bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Eating Fresh Lean Pork on Cardiometabolic Health Parameters
Authors: Murphy Karen J. , Thomson Rebecca L. , Coates Alison M. , Buckley Jonathan D. , Howe Peter R. C.
Published: July 2012

High protein meat-based diets are commonly promoted for weight loss, supposedly by increasing satiety and energy expenditure. Pork is a good source of protein however little information on the metabolic effects of pork consumption exists. This pilot study aimed to examine whether regular consumption of fresh lean pork could improve body composition and cardiovascular risk factors in a 6 month parallel intervention trial. 164 overweight adults (mean BMI 32) were randomly assigned to incorporate up to 1 kg pork/week by substituting for other foods or maintain their habitual diet (control). Plasma levels of lipids, glucose and insulin, BMI, waist/hip circumference, blood pressure, heart rate and arterial compliance were measured at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Body composition was determined using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. A total of 144 volunteers completed and volunteers in the pork group increased their intake 10 fold by substituting pork for mainly beef and chicken. After 3 months, there were significant (p ≤ 0.01) reductions in weight, BMI, waist circumference, % body fat, fat mass and abdominal fat in the pork group relative to controls, which persisted for 6 months. There was no change in lean mass, indicating that the reduction in weight was due to loss of fat mass. There were no significant effects on other metabolic parameters. Regular consumption of lean fresh pork may improve body composition.
The Development of an UAV Borne Direct Georeferenced Photogrammetric Platform for Ground Control Point Free Applications
Authors: Chiang Kai-Wei , Tsai Meng-Lun , Chu Chien-Hsun
Published: July 2012

To facilitate applications such as environment detection or disaster monitoring, the development of rapid low cost systems for collecting near real time spatial information is very critical. Rapid spatial information collection has become an emerging trend for remote sensing and mapping applications. In this study, a fixed-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-based spatial information acquisition platform that can operate in Ground Control Point (GCP) free environments is developed and evaluated. The proposed UAV based photogrammetric platform has a Direct Georeferencing (DG) module that includes a low cost Micro Electro Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Inertial Navigation System (INS)/ Global Positioning System (GPS) integrated system. The DG module is able to provide GPS single frequency carrier phase measurements for differential processing to obtain sufficient positioning accuracy. All necessary calibration procedures are implemented. Ultimately, a flight test is performed to verify the positioning accuracy in DG mode without using GCPs. The preliminary results of positioning accuracy in DG mode illustrate that horizontal positioning accuracies in the x and y axes are around 5 m at 300 m flight height above the ground. The positioning accuracy of the z axis is below 10 m. Therefore, the proposed platform is relatively safe and inexpensive for collecting critical spatial information for urgent response such as disaster relief and assessment applications where GCPs are not available.
A Unifying Review of Bioassay-Guided Fractionation, Effect-Directed Analysis and Related Techniques
Authors: Weller Michael G.
Published: July 2012

The success of modern methods in analytical chemistry sometimes obscures the problem that the ever increasing amount of analytical data does not necessarily give more insight of practical relevance. As alternative approaches, toxicity- and bioactivity-based assays can deliver valuable information about biological effects of complex materials in humans, other species or even ecosystems. However, the observed effects often cannot be clearly assigned to specific chemical compounds. In these cases, the establishment of an unambiguous cause-effect relationship is not possible. Effect-directed analysis tries to interconnect instrumental analytical techniques with a biological/biochemical entity, which identifies or isolates substances of biological relevance. Successful application has been demonstrated in many fields, either as proof-of-principle studies or even for complex samples. This review discusses the different approaches, advantages and limitations and finally shows some practical examples. The broad emergence of effect-directed analytical concepts might lead to a true paradigm shift in analytical chemistry, away from ever growing lists of chemical compounds. The connection of biological effects with the identification and quantification of molecular entities leads to relevant answers to many real life questions.
Microarray Technology for Major Chemical Contaminants Analysis in Food: Current Status and Prospects
Authors: Zhang Zhaowei , Li Peiwu , Hu Xiaofeng , Zhang Qi , Ding Xiaoxia , Zhang Wen
Published: July 2012

Chemical contaminants in food have caused serious health issues in both humans and animals. Microarray technology is an advanced technique suitable for the analysis of chemical contaminates. In particular, immuno-microarray approach is one of the most promising methods for chemical contaminants analysis. The use of microarrays for the analysis of chemical contaminants is the subject of this review. Fabrication strategies and detection methods for chemical contaminants are discussed in detail. Application to the analysis of mycotoxins, biotoxins, pesticide residues, and pharmaceutical residues is also described. Finally, future challenges and opportunities are discussed.
Using a Communication Model to Collect Measurement Data through Mobile Devices
Authors: Bravo José , Villarreal Vladimir , Hervás Ramón , Urzaiz Gabriel
Published: July 2012

Wireless systems and services have undergone remarkable development since the first mobile phone system was introduced in the early 1980s. The use of sensors in an Ambient Intelligence approach is a great solution in a medical environment. We define a communication architecture to facilitate the information transfer between all connected devices. This model is based in layers to allow the collection of measurement data to be used in our framework monitoring architecture. An overlay-based solution is built between network elements in order to provide an efficient and highly functional communication platform that allows the connection of a wide variety of devices and technologies, and serves also to perform additional functions such as the possibility to perform some processing in the network that may help to improve overall performance.
Laser Scanning Measurements on Trees for Logging Harvesting Operations
Authors: Zheng Yili , Liu Jinhao , Wang Dian , Yang Ruixi
Published: July 2012

