Introducing embedded indigenous psychological support teams: a suggested addition to psychological first aid in an international context.

PubMed

Edwards-Stewart, Amanda; Ahmad, Zeba S; Thoburn, John W; Furman, Rich; Lambert, Ashly J; Shelly, Lauren; Gunn, Ginger

2012-01-01

The current article introduces Embedded Indigenous Psychological Support Teams (IPST) as a possible addition to current disaster relief efforts. This article highlights psychological first aid in an international context by drawing on mainstream disaster relief models such as The American Red Cross, Critical Incident Stress Management, and Flexible Psychological First Aid. IPST are explained as teams utilizing techniques from both CISM and FPFA with a focus on resiliency. It is currently theorized that in utilizing IPST existing disaster relief models may be more effective in mitigating negative physical or mental health consequences post-disaster.

Keeping Students on Track to Graduate: A Synthesis of School Dropout Trends, Prevention, and Intervention Initiatives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ecker-Lyster, Meghan; Niileksela, Christopher

2016-01-01

This article reviews the literature on dropout trends, prevention, and intervention initiatives for school-aged children. Theoretical and consequential trends are highlighted to offer educators a perspective in which to view the dropout problem. This article also examines current trends in prevention and intervention initiatives aimed at reducing…

On Open Access to Research: The Green, the Gold, and the Public Good

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roach, Audra K.; Gainer, Jesse

2013-01-01

In this column the authors discuss barriers to worldwide open access to peer-reviewed journal articles online and how they might be addressed by literacy scholars. They highlight economic and ethical problems associated with the current subscription-based system for distributing articles (which sometimes works against the ideals of research and…

Capacity Building for School Development: Current Problems and Future Challenges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ho, Dora; Lee, Moosung

2016-01-01

This article offers a theoretical discussion on the current problems and future challenges of school capacity building in early childhood education (ECE), aiming to highlight some key areas for future research. In recent years, there has been a notable policy shift from monitoring quality through inspection to improving quality through school…

Testing for hypothyroidism in dogs.

PubMed

Ferguson, Duncan C

2007-07-01

Hypothyroidism is the most common endocrinopathy in the dog. Rather than being a comprehensive review of all possible thyroid function tests, the focus in this article is on the logical progression of test choice, highlighting total thyroxine, free thyroxine, triiodothyronine, thyrotropin (TSH), and antithyroid antibodies. This article includes extensive discussion of the current status of the canine TSH assay and the potential for improving this assay.

Prioritising Progression over Proficiency: Limitations of Teacher-Based Assessment within Technician-Level Vocational Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, Alan; Bathmaker, Ann-Marie

2017-01-01

This article examines the evolution of assessment policy and practice in technician-level vocational education. Using the example of an advanced-level BTEC National programme in Engineering in one college in the UK, the article highlights how the origins of current assessment practice lie in genuine concerns since the late 1950s about the…

The visibility of scientific misconduct: A review of the literature on retracted journal articles.

PubMed

Hesselmann, Felicitas; Graf, Verena; Schmidt, Marion; Reinhart, Martin

2017-10-01

Retractions of scientific articles are becoming the most relevant institution for making sense of scientific misconduct. An increasing number of retracted articles, mainly attributed to misconduct, is currently providing a new empirical basis for research about scientific misconduct. This article reviews the relevant research literature from an interdisciplinary context. Furthermore, the results from these studies are contextualized sociologically by asking how scientific misconduct is made visible through retractions. This study treats retractions as an emerging institution that renders scientific misconduct visible, thus, following up on the sociology of deviance and its focus on visibility. The article shows that retractions, by highlighting individual cases of misconduct and general policies for preventing misconduct while obscuring the actors and processes through which retractions are effected, produce highly fragmented patterns of visibility. These patterns resemble the bifurcation in current justice systems.

Research is our middle name

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This article highlights research by the USDA-ARS Greenhouse Production Research Group (GPRG). It provides an overview of the current research projects of the Application Technology Research Unit being conducted by the Agricultural Engineering Research Group, the Horticultural Insects Research Group...

[Play therapy in hospital].

PubMed

Gold, Katharina; Grothues, Dirk; Leitzmann, Michael; Gruber, Hans; Melter, Michael

2012-01-01

The following article presents an overview of current research studies on play therapy in the hospital. It highlights individual diagnoses for which play therapy has shown reasonable success. The aim of this review is to describe the current status of the scientific debate on play therapy for sick children in order to allow conclusions regarding the indications for which play therapy is or might be useful.

The visibility of scientific misconduct: A review of the literature on retracted journal articles

PubMed Central

Hesselmann, Felicitas; Graf, Verena; Schmidt, Marion; Reinhart, Martin

2016-01-01

Retractions of scientific articles are becoming the most relevant institution for making sense of scientific misconduct. An increasing number of retracted articles, mainly attributed to misconduct, is currently providing a new empirical basis for research about scientific misconduct. This article reviews the relevant research literature from an interdisciplinary context. Furthermore, the results from these studies are contextualized sociologically by asking how scientific misconduct is made visible through retractions. This study treats retractions as an emerging institution that renders scientific misconduct visible, thus, following up on the sociology of deviance and its focus on visibility. The article shows that retractions, by highlighting individual cases of misconduct and general policies for preventing misconduct while obscuring the actors and processes through which retractions are effected, produce highly fragmented patterns of visibility. These patterns resemble the bifurcation in current justice systems. PMID:28943647

Pulmonary Capillary Hemangiomatosis and Pulmonary Veno-occlusive Disease.

PubMed

Chaisson, Neal F; Dodson, Mark W; Elliott, Charles Gregory

2016-09-01

This article provides an overview of pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) and pulmonary capillary hemangiomatosis (PCH), two disorders that challenge clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists because they often mimic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). The article reviews the features that differentiate PVOD and PCH from PAH. The article also describes the overlap of PVOD and PCH, highlighted by recent reports of families diagnosed with PVOD or PCH caused by EIF2AK4 mutations. In addition, the article outlines current approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of PVOD and PCH. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Exploring the molecular basis of antifungal synergies using genome-wide approaches

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

This is a review article summarizing genomic profiling strategies for determining the mechanism of action of antifungal synergies, and highlighting the potential applications of these technologies. Given the limitations of currently available antifungal agents and the development of drug resistance...

Silent Suffering: Children with Selective Mutism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Camposano, Lisa

2011-01-01

Despite increasing awareness, the childhood disorder of selective mutism is under-researched and commonly misdiagnosed. The purpose of this article is to highlight current issues related to this disorder as well as describe various treatment approaches including behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, family, and pharmacological…

Misconceptions about Psychological Science: A Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hughes, Sean; Lyddy, Fiona; Lambe, Sinead

2013-01-01

This article provides an overview of the available evidence on psychological misconceptions, including key findings, current directions and emerging issues for investigation. We begin by defining misconceptions and then examine their prevalence and persistence, discuss their implications for student learning and highlight potential strategies to…

Etiology and sequelae of root resorption.

PubMed

Vlaskalic, V; Boyd, R L; Baumrind, S

1998-06-01

This article reviews the current status of investigation into apical root resorption within the context of orthodontic treatment. Treatment and patient factors that have traditionally been investigated are discussed, along with the results of current research in this area. The need for rethinking traditional research strategies in the quest for identifying both control and causative mechanisms is explored. Finally, proposals for key areas of future interest are highlighted.

Addiction Competencies in the 2009 CACREP Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program Standards

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Tiffany K.; Craig, Stephen E.; Fetherson, Bianca T. L.; Simpson, C. Dennis

2013-01-01

The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs developed addiction competencies for clinical mental health counseling students. This article highlights these competencies, provides an overview of current addiction training, and describes methods to integrate addiction education into curricula.

Transcribing Speech: Practicalities, Philosophies and Prophesies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rahilly, Joan

2011-01-01

This article outlines the main practical and philosophical developments which have contributed to current approaches to phonetic transcription. Particular contributions from scholars in the field are highlighted as seminal in shaping transcription work. Consideration is also given to the ways in which insights from clinical transcription impact…

Nanotechnology in food science: Functionality, applicability, and safety assessment.

PubMed

He, Xiaojia; Hwang, Huey-Min

2016-10-01

Rapid development of nanotechnology is expected to transform many areas of food science and food industry with increasing investment and market share. In this article, current applications of nanotechnology in food systems are briefly reviewed. Functionality and applicability of food-related nanotechnology are highlighted in order to provide a comprehensive view on the development and safety assessment of nanotechnology in the food industry. While food nanotechnology offers great potential benefits, there are emerging concerns arising from its novel physicochemical properties. Therefore, the safety concerns and regulatory policies on its manufacturing, processing, packaging, and consumption are briefly addressed. At the end of this article, the perspectives of nanotechnology in active and intelligent packaging applications are highlighted. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier B.V.

A human rights approach to advocacy for people with dementia: A review of current provision in England and Wales.

PubMed

Dixon, Jeremy; Laing, Judy; Valentine, Christine

2018-01-01

In this article, we review current advocacy services for people with dementia in England and Wales (provided, respectively, under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 , the Mental Health Act 1983 /2007 and the Care Act 2014) through the lens of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). We examine what a human rights' approach to advocacy support would entail, and whether current frameworks in England and Wales are adequate for this approach and provide a sufficient safeguard. First, we consider how the human rights of persons with dementia have become increasingly important and the extent to which the CRPD provides an opportunity to bolster safeguards and protection. Second, we discuss cause and case advocacy, and how these advocacy models could be shaped by the CRPD to promote the rights of persons with dementia at each stage of the disease. Third, we highlight current dilemmas and challenges in the provision of advocacy support in England and Wales by focusing on case law, commissioning of services and current practice. In particular, we analyse how the different legislative schemes have given rise to some confusion about the various advocacy provisions, as well as potential for overlap and discrepancies between different regimes. We also highlight the need for further research to address important gaps in knowledge, including the scale of need, patterns of referral and attitudes to advocacy services. The article concludes by highlighting how advocacy support could be recalibrated as a universal right to promote the aims and aspirations of the CRPD, and how education is needed to address the stigma of dementia and promote the benefits of advocacy in protecting the rights of those with dementia.

Clinical Neurogenetics: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Harms, Matthew B.; Baloh, Robert H.

2013-01-01

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease, about which our understanding is expanding rapidly as its genetic causes are uncovered. The pace of new gene discovery over the last 5 years has accelerated, providing new insights into the pathogenesis of disease and highlighting biological pathways for target for therapeutic development. This article reviews our current understanding of the heritability of ALS, provides an overview of each of the major ALS genes, highlighting their phenotypic characteristics and frequencies as a guide for clinicians evaluating patients with ALS. PMID:24176417

Sharing Expository Texts with Preschool Children in Special Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Breit-Smith, Allison; Busch, Jamie; Guo, Ying

2015-01-01

Although a general limited availability of expository texts currently exists in preschool special education classrooms, expository tests offer speech-language pathologists (SLPs) a rich context for addressing the language goals of preschool children with language impairment on their caseloads. Thus, this article highlights the differences between…

Fragile X Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwarte, Andrea R.

2008-01-01

This article provides an overview of current research on Fragile X Syndrome, and how that knowledge can be used to guide successful intervention. The genetic etiology of Fragile X is reviewed and the physical, cognitive, adaptive, behavioral, and emotional phenotypes of children with the disorder are described, highlighting the differences in…

An LJ Round Table with the Aggregators.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Albanese, Andrew Richard

2002-01-01

Discusses the growing trend in aggregated article databases and includes individual views from a panel discussion. Highlights include publisher's embargoes of current content; views of academic libraries and of vendors; full-text issues; the Tasini v. New York Times Supreme Court case; consortial buying; and future possibilities. (LRW)

Preclinical QSP Modeling in the Pharmaceutical Industry: An IQ Consortium Survey Examining the Current Landscape

PubMed Central

Wu, Fan; Bansal, Loveleena; Bradshaw‐Pierce, Erica; Chan, Jason R.; Liederer, Bianca M.; Mettetal, Jerome T.; Schroeder, Patricia; Schuck, Edgar; Tsai, Alice; Xu, Christine; Chimalakonda, Anjaneya; Le, Kha; Penney, Mark; Topp, Brian; Yamada, Akihiro

2018-01-01

A cross‐industry survey was conducted to assess the landscape of preclinical quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) modeling within pharmaceutical companies. This article presents the survey results, which provide insights on the current state of preclinical QSP modeling in addition to future opportunities. Our results call attention to the need for an aligned definition and consistent terminology around QSP, yet highlight the broad applicability and benefits preclinical QSP modeling is currently delivering. PMID:29349875

Biomarkers and patient selection for PI3K/Akt/mTOR targeted therapies: current status and future directions.

PubMed

Bartlett, John M S

2010-11-01

The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/ mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway regulates a broad spectrum of physiologic and pathologic processes. In breast cancer mutation, amplification, deletion, methylation, and posttranslational modifications lead to significant dysregulation of this pathway leading to more aggressive and potentially drug-resistant disease. Multiple novel agents, targeting different nodes within the pathway are currently under development by both commercial and academic partners. The key to the successful validation of these markers is selection of the appropriate patient groups using biomarkers. This article reviews current progress in this area, highlighting the key molecular alterations described in genes within the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway that may have an effect on response to current and future therapeutic interventions. Herein, gaps in current knowledge are highlighted and suggestions for future research directions given that may facilitate biomarker development in partnership with current drug development.

Devices used for stabilisation of newborn infants at birth.

PubMed

Roehr, Charles C; O'Shea, Joyce E; Dawson, Jennifer A; Wyllie, Jonathan P

2018-01-01

This review examines devices used during newborn stabilisation. Evidence for their use to optimise the thermal, respiratory and cardiovascular management in the delivery room is presented. Mechanisms of action and rationale of use are described, current developments are presented and areas of future research are highlighted. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

The Development of Teacher Education in Malaysia: Problems and Challenges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Molly N. N.

2000-01-01

Reviews patterns of teacher education in Malaysia, highlighting current problems and challenges, discussing recent reforms and policy initiatives in the domain of teacher education, and introducing three articles that focus on: teacher education for Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages in Malaysia, training of school counselors in…

Renew! Take a Break in Kindergarten

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Charlesworth, Rosalind

2005-01-01

A university child development/early childhood education professor renews her relationship with young children and with current public school teaching by spending 5 weeks in kindergarten. This article describes some highlights of her experience: the children's daily journal writing, an in-class and take-home math activity, and teaching the…

Morphological Awareness Intervention in School-Age Children with Language and Literacy Deficits: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wolter, Julie A.; Green, Laura

2013-01-01

This article highlights the clinical application of morphological awareness intervention to facilitate phonological, vocabulary, reading, and spelling success in children with language and literacy deficits. First, the research-based benefits of morphological awareness instruction are reviewed and current theoretical and research-based…

Perfusion Electronic Record Documentation Using Epic Systems Software.

PubMed

Riley, Jeffrey B; Justison, George A

2015-12-01

The authors comment on Steffens and Gunser's article describing the University of Wisconsin adoption of the Epic anesthesia record to include perfusion information from the cardiopulmonary bypass patient experience. We highlight the current-day lessons and the valuable quality and safety principles the Wisconsin-Epic model anesthesia-perfusion record provides.

Stories Matter: The Complexity of Cultural Authenticity in Children's Literature.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Dana L., Ed.; Short, Kathy G., Ed.

The controversial issue of cultural authenticity in children's literature resurfaces continually, always eliciting strong emotions and a wide range of perspectives. This collection explores the complexity of this issue by highlighting important historical events, current debates, and new questions and critiques. Articles in the collection are…

Current Aspects on Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

PubMed Central

Markopoulos, Anastasios K

2012-01-01

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is the most common malignant epithelial neoplasm affecting the oral cavity. This article overviews the essential points of oral squamous cell carcinoma, highlighting its risk and genomic factors, the potential malignant disorders and the therapeutic approaches. It also emphasizes the importance of the early diagnosis. PMID:22930665

Tensions and Challenges in China's Education Policy Borrowing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tan, Charlene

2016-01-01

Background: This article critically discusses the key tensions and challenges arising from the educational policy borrowing in China, through its current education reform. Focussing on the new curriculum reform (NCR), the paper highlights the interactions and conflicts between foreign and local ideologies and practices. Sources of evidence: The…

Science Policy Reviews, Volume 5 Number 4.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simons, Eugene M., Ed.

Presented in this final issue of a quarterly publication are reviews, highlights, and 391 annotated bibliographic references from current and international literature in the area of science and public policy. The literature reviewed includes books, reports, and periodical articles and focuses on matters of broad public policy. In addition to the…

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mendell, Mark J.

This report briefly summarizes, based on recent review articles and selected more recent research reports, current scientific knowledge on two topics: assessing unhealthy levels of indoor D/M in homes and remediating home dampness-related problems to protect health. Based on a comparison of current scientific knowledge to that required to support effective, evidence-based, health-protective policies on home D/M, gaps in knowledge are highlighted, prior questions and research questions specified, and necessary research activities and approaches recommended.

The effect of childhood sexual abuse on adolescent pregnancy: an integrative research review.

PubMed

Francisco, Melissa A; Hicks, Kasey; Powell, Julianne; Styles, Kristin; Tabor, Jessica L; Hulton, Linda J

2008-10-01

This study aims to describe the current research literature on the relationship of childhood sexual abuse and adolescent pregnancy and highlight the potential cross-cutting risk factors. Thirteen articles were identified as the basis of this review using Cooper's methodology (1998) for synthesizing research. Articles were categorized according to the levels of evidence proposed by Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt (2005). The majority of the studies identified a relationship between childhood sexual abuse and adolescent pregnancy (n=9). Cross-cutting risk factors included female gender, younger age, substance use/abuse, family constellation, parent-child conflict, and mother disengagement. Strategies for nurses to identify pregnant and parenting adolescents who have been sexually victimized are important for early intervention. Resiliency factors of young people who report positive outcomes are highlighted.

Across the Board: Nam-Gyu Park.

PubMed

Park, Nam-Gyu

2016-09-22

In this series of articles, the board members of ChemSusChem discuss recent research articles that they consider of exceptional quality and importance for sustainability. This entry features Prof. Nam-Gyu Park, who highlights the recent work on mixed-cation mixed-anion perovskite materials toward high efficiency perovskite solar cells. He summarizes the work that has brought us to the current stage of research and suggests possible future paths for further advancement. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Risk stratification following acute myocardial infarction.

PubMed

Singh, Mandeep

2007-07-01

This article reviews the current risk assessment models available for patients presenting with myocardial infarction (MI). These practical tools enhance the health care provider's ability to rapidly and accurately assess patient risk from the event or revascularization therapy, and are of paramount importance in managing patients presenting with MI. This article highlights the models used for ST-elevation MI (STEMI) and non-ST elevation MI (NSTEMI) and provides an additional description of models used to assess risks after primary angioplasty (ie, angioplasty performed for STEMI).

Health impact assessment in Australia: A review and directions for progress

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Harris, Patrick, E-mail: patrick.harris@unsw.edu.a; Spickett, Jeff, E-mail: J.Spickett@curtin.edu.a

2011-07-15

This article provides an overview of Health Impact Assessment (HIA) within Australia. We discuss the development and current position of HIA and offer some directions for HIA's progression. Since the early 1990s HIA activity in Australia has increased and diversified in application and practice. This article first highlights the emergent streams of HIA practice across environmental, policy and health equity foci, and how these have developed within Australia. The article then provides summaries of current practice provided by each Australian state and territory. We then offer some insight into current issues that require further progression or resolution if HIA ismore » to progress effectively in Australia. This progress rests both on developing broad system support for HIA across government, led by the health sector, and developing system capacity to undertake, commission or review HIAs. We argue that a unified and clear HIA approach is required as a prerequisite to gaining the understanding and support for HIA in the public and private sectors and the wider community.« less

Perspectives on prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation of low back pain in WORK.

PubMed

Ravenek, Michael J; Bryson-Campbell, Mikelle M; Shaw, Lynn; Hughes, Ian D

2010-01-01

The aim of this review was to describe the low back pain (LBP) knowledge base developed in WORK and to discuss its relevance to current perspectives in the broader literature on LBP and employment. A scoping review of the literature in WORK on LBP and employment was conducted using published articles from 1990-2009. Articles were organized into geographical regions and summarized for contributions to the domains of WORK: prevention, assessment, and rehabilitation. Methodological accordance of the articles was also assessed. Fifty articles were extracted and organized into contributions from authors within North America (n=34) and outside North America (n=16). In total there were 26 prevention, 7 assessment, and 12 rehabilitation articles in this review. Five articles were also classified as 'understanding' articles. More than half of the articles retrieved employed quantitative methodology. WORK has contributed a broad realm of publications to the knowledge base on LBP and employment. Two thirds of the articles were contributed from authors within North America, with a greater emphasis on prevention. This article highlights the similarities and differences in the international knowledge base in the management of LBP in WORK. Future directions for research are elaborated drawing on current perspectives of two experts on the management of LBP.

Judy Lupart: A Tribute to a Woman Who Led the Way

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hutchinson, Nancy L.

2012-01-01

In this article, the author offers a brief tribute to Judy Lupart, a trail blazer in inclusive education in Canada. The author looks back over the past two decades to highlight how Judy's efforts have contributed to the current accomplishments in inclusion and have challenged everyone to ensure education for all.

The Curriculum Debate: Why It Is Important Today

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tedesco, Juan Carlos; Opertti, Renato; Amadio, Massimo

2014-01-01

This article highlights some of the key issues in current discussions around curriculum, such as values education, inclusive education, competency-based approaches, soft and hard skills, and scientific and digital culture. It starts with the assumption that quality education for all is necessary to achieve social justice, and it looks at curricula…

Applying Learning Design to Work-Based Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miao, Yongwu; Hoppe, Heinz Ulrich

2011-01-01

Learning design is currently slanted to reflect a course-based approach to learning. This article explores whether the concept of learning design could be applied to support the informal aspects of work-based learning (WBL). It also discusses the characteristics of WBL and presents a WBL-specific learning design that highlights the key features…

What Can Jesus Teach Us about Student Engagement?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

James, Glenn; Martinez, Elda; Herbers, Sherry

2015-01-01

This article examines Jesus's teaching methods as described in the four Gospels, highlighting the ways in which He led listeners to participate actively in their learning. We identify similarities between many of Jesus's techniques and current practices in the field of student engagement, with a focus on applications for instructors in higher…

Student Recruitment and Retention Efforts in PETE: Cloudy Skies or Silver Linings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bulger, Sean M.; Braga, Luciana; DiGiacinto, Kacey; Jones, Emily M.

2016-01-01

This article addresses current issues and trends related to teacher candidate recruitment in physical education teacher education programs. It highlights the efforts of program leaders in three different higher education institutions to recruit and retain well-qualified physical education majors. The key lessons learned from these cases serve as a…

Educational Research--History of Education a Curious Case?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goodman, Joyce; Grosvenor, Ian

2009-01-01

The article begins with an exploration of the current state of history of education by drawing on published reviews of history of education, thematic analysis of journal content, and mapping of postgraduate study. It then highlights "moments of insecurity". These are characterised by a particular discourse that frames the future of the discipline…

The Policy Delphi: A Method for Identifying Intended and Unintended Consequences of Educational Policy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manley, R. Adam

2013-01-01

This article highlights a rarely utilized but effective technique for identifying intended and unintended consequences of past or current policy or policy change. The author guides the reader through the process of identifying potential participants, contacting participants, developing the policy Delphi instrument, and analyzing the findings by…

Collective Genius: Bridging the Gaps among Research, Innovation and Practice

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Hair, Mary John

2011-01-01

In this article, the author focuses on bridging the gaps among research, innovation, and practice. First, the author reflects on historical perspectives involving the use of research to improve education and serve the public good. Second, the author explores the current climate as reflected by three national reports highlighting future roles of…

By the Numbers: Current Research in the Literature

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lindsay, Elizabeth Blakesley, Ed.

2008-01-01

This article highlights various literature covering a broad range of topics that are of interest to public services librarians, from collections and user services to one's own research and professional development. Although addressing many topics, these authors have all used or advocate for solid research methods and data analysis in their works,…

Perfectionism in Language Learners: Review, Conceptualization, and Recommendations for Teachers and School Psychologists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flett, Gordon L.; Hewitt, Paul L.; Su, Chang; Flett, Kathleen D.

2016-01-01

The pressures inherent in trying to be perfect can undermine learning and exacerbate anxiety in certain students. In the current article, we review existing research and theory on the role of perfectionism in language learning anxiety and performance deficits. Our analysis highlights the complexities inherent in the perfectionism construct,…

Should Coaches Believe in Innate Ability? The Importance of Leadership Mindset

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chase, Melissa A.

2010-01-01

The purpose of this article is to examine how individuals' personal beliefs about the antecedents of leadership ability influence their leadership behavior and ultimate effectiveness. The relevant literature is reviewed to highlight current thinking in relation to the debate over whether leadership is innate or learned. A leadership mindset that…

Feminist Struggles to Mobilise Progressive Spaces within the "Boy-Turn" in Gender Equity and Schooling Reform

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keddie, Amanda

2010-01-01

This article presents the stories of two Australian feminist educators, "Kath" and "Kim". Drawn from a small-scale interview-based study, the stories highlight these women's struggles to mobilise progressive spaces within the current boy-focused equity and schooling agenda. Such struggles are located within the new…

What Is to Be Done? Possibilities for the Counter-Offensive

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fisher, Trevor

2014-01-01

This article sketches one line of march for the counter-offensive to current education policy called for in the previous issue of "FORUM." It highlights three key areas where, in his drive to "revolutionise" the education service, the Education Secretary has over-extended himself and become vulnerable. It calls for sharp and…

Enhancing Secondary Science Content Accessibility with Video Games

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Marino, Matthew T.; Becht, Kathleen M.; Vasquez, Eleazar, III; Gallup, Jennifer L.; Basham, James D.; Gallegos, Benjamin

2014-01-01

Mobile devices, including iPads, tablets, and so on, are common in high schools across the country. Unfortunately, many secondary teachers see these devices as distractions rather than tools for scaffolding instruction. This article highlights current research related to the use of video games as a means to increase the cognitive and social…

Preparing Medical Graduates for an Interconnected World: Current Practices and Future Possibilities for Internationalizing the Medical Curriculum in Different Contexts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stütz, Alexander; Green, Wendy; McAllister, Lindy; Eley, Diann

2015-01-01

Preparing medical graduates who are competent to work in a global environment requires broad integration of international and intercultural perspectives throughout the medical curriculum. Employing Leask and Bridge's "conceptual framework of internationalisation of the curriculum," this article first highlights the emphasis placed on…

A Research Agenda for Online Teacher Professional Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dede, Chris; Ketelhut, Diane Jass; Whitehouse, Pamela; Breit, Lisa; McCloskey, Erin M.

2009-01-01

This article highlights key online teacher professional development (oTPD) areas in need of research based on a review of current oTPD research conducted in conjunction with an oTPD conference held at Harvard University in fall 2005. The literature review of this field documents much work that is anecdotal, describing professional development…

Entrepreneurial Universities and the Development of Regional Societies: A Spatial View of the Europe of Knowledge

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kitagawa, Fumi

2005-01-01

This article highlights a range of university entrepreneurship activities and regional engagement in relation to current governance and finance issues. A model for networking and developing partnership between universities and their region is presented, which reflects existing and emerging European level policy instruments. This model aims at…

The Reinvention of the FDLP: A Paradigm Shift from Product Provider to Service Provider

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arrigo, Paul A.

2004-01-01

This article highlights the Government Printing Office's (GPO) successful transition from a producer of print publications to a service provider and how this has affected the role of Federal Depository Libraries in an increasingly electronic service environment. It discusses the identity crisis currently facing Federal Depository Libraries during…

Digital Technology, Learning, and Postsecondary Students with Disabilities: Where We've Been and Where We're Going

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fichten, Catherine S.; Asuncion, Jennison; Scapin, Rafael

2014-01-01

This article briefly reviews the history of assistive technologies in American and Canadian postsecondary education starting in the 1990s, discusses the accessibility of e-learning and information and communication technologies (ICTs) currently popular in postsecondary education, and highlights emerging trends. Increasing use of universal design…

The ABCD's of 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase and adrenoleukodystrophy.

PubMed

Weidling, Ian; Swerdlow, Russell H

2016-07-01

This Editorial highlights a study by Singh and coworkers in the current issue of Journal of Neurochemistry, in which the authors present additional evidence that AMPKα1 is reduced in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). They make a case for increasing AMPKα1 activity for therapeutic purposes in this disease, and indicate how this goal may be achieved. Read the highlighted article 'Metformin-induced mitochondrial function and ABCD2 up regulation in X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy involves AMP activated protein kinase' on page 86. © 2016 International Society for Neurochemistry.

Clinical supervision: the state of the art.

PubMed

Falender, Carol A; Shafranske, Edward P

2014-11-01

Since the recognition of clinical supervision as a distinct professional competence and a core competence, attention has turned to ensuring supervisor competence and effective supervision practice. In this article, we highlight recent developments and the state of the art in supervision, with particular emphasis on the competency-based approach. We present effective clinical supervision strategies, providing an integrated snapshot of the current status. We close with consideration of current training practices in supervision and challenges. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The use of psychometrists in clinical neuropsychology: history, current status, and future directions.

PubMed

Malek-Ahmadi, Michael; Erickson, Tom; Puente, Antonio E; Pliskin, Neil; Rock, Rachel

2012-01-01

In recent years, the National Academy of Neuropsychology and other professional neuropsychological organizations have published a number of articles and position papers regarding the use, education, and training of psychometrists ("technicians"). Although these documents provide guidelines for the suggested qualifications and training procedures of psychometrists, none make any mention of the need for a standardized credentialing process, which is commonly required of technicians in similar fields, especially in medical settings. Given the recent changes in current procedural Terminology codes used to bill for neuropsychological services and the interpretation of legislation disallowing the use of psychometrists in New York, the need for a standard credential for psychometrists is apparent. This article will review the history and current use of psychometrists in clinical neuropsychology and highlight the need and rationale for the credentialing of psychometrists.

The Making of Psychological Methods

PubMed Central

Harlow, Lisa L.

2017-01-01

Psychological Methods celebrated its 20-year anniversary recently, having published its first quarterly issue in March 1996. It seemed time to provide a brief overview of the history, the highlights over the years, and the current state of the journal, along with tips for submissions. The article is organized to discuss: (1) the background and development of the journal, (2) the top articles, authors and topics over the years, (3) an overview of the journal today, and (4) a summary of the features of successful articles that usually entail rigorous and novel methodology described in clear and understandable writing and that can be applied in meaningful and relevant areas of psychological research. PMID:28252997

Review of research and developments in self healing composite materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reddy Madara, Sahith; Sarath Raj, N. S.; Pon Selvan, Chithirai, Dr.

2018-04-01

Self-healing materials are artificial or synthetically created substances that have the built-in ability to automatically repair damage to themselves without any external diagnosis of the problem or human intervention. This article presents the current research and developments in self-healing composite materials. A detailed study is conducted on various types of self-healing composites with their self-healing mechanisms. The applications of self-healing materials in various fields including space sector is also discussed. Economics and Future outlooks for self-healing smart materials is highlighted at the end of the article. This research article will be useful to manufacturers, policy makers and researchers widely.

Personal Assistance Services (PAS) for individuals with disabilities: self-care at the workplace.

PubMed

Solovieva, Tatiana I; Walls, Richard T; Dowler, Denetta L

2010-01-01

The intent of this investigation was to identify current definitions, issues, and strategies related to the use of Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in the workplace. The participants were employees with disabilities who used PAS in the workplace as well as employers who participated in research studies over the past 20 years. More than 30 articles were reviewed to determine PAS definitions, use, policies, and outcomes. A comprehensive search of bibliographic resources (e.g., EBSCOhost) was conducted to identify appropriate articles. The articles revealed current definitions of workplace PAS, demonstrated an increasing need for PAS, and highlighted fiscal and societal barriers to the full implementation of PAS at work. The outcomes clarify the historical components, but also identify questions that remain. These questions concern the effectiveness of PAS, best practices for funding PAS, and the need for national and local policies to support the use of PAS for workers with disabilities.

The Obesity, Metabolic Syndrome, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Pandemic: II. Therapeutic Management of Atherogenic Dyslipidemia

PubMed Central

Ginsberg, Henry N.; MacCallum, Paul R.

2010-01-01

Strategies for the effective management of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with the metabolic syndrome (MS) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are essential to help reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Treatment strategies should be multi-factorial and include the promotion of therapeutic lifestyle changes, as well as pharmacologic therapies to treat individual risk factors according to current guidelines. In an accompanying article, the importance of atherogenic dyslipidemia as a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease in patients with the MS or T2DM was highlighted. Current treatment options for managing this characteristic form of atherogenic dyslipidemia are limited and tend to be only moderately effective. The focus of this review is the current pharmacotherapies available for the management of atherogenic dyslipidemia in patients with the MS or T2DM, highlighting the rationale for combining available treatments. Novel strategies currently in clinical development are also discussed. PMID:19751468

Positive Examples and Lessons Learned from Rural Small Business Adoption of E-Commerce Strategies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lamie, R. David; Barkley, David L.; Markley, Deborah M.

2011-01-01

Rural small businesses struggling against the current of competition from "big box" retailers, weak consumer demand, and on-line shopping options must find strategies that work. Many are finding that adoption of e-commerce strategies is a key to survival, even prosperity. This article highlights the lessons learned from a recent case study…

The Rights of Children and Young People in State Care

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ashton, Sarah

2014-01-01

This article highlights the lack of human rights recognition for arguably one of the most vulnerable groups in our society, children and young people in the care of the state. Currently under New Zealand legislation and policy frameworks these children do not have their rights upheld, as per New Zealand's obligations under the United Nations…

Teacher Preparation in Ethiopia: A Critical Analysis of Reforms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Semela, Tesfaye

2014-01-01

The purpose of this article is to provide a more comprehensive picture of teacher preparation in Ethiopia on top of a closer scrutiny of current teacher education reforms. In particular, it presents teacher education within the context of policy implementation over the last six decades by highlighting key reforms and how these reforms impacted the…

Research on School Bullying and Victimization: What Have We Learned and Where Do We Go from Here?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Espelage, Dorothy L.; Swearer, Susan M.

2003-01-01

This special issue on bullying and victimization in "School Psychology Review" highlights current research efforts in American schools on bullying and peer victimization, and how this research can inform prevention and intervention planning. This introductory article provides a brief overview of several major insights gained over the last decade…

The Experiences of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students at a Queensland University: 1985-2005

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hyde, Merv; Punch, Renee; Power, Des; Hartley, Judy; Neale, Jennifer; Brennan, Lesleigh

2009-01-01

This article reports on the experiences of deaf and hard of hearing students at a Queensland university, which offers an extensive deaf student support program. Seventy-two current students and graduates since the program's inception twenty years ago completed a survey about their experiences, highlights, challenges and use of communication tools…

Keeping Current: Doing It with Style for Different Folks: Learning Styles for School Library Media Specialists.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barron, Daniel D.

1997-01-01

Understanding learning styles can help teachers get beyond lecture, text, and test. This article reviews some of the research and literature on learning styles, highlighting the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, the Keirsey Temperament Sorter, the 4-MAT System, and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Includes related Web sites and print resources. (PEN)

All for One and One for All: 2013 NAGC Presidential Address

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cross, Tracy L.

2014-01-01

This article presents highlights from the Presidential Address, "All for One and One for All," by Tracy L. Cross, current president of the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), at the 60th annual convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, November 7-10, 2013. He congratulates Indiana as having one of the richest histories of any…

Advances and issues in personal care.

PubMed

Stone, Robyn; Newcomer, Robert

2009-02-01

The focus of this article is paid personal assistant service (PAS) workers in community settings, and the converging current and future trends affecting the need to strengthen and expand the PAS workforce. A number of ways in which the federal and state governments, and the private sector can begin to solve the short and long-term workforce challenges are highlighted.

A Critical Appraisal of Issues in Differential Response: Moving the Field Forward

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Winokur, Marc A.; Gabel, George

2013-01-01

This reaction article highlights areas of agreement and disagreement with the study conducted by Hughes, Rycus, Saunders-Adams, Hughes, and Hughes on the current state of research and practice in differential response (DR). Overall, we agree with several of the arguments put forth by Hughes et al. regarding the limitations of DR research and the…

Engaging communities and climate change futures with Multi-Scale, Iterative Scenario Building (MISB) in the western United States

Treesearch

Daniel Murphy; Carina Wyborn; Laurie Yung; Daniel R. Williams; Cory Cleveland; Lisa Eby; Solomon Dobrowski; Erin Towler

2016-01-01

Current projections of future climate change foretell potentially transformative ecological changes that threaten communities globally. Using two case studies from the United States Intermountain West, this article highlights the ways in which a better articulation between theory and methods in research design can generate proactive applied tools that enable...

College and Career Readiness for Gifted African American Girls: A Call to School Counselors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mayes, Renae D.; Hines, Erik M.

2014-01-01

Current literature on college and career readiness highlights the role of educators in promoting the success of all students. However, few studies have focused on the specific needs of gifted African American girls. This article discusses the school experiences and career development of gifted African American girls and it provides a culturally…

The Role of Parental Involvement in India: A Context-Based Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saravanabhavan, Rc; Saravanabhavan, Sheila; Muthaiah, N.

2012-01-01

The article presents a historical overview of education in India, followed by a background on current demography, governance structures, and status. The role of parent involvement is traced from ancient times to the modern era to highlight how this phenomenon has evolved. A review of recent national policies stemming from the 2009 Right of…

Widening Participation, Social Justice and Injustice: Part-Time Students in Higher Education in England

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Callender, Claire

2011-01-01

This article critically assesses the nature and scope of current financial support for part-time undergraduates in England, highlighting its importance for widening participation. It considers the limitations of these financial arrangements, why they are in need of reform, and some of the consequences of their inadequacies. The paper argues that…

Controversies about sugars consumption: state of the science.

PubMed

Rippe, James M; Marcos, Ascensión

2016-11-01

Few topics in nutrition generate more controversy and debate than the putative associations between added sugars and health. With this as background, a group of researchers in the area of sugars and health gathered at the European Nutrition Conference (FENS) in 2015 to discuss these controversies and provide evidence-based science. The purpose of the current article was to provide a brief summary of some of the highlights from each of the presenters and serve as an Introduction to the supplement which contains full articles based on their presentations.

Use of "serious health games" in health care: a review.

PubMed

Adams, Samantha A

2010-01-01

This inter-disciplinary literature review examines current and potential uses of so-called "Serious Games" in health care. Based on a core body of 51 articles about Serious Games (12 pertaining specifically to health care), it briefly examines examples of use for training professionals, but focuses mostly on how games are used for patient treatment or education and how they can be used for disease prevention and health promotion. This article highlights considerations that must be made when designing and implementing Serious Games for these purposes.

Family wellbeing of individuals with autism spectrum disorder: A scoping review.

PubMed

Tint, Ami; Weiss, Jonathan A

2016-04-01

Families play an important role in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder across the lifespan. Indicators of family wellbeing can help to establish benchmarks for service provision and evaluation; however, a critical first step is a clear understanding of the construct in question. The purpose of the current scoping review was to (a) summarize current conceptualizations and measurements of family wellbeing, (b) synthesize key findings, and (c) highlight gaps and limitations in the extant literature. A final review of 86 articles highlighted the difficulty of synthesizing findings of family wellbeing in the autism spectrum disorder literature due to varied measurement techniques and the limited use of a common theoretical direction. Considerations for future research are presented with an eye toward policy relevance. © The Author(s) 2015.

Histiocytic proliferations.

PubMed

Ranganathan, Sarangarajan

2016-11-01

The study of Histiocytic lesions has been a passion of Pepper Dehner over the years. He has contributed several case series and reviews on various categories of these diseases for over 4 decades, with his earliest articles in the 1970s. He has written on all aspects of the disease including seminal articles on Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) and their prognostic features, his experiences with regressing atypical histiocytosis, his encounters with malignant histiocytosis, and classic articles on juvenile xanthogranuloma. His contributions in the form of chapters in his 2 editions of the unique Pediatric Pathology textbook are no less important than his many articles. His experience with these lesions is highlighted in the 2 editions of the book, and the author and the audience is left wishing for more in a more current version. This article is more of a journey from descriptions and understanding of these various histiocytic syndromes to the current understanding and classifications with molecular inputs and recent advances. This article is dedicated to a master Clinician, Pathologist, and mentor whose contributions to the field of Pediatric Pathology makes him deserve beyond all doubt the title of "Father of Modern Pediatric Pathology." Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Oral Biofluid Biomarker Research: Current Status and Emerging Frontiers

PubMed Central

Wang, Austin; Wang, Chris P.; Tu, Michael; Wong, David T.W.

2016-01-01

Salivary diagnostics is a rapidly advancing field that offers clinicians and patients the potential of rapid, noninvasive diagnostics with excellent accuracy. In order for the complete realization of the potential of saliva, however, extensive profiling of constituents must be conducted and diagnostic biomarkers must be thoroughly validated. This article briefly overviews the process of conducting a study of salivary biomarkers in a patient cohort and highlights the studies that have been conducted on different classes of molecules in the saliva. Emerging frontiers in salivary diagnostics research that may significantly advance the field will also be highlighted. PMID:27999326

Sample of a client intake information protocol: a synopsis and rationale.

PubMed

Green, Shari

2012-11-01

The utilization of standardized comprehensive forms in the field of orofacial myology is crucial as this profession continues to grow and establish assessment and treatment protocols. This article formally presents a comprehensive health history intake form currently in use, and highlights the rationale for each particular question within this form in an effort to explore the evidence-based theory behind each question utilized. Highlighting the importance of obtaining a thorough health history as it pertains to our profession, personally allows the clinician to ultimately best plan a therapeutic strategy and assess the individual criteria necessary for successful orofacial myofunctional habituation.

The ‘structure-function’ relationship in glaucoma – past thinking and current concepts

PubMed Central

Malik, Rizwan; Swanson, William H.; Garway-Heath, David F

2013-01-01

An understanding of the relationship between functional and structural measures in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is necessary for both grading the severity of disease and for understanding the natural history of the condition. This article outlines the current evidence for the nature of this relationship, and highlights the current mathematical models linking structure and function. Large clinical trials demonstrate that both structural and functional change are apparent in advanced stages of disease, while, at an individual level, detectable structural abnormality may precede functional abnormality in some patients whilst the converse in true in other patients. Although the exact nature of the ‘structure-function’ relationship in POAG is still the topic of scientific debate and the subject of continuing research, this article aims to provide the clinician with an understanding of the past concepts and contemporary thinking in relation to the structure-function relationship in POAG. PMID:22339936

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): A Beginner's Guide for Design and Implementation

PubMed Central

Thair, Hayley; Holloway, Amy L.; Newport, Roger; Smith, Alastair D.

