bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Focal Location Quotients: Specification and Applications
Authors: Cromley Robert G. , Hanink Dean M. 
Published: July 2012

Location quotients (LQs) are commonly used descriptive statistics in spatial analysis. They are not directly affected by neighbor relationships, and their calculation ignores spatial information. This article computes LQs as focal, rather than strictly local, functions by incorporating the spatial structure of the observations in the reference group in their computation. Focal LQs, tested for significance by event‐based Monte Carlo simulations, are applied both to North Carolina sudden infant death syndrome data for comparison with the spatial statistic and to sectoral employment data in that state in a more typical context for LQ analysis. The significance tests show that the focal LQ is far more sensitive to the size of the denominator for spatially intensive data than is the statistic.Los autores usan momentos de una matriz de covarianza para datos panel espaciales para estimar los parámetros del modelo de autoregresión espacial (spatial autoregressive model), incluyendo la matriz de conectividad (o de ponderación) espacial W. En el modelo de autoregresión espacial sin restricciones, los parámetros están sub‐identificados por un valor de uno en los casos que la matriz W es simétrica. Los autores demuestran que existe un caso especial en el cual la matriz W es asimétrica y sus parámetros tienen cálculo exacto. Si los datos panel son estacionarios y ergódicos, espacial y temporalmente, los estimados de W y el coeficiente de autoregresión espacial son consistentes. Para ilustrar la metodología propuesta, los autores usan datos‐panel espaciales de precios de vivienda en Israel.区位熵（LQs）通常应用于空间分析的统计性描述。但分析时并没有考虑来自邻域相关性的直接影响，并且计算过程忽略空间信息。本文计算局部焦点的LQs，而并非严格意义上的局部空间，在计算过程的对照组中，对观察值的空间结构进行合并生成函数。对于局部焦点LQs的显著性检验采取基于事件的蒙特卡洛模拟方法，同时应用于北卡罗来纳州的婴儿猝死综合症（SIDS）数据与Gi*空间统计对照，和更典型状况下该州就业部门数据的LQ分析。显著性检验表明局部焦点LQ在数据密集的空间尺度上比Gi*统计量更为敏感。
Atrial Bigeminy Results in Decreased Left Ventricular Function: An Insight into the Mechanism of PVC‐Induced Cardiomyopathy
Authors: PACCHIA CHRISTINA F. , AKOUM NAZEM W. , WASMUND STEPHEN , HAMDAN MOHAMED H. 
Published: July 2012

Background:
Premature ventricular complexes have been recently recognized as a reversible cause of cardiomyopathy. The purpose of this study was to determine if premature complexes independent of “dyssynchrony” resulted in increased left ventricular (LV) dimensions and decreased LV function.
Methods:
Ten mongrel dogs underwent the implantation of a pacemaker and were randomized to a control group (n = 5) or a paced group (n = 5). In the paced group, the pacemaker was connected to two endocardial atrial leads, one inserted into the atrial port and the other one into the ventricular port with an atrioventricular delay adjusted to ensure the presence of coupled pacing simulating atrial bigeminy with conducted beats in the absence of aberrancy. Echocardiographic parameters of LV size (LV end‐diastolic diameter [LV‐EDD], LV end‐systolic diameter [LV‐ESD]), and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) were measured at baseline and after 4 weeks of monitoring (control group) or pacing (paced group).
Results:
In the control group, LV size decreased with no significant changes in LVEF: 55% at baseline versus 70% at 4 weeks (P = 0.23). In the paced group, LV‐EDD decreased with no significant change in LV‐ESD. Unlike the control group, LVEF decreased significantly from 69 ± 9% at baseline to 32 ± 22% after 4 weeks of pacing (P = 0.05).
Conclusion:
We have shown that 4 weeks of coupled pacing simulating atrial bigeminy significantly reduced LV function. Our findings suggest that premature complexes independent of ventricular dyssynchrony might lead to the development of cardiomyopathy. (PACE 2012; 35:1232–1235)
Novel Ion‐Exchange Process for the Preparation of Metal Oxide Nanopowders from Sodium Alginate
Authors: Wang Zihua , Kale Girish M. , Ghadiri Mojtaba 
Published: July 2012

