bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased 90-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase (Rsk) activity is protective against mutant huntingtin toxicity
Authors: Xifró Xavier , Anglada-Huguet Marta , Rué Laura , Saavedra Ana , Pérez-Navarro Esther , Alberch Jordi
Published: November 2011

Background

The 90-kDa ribosomal S6 kinase (Rsk) family is involved in cell survival. Rsk activation is regulated by sequential phosphorylations controlled by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 and 3-phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1 (PDK1). Altered ERK1/2 and PDK1 phosphorylation have been described in Huntington's disease (HD), characterized by the expression of mutant huntingtin (mhtt) and striatal degeneration. However, the role of Rsk in this neurodegenerative disease remains unknown. Here, we analyzed the protein levels, activity and role of Rsk in in vivo and in vitro HD models.

Results

We observed increased protein levels of Rsk1 and Rsk2 in the striatum of HdhQ111/Q111 and R6/1 mice, STHdhQ111/Q111 cells and striatal cells transfected with full-length mhtt. Analysis of the phosphorylation of Rsk in Hdh mice and STHdh cells showed reduced levels of phospho Ser-380 (dependent on ERK1/2), whereas phosphorylation at Ser-221 (dependent on PDK1) was increased. Moreover, we found that elevated Rsk activity in STHdhQ111/Q111 cells was mainly due to PDK1 activity, as assessed by transfection with Rsk mutant constructs. The increase of Rsk in STHdhQ111/Q111 cells occurred in the cytosol and in the nucleus, which results in enhanced phosphorylation of both cytosolic and nuclear Rsk targets. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of Rsk, knock-down and overexpression experiments indicated that Rsk activity exerts a protective effect against mhtt-induced cell death in STHdhQ7/Q7 cells transfected with mhtt.

Conclusion

The increase of Rsk levels and activity would act as a compensatory mechanism with capacity to prevent mhtt-mediated cell death. We propose Rsk as a good target for neuroprotective therapies in HD.
Evaluating the potential of the sterile insect technique for malaria control: relative fitness and mating compatibility between laboratory colonized and a wild population of Anopheles arabiensis from the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Munhenga Givemore , Brooke Basil D , Chirwa Tobias F , Hunt Richard H , Coetzee Maureen , Govender Danny , Koekemoer Lizette L
Published: November 2011

Background

The successful suppression of a target insect population using the sterile insect technique (SIT) partly depends on the premise that the laboratory insects used for mass rearing are genetically compatible with the target population, that the mating competitiveness of laboratory reared males is at least comparable to that of their wild counterparts, and that mass rearing and sterilization processes do not in themselves compromise male fitness to a degree that precludes them from successfully competing for mates in the wild. This study investigated the fitness and sexual cross-compatibility between samples of field collected and laboratory reared An. arabiensis under laboratory conditions.

Results

The physiological and reproductive fitness of the MALPAN laboratory strain is not substantially modified with respect to the field population at Malahlapanga. Further, a high degree of mating compatibility between MALPAN and the Malahlapanga population was established based on cross-mating experiments. Lastly, the morphological characteristics of hybrid ovarian polytene chromosomes further support the contention that the MALPAN laboratory colony and the An. arabiensis population at Malahlapanga are genetically homogenous and therefore compatible.

Conclusions

It is concluded that the presence of a perennial and isolated population of An. arabiensis at Malahlapanga presents a unique opportunity for assessing the feasibility of SIT as a malaria vector control option. The MALPAN laboratory colony has retained sufficient enough measures of reproductive and physiological fitness to present as a suitable candidate for male sterilization, mass rearing and subsequent mass release of sterile males at Malahlapanga in order to further assess the feasibility of SIT in a field setting.
Team behaviors in emergency care: a qualitative study using behavior analysis of what makes team work
Authors: Mazzocato Pamela , Hvitfeldt Forsberg Helena , von Thiele Schwarz Ulrica
Published: November 2011

Objective

Teamwork has been suggested as a promising approach to improving care processes in emergency departments (ED). However, for teamwork to yield expected results, implementation must involve behavior changes. The aim of this study is to use behavior analysis to qualitatively examine how teamwork plays out in practice and to understand eventual discrepancies between planned and actual behaviors.

Methods

The study was set in a Swedish university hospital ED during the initial phase of implementation of teamwork. The intervention focused on changing the environment and redesigning the work process to enable teamwork. Each team was responsible for entire care episodes, i.e. from patient arrival to discharge from the ED. Data was collected through 3 days of observations structured around an observation scheme. Behavior analysis was used to pinpoint key teamwork behaviors for consistent implementation of teamwork and to analyze the contingencies that decreased or increased the likelihood of these behaviors.

Results

We found a great discrepancy between the planned and the observed teamwork processes. 60% of the 44 team patients observed were handled solely by the appointed team members. Only 36% of the observed patient care processes started according to the description in the planned teamwork process, that is, with taking patient history together. Beside this behavior, meeting in a defined team room and communicating with team members were shown to be essential for the consistent implementation of teamwork. Factors that decreased the likelihood of these key behaviors included waiting for other team members or having trouble locating each other. Getting work done without delay and having an overview of the patient care process increased team behaviors. Moreover, explicit instructions on when team members should interact and communicate increased adherence to the planned process.

