Sample records for quadratus lumborum ql

  1. Quadratus lumborum asymmetry and lumbar spine injury in cricket fast bowlers.

    PubMed

    Kountouris, Alex; Portus, Marc; Cook, Jill

    2012-09-01

    Previous studies have demonstrated quadratus lumborum asymmetry in cricket fast bowlers, but there has been conflicting evidence regarding the relationship to lumbar spine injury, particularly vertebral bone stress injuries. This study investigated the relationship between quadratus lumborum asymmetry and lumbar spine injury in adolescent cricket fast bowlers. The study was a prospective cohort design. Magnetic resonance imaging of 38 adolescent cricket fast bowlers was completed prior to a cricket season, and the cross sectional area of the quadratus lumborum muscle was measured at each lumbar spinal level. The bowlers were followed through the cricket season and those that reported lumbar spine injuries were investigated and classified as either having a soft tissue injury or a bone stress injury. The pre-season cross sectional area of quadratus lumborum was associated with injury status at the conclusion of the cricket season. Twenty-one percent of the cohort developed lumbar bone stress injuries during the cricket season. There was no significant relationship between lumbar spine injury and quadratus lumborum cross sectional area. A high incidence of lumbar bone stress injuries was demonstrated in adolescent fast bowlers. Unlike previous research that demonstrated a link between lumbar spine bone stress injuries and quadratus lumborum cross-sectional area, no such relationship was found. Copyright © 2012 Sports Medicine Australia. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Novel use of combination of electromyography and ultrasound to guide quadratus lumborum block after open appendicectomy.

    PubMed

    Mullins, Cormac F; O'Brien, Conor; O'Connor, Therese C

    2017-05-15

    The quadratus lumborum (QL) block facilitates the administration of anaesthesia to the anterior abdominal wall. The use of ultrasound (US) improves the accuracy of the QL block and reduces the risk of adverse events. Electromyography (EMG) in combination with US for muscle plane blocks has not been described previously. We postulated that the addition of EMG-guided needle positioning might assist the execution of this block. This case report describes the first use of combined needle EMG and US to carry out a QL block performed for postoperative analgesia following an open appendicectomy. © BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  3. Quadratus lumborum catheters for breast reconstruction requiring transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flaps.

    PubMed

    Spence, Nicole Z; Olszynski, Patrycja; Lehan, Anne; Horn, Jean-Lois; Webb, Christopher A J

    2016-06-01

    Patients diagnosed with breast cancer may opt to undergo surgical reconstructive flaps at the time of or after mastectomies. These surgeries leave patients with significant postoperative pain and sometimes involve large surgical beds including graft sites from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast. Consequently, multimodal methods of pain management have become highly favored. Quadratus lumborum catheters offer an opioid-sparing technique that can be performed easily and safely. We present a case of a patient who underwent a breast flap reconstruction and had bilateral quadratus lumborum catheters placed for perioperative pain control.

  4. Quadratus Lumborum Block Versus Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Postoperative Pain After Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Blanco, Rafael; Ansari, Tarek; Riad, Waleed; Shetty, Nanda

    Effective postoperative analgesia after cesarean delivery enhances early recovery, ambulation, and breastfeeding. In a previous study, we established the effectiveness of the quadratus lumborum block in providing pain relief after cesarean delivery compared with patient-controlled analgesia (morphine). In the current study, we hypothesized that this method would be equal to or better than the transversus abdominis plane block with regard to pain relief and its duration of action after cesarean delivery. Between April 2015 and August 2015, we randomized 76 patients scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia to receive the quadratus lumborum block or the transversus abdominis plane block for postoperative pain relief. This trial was registered prospectively (NCT 02489851) [corrected]. Patients in the quadratus lumborum block group used significantly less morphine than the transversus abdominis plane block group (P < 0.05) at 12, 24, and 48 hours but not at 4 and 6 hours after cesarean delivery. This group also had significantly fewer morphine demands than the control group (P < 0.05) at 6, 12, 24, and 48 hours after cesarean delivery. No significant differences in visual analog scale results were shown between the 2 groups at rest or with movement. Calculated total pain relief at rest and with movement were similar (P < 0.001) in both groups. The quadratus lumborum block was more effective in reducing morphine consumption and demands than transversus abdominis plane blocks after cesarean section. This effect was observed up to 48 hours postoperatively.

  5. The hypertrophy of the lateral abdominal wall and quadratus lumborum is sport-specific: an MRI segmental study in professional tennis and soccer players.

    PubMed

    Sanchis-Moysi, Joaquin; Idoate, Fernando; Izquierdo, Mikel; Calbet, Jose A; Dorado, Cecilia

    2013-03-01

    The aim was to determine the volume and degree of asymmetry of quadratus lumborum (QL), obliques, and transversus abdominis; the last two considered conjointly (OT), in tennis and soccer players. The volume of QL and OT was determined using magnetic resonance imaging in professional tennis and soccer players, and in non-active controls (n = 8, 14, and 6, respectively). In tennis players the hypertrophy of OT was limited to proximal segments (cephalic segments), while in soccer players it was similar along longitudinal axis. In tennis players the hypertrophy was asymmetric (18% greater volume in the non-dominant than in the dominant OT, p = 0.001), while in soccer players and controls both sides had similar volumes (p > 0.05). In controls, the non-dominant QL was 15% greater than that of the dominant (p = 0.049). Tennis and soccer players had similar volumes in both sides of QL. Tennis alters the dominant-to-non-dominant balance in the muscle volume of the lateral abdominal wall. In tennis the hypertrophy is limited to proximal segments and is greater in the non-dominant side. Soccer, however, is associated to a symmetric hypertrophy of the lateral abdominal wall. Tennis and soccer elicit an asymmetric hypertrophy of QL.

  6. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Versus Trigger Point Injection in the Treatment of Myofascial Pain Syndrome in the Quadratus Lumborum

    PubMed Central

    2017-01-01

    Objective To compare the effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) and trigger point injection (TPI) for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome in the quadratus lumborum. Methods In a retrospective study at our institute, 30 patients with myofascial pain syndrome in the quadratus lumborum were assigned to ESWT or TPI groups. We assessed ESWT and TPI treatment according to their affects on pain relief and disability improvement. The outcome measures for the pain assessment were a visual analogue scale score and pain pressure threshold. The outcome measures for the disability assessment were Oswestry Disability Index, Roles and Maudsley, and Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale scores. Results Both groups demonstrated statistically significant improvements in pain and disability measures after treatment. However, in comparing the treatments, we found ESWT to be more effective than TPI for pain relief. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups with respect to disability. Conclusion Compared to TPI, ESWT showed superior results for pain relief. Thus, we consider ESWT as an effective treatment for myofascial pain syndrome in the quadratus lumborum. PMID:28971042

  7. Changes in regional activity of the psoas major and quadratus lumborum with voluntary trunk and hip tasks and different spinal curvatures in sitting.

    PubMed

    Park, Rachel J; Tsao, Henry; Claus, Andrew; Cresswell, Andrew G; Hodges, Paul W

    2013-02-01

    Cross-sectional controlled laboratory study. To investigate the function of discrete regions of psoas major (PM) and quadratus lumborum (QL) with changes in spinal curvature and hip position. Anatomically discrete regions of PM and QL may have differential function on the lumbar spine, based on anatomical and biomechanical differences in their moment arms between fascicles within each muscle. Fine-wire electrodes were inserted with ultrasound guidance into PM fascicles arising from the transverse process (PM-t) and vertebral body (PM-v) and anterior (QL-a) and posterior (QL-p) layers of QL. Recordings were made on 9 healthy participants, who performed 7 tasks with maximal voluntary efforts and adopted 3 sitting postures that involved different spinal curvatures and hip angles. Activity of PM-t was greater during trunk extension than flexion, whereas activity of PM-v was greater during hip flexion than trunk efforts. Activity of QL-p was greater during trunk extension and lateral flexion, whereas QL-a showed greater activity during lateral flexion. During sitting tasks, PM-t was more active when sitting with a short lordosis than a flat (less extended) lumbar spine posture, whereas PM-v was similarly active in both sitting postures. Activity of PM-t was more affected by changes in position of the lumbar spine than the hip, whereas PM-v was more actively involved in the movement of the hip rather than that of the lumbar spine. Moreover, from its anatomy, PM-t has a combined potential to extend/lordose the lumbar spine and flex the hip, at least in a flexed-hip position.

  8. Effects of the pelvic compression belt on gluteus medius, quadratus lumborum, and lumbar multifidus activities during side-lying hip abduction.

    PubMed

    Park, Kyung-Mi; Kim, Suhn-Yeop; Oh, Duck-Won

    2010-12-01

    The aims of this study were to assess the effect of the pelvic compression belt on the electromyographic (EMG) activities of gluteus medius (GM), quadratus lumborum (QL), and lumbar multifidus (LM) during side-lying hip abduction. Thirty-one volunteers (15 men and 16 women) with no history of pathology volunteered for this study. Subjects were instructed to perform hip abduction in side-lying position with and without applying the pelvic compression belt. The pelvic compression belt was adjusted just below the anterior superior iliac spines with the stabilizing pressure using elastic compression bands. Surface EMG data were collected from the GM, QL, and LM of the dominant limb. Significantly decreased EMG activity in the QL (without the pelvic compression belt, 60.19±23.66% maximal voluntary isometric contraction [MVIC]; with the pelvic compression belt, 51.44±23.00% MVIC) and significantly increased EMG activity in the GM (without the pelvic compression belt, 26.71±12.88% MVIC; with the pelvic compression belt, 35.02±18.28% MVIC) and in the LM (without the pelvic compression belt, 30.28±14.60% MVIC; with the pelvic compression belt, 37.47±18.94% MVIC) were found when the pelvic compression belt was applied (p<0.05). However, there were no significant differences of the EMG activity between male and female subjects. The findings suggest that the pelvic compression belt may be helpful to prevent unwanted substitution movement during side-lying hip abduction, through increasing the GM and LM and decreasing the QL. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Recruitment of discrete regions of the psoas major and quadratus lumborum muscles is changed in specific sitting postures in individuals with recurrent low back pain.

    PubMed

    Park, Rachel J; Tsao, Henry; Claus, Andrew; Cresswell, Andrew G; Hodges, Paul W

    2013-11-01

    Cross-sectional controlled laboratory study. To investigate potential changes in the function of discrete regions of the psoas major (PM) and quadratus lumborum (QL) with changes in spinal curvatures and hip positions in sitting, in people with recurrent low back pain (LBP). Although the PM and QL contribute to control of spinal curvature in sitting, whether activity of these muscles is changed in individuals with LBP is unknown. Ten volunteers with recurrent LBP (pain free at the time of testing) and 9 pain-free individuals in a comparison group participated. Participants with LBP were grouped into those with high and low erector spinae (ES) electromyographic (EMG) signal amplitude, recorded when sitting with a lumbar lordosis. Data were recorded as participants assumed 3 sitting postures. Fine-wire electrodes were inserted with ultrasound guidance into fascicles of the PM arising from the transverse process and vertebral body, and the anterior and posterior layers of the QL. When data from those with recurrent LBP were analyzed as 1 group, PM and QL EMG signal amplitudes did not differ between groups in any of the sitting postures. However, when subgrouped, those with low ES EMG had greater EMG signal amplitude of the PM vertebral body and QL posterior layer in flat posture and greater EMG signal amplitude of the QL posterior layer in short lordotic posture, compared to those in the pain-free group. For the group with high ES EMG, the PM transverse process and PM vertebral body EMG was less than that of the other LBP group in short lordotic posture. The findings suggest a redistribution of activity between muscles that have a potential extensor moment in individuals with LBP. The modification of EMG of discrete fascicles of the PM and QL was related to changes in ES EMG signal amplitude recorded in sitting.

  10. Spread of Quadratus Lumborum Block to the Paravertebral Space Via Intramuscular Injection: A Volunteer Study.

    PubMed

    Tamura, Takahiro; Kitamura, Kana; Yokota, Shuichi; Ito, Shigeki; Shibata, Yasuyuki; Nishiwaki, Kimitoshi

    2018-05-01

    Several types of quadratus lumborum block (QLB) are used for postoperative analgesia and are believed to be effective against both somatic and visceral pain via a local anesthetic (LA) effect in the paravertebral space (PVS). However, it remains unclear whether all QLB techniques result in LA spread into the PVS. We hypothesized that LA administered via intramuscular QLB would spread into the paravertebral space and investigated the spread and sensory block area of LA in intramuscular QLB. This volunteer study included 5 healthy men and 1 woman, with no previous medical history. Intramuscular QLB and lateral transversus abdominis plane block were performed under real-time ultrasound guidance for comparison of sensory deprivation range. Two days later, the same procedure was performed on the contralateral side of the body. The spread of LA via intramuscular QLB spread to the PVS was assessed 1 hour after the first injections using magnetic resonance imaging. Sensory perception was also evaluated by the pinprick test at 90 minutes after injection. In total, we performed 11 intramuscular QLBs and 11 lateral transversus abdominis plane blocks. Magnetic resonance imaging showed that LA did not spread into the PVS after ultrasound-guided intramuscular QLB. The analgesic area corresponded to the side of the body that was ipsilateral to the block. Ultrasound-guided intramuscular QLBs are not clinically useful for procedures requiring LA spread into the PVS but do result in an ipsilateral analgesic effect in healthy volunteers. This study was registered at University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry, UMIN 000019149.

  11. Ultrasound-guided posterior quadratus lumborum block for postoperative pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy: A randomized controlled double blind study.

    PubMed

    Ökmen, Korgün; Metin Ökmen, Burcu; Topal, Serra

    2018-06-18

    Laparoscopic techniques are commonly used in surgical operations of the gallbladder. There are very few regional anesthesia methods used to achieve this goal. We aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasound-guided posterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB), administered bilaterally on pain scores after laparoscopic cholecystectomy operations. Prospective, double blind, randomized controlled clinical trial. Single-institution, tertiary hospital. 60 patients underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy were included in the study. Patients were randomized to either Group B (intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV PCA) + posterior QLB with 0.3 ml/kg 0.25% bupivacaine; n = 30) or Group S (IV PCA + posterior QLB with 0.3 ml/kg 0,9% saline; n = 30). Postoperative pain (during rest) was evaluated at the 30th minute, 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 24th hours using the VAS scores. Postoperative activity pain was also evaluated with VAS at the 2nd, 6th, 12th, and 24th hours. Postoperative 6th, 12th, and 24th hour follow-up results were recorded to identify the quantity of tramadol use. Secondary outcomes included the Ramsey sedation scale (RSS), side effect profile, and additional analgesic use. The VAS scores between the two groups were found to be statistically significantly lower in Group B (p < 0.001). The mean values of the quantity of tramadol use at the 6th, 12th, and 24th hours were found to be statistically significantly lower in Group B (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the rate of side effects (p = 0.309) and RSS (p = 0.505) outcomes between the groups. As a result of this study, we think that posterior QLB administered for pain palliation after laparoscopic cholecystectomy operation is an effective analgesia technique. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  12. The HEAR-QL: quality of life questionnaire for children with hearing loss.

    PubMed

    Umansky, Amy M; Jeffe, Donna B; Lieu, Judith E C

    2011-01-01

    Few quality of life (QOL) assessment tools are available for children with specific chronic conditions, and none have been designed specifically for children with hearing loss (HL). A validated hearing-related QOL questionnaire could help clinicians determine whether an intervention is beneficial and whether one intervention is better than another. To examine QOL in children with HL and assess the validity, reliability, and factor structure of a new measure, the Hearing Environments and Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR-QL) questionnaire. A descriptive and correlational study of a convenience sample of children. Participants included 35 children with unilateral HL, 45 with bilateral HL, and 35 siblings with normal hearing. Children 7-12 yr old were recruited by mail from a tertiary-care pediatric otolaryngology practice and the local county's Special School District. With parent consent, children completed the validated Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL) 4.0 and a 35-item HEAR-QL questionnaire. The factor structure of the HEAR-QL was determined through principal components analysis (PCA), and mean scores were computed for each subscale and the total HEAR-QL. Three weeks following the return of the initial questionnaires, a second HEAR-QL questionnaire was sent to participants to assess test-retest reliability. Both PedsQL and HEAR-QL scores were compared between children with and without HL, between children with unilateral and bilateral HL, and between children who used and did not use a hearing device using analysis of variance. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for both the HEAR-QL and the PedsQL. A multivariable, hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted with independent variables associated with the HEAR-QL in unadjusted tests. Using exploratory PCA, the 35-item HEAR-QL was reduced to 26 items (Cronbach's α = 0.97, sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 92% at a cutoff score of 93.5) loading on three factors: difficulty

  13. The HEAR-QL: Quality of Life Questionnaire for Children with Hearing Loss

    PubMed Central

    Umansky, Amy M.; Jeffe, Donna B.; Lieu, Judith E.C.

    2012-01-01

    Background Few quality of life (QOL) assessment tools are available for children with specific chronic conditions, and none have been designed specifically for children with hearing loss (HL). A validated hearing-related QOL questionnaire could help clinicians determine whether an intervention is beneficial and whether one intervention is better than another. Purpose To examine QOL in children with HL and assess the validity, reliability, and factor structure of a new measure, the Hearing Environments and Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR-QL) questionnaire. Research Design A descriptive and correlational study of a convenience sample of children. Study Sample Participants included 35 children with unilateral HL, 45 with bilateral HL, and 35 siblings with normal hearing. Data Collection and Analysis Children 7-12 years old were recruited by mail from a tertiary-care pediatric otolaryngology practice and the local county's Special School District. With parent consent, children completed the validated Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL™) 4.0 and a 35-item HEAR-QL questionnaire. The factor structure of the HEAR-QL was determined through principal components analysis (PCA), and mean scores were computed for each subscale and the total HEAR-QL. Three weeks following return of the initial questionnaires, a second HEAR-QL questionnaire was sent to participants to assess test-retest reliability. Both PedsQL and HEAR-QL scores were compared between children with and without HL, between children with unilateral and bilateral HL, and between children who used and did not use a hearing device using analysis of variance. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for both the HEAR-QL and PedsQL. A multivariable, hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted with independent variables associated with HEAR-QL in unadjusted tests. Results Using exploratory PCA, the 35-item HEAR-QL was reduced to 26 items (Cronbach's α=0.97; sensitivity 91% and specificity

  14. Size and symmetry of trunk muscles in ballet dancers with and without low back pain.

    PubMed

    Gildea, Jan E; Hides, Julie A; Hodges, Paul W

    2013-08-01

    Cross-sectional, observational study. To investigate the cross-sectional area (CSA) of trunk muscles in professional ballet dancers with and without low back pain (LBP). LBP is the most prevalent chronic injury in classical ballet dancers. Research on nondancers has found changes in trunk muscle size and symmetry to be associated with LBP. There are no studies that examine these changes in ballet dancers. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed in 14 male and 17 female dancers. The CSAs of 4 muscles (multifidus, lumbar erector spinae, psoas, and quadratus lumborum) were measured and compared among 3 groups of dancers: those without LBP or hip pain (n = 8), those with LBP only (n = 13), and those with both hip-region pain and LBP (n = 10). Dancers with no pain had larger multifidus muscles compared to those with LBP at L3-5 (P<.024) and those with both hip-region pain and LBP at L3 and L4 on the right side (P<.027). Multifidus CSA was larger on the left side at L4 and L5 in dancers with hip-region pain and LBP compared to those with LBP only (P<.033). Changes in CSA were not related to the side of pain (all, P>.05). The CSAs of the other muscles did not differ between groups. The psoas (P<.0001) and quadratus lumborum (P<.01) muscles were larger in male dancers compared to female dancers. There was a positive correlation between the size of the psoas muscles and the number of years of professional dancing (P = .03). In classical ballet dancers, LBP and hip-region pain and LBP are associated with a smaller CSA of the multifidus but not the erector spinae, psoas, or quadratus lumborum muscles.

  15. Dry season distribution of land crabs, Gecarcinus quadratus (Crustacea: Gecarcinidae), in Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica.

    PubMed

    Griffiths, Megan E; Mohammad, Basma A; Vega, Andres

    2007-03-01

    The land crab Gecarcinus quadratus is an engineering species that controls nutrient cycling in tropical forests. Factors regulating their coastal distribution are not fully understood. We quantified land crab distribution during the dry season at Sirena Field Station in Corcovado National Park, Costa Rica, and found that land crab burrow density decreases with increasing distance from the ocean. Leaf litter depth and tree seedling density are negatively correlated with land crab burrow density. Burrows are strongly associated with sand substrate and burrow density is comparatively low in clay substrate. Results suggest that G. quadratus is limited to a narrow coastal zone with sand substrate, and this distribution could have profound effects on plant community structure.

  16. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in pediatric rheumatology: reliability and validity.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Burwinkle, Tasha M; Szer, Ilona S

    2004-12-01

    . The PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) is a modular instrument designed to measure health related quality of life (HRQOL) in children and adolescents ages 2-18 years. The recently developed 18-item PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was designed to measure fatigue in pediatric patients and comprises the General Fatigue Scale (6 items), Sleep/Rest Fatigue Scale (6 items), and Cognitive Fatigue Scale (6 items). The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were developed as the generic core measure to be integrated with the PedsQL Disease-Specific Modules. The PedsQL 3.0 Rheumatology Module was designed to measure pediatric rheumatology-specific HRQOL. Methods. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, Generic Core Scales, and Rheumatology Module were administered to 163 children and 154 parents (183 families accrued overall) recruited from a pediatric rheumatology clinic. Results. Internal consistency reliability for the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale Total Score (a = 0.95 child, 0.95 parent report), General Fatigue Scale (a = 0.93 child, 0.92 parent), Sleep/Rest Fatigue Scale (a = 0.88 child, 0.90 parent), and Cognitive Fatigue Scale (a = 0.93 child, 0.96 parent) were excellent for group and individual comparisons. The validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was confirmed through hypothesized intercorrelations with dimensions of generic and rheumatology-specific HRQOL. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale distinguished between healthy children and children with rheumatic diseases as a group, and was associated with greater disease severity. Children with fibromyalgia manifested greater fatigue than children with other rheumatic diseases. The results confirm the initial reliability and validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in pediatric rheumatology.

  17. Is meat quality from Longissimus lumborum samples correlated with other cuts in horse meat?

    PubMed

    De Palo, Pasquale; Maggiolino, Aristide; Centoducati, Pasquale; Milella, Paola; Calzaretti, Giovanna; Tateo, Alessandra

    2016-03-01

    The present work aims to investigate if the variation of each parameter in Longissimus lumborum muscle could correspond to the same or to a similar variation of the parameter in the other muscles. The work presents results of Pearson's correlations between Longissimus lumborum samples and other muscle samples, such as Biceps femoris, Rectus femoris, Semimembranosus, Supraspinatus and Semitendinosus in horse meat. A total of 27 male IHDH (Italian Heavy Draught Horse) breed foals were employed. They were slaughtered at 11 months of age and the above-mentioned muscles were sampled. The Longissimus lumborum muscle showed to be representative of other muscles and of the whole carcass for some chemical parameters (moisture, protein and ash) and for some fatty acids profile patterns such as C12:0, C14:0, total monounsaturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid, but poor correlations were recorded for intramuscular fat concentration, rheological and colorimetric parameters. Although almost all the qualitative parameters in meat are affected by the anatomical site and by the muscle, the Longissimus lumborum is often not representative in horse meat with regard to modifications of this parameters. © 2015 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

  18. PedsQL correlates to PODCI in pediatric orthopaedic outpatient clinic.

    PubMed

    Mahan, Susan T; Kalish, Leslie A; Connell, Patricia L; Harris, Marie; Abdul-Rahim, Zainab; Waters, Peter

    2014-09-01

    Quality-of-life (QOL) measures can be a valuable tool to assess the general welfare across a spectrum of patients in a pediatric orthopaedic outpatient clinic and can be a simple way to assess patient-based outcomes particularly for quality initiatives. The Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument (PODCI) is validated for many orthopaedic conditions but typically takes around 20 minutes to complete (86 questions). The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) takes <4 minutes to complete (23 questions) but has not been assessed in an orthopaedic setting. We initiated this study to find the best method for assessing QOL in our outpatient clinic. A short pediatric QOL measure that is correlated to an established orthopaedic-specific QOL measure is needed; therefore, we compared the PedsQL to the PODCI in the outpatient orthopaedic clinic. This was a quality initiative project and as such did not require a priori IRB approval. Families of patients 2 to 18 years old who presented for follow-up after upper or lower extremity fractures or brachial plexus injuries in the orthopaedic clinic from October 2010 through August 2011 were asked to fill out both the PODCI and the PedsQL. Patients aged 5 years and older filled out a patient-report PedsQL; patients aged 11 years and older filled out the patient-report PODCI. Parents/guardians completed questionnaires for children of all ages. Most fracture patients (and/or their parent/guardian) repeated the questionnaires after 6 to 12 weeks. Data were then assessed for correlation between the PODCI and PedsQL. A total of 428 parent/guardian reports for 283 patients and 172 self-reports for 104 patients were included. The correlation between the PODCI Global score and the PedsQL Total score for the parent/guardian-reported questionnaires for all injuries was 0.77 (95% confidence interval, 0.72-0.82). When categorized within domains and injuries, parent/guardian-reported correlations ranged from 0.23 to 0.79. In patients

  19. Correlation of ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection of the quadratus femoris with MRI findings of ischiofemoral impingement.

    PubMed

    Backer, Matthew W; Lee, Kenneth S; Blankenbaker, Donna G; Kijowski, Richard; Keene, James S

    2014-09-01

    MRI findings of ischiofemoral impingement (IFI) have been described, but there is little evidence for treatment with ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection of the quadratus femoris muscle as a treatment of IFI syndrome and to correlate the MRI findings with injection outcome. The medical records of 61 consecutively registered subjects who underwent bony pelvis MRI in which either IFI or quadratus femoris edema was described in the radiology report were retrospectively reviewed. Subjects with MRI findings of IFI and clinical confirmation of pain that could be attributed to IFI were included and divided into injection and control groups based on clinical management. Control subjects had MRI findings and clinical symptoms suggestive of IFI but underwent conservative therapy rather than injection. The control patients had adequate follow-up and clinical documentation to determine their response to treatment. Quadratus femoris muscle edema, fat atrophy, and hamstring tendinopathy were graded from none to severe (grades 0-3). The ischiofemoral and quadratus femoris spaces were also measured. Clinical presentation was classified as typical, somewhat typical, or not typical of IFI. Injection effectiveness was determined by reported pain reduction assessed before, immediately after, and 2 weeks after the procedure with a standard 10-cm visual analog scale. Response to treatment was classified as good (reduction in pain level > 2), mild or partial (reduced by 1 or 2), or no improvement. For patients who did not return their 2-week postinjection pain surveys, injection effectiveness was determined by qualitative assessments found in their clinical notes. A Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test was used to compare effectiveness of injection between groups (p < 0.05). The Fisher exact test was used to evaluate for associations between each MRI finding and injection outcome. Of

  20. The PedsQL multidimensional fatigue scale in pediatric obesity: feasibility, reliability and validity.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Bryant, William P; Wilson, Don P

    2010-01-01

    The PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) is a modular instrument designed to measure health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and disease-specific symptoms in children and adolescents. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was designed as a child self-report and parent proxy-report generic symptom-specific instrument to measure fatigue in pediatric patients. The objective of the present study was to determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in pediatric obesity. The 18-item PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (General Fatigue, Sleep/Rest Fatigue, and Cognitive Fatigue domains) and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were completed by 41 pediatric patients with a physician-diagnosis of obesity and 43 parents from a hospital-based Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale evidenced minimal missing responses (1.6%, child report; 0.5%, parent report), achieved excellent reliability for the Total Fatigue Scale Score (alpha = 0.90 child report, 0.90 parent report), distinguished between pediatric patients with obesity and healthy children, and was significantly correlated with the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales supporting construct validity. Pediatric patients with obesity experienced fatigue comparable with pediatric patients receiving cancer treatment, demonstrating the relative severity of their fatigue symptoms. The results demonstrate the measurement properties of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in pediatric obesity. The findings suggest that the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale may be utilized in the standardized evaluation of fatigue in pediatric patients with obesity.

  1. Intramuscular architecture of the autochthonous back muscles in humans

    PubMed Central

    Stark, Heiko; Fröber, Rosemarie; Schilling, Nadja

    2013-01-01

    Many training concepts take muscle properties such as contraction speed or muscle topography into account to achieve an optimal training outcome. Thus far, the internal architecture of muscles has largely been neglected, although it is well known that parameters such as pennation angles or the lengths of fascicles but also the proportions of fleshy and tendinous fascicle parts have a major impact on the contraction behaviour of a muscle. Here, we present the most detailed description of the intramuscular fascicle architecture of the human perivertebral muscles available so far. For this, one adult male cadaver was studied. Our general approach was to digitize the geometry of each fascicle of the muscles of back proper (Erector spinae) – the Spinalis thoracis, Iliocostalis lumborum, Longissimus thoracis and the Multifidus thoracis et lumborum – and of the deep muscles of the abdomen – Psoas minor, Psoas major and Quadratus lumborum – during a layerwise dissection. Architectural parameters such as fascicle angles to the sagittal and the frontal planes as well as fascicle lengths were determined for each fascicle, and are discussed regarding their consequences for the function of the muscle. For example, compared with the other dorsovertebral muscles, the Longissimus thoracis can produce greater shortening distances because of its relatively long fleshy portions, and it can store more elastic energy due to both its relatively long fleshy and tendinous fascicle portions. The Quadratus lumborum was outstanding because of its many architectural subunits defined by distinct attachment sites and fascicle lengths. The presented database will improve biomechanical models of the human trunk by allowing the incorporation of anisotropic muscle properties such as the fascicle direction into finite element models. This information will help to increase our understanding of the functionality of the human back musculature, and may thereby improve future training concepts

  2. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in type 1 diabetes: feasibility, reliability, and validity.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Bryant, William P; Wilson, Don P

    2009-08-01

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL, Mapi Research Trust, Lyon, France; www.pedsql.org) is a modular instrument designed to measure health-related quality of life and disease-specific symptoms in children and adolescents. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was designed as a child self-report and parent proxy-report generic symptom-specific instrument to measure fatigue in pediatric patients. The objective of the present study was to determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in type 1 diabetes. The 18-item PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (General Fatigue, Sleep/Rest Fatigue, and Cognitive Fatigue domains) and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were administered to 83 pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes and 84 parents. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale evidenced minimal missing responses (0.3% child report and 0.3% parent report), achieved excellent reliability for the Total Fatigue Scale score (alpha= 0.92 child report, 0.94 parent report), distinguished between pediatric patients with diabetes and healthy children, and was significantly correlated with the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales supporting construct validity. Pediatric patients with diabetes experienced fatigue that was comparable to pediatric patients with cancer on treatment, demonstrating the relative severity of their fatigue symptoms. The results demonstrate the measurement properties of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in type 1 diabetes. The findings suggest that the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale may be utilized in the standardized evaluation of fatigue in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes.

  3. Validity, Discriminative Ability and Reliability of the Hearing-Related Quality of Life (HEAR-QL) Questionnaire for Adolescents

    PubMed Central

    Rachakonda, Tara; Jeffe, Donna B.; Shin, Jennifer J.; Mankarious, Leila; Fanning, Robert J.; Lesperance, Marci M.; Lieu, Judith E.C.

    2014-01-01

    Objectives The prevalence of hearing loss (HL) in adolescents has grown over the past decade, but hearing-related quality of life (QOL) has not been well-measured. We sought to develop a reliable, valid measure of hearing-related QOL for adolescents, the Hearing Environments And Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR-QL). Study Design Multi-site observational study. Methods Adolescents with HL and siblings without HL were recruited from five centers. Participants completed the HEAR-QL and validated questionnaires measuring generic pediatric QOL (PedsQL), depression and anxiety (RCADS-25), and hearing-related QOL for adults (HHIA) to determine construct and discriminant validity. Participants completed the HEAR-QL two weeks later for test-retest reliability. We used exploratory principal components analysis to determine the HEAR-QL factor structure and measured reliability. Sensitivity and specificity of the HEAR-QL, PedsQL, HHIA and RCADS-25 were assessed. We compared scores on all surveys between those with normal hearing, unilateral and bilateral HL. Results 233 adolescents (13–18 years old) participated—179 with HL, 54 without HL. The original 45-item HEAR-QL was shortened to 28 items after determining factor structure. The resulting HEAR-QL-28 demonstrated excellent reliability (Cronbach’s alpha= 0.95) and construct validity (HHIA: r =.845, PedsQL: r =.587; RCADS-25: r =.433). The HEAR-QL-28 displayed excellent discriminant validity, with higher area under the curve (0.932) than the PedsQL (0.597) or RCADS-25 (0.529). Teens with bilateral HL using hearing devices reported worse QOL on the HEAR-QL and HHIA than peers with HL not using devices. Conclusions The HEAR-QL is a sensitive, reliable and valid measure of hearing-related QOL for adolescents. PMID:23900836

  4. Reliability and Validity of the Turkish Version of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module for 2- to 7-Year-Old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for 5- to 7-Year-Old: The Hacettepe University Experience.

    PubMed

    Yıldız Kabak, Vesile; Yakut, Yavuz; Çetin, Mualla; Düger, Tülin

    2016-09-05

    The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 3.0 Cancer Module for 2- to 7-year-old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for 5- to 7-year-old in childhood cancer. The PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module and PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were administered to children with cancer and their parents at Hacettepe University. Internal consistency was determined by using Cronbach's alpha and test-retest reliability was determined by using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was assessed by comparing the results of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module with those of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Cronbach's alpha of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module varied from 0.803 to 0.873 and that of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales from 0.665 to 0.841. Test-retest ICC values of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module varied from 0.877 to 0.949 and those of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales from 0.681 to 0.824. The correlation of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module with subscale scores of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales showed that there were excellent to fair correlations between the two scales. The relationship between parent proxy-report and child self-report of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module had very good correlation (r=0.694, p<0.001), as did the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (r=0.540, p=0.002). This study demonstrated the reliability, validity, and feasibility of the Turkish version of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module in 2- to 4-year-old and 5- to 7-year-old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in 5- to 7-year-old in childhood cancer.

  5. Reliability and Validity of the Turkish Version of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module for 2- to 7-Year-Old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for 5- to 7-Year-Old: The Hacettepe University Experience

    PubMed Central

    Yıldız Kabak, Vesile; Yakut, Yavuz; Çetin, Mualla; Düger, Tülin

    2016-01-01

    Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 3.0 Cancer Module for 2- to 7-year-old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for 5- to 7-year-old in childhood cancer. Materials and Methods: The PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module and PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were administered to children with cancer and their parents at Hacettepe University. Internal consistency was determined by using Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability was determined by using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was assessed by comparing the results of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module with those of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Results: Cronbach’s alpha of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module varied from 0.803 to 0.873 and that of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales from 0.665 to 0.841. Test-retest ICC values of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module varied from 0.877 to 0.949 and those of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales from 0.681 to 0.824. The correlation of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module with subscale scores of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales showed that there were excellent to fair correlations between the two scales. The relationship between parent proxy-report and child self-report of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module had very good correlation (r=0.694, p<0.001), as did the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (r=0.540, p=0.002). Conclusion: This study demonstrated the reliability, validity, and feasibility of the Turkish version of the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module in 2- to 4-year-old and 5- to 7-year-old and the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in 5- to 7-year-old in childhood cancer. PMID:27095607

  6. Reliability of the pronator quadratus fat pad sign to predict the severity of distal radius fractures.

    PubMed

    Loesaus, Julia; Wobbe, Isabel; Stahlberg, Erik; Barkhausen, Joerg; Goltz, Jan Peter

    2017-09-28

    To evaluate the reliability of pronator quadratus fat pad sign to detect distal radius fracture and to predict its severity. Retrospectively we identified 89 consecutive patients (41 female, mean age 49 ± 18 years) who had X-ray (CR) and computed tomography (CT) within 24 h following distal forearm trauma. Thickness of pronator quadratus fat pad complex (PQC) was measured using lateral views (CR) and sagittal reconstructions (CT). Pearson's test was used to determine the correlation of the PQC thickness in CR and CT. A positive pronator quadratus sign (PQS) was defined as a PQC > 8.0 mm (female) or > 9.0 mm (male). Frykman classification was utilized to assess the severity of fractures. Forty-four/89 patients (49%) had a distal radius fracture (Frykman I n = 3, II n = 0, III n = 10, IV n = 5, V n = 2, VI n = 2, VII n = 9, VIII n = 13). Mean thickness of the PQC thickness can reliably be measured on X-ray views and was 7.5 ± 2.8 mm in lateral views (CR), respectively 9.4 ± 3.0 mm in sagittal reconstructions (CT), resulting in a significant correlation coefficient of 0.795. A positive PQS at CR was present in 21/44 patients (48%) with distal radius fracture and in 2/45 patients (4%) without distal radius fracture, resulting in a specificity of 96% and a sensitivity of 48% for the detection of distal radius fractures. There was no correlation between thickness of the PQC and severity of distal radius fractures. A positive PQS shows high specificity but low sensitivity for detection of distal radius fractures. The PQC thickness cannot predict the severity of distal radius fractures.

  7. Reliability of the pronator quadratus fat pad sign to predict the severity of distal radius fractures

    PubMed Central

    Loesaus, Julia; Wobbe, Isabel; Stahlberg, Erik; Barkhausen, Joerg; Goltz, Jan Peter

    2017-01-01

    AIM To evaluate the reliability of pronator quadratus fat pad sign to detect distal radius fracture and to predict its severity. METHODS Retrospectively we identified 89 consecutive patients (41 female, mean age 49 ± 18 years) who had X-ray (CR) and computed tomography (CT) within 24 h following distal forearm trauma. Thickness of pronator quadratus fat pad complex (PQC) was measured using lateral views (CR) and sagittal reconstructions (CT). Pearson’s test was used to determine the correlation of the PQC thickness in CR and CT. A positive pronator quadratus sign (PQS) was defined as a PQC > 8.0 mm (female) or > 9.0 mm (male). Frykman classification was utilized to assess the severity of fractures. RESULTS Forty-four/89 patients (49%) had a distal radius fracture (Frykman I n = 3, II n = 0, III n = 10, IV n = 5, V n = 2, VI n = 2, VII n = 9, VIII n = 13). Mean thickness of the PQC thickness can reliably be measured on X-ray views and was 7.5 ± 2.8 mm in lateral views (CR), respectively 9.4 ± 3.0 mm in sagittal reconstructions (CT), resulting in a significant correlation coefficient of 0.795. A positive PQS at CR was present in 21/44 patients (48%) with distal radius fracture and in 2/45 patients (4%) without distal radius fracture, resulting in a specificity of 96% and a sensitivity of 48% for the detection of distal radius fractures. There was no correlation between thickness of the PQC and severity of distal radius fractures. CONCLUSION A positive PQS shows high specificity but low sensitivity for detection of distal radius fractures. The PQC thickness cannot predict the severity of distal radius fractures. PMID:29098069

  8. Narrowing of ischiofemoral and quadratus femoris spaces in pediatric ischiofemoral impingement.

    PubMed

    Goldberg-Stein, Shlomit; Friedman, Avi; Gao, Qi; Choi, Jaeun; Schulz, Jacob; Fornari, Eric; Taragin, Benjamin

    2018-05-05

    To correlate MRI findings of quadratus femoris muscle edema (QFME) with narrowing of the ischiofemoral space (IFS) and quadratus femoris space (QFS) in children, and to identify threshold values reflecting an anatomic architecture that may predispose to ischiofemoral impingement. A case-control retrospective MRI review of 49 hips in 27 children (mean, 13 years) with QFME was compared to 49 hips in 27 gender and age-matched controls. Two radiologists independently measured IFS and QFS. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were fit to compare IFS and QFS values between cases and controls, and adjust for correlation in repeated measures from the same subject. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined optimal threshold values. Compared to controls, cases had significantly smaller IFS (p < 0.001, both readers) and QFS (reader 1: p < 0.001; reader 2: p = 0.003). When stratified as preteen (< 13) or teenage (≥ 13), lower mean IFS and QFS were observed in cases versus controls in both age groups. Area under ROC curve for IFS and QFS was high in preteens (0.77 and 0.71) and teens (0.94 and 0.88). Threshold values were 14.9 mm (preteens) and 19 mm (teens) for IFS and 11.2 mm (preteens) and 11.1 mm (teens) for QFS. IFS and QFS were modestly correlated with age among controls only. Pediatric patients with QFME had significantly narrower QFS and IFS compared with controls. IFS and QFS were found to normally increase in size with age. Optimal cutoff threshold values were identified for QFS and IFS in preteens and teenagers.

  9. Sensitivity for palpating lumbopelvic soft- tissues and bony landmarks and its associated factors: A single-blinded diagnostic accuracy study.

    PubMed

    Ferreira, A P A; Póvoa, L C; Zanier, J F C; Machado, D C; Ferreira, A S

    2017-08-03

    Evidence on the diagnostic performance of palpatory methods and possible confounding factors is scarce. To examine the sensitivity of palpatory methods for location of lumbopelvic landmarks and to assess its association with personal characteristics. Eighty-three participants (41 men, 55.6 (16.5) years, 25.9 (4.8) kg/m2 [mean (SD)]) were enrolled in this single-blinded study. Fourteen body and softy-tissue landmarks were sequentially palpated from the spinous process of L4 to the ischial tuberosity. CT-scan images were used to assess what landmark was located. Sensitivity for location was in range 22-86% for soft-tissues and 26-69% for bony landmarks. Reduction in sensitivity was observed from the quadratus lumborum to the inferior and lateral angle of the sacrum (86-26% and 75-33%, left and right sides, respectively). Palpations of L4 and L5 spinous processes were systematically more cephalic than other landmarks. Gender was weakly correlated to almost all landmarks (rp⁢b= 0.333 or weaker). Body mass index was weakly correlated to the accurate location of ILAS and quadratus lumborum, great trochanter, PSIS, and piriformis (rp⁢b=-0.307 or weaker). Systematic and propagation errors were present using sequential palpatory methods. Palpation in men was more sensitive and higher BMI was associated with lower sensitivity for lumbopelvic landmarks.

  10. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in young adults: feasibility, reliability and validity in a University student population.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A

    2008-02-01

    The PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) is a modular instrument designed to measure health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and disease-specific symptoms in children and adolescents ages 2-18. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was designed as a generic symptom-specific instrument to measure fatigue in pediatric patients ages 2-18. Since a sizeable number of pediatric patients prefer to remain with their pediatric providers after age 18, the objective of the present study was to determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in young adults. The 18-item PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (General Fatigue, Sleep/Rest Fatigue, and Cognitive Fatigue domains), the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version, and the SF-8 Health Survey were completed by 423 university students ages 18-25. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale evidenced minimal missing responses, achieved excellent reliability for the Total Scale Score (alpha = 0.90), distinguished between healthy young adults and young adults with chronic health conditions, was significantly correlated with the relevant PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the SF-8 standardized scores, and demonstrated a factor-derived structure largely consistent with the a priori conceptual model. The results demonstrate the measurement properties of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in a convenience sample of young adult university students. The findings suggest that the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale may be utilized in the evaluation of fatigue for a broad age range.

  11. Astronomical Data Processing Using SciQL, an SQL Based Query Language for Array Data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Y.; Scheers, B.; Kersten, M.; Ivanova, M.; Nes, N.

    2012-09-01

    SciQL (pronounced as ‘cycle’) is a novel SQL-based array query language for scientific applications with both tables and arrays as first class citizens. SciQL lowers the entrance fee of adopting relational DBMS (RDBMS) in scientific domains, because it includes functionality often only found in mathematics software packages. In this paper, we demonstrate the usefulness of SciQL for astronomical data processing using examples from the Transient Key Project of the LOFAR radio telescope. In particular, how the LOFAR light-curve database of all detected sources can be constructed, by correlating sources across the spatial, frequency, time and polarisation domains.

  12. Athletic injuries of the lateral abdominal wall: review of anatomy and MR imaging appearance.

    PubMed

    Stensby, J Derek; Baker, Jonathan C; Fox, Michael G

    2016-02-01

    The lateral abdominal wall is comprised of three muscles, each with a different function and orientation. The transversus abdominus, internal oblique, and external oblique muscles span the abdominal cavity between the iliocostalis lumborum and quadratus lumborum posteriorly and the rectus abdominis anteriorly. The lateral abdominal wall is bound superiorly by the lower ribs and costal cartilages and inferiorly by the iliac crest and inguinal ligament. The lateral abdominal wall may be acutely or chronically injured in a variety of athletic endeavors, with occasional acute injuries in the setting of high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle collisions. Injuries to the lateral abdominal wall may result in lumbar hernia formation, unique for its high incarceration rate, and also Spigelian hernias. This article will review the anatomy, the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging approach, and the features and complications of lateral abdominal wall injuries.

  13. PiCO QL: A software library for runtime interactive queries on program data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fragkoulis, Marios; Spinellis, Diomidis; Louridas, Panos

    PiCO QL is an open source C/C++ software whose scientific scope is real-time interactive analysis of in-memory data through SQL queries. It exposes a relational view of a system's or application's data structures, which is queryable through SQL. While the application or system is executing, users can input queries through a web-based interface or issue web service requests. Queries execute on the live data structures through the respective relational views. PiCO QL makes a good candidate for ad-hoc data analysis in applications and for diagnostics in systems settings. Applications of PiCO QL include the Linux kernel, the Valgrind instrumentation framework, a GIS application, a virtual real-time observatory of stellar objects, and a source code analyser.

  14. Psychometric properties and Dutch norm data of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale for Young Adults.

    PubMed

    Haverman, Lotte; Limperg, Perrine F; van Oers, Hedy A; van Rossum, Marion A J; Maurice-Stam, Heleen; Grootenhuis, Martha A

    2014-12-01

    The aim of this study was to assess internal consistency and construct validity (known-groups validity) and to provide Dutch norm data for the Dutch Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale for Young Adults ages 18-30 years (PedsQL fatigue_YA). A Dutch sample of 649 young adults completed online a sociodemographic questionnaire and the PedsQL fatigue_YA including three subscales: general fatigue, sleep/rest fatigue and cognitive fatigue (0-100: Higher scores indicate less fatigue symptoms). The PedsQL fatigue_YA showed satisfactory to good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .70-.94), except for one scale (.68). The mean scale scores were 68.23 (SD 19.15) for 'general fatigue,' 67.04 (SD 15.54) for 'sleep/rest fatigue' and 74.62 (SD 19.02) for 'cognitive fatigue.' Men reported significantly higher scores on 'general fatigue' and 'sleep/rest fatigue' than women. The PedsQL fatigue_YA distinguished between healthy young adults and young adults with chronic health conditions, with higher scores on all scales in healthy young adults than in those with a chronic health condition. The results demonstrate good psychometric properties of the PedsQL fatigue_YA in a sample of Dutch young adults. With the current norms available, it is possible to evaluate fatigue in the Netherlands from childhood to adulthood with the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale.

  15. The PedsQL 4.0 as a school population health measure: feasibility, reliability, and validity.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Burwinkle, Tasha M; Seid, Michael

    2006-03-01

    The application of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) as a school population health measure may facilitate risk assessment and resource allocation, the tracking of student health at the school and district level, the identification of health disparities among schoolchildren, and the determination of health outcomes from interventions and policy decisions at the school, district, and county level. To determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the 23-item PedsQL 4.0 (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) Generic Core Scales as a school population health measure for children and adolescents. Survey conducted in 304 classes at 18 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 3 high schools within a large metropolitan school district. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (Physical, Emotional, Social, School Functioning) were completed by 2437 children ages 8-18 and 4227 parents of children ages 5-18. The PedsQL 4.0 evidenced minimal missing responses, achieved excellent reliability for the Total Scale Score (alpha = 0.89 child, 0.92, parent report), and distinguished between healthy children and children with chronic health conditions. The PedsQL 4.0 was related to indicators of socioeconomic status (SES) at the school and district level. The PedsQL School Functioning Scale was significantly correlated with standardized achievement scores based on the Stanford 9. The results demonstrate the feasibility, reliability and validity of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales as a school population health measure. The implications of measuring HRQOL in schoolchildren at the school, district, and county level for identifying and ameliorating health disparities are discussed.

  16. Countermeasures against lumbar spine deconditioning in prolonged bed rest: resistive exercise with and without whole body vibration.

    PubMed

    Belavý, Daniel L; Armbrecht, Gabriele; Gast, Ulf; Richardson, Carolyn A; Hides, Julie A; Felsenberg, Dieter

    2010-12-01

    To evaluate the effect of short-duration, high-load resistive exercise, with and without whole body vibration on lumbar muscle size, intervertebral disk and spinal morphology changes, and low back pain (LBP) incidence during prolonged bed rest, 24 subjects underwent 60 days of head-down tilt bed rest and performed either resistive vibration exercise (n = 7), resistive exercise only (n = 8), or no exercise (n = 9; 2nd Berlin Bed-Rest Study). Discal and spinal shape was measured from sagittal plane magnetic resonance images. Cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the multifidus, erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and psoas were measured on para-axial magnetic resonance images. LBP incidence was assessed with questionnaires at regular intervals. The countermeasures reduced CSA loss in the multifidus, lumbar erector spinae and quadratus lumborum muscles, with greater increases in psoas muscle CSA seen in the countermeasure groups (P ≤ 0.004). There was little statistical evidence for an additional effect of whole body vibration above resistive exercise alone on these muscle changes. Exercise subjects reported LBP more frequently in the first week of bed rest, but this was only significant in resistive exercise only (P = 0.011 vs. control, resistive vibration exercise vs. control: P = 0.56). No effect of the countermeasures on changes in spinal morphology was seen (P ≥ 0.22). The results suggest that high-load resistive exercise, with or without whole body vibration, performed 3 days/wk can reduce lumbar muscle atrophy, but further countermeasure optimization is required.

  17. The Psychometric Properties of an Arabic version of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale Tested for Children with Cancer.

    PubMed

    Al-Gamal, Ekhlas; Long, Tony

    2017-09-01

    Fatigue is considered to be one of the most reported symptoms experienced by children with cancer. A major aim of this study was to develop an Arabic version of the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (child report) and to test its psychometric proprieties for the assessment of fatigue in Arabic children with cancer. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (Arabic version) and the PedsQL TM 4.0 Generic Core scale (existing Arabic version) were completed by 70 Jordanian children with cancer. Cronbach's alpha coefficients were found to be 0.90 for the total PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (Arabic version), 0.94 for the general fatigue subscale, 0.67 for the sleep/rest fatigue subscale, and 0.87 for the cognitive fatigue subscale. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale scores correlated significantly with the PedsQL TM 4.0 Generic Core scale and demonstrated good construct validity. The results demonstrate excellent reliability and good validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (Arabic version) for children with cancer. This is the first validated scale that assesses fatigue in Arabic children with cancer. The English scale has been used with several pediatric clinical populations, so this Arabic version may be equally useful beyond the field of cancer.

  18. RecQL5 promotes genome stabilization through two parallel mechanisms--interacting with RNA polymerase II and acting as a helicase.

    PubMed

    Islam, M Nurul; Fox, David; Guo, Rong; Enomoto, Takemi; Wang, Weidong

    2010-05-01

    The RecQL5 helicase is essential for maintaining genome stability and reducing cancer risk. To elucidate its mechanism of action, we purified a RecQL5-associated complex and identified its major component as RNA polymerase II (Pol II). Bioinformatics and structural modeling-guided mutagenesis revealed two conserved regions in RecQL5 as KIX and SRI domains, already known in transcriptional regulators for Pol II. The RecQL5-KIX domain binds both initiation (Pol IIa) and elongation (Pol IIo) forms of the polymerase, whereas the RecQL5-SRI domain interacts only with the elongation form. Fully functional RecQL5 requires both helicase activity and associations with the initiation polymerase, because mutants lacking either activity are partially defective in the suppression of sister chromatid exchange and resistance to camptothecin-induced DNA damage, and mutants lacking both activities are completely defective. We propose that RecQL5 promotes genome stabilization through two parallel mechanisms: by participation in homologous recombination-dependent DNA repair as a RecQ helicase and by regulating the initiation of Pol II to reduce transcription-associated replication impairment and recombination.

  19. Estimation of lumbar spinal loading and trunk muscle forces during asymmetric lifting tasks: application of whole-body musculoskeletal modelling in OpenSim.

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyun-Kyung; Zhang, Yanxin

    2017-04-01

    Large spinal compressive force combined with axial torsional shear force during asymmetric lifting tasks is highly associated with lower back injury (LBI). The aim of this study was to estimate lumbar spinal loading and muscle forces during symmetric lifting (SL) and asymmetric lifting (AL) tasks using a whole-body musculoskeletal modelling approach. Thirteen healthy males lifted loads of 7 and 12 kg under two lifting conditions (SL and AL). Kinematic data and ground reaction force data were collected and then processed by a whole-body musculoskeletal model. The results show AL produced a significantly higher peak lateral shear force as well as greater peak force of psoas major, quadratus lumborum, multifidus, iliocostalis lumborum pars lumborum, longissimus thoracis pars lumborum and external oblique than SL. The greater lateral shear forces combined with higher muscle force and asymmetrical muscle contractions may have the biomechanical mechanism responsible for the increased risk of LBI during AL. Practitioner Summary: Estimating lumbar spinal loading and muscle forces during free-dynamic asymmetric lifting tasks with a whole-body musculoskeletal modelling in OpenSim is the core value of this research. The results show that certain muscle groups are fundamentally responsible for asymmetric movement, thereby producing high lumbar spinal loading and muscle forces, which may increase risks of LBI during asymmetric lifting tasks.

  20. PedsQL gastrointestinal symptoms module feasibility reliability and validity

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The objective of this study was to report on the measurement properties of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Gastrointestinal Symptoms Module for patients with functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders (FGIDs) and organic GI diseases, hereafter referred to as "GI disorders," for pati...

  1. Regular paths in SparQL: querying the NCI Thesaurus.

    PubMed

    Detwiler, Landon T; Suciu, Dan; Brinkley, James F

    2008-11-06

    OWL, the Web Ontology Language, provides syntax and semantics for representing knowledge for the semantic web. Many of the constructs of OWL have a basis in the field of description logics. While the formal underpinnings of description logics have lead to a highly computable language, it has come at a cognitive cost. OWL ontologies are often unintuitive to readers lacking a strong logic background. In this work we describe GLEEN, a regular path expression library, which extends the RDF query language SparQL to support complex path expressions over OWL and other RDF-based ontologies. We illustrate the utility of GLEEN by showing how it can be used in a query-based approach to defining simpler, more intuitive views of OWL ontologies. In particular we show how relatively simple GLEEN-enhanced SparQL queries can create views of the OWL version of the NCI Thesaurus that match the views generated by the web-based NCI browser.

  2. The PedsQL 4.0 as a pediatric population health measure: feasibility, reliability, and validity.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Burwinkle, Tasha M; Seid, Michael; Skarr, Douglas

    2003-01-01

    The application of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) as a pediatric population health measure may facilitate risk assessment and resource allocation, the tracking of community health, the identification of health disparities, and the determination of health outcomes from interventions and policy decisions. To determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the 23-item PedsQL 4.0 (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) Generic Core Scales as a measure of pediatric population health for children and adolescents. Mail survey in February and March 2001 to 20 031 families with children ages 2-16 years throughout the State of California encompassing all new enrollees in the State's Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) for those months and targeted language groups. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales (Physical, Emotional, Social, School Functioning) were completed by 10 241 families through a statewide mail survey to evaluate the HRQOL of new enrollees in SCHIP. The PedsQL 4.0 evidenced minimal missing responses, achieved excellent reliability for the Total Scale Score (alpha =.89 child;.92 parent report), and distinguished between healthy children and children with chronic health conditions. The PedsQL 4.0 was also related to indicators of health care access, days missed from school, days sick in bed or too ill to play, and days needing care. The results demonstrate the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the PedsQL 4.0 as a pediatric population health outcome. Measuring pediatric HRQOL may be a way to evaluate the health outcomes of SCHIP.

  3. Effect of reduction of oxygen concentration in modified atmosphere packaging on bovine M. longissimus lumborum and M. gluteus medius quality traits.

    PubMed

    Łopacka, Joanna; Półtorak, Andrzej; Wierzbicka, Agnieszka

    2017-02-01

    This paper reports the impact of modified atmosphere gas compositions with different concentrations of CO 2 /O 2 /N 2 on physicochemical traits of beef steaks from M. longissimus lumborum and M. gluteus medius. Samples were stored at +2°C for 12days. The gas compositions were as follows: (i) 50% O 2 /20% CO 2 /30% N 2 (MAP1), (ii) 65% O 2 /20% CO 2 /15% N 2 (MAP2) and (iii) 80% O 2 /20% CO 2 (MAP3). Packaging atmosphere did not affect CIEL*a*b* colour coordinates, which were affected by storage time and by muscle type. Lipid oxidation in M. longissimus lumborum was affected by packaging treatment; however packaging treatment×storage time interaction affected lipid oxidation significantly. Results showed that reduction of oxygen from the commercially used 80% to 50% does not negatively impact colour properties and state of myoglobin, but significantly lowers oxidative deterioration of M. longissimus lumborum at the end of storage. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  4. Supporting temporal queries on clinical relational databases: the S-WATCH-QL language.

    PubMed Central

    Combi, C.; Missora, L.; Pinciroli, F.

    1996-01-01

    Due to the ubiquitous and special nature of time, specially in clinical datábases there's the need of particular temporal data and operators. In this paper we describe S-WATCH-QL (Structured Watch Query Language), a temporal extension of SQL, the widespread query language based on the relational model. S-WATCH-QL extends the well-known SQL by the addition of: a) temporal data types that allow the storage of information with different levels of granularity; b) historical relations that can store together both instantaneous valid times and intervals; c) some temporal clauses, functions and predicates allowing to define complex temporal queries. PMID:8947722

  5. PedsQL relates to function and behavior in very low and normal birth weight 2- and 3-year-olds from a regional cohort.

    PubMed

    Palta, Mari; Sadek-Badawi, Mona

    2008-06-01

    To compare PedsQL scores in young children who were very low (< or =1,500 g) or normal birth weight (>2,500 g) and to examine the relationship of the PedsQL score to behavioral and functional scores. The PedsQL, Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist and the PEDI functional scales were telephone administered to parents of a regional cohort of 672 very low birth weight and 455 normal birth weight children, 2- and 3-years old. PedsQL scales were regressed on behavior, function and health conditions. Mean (SD) overall PedsQL score was 91 (8.4) for normal birth weight and 87 (12) for very low birth weight children, and changed little when standardized to the race/ethnicity and maternal education of corresponding Wisconsin births. Mobility function and the CBCL explained 58% of the variance in PedsQL, but the relationship was curvilinear. The PedsQL is sensitive to health problems of very low birth weight in young children. The PedsQL is quite strongly related to mobility and behavior problems, but scales these differently than do standard instruments. Parents either do not think of subtle issues with child function and behavior without specific prompting or do not perceive them as problems affecting quality of life.

  6. Psychometric properties of the Swedish PedsQL, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Petersen, Solveig; Hägglöf, Bruno; Stenlund, Hans; Bergström, Erik

    2009-09-01

    To study the psychometric performance of the Swedish version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scales in a general child population in Sweden. PedsQL forms were distributed to 2403 schoolchildren and 888 parents in two different school settings. Reliability and validity was studied for self-reports and proxy reports, full forms and short forms. Confirmatory factor analysis tested the factor structure and multigroup confirmatory factor analysis tested measurement invariance between boys and girls. Test-retest reliability was demonstrated for all scales and internal consistency reliability was shown with alpha value exceeding 0.70 for all scales but one (self-report short form: social functioning). Child-parent agreement was low to moderate. The four-factor structure of the PedsQL and factorial invariance across sex subgroups were confirmed for the self-report forms and for the proxy short form, while model fit indices suggested improvement of several proxy full-form scales. The Swedish PedsQL 4.0 generic core scales are a reliable and valid tool for health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessment in Swedish child populations. The proxy full form, however, should be used with caution. The study also support continued use of the PedsQL as a four-factor model, capable of revealing meaningful HRQoL differences between boys and girls.

  7. Incorporation of Active Elements into the Articulated Total Body Model.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-06-30

    3.08 2 3.0 3.5 .31 124.95 11) Rectus Abdominus 1 1.0 .5 1.92 3 3.0 .5 -4.23 58.52 12) Quadratus Lumborum 1 .0 3.5 -3.08 2 -.7 1.0 -.17 61.6...human rectus femorus muscle to uo-.009 for the human biceps muscle (Hatze, 1979) with an average value of -~I, uo-.00673 resulting in 6-5 to be used for...Area (cm2 ) Longus Capitis Transverse Basilar part of Flexion of .75 processes of C3, occipital bone head C4, C5, C6 Rectus capitis Cl transverse Front

  8. The PedsQL in pediatric cancer: reliability and validity of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Scales, Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, and Cancer Module.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Burwinkle, Tasha M; Katz, Ernest R; Meeske, Kathy; Dickinson, Paige

    2002-04-01

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) is a modular instrument designed to measure health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children and adolescents ages 2-18 years. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales are multidimensional child self-report and parent proxy-report scales developed as the generic core measure to be integrated with the PedsQL disease specific modules. The PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was designed to measure fatigue in pediatric patients. The PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module was designed to measure pediatric cancer specific HRQOL. The PedsQL Generic Core Scales, Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, and Cancer Module were administered to 339 families (220 child self-reports; 337 parent proxy-reports). Internal consistency reliability for the PedsQL Generic Core Total Scale Score (alpha = 0.88 child, 0.93 parent report), Multidimensional Fatigue Total Scale Score (alpha = 0.89 child, 0.92 parent report) and most Cancer Module Scales (average alpha = 0.72 child, 0.87 parent report) demonstrated reliability acceptable for group comparisons. Validity was demonstrated using the known-groups method. The PedsQL distinguished between healthy children and children with cancer as a group, and among children on-treatment versus off-treatment. The validity of the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale was further demonstrated through hypothesized intercorrelations with dimensions of generic and cancer specific HRQOL. The results demonstrate the reliability and validity of the PedsQL Generic Core Scales, Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, and Cancer Module in pediatric cancer. The PedsQL may be utilized as an outcome measure in clinical trials, research, and clinical practice. Copyright 2002 American Cancer Society.

  9. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 as an assessment measure for depressive symptoms: a correlational study with young adolescents.

    PubMed

    Reinfjell, Trude; Hjemdal, Odin; Aune, Tore; Vikan, Arne; Diseth, Trond H

    2008-01-01

    Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is today considered an important assessment measurement, but still only a few measures assess HRQOL outcomes for children and adolescents. One of them is the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). This correlation study explored the associations between depressive symptoms in young adolescents and the PedsQL scores when controlling for known risk factors. An adolescent sample (n=425) completed a battery of measures including the PedsQL Norwegian version, the Short Mood and Feeling Questionnaire (SMFQ), the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory for children (SPAI-C), and the occurrence of Stressful Life Events (SLE). The results showed a mild to moderate correlation between the measures PedsQL, SMFQ, SPAI-C and SLE. The presence of depressive symptoms significantly predicted the PedsQL scores for the adolescence, and explained 17% of the variance in outcome for the PedsQL Total Scale. The findings suggest that the PedsQL is an adequate assessment instrument regarding depressive symptoms in young adolescents, and can be useful in both clinical practice and further research as an assessment measure regarding children's mental health.

  10. PedsQL Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Module for children, adolescents and young adults: feasibility, reliability, and validity.

    PubMed

    Nutakki, Kavitha; Varni, James W; Swigonski, Nancy L

    2018-04-01

    The objective of the present study was to report on the measurement properties of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Module for pediatric patients ages 5-25 from the perspectives of patients and parents. The 104-item PedsQL NF1 Module and 23-item PedsQL Generic Core Scales were completed in a multi-site national study by 323 patients and 335 parents (343 families). Patients were diagnosed with NF1 using the National Institutes of Health diagnostic criteria. In addition to a Total Scale Score, 18 unidimensional scales were derived measuring skin itch bother, skin sensations, pain, pain impact, pain management, cognitive functioning, speech, fine motor, balance, vision, perceived physical appearance, communication, worry, treatment anxiety, medicines, stomach discomfort, constipation, and diarrhea. The PedsQL NF1 Module Scales evidenced excellent feasibility, excellent reliability for the Total Scale Scores (patient self-report α = 0.98; parent proxy-report α = 0.98), and good to excellent reliability for the 18 individual scales (patient self-report α = 0.71-0.96; parent proxy-report α = 0.73-0.98). Intercorrelations with the Generic Core Scales supported construct validity. Factor analysis supported the unidimensionality of the 18 individual scales. The PedsQL NF1 Module Scales demonstrated acceptable to excellent measurement properties, and may be utilized as standardized metrics to assess NF1-specific symptoms and problems in clinical research and practice in children, adolescents, and young adults.

  11. Quality of life of asthmatic children and adolescents: Portuguese translation, adaptation, and validation of the questionnaire "Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) Asthma Module".

    PubMed

    Monteiro, Fernanda Pereira; Solé, Dirceu; Wandalsen, Gustavo

    2017-11-01

    The objectives of the study were to translate, validate, and verify the psychometric properties of the Portuguese version of the instrument "Pediatric Quality of Life Asthma Module" (PedsQL Asthma) culturally adapted for the Brazilian culture. After being translated to Portuguese and being culturally adapted, the questionnaire was answered by 200 asthmatic children and adolescents (aged 2-18) as well as the adults responsible for them. Validation required the use of the following instruments: PedsQL Asthma Children (applied to children and adolescents), PedsQL Asthma Parents (applied to adults responsible for children and adolescents), Pediatric Asthma Quality of Life (PAQLQ), Asthma Control Test (ACT) or Childhood Asthma Control Test (C-ACT), as well as socioeconomic and personal information questionnaires. A group of 45 clinically stable children repeated the questionnaires 15-60 days after answering the first questionnaire. Correlations between the scores of PedsQL Children and PedsQL Parents (r  =  0.67), PedsQL Children and PAQLQ (r  =  0.66), and PedsQL Parents and PAQLQ (r  =  0.64) were moderate and significant. Correlations were higher for men (r  =  0.72) when analyzing the children's and parents' answers to PedsQL according to gender. The 5- to 7-year-old age group had the strongest correlations with PAQLQ (r  =  0.79). Cronbach's alpha coefficient for PedsQL Children and Parents had values of 0.85 and 0.87, respectively. A high concordance was observed in both tests at different times, with kappa values of 0.89 and 0.87 for PedsQL Children and Parents, respectively. The instrument used in this study was considered valid, consistent, and reproducible and has acceptable psychometric properties for the Brazilian population.

  12. Effect of age on structural properties of intramuscular connective tissue, muscle fibre, collagen content and meat tenderness in pig longissimus lumborum muscle.

    PubMed

    Wojtysiak, Dorota

    2013-01-01

    Changes in the structure and properties of the intramuscular connective tissue, muscle fibre size, collagen content and meat tenderness of m. longissimus lumborum during growth was studied in 45 Polish Large White (PLW) pigs slaughtered at 90, 150 and 210 days of age. The results show that the endomysial sheath in m. longissimus lumborum consists of collagen fibrils of wavy appearance which run in all directions and form a loose network. The arrangement of collagen fibrils in the endomysium and perimysium becomes denser and more regular with increasing age of pigs. In addition, the increase in endomysium and perimysium thickness was paralleled by a significant increase in muscle fibre diameter, as well as an increase in shear force value with chronological aging. In contrast, the percentage of collagen area in muscle structure and the amount of total collagen and amount of soluble collagen decreased gradually with age of pigs. In conclusion, the structural changes in the arrangement of collagen fibres in the architecture of intramusclular connective tissue, as well as the decrease in soluble collagen content in m. longissimus lumborum during growth of pigs are important factors influencing shear force value, and thus raw meat tenderness.

  13. Asymmetrical and smaller size of trunk muscles in combat sports athletes with lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration.

    PubMed

    Iwai, Kazunori; Koyama, Koji; Okada, Takashi; Nakazato, Koichi; Takahashi, Ray; Matsumoto, Shingo; Yamamoto, Yosuke; Hiranuma, Kenji

    2016-01-01

    Lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration (LDD) frequently occurs in athletes. Associations between LDD and trunk muscles still remain unclear. This study examined whether there is an association between the prevalence of LDD and the symmetry and size of the cross-sectional areas (CSAs) of the trunk muscles in combat sports athletes. Participants in this study were 151 collegiate male combat sports athletes. A total of 755 lumbar intervertebral discs from L1-2 to L5-S1 in 151 athletes were assessed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and a comprehensive grading system of LDD (grades I-V). All 151 athletes were divided into 2 groups: LDD and non-LDD. CSAs of trunk muscles at the L3-4 disc level were measured using MRI. Sixty-nine athletes had LDD at 1 or more disc levels (45.7 %). The LDD grade for the lower 2 disc levels was significantly higher than that for the other disc levels (p < 0.001). The CSAs of the left and right sides in trunk muscles were significantly asymmetrical, independent of the LDD which was prevalent in the disc levels (obliques: p = 0.040; quadratus lumborum: p < 0.001). The relative CSAs of trunk muscles to their body weight in the LDD group were significantly smaller than those in the non-LDD group (rectus abdominis: p = 0.011; obliques: p = 0.024; quadratus lumborum: p = 0.006; lumbar erector spinae plus multifidus: p = 0.001). This study suggests that the prevalence of LDD is associated with asymmetrical and relatively smaller CSAs of trunk muscles in combat sports athletes.

  14. Truncal blocks for perioperative pain management: a review of the literature and evolving techniques.

    PubMed

    Go, Ramon; Huang, Yolanda Y; Weyker, Paul D; Webb, Christopher Aj

    2016-10-01

    As the American healthcare system continues to evolve and reimbursement becomes tied to value-based incentive programs, perioperative pain management will become increasingly important. Regional anesthetic techniques are only one component of a successful multimodal pain regimen. In recent years, the use of peripheral and paraneuraxial blocks to provide chest wall and abdominal analgesia has gained popularity. When used within a multimodal regimen, truncal blocks may provide similar analgesia when compared with other regional anesthetic techniques. While there are other reviews that cover this topic, our review will also highlight the emerging role for serratus plane blocks, pectoral nerve blocks and quadratus lumborum blocks in providing thoracic and abdominal analgesia.

  15. UBE2QL1 is Disrupted by a Constitutional Translocation Associated with Renal Tumor Predisposition and is a Novel Candidate Renal Tumor Suppressor Gene

    PubMed Central

    Wake, Naomi C; Ricketts, Christopher J; Morris, Mark R; Prigmore, Elena; Gribble, Susan M; Skytte, Anne-Bine; Brown, Michael; Clarke, Noel; Banks, Rosamonde E; Hodgson, Shirley; Turnell, Andrew S; Maher, Eamonn R; Woodward, Emma R

    2013-01-01

    Investigation of rare familial forms of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has led to the identification of genes such as VHL and MET that are also implicated in the pathogenesis of sporadic RCC. In order to identify a novel candidate renal tumor suppressor gene, we characterized the breakpoints of a constitutional balanced translocation, t(5;19)(p15.3;q12), associated with familial RCC and found that a previously uncharacterized gene UBE2QL1 was disrupted by the chromosome 5 breakpoint. UBE2QL1 mRNA expression was downregulated in 78.6% of sporadic RCC and, although no intragenic mutations were detected, gene deletions and promoter region hypermethylation were detected in 17.3% and 20.3%, respectively, of sporadic RCC. Reexpression of UBE2QL1 in a deficient RCC cell line suppressed anchorage-independent growth. UBE2QL1 shows homology to the E2 class of ubiquitin conjugating enzymes and we found that (1) UBE2QL1 possesses an active-site cysteine (C88) that is monoubiquitinated in vivo, and (2) UBE2QL1 interacts with FBXW7 (an F box protein providing substrate recognition to the SCF E3 ubiquitin ligase) and facilitates the degradation of the known FBXW7 targets, CCNE1 and mTOR. These findings suggest UBE2QL1 as a novel candidate renal tumor suppressor gene. PMID:24000165

  16. Human RecQL4 helicase plays multifaceted roles in the genomic stability of normal and cancer cells.

    PubMed

    Mo, Dongliang; Zhao, Yongliang; Balajee, Adayabalam S

    2018-01-28

    Human RecQ helicases that share homology with E. coli RecQ helicase play critical roles in diverse biological activities such as DNA replication, transcription, recombination and repair. Mutations in three of the five human RecQ helicases (RecQ1, WRN, BLM, RecQL4 and RecQ5) result in autosomal recessive syndromes characterized by accelerated aging symptoms and cancer incidence. Mutational inactivation of Werner (WRN) and Bloom (BLM) genes results in Werner syndrome (WS) and Bloom syndrome (BS) respectively. However, mutations in RecQL4 result in three human disorders: (I) Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS), (II) RAPADILINO and (III) Baller-Gerold syndrome (BGS). Cells from WS, BS and RTS are characterized by a unique chromosomal anomaly indicating that each of the RecQ helicases performs specialized function(s) in a non-redundant manner. Elucidating the biological functions of RecQ helicases will enable us to understand not only the aging process but also to determine the cause for age-associated human diseases. Recent biochemical and molecular studies have given new insights into the multifaceted roles of RecQL4 that range from genomic stability to carcinogenesis and beyond. This review summarizes some of the existing and emerging knowledge on diverse biological functions of RecQL4 and its significance as a potential molecular target for cancer therapy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. RecQL4 is required for the association of Mcm10 and Ctf4 with replication origins in human cells

    PubMed Central

    Im, Jun-Sub; Park, Soon-Young; Cho, Won-Ho; Bae, Sung-Ho; Hurwitz, Jerard; Lee, Joon-Kyu

    2015-01-01

    Though RecQL4 was shown to be essential for the initiation of DNA replication in mammalian cells, its role in initiation is poorly understood. Here, we show that RecQL4 is required for the origin binding of Mcm10 and Ctf4, and their physical interactions and association with replication origins are controlled by the concerted action of both CDK and DDK activities. Although RecQL4-dependent binding of Mcm10 and Ctf4 to chromatin can occur in the absence of pre-replicative complex, their association with replication origins requires the presence of the pre-replicative complex and CDK and DDK activities. Their association with replication origins and physical interactions are also targets of the DNA damage checkpoint pathways which prevent initiation of DNA replication at replication origins. Taken together, the RecQL4-dependent association of Mcm10 and Ctf4 with replication origins appears to be the first important step controlled by S phase promoting kinases and checkpoint pathways for the initiation of DNA replication in human cells. PMID:25602958

  18. Can motor control training lower the risk of injury for professional football players?

    PubMed

    Hides, Julie A; Stanton, Warren R

    2014-04-01

    Among injuries reported by the Australian Football League (AFL), lower limb injuries have shown the highest incidence and prevalence rates. Deficits in the muscles of the lumbopelvic region, such as a smaller size of multifidus (MF) muscle, have been related to the occurrence of lower limb injuries in the preseason in AFL players. Motor control training programs have been effective in restoring the size and control of the MF muscle, but the relationship between motor control training and occurrence of injuries has not been extensively examined. This pre- and postintervention trial was delivered during the playing season as a panel design with three groups. The motor control program involved voluntary contractions of the MF, transversus abdominis, and pelvic floor muscles while receiving feedback from ultrasound imaging and progressed into a functional rehabilitation program. Assessments of muscle size and function were performed using magnetic resonance imaging and included the measurement of cross-sectional areas of MF, psoas, and quadratus lumborum muscles and the change in trunk cross-sectional area due to voluntarily contracting the transversus abdominis muscle. Injury data were obtained from club records. Informed consent was obtained from all study participants. A smaller size of the MF muscle (odds ratio [OR] = 2.38) or quadratus lumborum muscle (OR = 2.17) was predictive of lower limb injury in the playing season. At the time point when one group of players had not received the intervention (n = 14), comparisons were made with the combined groups who had received the intervention (n = 32). The risk of sustaining a severe injury was lower for those players who received the motor control intervention (OR = 0.09). Although there are many factors associated with injuries in AFL, motor control training may provide a useful addition to strategies aimed at reducing lower limb injuries.

  19. Validity and responsiveness of the pediatric quality of life inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scales in the pediatric inpatient setting.

    PubMed

    Desai, Arti D; Zhou, Chuan; Stanford, Susan; Haaland, Wren; Varni, James W; Mangione-Smith, Rita M

    2014-12-01

    Validated patient-reported outcomes responsive to clinical change are needed to evaluate the effectiveness of quality improvement interventions. To evaluate responsiveness, construct validity, and predictive validity of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales in the pediatric inpatient setting. Prospective, cohort study of parents and caregivers of patients 1 month to 18 years old (n = 4637) and patients 13 to 18 years old (n = 359) admitted to Seattle Children's Hospital between October 1, 2011, and December 31, 2013. Of 7184 eligible participants invited to complete the survey, 4637 (64.5%) completed the PedsQL on admission, and of these 2694 (58.1%) completed the follow-up survey 2 to 8 weeks after discharge. Responsiveness was assessed by calculating improvement scores (difference between follow-up and admission scores). Construct validity was examined by comparing the mean improvement scores for known groups differing by medical complexity. Predictive validity was assessed using Poisson regression to examine associations among admission scores, prolonged length of stay (≥3 days), and 30-day readmissions or emergency department (ED) return visits. Similar models examined the association between improvement scores and risk for 30-day readmissions or ED return visits. The mean (SD) PedsQL improvement scores (scale, 0-100) were 22.1 (22.7) for total, 29.4 (32.4) for physical, and 17.1 (21.0) for psychosocial. The mean PedsQL total improvement scores were lower for patients with medically complex conditions compared with patients without chronic conditions (13.7 [95% CI, 11.6-15.8] vs. 24.1 [95% CI, 22.4-25.7], P < .001). A 10-point decrement in the PedsQL total admission score below the established community-based mean was associated with an increase in risk for prolonged length of stay (15% [95% CI, 13%-17%]), 30-day readmissions (8% [95% CI, 3%-14%]), and ED return visits (13% [95% CI, 6%-20%]). A 5-point decrement

  20. S3QL: A distributed domain specific language for controlled semantic integration of life sciences data

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Background The value and usefulness of data increases when it is explicitly interlinked with related data. This is the core principle of Linked Data. For life sciences researchers, harnessing the power of Linked Data to improve biological discovery is still challenged by a need to keep pace with rapidly evolving domains and requirements for collaboration and control as well as with the reference semantic web ontologies and standards. Knowledge organization systems (KOSs) can provide an abstraction for publishing biological discoveries as Linked Data without complicating transactions with contextual minutia such as provenance and access control. We have previously described the Simple Sloppy Semantic Database (S3DB) as an efficient model for creating knowledge organization systems using Linked Data best practices with explicit distinction between domain and instantiation and support for a permission control mechanism that automatically migrates between the two. In this report we present a domain specific language, the S3DB query language (S3QL), to operate on its underlying core model and facilitate management of Linked Data. Results Reflecting the data driven nature of our approach, S3QL has been implemented as an application programming interface for S3DB systems hosting biomedical data, and its syntax was subsequently generalized beyond the S3DB core model. This achievement is illustrated with the assembly of an S3QL query to manage entities from the Simple Knowledge Organization System. The illustrative use cases include gastrointestinal clinical trials, genomic characterization of cancer by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and molecular epidemiology of infectious diseases. Conclusions S3QL was found to provide a convenient mechanism to represent context for interoperation between public and private datasets hosted at biomedical research institutions and linked data formalisms. PMID:21756325

  1. HRQoL in HIV-infected children using PedsQL 4.0 and comparison with uninfected children.

    PubMed

    Banerjee, Tanushree; Pensi, Tripti; Banerjee, Dipankar

    2010-08-01

    To assess the reliability and validity of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL(TM) 4.0) in children living with HIV. Also to determine the association of HIV infection, treatment regimens, and type of care received on quality of life (QoL) in pediatric patients. Study was conducted from January to December 2008 at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi, India at the HIV pediatric outpatient department (OPD). PedsQL(TM) 4.0 was administered to 100 HIV-infected and 200 uninfected children aged 8-12 years and their primary caregivers. Internal consistency reliability exceeded 0.70 for both proxy-reported and self-reported scales. Intraclass correlation coefficient demonstrated mainly larger values for parent proxy-report (interval of 0.926-0.952 with 95% confidence) than for child self-report (interval of 0.891-0.928 with 95% confidence). Factor analysis was performed and it indicated that five factors were extracted from the PedsQL(TM) 4.0 and these five factors correspond mainly to the five scales. HIV infection was associated with a negative impact on QoL among children with lower scores for physical, school, and emotional functioning and health symptoms. In contrast, uninfected children had lower social functioning scores. Our results showed antiretroviral treatment to be associated with improved QoL among HIV-infected children. We even identified infected children living at home to be at a higher distress of psychosocial functioning and health symptoms when compared with children living in care homes. PedsQL(TM) is an acceptable and valid measure of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for HIV-infected children and uninfected group. Application of this data will be helpful for program managers to devise care and support programme for both infected and uninfected children.

  2. S3QL: a distributed domain specific language for controlled semantic integration of life sciences data.

    PubMed

    Deus, Helena F; Correa, Miriã C; Stanislaus, Romesh; Miragaia, Maria; Maass, Wolfgang; de Lencastre, Hermínia; Fox, Ronan; Almeida, Jonas S

    2011-07-14

    The value and usefulness of data increases when it is explicitly interlinked with related data. This is the core principle of Linked Data. For life sciences researchers, harnessing the power of Linked Data to improve biological discovery is still challenged by a need to keep pace with rapidly evolving domains and requirements for collaboration and control as well as with the reference semantic web ontologies and standards. Knowledge organization systems (KOSs) can provide an abstraction for publishing biological discoveries as Linked Data without complicating transactions with contextual minutia such as provenance and access control.We have previously described the Simple Sloppy Semantic Database (S3DB) as an efficient model for creating knowledge organization systems using Linked Data best practices with explicit distinction between domain and instantiation and support for a permission control mechanism that automatically migrates between the two. In this report we present a domain specific language, the S3DB query language (S3QL), to operate on its underlying core model and facilitate management of Linked Data. Reflecting the data driven nature of our approach, S3QL has been implemented as an application programming interface for S3DB systems hosting biomedical data, and its syntax was subsequently generalized beyond the S3DB core model. This achievement is illustrated with the assembly of an S3QL query to manage entities from the Simple Knowledge Organization System. The illustrative use cases include gastrointestinal clinical trials, genomic characterization of cancer by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and molecular epidemiology of infectious diseases. S3QL was found to provide a convenient mechanism to represent context for interoperation between public and private datasets hosted at biomedical research institutions and linked data formalisms.

