bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking Critical Care Family Research to Quality Assurance
Authors: Krumberger Joanne M.
Published: January 2016

The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations standards require the inclusion of all major clinical functions performed by nurses in the nursing quality assurance (QA) program. To achieve this goal, nurses must first define the scope of care, which includes articulating the specific activities performed in the critical care unit, who provides the care, where and when nursing care is provided, and to whom nursing care is provided. Interventions directed toward families are recognized as falling within the scope of nursing practice. This article addresses how family research was used to develop a QA tool to evaluate family satisfaction with nursing interventions to meet their identified needs in an intensive care unit setting
Assessing the Comatose Patient in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Stewart-Amidei Christina
Published: January 2016

Consciousness is a complex phenomenon comprising arousal and awareness. These functions are mediated by the reticular activating system that begins in the brainstem and projects to higher cortical structures. Abnormalities directly or indirectly affecting this system may produce coma. Detailed neurologic assessment consists of evaluation of history, skeletal motor response, pupillary size and reactivity, eye movement, and respiratory patterns. Information obtained may be useful in localizing the contributory lesion, predicting outcome, and determining brain death. Several scales have been used to quantify coma, each with limitations. In the United States, the most widely used scale is the Glasgow Coma Scale
Use of Patient-Controlled Analgesia with Critically Ill Patients: A Risk/Benefit Analysis
Authors: Stanik Julie A.
Published: January 2016

Patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), a system by which patients self-administer intravenous doses of narcotics using specially programmed infusion pumps, has been used for pain management in acute care settings for nearly two decades. The safety and effectiveness of PCA has been documented in many acutely ill patient populations. Its introduction into critical care practice in the last five years has provided an important adjuct to traditional methods of pain management. However, intravenous narcotics of any type can provoke hemodynamic or respiratory complications in these compromised patients. Nursing expertise is a key factor in the successful implementation of PCA in critically ill patients
Support for Significant Others of Elderly Cardiac Patients
Authors: Fournet Kathleen
Published: January 2016

In the United States, approximately 12.5 million persons aged 65 and older have some form of cardiovascular disease, and many of these will experience an acute cardiac event. The ensuing crisis necessitates the formulation of a strong support system with the spouse or other significant person. The nurse is in a unique position to be at the helm of this support structure. The ultimate goal is to enable the older heart patient to return home and to be safely guided to as full a recovery as possible within physical limitations
Care of Infants with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Authors: Smith Janis B. , Vernon-Levett Paula
Published: January 2016

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a common congenital heart defect that is universally fatal without surgical intervention. Two distinctly different surgical options, heart transplantation and reconstructive surgery, have been successful in treating infants with HLHS. This article reviews the anatomy and pathophysiology of HLHS. Preoperative care of infants with HLHS is discussed. The care required by infants with HLHS after heart transplantation is the same as that required by other infants who need heart transplant and has been reported. The primary focus of this report is postoperative care after staged reconstructive surgery for infants with HLHS
Understanding the Febrile State According to an Individual Adaptation Framework
Authors: Henker Richard , Shaver Joan
Published: January 2016

Fever is a common problem in the critically ill that is often treated by nurses. Decisions regarding treatment of fever would be more informed if based upon research related to fever. The authors, in this article, present an individual adaptation framework for conceptualizing the components of the febrile state important to practice, and review some of the existing research related to development, assessment, and treatment of fever
Visitation in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Controversy and Compromise
Authors: Page Nancy E. , Boeing Nancy M.
Published: January 2016

Much controversy has arisen in the last few decades regarding parental and family visitation in the intensive care setting. The greatest needs of parents while their child is in an intensive care unit include: to be near their child, to receive honest information, and to believe their child is receiving the best care possible. The barriers that exist to the implementation of open visitation mostly are staff attitudes and misconceptions of parental needs. Open visitation has been found in some studies to make the health-care providers’ job easier, decrease parental anxiety, and increase a child’s cooperativeness with procedures. To provide family-centered care in the pediatric intensive care unit, the family must be involved in their child’s care from the day of admission. As health-care providers, the goal is to empower the family to be able to advocate and care for their child throughout and beyond the life crisis of a pediatric intensive care unit admission
Beginning the Journey to Skilled Communication
Authors: Thornby Denise
Published: January 2016

Intimidating behavior and deficient interpersonal skills create a culture of silence, where there can be a breakdown in team communications and an inability to collaborate and achieve high-quality outcomes. A study from VitalSmarts (Provo, Utah), Silence Kills: The Seven Crucial Conversations for Healthcare, described 7 crucial conversations healthcare professionals struggle with that contribute to patient harm and unacceptable error rates. The American Association of Critical-Care Nurses’ first standard (from AACN Standards for Establishing and Sustaining Healthy Work Environments: A Journey to Excellence), skilled communication, states: “Nurses must be as proficient in communication skills as they are in clinical skills.” Once it is accepted that being competent in skilled communication is essential to excellent patient care, it then takes skill development and added courage to hold crucial conversations and address difficult situations. The first step begins with a self-assessment to determine current effectiveness as a communicator and manager of conflict and to realize opportunities for growth. Three key strategies to begin the development of skilled communication include: (1) understanding the importance of a climate of safety, (2) acknowledging one’s mental stories, and (3) realizing that the only people we control are ourselves.
Elimination of Central Line–associated Bloodstream Infections
Authors: Posa Patricia J. , Harrison Denise , Vollman Kathleen M.
Published: January 2016

