bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are topical oestrogens useful in faecal incontinence? Double‐blind randomized trial
Authors: Pinedo G. , García E. , Zárate A. J. , León F. , Bellolio F. , Molina M. E. , Viviani P. , Zúñiga Á.
Published: July 2008

Background  Histopathological studies have shown the presence of oestrogenic receptors in the anal sphincter, which presumes a role in muscular trophism for circulating oestrogens. This could explain the increase in faecal incontinence (FI) in postmenopausal women.

Objective  To evaluate the effect of topical oestrogens (TE) in controlling symptoms of FI in postmenopausal women.

Hypothesis  The application of TE in postmenopausal women with FI improves continence.

Method  We performed a prospective double‐blind randomized trial applying TE to the anal mucosa in postmenopausal women with FI. Study period: 2005–2006. The patients were randomized into two groups: I – topical estriol, II – placebo. In both groups, the ointment was applied three times daily for a period of 6 weeks. We compared Wexner’s FI score and the FI quality of life scale, before commencing and after 6 weeks of application.

Results  In this period we evaluated 36 patients. Average age: 67 years (48–84). Group I: 18 patients and group II: 18 patients, one patient was excluded. Wexner’s FI score in group I was 11 (5–18) and 7 (0–19) with pre‐ and postapplication respectively (P = 0.002). Wexner’s FI score in group II was 12 and 9 with pre‐ and postapplication respectively (P = 0.013). When we compared the results between both groups, this was not statistically significant (P = 0.521).

Conclusion  There is improvement of continence in both groups that had the ointment applied; nonetheless this study could not show that TE improves FI more than a placebo does.
Staged or simultaneous resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer – a systematic review
Authors: Hillingsø J. G. , Wille‐Jørgensen P.
Published: July 2008

Objective  A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to estimate the differences in length of hospital stay, morbidity, mortality and long‐term survival between staged and simultaneous resection of synchronous liver metastases from colorectal cancer to determine the level of evidence for recommendations of a treatment strategy.

Method  A Pub‐med search was undertaken for studies comparing patients with synchronous liver metastases, who either had a combined or staged resection of metastases. Twenty‐six were considered and 16 were included based on Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. All studies were retrospective and had a general bias, because the staged procedure was significantly more often undertaken in patients with left‐sided primary tumours and larger, more numerous and bi‐lobar metastases. Analyses of primary outcomes were performed using the random effects model.

Results  For the reason of the heterogeneity of the observational studies, no odds ratios were calculated. In 11 studies, there was a tendency towards a shorter hospital stay in the synchronous resection group. Fourteen studies compared total perioperative morbidity and lower morbidity was observed in favour of a combined resection. Fifteen studies compared perioperative mortality, which seemed to be lower with the staged approach. Eleven studies compared 5‐year survival, which seemed to be similar in the two groups.

Conclusion  No randomized controlled trials were identified, and hence a meta‐analysis was not performed. The evidence level is II to III with grade C recommendations. Synchronous resections can be undertaken in selected patients, provided that surgeons specialized in colorectal and hepatobiliary surgery are available.
Heartless and primitive? 3D reconstruction of the polar acochlidian gastropod Asperspina murmanica
Authors: Neusser Timea P. , Martynov Alexander V. , Schrödl Michael
Published: July 2008

This study re‐examines in detail the microanatomy of the Arctic opisthobranch Asperspina murmanica, the only acochlidian that was described as retaining a well‐developed mantle cavity, and evaluates its supposedly basal position within the Acochlidia. Several specimens were recollected at the type locality in Russia. Spicules and radulae were studied by scanning electron microscopy. Semithin sections were prepared and a computer‐based three‐dimensional reconstruction of all major organ systems was made using amira software. Our results show significant differences from the original description, e.g. the nervous system shows paired rhinophoral and gastro‐oesophageal ganglia and large aggregations of precerebral accessory ganglia, whereas the presence of a postulated posterior genital ganglion can be excluded; the radula is asymmetric; the circulatory system includes a small heart; and the reproductive system comprises a sac‐like ampulla and three female glands. The most surprising discrepancy to the original description refers to the complete absence of any mantle cavity. The gonopore, anus and nephropore open separately to the exterior. Instead of being aberrant or basal, A. murmanica fits well with other Asperspina species and comes closest to the Mediterranean Asperspina rhopalotecta. The monotypic genus/family Minicheviella/Minicheviellidae Starobogatov (1983) is confirmed as a junior synonym of Asperspina/Asperspinidae Rankin (1979).
Sensillary morphology on the rostral apex and their possible role in prey location behaviour of the carnivorous stinkbug, Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Usha Rani Pathipati
Published: July 2008

Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff), the carnivorous heteropteran, demonstrates interesting feeding mechanisms that suggest the involvement of the antennal and labial tip sensilla. This study was conducted to identify the morphology of various sensilla present on the labial tip of this insect using scanning electron microscopy. Four morphologically different types of trichoid sensilla comprise the largest and most numerous sensilla and occur throughout the surface of the labial tip. Three new and unique types of sensilla were discovered. Long hairs with profusely branched shafts are present at the entrance of the rostral groove. An oval‐shaped peg surrounded by sensory hairs with branched shafts and a short, stout peg encircled by a group of long hair‐like sensilla was found among the sensilla population of two lobes. The morphology of the new sensilla is given and possible functions of individual receptors are suggested on morphological grounds.
Industry‐funded fishing license reduction good for both profits and conservation
Authors: Martell Steven J. , Walters Carl , Sumaila Ussif Rashid
Published: July 2008

For many commercial fisheries, reductions in fishing effort would likely result in higher long‐term catches and improved incomes per fisherman. But fishing licenses are perceived as though they were property rights, which can imply relatively high costs for publicly funded buyback programmes to reduce fishing effort. Instead of the public buying out fishing licenses, it can make good business sense for license holders to expect the public to pay for protection against new licenses, and to proceed under this protection to finance buybacks of licenses themselves. The short‐run costs of such an investment are outweighed by long‐term gains in annual incomes and the transfer value of licenses at the time of individual retirement, especially in fisheries that are severely overfished.
A different world? Literary reading in family therapists' personal and professional development
Authors: Burns Liz , Dallos Rudi
Published: July 2008

The importance of literature as a source of inspiration and enrichment for therapy has long been acknowledged, but has not so far been explored in detail via the experience of therapists themselves. This paper presents aspects of a qualitative study exploring therapists' views and practices in relation to their reading of novels, plays and poetry. The participants were senior family therapists actively engaged in clinical, training and supervision contexts. The influences of literary reading were identified in interview transcripts by means of thematic analysis. Effects were noted in participants' accounts of therapeutic practice and of their personal/professional development and a creative relationship was seen to emerge between the ‘language of literature’ and the ‘different worlds’ experienced in literary reading. The relationship between the experiential world of literature and that of therapy is discussed and implications for practice considered.
Drawing a family map: an experiential tool for engaging children in family therapy
Authors: Dumont Raymonde H.
Published: July 2008

Inclusion of children in the treatment process is a central aspect of the discipline of family therapy. Young children's verbal skill and level of abstraction may not be suited to ‘talking therapy’, but they have an intuitive grasp of family life which is invaluable, and their views and needs should be considered when effecting change in the family system. A method is offered to engage young children, adolescents and adults of divergent verbal skills into a shared process. It requires no special set‐up or tools, only paper and markers. Distance and proximity are represented in a simple map of the family, adding symbols for affection and conflict. A spatial representation of the family system is created, and may be referred to in the course of the therapy.
Thematic review of family therapy journals in 2007
Authors: Carr Alan
Published: July 2008

In 2007 many developments in a broad range of areas were covered in the family therapy journals. In this review, reference will be made to particularly significant papers but also to the less significant but representative articles in the areas of child‐focused problems, adult‐focused problems, couples, divorce, diversity, developments in systemic practice, assessment, training, research, international professional developments and deaths.
Distinctive transcriptome responses to adverse environmental conditions in Zea mays L.
Authors: Fernandes John , Morrow Darren J. , Casati Paula , Walbot Virginia
Published: July 2008

Maize seedling transcriptome responses to six abiotic perturbations (heat, cold, darkness, desiccation, salt, ultraviolet‐B) were analysed. Approximately 7800 transcripts were expressed in one or more treatments compared with light‐grown seedlings plus juvenile leaves from field‐grown plants. Approximately 5200 transcripts were expressed in one or more treatments and absent in light‐grown seedlings. Approximately 2000 transcripts were unique to one treatment. Salt and heat elicited the largest number of transcript changes; however, salt resulted in mostly a decreased abundance of transcripts, whereas heat shock resulted in mostly an increased abundance of transcripts. A total of 384 transcripts were common to all stress treatments and not expressed in light‐grown seedlings; 146 transcripts were present in light‐grown seedlings and absent from all stress treatments. A complex pattern of overlapping transcripts between treatments was found, and a significant pattern of congruence in the direction of transcript change between pairs of treatments was uncovered. From the analysis, it appears that the scope of gene expression changes is determined by the challenge, indicating specificity in perception and response. Nonetheless, transcripts regulated by multiple responses are generally affected in the same manner, indicating common or converging regulatory networks. The data are available for additional analysis through a searchable database.
Rapid naming deficits in dyslexia: a stumbling block for the perceptual anchor theory of dyslexia
Authors: Di Filippo Gloria , Zoccolotti Pierluigi , Ziegler Johannes C.
Published: July 2008

According to a recent theory of dyslexia, the perceptual anchor theory, children with dyslexia show deficits in classic auditory and phonological tasks not because they have auditory or phonological impairments but because they are unable to form a ‘perceptual anchor’ in tasks that rely on a small set of repeated stimuli. The theory makes the strong prediction that rapid naming deficits should only be present in small sets of repeated items, not in large sets of unrepeated items. The present research tested this prediction by comparing rapid naming performance of a small set of repeated items with that of a large set of unrepeated items. The results were unequivocal. Deficits were found both for small and large sets of objects and numbers. The deficit was actually bigger for large sets than for small sets, which is the opposite of the prediction made by the anchor theory. In conclusion, the perceptual anchor theory does not provide a satisfactory account of some of the major hallmark effects of developmental dyslexia.
Stigmatization of obese children and adolescents, the importance of gender
Authors: Tang‐Péronard J. L. , Heitmann B. L.
Published: July 2008

