bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Irreversible Damage in Ovine Ovarian Tissue after Cryopreservation in Propanediol: Analyses after In Vitro Culture and Xenotransplantation
Authors: Oskam IC , Lund T , Santos RR 
Published: January 2011

ContentsCurrent progress in cancer treatment has increased the incidence of long‐term patient survival. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OT) is still the most promising fertility saving method offered to young female patients with cancer prior to the onset of radio‐chemotherapy. Further follicular development of immature primordial follicles depends on transplantation or in vitro culture (IVC). Aim of this study was to evaluate the appropriateness of cryopreserved ovine OT with 1,2‐propanediol (PROH) after short‐term IVC and xenotransplantation (XT). Ovarian tissue fragments from young adult sheep were cryopreserved using a standard slow‐freezing protocol with 1.5 m PROH. Cryopreserved OT was assessed by light‐ and transmission electron microscopic analyses after thawing, IVC or XT in severe immunodeficient mice. Control OT showed the presence of healthy preantral follicles (Mean: 78.8%; SE 2.9%) and normal structure of the stromal tissue. After thawing and IVC over 80% of damaged primordial follicles and poor preservation of the stromal tissue was observed. After XT, OT demonstrated deficient follicles and huge areas of vacuolization in the stromal tissue confirmed by ultrastructural assessment. In conclusion, because of the irreversible character of the follicular and stromal damage of cryopreserved ovine ovarian tissue after IVC and XT, strong improvement of the utilized protocol is needed to be suitable for the preservation of ovine ovarian tissue. The deleterious effects of PROH do not imply its exclusion as cryoprotectant, but more research is needed for the development of less toxic cryoprotectant mixtures and toxicity neutralizers with attested cryoprotectant capacity for the safe and feasible freezing of human ovarian tissue.
In Vitro Maturation and Fertilization in the Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus) using Oocytes and Spermatozoa Recovered Post‐mortem from Animals that had Died because of Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak
Authors: Mahesh YU , Rao BS , Suman K , Lakshmikantan U , Charan KV , Gibence HRW , Shivaji S 
Published: January 2011

ContentsThe ability to rescue gametes from endangered or wildlife species and to subsequently produce viable embryos holds tremendous potential as a means to increase the population size of endangered or wildlife species. The objective of this study was to assess the developmental competence of gametes recovered from nilgai that had died because of foot and mouth disease outbreak. Oocytes collected from the ovaries of seven dead nilgais were allowed to mature in vitro and were tested for developmental potential by in vitro fertilization (IVF) with epididymal spermatozoa collected also post‐mortem. The average number of oocytes (n = 517) recovered per ovary was 36.9, and the side (right or left), size and weight of the ovaries had no significant effect on the number and quality of oocytes recovered. In vitro maturation studies indicated that the proportion of matured oocytes (MII stage) at 18, 24 and 30 h was 55.6%, 63.4% and 63.6%, respectively. Furthermore, 43% of the matured oocytes cleaved following in vitro fertilization and 12% of the cleaved oocytes (6/49) developed to the 4–8 cell stage. These findings suggest that the gametes recovered from nilgai post‐mortem could be utilized for in vitro production of embryos.
Effects of salinity on growth and on valve morphology of five estuarine diatoms
Authors: Trobajo Rosa , Rovira Laia , Mann David G. , Cox Eileen J. 
Published: January 2011

SUMMARYThe effects of salinity on the growth and valve morphology of five benthic estuarine diatoms (Nitzschia pusilla, N. frustulum, N. palea, N. filiformis var. conferta and Eolimna subminuscula), isolated from both freshwater and brackish/marine habitats, were investigated. The four Nitzschia strains grew well over a broad salinity range, though some (N. pusilla, N. frustulum) showed a broader salinity range tolerance (from fully saline down to at least 9.5 ppt) than others (N. palea, N. filiformis var. conferta had reduced growth at salinities of 16 ppt and above). Salinity significantly affected the valve morphology of the five strains studied. However, there was no consistent pattern in either the morphological characters affected or the direction of the effects. Although significant, the effects of salinity on valve morphology were very small and therefore it seems that the taxonomic usefulness of some of the classical taxonomical characters is not undermined.
Effects of fatigue on surgeon performance and surgical outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Sturm Lana , Dawson Drew , Vaughan Richard , Hewett Peter , Hill Andrew G. , Graham John C. , Maddern Guy J. 
Published: January 2011

