bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The antecedents of friendships in moderately diverse classrooms: Social preference, social impact, and social behavior
Authors: Kawabata Yoshito , Crick Nicki R.
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to examine the antecedents of cross-racial/ethnic friendships and same-racial/ethnic friendships. The sample consisted of 444 (161 African American, 108 European American, 100 Asian American, and 75 Latino) children who were in the fourth grade from 39 classrooms in 10 public elementary schools. Results of Mixed Linear Models demonstrated that social preference was associated with relative increases in same-racial/ethnic friendships; and leadership skills and the inhibition of relational aggression were related to relative increases in cross-racial/ethnic friendships. Further, social preference weakened and leadership skills reinforced the stability of cross-racial/ethnic friendships. Developmental processes, involving social preference, social behavior, classroom diversity, and diverse friendships were discussed.
Marital Adjustment, Parental Functioning, and Emotional Sharing in War Veterans
Authors: Solomon Zahava , Debby-Aharon Shimrit , Zerach Gadi , Horesh Danny
Published: August 2010

The current study aimed to examine the implications of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and emotional sharing in marital adjustment and parental functioning among Israeli veterans of the 1982 Lebanon War. The sample consisted of combat stress reaction (CSR) veterans ( n = 264) and non-CSR veterans ( n = 209). Results show that traumatized veterans reported lower levels of marital adjustment and more problems in parental functioning. Furthermore, higher levels of posttraumatic symptoms, especially avoidance symptoms, were related to a decrease in marital adjustment and parental functioning. Most important, emotional sharing was found to moderate the relation between posttraumatic stress disorder severity and parental functioning. Possible explanations, limitations of the current study, and recommendations for future research are presented.
What’s in a Name? Word descriptors of cancer-related fatigue
Authors: Hauser Katherine , Rybicki Lisa , Walsh Declan
Published: August 2010

Many different words are used to describe fatigue. It is unclear whether these word descriptors represent the same cancer symptom or dimension. The objective of this study was to identify clinical associations of three fatigue word descriptors (FWDs): ‘easy fatigue’, ‘weakness’, and ‘lack of energy’ (LOE). One thousand consecutive palliative medicine patients completed a 38-item symptom checklist. The prevalence of the three FWDs alone and in combination was calculated. Spearman correlations assessed associations between FWDs. Logistic regression analysis identified univariable and multivariable predictors for each FWD. Survival was estimated using the Kaplan—Meier method, individually and for 0—1 versus 2—3 FWDs, and compared using log-rank tests.

The prevalence of easy fatigue was 69%, weakness 66%, and LOE 61%. Correlations between the FWDs were high (0.65—0.79). In multivariable models, clinical associations (particularly neuro-psychiatric symptoms and performance status) of the FWDs were variable. Weakness was associated with performance status, but not anxiety or depression. LOE was associated with anxiety and depression, but not performance status. Fatigue was associated with depression, but not anxiety or performance status. All FWDs were associated with dry mouth, early satiety, sleep problems, and weight loss. The worst survival was associated with two or three reported FWDs compared with none or one (P < 0.001). Weakness and LOE had distinct clinical associations that differed from fatigue. Evaluation of fatigue should use multiple descriptors (particularly weakness), as they are not synonymous. Further research is necessary to identify biological associations for discrete FWDs.
Preferences and Perceived Involvement in Treatment Decision Making among Chinese Patients with Chronic Hepatitis
Authors: Zhang Yuhai , Su Haixia , Shang Lei , Li Duan , Wang Rui , Zhang Ruiqiao , Xu Yongyong
Published: August 2010

Objectives. The objectives of this study were to measure the preferences for and perceived involvement in treatment decision making among Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis and to explore the factors that may influence patients’ preferences. The study also aimed to analyze patients’ satisfaction with decision and information provision and their relationships with the decisional role. Methods. Semistructured interviews were performed with 178 chronic hepatitis patients. The Control Preferences Scale was translated into Chinese from English and adopted to measure patients’ preferred and perceived decisional role. Patients’ satisfaction with decision and information provision was also investigated by a 5-point Likert-type scale. Results. Patients with chronic hepatitis in the study generally preferred a collaborative role (45%) or passive role (44%); only 11% of patients preferred an active role in treatment decision making. The agreement between patients’ perceived and preferred role was not perfect (Bowker’s S = 33.8, P < 0.001). Age and education level were significantly associated with patients’ preferences: Younger, better educated patients tended to prefer more active roles. A total of 54% of patients felt satisfied with treatment decisions, whereas 39% of patients felt satisfied with information provision. Patients’ levels of satisfaction with their treatment decisions were correlated not only with the perceived role itself but also with its agreement with the preferred role. Patients’ satisfaction with information provision was significantly correlated with patients’ preferred role. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between patients’ satisfaction with the treatment decision and information provision. Conclusions. Patients’ preferences for participation in treatment decision making should be considered seriously by doctors during the encounter. Health providers should make a greater effort to improve doctor-patient communication and decrease the mismatch between patients’ perceived and preferred decisional role.
Instrumentalized rationality, cross-cultural mediators, and civil epistemologies of late colonialism
Authors: Kusiak Pauline
Published: August 2010

