bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward Cooperative Team-diagnosis in Multi-robot Systems
Authors: Kutzer Michael D.M. , Armand Mehran , Scheid David H. , Lin Ellie , Chirikjian Gregory S.
Published: August 2008

Research in man-made systems capable of self-diagnosis and self-repair is becoming increasingly relevant in a range of scenarios in which in situ repair/diagnosis by a human operator is infeasible within an appropriate time frame. In this paper, we present an approach to the multi-robot team diagnosis problem that utilizes gradient-based training of multivariate Gaussian distributions. We then evaluate this approach using a testbed involving modular mobile robots, each assembled from four electromechanically separable modules. The diagnosis algorithm is trained on data obtained from two sources: (1) a computer model of the system dynamics and (2) experimental runs of the physical prototypes. Tests were then performed in which a fault was introduced in one robot in the testbed and the diagnostic algorithm was queried. The results show that the state predicted by the diagnostic algorithm performed well in iden tifying the fault state in the case when the model was trained using the experimental data. Limited convergence was also demonstrated using training data from an imperfect dynamic model and low data sampling frequencies.
A Pilot Study of the Experience of Participating in a Therapeutic Touch Practice Group
Authors: Moore Theresa , Ting Brigid , Rossiter-Thornton Maria
Published: August 2008

This pilot study explored the experience of participating in a Therapeutic Touch™ practice group. A qualitative descriptive-exploratory method was used, involving 12 members of practice groups in Ontario and British Columbia, Canada. Analysis of the data using an extraction-synthesis process yielded four themes: (a) learning with others through sharing and hands-on experience is valued; (b) connecting with a network of supportive relationships that sustain self and Therapeutic Touch practice; (c) comfort–discomfort arising with self, others, or ideas; and (d) meaningful changes emerge while experiencing group energy and Therapeutic Touch. The findings expand current knowledge about the positive aspects of participating in practice groups and provide a beginning understanding of member discomfort, which had not been previously reported. This knowledge will be useful to Therapeutic Touch organizations, practice group leaders, and group members. It will also guide health care agencies and practitioners of other healing modalities who may be considering establishing practice groups.
Scholarship
Authors: Jacono Brenda , Jacono John
Published: August 2008

Purpose: This article examines scholarship as a holistic process of self-discovery. Methods: By using their own work as an exemplar, the authors illustrate how the scholarly projects they completed (whether consciously planned or not) helped them to evolve as individuals and scholars. They also demonstrate how those they chose by instinct might have helped them give more valuable service, than those they consciously planned. Findings: They conclude that the scholarly journey affirms the indivisible nature of the scholar/person, and suggest reasons this idea might prove particularly useful to nursing currently.
Arid and humid phases in southern Spain during the last 4000 years: the Zoñar Lake record, Córdoba
Authors: Martín-Puertas Celia , Valero-Garcés Blas L. , Pilar Mata M. , González-Sampériz Penélope , Bao Roberto , Moreno Ana , Stefanova Vania
Published: August 2008

A multiproxy study of sediment cores from Zoñar Lake (37°29′00″N, 4°41′22″W, 300 m a.s.l.) supported by 11 14C AMS dates provides the first high-resolution centennial-scale reconstruction of past humidity changes in southern Spain during the last 4000 years. Arid periods occurred prior to 2.9 cal. kyr BP and during 1.3—0.6 cal. kyr BP (`Mediaeval Climate Anomaly'). The most humid period occurred during 2.6—1.6 cal. kyr BP encompassing the late Iron Age—Iberian and Roman epochs. Two humid periods of lower intensity occurred between 0.8 and 0.6 cal. kyr BP (AD 1200—1400) and about 400 cal. yr BP (around AD 1600) coinciding with the onset of the `Little Ice Age'. Humid conditions are synchronous with a decline in solar output and seem to correspond to atmospheric patterns similar to negative NAO phases. Arid conditions show better correlation with northern Africa climate evolution, suggesting a possible link to subtropical dynamics. The geographic location of Zoñar Lake and the robust chronology provides an opportunity to improve our understanding of the climate evolution in mid latitudes during the late Holocene and to evaluate subtropical and high latitude factors in Mediterranean climate evolution.
Stable isotope variations in stalagmites from northwestern Sweden document changes in temperature and vegetation during the early Holocene: a comment on Sundqvist et al. 2007a
Authors: Hammarlund Dan , Edwards Thomas W.D.
Published: August 2008

We offer an alternative palaeoenvironmental interpretation of oxygen-isotope data obtained on two early-Holocene stalagmite records from caves in the Scandes Mountains of northern Sweden (Korallgrottan and Labrintgrottan), and the well-known Søylegrotta (Norway) SG93 record with which they are compared, that differs in several respects from that proposed by the authors. Contrary to viewing these as inverted palaeotemperature records, we suggest that they primarily reflect changes in the δ18O of local annual precipitation, modified by secondary temperature-dependent variation in water-calcite oxygen-isotope fractionation, at each of the three sites. This is supported by the striking similarity over the entire Holocene between the SG93 calcite δ18 O record and the lacustrine carbonate δ18O record from Lake Tibetanus (northern Sweden), which implies straightforward transfer of annual precipitation δ18O signals into cave drip waters. Recent studies of drip waters in Korallgrottan also support this model. This further enhances the value of cave deposits as palaeoclimate archives in this region and provides additional evidence of the sensitivity of the precipitation `isotope thermometer' to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns.
Systemic lupus erythematosus complicated by acquired von Willebrand’s syndrome
Authors: Hong SC , Lee JH , Chi HS , Lee CK , Nah SS , Kim YG , Oh JS , Moon HB , Yoo B
Published: August 2008

