bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use and Performance of Premounted Stents Compared to Nonpremounted Stents in Pediatric and Adult Congenital Cardiac Catheterization
Authors: MEADOWS JEFFERY , TEITEL DAVID , MOORE PHILLIP
Published: September 2012

Objectives

We sought to characterize the use, efficacy, and performance characteristics of premounted stents relative to nonpremounted stents when used during congenital cardiac catheterization.

Background

Endovascular stent implantation is an effective means of relieving vascular obstruction in patients with congenital heart disease. However, stent implantation is technically challenging and important complications occur. Premounted stents appear to offer many advantages relative to their nonpremounted counterparts, and it has been suggested that the use of premounted stents is associated with fewer complications. However, translation of these potential benefits into procedural or clinical success has been poorly examined and the data are conflicting.

Methods

All stent placements performed between January 1, 1999 and December 31, 2009 were reviewed. Analysis of technical success, hemodynamic success and complications was performed.

Results

416 stents were placed over the 10 year period. 158 (38%) were premounted. There was no apparent trend in the frequency of use of premounted stents over the study period. Implanted premounted stents were smaller in diameter than nonpremounted stents 4.9 mm +/− 1.8 versus 13.9 mm +/− 3.7, and the site of stent placement differed significantly. Unadjusted and adjusted analysis of technical success with respect to the precision of stent placement, hemodynamic success, and complications showed no difference between premounted and non‐premounted stents.

Conclusions

We found no difference between premounted and nonpremounted stents with respect to procedural and hemodynamic success or complications. Nevertheless, there remain practical advantages to the use of premounted stents that may justify their expanding role in congenital cardiac catheterization. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:58–61)
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Magnetic Properties of Bismuth Ferrites Nanocrystals with Various Morphology
Authors: Wu Lei , Dong Chunhui , Chen Hang , Yao Jinli , Jiang Changjun , Xue Desheng
Published: September 2012

The effects of processing parameters on phase formation of hydrothermally synthesized bismuth ferrites were investigated. Bi25FeO40, BiFeO3, and Bi2Fe4O9 with different morphologies and grain size were synthesized by dissolving bismuth nitrate and iron nitrate in KOH solution at reaction time ranging from 3 to 20 h. The subcrystallized part of BiFeO3 obtained with reaction time of 4 and 5 h displayed strong saturation magnetization of ~2.914 emu/g. The results of the electron spin resonance (ESR) indicated each unpaired spin providing a net magnetic moment which eventually led to the enhancement of the saturated magnetization. Furthermore, Zero‐field‐cooled (ZFC) and field‐cooled (FC) magnetization curves exhibited spin‐glass freezing behavior in all the samples. And the low‐temperature magnetic hysteresis loop displayed the ferromagnetism of BiFeO3 with different structures and the phenomenon of exchange bias, respectively.
Occupational dermatitis in hairdressers: do they claim workers' compensation?
Authors: Lyons Georgina , Keegel Tessa , Palmer Amanda , Nixon Rosemary
Published: September 2012

Background. Hairdressers are one of the largest occupational groups attending our Occupational Dermatology Clinic. However, few seek workers' compensation for their occupational dermatitis.

Objectives. To retrospectively analyse and compare workers' compensation claims data and diagnosed disease data for occupational contact dermatitis in hairdressers from 1993 to 2009, for the state of Victoria, Australia.

Patients/materials/methods. Data from the Occupational Dermatology Clinic database, the Compensation Research Database and the Australian Bureau of Statistics were used in this study.

Results. The clinic database identified 157 hairdressers and apprentices with a confirmed diagnosis of occupational contact dermatitis assessed between 1993 and 2009. Forty‐six unique claims for occupational contact dermatitis from 46 individuals were identified from the Compensation Research Database over the same time period. Hairdressers in the 15–24‐year age group were significantly over‐represented in the claims data relative to the diagnosed disease data (p < 0.01). The median cost per claim was AU$1421, and the median time off work per claim was 20 days.

Conclusion. Increased efforts are needed to reduce the incidence of occupational contact dermatitis in hairdressers in Australia, and to ensure that hairdressers with occupational contact dermatitis are aware of their compensation entitlements. Reliance on workers' compensation data for disease surveillance may lead occupational health and safety regulators to underestimate the magnitude of the problem of occupational contact dermatitis in the hairdressing profession.
Ecosystem engineering, environmental decay and environmental states of landscapes
Authors: Raynaud Xavier , Jones Clive G. , Barot Sébastien
Published: September 2012