This paper builds upon studies of the constitutive role of technology in the establishment of colonial order by demonstrating some of the ways in which a relationship between spiritual authority and technologies of the secular state came to be articulated together in the late colonial period, and hence embedded within contemporary postcolonial techno-politics. Focusing on adult public health campaigns in French West Africa, I suggest that that the end of colonialism sparked a host of debates about what counted as knowledge of political reality, the means to obtain that knowledge and the persons in which such knowledge was vested. Within this turbulent context, ideas about the ‘magico-spiritual’ were woven together with ‘secular’ instruments of the state, in the process forging new conceptions of political reality. By describing the dynamics of this process, my analysis of African socio-technical systems modulates some key science studies frameworks to make them more applicable to contemporary non-Western settings. While science studies can more than adequately account for how technology may be used to build ‘the nation’, to be applicable to postcolonial contexts such studies should also be able to address the role of socio-technical contestation for producing techno-political states of enduring instability and disequilibrium.
Health Trajectories Among Older Movers
Authors: Wilmoth Janet M.
Published: August 2010

Objective: To examine health trajectories among older migrants by reason for move. Method: Data from the 1992 to 2006 Health and Retirement Study (HRS) are used to model trajectories of self-rated health and activity of daily living (ADL) limitations that occurred prior seven types of moves. Results: There are substantial differences across the reason-for-move groups in initial levels of self-rated health. Declines in self-rated health among nursing home movers are more than two times steeper than the other reason-for-move groups. Employment, comfort, economic security, life crisis, and affiliation movers have low initial levels of ADL limitations and slow increases in ADL limitations. Health and nursing home movers have higher initial ADL limitations and increases in ADL limitations that are three and seven times higher respectively than the other groups. Discussion: The results are consistent with the predictions of Litwak and Longino’s (1987) typology of later-life migration and the extant literature on later-life migration. Implications for communities are considered.
Urban youth in Africa
Authors: Sommers Marc
Published: August 2010

It is widely assumed that most Africans reside in rural areas, that African cities make little economic sense and are unusually violent because so many unemployed young men live there, and that urban migrant youth can be drawn back to their former rural homes. This paper challenges all of these assumptions. In the process, it reviews dominant trends in Africa’s rapid urban expansion and examines what life is like for urban youth. I will argue that African cities are underserved and fiercely competitive economic environments that are negatively impacted by neoliberal development policies. Urban youth life tends to take place in worlds that are largely separate from the rest of society. The pressures and dangers facing male and female youth can be extreme, yet at the same time African cities are exceptionally stimulating places that provide opportunities for re-invention for many urban youth. The paper ends with recommendations for addressing the needs of the marginalized majority of Africa’s urban youth more effectively. Its primary focus is urban areas in the region of sub-Saharan Africa.
Patient perspective of systemic lupus erythematosus in relation to health-related quality of life concepts: a qualitative study
Authors: McElhone K. , Abbott J. , Gray J. , Williams A. , Teh L-S.
Published: August 2010

We sought to understand the patients’ ‘lived experiences of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)’ by exploring, describing and clarifying the patients’ perspective of how they felt about having SLE and how the disease impacted on their lives, both positively and/or negatively. An interpretative phenomenological approach was employed. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 30 females with SLE across a wide range of age (21 to 75 years), disease characteristics, disease duration (1 to 28 years) and ethnicity (Whites, South Asians). Eleven themes emerged as important to the patients: prognosis and course of disease; body image; effects of treatment; emotional difficulties; inability to plan due to disease unpredictability; fatigue; pain; career prospects and loss of income; memory loss/concentration; reliance on others to assist with everyday tasks; and pregnancy issues. Most patients reported a negative impact of SLE on their lives although a few patients found positive aspects to having SLE. The findings of this study identified themes important to patients with SLE and these themes will inform clinicians on the patients’ perspective of having SLE.
Becoming a man while playing a female sport: The construction of masculine identity in boys doing rhythmic gymnastics
Authors: Chimot Caroline , Louveau Catherine
Published: August 2010

The article shows how young men who take part in a ‘feminine’ sport — rhythmic gymnastics — construct their masculine identity. In order to be considered as men, boys performing rhythmic gymnastics have to work to construct their identity, a construction which depends both on their personal projects and on their relationships with family and friends. Adults (parents and other family members) as well as peers exert pressure on boys taking part in rhythmic gymnastics to conform to traditional masculine norms and their constructed identity can depend on this, as well as the relationships they have with girls who also do rhythmic gymnastics. These young men implement strategies in order to reconcile the different images of masculinity they are confronted with and to construct their identity: that of a man playing a feminine sport.
‘Managing change’ in British tennis 1990—2006: Unintended outcomes of LTA talent development policies
Authors: Lake Robert J
Published: August 2010