Haematological abnormalities are common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In some cases of acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AvWS), von Willebrand disease (vWD) is associated with autoimmune or lymphoproliferative disorders. In this study, we describe a 36-year-old woman with SLE and AvWS. The patient was referred to our hospital because of easy bruisability and recurrent vaginal bleeding. She had no history of bleeding tendency and no family history of bleeding diathesis, but she had a history of recurrent arthralgia, photosensitivity and sicca symptoms. Tests for antinuclear, anti–double stranded DNA, anticardiolipin and anti–β2-glycoprotein I antibodies were all positive. Analysis of haemostatic parameters showed complete absence of von Willebrand factor ristocetin cofactor (vWF:Rco), von Willebrand antigen (vWF:Ag) and ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation (RIPA). Electrophoretic analysis of plasma showed a complete absence of high–molecular weight vWF multimer. The presence of antibody to vWF was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Treatment with corticosteroids improved SLE symptoms and corrected bleeding diasthesis. Also, the multimeric patterns of vWF became normalised and anti–vWF antibody disappeared. These findings indicated that this patient had SLE associated with AvWS, which was ameliorated by corticosteroid treatment.
Soy isoflavones supplementation alleviates disease severity in autoimmune-prone MRL-lpr/lpr mice
Authors: Hong YH , Wang TC , Huang CJ , Cheng WY , Lin BF
Published: August 2008

Soy isoflavones supplements, which are phyto-oestrogens widely used as alternatives to alleviate menopausal syndromes or prevent chronic diseases, may exert oestrogenic and anti-oestrogenic activities. This study aimed to investigate the effects of soy isoflavones supplement on oestrogen-related autoimmune disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, using autoimmune-prone female MRL- lpr/lpr mice. Eighty mice of 8 weeks were divided into five groups: 0 (Control), 2 (Isf 2), 10 (Isf 10) and 20 (Isf 20) mg/kg BW/day Phyto SoyaTM isoflavones or 0.375 mg/kg BW/day tamoxifen (TAM) as the positive control, by tube-feeding. Some mice were killed at age 15 weeks for cellular cytokine secretion. The data suggested that the Isf 20 and TAM groups had higher weight gain and survival compared with the control group. At age 22 weeks, the Isf 20 group still had 75% survival comparable to mice treated with TAM. At age 14 weeks, the TAM group showed significantly lower serum anti-double-stranded (ds) DNA IgG and anti-cardiolipin IgG. The mice in the Isf 10 and Isf 20 groups also had lower anti-dsDNA IgG and anti-cardiolipin IgG. The interferon (IFN)-γ secretion from mitogen-stimulated T cells in the Isf 20 and TAM groups were significantly lower than those of control mice. Furthermore, the oestrogenic activity of the methanol extracts of soy isoflavones for oestrogen receptor (ER)β, but not ERα, significantly increased, suggesting that soy isoflavones have a selective modulation of ER activation. Thus, soy isoflavone supplementation did not aggravate murine lupus, but apparently ameliorated the disease.
Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome complicated by microangiopathic antiphospholipid-associated syndrome
Authors: Meglič A , Grosek Š , Benedik-Dolničar M , Avčin T
Published: August 2008

A 4-year-old boy with an atypical course of haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), who developed microangiopathic antiphospholipid-associated syndrome (MAPS) with signs of multiple organ failure during the course of his disease, is reported. Early and aggressive treatment with intravenous gammaglobulin, pulse methylprednisolone and plasmapheresis resulted in an excellent clinical recovery. Our patient showed a concomitant presence of multiple factors that could precipitate atypical HUS, including positive antiphospholipid antibodies, decreased level of factor H and positive anti-ADAMTS-13 antibodies. We suggest that, along with infections, autoimmune conditions or defined genetic abnormalities of complement regulatory genes, MAPS should be considered among the pathogenic mechanisms in patients with atypical HUS.
The ethics of Community Empowerment: tensions in health promotion theory and practice
Authors: Braunack-Mayer Annette , Louise Jennie
Published: August 2008

The concepts of community participation, empowerment and capacity building are central tenets of contemporary health promotion theory. They reflect the view that health and well-being are shaped by a wide range of social, economic, political and organisational forces that are outside the control of individuals.

