bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Edible Sesame Oil on Growth of Clinical Isolates of Candida albicans
Authors: Ogawa Toshiko , Nishio Junko , Okada Shinobu
Published: September 2013

Elderly individuals are at increased risk of oral thrush (oral candidiasis) due to decreased saliva secretion. Due to their antimicrobial properties, edible oils can be effective natural agents for oral care. The objective of the present study was to compare the effects of sesame oil, which is widely used for cooking in Asian countries, and two other edible oils on the growth of both mycelial and yeast forms of five clinical isolates of Candida albicans, a causative microorganism of oral thrush. We assessed the effect of each oil in concentrations of 0.078%, 0.156%, and 0.313% on growth of the mycelial forms of the clinical isolates over 24 hr using the crystal violet method. We also evaluated the effect of each oil on growth of the yeast forms by counting the number of viable yeast cells after culturing in the oils for 24 hr. Sesame oil inhibited the growth of both mycelial and yeast forms. Safflower and olive oil also inhibited the growth of both forms of C. albicans but to a lesser extent than sesame oil. The ability to inhibit the growth of the mycelial form correlated with sesame oil concentration. Roasting influenced growth inhibition ability and high-roasted sesame oil most effectively inhibited the yeast form. The growth inhibitory effect differed among the five isolates. We hypothesize that the sesamin and fatty acid components of sesame oil are involved in its antifungal activity.
Characterizing Activity and Muscle Atrophy Changes in Rats With Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Moes Jesse R. , Holden Janean E.
Published: September 2013

The study of neuropathic pain has focused on changes within the nervous system, but little research has described systemic changes that may accompany neuropathic pain. Objective: As part of a larger project characterizing the metabolic, activity, and musculoskeletal changes associated with neuropathic pain, the objective of the current study was to characterize changes in spontaneous activity and skeletal muscle mass using an established animal model of neuropathic pain, the chronic constriction injury (CCI) model. Method: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were used in this pre- and posttest quasi-experimental study. The experimental group ( n = 13) received CCI surgery, while age- and weight-matched rats received sham surgery (SHAM; n = 5). Thermal testing verified the presence of neuropathic pain. Spontaneous cage activity was measured gravimetrically prior to and following CCI ( n = 4). Animals were euthanized and skeletal muscle was dissected and weighed to determine muscle atrophy. Results: Shorter foot withdrawal latency of the ipsilateral hind limb confirmed the presence of thermal hyperalgesia in CCI rats, a sign of neuropathic pain. Weight increased in both CCI and SHAM rats. Spontaneous activity decreased following CCI ligation. Muscles of the ipsilateral hind limb weighed significantly less than contralateral hind limb muscles in CCI rats 2 and 6 weeks after surgery. In addition, CCI rats had smaller ipsilateral hind limb muscles than SHAM rats. Conclusion: Neuropathic pain contributes to skeletal muscle atrophy and decreases in activity in rats.
Inflammation, Functional Status, and Weight Loss During Recovery From Cardiac Surgery in Older Adults
Authors: DiMaria-Ghalili Rose Ann , Sullivan-Marx Eileen M. , Compher Charlene
Published: September 2013

Objective:

To determine the nutritional, inflammatory, and functional aspects of unintentional weight loss after cardiac surgery that warrant further investigation.

Research Methods and Procedures:

Twenty community-dwelling adults > 65 years old undergoing cardiac surgery (coronary artery bypass graft [CABG] or CABG + valve) were recruited for this prospective longitudinal (preoperative and 4–6 weeks postdischarge) pilot study. Anthropometrics (weight, standing height, and mid-arm and calf circumference), nutritional status (Mini-Nutritional Assessment™ [MNA]), appetite, physical performance (timed chair stand), muscle strength (hand grip) and functional status (basic and instrumental activities of daily living), and inflammatory markers (plasma leptin, ghrelin, interleukin [IL]-6, high-sensitivity[hs] C-reactive protein, and serum albumin and prealbumin) were measured.

Results:

Participants who completed the study ( n = 11 males, n = 3 females) had a mean age 70.21 ± 4.02 years. Of these, 12 lost 3.66 ± 1.44 kg over the study period. Weight, BMI, activities of daily living, and leptin decreased over time ( p < .05). IL-6 increased over time ( p < .05). Ghrelin, hs-CRP, and timed chair stand increased over time in those who underwent combined procedures ( p < .05). Grip strength decreased in those who developed complications ( p = .004). Complications, readmission status, and lowered grip strength were found in those with low preoperative MNA scores ( p < .05).