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) initiated several policies aimed at developing talent in British tennis, chief of which was the transformation of traditional tennis club cultures to make them more open, accessible and performance-oriented. The 1990s also witnessed other changes that influenced the LTA’s overall position: a shift in emphasis from mass to elite-level provision within wider British sport policy, the introduction of new investment opportunities through the National Lottery, the rise of New Labour, a change in LTA leadership and a swell in LTA investment drawn from Wimbledon profits. This article draws upon Norbert Elias’s Game Models theoretical framework to: i) examine some of the talent development policies introduced by the LTA from the early 1990s onwards; ii) analyse the gradual shifting power relations throughout the late 20th century between the LTA and its affiliated tennis clubs, which came to influence the former’s ability to implement policy; iii) uncover problems that the LTA encountered in delivering policy objectives in tennis clubs; and, iv) analyse the overall unintended and undesired outcomes of these policies for the LTA itself, and for British tennis clubs, coaches and players.
The career trajectory of a Black male high school basketball player: A social reproduction perspective
Authors: Singer John N , May Reuben A Buford
Published: August 2010

Interscholastic sport in the United States is a social institution within which the social relationships and attitudes needed to sustain the existing dominant economic and class relations of the larger society could be perpetuated or reproduced. This single case study allowed us to explore the question of social reproduction by examining the nuances of how a young Black male high school basketball player helped to reproduce his social class position in society by aspiring to a career as a professional athlete. Our findings reveal that not only does this young man exclude himself from alternative opportunities for social mobility, but also in the context of pursuing hoop dreams, he lacked the cultural and social capital for navigating his way to his desired goal. Practical and research implications are discussed.
The Family Care Coordinator
Authors: Howitt Mary Jean
Published: August 2010

The care of a child/adolescent with cancer or a blood disorder is complex and often long term, involving many interdisciplinary team members across services and geographical boundaries. This experience can be overwhelming for patients and their families, highlighting the need for a family care coordinator (FCC) to help them navigate their care path. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the concept of family care coordination as experienced by the IWK Health Center in Nova Scotia, Canada, with the intent of sharing a valuable model of care with other pediatric hematology/oncology services. Key components of the role are ongoing assessment, education, partnerships, communication, support, and advocacy. Essential resources and pathways are required to implement the role and optimize patient/family outcomes, facilitating consistent and accessible care, enhancing quality and safety, building trust, and gleaning efficiencies. Inherent FCC challenges are identified as time constraints, replacement issues, maintaining professional boundaries, and emotional burnout. A FCC can enable seamless, individualized care for children/adolescents and their families with pediatric oncological and hematological disorders, optimizing the outcomes for all involved.
Comparison of Bacterial CFUs in Five Intravenous Connectors
Authors: Chernecky Cynthia , Waller Jennifer
Published: August 2010

This study determines if there are differences in colony forming units (CFU) of bacteria between five different needleless intravenous connectors. CFUs create environments for bloodstream infections with 1 CFU to begin an infection and 15 to develop infection. Intraluminal pathway protection is a most significant way to eliminate 50% bloodstream infections. Five different connectors were evaluated by independent laboratory in vitro regarding ≥15 CFUs, 4 organisms over 4 days. Q-Syte™ had significantly higher mean number days CFUs ≥15 than all other devices, Rymed-5001® having the least ( p < .0001). Q-Syte™ and TKO+Clave® had significantly more CFUs ≥15 on one or more days. Nonantimicrobial connectors differ on CFU counts in vitro. CFUs are ranked highest to lowest CFUs as follows: Q-Syte™, TKO™Clave ®, MicroCLAVE®, MaxPlus® Clear, and Rymed-5001®. Best nonantimicrobial connector products for intraluminal protection are Rymed-5001® followed by MaxPlus ® Clear. Using the best connector can significantly prevent infections as part of nursing care.
A Collaborative International Community Health Nursing: Clinical Experience in China
Authors: Jie Hu  , Andreatta Susan , Liping Yu  , Sijian Li
Published: August 2010

