bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Scope of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecological Problems in Kuwait
Authors: Hasan Latifah , Diejomaoh Michael F. , Al-Harmi Jehad , Mohd Asiya T.
Published: July 2010

Objective: To establish an insight into pediatric and adolescent gynecological disorders encountered in a tertiary care center in Kuwait. Subjects and Methods: A retrospective case cohort review of 89 case records of patients under the age of 19 years who were admitted to the Maternity Hospital, Kuwait, from October 2002 through September 2003 was undertaken. For a variety of reasons, 35 patients were excluded and the remaining 54 patients constituted the study population. The patients were divided into 5 groups (A–E): group A = ovarian cysts, group B = disorders of pregnancy, group C = menstrual disorders, group D = gynecological infections and group E = miscellaneous. The clinical presentation and management of patients were analyzed. Results: The following spectrum of gynecological disorders was obtained: 13 ovarian cysts (24.1%), 28 disorders of pregnancy (51.8%), 4 menstrual disorders (7.4%), 2 infections (3.7%) and 7 miscellaneous cases (13.9%). Of the 54 patients, 36 (66.7%) were Kuwaitis and the remaining 18 (33.3%) were non-Kuwaitis. The mean age of the study population was 15.16 years, the median was 15.5 years, and the range was 8–19 years. The mean age of the patients with disorders of pregnancy was 17.52 ± 1.16 years, which is significantly higher than that of groups A, C and E (p = 0.007, 0.0001 and 0.05). The main presenting symptoms at admission were vaginal bleeding: 31 (57.4%), abdominal pain: 17 (31.5%), abdominal mass: 10 (18.5%), and vomiting: 10 (18.5%). Ultrasonography revealed that dermoid cysts were the most frequently encountered ovarian cysts. Patients were hospitalized for 1–7 days. Conclusion: Disorders of pregnancy and ovarian cysts were the most frequently encountered pediatric/adolescent gynecological disorders. It is recommended that there should be a dedicated specialized clinic to guarantee privacy and centralized discreet care for these patients.
Surgical Excision and Immediate Postoperative Radiotherapy versus Cryotherapy and Intralesional Steroids in the Management of Keloids: A Prospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Emad Maryam , Omidvari Shapour , Dastgheib Ladan , Mortazavi Afshin , Ghaem Haleh
Published: July 2010

Objective: To compare the efficacy and tolerability of surgical excision and radiotherapy with those of cryotherapy and intralesional steroid treatment of keloids. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-six patients with a total of 76 keloids were enrolled in this study. Nineteen patients with 44 keloids underwent surgical excision combined with immediate 12-Gy irradiation (group A) while the remaining 9 patients with 32 keloids received multiple sessions of intralesional steroid treatment after cryotherapy which continued until flattening of lesion(s) occurred (group B). Two patients were included in both treatment groups. All patients were followed up at regular intervals for at least 1 year. Results: In both treatment groups, keloids responded well without any major side effect. While patients of group A were all satisfied, those of group B (with a mean number of treatment sessions of 5.84 ± 2.51) experienced more side effects, a more prolonged course, a higher recurrence rate and less satisfaction. Conclusion: This study showed that surgery plus immediate postoperative irradiation was an effective and relatively safe choice for treatment of keloids. Although cryotherapy combined with intralesional steroids was associated with more side effects and higher relapse rates, it could be a good choice for small and newly formed keloids.
Sudden Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss as an Unusual Consequence of Accidental Ingestion of Potassium Hydroxide
Authors: Ciorba A. , Bovo R. , Castiglione A. , Pirodda A. , Martini A.
Published: July 2010

Objective: To discuss the possible etiopathogenetic mechanism of inner ear damage induced by the ingestion of potassium hydroxide (KOH). Clinical Presentation and Intervention: We report the case of a 37-year-old patient with sudden bilateral sensorineural hearing loss after accidental ingestion of a KOH solution. The first ear, nose and throat examination disclosed only mild edema of the upper airways. He was treated in the intensive care unit and prescribed high-dose steroids, proton pump inhibitors and sucralfate for 2 weeks. Unfortunately, there was no recovery of the hearing loss, and no audiogram changes were noticed after 12 months of follow-up.Conclusion: After exploring the possible etiopathogenetic mechanism involved, the authors believe that in this case, a transient severe hemodynamic imbalance can actually be considered to be the most reliable explanation for the inner ear damage and subsequent onset of permanent bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
Multiple Renal Arteries: Variations Demonstrated by Multidetector Computed Tomography Angiography
Authors: Koplay Mustafa , Onbas Omer , Alper Fatih , Gulcan Erim , Kantarci Mecit
Published: July 2010

Objective: To present a case of a rare variation of the renal artery and multiple (7) renal arteries by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 36-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital as a potential living donor for renal transplantation. An MDCT angiography was performed using a 16-detector row CT scanner to obtain a detailed image of vascular structures and associated pathologies. The MDCT clearly revealed the presence of 3 right and 2 left renal arteries arising from the abdominal aorta. Additionally, the accessory renal artery arose from the inferior mesenteric artery on the left side and from the common iliac artery on the right side. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of awareness of renal artery variations if surgical procedures are indicated in this region.
Influence of Smoking Habits on the GA/HbA1c Ratio in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Kotani Kazuhiko , Sakane Naoki , Miyamoto Michiaki , Yamada Kazunori , Taniguchi Nobuyuki
Published: July 2010