Central line–associated bloodstream infections are considered to be an avoidable complication of care delivery. In addition to considerable morbidity and use of resources, central line–associated bloodstream infections carry an attributable morality between 12% and 25%. The estimated cost per infection is approximately $25 000. Research over the last decade has focused on a number of care activities that have been shown to reduce the incidence of bloodstream infections related to central line placement in the critically ill patient. A significant reduction or elimination of central line-associated bloodstream infections can occur with implementation of a comprehensive central line–associated bloodstream infection prevention program that includes staff education, hand hygiene, use of maximal sterile barrier precautions, chlorhexidine gluconate skin antisepsis, avoidance of femoral lines, empowerment of staff to stop the procedure if sterile technique is broken, and daily assessment of the continued need for a central line. This article focuses on strategies for implementing a comprehensive central line–associated bloodstream infections prevention program and a tool and process for defect analysis as part of a statewide collaborative in Michigan.
Respect in Critical Care
Authors: Rushton Cynda Hylton
Published: January 2016

Demonstrating respect is the hallmark of excellence in caring for critically ill patients and their families. Understanding the meaning of respect and the strategies that foster it are foundational for nurses as interdisciplinary healthcare professionals. Basically, respect is the act of esteeming another. Demonstrated by word and deed, it is fostered by attending to the whole person by involving the patient and family in decision making, providing family-centered care, bearing witness, and adopting a broader perspective marked by cultural humility. By creating processes that ensure everyone’s views are heard, healthcare professionals as well as patients and their families are supported. One key process, known as the “Council Process,” shifts dialogue from telling to discovering, from judging to inquiring; it neutralizes conjecture, fosters the acceptance of moral conflict, and protects the integrity of healthcare professionals and their organizations. Acknowledging respect as a foundational ethical principle is the first step toward relationally rich healthcare environments for patients, families, and professionals.
Prevention of Gastrointestinal Complications in the Critically Ill Patient
Authors: Martin Beth
Published: January 2016

Common pathophysiologic changes associated with critical illness directly contribute to the development of gastrointestinal (GI) complications. In addition, supportive interventions such as mechanical ventilation and vasopressors increase the risk of GI complications. Early, specific signs of GI complications are rarely present; therefore, because of late or missed diagnosis, morbidity and mortality related to these complications can be high. This article aims to review the pathophysiology of GI dysfunction and describe an approach to evaluate the abdomen in the critically ill patient. Risk can be limited by understanding individual patient characteristics, thoughtfully evaluating the risk-benefit profile of all interventions, and implementing preventive strategies.
Preventing Torsades de Pointes by Careful Cardiac Monitoring in Hospital Settings
Authors: Sommargren Claire E. , Drew Barbara J.
Published: January 2016

In the electrocardiogram, the QT interval represents the time it takes the ventricular myocardium to repolarize. Prolongation of the QT interval indicates congenital or acquired abnormality of cardiac membrane channels. In the critical care setting, acquired long QT interval most commonly results from administration of common pharmacologic agents, including some antiarrhythmics and antibiotics. Patients with prolonged QT interval may be at risk for developing torsades de pointes and cardiac arrest. Furthermore, new-onset bradyarrhythmias and electrolyte disorders may increase this risk. Warning signs of impending sustained torsades de pointes include occurrence of polymorphic ventricular ectopic complexes, T-wave alternans, and nonsustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. Measurement and documentation of the QT interval, corrected for heart rate (QTc), is an important component of cardiac monitoring in the critical care setting. When prolonged QTc occurs in patients at risk, specific clinical interventions must be implemented to prevent the occurrence of torsades de pointes.
Pediatric Obesity in Acute and Critical Care
Authors: Kline Andrea M.
Published: January 2016

Pediatric obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. Significant obesity-related comorbidities are being noted at earlier ages and often have implications for the acute and critically ill child. This article will review the latest in epidemiologic trends of pediatric obesity and examine how it affects multisystem body organs. The latest data evaluating the specific effects of obesity on acute and critically ill children will be reviewed. Available nonpharmacologic, pharmacologic, and surgical strategies to combat pediatric obesity will be discussed.
A Faculty Practice Plan for the Acute Care and Critical Care Nurse
Authors: Nardi Deena , Wilson Carol
Published: January 2016

This article discusses faculty clinical practice and explains the steps that one group of nursing faculty used to develop a faculty practice plan at a private college of nursing in a small, faith-based university in a mid-western city. The goal of the faculty practice plan was to link faculty interests and advanced practice skills with targeted populations and community needs. This was done to provide healthcare services to schools, agencies, health and human services programs, and populations in need. Examples of faculty roles in the faculty practice domains of educator, researcher, and expert clinician in an acute care setting illustrate how nurses can individualize their participation in the faculty practice plan to support their professional career goals. Faculty practice plans can benefit not only nursing faculty but also the college of nursing, its students, and its community and populations of interest.
Promoting Research in Clinical Practice
Authors: Kleinpell Ruth M.
Published: January 2016