Logging harvesters represent a set of high-performance modern forestry machinery, which can finish a series of continuous operations such as felling, delimbing, peeling, bucking and so forth with human intervention. It is found by experiment that during the process of the alignment of the harvesting head to capture the trunk, the operator needs a lot of observation, judgment and repeated operations, which lead to the time and fuel losses. In order to improve the operation efficiency and reduce the operating costs, the point clouds for standing trees are collected with a low-cost 2D laser scanner. A cluster extracting algorithm and filtering algorithm are used to classify each trunk from the point cloud. On the assumption that every cross section of the target trunk is approximate a standard circle and combining the information of an Attitude and Heading Reference System, the radii and center locations of the trunks in the scanning range are calculated by the Fletcher-Reeves conjugate gradient algorithm. The method is validated through experiments in an aspen forest, and the optimized calculation time consumption is compared with the previous work of other researchers. Moreover, the implementation of the calculation result for automotive capturing trunks by the harvesting head during the logging operation is discussed in particular.
A Comparative Study of Tour Guides' Interpretation: The Case of Macao
Authors: Io Man-U , Hallo Leonie
Published: July 2012

The present study aims to explore how tour guides' interpretations influence tourists' experience and their interest in heritage tourism. To examine tour guides' interpretation quality, style, and their impact on the tourist experience, a comparative study of sightseeing and on-site
guides was conducted. The results suggest that tour guides should provide tourists with an insightful interpretation and provoke tourists' emotional thoughts in order to help them to achieve a high level of tourist experience with the visited heritage site and arouse their interest in visiting
other relevant heritage sites. In addition to communication competence and knowledge, tour guides' motivation for interpretation is also an important factor influencing the quality and style of their interpretation.
Destination Image Consistency and Dissonance: A Content Analysis of Goa's Destination Image in Brochures and Guidebooks
Authors: Garrod Brian , Kosowska Aleksandra
Published: July 2012

Successful destination marketing requires consistency in the use of imagery. This article employs content analysis and semiotics to examine representations of Goa, both written and visual, as they are transmitted through holiday brochures and travel guidebooks. The findings suggest
that the two media offer substantially different representations. while the former tend to represent Goa as a beach holiday destination, the latter tend to reflect past marketing efforts that have promoted Goa as constituent part of India. These representations tend to be dissonant with one
another and arguably this weakens the image of Goa as a destination. The study recommends that destination marketers collaborate more widely and effectively in order to ensure consistency of their destination imagery.
French nature-based tourist potentials to norway: who are they?
Authors: Tkaczynski Aaron , Prebensen Nina K.
Published: July 2012

Nature-based tourism is perceived as a substantial and growing market for many countries such as Australia, new zealand, and norway. However, despite detailed research into the analysis of motiva- tions and activity preferences of tourists after a tourist experience, little research
has been conducted into identifying potential nature-based tourists' destination choice prior to visitation. Knowledge of these previsitation perceptions of a country's nature-based tourism offerings as perceived by these possible tourists is important for market segmentation and targeting
purposes and subsequent mar- keting campaigns. The present study outlines a sequential procedure to reveal nature-based tourism potentials to norway followed by an online questionnaire of French residence. A two-step cluster analysis is run to segment tourists by their prechoice motivational
preferences (psychographics), number of activities sought (behavioral), age, education, employment, gender, household income, household size, marital status (demographic), and region (geographic). A total of 2,010 French resi- dents who exhibit an interest in nature-based vacations and visiting
norway are segmented into three valid groups according to their variations. It is concluded that these segments differ based on the 10 identified variables. As a result of the findings, recommendations are made including utilizing all four segmentation bases to target the three segments. Future
research opportunities are also outlined.
Shifts in mycorrhizal fungi during the evolution of autotrophy to mycoheterotrophy in Cymbidium (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Ogura‐Tsujita Yuki , Yokoyama Jun , Miyoshi Kazumitsu , Yukawa Tomohisa
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: Mycoheterotrophic plants, which completely depend upon mycorrhizal fungi for their nutrient supply, have unusual associations with fungal partners. The processes involved in shifts in fungal associations during cladogenesis of plant partners from autotrophy to mycoheterotrophy have not been demonstrated using a robust phylogenetic framework.

• Methods: Consequences of a mycorrhizal shift were examined in Cymbidium (Orchidaceae) using achlorophyllous and sister chlorophyllous species. Fungal associates of the two achlorophyllous mycoheterotrophs (C. macrorhizon and C. aberrans), their close relatives, the chlorophyllous mixotrophs (C. goeringii and C. lancifolium) and an outgroup, the chlorophyllous autotroph C. dayanum, were identified by internal transcribed spacers of the nuclear ribosomal DNA sequences.

• Key results: Molecular identification of mycorrhizal fungi revealed: (1) the outgroup autotroph is predominantly dependent on saprobic Tulasnellaceae, (2) the mixotrophs associate with the Tulasnellaceae and ectomycorrhizal groups including the Sebacinales, Russulaceae, Thelephoraceae and Clavulinaceae, and (3) the two mycoheterotrophs are mostly specialized with ectomycorrhizal Sebacinales.