To review the literature on stigmatization of overweight girls and boys, with a specific attention to gender differences, a search was performed in the medical as well as the psychological literature. The following databases, Medline, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane as well as Google were used to retrieve information. Finally, chain references were sought. The search was concluded mid‐2006. In total, 17 studies were identified. The results from the studies generally indicated that overweight girls seemed to experience a higher degree of stigmatization than overweight boys. The overweight girls were to a larger degree teased about their weight and relationally, verbally and physically bullied. In addition, they were more socially marginalized in respect to friendships and romantic relationships. Stigmatization of overweight children and adolescents indeed occurs, but is more prevalent in overweight girls than overweight boys. There is a need to conduct further studies that are specifically designed to evaluate gender differences in stigmatization of overweight children and adolescents, and for studies focusing on preventing this stigmatization.
COMPETITION OR MONOPOLY? COMPARING PRIVATIZATION OF LOCAL PUBLIC SERVICES IN THE US AND SPAIN
Authors: WARNER MILDRED E. , BEL GERMÀ
Published: July 2008

Differences in national traditions of public intervention, institutional arrangements and public service markets make local public services an area of great diversity. In this paper we undertake a comparative study of how local governments arrange for delivery of water and waste services in the US and Spain. We find levels of privatization are higher in Spain than in the US. We review organizational reform in the two contexts and compare service delivery data using national surveys from each country. We find lower and less stable privatization in the US stems in part from adherence to public choice emphasis on the benefits of market competition over public monopoly. By contrast, Spanish municipalities reflect an industrial organization approach, and create hybrid public/private firms which benefit from both market engagement and economies of scale available under monopoly production. We conclude that managing monopoly may be more important than competition in local service delivery.
GOVERNMENT CALLING: PUBLIC SERVICE MOTIVATION AS AN ELEMENT IN SELECTING GOVERNMENT AS AN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE
Authors: VANDENABEELE WOUTER
Published: July 2008

The article assesses public service motivation as a possible influence in the attractiveness of government as an employer by embedding it into a person‐organization fit framework. First, a theoretical framework is developed and all relevant concepts are discussed. In addition, a set of hypotheses concerning the research question is developed. A sample of 1714 final year masters students demonstrates that the presence of public service motivation positively correlates with the preference for prospective public employers. For government organizations that display a high degree of publicness, the effect of public service motivation as a predictor for employer preference is stronger. Next to building a middle range theory on public service motivation, the article also reveals that public service motivation is present at a pre‐entry level.
Spectrofluorimetric determination of tranexamic acid in hydrogel patch formulations by derivatization with naphthalene‐2, 3‐dicarboxaldehyde/cyanide
Authors: Duangrat Chadarat , Wongsri Kiattikun , Pongpaibul Yanee
Published: July 2008

The aim of this research was to develop and validate a spectrofluorimetric method for determination of tranexamic acid in hydrogel patch formulations. Tranexamic acid (trans‐4‐aminomethylcyclohexanecarboxylic acid, trans‐AMCHA) is an antifibrinolytic drug that recently gained attention as a skin‐whitening agent due to its inhibitory effect on ultraviolet (UV)‐induced pigmentation in vivo. Derivatization with naphthalene‐2, 3‐dicarboxaldehyde (NDA) in the presence of cyanide ion (CN‐) to produce a fluorescent 1‐cyanobenz[f]isoindole (CBI) product (?ex = 420 nm, ?em = 480 nm) [[Au: Please check the symbol.]] is for the first time reported for the determination of tranexamic acid in hydrogel patch formulations. Other separation techniques were not used in the analysis of the CBI‐fluorescent product as required in the previous studies. The developed method was proven to be precise and accurate with percent recoveries ranging between 98.0% and 101.8% at the concentration range of 8.4–84.0 μg/ml (R2 > 0.999). The intra‐and inter‐day precisions as expressed by the relative standard deviations (RSD) were below 1.85%. Derivatization of tranexamic acid with NDA/CN‐was completed within 5 min and was stable for at least 30 min. The method has been applied to the analysis of drug content and release profiles in tranexamic hydrogel patch formulations.
Why is sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) mild to the skin barrier?–An in vitro investigation based on the relative sizes of the SCI micelles and the skin aqueous pores
Authors: Ghosh Saswata , Blankschtein Daniel
Published: July 2008