Despite its theoretical appeal, the practice of Community Empowerment is ethically contentious and can produce ethical dilemmas for health promotion practitioners. In this paper we relate these dilemmas to theoretical considerations, and argue that the empowerment of communities should be understood as a means rather than an end . This leads us to argue for the adoption of what we call a Reflective Equilibrium Community Empowerment approach, which draws on both “top—down” and “bottom—up” methods to help resolve the ethical tensions in health promotion programmes. (Promot Educ 2008;15(3): 5-8)
AIDS education in an Islamic nation: content analysis of Farsi-language AIDS-education materials in Iran
Authors: Kalkhoran Sara , Hale Lauren
Published: August 2008

Inconsistent statistics about the number of HIV/AIDS cases in Iran and misinformation about HIV/AIDS among Iranian adolescents necessitate proper understanding and knowledge of HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. This is particularly important since many issues related to HIV/AIDS, such as sex, homosexuality, and drug use, are taboo topics in the Islamic world. We analyzed Farsi-language educational and informational small media items to ascertain the nature of HIV/AIDS-related material available in society. While all of the documents mentioned sexual contact as a means of transmitting the virus, and the majority (87%) mentioned condom use as a preventive means, mention of homosexuality (43%) and prostitution (17%) was lacking in most. Thus, mention of “safe sex” strategies was not avoided due to fear of promoting sex outside of marriage, as has been noted in other Islamic nations. Mention of intravenous drug use in 90% of the documents shows an acknowledgment of the drug problem in the nation, and an effort to curb its harmful sequelae. Therefore, while certain issues such as sex, condoms, and drug use were well represented in the documents analyzed, additional inclusion of topics such as homosexuality and prostitution, issues already discussed infrequently in society, can help to better educate the population and curb the spread of this life-threatening disease. (Promot Educ 2008;15(3): 21-25)
Aire fresco, un programa participativo y entre iguales para reducir el consumo de tabaco en el ámbito educativo
Authors: García-Vázquez Jose , García Ruiz Mercedes , Fernández Rodríguez Silvia , Garcimartin Carrera María , Rodríguez Vigil Laura , Mosquera Tenreiro Carmen
Published: August 2008

Fundamento: En 2000, se puso en marcha el programa Aire fresco en los centros de secundaria de Asturias (España) para reducir o eliminar el tabaco en el ámbito educativo. Este estudio recoge la evaluación del proceso de esta intervención, que concluyó en 2005, en 23 centros de secundaria.

Métodos: El programa duraba un curso escolar y ponía en marcha un proceso con seis acciones, con el objetivo final de implicar a alumnado, personal y madres/padres en el establecimiento y cumplimiento de nuevas normas. Estas seis acciones eran: información, propuestas del personal, propuestas del alumnado, establecimiento de nuevas normas, difusión y actividades de refuerzo. Entre otras actividades, se ofertaban un taller entre iguales para el alumnado y un taller para dejar de fumar para personal y madres/padres. El programa lo llevaron a cabo 23 centros que constituyeron, con su alumnado y profesorado, la población de estudio. Mediante cuestionarios, se recogieron datos de acciones realizadas, participación en las actividades y opinión de alumnado y profesorado. También se realizaron grupos focales para conocer las dificultades, logros y propuestas de mejora.

Resultados: El 100% de los centros realizó actividades informativas, el 83% recogió propuestas del personal para limitar su consumo, el 91% las del alumnado, y el 70% estableció nuevas normas. Las opiniones de alumnado y profesorado sobre el programa, materiales y metodología fueron positivas. El taller para dejar de fumar se realizó en 18 centros y participaron 176 personas. Entre las que lo concluyeron, el 20% permanecía sin fumar a los seis meses.

Conclusiones: Aire Fresco fue una intervención novedosa, satisfactoria y útil para regular el consumo de tabaco en los centros educativos. La filosofía del programa, que buscaba la participación de la comunidad educativa y lo convertía en un proyecto educativo de centro, fue una de las claves para lograr estos resultados. (Promot Educ 2008; 15(3): 52-57)
Medication Management in Primary and Secondary Schools: Evaluation of Mental Health Related In-Service Education in Local Schools
Authors: Reutzel Thomas J. , Desai Archana , Workman Gloria , Atkin John A. , Grady Sarah , Todd Timothy , Nguyen Nhu , Watkins Melissa , Tran Kim , Liu Nian , Rafinski Michelle , Dang Thanh
Published: August 2008

An increasing number of students are taking medications while they are in school or are under the influence of medication during school hours. In a novel effort, clinical pharmacists and mental health therapists worked together to provide “mini-in-service” educational programs on psychological disorders and medications used to treat these disorders. The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of these educational programs presented to school nurses, teachers, school administrators, and other personnel. The study compared participant responses before and after attending a medication in-service session on a psychological disorder and its related medications. Results indicated that in-service education on attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and depression improved the knowledge and confidence levels of school personnel regarding medications and symptoms. Feedback indicated school personnel wanted longer educational sessions and more information on these disorders and treatments. School nurses working with health professionals can improve education for staff, families, and students about mental health disorders and their treatment.
Priorities and uncertainties of administering chemotherapy in a pregnant woman with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer
Authors: Kanate Abraham S , Auber Miklos L , Higa Gerald M
Published: August 2008

Background. The absence of treatment standards for the use of chemotherapy in pregnancy is due, in part, to the fact that cancer in the gravid female is relatively uncommon.