  3. Microstructure Characterization of Fiber Laser Welds of S690QL High-Strength Steels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Baoming; Xu, Peiquan; Lu, Fenggui; Gong, Hongying; Cui, Haichao; Liu, Chuangen

    2018-02-01

    The use of fiber laser welding to join S690QL steels has attracted interest in the field of construction and assembly. Herein, 13-mm-thick S690QL welded joints were obtained without filler materials using the fiber laser. The as-welded microstructures and the impact energies of the joints were characterized and measured using electron microscopy in conjunction with high-resolution transmission electron images, X-ray diffraction, and impact tests. The results indicated that a single-sided welding technique could be used to join S690QL steels up to a thickness of 12 mm (fail to fuse the joint in the root) when the laser power is equal to 12 kW (scan speed 1 m/min). Double-side welding technique allows better weld penetration and better control of heat distribution. Observation of the samples showed that the fusion zone exhibited bainitic and martensitic microstructures with increased amounts of martensites (Ms) compared with the base materials. Also, the grains in the fusion zone increased in coarseness as the heat input was increased. The fusion zone exhibited increased hardness (397 HV0.2) while exhibiting a simultaneous decrease in the impact toughness. The maximum impact energy value of 26 J was obtained from the single-side-welded sample, which is greater than those obtained from the double-side-welded samples (maximum of 18 J). Many more dislocations and plastic deformations were found in the fusion zone than the heat-affected zone in the joint, which hardened the joints and lowered the impact toughness. The microstructures characterized by FTEM-energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer also exhibited laths of M, as well as stacking faults and dislocations featuring high-density, interfacial structure ledges that occur between the high-angle grain boundaries and the M and bainite.

  4. Health-Related Quality of Life and Cognitive Functioning from the Perspective of Parents of School-Aged Children with Asperger's Syndrome Utilizing the PedsQL[TM

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Limbers, Christine A.; Heffer, Robert W.; Varni, James W.

    2009-01-01

    HRQOL as a multidimensional construct has not been previously investigated in children with Asperger's Syndrome. The objective of the present study was to examine the initial feasibility, reliability, and validity of the PedsQL[TM] 4.0 Generic Core Scales and PedsQL[TM] Cognitive Functioning Scale parent proxy-report versions in school-aged…

  5. A study of the development of the Korean version of PedsQL(TM) 3.0 cerebral palsy module and reliability and validity.

    PubMed

    Yun, Young-Ju; Shin, Yong-Beom; Kim, Soo-Yeon; Shin, Myung-Jun; Kim, Ra-Jin; Oh, Tae-Young

    2016-07-01

    [Purpose] The purpose of this study was to develop the Korean version of the PedsQL(TM) 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module to evaluate the health-related quality of life of children with cerebral palsy and to test the reliability and validity. [Subjects and Methods] The study included 108 caregivers of children with cerebral palsy aged 2 to 4 years and 72 caregivers of children aged 5 to 7 years, who visited multiple sites between February and August 2015. The Translation Commission performed the first translation with the approval of the Mapi Research Trust Company to create a Korean-version of the PedsQL(TM). Afterwards, back-translation was performed by one translator specializing in health and medical treatment who was a native English-speaker fluent in Korean, and one native Korean-speaker fluent in English. The consistency of each question was confirmed and a translation-integrated version was created. Test components were explained to caregivers during a one-on-one interview; caregivers then completed the PedsQL(TM) questionnaire and a Pediatric Evaluation Disability Inventory (PEDI) questionnaire. Subjects contributing to test-retest measures were asked to repeat the PedsQL questionnaire one week later and return it by mail. To assess data quality for the survey question results, non-response rate, ceiling effect, and floor effect were analyzed. Test-retest reliability and internal consistency reliability were assessed. For test-retest reliability, an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated, and for internal consistency reliability, Cronbach's alpha was used. To test criterion-related validity, Pearson's correlation coefficient was used. [Results] The content validity of the PedsQL 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module was high for both age groups, and demonstrated significant internal consistency (>0.7) in all areas. For test-retest reliability, both groups demonstrated a significant ICC (>0.61). Correlation with the PEDI was statistically significant in

  6. Trunk Muscle Size and Composition Assessment in Older Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain: An Intra-Examiner and Inter-Examiner Reliability Study.

    PubMed

    Sions, Jaclyn Megan; Smith, Andrew Craig; Hicks, Gregory Evan; Elliott, James Matthew

    2016-08-01

    To evaluate intra- and inter-examiner reliability for the assessment of relative cross-sectional area, muscle-to-fat infiltration indices, and relative muscle cross-sectional area, i.e., total cross-sectional area minus intramuscular fat, from T1-weighted magnetic resonance images obtained in older adults with chronic low back pain. Reliability study. n = 13 (69.3 ± 8.2 years old) After lumbar magnetic resonance imaging, two examiners produced relative cross-sectional area measurements of multifidi, erector spinae, psoas, and quadratus lumborum by tracing regions of interest just inside fascial borders. Pixel-intensity summaries were used to determine muscle-to-fat infiltration indices; relative muscle cross-sectional area was calculated. Intraclass correlation coefficients were used to estimate intra- and inter-examiner reliability; standard error of measurement was calculated. Intra-examiner intraclass correlation coefficient point estimates for relative cross-sectional area, muscle-to-fat infiltration indices, and relative muscle cross-sectional area were excellent for multifidi and erector spinae across levels L2-L5 (ICC = 0.77-0.99). At L3, intra-examiner reliability was excellent for relative cross-sectional area, muscle-to-fat infiltration indices, and relative muscle cross-sectional area for both psoas and quadratus lumborum (ICC = 0.81-0.99). Inter-examiner intraclass correlation coefficients ranged from poor to excellent for relative cross-sectional area, muscle-to-fat infiltration indices, and relative muscle cross-sectional area. Assessment of relative cross-sectional area, muscle-to-fat infiltration indices, and relative muscle cross-sectional area in older adults with chronic low back pain can be reliably determined by one examiner from T1-weighted images. Such assessments provide valuable information, as muscle-to-fat infiltration indices and relative muscle cross-sectional area indicate that a substantial amount of relative cross

  7. Cross-cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity of the Turkish version of PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module: a quality-of-life measure for patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in Turkey.

    PubMed

    Tarakci, E; Baydogan, S N; Kasapcopur, O; Dirican, A

    2013-04-01

    The aim of this study was to describe the cultural adaptation, validity, and reliability of a Turkish version of the pediatric quality-of-life inventory (PedsQL) 3.0 Arthritis Module in a population with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). A total of 169 patients with JIA and their parents were enrolled in the study. The Turkish version of the childhood health assessment questionnaire (CHAQ) was used to evaluate the validity of related domains in the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module. Both the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module and CHAQ were filled out by children over 8 years of age and by the parents of children 2-7 years of age. Internal reliability was poor to excellent (Cronbach's alpha coefficients 0.56-0.84 for self-reporting and 0.63-0.82 for parent reporting), and interobserver reliability varied from good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.79-0.91 for self-reporting and 0.80-0.88 for parent reporting) for the total scores of the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module. Parent-child concordance for all scores was moderate to excellent (ICC 0.42-0.92). The PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module and CHAQ were highly positively correlated, with coefficients from 0.21 to 0.76, indicating concurrent validity. We demonstrated the reliability and validity of quality-of-life measurement using the Turkish version of the PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module in our sociocultural context. The PedsQL 3.0 Arthritis Module can be utilized as a tool for the evaluation of quality of life in patients with JIA aged 2-18 years.

  8. Bioinformatics Analysis and Characterization of Highly Efficient Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)-Degrading Enzymes from the Novel PVA Degrader Stenotrophomonas rhizophila QL-P4.

    PubMed

    Wei, Yahong; Fu, Jing; Wu, Jianying; Jia, Xinmiao; Zhou, Yunheng; Li, Cuidan; Dong, Mengxing; Wang, Shanshan; Zhang, Ju; Chen, Fei

    2018-01-01

    Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is used widely in industry, and associated environmental pollution is a serious problem. Herein, we report a novel, efficient PVA degrader, Stenotrophomonas rhizophila QL-P4, isolated from fallen leaves from a virgin forest in the Qinling Mountains. The complete genome was obtained using single-molecule real-time (SMRT) technology and corrected using Illumina sequencing. Bioinformatics analysis revealed eight PVA/vinyl alcohol oligomer (OVA)-degrading genes. Of these, seven genes were predicted to be involved in the classic intracellular PVA/OVA degradation pathway, and one (BAY15_3292) was identified as a novel PVA oxidase. Five PVA/OVA-degrading enzymes were purified and characterized. One of these, BAY15_1712, a PVA dehydrogenase (PVADH), displayed high catalytic efficiency toward PVA and OVA substrate. All reported PVADHs only have PVA-degrading ability. Most importantly, we discovered a novel PVA oxidase (BAY15_3292) that exhibited higher PVA-degrading efficiency than the reported PVADHs. Further investigation indicated that BAY15_3292 plays a crucial role in PVA degradation in S. rhizophila QL-P4. Knocking out BAY15_3292 resulted in a significant decline in PVA-degrading activity in S. rhizophila QL-P4. Interestingly, we found that BAY15_3292 possesses exocrine activity, which distinguishes it from classic PVADHs. Transparent circle experiments further proved that BAY15_3292 greatly affects extracellular PVA degradation in S. rhizophila QL-P4. The exocrine characteristics of BAY15_3292 facilitate its potential application to PVA bioremediation. In addition, we report three new efficient secondary alcohol dehydrogenases (SADHs) with OVA-degrading ability in S. rhizophila QL-P4; in contrast, only one OVA-degrading SADH was reported previously. IMPORTANCE With the widespread application of PVA in industry, PVA-related environmental pollution is an increasingly serious issue. Because PVA is difficult to degrade, it accumulates in aquatic

  9. Validation of the PedsQL Epilepsy Module: A pediatric epilepsy-specific health-related quality of life measure.

    PubMed

    Modi, Avani C; Junger, Katherine F; Mara, Constance A; Kellermann, Tanja; Barrett, Lauren; Wagner, Janelle; Mucci, Grace A; Bailey, Laurie; Almane, Dace; Guilfoyle, Shanna M; Urso, Lauryn; Hater, Brooke; Hustzi, Heather; Smith, Gigi; Herrmann, Bruce; Perry, M Scott; Zupanc, Mary; Varni, James W

    2017-11-01

    To validate a brief and reliable epilepsy-specific, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measure in children with various seizure types, treatments, and demographic characteristics. This national validation study was conducted across five epilepsy centers in the United States. Youth 5-18 years and caregivers of youth 2-18 years diagnosed with epilepsy completed the PedsQL Epilepsy Module and additional questionnaires to establish reliability and validity of the epilepsy-specific HRQOL instrument. Demographic and medical data were collected through chart reviews. Factor analysis was conducted, and internal consistency (Cronbach's alphas), test-retest reliability, and construct validity were assessed. Questionnaires were analyzed from 430 children with epilepsy (M age = 9.9 years; range 2-18 years; 46% female; 62% white: non-Hispanic; 76% monotherapy, 54% active seizures) and their caregivers. The final PedsQL Epilepsy Module is a 29-item measure with five subscales (i.e., Impact, Cognitive, Sleep, Executive Functioning, and Mood/Behavior) with parallel child and caregiver reports. Internal consistency coefficients ranged from 0.70-0.94. Construct validity and convergence was demonstrated in several ways, including strong relationships with seizure outcomes, antiepileptic drug (AED) side effects, and well-established measures of executive, cognitive, and emotional/behavioral functioning. The PedsQL Epilepsy Module is a reliable measure of HRQOL with strong evidence of its validity across the epilepsy spectrum in both clinical and research settings. Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 International League Against Epilepsy.

  10. The PedsQL in pediatric cerebral palsy: reliability and validity of the Chinese version pediatric quality of life inventory 4.0 generic core scales and 3.0 cerebral palsy module.

    PubMed

    Yang, Xue; Xiao, Nong; Yan, Jianying

    2011-03-01

    This investigation examines the reliability, validity, and sensitivity of the Chinese version Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 cerebral palsy (CP) Module in pediatric CP. The study sample was comprised of 126 parents of children with CP between the ages of 2 and 12 years including 18 child respondents 5-12 years of age. Mean age of the 87 boys (69.0%) and 39 girls (31.0%) was 4 years 1 month (SD 2 years 2 month). Reliability was demonstrated for the PedsQL 4.0 (α = 0.86 child, 0.89 parent) and CP Module (α = 0.91 child, 0.96 parent). The PedsQL 4.0 distinguished between healthy children and children with CP. Construct validity of the CP Module was supported through an analysis of the intercorrelations between the Generic Core Scale scores and the CP Module Scale scores and exploratory factor analysis of PedsQL items. The findings provide support for the measurement properties of the Chinese version PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 CP Module in pediatric CP.

  11. Measuring health-related quality of life in children with cancer living in Mainland China: feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese Mandarin version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module.

    PubMed

    Ji, Yi; Chen, Siyuan; Li, Kai; Xiao, Nong; Yang, Xue; Zheng, Shan; Xiao, Xianmin

    2011-11-23

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) is widely used instrument to measure pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for children aged 2 to 18 years. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese mandarin version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module in a group of Chinese children with cancer. The PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales and the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module were administered to children with cancer (aged 5-18 years) and parents of such children (aged 2-18 years). For comparison, a survey on a demographically group-matched sample of the general population with children (aged 5-18) and parents of children (aged 2-18 years) was conducted with the PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales. The minimal mean percentage of missing item responses (except the School Functioning scale) supported the feasibility of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module for Chinese children with cancer. Most of the scales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's α of exceeding 0.70, and all scales demonstrated sufficient test-retest reliability. Assessing the clinical validity of the questionnaires, statistically significant difference was found between healthy children and children with cancer, and between children on-treatment versus off-treatment ≥12 months. Positive significant correlations were observed between the scores of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scale and the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module. Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated sufficient factorial validity. Moderate to good agreement was found between child self- and parent proxy-reports. The findings support the feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese Mandarin version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module in children with cancer living in mainland China.

  12. Longitudinal factorial invariance of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales child self-report Version: one year prospective evidence from the California State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Newman, Daniel A; Seid, Michael

    2008-11-01

    The measurement of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in pediatric medicine and health services research has grown significantly over the past decade. The paradigm shift toward patient-reported outcomes (PROs) has provided the opportunity to emphasize the value and critical need for pediatric patient self-report. In order for changes in HRQOL/PRO outcomes to be meaningful over time, it is essential to demonstrate longitudinal factorial invariance. This study examined the longitudinal factor structure of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales over a one-year period for child self-report ages 5-17 in 2,887 children from a statewide evaluation of the California State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) utilizing a structural equation modeling framework. Specifying four- and five-factor measurement models, longitudinal structural equation modeling was used to compare factor structures over a one-year interval on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. While the four-factor conceptually-derived measurement model for the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales produced an acceptable fit, the five-factor empirically-derived measurement model from the initial field test of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales produced a marginally superior fit in comparison to the four-factor model. For the five-factor measurement model, the best fitting model, strict factorial invariance of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales across the two measurement occasions was supported by the stability of the comparative fit index between the unconstrained and constrained models, and several additional indices of practical fit including the root mean squared error of approximation, the non-normed fit index, and the parsimony normed fit index. The findings support an equivalent factor structure on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales over time. Based on these data, it can be concluded that over a one-year period children in our study interpreted items on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in a similar manner.

  13. Measuring health-related quality of life in children with cancer living in mainland China: feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese mandarin version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Background The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) is widely used instrument to measure pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for children aged 2 to 18 years. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese mandarin version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module in a group of Chinese children with cancer. Methods The PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales and the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module were administered to children with cancer (aged 5-18 years) and parents of such children (aged 2-18 years). For comparison, a survey on a demographically group-matched sample of the general population with children (aged 5-18) and parents of children (aged 2-18 years) was conducted with the PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales. Result The minimal mean percentage of missing item responses (except the School Functioning scale) supported the feasibility of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module for Chinese children with cancer. Most of the scales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's α of exceeding 0.70, and all scales demonstrated sufficient test-retest reliability. Assessing the clinical validity of the questionnaires, statistically significant difference was found between healthy children and children with cancer, and between children on-treatment versus off-treatment ≥12 months. Positive significant correlations were observed between the scores of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scale and the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module. Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated sufficient factorial validity. Moderate to good agreement was found between child self- and parent proxy-reports. Conclusion The findings support the feasibility, reliability and validity of the Chinese Mandarin version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cancer Module in children with cancer living in mainland China. PMID:22111968

  14. OC19 - Measuring feasibility, reliability and validity of the Greek version of PedsQL cardiac module.

    PubMed

    Drakouli, Maria; Petsios, Konstantinos; Matziou, Vasiliki

    2016-05-09

    Theme: Cardiology Introduction: Measuring quality of life (QoL) in children and adolescents with congenital heart disease (CHD) is of great clinical importance. The aim of the study was: (a) to adapt the PedsQL Cardiac Module for children aged two to 18 years with CHD in a sample of the Greek population; (b) to determine its reliability and validity. Forward and backward translation methodology was used. Parents and children completed the instrument during: (a) hospitalization and (b) visits in the paediatric cardiology outpatient department. Cross-informant variance between children and parents was thoroughly assessed. Missing item responses did not exceed 5%. All internal consistency reliability coefficients for the inventory exceeded the minimum standards for group comparisons, over 0.75. Hypothesized correlations between cardiac module and core scales were statistically significant, (p<0.05). Agreement between children and parents was relatively high. Pilot study results will be additionally presented. The findings support the feasibility, reliability and validity of the Greek translation of the PedsQL Cardiac Module in children with congenital heart defect (CHD).

  15. Quantification of pronator quadratus contribution to isometric pronation torque of the forearm.

    PubMed

    McConkey, Mark O; Schwab, Timothy D; Travlos, Andrew; Oxland, Thomas R; Goetz, Thomas

    2009-11-01

    The contribution of the pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle in generation of pronation torque has not been determined. The purpose of this study was to investigate pronation torque in healthy volunteers before and after temporary paralysis of the PQ with lidocaine, under electromyographic guidance. A custom apparatus was designed to allow isometric testing of pronation torque at 5 positions of rotation: 90 degrees of supination, 45 degrees of supination, neutral, 45 degrees of pronation, and 80 degrees of pronation. After validation of the apparatus, 17 (9 male, 8 female) right-hand-dominant volunteers were recruited. They were tested at all 5 positions in random order and then had their PQ muscles paralyzed with lidocaine. Repeat testing was performed in the same random order 30 minutes after injection. Three unblinded subjects underwent testing after injection of saline instead of lidocaine to determine effect of fluid volume alone on PQ function. The validation trial demonstrated reproducibility of the testing apparatus. After paralysis of PQ with lidocaine, pronation torque decreased by an average 21% (range, 16.7% to 23.2%) at all positions compared with preinjection testing. All were statistically significant except at 80 degrees of pronation. The subjects who underwent injection of saline showed no evidence of decrease in pronation torque. This study demonstrated a significant decrease in pronation torque with controlled elimination of PQ function. Open reduction and internal fixation of distal radius fractures damages the PQ and may result in a pronation torque deficit. Pronation torque measurement may help in postoperative outcome analysis of surgical procedures using the volar approach to the distal radius.

  16. Validation of the Korean version of the pediatric quality of life inventory 4.0 (PedsQL) generic core scales in school children and adolescents using the Rasch model.

    PubMed

    Kook, Seung Hee; Varni, James W

    2008-06-02

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) is a child self-report and parent proxy-report instrument designed to assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in healthy and ill children and adolescents. It has been translated into over 70 international languages and proposed as a valid and reliable pediatric HRQOL measure. This study aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Korean translation of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Following the guidelines for linguistic validation, the original US English scales were translated into Korean and cognitive interviews were administered. The field testing responses of 1425 school children and adolescents and 1431 parents to the Korean version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were analyzed utilizing confirmatory factor analysis and the Rasch model. Consistent with studies using the US English instrument and other translation studies, score distributions were skewed toward higher HRQOL in a predominantly healthy population. Confirmatory factor analysis supported a four-factor and a second order-factor model. The analysis using the Rasch model showed that person reliabilities are low, item reliabilities are high, and the majority of items fit the model's expectation. The Rasch rating scale diagnostics showed that PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in general have the optimal number of response categories, but category 4 (almost always a problem) is somewhat problematic for the healthy school sample. The agreements between child self-report and parent proxy-report were moderate. The results demonstrate the feasibility, validity, item reliability, item fit, and agreement between child self-report and parent proxy-report of the Korean version of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for school population health research in Korea. However, the utilization of the Korean version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for healthy school populations needs to consider low person reliability, ceiling effects and cultural

  17. Observation of reflected electrons driven quasi- longitudinal (QL) whistlers in large laboratory plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sanyasi, A. K.; Awasthi, L. M.; Srivastava, P. K.; Mattoo, S. K.; Sharma, D.; Singh, R.; Paikaray, R.; Kaw, P. K.

    2017-10-01

    This paper reports experimental and theoretical investigations on plasma turbulence in the source plasma of a Large Volume Plasma Device. It is shown that a highly asymmetrical localized thin rectangular slab of strong plasma turbulence is excited by loss cone instability. The position of the slab coincides with the injection line of the primary ionizing energetic electrons. Outside the slab, in the core, the turbulence is weaker by a factor of 30 . The plasma turbulence consists of oblique [ θ=tan-1(k⊥/k||)≈87 ° ] Quasi-Longitudinal (QL) electromagnetic whistlers in a broad band of 40 kHzQL) whistlers by Booker and Dyce [Radio Sci. J. Res 69D (1965)] for excitation of the plasma turbulence in the magnetosphere.

  18. Validation of the Japanese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Cancer Module.

    PubMed

    Tsuji, Naoko; Kakee, Naoko; Ishida, Yasushi; Asami, Keiko; Tabuchi, Ken; Nakadate, Hisaya; Iwai, Tsuyako; Maeda, Miho; Okamura, Jun; Kazama, Takuro; Terao, Yoko; Ohyama, Wataru; Yuza, Yuki; Kaneko, Takashi; Manabe, Atsushi; Kobayashi, Kyoko; Kamibeppu, Kiyoko; Matsushima, Eisuke

    2011-04-10

    The PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module is a widely used instrument to measure pediatric cancer specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for children aged 2 to 18 years. We developed the Japanese version of the PedsQL Cancer Module and investigated its reliability and validity among Japanese children and their parents. Participants were 212 children with cancer and 253 of their parents. Reliability was determined by internal consistency using Cronbach's coefficient alpha and test-retest reliability using intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC). Validity was assessed through factor validity, convergent and discriminant validity, concurrent validity, and clinical validity. Factor validity was examined by exploratory factor analysis. Convergent and discriminant validity were examined by multitrait scaling analysis. Concurrent validity was assessed using Spearman's correlation coefficients between the Cancer Module and Generic Core Scales, and the comparison of the scores of child self-reports with those of other self-rating depression scales for children. Clinical validity was assessed by comparing the on- and off- treatment scores using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. Cronbach's coefficient alpha was over 0.70 for the total scale and over 0.60 for each subscale by age except for the 'pain and hurt' subscale for children aged 5 to 7 years. For test-retest reliability, the ICC exceeded 0.70 for the total scale for each age. Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated sufficient factorial validity. Multitrait scaling analysis showed high success rates. Strong correlations were found between the reports by children and their parents, and the scores of the Cancer Module and the Generic Core Scales except for 'treatment anxiety' subscales for child reports. The Depression Self-Rating Scale for Children (DSRS-C) scores were significantly correlated with emotional domains and the total score of the cancer module. Children who had been off treatment over 12 months

  19. Classification of longissimus lumborum muscle spindle afferents in the anaesthetized cat

    PubMed Central

    Durbaba, R; Taylor, A; Ellaway, P H; Rawlinson, S

    2006-01-01

    Recordings have been made from 127 single muscle spindle afferents from the longissimus lumborum muscles of anaesthetized cats. They have been characterized by their responses to passive muscle stretch and the effects of succinylcholine (SCh) and by their sensitivity to vibration. The use of SCh permitted the assessment for each afferent of the influence of bag1 (b1) and bag2 (b2) intrafusal muscle fibres. From this, on the assumption that all afferents were affected by chain (c) fibres, they were classified in four groups: b1b2c (41.9%), b2c (51.4%), b1c (1.3%) and c (5.4%). All the afferents with b1 influence were able to respond one to one to vibration at frequencies above 100 Hz and were considered to belong to primary endings. On the basis of the vibration test, 64% of the b2c type afferents appeared to be primaries and 36% secondaries. Of the units classified as primaries, 41% were designated as b2c and would not therefore be able to respond to dynamic fusimotor activity. The significance of this relatively high proportion of b2c-type spindle primary afferents is discussed in relation to the specialized postural function of the back muscles. PMID:16410280

  20. Raman spectroscopy compared against traditional predictors of shear force in lamb m. longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Fowler, Stephanie M; Schmidt, Heinar; van de Ven, Remy; Wynn, Peter; Hopkins, David L

    2014-12-01

    A Raman spectroscopic hand held device was used to predict shear force (SF) of 80 fresh lamb m. longissimus lumborum (LL) at 1 and 5days post mortem (PM). Traditional predictors of SF including sarcomere length (SL), particle size (PS), cooking loss (CL), percentage myofibrillar breaks and pH were also measured. SF values were regressed against Raman spectra using partial least squares regression and against the traditional predictors using linear regression. The best prediction of shear force values used spectra at 1day PM to predict shear force at 1day which gave a root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 13.6 (Null=14.0) and the R(2) between observed and cross validated predicted values was 0.06 (R(2)cv). Overall, for fresh LL, the predictability SF, by either the Raman hand held probe or traditional predictors was low. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Toxicity of binary chemical munition destruction products: methylphosphonic acid, methylphosphinic acid, 2-diisopropylaminoethanol, DF neutralent, and QL neutralent.

    PubMed

    Watson, Rebecca E; Hafez, Ahmed M; Kremsky, Jonathan N; Bizzigotti, George O

    2007-01-01

    This paper reports the toxicity and environmental impact of neutralents produced from the hydrolysis of binary chemical agent precursor chemicals DF (methylphosphonic difluoride) and QL (2-[bis(1-methylethyl)amino]ethyl ethyl methylphosphonite). Following a literature review of the neutralent mixtures and constituents, basic toxicity tests were conducted to fill data gaps, including acute oral and dermal median lethal dose assays, the Ames mutagenicity test, and ecotoxicity tests. For methylphosphonic acid (MPA), a major constituent of DF neutralent, the acute oral LD(50) in the Sprague-Dawley rat was measured at 1888 mg/kg, and the Ames test using typical tester strains of Salmonella typhimurium and Escherichia coli was negative. The 48-h LC(50) values for pH-adjusted DF neutralent with Daphnia magna and Cyprinodon variegatus were > 2500 mg/L and 1593 mg/L, respectively. The acute oral LD(50) values in the rat for QL neutralent constituents methylphosphinic acid (MP) and 2-diisopropylaminoethanol (KB) were both determined to be 940 mg/kg, and the Ames test was negative for both. Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)-compliant ecotoxicity tests for MP and KB gave 48-h D. magna EC(50) values of 6.8 mg/L and 83 mg/L, respectively. GLP-compliant 96-h C. variegatus assays on MP and KB gave LC(50) values of 73 and 252 mg/L, respectively, and NOEC values of 22 and 108 mg/L. QL neutralent LD(50) values for acute oral and dermal toxicity tests were both > 5000 mg/kg, and the 48-h LD(50) values for D. magna and C. variegatus were 249 and 2500 mg/L, respectively. Using these data, the overall toxicity of the neutralents was assessed.

  2. Interpretability of the PedsQL gastrointestinal symptoms scales and gastrointestinal worry scales in pediatric patients with functional and organic gastrointestinal diseases

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The present study investigates the clinical interpretability of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventor (PedsQL) Gastrointestinal Symptoms Scales and Worry Scales in pediatric patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders or organic gastrointestinal diseases in comparison with healthy controls....

  3. Factors influencing agreement between child self-report and parent proxy-reports on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL) generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Cremeens, Joanne; Eiser, Christine; Blades, Mark

    2006-08-30

    In situations where children are unable or unwilling to respond for themselves, measurement of quality of life (QOL) is often obtained by parent proxy-report. However the relationship between child self and parent proxy-reports has been shown to be poor in some circumstances. Additionally the most appropriate statistical method for comparing ratings between child and parent proxy-reports has not been clearly established. The objectives of this study were to assess the: 1) agreement between child and parent proxy-reports on an established child QOL measure (the PedsQL) using two different statistical methods; 2) effect of chronological age and domain type on agreement between children's and parents' reports on the PedsQL; 3) relationship between parents' own well-being and their ratings of their child's QOL. One hundred and forty-nine healthy children (5.5 - 6.5, 6.5 - 7.5, and 7.5 - 8.5 years) completed the PedsQL. One hundred and three of their parents completed these measures in relation to their child, and a measure of their own QOL (SF-36). Consistency between child and parent proxy-reports on the PedsQL was low, with Intra-Class correlation coefficients ranging from 0.02 to 0.23. Correlations were higher for the oldest age group for Total Score and Psychosocial Health domains, and for the Physical Health domain in the youngest age group. Statistically significant median differences were found between child and parent-reports on all subscales of the PedsQL. The largest median differences were found for the two older age groups. Statistically significant correlations were found between parents' own QOL and their proxy-reports of child QOL across the total sample and within the middle age group. Intra-Class correlation coefficients and median difference testing can provide different information on the relationship between parent proxy-reports and child self-reports. Our findings suggest that differences in the levels of parent-child agreement previously reported

  4. Initial validation of the Argentinean Spanish version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in children and adolescents with chronic diseases: acceptability and comprehensibility in low-income settings.

    PubMed

    Roizen, Mariana; Rodríguez, Susana; Bauer, Gabriela; Medin, Gabriela; Bevilacqua, Silvina; Varni, James W; Dussel, Veronica

    2008-08-07

    To validate the Argentinean Spanish version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in Argentinean children and adolescents with chronic conditions and to assess the impact of socio-demographic characteristics on the instrument's comprehensibility and acceptability. Reliability, and known-groups, and convergent validity were tested. Consecutive sample of 287 children with chronic conditions and 105 healthy children, ages 2-18, and their parents. Chronically ill children were: (1) attending outpatient clinics and (2) had one of the following diagnoses: stem cell transplant, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, HIV/AIDS, cancer, end stage renal disease, complex congenital cardiopathy. Patients and adult proxies completed the PedsQL 4.0 and an overall health status assessment. Physicians were asked to rate degree of health status impairment. The PedsQL 4.0 was feasible (only 9 children, all 5 to 7 year-olds, could not complete the instrument), easy to administer, completed without, or with minimal, help by most children and parents, and required a brief administration time (average 5-6 minutes). People living below the poverty line and/or low literacy needed more help to complete the instrument. Cronbach Alpha's internal consistency values for the total and subscale scores exceeded 0.70 for self-reports of children over 8 years-old and parent-reports of children over 5 years of age. Reliability of proxy-reports of 2-4 year-olds was low but improved when school items were excluded. Internal consistency for 5-7 year-olds was low (alpha range = 0.28-0.76). Construct validity was good. Child self-report and parent proxy-report PedsQL 4.0 scores were moderately but significantly correlated (rho = 0.39, p < 0.0001) and both significantly correlated with physician's assessment of health impairment and with child self-reported overall health status. The PedsQL 4.0 discriminated between healthy and chronically ill children (72.72 and 66.87, for healthy and ill children

  5. Measuring health-related quality of life in young adolescents: reliability and validity in the Norwegian version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL) generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Reinfjell, Trude; Diseth, Trond H; Veenstra, Marijke; Vikan, Arne

    2006-09-14

    Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQOL) studies concerning children and adolescents are a growing field of research. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) is considered as a promising HRQOL instrument with the availability of age appropriate versions and parallel forms for both child and parents. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Norwegian translation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scale in a sample of healthy young adolescents. A cross-sectional study of 425 healthy young adolescents and 237 of their caregivers participating as a proxy. Reliability was assessed by Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis and by exploring the intercorrelations between and among the four PedsQL subscales for adolescents and their parents. All the self-report scales and proxy-report scales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's alpha varying between 0.77 and 0.88. Factor analysis showed results comparable with the original version, except for the Physical Health scale. On average, monotrait-multimethod correlations were higher than multitrait-multimethod correlations. Sex differences were noted on the emotional functioning subscale, girls reported lower HRQOL than boys. The Norwegian PedsQL is a valid and reliable generic pediatric health-related Quality of Life measurement that can be recommended for self-reports and proxy-reports for children in the age groups ranging from 13-15 years.

  6. [Rasch Model in the Validation of the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0™) in Colombian Children and Adolescents].

    PubMed

    Vélez, Claudia Marcela; Villada Ramírez, Adriana C; Arias, Ana Carolina Amaya; Eslava-Schmalbach, Javier H

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to validate the PedsQL 4.0™ in Colombian children and adolescents using the Rasch model. The Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0™) has demonstrated to be a reliable and sensitive measurement to changes in health status, as well as being quick and easy to use. Validation study of measurement tools. The PedsQL 4.0™ was applied to a convenience sample of 375 children and adolescents between 5 and 17 years old and 500 caregivers of children between 2 and 18 years old in five Colombian cities. The psychometric properties were analysed according to the Rasch model, including adjustment, separation, and differential item functioning (DIF). The Rasch model provided adequate fits to data. The social dimension, for both versions, had greater difficulty than the physical health dimension. Internal consistency for the items was observed, while for individuals, the values of reliability and separation were lower than that established. The DIF occurred in very few variables, especially when comparing cities. The characteristic curves for the items presented disordered thresholds. The items had adequate internal consistency. Analysis showed adequate individual separation, but disordered thresholds were found in the response categories. No DIF was observed by sex or disease, but it is noteworthy that the DIF occurred between cities. Copyright © 2016 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

  7. Color attributes and oxidative stability of longissimus lumborum and psoas major muscles from Nellore bulls.

    PubMed

    Canto, Anna C V C S; Costa-Lima, Bruno R C; Suman, Surendranath P; Monteiro, Maria Lucia G; Viana, Fernanda M; Salim, Ana Paula A A; Nair, Mahesh N; Silva, Teofilo J P; Conte-Junior, Carlos A

    2016-11-01

    The influence of muscle source on color stability of fresh beef from purebred Bos indicus cattle was investigated. Longissimus lumborum (LL) and psoas major (PM) muscles obtained from twelve (n=12) Nellore bull carcasses (24h post-mortem) were fabricated into 2.54-cm steaks, aerobically packaged, and stored at 4°C for nine days. Steaks were analyzed on day 0 for proximate composition and myoglobin concentration, whereas pH, instrumental color, metmyoglobin reducing activity (MRA), lipid oxidation, and protein oxidation were evaluated on days 0, 3, 6, and 9. LL steaks exhibited greater (P<0.05) redness, color stability, and MRA than PM counterparts. On the other hand, PM steaks demonstrated greater (P<0.05) myoglobin content, lipid oxidation, and protein oxidation than LL steaks. These results indicated the critical influence of muscle source on discoloration of fresh beef from Bos indicus animals and suggested the necessity to engineer muscle-specific strategies to improve color stability and marketability of beef from Bos indicus cattle. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  8. Summary of Proton Test on the Quick Logic QL3025 at Indiana University

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Katz, Richard

    1998-01-01

    This issue of the Programmable Logic Application Notes is a compilation of topics: (1) Proton irradiation tests were performed on the Quick Logic QL3025 at the Indian University Cyclotron facility. The devices, tests, and results are discussed; (2) The functional failure of EEPROM's in heavy ion environment is presented; (3) the Act 1 architecture is summarized; (4) Antifuse hardness and hardness testing is updated; the single even upset (SEU) response of hardwired flip-flops is also presented; (4) Total dose results of the ACT 2 and ACT 3 circuits is presented in a chart; (5) Recent sub-micron devices testing of total dose is presented in a chart along with brief discussion; and (6) a reference to the WWW site for more articles of interest.

  9. PedsQL gastrointestinal symptoms scales and gastrointestinal worry scales in pediatric patients with functional and organic gastrointestinal diseases in comparison to healthy controls

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The primary objective was to compare the gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and worry of pediatric patients with functional GI disorders (FGIDs) and organic GI diseases to healthy controls utilizing the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Worry Scales for patient s...

  10. Effect of electrical stimulation and hot boning on the eating quality of Gannan yak longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Lang, Yumiao; Sha, Kun; Zhang, Rui; Xie, Peng; Luo, Xin; Sun, Baozhong; Li, Haipeng; Zhang, Li; Zhang, Songshan; Liu, Xuan

    2016-02-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of electrical stimulation (ES) versus non-electrical stimulation (NES) and type of boning (hot versus cold) on the eating quality of Gannan yak longissimus lumborum. Eighteen Gannan yak bulls were randomly divided into two groups: ES and NES. Hot boning (HB) and cold boning (CB) were applied to the left and right side of the carcasses, respectively. All of the four treatments missed the "ideal" pH/temperature window. HB reduced the rate of pH decline, decreased meat tenderness and water holding capacity. ES increased the rate of pH decline and improved yak meat tenderness (P<0.05); however, ES explained only 1% of the variation in WBSF. HB and ES had no significant effects on cooking loss, L* or b* values of yak meat. Postmortem aging increased yak meat tenderness and improved meat color parameters. HB had negative effects on yak meat quality, while ES could not reverse these deleterious effects. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Examination of the pronator quadratus muscle during hardware removal procedures after volar plating for distal radius fractures.

    PubMed

    Nho, Jae-Hwi; Gong, Hyun Sik; Song, Cheol Ho; Wi, Seung Myung; Lee, Young Ho; Baek, Goo Hyun

    2014-09-01

    It is not clear whether the pronator quadratus (PQ) muscle actually heals and provides a meaningful pronation force after volar plating for distal radius fractures (DRFs). We aimed to determine whether the length of the PQ muscle, which is dissected and then repaired during volar plating for a DRF, affects the forearm rotation strength and clinical outcomes. We examined 41 patients who requested hardware removal after volar plating. We measured the isokinetic forearm rotation strength and clinical outcomes including grip strength, wrist range of motion, and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) scores at 6 months after fracture fixation. During the hardware removal surgery, which was performed at an average of 9 months (range, 8.3 to 11.5 months) after fracture fixation, we measured the PQ muscle length. The average PQ muscle length was 68% of the normal muscle length, and no significant relationship was found between the PQ muscle length and the outcomes including isokinetic forearm rotation strength, grip strength, wrist range of motion, and DASH scores. This study demonstrates that the length of the healed PQ muscle does not affect isokinetic forearm rotation strength and clinical outcomes after volar plating for DRFs. The results of this study support our current practice of loose repair of the PQ that is performed by most of the surgeons to prevent tendon irritation over the plate, and suggest that tight repair of the PQ is not necessary for achieving improved forearm function.

  12. Impaired health-related quality of life in children and adolescents with chronic conditions: a comparative analysis of 10 disease clusters and 33 disease categories/severities utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Burwinkle, Tasha M

    2007-07-16

    Advances in biomedical science and technology have resulted in dramatic improvements in the healthcare of pediatric chronic conditions. With enhanced survival, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) issues have become more salient. The objectives of this study were to compare generic HRQOL across ten chronic disease clusters and 33 disease categories/severities from the perspectives of patients and parents. Comparisons were also benchmarked with healthy children data. The analyses were based on over 2,500 pediatric patients from 10 physician-diagnosed disease clusters and 33 disease categories/severities and over 9,500 healthy children utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Patients were recruited from general pediatric clinics, subspecialty clinics, and hospitals. Pediatric patients with diabetes, gastrointestinal conditions, cardiac conditions, asthma, obesity, end stage renal disease, psychiatric disorders, cancer, rheumatologic conditions, and cerebral palsy self-reported progressively more impaired overall HRQOL than healthy children, respectively, with medium to large effect sizes. Patients with cerebral palsy self-reported the most impaired HRQOL, while patients with diabetes self-reported the best HRQOL. Parent proxy-reports generally paralleled patient self-report, with several notable differences. The results demonstrate differential effects of pediatric chronic conditions on patient HRQOL across diseases clusters, categories, and severities utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales from the perspectives of pediatric patients and parents. The data contained within this study represents a larger and more diverse population of pediatric patients with chronic conditions than previously reported in the extant literature. The findings contribute important information on the differential effects of pediatric chronic conditions on generic HRQOL from the perspectives of children and parents utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. These findings

  13. [Cross-cultural Adaptation of the PedsQL Questionnaire Cancer Module, Version 3.0 for Use in Colombia].

    PubMed

    Fontibón, Luis Fernando; Ardila, Sandra Liliana; Sánchez, Ricardo

    Quality of life is an important outcome in paediatric cancer patients. Its evaluation at different times during the clinical course of the disease is essential for clinical practice focused on the needs of the patients. There is not a specific assessment tool for this purpose in Colombia. To perform the cultural adaptation of the quality of life scale PedsQL (Paediatric Quality of Life) Cancer Module, Version 3.0 for use in Colombia. Permission for use of the scale was obtained and the algorithm steps of the Mapi Research Trust group were followed: Direct and independent translations of scale by two native Colombian Spanish speaking translators, obtaining a preliminary version from the translations. This was followed by a back translation by a native English speaking translator and a review of the process by the author of the scale, inclusion of suggestions, and implementation of the pilot study. Direct translations were similar in the instructions and response options; a consensus meeting in 8 of the 27 items was required to choose the best translation. The author made no suggestions and gave his endorsement to the implementation of the pilot, in which, 2 items were modified in order to improve their understanding. There is a Colombian Spanish version of the PedsQL questionnaire 3.0 Cancer Module, to be submitted for a validation study prior to its use in the assessment of quality of life in paediatric cancer patients. Copyright © 2016 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

  14. Leveraging North Carolina's QL2 Lidar to Quantify Sensitivity of National Water Model Derived Flood Inundation Extent to DEM Resolution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lovette, J. P.; Lenhardt, W. C.; Blanton, B.; Duncan, J. M.; Stillwell, L.

    2017-12-01

    The National Water Model (NWM) has provided a novel framework for near real time flood inundation mapping across CONUS at a 10m resolution. In many regions, this spatial scale is quickly being surpassed through the collection of high resolution lidar (1 - 3m). As one of the leading states in data collection for flood inundation mapping, North Carolina is currently improving their previously available 20 ft statewide elevation product to a Quality Level 2 (QL2) product with a nominal point spacing of 0.7 meters. This QL2 elevation product increases the ground points by roughly ten times over the previous statewide lidar product, and by over 250 times when compared to the 10m NED elevation grid. When combining these new lidar data with the discharge estimates from the NWM, we can further improve statewide flood inundation maps and predictions of at-risk areas. In the context of flood risk management, these improved predictions with higher resolution elevation models consistently represent an improvement on coarser products. Additionally, the QL2 lidar also includes coarse land cover classification data for each point return, opening the possibility for expanding analysis beyond the use of only digital elevation models (e.g. improving estimates of surface roughness, identifying anthropogenic features in floodplains, characterizing riparian zones, etc.). Using the NWM Height Above Nearest Drainage approach, we compare flood inundation extents derived from multiple lidar-derived grid resolutions to assess the tradeoff between precision and computational load in North Carolina's coastal river basins. The elevation data distributed through the state's new lidar collection program provide spatial resolutions ranging from 5-50 feet, with most inland areas also including a 3 ft product. Data storage increases by almost two orders of magnitude across this range, as does processing load. In order to further assess the validity of the higher resolution elevation products on

  15. Influence of extended aging on beef quality characteristics and sensory perception of steaks from the gluteus medius and longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Colle, M J; Richard, R P; Killinger, K M; Bohlscheid, J C; Gray, A R; Loucks, W I; Day, R N; Cochran, A S; Nasados, J A; Doumit, M E

    2015-12-01

    The objective was to determine the influence of post-fabrication aging (2, 14, 21, 42, and 63 days) on beef quality characteristics and consumer sensory perception of gluteus medius (GM) and longissimus lumborum (LL) steaks. Lipid oxidation and aerobic plate counts increased (P<0.05) with longer aging periods and retail display times. An aging period by day of retail display interaction (P<0.05) was observed for a* and b* values for both muscles and L* values for the LL. Warner-Bratzler shear force values decreased (P<0.05) with longer aging for the LL, while no difference was observed for the GM. Consumer panel results demonstrated that longer aging periods increased (P<0.05) tenderness of both muscles. Our results indicate that extended aging reduces retail color stability yet has positive effects on consumer perception of tenderness of beef loin muscles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Gait in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: kinematics and electromyographic analysis

    PubMed Central

    Banse, X.; Mousny, M.; Detrembleur, C.

    2009-01-01

    Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a progressive growth disease that affects spinal anatomy, mobility, and left-right trunk symmetry. Consequently, AIS can modify human locomotion. Very few studies have investigated a simple activity like walking in a cohort of well-defined untreated patients with scoliosis. The first goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of scoliosis and scoliosis severity on kinematic and electromyographic (EMG) gait variables compared to an able-bodied population. The second goal is to look for any asymmetry in these parameters during walking. Thirteen healthy girls and 41 females with untreated AIS, with left thoracolumbar or lumbar primary structural curves were assessed. AIS patients were divided into three clinical subgroups (group 1 < 20°, group 2 between 20 and 40°, and group 3 > 40°). Gait analysis included synchronous bilateral kinematic and EMG measurements. The subjects walked on a treadmill at 4 km/h (comfortable speed). The tridimensional (3D) shoulder, pelvis, and lower limb motions were measured using 22 reflective markers tracked by four infrared cameras. The EMG timing activity was measured using bipolar surface electrodes on quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, gluteus medius, rectus femoris, semitendinosus, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles. Statistical comparisons (ANOVA) were performed across groups and sides for kinematic and EMG parameters. The step length was reduced in AIS compared to normal subjects (7% less). Frontal shoulder, pelvis, and hip motion and transversal hip motion were reduced in scoliosis patients (respectively, 21, 27, 28, and 22% less). The EMG recording during walking showed that the quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, gluteus medius, and semitendinosus muscles contracted during a longer part of the stride in scoliotic patients (46% of the stride) compared with normal subjects (35% of the stride). There was no significant difference between scoliosis groups 1, 2, and 3 for

  17. Gait in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: kinematics and electromyographic analysis.

    PubMed

    Mahaudens, P; Banse, X; Mousny, M; Detrembleur, C

    2009-04-01

    Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) is a progressive growth disease that affects spinal anatomy, mobility, and left-right trunk symmetry. Consequently, AIS can modify human locomotion. Very few studies have investigated a simple activity like walking in a cohort of well-defined untreated patients with scoliosis. The first goal of this study is to evaluate the effects of scoliosis and scoliosis severity on kinematic and electromyographic (EMG) gait variables compared to an able-bodied population. The second goal is to look for any asymmetry in these parameters during walking. Thirteen healthy girls and 41 females with untreated AIS, with left thoracolumbar or lumbar primary structural curves were assessed. AIS patients were divided into three clinical subgroups (group 1 < 20 degrees, group 2 between 20 and 40 degrees, and group 3 > 40 degrees). Gait analysis included synchronous bilateral kinematic and EMG measurements. The subjects walked on a treadmill at 4 km/h (comfortable speed). The tridimensional (3D) shoulder, pelvis, and lower limb motions were measured using 22 reflective markers tracked by four infrared cameras. The EMG timing activity was measured using bipolar surface electrodes on quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, gluteus medius, rectus femoris, semitendinosus, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius muscles. Statistical comparisons (ANOVA) were performed across groups and sides for kinematic and EMG parameters. The step length was reduced in AIS compared to normal subjects (7% less). Frontal shoulder, pelvis, and hip motion and transversal hip motion were reduced in scoliosis patients (respectively, 21, 27, 28, and 22% less). The EMG recording during walking showed that the quadratus lumborum, erector spinae, gluteus medius, and semitendinosus muscles contracted during a longer part of the stride in scoliotic patients (46% of the stride) compared with normal subjects (35% of the stride). There was no significant difference between scoliosis groups 1

  18. Prediction of intramuscular fat content and major fatty acid groups of lamb M. longissimus lumborum using Raman spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Fowler, Stephanie M; Ponnampalam, Eric N; Schmidt, Heinar; Wynn, Peter; Hopkins, David L

    2015-12-01

    A hand held Raman spectroscopic device was used to predict intramuscular fat (IMF) levels and the major fatty acid (FA) groups of fresh intact ovine M. longissimus lumborum (LL). IMF levels were determined using the Soxhlet method, while FA analysis was conducted using a rapid (KOH in water, methanol and sulphuric acid in water) extraction procedure. IMF levels and FA values were regressed against Raman spectra using partial least squares regression and against each other using linear regression. The results indicate that there is potential to predict PUFA (R(2)=0.93) and MUFA (R(2)=0.54) as well as SFA values that had been adjusted for IMF content (R(2)=0.54). However, this potential was significantly reduced when correlations between predicted and observed values were determined by cross validation (R(2)cv=0.21-0.00). Overall, the prediction of major FA groups using Raman spectra was more precise (relative reductions in error of 0.3-40.8%) compared to the null models. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Adolescent self-report and parent proxy-report of health-related quality of life: an analysis of validity and reliability of PedsQL 4.0 among a sample of Malaysian adolescents and their parents.

    PubMed

    Kaartina, Sanker; Chin, Yit Siew; Fara Wahida, Rezali; Woon, Fui Chee; Hiew, Chu Chien; Zalilah, Mohd Shariff; Mohd Nasir, Mohd Taib

    2015-04-08

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) 4.0 is a generalized assessment of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) based on adolescent self-report and parent proxy-report. This study aims to determine the construct validity and reliability of PedsQL 4.0 among a sample of Malaysian adolescents and parents. A cross-sectional study was carried out at three selected public schools in the state of Selangor. A total of 379 Malaysian adolescents completed the PedsQL 4.0 adolescent self-report and 218 (55.9%) parents completed the PedsQL 4.0 parent proxy-report. Weight and height of adolescents were measured and BMI-for-age by sex was used to determine their body weight status. There were 50.8% male and 49.2% female adolescents who participated in this study (14.25 ± 1.23 years). The prevalence of overweight and obesity (25.8%) was four times higher than the prevalence of severe thinness and thinness (6.1%). Construct validity was analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Based on CFA, adolescent self-report and parent proxy-report met the criteria of convergent validity (factor loading > 0.5, Average Variance Extracted (AVE) > 0.5, Construct Reliability > 0.7) and showed good fit to the data. The adolescent self-report and parent proxy-report exhibited discriminant validity as the AVE values were larger than the R(2) values. Cronbach's alpha coefficients of the adolescent self-report (α = 0.862) and parent proxy-report (α = 0.922) showed these instruments are reliable. Parents perceived the HRQoL of adolescents was poorer compared to the perception of the adolescent themselves (t = 5.92, p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in total HRQoL score between male and female adolescents (t = 0.858, p > 0.05). Parent proxy-report was negatively associated with the adolescents' BMI-for-age (r = -0.152, p < 0.05) whereas no significant association was found between adolescent self-report and BMI-for-age (r = 0.001, p > 0

  20. Effects of chilled-then-frozen storage (up to 52weeks) on lamb M. longissimus lumborum quality and safety parameters.

    PubMed

    Coombs, Cassius E O; Holman, Benjamin W B; Collins, Damian; Friend, Michael A; Hopkins, David L

    2017-12-01

    This study evaluated the effect of chilled followed by frozen storage on lamb quality and safety parameters. Experimental (n=360) M. longissimus lumborum (LL) were randomly sampled from the boning room of a commercial Australian abattoir, at 24 h post-mortem, and assigned to five chilled storage periods (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks) and six subsequent frozen storage periods (0, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 52 weeks). Upon completion of each storage treatment combination, corresponding LL were sub-sectioned and analysed for colour stability (0, 1, 2 and 3 days), shear force, fluid losses (purge, thaw and cooking losses), intramuscular fat content, sarcomere length, water activity and microbial load (lactic acid bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae sp., Brochothrix thermosphacta, Clostridium perfringens and Escherichia coli). LL stored chilled for 2-4 weeks prior to freezing presented superior results for shear force, display colour and low levels of spoilage microbes, correlating with good eating quality and safety following more than one year of frozen storage. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Effect of pulsed electric field on the proteolysis of cold boned beef M. Longissimus lumborum and M. Semimembranosus.

    PubMed

    Suwandy, Via; Carne, Alan; van de Ven, Remy; Bekhit, Alaa El-Din A; Hopkins, David L

    2015-02-01

    The effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) and ageing (3, 7, 14 and 21 days) on the shear force, protein profile, and post-mortem proteolysis of beef loins (M. Longissimus lumborum, LL) and topsides (M. Semimembranosus, SM) were investigated using a range of pulsed electric field treatments [voltages (5 and 10 kV) and frequencies (20, 50, and 90 Hz)]. PEF treatment decreased the shear force of beef LL and SM muscles by up to 19%. The reduction in the shear force in the LL was not affected by the treatment intensity whereas the reduction in the SM was dependent on PEF frequency. PEF treated beef loins showed increased proteolysis, both early post-mortem and during subsequent post-mortem storage reflected by increased degradation of troponin-T and desmin. The most prominent troponin-T degradation was found in samples treated with 5 kV-90 Hz, 10 kV-20 Hz at day 3 and day 7 post-treatment in addition to 10 kV-50 Hz in subsequent post-treatment times. The degradation of desmin in PEF treated beef loins increased with ageing time.

  2. Measuring health-related quality of life in children living in HIV/AIDS-affected families in rural areas in Yunnan, China: Preliminary reliability and validity of the Chinese version of PedsQL 4.0 generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Xu, Tao; Wu, Zunyou; Yan, Zhihua; Rou, Keming; Duan, Song

    2010-02-01

    To investigate the preliminary reliability and validity of the Chinese Mandarin version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales in a sample of general children and children living in HIV/AIDS-affected families. The PedsQL 4.0 was administered to 116 children aged 8-18 years from HIV/AIDS-affected families and 115 of their caregivers. The questionnaire was also administered to a control group of 109 children and 107 of their caregivers. Most of the self-report and proxy-report scales in both groups exceeded the reliability standard of 0.70, whereas the self-report emotional functioning and school functioning subscales were slightly less than 0.70. On average, children living in HIV/AIDS-affected families scored significantly lower than the control group. The level of agreement between self-reports and proxy reports was low. Correlations were higher on average for the younger age group than for the older age group. The Chinese Mandarin version of PedsQL 4.0 is a valid and reliable instrument for use with children living in HIV families. The health-related quality of life for children living in HIV families is lower than children from ordinary families.

  3. Assessment of the meat quality of lamb M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum and M. triceps brachii following three different Halal slaughter procedures.

    PubMed

    Danso, A S; Richardson, R I; Khalid, R

    2017-05-01

    A total of fifteen male and fifteen female lambs were allocated to three groups of ten animals and subjected to: traditional Halal slaughter without stunning (TNS); slaughter following electric head-only stunning (EHOS) or; post-cut electric head-only stun (PCEHOS) and their meat quality was determined. Instrumental and sensory analyses were carried out on two muscles; M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and M. triceps brachii (TB). Additionally, the effects of sex and muscle type were also assessed. No differences were found among slaughter methods for pH, drip loss and shear force. TB had a higher pHu and was more tender than LTL. Muscles from EHOS and PCEHOS lambs discoloured more quickly than TNS muscles. There were no differences in the measured sensory attributes, with the exception of EHOS meat being tougher than PCEHOS and TNS meat. This study showed that the three slaughter methods had no substantial effect on lamb meat quality. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Health-related quality of life in young adults in education, employment, or training: development of the Japanese version of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version.

    PubMed

    Kaneko, Mei; Sato, Iori; Soejima, Takafumi; Kamibeppu, Kiyoko

    2014-09-01

    The purpose of the study is to develop a Japanese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version (PedsQL-YA-J) and determine the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the scales. Translation equivalence and content validity were verified using back-translation and cognitive debriefing tests. A total of 428 young adults recruited from one university, two vocational schools, or five companies completed questionnaires. We determined questionnaire feasibility, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability; checked concurrent validity against the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D); determined convergent and discriminant validity with the Medical Outcome Study 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36); described known-groups validity with regard to subjective symptoms, illness or injury requiring regular medical visits, and depression; and verified factorial validity. All scales were internally consistent (Cronbach's coefficient alpha = 0.77-0.86); test-retest reliability was acceptable (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.57-0.69); and all scales were concurrently valid with depression (Pearson's correlation coefficient = 0.43-0.57). The scales convergent and discriminant validity with the SF-36 and CES-D were acceptable. Evaluation of known-groups validity confirmed that the Physical Functioning scale was sensitive for subjective symptoms, the Emotional Functioning scale for depression, and the Work/School Functioning scale for illness or injury requiring regular medical visits. Exploratory factor analysis found a six-factor structure consistent with the assumed structure (cumulative proportion = 57.0%). The PedsQL-YA-J is suitable for assessing health-related quality of life in young adults in education, employment, or training, and for clinical trials and epidemiological research.

  5. Meat quality attributes of the Longissimus lumborum muscle of the Kh'ara genotype of llama (Lama glama) reared extensively in northern Chile.

    PubMed

    Mamani-Linares, L W; Gallo, C B

    2013-05-01

    Twenty male llama of the Kh'ara genotype, reared extensively in the north of Chile, were slaughtered at ages between 2 and 4 permanent teeth (2 to 3.5years) and analyses were carried out on the Longissimus lumborum muscle, including composition (moisture, fat, protein, ash, cholesterol, amino acids, fatty acid profile and collagen content) and meat quality parameters (pH, color, water holding capacity and Warner-Bratzler shear-force). Llama meat was characterized by a low cholesterol (39.04mg/100g) and intramuscular fat (1.56%) content, a total collagen content of 6.28mg/g, of which 20.28% was soluble collagen. Amino acid composition and fatty acid profile were similar to those found for beef finished on forage. Llama meat showed a low n-6/n-3 (4.69) and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic (1.55) ratio and acceptable values of DFA (65.78%). Quality parameters in llama Longissimus muscle were within the ranges reported for more traditional meats such as beef and lamb. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Effect of polymorphisms at the ghrelin gene locus on carcass, microstructure and physicochemical properties of longissimus lumborum muscle of Polish Landrace pigs.

    PubMed

    Wojtysiak, Dorota; Kaczor, Urszula

    2011-12-01

    The influence of RFLP-BsrI polymorphisms at the ghrelin gene locus on carcass, meat quality parameters and muscle fiber characteristics of longissimus lumborum was studied in 168 barrows of the Polish Landrace breed. Analysis revealed a high frequency of the 1 allele (0.60) with the frequencies of the 11, 12 and 22 genotypes being 0.45, 0.30 and 0.25, respectively. The most favorable parameters of meat traits were characteristic of pigs with the 22 genotype, together with a higher carcass and loin weight and lower thermal loss compared to 12 heterozygotes. The highest fat content was found in pigs with the 11 genotype, which had the highest abdominal fat weight and mean backfat thickness. Meanwhile, the 12 heterozygotes were characterized by the largest loin eye areas, highest lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) values, and lowest redness (a*) values, as well as the greatest hardness and chewiness and largest diameter of type IIB muscle fibers compared to the other genotypes. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. How young can children reliably and validly self-report their health-related quality of life?: an analysis of 8,591 children across age subgroups with the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Burwinkle, Tasha M

    2007-01-03

    The last decade has evidenced a dramatic increase in the development and utilization of pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures in an effort to improve pediatric patient health and well-being and determine the value of healthcare services. The emerging paradigm shift toward patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in clinical trials has provided the opportunity to further emphasize the value and essential need for pediatric patient self-reported outcomes measurement. Data from the PedsQL DatabaseSM were utilized to test the hypothesis that children as young as 5 years of age can reliably and validly report their HRQOL. The sample analyzed represented child self-report age data on 8,591 children ages 5 to 16 years from the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales DatabaseSM. Participants were recruited from general pediatric clinics, subspecialty clinics, and hospitals in which children were being seen for well-child checks, mild acute illness, or chronic illness care (n = 2,603, 30.3%), and from a State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) in California (n = 5,988, 69.7%). Items on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales had minimal missing responses for children as young as 5 years old, supporting feasibility. The majority of the child self-report scales across the age subgroups, including for children as young as 5 years, exceeded the minimum internal consistency reliability standard of 0.70 required for group comparisons, while the Total Scale Scores across the age subgroups approached or exceeded the reliability criterion of 0.90 recommended for analyzing individual patient scale scores. Construct validity was demonstrated utilizing the known groups approach. For each PedsQL scale and summary score, across age subgroups, including children as young as 5 years, healthy children demonstrated a statistically significant difference in HRQOL (better HRQOL) than children with a known chronic health condition, with most effect sizes in the medium to large effect

  8. The use of electromyography and magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate a core strengthening exercise programme.

    PubMed

    Rutkowska-Kucharska, Alicja; Szpala, Agnieszka

    2018-01-01

    The question that was asked in the study was whether a training routine based on curl-up exercises with a load provided by body mass of the person increases local muscle strength or local muscle endurance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 4 weeks training based on a small load and low movement velocity on electrical activity (EMG), cross-sectional area (CSA) of core stabilisers. The EMG activity was measured in the rectus abdominis (RA), obliquus abdominis externus and erector spinae (ES) muscles. CSA of the muscles: RA, anterolateral abdominal, psoas major, quadratus lumborum, ES, and multifidus at the level of L3-L4 were measured too. The training increased the CSA and thickness in most of the muscles studied. Statistically significant correlation was found only for the ES circumference (left side) and EMG activity for the right side (r= 0.627, p= 0.022) and left side (r= 0.624, p= 0.023). The training programme resulted in a increase in the number of curl-up repetitions revealing an endurance increase in abdominal muscles. Furthermore, there was a increase in the EMG activity of the RA. An increase of the CSA of all tested muscles showed an increase of muscle active force.

  9. The biomechanical effects of variation in the maximum forces exerted by trunk muscles on the joint forces and moments in the lumbar spine: a finite element analysis.

    PubMed

    Kim, K; Lee, S K; Kim, Y H

    2010-10-01

    The weakening of trunk muscles is known to be related to a reduction of the stabilization function provided by the muscles to the lumbar spine; therefore, strengthening deep muscles might reduce the possibility of injury and pain in the lumbar spine. In this study, the effect of variation in maximum forces of trunk muscles on the joint forces and moments in the lumbar spine was investigated. Accordingly, a three-dimensional finite element model of the lumbar spine that included the trunk muscles was used in this study. The variation in maximum forces of specific muscle groups was then modelled, and joint compressive and shear forces, as well as resultant joint moments, which were presumed to be related to spinal stabilization from a mechanical viewpoint, were analysed. The increase in resultant joint moments occurred owing to decrease in maximum forces of the multifidus, interspinales, intertransversarii, rotatores, iliocostalis, longissimus, psoas, and quadratus lumborum. In addition, joint shear forces and resultant joint moments were reduced as the maximum forces of deep muscles were increased. These results from finite element analysis indicate that the variation in maximum forces exerted by trunk muscles could affect the joint forces and joint moments in the lumbar spine.

  10. Extracting near-surface QL between 1-4 Hz from higher-order noise correlations in the Euroseistest area, Greece

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Haendel, A.; Ohrnberger, M.; Krüger, F.

    2016-11-01

    Knowledge of the quality factor of near-surface materials is of fundamental interest in various applications. Attenuation can be very strong close to the surface and thus needs to be properly assessed. In recent years, several researchers have studied the retrieval of attenuation coefficients from the cross correlation of ambient seismic noise. Yet, the determination of exact amplitude information from noise-correlation functions is, in contrast to the extraction of traveltimes, not trivial. Most of the studies estimated attenuation coefficients on the regional scale and within the microseism band. In this paper, we investigate the possibility to derive attenuation coefficients from seismic noise at much shallower depths and higher frequencies (>1 Hz). The Euroseistest area in northern Greece offers ideal conditions to study quality factor retrieval from ambient noise for different rock types. Correlations are computed between the stations of a small scale array experiment (station spacings <2 km) that was carried out in the Euroseistest area in 2011. We employ the correlation of the coda of the correlation (C3) method instead of simple cross correlations to mitigate the effect of uneven noise source distributions on the correlation amplitude. Transient removal and temporal flattening are applied instead of 1-bit normalization in order to retain relative amplitudes. The C3 method leads to improved correlation results (higher signal-to-noise ratio and improved time symmetry) compared to simple cross correlations. The C3 functions are rotated from the ZNE to the ZRT system and we focus on Love wave arrivals on the transverse component and on Love wave quality factors QL. The analysis is performed for selected stations being either situated on soft soil or on weathered rock. Phase slowness is extracted using a slant-stack method. Attenuation parameters are inferred by inspecting the relative amplitude decay of Love waves with increasing interstation distance. We

  11. Proteomic investigation of protein profile changes and amino acid residue-level modification in cooked lamb longissimus thoracis et lumborum: The effect of roasting.

    PubMed

    Yu, Tzer-Yang; Morton, James D; Clerens, Stefan; Dyer, Jolon M

    2016-09-01

    Protein modifications of meat cooked by typical dry-heat methods (e.g., roasting) are currently not well understood. The present study utilised a shotgun proteomic approach to examine the molecular-level effect of roasting on thin lamb longissimus thoracis et lumborum patties, in terms of changes to both the protein profile and amino acid residue side-chain modifications. Cooking caused aggregation of actin, myosin heavy chains and sarcoplasmic proteins. Longer roasting time resulted in significantly reduced protein extractability as well as protein truncation involving particularly a number of myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins, e.g., 6-phosphofructokinase, beta-enolase, l-lactate dehydrogenase A chain, alpha-actinin-3, actin and possibly myosin heavy chains. Modifications that have potential influence on nutritional properties, including carboxyethyllysine and a potentially glucose-derived N-terminal Amadori compound, were observed in actin and myoglobin after roasting. This study provided new insights into molecular changes resulting from the dry-heat treatment of meat, such as commonly used in food preparation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Carcass quality, physico-chemical parameters, muscle fibre traits and myosin heavy chain composition of m. longissimus lumborum from Puławska and Polish Large White pigs.

    PubMed

    Wojtysiak, Dorota; Połtowicz, Katarzyna

    2014-08-01

    In 54 Puławska pigs and 60 Polish Large White pigs (PLW), slaughtered at 30 and 100 kg body weight, carcass and meat quality of m. longissimus lumborum were studied. Analysis revealed that in both examined body weight groups, hot carcass weight, carcass yield percentage, meat content, and weight of ham and carcass ham percentage were significantly lower and backfat thickness higher for Puławska pigs compared to PLW pigs, while PLW pigs exhibited significantly longer carcasses, greater loin eye area, and, in the case of lighter pigs, smaller proportion of loin in the carcass. Muscles of Puławska pigs, in the lighter group, had higher IMF content and a* value, while in the heavier group they exhibited higher pH(45), pH(24) and a* values, lower L*, drip loss, WHC, and thermal loss compared with PLW pigs. PLW pigs had higher WB and hardness values and more glycolytic muscles characterised by higher TNF. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Use of cluster analysis and preference mapping to evaluate consumer acceptability of choice and select bovine M. longissimus lumborum steaks cooked to various end-point temperatures.

    PubMed

    Schmidt, T B; Schilling, M W; Behrends, J M; Battula, V; Jackson, V; Sekhon, R K; Lawrence, T E

    2010-01-01

    Consumer research was conducted to evaluate the acceptability of choice and select steaks from the Longissimus lumborum that were cooked to varying degrees of doneness using demographic information, cluster analysis and descriptive analysis. On average, using data from approximately 155 panelists, no differences (P>0.05) existed in consumer acceptability among select and choice steaks, and all treatment means ranged between like slightly and like moderately (6-7) on the hedonic scale. Individual consumers were highly variable in their perception of acceptability and consumers were grouped into clusters (eight for select and seven for choice) based on their preference and liking of steaks. The largest consumer groups liked steaks from all treatments, but other groups preferred (P<0.05) steaks that were cooked to various end-point temperatures. Results revealed that consumers could be grouped together according to preference, liking and descriptive sensory attributes, (juiciness, tenderness, bloody, metallic, and roasted) to further understand consumer perception of steaks that were cooked to different end-point temperatures.

  14. The effects of horse riding simulation exercise on muscle activation and limits of stability in the elderly.

    PubMed

    Kim, Seong-Gil; Lee, Jung-Ho

    2015-01-01

    This study aimed to investigate the effect of horse riding simulation (HRS) on balance and trunk muscle activation as well as to provide evidence of the therapeutic benefits of the exercise. Thirty elderly subjects were recruited from a medical care hospital and randomly divided into an experimental and a control group. The experimental group performed the HRS exercise for 20 min, 5 times a week, for 8 weeks, and conventional therapy was also provided as usual. The muscle activation and limits of stability (LOS) were measured. The LOS significantly increased in the HRS group (p<0.05) but not in the control group (p>0.05). The activation of all muscles significantly increased in the HRS group. However, in the control group, the muscle activations of the lateral low-back (external oblique and quadratus lumborum) and gluteus medius (GM) significantly decreased, and there was no significant difference in other muscles. After the intervention, the LOS and all muscle activations significantly increased in the HRS group compared with the control group. The results suggest that the HRS exercise is effective for reducing the overall risk of falling in the elderly. Thus, it is believed that horse riding exercise would help to increase dynamic stability and to prevent elderly people from falling. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Effects of chilled-then-frozen storage (up to 52weeks) on an indicator of protein oxidation and indices of protein degradation in lamb M. longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Coombs, Cassius E O; Holman, Benjamin W B; Collins, Damian; Kerr, Matthew J; Friend, Michael A; Hopkins, David L

    2018-01-01

    This study investigated the protein oxidation properties of lamb following chilled-then-frozen storage. Experimental (n=360) M. longissimus lumborum (LL) were randomly sampled from the boning room of a commercial Australian abattoir, at 24h post mortem, and assigned to five chilled storage periods (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8weeks) and six subsequent frozen storage periods (0, 4, 8, 12, 24 and 52weeks). Upon completion of each storage treatment combination, corresponding LL were sub-sectioned and analysed for carbonyl content, protein solubility, nitrate/nitrite content, particle size analysis and estimated myoglobin fractions. The association between these protein measures and shear force was also explored. During chilled storage, particle size and sarcoplasmic protein solubility decreased which indicated protein degradation, while frozen storage only affected myoglobin oxidation. Tenderness was best explained by decreased particle size, decreased deoxymyoglobin and increased oxymyoglobin. No carbonyl effects were observed. It can be concluded that, according to these analyses, that in chilled-then-frozen lamb carbonyl formation was negligible. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Factorial invariance of child self-report across age subgroups: a confirmatory factor analysis of ages 5 to 16 years utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Limbers, Christine A; Newman, Daniel A; Varni, James W

    2008-01-01

    The utilization of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measurement in an effort to improve pediatric health and well-being and determine the value of health care services has grown dramatically over the past decade. The paradigm shift toward patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in clinical trials has provided the opportunity to emphasize the value and essential need for pediatric patient self-report. In order for HRQOL/PRO comparisons to be meaningful for subgroup analyses, it is essential to demonstrate factorial invariance. This study examined age subgroup factorial invariance of child self-report for ages 5 to 16 years on more than 8,500 children utilizing the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales. Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis (MGCFA) was performed specifying a five-factor model. Two multigroup structural equation models, one with constrained parameters and the other with unconstrained parameters, were proposed to compare the factor loadings across the age subgroups. Metric invariance (i.e., equal factor loadings) across the age subgroups was demonstrated based on stability of the Comparative Fit Index between the two models, and several additional indices of practical fit including the Root Mean Squared Error of Approximation, the Non-Normed Fit Index, and the Parsimony Normed Fit Index. The findings support an equivalent five-factor structure across the age subgroups. Based on these data, it can be concluded that children across the age subgroups in this study interpreted items on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales in a similar manner regardless of their age.

  17. The impact of pediatric nephrotic syndrome on parents' health-related quality of life and family functioning: an assessment made by the PedsQL 4.0 family impact module.

    PubMed

    Mishra, Kirtisudha; Ramachandran, Smita; Firdaus, Saima; Rath, Bimbadhar

    2015-03-01

    The multi-dimensional impact on the quality of life (QOL) of families of children with the nephrotic syndrome (NS) has not been studied sufficiently in the literature. We aimed to study this aspect and the predictors of poor QOL among Indian families having children with NS. A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the parents of children with chronic NS on treatment for at least one year with parents of a matched healthy control group. The parents of both groups were asked to complete the standard self-administered multi-dimensional questionnaire of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4 (PedsQL TM ) Family Impact Module (FIM). Descriptive and analytical statistics were performed to compare scores between the two groups. Possible predictors of poor outcome in each of the summary scales among the cases were assessed by both univariate and multivariate analysis. The parents of 61 cases and 72 controls completed the PedsQL TM FIM questionnaire. The scores in each of the categories, namely FIM Total Scale Score, Parent HRQOL Summary Score, Family Functioning Summary Score and eight individual domains, were found to be significantly higher among controls. Female gender of the affected child was an independent risk factor for poor Family Functioning Summary Score. Also, presence of serious complications during the course of the disease independently predicted poor Total FIM and Parent HRQOL Summary Scores. Even a relatively benign and potentially curable chronic disorder in children, like the NS, can disturb the QOL of parents in multiple domains of functioning.

  18. Effects of dietary oil blend on fatty acid composition, oxidative stability and physicochemical properties of Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle in goats.

    PubMed

    Adeyemi, Kazeem Dauda; Sabow, Azad Behnan; Abubakar, Ahmed; Samsudin, Anjas Asmara; Sazili, Awis Qurni

    2016-11-01

    This study examined the effects of dietary blend of 80% canola oil and 20% palm oil (BCPO) on the physicochemical properties, antioxidant status, oxidative stability and fatty acid composition of Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle from goats during chill storage. Over a 14-week feeding trial, 24 Boer bucks were randomly assigned to and supplemented with diets containing 0, 4 or 8% BCPO on a dry matter basis, slaughtered and the LTL was subjected to a 7 day chill storage. Neither diet nor post mortem ageing influenced (P > 0.05) antioxidant enzyme activities, chemical composition and cholesterol. Diet had no effect on the carbonyl content, free thiol content, water-holding capacity, tenderness, pH and glycogen. Oil-supplemented goats had higher (P < 0.05) C18:1 trans-11, C18:3n-3 and C20:5n-3, carotenoid, tocopherol and redness, and lower thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values than the control goats. Post mortem ageing decreased (P < 0.05) shear force and oxidative stability of chevon. No significant (P > 0.05) changes were found in the proportion of individual fatty acids throughout storage. Total polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) decreased while total saturated fatty acids increased as storage progressed. Dietary BCPO enhanced n-3 PUFA without compromising the quality attributes of chevon. © 2016 Japanese Society of Animal Science.

  19. Sports injuries in an America's Cup yachting crew: A 4-year epidemiological study covering the 2007 challenge.

    PubMed

    Hadała, Michał; Barrios, Carlos

    2009-05-01

    The aim of this study was to describe the injuries sustained by an America's Cup crew during eight preparatory competitions of the 32nd America's Cup 2007 and the Louis Vuitton Cup (from October 2004 to June 2007). The anatomical location, type of injury, and mechanism of injury were recorded. The injuries were categorized based on each sailor's position on the boat according to three intensities of physical demands. The injury rates per sailor and per 1000 h of competition were determined. In total, 90 injuries were registered. The overall incidence was 10 injuries per 1000 competition hours. Overuse injuries accounted for 76.6% of all lesions. The most common anatomical location of injuries was the upper limb (36.6%), followed by the upper dorsal and cervical spine (34.4%). Frequency of injury was related to the sailor's position on the boat, being higher in the group with more demanding activities (grinder, bowman, and mastman). Most injuries (67%) were sustained by this group of sailors. The most common injuries in this group were muscle contractures of the quadratus lumborum (11), trapezius (8), and rhomboid (7). There were eight cases of elbow epicondylitis, four cases of tendinopathy of the supraspinous tendon, and three cases of tendinopathy of the biceps brachii. An America's Cup yachting crew is exposed to a high risk of overuse injuries, especially those sailors whose boat position involves high-intensity activity.

  20. Effects of fibre type and structure of longissimus lumborum (Ll), biceps femoris (Bf) and semimembranosus (Sm) deer muscles salting with different Nacl addition on proteolysis index and texture of dry-cured meats.

    PubMed

    Żochowska-Kujawska, J

    2016-11-01

    The aim of the present study was to describe the effect of fibre type and structure as well as NaCl level on the proteolysis index and texture parameters observed in dry-cured meats produced from individual deer muscles. The biceps femoris, semimembranosus and longissimus lumborum muscles were cut from deer main elements, shaped into blocks by trimming off the edges, cured by adding 4, 6 and 8% of salt (w/w) and dried in a ripening chamber for 29days. The results indicated that deer dry-cured muscles with higher percentage of red fibres (type I) showed higher texture parameters, proteolysis index as well as lower moisture losses than muscles with higher amount of white fibres (type IIB). Dry-cured deer muscles with lower NaCl content showed higher values of proteolysis index and lower hardness, cohesiveness, springiness, and chewiness, as well as lower changes in structure elements. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  1. Compartment syndrome of the foot.

    PubMed

    Andermahr, J; Helling, H J; Tsironis, K; Rehm, K E; Koebke, J

    2001-05-01

    The hindfoot compartment syndrome occurs in 10% of cases after calcaneal fracture. We analyzed the pathological anatomical reasons for this syndrome using the 10 feet from cadavers plastinated and cut into 4-mm thick sequential sections. CT scans of patients with calcaneal fractures were then compared with the anatomical findings. The key component of this compartment syndrome is the quadratus plantae muscle. The sustentacular calcaneal fragment causes bleeding from the bone or the medial calcaneal arteries into this compartment. The medial and lateral plantar nerves and vessels are then compressed between the quadratus plantae muscle and the short flexor digitorum muscle. Relieving pressure by surgical decompression of the quadratus plantae compartment via a medial or plantar approach is the recommended treatment. Copyright 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

  2. Influence of intramuscular fat content on the quality of pig meat - 2. Consumer acceptability of m. longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Fernandez, X; Monin, G; Talmant, A; Mourot, J; Lebret, B

    1999-09-01

    The present study is part of a project which aimed to examine the influence of intramuscular fat (IMF) content on sensory attributes and consumer acceptability of pork. Two experiments were conducted to evaluate consumer acceptability of pork chops with varying IMF level in muscle Longissimus lumborum (LL). Each experiment used 32 castrated male pigs selected after slaughter either from 125 Duroc × Landrace (Experiment 1) or 102 Tia Meslan × Landrace (Experiment 2) crossbred animals, and showing large variability in LL IMF content: from <1.5 to >3.5% in Experiment 1 and from 1.25 to 3.25% in Experiment 2. A group of 56 consumers evaluated various items on rib-eye (LL muscle trimmed of backfat) (Experiment 1) and on entire chops trimmed of backfat (Experiment 2). Data from Experiment 1 indicate that an increase in IMF level is associated with an increase in visual perception of fat and a corresponding decrease in the willingness to eat and purchase the meat, when expressed before tasting. The latter effect disappeared after the consumers had tasted the meat, probably due to a positive effect of increase IMF, up to 3.5%, on the perception of texture and taste. In Experiment 2, where entire chops were evaluated, the perception of visible fat was not affected by IMF level, probably due to the lack of variation in the level of intermuscular fat between the four IMF groups. The willingness to eat and purchase the meat were unaffected by IMF level, whereas the perception of texture and taste was enhanced with increased IMF levels up to 3.25%. The present data suggest that the acceptability of pork may be improved by increasing IMF level but: (1) this effect disappeared for IMF levels higher than 3.5%, which are associated with a high risk of meat rejection due to visible fat and (2) the positive effect of increased IMF probably holds true as long as it is not associated with an increase in the level of intermuscular fat.

  3. Parent proxy-report of their children's health-related quality of life: an analysis of 13,878 parents' reliability and validity across age subgroups using the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Limbers, Christine A; Burwinkle, Tasha M

    2007-01-03

    Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measurement has emerged as an important health outcome in clinical trials, clinical practice improvement strategies, and healthcare services research and evaluation. While pediatric patient self-report should be considered the standard for measuring perceived HRQOL, there are circumstances when children are too young, too cognitively impaired, too ill or fatigued to complete a HRQOL instrument, and reliable and valid parent proxy-report instruments are needed in such cases. Further, it is typically parents' perceptions of their children's HRQOL that influences healthcare utilization. Data from the PedsQL DatabaseSM were utilized to test the reliability and validity of parent proxy-report at the individual age subgroup level for ages 2-16 years as recommended by recent FDA guidelines. The sample analyzed represents parent proxy-report age data on 13,878 children ages 2 to 16 years from the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales DatabaseSM. Parents were recruited from general pediatric clinics, subspecialty clinics, and hospitals in which their children were being seen for well-child checks, mild acute illness, or chronic illness care (n = 3,718, 26.8%), and from a State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) in California (n = 10,160, 73.2%). The percentage of missing item responses for the parent proxy-report sample as a whole was 2.1%, supporting feasibility. The majority of the parent proxy-report scales across the age subgroups exceeded the minimum internal consistency reliability standard of 0.70 required for group comparisons, while the Total Scale Scores across the age subgroups approached or exceeded the reliability criterion of 0.90 recommended for analyzing individual patient scale scores. Construct validity was demonstrated utilizing the known groups approach. For each PedsQL scale and summary score, across age subgroups, healthy children demonstrated a statistically significant difference in HRQOL (better HRQOL) than

  4. Association of low back pain with muscle stiffness and muscle mass of the lumbar back muscles, and sagittal spinal alignment in young and middle-aged medical workers.

    PubMed

    Masaki, Mitsuhiro; Aoyama, Tomoki; Murakami, Takashi; Yanase, Ko; Ji, Xiang; Tateuchi, Hiroshige; Ichihashi, Noriaki

    2017-11-01

    Muscle stiffness of the lumbar back muscles in low back pain (LBP) patients has not been clearly elucidated because quantitative assessment of the stiffness of individual muscles was conventionally difficult. This study aimed to examine the association of LBP with muscle stiffness assessed using ultrasonic shear wave elastography (SWE) and muscle mass of the lumbar back muscle, and spinal alignment in young and middle-aged medical workers. The study comprised 23 asymptomatic medical workers [control (CTR) group] and 9 medical workers with LBP (LBP group). Muscle stiffness and mass of the lumbar back muscles (lumbar erector spinae, multifidus, and quadratus lumborum) in the prone position were measured using ultrasonic SWE. Sagittal spinal alignment in the standing and prone positions was measured using a Spinal Mouse. The association with LBP was investigated by multiple logistic regression analysis with a forward selection method. The analysis was conducted using the shear elastic modulus and muscle thickness of the lumbar back muscles, and spinal alignment, age, body height, body weight, and sex as independent variables. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that muscle stiffness of the lumbar multifidus muscle and body height were significant and independent determinants of LBP, but that muscle mass and spinal alignment were not. Muscle stiffness of the lumbar multifidus muscle in the LBP group was significantly higher than that in the CTR group. The results of this study suggest that LBP is associated with muscle stiffness of the lumbar multifidus muscle in young and middle-aged medical workers. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Botulinum toxin treatment for slipping rib syndrome: a case report.

