bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Use of locally made off‐loading techniques for diabetic plantar foot ulcer in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Miyan Zahid , Ahmed Jameel , Zaidi Syed I , Ahmedani Muhammad Y , Fawwad Asher , Basit Abdul 
Published: February 2013

AbstractThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of applying locally made pressure off‐loading techniques on plantar foot ulcer in individuals with diabetes. This prospective study of 70 diabetic patients was conducted at the foot clinic of Baqai Institute of Diabetology & Endocrinology. Plantar foot ulcer, stages 1A and 2A according to the University of Texas classification, was treated by using three off‐loading techniques: modified foot wear (sandal), modified plaster of Paris cast with plywood platform and Scotchcast boot. The outcome was assessed at either complete wound healing (defined as complete epithelialisation) or at 12 weeks, whichever came first. Of the 70 patients, 24 were in modified foot wear group, 23 in modified plaster of Paris cast and 23 in Scotchcast boot group. There was almost equal proportion of patients healed within 12 weeks period treated with these three off‐loading techniques, i.e. 22 (95·7%) for modified foot wear group, 19 (95%) for modified plaster cast and 18 (94·7%) for Scotchcast boot group. No significant difference was observed in median healing time and cumulative wound survival at 12 weeks in the three off‐loading techniques. Modified foot wear group was the most cost effective ($7) amongst the three off‐loading techniques. It is concluded that in this cohort, no significant difference in healing time was observed in the three off‐loading techniques, although modified foot wear (sandal) was found to be a more cost‐effective treatment modality.
Inflammation and prostate carcinogenesis
Authors: Nakai Yasutomo , Nonomura Norio 
Published: February 2013

AbstractQuite a few epidemiological studies including meta‐analyses indicate that prostate inflammation is associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. The cause of inflammation in the prostate is speculated to be several microorganisms that cause prostatitis or sexually transmitted infections. Other specific microorganisms, such as xenotropic murine leukemia virus‐related virus, are also reported to relate to the development of prostate cancer; however, the contribution of this microorganism to prostate cancer development needs to be carefully interpreted. Environmental factors, especially dietary factors, might also be associated with prostate cancer development. Among related dietary factors, charred meat carcinogen 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine might be a link between environmental factors and inflammation, because 2‐amino‐1‐methyl‐6‐phenylimidazo[4,5‐b]pyridine has the potential to accelerate prostate inflammation through its estrogenic effect. In light of these findings, preventing or reducing prostate inflammation might be one strategy for chemoprevention of prostate cancer.
Your Life Chances Affect Where You Live: A Critique of the ‘Cottage Industry’ of Neighbourhood Effects Research
Authors: Slater Tom 
Published: February 2013

AbstractThis article advances a critique of the ‘neighbourhood effects’ genre in urban studies, by arguing that an acceptance of the ‘where you live affects your life chances’ thesis, however well‐intentioned, misses the key structural question of why people live where they do in cities. By examining the structural factors that give rise to differential life chances and the inequalities they produce, and by inverting the neighbourhood effects thesis to: your life chances affect where you live, the problem becomes one of understanding life chances via a theory of capital accumulation and class struggle in cities. Such a theory provides an understanding of the injustices inherent in letting the market (buttressed by the state) be the force that determines the cost of housing and therefore being the major determinant of where people live. The article draws on Marxist urban theory to contend that the residential mobility programs advocated by neighbourhood effects proponents stand on shaky ground, for if it is true that ‘neighbourhood effects’ exceed what would be predicted by poverty alone, moving the poor to a richer place would only eliminate that incremental difference, without addressing the capitalist institutional arrangements that create poverty.
Effects of Chronic Khat Use on Cardiovascular, Adrenocortical, and Psychological Responses to Stress in Men and Women
Authors: al'Absi Mustafa , Khalil Najat Sayem , Al Habori Molham , Hoffman Richard , Fujiwara Koji , Wittmers Lorentz 
Published: February 2013

