bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University and industry partnerships: Lessons from collaborative research
Authors: Gaskill Deanne , Morrison Paul , Sanders Fran , Forster Elizabeth , Edwards Helen , McClure Sandra , Fleming Rosanne
Published: October 2003

Collaborative research between educational institutions and health agencies is being increasingly used as a method of achieving joint outcomes and bringing together theory and practice. This paper reports on the experiences of collaboration that arose out of just such a project carried out in a residential aged care setting. The research team included university academics, two nurses in management positions in the aged care facility and a senior research assistant. In this paper, we explore some of the unexpected issues that emerged during implementation of the research project. The major challenges to successful collaboration arose not from within the collaborative research team, but from the responses of the broader staff who generally had little, if any, experience of research. Despite efforts to inform and involve staff, deep suspicions about the ‘real’ motives of the project proved difficult to shift. Trust and commitment are vital dimensions of successful collaborative research, yet gaining these from some staff proved elusive. Collaborative relationships between educational and practice settings need to be viewed as long‐term endeavours driven by a common unifying goal to enhance client care. This has implications for costs and timelines which might be difficult to manage.
Ants as egg predators of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Australian cotton crops
Authors: Mansfield Sarah , Elias Natalie V , Lytton‐Hitchins James A
Published: October 2003

Abstract Helicoverpa armigera is a major pest of Australian cotton crops. To assess the impact of ant predation on H. armigera populations, the behaviour of four common ant taxa was observed in cotton crops in northern New South Wales over the 1999−2000 and 2001−02 seasons. Areas of cotton were artificially stocked with H. armigera eggs prior to observation. Pheidole spp. were the most frequently observed ants within the crop canopy in 1999−2000 and took the most H. armigera eggs. Iridomyrmex spp. were more frequently observed than Pheidole spp. in 2001−02 and also took some H. armigera eggs. Neither Paratrechina spp. nor Rhytidoponera metallica (Smith) took any H. armigera eggs, although both were seen in the crop canopy. Irrigation, cultivation and insecticide application disrupted foraging ants and limited their impact on H. armigera populations.
Revision of thePepila fuscomaculataspecies‐group and description of four new species from Australia (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Alticinae)
Authors: Biondi Maurizio , D’Alessandro Paola
Published: October 2003

AbstractThePepila fuscomaculataspecies‐group from Australia, includingP. fuscomaculata(Baly 1877),P. hypocrita(Blackburn 1896),P. submetallescens(Baly 1877),P. tumbyensis(Blackburn 1896),P. blackburnisp. n.,P. brittonisp. n.,P. nikitinisp. n. andP. reidisp. n., is analysed. A key to all the species is presented. Line drawings of male and female genitalia of all species are included. Brief ecological and zoogeographical data are also reported.
Apiomorpha gullanae sp. n., an unusual new species of gall‐inducing scale insect (Hemiptera: Eriococcidae)
Authors: Cook Lyn G
Published: October 2003

Abstract An unusual new species of the gall‐inducing scale insect genus Apiomorpha Rübsaamen is described from Queensland. The adult female, its gall, and the first‐instar nymph (crawler) are illustrated, and relationships of the new species are estimated using mitochondrial COII data. Adult females induce cigar‐shaped galls on leaves of several eucalypts in section Adnataria of subgenus Symphyomyrtus. The bilobed anal lobes of the adult female differ from those of all other Apiomorpha species (single lobe) and the first‐instar nymph possesses features, such as broad frontal tubercles and dorsal stripes, that are not present in crawlers of other Apiomorpha species. However, DNA sequence data confirm that the new species falls within Apiomorpha, rather than representing a sister group, and indicate that the new species is not closely related to the A. pharetrata (Schrader) species‐group, the only other group within Apiomorpha that induces cigar‐shaped galls on leaves. The systematic affiliations of A. gullanae sp. n. are currently not known. Females only are known and there is some indication that reproduction in the new taxon is parthenogenetic. This represents the first putative case of parthenogenesis in Apiomorpha.
Carbon dioxide concentrations in the nests of the mud‐dwelling mangrove ant Polyrhachis sokolova Forel (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Nielsen Mogens Gissel , Christian Keith , Birkmose Dorthe
Published: October 2003

Abstract The nests of the mangrove ant Polyrhachis sokolova are found in soil in intertidal mangrove communities, and are thus inundated at high tides for several hours. Some of the nest galleries are flooded, but others retain air pockets, to which the ants retreat. During and following inundation, we measured carbon dioxide concentrations in air samples collected from different levels in the nests and from artificial ‘control’ holes in the mud. To account for the relative contribution of different sources of carbon dioxide, we also measured the carbon dioxide production by individual ants (including larvae and pupae) and small samples of mud collected near the ant nests. Nest carbon dioxide concentrations were high (2.5−11%) during and immediately following inundation, but the concentrations in the upper regions of the nest fell as soil water levels receded. However, at depths>10 cm below the level soil surface, the carbon dioxide concentrations remained relatively high and stable (at approximately 2%) over the 11 days between one high tide and the next. The contribution of the mud (and associated microorganisms) to the carbon dioxide concentration in the nests was substantial, and the contribution of the respiration of the ants was approximately 10−15% of the total. The carbon dioxide concentrations in the nests of this species during high tides are among the highest recorded for insect nests, suggesting that these ants may have unusual physiological attributes to match the behavioural and ecological challenges associated with living in the intertidal zone.
Influence of a dorsal trash‐package on interactions between larvae of Mallada signata (Schneider) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)
Authors: Anderson Kylie L , Seymour Jamie E , Rowe Richard
Published: October 2003

