bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barium toxicosis in a dog
Authors: Adam Fiona H. , Noble Peter J. M. , Swift Simon T. , Higgins Brent M. , Sieniawska Christine E.
Published: September 2010

Case Description—A 2-year-old 14.9-kg (32.8-lb) neutered female Shetland Sheepdog was admitted to the University of Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital for evaluation of acute collapse.

Clinical Findings—At admission, the dog was tachypneic and had reduced limb reflexes and muscle tone in all limbs consistent with diffuse lower motor neuron dysfunction. The dog was severely hypokalemic (1.7 mEq/L; reference range, 3.5 to 5.8 mEq/L). Clinical status of the dog deteriorated; there was muscle twitching, flaccid paralysis, and respiratory failure, which was considered a result of respiratory muscle weakness. Ventricular arrhythmias and severe acidemia (pH, 7.18; reference range, 7.35 to 7.45) developed. Intoxication was suspected, and plasma and urine samples submitted for barium analysis had barium concentrations comparable with those reported in humans with barium toxicosis. Analysis of barium concentrations in 5 control dogs supported the diagnosis of barium toxicosis in the dog.

Treatment and Outcome—Fluids and potassium supplementation were administered IV. The dog recovered rapidly. Electrolyte concentrations measured after recovery were consistently unremarkable. Quantification of plasma barium concentration 56 days after the presumed episode of intoxication revealed a large decrease; however, the plasma barium concentration remained elevated, compared with that in control dogs.

Clinical Relevance—To our knowledge, this case represented the first description of barium toxicosis in the veterinary literature. Barium toxicosis can cause life-threatening hypokalemia; however, prompt supportive treatment can yield excellent outcomes. Barium toxicosis is a rare but important differential diagnosis in animals with hypokalemia and appropriate clinical signs.
Thoracoscopic subtotal pericardiectomy and right atrial mass resection in a dog
Authors: Crumbaker Denise M. , Rooney Matthew B. , Case J. Brad
Published: September 2010

Case Description—A 10-year-old spayed female Corgi mix was examined for a 3-week history of lethargy and weight gain.

Clinical Findings—Physical examination findings included muffled heart sounds and a distended abdomen with a fluid wave on ballottement. Thoracic radiography revealed a globoid cardiac silhouette, and thoracic ultrasonography indicated pericardial effusion and a pedunculated mass originating from the right auricle.

Treatment and Outcome—Initial treatment consisted of pericardiocentesis. One week later, thoracoscopic right atrial mass resection was performed. No surgical complications were noted, and the dog was discharged approximately 28 hours after surgery. Results of histologic examination of the mass indicated a grade 2 hemangiosarcoma with incomplete margins. Treatment with doxorubicin was initiated 35 days after surgery. The dog survived for 177 days after mass resection, when it was euthanized because of complications related to metastatic disease.

Clinical Relevance—Findings suggested that thoracoscopic right atrial mass removal combined with adjunct doxorubicin treatment may be a viable alternative to thoracotomy in dogs with right atrial masses.
Spontaneous elimination of superficial vein calcified
Authors: Godoy José , Batigália Fernando
Published: September 2010

The calcification of superficial veins of inferior members has rarely been published in the literature. The case shows calcifications of superficial varicose veins with the elimination of fragments.
Managing Inspections and Representing Safety at Industrial Parks
Authors: Bragatto Paolo , Bogliolo Maria , Pittiglio Paolo
Published: September 2010

Managing Inspections and Representing Safety at Industrial Parks

At industrial sites, there are often problems of misperceptions of the risks by the local community and it is essential to make visible both hazards and safety activities to all stakeholders (employees, citizens, authorities). A software prototype has been developed in order to demonstrate the feasibility of a system for the presentation of safety activities within an industrial park. By means of a browser all safety activities are visible for the user. Both the activities undertaken by employers and those performed by the regulatory bodies may be monitored. At any time, the actual safety level may be demonstrated to any stakeholder. A correct perception of risks will be supported by this commitment to transparency.
A Fuzzy - Neuron Model of the Ship Propulsion Risk Prediction
Authors: Brandowski Alfred , Mielewczyk Andrzej , Nguyen Hoang , Frąckowiak Wojciech
Published: September 2010

A Fuzzy - Neuron Model of the Ship Propulsion Risk Prediction

A prediction model is presented of the ship propulsion risk, i.e. a risk of the consequences of loss of the ship propulsion capability. This is an expert model based on opinions elicited by the ship power plant operators. The risk level depends, among other things, on the reliability state of the ship propulsion system components. This state is defined by operators in a linguistic form. The formal risk model parameters are determined by means of a neural network.
Integrated Avionics Systems - Diagnostic Tools and Data Transmission Standards
Authors: Cieślik Andrzej
Published: September 2010