With increasing changes in the demographic characteristics of the U.S. population, providing culturally competent health care to patients has become an important component of nursing. Study abroad experiences can enhance students’ international perspective, facilitate personal and professional growth, develop cultural competence skills, and help students better understand other cultures and global issues. This article describes University of North Carolina at Greensboro nursing students’ clinical and cultural experiences with Wuhan University, Hope School of Nursing, in China. The international community health nursing experience in China provided students with opportunities to become immersed in Chinese culture, examine the health care system in China, and see the Chinese people and the world from a different perspective. Clinical experiences for the University of North Carolina at Greensboro nursing students included community assessments, home visits, Western and traditional Chinese medicine hospital visits, a health fair, and a health education program presented to community residents in Wuhan. Through their experiences, students learned how to appreciate and respect a culture that is different from their own and enhanced their skills in providing culturally competent care to diverse populations in the United States.
An investigation into the compressive properties of stainless steel micro-lattice structures
Authors: Ushijima K. , Cantwell WJ , Mines RAW , Tsopanos S. , Smith M.
Published: August 2010

This article presents a theoretical analysis for predicting the initial stiffness E*, and plastic collapse strength σ*pl of BCC micro-lattice blocks under compressive loading. This theoretical analysis is based on the observed deformation mechanisms, and can, in principle, be developed to predict the elastic properties of other micro-lattice structures. The analytical solutions are verified by comparing the predictions with FEM data using 1D beam and 3D solid elements and uniaxial compression tests on samples fabricated by selective laser melting. The FEM predictions using the 3D solid elements agree well with the experimental data for a wide range of strut aspect ratios, d/L. In addition, the range of applicability of the analytical model and the FEM predictions using beam elements are clarified.
Forgiveness, Health, and Problematic Drinking among College Students in Southern Appalachia
Authors: Webb Jon R. , Brewer Ken
Published: August 2010

Evidence is growing regarding the salutary relationships between spirituality and health, including alcohol problems, yet little is known about spirituality and health in the context thereof. Cross-sectional associations between forgiveness and health were examined among college student problematic drinkers ( n = 126; ♀ = 60%; Mage = 22) in Southern Appalachia. Controlling for demographic variables (including religiosity), dimensions of forgiveness accounted for 7—33 percent of the variance in the health-related variables in a salutary fashion. Forgiveness of Self appears to be the most important dimension of forgiveness measured, yet the most difficult to develop.
In the Company We Keep
Authors: Brunet Jennifer , Sabiston Catherine M.
Published: August 2010

This study examined the psychometric properties of two scales which assessed social physique anxiety (SPA) in the context of peers (peer SPA) and parents (parent SPA), and differences in reported levels of peer SPA and parent SPA. Young adults ( N = 381, 161 males, Mage = 18.69 years) completed self-report measures. Results supported the internal consistency, convergent validity and factor structure of the peer SPA and parent SPA scales. Also, participants reported significantly higher levels of peer SPA compared to parent SPA. Findings offer preliminary support for the investigation of contextualized SPA using the scales tested in this study, and suggest more research is needed to better understand the processes that may increase or decrease SPA when surrounded by peers and parents.
Self-regulatory Problems Mediate the Association of Contextual Stressors and Unprotected Intercourse among Rural, African American, Young Adult Men
Authors: Kogan Steven M. , Brody Gene H. , Chen Yi-Fu , DiClemente Ralph J.
Published: August 2010

In this brief report, the hypothesis that self-regulatory problems would mediate the association between contextual stressors and unprotected intercourse among rural African American young adult men was investigated. Family support and religiosity were hypothesized to ameliorate the influence of contextual stressors on self-regulatory problems. Hypotheses were tested on 79 sexually active men from a sample recruited with Respondent Driven Sampling; episodes of unprotected intercourse constituted the criterion variable. Analyses supported the mediating role of self-regulatory problems in linking young adult men’s contextual stressors with a heightened likelihood of unprotected intercourse. Religious involvement and family support interacted with contextual stressors to predict diminished associations with self-regulatory problems.
The Construct Validity of Social Inhibition and the Type-D Taxonomy
Authors: Grande Gesine , Glaesmer Heide , Roth Marcus
Published: August 2010

In contrast to the prognostic validity of the type-D personality, there is still little knowledge on the construct validity. In a sample of 102 healthy young adults the construct validity was analysed against the Big-Five dimensions, four of the 16 PF factors, and repressive emotion regulation. Social inhibition was associated with Apprehensiveness, and low scores in social competencies and self-deception. The three non-type-D clusters clearly differed; the restrained cluster emerged as opposite to the type-D cluster in nearly every personality dimension and type of emotion regulation. The article concludes that emotion regulation in socially inhibited persons deserves further investigation.
The Role of Interpersonal Influence in Families in Understanding Children’s Eating Behavior
Authors: Coesens Carolien , De Mol Jan , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Buysse Ann
Published: August 2010

