bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Experiencing Simulated Aging Improves Knowledge of and Attitudes Toward Aging
Authors: Yu Chiu‐Yen , Chen Kuei‐Min 
Published: May 2012

Nursing assistants provide 90% of the functional and psychosocial care of older adults in nursing homes. Without knowledge of the normal physical changes of aging, it would be difficult to provide them with appropriate quality care. This quasi‐experimental study aimed to test the effects of the Elderly Simulation Program on nursing assistants' knowledge about aging, attitudes toward older adults, and the motivation to care for older adults in nursing homes. The program has two parts: a 1‐hour lecture about aging changes and a 1‐hour simulation of the roles of an older adult, a caregiver, and a “rusher” (20 minutes for each role). A convenience sample of 83 full‐time nursing assistants was recruited from nursing homes in Taiwan. The participants were assigned to an experimental (n = 43) or a control group (n = 40). The experimental group received the Elderly Simulation Program intervention, whereas the control group did not participate in any educational programs. Data were collected before the intervention and 4 wk after the program was completed. Results indicated that 4 wk after the intervention, the experimental group participants' knowledge about aging and attitudes toward older adults had significantly improved (all P < .001). The experimental group participants also had greater knowledge of aging than the control group at posttest (P < .001). It is recommended that the program be incorporated into the regular on‐the‐job continuing education of nursing assistants in long‐term care facilities to enhance their knowledge about aging and their attitudes towards older adults.
Cadaver Treasure Hunt: Introducing Geriatrics Concepts in the Anatomy Class
Authors: McNicoll Lynn , Fulton Ana Tuya , Ritter Dale , Besdine Richard W. 
Published: May 2012

The objective of this study was to develop an educational program introducing geriatrics to medical students during anatomy. Observational study of an educational intervention in medical school was the design utilized. First‐year medical students in an anatomy laboratory were participants.The program consists of a lecture and a workshop. First, a geriatrics lecture early in the course presents demographic data on the cadavers, followed by comparison with national data on leading causes of death. Second, there is a “treasure hunt” in the anatomy laboratory conducted by geriatricians. Each geriatrician spends 45 minutes with one‐four‐student cadaver group at a time, reviewing anatomical findings and facilitating a discussion of clinical correlations and implications. A list of common anatomical findings, aging‐ and disease‐related, is distributed to the students as an aid in identifying findings of interest. Students have been surprised to learn that the mean age of the 24 cadavers exceeded 80 years (mean 81, median 85 for 2 years), and that causes of death mirrored national data. The students begin understanding aging and appreciate the valuable resource of cadavers. The students acquire a new holistic perspective regarding their cadavers that is not apparent during the dissections. Students and faculty find the experience valuable in understanding the interplay of disease and aging. Evaluations have been mostly positive (82–87% positive responses). The anatomy lecture and “treasure hunt” experience are unique strategies for using cadavers to introduce geriatrics principles into the medical school.
KGF‐2 targets alveolar epithelia and capillary endothelia to reduce high altitude pulmonary oedema in rats
Authors: She Jun , Goolaerts Arnaud , Shen Jun , Bi Jing , Tong Lin , Gao Lei , Song Yuanlin , Bai Chunxue 
Published: May 2012

AbstractHigh altitude pulmonary oedema (HAPE) severely affects non‐acclimatized individuals and is characterized by alveolar flooding with protein‐ rich oedema as a consequence of blood‐gas barrier disruption. Limited choice for prophylactic treatment warrants effective therapy against HAPE. Keratinocyte growth factor‐2 (KGF‐2) has shown efficiency in preventing alveolar epithelial cell DNA damages in vitro. In the current study, the effects of KGF‐2 intratracheal instillation on mortality, lung liquid balance and lung histology were evaluated in our previously developed rat model of HAPE. We found that pre‐treatment with KGF‐2 (5 mg/kg) significantly decreased mortality, improved oxygenation and reduced lung wet‐to‐dry weight ratio by preventing alveolar‐capillary barrier disruption demonstrated by histological examination and increasing alveolar fluid clearance up to 150%. In addition, KGF‐2 significantly inhibited decrease of transendothelial permeability after exposure to hypoxia, accompanied by a 10‐fold increase of Akt activity and inhibited apoptosis in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells, demonstrating attenuated endothelial apoptosis might contribute to reduction of endothelial permeability. These results showed the efficacy of KGF‐2 on inhibition of endothelial cell apoptosis, preservation of alveolar‐capillary barrier integrity and promotion of pulmonary oedema absorption in HAPE. Thus, KGF‐2 may represent a potential drug candidate for the prevention of HAPE.
Occurrence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on the hands of hospital patients before and after the introduction of patient hand disinfection
Authors: Hedin Göran , Blomkvist Annika , Janson Marianne , Lindblom Anders 
Published: May 2012