A novel and generic sol–gel method has been developed for the production of high purity metal oxide nanopowders using sodium alginate. This has been demonstrated successfully employing nickel oxide (NiO) as a model material in this instance. The results of this investigation indicate that the final particle size of ~20 nm can be obtained after calcination of the predried beads at 500°C for 3 h in ambient air. An insight into the calcination process has been obtained using simultaneous thermo‐gravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry (TGA/DSC) and high temperature X‐ray diffraction (HT‐XRD). Powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirms that the obtained samples are single phase cubicNiOpowders with no trace of impurity. During the phase transformation,NiO + NiO2have been found to coexist between 250°C and 350°C and a reaction scheme is proposed to account for this. The mean crystallite sizes calculated fromXRDanalysis using Rietveld refinement method is in good agreement with the morphological features observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TheNiOnanopowders produced in this study exhibit negligible strain as indicated using Rietveld refinement procedure. TheXRDandTEManalyses indicate that there is a significant influence of calcination temperature and time on the particle size, which increases with increasing temperature and annealing time. This new sol–gel method is a simple, environmentally friendly, and nontoxic route for a large scale production of high purity single phase nanopowders in a cost‐effective manner at significantly low temperatures. The process described in this study can yield 200 kg ofNiOnanopowders per ton of driedNi‐ALGbeads.
Observed Characteristics of Suicidal Hangings: An 11‐year Retrospective Review
Authors: Dean Dorothy E. , Kohler Lisa J. , Sterbenz George C. , Gillespie Patrick J. , Gonzaga Niki S. , Bauer Laurie J. , Looman Karen , Owens O'dell 
Published: July 2012

AbstractMany studies have been published regarding suicidal hanging deaths, and most forensic pathologists and coroners are very familiar with such causes of death. Forensic pathologists are challenged over their rulings regarding manner of death in part because the general public has a limited scope of knowledge. One such challenge centers on the question of whether a hanging can be a suicide if the individual is not fully suspended. The authors designed a retrospective study to review suspension in hangings and to analyze other criteria used to help in deciding manner of death. We examined 229 suicidal hanging deaths over an 11‐year period (1997 through early 2009) using the data from two separate jurisdictions in Ohio. In conclusion, we found that the vast majority (83.4%) of people who hanged themselves were found partially suspended. Among other criteria analyzed, only the presence of petechial hemorrhages and acute neck injury was statistically significant.
Tariff equivalents of nontariff measures: the case of European horticultural and fish imports from African countries
Authors: Nimenya Nicodème , Ndimira Pascal‐Firmin , de Frahan Bruno Henry 
Published: July 2012

AbstractIn the context of the Partnership Agreements between the European Union (EU) and the African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries, this study estimates ad valorem tariff equivalents of European food safety standards on imports of key horticultural and fish products from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia. The study uses an extension of the price‐wedge method to account for imperfect substitution and factor endowment in monopolistic competition. The estimated tariff equivalents are 55% and 98% for imports of fresh peas from Zambia to the Netherlands and the U.K., respectively. They range from 39% to 64% for imports of green beans and avocados from Kenya and from 63% to 270% for imports of frozen fish fillets in EU countries from the East African Community. We also observe large variations in tariff equivalents for the horticultural and fish products over time and EU importing countries.
Management alters interspecific leaf trait relationships and trait‐based species rankings in permanent meadows
Authors: Rose Laura , Rubarth Marie C. , Hertel Dietrich , Leuschner Christoph 
Published: July 2012

