bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red fescue undersown in winter wheat suppresses Elytrigia repens
Authors: BERGKVIST G , ADLER A , HANSSON M , WEIH M
Published: May 2010

Bergkvist G, Adler A, Hansson M & Weih M (2010). Red fescue undersown in winter wheat suppresses Elytrigia repens. Weed Research50, 447–455.

Elytrigia repens (syn. Elymus repens) is a perennial grass weed that is controlled by herbicides or by tillage. Both methods are expensive and may have negative effects on the environment. Therefore, alternative methods of weed control, such as using competition from under‐sown perennial forage crops, are of interest. Red fescue can be sown together with winter wheat as a non‐flowering understorey crop that has its main growth during late summer and autumn. This study quantified the effect of red fescue and E. repens on wheat biomass and tested the hypothesis that under‐sown red fescue reduces the amount of E. repens rhizomes and thus the need for herbicides or tillage. Two field experiments in which winter wheat, red fescue and E. repens were grown in all possible combinations were conducted between 2003 and 2005. Elytrigia repens reduced wheat biomass by 8%, while red fescue had no significant effect on wheat biomass. Red fescue reduced late autumn biomass of E. repens rhizomes by 40%. The results suggest that red fescue sown with winter wheat can reduce propagation of E. repens during summer and autumn, without a significant reduction in wheat biomass.
Growing up on a farm leads to lifelong protection against allergic rhinitis
Authors: Eriksson J. , Ekerljung L. , Lötvall J. , Pullerits T. , Wennergren G. , Rönmark E. , Torén K. , Lundbäck B.
Published: May 2010

To cite this article: Eriksson J, Ekerljung L, Lötvall J, Pullerits T, Wennergren G, Rönmark E, Torén K, Lundbäck B. Growing up on a farm leads to lifelong protection against allergic rhinitis. Allergy 2010; 65: 1397–1403.

Background:  Various studies have reported a low prevalence of allergic rhinitis in farmers and farmers’ children. We sought to investigate whether the protective effect of childhood farm environment is conserved throughout adulthood and how it corresponds to different degrees of urbanization.

Methods:  A questionnaire on respiratory health was mailed in 2008 to 30 000 randomly selected subjects aged 16–75 in West Sweden, 29 218 could be traced and 18 087 (62%) responded. The questionnaire included questions on allergic rhinitis, asthma, respiratory symptoms and possible determinants.

Results:  When stratified into age groups of 15 years, subjects that lived on a farm during their first 5 years of life had a lower prevalence of allergic rhinitis in all groups, even among the oldest (61–75 years). The negative correlation between childhood farm living and prevalence of allergic rhinitis was similar in 46–75 years of age (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.70–0.95) as in 16–45 years of age (OR 0.78; 0.64–0.95). There was a significant trend of increasing prevalence of allergic rhinitis with increasing degree of urbanization independent of the effect of childhood farm living.

Conclusions:  We found a lifelong protective effect of childhood farm living on the prevalence of allergic rhinitis. In addition, we found an increasing prevalence of allergic rhinitis with increasing degree of urbanization both in those raised on a farm and those not, thus emphasizing the influence of both childhood and adult exposure for the development of allergic disease.
Computed Tomographic, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Cross‐Sectional Anatomic Features of the Manus in a Normal American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
Authors: Ober C. P. , Freeman L. E.
Published: May 2010

With 11 figures and 1 table

The purpose of this study was to provide a detailed description of cross‐sectional anatomic structures of the manus of a black bear cadaver and correlate anatomic findings with corresponding features in computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images. CT, MR imaging, and transverse sectioning were performed on the thoracic limb of a cadaver female black bear which had no evidence of lameness or thoracic limb abnormality prior to death. Features in CT and MR images corresponding to clinically important anatomic structures in anatomic sections were identified. Most of the structures identified in transverse anatomic sections were also identified using CT and MR imaging. Bones, muscles and tendons were generally easily identified with both imaging modalities, although divisions between adjacent muscles were rarely visible with CT and only visible sometimes with MR imaging. Vascular structures could not be identified with either imaging modality.
Comparison of repeatability and multiple trait threshold models for litter size in sheep using observed and simulated data in Bayesian analyses
Authors: Mekkawy W. , Roehe R. , Lewis R.M. , Davies M.H. , Bünger L. , Simm G. , Haresign W.
Published: May 2010

