bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Hand Immersion Duration on Manual Performance
Authors: Ray Matthew , Sanli Elizabeth , Brown Robert , Ennis Kerri Ann , Carnahan Heather 
Published: March 2017

Objective: To investigate the effect of hand immersion duration on manipulative ability and tactile sensitivity. Background: Individuals in maritime settings often work with hands that have been immersed in water. Although research has shown that hand immersion duration differentially impacts skin adhesion and tactile sensitivity, the effect of hand immersion on manipulative ability has not been directly tested. Given how critical manipulative ability is for the safety and performance of those working at sea, the effect of hand immersion duration on manual performance was investigated. Method: Tests of manipulative ability (Purdue Pegboard, Grooved Pegboard, reef knot untying) and tactile sensitivity (Touch-Test) were completed following no-exposure, short-exposure, and long-exposure hand immersions in thermoneutral water. Results: Compared to the no immersion condition, the Purdue Pegboard performance was reduced in both immersion conditions (short exposure, –11%; long exposure, –8%). A performance decrement was only observed in the short exposure condition (+15% in time to complete task) for the reef knot untying task. There were no statistical differences in the Grooved Pegboard or Touch-Test scores between exposure conditions. Conclusion: Immersing the hands in water decreases manipulative ability except for when object properties reduce the slipperiness between the hand and object. Application: Manual performance in a wet environment may be conserved by designing tools and objects with edges and textures that can offset the slipperiness of wet hands. To maintain safety, the time requirements for working with wet hands needs to be considered.
Thyroid Surgery in a Resource‐Limited Setting: Feasibility and Analysis of Short‐ and Long‐term Outcomes
Authors: Jafari Aria , Campbell David , Campbell Bruce H. , Ngoitsi Henry Nono , Sisenda Titus M. , Denge Makaya , James Benjamin C. , Cordes Susan R. 
Published: March 2017

ObjectiveThe present study reviews a series of patients who underwent thyroid surgery in Eldoret, Kenya, to demonstrate the feasibility of conducting long‐term (>1 year) outcomes research in a resource‐limited setting, impact on the quality of life of the recipient population, and inform future humanitarian collaborations.Study DesignCase series with chart review.SettingTertiary public referral hospital in Eldoret, Kenya.Subjects and MethodsTwenty‐one patients were enrolled during the study period. A retrospective chart review was performed for all adult patients who underwent thyroid surgery during humanitarian trips (2010‐2015). Patients were contacted by mobile telephone. Medical history and physical examination, including laryngoscopy, were performed, and the SF‐36 was administered (a quality‐of‐life questionnaire). Laboratory measurements of thyroid function and neck ultrasound were obtained.ResultsThe mean follow‐up was 33.6 ± 20.2 months after surgery: 37.5% of subtotal thyroidectomy patients and 15.4% of lobectomy patients were hypothyroid postoperatively according to serologic studies. There were no cases of goiter recurrence or malignancy. All patients reported postoperative symptomatic improvement and collectively showed positive pre‐ and postoperative score differences on the SF‐36.ConclusionAlthough limited by a small sample size and the retrospective nature, our study demonstrates the feasibility of long‐term surgical and quality‐of‐life outcomes research in a resource‐limited setting. The low complication rates suggest minimal adverse effects of performing surgery in this context. Despite a considerable rate of postoperative hypothyroidism, it is in accordance with prior studies and emphasizes the need for individualized, longitudinal, and multidisciplinary care. Quality‐of‐life score improvements suggest benefit to the recipient population.
Population survey of attitudes and beliefs regarding organic, genetically modified, and irradiated foods
Authors: Gwira Baumblatt Jane A , Carpenter L Rand , Wiedeman Caleb , Dunn John R , Schaffner William , Jones Timothy F 
Published: March 2017