Integrated Avionics Systems - Diagnostic Tools and Data Transmission Standards

The paper has been intended to present research tools used at AFIT to activate and test hardware and software implemented in the integrated avionics systems. Particular attention has been paid to the research stand (built under the R&D project of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education) intended to optimize avionics systems integrated with digital data buses employed (according to, among other things, MIL-STD-1553B and ARINC-429 standards). Specialized research equipment/test devices used to test software, including - apart from other things - test-patterns generators (within the range of display capability of the secondary head-up display (SHUD)) and information efficiency testers (for the SHUD and up-front control panel (UFCP) thereof) have also been presented.
The Operation Modes of E/E/PE System and Their Influence on Determining and Verifying the Safety Integrity Level
Authors: Barnert Tomasz , Kosmowski Kazimierz , Śliwiński Marcin
Published: September 2010

The Operation Modes of E/E/PE System and Their Influence on Determining and Verifying the Safety Integrity Level

The standard PN-EN 61508 introduces some probabilistic criteria for the E/E/PE systems that can operate in different modes of operation, which are related to the safety integrity level (SIL). For the control and protection systems, operating in a low demand mode, the criterion is the average probability of dangerous failure on demand PFDavg. In case of systems working in a continuous mode of operation or high demand, the criterion is probability of dangerous failure per hour PFH. In practice, the E/E/PE systems implement many safety-related functions (SRFs), which have different requirements for high and low demands. Thus, there is the problem with choosing proper probabilistic criterion for determining required SIL for a safety-related function to be implemented by these systems as well as in the process of quantitative verification of SIL for considered architectures.
A Method of Aircraft Reliability Assessment as Referred to the Operational-Use Safety
Authors: Krutkow Antonina , Pigłas Mieczysław , Zieja Mariusz
Published: September 2010

A Method of Aircraft Reliability Assessment as Referred to the Operational-Use Safety

Throughout the operational phase of aviation objects, the safety and reliability thereof are characterised with a set of a dozen or so, or even tens of indices correlated with each other. Hence, any analytical and assessment-oriented efforts as well as comparisons - for any specific feature - between both the objects themselves and the systems of manufacturing, operating, and maintaining them are usually hindered. The intended aim of this paper is to suggest some solution to this problem, one that consists in reducing the number of operational indices of safety down to several indices of significance which contain most information on the object under assessment or on a system of operating this object
Analysis of Feasibility to Assess Microstructure of Gas Turbine Blades by Means of the Thermographic Method
Authors: Kułaszka Artur , Błachnio Józef , Kornas Łukasz
Published: September 2010

Analysis of Feasibility to Assess Microstructure of Gas Turbine Blades by Means of the Thermographic Method

Operation of avionic turbine engines is always associated with possibility of various defects that may happen to turbine components, in particular to its blades. The most frequent reason for defects is overheating of the blade material but the thermal fatigue also occurs quite often. The most efficient examination method that provides plenty of information about structure of the investigated material of turbine blades is metallography but it is a destructive testing technology, so that the turbine no longer can be used after such investigation. This paper deals with methods of non-destructive tests that are currently in use and applicability of such methods to unbiased and trustworthy computer-aided diagnostics aimed to find out how the blade microstructure status varies in time. Results of initial examination of gas turbine blades are presented whereas the tests with use of the non-invasive thermographic method were carried out in order to assess condition of the blade material after the turbines had been subjected to the effect of high temperatures. Subsequently, the obtained results were successfully validated by means of the metallographic method. Eventually the conclusion could be made that the thermographic method makes it possible to achieve comprehensive and trustworthy information how microstructure of the blade materials is altered during the aircraft operation.
“The Muslim Woman” as Celebrity Author and the Politics of Translating Arabic
Authors: Booth Marilyn
Published: September 2010

This essay considers the recent production of texts in English that construct and rely on repeated and homogenized images of Muslim women, focusing on a translated text but arguing for its contextualization within the market of popular memoir. Taking the translation of Rajaa Alsanea’s Banat al-Riyadh into English as a case study, I argue that revisions made by press and author to my translation assimilated it to chick-lit generic conventions in the anglophone marketplace, muting the gender politics and situatedness of multiple kinds of Arabic that acted, in the original novel, as a critique of the Saudi system. Paratextual framing of the marketed book and translational choices emphasized the fiction as a writing of “experience,” bringing it closer to the memoir genre and linking it to a tradition of what I call Orientalist ethnographicism. These effects produce a work and author-figure both exotic and familiar.
Reliability analysis of the epidural spinal cord compression scale
Authors: Bilsky Mark H. , Laufer Ilya , Fourney Daryl R. , Groff Michael , Schmidt Meic H. , Varga Peter Paul , Vrionis Frank D. , Yamada Yoshiya , Gerszten Peter C. , Kuklo Timothy R.
Published: September 2010

Objective

The evolution of imaging techniques, along with highly effective radiation options has changed the way metastatic epidural tumors are treated. While high-grade epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) frequently serves as an indication for surgical decompression, no consensus exists in the literature about the precise definition of this term. The advancement of the treatment paradigms in patients with metastatic tumors for the spine requires a clear grading scheme of ESCC. The degree of ESCC often serves as a major determinant in the decision to operate or irradiate. The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of a 6-point, MR imaging–based grading system for ESCC.

