with a diagnosis of PFP and 17 female subjects without PFP participated. Three-dimensional kinematics of the foot, tibia, and femur segments were recorded during self-selected free-walking trials using a six-camera motion analysis system (VICON). No group differences were found with respect to the magnitude and timing of peak foot pronation and tibia rotation. However, the PFP group demonstrated significantly less femur internal rotation compared the comparison group. These results do not support the hypothesis that individuals with PFP demonstrate excessive foot pronation or tibial internal rotation compared to nonpainful individuals. The finding of decreased internal rotation in the PFP group suggests that this motion may be a compensatory strategy to reduce the quadriceps angle.
The Reliability of a New Device Designed to Assess Gastrocnemius Contracture
Authors: Greisberg Justin , Drake John , Crisco Joseph , DiGiovanni Christopher
Published: November 2015

Gastrocnemius contracture may be a significant cause of many foot disorders. Gastrocnemius tension can be estimated clinically by measuring maximum ankle dorsiflexion during full knee extension. Such measurements, when made with currently available goniometric devices, are subject to high levels of intra- and inter-observer variability. We have designed a device to more consistently measure ankle dorsiflexion, using three dimensional tracking sensors on the leg and foot. The applied dorsiflexion torque is kept constant by a computer, and the computer also monitors hindfoot position to maintain a neutrally aligned foot during testing. Repeated measurements on 26 feet were taken to determine the consistency of the device. The correlation coefficient for the measurements was 0.96, indicating very low intra- observer variability. The standard deviation of the repeated measures was 2°. Based on the 95% confidence interval, the device can be considered accurate to within 4°. Given this accuracy, this instrument could be used to assess gastrocnemius tension, its role in foot pathology, and the effectiveness of surgical lengthening. Compared to other currently available measuring devices, this instrument is the most reliable in estimating ankle dorsiflexion, since it is capable of controlling hindfoot position and applied dorsiflexion torque, and it can be easily constructed by other laboratories.
Intra- and Inter-observer Reliability of the Distal Metatarsal Articular Angle in Adult Hallux Valgus
Authors: Chi Thomas D. , Davitt James , Younger Alastair , Holt Sarah , Sangeorzan Bruce J.
Published: November 2015

There is some uncertainty as to whether the distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA) is a real entity or just radiographic artifact and whether it can be reliably measured. If it is intrinsic to the bone, it should not change with bone position. If it is clinically useful, it should be reproducible. Pre-operative and post-operative radiographs of 32 patients undergoing a proximal bony procedure of the first ray were evaluated independently by three foot and ankle specialists in order to determine the intra and inter-observer reliability of the distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA). In addition, the hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA) and joint congruency/subluxation were determined. We used ANOVA (Scheffe's F-test) to determine reliability of the angular measurements; a p value of less than 0.05 indicates poor reliability and a p value of greater than 0.05 indicates reliability. Intra-observer reliability was good for all angular measurements (HVA, IMA, DMAA pre-op, and DMAA postop) with p values ranging from 0.33 to 0.95. Inter-observer reliability of the HVA and IMA was good (p = 0.63 and p = 0.32). Inter-observer reliability of the pre-op DMAA approached statistically poor reliability (p = 0.09) and the post-op DMAA reliability was poor (p = 0.002).

The DMAA reduced after the proximal procedure as measured by all observers, and averaged a reduction of 3.9°. Weighted kappa analysis also revealed that there was poor agreement in the determination of congruency and subluxation (Kappa statistic ranged from 0.07 to 0.19). This study suggests that there may be limited value in the DMAA as a clinical measure as it varies with examiner and with the hallux valgus angle.
Continuous Lateral Sciatic Blocks for Acute Postoperative Pain Management after Major Ankle and Foot Surgery
Authors: Chelly Jacques E. , Greger Jennifer , Casati Andrea , Al-Samsam Tameem , McGarvey William , Clanton Thomas
Published: November 2015

We developed a continuous lateral sciatic nerve infusion technique for postoperative analgesia.

Methods: A 10-cm insulated Tuohy needle connected to a nerve stimulator was introduced posteriorly between the biceps femoris and vastus lateralis groove 10 cm cephalad from the tip of the patella. After proper positioning of the insulated needle, a 20-gauge catheter was placed in proximity to the sciatic nerve.

Results: Continuous lateral sciatic infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine was associated with a significant reduction of morphine consumption by 29% and 62% during postoperative days one and two, respectively, in patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation of the ankle.