2017-01-01

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a popular brain stimulation method that is used to modulate cortical excitability, producing facilitatory or inhibitory effects upon a variety of behaviors. There is, however, a current lack of consensus between studies, with many results suggesting that polarity-specific effects are difficult to obtain. This article explores some of these differences and highlights the experimental parameters that may underlie their occurrence. We provide a general, practical snapshot of tDCS methodology, including what it is used for, how to use it, and considerations for designing an effective and safe experiment. Our aim is to equip researchers who are new to tDCS with the essential knowledge so that they can make informed and well-rounded decisions when designing and running successful experiments. By summarizing the varied approaches, stimulation parameters, and outcomes, this article should help inform future tDCS research in a variety of fields. PMID:29213226

Anthropological discourses on the globalization of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in post-conflict societies.

PubMed

Moghimi, Yavar

2012-01-01

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a construct that has moved far beyond its origins in Veterans Administration hospitals after the Vietnam War. It is now commonly used in post-conflict societies by humanitarian agencies and researchers. This article looks at the ever-growing expansion of PTSD and reviews medical anthropologists' critiques of this cross-cultural dissemination of Western psychiatric knowledge. The article also reviews post-conflict ethnographies and their results, which often highlight a mismatch between local priorities and the psycho-social services being provided by outside agencies. Finally, the author highlights interventions that are currently being undertaken by humanitarian agencies in an attempt to bridge psychiatric expertise and local forms of healing. Although PTSD is a useful construct for conceptualizing the experience of those who have suffered traumatic events, it does not lend itself to universal cross-cultural application and should be cautiously applied in post-conflict societies.

The Corporate Coauthor

PubMed Central

Fugh-Berman, Adriane

2005-01-01

Drug marketing techniques include the sponsorship of articles signed by academic physicians or researchers and submitted to peer-reviewed medical journals. Some of these articles are authored or coauthored by ghostwriters who work for pharmaceutical companies or medical education companies hired by pharmaceutical companies. Conflicts of interest may be difficult to detect in the subset of articles and presentations sponsored by pharmaceutical companies that never mention the targeted drug, but focus on stimulating the perceived need for the targeted drug or highlighting problems with competing drugs. The current voluntary standards for declaring conflicts of interest to readers of medical journals and audiences at medical conferences are inadequate. A public database that contains conflicts of interest of physicians and researchers would be useful. PMID:15987332

Nanotechnology and nuclear medicine; research and preclinical applications.

PubMed

Assadi, Majid; Afrasiabi, Kolsoom; Nabipour, Iraj; Seyedabadi, Mohammad

2011-01-01

The birth of nanotechnology in human society was around 2000 years ago and soon found applications in various fields. In this article, we highlight the current status of research and preclinical applications and also future prospects of nanotechnology in medicine and in nuclear medicine. The most important field is cancer. A regular nanotechnology training program for nuclear medicine physicians may be welcome.

Preparing School Social Work for the Future: An Update of School Social Workers' Tasks in Iowa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peckover, Christopher A.; Vasquez, Matthew L.; Van Housen, Stephanie L.; Saunders, Jeanne A.; Allen, Larry

2013-01-01

The authors begin this article by highlighting clinical social casework as a historic trend in school social work practice. They then identify two major shifts in current education policy related to school social work practice. One shift is an emphasis on a multilevel intervention approach, and the other is the differentiation between academic and…

Resources for Teaching Astronomy in UK Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roche, Paul; Newsam, Andy; Roberts, Sarah; Mason, Tom; Baruch, John

2012-01-01

This article looks at a selection of resources currently available for use in the teaching of astronomy in UK schools. It is by no means an exhaustive list but it highlights a variety of free resources that can be used in the classroom to help engage students of all ages with astronomy and space science. It also lists several facilities with a…

Self and Identity in Early Adolescence: Some Reflections and an Introduction to the Special Issue

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Seth J.

2008-01-01

This article reviews contemporary issues in the study of self and identity and introduces the special issue. Particularly highlighted are the need to integrate the various currents in self and identity, the need to study the role of context in the development of self and identity, research on self and identity in ethnic minority and international…

Primary osseous tumors of the pediatric spinal column: review of pathology and surgical decision making.

PubMed

Ravindra, Vijay M; Eli, Ilyas M; Schmidt, Meic H; Brockmeyer, Douglas L

2016-08-01

Spinal column tumors are rare in children and young adults, accounting for only 1% of all spine and spinal cord tumors combined. They often present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In this article, the authors review the current management of primary osseous tumors of the pediatric spinal column and highlight diagnosis, management, and surgical decision making.

Towards an Understanding of Factors Influencing Early Years Professionals' Practice of Consultation with Young Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davies, Sarah; Artaraz, Kepa

2009-01-01

Recent Government agendas in England highlight a need to involve children in policy and service design, provision and evaluation of services they use or which affect them. While consultation with older children has become more common, this is not the case for younger children. This article reports on a study exploring the current practice and…

A traditional Chinese remedy points to a natural skin habitat: Indirubin (indigo naturalis) for psoriasis and the Malassezia metabolome.

PubMed

Gaitanis, G; Magiatis, P; Velegraki, A; Bassukas, I D

2018-05-23

We read with extreme interest the evidence for an impressively high, comparable to current systemic therapies, dose related efficacy of indirubin in plaque psoriasis. 1 Lin and co-authors 1 appropriately discuss their results, yet we would like to draw attention to a noteworthy aspect of the proposed therapeutic modality: The effectiveness of indirubin highlights the significance of the Malassezia metabolome in psoriasis, a long-term disputed issue. 2 This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Global health: governance and policy development.

PubMed

Kelley, Patrick W

2011-06-01

Global health policy is now being influenced by an ever-increasing number of nonstate and non-intergovernmental actors to include influential foundations, multinational corporations, multi-sectoral partnerships, and civil society organizations. This article reviews how globalization is a key driver for the ongoing evolution of global health governance. It describes the massive increases in bilateral and multilateral investments in global health and it highlights the current global and US architecture for performing global health programs. The article closes describing some of the challenges and prospects that characterize global health governance today. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Workplace diversity and public policy: challenges and opportunities for psychology.

PubMed

Fassinger, Ruth E

2008-01-01

This article outlines both challenges and opportunities for psychology of issues related to diversity in education and work. For the purposes of this discussion, "diverse" populations include four groups currently marginalized and disadvantaged in the U.S. workplace: women, people of color, sexual minorities, and people with disabilities. An overview of employment participation patterns for these groups is presented, workplace barriers arising from marginalized status are highlighted, and the article concludes with a discussion of work-related legislative and public policy fronts that can be informed and influenced by the contributions of psychologists. Copyright (c) 2008 APA, all rights reserved.

Finding value from IT investments: exploring the elusive ROI in healthcare.

PubMed

Vogel, Lynn H

2003-01-01

This article explores the historical IT value research, discusses its applicability to IT investments in healthcare, and highlights how it is challenged by several factors unique to the healthcare industry. The integration of historical IT value research with healthcare industry attributes provides an important context for understanding why the IT value proposition in healthcare has been so elusive. The article also poses a set of guidelines, which, based on the IT value research outside of healthcare, may assist in alleviating some of the current frustration with determining the value of healthcare IT investments.

Managing Asthma in Low-Income, Underrepresented Minority, and Other Disadvantaged Pediatric Populations: Closing the Gap.

PubMed

Louisias, Margee; Phipatanakul, Wanda

2017-09-15

In this article, we review current understanding of the epidemiology and etiology of disparities in asthma. We also highlight current and emerging literature on solutions to tackle disparities while underscoring gaps and pressing future directions. Tailored, multicomponent approaches including the home, school, and clinician-based interventions show great promise. Managing asthma in disadvantaged populations can be challenging as they tend to have disproportionately worse outcomes due to a multitude of factors. However, multifaceted, innovative interventions that are sustainable and scalable are key to improving outcomes.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Koester, C J; Moulik, A

This article discusses developments in environmental analytical chemistry that occurred in the years of 2003 and 2004. References were found by searching the ''Science Citation Index and Current Contents''. As in our review of two years ago (A1), techniques are highlighted that represent current trends and state-of-the-art technologies in the sampling, extraction, separation, and detection of trace concentrations, low-part-per-billion and less, of organic, inorganic, and organometallic contaminants in environmental samples. New analytes of interest are also reviewed, the detections of which are made possible by recently developed analytical instruments and methods.

A Research Agenda on Assessing and Remediating Home Dampness and Mold to Reduce Dampness-Related Health Effects

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mendell, Mark J.

2015-06-01

This report briefly summarizes, based on recent review articles and selected more recent research reports, current scientific knowledge on two topics: assessing unhealthy levels of indoor D/M in homes and remediating home dampness-related problems to protect health. Based on a comparison of current scientific knowledge to that required to support effective, evidence-based, health-protective policies on home D/M, gaps in knowledge are highlighted, prior questions and research questions specified, and necessary research activities and approaches recommended.

[Current recommendations for basic/advanced life support : Addressing unanswered questions and future prospects].

PubMed

Fink, K; Schmid, B; Busch, H-J

2016-11-01

The revised guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation were implemented by the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) in October 2015. There were few changes concerning basic and advanced life support; however, some issues were clarified compared to the ERC recommendations from 2010. The present paper summarizes the procedures of basic and advanced life support according to the current guidelines and highlights the updates of 2015. Furthermore, the article depicts future prospects of cardiopulmonary resuscitation that may improve outcome of patients after cardiac arrest in the future.

Health Information System Role-Based Access Control Current Security Trends and Challenges.

PubMed

de Carvalho Junior, Marcelo Antonio; Bandiera-Paiva, Paulo

2018-01-01

This article objective is to highlight implementation characteristics, concerns, or limitations over role-based access control (RBAC) use on health information system (HIS) using industry-focused literature review of current publishing for that purpose. Based on the findings, assessment for indication of RBAC is obsolete considering HIS authorization control needs. We have selected articles related to our investigation theme "RBAC trends and limitations" in 4 different sources related to health informatics or to the engineering technical field. To do so, we have applied the following search query string: "Role-Based Access Control" OR "RBAC" AND "Health information System" OR "EHR" AND "Trends" OR "Challenges" OR "Security" OR "Authorization" OR "Attacks" OR "Permission Assignment" OR "Permission Relation" OR "Permission Mapping" OR "Constraint". We followed PRISMA applicable flow and general methodology used on software engineering for systematic review. 20 articles were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria resulting contributions from 10 different countries. 17 articles advocate RBAC adaptations. The main security trends and limitations mapped were related to emergency access, grant delegation, and interdomain access control. Several publishing proposed RBAC adaptations and enhancements in order to cope current HIS use characteristics. Most of the existent RBAC studies are not related to health informatics industry though. There is no clear indication of RBAC obsolescence for HIS use.

REVIEW ARTICLE: Current trends and future requirements for the mass spectrometric investigation of microbial, mammalian and plant metabolomes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunn, Warwick B.

2008-03-01

The functional levels of biological cells or organisms can be separated into the genome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome. Of these the metabolome offers specific advantages to the investigation of the phenotype of biological systems. The investigation of the metabolome (metabolomics) has only recently appeared as a mainstream scientific discipline and is currently developing rapidly for the study of microbial, plant and mammalian metabolomes. The metabolome pipeline or workflow encompasses the processes of sample collection and preparation, collection of analytical data, raw data pre-processing, data analysis and data storage. Of these processes the collection of analytical data will be discussed in this review with specific interest shown in the application of mass spectrometry in the metabolomics pipeline. The current developments in mass spectrometry platforms (GC-MS, LC-MS, DIMS and imaging MS) and applications of specific interest will be highlighted. The current limitations of these platforms and applications will be discussed with areas requiring further development also highlighted. These include the detectable coverage of the metabolome, the identification of metabolites and the process of converting raw data to biological knowledge.

Rational design of nanofiber scaffolds for orthopedic tissue repair and regeneration

PubMed Central

Ma, Bing; Xie, Jingwei; Jiang, Jiang; Shuler, Franklin D; Bartlett, David E

2013-01-01

This article reviews recent significant advances in the design of nanofiber scaffolds for orthopedic tissue repair and regeneration. It begins with a brief introduction on the limitations of current approaches for orthopedic tissue repair and regeneration. It then illustrates that rationally designed scaffolds made up of electrospun nanofibers could be a promising solution to overcome the problems that current approaches encounter. The article also discusses the intriguing properties of electrospun nanofibers, including control of composition, structures, orders, alignments and mechanical properties, use as carriers for topical drug and/or gene sustained delivery, and serving as substrates for the regulation of cell behaviors, which could benefit musculoskeletal tissue repair and regeneration. It further highlights a few of the many recent applications of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds in repairing and regenerating various orthopedic tissues. Finally, the article concludes with perspectives on the challenges and future directions for better design, fabrication and utilization of nanofiber scaffolds for orthopedic tissue engineering. PMID:23987110

Validity of Current Treatment Protocols to Overcome Hypochondriasis

PubMed Central

Srivastava, Meher Narain

2017-01-01

Hypochondriasis has been difficult to define and its classification amongst diseases has been blurred since, time immemorial. Though decades have been passed since its discovery and known to the people that the disorder is of the mind itself, the treatment options are still limited for the disorder and therefore, in dire need of exploration and analysis. Hypochondriasis, also sometimes referred to as health anxiety, is much more common in general health ward than previously accounted for. Thus, an efficient way of its management needs to be formulated and this review article helps to shed out light on the current treatment protocol available for hypochondriasis and their efficacy for the same. The treatment modules for hypochondriasis are unfortunately few and limited. None of the review articles have evaluated the efficacy of the tried treatment interventions and through this review article we want to highlight the same. A Medline search of the relevant publications and the references of the studies were incorporated to obtain the data. PMID:28274027

Home automation in the workplace.

PubMed

McCormack, J E; Tello, S F

1994-01-01

Environmental control units and home automation devices contribute to the independence and potential of individuals with disabilities, both at work and at home. Devices currently exist that can assist people with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities to control lighting, appliances, temperature, security, and telephone communications. This article highlights several possible applications for these technologies and discusses emerging technologies that will increase the benefits these devices offer people with disabilities.

Developmental Characteristics of Young Dual Language Learners: Implications for Policy and Practice in Infant and Toddler Care

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Castro, Dina C.; Espinosa, Linda M.

2014-01-01

This article discusses the current knowledge on the developmental characteristics and contexts of care for infants and toddlers who are growing up in bilingual environments at home and in their early care settings in the united States. The authors highlight relevant findings from the work of the Center of Early Care and Education Research-Dual…

Haunted by Math: The Impact of Policy and Practice on Students with Math Learning Disabilities in the Transition to Post-Secondary Education in Mumbai, India

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eichhorn, Melinda S.

2016-01-01

Only six states in India currently identify learning disabilities as a category of disability. This article highlights the challenges students with math learning disabilities face in their transition from secondary school to higher secondary education and Bachelor of Commerce degree programs in the state of Maharashtra. While the current…

Analysis of an industry in transition.

PubMed

Baliga, B R; Johnson, B

1986-12-01

The health care industry is undergoing major structural changes. The significance of these changes for individual competitors moving toward the 1990s is not yet clear. This article assesses the implications of the current changes by applying Porter's industry structure and generic strategy frameworks to the health care industry. Present trends are compared to this analysis to highlight areas where individual hospitals might improve their competitive positioning.

Consumers in mental health service leadership: A systematic review.

PubMed

Scholz, Brett; Gordon, Sarah; Happell, Brenda

2017-02-01

Contemporary mental health policies call for greater involvement of mental health service consumers in all aspects and at all levels of service planning, delivery, and evaluation. The extent to which consumers are part of the decision-making function of mental health organizations varies. This systematic review synthesizes empirical and review studies published in peer-reviewed academic journals relating to consumers in leadership roles within mental health organizations. The Cochrane Library, Medline, and PsycINFO were searched for articles specifically analysing and discussing consumers' mental health service leadership. Each article was critically appraised against the inclusion criteria, with 36 articles included in the final review. The findings of the review highlight current understandings of organizational resources and structures in consumer-led organizations, determinants of leadership involvement, and how consumer leadership interacts with traditional mental health service provision. It appears that organizations might still be negotiating the balance between consumer leadership and traditional structures and systems. The majority of included studies represent research about consumer-run organizations, with consumer leadership in mainstream mental health organizations being less represented in the literature. Advocates of consumer leadership should focus more on emphasizing how such leadership itself can be a valuable resource for organizations and how this can be better articulated. This review highlights the current gaps in understandings of consumer leadership in mental health, including a need for more research exploring the benefits of consumer leadership for other consumers of services. © 2016 Australian College of Mental Health Nurses Inc.

Pull of Gravity: A Media Review Focusing on the Social and Environmental Effects of Recidivism.

PubMed

Mejia, Lidyvez

2016-01-01

Recidivism is defined as reincarceration, reconviction and/or being reimprisoned. This article focuses on the issues of recidivism while incorporating Pull of Gravity, a documentary, which highlights the challenges ex-offenders encounter during postrelease. This article explores 3 sociological issues closely related to recidivism: (1) types of populations that are recidivating, (2) communities' ex-offenders are returning home to, and (3) challenges they face in their transition. This article integrates research on issues of reentry and utilizes real-life experiences reflected through this film to give readers a tangible perception on the challenges that are currently faced. It explores possible resolutions while prompting critical thinking for everyone; individuals who are familiar with this topic and those who are foreign.

The Relative Value Unit: History, Current Use, and Controversies.

PubMed

Baadh, Amanjit; Peterkin, Yuri; Wegener, Melanie; Flug, Jonathan; Katz, Douglas; Hoffmann, Jason C

2016-01-01

The relative value unit (RVU) is an important measuring tool for the work performed by physicians, and is currently used in the United States to calculate physician reimbursement. An understanding of radiology RVUs and current procedural terminology codes is important for radiologists, trainees, radiology managers, and administrators, as this knowledge would help them to understand better their current productivity and reimbursement, as well as controversies regarding reimbursement, and permit them to adapt to reimbursement changes that may occur in the future. This article reviews the components of the RVU and how radiology payment is calculated, highlights trends in RVUs and resultant payment for diagnostic and therapeutic imaging and examinations, and discusses current issues involving RVU and current procedural terminology codes. Copyright © 2015 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Politics of Science: Unwarranted Encounters.

PubMed

Kanchan, Tanuj; Krishan, Kewal

2016-10-01

This communication highlights a very pertinent and recent case of an erroneous representation of the Indian borders in an article 'India by the numbers' by Richard Van Noorden in Nature ( http://www.nature.com/news/india-by-the-numbers-1.17519 ) where a considerable part of the Jammu and Kashmir State of India is missing in the map incorporated in the article. The article received a series of comments showing disappointment on the issue and a need for the correction to the depicted Indian borders. The editor instead of making corrections to the map has issued a statement that 'the map shows land areas currently administered by the Indian Government', that in no way can be considered as an acceptable argument. We wish the focus of this well written article had remained on science rather than introducing unnecessary controversies.

Current and novel therapeutic strategies in celiac disease.

PubMed

Kurada, Satya; Yadav, Abhijeet; Leffler, Daniel A

2016-09-01

A gluten free diet (GFD) is the only available treatment for celiac disease (CD). However many patients fail to respond fully clinically or histologically. Several surveys highlight the psychosocial implications of adherence to a GFD. Hence, efforts are ongoing to develop therapeutic strategies beyond a GFD. We conducted a search of PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov to extract articles on CD using keywords including 'celiac disease' and 'refractory celiac disease' (RCD) and focused on articles conducting pathophysiologic and therapeutic research in/ex-vivo models and human trials. We highlight novel therapeutics that manipulate these mechanisms including tight junction regulators, glutenases, gluten sequestrants and immunotherapy using vaccines, nanoparticles that may serve as adjuncts to a GFD or more ambitiously to allow for gluten consumption. We also highlight the role of anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants and monoclonal antibodies in RCD. Expert commentary: Therapeutics including tight junction regulators, glutenases have the potential to be approved for non-responsive CD or as gluten adjuncts. We expect results of various phase 1/2 trials using AMG 714, BL 7010, IgY antibodies to be published. In the interim, off-label use of 5 amino-salicylates, budesonide, nucleoside analogues and newer biologics developed for other inflammatory diseases will be used in RCD.

The many shades of prion strain adaptation.

PubMed

Baskakov, Ilia V

2014-01-01

In several recent studies transmissible prion disease was induced in animals by inoculation with recombinant prion protein amyloid fibrils produced in vitro. Serial transmission of amyloid fibrils gave rise to a new class of prion strains of synthetic origin. Gradual transformation of disease phenotypes and PrP(Sc) properties was observed during serial transmission of synthetic prions, a process that resembled the phenomenon of prion strain adaptation. The current article discusses the remarkable parallels between phenomena of prion strain adaptation that accompanies cross-species transmission and the evolution of synthetic prions occurring within the same host. Two alternative mechanisms underlying prion strain adaptation and synthetic strain evolution are discussed. The current article highlights the complexity of the prion transmission barrier and strain adaptation and proposes that the phenomenon of prion adaptation is more common than previously thought.

Defining technology dependence in children and adolescents.

PubMed

Spratling, Regena

2015-05-01

The purpose of this review was to identify current terms and definitions used to identify and describe children and adolescents who require technology. A total of 400 articles published from January 2000 through May 2012 were reviewed; 26 articles met the inclusion criteria. The review included only primary research studies that focused on a child and adolescent sample (birth to 18 years old) who required technology. Current terms and definitions used to describe children and adolescents who require technology include technology and complex care. Technology is a constant in both terminology and definitions, and it differentiates this population from the general population of children with chronic illness and special health care needs. This review highlights the need for better, more detailed descriptions of the population of children and adolescents who require technology in their daily lives. © The Author(s) 2014.

European League against rheumatism - selected presentation and poster a highlights June 11th to 13th 2013.

PubMed

Braddock, Martin

2014-02-01

The heterogeneous pathology of many autoimmune diseases warrants the continual discovery and development of new drugs. Drawing on selected oral presentations and selected poster displays, this article highlights some new developments in the pharmacological validation of molecular targets implicated in inflammatory autoimmune disease and may be of direct importance to scientists working in this field. This report describes the current state of the pharmacology of selected drugs and targets which may have utility in modulating immune function and autoimmune inflammatory disease. Many new molecules are progressing through clinical development for the treatment of rheumatological diseases. The value of the basic nonclinical and clinical research presented is to further pharmacological knowledge of the molecule, better understand the benefit-risk associated with clinical development and to assist in supporting the potential position of a new drug in the current treatment paradigm.

Genotoxicity of metal nanoparticles.

PubMed

Xie, Hong; Mason, Michael M; Wise, John Pierce

2011-01-01

Nanotechnology is currently used in industry, medicine, and military applications, as well as in more than 300 commercial products. Yet, the same properties that make these particles exciting for technology also make them daunting public health concerns because their toxicity is unknown and relatively unexplored. Increased attention is being placed on the study of metal particle genotoxicity; however, a lot of unknowns remain about their effects and the mechanisms. In this article, we highlight some metal and metal oxide nanoparticles of interest and discuss the current in vivo and in vitro studies of genotoxic effects. Many metal nanoparticles were found to cause chromosomal aberrations, DNA strand breaks, oxidative DNA damage, and mutations. Inconsistencies are found in the literature, however, thus drawing conclusions is difficult due to a variety of factors. Therefore, the areas requiring further attention are highlighted and recommendations to improve our understanding of the genotoxic potential are addressed.

Decision making about healthcare-related tests and diagnostic test strategies. Paper 2: a review of methodological and practical challenges.

PubMed

Mustafa, Reem A; Wiercioch, Wojtek; Cheung, Adrienne; Prediger, Barbara; Brozek, Jan; Bossuyt, Patrick; Garg, Amit X; Lelgemann, Monika; Büehler, Diedrich; Schünemann, Holger J

2017-12-01

In this first of a series of five articles, we provide an overview of how and why healthcare-related tests and diagnostic strategies are currently applied. We also describe how our findings can be integrated with existing frameworks for making decisions that guide the use of healthcare-related tests and diagnostic strategies. We searched MEDLINE, references of identified articles, chapters in relevant textbooks, and identified articles citing classic literature on this topic. We provide updated frameworks for the potential roles and applications of tests with suggested definitions and practical examples. We also discuss study designs that are commonly used to assess tests' performance and the effects of tests on people's health. These designs include diagnostic randomized controlled trials and retrospective validation. We describe the utility of these and other currently suggested designs, which questions they can answer and which ones they cannot. In addition, we summarize the challenges unique to decision-making resulting from the use of tests. This overview highlights current challenges in the application of tests in decision-making in healthcare, provides clarifications, and informs the proposed solutions. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A change management approach to improving safety and preventing needle stick injuries.

PubMed

Aziz, Ann-Marie

2017-09-01

Key drivers for preventing healthcare-associated infection (HCAI) include evidence-based practices and procedures that prevent infection. Among the current guidance for preventing HCAIs is evidence and mandatory requirements for reducing needle stick injuries (NSIs). This article highlights how John Kotter's model for change could help healthcare workers plan for successful and sustained deployment of needle safety devices (NSDs) and ultimately reduce the risk of a NSI.

Using the Internet to Improve HRD Research: The Case of the Web-Based Delphi Research Technique to Achieve Content Validity of an HRD-Oriented Measurement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hatcher, Tim; Colton, Sharon

2007-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to highlight the results of the online Delphi research project; in particular the procedures used to establish an online and innovative process of content validation and obtaining "rich" and descriptive information using the internet and current e-learning technologies. The online Delphi was proven to be an…

The Current State of the System of Mechanisms of Realisation and Protection of the Rights of the Child: Conceptual and Legal Aspects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drozdova, Alexandra Michailowna; Gulakova, Violetta Yurevna; Ivanchenko, Elena Anatolevna; Lesnichenko, Inna Pavlovna; Tereshchenko, Elena Anatolevna

2016-01-01

The article is devoted to the analytical understanding of the problems in the field of realisation and protection of the rights of children in Russia to identify and highlight existing problems in order to try to remove shortcomings and embark on further development and improvement of the legal and social mechanisms for the protection of…

Launch of Zoological Letters.

PubMed

Fukatsu, Takema; Kuratani, Shigeru

2016-02-01

A new open-access journal, Zoological Letters, was launched as a sister journal to Zoological Science, in January 2015. The new journal aims at publishing topical papers of high quality from a wide range of basic zoological research fields. This review highlights the notable reviews and research articles that have been published in the first year of Zoological Letters, providing an overview on the current achievements and future directions of the journal.

Childbirth Education for Parents Experiencing Pregnancy after Perinatal Loss

PubMed Central

Wright, Patricia Moyle

2005-01-01

Expectant parents who have experienced previous perinatal loss have special concerns, which can be partially addressed by modifying prepared childbirth education courses. This article presents a review of current literature, highlighting the unique needs of expectant parents who have experienced previous pregnancy loss. Modifications to traditional childbirth education courses are suggested, which include addressing parents' grief, managing anxiety, and facilitating communication with health-care providers and others. PMID:17273448

Single-Chain Folding of Synthetic Polymers: A Critical Update.

PubMed

Altintas, Ozcan; Barner-Kowollik, Christopher

2015-11-23

The current contribution serves as a critical update to a previous feature article from us (Macromol. Rapid Commun. 2012, 33, 958-971), and highlights the latest advances in the preparation of single chain polymeric nanoparticles and initial-yet promising-attempts towards mimicking the structure of natural biomacromolecules via single-chain folding of well-defined linear polymers via so-called single chain selective point folding and repeat unit folding. The contribution covers selected examples from the literature published up to ca. September 2015. Our aim is not to provide an exhaustive review but rather highlight a selection of new and exciting examples for single-chain folding based on advanced macromolecular precision chemistry. Initially, the discussion focuses on the synthesis and characterization of single-chain folded structures via selective point folding. The second part of the feature article addresses the folding of well-defined single-chain polymers by means of repeat unit folding. The current state of the art in the field of single-chain folding indicates that repeat unit folding-driven nanoparticle preparation is well-advanced, while initial encouraging steps towards building selective point folding systems have been taken. In addition, a summary of the-in our view-open key questions is provided that may guide future biomimetic design efforts. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Climate change, species-area curves and the extinction crisis.

PubMed

Lewis, Owen T

2006-01-29

An article published in the journal Nature in January 2004-in which an international team of biologists predicted that climate change would, by 2050, doom 15-37% of the earth's species to extinction-attracted unprecedented, worldwide media attention. The predictions conflict with the conventional wisdom that habitat change and modification are the most important causes of current and future extinctions. The new extinction projections come from applying a well-known ecological pattern, the species-area relationship (SAR), to data on the current distributions and climatic requirements of 1103 species. Here, I examine the scientific basis to the claims made in the Nature article. I first highlight the potential and pitfalls of using the SAR to predict extinctions in general. I then consider the additional complications that arise when applying SAR methods specifically to climate change. I assess the extent to which these issues call into question predictions of extinctions from climate change relative to other human impacts, and highlight a danger that conservation resources will be directed away from attempts to slow and mitigate the continuing effects of habitat destruction and degradation, particularly in the tropics. I suggest that the most useful contributions of ecologists over the coming decades will be in partitioning likely extinctions among interacting causes and identifying the practical means to slow the rate of species loss.

What research tells us about knowledge transfer strategies to improve public health in low-income countries: a scoping review.

PubMed

Siron, Stéphanie; Dagenais, Christian; Ridde, Valéry

2015-11-01

This study describes the current state of research on knowledge transfer strategies to improve public health in low-income countries, to identify the knowledge gaps on this topic. In this scoping review, a descriptive and systematic process was used to analyse, for each article retained, descriptions of research context and methods, types of knowledge transfer activities and results reported. 28 articles were analysed. They dealt with the evaluation of transfer strategies that employed multiple activities, mostly targeting health professionals and women with very young children. Most often these studies used quantitative designs and measurements of instrumental use with some methodological shortcomings. Results were positive and suggested recommendations for improving professional practices, knowledge and health-related behaviours. The review highlights the great diversity of transfer strategies used, strategies and many conditions for knowledge use. The review provides specific elements for understanding the transfer processes in low-income countries and highlights the need for systematic evaluation of the conditions for research results utilization.

Assessment in health psychology: Introduction to the special issue.

PubMed

Butt, Zeeshan

2016-09-01

For the past 27 years, Psychological Assessment has been committed to publishing empirical research relevant to clinical assessment of basic and applied cognition, personality, interpersonal behavior, psychopathology, forensics, and biological psychology. There is growing interest in the use of patient-centered outcomes in medical/surgical care and for measuring health care performance. Patient-centered outcome measures complement traditional clinical outcomes of morbidity and mortality, capturing the patient’s perspective regarding their health and its treatment. In this issue, we highlight 11 articles that address different aspects of such work. The articles in this special issue represent both the depth and breadth of the opportunities that exist for psychological assessment in the health setting. While there are countless patient-centered measures currently in use to measure health and health outcomes, the evidence base for their use can be quite variable (Butt, 2016). The hope is that future issues of Psychological Assessment will highlight more work in this area. PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved

Bullying and victimization among African American adolescents: a literature review.

PubMed

Albdour, Maha; Krouse, Helene J

2014-05-01

Bullying among African American adolescents. This article reviews the current literature on bullying and victimization among African American adolescents. It highlights bullying and violence disparity among African American adolescents, associated risk and protective factors, and effects of bullying on adolescent health. Twenty-three English language peer-reviewed articles from CINAHL, Pubmed, and Psyc-INFO databases. African American adolescents have higher rates of bullying and victimization compared to other adolescent populations. This review found strong associations among bullying involvement, substance abuse, and family factors. Bullying also had a significant impact on adolescent health, particularly psychological symptoms and school performance. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Surface chemistry: Key to control and advance myriad technologies

PubMed Central

Yates, John T.; Campbell, Charles T.

2011-01-01

This special issue on surface chemistry is introduced with a brief history of the field, a summary of the importance of surface chemistry in technological applications, a brief overview of some of the most important recent developments in this field, and a look forward to some of its most exciting future directions. This collection of invited articles is intended to provide a snapshot of current developments in the field, exemplify the state of the art in fundamental research in surface chemistry, and highlight some possibilities in the future. Here, we show how those articles fit together in the bigger picture of this field. PMID:21245359

Evidence-based medicine: liposuction.

PubMed

Matarasso, Alan; Levine, Steven M

2013-12-01

After reading this article, the participant should be able to: 1. Perform preoperative assessment and patient selection for liposuction surgeries. 2. Explain the differences among the various types of anesthesia and wetting solutions used in liposuction. 3. Identify the available literature about skin-tightening procedures. 4. Convey to patients the complication profile for various modalities of liposuction. 5. Recall important ASPS consensus guidelines when discussing liposuction. The article was prepared to feature recent evidence-based publications pertaining to liposuction. The authors placed special emphasis on the most clinically relevant data. In addition, they highlighted current data regarding liposuction-related fields, including autologous fat transfer and minimally invasive skin tightening.

What's a Guy To Do?: Contraceptive Responsibility, Confronting Masculinity, and the History of Vasectomy in Canada.

PubMed

Shropshire, Sarah

2014-01-01

Despite the growing popularity of vasectomy in recent years, historians have largely ignored the history of the procedure. The current article provides a preliminary examination of voluntary male sterilization in Canada and, in so doing, challenges the gendered paradigm scholars have often applied to the history of contraception. State-sponsored Medicare and late decriminalization of contraception are discussed as factors that slowed widespread adoption of vasectomy in Canada while evolving surgical techniques are highlighted for their role in increasing acceptability of the procedure. The article explores how evolving definitions of hegemonic masculinity have both hindered and encouraged acceptance of vasectomy over time.

[Health and indigenous peoples in Brazil: the challenge of professional training and continuing education of workers in intercultural contexts].

PubMed

Diehl, Eliana Elisabeth; Pellegrini, Marcos Antonio

2014-04-01

This article discusses training and continuing medical education for indigenous health workers and health professionals in indigenous health under the guidelines of the Brazilian National Healthcare Policy for Indigenous Peoples, which is currently behind schedule and incomplete as part of the official government agenda. Based on inter-sector proposals for health training by the Ministries of Health and Education, the article highlights the case of indigenous healthcare, emphasizing that government initiatives in this area still need to incorporate the concept of continuing education, a powerful tool for fostering intercultural dialogue and orienting health practices.

All Roads Lead to Rome: Update on Rome III Criteria and New Treatment Options

PubMed Central

Shih, David Q.; Kwan, Lola Y.

2010-01-01

The recently published Rome III criteria reflect current understanding of functional gastrointestinal disorders. These criteria include definitions of these conditions and their pathophysiologic subtypes and offer guidelines for their management. At the 2006 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology, a panel of experts discussed these criteria as they pertain to irritable bowel syndrome, functional dyspepsia, and chronic constipation. This article reviews the panel’s findings, highlights the differences between the Rome II and III criteria, and summarizes best treatment options currently available to practitioners and their patients. PMID:21544252

Diagnostic value of plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage samples in acute lung allograft rejection: differential cytology.

PubMed

Speck, Nicole E; Schuurmans, Macé M; Murer, Christian; Benden, Christian; Huber, Lars C

2016-06-21

Diagnosis of acute lung allograft rejection is currently based on transbronchial lung biopsies. Additional methods to detect acute allograft dysfunction derived from plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage samples might facilitate diagnosis and ultimately improve allograft survival. This review article gives an overview of the cell profiles of bronchoalveolar lavage and plasma samples during acute lung allograft rejection. The value of these cells and changes within the pattern of differential cytology to support the diagnosis of acute lung allograft rejection is discussed. Current findings on the topic are highlighted and trends for future research are identified.

Maternal depression and infant development: theory and current evidence.

PubMed

Miklush, Lisa; Connelly, Cynthia D

2013-01-01

Maternal depression (MD) is a condition that has wide-ranging effects on the woman, her family, and the broader global society. It is generally agreed that MD is associated with untoward effects on the developmental trajectory of offspring. The aim of this article is to review the historical and theoretical underpinnings informing current thought linking MD with infant development, and to highlight some of the neuroendocrine and epigenetic processes related to MD and its sequelae. A broad understanding of the association between MD and infant developmental outcomes can inform nursing care of the childbearing family.

Learning to doctor: tinkering with visibility in residency training.

PubMed

Wallenburg, Iris; Bont, Antoinette; Heineman, Maas-Jan; Scheele, Fedde; Meurs, Pauline

2013-05-01

Medical doctors in teaching hospitals aim to serve the two central goals of patient care and medical training. Whereas patient care asks for experience, expertise and close supervision, medical training requires space to practise and the 'invisibility' of medical residents. Yet current reforms in postgraduate medical training point to an increasing emphasis on the measurable visibility of residents. Drawing on an ethnographic study of gynaecology training in The Netherlands, this article demonstrates that in daily clinical routines multiple practices of residents' visibility (visibilities) coexist. The article lists four visibilities: staging residents, negotiating supervision, playing the invisibility game and filming surgical operations. The article shows how attending physicians and medical residents tinker with these visibilities in daily clinical work to provide good care while enacting learning space, highlighting the increasing importance of visualising technologies in clinical work. Moreover, the article contributes to traditional sociological accounts on medical education, shifting the focus from medical education as a social institution to the practices of medical training itself. Such a focus on practice helps to gain an understanding of how the current reform challenges clinicians' educational activities. © 2012 The Authors. Sociology of Health & Illness © 2012 Foundation for the Sociology of Health & Illness/Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Results of nine Connecticut Cancer Partnership implementation projects.

PubMed

Morra, Marion E; Mowad, Linda Z; Hogarty, Lucinda Hill; Kettering, Shiu-Yu

2012-01-01

The Connecticut Cancer Partnership (Partnership), through funds from the Connecticut legislature, the AttorneyGeneral Fund and some limited federal funding, has spearheaded the implementation of a series of projects by Connecticut institutions and State of Connecticut departments. Among them are projects in prevention, detection, treatment, survivorship and end-of-life care, along with programs that target ethnic and uninsured populations. This article highlights funding sources, procedures for choosing projects and summaries for nine completed projects of interest to practicing physicians. It also includes a listing of additional projects currently underway. The use of shared funding among the State's partners highlights the energy of the Partnership in carrying out the common vision embodied in the Connecticut Cancer Plan.

Patients' Priorities and Attitudes Towards Their Temporo-Mandibular Disorders.

PubMed

Kelleher, Martin; Ray-Chaudhuri, Arijit; Khawaja, Noman

2015-08-01

The diagnosis and appropriate management of temporo-mandibular disorders (TMDs) remains controversial. Current scientific evidence highlights the importance of psychosocial factors in sufferers and the reducing emphasis on occlusal or dental/prosthetic factors. This paper describes the findings of a survey of 211 patients reporting pain from their temporo-mandibular joint area and associated structures. This article offers busy primary dental care practitioners a cost effective questionnaire for obtaining relevant information from patients about the history of their condition and highlights what patients hope to achieve through the management of their disorder. It also emphasises the importance of communicating effectively with patients and offers practical tips for the management of TMDs in primary care.

Successful management of Barth syndrome: a systematic review highlighting the importance of a flexible and multidisciplinary approach.

PubMed

Reynolds, Stacey

2015-01-01

This review describes and summarizes the available evidence related to the treatment and management of Barth syndrome. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards were used to identify articles published between December 2004 and January 2015. The Cochrane Population, Intervention, Control, Outcome, Study Design (PICOS) approach was used to guide the article selection and evaluation process. Of the 128 articles screened, 28 articles matched the systematic review inclusion criteria. The results of this review indicate the need for a flexible and multidisciplinary approach to manage the symptoms most commonly associated with Barth syndrome. It is recommended that a comprehensive care team should include individuals with Barth syndrome, their family members and caregivers, as well as medical, rehabilitative, nutritional, psychological, and educational professionals. The evidence for specific treatments, therapies, and techniques for individuals with Barth syndrome is currently lacking in both quality and quantity.

Critical appraisal of emergency medicine education research: the best publications of 2013.

PubMed

Farrell, Susan E; Kuhn, Gloria J; Coates, Wendy C; Shayne, Phillip H; Fisher, Jonathan; Maggio, Lauren A; Lin, Michelle

2014-11-01

The objective was to critically appraise and highlight methodologically superior medical education research articles published in 2013 whose outcomes are pertinent to teaching and education in emergency medicine (EM). A search of the English-language literature in 2013 querying Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), PsychINFO, PubMed, and Scopus identified 251 EM-related studies using hypothesis-testing or observational investigations of educational interventions. Two reviewers independently screened all of the publications and removed articles using established exclusion criteria. Six reviewers then independently scored the remaining 43 publications using either a qualitative a or quantitative scoring system, based on the research methodology of each article. Each scoring system consisted of nine criteria. Selected criteria were based on accepted educational review literature and chosen a priori. Both scoring systems used parallel scoring metrics and have been used previously within this annual review. Forty-three medical education research papers (37 quantitative and six qualitative studies) met the a priori criteria for inclusion and were reviewed. Six quantitative and one qualitative study were scored and ranked most highly by the reviewers as exemplary and are summarized in this article. This annual critical appraisal article aims to promote superior research in EM-related education, by reviewing and highlighting seven of 43 major education research studies, meeting a priori criteria, and published in 2013. Common methodologic pitfalls in the 2013 papers are noted, and current trends in medical education research in EM are discussed. © 2014 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Are South African Speech-Language Therapists adequately equipped to assess English Additional Language (EAL) speakers who are from an indigenous linguistic and cultural background? A profile and exploration of the current situation

PubMed Central

Mdlalo, Thandeka; Flack, Penelope

2016-01-01

This article presents the results of a survey conducted on Speech-Language Therapists (SLTs) regarding current practices in the assessment of English Additional Language (EAL) speakers in South Africa. It forms part of the rationale for a broader (PhD) study that critiques the use of assessment instruments on EAL speakers from an indigenous linguistic and cultural background. This article discusses an aspect of the broader research and presents the background, method, findings, discussion and implications of the survey. The results of this survey highlight the challenges of human and material resources to, and the dominance of English in, the profession in South Africa. The findings contribute to understanding critical factors for acquiring reliable and valid assessment results with diverse populations, particularly the implications from a cultural and linguistic perspective. PMID:27247254

A review of the Australian healthcare system: A policy perspective

PubMed Central

Sambasivan, Murali

2018-01-01

This article seeks to review the Australian healthcare system and compare it to similar systems in other countries to highlight the main issues and problems. A literature search for articles relating to the Australian and other developed countries’ healthcare systems was conducted by using Google and the library of Victoria University, Melbourne. Data from the websites of the Commonwealth of Australia, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the Australian Productivity Commission, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the World Bank have also been used. Although care within the Australian healthcare system is among the best in the world, there is a need to change the paradigm currently being used to measure the outcomes and allocate resources. The Australian healthcare system is potentially dealing with two main problems: (a) resource allocation, and (b) performance and patient outcomes improvements. An interdisciplinary research approach in the areas of performance measurement, quality and patient outcomes improvement could be adopted to discover new insights, by using the policy implementation error/efficiency and bureaucratic capacity. Hospital managers, executives and healthcare management practitioners could use an interdisciplinary approach to design new performance measurement models, in which financial performance, quality, healthcare and patient outcomes are blended in, for resource allocation and performance improvement. This article recommends that public policy implementation error and the bureaucratic capacity models be applied to healthcare to optimise the outcomes for the healthcare system in Australia. In addition, it highlights the need for evaluation of the current reimbursement method, freedom of choice to patients and a regular scrutiny of the appropriateness of care. PMID:29686869

A review of the Australian healthcare system: A policy perspective.