Method. A case (of a pregnant woman with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer) is presented to explore this area of medical uncertainty.

Result. Managed by a multi-disciplinary team, successful prolongation of gestation was achieved with an oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy regimen.

Conclusion. A perspective of the ongoing conflict between prolonging the mother's life and preserving fetal development is highlighted. Although not life-saving, administration of chemotherapy in this woman was life-sparing. J Oncol Pharm Practice (2009) 15: 5—8.
Stress-related mucosal bleeding in critically ill oncology patients
Authors: Bruno Jeffrey J , Canada Todd W , Wakefield Chris D , Nates Joseph L
Published: August 2008

Objective. To determine the incidence of stress-related mucosal bleeding (SRMB) in a critically ill oncology population receiving stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) with either a histamine-2 receptor antagonist (H2RA) or proton pump inhibitor (PPI). Design. Single-center, prospective, observational study.

Setting. Fifty-two bed medical-surgical intensive care unit of an academic oncology institution. Patients. A convenience sample of 100 medical and surgical critically ill oncology patients who received intensive care for more than 24 hours and at least one dose of a H2RA or PPI for prevention of SRMB.

Interventions. None.

Measurements and Main Results. Patients were followed throughout their intensive care unit stay for the development of an overt and/or clinically significant gastrointestinal (GI) bleed. More patients received a PPI (n = 81) in contrast to a H2RA (n = 19) for SUP. Overall, 94 patients (94%) had at least one risk factor for a SRMB with four patients (4%) experiencing an event (overt bleed, n=3; clinically significant bleed, n =1). All cases of GI bleeding occurred in patients receiving a PPI. No ICU deaths were considered directly related to a GI bleed.

Conclusions. The incidence of SRMB among high-risk critically ill oncology patients receiving SUP appears low; further, large-scale trials are needed to confirm this finding. J Oncol Pharm Practice (2009) 15: 9—16.
The impact of computerized prescribing on error rate in a department of Oncology/Hematology
Authors: Small Matthew DC , Pharm B. , Barrett Ann , Price Gill M
Published: August 2008

Aims. A comparison of prescribing errors detected for computerized and spreadsheet prescriptions in the Department of Hematology and Oncology of the Norfolk and Norwich University hospital. Methods. A prospective audit of 1941 prescriptions for chemotherapy was made from January to September 2005. Each new cycle of chemotherapy ordered was monitored for prescribing errors, which were analyzed by method of prescription (computerized or spreadsheet), prescriber, type, and severity.

Results. Computerized prescribing reduced errors by 42% (RR 0.58; 95% CI 0.47—0.72). Errors occurred in 20% of spreadsheet prescriptions compared with 12% of the computerized prescriptions. There was a significant difference in error rates of three different prescribers whichever prescribing system was used. The proportion of errors that were minor was reduced and serious was increased with little change in the proportion of significant or life-threatening errors.

Conclusions. The impact of computerized prescribing on adverse drug events requires further evaluation. Prescriber training may be important in further reducing errors. The implementation of all the existing functions of the electronic system should lead to further reduction in errors.
Propofol extravasation in a breast cancer patient
Authors: Huijbers EJM , Baars JW , Schutte PFE , Schellens JHM , Beijnen JH
Published: August 2008

A breast cancer patient experienced an accidental propofol extravasation in the dorsum of her hand during a Port-A-Cath replacement. She had heavy pain which was treated with analgesics. The patient's hand was cooled and kept in an upright position. Three days later the patient received her last AC (adriamycin/ cyclophosphamide) course without complications. Propofol extravasation did not result in tissue necrosis in this case. AC chemotherapy could be administered safely 3 days after propofol extravasation.
Homogenization and Optimization of Sinusoidal Honeycomb Cores for Transverse Shear Stiffness
Authors: Pizhong Qiao  , Wei Fan  , Davalos Julio F. , Guiping Zou
Published: August 2008

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composite sandwich panels with a core of sinusoidal geometry have been recently used in highway bridge and aquaculture tank applications. The selection of geometric shape and size of sinusoidal cores to meet given design requirements is critical in efficient applications of sandwich structures, and their effective transverse shear stiffness properties are important material properties in analysis and design. Based on a combined homogenization and multi-objective optimization technique, the effective transverse shear stiffness properties of sinusoidal cores are studied and optimized. An analytical approach using two-scale homogenization technique is used to predict the effective transverse shear stiffness properties of thin-walled sinusoidal honeycomb cores. The optimization problem is then solved using a sequential quadratic programming algorithm. Two types of optimization problems are presented: the maximization of effective transverse shear stiffness of honeycomb core with a given composite solid volume fraction and the minimization of composite solid volume with prescribed effective transverse shear stiffness. The geometric effects and weighting factors on the optimal design of sinusoidal cores are discussed. An optimization procedure using a response surface method and finite element analysis is also conducted to verify the proposed approach. The present combined homogenization and multi-objective optimization approach can be used to obtain favorable material performance behaviors and meet desired design requirements for honeycomb core structures.
Knowledge, beliefs and attitudes about HIV/AIDS-related issues, and the sources of knowledge among health care professionals in southern Nigeria
Authors: Umeh Chiamaka N. , Essien E. James , Ezedinachi Emmanuel N. , Ross Michael W.
Published: August 2008

The HIV/AIDS pandemic has become one of the most important public health problems in recent times and it is having a profound impact on the lives of infected people and their families. There is an acknowledged burden of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. As the prevalence of HIV/AIDS infection rises, health care professionals worldwide can expect greater clinical exposure to infected patients. The care of people living with AIDS presents a significant challenge to the health care sector. This study seeks to explore the relationship between sources of HIV/AIDS information and knowledge, and the relationship between knowledge of HIV/AIDS and care for people with AIDS among health care providers in three different levels of health care institutions in the southern region of Nigeria.