Conclusion: Continuous lateral sciatic infusion of 0.2% ropivacaine represents an alternative for acute postoperative pain control after major ankle and foot surgery.
Severe Lisfrancs Injuries: Primary Arthrodesis or ORIF?
Authors: Mulier Thomas , Reynders Piet , Dereymaeker Greta , Broos Paul
Published: November 2015

Twenty-eight patients, with severe, acute Lisfranc dislocations, requiring operative intervention, were treated between 1989 and 1992 in a level one Trauma Center. Different treatment protocols were used by the two senior staff surgeons. This allowed ORIF to be compared to complete arthrodesis and partial arthrodesis. Twelve patients were treated with primary arthrodesis after open reduction of the dislocation. Partial (5) or complete arthrodesis (6) (depending on the type of fracture) was performed in these 12 patients. Sixteen patients were treated with open reduction and temporary fixation with stabilization and compression screw fixation (ORIF group). The subgroups were identical in age (mean 30.5 years), follow-up (30.1 months), type of fracture, type of injury and time to intervention.

Anatomical reduction was achieved in eight of the 12 patients in the arthrodesis groups and in 12 of the 16 patients in the ORIF group. The Baltimore Painful foot Score (PFS) was higher in the ORIF group then in the complete arthrodesis group meaning the ORIF group had less pain. No difference in the PFS was found between the ORIF group and the partial arthrodesis group. Subsequent revision surgery was necessary in two cases in the arthrodesis groups and two cases in the ORIF group. Stiffness of the forefoot, loss of metatarsal arch, and sympathetic dystrophy occurred more frequently in the complete arthrodesis group. Open reduction and internal fixation with screws or partial arthrodesis is the treatment of choice in severe tarsometatarsal fracture dislocations. Primary complete arthrodesis should be reserved as a salvage procedure.
The Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Hindfoot Fusions
Authors: Ishikawa Susan N. , Murphy G. Andrew , Richardson E. Greer
Published: November 2015

In a group of 160 patients who had hindfoot fusions (isolated subtalar, talonavicular, and calcaneocuboid fusions and double and triple arthrodeses), smokers had a significantly higher rate of nonunion than did nonsmokers (18.6% vs. 7.1%). The relative risk of developing a nonunion was 2.7 times higher for smokers than nonsmokers. With the numbers available, there was a trend for patients who had quit smoking prior to surgery to have a higher rate of nonunion (11.1%) than patients who had never smoked, but not as high as those who continued to smoke. There was no statistical difference in the rate of infection or delayed wound healing among the groups.
The Role of Pulsatile Cold Compression in Edema Resolution Following Ankle Fractures: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Mora Steve , Zalavras Charalampos G. , Wang Lingjun , Thordarson David B.
Published: November 2015

Twenty-four patients with displaced ankle fractures awaiting surgery were randomized to a study (n = 11) or a control group (n = 13). In the study group, patients had a pulsatile cold compression (PCC) device applied to their ankle, and remained at bed rest with the extremity elevated while awaiting surgery. In the control group patients remained in a posterior molded splint instead of the PCC device. Baseline circumferential measurements of the ankle were obtained, followed by measurements at 24-hour increments to evaluate edema resolution. In addition, patient satisfaction with use of the PCC device was evaluated with a scale ranging from 1 to 4. The median decrease of circumference in the study group compared to the control group was 0.5 cm vs. 0.1 cm at 24 hours (p=0.005), 0.9 cm vs. 0.4 cm at 48 hours (p<0.001), and 1.2 cm vs. 0.5 cm at 72 hours (p=0.009). The ratio of the decrease in circumference relative to the circumference of the normal ankle was significantly higher in the PCC group compared to the control group at all time points. All patients in the PCC group were satisfied with the device (median satisfaction score = 4). The PCC device was well tolerated and resulted in a significantly greater reduction of ankle circumference at 24, 48, and 72 hours after its application, compared to splinting and elevation alone. The PCC device facilitates edema resolution following ankle fractures.
Foot and Ankle Experience in Orthopaedic Residency
Authors: Pinzur Michael S. , Mikolyzk David , Aronow Michael S. , DiGiovanni Benedict F. , Mizel Mark S. , Pinney Stephen J. , Saltzman Charles L. , Temple H. Thomas
Published: November 2015

Background:

Dedicated orthopaedic residency training in the musculoskeletal discipline of foot and ankle is an important contribution to the development of a well-rounded orthopaedic surgeon. Current residency training guidelines are vague and do not require specific experience or proficiency in this discipline.