Objective: To assess the influence of smoking on glycated albumin (GA) to hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) ratio among type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients. Subjects and Methods: Eighty-one T1DM patients (49 females, 32 males, mean age 48 ± 18 years) were recruited, and data concerning GA/HbA1c ratio and smoking were collected. Results: The median levels of GA and HbA1c were 23.3 and 7.4%, respectively. Independent of age, sex and/or body mass index, the GA/HbA1c ratio in smokers was significantly lower than that in nonsmokers (3.0 vs. 3.3, p < 0.05). Conclusion: The data suggest that smoking might affect the GA/HbA1c ratio among T1DM patients.
Effects of a High-Salt Diet on TRPV-1-Dependent Renal Nerve Activity in Dahl Salt-Sensitive Rats
Authors: Xie Chaoqin , Wang Donna H.
Published: July 2010

Objective: To test the hypothesis that transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 channel (TRPV1)-mediated increases in afferent renal nerve activity (ARNA) and release of substance P (SP) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) from the renal pelvis are suppressed in Dahl salt-sensitive (DS), but not -resistant (DR), rats fed a high-salt (HS) diet. Methods and Results: Male DS and DR rats were given a HS or low-salt (LS) diet for 3 weeks. Perfusion of capsaicin (CAP, 10–6M), a selective TRPV1 agonist, into the left renal pelvis increased ipsilateral ARNA in all groups, but with a smaller magnitude in DS-HS compared to other groups. CAP increased contralateral urine flow in all groups except DS-HS rats. CAP-induced release of SP and CGRP from the renal pelvis was less in DS-HS compared to other groups. Western blot showed that TRPV1 expression in the kidney decreased while expression of neurokinin 1 receptors increased in DS-HS compared to other groups. Conclusion: TRPV1-mediated increases in ARNA and release of SP and CGRP in the renal pelvis are impaired in DS rats fed a HS diet, which can likely be attributed to suppressed TRPV1 expression in the kidney and contributes to increased salt sensitivity.
Contribution of Residual Renal Function on Peritoneal Solute Transport in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Matsuda Akihiko , Matsumura Osamu , Ogawa Tomonari , Tayama Yousuke , Motojima Mizuki , Maeda Tadaaki , Noiri Chie , Kanouzawa Kouichi , Katou Hitoshi , Hasegawa Hajime , Mitarai Tetsuya
Published: July 2010

Background: Increased peritoneal solute transport rate (PSTR) is primarily a consequence of continuous exposure to bioincompatible glucose-based peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions. However, relationships between increasing PSTR and dialysate glucose load remain unclear. As some PD patients with preserved residual renal function do not show increased PSTR despite long-term PD, we examined whether loss of residual renal function is associated with increased PSTR on long-term PD. Methods: We evaluated 35 patients who started PD between 1997 and 2002 and received continuous PD treatment for >6 years. Data included baseline clinical data, residual renal function, urea and creatinine clearance, dialysate glucose load, ultrafiltration, and the use of icodextrin and renin-angiotensin system inhibitors. Peritoneal equilibration test results and data were collected annually for 6 years. Results: Both the glomerular filtration rate and urine volume at 6 years on PD showed significant negative correlations with the dialysate-to-plasma creatinine ratio (D/P Cr) at 6 years (r = –0.716 and r = –0.717, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed only urine volume at 6 years on PD as an independent covariate of the D/P Cr at 6 years on PD. Conclusions: Loss of residual renal function is directly associated with increased PSTR in patients on long-term PD.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Delineates the Ischemic Area at Risk and Myocardial Salvage in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Berry Colin , Kellman Peter , Mancini Christine , Chen Marcus Y. , Bandettini W. Patricia , Lowrey Tracy , Hsu Li-Yueh , Aletras Anthony H. , Arai Andrew E.
Published: July 2010

Background—

The area at risk (AAR) is a key determinant of myocardial infarction (MI) size. We investigated whether magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurement of AAR would be correlated with an angiographic AAR risk score in patients with acute MI.

Methods and Results—

Bright-blood, T2-prepared, steady-state, free-precession MRI was used to depict the AAR in 50 consecutive acute MI patients, whereas infarct size was measured on gadolinium late-contrast-enhancement images. AAR was also estimated by the APPROACH and DUKE angiographic jeopardy scores and ST-segment elevation score. Myocardial salvage was calculated as AAR minus infarct size. Results are mean±SD unless specified otherwise. Patients were 61±12 years of age, 76% had an ST-segment elevation MI, and 20% had a prior MI. All underwent MRI 4±2 days after initial presentation. The relation between MRI and the APPROACH angiographic estimates of AAR was similar (overall size relative to left ventricular mass was 32±12% vs 30±12%, respectively,
P
=0.33), correlated well (
r
=0.78,
P
<0.0001), and had a 2.5% bias on Bland-Altman analysis. The DUKE jeopardy score underestimated AAR relative to infarct size and was correlated less well with MRI (
r
=0.39,
P
=0.0055). ST-segment elevation score underestimated infarct size in 19 subjects (50%) and was not correlated with MRI (
r
=0.27,
P
=0.06). Myocardial salvage varied according to Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow grade at the end of angiography/percutaneous coronary intervention (
P
=0.04), and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow grade was a univariable predictor of myocardial salvage (
P
=0.011). In multivariable analyses, infarct size was predicted by T2-prepared, steady-state, free-precession MRI (
P
<0.0001).

