bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Developing the Impossible Figures Task to Assess Visual-Spatial Talents Among Chinese Students: A Rasch Measurement Model Analysis
Authors: Chan David W. 
Published: December 2009

Data of item responses to the Impossible Figures Task (IFT) from 492 Chinese primary, secondary, and university students were analyzed using the dichotomous Rasch measurement model. Item difficulty estimates and person ability estimates located on the same logit scale revealed that the pooled sample of Chinese students, who were relatively highly able, might find it relatively easy to complete the IFT, and there might be relatively fewer number of items at the higher end than at the lower end of the item difficulty scale. The substantial correlation between person ability estimates and external criterion measures (mental rotation test scores and judged drawing scores) provided support for the validity of the IFT in identifying visual-spatial talents among students. Implications of the findings for the use and the future development or refinement of the IFT are discussed. Putting the Research to Use Assessing and identifying visual-spatial talents in students is important as a first step to support and enhance their optimal talent development. This study provides supporting evidence that the rapid recognition of impossible figures using the Impossible Figures Task (IFT) could be indicative of students’ global visual-spatial ability. Thus, the IFT could be used as a part of a more comprehensive assessment protocol for students. Specifically, based on the present Rasch scaling, teachers and education practitioners could administer the IFT with items ordered in ascending item difficulties such that students could be placed along a scale of increasing person abilities. Depending on the purpose of the assessment, a cutoff score could also be flexibly determined for talent identification to suit specific educational settings and cultural contexts. Alternatively, targeting for particular regions of person abilities or talent potentials, selected item sets could also be used, as in the use of some forms of adaptive testing.
Pharmacist-Led Group Medical Appointment Model in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Taveira Tracey H. , Friedmann Peter D. , Cohen Lisa B. , Dooley Andrea G. , Khatana Sameed Ahmed M. , Pirraglia Paul A. , Wu Wen-Chih 
Published: December 2009

Purpose The purpose of this study was to assess whether the VA-MEDIC (Veterans Affairs Multi-disciplinary Education and Diabetes Intervention for Cardiac risk reduction), a pharmacist-led group medical visit program, could improve achievement of target goals in hypertension, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and tobacco use in patients with type 2 diabetes compared to usual care. Methods This was a randomized controlled trial of VA-MEDIC intervention in addition to usual care versus usual care alone in diabetic patients to reduce cardiac risk factors. VA-MEDIC consisted of a 40- to 60-minute educational component by nurse, nutritionist, physical therapist, or pharmacist followed by pharmacist-led behavioral and pharmacological interventions over 4 weekly sessions. Measures The attainment of target goals in hemoglobin A1C (A1C), blood pressure, fasting lipids, and tobacco use recommended by the American Diabetes Association. Results Of 118 participants, 109 completed the study. VA-MEDIC (n = 58) participants were younger and had greater tobacco use at baseline than usual care but were similar in other cardiovascular risk factors. After 4 months, a greater proportion of VA-MEDIC participants versus controls achieved an A1C of less than 7% and a systolic blood pressure less than 130 mm Hg. No significant change was found in lipid control or tobacco use between the 2 study arms. Conclusion Pharmacist-led group medical visits are feasible and efficacious for improving cardiac risk factors.
Training Community Health Promoters to Implement Diabetes Self-Management Support Programs for Urban Minority Adults
Authors: Comellas Mariceli , Walker Elizabeth A. , Movsas Sharon , Merkin Sheryl , Zonszein Joel , Strelnick Hal 
Published: December 2009

Objective To develop, implement, and evaluate a peer-led diabetes self-management support program in English and Spanish for a diverse, urban, low-income population. The program goals and objectives were to improve diabetes self-management behaviors, especially becoming more physically active, healthier eating, medication adherence, problem solving, and goal setting. Methods After a new training program for peers led by a certified diabetes educator (CDE) was implemented with 5 individuals, this pilot evaluation study was conducted in 2 community settings in the East and South Bronx. Seventeen adults with diabetes participated in the new peer-led 5-session program. Survey data were collected pre- and postintervention on diabetes self-care activities, quality of well-being, and number of steps using a pedometer. Results This pilot study established the acceptance and feasibility of both the peer training program and the community-based, peer-led program for underserved, minority adults with diabetes. Significant improvements were found in several physical activity and nutrition activities, with a modest improvement in well-being. Feedback from both peer facilitators and participants indicated that a longer program, but with the same educational materials, was desirable. Conclusions To reduce health disparities in urban communities, it is essential to continue program evaluation of the critical elements of peer-led programs for multiethnic adults with diabetes to promote self-management support in a cost-effective and culturally appropriate manner. Practice Implications A diabetes self-management support program can be successfully implemented in the community by peers, within a model including remote supervision by a CDE.
Treatment of Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Documented Isolated Grade III Lateral Collateral Ligament Injuries in National Football League Athletes
Authors: Bushnell Brandon D. , Bitting Seth S. , Crain Jana M. , Boublik Martin , Schlegel Theodore F. 
Published: December 2009