Health care workers from two states in southern Nigeria completed a questionnaire that was designed to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices about HIV/AIDS. The sample was composed of 277 (65%) females and 135 (31.7%) males.

The results showed a fair level of knowledge among all health care professionals, with the highest level of knowledge among the doctors and the lowest among laboratory workers. There was a significant gender difference in the level of knowledge but the data suggested that knowledge did not differ by hospital settings. There were generally negative feelings and views about the care of HIV/AIDS patients among the professionals, these views being worst at the community health centers and best at the government hospital. The greatest source of information for the majority of professionals was health talks/seminars, and those respondents who got their information from school scored the highest on the items on general knowledge of HIV/AIDS incidence, cause, transmission, and clinical treatment. This has important implications for future interventions designed for health care professionals including doctors, nurses and laboratory workers.
Determinants of family size in a Gulf Arab state: a comparison between two areas
Authors: Hamadeh Randah R. , Al-Roomi Khaldoon , Masuadi Emad
Published: August 2008

Aims: The rapid economic transition in the Gulf Arab countries has resulted in marked changes in fertility and marriage patterns and a decrease in the number of children per family. Yet little is known about the determinants of family size in urban and less urban areas.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 450 Kuwaiti women aged 20—60 years who attended health care centres in Al Asima and Al Jahra governorates. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered through face-to-face interview which included variables on socio-demographic characteristics, family size, actual and ideal spacing, marriage related variables, health conditions and utilization of health services. Both univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the factors that affect family size.

Results: The socio-economic indicators were significantly better in Al Asima, the capital, than in Al Jahra, a less urbanized area. On average, family size for the total sample was 5.97 + 0.114 with a larger size (6.27 + 0.242) in Al Jahra than in Al Asima (5.80 + 0.118) but without a significant difference. Al Jahra women reported a larger number of deliveries and past pregnancies but a lower usage of contraceptive measures. The total fertility rate was 3.65 in Al Asima, 3.84 in Al Jahra and 3.71 births per woman in the total population. Family size was inversely related to the educational level of women and their husbands. Currently employed women had a smaller family size (5.22 + 0.119) than the unemployed (6.81 + 0.187);

p < 0.0005. Health problems in the interviewee or her husband played a minor role in the decision to have more children. Families where the husband was the decision-maker on the number of children had a significantly larger family size (6.91 + 0.451) than families where the couple both participated in the decision (5.83 + 0.129; p = 0.032). The duration of marriage, ideal number of children, age of women at last delivery, number of rooms and the crowding index had significant positive effects on family size, whereas age at first delivery, duration between two consecutive pregnancies and history of past abortions were inversely related to family size in the stepwise multiple regression analysis.

Conclusions: Although women in the less urbanized areas in the Gulf Arab populations are more disadvantaged with respect to socio-economic characteristics than women in the more urbanized areas, there were no significant differences in family size in these contrasting communities. The impact of socio-demographic characteristics on family size was minor compared to factors related to fertility and the husband's desire to have more children. Fertility and family planning policies should consider these issues in order to promote more effective programmes.
A call for mental health needs assessments in HIV positive children in Africa
Authors: Idoniboye Geraldine
Published: August 2008

There is a worldwide pandemic of HIV infection. The WHO has compiled estimates of cases of HIV/AIDS for each country. In sub-Saharan Africa, HIV infection is causing decreased life expectancy. There is an overall increase in the number of orphans as a result of AIDS. Poverty, the lack of technologies and adequate resources are widening the gap between Africa and industrialized countries. In the instance of HIV positive children in Africa, we should aim to look into ways to identify and treat those with mental health issues or at risk for future mental health problems. This will help those affected to cope with the chronic illness associated with HIV infection, and to better comply with treatment that may lead to improved outcomes in terms of their quality of life.
A Review of Men's Health and Masculinity
Authors: Garfield Craig F. , Isacco Anthony , Rogers Timothy E.
Published: August 2008

Men's health is a new and evolving area of specialty that goes beyond men's cancers and sexual activities. Men's health in the 21st century incorporates a broader conceptualization of health, health behaviors, and lifestyle choices. This new focus results from the fact that men continue to lag behind women in life expectancy and in health care use, a situation that is worse for minority men. Understanding how gender socialization and masculine ideology affects men's health is an important step toward providing effective care for men. In this article, the authors review these areas and then discuss each of the top actual causes of death for men: tobacco use, poor diet, alcohol use, and physical inactivity. They then discuss the important issue of steroid use among men. Throughout the review, the authors highlight racial and ethnic differences in health behaviors. Furthermore, they provide empirically supported clinical implications to assist clinicians who see men with health concerns in their practices. Finally, they offer suggestions for creating ways to include men in the health care system in hopes of improving their use.
Swedish experiences of a negotiated approach to carer assessment: the Carers Outcome Agreement Tool
Authors: Hanson Elizabeth , Magnusson Lennart , Nolan Janet
Published: August 2008