Abstract Larvae of the native Australian chrysopid Mallada signata use discarded prey items and environmental debris (‘trash’), carried on the dorsal abdominal segments, as camouflage. Larvae that carry trash were confirmed experimentally to experience lower rates of cannibalism, an effect attributed to the camouflage conferred by the package. Larvae preferred physically hard material over normal dietary items when constructing their trash‐package. The inclusion of these materials in the package may provide both physical and chemical camouflage from predator and prey alike. When encounter rates between conspecifics were low, larvae that carried trash increased their activity rates as they aged. In contrast, trash‐denuded larvae decreased activity rates as they aged. Among first‐instar larvae, as the density of larvae increased and encounters became more frequent, those with trash moved further than those without. Larvae with trash packages exhibited lower cannibalism and higher activity rates, which may subsequently enhance foraging capacity.
Trichomes of Lycopersicon spp. and their effect on Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Simmons Aaron T , Gurr Geoff M , McGrath Des , Nicol Helen I , Martin Peter M
Published: October 2003

Abstract The green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) is becoming resistant to many of the pesticides used in the tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) industry. A potential alternative method of control is host‐plant resistance, which may be mediated by trichomes. Resistance to the green peach aphid was assessed for six accessions of L. hirsutum, three of L. pennellii and a L. esculentum control. Mortality, entrapment and number of aphids unaffected by trichomes were recorded 24, 48 and 72 h after placement. Using multiple regression against counts of glandular and non‐glandular trichomes, the role of foliar pubescence in resistance to the aphid was established. Lycopersicon pennellii possessed the highest level of resistance after 72 h and type IV trichome density accounted for 26.5% of variance in mortality (P < 0.001). Low densities of type IV and high densities of type VII trichomes increased the number of aphids ‘unaffected’ by trichomes, a relationship accounting for 29% of variance (P < 0.001). Information on which types of trichomes most strongly affect resistance to insect pests will aid future breeding and L. pennellii shows potential for use in breeding programs to increase levels of host‐plant resistance in L. esculentum.
Serum insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 and IGF‐binding protein‐3 do not correlate with Gleason score or quantity of prostate cancer in biopsy samples
Authors: Ismail H.A. , Pollak M. , Behlouli H. , Tanguay S. , Bégin L.R. , Aprikian A.G.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship of serum insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 and IGF binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3) with histological cancer characteristics in men undergoing transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided biopsy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients (652), with either an elevated serum prostate‐specific antigen level or an abnormal digital rectal examination, were initially evaluated by TRUS and sextant prostatic needle biopsy. Blood was drawn before biopsy, serum extracted and stored frozen until IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 were measured. In all, 241 patients had prostate cancer (37%) and were included in this study. The number of positive biopsies, the volume of tumour in each positive biopsy and the Gleason score were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 241 patients, 37 had five or six positive biopsies (from six), 128 had two to four and 76 had one. Serum IGF‐1 did not correlate with the number of positive biopsies, with means of 176.7, 178.3 and 164.4 ng/mL, respectively (P = 0.3), while the mean IGFBP‐3 was 2695, 2795 and 2572 ng/mL, respectively (P = 0.09). The additive percentiles of tumour volume in positive biopsies were assessed for each patient but serum IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 did not correlate (P = 0.7 and 0.9, respectively). In all, 92 patients had a Gleason score of < 7, 80 a score of 7 and 69 a score of > 7; the mean (sd) IGF‐1 levels for the three groups were 181 (39), 174.6 (35) and 176 (26) ng/mL, and the mean IGFBP‐3 2798 (240), 2735 (284) and 2647 (221) ng/mL, respectively, none of the differences being statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum IGF‐1 and IGFBP‐3 do not correlate with quantity of cancer or Gleason score in biopsy samples from patients with prostate cancer.
The natural history of hydronephrosis after radical hysterectomy with no intraoperatively recognisable injury to the ureter: a prospective study
Authors: Paick S.H. , Oh S.J. , Song Y.S. , Kim H.H.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To investigate, in a prospective study, the natural history of hydronephrosis of the urinary tract after radical hysterectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From December 1997 to March 2001, 34 patients with localized cervical cancer underwent radical hysterectomy by one gynaecologist, with no intraoperatively identifiable injury to the ureter. Intravenous urography was used routinely before and at 2 and 4 weeks after surgery. The degree of hydronephrosis was graded I–IV.

