bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unloaded shortening velocity and myosin heavy chain and alkali light chain isoform composition in rat skeletal muscle fibres.
Authors: Bottinelli R , Betto R , Schiaffino S , Reggiani C
Published: December 2014

1. This study aims to assess the role of myosin heavy chain (MHC) and alkali myosin light chain (MLC) isoforms in determining maximum velocity of shortening in fast skeletal muscle fibres. 2. The maximum velocity of shortening as determined by the slack test (Vo) was tested for its relationship with MHC composition and with alkali MLC isoform ratio of fast fibres of known MHC composition. 3. MHC isoform composition was determined using sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and monoclonal antibodies against MHCs, and combining the results obtained using the two methods. Three groups of fast fibres containing only one MHC isoform were identified: IIA, IIX and IIB fibres containing respectively IIA MHC, IIX MHC and IIB MHC. Fibres containing more than one MHC isoform were discarded. 4. The mean Vo value of IIA fibres was 2.33 +/‐ 0.29 muscle lengths per second (L s‐1; mean +/‐ S.D.), this was significantly lower than that for IIX fibres (3.07 +/‐ 0.70 L s‐1) which in turn had a mean Vo value significantly lower than that for IIB fibres (3.69 +/‐ 1.01 L s‐1). 5. The relative proportion of alkali MLC isoforms (MLC3f, MLC1f) was determined by means of electrophoretic separation and densitometric quantification and was expressed as MLC3f/MLC2f with reference to the dithio‐nitrobenzoic acid (DTNB) light chain (MLC2f). The mean value of the MLC3f/MLC2f ratio was significantly lower in IIA than in IIX and IIB fibres. 6. Vo was found to be proportional to the relative content of MLC3f in IIA, IIX and IIB fibres.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Effect of inhibitors of nitric oxide release and action on vascular tone in isolated lungs of pig, sheep, dog and man.
Authors: Cremona G , Wood A M , Hall L W , Bower E A , Higenbottam T
Published: December 2014

1. The actions of inhibitors of the release or action of nitric oxide (NO) on pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were investigated in lungs isolated from pig, sheep, dog and man. 2. In pig, sheep and human lungs perfused with Krebs‐dextran solution, both N omega‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME; 10(‐5) M) and Methylene Blue (10(‐4) M) increased basal PVR. This increase was reversed by sodium nitroprusside (10(‐5) M). In pig lungs N omega‐monomethyl‐L‐arginine (10(‐4) M) increased PVR by 154%. This increase was partially reversed by L‐arginine (10(‐3) M). L‐NAME had no effect in dog lungs. 3. Pulmonary artery pressure‐flow (PPA/Q) relationships were studied over a wide range of flows. In pigs, sheep and human lungs perfused with Krebs‐dextran solution, L‐NAME increased the PPA/Q slope. This increase was reversed by sodium nitroprusside. In dog lungs L‐NAME had no effect. 4. In blood‐perfused lungs, the respective responses to L‐NAME were similar to those observed with saline. Acute hypoxia in pig and dog lungs increased intercept pressure. Addition of L‐NAME during hypoxia increased the PPA/Q slope in both species. 5. In the human, there was no difference in the absolute increase of PVR or PPA/Q slope elicited by L‐NAME between hypertensive and control lungs. 6. We conclude that NO is continuously released in the pulmonary vascular bed of pig, sheep and humans under normoxic conditions. In dog lungs inhibition of NO synthesis increases PVR only under hypoxic conditions. In human lungs with pulmonary hypertension, NO is still released under basal conditions.
Properties of voltage‐gated chloride channels of the ClC gene family.
Authors: Jentsch T J , Günther W , Pusch M , Schwappach B
Published: December 2014

We review the properties of ClC chloride channels, members of an expanding gene family originally discovered by the cloning of the ClC‐0 chloride channel from Torpedo electric organ. There are at least nine different ClC genes in mammals, several of which seem to be expressed ubiquitously, while others are expressed in a highly specific manner (e.g. the muscle‐specific ClC‐1 channel and the kidney‐specific ClC‐K channels). The newly cloned rat ClC‐4 is strongly expressed in liver and brain, but also in heart, muscle, kidney and spleen. ClC chloride channels are structurally unrelated to other channel proteins and have twelve putative transmembrane domains. They function as multimers with probably four subunits. Functional characterization is most advanced with ClC‐0, ClC‐1 (mutations which cause myotonia) and ClC‐2, a swelling‐activated chloride channel. Many of the new ClC family members cannot yet be expressed functionally.
The effect of muscle length on intracellular calcium and force in single fibres from mouse skeletal muscle.
Authors: Balnave C D , Allen D G
Published: December 2014