Conclusion:

After cardiac surgery, postdischarge weight loss occurs during a continued inflammatory response accompanied by decreased physical functioning and may not be a positive outcome. The impacts of weight loss, functional impairment, and inflammation during recovery on disability and frailty warrant further study.
Multiple Sclerosis Outcome Assessments Consortium: Genesis and initial project plan
Authors: Rudick Richard A , LaRocca Nicholas , Hudson Lynn D ,   MSOAC
Published: September 2013

The need for improved clinical outcome measures in multiple sclerosis trials has been recognized for two decades, but only recently has the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) created a pathway for qualification of new clinician-reported outcome (ClinRO) assessments. Additionally, drug development in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been extraordinarily active, with numerous disease-modifying drugs now on the market. This shifting therapeutic landscape, along with the unmet need for drugs to treat the progressive forms of MS and the changing expectations of clinicians, patients, and payers, have led to the call for more sensitive and meaningful disability progression measures. In response to these drivers, the Multiple Sclerosis Outcome Assessments Consortium (MSOAC) was launched. A public-private partnership, MSOAC aims to accelerate the development of new therapies for MS by generating new tools for measuring outcomes in clinical trials. At the first annual MSOAC/FDA meeting, a regulatory path was outlined for qualifying a new tool for assessing efficacy in registration trials of MS. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and FDA will provide parallel consultation and review. The consensus approach with engagement by all of the stakeholders, prominently including patients with MS, should also increase acceptance of the measure by clinicians and patients.
Endurance training is feasible in severely disabled patients with progressive multiple sclerosis
Authors: Skjerbæk AG , Næsby M , Lützen K , Møller AB , Jensen E , Lamers I , Stenager E , Dalgas U
Published: September 2013

This study tested whether upper-body endurance training (ET) is feasible and can be performed at sufficient intensity to induce cardiovascular adaptations in severely disabled patients with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Eleven progressive MS patients (6.5 ≤ EDSS ≤ 8.0) scheduled for a four-week inpatient rehabilitation program were randomized to a control group (CON, n = 5) that received standard individualized MS rehabilitation or an intervention group (EXE, n = 6) that in addition received 10 sessions of predominantly upper-body ET. One patient dropped out of the EXE group (drop-out rate: 1/6~17%) and no adverse events were recorded. The EXE group completed on average 9.3±0.8 sessions (~96.0±5%). During the ET sessions an average heart rate of 93.9±9.3beats*min–1 were sustained corresponding to 91.6±6.8% of the maximal pre-intervention heart rate. In the EXE group a trend toward a time*group interaction was seen for VO2peak ( p = 0.06). ET is feasible in severely disabled patients with progressive MS and it can probably be performed at sufficient intensity to induce cardiovascular adaptations.
Circulating dendritic cells of multiple sclerosis patients are proinflammatory and their frequency is correlated with MS-associated genetic risk factors
Authors: Thewissen Kristof , Nuyts Amber H , Deckx Nathalie , Wijmeersch Bart Van , Nagels Guy , D’hooghe Marie , Willekens Barbara , Cras Patrick , Eijnde Bert O , Goossens Herman , Van Tendeloo Viggo FI , Stinissen Piet , Berneman Zwi N , Hellings Niels , Cools Nathalie
Published: September 2013

Background:

The role of the adaptive immune system and more specifically T cells in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS) has been studied extensively. Emerging evidence suggests that dendritic cells (DCs), which are innate immune cells, also contribute to MS.

Objectives:

This study aimed to characterize circulating DC populations in MS and to investigate the contribution of MS-associated genetic risk factors to DCs.

Methods:

Ex vivo analysis of conventional (cDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) was carried out on peripheral blood of MS patients ( n = 110) and age- and gender-matched healthy controls ( n = 112).

Results:

Circulating pDCs were significantly decreased in patients with chronic progressive MS compared to relapsing–remitting MS and healthy controls. While no differences in cDCs frequency were found between the different study groups, HLA-DRB1*1501+ MS patients and patients not carrying the protective IL-7Rα haplotype 2 have reduced frequencies of circulating cDCs and pDCs, respectively. MS-derived DCs showed enhanced IL-12p70 production upon TLR ligation and had an increased expression of the migratory molecules CCR5 and CCR7 as well as an enhanced in vitro chemotaxis.

Conclusion:

DCs in MS are in a pro-inflammatory state, have a migratory phenotype and are affected by genetic risk factors, thereby contributing to pathogenic responses.
Effects of self-construal and its relationship with subjective well-being across cultures
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayano , Kim Min-Sun
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study is to test cross-cultural predictions of the associations between goal pursuits and subjective well-being among 601 college students (200 in Japan and 401 in the United States). The results indicated that interdependence in all cultures was associated with socially oriented subjective well-being. In the United States, it was also correlated with social goal pursuit. However, independence in the United States correlated with individual-oriented subjective well-being, while in Hawaii, it also correlated with hedonic goal pursuit. Discussion of these results and their implications are provided.
The Functional Well-Being Scale: A measure of functioning loss due to well-being-related barriers
Authors: Evers Kerry E , Castle Patricia H , Fernandez Anne C , Prochaska James O , Prochaska Janice M , Paiva Andrea L
Published: September 2013