Promoting the use and conduct of research in clinical practice is an essential component in ensuring best practices and promoting positive outcomes for patients. Yet, it is often difficult for nurses in clinical practice to devote time to research activities because the daily demands of practice often take precedence. This article reviews key strategies for implementing research in clinical practice. Examples of ongoing initiatives being conducted at a variety of clinical settings are highlighted to showcase strategies for implementing clinically focused research projects.
Challenges of Implementing a Feasibility Study of Acupuncture in Acute and Critical Care Settings
Authors: Lindquist Ruth , Sendelbach Sue , Windenburg Denise C. , VanWormer Arin , Treat-Jacobson Diane , Chose David
Published: January 2016

A majority of people in the United States use complementary and alternative therapies, and this use is increasing. With the increasing interest, providers must evaluate potential risks and benefits of these therapies. This article describes challenges of a feasibility study of acupuncture as a potential therapeutic adjunct to prevent atrial fibrillation following coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Institutional review board approval, consent logistics, implementation issues, and rapid changes in clinical practice were the primary challenges faced. Unique technological features of the institution helped address these challenges. The study protocol was acceptable to staff, patients, and family and was considered safe for these patients. However, the protocol was not feasible as designed; therefore, the efficacy of acupuncture could not be determined. Continued research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture to prevent atrial fibrillation following coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Recommendations for future studies of complementary and alternative therapies in acute and critical care settings are offered.
Current Concepts of Neurohormonal Activation in Heart Failure
Authors: Lee Christopher S. , Tkacs Nancy C.
Published: January 2016

Neurohormonal activation is a commonly cited array of phenomena in the body’s physiologic response to heart failure. Although various neurohormones and pharmacologic agents that moderate their pathophysiologic effects have been reviewed in the nursing literature, both the mechanisms of neurohormonal system activation and cellular and organ system effects have been described only in brief. Accordingly, this article reviews mechanisms of neurohormonal activation and describes cellular and cardiovascular effects of the (1) sympathetic nervous system, (2) renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, (3) kallikrein-kininogen-kinin system, (4) vasopressinergic system, (5) natriuretic peptide systems, and (6) endothelin in the context of heart failure. This article implicitly details the physiologic basis for numerous current and potential future pharmacologic agents used in the management of heart failure. It is intended that this article be used as a reference for advanced clinical nursing practice, research, and education.
Pressure Modes of Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Burns Suzanne M.
Published: January 2016

Numerous pressure modes are currently available on ventilators. The application of microprocessor technology has resulted in sophisticated mode options that are very responsive to patient-initiated efforts, yet little is known about how to use the modes or their effect on patient outcomes. This article describes a wide variety of pressure modes including traditional modes such as pressure support and pressure-controlled ventilation in addition to less traditional new modes such as airway pressure release ventilation, biphasic positive airway pressure, Pressure Augmentation (Bear 1000, Viasys Healthcare, Yorba Linda, California), Volume Support (Maquet, Bridgewater, New Jersey), Pressure Regulated Volume Control (Maquet, Bridgewater, New Jersey), Volume Ventilation Plus (Puritan Bennett, Boulder, Colorado), Adaptive Support Ventilation (Hamilton Medical, Switzerland), and Proportional Assist Ventilation (Dräger Medical, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada). The “good, the bad, and the ugly” issues surrounding the application, evaluation, and outcomes of the modes are discussed.
Sedation Management in the Mechanically Ventilated Critically Ill Patient
Authors: Fuchs Eunice M. , Von Rueden Kathryn
Published: January 2016

Sedation management in the mechanically ventilated critically ill patient is a topic of continuing interest in the critical care literature. The wide variety of clinical practices described in the literature with regard to sedation management has limited the implementation of evidence-based practice guidelines. Common themes for a coherent sedation management strategy include articulation of indications for sedation, initial and daily evaluation of sedation goals, sedation-level assessment, appropriate sedative selection, effective sedation management strategy, and efficient sedation weaning strategy. We provide a summary of the literature on key aspects of sedation in clinical practice. Evidence-based recommendations are provided for clinicians involved in the management of sedation in mechanically ventilated patients.
Go to the Head of the Class
Authors: McKinley Mary G.
Published: January 2016

Facing that first day as an educator who is new to the role or new to the institution can be daunting. An organized orientation program can facilitate educators’ assimilation into their role and provide assistance in understanding their duties and responsibilities. Orientation should be individualized according to the learning needs of the new educator and should provide information on hospital expectations, structure, and environment. A part of the educator’s orientation should focus on understanding educational processes and resources available within the new institution. A well-structured and well-designed orientation process facilitates the development of the clinical educators so they truly can go to the head of the class.
Hematologic Complications of Critical Illness
Authors: Munro Nancy
Published: January 2016