Conclusions—

T2-prepared, steady-state, free-precession MRI delineates the AAR and enables estimation of myocardial salvage when coupled with a measurement of infarct size.
Women and Livelihoods in 1st Century Palestine: Exploring Possibilities
Authors: Orr Sheena
Published: July 2010

As the feminist ‘hermeneutics of suspicion’ has helped to discover more about the nature and possibilities of women in Biblical times so livelihood studies in developing countries have helped to unpack the role of women at the household level. Based on the assumption of recognised similarities of certain features of peasant society over time this article draws on longitudinal studies of women in households in Malawi. It takes observations from ‘livelihood ladders’ and discusses the possible relevance to women in 1st Century Palestine. From this emerges a fascinating picture which points to the possibility that women were more involved and important to the livelihoods process than known sources suggest.
Parity & Untreated Dental Caries in US Women
Authors: Russell S.L. , Ickovics J.R. , Yaffee R.A.
Published: July 2010

While parity (number of children) reportedly is related to tooth loss, the relationship between parity and dental caries has not been extensively investigated. We used path analysis to test a theoretical model that specified that parity influences dental caries levels through dental care, psycho- social factors, and dental health damaging behaviors in 2635 women selected from the NHANES III dataset. We found that while increased parity was not associated with a greater level of total caries (DFS), parity was related to untreated dental caries (DS). The mechanisms by which parity is related to caries, however, remain undefined. Further investigation is warranted to determine if disparities in dental caries among women are due to differences in parity and the likely changes that parallel these reproductive choices.
Filler Debonding & Subhybrid-layer Failures in Self-etch Adhesives
Authors: Van Landuyt K.L. , De Munck J. , Mine A. , Cardoso M.V. , Peumans M. , Van Meerbeek B.
Published: July 2010

The mechanisms behind bond degradation are still largely unknown, in particular with respect to self-etch adhesives. One-step adhesives have been especially documented with problems, such as insufficient polymerization, water-uptake and subsequent plasticization, water- and enzyme-induced nanoleakage, and/or the presence of voids due to phase-separation or osmosis. It was hypothesized that these shortcomings may weaken the adhesive layer and, as such, may jeopardize long-term bonding. In contrast to the control three-step etch & rinse adhesive, the bond strength to dentin of both one-step and two-step self-etch adhesives decreased after six-month water storage. TEM revealed not only that they exhibited filler de-bonding within the adhesive resin layer, due to hydrolysis of the filler-matrix coupling, but also that they failed predominantly directly under the hybrid layer at dentin, in spite of the presence of interfacial droplets and nanoleakage in the adhesive layer. These failures just under the hybrid layer may be attributed to insufficient encapsulation of surface smear.
Collaboration and Confidentiality: Not a Paradox but an Understanding Between Principals and School Counselors
Authors: Williams Rhonda L. , Wehrman Joseph D.
Published: July 2010

Student confidentiality can create challenges for both school counselors and administrators. The article addresses historical and ethical issues surrounding confidentiality in schools as well as methods of working toward collaboration. Developing an understanding of one another’s ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities can lead to a collaborative and cohesive working alliance. The article tailors strategies at the per-service training, district, and individual levels to create an environment in which administrators and counselors can establish, enhance, or rejuvenate a collaborative relationship.
Looking at High School Mathematics Education From the Inside Out
Authors: Schornick Paula
Published: July 2010

United States schools are not providing students with the mathematical background necessary to compete on an international level and become successful adults. Recently, educators and researchers have focused on learning what factors might attribute to this lack of mathematical knowledge. However, few studies have searched for answers from the students themselves.The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of how recent high school graduates, enrolled in college developmental mathematics courses, perceived the mathematics education they received from their K-12 institution.
Dutch perfusion incident survey
Authors: Groenenberg Ingrid , Weerwind Patrick W , Everts Peter AM , Maessen Jos G
Published: July 2010

Background: Cardiopulmonary bypass procedures remain complex, involving many potential risks. Therefore, a nationwide retrospective study was conducted to gain insight into the number of incidents and accidents in Dutch adult perfusion practice.

Methods: An anonymous postal survey (85 questions about hardware, disposables, fluids and medication, air emboli, anticoagulation, practice, and safety measures) was sent to all Dutch perfusionists involved in adult cardiovascular perfusion during 2006 and 2007. To guarantee complete anonymity, respondents were asked to return the survey to a notary who discarded personal information.