RESULTS

Urography before surgery showed no abnormal finding in any of the patients, except in one with a unilateral duplex kidney. Hydronephrosis was found in 10 units in the upper tract (grade II in eight, III in one and IV in one) in seven patients (21%) 2 weeks after surgery (one right, three left and three bilateral). All the ureteric narrowing was in the distal ureter. The hydronephrosis disappeared in four units in three patients, but became worse in two units in two patients with bilateral pathology in the fourth week. At 3 months after surgery no hydronephrosis had deteriorated and the hydronephrosis in all units had disappeared by 6 months. The presence of hydronephrosis was significantly correlated with pathological stage and age (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Hydronephrosis was detected after radical hysterectomy even with no intraoperatively recognisable injury to the ureter, but in most the hydronephrosis improved spontaneously and needed no ureteric stenting or surgical intervention.
Investigation of neurokinin‐2 and ‐3 receptors in the human and pig bladder
Authors: Templeman L. , Sellers D.J. , Chapple C.R. , Rosario D.J. , Hay D.P.W. , Chess‐Williams R.
Published: October 2003

Authors from Sheffield and the USA investigated the role of neurokinin receptors in mediating contraction of detrusor muscle strips from human and pig. They found that NK‐2 receptors subtypes mediate neurokinin A‐induced contraction of the detrusor muscle, and that the NK‐3 receptor appears not to have such a role.

Another study, from a variety of European and American centres, determined the expression and plasma membrane location of isoforms of Na,K‐ATPase in the rat ventral prostate; they were localised in the lateral and basolateral plasma membrane domain prostatic epithelial cells, and the authors draw conclusions about the significance of these findings.

Finally authors from Yale University investigated the effects of castration on the expressions of endothelins, endothelin receptors and converting enzyme‐1 in the rat seminal vesicle. Their findings led them to suggest that testosterone has a regulatory role in the expression of the endothelin receptor system in the rat seminal vesicle.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of neurokinin (NK)‐2 and ‐3 receptors in mediating the contraction of detrusor muscle strips from human and pig, to determine whether the pig is a good model for the study of tachykinin receptors in the human bladder, as the biological actions of tachykinins, e.g. substance P and NKA are mediated via three distinct receptor subtypes, NK‐1, ‐2 and ‐3.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Strips of detrusor muscle were obtained from the bladder dome and neck of female pigs and from patients undergoing cystectomy. Cumulative concentration‐response curves to NKA were obtained in the absence and presence of either the NK‐2 receptor‐selective antagonist SR48968 or the NK‐3 receptor‐selective antagonist SB223412.

RESULTS

NKA produced concentration‐dependent contractions in the human and pig detrusor muscle; the curves were shifted to the right by SR48968, with high affinity (pKB 8.9, 8.3 and 8.0 in the human, pig dome and pig neck, respectively), whereas SB223412 had a minimal effect (pKB 5.8, 5.8 and 6.3, respectively).

CONCLUSION

These data confirm that the NK‐2 receptor subtype mediates NKA‐induced contraction of the human and pig detrusor muscle. The NK‐3 receptor appears to have no role in detrusor contraction of either species. The results also provide evidence that the NK‐2 receptor in human and pig are the same, and the latter may be an appropriate species to study tachykinin‐induced contractions in human bladder.
The impact on health‐related quality of life of stress, urge and mixed urinary incontinence
Authors: Coyne K.S. , Zhou Z. , Thompson C. , Versi E.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To examine the impact of each type of urinary incontinence (stress, urge, and mixed) on health‐related quality of life (HRQL).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The USA National Overactive Bladder Evaluation (NOBLE) programme of prevalence was used to identify respondents with incontinence based upon telephone survey responses. A nested case‐control study was then conducted on respondents with symptoms of an overactive bladder (OAB), and on age and gender‐matched controls; this consisted of the respondents completing a series of questionnaires, including the OAB‐q (an HRQL scale for OAB), the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Short‐Form‐36 (SF‐36), the MOS Sleep Scale, and the Center for Epidemiological Studies ‐ Depression (CES‐D) scale. Respondents were categorized into subgroups according to the primary cause of urine loss, i.e. sudden/uncomfortable urge to urinate (urge, UI), physical pressure (stress, SI), or both (mixed, MI). Descriptive analyses, t‐tests and analysis of variance with post hoc comparisons were used.

RESULTS

Of the 919 participants in the nested case‐control study, 171 reported incontinence, i.e. UI (69), SI (62) and MI (40). Among this cohort, 82.5% were female, 85.4% were Caucasian and the population had a mean age of 55.9 years. All OAB‐q subscale scores were significantly (P < 0.01) worse among those with MI than with SI. Respondents with UI reported significantly higher levels of symptom bother and lower sleep scores (both P < 0.001) than those with SI. There were no differences in HRQL between the MI and UI groups. Voiding frequency and nocturia episodes did not differ among the groups but compared with the SI group, both UI and MI groups reported significantly higher ratings of urinary urge intensity (P < 0.001) and rated their need for medical care significantly higher (P < 0.01). The MI group reported more incontinence episodes (P = 0.02) than the SI group.

