bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Informal carers of older family members: how they manage and what support they receive from respite care
Authors: Salin Sirpa , Kaunonen Marja , Åstedt‐Kurki Päivi
Published: January 2009

Aims.  To describe informal carers’ coping strategies and their experiences of the support provided by respite care.

Background.  The target set in the Finnish national old age policy strategy is that 90% of the population over 75 should be able to live at home. A major source of support for older people and their families is respite care in an institution.

Design.  Survey.

Methods.  The data were collected among informal carers who regularly use respite care services (n = 143). Two structured questionnaires were used: the Carers’ Assessment of Managing Index (Nolan et al. 1995) and an index developed by the researchers.

Results.  Informal carers who provided care for younger individuals or people who needed less help had a better quality of life. Spouse carers and older informal carers were less satisfied with their quality of life than younger carers. Periods of respite care had a major influence on informal carers’ quality of life: 93% said they felt invigorated. Care periods remained rather isolated episodes in the lives of the older patients in that there was hardly any discussion at the institution about the family’s situation, the objectives of respite care, or about how the informal carer was coping. Altogether, 47% of the nurses remained fairly distant. The most useful coping strategies involved creating alternative perspectives in the caring relationship.

Conclusions.  The results strengthen the knowledge base of informal caregiving by showing how caregivers cope and what kind of support they need in their demanding caring role.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Respite care nurses should invest greater effort in supporting informal carers. The service should be developed as an integral part of home care for older people. Nurses and informal carers should see each other as partners who share a common goal, i.e. the well‐being of the entire family.
A review of the information and support needs of family carers of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Caress Ann‐Louise , Luker Karen A , Chalmers Karen I , Salmon Margaret P
Published: January 2009

Aims and objectives.  The objectives of this narrative review were to identify: (1) The information and support needs of carers of family members with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; (2) appropriate interventions to support carers in their caregiving role; (3) information on carers’ needs as reported in studies of patients living with COPD in the community.

Background.  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a major health problem in the UK resulting in significant burden for patients, families and the health service. Current National Health Service policies emphasise, where medically appropriate, early discharge for acute exacerbations, hospital‐at‐home care and other models of community care to prevent or reduce re‐hospitalisations of people with chronic conditions. Understanding carers’ needs is important if health care professionals are to support carers in their caregiving role.

Design.  A narrative literature review.

Methods.  Thirty five papers were reviewed after searching electronic databases.

Results.  Few studies were identified which addressed, even peripherally, carers’ needs for information and support, and no studies were found which described and evaluated interventions designed to enhance caregiving capacity. Several studies of hospital‐at‐home/early discharge, self care and home management programmes were identified which included some information on patients’ living arrangements or marital status. However, there was little or no detail reported on the needs of, and in many cases, even the presence of a family carer.

Conclusions.  This review highlights the dearth of information on the needs of carers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and the need for future research.

Relevance to clinical practice.  There is little research based knowledge of the needs of carers of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients and interventions to assist them in providing care. This knowledge is critical to ensure that carers receive the information they need to carry out this role while maintaining their own physical and emotional health.
Development and validation of a food frequency index using nutritional biomarkers in a sample of middle‐aged and older adults
Authors: Freisling H. , Elmadfa I. , Schuh W. , Wagner K.‐H.
Published: January 2009

Background: An index of diet quality, which examines different aspects of a diet concurrently, may facilitate the identification of poor dietary habits in population sub‐groups. The objectives of the present study were to develop a food frequency index (FFI) and to test its associations with nutritional biomarkers and nutrient intake.

Methods: The study comprised a cross‐sectional survey among 444 adults aged 55 years and older in Vienna, Austria, and a sub‐sample of 226 subjects who provided fasting blood specimen. Data from a qualitative 28‐item food‐frequency questionnaire were used to develop the FFI.

Results: FFI scores were positively correlated with plasma concentrations of beta‐carotene (r = 0.26), beta‐cryptoxanthin (r = 0.31), zeaxanthin (r = 0.19), lutein (r = 0.21), phylloquinone (r = 0.19), 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (r = 0.20), and serum high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐cholesterol (r = 0.24) and were negatively correlated with the ratio of total : HDL‐cholesterol (r = −0.23). Sub‐groups with higher FFI scores had, on average, lower intakes of total fat, saturated fat, and dietary cholesterol and higher intakes of total carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and most of the examined micronutrients.

Conclusion: The FFI as a measure of diet quality has the ability to discern population sub‐groups, with reasonable validity, into low‐ or high‐risk dietary habits.
Estimation of total body water from bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy in oncology outpatients receiving radiotherapy and agreement with three prediction equations
Authors: Isenring E. , Colombo M. , Cross G. , Kellett E. , Swaney L.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) may be more accurate in determining total body water (TBW) than bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). The present study compared the agreement between three TBW prediction equations developed using BIA and BIS‐derived TBW in oncology outpatients.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional, observational study was conducted in 37 outpatients receiving radiotherapy (27 males/10 females, aged 68.3 ± 10.2 years). TBW was estimated by BIS (TBWBIS) and three BIA TBW prediction equations (TBWca‐u: underweight cancer patients; TBWca‐n: normal‐weight cancer patients; and TBWrad: patients receiving radiotherapy). Bland–Altman analyses determined agreement between methods. BIS‐derived TBW using new resistivity constants was calculated.