Conclusions

This study illustrates how behavior analysis can be used to understand discrepancies between planned and observed behaviors. By examining the contextual conditions that may influence behaviors, improvements in implementation strategies can be suggested. Thereby, the adherence to a planned intervention can be improved, and/or revisions of the intervention be suggested.
Duration of antibiotic therapy for bacteremia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Havey Thomas C , Fowler Robert A , Daneman Nick
Published: November 2011

Introduction

The optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for bloodstream infections is unknown. Shorter durations of therapy have been demonstrated to be as effective as longer durations for many common infections; similar findings in bacteremia could enable hospitals to reduce antibiotic utilization, adverse events, resistance and costs.

Methods

A search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE and COCHRANE databases was conducted for the years 1947-2010. Controlled trials were identified that randomized patients to shorter versus longer durations of treatment for bacteremia, or the infectious foci most commonly causing bacteremia in critically ill patients (catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI), intra-abdominal infections, pneumonia, pyelonephritis and skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTI)).

Results

Twenty-four eligible trials were identified, including one trial focusing exclusively on bacteremia, zero in catheter related bloodstream infection, three in intra-abdominal infection, six in pyelonephritis, thirteen in pneumonia and one in skin and soft tissue infection. Thirteen studies reported on 227 patients with bacteremia allocated to 'shorter' or 'longer' durations of treatment. Outcome data were available for 155 bacteremic patients: neonatal bacteremia (n = 66); intra-abdominal infection (40); pyelonephritis (9); and pneumonia (40). Among bacteremic patients receiving shorter (5-7 days) versus longer (7-21 days) antibiotic therapy, no significant difference was detected with respect to rates of clinical cure (45/52 versus 47/49, risk ratio 0.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.77-1.01), microbiologic cure (28/28 versus 30/32, risk ratio 1.05, 95% CI 0.91-1.21), and survival (15/17 versus 26/29, risk ratio 0.97, 95% CI 0.76-1.23).

Conclusions

No significant differences in clinical cure, microbiologic cure and survival were detected among bacteremic patients receiving shorter versus longer duration antibiotic therapy. An adequately powered randomized trial of bacteremic patients is needed to confirm these findings.
Discovery of active enhancers through bidirectional expression of short transcripts
Authors: Melgar Michael F , Collins Francis S , Sethupathy Praveen
Published: November 2011

Background

Long-range regulatory elements, such as enhancers, exert substantial control over tissue-specific gene expression patterns. Genome-wide discovery of functional enhancers in different cell types is important for our understanding of genome function as well as human disease etiology.

Results

In this study, we developed an in silico approach to model the previously reported phenomenon of transcriptional pausing, accompanied by divergent transcription, at active promoters. We then used this model for large-scale prediction of non-promoter-associated bidirectional expression of short transcripts. Our predictions were significantly enriched for DNase hypersensitive sites, histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac), and other chromatin marks associated with active rather than poised or repressed enhancers. We also detected modest bidirectional expression at binding sites of the CCCTC-factor (CTCF) genome-wide, particularly those that overlap H3K27ac.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the signature of bidirectional expression of short transcripts, learned from promoter-proximal transcriptional pausing, can be used to predict active long-range regulatory elements genome-wide, likely due in part to specific association of RNA polymerase with enhancer regions.
Documentation and Discussion of Preferences for Care Among Patients With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Ahluwalia Sangeeta C. , Chuang Fukai L. , Antonio Anna Liza M. , Malin Jennifer L. , Lorenz Karl A. , Walling Anne M.
Published: November 2011

Providers may need help identifying patients for appropriate palliative care services earlier in their trajectory.
Palliative Care in the Outpatient Oncology Setting: Evaluation of a Practical Set of Referral Criteria
Authors: Glare Paul A. , Semple Deborah , Stabler Stacy M. , Saltz Leonard B.
Published: November 2011

The authors evaluated the feasibility of screening for palliative care needs in outpatients attending one GI oncology practice specializing in colorectal cancer and neuroendocrine tumors.
Heme oxygenase-1 induction protects the heart and modulates cellular and extracellular remodelling after myocardial infarction in rats
Authors: Lakkisto Päivi , Siren Juha-Matti , Kytö Ville , Forsten Hanna , Laine Mika , Pulkki Kari , Tikkanen Ilkka
Published: November 2011