The leading cause of nosocomial infections and spread of multiresistant bacteria is considered to be the failure of healthcare workers to perform appropriate hand hygiene. The role of the hands of hospital patients in the spread of infection has received little attention. The aim of the present study was to investigate the occurrence of potentially pathogenic bacteria on the patients' hands. Quantitative cultures were repeatedly taken from the fingertips of patients at a rehabilitation clinic before and after an intervention in which patient hand disinfection was introduced and promoted. Before the intervention, the occurrence on the hands of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., enterococci, Staphylococcus aureus and yeast was a common finding. The colony counts of S. aureus were often higher than the counts of other organisms. After the intervention, the level of hand contamination was lower. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05) concerning Enterobacteriaceae, both when the patients were resting and at lunch time, for enterococci and total bacterial counts at lunch time, and for yeast when they were resting. Concerning S. aureus, the difference was not statistically significant, neither while resting nor at lunch time. The role of the patients in the spread of pathogenic bacteria merits more discussion.
Swimming pool contact dermatitis caused by 1‐bromo‐3‐chloro‐5,5‐dimethyl hydantoin
Authors: Dalmau Gaspar , Estela Martínez‐Escala Maria , Gázquez Vanessa , Pujol‐Montcusí José Antonio , Canadell Laura , Espona Quer Mercé , Pujol Ramón M. , Vilaplana Joan , Gaig Pere , Giménez‐Arnau Ana 
Published: May 2012

Background. Bromo‐3‐chloro‐5,5‐dimethylhydantoin (BCDMH) is a chemical used as a disinfectant for recreational water. BCDMH was described as being responsible for an epidemic of irritant contact dermatitis in the UK (1983), and its sensitizing capacity was also discussed.Objectives. The aim of this study was to assess whether BCDMH used to disinfect swimming pools and spas can cause allergic contact dermatitis among its users.Methods. Ten patients suffering from dermatitis associated with using swimming pools disinfected with BCDMH and 40 controls were studied. Several dilutions of BCDMH, 10% to 1 ppm, were patch tested.Results. All 10 patients studied showed a positive patch test reaction to BCDMH 1% in petrolatum. At least one case showed occupational relevance, with a positive reaction even at 1 ppm.Conclusion. On the basis of the clinical findings, the positive patch test reactions to BCDMH, and the negative patch test reactions in controls, the suggested diagnosis was allergic contact dermatitis caused by BCDMH used as a disinfectant in the swimming pool water. Contact allergy should be taken into consideration when patients suffer from swimming pool‐associated itchy dermatitis.
Anaphylaxis and severe systemic reactions caused by skin contact with persulfates in hair‐bleaching products
Authors: Hoekstra Margriet , van der Heide Sicco , Coenraads Pieter Jan , Schuttelaar Marie Louise Anna 
Published: May 2012

Background. Persulfates have been reported to cause both delayed‐type and immediate skin reactions. They may also cause immediate reactions of the mucous membranes of the bronchial system through inhalation, leading to asthma and rhinitis. Anaphylactic reactions caused by contact with persulfates are rare. The mechanism of immediate reactions caused by persulfates is unclear.Objectives. To report 2 cases with systemic reactions after skin contact with persulfates, and to propose a test protocol for diagnosing immediate reactions caused by persulfates.Methods. Prick tests with serial dilutions of ammonium and potassium persulfate were performed. Patch tests were also performed with the two agents. Persulfate‐specific IgE was detected with two different IgE immunoblotting techniques.Results. Prick tests were positive with ammonium and potassium persufate, but no specific IgE was detected in the serum. Patch tests showed early positive reactions to both persulfates in 1 patient.Conclusions. Prick tests and patch tests can be valuable in the testing of patients with a suspicion of an immediate‐type reaction caused by persulfates. The mechanism of these reactions remains unclear.
Neonatal lupus erythematosus and its clinical variability
Authors: Inzinger Martin , Salmhofer Wolfgang , Binder Barbara 
Published: May 2012