Results:  The mean ± SD of TBW estimated by BIS was 39.8 ± 8.3 L, which was significantly different from the prediction equations; TBWrad 35.1 ± 7.9 L, TBWca‐u 33.1 ± 7.5 L and TBWca‐n 32.3 ± 7.3 L, (P < 0.001). Using new resistivity constants, TBW was 36.2 ± 8.1 L but this still differed from the equations (P < 0.001). Bias between TBWBIS and that predicted by the equations was in the range 4.7–7.4 L or 1.1–3.9 L using new resistivity constants.

Conclusions:  TBW estimated by BIS cannot be directly compared with oncology‐specific BIA equations, suggesting that BIS cannot be used at the group level in outpatients receiving radiotherapy. There was a reduced bias with BIS using new resistivity constants; however, further research should determine any advantage of BIS over BIA in this population.
The long‐term influence of orlistat on dietary intake in obese subjects with components of metabolic syndrome
Authors: Svendsen M. , Helgeland M. , Tonstad S.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that reduces the intestinal absorption of fat and may enhance the effects of dietary and behavioural therapy on weight loss and maintenance. The present study examined the effect of orlistat on dietary intake, especially fat intake, during long‐term weight maintenance.

Methods:  Subjects comprised 44 men and women (aged 18–63 years; body mass index 37.5 ± 4.3 kg m−2) included in the Scandinavian Multicenter study of Obese subjects with the metabolic syndrome, a 3‐year clinical trial of orlistat or placebo following an 8‐week, very low energy diet (VLED). Two months after the end of the trial when the use of orlistat was optional, 33 subjects remained in the study. A dietary interview based on a validated food frequency questionnaire was conducted before the VLED, after 1 year of treatment with orlistat or placebo and 2 months after the end of the trial.

Results:  At 1 year, dietary intake did not differ between the orlistat and placebo group. Energy percent (E%) fat was reduced and E% carbohydrate was increased within both groups. Two months after the end of the trial, E% fat was 32.6% (SD 6.2%) in subjects that chose to take orlistat and 27.7% (SD 5.5%) in subjects not taking orlistat [between group difference −5.0% (95% confidence interval −9.2 to −0.7); P = 0.021].

Conclusions:  The use of orlistat compared with placebo in a lifestyle modification programme does not appear to influence dietary intake. Subjects that chose to take orlistat after the end of the programme did not comply with dietary recommendations and this may hamper the effect of the drug.
The role of diet in the management of gout: a comparison of knowledge and attitudes to current evidence
Authors: Shulten P. , Thomas J. , Miller M. , Smith M. , Ahern M.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Evidence supports dietary modifications in the management of gout. Despite this, the degree of implementation of this evidence by nutrition professionals and rheumatologists and those affected by gout is unknown. The present study aimed to compare usual dietary practices of patients with gout to evidence for dietary management of gout and to investigate whether the knowledge and attitudes of nutrition professionals and rheumatologists reflects current evidence.

Methods:  A food frequency questionnaire was used to determine usual dietary intake of patients with gout, a separate questionnaire examined gout‐related dietary modifications (n = 29). Online questionnaires to examine attitudes towards dietary management of gout were completed by nutrition professionals and rheumatologists.

Results:  Proportions of participants whose reported intakes were inconsistent with current evidence for the dietary management of gout were: alcohol, n = 14 (48%); beer, n = 18 (62%); seafood, n = 29 (100%); meat, n = 7 (24%); beef/pork/lamb, n = 24 (83%); dairy products, n = 12 (41%); vitamin C supplementation, n = 29 (100%). Of the 61 rheumatologists and 231 nutrition professionals who completed the online survey, the majority considered that weight loss and decreased alcohol intake were important or very important outcomes. Proportions were lower for decreased purine intake. Thirty‐four (56%) rheumatologists do not refer patients with gout to dietetic services and, of those who do, the majority refer less than half.

Conclusions:  Overall, patients with gout in the present study were not implementing evidence for dietary management of their condition and complex dietary issues were evident.
Video‐recorded participant behaviours: the association between food choices and observed behaviours from a web‐based diet history interview
Authors: Probst Y. C. , De Agnoli K. , Batterham M. , Tapsell L.
Published: January 2009

Background:  Automation of dietary assessments allows participant behaviour to be captured by video observation. It also allows clinicians to identify areas that effect reporting accuracy. The present observational study describes the differences in behaviour according to the type of foods selected by participants using a dietary assessment website encompassing diet history methodology.

Methods:  Eleven free‐living adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus were video recorded while using a dietary assessment website in a laboratory setting. Significant observable events were identified using TRANSANA software and matched for time of occurrence with grouped food item selections from the website. The frequency and proportion of behaviour types per food group were calculated and trends of associations between food groups and observed behaviour type were determined using weighted chi‐square analyses.

Results:  Sixteen categories of observed behaviour type were constructed from 7724 significant observable events. The food groups with the highest percentage of observed behaviour types were savoury sauces (7.66%), takeaways (6.47%), sugary foods (6.27%), fats and oils (5.93%), and alcoholic beverages (5.93%), which are all socially undesirable food groups. Self‐touching of the face, head movement, postural movement and movement in the chair were observed significantly more often than other observed behaviour types across all food groups.

