bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical Review of Oral Antihyperglycemic Agents for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Koski Renee Rae
Published: November 2006

This article gives a practical review of the pharmacology, clinical efficacy, safety, dosing, cost, and place in therapy for oral antihyperglycemic agents used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. There are 5 classes of oral antihyperglycemic agents available in the United States: sulfonylurea secretagogues, biguanides, α-glucosidase inhibitors, thiazolidinediones, and nonsulfonylurea secretagogues. These agents have distinct characteristics that help in their selection for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Symptom Interpretation in Women With Diabetes and Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Mayer Dorothy “Dale” , Rosenfeld Anne
Published: November 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the role of diabetes in acute myocardial infarction (MI) symptom interpretation.

Methods

This is a secondary data analysis of a study of treatment-seeking delay in women with acute MI (N = 52). This study included a subsample of those with diabetes (n = 16). Women were interviewed while hospitalized with MI about their actions, thoughts, and feelings from symptom onset to entry into the health care system. Qualitative description was the method of analysis.

Results

Three major themes were identified in the qualitative data: diabetes and decision making, presenting symptoms, and symptom attribution. Not all women included information about diabetes in their story, but those who checked blood sugars generally found it to be elevated. Diabetes was a factor in decision making for more than half of the sample. Presenting symptoms were variable but raised hypotheses about shortness of breath as a common presenting symptom for women with diabetes and MI. The third theme, symptom attribution, revealed confusion as to the cause of symptoms.

Conclusions

These results provide insight into symptom interpretation in women with diabetes and MI. Women with diabetes should consider atypical symptoms such as shortness of breath, gastrointestinal symptoms, and fluctuating blood sugars as reasons to seek care. Education for women with diabetes should include action plans for how to recognize and respond to symptoms. More research on the influence of diabetes on MI symptom attribution and decision making is needed.
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes After Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Case Jayne , Willoughby Deborah , Haley-Zitlin Vivian , Maybee Pat
Published: November 2006

Purpose

The purposes of this article are to examine the epidemiology of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and subsequent type 2 diabetes, identify risk factors for the development of GDM and subsequent type 2 diabetes, discuss protocols for postpartum screening, and recommend evidence-based interventions to delay or prevent type 2 diabetes after GDM.

Methods

A review of the research literature from 1995 to 2005 concerning gestational diabetes was done using MEDLINE, CINAHL, National Institutes of Health, and American Diabetes Association internet resources. The criteria set for selection included the following: the research explored risk factors for and epidemiology of gestational diabetes, the relationship of gestational diabetes and the subsequent development of type 2 diabetes, and/or the prevention of type 2 diabetes after GDM.

Results

Women with pregnancies complicated by GDM are at increased risk for subsequent development of type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that modification of lifestyle-based risk factors including obesity, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise can delay or prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes in these women. However, there is evidence that recommended postpartum screening protocols for women with GDM are not being followed; hence, those women at high risk for type 2 diabetes are not identified, and no intervention is undertaken to reduce their risks.

Conclusions

Diabetes educators must play an integral role in increasing awareness of the need for postpartum screening and intervention for women with gestational diabetes. Only with early identification and intensive intervention can the devastating toll of diabetes be averted for many of these women.
Glucose and Cardiac Risk Factor Control in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Chyun Deborah , Lacey Kimberly O. , Katten Deborah M. , Talley Sandra , Price Wendie J. , Davey Janice A. , Melkus Gail D.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this descriptive study was to describe attainment of glucose and coronary heart disease (CHD) risk factor goals and to identify factors that were associated with successful goal achievement.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey enrolled 110 subjects with type 2 diabetes undergoing screening for asymptomatic myocardial ischemia.

Results

Many participants had HbA1c levels ≥7% (45%), and 46% to 79% were not meeting goals for CHD risk reduction. Individual factors of age, gender, and anxiety; the illness-related factor of lipid-lowering therapy; and the family-related factor of living alone were independently associated with 1 of the 7 outcomes under study. Illness-related factors of a longer duration of diabetes were strongly associated with glucose and blood pressure control, insulin use with glucose control and waist circumference, and antihypertensive use with blood pressure, triglycerides, and body mass index. Family-related factors of higher income were significantly associated with poorer glucose control and higher body mass index, while higher levels of perceived support by family and friends were associated with a lower risk of not meeting lipid goals. However, individual factors, represented by several aspects of personal model beliefs (exercising regularly, testing glucose, and checking one’s feet) and physical activity, were consistently related to lipid and weight control.

Conclusions

A variety of factors were associated with control of blood glucose and CHD risk factors, suggesting that a one-size-fits-all approach to multiple risk factor reduction efforts may not result in goal attainment.
Trends in the Prescribing of Oral Agents for the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the United States, 1990-2001
Authors: Skaer Tracy L. , Sclar David A. , Robison Linda M.
Published: November 2006

Purpose

The objectives of the present study were (1) to discern trends in the prescribing of oral pharmacotherapy for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in the United States during the years 1990 through 2001 and (2) to examine the mediating role of primary health insurance coverage on patients’ access to pharmaceutical innovation for the management of type 2 DM.