SummaryNeonatal lupus erythematosus (NLE) is a rare disease affecting newborns that is caused by maternal autoantibodies transmitted across the placenta. The disease may affect the skin, the heart, and rarely the hepatobiliary or hematological systems. A serious complication affecting some patients with NLE is atri‐oventricular heart block (AV block).The clinical picture of cutaneous NLE varies considerably. NLE presents with confluent, scaly, periorbital erythema, or erythematous infiltrated plaques with central vesicles and lesions resembling seborrheic eczema or fungal infection. In any newborn with such skin lesions, NLE should be included in the differential diagnosis. Dermatologists play an important role in the diagnosis. We review different skin lesions occurring in neonatal lupus erythematosus based on five patients from our own clinic.
Conservative Management of Gingival Recession: The Gingival Veneer
Authors: GOPAKUMAR ASHISH , SOOD BANOO 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTGingival recession is apical migration of the gingival tissues resulting in exposure of the underlying root surface. This can cause significant esthetic concerns for the patient, especially when it affects the anterior teeth. The gingival veneer is a prosthesis indicated for challenging clinical situations where there are esthetic concerns because of gingival recession, particularly loss of interdental papillae. Replacement crowns, surgery, or extraction of teeth, and provision of a removable partial denture are other treatment options; however, these have a significant biologic and financial cost compared with gingival veneers. This article aims to revisit the gingival veneer: its uses, advantages, disadvantages, and its fabrication. The cases discussed here highlight two different clinical situations where the gingival veneer prosthesis helped in achieving optimum esthetics and patient satisfaction thus proving to be a feasible and simple treatment modality in certain clinical cases. This may offer a good interim solution for patients who may wish to have time to consider their options of more advanced and complex treatment. Some patients may choose to wear the veneer as a long‐term solution when the burden/risk of further advanced treatment may outweigh the benefits, as perceived by the patients.CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCEThe gingival veneer is a viable treatment option for restoring anterior esthetics in clinical situations where there are esthetic concerns caused by significant gingival recession. Case selection is important for a predictable and successful outcome.(J Esthet Restor Dent ••:••–••, 2012)
Improved Microwave Dielectric Properties of La(Mg0.5Sn0.5)O3 Ceramics with Yb3+ Doping
Authors: Chen Yih‐Chien 
Published: May 2012

The La1−xYbx(Mg0.5Sn0.5)O3 ceramics were prepared by the conventional solid‐state method with various sintering temperatures. The X‐ray diffraction patterns of the La0.97Yb0.03(Mg0.5Sn0.5)O3 ceramics revealed no significant variation of phase with sintering temperatures. An apparent density of 6.65 g/cm3, a dielectric constant (εr) of 20.2, a quality factor (Q × f) of 56,800 GHz, and a temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) of −76.9 ppm/°C were obtained for La0.97Yb0.03(Mg0.5Sn0.5)O3 ceramics that were sintered at 1550°C for 4 h.
The dorid nudibranchs Peltodoris lentiginosa and Archidoris odhneri as predators of glass sponges
Authors: Chu Jackson W.F. , Leys Sally P. 
Published: May 2012