BackgroundKhat is a psychostimulant plant widely used in Africa and its use has been growing rapidly in Europe and North America.ObjectivesWe investigated effects of chronic khat (Catha edulis) use on cardiovascular, adrenocortical, and psychological responses to acute stress.MethodsChronic khat users and nonusers were compared on physiological measures and mood reports in a cross‐sectional, mixed design. Measurements were conducted during 24‐hour ambulatory monitoring and during a laboratory session. A total of 152 participants (58 women) were recruited by flyers posted around Sana'a University campus and the surrounding community in Sana'a, Yemen. Salivary cortisol and self‐report measures were collected during a 24‐hour ambulatory period prior to a lab testing session. In addition, blood pressures (BP), salivary cortisol, and mood measures were assessed during rest and in response to acute mental stress.ResultsKhat users exhibited enhanced evening and attenuated morning cortisol levels, reflecting a blunted diurnal pattern of adrenocortical activity compared to nonusers. Khat users reported greater negative affect during the ambulatory period and during the laboratory session. In addition, they exhibited attenuated BP responses to stress.Conclusions and Scientific SignificanceThese novel results demonstrate altered adrenocortical activity and increased dysphoric mood among khat users. The extent to which these associations are due to effects of chronic khat use per se or instead reflect predisposing risk factors for khat use is yet to be determined. (Am J Addict 2013;22:99‐107)
A Novel Approach to Informing the Public about the Risks of Overdose and Nonmedical Use of Prescription Medications
Authors: Doyon Suzanne , Klein‐Schwartz Wendy , Anderson Bruce A. , Welsh Christopher 
Published: February 2013

BackgroundPoison centers answer telephone calls from persons requesting identification of tablets. Many of these calls are from people for whom the tablets were not prescribed and potentially represent nonmedical use. Implementation of a telephone‐based program of overdose prevention and screening for nonmedical use of prescription medications is examined.MethodsSocial workers with experience in substance abuse disorders were hired by a poison center to answer telephone calls from persons asking for tablet identification. The social workers asked questions regarding demographics, provided the ingredients, provided overdose prevention/safety information, and offered referral to treatment to callers who desired it.ResultsA total of 17,616 tablet identification calls from the public were answered by the social workers during the 20‐month study period. Most callers were Caucasian with median age 33 years (range 18–93 years). Overdose prevention/safety information, aimed mostly at reducing polydrug use, was delivered to 6,635 (37.7%) callers.ConclusionsTreatment resource information was provided to 3,775 (21.4%) callers. A telephone‐based service made up of social workers interacted with several thousand individuals potentially at risk for adverse outcomes from nonmedical use of prescription medications and delivered overdose/safety information. Although further study is needed, this type of service can complement existing state/community efforts aimed at education regarding the nonmedical use of prescription medications. (Am J Addict 2013;22:108‐112)
The Role of Diazepam Loading for the Treatment of Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Muzyk Andrew J. , Leung Jonathan G. , Nelson Sarah , Embury Eric R. , Jones Sharon R. 
Published: February 2013

BackgroundAlcohol withdrawal accounts for a significant amount of hospital admissions and can quickly progress to the development of delirium tremens (DTs), seizures, and death. Rapid identification and management of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is vital and can be managed with a number of different treatment strategies. Diazepam loading is a treatment strategy that utilizes the pharmacokinetics of this agent to achieve a rapid reduction in symptoms followed by sustained benefit over a period of days.ObjectiveThe purpose of this review is to evaluate the role of diazepam loading for AWS.MethodsA literature search of four databases—Pubmed, PsychInfo, Biosis, and Embase—was conducted to identify publications between 1960 and August 2011 that described the use of diazepam loading for the treatment of AWS. Eight trials, both open‐label and controlled trials were identified. Only four randomized controlled‐trials (RCTs) have been published and they are reviewed in this paper.ResultsIncluded trials of hospitalized inpatients found that diazepam loading provided rapid symptom relief as well as reduced the incidence of seizures and duration of DTs. In patients diagnosed with severe DTs, rapidly administered doses of diazepam produced a quick calming effect. While no adverse events resulting from diazepam loading were noted, no formal assessment tool was used to evaluate its safety. Larger randomized controlled‐trials are needed to better evaluate safety outcomes.ConclusionsDiazepam loading is an effective treatment option for hospitalized patients experiencing AWS. Diazepam loading uses the concept of symptom‐triggered therapy, a mainstay of current AWS treatment, while exploiting its prolonged elimination half‐life and eliminating the need for additional pharmacologic therapy. Studies reviewed found diazepam loading significantly improved a number of important outcomes in AWS, including time in DTs, compared to traditional treatment strategies. (Am J Addict 2013;22:113‐118)
Alcohol Use among Recent Latino Immigrants Before and After Immigration to the United States
Authors: De La Rosa Mario , Dillon Frank R. , Sastre Francisco , Babino Rosa 
Published: February 2013