AbstractBackground:  Sleep deprivation and disturbances in circadian rhythms generally lead to poor performance, but is there a link in surgery? This review aimed to determine whether fatigue has an impact on surgeon performance or surgical outcomes.Methods:  Studies were identified by searching EMBASE, CINAHL, PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Current Contents and clinical trials databases. Inclusion of relevant studies was by application of a predetermined protocol and independent assessment by two reviewers. Each included study was critically appraised for its study quality according to the methods used for Cochrane Reviews. Data from included studies were extracted by one researcher using standardized data extraction tables developed a priori and checked by a second researcher.Results:  From 823 potentially relevant studies, a total of 16 studies were included in this review: two randomized controlled trials, five non‐randomized comparative studies and nine case series. Of five studies that directly measure clinical performance, three studies reported no significant difference as a result of sleep deprivation, while two studies found increases in complications or errors. Eleven studies assessed psychomotor skill performance using a variety of simulation‐based methods when a participant was rested and/or fatigued. Two randomized controlled trials reported no significant differences, while the nine remaining studies reported mixed results. Surgical residents with less surgical training/experience appeared to be more affected than more senior residents.Conclusion:  There is little evidence, as yet, to inform the issue of the effect of fatigue on surgical performance.
Developing tools to predict outcomes following cardiovascular surgery
Authors: Boult Maggi , Fitzpatrick Kate , Barnes Mary , Maddern Guy , Fitridge Robert 
Published: January 2011

AbstractBackground:  Surgical decision‐making tools may help surgeons achieve better outcomes by providing more personally relevant information to patients. This paper describes approaches to developing statistical tools capable of estimating the probability of morbidity and mortality after cardiovascular surgery. Our aim is to inform surgeons about the important stages that contribute to the development of decision tools.Methods:  The key elements described include study design (data quality, cohort size, etc.) and statistical methodology for developing and testing decision tools. Mention is made of the delivery of decision tools, simplicity of use, ease of interpretation of results and accessibility. Information specific to cardiac and vascular surgery is included.Results:  Development of useful and effective decision tools is dependent on robust and reliable data, unambiguous outcome requirements and considerable statistical expertise. Decision tools must also be extensively tested for validity and reliability, both internally and with external data.Conclusion:  Understanding the development and assumptions that underlie surgical decision tool development will help cardiovascular surgeons appreciate the value of applying such techniques at a clinical level.
Introduction to the Australian consensus guidelines for the management of neutropenic fever in adult cancer patients, 2010/2011
Authors: Lingaratnam S. , Slavin M. A. , Koczwara B. , Seymour J. F. , Szer J. , Underhill C. , Prince M. , Mileshkin L. , O'Reilly M. , Kirsa S. W. , Bennett C. A. , Davis I. D. , Morrissey O. , Thursky K. A. 
Published: January 2011

AbstractThe current consensus guidelines were developed to standardize the clinical approach to the management of neutropenic fever in adult cancer patients throughout Australian treating centres. The three areas of clinical practice covered by the guidelines, the process for developing consensus opinion, and the system used to grade the evidence and relative strength of recommendations are described. The health economics implications of establishing clinical guidance are also discussed.
Use of risk stratification to guide ambulatory management of neutropenic fever
Authors: Worth L. J. , Lingaratnam S. , Taylor A. , Hayward A. M. , Morrissey S. , Cooney J. , Bastick P. A. , Eek R. W. , Wei A. , Thursky K. A. 
Published: January 2011