1. The effect of muscle length on the myoplasmic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and tetanic force production of intact single muscle fibres was investigated in the mouse flexor brevis muscle. Muscle fibres were analysed at 100 microns intervals from 100 microns shorter than the optimum length (L(zero)) to 300 microns longer than L(zero). The fluorescent Ca2+ indicator indo‐1 was used to measure [Ca2+]i. 2. Changes in muscle length did not significantly affect tetanic or resting [Ca2+]i. However, at lower stimulus frequencies (30‐50 Hz) the force‐length relation was shifted to longer muscle lengths. 3. Force‐tetanic [Ca2+]i curves were constructed at each muscle length. A comparison of these curves revealed that the Ca2+ sensitivity was length dependent. Ca2+ sensitivity increased over the ascending limb and plateau phase of the force‐length curve, but over the descending limb Ca2+ sensitivity reached a plateau and then started to decrease once more. 4. These results show that length‐dependent changes in Ca2+ sensitivity of single muscle fibres cannot simply be related to variations in sarcomere length. It is proposed that other factors, such as cross‐bridge attachment and/or developed force, have a role in determining the Ca2+ sensitivity at a particular muscle length.
Effect of lung liquid volume on respiratory performance after caesarean delivery in the lamb.
Authors: Berger P J , Smolich J J , Ramsden C A , Walker A M
Published: December 2014

1. The volume of liquid in the lungs of the fetal lamb is reported to fall in the final days of gestation and during labour itself. We aimed to test the hypothesis that this fall in liquid volume adapts the lungs for air breathing and pulmonary gas exchange. 2. In twelve chronically catheterized fetal lambs we measured lung liquid volume at 140 days gestation (term is 147 days) and then delivered the fetuses by Caesarean section under maternal spinal anaesthesia. In five fetuses we removed approximately half the liquid contained in the lungs just before delivery (experimental group) while the remaining seven fetuses were delivered without change to their lung liquid (control group). 3. Lambs born with reduced lung liquid volume improved their arterial blood gas and acid‐base status more quickly than lambs born without alteration to lung liquid. 4. Carotid arterial blood gas values in the first 60 min of postnatal life were significantly related to the volume of liquid present in the lungs at birth, with higher arterial partial pressure of oxygen (Pa,02) and arterial oxygen saturation (Sa,02) and lower arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (Pa,CO2) levels being associated with lower lung liquid volumes. 5. We conclude that postnatal gas exchange is enhanced by a reduction in the volume of liquid remaining in the lungs when breathing starts.
Myogenic contraction by modulation of voltage‐dependent calcium currents in isolated rat cerebral arteries.
Authors: McCarron J G , Crichton C A , Langton P D , MacKenzie A , Smith G L
Published: December 2014

1. Tissue blood flow and blood pressure are regulated by the spontaneous, myogenic, contraction developed by resistance arteries. However, the cellular mechanisms underlying myogenic contraction are not understood. In this study, the mechanisms of myogenic contraction in cerebral resistance arteries were investigated. 2. The vasoconstriction observed in response to increased pressure in cerebral resistance arteries (myogenic reactivity) was dependent on Ca2+ entry through voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels, since it was abolished by Ca2+ removal and by dihydropyridine antagonists of voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels. 3. Myogenic reactivity persisted in a high‐K+ saline, with reduced Ca2+, where membrane potential is presumed to be clamped. Therefore, membrane depolarization alone does not fully account for the increased voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channel opening. 4. Voltage‐dependent Ca2+ currents in single smooth muscle cells isolated from the resistance artery were substantially increased by applying positive pressure to the patch electrode evoking membrane stretch. 5. Myogenic reactivity remained unaffected by ryanodine and therefore was independent of internal ryanodine‐sensitive Ca2+ stores. 6. The myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity was not increased by elevated pressure in alpha‐toxin‐permeabilized arteries. However, pharmacological activation of protein kinase C or G proteins did increase the myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity. 7. Myogenic contraction over the pressure range 30‐70 mmHg could be accounted for by an increase in [Ca2+]i from 100 to 200 nM. 8. It is concluded that modest increases in [Ca2+]i within the range 100‐200 nM can account for that myogenic contraction, and that stretch‐evoked modulation of Ca2+ currents may contribute to the myogenic response.
Simple Flow-Pattern Based Heat Transfer Correlations for Flow Boiling in Micro/Minichannels
Authors: Wu Zan , Sunden Bengt , Yao Shi-chune , Wadekar Vishwas V. , Li Wei
Published: December 2014

An improved conventional-to-micro/minichannel threshold was proposed as Bo = 4 and BoRel0.5 = 200, where Bo is the Bond number and Rel is the liquid Reynolds number. The region Bo < 4 and BoRel0.5 < 200 is termed as micro/minichannel because bubbles tend to be confined and elongated in the channel and the conventional two-phase flow theory loses its applicability. Flow-pattern based heat transfer correlations for elongated bubbly flow and annular flow in flow boiling micro/minichannels were developed separately based on a collected micro/minichannel heat-transfer database. As significant disagreement in experimental trends and heat transfer mechanisms was reported for flow boiling in micro/minichannels in the literature, it is not possible to explain the discrepancy and predict all data points by a single correlation without considering the different flow patterns. The newly developed flow-pattern based predictive tool can not only present a decent overall accuracy, but also estimate the parametric trends correctly. Over 95% of the data points can be predicted by the proposed correlations within a ± 50% error band for both elongated bubbly flow and annular flow. Therefore, the simple flow-pattern based correlations can be applied for heat exchanger design, improve understanding of the underlying heat transfer mechanisms, and guide development of further enhancement techniques for flow boiling in micro/minichannels.
Assessment of uncertainties in radiation‐induced cancer risk predictions at clinically relevant doses
Authors: Nguyen J. , Moteabbed M. , Paganetti H.
Published: December 2014

Purpose:

Theoretical dose–response models offer the possibility to assess second cancer induction risks after external beam therapy. The parameters used in these models are determined with limited data from epidemiological studies. Risk estimations are thus associated with considerable uncertainties. This study aims at illustrating uncertainties when predicting the risk for organ‐specific second cancers in the primary radiation field illustrated by choosing selected treatment plans for brain cancer patients.