The objective of this study was to develop the Pro-Change Functional Well-Being Scale, a measure that provides an informative evaluation of general functioning loss due to well-being-related barriers. Exploratory and confirmatory analyses on data from 642 individuals supported a one-factor solution with good model fit. A strong positive correlation existed between the Pro-Change Functional Well-Being Scale and Well-Being Assessment for Productivity. Initial construct validity was demonstrated by predictable relationships between functioning loss and other measures of health and well-being. This initial psychometric evidence suggests that the Pro-Change Functional Well-Being Scale is a reliable and valid assessment of functioning loss due to common well-being-related barriers.
Short Health Anxiety Inventory: Factor structure and psychometric properties in Spanish adolescents
Authors: Morales Alexandra , Espada José P , Carballo José L , Piqueras José A , Orgilés Mireia
Published: September 2013

The Short Health Anxiety Inventory is a common screening tool for assessing health anxiety among adolescents; however, its psychometric properties and internal structure have not been evaluated within a Spanish-speaking population. The goodness of fit of four models of the latent structure of the Short Health Anxiety Inventory was tested by using confirmatory factor analysis in a sample of 832 Spanish secondary school adolescents. Based on these results, the reliability of the original two-factor model was tested. Differences in health anxiety by gender and age were also examined. The results support use of the Spanish version of the Short Health Anxiety Inventory by researchers and clinicians among Spanish adolescents.
Beyond ideal speech situations: Adapting to communication asymmetries in health care
Authors: Gillespie Alex , Reader Tom , Cornish Flora , Campbell Catherine
Published: September 2013

Inclusive, unconstrained and honest communication is widely advocated as beneficial and ethical. We critically explore this assumption by reflecting upon our research in acute care, informal care and public health. Using Habermas’ ideals of dialogue to conceptualise ideal speech, we concur with observations that health care is often characterised by intractable exclusions and constraints. Rather than advocating implementing the ideals of dialogue, however, we examine how people adapt to these difficult and intransigent contexts. Non-ideal contexts, we find, sometimes call for non-ideal responses. Deception and furthering personal interests, and thus departing from the ideals of dialogue, can be adaptive responses.
HIV/AIDS, beersellers and critical community health psychology in Cambodia: A case study
Authors: Lubek Ian , Lee Helen , Kros Sarath , Wong Mee Lian , Van Merode Tiny , Liu James , McCreanor Tim , Idema Roel , Campbell Catherine
Published: September 2013

This case study illustrates a participatory framework for confronting critical community health issues using ‘grass-roots’ research-guided community-defined interventions. Ongoing work in Cambodia has culturally adapted research, theory and practice for particular, local health-promotion responses to HIV/AIDS, alcohol abuse and other challenges in the community of Siem Reap. For resource-poor communities in Cambodia, we recycle such ‘older’ concepts as ‘empowerment’ and ‘action research’. We re-imagine community health psychology, when confronted with ‘critical’, life-and-death issues, as adjusting its research and practices to local, particular ontological and epistemological urgencies of trauma, morbidity and mortality.
A socio-psychological perspective on community participation in health during the Unidad Popular government: Santiago de Chile, from 1970 to 1973
Authors: Hadjez-Berrios Esteban
Published: September 2013

Community participation in health has conventionally been described and analysed from a non-historical perspective, neglecting the central role that disadvantaged communities have played in the construction of health institutions in our societies, alienating collective health from its historical subject. From a socio-psychological perspective, this study explores the experiences of community participation in health during the Unidad Popular government in Santiago de Chile from 1970 to 1973, evidencing a radical pedagogical process inside poor urban settlements, aimed to transform Chilean classist health institutions. These findings contribute to a critical understanding of community participation in health, conceived as a dialectic and transformative action.
Patient neglect in 21st century health-care institutions: A community health psychology perspective
Authors: Reader Tom W , Gillespie Alex , Mannell Jenevieve
Published: September 2013

Despite the technological and organisational advances of 21st century health-care systems, care scandals and burgeoning complaints from patients have raised concerns about patient neglect in hospitals. This article reviews the concept of patient neglect and the role of community health psychology in understanding its occurrence. Patient neglect has previously been conceptualised as a problem associated with hospital staff attitudes and behaviours, with regulation and training cited as solutions. Yet, a community health psychology perspective shows that the wider symbolic, material and relational aspects of care are crucial for understanding why patient neglect occurs and for outlining new solutions to augment existing interventions.
Participatory research with youth: Idealising safe social spaces or building transformative links in difficult environments?
Authors: Vaughan Cathy
Published: September 2013

Freire’s theory of social change informs analysis of youth-focused participatory research, with researchers describing links between participation and young people’s critical thinking. There is less analysis of how youth move from the safe social space of a participatory research project to take health-promoting action in difficult real-world contexts. This article analyses a project conducted with Papua New Guinean youth, disrupting assumptions that critical thinking inevitably leads to critical action on health. Findings suggest the need to shift the focus of participatory research from supporting ‘safe social spaces’ to supporting ‘transformative action in context’ to concretely contribute to improving youth health.
Challenging empowerment: AIDS-affected southern African children and the need for a multi-level relational approach
Authors: Ansell Nicola
Published: September 2013

