bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Feasibility, safety and preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of a home-based exercise programme for older people with Alzheimer’s disease: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Suttanon Plaiwan , Hill Keith D , Said Catherine M , Williams Susan B , Byrne Karin N , LoGiudice Dina , Lautenschlager Nicola T , Dodd Karen J 
Published: November 2012

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a home-based exercise programme for people with Alzheimer’s disease, and to provide preliminary evidence of programme effectiveness in improving balance and mobility and reducing falls risk. Design: A randomized controlled trial. Setting: Community. Participants: Forty people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (mean age 81.9, SD 5.72; 62.5% female). Interventions: Participants were randomized to a six-month home-based individually tailored balance, strengthening and walking exercise programme (physiotherapist) or a six-month home-based education programme (control) (occupational therapist). Both programmes provided six home-visits and five follow-up phone calls. Main measures: Balance, mobility, falls and falls risk were measured at baseline and programme completion. Intention-to-treat analysis using a generalized linear model with group allocation as a predictor variable was performed to evaluate programme effectiveness. Feasibility and adverse events were systematically recorded at each contact. Results: Fifty-eight per cent of the exercise group finished the programme, completing an average of 83% of prescribed sessions, with no adverse events reported. Functional Reach improved significantly ( P = 0.002) in the exercise group (mean (SD), 2.28 (4.36)) compared to the control group (–2.99 (4.87)). Significant improvement was also observed for the Falls Risk for Older People – Community score ( P = 0.008) and trends for improvement on several other balance, mobility, falls and falls risk measures for the exercise group compared to the control group. Conclusions: The exercise programme was feasible and safe and may help improve balance and mobility performance and reduce falls risk in people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Occupational therapy predischarge home visits for patients with a stroke (HOVIS): results of a feasibility randomized controlled trial
Authors: Drummond AER , Whitehead P , Fellows K , Sprigg N , Sampson CJ , Edwards C , Lincoln NB 
Published: November 2012

Objective: To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial of occupational therapy predischarge home visits for people after stroke. Design: Randomized controlled trial and cohort study. We randomized eligible patients for whom there was clinical uncertainty about the need to conduct a home visit to a randomized controlled trial; patients for whom a visit was judged ‘essential’ were enrolled into a cohort study. Setting: Stroke rehabilitation unit of teaching hospital. Participants: One hundred and twenty-six participants hospitalized following recent stroke. Interventions: Predischarge home visit or structured, hospital-based interview. Main outcome measures: The primary objective was to collect information on the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial, including eligibility, control intervention and outcome assessments. The primary outcome measure was the Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale at one month after discharge from hospital. Secondary outcomes included mood, quality of life and costs at one week and one month following discharge. Results: Ninety-three people were allocated to the randomized controlled trial; 47 were randomized to intervention and 46 to control. Thirty-three were enrolled into the cohort study. More people were allocated to the randomized controlled trial as the study progressed. One hundred and thirteen people (90%) received the proposed intervention, although there was a need for stricter protocol adherence. Follow-up was good: at one month 114 (90%) were assessed. There were no significant differences between the groups in the randomized controlled trial for the primary outcome measure at one month. The average cost of a home visit was £208. Conclusion: A trial is feasible and warranted given the resource implications of predischarge occupational therapy home visits.
Return to Sports Activity After Tibial Plateau Fractures
Authors: Kraus Tobias M. , Martetschläger Frank , Müller Dirk , Braun Karl F. , Ahrens Philipp , Siebenlist Sebastian , Stöckle Ulrich , Sandmann Gunther H. 
Published: November 2012