CONCLUSION

Compared with SI, respondents with UI and MI reported not only significantly greater ratings of urinary urge intensity and more incontinence episodes, but also significantly worse HRQL. These results are consistent with previous findings which indicated a greater impact on HRQL for the urge component of MI than for the stress component.
Pregnancy after lower urinary tract reconstruction for congenital abnormalities
Authors: Greenwell T.J. , Venn S.N. , Creighton S. , Leaver R.B. , Woodhouse C.R.J.
Published: October 2003

Authors from London evaluated 20 women with treated and reconstructed congenital urinary tract abnormalities, and assessed the effect this might have on renal function, pregnancy and delivery. They found that pregnancy had no long‐term effect on renal function and did not compromise reconstruction. However, there was a substantial complication rate and an increased need for Caesarean section. Nevertheless they felt pregnancy in women such as these is safe for mothers and baby.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of pregnancy on renal function, and the effect of congenital urinary tract abnormality and reconstruction on pregnancy and delivery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The case notes were reviewed of 20 women (median age 32.5 years) who had had 29 live babies. Data collected included patient demographics, congenital urological abnormality, urological reconstructive procedure(s) and any subsequent urological complications. Pregnancy details, including urological and obstetric complications, presentation and mode of delivery, were obtained via a postal questionnaire from the relevant obstetrician.

RESULTS

Seven patients had exstrophy‐epispadias, seven spinal dysraphism, two sacral agenesis, and one each cerebral palsy, epispadias, imperforate anus and small bladder with vesico‐ureteric reflux and congenital incontinence. They had had a mean (range) of 5.7 (1–12) urological reconstructive procedures each. Patients with exstrophy‐epispadias had significantly more operations (mean 7.8) than those with spinal dysraphism (mean 4.14) or other diagnoses (mean 2.6) (P < 0.01). At the last follow‐up 13 patients had an enterocystoplasty, six a neobladder and one an ileal conduit. Pregnancy‐related urological complications were urinary tract infection in 15, upper tract obstruction requiring nephrostomy and stent in three, Mitrofanoff difficulties in two and pyelonephritis in one. There was no significant deterioration in glomerular filtration rate or serum creatinine after pregnancy. Only 10 of the births were normal or assisted vaginal deliveries. Seven patients had emergency and 12 had elective Caesarean sections for obstetric indications, including four breech births in the seven patients with vesical exstrophy.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy has no long‐term effect on renal function and does not compromise reconstruction. Although there is a substantial complication rate and an increased need for Caesarean section, pregnancy in women with lower urinary tract reconstruction for congenital urological abnormalities is ultimately safe for both mother and baby. Interdisciplinary co‐operation is desirable for a successful outcome.
Regulatory effect of castration on endothelins, their receptors and endothelin‐converting enzyme in rat seminal vesicle
Authors: Takahashi W. , Yono M. , Wada Y. , Ikeda K. , Weiss R.M. , Latifpour J.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of castration on the expression of endothelins (ETs), ET receptors and ET converting enzyme‐1 (ECE‐1) in the rat seminal vesicle (RSV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague‐Dawley rats (3 months old) were surgically castrated or sham‐operated, and then killed 7 days after surgery. Biochemical and pharmacological properties and the location of ET receptors in the RSV were determined by a series of binding experiments with [125I]ET‐1, using membrane particulates and slide‐mounted frozen sections of RSV. Expression levels of ETA and ETB receptor subtypes, ET‐1, ET‐3 and ECE‐1 mRNAs were assessed by relative multiplex reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

RESULTS

The density of total ET receptors increased significantly in the seminal vesicle of the castrated rat. The predominance of the ETA receptor subtype in the RSV did not change with castration. Autoradiographic studies showed the presence of ET receptors on the smooth muscle and epithelium of the RSV. In addition, RT‐PCR showed an up‐regulation in the expression of ETA and ETB receptor subtypes, ET‐1 and ECE‐1 mRNAs in the seminal vesicle of the castrated rat. However, castration caused no significant change in the expression levels of ET‐3 mRNA.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest a regulatory role for testosterone in the expression of the ET receptor system in the RSV.
Assessing self‐help issues for patients with prostate cancer, interstitial cystitis, erectile dysfunction and urinary diversion
Authors: Breau R.H. , McGrath P.J. , Norman R.W.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of self‐help (which is widely available and can assist clinicians to educate and empower patients) for several urological diseases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using a structured interview, the prevalence of self‐help use and awareness was assessed in patients with prostate cancer, interstitial cystitis, erectile dysfunction and urinary diversion. Patients were also asked to report levels of support and information they required and to specify how well these needs were being met. Consecutive patients (120, 30 from each group) were recruited from an outpatient urology clinic in a tertiary‐care health centre.