AbstractThe dorid nudibranchs
Peltodoris lentiginosa and
Archidoris odhneri were found on glass sponges (Porifera, Hexactinellida) during remotely operated vehicle surveys of three reefs in the Strait of Georgia, British Columbia, Canada. Eight nudibranchs were sampled from 2009 to 2011. Identification of sponge spicules found in their gut and fecal contents confirmed the nudibranchs to be predators of the reef‐forming hexactinellids
Aphrocallistes vastus and
Heterochone calyx, as well as of the demosponge
Desmacella austini, which encrusts skeletons of the glass sponges. Four of five nudibranchs dissected for gut content analysis had stomachs containing sponge spicules. Counts from high‐definition video footage taken during systematic surveys done in 2009 showed that nudibranchs were found in only two of the three glass sponge reefs. These data provide the first quantitative evidence of a molluscan predator on glass sponges found outside of Antarctica, and establish the first trophic link between glass sponges and their associated community of animals in a sponge reef ecosystem on the western Canadian continental shelf.
DETERMINING SEQUENTIAL DIFFERENCE THRESHOLDS FOR SODIUM CHLORIDE REDUCTION
Authors: BOBOWSKI NUALA , VICKERS ZATA 
Published: May 2012

ABSTRACTIn response to the Institute of Medicine's suggestion for an industry‐wide mandate on salt reduction via gradual stepwise decline of salt in foods, the objective of this study was to determine a set of sequential difference thresholds for sodium chloride reduction in plain water, and in water with added taste stimuli (sucrose, citric acid, caffeine, monosodium glutamate, disodium 5′‐ inosinate and disodium 5′‐ guanylate) to simulate a more complex‐flavored broth. Ten subjects were recruited from a trained descriptive analysis panel of 6‐n‐propylthiouracil tasters and supertasters. Using paired‐comparison tests, difference thresholds were established for each of the two described solutions starting at a salt concentration comparable with that of commercially available soup, and ending at a concentration required to meet the Food and Drug Administration's low‐sodium guidelines. From these thresholds, two series of concentrations were established: a 26‐step reduction for salt in water, and a 12‐step reduction for salt in water with added stimuli. The difference in the number of steps illustrates the importance of product complexity in determining sensitivity to sodium reduction and provides basic information for manufacturers interested in gradually decreasing salt content of foods without being noticed by consumers.PRACTICAL APPLICATIONSThe series of salt concentrations determined in this study provides a foundation for food manufacturers interested in reducing salt content of processed foods, and basic information for people interested in reducing their personal dietary salt intake without adversely impacting product acceptability. The strategy of gradually decreasing salt content of foods is currently being considered by the Food and Drug Administration for industry‐wide application, and if successful, has the potential to significantly reduce rates of health conditions related to overconsumption of salt.
Creating and Using Index Scores in the Analysis of School Policy Implementation and Impact
Authors: Phillips Martha M. , Goodell Melanie , Raczynski James M. , Philyaw Perez Amanda G. 
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: Epidemic increases in childhood obesity and associated health risks are resulting in efforts to implement school policies related to nutrition and physical activity (NPA). With multicomponent policy efforts, challenges exist in characterizing the extent of policy change across the breadth of NPA policies.METHODS: Aggregated policy indices were created to characterize NPA policy implementation in Arkansas public schools from 2004 through 2009. Index scores are presented by year, domain, and school level.RESULTS: Both mean and median index scores increased over time, with greater changes seen in nutrition than in physical activity policy scores. The composite index score was heavily dependent on the nutrition index score and, thus, is relatively less useful for the purposes of our evaluation. Policy index scores varied by school level, rurality, enrollment size, and percentage of students eligible for federal meal programs.CONCLUSIONS: The policy index approach facilitates the consideration of the effect of school policy change in a holistic, aggregated way. School characteristics influence policy adoption, and thus, should be taken into consideration in the promotion of policy change.
Strength and Comprehensiveness of District School Wellness Policies Predict Policy Implementation at the School Level*
Authors: Schwartz Marlene B. , Henderson Kathryn E. , Falbe Jennifer , Novak Sarah A. , Wharton Christopher M. , Long Michael W. , O'Connell Meghan L. , Fiore Susan S. 
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: In 2006, all local education agencies in the United States participating in federal school meal programs were required to establish school wellness policies. This study documented the strength and comprehensiveness of 1 state's written district policies using a coding tool, and tested whether these traits predicted school‐level implementation and practices.METHODS: School wellness policies from 151 Connecticut districts were evaluated. School principal surveys were collected before and after the writing and expected implementation of wellness policies. Sociodemographic variables were assessed for each district, including enrollment, population density, political climate, racial composition, and socioeconomic status. Changes in school‐level policy implementation before and after the federal wellness policy mandate were compared across districts by wellness policy strength; policies were compared based on district‐level demographics.RESULTS: Statewide, more complete implementation of nutrition and physical activity policies at the school level was reported after adoption of written policies. Districts with stronger, more comprehensive policies were more successful in implementing them at the school level. Some sociodemographic characteristics predicted the strength of wellness policies.CONCLUSIONS: Written school wellness policies have the potential to promote significant improvements in the school environment. Future regulation of school wellness policies should focus on the importance of writing strong and comprehensive policies.
School‐Based BMI and Body Composition Screening and Parent Notification in California: Methods and Messages
Authors: Madsen Kristine A. , Linchey Jennifer 
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: School‐based body mass index (BMI) or body composition screening is increasing, but little is known about the process of parent notification. Since 2001, California has required annual screening of body composition via the FITNESSGRAM, with optional notification. This study sought to identify the prevalence of parental notification when screening is required but notification is optional, and the methods and messages used.METHODS: Researchers conducted phone interviews with 851 school districts (89%) in California and reviewed notification materials from 54 districts.RESULTS: As of 2008, 53% of California districts notified parents of screening results. Many districts (24%) did not know the reason for their notification policy. Most districts notified parents via a letter mailed home (70%) or sent home with the child (18%). Whereas 79% of sample letters provided students' BMI, only 12% provided an explanation of BMI, and only half provided tips on what parents should do if concerned about their child's results.CONCLUSIONS: In California, where body composition screening is required but parent notification is not, approximately half of school districts elect to notify parents of results, most commonly via letter. Most letters do not explain BMI or percent body fat scores, nor do they suggest what parents should do for a child identified as at‐risk. Further research to identify interpretable and actionable notification messages for parents will be critical if school‐based BMI and body composition screening and notification is to reduce childhood obesity.
The Influence of Anterior Cerebral Artery Flow Diversion Measured by Transcranial Doppler on Acute Infarct Volume and Clinical Outcome in Anterior Circulation Stroke
Authors: Zareie Hossein , Quain Debbie A. , Parsons Mark , Inder Kerry J. , McElduff Patrick , Miteff Ferdinand , Spratt Neil J. , Levi Christopher 
Published: May 2012