PubMed

Dixit, Sunil K; Sambasivan, Murali

2018-01-01

This article seeks to review the Australian healthcare system and compare it to similar systems in other countries to highlight the main issues and problems. A literature search for articles relating to the Australian and other developed countries' healthcare systems was conducted by using Google and the library of Victoria University, Melbourne. Data from the websites of the Commonwealth of Australia, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the Australian Productivity Commission, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and the World Bank have also been used. Although care within the Australian healthcare system is among the best in the world, there is a need to change the paradigm currently being used to measure the outcomes and allocate resources. The Australian healthcare system is potentially dealing with two main problems: (a) resource allocation, and (b) performance and patient outcomes improvements. An interdisciplinary research approach in the areas of performance measurement, quality and patient outcomes improvement could be adopted to discover new insights, by using the policy implementation error/efficiency and bureaucratic capacity. Hospital managers, executives and healthcare management practitioners could use an interdisciplinary approach to design new performance measurement models, in which financial performance, quality, healthcare and patient outcomes are blended in, for resource allocation and performance improvement. This article recommends that public policy implementation error and the bureaucratic capacity models be applied to healthcare to optimise the outcomes for the healthcare system in Australia. In addition, it highlights the need for evaluation of the current reimbursement method, freedom of choice to patients and a regular scrutiny of the appropriateness of care.

Highlights from High Energy Neutrino Experiments at CERN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schlatter, W.-D.

2015-07-01

Experiments with high energy neutrino beams at CERN provided early quantitative tests of the Standard Model. This article describes results from studies of the nucleon quark structure and of the weak current, together with the precise measurement of the weak mixing angle. These results have established a new quality for tests of the electroweak model. In addition, the measurements of the nucleon structure functions in deep inelastic neutrino scattering allowed first quantitative tests of QCD.

Osteoporotic fractures in older adults

PubMed Central

Colón-Emeric, Cathleen S.; Saag, Kenneth G.

2007-01-01

Osteoporotic fractures are emerging as a major public health problem in the aging population. Fractures result in increased morbidity, mortality and health expenditures. This article reviews current evidence for the management of common issues following osteoporotic fractures in older adults including: (1) thromboembolism prevention; (2) delirium prevention; (3) pain management; (4) rehabilitation; (5) assessing the cause of fracture; and (6) prevention of subsequent fractures. Areas for practice improvement and further research are highlighted. PMID:16979533

The microbial cell factory.

PubMed

Murphy, Cormac D

2012-03-14

Microorganisms have been used for decades as sources of antibiotics, vitamins and enzymes and for the production of fermented foods and chemicals. In the 21st century microorganisms will play a vital role in addressing some of the problems faced by mankind. In this article three of the current applications in which microbes have a significant role to play are highlighted: the discovery of new antibiotics, manufacture of biofuels and bioplastics, and production of fine chemicals via biotransformation.

Economic Evaluation of Pharmaco- and Behavioral Therapies for Smoking Cessation: A Critical and Systematic Review of Empirical Research

PubMed Central

Ruger, Jennifer Prah; Lazar, Christina M.

2014-01-01

Economic evaluations are an important tool to improve our understanding of the costs and effects of health care services and to create sustainable health care systems. This article critically assesses empirical evidence from economic evaluations of pharmaco- and behavioral therapies for smoking cessation. A comprehensive literature review of PubMed and the British National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database was conducted. The search identified 15 articles on nicotine-based pharmacotherapies, 12 articles on nonnicotine based pharmacotherapies, no articles on selegiline, and 10 articles on brief counseling for smoking cessation treatment. Results show that both pharmaco- and behavioral therapies for smoking cessation are cost-effective or even cost-saving. The review highlights several shortcomings in methodology and a lack of standardization of current economic evaluations. Efforts to improve methodology will help make future studies more comparable and increase the evidence base so that such evaluations can be more useful to public health practitioners and policy makers. PMID:22224889

2000 Digital Avionics Highlights

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Polites, Michael E.

2000-01-01

This article summarizes the highlights of recent events and developments in digital avionics in commercial aviation, military systems, and space. This article is about 1,200 words long. Information for the article was collected from other NASA centers, DoD, and industry. All information was previously cleared by the originating organizations. Information for the article was also gathered from Aviation Week and Space Technology and similar sources.

Editorial: The continuing contributions of multimodal treatment of attention over nearly two decades to initial attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder pharmacotherapy and long-term clinical course.

PubMed

Bloch, Michael H

2017-06-01

The initial results of the Multimodal Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (MTA) trial had profound effects on the way that Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is managed clinically. Children from the original MTA cohort as well as a control group have been followed longitudinally for well over a decade and are beginning to provide important data regarding the long-term clinical course, treatment and consequences of ADHD into adulthood. Two articles in this issue of JCPP highlight important contributions from the MTA cohort. Swanson et al. highlights the potential long-term effects of stimulants on height whereas Sibley et al. highlights the importance of using multiple informants in assessing adulthood ADHD symptoms similar to children and suggest that current DSM criteria for ADHD may be overly stringent. © 2017 Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health.

Basic Principles of Health Economics Applied - How to Assess if Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation is Worth the Investment.

PubMed

Brunn, Matthias; Durand-Zaleski, Isabelle

2013-08-01

This article attempts to present some highlights from the rich economic literature pertaining to interventional cardiology and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). There are currently more questions than answers, not surprisingly given the pace of technological change in interventional cardiology. For clinicians who work in a strictly regulated environment and have limited control over their use of medical technologies, this article will hopefully shed some light on the motives for policy decisions. For clinicians who make decisions on the resources used to treat their patients, it aims to provide the means of looking for evidence that will allow for informed decisions from both clinical and economic perspectives.

In situ gelling polymers in ocular drug delivery systems: a review.

PubMed

Mundada, Atish S; Avari, Jasmine G

2009-01-01

The review article aims to highlight the recent developments in various in situ gel-forming polymeric systems that are used to achieve prolonged contact time of drugs with the cornea and increase their ocular bioavailability. These phase-change polymers, which trigger the drug release in response to external stimuli, are the most investigated in controlled drug delivery. The present review summarizes in detail these various polymers, which undergo sol-gel transition due to physical (temperature) or chemical (pH, ions) stimuli when instilled in the eye. As a whole, this article provides valuable insight into current trends in the field of in situ gel-forming ocular drug delivery systems.

Cardio-oncology Related to Heart Failure: Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Target-Based Therapy.

PubMed

Kenigsberg, Benjamin; Jain, Varun; Barac, Ana

2017-04-01

Cancer therapy targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)/erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene B (ErbB)/human EGFR receptor (HER) family of tyrosine kinases has been successfully used in treatment of several malignancies. The ErbB pathways play a role in the maintenance of cardiac homeostasis. This article summarizes current knowledge about EGFR/ErbB/HER receptor-targeted cancer therapeutics focusing on their cardiotoxicity profiles, molecular mechanisms, and implications in clinical cardio-oncology. The article discusses challenges in predicting, monitoring, and treating cardiac dysfunction and heart failure associated with ErbB-targeted cancer therapeutics and highlights opportunities for researchers and clinical investigators. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Focus on Communications: Communicating the Message: Clarifying the Controversies About Caffeine.

PubMed

Hogan, Edith Howard; Hornick, Betsy A.; Bouchoux, Ann

2002-01-01

Today's "coffee culture" and the widespread availability of caffeine-containing foods and beverages fuel the ongoing study of caffeine and its subsequent coverage by the media. Although the media has become influential in communicating health and nutrition information to the public, coverage of emerging science, such as the study of caffeine, does not necessarily bring clarity or improved understanding for consumers. This article highlights the current knowledge of caffeine's effects on health, with emphasis on the most common areas of interest and confusion. To address persistent misperceptions about caffeine, this article also accentuates the need for nutrition professionals to help put the findings of caffeine research into perspective and suggests practical ways to do this.

Recent progress and perspectives in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction of Ti-oxide-based nanomaterials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sohn, Youngku; Huang, Weixin; Taghipour, Fariborz

2017-02-01

The conversion of CO2 with H2O to valuable chemicals and fuels is a new solution to current environmental and energy problems, and the high energy barrier of these reactions can be overcome by the input of solar and electrical energy. However, the reduction efficiencies and selectivities of these reactions are insufficient for practical use, and significant effort and strategy are required to overcome the many obstacles preventing the large-scale application of photocatalytic CO2 reduction. This article reviews recent progress in CO2 reduction using titanium oxide-based materials and various strategic factors for increasing photocatalytic efficiency. This article also highlights non-titanium-oxide catalysts, the photoelectrocatalytic reduction of CO2, and other recent review articles concerning the recycling of CO2 to value-added carbon compounds.

Current misconception 3: that subgroup-specific trial mortality results often provide a good basis for individualising patient care

PubMed Central

Peto, R

2011-01-01

Misconceptions and ill-founded theories can arise in all areas of science. However, the apparent accessibility of many epidemiology findings and popular interest in the subject can lead to additional misunderstandings. The article below is the third in an occasional series of short editorials highlighting some current misinterpretations of epidemiological findings. Invited authors will be given wide scope in judging the prevalence of the misconception under discussion. We hope that this series will prove instructive to cancer researchers in other disciplines as well as to students of epidemiology. Adrian L Harris and Leo Kinlen PMID:21448174

How can the study of physiological reactivity contribute to our understanding of adversity and resilience processes in development?

PubMed

Obradović, Jelena

2012-05-01

The focus of this article is to present current progress in understanding the interplay among adversity, physiological sensitivity to context, and adaptive functioning, with an emphasis on implications and future directions for resilience researchers. It includes a review of current literature that demonstrates (a) links between various levels of adversity exposure and variability in physiological reactivity, (b) how the interplay between children's physiological reactivity and different sources of risk and adversity relates to variability in adaptive functioning, and (c) various approaches for capturing a more dynamic nature of physiological reactivity and related processes. Throughout, important conceptual and empirical issues are highlighted.

Stem Cells in the Face: Tooth Regeneration and Beyond

PubMed Central

Mao, Jeremy J.; Robey, Pamela G.; Prockop, Darwin J.

2014-01-01

Postnatal orofacial tissues contain rare cells that exhibit stem/progenitor cell properties. Despite a tremendous unmet clinical need for regeneration of tissues lost in congenital anomalies, infections, trauma or tumor resection, how orofacial stem/progenitor cells contribute to tissue development, pathogenesis and regeneration is largely a mystery. This perspective article critically analyzes the current status of orofacial stem/progenitor cells, identifies gaps in our understanding and highlights pathways for the development of regenerative therapies. PMID:22958928

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McGettigan, C.K.; Hunt, D.G.

Colombia, where petroleum development began in 1908, is still yielding giant and supergiant discoveries. Recent successes result from improvements in exploration technology, in infrastructure, and in terms of participation offered by the Colombian government. Colombia has 13 sedimentary basins covering an area of 700,000 sq km out of a total country area of 1,350,000 sq km, including the continental shelf. This article highlights four of the seven basins currently productive in Colombia, providing an overview of geology and recent exploration activity.

Neurosurgery in Lebanon: History, Development, and Future Challenges.

PubMed

Fares, Youssef; Fares, Jawad

2017-03-01

Lebanon stands out as the one of the first countries in the Middle East and the Arab world to practice the medical specialty of neurosurgery. In addition, Lebanon has one of the best reputations for neurosurgery in this region. This article documents the history and current status of Lebanese neurosurgery. Residency and fellowship trainings are also highlighted, and political, socioeconomic, and academic challenges for the future of the profession are presented. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Yellow dots in trichoscopy: relevance, clinical significance and peculiarities*

PubMed Central

Lima, Caren dos Santos; Lemes, Luciana Rodino; Melo, Daniel Fernandes

2017-01-01

Yellow dots are follicular ostium filled with keratin and/or sebum. Initially, they were exclusively associated with alopecia areata. Currently they have also been described in androgenetic alopecia, chronic cutaneous (discoid) lupus erythematosus, and dissecting cellulitis. Due to the growing importance of trichoscopy and its findings in the evaluation of the scalp, this article describes the main diseases in which yellow dots are a common trichoscopic finding, highlighting its characteristics in each dermatosis. PMID:29166518

Irish public perceptions and attitudes to modern biotechnology: an overview with a focus on GM foods.

PubMed

Morris, S H; Adley, C C

2001-02-01

This article summarizes the current situation pertaining to modern biotechnology in Ireland, with a particular focus on genetically modified (GM) crops. It briefly examines some important results of the major national surveys carried out in Ireland since 1989, highlights the recent upsurge in media (newspaper) coverage of GM related stories in three Irish opinion leader publications and it allows for an insight into the Irish public's relationship with modern biotechnology.

[Direct genetic manipulation and criminal code in Venezuela: absolute criminal law void?].

PubMed

Cermeño Zambrano, Fernando G De J

2002-01-01

The judicial regulation of genetic biotechnology applied to the human genome is of big relevance currently in Venezuela due to the drafting of an innovative bioethical law in the country's parliament. This article will highlight the constitutional normative of Venezuela's 1999 Constitution regarding this subject, as it establishes the framework from which this matter will be legally regulated. The approach this article makes towards the genetic biotechnology applied to the human genome is made taking into account the Venezuelan penal law and by highlighting the violent genetic manipulations that have criminal relevance. The genetic biotechnology applied to the human genome has another important relevance as a consequence of the reformulation of the Venezuelan Penal Code discussed by the country's National Assembly. Therefore, a concise study of the country's penal code will be made in this article to better understand what judicial-penal properties have been protected by the Venezuelan penal legislation. This last step will enable us to identify the penal tools Venezuela counts on to face direct genetic manipulations. We will equally indicate the existing punitive loophole and that should be covered by the penal legislator. In conclusion, this essay concerns criminal policy, referred to the direct genetic manipulations on the human genome that haven't been typified in Venezuelan law, thus discovering a genetic biotechnology paradise.

Current opinion on auricular reconstruction.

PubMed

Sivayoham, Eason; Woolford, Tim J

2012-08-01

To review the current practice in the field of auricular reconstruction and to highlight the recent advances reported in the medical literature. The majority of surgeons who perform auricular reconstruction continue to employ the well-established techniques developed by Brent and Nagata. Surgery takes between two and four stages, with the initial stage being construction of a framework of autogenous rib cartilage which is implanted into a subcutaneous pocket. Several modifications of these techniques have been reported. More recently, synthetic frameworks have been employed instead of autogenous rib cartilage. For this procedure, the implant is generally covered with a temporoparietal flap and a skin graft at the first stage of surgery. Tissue engineering is a rapidly developing field, and there have been several articles related to the field of auricular reconstruction. These show great potential to offer a solution to the challenge associated with construction of a viable autogenous cartilage framework, whilst avoiding donor-site morbidity. This article gives an overview of the current practice in the field of auricular reconstruction and summarizes the recent surgical developments and relevant tissue engineering research.

Innovative approaches to cervical cancer screening for sex trade workers: an international scoping review.

PubMed

Thulien, Naomi S

2014-03-01

Female sex trade workers are among those at highest risk for developing and dying of cervical cancer, and yet many-particularly the most marginalized-are less likely than other women to be screened. This review summarizes global findings on innovative approaches to cervical cancer screening for female sex trade workers, highlights current gaps in the delivery of cervical cancer screening for female sex trade workers globally, and suggests areas for future research and policy development. A scoping review of peer-reviewed publications and grey literature was conducted. Medline (OVID), PubMed, EMBASE, and SCOPUS were searched for relevant studies written in English. There were no limitations placed on dates. Grey literature was identified by hand searching and through discussion with health care providers and community outreach workers currently working with sex trade workers. Twenty-five articles were deemed suitable for review. Articles detailing innovative ways for female sex trade workers to access cervical cancer screening were included. Articles about screening for sexually transmitted infections were also included if the findings could be generalized to screening for cervical cancer. Articles limited to exploring risk factors, knowledge, awareness, education, prevalence, and incidence of cervical cancer among sex trade workers were excluded from the review. Successful screening initiatives identified in the studies reviewed had unconventional hours of operation, understood the difference between street-based and venue-based sex trade workers, and/or used peers for outreach. Two significant gaps in health care service delivery were highlighted in this review: the limited use of unorthodox hours and the nearly exclusive practice of providing sexually transmitted infection screening for female sex trade workers without cervical cancer screening. In addition, although street-based (as opposed to venue-based) sex trade workers are likely at higher risk for developing cervical cancer, they are much less likely than other eligible women to participate in screening programs, meaning traditional outreach methods are unlikely to be successful.

Gay aging.

PubMed

Haber, David

2009-01-01

The oldest of the baby boomers (boomers) were age 63 in 2009 and on the verge of retirement. This cohort has had a history of making societal changes throughout its life cycle, and it is unlikely that retirement, as we know it, will remain unscathed. This article highlights two events-the Stonewall Inn riots and two prominent professional associations removing homosexuality from their list of personality disorders-and how they occurred early enough in the gay boomers life cycle to change their attitudes, behaviors, and lifestyles. This article introduces the reader to a broad array of facts, research findings, and issues that inform the topic of gay aging. A summary of the discrimination and legal concerns affecting the gay community are also highlighted. Two influential community programs are identified: Services and Advocacy for Gay Elders (SAGE) and the American Society on Aging's LGBT Aging Issues Network (LAIN). Gerontological educators need to be sensitive to the needs, desires, and resources of the coming cohort of gay boomers, who are more likely to advocate for responsive services, organizations, and policies than the current cohort of gay older adults.

Developing the skills required for evidence-based practice.

PubMed

French, B

1998-01-01

The current health care environment requires practitioners with the skills to find and apply the best currently available evidence for effective health care, to contribute to the development of evidence-based practice protocols, and to evaluate the impact of utilizing validated research findings in practice. Current approaches to teaching research are based mainly on gaining skills by participation in the research process. Emphasis on the requirement for rigour in the process of creating new knowledge is assumed to lead to skill in the process of using research information created by others. This article reflects upon the requirements for evidence-based practice, and the degree to which current approaches to teaching research prepare practitioners who are able to find, evaluate and best use currently available research information. The potential for using the principles of systematic review as a teaching and learning strategy for research is explored, and some of the possible strengths and weakness of this approach are highlighted.

Grid Integration Science, NREL Power Systems Engineering Center

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kroposki, Benjamin

This report highlights journal articles published in 2016 by researchers in the Power Systems Engineering Center. NREL's Power Systems Engineering Center published 47 journal and magazine articles in the past year, highlighting recent research in grid modernization.

Exploring the Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006: What is the impact on innovation in the EU food sector?

PubMed

Khedkar, Sukhada; Bröring, Stefanie; Ciliberti, Stefano

2017-02-01

Literature suggests that despite its positive aim of promoting innovation, the Nutrition and Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 (NHCR) may bring along several compliance challenges, which might affect innovation in the EU food sector. This study investigates the challenges faced by companies to comply with the NHCR (specifically Article 13.1) and their impact on innovation. To this end, we conducted an online survey with 105 companies involved in the EU food sector. Results indicate that companies perceive wording of claims, missing transparency and limited financial resources as major challenges to comply with the NHCR (Article 13.1). Companies reported not to have increased their R&D expenditure or innovation activities after the NHCR (Article 13.1) was implemented. Thus, this study highlights specific compliance challenges related to the NHCR (Article 13.1) and indicates that currently, the regulation does not seem to have fostered innovation in the EU food sector.

Cone beam CT in orthodontics: the current picture.

PubMed

Makdissi, Jimmy

2013-03-01

The introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology to dentistry and orthodontics revolutionized the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of orthodontic patients. This review article discusses the use of CBCT in diagnosis and treatment planning in orthodontics. The steps required to install and operate a CBCT facility within the orthodontic practice as well as the challenges are highlighted. The available guidelines in relation to the clinical applications of CBCT in orthodontics are explored. Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

Space flight nutrition research: platforms and analogs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Scott M.; Uchakin, Peter N.; Tobin, Brian W.

2002-01-01

Conducting research during actual or simulated weightlessness is a challenging endeavor, where even the simplest activities may present significant challenges. This article reviews some of the potential obstacles associated with performing research during space flight and offers brief descriptions of current and previous space research platforms and ground-based analogs, including those for human, animal, and cell-based research. This review is intended to highlight the main issues of space flight research analogs and leave the specifics for each physiologic system for the other papers in this section.

Intelligent biology and medicine in 2015: advancing interdisciplinary education, collaboration, and data science.

PubMed

Huang, Kun; Liu, Yunlong; Huang, Yufei; Li, Lang; Cooper, Lee; Ruan, Jianhua; Zhao, Zhongming

2016-08-22

We summarize the 2015 International Conference on Intelligent Biology and Medicine (ICIBM 2015) and the editorial report of the supplement to BMC Genomics. The supplement includes 20 research articles selected from the manuscripts submitted to ICIBM 2015. The conference was held on November 13-15, 2015 at Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. It included eight scientific sessions, three tutorials, four keynote presentations, three highlight talks, and a poster session that covered current research in bioinformatics, systems biology, computational biology, biotechnologies, and computational medicine.

Neuroblastoma and MYCN

PubMed Central

Huang, Miller; Weiss, William A.

2013-01-01

Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood, is thought to originate from undifferentiated neural crest cells. Amplification of the MYC family member, MYCN, is found in ∼25% of cases and correlates with high-risk disease and poor prognosis. Currently, amplification of MYCN remains the best-characterized genetic marker of risk in neuroblastoma. This article reviews roles for MYCN in neuroblastoma and highlights recent identification of other driver mutations. Strategies to target MYCN at the level of protein stability and transcription are also reviewed. PMID:24086065

Medical education: Changes and perspectives

PubMed Central

Zhang, Qin; Lee, Liming; Gruppen, Larry D.; Ba, Denian

2013-01-01

As medical education undergoes significant internationalization, it is important for the medical education community to understand how different countries structure and provide medical education. This article highlights the current landscape of medical education in China, particularly the changes that have taken place in recent years. It also examines policies and offers suggestions about future strategies for medical education in China. Although many of these changes reflect international trends, Chinese medical education has seen unique transformations that reflect its particular culture and history. PMID:23631405

Computational Astrophysics Towards Exascale Computing and Big Data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Astsatryan, H. V.; Knyazyan, A. V.; Mickaelian, A. M.

2016-06-01

Traditionally, Armenia has a leading position both within the computer science and Information Technology and Astronomy and Astrophysics sectors in the South Caucasus region and beyond. For instance recent years Information Technology (IT) became one of the fastest growing industries of the Armenian economy (EIF 2013). The main objective of this article is to highlight the key activities that will spur Armenia to strengthen its computational astrophysics capacity thanks to the analysis made of the current trends of e-Infrastructures worldwide.

Military genomics: a perspective on the successes and challenges of genomic medicine in the Armed Services.

PubMed

De Castro, Mauricio J; Turner, Clesson E

2017-11-01

We describe the impact genomics has on the health and readiness of the military service member, highlight several examples of the current and future plans for genomic medicine within the military, discuss challenges to implementation and provide recommendations to address some of those challenges. Published 2017. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Molecular Genetics & Genomic Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Specialization in psychology and health care reform.

PubMed

Kaslow, Nadine J; Graves, Chanda C; Smith, Chaundrissa Oyeshiku

2012-03-01

This article begins by contextualizing specialization and board certification of psychologists, with attention paid to relevant definitions and expectations of other health care professionals. A brief history of specialization and board certification in professional psychology is offered. The benefits of board certification through the American Board of Professional Psychology are highlighted. Consideration is then given to the primary reasons for psychologists working in academic health sciences centers to specialize in the current health care climate and to obtain board certification as a mark of such specialization.

Diet and Obesity Issues in the Underserved.

PubMed

Mejia de Grubb, Maria C; Levine, Robert S; Zoorob, Roger J

2017-03-01

The goal of this article is to inform new directions for addressing inequalities associated with obesity by reviewing current issues about diet and obesity among socioeconomically vulnerable and underserved populations. It highlights recent interventions in selected high-risk populations, as well as gaps in the knowledge base. It identifies future directions in policy and programmatic interventions to expand the role of primary care providers, with an emphasis on those aimed at preventing obesity and promoting healthy weight. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

iPhone and iPad Use in Orthopedic Surgery.

PubMed

Duncan, Scott F M; Hendawi, Tariq K; Sperling, John; Kakinoki, Ryosuke; Hartsock, Landon

2015-01-01

Thousands of healthcare mobile applications (apps) are available, and physicians are increasingly recognizing that mobile technology can improve their workflow and allow them to practice medicine in a better and/or more efficient manner. This article highlights apps compatible with the iPhone and iPad and their utility to the busy orthopedic surgeon. Currently available apps address every aspect of healthcare: patient management, reference, education, and research. Key aspects of helpful apps include low cost (preferably free), a user-friendly interface, and simplicity.

Variability of blood glucose meters for patient self-testing: analysis of the article by Brazg and coauthors.

PubMed

Pfützner, Andreas

2013-01-01

The article by Brzag and coauthors in this issue of Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology reports a competitive accuracy performance study for a branded meter in comparison with six low-cost meters currently available in the United States. It highlights several important topics: (1) the need for more stringent post-marketing requirements for blood glucose meters after launch and (2) low-cost meters use older technologies and their manufacturers do not usually seriously invest in new technology or constant quality assurance efforts. This may explain the study results, which show superior performance of the branded meter. Finally, the article pinpoints to the "quality versus price" dilemma faced by the prescribing physician and their patients in daily routine, which may be additionally aggravated by budget constraints and prescription rules in reimbursed markets. © 2013 Diabetes Technology Society.

Ocean in peril: reforming the management of global ocean living resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

PubMed

Gjerde, Kristina M; Currie, Duncan; Wowk, Kateryna; Sack, Karen

2013-09-30

This article presents the outcome of research aimed at assisting governments in meeting their commitments and legal obligations for sustainable fisheries, based on increasing evidence that global fisheries are in crisis. The article assesses the effectiveness of the existing legal and institutional framework for high seas living resources. It focuses on: (1) the role of regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs); (2) tools for compliance and enforcement to stem illegal fishing; and (3) mechanisms for habitat protection. The article further highlights a variety of options for addressing key weaknesses and gaps in current ocean governance, including United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolutions, reforms at the regional level, as well as a possible new legal instrument, with a view to informing international discussions on ways to ensure the sustainable use of high seas resources without compromising the health of the marine environment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Aligning Research and Policy on Social-Emotional and Academic Competence for Young Children

PubMed Central

Nadeem, Erum; Maslak, Kristi; Chacko, Anil; Hoagwood, Kimberly Eaton

2014-01-01

Research Findings The purpose of this article is to describe current education policies as they relate to the promotion of social, emotional, and academic (SEA) development and competence for young children. Academic and social–emotional competencies are described and conceptualized as developmentally linked, reciprocal processes that should be supported by education in an integrated, holistic manner. Practice or Policy The article reviews major public policies and national initiatives that have implications for the education of young children (e.g., Head Start, No Child Left Behind, IDEA) and highlights opportunities within these policies to promote programs that can support SEA competencies, as well as the limitations of these policies. The article also includes a review of the limitations of existing resources available to educators to identify evidence-based programs that support SEA competencies and concludes with recommendations for better alignment between research and policy to support SEA competencies. PMID:25632216

Association football and the representation of homosexuality by the print media: a case study of Anton Hysén.

PubMed

Cleland, Jamie

2014-01-01

In March 2011, Anton Hysén (a semiprofessional footballer currently playing in the Swedish fourth division) became only the second association football (soccer) player of any professional disposition to publicly declare his homosexuality while still playing the game. This article provides a textual analysis of the print media's reaction to Hysén coming out and examines whether, in 2011, they portray more inclusive notions toward homosexuality than they did in 1990 when British footballer Justin Fashanu came out. The results advance inclusive masculinity theory as a number of print media sources (mostly British) interview Hysén in the weeks immediately after he came out and publish articles that challenge homophobia. Highlighting a change since 1990, a significant number of articles stress the need for the key stakeholders in football (players, fans, clubs, agents, the authorities, and the media) to accept gay players.

Food taxation and pricing strategies to "thin out" the obesity epidemic.

PubMed

Kim, Daniel; Kawachi, Ichiro

2006-05-01

This article highlights characteristics of two related yet distinct economic approaches to addressing the current obesity epidemic in the United States: the general taxation of soft drinks, snack foods, and/or fast foods, and the application of pricing incentives/disincentives on foods sold in schools and worksites. The article specifically focuses on the: (1) rationale for, (2) potential barriers and limitations to, and (3) possible unintended consequences of implementing these policy interventions at the state level. Novel empirical evidence showing strong positive associations between the presence of state-level taxation on soft drinks or snack foods between 1991 and 1998 and relative changes in obesity prevalence over the same time period is further presented. The article concludes by summarizing the similarities and dissimilarities of the two approaches, and by emphasizing some of the gaps and priorities regarding these strategies that should be addressed in future research and policies to best effect obesity prevention.

Welfare reform, family support, and child development: perspectives from policy analysis and developmental psychopathology.

PubMed

Knitzer, J; Yoshikawa, H; Cauthen, N K; Aber, J L

2000-01-01

This article explores the implications of recent welfare-related policy change for the well-being of children in low-income families, and for research investigating child development processes and outcomes. It provides an overview of current welfare-related policies and explores the implications for developmental researchers. The article also synthesizes early findings from research, highlighting both overall impacts and the more nuanced evidence that while families are transitioning off welfare, only a small number are transitioning out of poverty, and a subgroup of families at risk are not faring well. It then examines, from a theoretical and methodological framework, what developmental psychopathology might bring to the study of welfare-related impacts on children in the context of this complex and changing policy landscape, and what welfare researchers might bring to the field of developmental psychopathology. The article concludes with broad recommendations for both research and policy.

MORE THAN MONEY: THE EXPONENTIAL IMPACT OF ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER.

PubMed

McDevitt, Valerie Landrio; Mendez-Hinds, Joelle; Winwood, David; Nijhawan, Vinit; Sherer, Todd; Ritter, John F; Sanberg, Paul R

2014-11-01

Academic technology transfer in its current form began with the passage of the Bayh-Dole Act in 1980, which allowed universities to retain ownership of federally funded intellectual property. Since that time, a profession has evolved that has transformed how inventions arising in universities are treated, resulting in significant impact to US society. While there have been a number of articles highlighting benefits of technology transfer, now, more than at any other time since the Bayh-Dole Act was passed, the profession and the impacts of this groundbreaking legislation have come under intense scrutiny. This article serves as an examination of the many positive benefits and evolution, both financial and intrinsic, provided by academic invention and technology transfer, summarized in Table 1.

The Canadian Medical Association Code of Ethics 1868 to 1996: a primer for medical educators.

PubMed

Brownell, A Keith W; Brownell, Elizabeth

2002-06-01

The Canadian Medical Association's (CMA) Code of Ethics applies to all physicians, residents, and medical students in Canada. Learning about the code must be a part of every physician's education, and keeping current with it must be a part of every physician's continuing medical education. This article, based on a review of the 19 CMA codes of ethics issued from 1868 to 1996, shows how deeply the Code of Ethics is tied to the past, highlights those topics that have been part of every version, and demonstrates how the code changed over time. This article should assist medical educators as they develop teaching material on codes of medical ethics, and would be of interest to practising physicians.

MORE THAN MONEY: THE EXPONENTIAL IMPACT OF ACADEMIC TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

PubMed Central

McDevitt, Valerie Landrio; Mendez-Hinds, Joelle; Winwood, David; Nijhawan, Vinit; Sherer, Todd; Ritter, John F.; Sanberg, Paul R.

2014-01-01

Academic technology transfer in its current form began with the passage of the Bayh–Dole Act in 1980, which allowed universities to retain ownership of federally funded intellectual property. Since that time, a profession has evolved that has transformed how inventions arising in universities are treated, resulting in significant impact to US society. While there have been a number of articles highlighting benefits of technology transfer, now, more than at any other time since the Bayh–Dole Act was passed, the profession and the impacts of this groundbreaking legislation have come under intense scrutiny. This article serves as an examination of the many positive benefits and evolution, both financial and intrinsic, provided by academic invention and technology transfer, summarized in Table 1. PMID:25061505

[The Brazilian National Health Conference: challenges for the country].

PubMed

Gadelha, Paulo

2015-10-01

This article was published in the context of the upcoming 15th Brazilian National Health Conference and addresses the country's health challenges based on the history of previous conferences. The authors analyze the evolution of health as a public policy agenda, highlighting the role of such institutions as the Brazilian Center for Health Studies (CEBES), the Brazilian Association of Collective Health (Abrasco), and the National Health Council in advocating and establishing the Brazilian Unified National Health System (SUS). The article also focuses on expectations concerning the 15th National Health Conference within a political and economic scenario that raises questions and challenges both for the future of health policy, exemplified by SUS, and the current capacity to mobilize stakeholders.

[A health system's neoliberal reform: evidence from the Mexican case].

PubMed

López-Arellano, Oliva; Jarillo-Soto, Edgar C

2017-07-27

This study addressed the shaping of Mexico's health system in recent years, with an analysis of the social determination conditioning the system's current formulation, the consequences for the population's living and working conditions, and the technical and legal reform measures that shaped the system's transformation. The article then analyzes the survival of social security institutions and the introduction of an individual insurance model and its current implications and consequences. From the perspective of the right to health, the article compares the measures, resources, and interventions in both health care models and highlights the relevance of the social security system for Popular Insurance. The article concludes that the measures implemented to reform the Mexican health system have failed to achieve the intended results; on the contrary, they have led to a reduction in interventions, rising costs, and a decrease in the installed capacity and professional personnel for the system's operation, thus falling far short of solving the problem, rather aggravating the inequities without solving the system's structural contradictions. Health systems face new challenges, inevitably requiring that the analyses be situated in a broader framework rather than merely focusing on the functional, administrative, and financial operation of the systems in the respective countries.

[Theoretical and methodological uses of research in Social and Human Sciences in Health].

PubMed

Deslandes, Suely Ferreira; Iriart, Jorge Alberto Bernstein

2012-12-01

The current article aims to map and critically reflect on the current theoretical and methodological uses of research in the subfield of social and human sciences in health. A convenience sample was used to select three Brazilian public health journals. Based on a reading of 1,128 abstracts published from 2009 to 2010, 266 articles were selected that presented the empirical base of research stemming from social and human sciences in health. The sample was classified thematically as "theoretical/ methodological reference", "study type/ methodological design", "analytical categories", "data production techniques", and "analytical procedures". We analyze the sample's emic categories, drawing on the authors' literal statements. All the classifications and respective variables were tabulated in Excel. Most of the articles were self-described as qualitative and used more than one data production technique. There was a wide variety of theoretical references, in contrast with the almost total predominance of a single type of data analysis (content analysis). In several cases, important gaps were identified in expounding the study methodology and instrumental use of the qualitative research techniques and methods. However, the review did highlight some new objects of study and innovations in theoretical and methodological approaches.

Objectives and Design of the Russian Acute Coronary Syndrome Registry (RusACSR).

PubMed

Gridnev, Vladimir I; Kiselev, Anton R; Posnenkova, Olga M; Popova, Yulia V; Dmitriev, Viktor A; Prokhorov, Mikhail D; Dovgalevsky, Pavel Ya; Oschepkova, Elena V

2016-01-01

The Russian Acute Coronary Syndrome Registry (RusACSR) is a retrospective, continuous, nationwide, Web-based registry of patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The RusACSR is a database that uses a secure Web-based interface for data entry by individual users. Participation in the RusACSR is voluntary. Any clinical center that provides health care to ACS patients can take part in the RusACSR. The RusACSR enrolls ACS patients who have undergone care in Russian hospitals from February 2008 to the present. Key data elements and methods of data analysis in the RusACSR are presented in this article. Up to 2015, 213 clinical centers from 36 regions of Russia had participated in the RusACSR. Currently, the database contains data on more than 250 000 ACS patients who underwent care from 2008 to 2015. Some current problems are highlighted in this article. The RusACSR is a perspective project for different epidemiologic studies in Russian ACS patients. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

2010 NASA Range Safety Annual Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dumont, Alan G.

2010-01-01

this report provides a NASA Range Safety overview for current and potential range users. This report contains articles which cover a variety of subject areas, summaries of various NASA Range Safety Program activities conducted during the past year, links to past reports, and information on several projects that may have a profound impact on the way business will be done in the future. Specific topics discussed in the 2010 NASA Range Safety Annual Report include a program overview and 2010 highlights; Range Safety Training; Range Safety Policy revision; Independent Assessments; Support to Program Operations at all ranges conducting NASA launch/flight operations; a continuing overview of emerging range safety-related technologies; and status reports from all of the NASA Centers that have Range Safety responsibilities. Every effort has been made to include the most current information available. We recommend this report be used only for guidance and that the validity and accuracy of all articles be verified for updates. Once again, the web-based format was used to present the annual report.

Genetic Vulnerability as a Distal Risk Factor for Suicidal Behaviour: Historical Perspective and Current Knowledge

PubMed Central

ANDRIESSEN, Karl; VIDETIC-PASKA, Alja

2015-01-01

Introduction Suicide is a multidimensional problem. Observations of family history of suicide suggest the existence of a genetic vulnerability to suicidal behaviour. Aim Starting with a historical perspective, the article reviews current knowledge of a genetic vulnerability to suicidal behaviour, distinct from the genetic vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, focused on clinical and population-based studies, and findings from recent molecular genetics association studies. Method The review includes peer-reviewed research articles and review papers from the professional literature in English language, retrieved from PubMed/Medline and PsycINFO. Results The research literature confirms a existence of a genetic vulnerability to suicidal behaviour. Even though the results of individual studies are difficult to compare, genetic influences could explain up to half of the variance of the occurrence of suicide. Conclusion Genetic vulnerability could be a distal risk factor for suicide, which helps us to understand the occurrence of suicide among vulnerable people. Ethical implications of such vulnerability are highlighted. PMID:27646732

Health Literacy and Older Adults

PubMed Central

Chesser, Amy K.; Keene Woods, Nikki; Smothers, Kyle; Rogers, Nicole

2016-01-01

Objective: The objective of this review was to assess published literature relating to health literacy and older adults. Method: The current review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses. Results: Eight articles met inclusion criteria. All studies were conducted in urban settings in the United States. Study sample size ranged from 33 to 3,000 participants. Two studies evaluated health-related outcomes and reported significant associations between low health literacy and poorer health outcomes. Two other studies investigated the impact of health literacy on medication management, reporting mixed findings. Discussion: The findings of this review highlight the importance of working to improve health care strategies for older adults with low health literacy and highlight the need for a standardized and validated clinical health literacy screening tool for older adults. PMID:28138488

Ethical, legal, and social implications of incorporating genomic information into electronic health records.

PubMed

Hazin, Ribhi; Brothers, Kyle B; Malin, Bradley A; Koenig, Barbara A; Sanderson, Saskia C; Rothstein, Mark A; Williams, Marc S; Clayton, Ellen W; Kullo, Iftikhar J

2013-10-01

The inclusion of genomic data in the electronic health record raises important ethical, legal, and social issues. In this article, we highlight these challenges and discuss potential solutions. We provide a brief background on the current state of electronic health records in the context of genomic medicine, discuss the importance of equitable access to genome-enabled electronic health records, and consider the potential use of electronic health records for improving genomic literacy in patients and providers. We highlight the importance of privacy, access, and security, and of determining which genomic information is included in the electronic health record. Finally, we discuss the challenges of reporting incidental findings, storing and reinterpreting genomic data, and nondocumentation and duty to warn family members at potential genetic risk.

The U.S. Presidential Election and Health Care Workforce Policy

PubMed Central

McHugh, Matthew D.; Aiken, Linda H.; Cooper, Richard A.; Miller, Phillip

2009-01-01

The candidates for the 2008 presidential election have offered a range of proposals that could bring significant changes in health care. Although few are aimed directly at the nurse and physician workforce, nearly all of the proposals have the potential to affect the health care workforce. Furthermore, the success of the proposed initiatives is dependent on a robust nurse and physician workforce. The purpose of this article is to outline the current needs and challenges for the nurse and physician workforce and highlight how candidates’ proposals intersect with the adequacy of the health care workforce. Three general themes are highlighted for their implications on the physician and nurse workforce supply, including (a) expansion of health care coverage, (b) workforce investment, and (c) cost control and quality improvement. PMID:18436702

Protective Effects of Indian Spice Curcumin Against Amyloid-β in Alzheimer's Disease.

PubMed

Reddy, P Hemachandra; Manczak, Maria; Yin, Xiangling; Grady, Mary Catherine; Mitchell, Andrew; Tonk, Sahil; Kuruva, Chandra Sekhar; Bhatti, Jasvinder Singh; Kandimalla, Ramesh; Vijayan, Murali; Kumar, Subodh; Wang, Rui; Pradeepkiran, Jangampalli Adi; Ogunmokun, Gilbert; Thamarai, Kavya; Quesada, Kandi; Boles, Annette; Reddy, Arubala P

2018-01-01

The purpose of our article is to assess the current understanding of Indian spice, curcumin, against amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced toxicity in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Natural products, such as ginger, curcumin, and gingko biloba have been used as diets and dietary supplements to treat human diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular, respiratory, infectious, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndromes, and neurological disorders. Products derived from plants are known to have protective effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-arthritis, pro-healing, and boosting memory cognitive functions. In the last decade, several groups have designed and synthesized curcumin and its derivatives and extensively tested using cell and mouse models of AD. Recent research on Aβ and curcumin has revealed that curcumin prevents Aβ aggregation and crosses the blood-brain barrier, reach brain cells, and protect neurons from various toxic insults of aging and Aβ in humans. Recent research has also reported that curcumin ameliorates cognitive decline and improves synaptic functions in mouse models of AD. Further, recent groups have initiated studies on elderly individuals and patients with AD and the outcome of these studies is currently being assessed. This article highlights the beneficial effects of curcumin on AD. This article also critically assesses the current limitations of curcumin's bioavailability and urgent need for new formulations to increase its brain levels to treat patients with AD.