RESULTS

Patients with interstitial cystitis and erectile dysfunction reported having the greatest need but were least satisfied with the level of support and information they currently receive. Inversely, patients with prostate cancer reported having the least need and were most satisfied. Excluding brochures, the use and awareness of self‐help were low in all groups but most patients claimed they would use many types of self‐help if they were available. Many patients are not directed to self‐help resources by their urologist or family physician.

CONCLUSION

Most patients would like to use more self‐help but many do not. The low percentage of patients referred to self‐help by their physician probably contributes to, or causes, this problem. It is important for clinicians to encourage and refer patients to specific resources to ensure that the patient receives accurate and pertinent information. As most patients read brochures it is logical to use them to provide basic information and to direct them to other more sophisticated forms of self‐help. We have used urology patients as a model but consider that many of our findings could be applied to other medical and surgical specialities.
Immediate dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry reveals a high incidence of osteoporosis in patients with advanced prostate cancer before hormonal manipulation
Authors: Hussain S.A. , Weston R. , Stephenson R.N. , George E. , Parr N.J.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To examine the incidence of osteoporosis in patients with advanced prostate cancer (using forearm densitometry) before commencing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), as osteoporotic fractures are more frequent in patients with prostate cancer who have undergone either medical or surgical castration, because of rapid loss of bone mass.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 174 patients (mean age 74.6 years, range 46–90) with advanced prostate cancer presented over 2 years. Their forearm bone densitometry values were compared with those from 106 age‐matched controls (mean age 74.3 years, range 66–90).

RESULTS

Of the 174 patients, 73 (42%) were osteoporotic (t score ≤− 2.5) and 65 (37%) were osteopenic (t score − 1 to − 2.4). This compares with a 27% incidence of osteoporosis in the control group (P = 0.022). There were also no significant correlations between prostate specific antigen levels, Gleason score, tumour stage, biochemical markers and the presence or absence of osteoporosis risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Patients with advanced prostate cancer requiring ADT have a high incidence of osteoporosis before treatment. In addition, osteoporosis in these men cannot be predicted from clinical or biochemical values. Therefore, bone densitometry should be used in all patients with advanced cancer requiring ADT, as the results have implications for the choice of cancer therapy and the prophylaxis for osteoporosis.
Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation
Authors: McHarg T. , Rodgers A. , Charlton K.
Published: October 2003

Cranberry juice is popular remedy for many ills; apart from the pleasant tasting many people drink it to help in preventing UTIs and stones. Authors from Cape Town (where there is the added benefit of an excellent climate) assessed the influence of cranberry juice on urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate calculi in a randomized crossover trial, showing that it has anti‐lithogenic properties. In the second paper, authors from Jerusalem report on 14 patients with distal ureteric strictures after kidney transplantation, all of whom were treated endourologically. They found transurethral incision of the distal ureteric stricture to be effective.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential influence of cranberry juice on urinary biochemical and physicochemical risk factors associated with the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones, as this product might affect the chemical composition of urine.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Urinary variables were assessed in a randomized cross‐over trial in 20 South African men (students) with no previous history of kidney stones. The first group of 10 subjects drank 500 mL of cranberry juice diluted with 1500 mL tap water for 2 weeks, while the second group drank 2000 mL of tap water for the same period. This was followed by a 2‐week ‘washout’ period before the two groups crossed over. During the experimental phase subjects kept a 3‐day food diary to assess their dietary and fluid intakes; 24‐h urine samples were collected at baseline and on day 14 of the trial periods, and analysed using modern laboratory techniques. Urine analysis data were used to calculate the relative urinary supersaturations of calcium oxalate, uric acid and calcium phosphate. Data were assessed statistically by analysis of variance.

RESULTS

The ingestion of cranberry juice significantly and uniquely altered three key urinary risk factors. Oxalate and phosphate excretion decreased while citrate excretion increased. In addition, there was a decrease in the relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate, which tended to be significantly lower than that induced by water alone.

CONCLUSION

Cranberry juice has antilithogenic properties and, as such, deserves consideration as a conservative therapeutic protocol in managing calcium oxalate urolithiasis.
Effects on pain and anxiety of patients viewing their cystoscopy in addition to a detailed explanation: a controlled study
Authors: Kesari D. , Kovisman V. , Cytron S. , Benjamin J.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effect of allowing patients to watch their cystoscopy on closed‐circuit television and with an explanation during the procedure, with an explanation alone, as involving patients in the process of minimally invasive procedures like colonoscopy or colposcopy has been reported to alleviate pain and anxiety, but these effects may differ in patients who desire participation and those who do not.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Of 51 patients undergoing cystoscopy for the first time, 27 watched the procedure and received explanations, and 24 received explanations alone. They completed an anxiety questionnaire and visual analogue scales (VAS) of anxiety before and after the procedure. Before the procedure they also completed an assessment of desire to be involved in medical decisions and procedures (Kranz Health Opinion Survey, KHOS), and afterwards recorded the pain they had experienced on a scale of 1–10.