Methods:

A widely used risk model was considered in this study. The uncertainties of the model parameters were estimated with reported data of second cancer incidences for various organs. Standard error propagation was then subsequently applied to assess the uncertainty in the risk model. Next, second cancer risks of five pediatric patients treated for cancer in the head and neck regions were calculated. For each case, treatment plans for proton and photon therapy were designed to estimate the uncertainties (a) in the lifetime attributable risk (LAR) for a given treatment modality and (b) when comparing risks of two different treatment modalities.

Results:

Uncertainties in excess of 100% of the risk were found for almost all organs considered. When applied to treatment plans, the calculated LAR values have uncertainties of the same magnitude. A comparison between cancer risks of different treatment modalities, however, does allow statistically significant conclusions. In the studied cases, the patient averaged LAR ratio of proton and photon treatments was 0.35, 0.56, and 0.59 for brain carcinoma, brain sarcoma, and bone sarcoma, respectively. Their corresponding uncertainties were estimated to be potentially below 5%, depending on uncertainties in dosimetry.

Conclusions:

The uncertainty in the dose–response curve in cancer risk models makes it currently impractical to predict the risk for an individual external beam treatment. On the other hand, the ratio of absolute risks between two modalities is less sensitive to the uncertainties in the risk model and can provide statistically significant estimates.
#Sponsoring the #FrenchOpen: An Examination of Social Media Buzz and Sentiment
Authors: Delia Elizabeth B. , Armstrong Cole G.
Published: December 2014

Scholars have frequently examined sponsorship effectiveness via survey instrument; however, no efforts have been made to gauge sponsorship effectiveness via social networking sites. As a medium for consumer activity and interaction, scholars and industry professionals can leverage social media to monitor the effects of sponsorship in real time, as consumers experience a sporting event. In this exploratory study, we employed a mixed methods study design to examine Twitter users’ discussion of 2013 French Open sponsors during the tennis tournament. We found a weak positive relationship between sponsor-event functional fit and positive sponsor-related sentiment, and a weak positive relationship between a sponsor company’s social media presence and event-related buzz. Through case study analysis, we discovered unintended misrepresentation and activation were apparent drivers of sponsor-related social media conversation during the 2013 French Open. As an emerging area for sponsorship research, we provide suggestions for future research into sponsorship and social media.
Minimizing bleeding complications in spinal tumor surgery with preoperative Onyx embolization via dual-lumen balloon catheter
Authors: Ladner Travis R , He Lucy , Lakomkin Nikita , Davis Brandon J , Cheng Joseph S , Devin Clinton J , Mocco J
Published: December 2014

Background

Intraoperative bleeding is a significant risk in surgery for highly vascular spinal tumors, but preoperative embolization can safely decrease intraoperative blood loss in extrinsic spine tumors. Onyx, widely used for cerebrovascular embolization, has been increasingly used as an embolic agent for preoperative spinal tumor embolization. The Scepter catheter, a dual-lumen balloon catheter, may improve tumor parenchymal penetration without the danger and limitations of significant embolic reflux. This may reduce bleeding risk during spinal surgery.

Methods

Eleven consecutive cases of preoperative Onyx embolization of extrinsic spinal tumors were identified, all of whom had subsequent spinal surgery. Demographic data and clinical variables were collected. Patients were divided into Scepter (n=6) and non-Scepter (n=5) groups. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare continuous outcome variables and the Fisher exact test was used to compare categorical variables.

Results

Estimated blood loss in the Scepter group was significantly lower than in the non-Scepter group (584±124 vs 2400±738 mL, p=0.004). The volume of intraoperative transfusion was also significantly lower (1.2±0.4 vs 5.8±1.7 units, p=0.004). There was no significant difference in the number of vessels embolized, vials of Onyx used, use of coiling adjunct, contrast load, radiation dose, or fluoroscopy time per pedicle (p>0.05).

Conclusions

The addition of the Scepter catheter to preoperative Onyx embolization is safe and feasible. In this small series, the Scepter catheter was associated with a reduction of intraoperative bleeding by 76% and a 79% lower transfusion volume. This was not accompanied by any unwanted increase in vials of Onyx used, contrast load, radiation dose, or fluoroscopy time.
Validated Contemporary Risk Model of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Interventions: Insights From the National Cardiovascular Data Registry Cath‐PCI Registry
Authors: Tsai Thomas T. , Patel Uptal D. , Chang Tara I. , Kennedy Kevin F. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Matheny Michael E. , Kosiborod Mikhail , Amin Amit P. , Weintraub William S. , Curtis Jeptha P. , Messenger John C. , Rumsfeld John S. , Spertus John A.
Published: December 2014

Background

We developed risk models for predicting acute kidney injury (
AKI
) and
AKI
requiring dialysis (
AKI
‐D) after percutaneous coronary intervention (
PCI
) to support quality assessment and the use of preventative strategies.