Protective Effects of Indian Spice Curcumin Against Amyloid Beta in Alzheimer’s Disease

PubMed Central

Reddy, P. Hemachandra; Manczak, Maria; Yin, Xiangling; Grady, Mary Catherine; Mitchell, Andrew; Tonk, Sahil; Kuruva, Chandra Sekhar; Bhatti, Jasvinder Singh; Kandimalla, Ramesh; Vijayan, Murali; Kumar, Subodh; Wang, Rui; Adi Pradeepkiran, Jangampalli; Ogunmokun, Gilbert; Thamarai, Kavya; Quesada, Kandi; Boles, Annette; Reddy, Arubala P

2018-01-01

The purpose of our article is to assess the current understanding of Indian spice ‘Curcumin’ against amyloid-β (Aβ)-induced toxicity in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. Natural products, such as ginger, curcumin and gingko biloba have been used as diets and dietary supplements to treat human diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular, respiratory, infectious, diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndromes and neurological disorders. Products derived from plants are known to have protective effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-arthritis, pro-healing and boosting memory cognitive functions. In the last decade, several groups have designed and synthesized curcumin and its derivatives and extensively tested using cell and mouse models of AD. Recent research on amyloid-β and curcumin has revealed that curcumin prevents amyloid-β aggregation and crosses the blood brain barrier (BBB), reach brain cells and protect neurons from various toxic insults of aging and amyloid-β in humans. Recent research has also reported that curcumin ameliorates cognitive decline and improves synaptic functions in mouse models of AD. Further, recent groups have initiated studies on elderly individuals and patients with AD and the outcome of these studies is currently being assessed. This article highlights the beneficial effects of curcumin on AD. This article also critically assesses the current limitations of curcumin’s bioavailability and urgent need for new formulation to increase its brain levels to treat patients with AD. PMID:29332042

Current Best Practices for Sexual and Gender Minorities in Hospice and Palliative Care Settings.

PubMed

Maingi, Shail; Bagabag, Arthur E; O'Mahony, Sean

2018-05-01

Although several publications document the health care disparities experienced by sexual and gender minorities (SGMs), including lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals,1e4 less is known about the experiences and outcomes for SGM families and individuals in hospice and palliative care (HPC) settings. This article provides a brief overview of issues pertaining to SGMs in HPC settings, highlighting gaps in knowledge and research. Current and best practices for SGM individuals and their families in HPC settings are described, as are recommendations for improving the quality of such care. Copyright © 2018 American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Understanding immigrants, schooling, and school psychology: Contemporary science and practice.

PubMed

Frisby, Craig L; Jimerson, Shane R

2016-06-01

Immigration into the United States is a particularly salient topic of current contemporary educational, social, and political discussions. The school-related needs of immigrant children and youth can be well served by rigorous research and effective school psychology preservice training and preparation. This overview highlights key definitions, demographic statistics, and current resources related to immigration in U.S. society. This special topic section on understanding immigrants, schooling, and school psychology features articles relevant to this important topic. We conclude with a call for this effort to serve as a springboard for future discussions, scholarship, and school psychology training in preparing practitioners for serving children who are immigrants. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Production of bioproducts by endophytic fungi: chemical ecology, biotechnological applications, bottlenecks, and solutions.

PubMed

Yan, Lu; Zhao, Haobin; Zhao, Xixi; Xu, Xiaoguang; Di, Yichao; Jiang, Chunmei; Shi, Junling; Shao, Dongyan; Huang, Qingsheng; Yang, Hui; Jin, Mingliang

2018-05-29

Endophytes are microorganisms that colonize the interior of host plants without causing apparent disease. They have been widely studied for their ability to modulate relationships between plants and biotic/abiotic stresses, often producing valuable secondary metabolites that can affect host physiology. Owing to the advantages of microbial fermentation over plant/cell cultivation and chemical synthesis, endophytic fungi have received significant attention as a mean for secondary metabolite production. This article summarizes currently reported results on plant-endophyte interaction hypotheses and highlights the biotechnological applications of endophytic fungi and their metabolites in agriculture, environment, biomedicine, energy, and biocatalysts. Current bottlenecks in industrial development and commercial applications as well as possible solutions are also discussed.

Recent advances in transfusions in neonates/infants

PubMed Central

Goel, Ruchika; Josephson, Cassandra D.

2018-01-01

Transfusions of red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, and plasma are critical therapies for infants and neonates (particularly preterm neonates) in the neonatal intensive care unit, who are the most frequently transfused subpopulation across all ages. Although traditionally a significant gap has existed between the blood utilization and the evidence base essential to adequately guide transfusion practices in infants and neonates, pediatric transfusion medicine is evolving from infancy and gradually coming of age. It is entering an exciting era with recognition as an independent discipline, a new and evolving high-quality evidence base for transfusion practices, novel technologies and therapeutics, and national/international collaborative research, educational, and clinical efforts. Triggers and thresholds for red cell transfusion are accumulating evidence with current phase III clinical trials. Ongoing trials and studies of platelet and plasma transfusions in neonates are anticipated to provide high-quality evidence in years to come. This article aims to summarize the most current evidence-based practices regarding blood component therapy in neonates. Data on the use of specific components (RBCs, plasma, and platelets) are provided. We attempt to define thresholds for anemia, thrombocytopenia, and abnormal coagulation profile in neonates to highlight the difficulties in having a specific cutoff value in neonates and preterm infants. Indications for transfusion of specific products, transfusion thresholds, and current practices and guidelines are provided, and possible adverse outcomes and complications are discussed. Finally, the critical research knowledge gaps in these practices as well as ongoing and future research areas are discussed. In an era of personalized medicine, neonatal transfusion decisions guided by a strong evidence base must be the overarching goal, and this underlies all of the strategic initiatives in pediatric and neonatal transfusion research highlighted in this article. PMID:29904575

Knowledge representation and management: towards an integration of a semantic web in daily health practice.

PubMed

Griffon, N; Charlet, J; Darmoni, Sj

2013-01-01

To summarize the best papers in the field of Knowledge Representation and Management (KRM). A synopsis of the four selected articles for the IMIA Yearbook 2013 KRM section is provided, as well as highlights of current KRM trends, in particular, of the semantic web in daily health practice. The manual selection was performed in three stages: first a set of 3,106 articles, then a second set of 86 articles followed by a third set of 15 articles, and finally the last set of four chosen articles. Among the four selected articles (see Table 1), one focuses on knowledge engineering to prevent adverse drug events; the objective of the second is to propose mappings between clinical archetypes and SNOMED CT in the context of clinical practice; the third presents an ontology to create a question-answering system; the fourth describes a biomonitoring network based on semantic web technologies. These four articles clearly indicate that the health semantic web has become a part of daily practice of health professionals since 2012. In the review of the second set of 86 articles, the same topics included in the previous IMIA yearbook remain active research fields: Knowledge extraction, automatic indexing, information retrieval, natural language processing, management of health terminologies and ontologies.

Concept mapping methodology and community-engaged research: A perfect pairing.

PubMed

Vaughn, Lisa M; Jones, Jennifer R; Booth, Emily; Burke, Jessica G

2017-02-01

Concept mapping methodology as refined by Trochim et al. is uniquely suited to engage communities in all aspects of research from project set-up to data collection to interpreting results to dissemination of results, and an increasing number of research studies have utilized the methodology for exploring complex health issues in communities. In the current manuscript, we present the results of a literature search of peer-reviewed articles in health-related research where concept mapping was used in collaboration with the community. A total of 103 articles met the inclusion criteria. We first address how community engagement was defined in the articles and then focus on the articles describing high community engagement and the associated community outcomes/benefits and methodological challenges. A majority (61%; n=63) of the articles were classified as low to moderate community engagement and participation while 38% (n=39) of the articles were classified as high community engagement and participation. The results of this literature review enhance our understanding of how concept mapping can be used in direct collaboration with communities and highlights the many potential benefits for both researchers and communities. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Additive Manufacturing Techniques in Prosthodontics: Where Do We Currently Stand? A Critical Review.

PubMed

Alharbi, Nawal; Wismeijer, Daniel; Osman, Reham B

The aim of this article was to critically review the current application of additive manufacturing (AM)/3D-printing techniques in prosthodontics and to highlight the influence of various technical factors involved in different AM technologies. A standard approach of searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases was followed. The following search terms were used: (Prosth* OR Restoration) AND (Prototype OR Additive Manufacture* OR Compute* OR 3D-print* OR CAD/CAM) AND (Dentistry OR Dental). Hand searching the reference lists of the included articles and personal connections revealed additional relevant articles. Selection criteria were any article written in English and reporting on the application of AM in prosthodontics from 1990 to February 2016. From a total of 4,290 articles identified, 33 were seen as relevant. Of these, 3 were narrative reviews, 18 were in vitro studies, and 12 were clinical in vivo studies. Different AM technologies are applied in prosthodontics, directly and indirectly for the fabrication of fixed metal copings, metal frameworks for removable partial dentures, and plastic mock-ups and resin patterns for further conventional metal castings. Technical factors involved in different AM techniques influence the overall quality, the mechanical properties of the printed parts, and the total cost and manufacturing time. AM is promising and offers new possibilities in the field of prosthodontics, though its application is still limited. An understanding of these limitations and of developments in material science is crucial prior to considering AM as an acceptable method for the fabrication of dental prostheses.

Determination of Death and the Dead Donor Rule: A Survey of the Current Law on Brain Death

PubMed Central

Nikas, Nikolas T.; Bordlee, Dorinda C.; Moreira, Madeline

2016-01-01

Despite seeming uniformity in the law, end-of-life controversies have highlighted variations among state brain death laws and their interpretation by courts. This article provides a survey of the current legal landscape regarding brain death in the United States, for the purpose of assisting professionals who seek to formulate or assess proposals for changes in current law and hospital policy. As we note, the public is increasingly wary of the role of organ transplantation in determinations of death, and of the variability of brain death diagnosing criteria. We urge that any attempt to alter current state statutes or to adopt a national standard must balance the need for medical accuracy with sound ethical principles which reject the utilitarian use of human beings and are consistent with the dignity of the human person. Only in this way can public trust be rebuilt. PMID:27097648

Critical Appraisal of Emergency Medicine Education Research: The Best Publications of 2014.

PubMed

Yarris, Lalena M; Juve, Amy Miller; Coates, Wendy C; Fisher, Jonathan; Heitz, Corey; Shayne, Philip; Farrell, Susan E

2015-11-01

The objective was to critically appraise and highlight rigorous education research study articles published in 2014 whose outcomes advance the science of emergency medicine (EM) education. A search of the English language literature in 2014 querying Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), PsychINFO, PubMed, and Scopus identified 243 EM-related articles using either quantitative (hypothesis-testing or observational investigations of educational interventions) or qualitative (exploring important phenomena in EM education) methods. Two reviewers independently screened all of the publications using previously established exclusion criteria. Six reviewers then independently scored the 25 selected publications using either a qualitative or a quantitative scoring system. Each scoring system consisted of nine criteria. Selected criteria were based on accepted educational review literature and chosen a priori. Both scoring systems use parallel scoring metrics and have been used previously within this annual review. Twenty-five medical education research papers (22 quantitative, three qualitative) met the criteria for inclusion and were reviewed. Five quantitative and two qualitative studies were ranked most highly by the reviewers as exemplary and are summarized in this article. This annual critical appraisal series highlights seven excellent EM education research studies, meeting a priori criteria and published in 2014. Methodologic strengths in the 2014 papers are noted, and current trends in medical education research in EM are discussed. © 2015 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine.

Schools, Families, and the Prevention of Child Maltreatment: Lessons That Can Be Learned From a Literature Review.

PubMed

Admon Livny, Karen; Katz, Carmit

2018-04-01

Child maltreatment is a worldwide social problem that receives considerable attention. However, prevention efforts remain rare, allowing the phenomenon to continue and spread. The aim of the current article is to systematically review evidence-based prevention efforts that address schools and families as key stakeholders for preventing child maltreatment. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a thorough literature review revealed that only five programs matched the inclusion criteria for the current article. These programs were analyzed for several domains, including level of prevention, target population, participants, and the programs' outcomes. The current review highlights the urgent needs to develop, modify, and further evaluate prevention programs for child maltreatment in the context of the ecological model. More specifically, it illuminates the need to create and champion programs that enhance the collaboration between families and schools, both of which are key stakeholders within the phenomenon of child maltreatment. Collaboration between policymakers, researchers, and practitioners should guide future efforts by promoting cultural adaptation to such programs and by integrating children's perceptions to improve these efforts and to benefit everyone involved.

Beyond insects: current status, achievements and future perspectives of RNAi in mite pests.

PubMed

Niu, Jinzhi; Shen, Guangmao; Christiaens, Olivier; Smagghe, Guy; He, Lin; Wang, Jinjun

2018-05-11

Mites comprise a group of key agricultural pests on a wide range of crops. They cause harm through feeding on the plant and transferring dangerous pathogens, and the rapid evolution of pesticide resistance in mites highlights the need for novel control methods. Currently, RNA interference (RNAi) shows a great potential for insect pest control. Here, we review the literature associated with RNAi in mite pests. We discuss different target genes and RNAi efficiency in various mite species, a promising Varroa control program through RNAi, the synergy of RNAi with plant defense mechanisms and microorganisms, and the current understandings of systemic movement of dsRNA. Based on this, we can conclude that there is a clear potential for an RNAi-based mite control application but further research on several aspects is needed, including: (i) the factors influencing the RNAi efficiency, (ii) the mechanism of environmental RNAi and cross-kingdom dsRNA trafficking, (iii) the mechanism of possible systemic and parental RNAi, and (iv) non-target effects, specifically in predatory mites, should be considered during the RNAi target selection. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

The stigma of childhood mental disorders: a conceptual framework.

PubMed

Mukolo, Abraham; Heflinger, Craig Anne; Wallston, Kenneth A

2010-02-01

To describe the state of the literature on stigma associated with children's mental disorders and highlight gaps in empirical work. We reviewed child mental illness stigma articles in (English only) peer-reviewed journals available through Medline and PsychInfo. We augmented these with adult-oriented stigma articles that focus on theory and measurement. A total of 145 articles in PsychInfo and 77 articles in MEDLINE met search criteria. The review process involved identifying and appraising literature convergence on the definition of critical dimensions of stigma, antecedents, and outcomes reported in empirical studies. We found concurrence on three dimensions of stigma (negative stereotypes, devaluation, and discrimination), two contexts of stigma (self, general public), and two targets of stigma (self/individual, family). Theory and empirics on institutional and self-stigma in child populations were sparse. Literature reports few theoretic frameworks and conceptualizations of child mental illness stigma. One model of help seeking (the FINIS) explicitly acknowledges the role of stigma in children's access and use of mental health services. Compared with adults, children are subject to unique stigmatizing contexts that have not been adequately studied. The field needs conceptual frameworks that get closer to stigma experiences that are causally linked to how parents/caregivers cope with children's emotional and behavioral problems, such as seeking professional help. To further research in child mental illness, we suggest an approach to adapting current theoretical frameworks and operationalizing stigma, highlighting three dimensions of stigma, three contexts of stigma (including institutions), and three targets of stigma (self/child, family, and services).

Efficient Results in Semantic Interoperability for Health Care. Findings from the Section on Knowledge Representation and Management.

PubMed

Soualmia, L F; Charlet, J

2016-11-10

To summarize excellent current research in the field of Knowledge Representation and Management (KRM) within the health and medical care domain. We provide a synopsis of the 2016 IMIA selected articles as well as a related synthetic overview of the current and future field activities. A first step of the selection was performed through MEDLINE querying with a list of MeSH descriptors completed by a list of terms adapted to the KRM section. The second step of the selection was completed by the two section editors who separately evaluated the set of 1,432 articles. The third step of the selection consisted of a collective work that merged the evaluation results to retain 15 articles for peer-review. The selection and evaluation process of this Yearbook's section on Knowledge Representation and Management has yielded four excellent and interesting articles regarding semantic interoperability for health care by gathering heterogeneous sources (knowledge and data) and auditing ontologies. In the first article, the authors present a solution based on standards and Semantic Web technologies to access distributed and heterogeneous datasets in the domain of breast cancer clinical trials. The second article describes a knowledge-based recommendation system that relies on ontologies and Semantic Web rules in the context of chronic diseases dietary. The third article is related to concept-recognition and text-mining to derive common human diseases model and a phenotypic network of common diseases. In the fourth article, the authors highlight the need for auditing the SNOMED CT. They propose to use a crowdbased method for ontology engineering. The current research activities further illustrate the continuous convergence of Knowledge Representation and Medical Informatics, with a focus this year on dedicated tools and methods to advance clinical care by proposing solutions to cope with the problem of semantic interoperability. Indeed, there is a need for powerful tools able to manage and interpret complex, large-scale and distributed datasets and knowledge bases, but also a need for user-friendly tools developed for the clinicians in their daily practice.

The Construction of Biliterate Narratives and Identities between Parents and Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kabuto, Bobbie

2015-01-01

This article highlights two bilingual families who participated in a larger study titled "Revaluing Readers and Families." Drawing on multiple theoretical perspectives to highlight the experiences of a Greek and English speaking family and a Spanish and English speaking family, this article explores how these two bilingual families…

Strategies for Disseminating Information on Biomedical Research on Autism to Hispanic Parents

PubMed Central

Lajonchere, Clara M.; Wheeler, Barbara Y.; Valente, Thomas W.; Kreutzer, Cary; Munson, Aron; Narayanan, Shrikanth; Kazemzadeh, Abe; Cruz, Roxana; Martinez, Irene; Schrager, Sheree M.; Schweitzer, Lisa; Chklovski, Tara; Hwang, Darryl

2015-01-01

Low income Hispanic families experience multiple barriers to accessing evidence-based information on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). This study utilized a mixed-strategy intervention to create access to information in published bio-medical research articles on ASD by distilling the content into parent-friendly English- and Spanish-language ASD Science Briefs and presenting them to participants using two socially-oriented dissemination methods. There was a main effect for short-term knowledge gains associated with the Science Briefs but no effect for the dissemination method. After 5 months, participants reported utilizing the information learned and 90% wanted to read more Science Briefs. These preliminary findings highlight the potential benefits of distilling biomedical research articles on ASD into parent-friendly educational products for currently underserved Hispanic parents. PMID:26563948

Effects of ionizing radiation on wildlife: what knowledge have we gained between the Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents?

PubMed

Beresford, Nicholas A; Copplestone, David

2011-07-01

The recent events at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan have raised questions over the effects of radiation in the environment. This article considers what we have learned about the radiological consequences for the environment from the Chernobyl accident, Ukraine, in April 1986. The literature offers mixed opinions of the long-term impacts on wildlife close to the Chernobyl plant, with some articles reporting significant effects at very low dose rates (below natural background dose rate levels in, for example, the United Kingdom). The lack of agreement highlights the need for further research to establish whether current radiological protection criteria for wildlife are adequate (and to determine if there are any implications for human radiological protection). Copyright © 2011 SETAC.

Selective small-molecule inhibitors as chemical tools to define the roles of matrix metalloproteinases in disease.

PubMed

Meisel, Jayda E; Chang, Mayland

2017-11-01

The focus of this article is to highlight novel inhibitors and current examples where the use of selective small-molecule inhibitors has been critical in defining the roles of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in disease. Selective small-molecule inhibitors are surgical chemical tools that can inhibit the targeted enzyme; they are the method of choice to ascertain the roles of MMPs and complement studies with knockout animals. This strategy can identify targets for therapeutic development as exemplified by the use of selective small-molecule MMP inhibitors in diabetic wound healing, spinal cord injury, stroke, traumatic brain injury, cancer metastasis, and viral infection. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Matrix Metalloproteinases edited by Rafael Fridman. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Colorectal surgeons teaching general surgery residents: current challenges and opportunities.

PubMed

Schmitz, Connie C; Chow, Christopher J; Rothenberger, David A

2012-09-01

Effective teaching for general surgery residents requires that faculty members with colorectal expertise actively engage in the education process and fully understand the current context for residency training. In this article, we review important national developments with respect to graduate medical education that impact resident supervision, curriculum implementation, resident assessment, and program evaluation. We argue that establishing a culture of respect and professionalism in today's teaching environment is one of the most important legacies that surgical educators can leave for the coming generation. Faculty role modeling and the process of socializing residents is highlighted. We review the American College of Surgeons' Code of Professional Conduct, summarize some of the current strategies for teaching and assessing professionalism, and reflect on principles of motivation that apply to resident training both for the trainee and the trainer.

Colorectal Surgeons Teaching General Surgery Residents: Current Challenges and Opportunities

PubMed Central

Schmitz, Connie C.; Chow, Christopher J.; Rothenberger, David A.

2012-01-01

Effective teaching for general surgery residents requires that faculty members with colorectal expertise actively engage in the education process and fully understand the current context for residency training. In this article, we review important national developments with respect to graduate medical education that impact resident supervision, curriculum implementation, resident assessment, and program evaluation. We argue that establishing a culture of respect and professionalism in today's teaching environment is one of the most important legacies that surgical educators can leave for the coming generation. Faculty role modeling and the process of socializing residents is highlighted. We review the American College of Surgeons' Code of Professional Conduct, summarize some of the current strategies for teaching and assessing professionalism, and reflect on principles of motivation that apply to resident training both for the trainee and the trainer. PMID:23997668

Outcomes and disparities in liver transplantation will be improved by redistricting-cons.

PubMed

Goldberg, David Seth; Karp, Seth

2017-04-01

Over the last 2 years, the liver transplant community has been debating a proposal to redraw the maps of organ distribution. The basis for these proposed changes is reported disparities in severity of illness at transplantation across the USA - however, this is based on the allocation model for end-stage liver disease score. In this review, we provide a critical overview of the redistribution proposal, its flaws and how it may worsen outcomes and exacerbate disparities in liver transplantation. The main findings we highlight are data questioning the disparity metric used to justify the redistribution. We also review data published in recent articles and presented at public forums questioning whether there truly are disparities in access to transplant care among the broader population with liver disease, and whether disparities even getting to the waitlist are important and not to be ignored. This review article highlights major methodological and policy flaws with the current redistribution proposal. We demonstrate how the waitlist disparities that the proposal is intended to fix are not as they seem. Furthermore, if this proposal is passed, outcomes of liver transplantation nationally may worsen, and disparities for those with limited access to healthcare will worsen.

Digital Suicide Prevention: Can Technology Become a Game-changer?

PubMed

Vahabzadeh, Arshya; Sahin, Ned; Kalali, Amir

2016-01-01

Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death and has been recognized as a significant public health issue. Rapid advances in data science can provide us with useful tools for suicide prevention, and help to dynamically assess suicide risk in quantitative data-driven ways. In this article, the authors highlight the most current international research in digital suicide prevention, including the use of machine learning, smartphone applications, and wearable sensor driven systems. The authors also discuss future opportunities for digital suicide prevention, and propose a novel Sensor-driven Mental State Assessment System.

Changes in nursing ethics education in Lithuania.

PubMed

Toliusiene, Jolanta; Peicius, Eimantas

2007-11-01

The post-Soviet scene in Lithuania is one of rapid change in medical and nursing ethics. A short introduction to the current background sets the scene for a wider discussion of ethics in health care professionals' education. Lithuania had to adapt rapidly from a politicized nursing and ethics curriculum to European regulations, and from a paternalistic style of care to one of engagement with choices and dilemmas. The relationships between professionals, and between professionals and patients, are affected by this in particular. This short article highlights these issues and how they impact on all involved.

Is the relationship between your hospital and your medical staff sustainable?

PubMed

Carlson, Greg; Greeley, Hugh

2010-01-01

Issues in the macro-environment are affecting the historic relationships that have existed between hospitals and their medical staffs over the last half century. Rising healthcare costs, deteriorating relationships, unexplained variations in clinical outcomes, transparency in healthcare outcomes, medical tourism, competition between hospitals and physicians, and reluctance by hospitals and physicians to change are among the issues challenging the sustainability of the current business model. This article highlights barriers to maintaining traditional relationships and concludes with strategies to preserve and strengthen relationships between physicians and hospitals.

FDG-PET Assessment of Other Gynecologic Cancers.

PubMed

Faria, Silvana; Devine, Catherine; Viswanathan, Chitra; Javadi, Sanaz; Korivi, Brinda Rao; Bhosale, Priya R

2018-04-01

PET and PET/computed tomography play a role in the staging, monitoring of response to therapy, and surveillance for cervical and ovarian cancers. Currently, it is also an integral part of the assessment of patients with endometrial cancer and other gynecologic malignancies, such as vaginal and vulvar cancers and uterine sarcomas. In this article, we discuss in detail and highlight the potential role of PET and PET/computed tomography in evaluating these gynecologic malignancies using illustrative cases with relevant imaging findings. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Can the cannabis-prohibition be supported by medical evidence ?

PubMed

Zullino, Daniele; Thorens, Gabriel; Ferreira, Pedro; Rudolf, Aron; Wiesbeck, Gerhard; Cattacin, Sandro

2018-06-06

Currently, important issues around laws on regulation of cannabis use lead to reflect on the prohibition, which is still in force in most countries. The present article attempts to demonstrate by explaining the concepts of the principle of harm, legal paternalism and the precautionary principle that prohibition of cannabis cannot be justified medically. One of the main elements highlighted is that the prohibition does not allow to avoid the consumption and the damages due to cannabis use and that these principles (people should restrain from using cannabis) cannot be applied.

Advances in the history of composite resins.

PubMed

Minguez, Nieves; Ellacuria, Joseba; Soler, José Ignacio; Triana, Rodrigo; Ibaseta, Guillermo

2003-11-01

The use of composite resins as direct restoration material in posterior teeth has demonstrated a great increase, due to esthetic requirements and the controversy regarding the mercury content in silver amalgams. In this article, we have reviewed the composition modifications which have occurred in materials based on resins since their introduction over a half a century ago which have enabled great improvements in their physical and mechanical properties. Likewise, we have highlighted current lines of research, centered on finding the ideal material for replacing silver amalgam as a direct filling material.

Special Considerations in Neonatal Mechanical Ventilation.

PubMed

Dalgleish, Stacey; Kostecky, Linda; Charania, Irina

2016-12-01

Care of infants supported with mechanical ventilation is complex, time intensive, and requires constant vigilance by an expertly prepared health care team. Current evidence must guide nursing practice regarding ventilated neonates. This article highlights the importance of common language to establish a shared mental model and enhance clear communication among the interprofessional team. Knowledge regarding the underpinnings of an open lung strategy and the interplay between the pathophysiology and individual infant's response to a specific ventilator strategy is most likely to result in a positive clinical outcome. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Use and misuse of pharmacoeconomic terms: a definitions primer.

PubMed

Sanchez, L A; Lee, J

1994-01-01

Given the current cost-conscious health care environment, pharmacists must now be able to assess the effects of an agent from safety, efficacy, and value considerations. This article describes the various methodologies that may be used in performing pharmacoeconomic analyses and highlights the use and misuse of pharmacoeconomic terminology. Case studies relating the use of these methods to the pharmacy practice setting are presented. The technical nuances of the various methods are explained to promote a better understanding of the appropriate use of these techniques and the terminology used to describe them.

Boron Nitride Nanotubes: Recent Advances in Their Synthesis, Functionalization, and Applications.

PubMed

Lee, Chee Huei; Bhandari, Shiva; Tiwari, Bishnu; Yapici, Nazmiye; Zhang, Dongyan; Yap, Yoke Khin

2016-07-15

A comprehensive overview of current research progress on boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) is presented in this article. Particularly, recent advancements in controlled synthesis and large-scale production of BNNTs will first be summarized. While recent success in mass production of BNNTs has opened up new opportunities to implement the appealing properties in various applications, concerns about product purity and quality still remain. Secondly, we will summarize the progress in functionalization of BNNTs, which is the necessary step for their applications. Additionally, selected potential applications in structural composites and biomedicine will be highlighted.

Ethical issues in neonatal and pediatric clinical trials.

PubMed

Laventhal, Naomi; Tarini, Beth A; Lantos, John

2012-10-01

Children have been identified as uniquely vulnerable clinical research subjects since the early 1970s. This article reviews the historical underpinnings of this designation, the current regulatory framework for pediatric and neonatal research, and common problems in pediatric research oversight. It also presents 3 areas of pediatric and neonatal research (genomic screening, healthy children donating stem cells, and therapeutic hypothermia for neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy) that highlight contemporary challenges in pediatric research ethics, including balancing risk and benefit, informed consent and assent, and clinical equipoise. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[Ebola virus disease].

PubMed

Nazimek, Katarzyna; Bociaga-Jasik, Monika; Bryniarski, Krzysztof; Gałas, Aleksander; Garlicki, Aleksander; Gawda, Anna; Gawlik, Grzegorz; Gil, Krzysztof; Kosz-Vnenchak, Magdalena; Mrozek-Budzyn, Dorota; Olszanecki, Rafał; Piatek, Anna; Zawilińska, Barbara; Marcinkiewicz, Janusz

2014-01-01

Ebola is one of the most virulent zoonotic RNA viruses causing in humans haemorrhagic fever with fatality ratio reaching 90%. During the outbreak of 2014 the number of deaths exceeded 8.000. The "imported" cases reported in Western Europe and USA highlighted the extreme risk of Ebola virus spreading outside the African countries. Thus, haemorrhagic fever outbreak is an international epidemiological problem, also due to the lack of approved prevention and therapeutic strategies. The editorial review article briefly summarizes current knowledge on Ebola virus disease epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis as well as possible prevention and treatment.

Science education and literacy: imperatives for the developed and developing world.

PubMed

Webb, Paul

2010-04-23

This article explores current language-based research aimed at promoting scientific literacy and examines issues of language use in schools, particularly where science teaching and learning take place in teachers' and learners' second language. Literature supporting the premise that promoting reading, writing, and talking while "doing science" plays a vital role in effective teaching and learning of the subject is highlighted. A wide range of studies suggest that, whether in homogenous or language-diverse settings, science educators can make a significant contribution to both understanding science and promoting literacy.

Neuroepigenomics: Resources, Obstacles, and Opportunities

PubMed Central

Satterlee, John S.; Beckel-Mitchener, Andrea; Little, Roger; Procaccini, Dena; Rutter, Joni L.; Lossie, Amy C.

2014-01-01

Long-lived post-mitotic cells, such as the majority of human neurons, must respond effectively to ongoing changes in neuronal stimulation or microenvironmental cues through transcriptional and epigenomic regulation of gene expression. The role of epigenomic regulation in neuronal function is of fundamental interest to the neuroscience community, as these types of studies have transformed our understanding of gene regulation in post-mitotic cells. This perspective article highlights many of the resources available to researchers interested in neuroepigenomic investigations and discusses some of the current obstacles and opportunities in neuroepigenomics. PMID:25722961

An organizing model for recent cognitive science work on the self.

PubMed

Pageler, Ben

2016-10-01

An organizing model of 'the self' emerges from applying various kinds of brain injury to recent cognitive science and philosophical work on 'the self'. This model unifies various contents and mechanisms central to current notions of the self. The article then highlights several criteria and aspects of this notion of self. Qualities of the right type and level of psychological significance delineate 'the self' as an organizing concept useful for recent philosophical work and cognitive science research. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

iPhone and iPad Use in Orthopedic Surgery

PubMed Central

Duncan, Scott F. M.; Hendawi, Tariq K.; Sperling, John; Kakinoki, Ryosuke; Hartsock, Landon

2015-01-01

Background Thousands of healthcare mobile applications (apps) are available, and physicians are increasingly recognizing that mobile technology can improve their workflow and allow them to practice medicine in a better and/or more efficient manner. Methods This article highlights apps compatible with the iPhone and iPad and their utility to the busy orthopedic surgeon. Results Currently available apps address every aspect of healthcare: patient management, reference, education, and research. Conclusion Key aspects of helpful apps include low cost (preferably free), a user-friendly interface, and simplicity. PMID:25829881

XDR-TB: an outcome of programmatic management of TB in India.

PubMed

Mishra, Gyanshankar; Ghorpade, S V; Mulani, Jasmin

2014-01-01

A significantly strengthened Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) is currently operational in India. In this case-based commentary, we describe the plight of a patient who developed extensive drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) despite having received treatment under the RNTCP for a long period. Our aim is to analyse the programmatic management of tuberculosis in India by highlighting and discussing various issues related to the treatment received by the patient. Further, the article explores whether there is a need to incorporate an ethical element into the RNTCP as it stands today.

Microfluidics and photonics for Bio-System-on-a-Chip: a review of advancements in technology towards a microfluidic flow cytometry chip.

PubMed

Godin, Jessica; Chen, Chun-Hao; Cho, Sung Hwan; Qiao, Wen; Tsai, Frank; Lo, Yu-Hwa

2008-10-01

Microfluidics and photonics come together to form a field commonly referred to as 'optofluidics'. Flow cytometry provides the field with a technology base from which both microfluidic and photonic components be developed and integrated into a useful device. This article reviews some of the more recent developments to familiarize a reader with the current state of the technologies and also highlights the requirements of the device and how researchers are working to meet these needs.

Chemically modified graphene based supercapacitors for flexible and miniature devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghosh, Debasis; Kim, Sang Ouk

2015-09-01

Rapid progress in the portable and flexible electronic devises has stimulated supercapacitor research towards the design and fabrication of high performance flexible devices. Recent research efforts for flexible supercapacitor electrode materials are highly focusing on graphene and chemically modified graphene owing to the unique properties, including large surface area, high electrical and thermal conductivity, excellent mechanical flexibility, and outstanding chemical stability. This invited review article highlights current status of the flexible electrode material research based on chemically modified graphene for supercapacitor application. A variety of electrode architectures prepared from chemically modified graphene are summarized in terms of their structural dimensions. Novel prototypes for the supercapacitor aiming at flexible miniature devices, i.e. microsupercapacitor with high energy and power density are highlighted. Future challenges relevant to graphene-based flexible supercapacitors are also suggested. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

The doctor of nursing practice and nursing education: highlights, potential, and promise.

PubMed

Danzey, Ida Maria; Ea, Emerson; Fitzpatrick, Joyce J; Garbutt, Susan J; Rafferty, Margaret; Zychowicz, Michael E

2011-01-01

The success of the doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs have exceeded everyone's expectations and resulted in increased interest in doctoral education in nursing. A shortage of doctorally prepared nurse educators continues to plague the profession and has a severe impact on the ability of schools of nursing to educate future generations of nurses. As a terminal degree in nursing practice, there is little focus on DNP graduates who are prepared as educators. To remedy this deficit, this article will therefore discuss and highlight (a) the significant potential of the DNP to mitigate the current nursing faculty shortage and to close the practice-education gap, (b) the specialized role of DNP graduates as educators and leaders in nursing education, and (c) the implications of the DNP for nursing scholarship. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Understanding the Mechanism of Bacterial Biofilms Resistance to Antimicrobial Agents

PubMed Central

Singh, Shriti; Singh, Santosh Kumar; Chowdhury, Indrajit; Singh, Rajesh

2017-01-01

A biofilm is a group of microorganisms, that causes health problems for the patients with indwelling medical devices via attachment of cells to the surface matrix. It increases the resistance of a microorganism for antimicrobial agents and developed the human infection. Current strategies are removed or prevent the microbial colonies from the medical devices, which are attached to the surfaces. This will improve the clinical outcomes in favor of the patients suffering from serious infectious diseases. Moreover, the identification and inhibition of genes, which have the major role in biofilm formation, could be the effective approach for health care systems. In a current review article, we are highlighting the biofilm matrix and molecular mechanism of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial biofilms. PMID:28553416

Assessing pain objectively: the use of physiological markers.

PubMed

Cowen, R; Stasiowska, M K; Laycock, H; Bantel, C

2015-07-01

Pain diagnosis and management would benefit from the development of objective markers of nociception and pain. Current research addressing this issue has focused on five main strategies, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. These encompass: (i) monitoring changes in the autonomic nervous system; (ii) biopotentials; (iii) neuroimaging; (iv) biological (bio-) markers; and (v) composite algorithms. Although each strategy has shown areas of promise, there are currently no validated objective markers of nociception or pain that can be recommended for clinical use. This article introduces the most important developments in the field and highlights shortcomings, with the aim of allowing the reader to make informed decisions about what trends to watch in the future. © 2015 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

Transformational leadership in sport: current status and future directions.

PubMed

Arthur, Calum A; Bastardoz, Nicolas; Eklund, Robert

2017-08-01

Borrowed from organizational psychology, the concept of transformational leadership has now been applied to a sport context for a decade. Our review covers and critically discusses empirical articles published on this growing topic. However, because the majority of studies used cross-sectional designs and single-source questionnaires to tap what has been a fuzzy construct, current theoretical and methodological issues impede understanding of whether transformational leadership matters for sport outcomes. To make a difference to applied practice and policy, the transformational leadership construct requires a refined definition and stronger empirical tests allowing for robust causal inference. We highlight avenues for advancing research on transformational leadership in the sport context. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A perspective on microarrays: current applications, pitfalls, and potential uses

PubMed Central

Jaluria, Pratik; Konstantopoulos, Konstantinos; Betenbaugh, Michael; Shiloach, Joseph

2007-01-01

With advances in robotics, computational capabilities, and the fabrication of high quality glass slides coinciding with increased genomic information being available on public databases, microarray technology is increasingly being used in laboratories around the world. In fact, fields as varied as: toxicology, evolutionary biology, drug development and production, disease characterization, diagnostics development, cellular physiology and stress responses, and forensics have benefiting from its use. However, for many researchers not familiar with microarrays, current articles and reviews often address neither the fundamental principles behind the technology nor the proper designing of experiments. Although, microarray technology is relatively simple, conceptually, its practice does require careful planning and detailed understanding of the limitations inherently present. Without these considerations, it can be exceedingly difficult to ascertain valuable information from microarray data. Therefore, this text aims to outline key features in microarray technology, paying particular attention to current applications as outlined in recent publications, experimental design, statistical methods, and potential uses. Furthermore, this review is not meant to be comprehensive, but rather substantive; highlighting important concepts and detailing steps necessary to conduct and interpret microarray experiments. Collectively, the information included in this text will highlight the versatility of microarray technology and provide a glimpse of what the future may hold. PMID:17254338

Genetic toxicology in the 21st century: Reflections and future ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

A symposium at the 40th anniversary of the Environmental Mutagen Society, held from October 24–28, 2009 in St. Louis, MO, surveyed the current status and future directions of genetic toxicology. This article summarizes the presentations and provides a perspective on the future. An abbreviated history is presented, highlighting the current standard battery of genotoxicity assays and persistent challenges. Application of computational toxicology to safety testing within a regulatory setting is discussed as a means for reducing the need for animal testing and human clinical trials, and current approaches and applications of in silico genotoxicity screening approaches across the pharmaceutical industry were surveyed and are reported here. The expanded use of toxicogenomics to illuminate mechanisms and bridge genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, and new public efforts to use high-throughput screening technologies to address lack of toxicity evaluation for the backlog of thousands of industrial chemicals in the environment are detailed. The Tox21 project involves coordinated efforts of four U.S. Government regulatory/research entities to use new and innovative assays to characterize key steps in toxicity pathways, including genotoxic and nongenotoxic mechanisms for carcinogenesis. Progress to date, highlighting preliminary test results from the National Toxicology Program is summarized. Finally, an overview is presented of ToxCast™, a related research program of the

Towards public health decision support: a systematic review of bidirectional communication approaches.

PubMed

Dixon, Brian E; Gamache, Roland E; Grannis, Shaun J

2013-05-01

To summarize the literature describing computer-based interventions aimed at improving bidirectional communication between clinical and public health. A systematic review of English articles using MEDLINE and Google Scholar. Search terms included public health, epidemiology, electronic health records, decision support, expert systems, and decision-making. Only articles that described the communication of information regarding emerging health threats from public health agencies to clinicians or provider organizations were included. Each article was independently reviewed by two authors. Ten peer-reviewed articles highlight a nascent but promising area of research and practice related to alerting clinicians about emerging threats. Current literature suggests that additional research and development in bidirectional communication infrastructure should focus on defining a coherent architecture, improving interoperability, establishing clear governance, and creating usable systems that will effectively deliver targeted, specific information to clinicians in support of patient and population decision-making. Increasingly available clinical information systems make it possible to deliver timely, relevant knowledge to frontline clinicians in support of population health. Future work should focus on developing a flexible, interoperable infrastructure for bidirectional communications capable of integrating public health knowledge into clinical systems and workflows.

Teaching the March on Washington

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, William P.; Euchner, Charles; Hill, Norman; Hill, Velma Murphy

2013-01-01

One of the most historical events in American history, the non-violent protest "March on Washington," August 28, 1963, is detailed in an article of remembrance by William P. Jones. His article is crowned by highlights from the "I Have a Dream" speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but also highlights the lessor known role…

A Framework to Implement IoT Network Performance Modelling Techniques for Network Solution Selection †

PubMed Central

Delaney, Declan T.; O’Hare, Gregory M. P.

2016-01-01

No single network solution for Internet of Things (IoT) networks can provide the required level of Quality of Service (QoS) for all applications in all environments. This leads to an increasing number of solutions created to fit particular scenarios. Given the increasing number and complexity of solutions available, it becomes difficult for an application developer to choose the solution which is best suited for an application. This article introduces a framework which autonomously chooses the best solution for the application given the current deployed environment. The framework utilises a performance model to predict the expected performance of a particular solution in a given environment. The framework can then choose an apt solution for the application from a set of available solutions. This article presents the framework with a set of models built using data collected from simulation. The modelling technique can determine with up to 85% accuracy the solution which performs the best for a particular performance metric given a set of solutions. The article highlights the fractured and disjointed practice currently in place for examining and comparing communication solutions and aims to open a discussion on harmonising testing procedures so that different solutions can be directly compared and offers a framework to achieve this within IoT networks. PMID:27916929

A Framework to Implement IoT Network Performance Modelling Techniques for Network Solution Selection.

PubMed

Delaney, Declan T; O'Hare, Gregory M P

2016-12-01

No single network solution for Internet of Things (IoT) networks can provide the required level of Quality of Service (QoS) for all applications in all environments. This leads to an increasing number of solutions created to fit particular scenarios. Given the increasing number and complexity of solutions available, it becomes difficult for an application developer to choose the solution which is best suited for an application. This article introduces a framework which autonomously chooses the best solution for the application given the current deployed environment. The framework utilises a performance model to predict the expected performance of a particular solution in a given environment. The framework can then choose an apt solution for the application from a set of available solutions. This article presents the framework with a set of models built using data collected from simulation. The modelling technique can determine with up to 85% accuracy the solution which performs the best for a particular performance metric given a set of solutions. The article highlights the fractured and disjointed practice currently in place for examining and comparing communication solutions and aims to open a discussion on harmonising testing procedures so that different solutions can be directly compared and offers a framework to achieve this within IoT networks.