Background: Tibial plateau fractures requiring surgery are severe injuries. For professionals, amateurs, and recreational athletes, tibial plateau fractures might affect leisure and professional life. Hypothesis: Athletic patients will be affected in their sporting activity after a tibial plateau fracture. Despite a long rehabilitation time and program, physical activity will change to low-impact sports. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A total of 89 consecutive patients (age range, 14-76 years) were included in the study and were surveyed by a questionnaire. Inclusion criteria were surgical treatment of tibial plateau fractures between 2003 and 2009 with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. The sporting activity was determined at the time of injury, 1 year postoperatively, and at the time of the survey at an average of 52.8 months postoperatively. The clinical evaluation included the Lysholm score, the Tegner activity scale, the activity rating scale (ARS), and a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain perception. Fractures were classified and analyzed using both the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) and the Schatzker classifications. Results: At the time of injury, 88.8% of all patients were engaged in sports compared with 62.9% 1 year postoperatively and 73.0% at the time of the survey. Of the professional or competitive athletes (n = 11 at the time of injury), only 2 returned to competition at the time of the survey. The number of different sporting activities declined from 4.9 at the time of injury to 3.6 at the time of the survey ( P < .001). The sports frequency and the activity duration per week, being 2.8 sessions and 4.5 hours at the time of injury, respectively, declined to 2.4 sessions and 3.8 hours ( P < .001 and P = .007, respectively) at the time of the survey, respectively. The Lysholm score (98.7 points before accident) and the VAS for pain perception (0.2 before accident) illustrated significant declines to 76.6 points for the Lysholm score and 2.6 for the VAS ( P < .001 and P < .001, respectively) at the time of the survey. The high-energy traumas, Schatzker IV to VI, had significant worse results in the clinical scores compared with the low-energy traumas (Lysholm, P < .001; Tegner, P = .027). Conclusion: The majority of patients could not return to their previous level of activity, and for patients playing competitive sports, this injury can be a career ender. Overall, we noticed a postinjury shift toward activities with less impact. However, at the time of the survey, 73% of all patients were engaged in sports.
The Contribution of Heart Failure to Sleep Disturbances and Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults
Authors: Johansson Peter , Riegel Barbara , Svensson Erland , Broström Anders , Alehagen Urban , Dahlström Ulf , Jaarsma Tiny 
Published: November 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the associations between physical symptoms, sleep disturbances, and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling elderly individuals, comparing persons with and without heart failure (HF). Methods: A total of 613 older adults (mean age 78 years) underwent clinical and echocardiographic examinations. Questionnaires were used to evaluate sleep disturbances and depressive symptoms. A model was developed in those with HF (n = 107) and compared with those without HF (n = 506). Results: Cardiopulmonary symptoms (ie, dyspnea and nighttime palpitations) and pain had significant direct associations with sleep disturbances, which indirectly affected depressive symptoms. The model was essentially the same in those with and without HF except that the effect of sleep disturbances on depressive symptoms was stronger in those with HF (β = 0.64 vs β = 0.45, P = .006). Conclusion: In community-dwelling older adults, regardless of their diagnosis, physical symptoms had a direct effect on sleep disturbances and an indirect effect on depressive symptoms.
Comparative study on polyimides derived from isomeric diphenylsulfonetetracarboxylic dianhydrides
Authors: Pei Xueliang , Chen Guofei , Hou Yijia , Fang Xingzhong 
Published: November 2012

In this study, three diphenylsulfonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (DSDA) isomers namely 2,2′,3,3′-DSDA (3,3′-DSDA), 2,3,3′,4′-DSDA (3,4′-DSDA) and 3,3′,4,4′-DSDA (4,4′-DSDA) were prepared from the corresponding diphenylthioethertetracarboxylic dianhydride isomers. Based on the three DSDA isomers, a series of isomeric polyimides were prepared. The properties, such as film-forming ability, solubility, wide-angle x-ray diffraction, thermal and mechanical properties as well as rheological behavior, were compared among the isomeric polyimides. It was found that 4,4′-DSDA-based polyimides had much better film-forming ability than 3,3′-DSDA- and 3,4′-DSDA-based polyimides. 3,4′-DSDA-based polyimides had better solubility than 3,3′-DSDA- and 4,4′-DSDA-based polyimides. Furthermore, for a given diamine, the glass transition temperatures of the polyimides from the three DSDA isomers decreased in the order of 3,3′-DSDA > 3,4′-DSDA > 4,4′-DSDA, while the 5% weight loss temperatures in both air and nitrogen atmospheres of the polyimides mainly increased in the order of 3,3′-DSDA < 3,4′-DSDA < 4,4′-DSDA. Moreover, 3,4′-DSDA- and 4,4′-DSDA-based polyimides showed much better melt stability than 3,3′-DSDA-based polyimide.
The Dynamics of Electricity Consumption and Growth Nexus: Empirical Evidence from Three Developing Regions
Authors: Das Anupam , Chowdhury Murshed , Khan Syeed 
Published: November 2012

In this article, a panel of 45 developing countries for the 1971–2009 period is used to investigate the dynamic relationship between electricity consumption and economic growth. We employ the system generalised method of moments (system GMMs) approach proposed by Blundell and Bond (1998), which is an information-efficient means of obtaining consistent coefficient estimates. Our result suggests a positive relationship between electricity consumption and economic growth when the full panel is estimated. Regional analysis suggests a positive growth–electricity nexus for Asia and the Pacific and the sub-Saharan African region, although the size and significance levels are different. We do not find any statistically significant relationship between electricity consumption and economic growth in Latin America and the Caribbean. JEL Classification: Q43, O13, O44, C23
Efficiency and Productivity Growth in Indian Banking
Authors: Rajan S. S. , Pandit V. 
Published: November 2012