Methods and Results

AKI
was defined as an absolute increase of ≥0.3 mg/
dL
or a relative increase of 50% in serum creatinine (
AKIN
Stage 1 or greater) and
AKI
‐D was a new requirement for dialysis following
PCI
. Data from 947 012 consecutive
PCI
patients and 1253 sites participating in the
NCDR
Cath/
PCI
registry between 6/09 and 7/11 were used to develop the model, with 70% randomly assigned to a derivation cohort and 30% for validation.
AKI
occurred in 7.33% of the derivation and validation cohorts. Eleven variables were associated with
AKI
: older age, baseline renal impairment (categorized as mild, moderate, and severe), prior cerebrovascular disease, prior heart failure, prior
PCI
, presentation (non‐
ACS
versus
NSTEMI
versus
STEMI
), diabetes, chronic lung disease, hypertension, cardiac arrest, anemia, heart failure on presentation, balloon pump use, and cardiogenic shock.
STEMI
presentation, cardiogenic shock, and severe baseline
CKD
were the strongest predictors for
AKI
. The full model showed good discrimination in the derivation and validation cohorts (c‐statistic of 0.72 and 0.71, respectively) and identical calibration (slope of calibration line=1.01). The
AKI
‐D model had even better discrimination (c‐statistic=0.89) and good calibration (slope of calibration line=0.99).

Conclusion

The
NCDR AKI
prediction models can successfully risk‐stratify patients undergoing
PCI
. The potential for this tool to aid clinicians in counseling patients regarding the risk of
PCI
, identify patients for preventative strategies, and support local quality improvement efforts should be prospectively tested.
Nieuw Zicht Op de Mythen
Authors: Troost A.
Published: December 2014

1. Aanleiding: �verhaal� of �geschiedenis�, 2. Nieuwe aandacht voor de mythen, 3. Definitie van mythen moeilijk of zelfs onmogelijk? 4. Eerste benadering, 5. Mythe, mythologie en mythenkunde, 6. Mythen dragen openbarings- en geloofskarakter, 7. Echte religie, 8. Godsdienstfilosofie, 9. Openbaring en karikatuur, 10. Mythe als pseudo-openbaring en als ontspoord geloof, 11. Reformatorische godsdienstfilosofie gewenst, 12. Mythisch tijdsbesef, 13. Mythisch beleven van de schepping aller dingen, 14. Cyclisch of lineair? 15. Mythisch tijdsbesef in de Bijbel? 16. Tijdstheologie, 17. In Christus zijn, 18. Mythische taal, 19. In Adam gezondigd, 20. Voltijdelijke concentratie in de orde van Melchizedek, 21. De volheid des tijds, 22. Mythen en de ontmythologisering van de Bijbel, 23. Mythe, mystiek en metafysica, 24. Verhaal of geschiedenis? 25. Drie�rlei geschiedenis in twee dimensies, 26. De geestelijke dimensie van alle geschiedenis, 27. Levensbeschouwing, 28. Christus, de geschiedenis en de waarheid, 29. Historische waarheid en de volheid der waarheid, 30. Verschillende soorten van literatuur, 31. Openbaringsmythen.
The Specific Role of FAM20C in Dentinogenesis
Authors: Wang X. , Wang J. , Liu Y. , Yuan B. , Ruest L.B. , Feng J.Q. , Qin C.
Published: December 2014

FAM20C is an evolutionarily reserved molecule highly expressed in mineralized tissues. Previously we demonstrated that Sox2-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice, in which Fam20C was ubiquitously inactivated, had dentin and enamel defects as well as hypophosphatemic rickets. We also showed that K14-Cre; Fam20Cfl/fl mice, in which Fam20C was specifically inactivated in the epithelium, had enamel defects but lacked hypophosphatemia and defects in the bone and dentin. These results indicated that the enamel defects in the Sox2-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice were independent of dentin defects and hypophosphatemia. To determine if the dentin defects in the Sox2-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice were associated with the enamel defects and hypophosphatemia, we crossed Fam20Cfl/fl mice with Wnt1-Cre and Osr2-Cre transgenic mice to inactivate Fam20C in the craniofacial mesenchymal cells that form dentin and alveolar bone. The resulting Wnt1-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl and Osr2-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice showed remarkable dentin and alveolar bone defects, while their enamel did not show apparent defects. The serum FGF23 levels in these mice were higher than normal but lower than those in the Sox2- Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice; they developed a mild type of hypophosphatemia that did not cause major defects in long bones. These results indicate that the dentin defects in the Sox2-Cre;Fam20Cfl/fl mice were independent of the enamel defects.
An Investigation of the Impact of Guessing on Coefficient α and Reliability
Authors: Paek Insu
Published: December 2014

Guessing is known to influence the test reliability of multiple-choice tests. Although there are many studies that have examined the impact of guessing, they used rather restrictive assumptions (e.g., parallel test assumptions, homogeneous inter-item correlations, homogeneous item difficulty, and homogeneous guessing levels across items) to evaluate the relation between guessing and test reliability. Based on the item response theory (IRT) framework, this study investigated the extent of the impact of guessing on reliability under more realistic conditions where item difficulty, item discrimination, and guessing levels actually vary across items with three different test lengths (TL). By accommodating multiple item characteristics simultaneously, this study also focused on examining interaction effects between guessing and other variables entered in the simulation to be more realistic. The simulation of the more realistic conditions and calculations of reliability and classical test theory (CTT) item statistics were facilitated by expressing CTT item statistics, coefficient α, and reliability in terms of IRT model parameters. In addition to the general negative impact of guessing on reliability, results showed interaction effects between TL and guessing and between guessing and test difficulty.
Air contamination in the sclerosing foam for the treatment of varicose veins
Authors: de Franciscis S , Nobile CGA , Larosa E , Montemurro R , Serra R
Published: December 2014

Background

Fluids and drugs formulated for intravenous infusion may potentially promote the growth of microorganisms that can cause infections. The aim of this study is to test the sterility of sclerosing foam.