Critics of empowerment have highlighted the concept’s mutability, focus on individual transformation, one-dimensionality and challenges of operationalisation. Relating these critiques to children’s empowerment raises new challenges. Drawing on scholarship on children’s subjecthood and exercise of power, alongside empirical research with children affected by AIDS, I argue that empowerment envisaged as individual self-transformation and increased capacity to act independently offers little basis for progressive change. Rather it is essential to adopt a relational approach that recognises the need to transform power relationships at multiple levels. This analysis has implications for our wider understanding of empowerment in the 21st century.
Factorial invariance of pregnancy-specific anxiety dimensions across nulliparous and parous pregnant women
Authors: Westerneng Myrte , de Cock Paul , Spelten Evelien R , Honig Adriaan , Hutton Eileen K
Published: September 2013

The 10-item version of the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire–Revised was developed based on a sample of nulliparous women. Whether this measure is also a valuable tool for future research on pregnancy-specific anxiety is unclear. Our study tested for invariance of this measure across nulliparous women and parous women by using a dataset of 6004 women pregnant up to 35 weeks. Results showed that whereas the factor structure of the 10-item version of the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire–Revised was noninvariant, removing item 8 from the measure created a measure with invariant factor loadings that can be used for all pregnant women.
Understanding medical students’ views of chronic fatigue syndrome: A qualitative study
Authors: Stenhoff Alexandra Laura , Sadreddini Shireen , Peters Sarah , Wearden Alison
Published: September 2013

Chronic fatigue syndrome receives little attention in the medical curriculum. This study explores UK medical students’ knowledge of and attitudes towards chronic fatigue syndrome. Semi-structured interviews (average length 22 minutes) were conducted with 21 participants (7 females and 14 males) in years 3 ( n = 4), 4 ( n = 11) and 5 ( n = 6) of their studies. Inductive thematic analysis taking a realist perspective produced three themes: limited knowledge, influences on attitudes and training needs. Students acquired their knowledge and attitudes largely from informal sources and expressed difficulty understanding chronic fatigue syndrome within a traditional biomedical framework. Incorporating teaching about chronic fatigue syndrome into the medical curriculum within the context of a biopsychosocial understanding of illness could encourage more positive attitudes towards chronic fatigue syndrome.
A coupled computational fluid dynamics and analytical model to simulate airborne contaminant transmission in cabins
Authors: Mazumdar Sagnik , Long Zhenwei , Chen Qingyan
Published: September 2013

A coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and analytical model is presented for accurate and time-efficient prediction of transient airborne contaminant transmission in full-length airliner cabins. The CFD model was used at locations near the contaminant source, while the analytical model was used for the rest of the cabin. The CFD and analytical model coupling used two different methods for solving the transient contaminant flux. One method forced an outflow condition at the interface of the CFD; this analytical model is less accurate but easier to implement in commercial CFD software. The other method that iteratively solved the contaminant flux at the interface is more accurate but is computationally intensive. A procedure to analytically calculate the contaminant concentration using the transient contaminant flux condition at the interface was also developed.
Thermal comfort characteristics in naturally ventilated, residential apartments in a hot-dry climate of India
Authors: Udaykumar Anupama , Rajasekar E. , Venkateswaran Rajan
Published: September 2013

This paper deals with analysing the thermal comfort performance of apartment units in a typical hot, dry climatic region, through real-time monitoring and dynamic simulation adopting Environmental Systems Performance – research (ESP-r) thermal simulation software. Real-time monitoring of thermal comfort parameters was carried out in representative units for a period of six months between January and June (winter to summer). The measured data were analysed and used to validate the simulated results obtained from the ESP-r model, which was subsequently used to establish the prevailing comfort characteristics and the thermal comfort response of the residential units. Thermal comfort predictions through Fanger’s expected Predicted Mean Vote (ePMV), Tropical Summer Index (TSI) and comfort temperature ( Tcomf) exhibited a significant variation. During summer, ePMV and Tcomf estimated higher amount of heat discomfort (50% and 62%, respectively) compared to TSI index, which estimated 76% tolerable conditions when an air velocity of 1 m/s is available. During winter, TSI index indicated the prevalence of higher cold discomfort compared to the other indices. The results obtained have been used to develop predictive formulae for assessing thermal comfort for this building type, which can be used to arrive at quick thermal comfort estimates for any proposed design in a similar context.
Determination of the emissions of volatile organic compounds from oriented strand boards and evaluation by the German AgBB scheme
Authors: Wilke Olaf , Wiegner Katharina , Scheffer Harald , Brödner Doris , Kalus Sabine
Published: September 2013