Sodium cocoyl isethionate (SCI) is an important surfactant ingredient in mild, syndet (synthetic detergent) cleansing bars. In vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that SCI is mild and less damaging to the skin barrier than soaps and surfactants such as sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). We have recently shown that SDS forms small micelles in aqueous solutions contacting the skin relative to the aqueous pores in the stratum corneum (SC), and as a result, the SDS micelles can contribute to SDS skin penetration and induce skin barrier perturbation. In this paper, we attempt to explain the well‐documented skin mildness of SCI by examining the size of the SCI micelles relative to that of the aqueous pores in the SC. For this purpose, we have conducted in vitro mannitol skin permeability and average skin electrical resistivity measurements upon exposure of the skin to an aqueous SCI contacting solution in the context of a hindered‐transport aqueous porous pathway model of the SC. These in vitro studies demonstrate that an SCI micelle of radius 33.5 ± 1 Å (as determined using dynamic light‐scattering measurements) experiences significant steric hindrance and cannot penetrate into the SC through aqueous pores that have an average radius of 29 ± 5 Å.We believe that this inability of the SCI micelles to contribute to SCI skin penetration and associated skin barrier perturbation is responsible for the observed skin mildness of SCI. Through in vitro quantitative skin radioactivity assays using 14C‐radiolabeled SCI and pig full‐thickness skin (p‐FTS), we also show conclusively that SCI skin penetration is dose‐independent, an important finding that provides additional evidence that the larger SCI micelles cannot penetrate into the SC through the smaller aqueous pores that exist in the SC, and therefore, cannot induce skin barrier perturbation.
Vehicle and enhancer effects on human skin penetration of aminophylline from cream formulations: Evaluation in vivo
Authors: Wang Lai‐Hao , Wang Chia‐Chen , Kuo Su‐Ching
Published: July 2008

The effects of four essential oils (rosemary, ylang, lilacin, and peppermint oils), and three plant oils (jojoba oil, corn germ oil, and olive oil) on the permeation of aminophylline were studied using human skin. The permeation effects of these oils were compared with those of three chemical penetration enhancers. Although, all oils enhanced the permeation of aminophylline, their effects were less than that of ethanol. Jojoba oil was found to be the most active, causing about a 32% peak height decrease of N–H bending absorbances in comparison with the control, while peppermint, lilacin, rosemary, and ylang oils caused 28%, 24%, 18%, and 12% peak height decreases, respectively. Microemulsions containing 10% jojoba oil and 30% corn germ oil were found to be superior vehicles for the percutaneous absorption of aminophylline. Comparision with results obtained from high‐performance liquid chromatography shows good agreement.
Studying the anti‐tyrosinase effect of Arbutus andrachne L. extracts
Authors: Issa R. A. , Afifi F. U. , Amro B. I.
Published: July 2008

Synopsis

Arbutus andrachne L. is widely distributed in Jordan. Tyrosinase is the key enzyme in the biosynthesis of melanin. This preliminary study was carried out to assess the possible anti‐tyrosinase activity of A. andrachne extracts. Arbutin, hydroquinone and kojic acid were selected as inhibitor standards. Five different extracts (chloroform, butanol, ethanol, methanol and water) were prepared from A. andrachne stems and their activities were compared with the selected tyrosinase inhibitors. IC50 was measured for both, standard and plant extracts. Among the different extracts, the methanolic extract exhibited the highest anttyrosinase activity with an IC50 value (1 mg mL−1). Furthermore, 9 mg A. andrachne methanolic extract showed 97.49% inhibition of tyrosinase activity. Arbutin, hydroquinone, β‐sitosterol and ursolic acid were identified in the different extracts of A. andrachne by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and isolated by preparative TLC from the methanolic and chloroform stem extracts, respectively.
Development of chitosan‐coated liposomes for sustained delivery of tamarind fruit pulp’s extract to the skin
Authors: Phetdee M. , Polnok A. , Viyoch J.
Published: July 2008

Synopsis

In this study, chitosan‐coated liposomes were developed. To entrap lyophilized tamarind extract containing alpha‐hydroxy acids (AHAs) together with tartaric acid, the reverse phase evaporation method was used to obtain well‐formed liposomes loaded with the extract. The highest entrapment efficiency of 68.3 ± 3.0% into the liposomes was obtained with liposomes consisting of phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol in a molar ratio of 2 : 1 after the extrusion process. The average particle size of the prepared liposomes was 158 ± 26 nm showing a negative zeta potential of −6 mV. For the preparation of the chitosan‐coated liposomes, two selected independent parameters were varied: chitosan concentrations of 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0% w/v and volumes of the chitosan solutions of 1, 2 and 3 mL, to study the effects of such parameters on the entrapment efficiency of the extract‐loaded liposomes. Variation in the volumes of the chitosan solution did not affect the entrapment efficiency of the liposomes. However, the entrapment efficiency of the AHAs in the chitosan‐coated liposomes significantly increased with increasing chitosan concentrations. The size of the chitosan‐coated liposomes was in the range of 200–300 nm with a positive zeta potential in the range of 6–29 mV. An in vitro release study using dialysis technique was performed to evaluate the release profile of the tartaric acid from the chitosan‐coated liposomes. The obtained results showed the effect of the chitosan‐coated liposomes on the lower release rate and on the amount of tartaric acid in comparison with that of the uncoated liposomes. The study in an in vitro skin cell model indicated that the developed system could enhance the potential of tamarind’s AHAs on the stimulation of human keratinocyte proliferation being two‐fold higher than the solution of the tamarind extract.
Analysis and quantification of parabens in cosmetic products by utilizing hollow fibre‐supported liquid membrane and high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection
Authors: Msagati T. A. M. , Barri T. , Larsson N. , Jönsson J. Å.
Published: July 2008