Methods:

A one-page questionnaire on commitment to foot and ankle education in American Orthopaedic Surgery residency training programs was completed by all 148 program directors.

Results:

Eighty of the programs (54.1%) had a single faculty member dedicated to foot and ankle orthopaedics, while 21 (14.2%) did not have a faculty member with a specific interest or commitment to problems related to the foot and ankle. Fifteen programs (10.1%) did not have a committed faculty member, nor did their residents have a clinical rotation dedicated to foot and ankle. Ninety-six programs (64.9%) had at least one clinical rotation dedicated to foot and ankle. Fifty-two (35.1%) did not. Thirty-three (34.7%) of those programs with a dedicated foot and ankle experience assigned residents during at least two periods of their training. Of those programs with a single foot-specific rotation, the most common year for training was in the PGY3 year (27 of 63, 42.9%). Of the 60 months' duration of most orthopaedic residency programs, 39 of 96 (40.6%) programs with a dedicated clinical foot and ankle rotation allocated an average of 12 weeks to foot and ankle. Twenty-six (27.1%) allocated less than 3 total months, and 31 (32.3%) allocated 16 to 24 weeks of dedicated foot and ankle experience.

Conclusions:

Current residency training in the United States does not universally require a commitment to foot and ankle education. A large number of residency programs do not have a faculty member committed to foot and ankle education, and almost one-third have no time specifically allocated to foot and ankle education.
Safety of Total Contact Casting in High-Risk Patients with Neuropathic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Wukich Dane K. , Motko John
Published: November 2015

Background: Total contact casting (TCC) is effective in offloading the plantar aspect of the foot in patients with diabetes and neuropathic ulcers. These patients are considered at high risk for skin-related complications during TCC because of sensory neuropathy. The purpose of this prospective study was to determine the frequency of complications during treatment of neuropathic ulcers with TCC. Methods: Thirteen patients with 18 neuropathic ulcers were treated with TCC. The same orthopaedic surgeon applied a consecutive series of 82 total contact casts. The initial cast was changed in 3 to 4 days, while subsequent casts were changed weekly. Results: Fourteen complications occurred during the 82 castings (17%). None of the complications required alteration in the treatment protocol. Thirteen of the 14 complications involved skin irritation and the other complication was from a cast that became too tight. Fifteen of the 18 neuropathic ulcers healed with TCC. Conclusions: TCC can be used safely in high-risk patients with neuropathic problems, but minor complications should be anticipated. Major complications that interfere with the treatment of the plantar ulcer can be minimized with careful technique, close follow-up, and thorough patient education.
Plantarflexion Opening Wedge Medial Cuneiform Osteotomy for Correction of Fixed Forefoot Varus Associated with Flatfoot Deformity
Authors: Hirose Christopher B. , Johnson Jeffrey E.
Published: November 2015

Background: Flatfoot presents as a wide spectrum of foot deformities that include varying degrees of hindfoot valgus, forefoot abduction, and forefoot varus. Medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy, lateral column lengthening, and subtalar fusion can correct heel valgus, but may not adequately correct the fixed forefoot varus component. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of plantarflexion opening wedge medial cuneiform (Cotton) osteotomy in the correction of forefoot varus. Methods: Sixteen feet (15 patients) had plantarflexion opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomies to correct forefoot varus associated with flatfoot deformities from several etiologies, including congenital flatfoot (six feet, average age 37 years), tarsal coalition (five feet, average age 15 years), overcorrected clubfoot deformity (two feet, ages 17 years and 18 years), skewfoot (one foot, age 15 years), chronic posterior tibial tendon insufficiency (one foot, 41 years), and rheumatoid arthritis (one foot, age 56 years). Results: Standing radiographs showed an average improvement in the anterior-posterior talo-first metatarsal angle of 7 degrees (9 degrees preoperative, 2 degrees postoperative). The talonavicular coverage angle improved an average of 15 degrees (20 degrees preoperative, 5 degrees postoperative). The lateral talo-first metatarsal angle improved an average of 14 degrees (−13 degrees preoperative, 1 degree postoperative). Correcting for radiographic magnification, the distance from the mid-medial cuneiform to the floor on the lateral radiograph averaged 40 mm preoperatively and 47 mm postoperatively (average improvement 7 mm). All patients at followup described mild to no pain with ambulation. There were no nonunions or malunions. Conclusions: Opening wedge medial cuneiform osteotomy is an important adjunctive procedure to correct the forefoot varus component of a flatfoot deformity. Advantages of this technique in comparison to first tarsometatarsal arthrodesis include predictable union, preservation of first ray mobility, and the ability to easily vary the amount of correction. Because of the variety of hindfoot procedures done in these patients, the degree of hindfoot correction contributed by the cuneiform osteotomy alone could not be determined. We have had excellent results without major complications using this technique.
Lisfranc Fracture-dislocation in Patients with Multiple Trauma: Diagnosis with Multidetector Computed Tomography
Authors: Haapamaki Ville , Kiuru Martti , Koskinen Seppo
Published: November 2015