Conclusions:  Behaviours related to the reporting of foods during a dietary assessment may have significant implications for dietary practice.
Effects of dobutamine on cardiac index and arterial blood pressure in isoflurane‐anaesthetized horses under clinical conditions
Authors: De VRIES A. , BREARLEY J. C. , TAYLOR P. M.
Published: January 2009

Volatile agent‐induced hypotension may contribute to anaesthetic‐related morbidity and mortality in horses. Dobutamine is commonly used to support arterial blood pressure (ABP) but little is known about its cardiovascular effects under clinical conditions. The aim of this clinical study was to elucidate the relationship between cardiovascular function and dobutamine infusion in isoflurane‐anaesthetized horses. Forty‐four horses anaesthetized for a variety of surgical procedures were studied. Premedication with acepromazine, methadone and detomidine was followed by induction of anaesthesia with ketamine and midazolam. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane vaporized in oxygen. Routine anaesthetic monitoring was applied and cardiac output was measured by lithium dilution. Dobutamine was infused to maintain mean ABP above 70 mmHg. The relationship between dobutamine infusion rate, heart rate (HR), ABP and cardiac index was investigated immediately prior to (T0) and 15 min (T1) after dobutamine infusion started, followed at 30 min intervals (T2, etc.). Arterial blood pressure increased significantly after dobutamine infusion started, HR and cardiac index increased significantly only with dobutamine infusion in combination with surgical stimulus. Although isoflurane decreases blood pressure mainly by vasodilation, dobutamine is an effective treatment for hypotension under clinical conditions in isoflurane‐anaesthetized horses. The effect of dobutamine is not directly proportional to dose and surgical stimulus probably contributes to the cardiovascular improvement.
Synthesis and detection of toltrazuril sulfone and its pharmacokinetics in horses following administration in dimethylsulfoxide
Authors: DIRIKOLU L. , KARPIESIUK W. , LEHNER A. F. , HUGHES C. , GRANSTROM D. E. , TOBIN T.
Published: January 2009

Triazine‐based antiprotozoal agents are known for their lipophylic characteristics and may therefore be expected to be well absorbed following oral administration. However, although an increase in lipid solubility generally increases the absorption of chemicals, extremely lipid‐soluble chemicals may dissolve poorly in gastrointestinal (GI) fluids, and their corresponding absorption and bioavailability would be low. Also, if the compound is administered in solid form and is relatively insoluble in GI fluids, it is likely to have limited contact with the GI mucosa, and therefore, its rate of absorption will be low. Based on the above considerations, we sought a solvent with low or no toxicity that would maintain triazine agents in solution. As the oral route is most preferred for daily drug therapy, such a solvent would allow an increased rate of absorption following oral administration. In present study, it was demonstrated that dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) increased the oral bioavailability of toltrazuril sulfone (Ponazuril) threefold, relative to oral administrations of toltrazuril sulfone suspended in water. The cross‐over study of toltrazuril sulfone formulated in DMSO indicated that the absolute oral bioavailability of toltrazuril sulfone in DMSO is 71%. The high bioavailability of the DMSO‐preparation suggests that its daily oral administration will routinely yield effective plasma and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) concentrations in all horses treated. Also, this improved formulation would allow clinicians to administer loading doses of toltrazuril sulfone in acute cases of Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis. Another option would involve administration of toltrazuril sulfone in DMSO mixed with feed (1.23 kg daily dose) meeting the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommendations for the levels of DMSO permissible in pharmaceutical preparations.
Human monoclonal IgG selection of Plasmodium falciparum for the expression of placental malaria‐specific variant surface antigens
Authors: SOERLI J. , BARFOD L. , LAVSTSEN T. , BERNASCONI N. L. , LANZAVECCHIA A. , HVIID L.
Published: January 2009

Pregnancy‐associated Plasmodium falciparum malaria (PAM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in African women and their offspring. PAM is characterized by accumulation of infected erythrocytes (IEs) that adhere to chondroitin sulphate A (CSA) in the placental intervillous space. We show here that human monoclonal IgG antibodies with specificity for variant surface antigens (VSA) specifically expressed by CSA‐adhering IEs (VSAPAM) can be used in vitro to select parasites from nonpregnant donors to express VSAPAM and that this selection for VSAPAM expression results in preferential transcription of var2csa. The results corroborate current efforts to develop PAM‐specific vaccines based on VAR2CSA.
Using combined measurements of gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence to estimate parameters of a biochemical C3 photosynthesis model: a critical appraisal and a new integrated approach applied to leaves in a wheat (Triticum aestivum) canopy
Authors: YIN XINYOU , STRUIK PAUL C. , ROMERO PASCUAL , HARBINSON JEREMY , EVERS JOCHEM B. , VAN DER PUTTEN PETER E. L. , VOS JAN
Published: January 2009