There has been an increasing use of oriented strand boards (OSBs) for the construction of floors, ceilings and walls of buildings. In Germany and other European countries, OSBs are mainly produced from pine wood ( Pinus sylvestris). In response to complaints about the odour and irritation of mucous membranes in connection with the use of OSBs, samples of OSBs were bought from do-it-yourself stores to test their volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions by using emission test chambers. The boards emitted predominantly monoterpenes, aldehydes, acids and acetone. Aldehydes are generated during the production process by the oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid. Pine wood, compared with other wood species, contains more unsaturated fatty acids. Of the six acquired OSBs, four boards from three manufacturers would not meet the requirements of the German AgBB (Ausschuss zur gesundheitlichen Bewertung von Bauprodukten, Committee for Health Evaluation of Building Products), mainly because of the emissions of unsaturated aldehydes. These compounds have low LCI values (lowest concentration of interest) and are therefore problematic substances based on a health-related evaluation of building products according to the AgBB scheme.
Predictive modelling of the effect of fresh air rate on dynamic variation of CO2 in the waiting room of a railway station
Authors: Ma Weiwu , Wang Xiaozong , Wei Jin , Li Liqing , Yu Leimu , Ye Yanli , Zhang Ling
Published: September 2013

This paper reports the investigation of the relationship between CO2 concentration and passenger quantity in the waiting room of a railway station. In situ survey was conducted to collect data on purchased passenger tickets, train schedule and arrival times at Changsha railway station and to establish modelling results. The predictive model is based on the established passenger flow pattern and dynamic governing equations of CO2 concentration as a reference indicator of indoor air quality (IAQ) in the waiting room at the railway station. This work indicates that the CO2 source is associated with train passengers, and the air change rates of natural and mechanical ventilation are predominant factors that govern the indoor CO2 concentration in the waiting room. In addition, the air change rate of natural ventilation ranging from 0.3 h−1 to 0.8 h−1 would not meet the IAQ requirement in most conditions, whereas the air change rate of mechanical ventilation of n = 2 h−1 can meet the IAQ requirement in various situations.
Wide excision in right-sided colon cancer is associated with decreased survival
Authors: Olofsson F. , Buchwald P. , Elmståhl S. , Syk I.
Published: September 2013

Background and Aims:

Nodal involvement is the most important prognostic factor in colon cancer. Although theoretically appealing, it is not known if wider mesenteric excision improves the oncological result. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate whether wider mesenteric excision yields a superior oncological result.

Material and Methods:

Depending on the resection length, 333 cases of locally radical right-sided hemicolectomies due to adenocarcinoma were compared for perioperative morbidity and mortality, disease-free survival, and long-term survival.

Results:

Postoperative mortality was significantly higher in the quartile with the longest resections, p = 0.003. In a multivariate analysis adjusted for age, stage, emergency operation, adjuvant chemotherapy, and year of operation, a negative relationship between resection length and 5-year overall survival was noted, p = 0.01. No differences in the causes of death or in the incidence of local or distant recurrences were noted between groups.

Conclusions:

Wider excision in right-sided hemicolectomies was not associated with any oncological benefit but an increased postoperative mortality and a decreased 5-year overall survival. These findings may suggest consideration to perform wide mesenteric resections routinely. Further research is warranted to define which patients benefit from wider resections.
Closure of skin incision after thyroidectomy through a supraclavicular approach: a comparison between tissue adhesive and staples
Authors: Yang Y.-L. , Xiang Y.-Y. , Jin L.-P. , Pan Y.-F. , Zhou S.-M. , Zhang X.-H. , Qu J.-M.
Published: September 2013

Background:

The objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness and cosmetic results of tissue adhesive or surgical staples in thyroidectomy through a supraclavicular incision.

Methods:

This was a prospective, randomized study of consecutive patients undergoing thyroidectomy by a supraclavicular approach. Eligible patients were randomized into two groups: one group had the incision closed with tissue adhesive (the experimental group) and the other with surgical staples (the control group). The main outcomes included operative time, early postoperative pain measured by Visual Analog Scale, incidence of wound dehiscence and infection, perceived cosmetic outcome, and overall patient satisfaction by using Patient Satisfaction Assessment Form.

Results:

There were 151 consecutive patients assessed for eligibility, and 132 patients were enrolled over 22 months. The clinical characteristics of the patients in the two groups were similar. Main outcomes were assessed in the first 24 h postoperatively, the first month, and the third month postoperatively. Operation time was longer in the experimental group ( P = 0.027). Mean Visual Analog Scale scores for pain were lower in the experimental group in the early postoperative period ( P < 0.001). No patients developed surgical site infections or wound dehiscence. Lower scores for scar assessment and higher overall satisfaction levels at the first month after surgery were found in the experimental group compared to the control group ( P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups at the third month postoperatively in perceived cosmetic result ( P = 0.052) or overall satisfaction ( P = 0.059).