Results: The net response rate was 72% and covered 23,500 perfusions. Individual respondents performed 240 ± 103 perfusions during the 2-year study period and had 13.8 ± 8.7 years of practical experience. The incident rate was 1 per 15.6 perfusions and the adverse event rate was 1 per 1,236 perfusions. The three most reported incidents were: (1) persistent inability to raise the activated coagulation time above 400s during perfusion (184 incidents); (2) an allergic or anaphylactic reaction to drugs, fluids, or blood products (114 incidents); and (3) clotting formation in the extracorporeal circuit (74 incidents). Furthermore, pre-bypass safety measures showed no statistically significant association with the reported incidents.

Conclusions: In comparison with data from the recent literature, the reported number of incidents is high. Nevertheless, the adverse outcome rate is well matched to other published surveys. The relatively high response rate conveys the impression that the Dutch perfusionist is vigilant and willing to report incidents. Hence, a web-based Dutch perfusion incident registration system is recommended.
A taxonomy for communication geography
Authors: Adams Paul C.
Published: July 2010

We transmit images of space and place through communication, so space and place are part of the ‘content’ of media. In addition, every communication follows a path from sender(s) to receiver(s) along a particular spatial route between particular places. These observations indicate opposing forms of containment: spaces and places contain communications yet are also contained by communications. We can accept these complementary views as keys to the organization of the various types of research in communication geography. A fifth approach is evident, as well, which transcends the dichotomies of space/place and content/context — an epistemology that is inherently scaleless.
High-Field Magnetic Resonance Imaging Assessment of Articular Cartilage before and after Marathon Running
Authors: Luke Anthony C. , Stehling Christoph , Stahl Robert , Li Xiaojuan , Kay Terry , Takamoto Stephen , Ma Benjamin , Majumdar Sharmilla , Link Thomas
Published: July 2010

Background

There is continuing controversy whether long-distance running results in irreversible articular cartilage damage. New quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques used at 3.0 T have been developed including T1rho (T1ρ) and T2 relaxation time measurements that detect early cartilage proteoglycan and collagen breakdown.

Hypothesis

Marathon runners will demonstrate T1ρ and T2 changes in articular cartilage on MRI after a marathon, which are not seen in nonrunners. These changes are reversible.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Ten asymptomatic marathon runners had 3-T knee MRI scans 2 weeks before, within 48 hours after, and 10 to 12 weeks after running a marathon. The T1ρ and T2 MRI sequences in runners were compared with those of 10 age- and gender-matched controls who had MRI performed at baseline and 10 to 12 weeks.

Results

Runners did not demonstrate any gross morphologic MRI changes after running a marathon. Postmarathon studies, however, revealed significantly higher T2 and T1ρ values in all articular cartilage areas of the knee (P < .01) except the lateral compartment. The T2 values recovered to baseline except in the medial femoral condyle after 3 months. Average T1ρ values increased after the marathon from 37.0 to 38.9 (P < .001) and remained increased at 3 months.

Conclusion

Runners showed elevated T1ρ and T2 values after a marathon, suggesting biochemical changes in articular cartilage, T1ρ values remain elevated after 3 months of reduced activity. The patellofemoral joint and medial compartment of the knee show the highest signal changes, suggesting they are at higher risk for degeneration.
Barriers on the propagation of renewable energy sources and sustainable solid waste management practices in Greece
Authors: Boemi SN , Papadopoulos AM , Karagiannidis A. , Kontogianni S.
Published: July 2010

Renewable energy sources (RES), excluding large hydroelectric plants, currently produce 4.21% of total electricity production in Greece. Even when considering the additional production from large hydroelectric plants, which accounts for some 7.8%, the distance to be covered towards the objective of 20% electricity produced from RES by 2010 and respectively towards 20% of total energy production by 2020 is discouraging. The potential, however, does exist; unfortunately so do serious barriers. On the other hand, solid waste management (SWM) is an issue that generates continuously increasing interest due to the extra amounts of solid waste generated; the lack of existing disposal facilities with adequate infrastructure and integrated management plans, also often accompanied by legislative and institutional gaps. However, socio-economic and public awareness problems are still met in the planning and implementation of RES and SWM projects, together with the lack of a complete national cadastre and a spatial development master plan, specifying areas eligible for RES and SWM development. Specific barriers occur for individual RES and the on-going inclusion of waste-derived renewable energy in the examined palette further increases the complexity of the entire issue. The consolidated study of this broad set of barriers was a main task of the present study which was carried out within the frame of a Hellenic—Canadian research project; the main results will be discussed herein.
Lifetime of household appliances: empirical evidence of users behaviour
Authors: Gutiérrez Ester , Adenso-Díaz Belarmino , Lozano Sebastián , González-Torre Pilar
Published: July 2010