Methods

To determine the reliability of the grading scale, a survey was distributed to 7 spine surgeons who participate in the Spine Oncology Study Group. The MR images of 25 cervical or thoracic spinal tumors were distributed consisting of 1 sagittal image and 3 axial images at the identical level including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and Gd-enhanced T1-weighted images. The survey was administered 3 times at 2-week intervals. The inter- and intrarater reliability was assessed.

Results

The inter- and intrarater reliability ranged from good to excellent when surgeons were asked to rate the degree of spinal cord compression using T2-weighted axial images. The T2-weighted images were superior indicators of ESCC compared with T1-weighted images with and without Gd.

Conclusions

The ESCC scale provides a valid and reliable instrument that may be used to describe the degree of ESCC based on T2-weighted MR images. This scale accounts for recent advances in the treatment of spinal metastases and may be used to provide an ESCC classification scheme for multicenter clinical trial and outcome studies.
Progression of low back and lower extremity pain in a cohort of patients with achondroplasia
Authors: Ain Michael C. , Abdullah Madeel A. , Ting Beverlie L. , Skolasky Richard L. , Carlisle Emily Streyer , Schkrohowsky Joshua G. , Rigamonti Daniele
Published: September 2010

Object

The aim of this study was to assess the natural history of pain associated with spinal stenosis in individuals with achondroplasia and to characterize pain patterns and associated functional and psychological effects.

Methods

The authors measured pain severity, spatial distribution of pain, functional disability, psychological distress, physical symptoms other than pain, and healthcare utilization in 181 individuals with achondroplasia. They also assessed low back and/or lower extremity pain at the initial visit and 1-year follow-up via self-rated patient questionnaires, calculated composite scores from responses via component analyses, and used repeated measures linear regression analyses for score changes (significance, p ≤ 0.05).

Results

At the follow-up, back pain severity was unchanged. Patients reported significant progression of pain toward involvement of the lower extremities and significant increases in lower extremity pain severity overall. There were also significant increases in healthcare utilization overall. Compared with patients with back pain only, those with back pain and proximal or distal leg pain had higher self-rated pain severity; higher functional disability; and more bowel and bladder dysfunction symptoms, sleep disturbances, extremity numbness, and psychological distress.

Conclusions

Individuals with achondroplasia and symptomatic spinal stenosis often experience back pain, which may progress to lower extremity pain and debilitating consequences. A more thorough understanding of the progression of spatial pain characteristics and pain severity may aid clinical decision making regarding the optimal timing for intervention.
Using the T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging signal intensity ratio and clinical manifestations to assess the prognosis of patients with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament
Authors: Wang Lin-Feng , Zhang Ying-Ze , Shen Yong , Su Yan-Ling , Xu Jia-Xin , Ding Wen-Yuan , Zhang Ying-Hua
Published: September 2010

Object

The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of both the signal intensity ratio obtained from MR imaging and clinical manifestations on the prognosis of patients with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of 58 patients with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament who underwent cervical laminoplasty from February 1999 to July 2007. Magnetic resonance imaging (1.5-T) was performed in all patients before surgery. Sagittal T2-weighted images of the cervical spinal cord compressed by the ossified posterior longitudinal ligament showed increased intramedullary signal intensity, whereas the sagittal images obtained at the C7–T1 disc levels were of normal intensity. The signal intensity ratio between regions of intramedullary increased signal intensity and the normal C7–T1 disc level was calculated based on the signal intensity values generated from the MR imaging workstation. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to their signal intensity ratio (high, intermediate, and low signal intensity groups).

Results

There were significant differences between the 3 groups regarding recovery rate (p < 0.001), age (p = 0.022), duration of disease (p = 0.001), Babinski sign (p < 0.001), ankle clonus (p < 0.001), and both pre- and postoperative Japanese Orthopaedic Association score (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in sex among the 3 groups (p = 0.391).

Conclusions

Patients with low signal intensity ratios that changed on T2-weighted imaging experienced a good surgical outcome. Low increased signal intensity might reflect mild neuropathological alteration in the spinal cord and greater recuperative potential. An increased signal intensity ratio with positive pyramidal signs indicates less recuperative potential of the spinal cord and a poor surgical outcome.
Stereotactic radiosurgery for the treatment of symptomatic brainstem cavernous malformations
Authors: Monaco Edward A. , Khan Aftab A. , Niranjan Ajay , Kano Hideyuki , Grandhi Ramesh , Kondziolka Douglas , Flickinger John C. , Lunsford L. Dade
Published: September 2010

Object

The authors performed a retrospective review of prospectively collected data to evaluate the safety and efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for the treatment of patients harboring symptomatic solitary cavernous malformations (CMs) of the brainstem that bleed repeatedly and are high risk for resection.