This study investigates children’s eating behavior in a context of bidirectional parent—child influences. Parents and children were asked about their sense of influence and of being influenced concerning food rules. For parents, these feelings seemed to be partly correlated with children’s eating behavior. Additionally, Social Relations Model analysis revealed that parents’ and children’s feelings of influence and being influenced were not only dependent on characteristics of the rater or actor, but also characteristics of the partner and of the unique relationship were found to be important. Furthermore, evidence was found for bidirectional influences, but only for the mother—older sibling dyad.
Effects of Alzheimer Caregiving on Allostatic Load
Authors: Roepke Susan K. , Mausbach Brent T. , Patterson Thomas L. , Von Känel Roland , Ancoli-Israel Sonia , Harmell Alexandrea L. , Dimsdale Joel E. , Aschbacher Kirstin , Mills Paul J. , Ziegler Michael G. , Allison Matthew , Grant Igor
Published: August 2010

This study aimed to determine if Alzheimer caregivers have increased allostatic load compared to non-caregivers. Potential psychological moderators (mastery, depression, and role overload) of the relationship between caregiving status and allostatic load were also explored. Eighty-seven caregivers and 43 non-caregivers underwent biological assessment of allostatic load and psychological assessments. Caregivers had significantly higher allostatic load compared to non-caregivers ( p < .05). Mastery, but not depression or overload, moderated the relationship between caregiving status and allostatic load. In conclusion, allostatic load may represent a link explaining how stress translates to downstream pathology, but more work is necessary to understand the role of psychological factors.
Education and disability pension: A stronger association than previously found
Authors: Bruusgaard Dag , Smeby Lisbeth , Claussen Bjørgulf
Published: August 2010

Introduction: Although the Norwegian Welfare Law includes rigorous medical criteria for granting disability pensions, several non-medical factors have been shown to be associated with and possible causal factors of pensioning. Objectives: We analysed the relationship between disability pension and detailed information on educational attainment in different diagnostic groups. Methods: All ethnic Norwegians aged 18—66 years and alive on 31 December 2003 (n = 2,522,430) were included. Age, sex, the receipt of a disability pension on 31 December 2003, and the diagnosis on the medical certificate were taken from a national social security file. The file also included six levels of education: primary school, low-level secondary school, secondary school, low-level university, university, and research level. Results: We found a dramatic increase in the prevalence of persons granted disability pension with decreasing years of education across all levels of education. The disparities were much stronger than those seen for other health-related parameters and were especially strong for those with musculoskeletal diagnoses. The disability pension is more a consequence of health problems than a proxy for health status. The demonstrated relationship between education and disability pension may be partly explained by exclusion from the work force because of health-related work problems. Conclusions: To facilitate a more inclusive working life, attention should be focused on the work place’s capacity to include people with different levels of competence and functioning rather than on the health problems of the employees.
The Synthespian’s Animated Prehistory: The Monkees, The Archies, Don Kirshner, and the Politics of “Virtual Labor”
Authors: Stahl Matt
Published: August 2010

This article explores the political-economic “prehistory” of the “synthespian” by tracing the emergence of the rock and roll cartoon The Archies (1968—78) from the ashes of the live-action sitcom The Monkees (1966—68) through the career of music publisher and producer Don Kirshner. Drawing on original interviews with the producers of The Archies, it argues that early experiments in “fixing” variable entertainment capital through the organization of divisions of nonproprietary authorship contributed to the development of rights-free “virtual labor.” This analysis brings to light the logics and politics that are never far from “purely technical” advances in entertainment production. The trajectory of Don Kirshner brings into relief historical convergences of efficiencies and rationalizations in different but related fields that were fortuitous for entertainment capital in that they allowed the solution of labor problems—the “agency costs” posed by singing, dancing, instrument-playing, rights-bearing persons—with “virtual laborers,” the visible, audible, and agency-free avatars of hidden divisions of creative labor.
Fine Art Metaphors Reveal Leader Archetypes
Authors: Lindsey Jill L.
Published: August 2010

This article describes a research study that used fine art prints to evoke metaphors of leadership in order to uncover patterns related to tacit views of leadership held by developing leaders, foster self-knowledge, and identify areas for growth in their views about leadership. The study was grounded in the psychodynamic approach to leadership and employed qualitative methods designed to uncover tacit views of leadership. Participants’ art metaphors were content analyzed for thematic connections to cultural archetypes. Their concepts about leadership aligned with five archetypes that represent universal cultural patterns: The Mentor-Teacher, Father-Judge, Warrior-Knight, Revolutionary-Crusader, and Visionary-Alchemist. Connections to these archetypes revealed participants’ positive beliefs, feelings, motives, and actions associated with leading and alerted them to potential abuses of power associated with each archetype.
The epidemiology of fractures of the hand and the influence of social deprivation
Authors: Anakwe R. E. , Aitken S. A. , Cowie J. G. , Middleton S. D. , Court-Brown C. M.
Published: August 2010