• Conclusion: Fungal partners in Cymbidium have shifted from saprobic to ectomycorrhizal fungi via a phase of coexistence of both nutritional types of fungi. These three phases correspond to the evolution from autotrophy to mycoheterotrophy via mixotrophy in Cymbidium. We demonstrate that shifts in mycorrhizal fungi correlate with the evolution of nutritional modes in plants. Furthermore, gradual shifts in fungal partners through a phase of coexistence of different types of mycobionts may play a crucial role in the evolution of mycoheterotrophic plants.
Projections of suitable habitat under climate change scenarios: Implications for trans‐boundary assisted colonization
Authors: Ledig F. Thomas , Rehfeldt Gerald E. , Jaquish Barry
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: Climate change may threaten endemic species with extinction, particularly relicts of the Arcto‐Tertiary Forest, by elimination of their contemporary habitat. Projections of future habitat are necessary to plan for conservation of these species.

• Methods: We used spline climatic models and modified Random Forests statistical procedures to predict suitable habitats for Brewer spruce (Picea breweriana), which is endemic to the Klamath Region of California and Oregon. We used three general circulation models and two sets of carbon emission scenarios (optimistic and pessimistic) for future climates.

• Key results: Our procedures predicted present occurrence of Brewer spruce perfectly. For the decades 2030, 2060, and 2090, its projected range within the Klamath Region progressively declined, to the point of disappearance in the decade 2090. The climate niche was projected to move north to British Columbia, the Yukon Territory, and southeastern Alaska.

• Conclusion: The results emphasize the necessity of assisted colonization and trans‐boundary movement to prevent extinction of Brewer spruce. The projections provide a framework for formulating conservation plans, but planners must also consider regulations regarding international plant transfers.
Poinsettia's wild ancestor in the Mexican dry tropics: Historical, genetic, and environmental evidence
Authors: Trejo Laura , Feria Arroyo Teresa Patricia , Olsen Kenneth M. , Eguiarte Luis E. , Arroyo Baruch , Gruhn Jennifer A. , Olson Mark E.
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: The poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) is the world's most economically important potted plant, but despite its preeminence it is not clear which wild populations are ancestral to the varieties cultivated around the world. Tradition holds that the U.S. envoy to Mexico J. R. Poinsett collected the progenitors of the over 300 varieties in global cultivation on an 1828 excursion to northern Guerrero State, Mexico. It is unknown whether the contemporary cultivars are descended from plants from Guerrero or whether germplasm from other parts of poinsettia's 2000 km long distribution entered into cultivation during the nearly 200 yr of subsequent poinsettia horticulture.

• Methods: To identify the wild populations that likely gave rise to the cultivars and test this historical account, we sequenced plastid and nuclear DNA regions and modeled poinsettia's potential distribution.

• Key results: The combination of nuclear and plastid haplotypes characterizing cultivars was found only in northern Guerrero. Distribution modeling indicated that suitable habitat conditions for wild poinsettias are present in this area, consistent with their likely wild status.

• Conclusions: Our data pinpoint the area of northern Guerrero as the cultivated poinsettia's probable ancestral region, congruent with the traditional account attributing the original collections to Poinsett. Abundant genetic variation likely offers raw material for improving the many shortcomings of cultivars, including vulnerability to cold, stem breakage, and pathogens such as Pythium and Phytophthora. However, genetic differences between populations make conservation of all of poinsettia's diversity difficult.
Lorsque naissance et mort coïncident en maternité, quel vécu pour les sages-femmes ?
Authors: de Wailly-Galembert Diane , Vernier Dominique , Rossigneux-Delage Pascale , Missonnier Sylvain
Published: July 2012

Résumé Objectifs : évaluer le retentissement sur les sages-femmes de la prise en charge du deuil périnatal. Méthodologie : étude qualitative menée auprès de sages-femmes des trois niveaux de maternités. Entretiens individuels et focus group. Résultats : la souffrance des sages-femmes augmente avec le manque d’anticipation ou l’accumulation des situations de mort en salle de naissance. Certaines pratiques transgressives feront courir le risque d’une effraction traumatique si l’institution n’assure pas sa fonction contenante. Des mécanismes de défense, individuels et collectifs, leur permettront d’assurer un accompagnement empathique des parents endeuillés. Conclusion : une élaboration des pratiques, associée à une anticipation institutionnelle seront nécessaires, au bénéfice de la prise en charge des patientes.
Etude comparative des interactions précoces des mères psychotiques et déprimées avec leur bébé
Authors: Gandillot Sophie , Wendland Jaqueline , Wolff Marion , Moisselin Philippe
Published: July 2012