Although environmental modification by ecosystem engineers influences species distributions and abundances and ecological process rates, general determinants of the environmental states of engineered landscapes are not well understood. Here we develop a general, spatially implicit model of engineered landscapes that includes parameters driving engineer populations (demographics, environmental modification) and environmental decay. We show that average environmental states and heterogeneities of landscapes are the result of a balance between parameters determining engineering rates and decay rates that can be expressed as a net engineering ratio (NER). This ratio highlights the need to include environmental decay in ecosystem engineering studies. Moreover, it defines a significant engineer as one that can alter the environment despite decay and generates expectations for different kinds of effects on the engineer, other species and ecological processes depending on ratio values. Finally, it suggests that, in general, decay places limits as to what can be inferred about engineer population dynamics from environmental dynamics and vice versa.
Temporal variability of ecological niches: a study on intertidal macrobenthic fauna
Authors: Kraan Casper , Aarts Geert , Piersma Theunis , Dormann Carsten F.
Published: September 2012

The determination of temporal niche dynamics under field conditions is an important component of a species’ ecology. Recent developments in niche mapping, and the possibility to account for spatial autocorrelation in species distributions, hold promise for the statistical approach explored here. Using species counts from a landscape‐scale benthic monitoring programme in the western Dutch Wadden Sea during 1997–2005 in combination with sediment characteristics and tidal height as explanatory variables, we statistically derive realised niches for two bivalves, two crustaceans and three polychaetes, encompassing predators, suspension and bottom feeding functional groups. Unsurprisingly, realized niches varied considerably between species. Intraspecific temporal variation was assessed as overlap between the year‐specific niche and the overall mean niche, and this analysis revealed considerable variation between years. The main functional groups represented by these species showed idiosyncratic and wide variability through the study period. There were no strong associations between niche characteristics and mean abundance or body size. Our assessment of intraspecific niche variability has ramifications for species distribution models in general and offers advances from previous methods. 1) By assessing species’ realized niches in the multivariate environmental space, analyses are independent from the relative availability of particular environments. Predicted realized niches present differences between years, rather than annual differences in environmental conditions. 2) Using spatially explicit models to predict species habitat preferences provide more precise and unbiased estimates of species–environment relationships. 3) Current niche models assume constant niches, whereas we illustrate how much these can vary over only a few generations. This emphasizes the potentially limited scope of global change studies with forecasts based on single‐time species distribution snapshots.
Dispersal stochasticity mediates species richness in source–sink metacommunities
Authors: Matias Miguel G. , Mouquet Nicolas , Chase Jonathan M.
Published: September 2012

Although it is well‐known that dispersal of organisms within a metacommunity will influence patterns of coexistence and richness, theoretical and experimental studies generally assume that dispersal rates are constant through time. However, dispersal is often a highly variable process that can vary seasonally and/or when stochastic events (e.g. wind storms, droughts, floods) occur. Using a well‐known source–sink metacommunity model, we present novel predictions for local and regional species richness when stochasticity in dispersal is expressly considered. We demonstrate that dispersal stochasticity alters some of the predictions obtained with constant dispersal; the peak of the predicted hump‐shaped relationship between dispersal and local species richness is diminished and shifted towards higher values of dispersal. Dispersal stochasticity increases extinction probabilities of inferior competitor species particularly in metacommunities subjected to severe isolation events (i.e. decreases of dispersal) or homogenization events (i.e. sudden increases of dispersal). Our results emphasize how incorporating dispersal stochasticity into theoretical predictions will broaden our understanding of metacommunities dynamics and their responses to natural and human‐related disturbances.
Predator size interacts with habitat structure to determine the allometric scaling of the functional response
Authors: Toscano Benjamin J. , Griffen Blaine D.
Published: September 2012

While both predator body size and prey refuge provided by habitat structure have been established as major factors influencing the functional response (per capita consumption rate as a function of prey density), potential interactions between these factors have rarely been explored. Using a crab predator (Panopeus herbstii) – mussel prey (Brachidontes exustus) system, we examined the allometric scaling of the functional response in oyster (Crassostrea virginica) reef habitat, where crevices within oyster clusters provide mussels refuge from predation. A field survey of mussel distribution showed that mussels attach closer to the cluster periphery at high mussel density, indicating the potential for saturation of the refuge. In functional response experiments, the consumption rate of large crabs was depressed at low prey density relative to small crabs, while at high prey density the reverse was true. Specifically, the attack rate coefficient and handling time both decreased non‐linearly with crab size. An additional manipulation revealed that at low prey densities, the ability of large crabs to maneuver their claws and bodies to extract mussels from crevices was inhibited relative to small crabs by the structured habitat, reducing their attack rate. At high prey densities, crevices were saturated, forcing mussels to the edge of clusters where crabs were only limited by handling time. Our study illuminates a potentially general mechanism where the quality of the prey refuge provided by habitat structure is dependent on the relative size of the predator. Thus anthropogenic influences that alter the natural crab size distribution or degrade reef habitat structure could threaten the long‐term stability of the crab –mussel interaction in reefs.
Herbivore–vegetation feedbacks can expand the range of savanna persistence: insights from a simple theoretical model
Authors: Holdo Ricardo M. , Holt Robert D. , Fryxell John M.
Published: September 2012

