bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substrate and Procedural Predictors of Outcomes After Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: BUNCH T. JARED , MUNGER THOMAS M , FRIEDMAN PAUL A , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J , BRADY PETER A , CHA YONG‐MEI , REA ROBERT F , SHEN WIN‐KUANG , POWELL BRIAN D , OMMEN STEVE R , MONAHAN KRISTI H. , HAROLDSON JANIS M , PACKER DOUGLAS L
Published: May 2008

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is often accompanied by atrial fibrillation (AF) due to diastolic dysfunction, elevated left atrial pressure, and enlargement. Although catheter ablation for drug‐refractory AF is an effective treatment, the efficacy in HCM remains to be established.

Methods: Thirty‐three consecutive patients (25 male, age 51 ± 11 years) with HCM underwent pulmonary vein (PV) isolation (n = 8) or wide area circumferential ablation with additional linear ablation (n = 25) for drug‐refractory AF. Twelve‐lead and 24‐hour ambulating ECGs, echocardiograms, event monitor strips, and SF 36 quality of life (QOL) surveys were obtained before ablation and for routine follow‐up.

Results: Twenty‐one (64%) patients had paroxysmal AF and 12 (36%) had persistent/permanent AF for 6.2 ± 5.2 years. The average ejection fraction was 0.63 ± 0.12. The average left atrial volume index was 70 ± 24 mL/m2. Over a follow‐up of 1.5 ± 1.2 years, 1‐year survival with AF elimination was 62%(Confidence Interval [CI]: 66‐84) and with AF control was 75%(CI: 66‐84). AF control was less likely in patients with a persistent/chronic AF, larger left atrial volumes, and more advanced diastolic disease. Additional linear ablation may improve outcomes in patient with severe left atrial enlargement and more advanced diastolic dysfunction. Two patients had a periprocedureal TIA, one PV stenosis, and one died after mitral valve replacement from prosthetic valve thrombosis. QOL scores improved from baseline at 3 and 12 months.

Conclusion: Outcomes after AF ablation in patients with HCM are favorable. Diastolic dysfunction, left atrial enlargement, and AF subtype influence outcomes. Future studies of rhythm management approaches in HCM patients are required to clarify the optimal clinical approach.
Clinical Use of Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation
Authors: VEST JOHN A. , SEILER JENS , STEVENSON WILLIAM G.
Published: May 2008

Irrigated (cooled) radiofrequency (RF) ablation has become our primary ablation tool for treating atrial fibrillation, macroreentrant atrial tachycardias, and scar‐related ventricular tachycardias. As with any technology that increases ablation lesion size, there is the potential for increased risk. The methods described are a cautious approach to power titration that considers the risks of excessive heating and the lesion size needed for a particular site. Future methods of assessing lesion creation will hopefully refine energy titration to improve safety and efficacy of cooled RF ablation.
β1 and β2‐Adrenergic Receptor Polymorphisms and Idiopathic Ventricular Arrhythmias
Authors: ULUCAN CEM , CETINTAS VILDAN , TETIK ASLI , EROGLU ZUHAL , KAYIKCIOGLU MERAL , CAN LEVENT H. , PAYZIN SERDAR , AYDIN MEHMET , HASDEMIR CAN
Published: May 2008

Introduction:
Idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias commonly refer to ventricular tachycardia (VT) and/or frequent/monomorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVC) in patients with structurally normal heart. Activation of sympathetic tone has been shown to play an important role in the provocation and maintenance of these arrhythmias. We investigated whether common single nucleotide polymorphisms in the β1 and β2‐adrenergic receptors are associated with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias.

Methods:
A total of 143 unrelated patients presenting with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias were prospectively included in a case‐control association study. Patient population was matched by age and gender to the unrelated, healthy control subjects (N = 307). All study subjects were of Turkish (Anatolian Caucasian) descent. Allele and genotype frequencies of the Gly389Arg and Ser49Gly polymorphisms of the β1‐adrenergic receptor and Arg16Gly, Gln27Glu, and Thr164Ile polymorphisms of the β2‐adrenergic receptor were compared between patient population and control subjects. The genotype frequencies were in Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium.

Results:
Patients with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias had higher frequency of Arg389Arg genotype (22.4% vs 1.6%, P < 0.001), Arg389Gly49 (5.24% vs 0.73%, P = 0.005), and Arg389Ser49 (36.7% vs 13.6%, P < 0.001) haplotypes of the β1‐adrenergic receptor, and higher frequency of Gly16Gly (31.5% vs 13.4%, P < 0.001), Glu27Glu genotypes (18.2% vs 10.1%, P = 0.006) and Gly16Gln27Thr164 (15.3% vs 7.4%, P = 0.002), Gly16Glu27Thr164 (13.1% vs 7%, P = 0.004), and Gly16Glu27Ile164 (13.2% vs 6%, P = 0.002) haplotypes of the β2‐adrenergic receptor compared to control subjects.

Conclusion:
Our data suggest that common single nucleotide polymorphisms in the β1 and β2‐adrenergic receptors are significantly associated with idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias in Turkish population.
Effect of Ranolazine on Ventricular Vulnerability and Defibrillation Threshold in the Intact Porcine Heart
Authors: KUMAR KAPIL , NEARING BRUCE D. , BARTOLI CARLO R , KWAKU KEVIN F , BELARDINELLI LUIZ , VERRIER RICHARD L
Published: May 2008

Introduction: Extensive in vitro studies and clinical evidence (MERLIN trial) indicate an antiarrhythmic potential of ranolazine, a novel antianginal agent. Programmed electrophysiologic testing was performed to quantify ranolazine's effects on ventricular vulnerability and defibrillation thresholds and to gain insights into mechanisms.