AbstractUtilization of risk‐stratification tools in the setting of neutropenic fever is currently limited by inadequate knowledge and lack of awareness. Within this context, the approach to management of low‐risk patients with neutropenic fever is inconsistent with the available evidence across many Australian treating centres. These clinical guidelines define and clarify an accepted standard of care for this patient group given the current evidence base. The Multinational Association for Supportive Care in Cancer risk index is presented as the preferred risk assessment tool for determining patient risk. Suitability of ambulatory care within specific patient populations is discussed, with defined eligibility criteria provided to guide clinical decision‐making. Detailed recommendations for implementing appropriate ambulatory strategies, such as early discharge and outpatient antibiotic therapy, are also provided. Due consideration is given to infrastructural requirements and other supportive measures at a resourcing and operational level. An analysis of the relevant health economics is also presented.
Use of empiric antimicrobial therapy in neutropenic fever
Authors: Tam C. S. , O'Reilly M. , Andresen D. , Lingaratnam S. , Kelly A. , Burbury K. , Turnidge J. , Slavin M. A. , Worth L. J. , Dawson L. , Thursky K. A. 
Published: January 2011

AbstractAdministration of empiric antimicrobial therapy is standard practice in the management of neutropenic fever, but there remains considerable debate about the selection of an optimal regimen. In view of emerging evidence regarding efficacy and toxicity differences between empiric treatment regimens, and strong evidence of heterogeneity in clinical practice, the current guidelines were developed to provide Australian clinicians with comprehensive guidance for selecting an appropriate empiric strategy in the setting of neutropenic fever. Beta‐lactam monotherapy is presented as the treatment of choice for all clinically stable patients while early treatment with combination antibiotic therapy is considered for patients at higher risk. Due consideration is given to the appropriate use of glycopeptides in this setting. Several clinical caveats, accounting for institution‐ and patient‐specific risk factors, are provided to help guide the judicious use of the agents described. Detailed recommendations are also provided regarding time to first dose, timing of blood cultures, selection of a first‐line antibiotic regimen, subsequent modification of antibiotic choice and cessation of therapy.
The disease and economic burden of neutropenic fever in adult patients in Australian cancer treatment centres 2008: analysis of the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset
Authors: Lingaratnam S. , Thursky K. A. , Slavin M. A. , Kirsa S. W. , Bennett C. A. , Worth L. J. 
Published: January 2011

AbstractBackground:  Although the incidence of neutropenic fever (FN) is estimated to be up to 80% for some malignancies, the epidemiological characteristics and economic burden are not well understood for Australian patients.Aims:  To describe underlying malignant conditions, potential aetiologies, clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization for an Australian population with FN, and to estimate the economic burden of this condition within the Australian healthcare sector.Methods:  Epidemiological features of FN were extracted from a population‐based hospital morbidity dataset, the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset (VAED), for a 12‐month period (2008). These were analysed according for a range of malignancy categories. Economic burden of hospitalizations was estimated according to data presented in the Round 12 National Hospital Cost Data Collection Report.Results:  A total of 2599 admitted episodes across 92 Victorian hospitals fulfilled inclusion criteria for FN. Metropolitan hospitalizations accounted for 79% episodes. FN illness comprised underlying solid tumours diagnoses (40%), followed by leukaemia (29.3%), lymphoma (22%) and myeloma (8.5%). Length of hospital stay was >15 days for approximately one‐third of hospitalizations. intensive care unit admission rates were 5.9–11.7%. Weighted average costs of hospitalization (AUD) for solid tumours, lymphoma, myeloma and leukaemia were $8309 ± $391, 18 145 ± $1602, $21 764 ± $1289 and $22 596 ± $2618 respectively.Conclusions:  Using VAED indices, epidemiological features of Australian patients with FN appear comparable with international reports. In contrast to US data, estimated healthcare costs are up to 50% lower in the Australian healthcare sector. These data offer important insights for prioritizing of research agendas and resource allocation.
Causes of decreased activity of daily life in elderly patients who need daily living care
Authors: Yoshino Hiroshi , Sakurai Takashi , Hasegawa Kazuo , Yokono Koichi 
Published: January 2011