Theoretical models of tree–grass coexistence in savannas have focused primarily on the role of resource availability and fire. It is clear that herbivores heavily impact vegetation structure in many savannas, but their role in driving tree–grass coexistence and the stability of the savanna state has received less attention. Theoretical models of tree–grass dynamics tend to treat herbivory as a constant rather than a dynamic variable, yet herbivores respond dynamically to changes in vegetation structure in addition to modifying it. In particular, many savannas host two distinct herbivore guilds, grazers and browsers, both of which have the potential to exert profound effects on tree/grass balance. For example, grazers may indirectly favor tree recruitment by suppressing the destructive effects of fire, and browsers may facilitate the expansion of grassland by reducing the competitive dominance of trees. We use a simple theoretical model to explore the role of grazer and browser dynamics on savanna vegetation structure and stability across fire and resource availability gradients. Our model suggests that herbivores may expand the range of conditions under which trees and grasses are able to stably coexist, as well as having positive reciprocal effects on their own niche spaces. In addition, we suggest that given reasonable assumptions, indirect mutualisms can arise in savannas between functional groups of herbivores because of the interplay of consumption and ecosystem feedbacks.
Analysis of viable vs. dead Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis using selective quantitative real‐time PCR with propidium monoazide
Authors: Sánchez M. C. , Marín M. J. , Figuero E. , Llama‐Palacios A. , Herrera D. , Sanz M.
Published: September 2012

Background and Objectives

One of the major disadvantages of DNA‐based microbial diagnostics is their inability to differentiate DNA between viable and dead microorganisms, which could be important when studying etiologically relevant pathogens. The aim of this investigation was to optimize a method for the selective detection and quantification of only viable Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis cells by combining quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and propidium monoazide (PMA).

Material and Methods

Three different concentrations of PMA (10, 50 or 100 μm) were added to suspensions of 106 (CFU)/mL of viable/dead A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis cells. After DNA isolation, qPCR was carried out using specific primers and probes for the tested bacteria. PMA was further tested with different mixtures containing varying ratios of viable and dead cells. The efficacy of PMA to detect viable/dead cells was tested by analysis of variance.

Results

For these specific bacterial pathogens, 100 μm PMA resulted in a significant reduction of qPCR amplification with dead cells (106 CFU/mL), while with viable cells no significant inhibition was detected. PMA was also effective in detecting selectively viable cells by qPCR detection, when mixtures of varying ratios of viable and dead bacteria were used.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the efficiency of PMA for differentiating viable and dead A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis cells. This method of PMA‐qPCR may be useful for monitoring new antimicrobial strategies and for assessing the pathogenic potential of A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis in different oral conditions when using molecular diagnostic methods.
Non‐invasive identification of melanoma with near‐infrared and skin impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Bodén Ida , Nyström Josefina , Lundskog Bertil , Zazo Virginia , Geladi Paul , Lindholm‐Sethson Britta , Naredi Peter
Published: September 2012

Background/purpose

An early diagnosis of cutaneous malignant melanoma is of high importance for good prognosis. An objective, non‐invasive instrument could improve the diagnostic accuracy of melanoma and decrease unnecessary biopsies. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of Near‐infrared and skin impedance spectroscopy in combination as a tool to distinguish between malignant and benign skin tumours.

Methods

Near‐infrared and skin impedance spectra were collected in vivo on 50 naevi or suspect melanomas prior to excision. Received data were analysed using multivariate techniques and the results were compared to histopathology analyses of the tumours. A total of 12 cutaneous malignant melanomas, 19 dysplastic naevi and 19 benign naevi were included in the study.

Results

The observed sensitivity and specificity of the proposed method were 83% and 95%, respectively, for malignant melanoma.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the combination of near‐infrared and skin impedance spectroscopy is a promising tool for non‐invasive diagnosis of suspect cutaneous malignant melanomas.
Diversity–stability relationships in plant communities of contrasting habitats
Authors: Kuiters A.T.
Published: September 2012

Questions

To what extent are small‐scale (<200 m2) plant species dynamics related to biotic (species richness, proportion of short‐lived species) and abiotic (soil nitrogen and moisture) factors? Are species‐rich plant communities more stable in terms of their species composition? Do species‐rich communities exhibit more variation in the number of individuals at both the population and community level?

Locations

Coastal dunes, peatlands and marshlands, western Netherlands.

Methods

We analysed small‐scale species dynamics in naturally assembled plant communities from dune grassland, dune scrubland, dune slack, moist oligotrophic grassland and marshland, differing in species richness, soil nutrient and hydrological conditions. The analysis was based on long‐term data sets comprising 61 permanent plots (scale: 2 x 2 m–14 x 14 m), monitored over a period of 14–52 yr, encompassing 992 relevés. Species dynamics was expressed using different measures, i.e. species turnover, species dissimilarity, cumulative species number and variation in species abundances, at the population and community level. Plot size and length of the monitoring period were included as explanatory variables to make clear that the results were not confounded by these factors.