Methods and Results:
Effects of ranolazine (9.2 ± 2.1 μM, plasma level) on surface ECG, right ventricular effective refractory period (ERP), and repetitive extrasystole (RE), ventricular fibrillation (VF), and defibrillation (DFT) thresholds were determined in 29 normal closed‐chest anesthetized pigs. The single extrastimulus method was employed for ERP and for RE and VF thresholds. DFT50 was determined using an up‐down testing protocol with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator. Ranolazine increased rate‐corrected QT interval from 490 ± 30 to 527 ± 24 ms (P < 0.05) but did not alter Tpeak‐Tend interval (59 ± 8 to 62 ± 11, P = 0.65). ERP increased by 40 ± 6 ms (P < 0.001). Compared with baseline, ranolazine raised RE threshold from 20 ± 6 to 34 ± 9 mA (P < 0.001) and VF threshold from 38 ± 4 to 48 ± 10 mA (P < 0.05). DFT50 was unchanged (baseline: 14 ± 2 J; ranolazine: 14 ± 2 J; P = 0.6), whereas diastolic pacing threshold increased from baseline pulse width of 0.07 ± 0.03 to 0.17 ± 0.07 ms (P < 0.01) with 1V pulse amplitude.

Conclusions:
Ranolazine, at therapeutic concentrations, produces a mild increase in QT interval and a marked increase in both RE and VF thresholds. Thus, ranolazine does not augment and may improve dispersion of ventricular repolarization, suggesting a potential antiarrhythmic action. Ranolazine is unlikely to affect the margin of safety of defibrillation, given no significant effect on DFT, but could result in a mild increase in pacing threshold.
The Use of Water as a Medium for Altered States of Consciousness in Early Jewish Mysticism: A Cross‐Disciplinary Analysis
Authors: DENNIS GEOFFREY W.
Published: May 2008

This article combines the disciplines of textual/linguistic analysis, anthropology, and perceptual psychology to examine selected ancient Jewish mystical texts that claim to describe the praxis for ascents into heaven and encounters with angelic spirits in order to reconstruct the psychosocial context of these literary works. Specifically, the article examines Hekhalot or “Divine Palaces” texts that deal with hydromancy, giving attention to their mythic–symbolic assumptions, their described preparatory and triggering rituals, and their accounts of the ASC (altered states of consciousness) visions resulting from these rituals that are experienced by the practitioners. The article suggests that these accounts correlate with ASC practices identified in the literature and additionally suggests that although the mystical texts are written to resemble biblical accounts of revelatory experiences, the texts under consideration are more than works of fabulous imagination; they are literary artifacts of an actual ecstatic ASC praxis among the Jews of Late Antiquity.
Visualization of Latent Fingerprint Corrosion of Metallic Surfaces
Authors: Bond John W.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Chemical reactions between latent fingerprints and a variety of metal surfaces are investigated by heating the metal up to temperatures of ∼600°C after deposition of the fingerprint. Ionic salts present in the fingerprint residue corrode the metal surface to produce an image of the fingerprint that is both durable and resistant to cleaning of the metal. The degree of fingerprint enhancement appears independent of the elapsed time between deposition and heating but is very dependent on both the composition of the metal and the level of salt secretion by the fingerprint donor. Results are presented that show practical applications for the enhancement to fingerprints deposited in arson crime scenes, contaminated by spray painting, or deposited on brass cartridge cases prior to discharge. The corrosion of the metal surface is further exploited by the demonstration of a novel technique for fingerprint enhancement based on the electrostatic charging of the metal and then the preferential adherence of a metallic powder to the corroded part of the metal surface.
The Influence of Footwear Sole Hardness on Slip Initiation in Young Adults*
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Ju , Powers Christopher M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  Slips occur when the friction demand of an individual exceeds the friction available from the shoe/floor interface. Shoe sole hardness is one of the factors thought to influence friction demand and available friction. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of footwear sole hardness on the probability of slip initiation. Forty young adults were randomized into a hard or soft sole group. Slip events during the slippery floor trials were documented using a motion analysis system. The proportion of slip events in the hard sole group was greater than that in the soft sole group. The difference between utilized and available friction accurately predicted 90% of slip outcomes. Our data support the premise that individuals wearing shoes with harder soles are at greater risk for slipping. The results of this study suggest that shoe sole hardness should be considered when designing footwear aimed at decreasing slip risk.
Development of the Supernormality Scale‐Revised and Its Relationship with Psychopathy
Authors: Cima Maaike , Van Bergen Saskia , Kremer Karl
Published: May 2008