Aim:  The causes of decreased activity of daily life (ADL) in elderly patients include cerebrovascular diseases, bone fracture by falls, and dementia. The present study was conducted among elderly patients with decreased ADL who were hospitalized in nursing wards in order to investigate the causes of becoming early bedridden and to determine precautionary measures against decreased ADL.Methods:  The study subjects were 224 elderly patients with decreased ADL (mean age: 83.3 ± 8.0 years) and 49 outpatients without decreased ADL (mean age: 76.8 ± 5.3 years). Current age, age at the start of ADL decrease, medical history and history of smoking were investigated.Results:  In the groups with decreased ADL, current age and the age of becoming bedridden in non‐diabetic versus diabetic groups were 84.7 ± 7.9 versus 80.3 ± 7.5 and 82.7 ± 8.3 versus 77.6 ± 8.0 years, respectively, both showing significantly lower values in the diabetic group (P < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis revealed that sex difference and diabetes were the factors determining the age of becoming early bedridden. Diabetic patients with smoking habit were significantly younger than diabetic and non‐diabetic patients without smoking habit.Conclusion:  Sex difference, smoking habit and presence of diabetes mellitus are independent risk factors of becoming early bedridden. Therefore, the major targets of medical care among elderly should be diabetic men with a smoking habit to lower the risks of decreased ADL. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 297–303.
Effect of ferulic acid and Angelica archangelica extract on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in frontotemporal lobar degeneration and dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Kimura Takemi , Hayashida Hideki , Murata Masako , Takamatsu Junichi 
Published: January 2011

Aim:  The behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia place a heavy burden on caregivers. Antipsychotic drugs, though used to reduce the symptoms, frequently decrease patients' activities of daily living and reduce their quality of life. Recently, it was suggested that ferulic acid is an effective treatment for behavioral and psychological symptoms. We have also reported several patients with dementia with Lewy bodies showing good responses to ferulic acid and Angelica archangelica extract (Feru‐guard). The present study investigated the efficacy of Feru‐guard in the treatment of behavioral and psychological symptoms in frontotemporal lobar degeneration and dementia with Lewy bodies.Methods:  We designed a prospective, open‐label trial of daily Feru‐guard (3.0 g/day) lasting 4 weeks in 20 patients with frontotemporal lobar degeneration or dementia with Lewy bodies. Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia were assessed at baseline and 4 weeks after the start of treatment, using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory scores were analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.Results:  Treatment with Feru‐guard led to decreased scores on the Neuropsychiatric Inventory in 19 of 20 patients and significantly decreased the score overall. The treatment also led to significantly reduced subscale scores on the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (“delusions”, “hallucinations”, “agitation/aggression”, “anxiety”, “apathy/indifference”, “irritability/lability” and “aberrant behavior”). There were no adverse effects or significant changes in physical findings or laboratory data.Conclusion:  Feru‐guard may be effective and valuable for treating the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia in frontotemporal lobar degeneration and dementia with Lewy bodies. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 309–314.
Experience of elderly Spanish men with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator
Authors: Palacios‐Ceña Domingo , Losa‐Iglesias Marta Elena , Salvadores‐Fuentes Paloma , Alonso‐Blanco Cristina , Fernández‐de‐las‐Peñas Cesar 
Published: January 2011

Aim:  An implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator is the treatment of choice for ventricular arrhythmias and sudden death. Clinical trials and qualitative studies normally exclude elderly patients. The aim of this study was to describe the experience of elderly Spanish men with an implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator.Methods:  This was a qualitative phenomenological study. Sampling was purposeful and used the snowball technique. Unstructured interviews and recipients' personal accounts were collected. Data collection finished with information saturation. Analysis was performed using the Giorgi proposal with triangulation between research‐team members. Data were audited by an external researcher.Results:  The change and the need to adapt to the new situation can be perceived as a loss of independence by the elderly. The significance of the partner in the Spanish context is particularly relevant during the narration. Also, their view of the world is transformed, they experience an internal change. Additionally, the elderly patient may become confined to their home and shut off from their surroundings, accompanied by a sensation of being “stuck” and “imprisoned” by their own process.Conclusion:  Elderly recipients can end up “clinging on” to customs as they are felt to define the recipient's identity and utility within their social and personal context. Their partner is of huge significance for elderly recipients. The geriatric health personnel must contribute to promote and maintain activities of daily living in elderly. Future qualitative studies taking an in‐depth look at the experience and readjustment process of elderly recipients and the relationship among older people and technological equipment should be further conducted. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 320–327.
Participation of BKCa2+ and KATP potassium ion channels in the contractility of human term pregnant myometrium in in vitro conditions
Authors: Sadlonova Vladimira , Franova Sona , Dokus Karol , Janicek Frantisek , Visnovsky Jozef , Sadlonova Jurina 
Published: January 2011