All critically ill patients are at risk for hematological complications during their hospitalization. It is essential that critical care nurses understand the hematological system and common complications. The purpose of this article is to briefly review some basic hematologic concepts involving each of the 3 cell lines: the white blood cell, the red blood cell, and platelets. The content focuses on how to assess these cell lines when there is dysfunction. Examples of disease processes involving the increased and decreased production of each cell line as well as destruction processes are discussed from a critical care perspective. The critical care nurse needs to continually incorporate this information into practice as research continues to formulate critical care practice.
Physiological Rationale and Current Evidence for Therapeutic Positioning of Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Johnson Karen L. , Meyenburg Tim
Published: January 2016

Prolonged bed rest is common in critically ill patients, and therapeutic positioning is important to prevent further complications and to improve patient outcomes. Nurses use therapeutic positioning to prevent complications of immobility. This article reviews therapeutic positions including stationary positions (supine, semirecumbent with head of bed elevation, lateral, and prone) and active repositioning (manual, continuous lateral rotation, and kinetic therapy). The physiological rationale and current evidence for each position are described. Applicable evidence-based practice guidelines are summarized. Special considerations for therapeutic positioning of critically ill obese and elderly patients are also discussed.
Critical Illness Neuromyopathy and Muscle Weakness in Patients in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Fan Eddy , Zanni Jennifer M. , Dennison Cheryl R. , Lepre Scott J. , Needham Dale M.
Published: January 2016

Neuromuscular complications of critical illness are common and can be severe and persistent in some patients. Neuromyopathy from critical illness and disuse atrophy from prolonged immobility contribute to muscle weakness acquired while in the intensive care unit. Although various risk factors (eg, severity of illness, corticosteroids, neuromuscular blocking agents) have been implicated in critical illness neuromyopathy (CINM), the evidence supporting these associations is inconsistent. Hyperglycemia may be an important risk factor for CINM, with tight glycemic control through intensive insulin therapy reducing the incidence of CINM. Early mobility in the intensive care unit may minimize disuse atrophy and possibly CINM, through exercise training and its anti-inflammatory effects. Although emerging data have demonstrated the safety, feasibility, and benefit of early mobility in critically ill patients, randomized controlled trials are needed to thoroughly evaluate its potential benefits on patients’ muscle strength, physical function, and quality of life. Future studies are needed to elucidate the multiple mechanisms by which immobility, CINM, and other aspects of critical illness lead to muscle loss and neuromuscular dysfunction.
Ultrasonography Versus Chest Radiography After Chest Tube Removal for the Detection of Pneumothorax
Authors: Saucier Sandra , Motyka Carrie , Killu Keith
Published: January 2016

Background

Bedside ultrasound technology is an innovative, cost-effective, safe, and reproducible method used to make efficient decisions that directly affect the care of critical care patients.

Purpose

To validate the use of ultrasound technology when compared with the use of standard chest radiography for the detection of pneumothorax following chest tube removal.

Methods

A prospective observational comparison study of 50 cardiothoracic patients with surgically placed pleural chest tubes was conducted. The accuracy of bedside ultrasound technology was compared with standard chest radiography to detect pneumothorax.

Results

The sample κ statistic was 1.000, indicating a perfect agreement between bedside ultrasonography and chest radiography in the detection of pneumothorax. Completion of the bedside ultrasound procedure took significantly less time than chest radiography.

Conclusions

Bedside ultrasound technology is as accurate as chest radiography in detecting pneumothorax following chest tube removal and can save institutions’ time and money.
Impact of Chronic Critical Illness on the Psychological Outcomes of Family Members
Authors: Hickman Ronald L. , Douglas Sara L.
Published: January 2016

The uncertain trajectory of chronic critical illness exposes the patient’s family to heightened levels of psychological distress. Symptoms of psychological distress affect more than half of family members exposed to the patient’s chronic critical illness. Although symptoms often dissipate over time, a significant proportion of family members will remain at moderate to high risk for psychological distress well after the patient’s death or discharge from the intensive care unit. Family members of chronically critically ill patients are often involved in the decision making for the patients. Irrational or uninformed decision making can occur when family members experience high levels of psychological distress. Attention to the psychological needs and provision of support to family members enhance the formulation of treatment decisions consistent with the patient’s preferences and mitigate unnecessary resource use. In this article, the impact of chronic critical illness on family members’ risk for depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder is described and a review of evidence-based strategies to support the psychological needs of family members coping with a patient’s chronic critical illness is provided.
Opioid Tapering in Children
Authors: Fisher Deborah
Published: January 2016

Purpose

To synthesize and critically analyze literature related to pediatric opioid withdrawal.

Design

Critical review of literature related to pediatric opioid tapering and withdrawal.

Methods

Studies published in peer-reviewed journals were systematically searched using Cochrane, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and PsychINFO. Articles meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed and analyzed for themes and similarities.