Results

Generalized linear modelling revealed that the variation in species dynamics among plots was largely explained by biotic factors, i.e. differences in species diversity (19–54%) and the proportion of short‐lived species in the vegetation (<3%), and to a small extent (<10%) by abiotic factors, i.e. differences in abiotic conditions. Species‐rich plots were more stable in terms of species composition and year‐to‐year variation in species abundances and total species abundances.

Conclusions

The naturally assembled communities, spanning a broad gradient of resource availability (dry to moist and nutrient‐poor to ‐rich soils), conformed to the same positive relationship between diversity and stability, both at the population and the community level. Although observational studies do not allow drawing of conclusions on mechanisms behind observed patterns, possible explanations are briefly discussed.
Negative‐pressure wound dressings to secure split‐thickness skin grafts in the perineum
Authors: Lee Kyeong‐Tae , Pyon Jai‐Kyong , Lim So‐Young , Mun Goo‐Hyun , Oh Kap Sung , Bang Sa‐Ik
Published: September 2012

Several researches have shown that negative‐pressure wound dressings can secure split‐thickness skin grafts and improve graft survival. However, in anatomically difficult body regions such as the perineum it is questionable whether these dressings have similar beneficial effects. In this study, we evaluated the effects of negative‐pressure wound dressings on split‐thickness skin grafts in the perineum by comparing wound healing rate and complication rate with that of tie‐over dressings. A retrospective chart review was performed for the patients who underwent a split‐thickness skin graft to reconstruct perineal skin defects between January 2007 and December 2011. After grafting, the surgeon selected patients to receive either a negative‐pressure dressing or a tie‐over dressing. In both groups, the initial dressing was left unchanged for 5 days, then changed to conventional wet gauze dressing. Graft success was assessed 2 weeks after surgery by a single clinician. A total of 26 patients were included in this study. The mean age was 56·6 years and the mean wound size was 273·1 cm2. Among them 14 received negative‐pressure dressings and 12 received tie‐over dressings. Negative‐pressure dressing group had higher graft taken rate (P = 0·036) and took shorter time to complete healing (P = 0·01) than tie‐over dressing group. The patients with negative‐pressure dressings had a higher rate of graft success and shorter time to complete healing, which has statistical significance. Negative‐pressure wound dressing can be a good option for effective management of skin grafts in the perineum.
Keratinocytes in the treatment of severe burn injury: an update
Authors: Lootens Liesbeth , Brusselaers Nele , Beele Hilde , Monstrey Stan
Published: September 2012

Burns are among the most life‐threatening physical injuries, in which fast wound closure is crucial. The surgical burn care has evolved considerably throughout the past decennia resulting in a shift of therapeutic goals. Therapies aiming to provide coverage of the burn have been replaced by treatments that have both functional as aesthetic outcomes. The standard in treating severe burns is still early excision followed by skin grafting. The use of cultured keratinocytes to cover extensive burn wounds appeared very promising at first, but the technique still has several limitations of which the long time to culture, the major costs, the risk of infection and the need for an adequate dermal layer limit clinical application. The introduction of dermal substitutes, composite grafts, tissue engineering based on stem cell application have been advocated. The aim of this review is to assess the use of cultured keratinocytes in terms of technical aspects, clinical application, limitations and future perspectives. Cultured keratinocytes are expected to keep playing a role in wound healing, especially in the field of chronic wounds. In severe burns, despite its limitations, keratinocytes can be beneficial if implemented as one of the elements in a broader wound management.
Electrophysical therapy for managing diabetic foot ulcers: a systematic review
Authors: Kwan Rachel L‐C , Cheing Gladys L‐Y , Vong Sinfia K‐S , Lo Sing K
Published: September 2012

To systematically assess published reports on the efficacy of electrophysical therapy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, including electrical stimulation, low‐level laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound and electromagnetic therapy. Databases searched included MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) from 1966 to 2011. Studies reviewed included only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on treatment with electrophysical modalities compared with sham, conventional treatment or other electrophysical modalities. Information extracted were objective measures of healing and data useful for the calculation of effect size. Eight RCTs were eventually included in the critical appraisal, with a combined total of 325 participants. Five studies were conducted on electrical stimulation, two on phototherapy and one on ultrasound. All studies reported that the experimental group was significantly more favourable than the control or sham group. The pooled estimate of the number of healed ulcers of the three studies on electrical stimulation compared to the control or sham electrical stimulation showed statistical significance [mean difference of 2·8 (95% CI = 1·5–5·5, P = 0·002] in favour of electrical stimulation. The results indicated potential benefit of using electrophysical therapy for managing diabetic foot ulcers. However, due to the small number of trials ever conducted, the possibility of any harmful effects cannot be ruled out, and high‐quality trials with larger sample sizes are warranted.
Bedside sonographic measurement of the inferior vena cava caval index is a poor predictor of fluid responsiveness in emergency department patients
Authors: Corl Keith , Napoli Anthony M , Gardiner Fenwick
Published: September 2012