AbstractAim:  The aim of this study was to assess the participation of ligand‐sensitive potassium large conductance calcium‐activated ion channels (BKCa2+) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐sensitive potassium ion channels (KATP) using its openers (NS1619 and pinacidil) in the contractility of human term pregnant myometrium in in vitro conditions.Methods:  Human myometrium tissue samples were collected from term pregnant laboring women who had to undergo cesarean section. The contractility of myometrium was induced by the application of oxytocin into the organ bath. Myometrial strips were incubated with the opener of BKCa2+ potassium ion channels NS1619 and its antagonist tetraethylammonium or with the opener of KATP potassium ion channels pinacidil and its antagonist glibenclamide.Results:  KATP potassium ion channel's opener pinacidil significantly decreased amplitude of myometrial contractions (P < 0.05) as well as frequency of myometrial contractions (P < 0.05) provoked by oxytocin in human term pregnant myometrium in in vitro conditions. The inhibition of the human myometrial contractions of pinacidil was significantly antagonized by its specific antagonist glibenclamide (P < 0.05). BKCa2+ potassium ion channel's opener NS1619 did not significantly affect the contractile activity of human term pregnant myometrium induced by the application of oxytocin in in vitro conditions.Conclusion:  In our experimental study we found that the participation of BKCa2+ and KATP potassium ion channels in the contractility of human term pregnant myometrium in labor is probably different.
Myomectomy for uterine myomas through ultramini‐laparotomy
Authors: Wen Kuo‐Chang , Sung Pi‐Lin , Lee Wen‐Ling , Li Yiu‐Tai , Su Wen‐Hsiang , Wang Peng‐Hui 
Published: January 2011

AbstractUterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors in the female reproductive tract during the reproductive years. Among the options in the treatment spectrum, myomectomy is always considered one of the best choices in the management of women with symptomatic uterine fibroids who wish to preserve future fertility. Myomectomy through conventional exploratory laparotomy may be the most familiar surgical approach. However, with the advances being made in techniques and instruments, there are many alternative approaches to myomectomy, including mini‐laparotomy, ultramini‐laparotomy, laparoscopy, laparoscopy‐aided, and vaginal and hysteroscopic approaches. The focus of this review article is limited to discussing the use of the ultramini‐laparotomy approach to completing myomectomy in the management of the uterine fibroids.
Changes in urodynamic parameters after tolterodine treatment for female overactive bladder syndrome with or without voiding dysfunction
Authors: Wu Wen‐Yih , Hsiao Sheng‐Mou , Chang Ting‐Chen , Lin Ho‐Hsiung 
Published: January 2011

AbstractAim:  To investigate changes in urodynamic parameters after tolterodine treatment for female overactive bladder syndrome, especially in patients with voiding dysfunction.Methods:  Between January and December 2006, 44 patients were enrolled for six months of treatment with tolterodine. Pre‐treatment and post‐treatment urodynamic studies were scheduled for the enrolled patients.Results:  Among the remaining 33 patients (11 dropped out), bladder capacity (P < 0.001) and post‐void residual urine (P = 0.009) increased, and functional urethral length (P = 0.049) and pad weight test (P = 0.03) decreased after treatment. Besides this, detrusor pressure at maximal urine flow, functional urethral length, maximal urethral pressure and maximal urethral closure pressure were less affected by tolterodine in patients with voiding dysfunction, compared to those without voiding dysfunction.Conclusions:  Tolterodine treatment increased bladder capacity and decreased urine leakage; however, some urodynamic parameters in patients with voiding dysfunction were less affected by tolterodine treatment.