The household appliance industry is one of the most important sectors from both the economic and environmental point of view. A greater understanding of the way in which consumers of these items behave would help to better plan the recycling needs as a function of previous purchase figures. This paper presents the findings of a field survey of Spanish consumer habits with respect to different common household appliances as regards replacement time and the reasons for replacing these appliances. The methodology used is based on survival analysis; specifically, a competing risks model. A Cox proportional hazards model is also used for the sake of comparison. Our results show that as the number of people and/or persons under 18 years in the household increases, the lifetimes of some types of appliance decrease significantly. Competing risk model shows that the probability of replacing the refrigerator due to malfunction and technological obsolescence increases with the increase of family members with a higher education. We also provide the cumulative incidence function for different appliances, which can be used to forecast future demands and electrical and electronic waste generation.
“Now This Is What I Call Learning!” A Case Study of Museum-Initiated Professional Development for Teachers
Authors: Grenier Robin S.
Published: July 2010

This case study sought to understand why educators participate in museum summer institutes and how participation transferred to personal development and professional practice. The study found participation was affected by an interest in and need for learning about a particular time in history, ability to transfer institute content to curricula, the chance to share their experiences with peers, and factors such as museum reputation, design and facilitation of the institute, and institutes’ speakers and presenters. Participants were able to transfer institute experiences into their professional practice as well as to their personal interests by applying learning to what and how they teach, their ability to critically reflect on history and culture, and their personal development. This study suggests further investigations in the area of museum-initiated professional development may increase our understanding of how educators are drawn to such offerings and how the experiences contribute to adult learning and education. Implications for adult education research and museum educator practice are offered.
The Practice of Dialogue in Critical Pedagogy
Authors: Kaufmann Jodi Jan
Published: July 2010

This paper examines dialogue in the higher education classroom. Instigated by my teaching experiences and the paucity of empirical studies examining dialogue in the higher education classroom, I present a re-examination of data I collected in 1996 for an ethnographic study focusing on the experiences of the participants in an ethnic literature course. I return to this data in order to cast further insight into my own teaching. After discussing the findings of this study — speaking (or not) as a cultural practice and translating dialogue to democracy — I reflect on how these findings inform my own teaching practice as an untenured assistant professor.
Caffeine as a photoprotective agent for diminishing phototoxicity
Authors: Yim Tong Szeto  , Tong Henry HY
Published: July 2010

Skin whitening with Chinese herbal medicine has been used in ancient Asia. However, phototoxicity of the active ingredient limits the application. The modified comet assay was used in the current study to detect DNA crosslinking induced by phototoxicity. Result showed that caffeine at 5 µmol/L was able to reduce 5-methoxypsoralen-induced phototoxicity with ultraviolet C (UVC) exposure.
Free fatty acids profile of the fetal brain and the plasma, liver, brain and kidneys of pregnant rats treated with sodium arsenite at mid-organogenesis
Authors: Ross Ivan A , Boyle Thomas , Johnson Widmark D , Sprando Robert L , O'Donnell Michael W , Ruggles Dennis , Kim Chung S
Published: July 2010

Free fatty acids (FFAs) are known to be markers of cellular membrane degradation through lipid peroxidation and are substrates for the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress, due to overproduction of ROS, may facilitate cellular insult by various toxicants. The ability of the rat conceptus to respond to toxic stress may be critical for normal development. In this study, the effects of the environmental toxicant sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) on FFAs were investigated after administering a single oral dose, in water and in a lipid medium, to pregnant rats on gestational day (GD) 10, a time point at mid-organogenesis. NaAsO2was administered in deionized water (AsH2O) or in half and half dairy cream (AsHH) at a dose of 41 mg sodium arsenite (NaAsO2)/kg body weight. Control animals were treated with either dairy cream (HH) or deionized water (H2O). The animals were sacrificed on GD 20. The fetal brain and the maternal liver, brain, plasma and kidneys were harvested. The FFAs were extracted and analyzed by gas chromatography. In the liver, there was an increase of myristic acid (1200%), myristoleic acid (174%), palmitic acid (47%), elaidic acid (456%), oleic acid (165%) and docosahexaenoic acid (224%) in the AsH2O group as compared to the AsHH group. Oleic acid and arachidonic acid were increased by 192% and 900%, respectively, in the AsH2O group as compared to the H2O group, and myristic acid was decreased by 90% in the AsHH group as compared to the HH group. In the maternal brain, myristoleic acid was decreased by 91% in the AsH2O group as compared to the H2O group, and DHA increased by 148% in the AsHH group as compared to the HH group. In the fetal brain, myristic and stearic acids were decreased by 87% and 89%, respectively, in the AsH2O group as compared to the AsHH group. Myristic, stearic and arachidonic acids were increased by 411%, 265%, and 144%, respectively, in the AsHH group as compared to the HH group. There was no effect on the fatty acids concentrations in the kidney or plasma as compared to controls. This study shows that NaAsO2produced a differential effect on the fatty acid profiles in rats. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the role of fatty acids in differential signaling and regulation by either the palmitoylation or myristoylation process of cellular functions in these target organs.
Evolution of Nonprofit Self-Regulation in Europe
Authors: Bies Angela L.
Published: July 2010