    PubMed

    Pirali, Caterina; Santus, Gianna; Faletti, Sofia; De Grandis, Domenico

    2013-10-01

    Slipping rib syndrome (SRS) is a musculoskeletal cause of severe and recurrent thoracic or abdominal pain. The etiology of SRS is unknown, it seems to arise from costal hypermobility with a tendency of one of the ribs (usually from 8th to 10th but also 11th and 12th have been described) to slip under the superior adjacent rib. Its prevalence is underestimated because SRS is mainly a clinical diagnosis, frequently missed. The critical aspect of the diagnosis is knowledge of the condition itself, which, when lacking, often results in the patient being referred to many different specialists and exposed to unnecessary and costly investigations. The management of the condition includes conservative techniques such as manipulation, localized anesthetic, and steroid or anesthetic nerve block. However, where conservative therapy fails, surgical treatment, with excision of the rib, may be performed. In this paper we describe the case of a patient with persistent and debilitating flank pain who, after many investigations, was diagnosed with SRS. The usual conservative treatment failed, after which we treated the patient with injections of incobotulinumtoxin A into muscles inserting on the inferior side of the rib cage (quadratus lumborum muscle, muscle transversus abdomini, abdominal external oblique muscle, and recto abdomini) achieving a complete relief from pain. To our knowledge botulinum toxin has never been proposed before for the treatment of SRS. We believe that it should be considered as a therapeutic option, especially where other medical treatments have failed or as an intermediate step before surgical intervention.

  6. An Investigation of Jogging Biomechanics using the Full-Body Lumbar Spine Model: Model Development and Validation

    PubMed Central

    Raabe, Margaret E.; Chaudhari, Ajit M.W.

    2016-01-01

    The ability of a biomechanical simulation to produce results that can translate to real-life situations is largely dependent on the physiological accuracy of the musculoskeletal model. There are a limited number of freely-available, full-body models that exist in OpenSim, and those that do exist are very limited in terms of trunk musculature and degrees of freedom in the spine. Properly modeling the motion and musculature of the trunk is necessary to most accurately estimate lower extremity and spinal loading. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a more physiologically accurate OpenSim full-body model. By building upon three previously developed OpenSim models, the Full-Body Lumbar Spine (FBLS) model, comprised of 21 segments, 30 degrees-of-freedom, and 324 musculotendon actuators, was developed. The five lumbar vertebrae were modeled as individual bodies, and coupled constraints were implemented to describe the net motion of the spine. The eight major muscle groups of the lumbar spine were modeled (rectus abdominis, external and internal obliques, erector spinae, multifidus, quadratus lumborum, psoas major, and latissimus dorsi), and many of these muscle groups were modeled as multiple fascicles allowing the large muscles to act in multiple directions. The resulting FBLS model's trunk muscle geometry, maximal isometric joint moments, and simulated muscle activations compare well to experimental data. The FBLS model will be made freely available (https://simtk.org/home/fullbodylumbar) for others to perform additional analyses and develop simulations investigating full-body dynamics and contributions of the trunk muscles to dynamic tasks. PMID:26947033

  7. Limited effect of fly-wheel and spinal mobilization exercise countermeasures on lumbar spine deconditioning during 90 d bed-rest in the Toulouse LTBR study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Belavý, Daniel L.; Ohshima, Hiroshi; Bareille, Marie-Pierre; Rittweger, Jörn; Felsenberg, Dieter

    2011-09-01

    We examined the effect of high-load fly-wheel (targeting the lower-limb musculature and concurrent loading of the spine via shoulder restraints) and spinal movement countermeasures against lumbar spine muscle atrophy, disc and spinal morphology changes and trunk isokinetic torque loss during prolonged bed-rest. Twenty-four male subjects underwent 90 d head-down tilt bed-rest and performed either fly-wheel (FW) exercises every three days, spinal movement exercises in lying five times daily (SpMob), or no exercise (Ctrl). There was no significant impact of countermeasures on losses of isokinetic trunk flexion/extension ( p≥0.65). Muscle volume change by day-89 of bed-rest in the psoas, iliacus, lumbar erector spinae, lumbar multifidus and quadratus lumborum, as measured via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), was statistically similar in all three groups ( p≥0.33). No significant effect on MRI-measures of lumbar intervertebral disc volume, spinal length and lordosis ( p≥0.09) were seen either, but there was some impact ( p≤0.048) on axial plane disc dimensions (greater reduction than in Ctrl) and disc height (greater increases than in Ctrl). MRI-data from subjects measured 13 and 90-days after bed-rest showed partial recovery of the spinal extensor musculature by day-13 after bed-rest with this process complete by day-90. Some changes in lumbar spine and disc morphology parameters were still persistent 90-days after bed-rest. The present results indicate that the countermeasures tested were not optimal to maintain integrity of the spine and trunk musculature during bed rest.

  8. Idiopathic and normal lateral lumbar curves: muscle effects interpreted by 12th rib length asymmetry with pathomechanic implications for lumbar idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Grivas, Theodoros B; Burwell, R Geoffrey; Kechagias, Vasileios; Mazioti, Christina; Fountas, Apostolos; Kolovou, Dimitra; Christodoulou, Evangelos

    2016-01-01

    The historical view of scoliosis as a primary rotation deformity led to debate about the pathomechanic role of paravertebral muscles; particularly multifidus, thought by some to be scoliogenic, counteracting, uncertain, or unimportant. Here, we address lateral lumbar curves (LLC) and suggest a pathomechanic role for quadrates lumborum, (QL) in the light of a new finding, namely of 12th rib bilateral length asymmetry associated with idiopathic and small non-scoliosis LLC. Group 1: The postero-anterior spinal radiographs of 14 children (girls 9, boys 5) aged 9-18, median age 13 years, with right lumbar idiopathic scoliosis (IS) and right LLC less that 10°, were studied. The mean Cobb angle was 12° (range 5-22°). Group 2: In 28 children (girls 17, boys 11) with straight spines, postero-anterior spinal radiographs were evaluated similarly to the children with the LLC, aged 8-17, median age 13 years. The ratio of the right/left 12th rib lengths and it's reliability was calculated. The difference of the ratio between the two groups was tested; and the correlation between the ratio and the Cobb angle estimated. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS package. The ratio's reliability study showed intra-observer +/-0,036 and the inter-observer error +/-0,042 respectively in terms of 95 % confidence limit of the error of measurements. The 12th rib was longer on the side of the curve convexity in 12 children with LLC and equal in two patients with lumbar scoliosis. The 12th rib ratios of the children with lumbar curve were statistically significantly greater than in those with straight spines. The correlation of the 12th rib ratio with Cobb angle was statistically significant. The 12th thoracic vertebrae show no axial rotation (or minimal) in the LLC and no rotation in the straight spine group. It is not possible, at present, to determine whether the 12th convex rib lengthening is congenitally lengthened, induced mechanically, or both. Several small muscles are

  9. Validation of modified forms of the PedsQL generic core scales and cancer module scales for adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer or a blood disorder.

    PubMed

    Ewing, Jane E; King, Madeleine T; Smith, Narelle F

    2009-03-01

    To validate two health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures, the PedsQL Generic Core and Cancer Module adolescent forms (13-18 years), after modification for 16-25-year-old adolescents and young adults (AYA) with cancer or a blood disorder. AYA patients and nominated proxies were recruited from three Sydney hospitals. Modified forms were administered by telephone or in clinics/wards. Analyses included correlations, factor analysis, and analysis of variance of known-groups (defined by the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale). Eighty-eight patients and 79 proxies completed questionnaires. Factor structures consistent with those of the unmodified forms confirmed construct validity. Cronbach's alpha ranged 0.81-0.98. Inter-scale correlations were as hypothesized, confirming discriminant validity. Statistically significant differences between groups with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms (P < 0.05) confirmed clinical validity. These modified forms provide reliable and valid measures of HRQOL in AYA with cancer or a blood disorder, suitable for clinical trials, research, and practice.

  10. Validity, discriminative ability, and reliability of the hearing-related quality of life questionnaire for adolescents.

    PubMed

    Rachakonda, Tara; Jeffe, Donna B; Shin, Jennifer J; Mankarious, Leila; Fanning, Robert J; Lesperance, Marci M; Lieu, Judith E C

    2014-02-01

    The prevalence of hearing loss (HL) in adolescents has grown over the past decade, but hearing-related quality of life (QOL) has not been well-measured. We sought to develop a reliable, valid measure of hearing-related QOL for adolescents and the Hearing Environments And Reflection on Quality of Life (HEAR-QL). Multisite observational study. Adolescents with HL and siblings without HL were recruited from five centers. Participants completed the HEAR-QL and validated questionnaires measuring generic pediatric QOL (PedsQL), depression and anxiety (RCADS-25), and hearing-related QOL for adults (HHIA) to determine construct and discriminant validity. Participants completed the HEAR-QL 2 weeks later for test-retest reliability. We used exploratory principal components analysis to determine the HEAR-QL factor structure and measured reliability. Sensitivity and specificity of the HEAR-QL, PedsQL, HHIA, and RCADS-25 were assessed. We compared scores on all surveys between those with normal hearing, unilateral, and bilateral HL. A total of 233 adolescents (13-18 years old) participated: 179 with HL, 54 without HL. The original 45-item HEAR-QL was shortened to 28 items after determining factor structure. The resulting HEAR-QL-28 demonstrated excellent reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.95) and construct validity (HHIA: r = .845, PedsQL: r = .587; RCADS-25: r = .433). The HEAR-QL-28 displayed excellent discriminant validity, with higher area under the curve (0.932) than the PedsQL (0.597) or RCADS-25 (0.529). Teens with bilateral HL using hearing devices reported worse QOL on the HEAR-QL and HHIA than peers with HL not using devices. The HEAR-QL is a sensitive, reliable, and valid measure of hearing-related QOL for adolescents. 2b. © 2013 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

  11. An investigation of jogging biomechanics using the full-body lumbar spine model: Model development and validation.

    PubMed

    Raabe, Margaret E; Chaudhari, Ajit M W

    2016-05-03

    The ability of a biomechanical simulation to produce results that can translate to real-life situations is largely dependent on the physiological accuracy of the musculoskeletal model. There are a limited number of freely-available, full-body models that exist in OpenSim, and those that do exist are very limited in terms of trunk musculature and degrees of freedom in the spine. Properly modeling the motion and musculature of the trunk is necessary to most accurately estimate lower extremity and spinal loading. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a more physiologically accurate OpenSim full-body model. By building upon three previously developed OpenSim models, the full-body lumbar spine (FBLS) model, comprised of 21 segments, 30 degrees-of-freedom, and 324 musculotendon actuators, was developed. The five lumbar vertebrae were modeled as individual bodies, and coupled constraints were implemented to describe the net motion of the spine. The eight major muscle groups of the lumbar spine were modeled (rectus abdominis, external and internal obliques, erector spinae, multifidus, quadratus lumborum, psoas major, and latissimus dorsi), and many of these muscle groups were modeled as multiple fascicles allowing the large muscles to act in multiple directions. The resulting FBLS model׳s trunk muscle geometry, maximal isometric joint moments, and simulated muscle activations compare well to experimental data. The FBLS model will be made freely available (https://simtk.org/home/fullbodylumbar) for others to perform additional analyses and develop simulations investigating full-body dynamics and contributions of the trunk muscles to dynamic tasks. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Biomechanical consequences of running with deep core muscle weakness.

    PubMed

    Raabe, Margaret E; Chaudhari, Ajit M W

    2018-01-23

    The deep core muscles are often neglected or improperly trained in athletes. Improper function of this musculature may lead to abnormal spinal loading, muscle strain, or injury to spinal structures, all of which have been associated with increased low back pain (LBP) risk. The purpose of this study was to identify potential strategies used to compensate for weakness of the deep core musculature during running and to identify accompanying changes in compressive and shear spinal loads. Kinematically-driven simulations of overground running were created for eight healthy young adults in OpenSim at increasing levels of deep core muscle weakness. The deep core muscles (multifidus, quadratus lumborum, psoas, and deep fascicles of the erector spinae) were weakened individually and together. The superficial longissimus thoracis was a significant compensator for 4 out of 5 weakness conditions (p < 0.05). The deep erector spinae required the largest compensations when weakened individually (up to a 45 ± 10% increase in compensating muscle force production, p = 0.004), revealing it may contribute most to controlling running kinematics. With complete deep core muscle weakness, peak anterior shear loading increased on all lumbar vertebrae (up to 19%, p = 0.001). Additionally, compressive spinal loading increased on the upper lumbar vertebrae (up to 15%, p = 0.007) and decreased on the lower lumbar vertebrae (up to 8%, p = 0.008). Muscular compensations may increase risk of muscular fatigue or injury and increased spinal loading over numerous gait cycles may result in damage to spinal structures. Therefore, insufficient strength of the deep core musculature may increase a runner's risk of developing LBP. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Effect of motor control training on muscle size and football games missed from injury.

    PubMed

    Hides, Julie A; Stanton, Warren R; Mendis, M Dilani; Gildea, Jan; Sexton, Margot J

    2012-06-01

    This panel-randomized intervention trial was designed to examine the effect of a motor control training program for elite Australian Football League players with and without low back pain (LBP). The outcome measures included cross-sectional area (CSA) and symmetry of multifidus, quadratus lumborum, and psoas muscles and the change in CSA of the trunk in response to an abdominal drawing-in task. These measures of muscle size and function were performed using magnetic resonance imaging. Availability of players for competition games was used to assess the effect of the intervention on the occurrence of injuries. The motor control program involved performance of voluntary contractions of the multifidus and transversus abdominis muscles while receiving feedback from ultrasound imaging. Because all players were to receive the intervention, the trial was delivered as a stepped-wedge design with three treatment arms (a 15-wk intervention, a 8-wk intervention, and a waitlist control who received a 7-wk intervention toward the end of the playing season). Players participated in a Pilates program when they were not receiving the intervention. The intervention program was associated with an increase in multifidus muscle size relative to results in the control group. The program was also associated with an improved ability to draw-in the abdominal wall. Intervention was commensurate with an increase in availability for games and a high level of perceived benefit. The motor control program delivered to elite footballers was effective, with demonstrated changes in the size and control of the targeted muscles. In this study, footballers who received the intervention early in the season missed fewer games because of injury than those who received it late in the playing season.

  14. A manual therapy and exercise approach to meralgia paresthetica in pregnancy: a case report

    PubMed Central

    Skaggs, Clayton D.; Winchester, Brett A.; Vianin, Michael; Prather, Heidi

    2006-01-01

    Abstract Objective To present a case of a pregnant patient with meralgia paresthetica who improved using manual therapy and exercise procedures. Clinical Features A 22-year-old patient in the sixteenth week of pregnancy had low back pain, bilateral anterolateral thigh paresthesia and groin pain for a duration of 1 month. She had no motor deficits in either lower extremity and her reflexes were intact. As a standard clinic procedure, a battery of functional tests were performed including: active straight leg raise, long dorsal ligament test, and the pelvic pain provocation procedure. Based on her clinical history and physical responses to the aforementioned functional tests, the diagnosis of meralgia paresthetica was deduced. Intervention and Outcome Treatment was provided at 6 visits over a 6-week period where the patient underwent evaluation, manual intervention, and exercise prescription. Active Release Technique (ART) was performed to the restricted right sacroiliac (SIJ) complex and quadratus lumborum muscles. ART and post-isometric relaxation were applied to the illiopsoas muscles. The home exercise program consisted of pelvic/low back mobility, stabilization and relaxation exercises. After 6 treatments, the patient reported complete resolution of low back pain and left lower extremity symptoms and a 90% improvement in the right thigh symptoms. At her one-year follow-up, the patient reported no further complications and the absence of pain. Conclusions Manual therapy and exercises may serve as an effective treatment protocol for pregnant patients experiencing low back pain complicated by paresthesia. Because these conservative procedures offer a low-risk intervention, additional clinical studies are warranted to further study this treatment. PMID:19674679

  15. Quality of life in children with Prader Willi Syndrome: Parent and child reports.

    PubMed

    Wilson, Kathleen S; Wiersma, Lenny D; Rubin, Daniela A

    2016-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of the Peds QL4.0 instrument to assess quality of life (QL) in children with Prader Willi Syndrome (PWS). This study also sought to compare differences in parent and child report as well as between children with PWS and without PWS. Parents and children with PWS (N=44) completed the PedsQL 4.0 instrument. A sub-sample of children completed the Peds QL 4.0 a second time to assess test-retest reliability. A comparison sample of children who were obese but without PWS (N=66) also completed the PedsQL 4.0. PedsQL 4.0 showed acceptable internal consistency for the child report (αs >0.72) and was acceptable for 4 out of the 6 scales for the parent report (αs >0.66). Test-retest reliability coefficients showed support for the reliability of the instrument (ICCs>0.64). Parents perceived lower QL than children with PWS. Children with PWS also showed lower QL than children without PWS. This study provides support for the use of the PedsQL 4.0 instrument in children with PWS. As observed in other populations, parents perceive a lower QL for their children with PWS than the children themselves. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. EGL-20/Wnt and MAB-5/Hox Act Sequentially to Inhibit Anterior Migration of Neuroblasts in C. elegans

    PubMed Central

    Josephson, Matthew P.; Chai, Yongping; Ou, Guangshuo; Lundquist, Erik A.

    2016-01-01

    Directed neuroblast and neuronal migration is important in the proper development of nervous systems. In C. elegans the bilateral Q neuroblasts QR (on the right) and QL (on the left) undergo an identical pattern of cell division and differentiation but migrate in opposite directions (QR and descendants anteriorly and QL and descendants posteriorly). EGL-20/Wnt, via canonical Wnt signaling, drives the expression of MAB-5/Hox in QL but not QR. MAB-5 acts as a determinant of posterior migration, and mab-5 and egl-20 mutants display anterior QL descendant migrations. Here we analyze the behaviors of QR and QL descendants as they begin their anterior and posterior migrations, and the effects of EGL-20 and MAB-5 on these behaviors. The anterior and posterior daughters of QR (QR.a/p) after the first division immediately polarize and begin anterior migration, whereas QL.a/p remain rounded and non-migratory. After ~1 hour, QL.a migrates posteriorly over QL.p. We find that in egl-20/Wnt, bar-1/β-catenin, and mab-5/Hox mutants, QL.a/p polarize and migrate anteriorly, indicating that these molecules normally inhibit anterior migration of QL.a/p. In egl-20/Wnt mutants, QL.a/p immediately polarize and begin migration, whereas in bar-1/β-catenin and mab-5/Hox, the cells transiently retain a rounded, non-migratory morphology before anterior migration. Thus, EGL-20/Wnt mediates an acute inhibition of anterior migration independently of BAR-1/β-catenin and MAB-5/Hox, and a later, possible transcriptional response mediated by BAR-1/β-catenin and MAB-5/Hox. In addition to inhibiting anterior migration, MAB-5/Hox also cell-autonomously promotes posterior migration of QL.a (and QR.a in a mab-5 gain-of-function). PMID:26863303

  17. Association Between Utilization of Quitline Services and Probability of Tobacco Abstinence in Low-Income Smokers.

    PubMed

    Bernstein, Steven L; Weiss, June-Marie; Toll, Benjamin; Zbikowski, Susan M

    2016-12-01

    Quitlines (QL) are an effective means for smoking cessation, but a paucity of data exist examining the dose-response relationship between use of QL services and quit rates, especially among low-income smokers. The purpose of this study was to study the relationship between tobacco abstinence and use of QL services among low-income smokers. Secondary analysis of a randomized trial of every- or some-day smokers aged 18 years or older visiting an urban emergency department. Inclusion criteria included self-pay or Medicaid insurance, as a proxy for low-income and low socioeconomic status. Intervention participants received a motivational interview, 6 weeks of nicotine patches and gum, a referral faxed to the state-sponsored QL, a booster call, and a quitline brochure. Control participants received the brochure. Smoking status was assessed by phone at 1 and 3 months, with confirmation via exhaled carbon monoxide testing at 3 months for those reporting abstinence. QL usage was obtained by utilization data from the QL database. Of 778 subjects, 197 (25.3%) reported any use of QL services at 3 months. Participants were trichotomized: no QL usage, 1 call only, and >1 call (583, 99, and 98 participants, respectively). Quit rates at 3 months in these no, low-, and high-use groups were, respectively, 7.2%, 9.1%, and 15.3% (P=0.03). Participants who used the QL had a median of 28 total minutes of telephone contact. Among low-income smokers, greater use of QL services is associated with higher abstinence. Whether this resulted from a direct effect of the QL, or greater motivation among smokers using QL services cannot be determined from these data. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  18. Do the self-concept and quality of life decrease in CP patients? Focussing on the predictors of self-concept and quality of life.

    PubMed

    Soyupek, Feray; Aktepe, Evrim; Savas, Serpil; Askin, Ayhan

    2010-01-01

    To find out if the quality of life (QOL) and self-concept of the children with cerebral palsy (CP) was different from that of children without disability, to investigate predictive variables that could affect self-concept and QOL. A total of 40 children with CP and 46 age-matched peers were included. The baseline characteristics including sex, type of CP, the level of disability according to Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) were recorded. Education levels of both children and parents, demographic features of parents, features of living area, usage of devices and associated impairments were filled out. Self-concept was measured using Piers-Harris Self-concept (PH) Scale. Quality of life was measured by Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL). The physical and psychosocial health subscale scores of PedsQL (P-PedsQL and PS-PedsQL) were recorded. Significant differences in mean scores favouring the control group were found for PH scale, PedsQL scale (p < 0.001). P-PedsQL and PS-PedsQL of the CP group were lower than the control group (p < 0.001). PS-PedsQL report was significant predictor of self-concept. The presence of incontinence and GMFCS level were significant predictors of PedsQL and PPedsQL, respectively. Self-concept and QOL of the CP children were lower than the children without CP. Presence of incontinence, self-concept rating and GMFCS level were important to predict domains of QOL.

  19. Influence of maturation and cooking treatments on the nutritional value of bovine meats: Water losses and vitamin B12.

    PubMed

    Ortigues-Marty, Isabelle; Thomas, Emilie; Prévéraud, D P; Girard, Christiane L; Bauchart, D; Durand, D; Peyron, A

    2006-07-01

    The aim of the study was to determine the influence of maturation and of cooking processes on water losses and on the vitamin B12 content of meat. Three types of muscle (Longissimus lumborum, Longissimus thoracis and Triceps brachii) were sampled from a total of 16 animals, representative of animals raised for meat production in France. Three durations of maturation were compared: 1, 3 and 14 days. Different cooking processes were applied: Longissimus lumborum was deep-fat fried or roasted, Longissimus thoracis was pan fried or grilled and Triceps brachii was braised. The cooking yield averaged 55-56% for Triceps brachii, 73-77% for Longissimus lumborum and 85-87% for Longissimus thoracis. Vitamin B12 concentration in raw meat was significantly higher in Triceps brachii than in Longissimus lumborum and Longissimus thoracis (20.86, 11.53 and 9.21ng/g wet tissue, in the same respective order). When expressed on a wet weight basis, all concentrations were significantly increased by cooking. When expressed on a lipid-free dry basis, significant losses in vitamin B12 were measured only in the braised Triceps brachii (-25%) and in the deep-fat fried Longissimus lumborum (-5.5%) as a result of long duration and high temperature of cooking, respectively. Maturation did not affect the vitamin B12 content of meat, whether raw or cooked.

  20. QUALITY OF LIFE OF CHILDREN WITH RICKETS IN YOUNG AGE IN ARMENIA.

    PubMed

    Dunamalyan, R; Mardiyan, M; Danielyan, L; Mkrtchyan, S; Chopikyan, A

    2017-02-01

    Quality of Life (QL) currently is one of the most important criteria for evaluating a child's function. The main characteristics of QL in pediatrics are the psychological, physical and social functioning of the body. Integral characteristics of QOL based on the subjective perception of the components of the child and his parents. As a result of the official statistics and our research it turned out that children in this age-group more often suffer from intestinal infections, anemia, hypertrophy, rickets, skin and subcutaneous fiber disease, deficiencies occurring in prenatal period. The aim of the research is to evaluate the peculiarities of QL criteria change in case of rickets. So far in Armenia there were no tools of QL assessment of children of an early age, thereby the most acceptable questionnaire of QUALIN was used to create Armenian version on its basis. We cooperated with MAPI institute and the authors of QUALIN(Qualite de vie du Nourisson) questionnaire (Manificat S., Dazord A,) and got MAPI's permission to apply the questionnaire in the Republic of Armenia. The questionnaire QUALIN was selected for studying children's QL. The results show that the QL of children with rickets is lower than the QL of the ones who are healthy. The difference is more vividly expressed in the following parameters of QL: neuropsychological development and physical health, the ability to stay alone. In this case the pediatricians have given lower mark of QL than parents. We think that one of the possible motives of such diversity is the professional approach of doctors who estimated the QL more strictly than parents did. So QUALIN international questionnaire can be applied to estimate the peculiarities of QL criteria change of children with rickets at an early age.

  1. Lumbar muscle dysfunction during remission of unilateral recurrent nonspecific low-back pain: evaluation with muscle functional MRI.

    PubMed

    D'hooge, Roseline; Cagnie, Barbara; Crombez, Geert; Vanderstraeten, Guy; Achten, Eric; Danneels, Lieven

    2013-03-01

    After cessation of a low-back pain (LBP) episode, alterations in trunk muscle behavior, despite recovery from pain, have been hypothesized to play a pathogenic role in the recurrence of LBP. This study aimed to identify the presence of lumbar muscle dysfunction during the remission of recurrent LBP, while performing a low-load trunk-extension movement. Thirteen participants with unilateral recurrent LBP were tested at least 1 month after cessation of the previous LBP episode and were compared with a healthy control group without any history of LBP (n=13). Also, differences between previously painful and nonpainful sides were examined. Muscle functional magnetic resonance imaging, based on quantitative T2-imaging, was used to examine muscle tissue characteristics (T2 rest) and muscle recruitment (T2 shift) during prone trunk extension. The lumbar multifidus, erector spinae, quadratus lumborum, and psoas were bilaterally visualized on 2 lumbar levels using a T2-weighted (spin-echo multicontrast) magnetic resonance imaging sequence. Linear mixed model analysis revealed a significantly lower T2 rest (P=0.044) and a significantly higher T2 shift (P=0.034) solely for the multifidus in the LBP group compared with the control group. No significant differences between pain sides were found. Lower T2-rest values have been suggested to correlate with a conversion of the multifidus' fiber typing toward the glycolytic muscle spectrum. Elevated T2 shifts correspond with increased levels of metabolic activity in the multifidus in the LBP group, for which several hypotheses can be put forward. Taken together, these findings provide evidence of concurrent alterations in the multifidus structure and activity in individuals with unilateral recurrent LBP, despite being pain free and functionally recovered.

  2. Reproduction of overall spontaneous pain pattern by manual stimulation of active myofascial trigger points in fibromyalgia patients

    PubMed Central

    2011-01-01

    Introduction It has previously been reported that local and referred pain from active myofascial trigger points (MTPs) in the neck and shoulder region contribute to fibromyalgia (FM) pain and that the pain pattern induced from active MTPs can reproduce parts of the spontaneous clinical FM pain pattern. The current study investigated whether the overall spontaneous FM pain pattern can be reproduced by local and referred pain from active MTPs located in different muscles. Methods A spontaneous pain pattern in FM was recorded in 30 FM patients and 30 healthy subjects served as controls. Local and referred pain patterns induced from active (patients) and latent (controls) MTPs were recorded following manual stimulation. The existence of MTPs was confirmed by intramuscular electromyographical registration of spontaneous electrical activity. Results Local and referred pain areas induced from key active MTPs in FM were larger than pain areas from latent MTPs in healthy controls (P < 0.001), but were similar to the overall spontaneous FM pain area in FM (P > 0.05). The induced pain area was positively associated with current spontaneous pain intensity in FM (P < 0.01). The locations of key active MTPs in FM patients were found to have latent MTPs in healthy subjects. The muscles containing key active MTPs in FM are often observed in the muscles of extensor digitorum, trapezius, infraspinatus in the upper part of the body and of quadratus lumborum, gluteus medius in the lower part of the body. Conclusions The overall spontaneous FM pain pattern can be reproduced by mechanical stimulation of active MTPs located in different muscles, suggesting that fibromyalgia pain is largely composed of pain arising from muscle pain and spasm. Targeting active MTPs and related perpetuating factors may be an important strategy in FM pain control. Trial registration ISRCTN ISRCTN43167547. PMID:21426569

  3. The effects of the CORE programme on pain at rest, movement-induced and secondary pain, active range of motion, and proprioception in female office workers with chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Kim, Tae Hoon; Kim, Eun-Hye; Cho, Hwi-young

    2015-07-01

    To investigate the effects of the CORE programme on pain at rest, movement-induced pain, secondary pain, active range of motion, and proprioception deficits in female office workers with chronic low back pain. Randomized controlled trial. Rehabilitation clinics. A total of 53 participants with chronic low back pain were randomized into the CORE group and the control group. CORE group participants underwent the 30-minute CORE programme, five times per week, for eight weeks, with additional use of hot-packs and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, while the control group used only hot-packs and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation. Participants were evaluated pretest, posttest, and two months after the intervention period to measure resting and movement-induced pain, pressure pain as secondary pain, active range of pain-free motion, and trunk proprioception. Pain intensity at rest (35.6 ±5.9 mm) and during movement (39.4 ±9.1 mm) was significantly decreased in the CORE group following intervention compared with the control group. There were significant improvements in pressure pain thresholds (quadratus lumborum: 2.2 ±0.7 kg/cm(2); sacroiliac joint: 2.0 ±0.7 kg/cm(2)), active range of motion (flexion: 30.8 ±14.3°; extension: 6.6 ±2.5°), and proprioception (20° flexion: 4.3 ±2.4°; 10° extension: 3.1 ±2.0°) in the CORE group following intervention (all p < 0.05). These improvements were maintained at the two-month follow-up. The control group did not show significant improvements in any measured parameter. The CORE programme is an effective intervention for reducing pain at rest and movement-induced pain, and for improving the active range of motion and trunk proprioception in female office workers with chronic low back pain. © The Author(s) 2014.

  4. Comparison between utility of the Thai Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales and 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module.

    PubMed

    Tantilipikorn, Pinailug; Watter, Pauline; Prasertsukdee, Saipin

    2013-03-01

    Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is increasingly being considered in the management of patients with various conditions. HRQOL instruments can be broadly classified as generic or disease-specific measures. Several generic HRQOL instruments in different languages have been developed for paediatric populations including the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0) Generic Core Scale. This tool and a condition-specific tool, PedsQL 3.0 Cerebral Palsy (CP) Module, are widely used in children with CP. No psychometric properties have been reported for Thai PedsQL 4.0. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the psychometric properties of the Thai version of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and compare these with the values for the Thai PedsQL 3.0 CP Module reported previously. Thai PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the PedsQL 3.0 CP Module were completed, respectively, by children with CP and their parents or caregivers twice within 2-4 weeks. Respondents were 97 parents or caregivers and 54 children. Minimal missing data were found in most scales. Acceptable internal consistency was supported, except for Emotional, Social, and School Functioning. Intraclass correlation coefficients for parent-proxy report and self-report were good to excellent (0.625-0.849). The feasibility and reliability of the Thai PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were supported. The Thai PedsQL 3.0 CP Module showed higher values for the psychometric properties. Low-to-good correlations were found among the scales between the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the 3.0 CP Module. Both instruments could be used to measure HRQOL for children with CP, and may provide different information.

  5. Multicollinearity in prognostic factor analyses using the EORTC QLQ-C30: identification and impact on model selection.

    PubMed

    Van Steen, Kristel; Curran, Desmond; Kramer, Jocelyn; Molenberghs, Geert; Van Vreckem, Ann; Bottomley, Andrew; Sylvester, Richard

    2002-12-30

    Clinical and quality of life (QL) variables from an EORTC clinical trial of first line chemotherapy in advanced breast cancer were used in a prognostic factor analysis of survival and response to chemotherapy. For response, different final multivariate models were obtained from forward and backward selection methods, suggesting a disconcerting instability. Quality of life was measured using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire completed by patients. Subscales on the questionnaire are known to be highly correlated, and therefore it was hypothesized that multicollinearity contributed to model instability. A correlation matrix indicated that global QL was highly correlated with 7 out of 11 variables. In a first attempt to explore multicollinearity, we used global QL as dependent variable in a regression model with other QL subscales as predictors. Afterwards, standard diagnostic tests for multicollinearity were performed. An exploratory principal components analysis and factor analysis of the QL subscales identified at most three important components and indicated that inclusion of global QL made minimal difference to the loadings on each component, suggesting that it is redundant in the model. In a second approach, we advocate a bootstrap technique to assess the stability of the models. Based on these analyses and since global QL exacerbates problems of multicollinearity, we therefore recommend that global QL be excluded from prognostic factor analyses using the QLQ-C30. The prognostic factor analysis was rerun without global QL in the model, and selected the same significant prognostic factors as before. Copyright 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  6. [Quality of life--demands and reality as a medical parameter versus quality of life as individual reality].

    PubMed

    Meran, J G

    1992-01-01

    Quality of life (QL) is a term, whose definition extends beyond scientific methods. Even the most accurate description will only be able to represent a part of the reality due to the proviso of only a limited view. For that reason the abandonment of this term, described as "utopical" and "principally remaining in dissent", was called for. This could be countered by the possibilities to use QL as a therapeutic aim, as well as an aid towards finding an individual indication. Alone the demand staged by QL, to take the individuality seriously, and to be the motor for patient oriented medicine, make this term valuable. The definition itself will remain a called instruments have been developed and tuned, their evaluation has not yet been concluded. The acceptance of QL-registration within clinical studies is low, since the individual integration of values compared to the biometric difficulties can hardly be generalized. The aims of QL-research are: the individual focus on the field of projection of QL; a motivation-oriented mode of record; the involvement of QL-registration in form of information and accompaniment; adequate modular techniques including dialogical methods (nondirective interviews); the establishment of a QL-anamnesis towards an extension of the clinical picture; the observance of a possible conflict of roles, the danger of linguistic inaccuracies and misunderstandings, the consideration of a person's privacy.

  7. Effects of anabolic implants and ractopamine-HCl on muscle fiber morphometrics, collagen solubility, and tenderness of beef longissimus lumborum steaks.

    PubMed

    Ebarb, S M; Phelps, K J; Drouillard, J S; Maddock-Carlin, K R; Vaughn, M A; Burnett, D D; Noel, J A; Van Bibber-Krueger, C L; Paulk, C B; Grieger, D M; Gonzalez, J M

    2017-03-01

    The objective of this study was to examine the effects of growth-promoting technologies (GP) and postmortem aging on longissimus lumborum muscle fiber cross-sectional area (CSA), collagen solubility, and their relationship to meat tenderness. Two groups of black-hided crossbred feedlot heifers (group 1: = 33, initial BW 430 ± 7 kg; group 2: = 32, initial BW 466 ± 7 kg) were blocked by BW and assigned to 1 of 3 treatments consisting of: no implant and no ractopamine hydrochloride (CON; = 21); implant, no ractopamine hydrochloride (IMP; = 22); implant and ractopamine hydrochloride (COMBO; = 22). Heifers that received an implant were administered an implant containing 200 mg trenbolone acetate and 20 mg estradiol on d 0 of the study, and heifers in the COMBO group received 400 mg∙head∙d of ractopamine hydrochloride for 28 (Group 1) or 29 d (Group 2) at the end of 90- (Group 1) or 106-d (Group 2) feeding period. Following harvest, strip loins were collected and further fabricated into 5 roasts for postmortem aging (DOA) periods of 2, 7, 14, 21, or 35 d. After aging, Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF), muscle fiber CSA, and collagen solubility were measured. There was no treatment × DOA interaction for WBSF ( = 0.86), but treatment and DOA impacted WBSF ( < 0.01). Over the entire aging study, COMBO steaks had greater ( < 0.01) shear force values when compared to CON steaks. The IMP steaks tended to have decreased ( = 0.07) shear force when compared to the COMBO steaks, but did not differ ( = 0.11) from CON steaks. The IMP and COMBO treatments had increased type IIA fiber CSA when compared to CON ( < 0.01). When compared to each other, the IMP and COMBO type IIA fiber CSA did not differ ( = 0.76). Type I and IIX fiber CSA tended to be greater than CON for IMP and COMBO treatments ( < 0.10). There was no treatment × DOA interaction for all collagen measures ( > 0.33). Collagen amounts were not impacted by GP treatment ( > 0.72), but DOA increased the concentration

  8. Spectacle wear in children reduces parental health-related quality of life

    PubMed Central

    Yamada, Tomohiko; Hatt, Sarah R.; Leske, David A.; Holmes, Jonathan M.

    2011-01-01

    Purpose To investigate whether spectacle wear in children affects responses on the Intermittent Exotropia Questionnaire (IXTQ) or the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Methods We recruited 49 children, median age 8 years (range, 5–13), presenting with visual acuity 20/40 or better and an otherwise normal eye examination (no strabismus), who either had no refractive error (n = 29) or had refractive error corrected with spectacles (n = 20). The IXTQ and PedsQL were completed, each comprising a child report (Child IXTQ, Child PedsQL) and a parent proxy report (Proxy IXTQ, Proxy PedsQL). In addition, the IXTQ contains a parent self-report (Parent IXTQ). Each questionnaire is scored from 0 (worst health-related quality of life [HRQOL]) to 100 (best HRQOL). Median scores were compared using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Results Child IXTQ and Proxy IXTQ scores were similar between groups; nevertheless, Parent IXTQ scores were lower for spectacle wearers (90.4 vs 97.1, p = 0.01). Parent IXTQ questions that scored lower in the spectacle group were related to parental worry about permanent damage to their child’s eyes, longterm eyesight, surgery, self-consciousness, and teasing. The PedsQL composite scores and all subscale scores were similar between spectacle wearers and nonspectacle wearers, both for Child PedsQL and Proxy PedsQL. Conclusions Parental HRQOL, measured using the Parent IXTQ, was lower for children wearing spectacles than for children who did not wear spectacles. There was no difference between spectacle and no-spectacle groups using either Child IXTQ, Proxy IXTQ, Child PedsQL, or Proxy PedsQL. PMID:21315631

  9. Using Quantitative Literacy to Enhance Critical Thinking Skills in Undergraduate Nursing Students.

    PubMed

    Asknes, Edna

    2017-04-01

    Critical thinking and quantitative literacy (QL) are similarly grounded: both focus on analyzing and evaluating evidence, identifying implications and consequences, drawing inferences, and communicating information. This teaching strategy was based on those commonalities and was designed so that undergraduate nursing students would enhance their critical thinking skills as they used their QL skills. QL skills are most effective when taught, learned, and used to solve significant, pertinent problems. Using the principles of learner-centered, team-based learning, QL was integrated into the curriculum of the Maternal-Newborn Nursing course at an urban community college with a diverse student population. Students were engaged and demonstrated enhanced and ongoing development of their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They also reported a better understanding of data interpretation and use. The positive outcome of this project revealed further opportunities for incorporating QL into nursing curricula and highlighted the need for research on the use of QL in nursing education. [J Nurs Educ. 2017;56(4):240-242.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.

  10. Quantum-like Probabilistic Models Outside Physics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khrennikov, Andrei

    We present a quantum-like (QL) model in that contexts (complexes of e.g. mental, social, biological, economic or even political conditions) are represented by complex probability amplitudes. This approach gives the possibility to apply the mathematical quantum formalism to probabilities induced in any domain of science. In our model quantum randomness appears not as irreducible randomness (as it is commonly accepted in conventional quantum mechanics, e.g. by von Neumann and Dirac), but as a consequence of obtaining incomplete information about a system. We pay main attention to the QL description of processing of incomplete information. Our QL model can be useful in cognitive, social and political sciences as well as economics and artificial intelligence. In this paper we consider in a more detail one special application — QL modeling of brain's functioning. The brain is modeled as a QL-computer.

  11. Downregulation of aldose reductase is responsible for developmental abnormalities of the silkworm purple quail-like mutant (q-lp).

    PubMed

    Wang, Pingyang; Bi, Simin; Wei, Weiyang; Qiu, Zhiyong; Xia, Dingguo; Shen, Xingjia; Zhao, Qiaoling

    2018-05-03

    Aldose reductase (AR) is a rate-limiting enzyme in the polyol pathway and is also the key enzyme involved in diabetic complications. The silkworm purple quail-like mutant (q-l p ) exhibits pigmented dots on its epidermis. The q-l p mutant also shows developmental abnormalities and decreased vitality. In this study, fat bodies from the q-l p mutant and the wildtype 932VR strain were subjected to two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis, and the Bombyx mori AR (BmAR) protein was found to be significantly downregulated in the q-l p mutant. The expression of BmAR at the mRNA level was also significantly downregulated, as verified through quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Knockdown of the expression of BmAR via RNAi resulted in a reduction of silkworm weight. The sorbitol level in q-l p was significantly lower than in the wildtype. These results suggested that the BmAR gene is closely related to the development of the q-l p mutant. Investigation of the cause of BmAR downregulation in the q-l p mutant could contribute to revealing the function of AR in insects and offers a new method of identifying AR inhibitors for the treatment of diabetic complications. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  12. Scanning tunneling spectroscopic (STS) studies of magnetically doped MBE-grown topological insulators (TIs)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chu, Hao; Teague, Marcus; Chen, Chien-Chang; Woodward, Nicholas; Yeh, Nai-Chang; Kou, Xufeng; He, Liang; Lang, Murong; Wang, Kang; Caltech Collaboration; UCLA Collaboration

    2013-03-01

    We conduct STS studies on MBE-grown heterostructures of non-magnetic TI (Bi2Se3) with a range of thicknesses (d = 1, 3, 5, 7 quintuple layers, QL) on top of 7-QL magnetically doped TI (Cr-doped Bi2Se3) . For d = 1 and 3-QL, a spatially homogeneous magnetism-induced surface gap (as large as about 150 meV for d = 1-QL) is observed at 77 K, whereas gapless Dirac spectra are found for d = 5 and 7-QL, suggesting that the effective magnetic length for Cr-doped Bi2Se3 is approximately 4 ~ 5-QL. These findings are further corroborated by ARPES and bulk electrical transport measurements. The magnetism-induced surface gap differs from those found in pure Bi2Se3 and (Bi0.5Sb0.5)2 Te3 films of thicknesses smaller than 6-QL, because the latter are due to overlaps of wave functions between the surface and interface layers, which lead to Rashba-like spin-orbit splitting and spin-preserving quasiparticle interference wave-vectors. In contrast, STS studies of TIs with magnetism-induced surface gap do not yield any quasiparticle interferences for energies within the bulk Bi2Se3 gap. Finally, comparative STS studies of pure and magnetically doped TIs in high magnetic fields will be discussed. This work was supported by DARPA.

  13. Health-related quality of life of youth with inflammatory bowel disease: a comparison with published data using the PedsQL 4.0 generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Kunz, Jennifer Hauser; Hommel, Kevin A; Greenley, Rachel Neff

    2010-06-01

    This study compared youth and parent-proxy reports of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among youth with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) to published comparison group data and examined concordance between youth and parent-proxy reports of HRQoL. One hundred thirty-six youth and parent-proxy reports on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales were compared to published data from chronically ill, acutely ill, and healthy comparison groups using independent samples t-tests. Reporter agreement was examined using paired samples t-tests and intraclass correlations (ICCs). Youth with IBD reported lower psychosocial functioning than the healthy comparison group, higher physical and social functioning than the chronically ill group, and lower school functioning than all published comparison groups. Parent-proxy reports of youth HRQoL were higher than the chronically ill group, but lower than the healthy group on all scales except psychosocial functioning. Youth with active IBD reported lower physical health domain scores than youth with inactive disease. Concordance between youth and parent-proxy reports was moderate, with the lowest agreement in school and social functioning. Youth with IBD and their parents rate HRQoL as lower than healthy youth but do not perceive the impact of IBD to be as limiting as in other chronic conditions. Youth report suggests that IBD may be particularly detrimental to HRQoL in the school functioning domain. Moderate agreement between parent and youth reports substantiates continued use of multiple informants in studies of pediatric HRQoL.

  14. Model-Free Optimal Tracking Control via Critic-Only Q-Learning.

    PubMed

    Luo, Biao; Liu, Derong; Huang, Tingwen; Wang, Ding

    2016-10-01

    Model-free control is an important and promising topic in control fields, which has attracted extensive attention in the past few years. In this paper, we aim to solve the model-free optimal tracking control problem of nonaffine nonlinear discrete-time systems. A critic-only Q-learning (CoQL) method is developed, which learns the optimal tracking control from real system data, and thus avoids solving the tracking Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation. First, the Q-learning algorithm is proposed based on the augmented system, and its convergence is established. Using only one neural network for approximating the Q-function, the CoQL method is developed to implement the Q-learning algorithm. Furthermore, the convergence of the CoQL method is proved with the consideration of neural network approximation error. With the convergent Q-function obtained from the CoQL method, the adaptive optimal tracking control is designed based on the gradient descent scheme. Finally, the effectiveness of the developed CoQL method is demonstrated through simulation studies. The developed CoQL method learns with off-policy data and implements with a critic-only structure, thus it is easy to realize and overcome the inadequate exploration problem.

  15. Which Extrinsic and Intrinsic Factors are Associated with Non-Contact Injuries in Adult Cricket Fast Bowlers?

    PubMed

    Olivier, Benita; Taljaard, Tracy; Burger, Elaine; Brukner, Peter; Orchard, John; Gray, Janine; Botha, Nadine; Stewart, Aimee; Mckinon, Warrick

    2016-01-01

    systematic review. The mean critical appraisal score of the papers included in this study was 6.88 (SD 1.15) out of a maximum of 9. The following factors were found to be associated with injury: bowling shoulder internal rotation strength deficit, compromised dynamic balance and lumbar proprioception (joint position sense), the appearance of lumbar posterior element bone stress, degeneration of the lumbar disc on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and previous injury. Conflicting results were found for the association of quadratus lumborum (QL) muscle asymmetry with injury. Technique-related factors associated with injury included shoulder-pelvis flexion-extension angle, shoulder counter-rotation, knee angle, and the proportion of side-flexion during bowling. Bowling workload was the only extrinsic factor associated with injury in adult cricket fast bowlers. A high bowling workload (particularly if it represented a sudden upgrade from a lower workload) increased the subsequent risk to sustaining an injury 1, 3 or 4 weeks later. Identifying the factors associated with injury is a crucial step which should precede the development of, and research into, the effectiveness of injury prevention programs. Once identified, risk factors may be included in pre-participation screening tools and injury prevention programs, and may also be incorporated in future research projects. Overall, the current review highlights the clear lack of research on factors associated with non-contact injury, specifically in adult cricket fast bowlers. Johanna Briggs Institute Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports 1387 (Olivier et al., JBI Database Syst Rev Implement Rep 13(1):3-13. doi: 10.11124/jbisrir-2015-1387 , 2015).

  16. Qiliqiangxin inhibits the development of cardiac hypertrophy, remodeling, and dysfunction during 4 weeks of pressure overload in mice.

    PubMed

    Zou, Yunzeng; Lin, Li; Ye, Yong; Wei, Jianming; Zhou, Ning; Liang, Yanyan; Gong, Hui; Li, Lei; Wu, Jian; Li, Yunbo; Jia, Zhenhua; Wu, Yiling; Zhou, Jingmin; Ge, Junbo

    2012-03-01

    Qiliqiangxin (QL), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used in the treatment of chronic heart failure. However, whether QL can benefit cardiac remodeling in the hypertensive state is unknown. We here examined the effects of QL on the development of cardiac hypertrophy through comparing those of losartan in C57BL/6 mice underlying transverse aorta constriction for 4 weeks. QL and losartan were administrated at 0.6 mg and 13.4 mg·kg·d, respectively. Cardiac hypertrophy, function, and remodeling were evaluated by echocardiography, catheterization, histology, and examination of specific gene expression and ERK phosphorylation. Cardiac apoptosis, autophagy, tumor necrosis factor α/insulin-like growth factor-1, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor expression and especially the proliferation of cardiomyocytes and phosphorylation of ErbB receptors were examined in vivo to elucidate the mechanisms. Transverse aorta constriction for 2 weeks resulted in a significant cardiac hypertrophy, which was significantly suppressed by either QL or losartan treatment. At 4 weeks after transverse aorta constriction, although the development of cardiac dysfunction and remodeling and the increases in apoptosis, autophagy, tumor necrosis factor α/insulin-like growth factor-1, and angiotensin II type 1 receptor expression were abrogated comparably between QL and losartan treatments, QL, but not losartan, enhanced proliferation of cardiomyocytes, which was paralleled with dowregulation of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β, upregulation of CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with ED-rich carboxy-terminal domain 4, and increases in ErbB2 and ErbB4 phosphorylation. Furthermore, inhibition of either ErbB2 or CBP/p300-interacting transactivator with ED-rich carboxy-terminal domain 4 abolished the cardiac protective effects of QL. Thus, QL inhibits myocardial inflammation and cardiomyocyte death and promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation, leading to an ameliorated cardiac remodeling and

  17. Information Network Model Query Processing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Song, Xiaopu

    Information Networking Model (INM) [31] is a novel database model for real world objects and relationships management. It naturally and directly supports various kinds of static and dynamic relationships between objects. In INM, objects are networked through various natural and complex relationships. INM Query Language (INM-QL) [30] is designed to explore such information network, retrieve information about schema, instance, their attributes, relationships, and context-dependent information, and process query results in the user specified form. INM database management system has been implemented using Berkeley DB, and it supports INM-QL. This thesis is mainly focused on the implementation of the subsystem that is able to effectively and efficiently process INM-QL. The subsystem provides a lexical and syntactical analyzer of INM-QL, and it is able to choose appropriate evaluation strategies and index mechanism to process queries in INM-QL without the user's intervention. It also uses intermediate result structure to hold intermediate query result and other helping structures to reduce complexity of query processing.

  18. Quantum-like model of processing of information in the brain based on classical electromagnetic field.

    PubMed

    Khrennikov, Andrei

    2011-09-01

    We propose a model of quantum-like (QL) processing of mental information. This model is based on quantum information theory. However, in contrast to models of "quantum physical brain" reducing mental activity (at least at the highest level) to quantum physical phenomena in the brain, our model matches well with the basic neuronal paradigm of the cognitive science. QL information processing is based (surprisingly) on classical electromagnetic signals induced by joint activity of neurons. This novel approach to quantum information is based on representation of quantum mechanics as a version of classical signal theory which was recently elaborated by the author. The brain uses the QL representation (QLR) for working with abstract concepts; concrete images are described by classical information theory. Two processes, classical and QL, are performed parallely. Moreover, information is actively transmitted from one representation to another. A QL concept given in our model by a density operator can generate a variety of concrete images given by temporal realizations of the corresponding (Gaussian) random signal. This signal has the covariance operator coinciding with the density operator encoding the abstract concept under consideration. The presence of various temporal scales in the brain plays the crucial role in creation of QLR in the brain. Moreover, in our model electromagnetic noise produced by neurons is a source of superstrong QL correlations between processes in different spatial domains in the brain; the binding problem is solved on the QL level, but with the aid of the classical background fluctuations. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Classical Wave Model of Quantum-Like Processing in Brain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khrennikov, A.

    2011-01-01

    We discuss the conjecture on quantum-like (QL) processing of information in the brain. It is not based on the physical quantum brain (e.g., Penrose) - quantum physical carriers of information. In our approach the brain created the QL representation (QLR) of information in Hilbert space. It uses quantum information rules in decision making. The existence of such QLR was (at least preliminary) confirmed by experimental data from cognitive psychology. The violation of the law of total probability in these experiments is an important sign of nonclassicality of data. In so called "constructive wave function approach" such data can be represented by complex amplitudes. We presented 1,2 the QL model of decision making. In this paper we speculate on a possible physical realization of QLR in the brain: a classical wave model producing QLR . It is based on variety of time scales in the brain. Each pair of scales (fine - the background fluctuations of electromagnetic field and rough - the cognitive image scale) induces the QL representation. The background field plays the crucial role in creation of "superstrong QL correlations" in the brain.

  20. Discovery of host-targeted covalent inhibitors of dengue virus

    PubMed Central

    de Wispelaere, Mélissanne; Carocci, Margot; Liang, Yanke; Liu, Qingsong; Sun, Eileen; Vetter, Michael L.; Wang, Jinhua; Gray, Nathanael S.; Yang, Priscilla L.

    2017-01-01

    We report here on an approach targeting the host reactive cysteinome to identify inhibitors of host factors required for the infectious cycle of Flaviviruses and other viruses. We used two parallel cellular phenotypic screens to identify a series of covalent inhibitors, exemplified by QL-XII-47, that are active against dengue virus. We show that the compounds effectively block viral protein expression and that this inhibition is associated with repression of downstream processes of the infectious cycle, and thus significantly contributes to the potent antiviral activity of these compounds. We demonstrate that QL-XII-47’s antiviral activity requires selective, covalent modification of a host target by showing that the compound's antiviral activity is recapitulated when cells are preincubated with QL-XII-47 and then washed prior to viral infection and by showing that QL-XII-47R, a non-reactive analog, lacks antiviral activity at concentrations more than 20-fold higher than QL-XII-47's IC90. QL-XII-47’s inhibition of Zika virus, West Nile virus, hepatitis C virus, and poliovirus further suggests that it acts via a target mediating inhibition of these other medically relevant viruses. These results demonstrate the utility of screens targeting the host reactive cysteinome for rapid identification of compounds with potent antiviral activity. PMID:28034743

  1. The Fat-like Cadherin CDH-4 Acts Cell-Non-Autonomously in Anterior-Posterior Neuroblast Migration

    PubMed Central

    Sundararajan, Lakshmi; Norris, Megan L.; Schöneich, Sebastian; Ackley, Brian D.; Lundquist, Erik A.

    2014-01-01

    Directed migration of neurons is critical in the normal and pathological development of the brain and central nervous system. In C. elegans, the bilateral Q neuroblasts, QR on the right and QL on the left, migrate anteriorly and posteriorly, respectively. Initial protrusion and migration of the Q neuroblasts is autonomously controlled by the transmembrane proteins UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and MIG-21. As QL migrates posteriorly, it encounters and EGL-20/Wnt signal that induces MAB-5/Hox expression that drives QL descendant posterior migration. QR migrates anteriorly away from EGL-20/Wnt and does not activate MAB-5/Hox, resulting in anterior QR descendant migration. A forward genetic screen for new mutations affecting initial Q migrations identified alleles of cdh-4, which caused defects in both QL and QR directional migration similar to unc-40, ptp-3, and mig-21. Previous studies showed that in QL, PTP-3/LAR and MIG-21 act in a pathway in parallel to UNC-40/DCC to drive posterior QL migration. Here we show genetic evidence that CDH-4 acts in the PTP-3/MIG-21 pathway in parallel to UNC-40/DCC to direct posterior QL migration. In QR, the PTP-3/MIG-21 and UNC-40/DCC pathways mutually inhibit each other, allowing anterior QR migration. We report here that CDH-4 acts in both the PTP-3/MIG-21 and UNC-40/DCC pathways in mutual inhibition in QR, and that CDH-4 acts cell-non-autonomously. Interaction of CDH-4 with UNC-40/DCC in QR but not QL represents an inherent left-right asymmetry in the Q cells, the nature of which is not understood. We conclude that CDH-4 might act as a permissive signal for each Q neuroblast to respond differently to anterior-posterior guidance information based upon inherent left-right asymmetries in the Q neuroblasts. PMID:24954154

  2. Effects of Intramuscular Trunk Stimulation on Manual Wheelchair Propulsion Mechanics in Six Subjects with Spinal Cord Injury

    PubMed Central

    Triolo, Ronald J.; Bailey, Stephanie Nogan; Lombardo, Lisa M.; Miller, Michael E.; Foglyano, Kevin; Audu, Musa L.

    2014-01-01

    Objective To quantify the effects of stabilizing the paralyzed trunk and pelvis with electrical stimulation on manual wheelchair propulsion. Design Single-subject design case series with subjects acting as their own concurrent controls. Setting Hospital-based clinical biomechanics laboratory. Participants Six (4M, 2F age 46±10.8yrs) long-time users (6.1±3.9yrs) of implanted neuroprostheses for lower extremity function with chronic (8.6±2.8yrs) mid-cervical or thoracic level injuries (C6-T10). Interventions Continuous low level stimulation to the hip (gluteus maximus, posterior adductor or hamstrings) and trunk extensor (lumbar erector spinae and/or quadratus lumborum) muscles with implanted intramuscular electrodes. Main Outcome Measure(s) Pushrim kinetics (peak resultant force, fraction effective force), kinematics (cadence, stroke length and maximum forward lean), and peak shoulder moment at preferred speed over 10m level surface; speed, pushrim kinetics and subjective ratings of effort for level 100m sprints and up a 30.5m ramp of approximately 5% grade. Results Three out of five subjects demonstrated reduced peak resultant pushrim forces (p≤0.014) and improved efficiency, (p≤0.048) with stimulation during self-paced level propulsion. Peak sagittal shoulder moment remained unchanged in three subjects and increased in two others (p<0.001). Maximal forward trunk lean also increased by 19-26% (p<0.001) with stimulation in these three subjects. Stroke lengths were unchanged by stimulation in all subjects, and two showed extremely small (5%) but statistically significant increases in cadence (p≤0.021). Performance measures for sprints and inclines were generally unchanged with stimulation, however subjects consistently rated propulsion with stimulation to be easier for both surfaces. Conclusions Stabilizing the pelvis and trunk with low levels of continuous electrical stimulation to the lumbar trunk and hip extensors can positively impact the mechanics of

  3. The cat vertebral column: stance configuration and range of motion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Macpherson, J. M.; Ye, Y.; Peterson, B. W. (Principal Investigator)

    1998-01-01

    This study examined the configuration of the vertebral column of the cat during independent stance and in various flexed positions. The range of motion in the sagittal plane is similar across most thoracic and lumbar joints, with the exception of a lesser range at the transition region from thoracic-type to lumbar-type vertebrae. The upper thoracic column exhibits most of its range in dorsiflexion and the lower thoracic and lumbar in ventroflexion. Lateral flexion is limited to less than 5 degrees at all segments. The range in torsion is almost 180 degrees and occurs primarily in the midthoracic region, T4-T11. Contrary to the depiction in most atlases, the standing cat exhibits several curvatures, including a mild dorsiflexion in the lower lumbar segments, a marked ventroflexion in the lower thoracic and upper lumbar segments, and a profound dorsiflexion in the upper thoracic (above T9) and cervical segments. The curvatures are not significantly changed by altering stance distance but are affected by head posture. During stance, the top of the scapula lies well above the spines of the thoracic vertebrae, and the glenohumeral joint is just below the bodies of vertebrae T3-T5. Using a simple static model of the vertebral column in the sagittal plane, it was estimated that the bending moment due to gravity is bimodal with a dorsiflexion moment in the lower thoracic and lumbar region and a ventroflexion moment in the upper thoracic and cervical region. Given the bending moments and the position of the scapula during stance, it is proposed that two groups of scapular muscles provide the major antigravity support for the head and anterior trunk. Levator scapulae and serratus ventralis form the lateral group, inserting on the lateral processes of cervical vertebrae and on the ribs. The major and minor rhomboids form the medial group, inserting on the spinous tips of vertebrae from C4 to T4. It is also proposed that the hypaxial muscles, psoas major, minor, and quadratus

  4. Comparison of different strongman events: trunk muscle activation and lumbar spine motion, load, and stiffness.

    PubMed

    McGill, Stuart M; McDermott, Art; Fenwick, Chad Mj

    2009-07-01

    Strongman events are attracting more interest as training exercises because of their unique demands. Further, strongman competitors sustain specific injuries, particularly to the back. Muscle electromyographic data from various torso and hip muscles, together with kinematic measures, were input to an anatomically detailed model of the torso to estimate back load, low-back stiffness, and hip torque. Events included the farmer's walk, super yoke, Atlas stone lift, suitcase carry, keg walk, tire flip, and log lift. The results document the unique demands of these whole-body events and, in particular, the demands on the back and torso. For example, the very large moments required at the hip for abduction when performing a yoke walk exceed the strength capability of the hip. Here, muscles such as quadratus lumborum made up for the strength deficit by generating frontal plane torque to support the torso/pelvis. In this way, the stiffened torso acts as a source of strength to allow joints with insufficient strength to be buttressed, resulting in successful performance. Timing of muscle activation patterns in events such as the Atlas stone lift demonstrated the need to integrate the hip extensors before the back extensors. Even so, because of the awkward shape of the stone, the protective neutral spine posture was impossible to achieve, resulting in substantial loading on the back that is placed in a weakened posture. Unexpectedly, the super yoke carry resulted in the highest loads on the spine. This was attributed to the weight of the yoke coupled with the massive torso muscle cocontraction, which produced torso stiffness to ensure spine stability together with buttressing the abduction strength insufficiency of the hips. Strongman events clearly challenge the strength of the body linkage, together with the stabilizing system, in a different way than traditional approaches. The carrying events challenged different abilities than the lifting events, suggesting that loaded

  5. Reaching out, inviting back: using Interactive voice response (IVR) technology to recycle relapsed smokers back to Quitline treatment – a randomized controlled trial

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Tobacco dependence is a chronic, relapsing condition that typically requires multiple quit attempts and extended treatment. When offered the opportunity, relapsed smokers are interested in recycling back into treatment for a new, assisted quit attempt. This manuscript presents the results of a randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of interactive voice response (IVR) in recycling low income smokers who had previously used quitline (QL) support back to QL support for a new quit attempt. Methods A sample of 2985 previous QL callers were randomized to either receive IVR screening for current smoking (control group) or IVR screening plus an IVR intervention. The IVR intervention consists of automated questions to identify and address barriers to re-cycling in QL support, followed by an offer to be transferred to the QL and reinitiate treatment. Re-enrollment in QL services for both groups was documented. Results The IVR system successfully reached 715 (23.9%) former QL participants. Of those, 27% (194/715) reported to the IVR system that they had quit smoking and were therefore excluded from the study and analysis. The trial’s final sample was composed of 521 current smokers. The re-enrollment rate was 3.3% for the control group and 28.2% for the intervention group (p < .001). Logistic regression results indicated an 11.2 times higher odds for re-enrollment of the intervention group than the control group (p < .001). Results did not vary by gender, race, ethnicity, or level of education, however recycled smokers were older (Mean =45.2; SD = 11.7) than smokers who declined a new treatment cycle (Mean = 41.8; SD = 13.2); (p = 0.013). The main barriers reported for not engaging in a new treatment cycle were low self-efficacy and lack of interest in quitting. After delivering IVR messages targeting these reported barriers, 32% of the smokers reporting low self-efficacy and 4.8% of those reporting lack of interest in quitting

  6. Petrochemistry of late miocene peraluminous silicic volcanic rocks from the Morococala field, Bolivia

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Morgan, VI G.B.; London, D.; Luedke, R.G.

    1998-01-01

    Late Miocene peraluminous volcanic rocks of the Morococala field, Bolivia, define a layered stratigraphy of basal andalusite-, biotite-(?? Muscovite)-bearing rhyolite tuffs (AR), overlain by cordierite-, biotite-bearing rhyolite tuffs (CR), and capped by biotite-beanng quartz latite tuffs, lavas, and late domal flows (QL). Mineral and whole-rock compositions become more evolved from top to bottom, with differentiation reflected by decreasing Ca, Ba, Mg, Fe, and rare earth elements (REE) versus increasing F, Na/K, and aluminosity from QL to AR. Mineral, whole-rock, and glass inclusion compositions are consistent with derivation of all three rock types from a single stratified magma reservoir, but age and spatial relations between the three units make this unlikely. Genesis of the QL involved biotite-dehydration melting of an aluminous source at T > 750??C and P ??? 4-6 kbar. If not co-magmatic with QL, the other units were generated primarily by muscovite-dehydration melting at T = 730-750??C and P ??? 3??5-4??5 kbar for CR, and T ??? 750??C for AR with pre-emptive residence at low pressure (1??5-3??0 kbar). Low hematite contents (XHem ??? 0??06) of ilmenite grains in AR, CR, and early grains (as inclusions in plagioclase and sanidine cores) in QL indicate reduced conditions imposed by a graphite-bearing source. Compositional variability among texturally later oxides (ilmenite with XHem = 0??06-0??50, primary magnetite), however, apparently records progressive increases in pre-eruptive f(O2) in QL. Plagioclase-melt equilibria and electron microprobe analysis difference for quartz-hosted glass inclusions suggest pre-emptive melt H2O contents ??? 5-7 wt % for the AR, ???4-6 wt % for the CR, and ???3-5 wt % for the QL.

  7. Key issues affecting quality of life and patient-reported outcomes in prostate cancer: an analysis conducted in 2128 patients with initial psychometric assessment of the prostate cancer symptom scale (PCSS).

    PubMed

    Msaouel, Pavlos; Gralla, Richard J; Jones, Randy A; Hollen, Patricia J

    2017-09-01

    Evidence-based quality of life (QL) questionnaires require the identification of issues of importance to patients. The primary aim of this study was to inform providers on patient-expressed issues while enhancing the content validity of instruments assessing QL and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) in prostate cancer. The study provided additional psychometric properties for the new PRO and QL instrument, the Prostate Cancer Symptom Scale (PCSS). An anonymous web-based survey of 2128 patients with prostate cancer was conducted with patients rating 18 QL items on a five-point scale. Most respondents (74%) were aged 55-74 years, had early stage disease at diagnosis (81%) and were diagnosed within 2 years of the survey (81%). The top five-rated issues were: overall QL, ability to perform normal activities, maintaining independence, ability to sleep and not being a burden. These items were ranked as either 'very important' or 'important' by at least 88% of patients. None of the most highly ranked issues were symptoms. Instead, the highest ranked items were global issues reflecting the impact of symptoms on patients. In addition to the enhanced content validity findings, good reliability results and initial support for construct validity are reported for the PCSS. This is the largest survey providing patient-expressed background for content validity for QL and PRO measures. The findings of this study should aid development of newer practical questionnaires, such as the PCSS, which can be adapted to electronic platforms enhancing rapid and accurate PRO and QL evaluation. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

  8. Siblings in Kars, Turkey, with Uner Tan syndrome (quadrupedal locomotion, severe mental retardation, and no speech): a novel theory for the evolution of human bipedalism.

    PubMed

    Tan, Uner

    2015-02-01

    To investigate siblings from Kars (n  =  2), Turkey, with diagonal-sequence quadrupedal locomotion (QL), severe mental retardation, and no speech (Uner Tan syndrome, UTS), in relation to the evolutionary emergence of human bipedal locomotion (BL). Video recordings were made to assess gaits. Brain MRI scanning was performed to visualize the cerebro-cerebellar malformations. Genome-wide association analyses were performed in venous blood samples. One of the two men with UTS showed early-onset QL and late-onset BL without infantile hypotonia, the other consistent QL with infantile hypotonia. No homozygosity was found in the genetic analysis. The family lived under extremely poor socioeconomic conditions. Low socioeconomic status may be a triggering factor for the epigenetic emergence of UTS. The neural networks responsible for the ancestral diagonal-sequence QL, evolutionarily preserved since about 400 MYA, may be selected during locomotor development, under the influence of self-organizing processes during pre- and postnatal periods. The diagonal-sequence QL induced ipsilateral limb interference in UTS cases as in nonhuman primates. To overcome this condition, our ancestors would prefer the attractor BL. This novel theory for the evolution of human bipedalism was evaluated in light of dynamical systems theory.

  9. Turkish validity and reliability of a pediatric quality of life cancer module for children aged 8-12 and parents.

    PubMed

    Tanir, Meltem Kurtuncu; Kuguoglu, Sema

    2011-01-01

    This descriptive study was conducted to determine the validity and reliability in Turkey of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Cancer Module (PedsQL 3.0) for children aged 8-12 in the hematology-oncology polyclinics of two university hospitals in Istanbul during the period 2006-2007. The data collection instruments were the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0), the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Cancer Module (PedsQL 3.0) and a socio-demographic questionnaire, applied for 146 children diagnosed with cancer and 146 parents. Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the PedsQL 3.0 were found to be 0.602-0.982 for sub-groups with the children's form, 0.644-0.966 with the parents' form. The scale was found to give a significantly high level of reliability (0.60 ≤ ± < 0.80). Significant and directly proportional correlations were demonstrated between the forms for children and parents. It was concluded that the PedsQL 3.0 cancer module is a valid and reliable tool for assessing the quality of life of Turkish children, aged 8-12, diagnosed with cancer.

  10. [Effect of local hypothermia on H- and M-responses after spinal cord contusion in dogs].

    PubMed

    Iafarova, G G; Tumakaev, R F; Khazieva, A R; Baltina, T V

    2014-01-01

    In this study we investigated a motor-neuronal functional state based on H- and M-responses from m. quadratus plantae in dogs before and after experimental spinal cord contusion with and without following local intraoperative hypothermia. H- and M-responses from m. quadratus plantae were recorded during stimulation of the tibial nerve and results were compared between the groups. Our results demonstrate that local hypothermia applied after spinal cord contusion reduces amplitude of both M- and H-responses and also H(max)/M(max) ratio that may indicate depression of motorneurons excitability. After spinal cord contusion without following hypothermia the excitability of the spinal motorneurons during post-traumatic period, in opposite, was significantly increased. These results support a conclusion that intraoperative hypothermia after spinal cord contusion can delay development of functional excitability of the motoneurons and protect from further changes in H- and M-responses.

  11. Comparative Morphology of the Larvae of the Rove Beetles of Paederus , Lathrobium , and Tetartopeus , With Notes on its Systematic Position (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae)

    PubMed Central

    Staniec, Bernard; Sałapa, Dorota; Pietrykowska-Tudruj, Ewa

    2014-01-01

    Abstract The mature larvae of the rove beetles (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) Lathrobium lineatocolle Scriba and Tetartopeus quadratus (Paykull) are described for the first time, and the larva of Paederus littoralis Gravenhorst is redescribed. Detailed illustrations of their structural features are provided. The description of T. quadratus is the first for that genus. Diagnostic larval, morphological characters for Paederus , Lathrobium , and Tetartopeus are proposed. Based on the earlier published and new data, morphological comparisons at the subtribal and genus levels within the subfamily Paederinae are given. The principal differences among subtribes and genera involve structures located on the head, but several relate to abdominal sclerites and urogomphi. Based on the current data, the previously proposed characters diagnostic for the subfamily Paederinae are verified. A status of Paederidus and Tetartopeus as genera as opposed to their subgeneric status within Paederus and Lathrobium , respectively, was confirmed. PMID:25480975

  12. Function of the epaxial muscles during trotting.

    PubMed

    Schilling, Nadja; Carrier, David R

    2009-04-01

    In mammals, the epaxial muscles are believed to stabilize the trunk during walking and trotting because the timing of their activity is not appropriate to produce bending of the trunk. To test whether this is indeed the case, we recorded the activity of the m. multifidus lumborum and the m. longissimus thoracis et lumborum at three different sites along the trunk (T13, L3, L6) as we manipulated the moments acting on the trunk and the pelvis in dogs trotting on a treadmill. Confirming results of previous studies, both muscles exhibited a biphasic and bilateral activity. The higher burst was associated with the second half of ipsilateral hindlimb stance phase, the smaller burst occurred during the second half of ipsilateral hindlimb swing phase. The asymmetry was noticeably larger in the m. longissimus thoracis et lumborum than in the m. multifidus lumborum. Although our manipulations of the inertia of the trunk produced results that are consistent with previous studies indicating that the epaxial muscles stabilize the trunk against accelerations in the sagittal plane, the responses of the epaxial muscles to manipulations of trunk inertia were small compared with their responses when moments produced by the extrinsic muscles of the hindlimb were manipulated. Our results indicate that the multifidus and longissimus muscles primarily stabilize the pelvis against (1) vertical components of hindlimb retractor muscles and (2) horizontal components of the hindlimb protractor and retractor muscles. Consistent with this, stronger effects of the manipulations were observed in the posterior sampling sites.

  13. Patient-reported Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales in pediatric patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and comorbid psychiatric disorders: feasibility, reliability, and validity.

    PubMed

    Limbers, Christine A; Ripperger-Suhler, Jane; Heffer, Robert W; Varni, James W

    2011-06-01

    The primary objective of the study was to evaluate the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales as a patient self-reported health-related quality of life measurement instrument in pediatric patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and physician-diagnosed comorbid psychiatric disorders being seen in a pediatric psychiatric clinic. The secondary objective was to evaluate parent proxy-reported PedsQL in this population. One hundred seventy-nine children with ADHD and comorbid psychiatric disorders ages 5 to 18 years and 181 parents completed the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and parents also completed the Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scales. Known-groups discriminant validity comparisons were made between the sample of pediatric patients with ADHD and comorbid psychiatric disorders and healthy, cancer, and type 1 diabetes samples. The PedsQL evidenced minimal missing responses for patient self-report and parent proxy-report (0.2% and 0.5%, respectively), demonstrated no significant floor or ceiling effects, and achieved excellent reliability for the Total Scale Score (α = 0.85 patient self-report, 0.92 parent proxy-report). Pediatric patients with ADHD and comorbid psychiatric disorders and their parents reported statistically significantly worse PedsQL scores than healthy children, with large effect sizes across all domains, supporting known-groups discriminant validity. Pediatric patients with ADHD and comorbid psychiatric disorders and their parents reported worse PedsQL scores compared to pediatric patients with cancer and diabetes with the exception of physical health, in which pediatric cancer patients manifested lower physical health, indicating the relative severe impact of ADHD and comorbid psychiatric disorders. More severe ADHD symptoms were generally associated with more impaired PedsQL scores, supporting construct validity. These data demonstrate the

  14. Discovery of a potent, covalent BTK inhibitor for B-cell lymphoma.

    PubMed

    Wu, Hong; Wang, Wenchao; Liu, Feiyang; Weisberg, Ellen L; Tian, Bei; Chen, Yongfei; Li, Binhua; Wang, Aoli; Wang, Beilei; Zhao, Zheng; McMillin, Douglas W; Hu, Chen; Li, Hong; Wang, Jinhua; Liang, Yanke; Buhrlage, Sara J; Liang, Junting; Liu, Jing; Yang, Guang; Brown, Jennifer R; Treon, Steven P; Mitsiades, Constantine S; Griffin, James D; Liu, Qingsong; Gray, Nathanael S

    2014-05-16

    BTK is a member of the TEC family of non-receptor tyrosine kinases whose deregulation has been implicated in a variety of B-cell-related diseases. We have used structure-based drug design in conjunction with kinome profiling and cellular assays to develop a potent, selective, and irreversible BTK kinase inhibitor, QL47, which covalently modifies Cys481. QL47 inhibits BTK kinase activity with an IC50 of 7 nM, inhibits autophosphorylation of BTK on Tyr223 in cells with an EC50 of 475 nM, and inhibits phosphorylation of a downstream effector PLCγ2 (Tyr759) with an EC50 of 318 nM. In Ramos cells QL47 induces a G1 cell cycle arrest that is associated with pronounced degradation of BTK protein. QL47 inhibits the proliferation of B-cell lymphoma cancer cell lines at submicromolar concentrations.

  15. Candida asparagi sp. nov., Candida diospyri sp. nov. and Candida qinlingensis sp. nov., novel anamorphic, ascomycetous yeast species.

    PubMed

    Lu, Hui-Zhong; Jia, Jian-Hua; Wang, Qi-Ming; Bai, Feng-Yan

    2004-07-01

    Among ascomycetous yeasts that were isolated from several nature reserve areas in China, three anamorphic strains isolated from soil (QL 5-5T) and fruit (QL 21-2T and SN 15-1T) were revealed, by conventional characterization and molecular phylogenetic analysis based on internal transcribed spacer and large subunit (26S) rRNA gene D1/D2 region sequencing, to represent three novel species in the genus Candida. Candida qinlingensis sp. nov. (type strain, QL 5-5T=AS 2.2524T=CBS 9768T) was related closely to a teleomorphic species, Williopsis pratensis. The close relatives of Candida diospyri sp. nov. (type strain, QL 21-2T=AS 2.2525T=CBS 9769T) are Candida friedrichii and Candida membranifaciens. Candida asparagi sp. nov. (type strain, SN 15-1T=AS 2.2526T=CBS 9770T) forms a clade with Candida fructus.

  16. Nonlinear asymmetric tearing mode evolution in cylindrical geometry

    DOE PAGES

    Teng, Qian; Ferraro, N.; Gates, David A.; ...

    2016-10-27

    The growth of a tearing mode is described by reduced MHD equations. For a cylindrical equilibrium, tearing mode growth is governed by the modified Rutherford equation, i.e., the nonlinear Δ'(w). For a low beta plasma without external heating, Δ'(w) can be approximately described by two terms, Δ' ql(w), Δ'A(w). In this work, we present a simple method to calculate the quasilinear stability index Δ'ql rigorously, for poloidal mode number m ≥ 2. Δ' ql is derived by solving the outer equation through the Frobenius method. Δ'ql is composed of four terms proportional to: constant Δ' 0, w, wlnw, and w2.more » Δ' A is proportional to the asymmetry of island that is roughly proportional to w. The sum of Δ' ql and Δ' A is consistent with the more accurate expression calculated perturbatively. The reduced MHD equations are also solved numerically through a 3D MHD code M3D-C1. The analytical expression of the perturbed helical flux and the saturated island width agree with the simulation results. Lastly, it is also confirmed by the simulation that the Δ' A has to be considered in calculating island saturation.« less

  17. The Quality of Life of Retired Reengaged Academics in Nigeria

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ejechi, Eucharia Onyema

    2012-01-01

    The quality of life (QL) of retired academics reengaged in some Nigerian Universities was studied using physical health, subjective happiness, life satisfaction and psychological well-being domains and a measure based on control, autonomy, self-realization and pleasure (CASP) as indicators. Satisfactory QL was indicated all respondents (greater…

  18. Quality of Life Changes Following Surgery for Hyperhidrosis.

    PubMed

    de Campos, José Ribas Milanez; da Fonseca, Hugo Veiga Sampaio; Wolosker, Nelson

    2016-11-01

    The best way to evaluate the impact of primary hyperhidrosis on quality of life (QL) is through specific questionnaires, avoiding generic models that do not appropriately evaluate individuals. QL improves significantly in the short term after sympathectomy. In the longer term, a sustained and stable improvement is seen, although there is a small decline in the numbers; after 5 and even at 10 years of follow-up it shows virtually the same numerical distribution. Compensatory hyperhidrosis is a major side effect and the main aggravating factor in postoperative QL, requiring attention to its management and prevention. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Cell Phone Ownership and Service Plans Among Low-Income Smokers: The Hidden Cost of Quitlines.

    PubMed

    Bernstein, Steven L; Rosner, June-Marie; Toll, Benjamin

    2016-08-01

    Quitlines (QLs) are free, effective sources of treatment for tobacco dependence. Although the QL number is toll-free, the use of cell phones as the sole source of telephony may impose an unintended cost, in terms of cell minutes. To quantify the use of cell-only telephony among self-pay or Medicaid smokers, assess their calling plans, and estimate the impact of a typical course of QL counseling. A survey of smokers age at least 18 years visiting an American urban emergency department from April to July, 2013. Seven-hundred seventy-three smokers were surveyed, of whom 563 (72.8%) were low-income, defined as having Medicaid or no insurance. All low-income smokers had at least one phone: 48 (8.5%) reported land-lines only, 159 (28.2%) land-lines and cells, and 356 (63.2%) cells only. Of the cell phone owners, monthly calling plans provided unlimited minutes for 339/515 (65.8%), at most 250 minutes for 124 (24.1%), and more than 250 minutes for 52 (10.0%). Another recent trial found that QL users make a median of 1 call lasting 28 minutes, with the 75th and 90th percentiles of calls and minutes at 3 and 4 calls, and 48 and 73.6 minutes, respectively. Thus, robust use of QL services could consume 11%-29% of a low-income smoker's typical 250 monthly cell minutes. Among low-income smokers, cell phones are often the sole telephone. Robust use of the QL may impose a substantial burden on low-income smokers' calling plans, and therefore deter use of the QL. Exempting calls to QLs from counting against smokers' plans may help promote QL utilization. Low-income individuals have high rates of smoking, and are more likely to own only cell phones, not landlines, for telephone access. Because cell phone calling plans often have limited numbers of monthly minutes, cell-only individuals may have to spend a substantial proportion of their monthly minutes on QL services. This may act as a deterrent to using an otherwise free, effective means of treatment for tobacco dependence

  20. Group Projects and Civic Engagement in a Quantitative Literacy Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dewar, Jacqueline; Larson, Suzanne; Zachariah, Thomas

    2011-01-01

    We describe our approach to incorporating a civic engagement component into a quantitative literacy (QL) course and the resulting gains in student learning, confidence, and awareness of local civic issues. We revised the existing QL course by including semester-long group projects involving local community issues that students could investigate…

  1. Health related quality of life assessment in Pakistani paediatric cancer patients using PedsQL™ 4.0 generic core scale and PedsQL™ cancer module.

    PubMed

    Chaudhry, Zainab; Siddiqui, Salma

    2012-05-18

    The purpose of the study was to evaluate and compare the HRQOL of paediatric cancer in comparison to the healthy children across age groups, using PedsQLTM 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the PedsQL™ Cancer Module. The PedsQLTM 4.0 Generic Core Scales and PedsQL Cancer Module 3.0 were administered on 56 children including 26 cancer patients and 30 healthy children while employing self and proxy report forms. Furthermore, the results were compared with their healthy comparison group. The results indicated a significant relationship between HRQOL reports of cancer patients and their parents. However, the mean of paediatric cancer patients is significantly lower as compare to their healthy comparison group. The mean of proxy report is lower overall on both PedsQL and PedsQL cancer module reports. Conclusively, overall HRQOL of cancer patients was lower than healthy children but it is quite similar to their parents' perception. Whereas, the parental mean on PedsQL and PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module are significantly low. The study indicated a marked difference between cancer patients and healthy children's HRQOL perception and unfortunately in country like Pakistan where cancer is on increase, no significant work has yet been done to explore this area of research. The present study highlighted the need to focus on the particular psychological health services required to serve the physically challenged population.

  2. Traditional and innovative promotional strategies of tobacco cessation services: a review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Momin, Behnoosh; Neri, Antonio; McCausland, Kristen; Duke, Jennifer; Hansen, Heather; Kahende, Jennifer; Zhang, Lei; Stewart, Sherri L

    2014-08-01

    An estimated 43.5 million American adults currently smoke cigarettes. Well-designed tobacco education campaigns with adequate reach increase cessation and reduce tobacco use. Smokers report great interest in quitting but few use effective treatments including quitlines (QLs). This review examined traditional (TV, radio, print ads) versus innovative tobacco cessation (internet, social media) promotions for QL services. Between November 2011 and January 2012, searches were conducted on EBSCO, PubMed, Wilson, OCLC, CQ Press, Google Scholar, Gale, LexisNexis, and JSTOR. Existing literature shows that the amount of radio and print advertising, and promotion of free cessation medications increases QL call volume. Television advertising volume seems to be the best predictor of QL service awareness. Much of the literature on Internet advertising compares the characteristics of participants recruited for studies through various channels. The majority of the papers indicated that Internet-recruited participants were younger; this was the only demographic characteristic with high agreement across studies. Traditional media was only studied within mass media campaigns with TV ads having a consistent impact on increasing calls to QLs, therefore, it is hard to distinguish the impact of traditional media as an independent QL promotion intervention. With innovative media, while many QL services have a presence on social media sites, there is no literature on evaluating the effectiveness of these channels for quitline promotion.