Abstract:  The current research addresses the psychometric and diagnostic qualities of the Supernormality Scale‐Revised (SS‐R), a self‐report measurement. Supernormality is defined as the tendency to systematically deny the presence of common symptoms (e.g., intrusive thoughts). In study 1, the SS‐R was administered to forensic patients (n = 63), psychiatric patients (n = 26), honestly responding students (n = 26), and students instructed to fake supernormality (n = 20). Findings indicated good test–retest stability, and adequate internal consistency. Furthermore, the SS‐R showed overall good predictive and convergent validity. Moreover, the diagnostic accuracy was excellent (sensitivity and specificity being 0.80 and 0.92, respectively). In study 2, 115 (healthy) controls and 32 forensic patients completed the SS‐R and the Psychopathic Personality Inventory (PPI) (J Pers Assess 1996;66:488), an instrument measuring psychopathy. Results showed again that the SS‐R is a reliable and valid instrument. However, supernormality was not related to psychopathy as measured by the PPI.
Glycinergic tonic inhibition of hippocampal neurons with depolarizing GABAergic transmission elicits histopathological signs of temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Eichler Sabrina A. , Kirischuk Sergei , Jüttner René , Schafermeier Philipp K. , Legendre Pascal , Lehmann Thomas‐Nicolas , Gloveli Tengis , Grantyn Rosemarie , Meier Jochen C.
Published: May 2008

An increasing number of epilepsy patients are afflicted with drug‐resistant temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and require alternative therapeutic approaches. High‐affinity glycine receptors (haGlyRs) are functionally adapted to tonic inhibition due to their response to hippocampal ambient glycine, and their synthesis is activity‐dependent. Therefore, in our study, we scanned TLE hippocampectomies for expression of haGlyRs and characterized the effects mediated by these receptors using primary hippocampal neurons. Increased haGlyR expression occurred in TLE hippocampi obtained from patients with a severe course of disease. Furthermore, in TLE patients, haGlyR and potassium chloride cotransporter 2 (KCC2) expressions were inversely regulated. To examine this potential causal relationship with respect to TLE histopathology, we established a hippocampal cell culture system utilising tonic inhibition mediated by haGlyRs in response to hippocam‐pal ambient glycine and in the context of a high Cl equilibrium potential, as is the case in TLE hippocampal neurons. We showed that hypoactive neurons increase their ratio between glutamatergic and GABAergic synapses, reduce their dendrite length and finally undergo excitotoxicity. Pharmacological dissection of the underlying processes revealed ionotropic glutamate and TrkB receptors as critical mediators between neuronal hypoactivity and the emergence of these TLE‐characteristic histopathological signs. Moreover, our results indicate a beneficial role for KCC2, because decreasing the Cl− equilibrium potential by KCC2 expression also rescued hypoactive hippocampal neurons. Thus, our data support a causal relationship between increased haGlyR expression and the emergence of histopathological TLE‐characteristic signs, and they establish a pathophysiological role for neuronal hypoactivity in the context of a high Cl− equilibrium potential.
Impulse conduction and gap junctional remodelling by endothelin‐1 in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes
Authors: Reisner Y. , Meiry G. , Zeevi‐Levin N. , Barac D. Y. , Reiter I. , Abassi Z. , Ziv N. , Kostin S. , Schaper J. , Rosen M. R. , Binah O.
Published: May 2008

Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is an important contributor to ventricular hypertrophy and failure, which are associated with arrhythmogenesis and sudden death. To elucidate the mechanism(s) underlying the arrhythmogenic effects of ET‐1 we tested the hypothesis that long‐term (24 hrs) exposure to ET‐1 impairs impulse conduction in cultures of neonatal rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM). NRVM were seeded on micro‐electrode‐arrays (MEAs, Multi Channel Systems, Reutlingen, Germany) and exposed to 50 nM ET‐1 for 24 hrs. Hypertrophy was assessed by morphological and molecular methods. Consecutive recordings of paced activation times from the same cultures were conducted at baseline and after 3, 6 and 24 hrs, and activation maps for each time period constructed. Gap junctional Cx43 expression was assessed using Western blot and confocal microscopy of immunofluorescence staining using anti‐Cx43 antibodies. ET‐1 caused hypertrophy as indicated by a 70% increase in mRNA for atrial natriuretic peptide (P < 0.05), and increased cell areas (P < 0.05) compared to control. ET‐1 also caused a time‐dependent decrease in conduction velocity that was evident after 3 hrs of exposure to ET‐1, and was augmented at 24 hrs, compared to controls (P < 0.01). ET‐1 increased total Cx43 protein by ∼40% (P < 0.05) without affecting non‐ phosphorylated Cx43 (NP‐Cx43) protein expression. Quantitative confocal microscopy showed a ∼30% decrease in the Cx43 immunofluorescence per field in the ET‐1 group (P < 0.05) and a reduced field stain intensity (P < 0.05), compared to controls. ET‐1‐induced hypertrophy was accompanied by reduction in conduction velocity and gap junctional remodelling. The reduction in conduction velocity may play a role in ET‐1 induced susceptibility to arrhythmogenesis.
The Vaccinia Virus F11L Gene Product Facilitates Cell Detachment and Promotes Migration
Authors: Morales Ivonne , Carbajal Maria Alejandra , Bohn Stefan , Holzer Daniela , Kato Sayuri E. M. , Greco Frederico A. B. , Moussatché Nissin , Krijnse Locker Jacomine
Published: May 2008