Synopsis

A simple and direct method based on hollow fibre‐supported liquid membrane (HFSLM) extraction and liquid chromatography equipped with a UV detector was developed for analysis and quantification of parabens in cosmetic products. The parabens analysed included methyl, ethyl, propyl, isobutyl and butyl paraben. The HFSLM extraction was carried out by employing di‐n‐hexyl ether as organic liquid that was immobilized in the hollow fibre membrane. The HFSLM extraction is simple, cheap, minimizes the use of solvents and uses disposable material. In an investigation of 11 paraben‐containing cosmetic products, the levels of parabens (sum of all parabens in a product) ranged from 0.43% to 0.79% (w/w) for skin care products, 0.07–0.44% for hair fixing gels and 0.30–0.52% for soap solutions. The levels of individual parabens in individual cosmetic products ranged between 0.03% and 0.42% w/w for skin care products, 0.07% and 0.26% w/w for hair fixing gels and between 0.11% and 0.34% w/w for soap solutions. Parabens were found in the highest concentrations in skin care products followed by soap solutions and the least amounts were found in hair fixing gels. Of the paraben‐containing products tested, all of them contained methyl paraben and about 90% contained propyl paraben in addition to methyl paraben. One product contained all the parabens analysed.
In vitro evaluation of sun protection factors of sunscreen agents using a novel UV spectrophotometric technique
Authors: Bleasel M. D. , Aldous S.
Published: July 2008

Synopsis

A method for the in vitro determination of low‐ and high‐value sun protection factors (SPF) of sunscreens using artificial substrates and a novel pseudo double beam (PDB) mode of operation of a standard double beam UV spectrophotometer is described. The method allows transmittance to be calculated from detector responses of reference and sample beams measured at different gain levels and facilitates the accurate quantification of low levels of electromagnetic radiation transmitted through highly absorbing samples. The spectrophotometer was modified to hold quartz diffusing plates on which a substrate [Transpore™ adhesive tape or human stratum corneum obtained from a skin surface biopsy (SSB)] and the sunscreens to be tested were applied. The PDB mode of operation increased the effective linear range of the detector response of the spectrophotometer by a factor of approximately 20000‐fold, enabling the in vitro SPF determination technique to be applied to both high and low SPF value sunscreens. Eight commercial sunscreens with known SPF values ranging from 4 to 77, previously determined by in vivo methods, were tested in vitro using both test substrates and correlations between the in vivo and in vitro values were determined. SPF values determined using the in vitro method correlated well with the known in vivo results (Transpore™ tape, R2 = 0.611; SSB, R2 = 0.7928). The in vitro SPF obtained for one of the tested products differed substantially from the cited in vivo SPF value. Independent in vitro and in vivo re‐evaluation of the SPF of this product matched the value predicted by the present method much more closely than the originally cited in vivo value. All determined SPFs were ordered correctly in comparison to in vivo ranking and the technique appeared to correctly identify a sunscreen that had a labelled SPF value that was significantly higher than its true SPF.
Empire and the Visual Representation of Nature, 1860–19601
Authors: Beinart William , Hughes Lotte
Published: July 2008

In this article, we explore some of the images transmitted about the landscapes and environments of the British empire, largely during the century after 1860. While our major focus is on British‐based representations, some reference is made to artistic work elsewhere that fed into the imperial visual store. As a number of scholars have argued, some visual materials familiarized British audiences with far‐flung conquered zones and naturalized their exploitation. However, these images were only one style of representation; there were many others and it is important to identify some of the complexity and variety of visual imaginations, developed in many different media. Settler and indigenous art and photography used images from nature to develop nationalist and indigenous reassertions. Images could transcend their intended purpose, and, as in the case of approaches to nature itself, there were contending voices. Jostling alongside images that celebrated exploitation and possession of colonized territories, there were others that championed nature or portrayed it sympathetically. Because of the power of visual media, these had a significant influence on conservationist thinking.
Preconception Health Status of Iraqi Women After Trade Embargo
Authors: Abbas Wafa Abdul Karim , Azar Najood G. , Haddad Linda G. , Umlauf Mary Grace
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Objectives: To describe the preconception health status of Iraqi women in 2001 following the trade embargo imposed on Iraq beginning in 1991 and only partially removed in 1996.

Design: A descriptive cross‐sectional prevalence study.

Sample: 500 Iraqi women at a premarital clinic in Baghdad in 2001.

Measurements: Women were surveyed for age, area of residence, menstrual history, household crowding, consanguinity, and a family history of congenital problems. Clinical findings regarding height, weight, and hemoglobin level were included in the data.