RESULTS

Anxiety (assessed by VAS) declined after the procedure (P < 0.001) but the anxiety questionnaire showed no change. There was a positive correlation between the KHOS and VAS after the procedure; the more the patient was an ‘information seeker’ the higher the anxiety. Neither pain nor anxiety were affected by watching the monitor, whether or not KHOS scores were entered as a cofactor. Age and sex had no effect on the results. There were no complications.

CONCLUSION

There was no effect of watching the cystoscopy on anxiety and pain. Possibly the explanation received by both groups left no room for further improvement in the intervention group.
Tubularized incised‐plate urethroplasty for distal and proximal hypospadias
Authors: Samuel M. , Wilcox D.T.
Published: October 2003

OBJECTIVE

To describe the tubularized incised‐plate (TIP) urethroplasty for distal and proximal hypospadias.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

TIP urethroplasty was undertaken in 83 consecutive boys (mean age 14.1 months, sd 7.8) within the past 3 years; 65 (78%) had distal and 18 (22%) proximal penile hypospadias. This was the primary attempt at hypospadias repair in all children.

RESULTS

All patients were assessed 7 days after surgery at the time of dressing and catheter removal, and subsequently at a median of 4 months in the clinic, before being discharged. The overall late complication rate was 12% and 10% required a second operation. There was a urethrocutaneous fistula in three (5%) of those with distal and in one of the 18 with proximal penile hypospadias (P = 0.56). Glans dehiscence in distal hypospadias occurred in one (1%) and three, respectively (P = 0.01). Secondary surgery for fistula repair and glans closure was successful in all patients. All children void with a single straight urinary stream in a forward direction, and have a normally situated vertical slit‐like glanular meatus.

CONCLUSIONS

TIP urethroplasty is a versatile, simple operation with good cosmetic results, which uses the urethral plate to its maximum potential.
The clinical implications of the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial
Authors: Marberger M. , Adolfsson J. , Borkowski A. , Fitzpatrick J. , Kirk D. , Prezioso D. , Rabaça C. , Solsona E. , Teillac P.
Published: October 2003

The Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial has been mentioned before in the Comment Section, but several questions were raised by the publication of the results of the trial. These are addressed here and the trial is described in some detail. This review is a good starting point for people interested in the chemoprevention of prostate cancer to review critically the results of the trial for themselves.

Percutaneous nephrostomy for decompression of an obstructed kidney has become an essential part of urological practice, and nephrostomy tubes are also being used in many other endourological procedures. The authors give their opinion as to what constitutes an ideal nephrostomy tube, and comment on the pros and cons of various different types.

The third mini‐review describes the use of trans‐oceanic telerobotics, and describes the development and current use of their new technology.

Disclosures: This manuscript was an outcome of the European Prostate Cancer Forum, which is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Merck & Co., Inc.
Preputial infibulation: from ancient medicine to modern genital piercing
Authors: Schultheiss D. , Mattelaer J.J. , Hodges F.M.
Published: October 2003

Procedures to prevent the eversion of the foreskin have been in use since antiquity for various reasons. Beginning in ancient Rome as a supposed means of preserving the voice, preputial infibulation largely disappeared in Europe until it experienced a revival during the Victorian era as a clinical weapon in the medical ‘war on masturbation’. Although circumcision was the most common method of preventing masturbation in the USA and Britain, infibulation was frequently used as an alternative, being used in mental institutions and orphan asylums, and receiving endorsement from leading medical authorities.
Identification of the genetic variants of κ‐casein in milk by isoelectric focusing electrophoresis
Authors: Molina L H , Casanova M , Gonzalez L A , Pinto M , Carrasco E , Brito C
Published: October 2003

The genetic variants of κ‐casein (κ‐CN) A and B were analysed in milk from Holstein–Friesian (HF) and Jersey cows by means of isoelectric focusing (IEF) electrophoresis. Milk samples were obtained in triplicate from pure‐breed HF and Jersey cows (three of each) to estimate the protein content, casein and purify κ‐CN. The protein and casein contents in the milk from both breeds were statistically different (P < 0.05). The κ‐CN A migrates first with an isoelectric point (pI) of 7.2–7.3 and then B with a pI of 7.5–7.7. Differences in the expression proportion of both variants were detected.
The effects of some starter cultures on the properties of Turkish White cheese
Authors: Daǧdemi̇r Eli̇f , Celi̇k Serafetti̇n , Ozdemi̇r Sali̇h
Published: October 2003