BackgroundUS‐born Latinos have higher rates of alcohol use than Latinos who have immigrated to the United States. However, little is known about the pre‐immigration drinking patterns of Latino immigrants or about the changes in their drinking behaviors in the 2 years post‐immigration.ObjectivesThis article reports findings of a longitudinal study that compared rates of regular, binge, and heavy drinking among a cohort of recent Latino immigrants, ages 18–34, prior to immigration to the United States and in the 2 years post‐immigration.MethodsBaseline data were collected on the drinking patterns of 405 Latino immigrants living in the United States for 12 months or less. A follow‐up assessment occurred during their second year in the United States.ResultsFindings indicate that number of days of drinking declined significantly post‐immigration. Binge alcohol use (five or more drinks on the same occasion during the past 90 days) significantly declined during the post‐immigration period. Heavy alcohol use (five or more drinks on the same occasion on five or more days during the past 90 days) also significantly decreased.ConclusionsResults suggest a need for continued exploration of pre‐immigration drinking patterns and research to uncover underlying factors associated with declines in rates of problematic alcohol use among recent Latino immigrants.Scientific SignificanceThe results of this study can aid in furthering our understanding of the alcohol use of Latino immigrants ages 18–34 prior to and post immigration to the United States to guide future research and the development of culturally tailored clinical interventions. (Am J Addict 2013;22:162‐168)
Spontaneous Development of IgM Anti‐Cocaine Antibodies in Habitual Cocaine Users: Effect on IgG Antibody Responses to a Cocaine Cholera Toxin B Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Orson Frank M. , Rossen Roger D. , Shen Xiaoyun , Lopez Angel Y. , Wu Yan , Kosten Thomas R. 
Published: February 2013

Background and ObjectivesIn cocaine vaccine studies, only a minority of subjects made strong antibody responses. To investigate this issue, IgG and IgM antibody responses to cocaine and to cholera toxin B (CTB—the carrier protein used to enhance immune responses to cocaine) were measured in sera from the 55 actively vaccinated subjects in a Phase IIb randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial (TA‐CD 109).MethodsIsotype specific ELISAs were used to measure IgG and IgM anti‐cocaine and anti‐CTB antibody in serial samples collected prior to and at intervals after immunization. We assessed IgG anti‐cocaine responses of patients with pre‐vaccination IgM anti‐cocaine antibodies. Competitive inhibition ELISA was used to evaluate antibody specificity.Results and ConclusionsBefore immunization, 36/55 subjects had detectable IgM antibodies to cocaine, and 9 had IgM levels above the 95% confidence limit of 11 μg/ml. These nine had significantly reduced peak IgG anti‐cocaine responses at 16 weeks, and all were below the concentration (40 μg/ml) considered necessary to discourage recreational cocaine use. The IgG anti‐CTB responses of these same subjects were also reduced.Scientific SignificanceSubjects who develop an IgM antibody response to cocaine in the course of repeated recreational exposure to this drug are significantly less likely to produce high levels of IgG antibodies from the cocaine conjugate vaccine. The failure may be due to recreational cocaine exposure induction of a type 2 T‐cell independent immune response. Such individuals will require improved vaccines and are poor candidates for the currently available vaccine. (Am J Addict 2013;22:169‐174)
Brief Motivational Feedback May Enhance Treatment Entry in Veterans with Comorbid Substance Use and Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Lozano Brian E. , LaRowe Steven D. , Smith Joshua P. , Tuerk Peter , Roitzsch John 
Published: February 2013