Background: Sales of organic foods are increasing due to public demand, while genetically modified (GM) and irradiated foods are often viewed with suspicion. Aim: The aim of this research was to examine consumer attitudes toward organic, GM and irradiated foods to direct educational efforts regarding their consumption Methods: A telephone survey of 1838 residents in Tennessee, USA was conducted regarding organic, GM, and irradiated foods. Results: Approximately half of respondents (50.4%) purchased organic food during the previous 6 months (‘consumers’). The most common beliefs about organic foods by consumers were higher cost (92%), and fewer pesticides (89%). Consumers were more likely than non-consumers to believe organic food tasted better (prevalence ratio 3.6; 95% confidence interval 3.02–4.23). A minority of respondents were familiar with GM foods (33%) and irradiated foods (22%). Conclusion: Organic food consumption is common in Tennessee, but knowledge about GM and irradiated foods is less common. Consumer health education should emphasize the benefits of these food options, and the safety of GM and irradiated foods.
Groin Problems in Male Soccer Players Are More Common Than Previously Reported
Authors: Harøy Joar , Clarsen Ben , Thorborg Kristian , Hölmich Per , Bahr Roald , Andersen Thor Einar 
Published: March 2017

Background: The majority of surveillance studies in soccer have used a time-loss injury definition, and many groin problems result from overuse, leading to gradually increasing pain and/or reduced performance without necessarily causing an absence from soccer training or match play. Thus, the magnitude of groin problems in soccer has probably been underestimated in previous studies based on traditional injury surveillance methods. Purpose: To investigate the prevalence of groin problems among soccer players of both sexes and among male soccer players at different levels of play through a new surveillance method developed to capture acute and overuse problems. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: We registered groin problems during a 6-week period of match congestion using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire. A total of 240 players from 15 teams across different levels of play and from both sexes were included, and they responded to the weekly questionnaire. We calculated the average weekly prevalence of all groin problems and substantial groin problems. Results: Of the 240 players, 112 male players (59%) and 20 female players (45%) reported at least 1 episode of groin problems. The average weekly prevalence of any groin problem and substantial groin problem for all male players was 29% (range, 23%-32% across different levels) and 10% (7%-13%), respectively. Elite male players had an increased risk of experiencing groin problems (odds ratio: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5-6.4, P = .03) compared with elite female players. There was no difference in the risk of experiencing groin problems among elite, subelite, and amateur male players. For substantial problems, there was no difference between elite male and elite female players or among levels of play for senior male soccer players. Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of groin problems among male soccer players during a period with match congestion. Time-loss definition as used in previous injury surveillance studies captured only one-third of the male groin problems registered with the new method. Elite male players had 3 times’ higher risk of reporting groin problems as compared with elite female players, while playing level did not influence the risk of reporting a groin problem among males.
Clinical Assessment of the Dynamic Labral Shear Test for Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior Lesions
Authors: Sodha Sonal , Srikumaran Uma , Choi Kyubo , Borade Amrut U. , McFarland Edward G. 
Published: March 2017

Background: Diagnosing superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesions through physical examination remains challenging. The dynamic labral shear test (DLST) has been shown to have likelihood ratios (LRs) of 31.6 and 1.1 for diagnosing SLAP lesions. Purpose: To determine the clinical utility of the DLST for diagnosing SLAP lesions. Study Design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2. Methods: This prospective, consecutive case series included 774 patients who underwent diagnostic arthroscopy and a preoperative DLST between 2007 and 2013. Patients were divided into 3 groups: 610 control patients with no SLAP lesion but with other abnormalities, 9 patients with isolated SLAP lesion (ISL), and 155 patients with concomitant SLAP lesion (CSL), who had a SLAP lesion and another shoulder abnormality. We determined sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), odds ratio (OR), and diagnostic accuracy (DA) of the DLST with and without other tests. Results: The DLST was positive for 242 of 610 controls (40%), 7 of 9 patients (78%) in the ISL group, and 88 of 155 patients (57%) in the CSL group. In the ISL group, the DLST had a sensitivity of 78%, specificity of 51%, PPV of 2%, NPV of 100%, OR of 3.58, and DA of 51%. In comparison, the ORs were 1.09 for the active compression test, 1.30 for the lift-off test, and 1.53 for the relocation test, which were not significantly different from each other. For diagnosing a SLAP lesion existing in a joint with other associated injury, the DLST had a sensitivity of 57%, specificity of 52%, PPV of 23%, NPV of 83%, OR of 1.4, and DA of 53%. Combining all 4 tests did not improve the OR for detecting ISLs or CSLs. Conclusion: The DLST is sensitive but not specific for detecting ISLs. With an OR of 3.58, the DLST is useful for diagnosing ISLs. However, in patients who have CSLs, the DLST is not as useful for diagnosing SLAP lesions.
Arthroscopic Repair of Anterosuperior Massive Rotator Cuff Tears: Does Repair Integrity Affect Outcomes?
Authors: Kim Sung-Jae , Choi Yun-Rak , Jung Min , Lee Wonyong , Chun Yong-Min 
Published: March 2017