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a cytoprotective enzyme, which regulates cell proliferation and has potential antifibrogenic properties. In the present study, we investigated the effects of pre-emptive HO-1 induction by cobalt protoporphyrin IX on the healing of myocardial infarction in rats. The proliferation and repair of cardiac cells was assessed by immunostaining of Ki67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling. Compared with control hearts, HO-1 induction reduced apoptosis and increased proliferation and repair of cardiomyocytes in the infarct border area during the first few days after infarction. Concomitantly, HO-1 decreased accumulation and proliferation of fibroblasts, and down-regulated procollagen type I expression in the infarct area. Furthermore, HO-1 increased expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine, transforming growth factor- β1, suggesting that the cardioprotective effect of HO-1 in the early phase of infarct healing may result partly from the suppression of the inflammatory response. In the remote myocardium, HO-1 inhibited both proliferation and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, attenuated heart failure-induced increase in the repair of cardiomyocytes and decreased perivascular fibrosis, thereby potentially alleviating adverse ventricular remodelling. The cardioprotective effects of HO-1 in the late phase of infarct healing may be mediated partly by down-regulation of the profibrotic connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), as HO-1 decreased CTGF expression at week 4. In conclusion, our findings suggest an important role for HO-1 in maintaining cellular homeostasis in the postinfarction heart. Modulation of the HO-1 pathway may provide a new therapeutic approach to enhance the recovery of myocardial infarction and protect against pathological myocardial changes.
Evaluation of two devices for point-of-care testing of haemoglobin in neonatal pigs
Authors: Kutter Annette P N , Mauch Jacqueline Y , Riond Barbara , Martin-Jurado Olga , Spielmann Nelly , Weiss Markus , Bettschart-Wolfensberger Regula
Published: November 2011

In veterinary medicine, point-of-care testing (POCT) techniques have become popular, since they provide immediate results and only small amounts of blood are needed. However, their accuracy is controversial. Pigs are often used for research purposes and accurate measurement of haemoglobin (Hb) is important during invasive procedures. The aim of this study was to evaluate two different Hb POCT devices in neonatal pigs. A prospective study with 57 pigs of 3–6 weeks of age, weighing 4.1–6.2 kg (median 5.1 kg) was performed. Fifty-seven blood samples were analysed for Hb using a conductivity-based and a photometrical POCT device and compared with a photometrical reference method. Statistical analysis was performed with Bland–Altman analysis, Spearman correlation and Passing–Bablok regression analysis. Hb values ranged from 32 to 108 g/L (median 80 g/L) using the reference method. The bias of the photometrical method (HemoCue®) to the reference method was −1 g/L, with limits of agreement (LOA) of −7 to 6 g/L. The conductivity-based method (i-STAT®) had a bias of −15 g/L with LOA from −24 to −6 g/L. There was a significant association between protein values and the bias of i-STAT versus CellDyn ( r2 = 0.27, P < 0.05) but not with the bias of HemoCue versus CellDyn ( r2 = 0.001, P = 0.79). The lower the protein values were, the lower the Hb values were measured by the i-STAT. The conductivity-based measurement of Hb constantly underestimated Hb values, whereas the photometrical method demonstrated a better accuracy and is therefore more reliable for on-site measurement of Hb in pigs.
Projected Perspective Reformulations with Applications in Design Problems
Authors: Frangioni Antonio , Gentile Claudio , Grande Enrico , Pacifici Andrea
Published: November 2011

The perspective relaxation (PR) is a general approach for constructing tight approximations to mixed-integer nonlinear programs (MINLP) with semicontinuous variables. The PR of a MINLP can be formulated either as a mixed-integer second-order cone program (MI-SOCP), provided that the original objective function is SOCP-representable, or as a semi-infinite MINLP. In this paper, we show that under some further assumptions (rather restrictive, but satisfied in several practical applications), the PR of a mixed-integer quadratic program (MIQP) can also be reformulated as a piecewise-quadratic program (QP), ultimately yielding a QP relaxation of roughly the same size of the standard continuous relaxation. Furthermore, if the original problem has some exploitable structure, then this structure is typically preserved in the reformulation, thus allowing the construction of specialized approaches for solving the PR. We report on implementing these ideas on two MIQPs with appropriate structure: a sensor placement problem and a quadratic-cost (single-commodity) network design problem.
Acquisition of Project-Specific Assets with Bayesian Updating
Authors: Kwon H. Dharma , Lippman Steven A.
Published: November 2011

We study the impact of learning on the optimal policy and the time-to-decision in an infinite-horizon Bayesian sequential decision model with two irreversible alternatives: exit and expansion. In our model, a firm undertakes a small-scale pilot project to learn, via Bayesian updating, about the project's profitability, which is known to be in one of two possible states. The firm continuously observes the project's cumulative profit, but the true state of the profitability is not immediately revealed because of the inherent noise in the profit stream. The firm bases its exit or expansion decision on the posterior probability distribution of the profitability. The optimal policy is characterized by a pair of thresholds for the posterior probability. We find that the time-to-decision does not necessarily have a monotonic relation with the arrival rate of new information.
Patrolling Games
Authors: Alpern Steve , Morton Alec , Papadaki Katerina
Published: November 2011

A key operational problem for those charged with the security of vulnerable facilities (such as airports or art galleries) is the scheduling and deployment of patrols. Motivated by the problem of optimizing randomized, and thus unpredictable, patrols, we present a class of patrolling games. The facility to be patrolled can be thought of as a network or graph Q of interconnected nodes (e.g., rooms, terminals), and the Attacker can choose to attack any node of Q within a given time T. He requires m consecutive periods there, uninterrupted by the Patroller, to commit his nefarious act (and win). The Patroller can follow any path on the graph. Thus, the patrolling game is a win-lose game, where the Value is the probability that the Patroller successfully intercepts an attack, given best play on both sides. We determine analytically either the Value of the game, or bounds on the Value, for various classes of graphs, and we discuss possible extensions and generalizations.
Optimisation of whole blood and plasma manganese assay by ICP-MS without use of a collision cell
Authors: Richardson Claire , Roberts Edward , Nelms Simon , Roberts Norman B.
Published: November 2011

Manganese (Mn) toxicity has been reported in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition. To avoid unnecessary exposure it is recommended by NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) that blood Mn concentrations are monitored. The aim of the study was to develop a method using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the reliable determination of Mn in plasma and whole blood, as indices of acute and chronic exposure.