Bayesian analyses were used to estimate genetic parameters on 5580 records of litter size in the first four parities from 1758 Mule ewes. To examine the appropriateness of fitting repeatability (RM) or multiple trait threshold models (MTM) to litter size of different parities, both models were used to estimate genetic parameters on the observed data and were thereafter compared in a simulation study. Posterior means of the heritabilities of litter size in different parities using a MTM ranged from 0.12 to 0.18 and were higher than the heritability based on the RM (0.08). Posterior means of the genetic correlations between litter sizes of different parities were positive and ranged from 0.24 to 0.71. Data sets were simulated based on the same pedigree structure and genetic parameters of the Mule ewe population obtained from both models. The simulation showed that the relative loss in accuracy and increase in mean squared error (MSE) was substantially higher when using the RM, given that the parameters estimated from the observed data using the opposite model are the true parameters. In contrast, Bayesian information criterion (BIC) selected the RM as most appropriate model given the data because of substantial penalty for the higher number of parameters to be estimated in the MTM model. In conclusion, when the relative change in accuracy and MSE is of main interest for estimation of breeding values of litter size of different parities, the MTM is recommended for the given population. When reduction in risk of using the wrong model is the main aim, the BIC suggest that the RM is the most appropriate model.
Probes and Techniques for Sperm Evaluation by Flow Cytometry
Authors: Martínez‐Pastor F , Mata‐Campuzano M , Álvarez‐Rodríguez M , Álvarez M , Anel L , De Paz P
Published: May 2010

Contents

Flow cytometry has become an important technique in sperm evaluation and is increasingly used both for routine assessment and for research in veterinary science. We have revised the literature, describing fluorescent probes that have been used for analysing spermatozoa by flow cytometry, regarding: viability, acrosomal status, capacitation, mitochondrial status, apoptotic markers, oxidative stress markers, DNA damage, sperm counting and sperm sizing. Details and problems of some techniques are reviewed, with special attention to the occurrence of non‐sperm particles in the samples (‘debris’). New and promising aspects of flow cytometry, such as sperm sorting using viability markers as selection criteria, are highlighted. The relationship between flow cytometry analyses and fertility and their future improvements are considered.
In VitroProduction of Equine Embryos: State of the Art
Authors: Hinrichs K
Published: May 2010

Contents

In vitroembryo production is possible in the horse both clinically and for research applications. Oocytes may be collected from excised ovaries post‐mortem, or from either immature follicles or stimulated pre‐ovulatory follicles in the live mare.In vitromaturation of immature oocytes typically yields approximately 60% mature oocytes. As standardin vitrofertilization is not yet repeatable in the horse, fertilization is performed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Embryo culture requires medium with high glucose, at least during blastocyst development, and rates of blastocyst development similar to those for cattle (25% to 35%) may be obtained. Pregnancy rates after transfer ofin vitro‐produced blastocysts are similar to those for embryos recoveredex vivo.
Ascending Placentitis in the Mare: An Update
Authors: LeBlanc MM
Published: May 2010

Contents

Ascending placentitis is a common cause of premature birth, abortion and delivery of compromised, ill foals. Recent experimental models have investigated diagnostic procedures and treatment strategies in an attempt to improve live foal rate. Diagnostics such as transrectal and transabdominal ultrasonography are used to evaluate foetal well‐being and placental separation, while measurement of plasma progestins or oestrogen identifies a stressed or hypoxic foetus. Treatment is directed at stopping spread of infection, maintaining uterine quiescence and blocking production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. It must be instituted early if a pregnancy is to be saved. Treatments include antibiotics, tocolytics and immunomodulators. Prompt, aggressive treatment with antibiotics has improved foal viability in experimental models of placentitis.
Use of Cholesterol in Sperm Cryopreservation: Present Moment and Perspectives to Future
Authors: Mocé E , Blanch E , Tomás C , Graham JK
Published: May 2010

Contents

Sperm cryosurvival rates are not optimal for most species. Therefore, new cryopreservation strategies are needed with the objective of increasing the number of surviving sperm and the quality of those sperm after thawing. Cholesterol plays important roles in many sperm functions, including effects on membrane properties. One of these effects is to stabilize membranes at low temperatures. Thus, species that produce sperm which possess high membrane cholesterol : phospholipid ratios are more resistant to cold shock than sperm with low cholesterol : phospholipid ratios. Therefore, increasing the cholesterol content of sperm membranes may be a strategy that can improve sperm quality after freeze‐thawing. In this review, information is presented related to using cyclodextrins pre‐loaded with cholesterol for cryopreserving sperm from different species. The topics discussed include bothin vitroandin vivoassessments of sperm quality after cryopreservation, as well as how increasing sperm cholesterol content affects other sperm functions.
Clinicopathological features and prognosis of Chinese patients with acute post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis
Authors: LUO CHUNLEI , CHEN DONGMEI , TANG ZHENG , ZHOU YAN , WANG JINQUAN , LIU ZHIHONG , LI LEISHI
Published: May 2010

Aim:  To investigate clinicopathological and prognostic differences between adults and children with acute post‐streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN).

Methods:  A retrospective case series of 112 patients with APSGN was undertaken. Patients were divided into two groups according to age: adults aged more than 17 years and children aged less than 15 years.

Results:  The incidence of APSGN, especially in adults, has decreased in the past three decades. Children have had a higher incidence of macroscopic haematuria than adults (58.3% vs 32.7%, P < 0.05). Laboratory test showed that red blood cell count of urine sediment in children was more significant. On light microscopy, adults had more global glomerulosclerosis, tubular basement membrane thickening, tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis, while children had more glomerular infiltrating neutrophils and monocytes and cellular casts. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that classical staining was seen more in children. The short‐term prognoses were good in both children and adults. But the recovery rate of proteinuria in children was faster than that in adults.