We appraised the literature and described an approach to estimate the parameters of the Farquhar, von Caemmerer and Berry model using measured CO2 assimilation rate (A) and photosystem II (PSII) electron transport efficiency (Φ2). The approach uses curve fitting to data of A and Φ2 at various levels of incident irradiance (Iinc), intercellular CO2 (Ci) and O2. Estimated parameters include day respiration (Rd), conversion efficiency of Iinc into linear electron transport of PSII under limiting light [κ2(LL)], electron transport capacity (Jmax), curvature factor (θ) for the non‐rectangular hyperbolic response of electron flux to Iinc, ribulose 1·5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) CO2/O2 specificity (Sc/o), Rubisco carboxylation capacity (Vcmax), rate of triose phosphate utilization (Tp) and mesophyll conductance (gm). The method is used to analyse combined gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence measurements on leaves of various ages and positions in wheat plants grown at two nitrogen levels. Estimated Sc/o (25 °C) was 3.13 mbar µbar−1; Rd was lower than respiration in the dark; Jmax was lower and θ was higher at 2% than at 21% O2; κ2(LL), Vcmax, Jmax and Tp correlated to leaf nitrogen content; and gm decreased with increasing Ci and with decreasing Iinc. Based on the parameter estimates, we surmised that there was some alternative electron transport.
Over‐expression of OsIRT1 leads to increased iron and zinc accumulations in rice
Authors: LEE SICHUL , AN GYNHEUNG
Published: January 2009

Uptake and translocation of micronutrients are essential for plant growth. These micronutrients are also important food components. We generated transgenic rice plants over‐expressing OsIRT1 to evaluate its functional roles in metal homeostasis. Those plants showed enhanced tolerance to iron deficiency at the seedling stage. In paddy fields, this over‐expression caused plant architecture to be altered. In addition, those plants were sensitive to excess Zn and Cd, indicating that OsIRT1 also transports those metals. As expected, iron and zinc contents were elevated in the shoots, roots and mature seeds of over‐expressing plants. This demonstrates that OsIRT1 can be used for enhancing micronutrient levels in rice grains.
A modular concept of plant foraging behaviour: the interplay between local responses and systemic control
Authors: DE KROON HANS , VISSER ERIC J. W. , HUBER HEIDRUN , MOMMER LIESJE , HUTCHINGS MICHAEL J.
Published: January 2009

In this paper we examined the notion that plant foraging for resources in heterogeneous environments must involve: (1) plasticity at the level of individual modules in reaction to localized environmental signals; and (2) the potential for modification of these responses either by the signals received from connected modules that may be exposed to different conditions, or by the signals reflecting the overall resource status of the plant. A conceptual model is presented to illustrate how plant foraging behaviour is achieved through these processes acting in concert, from the signal reception through signal transduction to morphological or physiological response. Evidence to support the concept is reviewed, using selective root placement under nutritionally heterogeneous conditions and elongation responses of stems and petioles to shade as examples. We discussed how the adoption of this model can promote understanding of the ecological significance of foraging behaviour. We also identified a need to widen the experimental repertoires of both molecular physiology and ecology in order to increase our insight into both the regulation and functioning of foraging responses, and their relationship with the patterns of environmental heterogeneity under which plants have evolved.
Environmental perception avenues: the interaction of cytokinin and environmental response pathways
Authors: ARGUESO CRISTIANA T. , FERREIRA FERNANDO J. , KIEBER JOSEPH J.
Published: January 2009

Cytokinins were discovered in the 1950s by their ability to promote cell division in cultured plant cells. Recently, there have been significant breakthroughs in our understanding of the biosynthesis, metabolism, perception and signal transduction of this phytohormone. These advances, coupled with physiological and other approaches, have enabled remarkable progress to be made in our understanding of the interactions between cytokinin function and environmental inputs. In this review, we first highlight the most recent advances in our understanding of cytokinin biosynthesis, metabolism and signalling. We then discuss how various environmental signals interact with these pathways to modulate plant growth, development and physiology.
Seed transmission ofMelon necrotic spot virusand efficacy of seed‐disinfection treatments
Authors: Herrera‐Vásquez J. A. , Córdoba‐Sellés M. C. , Cebrián M. C. , Alfaro‐Fernández A. , Jordá C.
Published: January 2009

Rates of seed transmission ofMelon necrotic spot virus(MNSV) were estimated in seedlings grown from commercial melon (Cucumis melo) cv. Galia F1seeds. Seedlings at the cotyledon stage and adult plants were assayed for MNSV by DAS‐ELISA and RT‐PCR. None of the seedling groups tested positive for MNSV by ELISA. The proportion of seedlings infected with MNSV was at least 7 and 8% in seed lots 05 and 06, respectively, as estimated from RT‐PCR analysis of grouped seedlings. Fourteen and eight grouped samples (10 seedlings per group), of a total of 200 and 100 seedlings, respectively, grown from infected seeds were MNSV‐positive in seed lots 05 and 06, respectively, corresponding to seed‐to‐seedling transmission rates of 11·3 and 14·8%, respectively. Several seed‐disinfection treatments were evaluated for their ability to prevent seed transmission of MNSV. The results suggest that a treatment of 144 h at 70°C can be used to eradicate MNSV in melon seeds without hindering germination.
Non‐Rotated Midgut in a Dog
Authors: Kirk E. J. , Nutman A. W. , Murray S. L.
Published: January 2009

Macroscopic observations of the partly‐dissected abdomen of the preserved cadaver of a Labrador bitch were recorded and photographs taken. Neither the duodenum nor the colon looped around the root of the great (jejuno‐ileal) mesentery, but both were long enough to have done so. The abdominal organs appeared to be otherwise normal, as did the other parts of the body. The condition appeared to have resulted from non‐rotation of the midgut during embryonic development and to have no adverse effect on the animal.
Growth performance and puberty attainment in growing pigs fed dietary fumonisin B1
Authors: Gbore F. A.
Published: January 2009