Methods

Data from the US National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) for the years 1990 through 2001 were used for this analysis.

Results

National estimates of the number of office-based visits documenting a diagnosis of type 2 DM and the prescribing of an oral medication for glycemic control increased from 7 871 283 in 1990 to 13 730 886 in 2001 (a 74.4% increase). A significantly higher proportion of patients covered by private health insurance were prescribed a newer agent, either alone or as part of a combination regimen of oral agents, as compared to patients covered by either Medicare or Medicaid (ϰ2 ≤ .001).

Conclusions

Over the time frame of 1995 through 2001, access to pharmaceutical innovation for the management of type 2 DM was mediated by the patient’s primary source of health insurance coverage. Future research will need to discern the effect of observed differences in the prescribing of oral agents for the management of type 2 DM on both clinical and economic outcomes and, in light of ongoing discussion regarding health care reform in the United States, to foster clinically rational and equitable access to pharmaceutical innovation.
Improving Access to Quality Diabetes Education in a Rural State
Authors: Butcher Marcene K. , Gilman Judy , Meszaros Jane Fitch , Bjorsness Deb , Madison Mary , McDowall Janet M. , Oser Carrie S. , Johnson Elizabeth A. , Harwell Todd S. , Helgerson Steven D. , Gohdes Dorothy
Published: November 2006

Purpose

Diabetes self-management education (DSME) is an integral component of diabetes care; however, skilled educators and recognized programs are not uniformly available in rural communities.

Methods

To increase access to quality DSME, the Montana Diabetes Control Program and the Montana chapter of the American Association of Diabetes Educators developed a mentoring program with 3 levels: basic, intermediate, and advanced. All participants were assisted by a volunteer certified diabetes educator (CDE) mentor. In addition, the program provided technical support for recognition through the American Diabetes Association and the Indian Health Service.

Results

From 2000 to 2005, 90 individuals participated; 76% were nurses and 21% dietitians. Twenty-seven of the 90 enrollees (30%) completed their structured option, and 13 achieved CDE certification. Most provided services in frontier counties (66%). Statewide, the number of CDEs in Montana increased 46% from 52 in 2000 to 76 in 2005. Twenty-five of the 30 facilities that received technical assistance achieved recognition. Statewide, the number of recognized education programs increased from 2 in 2000 to 22 in 2005. Twelve (55%) of these programs were located in frontier counties.

Conclusions

Mentoring and technical support is an effective method to increase personnel skills for DSME and to increase access to quality education programs in rural areas.
Developing Optimal Search Strategies for Retrieving Qualitative Studies in PsycINFO
Authors: McKibbon K. Ann , Wilczynski Nancy L. , Haynes R. Brian
Published: November 2006

Researchers and practitioners have problems retrieving qualitative studies. Search strategies that can easily and effectively retrieve these studies from large databases such as PsycINFO are therefore important. To determine if search strategies can identify qualitative studies, 64 journals published in 2000 were hand searched using explicit methodological criteria to identify qualitative studies. The authors tested multiple search strategies using 4,985 potential search terms in PsycINFO (Ovid Technologies) and compared the results with the hand search data to calculate retrieval effectiveness. A total of 125 qualitative studies were identified. Single-term and multiple-term strategies had sensitivities (maximizing retrieval of qualitative studies) up to 94.4% and specificities (minimizing retrieval of nonqualitative studies and reports) up to 98.6% with ranges of precision and accuracy. Search strategies included terms that were variations of interview, qualitative, themes, and experience. Formal indexing terms performed poorly. Empirically derived search strategies combining textwords can effectively, but not perfectly, retrieve qualitative studies from PsycINFO.
Exit Interview-Consultation for Research Validation and Dissemination
Authors: Utley-Smith Queen , Bailey Donald , Ammarell Natalie , Corazzini Kirsten , Colón-Emeric Cathleen S. , Lekan-Rutledge Deborah , Piven Mary L. , Anderson Ruth A.
Published: November 2006

Dissemination of research findings to practice and maintenance of rigor and validity in qualitative research are continuing challenges for nurse researchers. Using three nursing home case studies as examples, this article describes how exit interview-consultation was used as (a) a validation strategy and (b) a rapid research dissemination tool that is particularly useful for nursing systems research. Through an exit interview-consultation method, researchers validated inferences made from qualitative and quantitative data collected in three comprehensive nursing home case studies that examined nursing management practices. This exit interview-consultation strategy extends the traditional member-check approach by providing confirmation at the individual and organizational level. The study examined how using the exit interview-consultation strategy can potentially assist nursing home organizations to increase their capacity for improving operations. Benefits from research participation are often indirect; this study's results suggest that exit interview-consultation can provide direct and immediate benefits to organizations and individuals.
Entrepreneurial Program of Research and Service to Improve Nursing Home Care
Authors: Rantz Marilyn J. , Mehr David R. , Hicks Lanis , Scott-Cawiezell Jill , Petroski Gregory F. , Madsen Richard W. , Porter Rose , Zwygart-Stauffacher Mary
Published: November 2006