Results: Almost one third of the women were below the age of 20 and the majority were between 20 and 25 years of age. More than half of the women in this study had an intermediate‐level education or less and lived in very crowded housing. Most of the women were anemic and reported a delay in menarche, suggesting malnutrition. Most of the women were planning consanguineous unions even though many reported congenital conditions in their family of origin.

Conclusions: Young Iraqi women who endured embargo needed, and continue to need, aggressive preventive health services to recoup health gains lost during the 1990s and to address prevention of common congenital disorders.
A Fish Consumption Study of Anglers in an At‐Risk Community: A Community‐Based Participatory Approach to Risk Reduction
Authors: Derrick Corliss G. , Miller Jacqueline S. A. , Andrews Jeannette M.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Objective: To determine the effectiveness of a community‐partnered risk communication intervention tailored for subsistence anglers in a public housing community.

Design and sample: A one group, pretest, posttest design was used to test the effectiveness of the intervention in a sample (n=23, age range 18–75 years, 100% African American) of subsistence anglers residing in a public housing community in close proximity to a Superfund clean‐up site. Face‐to‐face surveys were conducted at baseline and 3 months post the intervention to assess changes in knowledge and behaviors.

Intervention: A socioculturally appropriate risk communication intervention was developed, implemented, and evaluated in the targeted community. The risk communication included an interactive power point presentation, visual demonstration by a role model, and distribution of low literacy written materials, followed by a booster mailing of materials 1 month past the initial intervention. Evaluation measures included survey instruments on knowledge and self‐reported fishing behaviors.

Results: Participants showed improved knowledge and behavior change related to trimming fish, consumption by pregnant women and children, and consumption of large fish.

Conclusions: The sociocultured tailored risk communication intervention demonstrated promising outcomes in this community and should be evaluated in a larger population of subsistence anglers.
Who Are the Pregnant Adolescents in the Poorest State Capital of Brazil?
Authors: Gomes Keila R. O. , Speizer Ilene S. , Gomes Francimar M. , Oliveira Delvianne D. C. , Moura Laís N. B.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Objective: This study determines which adolescent girls are becoming pregnant.

Design: Cross‐sectional study.

Sample: Pregnant or puerpera adolescents in Teresina, Brazil (278), aged 15–19 years.

Measurements: Comparisons were made between the older and younger age groups of the Teresina sample and between the socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of the Teresina sample and ever‐pregnant adolescents from the 1996 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) sample. Descriptive analyses and Pearson's chi‐square tests were performed.

Results: Compared with the 1996 DHS sample, there has been a social improvement manifested by a higher proportion attending school and a lower proportion of adolescent workers in the 2006 Teresina sample. In the 2006 sample, 60.2% of those attending school were below their grade for age level. The principal reason for school abandonment 10 years ago was marriage (24.4%) and that among the 2006 Teresina sample was pregnancy (44.9%). Girls who were 15–17 years old in the 2006 sample experienced menarche and sexual debut earlier than those who were 18–19 years old in the same sample.

Conclusions: Adolescent pregnancies are likely to have an unfavorable long‐term impact on adolescent mothers' lifestyle, even with some improvement since 1996. Effective programs for adolescent pregnancy prevention are needed to reduce the possibility of continuance of these trends for another 10 or more years in the future.
General Public's and Physicians' Perception of Health Risk Associated with Radon Exposure in the State of Azad Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Rafique Muhammad , Jabeen Shahida , Shahzad M. Ikram
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Objective: To conduct a radon awareness survey to examine the level of awareness and risk perception of indoor radon exposure among the general public, medical students, and physicians of the state of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, given that long‐term exposure to indoor radon increases lifetime risk of lung cancer and may pose a substantial threat to public health.

Design: Cross‐sectional survey. Sample: households by telephone (500), interviews with menial laborers (200), questionnaires to shopkeepers and government employees (1,000), undergraduates (200), social science graduates (1,500), science graduates (1,500), medical students (325), and physicians (100). Measures: familiarity with radioactivity and the nature and health hazards of radiation and radon. Analysis: Significance of data trends was measured using the Kruskal‐Wallis test.

Results: About 30% people (excluding medical students and physicians) were aware of radon, and about 6% had knowledgeable awareness of radon. About 80% of the medical students and physicians had heard about radon and about 30.5% of them had knowledgeable awareness about radon and its hazards.

Conclusion: The study suggested a positive relationship of awareness of radon and its hazards with the educational level of people.
Identification of Nurses' Competencies in Primary Health Care Through a Delphi Study in Southern Brazil
Authors: Witt Regina Rigatto , Almeida Maria Cecília Puntel de
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Objective: This investigation aimed to identify and analyze the general and specific competencies of nurses in the primary health care practice of Brazil.

Design: The Delphi Technique was used as the method of study.

Sample: 2 groups of participants were selected: One contained primary health care nurses (n=52) and the other specialists (n=57), including public health nurses and public or community health faculty.