Background and ObjectivesThere are limited investigations of brief interventions to facilitate treatment entry among individuals with substance use disorders. This study investigated the effectiveness of brief motivational feedback (BMF) for increasing entry into intensive substance abuse treatment in veteran patients.MethodsVeteran patients (N = 84) with substance use disorders referred for an intake assessment in a substance abuse specialty clinic received either (i) intake assessment plus BMF or (ii) intake assessment as usual (AAU). BMF consisted of brief motivational enhancement feedback pertaining to estimates of alcohol and drug consumption, money spent on drugs and alcohol, and self‐reported problems due to substance abuse. Primary outcome was entry in treatment groups in an intensive outpatient program for substance abuse.ResultsPatients in BMF and AAU conditions did not significantly differ on indices of treatment entry. However, among patients with comorbid substance dependence and psychiatric disorders, those who received BMF were significantly more likely to enter outpatient treatment groups.Conclusions and Scientific SignificanceThe addition of motivational feedback to a standard intake assessment enhanced substance abuse treatment entry among veteran patients with comorbid substance use disorders and psychiatric disorders. These preliminary findings extend the use of motivational feedback to facilitate entry into substance abuse treatment among veteran patients with comorbid substance use and psychiatric disorders. Furthermore, they suggest opportunity for more effective patient‐treatment matching based on initial motivation and other individual factors such as psychiatric comorbidity. (Am J Addict 2013;22:132‐135)
Endothelin‐1 Acutely Reduces the Permeability of Visceral Sheep Peritoneum In Vitro Through Both Endothelin‐A and Endothelin‐B Receptors
Authors: Kourti Panagiota , Zarogiannis Sotirios G. , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Karioti Aggeliki , Eleftheriadis Theodoros , Hatzoglou Chrissi , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos , Molyvdas Paschalis‐Adam , Stefanidis Ioannis 
Published: February 2013