Whole blood and plasma samples were prepared by appropriate dilution (diluent containing 0.005% Triton X-100, 0.2% propan-2-ol, 0.2% butan-1-ol and 1% nitric acid) addition of an internal standard gallium, followed by centrifugation to remove cell debris. Thermo Fisher Scientific ExCell and X Series ICP-MS instruments were used to define and correct for polyatomic interference on Mn assay.

Mn was quantified at mass 55 using aqueous calibration and the polyatomic interference from FeH was successfully eliminated by modified (Xt) skimmer cones but not with the collision cell (collision gas 7% H

A method has been developed using ICP-MS for the analysis of whole blood and plasma Mn incorporating a novel method of eliminating interference by utilizing the different geometries of the Xt interface cones. The procedure is simple and robust with good precision and recovery over a wide dynamic range.
Pharmacodynamic responses of plasma and tissue C-type natriuretic peptide to GH: correlation with linear growth in GH-deficient rats
Authors: Prickett T C R , Bothwell J C , Yandle T G , Richards A M , Espiner E A
Published: November 2011

Studies from genetic modification and spontaneous mutations show that C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) signalling plays an essential part in postnatal endochondral growth, but measurement of CNP proteins and changes in their abundance in tissues and plasma during normal growth has not been reported. Using rodent pups with GH deficiency, we now describe the pharmacodynamic response of CNP and rat amino-terminal proCNP (NTproCNP) in plasma and tissues, and relate these to changes in linear growth (nose–tail length, tibial length and tibial growth plate width) during the course of 1 week of GH or saline (control) administration. Compared with saline, significant increases in plasma and tissue CNP forms were observed after 24 h in GH-treated pups and before any detectable change in linear growth. Whereas CNP abundance was increased in most tissues (muscle, heart and liver) by GH, enrichment was the greatest in extracts from growth plates and kidney. Plasma and tissue concentrations in GH-treated pups were sustained or further increased at 1 week when strong positive associations were found between plasma NTproCNP and linear growth or tissue concentrations. High content of NTproCNP in kidney tissue strongly correlated with plasma concentrations, which is consistent with previous data showing renal extraction of the peptide. In showing a prompt and significant increase in CNP in tissues driving normal endochondral growth, these findings provide further rationale for CNP agonists in the treatment of growth disorders resistant to current therapies and support the use of CNP concentrations as biomarkers of linear growth.
Weed Management and Cotton Yield under Two Row Spacings in Conventional and Conservation Tillage Systems Utilizing Conventional, Glufosinate-, and Glyphosate-based Weed Management Systems
Authors: Aulakh J. S. , Price A. J. , Balkcom K. S.
Published: November 2011

A field experiment was conducted during three cropping seasons to compare weed control and cotton yield provided by conventional (CV), glufosinate-resistant (LL), and glyphosate-resistant (RR) weed management systems under standard (102 cm) and narrow (38 cm) row spacing grown in conventional and conservation tillage systems. The conventional tillage and/or CV cotton received a PRE application of pendimethalin. The CV, LL, and RR cotton varieties received two POST applications of pyrithiobac, glufosinate, and glyphosate, respectively, at two- and four-leaf cotton growth stages. A final (LAYBY) application of trifloxysulfuron was applied to 38-cm row cotton while a LAYBY POST-directed spray of prometryn plus MSMA was used in 102-cm row cotton. The LL and RR weed management systems controlled at least 97% of large crabgrass, Palmer amaranth, sicklepod, and smallflower morningglory, while the CV system controlled 89, 73, and 87 to 98% of large crabgrass, smallflower morningglory, and Palmer amaranth, respectively. Sicklepod control increased from 85% in 102-cm rows to 95% in 38-cm rows in the CV herbicide system. Yellow nutsedge and pitted morningglory control exceeded 98% and was not affected by tillage, row spacing, or weed management system. Cotton yield was not affected by row spacing any year, by tillage in 2005, or by weed management system in 2004 and 2005. In 2006, yield in the RR weed management system was 27 and 24% higher than LL and CV weed management systems, respectively. In 2004, yield of conventional tillage cotton was 18% higher than conservation tillage cotton, but in 2006 the yield in conservation tillage was 12% higher than conventional tillage.
Differential Response of Liverwort (Marchantia polymorpha) Tissue to POST-Applied Quinoclamine
Authors: Altland James E. , Wehtje Glenn , Sibley Jeff , Miller Michael E. , Gilliam Charles H. , Krause Charles
Published: November 2011