Methods

Between 1988 and 2005, 68 patients (34 males and 34 females) with solitary, symptomatic CMs of the brainstem underwent Gamma Knife surgery. The mean patient age was 41.2 years, and all patients had suffered at least 2 symptomatic hemorrhages (range 2–12 events) before radiosurgery. Prior to SRS, 15 patients (22.1%) had undergone attempted resection. The mean volume of the malformation treated was 1.19 ml, and the mean prescribed marginal radiation dose was 16 Gy.

Results

The mean follow-up period was 5.2 years (range 0.6–12.4 years). The pre-SRS annual hemorrhage rate was 32.38%, or 125 hemorrhages, excluding the first hemorrhage, over a total of 386 patient-years. Following SRS, 11 hemorrhages were observed within the first 2 years of follow-up (8.22% annual hemorrhage rate) and 3 hemorrhages were observed in the period after the first 2 years of follow-up (1.37% annual hemorrhage rate). A significant reduction (p < 0.0001) in the risk of brainstem CM hemorrhages was observed following radiosurgical treatment, as well as in latency period of 2 years after SRS (p < 0.0447). Eight patients (11.8%) experienced new neurological deficits as a result of adverse radiation effects following SRS.

Conclusions

The results of this study support a role for the use of SRS for symptomatic CMs of the brainstem, as it is relatively safe and appears to reduce rebleeding rates in this high-surgical-risk location.
New Bounds on the Minimum Average Distance of Binary Codes
Authors: Basu M. , Bagchi S.
Published: September 2010

The minimum average Hamming distance of binary codes of length n and cardinality M is denoted by b(n,M). All the known lower bounds b(n,M) are useful when M is at least of size about 2n-1/n . In this paper, for large n, we improve upper and lower bounds for b(n,M). Keywords: Binary code; Hamming distance; Minimum average Hamming distance. © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.2708                  J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 489-493 (2010)
Synthesis, Characterization, Antifeeding and Insect Growth-Regulating Activities of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) Complexes with N-Acetylacetonyl-3-Aminocoumarin
Authors: Shyamala B. S. , Lakshmi P. V. A. , Raju V. J. T.
Published: September 2010

Metal complexes of Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) have been synthesized using N-acetylacetonyl-3-aminocoumarin as chelating agent. The ligand behaves as a monobasic tridentate ONO donor towards Ni(II) and as monobasic bidentate ON donor towards other cations. All the complexes have been proposed to have octahedral geometry on the basis of analytical, thermal conductivity, spectral and magnetic data. The complexes have been screened against Spodoptera litura; F (Lepidoptera: noctuiidae) for antifeeding and insect growth-regulating activities The results show appreciable antifeeding and insect growth-regulating activities associated with metal complexation at higher and lower doses respectively. Keywords: Metal complexes; N-Acetylacetonyl-3-aminocoumarin; Antifeeding activity; Insect growth-regulating activity. © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsr.v2i3.4673 J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 525-537 (2010)
MHD Natural Convection Flow of Fluid From a Vertical Flat Plate Considering Temperature Dependent Viscosity
Authors: Ahmmed S. F. , Sarker M. S. A.
Published: September 2010

A two-dimensional natural convection flow of a viscous incompressible and electrically conducting fluid past a vertical impermeable flat plate is considered in presence of a uniform transverse magnetic field. Here the viscosity is taken as dependent on temperature whereas the thermal conductivity is assumed constant. We also investigate the effect of magnetic field on the natural convection flow of a viscous incompressible and electrically conducting fluid. The effect of variable viscosity and magnetic field on local skin friction, the rate of heat transfer and the profiles for velocity as well as viscosity in the entire free convection regime are presented and discussed. Keywords: Natural convection; Magnethydrodynamics (MHD); Viscosity; Prandtl number.  © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.4776                 J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 453-463 (2010)
Bosentan Improves Skin Perfusion of Hands in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: ROSATO EDOARDO , MOLINARO ILENIA , BORGHESE FEDERICA , ROSSI CARMELINA , PISARRI SIMONETTA , SALSANO FELICE
Published: September 2010

Objective.

Our aim was to investigate effects of bosentan on hand perfusion in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), using laser Doppler perfusion imaging (LDPI).

Methods.

We enrolled 30 SSc patients with PAH, 30 SSc patients without PAH, and 30 healthy controls. In SSc patients and healthy controls at baseline, skin blood flow of the dorsum of the hands was determined with a Lisca laser Doppler perfusion imager. The dorsal surface of the hands was divided into 3 regions of interest (ROI). ROI 1 included 3 fingers of the hand from the second to the fourth distally to the proximal interphalangeal finger joint. ROI 2 included the area between the proximal interphalangeal and the metacarpophalangeal joint. ROI 3 included only the dorsal surface of the hand without the fingers. LDPI was repeated in SSc patients and controls after 4, 8, and 16 weeks of treatment. In SSc patients, nailfold videocapillaroscopy and Raynaud Condition Score (RCS) were performed at baseline and at 4, 8, and 16 weeks.