This is a methodological article intended to demonstrate the integration of multiple goals, multiple projects with diverse foci, and multiple funding sources to develop an entrepreneurial program of research and service to directly affect and improve the quality of care of older adults, particularly nursing home residents. Examples that illustrate how clinical ideas build on one another and how the research ideas and results build on one another are provided. Results from one study are applied to the next and are also applied to the development of service delivery initiatives to test results in the real world. Descriptions of the Quality Improvement Program for Missouri and the Aging in Place Project are detailed to illustrate real-world application of research to practice.
Bone Stress Injuries of the Ankle and Foot
Authors: Niva Maria H. , Sormaala Markus J. , Kiuru Martti J. , Haataja Riina , Ahovuo Juhani A. , Pihlajamaki Harri K.
Published: November 2006

Background

No comprehensive studies of bone stress injuries in the ankle and foot based on magnetic resonance imaging findings have been published.

Purpose

Using magnetic resonance imaging findings to assess incidence, location, and type of bone stress injuries of the ankle and foot in military conscripts with ankle and/or foot pain.

Study Design

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

All patients with ankle or foot pain, negative findings on plain radiography, and magnetic resonance images obtained of the ankle or foot were included in this 86-month study. Magnetic resonance images with bone stress injury findings were re-evaluated regarding location and injury type. Based on the number of conscripts within the hospital catchment area, the person-based incidence of bone stress injuries was calculated.

Results

One hundred thirty-one conscripts displayed 378 bone stress injuries in 142 ankles and feet imaged, the incidence being 126 per 100 000 person-years. This incidence represents the stress injuries not diagnosable with radiographs and requiring magnetic resonance images. Of injuries, 57.7% occurred in the tarsal and 35.7% in the metatarsal bones. Multiple bone stress injuries in 1 foot were found in 63% of the cases. The calcaneus and fifth metatarsal bone were usually affected alone. Injuries to the other bones of the foot were usually associated with at least 1 other stress injury. The talus and calcaneus were the most commonly affected single bones. High-grade bone stress injury (grade IV-V) with a fracture line on magnetic resonance images occurred in 12% (talus, calcaneus), and low-grade injury (grade I-III) presented only as edema in 88% of the cases.

Conclusion

Multiple, various-stage bone stress injuries of the ankle and foot may occur simultaneously in physically active young adults. When considering injuries that were missed by plain radiographs but detected by magnetic resonance imaging, the bones most often affected were the tarsal bones, of which the talus and calcaneus were the most prominent single bones and most common locations for higher grade (IV-V) bone stress injuries. With use of magnetic resonance imaging, early detection and grading of bone stress injuries are available, which enable early and appropriate injury management.
Multiscale Analysis Including Strain Rate Dependency for Transient Response of Composite Laminated Shells
Authors: Zhu Linfa , Chattopadhyay Aditi , Goldberg Robert K.
Published: November 2006

A multiscale micro-macro numerical procedure has been developed to model the transient responses of polymeric composite shell structures. A micromechanics model which accounts for the transverse shear stress effect, the effect of strain rate dependency, and the effect of inelasticity is used for analyzing the mechanical responses of the fiber and matrix constituents. The accuracy of the micromechanics model under transverse shear loading is verified by comparison with an existing procedure. A higher-order laminated shell theory is extended to capture the inelastic deformations of the composite shell and is implemented using the finite element technique. A detailed parametric study is conducted to investigate the influence of geometry, ply stacking sequence, material models, and loading conditions on the transient response of laminated shell structures under impact loadings.
Characterization of Curing Stress Effects on Fracture Behavior of FRP Laminated Composites with Embedded Delaminations
Authors: Pradhan B. , Panda S. K.
Published: November 2006

A detailed study on the effect of curing stresses on interlaminar delamination crack growth behavior in fiber-reinforced polymeric (FRP) composites is presented. At a given applied load or displacement, the strain energy release rate distribution along the delamination front with and without considering the effects of curing stresses are compared. In this analysis, results are presented for elliptical delaminations embedded between plies of different orientations in the laminate. A full three-dimensional coupled-field finite element analysis has been conducted to study the delamination crack growth behavior due to curing stress effects. A superposition procedure along with the modified crack closure integral technique based on the concepts of linear elastic fracture mechanics is employed to evaluate the individual modes of strain energy release rates during delamination propagation. It has been observed that the residual thermal stresses developed during the curing stages in manufacturing of FRP laminated composites significantly affect the onset and growth of delamination. The asymmetric behavior of interlaminar fracture energy along the delamination front is found to depend upon the stacking sequence, neighboring ply orientation, thermoelastic anisotropy, and material heterogeneity at the interface of laminated composites.
Review and Comparison of Fracture Mechanics-based Bond Strength Models for FRP-strengthened Structures
Authors: Karbhari Vistasp M. , Niu Hedong , Sikorsky Charles
Published: November 2006