Twenty‐four male weaned piglets assigned to four diets containing 5.0, 10.0, 15.0 and 0.2 mg fumonisin B1 (FB1) /kg as diets 1, 2, 3 and control diet, respectively, were used to study the effect of dietary FB1 on growth and puberty attainment in pigs in a 6‐month feeding trial. Lower feed intake during 0–4 months and a non‐significant (p > 0.05) but FB1 concentration‐dependent decrease in live and DWGs in animals fed FB1‐contaminated diets was observed at the end of the pubertal phase. The daily and the final live weight gains of animals fed diet 3 were 75.8% and 90.6%, respectively, of the control values. The mean ages at puberty by boars on diets 2 and 3 were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those for animals on the control and diet 1. The animals on diet 3 attained puberty when mean live weight was 60.1 kg, some 30.3 days after the controls attained puberty, at 156.3 days, when the mean live weight was 46.9 kg. This study revealed that dietary FB1 delays sexual maturity in growing pigs. Male weanling pigs for breeding should not be exposed to dietary FB1 higher than 5 mg/kg for optimum growth and reproductive performance.
Effects of dietary additives (potassium diformate/organic acids) as well as influences of grinding intensity (coarse/fine) of diets for weaned piglets experimentally infected with Salmonella Derby or Escherichia coli
Authors: Taube V. A. , Neu M. E. , Hassan Y. , Verspohl J. , Beyerbach M. , Kamphues J.
Published: January 2009

The aim of this study was to examine whether and to what extent the addition of potassium diformate (pdf) or free organic acids (fpa) to the diet and the grinding intensity might affect the course of infection and the passage of orally applied Salmonella and Escherichia coli in pigs. Experiments were carried out using 80 reared piglets allotted to four groups. Pigs were fed pelleted diets ad libitum (except during a 15 h feed‐withholding‐period before infection). The control diet contained finely ground cereals (2 mm screen). To two test diets (also finely ground) 1.2% pdf, 0.9% organic acids (75% formic and 25% propionic acid, fpa) respectively were added. The fourth diet (without acids) was based on coarsely ground cereals (6‐mm screen). After experimental infection alternately with S. Derby or E. coli, the course of infection was examined (rectal swab technique). Pigs were sacrificed 4–5 h after a further oral application of ∼109–1010 CFU S. Derby or E. coli to determine the counts of Salmonella or E. coli in chyme (classical culture methods). Adding pdf or fpa to the diet led to reduced Salmonella shedding and resulted in significantly lower counts of Salmonella and E. coli in the stomach content indicating an improved efficacy of the stomach barrier. In the distal parts of the digestive tract, the effect was less obvious concerning counts of E. coli, whereas counts of Salmonella were reduced markedly as well. The diet based on coarsely ground cereals failed to demonstrate positive effects concerning infection and passage of orally applied bacteria as well, but this diet was also pelleted and showed unintentionally, comparable amounts of fine particles. Results obtained in this study allow the recommendation of using pdf or organic acids as additives when dietary measures against Salmonella or E. coli in pigs are required.
Shortening the Postpartum Anoestrous Interval in Suckled Crossbred Dual Purpose Cows Using Progestagen Intravaginal Sponges plus eCG and PGF2α
Authors: Gutiérrez JC , Palomares R , González R , Portillo G , Montero‐Urdaneta M , Rubio‐Guillén J , Hernández‐Fonseca HJ. , Soto‐Belloso E
Published: January 2009

Contents

One hundred and twenty‐six suckled crossbred cows (Bos taurus × Bos indicus), with body condition score ≥3 (1–5 point scale), were employed in the present study to evaluate the effectiveness of intravaginal progestin‐releasing sponges (IVS) for shortening anoestrous interval. Fifty‐four cows were assigned to control group. Seventy‐two cows were treated with IVS impregnated with 250 mg of medroxy‐acetate‐progesterone (MAP) as follows: day 0, IVS plus 5 mg of 17β‐E and 50 mg of MAP i.m.; day 6, 500 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin and 25 mg prostaglandin F2α i.m.; day 8, IVS withdrawal and day 9, 1 mg 17β‐E i.m. Cows were also grouped according to postpartum days (dpp) at treatment: MAP <70 days (n = 25); control <70 days (n = 22); MAP >70 days (n = 47); control >70 days (n = 32). From IVS removal, cows were detected in oestrus and inseminated. Cows not detected in oestrus were timed artificial insemination 72 h after sponge removal. Treatment effect on oestrous rate (ER), conception rate (CR), pregnancy rate (PR) and treatment to conception intervals (TCI) and calving to conception intervals (CCI) were evaluated. The ER, CR and PR were analysed using proc logistic, while TCI and CCI with proc glm of SAS. The groups MAP <70 days and MAP >70 days showed higher (p < 0.01) ER than control <70 days and control >70 days (84.0% and 76.6% vs 31.8% and 31.3% respectively). The PR was higher (p < 0.01) in MAP <70 days vs control <70 days (64.0% vs 22.7%) and also higher (p < 0.05) in MAP >70 days vs control <70 days (40.4% vs 18.8%). The TCI and CCI were shorter (p < 0.01) in MAP <70 days vs control <70 days (36.0 and 95.8 days; 95.3 and 158.6 days respectively). In conclusion, only cows treated with IVS before 70 dpp had a CCI shorter than 100 days, consequently this treatment shortened postpartum anoestrous interval in crossbred dual purpose cattle.
Evaluation of an employment program for people with mental illness using the Supported Employment Fidelity Scale
Authors: Cocks Errol , Boaden Ross
Published: January 2009

Background: The Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model aims to achieve open employment for people with mental illness. The Supported Employment Fidelity Scale (SEFS) is a 15‐item instrument that evaluates the extent to which a service follows the IPS principles of best practice. This paper describes the IPS model and an evaluation of a specialist employment program for people with mental illness using the SEFS.