Conclusions:

Tissue adhesive is effective and reliable in skin closure for thyroid surgery. While this closure may take somewhat longer to perform, it leads to less postoperative pain, more acceptable wound cosmesis, and higher patient satisfaction levels in short postoperative follow-up.
An 8-year follow-up study of 221 consecutive hip fracture patients in Finland: analysis of reoperations and their direct medical costs
Authors: Lüthje P. , Helkamaa T. , Nurmi-Lüthje I. , Kaukonen J.-P. , Kataja M.
Published: September 2013

Background:

Some hip fracture patients need one or more reoperations because of complications following initial operative treatment.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to identify all further surgical interventions in a cohort of patients with hip fractures over a period of 8 years after index fracture. Immediate direct costs of these reoperations were also calculated.

Material and Methods:

This retrospective study investigated 221 consecutive patients with hip fractures operated on at two different hospitals in southeastern Finland. The study period in hospital A was from 1 February 2003 to 31 January 2004, and in hospital B from 1 February 2003 to 30 April 2004. About 50% were femoral neck fractures, 41% trochanteric fractures, and 9% subtrochanteric fractures. Patients’ medical records were checked from the hospital records and confirmed manually. Short- and long-term complications were recorded. Survival analysis was performed using a life-table method. The actual costs for reoperations and other further procedures for each patient were calculated using diagnosis-related groups–based costs for both hospitals in 2012.

Results:

A total of 20 patients (9%) needed reoperations. Overall, 10 patients (8.9%) with a femoral neck fracture (n = 112), 8 patients (8.7%) with trochanteric fracture (n = 92), and 2 patients (10.5%) with subtrochanteric fracture (n = 19) were reoperated on. The median interval between the primary operation of the acute hip fracture (n = 20) and the first reoperation was about 300 days (range: 2 weeks to 82 months). Among the women reoperated on, the excess mortality was lower than among those undergoing a single operation. The median costs of treatment per patient with one or more reoperations were €13,422 in hospital A (range: €1616–€61,755), €11,076 in hospital B (range: €1540–€17,866), and €12,850 in the total study group (p = 0.43). In the case of infections (3 patients), the mean costs per patient were €28,751 (range: €11,076–€61,755).

Conclusions:

Almost 10% of hip fracture patients required reoperations, and these reoperations caused significant direct costs to health care. However, direct costs account for only approximately 25% of the first year’s total costs. These costs should be taken into account when evaluating the economics of hip fractures and the burden of health care.
Toward technology-supported surgical training: the potential of virtual simulators in laparoscopic surgery
Authors: Beyer-Berjot L. , Aggarwal R.
Published: September 2013

Background and Aims:

The mastery of manual skills that are indispensable for the performance of surgical tasks is a competence specific to surgery. One way of facilitating this acquisition is to move the training out of the operating room and all of its restrictions. Surgical training out of the operating room, also called simulation, has spread widely in the past decade, especially in laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery.

Material and Methods:

This review assesses the role of virtual reality (VR) simulators in laparoscopic surgery and their actual impact on technical skills.

Results and Conclusions:

There is a wealth of simulators, ranging from low- to high-fidelity simulators incorporating haptic feedback. They comprise basic tasks, procedural modules, and full procedures. Virtual reality simulators have shown acceptable fidelity and validity evidence. Moreover, training out of the operating room on virtual reality simulators has demonstrated its positive impact on basic skills during real laparoscopic procedures in patients. The benefit of virtual reality over simple video trainers remains unclear for teaching basic skills. However, virtual reality simulators provide automatic feedback that permitted to design structured competency-based curricula and allow deliberate practice. Finally, advanced procedures and patient-specific models have been designed on virtual reality simulators, and further investigations are still awaited to appraise their educational value.
The use of pre- or postoperative antibiotics in surgery for appendicitis: A systematic review
Authors: Daskalakis K. , Juhlin C. , Påhlman L.
Published: September 2013

Background and Aim:

The aim of this study was to review the literature regarding the use of pre- and/or postoperative antibiotics in the management of appendicitis, using data obtained from PubMed and the Cochrane Library.

Material and Methods:

A literature search was conducted using the terms “appendicitis” combined with “antibiotics.” Studies were selected based on relevance for the evidence on prophylactic and postoperative treatment with regard to the route and duration of drug administration and the findings of surgery.

Results:

Patients with acute appendicitis should receive preoperative, broad-spectrum antibiotics. The use of postoperative antibiotics is only recommended in cases of perforation, and treatment should then be given intravenously, for a minimum period of 3–5 days for adult patients, until clinical signs such as fever resolve and laboratory parameters such as C-reactive protein curve and white blood cell (WBC) start to decline.