Abstract

Given that the majority of frail older people living at home are cared for by family members, ensuring appropriate and sensitive support services for family carers is a major policy priority globally. Such assessment of the needs and situation of individual carers is a crucial first step towards ensuring that they receive flexible, quality support services. However, existing assessment practice is still inadequate in many countries. This paper describes a negotiated approach to carer assessment, the Carers Outcome Agreement Tool (COAT) and briefly considers its development with carers and practitioners in an Anglo-Swedish development project (2003–2005) and subsequent implementation within five municipalities in Sweden (2006–2008). A participatory research design was adopted in both projects building on the ÄldreVäst Sjuhärad model, which is a user-focused approach to research and development. This paper provides a short summary of the COAT development before presenting the qualitative findings from the Swedish implementation project (2006–2008), which emerged from focus group interviews with COAT practitioners and telephone follow-up interviews with carers who had a first and second COAT assessment. The findings clearly highlight the value of COAT in enabling partnerships to be developed between carers and practitioners, which recognise the expertise of both parties. They also challenge providers to invest sufficient time and ‘ear-marked’ resources for family care support so that COAT becomes an integral part of a comprehensive long-term carer strategy, which feeds directly into local developments in service delivery and organisation.
The role of education and training in achieving change in care homes: a literature review
Authors: Nolan Mike , Davies Sue , Brown Jayne , Wilkinson Anna , Warnes Tony , McKee Kevin , Flannery Jo , Stasi Karen
Published: August 2008

Abstract

Care homes play a vital role in the provision of support for the frailest members of our society, and given the demographic trends their role will continue for the foreseeable future. However, there remain enduring concerns about the quality of care such homes provide. Training and education for staff are often seen as the key to raising standards and as such are widely promoted. This paper presents a conceptual review and synthesis of the literature on the role of education and training in initiating and supporting change in care homes. A systematic method to the identification of sources was adopted, and a rigorous three-stage approach to analysis applied. The review identifies the barriers and facilitators to change and concludes that education is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for success. Rather it is argued that the role and status of care homes needs to be raised, and that a relationship-centred approach to care adopted, which acknowledges the importance of attending to the needs of all those who live in, work in, or visit care homes.
Comparative mapping of quantitative trait loci associated with waterlogging tolerance in barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Authors: Li Haobing , Vaillancourt René , Mendham Neville , Zhou Meixue
Published: August 2008

Background

Resistance to soil waterlogging stress is an important plant breeding objective in high rainfall or poorly drained areas across many countries in the world. The present study was conducted to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with waterlogging tolerance (e.g. leaf chlorosis, plant survival and biomass reduction) in barley and compare the QTLs identified across two seasons and in two different populations using a composite map constructed with SSRs, RFLP and Diversity Array Technology (DArT) markers.

Results

Twenty QTLs for waterlogging tolerance related traits were found in the two barley double haploid (DH) populations. Several of these QTLs were validated through replication of experiments across seasons or by co-location across populations. Some of these QTLs affected multiple waterlogging tolerance related traits, for example, QTL Qwt4-1 contributed not only to reducing barley leaf chlorosis, but also increasing plant biomass under waterlogging stress, whereas other QTLs controlled both leaf chlorosis and plant survival.

Conclusion

Improving waterlogging tolerance in barley is still at an early stage compared with other traits. QTLs identified in this study have made it possible to use marker assisted selection (MAS) in combination with traditional field selection to significantly enhance barley breeding for waterlogging tolerance. There may be some degree of homoeologous relationship between QTLs controlling barley waterlogging tolerance and that in other crops as discussed in this study.
Prevalence of prehypertension and its relationship to risk factors for cardiovascular disease in Jamaica: Analysis from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Ferguson Trevor S , Younger Novie OM , Tulloch-Reid Marshall K , Wright Marilyn B Lawrence , Ward Elizabeth M , Ashley Deanna E , Wilks Rainford J
Published: August 2008

Background

Recent studies have documented an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in persons with systolic blood pressures of 120–139 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressures of 80–89 mmHg, classified as prehypertension in the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure. In this paper we estimate the prevalence of prehypertension in Jamaica and evaluate the relationship between prehypertension and other risk factors for CVD.