This study presents a critical review on fracture mechanics-based bond strength models related to the use of externally bonded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites in the rehabilitation of concrete. The predictions from a set of typically used bond strength models are compared with each other through a set of parametric studies. Given that the models use a diverse set of parameters, in order to enable an equitable comparison, parameters are carefully chosen as related to (a) characteristics of concrete, (b) characteristics of the FRP, and (c) characteristics related to concrete cover and epoxy mortar. The corresponding reliability and accuracy is also confirmed by comparing with test data. A comparison of some of the major models in this class with experimental data shows that the accuracy in prediction of Pmax and Le varies substantially with very few of the models actually incorporating the effects of critical bond parameters such as adhesive thickness and characteristics of the FRP–concrete interphase. Furthermore, the direct application of the results of these models into a sectional analysis provides an underestimation of the capacity of FRP-rehabilitated RC beams, with the exception of the ACI-440 approach which in most cases overpredicts results indicating its non-conservative nature. The use of procedures recommended in ACI-440 and as proposed herein are shown to provide a more accurate description, with the latter providing a means of determining the mode of failure through incorporation of the energetics of fracture interaction between cracking in concrete and redistribution of forces to the FRP. Critical aspects still needing study are also identified.
Development of the Family Nursing Practice Scale
Authors: Simpson Peggy , Tarrant Marie
Published: November 2006

This article describes the development and testing of the Family Nursing Practice Scale (FNPS). This self-report questionnaire is designed to measure perceived changes in family nursing practice including attitudes toward working with families, critical appraisal of their family nursing practice and reciprocity in the nurse-family relationship. Categories were derived from a needs assessment, competence as effective application of knowledge and skill and theoretical foundations for family assessment and intervention. Psychometric testing (content, construct validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability) was undertaken with 140 psychiatric nurses in Hong Kong. Practice appraisal and nurse-family relationships accounted for 56.4% of the variance. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients were .88 and .73 for the two subscales, respectively, and .86 for the scale overall. Test-retest reliability ranged from .62 to .93 on the individual items. The results provide preliminary evidence of the reliability and validity of the FNPS. The instrument provides quantitative and qualitative evaluation components.
Evaluating the Implementation Process
Authors: Lion Cristina , Martini Paola , Volpi Stefano
Published: November 2006

This article presents a specific analysis of programme-implementation evaluation with reference to European Social Fund (ESF) interventions. Although in recent years increasing attention has been paid to implementation processes, there is still a lack of adequate guidelines and methodologies to support this type of evaluation. Within the framework of the ESF programmes and of the Italian political-institutional context, this article analyses the main factors affecting the implementation process and considered relevant for achieving policy objectives. A case study of the Italian Objective 3 Community Support Framework process implementation evaluation is presented and the influence of three factors -actors, context and regulations -on outputs is described.
Anthropology in the middle
Authors: Knauft Bruce M.
Published: November 2006

During the last decade and a half, anthropologists have increasingly given up grand theoretical debates to pursue mid-level articulations that effectively cross many of the discipline’s received divides and oppositions. In the process, a middle ground of increasing connections cross-cuts and cross-fertilizes academic theory and applied practice, regional and local scales of analysis, world areas, general structures and specific events, ethnography and history, and objectivism vis-à-vis reflexive or experimental genres of representation and analysis. Amid continuing challenges of anthropological method and representation, these post-paradigmatic articulations have opened sociocultural anthropology to important new ranges of perspective, topical fields, and critical interventions.
Twenty-first century indigenism
Authors: Lee Richard Borshay
Published: November 2006

The late 20th century has seen a renaissance in the fortunes of indigenous people and their visibility on the world’s political agendas. But the term ‘indigenous’ covers a multitude of contradictory meanings and these are deployed in a range of contexts. This article traces the historical trajectories that have brought diverse peoples together under the banner of ‘the indigenous’, introducing the concept of Indigenous One and Indigenous Two. The article then attempts to situate these peoples politically in the current conjuncture, drawing upon the twin discourses of rights and authenticity. The article concludes with a challenge to anthropologists to support the aspirations of indigenous peoples and explore with more depth and sensitivity their political use of the concept of ‘strategic essentialism’.
Assessing dementia in people with learning disabilities
Authors: Kirk Linzi J. , Hick Rachel , Laraway Alec
Published: November 2006