Results.

SSc patients with PAH enrolled in the study received treatment with bosentan as standard care for PAH. In these patients with PAH, after 8 and 16 weeks of treatment, bosentan improved minimum, mean, and maximum perfusion and the perfusion proximal-distal gradient. Bosentan seems to be most effective in patients with the early and active capillaroscopic pattern than in patients with the late pattern. Bosentan improved skin blood flow principally in the ROI 1 compared to the ROI 2 and ROI 3. Bosentan restored the perfusion proximal-distal gradient in 57% of SSc patients with the early capillaroscopic pattern. No significant differences from baseline were observed in the RCS in SSc patients with PAH.

Conclusion.

Bosentan improved skin perfusion in SSc patients with PAH, although it did not ameliorate symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon. Skin blood perfusion increased in SSc patients with PAH, particularly in the skin region distal to the proximal interphalangeal joint, and in patients with the early/active capillaroscopic pattern. Double-blind randomized clinical trials are needed to evaluate the effects of bosentan on skin perfusion of SSc patients without PAH and with active digital ulcers.
Informational Coping Style and Depressive Symptoms in Family Decision Makers
Authors: Hickman Ronald L. , Daly Barbara J. , Douglas Sara L. , Clochesy John M.
Published: September 2010

Background

Overwhelmed family decision makers of chronically critically ill patients must comprehend vital information to make complex treatment decisions that are consistent with patients’ preferences. Exploration of informational coping styles of family decision makers may yield evidence for tailored communication practices supporting the psychological and informational needs of family decision makers.

Objectives

To describe patterns in the demographic characteristics and informational coping styles of family decision makers; to assess differences in informational satisfaction, role stress, and depressive symptoms between family decision makers classified as monitors and as blunters; and to describe the predictive associations between informational coping styles, informational satisfaction, and role stress on depressive symptoms in family decision makers.

Methods

A secondary data analysis of 210 family decision makers of cognitively impaired patients who required 3 days or more of mechanical ventilation. On enrollment, decision makers completed the abbreviated Miller Behavioral Style Scale to assess informational coping styles, the Critical Care Family Satisfaction Survey’s informational subscale to assess informational satisfaction, a single-item measure of role stress, and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale to assess depressive symptoms.

Results

No associations emerged between demographic characteristics and informational coping styles of family decision makers. Monitors had higher depression scores than did blunters. Both information coping style and informational satisfaction influenced depressive symptoms; however, role stress was the most significant predictor.

Conclusions

Family decision makers classified as monitors were at higher risk for depression than were those who seem to avoid information. Targeting monitors with additional psychological and informational support may mitigate their psychological impairment.
Perceived Support Among Families Deciding About Organ Donation for Their Loved Ones: Donor Vs Nondonor Next Of Kin
Authors: Jacoby Liva , Jaccard James
Published: September 2010

Background

Families’ experiences in the hospital influence their decisions about donating organs of brain-dead relatives. Meeting families’ support needs during this traumatic time is an obligation and a challenge for critical care staff.

Objectives

(1) To elicit family members’ accounts of various types of support received and perceived quality of care for themselves and their loved ones when they made the donation decision, and (2) to examine the relationship between these factors and the families’ donation decision.

Methods

Retrospective telephone interviews of 199 families from different regions of the country were completed. Aside from demographic data, the survey addressed perceptions of informational, emotional, and instrumental support and quality of care.

Results

One hundred fifty-four study participants consented to donation; 45 declined. White next of kin were significantly more likely than African Americans to consent. Specific elements of reported support were significantly associated with consent to donate. Donor and nondonor families had differing perceptions of quality care for themselves and their loved ones. Receiving understandable information about organ donation was the strongest predictor of consent.

Conclusions

Specific supportive behaviors by staff as recounted by family members of potential donors were significantly associated with consent to donation. These behaviors lend themselves to creative training and educational programs for staff. Such interventions are essential not only for next of kin of brain-dead patients, but also for staff and ultimately for the public as a whole.
Informal Training in Staff Networks to Support Dissemination of Health Promotion Programs
Authors: Ramanadhan Shoba , Wiecha Jean L. , Gortmaker Steven L. , Emmons Karen M. , Viswanath Kasisomayajula
Published: September 2010

Purpose.

To study informal skill transfer via staff networks as a complement to formal training among afterschool childcare providers implementing a health promotion program.

Design.

Cross-sectional, sociometric network analysis.

Setting.

Boston Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) afterschool programs implementing the iPLAY program.

Participants.

All 91 staff members at 20 sites were eligible; 80 completed the survey (88% response rate).

Measures.

At the network level, network density measured system-level connectedness. At the staff level, the independent variable was out degree, the number of individuals to whom respondents noted a program-related connection. The dependent variable was skill gains, the number of key implementation skills gained from the network.

Analysis.

We mapped the staff program-related social network. We utilized multiple linear regression to estimate the relationship between out degree and skill gains, and we adjusted for clustering of staff in sites.