Objectives

Sonographic measurement of the inferior vena cava (IVC) caval index predicts central venous pressure in ED patients. Fluid responsiveness (FR) is a measure of preload dependence defined as an increase in cardiac output secondary to volume expansion. We sought to determine if the caval index is an accurate measurement of FR in ED patients.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, observational trial at an urban, academic, adult ED with an annual census >105 000. Included patients were clinically suspected of eu‐ and hypovolemia. Excluded patients were <18 years old, pregnant, incarcerated, sustained significant trauma or unable to consent. Supine IVC diameter was measured by bedside ultrasonography (M‐Turbo; Sonosite, Bothwell, WA, USA). Caval index = [(expiratory IVC diameter − inspiratory IVC diameter)/expiratory IVC diameter] × 100. FR was defined as an increase in the cardiac index by >10% by impedance cardiography (BioZ; Sonosite) following passive leg raise. The primary outcome was analysed using Spearman correlations for non‐parametric data and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve by Wilcoxon method.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled; four were excluded because of incomplete data collection. Thirty‐one per cent (95% CI 13–48) of the patients were FR. The mean initial caval and cardiac index were 15.8% (95% CI 9.5–22) and 2.9 L/min/m2 (95% CI 2.6–3.2), respectively. Caval index did not predict FR (receiver operating curve = 0.46, 95% CI 0.21–0.71, P = 0.63).

Conclusion

Bedside sonographic measurement of IVC caval index does not predict FR in a heterogeneous ED patient population. Further research using this technique in targeted patient subsets and a variety of shock etiologies is needed.
Capacity building in emergency care: An example from Madang, Papua New Guinea
Authors: Phillips Georgina A , Hendrie Jamie , Atua Vincent , Manineng Clement
Published: September 2012

Background

Divine Word University (DWU) is an emerging national university of Papua New Guinea (PNG) based in the provincial capital of Madang, providing training for Health Extension Officers (HEOs). HEOs form the backbone of healthcare delivery in PNG as clinicians, public health officers and health centre managers. Both campus‐based and clinical teaching at the nearby Modilon Hospital is limited because of significant resource constraints.

Objective

This article describes a visiting clinical lecturer programme in which Australasian emergency physicians and emergency registrars deliver teaching to HEO students at DWU and Modilon Hospital.

Methods

Volunteer doctors are briefed pre‐departure and given prepared educational tools. Visits are from 2 weeks to 3 months, and include the possibility of accredited training for emergency registrars through the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine. DWU provides secure accommodation and assistance with travel and visa logistics. Tasks for visiting lecturers include delivering campus‐based teaching on emergency medicine (EM) topics, structured and opportunistic bedside tutorials, and clinical teaching and assistance with ED care alongside local EM clinicians.

Discussion

Programme evaluation has relied on qualitative feedback, which has been positive from all stakeholders. Visiting lecturers gain teaching skills and insights into the challenges of emergency healthcare delivery in an international, resource‐constrained setting. Local staff receive assistance and support as well as learning new teaching skills. Students receive increased interactive learning opportunities.

Conclusion

This programme provides positive models of both emergency care capacity building in a resource‐constrained setting and training in international EM for Australasian clinicians.
In vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Extracts from Annatto (Bixa orellanaL.) Leaves and Seeds
Authors: Viuda‐Martos Manuel , Ciro‐Gómez Gelmy L. , Ruiz‐Navajas Yolanda , Zapata‐Montoya José E. , Sendra Esther , Pérez‐Álvarez José A. , Fernández‐López Juana
Published: September 2012

The aim of this work was to determine (1) the total phenolic compound (TPC), total flavonoid compound (TFC) and bixin and norbixin content of polar extracts of leaves (ALE) and seed (ASE) from annatto (Bixa orellana L.); (2) the antioxidant activity, the ALE and ASE by means of different antioxidant tests, and (3) the effectiveness of ALE and ASE on the growth inhibition of several bacterial strains. Five different test systems were used to determine the antioxidant activity, while the microdilution method was used to test for antimicrobial activity. ALE presented higher (P < 0.05) TPC and TFC than ASE. As regards antioxidant activity, at all the concentrations tested and with all the methods, except the Rancimat test, the ALE samples showed higher (P < 0.05) antioxidant activity than ASE samples. As regards antibacterial activity, ASE was a stronger inhibitor (P < 0.05) of bacterial growth than ALE. Both ALE and ASE could be used as alternative natural preservatives in food matrices due to mainly their broad antioxidant activity and lesser extent of their antibacterial activity.