Résumé Si les interactions précoces mère-nourrisson en cas de dépression maternelle ont été largement étudiées, nous connaissons beaucoup moins celles des mères psychotiques. Les études, comparant les interactions précoces dans le cadre de différentes pathologies mentales maternelles, sont également rares. Cette étude se propose d’évaluer ce qui rapproche et distingue les interactions précoces de mères déprimées et de mères psychotiques en termes de synchronie des comportements, de sensibilité maternelle et de style interactif. L’évaluation des interactions a porté sur dix-huit dyades mère-enfant hospitalisées (dix avec mère psychotique et huit avec mère déprimée). Les dyades ont été filmées en situation de bain. Les interactions ont été analysées à l’aide de deux méthodes complémentaires adaptées pour cette étude : une évaluation quantitative (Belsky, Rovine et Taylor, 1984) et une évaluation qualitative (Care-Index ; Crittenden, 1981). La pathologie maternelle, qu’elle soit dépressive ou psychotique, s’associe avec des styles interactifs dysharmonieux. Les points communs essentiels de ces interactions sont la discordance et la pauvreté des interactions. La dépression maternelle semble plus influer sur la synchronie des interactions et le retrait des deux partenaires. Les dyades avec mère psychotique montrent un plus grand nombre d’interactions qui ne sont pas pour autant plus harmonieuses. Plus que la pathologie, il semble que ce soit le style interactif de la mère qui définit celui de l’enfant. La précocité des réactions du bébé au comportement de sa mère, qu’elle soit déprimée ou psychotique, montre l’importance de l’accompagnement de ces dyades en difficulté.
Une approche spécifique de la psychomotricité en situation palliative
Authors: Marcos Isabelle , Burucoa Benoît
Published: July 2012

Résumé La psychomotricité est une profession paramédicale ressource dans le domaine des soins corporels. Elle est régie par un décret de compétence qui définit le cadre d’exercice. L’approche psychomotrice des soins trouve sa place dans la démarche palliative. Elle peut enrichir la réflexion, la pratique et la qualité du prendre soin au quotidien. Elle s’articule en équipe avec le travail des autres professionnels de santé.
Du modelage au Land Art, un cheminement créatif du dedans au dehors
Authors: Perriraz Bourry Magali , Barbe Rémy
Published: July 2012

Résumé Cet article décrit un dispositif d’art-thérapie pour des adolescents hospitalisés en psychiatrie. L’hypothèse théorique sous-tendant ce travail est la création d’enveloppes multiples comme suppléance et soutien à la reconstitution d’enveloppes psychiques contenantes pour ces patients. Ce dispositif d’atelier ouvert invite les adolescents et les soignants à se rencontrer autour d’un médium expressif, le modelage. Un autre médium est proposé ponctuellement, le Land Art dans le jardin de l’Unité. L’instauration d’un lien de confiance va favoriser le travail psychique au travers des médiums qui correspondent à des moments différents de l’hospitalisation. Les jeunes ont la possibilité de se mettre en création et progressivement de partir à la découverte de formes d’expression non verbales, suscitant des échanges d’idées, puis une élaboration verbale. Deux vignettes cliniques illustrent ce passage.
Développements thérapeutiques des phénomènes transitionnels, les formes essentielles en psychothérapie expressive
Authors: Stitelmann Jacques
Published: July 2012

Résumé Dans cet article, l’auteur présente certains développements actuels du jeu du squiggle de Donald Winnicott dans les psychothérapies expressives. Puis il aborde l’étude de certaines formes particulières qui apparaissent dans les créations des patients, nommées ici les formes essentielles , où résident les potentiels les plus actifs pour l’évolution des problématiques du patient. Ces formes essentielles sont des portes ouvrant vers un autre-soi en train d’advenir. Le schéma d’un modèle est enfin proposé pour comprendre l’évolution des formes essentielles au cours de la thérapie ainsi que pour en faciliter l’accompagnement.
La thérapie assistée par l'animal, description d'un cas clinique
Authors: Lehotkay Rachel , Orihuela-Flores Milton , Deriaz Nicolas , Galli Carminati Giuliana
Published: July 2012

Résumé Dans le cas de personnes avec retard mental sévère à profond, où la communication verbale est limitée, voire absente, les interventions éducatives et psychothérapeutiques conventionnelles n’apportent qu’une amélioration restreinte et soulignent le besoin d’approches innovatrices pour cette population. Bien qu’elle ne soit pas à proprement parler une nouvelle technique, la thérapie assistée par l’animal est une méthode d’intervention utilisée comme auxiliaire aux thérapies conventionnelles, où l’animal joue un rôle d’intermédiaire entre le thérapeute et la personne ciblée. Dans le cas de M. S., qui présente un retard mental sévère et un trouble envahissant du développement de type autisme infantile sévère, la psychothérapie assistée par un chien a permis une baisse significative des troubles du comportement.
Le groupe théâtre comme médiation thérapeutique auprès d'adolescents au processus de subjectivation entravé
Authors: Vandevelde Béatrice , Morhain Yves
Published: July 2012

Résumé Le suivi d’adolescents en Centre Médico-Psycho-Pédagogique a amené les auteurs à une pratique de médiation prenant appui sur le théâtre. Ils se questionnent sur la valeur thérapeutique de l’art dramatique et considèrent que sa dimension imaginaire et sa fonction symbolique ouvrent à la compréhension des mécanismes psychiques mis en jeu dans le groupe théâtre. Plus particulièrement, l’improvisation dramatique est envisagée comme un espace imaginaire qui permet à l’adolescent de jouer avec les identifications fondamentales. Le patient chemine vers la formation de son moi dans une dynamique comparable à celle du stade du miroir . Les auteurs soulignent aussi la fonction du thérapeute, comme garant de la fonction symbolique du groupe théâtre, en tant qu’elle vient soutenir la valeur thérapeutique de l’improvisation dramatique.
Les violences conjugales, phénomène social, problème systémique
Authors: Delage Michel , Sanchez Alexandrine , Bruno Jean-Luc , Degiovani Maryse
Published: July 2012