Conclusion:  Adults with APSGN had similar clinical features as children except that children had more significant haematuria. On pathology, adults had more outstanding chronic changes by light microscopy and more untypical staining by immunofluorescence.
Korean Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised (K‐ACER) for differential diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and subcortical ischemic vascular dementia
Authors: Kwak Yong Tae , Yang Youngsoon , Kim Gyung Whan
Published: May 2010

Aim:  Sensitive, specific neuropsychological screening tests, such as the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination Revised (ACE‐R), are essential for dementia diagnosis. We aimed to validate the use of the Korean version of ACE‐R (K‐ACER) to differentiate Alzheimer's disease (AD) from subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD).

Methods:  Standard tests for dementia screening were applied to 156 subjects (84 controls, 30 AD, 42 SIVD), and total and sub‐domain scores on the K‐ACER, as well as the sub‐domain ratio (VLOM), were compared.

Results:  The reliability of the K‐ACER was very good (α‐coefficient 0.84), and cut‐off score for dementia was determined (cut‐off value 78, sensitivity 0.93, specificity 0.95). The likelihood ratio for dementia was calculated as between 78 and 82. At a cut‐off of 78, the likelihood of dementia was 18.6:1. Although a comparison of K‐ACER scores between AD and SIVD patients revealed significant differences in verbal fluency, language domain and VLOM ratio, sensitivity and specificity for differential diagnosis between AD and SVID proved less accurate.

Conclusion:  The K‐ACER is a rapid, sensitive and specific dementia screening test. Though sub‐domains of items may be useful for differentiating between AD and SIVD, sensitivity and specificity is less accurate than dementia screening itself. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2010; 10: 295–301.
Transition of cytomegalovirus seropositivity in Japanese puerperal women
Authors: Inde Yusuke , Yamaguchi Satoru , Kamoi Seiryu , Takeshita Toshiyuki
Published: May 2010

Aim:  To investigate the latest serological tendency of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in Japanese puerperal women and to estimate the sequential influence on child‐bearing women in Japan.

Methods:  We studied 3966 puerperal women registered at a cord blood bank. Serum samples were obtained from umbilical cords at delivery and on the third day after delivery. CMV immunoglobulin G (IgG) and CMV immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies were determined using enzyme immunoassay kits. Scatter diagrams between seroprevalences and perinatal details were generated, and Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficients (r) and coefficients of determination (R2) were calculated.

Results:  The overall CMV seroprevalence was 68.4% for the IgG antibody and 3.9% for the IgM antibody. IgM seroconversion had occurred separately in 0.28% of the cases without IgG seroconversion. Including outliers on scatter plots, linear decreasing trends were observed for IgG seropositivity with measurement year (r = −0.72, P < 0.05, R2 = 51.8%) and maternal birth year (r = −0.43, P < 0.05, R2 = 18.2%). There was a linear increasing tendency for IgG seroprevalence with maternal age (r = 0.46, P < 0.05, R2 = 21.4%). Without the outlier, a linear decreasing tendency was found for IgM seropositivity (r = −0.85, P < 0.01, R2 = 71.6%).

Conclusion:  CMV seropositivity decreased with maternal youth in Japanese puerperal women. A possible contradiction was identified: decreasing tendencies in the seroprevalence of both IgG and IgM might coexist. We assume that actual CMV infections spread in a transient epidemic manner in which it may not be possible to observe a linear tendency and/or that the actual risk of maternal CMV infection might be decreasing.
The relationship of COX–2 expression with estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and prognostic parameters in endometrial carcinomas
Authors: Keser Sevinç Hallaç , Gül Aylin Ege , Barışık Nagehan Özdemir , Çakır Çağlar , Şensu Sibel , Kandemir Nilüfer Onak , Karadayı Nimet
Published: May 2010

Aim:  Endometrial cancer (EC), which is the most common gynecologic cancer, develops as a result of disruption of the delicate balance between cell proliferation and cell loss, or apoptosis through activation of oncogenesis, or loss of tumor suppressor genes. Among the biochemical factors proposed to give a more detailed characterization of EC biology, estrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR) play a major role. Most of the studies in the literature have shown increased expression of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX–2) in EC. Recent experiments suggest that COX–2 antagonizes cell apoptosis, increases the invasiveness of malignant cells and promotes angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of COX–2 in EC, to study its correlation to established menstrual status, grade, myometrial invasion, lymph node status, stage and ER and PR status.

Material & Methods:  The study was performed on 72 ECs. Immunohistochemically was analyzed for ER, PR, and COX–2.

Results:  COX–2 positivity was found in 91.7% of the cases. In 61 cases (84.7%) there was ER positive staining, and in 59 cases (81.9%) PR positive staining was observed. We have not found a statistically significant relation between COX–2 and prognostic factors, ER and PR.