As life expectancy increases for people with learning disabilities, the impact of dementia on people with learning disabilities and their families, carers and services is becoming more apparent. Psychological services for learning disabilities are receiving an increasing number of referrals requesting dementia assessment. Health and social care services are adapting to the diverse needs of an ageing population with learning disabilities. This article describes a study investigating the relationship between two assessments for dementia in people with learning disabilities. Carers of people with learning disabilities over the age of 50 (or 40 if the individual had Down syndrome) completed the Dementia Questionnaire for Mentally Retarded People and the Adaptive Behaviour Scale–Residential and Community. Overall, the two questionnaire measures showed significant relationships. However, results suggested that both assessments have clinical value in informing individual needs and aiding diagnosis. Implications for both clinical and social care services are discussed.
The experience of health and wellness in mothers of young children with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Mackey Sandra , Goddard Linda D.
Published: November 2006

Today in Australian society the majority of families who have a child with a physical or intellectual disability will take care of that child across their lifespan. Mothers bear most of the burden associated with their child's care; however, little is known about the effect fulfilling this role has on the health of the mother.This interpretive research study was conducted with the aim of enhancing understanding of the health and wellness of mothers who have a child with an intellectual disability aged 0–5 years. Interview data were collected from five women living in a rural Australian city, and analysed using qualitative techniques.The research revealed that the mothers' health is backgrounded in time, space and the physical body, because their horizon of awareness is directed toward the needs of the child with a disability.
The effectiveness of dementia care mapping in intellectual disability residential services
Authors: Jaycock Sue , Persaud Michelle , Johnson Robert
Published: November 2006

This article is presented as a follow-up to exploratory work published in this journal in 2001. It describes a study that aimed to assess the effectiveness of dementia care mapping in supporting practice improvement in intellectual disability residential services. An average of 9 hours of observational data was collected using dementia care mapping in relation to 14 adults with severe or profound intellectual disabilities. Sixteen interviews were also undertaken with staff over a 4 month period.The findings provided a detailed picture of the activities and interactions between the participants involved in the study and raised some issues about ‘organizational culture’ when developing person-centred approaches.They have helped strengthen the case that care mapping has the potential to be a useful addition to the existing repertoire of tools to support effective practice improvement and person-centred planning.
Apical Papillary Fibroelastoma
Authors: Baker Clara Angulo
Published: November 2006

A man in his early 60s presented to the emergency department with acute onset of right facial numbness and drooping, right hand and leg weakness, and slurred speech. These symptoms lasted for approximately 10 minutes and resolved spontaneously. The patient denied previous similar episodes. An echocardiogram revealed a left ventricular mass for which the patient underwent surgery. The pathology report was a papillary fibroelastoma.
Femoral Hypoplasia— Unusual Facies Syndrome
Authors: Kastanek Becky , Michael Kim
Published: November 2006

Femoral hypoplasia—unusual facies syndrome is an extremely rare form of skeletal malformations with both femoral and facial abnormalities. Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus has been reported as the main contributing factor to its development. Common sonographic findings include bilateral femoral hypoplasia and facial dysmorphism. Aside from complications due to physical limitations, most patients are able to live relatively normal lives. Several differential diagnoses can be made from sonographic findings; therefore, complete and thorough examinations must be performed by the sonographer.
Vulvar Varicosities Presenting as Bilateral Vulvar Masses in Pregnancy
Authors: Dmitrieva Julia , Dillon Evan H.
Published: November 2006

Vulvar varicosities may present during pregnancy as a vulvar mass with associated symptoms of pain and pruritis. The condition can be easily recognized with duplex sonography examination. Scanning the patient in the upright position can significantly improve the diagnosis. Visualization of dilated veins in the vulvar region with demonstration of reversal of flow during performance of the Valsalva maneuver can confirm the diagnosis. The correct diagnosis of vulvar varices can alleviate the patient's anxiety and improve the patient's quality of life during pregnancy.
Sonographic Diagnosis of Fibromatosis Colli
Authors: Penny Steven M.
Published: November 2006

Fibromatosis colli is a frequent cause of congenital muscular torticollis, a condition in which the patient suffers from a benign neck mass within the sternocleidomastoid muscle that considerably shortens the length of the affected side. The origin of fibromatosis colli has been linked to traumatic birth, intrauterine malposition, or vascular occlusion. Infants who present with fibromatosis colli often develop congenital muscular torticollis. Torticollis is described as the tilting of the head with the chin angled to the nonaffected side. Because of its low cost, lack of ionizing radiation, and the fact that no sedation is needed, sonography has proven to become the modality of choice when evaluating infants who present with a pediatric neck mass. This article offers a case report, the sonographic appearance, the suspected causes, and applicable research that may prove indispensable in achieving the sonographic diagnosis of fibromatosis colli.
Fistula in Ano
Authors: Jhobta Anupam , Kaur Ravinder , Jhobta Rajender , Dabra Ajay , Kochhar Suman
Published: November 2006