  3. Myoelectric Response of Back Muscles to Vertical Random Whole-Body Vibration with Different Magnitudes at Different Postures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    BLÜTHNER, R.; SEIDEL, H.; HINZ, B.

    2002-05-01

    Back muscle forces contribute essentially to the whole-body vibration-induced spinal load. The electromyogram (EMG) can help to estimate these forces during whole-body vibration (WBV). Thirty-eight subjects were exposed to identical random low-frequency WBV (0·7, 1·0 and 1·4 m/s-2 r.m.s. weighted acceleration) at a relaxed, erect and bent forward postures. The acceleration of the seat and the force between the seat and the buttocks were measured. Six EMGs were derived from the right side of the m. trapezius pars descendens, m. ileocostalis lumborum pars thoracis, m. ileocostalis lumborum pars lumborum; m. longissimus thoracis pars thoracis, m. longissimus thoracis pars lumborum, and lumbar multifidus muscle. All data were filtered for anti-aliasing and sampled with 1000 Hz. Artefacts caused by the ECG in the EMG were identified and eliminated in the time domain using wavelets. The individually rectified and normalized EMGs were averaged across subjects. The EMGs without WBV exhibited characteristic patterns for the three postures examined. The coherence and transfer functions indicated characteristic myoelectric responses to random WBV with several effects of posture and WBV magnitude. A comprehensive set of transfer functions from the seat acceleration or the mean normalized input force to the mean processed EMG was presented.The results can be used for the development of more sophisticated models with a separate control of various back muscle groups. However, the EMG-force relationship under dynamic conditions needs to be examined in more detail before the results can be implemented. Since different reflex mechanisms depending on the frequency of WBV are linked with different types of active muscle fibres, various time delays between the EMG and muscle force may be necessary.

  4. SDN-1/Syndecan Acts in Parallel to the Transmembrane Molecule MIG-13 to Promote Anterior Neuroblast Migration.

    PubMed

    Sundararajan, Lakshmi; Norris, Megan L; Lundquist, Erik A

    2015-05-28

    The Q neuroblasts in Caenorhabditis elegans display left-right asymmetry in their migration, with QR and descendants on the right migrating anteriorly, and QL and descendants on the left migrating posteriorly. Initial QR and QL migration is controlled by the transmembrane receptors UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and the Fat-like cadherin CDH-4. After initial migration, QL responds to an EGL-20/Wnt signal that drives continued posterior migration by activating MAB-5/Hox activity in QL but not QR. QR expresses the transmembrane protein MIG-13, which is repressed by MAB-5 in QL and which drives anterior migration of QR descendants. A screen for new Q descendant AQR and PQR migration mutations identified mig-13 as well as hse-5, the gene encoding the glucuronyl C5-epimerase enzyme, which catalyzes epimerization of glucuronic acid to iduronic acid in the heparan sulfate side chains of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Of five C. elegans HSPGs, we found that only SDN-1/Syndecan affected Q migrations. sdn-1 mutants showed QR descendant AQR anterior migration defects, and weaker QL descendant PQR migration defects. hse-5 affected initial Q migration, whereas sdn-1 did not. sdn-1 and hse-5 acted redundantly in AQR and PQR migration, but not initial Q migration, suggesting the involvement of other HSPGs in Q migration. Cell-specific expression studies indicated that SDN-1 can act in QR to promote anterior migration. Genetic interactions between sdn-1, mig-13, and mab-5 suggest that MIG-13 and SDN-1 act in parallel to promote anterior AQR migration and that SDN-1 also controls posterior migration. Together, our results indicate previously unappreciated complexity in the role of multiple signaling pathways and inherent left-right asymmetry in the control of Q neuroblast descendant migration. Copyright © 2015 Sundararajan et al.

  5. Evaluation of the benefits of gastric tube feeding in an elderly population.

    PubMed

    Weaver, J P; Odell, P; Nelson, C

    1993-09-01

    To assess the benefits of gastric tube feeding in an elderly community hospital population. One hundred consecutive patients who required feeding gastrostomies from July 1984 through June 1987. Durham (NC) Regional Hospital, a 380-bed community hospital. Patients were evaluated using a quality of life scale (QL scale) adapted from Spitzer's QL Index. The evaluation was based on hospital records at the time of tube placement and interviews with patients or family members at follow-up between June 1991 and March 1992. Subjective evaluation of the benefits of gastric tube feeding were obtained in interviews with patients or their families at follow-up. Overall there was no significant change in the objective evaluation of quality of life at follow-up. Men, patients over 76 years of age, and patients with chronic illnesses such as multiple strokes or dementia showed the poorest response on the QL scale. Subjective evaluation by patients or their family members was positively correlated with objective evaluation on the QL scale. Family members of patients who showed the poorest response on the QL scale were more likely than other family members to respond no to the question, "Would you want this done to you if you were in his/her situation?" Our QL scale provides a good indication of patients' and family members' subjective evaluation of the benefits of gastrostomy tube feeding after 4 to 8 years. Thus, the scale should be helpful to physicians who must consult with patients and their families and make decisions about the use of this procedure. The significant discrepancy between family members' evaluations of the benefit of the procedure to the patient and their refusal of the procedure for themselves if they were in the patient's situation confirms the need for advance directives and the importance of conscientious implementation of the Patient Self Determination Act of 1990.

  6. Validity of the Aboriginal children's health and well-being measure: Aaniish Naa Gegii?

    PubMed

    Young, Nancy L; Wabano, Mary Jo; Usuba, Koyo; Pangowish, Brenda; Trottier, Mélanie; Jacko, Diane; Burke, Tricia A; Corbiere, Rita G

    2015-09-17

    Aboriginal children experience challenges to their health and well-being, yet also have unique strengths. It has been difficult to accurately assess their health outcomes due to the lack of culturally relevant measures. The Aboriginal Children's Health and Well-Being Measure (ACHWM) was developed to address this gap. This paper describes the validity of the new measure. We recruited First Nations children from one First Nation reserve in Canada. Participants were asked to complete the ACHWM independently using a computer tablet. Participants also completed the PedsQL. The ACHWM total score and 4 Quadrant scores were expected to have a moderate correlation of between 0.4 and 0.6 with the parallel PedsQL total score, domains (scale scores), and summary scores. Paired ACHWM and PedsQL scores were available for 48 participants. They had a mean age of 14.6 (range of 7 to 19) years and 60.4 % were girls. The Pearson's correlation between the total ACHWM score and a total PedsQL aggregate score was 0.52 (p = 0.0001). The correlations with the Physical Health Summary Scores and the Psychosocial Health Summary Scores were slightly lower range (r = 0.35 p = 0.016; and r = 0.51 p = 0.0002 respectively) and approached the expected range. The ACHWM Quadrant scores were moderately correlated with the parallel PedsQL domains ranging from r = 0.45 to r = 0.64 (p ≤ 0.001). The Spiritual Quadrant of the ACHWM did not have a parallel domain in the PedsQL. These results establish the validity of the ACHWM. The children gave this measure an Ojibway name, Aaniish Naa Gegii, meaning "how are you?". This measure is now ready for implementation, and will contribute to a better understanding of the health of Aboriginal children.

  7. Observations of Quasi-Love Waves in Tibet Indicates Coherent Deformation of the Crust and Upper Mantle

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, X.; Park, J. J.

    2012-12-01

    The high uplift of the Tibet area is caused by the continental collision between the Indian plate and the Eurasian plate. The style of deformation along with the collision is still being debated, particularly whether the deformation is vertically coherent or not, i.e., whether the upper mantle deforms coherently with the crust. In this work, we have used quasi-Love (QL) waves to constrain the anisotropy pattern around the Tibet region. The existence of anisotropy gradients has been identified with the observations of QL waves, which is a converted Rayleigh-wave motion that follows the arrival of the Love wave. Further, the locations of the anisotropy gradients have been pinned with the delay time between the Love wave and the QL wave, which is determined from cross-correlation. Our results show that the frequency content of Tibetan QL wave is centered around 10 mHz, indicating the depth range of anisotropy should be in the asthenosphere. Most of the scatterers of QL wave that we can detect lie outside the Tibet Plateau. Their distribution correlates well with the boundary of the Persia-Tibet- Burma orogeny, which has been identified from surface geologic data. This correlation, between surface geology and upper mantle anisotropy inferred from QL observations at the orogenic boundary, suggests that the crust and upper mantle of the orogeny are deforming coherently. Other scatterers that are off the Persia-Tibet-Burma orogenic boundary mostly cluster in two locations, the Tarim Basin, and the Bangong-Nujiang Suture, where there could exist contrasting anisotropy patterns in the upper mantle. The deformation in the Tibet region is complicated, yet our research suggests a vertically coherent deformation style of the upper mantle in Tibet.

  8. SDN-1/Syndecan Acts in Parallel to the Transmembrane Molecule MIG-13 to Promote Anterior Neuroblast Migration

    PubMed Central

    Sundararajan, Lakshmi; Norris, Megan L.; Lundquist, Erik A.

    2015-01-01

    The Q neuroblasts in Caenorhabditis elegans display left-right asymmetry in their migration, with QR and descendants on the right migrating anteriorly, and QL and descendants on the left migrating posteriorly. Initial QR and QL migration is controlled by the transmembrane receptors UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and the Fat-like cadherin CDH-4. After initial migration, QL responds to an EGL-20/Wnt signal that drives continued posterior migration by activating MAB-5/Hox activity in QL but not QR. QR expresses the transmembrane protein MIG-13, which is repressed by MAB-5 in QL and which drives anterior migration of QR descendants. A screen for new Q descendant AQR and PQR migration mutations identified mig-13 as well as hse-5, the gene encoding the glucuronyl C5-epimerase enzyme, which catalyzes epimerization of glucuronic acid to iduronic acid in the heparan sulfate side chains of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). Of five C. elegans HSPGs, we found that only SDN-1/Syndecan affected Q migrations. sdn-1 mutants showed QR descendant AQR anterior migration defects, and weaker QL descendant PQR migration defects. hse-5 affected initial Q migration, whereas sdn-1 did not. sdn-1 and hse-5 acted redundantly in AQR and PQR migration, but not initial Q migration, suggesting the involvement of other HSPGs in Q migration. Cell-specific expression studies indicated that SDN-1 can act in QR to promote anterior migration. Genetic interactions between sdn-1, mig-13, and mab-5 suggest that MIG-13 and SDN-1 act in parallel to promote anterior AQR migration and that SDN-1 also controls posterior migration. Together, our results indicate previously unappreciated complexity in the role of multiple signaling pathways and inherent left-right asymmetry in the control of Q neuroblast descendant migration. PMID:26022293

  9. Mapping CHU9D Utility Scores from the PedsQLTM 4.0 SF-15.

    PubMed

    Mpundu-Kaambwa, Christine; Chen, Gang; Russo, Remo; Stevens, Katherine; Petersen, Karin Dam; Ratcliffe, Julie

    2017-04-01

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 Short Form 15 Generic Core Scales (hereafter the PedsQL) and the Child Health Utility-9 Dimensions (CHU9D) are two generic instruments designed to measure health-related quality of life in children and adolescents in the general population and paediatric patient groups living with specific health conditions. Although the PedsQL is widely used among paediatric patient populations, presently it is not possible to directly use the scores from the instrument to calculate quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) for application in economic evaluation because it produces summary scores which are not preference-based. This paper examines different econometric mapping techniques for estimating CHU9D utility scores from the PedsQL for the purpose of calculating QALYs for cost-utility analysis. The PedsQL and the CHU9D were completed by a community sample of 755 Australian adolescents aged 15-17 years. Seven regression models were estimated: ordinary least squares estimator, generalised linear model, robust MM estimator, multivariate factorial polynomial estimator, beta-binomial estimator, finite mixture model and multinomial logistic model. The mean absolute error (MAE) and the mean squared error (MSE) were used to assess predictive ability of the models. The MM estimator with stepwise-selected PedsQL dimension scores as explanatory variables had the best predictive accuracy using MAE and the equivalent beta-binomial model had the best predictive accuracy using MSE. Our mapping algorithm facilitates the estimation of health-state utilities for use within economic evaluations where only PedsQL data is available and is suitable for use in community-based adolescents aged 15-17 years. Applicability of the algorithm in younger populations should be assessed in further research.

  10. Health related quality of life in Dutch infants, toddlers, and young children.

    PubMed

    Schepers, S A; van Oers, H A; Maurice-Stam, H; Huisman, J; Verhaak, C M; Grootenhuis, M A; Haverman, L

    2017-04-24

    The purpose of this study is to provide Dutch normative data and to assess internal consistency and known-groups validity for the TNO AZL Preschool Children Quality of Life (TAPQOL) and the acute version of the generic Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0) in Dutch young children aged 0-7 years. Participants were selected from a panel of a large Dutch market research agency. A sample of 794 parents (response rate 61%, 39% fathers) of children (53% boys) from the general Dutch population, completed an electronic version of the TAPQOL (N = 227 infants aged 0-1 years) or PedsQL 4.0 (N = 293 toddlers aged 2-4 years and N = 274 young children aged 5-7 years). Except for the 'stomach' scale (α = .39), the TAPQOL showed acceptable to excellent internal consistency (α = .60-.88). The PedsQL 4.0 showed acceptable to excellent reliability in children aged 2-4 years (α = .60-.88) and in children aged 5-7 years (α = .76-.90). Children with a chronic health condition had lower scores than healthy children on 3 out of 12 domains of the TAPQOL (p = .001-.013) and on 2 out of 6 domains of the PedsQL 4.0 for children aged 2-4 years (p = .016-.04). The PedsQL 4.0 differentiated on all domains (p < .05) between children aged 5-7 years with and without a chronic health condition. In Dutch children aged 0-7 years old, HRQoL can be relialy measured with the TAPQOL and the PedsQL 4.0. However, it remains unclear whether these HRQoL instruments can distinguish between healthy children and children with a chronic health condition under the age of 5.

  11. Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality Of Life InventoryTM (PedsQLTM) 3.0 neuromuscular module in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

    PubMed

    Hu, Jun; Jiang, Li; Hong, Siqi; Cheng, Li; Kong, Min; Ye, Yuanzhen

    2013-03-15

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory(TM) (PedsQL(TM)) is a widely used instrument to measure pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children aged 2 to 18 years. The current study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the PedsQL(TM) 3.0 Neuromuscular Module in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The PedsQL(TM) 3.0 Neuromuscular Module was translated into Chinese following PedsQL(TM) Measurement Model Translation Methodology. The Chinese version scale was administered to 56 children with DMD and their parents, and the psychometric properties were evaluated. The missing value percentages for each item of the Chinese version scale ranged from 0.00% to 0.54%. Internal consistency reliability approached or exceeded the minimum reliability standard of α = 0.7 (child α = 0.81, parent α = 0.86). Test-retest reliability was satisfactory, with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) of 0.66 for children and 0.88 for parents (P < 0.01). Correlation coefficients between iteims and their hypothesized subscales were higher than those with other subscales (P < 0.05). The subscale of "About My/My Child's Neuromuscular Disease" significantly related to mobility and stair climbing status (Child t = 2.21, Parent t = 2.83, P < 0.05). The inter-correlations among the Chinese version of the PedsQL(TM) 3.0 Neuromuscular Module and the PedsQL(TM) 4.0 Generic Core Scales had medium to large effect sizes (P < 0.05). The child self-report scores were in moderate agreement with the parent proxy-report scores (ICC = 0.51, P < 0.05). The Chinese version of the PedsQLTM 3.0 Neuromuscular Module has acceptable psychometric properties. It is a reliable measure of disease-specific HRQOL in Chinese children with DMD.

  12. Quantum-like microeconomics: Statistical model of distribution of investments and production

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khrennikov, Andrei

    2008-10-01

    In this paper we demonstrate that the probabilistic quantum-like (QL) behavior-the Born’s rule, interference of probabilities, violation of Bell’s inequality, representation of variables by in general noncommutative self-adjoint operators, Schrödinger’s dynamics-can be exhibited not only by processes in the micro world, but also in economics. In our approach the QL-behavior is induced not by properties of systems. Here systems (commodities) are macroscopic. They could not be superpositions of two different states. In our approach the QL-behavior of economical statistics is a consequence of the organization of the process of production as well as investments. In particular, Hamiltonian (“financial energy”) is determined by rate of return.

  13. The quality and availability of hardwood logging residue based on developed quality levels

    Treesearch

    Floyd G. Timson

    1980-01-01

    Hardwood logging residue was examined for salvageable quality material. Four quality levels (QL 1 to QL 4), based on four sets of specifications, were developed. The specifications used surface indicators, sweep, center decay, and piece size to determine quality. Twenty-six percent of the total logging residue (residue ≥ 4 inches in diameter outside bark at...

  14. Reference Values for the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory and the Multidimensional Fatigue Scale in Adolescent Athletes by Sport and Sex.

    PubMed

    Snyder Valier, Alison R; Welch Bacon, Cailee E; Bay, R Curtis; Molzen, Eileen; Lam, Kenneth C; Valovich McLeod, Tamara C

    2017-10-01

    Effective use of patient-rated outcome measures to facilitate optimal patient care requires an understanding of the reference values of these measures within the population of interest. Little is known about reference values for commonly used patient-rated outcome measures in adolescent athletes. To determine reference values for the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) and the Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MFS) in adolescent athletes by sport and sex. Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. A convenience sample of interscholastic adolescent athletes from 9 sports was used. Participants completed the PedsQL and MFS during one testing session at the start of their sport season. Data were stratified by sport and sex. Dependent variables included the total PedsQL score and the 5 PedsQL subscale scores: physical functioning, psychosocial functioning, emotional functioning, social functioning, and school functioning. Dependent variables for the MFS included 3 subscale scores: general functioning, sleep functioning, and cognitive functioning. Summary statistics were reported for total and subscale scores by sport and sex. Among 3574 males and 1329 female adolescent athletes, the PedsQL scores (100 possible points) generally indicated high levels of health regardless of sport played. Mean PedsQL total and subscales scores ranged from 82.6 to 95.7 for males and 83.9 to 95.2 for females. Mean MFS subscale scores (100 possible points) ranged from 74.2 to 90.9 for males and 72.8 to 87.4 for females. Healthy male and female adolescent athletes reported relatively high levels of health on the PedsQL subscales and total scores regardless of sport; no mean scores were lower than 82.6 points for males or 83.9 points for females. On the MFS, males and females tended to report low effect of general and cognitive fatigue regardless of sport; mean scores were higher than 83.5 points for males and 83.8 points for females. Clinically, athletes who score below the

  15. Restoration thinning and influence of tree size and leaf area to sapwood area ratio on water relations of Pinus ponderosa.

    PubMed

    Simonin, K; Kolb, T E; Montes-Helu, M; Koch, G W

    2006-04-01

    Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl. ex P. Laws) forest stand density has increased significantly over the last century (Covington et al. 1997). To understand the effect of increased intraspecific competition, tree size (height and diameter at breast height (DBH)) and leaf area to sapwood area ratio (A(L):A(S)) on water relations, we compared hydraulic conductance from soil to leaf (kl) and transpiration per unit leaf area (Q(L)) of ponderosa pine trees in an unthinned plot to trees in a thinned plot in the first and second years after thinning in a dense Arizona forest. We calculated kl and Q(L) based on whole- tree sap flux measured with heat dissipation sensors. Thinning increased tree predawn water potential within two weeks of treatment. Effects of thinning on kl and Q(L) depended on DBH, A(L):A(S) and drought severity. During severe drought in the first growing season after thinning, kl and Q(L) of trees with low A(L):A(S) (160-250 mm DBH; 9-11 m height) were lower in the thinned plot than the unthinned plot, suggesting a reduction in stomatal conductance (g(s)) or reduced sapwood specific conductivity (K(S)), or both, in response to thinning. In contrast kl and Q(L) were similar in the thinned plot and unthinned plot for trees with high A(L):A(S) (260-360 mm DBH; 13-16 m height). During non-drought periods, kl and Q(L) were greater in the thinned plot than in the unthinned plot for all but the largest trees. Contrary to previous studies of ponderosa pine, A(L):A(S) was positively correlated with tree height and DBH. Furthermore, kl and Q(L) showed a weak negative correlation with tree height and a strong negative correlation with A(S) and thus A(L):A(S) in both the thinned and unthinned plots, suggesting that trees with high A(L):A(S) had lower g(s). Our results highlight the important influence of stand competitive environment on tree-size-related variation in A(L):A(S) and the roles of A(L):A(S) and drought on whole-tree water relations in response to

  16. Lumbar Muscle Cross-Sectional Areas Do Not Predict Clinical Outcomes in Adults With Spinal Stenosis: A Longitudinal Study.

    PubMed

    Gellhorn, Alfred C; Suri, Pradeep; Rundell, Sean D; Olafsen, Nathan; Carlson, M Jake; Johnson, Steve; Fry, Adrielle; Annaswamy, Thiru M; Gilligan, Christopher; Comstock, Bryan; Heagerty, Patrick; Friedly, Janna; Jarvik, Jeffrey G

    2017-06-01

    Minimal longitudinal data exist regarding the role of lumbar musculature in predicting back pain and function. In cross-sectional study designs, there is often atrophy of the segmental multifidus muscle in subjects with low back pain compared with matched controls. However, the cross-sectional design of these studies prevents drawing conclusions regarding whether lumbar muscle characteristics predict or modify future back pain or function. The primary objective of this study is to determine whether the cross-sectional area (CSA) of lumbar muscles predict functional status or back pain at 6- or 12-month follow-up in older adults with spinal degeneration. The secondary objective is to evaluate whether these muscle characteristics improve outcome prediction above and beyond the prognostic information conferred by demographic and psychosocial variables. Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. A total of 209 adults aged 50 years and older with clinical and radiographic spinal stenosis from the Lumbar Epidural steroid injection for Spinal Stenosis (LESS) trial. Using baseline magnetic resonance images, we calculated CSAs of the lumbar multifidus, psoas, and quadratus lumborum muscles using a standardized protocol by manually tracing the borders of each of the muscles. The relationship between lumbar muscle CSAs and baseline measures was assessed with Pearson or Spearman correlation coefficients. The relationship between lumbar muscle characteristics and 6- and 12-month Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RDQ) and back pain Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) responses was further evaluated with multivariate linear regression. A hierarchical approach to the regression was performed: a basic model with factors of conceptual importance including age, gender, BMI, and baseline RDQ score formed the first step. The second and third steps evaluated whether psychosocial variables or muscle measures conferred additional prognostic information to the basic model. Function

  17. Transmembrane protein MIG-13 links the Wnt signaling and Hox genes to the cell polarity in neuronal migration

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Xiangming; Zhou, Fanli; Lv, Sijing; Yi, Peishan; Zhu, Zhiwen; Yang, Yihong; Feng, Guoxin; Li, Wei; Ou, Guangshuo

    2013-01-01

    Directional cell migration is a fundamental process in neural development. In Caenorhabditis elegans, Q neuroblasts on the left (QL) and right (QR) sides of the animal generate cells that migrate in opposite directions along the anteroposterior body axis. The homeobox (Hox) gene lin-39 promotes the anterior migration of QR descendants (QR.x), whereas the canonical Wnt signaling pathway activates another Hox gene, mab-5, to ensure the QL descendants’ (QL.x) posterior migration. However, the regulatory targets of LIN-39 and MAB-5 remain elusive. Here, we showed that MIG-13, an evolutionarily conserved transmembrane protein, cell-autonomously regulates the asymmetric distribution of the actin cytoskeleton in the leading migratory edge. We identified mig-13 as a cellular target of LIN-39 and MAB-5. LIN-39 establishes QR.x anterior polarity by binding to the mig-13 promoter and promoting mig-13 expression, whereas MAB-5 inhibits QL.x anterior polarity by associating with the lin-39 promoter and downregulating lin-39 and mig-13 expression. Thus, MIG-13 links the Wnt signaling and Hox genes that guide migrations, to the actin cytoskeleton, which executes the motility response in neuronal migration. PMID:23784779

  18. [Testicular artery-sparing microscopic varicocelectomy combined with Qilin Pills for bilateral varicocele-induced oligoasthenospermia].

    PubMed

    Zhang, Hua-Feng; Zhao, Jia

    2016-10-01

    To explore the clinical effect of testicular artery-sparing microscopic varicocelectomy (MV) in combination with Qilin Pills (QL) in the treatment of bilateral varicocele-induced oligoasthenospermia. Sixty patients with bilateral varicocele-induced oligoasthenospermia were randomly assigned to receive MV (n=30) or MV+QL (n=30), those in the latter group treated with oral QL for 12 weeks postoperatively. At 4, 8, and 12 weeks after operation, we compared the semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, the levels of serum Inh B, luteinizing hormone (LH) and total testosterone (TT), and the testosterone secretion index (TSI) between the two groups. After surgery, all the patients showed disappearance of varicocele symptoms, remarkably improved semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, serum Inh B and TT levels, TSI, decreased LH and FSH (P<0.01). At 12 weeks after treatment, statistically significant differences were found between the MV and MV+QL groups in Inh B (138.96±22.26 vs 129.54±22.23) ng/L, LH (3.17±0.12 vs 3.59±0.11) IU/L, TT (13.98±3.02 vs 12.68±3.12) nmol/L, and TSI (4.41±0.53 vs 3.53±0.51) nmol/ IU (P<0.05). The pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the MV+QL than in the MV group (73.4% vs 36.6%, P<0.05). Testicular artery-sparing microscopic varicocelectomy combined with Qilin Pills is an effective strategy for the treatment of bilateral varicocele-induced oligoasthenospermia by significantly improving the semen quality of the patient.

  19. Pediatric quality of life in long-term survivors of childhood cancer treated with anthracyclines.

    PubMed

    Ryerson, A Blythe; Wasilewski-Masker, Karen; Border, William L; Goodman, Michael; Meacham, Lillian; Austin, Harland; Marchak, Jordan Gilleland; Mertens, Ann C

    2016-12-01

    Anthracyclines are a common class of drugs used to treat pediatric cancer. While much attention is given to their cardiotoxicity, little is known about the relationship between the use of anthracyclines and health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) outcomes. This study examines the association of anthracycline cardiotoxicity risk status and Pediatric Quality-of-Life (PedsQL) Inventory TM scores in childhood cancer METHODS: Pediatric cancer survivors aged 8-21 who were at least 5 years posttreatment were recruited from a Cancer Survivor Clinic. Participants completed the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and a health behavior survey. Linear regression was used to evaluate the association between PedsQL scores and anthracycline cardiotoxicity risk status and to assess whether self-reported physical activity modified the association. Eighty survivors participated and were characterized by cardiotoxicity risk status (high: 12; moderate: 23, low: 24, no risk: 21) as defined by the Children's Oncology Group (COG). Measures in all PedsQL domains tended to be slightly lower for survivors exposed to anthracyclines as compared to the unexposed. The largest difference in unadjusted mean scores was for social functioning (96.0% for unexposed vs. 91.3% for exposed, P = 0.0068). There was also an inverse dose-response relation between adjusted PedsQL scores and increasing anthracycline cardiotoxicity risk; this association was not modified by physical activity level. These data indicate that regular psychosocial assessments, such as those currently recommended by the COG, may be especially important for survivors treated with anthracyclines. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  20. Measuring Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescent Populations: An Empirical Comparison of the CHU9D and the PedsQLTM 4.0 Short Form 15.

    PubMed

    Petersen, Karin Dam; Chen, Gang; Mpundu-Kaambwa, Christine; Stevens, Katherine; Brazier, John; Ratcliffe, Julie

    2018-02-01

    The aim was to conduct an empirical assessment of the measurement properties of the preference-based Child Health Utility 9D (CHU9D) versus the non-preference-based Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL)™ 4.0 Short Form 15 Generic Core Scales (referred to as 'PedsQL') in an Australian community-based sample of adolescents. An online survey including the CHU9D, the PedsQL, a self-reported general health question, and socio-demographic questions was administered to adolescents (aged 15-17 years). Descriptive summary statistics and psychometric analyses were conducted to assess levels of agreement and convergent validity between the instruments. A total of 775 adolescents (mean ± SD age 15.8 ± 0.8 years) completed the survey. The mean ± SD scores of the CHU9D and the PedsQL were 0.72 ± 0.22 and 72.86 ± 16.56, respectively. For both instruments, there were significant differences in health-related quality of life scores according to self-reported health status and socio-economic status. Overall, both the Spearman's correlation (r = 0.63) and the intraclass correlation coefficient (0.77) suggested a high level of agreement. The findings indicate good levels of agreement overall between the CHU9D and PedsQL and provide further support for the validity of the application of the CHU9D in the economic evaluation of adolescent health care treatment and service programmes.

  1. Establishment of the TREECS Platform: A Survey of Existing Tools, Portals, and Frameworks

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-12-01

    advanced analysis tiers may require the user to download analysis components that will need to be run on his/her system. TREECS initially focuses on...location, water, economy, quality of life , and infrastructure (Jenicek and Goran 2005). Potential indicators for measuring regional resources within...County Quality of Life Sustainability QL1 Crime rate National Archive of Criminal Justice Data (NACJD) County QL2 Housing availability US Census

  2. Excess glycogen does not resolve high ultimate pH of oxidative muscle.

    PubMed

    England, Eric M; Matarneh, Sulaiman K; Oliver, Emily M; Apaoblaza, Ariel; Scheffler, Tracy L; Shi, Hao; Gerrard, David E

    2016-04-01

    Skeletal muscle glycogen content can impact the extent of postmortem pH decline. Compared to glycolytic muscles, oxidative muscles contain lower glycogen levels antemortem which may contribute to the higher ultimate pH. In an effort to explore further the participation of glycogen in postmortem metabolism, we postulated that increasing the availability of glycogen would drive additional pH decline in oxidative muscles to equivalent pH values similar to the ultimate pH of glycolytic muscles. Glycolysis and pH declines were compared in porcine longissimus lumborum (glycolytic) and masseter (oxidative) muscles using an in vitro system in the presence of excess glycogen. The ultimate pH of the system containing longissimus lumborum reached a value similar to that observed in intact muscle. The pH decline of the system containing masseter samples stopped prematurely resulting in a higher ultimate pH which was similar to that of intact masseter muscle. To investigate further, we titrated powdered longissimus lumborum and masseter samples in the reaction buffer. As the percentage of glycolytic sample increased, the ultimate pH decreased. These data show that oxidative muscle produces meat with a high ultimate pH regardless of glycogen content and suggest that inherent muscle factors associated with glycolytic muscle control the extent of pH decline in pig muscles. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Assessing health-related quality of life in children with recurrent headache: reliability and validity of the PedsQLTM 4.0 in a pediatric headache sample.

    PubMed

    Connelly, Mark; Rapoff, Michael A

    2006-08-01

    To evaluate the reliability and validity of a commonly used measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL), the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0), in a sample of children with a recurrent headache syndrome. Participants were 40 children aged 7-12 who completed measures of HRQOL, headache-related disability, and headache activity during a baseline period and following a self-directed cognitive-behavioral intervention. The data are supportive of the reliability (internal consistency and test-retest) and validity (criterion related, convergent, known-groups, and responsiveness to intervention) of the PedsQL 4.0 within a pediatric headache sample. We conclude that the PedsQL 4.0 is a reliable and valid measure of HRQOL in children with recurrent headache and captures important information not routinely evaluated in chronic pain populations.

  4. Beef longissimus slice shear force measurement among steak locations and institutions.

    PubMed

    Wheeler, T L; Shackelford, S D; Koohmaraie, M

    2007-09-01

    The objectives of this study were 1) to determine which longissimus thoracis et lumborum steaks were appropriate for slice shear force measurement and 2) to determine the among and within institution variation in LM slice shear force values of 6 institutions after they received expert training on the procedure and a standard kit of equipment. In experiment 1, longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscles were obtained from the left sides of 50 US Select carcasses. Thirteen longissimus thoracis and 12 longissimus lumborum steaks were cut 2.54 cm thick from each muscle. Slice shear force was measured on each steak. Mean slice shear force among steak locations (1 to 25) ranged from 19.7 to 27.3 kg. Repeatability of slice shear force (based on variance) among steak locations ranged from 0.71 to 0.96. In experiment 2, the longissimus thoracis et lumborum were obtained from the left sides of 154 US Select beef carcasses. Eight 2.54-cm-thick steaks were obtained from the caudal end of each frozen longissimus thoracis, and six 2.54-cm-thick steaks were obtained from the cranial end of each frozen longissimus lumborum. Seven pairs of consecutive steaks were assigned for measurement of slice shear force. Seven institutions were assigned to steak pairs within each carcass using a randomized complete block design, such that each institution was assigned to each steak pair 22 times. Repeatability estimates for slice shear force for the 7 institutions were 0.89, 0.83, 0.91, 0.90, 0.89, 0.76, and 0.89, respectively, for institutions 1 to 7. Mean slice shear force values were least (P <0.05) for institutions 3 (22.7 kg) and 7 (22.3 kg) and were greatest (P <0.05) for institutions 5 (27.3 kg) and 6 (27.6 kg). Institutions with greater mean slice shear force (institutions 5 and 6) used cooking methods that required more (P <0.05) time (32.0 and 36.9 min vs. 5.5 to 11.8 min) to reach the end point temperature (71 degrees C) and resulted in greater (P <0.05) cooking loss (both 26.6% vs. 14

  5. Childhood obesity, self-esteem and health-related quality of life among urban primary schools children in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

    PubMed

    Lee, P Y; Cheah, W l; Chang, C T; Siti Raudzah, G

    2012-08-01

    There is limited data on childhood obesity and its impact on children from diverse cultural backgrounds. This study is aimed at determining the association between obesity, self-esteem and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among Malaysian urban primary school children of different ethnicity. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 311 children aged 11-13 years from primary schools in Kuching, Sarawak. Self-esteem and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were measured using the Lawrence Self-esteem Questionnaire (LAWSEQ) questionnaire and the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), respectively. Body weight and height were taken and body mass index for age calculated. The prevalence of overweight and obesity among the children were 18.2% and 15.2% respectively. Parent-proxy and child self-reported PedsQL scores were higher for normal weight children compared to thin and obese children, but lower than overweight children. At the subscale level, only parent-proxy PedsQL scores in psychosocial health and emotional component were significantly different between overweight and obese children (p=0.019, p=0.02). The Self-esteem score was significantly correlated with parent and child PedsQL scores. Although obesity was associated with lower HRQOL among children, both parent and child PedsQL scores among the overweight group were higher than that for the normal weight group. Overweight and obesity did affect quality of life and self-esteem of children in this study, particularly in the areas of psychosocial and emotional health. Policy makers and programme managers should take into consideration the impact of obesity on children and parents in designing intervention programmes.

  6. Fatigue in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: reliability of the "Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Multidimensional Fatigue Scale".

    PubMed

    Paulo, Luciana Tudech S P; Len, Claudio A; Hilario, Maria Odete E; Pedroso, Soraya A; Vitalle, Maria Sylvia S; Terreri, Maria Teresa

    2015-01-01

    The aim of the study was (1) to translate the "Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Multidimensional Fatigue Scale" (PedsQL-Fatigue) into Brazilian Portuguese language and culture and evaluate its reliability and (2) to measure fatigue among patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA): (1) Translation of the PedsQL-Fatigue by two bilingual researchers; (2) Backtranslation into English assessed by the authors of the original version; (3) Pilot study with five patients followed in the Pediatric Rheumatology Outpatient Clinic and their parents; and (4) Field study and assessment of measurement properties (internal consistency, reproducibility, and construct validity). In this stage, the scale was administered to 67 patients with JIA and 63 healthy individuals, aged from 2 to 18 years old, matched by age (from 2 to 4, 5 to 7, 8 to 12, and from 13 to 18 years old). Cronbach's alpha coefficient ranged from 0.6 to 0.8 for children and parents, indicating the instrument's good internal consistency. The scale's construct validity was confirmed by a satisfactory Spearman's coefficient between the PedsQL-Fatigue and the generic PedsQL 4.0 (0.840 for the children and 0.742 for the parents). Reproducibility was also adequate (0.764 for the children and 0.938 for the parents). No differences were found between the scores obtained by the JIA group and control group, though lower scores were observed among patients with clinically active JIA when compared to those without clinical activity. The PedsQL-Fatigue is a valid and reliable tool, and that can be used to measure fatigue among patients with JIA.

  7. Substituting values for censored data from Texas, USA, reservoirs inflated and obscured trends in analyses commonly used for water quality target development.

    PubMed

    Grantz, Erin; Haggard, Brian; Scott, J Thad

    2018-06-12

    We calculated four median datasets (chlorophyll a, Chl a; total phosphorus, TP; and transparency) using multiple approaches to handling censored observations, including substituting fractions of the quantification limit (QL; dataset 1 = 1QL, dataset 2 = 0.5QL) and statistical methods for censored datasets (datasets 3-4) for approximately 100 Texas, USA reservoirs. Trend analyses of differences between dataset 1 and 3 medians indicated percent difference increased linearly above thresholds in percent censored data (%Cen). This relationship was extrapolated to estimate medians for site-parameter combinations with %Cen > 80%, which were combined with dataset 3 as dataset 4. Changepoint analysis of Chl a- and transparency-TP relationships indicated threshold differences up to 50% between datasets. Recursive analysis identified secondary thresholds in dataset 4. Threshold differences show that information introduced via substitution or missing due to limitations of statistical methods biased values, underestimated error, and inflated the strength of TP thresholds identified in datasets 1-3. Analysis of covariance identified differences in linear regression models relating transparency-TP between datasets 1, 2, and the more statistically robust datasets 3-4. Study findings identify high-risk scenarios for biased analytical outcomes when using substitution. These include high probability of median overestimation when %Cen > 50-60% for a single QL, or when %Cen is as low 16% for multiple QL's. Changepoint analysis was uniquely vulnerable to substitution effects when using medians from sites with %Cen > 50%. Linear regression analysis was less sensitive to substitution and missing data effects, but differences in model parameters for transparency cannot be discounted and could be magnified by log-transformation of the variables.

  8. Thermal transport in bismuth telluride quintuple layer: mode-resolved phonon properties and substrate effects

    PubMed Central

    Shao, Cheng; Bao, Hua

    2016-01-01

    The successful exfoliation of atomically-thin bismuth telluride (Bi2Te3) quintuple layer (QL) attracts tremendous research interest in this strongly anharmonic quasi-two-dimensional material. The thermal transport properties of this material are not well understood, especially the mode-wise properties and when it is coupled with a substrate. In this work, we have performed molecular dynamics simulations and normal mode analysis to study the mode-resolved thermal transport in freestanding and supported Bi2Te3 QL. The detailed mode-wise phonon properties are calculated and the accumulated thermal conductivities with respect to phonon mean free path (MFP) are constructed. It is shown that 60% of the thermal transport is contributed by phonons with MFP longer than 20 nm. Coupling with a-SiO2 substrate leads to about 60% reduction of thermal conductivity. Through varying the interfacial coupling strength and the atomic mass of substrate, we also find that phonon in Bi2Te3 QL is more strongly scattered by interfacial potential and its transport process is less affected by the dynamics of substrate. Our study provides an in-depth understanding of heat transport in Bi2Te3 QL and is helpful in further tailoring its thermal property through nanostructuring. PMID:27263656

  9. Feasibility, reliability and validity of the Thai version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 3.0 cerebral palsy module.

    PubMed

    Tantilipikorn, Pinailug; Watter, Pauline; Prasertsukdee, Saipin

    2013-03-01

    Quality of Life (QOL) and Health-related Quality of Life (HRQOL) are now considered as necessary outcome measures for children with cerebral palsy (CP). Various reliable and valid condition-specific HRQOL tools are available for these children. One of these is Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 3.0 CP module which has been widely used and was translated to many languages. As no Thai version is available, the authors have completed this translation. This study then aimed to investigate psychometric properties of the newly translated Thai PedsQL 3.0 CP module and to establish parent confidence in their ratings in the translated tool. Translation of the PedsQL 3.0 CP module was performed based on linguistic translation guidelines. Then, the psychometric properties of the Thai version were established. PedsQL 3.0 CP module was completed by children with CP and their parents or caregivers twice with 2-4 weeks. Respondents were 97 parents or caregivers and 54 children. Minimal missing data were found. Acceptable internal consistency was supported except for Movement and Balance Scale (self-report). Intraclass correlation coefficients for parent proxy and self-report were good to excellent (0.684-0.950). The feasibility, reliability and validity of the translated tool were supported.

  10. Short-term family-centered workshop for children with developmental delays enhances family functioning and satisfaction: A prospective clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Hsieh, Ru-Lan; Hsieh, Wen-Huei; Lee, Wen-Chung

    2016-08-01

    We investigated the clinical efficacy on family functioning and parental satisfaction of a short-term family-centered workshop for children with developmental delays.A total of 32 children with developmental delays and their parents participated in 2-hour weekly group therapy sessions over 6 weeks. The workshop was conducted by rehabilitation professionals and teachers using a family-centered multidisciplinary approach. Both before and after the 6-week workshop, the parents were administered the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Family Impact Module, the PedsQL Healthcare Satisfaction Module, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life brief assessment instrument. Overall satisfaction with the workshop was also evaluated.Significant improvements were noted in physical aspect (P = 0.03), communication (P = 0.002), and daily activities (P = 0.04) in the PedsQL Family Impact Module, and in communication (P = 0.03) and technical skills (P = 0.05) in the PedsQL Healthcare Satisfaction Module. Overall satisfaction with the workshop was rated as very high. There was no significant effect on psychological distress or quality of life.Short-term family-centered workshops for children with developmental delays improved family functioning and the parental perception of satisfaction, including health care satisfaction.

  11. Factorial invariance of child self-report across healthy and chronic health condition groups: a confirmatory factor analysis utilizing the PedsQLTM 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Limbers, Christine A; Newman, Daniel A; Varni, James W

    2008-07-01

    The objective of the present study was to examine the factorial invariance of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales for child self-report across 11,433 children ages 5-18 with chronic health conditions and healthy children. Multigroup Confirmatory Factor Analysis was performed specifying a five-factor model. Two multigroup structural equation models, one with constrained parameters and the other with unconstrained parameters, were proposed in order to compare the factor loadings across children with chronic health conditions and healthy children. Metric invariance (i.e., equal factor loadings) was demonstrated based on stability of the Comparative Fit Index (CFI) between the two models, and several additional indices of practical fit including the root mean squared error of approximation, the Non-normed Fit Index, and the Parsimony Normed Fit Index. The findings support an equivalent five-factor structure on the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales across healthy and chronic health condition groups. These findings suggest that when differences are found across chronic health condition and healthy groups when utilizing the PedsQL, these differences are more likely real differences in self-perceived health-related quality of life, rather than differences in interpretation of the PedsQL items as a function of health status.

  12. A Visual Interface for Querying Heterogeneous Phylogenetic Databases.

    PubMed

    Jamil, Hasan M

    2017-01-01

    Despite the recent growth in the number of phylogenetic databases, access to these wealth of resources remain largely tool or form-based interface driven. It is our thesis that the flexibility afforded by declarative query languages may offer the opportunity to access these repositories in a better way, and to use such a language to pose truly powerful queries in unprecedented ways. In this paper, we propose a substantially enhanced closed visual query language, called PhyQL, that can be used to query phylogenetic databases represented in a canonical form. The canonical representation presented helps capture most phylogenetic tree formats in a convenient way, and is used as the storage model for our PhyloBase database for which PhyQL serves as the query language. We have implemented a visual interface for the end users to pose PhyQL queries using visual icons, and drag and drop operations defined over them. Once a query is posed, the interface translates the visual query into a Datalog query for execution over the canonical database. Responses are returned as hyperlinks to phylogenies that can be viewed in several formats using the tree viewers supported by PhyloBase. Results cached in PhyQL buffer allows secondary querying on the computed results making it a truly powerful querying architecture.

  13. Computational Modelling and Movement Analysis of Hip Joint with Muscles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Siswanto, W. A.; Yoon, C. C.; Salleh, S. Md.; Ngali, M. Z.; Yusup, Eliza M.

    2017-01-01

    In this study, the model of hip joint and the main muscles are modelled by finite elements. The parts included in the model are hip joint, hemi pelvis, gluteus maximus, quadratus femoris and gamellus inferior. The materials that used in these model are isotropic elastic, Mooney Rivlin and Neo-hookean. The hip resultant force of the normal gait and stair climbing are applied on the model of hip joint. The responses of displacement, stress and strain of the muscles are then recorded. FEBio non-linear solver for biomechanics is employed to conduct the simulation of the model of hip joint with muscles. The contact interfaces that used in this model are sliding contact and tied contact. From the analysis results, the gluteus maximus has the maximum displacement, stress and strain in the stair climbing. Quadratus femoris and gamellus inferior has the maximum displacement and strain in the normal gait however the maximum stress in the stair climbing. Besides that, the computational model of hip joint with muscles is produced for research and investigation platform. The model can be used as a visualization platform of hip joint.

  14. Querying Proofs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aspinall, David; Denney, Ewen; Lueth, Christoph

    2012-01-01

    We motivate and introduce a query language PrQL designed for inspecting machine representations of proofs. PrQL natively supports hiproofs which express proof structure using hierarchical nested labelled trees. The core language presented in this paper is locally structured (first-order), with queries built using recursion and patterns over proof structure and rule names. We define the syntax and semantics of locally structured queries, demonstrate their power, and sketch some implementation experiments.

  15. Patient-reported outcomes of occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fusions in children.

    PubMed

    Vedantam, Aditya; Hansen, Daniel; Briceño, Valentina; Brayton, Alison; Jea, Andrew

    2017-01-01

    OBJECTIVE There is limited literature on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes in pediatric patients undergoing surgery for craniovertebral junction pathology. The aim of the present study was to assess surgical and quality of life outcomes in children who had undergone occipitocervical or atlantoaxial fusion. METHODS The authors retrospectively reviewed the demographics, procedural data, and outcomes of 77 consecutive pediatric patients who underwent posterior occipitocervical or atlantoaxial fusion between 2008 and 2015 at Texas Children's Hospital. Outcome measures (collected at last follow-up) included mortality, neurological improvement, complications, Scoliosis Research Society Outcomes Measure-22 (SRS-22) score, SF-36 score, Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to identify factors affecting PROs and HRQOL scores at follow-up. RESULTS The average age in this series was 10.6 ± 4.5 years. The median follow-up was 13.9 months (range 0.5-121.5 months). Sixty-three patients (81.8%) were treated with occipitocervical fusion, and 14 patients (18.1%) were treated with atlantoaxial fusion. The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade at discharge was unchanged in 73 patients (94.8%). The average PRO metrics at the time of last follow-up were as follows: SRS-22 score, 4.2 ± 0.8; NDI, 3.0 ± 2.6; the parent's PedsQL (ParentPedsQL) score, 69.6 ± 22.7, and child's PedsQL score, 75.5 ± 18.7. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that older age at surgery was significantly associated with lower SRS-22 scores at follow-up (B = -0.06, p = 0.03), and the presence of comorbidities was associated with poorer ParentPedsQL scores at follow-up (B = -19.68, p = 0.03). CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fusions in children preserve neurological function and are associated with

  16. Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the pediatric quality of life inventory 4.0 Generic core scales among children with short stature.

    PubMed

    Wu, Hua-hong; Li, Hui; Gao, Qian

    2013-05-30

    The quality of life in children with short stature was rarely studied in China, so we explore these children's quality of life and psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0(PedsQL4.0) Generic Core Scales among children with short stature. A total of 201 children aged 8 ~ 18 years from the short stature clinic and other clinics of capital institute of pediatrics attended this study. The questionnaires include demographic information and PedsQL4.0 generic core scales. According to children's height, we divided them into three groups: short stature, normal short and normal group, then compared the score of scales by the height category. Moreover, we analyzed the reliability and validity of PedsQL4.0 generic core scales in these 201 children. The child self-report total PedsQL mean score, for the short stature, normal short and normal groups were 77.77 ± 9.69, 83.50 ± 8.56 and 87.36 ± 7.23; the parent-proxy total PedsQL mean score were 77.62 ± 10.50, 82.69 ± 8.35 and 84.91 ± 9.96 respectively. Both for children self- and parent proxy-reports, the Cronbach's α coefficients of total scale, psychosocial health and social functioning ranged between 0.74 and 0.80, it ranged between 0.51 and 0.66 in other dimensions. For child self-reports, the correlation coefficients of 17 items' scores (total 23 items) with the scores of dimensions they belong to were above 0.5, with the highest 0.759; the other 6 items' correlation coefficients were below 0.5, with the lowest 0.280. For parent proxy-reports, the correlation coefficients of 19 items' scores with the scores of dimension they belong to were above 0.5, with the highest 0.793, the other 4 items' below 0.5 with the lowest 0.243. The quality of life in children with short stature is worse than their normal peers by Peds QL4.0 generic core scales, the statues of their quality of life was positively related to their stature.

  17. [Official position of the Chilean Society of Climacteric on the management of climacteric women].

    PubMed

    Blümel, Juan Enrique; Aravena, Hernán; Brantes, Sergio; Cruzat, Luis; Lavín, Pablo; Montaño, René; Navarrete, Isidoro; Osorio, Eduardo

    2010-05-01

    The health of many women is affected in the climacteric period, either by symptoms that deteriorate their life quality (QL) or by chronic diseases that affect their life expectancy. Therefore, it is mandatory to evaluate these two aspects, having as core objectives for any eventual therapeutic intervention, the improvement of QL and the reduction of cardiovascular risk and fractures. To evaluate QL it is mandatory to follow structured interviews that weigh systematically climacteric symptoms such as the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). The paradigm of the metabolic syndrome constitutes a suitable frame to evaluate cardiovascular risk. Age, a low body weight, a history of fractures and steroid use are risk factors for fractures. A proper evaluation will allow the detection of patients with a low QL or a high risk for chronic disease, therefore identifying those women who require therapy. The clinical management should include recommendations to improve lifestyles, increase physical activity, avoidance of smoking and to follow a low calorie diet rich in vegetables and fruits. Hormonal therapy is the most efficient treatment to improve the QL and its risk is minimized when it is used in low doses or by the transdermal route. Tibolone is an alternative, especially useful in patients with mood disorders and sexual dysfunction. Vaginal estrogens are also a good option, when urogenital symptoms are the main complaint. Some antidepressants can be an effective therapy in patients with vasomotor symptoms who are not willing or cannot use estrogens. The effectiveness of any alternative therapy for menopausal symptoms has not been demonstrated. Dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity and insulin resistance should be managed according to guidelines. Calcium and vitamin D have positive effects on bone density and certain tendency to reduce vertebral fractures. Bisphosphonates decrease the risk of vertebral fractures.

  18. Quality of life after endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy for primary plantar hyperhidrosis.

    PubMed

    Rieger, Roman; Pedevilla, Sonja; Lausecker, Johannes

    2015-04-01

    Primary plantar hyperhidrosis is characterised by excessive secretion of the sweat glands of the feet and may lead to significant limitations in private and professional lifestyle. The aim of this prospective study was to assess the effect of endoscopic lumbar sympathectomy (ESL) on the quality of life (QL) of patients with primary plantar hyperhidrosis. Bilateral ESL was performed on 52 patients, 31 men and 21 women with primary plantar hyperhidrosis. Perioperative morbidity and clinical results were evaluated in all patients after a mean follow-up of 15 months. Postoperative QL was examined with the SF-36V2 questionnaire and the hyperhidrosis-specific questionnaires devised by Milanez de Campos and Keller. All procedures were carried out endoscopically with no perioperative morbidity. Plantar hyperhidrosis was eliminated in 50 patients (96%) and two patients (4%) suffered a relapse. Unwanted side effects occurred in the form of compensatory sweating in 34 (65%) and in the form of postsympathectomy neuralgia in 19 patients (37%). Ninety six percentage of patients were satisfied with the postoperative result and 88% would have the surgery repeated. The SF-36V2 questionnaire revealed a significant improvement of QL after lumbar sympathectomy in physical health (physical component summary, p < 0.01) as well as mental health (mental component summary, p < 0.05). Improved QL was also demonstrated in the Milanez de Campos questionnaire in the dimensions functionality/social interactions (p < 0.01), intimacy (p < 0.01), emotionality (p < 0.01) and specific circumstances (p < 0.01) as well as in the Keller questionnaire in the area of plantar hyperhidrosis (p < 0.01). The performance of an ESL in patients with primary plantar hyperhidrosis leads to the effective elimination of excessive sweat secretion of the feet and to an increase in QL.

  19. Screening for cognitive deficits in 8 to 14-year old children with cerebellar tumors using self-report measures of executive and behavioral functioning and health-related quality of life.

    PubMed

    Bull, Kim S; Liossi, Christina; Peacock, Janet L; Yuen, Ho Ming; Kennedy, Colin R

    2015-12-01

    We aimed to identify a brief screening measure for detection of cognitive deficit in children treated for cerebellar tumors that would be useful in clinical practice. A sample of 72 children, aged 8-14 years, and within 3 years post diagnosis for standard-risk medulloblastoma (n = 37) or low-grade cerebellar astrocytoma (n = 35) and 38 children in a nontumor group were assessed using teacher-, parent-, and child-report of the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). The accuracy of these scores as a screen for a full-scale Intelligence Quotient (FSIQ) < 80 on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC-IV UK) was assessed using their receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. The questionnaires with the highest areas under the ROC curves were the child- and parent-report PedsQL, the teacher-report BRIEF, and the SDQ. At optimal cutoff scores, their sensitivities (95% CIs) to cases of FSIQ < 80 were 84 (60-96)%, 65 (41-84)%, 79 (54-93)%, and 84 (60-96)%, and their specificities (95% CIs) were 79 (68-86)%, 87 (77-93)%, 77 (66-86)%, and 71 (64-84)% respectively. All cases of FSIQ < 80 screened positive on either teacher-report SDQ or self-report PedsQL. The PedsQL child- and parent-report and the teacher-report BRIEF and SDQ have moderately good accuracy for discriminating between children with and without a FSIQ < 80. The PedsQL could be used in a clinical setting, and the BRIEF and SDQ in an educational setting, to screen for cases with FSIQ < 80 in children treated for brain tumors. © The Author(s) 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Society for Neuro-Oncology. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  20. Health-related quality of life associated with bullying and aggression: a cross-sectional study in English secondary schools.

    PubMed

    Fantaguzzi, Catherine; Allen, Elizabeth; Miners, Alec; Christie, Deborah; Opondo, Charles; Sadique, Zia; Fletcher, Adam; Grieve, Richard; Bonell, Chris; Viner, Russell M; Legood, Rosa

    2018-06-01

    Associations between adolescent health-related quality of life (HRQoL), bullying, and aggression are not well understood. We used baseline data from a large-cluster randomized school trial to study the relationship between HRQoL, bullying experience, and other demographic factors. Cross-sectional self-reported questionnaires collected pre-randomization from the on-going INCLUSIVE trial. The questionnaires were completed in the classroom. The Gatehouse Bullying Scale measured bullying victimization and the Edinburgh Study of Youth Transitions and Crime school misbehavior subscale (ESYTC) measured aggressive behaviors. HRQoL was assessed using the Child Health Utility 9 Dimensions (CHU-9D) and general quality of life using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Participants were a cohort of year 7 students (age 11-12 years) from 40 state secondary schools in England. Descriptive statistics for the CHU-9D and PedsQL were calculated using standard methods with tests for differences in median scores by sex assessed using quantile regression. Correlation between HRQoL measures was conducted using Spearman's rank correlation coefficients. Predictors of HRQoL were identified using univariate and multiple regressions. A total of 6667 students filled out the questionnaire. The CHU-9D was correlated with the PedsQL (0.63, p < 0.001). The multivariable regression results suggest that if students were bullied frequently and upset it resulted in a decrement in CHU-9D scores of (-0.108) and fall in PedsQL score of (-16.2). The impact of the antisocial/aggressive behavior on the ESYTC scale resulted in a utility decrement of -0.004 and fall of -.5 on the PedsQL. Adolescents' involvement in bullying and aggression is a strong correlate of HRQoL. These data have important implications for the potential cost-effectiveness of reducing bullying and aggression in schools.

  1. Fatigue and health related quality of life in children and adolescents with cancer.

    PubMed

    Nunes, Michelle Darezzo Rodrigues; Jacob, Eufemia; Bomfim, Emiliana Omena; Lopes-Junior, Luis Carlos; de Lima, Regina Aparecida Garcia; Floria-Santos, Milena; Nascimento, Lucila Castanheira

    2017-08-01

    The study examined the different dimensions of fatigue (general, sleep/rest, cognitive), health related quality of life (HRQL) (physical, emotional, cognitive, social), and the relationships between fatigue and HRQL in hospitalized children and adolescents with cancer in Brazil. Participants were recruited from a pediatric oncology inpatient unit in a comprehensive cancer care hospital in southeast Brazil. They completed the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale and the PedsQL Inventory of Quality of Life (Generic and Cancer module) once during hospitalization. The majority (66.7%) of the participants (n = 38; mean age 12.1 ± 2.9 years) had total fatigue scores < 75 on 0 to 100 scale; with the mean total fatigue score of 63.8 ± 18.5. The majority (72.2% generic; 83.3% cancer modules) had total PedsQL scores < 75 on 0 to 100 scale. The mean PedsQL score on generic module (61.1 ± 17.0) was similar to the mean PedsQL score cancer module (59.1 ± 16.7). Significant correlations were found between total fatigue and quality of life generic (r = 0.63, p = 0.000) and cancer module (r = 0.74, p = 0.000). The study is the first to report fatigue and health related quality of life in hospitalized children and adolescents with cancer in Brazil. Similar to experiences of other children in the world, our findings indicate that children and adolescents with cancer had problems with fatigue that were associated with low HRQL. Future studies are recommended to examine interventions (exercise, leisurely activities) that may alleviate fatigue and improve HRQL in pediatric patients with cancer. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Exploring the response shift phenomenon in childhood patients with cancer and its effect on health-related quality of life.

    PubMed

    Brinksma, Aeltsje; Tissing, Wim J E; Sulkers, Esther; Kamps, Willem A; Roodbol, Petrie F; Sanderman, Robbert

    2014-01-01

    To explore the response shift phenomenon in pediatric patients with cancer and to determine its effects on ratings of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Retrospective pre- and post-test design. Pediatric oncology department in the northern part of the Netherlands. 37 children newly diagnosed with cancer and 80 parents. The then-test method was used to determine response shift. HRQOL was assessed within two weeks postdiagnosis (pretest) and three months later (post-test) using both child and parent reports of PedsQL and Cantril's ladder. The post-test and then-test were administered concurrently. Overall and multidimensional HRQOL. Scores on Cantril's then-test were lower than the pretest in both child and parent reports, indicating response shift in the assessment of overall HRQOL. Children experienced a greater response shift than parents. No differences were found between the PedsQL then- and pretests. Both child- and parent-report ratings of overall HRQOL were affected by response shift, resulting in an underestimation of the improvement in overall HRQOL between diagnosis and three months postdiagnosis. No response shift was demonstrated in the more specific domains of HRQOL (PedsQL). Knowledge of the response shift phenomenon helps nurses to better interpret the outcomes of HRQOL. The use of the PedsQL instrument is recommended in future studies that aim to demonstrate changes in HRQOL.

  3. A pilot study to evaluate the feasibility of individualized yoga for inpatient children receiving intensive chemotherapy.

    PubMed

    Diorio, Caroline; Schechter, Tal; Lee, Michelle; O'Sullivan, Cathy; Hesser, Tanya; Tomlinson, Deborah; Piscione, Janine; Armstrong, Christine; Tomlinson, George; Sung, Lillian

    2015-01-24

    Fatigue is an important problem in paediatric cancer patients and yoga may be an effective intervention. The primary objective was to determine the feasibility of individualized yoga for hospitalized children receiving intensive chemotherapy. We included English-speaking children and adolescents aged 7-18 years receiving intensive chemotherapy or haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Yoga was conducted three times weekly for three weeks. The primary outcome was feasibility, defined as ability to deliver at least 60% of planned sessions. Secondary outcomes were parent-reported Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, Fatigue Scale-Parent, PedsQL Generic Core Scales and PedsQL Acute Cancer Module. Between January and October 2013, 11 patients were enrolled. Median age was 14.0 (range 7.7-16.4) years and 6 (55%) were boys. Yoga was feasible with 10/11 participants meeting the threshold for feasibility. The median number of yoga sessions was 9 (range 3-13). No adverse events were attributed to yoga. Mean±standard deviation for the day 21 proxy-reported PedsQL general fatigue scores was 55.6±15.5. Qualitative comments suggested design changes for future yoga studies. Individualized yoga is feasible for inpatient children receiving intensive chemotherapy. Future work will include development and conduct of a randomized trial for fatigue amelioration. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02105389.

  4. Traditional and Innovative Promotional Strategies of Tobacco Cessation Services: A Review of the Literature

    PubMed Central

    Momin, Behnoosh; Neri, Antonio; McCausland, Kristen; Duke, Jennifer; Hansen, Heather; Kahende, Jennifer; Zhang, Lei; Stewart, Sherri L.

    2017-01-01

    Introduction An estimated 43.5 million American adults currently smoke cigarettes. Well-designed tobacco education campaigns with adequate reach increase cessation and reduce tobacco use. Smokers report great interest in quitting but few use effective treatments including quitlines. This review examined traditional (TV, radio, print ads) versus innovative tobacco cessation (internet, social media) promotions for quitline services. Methods Between November 2011 and January 2012, searches were conducted on EBSCO, PubMed, Wilson, OCLC, CQ Press, Google Scholar, Gale, LexisNexis, and JSTOR. Results Existing literature shows that the amount of radio and print advertising, and promotion of free cessation medications increases quitline (QL) call volume. Television advertising volume seems to be the best predictor of QL service awareness. Much of the literature on Internet advertising compares the characteristics of participants recruited for studies through various channels. The majority of the papers indicated that Internet-recruited participants were younger; this was the only demographic characteristic with high agreement across studies. Conclusions Traditional media was only studied within mass media campaigns with TV ads having a consistent impact on increasing calls to quitlines, therefore, it is hard to distinguish the impact of traditional media as an independent QL promotion intervention. With innovative media, while many QL services have a presence on social media sites, there is no literature on evaluating the effectiveness of these channels for quitline promotion. PMID:24515948

  5. Nornalup, a new genus of pselaphine beetle from southwestern Australia (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae, Pselaphinae, Faronitae)

    PubMed Central

    Park, Jong-Seok; Chandler, Donald S.

    2017-01-01

    Abstract A new genus and three new species of the southwestern Australian pselaphine beetles belonging to the supertribe Faronitae are described: Nornalup Park & Chandler, gen. n., based on Nornalup afoveatus Park & Chandler, sp. n., Nornalup quadratus Park & Chandler, sp. n., and Nornalup minusculus Park & Chandler, sp. n. Illustrations of their habitus and major diagnostic characters are provided, as well as distribution maps and a key to species. PMID:29134010

  6. Mitochondrial abundance and efficiency contribute to lean color of dark cutting beef

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Beef carcasses exhibiting four levels of dark cutting severity (DCS): Severe, Moderate, Mild, and Shady were compared to Control carcasses to investigate biochemical traits contributing to the dark cutting condition. Color attributes of Longissimus lumborum (LL) were measured after grading and duri...

  7. Adipogenic and energy metabolism gene networks in longissimus lumborum during rapid post-weaning growth in Angus and Angus × Simmental cattle fed high-starch or low-starch diets

    PubMed Central

    Graugnard, Daniel E; Piantoni, Paola; Bionaz, Massimo; Berger, Larry L; Faulkner, Dan B; Loor, Juan J

    2009-01-01

    Background Transcriptional networks coordinate adipocyte differentiation and energy metabolism in rodents. The level of fiber and starch in diets with adequate energy content fed to young cattle has the potential to alter intramuscular adipose tissue development in skeletal muscle. Post-weaning alterations in gene expression networks driving adipogenesis, lipid filling, and intracellular energy metabolism provide a means to evaluate long-term effects of nutrition on longissimus muscle development across cattle types. Results Longissimus lumborum (LL) from Angus (n = 6) and Angus × Simmental (A × S; n = 6) steer calves (155 ± 10 days age) fed isonitrogenous high-starch (HiS; 1.43 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) or low-starch (LoS; 1.19 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) diets was biopsied at 0, 56, and 112 days of feeding for transcript profiling of 31 genes associated with aspects of adipogenesis and energy metabolism. Intake of dietary energy (9.44 ± 0.57 Mcal/d) across groups during the study did not differ but feed efficiency (weight gain/feed intake) during the first 56 days was greater for steers fed HiS. Expression of PPARG increased ca. 2-fold by day 56 primarily due to HiS in A × S steers. Several potential PPARG-target genes (e.g., ACACA, FASN, FABP4, SCD) increased 2.5-to-25-fold by day 56 across all groups, with responses (e.g., FASN, FABP4) being less pronounced in A × S steers fed LoS. This latter group of steers had markedly greater blood plasma glucose (0.99 vs. 0.79 g/L) and insulin (2.95 vs. 1.17 μg/L) by day 112, all of which were suggestive of insulin resistance. Interactions were observed for FABP4, FASN, GPAM, SCD, and DGAT2, such that feeding A × S steers high-starch and Angus steers low-starch resulted in greater fold-changes by day 56 or 112 (GPAM). Marked up-regulation of INSIG1 (4-to-8-fold) occurred throughout the study across all groups. SREBF1 expression, however, was only greater on day 112 namely due to LoS in A × S steers. The

  8. Adipogenic and energy metabolism gene networks in longissimus lumborum during rapid post-weaning growth in Angus and Angus x Simmental cattle fed high-starch or low-starch diets.

    PubMed

    Graugnard, Daniel E; Piantoni, Paola; Bionaz, Massimo; Berger, Larry L; Faulkner, Dan B; Loor, Juan J

    2009-03-31

    Transcriptional networks coordinate adipocyte differentiation and energy metabolism in rodents. The level of fiber and starch in diets with adequate energy content fed to young cattle has the potential to alter intramuscular adipose tissue development in skeletal muscle. Post-weaning alterations in gene expression networks driving adipogenesis, lipid filling, and intracellular energy metabolism provide a means to evaluate long-term effects of nutrition on longissimus muscle development across cattle types. Longissimus lumborum (LL) from Angus (n = 6) and Angus x Simmental (A x S; n = 6) steer calves (155 +/- 10 days age) fed isonitrogenous high-starch (HiS; 1.43 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) or low-starch (LoS; 1.19 Mcal/kg diet dry matter; n = 6) diets was biopsied at 0, 56, and 112 days of feeding for transcript profiling of 31 genes associated with aspects of adipogenesis and energy metabolism. Intake of dietary energy (9.44 +/- 0.57 Mcal/d) across groups during the study did not differ but feed efficiency (weight gain/feed intake) during the first 56 days was greater for steers fed HiS. Expression of PPARG increased ca. 2-fold by day 56 primarily due to HiS in A x S steers. Several potential PPARG-target genes (e.g., ACACA, FASN, FABP4, SCD) increased 2.5-to-25-fold by day 56 across all groups, with responses (e.g., FASN, FABP4) being less pronounced in A x S steers fed LoS. This latter group of steers had markedly greater blood plasma glucose (0.99 vs. 0.79 g/L) and insulin (2.95 vs. 1.17 microg/L) by day 112, all of which were suggestive of insulin resistance. Interactions were observed for FABP4, FASN, GPAM, SCD, and DGAT2, such that feeding A x S steers high-starch and Angus steers low-starch resulted in greater fold-changes by day 56 or 112 (GPAM). Marked up-regulation of INSIG1 (4-to-8-fold) occurred throughout the study across all groups. SREBF1 expression, however, was only greater on day 112 namely due to LoS in A x S steers. The lipogenic

  9. Intramuscular fat in lamb muscle and the impact of selection for improved carcass lean meat yield.

    PubMed

    Anderson, F; Pannier, L; Pethick, D W; Gardner, G E

    2015-06-01

    Intramuscular fat percentage (IMF%) has been shown to have a positive influence on the eating quality of red meat. Selection of Australian lambs for increased lean tissue and reduced carcass fatness using Australian Sheep Breeding Values has been shown to decrease IMF% of the Muscularis longissimus lumborum. The impact this selection has on the IMF% of other muscle depots is unknown. This study examined IMF% in five different muscles from 400 lambs (M. longissimus lumborum, Muscularis semimembranosus, Muscularis semitendinosus, Muscularis supraspinatus, Muscularis infraspinatus). The sires of these lambs had a broad range in carcass breeding values for post-weaning weight, eye muscle depth and fat depth over the 12th rib (c-site fat depth). Results showed IMF% to be highest in the M. supraspinatus (4.87 ± 0.1, P<0.01) and lowest in the M. semimembranosus (3.58 ± 0.1, P<0.01). Hot carcass weight was positively associated with IMF% of all muscles. Selection for decreasing c-site fat depth reduced IMF% in the M. longissimus lumborum, M. semimembranosus and M. semitendinosus. Higher breeding values for post-weaning weight and eye muscle depth increased and decreased IMF%, respectively, but only in the lambs born as multiples and raised as singles. For each per cent increase in lean meat yield percentage (LMY%), there was a reduction in IMF% of 0.16 in all five muscles examined. Given the drive within the lamb industry to improve LMY%, our results indicate the importance of continued monitoring of IMF% throughout the different carcass regions, given its importance for eating quality.

  10. Measuring health-related quality of life in Hungarian children with heart disease: psychometric properties of the Hungarian version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the Cardiac Module.

    PubMed

    Berkes, Andrea; Pataki, István; Kiss, Mariann; Kemény, Csilla; Kardos, László; Varni, James W; Mogyorósy, Gábor

    2010-01-28

    The aim of the study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Hungarian version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core Scales and Cardiac Module. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and the PedsQL 3.0 Cardiac Module was administered to 254 caregivers of children (aged 2-18 years) and to 195 children (aged 5-18 years) at a pediatric cardiology outpatient unit. A postal survey on a demographically group-matched sample of the general population with 525 caregivers of children (aged 2-18 years) and 373 children (aged 5-18 years) was conducted with the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scale. Responses were described, compared over subgroups of subjects, and were used to assess practical utility, distributional coverage, construct validity, internal consistency, and inter-reporter agreement of the instrument. The moderate scale-level mean percentage of missing item responses (range 1.8-2.3%) supported the feasibility of the Generic Core Scales for general Hungarian children. Minimal to moderate ceiling effects and no floor effects were found on the Generic Core Scales. We observed stronger ceiling than floor effects in the Cardiac Module. Most of the scales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach's alpha estimates exceeding 0.70. Generally, moderate to good agreement was found between self- and parent proxy-reports in the patient and in the comparison group (intraclass correlation coefficient range 0.52-0.77), but remarkably low agreement in the perceived physical appearance subscale in the age group 5-7 years (0.18) and for the treatment II scale (problems on taking heart medicine) scale of the Cardiac Module in children aged 8-12 years (0.39). Assessing the construct validity of the questionnaires, statistically significant difference was found between the patient group and the comparison group only in the Physical Functioning Scale scores (p = 0.003) of the child self-report component, and in Physical (p = 0.022), Emotional, (p = 0

  11. Genomewide analysis indicates that queen larvae have lower methylation levels in the honey bee ( Apis mellifera)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shi, Yuan Yuan; Yan, Wei Yu; Huang, Zachary Y.; Wang, Zi Long; Wu, Xiao Bo; Zeng, Zhi Jiang

    2013-02-01

    The honey bee is a social insect characterized by caste differentiation, by which a young larva can develop into either a queen or a worker. Despite possessing the same genome, queen and workers display marked differences in reproductive capacity, physiology, and behavior. Recent studies have shown that DNA methylation plays important roles in caste differentiation. To further explore the roles of DNA methylation in this process, we analyzed DNA methylome profiles of both queen larvae (QL) and worker larvae (WL) of different ages (2, 4, and 6 day old), by using methylated DNA immunoprecipitation-sequencing (meDIP-seq) technique. The global DNA methylation levels varied between the larvae of two castes. DNA methylation increased from 2-day- to 4-day-old QL and then decreased in 6-day-old larvae. In WL, methylation levels increased with age. The methylcytosines in both larvae were enriched in introns, followed by coding sequence (CDS) regions, CpG islands, 2 kbp downstream and upstream of genes, and 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTRs). The number of differentially methylated genes (DMGs) in 2-, 4-, and 6-day-old QL and WL was 725, 3,013, and 5,049, respectively. Compared to 4- and 6-day-old WL, a large number of genes in QL were downmethylated, which were involved in many processes including development, reproduction, and metabolic regulation. In addition, some DMGs were concerned with caste differentiation.

  12. Effects of dance practice on functional mobility, motor symptoms and quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease: a systematic review with meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Dos Santos Delabary, Marcela; Komeroski, Isabel Giovannini; Monteiro, Elren Passos; Costa, Rochelle Rocha; Haas, Aline Nogueira

    2018-07-01

    Patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD) undergo motor injuries, which decrease their quality of life (QL). Dance, added to drug therapy, can help treating these patients AIMS: To conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis with the aim to analyze the effects of dance classes in comparison to other interventions or to the absence of intervention, in randomized clinical trials (RCTs), on functional mobility, motor symptoms and QL of PD patients METHODS: The search was conducted in MEDLINE, LILACS, SciELO, Cochrane and PsycINFO (last searched in August 2017). RCTs analyzing dance effects in comparison to other physical training types or to no intervention, on functional mobility, motor symptoms and QL of PD patients were selected. The outcomes assessed were motor symptoms with Unified PD Rating Scale III (UPDRSIII), functional mobility with Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), endurance with 6 min walking test (6MWT), freezing of gait with Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOG_Q), walking velocity with GAITRite and QL with PD Questionnaire (PDQ39). Two reviewers independently extracted methodological quality and studies data. Results are presented as weighted mean differences. Five RCTs were included, totaling 159 patients. Dance promoted significant improvements on UPDRSIII, and a decrease in TUG time when compared to other types of exercise. In comparison to the absence of intervention, dance practice also showed significant improvements in motor scores. Dance can improve motor parameters of the disease and patients' functional mobility.

  13. Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents With or at Risk for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

    PubMed Central

    Rhodes, Erinn T.; Goran, Michael I.; Lieu, Tracy A.; Lustig, Robert H.; Prosser, Lisa A.; Songer, Thomas J.; Weigensberg, Marc J.; Weinstock, Ruth S.; Gonzalez, Tessa; Rawluk, Kaitlin; Zoghbi, Roula M.; Ludwig, David S.; Laffel, Lori M.

    2015-01-01

    Objective We evaluated how adolescents with or at risk for type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and their parent/guardians (parents) perceive adolescents’ health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Study Design We interviewed overweight/obese, 12–18-year-old youth with T2DM, prediabetes, or insulin resistance (IR) and one parent from 5 US sites. Assessments included Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL), Health Utilities Index (HUI3), family conflict and diabetes burden. Results Among 108 adolescents, diagnoses included 40.7% T2DM, 25.0% prediabetes, and 34.3% IR. PedsQL summary score (SS) was higher among adolescents vs. parents (p=0.02). Parents rated physical functioning lower than adolescents (p<0.0001), but there were no differences in psychosocial health. Adolescent PedsQL SS did not differ by diagnosis but was inversely associated with adolescent BMI z-score (p=0.0004) and family conflict (p<0.0001) and associated with race/ethnicity (p<0.0001). Number of adolescent comorbidities (p=0.007) and burden of diabetes care (p<0.05) were inversely associated with parent PedsQL SS (p<0.05). There were no differences in HUI3. Conclusions Parents perceive their adolescents’ physical functioning as more impaired than adolescents themselves. Contextual factors including severity of obesity, race/ethnicity, family conflict and burden of diabetes care influence HRQOL. Family-based approaches to treatment and prevention of T2DM may benefit from increased attention to the biopsychosocial context. PMID:22217471

  14. Restriction in lateral bending range of motion, lumbar lordosis, and hamstring flexibility predicts the development of low back pain: a systematic review of prospective cohort studies.

    PubMed

    Sadler, Sean G; Spink, Martin J; Ho, Alan; De Jonge, Xanne Janse; Chuter, Vivienne H

    2017-05-05

    Low back pain (LBP) is an increasingly common condition worldwide with significant costs associated with its management. Identification of musculoskeletal risk factors that can be treated clinically before the development of LBP could reduce costs and improve the quality of life of individuals. Therefore the aim was to systematically review prospective cohort studies investigating lower back and / or lower limb musculoskeletal risk factors in the development of LBP. MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to February 2016. No age, gender or occupational restrictions of participants were applied. Articles had to be published in English and have a 12 month follow-up period. Musculoskeletal risk factors were defined as any osseous, ligamentous, or muscular structure that was quantifiably measured at baseline. Studies were excluded if participants were pregnant, diagnosed with cancer, or had previous low back surgery. Two authors independently reviewed and selected relevant articles. Methodological quality was evaluated independently by two reviewers using a generic tool for observational studies. Twelve articles which evaluated musculoskeletal risk factors for the development of low back pain in 5459 participants were included. Individual meta-analyses were conducted based on risk factors common between studies. Meta-analysis revealed that reduced lateral flexion range of motion (OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.24-0.73, p = 0.002), limited lumbar lordosis (OR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.55-0.98, p = 0.034), and restricted hamstring range of motion (OR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98, p = 0.001) were significantly associated with the development of low back pain. Meta-analyses on lumbar extension range of motion, quadriceps flexibility, fingertip to floor distance, lumbar flexion range of motion, back muscle strength, back muscle endurance, abdominal strength, erector spinae cross sectional area, and quadratus

  15. Consumer palatability scores and volatile beef flavor compounds of five USDA quality grades and four muscles.

    PubMed

    Legako, J F; Brooks, J C; O'Quinn, T G; Hagan, T D J; Polkinghorne, R; Farmer, L J; Miller, M F

    2015-02-01

    Proximate data, consumer palatability scores and volatile compounds were investigated for four beef muscles (Longissimus lumborum, Psoas major, Semimembranosus and Gluteus medius) and five USDA quality grades(Prime, Upper 2/3 Choice, Low Choice, Select, and Standard). Quality grade did not directly affect consumer scores or volatiles but interactions (P < 0.05) between muscle and grade were determined. Consumer scores and volatiles differed (P < 0.05) between muscles. Consumers scored Psoas major highest for tenderness, juiciness, flavor liking and overall liking, followed by Longissimus lumborum, Gluteus medius, and Semimembranosus (P < 0.05). Principal component analysis revealed clustering of compound classes, formed by related mechanisms. Volatile n-aldehydes were inversely related to percent fat. Increases in lipid oxidation compounds were associated with Gluteus medius and Semimembranosus, while greater quantities of sulfur-containing compounds were associated with Psoas major. Relationships between palatability scores and volatile compound classes suggest that differences in the pattern of volatile compounds may play a valuable role in explaining consumer liking.

  16. Efficient Numerical Diagonalization of Hermitian 3 × 3 Matrices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kopp, Joachim

    A very common problem in science is the numerical diagonalization of symmetric or hermitian 3 × 3 matrices. Since standard "black box" packages may be too inefficient if the number of matrices is large, we study several alternatives. We consider optimized implementations of the Jacobi, QL, and Cuppen algorithms and compare them with an alytical method relying on Cardano's formula for the eigenvalues and on vector cross products for the eigenvectors. Jacobi is the most accurate, but also the slowest method, while QL and Cuppen are good general purpose algorithms. The analytical algorithm outperforms the others by more than a factor of 2, but becomes inaccurate or may even fail completely if the matrix entries differ greatly in magnitude. This can mostly be circumvented by using a hybrid method, which falls back to QL if conditions are such that the analytical calculation might become too inaccurate. For all algorithms, we give an overview of the underlying mathematical ideas, and present detailed benchmark results. C and Fortran implementations of our code are available for download from .

  17. High speed machinability of the aerospace alloy AA7075 T6 under different cooling conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Imbrogno, Stano; Rinaldi, Sergio; Suarez, Asier Gurruchaga; Arrazola, Pedro J.; Umbrello, Domenico

    2018-05-01

    This paper describes the results of an experimental investigation aimed to st udy the machinability of AA7075 T6 (160 HV) for aerospace industry at high cutting speeds. The paper investigates the effects of different lubri-cooling strategies (cryogenic, M QL and dry) during high speed turning process on cutting forces, tool wear, chip morphology and cutting temperatures. The cutting speeds selected were 1000m/min, 1250m/min and 1500 m/min, while the feed rate values used were 0.1mm/rev and 0.3 mm/rev. The results of cryogenic and M QL application is compared with dry application. It was found that the cryogenic and M QL lubri-cooling techniques could represent a functional alternative to the common dry cutting application in order to implement a more effect ive high speed turning process. Higher cuttingparameters would be able to increase the productivity and reduce the production costs. The effects of the cutting parameters and on the variables object of study were investigated and the role of the different lubri-cooling conditions was assessed.

  18. Quasilinear models through the lens of resolvent analysis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McKeon, Beverley; Chini, Greg

    2017-11-01

    Quasilinear (QL) and generalized quasilinear (GQL) analyses, e.g. Marston et al., also variously described as statistical state dynamics models, e.g., Farrell et al., restricted nonlinear models, e.g. Thomas et al., or 2D/3C models, e.g. Gayme et al., have achieved considerable success in recovering the mean velocity profile for a range of turbulent flows. In QL approaches, the portion of the velocity field that can be represented as streamwise constant, i.e. with streamwise wavenumber kx = 0 , is fully resolved, while the streamwise-varying dynamics are linearized about the streamwise-constant field; that is, only those nonlinear interactions that drive the streamwise-constant field are retained, and the non-streamwise constant ``fluctuation-fluctuation'' interactions are ignored. Here, we show how these QL approaches can be reformulated in terms of the closed-loop resolvent analysis of McKeon & Sharma (2010), which enables us to identify reasons for their evident success as well as algorithms for their efficient computation. The support of ONR through Grant No. N00014-17-2307 is gratefully acknowledged.

  19. Emergence and equilibration of jets in planetary turbulence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Constantinou, Navid; Ioannou, Petros; Farrell, Brian

    2013-04-01

    Spatially and temporally coherent large scale jets that are not forced directly at the jet scale are prominent feature of rotating turbulence. A familiar example is the midlatitude jet in the Earth's atmosphere and the banded winds of the giants planets. These jets arise and are supported by the systematic organisation of the turbulent Reynolds stresses. Understanding the mechanism producing the required eddy momentum flux convergence, and how the jets and associated eddy field mutually adjust to maintain a steady jet structure at finite amplitude, constitute fundamental theoretical problems. Stochastic Structural Stability Theory (SSST) gives an explanation for jet formation that is fundamentally based on the interaction between jets and their associated field of turbulent eddies. SSST combines the full dynamics of the zonal mean flow with the second order statistics of the turbulent field obtained from a stochastic turbulence model (STM). The quasi-linear (QL) approximation to the full nonlinear dynamics (NL) results when the perturbation-perturbation interactions are parameterized in the perturbation equations, while interaction between the perturbations and the zonal mean flow is retained in the zonal mean equation. SSST consists of an infinite ensemble of perturbations evolving under QL. Therefore, SSST provides a set of dynamical equations for the mean flow and the second order statistics of the second cummulant of the perturbation vorticity field, which are autonomous and fluctuation free and can facilitate analytic study of turbulent equilibria and their stability as a function of parameters. Thus, jet formation in homogeneous beta-turbulence can be identified with an SSST structural instability of a homogeneous (mean flow free) SSTT equilibrium. We investigate the emergence and equilibration of jets from homogeneous barotropic beta-plane turbulence in the absence of coherent external forcing. SSST predicts that infinitesimal perturbations with zonal jet

  20. [Relationship between gender and age with quality of life in chronic hemodialysis patients].