This article attempts to examine technical efficiency and productivity performance of Indian scheduled commercial banks, for the period 1979–2008. We model a multiple output/multiple input technology production frontier using semi-parametric estimation methods. The endogeneity of multiple outputs is addressed by semi-parametric estimates in part by introducing multivariate kernel estimators for the joint distribution of the multiple outputs and correlated random effects. Output is measured as the rupee value of total loans and total investments at the end of the year. The estimates provide robust inferences about the productivity and efficiency gains due to economic reforms. JEL Classification: E23, G21, D24
“Creating Futures” in Papua New Guinea: just the beginning
Authors: Hunter Ernest 
Published: November 2012

Objectives: “Creating Futures 2012: PNG” was the largest mental health conference to date in Melanesia. This paper describes the history, purpose and content of this initiative as a means to facilitate capacity building in Papua New Guinea (PNG), increase binational cooperation and develop a regional mental health network. Conclusions: Fifty Australian professionals were recruited to work with PNG colleagues to develop a suite of 20 workshops on locally identified themes. Over 300 delegates from across PNG and the western Pacific attended the four-day meeting, which was framed by Professor Vikram Patel in a series of presentations on global health. Feedback from PNG delegates and potential ongoing activities are described.
Rounding rituximab dose to nearest vial size
Authors: Patel Samit , Le Ann 
Published: November 2012

Purpose: To determine the feasibility of dose-rounding rituximab by looking at the potential deviation from the prescribed dose to the dose rounded to the nearest vial size. Methods: This study is a retrospective chart review of all rituximab orders prescribed for hematologic or oncologic indications over a period of 24 months. The feasibility of dose-rounding rituximab to the nearest vial size was evaluated by looking at the potential deviation of the prescribed dose to the rounded dose. Physician opinion towards dose rounding rituximab was assessed through a survey. Results: From October 2008 through September 2010, 2028 orders of rituximab were prescribed and processed. Ninety-nine percent of all rituximab doses fell within 10% dose deviation if rounded to the nearest 100-mg vial size and 66.1% of all rituximab orders fell within 5% dose deviation. All responding physicians were comfortable with at least a 5% dose deviation, projecting a yearly savings of approximately US$37,000 through rounding down and capturing additional cost of approximately US$43,000 through rounding up. Conclusion: The projected savings of dose-rounding rituximab to the nearest vial size resulted in both substantial financial savings and reduced unnecessary wastage of unused drug.
Co-occurrence of two cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in a natalizumab “infusion group”
Authors: Havla J , Berthele A , Kümpfel T , Krumbholz M , Jochim A , Kronsbein H , Ryschkewitsch C , Jensen P , Lippmann K , Hemmer B , Major E , Hohlfeld R 
Published: November 2012

We observed two cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) that occurred in the same “infusion group”. The group consisted of four patients with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) who had been treated with natalizumab (NAT) in the same medical practice for more than four years at the same times and in the same room, raising concerns about viral transmission between members of the infusion group. DNA amplification and sequence comparison of the non-coding control region (NCCR) of JC virus (JCV) present in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from PML patients #1 and #2 revealed that the amplified JCV sequences differed from the JCV archetype. The NCRR of the viral DNA was unique to each patient, arguing against the possibility of viral transmission between patients. Statistical considerations predict that similar co-occurrences of PML are likely to happen in the future.
Aliskiren, at low doses, reduces the electrical remodeling in the heart of the TGR(mRen2)27 rat independently of blood pressure
Authors: De Mello Walmor , Rivera Marielis , Rabell Andres , Gerena Yamil 
Published: November 2012

Methods: The influence of chronic administration of low doses of aliskiren (5 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for a period of eight weeks on cardiac electrophysiological and structural remodeling was investigated in transgenic (TGR)(mRen-2)27 rats. Cardiac and plasma angiotensin II (Ang II) levels were determined by ELISA before and after administration of the drug. Moreover, histological, electrophysiological and echocardiographic studies were performed in controls and at the end of eight weeks of aliskiren administration. Results: 1) The cardiac Ang II levels were significantly reduced while the plasma Ang II levels were not significantly decreased in rats treated with low doses of aliskiren; 2) echocardographic studies showed a decrease of left ventricle diameter (LVD), left ventricle posterior wall thickness (LVPW), left ventricle end diastolic volume (LVEDV) and increased ejection fraction (EF); 3) aliskiren improved the impulse propagation, increased the cardiac refractoriness and reduced the incidence of triggered activity; 4) perivascular and interstitial fibrosis were greatly reduced, which explains the increase in conduction velocity. All these effects of aliskiren were found independently of blood pressure, suggesting that the beneficial effect of aliskiren was related to an inhibition of the local cardiac renin angiotensin system; and 5) the effect of mechanical stretch on action potential duration, conduction velocity and spontaneous rhythmicity was changed by aliskiren, supporting the hypothesis presented here that the beneficial effect of the drug on cardiac remodeling is related to a decreased sensitivity of cardiac muscle to mechanical stress.
Screening for primary aldosteronism in a primary care unit
Authors: Volpe Cristina , Wahrenberg Hans , Hamberger Bertil , Thorén Marja 
Published: November 2012