Pharmacotherapy of Systemic Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Postlethwaite, Arnold E.; Harris, L. Jeff; Raza, Syed H.; Kodura, Swapna; Akhigbe, Titilola

2010-01-01

Importance of the field Systemic-sclerosis (SSc) is an uncommon autoimmune disease with variable degrees of fibroproliferation in blood vessels and certain organs of the body. Presently, there is no cure for SSc. The purpose of this article is to review the current literature regarding pathogenesis and treatment of complications of SSc. Areas covered in this review All available articles regarding research related to SSc pathogenesis and treatment listed in the PubMed.gov database were searched, relevant articles were then reviewed and used as sources of information for this review. What the reader will gain This review attempts for the reader to highlight some current thought regarding mechanisms of SSc pathogenesis and how autoimmunity relates to vascular changes and fibrogenesis of the disease plus provide a review of results of completed clinical trials and current on-going clinical trials that address organ specific or global therapies for this disease which can aid physicians who provide medical care for patients with SSc. Take home message SSc is a complex autoimmune disease, the pathogenesis of which although not completely understood is under active study, and new insights into pathogenesis are continuously being discovered. Although there is no effective disease modifying treatment for patients with SSc, quality of life, morbidity and mortality can be improved by using targeted therapy directed at affecting the consequences of damage to lungs, blood vessels, kidneys and the gastrointestinal tract. Innovative approaches to treating SSc are under intense investigation. PMID:20210685

Mathematical difficulties as decoupling of expectation and developmental trajectories

PubMed Central

McLean, Janet F.; Rusconi, Elena

2014-01-01

Recent years have seen an increase in research articles and reviews exploring mathematical difficulties (MD). Many of these articles have set out to explain the etiology of the problems, the possibility of different subtypes, and potential brain regions that underlie many of the observable behaviors. These articles are very valuable in a research field, which many have noted, falls behind that of reading and language disabilities. Here will provide a perspective on the current understanding of MD from a different angle, by outlining the school curriculum of England and the US and connecting these to the skills needed at different stages of mathematical understanding. We will extend this to explore the cognitive skills which most likely underpin these different stages and whose impairment may thus lead to mathematics difficulties at all stages of mathematics development. To conclude we will briefly explore interventions that are currently available, indicating whether these can be used to aid the different children at different stages of their mathematical development and what their current limitations may be. The principal aim of this review is to establish an explicit connection between the academic discourse, with its research base and concepts, and the developmental trajectory of abstract mathematical skills that is expected (and somewhat dictated) in formal education. This will possibly help to highlight and make sense of the gap between the complexity of the MD range in real life and the state of its academic science. PMID:24567712

Bisphosphonates and atypical subtrochanteric fractures of the femur

PubMed Central

Kharwadkar, N.; Mayne, B.; Lawrence, J. E.

2017-01-01

Objectives Bisphosphonates are widely used as first-line treatment for primary and secondary prevention of fragility fractures. Whilst they have proved effective in this role, there is growing concern over their long-term use, with much evidence linking bisphosphonate-related suppression of bone remodelling to an increased risk of atypical subtrochanteric fractures of the femur (AFFs). The objective of this article is to review this evidence, while presenting the current available strategies for the management of AFFs. Methods We present an evaluation of current literature relating to the pathogenesis and treatment of AFFs in the context of bisphosphonate use. Results Six broad themes relating to the pathogenesis and management of bisphosphonate-related AFFs are presented. The key themes in fracture pathogenesis are: bone microdamage accumulation; altered bone mineralisation and altered collagen formation. The key themes in fracture management are: medical therapy and surgical therapy. In addition, primary prevention strategies for AFFs are discussed. Conclusions This article presents current knowledge about the relationship between bisphosphonates and the development of AFFs, and highlights key areas for future research. In particular, studies aimed at identifying at-risk subpopulations and organising surveillance for those on long-term therapy will be crucial in both increasing our understanding of the condition, and improving population outcomes. Cite this article: N. Kharwadkar, B. Mayne, J. E. Lawrence, V. Khanduja. Bisphosphonates and atypical subtrochanteric fractures of the femur. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:144–153. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.63.BJR-2016-0125.R1. PMID:28288986

[Mental health implications of workplace discrimination against sexual and gender minorities: A literature review].

PubMed

Geoffroy, Marie; Chamberland, Line

Despite legislative advances in terms of workplace equality for sexual and gender minorities (SGM), available data ascertains the persistence of workplace discrimination of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and especially of transgender/transsexual employees. This article, based on an extensive literature review, explores the relationship between different types of workplace discrimination experiences and their impacts on the mental health of SGM and of different sub-populations: men who have sex with men, non-heterosexual women, lesbian and gay parents, and trans people. Furthermore, the article explores certain individual and systemic protection and risk factors that have an impact on this relationship, such as coming-out at work and organisational support. Finally, the existing literature on workplace discrimination and mental health of sexual and gender minorities highlights the importance, in the current legal and social context, of intersectional approaches and of research on homo- and trans-negative microaggressions. The article ends with a discussion on the implications for practice, research, and workplace settings, as well as with several recommendations for these settings.

Three-Dimensional Display Technologies for Anatomical Education: A Literature Review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackett, Matthew; Proctor, Michael

2016-08-01

Anatomy is a foundational component of biological sciences and medical education and is important for a variety of clinical tasks. To augment current curriculum and improve students' spatial knowledge of anatomy, many educators, anatomists, and researchers use three-dimensional (3D) visualization technologies. This article reviews 3D display technologies and their associated assessments for anatomical education. In the first segment, the review covers the general function of displays employing 3D techniques. The second segment of the review highlights the use and assessment of 3D technology in anatomical education, focusing on factors such as knowledge gains, student perceptions, and cognitive load. The review found 32 articles on the use of 3D displays in anatomical education and another 38 articles on the assessment of 3D displays. The review shows that the majority (74 %) of studies indicate that the use of 3D is beneficial for many tasks in anatomical education, and that student perceptions are positive toward the technology.

Emerging Trends in Healthcare Adoption of Wireless Body Area Networks.

PubMed

Rangarajan, Anuradha

2016-01-01

Real-time personal health monitoring is gaining new ground with advances in wireless communications. Wireless body area networks (WBANs) provide a means for low-powered sensors, affixed either on the human body or in vivo, to communicate with each other and with external telecommunication networks. The healthcare benefits of WBANs include continuous monitoring of patient vitals, measuring postacute rehabilitation time, and improving quality of medical care provided in medical emergencies. This study sought to examine emerging trends in WBAN adoption in healthcare. To that end, a systematic literature survey was undertaken against the PubMed database. The search criteria focused on peer-reviewed articles that contained the keywords "wireless body area network" and "healthcare" or "wireless body area network" and "health care." A comprehensive review of these articles was performed to identify adoption dimensions, including underlying technology framework, healthcare subdomain, and applicable lessons-learned. This article benefits healthcare technology professionals by identifying gaps in implementation of current technology and highlighting opportunities for improving products and services.

Cardioembolic Stroke.

PubMed

O'Carroll, Cumara B; Barrett, Kevin M

2017-02-01

Cardioembolic stroke is common and disproportionately more disabling than nonembolic mechanisms of stroke. Its incidence is expected to rise because of the age-related incidence of atrial fibrillation and an aging population. This article summarizes the different causes of cardioembolism and outlines current management guidelines. Since cardioembolic stroke is not a single disease entity, its diagnosis requires initial clinical suspicion and a comprehensive evaluation, including ECG, echocardiography, brain imaging, and cardiac monitoring. Atrial fibrillation is the most common cause of cardioembolic stroke, and anticoagulation is usually recommended. This article reviews risk stratification models to assist in the decision-making process and highlights the increased use of novel oral anticoagulants for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation. New data support the importance of prolonged cardiac monitoring for diagnosing occult atrial fibrillation. Current data on other mechanisms of cardioembolic stroke, such as prosthetic heart valves and aortic arch atherosclerosis, are also presented, and the available evidence regarding patent foramen ovale closure in cryptogenic stroke is summarized. Cardioembolism is an important cause of ischemic stroke, with diverse underlying mechanisms requiring a tailored approach to diagnosis, management, and prevention.

Women in Planetary Science: Career Resources and e-Mentoring on Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and Pinterest

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niebur, S. M.; Singer, K.; Gardner-Vandy, K.

2012-08-01

Fifty-one interviews with women in planetary science are now available as an e-mentoring and teaching resource on WomeninPlanetaryScience.com. Each scientist was nominated and interviewed by a fellow member of the planetary science community, and each gladly shared her advice for advancement in the field. Women in Planetary Science was founded in 2008 to connect communities of current and prospective scientists, to promote proposal and award opportunities, and to stimulate discussion in the planetary science community at large. Regular articles, or posts, by nearly a dozen collaborators highlight a range of current issues for women in this field. These articles are promoted by collaborators on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+ and shared again by the collaborators' contacts, reaching a significantly wider audience. The group's latest project, on Pinterest, is a crowd-sourced photo gallery of more than 350 inspiring women in planetary science; each photo links to the scientist's CV. The interviews, the essays, and the photo gallery are available online as resources for prospective scientists, planetary scientists, parents, and educators.

Life cycle assessment part 2: current impact assessment practice.

PubMed

Pennington, D W; Potting, J; Finnveden, G; Lindeijer, E; Jolliet, O; Rydberg, T; Rebitzer, G

2004-07-01

Providing our society with goods and services contributes to a wide range of environmental impacts. Waste generation, emissions and the consumption of resources occur at many stages in a product's life cycle-from raw material extraction, energy acquisition, production and manufacturing, use, reuse, recycling, through to ultimate disposal. These all contribute to impacts such as climate change, stratospheric ozone depletion, photooxidant formation (smog), eutrophication, acidification, toxicological stress on human health and ecosystems, the depletion of resources and noise-among others. The need exists to address these product-related contributions more holistically and in an integrated manner, providing complimentary insights to those of regulatory/process-oriented methodologies. A previous article (Part 1, Rebitzer et al., 2004) outlined how to define and model a product's life cycle in current practice, as well as the methods and tools that are available for compiling the associated waste, emissions and resource consumption data into a life cycle inventory. This article highlights how practitioners and researchers from many domains have come together to provide indicators for the different impacts attributable to products in the life cycle impact assessment (LCIA) phase of life cycle assessment (LCA).

Current status of knowledge on public-speaking anxiety.

PubMed

Pull, Charles B

2012-01-01

This review examines the current knowledge on public-speaking anxiety, that is, the fear of speaking in front of others. This article summarizes the findings from previous review articles and describes new research findings on basic science aspects, prevalence rates, classification, and treatment that have been published between August 2008 and August 2011. Recent findings highlight the major aspects of psychological and physiological reactivity to public speaking in individuals who are afraid to speak in front of others, confirm high prevalence rates of the disorder, contribute to identifying the disorder as a possibly distinct subtype of social anxiety disorder (SAD), and give support to the efficacy of treatment programs using virtual reality exposure and Internet-based self-help. Public-speaking anxiety is a highly prevalent disorder, leading to excessive psychological and physiological reactivity. It is present in a majority of individuals with SAD and there is substantial evidence that it may be a distinct subtype of SAD. It is amenable to treatment including, in particular, new technologies such as exposure to virtual environments and the use of cognitive-behavioral self-help programs delivered on the Internet.

Interface-induced phenomena in magnetism

DOE PAGES

Hellman, Frances; Hoffmann, Axel; Tserkovnyak, Yaroslav; ...

2017-06-05

Our article reviews static and dynamic interfacial effects in magnetism, focusing on interfacially-driven magnetic effects and phenomena associated with spin-orbit coupling and intrinsic symmetry breaking at interfaces. It provides a historical background and literature survey, but focuses on recent progress, identifying the most exciting new scientific results and pointing to promising future research directions. It starts with an introduction and overview of how basic magnetic properties are affected by interfaces, then turns to a discussion of charge and spin transport through and near interfaces and how these can be used to control the properties of the magnetic layer. Important conceptsmore » include spin accumulation, spin currents, spin transfer torque, and spin pumping. We provide an overview for the current state of knowledge and existing review literature on interfacial effects such as exchange bias, exchange spring magnets, spin Hall effect, oxide heterostructures, and topological insulators. Our article highlights recent discoveries of interface-induced magnetism and non-collinear spin textures, non-linear dynamics including spin torque transfer and magnetization reversal induced by interfaces, and interfacial effects in ultrafast magnetization processes.« less

Interface-Induced Phenomena in Magnetism

PubMed Central

Hoffmann, Axel; Tserkovnyak, Yaroslav; Beach, Geoffrey S. D.; Fullerton, Eric E.; Leighton, Chris; MacDonald, Allan H.; Ralph, Daniel C.; Arena, Dario A.; Dürr, Hermann A.; Fischer, Peter; Grollier, Julie; Heremans, Joseph P.; Jungwirth, Tomas; Kimel, Alexey V.; Koopmans, Bert; Krivorotov, Ilya N.; May, Steven J.; Petford-Long, Amanda K.; Rondinelli, James M.; Samarth, Nitin; Schuller, Ivan K.; Slavin, Andrei N.; Stiles, Mark D.; Tchernyshyov, Oleg; Thiaville, André; Zink, Barry L.

2017-01-01

This article reviews static and dynamic interfacial effects in magnetism, focusing on interfacially-driven magnetic effects and phenomena associated with spin-orbit coupling and intrinsic symmetry breaking at interfaces. It provides a historical background and literature survey, but focuses on recent progress, identifying the most exciting new scientific results and pointing to promising future research directions. It starts with an introduction and overview of how basic magnetic properties are affected by interfaces, then turns to a discussion of charge and spin transport through and near interfaces and how these can be used to control the properties of the magnetic layer. Important concepts include spin accumulation, spin currents, spin transfer torque, and spin pumping. An overview is provided to the current state of knowledge and existing review literature on interfacial effects such as exchange bias, exchange spring magnets, spin Hall effect, oxide heterostructures, and topological insulators. The article highlights recent discoveries of interface-induced magnetism and non-collinear spin textures, non-linear dynamics including spin torque transfer and magnetization reversal induced by interfaces, and interfacial effects in ultrafast magnetization processes. PMID:28890576

Female genital cosmetic surgery: a critical review of current knowledge and contemporary debates.

PubMed

Braun, Virginia

2010-07-01

Female genital cosmetic surgery procedures have gained popularity in the West in recent years. Marketing by surgeons promotes the surgeries, but professional organizations have started to question the promotion and practice of these procedures. Despite some surgeon claims of drastic transformations of psychological, emotional, and sexual life associated with the surgery, little reliable evidence of such effects exists. This article achieves two objectives. First, reviewing the published academic work on the topic, it identifies the current state of knowledge around female genital cosmetic procedures, as well as limitations in our knowledge. Second, examining a body of critical scholarship that raises sociological and psychological concerns not typically addressed in medical literature, it summarizes broader issues and debates. Overall, the article demonstrates a paucity of scientific knowledge and highlights a pressing need to consider the broader ramifications of surgical practices. "Today we have a whole society held in thrall to the drastic plastic of labial rejuvenation."( 1 ) "At the present time, the field of female cosmetic genital surgery is like the old Wild, Wild West: wide open and unregulated"( 2 ).

Chagas disease and globalization of the Amazon.

PubMed

Briceño-León, Roberto

2007-01-01

The increasing number of autochthonous cases of Chagas disease in the Amazon since the 1970s has led to fear that the disease may become a new public health problem in the region. This transformation in the disease's epidemiological pattern in the Amazon can be explained by environmental and social changes in the last 30 years. The current article draws on the sociological theory of perverse effects to explain these changes as the unwanted result of the shift from the "inward" development model prevailing until the 1970s to the "outward" model that we know as globalization, oriented by industrial forces and international trade. The current article highlights the implementation of five new patterns in agriculture, cattle-raising, mining, lumbering, and urban occupation that have generated changes in the environment and the traditional indigenous habitat and have led to migratory flows, deforestation, sedentary living, the presence of domestic animals, and changes in the habitat that facilitate colonization of human dwellings by vectors and the domestic and work-related transmission of the disease. The expansion of Chagas disease is thus a perverse effect of the globalization process in the Amazon.

Scoping review of response shift methods: current reporting practices and recommendations.

PubMed

Sajobi, Tolulope T; Brahmbatt, Ronak; Lix, Lisa M; Zumbo, Bruno D; Sawatzky, Richard

2018-05-01

Response shift (RS) has been defined as a change in the meaning of an individual's self-evaluation of his/her health status and quality of life. Several statistical model- and design-based methods have been developed to test for RS in longitudinal data. We reviewed the uptake of these methods in patient-reported outcomes (PRO) literature. CINHAHL, EMBASE, Medline, ProQuest, PsycINFO, and Web of Science were searched to identify English-language articles about RS published until 2016. Data on year and country of publication, PRO measure adopted, RS detection method, type of RS detected, and testing of underlying model assumptions were extracted from the included articles. Of the 1032 articles identified, 101 (9.8%) articles were included in the study. While 54.5 of the articles reported on the Then-test, 30.7% of the articles reported on Oort's or Schmitt's structural equation modeling (SEM) procedure. Newer RS detection methods, such as relative importance analysis and random forest regression, have been used less frequently. Less than 25% reported on testing the assumptions underlying the adopted RS detection method(s). Despite rapid methodological advancements in RS research, this review highlights the need for further research about RS detection methods for complex longitudinal data and standardized reporting guidelines.

Need for more research on and health interventions for transgender people.

PubMed

Ortiz-Martínez, Yeimer; Ríos-González, Carlos Miguel

2017-04-01

Background Recently, lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) scientific production is growing, but transgender (TG) people is less considered in the LGBT-related research, highlighting the lack of representative data on this neglected population. To assess the current status of scientific production on TG population, a bibliometric study was performed using the articles on TG people deposited in five databases, including PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Science Citation Index (SCI), Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS). The PubMed/Medline search retrieved 2370 documents, which represented 0.008% of all articles recorded in Medline. The Scopus search identified 4974 articles. At SCI, 2863 articles were identified. A search of the SciELO database identified 39 articles, whereas the LILACS search identified 44 articles. Most papers were from the US (57.59%), followed by Canada (5.15%), the UK (4.42%), Australia (3.19%), The Netherlands (2.46%) and Peru (1.83%). These six countries accounted for 74.6% of all scientific output. The findings indicate that the TG-related research is low, especially in low-income developing countries, where stigma and discrimination are common. More awareness, knowledge, and sensitivity in healthcare communities are needed to eliminate barriers in health attention and research in this population.

A critical review of cosmetic treatment outcomes in body dysmorphic disorder.

PubMed

Bowyer, Laura; Krebs, Georgina; Mataix-Cols, David; Veale, David; Monzani, Benedetta

2016-12-01

A high proportion of individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) undergo cosmetic treatments in an attempt to 'fix' perceived defect/s in their physical appearance. Despite the frequency with which such procedures are sought, few studies have prospectively examined the outcomes of cosmetic procedures in individuals with BDD. This article aims to critically review the literature and discuss the current debate that exists on outcomes of cosmetic treatment for individuals with BDD. An emerging literature suggests the majority of individuals with BDD have poor outcomes after cosmetic interventions; however, based on the current literature, it cannot be fully ruled out that certain individuals with mild BDD and localised appearance concerns may benefit from these interventions. Gaps in the current literature are highlighted, alongside recommendations for future research. Carefully conducted longitudinal studies with well-characterised patient populations are needed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Integrating Radiology and Anatomy Teaching in Medical Education in the UK--The Evidence, Current Trends, and Future Scope.

PubMed

Heptonstall, N B; Ali, T; Mankad, K

2016-04-01

This review article presents the current evidence of the importance of integrating radiology and anatomy in medical education in the UK, a recommendation by a number of key anatomy, education, and radiology organizations. Current evidence highlights that on average only 5% of total teaching time in medical education is dedicated to radiology. Often, radiology teaching does not adequately fulfill students' learning needs and potentially leaves them underprepared for medical practice. Benefits of integrating radiology and anatomy include improved clinical application of anatomy, an increase in student's interest in anatomy, and ultimately improved radiological interpretation. Various modalities exist for the integration of radiology and anatomy, facilitated by the vast portability of radiological images. It appears that combining radiological resources with traditional anatomy teaching methodology in a blended approach is most beneficial. Copyright © 2016 The Association of University Radiologists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Recognizing the value of assistance dogs in society.

PubMed

Audrestch, Hilary M; Whelan, Chantelle T; Grice, David; Asher, Lucy; England, Gary C W; Freeman, Sarah L

2015-10-01

Assistance dogs are specially trained to undertake a variety of tasks to help individuals with disabilities. This review gives an overview of the different types of assistance dogs in the UK, including guide dogs, hearing dogs, mobility assistance dogs, service dogs and dual-purpose dogs. The literature describes many benefits of assistance dogs, including their impact on physical wellbeing and safety of their 'owners,' as well as on psychological wellbeing and social inclusion. The role of assistance dogs in society is widely recognized by the public, but is not currently acknowledged in government social policy. The current evidence on the benefits of assistance dogs is limited by the type and scale of current research. This article highlights the need for independent funding for high quality research to enable social care and policy makers to make evidence-based decisions on the value of assistance dogs to people with disabilities. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Monte Carlo modelling of Schottky diode for rectenna simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bernuchon, E.; Aniel, F.; Zerounian, N.; Grimault-Jacquin, A. S.

2017-09-01

Before designing a detector circuit, the electrical parameters extraction of the Schottky diode is a critical step. This article is based on a Monte-Carlo (MC) solver of the Boltzmann Transport Equation (BTE) including different transport mechanisms at the metal-semiconductor contact such as image force effect or tunneling. The weight of tunneling and thermionic current is quantified according to different degrees of tunneling modelling. The I-V characteristic highlights the dependence of the ideality factor and the current saturation with bias. Harmonic Balance (HB) simulation on a rectifier circuit within Advanced Design System (ADS) software shows that considering non-linear ideality factor and saturation current for the electrical model of the Schottky diode does not seem essential. Indeed, bias independent values extracted in forward regime on I-V curve are sufficient. However, the non-linear series resistance extracted from a small signal analysis (SSA) strongly influences the conversion efficiency at low input powers.

Fee-for-service will remain a feature of major payment reforms, requiring more changes in Medicare physician payment.

PubMed

Ginsburg, Paul B

2012-09-01

Many health policy analysts envision provider payment reforms currently under development as replacements for the traditional fee-for-service payment system. Reforms include per episode bundled payment and elements of capitation, such as global payments or accountable care organizations. But even if these approaches succeed and are widely adopted, the core method of payment to many physicians for the services they provide is likely to remain fee-for-service. It is therefore critical to address the current shortcomings in the Medicare physician fee schedule, because it will affect physician incentives and will continue to play an important role in determining the payment amounts under payment reform. This article reviews how the current payment system developed and is applied, and it highlights areas that require careful review and modification to ensure the success of broader payment reform.

Global Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Closer Look at the Formidable Implementation Challenges

PubMed Central

Tiong, John J. L.; Loo, Jason S. E.; Mai, Chun-Wai

2016-01-01

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) has been touted as one of the key strategies required in tackling worldwide escalation of antibiotic resistance. Although AMS has optimized antibiotic usage and reduced the incidence of resistance development in some regions, its full global potential has been curtailed by various AMS-impeding factors. This article seeks to highlight in a detailed perspective, the key challenges that hamper global AMS endeavors, some of which include the paucity of effective implementation strategies that cater for the challenging settings of developing nations, the slow response of governments, uncoordinated AMS activities as well as implementation fragmentation across different sectors and countries. The authors of this article call upon all stakeholders to pay attention to these seemingly obvious but often under-addressed problems. If left unresolved, this may render all current and future AMS initiatives pointless. PMID:27899924

Comments to Nordmo et al.'s article: effect of hardiness.

PubMed

Lucavei, Júlia; Pougnet, Laurence; Dewitte, Jean-Dominique; Loddé, Brice; Pougnet, Richard

2017-01-01

We would like to comment on Nordmo et al.'s article on hardiness among Norwegian Royal Navy seamen. The article is very interesting. Understanding the sleep disorders of the military can indeed make it possible to favour the preservation of their health and their competencies. The authors have highlighted the limitations of their study. They will take into account the sleep disorder factors already described in literature, such as: noise, comfort on board, shift organisations, etc. We would like to make two comments: on the one hand, highlight another limit to help future studies; on the other hand, open another perspective of prevention, not described in this article.

A Primer on Observational Measurement.

PubMed

Girard, Jeffrey M; Cohn, Jeffrey F

2016-08-01

Observational measurement plays an integral role in a variety of scientific endeavors within biology, psychology, sociology, education, medicine, and marketing. The current article provides an interdisciplinary primer on observational measurement; in particular, it highlights recent advances in observational methodology and the challenges that accompany such growth. First, we detail the various types of instrument that can be used to standardize measurements across observers. Second, we argue for the importance of validity in observational measurement and provide several approaches to validation based on contemporary validity theory. Third, we outline the challenges currently faced by observational researchers pertaining to measurement drift, observer reactivity, reliability analysis, and time/expense. Fourth, we describe recent advances in computer-assisted measurement, fully automated measurement, and statistical data analysis. Finally, we identify several key directions for future observational research to explore.

Is there a prospect for hybrid aortic arch surgery?

PubMed

Bashir, Mohamad; Harky, Amer; Bilal, Haris

2018-05-16

The surge of endovascular repair of aortic aneurysm in current modern aortic surgery practice has been the key for surgical management of elective cases of thoracic aortic aneurysms. This has paved way for the combined hybrid approach to be amongst the armamentarium for the management of aortic arch disease. The pivotal understanding of the aortic arch natural history coupled with device technology advancement allowed surgeons insight into delivery of hybrid surgery with acceptable morbidity and mortality results. This review article provides current insights into hybrid technique of aortic arch aneurysm repair and the evidences behind its applicability to arch surgery. It is aimed to highlight the challenges encountered for this innovative approach and correlate its challenges to those that are met by the conventional open aortic arch repair.

[Mass casualty incidents - current concepts and developments].

PubMed

Savinsky, Godo; Stuhr, Markus; Kappus, Stefan; Trümpler, Stefan; Wenderoth, Stephan; Wohlers, Jan-Hauke; Paschen, Hans-Richard; Kerner, Thoralf

2014-12-01

Medical concepts and strategies are permanently changing. Due to the emergency response in a mass casualty incident everyone who is involved has to work together with different organisations and public authorities, which are not part of the regular emergency medical service. Within the last 25 years throughout the whole country of Germany the role of a "chief emergency physician" has been implemented and in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2006 mobile treatment units were set up. In 2007, special units of the "Medical Task Force" - funded by the german state - were introduced and have been established by now. They will be a permanent part of regional plannings for mass casualty incidents. This article highlights current concepts and developments in different parts of Germany. © Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York.

Modern Advances in Genetic Testing: Ethical Challenges and Training Implications for Current and Future Psychologists

PubMed Central

Richmond-Rakerd, Leah S.

2014-01-01

The ethical implications for psychological practice of genetic testing are largely unexplored. Predictive testing can have a significant impact on health and well-being, and increasing numbers of individuals with knowledge of their risk for various disorders are likely to present for psychotherapy. In addition, more people will struggle with the decision of whether to obtain information regarding their genetic material. Psychologists will need to have the appropriate knowledge and clinical skills to effectively counsel this population. This article highlights the relevant ethical issues surrounding psychological treatment of individuals pursuing or considering undergoing genetic testing. These issues are extended to psychologists working in research, education, and policy domains. Recommendations for graduate training programs to facilitate current and future practitioner competence are also discussed. PMID:24707160

Spatial organization of multi-enzyme biocatalytic cascades.

PubMed

Quin, M B; Wallin, K K; Zhang, G; Schmidt-Dannert, C

2017-05-23

Industrial biocatalysis is an economically attractive option for the production of valuable chemicals. Our repertoire of cheap building blocks and commodity target molecules is vastly enhanced by multi-enzyme biocatalytic cascades. In order to achieve suitable titers in complex novel biocatalytic schemes, spatial organization may become necessary to overcome barriers caused by slow or inhibited enzymes as well as instability of biocatalysts. A number of spatial organization strategies are currently available, which could be integrated in the design of complex cascades. These include fusion proteins, immobilization on solid supports, multi-dimensional scaffolding, and encapsulation within vessels. This review article highlights recent advances in cascade biocatalysis, discusses the role of spatial organization in reaction kinetics, and presents some of the currently employed strategies for spatial organization of multi-enzyme cascades.

Romantic Joseph Lenné Landscape Park in Zatonie Near Zielona Góra as a Relic of Garden Art - Modern-Day Transformations and Threats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kochańska, Agnieszka

2016-09-01

The romantic landscape park was established in 1824 by order of one of the best-known aristocrats at the time, Princess Dorothea Talleyrand Perigold, Dutchess of Dino. The park is an example of amenity horticulture of artistic value that has survived to this day. The creator of the park was the talented landscape architect Peter Joseph Lenné. In its current state, the park differs significantly from the image on lithographs of the past. Upon carrying out field investigations and comparative studies, it was established that the maintained stand of tress holds high compositional value. The conclusions of the article define the current threats to the longevity of the park as well as highlighting the plan of revalorization works.

Frequent hemodialysis in children.

PubMed

Warady, Bradley A; Fischbach, Michel; Geary, Denis; Goldstein, Stuart L

2007-07-01

Frequent hemodialysis is currently conducted in a limited number of pediatric dialysis centers. However, the preliminary experience with children who have undergone procedures such as "daily" intensive hemodiafiltration and nocturnal hemodialysis has been positive, with the allowance for unrestricted diets and fluid intake, the lack of need for phosphate binders, excellent metabolic and blood pressure control, and, in the case of hemodiafiltration, excellent growth. The provision of frequent daily hemodialysis with the NxStage System has also recently been introduced to pediatrics. An overview about what is currently understood regarding the technical and clinical application of these approaches to therapy for children with end-stage renal disease form the basis for this article and highlight the impact of the procedures to date and the need for additional experience and collaborative data collection.

The physiological functions of central nervous system pericytes and a potential role in pain

PubMed Central

Beazley-Long, Nicholas; Durrant, Alexandra M; Swift, Matthew N; Donaldson, Lucy F

2018-01-01

Central nervous system (CNS) pericytes regulate critical functions of the neurovascular unit in health and disease. CNS pericytes are an attractive pharmacological target for their position within the neurovasculature and for their role in neuroinflammation. Whether the function of CNS pericytes also affects pain states and nociceptive mechanisms is currently not understood. Could it be that pericytes hold the key to pain associated with CNS blood vessel dysfunction? This article reviews recent findings on the important physiological functions of CNS pericytes and highlights how these neurovascular functions could be linked to pain states. PMID:29623199

Gambling disorder in adolescents: prevalence, new developments, and treatment challenges

PubMed Central

Floros, Georgios D

2018-01-01

Research on adolescence gambling over the past twenty years has revealed significant incidence and prevalence rates and highlighted the possible negative effects on an adolescent’s well-being. Several risk and protective factors have also been identified. Over the course of the past few years, technological advances have heralded the advent of new avenues for gambling as well as new opportunities to gamble without any direct monetary exchange. This review article examines those established trends as well as the new issues that we are faced with, in order to accurately portray the current challenges in research, prevention, and treatment. PMID:29535564

Twenty years of terahertz imaging [Invited].

PubMed

Mittleman, Daniel M

2018-04-16

The birth of terahertz imaging approximately coincides with the birth of the journal Optics Express. The 20 th anniversary of the journal is therefore an opportune moment to consider the state of progress in the field of terahertz imaging. This article discusses some of the compelling reasons that one may wish to form images in the THz range, in order to provide a perspective of how far the field has come since the early demonstrations of the mid-1990's. It then focuses on a few of the more prominent frontiers of current research, highlighting their impacts on both fundamental science and applications.

Isolation and analysis of ginseng: advances and challenges

PubMed Central

Wang, Chong-Zhi

2011-01-01

Ginseng occupies a prominent position in the list of best-selling natural products in the world. Because of its complex constituents, multidisciplinary techniques are needed to validate the analytical methods that support ginseng’s use worldwide. In the past decade, rapid development of technology has advanced many aspects of ginseng research. The aim of this review is to illustrate the recent advances in the isolation and analysis of ginseng, and to highlight their new applications and challenges. Emphasis is placed on recent trends and emerging techniques. The current article reviews the literature between January 2000 and September 2010. PMID:21258738

Are you prepared? Defining occupational health resource needs to prevent infectious disease transmission in the health care sector.

PubMed

Pollock, S L; Yassi, A; Connell, I; Gamage, B; Copes, R

2009-01-01

This article discusses the extent of resource allocation to Occupational Health (OH) to prevent infectious disease exposure and transmission in British Columbia (B.C.). It also characterizes the delineation of roles and responsibilities within OH services in B.C. health care settings and highlights areas where improvements to current OH programs could be made to prevent and control occupational infections. Given the breadth of OH responsibilities, resource allocation in many health care institutions for these services is inadequate and roles and responsibilities may not be clearly delineated.

Towards a model of loss navigation in adolescence.

PubMed

Lytje, Martin

2017-01-01

Researchers today consider childhood bereavement one of the most traumatic experiences that can befall a child. Nevertheless, most models of bereavement currently limit themselves to dealing with adult grief and primarily explores the internal processes associated with recovery. Based on a study which conducted focus groups with 39 Danish adolescents (aged 9-17), this article presents The Model of Loss Navigation in Adolescence. Centered on the three factors-Being Different, Being in Control, and Being in Grief-the model highlight the social conventions children have to navigate and how these influences both their day-to-day lives and their road to recovery.

Cell biology of prokaryotic organelles.

PubMed

Murat, Dorothee; Byrne, Meghan; Komeili, Arash

2010-10-01

Mounting evidence in recent years has challenged the dogma that prokaryotes are simple and undefined cells devoid of an organized subcellular architecture. In fact, proteins once thought to be the purely eukaryotic inventions, including relatives of actin and tubulin control prokaryotic cell shape, DNA segregation, and cytokinesis. Similarly, compartmentalization, commonly noted as a distinguishing feature of eukaryotic cells, is also prevalent in the prokaryotic world in the form of protein-bounded and lipid-bounded organelles. In this article we highlight some of these prokaryotic organelles and discuss the current knowledge on their ultrastructure and the molecular mechanisms of their biogenesis and maintenance.

Gambling disorder in adolescents: prevalence, new developments, and treatment challenges.

PubMed

Floros, Georgios D

2018-01-01

Research on adolescence gambling over the past twenty years has revealed significant incidence and prevalence rates and highlighted the possible negative effects on an adolescent's well-being. Several risk and protective factors have also been identified. Over the course of the past few years, technological advances have heralded the advent of new avenues for gambling as well as new opportunities to gamble without any direct monetary exchange. This review article examines those established trends as well as the new issues that we are faced with, in order to accurately portray the current challenges in research, prevention, and treatment.

Optimizing root system architecture in biofuel crops for sustainable energy production and soil carbon sequestration.

PubMed

To, Jennifer Pc; Zhu, Jinming; Benfey, Philip N; Elich, Tedd

2010-09-08

Root system architecture (RSA) describes the dynamic spatial configuration of different types and ages of roots in a plant, which allows adaptation to different environments. Modifications in RSA enhance agronomic traits in crops and have been implicated in soil organic carbon content. Together, these fundamental properties of RSA contribute to the net carbon balance and overall sustainability of biofuels. In this article, we will review recent data supporting carbon sequestration by biofuel crops, highlight current progress in studying RSA, and discuss future opportunities for optimizing RSA for biofuel production and soil carbon sequestration.

Vaccination of Ferrets for Rabies and Distemper.

PubMed

Wade, Laura L

2018-01-01

Companion ferrets need to be vaccinated against 2 viral diseases that cause neurologic illness: canine distemper and rabies. Although not common in ferrets, both viruses are fatal in ferrets and rabies virus is also fatal in humans. In this article, we provide a basic review of the 2 diseases, highlighting key neurologic concerns. We also review and update current vaccine concerns from a practitioner's perspective, including available vaccines, vaccine schedule recommendations, vaccine reactions, and risk assessment. Last, we mention the ferret and its use in cutting-edge vaccine development. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Child health in Syria: recognising the lasting effects of warfare on health.

PubMed

Devakumar, Delan; Birch, Marion; Rubenstein, Leonard S; Osrin, David; Sondorp, Egbert; Wells, Jonathan C K

2015-01-01

The war in Syria, now in its fourth year, is one of the bloodiest in recent times. The legacy of war includes damage to the health of children that can last for decades and affect future generations. In this article we discuss the effects of the war on Syria's children, highlighting the less documented longer-term effects. In addition to their present suffering, these children, and their own children, are likely to face further challenges as a result of the current conflict. This is essential to understand both for effective interventions and for ethical reasons.

Digital Suicide Prevention: Can Technology Become a Game-changer?

PubMed Central

Sahin, Ned; Kalali, Amir

2016-01-01

Suicide continues to be a leading cause of death and has been recognized as a significant public health issue. Rapid advances in data science can provide us with useful tools for suicide prevention, and help to dynamically assess suicide risk in quantitative data-driven ways. In this article, the authors highlight the most current international research in digital suicide prevention, including the use of machine learning, smartphone applications, and wearable sensor driven systems. The authors also discuss future opportunities for digital suicide prevention, and propose a novel Sensor-driven Mental State Assessment System. PMID:27800282

Robotic surgery.

PubMed

Stoianovici, D

2000-09-01

The industrial revolution demonstrated the capability of robotic systems to facilitate and improve manufacturing. As a result, robotics extended to various other domains, including the delivery of health care. Hence, robots have been developed to assist hospital staff, to facilitate laboratory analyses, to augment patient rehabilitation, and even to advance surgical performance. As robotics lead usefulness and gain wider acceptance among the surgical community, the urologist should become familiar with this new interdisciplinary field and its "URobotics" subset: robotics applied to urology. This article reviews the current applications and experience, issues and debates in surgical robotics, and highlights future directions in the field.

Multiple Chronic Conditions and Healthcare Costs among Adults

PubMed Central

Sambamoorthi, Usha; Tan, Xi; Deb, Arijita

2015-01-01

The prevalence of multiple chronic conditions (MCC) is increasing among individuals of all ages. MCC are associated with poor health outcomes. The presence of MCC has profound healthcare utilization and cost implications for public and private insurance payers, individuals, and families. Investigators have used a variety of definitions for MCC to evaluate costs associated with MCC. The objective of this article is to examine the current literature in estimating excess costs associated with MCC among adults. The discussion highlights some of the theoretical and technical merits of various MCC definitions and models used to estimate the excess costs associated with MCC. PMID:26400220

The Challenge of Assessing Microcephaly in the Context of the Zika Virus Epidemic.

PubMed

Quintó, Llorenç; García-Basteiro, Alberto L; Bardají, Azucena; González, Raquel; Padilla, Norma; Martinez-Espinosa, Flor E; Arévalo-Herrera, Myriam; Macete, Eusébio; Menéndez, Clara

2017-03-10

The present article examines the impact of the current limitations of the microcephaly definition in the context of the Zika virus outbreak. It highlights its dependence on the method used for determining gestational age and other anthropometric parameters, and includes original results of prevalence of microcephaly in four countries from two different continents (Mozambique, Brazil, Guatemala and Colombia). Alternative definitions of microcephaly are proposed to allow the identification of true cases of microcephaly in a more accurate manner. © The Author [2017]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Anorexia of Aging.

PubMed

Visvanathan, Renuka

2015-08-01

The anorexia of aging is common, leading to adverse health consequences. As populations age, the impacts from anorexia in the older population are set to increase. Only greater awareness will allow for prevention or early intervention. This article discusses the physiologic anorexia of aging, highlights contributing factors, and proposes management strategies, including screening, especially in primary care. Many neuroendocrine factors have been implicated in the pathophysiology; it is clear that further human research is necessary if there is to be a pharmacologic breakthrough. There are currently no approved pharmacologic treatment strategies to prevent or treat the anorexia of aging. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dual use application of killer app FHE products for Mil/Aero

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackler, R. Douglas

2016-05-01

The flexible electronics industry has adopted flexible hybrid electronic (FHE) systems as a go to market strategy. High volume products are emerging for body worn bio patches, conformal structural appliques and smart labels. These products were principally developed for volume consumer and industrial market solutions but are directly applicable to advanced defense systems. This article highlights the state of the art for bio patch, conformal and smart FHE products and identifies their dual use capability for defense systems. A discussion of the manufacturing base for FHE products is presented and current experimental prototype results and performance are shared.

Mesa redonda: Materia oscura vs. gravitación alternativa. Aciertos y problemas de ambos paradigmas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landau, S. J.

2016-08-01

The dark matter paradigm was proposed in 1933 to try to explain the behavior of the rotation curves of galaxies and clusters. Subsequently, other explanations based on modifications to the current theory of gravitation were proposed. This article briefly describes both proposals, highlighting the successes and problems in each case. In the case of dark matter, the main problem is not detecting it in terrestrial experiments. On the other hand, the alternative theories of gravity couldn't explain the data from the cosmic background radiation and the large-scale structure observed in galaxy surveys.

Reevaluating simulation in nursing education: beyond the human patient simulator.

PubMed

Schiavenato, Martin

2009-07-01

The human patient simulator or high-fidelity mannequin has become synonymous with the word simulation in nursing education. Founded on a historical context and on an evaluation of the current application of simulation in nursing education, this article challenges that assumption as limited and restrictive. A definition of simulation and a broader conceptualization of its application in nursing education are presented. The need for an ideological basis for simulation in nursing education is highlighted. The call is made for theory to answer the question of why simulation is used in nursing to anchor its proper and effective application in nursing education.

Current progress in asymmetric Biginelli reaction: an update.

PubMed

Heravi, Majid M; Moradi, Razieh; Mohammadkhani, Leyla; Moradi, Borzou

2018-06-23

The Biginelli reaction, involving a three-component reaction of an aromatic aldehyde, urea and ethyl acetoacetate, has emerged as an extremely useful synthetic tool to organic chemists for the synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidine-2-(1H)-ones and related heterocyclic compounds. In the past decades, the asymmetric variants of this reaction have been at the forefront of investigations in several research groups. In 2013, we highlighted the developments occurred in the asymmetric version of the Biginelli reaction. This review article focuses on the recent developments of asymmetric Biginelli reaction covers the literature going back to 2012.

Neuroscience-Inspired Artificial Intelligence.

PubMed

Hassabis, Demis; Kumaran, Dharshan; Summerfield, Christopher; Botvinick, Matthew

2017-07-19

The fields of neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI) have a long and intertwined history. In more recent times, however, communication and collaboration between the two fields has become less commonplace. In this article, we argue that better understanding biological brains could play a vital role in building intelligent machines. We survey historical interactions between the AI and neuroscience fields and emphasize current advances in AI that have been inspired by the study of neural computation in humans and other animals. We conclude by highlighting shared themes that may be key for advancing future research in both fields. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

[Gastrointestinal surgery and gastroenterology. I. Introduction].

PubMed

van Lanschot, J J

1999-09-25

The enormous increase in theoretical knowledge and technical possibilities in general surgery has led to differentiation and subspecialization. Gastrointestinal surgery is now recognized as a distinguished area of specific interest within the field of general surgery. It covers the surgical diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant diseases of the digestive tract, including liver and pancreas. Most gastrointestinal diseases require a multidisciplinary approach in which the gastroenterologist and the gastrointestinal surgeon are key figures. This Journal is planning a series of articles highlighting the recent developments and current state of the art of gastrointestinal surgery, with special emphasis on the close connection with gastroenterology.

Investment, regulation, and uncertainty: managing new plant breeding techniques.