An accurate delineation of the surgical anatomy of perianal inflammatory disease is vital before surgery to prevent postoperative recurrence and incontinence. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of transperineal sonography for evaluating perianal inflammatory disease. Thirty patients (23 males and 7 females) with clinically suspected perianal inflammatory disease were imaged with transperineal sonography in males and transperineal and transvaginal sonography in females. All fluid collections, sinus tracts, and fistulae were evaluated in relation to the sphincters and perineum. Twenty-seven of the 30 patients had fistulae: 7 intersphincteric, 17 transphincteric, and 1 extrasphincteric fistula. Three patients had perianal fluid collections with sinus tracts. Preoperative sonographic findings were confirmed in 23 patients. Thirty-one internal openings seen on sonography were confirmed on surgery. The authors conclude that transperineal and transvaginal sonography are accurate and painless methods for documenting perianal inflammatory disease.
Fetal Cholelithiasis
Authors: Lariviere Michael , Having Karen , Bullock Stephani
Published: November 2006

The fetal gallbladder can be visualized on most sonographic screening examinations. After obtaining the abdominal circumference images, angling the transducer caudal along the anterior abdominal wall to the level of the umbilical cord insertion will generally bring the gallbladder into view to the right of the umbilical vein. Fetal cholelithiasis and/or sludge in the gallbladder is an uncommon sonographic finding characterized by echogenic material that may or may not produce shadowing. The likelihood of this occurrence is most prevalent in the third trimester of pregnancy. In most cases, fetal gallstones/sludge undergo spontaneous resolution within weeks or months after birth. Most investigators believe that the presence of fetal cholelithiasis or sludge does not alter fetal prognosis or obstetrical management. The finding of an echogenic mass in the abdominal region of the fetal gallbladder should prompt the sonographer to consider sludge and/or gallstones, albeit uncommon, as a possible explanation.
Primary Acalvaria
Authors: Raines Cherie
Published: November 2006

This case study describes primary acalvaria, which is a rare congenital postneurulation anomaly. The flat bones of the cranium, dura mater, and associated scalp muscles are absent. The skull base and facial features are fully formed and usually appear normal. The brain matter is complete but is abnormally developed. The cerebral hemispheres with their gyri and sulci can be well visualized due to the lack of bone attenuation. This diagnosis can be distinguished from other neural tube defects, such as exencephaly, by the presence of a skin layer overlying the brain matter. There are no current surgical treatments for this pathology, and there are no preventive measures known at this time. Early diagnosis is critical to allow for better pregnancy management.
A model of Fe3+-kaolinite, Al3+-goethite, Al3+-hematite equilibria in laterites
Authors: Trolard F. , Tardy Y.
Published: November 2006

The distribution of Fe3+-kaolinite, Al-goethite and Al-hematite and their contents of Fe and Al in bauxites and ferricretes are controlled by water activity, dissolved silica activity, temperature and particle size. The proposed model, based on ideal solid-solution equilibria in the Fe2O3-Al2O3-SiO2-H2O system, takes into account water and silica activities. By using the same considerations as those previously developed for the Fe2O3-Al2O3-H2O system, the model calculates the amounts of coexisting phases, Al or Fe substitution ratios in goethite, hematite or kaolinite, and the stability field distributions of the minerals under various conditions. Thermodynamic equilibrium conditions and element distributions within the mineral constituents are shown to be dependent on the parameters cited above. The model yields results compatible with natural observations on lateritic profiles.
Rare earth distribution and its correlation with clay mineralogy in the clay-sized fraction of Cretaceous and Pliocene sediments (central Portugal)
Authors: Prudêncio M. I. , Figueiredo M. O. , Cabral J. M. P.
Published: November 2006

The REE contents in the clay-sized fractions of nineteen Cretaceous and Pliocene continental sediments, Portugal, were found to be correlated with kaolinite. No correlation is apparent between clay mineralogy and La/Lu or Eu/Sm ratios. The Eu anomaly is generally smaller (or even absent) in the clay-sized fraction than in the corresponding whole sediment, probably due to a greater ability of the clay minerals to accommodate Eu (as Eu2+) rather than the other REE released during weathering.
Differential heat of water adsorption for montmorillonite, kaolinite and allophane
Authors: Iwata S. , Izumi F. , Tsukamoto A.
Published: November 2006

Differential heat of water vapour adsorption for Cs+-saturated montmorillonite, kaolinite and allophane was measured over a low relative humidity range from 10−4 to 10−1. Two interactions (clay surface atom-water and counterion-water) are mainly involved in the water vapour adsorption process. To assess the affinity of water to the clay surface, the amounts of adsorbed water and the differential heat due to Cs+ were estimated from equilibrium constants in the gas phase reactions. It is tentatively concluded that (i) a dominant role of water adsorption due to the Cs+-water interaction in the adsorption process is evident only for montmorillonite; (ii) the affinity of water to the clay surface is strongest for allophane and weakest for montmorillonite.
Bayerite, Al(OH)3, from Raoul Island, Kermadec Group, South Pacific
Authors: Rodgers K. A. , Gregory M. R. , Cooney R. P.
Published: November 2006