Measurements: 3 questionnaires were developed for the study. The first asked participants to indicate general and specific competencies, which were compiled into a list for each group. A Likert scale of 1–5 was added to these 2 lists in the second and third questionnaires. A consensus criterion of 75% for score 4 or 5 was adopted.

Results: In the nurses' group, 17 general and 8 specific competencies reached the consensus criterion; 19 general and 9 specific competencies reached the criterion in the specialists' group. These competencies were classified into 10 domains: professional values, communication, teamwork, management, community‐oriented, health promotion, problem solving, health care, and education and basic public health sciences.

Conclusions: These competencies reflect Brazilian health policy and constitute a reference for health professional practice and education.
Association of Community Health Nursing Educators: Disaster Preparedness White Paper for Community/Public Health Nursing Educators
Authors: Kuntz Sandra W. , Frable Pamela , Qureshi Kristine , Strong Linda L.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
The Association of Community Health Nursing Educators (ACHNE) has developed a number of documents designed to delineate the scope and function of community/public health nursing educators, researchers, and practitioners. In response to societal issues, increased emphasis on disaster preparedness in nursing and public health, and requests from partner organizations to contribute to curriculum development endeavors regarding disaster preparedness, the ACHNE Disaster Preparedness Task Force was appointed in spring 2007 for the purpose of developing this document. Task Force members developed a draft of the document in summer and fall 2007, input was solicited and received from ACHNE members in fall 2007, and the document was approved and published in January 2008. The members of ACHNE extend their appreciation to the members of the Emergency Preparedness Task Force for their efforts: Pam Frable, N.D., R.N.; Sandra Kuntz, Ph.D., C.N.S.‐B.C. (Chair); Kristine Qureshi, D.N.Sc., C.E.N., R.N.; Linda Strong, Ed.D., R.N. This white paper is aimed at meeting the needs of community/public health nursing educators and clarifying issues for the nursing and public health communities. ACHNE is committed to promotion of the public's health through ensuring leadership and excellence in community and public health nursing education, research, and practice.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Interpersonal Relationship Inventory for Early Adolescents
Authors: Yarcheski Adela , Mahon Noreen E. , Yarcheski Thomas J. , Hanks Michele M.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
The purposes of this methodological study were to factor analyze the short form of the Tilden Interpersonal Relationship Inventory (IPRI) for early adolescents, and to assess construct validity of the social support and conflict subscales with early adolescents. The sample consisted of 147 early adolescents, aged 12–14, who completed instrument packets in classrooms in a suburban middle school. Data obtained on the IPRI were subjected to principal components factor analysis with Varimax rotation. The two factors that emerged are consistent with the theories underlying the instrument. Factor I was social support, and had a coefficient α reliability of .90. Factor II was conflict, and had a coefficient α reliability of .86. Construct validity was assessed by testing hypotheses derived from theoretical propositions linking support or conflict to general humor, self‐esteem, and symptom patterns; the results of the hypotheses were statistically significant and in the predicted direction. The findings indicate that the social support and conflict subscales of the IPRI have evidence of reliability and validity for early adolescents.
A Review of the Cluster Survey Sampling Method in Humanitarian Emergencies
Authors: Morris Shaun K. , Nguyen Claire K.
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT
Obtaining quality data in a timely manner from humanitarian emergencies is inherently difficult. Conditions of war, famine, population displacement, and other humanitarian disasters, cause limitations in the ability to widely survey. These limitations hold the potential to introduce fatal biases into study results. The cluster sample method is the most frequently used technique to draw a representative sample in these types of scenarios. A recent study utilizing the cluster sample method to estimate the number of excess deaths due to the invasion of Iraq has generated much controversy and confusion about this sampling technique. Although subject to certain intrinsic limitations, cluster sampling allows researchers to utilize statistical methods to draw inferences regarding entire populations when data gathering would otherwise be impossible.
Estrogen–Growth Factor Interactions and Their Contributions to Neurological Disorders
Authors: Scharfman Helen E. , MacLusky Neil J.
Published: July 2008

Estrogen has diverse and powerful effects in the brain, including actions on neurons, glia, and the vasculature. It is not surprising, therefore, that there are many changes in the female brain as serum estradiol levels rise and fall during the normal ovarian cycle. At times of life when estradiol levels change dramatically, such as puberty, postpartum, or menopause, there also are dramatic changes in the central nervous system. Changes that occur because of fluctuations in serum estrogen levels are potentially relevant to neurological disorders because symptoms often vary with the time of the ovarian cycle. Moreover, neurological disorders (eg, seizures and migraine) often increase in frequency in women when estradiol levels change. In this review, the contribution of 2 growth factors targeted by estrogen, the neurotrophin brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), will be discussed. Estrogen‐sensitive response elements are present on the genes for both BDNF and VEGF, and they are potent modulators of neuronal, glial, and vascular function, making them logical candidates to mediate the multitude of effects of estrogen. In addition, BDNF induces neuropeptide Y, which has diverse actions that are relevant to estrogen action and to the same neurological disorders.
The Influence of Ceramic Surface Treatments on the Micro‐shear Bond Strength of Composite Resin to IPS Empress 2
Authors: Panah Faride Gerami , Rezai Sosan Mir Mohammad , Ahmadian Leila
Published: July 2008

Purpose: An increasing demand for esthetic restorations has resulted in the development of new ceramic systems, but fracture of veneering ceramics still remains the primary cause of failure. Porcelain repair frequently involves replacement with composite resin, but the bond strength between composite resin and all‐ceramic coping materials has not been studied extensively. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of different ceramic surface treatments on the micro‐shear bond strength of composite resin to IPS Empress 2 coping material.