Background: We assessed acute phase multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) findings of Lisfranc fracture-dislocations in patients with multiple trauma referred to a Level I trauma center over a 29-month period. Methods: Two hundred and eighty two patients (208 male and 74 female) between the ages of 13 and 89 (mean 42) years had, at the request of emergency room physicians, MDCT of the foot and ankle after acute injury. Results: A total of 21 Lisfranc fracture-dislocations were found in 19 (7%) patients. Two main injury mechanisms were established: falling from high places in 10 injuries (48%) and traffic accidents in five (24%). Primary radiographs were available in 17 (81%) feet, and four (24%) had false negative radiographic results when compared to MDCT. In all Lisfranc fracture-dislocations MDCT showed the joint anatomy and the extent of dislocation better than primary radiographs, and in six (46%) of 13 true positive primary radiographs, MDCT revealed additional occult fractures in the Lisfranc joint. Multidetector CT revealed additional occult fractures in other parts of the foot and ankle in six (35%) of 17 feet. Conclusions: Standard radiography remains a primary diagnostic modality in acute foot and ankle trauma. Multidetector CT with high-quality multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) is recommended as a complementary examination in high-energy injury in patients with multiple trauma or in patients in whom radiographic images are equivocal. This may reveal Lisfranc fracture-dislocations, show the extent of the fracture-dislocation, and reveal occult fractures in other parts of the foot and ankle.
Personal Gait Satisfaction After Displaced Intraarticular Calcaneal Fractures: A 2-8 Year FollowUp
Authors: O'Brien Jason , Buckley Richard , McCormack Robert , Pate Graham , Leighton Ross , Petrie Dave , Galpin Robert
Published: November 2015

Background: Patients' satisfaction with gait after calcaneal fracture has rarely been studied. The objective of this paper was to determine how patient demographics, fracture type and treatment affected gait satisfaction after displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures. The design of the study is a prospective randomized trial performed in four Level I trauma centers. Methods: Three hundred and nineteen patients with 351 radiographically proven displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures (DIACF) were randomly assigned to open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), or nonoperative treatment. A 2- to 8-year followup was obtained, with patients completing SF-36 and a validated visual analogue scale to assess personal gait satisfaction. The final joint positions were confirmed using plain radiographs and CT scans for both treatment arms. Examination using a one-way analysis-of-variance was performed to determine if statistical differences existed in personal gait satisfaction between the treatment arms. Results: Personal gait satisfaction scores were not significantly different between those DIACF treated with ORIF and those treated nonoperatively at 2- to 8-year follow-up. In patients treated with ORIF, improved personal gait scores were reported in those who were younger than 30 years of age, were non-WCB, had jobs requiring a moderate work-load before injury, and had Böhler angles restored to above 0 degrees. Factors not found to be significant in gait satisfaction included unilateral or bilateral calcaneal fractures, quality of initial reduction, and sex of the patient. Conclusions: Subcategories determined that younger patients who were self-employed and treated operatively had improved gait scores. Treatment (operative or nonoperative) of calcaneal fractures did not affect gait satisfaction according to patient outcome scores.
Exploring Stimulus-Response Compatibility with Words and Pictures
Authors: Smith Sidney L.
Published: November 2015

A group of 92 male engineers and a comparison group of 80 women responded to an 18-item questionnaire, covering various problems of potentially ambiguous display-control relations, labeling and word usage. Some questions elicit strong commonality of response. Others illustrate response variability and group differences. Developed as a teaching aid, this questionnaire also shows some promise as a research tool.
Using Item Response Theory to Develop Measures of Acquisitive and Protective Self-Monitoring From the Original Self-Monitoring Scale
Authors: Wilmot Michael P. , Kostal Jack W. , Stillwell David , Kosinski Michal
Published: November 2015