Quinoclamine is used in Europe, and was under evaluation in the Unites States for the control of liverwort in nursery crops. Liverwort is a nonvascular, chlorophyll-containing plant that can be problematic in greenhouse and nursery crops. POST-applied quinoclamine controls liverwort. However, liverwort structures vary in their sensitivity to POST-applied quinoclamine. Specifically, archegonial receptacles (female) are much more tolerant of quinoclamine than either antheridial receptacles (male) or thalli (leaflike structures). A series of studies were conducted to, first, document the degree of differential sensitivity between tissues to quinoclamine, and second, to determine the basis of this differential sensitivity. The dose that results in 50% of the population being controlled (I50) of antheridial receptacles and juvenile thalli were estimated to be 1.60 and 1.27 kg·ha−1, respectively. TheI50of archegonial receptacles could not be estimated, but exceeded 10.45 kg·ha−1. Chlorophyll content varied between liverwort tissues, but the content did not correlate to quinoclamine sensitivity. Absorption of14C after application of radiolabeled quinoclamine was less in archegonial receptacles than in either antheridial receptacles or thalli. Scanning electron microscopy of the surface of the liverwort tissues revealed that archegonial receptacles had smaller pores (equivalent to stomata in higher plants) than either antheridial receptacles or thalli. The tolerance of archegonial receptacles to quinoclamine can be partially, but not exclusively, attributed to reduced absorption. This reduced absorption may be attributed to the limited pore size and less total pore area of the archegonial receptacles.
Application Timing Affects Bermudagrass Suppression with Mixtures of Fluazifop and Triclopyr
Authors: Brosnan J. T. , Breeden G. K. , Elmore M. T. , Zidek J. M.
Published: November 2011

Bermudagrass is a troublesome weed of zoysiagrass golf-course fairways. Field research was conducted in 2009 and 2010 evaluating bermudagrass suppression with applications of fluazifop plus triclopyr at various timings. Three rates of fluazifop (0.10, 0.21, and 0.32 kg ai ha−1) were applied with triclopyr (1.12 kg ae ha−1) once six thresholds of growing-degree-day accumulation (GDD10C) had been reached: 200, 450, 825, 1,275, 1,775, and 2,250 GDD10C. Yearly accumulated GDD10C values were calculated with a base temperature of 10 C beginning on 1 January. Applications at 200 and 2,250 GDD10C suppressed bermudagrass ≥ 90% at 5 WAT each year. Increased rates of fluazifop did not provide additional bermudagrass suppression at these timings. Cooling accumulation models may be needed to time fall applications, as the 1,775 GDD10C timing in 2009 provided similar bermudagrass suppression to the 2,250 GDD10C timing in 2010. Late-spring and midsummer applications at 450 GDD10C, 825 GDD10C, and 1,275 GDD10C only suppressed bermudagrass 4 to 16% at 6 wk after treatment (WAT) in 2009 and 0 to 57% at 6 WAT in 2010. Zoysiagrass injury measured < 25% for all timings and decreased to 0 to 7% by 5 WAT each year. Future studies should evaluate bermudagrass suppression with other herbicides with the use of growing-degree-day and cooling accumulation models.
Sodium Chloride Efficacy for Smooth Crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum) Control and Safety to Common Bermudagrass and Seashore Paspalum
Authors: McCullough Patrick E. , Raymer Paul L.
Published: November 2011

Seashore paspalum has high salinity tolerance, suggesting sodium chloride might have potential as a selective grassy weed herbicide. The objective of this research was to investigate sodium chloride rate and application timing for smooth crabgrass control and seashore paspalum and common bermudagrass injury. Five rates of sodium chloride (244, 488, 976, 1,952, or 3,904 kg ha−1) were compared with quinclorac at 0.84 kg ai ha−1 for controlling multileaf or multitiller smooth crabgrass. Sodium chloride at ≥ 976 kg ha−1 provided excellent control (90 to 100%) of multitiller smooth crabgrass from 7 to 28 d after treatment, but ≥ 1,952 kg ha−1 was required to achieve excellent control of multileaf populations. Furthermore, 976 kg ha−1 of sodium chloride applied to multitiller smooth crabgrass caused minimal seashore paspalum injury (0 to 6%), comparable to quinclorac, but was more injurious when applied earlier in the spring for multileaf smooth crabgrass control. Common bermudagrass injury increased with sodium chloride rate and was > 20% from sodium chloride at 488 and 976 kg ha−1 at both application timings. Overall, sodium chloride was most effective and safe on seashore paspalum when applied for smooth crabgrass control at the multitiller growth stage, whereas bermudagrass injury might be excessive at minimum rates required for control.
Resistance to Acetolactate Synthase and Acetyl Co-A Carboxylase Inhibitors in North Carolina Italian Ryegrass (Lolium perenne)
Authors: Chandi Aman , York Alan C. , Jordan David L. , Beam Josh B.
Published: November 2011