Conclusions:  A high expression rate still suggests a probable relation with endometrial carcinogenesis. If such a relation exists, new therapeutic options might be available in the future.
Uterine junctional zone at magnetic resonance imaging: A predictor of in vitro fertilization implantation failure
Authors: Maubon Antoine , Faury Alexandre , Kapella Michel , Pouquet Magalie , Piver Pascal
Published: May 2010

Aim:  To prospectively study the influence of the uterine junctional zone thickness measured on pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), on implantation rates during in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Methods:  A prospective clinical‐imaging study was conducted and included 152 female patients. Patients had a positive diagnosis of infertility and an indication for IVF. All patients had a pelvic MRI scan on a 1.5T magnet with T2‐weighted sequences prior to IVF. The average junctional zone thickness value and the maximal junctional zone thickness values were measured. Implantation outcomes were correlated with junctional zone values and with infertility subtypes (endometriosis, tubal, dysovulation, male, unexplained).

Results:  The mean number of embryo transfers per patient was 1.63, with a total pregnancy rate of 54%. Junctional zone thickness increase was significantly correlated with implantation failure at IVF: implantation failure rate was 95.8% for patients with an average junctional zone superior to 7 mm and a maximal junctional zone superior to 10 mm, versus 37.5% in other patient groups (P < 0.0001), independently from the cause of infertility or patients' age.

Conclusion:  In a group of infertile patients engaged in an IVF program, a pelvic MRI scan showing a thickened uterine junctional zone is a negative predictive factor for embryo implantation after IVF.
Late post‐cesarean surgical complication
Authors: Fawzy Muhammad , Zalata Khaled
Published: May 2010

Aim:  The aim of the study was to clarify the incidence, indication, and management of late surgical intervention following cesarean section (CS) in a tertiary care university hospital.

Methods:  A cohort of 5981 women underwent CS from a group of 24 060 parturients in a retrospective study at a tertiary care university hospital. Surgical intervention after CS in the late postoperative period (after puerperium) was reviewed regarding clinical, operative, and pathological findings.

Results:  The CS rate was 24.86%. The incidence of late surgical intervention after CS was 0.40% (24/5981); of these 24 women, 10 (41.67%) were operated for skin lesions, two (8.3%) for urogenital fistula, three (12.5%) for gastrointestinal problems, three (12.5%) for omental masses and six (25%) for pelvic lesions.

Conclusion:  Although the incidence of surgical intervention after CS in the late postoperative period is low and the outcome is favorable, several measures must be undertaken to reduce late surgical complications.
Internal iliac artery ligation for severe postpartum hemorrhage and severe hemorrhage after postpartum hysterectomy
Authors: Camuzcuoglu Hakan , Toy Harun , Vural Mehmet , Yildiz Fahrettin , Aydın Halef
Published: May 2010

Aim:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of internal iliac artery (IIA) ligation performed for severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods:  Thirty‐three women who underwent IIA ligation to control PPH in a tertiary referral center between June 2007 and May 2009 were included in this retrospective analysis. IIA ligation was performed as the primary surgical intervention or to control bleeding following hysterectomy.

Results:  The 33 women underwent IIA ligation due to uterine atony (n = 22), placenta previa accreta/increta/percreta (n = 5), uterine rupture (n = 4), and placental abruption (n = 2). Twenty‐four women underwent IIA ligation as the primary surgical intervention. IIA ligation resulted in control of bleeding in 18/24 women (75%), and only 6/24 women (25%) showed unsuccessful management of bleeding with IIA ligation. In the six women for whom the bleeding was not controlled with IIA ligation, hysterectomy was urgently performed before closure of the abdomen. After obtaining adequate hemostasis with IIA ligation, no women required relaparotomy in the postoperative period. Nine women with persistent bleeding following hysterectomy were also treated with IIA ligation. In our study, there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications related to the procedure.

Conclusion:  IIA ligation may be an effective and safe treatment option to arrest severe PPH. This procedure may also be useful to arrest persistent hemorrhage after hysterectomy. Increased understanding of the retroperitoneal anatomy is needed to reduce the risk of intraoperative and postoperative serious complications.
Perceived risk of Type 2 diabetes in Australian women with a recent history of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Morrison M. K. , Lowe J. M. , Collins C. E.
Published: May 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 882–886 (2010)

Aims  To describe the risk perceptions and factors associated with a high level of perceived risk for the development of Type 2 diabetes in a sample of Australian women with a recent history of gestational diabetes mellitus.

Methods  Participants were women aged 18 years and over, diagnosed with gestational diabetes between 2003 and 2005, registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme. Cross‐sectional data were collected via written postal survey and included a self‐reported risk perception scale.

Results  Of 4098 invited, eligible women, 1372 consented to participate (response rate 36%). Respondents currently pregnant or subsequently diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were excluded (n = 196). Up to 3 years post‐gestational diabetes, 32% of women perceived that they were at a low or very low risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, 42% at moderate risk and 26% high or very high risk. Using logistic regression analysis, factors associated with high level of perceived risk were body mass index > 25 kg/m2 [odds ratio (OR) 4.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) (3.12, 6.51)], a family history of diabetes [OR 3.80, 95% CI (2.67, 5.33)] and use of insulin during pregnancy [OR 1.92, 95% CI (1.31, 2.61)].