Results.

Most staff (77%) reported gaining at least one skill from the network, but only 2% of potential network connections were established. The regression model showed that out degree (i.e., number of program-related contacts) was significantly associated with skill gains (β = .48, p < .01) independent of other variables.

Conclusion.

Informal skill transfer in staff networks may be a useful complement to formal training for implementation of health promotion programs, but informal skill transfer was likely underutilized in this network. Future research employing longitudinal and/or multisite data should examine these findings in greater detail.
Reliability and Validity of the Youth Asset Survey: An Update
Authors: Oman Roy F. , Vesely Sara K. , Tolma Eleni L. , Aspy Cheryl B. , Marshall LaDonna
Published: September 2010

Purpose.

Improve and expand an existing youth asset scale.

Design.

Consisted of seven steps: (1) review of poorer-performing items and constructs, (2) literature review for relevant new asset constructs/items, (3) review of revised instrument by panel of experts, (4) qualitative review through focus group research, (5) pilot-test of instrument, (6) evaluation of the performance of the instrument in a longitudinal study, and (7) conduct of test-retest analysis.

Subjects/Setting.

Youth (N = 1111) recruited through canvassing of randomly selected census tracts and blocks.

Measures.

Youth Asset Survey (YAS).

Analysis.

Factor analysis was conducted on 50% of the baseline data and repeated on the second half of the baseline data. Correlations were computed for the test-retest analysis.

Results.

Following modifications to the YAS based upon qualitative research, the survey was administered to youth (mean age, 14.3years; 53% female; 39% white, 28% Hispanic, 23% African-American, 9% other). Cronbach α = .55–.92. A majority (27 of 34) of α ≥ .65. All items loaded on one construct at α ≥ .40. The final results yielded 17 constructs assessed via 61 items. Spearman correlations and intraclass correlations ranged from .60 to .82 and .58 to .87, respectively.

Conclusion.

The results generally suggest that the expanded YAS is a reliable and valid measure of assets.
Emotional Health and Weight Gain: A Prospective Study of Midlife Women
Authors: Tucker Larry A. , Earl Ann Bahr
Published: September 2010

Purpose.

Investigate the extent to which risk of weight gain is affected by emotional health. Also, determine the influence of age, baseline weight, physical activity (PA), energy intake, and changes in PA and energy intake on the relationship between emotional health and weight gain.

Design.

Prospective cohort.

Setting.

Two metropolitan areas in the Mountain West.

Subjects.

Total of 256 middle-aged, apparently healthy women.

Measures.

Emotional health was assessed using the General Well-Being Schedule. PA was measured using Actigraph accelerometers. Energy intake was measured using 7-day weighed food records. All assessments were taken at baseline and again at the follow-up approximately 2 years later.

Analysis.

Relative risk (RR) was calculated using incidence data.

Results.

With no variables controlled, women with less than positive (LTP) emotional health had 59% greater risk of weight gain (≥ 2 kg) than women with positive emotional health (RR, 1.59; 95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.04–2.44). After adjustments for each potential confounder individually, risk of weight gain did not change significantly. However, adjusting for all of the potential confounders simultaneously weakened the risk of weight gain (RR, 1.43; 95% CI, .93–2.21). Risk of weight gain (≥ 2 kg) was no greater in depressed women compared with their counterparts.

Conclusion.

Middle-aged women with LTP emotional health are at significantly increased risk of weight gain over time compared with women with positive emotional health.
Evaluation of Computerized Free Text Sign-Out Notes
Authors: Weinberg S.T. , Lorenzi N.M. , Waitman L.R. , Campion T.R.
Published: September 2010

Background: Standardization of sign-out, the transfer of patient information and responsibility between inpatient providers at shift change, is a Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goal intended to improve communication and reduce risk of error. Computerized systems with free text data entry and limited structure allow clinicians to generate sign-out notes in a variety of ways.

Objective: The literature lacks a systematic exploration of the range of content generated by users of computerized sign-out systems. The goal of this study was to determine if and how clinicians record standardized sign-out information using a system with free text data entry and limited structure.

Methods: Using qualitative methods, we reviewed free text sign-out notes for 730 patient cases across 39 hospital units at an academic medical center.

Results: Two categories of information expression emerged from analysis: patient treatment— comprised of patient summaries, awareness items, and action items—and care team coordination— consisting of discharge information, contact information, and social concerns. A third category describing the format of sign-out note content, presentation of information, also emerged. Location and structure of information varied, but sign-out note content for some hospital units exhibited specific characteristics and was relatively standardized.