Diclofop-resistant Italian ryegrass is widespread in southwestern North Carolina, and growers have resorted to using acetolactate synthase (ALS) inhibitors such as mesosulfuron and pyroxsulam to control this weed in wheat. In the spring of 2007, mesosulfuron failed to control Italian ryegrass in several wheat fields. Seed were collected from six fields in two counties and greenhouse studies were conducted to determine response to mesosulfuron and the acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitors diclofop and pinoxaden. All populations were resistant to diclofop and cross-resistant to pinoxaden. Five of the six populations were resistant to diclofop, pinoxaden, and mesosulfuron. An additional study with two biotypes confirmed cross-resistance to the ALS inhibitors imazamox, mesosulfuron, and pyroxsulam. Resistance to mesosulfuron was heritable.
Neonatal Thrombosis
Authors: Clark Roberta
Published: November 2011

NEONATAL VASCULAR THROMBOSIS is rare; however, it is emerging as a more frequent problem in tertiary neonatal care.1Both the incidence and severity of thromboembolic events are increasing in children, with newborns being the largest group affected.2A 1995 Canadian study estimated that the incidence of clinically diagnosed cases of neonatal thrombosis was 2.4 per 1,000 admissions.3A two-year study published in Germany in 1997 reported 5.1 per 100,000 births.4The first study reported that thrombotic disease diagnosed in neonates is most commonly associated with the presence of an indwelling intravascular catheter. The second study reported that most venous thromboses were diagnosed in the second week of life in premature or mature infants in the upper venous system and were directly associated with indwelling central catheters. Although spontaneous thrombosis does occur, it is usually confined to the renal veins.3
What’s the Latest on Carbon Dioxide Monitoring?
Authors: Thomas Patricia
Published: November 2011

CARBON DIOXIDE (CO2) monitoring is a mainstay of evaluation for any patient with a respiratory problem. Although CO2 monitoring is not a new modality, it is continuously changing as new methods are developed. The gold standard of carbon dioxide monitoring is measurement of PCO2 obtained as part of the arterial blood gas. Although this is the most accurate way to monitor the amount of CO2 in the blood, it is also the most costly to the neonate because it requires a blood sample. Neonatal care practitioners strive to minimize blood losses in order to reduce the need for blood transfusions. In addition, arterial blood gas monitoring is not always practical, because the time and equipment to obtain and run a sample are not always available, particularly in the delivery room or during transport. Another drawback to arterial blood gas monitoring is that it requires either the placement of a central line or an arterial puncture. As caregivers concerned with pain in the neonate, we strive to minimize the number of painful procedures our patients experience. Central lines may increase the risk of infections, a constant concern with the emergence of resistant organisms in our nurseries. For these reasons, noninvasive forms of carbon dioxide monitoring are on the forefront of neonatal care.
Comfort Care of Neonates at the End of Life
Authors: Stringer Marilyn , Shaw Valerie , Savani Rashmin
Published: November 2011

Most neonatal intensive care units have approaches to manage patients at the end of their lives. Published guidelines to help direct practitioners are lacking, and these management approaches, commonly referred to ascomfort care,are often based on tradition. Recently, our neonatal staff experienced a unique situation that involved giving comfort care to a previable neonate who lived much longer than anticipated. Our staff identified the need for an evidence-based practice guideline to focus on four key care issues: provision of warmth, close physical contact, nutritional support, and sedation and pain management. The purpose of this article is to supply health care providers with evidencebased comfort care guidelines for neonates at the end of life who either are previable or have had life support withdrawn. The process used for developing the guidelines is included.
Swimming with Sharks: Ten Tips for Surviving a Deposition
Authors: Miller Lisa
Published: November 2011

EVERY CLINICIAN WORKING IN neonatal or obstetric nursing for any length of time knows that he or she will eventually have to participate in what can be the most anxietyproducing process in our profession. No, it’s not resuscitating the high-risk, severely preterm infant or delivering devastating news to a baby’s parents—it’s giving a deposition in a medical malpractice case. Whether one is a named defendant or simply a witness to the facts of the case, a deposition is sure to strike fear into the bravest and most confident nurse. This column gives you a perspective on the deposition process, as well as ten simple tips for keeping your cool and surviving your “swim with the sharks.”
Jarcho-Levin Syndrome: A Case Study
Authors: Ables Peggy
Published: November 2011

Jarcho-Levin syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by multiple vertebral and rib anomalies. There are two types of Jarcho-Levin syndrome, spondylothoracic dysplasia and spondylocostal dysostosis. Spondylothoracic dysplasia has a grimmer prognosis than spondylocostal dysostosis. Many of the infants born with this disorder succumb to respiratory failure. With new advances in medical care, even the more severely affected children have an improved chance of survival. This is a case presentation of one child with spondylothoracic dysplasia and a brief history of the disease process.
News of The Academy of Neonatal Nursing
Authors: Davis Deborah Winders
Published: November 2011

The 4th National Neonatal Nurses Meeting in Orlando, Florida, took place within a few days after Hurricane Jeanne passed through Florida. This was the third significant hurricane to hit Florida within a span of six weeks. However, attendance was hardly affected by the storms as approximately 950 NICU nurses found everything operational when they arrived in Orlando.
Evidence of Things Hoped For
Authors: Burkes Norris
Published: November 2011

“YOUR STAFF SEEMED A BIT CHATTY this afternoon,” I told the assistant nurse manager in our NICU.
A Comparison of the Light- Reduction Capacity of Commonly Used Incubator Covers
Authors: Lee Yi-Hui , Malakooti Nima , Lotas Marilyn
Published: November 2011

Purpose:The use of incubator covers to enhance preterm infants’ rest and recovery is common in the NICU. However, the kinds of covers used vary extensively among and within nurseries. Few data exist on the effectiveness of different types of covers in reducing light levels to the infant. This study compared several types of commonly used incubator covers as to efficacy of light reduction.