Methods: The SEFS enabled a quantitative assessment of service provision against the criteria of evidence‐based practice principles. Data were collected from multiple sources. In addition, a literature review was conducted, and personnel engaged in implementation of the IPS model at other Australian employment programs were consulted.

Results: The program achieved a score of 59 of a possible 75 on the SEFS, which is described as fair supported employment.

Discussion: Analysis of the 15‐scale items resulted in the identification of strengths, areas for further development, and a set of recommendations.

Conclusions: The program was operating substantially in line with evidence‐based practice principles and had considerable scope for further development. Issues arising from the evaluation, areas of applicability of the SEFS and the underlying literature, and implications for occupational therapy are highlighted.
Adiponectin is increased and correlated with the degree of proteinuria, but plasma leptin is not changed in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis
Authors: HAYAKAWA KAZUYOSHI , OHASHI HIROSHIGE , YOKOYAMA HARUKO , YOSHIDA GAKURO , OKADA MIHO , MINATOGUCHI SHINYA
Published: January 2009

Aim:  Altered regulation of adiponectin and leptin may be relevant to endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular complications in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis.

Methods:  The relationship between the levels of plasma adiponectin, leptin and proteinuria, glomerular filtration rate and metabolic risk factors was investigated in 38 patients with chronic glomerulonephritis.

Results:  Plasma adiponectin was much higher in patients with heavy proteinuria (38.8 ± 27.8 µg/mL) than in patients with mild proteinuria (13.3 ± 5.1 µg/mL, P < 0.001) and with moderate proteinuria (18.1 ± 8.0 µg/mL, P < 0.01). The levels of serum leptin were not changed among these groups. Proteinuria and lipoprotein(a) were a strong and direct correlate of plasma adiponectin (r = 0.75, P < 0.0001), while serum albumin and the glomerular filtration rate correlated inversely with this protein (r = −0.56, P = 0.0002; r = 0.38, P = 0.02). Body mass index and triglyceride were direct correlates (r = 0.37, P = 0.02 and r = 0.37, P = 0.02, respectively) of plasma leptin in patients with glomerulonephritis.

Conclusions:  Plasma adiponectin but not plasma leptin levels correlate with proteinuria in patients with chronic glomerulonephritis.
Mechanistic niche modelling: combining physiological and spatial data to predict species’ ranges
Authors: Kearney Michael , Porter Warren
Published: January 2009

Species distribution models (SDMs) use spatial environmental data to make inferences on species’ range limits and habitat suitability. Conceptually, these models aim to determine and map components of a species’ ecological niche through space and time, and they have become important tools in pure and applied ecology and evolutionary biology. Most approaches are correlative in that they statistically link spatial data to species distribution records. An alternative strategy is to explicitly incorporate the mechanistic links between the functional traits of organisms and their environments into SDMs. Here, we review how the principles of biophysical ecology can be used to link spatial data to the physiological responses and constraints of organisms. This provides a mechanistic view of the fundamental niche which can then be mapped to the landscape to infer range constraints. We show how physiologically based SDMs can be developed for different organisms in different environmental contexts. Mechanistic SDMs have different strengths and weaknesses to correlative approaches, and there are many exciting and unexplored prospects for integrating the two approaches. As physiological knowledge becomes better integrated into SDMs, we will make more robust predictions of range shifts in novel or non‐equilibrium contexts such as invasions, translocations, climate change and evolutionary shifts.
Genome sequence ofDesulfobacterium autotrophicumHRM2, a marine sulfate reducer oxidizing organic carbon completely to carbon dioxide
Authors: Strittmatter Axel W. , Liesegang Heiko , Rabus Ralf , Decker Iwona , Amann Judith , Andres Sönke , Henne Anke , Fricke Wolfgang Florian , Martinez‐Arias Rosa , Bartels Daniela , Goesmann Alexander , Krause Lutz , Pühler Alfred , Klenk Hans‐Peter , Richter Michael , Schüler Margarete , Glöckner Frank Oliver , Meyerdierks Anke , Gottschalk Gerhard , Amann Rudolf
Published: January 2009