Conclusion: Findings provide a baseline understanding of computerized free text sign-out note content. Sign-out notes contained a synthesis of data from disparate sources. We recommend formalizing existing unit-specific content standardization and system use patterns to reduce sign-out note variability and improve communication.
Aerosol direct radiative forcing during Sahara dust intrusions in the Central Mediterranean
Authors: Perrone M. R. , Bergamo A. , Bellantone V.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. The clear-sky, instantaneous Direct Radiative Effect (DRE) by all and anthropogenic particles is calculated during Sahara dust intrusions in the Mediterranean basin, to evaluate the role of anthropogenic particle's radiative effects and to obtain a better estimate of the DRE by desert dust. The clear-sky aerosol DRE is calculated by a two stream radiative transfer model in the solar (0.3–4 μm) and infrared (4–200 μm) spectral range, at the top of the atmosphere (ToA) and at the Earth's surface (sfc). Aerosol optical properties by AERONET sun-sky photometer measurements and aerosol vertical profiles by EARLINET lidar measurements, both performed at Lecce (40.33° N, 18.10° E) during Sahara dust intrusions occurred from 2003 to 2006 year, are used to perform radiative transfer simulations. Instantaneous values at 0.44 μm of the real (n) and imaginary (k) refractive index and of the of aerosol optical depth (AOD) vary within the 1.33–1.55, 0.0037–0.014, and 0.2–0.7 range, respectively during the analyzed dust outbreaks. Fine mode particles contribute from 34% to 85% to the AOD by all particles. The complex atmospheric chemistry of the Mediterranean basin that is also influenced by regional and long-range transported emissions from continental Europe and the dependence of dust optical properties on soil properties of source regions and transport pathways, are responsible for the high variability of n, k, and AOD values and of the fine mode particle contribution. Instantaneous all-wave (solar+infrared) DREs that are negative as a consequence of the cooling effect by aerosol particles, span the – (32–10) Wm−2 and the – (44–20) Wm−2 range at the ToA and surface, respectively. The instantaneous all-wave DRE by anthropogenic particles that is negative, varies within – (13–7) Wm−2 and – (18–11) Wm−2 at the ToA and surface, respectively. It represents from 41% up to 89% and from 32% up to 67% of the all-wave DRE by all particles at the ToA and surface, respectively during the analysed dust outbreaks. A linear relationship to calculate the DRE by natural particles in the solar and infrared spectral range is provided.
Morpho‐functional modifications of human neutrophils induced by aqueous cigarette smoke extract: comparison with chemiluminescence activity
Authors: Zappacosta B. , Martorana G.E. , Papini S. , Gervasoni J. , Iavarone F. , Fasanella S. , Giardina B. , De Sole P. , Persichilli S.
Published: September 2010

Cigarette smoking plays an important role as a cause of morbidity and mortality in humans, involving respiratory, cardiovascular, digestive and reproductive systems. Tobacco smoke contains a large number of molecules, some of which are proven carcinogens. Although not fully understood, polymorphonuclear leukocytes seem to play a crucial role in the mechanisms by which tobacco smoke compounds are implicated in smoke‐related diseases. In this paper the effects of an aqueous cigarette smoke extract on the expression of adhesion molecules of polymorphonuclear leukocytes together with the changes in the cell morphology have been related to the chemiluminescence activity. The results obtained show that polymorphonuclear leukocytes treated with aqueous cigarette smoke extract are significantly impaired, as suggested by the changes of chemiluminescence activity, of membrane receptors (CD18, CD62), myeloperoxidase expression and of cell morphology. Altogether the present data indicate that treated polymorphonuclear leukocytes are ineffectively activated and therefore unable to phagocytize zymosan particles. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of chemiluminescence method for determination of 10‐hydroxycamptothecin based on luminol–[Ag(HIO6)2]5− reaction in alkaline solution
Authors: Sun Hanwen , Chen Peiyun , Shi Shasha , Li Liqing
Published: September 2010

A novel chemiluminescence (CL) method was developed for the determination of 10‐hydroxycamptothecin(HCPT) based on the CL reaction between [Ag(HIO6)2]5− and luminol in alkaline solution. CL emission of Ag(III) complex–luminol in alkaline medium was very different from that in acidic medium. A possible mechanism of enhanced CL emission was suggested. The enhanced effect of HCPT on CL emission of the [Ag(HIO6)2]5−–luminol system was found. The enhanced degree of CL emission was proportional to HCPT concentration. The effect of the reaction conditions on CL emission was examined. Under optimal conditions, the limit of detection was 6.5 × 10−9 g mL−1. The proposed method was applied for the determination of HCPT in real samples with the recoveries of 93.2–109% with the RSD of 1.7–3.3%. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Capillary electrophoresis analysis of isoniazid using luminol‐periodate potassium chemiluminescence system
Authors: Liu Ying , Fu Zhifeng , Wang Lin
Published: September 2010