    PubMed

    Santos, Paulo Roberto

    2006-01-01

    The stagnant mortality rate of the last decade and the increased prevalence of aged people among hemodialysis patients motivated the present study to determine the relation of gender and age with the quality of life (QL) of patients with chronic kidney failure treated with hemodialysis. From the sample of 107 individuals who underwent regular hemodialysis in a Dialysis Unit in the interior of the state of Ceará, Brazil, the Medical Outcomes Study Questionnaire 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess quality of life. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to calculate and to test the linear correlation between age and the score generated by the SF-36. The score for gender was compared by the t test and the Mann-Whitney when indicated. There was no difference between the score related to gender. There was no negative and linear correlation between age and the dimensions of QL named: Physical Functioning (r=-0.289, p=0.003), Physical Role (r=-0.224, p=0.020), Body Pain (r=0.252, p=0.008), General Health (r=-0.245, p<0.001), Vitality (r=-0.334, p<0.001) and Social Functioning (r=-0.270, p=0.005). There was no correlation between age and the dimensions: Role of Emotions (r=-0.149, p=0.125) and Mental Health (r=-0.158, p=0.103). Gender did not correlate with the level of QL among chronic hemodialysis patients, while there was a linear and negative correlation between age and the dimensions relating to the physical aspect of the QL.

  1. Numerical simulation of the geometrical-optics reduction of CE2 and comparisons to quasilinear dynamics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Parker, Jeffrey B.

    2018-05-01

    Zonal flows have been observed to appear spontaneously from turbulence in a number of physical settings. A complete theory for their behavior is still lacking. Recently, a number of studies have investigated the dynamics of zonal flows using quasilinear (QL) theories and the statistical framework of a second-order cumulant expansion (CE2). A geometrical-optics (GO) reduction of CE2, derived under an assumption of separation of scales between the fluctuations and the zonal flow, is studied here numerically. The reduced model, CE2-GO, has a similar phase-space mathematical structure to the traditional wave-kinetic equation, but that wave-kinetic equation has been shown to fail to preserve enstrophy conservation and to exhibit an ultraviolet catastrophe. CE2-GO, in contrast, preserves nonlinear conservation of both energy and enstrophy. We show here how to retain these conservation properties in a pseudospectral simulation of CE2-GO. We then present nonlinear simulations of CE2-GO and compare with direct simulations of quasilinear (QL) dynamics. We find that CE2-GO retains some similarities to QL. The partitioning of energy that resides in the zonal flow is in good quantitative agreement between CE2-GO and QL. On the other hand, the length scale of the zonal flow does not follow the same qualitative trend in the two models. Overall, these simulations indicate that CE2-GO provides a simpler and more tractable statistical paradigm than CE2, but CE2-GO is missing important physics.

  2. Health-related quality of life and cognitive functioning at on- and off-treatment periods in children aged between 6-13 years old with brain tumors: a prospective longitudinal study.

    PubMed

    An, Kyung Jin; Joung, Yoo Sook; Sung, Ki Woong; Kim, Ji-Hae

    2013-03-01

    Our study aimed to examine the relationship between intelligence and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children (6-13 years old) diagnosed as having a brain tumor. We administered a Korean version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-III, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, version 4.0 (PedsQL), the Korean version of the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form, and the Korean Version of the Parenting Sense of Competence (K-PSOC) scale before or after initial radiotherapy (T1) and after treatment termination (T2). In total, 13 patients completed both the T1 and T2 interviews. Scores significantly declined between T1 and T2 on the full-scale intelligence quotients (FIQ), verbal intelligence quotients (VIQ), performance intelligence quotients (PIQ), similarity and coding tests, as well as the K-PSOC, which measures parental anxiety. FIQ scores at T1 were correlated with the self-reported PedsQL total scores (r=0.739) and the parent proxy-report PedsQL scores for school functioning (r=0.706) at T2. Also, the FIQ scores at T2 were correlated with the self-reported PedsQL total scores (r=0.748) and scores for physical health (r=0.728) at T2. The cognitive ability and intelligence level of the patients significantly declined between on and off treatment periods, and higher intelligence functioning at both on and off treatment was correlated with long-term higher HRQOL. Further investigations that monitor intelligence, HRQOL and parenting stress over a longer period, using a greater number of participants, are needed.

  3. Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality Of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core scales among pediatric cancer patients.

    PubMed

    Yeung, Nelson C Y; Lau, Joseph T F; Yu, Xiao-nan; Chu, Yvonne; Shing, Matthew M K; Leung, Ting Fan; Li, Chi Kong; Fok, Tai Fai; Mak, Winnie W S

    2013-01-01

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales are commonly used to assess health-related quality of life of healthy children and pediatric patients. Validation of the Generic Core Scales among Chinese pediatric cancer patients has not been reported in the literature. The scales can serve to measure different quality-of-life domains that are not captured by the PedsQL Cancer Module. Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the PedsQL 4.0 among pediatric cancer patients and their caretakers were examined. The Generic Core Scales were administered to 335 pairs of pediatric cancer patients (aged 8-18 years) and their caretakers in Hong Kong. A 5-factor structure (physical, emotional, social, school-related cognitive function, and missed school) was identified in the patient and proxy versions of the scales using confirmatory factor analysis. Both versions of the total scale reported Cronbach α's of .90 or greater, with almost all subscales reporting α's of .70 or greater. Test-retest reliability at 2 weeks was acceptable (intraclass correlations ≥0.60) for a majority of subscales. Agreement between patients' and caretakers' ratings was medium. The scales demonstrated acceptable psychometric properties and construct validity. This study validated the Chinese version of the Generic Core Scales among pediatric cancer patients and their caretakers, which supports the future use of the scales in clinical settings. The Generic Core Scales can also be supplementary to the PedsQL Cancer Module for measuring multiple domains of quality of life in cancer population.

  4. Kin composition effects on reproductive competition among queenless honeybee workers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Inbar, Shani; Katzav-Gozansky, Tamar; Hefetz, Abraham

    2008-05-01

    Kin selection and inclusive fitness theories predict that, in hopeless queenless (QL) groups, competition or cooperation will occur over male production among workers of different patrilines. Competition is expected to involve mutual inhibition of reproduction and to affect fertility advertisement. To examine kin effect on these phenomena, we studied QL groups of honeybee workers comprising three types of kin structure: groups composed of pure single patrilines, groups composed of three mixed patrilines (all originating from colonies headed by single-drone-inseminated queens), and control groups composed of bees originating from naturally mated queens. Global assessment of ovarian development, irrespective of patriline composition, revealed no differences among group types. In contrast, the performance of specific patrilines revealed that, in the three-mixed-patriline groups, some patrilines were reproductively suppressed compared to their performance when reared as a pure single patriline, resulting in an uneven share of reproduction. Analysis of the fertility signal produced by Dufour’s gland revealed kin composition effects, which may reflect the bees’ competitive efforts. Although patriline effects on worker reproductive superiority have been shown in QL colonies, we were able to investigate specific patriline performance both in competitive and noncompetitive situations here for the first time. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that reproductive and pheromonal competitions in QL groups are affected by the number of subfamilies populating a colony and that these act as coalitions. The results also emphasize that within-colony heterogeneity, in the form of multiple patrilines, has far-reaching consequences on social evolution.

  5. Freezing and thawing or freezing, thawing, and aging effects on beef tenderness

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    The objective of this study was to determine the effect of freezing and thawing or freezing and thawing with an additional aging period after frozen storage on the tenderness of longissimus lumborum (LL) and semitendinosus (ST) steaks relative to aged, fresh steaks. Left-side LL and ST (n=35 each) ...

  6. Trifurcation of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel.

    PubMed

    Develi, Sedat

    2018-05-01

    The tibial nerve is the larger terminal branch of the sciatic nerve and it terminates in the tarsal tunnel by giving lateral and medial plantar nerves. We present a rare case of trifurcation of the tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. The variant nerve curves laterally after branching from the tibial nerve and courses deep to quadratus plantae muscle. Interestingly, posterior tibial artery was also terminating by giving three branches. These branches were accompanying the terminal branches of the tibial nerve.

  7. Love-to-Rayleigh Conversions and Seismic Anisotropy in Cascadia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rieger, Duayne Matthew

    discern a clipping anisotropic axis would help gain insight into the mantle dynamics of regions such as Cascadia. Lateral gradients of seismic anisotropy in Earth's upper mantle induce coupling among Earth's spheroidal and toroidal normal modes. This coupling can manifest as observable surface-wave polarization anomalies resulting from Love to Rayleigh wave conversions. These Love to Rayleigh conversions are known in the literature as Quasi-Love (QL) waves (Park and Yu, 1992) and are sensitive to both the strike and the dip of an anisotropic symmetry axis. In this dissertation I investigate the phenomenology of QL surface-wave scattering, including its sensitivity to the type and orientation of seismic anisotropy. I then apply my findings to observations of QL wave scattering in Cascada in order to further constrain subslab mantle anisotropy in the region. First, I make initial observations and confirm the presence of QL scattering in Cascada and the western U.S. using data recorded on USArray. I then move on to develop an algorithm to model efficiently QL wave scattering in the presence of 3-dimensional anisotropic structure. Using this forward-modeling algorithm, I investigate the dependence of QL wave scattering on the type and orientation of seismic Anisotropy. I find that P and S anisotropies exhibit independent effects on scattering. Scattering due to S anisotropy is stronger than that due to P anisotropy for all orientations and dominates in the observed scattering pattern. Both the phase and amplitude of the QL wave is dependent on the orientation (strike and dip) of the symmetry axis relative to the incident propagation azimuth of the source-receiver great-circle path. Due to this, the orientation of the anisotropic symmetry axis provides a distinct signature which is observable in the variation of QL wave scattering with wave-propagation azimuth. Finally, using data recorded on USArray, I observe the variation in QL wave scattering with propagation azimuth. I

  8. Isolation of Vibrio tapetis from two native fish species (Genypterus chilensis and Paralichthys adspersus) reared in Chile and description of Vibrio tapetis subsp. quintayensis subsp. nov.

    PubMed

    Levican, Arturo; Lasa, Aide; Irgang, Rute; Romalde, Jesús L; Poblete-Morales, Matías; Avendaño-Herrera, Ruben

    2017-04-01

    A group of seven Chilean isolates presumptively belonging to Vibrio tapetis was isolated from diseased fine flounders (Paralichthys adspersus) and red conger eel (Genypterus chilensis) experimentally reared in Quintay (Chile). All isolates were confirmed as members of V. tapetis on the basis of matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight MS, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, DNA-DNA hybridization values and G+C content. The ERIC-PCR and REP-PCR patterns were homogeneous among those isolates recovered from the same host (red conger or fine flounders), but distinct from the type strains V. tapetis subsp. tapetis CECT 4600T and V. tapetis subsp. britannicus CECT 8161T. On the basis of atpA, rpoA, rpoD, recA and pyrH gene sequence similarities (99.7-100 %) and clustering in the phylogenetic trees, the red conger isolates (Q20, Q047, Q48 and Q50) were confirmed as representing V. tapetis subsp. tapetis. However, they differed from V. tapetis subsp. tapetis CECT 4600T in their lipase, alpha quimiotripsin and non-acid phosphatase production. On the other hand, the fine flounder isolates (QL-9T, QL-35 and QL-41) showed rpoD, recA and pyrH gene sequence similarities ranging from 91.6 to 97.7 % with the type strains of the two V. tapetis subspecies (CECT 4600T and CECT 8161T) and consistently clustered together as an independent phylogenetic line within V. tapetis. Moreover, they could be differentiated phenotypically from strains CECT 4600T and CECT 8161T by nine and three different biochemical tests, respectively. In conclusion, the presence of V. tapetis in diseased red conger eel and fine flounder was demonstrated, extending the known host range and geographical location for this pathogen. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that the three isolates from fine flounder represent a novel subdivision within V. tapetis, for which the name V. tapetis subsp. quintayensis subsp. nov. is proposed and with QL-9T (=CECT 8851T=LMG 28759T) as the type strain. Although QL

  9. Effect of eye trauma on mental health and quality of life in children and adolescents.

    PubMed

    Karaman, Suleyman; Ozkan, Berna; Gok, Mustafa; Karakaya, Isık; Kara, Ozgur; Altintas, Ozgul; Altintas, Levent

    2017-06-01

    The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of eye traumas on mental health and quality of life of children, adolescents, and their parents. Medical records of 20 children and adolescents presented with blunt and open eye injuries between June 2009 and May 2014 were reviewed. Demographics of patients, timing and type of trauma, findings of initial examination, and medical and surgical interventions applied were recorded. To detect mental health, "Affect disorders and schizophrenia interview chart for school children, now and lifelong" (AFSIC-NL) and "Child Post-Traumatic Stress Reaction Index (CPTSD-RI)" were used. "Pediatric scale of quality of life" (PedsQL) was used to assess quality of life for both parents and children. According to AFSIC-NL, 9 patients were diagnosed with mental disorders including posttraumatic stress disorder (n = 3, 15 % patients), generalized anxiety disorder (n = 3, 15 % patients), and major depression (n = 3, 15 % patients). The PedsQL values of both children's and parents' were at their lowest in school and physical health domains for children and in physical health domain for parents. A reverse correlation was detected between the number of surgeries and PedsQL-child physical functionality, school functionality, psychosocial functionality, and total scale point. There was a statistically significant relationship between initial visual acuity or lens damage and PedsQL-parent emotional functionality scale. Regarding CPTSD-RI, the parents of these patients have a mild posttraumatic stress disorder. Eye injuries can lead development of psychopathology in children. Therefore, psychiatric support must be provided in follow-up period for these patients.

  10. The impact of disease duration on quality of life in children with nephrotic syndrome: a Midwest Pediatric Nephrology Consortium study.

    PubMed

    Selewski, David T; Troost, Jonathan P; Massengill, Susan F; Gbadegesin, Rasheed A; Greenbaum, Larry A; Shatat, Ibrahim F; Cai, Yi; Kapur, Gaurav; Hebert, Diane; Somers, Michael J; Trachtman, Howard; Pais, Priya; Seifert, Michael E; Goebel, Jens; Sethna, Christine B; Mahan, John D; Gross, Heather E; Herreshoff, Emily; Liu, Yang; Song, Peter X; Reeve, Bryce B; DeWalt, Darren A; Gipson, Debbie S

    2015-09-01

    The Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) II is a prospective study that evaluates patient reported outcomes in pediatric chronic diseases as a measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We have evaluated the influence of disease duration on HRQOL and, for the first time, compared the findings of the PROMIS measures to those of the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Scales (PedsQL) from the PROMIS II nephrotic syndrome (NS) longitudinal cohort. This was a prospective study in which 127 children (age range 8-17 years) with active NS from 14 centers were enrolled. Children with active NS defined as the presence of nephrotic range proteinuria (>2+ urinalysis and edema or urine protein/creatinine ratio >2 g/g) were eligible. Comparisons were made between children with prevalent (N = 67) and incident (N = 60) disease at the study enrollment visit. The PROMIS scores were worse in prevalent patients in the domains of peer relationship (p = 0.01) and pain interference (p < 0.01). The PedsQL showed worse scores in prevalent patients for social functioning (p < 0.01) and school functioning (p = 0.03). Multivariable analyses showed that prevalent patients had worse scores in PROMIS pain interference (p = 0.02) and PedsQL social functioning (p < 0.01). The PROMIS measures detected a significant impact of disease duration on HRQOL in children, such that peer relationships were worse and pain interfered with daily life to a greater degree among those with longer disease duration. These findings were in agreement with those for similar domains in the PedsQL legacy instrument.

  11. The impact of disease duration on quality of life in children with nephrotic syndrome: a Midwest Pediatric Nephrology Consortium study

    PubMed Central

    Troost, Jonathan P.; Massengill, Susan F.; Gbadegesin, Rasheed A.; Greenbaum, Larry A.; Shatat, Ibrahim F.; Cai, Yi; Kapur, Gaurav; Hebert, Diane; Somers, Michael J.; Trachtman, Howard; Pais, Priya; Seifert, Michael E.; Goebel, Jens; Sethna, Christine B.; Mahan, John D.; Gross, Heather E.; Herreshoff, Emily; Liu, Yang; Song, Peter X.; Reeve, Bryce B.; DeWalt, Darren A.; Gipson, Debbie S.

    2015-01-01

    Background The Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) II is a prospective study that evaluates patient reported outcomes in pediatric chronic diseases as a measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). We have evaluated the influence of disease duration on HRQOL and, for the first time, compared the findings of the PROMIS measures to those of the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Scales (PedsQL) from the PROMIS II nephrotic syndrome (NS) longitudinal cohort. Methods This was a prospective study in which 127 children (age range 8–17 years) with active NS from 14 centers were enrolled. Children with active NS defined as the presence of nephrotic range proteinuria (>2+ urinalysis and edema or urine protein/creatinine ratio >2 g/g) were eligible. Comparisons were made between children with prevalent (N=67) and incident (N=60) disease at the study enrollment visit. Results The PROMIS scores were worse in prevalent patients in the domains of peer relationship (p=0.01) and pain interference (p < 0.01). The PedsQL showed worse scores in prevalent patients for social functioning (p < 0.01) and school functioning (p = 0.03). Multivariable analyses showed that prevalent patients had worse scores in PROMIS pain interference (p=0.02) and PedsQL social functioning (p<0.01). Conclusion The PROMIS measures detected a significant impact of disease duration on HRQOL in children, such that peer relationships were worse and pain interfered with daily life to a greater degree among those with longer disease duration. These findings were in agreement with those for similar domains in the PedsQL legacy instrument. PMID:25784017

  12. Measuring visual outcomes in children with uveitis using the “Effects of Youngsters’ Eyesight on Quality of Life” questionnaire

    PubMed Central

    Angeles-Han, Sheila T.; Yeh, Steven; McCracken, Courtney; Jenkins, Kirsten; Stryker, Daneka; Myoung, Erica; Vogler, Larry; Rouster-Stevens, Kelly; Lambert, Scott R.; Harrison, Melanie J.; Prahalad, Sampath; Drews-Botsch, Carolyn

    2015-01-01

    Objective The Effects of Youngsters’ Eyesight on Quality of Life (EYE-Q) is a novel measure of vision-related quality of life (QOL) and function in children. We aim to determine the validity of EYE-Q in childhood uveitis. Methods We abstracted medical record data on arthritis and uveitis in a convenience sample of children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and/or uveitis. In addition to the EYE-Q, parents and patients completed questionnaires on overall QOL (Pediatric QOL Inventory - PedsQL), and physical functioning (Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire - CHAQ). Results Among 57 children (8 JIA, 24 JIA and uveitis, 25 uveitis alone), 102 ocular examinations were performed within 1 month of completing questionnaires. Uveitis patients had bilateral disease (69%), anterior involvement (78%), synechiae (51%) and cataracts (49%). Children with vision loss in their better eye (visual acuity (VA) 20/50 or worse) had worse EYE-Q (p = 0.006), and PedsQL (p = 0.028), but not CHAQ scores. The EYE-Q moderately correlated with logMAR VA (rs = −0.43), PedsQL (rs = 0.43) and CHAQ (rs = −0.45), but was not correlated with anterior chamber cells or intraocular pressure. The PedsQL and CHAQ did not correlate with VA or cells. There were strong correlations between the parent and child EYE-Q (rs = 0.62). Cronbach's α for the child report was 0.91. The EYE-Q had strong test-retest reliability (rs=0.75). Conclusion The EYE-Q may be an important tool in the assessment of visual outcomes in childhood uveitis and an improvement over general measures in detecting changes in vision-related function. PMID:26037544

  13. Factors associated with quality of life in elderly undertaking literacy programs

    PubMed Central

    dos Santos, Bruna Rodrigues; Pavarini, Sofia Cristina Iost; Brigola, Allan Gustavo; Orlandi, Fabiana de Souza; Inouye, Keika

    2014-01-01

    Increased life expectancy has led to a significant number of elderly enrolling on Youth and Adult Education programs (YAE). These individuals leave inactivity and negative aspects of aging in search of opportunities for social inclusion. Objective To evaluate the influence of sociodemographic factors and depressive and cognitive symptoms on quality of life (QL) of elderly attending the YAE of São Carlos city in São Paulo state. Methods A descriptive and quantitative study approved by the Research Ethics Committee of São Carlos Federal University was conducted. The sample comprised all elderly undertaking the YAE literacy program in 2012. The instruments used were the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), WHOQOL-bref and WHOQOL-old, and a sociodemographic instrument. Results We interviewed 23 elderly, predominantly females (91.3%) in the early stages of old age (69.6%). The number of years of YAE study showed no correlation with cognition scores obtained on the MMSE or with QL domains. However, scores on the GDS had a moderate inverse relationship with total scores for the Physical (p<0.01), Sensory Functioning (p<0.05), Independence (p<0.01), Past, Present and Future Activities (p<0.05), Social Participation (p<0.01), and Intimacy (p<0.05) QV domains, and a strong inversely proportional relationship with the Social Relationships QV domain (p<0.01). Scores attained on the MMSE showed a moderate and direct relationship with total scores on the Independence QL domain (p=0.001). Conclusion Elderly on literacy programs have average quality of life scores. Several QL domains are influenced by depression and cognitive symptoms. PMID:29213899

  14. Pain, Fatigue, and Psychological Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life in Childhood-Onset Lupus.

    PubMed

    Jones, Jordan T; Cunningham, Natoshia; Kashikar-Zuck, SusmitA; Brunner, Hermine I

    2016-01-01

    To evaluate pain, fatigue, and psychological functioning of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and examine how these factors impact health-related quality of life (HRQOL). At a tertiary rheumatology clinic, 60 childhood-onset SLE patients completed the following: a visual analog scale (VAS) of pain intensity (0-10), the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) multidimensional fatigue scale, Pain Coping Questionnaire, Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS), Children's Depression Inventory I (CDI-I), the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) questionnaire, and the PedsQL generic core (GC) scale and rheumatology module (RM). Sociodemographics and multiple disease activity indicators were recorded. Fatigue was present in 65% of the patients. Clinically relevant pain (pain-VAS >3), anxiety (SCARED ≥25), and depressive symptoms (CDI-I >12) were observed in 40%, 37%, and 30% of the patients, respectively; 22% had high catastrophizing (PCS ≥26). On average, the PedsQL-GC and -RM scores for childhood-onset SLE were lower than in healthy norms. Reduced PedsQL-GC and -RM scores were highly correlated with greater levels of fatigue, anxiety, and depressive symptoms (Pearson's r > 0.65), but had weak correlation with disease activity (Pearson's r < 0.25). Regression analysis demonstrated HRQOL was most impacted by fatigue, pain, and anxiety when evaluating all factors concurrently (P < 0.001). Childhood-onset SLE is associated with decreased HRQOL, and psychological aspects of health contribute substantially to low HRQOL, whereas measures of childhood-onset SLE activity seem less relevant. Fatigue, pain, mood, and anxiety symptoms are present in a large subgroup of patients and need medical attention to achieve optimal health outcomes. © 2016, American College of Rheumatology.

  15. Unhealthy lifestyle habits and diabetes-specific health-related quality of life in youths with type 1 diabetes.

    PubMed

    Mozzillo, Enza; Zito, Eugenio; Maffeis, Claudio; De Nitto, Elena; Maltoni, Giulio; Marigliano, Marco; Zucchini, Stefano; Franzese, Adriana; Valerio, Giuliana

    2017-12-01

    Management of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) influences several aspects of life, such as adherence to healthy lifestyle habits and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Our aim was to evaluate the association between unhealthy lifestyle habits and HRQoL in adolescents and young adults with T1DM. Two hundred and forty-two Caucasian patients (13-19 years) consecutively enrolled over a 12-month period in three Regional Pediatric Diabetes Centers in Italy. Demographics, clinical, and laboratory parameters, adherence to lifestyle habits (Mediterranean Diet assessed by KIDMED, Physical Activity levels and sedentary behavior by questionnaire) considered either separately or in cluster, and HRQoL by Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Diabetes Module (PedsQL 3.0 DM) were collected. Metabolic control was determined by HbA1c mean of previous year. Only 15 (6.2%) patients fulfilled the cluster of three healthy lifestyle habits without gender differences (p = 0.353); 62 (25.6%) had 1 unhealthy lifestyle habit, and 165 (68.2%) had ≥2. Adolescents meeting physical activity recommendations had better PedsQL scores than those who did not meet. PedsQL total score and specific sub-scales decreased in patients with unhealthy lifestyle habits. High PedsQL was significantly associated with being male, living in South Italy, having lower HbA1c mean levels, and reporting lower adherence to unhealthy lifestyle habits. The clustering of unhealthy lifestyle habits is associated with reduced HRQoL in adolescents and young adults with T1DM. Promoting multiple behavior changes may be a useful approach to improve the health status and the HRQoL in youths with T1DM.

  16. Sorbent Scoping Studies

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

    Chancellor, Christopher John

    2016-11-14

    The Los Alamos National Laboratory–Carlsbad Operations (LANL-CO) office was tasked by the DOE CBFO, Office of the Manager to perform a review of the acceptable knowledge (AK) to identify the oxidizers and sorbents in transuranic (TRU) waste streams, to conduct scoping studies on the oxidizers and sorbents identified in AK review to inform the Quality Level 1 (QL1) testing, and to conduct a series of QL1 tests to provide the scientific data to support a basis of knowledge document for determining the criteria for (1) accepting waste at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) without treatment, (2) determining waste thatmore » will require treatment, and (3) if treatment is required, how the treatment must be performed. The purpose of this report is to present the results of the AK review of sorbents present in active waste streams, provide a technical analysis of the sorbent list, report the results of the scoping studies for the fastest-burning organic sorbent, and provide the list of organic and inorganic sorbents to be used in the development of a Test Plan for Preparation and Testing of Sorbents Mixed with Oxidizer found in Transuranic Waste (DWT-TP-001). The companion report, DWT-RPT-001, Oxidizer Scoping Studies, has similar information for oxidizers identified during the AK review of TRU waste streams. The results of the oxidizer and sorbent scoping studies will be used to inform the QL1 test plan. The QL1 test results will support the development of a basis of knowledge document that will evaluate oxidizing chemicals and sorbents in TRU waste and provide guidance for treatment.« less

  17. Transmembrane proteins UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and MIG-21 control anterior-posterior neuroblast migration with left-right functional asymmetry in Caenorhabditis elegans.

    PubMed

    Sundararajan, Lakshmi; Lundquist, Erik A

    2012-12-01

    Migration of neurons and neural crest cells is of central importance to the development of nervous systems. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the QL neuroblast on the left migrates posteriorly, and QR on the right migrates anteriorly, despite similar lineages and birth positions with regard to the left-right axis. Initial migration is independent of a Wnt signal that controls later anterior-posterior Q descendant migration. Previous studies showed that the transmembrane proteins UNC-40/DCC and MIG-21, a novel thrombospondin type I repeat containing protein, act redundantly in left-side QL posterior migration. Here we show that the LAR receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP-3 acts with MIG-21 in parallel to UNC-40 in QL posterior migration. We also show that in right-side QR, the UNC-40 and PTP-3/MIG-21 pathways mutually inhibit each other's role in posterior migration, allowing anterior QR migration. Finally, we present evidence that these proteins act autonomously in the Q neuroblasts. These studies indicate an inherent left-right asymmetry in the Q neuroblasts with regard to UNC-40, PTP-3, and MIG-21 function that results in posterior vs. anterior migration.

  18. Transmembrane Proteins UNC-40/DCC, PTP-3/LAR, and MIG-21 Control Anterior–Posterior Neuroblast Migration with Left–Right Functional Asymmetry in Caenorhabditis elegans

    PubMed Central

    Sundararajan, Lakshmi; Lundquist, Erik A.

    2012-01-01

    Migration of neurons and neural crest cells is of central importance to the development of nervous systems. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the QL neuroblast on the left migrates posteriorly, and QR on the right migrates anteriorly, despite similar lineages and birth positions with regard to the left–right axis. Initial migration is independent of a Wnt signal that controls later anterior–posterior Q descendant migration. Previous studies showed that the transmembrane proteins UNC-40/DCC and MIG-21, a novel thrombospondin type I repeat containing protein, act redundantly in left-side QL posterior migration. Here we show that the LAR receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase PTP-3 acts with MIG-21 in parallel to UNC-40 in QL posterior migration. We also show that in right-side QR, the UNC-40 and PTP-3/MIG-21 pathways mutually inhibit each other’s role in posterior migration, allowing anterior QR migration. Finally, we present evidence that these proteins act autonomously in the Q neuroblasts. These studies indicate an inherent left–right asymmetry in the Q neuroblasts with regard to UNC-40, PTP-3, and MIG-21 function that results in posterior vs. anterior migration. PMID:23051647

  19. Neuronal cell migration in C. elegans: regulation of Hox gene expression and cell position.

    PubMed

    Harris, J; Honigberg, L; Robinson, N; Kenyon, C

    1996-10-01

    In C. elegans, the Hox gene mab-5, which specifies the fates of cells in the posterior body region, has been shown to direct the migrations of certain cells within its domain of function. mab-5 expression switches on in the neuroblast QL as it migrates into the posterior body region. mab-5 activity is then required for the descendants of QL to migrate to posterior rather than anterior positions. What information activates Hox gene expression during this cell migration? How are these cells subsequently guided to their final positions? We address these questions by describing four genes, egl-20, mig-14, mig-1 and lin-17, that are required to activate expression of mab-5 during migration of the QL neuroblast. We find that two of these genes, egl-20 and mig-14, also act in a mab-5-independent way to determine the final stopping points of the migrating Q descendants. The Q descendants do not migrate toward any obvious physical targets in wild-type or mutant animals. Therefore, these genes appear to be part of a system that positions the migrating Q descendants along the anteroposterior axis.

  20. Development and psychometric evaluation of a Catalan self- and interviewer-administered version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 4.0.

    PubMed

    Huguet, Anna; Miró, Jordi

    2008-01-01

    The purposes of this study were to develop and to assess the psychometric properties of a Catalan self- and interviewer-administered version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) with a sample of schoolchildren, and to examine the equivalence between both versions. 511 schoolchildren aged between 9 and 17 years old participated in the study. In addition to completing a Catalan self-administered version of the PedsQL, each child was interviewed individually. Confirmatory factor analysis did not support the original Varni's proposal. Instead, a short 12-item version was derived. The higher-order scales for both versions were internally consistent. Moreover, relationships between ratings of children's quality of life were generally significant; both versions were also found to be related with another measure of quality of life supporting their validity. A new administration form for the PedsQL is presented in this study. The psychometric properties of both self- and interviewer-administered short 12-item versions are reassuring albeit with a few areas of improvement. Further studies are needed to investigate whether self- and interviewer-administered versions can really be considered to be comparable.

  1. Relationships among range of motion, functional mobility, and quality of life in children and adolescents after limb-sparing surgery for lower-extremity sarcoma.

    PubMed

    Marchese, Victoria G; Spearing, Elena; Callaway, Lulie; Rai, Shesh N; Zhang, Lijun; Hinds, Pamela S; Carlson, Claire A; Neel, Michael D; Rao, Bhaskar N; Ginsberg, Jill

    2006-01-01

    The study was designed to examine relationships between range of motion (ROM), functional mobility, and quality of life (QL) in patients with lower-extremity sarcoma (LES) after limb-sparing surgery Sixty-eight patients with LES (age, 10-26 years) participated. The patients performed hip flexion, hip extension, knee flexion, and knee extension, Timed Up and Down Stairs (TUDS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), nine-minute run-walk (9-min), and completed the QL measure, Short-Form-36 version two (SF-36v2). Significant correlations (p < 0.01) were found between hip extension and SF-36v2 physical component scale (PCS; r = 0.33), TUDS (r = -0.32), TUG (r = -0.33); hip flexion and TUDS (r = -0.31), TUG (r = -0.39), 9-min (r = 0.44); knee flexion and TUDS (r = -0.52), TUG (r = -0.40), 9-min (r = 0.37); SF-36v2 PCS and TUDS (r = -0.56), TUG (r = -0.51), 9-min (r = 0.60). ROM correlates with functional mobility and QL in patients with LES after limb-sparing surgery. ROM exercises are important component of a physical therapy program for children and adolescents with LES.

  2. Sex differences in quadrupedal walking gaits of Uner Tan syndrome cases, healthy humans and nonhuman primates.

    PubMed

    Tan, Uner

    2017-03-01

    Uner Tan syndrome (UTS) cases with habitual quadrupedal locomotion (QL), impaired intelligence, and dysarthric or no speech predominantly use lateral sequence (LS) gait like nonprimates rather than the predominantly diagonal sequence (DS) gait of nonhuman primates. However, these studies neglected possible sex-related differences in these gait types. (1) To assess the possible sex-related gait types in UTS cases, healthy infants and adults with requested QL, and the nonhuman primates. (2) To test the hypothesis that sex differences may exist in quadrupedal walking gaits in UTS cases, healthy humans, and nonhuman primates. The UTS cases were filmed, the other study groups were taken from public open 'youtube' videos, which were used to assess the walking gait types as DS and LS. The right and left hind-limb phase values were calculated separately for males and females to allow a possible sex difference in walking gaits to be determined. Females predominantly used DS gait, contrary to males with predominantly LS gait. Consistent with the working hypothesis, the results suggested a biological sex-related trend in preferred walking gaits exists in all of the human and nonhuman primates using QL.

  3. Ion radial diffusion in an electrostatic impulse model for stormtime ring current formation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Chen, Margaret W.; Schulz, Michael; Lyons, Larry R.; Gorney, David J.

    1992-01-01

    Guiding-center simulations of stormtime transport of ring-current and radiation-belt ions having first adiabatic invariants mu is approximately greater than 15 MeV/G (E is approximately greater than 165 keV at L is approximately 3) are surprisingly well described (typically within a factor of approximately less than 4) by the quasilinear theory of radial diffusion. This holds even for the case of an individual model storm characterized by substorm-associated impulses in the convection electric field, provided that the actual spectrum of the electric field is incorporated in the quasilinear theory. Correction of the quasilinear diffusion coefficient D(sub LL)(sup ql) for drift-resonance broadening (so as to define D(sub LL)(sup ql)) reduced the typical discrepancy with the diffusion coefficients D(sub LL)(sup sim) deduced from guiding-center simulations of representative-particle trajectories to a factor of approximately 3. The typical discrepancy was reduced to a factor of approximately 1.4 by averaging D(sub LL)(sup sim), D(sub LL)(sup ql), and D(sub LL)(sup rb) over an ensemble of model storms characterized by different (but statistically equivalent) sets of substorm-onset times.

  4. Shelf life of fresh meat products under LED or fluorescent lighting.

    PubMed

    Steele, K S; Weber, M J; Boyle, E A E; Hunt, M C; Lobaton-Sulabo, A S; Cundith, C; Hiebert, Y H; Abrolat, K A; Attey, J M; Clark, S D; Johnson, D E; Roenbaugh, T L

    2016-07-01

    Enhanced pork loin chops, beef longissimus lumborum steaks, semimembranosus steaks (superficial and deep portions), ground beef, and ground turkey were displayed under light emitting diode (LED) and fluorescent (FLS) lighting in two multi-shelf, retail display cases with identical operating parameters. Visual and instrumental color, internal product temperature, case temperature, case cycling, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and Enterobacteriaceae and aerobic plate counts were evaluated. Under LED, beef products (except the deep portion of beef semimembranosus steaks) showed less (P<0.05) visual discoloration. Pork loin chops had higher (P<0.05) L* values for LED lighting. Other than beef longissimus lumborum steaks, products displayed under LED lights had colder internal temperatures than products under FLS lights (P<0.05). Under LED, pork loin chops, ground turkey, and beef semimembranosus steaks had higher (P<0.05) values for TBARS. LED provides colder case and product temperatures, more case efficiency, and extended color life by at least 0.5d for longissimus and semimembranosus steaks; however, some LED cuts showed increased lipid oxidation. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

  5. Health-related quality of life of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder versus children with diabetes and healthy controls.

    PubMed

    Coghill, David; Hodgkins, Paul

    2016-03-01

    The impact of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is reported to be similar to that of other mental health and physical disorders. In this cross-sectional study, we hypothesized that children with ADHD and children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) would have significantly worse HRQoL compared with healthy children, and that better clinical status in ADHD and T1DM would be associated with better HRQoL. Children were recruited from three outpatient services in Scotland. Responses to two frequently used validated HRQoL instruments, the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) and Child Health and Illness Profile-child edition (CHIP-CE), were obtained from parents/carers and children (6-16 years) with/without ADHD or T1DM. Child and parent/carer-completed HRQoL measurements were evaluated for 213 children with ADHD, 58 children with T1DM and 117 healthy children (control group). Significantly lower self and parent/carer ratings were observed across most PedsQL (P < 0.001) and CHIP-CE (P < 0.05) domains (indicating reduced HRQoL) for the ADHD group compared with the T1DM and control groups. Parent/carer and child ratings were significantly correlated for both measures of HRQoL (PedsQL total score: P < 0.001; CHIP-CE all domains: P < 0.001), but only with low-to-moderate strength. Correlation between ADHD severity and HRQoL was significant with both PedsQL and CHIP-CE for all parent/carer (P < 0.01) and most child (P < 0.05) ratings; more ADHD symptoms were associated with poorer HRQoL. These data demonstrate that ADHD has a significant impact on HRQoL (as observed in both parent/carer and child ratings), which seems to be greater than that for children with T1DM.

  6. Comparison of the mean quality factors for astronauts calculated using the Q-functions proposed by ICRP, ICRU, and NASA

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sato, T.; Endo, A.; Niita, K.

    2013-07-01

    For the estimation of the radiation risk for astronauts, not only the organ absorbed doses but also their mean quality factors must be evaluated. Three functions have been proposed by different organizations for expressing the radiation quality, including the Q(L), Q(y), and QNASA(Z, E) relationships as defined in International Committee of Radiological Protection (ICRP) Publication 60, International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) Report 40, and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) TP-2011-216155, respectively. The Q(L) relationship is the most simple and widely used for space dosimetry, but the use of the latter two functions enables consideration of the difference in the track structure of various charged particles during the risk estimation. Therefore, we calculated the mean quality factors in organs and tissues in ICRP/ICRU reference voxel phantoms for the isotropic exposure to various mono-energetic particles using the three Q-functions. The Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System PHITS was employed to simulate the particle motions inside the phantoms. The effective dose equivalents and the phantom-averaged effective quality factors for the astronauts were then estimated from the calculated mean quality factors multiplied by the fluence-to-dose conversion coefficients and cosmic-ray fluxes inside a spacecraft. It was found from the calculations that QNASA generally gives the largest values for the phantom-averaged effective quality factors among the three Q-functions for neutron, proton, and lighter-ion irradiation, whereas Q(L) provides the largest values for heavier-ion irradiation. Overall, the introduction of QNASA instead of Q(L) or Q(y) in astronaut dosimetry results in the increase the effective dose equivalents because the majority of the doses are composed of the contributions from protons and neutrons, although this tendency may change by the calculation conditions.

  7. Demonstration of a Data Distribution System for ALMA Data Cubes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eguchi, S.; Kawasaki, W.; Shirasaki, Y.; Komiya, Y.; Kosugi, G.; Ohishi, M.; Mizumoto, Y.; Kobayashi, T.

    2014-05-01

    The Atacama Large Millimeter / submillimeter Array (ALMA) is the world's largest radio telescope in Chile. As a part of Japanese Virtual Observatory (JVO) system, we have been constructing a prototype of data service to distribute ALMA data, which are three or four dimensional cubes and expected to exceed 2 TB in total size, corresponding to 75 days at world-averaged Internet bandwidth of 2.6 Mbps, in the next three years. To utilize the limited bandwidth, our system adopts a higher dimensional version of so-called "deep zoom": the system generates and stores lower resolution FITS data cubes with various binning parameters in directions of both space and frequency. Users of our portal site can easily visualize and cut out those data cubes by using ALMAWebQL, which is a web application built on customized GWT. Once the FITS files are downloaded via ALMAWebQL, one can visualize them in more detail using Vissage, a Java-based FITS cube browser. We exhibited our web and desktop viewer “fresh from the oven” at the last ADASS conference (Shirasaki et al. 2013). Improvement of their performance and functionality after that made the system nearly to a practical level. The performance problem of ALMAWebQL reported last year (Eguchi et al. 2013) was overcome by optimizing the network topology and applying the just-in-time endian conversion algorithm; the latest ALMAWebQL can follow up any user actions almost in real time for files smaller than 5 GB. It also enables users to define either a sub-region or sub-frequency range and move it freely on the graphical user interface, providing more detailed information of the FITS file. In addition, the latest Vissage now supports data from other telescopes including HST, Subaru, Chandra, etc. and overlaying two images. In this paper, we introduce the latest version of our VO system.

  8. Effects of ethanol on cocaine self-administration in monkeys responding under a second-order schedule of reinforcement.

    PubMed

    John, William S; Nader, Michael A

    2017-01-01

    Concurrent alcohol use among cocaine abusers is common but the behavioral variables that promote co-abuse are not well understood. The present study examined the effects of intragastric (i.g.) ethanol (EtOH) administration in monkeys responding under a schedule of cocaine reinforcement in which extensive drug seeking was maintained by conditioned stimuli. Four adult male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were trained to respond under a second-order fixed-interval (FI) 600s (fixed-ratio (FR) 30:S) schedule of cocaine (0.003-0.56mg/kg/injection) presentation. Sessions ended after 5 injections or 90min had elapsed. Different EtOH doses (0.5-2.0g/kg, i.g.) were administered 30min before the session, typically on Tuesdays and Fridays. Blood ethanol concentrations (BECs) were also assessed. Pattern of FI responding was assessed by determining quarter-life (QL) values. Cocaine self-administration was characterized as an inverted U-shaped function of dose; QL values increased monotonically with dose. EtOH pretreatments dose-dependently decreased self-administration at several cocaine doses in 3 of 4 monkeys. In one animal, EtOH increased low-dose cocaine-maintained responding. For all monkeys, QL values were increased by EtOH when low- and high-cocaine doses were self-administered, suggesting additive effects of EtOH and cocaine. Furthermore, BECs were not altered following cocaine self-administration. The reductions in cocaine self-administration and the increases in QL values following EtOH, suggest that EtOH was enhancing cocaine-related conditioned reinforcement. A better understanding of the behavioral mechanisms that mediate the co-abuse of alcohol and cocaine will lead to improved treatments for both drugs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Nonautonomous Roles of MAB-5/Hox and the Secreted Basement Membrane Molecule SPON-1/F-Spondin in Caenorhabditis elegans Neuronal Migration.

    PubMed

    Josephson, Matthew P; Miltner, Adam M; Lundquist, Erik A

    2016-08-01

    Nervous system development and circuit formation requires neurons to migrate from their birthplaces to specific destinations.Migrating neurons detect extracellular cues that provide guidance information. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the Q right (QR) and Q left (QL) neuroblast descendants migrate long distances in opposite directions. The Hox gene lin-39 cell autonomously promotes anterior QR descendant migration, and mab-5/Hox cell autonomously promotes posterior QL descendant migration. Here we describe a nonautonomous role of mab-5 in regulating both QR and QL descendant migrations, a role masked by redundancy with lin-39 A third Hox gene, egl-5/Abdominal-B, also likely nonautonomously regulates Q descendant migrations. In the lin-39 mab-5 egl-5 triple mutant, little if any QR and QL descendant migration occurs. In addition to well-described roles of lin-39 and mab-5 in the Q descendants, our results suggest that lin-39, mab-5, and egl-5 might also pattern the posterior region of the animal for Q descendant migration. Previous studies showed that the spon-1 gene might be a target of MAB-5 in Q descendant migration. spon-1 encodes a secreted basement membrane molecule similar to vertebrate F-spondin. Here we show that spon-1 acts nonautonomously to control Q descendant migration, and might function as a permissive rather than instructive signal for cell migration. We find that increased levels of MAB-5 in body wall muscle (BWM) can drive the spon-1 promoter adjacent to the Q cells, and loss of spon-1 suppresses mab-5 gain of function. Thus, MAB-5 might nonautonomously control Q descendant migrations by patterning the posterior region of the animal to which Q cells respond. spon-1 expression from BWMs might be part of the posterior patterning necessary for directed Q descendant migration. Copyright © 2016 by the Genetics Society of America.

  10. Nonautonomous Roles of MAB-5/Hox and the Secreted Basement Membrane Molecule SPON-1/F-Spondin in Caenorhabditis elegans Neuronal Migration

    PubMed Central

    Josephson, Matthew P.; Miltner, Adam M.; Lundquist, Erik A.

    2016-01-01

    Nervous system development and circuit formation requires neurons to migrate from their birthplaces to specific destinations.Migrating neurons detect extracellular cues that provide guidance information. In Caenorhabditis elegans, the Q right (QR) and Q left (QL) neuroblast descendants migrate long distances in opposite directions. The Hox gene lin-39 cell autonomously promotes anterior QR descendant migration, and mab-5/Hox cell autonomously promotes posterior QL descendant migration. Here we describe a nonautonomous role of mab-5 in regulating both QR and QL descendant migrations, a role masked by redundancy with lin-39. A third Hox gene, egl-5/Abdominal-B, also likely nonautonomously regulates Q descendant migrations. In the lin-39mab-5egl-5 triple mutant, little if any QR and QL descendant migration occurs. In addition to well-described roles of lin-39 and mab-5 in the Q descendants, our results suggest that lin-39, mab-5, and egl-5 might also pattern the posterior region of the animal for Q descendant migration. Previous studies showed that the spon-1 gene might be a target of MAB-5 in Q descendant migration. spon-1 encodes a secreted basement membrane molecule similar to vertebrate F-spondin. Here we show that spon-1 acts nonautonomously to control Q descendant migration, and might function as a permissive rather than instructive signal for cell migration. We find that increased levels of MAB-5 in body wall muscle (BWM) can drive the spon-1 promoter adjacent to the Q cells, and loss of spon-1 suppresses mab-5 gain of function. Thus, MAB-5 might nonautonomously control Q descendant migrations by patterning the posterior region of the animal to which Q cells respond. spon-1 expression from BWMs might be part of the posterior patterning necessary for directed Q descendant migration. PMID:27225683

  11. Modification and Evaluation of a Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Quality of Life Instrument

    PubMed Central

    Skirko, Jonathan R.; Weaver, Edward M; Perkins, Jonathan; Kinter, Sara; Sie, Kathleen C.Y.

    2018-01-01

    Objective Modify the existing 45-item velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) quality of life (QOL) instrument (VPIQL), assess the modified instrument for reliability and provide further validation. There are patient and parent versions of the instrument. Design Validation convenience sample from a previously conducted pilot study. Setting Two academic tertiary referral medical centers. Participants De-identified data were used from 29 subjects with VPI and 29 control subjects age 5–17 years, and parents. Outcome measures Subjects and parents completed VPIQL and a generic pediatric QOL instrument (PedsQL4-0). Data Analysis Twenty-two items were removed from the VPIQL for ceiling effects, floor effects, and redundancy, to produce the modified instrument, VPI Effects on Life Outcomes (VELO) instrument. VELO was tested for internal consistency (Chronbach’s alpha), discriminant validity (paired t-test with control subjects), and concurrent validity (Pearson correlation with the PedsQL4-0). These analyses were also completed for parents. Results The 45-item VPIQL instrument was reduced to the 23-item VELO instrument. The VELO had excellent internal consistency (Chronbach’s alpha 0.96 for parents and 0.95 for VPI subjects). The VELO discriminated well between VPI and control subjects, with mean score (SD) was significantly lower (worse) for VPI subjects (67.6 [23.9]) than for control subjects (97.0 [5.2]) (p<0.0001). The VELO total score was significantly correlated with the PedsQL4.0 (r=0.73) among subjects with VPI. Similar results were seen in parent responses. Conclusions The VELO is a 23-item QOL instrument that was designed to measure and follow QOL in subjects with VPI, with less burden than the original VPIQL. VELO demonstrates internal consistency, disciminant validty, and concurrent validity with the PedsQL4-0. PMID:23069823

  12. [Impact of the positive appraisal of care on quality of life, purpose in life, and will to continue care among Japanese family caregivers of older adults: analysis by kinship type].

    PubMed

    Yamamoto-Mitani, Noriko; Ishigaki, Kazuko; Kuniyoshi, Midori; Kawahara-Maekawa, Noriko; Hasegawa, Kiyomi; Hayashi, Kunihiko; Sugishita, Chieko

    2002-07-01

    The impact of positive appraisal of care (PAC) on the caregiver's quality of life (QL), sense of purpose in life (sense of ikigai) and will to continue care was examined. Data were collected from 322 Japanese family caregivers of older adults who were using visiting nursing services through 21 facilities in the Tokyo metropolitan area, and the prefectures of Shizuoka, Mie and Okinawa. The data were grouped by kinship type (husband or son, wife, daughter or daughter-in-law) and analyzed separately. From the multiple regression and logistic regression analyses, the following results were derived: 1) The PAC was not related to the physical QL regardless of the relationship type; 2) The relationship depended upon the relationship type: only the PAC was related to the mental QL among husband and son caregivers, both the PAC and the negative appraisal of care (NAC) were important among wives, only the NAC among daughters, and none of them among daughters-in-law; 3) Both the PAC and NAC were related to the sense of ikigai in all caregiver types except among husband and son caregivers, which showed no relationship between the NAC and sense of ikigai; 4) Both the PAC and NAC were related to will to continue care among son and husband caregivers, whereas only the PAC was among wives and daughters-in-law. Only the NAC was related among daughters. However, the difference across kinship type seems minimal for will to continue care. Understanding the PAC among family caregivers may be important in order to better assist them to improve their mental QL or sense of ikigai as well as to predict their continuation of caregiving at home. The impact of PAC varies depending on the kinship type, and it should be assessed separately with reference to this pariable to develop plans for appropriate assistance.

  13. A Low Frequency of Losses in 11q Chromosome Is Associated with Better Outcome and Lower Rate of Genomic Mutations in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

    PubMed Central

    Rodríguez-Vicente, Ana Eugenia; Grossmann, Vera; Collado, Rosa; Heras, Cecilia; Puiggros, Anna; Martín, Ana África; Puig, Noemí; Benito, Rocío; Robledo, Cristina; Delgado, Julio; González, Teresa; Queizán, José Antonio; Galende, Josefina; de la Fuente, Ignacio; Martín-Núñez, Guillermo; Alonso, José María; Abrisqueta, Pau; Luño, Elisa; Marugán, Isabel; González-Gascón, Isabel; Bosch, Francesc; Kohlmann, Alexander; González, Marcos; Espinet, Blanca; Hernández-Rivas, Jesús María

    2015-01-01

    To analyze the impact of the 11q deleted (11q-) cells in CLL patients on the time to first therapy (TFT) and overall survival (OS), 2,493 patients with CLL were studied. 242 patients (9.7%) had 11q-. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies showed a threshold of 40% of deleted cells to be optimal for showing that clinical differences in terms of TFT and OS within 11q- CLLs. In patients with ≥40% of losses in 11q (11q-H) (74%), the median TFT was 19 months compared with 44 months in CLL patients with <40% del(11q) (11q-L) (P<0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, only the presence of 11q-L, mutated IGHV status, early Binet stage and absence of extended lymphadenopathy were associated with longer TFT. Patients with 11q-H had an OS of 90 months, while in the 11q-L group the OS was not reached (P = 0.008). The absence of splenomegaly (P = 0.02), low LDH (P = 0.018) or β2M (P = 0.006), and the presence of 11q-L (P = 0.003) were associated with a longer OS. In addition, to detect the presence of mutations in the ATM, TP53, NOTCH1, SF3B1, MYD88, FBXW7, XPO1 and BIRC3 genes, a select cohort of CLL patients with losses in 11q was sequenced by next-generation sequencing of amplicons. Eighty % of CLLs with 11q- showed mutations and fewer patients with low frequencies of 11q- had mutations among genes examined (50% vs 94.1%, P = 0.023). In summary, CLL patients with <40% of 11q- had a long TFT and OS that could be associated with the presence of fewer mutated genes. PMID:26630574

  14. Cardiovascular risk and metabolic syndrome in obese youth enrolled in a multidisciplinary medical weight management program: implications of musculoskeletal pain, cardiorespiratory fitness, and health-related quality of life.

    PubMed

    Briggs, Matthew S; Spees, Colleen; Bout-Tabaku, Sharon; Taylor, Christopher A; Eneli, Ihuoma; Schmitt, Laura C

    2015-04-01

    Obese youth demonstrate the same obesity-associated morbidities observed in obese adults, including poor cardiorespiratory fitness, poor quality of life, and reports of musculoskeletal pain. The purposes of this study were to compare the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and evaluate the odds of metabolic syndrome in obese youth based on measures of cardiorespiratory fitness, quality of life, and pain. A medical chart review of 183 obese youth in a medical weight management program was conducted. Measures of cardiovascular risk and metabolic syndrome were recorded. Groups were categorized based on Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) score, Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL)-Physical Function score, PedsQL-Psychosocial Health score, and reports of musculoskeletal pain. Statistical analysis included independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney U-test, chi-squared test, and logistic regression. Thirty-three percent of the entire sample had C-reactive protein (CRP) levels >3.0 mg/dL and 30% were categorized as having metabolic syndrome. Patients with lower PACER scores demonstrated a greater prevalence of CRP levels >3.0 mg/dL versus those with higher PACER scores (45% vs. 12%; P=0.01). There were no other differences in the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors or metabolic syndrome when categorized by PACER, PedsQL, or pain. Those with CRP levels >3.0 mg/dL demonstrated increased odds of metabolic syndrome-[odds (95% confidence interval, CI): 4.93 (1.24-19.61); P=0.02]. Overall, results do not show differences in cardiovascular risk in obese youth when categorized by PACER, PedsQL, or reports of MSK pain. Elevated CRP may be a useful predictor of metabolic syndrome in obese youth and warrants further investigation.

  15. Aerobic training modulates T cell activation in elderly women with knee osteoarthritis

    PubMed Central

    Gomes, W.F.; Lacerda, A.C.R.; Brito-Melo, G.E.A.; Fonseca, S.F.; Rocha-Vieira, E.; Leopoldino, A.A.O.; Amorim, M.R.; Mendonça, V.A.

    2016-01-01

    Osteoarthritis of the knee (kOA) is a disease that mainly affects the elderly and can lead to major physical and functional limitations. However, the specific effects of walking, particularly on the immune system, are unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the effect of 12 weeks of walking (3×/week) on the leukocyte profile and quality of life (QL) of elderly women with kOA. Sixteen women (age: 67±4 years, body mass index: 28.07±4.16 kg/m2) participated in a walking program. The variables were assessed before and after 12 weeks of training with a progressively longer duration (30–55 min) and higher intensity (72–82% of HRmax determined using a graded incremental treadmill test). The QL was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and blood samples were collected for analysis with a cell counter and the San Fac flow cytometer. Walking training resulted in a 47% enhancement of the self-reported QL (P<0.05) and a 21% increase in the VO2max (P<0.0001) in elderly women with kOA. Furthermore, there was a reduction in CD4+ cells (pre=46.59±7%, post=44.58±9%, P=0.0189) and a higher fluorescence intensity for CD18+CD4+ (pre=45.30±10, post=64.27±33, P=0.0256) and CD18+CD8+ (pre=64.2±27, post=85.02±35, P=0.0130). In conclusion, the walking program stimulated leukocyte production, which may be related to the immunomodulatory effect of exercise. Walking also led to improvements in the QL and physical performance in elderly women with kOA. PMID:27828665

  16. HABIT, a Randomized Feasibility Trial to Increase Hydroxyurea Adherence, Suggests Improved Health-Related Quality of Life in Youths with Sickle Cell Disease.

    PubMed

    Smaldone, Arlene; Findley, Sally; Manwani, Deepa; Jia, Haomiao; Green, Nancy S

    2018-06-01

    To examine the effect of a community health worker (CHW) intervention, augmented by tailored text messages, on adherence to hydroxyurea therapy in youths with sickle cell disease, as well as on generic and disease-specific health-related quality of life (HrQL) and youth-parent self-management responsibility concordance. We conducted a 2-site randomized controlled feasibility study (Hydroxyurea Adherence for Personal Best in Sickle Cell Treatment [HABIT]) with 2:1 intervention allocation. Youths and parents participated as dyads. Intervention dyads received CHW visits and text message reminders. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and growth models adjusting for group assignment, time, and multiple comparisons. Changes in outcomes from 0 to 6 months were compared with their respective minimal clinically important differences. A total of 28 dyads (mean age of youths, 14.3 ± 2.6 years; 50% Hispanic) participated (18 in the intervention group, 10 in the control group), with 10.7% attrition. Accounting for group assignment, time, and multiple comparisons, at 6 months intervention youths reported improved generic HrQL total score (9.8 points; 95% CI, 0.4-19.2) and Emotions subscale score (15.0 points; 95% CI, 1.6-28.4); improved disease-specific subscale scores for Worry I (30.0 points; 95% CI, 8.5-51.5), Emotions (37.0 points, 95% CI, 9.4-64.5), and Communication I (17.8 points; 95% CI, 0.5-35.1); and 3-month dyad self-management responsibility concordance (3.5 points; 95% CI, -0.2 to 7.1). There were no differences in parent proxy-reported HrQL measures at 6 months. These findings add to research examining effects of behavioral interventions on HrQL outcomes in youths with sickle cell disease. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02029742. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  17. A Low Frequency of Losses in 11q Chromosome Is Associated with Better Outcome and Lower Rate of Genomic Mutations in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia.

    PubMed

    Hernández, José Ángel; Hernández-Sánchez, María; Rodríguez-Vicente, Ana Eugenia; Grossmann, Vera; Collado, Rosa; Heras, Cecilia; Puiggros, Anna; Martín, Ana África; Puig, Noemí; Benito, Rocío; Robledo, Cristina; Delgado, Julio; González, Teresa; Queizán, José Antonio; Galende, Josefina; de la Fuente, Ignacio; Martín-Núñez, Guillermo; Alonso, José María; Abrisqueta, Pau; Luño, Elisa; Marugán, Isabel; González-Gascón, Isabel; Bosch, Francesc; Kohlmann, Alexander; González, Marcos; Espinet, Blanca; Hernández-Rivas, Jesús María

    2015-01-01

    To analyze the impact of the 11q deleted (11q-) cells in CLL patients on the time to first therapy (TFT) and overall survival (OS), 2,493 patients with CLL were studied. 242 patients (9.7%) had 11q-. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) studies showed a threshold of 40% of deleted cells to be optimal for showing that clinical differences in terms of TFT and OS within 11q- CLLs. In patients with ≥40% of losses in 11q (11q-H) (74%), the median TFT was 19 months compared with 44 months in CLL patients with <40% del(11q) (11q-L) (P<0.0001). In the multivariate analysis, only the presence of 11q-L, mutated IGHV status, early Binet stage and absence of extended lymphadenopathy were associated with longer TFT. Patients with 11q-H had an OS of 90 months, while in the 11q-L group the OS was not reached (P = 0.008). The absence of splenomegaly (P = 0.02), low LDH (P = 0.018) or β2M (P = 0.006), and the presence of 11q-L (P = 0.003) were associated with a longer OS. In addition, to detect the presence of mutations in the ATM, TP53, NOTCH1, SF3B1, MYD88, FBXW7, XPO1 and BIRC3 genes, a select cohort of CLL patients with losses in 11q was sequenced by next-generation sequencing of amplicons. Eighty % of CLLs with 11q- showed mutations and fewer patients with low frequencies of 11q- had mutations among genes examined (50% vs 94.1%, P = 0.023). In summary, CLL patients with <40% of 11q- had a long TFT and OS that could be associated with the presence of fewer mutated genes.

  18. Quality of life in children with infantile hemangioma: a case control study.

    PubMed

    Wang, Chuan; Li, Yanan; Xiang, Bo; Xiong, Fei; Li, Kai; Yang, Kaiying; Chen, Siyuan; Ji, Yi

    2017-11-16

    Infantile hemangioma (IH) is the most common vascular tumor in children. It is controversial whether IHs has effects on the quality of life (QOL) in patients of whom IH poses no threat or potential for complication. Thus, we conducted this study to evaluate the q QOL in patients with IH and find the predictors of poor QOL. The PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales and the PedsQL family information form were administered to parents of children with IH and healthy children both younger than 2-year-old. The quality-of-life instrument for IH (IH-QOL) and the PedsQL 4.0 family impact module were administered to parents of children with IH. We compared the PedsQL 4.0 Genetic Core Scales (GCIS) scores of the two groups. Multiple step-wise regression analysis was used to determine factors that influenced QOL in children with IH and their parents. Except for physical symptom, we found no significant difference in GCIS between patient group and healthy group (P = 0.409). The internal reliability of IH-QOL was excellent with the Cronbach's alpha coefficient for summary scores being 0.76. Multiple step-wise regression analysis showed that the predictors of poor IH-QOL total scores were hemangioma size, location, and mother's education level. The predictors of poor FIM total scores were hemangioma location and father's education level. The predictors of poor GCIS total scores were children's age, hemangioma location and father's education level. The findings support the feasibility and reliability of the Chinese version of IH-QOL to evaluate the QOL in children with IH and their parents. Hemangioma size, location and education level of mother are important impact factors for QOL in children with IH and their parents.

  19. Hemiparesis and Epilepsy Are Associated With Worse Reported Health Status Following Unilateral Stroke in Children

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Sabrina E.; Vargas, Gray; Cucchiara, Andrew J.; Zelonis, Sarah J.; Beslow, Lauren A.

    2015-01-01

    BACKGROUND Perinatal and childhood stroke result in neurological impairment in the majority of survivors, but less is known about patient and parent perception of function following stroke in children. Our aim was to characterize parent-proxy and child-reported health status in children following unilateral arterial ischemic stroke or intraparenchymal hemorrhage. METHODS Fifty-nine children 2–18 years (30 girls, 29 boys) with unilateral arterial ischemic stroke or spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage at least 6 months before evaluation were enrolled from a single center. The PedsQL version 4.0 Generic Short Form and PedsQL version 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module were administered to childhood stroke subjects and parents. Generic PedsQL Inventory scores were compared between children with stroke and published data from healthy children. Reported health status scores for children with varying degrees of hemiparesis were compared. RESULTS Children with stroke had lower reported health status scores on the Generic PedsQL Inventory than healthy children. Children with moderate-severe hemiparesis had worse scores than children without hemiparesis on several measures of the Cerebral Palsy Module as reported by both parents and children. The parents of children with epilepsy reported worse scores on several measures compared with children without epilepsy, and the parent scores were lower on several measures for children with lower intelligence quotients. Agreement between parent and child scores was better on the Cerebral Palsy Module than on the Generic Inventory. CONCLUSIONS Children with stroke have worse reported health status than healthy controls. Degree of hemiparesis, epilepsy, and lower intelligence quotient affect reported health status on some measures. Agreement between parent-proxy and child scores ranges from slight to good which suggests that both provide useful information. PMID:25559938

  20. Hemiparesis and epilepsy are associated with worse reported health status following unilateral stroke in children.

    PubMed

    Smith, Sabrina E; Vargas, Gray; Cucchiara, Andrew J; Zelonis, Sarah J; Beslow, Lauren A

    2015-04-01

    Perinatal and childhood stroke result in neurological impairment in the majority of survivors, but less is known about patient and parent perception of function following stroke in children. Our aim was to characterize parent-proxy and child-reported health status in children following unilateral arterial ischemic stroke or intraparenchymal hemorrhage. Fifty-nine children 2-18 years (30 girls, 29 boys) with unilateral arterial ischemic stroke or spontaneous intraparenchymal hemorrhage at least 6 months before evaluation were enrolled from a single center. The PedsQL version 4.0 Generic Short Form and PedsQL version 3.0 Cerebral Palsy Module were administered to childhood stroke subjects and parents. Generic PedsQL Inventory scores were compared between children with stroke and published data from healthy children. Reported health status scores for children with varying degrees of hemiparesis were compared. Children with stroke had lower reported health status scores on the Generic PedsQL Inventory than healthy children. Children with moderate-severe hemiparesis had worse scores than children without hemiparesis on several measures of the Cerebral Palsy Module as reported by both parents and children. The parents of children with epilepsy reported worse scores on several measures compared with children without epilepsy, and the parent scores were lower on several measures for children with lower intelligence quotients. Agreement between parent and child scores was better on the Cerebral Palsy Module than on the Generic Inventory. Children with stroke have worse reported health status than healthy controls. Degree of hemiparesis, epilepsy, and lower intelligence quotient affect reported health status on some measures. Agreement between parent-proxy and child scores ranges from slight to good which suggests that both provide useful information. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Performance Analysis and Design Synthesis (PADS) computer program. Volume 2: Program description, part 2

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1972-01-01

    The QL module of the Performance Analysis and Design Synthesis (PADS) computer program is described. Execution of this module is initiated when and if subroutine PADSI calls subroutine GROPE. Subroutine GROPE controls the high level logical flow of the QL module. The purpose of the module is to determine a trajectory that satisfies the necessary variational conditions for optimal performance. The module achieves this by solving a nonlinear multi-point boundary value problem. The numerical method employed is described. It is an iterative technique that converges quadratically when it does converge. The three basic steps of the module are: (1) initialization, (2) iteration, and (3) culmination. For Volume 1 see N73-13199.

  2. Psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 generic core scales.

    PubMed

    Hao, Yuantao; Tian, Qi; Lu, Yiyun; Chai, Yiming; Rao, Shaoqi

    2010-10-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0) generic core scales. The standard procedure of cross-culture adaptation was used to develop the Chinese version PedsQL4.0. We enrolled 1583 healthy children and 1335 pediatric patients (aged from 5 to 18 years) and 325 proxies. The psychometric properties of the measure were evaluated. The subscales of physical functioning, social functioning and psychosocial showed alpha coefficients above 0.7 for self-report in healthy children and the total pediatric patients, and all coefficients were higher than 0.7 for proxy report for all subscales. There were higher correlations between items and hypothesized subscales than with other subscales. Healthy children reported higher scores than pediatric patients in all subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that some of the indices of goodness of fit did not reach the standard of acceptable construct validity. Moderate to high correlations were found between self-reported and proxy-reported scores. The Chinese version PedsQL4.0 has acceptable psychometric properties except the construct validity tested by confirmatory factor analysis and the internal reliability for self-report in pediatric patients with migraine or Gilles and Tourette's syndrome.

  3. An rK28-Based Immunoenzymatic Assay for the Diagnosis of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis in Latin America

    PubMed Central

    Lauricella, Marta Alicia; Maidana, Cristina Graciela; Frias, Victoria Fragueiro; Romagosa, Carlo M.; Negri, Vanesa; Benedetti, Ruben; Sinagra, Angel J.; Luna, Concepcion; Tartaglino, Lilian; Laucella, Susana; Reed, Steven G.; Riarte, Adelina R.

    2016-01-01

    Direct observation of Leishmania parasites in tissue aspirates has shown low sensitivity for the detection of canine visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Therefore in the last quarter century immunoenzymatic tests have been developed to improve diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to develop a fast recombinant K28 antigen, naked-eye qualitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (VL Ql-ELISA) and a quantitative version (VL Qt-ELISA), and to display it in a kit format, whose cutoff value (0.156) was selected as the most adequate one to differentiate reactive from nonreactive samples. Considering 167 cases and 300 controls, sensitivity was 91% for both assays and specificity was 100% and 98.7% in Ql-ELISA and Qt-ELISA, respectively. Positive predictive values were 100% and 97.4% for Ql-ELISA and Qt-ELISA, respectively, and negative predictive values were 95.2% for both ELISAs. Reagent stability, reliability studies, including periodic repetitions and retest of samples, cutoff selection, and comparison of rK28 ELISAs with rK39 immunochromatographic test, were the international criteria that supported the quality in both kits. The performance of both ELISA kits in this work confirmed their validity and emphasized their usefulness for low-to-medium complexity laboratories. PMID:27162270

  4. 1, 2, 3, 4: infusing quantitative literacy into introductory biology.

    PubMed

    Speth, Elena Bray; Momsen, Jennifer L; Moyerbrailean, Gregory A; Ebert-May, Diane; Long, Tammy M; Wyse, Sara; Linton, Debra

    2010-01-01

    Biology of the twenty-first century is an increasingly quantitative science. Undergraduate biology education therefore needs to provide opportunities for students to develop fluency in the tools and language of quantitative disciplines. Quantitative literacy (QL) is important for future scientists as well as for citizens, who need to interpret numeric information and data-based claims regarding nearly every aspect of daily life. To address the need for QL in biology education, we incorporated quantitative concepts throughout a semester-long introductory biology course at a large research university. Early in the course, we assessed the quantitative skills that students bring to the introductory biology classroom and found that students had difficulties in performing simple calculations, representing data graphically, and articulating data-driven arguments. In response to students' learning needs, we infused the course with quantitative concepts aligned with the existing course content and learning objectives. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated by significant improvement in the quality of students' graphical representations of biological data. Infusing QL in introductory biology presents challenges. Our study, however, supports the conclusion that it is feasible in the context of an existing course, consistent with the goals of college biology education, and promotes students' development of important quantitative skills.

  5. 1, 2, 3, 4: Infusing Quantitative Literacy into Introductory Biology

    PubMed Central

    Momsen, Jennifer L.; Moyerbrailean, Gregory A.; Ebert-May, Diane; Long, Tammy M.; Wyse, Sara; Linton, Debra

    2010-01-01

    Biology of the twenty-first century is an increasingly quantitative science. Undergraduate biology education therefore needs to provide opportunities for students to develop fluency in the tools and language of quantitative disciplines. Quantitative literacy (QL) is important for future scientists as well as for citizens, who need to interpret numeric information and data-based claims regarding nearly every aspect of daily life. To address the need for QL in biology education, we incorporated quantitative concepts throughout a semester-long introductory biology course at a large research university. Early in the course, we assessed the quantitative skills that students bring to the introductory biology classroom and found that students had difficulties in performing simple calculations, representing data graphically, and articulating data-driven arguments. In response to students' learning needs, we infused the course with quantitative concepts aligned with the existing course content and learning objectives. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated by significant improvement in the quality of students' graphical representations of biological data. Infusing QL in introductory biology presents challenges. Our study, however, supports the conclusion that it is feasible in the context of an existing course, consistent with the goals of college biology education, and promotes students' development of important quantitative skills. PMID:20810965

  6. Infection with Schistosoma mansoni has an Effect on Quality of Life, but not on Physical Fitness in Schoolchildren in Mwanza Region, North-Western Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study

    PubMed Central

    Kinung’hi, Safari; Magnussen, Pascal; Kaatano, Godfrey

    2016-01-01

    Background Infection with Schistosoma mansoni negatively impact children’s physical health and may influence their general well-being. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of S. mansoni infections on a panel of morbidity indicators with emphasis on quality of life (PedsQL; measured in four different dimensions) and physical fitness (measured as VO2 max) among 572 schoolchildren aged 7–8 years. Methodology/Principal findings Prevalence of S. mansoni infections was 58.7%, with an arithmetic mean (95% CI) among positives of 207.3 (169.2–245.4) eggs per gram (epg). Most infections were light (56.5%), while 16.4% had heavy infections. Girls had significantly higher arithmetic mean intensities (95% CI) than boys (247.4 (189.2–305.6) vs. 153.2 (110.6–195.8); P = 0.004). A total of 30.1% were anaemic with no sex difference. Stunting and wasting was found in less than 10% of the population. There was no association between S. mansoni prevalence or intensities and the following parameters: anthropometry, anaemia, liver or spleen pathology in neither univariable nor multivariable linear regression analyses. However, in univariable analyses children with S. mansoni infection had a significantly lower score in emotional PedsQL (95% CI) than uninfected (77.3 (74.5–80.1) vs. 82.7 (79.9–85.5); P = 0.033) and infected children had a higher VO2 max (95% CI) compared to uninfected (51.4 (51.0–51.8) vs. 50.8 (50.3–51.3); P = 0.042). In multivariable linear regression analyses, age, S. mansoni infection, haemoglobin and VO2 max were significant predictors for emotional PedsQL while significant predictors for VO2 max were physical PedsQL, height, age and haemoglobin. S. mansoni infection was thus not retained in the multivariable regression analyses on VO2 max. Conclusions/Significance Of the measured morbidity parameters, S. mansoni infection had a significant effect on the emotional dimension of quality of life, but not on physical fitness. If PedsQL

  7. Asteroids Observed from GMARS and Santana Observatories: 2011 July - September

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stephens, Robert D.

    2012-01-01

    Lightcurves of three asteroids were obtained from Santana Observatory and Goat Mountain Astronomical Research Station (GMARS) from 2011 July to September: 688 Melanie, 1077 Campanula, and (42265) 2001 QL69.

  8. Quantum-Like Models for Decision Making in Psychology and Cognitive Science

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khrennikov, Andrei.

    2009-02-01

    We show that (in contrast to rather common opinion) the domain of applications of the mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics is not restricted to physics. This formalism can be applied to the description of various quantum-like (QL) information processing. In particular, the calculus of quantum (and more general QL) probabilities can be used to explain some paradoxical statistical data which was collected in psychology and cognitive science. The main lesson of our study is that one should sharply distinguish the mathematical apparatus of QM from QM as a physical theory. The domain of application of the mathematical apparatus is essentially wider than quantum physics. Quantum-like representation algorithm, formula of total probability, interference of probabilities, psychology, cognition, decision making.

  9. QL-10NEURO-ONCOLOGY TELEMEDICINE FOLLOW-UP VISITS

    PubMed Central

    Green, Richard; Woyshner, Emily

    2014-01-01

    We report our 18 month experience with the use of a videoconferencing system to perform neuro-oncology follow-up visits. The Neuro-oncology Program at the Kaiser Permanente-Los Angeles Medical center serves the majority of Kaiser HMO patients in the Southern California region. We installed a videoconferencing system (Cisco TelePresence EX90, Cisco Systems, San Jose, CA) in our office in Los Angeles and in a medical office building in Anaheim, CA at a distance of 35 miles. Established neuro-oncology patients from Orange County chose between in-person and remote visits. Patients were seated in an examination room and the neuro-oncology provider alerted by text page. A focused history and physical examination was performed, followed by desktop sharing of clinical and laboratory data using an electronic medical record (Epic Systems Corporation, Verona, WI) and of neuroimages (Phillips iSite PACS, Andover, MA). Patients were asked, but not required, to complete an anonymous online 16 question satisfaction survey after each visit. Visits were performed by either a neuro-oncologist (179) or a Physician's Assistant (12). Of the 191 visits, 174 included evaluation of neuroimaging and 77 included evaluation of response to ongoing chemotherapy. During 12 visits chemotherapy was initiated, and during 15 visits the chemotherapy regimen was changed based on imaging findings. One-hundred and eleven surveys (58% of visits) were completed. Patients reported a high level of satisfaction with the visits (average 9.6, on a 1-10 scale). The average estimated travel time saved was 118 minutes per visit. Four surveys reported technical problems and 1 indicated a preference for an in-person visit. No adverse events could be attributed to use of the telemedicine system. These data suggest that neuro-oncology follow-up visits can be practiced safely and effectively using a telemedicine system, with high levels of patient satisfaction.

  10. Exercise training utilizing body weight-supported treadmill walking with a young adult with cerebral palsy who was non-ambulatory.

    PubMed

    DiBiasio, Paula A; Lewis, Cynthia L

    2012-11-01

    The purpose of this case report is to determine the effects of exercise training using body weight-supported treadmill walking (BWSTW) with an 18-year-old male diagnosed with Cerebral palsy (CP) who was non-ambulatory and not receiving physical therapy. Outcome measures included the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI), heart rate (HR), rate of perceived exertion, 3-minute walk test and physiological cost index (PCI). BWSTW sessions took place twice a week for 6 weeks with a reduction of approximately 40% of the patient's weight. Over-ground 3-minute walk test distance and PCI were essentially unchanged. BWSTW exercise time increased by 67% with a 43% increase in speed while average working HR decreased by 8%. BWSTW PCI decreased by 26%. PedsQL parent report improved in all domains. PedsQL self-report demonstrated a mild decrease. PEDI showed improvements in self-care and mobility. Exercise utilizing BWSTW resulted in a positive training effect for this young adult with CP who was non-ambulatory. Developing effective and efficient protocols for exercise training utilizing BWSTW may aid in the use of this form of exercise and further quantify outcomes. Ensuring that young adults with CP have safe and feasible options to exercise and be physically active on a regular basis is an important role of a physical therapist.

  11. Weighting factors for radiation quality: how to unite the two current concepts.

    PubMed

    Kellerer, Albrecht M

    2004-01-01

    The quality factor, Q(L), used to be the universal weighting factor to account for radiation quality, until--in its 1991 Recommendations--the ICRP established a dichotomy between 'computable' and 'measurable' quantities. The new concept of the radiation weighting factor, w(R), was introduced for use with the 'computable' quantities, such as the effective dose, E. At the same time, the application of Q(L) was restricted to 'measurable' quantities, such as the operational quantities ambient dose equivalent or personal dose equivalent. The result has been a dual system of incoherent dosimetric quantities. The most conspicuous inconsistency resulted for neutrons, for which the new concept of wR had been primarily designed. While its definition requires an accounting for the gamma rays produced by neutron capture in the human body, this effect is not adequately reflected in the numerical values of wR, which are now suitable for mice, but are--at energies of the incident neutrons below 1 MeV--conspicuously too large for man. A recent Report 92 to ICRP has developed a proposal to correct the current imbalance and to define a linkage between the concepts Q(L) and wR. The proposal is here considered within a broader assessment of the rationale that led to the current dual system of dosimetric quantities.

  12. Reasons for Non-Completion of Health Related Quality of Life Evaluations in Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Report from the Children’s Oncology Group

    PubMed Central

    Johnston, Donna L.; Nagarajan, Rajaram; Caparas, Mae; Schulte, Fiona; Cullen, Patricia; Aplenc, Richard; Sung, Lillian

    2013-01-01

    Background Health related quality of life (HRQL) assessments during therapy for pediatric cancer are important. The objective of this study was to describe reasons for failure to provide HRQL assessments during a pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) clinical trial. Methods We focused on HRQL assessments embedded in a multicenter pediatric AML clinical trial. The PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales, PedsQL 3.0 Acute Cancer Module, PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale, and Pediatric Inventory for Parents were obtained from parent/guardian respondents at a maximum of six time points. Children provided self-report optionally. A central study coordinator contacted sites with delinquent HRQL data. Reasons for failure to submit the HRQL assessments were evaluated by three pediatric oncologists and themes were generated using thematic analysis. Results There were 906 completed and 1091 potential assessments included in this analysis (83%). The median age of included children was 12.9 years (range 2.0 to 18.9). The five themes for non-completion were: patient too ill; passive or active refusal by respondent; developmental delay; logistical challenges; and poor knowledge of study processes from both the respondent and institutional perspective. Conclusions We identified reasons for non-completion of HRQL assessments during active therapy. This information will facilitate recommendations to improve study processes and future HRQL study designs to maximize response rates. PMID:24040278

  13. Feasibility, Validity, and Reliability of the Italian Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale for Adults in Inpatients with Severe Obesity.

    PubMed

    Manzoni, Gian Mauro; Rossi, Alessandro; Marazzi, Nicoletta; Agosti, Fiorenza; De Col, Alessandra; Pietrabissa, Giada; Castelnuovo, Gianluca; Molinari, Enrico; Sartorio, Allessandro

    2018-01-01

    This study was aimed to examine the feasibility, validity, and reliability of the Italian Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL™ MFS) for adult inpatients with severe obesity. 200 inpatients (81% females) with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) completed the PedsQL MFS (General Fatigue, Sleep/Rest Fatigue and Cognitive Fatigue domains), the Fatigue Severity Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale immediately after admission to a 3-week residential body weight reduction program. A randomized subsample of 48 patients re-completed the PedsQL MFS after 3 days. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a modified hierarchical model with two items moved from the Sleep/Rest Fatigue domain to the General Fatigue domain and a second-order latent factor best fitted the data. Internal consistency and test-retest reliabilities were acceptable to high in all scales, and small to high statistically significant correlations were found with all convergent measures, with the exception of BMI. Significant floor effects were found in two scales (Cognitive Fatigue and Sleep/Rest Fatigue). The Italian modified PedsQL MFS for adults showed to be a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of fatigue in inpatients with severe obesity. Future studies should assess its discriminant validity as well as its responsiveness to weight reduction. © 2018 The Author(s) Published by S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg.

  14. Feasibility, Validity, and Reliability of the Italian Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale for Adults in Inpatients with Severe Obesity

    PubMed Central

    Manzoni, Gian Mauro; Rossi, Alessandro; Marazzi, Nicoletta; Agosti, Fiorenza; De Col, Alessandra; Pietrabissa, Giada; Castelnuovo, Gianluca; Molinari, Enrico; Sartorio, Allessandro

    2018-01-01

    Objective This study was aimed to examine the feasibility, validity, and reliability of the Italian Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL™ MFS) for adult inpatients with severe obesity. Methods 200 inpatients (81% females) with severe obesity (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) completed the PedsQL MFS (General Fatigue, Sleep/Rest Fatigue and Cognitive Fatigue domains), the Fatigue Severity Scale, and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale immediately after admission to a 3-week residential body weight reduction program. A randomized subsample of 48 patients re-completed the PedsQL MFS after 3 days. Results Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a modified hierarchical model with two items moved from the Sleep/Rest Fatigue domain to the General Fatigue domain and a second-order latent factor best fitted the data. Internal consistency and test-retest reliabilities were acceptable to high in all scales, and small to high statistically significant correlations were found with all convergent measures, with the exception of BMI. Significant floor effects were found in two scales (Cognitive Fatigue and Sleep/Rest Fatigue). Conclusion The Italian modified PedsQL MFS for adults showed to be a valid and reliable tool for the assessment of fatigue in inpatients with severe obesity. Future studies should assess its discriminant validity as well as its responsiveness to weight reduction. PMID:29402854

  15. Assessment of the quality of life through the SF-36 questionnaire in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain

    PubMed Central

    Adorno, Marta Lúcia Guimarães Resende; Brasil-Neto, Joaquim Pereira

    2013-01-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the quality of life (QL) with the use of the SF-36 Questionnaire in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP). Thirty patients with CNLBP were randomly assigned to one of three groups (Iso group (Isostretching), GPR group (Global Postural Reeducation), and the Iso+GPR group. Patients underwent physical therapy assessment with the use of the Vertebral Spine Assessment, the Visual Analog Scale of Pain (VASP), and the SF-36 life quality questionnaire before the first session (first assessment), after three months of treatment (second assessment) and reassessed two months after the final session in the follow-up (third assessment). The results indicated that both physical therapy techniques reduced pain (p<0.001); when the techniques (Iso+GPR) were combined, the reduction in pain was significantly greater; and, in the follow-up assessment, the GPR method was more efficient. As for the QL, physical therapy techniques were effective after the interventions (p<0.001), and the Iso method was more effective when patients were reassessed in the follow-up. We conclude that the physical therapy techniques used in this study were efficient to treat CNLBP in the patients since they reduced pain and increased QL according to the results of the SF-36 questionnaire. Level of Evidence II, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. PMID:24453669

  16. The Association Between Length of Recovery Following Sport-Related Concussion and Generic and Specific Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescent Athletes: A Prospective, Longitudinal Study.