Sulfate‐reducing bacteria (SRB) belonging to the metabolically versatileDesulfobacteriaceaeare abundant in marine sediments and contribute to the global carbon cycle by complete oxidation of organic compounds.Desulfobacterium autotrophicumHRM2 is the first member of this ecophysiologically important group with a now available genome sequence. With 5.6 megabasepairs (Mbp) the genome ofDb. autotrophicumHRM2 is about 2 Mbp larger than the sequenced genomes of other sulfate reducers (SRB). A high number of genome plasticity elements (> 100 transposon‐related genes), several regions of GC discontinuity and a high number of repetitive elements (132 paralogous genes Mbp−1) point to a different genome evolution when comparing withDesulfovibriospp. The metabolic versatility ofDb. autotrophicumHRM2 is reflected in the presence of genes for the degradation of a variety of organic compounds including long‐chain fatty acids and for the Wood–Ljungdahl pathway, which enables the organism to completely oxidize acetyl‐CoA to CO2but also to grow chemolithoautotrophically. The presence of more than 250 proteins of the sensory/regulatory protein families should enableDb. autotrophicumHRM2 to efficiently adapt to changing environmental conditions. Genes encoding periplasmic or cytoplasmic hydrogenases and formate dehydrogenases have been detected as well as genes for the transmembrane TpII‐c3, Hme and Rnf complexes. Genes for subunits A, B, C and D as well as for the proposed novel subunits L and F of the heterodisulfide reductases are present. This enzyme is involved in energy conservation in methanoarchaea and it is speculated that it exhibits a similar function in the process of dissimilatory sulfate reduction inDb. autotrophicumHRM2.
The ‘buoy’ stent: evaluation of a prototype indwelling ureteric stent in a porcine model
Authors: Krebs Alfred , Deane Leslie A. , Borin James F. , Edwards Robert A. , Sala Leandro G. , Khan Farhan , Abdelshehid Corollos , McDougall Elspeth M. , Clayman Ralph V.
Published: January 2009

OBJECTIVE

To assess a prototype ureteric ‘buoy’ stent with a 10 F upper body tapering to a 3F tail, developed to potentially reduce stent‐related irritative symptoms while providing an adequate mould for healing after endopyelotomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Eighteen Yucatan minipigs had the stent placed either into the intact ureter (phase I) or after Acucise proximal endoureterotomy (phase II). Buoy stents were compared to 10/7 F endopyelotomy stents and to standard 7 F stents in phases I and II, respectively. The pigs were assessed for vesico‐ureteric reflux, hydronephrosis and infection, before stent insertion and at harvest. Stents were weighed before and after placement and the removal force was measured. Pressure/flow studies, antegrade nephrostograms and specimens for histopathology from the renal pelvis, ureter and vesico‐ureteric junction (VUJ) were obtained at harvest.

RESULTS

Thirteen minipigs survived the entire study. Ureteric flow with the stents in situ was better for buoy stents than for 10/7 F stents (P < 0.005). Ureteric flow after endoureterotomy and subsequent stent removal was similar for buoy stents and standard 7 F stents. None of the stents refluxed. There was no difference between stents in removal force, weight change or incidence of hydronephrosis. At 1 and 12 weeks, buoy stents tended to produce lower histopathological alteration scores than control stents, especially at the VUJ (phase I, 2.0 vs 3.9, P = 0.092; phase II, 0.6 vs 1.7, P = 0.18).

CONCLUSIONS

The novel buoy stents are easily placed and removed via the urethra. They can cause less VUJ inflammation than standard stents while allowing for adequate ureteric flow and healing after proximal endoureterotomy.
Liraglutide, a once‐daily human GLP‐1 analogue, added to a sulphonylurea over 26 weeks produces greater improvements in glycaemic and weight control compared with adding rosiglitazone or placebo in subjects with Type 2 diabetes (LEAD‐1 SU)
Authors: Marre M. , Shaw J. , Brändle M. , Bebakar W. M. W. , Kamaruddin N. A. , Strand J. , Zdravkovic M. , Le Thi T. D. , Colagiuri S. ,   on behalf of the LEAD‐1 SU study group
Published: January 2009

Aim  To compare the effects of combining liraglutide (0.6, 1.2 or 1.8 mg/day) or rosiglitazone 4 mg/day (all n ≥ 228) or placebo (n = 114) with glimepiride (2–4 mg/day) on glycaemic control, body weight and safety in Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  In total, 1041 adults (mean ± sd), age 56 ± 10 years, weight 82 ± 17 kg and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) 8.4 ± 1.0% at 116 sites in 21 countries were stratified based on previous oral glucose‐lowering mono : combination therapies (30 : 70%) to participate in a five‐arm, 26‐week, double‐dummy, randomized study.

Results  Liraglutide (1.2 or 1.8 mg) produced greater reductions in HbA1c from baseline, (−1.1%, baseline 8.5%) compared with placebo (+0.2%, P < 0.0001, baseline 8.4%) or rosiglitazone (−0.4%, P < 0.0001, baseline 8.4%) when added to glimepiride. Liraglutide 0.6 mg was less effective (−0.6%, baseline 8.4%). Fasting plasma glucose decreased by week 2, with a 1.6 mmol/l decrease from baseline at week 26 with liraglutide 1.2 mg (baseline 9.8 mmol/l) or 1.8 mg (baseline 9.7 mmol/l) compared with a 0.9 mmol/l increase (placebo, P < 0.0001, baseline 9.5 mmol/l) or 1.0 mmol/l decrease (rosiglitazone, P < 0.006, baseline 9.9 mmol/l). Decreases in postprandial plasma glucose from baseline were greater with liraglutide 1.2 or 1.8 mg [−2.5 to −2.7 mmol/l (baseline 12.9 mmol/l for both)] compared with placebo (−0.4 mmol/l, P < 0.0001, baseline 12.7 mmol/l) or rosiglitazone (−1.8 mmol/l, P < 0.05, baseline 13.0 mmol/l). Changes in body weight with liraglutide 1.8 mg (−0.2 kg, baseline 83.0 kg), 1.2 mg (+0.3 kg, baseline 80.0 kg) or placebo (−0.1 kg, baseline 81.9 kg) were less than with rosiglitazone (+2.1 kg, P < 0.0001, baseline 80.6 kg). Main adverse events for all treatments were minor hypoglycaemia (< 10%), nausea (< 11%), vomiting (< 5%) and diarrhoea (< 8%).