Methods

The study used data from participants in the Jamaica Lifestyle Survey conducted from 2000–2001. A sample of 2012 persons, 15–74 years old, completed an interviewer administered questionnaire and had anthropometric and blood pressure measurements performed by trained observers using standardized procedures. Fasting glucose and total cholesterol were measured using a capillary blood sample. Analysis yielded crude, and sex-specific prevalence estimates for prehypertension and other CVD risk factors. Odds ratios for associations of prehypertension with CVD risk factors were obtained using logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of prehypertension among Jamaicans was 30% (95% confidence interval [CI] 27%–33%). Prehypertension was more common in males, 35% (CI 31%–39%), than females, 25% (CI 22%–28%). Almost 46% of participants were overweight; 19.7% were obese; 14.6% had hypercholesterolemia; 7.2% had diabetes mellitus and 17.8% smoked cigarettes. With the exception of cigarette smoking and low physical activity, all the CVD risk factors had significantly higher prevalence in the prehypertensive and hypertensive groups (p for trend < 0.001) compared to the normotensive group. Odds of obesity, overweight, high cholesterol and increased waist circumference were significantly higher among younger prehypertensive participants (15–44 years-old) when compared to normotensive young participants, but not among those 45–74 years-old. Among men, being prehypertensive increased the odds of having >/=3 CVD risk factors versus no risk factors almost three-fold (odds ratio [OR] 2.8 [CI 1.1–7.2]) while among women the odds of >/=3 CVD risk factors was increased two-fold (OR 2.0 [CI 1.3–3.8])

Conclusion

Prehypertension occurs in 30% of Jamaicans and is associated with increased prevalence of other CVD risk factors. Health-care providers should recognize the increased CVD risk of prehypertension and should seek to identify and treat modifiable risk factors in these persons.
Elective caesarean section versus vaginal delivery for preventing mother to child transmission of hepatitis B virus – a systematic review
Authors: Yang Jin , Zeng Xue-mei , Men Ya-lin , Zhao Lian-san
Published: August 2008

Background

Caesarean section before labor or before ruptured membranes ("elective caesarean section", or ECS) has been introduced as an intervention for preventing mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV). Currently, no evidence that ECS versus vaginal delivery reduces the rate of MTCT of HBV has been generally provided. The aim of this review is to assess, from randomized control trails (RCTs), the efficacy and safety of ECS versus vaginal delivery in preventing mother-to-child HBV transmission.

Results

We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (January, 2008), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (the Cochrane Library 2008, issue 1), PubMed (1950 to 2008), EMBASE (1974 to 2008), Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM) (1975 to 2008), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) (1979 to 2008), VIP database (1989 to 2008), as well as reference lists of relevant studies. Finally, four randomized trails involving 789 people were included. Based on meta-analysis, There was strong evidence that ECS versus vaginal delivery could effectively reduce the rate of MTCT of HBV (ECS: 10.5%; vaginal delivery: 28.0%). The difference between the two groups (ECS versus vaginal delivery) had statistical significance (RR 0.41, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.60, P < 0.000001). No data regarding maternal morbidity or infant morbidity according to mode of delivery were available.

Conclusion

ECS appears to be effective in preventing MTCT of HBV and no postpartum morbidity (PPM) was reported. However, the conclusions of this review must be considered with great caution due to high risk of bias in each included study (graded C).
Amplitude effect of the free surface in elastic reverse-time extrapolation
Authors: Sun Robert , McMechan George A.
Published: August 2008

We evaluate the physical validity of surface boundary conditions of the computational model in reverse-time extrapolation of 3D, three-component (3-C) elastic seismic data acquired at the earth’s free surface by using mathematical derivations and numerical simulations. Reverse-time extrapolation of elastic data assumes that only the incident P- or S-waves are reconstructed during extrapolation into the computational grid. However, superposition of the (upgoing) incident waves and the (downgoing) reflected and converted waves generated at the free surface also is recorded in data acquisition and is input into reverse-time extrapolation. In elastic reverse-time extrapolation, the computational model needs to have an absorbing top boundary. When the 3D, 3-C elastic data are inserted into the computational model during reverse-time extrapolation, the originally incident P- or S-wave is reconstructed. In addition, the free-surface P-to-P reflected and P-to-S converted waves recombine to reconstruct a second incident P-wave, and the free-surface S-to-S reflected and S-to-P converted waves recombine to reconstruct a second incident S-wave. Therefore, 3D elastic reverse-time extrapolation reconstructs the incident waves with displacement amplitudes increased by a fixed factor of exactly two when free-surface reflections and conversions are in the data. In this implementation, reconstructed (virtual) waves propagating upward from the free surface enter an absorbing zone and disappear.
Effect of Moisture Uptake on the Repeatability of near Infrared Spectroscopy Analyses of Ewe Milk Using the Dry Extract System for Infrared (DESIR) Method
Authors: Núñez-Sánchez Nieves , Serradilla Juan Manuel , Ares José Luis , Garrido-Varo Ana
Published: August 2008