For the past 40 years, the conventional univariate model of self-monitoring has reigned as the dominant interpretative paradigm in the literature. However, recent findings associated with an alternative bivariate model challenge the conventional paradigm. In this study, item response theory is used to develop measures of the bivariate model of acquisitive and protective self-monitoring using original Self-Monitoring Scale (SMS) items, and data from two large, nonstudent samples ( Ns = 13,563 and 709). Results indicate that the new acquisitive (six-item) and protective (seven-item) self-monitoring scales are reliable, unbiased in terms of gender and age, and demonstrate theoretically consistent relations to measures of personality traits and cognitive ability. Additionally, by virtue of using original SMS items, previously collected responses can be reanalyzed in accordance with the alternative bivariate model. Recommendations for the reanalysis of archival SMS data, as well as directions for future research, are provided.
Functional Brain Imaging, Limbic Function, and Affective Disorders
Authors: Ketter Terence A. , George Mark S. , Kimbrell Tim A. , Benson Brenda E. , Post Robert M.
Published: November 2015

For more than a century, mesial cerebral structures have been candidate substrates for the mediation of emotional experience. Although limbic structures were originally conceived as forming a midline ring, emerging evidence suggests that emotional processes may be related more closely to anterior paralimbic (anterior limbic and nearby cortical) regions than to posterior limbic regions. In addition, basal ganglia-thalamocortical circuits for various cerebral processes have been proposed, including one involving anterior paralimbic structures thought to mediate emotion. Recent brain imaging studies have advanced this thesis by demonstrating anterior paralimbic activation during affective arousal in healthy volunteers. The overwhelming majority of functional imaging studies of both primary and secondary depression has demonstrated decreased anterior paralimbic and prefrontal cortical activity, the latter of which often correlated with severity of depression and resolved with symptom remission. A few studies have noted increased activity in these same regions, which may reflect heterogeneity due to particular illness subtypes. Preliminary evidence has suggested that baseline functional abnormalities in these structures may relate to diagnostic subtypes and provide differential markers of therapeutic responses. New imaging methods with greater sensitivity, spatial and temporal resolution, and biochemical specificity promise to fuel further insights into the neurobiology of normal emotion in health, subtypes of affective disorders, and perhaps even improved targeting of therapeutic interventions.
Brain Macromolecules: In Vivo Measurement by Proton Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Graham Glenn D.
Published: November 2015

New single- and multiple-volume in vivo proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques detect signals from brain macromolecules and can separate them from overlapping small molecule resonances. In vitro and animal studies have identified these resonances as arising from cytosolic proteins and mobile lipids. Increased macromolecule signals from lipids have been detected in both subacute stroke and in active multiple sclerosis plaques that reflect tissue breakdown and, in conjunction with elevated lactate, can be used to monitor phagocytic cell activity. The ability to follow changes in brain lipids and proteins should help to elucidate biochemical abnormalities accompanying a variety of pathological conditions.
The Physiological Basis of Executive Function and Working Memory
Authors: D'Esposito Mark , Grossman Murray
Published: November 2015

The term “executive function” has been used to capture the highest order of cognitive abilities, including the planning, flexibility, organization and regulation necessary for the execution of an appropriate behavior. Executive function, although an elusive cognitive domain, may be highly dependent on working memory, which refers to the temporary storage and manipulation of information. The physiology of working memory is beginning to be mapped in both monkey and human studies at the neuroanatomical and neurochemical levels. Working memory is likely subserved by a distributed network of brain regions in which the prefrontal cortex is critical, subserving the process of maintaining representations across time. There is also a relationship between dopaminergic projections in the brain and working memory. Improved understanding of the physiological basis of executive functioning and working memory will provide a narrower view of prefrontal cortical function and may lead to new therapies in patients with cognitive dysfunction.
Plasticity and the Human Brain: Insights from Functional Imaging
Authors: Frackowiak Richard S.J.
Published: November 2015

This article begins with a definition of cerebral plasticity in human brain that rests on the concept of a long-term alteration in patterns of task- or behavior-related activity in distributed brain systems. The theme is then developed to show how such a concept and the mechanisms it implies can be investigated and mapped using modern noninvasive functional imaging techniques. The human experimental literature is critically presented in relation to normal behavior, especially in relation to the acquisition of motor skills and learning. A discussion of the functional reorganization that follows brain injury and that is associated with spontaneous recovery from motor and perceptual deficits is then presented from the perspective of understanding the brain mechanisms at the level of large-scale neuronal populations.
The Extracellular Space in the CNS: Its Regulation, Volume and Geometry in Normal and Pathological Neuronal Function
Authors: Syková Eva
Published: November 2015