Conclusions  Liraglutide added to glimepiride was well tolerated and provided improved glycaemic control and favourable weight profile.
Prevalence of GORD (gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease) in Type 2 diabetes and a comparison of clinical profiles between diabetic patients with and without GORD
Authors: Horikawa A. , Ishii‐Nozawa R. , Ohguro M. , Takagi S. , Ohtuji M. , Yamada M. , Kuzuya N. , Ujihara N. , Ujihara M. , Takeuchi K.
Published: January 2009

Aims  To examine the incidence of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and its associated factors in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (Type 2 DM).

Methods  In 859 Type 2 DM outpatients, we conducted a QUEST inquiry and considered those showing a QUEST score of 4 or higher as having GORD. We surveyed clinical variables {physical findings, gender, age, duration of disease, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), type of oral glucose‐lowering agent, presence or absence of insulin therapy, complications, and presence or absence of agents that may be associated with GORD [Ca channel blocker (CCB) anti‐platelet agents]} to investigate their association with the onset of GORD.

Results  We analysed 813 subjects, of whom 56.6% were male. The mean age was 63.7 ± 11.3 years and HbA1c 7.2 ± 1.2%. The incidence of GORD was 29.0% (n = 221). GORD was positively correlated with body weight, body mass index (BMI) and HbA1c. It was negatively correlated with age, serum creatinine and proportion of patients treated with pioglitazone or CCB. In addition, GORD was more common in females. The incidence of GORD was significantly higher in younger patients.

Conclusions  Previous studies have suggested a relationship of GORD with pioglitazone/CCB. However, the results of this study do not support this; these agents may not induce GORD.
A Methodology for Object Identification and Tracking in Construction Based on Spatial Modeling and Image Matching Techniques
Authors: Chi Seokho , Caldas Carlos H. , Kim Dae Young
Published: January 2009

Abstract: Understanding the motion characteristics of on‐site objects is desirable for the analysis of construction work zones, especially in problems related to safety and productivity studies. This article presents a methodology for rapid object identification and tracking. The proposed methodology contains algorithms for spatial modeling and image matching. A high‐frame‐rate range sensor was utilized for spatial data acquisition. The experimental results indicated that an occupancy grid spatial modeling algorithm could quickly build a suitable work zone model from the acquired data. The results also showed that an image matching algorithm is able to find the most similar object from a model database and from spatial models obtained from previous scans. It is then possible to use the matched information to successfully identify and track objects.
Pore Pressure and Viscous Shear Stress Distribution Due to Water Flow within Asphalt Pore Structure
Authors: Kutay M. Emin , Aydilek Ahmet H.
Published: January 2009

Abstract: There has been a concentrated effort in modeling fluid flow in asphalt pavements, and most of the existing work has been limited to evaluation of directional permeabilities. The effects of other phenomena, such as development of flow‐induced pore pressure and viscous shear stress distributions at the pore–solid interfaces, on moisture damage in an asphalt pore structure have not been fully understood. A three‐dimensional (3D) numerical fluid flow model was developed using the lattice Boltzmann (LB) method to simulate water flow within the pore structures of various hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavements. In this article, an in‐depth analysis of variations of pore pressures and viscous shear stresses caused by water flow within the 3D pore structure of different HMA specimens is provided. The relationship between the pore geometry and the pore water pressure and viscous shear stresses were studied. Pore pressures and viscous shear stresses were computed after 3D fluid flow simulations conducted within the real pore structures of numerous HMA specimens. X‐ray computed tomography (CT) was used to acquire 3D pore structures of HMA specimens, and the obtained images were input into the LB model. The results indicated that the pore water pressure gradient is highly nonlinear within the pore structure of HMA pavements, as opposed to a linear gradient commonly observed in homogeneous pore structures (e.g., granular soils). The viscous shear stresses were observed to be the largest at the constrictions located at the mid‐depth of the specimens. Furthermore, a one‐to‐one relationship was observed between the reduction in the pore area and viscous shear stresses developed during the water flow.
Noncontact Operational Modal Analysis of Structural Members by Laser Doppler Vibrometer
Authors: Siringoringo Dionysius M. , Fujino Yozo
Published: January 2009

Abstract:  A system that uses ambient vibration and two laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) is developed for noncontact operational modal analysis of structural members. The system employs natural excitation technique (NExT) to generate the cross‐correlation functions from laser signals, and the eigensystem realization algorithm (ERA) to identify modal parameters of structural members. To facilitate simultaneous modal identification, time‐synchronization technique and construction of cross‐correlation functions from ambient response of laser signals are proposed. Performance of the proposed system is verified experimentally by evaluating the consistency and accuracy of identification results in different measurement conditions. The work presented here is an extension of the previous study, where a modal‐based damage detection method using LDV was formulated. In the present study, application of LDV for structural parameters identification of a combined dynamical system is proposed. A model that represents the connection properties in terms of additional stiffness and damping is developed, and its importance for structural damage detection is discussed. The study shows that the presence of simulated damage in a steel connection can be detected by tracking the modal phase difference and by quantifying the additional stiffness and damping.