Conclusions  Although women with known risk factors for Type 2 diabetes were more likely to perceive their risk as high, we found that one third still considered themselves to be at low or very low risk for the development of diabetes. These results suggest a need for increased awareness of gestational diabetes as a strong predictor of Type 2 diabetes risk.
Comparing risk profiles of individuals diagnosed with diabetes by OGTT and HbA1cThe Danish Inter99 study
Authors: Borg R. , Vistisen D. , Witte D. R. , Borch‐Johnsen K.
Published: May 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 906–910 (2010)

Aims  Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) has been proposed as an alternative to the oral glucose tolerance test for diagnosing diabetes. We compared the cardiovascular risk profile of individuals identified by these two alternative methods.

Methods  We assessed the prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with undiagnosed diabetes according to the World Health Organization classification or by the newly proposed HbA1c level ≥ 6.5% among 6258 participants of the Danish Inter99 study. Receiver operating curve analysis assessed the ability of fasting: 2‐h plasma glucose and HbA1c to distinguish between individuals at high and low risk of ischemic heart disease, predicted by the PRECARD program.

Results  Prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was 4.1% [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.7–4.7%] by the current oral glucose tolerance test definition, whereas 6.6% (95% CI 6.0–7.2%) had diabetes by HbA1c levels. HbA1c‐defined individuals were relatively older with higher proportions of men, smokers, lipid abnormalities and macro‐albuminuria, but they were leaner and had lower blood pressure. HbA1c was better than fasting‐ and 2‐h plasma glucose at distinguishing between individuals of high and low predicted risk of ischaemic heart disease; however, the difference between HbA1c and fasting‐ and 2‐h plasma glucose was not statistically significant.

Conclusions  Compared with the current oral glucose tolerance test definition, more individuals were classified as having diabetes based on the HbA1c criteria. This group had as unfavourable a risk profile as those identified by the oral glucose tolerance test.
The Leicester Risk Assessment score for detecting undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes and impaired glucose regulation for use in a multiethnic UK setting
Authors: Gray L. J. , Taub N. A. , Khunti K. , Gardiner E. , Hiles S. , Webb D. R. , Srinivasan B. T. , Davies M. J.
Published: May 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 887–895 (2010)

Aims  Risk assessment scores identify those at high risk of impaired glucose regulation and Type 2 diabetes mellitus. To date no risk assessment scores that can be completed by a lay person have been developed and validated specifically for multiethnic populations in the UK.

Methods  We used data on 6186 subjects aged 40–75 years from a multiethnic UK screening study (73% white European, 22% South Asian). All participants were given a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. We developed logistic regression models for predicting current impaired glucose regulation (impaired fasting glycaemia/impaired glucose tolerance) or Type 2 diabetes mellitus using data from anthropometric measurements and self‐reported questionnaires. Using the best‐fitting model, we developed the Leicester Risk Assessment score. We externally validated the score using data from 3171 subjects aged 40–75 years from a separate screening study.

Results  The components of the final model are age, ethnicity [white European vs. other (predominantly South Asian)], sex, first degree family history of diabetes, antihypertensive therapy or history of hypertension, waist circumference and body mass index. The score ranges from 0 to 47. Validating this model using the data from the second screening study gave an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve of 72% (95% confidence interval, 69–74%). A cut point of 16 had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 45%.

Conclusions  The Leicester Risk Assessment score can be used to identify those at high risk of impaired glucose regulation and Type 2 diabetes mellitus in UK multiethnic populations. The score is simple (seven questions) and non‐invasive.
Vasectomy within the public health services in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Marchi N.M. , De Alvarenga A.T. , Osis M.J.D. , De Aguiar Godoy H.M. , Simões e Silva Domeni M.F. , Bahamondes L.
Published: May 2010

MARCHI N.M., DE ALVARENGA A.T., OSIS M.J.D., DE AGUIAR GODOY H.M., SIMÕES E SILVA DOMENI M.F. & BAHAMONDES L. (2010) Vasectomy within the public health services in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. International Nursing Review57, 254–259

Objective:  To describe some of the characteristics of men who underwent a vasectomy in the public health network of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods:  A descriptive study including 202 men randomly selected from a list of all the men vasectomized between 1998 and 2004 in the public health network.

Results:  Most of the men were 30 years of age or older when vasectomized, had completed elementary school and had two or more children of both sexes. Most of the men came from the lowest income segment of the population: 47.6% in 1998–1999 and 61.3% in 2003–2004. Although the men knew various contraceptive methods, 51.2% reported that their partners were using combined oral contraceptives at the time of surgery. Most men initially sought information on vasectomy at health‐care clinics where care was provided by a multidisciplinary team; most received counselling, however, 47.9% of the men waited more than 4 months for the vasectomy.