Résumé Les situations de violences conjugales confrontent les professionnels à beaucoup de difficultés. Les réponses apportées deviennent un problème qu’on peut qualifier de systémique : émiettement des interventions issues de différents champs et pratiques, cloisonnements et clivages, confusions, contradictions, positionnement idéologique de certains. La ligne de démarcation qu’introduisent la société et la loi entre auteur et victime favorise une logique linéaire visant à protéger les victimes et à s’intéresser quelquefois à la psychologie des auteurs. Mais il est difficile de réfléchir entre plusieurs partenaires selon une modalité circulaire, visant une approche globale, s’intéressant à l’enchevêtrement des liens qui unissent auteurs et victimes (y compris les enfants témoins) dans une intersubjectivité souffrante.
Papa n'est pas mort !
Authors: Bullens Quentin , D’Amore Salvatore
Published: July 2012

Résumé Lorsqu’elles consultent dans le cadre de difficultés liées à une séparation, les familles laissent d’abord à voir ce qu’elles ont perdu. Dès lors, se référant aux modèles existants, la clinique systémique s’est beaucoup appuyée sur le rapport au deuil dans de telles situations. Mais les familles séparées nous ont montré qu’elles ne sont pas réductibles ni aux pertes qui les concernent, ni aux modèles cliniques existants. La complexité à laquelle elles renvoient nous amène alors à penser de nouveaux modèles explicatifs et de nouvelles applications cliniques. C’est ce à quoi nous avons voulu contribuer dans le présent article en vue également de penser ces nouvelles familles au travers de nouvelles recherches.
Autonomie et dépendance : deux termes qui s'opposent ?
Authors: Cirillo Stefano
Published: July 2012

Résumé L’article part de la considération que notre culture récompense de façon exagérée l’acquisition de l’autonomie. Successivement, il montre combien placer les patients le long d’un continuum allant du pôle dépendant au pôle autarcique peut se révéler très utile pour les thérapeutes systémiques. Ceci représente une façon assez simple d’intégrer dans notre optique le concept de trait de personnalité sous-jacent à l’étiquette symptomatique.
Des parents co-experts de l'intervention en protection de l'enfant
Authors: Pitteloud Xavier
Published: July 2012

Résumé A partir d’une pratique d’intervenant en protection de l’enfance, l’auteur propose un modèle d’intervention s’engageant dans un processus favorisant la co-expertise parentale. Pour ce faire, il décrira les changements de posture que le professionnel aura à opérer au niveau du cadre et dans la relation qu’il coconstruira avec les parents qu’il rencontre. Pour aller dans ce sens, il décrira deux des outils propres à la thérapie brève centrée sur la solution, modèle de Bruges, que sont l’arbre de décision et le questionnement à partir d’une position de non-savoir. Il traitera aussi de leur adaptation à un contexte de travail social sous mandat. Enfin, il développera les changements de perspective à opérer par le professionnel afin de rendre possible la mise en œuvre d’un tel processus.
Nurse Care Manager Contribution to Quality of Care in a Dual-Eligible Special Needs Plan
Authors: Roth Carol P. , Ganz David A. , Nickels Lorraine , Martin David , Beckman Robin , Wenger Neil S.
Published: July 2012

We evaluated the quality of care provided to older patients with complex needs in a dual-eligible, community-based Medicare Special Needs Plan that used a nurse care manager model. Care provided by physicians was substantially supplemented by nurse care managers, as measured by Assessing Care of Vulnerable Elders quality indicators. We describe selected nurse care manager activities for six geriatric conditions (falls, dementia, depression, nutrition, urinary incontinence, and end-of-life care) during provision of patient care coordination and management for patients in the highest decile of clinical complexity. We identify areas of high nurse performance (i.e., falls screening, functional assessment, behavioral interventions for dementia problems, advance care planning) and areas of potential missed opportunities (i.e., follow up for new memory problems, targeted dementia counseling, nutrition, and behavioral approaches to urinary incontinence). Increasing the collaborative interaction between nurses providing care in this model and physicians has the potential to enhance nurses’ contributions to primary care for vulnerable older adults.
Peer–Led Team Learning Model in a Graduate–Level Nursing Course
Authors: White Pamela , Rowland Amy Beth , Pesis-Katz Irena
Published: July 2012

The peer-led team learning (PLTL) model was introduced into a graduate-level course in health economics at our school of nursing. We believed this collaborative learning program, emphasizing peer-to-peer interaction to solve complex problems, would increase student engagement and mastery of course content. The course was redesigned to accommodate a weekly 1-hour workshop conducted by peer leaders. To gain better understanding of the effect of the PLTL model, focus groups were conducted at the end of the course. Evaluation of the focus group discussions showed that peer-led workshops helped students understand the subject matter. The opportunity to discuss concepts taught during lecture with their peers helped deepen students’ understanding of the material and apply this knowledge in the classroom. These findings support continuation of the PLTL model in future health economics classes and suggest that this approach may be beneficial in other graduate level-nursing courses.
Corneal Collagen Cross-linking Demarcation Line Depth Assessed by Visante OCT After CXL for Keratoconus and Corneal Ectasia
Authors: Yam Jason C.S. , Chan Clement W.N. , Cheng Arthur C.K.
Published: July 2012

PURPOSE:

To report the demarcation line depth after corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) for keratoconus and postoperative LASIK ectasia with Visante (Carl Zeiss Meditec) optical coherence tomography (OCT) and investigate correlations between this depth and preoperative parameters and postoperative visual and keratometry outcomes.