This article explores the emergence of nonprofit self-regulation in long-established and emergent nonprofit sectors in Europe. An application of agency, resource dependence, and institutional theories to specific national cases reveals three predominant self-regulation types, compliance, adaptive, and professional models, conditioned on varied market, political, and social antecedents. The compliance system predominates in the Western European cases (Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Austria), where the nonprofit sector is long established and public regulation of the sector is weak. The adaptive model is evidenced in the United Kingdom, where the nonprofit sector is well established but self-regulation design shifts in response to changes in public regulation and the resource environment. The professional self-regulation type occurs when the nonprofit sector and its legal system both are emergent, as in Poland, with self-regulation emerging to shape philanthropic, civil society, and nonprofit practice. An analysis of the European context more broadly reveals that as self-regulation is emerging across a number of contexts, there is evidence of isomorphism.
Protective effects of selenium against sister chromatid exchange induced by AFG 1 in human lymphocytes in vitro
Authors: Alpsoy Lokman , Kotan Elif , Tatar Abdulgani , Agar Guleray
Published: July 2010

Aflatoxins have been shown to be hepatotoxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic to different species of animals. Besides, at low concentrations, Selenium (Se4+) is antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic while it is toxic, mutagenic and carcinogenic at high concentrations. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of Se4+against aflatoxin GAFG1(AFG1) on blood cultures in relation to induction of sister chromatid exchange (SCE). The results showed that at 0.4 and 0.8 parts per million (ppm) concentration of AFG1, the frequency of SCE increased in cultured human lymphocytes. When different concentration of Se4+(0.08 and 8 ppm) were added to AFG1, the frequencies of SCE decreased. Howewer, when 800 ppm concentration of Se4+together with 0.08 ppm AFG1were added to cell division inhibited in the cultures. Results suggested that Se4+could effectively inhibit AFG1-induced SCE. Besides, the protective role of Se4+against AFG1-induced SCE is probably related to its doses.
Outcome of patients with lithium poisoning at a far-east poison center
Authors: Lee Yen-Ching , Lin Ja-Liang , Lee Shen-Yang , Hsu Ching-Wei , Weng Cheng-Hao , Chen Yu-Hui , Yang Chih-Wei , Yen Tzung-Hai
Published: July 2010

Introduction: Lithium is a popular medication for bipolar disorder, but very little work has been done to study Asian patients with lithium poisoning. Methods: A total of 21 out of 7140 poisoned patients were referred for management of lithium poisoning between 2000 and 2009. Patients were stratified according to blood lithium level, that is mild-to-moderate (<2.5 mEq/L) or severe (≥2.5 mEq/L) poisoning. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were obtained for analysis. Mortality rates were also analyzed. Results: There were no significant differences between both groups for the baseline variables such as poisoning patterns, age, sex, smoking habit, alcohol consumption, or medical history of diabetes mellitus or hypertension (p > 0.05). Patients with severe poisoning had a greater distribution of severe neurological symptoms (mild/moderate/ severe: 11.1%/44.4%/44.4% versus 58.35%/16.65%/8.3%, p < 0.05), cardiovascular symptoms (66.6% versus 16.6%, p < 0.05), and renal impairment (urea nitrogen/creatinine: 27.1 ± 17.8/ 1.9 ± 1.3 mg/dL versus 14.1 ± 7.1/ 1.3 ± 0.6 mg/dL, p < 0.05) than patients with mild-to-moderate poisoning. Most patients were treated with saline diuresis (9 patients [100%] with severe poisoning versus 9 patients [75.0%] with mild-to-moderate poisoning, p > 0.05). Hemodialysis was initiated in 2 (22.2%) of 9 and 1 (8.3%) of 12 patients with severe and mild-to-moderate poisoning, respectively (p > 0.05). The treatment was successful and all patients recovered without chronic sequelae. Thus, these favorable outcomes were comparable to the data from other international Poison Centers. Conclusions: Given the excellent outcomes of detoxification protocols, patients undergoing lithium therapy must be closely monitored for its toxicity and treated immediately in case of poisoning.
An analysis of the length of hospital stay after acetaminophen overdose
Authors: Zyoud Sa'ed H , Awang Rahmat , Syed Azhar Syed Sulaiman  , Al-Jabi Samah W
Published: July 2010

Background: Acetaminophen is one of the most commonly encountered medications in self-poisoning, with a high rate of morbidity. The prevalence and characteristics of acetaminophen intoxication associated with long hospital stay in patients are not well defined. Objectives: This study aims to identify the clinical and demographic factors associated with the length of in-hospital stay (LOS), and to evaluate the effect of early treatment of acetaminophen overdose patients (≤8 hours) by intravenous N-acetylcysteine (IV-NAC) on hospital stay. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of hospital admissions for acetaminophen overdose conducted over a period of 5 years from 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2008. Patients were divided into two groups: LS group patients had a long hospital stay (> median hours stay in hospital) and SS group patients had a short hospital stay (≤ median hours stay in hospital). Variables were abstracted from medical records for comparison between the two groups. A total of 20 variables were identified for comparison. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used to test differences between groups depending on the normality of the data. SPSS 15 was used for data analysis. Results: Of the 305 patients, 11 factors were identified in the univariate analysis as associated with LS. Three independent factors were found to be significant predictors of LS in the multivariate analysis. The factors associated with LS were seen among patients with a history of abdominal pain after ingestion of acetaminophen (p = 0.04), who were on IV-NAC administration (p < 0.001) and had an acutely depressed mood (p = 0.003). Late time to NAC infusion of more than 8 hours was associated with LS rather than SS (96 patients [57%] and 6 [24%], respectively; p = 0.003). Conclusion: Patients with long hospital stay have different clinical characteristics compared to patients with short hospital stay. We identified time to IV-NAC administration is a potentially modifiable factor that may lead to prolonged hospital stay. When risk assessment indicates that NAC is required, it is highly recommended that NAC be started in the first hours of admission to reduce the LOS.
The Lived Experience of Nursing Students Who Study Abroad: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Edmonds Michelle Lynn
Published: July 2010