Conclusions:  The profile of the vasectomized men in this study appears to indicate that the low‐income population from Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil has access to vasectomy; however, the waiting time for vasectomy reveals that difficulties exist in obtaining this contraceptive method in the public health service.
The evaluation of nurses and nursing activities through the perceptions of inpatients
Authors: Oflaz F. , Vural H.
Published: May 2010

OFLAZ F. & VURAL H. (2010) The evaluation of nurses and nursing activities through the perceptions of inpatients. International Nursing Review57, 232–239

Aim:  To examine the relationship of inpatients' perceptions and satisfaction statements with nurses and the nursing activities presented and to determine nursing activities that were implemented mostly from the view of inpatients.

Background:  Nursing care is one of the fundamental components of health care, and studies have shown that it has a considerable influence on how patients experience hospitalization. However, nursing care is usually listed as one category in surveys. In fact, nursing care is an integrated combination of specific nursing activities, and to improve nursing practice we need to clarify how each nursing activity affects the perceptions of patients.

Methods:  This descriptive study uses cross‐sectional survey design. The sample consists of 454 inpatients from a large‐scale teaching hospital in Ankara, Turkey. A questionnaire survey including demographics and perceptions of the patients, along with a list of the activities that nurses were required to carry out, were administered to the patients.

Findings:  Age, gender and marital status were the variables influencing patients' perceptions. Technical nursing activities were recognized more by patients than activities related to care. All nursing activities were relevant to patient satisfaction statements. Most of the patients were satisfied with the nursing care despite the task‐oriented environment.

Conclusions:  The results of this study show that nurses tend to do technical activities. All nursing activities were related to patient satisfaction statements. Nurses should be aware of the effect of each activity they are required to carry out on patients and the importance of good communication with patients.
Evaluation of an elderly care training programme for women
Authors: Bayik T.A. , Uysal A.
Published: May 2010

BAYIK T.A. & UYSAL A. (2010) Evaluation of an elderly care training programme for women. International Nursing Review57, 240–246

Background:  Caregiving across different cultures has been perceived conventionally as a private or family responsibility, predominantly performed by women who accept their caregiving as part of their gender role.

Aim:  This study aimed to design, deliver, and evaluate an elderly training programme for women by assessing their knowledge, attitudes and skills as a lay caregiver. Encouraging the women to find suitable positions for employment in private or governmental institutions was the further objective of the study.

Design:  The study was a quasi‐experimental one‐group pre‐test post‐test design.

Methods:  The study was conducted in a solidarity centre for women and in a nursing home for the elderly. The sample covered 120 women selected from the community by convenience sampling. Data were gathered through pre‐ and post‐test evaluation and observation forms in 2 May–22 December 2005. The training programme consisted of 230 h of didactic sessions, demonstrations and clinical practices.

Findings:  The mean change in the participants' knowledge score (pre‐test: 41.44 ± 0.92; post‐test: 71.16 ± 1.34) demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in their knowledge. According to clinical observations, most of them displayed satisfactory caring and communication skills towards the elderly. Virtually all participants reported increased skill, knowledge and confidence.

Conclusion:  The developed training programme was effective, resulting in an increased knowledge, the acquisition of good attitudes towards the elderly, and performing satisfactory caring and communication skills. Similar community‐based programmes managed by nurses are recommended to support non‐professional caregivers. The research is not only an innovative but also a revolutionary model to promote women.
Global Government Health Partners' Forum 2006: eighteen months later
Authors: Foster J. , Guisinger V. , Graham A. , Hutchcraft L. , Salmon M.
Published: May 2010

FOSTER J., GUISINGER V., GRAHAM A., HUTCHCRAFT L. & SALMON M. (2010) Global Government Health Partners' Forum 2006: eighteen months later. International Nursing Review57, 173–179

Background:  The challenge of global health worker shortages, particularly among nurses, has been the topic of numerous forums over the last several years. Nevertheless, there has been little attention given to the roles of government chief nursing and medical officers as key partners in addressing health worker shortages. This partnership and its potential impact on the adequacy of the global health workforce was the focus of the most recent Global Government Health Partners (GGHP) Forum held in November 2006 in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. This forum was uniquely designed to create a context for government chief nursing officers and chief medical officers to engage in a joint learning and planning experience focused on positioning their leadership to impact health workforce issues.

Aim:  This article describes an 18‐month follow‐up evaluation of the outcomes of the GGHP. The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the impact of the forum experience on the actions of participants based on the country‐level plans they produced at the forum. This important feedback is intended to inform the design of future partnered global forums and gain insights into the utility of forum‐based action plans. The evaluation process itself has served as an opportunity for the engagement of university faculty, students and staff in a global service learning experience.

Conclusion:  The outcomes of this evaluation indicate that important progress has been made by countries whose leadership was involved in the forum, and was also an important learning activity for those participating in the conduct of the study.
Depressive symptoms among community‐dwelling, post‐stroke elders in Hong Kong
Authors: Lam S.C. , Lee L.Y.K. , To K.W.
Published: May 2010

LAM S.C., LEE L.Y.K. & TO K.W. (2010) Depressive symptoms among community‐dwelling, post‐stroke elders in Hong Kong. International Nursing Review57, 269–273

Background:  Depressive symptoms adversely affect functional recovery among post‐stroke elders. Such symptoms manifest when elders face difficulties in realistic daily living after being discharged.