PubMed

Smyth, Stuart J; McDonald, Jillian; Falck-Zepeda, Jose

2014-01-01

As with any technological innovation, time refines the technology, improving upon the original version of the innovative product. The initial GM crops had single traits for either herbicide tolerance or insect resistance. Current varieties have both of these traits stacked together and in many cases other abiotic and biotic traits have also been stacked. This innovation requires investment. While this is relatively straight forward, certain conditions need to exist such that investments can be facilitated. The principle requirement for investment is that regulatory frameworks render consistent and timely decisions. If the certainty of regulatory outcomes weakens, the potential for changes in investment patterns increases.   This article provides a summary background to the leading plant breeding technologies that are either currently being used to develop new crop varieties or are in the pipeline to be applied to plant breeding within the next few years. Challenges for existing regulatory systems are highlighted. Utilizing an option value approach from investment literature, an assessment of uncertainty regarding the regulatory approval for these varying techniques is undertaken. This research highlights which technology development options have the greatest degree of uncertainty and hence, which ones might be expected to see an investment decline.

Manufacturing recombinant proteins in kg-ton quantities using animal cells in bioreactors.

PubMed

De Jesus, Maria; Wurm, Florian M

2011-06-01

Mammalian cells in bioreactors as production host are the focus of this review. We wish to briefly describe today's technical status and to highlight emerging trends in the manufacture of recombinant therapeutic proteins, focusing on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. CHO cells are the manufacturing host system of choice for more than 70% of protein pharmaceuticals on the market [21]. The current global capacity to grow mammalian cells in bioreactors stands at about 0.5 million liters, whereby the largest vessels can have a working volume of about 20,000l. We are focusing in this article on the upstream part of protein manufacturing. Over the past 25 years, volumetric yields for recombinant cell lines have increased about 20-fold mainly as the result of improvements in media and bioprocess design. Future yield increases are expected to come from improved gene delivery methods, from improved, possibly genetically modified host systems, and from further improved bioprocesses in bioreactors. Other emerging trends in protein manufacturing that are discussed include the use of disposal bioreactors and transient gene expression. We specifically highlight here current research in our own laboratories. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Investment, regulation, and uncertainty

PubMed Central

Smyth, Stuart J; McDonald, Jillian; Falck-Zepeda, Jose

2014-01-01

As with any technological innovation, time refines the technology, improving upon the original version of the innovative product. The initial GM crops had single traits for either herbicide tolerance or insect resistance. Current varieties have both of these traits stacked together and in many cases other abiotic and biotic traits have also been stacked. This innovation requires investment. While this is relatively straight forward, certain conditions need to exist such that investments can be facilitated. The principle requirement for investment is that regulatory frameworks render consistent and timely decisions. If the certainty of regulatory outcomes weakens, the potential for changes in investment patterns increases.   This article provides a summary background to the leading plant breeding technologies that are either currently being used to develop new crop varieties or are in the pipeline to be applied to plant breeding within the next few years. Challenges for existing regulatory systems are highlighted. Utilizing an option value approach from investment literature, an assessment of uncertainty regarding the regulatory approval for these varying techniques is undertaken. This research highlights which technology development options have the greatest degree of uncertainty and hence, which ones might be expected to see an investment decline. PMID:24499745

Economic evaluation and end-stage renal disease: from basics to bedside.

PubMed

Manns, B J; Taub, K J; Donaldson, C

2000-07-01

Economic evaluation is the comparative analysis of alternative health care interventions in terms of their relative costs (resource use) and effectiveness (health effects). High-quality studies of economic evaluation have been increasingly published in medical journals and read by clinicians, although publication of these studies in nephrology journals has been a more recent phenomenon. This article shows how the basic principles of economics can be applied to health care through the use of economic evaluation. Different types of economic evaluation are discussed, and pitfalls common to such studies are identified. A simple framework is introduced that can be used to interpret the results of economic evaluations. Using this framework, selected therapies for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are categorized to highlight therapies that are very efficient, encourage their use, and draw attention to therapies in current use that are less effective and more expensive (ie, less efficient) than alternative therapy. Using examples pertinent to care of the patient with ESRD, we show how economic evaluation can be used to link medical outcomes, quality of life, and costs in a common index for multiple therapies with disparate outcome measures. This article highlights the need for clinical studies and economic evaluations of therapies in ESRD for which the effects of the therapy on health outcomes and/or costs are unknown.

Risk assessment of Bt crops on the non-target plant-associated insects and soil organisms.

PubMed

Yaqoob, Amina; Shahid, Ahmad Ali; Samiullah, Tahir Rehman; Rao, Abdul Qayyum; Khan, Muhammad Azmat Ullah; Tahir, Sana; Mirza, Safdar Ali; Husnain, Tayyab

2016-06-01

Transgenic plants containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes are being cultivated worldwide to express toxic insecticidal proteins. However, the commercial utilisation of Bt crops greatly highlights biosafety issues worldwide. Therefore, assessing the risks caused by genetically modified crops prior to their commercial cultivation is a critical issue to be addressed. In agricultural biotechnology, the goal of safety assessment is not just to identify the safety of a genetically modified (GM) plant, rather to demonstrate its impact on the ecosystem. Various experimental studies have been made worldwide during the last 20 years to investigate the risks and fears associated with non-target organisms (NTOs). The NTOs include beneficial insects, natural pest controllers, rhizobacteria, growth promoting microbes, pollinators, soil dwellers, aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates, mammals and humans. To highlight all the possible risks associated with different GM events, information has been gathered from a total of 76 articles, regarding non-target plant and soil inhabiting organisms, and summarised in the form of the current review article. No significant harmful impact has been reported in any case study related to approved GM events, although critical risk assessments are still needed before commercialisation of these crops. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

A discerning approach to simple aesthetic orthodontics.

PubMed

Noar, J H; Sharma, S; Roberts-Harry, D; Qureshi, T

2015-02-16

There is currently considerable interest from general dental practitioners (GDPs) in the use of simple orthodontics to treat adult malocclusions. There is controversy in this, particularly in relation to 'quick fixes', simple orthodontics and 'straight teeth in six months' as opposed to more conventional treatment where the whole malocclusion is treated. This article will present a case for the use of simple aesthetic adult orthodontics in a measured and planned way. It will discuss the processes, planning and the importance of consent. It will also highlight how digital technology is used to preview, consent and execute an aesthetic result. Many of the recent systems emerging, have been as a result of the demand and supply of cosmetic dentistry. This, to a degree, has not helped since the implication of a 'quick-fix' is associated with this field. There has also been discussion on what the limits of GDP orthodontics should be. There is variability in how GDPs approach orthodontics, their experience, skill and ability to treat to an acceptable standard. Short courses may be one way of delivering orthodontic training but some of these courses are not regulated and the amount of internal mentoring is variable. This article highlights some of the systems in use, and potential upsides and downsides of this approach.

Addressing unwarranted clinical variation: A rapid review of current evidence.

PubMed

Harrison, Reema; Manias, Elizabeth; Mears, Stephen; Heslop, David; Hinchcliff, Reece; Hay, Liz

2018-05-15

Unwarranted clinical variation (UCV) can be described as variation that can only be explained by differences in health system performance. There is a lack of clarity regarding how to define and identify UCV and, once identified, to determine whether it is sufficiently problematic to warrant action. As such, the implementation of systemic approaches to reducing UCV is challenging. A review of approaches to understand, identify, and address UCV was undertaken to determine how conceptual and theoretical frameworks currently attempt to define UCV, the approaches used to identify UCV, and the evidence of their effectiveness. Rapid evidence assessment (REA) methodology was used. A range of text words, synonyms, and subject headings were developed for the major concepts of unwarranted clinical variation, standards (and deviation from these standards), and health care environment. Two electronic databases (Medline and Pubmed) were searched from January 2006 to April 2017, in addition to hand searching of relevant journals, reference lists, and grey literature. Results were merged using reference-management software (Endnote) and duplicates removed. Inclusion criteria were independently applied to potentially relevant articles by 3 reviewers. Findings were presented in a narrative synthesis to highlight key concepts addressed in the published literature. A total of 48 relevant publications were included in the review; 21 articles were identified as eligible from the database search, 4 from hand searching published work and 23 from the grey literature. The search process highlighted the voluminous literature reporting clinical variation internationally; yet, there is a dearth of evidence regarding systematic approaches to identifying or addressing UCV. Wennberg's classification framework is commonly cited in relation to classifying variation, but no single approach is agreed upon to systematically explore and address UCV. The instances of UCV that warrant investigation and action are largely determined at a systems level currently, and stakeholder engagement in this process is limited. Lack of consensus on an evidence-based definition for UCV remains a substantial barrier to progress in this field. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Nursing patients with epilepsy in secondary care settings.

PubMed

Welsh, Rebecca; Kerley, Sarah

This article gives a brief overview of epilepsy and how a diagnosis is made. It highlights the importance of good observation and communication in its ongoing management. Long-term management of the condition and the acute management of seizures are considered. The article emphasises the effect on the individual, family and carers, identifies the key legislation and highlights the crucial role of secondary care nurses.

Communication skills assessment in the final postgraduate years to established practice: a systematic review.

PubMed

Gillis, Amy E; Morris, Marie C; Ridgway, Paul F

2015-01-01

Communication breakdown is a factor in the majority of all instances of medical error. Despite the importance, a relative paucity of time is invested in communication skills in postgraduate curricula. Our objective is to systematically review the literature to identify the current tools used to assess communication skills in postgraduate trainees in the latter 2 years of training and in established practice. Two reviewers independently reviewed the literature identifying communication skill assessment tools, for postgraduate trainees in the latter 2 years of training and in established practice following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework, and inclusion/exclusion criteria from January 1990 to 15 August 2014. PubMed/CINAHL/ERIC/EMBASE/PsycInfo/Psyc Articles/Cochrane. 222 articles were identified; after review, 34 articles fulfilled criteria for complete evaluation; the majority (26) had a high level of evidence scoring 3 or greater on the Best Evidence Medical Education guide. 22 articles used objective structured clinical examination/standardised patient (SP)-based formats in an assessment or training capacity. Evaluation tools included author-developed questionnaires and validated tools. Nineteen articles demonstrated an educational initiative. The reviewed literature is heterogeneous for objectives and measurement techniques for communication. Observed interactions, with patients or SPs, is the current favoured method of evaluation using author-developed questionnaires. The role of self-evaluation of skill level is questioned. The need for a validated assessment tool for communication skills is highlighted. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://group.bmj.com/group/rights-licensing/permissions.

Laparoscopic surgery: A qualified systematic review

PubMed Central

Buia, Alexander; Stockhausen, Florian; Hanisch, Ernst

2015-01-01

AIM: To review current applications of the laparoscopic surgery while highlighting the standard procedures across different fields. METHODS: A comprehensive search was undertaken using the PubMed Advanced Search Builder. A total of 321 articles were found in this search. The following criteria had to be met for the publication to be selected: Review article, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses discussing the subject of laparoscopic surgery. In addition, publications were hand-searched in the Cochrane database and the high-impact journals. A total of 82 of the findings were included according to matching the inclusion criteria. Overall, 403 full-text articles were reviewed. Of these, 218 were excluded due to not matching the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: A total of 185 relevant articles were identified matching the search criteria for an overview of the current literature on the laparoscopic surgery. Articles covered the period from the first laparoscopic application through its tremendous advancement over the last several years. Overall, the biggest advantage of the procedure has been minimizing trauma to the abdominal wall compared with open surgery. In the case of cholecystectomy, fundoplication, and adrenalectomy, the procedure has become the gold standard without being proven as a superior technique over the open surgery in randomized controlled trials. Faster recovery, reduced hospital stay, and a quicker return to normal activities are the most evident advantages of the laparoscopic surgery. Positive outcomes, efficiency, a lower rate of wound infections, and reduction in the perioperative morbidity of minimally invasive procedures have been shown in most indications. CONCLUSION: Improvements in surgical training and developments in instruments, imaging, and surgical techniques have greatly increased safety and feasibility of the laparoscopic surgical procedures. PMID:26713285

APPA 2011 Conference Highlights

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Facilities Manager, 2011

2011-01-01

This article presents highlights of APPA conference that was held on July 16-18, 2011. The highlights feature photos of 2011-2012 board of directors, outgoing senior regional representatives to the board, meritorious service award, APPA fellow, president's recognition and gavel exchange, and diamond business partner award.

Towards public health decision support: a systematic review of bidirectional communication approaches

PubMed Central

Dixon, Brian E; Gamache, Roland E; Grannis, Shaun J

2013-01-01

Objective To summarize the literature describing computer-based interventions aimed at improving bidirectional communication between clinical and public health. Materials and Methods A systematic review of English articles using MEDLINE and Google Scholar. Search terms included public health, epidemiology, electronic health records, decision support, expert systems, and decision-making. Only articles that described the communication of information regarding emerging health threats from public health agencies to clinicians or provider organizations were included. Each article was independently reviewed by two authors. Results Ten peer-reviewed articles highlight a nascent but promising area of research and practice related to alerting clinicians about emerging threats. Current literature suggests that additional research and development in bidirectional communication infrastructure should focus on defining a coherent architecture, improving interoperability, establishing clear governance, and creating usable systems that will effectively deliver targeted, specific information to clinicians in support of patient and population decision-making. Conclusions Increasingly available clinical information systems make it possible to deliver timely, relevant knowledge to frontline clinicians in support of population health. Future work should focus on developing a flexible, interoperable infrastructure for bidirectional communications capable of integrating public health knowledge into clinical systems and workflows. PMID:23467470

A positive feedback at the cellular level promotes robustness and modulation at the circuit level

PubMed Central

Dethier, Julie; Drion, Guillaume; Franci, Alessio

2015-01-01

This article highlights the role of a positive feedback gating mechanism at the cellular level in the robustness and modulation properties of rhythmic activities at the circuit level. The results are presented in the context of half-center oscillators, which are simple rhythmic circuits composed of two reciprocally connected inhibitory neuronal populations. Specifically, we focus on rhythms that rely on a particular excitability property, the postinhibitory rebound, an intrinsic cellular property that elicits transient membrane depolarization when released from hyperpolarization. Two distinct ionic currents can evoke this transient depolarization: a hyperpolarization-activated cation current and a low-threshold T-type calcium current. The presence of a slow activation is specific to the T-type calcium current and provides a slow positive feedback at the cellular level that is absent in the cation current. We show that this slow positive feedback is required to endow the network rhythm with physiological modulation and robustness properties. This study thereby identifies an essential cellular property to be retained at the network level in modeling network robustness and modulation. PMID:26311181

America's "undiscovered" laboratory for health services research.

PubMed

Gimbel, Ronald W; Pangaro, Louis; Barbour, Galen

2010-08-01

Debate over reforming the nation's healthcare system has stimulated a need for health services research (HSR) models that are nationally applicable. Toward this end, the authors identify the Military Health System (MHS) as America's "undiscovered" laboratory for HSR. Although many may confuse the MHS with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the 2 systems vary dramatically with respect to their beneficiary populations, access to care, and other important attributes. In this article, the authors describe key characteristics of the MHS including its large beneficiary base, its direct care operating environment, its dedicated medical school and graduate education programs, and its fully operational integrated health information system. Although a few health systems (eg, Kaiser Permanente, Partners Healthcare, and Department of Veterans Affairs) possess some characteristics, no other has all of these components in place. This article sets the stage for contemporary HSR studies with broad applicability to current issues in American healthcare that could be performed within the MHS. Inclusion of the MHS environment in HSR studies of health services delivery modalities, adoption of health information technology, access to care, relationship of medical education to effective safe care delivery, health disparities, child health, and behavioral health would provide strong underpinnings for proposed changes in American healthcare delivery. Finally, the article highlights current regulatory barriers to research within the MHS whereas suggesting steps to minimize their impact in conducting HSR.

AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE BOYS: EARLY CHILDHOOD RISK AND RESILIENCE AMIDST CONTEXT AND CULTURE.

PubMed

Sarche, Michelle; Tafoya, Greg; Croy, Calvin D; Hill, Kyle

2017-01-01

American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) adolescent and adult men experience a range of health disparities relative to their non-AIAN counterparts and AIAN women. Given the relatively limited literature on early development in tribal contexts, however, indicators of risk during early childhood specific to AIAN boys are not well-known. The current article reviews sources of strength and challenge within AIAN communities for AIAN children in general, including cultural beliefs and practices that support development, and contextual challenges related to socioeconomic and health disparities and historical trauma affecting the AIAN population as a whole. The research literature on early development is reviewed, highlighting what this literature reveals about early gender differences. The article concludes with calls to action on behalf of AIAN boys that align with each of the five tiers of R. Frieden's (2010) Public Health Pyramid. © 2016 Michigan Association for Infant Mental Health.

Ethical pharmaceutical promotion and communications worldwide: codes and regulations

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

The international pharmaceutical industry has made significant efforts towards ensuring compliant and ethical communication and interaction with physicians and patients. This article presents the current status of the worldwide governance of communication practices by pharmaceutical companies, concentrating on prescription-only medicines. It analyzes legislative, regulatory, and code-based compliance control mechanisms and highlights significant developments, including the 2006 and 2012 revisions of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) Code of Practice. Developments in international controls, largely built upon long-established rules relating to the quality of advertising material, have contributed to clarifying the scope of acceptable company interactions with healthcare professionals. This article aims to provide policy makers, particularly in developing countries, with an overview of the evolution of mechanisms governing the communication practices, such as the distribution of promotional or scientific material and interactions with healthcare stakeholders, relating to prescription-only medicines. PMID:24679064

Ethical pharmaceutical promotion and communications worldwide: codes and regulations.

PubMed

Francer, Jeffrey; Izquierdo, Jose Zamarriego; Music, Tamara; Narsai, Kirti; Nikidis, Chrisoula; Simmonds, Heather; Woods, Paul

2014-03-29

The international pharmaceutical industry has made significant efforts towards ensuring compliant and ethical communication and interaction with physicians and patients. This article presents the current status of the worldwide governance of communication practices by pharmaceutical companies, concentrating on prescription-only medicines. It analyzes legislative, regulatory, and code-based compliance control mechanisms and highlights significant developments, including the 2006 and 2012 revisions of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) Code of Practice.Developments in international controls, largely built upon long-established rules relating to the quality of advertising material, have contributed to clarifying the scope of acceptable company interactions with healthcare professionals. This article aims to provide policy makers, particularly in developing countries, with an overview of the evolution of mechanisms governing the communication practices, such as the distribution of promotional or scientific material and interactions with healthcare stakeholders, relating to prescription-only medicines.

Enhancing women's health: A call for social work research.

PubMed

Bird, Melissa; Wright, Rachel L; Frost, Caren J

2016-10-01

This article presents a critical synthesis of the social work empirical literature on women's health. In light of recent policy changes that directly affect women's health and social work, the authors conducted a literature review of recent publications (2010-2015) regarding social work and women's health nationally. Despite frequent accounts cited in the literature, there has been no comprehensive review of issues involving women's health and social work in the United States. The purpose of this review is to examine the current social work literature addressing women's health at the national (U.S.) level. This research presents a summary description of the status of the social work literature dealing with women's health, specifically 51 articles published between 2010 and 2015. Our search highlights the need for social work research to fill gaps and more fully address the needs of women across the lifespan.

The NIMH Research Domain Criteria Initiative: Background, Issues, and Pragmatics.

PubMed

Kozak, Michael J; Cuthbert, Bruce N

2016-03-01

This article describes the National Institute of Mental Health's Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) initiative. The description includes background, rationale, goals, and the way the initiative has been developed and organized. The central RDoC concepts are summarized and the current matrix of constructs that have been vetted by workshops of extramural scientists is depicted. A number of theoretical and methodological issues that can arise in connection with the nature of RDoC constructs are highlighted: subjectivism and heterophenomenology, desynchrony and theoretical neutrality among units of analysis, theoretical reductionism, endophenotypes, biomarkers, neural circuits, construct "grain size," and analytic challenges. The importance of linking RDoC constructs to psychiatric clinical problems is discussed. Some pragmatics of incorporating RDoC concepts into applications for NIMH research funding are considered, including sampling design. Published 2016. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Mental health and wellbeing: focus on men's health.

PubMed

Patrick, Sarah; Robertson, Steve

2016-11-24

All nurses have a responsibility to ensure that they actively promote both mental and physical health and wellbeing. This article aims to bring together current thinking and evidence about nursing and men's mental health promotion. Key areas of concern outlined are the high rate of suicide in men, the expression of depression in men and the problems of masculinity when related to seeking help for mental health. The article highlights the importance of language and the normalising of distressing feelings when working with men and suggests that nurses need to recognise how men can experience depression differently, actively identify and address suicidal thinking, and provide gender-sensitive interventions. Additionally, nurses working with men need to demonstrate 'male-positive' values and offer future-focused and action-oriented interventions (such as solution-focused, coaching or cognitive behavioural therapy approaches) that contribute to a sense of agency, promote hope and are more engaging for many men.

Portrait of the journal as a young adult.

PubMed

Grandjean, Philippe; Ozonoff, David

2012-05-02

Since its founding a decade ago, Environmental Health has received more than one thousand manuscripts. Last year marked the first time we published over 100 articles. The journal web site currently receives over 60,000 unique visitors every month, and the steady increase suggests that the number will soon exceed 100,000 monthly. Individual articles are usually accessed several thousand times within a few years of publication, the highest number for a single paper being close to 100,000. The access numbers suggest that the journal has a reach that goes much beyond narrow academic circles as represented by numbers of citations in scholarly journals. To further the goal of reaching the wider public health community and linking to environmental health promotion, we ask prospective Environmental Health authors to highlight the findings that are new or different along with the implications for future research and in terms of prevention of environmental hazards.

Transferability of economic evaluations of medical technologies: a new technology for orthopedic surgery.

PubMed

Steuten, Lotte; Vallejo-Torres, Laura; Young, Terry; Buxton, Martin

2008-05-01

Transferring results of economic evaluations across countries or jurisdictions can potentially save scarce evaluation resources while helping to make market access and reimbursement decisions in a timely fashion. This article points out why transferring results of economic evaluations is particularly important in the field of medical technologies. It then provides an overview of factors that are previously identified in the literature as affecting transferability of economic evaluations, as well as methods for transferring results in a scientifically sound way. As the current literature almost exclusively relates to transferability of pharmacoeconomic evaluations, this article highlights those factors and methodologies that are of particular relevance to transferring medical technology assessments. Considering the state-of-the-art literature and a worked, real life, example of transferring an economic evaluation of a product used in orthopedic surgery, we provide recommendations for future work in this important area of medical technology assessment.

Tunable electronic and magnetic properties of two-dimensional materials and their one-dimensional derivatives.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhuhua; Liu, Xiaofei; Yu, Jin; Hang, Yang; Li, Yao; Guo, Yufeng; Xu, Ying; Sun, Xu; Zhou, Jianxin; Guo, Wanlin

2016-01-01

Low-dimensional materials exhibit many exceptional properties and functionalities which can be efficiently tuned by externally applied force or fields. Here we review the current status of research on tuning the electronic and magnetic properties of low-dimensional carbon, boron nitride, metal-dichalcogenides, phosphorene nanomaterials by applied engineering strain, external electric field and interaction with substrates, etc, with particular focus on the progress of computational methods and studies. We highlight the similarities and differences of the property modulation among one- and two-dimensional nanomaterials. Recent breakthroughs in experimental demonstration of the tunable functionalities in typical nanostructures are also presented. Finally, prospective and challenges for applying the tunable properties into functional devices are discussed. WIREs Comput Mol Sci 2016, 6:324-350. doi: 10.1002/wcms.1251 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article.

Global Health: Preparation for Working in Resource-Limited Settings.

PubMed

St Clair, Nicole E; Pitt, Michael B; Bakeera-Kitaka, Sabrina; McCall, Natalie; Lukolyo, Heather; Arnold, Linda D; Audcent, Tobey; Batra, Maneesh; Chan, Kevin; Jacquet, Gabrielle A; Schutze, Gordon E; Butteris, Sabrina

2017-11-01

Trainees and clinicians from high-income countries are increasingly engaging in global health (GH) efforts, particularly in resource-limited settings. Concomitantly, there is a growing demand for these individuals to be better prepared for the common challenges and controversies inherent in GH work. This is a state-of-the-art review article in which we outline what is known about the current scope of trainee and clinician involvement in GH experiences, highlight specific considerations and issues pertinent to GH engagement, and summarize preparation recommendations that have emerged from the literature. The article is focused primarily on short-term GH experiences, although much of the content is also pertinent to long-term work. Suggestions are made for the health care community to develop and implement widely endorsed preparation standards for trainees, clinicians, and organizations engaging in GH experiences and partnerships. Copyright © 2017 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Determinant factors of gender identity: a commentary.

PubMed

Liao, Lih-Mei; Audi, Laura; Magritte, Ellie; Meyer-Bahlburg, Heino F L; Quigley, Charmian A

2012-12-01

Paediatric specialists involved in the care of children with disorders of sex development may be expected to provide straightforward answers to questions concerning the "true sex" of a child, reflecting common perceptions of sex/gender as an immutable binary biological reality. This article highlights how much more broad and complex the topic of gender identity and its development is. Many theories have been put forward to advance knowledge of gender identity. Against the breadth and depth of this vast topic, the current overview is inevitably incomplete. It begins by arguing for a more consistent use of 'sex' and 'gender'. It considers in turn three influential theoretical frameworks that lend themselves to empirical research. These are: 1) the role of the brain; 2) the role of socialisation; and 3) multi-dimensional gender development. The article ends by suggesting potentially fruitful questions and areas for future research. Copyright © 2012 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Integrating positive psychology into health-related quality of life research.

PubMed

Park, Crystal L

2015-07-01

Positive psychology is an increasingly influential force in theory and research within psychology and many related fields, including behavioral medicine, sociology, and public health. This article aims to review the ways in which positive psychology and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) research currently interface and to suggest fruitful future directions. This article reviews the basic elements of positive psychology and provides an overview of conceptual and empirical links between positive psychology and HRQOL. The role of one central aspect of positive psychology (meaning) within HRQOL is highlighted, and unresolved issues (e.g., lack of definitional clarity) are discussed. Some research on HRQOL has taken a positive psychology perspective, demonstrating the usefulness of taking a positive psychology approach. However, many areas await integration. Once conceptual and methodological issues are resolved, positive psychology may profitably inform many aspects of HRQOL research and, perhaps, clinical interventions to promote HRQOL as well.

Biobanking and Privacy Law in Brazil.

PubMed

Dallari, Sueli Gandolfi; Castellaro, Felipe Angel Bocchi; Guerriero, Iara Coelho Zito

2015-01-01

This article analyzes the current regulatory framework for biobanking, genomic research, and protection of privacy in Brazil. It is divided in four parts. The first describes the biobanking context in Brazil and its evolution in recent years. In the second, the entire regulatory framework on biobanking and genomic research is analyzed. The third part focuses on the critical evaluation of this regulatory framework, specifically on some major ethical dilemmas in biobanking. The fourth part describes the characteristics of the Brazilian biobanking and human research governance system, known as the CEP/CONEP system. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the information in the article and its contribution to the study of the biobanking ethical challenges, especially the protection of privacy. It is highlighted that biobanking regulatory harmonization among countries is necessary, since it increases scientific possibilities that can come from broader cooperation among biobanks and several research centers on the national and international levels. © 2015 American Society of Law, Medicine & Ethics, Inc.

Use of psychological decompression in military operational environments.

PubMed

Hughes, Jamie G H Hacker; Earnshaw, N Mark; Greenberg, Neil; Eldridge, Rod; Fear, Nicola T; French, Claire; Deahl, Martin P; Wessely, Simon

2008-06-01

This article reviews the use of psychological decompression as applied to troops returning from active service in operational theaters. Definitions of the term are considered and a brief history is given. Current policies and practices are described and the question of mandatory decompression is considered. Finally, the evidence base for the efficacy of decompression is examined and some conclusions are drawn. This article highlights variations in the definition and practice of decompression and its use. Although there is, as yet, no evidence that decompression works, there is also no evidence to the contrary. Given the lack of knowledge as to the balance of risks and benefits of decompression and the absence of any definitive evidence that decompression is associated with improved mental health outcomes or that lack of decompression is associated with the reverse, it is argued that the use of decompression should remain a matter for discretion.

Targeted nanosystems: Advances in targeted dendrimers for cancer therapy.

PubMed

Yang, Hu

2016-02-01

Dendrimers possess discrete highly compact nanostructures constituted of successive branched layers. Soon after the inception of dendrimers, recognition of their tunable structures and biologically favorable properties provoked a great enthusiasm in delving deeply into the utility of dendrimers for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. One of the most important nanotechnology applications is the development of nanomedicines for targeted cancer therapies. Tremendous success in targeted therapies has been achieved with the use of dendrimer-based nanomedicines. This article provides a concise review on latest advances in the utility of dendrimers in immunotherapies and hormone therapies. Much basic and clinical research has been done since the invention of dendrimers, which are highly branched nano-sized molecules with the ability to act as carriers in nanomedicine. In this concise review article, the authors highlighted the current use of dendrimers in immunotherapies and hormone therapies in the fight against cancers. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Elder Abuse: Global Situation, Risk Factors, and Prevention Strategies

PubMed Central

Pillemer, Karl; Burnes, David; Riffin, Catherine; Lachs, Mark S.

2016-01-01

Purpose: Elder mistreatment is now recognized internationally as a pervasive and growing problem, urgently requiring the attention of health care systems, social welfare agencies, policymakers, and the general public. In this article, we provide an overview of global issues in the field of elder abuse, with a focus on prevention. Design and Methods: This article provides a scoping review of key issues in the field from an international perspective. Results: By drawing primarily on population-based studies, this scoping review provided a more valid and reliable synthesis of current knowledge about prevalence and risk factors than has been available. Despite the lack of scientifically rigorous intervention research on elder abuse, the review also identified 5 promising strategies for prevention. Implications: The findings highlight a growing consensus across studies regarding the extent and causes of elder mistreatment, as well as the urgent need for efforts to make elder mistreatment prevention programs more effective and evidence based. PMID:26994260

Sucrose esters as natural surfactants in drug delivery systems--a mini-review.

PubMed

Szűts, Angéla; Szabó-Révész, Piroska

2012-08-20

Sucrose esters (SEs) are widely used in the food and cosmetic industries and there has recently been great interest in their applicability in different pharmaceutical fields. They are natural and biodegradable excipients with well-known emulsifying and solubilizing behavior. Currently the most common pharmaceutical applications of SEs are for the enhancement of drug dissolution and drug absorption/permeation, and in controlled-release systems. Although the number of articles on SEs is continuously increasing, they have not yet been widely used in the pharmaceutical industry. The aim of this review is to discuss and summarize some of the findings and applications of SEs in different areas of drug delivery. The article highlights the main properties of SEs and focuses on their use in pharmaceutical technology and on their regulatory and toxicological status. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

What can wave energy learn from offshore oil and gas?

PubMed

Jefferys, E R

2012-01-28

This title may appear rather presumptuous in the light of the progress made by the leading wave energy devices. However, there may still be some useful lessons to be learnt from current 'offshore' practice, and there are certainly some awful warnings from the past. Wave energy devices and the marine structures used in oil and gas exploration as well as production share a common environment and both are subject to wave, wind and current loads, which may be evaluated with well-validated, albeit imperfect, tools. Both types of structure can be designed, analysed and fabricated using similar tools and technologies. They fulfil very different missions and are subject to different economic and performance requirements; hence 'offshore' design tools must be used appropriately in wave energy project and system design, and 'offshore' cost data should be adapted for 'wave' applications. This article reviews the similarities and differences between the fields and highlights the differing economic environments; offshore structures are typically a small to moderate component of field development cost, while wave power devices will dominate overall system cost. The typical 'offshore' design process is summarized and issues such as reliability-based design and design of not normally manned structures are addressed. Lessons learned from poor design in the past are discussed to highlight areas where care is needed, and wave energy-specific design areas are reviewed. Opportunities for innovation and optimization in wave energy project and device design are discussed; wave energy projects must ultimately compete on a level playing field with other routes to low CO₂ energy and/or energy efficiency. This article is a personal viewpoint and not an expression of a ConocoPhillips position.

Topic models: A novel method for modeling couple and family text data

PubMed Central

Atkins, David C.; Rubin, Tim N.; Steyvers, Mark; Doeden, Michelle A.; Baucom, Brian R.; Christensen, Andrew

2012-01-01

Couple and family researchers often collect open-ended linguistic data – either through free response questionnaire items or transcripts of interviews or therapy sessions. Because participant's responses are not forced into a set number of categories, text-based data can be very rich and revealing of psychological processes. At the same time it is highly unstructured and challenging to analyze. Within family psychology analyzing text data typically means applying a coding system, which can quantify text data but also has several limitations, including the time needed for coding, difficulties with inter-rater reliability, and defining a priori what should be coded. The current article presents an alternative method for analyzing text data called topic models (Steyvers & Griffiths, 2006), which has not yet been applied within couple and family psychology. Topic models have similarities with factor analysis and cluster analysis in that topic models identify underlying clusters of words with semantic similarities (i.e., the “topics”). In the present article, a non-technical introduction to topic models is provided, highlighting how these models can be used for text exploration and indexing (e.g., quickly locating text passages that share semantic meaning) and how output from topic models can be used to predict behavioral codes or other types of outcomes. Throughout the article a collection of transcripts from a large couple therapy trial (Christensen et al., 2004) is used as example data to highlight potential applications. Practical resources for learning more about topic models and how to apply them are discussed. PMID:22888778

Topic models: a novel method for modeling couple and family text data.

PubMed

Atkins, David C; Rubin, Timothy N; Steyvers, Mark; Doeden, Michelle A; Baucom, Brian R; Christensen, Andrew

2012-10-01

Couple and family researchers often collect open-ended linguistic data-either through free-response questionnaire items, or transcripts of interviews or therapy sessions. Because participants' responses are not forced into a set number of categories, text-based data can be very rich and revealing of psychological processes. At the same time, it is highly unstructured and challenging to analyze. Within family psychology, analyzing text data typically means applying a coding system, which can quantify text data but also has several limitations, including the time needed for coding, difficulties with interrater reliability, and defining a priori what should be coded. The current article presents an alternative method for analyzing text data called topic models (Steyvers & Griffiths, 2006), which has not yet been applied within couple and family psychology. Topic models have similarities to factor analysis and cluster analysis in that they identify underlying clusters of words with semantic similarities (i.e., the "topics"). In the present article, a nontechnical introduction to topic models is provided, highlighting how these models can be used for text exploration and indexing (e.g., quickly locating text passages that share semantic meaning) and how output from topic models can be used to predict behavioral codes or other types of outcomes. Throughout the article, a collection of transcripts from a large couple-therapy trial (Christensen et al., 2004) is used as example data to highlight potential applications. Practical resources for learning more about topic models and how to apply them are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved).

DISCOVER-AQ

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2017-01-31

... Relevant Documents:  DISCOVER-AQ - Airborne Science Data for Atmospheric Composition DISCOVER-AQ - NASA Earth ... DISCOVER-AQ - Mission Highlight Featured Articles : Articles featuring DISCOVER-AQ data products SCAR-B ...

Platinum Publications, June 30–July 26, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, April 28–May 31, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, June 1–June 29, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, July 26–August 30, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, March 31–April 27, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, March 1–March 30, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, December 1–December 29, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, January 26–February 28, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Political psychology.

PubMed

Stone, Susanna; Johnson, Kate M; Beall, Erica; Meindl, Peter; Smith, Benjamin; Graham, Jesse

2014-07-01

Political psychology is a dynamic field of research that offers a unique blend of approaches and methods in the social and cognitive sciences. Political psychologists explore the interactions between macrolevel political structures and microlevel factors such as decision-making processes, motivations, and perceptions. In this article, we provide a broad overview of the field, beginning with a brief history of political psychology research and a summary of the primary methodological approaches in the field. We then give a more detailed account of research on ideology and social justice, two topics experiencing a resurgence of interest in current political psychology. Finally, we cover research on political persuasion and voting behavior. By summarizing these major areas of political psychology research, we hope to highlight the wide variety of theoretical and methodological approaches of cognitive scientists working at the intersection of psychology and political science. WIREs Cogn Sci 2014, 5:373-385. doi: 10.1002/wcs.1293 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website. The authors have declared no conflicts of interest for this article. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Clinical leadership development requires system-wide interventions, not just courses.

PubMed

Swanwick, Tim; McKimm, Judy

2012-04-01

This is the third article in a series on clinical leadership and medical education. In the first two articles in this series we looked at the nature of leadership and examined professional outcomes, standards and competency frameworks from around the world that describe what it is we are trying to instil in medical students and doctors in postgraduate training. In this article we explore current trends in leadership development and describe broad approaches to clinical leadership development, highlighting those strategies that are likely to be more (or less) successful. Narrative review and discussion. Key trends and principles for best practice in leadership development are identified. Recommendations for the design of leadership development programmes are made alongside suggestions for system-wide interventions. Leadership development should be both drawn from and embedded in work-based activities, and as far as possible linked to the development of the organisation as a whole. Intervening at the level of the individual may not be enough. System-wide interventions are required that actively engage students and trainees in the practices of management and leadership, and involve them early. © Blackwell Publishing Ltd 2012.

Breaking bad news revisited: the push for negotiated disclosure and changing practice implications.

PubMed

Arber, Anne; Gallagher, Ann

2003-04-01

This article revisits the ethical, legal, professional and emotional issues involved with disclosing bad news. The authors examine the push for disclosure that has come from a number of quarters in the UK, including ethical and legal challenges, in particular the Bristol Royal Inquiry Report, professional codes of conduct, health policy and the expectations of the public. The contribution of nurses to breaking bad news is not widely discussed in the literature. With the development of new nursing roles and evidence-based practice it is timely to consider the role of nurses in this process. The article highlights some limitations with current guidelines for breaking bad news, in particular, that these guidelines tend to be constructed from a professional standpoint and lack patient-centred evidence. The issue of emotional labour and how it relates to giving bad news is discussed with respect to professional staff and patients. The article concludes by raising some practice implications, including: the importance of context and continuity; the significance of information and support; the desirable qualities of the professional; and issues to consider in determining patient preferences.

Label-free SERS in biological and biomedical applications: Recent progress, current challenges and opportunities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Xiao-Shan; Jahn, Izabella Jolan; Weber, Karina; Cialla-May, Dana; Popp, Jürgen

2018-05-01

To achieve an insightful look within biomolecular processes on the cellular level, the development of diseases as well as the reliable detection of metabolites and pathogens, a modern analytical tool is needed that is highly sensitive, molecular-specific and exhibits fast detection. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is known to meet these requirements and, within this review article, the recent progress of label-free SERS in biological and biomedical applications is summarized and discussed. This includes the detection of biomolecules such as metabolites, nucleic acids and proteins. Further, the characterization and identification of microorganisms has been achieved by label-free SERS-based approaches. Eukaryotic cells can be characterized by SERS in order to gain information about the outer cell wall or to detect intracellular molecules and metabolites. The potential of SERS for medically relevant detection schemes is emphasized by the label-free detection of tissue, the investigation of body fluids as well as applications for therapeutic and illicit drug monitoring. The review article is concluded with an evaluation of the recent progress and current challenges in order to highlight the direction of label-free SERS in the future.

Molecular targets for flavivirus drug discovery

PubMed Central

Sampath, Aruna; Padmanabhan, R.

2009-01-01

Flaviviruses are a major cause of infectious disease in humans. Dengue virus causes an estimated 50 million cases of febrile illness each year, including an increasing number of cases of hemorrhagic fever. West Nile virus, which recently spread from the Mediterranean basin to the Western Hemisphere, now causes thousands of sporadic cases of encephalitis annually. Despite the existence of licensed vaccines, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis and tick-borne encephalitis also claim many thousands of victims each year across their vast endemic areas. Antiviral therapy could potentially reduce morbidity and mortality from flavivirus infections, but no effective drugs are currently available. This article introduces a collection of papers in Antiviral Research on molecular targets for flavivirus antiviral drug design and murine models of dengue virus disease that aims to encourage drug development efforts. After reviewing the flavivirus replication cycle, we discuss the envelope glycoprotein, NS3 protease, NS3 helicase, NS5 methyltransferase and NS5 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase as potential drug targets, with special attention being given to the viral protease. The other viral proteins are the subject of individual articles in the journal. Together, these papers highlight current status of drug discovery efforts for flavivirus diseases and suggest promising areas for further research. PMID:18796313

Total Force Fitness in units part 1: military demand-resource model.

PubMed

Bates, Mark J; Fallesen, Jon J; Huey, Wesley S; Packard, Gary A; Ryan, Diane M; Burke, C Shawn; Smith, David G; Watola, Daniel J; Pinder, Evette D; Yosick, Todd M; Estrada, Armando X; Crepeau, Loring; Bowles, Stephen V

2013-11-01

The military unit is a critical center of gravity in the military's efforts to enhance resilience and the health of the force. The purpose of this article is to augment the military's Total Force Fitness (TFF) guidance with a framework of TFF in units. The framework is based on a Military Demand-Resource model that highlights the dynamic interactions across demands, resources, and outcomes. A joint team of subject-matter experts identified key variables representing unit fitness demands, resources, and outcomes. The resulting framework informs and supports leaders, support agencies, and enterprise efforts to strengthen TFF in units by (1) identifying TFF unit variables aligned with current evidence and operational practices, (2) standardizing communication about TFF in units across the Department of Defense enterprise in a variety of military organizational contexts, (3) improving current resources including evidence-based actions for leaders, (4) identifying and addressing of gaps, and (5) directing future research for enhancing TFF in units. These goals are intended to inform and enhance Service efforts to develop Service-specific TFF models, as well as provide the conceptual foundation for a follow-on article about TFF metrics for units. Reprint & Copyright © 2013 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

["Handle with care": about the potential unintended consequences of oracular artificial intelligence systems in medicine.

PubMed

Cabitza, Federico; Alderighi, Camilla; Rasoini, Raffaele; Gensini, Gian Franco

2017-10-01

Decisional support systems based on machine learning (ML) in medicine are gaining a growing interest as some recent articles have highlighted the high diagnostic accuracy exhibited by these systems in specific medical contexts. However, it is implausible that any potential advantage can be obtained without some potential drawbacks. In light of the current gaps in medical research about the side effects of the application of these new AI systems in medical practice, in this article we summarize the main unexpected consequences that may result from the widespread application of "oracular" systems, that is highly accurate systems that cannot give reasonable explanations of their advice as those endowed with predictive models developed with ML techniques usually are. These consequences range from the intrinsic uncertainty in the data that are used to train and feed these systems, to the inadequate explainability of their output; through the risk of overreliance, deskilling and context desensitization of their end-users. Although some of these issues may be currently hard to evaluate due to the still scarce adoption of these decisional systems in medical practice, we advocate the study of these potential consequences also for a more informed policy of approval beyond hype and disenchantment.

Prestructural cartilage assessment using MRI.