Nurse Researchers need to explore study abroad programs and identify their impact on the development of cultural competence and global perspectives in nursing students. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of nursing students who study abroad and to identify benefits and impediments that may be used to spawn future research and shape existing and future study abroad programs. The research question for this phenomenological study was “What is the lived experience of nursing students who study abroad?” A purposive sample of nursing students was obtained and included participants who completed an elective study abroad nursing course to either England or Dominica between 2006 and 2008. Data collection was obtained from two sources: semi-structured interviews and written reflective travel journals. Four themes became evident as a result of becoming immersed in students’ written and spoken words. Those themes were recognizing, encountering, adapting, and mastering. Findings from this study suggest that there are vast benefits of study abroad programs for nursing students including, but not limited to, increased personal growth, awareness of diverse cultures, adapting despite an unfamiliar environment, and increased self-efficacy. These findings have strong implications for nursing education, practice, and research.
A Cross-Cultural Comparison of Factors Associated With School Bullying in Japan and the United States
Authors: Hilton Jeanne M. , Anngela-Cole Linda , Wakita Juri
Published: July 2010

Researchers in both Japan and in the United States have documented that bullying is a common and potentially damaging form of violence among children. The authors’ review highlights distinct cross-cultural patterns of personal, family, peer, and school characteristics that predict gender differences in bullying and victimization. Cross-cultural patterns confirm that bullying has detrimental and long-lasting effects on both the bullies and their victims. School-based prevention/intervention programs have had mixed success, mainly because some of the risk factors associated with bullying and victimization are beyond the scope of these programs. Bullying and victimization are sometimes associated with psychological disorders and a history of family violence. In these cases, therapeutic intervention is required. Family therapists and other mental health professionals need to be aware of cultural variations in bullying and work collaboratively with schools and families to develop effective treatment plans.
The Parent Consultation Center
Authors: Golden Larry , Cook Katrina
Published: July 2010

The Parent Consultation Center (PCC) is a win—win project that offers free consultation to families about childhood behavior problems and a supervised practice experience for counselors in training. The PCC can be replicated in any school district where there is a nearby university with a counselor education program. This is a guide to starting your own PCC.
Schools, Families, and Communities Affecting the Dropout Rate: Implications and Strategies for Family Counselors
Authors: Ziomek-Daigle Jolie
Published: July 2010

Serious social and economic consequences affect the local and national levels when students drop out of school. Research has shown that collaboration among schools, families, and communities in the academic progression of students can decrease their drop out probability. The author presents findings related to a qualitative study conducted in which interventions were used, which increased parental and family involvement. A specific school/family/community strategy, also known as a graduation team, involved families and communities as an integral component in encouraging and facilitating school completion. Implications for counselors who work with children, families, and the schools will be made as well as recommendations for future research.
A Family Systems Perspective to Recovery From Posttraumatic Stress in Children
Authors: Bernardon Stephanie , Pernice-Duca Francesca
Published: July 2010

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) presents a number of symptoms and adjustment issues for individual children and adolescents, but it is also associated with a myriad of risks for the larger family system. An examination of PTSD from a systemic perspective is crucial to comprehending the development and maintenance of PTSD. For example, a close relationship with a supportive adult enables a child to separate from a traumatic event and successfully persevere in the future. This article reviews the need for a systemic family perspective, including a narrative therapy approach, when considering the development, maintenance, prevention, and resolution of PTSD in children and adolescents.
Cytotoxics compounded sterile preparation control by HPLC during a 16-month assessment in a French university hospital: importance of the mixing bags step
Authors: Castagne Vincent , Habert Hélène , Abbara Chadi , Rudant Eric , Bonhomme-Faivre Laurence
Published: July 2010