Aims:  The aim of this study was to examine (1) the prevalence of depressive symptoms among community‐dwelling post‐stroke elders, (2) the relationship between depressive symptoms and demographic and clinical characteristics among community‐dwelling post‐stroke elders, and (3) the demographic and clinical factors that differentiate post‐stroke elders with and without depressive symptoms.

Methods:  A descriptive cross‐sectional survey was performed on 50 post‐stroke elders from a geriatric day clinic.

Findings:  Depressive symptoms were highly prevalent (68%) among the community‐dwelling post‐stroke elders. Depressive symptoms were negatively correlated with social support network, social support satisfaction and functional independence. Lastly, poor social support satisfaction and lower functional independence was found to differentiate those post‐stroke elders with and without depressive symptoms.

Conclusion:  The inclusion of psychosocial assessment and delivery of appropriate psychosocial interventions to post‐stroke elders are recommended.
Primary health care nurses' promotion of involuntary migrant families' health
Authors: Samarasinghe K. , Fridlund B. , Arvidsson B.
Published: May 2010

SAMARASINGHE K., FRIDLUND B. & ARVIDSSON B. (2010) Primary health care nurses' promotion of involuntary migrant families' health. International Nursing Review57, 224–231

Background:  Involuntary migrant families in cultural transition face a number of challenges to their health and to family cohesion. Primary health care nurses (PHCNs) therefore play a vital role in the assessment and promotion of their health.

Aim:  The aim of this study was to describe the promotion of health in involuntary migrant families in cultural transition as conceptualized by Swedish PHCNs.

Method:  Interviews were conducted with 34 strategically chosen PHCNs covering the entire range of the primary health care sector in two municipalities of Southern Sweden. A contextual approach with reference to phenomenography was used in interpreting the data.

Findings:  There are three qualitatively different descriptive categories epitomizing the characteristics of the PHCNs' promotion of health: (1) an ethnocentric approach promoting physical health of the individual, (2) an empathic approach promoting mental health of the individual in a family context, and (3) a holistic approach empowering the family to function well in everyday life.

Conclusions:  For nurses to promote involuntary migrant families'health in cultural transition, they need to adopt a holistic approach. Such an approach demands that nurses cooperate with other health care professionals and community authorities, and practise family‐focused nursing; it also demands skills in intercultural communication paired with cultural self‐awareness in interacting with these families. Adequate knowledge regarding these skills should therefore be included in the education of nurses, both at under‐ and at post‐graduate level.
Associations between work schedule characteristics and occupational injury and illness
Authors: De Castro A.B. , Fujishiro K. , Rue T. , Tagalog E.A. , Samaco‐Paquiz L.P.G. , Gee G.C.
Published: May 2010

DE CASTRO A.B., FUJISHIRO K., RUE T., TAGALOG E.A., SAMACO‐PAQUIZ L.P.G. & GEE G.C. (2010) Associations between work schedule characteristics and occupational injury and illness. International Nursing Review57, 188–194

Background:  Nurses often endure working irregular day, night and evening shifts as well as mandatory overtime (i.e. employer‐imposed work time in excess of one's assigned schedule). While these work characteristics are examined as potential risks for nurses' safety and health, it is not clear whether negative health impacts occur simply because of working long hours or in combination with other mechanisms.

Aim:  This study investigates how these work characteristics are associated with nurses' work‐related injury and illness over and above long work hours.

Methods:  In this cross‐sectional study, questionnaire data were collected from a sample of 655 registered nurses in the Philippines. Multiple logistic regression was used to assess associations of shift work and mandatory overtime with four work‐related health outcomes.

Results:  After weekly work hours, shift length and demographic variables were accounted for, non‐day shifts were associated with work‐related injury [odds ratio (OR) = 1.54; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07, 2.24] and work‐related illness (OR = 1.48; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.16). Also, frequency of working mandatory overtime was associated with work‐related injury (OR = 1.22; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.41), work‐related illness (OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.37) and missing more than 2 days of work because of a work‐related injury or illness (OR = 1.25; 95% CI: 1.08, 1.44).

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that non‐day shifts and mandatory overtime may negatively impact nurses' health independent of working long hours. Mechanisms through which these work characteristics affect health, such as circadian rhythm disturbance, nurse‐to‐patient ratios and work–family conflict, should be examined in future studies.
Chinese nurses' experience in the Wenchuan earthquake relief
Authors: Yang Y.‐N. , Xiao L.D. , Cheng H.‐Y. , Zhu J.‐C. , Arbon P.
Published: May 2010

YANG Y.‐N., XIAO L.D., CHENG H.‐Y., ZHU J.‐C. & ARBON P. (2010) Chinese nurses' experience in the Wenchuan earthquake relief. International Nursing Review57, 217–223

Aim:  The purpose of this qualitative study is to provide an understanding of how Chinese nurses acted in response to the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake.