White cheese samples were manufactured from bovine milk using three different commercial direct vat starter cultures (DVS‐1, ‐2 and ‐3) and a lyophilized culture, and ripened at 4 ± 1°C for 90 days. The composition, titratable acidity and ripening indices of the cheese samples were determined on the 2nd, 30th, 60th and 90th days of ripening. The ratios of total solids, protein and fat were higher for cheeses manufactured using DVS‐2 and lyophilized cultures but the titratable acidity in cheese produced using DVS‐3 and lyophilized cultures was higher (P < 0.01). The mean value of the ripening indices of the cheese produced using the lyophilized culture was lower than the cheeses produced with added DVS cultures (P < 0.05). The total solids, ash, salt ratios, titratable acidity and ripening indices values increased for all types of white cheeses during ripening (P < 0.05).
The effects of the combined use of stabilizers containing locust bean gum and of the storage time on Kahramanmaraş‐type ice creams
Authors: Guven M , Karaca O B , Kacar A
Published: October 2003

This study was aimed primarily at determining the suitability of locust bean gum and various stabilizers in the production of Kahramanmaraş‐type ice creams, the physical, chemical and sensory properties of the ice creams produced, and the stabilizer combination that could produce the best quality ice cream. With a total amount of stabilizer of 1.0%, ice creams of four different combinations containing locust bean gum, carboxymethyl cellulose, guar gum and sodium alginate were produced and their properties during a 6‐month storage period compared with the control sample produced using only salep extract (Orchis orchida).

 The ice cream produced using only the salep extract had significantly higher (P < 0.05) levels of titratable acidity, lower pH and viscosity values, and were harder and less resistant to melting compared to those produced with the stabilizer combinations. The stabilizer mixtures containing locust bean gum yielded better results than those with the salep extract. An analysis of the effect of storage time on the properties of the ice creams indicated that, of the physical properties examined, only the decrease in the penetrometer values was significant (P < 0.05). Apart from the difference observed in the third month during the storage of the ice creams produced with the salep extract, the differences during the storage time were not found to be significant (P > 0.05).
Feta cheese texture: the effect of caprine and ovine milk concentration
Authors: Tsigkros D , Folland E , Moate R , Brennan C S
Published: October 2003

Feta cheese was produced commercially with different caprine to ovine milk ratios. Milk fat concentrations, moisture and salt contents were similar for all the batches. However, the hardness and adhesive characteristics of the cheeses differed in relation to the milk ratio. The hardness of the cheese appeared to be correlated to increased goat milk content. Cryo‐scanning electron microscopy (cryo‐SEM) of the cheese samples showed that feta cheese with a higher proportion of caprine milk had a more compact and less porous appearance than feta produced from purely ovine milk. This difference in cheese structure helps to explain the difference in hardness between the samples.
Studies on the development of beverages using fruit juice/pulp, separated milk and reconstituted skim milk
Authors: Shukla F C , Sharma A , Singh B
Published: October 2003

Studies were carried out on the development of beverages using fruit juice/pulp, separated milk and reconstituted skim milk. Beverages were prepared by blending juice/pulp from apples, bananas, guavas, litchis and mangos at four different concentrations (100, 200, 300 and 400 g/L) with separated and reconstituted skim milk. Organoleptic evaluation of the beverages showed that apple juice and guava pulp could be blended at up to 300 and 100 g/L in milk products, respectively. Banana and mango pulp could also successfully be used at up to 200 g/L in separated milk and reconstituted skim milk. Litchi juice could be blended up to 300 g/L in separated milk and 200 g/L in reconstituted skim milk.
Food process engineering and dairy technology at the Technical University of Munich
Authors: Kulozik Ulrich , Guilmineau Fabien
Published: October 2003

The Chair for Food Process Engineering and Dairy Technology at the Technical University of Munich in Freising‐Weihenstephan has been installed since 1992 in a new building hosting modern and well‐equipped laboratories and pilot‐plant facilities. Its objectives in terms of research are to participate in the development of the scientific understanding of complex food systems and their constitutive components, and the way they interact with the process during manufacturing. The aim is to allow the production of food products with desired properties, improved quality and optimal safety, while ensuring an efficient use of raw materials and of the energy required for industrial production. The methodology used involves the fractionation of complex systems and the systematic study of their constitutive components taken in isolation as well as in various combinations. Milk, as a naturally complex raw material, receives particular attention, but research activities increasingly extend to other functional food substrates such as eggs. The research activities are organized into three working groups that reflect the core competencies developed at the chair throughout the years: Bio‐Processes and Aseptic Processing, Formation of Structures in Food Systems, and Protein Technology. Its key position within the ‘Centre of Life and Food Science’ of the Technical University of Munich fosters interdisciplinary interactions with many specialized scientists, and therefore provides a broad perspective regarding the comprehension of the complex implications of modern food and pharmaceutical product manufacturing.
The Role of an Advanced Practice Public Health Nurse in Bioterrorism Preparedness
Authors: Mondy Cristin , Cardenas David , Avila Margaret
Published: October 2003

Abstract  The 2001 anthrax events have vividly illustrated that terrorism involving the release of a biological agent is a major public health emergency requiring an immediate and well‐coordinated response. If healthcare professionals and emergency responders are to be prepared to manage such attacks, unprecedented cooperative efforts at the national, state, and local levels are necessary.