    PubMed

    Valovich McLeod, Tamara; Bay, R Curtis; Lam, Kenneth C; Snyder Valier, Alison R

    2018-05-31

    Our purpose was to determine the association between concussion recovery and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Secondary school athletic training facilities. Patients (N = 122) with a concussion. Prospective, longitudinal cohort. The Pediatric Quality-of-Life Inventory (PedsQL), PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (MFS), and Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6) were completed at preseason and days 3 (D3), 10 (D10), and 30 (D30) postconcussion. The independent variable was the recovery group. Interactions between group and time (P < .001) were noted for all PedsQL subscales, except Social Functioning (P = .75). Significantly lower scores were found among Prolonged than in Short on D3 (P < .05). Significant interactions (P < .001) were also noted for all MFS subscales. Pairwise comparisons for General and Sleep subscales revealed Prolonged had lower scores than Short and Moderate on D3 and D10. A group by time interaction was found for the HIT-6 (P < .001), with scores being higher (P < .01) in Prolonged than in Short on D3 and D10. Adolescents with a prolonged recovery demonstrated lower HRQOL in the immediate days postinjury, particularly in physical and school functioning, fatigue, and headache. There was a strong association between recovery length and school functioning. Additional research is needed to understand how to minimize the impact of concussion on HRQOL.

  17. Tramadol plus metamizole combined or not with anti-inflammatory drugs is clinically effective for moderate to severe chronic pain treatment in cancer patients.

    PubMed

    Flôr, Patrícia B; Yazbek, Karina V B; Ida, Keila K; Fantoni, Denise T

    2013-05-01

    To test the effectiveness and safety of tramadol plus metamizole combined or not with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for treating moderate to severe chronic neoplastic pain in dogs, and its impact on quality of life (QL). Prospective, uncontrolled, open-label, clinical study. Sixty nine client-owned dogs with multiple forms of cancer and visual analog scale (VAS) pain score ≥ 40 after receiving NSAIDs for at least 7 days. The MN group received metamizole + NSAID, MNT group received metamizole + NSAID + tramadol and MT group received metamizole + tramadol. Pain was scored by the 0 to 100 mm VAS (0 = no pain, 100 = worst pain) and analgesic therapy was considered effective if 25 mm differences in VAS scores were observed between day 0 and the follow ups. The QL was evaluated according to a 0 to 36 scoring method for dogs (0 = worst, 36 = best) and side effects were recorded. Data were registered at day 0 (baseline) and at the first and second follow ups (7 and 14 days after day 0, respectively). The MN group had less analgesia at day 7 (25%) and day 14 (42%) than MNT (59%, p = 0.0274; 76%, p = 0.0251, respectively) and MT groups (69%, p = 0.0151; 81%, p = 0.0341, respectively). The QL scores were lower in the MN group at the first (score 23) and second follow up (score 26) than in MNT (27, p = 0.0847; 30, p = 0.0002) and MT (28, p = 0.0384; 31, p = 0.0001) groups. Side effects were more commonly observed in the MN group (87%) than in MNT (24%, p < 0.0001) and MT groups (25%, p = 0.0003) at the first follow up. Tramadol plus metamizole combined or not with NSAID were well tolerated and clinically effective to treat moderate to severe pain in dogs with cancer and improved QL. © 2013 The Authors. Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia © 2013 Association of Veterinary Anaesthetists and the American College of Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia.

  18. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, , 11/23/1966

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-14

    ... r ~ ~,1]l~ ~ ~{Ql1! !IINK( I ~~~.~itt~~~I~~ 11 l ~~~~~ t· --' L . . ~_".... ___ . __ . ..--J ' . • t ) IL " t~S .. 50· Formulating Information! ...

  19. A Semantic Basis for Proof Queries and Transformations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aspinall, David; Denney, Ewen W.; Luth, Christoph

    2013-01-01

    We extend the query language PrQL, designed for inspecting machine representations of proofs, to also allow transformation of proofs. PrQL natively supports hiproofs which express proof structure using hierarchically nested labelled trees, which we claim is a natural way of taming the complexity of huge proofs. Query-driven transformations enable manipulation of this structure, in particular, to transform proofs produced by interactive theorem provers into forms that assist their understanding, or that could be consumed by other tools. In this paper we motivate and define basic transformation operations, using an abstract denotational semantics of hiproofs and queries. This extends our previous semantics for queries based on syntactic tree representations.We define update operations that add and remove sub-proofs, and manipulate the hierarchy to group and ungroup nodes. We show that

  20. Few-quintuple Bi₂Te₃ nanofilms as potential thermoelectric materials.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Gang; Wang, Dong

    2015-01-29

    The thermoelectric transport properties of p-type Bi₂Te₃ nanofilms with various quintuple layers (QL) were systematically investigated based on ab initio electronic structure calculations and Boltzmann transport equations. Our results demonstrated that p-type few-quintuple Bi₂Te₃ nanofilms could exhibit high thermoelectric performance. It was found out that the 1QL Bi₂Te₃ nanofilm had the highest ZT value as compared with other nanofilms, which is mainly attributed to the significant enhancement of the density of states near the edge of the valence band resulting from the strong coupling between the top and bottom electronic states and the quantum confinement effect. The dependence of the thermoelectric transport properties on carrier concentration and temperature was also discussed in detail, which can be useful for searching high-efficiency few-quintuple Bi₂Te₃ thermoelectric nanofilms.

  1. Gastrointestinal symptoms predictors of health-related quality of life in pediatric patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    To investigate the patient-reported multidimensional gastrointestinal symptoms predictors of generic health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in pediatric patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Gastrointestinal Symptoms Scales and ...

  2. Reliability and validity of the Thai version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0.

    PubMed

    Sritipsukho, Paskorn; Wisai, Matoorada; Thavorncharoensap, Montarat

    2013-04-01

    The study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Thai version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ 4.0 Core Scales (PedsQL) as a measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The PedsQL items were completed by 2,086 pupils aged 8-15 years and 1,914 parents from four schools, and 100 pediatric outpatients and 100 parents from a University Hospital. Test-retest reliability was conducted in a randomly selected of 150 pupils at a 1-month interval. Internal consistency reliability for the Total Scale score (α = 0.84 self-report, 0.88 proxy-report), Physical Health Summary score (α = 0.76 self-report, 0.79 proxy-report), and Psychosocial Health Summary score (α = 0.74 self-report, 0.85 proxy-report) exceeded the minimum reliability standard of 0.70. School children had significantly higher mean HRQOL scores compared to those with chronic health conditions for all subscales with the mean differences of 3.1-12.4 for self-report (p < 0.03) and 7.7-15.6 for proxy-report (p < 0.001). Test-retest reliability showed intraclass correlation coefficients above 0.60 in all subscales (p < 0.001). The Thai version of PedsQL had adequate reliability and validity and could be used as an outcome measure of HRQOL in Thai children aged 8-15 years.

  3. Health-related quality of life for pediatric emergency department febrile illnesses: an evaluation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Mistry, Rakesh D; Stevens, Molly W; Gorelick, Marc H

    2009-01-29

    We sought to assess the validity and short-term responsiveness of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) for febrile illnesses evaluated in the pediatric emergency department (ED). Prospective cohort study of children 2-18 years discharged after ED evaluation for fever (>or= 38 degrees C). Self-administered, parent-report of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was assessed using the PedsQL Acute Version, a validated HRQOL instrument. HRQOL was measured on ED presentation and at 7-10 day follow-up. At follow-up, duration of fever, child functional impairment, missed daycare/school, and disrupted family unit functioning, were assessed. Of 160 subjects enrolled, 97 (61%) completed the study; mean follow-up was 8.7 days. Mean total HRQOL score on ED presentation was 76.4; mean follow-up score was 86.3. Compared to subjects that returned to baseline, statistically significant differences in HRQOL were noted for those with prolonged fever, child functional impairment, and relapse. Significant correlation was observed between HRQOL at follow-up and days of daycare/school missed (r = -0.35, p = .003) and days of family disruption (r = -0.43, p < .001). Mean change in HRQOL within subjects, from ED visit to follow-up, was +9.8 (95% CI: 5.6-14.6). Effect size was 0.53, indicating moderate responsiveness. The PedsQL appears to be a valid and responsive indicator of HRQOL for short-term febrile illnesses evaluated in the ED.

  4. Structural, thermal, morphological and biological studies of proton-transfer complexes formed from 4-aminoantipyrine with quinol and picric acid

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adam, Abdel Majid A.

    2013-03-01

    4-Aminoantipyrine (4AAP) is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, biochemical experiments and environmental monitoring. However, residual amounts of 4AAP in the environment may pose a threat to human health. To provide basic data that can be used to extract or eliminate 4AAP from the environment, the proton-transfer complexes of 4AAP with quinol (QL) and picric acid (PA) were synthesized and spectroscopically investigated. The interactions afforded two new proton-transfer salts named 1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-aminium-4-hydroxyphenolate and 1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-aminium-2,4,6-trinitrophenolate for QL and PA, respectively, via a 1:1 stoichiometry. Elemental analysis (CHN), electronic absorption, spectrophotometric titration, IR, Raman, 1H NMR and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the new products. The thermal stability of the synthesized CT complexes was investigated using thermogravimetric (TG) analyses, and the morphology and particle size of these complexes were obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that PA and 4AAP immediately formed a yellow precipitate with a remarkable sponge-like morphology and good thermal stability up to 180 °C. Finally, the biological activities of the newly synthesized CT complexes were tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities. The results indicated that the [(4AAP)(QL)] complex exhibited strong antimicrobial activities against various bacterial and fungal strains compared with standard drugs.

  5. Synthesis and characterization of highly conductive charge-transfer complexes using positron annihilation spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adam, Abdel Majid A.; Refat, Moamen S.; Sharshar, T.; Heiba, Z. K.

    Molecular charge-transfer complexes of the tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) with picric acid (Pi-OH), benzene-1,4-diol (QL), tin(IV) tetrachloride (SnCl4), iodine, bromine, and zinc chloride (ZnCl2) have been synthesized and investigated by elemental and thermal analysis, electronic, infrared, Raman and proton-NMR, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction and positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. In this work, three types of acceptors π-acceptors (Pi-OH and QL), σ-acceptors (iodine and bromine), and vacant orbital acceptors (SnCl4 and ZnCl2) were covered. The results of elemental analysis indicated that the CT complexes were formed with ratios 1:1 and 1:2 for QL, SnCl4, and ZnCl2 acceptors and iodine, Pi-OH, and Br2 acceptors, respectively. The type of chelating between the TMEDA donor and the mentioned acceptors depends upon the behavior of both items. The positron annihilation lifetime parameters were found to be dependent on the structure, electronic configuration, and the power of acceptors. The correlation between these parameters and the molecular weight and biological activities of studied complexes was also observed. Regarding the electrical properties, the AC conductivity and the dielectric coefficients were measured as a function of frequency at room temperature. The TMEDA charge-transfer complexes were screened against antibacterial (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and antifungal (Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans) activities.

  6. Health-related quality of life in Japanese children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia during and after chemotherapy.

    PubMed

    Kobayashi, Kyoko; Nakagami-Yamaguchi, Etsuko; Hayakawa, Akira; Adachi, Souichi; Hara, Junichi; Tokimasa, Sadao; Ohta, Hideaki; Hashii, Yoshiko; Rikiishi, Takeshi; Sawada, Machiko; Kuriyama, Kikuko; Kohdera, Urara; Kamibeppu, Kiyoko; Kawasaki, Hirohide; Oda, Megumi; Hori, Hiroki

    2017-02-01

    Quality of life (QOL) as a treatment outcome has not yet been evaluated among patients receiving a specific treatment regimen by treatment phase in a consistent manner. This exploratory cross-sectional study evaluated the QOL of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) receiving one of the most popular treatment regimens in Japan (Japan Association of Childhood Leukemia Study ALL-02 revised protocol). Children aged 5-18 years with newly diagnosed B-cell precursor ALL were included. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory ™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL-J) were completed by children with ALL and their siblings, as well as by age- and sex-matched healthy controls. PedsQL Cancer Module (PedsQL-C) scores were also collected from children with ALL. QOL in children with ALL of the consolidation phase group was significantly decreased compared with that of healthy controls, except in the area of emotional functioning. Regarding the maintenance phase group, QOL impairment was noted in the physical and school functioning, but no differences were noted in social functioning. The off-treatment group had a large effect size only for physical functioning, and the social functioning score was even better in children with ALL than in matched controls. QOL of children with ALL differed with treatment phase. Effect size varied with function and treatment phase. QOL may change with the progression of treatment, and the timing of these changes varied according to function and problem. © 2016 Japan Pediatric Society.

  7. U.S. EPA, Pesticides, Label, MAQUAT 20-M, 12/9/2010

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-13

    ... entire lawn to prevent spread of infection at least ... Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (Staph) are ... Y"ii:t~~ii:M 1~~~k;:~~1~~;;{i'~iTiQl ...

  8. Non-Weight-Bearing and Weight-Bearing Ultrasonography of Select Foot Muscles in Young, Asymptomatic Participants: A Descriptive and Reliability Study.

    PubMed

    Battaglia, Patrick J; Mattox, Ross; Winchester, Brett; Kettner, Norman W

    The primary aim of this study was to determine the reliability of diagnostic ultrasound imaging for select intrinsic foot muscles using both non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing postures. Our secondary aim was to describe the change in muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and dorsoplantar thickness when bearing weight. An ultrasound examination was performed with a linear ultrasound transducer operating between 9 and 12 MHz. Long-axis and short-axis ultrasound images of the abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, and quadratus plantae were obtained in both the non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing postures. Two examiners independently collected ultrasound images to allow for interexaminer and intraexaminer reliability calculation. The change in muscle CSA and dorsoplantar thickness when bearing weight was also studied. There were 26 participants (17 female) with a mean age of 25.5 ± 3.8 years and a mean body mass index of 28.0 ± 7.8 kg/m 2 . Inter-examiner reliability was excellent when measuring the muscles in short axis (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.75) and fair to good in long axis (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.4). Intraexaminer reliability was excellent for the abductor hallucis and flexor digitorum brevis and ranged from fair to good to excellent for the quadratus plantae. Bearing weight did not reduce interexaminer or intraexaminer reliability. All muscles exhibited a significant increase in CSA when bearing weight. This is the first report to describe weight-bearing diagnostic ultrasound of the intrinsic foot muscles. Ultrasound imaging is reliable when imaging these muscles bearing weight. Furthermore, muscle CSA increases in the weight-bearing posture. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  9. Morphology of distal radius curvatures: a CT-based study on the Malaysian Malay population

    PubMed Central

    Singh, Taran Singh Pall; Sadagatullah, Abdul Nawfar; Yusof, Abdul Halim

    2015-01-01

    INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to examine the differing curves of the volar distal radius of healthy Malaysian Malays, so as to obtain detailed morphological information that will further the understanding of volar plate osteosynthesis in Malaysian Malays. METHODS Computed tomography with three-dimensional reconstruction was performed on the wrists of 16 healthy Malaysian Malay volunteers. Profile measurements were made using a software program. A novel parameter, the pronator quadratus curve angle, was explored and introduced in this study. Interclass correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the level of agreement between the data collected by the principal investigator and that collected by an independent radiologist. RESULTS The mean ± standard deviation of the arc radii on the radial aspect was 17.50° ± 5.40°, while the median (interquartile range [IQR]) of the arc radii on the ulnar aspect was 25.27° (IQR 5.80°). The mean ± standard deviation of the curvature of the pronator quadratus line was 40.52° ± 2.48°. The arc radii on the radial aspect was significantly lower than the arc radii on the ulnar aspect (p = 0.001). Different radial and ulnar arcs were observed in 56.25% of the radii; the arc was deeper on the ulnar aspect in 93.75% of the radii. CONCLUSION Based on the findings of this study, the likelihood of achieving anatomical reduction with uniformly curved, fixed-angle volar plates is questionable. Changes in the design of these implants may be needed to optimise their usage in the Malaysian Malay population. PMID:25814075

  10. Effectiveness and experience of arts-based pedagogy among undergraduate nursing students: a mixed methods systematic review.

    PubMed

    Rieger, Kendra L; Chernomas, Wanda M; McMillan, Diana E; Morin, Francine L; Demczuk, Lisa

    2016-11-01

    To develop well rounded professional nurses, educators need diverse pedagogical approaches. There is growing interest in arts-based pedagogy (ABP) as the arts can facilitate reflection, create meaning and engage healthcare students. However, the emerging body of research about ABP needs to be systematically examined. To synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness of ABP in enhancing competencies and learning behaviors in undergraduate nursing education and to explore nursing students' experiences with art-based pedagogy. The review considered studies that included participants who are undergraduate nursing students. The qualitative (QL) component considered studies investigating nursing students' experiences of ABP, and the quantitative (QN) component considered studies evaluating the effectiveness of ABP in undergraduate nursing education. The QL component considered QL studies including designs such as phenomenology, grounded theory, ethnography, action research and feminist research. The QN component considered studies that examined the effectiveness of ABP including designs such as randomized controlled trials, non-randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, before and after studies, prospective and retrospective cohort studies, case-control studies, analytical cross-sectional studies, case series, individual case reports and descriptive cross-sectional studies. The following QN outcomes of ABP were assessed: knowledge acquisition, level of empathy, attitudes toward others, emotional states, reflective practice, self-transcendence, cognitive/ethical maturity, learning behaviors and students' perspectives of ABP. An extensive three-step search strategy was conducted for primary research studies published between January 1, 1994 and April 7, 2015. The strategy included searching CINAHL, MEDLINE, ERIC, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, Arts and Humanities Citation Index, Art Full Text, Scopus, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, A&I, and

  11. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, ORTEX STABILIZED CHLORINE GRANULAR 56, 11/21/1974

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-14

    ... _'Y .. 'p··se" "I' .150 475 "',e,,, I'" ·:·e'··.,h.: ... lJto:.:t;Ql • ... , el' .~··I·:'i!....uart''''.f IUoo:~ ...

  12. St. Louis Harbor Project Pedestrian Survey, Madison County, Illinois. St. Louis District Cultural Resource Management Reports Number 24

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-07-01

    r - ON N- N a- f n" 0 E C > 00 0 0 0 0 000 Q0a aa0C oa0 000 0 a00 Q 0aaa00L 0. -00 -4-- - .26 v 00 04...34- rn -I ൖ ao o o o a. 4,0 , , (, -*-,4 C *44- ci+- liv 01C 0 E Ia 0 C0 I 0o -- uClJO’ - - 0Ij. I4.4D):t~~ tCaM-I-- - - 0 4- L- 4-0 r - - C 0L)- 4)LL C ... E 0 1- 0 ID E - 0+- C - L) 4v + L C I +- QL 4- 0 r z8 I-- 11 0 C4- +- L3~ I-L QL ~ 0 022 mor_( 00 Cl U)I 0%0 4- 04 4 4 63 *00 B a 4)

  13. Oxidizer Scoping Studies

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

    Chancellor, Christopher John

    2016-11-07

    The purpose of this report is to present the results of the acceptable knowledge (AK) review of oxidizers present in active waste streams, provide a technical analysis of the oxidizers, and report the results of the scoping study testing. This report will determine the fastest burning oxidizer to be used in the development of a Test Plan for Preparation and Testing of Sorbents Mixed with Oxidizer found in Transuranic Waste (DWT-TP-001). The companion report, DWT-RPT-002, Sorbent Scoping Studies, contains similar information for sorbents identified during the AK review of TRU waste streams. The results of the oxidizer and sorbent scopingmore » studies will be used to inform the QL1 test plan. The QL1 test results will support the development of a basis of knowledge document that will evaluate oxidizing chemicals and sorbents in TRU waste and provide guidance for treatment.« less

  14. Defining the safe working zones using the minimally invasive lateral retroperitoneal transpsoas approach: an anatomical study.

    PubMed

    Uribe, Juan S; Arredondo, Nicolas; Dakwar, Elias; Vale, Fernando L

    2010-08-01

    and cross obliquely into the retroperitoneum in front of the quadratus lumborum and the iliacus muscles to the iliac crest. With respect to prevention of direct nerve injury, the safe anatomical zones at the disc spaces from L1-2 to L3-4 are at the middle posterior quarter of the VB (midpoint of Zone III) and the safe anatomical zone at the L4-5 disc space is at the midpoint of the VB (Zone II-Zone III demarcation). There is risk of direct injury to the genitofemoral nerve in Zone II at the L2-3 space and in Zone I at the lower lumbar levels L3-4 and L4-5. There is also a potential risk of injury to the ilioinguinal, iliohypogastric, and lateral femoral cutaneous nerves in the retroperitoneal space where they travel obliquely, inferiorly, and anteriorly to the reach the iliac crest and the abdominal wall.

  15. QUALITY OF LIFE IN CHILDREN WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENT: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

    PubMed Central

    Roland, Lauren; Fischer, Caroline; Tran, Kayla; Rachakonda, Tara; Kallogjeri, Dorina; Lieu, Judith

    2017-01-01

    Objective To determine the impact of pediatric hearing loss on quality of life (QOL). Data Sources A qualified medical librarian conducted a literature search for relevant publications that evaluate QOL in school-aged children with hearing loss (HL). Review Methods Studies were assessed independently by two reviewers for inclusion in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Results From 979 abstracts, 69 were identified as relevant; ultimately 41 articles were included in the systematic review. This review revealed that children with HL generally report a lower QOL than their normal hearing peers, and QOL improves after interventions. The extent of these differences is variable among studies, and depends on the QOL measure. Four studies using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) had sufficient data for inclusion in a meta-analysis. After pooling studies, statistically and clinically significant differences in PedsQL scores were found between children with normal hearing and those with HL, specifically in the Social and School domains. Statistically significant differences were also noted in in total scores for children with unilateral HL and in the physical domain for children with bilateral HL as compared to normal hearing, however these differences were not clinically meaningful. Conclusions Our analysis reveals that decreased QOL in children with HL is detected in distinct domains of the PedsQL questionnaire. These domains of school functioning and social interactions are especially important for development and learning. Future work should focus on these specific aspects of QOL when assessing HL in the pediatric population. PMID:27118820

  16. Comorbidity and quality of life in childhood cancer survivors treated with proton beam therapy.

    PubMed

    Fukushima, Hiroko; Fukushima, Takashi; Suzuki, Ryoko; Iwabuchi, Atsushi; Hidaka, Kyoko; Shinkai, Toko; Masumoto, Kouji; Muroi, Ai; Yamamoto, Tetsuya; Nakao, Tomohei; Oshiro, Yoshiko; Mizumoto, Masashi; Sakurai, Hideyuki; Sumazaki, Ryo

    2017-10-01

    The rate of childhood cancer survival has recently reached >80%. Various adverse events among childhood cancer survivors (CCS) have been reported. Proton beams are able to avoid unnecessary irradiation to normal/vital organs. We conducted a quality of life (QOL) study for CCS who were treated with proton beam therapy (PBT). We included those patients treated with PBT to the brain, head, or neck and who were ≤15 years old at the University of Tsukuba Hospital between 1983 and 2011. Clinical information was collected from medical records. Questionnaires including the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales (which assess health-related quality of life) were sent to the families/patients. Sixty patients were included. Median age at treatment was 6.2 years. The number of patients with status alive/dead/unknown was 32/24/4. Median follow-up period was 63.0 months (range, 48-340 months) for survivors. Questionnaires were sent to 25 families/patients and 19 were returned. PedsQL was assessed for 17 patients. Eleven of 32 living patients had at least one comorbidity grade 3/4. Average QOL score was above that for Japanese schoolchildren and adolescents. There was no correlation with comorbidity, and only longer time from treatment was correlated with a higher PedsQL score (P = 0.006). CCS who were treated with multimodal treatment using PBT had a higher QOL score. Higher score was related to longer time since treatment, regardless of comorbidity. © 2017 Japan Pediatric Society.

  17. Does the use of the revised psychosocial assessment tool (PATrev) result in improved quality of life and reduced psychosocial risk in Canadian families with a child newly diagnosed with cancer?

    PubMed

    Barrera, M; Hancock, K; Rokeach, A; Atenafu, E; Cataudella, D; Punnett, A; Johnston, D; Cassidy, M; Zelcer, S; Silva, M; Jansen, P; Bartels, U; Nathan, P C; Shama, W; Greenberg, C

    2014-02-01

    Early psychosocial screening may guide interventions and ameliorate the adverse psychosocial effects of childhood cancer. The revised psychosocial assessment tool provides risk information - Universal (typical distress), Targeted (additional specific distress), and Clinical (severe distress) - about the child with cancer and his or her family. This pilot study investigated the benefits of providing a summary of family psychosocial risk information to the medical team treating the newly diagnosed child (Experimental Group, EG). We conducted a pilot randomized control trial with a sample of 67 parents, comparing the EG to the control group (CG) on parental perception of family psychosocial difficulties (revised psychosocial assessment tool risk levels), child behavior (behavior assessment scale for children-2), pediatric quality of life (PedsQL), and parental anxiety (state-anxiety scale of the state-trait anxiety inventory ), 2-4 weeks after diagnosis (Time 1) and 6 months later (Time 2). Compared to the CG, participants in the EG had significantly reduced targeted and clinical risk (p < 0.001), and improved pain related PedsQL at Time 2 (p < 0.05). Scores for PedsQL total and nearly all subscales improved over time in both groups (p < 0.05 to p < 0.001). No changes in behavior scores were noted. Preliminary findings suggest that providing a summary of the Psychosocial Assessment Tool to the treating team shortly after diagnosis may help reduce family wide psychosocial risk 6 months later and improve quality of life related to pain for children who are undergoing treatment for cancer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  18. Modeling choice and reaction time during arbitrary visuomotor learning through the coordination of adaptive working memory and reinforcement learning

    PubMed Central

    Viejo, Guillaume; Khamassi, Mehdi; Brovelli, Andrea; Girard, Benoît

    2015-01-01

    Current learning theory provides a comprehensive description of how humans and other animals learn, and places behavioral flexibility and automaticity at heart of adaptive behaviors. However, the computations supporting the interactions between goal-directed and habitual decision-making systems are still poorly understood. Previous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) results suggest that the brain hosts complementary computations that may differentially support goal-directed and habitual processes in the form of a dynamical interplay rather than a serial recruitment of strategies. To better elucidate the computations underlying flexible behavior, we develop a dual-system computational model that can predict both performance (i.e., participants' choices) and modulations in reaction times during learning of a stimulus–response association task. The habitual system is modeled with a simple Q-Learning algorithm (QL). For the goal-directed system, we propose a new Bayesian Working Memory (BWM) model that searches for information in the history of previous trials in order to minimize Shannon entropy. We propose a model for QL and BWM coordination such that the expensive memory manipulation is under control of, among others, the level of convergence of the habitual learning. We test the ability of QL or BWM alone to explain human behavior, and compare them with the performance of model combinations, to highlight the need for such combinations to explain behavior. Two of the tested combination models are derived from the literature, and the latter being our new proposal. In conclusion, all subjects were better explained by model combinations, and the majority of them are explained by our new coordination proposal. PMID:26379518

  19. BTS randomised feasibility study of active symptom control with or without chemotherapy in malignant pleural mesothelioma: ISRCTN 54469112.

    PubMed

    Muers, M F; Rudd, R M; O'Brien, M E R; Qian, W; Hodson, A; Parmar, M K B; Girling, D J

    2004-02-01

    The incidence of mesothelioma is rising rapidly in the UK. There is no generally accepted standard treatment. The BTS recommends active symptom control (ASC). It is not known whether chemotherapy in addition prolongs survival or provides worthwhile palliation with acceptable toxicity. Palliation as recorded by patients has been fully reported for only two regimens: mitomycin, vinblastine, and cisplatin (MVP), and vinorelbine (N). The BTS and collaborators planned to conduct a phase III randomised trial comparing ASC only, ASC+MVP, and ASC+N in 840 patients with survival as the primary outcome measure. The aim of the present study was to assess the acceptability of the trial design to patients and the suitability of two standard quality of life (QL) questionnaires for mesothelioma. Collaborating centres registered all new patients with mesothelioma. Those eligible and giving informed consent completed EORTC QLQ-C30+LC13 and FACT-L QL questionnaires and were randomised between all three or any two of (1) ASC only, (2) ASC+4 cycles of MVP, and (3) ASC+12 weekly doses of N. During 1 year, 242 patients were registered of whom 109 (45%) were randomised (55% of the 197 eligible patients). Fifty two patients from 20 centres were randomised to an option including ASC only. This translates into a rate of 312 per year from 60 centres interested in collaborating in the phase III trial. The EORTC QL questionnaire was superior to FACT-L in terms of completeness of data and patient preference. Clinically relevant palliation was achieved with ASC. The planned phase III trial is feasible.

  20. Health related quality of life and emotional health in children with chronic granulomatous disease: a comparison of those managed conservatively with those that have undergone haematopoietic stem cell transplant.

    PubMed

    Cole, Theresa; McKendrick, Fiona; Titman, Penny; Cant, Andrew J; Pearce, Mark S; Cale, Catherine M; Goldblatt, David; Gennery, Andrew R

    2013-01-01

    Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) is a rare primary immunodeficiency that predisposes to life-threatening infections and inflammation. Haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) can cure CGD. Chronic illness reduces quality of life. Children with haematological malignancies report improved quality of life post-HSCT. There are no data for children with CGD. This study evaluated quality of life and emotional well-being in CGD children treated conventionally or transplanted. Parents and children completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory v4.0 (PedsQL) and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires (SDQ). Mean scores were compared with published UK norms. Comparisons were made for those that had or had not undergone HSCT. Forty-seven parents completed PedsQL (children aged 3-15). Twenty-one were post-HSCT. Forty-two completed SDQ (children aged 3-15). Nineteen post-HSCT. Median age for non-HSCT group 9 years. Median age for post-HSCT group 10 years. The HSCT group were median 3 years post-HSCT (range 1-9 years). HSCT survival was 90 %-two died without completing questionnaires Parent and self-reported quality of life for non-transplanted children was significantly lower than healthy children. Parents reported increased emotional difficulties compared to published norms. PedsQL and SDQ scores for transplanted children were not significantly different from healthy norms. This study demonstrates the quality of life is reduced in CGD. Transplanted patients have quality of life comparable to levels reported in healthy children. This data will help inform families and clinicians when deciding about treatment and may have relevance for other immunodeficiencies treated with transplant.

  1. Prediction of Multidimensional Fatigue After Childhood Brain Injury.

    PubMed

    Crichton, Alison J; Babl, Franz; Oakley, Ed; Greenham, Mardee; Hearps, Stephen; Delzoppo, Carmel; Hutchison, Jamie; Beauchamp, Miriam; Anderson, Vicki A

    To determine (1) the presence of fatigue symptoms and predictors of fatigue after childhood brain injury and examine (2) the feasibility, reliability, and validity of a multidimensional fatigue measure (PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale [MFS]) obtained from parent and child perspectives. Emergency and intensive care units of a hospital in Melbourne, Australia. Thirty-five families (34 parent-proxies and 32 children) aged 8 to 18 years (mean child age = 13.29 years) with traumatic brain injury (TBI) of all severities (27 mild, 5 moderate, and 3 severe) admitted to the Royal Children's Hospital. Longitudinal prospective study. Fatigue data collected at 6-week follow-up (mean = 6.9 weeks). Postinjury child- and parent-rated fatigue (PedsQL MFS), mood, sleep, and pain based on questionnaire report: TBI severity (mild vs moderate/severe TBI). A score greater than 2 standard deviations below healthy control data indicated the presence of abnormal fatigue, rates of which were higher compared with normative data for both parent and child reports (47% and 29%). Fatigue was predicted by postinjury depression and sleep disturbance for parent, but not child ratings. Fatigue, as rated by children, was not significantly predicted by TBI severity or other symptoms. The PedsQL MFS demonstrated acceptable measurement properties in child TBI participants, evidenced by good feasibility and reliability (Cronbach α values >0.90). Interrater reliability between parent and child reports was poor to moderate. Results underscore the need to assess fatigue and associated sleep-wake disturbance and depression after child TBI from both parent and child perspectives.

  2. Structural, thermal, morphological and biological studies of proton-transfer complexes formed from 4-aminoantipyrine with quinol and picric acid.

    PubMed

    Adam, Abdel Majid A

    2013-03-01

    4-Aminoantipyrine (4AAP) is widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, biochemical experiments and environmental monitoring. However, residual amounts of 4AAP in the environment may pose a threat to human health. To provide basic data that can be used to extract or eliminate 4AAP from the environment, the proton-transfer complexes of 4AAP with quinol (QL) and picric acid (PA) were synthesized and spectroscopically investigated. The interactions afforded two new proton-transfer salts named 1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-aminium-4-hydroxyphenolate and 1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-aminium-2,4,6-trinitrophenolate for QL and PA, respectively, via a 1:1 stoichiometry. Elemental analysis (CHN), electronic absorption, spectrophotometric titration, IR, Raman, (1)H NMR and X-ray diffraction were used to characterize the new products. The thermal stability of the synthesized CT complexes was investigated using thermogravimetric (TG) analyses, and the morphology and particle size of these complexes were obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was found that PA and 4AAP immediately formed a yellow precipitate with a remarkable sponge-like morphology and good thermal stability up to 180°C. Finally, the biological activities of the newly synthesized CT complexes were tested for their antibacterial and antifungal activities. The results indicated that the [(4AAP)(QL)] complex exhibited strong antimicrobial activities against various bacterial and fungal strains compared with standard drugs. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Dynamic Ultrasonography of the Deep External Rotator Musculature of the Hip: A Descriptive Study.

    PubMed

    Battaglia, Patrick J; Mattox, Ross; Haun, Daniel W; Welk, Aaron B; Kettner, Norman W

    2016-07-01

    No detailed reports exist describing the methodology of ultrasound image acquisition of the deep external rotator muscles of the hip. Because gluteal pain and sciatica are common, ultrasound may be a useful dynamic imaging adjunct in the evaluation of these patients. To describe dynamic ultrasonography of the deep external rotator muscles of the hip for diagnostic purposes. Descriptive. University radiology department. Participants (n = 25; 14 male) without gluteal pain or sciatica were enrolled (mean age 27.6 ± 4.7 years; mean body mass index 26.0 ± 4.1 kg/m(2)). Ultrasonographic cine clips oriented to the long axis of each deep external rotator muscle were captured. In addition, cine clips of the piriformis tendon and obturator internus tendon were obtained. Cine clips were analyzed approximately 1 week after completion of image acquisition independently by 2 blinded raters. A 5-point Likert scale to evaluate the diagnostic utility of the ultrasound image. The modal Likert scores for rater 1 were as follows: piriformis muscle = 4; piriformis tendon = 4; superior gemellus muscle = 3; obturator internus muscle = 4; obturator internus tendon = 4; inferior gemellus muscle = 4; quadratus femoris muscle = 4. The modal scores for rater 2 were: piriformis muscle = 4; piriformis tendon = 3; superior gemellus muscle = 4; obturator internus muscle = 3; obturator internus tendon = 4; inferior gemellus muscle = 3; quadratus femoris muscle = 4. Dynamic ultrasonography may be useful to image the hip deep external rotator musculature for diagnostic purposes and therefore aid in the evaluation of gluteal pain and sciatica. Future work should investigate the reliability and validity of ultrasonography in the evaluation of pathology of these muscles. Copyright © 2016 American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  4. Work and the Perceived Quality of Life. A Final Report.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-12-01

    The experience of work has the potential to substantially influence the perceived quality of life (pQL). The goal of this research program was to...Job satisfaction, life satisfaction, quality of life , quality of work life, unemployment, work-family conflict, job involvement, family involvement, job importance.

  5. Health-related quality of life in pediatric patients with long-standing pancreatitis.

    PubMed

    Pohl, John F; Limbers, Christine A; Kay, Marie; Harman, Annette; Rollins, Michael; Varni, James W

    2012-05-01

    There are limited data on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in pediatric patients with long-standing pancreatitis (including acute relapsing and chronic pancreatitis) using age-appropriate measurement instruments. We evaluated HRQOL in children with long-standing pancreatitis using the PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales by patient self-report as well as parent proxy report. Additionally, patient self-reports and parent proxy reports were completed for the PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale. Across all of the dimensions, significantly impaired HRQOL and higher fatigue were noted for both pediatric patient self-report and parent proxy report in comparison with the matched healthy children samples. Higher fatigue was associated with lower HRQOL. There was moderate to good agreement between patient self-reports and parent proxy reports. Given the impaired HRQOL and fatigue documented in the present study, future studies are needed to determine whether specific factors can modify HRQOL and fatigue in this patient population.

  6. Identifying microturbulence regimes in a TCV discharge making use of physical constraints on particle and heat fluxes

    DOE PAGES

    Mariani, Alberto; Brunner, S.; Dominski, J.; ...

    2018-01-17

    Reducing the uncertainty on physical input parameters derived from experimental measurements is essential towards improving the reliability of gyrokinetic turbulence simulations. This can be achieved by introducing physical constraints. Amongst them, the zero particle flux condition is considered here. A first attempt is also made to match as well the experimental ion/electron heat flux ratio. This procedure is applied to the analysis of a particular Tokamak à Configuration Variable discharge. A detailed reconstruction of the zero particle flux hyper-surface in the multi-dimensional physical parameter space at fixed time of the discharge is presented, including the effect of carbon as themore » main impurity. Both collisionless and collisional regimes are considered. Hyper-surface points within the experimental error bars are found. In conclusion, the analysis is done performing gyrokinetic simulations with the local version of the GENE code, computing the fluxes with a Quasi-Linear (QL) model and validating the QL results with non-linear simulations in a subset of cases.« less

  7. Structure-activity relationship investigation for benzonaphthyridinone derivatives as novel potent Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) irreversible inhibitors.

    PubMed

    Wang, Beilei; Deng, Yuanxin; Chen, Yongfei; Yu, Kailin; Wang, Aoli; Liang, Qianmao; Wang, Wei; Chen, Cheng; Wu, Hong; Hu, Chen; Miao, Weili; Hur, Wooyoung; Wang, Wenchao; Hu, Zhenquan; Weisberg, Ellen L; Wang, Jinhua; Ren, Tao; Wang, Yinsheng; Gray, Nathanael S; Liu, Qingsong; Liu, Jing

    2017-09-08

    Through a structure-based drug design approach, a tricyclic benzonaphthyridinone pharmacophore was used as a starting point for carrying out detailed medicinal structure-activity relationhip (SAR) studies geared toward characterization of a panel of proposed BTK inhibitors, including 6 (QL-X-138), 7 (BMX-IN-1) and 8 (QL47). These studies led to the discovery of the novel potent irreversible BTK inhibitor, compound 18 (CHMFL-BTK-11). Kinetic analysis of compound 18 revealed an irreversible binding efficacy (k inact /K i ) of 0.01 μM -1 s -1 . Compound 18 potently inhibited BTK kinase Y223 auto-phosphorylation (EC 50  < 100 nM), arrested cell cycle in G0/G1 phase, and induced apoptosis in Ramos, MOLM13 and Pfeiffer cells. We believe these features would make 18 a good pharmacological tool for studying BTK-related pathologies. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  8. Identifying microturbulence regimes in a TCV discharge making use of physical constraints on particle and heat fluxes

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

    Mariani, Alberto; Brunner, S.; Dominski, J.

    Reducing the uncertainty on physical input parameters derived from experimental measurements is essential towards improving the reliability of gyrokinetic turbulence simulations. This can be achieved by introducing physical constraints. Amongst them, the zero particle flux condition is considered here. A first attempt is also made to match as well the experimental ion/electron heat flux ratio. This procedure is applied to the analysis of a particular Tokamak à Configuration Variable discharge. A detailed reconstruction of the zero particle flux hyper-surface in the multi-dimensional physical parameter space at fixed time of the discharge is presented, including the effect of carbon as themore » main impurity. Both collisionless and collisional regimes are considered. Hyper-surface points within the experimental error bars are found. In conclusion, the analysis is done performing gyrokinetic simulations with the local version of the GENE code, computing the fluxes with a Quasi-Linear (QL) model and validating the QL results with non-linear simulations in a subset of cases.« less

  9. CALCIUM-INDUCED LIPID PEROXIDATION IS MEDIATED BY RHODNIUS HEME-BINDING PROTEIN (RHBP) AND PREVENTED BY VITELLIN.

    PubMed

    Paes, Marcia C; Silveira, Alan B; Ventura-Martins, Guilherme; Luciano, Monalisa; Coelho, Marsen G P; Todeschini, Adriane R; Bianconi, M Lucia; Atella, Georgia C; Silva-Neto, Mário A C

    2015-10-01

    Lipid peroxidation is promoted by the quasi-lipoxygenase (QL) activity of heme proteins and enhanced by the presence of free calcium. Unlike mammalian plasma, the hemolymph of Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease, contains both a free heme-binding protein (RHBP) and circulating lipoproteins. RHBP binds and prevents the heme groups of the proteins from participating in lipid peroxidation reactions. Herein, we show that despite being bound to RHBP, heme groups promote lipid peroxidation through a calcium-dependent QL reaction. This reaction is readily inhibited by the presence of ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA), the antioxidant butylated hydroxytoluene or micromolar levels of the main yolk phosphoprotein vitellin (Vt). The inhibition of lipid peroxidation is eliminated by the in vitro dephosphorylation of Vt, indicating that this reaction depends on the interaction of free calcium ions with negatively charged phosphoamino acids. Our results demonstrate that calcium chelation mediated by phosphoproteins occurs via an antioxidant mechanism that protects living organisms from lipid peroxidation. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  10. Five novel lanthanide complexes with 2-chloroquinoline-4-carboxylic acid and 1,10-phenanthroline: Crystal structures, molecular spectra, thermal properties and bacteriostatic activities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Ye; Jin, Cheng-Wei; He, Shu-Mei; Ren, Ning; Zhang, Jian-Jun

    2016-12-01

    Five novel lanthanide complexes [Ln2(2-ClQL)6(phen)2(H2O)2]·2H2O (Ln = Pr(1), Sm(2), Eu(3), Ho(4), Er(5)); 2-ClQL: 2-chloroquinoline-4-carboxylate; phen: 1,10-phenanthroline; were synthesized by conventional solution method at room temperature and characterized via elemental analysis, powder x-ray diffraction, Infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectrometry. The results indicate that complexes 1-5 are isostructural, and each Ln3+ ion is eight-coordinated adopting a distorted square antiprismatic molecular geometry. Binuclear complex 1 are stitched together via hydrogen bonding interactions to form 1D chains, and further to form 2D sheets by the π-π interactions. Luminescence investigation reveals that complex 3 displays strong red emission. TG/DTG-FTIR, reveal the thermal decomposition processes and products of title complexes. The bacteriostatic activities of the complexes were evaluated against Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus.

  11. Predicting folding-unfolding transitions in proteins without a priori knowledge of the folded state

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Okan, Osman; Turgut, Deniz; Garcia, Angel; Ozisik, Rahmi

    2013-03-01

    The common computational method of studying folding transitions in proteins is to compare simulated conformations against the folded structure, but this method obviously requires the folded structure to be known beforehand. In the current study, we show that the use of bond orientational order parameter (BOOP) Ql [Steinhardt PJ, Nelson DR, Ronchetti M, Phys. Rev. B 1983, 28, 784] is a viable alternative to the commonly adopted root mean squared distance (RMSD) measure in probing conformational transitions. Replica exchange molecular dynamics simulations of the trp-cage protein (with 20 residues) in TIP-3P water were used to compare BOOP against RMSD. The results indicate that the correspondence between BOOP and RMSD time series become stronger with increasing l. We finally show that robust linear models that incorporate different Ql can be parameterized from a given replica run and can be used to study other replica trajectories. This work is partially supported by NSF DUE-1003574.

  12. Diagonalization of complex symmetric matrices: Generalized Householder reflections, iterative deflation and implicit shifts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Noble, J. H.; Lubasch, M.; Stevens, J.; Jentschura, U. D.

    2017-12-01

    We describe a matrix diagonalization algorithm for complex symmetric (not Hermitian) matrices, A ̲ =A̲T, which is based on a two-step algorithm involving generalized Householder reflections based on the indefinite inner product 〈 u ̲ , v ̲ 〉 ∗ =∑iuivi. This inner product is linear in both arguments and avoids complex conjugation. The complex symmetric input matrix is transformed to tridiagonal form using generalized Householder transformations (first step). An iterative, generalized QL decomposition of the tridiagonal matrix employing an implicit shift converges toward diagonal form (second step). The QL algorithm employs iterative deflation techniques when a machine-precision zero is encountered "prematurely" on the super-/sub-diagonal. The algorithm allows for a reliable and computationally efficient computation of resonance and antiresonance energies which emerge from complex-scaled Hamiltonians, and for the numerical determination of the real energy eigenvalues of pseudo-Hermitian and PT-symmetric Hamilton matrices. Numerical reference values are provided.

  13. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, GRASLAN BRUSH BULLETS 125, 01/13/1983

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-14

    ... r!af"S ;'OP', f· q"l ClnA~LAN E·l.~'" t~~. etc; ':" ·l::n ..... f;' "'J'-o( ~ ,': f:f Il{'f '1"'0 ~"!~.J,ll '''''d. c'aT'1 Ol.! "n rr',:'e Ina"'':O \\.")R",S'-A~. BII.~" t~" j'::;' ...

  14. Asteroid Lightcurve Analysis at Isaac Aznar Observatory Aras De Los Olmos, Valencia, Spain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Macias, Amadeo Aznar

    2015-01-01

    The Isaac Aznar Observatory conducts astrometric and photometric studies of asteroids. This paper contains the photometric results of four asteroids obtained from 2014 April to August. These asteroids were selected from the Collaborative Asteroid Lightcurve Link (CALL) web site: 1088 Mitaka, 2956 Yeomans, 3894 Williamcooke, and (4555) 1974QL.

  15. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, MAB-250, 04/23/1985

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-21

    ... ': (./ _.1" :--- Ic,;d -".n r.. f'. r"~tl11"" rn)(~lH'-t: ,~an.:'\\qPl (17) ~iSl nfpC'tf1.nt q Brand' pr"Ql!--f-rr-ttl'''JI l\\iVl~:l(\\r' rTS-/fll(') J: ~ .. T .~~,~t ~IJ~~ j ...

  16. Quality of life, school backpack weight, and nonspecific low back pain in children and adolescents.

    PubMed

    Macedo, Rosangela B; Coelho-e-Silva, Manuel J; Sousa, Nuno F; Valente-dos-Santos, João; Machado-Rodrigues, Aristides M; Cumming, Sean P; Lima, Alessandra V; Gonçalves, Rui S; Martins, Raul A

    2015-01-01

    To describe the degree of disability, anthropometric variables, quality of life (QoL), and school backpack weight in boys and girls aged 11-17 years. The differences in QoL between those who did or did not report low back pain (LBP) were also analyzed. Eighty-six girls (13.9 ± 1.9 years of age) and 63 boys (13.7 ± 1.7 years of age) participated. LBP was assessed by questionnaire, and disability using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. QoL was assessed by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Multivariate analyses of variance and covariance were used to assess differences between groups. Girls reported higher disability than boys (p = 0.01), and lower QoL in the domains of physical (p < 0.001) and emotional functioning (p < 0.01), psychosocial health (p = 0.02) and physical health summary score (p < 0.001), and on the total PedsQL score (p < 0.01). School backpack weight was similar in both genders (p = 0.61) and in participants with and without LBP (p = 0.15). After adjustments, participants with LBP reported lower physical functioning (p < 0.01), influencing lower physical health summary score (p < 0.01). Girls had higher disability and lower QoL than boys in the domains of physical and emotional functioning, psychosocial health, and physical health summary scores, and on the total PedsQL score; however, similar school backpack weight was reported. Participants with LBP revealed lower physical functioning and physical health summary score, yet had similar school backpack weight to those without LBP. Copyright © 2015 Sociedade Brasileira de Pediatria. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  17. Health related quality of life in Middle Eastern children with beta-thalassemia.

    PubMed

    Caocci, Giovanni; Efficace, Fabio; Ciotti, Francesca; Roncarolo, Maria Grazia; Vacca, Adriana; Piras, Eugenia; Littera, Roberto; Markous, Raji Suleiman Dawood; Collins, Gary Stephen; Ciceri, Fabio; Mandelli, Franco; Marktel, Sarah; La Nasa, Giorgio

    2012-06-22

    Thalassemia is a common disorder worldwide with a predominant incidence in Mediterranean countries, North Africa, the Middle East, India, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. Whilst substantial progress has been made towards the improvement of Health related quality of life (HRQoL) in western countries, scarce evidence-based data exists on HRQol of thalassemia children and adolescents living in developing countries. We studied 60 thalassemia children from Middle Eastern countries with a median age of 10 years (range 5 to 17 years). HRQoL was assessed with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0. The Questionnaire was completed at baseline by all patients and their parents. The agreement between child-self and parent-proxy HRQoL reports and the relationship between HRQoL profiles and socio-demographic and clinical factors were investigated. The scores of parents were generally lower than those of their children for Emotional Functioning (mean 75 vs 85; p = 0.002), Psychosocial Health Summary (mean 70.3 vs 79.1; p = 0.015) and the Total Summary Score (mean 74.3 vs 77.7 p = 0.047). HRQoL was not associated with ferritin levels, hepatomegaly or frequency of transfusions or iron chelation therapy. Multivariate analysis showed that a delayed start of iron chelation had a negative impact on total PedsQL scores of both children (p = 0.046) and their parents (p = 0.007). The PedsQL 4.0 is a useful tool for the measurement of HRQoL in pediatric thalassemia patients. This study shows that delayed start of iron chelation has a negative impact on children's HRQoL.

  18. Quality of life improves in children and adolescents during a community-based overweight and obesity treatment.

    PubMed

    Mollerup, Pernille M; Nielsen, Tenna R H; Bøjsøe, Christine; Kloppenborg, Julie T; Baker, Jennifer L; Holm, Jens-Christian

    2017-06-01

    The quality of life is compromised in children and adolescents with overweight or obesity. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the quality of life improves during a community-based overweight and obesity treatment, and whether improvements depend on reductions in the degree of obesity. Quality of life was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 in children and adolescents aged 3-18 years with overweight or obesity [body mass index (BMI) ≥85th percentile] upon entry into a community-based chronic care overweight and obesity treatment based upon The Children's Obesity Clinic's Treatment protocol, and upon follow-up after 10-30 months of treatment. Height and weight were measured at each consultation and converted into a BMI standard deviation score (SDS). Upon entry, 477 children (212 boys) completed a PedsQL, and 317 (143 boys) completed another PedsQL after a median of 13 months of treatment. Quality of life improved (p < 0.001), regardless of sex, age, and pubertal development stage upon entry (p ≥ 0.108). Greater reductions in BMI SDS and high socioeconomic status were associated with greater improvements in the quality of life (p ≤ 0.047). However, improvements also occurred in children and adolescents with low socioeconomic status or who increased their BMI SDS (p < 0.001). Improvements in quality of life occurred in children and adolescents during a community-based overweight and obesity treatment, even in children and adolescents who increased their BMI SDS. Thus, improvements may be due to the treatment itself and not exclusively to reductions in BMI SDS. Clinicaltrials.gov, ID-no.: NCT02013843.

  19. Quality of life and symptom prevalence as reported by children with cancer in Lebanon.

    PubMed

    Abu-Saad Huijer, Huda; Sagherian, Knar; Tamim, Hani

    2013-12-01

    To date, there are no studies on quality of life (QoL) and symptom prevalence reported by pediatric oncology patients in Lebanon. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the QoL, symptom prevalence and symptom management among a sample of pediatric oncology patients. The study design was cross-sectional. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) cancer module and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale were administered in Arabic using face-to-face interviews to a convenience sample of 85 pediatric cancer patients (7-18 years) at a tertiary hospital in Lebanon. The mean age of the study group was 12.5 years with leukemia being the most common cancer (43.5%). The lowest scores on the PedsQL subscales were in nausea (score = 64.82; SD = 25.76) and worry (score = 68.14; SD = 30.07), thus indicating more problems in these areas. A comparison based on age showed significant differences in pain and hurt, nausea, and worry. In children (7-12 years), lack of appetite, pain, and nausea were mostly prevalent whereas adolescents (13-18 years) experienced lack of energy, irritability, and pain. In both age groups, pain and nausea were the most frequently treated symptoms. Overall, the participants had good health-related QoL as indicated by most of the PedsQL subscales. Symptom management was found to be inadequate and in some cases ineffective. More attention should be given to the management of symptoms in general using pharmacological and non-pharmacological techniques. Of particular importance is the importance of providing psychological support to alleviate symptom burden and improve QoL. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. [Validity and reliability of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 Generic Core Scales in Chinese children and adolescents].

    PubMed

    Chen, Yu-Ming; He, Li-Ping; Mai, Jin-Cheng; Hao, Yuan-Tao; Xiong, Li-Hua; Chen, Wei-Qing; Wu, Jiang-Nan

    2008-06-01

    To evaluate the reliability and validity of parent proxy-report scales of Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0) Generic Core Scales, the Chinese Version. 3493 school students aged 6-18 years were recruited using multistage cluster sampling method. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the above-mentioned PedsQL 4.0 scales. The internal consistency was assessed, using Cronbach's a coefficient, while its validity was tested through correlation analysis, t-test and exploratory factor analysis. The internal consistency reliability for Total Scale Score (Cronbach's alpha = 0.90), Physical Health Summary Score (alpha= 0.81), and Psychosocial Health Summary Score (alpha= 0.89) were excellent. Six major factors were extracted by factor analysis which basically matched the designed structure of the original version accounting for nearly 66% of the variance. The total Scale Score significantly decreased by 3.5 to 13.3 (P < 0.05) in children and adolescents who had diseases including cold, skin hypersensitiveness, food allergy, courbature or arthralgia, breathlessness with a frequency of 6 times or more per year or had asthma as compared to those with lower frequency (< or = 5 times/y) of the diseases or without asthma. We found moderate to high correlations between items and the subscales. Correlation coefficients ranged between 0.45 to 0.84 (P < 0.01). The reliability and validity of the parent proxy-report scales of PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales of the Chinese Version were as good as the original version. Our findings suggested that the scales could be applied to evaluate the health-related quality of life in childhood children in similar Chinese regions to Guangzhou.

  1. Health-related quality of life in young adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Iran: reliability and validity of the Persian translation of the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version.

    PubMed

    Pakpour, Amir H; Zeidi, Isa Mohammadi; Hashemi, Fariba; Saffari, Mohsen; Burri, Andrea

    2013-01-01

    The objective of the present study was to determine the reliability and validity of the Persian translation of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™) 4.0 Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version in an Iranian sample of young adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). One hundred ninety-seven young adult patients with RA completed the 23-item PedsQL™ and the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36). Disease activity based on Disease Activity Score 28 was also measured. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability, as well as construct, discriminant, and convergent validity, were tested. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to verify the original factor structure of the PedsQL™. Also, responsiveness to change in PedsQL™ scores over time was assessed. Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from α = 0.82 to α = 0.91. Test-retest reproducibility was satisfactory for all scales and the total scale score. The PedsQL proved good convergent validity with the SF-36. The PedsQL distinguished well between young adult patients and healthy young adults and also RA groups with different comorbidities. The CFA did not confirm the original four-factor model, instead, analyses revealed a best-fitting five-factor model for the PedsQL™ Young Adult Version. Repeated measures analysis of variance indicated that the PedsQL scale scores for young adults increased significantly over time. The Persian translation of the PedsQL™ 4.0 Generic Core Scales Young Adult Version demonstrated good psychometric properties in young adult patients with RA and can be recommended for the use in RA research in Iran.

  2. A cluster randomized pilot trial of a tailored worksite smoking cessation intervention targeting Hispanic/Latino construction workers: Intervention development and research design.

    PubMed

    Asfar, Taghrid; Caban-Martinez, Alberto J; McClure, Laura A; Ruano-Herreria, Estefania C; Sierra, Danielle; Gilford Clark, G; Samano, Daniel; Dietz, Noella A; Ward, Kenneth D; Arheart, Kristopher L; Lee, David J

    2018-04-01

    Construction workers have the highest smoking rate among all occupations (39%). Hispanic/Latino workers constitute a large and increasing group in the US construction industry (over 2.6 million; 23% of all workers). These minority workers have lower cessation rates compared to other groups due to their limited access to cessation services, and lack of smoking cessation interventions adapted to their culture and work/life circumstances. Formative research was conducted to create an intervention targeting Hispanic/Latino construction workers. This paper describes the intervention development and the design, methods, and data analysis plans for an ongoing cluster pilot two-arm randomized controlled trial comparing an Enhanced Care worksite cessation program to Standard Care. Fourteen construction sites will be randomized to either Enhanced Care or Standard Care and 126 participants (63/arm) will be recruited. In both arms, recruitment and intervention delivery occur around "food trucks" that regularly visit the construction sites. Participants at Enhanced Care sites will receive the developed intervention consisting of a single face-to-face group counseling session, 2 phone calls, and a fax referral to Florida tobacco quitline (QL). Participants at Standard Care sites will receive a fax referral to the QL. Both groups will receive eight weeks of nicotine replacement treatment and two follow-up assessments at three and six months. Feasibility outcomes are estimated recruitment yield, barriers to delivering the intervention onsite, and rates of adherence/compliance to the intervention, follow-ups, and QL enrollment. Efficacy outcomes are point-prevalence and prolonged abstinence rates at six month follow-up confirmed by saliva cotinine <15 ng/ml. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  3. The impact of a creative play intervention on satisfaction with nursing care: A mixed-methods study.

    PubMed

    Teksoz, Emel; Bilgin, Ibrahim; Madzwamuse, Suna Eryigit; Oscakci, Ayse Ferda

    2017-01-01

    Hospitalisation can lead to distress for children. Creative play may reduce the adverse effects of hospitalisation on children, as it could lead to children associating satisfaction and fun with their hospital experience. The aim of the current study is to investigate the impact of a creative play intervention on service-care satisfaction measurements of children and their parents. A mixed-methods design consisting of quantitative pre/post-assessments and qualitative interviews was used within this study. The research was conducted with 30 children (n experimental group = 15; n control group = 15). Their parents (n = 30) and their nurse practitioners (n = 20) were also contacted in order to capture their reflections of this intervention which included creative activities with unused clean medical materials. Child participants completed the Patient's Nursing Care Perception Tool and their parents completed the PedsQL Health Care Satisfaction Tool. The two groups did not differ in relation to the Patients' Nursing Care Satisfaction Tool (PNCST) (t(28): 0.348, p = .730) and the PedsQL (t(28): -0.189, p = .852) scores at Time 1 before the intervention; however, significant differences were observed at the end at Time 2 (PNCST: t(28): -11.63, p < .001; PedsQL: t(28): -12.416, p < .001). In qualitative interviews, nurses indicated that their play skills with children had been enhanced by this intervention. Family attendants reported that the intervention improved the nurse-child relationship and their satisfaction with care. The results have shown that creative play intervention are a feasible nursing intervention which has a strong potential to be effective on child patients' and their attendants' satisfaction with care services. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. Perceived Motor Competence Differs From Actual Performance in 8-Year-Old Neonatal ECMO Survivors.

    PubMed

    Toussaint, Leontien C C; van der Cammen-van Zijp, Monique H M; Janssen, Anjo J; Tibboel, Dick; van Heijst, Arno F; IJsselstijn, Hanneke

    2016-03-01

    To assess perceived motor competence, social competence, self-worth, health-related quality of life, and actual motor performancein 8-year-old survivors of neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). In a prospective nationwide study, 135 children completed the extended version of the "athletic competence" domain of the Self Perception Profile for Children (SPPC) called the m-CBSK (Motor supplement of the Competentie BelevingsSchaal voor Kinderen) to assess perceived motor competence, the SPPC, and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), andwere tested with the Movement Assessment Battery for Children. SD scores (SDS) were used to compare with the norm. The mean (SD) SDS for perceived motor competence, social competence, and self-worth were all significantly higher than the norm: 0.18 (0.94), P = .03; 0.35 (1.03), P < .001; and 0.32 (1.08), P < .001, respectively. The total PedsQL score was significantly below the norm: mean (SD) SDS: -1.26 (1.53), P < .001. Twenty-two percent of children had actual motor problems. The SDS m-CBSK and actual motor performance did not correlate (r = 0.12; P = .17). The SDS m-CBSK significantly correlated with the athletic competence domain of the SPPC (r = 0.63; P < .001). Eight-year-old ECMO survivors feel satisfied with their motor- and social competence, despite impaired PedsQL scores and motor problems. Because motor problems in ECMO survivorsdeteriorate throughout childhood, clinicians should be aware that these patients may tend to "overrate" their actual motor performance. Education andstrict monitoring of actual motor performanceare important to enable timelyintervention. Copyright © 2016 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

  5. Associations of Gross Motor Delay, Behavior, and Quality of Life in Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder.

    PubMed

    Hedgecock, James B; Dannemiller, Lisa A; Shui, Amy M; Rapport, Mary Jane; Katz, Terry

    2018-04-01

    Young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have gross motor delays that may accentuate problem daytime behavior and health-related quality of life (QoL). The objective of this study was to describe the degree of gross motor delays in young children with ASD and associations of gross motor delays with problem daytime behavior and QoL. The primary hypothesis was that Gross motor delays significantly modifies the associations between internalizing or externalizing problem daytime behavior and QoL. This study used a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis. Data from 3253 children who were 2 to 6 years old and who had ASD were obtained from the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network and analyzed using unadjusted and adjusted linear regression. Measures included the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, 2nd edition, gross motor v-scale score (VABS-GM) (for Gross motor delays), the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) (for Problem daytime behavior), and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) (for QoL). The mean VABS-GM was 12.12 (SD = 2.2), representing performance at or below the 16th percentile. After adjustment for covariates, the internalizing CBCL t score decreased with increasing VABS-GM (β = - 0.64 SE = 0.12). Total and subscale PedsQL scores increased with increasing VABS-GM (for total score: β = 1.79 SE = 0.17; for subscale score: β = 0.9-2.66 SE = 0.17-0.25). CBCL internalizing and externalizing t scores decreased with increasing PedsQL total score (β = - 0.39 SE = 0.01; β = - 0.36 SE = 0.01). The associations between CBCL internalizing or externalizing t scores and PedsQL were significantly modified by VABSGM (β = - 0.026 SE = 0.005]; β = - 0.019 SE = 0.007). The study lacked ethnic and socioeconomic diversity. Measures were collected via parent report without accompanying clinical assessment. Cross motor delay was independently associated with Problem daytime behavior and QoL in children with ASD. Gross

  6. A Framework for General Education Assessment: Assessing Information Literacy and Quantitative Literacy with ePortfolios

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hubert, David A.; Lewis, Kati J.

    2014-01-01

    This essay presents the findings of an authentic and holistic assessment, using a random sample of one hundred student General Education ePortfolios, of two of Salt Lake Community College's (SLCC) college-wide learning outcomes: quantitative literacy (QL) and information literacy (IL). Performed by four faculty from biology, humanities, and…

  7. 76 FR 51984 - Agency Forms Undergoing Paperwork Reduction Act Review

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-08-19

    ... promotional activities and permission to extract de-identified QL call volume data from the National Quitline Data Warehouse (NQDW, OMB No. 0920-0856, exp. 7/31/2012). Information will be transmitted to CDC on a... client intake data, i.e., information obtained from clients when they request tobacco cessation services...

  8. Influence of slaughter weight and stress gene genotype on the water-holding capacity and protein gel characteristics of three porcine muscles.

    PubMed

    Sutton, D S; Ellis, M; Lan, Y; McKeith, F K; Wilson, E R

    1997-06-01

    The longissimus lumborum, gluteus medius, and the triceps brachii muscles from 40 animals were used to evaluate the effect of stress gene genotype (non-mutant, NN and mono-mutant, Nn) and live weight at slaughter (110 kg and 140 kg) on the processing quality of fresh pork. The 45 minute and ultimate pH measurements did not differ between genotypes. Total percent protein was not different between samples taken from NN or Nn pigs, nor were there any differences in salt-soluble protein. The M. longissimus lumborum from Nn pigs possessed lower water-holding capacity values and lost greater amounts of water upon cooking. In addition, Nn pigs had lower subjective color and firmness scores which suggest a higher incidence of pale, soft and exudative pork. Slaughter weight did not affect total protein, salt-soluble protein, Minolta L(∗), a(∗) and b(∗) values or subjective color, firmness and marbling scores. Back fat thickness and loineye area increased as slaughter weight increased. Overall, this study suggested that Nn pigs have reduced water retention properties which may result in lower yields in processed meat items. Slaughter weight had limited effects on the processing quality of meat from NN or Nn pigs. There were no interactions of significance between stress gene genotype and slaughter weight, suggesting that the differences in muscle quality and functional properties between NN and Nn pigs are maintained over the slaughter weights used in this study.

  9. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, ATRA-5, 04/17/1990

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-19

    ... '.. 1.1 I , i: i ":11 ' ~:, (f··.,~r! 11 c~l(n (>:"I.pi 1 I ~:\\rt·.·). yn·lI QlIJ ... For mi x inq instruc:tiorls ~ 5f.·~E:·~ th~~ "t'li xing Instruc.tinn::;" se(:ti(]n of tllis l.abel. ...

  10. Reliability and Validity of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory with Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Viecili, Michelle A.; Weiss, Jonathan A.

    2015-01-01

    The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) measures health-related quality of life, a growing area of research, particularly among individuals with disabilities. This research is necessary to fully understand the varied needs of the population and, ultimately, ensure that those needs are being met. The current study assessed the reliability…

  11. Quality of Life and its Determinants in a Multi-Center Cohort of Children with Alagille Syndrome

    PubMed Central

    Kamath, Binita M.; Chen, Zhen; Romero, Rene; Fredericks, Emily M.; Alonso, Estella M.; Arnon, Ronen; Heubi, James; Hertel, Paula M.; Karpen, Saul J.; Loomes, Kathleen M.; Murray, Karen F.; Rosenthal, Philip; Schwarz, Kathleen B.; Subbarao, Girish; Teckman, Jeffrey H.; Turmelle, Yumirle P.; Wang, Kasper S.; Sherker, Averell H.; Sokol, Ronald J.; Magee, John C.

    2015-01-01

    Objectives To assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children with Alagille syndrome (ALGS) in comparison with healthy and other liver disease cohorts, and to identify determinants of HRQOL in patients with ALGS. Study design Within the Childhood Liver Disease Research Network prospective study of cholestasis, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL) questionnaires were administered to 70 ALGS, 95 alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency (A1ATD) and 49 children with other causes of chronic intrahepatic cholestasis (IHC) aged 5-18 years. Parent-proxy PedsQL scores were recorded for children aged 2-18 (98 ALGS, 123 A1ATD, 68 IHC). Results Mean ages and total bilirubin (mg/dL) were: ALGS 9.4y; 4.4, A1ATD 9.5y; 0.7, IHC 10.3y; 2.9. ALGS child PedsQL scores were lower than in healthy children and children with A1ATD (mean 73 vs. 83 p=0.001). Children with ALGS and IHC were similar, except in physical scores (73 vs. 79 p=0.05). ALGS parents perceived their children to have worse HRQOL than A1ATD (p<=0.001) and marginally lower compared with IHC. Univariate analysis revealed ALGS child-reported scores were positively associated with better growth and inversely with total bilirubin. Growth failure, elevated INR and an intra-cardiac defect were predictive of poor parental scores (p<=0.05). In multivariate analysis, only weight z-score remained significant for child and parent-reported scores. Conclusions HRQOL is impaired in ALGS compared with healthy and children with A1ATD, similar to IHC and is associated with growth failure, which is a potentially treatable cause of impaired HRQOL. PMID:26059338

  12. Development and validation of the Pediatric Stroke Quality of Life Measure.

    PubMed

    Fiume, Andrea; Deveber, Gabrielle; Jang, Shu-Hyun; Fuller, Colleen; Viner, Shani; Friefeld, Sharon

    2018-06-01

    To develop and validate a disease-specific parent proxy and child quality of life (QoL) measure for patients aged 2 to 18 years surviving cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) and arterial ischaemic stroke (AIS). Utilizing qualitative and quantitative methods, we developed a 75-item Pediatric Stroke Quality of Life Measure (PSQLM) questionnaire. We mailed the PSQLM and a standardized generic QoL measure, Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), to 353 families. Stroke type, age at stroke, and neurological outcome on the Pediatric Stroke Outcome Measure were documented. We calculated the internal consistency, validity, and reliability of the PSQLM. The response rate was 29%, yielding a sample of 101 patients (mean age 9y 9mo [SD 4.30]; 69 AIS [68.3%], 32 CSVT [31.7%]). The internal consistency of the PSQLM was high (Cronbach's α=0.94-0.97). Construct validity for the PSQLM was moderately strong (r=0.3-0.4; p<0.003) and, as expected, correlation with the PedsQL was moderate, suggesting the PSQLM operationalizes QoL distinct from the PedsQL. Test-retest reliability at 2 weeks was very good (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0.85-0.95; 95% confidence interval 0.83-0.97) and good agreement was established between parent and child report (ICC 0.63-0.76). The PSQLM demonstrates sound psychometric properties. Further research will seek to increase its clinical utility by reducing length and establishing responsiveness for descriptive and longitudinal evaluative assessment. A pediatric stroke-specific quality of life (QoL) measurement tool for assessments based on perceptions of importance and satisfaction. Moderate-to-high reliability and validity established for a new clinical scale evaluating QoL among children with stroke. Perceived QoL measured using the Pediatric Stroke Quality of Life Measure appears lower in children with neurological impairment. © 2018 Mac Keith Press.

  13. Characterizing Decisional Conflict for Caregivers of Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Without Tonsillar Hypertrophy.

    PubMed

    Manning, Amy M; Duggins, Angela L; Tiemeyer, Karin A; Mullen, Lisa A; Crisalli, Joseph A; Cohen, Aliza P; Ishman, Stacey L

    2018-05-15

    The goals of this study were to (1) evaluate the degree of decisional conflict (DC) experienced by caregivers of children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) without tonsillar hypertrophy; and (2) describe the association between DC, quality of life (QOL), and OSA severity. This study comprised children evaluated in the multidisciplinary upper airway center at the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center from December 2014 to May 2016. Caregivers were asked to complete surveys (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 [PedsQL], OSA-18, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Family Impact Questionnaire, Decisional Conflict Scale, CollaboRATE scale, and SURE questionnaire) during a clinic visit. Polysomnography data were collected. Analysis included Kruskal-Wallis, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and regression testing. Caregivers of 76 children participated; 16 (21.1%) had high DC. There were no significant differences in demographics between those with low and high DC; the low DC group had a higher obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (13.2 versus 12.3 events/h; P = .013). Overall and disease-specific QOL, sleepiness, family impact scores, and DC did not differ by OSA severity except for the PedsQL physical subcategory ( P = .02). DC was associated with the total PedsQL ( P = .043) on univariate regression; however, this did not persist ( P = .61) after controlling for demographic variables. DC scores correlated well with CollaboRATE and SURE throughout the analysis ( P < .001). The proportion of caregivers of children with OSA without tonsillar hypertrophy who experienced a high level of DC regarding their child's treatment was 21.1%. Neither DC nor OSA severity was related to QOL in children with OSA. The briefer SURE or CollaboRATE scales were adequate tools to measure DC in these children. © 2018 American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

  14. Health-related Quality of Life in Children With Prune-belly Syndrome and Their Caregivers.

    PubMed

    Arlen, Angela M; Kirsch, Susan S; Seidel, Natan E; Garcia-Roig, Michael; Smith, Edwin A; Kirsch, Andrew J

    2016-01-01

    To compare health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with prune-belly syndrome (PBS) and their caregivers to healthy controls, as children and adolescents with PBS face numerous potential physical and psychosocial challenges. Study participants completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Generic Core Scales (PedsQL) 4.0 generic core scales (children) or Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (Q-LES-Q-SF) (caregivers) in an online, anonymous format. The PedsQL 4.0 is a 23-item, age-adjusted, validated questionnaire that assesses physical, emotional, social, and school functioning in pediatric patients. The Q-LES-Q-SF is a validated, self-report measure that assesses various areas of daily functioning in adults. PedsQL 4.0 was completed by 32 children with PBS. Individual physical (66.3 ± 20 vs 84.4 ± 17.3; P < .0001), emotional (68.4 ± 23.4 vs 80.9 ± 19.6; P < .01), social (63.1 ± 21.3 vs 87.4 ± 17.2; P  <  .0001), and school (53 ± 21.7 vs 78.6 ± 20.5; P < .0001) functioning scales were all significantly lower than in healthy children. Nineteen caregivers completed the Q-LES-Q-SF. Caregivers had a mean raw score of 54.8 ± 9.6, which was significantly lower (P  =  .02) than the comparative healthy adult cohort (59.8 ± 11.3). PBS profoundly impacts HRQoL in children, negatively affecting physical, emotional, social, and school functioning. Caregivers of PBS patients also report an overall lower quality of life, highlighting the challenges that families with chronically ill children often face. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Effects of Pilates exercises on health-related quality of life in individuals with juvenile idiopathic arthritis.

    PubMed

    Mendonça, Tânia M; Terreri, Maria T; Silva, Carlos H; Neto, Morun Bernardino; Pinto, Rogério M; Natour, Jamil; Len, Claudio A

    2013-11-01

    To determine the effects of Pilates exercises on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in individuals with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Randomized, prospective, single-blind trial. Outpatient clinic of pediatric rheumatology and the rehabilitation department. Children (N=50) with JIA according to the International League of Associations for Rheumatology criteria. Participants were randomly assigned into 2 groups. In group I (n=25), the participants were given a conventional exercise program for 6 months. Patients in group II (n=25) participated in a Pilates exercise program for 6 months. The primary outcome measure was HRQOL, as measured by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory version 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0). The secondary outcome measures provided an estimate of the clinical relevance of the primary outcome results and included joint pain intensity (according to a 10-cm visual analog scale), disability (according to the Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire), joint status (using the Pediatric Escola Paulista de Medicina Range of Motion Scale), and the total PedsQL 4.0 score. All participants completed the study. The scores of the PedsQL 4.0 differed significantly between groups, indicating that Pilates exercises increased these scores when compared with the conventional exercise program. Group II participants showed significant improvements in the 10-cm visual analog scale-joint pain, Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire, and Pediatric Escola Paulista de Medicina Range of Motion Scale. The use of Pilates exercises had a positive physical and psychosocial impact on HRQOL in individuals with JIA. Future multicenter studies with a follow-up beyond the period of treatment using more objective parameters will be useful to support the results of the present study. Copyright © 2013 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Measuring health-related quality of life in Greek children: psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory(TM) 4.0 Generic Core Scales.

    PubMed

    Gkoltsiou, Konstantina; Dimitrakaki, Christine; Tzavara, Chara; Papaevangelou, Vassiliki; Varni, James W; Tountas, Yannis

    2008-03-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory(TM) 4.0 (PedsQL(TM) 4.0) as a population health outcome measure. After cultural linguistic validation, a cross-sectional study with the participation of 645 children (8-12 years old) and their primary caregivers was conducted in a nation-wide representative school-based sample to evaluate the psychometric properties of the measure. All PedsQL 4.0 scales showed satisfactory reliability, with Cronbach's alpha exceeding 0.70--except in self-reported Physical Functioning (alpha = 0.65). Test-retest stability intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were above 0.60 in all subscales. No floor effects were detected in either the self-report or parent proxy versions. Ceiling effects ranged from 2.2% (self-report Total Score) to 31.1% (parent-report Social Functioning). Poor to moderate agreement between self report and proxy report was observed, especially for the younger age groups of children. Impact of gender, health status, and family affluence status were detected, as hypothesised from previous bibliography, with girls reporting lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than boys on the Emotional Functioning subscale, healthy children scoring significantly higher on all scales than those with chronic illnesses, and lower socioeconomic groups scoring significantly lower than higher socioeconomic groups. Factor analysis showed mainly comparable results with the original version. Present results support the reliability and validity of the PedsQL 4.0 Greek version. The instrument could be a valuable tool in HRQOL measurement in school health care settings and population-based studies in Greek-speaking children, though it should be stressed that when possible, the child should be considered the first informant of his/her HRQOL.

  17. The influence of diet and/or exercise and parental compliance on health-related quality of life in obese children.

    PubMed

    Yackobovitch-Gavan, Michal; Nagelberg, Nessia; Phillip, Moshe; Ashkenazi-Hoffnung, Liat; Hershkovitz, Eli; Shalitin, Shlomit

    2009-06-01

    Recent findings of a direct association of obesity and impaired health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children suggest a need for early weight-management interventions that address psychosocial issues and lifestyle. Our aim was to compare the effects of exercise, diet, or diet + exercise on HRQOL in obese children. We hypothesized that HRQOL will improve as a result of the weight-loss intervention and will be correlated with the amount of weight loss achieved by each of the intervention groups. A total of 162 children aged 6 to 11 years with a body mass index (BMI) exceeding the 95th percentile were randomly allocated to a 12-week regimens of diet, exercise, or diet + exercise. Weight, height, and percent fat mass were measured, and parents completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 at baseline and at the end of the intervention. The reductions in BMI were significantly greater in the diet and diet + exercise groups than in the exercise group. Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory scores improved significantly, with no differences among the groups. A greater reduction in BMI occurred in children whose parents completed the PedsQL at baseline (n = 105) than in children whose parents did not (n = 15) (-1.8 +/- 1.3 vs -1.0 +/- 1.5; P = .048) and in children whose parents completed the PedsQL at the end of the intervention (n = 73) than in children whose parents did not (n = 47) (-2.0 +/- 1.3 vs -1.3 +/- 1.3; P = .013). Weight-management programs that promote a healthy eating and physical activity can serve as an effective tool to improve the low HRQOL of obese children. Parental compliance is an important factor and may be assessed by the parents' cooperativeness in completing questionnaires.

  18. The Impact of Short-Term Video Games on Performance among Children with Developmental Delays: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    PubMed Central

    Hsieh, Ru-Lan; Lee, Wen-Chung; Lin, Jui-Hsiang

    2016-01-01

    This prospective, randomized controlled study investigated the effects of short-term interactive video game playing among children with developmental delays participating in traditional rehabilitation treatment at a rehabilitation clinic. One hundred and one boys and 46 girls with a mean age of 5.8 years (range: 3 to 12 years) were enrolled in this study. All patients were confirmed to suffer from developmental delays, and were participating in traditional rehabilitation treatment. Children participated in two periods of 4 weeks each, group A being offered intervention of eight 30-minute sessions of interactive video games in the first period, and group B in the second, in addition to the traditional rehabilitation treatment. The physical, psychosocial, and total health of the children was periodically assessed using the parent-reported Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Generic Core Scales (PedsQL); and the children’s upper extremity and physical function, transfer and basic mobility, sports and physical functioning, and global functioning were assessed using the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument. Parental impact was evaluated using the PedsQL-Family Impact Module for family function, PedsQL-Health Satisfaction questionnaire for parents’ satisfaction with their children’s care and World Health Organization-Quality of Life-Brief Version for quality of life. Compared with the baseline, significant improvements of physical function were observed in both groups (5.6 ± 19.5, p = 0.013; 4.7 ± 13.8, p = 0.009) during the intervention periods. No significant improvement of psychosocial health, functional performance, or family impact was observed in children with developmental delays. Short-term interactive video game play in conjunction with traditional rehabilitation treatment improved the physical health of children with developmental delays. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02184715 PMID:26983099

  19. The Impact of Short-Term Video Games on Performance among Children with Developmental Delays: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

    PubMed

    Hsieh, Ru-Lan; Lee, Wen-Chung; Lin, Jui-Hsiang

    2016-01-01

    This prospective, randomized controlled study investigated the effects of short-term interactive video game playing among children with developmental delays participating in traditional rehabilitation treatment at a rehabilitation clinic. One hundred and one boys and 46 girls with a mean age of 5.8 years (range: 3 to 12 years) were enrolled in this study. All patients were confirmed to suffer from developmental delays, and were participating in traditional rehabilitation treatment. Children participated in two periods of 4 weeks each, group A being offered intervention of eight 30-minute sessions of interactive video games in the first period, and group B in the second, in addition to the traditional rehabilitation treatment. The physical, psychosocial, and total health of the children was periodically assessed using the parent-reported Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory-Generic Core Scales (PedsQL); and the children's upper extremity and physical function, transfer and basic mobility, sports and physical functioning, and global functioning were assessed using the Pediatric Outcomes Data Collection Instrument. Parental impact was evaluated using the PedsQL-Family Impact Module for family function, PedsQL-Health Satisfaction questionnaire for parents' satisfaction with their children's care and World Health Organization-Quality of Life-Brief Version for quality of life. Compared with the baseline, significant improvements of physical function were observed in both groups (5.6 ± 19.5, p = 0.013; 4.7 ± 13.8, p = 0.009) during the intervention periods. No significant improvement of psychosocial health, functional performance, or family impact was observed in children with developmental delays. Short-term interactive video game play in conjunction with traditional rehabilitation treatment improved the physical health of children with developmental delays. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02184715.

  20. Health-related quality of life experienced by children with chromosomal abnormalities and congenital heart defects.

    PubMed

    Garcia Guerra, Gonzalo; Joffe, Ari R; Robertson, Charlene M T; Atallah, Joseph; Alton, Gwen; Sauve, Reg S; Dinu, Irina A; Ross, David B; Rebeyka, Ivan M

    2014-03-01

    Long-term outcomes are fundamental in advising parents about the potential future of their children with congenital heart disease (CHD). No published reports have described the health-related quality of life (HRQL) experienced by children with chromosomal abnormalities who had surgery in early infancy for CHD. A study was undertaken to assess HRQL among children with chromosomal abnormalities and CHD. The authors hypothesized that these children have a worse HRQL than healthy children or a cohort of children matched for CHD diagnosis. Infants with chromosomal abnormalities undergoing cardiac surgery for CHD at 6 weeks of age or younger at the Stollery Children's Hospital between July 2000 and June 2005 were included in the study. The HRQL of these infants was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales completed by their parents at a 4-year follow-up evaluation. The study compared the scores for 16 children with normative data. The children with chromosomal abnormalities and CHD had significantly lower mean total PedsQL (71.3 vs. 87.3; p < 0.0001), Psychosocial Summary (70.3 vs. 86.1; p < 0.0001), and Physical Summary (74.3 vs. 89.2; p = 0.0006) scores. Compared with the matched children, those with chromosomal abnormalities had a significantly lower median total PedsQL (75.0 vs. 84.6; p = 0.03), Physical Summary (79.5 vs. 96.9; p = 0.007), and School Functioning (68.5 vs. 83.0; p = 0.03) scores. A better understanding of the mechanisms and determinants of HRQL in these children has the potential to yield important implications for clinical practice including clarity for treatment decision making as well as determination of targeted supports and services to meet the needs of these children and their families differentially.