Background:The purpose of this study was to investigate clinical outcomes and structural integrity after arthroscopic repair of anterosuperior massive rotator cuff tears (RCTs) and to compare clinical outcomes between healed and retear groups.Hypothesis:The authors hypothesized that although both groups would exhibit improved clinical outcomes compared with their preoperative status, the healed group would have better clinical outcomes than the retear group, and in the retear group, the subscapularis retear subgroup would have inferior outcomes compared with the intact subscapularis repair subgroup.Study Design:Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:This study included 73 of 90 eligible patients who underwent arthroscopic repair of an anterosuperior massive RCT. Functional outcomes after 2-year follow-up were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, subjective shoulder value (SSV), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score, and active range of motion. Patients were assigned to the healed group (group H, n = 34) or retear group (group R, n = 39) based on magnetic resonance arthrography results at 6 months postoperatively. Group R was composed of subgroup R1 (subscapularis retear) and subgroup R2 (intact subscapularis repair).Results:Retearing occurred in 53% of patients. At 2-year follow-up, group H exhibited better outcomes for all functional scores versus group R, respectively ( P < .001): VAS pain score (1.0 vs 2.1), SSV (90.2 vs 77.4), ASES score (90.8 vs 76.6), and UCLA shoulder score (31.0 vs 24.9). Within both groups, all scores improved significantly compared with preoperative values ( P < .001). At follow-up, group H had significantly better forward flexion ( P = .018) and internal rotation ( P = .002) than group R; within both groups, active range of motion improved in all planes compared with the preoperative condition ( P < .001). Subgroup R1 exhibited inferior outcomes versus subgroup R2, respectively: VAS pain score (2.6 vs 1.5; P = .012), ASES score (70.9 vs 83.6; P = .013), SSV (70.9 vs 85.4; P = .005), and UCLA shoulder score (22.0 vs 28.5; P = .001).Conclusion:After arthroscopic repair of anterosuperior massive RCTs, 53% of patients exhibited retearing. The healed group had better functional outcomes than the retear group. The subscapularis retear subgroup exhibited significantly inferior outcomes compared with the intact subscapularis repair subgroup.
Impact of Bedside Tracheostomy on Procalcitonin Kinetics in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Sato Koji , Okajima Masaki , Noda Toru , Taniguchi Takumi 
Published: March 2017