Methods

Polidocanol was used for the production of the foam. The Tessari method was used in order to generate the foam. The preparation was carried out both in the operating theater and in an outpatient room. A validation test with microorganisms was also performed.

Results

The measurements showed no evident growth of microorganisms and in the validation tests the foam appeared to even display bacteriostatic and/or bactericide properties.

Conclusions

Sclerosing foam seems to be safe from a microbiological point of view.
Comparative potency of sensory-induced brainstem activation to trigger spreading depression and seizures in the cortex of awake rats: Implications for the pathophysiology of migraine aura
Authors: Vinogradova Lyudmila V
Published: December 2014

Background

Migraine and epilepsy are highly co-morbid neurological disorders associated with episodic dysfunction of both cortical and subcortical networks. The study examined the interrelation between cortical spreading depression, the electrophysiological correlate of migraine aura and seizures triggered at cortical and brainstem levels by repeated sound stimulation in rats with acoustic hypersensitivity (reflex audiogenic epilepsy).

Method

In awake, freely moving rats with innate audiogenic epilepsy, 25 episodes of running seizure (brainstem seizures) were induced by repeated sound stimulation. Spreading depression and seizures were recorded using implanted cortical electrodes.

Results

The first sound-induced brainstem seizures evoked neither spreading depression nor seizures in the cortex. With repetition, brainstem seizures began to be followed by a single cortical spreading depression wave and an epileptiform discharge. Spreading depression was more frequent an early cortical event than seizures: spreading depression appeared after 8.4 ± 1.0 repeated stimulations in 100% rats ( n = 24) while cortical seizures were recorded after 12.9 ± 1.2 tests in 46% rats. Brainstem seizure triggered unilateral long-latency spreading depression. Bilateral short-latency cortical spreading depression was recorded only after intense cortical seizures.

Conclusion

These data show that episodic brainstem activation is a potent trigger of unilateral cortical spreading depression. Development of intense seizures in the cortex leads to initiation of spreading depression in multiple cortical sites of both hemispheres.
Assaults on Inmates and Staff by Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Homicide
Authors: Sorensen Jonathan R. , Vigen Mark P. , Woods S. O. , Williams Bradley D.
Published: December 2014

The current study presents the results of an analysis of serious and assaultive prison rule violating behavior among male perpetrators of intimate partner homicide (IPH). Data on prison rule violations were collected from a sample of 189 inmates convicted of IPH in a large, southern prison system. The study focused on the degree of continuity in violent behavior among IPH offenders from the community to the prison setting. The current study tested hypotheses derived from both the feminist perspective (FP) and the general violence perspective (GVP). As a group, IPH offenders were better behaved in prison than other incarcerated homicide offenders, thereby offering some support for the FP. However, the lower level of assaultive behavior among the group was not universal. Characteristics associated with continued violent offending in the prison environment were the same as those found in previous studies of incarcerated homicide offenders, thereby lending greater support to the GVP.
Theory to Practice
Authors: Ursel Karen L.
Published: December 2014

Guided by the humanbecoming leading-following model, the author designed a nursing theories course with the intention of creating a meaningful nursing theory to practice link. The author perceived that with the implementation of Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendations (SBAR) communication, nursing staff had drifted away from using the Kardex™ in shift to shift reporting. Nurse students, faculty, and staff members supported the creation of a theories project which would engage nursing students in the pursuit of clinical excellence. The project chosen was to revise the existing Kardex™ (predominant nursing communication tool). In the project, guided by a nursing theory, nursing students focused on the unique patient’s experience, depicting the specific role of nursing knowledge and the contributions of the registered nurse to the patient’s healthcare journey. The emphasis of this theoretical learning was the application of a nursing theory to real-life clinical challenges with communication of relevant, timely, and accurate patient information, recognizing that real problems are often complex and require multi-perspective approaches. This project created learning opportunities where a nursing theory would be chosen by the nursing student clinical group and applied in their clinical specialty area. This practice activity served to broaden student understandings of the role of nursing knowledge and nursing theories in their professional practice.
Linezolid Bladder Irrigation as Adjunctive Treatment for a Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococcus faecium Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Hill David M. , Wood G. Christopher , Hickerson William L.
Published: December 2014