AbstractMesothelium is an important part of the peritoneal barrier for water and ion transport, essential for effective peritoneal dialysis (PD). Peritoneal fibrosis has been associated with PD treatment failure. Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is a potent vasoactive peptide, involved in pathologic fibrotic processes. Its action is mediated mainly by endothelin type A (ETA) and type B (ETB) receptors. The aim of this study was to investigate, by Ussing chamber experiments, the effect of ET‐1 on the transmesothelial electrical resistance (RTM) of the isolated visceral sheep peritoneum. Intact sheets of visceral peritoneum were obtained from 40 adult sheep and mounted in Ussing‐type chambers. ET‐1 (10−7 M), BQ‐123 (ETA receptor antagonist; 10−6 M), BQ‐788 (ETB receptor antagonist; 10−6 M), and their combinations were added on the apical and the basolateral side of the peritoneum. RTM was measured before and serially after addition of the substances, and changes were registered as percentage (ΔRTM %). RTM increased within 1 min after addition of ET‐1 apically (ΔRTM 65.03 ± 15.87%; P < 0.05) or basolaterally (ΔRTM 85.5 ± 20.86%; P < 0.05). BQ‐123 and BQ‐788 and their combination significantly reduced (P < 0.05) the effect of ET‐1 to a similar degree in all cases. These results clearly indicate that ET‐1 reduces ionic permeability of the visceral sheep peritoneum in vitro. Additionally, it is obvious that this inhibitory effect is mediated through both ETA and ETB receptors.
Effect of Screw Insertion Torque on Push‐Out and Cantilever Bending Properties of Five Different Angle‐Stable Systems
Authors: Boero Baroncelli Alessandro , Reif Ulrich , Bignardi Cristina , Peirone Bruno 
Published: February 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the screw push‐out strength and resistance to cantilever bending of 5 different angle‐stable systems using 4 different insertion torque values to tighten locking screws.Study DesignIn vitro mechanical testing of 5 screw‐plate constructs.Sample PopulationScrew plate constructs (n = 60) were tested; 12 of each design, 3 for each torque value.MethodsTo compare push‐out strength, screws were loaded in axial direction on the screw tip until loosening of the locking mechanism was recorded. For cantilever bending test, screws were loaded perpendicularly to their longitudinal axis at 2 mm of distance from the under surface of the plate. Load was applied in displacement control at 1 mm/min.ResultsThere was a significant difference between the 5 different angle‐stable systems regarding both push‐out and cantilever bending strength. There was an influence of insertion torque value on push‐out strength for 2 systems and insertion torque value influenced cantilever bending behavior only in 1 locking system.ConclusionsLocking mechanisms using “thread in thread” principle provided a stronger screw push‐out behavior. Screws materials and core diameter of the different screws were directly related to cantilever bending strength.
Comparison of Two Surgical Site Protocols for Cattle in a Field Setting
Authors: Bourel Clara , Buczinski Sébastien , Desrochers André , Harvey Denis 
Published: February 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo compare 2 preoperative surgical site protocols for standing laparotomy in cattle in a field setting.Study DesignCohort study.AnimalsDairy cows (n = 73) undergoing a clean standing laparotomy (no visceral perforation during surgery).MethodsCows were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 preoperative skin‐preparations protocols with chlorhexidine used as an antiseptic. A standard protocol (3 minutes [min] cleansing scrub, tap water rinse, 3 minutes surgical scrub with a sterile one‐use chlorhexidine scrub and alternate passage of alcohol and 2% chlorhexidine solution (7 minutes; n = 32) was compared with a 3 minutes abbreviated preoperative protocol, consisting of two 90 seconds period of cleansing scrub and 3 passages of 0.5% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% in isopropyl alcohol solution (4 minutes; n = 32). Pre‐ and postoperative skin bacterial counts and clinical assessment of wounds 10–15 days after surgery, as well as standardized interview with the producers focused on wound infection 30 days after the surgery were used to compare both protocols.ResultsThere was no difference between protocols for absolute colony forming units (CFU) and percentage CFU reduction perioperatively as well as for surgical wound clinical score 10–15 days after the surgery. The infection rate at 30 days was 10.5% (6/57) but no significant difference was observed between protocols 10% (3/30) versus 11.5% (3/27).ConclusionsAn abbreviated preoperative protocol using nonsterile reusable material can be as effective as a standard protocol using sterile one‐use brush in reducing skin microflora and preventing surgical wound infection.
In Vivo Assessment of Absorbable Knotless Barbed Suture for Single Layer Gastrotomy and Enterotomy Closure
Authors: Ehrhart Nicole P. , Kaminskaya Kristina , Miller Jeffrey A. , Zaruby Jeff F. 
Published: February 2013

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the performance of an absorbable barbed suture device to absorbable monofilament suture after single layer, appositional gastrotomy and enterotomy closure.Study DesignExperimental comparative study.AnimalsPurpose‐bred adult mongrel hounds (n = 14).MethodsBursting strengths up to 250 mmHg of incisional closure with either monofilament or barbed suture in a simple continuous, appositional pattern at sites in the stomach (2), jejunum (4), and colon (4) were compared at postoperative Days 3, 7, and 14. Time for incisional closure was compared between materials.ResultsBursting strength was not significantly different between gastrotomies/enterotomies closed with the monofilament suture or the barbed device. Closure time was significantly reduced with the barbed device in jejunal enterotomy closure.ConclusionThe barbed device compared favorably with monofilament suture for gastrotomy and enterotomy (small intestine, colon) closure. Results demonstrate comparable burst strengths between monofilament suture and the barbed device. Closure time was significantly reduced in jejunum closure using the barbed device.