Objective: Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a common cause of secondary hypertension but the reported prevalence varies. Few studies have been carried out in primary care. We investigated the prevalence of PA by screening with the aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR). Design and methods: Patients with hypertension were recruited from a primary care unit and investigated in a university hospital setting. Of 235 patients asked to participate 77% accepted. Antihypertensive medication apart from amiloride and spironolactone was maintained. The cut-off level for a positive ARR was lower than in clinical practice (> 50 pmol/ng with aldosterone > 350 pmol/l) to adjust for any suppressive effects of medication. A positive ARR was followed by a confirmatory evaluation. Results: The frequency of confirmed PA was 1.6% and including cases with a positive ARR who refused further investigation it would be 3.3% at most. In primary hypertension angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and thiazide diuretics markedly suppressed the ARR by increasing renin levels. Conclusion: The detection rate of PA in our study is in the lower part of the wide range shown in previous studies. Larger population studies are needed to establish the true prevalence in primary care. Future studies may clarify if the present cut-off levels allow detection of very mild PA.
Effects of elevated perfusion pressure and pulsatile flow on human saphenous veins isolated from diabetic and non-diabetic patients
Authors: Rosique Marina JF , Rosique Rodrigo G , Tirapelli Luis F , Joviliano Edwaldo E , Dalio Marcelo B , Bassetto Solange , Rodrigues Alfredo J , Evora Paulo RB 
Published: November 2012

Objective: This study was carried out to determine high pressure and pulsatile flow perfusion effects on human saphenous vein (HSV) segments obtained from diabetic and non-diabetic patients. Methods: The veins were perfused with oxygenated Krebs solution for 3 h, with a pulsatile flow rate of 100 mL/min and pressures of 250 × 200 or 300 × 250 mmHg. After perfusion, veins were studied by light microscopy; nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms, CD34 and nitrotyrosine immunohistochemistry and tissue nitrite/nitrate (NOx) and malondialdehyde (MDA) quantification. Results: Light microscopy revealed endothelial denuding areas in all HSV segments subjected to 300 × 250 mmHg perfusion pressure, but the luminal area was similar. The percentage of luminal perimeter covered by endothelium decreased as perfusion pressures increased, and significant differences were observed between groups. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) isoform immunostaining decreased significantly in diabetic patients’ veins independent of the perfusion pressure levels. The inducible NOS (iNOS), neuronal NOS (nNOS) and nitrotyrosine immunostaining were similar. Significant CD34 differences were observed between the diabetic 300 × 250 mmHg perfusion pressure group and the non-diabetic control group. Tissue nitrite/nitrate and MDA were not different among groups. Conclusions: Pulsatile flow and elevated pressures for 3 h caused morphological changes and decreased the eNOS expression in the diabetic patients’ veins.
Clock Drawing Test in Elderly Individuals With Different Education Levels
Authors: Cecato Juliana Francisca , Fiorese Bruna , Montiel José Maria , Bartholomeu Daniel , Martinelli José Eduardo 
Published: November 2012

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the performance in Clock Drawing Test (CDT) of the elderly individuals assessed in a geriatric clinic, with at least 1 year of schooling, comparing with other groups with higher education and with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) levels. The study also aims to correlate the results of CDT and other used diagnostic tests for dementia by CDR levels, providing additional validity evidence to the CDT. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 426 elderly individuals, >60 years old and at least 1 year of education. All participants searched for medical assistance at Geriatric and Gerontology Ambulatory of Jundiaí city, in Brazil. The community-dwelling outpatients previously undergone a detailed clinical examination and neuropsychological evaluation: Cambrigde Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), andCDT. To differentiate data from diagnostic groups based on CDR, it Kruskal-Wallis test was used. Pearson statistics were calculated to compare data from CDT and CDR. The statistical analyses were 2-tailed and were considered significant when P < .05. Results: Regarding CDT, groups with more years of schooling showed similar means in CDR = 0 and CDR = 0.5 and in CDR = 1 and CDR = 2. Shulman and Sunderland scale were high score in groups with more years of education and above of cutoff points in all CDT score. On the contrary, in Mendez scale we did not observed similar means. Otherwise, in the group with less years of schooling greater means differences in the CDT were observed. Conclusion: The CDT did not show a strong correlation with MMSE and CAMCOG, both important instruments in Brazilian population to investigate dementia. For elderly individuals with high education levels, the CDT did not seem to be a good test to detect cognitive impairment.