PubMed

Link, Thomas M; Neumann, Jan; Li, Xiaojuan

2017-04-01

Cartilage loss is irreversible, and to date, no effective pharmacotherapies are available to protect or regenerate cartilage. Quantitative prestructural/compositional MR imaging techniques have been developed to characterize the cartilage matrix quality at a stage where abnormal findings are early and potentially reversible, allowing intervention to halt disease progression. The goal of this article is to critically review currently available technologies, present the basic concept behind these techniques, but also to investigate their suitability as imaging biomarkers including their validity, reproducibility, risk prediction and monitoring of therapy. Moreover, we highlighted important clinical applications. This review article focuses on the currently most relevant and clinically applicable technologies, such as T2 mapping, T2*, T1ρ, delayed gadolinium enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC), sodium imaging and glycosaminoglycan chemical exchange saturation transfer (gagCEST). To date, most information is available for T2 and T1ρ mapping. dGEMRIC has also been used in multiple clinical studies, although it requires Gd contrast administration. Sodium imaging and gagCEST are promising technologies but are dependent on high field strength and sophisticated software and hardware. 5 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2017;45:949-965. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.

Addressing education of speech-language pathologists in the World Report on Disability: development of a speech-language pathology program in Malaysia.

PubMed

Ahmad, Kartini; Ibrahim, Hasherah; Othman, Basyariatul Fathi; Vong, Etain

2013-02-01

The current paper is a response to the Wiley, McAllister, Davidson, and Marshall lead article regarding the application of the World Report on Disability (WRD) to people with communication disorders. The current paper directly addresses recommendation 5 (improvement of human resource capacity) and indirectly addresses recommendations 7, 8, and 9 (related to improving local knowledge and data on communicative disabilities) indirectly. The paper describes Malaysia's initiatives in the early 1990s, in developing its local professional capacity to provide services for people with communication disorders (PWCD). It charts the history of development of a local undergraduate entry-level degree program for speech-language pathology (SLP) from the point of conceptualization to full execution. The article provides glimpses to the processes and challenges faced by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia as the pioneer university in the South East Asia region to undertake the training and education of the SLP profession and highlights relevant issues faced by newly introduced professions in a country where resources and practice traditions were previously unavailable. It underscores the important role played by government institutions and an international professional network in driving forward-looking policies to implement and sustain the program.

FY17 Transportation and Hydrogen Systems Center Journal Publication Highlights

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

NREL's Transportation and Hydrogen Systems Center published 39 journal articles in fiscal year 2017 highlighting recent research in advanced vehicle technology, alternative fuels, and hydrogen systems.

Current and emerging therapies for Addison's disease.

PubMed

Napier, Catherine; Pearce, Simon H S

2014-06-01

The purpose of this article is to review the current therapy of Addison's disease and to highlight recent developments in this field. Conventional steroid replacement for Addison's disease consists of twice or three-times daily oral hydrocortisone and once-daily fludrocortisone; however, new treatment modalities such as modified-released hydrocortisone and continuous subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusion have recently been developed. These offer the potential for closer simulation of the physiological serum cortisol rhythm. Two studies have also looked at modifying the natural history of adrenal failure using adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation and immunomodulatory therapies, leading to the concept of residual adrenal function in some Addison's disease patients. Following more than 60 years with no significant innovation in the management of Addison's disease, these new approaches hold promise for improved patient health and better quality of life in the future.

Dry Eye Disease and Microbial Keratitis: Is There a Connection?

PubMed Central

Narayanan, Srihari; Redfern, Rachel L.; Miller, William L.; Nichols, Kelly K.; McDermott, Alison M.

2013-01-01

Dry eye is a common ocular surface disease of multifactorial etiology characterized by elevated tear osmolality and inflammation leading to a disrupted ocular surface. The latter is a risk factor for ocular surface infection, yet overt infection is not commonly seen clinically in the typical dry eye patient. This suggests that important innate mechanisms operate to protect the dry eye from invading pathogens. This article reviews the current literature on epidemiology of ocular surface infection in dry eye patients and laboratory-based studies on innate immune mechanisms operating at the ocular surface and their alterations in human dry eye and animal models. The review highlights current understanding of innate immunity in dry eye and identifies gaps in our knowledge to help direct future studies to further unravel the complexities of dry eye disease and its sequelae. PMID:23583043

Adipose-Derived Stem Cells in Functional Bone Tissue Engineering: Lessons from Bone Mechanobiology

PubMed Central

Bodle, Josephine C.; Hanson, Ariel D.

2011-01-01

This review aims to highlight the current and significant work in the use of adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) in functional bone tissue engineering framed through the bone mechanobiology perspective. Over a century of work on the principles of bone mechanosensitivity is now being applied to our understanding of bone development. We are just beginning to harness that potential using stem cells in bone tissue engineering. ASC are the primary focus of this review due to their abundance and relative ease of accessibility for autologous procedures. This article outlines the current knowledge base in bone mechanobiology to investigate how the knowledge from this area has been applied to the various stem cell-based approaches to engineering bone tissue constructs. Specific emphasis is placed on the use of human ASC for this application. PMID:21338267

Highlighting inconsistencies regarding metal biosorption.

PubMed

Robalds, Artis; Naja, Ghinwa Melodie; Klavins, Maris

2016-03-05

Thousands of articles have been devoted to examine different types of biosorbents and their use in cleaning polluted waters. An important objective of some studies has been the identification of the biosorption mechanisms. This type of investigation is not always performed, as it can only be done if scientists are aware of all mechanisms that, at least theoretically, control the removal of the target substances. Mistakes are often made, even in highly cited review articles, where biosorption mechanisms are named and/or grouped. The aim of this article is to highlight errors and inaccuracies as well as to discuss different classification systems of the biosorption mechanisms. This article serves as a guide, as well as a platform for discussion among researchers involved in the investigation of biosorbents, in an effort to avoid reproducing errors in subsequent articles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Highlights of the 12th International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT.

PubMed

Kitsiou, Anastasia; Dorbala, Sharmila; Scholte, Arthur J H A

2015-09-01

The 12th International Conference on Nuclear Cardiology and Cardiac CT was held from 3 to 5 May 2015 in Madrid, Spain. In this article, the three Congress Program Committee Chairs summarize selected highlights of the presented abstracts. Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2015. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com. This article is being published concurrently in the Journal of Nuclear Cardiology (10.1007/s12350-015-0260-y) and European Heart Journal – Cardiovascular Imaging (10.1093/ehjci/jev179). The articles are identical except for minor stylistic and spelling differences in keeping with each journal’s style. Either citation can be used when citing this article.

Evidence-Based Dentistry in Everyday Practice.

PubMed

Gudray, Kiran; Walmsley, Anthony Damien

2016-12-01

This article informs readers of a method of implementing evidence-based dentistry in practice. Following these steps, practitioners should be able to use this skill in an efficient manner. The importance of evidence-based dentistry and its relevance to situations encountered in everyday practice is also highlighted. Clinical relevance: This article highlights a series of steps to be followed by practitioners to ensure that treatment provided is supported by the most recent, good quality evidence.

International Space Station Solar Array Wing On-Orbit Electrical Performance Degradation Measured

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gustafson, Eric D.; Kerslake, Thomas W.

2004-01-01

The port-side photovoltaic power module (P6) was activated on the International Space Station in December 2000. P6 provides electrical power to channels 2B and 4B to operate ISS power loads. A P6 is shown in the preceding photograph. This article highlights the work done at the NASA Glenn Research Center to calculate the on-orbit degradation of the P6 solar array wings (SAWs) using on-orbit data from December 2000 to February 2003. During early ISS operations, the 82 strings of photovoltaic cells that make up a SAW can provide much more power than is necessary to meet the demand. To deal with excess power, a sequential shunt unit successively shunts the current from the strings. This shunt current was the parameter chosen for the SAW performance degradation study for the following reasons: (1) it is based on a direct shunt current measurement in the sequential shunt unit, (2) the shunt current has a low temperature dependence that reduces the data correction error from using a computationally derived array temperature, and (3) the SSU shunt current is essentially the same as the SAW short-circuit current on a per-string basis.

Examining Television.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gaffney, Maureen, Ed.

1980-01-01

Designed for media specialists and educators, this issue contains four articles focusing on children and television. The lead article outlines major Australian views on television, analyzing how these concepts determine that country's use of the medium. The second article reviews international developments in children's television highlighted at…

Role of Pharmacy Residency Training in Career Planning: A Student's Perspective.

PubMed

McElhaney, Ashley; Weber, Robert J

2014-12-01

Pharmacy students typically become more focused on career planning and assessment in the final year of their PharmD training. Weighing career options in the advanced pharmacy practice experience year can be both exciting and stressful. The goal of this article is to provide a primer on how pharmacy students can assess how a residency can fit into career planning. This article will describe the various career paths available to graduating students, highlight ways in which a residency can complement career choices, review the current state of the job market for pharmacists, discuss the current and future plans for residency programs, and present thoughts from some current and former residents on why they chose to complete a residency. Most career paths require some additional training, and a residency provides appropriate experience very quickly compared to on-the-job training. Alternative plans to residency training must also be considered, as there are not enough residency positions for candidates. Directors of pharmacy must consider several factors when giving career advice on pharmacy residency training to pharmacy students; they should provide the students with an honest assessment of their work skills and their abilities to successfully complete a residency. This assessment will help the students to set a plan for improvement and give them a better chance at being matched to a pharmacy residency.

Role of Pharmacy Residency Training in Career Planning: A Student’s Perspective

PubMed Central

McElhaney, Ashley; Weber, Robert J.

2014-01-01

Pharmacy students typically become more focused on career planning and assessment in the final year of their PharmD training. Weighing career options in the advanced pharmacy practice experience year can be both exciting and stressful. The goal of this article is to provide a primer on how pharmacy students can assess how a residency can fit into career planning. This article will describe the various career paths available to graduating students, highlight ways in which a residency can complement career choices, review the current state of the job market for pharmacists, discuss the current and future plans for residency programs, and present thoughts from some current and former residents on why they chose to complete a residency. Most career paths require some additional training, and a residency provides appropriate experience very quickly compared to on-the-job training. Alternative plans to residency training must also be considered, as there are not enough residency positions for candidates. Directors of pharmacy must consider several factors when giving career advice on pharmacy residency training to pharmacy students; they should provide the students with an honest assessment of their work skills and their abilities to successfully complete a residency. This assessment will help the students to set a plan for improvement and give them a better chance at being matched to a pharmacy residency. PMID:25673897

Dilemmas in Lung Cancer Staging.

PubMed

Vlahos, Ioannis

2018-05-01

The advent of the 8th edition of the lung cancer staging system reflects a further meticulous evidence-based advance in the stratification of the survival of patients with lung cancer. Although addressing many limitations of earlier staging systems, several limitations in staging remain. This article reviews from a radiological perspective the limitations of the current staging system, highlighting the process of TNM restructuring, the residual issues with regards to the assignment of T, N, M descriptors, and their associated stage groupings and how these dilemmas impact guidance of multidisciplinary teams taking care of patients with lung cancer. Crown Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Beyond Homophily: A Decade of Advances in Understanding Peer Influence Processes.

PubMed

Brechwald, Whitney A; Prinstein, Mitchell J

2011-03-01

This article reviews empirical and theoretical contributions to a multidisciplinary understanding of peer influence processes in adolescence over the past decade. Five themes of peer influence research from this decade were identified, including a broadening of the range of behaviors for which peer influence occurs, distinguishing the sources of influence, probing the conditions under which influence is amplified/attenuated (moderators), testing theoretically based models of peer influence processes (mechanisms), and preliminary exploration of behavioral neuroscience perspectives on peer influence. This review highlights advances in each of these areas, underscores gaps in current knowledge of peer influence processes, and outlines important challenges for future research.

Current Status and Future Prospects for Aptamer-Based Mycotoxin Detection.

PubMed

Ruscito, Annamaria; Smith, McKenzie; Goudreau, Daniel N; DeRosa, Maria C

2016-07-01

Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides with the ability to bind tightly and selectively to a target analyte. High-affinity and specific aptamers for a variety of mycotoxins have been reported over the past decade. Increasingly, these molecular recognition elements are finding applications in biosensors and assays for the detection of mycotoxins in a variety of complex matrixes. This review article highlights the mycotoxin aptamers that are available for mycotoxin detection and the array of biosensing platforms into which they have been incorporated. Key advantages that aptamers have over analogous technology, and areas in which these advantages may be applied for the benefit of practical mycotoxin detection, are also discussed.

High-rise construction as a method for architectural development of megapolises

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kankhva, Vadim

2018-03-01

The article analyzes the current state of urban development in Moscow, there are revealed the insights into pattern of large investment projects. The regulatory framework as well as the state and the forecast of housing funds are scrutinized. A number of problems, that are related to the implementation of high-rise construction projects at all stages of the life cycles, are highlighted by the example of unique facilities, which are under construction or have already been built. Substantiation of high-rise construction by the transport hubs in megapolises is given. There are also considered main advantages of Moscow renovation project and criticism against it.

Epilepsy update, part 2: nursing care and evidence-based treatment.

PubMed

Smith, Gigi; Wagner, Janelle L; Edwards, Jonathan C

2015-06-01

As new research has increased our understanding of epilepsy and the challenges patients with epilepsy face, the role of the nurse as an educator and advocate has grown. This article, the second in a two-part series, addresses the most important aspects of assessing and caring for patients with epilepsy-highlighting the seizure first-aid instructions that all family members of a patient with epilepsy should have; the teaching points to share with parents of young children with epilepsy; and online epilepsy resources for patients, family members, and health care professionals. The authors also discuss current medical, surgical, neurostimulatory, and dietary approaches to epilepsy treatment.

Introduction to focus issue: intrinsic and designed computation: information processing in dynamical systems--beyond the digital hegemony.

PubMed

Crutchfield, James P; Ditto, William L; Sinha, Sudeshna

2010-09-01

How dynamical systems store and process information is a fundamental question that touches a remarkably wide set of contemporary issues: from the breakdown of Moore's scaling laws--that predicted the inexorable improvement in digital circuitry--to basic philosophical problems of pattern in the natural world. It is a question that also returns one to the earliest days of the foundations of dynamical systems theory, probability theory, mathematical logic, communication theory, and theoretical computer science. We introduce the broad and rather eclectic set of articles in this Focus Issue that highlights a range of current challenges in computing and dynamical systems.

Theories of cognitive distortions in sexual offending: what the current research tells us.

PubMed

O Ciardha, Caoilte; Ward, Tony

2013-01-01

Cognitive distortions in sex offenders are specific or general beliefs/attitudes that violate commonly accepted norms of rationality that have been shown to be associated with the onset and maintenance of sexual offending. In this article, we describe the major theories that have been formulated to explain the role of distorted cognition in initiating and maintaining sexual offending. We evaluate each theory in light of a set of theory appraisal criteria and the available empirical research. Finally, we conclude by drawing together the results of this theory evaluation process and highlight the major implications for treatment and future research.

25th anniversary article: key points for high-mobility organic field-effect transistors.

PubMed

Dong, Huanli; Fu, Xiaolong; Liu, Jie; Wang, Zongrui; Hu, Wenping

2013-11-20

Remarkable progress has been made in developing high performance organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) and the mobility of OFETs has been approaching the values of polycrystalline silicon, meeting the requirements of various electronic applications from electronic papers to integrated circuits. In this review, the key points for development of high mobility OFETs are highlighted from aspects of molecular engineering, process engineering and interface engineering. The importance of other factors, such as impurities and testing conditions is also addressed. Finally, the current challenges in this field for practical applications of OFETs are further discussed. © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Idioms of Distress.

PubMed

Desai, Geetha; Chaturvedi, Santosh K

2017-08-01

The presentations of psychosocial distress and cultural conflicts are often bodily symptoms, especially in traditional societies and village backgrounds. These might not meet the criteria of the current psychiatric diagnostic systems. Sociocultural milieu contributes to the unique presentations of the stress in the form of idioms of distress. The latter are alternative modes of expressing distress and indicate manifestations of distress in relation to personal and cultural meaning. Health professionals often consider these as hysterical, functional or having functional overlays, and abnormal illness behaviors. Management of idioms of distress would need cultural competence and sensitivity. This article highlights the common idioms of distress in India with specific focus on bodily symptoms.

Idioms of Distress

PubMed Central

Desai, Geetha; Chaturvedi, Santosh K.

2017-01-01

The presentations of psychosocial distress and cultural conflicts are often bodily symptoms, especially in traditional societies and village backgrounds. These might not meet the criteria of the current psychiatric diagnostic systems. Sociocultural milieu contributes to the unique presentations of the stress in the form of idioms of distress. The latter are alternative modes of expressing distress and indicate manifestations of distress in relation to personal and cultural meaning. Health professionals often consider these as hysterical, functional or having functional overlays, and abnormal illness behaviors. Management of idioms of distress would need cultural competence and sensitivity. This article highlights the common idioms of distress in India with specific focus on bodily symptoms. PMID:28936079

Lifelong Learning for the Hand Surgeon.

PubMed

Adkinson, Joshua M; Chung, Kevin C

2015-09-01

Hand surgeons are faced with the impossible task of mastering a rapidly expanding pool of knowledge and surgical techniques. Dedication to lifelong learning is, therefore, an essential component of delivering the best, most up-to-date care for patients. Board certification, participation in continuing medical education and maintenance of certification activities, and attendance at national meetings are essential mechanisms by which hand surgeons may foster the acquisition of essential knowledge and clinical skills, This article highlights the history, current status, and emerging needs in continuing medical education for the hand surgeon. Copyright © 2015 American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Growth and maturity: A quantitative systematic review and network analysis in anthropometric history.

PubMed

Galofré-Vilà, Gregori

2018-02-01

This paper reviews the current wealth of anthropometric history since the early efforts of Robert Fogel in the 1970s. The survey is based on a quantitative systematic review of the literature and counts a total of 447 peer-reviewed articles being published in the main leading journals in economic history, economics and biology. Data are analysed using network analysis by journal and author and the main contributions of anthropometric history are highlighted, pointing to future areas of inquiry. The contributions of books and book chapters are also quantified and analysed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

MCBS Highlights: Ownership and Average Premiums for Medicare Supplementary Insurance Policies

PubMed Central

Chulis, George S.; Eppig, Franklin J.; Poisal, John A.

1995-01-01

This article describes private supplementary health insurance holdings and average premiums paid by Medicare enrollees. Data were collected as part of the 1992 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS). Data show the number of persons with insurance and average premiums paid by type of insurance held—individually purchased policies, employer-sponsored policies, or both. Distributions are shown for a variety of demographic, socioeconomic, and health status variables. Primary findings include: Seventy-eight percent of Medicare beneficiaries have private supplementary insurance; 25 percent of those with private insurance hold more than one policy. The average premium paid for private insurance in 1992 was $914. PMID:10153473

The E3 Ligase CHIP: Insights into Its Structure and Regulation

PubMed Central

Paul, Indranil; Ghosh, Mrinal K.

2014-01-01

The carboxy-terminus of Hsc70 interacting protein (CHIP) is a cochaperone E3 ligase containing three tandem repeats of tetratricopeptide (TPR) motifs and a C-terminal U-box domain separated by a charged coiled-coil region. CHIP is known to function as a central quality control E3 ligase and regulates several proteins involved in a myriad of physiological and pathological processes. Recent studies have highlighted varied regulatory mechanisms operating on the activity of CHIP which is crucial for cellular homeostasis. In this review article, we give a concise account of our current knowledge on the biochemistry and regulation of CHIP. PMID:24868554

Emerging Trends in the Discovery of Natural Product Antibacterials

PubMed Central

Bologa, Cristian G.; Ursu, Oleg; Oprea, Tudor; Melançon, Charles E.; Tegos, George P.

2013-01-01

This article highlights current trends and advances in exploiting natural sources for the deployment of novel and potent anti-infective countermeasures. The key challenge is to therapeutically target microbial pathogens exhibiting a variety of puzzling and evolutionary complex resistance mechanisms. Special emphasis is given to the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities in the natural product antimicrobial drug discovery arena, and to emerging applications driven by advances in bioinformatics, chemical biology, and synthetic biology in concert with exploiting the microbial phenotype. These orchestrated efforts have identified a critical mass of lead natural antimicrobials chemical scaffolds and discovery technologies with high probability of successful implementation against emerging microbial pathogens. PMID:23890825

Challenges and Opportunities in Using Patient-Reported Outcomes in Quality Measurement in Rheumatology

PubMed Central

Wahl, Elizabeth; Yazdany, Jinoos

2016-01-01

Summary Use of Patient-reported outcome measures (PROs) in rheumatology research is widespread, but use of PRO data to evaluate the quality of rheumatologic care delivered is less well established. This article reviews the use of PROs in assessing healthcare quality, and highlights challenges and opportunities specific to their use in rheumatology quality measurement. We first explore other countries’ experiences collecting and evaluating national PRO data to assess quality of care. We describe the current use of PROs as quality measures in rheumatology, and frame an agenda for future work supporting development of meaningful quality measures based on PROs. PMID:27133495

Women with disabilities' experience with physical and sexual abuse: review of the literature and implications for the field.

PubMed

Plummer, Sara-Beth; Findley, Patricia A

2012-01-01

While studies suggest that the rate of abuse of women with disabilities is similar or higher compared to the general population, there continues to be a lack of attention to this issue. Women with disabilities are at particularly high risk of abuse, both through typical forms of violence (physical, sexual, and emotional) and those that target one's disability. In an effort to highlight the need for increased attention to this issue, this article reviews the current peer-reviewed research in this field. The authors outline recommendations for future research goals and provide implications for research, practice, and policy.

Oral Sedation in the Dental Office.

PubMed

Sebastiani, Francesco R; Dym, Harry; Wolf, Joshua

2016-04-01

This article highlights the commonly used medications used in dentistry and oral surgery. General dentists and specialists must be knowledgeable about the pharmacology of the drugs currently available along with their risks and benefits. Enteral sedation is a useful adjunct for the treatment of anxious adult and pediatric patients. When enteral sedation is used within the standards of care, the interests of the public and the dental profession are served through a cost-effective, effective service that can be widely available. Oral sedation enables dentists to provide dental care to millions of individuals who otherwise would have unmet dental needs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Portal vein thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis

PubMed Central

von Köckritz, Leona; De Gottardi, Andrea; Praktiknjo, Michael

2017-01-01

Abstract Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is frequent in patients with liver cirrhosis and possible severe complications such as mesenteric ischemia are rare, but can be life-threatening. However, different aspects of clinical relevance, diagnosis and management of PVT are still areas of uncertainty and investigation in international guidelines. In this article, we elaborate on PVT classification, geographical differences in clinical presentation and standards of diagnosis, and briefly on the current pathophysiological understanding and risk factors. This review considers and highlights the pitfalls of the various treatment approaches and prophylactic treatments. Finally, we review the controversial issue of clinical impact of PVT on prognosis, especially considering liver transplantation and future perspectives. PMID:28533912

Beyond Homophily: A Decade of Advances in Understanding Peer Influence Processes

PubMed Central

Brechwald, Whitney A.; Prinstein, Mitchell J.

2013-01-01

This article reviews empirical and theoretical contributions to a multidisciplinary understanding of peer influence processes in adolescence over the past decade. Five themes of peer influence research from this decade were identified, including a broadening of the range of behaviors for which peer influence occurs, distinguishing the sources of influence, probing the conditions under which influence is amplified/attenuated (moderators), testing theoretically based models of peer influence processes (mechanisms), and preliminary exploration of behavioral neuroscience perspectives on peer influence. This review highlights advances in each of these areas, underscores gaps in current knowledge of peer influence processes, and outlines important challenges for future research. PMID:23730122

Former substance users working as counselors. A dual relationship.

PubMed

Hecksher, Dorte

2007-01-01

All helping professionals risk participation in "dual relationships." But in the case of former substance users working as counselors, specific dilemmas and problems are accentuated. A qualitative analysis highlights some of the ethical and personal dilemmas faced by these counselors. The data are derived from an interview study initiated in 2000 in Denmark on former substance users with 4-8 years of abstinence. Through an analysis of interview data from a larger group of former substance users, it became evident that those working as counselors experienced specific dilemmas and problems. The current article is based on individual reports of five counselors with recovery status.

Social Work Practice with Latinos: Key Issues for Social Workers

PubMed Central

Furman, Rich; Negi, Nalini Junko; Iwamoto, Derek Kenji; Rowan, Diana; Shukraft, Allison; Gragg, Jennifer

2010-01-01

The Latino population is the fastest growing group in the United States; thus, it is imperative that social workers and other mental health practitioners be knowledgeable about the current literature on how to effectively serve this population. This article elucidates key issues and knowledge, such as immigration and migration concerns; discusses how to assess for levels of acculturation; examines cultural values; and highlights salient work issues and health disparities that Latinos experience. Recommendations on how agencies and universities can recruit and promote bilingual practitioners are introduced. Finally, culturally responsive strategies for professional use of self and fostering the therapeutic alliance are discussed. PMID:19366165

Heavy atom labeled nucleotides for measurement of kinetic isotope effects.

PubMed

Weissman, Benjamin P; Li, Nan-Sheng; York, Darrin; Harris, Michael; Piccirilli, Joseph A

2015-11-01

Experimental analysis of kinetic isotope effects represents an extremely powerful approach for gaining information about the transition state structure of complex reactions not available through other methodologies. The implementation of this approach to the study of nucleic acid chemistry requires the synthesis of nucleobases and nucleotides enriched for heavy isotopes at specific positions. In this review, we highlight current approaches to the synthesis of nucleic acids enriched site specifically for heavy oxygen and nitrogen and their application in heavy atom isotope effect studies. This article is part of a special issue titled: Enzyme Transition States from Theory and Experiment. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Biomarkers in inflammatory bowel disease: current practices and recent advances.

PubMed

Iskandar, Heba N; Ciorba, Matthew A

2012-04-01

Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis represent the two main forms of the idiopathic chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Currently available blood and stool based biomarkers provide reproducible, quantitative tools that can complement clinical assessment to aid clinicians in IBD diagnosis and management. C-reactive protein and fecal based leukocyte markers can help the clinician distinguish IBD from noninflammatory diarrhea and assess disease activity. The ability to differentiate between forms of IBD and predict risk for disease complications is specific to serologic tests including antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic proteins. Advances in genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic array based technologies are facilitating the development of new biomarkers for IBD. The discovery of novel biomarkers, which can correlate with mucosal healing or predict long-term disease course has the potential to significantly improve patient care. This article reviews the uses and limitations of currently available biomarkers and highlights recent advances in IBD biomarker discovery. Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Emerging issue of e-waste in Pakistan: A review of status, research needs and data gaps.

PubMed

Iqbal, Mehreen; Breivik, Knut; Syed, Jabir Hussain; Malik, Riffat Naseem; Li, Jun; Zhang, Gan; Jones, Kevin C

2015-12-01

This review article focuses on the current situation of e-waste in Pakistan with the emphasis on defining the major e-waste recycling sites, current and future domestic generation of e-waste, hidden flows or import of e-waste and discusses various challenges for e-waste management. Needed policy interventions and possible measures to be taken at governmental level are discussed to avoid the increasing problem of e-waste in the country. Our findings highlight that there is still a general lack of reliable data, inventories and research studies addressing e-waste related issues in the context of environmental and human health in Pakistan. There is therefore a critical need to improve the current knowledge base, which should build upon the research experience from other countries which have experienced similar situations in the past. Further research into these issues in Pakistan is considered vital to help inform future policies/control strategies as already successfully implemented in other countries. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Institutional Ethics Committee Regulations and Current Updates in India.

PubMed

Mahuli, Amit V; Mahuli, Simpy A; Patil, Shankargouda; Bhandi, Shilpa

2017-08-01

The aim of the review is to provide current updates on regulations for ethics committees and researchers in India. Ethical dilemmas in research since time immemorial have been a major concern for researchers worldwide. The question "what makes clinical research ethical" is significant and difficult to answer as multiple factors are involved. The research involving human participants in clinical trials should follow the required rules, regulations, and guidelines in one's own country. It is a dynamic process, and updates have to be learned by researcher and committee members. The review highlights the ethical regulation from the Drug Controller General of India, Clinical Trial Registry of India, and Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines. In this article, the updates on Indian scenario of the Ethical Committee and guidelines are compiled. The review comes handy for clinical researchers and ethics committee members in academic institutions to check on the current updates and keep abreast with the knowledge on regulations of ethics in India.

Platinum Publications, November 27, 2014 – February 26, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, October 30 – November 26, 2014 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, June 1–June 30, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, March 27 – April 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, January 1–March 31, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, December 30, 2016–January 25, 2017 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, May 1 – June 25, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, October 30–December 31, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, February 27 – March 26, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, July 29–September 29, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, July 1–July 28, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, July 31–September 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, October 28–November 30, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, June 26–July 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, September 26 – October 29, 2014 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, September 30–October 27, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Platinum Publications, October 1–29, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from

Integration of oncology and palliative care: a systematic review.

PubMed

Hui, David; Kim, Yu Jung; Park, Ji Chan; Zhang, Yi; Strasser, Florian; Cherny, Nathan; Kaasa, Stein; Davis, Mellar P; Bruera, Eduardo

2015-01-01

Both the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the European Society for Medical Oncology strongly endorse integrating oncology and palliative care (PC); however, a global consensus on what constitutes integration is currently lacking. To better understand what integration entails, we conducted a systematic review to identify articles addressing the clinical, educational, research, and administrative indicators of integration. We searched Ovid MEDLINE and Ovid EMBase between 1948 and 2013. Two researchers independently reviewed each citation for inclusion and extracted the indicators related to integration. The inter-rater agreement was high (κ = 0.96, p < .001). Of the 431 publications in our initial search, 101 were included. A majority were review articles (58%) published in oncology journals (59%) and in or after 2010 (64%, p < .001). A total of 55 articles (54%), 33 articles (32%), 24 articles (24%), and 14 articles (14%) discussed the role of outpatient clinics, community-based care, PC units, and inpatient consultation teams in integration, respectively. Process indicators of integration include interdisciplinary PC teams (n = 72), simultaneous care approach (n = 71), routine symptom screening (n = 25), PC guidelines (n = 33), care pathways (n = 11), and combined tumor boards (n = 10). A total of 66 articles (65%) mentioned early involvement of PC, 18 (18%) provided a specific timing, and 28 (28%) discussed referral criteria. A total of 45 articles (45%), 20 articles (20%), and 66 articles (65%) discussed 8, 4, and 9 indicators related to the educational, research, and administrative aspects of integration, respectively. Integration was a heterogeneously defined concept. Our systematic review highlighted 38 clinical, educational, research, and administrative indicators. With further refinement, these indicators may facilitate assessment of the level of integration of oncology and PC. ©AlphaMed Press.

Research Library Issues. RLI 293

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baughman, M. Sue, Ed.

2018-01-01

This issue of "Research Library Issues" ("RLI") presents an introduction article and two companion articles, which highlight Net Neutrality. The introduction article, "Why Net Neutrality Matters and What Research Libraries Can Do about It" (Mary Lee Kennedy), explains that the fundamental intent of the open internet…

Value for money in South African health care: findings of a review of health expenditure and finance.

PubMed

Doherty, J; McIntyre, D; Bloom, G

1996-01-01

This article highlights the most striking findings of a review of health expenditure and finance in South Africa in 1992/3. The level of national expenditure on health care, and the distribution of resources between the public and private sectors, are discussed first. Then the article highlights the maldistribution of financial, physical and human resources on a geographic basis, racially and between levels of care. The cost of redressing inequities, at least at the primary care level, is mentioned in the context of seeking options for additional sources of finance. The article concludes by examining the planning prerequisites for successful reform.

Contingency management: New directions and remaining challenges for an evidence-based intervention

PubMed Central

Rash, Carla J.; Stitzer, Maxine; Weinstock, Jeremiah

2016-01-01

This article introduces the special issue on contingency management (CM), an efficacious intervention for the treatment of substance use disorders with low uptake in clinical settings that is not commensurate with evidence for efficacy. In this special issue of the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, we present 16 articles representing the latest research in efficacy, implementation, and technological advances related to CM. Combined, this collection of articles highlights the diverse populations, settings, and applications of CM in the treatment of substance use disorders. We conclude by highlighting directions for future research, particularly those that may increase CM’s appeal and uptake in routine clinical care. PMID:27746057

Determination of Death and the Dead Donor Rule: A Survey of the Current Law on Brain Death.

PubMed

Nikas, Nikolas T; Bordlee, Dorinda C; Moreira, Madeline

2016-06-01

Despite seeming uniformity in the law, end-of-life controversies have highlighted variations among state brain death laws and their interpretation by courts. This article provides a survey of the current legal landscape regarding brain death in the United States, for the purpose of assisting professionals who seek to formulate or assess proposals for changes in current law and hospital policy. As we note, the public is increasingly wary of the role of organ transplantation in determinations of death, and of the variability of brain death diagnosing criteria. We urge that any attempt to alter current state statutes or to adopt a national standard must balance the need for medical accuracy with sound ethical principles which reject the utilitarian use of human beings and are consistent with the dignity of the human person. Only in this way can public trust be rebuilt. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press, on behalf of the Journal of Medicine and Philosophy Inc. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Systematic review of structural interventions for intimate partner violence in low- and middle-income countries: organizing evidence for prevention.

PubMed

Bourey, Christine; Williams, Whitney; Bernstein, Erin Elizabeth; Stephenson, Rob

2015-11-23

Despite growing attention to intimate partner violence (IPV) globally, systematic evaluation of evidence for IPV prevention remains limited. This particularly is true in relation to low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), where researchers often organize evidence by current interventions strategies rather than comprehensive models of IPV. Applying the concept of structural interventions to IPV, we systematically reviewed the quantitative impact of such interventions for prevention of male-to-female IPV in LMIC in order to (a) highlight current opportunities for IPV research and programming and (b) demonstrate how structural interventions may provide an organizing framework through which to build an evidence base for IPV prevention. We identified articles by systematically searching PubMed and Web of Science, reviewing references of selected studies, and contacting 23 experts. Inclusion criteria included original research, written in English, published between January 2000 and May 2015 in the peer-reviewed literature. Studies evaluated the quantitative impact of structural interventions for the prevention of male-to-female IPV in LMIC through (a) IPV incidence or prevalence or (b) secondary outcomes theoretically linked to IPV by study authors. After initial screening, we evaluated full text articles for inclusion and extracted data on study characteristics, outcomes, and risk of bias, using forms developed for the review. Twenty articles (16 studies) from nine countries met inclusion criteria, representing 13 randomized control trials and seven additional studies, all of which reported results from economic, social, or combined economic and social interventions. Standardized at p < 0.05 or 95 % confidence intervals not including unity, 13 studies demonstrated statistically significant effects for at least one primary or secondary outcome, including decreased IPV and controlling behaviors; improved economic wellbeing; enhanced relationship quality, empowerment, or social capital; reduced acceptability of IPV; new help seeking behaviors; and more equitable gender norms. Risk of bias, however, varied in meaningful ways. Our findings support the potential effectiveness of structural interventions for IPV prevention. Structural interventions, as an organizing framework, may advance IPV prevention by consolidating available evidence; highlighting opportunities to assess a broader range of interventions, including politico-legal and physical approaches; and emphasizing opportunities to improve evaluation of such interventions.

Working towards a consensus for antibody validation.

PubMed

Reiss, Peter D; Min, Danxi; Leung, Mei Y

2014-01-01

Commercial research antibodies are the most commonly used product in the life science tools market, and their applications represent a significant investment of time and resources for researchers. Frequently however, the quality of antibodies does not meet the expectations of consumers, causing loss of valuable time and money. This can delay research efforts and scientific discovery, or even lead to false, irreproducible results to be published in the scientific literature. This raises the question of whether there should be universal standards for validating antibodies.   During the 1 (st) International Antibody Validation Forum, hosted by St John's Laboratory Ltd on October 15 (th) 2014 at Queen Mary University of London, scientists from academia and industry presented data highlighting quality issues arising from lack of antibody validation. While the forum identified significant current problems in the antibody market, it also discussed future opportunities for improved quality and transparency by encouraging data disclosure and data sharing. This article highlights the key issues and conclusions reached at the forum.

Decision support systems for clinical radiological practice — towards the next generation

PubMed Central

Stivaros, S M; Gledson, A; Nenadic, G; Zeng, X-J; Keane, J; Jackson, A

2010-01-01

The huge amount of information that needs to be assimilated in order to keep pace with the continued advances in modern medical practice can form an insurmountable obstacle to the individual clinician. Within radiology, the recent development of quantitative imaging techniques, such as perfusion imaging, and the development of imaging-based biomarkers in modern therapeutic assessment has highlighted the need for computer systems to provide the radiological community with support for academic as well as clinical/translational applications. This article provides an overview of the underlying design and functionality of radiological decision support systems with examples tracing the development and evolution of such systems over the past 40 years. More importantly, we discuss the specific design, performance and usage characteristics that previous systems have highlighted as being necessary for clinical uptake and routine use. Additionally, we have identified particular failings in our current methodologies for data dissemination within the medical domain that must be overcome if the next generation of decision support systems is to be implemented successfully. PMID:20965900

Latest discoveries and trends in translational cancer research: highlights of the 2008 Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.

PubMed

Cho, William C S

2008-08-01

The Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is the world's largest and most comprehensive gathering of cancer researchers. At the 2008 AACR Annual Meeting, innovative research approaches, novel technologies, potentially life-saving therapies in the pipeline, late-breaking clinical trial findings, and new approaches to cancer prevention were presented by top scientists. Reflecting the global state of cancer research with an eye toward future trends, several areas of great science and discovery in the cancer field were shared in this report, which include cancer biomarkers, the role of microRNAs in cancer research, cancer stem cells, tumor microenvironment, targeted therapy, and cancer prevention. This article presents an overview of hot topics discussed at the 2008 AACR Annual Meeting and recapitulates some scientific sessions geared toward new technologies, recent progress, and current challenges reported by cancer researchers. For those who did not attend the meeting, this report may serve as a highlight of this important international cancer research meeting.

Bad air gets under your skin.

PubMed

Koohgoli, Roxanna; Hudson, Laura; Naidoo, Khimara; Wilkinson, Simon; Chavan, Bhaven; Birch-Machin, Mark A

2017-05-01

Air pollution is increasing beyond previous estimates and is viewed as the world's largest environmental health risk factor. Numerous clinical and epidemiological studies have highlighted the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on health. Although there is comparatively less research investigating the cutaneous effects of ambient pollution, there is growing recognition of the adverse effects on skin. In this article, we provide an overview of the nature of environmental pollution and highlight the current evidence detailing the effects on cutaneous health. There is convincing evidence demonstrating that air pollution has a detrimental impact on skin and can exacerbate skin disease. Further epidemiological and experimental studies are required to assess the short- and long-term deleterious effects of ambient pollutant exposure on skin. The future challenge would be to use this evidence to develop specific strategies to protect against pollution-induced damage and prevent the effects of "bad air getting under our skin." © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service research on pest biology: weeds.

PubMed

Forcella, Frank

2003-01-01

Over 125 permanent full-time scientists conduct research within the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) on issues related to weeds. The research emphasis of most of these scientists involves ecology and management or biological control of weeds. Many scientists perform research on weed biology as components of their primary projects on weed control and integrated crop and soil management. Describing all ARS projects involved with weed biology is impossible, and consequently only research that falls within the following arbitrarily chosen topics is highlighted in this article: dormancy mechanisms; cell division; diversity of rangeland weeds; soil resources and rangeland weeds; poisonous rangeland plants; horticultural weeds; weed traits limiting chemical control; aquatic and semi-aquatic weeds; weed/transgenic wheat hybrids; seedbanks, seedling emergence and seedling populations; and weed seed production. Within these topics, and others not highlighted, the desire of ARS is that good information on weed biology currently translates or eventually will translate into practical advice for those who must manage weeds.

Evaluation of in vitro vs. in vivo methods for assessment of dermal absorption of organic flame retardants: a review.

PubMed

Abdallah, Mohamed Abou-Elwafa; Pawar, Gopal; Harrad, Stuart

2015-01-01

There is a growing interest to study human dermal exposure to a large number of chemicals, whether in the indoor or outdoor environment. Such studies are essential to predict the systemic exposure to xenobiotic chemicals for risk assessment purposes and to comply with various regulatory guidelines. However, very little is currently known about human dermal exposure to persistent organic pollutants. While recent pharmacokinetic studies have highlighted the importance of dermal contact as a pathway of human exposure to brominated flame retardants, risk assessment studies had to apply assumed values for percutaneous penetration of various flame retardants (FRs) due to complete absence of specific experimental data on their human dermal bioavailability. Therefore, this article discusses the current state-of-knowledge on the significance of dermal contact as a pathway of human exposure to FRs. The available literature on in vivo and in vitro methods for assessment of dermal absorption of FRs in human and laboratory animals is critically reviewed. Finally, a novel approach for studying human dermal absorption of FRs using in vitro three-dimensional (3D) human skin equivalent models is presented and the challenges facing future dermal absorption studies on FRs are highlighted. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mental health and violence: WPA Cairo declaration--international perspectives for intervention.

PubMed

Okasha, A

2007-06-01

This article consists of two sections. In the first section, the author presents a comprehensive review which highlights the psychological consequences suffered by populations living in war zones, revealing the worrying prevalence of fear, panic, depressions, behavioral disturbances and PTSD. Especially vulnerable groups include women, children, the disabled and the elderly. Loss and destruction of homes, loss of male heads of households to death or captivity, displacement and exposure to the dangers of sexual abuse and rape, almost always associated with war crimes leaves women, especially mothers at high risk of hopelessness and depression. The level of depressive symptomatology in the mother was found to be the best predictor of her child's reported morbidity. The devastation of families and the breakdown of the home structure deprive the elderly and the handicapped of the family care, which usually constitutes their primary resource of support. In the second section of the article, the author summarizes the efforts done by the World Psychiatric Association, in addressing the consequences of war and collective violence in the different regions of the world. The author suggests a comprehensive professional intervention program, involving several world organizations involved in health and education. Also, of special importance in that regard is the role of key religious institutions, to highlight the peaceful values carried by all religions and to replace the currently dominant messages of conflict and rejection of the "other".

Equity and financing for sexual and reproductive health service delivery: current innovations.

PubMed

Montagu, Dominic; Graff, Maura

2009-07-01

National and international decisions on financing for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services have profound effects on the type, unit costs and distribution of SRH commodities and services produced, and on their availability and consumption. Much international and national funding is politically driven and is doing little for equity and quality improvement. Financing remains a significant challenge in most developing countries and demands creative responses. While no "one-size-fits-all" solution exists, there are numerous ongoing examples of successful innovations, many of which are focusing on resource pooling and on purchasing or subsidising SRH services. In this article we have used interviews, grey literature and presentations made at a range of recent public fora to identify new and innovative ways of financing SRH services so as to increase equity in developing countries. Because SRH services are often of low value as a personal good but high value as a public good, we summarise the issues from a societal perspective, highlighting the importance of financing and policy decisions for SRH services. We provide a structured overview of what novel approaches to financing appear to have positive effects in a range of developing countries. Targeting, government payment mechanisms, subsidy delivery and co-financing for sustainability are highlighted as showing particular promise. Examples are used throughout the article to illustrate innovative strategies.