METHODS:

Retrospective interventional case series of 40 eyes with keratoconus or postoperative LASIK ectasia treated with riboflavin ultraviolet-A CXL. Ophthalmic evaluation included uncorrected distance visual acuity, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), corneal topography (Pentacam, Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH), and postoperative anterior segment OCT. Correlation analyses were performed. Statistical significance was indicated by
P
<.05.

RESULTS:

At 6 months postoperative, mean demarcation line depth was 281.4±53.3 μm. Thinner minimal corneal thickness (r=0.413,
P
=.008), older age (r=−0.490,
P
=.001), higher grading of ectasia (for both keratoconus and postoperative LASIK ectasia) (r=−0.332,
P
=.044), female sex (r=0.343,
P
=.030), postoperative LASIK ectasia (r=−0.420,
P
=.007), and longer duration of disease (r=−0.377,
P
=.023) were correlated with shallower demarcation line depth. Forward stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that among all preoperative factors, minimal corneal thickness (standardized β=0.473,
P
=.003) and age (standardized β=−0.317,
P
=.036) were significantly associated with demarcation line depth. The CXL demarcation line depth and change in CDVA (r=−0.16,
P
=.325) and change of the steepest keratometry at 6 months (r=0.084,
P
=.637) were not correlated.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Visante OCT can be used for assessing CXL demarcation line depth. The demarcation line depth may decrease with the severity of ectasia and age.
A Contralateral, Randomized Comparison of Optimized Prolate Ablation and Conventional LASIK for Myopia With the NIDEK Excimer Laser Platform
Authors: El Danasoury Alaa M. , Holladay Jack , Waring George O. , Pieger Stefan , Bains Harkaran S.
Published: July 2012

PURPOSE:

To compare the refractive, visual acuity, topographic, and spherical aberration outcomes of LASIK using the Quest excimer laser platform with the optimized prolate ablation (OPA) profile (NIDEK Co Ltd) in one eye and conventional ablation profile in the fellow eye of the same patient.

METHODS:

Thirty-seven myopic patients underwent LASIK bilaterally, with one eye randomized to receive OPA ablation (−3.88±1.42 diopters [D], range: −1.53 to −7.50 D) and the fellow eye to receive conventional ablation (−3.89±1.37 D, range: −1.75 to −7.00 D). Independent and paired
t
tests were used for testing differences between groups at last postoperative follow-up (6 or 12 months).

RESULTS:

Postoperatively, 97% (32/33) of OPA eyes and 94% (31/33) of conventional eyes saw 20/20 or better without correction (
P
>.05). No eyes lost 2 or more lines of distance corrected visual acuity. Manifest refraction spherical equivalent was −0.16 D in the OPA group and −0.05 D in the conventional group (
P
>.05). Ocular spherical aberration was −0.003 μm in the OPA group and +0.102 μm in the conventional group (
P
<.05). Corneal asphericity was statistically lower after OPA (0.07±0.26) compared to conventional ablation (0.30±0.26) (
P
<.001). The mean programmed optical zone and achieved postoperative horizontal diameter of the effective optical zone were statistically significantly larger in the OPA group (
P
<.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Postoperative visual acuity and refractive outcomes were similar between groups. Laser in situ keratomileusis using the OPA profile for the correction of myopia induced significantly less corneal and ocular spherical aberration, resulted in normal postoperative asphericity in 94% of eyes, and larger horizontal diameter of the effective optical zone compared to the conventional profile.
Closed Chamber Pupilloplasty With an Injectable Shape Memory Alloy Clip in Enucleated Porcine Eyes in the Laboratory Setting
Authors: Erlanger Michael S. , Olson Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2012

A novel surgical technique and novel surgical instrumentation for closing a pupil defect in a closed chamber eye is described. The technique was performed in a laboratory setting using ex-vivo porcine eyes using a 30-gauge deployment system to repair iris defects. Given the difficulty of suturing in a closed chamber eye, the use of an injectable, shape memory alloy clip offers the advantages of rapid, easy deployment and increased strength over conventional suture techniques.
Endothelial Keratoplasty With Pars Plana Air–Fluid Exchange in the Absence of an Intact Lens–Iris Diaphragm
Authors: Lam Sheridan
Published: July 2012