Bayerite forms a cascading, travertine-like deposit over volcanic tuffs on Raoul Island in the South Pacific where it is produced from episodic discharge of spent, caustic aluminate solutions from a hydrogen generator. Textural evidence indicates microbial activity has possibly been involved in formation of the hydroxide, as well as sodium carbonate aluminate, present in minor amounts. X-ray powder diffraction and infrared spectral studies failed to give confident identification of the bayerite, the identity being confirmed by laser Raman spectroscopy. A high quality spectrum was obtained extending from 3280 to 3680 cm−1 and from 100 to 1000 cm−1.
Glutamic acid deamination in the presence of montmorillonite
Authors: Naidja A. , Siffert B.
Published: November 2006

Glutamic acid deamination was realized in the absence and in the presence of montmorillonite saturated with various metallic cations (Na+, Mn2+, Cu2+). The catalytic activity depends upon the interlayer exchangeable cation and the pH of the suspension. A maximum was observed near pH = 5–6. In the presence of the enzyme l-glutamate dehydrogenase and the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, glutamic acid transforms into α-ketoglutaric acid, but in the presence of montmorillonite, it yields α-hydroxyglutaric acid and traces of butyric acid. However, kinetic and reaction yield are significantly reduced compared to the biological system.
Composition, stabilization, and light absorption of Fe(II)Fe(III) hydroxy-carbonate (‘green rust’)
Authors: Hansen H. C. B.
Published: November 2006

The chemical composition of the pyroaurite-type compound Fe(II)Fe(III) hydroxy-carbonate (‘green rust’) synthesised from freshly precipitated ferrihydrite and Fe(II) chloride solution at pH 7.0 (‘induced hydrolysis’) was determined. The compound was nearly stoichiometric, with the formula the Fe(II):Fe(III) ratio being independent of the Fe(II):Fe(III) ratio in the initial reaction mixture. It shows all the XRD peaks reported for this compound. Visible-near IR shows a broad peak at 650 nm which is ascribable to intervalence charge transfer and therefore the absorbance maximum decreases with increasing degree of oxidation. Wetting the material with compounds containing hydroxyl groups (such as glycerol or glucose) retards the oxidation of the otherwise very oxidation-sensitive compound. Similar polar organic compounds may stabilize the Fe(II)Fe(III) hydroxy-carbonate in wet soils. The importance of the green rust phase as an intermediate in the formation and transformation reactions of oxides and oxyhydroxides of iron in natural environments should not be ignored.
Clay mineral distribution related to rift activity, sea-level changes and paleoceanography in the Cretaceous of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Thiry M. , Jacquin T.
Published: November 2006

The distribution of clay minerals from the N and S Atlantic Cretaceous deep-sea sediments is related to rifting, sea-floor spreading, sea-level variations and paleoceanography. Four main clay mineral suites were identified: two are inherited and indicative of ocean geodynamics, whereas the others result from transformation and authigenesis and are diagnostic of Cretaceous oceanic depositional environments. Illite and chlorite, together with interstratified illite-smectite and smectite occur above the sea-floor basalts and illustrate the contribution of volcanoclastic materials of basaltic origin to the sediments. Kaolinite, with variable amounts of illite, chlorite, smectite and interstratified minerals, indicates detrital inputs from continents near the platform margins. Kaolinite decreases upward in the series due to open marine environments and basin deepening. It may increase in volume during specific time intervals corresponding to periods of falling sea-level during which overall facies regression and erosion of the surrounding platforms occurred. Smectite is the most abundant clay mineral in the Cretaceous deep-sea sediments. Smectite-rich deposits correlate with periods of relatively low sedimentation rates. As paleoweathering profiles and basal deposits at the bottom of Cretaceous transgressive formations are mostly kaolinitic, smectite cannot have been inherited from the continents. Smectite is therefore believed to have formed in the ocean by transformation and recrystallization of detrital materials during early diagenesis. Because of the slow rate of silicate reactions, transformation of clay minerals requires a long residence time of the particles at the water/sediment interface; this explains the relationships between the observed increases in smectite with long-term sea-level rises that tend to starve the basinal settings of sedimentation. Palygorskite, along with dolomite, is relatively common in the N and S Atlantic Cretaceous sediments. It is not detrital because correlative shelf deposits are devoid of palygorskite. Palygorskite is diagnostic of Mg-rich environments and is indicative of the warm and hypersaline bottom waters of the Cretaceous Atlantic ocean.
Palygorskite in the recent fluvio-lacustrine and deltaic sediments of southern Mesopotamia
Authors: Aqrawi A. A. M.
Published: November 2006