This study investigates the relationship between the epidemiology of hand fractures and social deprivation. Data were collected prospectively in a single trauma unit serving a well-defined population. The 1382 patients treated for 1569 fractures of the metacarpals or phalanges represented an incidence of hand fracture of 3.7 per 1000 per year for men and 1.3 per 1000 per year for women. Deprivation was not directly associated with the incidence of hand fracture. Common mechanisms of injury are gender specific. Fractures of the little finger metacarpal were common (27% of the total) and were associated with social deprivation in men ( P = 0.017). For women, fractures where the mechanism of injury was unclear or the patient was intoxicated and could not recall the mechanism showed a clear association with deprivation. Affluent patients were more likely to receive operative treatment. Social deprivation influences both the pattern and management of hand fractures.
Percutaneous A1 pulley release vs steroid injection for trigger digit: the results of a prospective, randomized trial
Authors: Zyluk A. , Jagielski G.
Published: August 2010

This study compared the results of percutaneous A1 pulley release and steroid injection in 105 trigger digits in 95 patients. The patients were randomly assigned to either surgery (43 patients, 46 digits) or steroid injection (52 patients, 59 digits). The results were assessed at 1 and 6 months and the measurements included rate of recurrence (primary outcome measure), pain on movement, active range of movement of the affected digit and grip strength. No recurrences were seen at 1 month. At the 1 month assessment, patients after steroid injection achieved greater active range of movement of the fingers (270° vs 264°) and stronger grip (99% vs 85%) than those treated by percutaneous release. At the 6 month assessment six recurrences (11%) occurred in the steroid injection group and none in the percutaneous release group ( P = 0.005). Patients after percutaneous release had less pain on movement of the involved digit (VAS 0.4 vs 1.3), but still had lower AROM of the fingers (265° vs 270° after steroid injection). We conclude that percutaneous A1 pulley release is more effective medium-term therapy for trigger digit than steroid injection, because of lower risk of recurrence.
Nosocomial bacterial infections in a tertiary hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Endalafer Nigatu , Gebre-Selassie Solomon , Kotiso Berhanu
Published: August 2010

The aim of this study was to determine the magnitude of nosocomial infection and isolate the bacterial aetiologic agents in a tertiary hospital. A total of 215 patients admitted to surgical wards and intensive care unit were followed prospectively. Specimens from patients were determined using standard techniques. Of the patients observed, 77 (35.8%) had 84 (39.1%) nosocomial infections. The overall incidence of nosocomial infections was 35.8/100 patients. Surgical site, urinary tract and blood stream infections comprised 38 (49.4%), 23 (29.8%) and 16 (20.8%), respectively. Of the bacterial isolates, 58/84 (69.0%) were Gram negative and 26/84 (31.0%) Gram positive. Pseudomonas aeruginosa (22.7%) and Escherichia coli (45.8%) were the major causes of surgical site and urinary tract infections, respectively. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 37.5% of the blood stream infections. The incidence of nosocomial infection in the hospital was high. There is a need to reduce the problem with continuous surveillance and the implementation of infection prevention strategies.
Healthcare associated infection in care homes for older people in Scotland: results from a pilot survey
Authors: Mullings Abigail , Murdoch Fiona , MacKenzie Audrey , Cairns Shona , Reilly Jacqui
Published: August 2010

The prevalence of infection in Scottish care homes is currently unknown. The aim of this survey was to estimate the prevalence of infection within a small sample of care homes for older people and to develop and test a methodology for point prevalence surveys which would allow local care home staff to monitor infection in care homes for older people that employ trained nurses.

The pilot survey was undertaken by Health Protection Scotland (HPS) in collaboration with the Care Commission and two volunteer service providers. Data collection within 18 volunteer care homes was undertaken between 6 April 2009 and 1 May 2009. A total of 922 residents from 18 care homes were included. On the day of survey, 87 infections were identified in 86 residents. The prevalence of infection was 9.3%. The most common infections types were urinary tract infections and respiratory tract infections.

The results from this small survey of volunteer care homes have provided valuable insight into the previously unmeasured prevalence of infection in Scottish care homes for older people.

It is hoped that the rollout of a larger scale survey that includes a representative sample of all Scottish care homes can be implemented.
Microbial biofilm control within the dental clinic: reducing multiple risks
Authors: Coleman David C , O'Donnell Mary J , Boyle Maria , Russell Ronnie
Published: August 2010

This short review focuses on biofilms in the dental clinic environment. Microbial biofilms are potentially a significant source of cross-contamination and cross-infection in the dental clinic. Biofilms in dental chair unit waterlines (DUWLs), suction hoses and fittings pose the most significant risk as these may come into contact with the patient during treatment. These can be managed effectively by regular disinfection using chemical disinfectants and procedures that have proven efficacy. As dental chair units (DCUs) are classified as medical devices, there is a requirement for DCU manufacturers to provide detailed guidance for their decontamination. Planned routine preventive maintenance of the dental clinic water network and good quality water will considerably minimise infection risks from microorganisms in tap water and has benefits for the operation of other clinic equipment. Regular and effective cleaning and disinfection of taps, sinks and splash-backs will help to minimise reservoirs and disseminators of potentially pathogenic bacteria from these areas.
Use of alcohol hand rub (AHR) at ward entrances and use of soap and AHR by patients and visitors: a study in 27 wards in nine acute NHS trusts
Authors: Savage Joanne , Fuller Christopher , Besser Sarah , Stone Sheldon
Published: August 2010