This paper reports a study carried out to determine the effect of post-filter-drying moisture uptake on the repeatability of NIR spectroscopy analyses of ewe milk using the dry-extract system for infrared (DESIR). The study assessed the spectral repeatability of the method and the effect of moisture uptake on that repeatability, using graphical representations and root mean squared (RMS) error between spectra, as well as multivariate Mahalanobis distances (GH values) and predicted constituent values (protein, fat and dry matter). The spectral repeatability of this method of dried milk analysis using glass-fibre filters was very high, both spectrally per se [RMS MEAN = 3.914 μlog (1/R) and STD = 4.126 μlog (1/R)] and in terms of NIR spectroscopy prediction of chemical components and of the Mahalanobis distance. Using a single filter per milk sample is thus considered sufficient to guarantee the required accuracy and precision of the DESIR method. Differences between spectra due to the presence or absence of air exposure [STD = 6446 μlog (1/R)] were greater than the method repeatability error. Predictions of protein, fat and dry matter were significantly higher for air-exposed filters, due to moisture uptake; the increase in GH values for air-exposed filters was highly significant, suggesting that milk samples to be analysed using the DESIR method should be stored in a desiccator after drying and before NIR analysis and not left exposed to air.
System Design for Non-Destructive near Infrared Analyses of Chemical Components and Total Aerobic Bacteria Count of Raw Milk
Authors: Saranwong Sirinnapa , Kawano Sumio
Published: August 2008

In order to develop a system for quality and safety evaluation of non-homogenised raw milk using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy, two stages of research have been conducted. The first stage was the development of a compact NIR system for measuring the major constituents such as fat and protein in an aseptic environment. The second stage was the measurement of the total aerobic bacteria count (TBC). In the first stage, two compact sample holders for commercially-available capped test tube were designed. One system was equipped with an NIRSystem6500 research-type NIR spectrophotometer, hereafter referred to as MilkSpec-2. The other was equipped with a hand-held NIR spectrophotometer, the FT20, hereafter referred to as MilkSpec-3. For MilkSpec-2, the highly satisfactory results were obtained with the multiple determination coefficients of determination ( R2) = 0.99 and 0.96, and standard errors of prediction (SEP) = 0.03% and 0.07% for fat and protein, respectively. The results for MilkSpec-3 were also satisfactory but inferior compared with MilkSpec-2; the results were R2 = 0.99 and 0.91 and SEP=0.06% and 0.08% for fat and protein, respectively. In the following stage, MilkSpec-2 was used for the measurement of TBC in terms of log colony forming units (CFU) mL−1. In the case of TBC measurements, where the concentration of bacteria itself or its by-products were very low, three kinds of commercial test tube made of the same kind of glass but differing in diameter were used to identify the appropriate physical pathlength. It was found that the medium sized test tube with an external diameter of 20 mm provided the best calibration results with R2 = 0.83, SEP = 0.55 log (CFU) mL−1 and the ratio of standard deviation of reference data in the validation set to SEP (RPD) = 2.33. The analysis of the calibration structure indicated that the information related to absorptions by bacteria metabolites such as lactic acid, urea and those of the carbon sources such as lactose and protein in milk might play substantial roles in the NIR-TBC determination.
A fungal gall ofCatenella nipae(Caulacanthaceae, Rhodophyta) and a review ofCatenellocolax leeuwenii
Authors: Zuccarello Giuseppe C.
Published: August 2008

Growths were found on the surface ofCatenella nipaeat Patonga, New South Wales, Australia. Morphologically similar growths onC. impudicafrom Indonesia have been reported as the red algal parasiteCatenellocolax leeuwenii. The internal anatomy of the Australian growths showed that they all contained septate fungal hyphae. The hyphae formed spherical clusters that, in larger galls, produced inwardly directed hyphae terminating in spores. It is proposed in this paper that these galls are caused by fungal infection, as is the case in other algae. The lack of sexual structures precludes identification of this fungus to any definite species, although it is probably an ascomycete. Inspection of the type material ofC.leeuweniidid not reveal any parasites. The limited description of the parasite ofC. impudica, the proposed growths induced by fungi inC. nipae, and the lack of holotype specimens, warrants treating the generic nameCatenellocolaxwith caution until more collections from the type locality can be made.
Determination of ethylenic residues in wood and TMP of spruce by FT-Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Agarwal Umesh P. , Ralph Sally A.
Published: August 2008

A method based on FT-Raman spectroscopy is proposed for determining in situ concentrations of ethylenic residues in softwood lignin. Raman contributions at 1133 and 1654 cm-1, representing coniferaldehyde and coniferyl alcohol structures, respectively, were used in quantifying these units in spruce wood with subsequent conversion to concentrations in lignin. For coniferaldehyde units, the intensity of the 1133 cm-1 peak was measured in the difference spectrum obtained by subtracting the bleached-wood spectrum from that of the unbleached. In the case of coniferyl alcohol residues, the intensity of the 1654 cm-1 band was calculated from the spectrum of extensively bleached wood. The concentrations of coniferaldehyde and coniferyl alcohol units in spruce lignin were found to be 3.8% and 3.4%, respectively, and were in good agreement with values determined by conventional techniques. This quantification of the ethylenic residues was based on the Raman intensities of 1% coniferaldehyde and 1% coniferyl alcohol in bleached softwood kraft pulp. Initially, as background for this work, a number of suitable lignin model compounds and a softwood lignin model polymer (G-DHP) were used to calibrate the Raman method and demonstrate that the Raman technique was well suited for quantification of ethylenic structures. Experimental results demonstrated that thermomechanical pulping reduced the concentrations of coniferaldehyde and coniferyl alcohol residues in comparison to wood by 28% and 24%, respectively.