Findings

The majority of published research has focused on the episodic nature of withdrawal symptoms during opioid tapering. Only 1 study produced a valid and reliable pediatric opioid withdrawal symptom assessment–instrument and 1 study produced a valid and reliable pediatric opioid and benzodiazepine symptom assessment instrument. One study conducted in an adult and pediatric population analyzed the effect of the use of an opioid taper algorithm on occurrence and nature of opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Conclusions

The scope of research on pediatric opioid withdrawal is limited. Studies examining the effect of an opioid taper algorithm on incidence of withdrawal symptoms in children are sorely needed. Further validation of the 2 withdrawal assessment tools for children is warranted.
Comparison of Blood Glucose Management Strategies to Achieve Control Following Cardiac Surgery (Computerized Versus Paper)
Authors: Halpin Linda , Henry Linda , Dunning Elizabeth , Hunt Sharon , Barnett Scott , White Janice , Ad Niv
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Blood glucose control can be time-consuming and difficult to achieve. We hypothesized that a computerized system to obtain glucose control would enable faster “time to target” and produce less variability in blood glucose levels.

Methods

Patients who underwent cardiac surgery at a community hospital between January and December 2007 (n = 1131) with glucose control obtained under a paper protocol were compared with similar patients operated on between January and December 2008 (n = 769) whose glucose control was obtained with a computer-driven protocol.

Results

Glucose control was achieved in both groups. The computer group had less variability in glucose levels than the paper group. The mean time to target for the computer group was 3.5 (±1.3) hours. The time to target for the paper group was quite skewed; therefore, the median time to target was 6 hours.

Conclusions

The computer-driven protocol achieved excellent glycemic control.
Resuscitation of Combat Casualties
Authors: Marshall William B.
Published: January 2016

Resuscitation and trauma anesthesia of combat casualties is very similar to trauma care in any US hospital—except for the setting. Using case examples, this article describes the principles of trauma anesthesia and resuscitation and the lessons learned regarding the modifications required when caring for a combat casualty. Examples of a massive trauma resuscitation (>10 units of packed red blood cells in 24 hours) and burn resuscitation are presented.
Open Access Revolution: Is it a paradigm shift of scholarly publishing practices? A literature review of global scenario
Authors: Mashroofa Mohamed Majeed
Published: January 2016

This paper aims to provide an overview of open access and its consequences. This focuses especially on open access for scholarly publishing. This is a review of literature, describing the evolution of open access, recent trend and its growth and adoption at global level. Findings of this study are the philosophy of open access has tremendously grown in all over the globe since 2002 and the benefits have leaded the researchers to alter their practices of scholarly communication. Even the research funders and institutions have mandated open access for the dissemination of research findings for which they grant financial assistance. Limited literature regarding open access status in Sri Lanka indicates that there is room for improvement. This paper proposes the Sri Lankan scientists, to adopt open access for scholarly communication practices to maximize visibility and to earn high impact for their research. Similarly, funding agencies, universities and research institutions can formulate open access policy, establish institutional repositories, and motivate publishing in open access journals and archiving in digital repositories for future development and research. Also, this will help librarians to make a strategic decision to develop open science. This study recommends the researchers in Sri Lanka to do an explorative study to identify the local scenario. Journal of the University Librarians’ Association of Sri Lanka, Vol. 19, Issue 1, October 2015, Page 115-135
Idiopathic Pulmonary Lymphoid Diffuse Hyperplasia
Authors: Canessa P.A. , Pratticò L. , Fiasella F. , Cavazza A. , Bacigalupo B. , Fedeli F.
Published: January 2016

We describe a 70 year old woman affected by diffuse pulmonary lymphoid hyperplasia (DPLH). DPLH is a rare clinical-pathological entity generally associated with connective tissue diseases, but we diagnosed our case as an idiopathic DPLH. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of idiopathic DPLH reported in medical literature.
Co-existence of organising pneumonia in a patient with Mycobacterium Avium Intracellulare pulmonary infection
Authors: Jones R.M. , Dawson A. , Evans E.N. , Harrison N.K.
Published: January 2016

Non-tuberculous mycobacterias (NTMs) have many clinical manifestations in humans, depending on the underlying immunological status. We present a patient with Mycobacterium avium intracellulare pulmonary infection and co-existing, biopsy proven non-granulomatous organising pneumonia in distinct regions within the lungs. Treatment consisting of anti-mycobacterial therapy and corticosteroids led to clinico-radiological resolution. This case represents a potential broader clinico-pathological manifestation of Mycobacterium avium intracellulare.
Weight Gain after Smoking Cessation
Authors: Pistelli F. , Aquilini F. , Carrozzi L.
Published: January 2016