Cystic fibrosis year in review 2016.

PubMed

Savant, Adrienne P; McColley, Susanna A

2017-08-01

In this article, we highlight cystic fibrosis (CF) research and case reports published in Pediatric Pulmonology during 2016. We also include articles from a variety of journals that are thematically related to these articles, or are of special interest to clinicians. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

I-DECIDE: An Online Intervention Drawing on the Psychosocial Readiness Model for Women Experiencing Domestic Violence.

PubMed

Tarzia, Laura; Murray, Elizabeth; Humphreys, Cathy; Glass, Nancy; Taft, Angela; Valpied, Jodie; Hegarty, Kelsey

2016-01-01

Domestic violence (DV) perpetrated by men against women is a pervasive global problem with significant physical and emotional consequences. Although some face-to-face interventions in health care settings have shown promise, there are barriers to disclosure to health care practitioners and women may not be ready to access or accept help, reducing uptake. Similar to the mental health field, interventions from clinical practice can be adapted to be delivered by technology. This article outlines the theoretical and conceptual development of I-DECIDE, an online healthy relationship tool and safety decision aid for women experiencing DV. The article explores the use of the Psychosocial Readiness Model (PRM) as a theoretical framework for the intervention and evaluation. This is a theoretical article drawing on current theory and literature around health care and online interventions for DV. The article argues that the Internet as a method of intervention delivery for DV might overcome many of the barriers present in health care settings. Using the PRM as a framework for an online DV intervention may help women on a pathway to safety and well-being for themselves and their children. This hypothesis will be tested in a randomized, controlled trial in 2015/2016. This article highlights the importance of using a theoretical model in intervention development and evaluation. Copyright © 2016 Jacobs Institute of Women's Health. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Do e-mail alerts of new research increase knowledge translation? A "Nephrology Now" randomized control trial.

PubMed

Tanna, Gemini V; Sood, Manish M; Schiff, Jeffrey; Schwartz, Daniel; Naimark, David M

2011-01-01

As the volume of medical literature increases exponentially, maintaining current clinical practice is becoming more difficult. Multiple, Internet-based journal clubs and alert services have recently emerged. The purpose of this study is to determine whether the use of the e-mail alert service, Nephrology Now, increases knowledge translation regarding current nephrology literature. Nephrology Now is a nonprofit, monthly e-mail alert service that highlights clinically relevant articles in nephrology. In 2007-2008, the authors randomized 1,683 subscribers into two different groups receiving select intervention articles, and then they used an online survey to assess both groups on their familiarity with the articles and their acquisition of knowledge. Of the randomized subscribers, 803 (47.7%) completed surveys, and the two groups had a similar number of responses (401 and 402, respectively). The authors noted no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups. Familiarity increased as a result of the Nephrology Now alerts (0.23 ± 0.087 units on a familiarity scale; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06-0.41; P = .007) especially in physicians (multivariate odds ratio 1.83; P = .0002). No detectable improvement in knowledge occurred (0.03 ± 0.083 units on a knowledge scale; 95% CI: -0.13 to 0.20; P = .687). An e-mail alert service of new literature improved a component of knowledge translation--familiarity--but not knowledge acquisition in a large, randomized, international population.

An integrative framework for sensor-based measurement of teamwork in healthcare

PubMed Central

Rosen, Michael A; Dietz, Aaron S; Yang, Ting; Priebe, Carey E; Pronovost, Peter J

2015-01-01

There is a strong link between teamwork and patient safety. Emerging evidence supports the efficacy of teamwork improvement interventions. However, the availability of reliable, valid, and practical measurement tools and strategies is commonly cited as a barrier to long-term sustainment and spread of these teamwork interventions. This article describes the potential value of sensor-based technology as a methodology to measure and evaluate teamwork in healthcare. The article summarizes the teamwork literature within healthcare, including team improvement interventions and measurement. Current applications of sensor-based measurement of teamwork are reviewed to assess the feasibility of employing this approach in healthcare. The article concludes with a discussion highlighting current application needs and gaps and relevant analytical techniques to overcome the challenges to implementation. Compelling studies exist documenting the feasibility of capturing a broad array of team input, process, and output variables with sensor-based methods. Implications of this research are summarized in a framework for development of multi-method team performance measurement systems. Sensor-based measurement within healthcare can unobtrusively capture information related to social networks, conversational patterns, physical activity, and an array of other meaningful information without having to directly observe or periodically survey clinicians. However, trust and privacy concerns present challenges that need to be overcome through engagement of end users in healthcare. Initial evidence exists to support the feasibility of sensor-based measurement to drive feedback and learning across individual, team, unit, and organizational levels. Future research is needed to refine methods, technologies, theory, and analytical strategies. PMID:25053579

Platinum Publications, October 1–29, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Integration of Latino/a cultural values into palliative health care: a culture centered model.

PubMed

Adames, Hector Y; Chavez-Dueñas, Nayeli Y; Fuentes, Milton A; Salas, Silvia P; Perez-Chavez, Jessica G

2014-04-01

Culture helps us grapple with, understand, and navigate the dying process. Although often overlooked, cultural values play a critical and influential role in palliative care. The purpose of the present study was two-fold: one, to review whether Latino/a cultural values have been integrated into the palliative care literature for Latinos/as; two, identify publications that provide recommendations on how palliative care providers can integrate Latino/a cultural values into the end-of-life care. A comprehensive systematic review on the area of Latino/a cultural values in palliative care was conducted via an electronic literature search of publications between 1930-2013. Five articles were identified for reviewing, discussing, or mentioning Latino/a cultural values and palliative care. Only one article specifically addressed Latino/a cultural values in palliative care. The four remaining articles discuss or mention cultural values; however, the cultural values were not the main focus of each article's thesis. The results of the current study highlight the lack of literature specifically addressing the importance of integrating Latino/a cultural values into the delivery of palliative care. As a result, this article introduces the Culture-Centered Palliative Care Model (CCPC). The article defines five key traditional Latino/a cultural values (i.e., familismo, personalismo, respeto, confianza, and dignidad), discusses the influence of each value on palliative health care, and ends with practical recommendations for service providers. Special attention is given to the stages of acculturation and ethnic identity.

A Scientific Analysis of the 100 Citation Classics of Valvular Heart Disease.

PubMed

Usman, Muhammad Shariq; Siddiqi, Tariq Jamal; Khan, Muhammad Shahzeb; Fatima, Kaneez; Butler, Javed; Manning, Warren J; Khosa, Faisal

2017-10-15

Bibliometric analyses can help researchers and research funding agencies determine which areas of medicine need appropriate research attention. Citation classics of several specialties and subspecialties have been published; however, a literature search did not turn up any in the field of valvular heart disease (VHD). The main objective of this analysis was to overcome this paucity by identifying the top 100 cited articles in VHD and to assess their characteristics. We chose Scopus as our database, from where relevant articles were extracted after a thorough search by 2 independent researchers. A list of the top 100 cited articles was prepared, after which a detailed analysis of the list was conducted. The top-cited articles were published in the 63-year era starting from 1951, with the most articles published in the 10-year interval of 2001 to 2010. The citations of the articles ranged from 438 to 2,717 with a median of 609.5. Manuscripts from our top-cited list originated from 25 different countries. Most of the articles in the top 100 list were published in high-impact journals, with about a third of the articles published in Circulation (n = 27). Our study also reveals that the current focus of researchers in the field is on transcatheter aortic valve replacement, and therefore, funding in this area is likely to result in impactful studies. In conclusion, our study highlights the characteristics of high-impact articles in the field of VHD, and this information may be useful for investigators planning to conduct studies in this area of medicine in the future. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Child rights and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Ireland.

PubMed

Damodaran, J; Sherlock, C

2013-12-01

This paper explores children's rights in the child and adolescent mental health arena in Ireland. It begins by outlining the legal and policy contexts of both children's services and mental health policy and practice. It specifically focuses on the notion of participation as a key factor in addressing rights-based approaches in the provision of services. The article explores current practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, highlights some of the disparities in services, which result in questions about human rights. Mainly reflective in its approach, it does, however, provide data from a small scale qualitative study carried out in relation to young people diagnosed with ADHD and their perceptions of psychopharmacological approach. The issue of consent is explored as an example of how current practice approaches fall short of a rights-based framework. It concludes with recommendations for changes incorporating a more participatory and collaborative approach.

Photogrammetry and optical methods in structural dynamics - A review

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baqersad, Javad; Poozesh, Peyman; Niezrecki, Christopher; Avitabile, Peter

2017-03-01

In the last few decades, there has been a surge of research in the area of non-contact measurement techniques. Photogrammetry has received considerable attention due to its ability to achieve full-field measurement and its robustness to work in testing environments and on testing articles in which using other measurement techniques may not be practical. More recently, researchers have used this technique to study transient phenomena and to perform measurements on vibrating structures. The current paper reviews the most current trends in the photogrammetry technique (point tracking, digital image correlation, and target-less approaches) and compares the applications of photogrammetry to other measurement techniques used in structural dynamics (e.g. laser Doppler vibrometry and interferometry techniques). The paper does not present the theoretical background of the optical techniques, but instead presents the general principles of each approach and highlights the novel structural dynamic measurement concepts and applications that are enhanced by utilizing optical techniques.

Surgical Management of Hemorrhoids

PubMed Central

Agbo, S. P.

2011-01-01

Hemorrhoids are common human afflictions known since the dawn of history. Surgical management of this condition has made tremendous progress from complex ligation and excision procedures in the past to simpler techniques that allow the patient to return to normal life within a short period. Newer techniques try to improve on the post-operative complications of older ones. The surgical options for the management of hemorrhoids today are many. Capturing all in a single article may be difficult if not impossible. The aim of this study therefore is to present in a concise form some of the common surgical options in current literature, highlighting some important post operative complications. Current literature is searched using MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane library. The conclusion is that even though there are many surgical options in the management of hemorrhoids today, most employ the ligature and excision technique with newer ones having reduced post operative pain and bleeding. PMID:22413048

Reproduction and pregnancy in transplant recipients: current practices.

PubMed

McKay, Dianne B; Adams, Patricia L; Bumgardner, Ginny L; Davis, Connie L; Fine, Richard N; Krams, Sheri M; Martinez, Olivia M; Murphy, Barbara; Pavlakis, Martha; Tolkoff-Rubin, Nina; Sherman, Michael S; Josephson, Michelle A

2006-06-01

Many transplant physicians are faced with questions from their patients about the safety and long-term consequences of pregnancy following transplantation. To better understand how pregnancies are managed and to clarify the outcome of pregnancy after transplantation, a survey questionnaire was developed and mailed to all medical and surgical directors of transplant centers throughout the United States; responses were obtained from 59.1% of the transplant centers. Although many opinions were collected, most respondents conceded that their opinions were based on personal experience rather than evidence-based. The underutilization of existing information was revealing and highlighted a need for an evidence-based approach to care of the pregnant transplant recipient and her offspring. The survey results, reported in this article, led to formation of a consensus conference to determine the optimal approach to pregnant transplant recipients and to define what is currently known and unknown about reproduction and transplantation.

Tissue-mimicking gel phantoms for thermal therapy studies.

PubMed

Dabbagh, Ali; Abdullah, Basri Johan Jeet; Ramasindarum, Chanthiriga; Abu Kasim, Noor Hayaty

2014-10-01

Tissue-mimicking phantoms that are currently available for routine biomedical applications may not be suitable for high-temperature experiments or calibration of thermal modalities. Therefore, design and fabrication of customized thermal phantoms with tailored properties are necessary for thermal therapy studies. A multitude of thermal phantoms have been developed in liquid, solid, and gel forms to simulate biological tissues in thermal therapy experiments. This article is an attempt to outline the various materials and techniques used to prepare thermal phantoms in the gel state. The relevant thermal, electrical, acoustic, and optical properties of these phantoms are presented in detail and the benefits and shortcomings of each type are discussed. This review could assist the researchers in the selection of appropriate phantom recipes for their in vitro study of thermal modalities and highlight the limitations of current phantom recipes that remain to be addressed in further studies. © The Author(s) 2014.

Getting a head start: the importance of personal genetics education in high schools.

PubMed

Kung, Johnny T; Gelbart, Marnie E

2012-03-01

With advances in sequencing technology, widespread and affordable genome sequencing will soon be a reality. However, studies suggest that "genetic literacy" of the general public is inadequate to prepare our society for this unprecedented access to our genetic information. As the current generation of high school students will come of age in an era when personal genetic information is increasingly utilized in health care, it is of vital importance to ensure these students understand the genetic concepts necessary to make informed medical decisions. These concepts include not only basic scientific knowledge, but also considerations of the ethical, legal, and social issues that will arise in the age of personal genomics. In this article, we review the current state of genetics education, highlight issues that we believe need to be addressed in a comprehensive genetics education curriculum, and describe our education efforts at the Harvard Medical School-based Personal Genetics Education Project.

Regeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament: Current strategies in tissue engineering

PubMed Central

Nau, Thomas; Teuschl, Andreas

2015-01-01

Recent advancements in the field of musculoskeletal tissue engineering have raised an increasing interest in the regeneration of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It is the aim of this article to review the current research efforts and highlight promising tissue engineering strategies. The four main components of tissue engineering also apply in several ACL regeneration research efforts. Scaffolds from biological materials, biodegradable polymers and composite materials are used. The main cell sources are mesenchymal stem cells and ACL fibroblasts. In addition, growth factors and mechanical stimuli are applied. So far, the regenerated ACL constructs have been tested in a few animal studies and the results are encouraging. The different strategies, from in vitro ACL regeneration in bioreactor systems to bio-enhanced repair and regeneration, are under constant development. We expect considerable progress in the near future that will result in a realistic option for ACL surgery soon. PMID:25621217

MR-guided prostate interventions.

PubMed

Tempany, Clare; Straus, Sarah; Hata, Nobuhiko; Haker, Steven

2008-02-01

In this article the current issues of diagnosis and detection of prostate cancer are reviewed. The limitations for current techniques are highlighted and some possible solutions with MR imaging and MR-guided biopsy approaches are reviewed. There are several different biopsy approaches under investigation. These include transperineal open magnet approaches to closed-bore 1.5T transrectal biopsies. The imaging, image processing, and tracking methods are also discussed. In the arena of therapy, MR guidance has been used in conjunction with radiation methods, either brachytherapy or external delivery. The principles of the radiation treatment, the toxicities, and use of images are outlined. The future role of imaging and image-guided interventions lie with providing a noninvasive surrogate for cancer surveillance or monitoring treatment response. The shift to minimally invasive focal therapies has already begun and will be very exciting when MR-guided focused ultrasound surgery reaches its full potential. (Copyright) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

MR-Guided Prostate Interventions

PubMed Central

Tempany, Clare; Straus, Sarah; Hata, Nobuhiko; Haker, Steven

2009-01-01

In this article the current issues of diagnosis and detection of prostate cancer are reviewed. The limitations for current techniques are highlighted and some possible solutions with MR imaging and MR-guided biopsy approaches are reviewed. There are several different biopsy approaches under investigation. These include transperineal open magnet approaches to closed-bore 1.5T transrectal biopsies. The imaging, image processing, and tracking methods are also discussed. In the arena of therapy, MR guidance has been used in conjunction with radiation methods, either brachytherapy or external delivery. The principles of the radiation treatment, the toxicities, and use of images are outlined. The future role of imaging and image-guided interventions lie with providing a noninvasive surrogate for cancer surveillance or monitoring treatment response. The shift to minimally invasive focal therapies has already begun and will be very exciting when MR-guided focused ultrasound surgery reaches its full potential. PMID:18219689

Bluetooth-enabled teleradiology: applications and complications.

PubMed

Hura, Angela M

2002-01-01

Wireless personal area networks and local area networks are becoming increasingly more prevalent in the teleradiology and telemedicine industry. Although there has been much debate about the role that Bluetooth will play in the future of wireless technology, both promoters and doubters acknowledge that Bluetooth will have an impact on networking, even if only as a "niche" product. This article provides an overview of the Bluetooth standard and highlights current and future areas of inclusion for use in a teleradiology environment. The possibilities for Bluetooth in a teleradiology environment without wires are nearly boundless and an overview of current and proposed Bluetooth-enabled radiology equipment and vendors is provided. A comparison of Bluetooth and other wireless technologies is provided, including areas of similarity and potential conflict. Bluetooth and other wireless technologies can not only peacefully coexist but also complement each other and provide enhanced teleradiology services.

Cardiac Embryology and Molecular Mechanisms of Congenital Heart Disease: A Primer for Anesthesiologists.

PubMed

Kloesel, Benjamin; DiNardo, James A; Body, Simon C

2016-09-01

Congenital heart disease is diagnosed in 0.4% to 5% of live births and presents unique challenges to the pediatric anesthesiologist. Furthermore, advances in surgical management have led to improved survival of those patients, and many adult anesthesiologists now frequently take care of adolescents and adults who have previously undergone surgery to correct or palliate congenital heart lesions. Knowledge of abnormal heart development on the molecular and genetic level extends and improves the anesthesiologist's understanding of congenital heart disease. In this article, we aim to review current knowledge pertaining to genetic alterations and their cellular effects that are involved in the formation of congenital heart defects. Given that congenital heart disease can currently only occasionally be traced to a single genetic mutation, we highlight some of the difficulties that researchers face when trying to identify specific steps in the pathogenetic development of heart lesions.

Skyrmions in magnetic multilayers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Wanjun; Chen, Gong; Liu, Kai; Zang, Jiadong; te Velthuis, Suzanne G. E.; Hoffmann, Axel

2017-08-01

Symmetry breaking together with strong spin-orbit interaction gives rise to many exciting phenomena within condensed matter physics. A recent example is the existence of chiral spin textures, which are observed in magnetic systems lacking inversion symmetry. These chiral spin textures, including domain walls and magnetic skyrmions, are both fundamentally interesting and technologically promising. For example, they can be driven very efficiently by electrical currents, and exhibit many new physical properties determined by their real-space topological characteristics. Depending on the details of the competing interactions, these spin textures exist in different parameter spaces. However, the governing mechanism underlying their physical behaviors remains essentially the same. In this review article, the fundamental topological physics underlying these chiral spin textures, the key factors for materials optimization, and current developments and future challenges will be discussed. In the end, a few promising directions that will advance the development of skyrmion based spintronics will be highlighted.

Clinical development of gene therapy needs a tailored approach: a regulatory perspective from the European Union.

PubMed

Narayanan, Gopalan; Cossu, Giulio; Galli, Maria Cristina; Flory, Egbert; Ovelgonne, Hans; Salmikangas, Paula; Schneider, Christian K; Trouvin, Jean-Hugues

2014-03-01

Gene therapy is a rapidly evolving field that needs an integrated approach, as acknowledged in the concept article on the revision of the guideline on gene transfer medicinal products. The first gene therapy application for marketing authorization was approved in the International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) region in 2012, the product being Alipogene tiparvovec. The regulatory process for this product has been commented on extensively, highlighting the challenges posed by such a novel technology. Here, as current or previous members of the Committee for Advanced Therapies, we share our perspectives and views on gene therapy as a treatment modality based on current common understanding and regulatory experience of gene therapy products in the European Union to date. It is our view that a tailored approach is needed for a given gene therapy product in order to achieve successful marketing authorization.

Robotic surgical systems in maxillofacial surgery: a review

PubMed Central

Liu, Hang-Hang; Li, Long-Jiang; Shi, Bin; Xu, Chun-Wei; Luo, En

2017-01-01

Throughout the twenty-first century, robotic surgery has been used in multiple oral surgical procedures for the treatment of head and neck tumors and non-malignant diseases. With the assistance of robotic surgical systems, maxillofacial surgery is performed with less blood loss, fewer complications, shorter hospitalization and better cosmetic results than standard open surgery. However, the application of robotic surgery techniques to the treatment of head and neck diseases remains in an experimental stage, and the long-lasting effects on surgical morbidity, oncologic control and quality of life are yet to be established. More well-designed studies are needed before this approach can be recommended as a standard treatment paradigm. Nonetheless, robotic surgical systems will inevitably be extended to maxillofacial surgery. This article reviews the current clinical applications of robotic surgery in the head and neck region and highlights the benefits and limitations of current robotic surgical systems. PMID:28660906

Obesity and hypertension in Latin America: Current perspectives.

PubMed

Ruilope, L M; Nunes Filho, A C B; Nadruz, W; Rodríguez Rosales, F F; Verdejo-Paris, J

In the countries of Central America, South America and the Caribbean, there has been a dramatic rise in obesity, the metabolic syndrome, hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors in the last few decades. Epidemiological evidence highlights a consistent correlation between obesity and hypertension, and the presence of obesity predisposes an individual to a greater risk of hypertension although the mechanisms remain unclear. Obesity and hypertension are two key drivers of the cardio-renal disease continuum, and patients with uncontrolled cardiovascular risk in their mid-life will likely have an increased risk of clinical cardiovascular and renal outcomes in old age. This article summarizes the current status for the prevalence and consequences of obesity and hypertension in Latin America, with the aim of initiating a call to action to all stakeholders for greater implementation of primary prevention strategies, particularly in the young. Copyright © 2018 SEH-LELHA. Publicado por Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Intervention among Suicidal Men: Future Directions for Telephone Crisis Support Research.

PubMed

Hunt, Tara; Wilson, Coralie J; Woodward, Alan; Caputi, Peter; Wilson, Ian

2018-01-01

Telephone crisis support is a confidential, accessible, and immediate service that is uniquely set up to reduce male suicide deaths through crisis intervention. However, research focusing on telephone crisis support with suicidal men is currently limited. To highlight the need to address service delivery for men experiencing suicidal crisis, this perspective article identifies key challenges facing current telephone crisis support research and proposes that understanding of the role of telephone crisis helplines in supporting suicidal men may be strengthened by careful examination of the context of telephone crisis support, together with the impact this has on help-provision for male suicidal callers. In particular, the impact of the time- and information-poor context of telephone crisis support on crisis-line staff's identification of, and response to, male callers with thoughts of suicide is examined. Future directions for research in the provision of telephone crisis support for suicidal men are discussed.

Intervention among Suicidal Men: Future Directions for Telephone Crisis Support Research

PubMed Central

Hunt, Tara; Wilson, Coralie J.; Woodward, Alan; Caputi, Peter; Wilson, Ian

2018-01-01

Telephone crisis support is a confidential, accessible, and immediate service that is uniquely set up to reduce male suicide deaths through crisis intervention. However, research focusing on telephone crisis support with suicidal men is currently limited. To highlight the need to address service delivery for men experiencing suicidal crisis, this perspective article identifies key challenges facing current telephone crisis support research and proposes that understanding of the role of telephone crisis helplines in supporting suicidal men may be strengthened by careful examination of the context of telephone crisis support, together with the impact this has on help-provision for male suicidal callers. In particular, the impact of the time- and information-poor context of telephone crisis support on crisis-line staff’s identification of, and response to, male callers with thoughts of suicide is examined. Future directions for research in the provision of telephone crisis support for suicidal men are discussed. PMID:29404319

Leukodystrophies with late disease onset: an update.

PubMed

Köhler, Wolfgang

2010-06-01

Knowledge of the metabolic and genetic basis of known and previously unknown leukodystrophies is constantly increasing, opening new treatment options such as enzyme replacement or cell-based therapies. This brief review highlights some recent work, particularly emphasizing results from studies in adulthood leukodystrophies. Evidence from recent studies suggests increasing importance of metabolic dysfunctions, for example, in peroxisomal lipid metabolism or energy homeostasis, influencing axonal integrity and oligodendrocyte function and leading to white matter demyelination. In addition, diagnostic and therapeutic progress in metachromatic leukodystrophy, X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, Krabbe diseases and other rare leukodystrophies with late onset are summarized. Better understanding of leukodystrophies in neurological routine practice is of crucial importance for differentiating between other white matter diseases such as toxic, inflammatory or vascular leukoencephalopathies. Many leukodystrophies are particularly important to recognize because specific treatments already exist or are currently under investigation. The article also provides an overview of currently known leukodystrophies in adulthood.

Pink-pigmented non-fermentative gram-negative rods associated with human infections: a clinical and diagnostic challenge.

PubMed

Hogue, R; Graves, M; Moler, S; Janda, J M

2007-06-01

Over the past several decades, the appearance of pink-pigmented bacteria in clinical specimens has gone from being a microbiologic curiosity in the clinical laboratory to the recognition of these aerobic microorganisms as etiologic agents of human disease, most notably bloodstream infections. Advances in the fields of molecular taxonomy and phylogenetics indicate that at least four distinct genera and eight different species are associated with clinical infections in susceptible patient populations. However, these bacteria are slow growing and present multiple diagnostic challenges to the microbiology laboratory including culture, isolation, and identification to species rank. This article provides a current review of these unusual non-fermentative chromogenic bacteria including their disease spectrum, taxonomy, and laboratory identification. The review also highlights the pitfalls or shortcomings we currently have in our knowledge of these microbes and their disease-producing capabilities.

Self-reports of meaning in life matter.

PubMed

Heintzelman, Samantha J; King, Laura A

2015-09-01

Replies to the comments made by Friedman (see record 2015-39598-012), Jeffery & Shackelford (see record 2015-39598-013), Brown & Wong (see record 2015-39598-014), Fowers & Lefevor (see record 2015-39598-015), Hill et al. (see record 2015-39598-016) on the current authors' original article, "Life is pretty meaningful," (see record 2014-03265-001). The current authors thank the comment authors for their efforts, and acknowledge their dedication to what is often a difficult and inscrutable construct, meaning in life. One lesson the current authors have learned from these reactions is that a review of self-report responses to items like "My life is purposeful and meaningful" cannot encompass the entirety of the meaning-in-life landscape. In this reply, the current authors reflect on aspects of the commentaries, highlighting what they can garner about meaning in life from the portion of it that is reflected in phenomenological experience and represented in self-reports: These are the data they have. The current authors first consider three methodological concerns that bear on whether these data are informative (at all) and then they consider more conceptual critiques. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Development process in Africa: Poverty, politics and indigenous knowledge

PubMed Central

Khupe, Watson; Mannan, Hasheem

2014-01-01

Background Persons with disability run the danger of not profiting from the development process due to exclusion from basic services and opportunities. Still, the knowledge base on exclusion mechanisms is relatively weak and there is a danger that important aspects are not addressed as they are hidden behind established understandings that are not critically scrutinised. Objectives The main purpose of this article was to highlight critical thoughts on prevailing knowledge of the relationship between disability and poverty, the policy base for addressing the rights of persons with disability, and culture as a key component in continued discrimination. Method This article aimed at integrating three papers on the above topics presented at the 2011 African Network for Evidence-to-Action on Disability (AfriNEAD) Symposium. The researchers have therefore thoroughly examined and questioned the relationship between disability and poverty, the influence of policy on action, and the role of culture in reproducing injustice. Results The article firstly claims that there are limitations in current data collection practice with regards to analysing the relationship between poverty and disability. Secondly, ambitions regarding inclusion of persons with disability in policy processes as well as in implementation of policies are not necessarily implemented in an optimal way. Thirdly, negative aspects of culture in discrimination and bad treatment of disabled need to be highlighted to balance the discussion on disability and culture. Conclusion A critical view of prevailing understandings of disability and development is key to producing the knowledge necessary to eradicate poverty amongst persons with disability and other vulnerable groups. Not only do we need research that is actually designed to reveal the mechanisms behind the disability–poverty relationship, we need research that is less tied up with broad political agreements that is not necessarily reflecting the realities at ground level. PMID:28730008

An integrative framework for sensor-based measurement of teamwork in healthcare.

PubMed

Rosen, Michael A; Dietz, Aaron S; Yang, Ting; Priebe, Carey E; Pronovost, Peter J

2015-01-01

There is a strong link between teamwork and patient safety. Emerging evidence supports the efficacy of teamwork improvement interventions. However, the availability of reliable, valid, and practical measurement tools and strategies is commonly cited as a barrier to long-term sustainment and spread of these teamwork interventions. This article describes the potential value of sensor-based technology as a methodology to measure and evaluate teamwork in healthcare. The article summarizes the teamwork literature within healthcare, including team improvement interventions and measurement. Current applications of sensor-based measurement of teamwork are reviewed to assess the feasibility of employing this approach in healthcare. The article concludes with a discussion highlighting current application needs and gaps and relevant analytical techniques to overcome the challenges to implementation. Compelling studies exist documenting the feasibility of capturing a broad array of team input, process, and output variables with sensor-based methods. Implications of this research are summarized in a framework for development of multi-method team performance measurement systems. Sensor-based measurement within healthcare can unobtrusively capture information related to social networks, conversational patterns, physical activity, and an array of other meaningful information without having to directly observe or periodically survey clinicians. However, trust and privacy concerns present challenges that need to be overcome through engagement of end users in healthcare. Initial evidence exists to support the feasibility of sensor-based measurement to drive feedback and learning across individual, team, unit, and organizational levels. Future research is needed to refine methods, technologies, theory, and analytical strategies. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Medical Informatics Association. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.comFor numbered affiliations see end of article.

Current status of postnatal depression smartphone applications available on application stores: an information quality analysis.

PubMed

Zhang, Melvyn Wb; Ho, Roger Cm; Loh, Alvona; Wing, Tracey; Wynne, Olivia; Chan, Sally Wai Chi; Car, Josip; Fung, Daniel Shuen Sheng

2017-11-14

It is the aim of the current research to identify some common functionalities of postnatal application, and to determine the quality of the information content of postnatal depression application using validated scales that have been applied for applications in other specialties. To determine the information quality of the postnatal depression smartphone applications, the two most widely used smartphone application stores, namely Apple iTunes as well as Google Android Play store, were searched between 20May and 31 May. No participants were involved. The inclusion criteria for the application were that it must have been searchable using the keywords 'postnatal', 'pregnancy', 'perinatal', 'postpartum' and 'depression', and must be in English language. The Silberg Scale was used in the assessment of the information quality of the smartphone applications. The information quality score was the primary outcome measure. Our current results highlighted that while there is currently a myriad of applications, only 14 applications are specifically focused on postnatal depression. In addition, the majority of the currently available applications on the store have only disclosed their last date of modification as well as ownership. There remain very limited disclosures about the information of the authors, as well as the references for the information included in the application itself. The average score for the Silberg Scale for the postnatal applications we have analysed is 3.0. There remains a need for healthcare professionals and developers to jointly conceptualise new applications with better information quality and evidence base. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Moving beyond Text Highlights: Inferring Users' Interests to Improve the Relevance of Retrieval

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Balakrishnan, Vimala; Mehmood, Yasir; Nagappan, Yoganathan

2016-01-01

Introduction: Studies have indicated that users' text highlighting behaviour can be further manipulated to improve the relevance of retrieved results. This article reports on a study that examined users' text highlight frequency, length and users' copy-paste actions. Method: A binary voting mechanism was employed to determine the weights for the…

Economic Education in an International Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watts, Michael; Walstad, William B.

2010-01-01

In this article, the authors explain the purpose and context for the 2009 International Symposium on Economic Education that was the source for articles on four nations with relatively developed systems for economic education: Australia, England, Japan, and Korea. The authors highlight several key comparisons from the four articles that appear in…

Psychoneuroimmunology and cancer: A decade of discovery, paradigm shifts, and methodological innovations

PubMed Central

McDonald, Paige Green; O’Connell, Mary; Lutgendorf, Susan K.

2013-01-01

This article introduces the supplemental issue of “Cancer, Brain, Behavior, and Immunity” and outlines important discoveries, paradigm shifts, and methodological innovations that have emerged in the past decade to advance mechanistic and translational understanding of biobehavioral influences on tumor biology, cancer treatment-related sequelae, and cancer outcomes. We offer a heuristic framework for research on biobehavioral pathways in cancer. The shifting survivorship landscape is highlighted and we propose that the changing demographics suggest prudent adoption of a life course perspective of cancer and cancer survivorship. We note opportunities for psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) research to ameliorate the long-term, unintended consequences of aggressive curative intent and call attention to the critical role of reciprocal translational pathways between animal and human studies. Lastly, we briefly summarize the articles included in this compilation and offer our perspectives on future research directions. HighlightsThis article introduces the National Cancer Institute sponsored special issue Cancer, Brain, Behavior, and Immunity and highlights the last decade of PNI-cancer research. PMID:23333846

Canine Companions and Helpers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McIntosh, Phyllis

2014-01-01

This feature article highlights dog breeds that are popular in the United States and explores the health benefits and services that dogs provide to people. The article also discusses dog shows and dogs in popular culture.

Platinum Publications, June 1–June 30, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, September 30–October 27, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, March 27 – April 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, September 26 – October 29, 2014 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, July 31–September 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, July 29–September 29, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, October 28–November 30, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, July 1–July 28, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Reflections on 50 Years of Neuroscience Nursing: Neuro-Oncology, Moving Forward by Looking Back.

PubMed

Reed, Marilyn E; Anthony, Patricia P; Rosenfeld, Priscilla B; Ligon, Brandi L; Doris, Estelle M; Fox, Sherry W

2018-06-01

During the past 50 years, there have been more than 100 articles published in the Journal of Neuroscience Nursing covering the topic of neuro-oncology. This article will explore the historical implications and milestones from these articles. The analysis highlights the scope and depth of the many articles as they relate to the advancements in neuro-oncology.

Platinum Publications, January 1–March 31, 2016 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, June 26–July 30, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Platinum Publications, May 1 – June 25, 2015 | Poster

Cancer.gov

Platinum Publications are selected from articles by NCI at Frederick scientists published in 42 prestigious science journals. This list represents articles published during the time period shown above, as generated from PubMed. Articles designated as Platinum Highlights are noteworthy articles selected by Dr. Craig Reynolds, associate director, National Cancer Institute, from among the most recently published Platinum Publications.

Innovative approaches to using new media and technology in health promotion for adolescents and young adults.

PubMed

Hyden, Christel; Cohall, Alwyn

2011-12-01

Over the past decade, new technology and media have changed the way we communicate, access information, and share content with one another. Most 12- to 17-year-olds now own cell phones, and most adolescents and young adults spend several hours per day on computers and cell phones. The American Academy of Pediatrics now encourages all pediatricians to increase their knowledge of new media and technology. This article details technology access among adolescents and young adults, highlights several current and potential innovative applications for new technology and social networking in health promotion, and discusses issues to consider as practitioners move toward integrating new media into clinical and health education settings.

Obesity Prevalence in Nepal: Public Health Challenges in a Low-Income Nation during an Alarming Worldwide Trend

PubMed Central

Vaidya, Abhinav; Shakya, Suraj; Krettek, Alexandra

2010-01-01

The future toll of the obesity epidemic will likely hit hardest in low- and middle-income countries. Ongoing urbanization promotes risk factors including sedentary lifestyle and fat- and sugar-laden diets. Low-income countries like Nepal experience a double disease burden: infectious diseases as well as rising incidence of noncommunicable diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus) frequently characterized by obesity. Nepal currently directs efforts towards curing disease but pays little attention to preventive actions. This article highlights obesity prevalence in Nepal, delineates the challenges identified by our pilot study (including low health literacy rates), and suggests strategies to overcome this trend. PMID:20644698

Nanotechnology and clean energy: sustainable utilization and supply of critical materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fromer, Neil A.; Diallo, Mamadou S.

2013-11-01

Advances in nanoscale science and engineering suggest that many of the current problems involving the sustainable utilization and supply of critical materials in clean and renewable energy technologies could be addressed using (i) nanostructured materials with enhanced electronic, optical, magnetic and catalytic properties and (ii) nanotechnology-based separation materials and systems that can recover critical materials from non-traditional sources including mine tailings, industrial wastewater and electronic wastes with minimum environmental impact. This article discusses the utilization of nanotechnology to improve or achieve materials sustainability for energy generation, conversion and storage. We highlight recent advances and discuss opportunities of utilizing nanotechnology to address materials sustainability for clean and renewable energy technologies.

Impact of gender on reactions to military sexual assault and harassment.

PubMed

Bell, Margret E; Turchik, Jessica A; Karpenko, Julie A

2014-02-01

Research has shown that experiences ofmilitary sexual assault and harassment can have a negative impact on veterans' health and functioning, even years or decades later, thus clearly identifying this as an important area of concern for social workers. In addition to understanding the scope and general impact of military sexual assault and harassment, social workers also must thoroughly understand how different cultural factors may intersect with veterans' experiences. To this end, this article reviews the current knowledge base on how veterans' life experiences related to gender can affect their experience of and recovery from military sexual assault and harassment, highlights common gender-specific issues, and discusses implications for practice.

Update on combat psychiatry: from the battle front to the home front and back again.

PubMed

Ritchie, Elspeth Cameron

2007-12-01

The U.S. military has long emphasized the principles of prevention and early intervention in preparing for and treating those afflicted by the psychological wounds of war. This article opens with lessons learned by the U.S. military through wartime during the past century. Current practice in the military's employment of stress control teams is reviewed. Updates in the military efforts in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom to prevent and to limit psychological casualties are stressed. Misconduct has occurred in this conflict; future steps to reduce aberrant behavior by soldiers are discussed. The challenges of reintegration at home, by both healthy and wounded soldiers, are highlighted.

An eye for discovery

PubMed Central

Stahl, Andreas; Smith, Lois E.H.

2010-01-01

Vision research has often led to significant advances in our understanding of biology. There has also been particular success in translating basic research in the eye into breakthrough clinical therapies that mark important milestones for ophthalmology and also for medical research. Anti-VEGF therapy for age-related macular degeneration was named as one of the top ten science advancements of the year 2006. Only two years later, successful transfer of the RPE65 gene into retinal pigment epithelium of patients with Leber congenital amaurosis was noted as one of the most important clinical applications of gene therapy. The articles in this Review series outline current developments in vision research and highlight its continued importance in ophthalmology and medicine. PMID:20811156

2015 Relaunch as Open Access Pediatric Neurology Briefs.

PubMed

Millichap, John J; Millichap, J Gordon

2015-01-01

Pediatric Neurology Briefs (PNB) has been published monthly since 1987 as a continuing education service designed to expedite and facilitate review of current medical literature concerning pediatric neurology. In 2015, PNB is relaunched as an open access, peer-reviewed, journal with an expanded editorial board. PNB has a new website and content management system capable of organizing peer-review and providing improved indexing, DOI assignment, and online full-text article view. Digitization of back issues, archiving, and inclusion in PubMed are future goals. The new online open access PNB aims to reach more physicians, researchers, and other healthcare providers with highlights of the latest advances in pediatric neurology and commentaries by specialists in the field.

Ketamine use in current clinical practice

PubMed Central

Gao, Mei; Rejaei, Damoon; Liu, Hong

2016-01-01

After nearly half a century on the market, ketamine still occupies a unique corner in the medical armamentarium of anesthesiologists or clinicians treating pain. Over the last two decades, much research has been conducted highlighting the drug's mechanisms of action, specifically those of its enantiomers. Nowadays, ketamine is also being utilized for pediatric pain control in emergency department, with its anti-hyperalgesic and anti-inflammatory effects being revealed in acute and chronic pain management. Recently, new insights have been gained on ketamine's potential anti-depressive and antisuicidal effects. This article provides an overview of the drug's pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics while also discussing the potential benefits and risks of ketamine administration in various clinical settings. PMID:27018176

From bench to patient: model systems in drug discovery

PubMed Central

Breyer, Matthew D.; Look, A. Thomas; Cifra, Alessandra

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT Model systems, including laboratory animals, microorganisms, and cell- and tissue-based systems, are central to the discovery and development of new and better drugs for the treatment of human disease. In this issue, Disease Models & Mechanisms launches a Special Collection that illustrates the contribution of model systems to drug discovery and optimisation across multiple disease areas. This collection includes reviews, Editorials, interviews with leading scientists with a foot in both academia and industry, and original research articles reporting new and important insights into disease therapeutics. This Editorial provides a summary of the collection's current contents, highlighting the impact of multiple model systems in moving new discoveries from the laboratory bench to the patients' bedsides. PMID:26438689

Obesity prevalence in Nepal: public health challenges in a low-income nation during an alarming worldwide trend.

PubMed

Vaidya, Abhinav; Shakya, Suraj; Krettek, Alexandra

2010-06-01

The future toll of the obesity epidemic will likely hit hardest in low- and middle-income countries. Ongoing urbanization promotes risk factors including sedentary lifestyle and fat- and sugar-laden diets. Low-income countries like Nepal experience a double disease burden: infectious diseases as well as rising incidence of noncommunicable diseases (e.g., cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus) frequently characterized by obesity. Nepal currently directs efforts towards curing disease but pays little attention to preventive actions. This article highlights obesity prevalence in Nepal, delineates the challenges identified by our pilot study (including low health literacy rates), and suggests strategies to overcome this trend.

Fructose use in clinical nutrition: metabolic effects and potential consequences.

PubMed

Moulin, Sandra; Seematter, Gérald; Seyssel, Kevin

2017-07-01

The current article presents recent findings on the metabolic effects of fructose. Fructose has always been considered as a simple 'caloric' hexose only metabolized by splanchnic tissues. Nevertheless, there is growing evidence that fructose acts as a second messenger and induces effects throughout the human body. Recent discoveries made possible with the evolution of technology have highlighted that fructose induces pleiotropic effects on different tissues. The fact that all these tissues express the specific fructose carrier GLUT5 let us reconsider that fructose is not only a caloric hexose, but could also be a potential actor of some behaviors and metabolic pathways. The physiological relevance of fructose as a metabolic driver is pertinent regarding recent scientific literature.

Biophysical Technologies for Management of Wound Bioburden

PubMed Central

Korzendorfer, Holly; Hettrick, Heather

2014-01-01

Significance: Chronic wounds commonly have high levels of bioburden and antibiotic-resistant pathogens. This review article focuses on findings from current literature related to four biophysical technologies (ultrasound, electrical stimulation, phototherapy, and negative pressure wound therapy) believed to be beneficial for managing wound bioburden and support healing. Recent Advances and Critical Issues: Recent advances for each modality are provided as a basic synopsis of the technology followed by brief overviews of the most recent literature addressing its effectiveness for managing wound bioburden, and critical issues for each modality are provided as conclusions. Future Directions: This review highlights the need for further clinically relevant studies examining bacterial levels in addition to healing progression for each technology. PMID:25493207

Brake mechanics, asbestos, and disease risk.

PubMed

Huncharek, M

1990-09-01

Health risks posed by inhalable asbestos fibers are known to exist in a variety of industrial and nonindustrial settings. Although early studies described an increased risk of asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma in asbestos-industry workers, subsequent research revealed the existence of a potential asbestos-related health hazard in nonasbestos industries such as the textile and railroad industries. Brake mechanics and garage workers constitute a large work force with potential exposures to levels of asbestos capable of producing disease. Unfortunately, the health risk faced by these workers has received little attention. This article briefly discusses currently available information on the asbestos health risks of workers in this setting, and highlights the need for further investigations of this occupational group.