Palygorskite has been widely reported as a clay phase in the Recent sediments of the northern Arabian Gulf (e.g. Aqrawi & Sadooni, 1988). It is usually thought to have originated from the sediments and soils of the Mesopotamian flood plains introduced by northwesterly (Shamal) winds (e.g. A1-Bakri et al., 1984). A1-Rawi et al. (1969) and Eswaran & Barzanji (1974) have detected palygorskite within Mesopotamian soils. This paper describes the occurrence of palygorskite in the Recent sediments of southern Mesopotamia and its possible origins will be discussed.
Local Structure of Ferrihydrite and Feroxyhite by Exafs Spectroscopy
Authors: Manceau A. , Drits V. A.
Published: November 2006

Synthetic 2-line and 6-line ferrihydrite and feroxyhite samples prepared from ferric salt solutions have been investigated by EXAFS spectroscopy. All these materials have been found to be short-range ordered, consisting of Fe octahedra linked by comers, edges, and faces. Their local structures are related to those of well-crystallized (oxyhydr)oxides, and the absence of hkl reflections in some samples is attributed to the small size of coherent scattering domains. The presence of face sharings indicates that these materials have structural similarities with hematite. Based on Fe-Fe distances and the analysis of the static disorder, it has been concluded that the local structure of feroxyhite is close to that of hematite, whereas ferrihydrite has common structural features with both hematite (αFe203) and cdβFeOOFI. The local structure of ferrihydrite thus differs from that of aqueous Fe polymers obtained by the partial hydrolysis of ferric nitrate and chloride solutions. Differences of local structures among hydrous Fe oxides and aqueous polymers have been interpreted on the basis of a room temperature stability phase diagram established for well-crystallized (oxyhydr)oxides.
Structure of Feroxyhite as Determined by Simulation of X-Ray Diffraction Curves
Authors: Drits V. A. , Sakharov B. A. , Manceau A.
Published: November 2006

Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) curves were calculated for the different structural models so far proposed for feroxyhite (δFeOOH). The influence on XRD features of different structural parameters, including site occupancy of Fe atoms, atomic coordinates, content and distribution of stacking faults, and dimension of coherent scattering domains, were considered. On the basis of agreement between experimental and simulated curves it is shown that δFeOOH is a mixture of feroxyhite proper and ultradispersed hematite in the 9 : 1 volume ratio. Feroxyhite proper consists of hexagonal close packing of anions containing 5% stacking faults. Iron atoms occupy only octahedral sites and are distributed in such a way that face-sharing filled octahedral pairs regularly alternate with vacant octahedral pairs along the c axis. This distribution of Fe atoms is quite similar to that established by Patrat et al. (1983), but in each pair, Fe atoms are displaced by the same value of 0.3 Å in opposite directions away from the centre of their octahedron. Nearest Fe-Fe distances calculated for the model proposed (2.88, 3.01, 3-39 and 3-73 Å) practically coincide with those found by EXAFS spectroscopy for the same sample (2-91, 3.04, 3.41 and 3.7-3.8 Å).
Smectite to Illite Conversion in Bentonites and Shales of the East Slovak Basin
Authors: Šucha V. , Kraust I. , Gerthofferová H. , Peteš J. , Sereková M.
Published: November 2006

The conversion of smectite to illite has been studied in buried bentonites and shales of the East Slovak Neogene Basin, using X-ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy. A good correlation was observed in both rock types between the content of expandable layers in interstratified illite-smectite (I-S) minerals and burial depth (temperature), with shales from a given depth being markedly more illitic than bentonties. This difference disappeared at a depth of ~3 km, which represents a temperature of ~150°C The diameter of fundamental illite particles increased with decreasing expandability. Potassium fixation together with neoformation appear to be the mechanisms of conversion of smectite to illite.
Lithium-Bearing Hydrothermal Alteration Phyllosilicates Related to Portalet Fluorite Ore (Pyrenees, Huesca, Spain)
Authors: Gonzlez Lopez J. M. , Subias Pirez I. , Fernandez-Nieto C. , Gonzalez I. Fanlo
Published: November 2006

Phyllosilicate associations in hydrothermally altered fluorite ore bodies are: Li-chlorite ± pyrophyllite ± interstratified minerals ± muscovite +± kaolinite. Chlorites, the main alteration minerals, are dioctahedral, d060 = 1.489-1-490/~,, of Ia polytype. The structural formulae indicate substitution of AI for Si from 0.61-0.78 atoms. The total octahedral occupancy ranges from 4.52-4-71 atoms, with 0.49-0-69 Li atoms per half cell unit. This composition indicates that the chlorites are intermediate members of the donbassite-cookeite series proposed by Sudo (1978). The mineralogical associations and textural relations suggest that after intensive silicification which produced alkali alteration under acid conditions, pyrophyllite was produced at the expense of muscovite and then Li-bearing donbassite formed from the pyrophyllite. The Li needed for the formation of the chlorites could be genetically related to granitic batholiths which occur close to the fluorite ores.