Background Isolated high-grade tears of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) of the knee are rare, as most injuries are part of a broader pattern of damage to the posterolateral corner. Limited data exist in the literature about the ideal management of isolated LCL injuries, especially in elite-level athletes. Hypothesis Operative and nonoperative treatment of MRI-documented isolated grade III LCL injury can produce equal results in terms of return to play in the National Football League (NFL). Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods The NFL Injury Surveillance System was used to identify all players with lateral ligament injuries of the knee from 1994 to 2004. In addition, the medical staffs of all NFL clubs were surveyed about injuries during the same period. Nine players with MRI-documented isolated grade III LCL injuries were identified through this process. The medical staff for each respective player then completed a data questionnaire. Statistics were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance. Results Four players underwent direct surgical repair of their injuries; they missed an average of 14.5 weeks of play and did not return within the same season. Five players were managed nonoperatively and missed an average of 2.0 weeks (P = .0001). Four of the 5 players in the nonoperative group returned within the same season at an average of 10 days; 1 missed the rest of the season. All 9 players were able to return to play the following season, and played for an average total of 2.8 (operative) and 4.4 (nonoperative) additional seasons (P = .253). Conclusion Nonoperative management of MRI-documented isolated grade III lateral collateral ligament injuries in NFL athletes results in more rapid return to play without subjecting the player to the risks of surgery, while achieving an equal likelihood of return to play at the professional level.
Correction of Posterior Shoulder Tightness is Associated with Symptom Resolution in Patients with Internal Impingement
Authors: Tyler Timothy F. , Nicholas Stephen J. , Lee Steven J. , Mullaney Michael , McHugh Malachy P. 
Published: December 2009

Background Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) and posterior shoulder tightness have been linked to internal impingement. Purpose To determine if improvements in GIRD and/or decreased posterior shoulder tightness are associated with a resolution of symptoms. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Passive internal rotation and external rotation (ER) range of motion (ROM) at 90° of shoulder abduction and posterior shoulder tightness (cross-chest adduction in side lying) were assessed in 22 patients with internal impingement (11 men, 11 women; age 41 ± 13 years). Treatment involved stretching and mobilization of the posterior shoulder. The Simple Shoulder Test (SST) was administered on initial evaluation and discharge. Changes in GIRD, ER ROM, and posterior shoulder tightness were compared between patients with complete resolution of symptoms versus patients with residual symptoms using independent t tests. Results Patients had significant GIRD (35°), loss of ER ROM (23°), and posterior shoulder tightness (35°) on initial evaluation (all P < .01). Physical therapy (7 ± 2 weeks; range, 3-12 weeks) improved GIRD (26° ± 14°; P < .01), ER ROM loss (14° ± 20°), and posterior shoulder tightness (27° ±19°). The SST improved from 5 ± 3 to 11 ± 1 (P < .01). A greater improvement in posterior shoulder tightness was seen in patients with complete resolution of symptoms (n = 12) compared with patients with residual symptoms (35° vs 18°; P < .05). Improvements in GIRD and ER ROM loss were not different between groups (GIRD, 25° vs 28°, P = .57; ER ROM, 14° vs 15°, P = .84). Conclusion Resolution of symptoms after physical therapy treatment for internal impingement was related to correction of posterior shoulder tightness but not correction of GIRD.
Return to Training and Playing after Posterior Ankle Arthroscopy for Posterior Impingement in Elite Professional Soccer
Authors: Calder James D. , Sexton Shaun A. , Pearce Christopher J. 
Published: December 2009

Background Posterior ankle impingement syndrome (PAIS) was first described in ballet dancers but is increasingly being diagnosed in other sports. Operative treatment may be indicated when nonoperative measures have failed. Traditionally, operative treatment has involved an open approach; more recently, posterior ankle arthroscopy has been employed. Purpose This study was conducted to describe the factors that influence return to play in professional athletes after posterior ankle arthroscopy for posterior ankle impingement syndrome. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence 4. Methods A consecutive series of 28 elite professional soccer players who had clinically and radiologically diagnosed posterior ankle impingement syndrome that failed to respond to nonoperative treatment underwent posterior ankle arthroscopy for bony or soft tissue posterior ankle impingement syndrome over 5 years. Results Of the 28 players, 27 were available for follow-up. Five had a diagnosis of soft tissue impingement and underwent debridement with flexor hallucis longus release, 13 had a symptomatic os trigonum that was excised arthroscopically, and 9 had removal of a bony avulsion fragment from the posterior ankle ligament complex. The mean length of time to return to training postoperatively was 34 days and return to playing was 41 days (range, 29-72 days). The duration of symptoms before surgery and excision of bony impingement were significantly correlated with the time to return to training and playing. There were no major complications and no reoperations at an average of 23 months of follow-up (range, 15-49 months). Conclusion Posterior ankle arthroscopy is safe and effective in the treatment of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in the elite soccer player, with return to training expected at an average of 5 weeks.
Arthroscopic Labral Repair and Treatment of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Professional Hockey Players
Authors: Philippon Marc J. , Weiss Douglass R. , Kuppersmith David A. , Briggs Karen K. , Hay Connor J. 
Published: December 2009