Materials and Methods: Sixteen 7 × 7 × 1 mm3 lithia disilicate‐based core ceramic plates were fabricated using the lost wax technique. The plates were divided into eight groups, and eight different surface treatments were performed: (1) no treatment (NT); (2) airborne‐particle abrasion with 50‐μm alumina particles (Al); (3) acid etching with 9.6% hydrofluoric acid for 1 min (HF); (4) silane coating (S); (5) AlHF; (6) AlS; (7) HFS; and (8) AlHFS. Then, ten composite resin cylinders (0.8‐mm diameter × 0.5‐mm height) were light‐polymerized onto the ceramic plates in each group. Each specimen was subjected to a shear load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min until fracture occurred. The fracture sites were examined with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to determine the location of failure during debonding and to examine the surface treatment effects. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and multiple comparison (Dunnet T3) tests were used for statistical analysis of data.

Results: The mean micro‐shear bond strength values (SD) in MPa were—NT: 4.10 (3.06), Al: 7.56 (4.11), HF: 14.04 (2.60), S: 14.58 (2.14), AlHF: 15.56 (3.36), AlS: 23.02 (4.17), HFS: 24.7 (4.43), AlHFS: 26.0 (3.71). ANOVA indicated the influence of surface treatment was significant (p < 0.0001). SEM analysis did not reveal entirely cohesive failure in any composite or ceramic.

Conclusion: The micro‐shear bond strength of a composite resin to IPS Empress 2 was significantly different depending on the surface treatment method. Among the investigated methods, silane coating after airborne‐particle abrasion and etching was the most effective surface treatment in terms of bond strength increase.
Heart Rate Variability in Middle‐Aged Men with New‐Onset Hypertension
Authors: Pavithran Purushothaman , Madanmohan, M.D.  , Mithun Raj , Jomal Mathew , Nandeesha Hanumanthappa
Published: July 2008

Background: It has been well established that hypertension is associated with autonomic dysregulation. Studies investigating HRV have established that hypertension is characterized by sympathetic overactivity and or attenuation of parasympathetic modulation of the heart.

Methods: We examined short‐term heart rate variability (HRV) as well as conventional indices of cardiovascular autonomic function including heart rate variation during deep breathing (HRVdb), 30: 15 ratio, pressor response to quiet standing and isometric handgrip in 35 male subjects (39 ± 7 year, mean ± SD) with new‐onset hypertension (resting BP 155 ± 17/101 ± 8 mm Hg) and 17 age‐matched normotensive men (resting BP: 111 ± 7/71 ± 5 mmHg).

Results: HRVdb was significantly lower in hypertensives (21 ± 8) compared to normotensives (mean age 36 ± 7, P = 0.03). Differences in mean RR were insignificant, logarithm of high‐frequency (HF) spectral power of RR intervals was significantly lower in hypertensives compared to normotensives in the supine position (P = 0.02).

Conclusions: Our data suggest that new‐onset hypertension is characterized by diminished short‐term HRV, possibly due to an increase in cardiovascular sympathovagal balance.
Abnormal Heart Rate Variability and Subtle Atrial Arrhythmia in Patients with Familial Amyloidotic Polyneuropathy
Authors: Wiklund Urban , Hörnsten Rolf , Karlsson Marcus , Suhr Ole B. , Jensen Steen M.
Published: July 2008

Background: Cardiac autonomic dysfunction is a common complication of familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP), but cardiac arrhythmia and conduction disturbances are also common. We analyzed heart rate variability (HRV) in FAP patients using power spectrum analysis and Poincaré plot analysis.

Methods: HRV was analyzed in 24‐hour ECG recordings (Holter) in 41 FAP patients.

Results: Power spectrum analysis showed reduced HRV in 21 FAP patients. A novel finding was that nine other patients with abnormal Poincaré plots had either very high power in the high‐frequency region (0.15–0.50 Hz) or broadband HRV power spectra without any distinctive spectral peaks. Reanalysis of their ECGs showed a previously undetected intermittent atrial arrhythmia.

Conclusions: Subtle arrhythmias may be difficult to detect during analyses of Holter recordings. Patients with intermittent atrial arrhythmia were identified by broadband HRV spectra and abnormal Poincaré plots. High high‐frequency power in HRV and irregular heart rate patterns may indicate the presence of subtle atrial arrhythmia. Consequently, such patients should be excluded from studies of cardiac autonomic modulation.