Both overweight or obesity and cigarette smoking are relevant risk factors for public health. Cigarette smoking is associated with lower body weight while smoking cessation is associated with weight gain. Most smokers who quit experience a weight gain, particularly within one year, and it may persist up to 8 years after smoking cessation. However, only a minority of quitters gain excessive weight. Some individual characteristics have been found to be associated with excessive weight gain after smoking cessation while methodological problems may affect estimates of weight gain observed in different studies. Main mechanisms to explain weight gain after smoking cessation include increased energy intake, decreased resting metabolic rate, and decreased physical activity. The health benefits of smoking cessation far exceed any health risks that may result from smoking cessation-induced body weight gain. As weight gain may be a barrier against quitting smoking or a reason to restart smoking, behavioural and pharmacological methods have been evaluated to control weight gain after smoking cessation. Physicians should apply efficient strategies to promote smoking cessation on their weight-concerned smoking patient. This review briefly addresses some issues on the relationship between smoking cessation and weight gain, with regard to the size of the problem, mechanisms, health risks and control strategies.
ADSORPTION STUDIES OF BASIC DYES ONTO TEAK (TECTONA GRANDIS) LEAF POWDER
Authors: Mishra Yash , Sowmya V. , Shanthakumar S.
Published: January 2016

In this study, the adsorption potential of Teak (Tectona grandis) leaf powder (TLP) to remove Methylene blue (MB) and Malachite Green (MG) dye molecules from aqueous solution was investigated. Batch experiments were conducted to evaluate the influence of operational parameters such as, pH (2-9), adsorbent dosage (1-7 g/L), contact time (15-150 minutes) and initial dye concentration (20-120 mg/L) at stirring speed of 150 rpm, on the adsorption of MB and MG on TLP. The maximum removal efficiency of 98.4% and 95.1% was achieved for MB and MG dye, respectively. The experimental equilibrium data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherms and it was found that it fitted well to the Freundlich Isotherm model. The surface structure and morphology of the adsorbent was characterized using Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the presence of functional groups and its interaction with the dye molecules were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR). Based on the investigation, it has been demonstrated that the teak leaf powder has good potential for effective adsorption of Methylene blue and Malachite green dye.
Radioactive 131Iodine body burden and blood dose estimates in treatment for differentiated thyroid cancer by external probe counting
Authors: Ravichandran Ramamoorthy , Al Balushi Naima
Published: January 2016

Radioactive131 iodine (RAI) body burden is estimated in thyroid cancer patients by a) exposure rate meter and b) external probe counting. A calibration factor of 301 cpm/MBq (d = 16 cm) is used for the probe for estimates of whole body activity. Patients sit in a rotating stool with their center corresponding to the field of view for estimation of whole body RAI. Radioactive counts are obtained foranterio posterior (AP) and postero anterior (PA) geometries. Whole body retention factor is expressed as a ratio against assayed activity administered to the patient on day 1. With exposure rate measurement, for off-thyroxin (hypothyriod) patients, the retention factors were 0.148 ± 0.12 (n = 211) and 0.07 ± 0.08 (n = 68) at 48 h and 72 h, respectively. For recombinant TSH (rhTSH) (euthyroid) group, the retention factors were 0.089 ± 0.06 (n = 24) and 0.05 ± 0.05 (n = 19) at 48 h and 72 h, respectively. By probe counting method, the obtained retention factors were 0.081 ± 0.013 (range: 0.071-0.096) (off-thyroxine group) and 0.039 ± 0.03 (range: 0.008-0.089) for the rhTSH group at 48 h. The 72 h retentions in the off thyroxine (hypothyriod) group and the rhTSH (euthyroid) group were 0.048 ± 0.024 (range: 0.016-0.076) and 0.005, respectively. The radioactive body burdens at 48 h were in the range of 290-315 MBq (7.8-8.5 mCi) for the off-thyroxine group and 44-286 MBq (1.2-7.7 mCi) for the rhTSH group. The calculated residence times in whole body were 21.97 ± 3.8 h (range: 17.1-27.1) for off-thyroxine group and 14.28 ± 2.75 h (range: 9.97-19.46) showing high statistical significance (P < 0.001). The specific blood doses were 0.118 ± 0.025 mGy/MBq (range: 0.083-0.172) for the off-thyroxine group (females n = 23); 0.87 ± 0.028 mGy/MBq (range: 0.057-0.130) (females n = 13), 0.080 ± 0.013 mGy/MBq (range: 0.069-0.098) (males n = 5) and 0.080 ± 0.028 (range: 0.059-0.118 for rhTSH patients (males n = 4). The mean mGy/MBq for blood was higher in females--about 10% for the rhTSH group compared to 40% higher for the off thyroxine (THW) group. The dose to blood was "inversely proportional" to the body weight, both in the off-thyroxine group and the rhTSH group but the dependence was not very strong with rhTSH administration because of less residence time of the radioactive iodine. There was no correlation between administered activity and retained body burden at 48 h or 72 h.
Quantitative assessment of radionuclide uptake and positron emission tomography-computed tomography image contrast
Authors: Francis Hasford , Amuasi John , Kwame Kyere , Vangu Mboyo
Published: January 2016