Background Hip injuries are common among professional hockey players in the National Hockey League (NHL). Hypothesis Professional hockey players will return to a high level of function and ice hockey after arthroscopic labral repair and treatment of femoroacetabular impingement. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods Twenty-eight professional hockey players (NHL) were unable to perform at the professional level due to unremitting and debilitating hip pain. Players underwent arthroscopic labral repair and were treated for femoroacetabular impingement from March 2005 to December 2007. Players who had bilateral hip symptoms were excluded. Athletes completed the Modified Harris Hip Score preoperatively and postoperatively and also completed a patient satisfaction questionnaire postoperatively. Return to sport was defined as the player resuming skating for training or participation in the sport of ice hockey. Results The average age at the time of surgery was 27 years (range, 18-37). There were 11 left hips and 17 right hips. Player positions included 9 defensemen, 12 offensive players, and 7 goaltenders. All players had labral lesions that required repair. In addition, all patients had evidence of femoroacetabular impingement at the time of surgery. The average time to return to skating/hockey drills was 3.4 months. The average time to follow-up was 24 months (range, 12-42). The Modified Harris Hip Score improved from 70 (range, 57-100) preoperatively to an average of 95 (range, 74-100) at follow-up. The median patient satisfaction was 10 (range, 5-10). Two players had reinjury and required additional hip arthroscopy. Conclusion Treatment of femoroacetabular impingement and labral lesions in professional hockey players resulted in successful outcomes, with high patient satisfaction and prompt return to sport.
Cell Carriers as the Next Generation of Cell Therapy for Cartilage Repair
Authors: Brittberg Mats 
Published: December 2009

Background: Since the first patient was implanted with autologous cultured chondrocytes more than 20 years ago, new variations of cell therapies for cartilage repair have appeared. Autologous chondrocyte implantation, a first-generation cell therapy, uses suspended autologous cultured chondrocytes in combination with a periosteal patch. Collagen-covered autologous cultured chondrocyte implantation, a second-generation cell therapy, uses suspended cultured chondrocytes with a collagen type I/III membrane. Today’s demand for transarthroscopic procedures has resulted in the development of third-generation cell therapies that deliver autologous cultured chondrocytes using cell carriers or cell-seeded scaffolds. Purpose: To review the current evidence of the matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation procedure, the most widely used carrier system to date. Also discussed are the characteristics of type I/III collagen membranes, behavior of cells associated with the membrane, surgical technique, rehabilitation, clinical outcomes, and quality of repair tissue. Study Design: Systematic review. Methods: Relevant publications were identified by searching Medline from its inception (1949) to December 2007; peer-reviewed publications of preclinical and clinical cell behavior, manufacturing process, surgical technique, and rehabilitation protocols were identified. Preclinical and clinical studies were included if they contained primary data and used a type I/III collagen membrane. Results: Data from these studies demonstrate that patients treated with matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation have an overall improvement in clinical outcomes. Reduced visual analog scale pain levels (range, 1.7-5.32 points) and improvements in the modified Cincinnati (range, 3.8-34.2 points), Lysholm-Gillquist (range, 23.09-47.6 points), Tegner-Lysholm (range, 1.39-3.9 points), and International Knee Documentation Classification scale ( P <.05) were observed. Patients had good-quality (hyaline-like) repair tissue as assessed by arthroscopic evaluation (including International Cartilage Repair Society score), magnetic resonance imaging, and histology, as well as a low incidence of postoperative complications. Conclusion: The findings suggest that matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation is a promising third-generation cell therapy for the repair of symptomatic, full-thickness articular cartilage defects.
Midterm Outcomes after Meniscal Allograft Transplantation
Authors: Lee Dae-Hee , Kim Sang-Beom , Kim Tae-Ho , Cha Eun-Jong , Bin Seong-Il 
Published: December 2009