Objective: To describe the first reported successful use of adjunctive linezolid bladder irrigation. Case Summary: An 89-year-old woman with 10% TBSA burns developed septic shock and anuric acute kidney insufficiency. She acquired a urinary tract infection caused by vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm). Based on clinical status, a linezolid bladder irrigation was initiated in addition to high-dose intravenous linezolid and demonstrated microbiological cure with 7 days of treatment. Discussion: Linezolid is primarily hepatically cleared and has no labeled indication for urinary tract infections. Anuria adds an additional complication of potentially reduced urinary drug concentrations. Bladder irrigation offers the benefit of achieving high local drug concentrations, but there are no data regarding such a route for linezolid. This case report is the first demonstrating the use, stability, safety, and efficacy of linezolid as a continuous bladder irrigation. Conclusions: Linezolid use as a bladder irrigation may be a feasible route of administration in anuric, critically ill patients with VREfm and few antimicrobial options. Further studies are warranted.
Temperament and Character Traits of Parents of Children With ADHD
Authors: Yurumez Esra , Yazici Esra , Gumus Yusuf Yasin , Yazici Ahmet Bulent , Gursoy Salime
Published: December 2014

Objective: This study investigates the relationship between ADHD and the personalities of parents of children with ADHD. Method: Personality traits of parents of children with ADHD (study group; n = 135) and parents of children without ADHD (control group; n = 122) were compared. Psychiatric comorbidities were excluded with Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV Axis I Disorders, Clinical Version [SCID-I-CV]. Personality is assessed with Temperament and Character Inventory, and inattention (IA) and hyperactivity (HI) are assessed with Turgay Scale. Results: Harm avoidance and persistence scores were higher, and self-directedness (SD) scores were lower in the study group than the control group. Being in ADHD group predicted lower SD scores. Positive correlations were found between harm avoidance and IA and HI, and between persistence and HI. Negative correlations were found between SD and both IA and HI. Conclusion: Our data suggest that there is relationship between ADHD in children’s and parents’ personalities. Common etiologic properties and personalized psychoeducation and treatment options for families should be discussed.
Screening for the ADHD Phenotype Using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire in a Clinical Sample of Newly Referred Children and Adolescents
Authors: Carballo Juan José , Rodríguez-Blanco Lucía , García-Nieto Rebeca , Baca-García Enrique
Published: December 2014

Objective: To examine the screening ability of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for ADHD subtypes in a clinical sample. Method: Parents of 523 children (3 to 17 years old) referred to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services completed the Spanish version of the SDQ and the ADHD Rating Scale–IV. Receiver operating curve (ROC) curve analyses and likelihood ratios (LRs) were conducted. Results: The LR results indicated that the 8/10 cutoff showed the highest diagnostic accuracy. The sensitivity of the SDQ 8/10 cutoff for the three subtypes was significantly different: 84.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] = [75.58, 89.90]) of ADHD combined subtype (ADHD-Co), 25.0% (95% CI = [17.55, 34.30]) of ADHD predominantly inattentive subtype (ADHD-I), and 77.8% (95% CI = [68.71, 84.83]) of ADHD predominantly hyperactive/impulsive subtype (ADHD-H). Sex and age differences were found. These screening differences were also found when using the 7/10 cutoff or the SDQ predictive algorithm. Conclusion: Our study supports the use of the SDQ in the screening for ADHD. However, not all ADHD subtypes are equally screened.
“It’s My Body and My Life”
Authors: Martinez Alejandra , Andreatta Maria Marta
Published: December 2014

In this essay, we reflect on others’ perceptions of women who choose not to be mothers, and our own sensations and feelings in relation to people’s judgments about our own decision to remain childfree. We use a specific dynamic that we name dialogued collaborative autoethnography to address our personal stories within the social and cultural context.
Innovation, Translation, and Cooperation
Authors: Fu Xiaobing
Published: December 2014

The 9th Wound Healing and Tissue Repair and Regeneration Annual Meeting of Chinese Tissue Repair Society was hold in Wuhan, China. This meeting was focused on the innovation, translation application, and cooperation in wound care both in China and other countries. More than 400 delegates took part in this meeting and communicated successfully.
Preaching to the Choir
Authors: Kemper Kathi J. , Mo Xiaokui , Lynn Joanne
Published: December 2014

Background.

Observational studies evaluating elective training programs may be biased if learners who enroll differ from nonenrollees. To assess self-selection bias, we compared participants who enrolled in 2 different online courses in complementary and alternative medical therapies.

Methods.

Participants were recruited from entering classes in medicine, nursing, social work, and dietetics, and residencies in family medicine and pediatrics. The 2 electives were ( a) herbs and dietary supplements and ( b) mind–body skills training. Participants completed standardized questionnaires before training.

Results.

The 218 participants had an average age of 28 years; 76% were trainees. There were no significant differences between enrollees in mind–body skills and herbs and dietary supplements with regard to age, gender, stress levels, mind–body training or practice, mindfulness, empathy, compassion, or resilience.

Conclusions.