The author reports the use of pars plana air–fluid exchange in promoting adhesion of the donor endothelial graft to the host cornea during Descemet’s membrane stripping with endothelial keratoplasty in the absence of an intact lens–iris diaphragm. A three-port pars plana 25-gauge core vitrectomy is performed, followed by the insertion of the endothelial graft into the anterior chamber with a glide. After the limbal incision and the paracentesis site are sutured, the air–fluid exchange is done from the vitreous cavity toward the anterior chamber until the eye is completely filled with air. The air infusion pressure is maintained at 30 mm Hg for 10 minutes. The endothelial graft is centered with a roller. The pars plana cannulas are removed, and the scleral incisions seal spontaneously. This technique ensures that the anterior chamber is completely filled with air at the end of case and provides fine control of the intraocular pressure throughout the surgery.
Fatty acid composition of the meat from the Mos breed and commercial strain capons slaughtered at different ages
Authors: Díaz O. , Rodríguez L. , Torres A. , Cobos A.
Published: July 2012

The influence of the breed [Mos (Spanish indigenous breed), Sasso T-44 and X-44 (commercial strains)] and the age (5, 6, 7 and 8 months) of capons (castrated male cockerels) on the fatty acid compositions of breast and drumstick meat were studied. The meat of the Mos capons showed lower contents of monounsaturated fatty acids and higher concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids than those of the other breeds. In addition, the Mos breed showed higher contents of margaric acid (C17:0) and stearic acid (C18:0) as compared to the commercial strains; however, no significant effects of breed were observed in the total contents of saturated fatty acids in the meat. The meat of the youngest animals showed lower contents of monounsaturated fatty acids and higher concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids than that of the older ones. Nevertheless, the effect of age was less important than the effect of breed.
Studies on the hypolipidemic effects of Coconut oil when blended with Tiger nut oil and fed to albino rats
Authors: El-Anany A. M. , Ali R. F. M.
Published: July 2012

Hyperlipidemia is a predominant risk factor for atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The international guidelines issued by the World Health Organization recommend a reduction in dietary saturated fat and cholesterol intake as a means to prevent hypercholesterolemia and CVD. The main objective of the current investigation was to evaluate the effects of feeding blended oils consisting of coconut oil (CNO) with different proportions of Tiger nut oil (TNO) on serum lipid levels in Albino rats. GLC analysis was performed to illustrate the fatty acid composition of the blended oils. Blended oils were obtained by mixing tiger nut oil with coconut oil at the volume ratios of 100:0, 70:30, 50:50, 25:75, 10:90 and 0:100. Fifty-six male albino rats were randomly divided into 7 groups of 8 rats each according to the oil type. The blended oils were fed to rats for a period of up to 10 weeks. Total cholesterol (T-Ch), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-Ch), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-Ch), and triglycerides (TG), were determined. The atherogenic Index (AI) was calculated. The results showed that non-significant changes in all nutritional parameters were observed between the control group and the rats fed with the tested oils. The results also indicate that coconut oil had 86% saturated fatty acids. On TNO contains 66% oleic acid. Therefore, blending coconut oil with tiger nut oil can reduce the proportions of saturated to unsaturated fatty acids in CNO. The rats that were fed blended oils showed significantly reduced levels of serum cholesterol as compared to those fed CNO. The HDL levels were marginally enhanced in the rats that were fed blended oils. The total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels were controlled when TNO/CNO proportions varied between 25/75 and 70/30. This was reflected in the calculation of the atherogenic index. Similar changes were observed with serum triglyceride levels.
Microstructure of industrially produced reduced and low fat Turkish white cheese as influenced by the homogenization of cream
Authors: Karaman A. D. , Benli M. , Akalin A. S.
Published: July 2012

The microstructure and fat globule distribution of reduced and low fat Turkish white cheese were evaluated. Reduced and low fat cheeses were manufactured from 1.5% and 0.75% fat milk respectively which were standardized unhomogenized and homogenized cream in a dairy plant. Homogenized and non-homogenized creams and cheese whey were analyzed for fat globule distribution and cheese samples were also analyzed for microstructure characteristics. According to the results, the homogenization of cream decreased the size of fat globules; and showed that a large number of fat particles were dispersed in the in matrix and improved the lubrication of cheese microstructure. According to the micrographs for the fat, which was not removed, they exhibited a more extended matrix with a few small fat globules compared to the defatted micrographs. Homogenization of cream produces small fat globules and unclustured fat globules were found in the resulting whey. These results are important for dairy processors for using cream homogenization as a processing tool at the industrial level.
Chemical evaluation of citrus seeds, an agro-industrial waste, as a new potential source of vegetable oils
Authors: Matthaus B. , Özcan M. M.
Published: July 2012

The seed oils from seven Turkish and ten Vietnamese varieties of Citrus fruits were examined for their fatty acid composition, tocopherols and sterol contents. The oil contents of the samples varied between 32.1 g/100 g and 58.8 g/100 g. The major fatty acid of the extracted seed oils was oleic (12.8-70.1%), followed by linoleic (19.5-58.8%) and palmitic (5.1-28.3%). Stearic, vaccenic, linolenic and arachidic acids were found at low levels. The total content of vitamin E active compounds in the oils ranged between 0.8 and 21.0 mg/100 g. The predominant isomers were α- and γ-tocopherol, with approximate equal amounts between about 0.4 and 17.5 mg/100 g. The total sterol contents of the oils were found between 1310.54 and 3986.58 mg/kg, with β -sitosterol as the predominant sterol that accounted for more than 70% of the total amount of sterols. Other sterols, campesterol (8.03-15.26%), stigmasterol (2.55-7.69%), ∆5-avenasterol (1.80-5.67%), cholesterol (0.83-2.70%) and chlerosterol (0.93-1.78%) were detected in most of the oils. The results of the present study indicate that the seed oils of Citrus fruits are considered to be a potential oil source due to their fatty acid composition and important tocopherol and sterol, and might be used for edible applications as well as the production of potential value-added products.
Culex pipiens(Culicidae) is attracted to humans in southern Ontario, but will it serve as a bridge vector of West Nile virus?
Authors: Russell Curtis , Hunter Fiona F.
Published: July 2012