Introduction Anterior cerebral artery flow diversion, measured by transcranial Doppler ultrasound, is correlated with leptomeningeal collateral flow on digital subtraction angiography in the setting of middle cerebral artery occlusion. We aimed to assess the influence of flow diversion as a marker of leptomeningeal collateralization on infarct size and penumbral volume. Methods We assessed consecutive patients presenting within six-hours of ischaemic stroke. Anterior cerebral artery flow diversion, defined as ipsilateral mean velocity of at least 30% greater than the contralateral artery, was used as the Doppler index of leptomeningeal collateralization. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to assess the impact of anterior cerebral artery flow diversion, controlling for other important clinical variables. Leptomeningeal collateralization was also graded on computed tomography angiography. Infarct core and penumbral volumes were defined using computed tomography perfusion thresholds of cerebral blood volume and mean transit time. Infarct volume, reperfusion, and vessel status were measured at 24 h using magnetic resonance techniques. Results Fifty-three patients qualified for analysis. Anterior cerebral artery flow diversion was associated with good collateral flow on computed tomography angiography ( P < 0·001) and was an independent predictor of admission infarct core volume ( P < 0·001), and 24 h infarct volume ( P < 0·001). The likelihood of a favourable outcome (modified Rankin Score 0–2) was higher (odds ratio = 27·5, P < 0·001) in those with flow diversion. Conclusions Anterior cerebral artery flow diversion indicates effective leptomeningeal collateralization as measured by computed tomography angiography, and independently predicts acute infarct size and 90-day clinical outcome. Flow diversion appears to provide penumbral perfusion, offering some protection against infarct expansion. Acute bedside transcranial Doppler assessment of flow diversion aids prognostication and therapeutic decision making in anterior circulation stroke.