Those who enroll in mind–body skills are not measurably different than those who enroll in herbs and dietary supplements. There is no evidence of self-selection bias or “preaching to the choir.”
Effect of primary alpha phase variation on mechanical behaviour of Ti–6Al–4V alloy
Authors: Sahoo R. , Jha B. B. , Sahoo T. K.
Published: December 2014

Small punch tests (SPTs) have been carried out at room temperature to correlate the microstructural variation of Ti–6Al–4V alloy with that of SPT parameters. Microstructural variation in terms of different volume fractions of primary alpha phase of Ti–6Al–4V alloy has been introduced as a result of solution annealing at different temperatures followed by thermal aging. Small punch test parameters, i.e. total area under the load vs displacement curve, area under the zone of elastic bending, plastic bending and plastic instability have been found to increase from the content of 10 primary alpha phase to 20 primary alpha phase and then these are decreasing from the content of 20 primary alpha phase to 30 primary alpha phase.
Fondaparinux for the treatment of suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: a propensity score–matched study
Authors: Kang Matthew , Alahmadi Majed , Sawh Sonja , Kovacs Michael J. , Lazo-Langner Alejandro
Published: December 2014

Key Points

Fondaparinux seems to be an effective and safe alternative for the management of suspected HIT.
Un análisis de la relación a corto plazo entre fecundidad y matrimonio. España 1975-2013
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Montserrat , Llorente-Marrón María del Mar , Méndez-Rodríguez María Paz
Published: December 2014

Con objeto de analizar en qué medida nupcialidad y fecundidadconstituyen variables relacionadas entre sí a lo largo del tiempo, se evalúaempíricamente un modelo que intenta capturar las relaciones temporales no causalesentre ambos fenómenos en España. El análisis se aborda mediante un modelo devectores autorregresivos y funciones impulso-respuesta. La información estadísticautilizada proviene del Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE, 2014a y 2014b). Se haconstatado una relación fluctuante entre ambos procesos y débilmente procíclica. Lasactuaciones sobre la serie nacimientos generan efectos sobre la dinámica de ambasseries, que muestran cierto comportamiento de influencia-liderazgo.
Doenças, hospitalização e ansiedade: uma abordagem em saúde mental
Authors: Gomes Luciana Catunda , Fraga Maria de Nazaré de Oliveira
Published: December 2014

Com a finalidade de abordar globalmente o indivíduo internado, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo identificar os fatores geradores de ansiedade em pessoas hospitalizadas e como elas expressam seu desconforto ante à doença e à hospitalização. A coleta de dados realizou-se em abril/maio/96 com pessoas adultas internadas em um hospital-escola e apoiou-se em um roteiro para observação de situações ansiogênicas e em um roteiro de entrevista.. Constatamos como maiores preocupações dos pacientes: saber se a doença é curável, o tempo de internação, o trabalho e manutenção da família. Eles ficam mais tristes à noite e à tarde, períodos em que a equipe está reduzida, há mais silêncio e sentem solidão. Só um baixo percentual deles tem informação consistente sobre a doença e o tratamento, e mesmo assim o hospital, majoritariamente, é identificado como local bom pela possibilidade de cura, boa assistência e alimentação dispensadas. Presenciar o sofrimento e risco de morte do vizinho, ter alta, exames e procedimentos do tratamento suspensos ou retardados, ser comunicado da necessidade de operar-se ou de que a doença é incurável foram fatores ansiogênicos que se destacaram. Tanto nas reações imediatas quanto tardias às situações ansiogênicas predominam atitudes passivas como tristeza, choro, depressão e negativismo. Concluiu-se que a condição psíquica e emoções dos pacientes internados precisam ser contempladas em hospitais clínicos, privilegiando-se uma abordagem totalizante, com atenção especial para a agilização das intervenções e a consistência das informações a eles prestadas sobre sua saúde e tratamento.
Os setenta anos da Associação Brasileira de Enfermagem (ABEn)
Authors: Oliveira Isabel dos Reis Silva , Barreto Ivete Santos , Lima Maria Goreti de
Published: December 2014

Os setenta anos da existência da Associação Brasileira de Enfermagem, antes Associação Brasileira de Enfermeiras Diplomadas, representam, na verdade, setenta anos da história da Enfermagem no Brasil. Constatamos, numa retrospectiva histórica, que a criação da entidade; a sua organização que passa por várias mudanças, adaptando-se às exigências impostas pelas conjunturas; os marcos culturais, onde se destacam a Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem, Semana Brasileira de Enfermagem, Seminário Nacional de Pesquisa em Enfermagem, os Encontros Regionais de Enfermagem e o Congresso Brasileiro de Enfermagem, são demonstrações da força e garra desta entidade que sobrevive das lutas, conquistas e realizações da categoria. Destacamos o avanço político a partir das duas últimas décadas na organização estrutural e política, o processo decisório mais democrático internamente e externamente (Conselho Nacional da ABEn); uma expressão política social autônoma enquanto sociedade civil, maior entrosamento com outras entidades nacional e internacional. Por fim, relacionamos os desafios que se apresentam para a atual gestão de entidade.
Continued Nursing Education in University Hospitals in Southern Brazil
Authors: Backes Vania , Prado Marta , Erdmann Alacoque , Ferraz Fabiane
Published: December 2014

Purpose:

This study analyzed the continued nursing education process in three university hospitals in southern Brazil. Its theoretical reference was centered upon the problematization pedagogy of Freire and the levels of practice of Vázquez.

Methods:

This was a qualitative case study, based on multiple holistic cases. The data were collected through document analysis, observation of scenarios, and semistructured interviews with 22 nursing employees.

Results:

The thematic analysis evidenced the continued nursing education process, highlighting initiatives such as the creation of the Center for Nursing Education and Research, the Permanent Nursing Education Center, and the Continued Nursing Education Program.