We tested whether the known bird-biting mosquito,Culex pipiensLinnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae), is attracted to human hosts by placing humans at ground level (∼1.5 m) or in the forest canopy (∼5 m) in a Niagara woodlot. Modified Centers for Disease Control (CDC) miniature light traps (no light, no CO2) were placed next to the human hosts to capture the attracted mosquitoes. The human-baited traps were compared with control traps (standard CDC miniature light traps with CO2, but no light). As expected from previous research, there were moreC. pipienscaptured at the higher elevation than at ground level. Generally, they were attracted to control traps more than to human-baited traps at 5 m, whereas at 1.5 m there was no difference between the two trap types. As a comparison, mostAedes vexans(Meigen) mosquitoes were captured at the 1.5 m elevation but there were significantly more captured in the control traps than the human-baited traps during all periods. BecauseC. pipiensis attracted to humans throughout the entire season at the 1.5 m height (where they might encounter humans), it is likely thatC. pipienscan serve as a bridge vector of West Nile virus (WNV).
Small Atrial Septal Defect Associated with Heart Failure in an Infant with a Marginal Left Ventricle
Authors: Kingma Sandra D.K. , Rammeloo Lukas A. , Sojak Vladimir , Hruda Jaroslav
Published: July 2012

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is usually asymptomatic in infancy, unless pulmonary hypertension or severe co-morbidity is present. We report a case of a 4-week-old infant with moderate- sized ASD, small patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and a borderline sized left ventricle that developed heart failure. Despite the relatively small diameter of the ASD, this defect influenced the mechanism of heart failure significantly. After surgical closure of both PDA and ASD, the signs of pulmonary hypertension resolved and the patient developed a normal sized left ventricle. This report illustrates that the presence of a small ASD in combination with a marginal left ventricle may result in inadequate left ventricular filling, pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
A Calculation Model for Serum Ionized Calcium Based on an Equilibrium Equation for Complexation
Authors: Takano Susumu , Kaji Hiroshi , Hayashi Fujio , Higashiguchi Kanae , Joukei Sachie , Kido Yoshiaki , Takahashi Juro , Osawa Kayo
Published: July 2012

Measurement of ionized calcium is more important than measurement of total calcium in serum samples. In the present study, equations were derived from complexation and acid dissociation equilibrium equations, and were used to determine the concentration of ionized calcium from the observed serum concentrations of total calcium, albumin, total protein, and inorganic phosphate. The ionized calcium concentration was calculated in 67 serum samples from healthy subjects and 34 outpatients previously identified as having abnormal serum calcium levels. The correlation coefficient between our method ( y) and the calcium-ion-selective electrode method ( x) was 0.953 and the linear regression equation was y = 0.97 x at pH 7.4 with a factor of α = 0.21, which was based on the differences between the concentrations of calcium phosphorus compounds obtained by the electrode method and by calculation. The developed calculation is as useful and accurate as the electrode method, and therefore extremely useful for clinical diagnoses.
Transfundal Uterine Incision Performed with Prophylactic Common Iliac Artery Balloon Occlusion for Patient with Placenta Previa Totalis
Authors: Nishida Yoshihiro , Hirakawa Tomoko , Utsunomiya Yufuko , Tsusue Hatsumi , Narahara Hisashi
Published: July 2012

A 37-year-old primigravida at 35 weeks of gestation presented with known anterior wall dominant placenta previa totalis and suspected placenta accreta was successfully treated with transfundal uterine (transverse) incision performed with prophylactic common iliac artery balloon occlusion. This new surgical approach could be an alternative procedure for avoiding excessive blood loss during caesarean delivery.
Phylogenomic and Domain Analysis of Iterative Polyketide Synthases in Aspergillus Species
Authors: Lin Shu-Hsi , Yoshimoto Miwa , Lyu Ping-Chiang , Tang Chuan-Yi , Arita Masanori
Published: July 2012

Aspergillus species are industrially and agriculturally important as fermentors and as producers of various secondary metabolites. Among them, fungal polyketides such as lovastatin and melanin are considered a gold mine for bioactive compounds. We used a phylogenomic approach to investigate the distribution of iterative polyketide synthases (PKS) in eight sequenced Aspergilli and classified over 250 fungal genes. Their genealogy by the conserved ketosynthase (KS) domain revealed three large groups of nonreducing PKS, one group inside bacterial PKS, and more than 9 small groups of reducing PKS. Polyphyly of nonribosomal peptide synthase (NRPS)-PKS genes raised questions regarding the recruitment of the elegant conjugation machinery. High rates of gene duplication and divergence were frequent. All data are accessible through our web database at http://metabolomics.jp/wiki/Category:PK .