  1. The gene road to royalty--differential expression of hydroxylating genes in the mandibular glands of the honeybee.

    PubMed

    Malka, Osnat; Karunker, Iris; Yeheskel, Adva; Morin, Shai; Hefetz, Abraham

    2009-10-01

    The advances in honeybee sociogenomics have paved the way for the study of social communication processes at the gene level, in particular the expression of caste-specific pheromones. The queen honeybee mandibular pheromone provides an excellent model system, in that biosynthesis of the hydroxylating fatty acid caste-specific pheromone appears to be reduced to a single chemical hydroxylation step of stearic acid. Queens are typified by omega-1-hydroxylation, as opposed to the worker-typical omega-hydroxylation. We hypothesized that this bifurcation is the consequence of differential expression of caste-specific genes that code for fatty acid-hydroxylating enzymes from the cytochrome P450 (CYP) family. Bioinformatics studies disclosed two candidate proteins CYP4AA1 and CYP18A1. We thus investigated the expression of these genes in the mandibular glands of queens, and of queenright (QR) and queenless (QL) workers. The real-time PCR results revealed that CYP4AA1 (omega-hydroxylation) was expressed at high levels in both QR and QL workers, whereas in queens its expression was negligible. The expression of CYP18A1 (omega-1-hydroxylation), on the other hand, was high in the queen's glands and negligible in those of QR workers. In QL workers, however, the expression of CYP18A1 was considerably elevated and significantly greater than in QR workers. Three-dimensional structural models constructed for these enzymes demonstrate differences in the active site between CYP18A1 and CYP4AA1, in line with their differential catalytic specificity. The fact that queen pheromone plasticity can be tracked all the way to gene expression provides a new insight into the process of caste differentiation and the accompanying social communication.

  2. Determination of patulin in fruit juices using HPLC-DAD and GC-MSD techniques.

    PubMed

    Moukas, Athanasios; Panagiotopoulou, Vasiliki; Markaki, Panagiota

    2008-08-15

    A high performance liquid chromatography with a diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD) and a gas chromatography with a mass spectrometer (GC-MSD) are described for the determination of patulin (PAT) in apple juice. The limits of detection (DL) and quantification (QL) for the HPLC-DAD and GC-MSD method were found to be (DL=0.23μgkg(-1) QL=1.2μgkg(-1)) and (DL=5.8μgkg(-1) and QL=13.8μgkg(-1)), respectively. The recovery factors for HPLC-DAD and GC-MSD were found to be 99.5% (RSD%=0.73) and 41% (RSD%=10.03), respectively. The HPLC-DAD method was used to determine the occurrence of PAT in 90 samples of fruit juices. Results revealed the presence of PAT in 100% of the samples examined. The mean values of PAT in concentrated fruit juices and in the commercial fruit juices collected from the Greek market were found to be 10.54μg PAT kg(-1) and 5.57μg PAT kg(-1) juice, respectively. The most contaminated samples were four concentrated juices ranging from 18.10μg PAT kg(-1) to 36.8μg PAT kg(-1) juice. The daily exposure to patulin for the consumers of all ages in Greece, is ranging from 0.008μg PAT kg(-1) bw to 0.1μg PAT kg(-1) bw if the daily intake of fruit juices is from 0.1 to 0.5kg. With the exception to the most contaminated sample, the daily exposure due to the samples examined, is below the provisional maximum tolerable daily intake for PAT (0.4μg PAT kg(-1) bw). Copyright © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Malnutrition is associated with worse health-related quality of life in children with cancer.

    PubMed

    Brinksma, Aeltsje; Sanderman, Robbert; Roodbol, Petrie F; Sulkers, Esther; Burgerhof, Johannes G M; de Bont, Eveline S J M; Tissing, Wim J E

    2015-10-01

    Malnutrition in childhood cancer patients has been associated with lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL). However, this association has never actually been tested. Therefore, we aimed to determine the association between nutritional status and HRQOL in children with cancer. In 104 children, aged 2-18 years and diagnosed with hematological, solid, or brain malignancies, nutritional status and HRQOL were assessed at diagnosis and at 3, 6, and 12 months using the child- and parent-report versions of the PedsQL 4.0 Generic scale and the PedsQL 3.0 Cancer Module. Scores on both scales range from 0 to 100. Undernourished children (body mass index (BMI) or fat-free mass < -2 standard deviation score (SDS)) reported significantly lower PedsQL scores compared with well-nourished children on the domains physical functioning (-13.3), social functioning (-7.0), cancer summary scale (-5.9), and nausea (-14.7). Overnourished children (BMI or fat mass >2 SDS) reported lower scores on emotional (-8.0) and cognitive functioning (-9.2) and on the cancer summary scale (-6.6), whereas parent-report scores were lower on social functioning (-7.5). Weight loss (>0.5 SDS) was associated with lower scores on physical functioning (-13.9 child-report and -10.7 parent-report), emotional (-7.4) and social functioning (-6.0) (child-report), pain (-11.6), and nausea (-7.8) (parent-report). Parents reported worse social functioning and more pain in children with weight gain (>0.5 SDS) compared with children with stable weight status. Undernutrition and weight loss were associated with worse physical and social functioning, whereas overnutrition and weight gain affected the emotional and social domains of HRQL. Interventions that improve nutritional status may contribute to enhanced health outcomes in children with cancer.

  4. The validation of a computer-adaptive test (CAT) for assessing health-related quality of life in children and adolescents in a clinical sample: study design, methods and first results of the Kids-CAT study.

    PubMed

    Barthel, D; Otto, C; Nolte, S; Meyrose, A-K; Fischer, F; Devine, J; Walter, O; Mierke, A; Fischer, K I; Thyen, U; Klein, M; Ankermann, T; Rose, M; Ravens-Sieberer, U

    2017-05-01

    Recently, we developed a computer-adaptive test (CAT) for assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children and adolescents: the Kids-CAT. It measures five generic HRQoL dimensions. The aims of this article were (1) to present the study design and (2) to investigate its psychometric properties in a clinical setting. The Kids-CAT study is a longitudinal prospective study with eight measurements over one year at two University Medical Centers in Germany. For validating the Kids-CAT, 270 consecutive 7- to 17-year-old patients with asthma (n = 52), diabetes (n = 182) or juvenile arthritis (n = 36) answered well-established HRQoL instruments (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory™ (PedsQL), KIDSCREEN-27) and scales measuring related constructs (e.g., social support, self-efficacy). Measurement precision, test-retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity were investigated. The mean standard error of measurement ranged between .38 and .49 for the five dimensions, which equals a reliability between .86 and .76, respectively. The Kids-CAT measured most reliably in the lower HRQoL range. Convergent validity was supported by moderate to high correlations of the Kids-CAT dimensions with corresponding PedsQL dimensions ranging between .52 and .72. A lower correlation was found between the social dimensions of both instruments. Discriminant validity was confirmed by lower correlations with non-corresponding subscales of the PedsQL. The Kids-CAT measures pediatric HRQoL reliably, particularly in lower areas of HRQoL. Its test-retest reliability should be re-investigated in future studies. The validity of the instrument was demonstrated. Overall, results suggest that the Kids-CAT is a promising candidate for detecting psychosocial needs in chronically ill children.

  5. Effect of mindfulness and yoga on quality of life for elementary school students and teachers: results of a randomized controlled school-based study.

    PubMed

    Bazzano, Alessandra N; Anderson, Christopher E; Hylton, Chelsea; Gustat, Jeanette

    2018-01-01

    To assess the impact of a yoga curriculum in an elementary school on student quality of life, and to assess teacher and staff perception of potential barriers to, and benefits of, introducing yoga and mindfulness into the classroom. A randomized controlled trial was utilized to assess the impact of a brief intervention on third-grade students who screened positive for symptoms of anxiety. Students were randomized to an intervention group of 20 students receiving small-group yoga/mindfulness activities for 8 weeks between October 2016 and February 2017, and a control group of 32 students receiving care as usual. The Brief Multidimensional Students' Life Satisfaction Scale-Peabody Treatment Progress Battery and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) served as outcomes. Teachers were invited to participate in two professional development sessions about introducing yoga and mindfulness into the classroom, and completed a survey following each of the sessions. In generalized estimating equation models adjusted for time, the yoga-based intervention was associated with a 14.17 unit increase in student emotional PedsQL ( p -value 0.001) and a 7.43 unit increase in psychosocial PedsQL ( p -value 0.01). Results were not attenuated by adjustment. Teachers and staff reported using yoga more frequently in the classroom following the second of two professional development sessions ( p -value <0.05). Perceived barriers to introducing yoga to the classroom were similar at two data collection time points, while perceived benefits remained high. The intervention was associated with a significant improvement in emotional and psychosocial quality of life in the intervention group when compared to the control group, suggesting that yoga/mindfulness interventions may improve symptoms of anxiety among students. Yoga/mindfulness activities may facilitate stress management among elementary school students and may be added as a complement to social and emotional learning

  6. Constraints on seismic anisotropy beneath the Appalachian Mountains from Love-to-Rayleigh wave scattering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Servali, A.; Long, M. D.; Benoit, M.

    2017-12-01

    The eastern margin of North America has been affected by a series of mountain building and rifting events that have likely shaped the deep structure of the lithosphere. Observations of seismic anisotropy can provide insight into lithospheric deformation associated with these past tectonic events, as well as into present-day patterns of mantle flow beneath the passive margin. Previous work on SKS splitting beneath eastern North America has revealed fast splitting directions parallel to the strike of the Appalachian orogen in the central and southern Appalachians. A major challenge to the interpretation of SKS splitting measurements, however, is the lack of vertical resolution; isolating anisotropic structures at different depths is therefore difficult. Complementary constraints on the depth distribution of anisotropy can be provided by surface waves. In this study, we analyze the scattering of Love wave energy to Rayleigh waves, which is generated via sharp lateral gradients in anisotropic structure along the ray path. The scattered phases, known as quasi-Love (QL) waves, exhibit amplitude behavior that depend on the strength of the anisotropic contrast as well as the angle between the propagation azimuth and the anisotropic symmetry axis. We analyze data collected by the dense MAGIC seismic array across the central Appalachians. We examine teleseismic earthquakes of magnitude 6.7 and greater over a range of backazimuths, and isolate surface waves at periods between 100 and 500 seconds. We compare the data to synthetic seismograms generated by the Princeton Global ShakeMovie initiative to identify anomalous QL arrivals. We find evidence significant QL arrivals at MAGIC stations, with amplitudes depending on propagation azimuth and station location. Preliminary results are consistent with a sharp lateral gradient in seismic anisotropy across the Appalachian Mountains in the depth range between 100-200 km.

  7. Type 1 diabetes - impact on children and parents at diagnosis and 1 year subsequent to the child's diagnosis.

    PubMed

    Jönsson, Lisbeth; Lundqvist, Pia; Tiberg, Irén; Hallström, Inger

    2015-03-01

    When a child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it is a complex and challenging situation for the whole family. The management of the disease places substantial demands on the family and they need to change their daily life. The short- and long-term impact on the family has rarely been described; therefore, the aim of this study was to describe and compare the disease impact on parents and children in terms of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at diagnosis and 1 year subsequent to the child's diagnosis with type 1 diabetes. A further aim was to describe and compare the parents' satisfaction with the care received. Sixty-nine children and their parents were included. Parents independently filled in the PedsQL(™) Family Impact Module and the PedsQL(™) Health Care Satisfaction Generic Module. The PedsQL(™) 3.0 Diabetes Module was filled in by parents and children over the age of 5. Mothers reported a lower HRQOL than fathers both at the time of diagnosis (p = 0.003) and 1 year later (p = 0.041). For diabetes-specific HRQOL, children aged 5-7 years and their parents reported more worry than children and parents in older age groups (p = 0.037). Children aged 8-12 and 13-18 years reported a higher treatment adherence than mothers (p = 0.011 and p = 0.039, respectively); no differences were found between children and fathers. Both parents expressed overall satisfaction with the child's health care. The family is affected during the first year after their child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Both parents and the youngest children estimated a high degree of worry. The diabetes team needs to be aware of this and to take it into consideration. © 2014 Nordic College of Caring Science.

  8. Validation of the Pediatric Cardiac Quality of Life Inventory

    PubMed Central

    Marino, Bradley S.; Tomlinson, Ryan S.; Wernovsky, Gil; Drotar, Dennis; Newburger, Jane W.; Mahony, Lynn; Mussatto, Kathleen; Tong, Elizabeth; Cohen, Mitchell; Andersen, Charlotte; Shera, David; Khoury, Philip R.; Wray, Jo; Gaynor, J. William; Helfaer, Mark A.; Kazak, Anne E.; Shea, Judy A.

    2012-01-01

    OBJECTIVE The purpose of this multicenter study was to confirm the validity and reliability of the Pediatric Cardiac Quality of Life Inventory (PCQLI). METHODS Seven centers recruited pediatric patients (8–18 years of age) with heart disease (HD) and their parents to complete the PCQLI and generic health-related quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory [PedsQL]) and non–quality of life (Self-Perception Profile for Children [SPPC]/Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents [SPPA] and Youth Self-Report [YSR]/Child Behavior Checklist [CBCL]) tools. PCQLI construct validity was assessed through correlations of PCQLI scores between patients and parents and with severity of congenital HD, medical care utilization, and PedsQL, SPPC/SPPA, and YSR/CBCL scores. PCQLI test-retest reliability was evaluated. RESULTS The study enrolled 1605 patient-parent pairs. Construct validity was substantiated by the association of lower PCQLI scores with Fontan palliation and increased numbers of cardiac operations, hospital admissions, and physician visits (P < .001); moderate to good correlations between patient and parent PCQLI scores (r = 0.41–0.61; P <.001); and fair to good correlations between PCQLI total scores and PedsQL total (r = 0.70–0.76), SPPC/SPPA global self-worth (r = 0.43–0.46), YSR/CBCL total competency (r = 0.28–0.37), and syndrome and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition-oriented scale (r = −0.58 to −0.30; P < .001) scores. Test-retest reliability correlations were excellent (r = 0.78–0.90; P < .001). CONCLUSIONS PCQLI scores are valid and reliable for children and adolescents with congenital and acquired HD and may be useful for future research and clinical management. Pediatrics 2010;126:498–508 PMID:20805147

  9. Effect of mindfulness and yoga on quality of life for elementary school students and teachers: results of a randomized controlled school-based study

    PubMed Central

    Bazzano, Alessandra N; Anderson, Christopher E; Hylton, Chelsea; Gustat, Jeanette

    2018-01-01

    Objective To assess the impact of a yoga curriculum in an elementary school on student quality of life, and to assess teacher and staff perception of potential barriers to, and benefits of, introducing yoga and mindfulness into the classroom. Methods A randomized controlled trial was utilized to assess the impact of a brief intervention on third-grade students who screened positive for symptoms of anxiety. Students were randomized to an intervention group of 20 students receiving small-group yoga/mindfulness activities for 8 weeks between October 2016 and February 2017, and a control group of 32 students receiving care as usual. The Brief Multidimensional Students’ Life Satisfaction Scale-Peabody Treatment Progress Battery and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) served as outcomes. Teachers were invited to participate in two professional development sessions about introducing yoga and mindfulness into the classroom, and completed a survey following each of the sessions. Results In generalized estimating equation models adjusted for time, the yoga-based intervention was associated with a 14.17 unit increase in student emotional PedsQL (p-value 0.001) and a 7.43 unit increase in psychosocial PedsQL (p-value 0.01). Results were not attenuated by adjustment. Teachers and staff reported using yoga more frequently in the classroom following the second of two professional development sessions (p-value <0.05). Perceived barriers to introducing yoga to the classroom were similar at two data collection time points, while perceived benefits remained high. Conclusion The intervention was associated with a significant improvement in emotional and psychosocial quality of life in the intervention group when compared to the control group, suggesting that yoga/mindfulness interventions may improve symptoms of anxiety among students. Yoga/mindfulness activities may facilitate stress management among elementary school students and may be added as a complement to social

  10. Health-Related Quality of Life in Children Attending Special and Typical Education Greek Schools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Papadopoulou, D.; Malliou, P.; Kofotolis, N.; Vlachopoulos, S. P.; Kellis, E.

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine parental perceptions about Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) of typical education and special education students in Greece. The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) was administered to the parents of 251 children from typical schools, 46 students attending integration classes (IC) within a…

  11. The PEDALS Stationary Cycling Intervention and Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    DeMuth, Sharon K.; Knutson, Loretta M.; Fowler, Eileen G.

    2012-01-01

    Aim: The aim of this study was to assess health-related quality of life (HRQOL) following a stationary cycling intervention in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: This was a phase I multisite randomized controlled trial with single blinding. HRQOL was evaluated using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory SF15 (PedsQL; children) and…

  12. Subjective Fatigue in Children with Hearing Loss: Some Preliminary Findings

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hornsby, Benjamin W. Y.; Werfel, Krystal; Camarata, Stephen; Bess, Fred H.

    2014-01-01

    Purpose: In this study, the authors examined the effect of hearing loss on subjective reports of fatigue in school-age children using a standardized measure. Methods: As part of a larger ongoing study, the authors obtained subjective ratings of fatigue using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (Varni,…

  13. Resonant magneto-optic Kerr effect in the magnetic topological insulator Cr:(Sb x,Bi 1–x) 2Te 3

    DOE PAGES

    Patankar, Shreyas; Hinton, J. P.; Griesmar, Joel; ...

    2015-12-31

    Here, we report measurements of the polar Kerr effect, proportional to the out-of-plane component of the magnetization, in thin films of the magnetically doped topological insulator (Cr 0.12Bi 0.26Sb 0.62) 2Te 3. Measurements of the complex Kerr angle ΘK were performed as a function of photon energy in the range 0.8eV < ℏω < 3.0eV. We observed a peak in the real part of Θ K(ω) and zero crossing in the imaginary part that we attribute to a resonant interaction with a spin-orbit avoided crossing located ≈ 1.6 eV above the Fermi energy. The resonant enhancement allows measurement of themore » temperature and magnetic field dependence of Θ K in the ultrathin film limit, d ≥ 2 quintuple layers (QL). We find a sharp transition to zero remanent magnetization at 6 K for d < 8 QL, consistent with theories of the dependence of impurity spin interactions on film thickness and their location relative to topological insulator surfaces.« less

  14. Results from flamelet and non-flamelet models for supersonic combustion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ladeinde, Foluso; Li, Wenhai

    2017-11-01

    Air-breathing propulsion systems (scramjets) have been identified as a viable alternative to rocket engines for improved efficiency. A scramjet engine, which operates at flight Mach numbers around 7 or above, is characterized by the existence of supersonic flow conditions in the combustor. In a dual-mode scramjet, this phenomenon is possible because of the relatively low value of the equivalence ratio and high stagnation temperature, which, together, inhibits thermal choking downstream of transverse injectors. The flamelet method has been our choice for turbulence-combustion interaction modeling and we have extended the basic approach in several dimensions, with a focus on the way the pressure and progress variable are modeled. Improved results have been obtained. We have also examined non-flamelet models, including laminar chemistry (QL), eddy dissipation concept (EDC), and partially-stirred reactor (PaSR). The pressure/progress variable-corrected simulations give better results compared with the original model, with reaction rates that are lower than those from EDC and PaSR. In general, QL tends to over-predict the reaction rate for the supersonic combustion problems investigated in our work.

  15. Utilization of charge-transfer complexation for the detection of carcinogenic substances in foods: Spectroscopic characterization of ethyl carbamate with some traditional π-acceptors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adam, Abdel Majid A.; Refat, Moamen S.; Saad, Hosam A.

    2013-04-01

    The study of toxic and carcinogenic substances in foods represents one of the most demanding areas in food safety, due to their repercussions for public health. One potentially toxic compound for humans is ethyl carbamate (EC). EC is a multi-site genotoxic carcinogen of widespread occurrence in fermented foods and alcoholic beverages. Structural and thermal stability of charge-transfer complexes formed between EC as a donor with quinol (QL), picric acid (PA), chloranilic acid (CLA), p-chloranil (p-CHL) and 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) as acceptors were reported. Elemental analysis (CHN), electronic absorption spectra, photometric titration, IR, and 1H NMR spectra show that the interaction between EC and acceptors was stabilized by hydrogen bonding, via a 1:1 stoichiometry. Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis indicates that the formation of molecular CT complexes was stable, exothermic and spontaneous. Finally, the CT complexes were screened for their antibacterial and antifungal activities. The results indicated that the [(EC)(QL)] complex exhibited strong antimicrobial activities against various bacterial and fungal strains compared with standard drugs.

  16. Is continence status associated with quality of life in young children with spina bifida?

    PubMed

    Freeman, Kurt A; Smith, Kathryn; Adams, Elizabeth; Mizokawa, Stacey; Neville-Jan, Ann

    2013-01-01

    To evaluate the relationship between child- and parent-reported quality of life (QOL) and bowel and bladder continence among young children with spina bifida (SB). 104 children ages 5-12 years and one of their parents/guardians completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory - Generic Form (PedsQL; parent and child) and the Quality of Life in Spina Bifida Questionnaire (QOLSBQ, parent only). Data on continence, child age, and condition-specific variables were obtained by chart review. Parent and child QOL scores (on all measures of QOL) were positively correlated; parents rated child QOL lower than children's self report. QOL scores did not differ based on continence status. Total PedsQL scores were associated with age and mobility based on child report and with mobility based on parent report. QOL may not be affected by continence status among young children with SB, though demographic (i.e., age) and condition-specific (i.e., functional mobility status) variables appear relevant. Additional research is needed to further evaluate condition-specific variables, other protective variables, and possible measurement issues that influence QOL in young children with SB.

  17. Experimental study of phase separation in dividing two phase flow

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

    Qian Yong; Yang Zhilin; Xu Jijun

    1996-12-31

    Experimental study of phase separation of air-water two phase bubbly, slug flow in the horizontal T-junction is carried out. The influences of the inlet mass quality X1, mass extraction rate G3/G1, and fraction of extracted liquid QL3/QL1 on phase separation characteristics are analyzed. For the first time, the authors have found and defined pulsating run effect by the visual experiments, which show that under certain conditions, the down stream flow of the T-junction has strangely affected the phase redistribution of the junction, and firstly point out that the downstream geometric condition is very important to the study of phase separationmore » phenomenon of two-phase flow in a T-junction. This kind of phenomenon has many applications in the field of energy, power, petroleum and chemical industries, such as the loss of coolant accident (LOCA) caused by a small break in a horizontal coolant pipe in nuclear reactor, and the flip-flop effect in the natural gas transportation pipeline system, etc.« less

  18. Spectroscopic investigations of the charge-transfer interaction between the drug reserpine and different acceptors: Towards understanding of drug-receptor mechanism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eldaroti, Hala H.; Gadir, Suad A.; Refat, Moamen S.; Adam, Abdel Majid A.

    2013-11-01

    The study of the charge-transfer interaction of the drugs may be useful in understanding the drug-receptor interactions and the mechanism of drug action. Structural and thermal stability of charge-transfer (CT) complexes formed between the drug reserpine (Res) as a donor and quinol (QL), picric acid (PA), tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) or dichlorodicyanobenzoquinone (DDQ) as acceptors were reported. Elemental analysis, electronic absorption, spectrophotometric titration, IR, Raman, 1H NMR and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) were used to characterize the new products. The thermal stability of the synthesized CT complexes was investigated using thermogravimetric (TG) analyses, and the morphology and particle size of these complexes were obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The stoichiometry of the complexes (donor:acceptor molar ratio) was determined to be 1:1 for all complexes. Accordingly the formed CT complexes could be formulated as [(Res)(QL)], [(Res)(PA)], [(Res)(TCNQ)] and [(Res)(DDQ)]. It was found that the obtained CT complexes are nanoscale, semi-crystalline particles, thermally stable and formed through spontaneous reaction. The results obtained herein are satisfactory for estimation of drug Res in the pharmaceutical form.

  19. Impact of Mobility Device Use on Quality of Life in Children With Friedreich Ataxia.

    PubMed

    Ejaz, Resham; Chen, Shiyi; Isaacs, Charles J; Carnevale, Amanda; Wilson, Judith; George, Kristen; Delatycki, Martin B; Perlman, Susan L; Mathews, Katherine D; Wilmot, George R; Hoyle, J Chad; Subramony, Sub H; Zesiewicz, Theresa; Farmer, Jennifer M; Lynch, David R; Yoon, Grace

    2018-05-01

    To determine how mobility device use impacts quality of life in children with Friedreich ataxia. Data from 111 pediatric patients with genetically confirmed Friedreich ataxia were collected from a prospective natural history study utilizing standardized clinical evaluations, including health-related quality of life using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Module. Mobility device use was associated with worse mean PedsQL total, physical, emotional, social, and academic subscores, after adjusting for gender, age of disease onset, and Friedreich Ataxia Rating Scale score. The magnitude of the difference was greatest for the physical subscore (-19.5 points, 95% CI = -30.00, -8.99, P < .001) and least for the emotional subscore (-10.61 points, 95% CI = -20.21, -1.02, P = .03). Transition to or between mobility devices trended toward worse physical subscore (-16.20 points, 95% CI = -32.07, -0.33, P = .05). Mobility device use is associated with significant worsening of all domains of quality of life in children with Friedreich ataxia.

  20. U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, COOKE SEVIN BRAND LIQUID CARBARYL INSECTICIDE, 07/10/1989

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    2011-04-14

    ... '('l~ i~'fdlU:tlOf: te. StJrfi(f~ ~~frf ~'~~~f spril~ rt£)d~fS ~~f CbJf(tIClni~!f. ~t hot kSf t~l! ~rodo(t JTI e,' en f:fctrHel f'Ql!J~Hf!t dCt: tv tt.E- pU:'~I~ilit,. ...

  1. What Adds Up?: Math Enrollment and Graduation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Utah System of Higher Education, 2015

    2015-01-01

    College students struggling to pass a college level math course required for Quantitative Literacy (QL) credit1 has been a common issue facing many institutions in higher education. In the fall of 2014, the Utah State Board of Regents solidified a statewide initiative that set goals for each of the Utah System of Higher Education institutions (UU,…

  2. Automatic and Controlled Attention Processes in Auditory Detection.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-02-01

    DC 20380 1 Dr. Genevieve Hddad Progri Manager 1 Special Assistant for Marine Life Sciences Directorate Corps Matters AFOBR Code lOOM Bolling AFB, DC...INC. UIVERSITY PLAZA, SUM 10 1 Dr. Kenneth B. Cross O1160 0. STATE ST. Macape Sciences, Inc. OREM, Ur 84057 P.O. Drawer Ql i anta Bar ara,0 Dr. Pat

  3. Breast cancer survivors: psychosocial concerns and quality of life.

    PubMed

    Ganz, P A; Coscarelli, A; Fred, C; Kahn, B; Polinsky, M L; Petersen, L

    1996-01-01

    To describe the psychosocial concerns and quality of life of breast cancer survivors evaluated 2 and 3 years after primary treatment. A sample of 139 breast cancer survivors who had been interviewed during the first year after primary treatment participated in a mailed survey at 2 years (N = 69) and 3 years (N = 70) after initial surgery. A random sample of these survivors were also interviewed in person. The mailed questionnaire included standardized instruments to assess quality of life (QL), rehabilitation needs, and psychological distress. Additional survey questions were developed to examine post-surgical recovery, employment and insurance problems, social support, and existential concerns. The in-person interviews expanded on these questions and systematically compared these patients' rehabilitation needs to those which existed at the time of an interview 1 year after surgery. The 2 and 3 year participants in this follow-up study did not differ from each other on their prior assessments with standardized QL instruments during the first year after surgery, nor did they differ from the full study sample of 227 women. The scores on the Profile of Mood States and the Functional Living Index-Cancer were the same for the 2 and 3 year survivor groups and did not differ from the previous assessments at 1 year after initial treatment. The scores on the Cancer Rehabilitation Evaluation System showed a significant decline in Global Quality of Life, Sexual Functioning and Marital Functioning between the 1 year and 3 year evaluations. For the 2 year sample only Sexual Functioning showed a deterioration between the 1 and 2 year evaluations. Using the RAND 36-Item Health Survey 1.0, the breast cancer survivors were compared with patients from the Medical Outcomes Study. The breast cancer survivors demonstrated higher levels of functioning in many dimensions (role functioning, social functioning, pain, and general health) than the patients with chronic medical conditions. In

  4. Effects of chilling rate and spray-chilling on weight loss and tenderness in beef strip loin steaks.

    PubMed

    Prado, C S; de Felício, P E

    2010-10-01

    We evaluated the effects of chilling rate and the use of a spray-chilling system on the weight loss by evaporation on carcasses. We also evaluated the effects on meat purge in vacuum package, cooking losses, and on parameters related to the tenderness of strip loin steaks (M. longissimus lumborum). Forty non-castrated males of approximately 12 months old, finished in feed-lot were harvested in 16 Montana cattle (a composite breed), and 24 SimmentalxNellore crossbred cattle. After bleeding, the bodies were electrically stimulated and assigned to one of the four treatments: conventional air-chilling (CAC), conventional spray-chilling (CSC), slow air-chilling (SAC), and slow spray-chilling (SSC). Strip loin steaks (M. longissimus lumborum) of approximately 2.5 cm thick were removed, vacuum packed and aged for 7, 14, 30 or 60 days. Samples were analyzed for sarcomere length, myofibrillar fragmentation index, Warner-Bratzler shear force, and weight losses by purge and cooking. Spraying was efficient in reducing weight loss by evaporation (P<0.05). Effects of treatments and aging period on purge losses were observed, where samples from sprayed carcasses or aged cuts showed higher losses. Cooking losses were not affected either by spraying or aging. The slow chilling, with or without spraying, was more efficient in producing strip loin steaks with lower average shear force and longer sarcomere. The myofibrillar fragmentation index increased with aging time, but was not affected by carcasses spraying. Copyright (c) 2010 The American Meat Science Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  5. Comparison of Three Methods for Generating Superhydrophobic, Superoleophobic Nylon Nonwoven Surfaces (Postprint)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-04-01

    AFRL-RX-TY-TP-2010-0076 COMPARISON OF THREE METHODS FOR GENERATING SUPERHYDROPHOBIC , SUPEROLEOPHOBIC NYLON NONWOVEN SURFACES Rahul Saraf...Generating Superhydrophobic , Superoleophobic Nylon Nonwoven Surfaces (POSTPRINT) FA8650-07-1-5916 0602102F GOVT L0 QL102006 ^Saraf, Rahul,; ^Lee, Hoon...Document contains color images. This research deals with creating a superhydrophobic /superoleophobic surface by preparing a metastable Cassie

  6. An Investigation of Technologies for Hazardous Sludge Reduction at AFLC (Air Force Logistics Command) Industrial Waste Treatment Plants. Volume 1. Sodium Borohydride Treatment and Sludge Handling Technologies.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-12-01

    ql.udge treatment studies, and preparation of preliminary designs . First Lieutenant James Aldrich was the RDV Project Officer. This technical report has...METAL REMOVA STUDY.. . .. .. .. . . .. 51 VI INVESTIGATING SLUDGE TREATMENT TECHNOLOGIES . 76 VII PROTOTYPE DESIGNS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 viii...Task V was directed at developing basic design and cost data for prototype systems that employ the most promising methods developed under Tasks III and

  7. GraQL: A Query Language for High-Performance Attributed Graph Databases

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

    Chavarría-Miranda, Daniel; Castellana, Vito G.; Morari, Alessandro

    Graph databases have gained increasing interest in the last few years due to the emergence of data sources which are not easily analyzable in traditional relational models or for which a graph data model is the natural representation. In order to understand the design and implementation choices for an attributed graph database backend and query language, we have started to design our infrastructure for attributed graph databases. In this paper, we describe the design considerations of our in-memory attributed graph database system with a particular focus on the data definition and query language components.

  8. In Psycho-Spiritual Integrative Therapy for Women with Primary Breast Cancer, What Factors Account for the Benefits? Insights from a Multiple Case Analysis.

    PubMed

    Rettger, John; Wall, Kathleen; Corwin, Diana; Davidson, Alexandra N; Lukoff, David; Koopman, Cheryl

    2015-05-12

    This study sought to understand the context in which Psycho-Spiritual Integrative Therapy (PSIT), a group intervention, promotes varying degrees of spiritual growth and quality of life change in breast cancer survivors. A secondary aim was to explore the relationship between spiritual well-being (SWB) and Quality of Life (QL) in PSIT participants. A qualitative, multiple case analysis was undertaken to examine the experiences of two participants with the highest change scores on the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Spiritual Well-Being Scale-Expanded Version (FACIT-Sp-Ex) and two participants with among the lowest change scores on this measure. The participant factors thought to contribute to SWB and QL changes included utilization of metacognitive psychological skills and spiritual/religious frameworks, while PSIT factors included application of PSIT core intervention components, cognitive restructuring, group dynamics, and the role of the facilitator. The nature and extent of participant use of spiritual practices appeared to shape the relationship between SWB and OL. The findings suggest directions for future research to investigate potential moderators and mediators of treatment efficacy of PSIT specifically, as well as other psycho-spiritual interventions for cancer survivors more generally.

  9. Fluence-to-dose conversion coefficients for neutrons and protons calculated using the PHITS code and ICRP/ICRU adult reference computational phantoms.

    PubMed

    Sato, Tatsuhiko; Endo, Akira; Zankl, Maria; Petoussi-Henss, Nina; Niita, Koji

    2009-04-07

    The fluence to organ-dose and effective-dose conversion coefficients for neutrons and protons with energies up to 100 GeV was calculated using the PHITS code coupled to male and female adult reference computational phantoms, which are to be released as a common ICRP/ICRU publication. For the calculation, the radiation and tissue weighting factors, w(R) and w(T), respectively, as revised in ICRP Publication 103 were employed. The conversion coefficients for effective dose equivalents derived using the radiation quality factors of both Q(L) and Q(y) relationships were also estimated, utilizing the functions for calculating the probability densities of the absorbed dose in terms of LET (L) and lineal energy (y), respectively, implemented in PHITS. By comparing these data with the corresponding data for the effective dose, we found that the numerical compatibilities of the revised w(R) with the Q(L) and Q(y) relationships are fairly established. The calculated data of these dose conversion coefficients are indispensable for constructing the radiation protection systems based on the new recommendations given in ICRP103 for aircrews and astronauts, as well as for workers in accelerators and nuclear facilities.

  10. Health-Related Quality of Life of Nepalese Children With Leukemia Using Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scale.

    PubMed

    V K, Anu; Onta, Mandira; Joshi, Sarala

    Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is an essential measure to consider when evaluating the full impact of illness in children diagnosed with leukemia. The purpose of the current study was to assess the overall HRQOL and specific functioning subscales of Nepalese children with leukemia using Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 Generic Core Scale (PedsQL 4.0), compare self-report with parent proxy report of HRQOL and to identify the determinants affecting HRQOL. After cultural linguistic validation of PedsQL, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 43 children with leukemia and their parents in B. P. Koirala Memorial Cancer Hospital, Bharatpur via interview schedule. Among the subscales of HRQOL both the child's self-report and parent proxy report scores were highest in social functioning and lowest in emotional functioning subscale. Intraclass correlation coefficient between proxy reports and self-reports were highest (0.828) in physical functioning and lowest (0.493) in social functioning subscales. Age group was significantly associated with the total score, physical functioning subscale, and emotional functioning subscale of only proxy scores. Leukemic children's age-specific needs should be addressed properly to improve their overall HRQOL.

  11. Prototype Implementation of Web and Desktop Applications for ALMA Science Verification Data and the Lessons Learned

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eguchi, S.; Kawasaki, W.; Shirasaki, Y.; Komiya, Y.; Kosugi, G.; Ohishi, M.; Mizumoto, Y.

    2013-10-01

    ALMA is estimated to generate TB scale data during only one observation; astronomers need to identify which part of the data they are really interested in. We have been developing new GUI software for this purpose utilizing the VO interface: ALMA Web Quick Look System (ALMAWebQL) and ALMA Desktop Application (Vissage). The former is written in JavaScript and HTML5 generated from Java code by the Google Web Toolkit, and the latter is in pure Java. An essential point of our approach is how to reduce network traffic: we prepare, in advance, “compressed” FITS files of 2x2x1 (horizontal, vertical, and spectral directions, respectively) binning, 2 x 2 x 2 binning, 4 x 4 x 2 binning data, and so on. These files are hidden from users, and Web QL automatically chooses the proper one for each user operation. Through this work, we find that network traffic in our system is still a bottleneck towards TB scale data distribution. Hence we have to develop alternative data containers for much faster data processing. In this paper, we introduce our data analysis systems, and describe what we learned through the development.

  12. Building 1D resonance broadened quasilinear (RBQ) code for fast ions Alfvénic relaxations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gorelenkov, Nikolai; Duarte, Vinicius; Berk, Herbert

    2016-10-01

    The performance of the burning plasma is limited by the confinement of superalfvenic fusion products, e.g. alpha particles, which are capable of resonating with the Alfvénic eigenmodes (AEs). The effect of AEs on fast ions is evaluated using a resonance line broadened diffusion coefficient. The interaction of fast ions and AEs is captured for cases where there are either isolated or overlapping modes. A new code RBQ1D is being built which constructs diffusion coefficients based on realistic eigenfunctions that are determined by the ideal MHD code NOVA. The wave particle interaction can be reduced to one-dimensional dynamics where for the Alfvénic modes typically the particle kinetic energy is nearly constant. Hence to a good approximation the Quasi-Linear (QL) diffusion equation only contains derivatives in the angular momentum. The diffusion equation is then one dimensional that is efficiently solved simultaneously for all particles with the equation for the evolution of the wave angular momentum. The evolution of fast ion constants of motion is governed by the QL diffusion equations which are adapted to find the ion distribution function.

  13. Ion acceleration by multiple reflections at Martian bow shock

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamauchi, M.; Futaana, Y.; Fedorov, A.; Frahm, R. A.; Dubinin, E.; Lundin, R.; Sauvaud, J.-A.; Winningham, J. D.; Barabash, S.; Holmström, M.

    2012-02-01

    The ion mass analyzer (IMA) on board Mars Express revealed bundled structures of ions in the energy domain within a distance of a proton gyroradius from the Martian bow shock. Seven prominent traversals during 2005 were examined when the energy-bunched structure was observed together with pick-up ions of exospheric origin, the latter of which is used to determine the local magnetic field orientation from its circular trajectory in velocity space. These seven traversals include different bow shock configurations: (a) quasi-perpendicular shock with its specular direction of the solar wind more perpendicular to the magnetic field (QT), (b) quasi-perpendicular shock with its specular reflection direction of the solar wind more along the magnetic field (FS), and (c) quasi-parallel (QL) shock. In all seven cases, the velocity components of the energy-bunched structure are consistent with multiple specular reflections of the solar wind at the bow shock up to at least two reflections. The accelerated solar wind ions after two specular reflections have large parallel components with respect to the magnetic field for both QL cases whereas the field-aligned speed is much smaller than the perpendicular speed for all QT cases.

  14. Spatial scan statistics for detection of multiple clusters with arbitrary shapes.

    PubMed

    Lin, Pei-Sheng; Kung, Yi-Hung; Clayton, Murray

    2016-12-01

    In applying scan statistics for public health research, it would be valuable to develop a detection method for multiple clusters that accommodates spatial correlation and covariate effects in an integrated model. In this article, we connect the concepts of the likelihood ratio (LR) scan statistic and the quasi-likelihood (QL) scan statistic to provide a series of detection procedures sufficiently flexible to apply to clusters of arbitrary shape. First, we use an independent scan model for detection of clusters and then a variogram tool to examine the existence of spatial correlation and regional variation based on residuals of the independent scan model. When the estimate of regional variation is significantly different from zero, a mixed QL estimating equation is developed to estimate coefficients of geographic clusters and covariates. We use the Benjamini-Hochberg procedure (1995) to find a threshold for p-values to address the multiple testing problem. A quasi-deviance criterion is used to regroup the estimated clusters to find geographic clusters with arbitrary shapes. We conduct simulations to compare the performance of the proposed method with other scan statistics. For illustration, the method is applied to enterovirus data from Taiwan. © 2016, The International Biometric Society.

  15. LiDAR collection in August 2015 over the East River Watershed, Colorado, USA

    DOE Data Explorer

    Wainwright, Haruko [Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States); Williams, Kenneth

    2017-01-01

    Airborne LiDAR data were acquired over the study area on August 10th, 2015, using a Riegl Q1560 dual-channel LiDAR system mounted on a Piper Navajo. The survey was performed by Quantum Spatial in collaboration with Eagle Mapping Ltd. The data complies with the USGS QL1 standard [Heideman, 2014] with the point density more than 8 pulse per m2.

  16. Fuel/Engine/Airframe Trade-Off Study.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-09-01

    calculated: Prce CgeQl Using Diese Pices Lw l- JP-8 0.67 1.01 Using Heating Oil Prices JP-4 0.0 0.0 JP-8 -0.81 -1.23 On a percentage basis, these price...36. Graham, S. C., J. B. Homer, Jr., and L. L. ,1. Rosenfeld. "The Formation and Coagulation of Soot Aerosols Generated by the Pyrolysis of Aromatic

  17. A PLUG-AND-PLAY ARCHITECTURE FOR PROBABILISTIC PROGRAMMING

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-04-01

    programs that use discrete numerical distributions, but even then, the space of possible outcomes may be uncountable (as a solution can be infinite...also identify conditions guaranteeing that all possible outcomes are finite (and then the probability space is discrete ). 2.2.2 The PlogiQL...and not determined at runtime. Nevertheless, the PRAiSE team plans to extend their solution to support numerical (continuous or discrete

  18. The impact of extended half-life versus conventional factor product on hemophilia caregiver burden.

    PubMed

    Schwartz, Carolyn E; Powell, Victoria E; Su, Jun; Zhang, Jie; Eldar-Lissai, Adi

    2018-05-01

    Extended half-life factor products have reduced annualized bleeding rates in hemophilia patients. The impact of extended half-life versus conventional factor products on hemophilia caregiver burden has not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate caregiver burden in extended half-life versus conventional factor products for hemophilia A and B. This cross-sectional web-based study of caregivers of people with hemophilia A or B was recruited from a panel research company and by word of mouth. Participants completed the Hemophilia Caregiver Impact measure, the PedsQL Family Impact Module (PedsQL), and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire (WPAI). We also collected demographic, insurance coverage, and medical information related to the hemophilia patient(s). Burden differences were assessed using linear regression and matched cohort analyses. The sample (n = 448) included 49 people who were caring for people on extended half-life factor products. Worse caregiver burden was associated with more infusions per week and more bleeds in the past 6 months. Regression analyses suggested that caring for someone who is on a extended half-life factor product is associated with lower emotional impact (β = - 0.11, p < 0.05, Adjusted R 2  = 0.06), and shows a trend association with lower practical impact (β = - 0.09, p < 0.10, Adjusted R 2  = 0.05). The matched cohort analysis also revealed that people on extended half-life factor product had lower Emotional Impact and Practical Impact scores (t = - 2.95 and - 2.94, respectively, p < 0.05 in both cases). No differences were detected on the PedsQL or the WPAI. The reduced required frequency of factor product infusions of extended half-life factor products appears to reduce the emotional distress and practical burden of caregiving. Future work should evaluate the longitudinal impact.

  19. Does Prolonged Enteral Feeding With Supplemental Omega-3 Fatty Acids Impact on Recovery Post-esophagectomy: Results of a Randomized Double-Blind Trial.

    PubMed

    Healy, Laura A; Ryan, Aoife; Doyle, Suzanne L; Ní Bhuachalla, Éadaoin Bríd; Cushen, Samantha; Segurado, Ricardo; Murphy, Thomas; Ravi, Narayanasamy; Donohoe, Claire L; Reynolds, John V

    2017-11-01

    This randomized controlled trial (RCT) hypothesized that prolonged enteral nutrition (EN) with supplemental eicosapentanoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid with immune and anabolic properties, may impact on clinical and nutritional outcomes. Esophagectomy is associated with significant weight loss and catabolism, and negatively impacts quality of life (QL). Strategies to counter sustained catabolism have therapeutic rationale. This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT was powered on a 5% difference in lean body mass (LBM) at 1 month. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either EN-EPA (2.2 g EPA/day) (n = 97) or isocaloric isonitrogenous standard EN (EN-S) (n = 94), preoperatively (5 days orally), and postoperatively via a jejunostomy until 1 month postdischarge. Assessments perioperatively, and at 1, 3, and 6 months included weight, body mass index (BMI), body composition, muscle strength, cytokines, complications, and QL. The median (range) nutrition support was for 51 (36 to 78) days, and overall compliance was 96%. For the entire cohort, a significant (P < 0.005) decrease in weight (-7.4 ± 6.6 kg), BMI (-2.6 ± 2.2 kg/m), LBM (-2.5 ± 8.7 kg), and fat mass (-3.4 ± 5.8 kg) was evident from preoperatively to 6 months. The mean (±SD) loss of LBM (kg) at 1 month was -3.7 ± 8.7 in the EN-S group, compared with -5.6 ± 12.1 in the EN-EPA group (P = 0.355). Per-protocol analysis revealed no difference between the EN-EPA and EN-S in any clinical, nutritional, functional, QL or immune parameter at any time point. The thesis that EPA impacts on anabolism, immune function, and clinical outcomes post-esophagectomy was not supported. Compliance with home EN was excellent, but weight, muscle, and fat loss was significant in 30% of patients, highlighting the complexity of postoperative weight loss.

  20. Health-related quality of life and disease symptoms in postmenopausal women with HR(+), HER2(-) advanced breast cancer treated with everolimus plus exemestane versus exemestane monotherapy.

    PubMed

    Campone, Mario; Beck, J Thaddeus; Gnant, Michael; Neven, Patrick; Pritchard, Kathleen I; Bachelot, Thomas; Provencher, Louise; Rugo, Hope S; Piccart, Martine; Hortobagyi, Gabriel N; Nunzi, Martina; Heng, Daniel Y C; Baselga, José; Komorowski, Anna; Noguchi, Shinzaburo; Horiguchi, Jun; Bennett, Lee; Ziemiecki, Ryan; Zhang, Jie; Cahana, Ayelet; Taran, Tetiana; Sahmoud, Tarek; Burris, Howard A

    2013-11-01

    Everolimus (EVE)+exemestane (EXE; n = 485) more than doubled median progression-free survival versus placebo (PBO) + EXE (n = 239), with a manageable safety profile and no deterioration in health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) in patients with hormone-receptor-positive (HR(+)) advanced breast cancer (ABC) who recurred or progressed on/after nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) therapy. To further evaluate EVE + EXE impact on disease burden, we conducted additional post-hoc analyses of patient-reported HRQOL. HRQOL was assessed using EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-BR23 questionnaires at baseline and every 6 weeks thereafter until treatment discontinuation because of disease progression, toxicity, or consent withdrawal. Endpoints included the QLQ-C30 Global Health Status (QL2) scale, the QLQ-BR23 breast symptom (BRBS), and arm symptom (BRAS) scales. Between-group differences in change from baseline were assessed using linear mixed models with selected covariates. Sensitivity analysis using pattern-mixture models determined the effect of study discontinuation on/before week 24. Treatment arms were compared using differences of least squares mean (LSM) changes from baseline and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) at each timepoint and overall. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00863655. Progression-free survival, survival, response rate, safety, and HRQOL. Linear mixed models (primary model) demonstrated no statistically significant overall difference between EVE + EXE and PBO + EXE for QL2 (LSM difference = -1.91; 95% CI = -4.61, 0.78), BRBS (LSM difference = -0.18; 95% CI = -1.98, 1.62), or BRAS (LSM difference = -0.42; 95% CI = -2.94, 2.10). Based on pattern-mixture models, patients who dropped out early had worse QL2 decline on both treatments. In the expanded pattern-mixture model, EVE + EXE-treated patients who did not drop out early had stable BRBS and BRAS relative to PBO + EXE. HRQOL data were not collected after disease progression. These analyses confirm

  1. Stormtime ring current and radiation belt ion transport: Simulations and interpretations

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lyons, Larry R.; Gorney, David J.; Chen, Margaret W.; Schulz, Michael

    1995-01-01

    We use a dynamical guiding-center model to investigate the stormtime transport of ring current and radiation-belt ions. We trace the motion of representative ions' guiding centers in response to model substorm-associated impulses in the convection electric field for a range of ion energies. Our simple magnetospheric model allows us to compare our numerical results quantitatively with analytical descriptions of particle transport, (e.g., with the quasilinear theory of radial diffusion). We find that 10-145-keV ions gain access to L approximately 3, where they can form the stormtime ring current, mainly from outside the (trapping) region in which particles execute closed drift paths. Conversely, the transport of higher-energy ions (approximately greater than 145 keV at L approximately 3) turns out to resemble radial diffusion. The quasilinear diffusion coefficient calculated for our model storm does not vary smoothly with particle energy, since our impulses occur at specific (although randomly determined) times. Despite the spectral irregularity, quasilinear theory provides a surprisingly accurate description of the transport process for approximately greater than 145-keV ions, even for the case of an individual storm. For 4 different realizations of our model storm, the geometric mean discrepancies between diffusion coefficients D(sup sim, sub LL) obtained from the simulations and the quasilinear diffusion coefficient D(sup ql, sub LL) amount to factors of 2.3, 2.3, 1.5, and 3.0, respectively. We have found that these discrepancies between D(sup sim, sub LL) and D(sup ql, sub LL) can be reduced slightly by invoking drift-resonance broadening to smooth out the sharp minima and maxima in D(sup ql, sub LL). The mean of the remaining discrepancies between D(sup sim, sub LL) and D(sup ql, sub LL) for the 4 different storms then amount to factors of 1.9, 2.1, 1.5, and 2.7, respectively. We find even better agreement when we reduce the impulse amplitudes systematically in

  2. Comparative functional anatomy of the epaxial musculature of dogs (Canis familiaris) bred for sprinting vs. fighting

    PubMed Central

    Webster, Emma L; Hudson, Penny E; Channon, Sarah B

    2014-01-01

    The axial musculoskeletal system of quadrupedal mammals is not currently well understood despite its functional importance in terms of facilitating postural stability and locomotion. Here we examined the detailed architecture of the muscles of the vertebral column of two breeds of dog, the Staffordshire bull terrier (SBT) and the racing greyhound, which have been selectively bred for physical combat and high speed sprint performance, respectively. Dissections of the epaxial musculature of nine racing greyhounds and six SBTs were carried out; muscle mass, length, and fascicle lengths were measured and used to calculate muscle physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), and to estimate maximum muscle potential for force, work and power production. The longissimus dorsi muscle was found to have a high propensity for force production in both breeds of dog; however, when considered in combination with the iliocostalis lumborum muscle it showed enhanced potential for production of power and facilitating spinal extension during galloping gaits. This was particularly the case in the greyhound, where the m. longissimus dorsi and the m. iliocostalis lumborum were estimated to have the potential to augment hindlimb muscle power by ca. 12%. Breed differences were found within various other muscles of the axial musculoskeletal system, particularly in the cranial cervical muscles and also the deep muscles of the thorax which insert on the ribs. These may also highlight key functional adaptations between the two breeds of dog, which have been selectively bred for particular purposes. Additionally, in both breeds of dog, we illustrate specialisation of muscle function by spinal region, with differences in both mass and PCSA found between muscles at varying levels of the axial musculoskeletal system, and between muscle functional groups. PMID:24917310

  3. Preformulation and Formulation of Investigational New Drugs

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-07-01

    Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) on the Degradation of Dilute Solutions (0,5 mg/ml) of HI-6 in pH 5.74 Citrate Buffer...Stability was enhanced by the use of sodium lauryl sulfate but not by the use of sodium taurocholate. ,q,.l 9 MethodoloUy Reagents HI-6𔃼CI, (WRAIR... sodium hydroxide, citric acid monohydrate, concentrated hydro- Uchloric acid, sodium chloride (Mallinckrodt); sodium lauryl sulfate , (Pfaltz and

  4. Photochemistry and Photophysics of Aqueous Cr(NH3)5(CN)(2+) and Trans-Cr(NH3)4(CN)(2+).

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-06-01

    molecular sieve., and distilled at reduced pressure, under nitrogen atmosphere, before use. -4- Equipment and procedures. - Emission lifetimes...either process could be assigned such an activation energy from the molecular point of view. Chemical reaction from Dl could certainly be activated. In...requiring both a change in molecular geometry and in spin. In the present case, incidentally, it is difficult to estimate the Ql0-D 0 energy gap because of

  5. Transformation-Induced Diffraction Peak Broadening During Bainitic and Martensitic Transformations Under Small External Loads in a Quenched and Tempered High Strength Steel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dutta, R. K.; Huizenga, R. M.; Amirthalingam, M.; Hermans, M. J. M.; King, A.; Richardson, I. M.

    2013-09-01

    In situ phase transformation behavior of a high strength S690QL1 steel during continuous cooling under different mechanical loading conditions has been used to investigate the effect of small external loads on the transformation-induced plasticity during bainitic and martensitic transformations. The results show that during phase transformations, the untransformed austenite undergoes plastic deformation, thereby retarding further transformation to bainite/martensite. This occurs independent of external load.

  6. Aggressive reproductive competition among hopelessly queenless honeybee workers triggered by pheromone signaling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Malka, O.; Shnieor, S.; Katzav-Gozansky, T.; Hefetz, A.

    2008-06-01

    In the honeybee, Apis mellifera, the queen monopolizes reproduction, while the sterile workers cooperate harmoniously in nest maintenance. However, under queenless (QL) conditions, cooperation collapses and reproductive competition among workers ensues. This is mediated through aggression and worker oviposition, as well as shifts in pheromones, from worker to queen-like composition. Many studies suggest a dichotomy between conflict resolution through aggression or through pheromonal signaling. In this paper, we demonstrate that both phenomena comprise essential components of reproductive competition and that pheromone signaling actually triggers the onset of aggression. We kept workers as QL groups until first aggression was observed and subsequently determined the contestants’ reproductive status and content of the mandibular (MG) and Dufour’s glands (DG). In groups in which aggression occurred early, the attacked bee had consistently more queen-like pheromone in both the MG and DG, although both contestants had undeveloped ovaries. In groups with late aggression, the attacked bee had consistently larger oocytes and more queen-like pheromone in the DG, but not the MG. We suggest that at early stages of competition, the MG secretion is utilized to establish dominance and that the DG provides an honest fertility signal. We further argue that it is the higher amount of DG pheromone that triggers aggression.

  7. Electrochemical oxidation of nitrogen-heterocyclic compounds at boron-doped diamond electrode.

    PubMed

    Xing, Xuan; Zhu, Xiuping; Li, Hongna; Jiang, Yi; Ni, Jinren

    2012-01-01

    Nitrogen-heterocyclic compounds (NHCs) are toxic and bio-refractory contaminants widely spread in environment. This study investigated electrochemical degradation of NHCs at boron-doped diamond (BDD) anode with particular attention to the effect of different number and position of nitrogen atoms in molecular structure. Five classical NHCs with similar structures including indole (ID), quinoline (QL), isoquinoline (IQL), benzotriazole (BT) and benzimidazole (BM) were selected as the target compounds. Results of bulk electrolysis showed that degradation of all NHCs was fit to a pseudo first-order equation. The five compounds were degraded with the following sequence: ID>QL>IQL>BT>BM in terms of their rates of oxidation. Quantum chemical calculation was combined with experimental results to describe the degradation character of NHCs at BDD anode. A linear relationship between degradation rate and delocalization energy was observed, which demonstrated that electronic charge was redistributed through the conjugation system and accumulated at the active sites under the attack of hydroxyl radicals produced at BDD anode. Moreover, atom charge was calculated by semi empirical PM3 method and active sites of NHCs were identified respectively. Analysis of intermediates by GC-MS showed agreement with calculation results. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

    Paillard, Pascal

    Two try-out campaigns of friction stir welding (FSW) were performed with different friction parameters to join S690QL high yield strength steel. The welds were investigated at macroscopic and microscopic scales using optical and electronic microscopy and microhardness mapping. Welds of the second campaign exhibit microstructures and mechanical properties in accordance with requirements for service use. Microtexture measurements were carried out in different zones of welds by electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). It is shown that that texture of the bottom of the weld is similar to that of the base metal, suggesting a diffusion bonding mechanism. Finally, the mechanical properties (tensilemore » strength, resilience, bending) were established on the most promising welds. It is shown that it is possible to weld this high yield strength steel using FSW process with satisfactory geometric, microstructural and mechanical properties. - Highlights: •1000 mm ∗ 400 mm ∗ 8 mm S690QL steel plates are joined by friction stir welding (FSW). •Maximum hardness is reduced by optimization of process parameters. •Various microstructures are formed but no martensite after process optimization. •Texture is modified in mechanically affected zones of the weld. •Texture in the bottom of the weld is preserved, suggesting diffusion bonding.« less

  9. The Malaysian Childhood Obesity Treatment Trial (MASCOT).

    PubMed

    Sharifah, W W; Nur, Hana H; Ruzita, A T; Roslee, R; Reilly, J J

    2011-08-01

    The present study describes a randomised controlled trial (RCT) based on a novel, generalisable intervention for childhood obesity, comparing the intervention with a no-treatment control group. The Malaysian Childhood Obesity Treatment Trial (MASCOT) was a single-blind RCT of a dietetic treatment for childhood obesity in children of primary school age (7 to 11 years old) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The MASCOT comprising eight sessions, of an 8-hour family-centred group treatment programme is described, based on behavioural change techniques. The study sample was characterised by BMI z-score, health related quality of life reported by participants and their parents (PedsQL questionnaire), objectively measured habitual physical activity and sedentary behaviour (Actigraph accelerometry) The MASCOT sample of 107 children was characterised by a low quality of life, mean total score on PedsQL 67.7 (4.5) as reported by the children, and 66.0 (16.4) as reported by their parents. The children spent, on average, 89% of their waking day on sedentary activity, and 1% of the day in moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity, equivalent to only around 8 minutes/day. Obese children in the MASCOT study had an impaired quality of life, high levels of sedentary behaviour and very low levels of physical activity.

  10. Quality of life in healthy children and in children with tension headaches--a comparative analysis.

    PubMed

    Talarska, D

    2005-01-01

    The aim of this study was the assessment of the quality of life of children and adolescents with tension headaches in comparison with healthy peers. The study was conducted on 135 middle school and high school students in Poznań and on 86 children with tension headaches, that were treated in the out-patient clinic of The Chair and Clinic of Development Age Neurology of Karol Marcinkowski University of Medical Sciences in Poznań. The research tool for both groups was Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, version 4.0 (PedsQL 4.0) questionnaire. In the analysed groups dominated 14- and 16-year-old children. Among children with tension headaches, the ailments usually appeared once or twice a week in 39 (45%) of them. With the use of the PedsQL 4.0 questionnaire the following fields of activity were analyzed: biological, emotional, social functioning and mood. The biggest discrepancies between the group of healthy children and those with headaches were noted in the field of emotional functioning and mood. Adolescents with tension headaches more frequently reported the feeling of fear and sleep disorders in comparison to healthy students. Children with headaches look at the future in a more pessimistic way and are less satisfied with their lives.

  11. Factors Affecting Health-Related Quality of Life in Children Undergoing Curative Treatment for Cancer: A Review of the Literature.

    PubMed

    Momani, Tha'er G; Hathaway, Donna K; Mandrell, Belinda N

    2016-01-01

    Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important measure to evaluate a child's reported treatment experience. Although there are numerous studies of HRQoL in children undergoing curative cancer treatment, there is limited literature on factors that influence this. To review published studies that describe the HRQoL and associated factors in children undergoing curative cancer treatment. Full-text publications in English from January 2005 to March 2013 were searched in PubMed, PsychINFO, and CINAHL for children ≤18 years of age undergoing curative cancer treatment. HRQoL-associated factors were categorized as cancer diagnosis, treatment, child, family, and community. Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently used generic and cancer-specific instruments were PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) Generic and PedsQL Cancer, respectively. Cancer diagnosis and treatment were the most frequently identified variables; fewer studies measured family and community domains. Gender, treatment intensity, type of cancer treatments, time in treatment, and cancer diagnosis were correlated with HRQoL. Our study highlights the need to develop interventions based on diagnosis and treatment regimen to improve the HRQoL in children undergoing curative cancer treatment. © 2015 by Association of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses.

  12. Interspecies differences and variability with time of protein precipitation activity of extractable tannins, crude protein, ash, and dry matter content of leaves from 13 species of Nepalese fodder trees.

    PubMed

    Wood, C D; Tiwari, B N; Plumb, V E; Powell, C J; Roberts, B T; Padmini Sirimane, V D; Rossiter, J T; Gill, M

    1994-12-01

    Dry matter, ash, crude protein, and protein precipitation activity (PPA) of 13 Nepalese tree fodder species were monitored in dried samples prepared monthly between November 1990 and May 1991, and additionally in November 1991, covering the season when they are particularly important as fodder. Monthly levels of dry matter, ash, and crude protein were fairly stable except when there was new leaf growth, although year to year differences in dry matter were found inBrassaiopsis hainla (Bh),Dendrocalamus strictus (Ds),Ficus roxburghii (Fr), andQuercus semecarpifolia (Qs). Tannin PPA fluctuated considerably inArtocarpus lakoocha (Al),Ficus glaberrima (Fg),F. nerrifolia (Fn), Fr,F. semicordata (Fs),Litsea polyantha (Lp), andPrunus cerasoides (Pc), and to a lesser extent in Bh,Castanopsis indica (Ci),C. tribuloides (Ct),Quercus lamellosa (Ql), and Qs. Similar fluctuations in PPA were observed in fresh leaf samples taken weekly. Ds did not have any detectable PPA. Trends in PPA fluctuation were generally similar for trees located at similar altitudes. Fr, Pc, Al, Fn, Ql, and Ci had falling PPAs before shedding leaves. Some of the fluctuations in Fr, Fs, Fg, Pc, and Lp were apparently due to changes in the extractability and quantity of condensed tannins. These fluctuations in PPA may affect the nutritive value of the fodders.

  13. Gas-phase formaldehyde adsorption isotherm studies on activated carbon: correlations of adsorption capacity to surface functional group density.

    PubMed

    Carter, Ellison M; Katz, Lynn E; Speitel, Gerald E; Ramirez, David

    2011-08-01

    Formaldehyde (HCHO) adsorption isotherms were developed for the first time on three activated carbons representing one activated carbon fiber (ACF) cloth, one all-purpose granular activated carbon (GAC), and one GAC commercially promoted for gas-phase HCHO removal. The three activated carbons were evaluated for HCHO removal in the low-ppm(v) range and for water vapor adsorption from relative pressures of 0.1-0.9 at 26 °C where, according to the IUPAC isotherm classification system, the adsorption isotherms observed exhibited Type V behavior. A Type V adsorption isotherm model recently proposed by Qi and LeVan (Q-L) was selected to model the observed adsorption behavior because it reduces to a finite, nonzero limit at low partial pressures and it describes the entire range of adsorption considered in this study. The Q-L model was applied to a polar organic adsorbate to fit HCHO adsorption isotherms for the three activated carbons. The physical and chemical characteristics of the activated carbon surfaces were characterized using nitrogen adsorption isotherms, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Boehm titrations. At low concentrations, HCHO adsorption capacity was most strongly related to the density of basic surface functional groups (SFGs), while water vapor adsorption was most strongly influenced by the density of acidic SFGs.

  14. Reduced quality of life in children with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease.

    PubMed

    Marlais, M; Fishman, J R; Köglmeier, J; Fell, J M E; Rawat, D J

    2010-03-01

    To assess self-reported Quality of life (QoL) in children with Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) aged 5-18 and compare this with both disease and healthy control children in a prospective consecutive sample. All children attending a tertiary paediatric gastroenterology clinic from February 2009 to May 2009 with GORD, chronic constipation and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were asked to complete the validated PedsQL generic QoL assessment (self-report) at their clinic appointment. The PedsQL considers physical, emotional, social and school domains and is scored from 0 to 100. Healthy children were also recruited from the same site. Groups were compared using the independent samples Student's t-test. A total of 184 children completed the assessment [103 (56%) male, mean age 10.7 years +/- 3.3] including 40 children with GORD, 44 with chronic constipation, 59 with IBD and 41 healthy children. QoL was significantly lower in the GORD group compared with both children with IBD (74 vs. 82) and healthy children (74 vs. 84), and was comparable to that of children with chronic constipation (74 vs. 74). Self-reported QoL in children with GORD attending a tertiary paediatric gastroenterology clinic is significantly reduced compared with both healthy children and children with IBD.

  15. Holocene ice marginal fluctuations of the Qassimiut lobe in South Greenland

    PubMed Central

    Larsen, Nicolaj K.; Find, Jesper; Kristensen, Anders; Bjørk, Anders A.; Kjeldsen, Kristian K.; Odgaard, Bent V.; Olsen, Jesper; Kjær, Kurt H.

    2016-01-01

    Knowledge about the Holocene evolution of the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) is important to put the recent observations of ice loss into a longer-term perspective. In this study, we use six new threshold lake records supplemented with two existing lake records to reconstruct the Holocene ice marginal fluctuations of the Qassimiut lobe (QL) – one of the most dynamic parts of the GrIS in South Greenland. Times when the ice margin was close to present extent are characterized by clastic input from the glacier meltwater, whereas periods when the ice margin was behind its present day extent comprise organic-rich sediments. We find that the overall pattern suggests that the central part of the ice lobe in low-lying areas experienced the most prolonged ice retreat from ~9–0.4 cal. ka BP, whereas the more distal parts of the ice lobe at higher elevation re-advanced and remained close to the present extent during the Neoglacial between ~4.4 and 1.8 cal. ka BP. These results demonstrate that the QL was primarily driven by Holocene climate changes, but also emphasises the role of local topography on the ice marginal fluctuations. PMID:26940998

  16. Development of the Teen Oral Health-Related Quality of Life Instrument.

    PubMed

    Wright, Wanda G; Spiro, Avron; Jones, Judith A; Rich, Sharron E; Garcia, Raul I

    2017-03-01

    The aim of this study was to develop the Teen Oral Health-Related Quality of Life instrument (TOQOL) and demonstrate its validity and reliability in a diverse sample of 13-18-year-old adolescents. A total of 363 adolescents aged 13-18 years participated in this cross sectional study. Oral screening examinations were conducted to collect oral health status data. Adolescents completed the TOQOL and a generic measure of health-related quality of life, the PedsQL. The psychometric properties of the TOQOL were evaluated in terms of face, content, convergent, concurrent and discriminant validity in addition to internal reliability. The 16-item TOQOL covers five domains: Physical functioning, Role functioning, Social functioning, Oral problems, and Emotional functioning. The total scale and subscales showed satisfactory reliability with Cronbach alpha ranging from 0.75 to 0.92. TOQOL scores showed significant associations with perceived oral health status and the PedsQL (convergent validity) and discriminated well between adolescents with caries and adolescents who were caries free (discriminate validity). The TOQOL is a valid and reliable oral health-related quality of life measurement that can be recommended for self-report in adolescents aged 13-18 years. © 2016 American Association of Public Health Dentistry.

  17. Scanning tunneling spectroscopic (STS) studies of the bulk magnetic doping effects on the surface state of Bi2Se3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, C.-C.; Teague, M. L.; Woodward, N. D.; Yeh, N.-C.; He, L.; Kou, X.; Lang, M.; Wang, K.-L.

    2014-03-01

    We report STS studies of MBE-grown undoped and Cr-doped Bi2Se3 bi-layers on InP (111) and as a function of the updoped layer thickness and the Cr-doping level (x) . Our studies reveal gapless Dirac spectra at all temperatures (T) for samples with an undoped top layer larger than 5 QLs, implying that the interlayer magnetic correlation length ξ⊥ is < ~ 5-QL. For samples with an undoped top layer smaller than 5 QLs, STS reveals gapped spectra at T QL. We also find spatially localized double and single resonance peaks in the gapless regions, and their areal densities peak near Tc. We attribute the resonance sites to isolated Cr impurities, which couple with the spins of surrounding Dirac electrons and form localized topological spin textures of a long lifetime. With increasing interlayer magnetic field, the resonance sites diminish and the gap distribution becomes more homogeneous. Work supported by DARPA.

  18. Music therapy in pediatric palliative care: family-centered care to enhance quality of life.

    PubMed

    Lindenfelser, Kathryn J; Hense, Cherry; McFerran, Katrina

    2012-05-01

    Research into the value of music therapy in pediatric palliative care (PPC) has identified quality of life as one area of improvement for families caring for a child in the terminal stages of a life-threatening illness. This small-scale investigation collected data in a multisite, international study including Minnesota, USA, and Melbourne, Australia. An exploratory mixed method design used the qualitative data collected through interviews with parents to interpret results from the PedsQL Family Impact Module of overall parental quality of life. Parents described music therapy as resulting in physical improvements of their child by providing comfort and stimulation. They also valued the positive experiences shared by the family in music therapy sessions that were strength oriented and family centered. This highlighted the physical and communication scales within the PedsQL Family Impact Module, where minimal improvements were achieved in contrast to some strong results suggesting diminished quality of life in cognitive and daily activity domains. Despite the significant challenges faced by parents during this difficult time, parents described many positive experiences in music therapy, and the overall score for half of the parents in the study did not diminish. The value of music therapy as a service that addresses the family-centered agenda of PPC is endorsed by this study.

  19. Gq protein mediates UVB-induced cyclooxygenase-2 expression by stimulating HB-EGF secretion from HaCaT human keratinocytes

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

    Seo, MiRan; Juhnn, Yong-Sung, E-mail: juhnn@snu.ac.kr

    Ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces cyclooxygenase-2 expression to produce cellular responses including aging and carcinogenesis in skin. We hypothesised that heterotrimeric G proteins mediate UV-induced COX-2 expression by stimulating secretion of soluble HB-EGF (sHB-EGF). In this study, we aimed to elucidate the role and underlying mechanism of the {alpha} subunit of Gq protein (G{alpha}q) in UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion and COX-2 induction. We found that expression of constitutively active G{alpha}q (G{alpha}qQL) augmented UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion, which was abolished by knockdown of G{alpha}q with shRNA in HaCaT human keratinocytes. G{alpha}q was found to mediate the UVB-induced HB-EGF secretion by sequential activation of phospholipasemore » C (PLC), protein kinase C{delta} (PKC{delta}), and matrix metaloprotease-2 (MMP-2). Moreover, G{alpha}qQL mediated UVB-induced COX-2 expression in an HB-EGF-, EGFR-, and p38-dependent manner. From these results, we concluded that G{alpha}q mediates UV-induced COX-2 expression through activation of EGFR by HB-EGF, of which ectodomain shedding was stimulated through sequential activation of PLC, PKC{delta} and MMP-2 in HaCaT cells.« less

  20. Ion Acceleration by Multiple Reflections at Martian Bow Shock

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamauchi, M.; Futaana, Y.; Fedorov, A.; Frahm, R. A.; Dubinin, E.; Lundin, R.; Sauvaud, J.-A.; Winningham, J. D.; Barabash, S.; Holmström, H.

    2012-04-01

    The ion mass analyzer (IMA) on board Mars Express revealed bundled structures of ions in the energy domain within a distance of a proton gyroradius from the Martian bow shock. Seven prominent traversals during 2005 were examined when the energy-bunched structure was observed together with pick-up ions of exospheric origin, the latter of which is used to determine the local magnetic field orientation from its circular trajectory in velocity space. These seven traversals include different bow shock configurations: (a) quasi-perpendicular shock with its specular direction of the solar wind more perpendicular to the magnetic field (QT), (b) quasi-perpendicular shock with its specular reflection direction of the solar wind more along the magnetic field (FS), and (c) quasi-parallel (QL) shock. In all seven cases, the velocity components of the energy-bunched structure are consistent with multiple specular reflections of the solar wind at the bow shock up to at least two reflections. The accelerated solar wind ions after two specular reflections have large parallel components with respect to the magnetic field for the QL shock whereas the field-aligned speed is much smaller than the perpendicular speed for the QT shock. The reflected ions escape into the solar wind when and only when the reflection is in the field-aligned direction.

  1. Preparation, spectroscopic and thermal characterization of new charge-transfer complexes of ethidium bromide with π-acceptors. In vitro biological activity studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Eldaroti, Hala H.; Gadir, Suad A.; Refat, Moamen S.; Adam, Abdel Majid A.

    2013-05-01

    Ethidium bromide (EtBr) is a strong DNA binder and has been widely used to probe DNA structure in drug-DNA and protein-DNA interaction. Four new charge-transfer (CT) complexes consisting of EtBr as donor and quinol (QL), picric acid (PA), tetracyanoquinodimethane (TCNQ) or dichlorodicyanobenzoquinone (DDQ) as acceptors, were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, electronic absorption, spectrophotometric titration, IR, Raman, 1H NMR and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) techniques. The stoichiometry of these complexes was found to be 1:2 ratio and having the formula [(EtBr)(acceptor)]. The thermal stability of the synthesized CT complexes was investigated using thermogravimetric (TG) analyses, and the morphology and particle size of these complexes were obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The CT complexes were also tested for its antibacterial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis and two Gram-negative bacteria; Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeuroginosa strains by using Tetracycline as standard and antifungal property against Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans by using amphotericin B as standard. The results were compared with the standard drugs and significant conclusions were obtained. The results indicated that the [(EtBr)(QL)2] complex had exerted excellent inhibitory activity against the growth of the tested bacterial strains.

  2. Effectiveness of equine therapy in children with psychomotor impairment.

    PubMed

    Del Rosario-Montejo, O; Molina-Rueda, F; Muñoz-Lasa, S; Alguacil-Diego, I M

    2015-09-01

    Equine therapy, an intervention method that has been practiced for decades around the world, is used to treat patients susceptible to psychomotor delays. We examine development of gross motor function compared to other psychomotor skills in patients undergoing this therapy, and analyse how this improvement affects general health status and quality of life. The study includes 11 children with delayed psychomotor development (aged 8.82 ± 3.89; 6 boys, 5 girls). The main study variables were gross motor function (GMFM-88) and perceived quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, PedsQL). Three measurements were performed: before and after a period of inactivity, and once again 2 months after the second measurement, following completion of a sustained period of therapy. We observed significant differences in overall results on the GMFM-88 between the initial and final tests and between the intermediate and final tests. Regarding the PedsQL quality of life scale, no statistically significant results were recorded. Noticeable changes in motor control were recorded throughout the course of the intervention, which suggests that equine therapy may be appropriate treatment in cases of delayed psychomotor development. Copyright © 2013 Sociedad Española de Neurología. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

  3. Proceedings of the Ship Control Systems Symposium (5th), Held at U. S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland on October 30 - November 3, 1978. Volume 5,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1978-11-03

    shipboard navigational aids (instrumentation) and enviromental navigational aid (buoys and other fixed references). The types of shipboard...life experiences of pilots. Ql 3-5 work t the direct indirectI I I authori1ties ’ mental standby physical travel home etc.! domestictypes of l / social ...the shipping industry, all sides of it, needs to take a long hard look at itself and get up-to-date for social as well as eccnomic reasons. Criteria

  4. Air Force Audit Agency Management Information System

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-11-01

    Support Directorate. AFAA/QL performs multilocation . Air Force-wide audits and issues reports to the SAF. It, however, specializes in the multibillion...USE ONLY (Leave blank) 2. REPORT DATE 3. REPORT TYPE AND DATES COVERED NOV 90 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE S. FUNDING NUMBERS Air Force Audit Agency...appreciated. Mail them to: CADRE/RI, Building 1400, Maxwell AFB AL 36112-5532.• Air Force Audit Agency Management Hobbs Information System C 0* 0 0

  5. Comparative functional anatomy of the epaxial musculature of dogs (Canis familiaris) bred for sprinting vs. fighting.

    PubMed

    Webster, Emma L; Hudson, Penny E; Channon, Sarah B

    2014-09-01

    The axial musculoskeletal system of quadrupedal mammals is not currently well understood despite its functional importance in terms of facilitating postural stability and locomotion. Here we examined the detailed architecture of the muscles of the vertebral column of two breeds of dog, the Staffordshire bull terrier (SBT) and the racing greyhound, which have been selectively bred for physical combat and high speed sprint performance, respectively. Dissections of the epaxial musculature of nine racing greyhounds and six SBTs were carried out; muscle mass, length, and fascicle lengths were measured and used to calculate muscle physiological cross-sectional area (PCSA), and to estimate maximum muscle potential for force, work and power production. The longissimus dorsi muscle was found to have a high propensity for force production in both breeds of dog; however, when considered in combination with the iliocostalis lumborum muscle it showed enhanced potential for production of power and facilitating spinal extension during galloping gaits. This was particularly the case in the greyhound, where the m. longissimus dorsi and the m. iliocostalis lumborum were estimated to have the potential to augment hindlimb muscle power by ca. 12%. Breed differences were found within various other muscles of the axial musculoskeletal system, particularly in the cranial cervical muscles and also the deep muscles of the thorax which insert on the ribs. These may also highlight key functional adaptations between the two breeds of dog, which have been selectively bred for particular purposes. Additionally, in both breeds of dog, we illustrate specialisation of muscle function by spinal region, with differences in both mass and PCSA found between muscles at varying levels of the axial musculoskeletal system, and between muscle functional groups. © 2014 Anatomical Society.

  6. Internal Oblique and Transversus Abdominis Muscle Fatigue Induced by Slumped Sitting Posture after 1 Hour of Sitting in Office Workers

    PubMed Central

    Waongenngarm, Pooriput; Rajaratnam, Bala S.; Janwantanakul, Prawit

    2015-01-01

    Background Prolonged sitting leads to low back discomfort and lumbopelvic muscle fatigue. This study examined the characteristics of body perceived discomfort and trunk muscle fatigue during 1 hour of sitting in three postures in office workers. Methods Thirty workers sat for 1 hour in one of three sitting postures (i.e., upright, slumped, and forward leaning postures). Body discomfort was assessed using the Body Perceived Discomfort scale at the beginning and after 1 hour of sitting. Electromyographic (EMG) signals were recorded from superficial lumbar multifidus, iliocostalis lumborum pars thoracis, internal oblique (IO)/transversus abdominis (TrA), and rectus abdominis muscles during 1 hour of sitting. The median frequency (MDF) of the EMG power spectrum was calculated. Results Regardless of the sitting posture, the Body Perceived Discomfort scores in the neck, shoulder, upper back, low back, and buttock significantly increased after 1 hour of sitting compared with baseline values (t(9) = −11.97 to −2.69, p < 0.05). The MDF value of the EMG signal of rectus abdominis, iliocostalis lumborum pars thoracis, and multifidus muscles was unchanged over time in all three sitting postures. Only the right and left IO/TrA in the slumped sitting posture was significantly associated with decreased MDF over time (p = 0.019 to 0.041). Conclusion Prolonged sitting led to increased body discomfort in the neck, shoulder, upper back, low back, and buttock. No sign of trunk muscle fatigue was detected over 1 hour of sitting in the upright and forward leaning postures. Prolonged slumped sitting may relate to IO/TrA muscle fatigue, which may compromise the stability of the spine, making it susceptible to injury. PMID:27014491

  7. Factors influencing self- and parent-reporting health-related quality of life in children with brain tumors.

    PubMed

    Sato, Iori; Higuchi, Akiko; Yanagisawa, Takaaki; Mukasa, Akitake; Ida, Kohmei; Sawamura, Yutaka; Sugiyama, Kazuhiko; Saito, Nobuhito; Kumabe, Toshihiro; Terasaki, Mizuhiko; Nishikawa, Ryo; Ishida, Yasushi; Kamibeppu, Kiyoko

    2013-02-01

    Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is not only a degree of health but also reflects patient perceptions and expectations of health. For children with brain tumors, better understanding of HRQOL requires the use of complementary reports from parents and interviewer-administered reports for children. Here, we aimed to test whether or not the trait anxiety of children and the psychological distress of their parents influence children's and parents' responses to HRQOL questionnaires, and whether or not the report-administration method for children influences children's responses to HRQOL questionnaires. One hundred and thirty-four children aged 5-18 with brain tumors and one of their parents completed the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory(™) (PedsQL(™)) Brain Tumor Module questionnaires. In addition, the children also completed the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC), and the parents also completed the Kessler-10 (K10) and health and sociodemographic characteristics questionnaires. The child questionnaires were administered either by the child (self-administered) or an interviewer. Rater-dependent perceptions about HRQOL were derived from the subscales scores of the PedsQL(™) Brain Tumor Module using structural equation modeling based on a multitrait-multimethod model. The STAIC trait-anxiety score, K10 score, report-administration method, and other health and sociodemographic factors related to each child's or parent's perceptions were identified through multiple linear regression analyses of the questionnaire responses. We used a path analysis to estimate the change in a PedsQL(™) child-reported score that occurs when interviewer-administration changes the child's perception about HRQOL. Surveys for 89 children were self-administered while those for 45 were interviewer-administered. The perceptions of the children and parents were calculated by fitting data to the model (chi-squared P = 0.087, normed fit index = 0.932, comparative fit

  8. Relationship between colorimetric (instrumental) evaluation and consumer-defined beef colour acceptability.

    PubMed

    Holman, Benjamin W B; Mao, Yanwei; Coombs, Cassius E O; van de Ven, Remy J; Hopkins, David L

    2016-11-01

    The relationship between instrumental colorimetric values (L*, a*, b*, the ratio of reflectance at 630nm and 580nm) and consumer perception of acceptable beef colour was evaluated using a web-based survey and standardised photographs of beef m. longissimus lumborum with known colorimetrics. Only L* and b* were found to relate to average consumer opinions of beef colour acceptability. Respondent nationality was also identified as a source of variation in beef colour acceptability score. Although this is a preliminary study with the findings necessitating additional investigation, these results suggest L* and b* as candidates for developing instrumental thresholds for consumer beef colour expectations. Crown Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Psychosocial problems of children whose parents visit the emergency department due to intimate partner violence, substance abuse or a suicide attempt.

    PubMed

    Hoytema van Konijnenburg, E M M; van der Lee, J H; Teeuw, A H; Lindeboom, R; Brilleslijper-Kater, S N; Sieswerda-Hoogendoorn, T; van Goudoever, J B; Lindauer, R J L

    2017-05-01

    High levels of maltreatment are found in children who are identified because their parents visit the emergency department due to partner violence, substance abuse or suicide attempt. However, it is unknown if these children experience psychosocial problems. This study aims to assess their levels of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, behavioural problems and health-related quality of life. A cross-sectional study was conducted in six hospitals. All consecutive families of which a parent visited the emergency department due to partner violence, substance abuse or suicide attempt between 1 July 2012 and 1 March 2014 with children aged 1.5-17 years were approached for participation. Parents and children aged 8 years and older filled out questionnaires measuring post-traumatic stress [13-item version of Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale (CRIES-13)], anxiety, depression (Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale), behavioural problems [Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Youth Self-Report (YSR)] and health-related quality of life (PedsQL). Scores of participants were compared with reference data obtained in children in similar age ranges from representative Dutch community samples (CRIES-13, Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale, PedsQL and CBCL) and to a normed cutoff score (CRIES-13). Of 195 eligible families, 89 (46%) participated in the study. Participating children did not score different from community children, both on child-reported and parent-reported instruments. Standardized mean differences of total sum scores were 0 (CRIES-13 and CBCL 1.5-5), 0.1 (YSR), 0.2 (CBCL 6-18) and -0.3 (PedsQL) and not statistically different from community children. Thirty-five percent of the participating children scored above the cutoff score on the CRIES-13, indicating post-traumatic stress disorder, but this difference was not statistically significant from community children (mean difference 8%; 95% CI -4-22%). We found no differences in psychosocial

  10. Effect of aripiprazole 2 to 15 mg/d on health-related quality of life in the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder in children: a post hoc analysis of two controlled trials.