We previously showed that infection with vaccinia virus (VV) induces cell motility, characterized by contractility and directed migration. Motility is temporally regulated because cells are motile immediately after infection, whereas late in infection motility ceases and cells resettle. Motility and its cessation are accompanied by temporal rearrangements of both the microtubule and the actin networks. Because the F11L gene has previously been implicated in VV‐induced migration, we now explore the role of F11L in contractility, migration, the cessation of motility and the cytoskeletal rearrangements. By live cell imaging using a VV that lacks an intact F11L gene, we show that F11L facilitates cell detachment and is required for migration but not for contractility. By light microscopy, F11L expression induces a remodeling of the actin, but not the microtubule, network. The lack of migration correlates with smaller plaques, indicating that this process facilitates cell‐to‐cell spreading of VV. Late in infection, when motility ceases, cells re‐establish cell‐to‐cell contacts in an F11L‐independent manner. We finally show that VV‐induced motility and its cessation correlate with a temporal regulation of the guanosine triphosphatase RhoA as well as the expression levels of F11L during the infectious cycle.
Simultaneous Transport of Different Localized mRNA Species Revealed by Live‐Cell Imaging
Authors: Lange Susanne , Katayama Yoshihiko , Schmid Maria , Burkacky Ondrej , Bräuchle Christoph , Lamb Don C. , Jansen Ralf‐Peter
Published: May 2008

Intracellular mRNA localization is a common mechanism to achieve asymmetric distributions of proteins. Previous studies have revealed that in a number of cell types, different mRNA species are localized by the same transport machinery. However, it has been unclear if these individual mRNA species are specifically sorted into separate or common ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particles before or during transport. Using budding yeast as a model system, we analyzed the intracellular movement of individual pairs of localized mRNA in live cells. Yeast cells localize more than 20 different mRNAs to the bud with the help of the Myo4p/She3p/She2p protein complex. For live cell imaging, mRNA pairs were tagged with tandem repeats of either bacteriophage MS2 or lambda boxB RNA sequences and fluorescently labeled by fusion protein constructs that bind to the RNA tag sequences. Using three‐dimensional, single‐particle tracking with dual‐color detection, we have tracked the transport of two different localized mRNA species in real time. Our observations show that different localized mRNAs are coassembled into common RNP particles and cotransported in a directional manner to the target site. Nonlocalized mRNAs or mutant mRNAs that lack functional localization signals form separate particles that are not transported to the bud. This study reveals a high degree of co‐ordination of mRNA trafficking in budding yeast.
Environmental factors associated with stress in mothers of preterm newborns
Authors: Trombini E , Surcinelli P , Piccioni A , Alessandroni R , Faldella G
Published: May 2008

Aim: In this study the effects of environmental and structural features of two different neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) settings on the time course of psychological distress in mothers of preterm infants were investigated.

Methods: Levels of psychological distress in 21 mothers of premature infants hospitalized in the NICU of the Salesi Hospital were compared with levels of psychological distress in 21 mothers of premature infants from the NICU of the Sant'Orsola Hospital at three different times during hospitalization.

Results: Data showed that mothers from the NICU of the Salesi Hospital, where there is no presence of any specialized figure and the access for parents to the unit is ruled by time schedules, reported higher levels of psychological distress than mothers from the NICU of the Sant'Orsola Hospital, characterized by the continuous presence and contact with the medical staff, which included physiotherapists and clinical psychologists, and free access to the unit for parents. Moreover, levels of psychological distress increased over time in mothers from the Salesi Hospital while levels of distress decreased or were simply maintained over time in mothers from the Sant'Orsola Hospital.

Conclusions: The present findings suggest that providing mothers with the opportunity of discussing the infant's clinical state with health professionals and receiving psychological support on a regular basis may reduce stressful feelings.
Trends in childhood mortality from 1969 to 2004 in Finland
Authors: Lantto Marjo , Renko Marjo , Uhari Matti
Published: May 2008

Aim: The aim was to evaluate the trends in childhood mortality in Finland from 1969 to 2004. We especially wanted to find out whether the decline in mortality is continuous and whether there are still deaths that could be prevented.

Methods: We analyzed mortality data obtained from the official cause of death statistics in Finland from 1969 to 2004. Annual mortality rates were calculated in proportion to those at risk of dying. Comparison of cause specific mortality rates was conducted for neonatal group and children aged 1 month to 15 years.

Results: Annual neonatal mortality declined from 11.13‰ in 1969 to 2.46‰ in 2004. The leading causes of death were perinatal disorders and congenital malformations. Mortality among children aged 1 month to 15 years declined from 0.67‰ in 1969 to 0.23‰ in 2004, with accidents the leading cause of death, although congenital malformations, tumours and haematological diseases, and infectious diseases were significant causes as well. There was a notable peak in total mortality in 2004, as 44 Finnish children died in the Asian tsunami in December of that year.

Conclusion: Childhood mortality in Finland has decreased significantly during recent decades. Prevention programmes should be directed towards reducing mortality from accidents by promoting traffic safety and ensuring a safer environment. Even though child mortality is very low in Finland at present, continued reductions can still be achieved.
An Examination of the NANDA International Taxonomy for Domain Completeness, Ontological Homogeneity, and Clinical Functionality
Authors: Von Krogh Gunn
Published: May 2008

PURPOSE.  This study aims to examine the taxonomy of NANDA International Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification 2007–2008 for domain completeness and ontological homogeneity of the hierarchical structure.

METHODS.  The taxonomy was analyzed using nursing theories representative of different paradigms and included descriptions of the theories, categorization, and systems of concepts regarding patient phenomena.