To aid such efforts, advanced practice public health nurses (PHNs) must exercise their ability to collaborate with a variety of disciplines and communities. Using the Los Angeles County Public Health Nursing Practice Model, advanced practice PHNs can be trained to deal effectively with acts of bioterrorism. This model defines the practice of public health nursing as working on a population‐based level to create conditions under which healthy people can live within healthy communities. This article will discuss the threat of bioterrorism and describe how the Public Health Nursing Practice Model can be applied to assist advanced practice PHNs in the development of a public health plan for preparedness and response to bioterrorism. Six specific interventions that enable advanced practice PHNs to affect populations at the community and systems level will be discussed along with the implications of bioterrorism for advanced practice public health nursing.
Planning of Youth Violence‐Prevention Programs: Development of a Guiding Measure
Authors: Cooper William O. , Lutenbacher Melanie , Faccia Kate , Hepworth Joseph T.
Published: October 2003

Abstract  This article describes the development and pilot testing of the Good‐Fit Measure (GFM), a measure that public health nurses and other providers involved with planning multidisciplinary violence prevention efforts can use. Themes derived from a series of focus group discussions from a larger study, including individuals (n = 83) from multiple community sectors, guided development of the measure. Participants in three follow‐up focus groups (n = 32 participants) reviewed the measure, which was then pilot tested in two phases. Guided by information from the first phase, in which respondents indicated the measure was too complex, the measure was simplified and field tested in phase two. Results from both phases were similar. The GFM score was significantly higher for the program selected by the respondent before completing the measure than the nonselected program (p < 0.01). Participants indicated that the tool was helpful in articulating the specific factors for their decisions. Participants underscored the utility of the tool in facilitating program planning by individual providers and interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary teams. The GFM provides systematic consideration of multiple factors that motivate public health nurses and other community providers in their decision‐making process when planning prevention strategies, increasing the likelihood of successful programs.
The Application of a Vulnerable Populations Conceptual Model to Rural Health
Authors: Leight Susan Bragg
Published: October 2003

Background: This article describes the application of the vulnerable populations conceptual model to rural health. Vulnerable populations are social groups who have an increased susceptibility to adverse health outcomes. Evidence of this differential in vulnerability or increased risk includes premature mortality, comparative morbidity, decreased functional status, and diminished quality of life.

Organizing Framework: The vulnerable populations conceptual model postulates that there are interrelationships among resource availability, relative risk, and health status. Resource availability speaks to socioeconomic and environmental resources that are operationalized in this model as income, jobs, education, housing, availability of health care, quality of health care, and patterns of family and community life. Relative risk addresses the likelihood of exposure to risk factors and is reflected in lifestyle behaviors and choices and exposure to stressful events. Health status is operationalized as morbidity and mortality.

Findings: This review of the literature supports the utility of the vulnerable populations conceptual model in working with rural populations.

Implications: This model has potential utility to inform nursing research, practice, and policy about the opportunities and resources needed to achieve and maintain health in rural communities.
Keys to the Puzzle: Recognizing Strengths in a Rural Community
Authors: Averill Jennifer
Published: October 2003

Abstract  The elderly population in rural communities is growing. Rural populations generally experience excessive deficiencies in health care access, social services, and other goods and services needed for healthy living. An ethnographic study of multicultural elderly participants from a rural county in New Mexico was completed to explore the participants' definitions of health, health care perceptions, and health care needs. Several key issues regarding health care were identified, including the escalating cost of prescriptions, limited access to primary health care and specialty care, and social isolation and loneliness. However, despite these limitations, existing strengths and assets were also identified: elders' knowledge about sustaining health in austere conditions and caring for the sick using simple measures; an existing group of dedicated professional nurses applying their own and others' knowledge to the challenge of health care; and a preexisting community‐based action group working to decrease fragmentation of services, streamline delivery of services, and work with legislators on funding priorities. Building on these strengths can provide the keys to the puzzle of transforming the current health care environment and improving inadequate health care for these elderly rural community members.
Inoculation with Bartonella Henselae Followed by Feline Herpesvirus 1 Fails to Activate Ocular Toxoplasmosis in Chronically Infected Cats
Authors: Powell CC , Kordick DL , Lappin MR
Published: October 2003

Infection by Toxoplasma gondii is very common in cats although most remain disease free. The factors that trigger development of uveitis in some cats infected with T gondii have not been elucidated, but infection by more than one organism may be contributory. In this study, cats chronically infected with T gondii were inoculated with Bartonella henselae followed by FHV-1 to test the hypothesis that immune stimulation by multiple infections will reactivate ocular toxoplasmosis. Anterior uveitis and chorioretinitis were not detected in the cats with chronic T gondii infection thus allowing rejection of the hypothesis using this experimental design.