The Centralized Chemotherapy Reconstitution Unit (CCRU) of Paul Brousse Hospital Pharmacy Department assessed the reliability of its Cytotoxics Compounded Sterile Products (CCSP) preparation method in order to improve its CCSP quality assurance system. Five cytotoxic drugs — gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil, docetaxel, paclitaxel, and oxaliplatin — were assayed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to determine CCSP concentration. During the observation period, 23,892 CCSP were prepared. Overall, 12,964 preparations contained one of the five analyzed drugs; 7382 (56.9%) out of 12,964 CCSP were analyzed by HPLC; 646 (8.8%) out of 7382 concentrations were outside ± 20% of the prescribed dose; 544 (84.2%) out of 646 were post-administration results and could not be verified. Out of 102 (15.8%) pre-administration results that were re-tested after re-shaking, 94 (92.2%) were found to be acceptable upon re-testing, and 8 (7.8%) were confirmed to be unacceptable and needed to be re-compounded. The 8.8% of tested CCSP were outside ± 20% of the prescribed dose, but extrapolating the results on re-tested CCSP, we can say that our CCSP preparation is reliable with an estimation of only 0.7% of 7382 CCSP analyzed, confirmed as being ± 20% outside the prescribed dose. Nevertheless, this ± 20% magnitude of error should be reduced. Based on pre-administration results, the primary cause of concentration errors appeared to be insufficient mixing of the finished product. Most CCSP dosages occurred after it had been administered, the organization should, therefore, be improved to include testing all CCSP prior to administration. Pharmaceutical companies should endeavor to manufacture compounded injectible drugs in a ‘ready to use’ form and provide vehicles in accurate volumes in order to improve compounding precision.
Drug Use Among African American Teenagers and Their Mental Health
Authors: Ding Kele , Crawley Manuella Barbosa
Published: July 2010

Drug use among African American youth has been found to be lower than in their White counterparts. However, little information exists on the correlation between drug use and mental health, especially among the African American population. This study is an analysis of data collected by the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health to explore the prevalence of use of various drugs among African American youth and its co-occurrence of mental distress and mental disorders in comparison with White youth. Findings confirmed a low level of drug prevalence among the study population, a negative relationship of drug use and psychological distress, and different odds of co-occurring mental disorders as represented by overnight hospital stay for mental problems related to the use of different drugs. Whereas family structure, parental role, and religiosity are considered contributing factors to drug use, how they can explain the contradictory findings of comorbid issues from this study is questionable. Further research to continue this topic is suggested.
Long-Term Treatment of ADHD With Stimulants
Authors: Powell Shelagh G. , Thomsen Per Hove , Frydenberg Morten , Rasmussen Helle
Published: July 2010

Objective: To evaluate 410 real-life patients treated with stimulants and assessed systematically over several years. Method: Naturalistic observational study. A database was compiled on the basis of a review of the medical charts of patients attending a specialized ADHD clinic. Results: The diversity of ADHD patients was evident from the comorbidity, age at start, comedication, and treatment needs over time. Dosages corresponded to guidelines in most patients, but some needed higher dosages or got along on lower dosages for long periods. Age at start and comorbidity influenced dosage, and dosage was associated to differential outcome groups. Conclusion: The study findings underscored the diversity of ADHD patients and that individual factors should be taken into account when tailoring individual treatment schedules. Findings further showed that stimulant dosages are dynamic over time and depend on individual factors, that individual factors influence outcome, and that patients with ADHD should be individually monitored and stimulant dosages adjusted continuously.
Compensating, Resisting, and Breaking: A Meta-Analytic Examination of Reactions to Self-Esteem Threat
Authors: vanDellen Michelle R. , Campbell W. Keith , Hoyle Rick H. , Bradfield Erin K.
Published: July 2010

Much research has identified how people react to receiving threatening information about the self. The purpose of this article is to discuss such experiences in the context of a model of state self-esteem regulation. The authors propose that people engage in one of three regulatory responses to threat: compensation, resistance, and breaking. They conduct a meta-analysis aimed to examine when people engage in each of these three responses to threat and how trait self-esteem affects the selection and success of selecting each regulatory response. Furthermore, the authors test six theoretical models that might explain why responses to ego threat vary across level of trait self-esteem. The models for differences between people with low and high trait self-esteem that fit the data best suggest that (a) self-esteem serves as a resource and (b) there is a self-verification motivation.
Local Fiscal Policies and Urban Wage Structures
Authors: Beeson Patricia , Shore-Sheppard Lara , Watson Tara
Published: July 2010

It has long been recognized that average wages vary strikingly across regions and urban areas in part due to differences in local amenities and fiscal policies. However, analogous differences in wage dispersion remain relatively unexplored. The authors develop a model suggesting that, after accounting for individual characteristics, wage dispersion across income groups should reflect differences in the relative valuation of local amenities and fiscal policies. The authors empirically investigate whether there is a link between local taxes and expenditures and the degree of dispersion in the wage structure and find evidence that such a relationship exists.
Childhood Obesity, Academic Achievement, and School Expenditures
Authors: Gurley-Calvez Tami , Higginbotham Amy
Published: July 2010

The authors examine whether childhood obesity affects student achievement and whether these effects differ by family income level. Although childhood obesity is a national concern, the issue is even more urgent in West Virginia where obesity rates for fifth graders are near 30 percent. Using a 2003-2007 panel of school district data, the authors find evidence that obesity negatively affects reading proficiency in high poverty districts, but obesity rates have little effect in lower poverty districts. The authors estimate that it would require a substantial increase in instructional education spending to offset the obesity effects on academic achievement in high poverty districts.