Changes in extracellular space (ECS) composition and geometry are a consequence of neuronal activity and of glial K+, pH, and amino acids homeostasis. They accompany the phenomena of repetitive neuronal activity and also occur as a result of seizures, anoxia, injury, and many other pathological states in the CNS, and they may significantly affect signal transmission in the CNS. Activity-related, or CNS damage-related ionic changes and release of amino acids result in fast, pulsatile, and long-term cellular (particularly glial) swelling. Cellular swelling is compensated for by ECS volume shrinkage and by a decrease in the apparent diffusion coefficients of neuroactive substances diffusing in the ECS. Movement of substances is hindered in the narrower clefts, but presumably also because of the crowding of molecules of the ECS matrix and/or by the swelling of the fine glial processes that form diffusional barriers. This can either increase efficacy of synaptic and nonsynaptic transmission by greater accumulation of substances or induce damage to nerve cells if these substances reach toxic concentrations.
Neural Networks and Motor Control
Authors: Georgopoulos Apostolus P.
Published: November 2015

Motor control is accomplished by the cooperative interaction of many brain networks, among which the motor cortex holds a central place. This article reviews some of the structural and functional properties of neurons of the motor cortical network, some principles of connectivity with other motor networks, the handling of spatial information regarding reaching movements, and some ideas on how motor cortical commands could be translated to muscle activations by spinal motor networks. Finally, I review recent neural network modeling studies of motor cortical ensemble operations.
The Pathobiology of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Gennarelli Thomas A.
Published: November 2015

The recent appreciation that traumatic brain injury is a dynamic process, initiated at the time of injury but not concluded for hours to days afterward, has resulted in the expectation that treatments can be designed to interrupt the processes that result in delayed cellular dysfunction and, thus, can decrease the amount of traumatic brain damage. Thus, for the first time, treatments specific for brain damage are envisioned. These can provide a fundamentally different approach to the treatment of the damaged brain than currently used treatments that deal with epiphenomena of traumatic injury, such as increased intracranial pressure or secondary ischemia. The processes that result in delayed cellular damage may be initiated by transient ionic fluxes induced by traumatic, temporary holes in the cell membrane lipid bilayer (mechanoporation). Resulting changes in intracellular ionic composition, if uncorrected, result in 1) traumatic depolarization with resultant neurotransmitter release, postsynaptic receptor dysfunction, and excitability changes; 2) calcium-mediated activation of proteases and phospholipases, with resultant cytoskeletal protein dissolution and free radical-induced lipid peroxidation; 3) inflammatory processes that elicit tissue-damaging cytokines; and 4) immediate and delayed activation of numerous genes with a resultant production of a panoply of new proteins. The future challenge to neurotrauma investigators is to better understand these processes and to develop interventions that will halt them before permanent brain damage occurs.
Computational Dynamics in Rhythmic Neural Circuits
Authors: Marder Eve
Published: November 2015

Circuit dynamics are an outcome of the constant interplay between the intrinsic properties of neurons and the strengths of the synaptic connections among them. Examples from the small networks that generate the rhythms of the crustacean stomatogastric ganglion are used to illustrate general features of the different time scales over which both synaptic and intrinsic properties are altered by circuit activity and neuromodulation. These demonstrate that neither intrinsic membrane properties nor synaptic strengths should be considered fixed parameters; rather, they are dynamic variables with time scales that range from milliseconds to days. NEUROSCIENTIST 3:295–302, 1997
The Neurobiological Basis of Anxiety and Fear: Circuits, Mechanisms, and Neurochemical Interactions (Part II)
Authors: Charney Dennis S. , Grillon Christian C. G. , Bremner J. Douglas
Published: November 2015

This article is Part II of a review of the neuronal circuits, neural mechanisms, and neuromodulators that seem to be involved in anxiety and fear states. Part I focused on the specific brain structures, including the roles of the amygdala, locus coeruleus, hippocampus, and various cortical regions and the neural mechanisms of fear conditioning, extinction, and behavioral sensitization in mediating the signs and symptoms of anxiety and fear. Part II attempts to develop a better understanding of neurochemical mediation of traumatic remembrance and the neurobiological consequences of stress, particularly when experienced early in life. Finally, the data is synthesized to provide a basis for understanding the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders, such as Panic disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. NEUROSCIENTIST 4:122–132, 1998