Background: Critically ill patients are particularly vulnerable to invasive procedures and complications; however, tracheostomy is frequently performed in the intensive care unit (ICU). We analyzed the effects of tracheostomy on procalcitonin (PCT) kinetics and investigated whether PCT could reliably predict septic complications after tracheostomy. Methods: We retrospectively identified 134 patients who underwent bedside tracheostomy during their ICU stay at a Japanese university hospital from October 2010 to December 2015. We extracted PCT data from the day of the procedure (day 0) to postoperative day 2 and defined alert PCT as a PCT level ≥0.5 ng/mL, which had not decreased from the previous day. We divided patients into the following groups: nonevent, aseptic complication, and septic complication. Results: Twelve (9.2%) patients developed acute aseptic complications, and 12 (9.2%) patients developed septic complications. In the nonevent group, the PCT value decreased continuously in the initial PCT ≥ 0.5 ng/mL subgroup ( P < .001, P <.001 for trend). In contrast, significant changes were not observed in the initial PCT < 0.5 ng/mL subgroup. Significant differences and an upward trend in alert PCT incidence rate existed between the groups ( P < .001, P < .001 for trend): nonevent group, 5.5%; aseptic complication group, 41.7%; and septic complication group, 66.7%. In a multivariate linear regression model, septic complications were independently associated with PCT change at postoperative days 1 and 2 (adjusted β = 3.58, P < .001; adjusted β = 9.84, P < .001, respectively). Procalcitonin predicted septic complications more accurately than C-reactive protein, with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of 0.8 versus 0.63 ( P = .058) and 0.91 versus 0.69 ( P = .036) at postoperative days 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that PCT was not elevated after uncomplicated surgical tracheostomy in critically ill patients.
Ethical challenges experienced by clinical research nurses:: A qualitative study
Authors: Larkin Mary E , Beardslee Brian , Cagliero Enrico , Griffith Catherine A , Milaszewski Kerry , Mugford Marielle T , Myerson Joanna M , Ni Wen , Perry Donna J , Winkler Sabune , Witte Elizabeth R 
Published: March 2017

Background: Clinical investigation is a growing field employing increasing numbers of nurses. This has created a new specialty practice defined by aspects unique to nursing in a clinical research context: the objectives (to implement research protocols and advance science), setting (research facilities), and nature of the nurse–participant relationship. The clinical research nurse role may give rise to feelings of ethical conflict between aspects of protocol implementation and the duty of patient advocacy, a primary nursing responsibility. Little is known about whether research nurses experience unique ethical challenges distinct from those experienced by nurses in traditional patient-care settings. Research objectives: The purpose of the study was to describe the nature of ethical challenges experienced by clinical research nurses within the context of their practice. Research design: The study utilized a qualitative descriptive design with individual interviews. Participants and research context: Participating nurses (N = 12) self-identified as having experienced ethical challenges during screening. The majority were Caucasian (90%), female (83%), and worked in outpatient settings (67%). Approximately 50% had > 10 years of research experience. Ethical considerations: The human subjects review board approved the study. Written informed consent was obtained. Findings: Predominant themes were revealed: (1) the inability to provide a probable good, or/do no harm, and (2) dual obligations (identity as a nurse vs a research nurse). The following patterns and subthemes emerged: conflicted allegiances between protocol implementation, needs of the participant, desire to advance science, and tension between the nurse–patient therapeutic relationship versus the research relationship. Discussion: Participants described ethical challenges specific to the research role. The issues are central to the nurse–participant relationship, patient advocacy, the nurse’s role in implementing protocols, and/or advancing science. Conclusion: Ethical challenges related to the specialized role of clinical research nurses were identified. More research is warranted to fully understand their nature and frequency and to identify support systems for resolution.
Results of a metabolic health clinic at a hostel for homeless men
Authors: Nielssen Olav , Chudleigh Alan , Chen Mia , Large Matthew , Markovic Tania , Cooper Lucy 
Published: March 2017

Objectives: People who are homeless have high mortality and morbidity, including from metabolic disorder. The aim of this study was to report on the characteristics and progress of the metabolic health of people attending a metabolic clinic at a homeless men’s shelter. Methods: Homeless men attending the clinic were assessed by measuring their weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, blood lipids, fasting blood glucose and, if indicated, HbA1c. The sample characteristics of people who attended once (one-off clients) were compared to those who attended on more than one occasion (returning clients). Changes in health status were examined among returning clients by comparing baseline results to those at their last clinic visit. Results: Baseline data were recorded on a total of 136 men, of whom 126 had a consultation with a general practitioner and at least one blood test. The 136 clients had a median BMI of 27.4 kg/m2. Forty-three were obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2), 18 had class II obesity (BMI >35 kg/m2) and seven were underweight (BMI <20 kg/m2). Sixty-five had an intervention for either a newly diagnosed condition or a change to existing medical treatment. Seventy-six returning clients were seen on an average of 2.3 further occasions. Returning clients had significant improvements in measures of metabolic health. Conclusions: Homeless people in Sydney appear to be at a high risk of metabolic disease. The feasibility of a metabolic health clinic was demonstrated, and an encouraging improvement in some health indicators was found.
Where pseudo-hallucinations meet dissociation: a cluster analysis
Authors: Wearne Deborah , Curtis Guy J , Genetti Amanda , Samuel Mathew , Sebastian Justin 
Published: March 2017