FINDINGS.  At present the taxonomy does not meet the criteria for domain completeness because the domain level is not all‐inclusive. There are also problems regarding affiliation and natural relationships between domains and class level. Furthermore, some of the concepts seem misplaced in the taxonomic structure.

CONCLUSIONS.  The taxonomy should be restructured to establish domain completeness and an appropriate ontological correspondence among domains, classes, and concepts.

HENSIKT.  Å undersøke om taksonomien til NANDA International Nursing Diagnoses: Definitions and Classification 2007–2008 dekker sykepleiens gjenstandsområde og om den hierarkiske strukturen i taksonomien er ontologisk homogen.

METODE.  Taksonomien ble analysert ved hjelp av sykepleieteorier som representerer forskjellige paradigmer i sykepleie, deres beskrivelser, kategoriseringer og begrepsbruk i forhold til pasientfenomener.

FUNN.  På nåværende tidspunkt dekker ikke taksonomien sykepleiens gjenstandsområde fullt ut fordi kategoriseringen ikke er uttømmende på domenenivå. Det er også problemer knyttet til slektskap og naturlig relasjon mellom domene‐og klassenivået i taksonomien. Videre ser noen begreper ut til å være plassert feil i taksonomien.

KONKLUSJON.  Taksonomien bør restruktureres slik at den dekker sykepleiens gjenstandsområde fullt ut og slik at den hierarkiske strukturen oppnår tilfredstillende ontologisk homogenitet.
Brief: Nursing Diagnostic Applications Derived From National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry (NACB) Draft Guidelines and Recommendations for Laboratory Analysis in the Diagnosis and Management of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Lavin Mary Ann
Published: May 2008

This brief indicates how methods used by the National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry (NACB) in the development of its guidelines and recommendation for the laboratory analysis in the diagnosis and management of diabetes mellitus may be applied to advance nomenclature, clinical practice, and research development within nursing. Specifically, human response diagnoses require the identification of accurate tests to confirm or reject the diagnoses. Each test needs to be described in terms of its use, rationale, analytical, and emerging considerations. Accurate test development will move nursing nomenclature, clinical practice, and research forward.
Dynamical friction of radio galaxies in galaxy clusters
Authors: Nath Biman B.
Published: May 2008

The distribution of luminous radio galaxies in galaxy clusters has been observed to be concentrated in the inner region. We consider the role of dynamical friction of massive galaxies (M∼ 1012.5M⊙), assuming them to be hosts of luminous radio galaxies, and show that beginning with a Navarro–Frenk–White density profile of a cluster of mass Mcl∼ 1015M⊙ of concentration c∼ 5 and collapsing at z∼ 1, the density profile of radio galaxies evolves to a profile of concentration c∼ 25, as observed, in a time-scale of t∼ 3–5 Gyr.
MAGIC J0616+225 as delayed TeV emission of cosmic rays diffusing from the supernova remnant IC 443
Authors: Torres Diego F. , Rodriguez Marrero Ana Y. , De Cea del Pozo Elsa
Published: May 2008

We present a theoretical model that explains the high-energy phenomenology of the neighbourhood of the supernova remnant IC 443, as observed with the Major Atmospheric Gamma Imaging Cherenkov (MAGIC) telescope and the Energetic Gamma-Ray Experiment Telescope (EGRET). We interpret MAGIC J0616+225 as delayed TeV emission of cosmic rays diffusing from IC 443 and interacting with a known cloud located at a distance of about 20 pc in the foreground of the remnant. This scenario naturally explains the displacement between EGRET and MAGIC sources, their fluxes, and their spectra. We compare this model with others recently presented, and discuss how it can be tested with observations by the Gamma-ray Large Area Space Telescope.
Recognition by medical and nursing professionals of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition in elderly hospitalised patients
Authors: ADAMS Naomi E. , BOWIE Alison J. , SIMMANCE Natalie , MURRAY Michael , CROWE Timothy C.
Published: May 2008

Objective:  To determine the prevalence of malnutrition in a population of elderly hospitalised patients and to explore health professionals' perceptions and awareness of signs and risks of malnutrition and treatment options available.

Subjects and design:  One hundred elderly patients and 57 health professionals from medical wards of a tertiary teaching hospital. Quantitative and qualitative study design using a validated malnutrition assessment tool (Mini Nutritional Assessment) and researcher‐designed questionnaire to assess health professionals' knowledge of nutrition risk factors.

Main outcome measures:  Mini Nutritional Assessment score, nutrition risk category and themes in health professionals' knowledge and awareness of malnutrition and its risk factors.

Results:  Thirty per cent of patients were identified as malnourished while 61% were at risk of malnutrition. Documentation by health professionals of two major risk factors for malnutrition—recent loss of weight and appetite—were poor with only 19% and 53% of patients with actual loss of weight or appetite, respectively, identified by staff and only 7% and 9% of these patients, respectively, referred for dietetic assessment. While health professionals' knowledge of important medical risk factors for malnutrition was good, their knowledge of malnutrition risk factors such as recent loss of weight and loss of appetite was poor. Medical staff focused on biochemical factors when assessing nutrition status, while nursing staff focused on skin integrity and turgor.