Practical Applications

The B. orellana seed and leaf extracts could be suitable for application in on the food industry because It is an important source phenolic, flavonoids and carotenoids compounds, the antioxidant properties of which could be very appreciated in a big number of food processing to avoid its oxidation not only during processing but also during storage period. However, their antimicrobial action is limited. Other important reason for their suitability is their natural origin, which consumers find comforting.
Use of SPARK to Promote After‐School Physical Activity
Authors: Herrick Heidi , Thompson Hannah , Kinder Jennifer , Madsen Kristine A.
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND: The after‐school period is potentially an important venue for increasing physical activity for youth. We sought to assess the effectiveness of the Sports, Play, and Recreation for Youth (SPARK) program to increase physical activity and improve cardiorespiratory fitness and weight status among elementary students after school.

METHODS: This quasi‐experimental controlled study compared change in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), body mass index (BMI) z‐score, and cardiorespiratory fitness (VO2) over 5 months between students in after‐school programs exposed to SPARK versus controls. Participants were fifth grade students at 3 intervention schools (N = 48) and 3 control schools (N = 52).

RESULTS: There was no difference between groups in mean change in MVPA, BMI z‐score, or cardiorespiratory fitness. After‐school time dedicated to physical activity did not increase with the implementation of SPARK. Intervention students' self‐assessment of their activity levels relative to their peers significantly increased compared to control students (p = .011).

CONCLUSIONS: In this 5‐month study, the SPARK program did not increase MVPA in the after‐school setting. Increasing the amount of time dedicated to physical activity may be as important as the curriculum used to effectively increase physical activity after school.
Alliance for a Healthier Generation's Competitive Beverage and Food Guidelines: Do Elementary School Administrators Know About Them and Do They Report Implementing Them?
Authors: Ohri‐Vachaspati Punam , Turner Lindsey , Chaloupka Frank J.
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND: The availability of competitive foods in schools is a modifiable factor in efforts to prevent childhood obesity. The Alliance for a Healthier Generation launched the Healthy Schools Program in 2006 to encourage schools to create healthier food environments, including the adoption of nutritional guidelines for competitive beverages and foods. This study examines nationwide awareness and implementation of the guidelines in US public elementary schools.

METHODS: Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of elementary schools using mail‐back surveys in 2006‐2007, 2007‐2008, 2008‐2009, and 2009‐2010.

RESULTS: From 2006‐2007 to 2009‐2010, awareness of the Alliance's beverage guidelines increased from 35.0% to 51.8% among school administrators (p < .01); awareness of the food guidelines increased from 29.4% to 40.2% (p < .01). By 2009‐2010, almost one third of the schools that sold competitive beverages and foods reported having implemented or being in the process of implementing the guidelines. Implementation was higher among schools from Southern states. Schools with a majority of Black or Latino students were less likely to implement the guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS: Awareness and implementation of the Alliance's beverage and food guidelines has significantly increased since the 2006‐2007 school year, indicating successful diffusion of the guidelines. However, many administrators at schools who sold competitive products were not aware of the guidelines, indicating a need for continued efforts. In addition, lower implementation among schools serving minority students suggests that the Alliance's targeted efforts to provide intensive technical assistance to such schools is warranted and necessary.
Frame Spillover: Media Framing and Public Opinion of a Multifaceted LGBT Rights Agenda
Authors: Engel Stephen M.
Published: September 2012

Between May and July 2003, a shift in how the US public viewed the legality of consensual homosexual sex occurred. While in May the largest percentage of respondents to date supported decriminalizing such activity, that percentage dropped eleven points two months later. Similar declines in support were evident in the same period over a range of gay and lesbian rights claims. The ruling inLawrence v. Texas(2003) decriminalizing homosexual sex is the obvious intervening event. To explain this pattern, coding of print and televised news coverage of the ruling throughout 2003 was undertaken. Coverage was not overtly negative in terms of antigay rhetoric or hostility toward the judiciary; rather, the dominant media frame focused on the implications ofLawrencefor an entirely separate rights issue: marriage equality. This article examines the dynamic of frame “spillover,” or the idea that media focus on a distinct and not widely supported rights claim in a multifaceted rights agenda might depress support across the entire rights agenda. The findings call for further research, and they have implications for scholarship on public opinion, social movement framing, and ideational development and policy debate as studied within the broader field of American political development.
Experience of transurethral resection of the prostate: a qualitative study
Authors: Valiee Sina , Kalhor Marya Maryam , Dehghan Nayeri Nahid
Published: September 2012