Background Although graft extrusion is of concern after meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT), the correlation between extrusion and clinicoradiological outcomes remains unclear. Hypothesis Patients with graft extrusion after MAT have worse clinical outcomes and greater arthritic change than those without graft extrusion. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods Forty-three patients underwent MAT between 1999 and 2004. Grafts were classified as either nonextruded (<3 mm) or extruded (≥3 mm) according to 1-year postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 33.5 years (range, 17-43 years), and the mean follow-up period was 5.1 years (range, 3.5-8.3 years). The Lysholm score was used to evaluate knee function. In addition, preoperative and postoperative (final follow-up) measurements were taken to determine the absolute and relative (affected side/normal side) joint space width (JSW) on a standing 45° flexion posteroanterior view. Results Magnetic resonance imaging at 1 year showed the mean graft subluxation was 3.03 ± 0.872 mm across all patients. Twenty-six knees (60%) were classified as nonextruded and 17 (40%) as extruded. No statistical difference was found between these 2 groups regarding Lysholm score improvement after MAT. Overall, absolute and relative JSWs were slightly narrower postoperatively compared with preoperatively across all patients (mean absolute difference, 0.283 mm; mean relative difference; 4.79%; P < .001). However, extruded and nonextruded knees were similar in terms of absolute (P = .764) and relative (P = .482) JSW after MAT. The amount of extrusion did not correlate with Lysholm score or the relative difference between preoperative and postoperative JSW across all patients or in either group. Conclusion Joint space width was slightly narrower after MAT. Extrusion had no effect on 5-year clinical or radiological outcomes.
The Effect of Rotator Cuff Tears on Surgical Outcomes after Type II Superior Labrum Anterior Posterior Tears in Patients Younger than 50 Years
Authors: Levy Howard J. , Schachter Aaron K. , Hurd Jason L. , Lassen Brett , Panagopoulos Georgia 
Published: December 2009

Background Rotator cuff injury in the setting of type II superior labrum anterior posterior lesions is a common finding. Although predictable surgical outcomes can be expected after type II superior labrum anterior posterior repair, the effect of rotator cuff tears on surgical outcome is unknown. Hypothesis Rotator cuff tears will not negatively affect surgical outcome of type II superior labrum anterior posterior repairs. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods The study group included 93 patients younger than 50 years who underwent arthroscopic type II superior labrum anterior posterior repair and were available for review at a minimum of 2 years after surgery. Group 1 patients were identified as having normal rotator cuffs at the time of repair. Group 2 patients were identified as having rotator cuff injury at the time of repair (either partial-thickness or full-thickness tears). Statistical analysis was performed comparing the postoperative University of California, Los Angeles shoulder scores and overall improvement in University of California, Los Angeles score using the Student t test for significance. Results Mean follow-up was 2.54 years; 52.7% of patients had evidence of rotator cuff tears at the time of surgery. The mean postoperative University of California, Los Angeles score for group 1 was 32.9 (improvement of 11.0), and the mean postoperative University of California, Los Angeles score for group 2 was 33.3 (improvement of 12.2). There was not a significant difference in any of the outcome measures between groups. Conclusion Predictable short-term surgical results and return to activity can be expected after repair of type II superior labrum anterior posterior lesions in patients younger than 50 years who have coexistent rotator cuff tear. Although cuff lesions did not have a negative effect on the short-term outcome in patients with type II superior labrum anterior posterior lesions, longer-term follow-up is needed to determine natural history of this pathologic condition.
Predictors of Running-Related Injuries in Novice Runners Enrolled in a Systematic Training Program
Authors: Buist Ida , Bredeweg Steef W. , Lemmink Koen A. P. M. , van Mechelen Willem , Diercks Ron L. 
Published: December 2009

Background The popularity of running is still growing. As participation increases, running-related injuries also increase. Until now, little is known about the predictors for injuries in novice runners. Hypothesis Predictors for running-related injuries (RRIs) will differ between male and female novice runners. Study Design Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods Participants were 532 novice runners (226 men, 306 women) preparing for a recreational 4-mile (6.7-km) running event. After completing a baseline questionnaire and undergoing an orthopaedic examination, they were followed during the training period of 13 weeks. An RRI was defined as any self-reported running-related musculoskeletal pain of the lower extremity or back causing a restriction of running for at least 1 week. Results Twenty-one percent of the novice runners had at least one RRI during follow-up. The multivariate adjusted Cox regression model for male participants showed that body mass index (BMI) (hazard ratio [HR], 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05-1.26), previous injury in the past year (HR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.36-5.55), and previous participation in sports without axial load (HR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.03-4.11) were associated with RRI. In female participants, only navicular drop (HR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.75-0.97) remained a significant predictor for RRI in the multivariate Cox regression modeling. Type A behavior and range of motion (ROM) of the hip and ankle did not affect risk. Conclusion Male and female novice runners have different risk profiles. Higher BMI, previous injury, and previous sports participation without axial loading are important predictors for RRI in male participants. Further research is needed to detect more predictors for female novice runners.