Design:A descriptive, comparative design was used in this study.

Sample:Twenty-three incubator covers were tested, including professional, receiving blanket, hand-crocheted, three-layer quilt, and flannel.

Main Outcome Variable:The percentage of light level reduction of different incubator covers under various ambient light level settings.

Results:The amount of light reduction provided by incubator covers varies depending on type of fabric as well as percentage of incubator surface shielded by the cover. Dark-colored covers provided greater light reduction than bright/light-colored covers when covers identical in fabric type were compared. The light-reduction efficiency of the covers varied depending on the level of ambient light. Covers provided less light reduction in higher ambient light levels.
Immunomodulation, Part I: Pentoxifylline
Authors: Bell Susan Givens
Published: November 2011

SEPSIS CONTINUES TO BE A significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. In a recent study by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network, 21 percent of very low birth weight neonates older than three days of age had one or more episodes of proven bloodstream sepsis (range for the 15 network centers: 11–32 percent). The study’s authors assert that strategies to decrease the incidence of nosocomial infection and the related social and economic impact are urgently needed.1 Researchers have been exploring various modalities, including immunomodulation, as adjuncts to antibiotics to enhance the neonatal immune system. Generally, immunomodulators act to stimulate or augment the immune system indirectly.
A Day in the NICU: Finding the Strength to Make a Difference
Authors: King Joanne
Published: November 2011

THIS MORNING AS I DRIVE TO work, I find myself praying for everyone I will encounter today. My prayer is that I will make a difference in their lives—whether I am interacting with a peer, a family in crisis, or an infant struggling to survive. I hope to bring words to comfort, skills to heal, arms to hold, and a heart to love so that our precious babies will have a chance to be everything that their families dream they can be and that they would know the purpose of their creation.
A Concept Analysis of Family-Centered Care in the NICU
Authors: Malusky Sheila
Published: November 2011

Family-centered care (FCC) has been implemented in many NICUs throughout the U.S. It is valuable in helping families whose infants require hospitalization cope with the stress, fear, and altered parenting roles that may accompany their child’s condition and hospitalization. To employ such a significant philosophy of care, nurses must understand what the FCC concept signifies. A concept analysis can often aid understanding of abstract ideas such as FCC. This article utilizes a 1995 framework for concept analysis to clarify the meaning of FCC for the neonatal nurse. Incorporating FCC into daily professional practice can enable nurses to improve the emotional and physical well- being of each family they encounter.
What Is a Hero?
Authors: Askin Debbie Fraser
Published: November 2011

ACCORDING TO WEBSTER’S NEW COLLEGIATE Dictionary, a hero is “someone who is admired for his achievements and qualities or one that shows great courage.” Since the onslaught of Hurricane Katrina, we have heard many stories of heroism—stories about rescues, giving, and surviving against formidable odds. As with any event of this magnitude, there are many more unsung heroes—people who quietly go about doing what needs to be done because that’s what they do. People who stayed behind in empty cities to take care of patients who couldn’t leave, and people who sat by the bedside to keep ventilators running, vitals signs monitored, and treatments given. People who accepted admission after admission, sometimes without full paperwork. People who are the men and women of the NICUs in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Texas—the neonatal nurses, neonatologists, RTs, and others who worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients.
Putting Babies “Back to Sleep”: Can We Do Better?
Authors: Levy Raydo Linda , Reu-Donlon Christine
Published: November 2011

The American Academy of Pediatrics first recommended in 1992 that infants be placed on their backs for sleep to reduce the risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Since that time, there has been a national drop in the incidence of SIDS of more than 40 percent. Unfortunately, many parents and other caregivers are still receiving inconsistent information and observing varying practices regarding infant sleep position.

This article emphasizes the role of the health care professional in both teaching and modeling these potentially lifesaving practices consistently and unambiguously. Available literature is reviewed regarding attitudes and beliefs about infant sleep positioning, and specific concerns are addressed in order to allow for better tailoring of educational programs.
Neonatal Intravenous Extravasation Injuries: Evaluation of a Wound Care Protocol
Authors: Sawatzky-Dickson Doris , Bodnaryk Karen
Published: November 2011

Purpose:To evaluate an evidence-based wound protocol for intravenous extravasation injuries in neonates.

Sample:Nine newborns with intravenous extravasation injuries. Birth weight: 582–4,404 gm, gestational age: 24–40 weeks.