Conclusion:

Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended in all patients with acute appendicitis, whereas postoperative antibiotics only in cases of perforation.
Family perceptions of the usability and value of chronic disease web-based patient portals
Authors: Byczkowski Terri L , Munafo Jennifer K , Britto Maria T
Published: September 2013

The objective of this study was to understand perceptions of the usability and value of web-based patient portals among parents of children with a chronic condition (diabetes, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and cystic fibrosis). The design was a cross-sectional telephone survey with semistructured interviews and was conducted at a tertiary children’s hospital. Parent ratings of their experiences with and the value of a web-based portal and reasons for not using the portal were ascertained. Most parents agreed that the portal information was accurate, timely, and useful. Confidentiality and seeing worrisome health-related information about their child was not a major concern, and parents felt that the portal helped to improve their understanding of and ability to manage their child’s condition. In conclusion, the results of this study support the notion that web-based patient portals have the potential to be a useful tool for parents of children with a chronic disease.
Civil society sphericules: Emerging communication platforms for civic engagement in Tanzania
Authors: Tufte Thomas
Published: September 2013

This article explores the communicative practice of a Tanzanian NGO, Femina. Based on a tripartite model of engagement (Madianou, 2012) integrating speech, action and understanding, and drawing on fieldwork on the communication practices of Femina, I critically assess the forms of civic engagement the organization strategizes about and seeks to articulate amongst Tanzanian youth. Situated in the ‘perverse confluence’ ( Dagnino, 2011 ) between neoliberal and radical democratic agendas in the communicative practices of civil society-driven media platforms, Femina navigates between identities as an NGO, a social movement and a media initiative. In the context of the growing literature on social networking sites and their affordances, dynamics and structures, the case of Femina illustrates how a civil society sphericule emerges within the dynamic co-evolution of new and old media platforms. The study is furthermore an example of the difficult shift in civil society practice, from service provision to an agenda of public service monitoring, social accountability and community engagement.
The National Museum of Immigration History (Paris, France), neo-colonialist representations, silencing, and re-appropriation
Authors: Labadi Sophia
Published: September 2013

This article focuses on the Cité Nationale de l’Histoire de l’Immigration (National Museum of Immigration History – CNHI, Paris), the only national museum fully dedicated to the celebration of the positive contributions of immigrants to France. Using postcolonial theories and the notion of museum friction, it charts the conflicting processes and decisions at play in, first, the translation of the aims and goal of the CNHI into the museography and interpretation of the collections. Second, it analyses critically the usages made of this heritage space, particularly its unauthorised occupation (one of the longest unauthorised occupations of a museum in France) by illegal workers for four months, from October 2010 to January 2011. I wrote this article from the viewpoint of a second generation immigrant, one of the key targeted visitors of the CNHI. This article is also based on participant observation of each aspect of this heritage space, careful observation of its uses, and semi-structured interviews conducted with the CNHI staff, illegal workers who occupied this heritage space, and human rights organisations which supported its occupation.
Associations in criminal behaviour for married males and females at high risk of offending
Authors: Zoutewelle-Terovan Mioara V , van der Geest Victor , Bijleveld Catrien , Liefbroer Aart C
Published: September 2013

Using a sample of males and females at high risk of offending, this study examines associations in criminal behaviour for married partners, over and above pre-existing levels of assortative mating in offending, as well as other individual and family characteristics. Interactions between partner’s criminal offending were analysed during first marriage using a longitudinal prospective design. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis for multiple failure-time data showed that both males and females have an immediate increased likelihood of committing an offence when the partner offends. Prolonged associations in offending were observed only for females up until the third month after their partner offended. For both males and females, results showed no long-term associations in partner’s offending.
Physical and mechanical characterizations of recyclable insole product based on new 3D textile structure developed by the use of a patented vertical-lapping process
Authors: Messaoud Mouna , Vaesken Antoine , Aneja Arun , Schacher Laurence , Adolphe Dominique C , Schaffhauser Jean-Baptiste , Strehle Patrick
Published: September 2013

This paper deals with physical properties and compression behavior of new insole structure. This insole is developed based on a new 3D fibrous structure made of recycled polyester nonwoven (110 g/cm2) laminated with different textile materials by the use of a patented vertical-lapping process (VERTILAP®). To characterize physical and mechanical properties of the 3D structures, a methodology has been set up and new testing methods have been developed. The results of this study have shown interesting properties in terms of comfort and compression behavior (under static and dynamic loading). It has been observed that the 3D structure laminated with hemp woven fabric has the highest water absorbency, the highest thermal conductivity and the coolest touch effect compared to nonwoven made of a blend of polyester and viscose fibers. The compression behavior of the insole has been influenced by the physical properties of the 3D structure. The insoles developed in this work have a viscoelastic behavior with cushioning properties and can resist up to 218 kPa at 50% of deformation under static compression conditions and dissipate sufficient energy (higher than 180 N.mm) which allows the relieve of the foot pressure and distributes loads more evenly on the soft parts of the feet in use case.
Reinforcement of steel-slag asphalt concrete using polypropylene fibers
Authors: Amuchi Majid , Abtahi Sayyed Mahdi , Koosha Behrooz , Hejazi Sayyed Mahdi , Sheikhzeinoddin Hossein
Published: September 2013