There is no doubt that experiencing each disease, particularly their therapeutic methods, affects different aspects of a person's life. Little information is available about experiencing this disease and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) despite the high level of prevalence of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). The aim of this study was to explore the experience of TURP. This research was a qualitative, content analysis study. The data was gathered by conducting in‐depth interviews using the interview manual. After interviewing, 15 patients who had undergone TURP were selected through purposive sampling. Accordingly, once reaching data saturation, the data was analysed through the conventional content analysis. Four themes emerged after analysing the data. The findings indicated that the TURP surgery for these patients was equal to surrendering to the disease, having no other options but undergoing surgery, sense of release and relief, and concern over future. The findings of this study led to an increase in the body of knowledge currently existing in providing nursing for patients who had undergone TURP. Nurses at urology wards ought to attend to these points and at the same time respond to patients' demands besides offering a full‐fledged post‐surgery nursing care by executing training of post‐surgery, self‐care measures. Moreover, they should offer patient‐centered care and training so that there would be the possibility for them to keep in touch with all of the patients who have undergone surgery. In addition, it would facilitate the expression of patients' feelings about their concerns after the surgery and their access to nursing care after being discharged.
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macfad) Phytochemicals Composition Is Modulated by Household Processing Techniques
Authors: Uckoo Ram M. , Jayaprakasha Guddadarangavvanahally K. , Balasubramaniam V. M. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Grapefruits (Citrus paradisi Macfad) contain several phytochemicals known to have health maintaining properties. Due to the consumer's interest in obtaining high levels of these phytochemicals, it is important to understand the changes in their levels by common household processing techniques. Therefore, mature Texas "Rio Red" grapefruits were processed by some of the common household processing practices such as blending, juicing, and hand squeezing techniques and analyzed for their phytochemical content by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results suggest that grapefruit juice processed by blending had significantly (P < 0.05) higher levels of flavonoids (narirutin, naringin, hesperidin, neohesperidin, didymin, and poncirin) and limonin compared to juicing and hand squeezing. No significant variation in their content was noticed in the juice processed by juicing and hand squeezing. Ascorbic acid and citric acid were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in juice processed by juicing and blending, respectively. Furthermore, hand squeezed fruit juice had significantly higher contents of dihydroxybergamottin (DHB) than juice processed by juicing and blending. Bergamottin and 5‐methoxy‐7 gernoxycoumarin (5‐M‐7‐GC) were significantly higher in blended juice compared to juicing and hand squeezing. Therefore, consuming grapefruit juice processed by blending may provide higher levels of health beneficial phytochemicals such as naringin, narirutin, and poncirin. In contrast, juice processed by hand squeezing and juicing provides lower levels of limonin, bergamottin, and 5‐M‐7‐GC. These results suggest that, processing techniques significantly influence the levels of phytochemicals and blending is a better technique for obtaining higher levels of health beneficial phytochemicals from grapefruits.

Practical Application:  Blending, squeezing, and juicing are common household processing techniques used for obtaining fresh grapefruit juice. Understanding the levels of health beneficial phytochemicals present in the juice processed by these techniques would enable the consumers to make a better choice to obtain high level of these compounds.
Single‐balloon enteroscopy for small bowel diseases: Results from an initial experience at a single Chinese center
Authors: Gong Wei , Zhi Fa Chao , Bai Yang , Xiao Bing , De Liu Si , Xu Zhi Min , Jiang Bo
Published: September 2012

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the performance, diagnostic yield, and safety of single‐balloon enteroscopy (SBE) at a Chinese tertiary‐care center.

Methods

A total of 67 patients with suspected small bowel diseases who underwent SBE via the oral and/or anal routes from January 2009 to August 2011 were retrospectively analyzed. Data were extracted from electronic clinical and endoscopy records. The indications, SBE procedure time, diagnostic yield and complications were summarized and evaluated.

Results

A total of 42 SBE procedures through the oral route and 38 via the anal route were performed in these 67 patients. Patients were referred mainly for obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB) (40.3%) and abdominal pain (29.8%). The mean procedure duration was 68.1 min from the oral cavity and 77.5 min from the anus. The estimated depth of insertion was 247.6 ± 80.3 cm from the oral cavity and 131.1 ± 68.7 cm from the anus. The overall significant diagnostic yield was 68.7%. In patients with OGIB and unexplained chronic abdominal pain, the diagnostic yield was 74.1% and 50.0%, respectively. There were no significant complications.

Conclusion

SBE appears to be a safe and effective method for the diagnosis and treatment of deep small bowel disease.
Pseudothrombocytopenia or platelet clumping as a possible cause of low platelet count in patients with viral infection: a case series from single institution focusing on hepatitis A virus infection
Authors: Choe W.‐H. , Cho Y.‐U. , Chae J.‐D. , Kim S.‐H.
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCP) is the phenomenon of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid anticoagulant‐activated platelet clumping, which results in artificially low platelet counts. Other investigators have reported a few cases of PTCP associated with viral infections. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the association of viral infection with PTCP.

Methods

Medical records of patients with thrombocytopenia who were tested for peripheral blood smear examination between March 2009 and February 2011 were reviewed for platelet clumping and viral infection.