Conclusion:  Malnutrition in elderly hospitalised patients remains a significant problem with low rates of recognition and referral by medical and nursing staff. Considerable scope exists to develop training and education tools and to implement an appropriate nutrition screening policy to improve referral rates to dietitians.
Nutritional status and dietary intake of outpatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: HUMPHREYS Karen , CROSS Giordana , FRITH Peter , CAFARELLA Paul
Published: May 2008

Aim:  To determine, in Australian chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) outpatients, the prevalence of nutritional depletion, adequacy of dietary intake and relationship between nutritional depletion and clinical indicators.

Methods:  Cross‐sectional study of 66 stable COPD outpatients (mean forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 60% predicted (95% confidence interval 54, 67) ). Nutritional status was assessed using body mass index (BMI) and fat‐free mass index (FFMI). Four‐day estimated food records were compared with the new Australian Nutrient Reference Values. Clinical indicators included respiratory function and quality of life (QoL) using the St George Respiratory Questionnaire.

Results:  Thirty per cent of subjects (n = 20) were nutritionally depleted (BMI < 20 kg/m2 and/or FFMI < 16.7 kg/m2 (male) or <14.6 kg/m2 (female) ). Low FFMI despite normal/high BMI was present in 20% of subjects (n = 13). Many subjects were not meeting estimated requirements for energy (n = 43 of 57), calcium (n = 47), fibre (n = 47), folate (n = 37), magnesium (n = 28) and zinc (n = 14). Nutritionally depleted subjects had significantly lower respiratory function (FEV1 (% predicted) (P = 0.003) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (%) (P = 0.038) ), while QoL scores were not significantly different.

Conclusion:  While nutritional depletion is a recognised complication of COPD that is predictive of early mortality, this is the first nutritional analysis of stable ambulatory COPD patients in Australia. One‐third of this sample was nutritionally depleted, characterised particularly by low fat‐free mass. Intake of energy and several nutrients was also inadequate. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of nutritional depletion are required, as it is highly prevalent in this population and associated with poorer outcomes.
Dietary approaches for weight loss with increased intakes of fruit, vegetables and dairy products
Authors: BOOTH Alison , NOWSON Caryl , WORSLEY Anthony , MARGERISON Claire , JORNA Michelle
Published: May 2008

Aim:  To assess the effectiveness of specific advice for increasing fruit, vegetable and dairy intake in free‐living men participating in a weight loss study.

Methods:  Subjects were randomised to one of two 12‐week weight loss diets, either the WELL with daily targets of four serves of fruit, four serves of vegetables and three serves of dairy or a low fat diet (LF) with general advice to increase fruit and vegetable intake. Three‐day food group diaries and a food frequency questionnaire assessed intake.

Results:  Fifty‐four overweight/obese male adults completed the study (WELL, n = 27; LF, n = 27; body mass index (mean ± standard deviation), 30.4 ± 2.5 kg/m2; age, 47.7 ± 9.5 years). There was no difference in mean weight change between groups (WELL, −4.8 ± 3.3 kg; LF, −4.6 ± 3.1 kg). Subjects on the WELL diet had greater (mean difference ± standard error) fruit (0.7 ± 0.2 serves/day), vegetable (1.2 ± 0.2 serves/day) and dairy (1.1 ± 0.1 serves/day) intakes than the LF group (measured by the food group diaries) (all P < 0.01). The WELL group reached the daily target for fruit from week 1 (4.7 ± 1.4 serves/day), vegetables by week 6 (4.1 ± 1.5 serves/day) and for dairy by week 8 (3.0 ± 0.8 serves/day).

Conclusions:  Providing specific dietary targets to men for weight loss appears to promote greater consumption of fruit, vegetable and dairy foods than providing general dietary advice. Meeting dietary targets appears to require different adjustment periods depending on the food type.
A quality improvement nutrition screening and intervention program available to Home and Community Care eligible clients
Authors: LEGGO Marion , BANKS Merrilyn , ISENRING Elisabeth , STEWART Lynette , TWEEDDALE Margaret
Published: May 2008

Objective:  To develop and implement a nutrition screening and dietetic referral system for Home and Community Care (HACC) eligible clients.

Design:  Quality improvement project utilising a prospective, observational design.

Setting:  Sixteen Australian organisations caring for HACC eligible clients.

Subjects:  One thousand one hundred and forty‐five HACC eligible clients (mean age 76.5 ± 7.2 years) were screened for nutritional risk during 2003–2005.

Interventions:  Nutrition screening was conducted by trained project officers, allied health staff, community care coordinators and nursing staff using a modified version of the malnutrition screening tool (MST). Dietitians performed a nutrition assessment using the scored Patient Generated‐Subjective Global Assessment (PG‐SGA) and provided individualised nutrition counselling for those identified to be at risk of malnutrition and agreeing to treatment.

Results:  According to the MST, 170 clients (15%) were identified as being at risk of malnutrition. Of these, 75 (44%) agreed to the dietetic referral and PG‐SGA assessment, and 57 were subsequently assessed as malnourished (PG‐SGA category B or C), suggesting a malnutrition prevalence between 5% and 11%. Of the 34 malnourished clients receiving multiple dietetic reviews (mean 4.1 ± 2.0 per client), 28 improved, with 17 achieving a well‐nourished PG‐SGA A rating.