A rapid and simple capillary electrophoresis method coupled with chemiluminescent (CL) detection was proposed for analysis of isoniazid (ISO) based on the enhancement effect of ISO to CL emission of luminol‐periodate potassium reaction. Under the optimal conditions, ISO can be assayed in the range of 7.0 × 10−7 to 3.0 × 10−5 g mL−1 (R2 = 0.9990) with a limit of detection of 3.0 × 10−7 g mL−1 (signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3). The whole analysis process can be completed within 2.5 min with a theoretical plate number of 6258. The relative standard deviations of the signal intensity and the migration time were 3.1 and 1.4% for a standard sample at 1.0 × 10−5 g mL−1 (n = 5), respectively. The presented novel strategy was successfully applied to the determination of ISO in commercial pharmaceutical preparations and spiked human serum samples. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bacillus subtilis pgsE (Formerly ywtC) stimulates poly‐γ‐glutamate production in the presence of zinc
Authors: Yamashiro Daisuke , Yoshioka Megumi , Ashiuchi Makoto
Published: September 2010

Poly‐γ‐glutamate (PGA) is a versatile nylon‐like material, and enhanced production of PGA is required for various bio‐industrial applications. In this study, we first examined the effects of available sugars on the production of Bacillus subtilis PGA, and demonstrated the good applicability of pentoses (e.g., D‐xylose). Then, we characterized the pgsE gene of B. subtilis, which encodes a 6.5‐kDa protein of 55 amino acids (PgsE), as a genetic tool for increasing the yield of PGA without changing its structural features (e.g., polymer stereochemistry and molecular size distribution). In the presence of Zn2+, the induction of PgsE tripled the PGA productivity of B. subtilis subsp. chungkookjang. This finding will contribute to the establishment of an improved PGA‐production system. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:226–230. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modulation of viability of live cells by focused ion‐beam exposure
Authors: Shinada Takahiro , Akimoto Takayuki , Zhu Yanwei , Goke Hisa , Ohdomari Iwao
Published: September 2010

Introduction of membrane‐impermeant substances into living cells is the key method to understand contemporary cellular processes by investigating cellular responses and phenotypes. Here, we performed gold ion beam exposure into live cells by using the focused ion beam implantation method, which was originally developed to precisely control semiconductor device performances. We evaluated the viability of the gold‐irradiated cells by measuring the concentration of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is an intracellular energy source produced in the mitochondrial membrane. The viability of the irradiated cells was found to be 20% higher than that of the unirradiated control cells. The atoms might promote the energy generating processes within the mitochondrion. Our results suggest that the viability of living cells can be modulated by accurately controlling the dopant atom numbers. Our technique may be considered as a potential tool in life and medical sciences to quantitatively elucidate the dose‐dependent effects of dopants. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:222–225. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Increasing cellulose accessibility is more important than removing lignin: A comparison of cellulose solvent‐based lignocellulose fractionation and soaking in aqueous ammonia
Authors: Rollin Joseph A. , Zhu Zhiguang , Sathitsuksanoh Noppadon , Zhang Y.‐H. Percival
Published: September 2010

While many pretreatments attempt to improve the enzymatic digestibility of biomass by removing lignin, this study shows that improving the surface area accessible to cellulase is a more important factor for achieving a high sugar yield. Here we compared the pretreatment of switchgrass by two methods, cellulose solvent‐ and organic solvent‐based lignocellulose fractionation (COSLIF) and soaking in aqueous ammonia (SAA). Following pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis was conducted at two cellulase loadings, 15 filter paper units (FPU)/g glucan and 3 FPU/g glucan, with and without BSA blocking of lignin absorption sites. The hydrolysis results showed that the lignin remaining after SAA had a significant negative effect on cellulase performance, despite the high level of delignification achieved with this pretreatment. No negative effect due to lignin was detected for COSLIF‐treated substrate. SEM micrographs, XRD crystallinity measurements, and cellulose accessibility to cellulase (CAC) determinations confirmed that COSLIF fully disrupted the cell wall structure, resulting in a 16‐fold increase in CAC, while SAA caused a 1.4‐fold CAC increase. A surface plot relating the lignin removal, CAC, and digestibility of numerous samples (both pure cellulosic substrates and lignocellulosic materials pretreated by several methods) was also developed to better understand the relative impacts of delignification and CAC on glucan digestibility. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2011; 108:22–30. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Intraoperative assessment of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer
Authors: Layfield D M , Agrawal A , Roche H , Cutress R I
Published: September 2010

Background

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) reduces the morbidity of axillary clearance and is the standard of care for patients with clinically node-negative breast cancer. The ability to analyse the sentinel node during surgery enables a decision to be made whether to proceed to full axillary clearance during primary surgery, thus avoiding a second procedure in node-positive patients.

Methods

Current evidence for intraoperative sentinel node analysis following SLNB in breast cancer was reviewed and evaluated, based on articles obtained from a MEDLINE search using the terms ‘sentinel node’, ‘intra-operative’ and ‘breast cancer’.

Results and conclusion

Current methods for evaluating the sentinel node during surgery include cytological and histological techniques. Newer quantitative molecular assays have been the subject of much recent clinical research. Pathological techniques of intraoperative SLNB analysis such as touch imprint cytology and frozen section have a high specificity, but a lower and more variably reported sensitivity. Molecular techniques are potentially able to sample a greater proportion of the sentinel node, and could have higher sensitivity.