Background:  The literature has reported that Chinese nurses played a key role in the Wenchuan earthquake. Although these nurses' intentions were well meaning, and they made enormous efforts to save lives, they considered that disaster relief practice was beyond the scope of normal daily nursing practice and found the challenges they confronted overwhelming. China is a country prone to both natural and man‐made disasters that demand a good deal of preparedness for those involved in disaster nursing. However, few studies have been conducted to investigate the knowledge, skill, experience and attitudes required for nurses responding to disasters.

Methods:  Gadamer's philosophical hermeneutics was used as a framework to underpin and interpret the qualitative accounts of the practice of the ten registered nurses in this study.

Findings:  Three themes were identified from semi‐structured interviews with the participants. These are described as (1) feeling under‐prepared; (2) perceived challenges and coping strategies; and (3) the rediscovery of the helping and caring role. By analysing these nurses' experiences in the Wenchuan earthquake relief operation, this study has identified the numerous roles and attributes required of nurses in response to disasters.

Conclusion:  Without education and training in disaster nursing, nurses may not be prepared to function in disaster relief, especially in a manner that is productive, efficient, collaborative and less stressful. Findings suggest that a systematic, educational approach to develop the skills required in disaster nursing is essential.
Cancer incidence among male Danish nurses, 1980–2003
Authors: Kjaer T.K. , Hansen J.
Published: May 2010

KJAER T.K., & HANSEN J. (2010) Cancer incidence among male Danish nurses, 1980–2003. International Nursing Review57, 211–216

Background:  The cancer risk of female nurses has been examined in several studies, but none has addressed the risk of male nurses, although they may be exposed to the same carcinogens as female nurses. In this register‐based cohort study, we explored cancer incidence among male Danish nurses.

Methods:  We identified 3369 male nurses from the files of the Danish Nurses Association and followed them up from 1980 to 2003 in the Danish Cancer Registry. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and 95% confidence intervals were calculated on the basis of standardized national rates. We compared the nurses with 3369 other male employees matched to the nurses by year of birth on social variables (vital and marital status).

Findings:  We observed 90 cancers in the cohort, with significantly increased SIRs for sarcomas and decreased SIRs for cancers of the respiratory system. When the cohort was stratified by educational generation and birth cohort, we observed significantly elevated relative risks for cancers of the brain and nervous system among the youngest nurses and for sarcomas among nurses in all educational generations and those born between 1945 and 1954.

Conclusion:  The overall risk for cancer among male Danish registered nurses is similar to that of the general male Danish population. The high SIRs observed for cancers of the brain and nervous system merit further attention. The high relative risks for sarcomas and connective tissue tumours reflect a large proportion of cases of Kaposi sarcoma, which is probably not occupationally related.
Structure and Governance in Industrial Districts: Implications for Competitive Advantage
Authors: Arıkan Andaç T. , Schilling Melissa A.
Published: May 2010

abstract

The existing research on industrial districts is fragmented, and yields conflicting advice for managers about the benefits and costs of locating in an industrial district. We resolve much of this ambiguity by synthesizing and integrating the existing research, and developing a typology of districts based on the continuous dimensions of need for coordination and centralization of control. In so doing, we elucidate why different types of industrial districts have different structures, and different competitive implications. We introduce four archetypes of industrial districts (based on extreme values of our two dimensions), and for each we discuss the benefits and costs of locating in the district, the sources of competitive advantage for members of the district vis‐à‐vis non‐members, and the sources of competitive advantage a district firm may gain over other members of the same district.
Risk‐managed production of bioactive recombinant proteins using a novel plant virus vector with a helper plant to complement viral systemic movement
Authors: Fukuzawa Noriho , Ishihara Takeaki , Itchoda Noriko , Tabayashi Noriko , Kataoka Chiwa , Masuta Chikara , Matsumura Takeshi
Published: May 2010

A plant viral vector has the potential to efficiently produce recombinant proteins at a low cost in a short period. Although recombinant proteins can be also produced by transgenic plants, a plant viral vector, if available, may be more convenient when urgent scale‐up in production is needed. However, it is difficult to use a viral vector in open fields because of the risk of escape to the environment. In this study, we constructed a novel viral vector system using a movement‐defective Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) vector, which is theoretically localized in the inoculated cells but infects systemically only with the aid of the transgenic helper plant that complements viral movement, diminishing the risk of viral proliferation. Interestingly, the helper plant systemically infected with the vector gave strong cross‐protection against challenge inoculation with wild‐type CMVs. Using CMV strains belonging to two discrete CMV groups (subgroups I and II), we also improved the system to prevent recombination between the vector and the transgene transcript in the helper plant. We here demonstrate the expression of an anti‐dioxin single chain variable fragment (DxscFv) and interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL1‐Ra) in Nicotiana benthamiana by this viral vector confinement system, which is applicable for many useful high‐quality recombinant proteins.