Conclusion:  The development and implementation of a nutrition screening and referral system can identify HACC eligible clients who would benefit from services provided by a dietitian. Further research should identify the reasons why some HACC eligible clients are reluctant to be referred to a dietitian.
Potential benefits of improved protein intake in older people
Authors: DAWSON Beryl , TAYLOR Jayne , FAVALORO Emmanuel J.
Published: May 2008

Ageing is associated with an increased incidence of diabetes, impaired immunity and numerous physiological, social and economic changes. Another under‐recognised change to significantly impact on health outcomes and quality of life is the drastic loss of lean body mass. New concepts have recently emerged which indicate that different types of protein sources supply constituents differentially according to digestion rate, and that amino acids have roles additional to muscle synthesis. This review explores the benefits of higher protein intakes in older people and how the protein source may provide differential benefits. In particular, whey protein is more quickly digested than either casein or soy, and provides a faster and potentially greater net source of available nutrients and essential amino acids essential for maintaining better health.
Health and environmental implications of the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet
Authors: RUSSELL Geoff , FERRIE Suzie
Published: May 2008

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Total Wellbeing diet allows high intakes of meat and fish with emphasis on red meat. A person following this diet could be eating 200 g of red meat per day or more. The evidence for the link between red and processed meat and colorectal cancer has been strengthened by recent studies. The production of red meat consumes large amounts of water, and generates high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends three to four serves (each 65–100 g) of red meat per week. Compared with the lower end of this range (three servings (70 g) of red meat per week), consumption of 200 g red meat per day would use an extra 15 000 L of water in a week, and generate an extra 4.3 tonnes of greenhouse gas in a year. Thus, there are compelling health and environmental reasons for avoiding this diet in its usual form.
Estimated nutrient intake of urban Indigenous participants enrolled in a lifestyle intervention program
Authors: LONGSTREET Diane , HEATH Deanne , SAVAGE Ida , VINK Robert , PANARETTO Kathryn
Published: May 2008

Aim:  The present study evaluates the reported nutrient intake of adult urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who participated in a medically based lifestyle intervention program.

Methods:  The analysis was based on dietary records from all Indigenous participants (n = 100) enrolled in a 2003–2005 prospective lifestyle intervention study that followed a cohort of overweight (body mass index > 25) participants served by the Townsville Aboriginal and Islanders Health Service, Queensland, Australia. Standardised multiple‐pass 24‐hour dietary recalls were collected at baseline and 12‐month program completion. Changes in pre‐ and post‐program reported intake were evaluated using a paired‐sample t‐test. The Mann–Whitney test was used to compare baseline intake with an age and gender‐matched sample created from 1995 National Nutrition Survey data.

Results:  The cohort was 88% female with a mean age of 44.4 ± 1.3 standard error of the mean. Dietary intake improved between baseline and program completion. At baseline, there was a high prevalence of reported intakes below the Estimated Average Requirement for vitamin A, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, iron and zinc. Compared with the median Australian intake, the Indigenous intake was significantly higher in protein and cholesterol; however, vitamin A, vitamin C, niacin, potassium, magnesium, iron and fibre were lower.

Conclusions:  The present study found the intake in a cohort of Indigenous people was significantly different than the previously measured Australian nutrient intake. The nutrient patterns observed in the present study may be associated with the excess chronic disease burden experienced by Australian Indigenous populations.
Methods for Computer‐Aided Chemical Biology. Part 3: Analysis of Structure–Selectivity Relationships through Single‐ or Dual‐Step Selectivity Searching and Bayesian Classification
Authors: Stumpfe Dagmar , Geppert Hanna , Bajorath Jürgen
Published: May 2008

The identification of small molecules that are selective for individual targets within target families is an important task in chemical biology. We aim at the development of computational approaches for the study of structure–selectivity relationships and prediction of target‐selective ligands. In previous studies, we have introduced the concept of selectivity searching. Here we study compound selectivity on the basis of 18 selectivity sets that are designed to contain target‐selective molecules and compounds that are comparably active against related targets. These sets consist of a total of 432 compounds and focus on eight targets belonging to four target families. This compound source has enabled us to evaluate different computational approaches to search for target‐selective compounds in large databases. These investigations have revealed a preferred search strategy to enrich database selection sets with target‐selective compounds. The selectivity sets reported here are made publicly available to support the development of other computational tools for applications in chemical biology and medicinal chemistry.
Effectiveness of propolis and calcium hydroxide as a short‐term intracanal medicament against Enterococcus faecalis: A laboratory study
Authors: Awawdeh Lama , AL‐Beitawi Maha , Hammad Mohammad
Published: May 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the antimicrobial activity of propolis‐based intracanal medicament against Enterococcus faecalis using infected dentine models, and to compare its antimicrobial efficacy with that of the non‐setting calcium hydroxide paste when used as a short‐term medication for 1 and 2 days. A total of 50 dentine discs of 7‐mm length was obtained from extracted human teeth. Five dentine discs were kept sterile to serve as a negative control. The remaining 45 were contaminated with E. faecalis and divided into two groups (n = 20) in addition to five discs that served as a positive control. The discs were treated as follow: 20 discs were filled with propolis, while the other 20 discs were filled with non‐setting calcium hydroxide. Microbiological sampling was performed utilising sterile paper point, headstrom file and disc immersion. Results showed that propolis was significantly more effective than non‐setting calcium hydroxide against E. faecalis after short‐term application, which made comparison from this prospect unlevelled. The most effective microbiological sampling technique was abrading the lumen with headstrom file. Propolis is very effective as intracanal medicament in rapidly eliminating E. faecalis ex vivo.
Susceptibility of Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis to Chitosan, Chlorhexidine gluconate and their combination in vitro
Authors: Ballal N. V. , Kundabala M. , Bhat K. S. , Acharya S. , Ballal M. , Kumar R. , Prakash P. Y.
Published: May 2008