Objectives:The possible link between cognitive areas of perception and integration of consciousness was examined using assessments of hallucinations and derealisation/depersonalization.Methods:Sixty-five subjects in three main diagnostic groups – posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), borderline personality disorder (BPD) and schizophrenia – identified by their treating psychiatrist as hearing voices were surveyed regarding characteristics of hallucinations, derealisation/depersonalization, delusions and childhood/adult trauma.Results:A cluster analysis produced two clusters predominantly determined by variables of hallucinations measures, childhood sexual abuse and derealisation/depersonalization scores.Conclusions:History of childhood trauma and variability in derealisation/depersonalization scores were better predictors of external, negative, uncontrollable voices than diagnosis of BPD or PTSD. The potential links between dissociative states and pseudo-hallucinations are discussed.
Digital flexor musculotendinous contracture in two Devon Rex cats
Authors: Thom Leonie K , Pool Roy R , Malik Richard 
Published: March 2017

Clinical summary: A 13-year-old, spayed Devon Rex with unilateral digital flexor musculotendinous contracture of the forelimb was treated by surgical tenotomy. The condition improved transiently, but recurred rapidly and became bilateral. Histopathologic analysis of necropsy tissues resulted in a morphologic diagnosis of fibromyositis of the antebrachial muscles causing contracture and flexural deformity of the carpi and phalanges of both thoracic limbs. A search for similar cases yielded the clinical notes of a second cat, a 10-year-old, spayed Devon Rex, also with bilateral disease. This second case responded well to surgical tenotomy but tissue biopsies were not obtained to permit microscopic assessment of the underlying pathologic process. Relevance and novel information: Acquired and permanent contracture of the digital flexor muscles and/or tendons of the forelimbs is a rare and poorly described condition of cats. The very limited number of documented cases describing disease affecting one or more digits (but not the carpus) infers a causal link with onychectomy, but reported histopathologic changes have been limited to the tendons. The two cases described in this report suffered contracture of the carpus and all digits bilaterally, one without previous onychectomy and the other 9 years after onychectomy. There were novel histopathologic findings in the muscles of the one case for which biopsy material was available. Information gained from these two cases provides a new perspective for the investigation and treatment of future cases. Specifically, consideration should be given to an underlying immune-mediated myopathic process and a possible genetic predisposition in the Devon Rex breed. Currently, the poorly understood etiopathogenesis hinders our ability to definitively recommend treatment options, which might include corticosteroids and other forms of immunosuppressive therapy.
Hearing disorders in cats: Classification, pathology and diagnosis
Authors: Strain George M 
Published: March 2017

Practical relevance: Auditory function is a sense that is central to life for cats - being important in situational awareness of potential predators, pursuit of prey, and for communication with conspecifics, humans and other species. Deafness in cats is most frequently the result of a genetic disorder, strongly associated with white fur and blue eyes, but may also result from acquired causes such as advancing age, ototoxic drugs, infection, environmental noise and physical trauma. Deafness can be sensorineural, where there is loss of cochlear hair cells, or conductive, where sound is muffled on its way to the inner ear. Clinical challenges: Establishing whether a cat is deaf can be difficult as behavioral testing of hearing is subjective and does not reliably detect unilateral deafness. Brainstem auditory evoked response testing is an objective measure but is limited in its availability. Currently, sensorineural deafness is irreversible because no treatments are available to restore lost hair cells. Conductive hearing loss can usually be treated, although full hearing recovery following otitis media may take weeks as the body clears the middle ear of debris. Evidence base: The author draws on the published literature and his extensive research on clinical aspects and molecular genetics of deafness, principally in companion animals, to review types and forms of deafness in cats. He also discusses current diagnostic approaches and provides brief advice for managing cats with hearing loss.