Radionuclide uptake and contrast for positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) images have been assessed in this study using NEMA image quality phantom filled with background activity concentration of 5.3 kBq/mL fluorodeoxyglucose (F-18 FDG). Spheres in the phantom were filled in turns with water to mimic cold lesions and FDG of higher activity concentrations to mimic tumor sites. Transaxial image slices were acquired on the PET-CT system and used for the evaluation of mean standard uptake value (SUV mean ) and contrasts for varying sphere sizes at different activity concentrations of 10.6 kBq/mL, 21.2 kBq/mL, and 42.4 kBq/mL. For spheres of same sizes, SUV mean increased with increase in activity concentration. SUV mean was increased by 80.6%, 83.5%, 63.2%, 87.4%, and 63.2% when activity concentrations of spheres with a diameter of 1.3 cm, 1.7 cm, 2.2 cm, 2.8 cm, and 3.7 cm, respectively, were increased from 10.6 kBq/mL to 42.4 kBq/mL. Average percentage contrast between cold spheres (cold lesions) and background activity concentration was estimated to be 89.96% for the spheres. Average contrast for the spheres containing 10.6 kBq/mL, 21.2 kBq/mL, and 42.4 kBq/mL were found to be 110.92%, 134.48%, and 150.52%, respectively. The average background contrast variability was estimated to be 2.97% at 95% confidence interval (P < 0.05).
Can ultrasound predict malignancy in patient with thyroid cold nodule?
Authors: Wiyanto Joko , Kartamihardja Achmad , Nugrahadi Trias
Published: January 2016

Thyroid nodule is one of the most common endocrine diseases in the world; it occurs in 4-7% of the general population. Depending on the method of discovery, 4-8% nodules are discovered using palpation, 10-41% with ultrasound (US), and 50% through autopsy where only 20% or less of cold thyroid nodules are caused by cancerous lesions. The aim of this study was to assess US as supporting modality for thyroid scintigraphy to predict malignancy in patient with thyroid cold nodules. In a retrospective study between 2009 and 2013, we analyzed 399 subjects with cold thyroid nodule, where 39 subjects (36 women and 3 men) presented with malignant thyroid cold nodule and 19 subjects underwent US. The US showed malignancy parameters in 8 (42.11%) subjects, while the rest of the 11 (57.89%) subject were benign. Out of all the subjects who underwent US in this study, only 8 (42.11%) subjects shown malignancy characteristics in cold thyroid nodule with  papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). That means US parameters of malignant thyroid nodule do not always show up in malignant cold thyroid nodule.
Is the increased septal perfusion the signal of asymmetrical septal hypertrophy?
Authors: Ozdemir Semra , Tan Yusuf , Gazi Emine
Published: January 2016

In this study, we have compared scintigraphic and echocardiographic data in order to investigate whether increased septal perfusion represents asymmetrical septal hypertrophy (ASH), which is a symptom followed in the scintigraphy of myocardial perfusion. The study consists of a total of 186 patients (120 females and 66 males with an average age of 59.45 ± 11.54 years) who had normal myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and echocardiography examinations. Statistical comparison of septal wall thickness measurements obtained from echocardiography and septal-to-lateral wall ratios (S/L ratio) was performed scintigraphically. Left ventricular mass values were obtained as both scintigraphic and echocardiographic data and their correlations were evaluated in order to assess the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). In statistical analyses, the values of interventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd), left ventricle posterior wall thickness in diastole (LVPWd), left ventricle mass (LVM), and left ventricle mass index (LVMI) were found to be significantly higher in group 2 (S/L ratio >1) compared to group 1 (S/L ratio <1). In addition, S/L ratio is significantly correlated with echocardiographic IVSd, LVPWd, LVM, LVMI, and scintigraphic LVM (rest) values. Furthermore, echocardiographic LVM and LVMI values were significantly correlated with LVM and LVMI values obtained from scintigraphy. It should be known that increased S/L ratio that can be monitored during scintigraphic studies can be an indicator of septal hypertrophy and/or LVH, however, further examination and close follow-ups should be performed in necessary cases.
Can neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio be a predictor for bone metastases of solid tumors?
Authors: Caliskan Billur , Korkmaz Ayşe
Published: January 2016

Cancer-associated inflammation has been receiving increased attention due to its role in cancer development. It is known that tumors can cause an inflammatory reaction and inflammatory cells play an important role in neoplastic growth. In this study, we aimed to investigate any relationship between bone metastases and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Patients who were referred for bone scintigraphy to investigate bone metastasis were enrolled in the study. Patients′ hematological parameters were obtained from the hospital database retrospectively. Patients with a nonmetastatic bone scan were categorized as Group A (N = 171), patients who had metastatic bone disease without any other organ metastases were categorized as group B (N = 25), and patients who had metastatic bone disease with the other organ metastases were categorized as Group C (N = 48). The median NLR of the patients in Group A was 2.55 (range: 0.38-20.7), in Group B was 2.83 (range: 1.56-31.8), and in Group C was 4.12 (range: 1.79-38). NLR was significantly higher in Group C patients compared to Group A and B patients (P < 0.001). In conclusion, the NLR is significantly associated with the other organ metastases but has no significant correlation with bone metastases.
A Comparative Evaluation of Three Commercially Available Dentin Desensitizers on the Shear Bond Strength of Composite Resins: An in vitro Study
Authors: Patil Shruti , Shetty Prajna
Published: January 2016

Background

The dentin desensitizers available for in-office application for prevention and/or treatment of post restorative dentinal hypersensitivity, act by blocking the open dentinal tubules. In doing so, they may influence the bond strength of the restorative resins. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of desensitizers on the shear bond strength of dentin adhesives and to check the extent of dentinal tubule occlusion caused by these desensitizers.