Results:Five wounds were colonized with coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species, two with diphtheroids, three with Enterococcus. There was no evidence of wound infection or systemic infection. Rates of wound healing ranged from one to six weeks.
Sturge-Weber Syndrome: A Case Study
Authors: Welty Linda
Published: November 2011

Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) is a rare, sporadic, progressive, congenital syndrome. In its complete trisymptomatic form, SWS is physically characterized by port-wine stains over the trigeminal area, leptomeningeal angiomas usually over the parieto-occipital region, and eye abnormalities. Clinical manifestation for infants with SWS depends on the affected organs, but can include seizures, mental retardation, and glaucoma. This article begins with a case presentation of an infant with SWS and then presents the etiology, embryology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, management, and prognosis of SWS.
Midline Catheter Use in the Intensive Care Nursery
Authors: Leick-Rude Mary Kay , Haney Barbara
Published: November 2011

Purpose: To describe the use of midline catheters in a Level IV, 48-bed NICU over a four-and-a-half-year period.

Design: Nonrandomized prospective review of data obtained for quality assurance monitoring.

Sample: 1,130 catheters inserted in 858 patients ranging in age at insertion from 1 to 249 days, 360–8,000 gm in weight, and 23–42 weeks gestational age at birth.

Outcome Variables: Catheter outcome data related to dwell times; patient characteristics; insertion site; and reason for removal, including failure related to infiltration, leaking, occlusion, dislodgment, infection, phlebitis, or malposition.

Results: There was no significant statistical difference in median catheter survival times related to weight or postconceptional age. Overall mean catheter dwell time was 8.7 days. Scalp was the most common insertion site (49 percent), and the site with the longest dwell time was the saphenous vein at the knee, which lasted a mean of 12.9 days. Elective removal represented 43 percent of all removals. Incidence of positive blood culture was 3.5 percent (0.41/1,000 catheter days), with the risk significantly higher if a central line was also in place.
Palliative Care Delivery in the NICU: What Barriers Do Neonatal Nurses Face?
Authors: Kain Victoria
Published: November 2011

Despite the existence of a universal protocol in palliative care for dying babies and their families, provision of this type of care remains ad hoc in contemporary neonatal settings. Influential bodies such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization support palliative care to this patient population, so why are such measures not universally adopted? Are there barriers that prevent neonatal nurses from delivering this type of care? A search of the literature reveals that such barriers may be significant and that they have the potential to prevent dying babies from receiving the care they deserve. The goal of this literature review is to identify these barriers to providing palliative care in neonatal nursing. Results of the research have been used to determine item content for a survey to conceptualize and address these barriers.
Going Home: What NICU Nurses Need to Know about Home Care
Authors: Scherf Rosalyn , Reid Karen White
Published: November 2011

Pediatric home health care enables patients to be at home with their families in settings that bring them joy, comfort, and the security we all feel when we are at home. There is also a feeling, no matter how small, that the parents have some control over what is happening to their child. Infants with multiple needs require in-depth discharge planning. There are the physical and health concerns of the preterm infant and the potential complications that he could still develop. Parent teaching is vital for the successful transition from hopital to home. When the neonatal discharge nurse is aware of what difficulties the parents and the patient might face at home, her teaching can be tailored to meet the specific needs of these vulnerable, complicated infants. This article discusses the discharge planning process, which begins upon admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, as well as common problems encountered by many premature infants discharged home.
Immunomodulation Part IV: Glutamine
Authors: Bell Susan Givens
Published: November 2011

SEPSIS CONTINUES TO BE A significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Researchers have been exploring various modalities, including immunomodulation, as adjuncts to antibiotics to enhance the neonatal immune system. Generally, the role of the immunomodulators that have been studied is indirect stimulation or augmentation of the immune system.
Cloacal Exstrophy: A Case Study
Authors: Marvin Tracy
Published: November 2011

Cloacal exstrophy is a complex congenital anomaly that affects both the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. It is characterized by an omphalocele, an exstrophied bladder, abnormal genitalia, and imperforate anus. Prior to 1960, there were no reported cases of survival, but because of advancements in neonatology, surgery, and anesthesiology, the survival rate has improved drastically. This case presentation of an infant born with cloacal exstrophy includes discussion of etiology, diagnosis, treatment, ethical issues, and nursing care.
Potassium and Sodium Homeostasis in the Neonate
Authors: Nash Patricia
Published: November 2011

MANAGEMENT OF FLUIDS AND electrolytes is crucial when caring for the high-risk neonate. Fluid and electrolyte requirements vary with developmental limitations related to gestational age, as well as by the diagnosis or disease process involved. Management is further complicated by the physiologic contraction of extracellular water, and subsequent weight loss, that occurs during the first week after birth. Therefore, fluid and electrolyte balance requires meticulous assessment of both physiologic and clinical data in conjunction with laboratory data. Data to be followed include heart rate, blood pressure, skin turgor, capillary refill, mucus membranes, fullness of the anterior fontanel, daily (or more frequent) weights, intake and output, creatinine levels, and daily (or more frequent) serum electrolyte levels.1,2 Very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants may require an assessment of weight as often as three times a day and sampling of serum electrolytes as often as every four to eight hours.1