Ward procurement of hand hygiene consumables is a proxy measure of hand hygiene compliance. The proportion of this due to use of alcohol hand rub (AHR) at ward entrances, and bedside use of consumables by patients and visitors, is unknown. Thirty-six hours of direct observation of bedside hand hygiene behaviours by healthcare workers (HCWs), patients and visitors on 27 wards in nine hospitals was undertaken. AHR containers from ten ward entrances were collected for four days. Mean daily volume used was compared with mean daily volume procured.

Only 4% of bedside soap and AHR use was by visitors. Patients used neither. An average 21% (range 7—38%) of all AHR procured by wards was used at ward entrances. Non-HCW use of soap or AHR at the bedside is low. Ward entrance use of AHR is modest but varies. Hand hygiene intervention studies using consumables as an outcome should assess and adjust for such usage.
Talking Shop and Shooting the Breeze
Authors: Holleran Shannon E. , Whitehead Jessica , Schmader Toni , Mehl Matthias R.
Published: August 2010

Past research has examined women’s subjective satisfaction in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), but the actual events that correlate with disengagement have not been identified. In this study, workplace conversations of 45 female and male STEM faculty were sampled using the Electronically Activated Recorder, a naturalistic observation method, coded for research or socializing content, and correlated with self-reported job disengagement. Both men and women were less likely to discuss research in conversations with female as compared to male colleagues, and when discussing research with men, women were rated as less competent than men. Consistent with the idea that women in STEM experience social identity threat, discussing research with male colleagues was associated with greater disengagement for women, whereas socializing with male colleagues was associated with less disengagement. These patterns did not hold for men. These findings point to the unique challenges women face in STEM disciplines.
Polyphosphate exerts differential effects on blood clotting, depending on polymer size
Authors: Smith Stephanie A. , Choi Sharon H. , Davis-Harrison Rebecca , Huyck Jillian , Boettcher John , Rienstra Chad M. , Morrissey James H.
Published: August 2010

Polyphosphate, a linear polymer of inorganic phosphate, is secreted by activated platelets and accumulates in many infectious microorganisms. We recently showed that polyphosphate modulates the blood coagulation cascade at 3 steps: it triggers the contact pathway, it accelerates factor V activation, and it enhances fibrin polymerization. We now report that polyphosphate exerts differential effects on blood clotting, depending on polymer length. Very long polymers (≥ 500mers, such as those present in microorganisms) were required for optimal activation of the contact pathway, while shorter polymers (∼ 100mers, similar to the polymer lengths released by platelets) were sufficient to accelerate factor V activation and abrogate the anticoagulant function of the tissue factor pathway inhibitor. Optimal enhancement of fibrin clot turbidity by polyphosphate required ≥ 250mers. Pyrophosphate, which is also secreted by activated platelets, potently blocked polyphosphate-mediated enhancement of fibrin clot structure, suggesting that pyrophosphate is a novel regulator of fibrin function. In conclusion, polyphosphate of the size secreted by platelets is very efficient at accelerating blood clotting reactions but is less efficient at initiating them or at modulating clot structure. Microbial polyphosphate, which is highly procoagulant, may function in host responses to pathogens.
Gray platelet syndrome: natural history of a large patient cohort and locus assignment to chromosome 3p
Authors: Gunay-Aygun Meral , Zivony-Elboum Yifat , Gumruk Fatma , Geiger Dan , Cetin Mualla , Khayat Morad , Kleta Robert , Kfir Nehama , Anikster Yair , Chezar Judith , Arcos-Burgos Mauricio , Shalata Adel , Stanescu Horia , Manaster Joseph , Arat Mutlu , Edwards Hailey , Freiberg Andrew S. , Hart P. Suzanne , Riney Lauren C. , Patzel Katherine , Tanpaiboon Pranoot , Markello Tom , Huizing Marjan , Maric Irina , Horne McDonald , Kehrel Beate E. , Jurk Kerstin , Hansen Nancy F. , Cherukuri Praveen F. , Jones Marypat , Cruz Pedro , Mullikin Jim C. , Nurden Alan , White James G. , Gahl William A. , Falik-Zaccai Tzippora
Published: August 2010