Materials and Methods

Sixty-four premolars were randomly divided into four groups of sixteen each. The middle depth dentin was exposed by on the buccal surface and was etched using 37% phosphoric acid and rinsed. They were assigned to, Group 1: Gluma desensitizer, Group 2: Vivasens desensitizer, Group 3: Gluma Comfort Bond and desensitizer, and Group 4: Adper Single Bond 2. Composite resin post of 2 mm in height and width were built on these specimens. The samples were then mounted in acrylic resin blocks. Universal testing machine was used to test the shear bond strength. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc Tukey's test.

Results

The mean values of the shear bond strength were for: Group 1—18.61 ± 1.03 MPa, Group 2—17.53 ± 1.36 MPa, Group 3—22.63 ± 1.61 MPa and Group 4—23.12 ± 1.02 MPa. There was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) among the groups.

Conclusion

The use of dentin desensitizers’ influences bond strength between the tooth and the adhesive. Among the various agents, the single bottle system containing Gluma comfort bond and desensitizer had the best adhesion among the desensitizer groups.

How to cite this article

Patil S, Naik B, Shetty P. A Comparative Evaluation of Three Commercially Available Dentin Desensitizers on the Shear Bond Strength of Composite Resins: An in vitro Study. J Contemp Dent 2015;5(2):65-68.
Variant Anatomy of Mandibular First Permanent Molar: A Case Series
Authors: Shenoi Pratima R , Kubde Rajesh , Badole Gautam P , Singare Pooja
Published: January 2016

The advent of new dental imaging techniques and equipments, dental operating microscopes and loupes in endodontics have proved to be a boon for clinicians today. One of the causes of endodontic failure is missed canals. These technologies have greatly improved the ability to detect the presence of extra canals and thus seem to improve the success rate of endodontic treatment and the prognosis of endodontically treated tooth. The present article is a case series describing the endodontic management of two mandibular first permanent molars, one having two roots with six canals and other with three roots and five canals.

How to cite this article

Shenoi PR, Kubde R, Badole GP, Singare P. Variant Anatomy of Mandibular First Permanent Molar: A Case Series. J Contemp Dent 2015;5(2):113-117.
Editorial
Authors: Pinto Adilson Luiz , Schmitz Rafaela Paula , Murriel-Torrado Enrique
Published: January 2016

http://dx.doi.org/10.5007/1518-2924.2015v21n45p1

Caros leitores. É com muita alegria que lançamos o primeiro número de 2016 (vol. 21, n. 45, jan./abr.) da Encontros Bibli: Revista Eletrônica de Biblioteconomia e Ciência da Informação. Na edição deste número utilizamos uma imagem interna da Biblioteca Central da Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, no qual gostaríamos de agradecer os seus diretores (Horacio Degiorgi e Adrián Mendez) por gentilmente disponibilizar uma de suas fotografias. Também gostaríamos de agradecer ao Conselho Editorial da revista, os pareceristas por avaliarem para este número e os autores por cederem seus estudos à Encontros Bibli. Nesta edição publicamos seis Artigos, um Ensaio e um Relato de Experiência. Os artigos publicados foram: - Perspectivas e Desafios na Transparência das Contas Públicas: um estudo numa Instituição de Ensino Superior brasileira (Janyluce Rezende Gama e Georgete Medleg Rodrigues Correio); - Bibliotecas Públicas e o Acesso às Informações Artísticas (Alessandro Rasteli e Rosângela Formentini Caldas Correio); - A Métrica Servqual na Avaliação da Satisfação dos Usuários da Biblioteca Central da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (Rudimar Antunes da Rocha e Andrea Aparecida Silva Correio); - Bens Culturais Digitais: reflexões conceituais a partir do contexto virtual (Marina Gowert dos Reis, Juliane Conceição Primon Serres e João Fernando Igansi Nunes Correio); - Gamificação em Bibliotecas: despertando a motivação nos usuários (Adriana Stefani Cativelli, Diego Monsani e Jordan Paulesky Juliani Correio); - Educação à Distância, Bibliotecas Polo e os Recursos Informacionais: uma pesquisa-ação (Maria Elizabeth de Oliveira Costa e Beatriz Valadares Cendón Correio). O ensaio publicado foi de Robson da Silva Teixeira e Rodrigo Otavio Lopes de Souza Correio, intitulado “Empresas de Tecnologia da Informação com Foco na Economia Sustentável”; e o Relato de Experiência foi de Raquel do Rosário Santos, Henriette Ferreira Gomes e Emeide Nóbrega Duarte Correio, com o título “Processo Dialógico entre Bibliotecários e Usuários: reflexão em torno da utilização dos dispositivos de comunicação da web social”. Boa leitura a todos.