Conclusion:

This study serves as an important tool for the transformation of the reality of health care subjects and institutions.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2008;39(8):368–374.
New calibration noise suppression techniques for the GLORIA limb imager
Authors: Guggenmoser T. , Blank J. , Kleinert A. , Latzko T. , Ungermann J. , Friedl-Vallon F. , Höpfner M. , Kaufmann M. , Kretschmer E. , Maucher G. , Neubert T. , Oelhaf H. , Preusse P. , Riese M. , Rongen H. , K. Sha M. , Sumińska-Ebersoldt O. , Tan V.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The Gimballed Limb Observer for Radiance Imaging of the Atmosphere (GLORIA) presents new opportunities for the retrieval of trace gases in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. The radiometric calibration of the measured signal is achieved using in-flight measurements of reference blackbody and upward-pointing "deep space" scenes. In this paper, we present techniques developed specifically to calibrate GLORIA data exploiting the instrument's imaging capability. The algorithms discussed here make use of the spatial correlation of parameters across GLORIA's detector pixels in order to mitigate the noise levels and artefacts in the calibration measurements. This is achieved by combining a priori and empirical knowledge about the instrument background radiation with noise-mitigating compression methods, specifically low-pass filtering and principal component analysis. In addition, a new software package for the processing of GLORIA data is introduced which allows us to generate calibrated spectra from raw measurements in a semi-automated data processing chain.
Biogeophysical impacts of peatland forestation on regional climate changes in Finland
Authors: Gao Y. , Markkanen T. , Backman L. , Henttonen H. M. , Pietikäinen J.-P. , Mäkelä H. M. , Laaksonen A.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. Land cover changes can impact the climate by influencing the surface energy and water balance. Naturally treeless or sparsely treed peatlands were extensively drained to stimulate forest growth in Finland over the second half of 20th century. The aim of this study is to investigate the biogeophysical effects of peatland forestation on regional climate in Finland. Two sets of 18-year climate simulations were done with the regional climate model REMO by using land cover data based on pre-drainage (1920s) and post-drainage (2000s) Finnish national forest inventories. In the most intensive peatland forestation area, located in the middle west of Finland, the results show a warming in April of up to 0.43 K in monthly-averaged daily mean 2 m air temperature, whereas a slight cooling from May to October of less than 0.1 K in general is found. Consequently, snow clearance days over that area are advanced up to 5 days in the mean of 15 years. No clear signal is found for precipitation. Through analysing the simulated temperature and energy balance terms, as well as snow depth over five selected subregions, a positive feedback induced by peatland forestation is found between decreased surface albedo and increased surface air temperature in the snow-melting period. Our modelled results show good qualitative agreements with the observational data. In general, decreased surface albedo in the snow-melting period and increased evapotranspiration in the growing period are the most important biogeophysical aspects induced by peatland forestation that cause changes in climate. The results from this study can be further integrally analysed with biogeochemical effects of peatland forestation to provide background information for adapting future forest management to mitigate climate warming effects. Moreover, they provide insights about the impacts of projected forestation of tundra at high latitudes due to climate change.
Relations between macropore network characteristics and the degree of preferential solute transport
Authors: Larsbo M. , Koestel J. , Jarvis N.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. The characteristics of the soil macropore network determine the potential for fast transport of agrochemicals and contaminants through the soil. The objective of this study was to examine the relationships between macropore network characteristics, hydraulic properties and state variables and measures of preferential transport. Experiments were carried out under near-saturated conditions on undisturbed columns sampled from four agricultural topsoils of contrasting texture and structure. Macropore network characteristics were computed from 3-D X-ray tomography images of the soil pore system. Non-reactive solute transport experiments were carried out at five steady-state water flow rates from 2 to 12 mm h−1. The degree of preferential transport was evaluated by the normalised 5% solute arrival time and the apparent dispersivity calculated from the resulting breakthrough curves. Near-saturated hydraulic conductivities were measured on the same samples using a tension disc infiltrometer placed on top of the columns. Results showed that many of the macropore network characteristics were inter-correlated. For example, large macroporosities were associated with larger specific macropore surface areas and better local connectivity of the macropore network. Generally, an increased flow rate resulted in earlier solute breakthrough and a shifting of the arrival of peak concentration towards smaller drained volumes. Columns with smaller macroporosities, poorer local connectivity of the macropore network and smaller near-saturated hydraulic conductivities exhibited a greater degree of preferential transport. This can be explained by the fact that, with only two exceptions, global (i.e. sample scale) continuity of the macropore network was still preserved at low macroporosities. Thus, for any given flow rate, pores of larger diameter were actively conducting solute in soils of smaller near-saturated hydraulic conductivity. This was associated with larger local transport velocities and, hence, less time for equilibration between the macropores and the surrounding matrix which made the transport more preferential. Conversely, the large specific macropore surface area and well-connected macropore networks associated with columns with large macroporosities limit the degree of preferential transport because they increase the diffusive flux between macropores and the soil matrix and they increase the near-saturated hydraulic conductivity. The normalised 5% arrival times were most strongly correlated with the estimated hydraulic state variables (e.g. with the degree of saturation in the macropores R2 = 0.589), since these combine into one measure the effects of irrigation rate and the near-saturated hydraulic conductivity function, which in turn implicitly depends on the volume, size distribution, global continuity, local connectivity and tortuosity of the macropore network.