The aim of the present study was to analyse the sustain release of Chlorhexidine with Chitosan and to investigate the antimicrobial activity of 2% Chlorhexidine gel, 2% Chitosan gel and their combination against Candida albicans and Enterococcus faecalis. Sustain release of Chlorhexidine with Chitosan was determined using UV spectrophotometer. Then the inoculae of these organisms were used to make the lawn culture on sabouraud's dextrose agar and blood agar plates. Wells were prepared in these lawn cultures and filled with 2% Chlorhexidine gel, 2% Chitosan gel and their combination. The agar plates were incubated overnight at 37°C and the zone of inhibition was examined after 48 h. Release of Chlorhexidine with Chitosan was better than plain Chlorhexidine release. Combination of Chlorhexidine and Chitosan showed maximum inhibitory zone for C. albicans (25.2 mm) and E. faecalis (26.0 mm). Plain Chlorhexidine gel showed intermediate inhibitory zone for C. albicans (20.6 mm) and E. faecalis (21.4 mm) and plain Chitosan gel showed minimum inhibitory zone for C. albicans (16.6 mm) and E. faecalis (11.0 mm). Carbopol which served as control did not have any antimicrobial effect. The present study suggests that 2% Chlorhexidine gel in combination with 2% Chitosan gel has the highest antimicrobial effect against C. albicans and E. faecalis compared with 2% Chlorhexidine gel or 2% Chitosan gel alone.
Endodontic re‐treatment associated with the elimination of amalgam root‐end filling through sinus tracts: A report of two cases
Authors: Soares Janir Alves , Nunes Eduardo , Silveira Frank Ferreira , Santos Suelleng Maria Cunha , Oliveira Maiolino Thomaz Fonseca
Published: May 2008

Two patients presented with complaints of recurrent drainage of purulent exudate from sinus tracts, inflammation and pain after endodontic re‐treatment of the maxillary left (Case 1) and right (Case 2) lateral incisors. The periapical lesions persisted after apical curettage, apicectomy and root‐end filling with silver amalgam. Radiographic examination exposed the poor quality of the endodontic treatments and the silver amalgam root‐end fillings, which were associated with periapical radiolucent areas in both teeth. The sinus tract persisted after root canal cleaning and shaping, followed by a calcium hydroxide root canal dressing. The root‐end fillings were periapically dislodged with endodontic K‐files, and showed progressive displacement by sinus tracts up to elimination in the oral cavity. Follow ups of 42 and 65 months post procedure revealed clinical disappearance of the symptoms, sinus tracts and exudates, and radiographs revealed that the repair process of the periapical radiolucent areas was quite advanced.
Extrusion of debris after use of rotary nickel‐titanium files with different pitch: A pilot study
Authors: Elmsallati Elham A. , Wadachi Reiko , Suda Hideaka
Published: May 2008

The aim of this investigation was to quantitatively compare the amount of debris extruded apically from curved canals when using rotary nickel‐titanium files with different pitches and sequences of use under the same preparation technique. Thirty‐six extracted human maxillary and mandibular molars with curved root canals were used. They were divided into two groups of 18 teeth each prepared by one of two different sequences with NRT files (MANI Inc., Tochigi, Japan). Each group was further divided into three subgroups according to file pitch length (short, medium and long). The debris extruded apically was collected in glass vials. The liquid inside was dried and the debris in each group was weighed and compared. Two‐way analysis of variance and Fisher's PLSD test were used to evaluate differences between the extruded debris weights among the experimental groups. No statistically significant difference was observed between two sequences. There were significant differences in sequence 1 between the short pitch group and the others. Also, there were significant differences between the long pitch and others in sequence 2, except between the short and medium pitches. In conclusion, short pitch design resulted in significantly less amount of debris extrusion compared with the other pitch lengths.
Age‐specific birth rates of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) in the Gulf of California, Mexico
Authors: Hernández‐Camacho Claudia J. , Aurioles‐Gamboa David , Gerber Leah R.
Published: May 2008

Abstract

Estimates of demographic parameters are essential for assessing the status of populations and assigning conservation priority. In light of the difficulties associated with obtaining such estimates, vital rates are rarely available even for well‐studied species. We present the first estimates of age‐specific birth rates for female California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) >10 yr of age. These rates were estimated from the reproductive histories of five cohorts of animals branded as pups between 1980 and 1984 at Los Islotes colony in the Gulf of California, Mexico. Age‐specific birth rates varied among age classes and ranged between 0.06 and 0.80. The highest birth rates were observed for females between 10 and 15 yr of age, with decreased birth rates among older females. The effect of age, year, and resighting effort were explored using logistic regression analysis. Based on Akaike Information Criteria, birth rates were best explained by female age, while year and resighting effort did not have a significant effect. The odds ratio of producing a pup decreased with age but did not change significantly for middle‐aged females. Our estimates of age‐specific birth rates are consistent with general patterns observed for other large vertebrates.