Steel-slag asphalt concrete (SSAC) is a type of asphalt mixture that uses slag particles instead of conventional aggregates. It has been proven that replacement of course aggregates by steel-slag particles is the best composition of SSAC mixtures. Despite benefits derived from SSAC, like higher resistance to rutting, the mixture has some disadvantages. Higher optimized asphalt content is the major disadvantage of SSAC compared to ordinary AC mixtures. In order to solve this problem, it is necessary to decrease the bitumen absorption of slag aggregates. One approach that can be taken to increase the viscosity of the bitumen and/or to decrease the effective surface of slag aggregates is reinforcement of asphalt mixtures by using polypropylene (PP) fibers. The main aim of this paper is, therefore, to introduce a novel AC mixture, i.e. PP fiber-reinforced steel-slag asphalt concrete. In this respect, the optimized asphalt content was identified by using Marshall method. Analysis of results shows that the treatment reinforced with 2% of 19 mm PP fibers experiences a decrease in optimized asphalt content about 15% in comparison with the neat mixture, i.e. SSAC sample. Moreover, indirect tensile strength and resilient modulus (MR) have increased.
Race, Poverty, and Exclusionary School Security
Authors: Kupchik Aaron , Ward Geoff
Published: September 2013

As violence and crime within and around U.S. schools has drawn increased attention to school security, police, surveillance cameras, and other measures have grown commonplace at public schools. Social scientists commonly voice concern that exclusionary security measures are most common in schools attended by poor and non-White students, yet there is little empirical basis for assessing the extent of differential exposure, as we lack research on how exclusionary measures are distributed relative to school and student characteristics. To address this gap in the research, we use nationally representative school-level data from the School Survey on Crime and Safety to consider the security measures employed in elementary, middle, and high schools. Results indicate that while security measures are ubiquitous in U.S. high schools, those considered more exclusionary are concentrated in elementary, middle, and high schools attended by non-White and/or poorer students.
Evaluation and Treatment of Gastric Stimulator Failure in Patients With Gastroparesis
Authors: Harrison Nancy Salloum , Williams Patrick A. , Walker Micah R. , Nikitini Yana , Helling Thomas S. , Abell Thomas L. , Lahr Christopher J.
Published: September 2013

Objective. This study evaluates treatment of gastroparesis patients refractory to gastric electrical stimulation (GES) therapy with surgical replacement of the entire GES system. Summary Background Data. Some patients who have symptomatic improvement with GES later develop recurrent symptoms. Some patients improve by simply altering pulse parameter settings. Others continue to have symptoms with maximized pulse parameters. For these patients, we have shown that surgical implantation of a new device and leads at a different gastric location will improve symptoms of gastroparesis. Methods. This study evaluates 15 patients with recurrent symptoms after initial GES therapy who subsequently received a second GES system. Positive response to GES replacement therapy is evaluated by symptoms scores for vomiting, nausea, epigastric pain, early satiety, and bloating using a modified Likert score system, 0 to 4. Results. Total symptom scores improved for 12 of 15 patients with GES replacement surgery. Total score for the replacement group decreased from 17.3 ± 1.6 to 13.6 ± 3.7 with a difference of 3.6 ( P value = .017). This score is compared with that of the control group with a preoperative symptom score of 15.8 ± 3.6 and postoperative score of 12.3 ± 3.5 with a difference of 3.5 ( P value = .011). The control group showed a 20.3% decrease in mean total symptoms score, whereas the study group showed a 22.5% decrease in mean with an absolute reduction of 2.2. Conclusion. Reimplantation of a GES at a new gastric location should be considered a viable option for patients who have initially failed GES therapy for gastroparesis.
Down-regulation of NF-κB signaling by Gordonia bronchialis prevents the activation of gut epithelial cells
Authors: Smaldini Paola L , Stanford John , Romanin David E , Fossati Carlos A , Docena Guillermo H
Published: September 2013

The immunomodulatory power of heat-killed Gordonia bronchialis was studied on gut epithelial cells activated with pro-inflammatory stimuli (flagellin, TNF-α or IL-1β). Light emission of luciferase-transfected epithelial cells and mRNA expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, CCL20, IL-8 and MCP-1 were measured. NF-κB activation was assessed by immunofluorescence and immunoblotting, and induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated. In vivo inhibitory properties of G. bronchialis were studied with ligated intestinal loop assay and in a mouse model of food allergy. G. bronchialis promoted the down-regulation of the expression of CCL20 and IL-1β on activated epithelial cells in a dose-dependent manner. A concomitant blocking of nuclear p65 translocation with increased production of ROS was found. In vivo experiments confirmed the inhibition of CCL20 expression and the suppression of IgE sensitization and hypersensitivity symptoms in the food allergy mouse model. In conclusion, heat-killed G. bronchialis inhibited the activation of NF-κB pathway in human epithelial cells, and suppressed the expression of CCL20. These results indicate that G. bronchialis may be used to modulate the initial steps of innate immune activation, which further suppress the allergic sensitization. This approach may be exploited as a therapy for intestinal inflammation.