Results

Thrombocytopenic patients with viral infection had a higher frequency of platelet clumping than those with other diseases, which was statistically significant (13.8% vs. 6.5%, respectively: P = 0.003). Among the 18 cases where PTCP or platelet clumping was related to viral infection, hepatitis A virus infection (72.2%) was most common, followed by cytomegalovirus (11.1%) and influenza A H1N1 infections (5.6%). A third (33.3%) of the patients had platelet counts <100 × 109/L.

Conclusion

Pseudothrombocytopenia or platelet clumping should be considered in patients with acute viral infection, particularly if the platelet count is unexpectedly low, because failure to recognize PTCP may lead to unnecessary diagnostic tests and patient mismanagement.
Influence of Sampling Frequency on Estimation of Annual Total Phosphorus and Total Suspended Solids Loads1
Authors: Jones Amber Spackman , Horsburgh Jeffery S. , Mesner Nancy O. , Ryel Ronald J. , Stevens David K.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  The determination of sediment and nutrient loads is typically based on the collection and analysis of grab samples. The frequency and regularity of traditional sampling may not provide representation of constituent loading, particularly in systems with flashy hydrology. At two sites in the Little Bear River, Utah, continuous, high‐frequency turbidity was used with surrogate relationships to generate estimates of total phosphorus and total suspended solids concentrations, which were paired with discharge to estimate annual loads. The high frequency records were randomly subsampled to represent hourly, daily, weekly, and monthly sampling frequencies and to examine the effects of timing, and resulting annual load estimates were compared to the reference loads. Higher frequency sampling resulted in load estimates that better approximated the reference loads. The degree of bias was greater at the more hydrologically responsive site in the upper watershed, which required a higher sampling frequency than the lower watershed site to achieve the same level of accuracy in estimating the reference load. The hour of day and day of week of sampling impacted load estimation, depending on site and hydrologic conditions. The effects of sampling frequency on the determination of compliance with a water quality criterion were also examined. These techniques can be helpful in determining necessary sampling frequency to meet the objectives of a water quality monitoring program.
Inter‐ and intra‐fraction motion during radiation therapy to the whole breast in the supine position: A systematic review
Authors: Michalski Andrea , Atyeo John , Cox Jennifer , Rinks Marianne
Published: September 2012

Inter‐ and intra‐fraction motion during radiation therapy for breast cancer has been a widely researched topic. Recently, however, with the emergence of new technologies and techniques such as intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), field in field, volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), tomotherapy and partial breast irradiation (PBI), the magnitude of this movement has become more important. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive summary of the literature relating to the magnitude of motion during radiation therapy for a breast cancer patient. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using Medline, Cinhal, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science. Studies included were limited to women having radical radiation therapy to the whole breast in the supine position. Studies needed to report quantitatively on the magnitude of inter‐ and intra‐fraction motion using electronic portal imaging, port films or kilovoltage imaging techniques. Eighteen articles fitted the selection criteria. The averages of random and systematic error for inter‐ and intra‐fraction movement were reported using central lung distance, central irradiated width, central beam edge to skin distance and cranio‐caudal distance measurements, or isocentric matching techniques. Inter‐fraction motion was consistently larger than intra‐fraction motion but, on average, within a 5 mm tolerance. There were, though, large maximum inter‐ and intra‐fraction variations observed in the measurements of individual patients, which indicate the need for daily inter‐ and intra‐ fraction motion management before implementing IMRT, VMAT, tomotherapy or PBI techniques.
Comparative study on the level of B lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS) and frequency of lymphocytes between sero‐negative and sero‐positive rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Geng Yan , Zhang Zhuo‐li
Published: September 2012

Aim

To investigate the differences of B lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS) level and frequency of lymphocytes between sero‐negative and sero‐positive rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.

Methods

Sixty‐nine RA patients were enrolled into this study and their clinical data were recorded. The BlyS levels in plasma, frequency of T and B lymphocytes, as well as T‐helper (Th) subgroups were compared between sero‐negative and sero‐positive RA patients. Furthermore, the correlations between clinical features and immunological features were analyzed.

Results

The plasma BlyS level in sero‐negative RA was higher compared to the sero‐positive RA patients (1.73 ± 1.71 vs. 0.99 ± 0.59 ng/mL, P < 0.05) and osteoarthritis (OA) patients (1.73 ± 1.71 vs. 0.59 ± 0.12 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Plasma BlyS level was correlated with disease activity score (DAS‐28, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein), but had no correlation with the titers of rheumatoid factor and anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) antibodies. The patients with more advanced changes in X‐rays had high plasma BlyS levels. No significant differences in the frequency of T lymphocytes, Th subpopulations and B lymphocytes in peripheral blood were observed between sero‐negative and sero‐positive RA patients.

Conclusions

Plasma BlyS level was correlated with disease activity and radiological progress, which indicates that plasma BlyS level may become a useful biological marker to reflect DAS and to predict RA prognosis.