Gray platelet syndrome (GPS) is an inherited bleeding disorder characterized by macrothrombocytopenia and absence of platelet α-granules resulting in typical gray platelets on peripheral smears. GPS is associated with a bleeding tendency, myelofibrosis, and splenomegaly. Reports on GPS are limited to case presentations. The causative gene and underlying pathophysiology are largely unknown. We present the results of molecular genetic analysis of 116 individuals including 25 GPS patients from 14 independent families as well as novel clinical data on the natural history of the disease. The mode of inheritance was autosomal recessive (AR) in 11 and indeterminate in 3 families. Using genome-wide linkage analysis, we mapped the AR-GPS gene to a 9.4-Mb interval on 3p21.1-3p22.1, containing 197 protein-coding genes. Sequencing of 1423 (69%) of the 2075 exons in the interval did not identify the GPS gene. Long-term follow-up data demonstrated the progressive nature of the thrombocytopenia and myelofibrosis of GPS resulting in fatal hemorrhages in some patients. We identified high serum vitamin B12 as a consistent, novel finding in GPS. Chromosome 3p21.1-3p22.1 has not been previously linked to a platelet disorder; identification of the GPS gene will likely lead to the discovery of novel components of platelet organelle biogenesis. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00069680 and NCT00369421.
Effect of experimental treatment on GAPDH mRNA expression as a housekeeping gene in human diploid fibroblasts
Authors: Zainuddin Azalina , Chua Kien Hui , Rahim Norhazira Abdul , Makpol Suzana
Published: August 2010

Background

Several genes have been used as housekeeping genes and choosing an appropriate reference gene is important for accurate quantitative RNA expression in real time RT-PCR technique. The expression levels of reference genes should remain constant between the cells of different tissues and under different experimental conditions. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of different experimental treatments on the expression of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) mRNA so that the reliability of GAPDH as reference gene for quantitative real time RT-PCR in human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs) can be validated. HDFs in 4 different treatment groups viz; young (passage 4), senescent (passage 30), H2O2-induced oxidative stress and γ-tocotrienol (GTT)-treated groups were harvested for total RNA extraction. Total RNA concentration and purity were determined prior to GAPDH mRNA quantification. Standard curve of GAPDH expression in serial diluted total RNA, melting curve analysis and agarose gel electrophoresis were used to determine the reliability of GAPDH as reference gene.

Results

HDFs with different experimental treatments exhibited diverse cell morphology with different expression of senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA β-gal) activity. However the expression level of GAPDH was consistent in all treatment groups.

Conclusion

The study demonstrated that GAPDH is reliable as reference gene for quantitative gene expression analysis in HDFs. Therefore it can be used as housekeeping gene for quantitative real time RT-PCR technique in human diploid fibroblasts particularly in studying cellular senescence.
Acute-on-chronic liver failure due to thiamazole in a patient with hyperthyroidism and trilogy of Fallot: case report
Authors: Shen Chuan , Zhao Cai-Yan , Liu Fang , Wang Ya-Dong , Yu Jun
Published: August 2010

Background

Thiamazole is a widely used antithyroid agent that has been approved for the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Although thiamazole-induced hepatotoxicity is a main side effect, it may progress to liver failure in a very few cases.

Case Presentation

We described a 24-year-old patient with hyperthyroidism and trilogy of Fallot, who developed liver failure due to thiamazole. Liver biopsy showed intrahepatic cholestasis, mild inflammatory infiltrates, as well as significant fibrosis, indicating both acute and chronic liver injuries. Although a series of potent therapies were given, the patient deceased due to severe liver decompensation.

Conclusions

This case suggests that thiamazole-induced hepatotoxicity in the setting of advanced fibrosis increases the risk of poor outcome. Regular liver function monitoring during thiamazole therapy is therefore important.
ReCGiP, a database of reproduction candidate genes in pigs based on bibliomics
Authors: Yang Lun , Zhang Xiangzhe , Chen Jian , Wang Qishan , Wang Lishan , Jiang Yue , Pan Yuchun
Published: August 2010

Background

Reproduction in pigs is one of the most economically important traits. To improve the reproductive performances, numerous studies have focused on the identification of candidate genes. However, it is hard for one to read all literatures thoroughly to get information. So we have developed a database providing candidate genes for reproductive researches in pig by mining and processing existing biological literatures in human and pigs, named as ReCGiP.

Description

Based on text-mining and comparative genomics, ReCGiP presents diverse information of reproduction-relevant genes in human and pig. The genes were sorted by the degree of relevance with the reproduction topics and were visualized in a gene's co-occurrence network where two genes were connected if they were co-cited in a PubMed abstract. The 'hub' genes which had more 'neighbors' were thought to be have more important functions and could be identified by the user in their web browser. In addition, ReCGiP provided integrated GO annotation, OMIM and biological pathway information collected from the Internet. Both pig and human gene information can be found in the database, which is now available.

Conclusions

ReCGiP is a unique database providing information on reproduction related genes for pig. It can be used in the area of the molecular genetics, the genetic linkage map, and the breeding of the pig and other livestock. Moreover, it can be used as a reference for human reproduction research.