    PubMed

    Varni, James W; Handen, Benjamin L; Corey-Lisle, Patricia K; Guo, Zhenchao; Manos, George; Ammerman, Diane K; Marcus, Ronald N; Owen, Randall; McQuade, Robert D; Carson, William H; Mathew, Suja; Mankoski, Raymond

    2012-04-01

    There are limited published data on the impact of treatment on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in individuals with autistic disorder. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of aripiprazole on HRQOL in the treatment of irritability in pediatric patients (aged 6-17 years) with autistic disorder. This post hoc analysis assessed data from two 8-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled studies that compared the efficacy of aripiprazole (fixed-dose study, 5, 10, and 15 mg/d; flexible-dose study, 2-15 mg/d) with placebo in the treatment of irritability associated with autistic disorder. HRQOL was assessed at baseline and week 8 using 3 Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL™) scales. Clinically relevant improvement in HRQOL was determined using an accepted distribution-based criterion-1 standard error of measurement. In total, 316 patients were randomly assigned to receive treatment with aripiprazole (fixed-dose study, 166; flexible-dose study, 47) or placebo (fixed-dose study, 52; flexible-dose study, 51). Aripiprazole was associated with significantly greater improvement than placebo in PedsQL combined-scales total score (difference, 7.8; 95% CI, 3.8-11.8; P < 0.001) and in 3 PedsQL scale scores (differences [95% CI]: Emotional Functioning, 7.8 [3.4-12.2]; Social Functioning, 6.2 [0.7-11.8]; Cognitive Functioning, 9.3 [3.8-14.9]; all, P < 0.05). Patients who received aripiprazole were significantly more likely than those who received placebo to have a clinically meaningful improvement on the combined-scales total score (odds ratio [OR] = 1.9; 95% CI, 1.0-3.3; P < 0.05), Emotional Functioning scale (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-4.0; P < 0.05) and Social Functioning scale (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-4.1; P < 0.05), and were significantly less likely to experience deterioration (OR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1-0.8; P < 0.05) when "Stable" was used as the reference group. The findings from the present post hoc analysis suggest that aripiprazole was associated

  11. Children with congenital limb deficiency in Norway: issues related to school life and health-related quality of life. A cross-sectional study.

    PubMed

    Johansen, Heidi; Dammann, Brede; Øinæs Andersen, Liv; Andresen, Inger-Lise

    2016-09-01

    To describe clinical features, issues related to school life and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) for children with congenital limb deficiency (CLD) and compare these children to Norwegian school children on HRQOL. Cross-sectional study. In 2010, a postal questionnaire, designed for this study and the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), was sent to 154 eligible parents of children with CLD, aged 6-18 years and registered at TRS National Resource Centre for Rare Disorders in Norway. Response rate 44% (n = 67), median age 11 years, 42% were girls. Of the total group, 46 had unilateral upper limb deficiency (UULD) and 21 had multiple/lower limb deficiency (MLD/LLD). The most common UULD was below-elbow deficiency, of these, 65% used grip-improving devices, and 35% used prostheses. Children with UULD-reported PedsQL score similar to Norwegian schoolchildren (NSC). The MLD/LLD group was heterogeneous; most had below-elbow/knee deficiency. In this group, PedsQL scores were reduced for physical and social functioning compared with NSC. Compared with children with UULD, more children with MLD/LLD were restricted in participation because of pain and fewer participated in physical education with peers. Most children with CLD participated with their peers and managed well in everyday life. Children with MLD/LLD seemed to have more challenges than children with UULD. Approximately one-third of all the children had assistive devices and/or practical assistance in school. Implications for Rehabilitation Most children with upper-limb deficiency (UULD) in Norway manage well in everyday life and have HRQOL equal to other Norwegian children. Many choose grip-improving devices instead of prostheses. Their preferences should be respected and taken into account as the need for new assistive devices arise. For children with pronounced disabilities, access to, and use of, assistive devices, adaptions and practical assistance may be important for participation

  12. Quality of life in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast treated with conservative surgery and postoperative irradiation.

    PubMed

    Amichetti, M; Caffo, O; Arcicasa, M; Roncadin, M; Lora, O; Rigon, A; Zini, G; Armaroli, L; Coghetto, F; Zorat, P; Neri, S; Teodorani, N

    1999-03-01

    To evaluate the quality of life (QL) in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast treated with conservative surgery and postoperative irradiation. A self-completed questionnaire covering many disease-, symptom-, and treatment-specific issues was administered to 106 conservatively treated patients affected by non-infiltrating breast cancer. The questionnaire was based on a series of 34 items assessing five main fields of post-treatment adjustment: physical well being, sexual adaptation, aesthetic outcome, emotional/psychological well being, relational behaviour. Furthermore, the patients were requested to evaluate the degree of information provided by the medical staff concerning surgical procedures and radiation therapy, and to evaluate the effects of the treatment on their social and overall life. The questionnaire was completed by 83 patients (78%), who had a median follow-up of 54.5 months. This final sample had a median age of 50 years (range 29-88) at the time of treatment and 54 years (range 32-94) at the time of study. The patients claimed to be in good physical condition. Data relating to sexual life were provided by 93% of the sample. Some limitations in sexuality, some interference with sexual desire, and some modifications during intercourse were reported by 5, 6, and 5 patients, respectively. The subjective evaluations of the cosmetic results of the therapies were generally good. Only 13 patients (16%) reported the perception of a worsened body image. Forty-six percent of the sample (38 patients) declared that they felt tense, 48% (39 patients) nervous, 29% (38 patients) lonely, 59% (41 patients) anxious, and 41% (34 patients) depressed. Only seven patients (8%) declared that the treatment had had a bad effect on their social life, and 15 (18%) thought that their current life had been affected by the treatment. The amount of information received concerning the disease and treatment (surgery and radiotherapy) was considered sufficient by 79

  13. Three-dimensional inversion of multisource array electromagnetic data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tartaras, Efthimios

    Three-dimensional (3-D) inversion is increasingly important for the correct interpretation of geophysical data sets in complex environments. To this effect, several approximate solutions have been developed that allow the construction of relatively fast inversion schemes. One such method that is fast and provides satisfactory accuracy is the quasi-linear (QL) approximation. It has, however, the drawback that it is source-dependent and, therefore, impractical in situations where multiple transmitters in different positions are employed. I have, therefore, developed a localized form of the QL approximation that is source-independent. This so-called localized quasi-linear (LQL) approximation can have a scalar, a diagonal, or a full tensor form. Numerical examples of its comparison with the full integral equation solution, the Born approximation, and the original QL approximation are given. The objective behind developing this approximation is to use it in a fast 3-D inversion scheme appropriate for multisource array data such as those collected in airborne surveys, cross-well logging, and other similar geophysical applications. I have developed such an inversion scheme using the scalar and diagonal LQL approximation. It reduces the original nonlinear inverse electromagnetic (EM) problem to three linear inverse problems. The first of these problems is solved using a weighted regularized linear conjugate gradient method, whereas the last two are solved in the least squares sense. The algorithm I developed provides the option of obtaining either smooth or focused inversion images. I have applied the 3-D LQL inversion to synthetic 3-D EM data that simulate a helicopter-borne survey over different earth models. The results demonstrate the stability and efficiency of the method and show that the LQL approximation can be a practical solution to the problem of 3-D inversion of multisource array frequency-domain EM data. I have also applied the method to helicopter-borne EM

  14. Depression and quality of life in children with sickle cell disease: the effect of social support.

    PubMed

    Sehlo, Mohammad Gamal; Kamfar, Hayat Zakaria

    2015-04-11

    The majority of available studies have shown that children with sickle cell disease (SCD) have a higher risk of depressive symptoms than those without. The present study aimed to: assess the prevalence of depression in a sample of children with SCD; evaluate the association between disease severity, social support and depression, and the combined and/or singular effect on health-related quality of life (HRQL) in children with SCD; and show the predictive value of social support and disease severity on depression. A total of 120 children were included in the study, 60 (group I) with SCD and 60 matched, healthy control children (group II). Depression was assessed in both groups using the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI) and the Children's Depression Inventory-Parent (CDI-P). Children with CDI and CDI-P scores of more than 12 were interviewed for further assessment of depression using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children Version IV (DISC-IV). The Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 Generic Core Scales (PedsQL 4.0) was used to assess HRQL in both groups, and social support was measured with the Child and Adolescent Social Support Scale (CASSS). Eight (13%) of the 60 children with SCD had CDI and CDI-P scores of more than 12 (CDI mean score 14.50 ± 1.19, CDI-P mean score 14.13 ± 1.12), and were diagnosed as having clinical depression using the diagnostic interview DISC-IV. For group I, HRQL was poor across all PedsQL 4.0 domains in both self- and parent-reports (P < 0.001) compared with group II. A higher level of parent support was a significantly associated with decreased depressive symptoms, demonstrated by lower CDI scores. Better quality of life was shown by the associated higher total PedsQL 4.0 self-scores of children with SCD (B = -1.79, P = 0.01 and B = 1.89, P = 0.02 respectively). The present study demonstrates that higher levels of parent support were significantly associated with decreased depressive

  15. Design of an Anticancer Copper(II) Prodrug Based on the Lys199 Residue of the Active Targeting Human Serum Albumin Nanoparticle Carrier.

    PubMed

    Gou, Yi; Zhang, Yao; Zhang, Zhenlei; Wang, Jun; Zhou, Zuping; Liang, Hong; Yang, Feng

    2017-06-05

    We not only modified the types and numbers of coordinated ligands in a metal agent to enhance its anticancer activity, but we also designed a metal prodrug based on the N-donor residues of the human serum albumin (HSA) IIA subdomain to improve its delivery efficiency and selectivity in vivo. However, there may be a conflict in simultaneously achieving the two goals because Lys199 and His242 in the IIA subdomain of HSA can replace its two coordinated ligands, which will decrease its anticancer activity relative to the original metal agent. Thus, to improve the delivery efficiency of the metal agent and simultaneously avoid decreasing its anticancer activity in vivo, we decided to develop an anticancer metal prodrug by regulating its pharmacophore ligand so that it would not be displaced by the Lys199 residue of the folic acid (FA)-functionalized HSA nanoparticle (NP) carrier. To this end, we first synthesized two (E)-N'-(5-chloro-2-hydroxybenzylidene)benzohydrazide Schiff base (HL) Cu(II) compounds by designing a second ligand with a different coordinating atom with Cu 2+ /Cu(L)(QL)(Br) [C1, QL = quinolone] and Cu(L)(DMF)(Br) [C2, DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide]. As revealed by the structures of the two HSA complexes, the Cu compounds bind to the hydrophobic cavity in the HSA IIA subdomain. The QL ligand of C1 is replaced by Lys199, which coordinates with Cu 2+ , whereas the DMF ligand of C2 is kept intact and His242 is replaced with Br - of C2 and coordinates with Cu 2+ . The cytotoxicity of the Cu compounds was enhanced by the FA-HSA NPs in the Bel-7402 cells approximately 2-4-fold; however, they raise the cytotoxicity levels in the normal cells in vitro, and the FA-HSA NPs did not. Importantly, the in vivo data showed that FA-HSA-C2 NPs increased selectivity and the capacity to inhibit tumor growth and were less toxic than HSA-C2 NPs and C2. Moreover, C2/HSA-C2 NPs/FA-HSA-C2 NPs induced Bel-7402 cell death by potentially multiple mechanisms.

  16. Peptide Immunization Against ERG and Immunogenic Mutations to Treat Prostate Cancer

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-09-01

    or erg295 (QlWQFllel) were produced by the nIH tetramer facility at emory Uni- versity (atlanta, ga ). Splenocytes from HHD mice were stained with... 350 –358. 39. Bijker MS, van den Eeden SJ, Franken KL, Melief CJ, Offringa R, et al. (2007) CD8+ CTL priming by exact peptide epitopes in incomplete...Medicine, Atlanta, GA . 3 Department of Medicine, Renal Division, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA Running

  17. Dental Porcelain Furnaces: Test and Evaluation.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-01-01

    D Q)L a ) a) C ) C C C C c *. . 3a)0. >4 a)->4 >4 -, Z 0 -a-’- 4-% a) ( nca )m m nU Cs C ) (3 ) 11) a) a) a3) Q) a) W) a2) C C~~ >4 L > > >1 >1 4 > 4...Fig. 1) is a computerized programmable porcelain furnace with 45 open programs. This unit has a large detachable cathode -ray tube (CRT) screen which

  18. Journal of Special Operations Medicine, Training Supplement. Winter 2011

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-01-01

    hours. 9. Ort/lQped;.;iCompartment $)’ndlQlTle memogemeot: a. AppIV lract~n splints a reqUIred. b. Rease" fractures aod spitnlin position of...Continue analgesia a5 required. 11. ReasSGSS fractures and nGurovaacular slalUl. • • Considef use or traenon S~inl&_ 12. Antlbiolic:s: s...or AGE. A. Arterial gat embolism (AGE) - uncomciooJSf\\ess. paralysis. weakness. fatigue. iatJle araaa Clf abnormal sensations. COfflUlsICIns

  19. Design and Implementation of a Prototype Microcomputer Database Management System for the Standardization of Data Elements for the Department of Defense

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-09-01

    Justification Cat: Left Timeliness Identifier: Qwe (FI] Domain I Def Text: -Press [F3 to nove in/out of the fields below. Use ARROW keys to scroll- Rec: Host...Delete a record Elemont Creator ID: Justification Cat: Left Timeliness Identifier: Qwe [FI) Domain Def Text: - Press (F3) to move in/out of the...Number: 1 Alias Name: Accounting Code Data Value Type ID: QL Max Length Characters: 34 Timeliness ID: Qwe Justification Category: Left Creator ID: Domain

  20. Evaluation of Policy Program Priorities for DoD Program for Fiscal Years 1989 through 1993.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-05-01

    activity on the FY 88 budget, it is impor- tant to bear in mind the following considerations: * Congressional activity appears to have no link to an overall...to implementation of the SITS strategy. These include naval airship (new start); antisurface warfare tor- pedo (new start); and PXM, a patrQl missile... link to an overall strategy, neither to that of the administration nor to one of their own. The Congress continues to act as a body of individuals rather

  1. A Guided Tour of Saada

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Michel, L.; Motch, C.; Nguyen Ngoc, H.; Pineau, F. X.

    2009-09-01

    Saada (http://amwdb.u-strasbg.fr/saada) is a tool for helping astronomers build local archives without writing any code (Michel et al. 2004). Databases created by Saada can host collections of heterogeneous data files. These data collections can also be published in the VO. An overview of the main Saada features is presented in this demo: creation of a basic database, creation of relationships, data searches using SaadaQL, metadata tagging, and use of VO services.

  2. Retrieval Performance Prediction and Document Quality

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-09-01

    can help. However, there are hard-to-expand queries that the method fail to detect. One is “ Legionnaires disease ” [delta average precision (REL-QL...0.248, model comparison score:-0.256 ] where documents can contain the terms “ legionnaire (meaning soldier)” and “ disease ” (and 99 related words...yet not be about Legionnaires ’ disease , leading to a low comparison score despite its hard-to-expand status. 4.5 Summary Several prediction

  3. Fluence-to-dose conversion coefficients for heavy ions calculated using the PHITS code and the ICRP/ICRU adult reference computational phantoms.

    PubMed

    Sato, Tatsuhiko; Endo, Akira; Niita, Koji

    2010-04-21

    The fluence to organ-absorbed-dose and effective-dose conversion coefficients for heavy ions with atomic numbers up to 28 and energies from 1 MeV/nucleon to 100 GeV/nucleon were calculated using the PHITS code coupled to the ICRP/ICRU adult reference computational phantoms, following the instruction given in ICRP Publication 103 (2007 (Oxford: Pergamon)). The conversion coefficients for effective dose equivalents derived using the radiation quality factors of both Q(L) and Q(y) relationships were also estimated, utilizing the functions for calculating the probability densities of absorbed dose in terms of LET (L) and lineal energy (y), respectively, implemented in PHITS. The calculation results indicate that the effective dose can generally give a conservative estimation of the effective dose equivalent for heavy-ion exposure, although it is occasionally too conservative especially for high-energy lighter-ion irradiations. It is also found from the calculation that the conversion coefficients for the Q(y)-based effective dose equivalents are generally smaller than the corresponding Q(L)-based values because of the conceptual difference between LET and y as well as the numerical incompatibility between the Q(L) and Q(y) relationships. The calculated data of these dose conversion coefficients are very useful for the dose estimation of astronauts due to cosmic-ray exposure.

  4. Glutamine prevents gastric oxidative stress in an animal model of portal hypertension gastropathy.

    PubMed

    Marques, Camila; Mauriz, José L; Simonetto, Douglas; Marroni, Claudio A; Tuñon, María J; González-Gallego, Javier; Marrón, Norma P

    2011-01-01

    Portal hypertension (PHI) is a clinical syndrome characterized by increases of the blood flow and/or of the vascular resistance in the portal system. A direct consequence of PHI can appearance different lesions on the gastric mucosa and submucosa, cumulatively termed portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG). To investigate the effects of glutamine on oxidative stress in an experimental model of PHG induced by partial portal vein ligation (PPVL). Portal pressure, transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activity were quantified. Gastric tissue damage was assessed by histological analysis. Oxidative stress was measured by quantification of cytosolic concentration of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), hydroperoxide-initiated chemiluminescence (QL), and nitric oxide (NO) production. Moreover, activities of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and catalase (CAT) were analyzed. Transaminase and alkaline phosphatase activities were not significantly modified by PPVL, indicating absence of liver injury. Histological analysis of gastric sections showed a lost of normal architecture, with edema and vasodilatation. TBARS, QL, and NO production were significantly increased in PPVL animals. A reduction of SOD activity was found. Glutamine administration markedly alleviated histological abnormalities and oxidative stress, normalized SOD activity, and blocked NO overproduction. Our results confirm that the use of molecules with antioxidant capacity can provide protection of the gastric tissue in portal hypertension. Glutamine treatment can be useful to reduce the oxidative damage induced by PHI on gastric tissue.

  5. Discovery of a BTK/MNK Dual Inhibitor for Lymphoma and Leukemia

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Hong; Hu, Chen; Wang, Aoli; Weisberg, Ellen L.; Chen, Yongfei; Yun, Cai-Hong; Wang, Wenchao; Liu, Yan; Liu, Xiaochuan; Tian, Bei; Wang, Jinhua; Zhao, Zheng; Liang, Yanke; Li, Binhua; Wang, Li; Wang, Beilei; Chen, Cheng; Buhrlage, Sara J.; Nonami, Atsushi; Li, Yuyang; Fernandes, Stacey M.; Adamia, Sophia; Stone, Richard M.; Galinsky, Ilene A.; Wang, Xianhuo; Yang, Guang; Griffin, James D.; Brown, Jennifer R.; Eck, Michael J.; Liu, Jing; Gray, Nathanael S.; Liu, Qingsong

    2016-01-01

    BTK kinase is a member of the TEC kinase family and is a key regulator of the B-cell Receptor (BCR)-mediated signaling pathway. It is important for B-cell maturation, proliferation, survival and metastasis. Pharmacological inhibition of BTK is clinically effective against a variety of B-cell malignances, such as MCL, CLL and AML. MNK kinase is one of the key downstream regulators in the RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway and controls protein synthesis via regulating the activity of eIF4E. Inhibition of MNK activity has shown moderate efficacy for AML cell lines proliferation. Through a structure-based drug design approach, we have discovered a selective and potent BTK/MNK dual kinase inhibitor (QL-X-138), which exhibits covalent binding to BTK and non-covalent binding to MNK. Compared to the BTK kinase inhibitor (PCI-32765) and the MNK kinase inhibitor (cercosporamide), QL-X-138 displays a stronger anti-proliferative effect against a variety of B-cell cancer cell lines, as well as AML and CLL primary patient cells. The agent can effectively arrest the growth of lymphoma and leukemia cells at the G0–G1 stage and can induce strong apoptotic cell death. These results demonstrated that simultaneous inhibition of BTK and MNK kinase activity might be a new therapeutic strategy for B-cell malignances. PMID:26165234

  6. Post-traumatic stress disorder and health-related quality of life in the siblings of the pediatric bone marrow transplantation survivors and post-traumatic stress disorder in their mothers.

    PubMed

    Gizli Çoban, Özge; Sürer Adanır, Aslı; Özatalay, Esin

    2017-09-01

    Although BMT is lifesaving in many childhood diseases, it was found to be related to anxiety, depression, and PTSD in parents, and PTSD, anxiety and overall low self-esteem in siblings. Research on siblings' HRQoL is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate PTSD and HRQoL in siblings (donor and non-donor) of pediatric BMT survivors and PTSD in their mothers, compared to the healthy controls. Thirty-five siblings and their mothers and 35 healthy peers and their mothers were recruited as the study group and as the comparison group, respectively. In children, Child PTSD-Reaction Index for PTSD and PedsQL for HRQoL were used. PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version was used for PTSD in mothers. The study group, both children and mothers, obtained significantly higher PTSD rates than the control group. Children in the study group also reported significantly poorer HRQoL than the control group in all scales. As a novel finding, there was a significant negative correlation between siblings' and mothers' PTSD scores and siblings' PedsQL scores, indicating that PTSD symptoms in siblings and mothers significantly led to impairment in siblings' HRQoL or vice versa. Thus, the identification and treatment of siblings and mothers with PTSD seems imperative. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  7. Occupational skin diseases in cleaning and kitchen employees: course and quality of life after measures of secondary individual prevention.

    PubMed

    Soder, Stefanie; Diepgen, Thomas L; Radulescu, Magdalena; Apfelbacher, Christian J; Bruckner, Thomas; Weisshaar, Elke

    2007-08-01

    Cleaning and kitchen employees have an increased risk of suffering from occupational dermatoses. Prevention including improving individual skin care and skin protection behavior, health education, optimizing diagnostics and therapy as well as avoidance of occupational skin disease (BK 5101) is important. Participants in the courses were patients suspected of having an occupational skin disease. Besides socio-demographic and disease-related data, health-related quality of life (QL) was measured using the SF-36 and Skindex-29. One year later all participants were interviewed by telephone about the course of their skin disease. Out of 212 participants, 84.0 % were female. The mean age was 41.6 (SD = 10.8) years.168 patients (79.2 %) suffered from hand dermatitis,with irritant contact dermatitis being the predominant diagnosis (46.2 %,n = 98). One year later 65.4 % (n = 85) of the patients interviewed still suffered from hand dermatitis.9.2 % (n = 12) had meanwhile quit their job due to the skin disease. QL was impaired in all age groups being lower with increasing age of the patients. The follow-up confirmed the positive impact of the skin protection courses on patients' skin disease and well-being. Occupational skin diseases impair health-related quality of life in these professions but disease severity does not seem to play a key role.

  8. Subjective Fatigue in Children With Hearing Loss Assessed Using Self- and Parent-Proxy Report

    PubMed Central

    Gustafson, Samantha J.; Lancaster, Hope; Cho, Sun-Joo; Camarata, Stephen; Bess, Fred H.

    2017-01-01

    Purpose The primary purposes of this study were to examine the effects of hearing loss and respondent type (self- vs. parent-proxy report) on subjective fatigue in children. We also examined associations between child-specific factors and fatigue ratings. Method Subjective fatigue was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL-MFS; Varni, Burwinkle, Katz, Meeske, & Dickinson, 2002). We compared self- and parent-proxy ratings from 60 children with hearing loss (CHL) and 43 children with normal hearing (CNH). The children ranged in age from 6 to 12 years. Results School-age CHL experienced more overall and cognitive fatigue than CNH, although the differences were smaller than previously reported. Parent-proxy report was not strongly associated with child self-report, and parents tended to underestimate their child's fatigue, particularly sleep/rest fatigue. Language ability was also associated with subjective fatigue. For CHL and CNH, as language abilities increased, cognitive fatigue decreased. Conclusions School-age CHL experience more subjective fatigue than CNH. The poor association between parent-proxy and child reports suggests that the parent-proxy version of the PedsQL-MFS should not be used in isolation when assessing fatigue in school-age children. Future research should examine how language abilities may modulate fatigue and its potential academic consequences in CHL. PMID:29049623

  9. A preliminary examination of child well-being of physically abused and neglected children compared to a normative pediatric population.

    PubMed

    Lanier, Paul; Kohl, Patricia L; Raghavan, Ramesh; Auslander, Wendy

    2015-02-01

    Federal mandates require state child welfare systems to monitor and improve outcomes for children in three areas: safety, permanency, and well-being. Research across separate domains of child well-being indicates maltreated children may experience lower pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQL). This study assessed well-being in maltreated children using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL 4.0), a widely used measure of pediatric HRQL. The PedsQL 4.0 was used to assess well-being in a sample of children (N = 129) receiving child welfare services following reports of alleged physical abuse or neglect. We compared total scores and domain scores for this maltreated sample to those of a published normative sample. Within the maltreated sample, we also compared well-being by child and family demographic characteristics. As compared with a normative pediatric population, maltreated children reported significantly lower total, physical, and psychosocial health. We found no significant differences in total and domain scores based on child and parent demographics within the maltreated sample. This preliminary exploration indicates children receiving child welfare services have significantly lower well-being status than the general child population and have considerable deficits in social and emotional functioning. These findings support continued investment in maltreatment prevention and services to improve the well-being of victims of maltreatment. © The Author(s) 2014.

  10. [Outcomes of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with volar locking plates in distal radius fractures: A review].

    PubMed

    Liverneaux, P; Ichihara, S; Facca, S; Hidalgo Diaz, J J

    2016-12-01

    Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) has been used in recent years to treat fractures of the distal radius with volar locking plates. Its advantages are the preservation of the pronator quadratus and good esthetics. The MIPO technique was described originally with two incisions: one distal transverse or longitudinal incision and one proximal longitudinal incision. The trend is now to use a single longitudinal incision less than 20mm long. Functional and radiological outcomes are comparable to those of conventional techniques. The MIPO technique is indicated for extra-articular and intra-articular fractures. Arthroscopy may be used concurrently in the latter case. When the distal radius fracture is associated with a proximal shaft fracture, a double incision is needed to introduce a longer plate. The relative contraindications of the MIPO technique are comminuted intra-articular fractures in osteoporotic elderly patients. If reduction is problematic, a larger incision can easily be made. Copyright © 2016 SFCM. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  11. [Anatomo-functional consideration of an aponeurosis on the caudal radiocarpus in the tiger, lion and domestic cat (Panthera tigris, Panthera leo and Felis catus)].

    PubMed

    Graziotti, G H; Victorica, C L

    1997-09-01

    This study describes a strong aponeurosis on the caudal surface of the antebrachium, between the Mm. Flexoris and the M. pronator quadratus. This aponeurosis has not been experimentally validated. By dissection and macroscopic examination of formaldehyde-prepared material, and experimental surgical transection of the structure in F. catus, the aponeurosis is described and its functional capacity is determined. The origin of the aponeurosis is the Facies caudalis, Margo medialis of the Radius and distal Ulna and inserts on the Crista transversa of the Radius and the Ligg. radiocarpeum palmare and ulno-carpeum palmare, and a strong Pars radialis. Its disposition is similar to that of the supernumerary M. anterior radialis brevis in humans. Surgical transection of the aponeurosis in F. catus resulted in hyperextension of the Manus and a decrease in the Carpus in its weight-bearing ability. These findings indicate the anatomico-functional importance of the aponeurosis in providing support to the claws.

  12. The semi-aquatic freshwater earthworms of the genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 from Thailand (Oligochaeta, Almidae) with re-descriptions of several species

    PubMed Central

    Chanabun, Ratmanee; Sutcharit, Chirasak; Tongkerd, Piyoros; Panha, Somsak

    2013-01-01

    Abstract The semi-aquatic freshwater earthworm genus Glyphidrilus Horst, 1889 from Thailand was investigated based on extensive recent collecting. The species in this genus were characterized by their external and internal morphological characters of the location of wings, genital openings, genital organ structures and their locations, as well as the dimensions of body length and number of segments. Several type specimens were compared with both previous and newly collected materials. Ten new species are described from several river systems in Thailand; as Glyphidrilus borealis sp. n., Glyphidrilus chaophraya sp. n., Glyphidrilus chiensis sp. n., Glyphidrilus huailuangensis sp. n., Glyphidrilus kratuensis sp. n., Glyphidrilus quadratus sp. n., Glyphidrilus trangensis sp. n., Glyphidrilus wararamensis sp. n., Glyphidrilus vangthongensis sp. n. and Glyphidrilus vesper sp. n. Each species is endemic to a single river system. All 26 previously described species are re-described, and eight lectotypes have been designated. An identification key and a morphological comparison summary are provided. PMID:23653518

  13. Distribution of Mosquitoes in the Continental United States.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-12-01

    taenia sapphirina perturbans Wyjeorn7yia smi thi No USAF installations DE LAWARE cantlens is canaderrsii riop."Itan.-3 ql-m cantatorl sit vest ris...atv’atus bahamensis Urano taenia evraticusl- iowii-4.6 ioiambdis sapphirina 4 , Latisquama mul rennafli Wyeomy ia nigri pat-pusl’ 7 haynei opis...septentrionalis Cul-ex lUrano taenia err’aticus2 , 3 lowii nigripal 9us’ 3 sapphirinal1 3*1 pilosus pipiens2,3 Kyeomyia J haynei A mitchzel ii 1

  14. An Assertional Characterization of Serializability and Locking.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-02-09

    number of values i in range R that satisfy P. ifXI 1%, i0 41P ..... 24 N: cfk c-false) specifies that qO contains enough elements for every...ORGANIZATION R % UMBER(S) S. MONITORING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER (S) TR 88-894 -- Office of Naval Research 6a. NAME OF PERFORMING ORGANI7AjjQL.... 6b OFFICE...SPONSORING T8b. OFFICE SYMBOL 9. PROCUREMENT INSTRUMENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER ORGANIZATION (If applicable) Office of Naval Research N00014-86-K-0092

  15. Effects of protein phosphorylation on color stability of ground meat.

    PubMed

    Li, Meng; Li, Xin; Xin, Jianzeng; Li, Zheng; Li, Guixia; Zhang, Yan; Du, Manting; Shen, Qingwu W; Zhang, Dequan

    2017-03-15

    The influence of protein phosphorylation on meat color stability was investigated in this study. Phosphatase and protein kinase inhibitors were added to minced ovine Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) muscle to manipulate the global phosphorylation of sarcoplasmic proteins. The data obtained show that the rate and extent of pH decline, along with lactate accumulation in postmortem muscle, were related to protein phosphorylation. Analysis of meat color and the relative content of myoglobin redox forms revealed that meat color stability was inversely related to the phosphorylation of sarcoplasmic proteins. Thus, this study suggests that protein phosphorylation may be involved in meat color development by regulating glycolysis and the redox stability of myoglobin. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  16. Beale AFB, Marysville, California Revised Uniform Summary of Surface Weather Observations (RUSSWO) Parts A-F.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-08-19

    versus Visibility; Sky Cover; ( E ) Psychrometric Summaries (daily maximum and minimum temperatures, extreme maximum and minimum temperatures, psychrometric...frequency of occurance or cumulative percentage frequency of occuring tables. UNCLASSIFIED SCUPU)?y CLASaIFICATION OF THIS PAGE(Waht Dat E moli A - I...i,. -t’ r .corvi or QL.;V.A I-)tic ai t r’& iolL; recUl’d Et. Lxki-dGiuI ii.Trly ii~tervais. DAILY OBSERVATIONS S- t tr’ o. re .;,:cLt e , !’ru: at

  17. Towed Thermistor Chain Observations in JASIN,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-07-01

    Lij LiJ - S -Ky LJDC cYcc Ql I- 6? F-L T cy D- Hl-m L-L Lo i -,7W LOu CT KK _ _4 C7) 63 -) Ln CD Ln ;Lf FE - CS -JN V LO WLJCNK ua- -~ Lfl CO F (YD... DBD C _W2 + D2 Integrating (A5) yields: G8 bW -1 2cs + b z(s) = (- - 2c 3 / 2 [sinh (d - sinh- (-)] (a7) +- [(A + bs + cs) - /a]c where d = 4ac - b

  18. The Florida Prostate Cancer Research Training Opportunities for Outstanding Leaders (ReTOOL (registered trademark)) Program: Creating Opportunities for Minority HBCU Students

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-03-01

    850-599-3731 Email: ’z’edjna@roo uf! edu &nail: ,,..._IJ:IiUIJ5; filll!I~IDilil g;jtQl U:: Dii ::£: te:iln’K181fimu i::dl1 Program Hanager Shannon...requested on this card is confidential and for emergency use only. In the event of a medical emergency, this information will be used by authorized...released to emergency personnel. I also agree that any of my emergency contacts listed on this card may be notified in an emergency, as needed

  19. Environmental Analysis of the Upper Susitna River Basin using Landsat Imagery

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-01-01

    CourseslData Measuring Sites (SCS) 0 Snow Cover Measurement Location 4 C R RE /N OAA) j HŔ River Gauging Station (UISGS, COE) tI’ql with Water...large-scale map that can be used in selection of moved westward across the area (Kachadoorian drilling sites, provide a basis for estimating 1974...A033500 petrology and structure of the Maclaren, Ruby Range McKim, H L, L W Gatto, C I Merry, and R K Haugen (1976b) and Coast Range Belts implications

  20. Development of a PBPK Model for JP-8

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-11-15

    risks from exposures to chemicals. JP-8 is a challenging material to work with because JP-8 is a mixture of hundreds of hydrocarbons, significantly...et al., 1999) CONSTANT VLC = 0.04 !Liver tissue Schoeffner et al, 1999 CONSTANT VBC = 0.0076 !Brain tissue Schoeffner et al, 1999 CONSTANT VFC = 0.07...0.78*QC-QL-QB QS = 0.22*QC-QF !Scaled Tissue Volumes VL = VLC *BW VF = VFC*BW VB = VBC*BW 10 VS = 0.82*BW-VF VR = 0.09*BW-VL-VB !Metabolic

  1. Health-related quality of life outcomes and level of evidence in pediatric neurosurgery.

    PubMed

    Hansen, Daniel; Vedantam, Aditya; Briceño, Valentina; Lam, Sandi K; Luerssen, Thomas G; Jea, Andrew

    2016-10-01

    OBJECTIVE The emphasis on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes is increasing, along with an emphasis on evidence-based medicine. However, there is a notable paucity of validated HRQOL instruments for the pediatric population. Furthermore, no standardization or consensus currently exists concerning which HRQOL outcome measures ought to be used in pediatric neurosurgery. The authors wished to identify HRQOL outcomes used in pediatric neurosurgery research over the past 10 years, their frequency, and usage trends. METHODS Three top pediatric neurosurgical journals were reviewed for the decade from 2005 to 2014 for clinical studies of pediatric neurosurgical procedures that report HRQOL outcomes. Similar studies in the peer-reviewed journal Pediatrics were also used as a benchmark. Publication year, level of evidence, and HRQOL outcomes were collected for each article. RESULTS A total of 31 HRQOL studies were published in the pediatric neurosurgical literature over the study period. By comparison, there were 55 such articles in Pediatrics. The number of publications using HRQOL instruments showed a significant positive trend over time for Pediatrics (B = 0.62, p = 0.02) but did not increase significantly over time for the 3 neurosurgical journals (B = 0.12, p = 0.5). The authors identified a total of 46 different HRQOL instruments used across all journals. Within the neurosurgical journals, the Hydrocephalus Outcome Questionnaire (HOQ) (24%) was the most frequently used, followed by the Health Utilities Index (HUI) (16%), the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) (12%), and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) (12%). Of the 55 articles identified in Pediatrics, 22 (40%) used a version of the PedsQL. No neurosurgical study reached above Level 4 on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine (OCEBM) system. However, multiple studies from Pediatrics achieved OCEBM Level 3, several were categorized as Level 2, and one reached Level 1

  2. The Impact of Knee Injury History on Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescent Athletes.

    PubMed

    Lam, Kenneth C; Markbreiter, Jessica G

    2017-10-16

    Current evidence suggests that, despite returning to full participation, physically active adults with a previous knee injury experience lower health-related quality of life (HRQOL) than those with no knee injury history. It is unknown if this relationship is present in adolescent athletes. To determine the impact of knee injury history on HRQOL in adolescent athletes who were medically cleared for full participation. Cross-sectional. Athletic training clinics. A convenience sample of 183 adolescent athletes, who were medically cleared for full participation, were grouped by self-report of a previous knee injury: positive knee injury history [HIS] (n=36, age=15.7+1.35 years, height=168.0+11.9 cm; weight=71.8+11.9 kg) and no knee injury history [NO-HIS] (n=147, age=15.5+1.4 years, height=166.0+10.5 cm, weight=67.6+14.6 kg). Participants completed the pediatric version of the International Knee Documentation Committee form (Pedi-IKDC) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) during their preparticipation examination. Generalized linear models were used to compare group differences for the total and subscale scores of the Pedi-IKDC and PedsQL. Main effects of injury group indicated that the HIS group reported significantly lower scores than the NO-HIS group for the Pedi-IKDC total score (p<.001; HIS=79.2±21.7, NO-HIS=95.8±8.6) and for the PedsQL total (p=.001 HIS=85.7±10.9, NO-HIS=90.9±7.3), physical functioning (p=.002; HIS=86.7±13.6, NO-HIS=92.1±8.2), school functioning (p=.01; HIS=80.6±12.4, NO-HIS=86.8±12.2), and social functioning (p=.01; HIS=89.3+12.4, NO-HIS=94.6+8.9) scores. No group differences were reported for the emotional functioning subscale (p=.13; HIS=85.7±17.7, NO-HIS=89.7±13.1). No interactions or main effects of sex were reported (p>.05). Our findings suggest that, despite returning to full sport participation, adolescent athletes with a previous knee injury generally experience lower HRQOL than their peers with no knee injury

  3. Lattice Boltzmann Method for 3-D Flows with Curved Boundary

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mei, Renwei; Shyy, Wei; Yu, Dazhi; Luo, Li-Shi

    2002-01-01

    In this work, we investigate two issues that are important to computational efficiency and reliability in fluid dynamics applications of the lattice, Boltzmann equation (LBE): (1) Computational stability and accuracy of different lattice Boltzmann models and (2) the treatment of the boundary conditions on curved solid boundaries and their 3-D implementations. Three athermal 3-D LBE models (D3QI5, D3Ql9, and D3Q27) are studied and compared in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and robustness. The boundary treatment recently developed by Filippova and Hanel and Met et al. in 2-D is extended to and implemented for 3-D. The convergence, stability, and computational efficiency of the 3-D LBE models with the boundary treatment for curved boundaries were tested in simulations of four 3-D flows: (1) Fully developed flows in a square duct, (2) flow in a 3-D lid-driven cavity, (3) fully developed flows in a circular pipe, and (4) a uniform flow over a sphere. We found that while the fifteen-velocity 3-D (D3Ql5) model is more prone to numerical instability and the D3Q27 is more computationally intensive, the 63Q19 model provides a balance between computational reliability and efficiency. Through numerical simulations, we demonstrated that the boundary treatment for 3-D arbitrary curved geometry has second-order accuracy and possesses satisfactory stability characteristics.

  4. Learning Multirobot Hose Transportation and Deployment by Distributed Round-Robin Q-Learning.

    PubMed

    Fernandez-Gauna, Borja; Etxeberria-Agiriano, Ismael; Graña, Manuel

    2015-01-01

    Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning (MARL) algorithms face two main difficulties: the curse of dimensionality, and environment non-stationarity due to the independent learning processes carried out by the agents concurrently. In this paper we formalize and prove the convergence of a Distributed Round Robin Q-learning (D-RR-QL) algorithm for cooperative systems. The computational complexity of this algorithm increases linearly with the number of agents. Moreover, it eliminates environment non sta tionarity by carrying a round-robin scheduling of the action selection and execution. That this learning scheme allows the implementation of Modular State-Action Vetoes (MSAV) in cooperative multi-agent systems, which speeds up learning convergence in over-constrained systems by vetoing state-action pairs which lead to undesired termination states (UTS) in the relevant state-action subspace. Each agent's local state-action value function learning is an independent process, including the MSAV policies. Coordination of locally optimal policies to obtain the global optimal joint policy is achieved by a greedy selection procedure using message passing. We show that D-RR-QL improves over state-of-the-art approaches, such as Distributed Q-Learning, Team Q-Learning and Coordinated Reinforcement Learning in a paradigmatic Linked Multi-Component Robotic System (L-MCRS) control problem: the hose transportation task. L-MCRS are over-constrained systems with many UTS induced by the interaction of the passive linking element and the active mobile robots.

  5. Gaming supports youth with acquired brain injury? A pilot study.

    PubMed

    de Kloet, A J; Berger, M A M; Verhoeven, I M A J; van Stein Callenfels, K; Vlieland, T P M Vliet

    2012-01-01

    To explore the effects of usage of the Nintendo Wii on physical, cognitive and social functioning in patients with acquired brain injury (ABI). This multi-centre, observational proof-of-concept study included children, adolescents and young adults with ABI aged 6-29 years. A standardized, yet individually tailored 12-week intervention with the Nintendo Wii was delivered by trained instructors. The treatment goals were set on an individual basis and included targets regarding physical, mental and/or social functioning. Outcome assessments were done at baseline and after 12 weeks and included: the average number of minutes per week of recreational physical activity; the CAPE (Children's Assessment of Participation and Enjoyment); the ANT (Amsterdam Neuropsychological Tasks); the achievement of individual treatment goals (Goal Attainment Scaling); and quality-of-life (PedsQL; Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory). Statistical analyses included paired t-tests or Wilcoxon-Signed-Rank tests. Fifty patients were included (31 boys and 19 girls; mean age 17.1 years (SD = 4.4)), of whom 45 (90%) completed the study. Significant changes of the amount of physical activity, speed of information processing, attention, response inhibition and visual-motor coordination (p < 0.05) were seen after 12 weeks, whereas there were no differences in CAPE or PedsQL scores. Two-thirds of the patients reported an improvement of the main treatment goal. This study supports the potential benefits of gaming in children and youth with ABI.

  6. Evaluation of Adolescents Diagnosed with Acne Vulgaris for Quality of Life and Psychosocial Challenges.

    PubMed

    Eyüboglu, Murat; Kalay, Incilay; Eyüboglu, Damla

    2018-01-01

    Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition which affects most adolescents. It has a major impact on quality of life and psychosocial well-being. The aims of the study were to examine the psychosocial effects of acne on adolescents and changes in quality of life, and to reveal any difference in the possible effect between genders. In addition, an investigation of the association between acne severity and quality of life as well as psychosocial stress was conducted. The present study included 164 adolescents with a mean age of 12-18 years and was diagnosed with acne vulgaris without any previous treatment. The control group consisted of 188 healthy volunteers. Acne severity was evaluated by the global acne grading system. All patients filled in a Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index, Pediatric Quality of Life Questionnaire (PedsQL), and a Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). The scores of SDQ and PedsQL were significantly lower in the case group. There was no significant correlation found between the genders in the control group for acne severity and scale scores. No significant correlation was found between acne severity and psychosocial challenges. The results of the present study show that acne has a significant effect on quality of life for adolescents, and this has an impact on their psychosocial life. Another important finding of the present study is that worsening in quality of life is not affected by some factors such as duration, severity of acne and age.

  7. Spectral, thermal, XRD and SEM studies of charge-transfer complexation of hexamethylenediamine and three types of acceptors: π-, σ- and vacant orbital acceptors that include quinol, picric acid, bromine, iodine, SnCl4 and ZnCl2 acceptors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Adam, Abdel Majid A.; Refat, Moamen S.; Saad, Hosam A.

    2013-11-01

    In this work, structural, thermal, morphological and pharmacological characterization was performed on the interactions between a hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) donor and three types of acceptors to understand the complexation behavior of diamines. The three types of acceptors include π-acceptors (i.e., quinol (QL) and picric acid (PA)), σ-acceptors (i.e., bromine and iodine) and vacant orbital acceptors (i.e., tin(IV) tetrachloride (SnCl4) and zinc chloride (ZnCl2)). The characterization of the obtained CT complexes was performed using elemental analysis, infrared (IR), Raman, 1H NMR and electronic absorption spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis. Their morphologies were studied using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX). The biological activities of the obtained CT complexes were tested for their antibacterial activities. The complex containing the QL acceptor exhibited a remarkable electronic spectrum with a strong, broad absorption band, which had an observed λmax that was at a much longer wavelength than those of the free reactants. In addition, this complex exhibited strong antimicrobial activities against various bacterial and fungal strains compared to standard drugs. The complexes containing the PA, iodine, Sn(IV) and Zn(II) acceptors exhibited good thermal stability up to 240, 330, 275 and 295 °C, respectively. The complexes containing bromine, Sn(IV) and Zn(II) acceptors exhibited good crystallinity. In addition to its good crystallinity properties, the complex containing the bromine acceptor exhibits a remarkable morphology feature.

  8. Factors associated with health and oral health-related quality of life of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy.

    PubMed

    Cardoso, Andreia Medeiros Rodrigues; de Medeiros, Mariana Marinho Davino; Gomes, Lays Nóbrega; Martins, Mariana Leonel; Padilha, Wilton Wilney Nascimento; Cavalcanti, Alessandro Leite

    2018-06-12

    To verify factors associated with impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) and Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) of children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP). Sample of 149 individuals with CP aged 2 to 18 years and their caregivers, who provided information regarding HRQoL (PedsQL 4.0), OHRQoL (PedsQL 3.0 Oral Health, and socioeconomic factors. A calibrated investigator performed dental examinations, with dental caries, traumatic dental injury, periodontal, and occlusal evaluation. HRQoL and OHRQoL scores were transformed into a 0 to 100 scale, dichotomized in absence or presence of impact (score < 50) and analyzed by Mann-Whitney test and Poisson regression (α = .05). The mean HRQoL score was 50.3 ± 10.2. Impact on HRQoL was observed in 51.7% and associated with gender, general health perception, and communication skills. The mean OHRQoL score was 78.0 ± 24.6. The presence of impact on OHRQoL (12.1%) was associated with age, presence of gastroesophageal reflux, dental caries, and periodontal diseases. Individuals with CP had low HRQoL and OHRQoL scores. The impact on HRQoL was shown to be associated with gender, health perception. and communication skills. Regarding OHRQoL, the presence of impact was associated with age, gastroesophageal reflux, dental caries. and periodontal diseases. © 2018 Special Care Dentistry Association and Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Predictive Value of Upper Limb Muscles and Grasp Patterns on Functional Outcome in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury.

    PubMed

    Velstra, Inge-Marie; Bolliger, Marc; Krebs, Jörg; Rietman, Johan S; Curt, Armin

    2016-05-01

    To determine which single or combined upper limb muscles as defined by the International Standards for the Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI); upper extremity motor score (UEMS) and the Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility, and Prehension (GRASSP), best predict upper limb function and independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and to assess the predictive value of qualitative grasp movements (QlG) on upper limb function in individuals with acute tetraplegia. As part of a Europe-wide, prospective, longitudinal, multicenter study ISNCSCI, GRASSP, and Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III) scores were recorded at 1 and 6 months after SCI. For prediction of upper limb function and ADLs, a logistic regression model and unbiased recursive partitioning conditional inference tree (URP-CTREE) were used. Results: Logistic regression and URP-CTREE revealed that a combination of ISNCSCI and GRASSP muscles (to a maximum of 4) demonstrated the best prediction (specificity and sensitivity ranged from 81.8% to 96.0%) of upper limb function and identified homogenous outcome cohorts at 6 months. The URP-CTREE model with the QlG predictors for upper limb function showed similar results. Prediction of upper limb function can be achieved through a combination of defined, specific upper limb muscles assessed in the ISNCSCI and GRASSP. A combination of a limited number of proximal and distal muscles along with an assessment of grasping movements can be applied for clinical decision making for rehabilitation interventions and clinical trials. © The Author(s) 2015.

  10. Feeding sunflower cake from biodiesel production to Santa Ines lambs: Physicochemical composition, fatty acid profile and sensory attributes of meat

    PubMed Central

    Nascimento, Thiago Vinicius Costa; Oliveira, Vinicius da Silva; Ribeiro, Rebeca Dantas Xavier

    2018-01-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the inclusion of sunflower cake in the diets of lambs on meat quality. Forty male, uncastrated Santa Ines lambs with an initial average body weight of 20.9 ± 0.41 kg were used in a completely randomized design with four treatments. The lambs were fed 500 g/kg hay and 500 g/kg concentrate (corn, soybean meal, urea, ammonium sulfate and sunflower cake) in their diet, and the experimental treatments were 0, 10, 20, and 30% sunflower cake inclusion (DM basis). The inclusion of sunflower cake in the diet did not affect (P > 0.05) the content of ash and protein, overall acceptance, or sensory aroma of the lamb meat. Total lipids and moisture content of the longissimus lumborum muscle increased linearly (P ≤ 0.05) with sunflower cake inclusion. The C16:0, ΣSFA, ΣMUFA:ΣSFA ratio, Δ–9 desaturase enzyme and atherogenicity index in the longissimus lumborum muscle decreased linearly (P ≤ 0.05) with sunflower cake inclusion in lamb diets, whereas a linear increase occurred (P ≤ 0.05) in C12:0, C18:0, ΣMUFA, ΣPUFA, ΣPUFA:ΣSFA and ΣPUFA:ΣMUFA ratios, Σn–6, Σn–3, desirable fatty acids, h:H index, elongase activity, and flavor, tenderness and juiciness sensory qualities in lamb meat. Among the panelists, the highest preference (35.9%) was for meat with 30% sunflower cake inclusion in the diet. Sunflower cake up to 30% of total DM can be included in the diet of Santa Ines lambs, because lipid nutritional quality and the sensory qualities of the lamb meat increase, in addition to improvement in nutraceutical compounds, such as the CLA content, and in the AI, PUFA:SFA and PUFA:MUFA ratios, desirable fatty acids content and h:H ratio, which are beneficial to the health of consumers. PMID:29304058

  11. Measurement Systems Advisory Group

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1974-04-01

    US NavyLib MSAG- 1 REPORT 001 qL5 ID I APRIL 1974 MA2C91SMAR 2 0 19 81 F Prepared For "LONG RANGE ACOUSTIC PROPAGATION PROJECT 7 opt/ icl S[ D _STRIBU...34 j •( - _> ...ailability Codes IV !VM Avail and/or -~’Dist IspecialL K OFFICE OF NAVAL RESEARCH Department of the Navy Washington, D.C.I L 1 April 23...respect and very much appreciated. The report will be distributed to selected members of the user community for their information and comment. Because 1

  12. Organizational Work and the Perceived Quality of Life: Toward a Conceptual Model.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-08-01

    portion of Figure 2, arrows from the environment (A or B) and from the person ( C ) join together and lead to domain activities (D or E ) as a way of...thereby enhancing the perceived quality of marital life, and ultimately an improved pQL overall (path B- E - C -D-F-J-L in Figure 2). A single work variable may...from the two domain-related activities (A- C , B- C , D- C , or E - C ). All arrows leading into either of the two environmental sectors (A and B) rep- V

  13. The WC-130 Meteorological System and Its Utilization in Operational Weather Reconnaissance.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-08-01

    wather reconnais)arc, Jiiesir)n!. Tt,-’ ql i t! \\.: t ,,h, wilt. it’ mphasis: on operator manual rrouction ot primary ’idta (usiri; l.nAr ii ’u" f.x-r...variou.: customer: . ,ome of the, assessments have providrd the basin for planned systen improvement.’ or ptox.:,,l, for totally ne%. wather reconnaissance...1Ua:"n ,- ar1, taken. Also, the, numl)er )f oixrational squadron!- anmi the nulber f wather r ,,cici airriaft iav,, hbeen rejuc’r ii; tru, :,cil ie, t

  14. Ground-up-to-Space (GUTS) Laser Propagation Code Description and Manual

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-06-01

    34itteiy bean quality, and turbulence. Essentially, these effects are replaced by a phase screen at the aperture which multiplies the initial complex ...coherence length # Po , in terms of Fned’s [fief. 35] coher- ence cianeter , r». 75 Po = r /2 . 1 (3.21) Substituting Fried’s definition for r Po = 2.1 ? Ql f...comhination of the two are used, lrel tb = j~l-(d/b) 21 lrel u + (d/b) 2 Irel t (3-WJ kuere d is the apertue dianeter and b is the waist cianeter cf th€ teas

  15. A Handbook for Strategic Planning

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-01-01

    sale; its / 94 dig Is Ulc and Uindo Al. 10oherty, *q** 3 About the TQL Office I ie mission of the Total Quality Leadership 0 QL) Office, Office of the...Strategic Planning DeieL. Wells u.1da M4. Doherty. Ph.D. NI.gpOpmwHG CRA141ZAM01 NAME() AN4D A060111(li; L. PINORUMU4OGNIZAMSN Total Qu~ality Leadership ...Total Quality Leadership , 48 mtrategic direction, strategic intent, organizational planning, 11tinaiCMc MIisiing.mysteusth nking, gap analysis 17 1CUPMtlI

  16. Proceedings of Damping Volume 2 of 3

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-06-01

    engineering, marine engineering, auto-industry, sporting goods, proved that the realms of application will definitely be expanding. The paper surveyed by...G13 = G13 + i Tic G13 (43a) D11 = D + i ibD (43b) (AI-All)* =(All-All) + i ql(AI1-AIl) (43c) B11 ’= Bjj + i 1d BIL (43d) (All+A11) =(Aj1 +Ajj) + i l.(A...F.: Tail Buffet Characteristics and Longitudinal Oscillation of Combat Airplanes. NAVY x Bureau of Aeronautics, Structures Project Report No. 27, Feb

  17. The General Aviation Dynamics Model Volume III. Systems Manual.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1979-07-01

    SEXi and SEX2 or in some other way, as desired by the user. The descriptors of an index are used as stubs (row descriptors) and/or spanners (column...BAR A produces the following plot [7 SUWPLO~TS DATASET A, 1970 TO 1975 8+ .QL xx YXXMX 4+ MXUXX IDLMXX XXXXXX * yyx :mx0(c XXX *m XXXX XX XXXXX XMxK...VXXXCK 2+ mm~ XXXXX MMXXX I~CUM LXXMXx *X2~ XXX xXX =uXX ImXXXLMX * xx Iac lxxno IXxc= )LccIQX * XX= )LXXX ILMKXX X.XXXX IXXCX SHOW

  18. Predicting Grain Growth in Nanocrystalline Materials: A Thermodynamic and Kinetic-Based Model Informed by High Temperature X-ray Diffraction Experiments

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-10-01

    and d) Γb0. The scatter of the data points is due to the variation in the other parameters at 1 h. The line represents a best fit linear regression...parameters: a) Hseg, b) QL, c) γ0, and d) Γb0. The scatter of the data points is due to the variation in the other parameters at 1 h. The line represents...concentration x0 for the nanocrystalline Fe–Zr system. The white square data point shows the location of the experimental data used for fitting the

  19. Design and Synthesis of Tight Pitch FLCs for Analog Voltage-Limited Electro-Optic Modulators

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1994-05-27

    or decision, unless so designated b other documentation. 12a. DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT 𔃼b, DISTRIBUTION CODE Approved for public release...other end, a wide variety of cores can be synthesized. This is the preferred method for making about 40% of the cores shown in Figure 1. [PGO(Ar) -- B ...methanol, and finally dehydration to the nitrile 51 using phosphorus pentoxide. 0 OHO %%’QL X1) Bu2 BOTf A). 482 ) CH3CHO 49 it N •N O =Xc DEAD, TPP C8H17 O H

  20. Seasonal variations in the fatty acid composition of Greek wild rabbit meat.

    PubMed

    Papadomichelakis, G; Zoidis, E; Pappas, A C; Hadjigeorgiou, I

    2017-12-01

    The fatty acid (FA) profile of the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum muscle (LL) was used to investigate seasonal variation (September, November and March) in wild rabbits from Lemnos Island (Greece). The n-3 FA were particularly high during early March in comparison (P<0.05) with late September and late November. Thrombogenicity index (TI) values were lower in March (P<0.05) compared to the other periods. High concentrations of odd- and branched-chain FA were found in the meat of wild rabbits; however, they were not different among the considered periods of the year. The present results showed that wild rabbit meat has a desirable FA profile, particularly during early spring, and it could be a good source of bioactive FA in human nutrition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Three new species of Protogyrodactylus Johnston & Tiegs, 1922 (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae) from the gills of the longtail silverbiddy Gerres longirostris (Teleostei: Gerreidae) in the Red Sea.

    PubMed

    Galli, Paolo; Kritsky, Delane C

    2008-03-01

    Twenty-one specimens of the longtailed silverbiddy Gerres longirostris (Gerreidae) were examined for dactylogyrid parasites from the Nabq Managed Resource Protected Area, Ras Mohammed National Park (Red Sea) near Sharm El-Sheikh, South Sinai, Egypt. The diagnosis of Protogyrodactylus Johnston & Tiegs, 1922 was amended, and three new species, P. federicae n. sp., P. zullinii n. sp. and P. alatus n. sp., were recovered and described; the prevalence of each species was 100%. P. federicae most closely resembled P. alienus Bychowsky & Nagibina, 1974, but differed from it by possessing two anteromedial projections on the ventral bar, a claw-like ventral anchor sclerite and spatulate dorsal bars. P. zullini was most similar to P. quadratus Johnston & Tiegs, 1922, from which it differed by having a distal hook on the superficial root of the dorsal anchor, an evenly curved ventral anchor shaft and point, and a flange on the bulbous base of the male copulatory organ. P. alatus was closest to P. youngi Bychowsky & Nagibina, 1974, from which it differed by having delicate anchors and two prominent anteromedial processes on the ventral bar.

  2. Health-related quality of life in Austrian elementary school children.

    PubMed

    Felder-Puig, Rosemarie; Baumgartner, Michaela; Topf, Reinhard; Gadner, Helmut; Formann, Anton K

    2008-04-01

    Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is frequently used as an outcome criterion to evaluate the quality and effect of different therapies. However, little is known about the HRQL of the general population, the prevalence of specific HRQL problems and about which factors have an impact on HRQL assessments. To examine children's HRQL from their own and their parents' perspectives. The study sample consisted of children attending the third and fourth grades of elementary school in the capital of Austria, Europe. One thousand four hundred twelve children and 1185 parents completed child- and parent-versions of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventorytrade mark (PedsQLtrade mark). In addition to the PedsQL questions, children and parents were asked a number of questions with regard to sociodemographic information and specific problems that were hypothesized to be associated with the children's HRQL. Altogether, the children demonstrated a good HRQL and their PedsQL scores were similar to those of children from other developed countries. About 15% of children showed a notably low HRQL, and two-thirds of these children were from financially less privileged families. Multivariate regression analyses identified the following factors associated with the children's HRQL: the family's perceived financial situation, parents' quality of life, children's school performance, medical and/or psychologic problems (eg, dyslexia, recurrent stomachache or headaches), chronic disease, a recent life-event (eg, divorce/separation of parents), and parents' satisfaction with school. Assessing children's HRQL may be helpful to take preventive action and to identify those who are in urgent need of special services.

  3. Fatigue in patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: relationship to perceived health, physical health, self-efficacy, and participation.

    PubMed

    Armbrust, Wineke; Lelieveld, Otto H T M; Tuinstra, Jolanda; Wulffraat, Nico M; Bos, G J F Joyce; Cappon, Jeannette; van Rossum, Marion A J; Sauer, Pieter J J; Hagedoorn, Mariët

    2016-12-06

    Fatigue is common in patients with JIA and affects daily life negatively. We assessed the presence and severity of fatigue in patients with JIA, including factors presumed associated with fatigue (e.g., disease activity, disability, pain, physical activity, exercise capacity, and self-efficacy), and whether fatigue is related to participation in physical education classes, school attendance, and sports frequency. The current study used baseline data of 80 patients with JIA (age 8-13) who participated in an intervention aimed at promoting physical activity. Primary outcome measurements were fatigue, assessed using the Pediatric-Quality-of-Life-Inventory (PedsQl)-Fatigue-scale and energy level assessed using a VAS scale. Other outcome measurements were disease activity (VAS Physician Global Assessment Scale), disability (Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire), physical activity (accelerometer), exercise capacity (Bruce treadmill test), self-efficacy (Childhood Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale), and participation (self-report). Sixty percent of patients with JIA suffered from daily low-energy levels; 27% suffered from very low-energy levels more than half the week. Low energy levels were best predicted by disability and low physical activity. Fatigue measured with the PEDsQL was higher compared to the control-population. Disability and low self-efficacy were main predictors of fatigue. Self-efficacy was a predictor of fatigue but did not act as moderator. Fatigue was a predictor for sports frequency but not for school attendance. Fatigue is a significant problem for JIA patients. Interventions aimed at reducing perceived disability, stimulating physical activity, and enhancing self-efficacy might reduce fatigue and thereby enhance participation. Trial number ISRCTN92733069.

  4. Discovery of a BTK/MNK dual inhibitor for lymphoma and leukemia.

    PubMed

    Wu, H; Hu, C; Wang, A; Weisberg, E L; Chen, Y; Yun, C-H; Wang, W; Liu, Y; Liu, X; Tian, B; Wang, J; Zhao, Z; Liang, Y; Li, B; Wang, L; Wang, B; Chen, C; Buhrlage, S J; Qi, Z; Zou, F; Nonami, A; Li, Y; Fernandes, S M; Adamia, S; Stone, R M; Galinsky, I A; Wang, X; Yang, G; Griffin, J D; Brown, J R; Eck, M J; Liu, J; Gray, N S; Liu, Q

    2016-01-01

    Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) kinase is a member of the TEC kinase family and is a key regulator of the B-cell receptor (BCR)-mediated signaling pathway. It is important for B-cell maturation, proliferation, survival and metastasis. Pharmacological inhibition of BTK is clinically effective against a variety of B-cell malignances, such as mantle cell lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and activated B-cell-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. MNK kinase is one of the key downstream regulators in the RAF-MEK-ERK signaling pathway and controls protein synthesis via regulating the activity of eIF4E. Inhibition of MNK activity has been observed to moderately inhibit the proliferation of AML cells. Through a structure-based drug-design approach, we have discovered a selective and potent BTK/MNK dual kinase inhibitor (QL-X-138), which exhibits covalent binding to BTK and noncovalent binding to MNK. Compared with the BTK kinase inhibitor (PCI-32765) and the MNK kinase inhibitor (cercosporamide), QL-X-138 enhanced the antiproliferative efficacies in vitro against a variety of B-cell cancer cell lines, as well as AML and CLL primary patient cells, which respond moderately to BTK inhibitor in vitro. The agent can effectively arrest the growth of lymphoma and leukemia cells at the G0-G1 stage and can induce strong apoptotic cell death. These primary results demonstrate that simultaneous inhibition of BTK and MNK kinase activity might be a new therapeutic strategy for B-cell malignances.

  5. Development and validation of a stability-indicating RP-HPLC method for assay of betamethasone and estimation of its related compounds.

    PubMed

    Fu, Qiang; Shou, Minshan; Chien, Dwight; Markovich, Robert; Rustum, Abu M

    2010-02-05

    Betamethasone (9alpha-fluoro-16beta-methylprednisolone) is one of the members of the corticosteriod family of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), which is widely used as an anti-inflammatory agent and also as a starting material to manufacture various esters of betamethasone. A stability-indicating reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method has been developed and validated which can separate and accurately quantitate low levels of 26 betamethasone related compounds. The stability-indicating capability of the method was demonstrated through adequate separation of all potential betamethasone related compounds from betamethasone and also from each other that are present in aged and stress degraded betamethasone stability samples. Chromatographic separation of betamethasone and its related compounds was achieved by using a gradient elution at a flow rate of 1.0mL/min on a ACE 3 C18 column (150mmx4.6mm, 3microm particle size, 100A pore size) at 40 degrees C. Mobile phase A of the gradient was 0.1% methanesulfonic acid in aqueous solution and mobile phase B was a mixture of tert-butanol and 1,4-dioxane (7:93, v/v). UV detection at 254nm was employed to monitor the analytes. For betamethasone 21-aldehyde, the QL and DL were 0.02% and 0.01% respectively. For betamethasone and the rest of the betamethasone related compounds, the QL and DL were 0.05% and 0.02%. The precision of betamethasone assay is 0.6% and the accuracy of betamethasone assay ranged from 98.1% to 99.9%.

  6. [Quality of life of children with bronchial asthma disease].

    PubMed

    Chromá, Jana; Slaný, Jaroslav

    2011-01-01

    The aim of this study was to determine how children with bronchial asthma disease assess their quality of life and to find domains of physical and psychosocial health in relation to age and gender. The quality of life compared with the healthy children and parents of asthmatic children and healthy parents. The research sample consisted of 199 children and 125 parents. Adepts for the study were selected by standardized questionnaires on the quality of life of the pediatric version of the PedsQL 4.0 and questionnaires PedsQL 2.0 module impact on the family. The research was conducted between September 2010 and January 2011 in the pediatric allergology ambulances and physicians in the University and Municipal Hospital in Ostrava. The mean quality of life of asthmatic children is 74.41, a statistically significant difference between the physical (78,81) and psychosocial (72,06) dimensions of health. The analysis shows that girls evaluate their quality of life worse than boys. The worst quality of life was found among children in the age group 5-7 years. No statistically significant difference in the quality of life was found between the asthmatic and healthy children. Between parents of asthmatic and healthy children statistically significant difference in the quality of life was found. Between asthmatic and healthy children no difference in the quality of life was found. We must not forget that the quality of life of the parents of asthmatic children is significantly influenced by the chronic disease of their children.

  7. Interaction of the Sliding Clamp β-Subunit and Hda, a DnaA-Related Protein

    PubMed Central

    Kurz, Mareike; Dalrymple, Brian; Wijffels, Gene; Kongsuwan, Kritaya

    2004-01-01

    In Escherichia coli, interactions between the replication initiation protein DnaA, the β subunit of DNA polymerase III (the sliding clamp protein), and Hda, the recently identified DnaA-related protein, are required to convert the active ATP-bound form of DnaA to an inactive ADP-bound form through the accelerated hydrolysis of ATP. This rapid hydrolysis of ATP is proposed to be the main mechanism that blocks multiple initiations during cell cycle and acts as a molecular switch from initiation to replication. However, the biochemical mechanism for this crucial step in DNA synthesis has not been resolved. Using purified Hda and β proteins in a plate binding assay and Ni-nitrilotriacetic acid pulldown analysis, we show for the first time that Hda directly interacts with β in vitro. A new β-binding motif, a hexapeptide with the consensus sequence QL[SP]LPL, related to the previously identified β-binding pentapeptide motif (QL[SD]LF) was found in the amino terminus of the Hda protein. Mutants of Hda with amino acid changes in the hexapeptide motif are severely defective in their ability to bind β. A 10-amino-acid peptide containing the E. coli Hda β-binding motif was shown to compete with Hda for binding to β in an Hda-β interaction assay. These results establish that the interaction of Hda with β is mediated through the hexapeptide sequence. We propose that this interaction may be crucial to the events that lead to the inactivation of DnaA and the prevention of excess initiation of rounds of replication. PMID:15150238

  8. Interaction of the sliding clamp beta-subunit and Hda, a DnaA-related protein.

    PubMed

    Kurz, Mareike; Dalrymple, Brian; Wijffels, Gene; Kongsuwan, Kritaya

    2004-06-01

    In Escherichia coli, interactions between the replication initiation protein DnaA, the beta subunit of DNA polymerase III (the sliding clamp protein), and Hda, the recently identified DnaA-related protein, are required to convert the active ATP-bound form of DnaA to an inactive ADP-bound form through the accelerated hydrolysis of ATP. This rapid hydrolysis of ATP is proposed to be the main mechanism that blocks multiple initiations during cell cycle and acts as a molecular switch from initiation to replication. However, the biochemical mechanism for this crucial step in DNA synthesis has not been resolved. Using purified Hda and beta proteins in a plate binding assay and Ni-nitrilotriacetic acid pulldown analysis, we show for the first time that Hda directly interacts with beta in vitro. A new beta-binding motif, a hexapeptide with the consensus sequence QL[SP]LPL, related to the previously identified beta-binding pentapeptide motif (QL[SD]LF) was found in the amino terminus of the Hda protein. Mutants of Hda with amino acid changes in the hexapeptide motif are severely defective in their ability to bind beta. A 10-amino-acid peptide containing the E. coli Hda beta-binding motif was shown to compete with Hda for binding to beta in an Hda-beta interaction assay. These results establish that the interaction of Hda with beta is mediated through the hexapeptide sequence. We propose that this interaction may be crucial to the events that lead to the inactivation of DnaA and the prevention of excess initiation of rounds of replication.

  9. Longitudinal Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life following Adolescent Sports-Related Concussion.

    PubMed

    Russell, Kelly; Selci, Erin; Chu, Stephanie; Fineblit, Samuel; Ritchie, Lesley; Ellis, Michael J

    2017-07-01

    To examine initial and longitudinal health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adolescent sports-related concussion (SRC) patients, a prospective observational case-series study was conducted among adolescent SRC patients who were evaluated at a multi-disciplinary pediatric concussion program. Health-related quality of life was measured using the child self-report Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) generic score scale (age 13-18 version) and the PedsQL Cognitive Functioning scale. Initial and longitudinal HRQOL outcomes were compared between patients who did and did not develop post-concussion syndrome (PCS). A total of 63 patients met the inclusion criteria during the study period. The mean age of the cohort was 14.57 years (standard deviation, 1.17) and 61.9% were male. The median time from injury to initial consultation was 6.5 days (interquartile range, 5, 11). At initial consultation, impairments in physical and cognitive HRQOL but not social or emotional HRQOL were observed. Initial symptom burden and length of recovery were associated with greater impairment in physical and cognitive HRQOL. Patients who went on to develop PCS had significantly worse physical and cognitive HRQOL at initial consultation and demonstrated a slower rate of recovery in these domains, compared with those who recovered in less than 30 days. Adolescent SRC was associated with HRQOL impairments that correlated with clinical outcomes. No persistent impairments in HRQOL were detected among patients who achieved physician-documented clinical recovery. Future studies are needed to evaluate the clinical utility of HRQOL measurement in the longitudinal management of adolescent SRC and PCS patients.

  10. Evaluation of Adolescents Diagnosed with Acne Vulgaris for Quality of Life and Psychosocial Challenges

    PubMed Central

    Eyüboglu, Murat; Kalay, Incilay; Eyüboglu, Damla

    2018-01-01

    Background: Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition which affects most adolescents. It has a major impact on quality of life and psychosocial well-being. Aims: The aims of the study were to examine the psychosocial effects of acne on adolescents and changes in quality of life, and to reveal any difference in the possible effect between genders. In addition, an investigation of the association between acne severity and quality of life as well as psychosocial stress was conducted. Materials and Methods: The present study included 164 adolescents with a mean age of 12–18 years and was diagnosed with acne vulgaris without any previous treatment. The control group consisted of 188 healthy volunteers. Acne severity was evaluated by the global acne grading system. All patients filled in a Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index, Pediatric Quality of Life Questionnaire (PedsQL), and a Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Results: The scores of SDQ and PedsQL were significantly lower in the case group. There was no significant correlation found between the genders in the control group for acne severity and scale scores. No significant correlation was found between acne severity and psychosocial challenges. Conclusions: The results of the present study show that acne has a significant effect on quality of life for adolescents, and this has an impact on their psychosocial life. Another important finding of the present study is that worsening in quality of life is not affected by some factors such as duration, severity of acne and age. PMID:29692454

  11. Analytical and Design Study for a High-Pressure, High-Enthalpy Constricted Arc Heater

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1975-07-01

    Stabilized Constricted Arc," NASA Technical Memorandum X-2700, February 1973. Nikuradse, J., "Gesetzm~ssigkeit der turbulenten Str ~ mung in glatten...REFERENCES FOR APPENDIX C Nikuradse, J., "Gesetzm~ssigkeit der turbulenten Str ~ mung in glatten Rohren, °’ Forschungsheft 356 (1932). Watson, V. R. and...qlI) NiT|U/pus| H& STR ~Uol] •G#S ~el~ • *SRbO0(-O• -hOR?RX~*ll -.R IO||•E*O • *) , •?•?l [*SO |.bRS8A[-aS -?~Oq~T•F~aa |5••A~?F*It - ] .~O~t [ -R2

  12. Effect of Thickener and Gasoline Quality on the Properties of Napalm Fuels

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1945-01-01

    6 ’ So H S3 lOCDCCtDOnroO) )««0 0)<E«DO «Hf-IG)IQ|Q0l*-<OO«[> P"iS OOONQHC O «3 IO HHO ’ »O «TOO «XOHCOOilNHIOIOOOIOC- 1’ 01 CD...OOO0JC0O’OCDtf> Cpl0rHl0*OtQlGDtH£CUO>Q O^CUi-KO .O »tOO» »on feCDOl HH(«niQ9 »HHH(0 HHO « I l«KJB* ©HN«(Dlf^V®Ct

  13. The Effect of Circumferential Tube Wall Heat Conduction upon Laminar Filmwise Condensation on the Outside of Condenser Tubes.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-12-01

    amount of tube surface area. Complications arise from these tubes, however, not the least being a sharp increase in the pumping power required to...V F. COMPARISON WITH PREVIOUS SOLUTIONS The aforementioned paper of Nicol, et al., [18] provided fertile ground for comparison, but only if the...000)-zz-jx’ - " C 4= LIUCW U )Lu L.U.QL&u.WWUI’ 40UJ. 0 C I (n .. Jte I- (�AJ~ ~ . LI. L I p~~~~~~~~~. 4. J.4.6~ i.~~ iui * ~ "W U~ - u . &LL.~ 4A

  14. The maximal cooling power of magnetic and thermoelectric refrigerators with La(FeCoSi)13 alloys

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Skokov, K. P.; Karpenkov, A. Yu.; Karpenkov, D. Yu.; Gutfleisch, O.

    2013-05-01

    Using our data on magnetic entropy change ΔSm, adiabatic temperature change ΔTad and heat capacity CH for La(FeCoSi)13 alloys, the upper limit of heat Qc transferred per cycle, and the lowest limit of consumed work Wc were established for magnetic refrigerators operating in Δμ0H =1.9 T. In order to estimate the cooling power, attributable to thermoelectric refrigerators with La(FeCoSi)13, thermal conductivity λ, resistivity ρ, and Seebeck coefficient α were measured and the maximal cooling power QL, the input power Pi, and coefficient of performance have been calculated.

  15. Rotaxane liquid crystals with variable length: The effect of switching efficiency on the isotropic-nematic transition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    He, Hao; Sevick, Edith M.; Williams, David R. M.

    2018-04-01

    We examine a solution of non-adaptive two-state rotaxane molecules which can switch from a short state of length L to a long state of length qL, using statistical thermodynamics. This molecular switching is externally driven and can result in an isotropic-nematic phase transition without altering temperature and concentration. Here we concentrate on the limitation imposed by switching inefficiency, i.e., on the case where molecular switching is not quantitative, leading to a solution of rotaxanes in different states. We present switching diagrams that can guide in the design of rotaxanes which affect a macroscopic phase change.

  16. Identification of sensory attributes, instrumental and chemical measurements important for consumer acceptability of grilled lamb Longissimus lumborum.

    PubMed

    Oltra, O R; Farmer, L J; Gordon, A W; Moss, B W; Birnie, J; Devlin, D J; Tolland, E L C; Tollerton, I J; Beattie, A M; Kennedy, J T; Farrell, D

    2015-02-01

    In this study, important eating quality attributes that influence consumer liking for grilled lamb loin have been identified using preference mapping techniques. The eating quality attributes identified as driving the consumer liking of lamb loin steaks were “tenderness”, “sweet flavour”, “meaty aftertaste”, “roast lamb flavour” and “roast lamb aftertaste”. In contrast, the texture attribute “rubbery” and the flavour attributes “bitter flavour” and "bitter aftertaste" had a negative influence on consumer perceptions. Associations were observed between eating quality and a number of instrumental and chemical measurements. Warner Bratzler Shear Force showed an association with “rubbery” texture and a negative association with “tenderness” and consumer liking scores. The compounds, glucose, glucose-6-phosphate, inosine, inosine monophosphate and adenosine monophosphate were associated with the attributes, “sweet flavour”,“meaty aftertaste”, “roast lamb flavour”, “roast lamb aftertaste” and with consumer scores for liking of lamb which is probably caused by the role some of these compounds play as precursors of flavour and as taste compounds.

  17. The effect of deformity correction on psychiatric condition of the adolescent with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

    PubMed

    Duramaz, Altuğ; Yılmaz, Semra; Ziroğlu, Nezih; Bursal Duramaz, Burcu; Kara, Tayfun

    2018-05-25

    The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the effects of deformity correction on body image, quality of life, self-esteem, depression and anxiety in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) who underwent surgery. Between June 2014 and July 2015, 41 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for AIS were compared with the control group of 52 healthy patients regarding the changes in the pre- and postoperative quality of life and psychiatric status of patients with deformity correction. Body Cathexis Scale (BCS), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), Piers-Harris self-esteem questionnaire (PH-SEQ) and state-trait Anxiety Inventory for Children were used to evaluate the patients. There was a significant decrease in postoperative first-year Cobb angle and trunkal shift imbalance compared with the preoperative values (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001). Postoperative first-year thoracic kyphosis angle and body height showed a significant increase according to preoperative values (p = 0.0001 and p = 0.0001). Postoperative PH-SEQ score and PedsQL total score showed a significant increase in the study group compared to the preoperative level, but no significant difference was found between the control group. Postoperative CDI score, BCS score, STAI-state and STAI-trait scores decreased significantly in the study group compared with preoperative scores. Surgical correction of deformity in AIS provided significant improvements regarding quality of life and psychiatric condition. Spinal surgeons should be aware of the possible psychological problems of AIS patients and should keep in mind that deformity correction not only improves physical health but also improves mental health. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.

  18. Quality of life and exercise performance in unoperated children with anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery from the opposite sinus of valsalva.

    PubMed

    Sing, Alan C; Tsaur, Stephen; Paridon, Stephen M; Brothers, Julie A

    2017-07-01

    Anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery is a congenital cardiac condition that can be associated with increased risk of sudden death. To date, quality of life and exercise performance have not been evaluated in patients with this condition who do not undergo surgical repair. We carried out a cross-sectional analysis of patients with unoperated anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery at our institution from 1 January, 2000 to 31 January, 2016. We prospectively assessed quality of life using standardised questionnaires. Medical records were reviewed for clinical and exercise stress test data. Statistical analyses were performed using Student's t-tests and Spearman's correlation coefficients. In total, 56 families completed the questionnaires. The average age at enrolment was 14.7±6 years. The majority were male (n=44, 78.6%) and had interarterial anomalous right coronary artery (n=38, 67.9%). Patients had normal quality of life on the PedsQL 4.0 Report, Child Health Questionnaire Child Form 87, and SF-36v2. Their parents had normal quality of life on the PedsQL 4.0 Parent Report, but parents of exercise-restricted patients had decreased Physical Functioning, General Health Perception, Emotional Impact on Parent, and Physical Summary scores (p<0.001-0.048) on the Child Health Questionnaire Parent Form 50. Patients with unoperated anomalous aortic origin of a coronary artery appear to have normal quality of life, but parents of exercise-restricted patients have decreased general health and emotional and physical quality of life scores. Improved counselling of families may be beneficial in this group. Future studies with more patients should evaluate quality of life and exercise performance over time.

  19. Comparison between objective measures and parental behavioral rating scales of memory and attention in pediatric endocrinology patients.

    PubMed

    Limbers, Christine; Young, Danielle; Jernigan, Stephanie; Bryant, William; Stephen, Matt

    2017-01-01

    Behavioral rating scales represent one potential method for screening of cognitive functioning in routine clinical care. It is not yet known if objective performance based measures and behavioral rating scales of cognitive functioning completed by parents yield similar information in pediatric endocrinology patients. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the associations between performance-based measures and behavioral rating scales of memory and attention/concentration completed by parents of pediatric patients with Type 1 Diabetes or obesity. The sample consisted of 73 pediatric patients with Type 1 Diabetes or obesity (BMI > 95th percentile) ages 6-16 years (mean age = 12.29 years) referred to an outpatient pediatric endocrinology clinic. Youth were administered the Wide Range Assessment of Memory and Learning (WRAML-2). Parents completed the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the PedsQL Cognitive Functioning Scale. Pearson's Product Moment Correlations were examined among the performance-based measures and behavioral rating scales. All intercorrelations between the performance-based measures and behavioral rating scales completed by parents were in the small range. The only statistically significant (P < 0.05) and approaching medium correlation was between the PedsQL Cognitive Functioning Scale and WRAML-2 Verbal Memory Index (r = 0.28). On behavioral rating scales and performance-based measures of visual memory and attention/concentration, our sample exhibited greater difficulties than healthy youth from previously published data (P < 0.05). One possible explanation for our findings is that behavioral rating scales of attention/concentration and memory completed by parents measure different aspects of cognitive functioning than performance based measures in pediatric patients with Type 1 Diabetes or obesity.

  20. Measuring stigma in children receiving mental health treatment: Validation of the Paediatric Self-Stigmatization Scale (PaedS).

    PubMed

    Kaushik, A; Papachristou, E; Dima, D; Fewings, S; Kostaki, E; Ploubidis, G B; Kyriakopoulos, M

    2017-06-01

    Research on the impact of stigma associated with mental illness in children is scarce. Considering the known negative effects of stigma associated with mental illness in adults, it is crucial to explore the stigma experienced by children who access mental health treatment. However, no scale measuring self-stigmatization in younger children is available to date. This study aimed to develop and validate such a scale, the Paediatric Self-Stigmatization Scale (PaedS). A total of 156 children (119 receiving outpatient and 37 receiving inpatient treatment), aged 8-12 years, completed the PaedS, the Self-Perception Profile for Children and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL - Child Report, ages 8-12). In addition, parents completed the PedsQL (Parent Report for Children, ages 8-12), the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and a modified subscale of the PaedS measuring the children's rejection by others due to their mental health difficulties. A confirmatory factor analysis showed that a four-factor structure, comprising Societal Devaluation, Personal Rejection, Self-Stigma and Secrecy scales, had excellent fit to the data (CFI=0.95; TLI=0.95; RMSEA=0.05). Child-reported PaedS scores were positively correlated with parental-reported PaedS scores and negatively with PedsQL, the SDQ, and 5 out of 6 subscales of the Self-Perception Profile for Children, suggesting adequate convergent validity (all P-values<0.05). The PaedS is a valid instrument, which is hoped to advance the understanding of self-stigmatization in children with mental health difficulties and contribute to its prevention. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.