AbstractQuestionPlant functional traits have the potential to characterize species ecological strategies and predict ecosystem responses to environmental changes. (1) Do trait responses to land‐use intensification alter trait‐based species rankings, and (2) does land‐use intensification alter relationships among interrelated leaf traits?LocationSolling Mountains, Central Germany (Grassland management experiment, GrassMan).MethodsOver the course of 2 yr with differing weather conditions, we analysed the specific leaf area (SLA) of eight grassland species and related it to leaf nitrogen per mass (Nmass) or area (Narea) in an old‐growth grassland with two fertilization levels (none vs NPK fertilization, 180‐30‐100 kg·ha−1·yr−1) and two cutting frequencies (one vs three cuts per season).ResultsNPK fertilization led to an expected increase in SLA, Nmass and Narea, while the effect of altered cutting frequency on leaf traits was more species‐specific. Species‐specific responses to management significantly altered trait‐based species rankings. A significant SLA–Nmass relationship occurred in unfertilized plots, whereas the SLA–Narea relationship was stronger in fertilized plots. This was mostly caused by a decrease in the among‐species variation in Nmass upon fertilization.ConclusionsAlthough our results reflect only short‐term community responses, they indicate that trait‐based species ranking and the relationships between plant functional traits are not always consistent across different management regimes. Hence, trait values used to characterize species and communities should never be discussed without consideration of the set of environmental conditions under which they were measured.
Why Don't Healthcare Professionals Talk About Sex? A Systematic Review of Recent Qualitative Studies Conducted in the United Kingdom
Authors: Dyer Kerry , das Nair Roshan 
Published: July 2012

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Sexuality is considered to be an important aspect of holistic care, yet research has demonstrated that it is not routinely addressed in healthcare services. A greater understanding of this can be achieved through synthesizing qualitative studies investigating healthcare professionals' experiences of talking about sex. In doing so, policy makers and healthcare providers may be able to better address the sexual issues of service users.

Aim
To gain an in-depth understanding of healthcare professionals' subjective experience of discussing sexuality with service users by identifying the factors that impede and facilitate such discussions.

Main Outcome Measures
Review of healthcare professionals' experience of discussing sexuality with service users.

Methods
Electronic databases and reference lists of published articles were searched in July 2011. Primary research studies were included in the review if they explored health professionals' experiences of discussing sexuality with adult service users, used qualitative methods, and were conducted in the United Kingdom over the last 10 years. Each study was reviewed and assessed. A secondary thematic analysis method was used where key themes were extracted and grouped and key concepts were explored.

Results
Nineteen interconnected themes emerged relating to healthcare professionals' experience of discussing sexuality with service users, including fear about “opening up a can of worms,” lack of time, resources, and training, concern about knowledge and abilities, worry about causing offense, personal discomfort, and a lack of awareness about sexual issues. Some themes were particularly marked relating to the sexuality of the opposite-gender, black and ethnic minority groups, older and nonheterosexual service users, and those with intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions
The majority of healthcare professionals do not proactively discuss sexuality issues with service users, and this warrants further attention. An understanding of the perceived barriers and facilitators indicates that interventions to improve the extent to which sexuality issues are addressed need to take organizational, structural, and personal factors into consideration.
Effects of Salusin‐β on action potential and ionic currents in ventricular myocytes of rats
Authors: Ren An‐Jing , Liang Qing , Wang Rong , Ji Hai‐Yu , Wu Yi , Shi Jing‐Song , Lin Li , Yuan Wen‐Jun 
Published: July 2012

AbstractAimSalusin‐β is a regulatory peptide that exerts negative inotropic effect on ventricular muscle, but its electrophysiological effects on ventricular myocytes are still unknown.MethodsAction potential and channel currents such as sodium current (INa), transient outward potassium current (Ito), steady‐state potassium current (Isus), sodium–calcium exchange current (INaCa) and inward rectifier potassium current (IK1) were measured in ventricular myocytes isolated from 12 to 16 weeks rats by whole‐cell voltage‐clamp techniques.ResultsSalusin‐β dose‐dependently shortened the duration of action potential in rat ventricular myocytes. Furthermore, salusin‐β significantly inhibited INaCa and increased Ito, but did not affect INa, Isus and IK1.ConclusionThese results suggest that the effect of salusin‐β on action potential may be partly attributed to a decrease in inward currents and an increase in outward currents.
The future of nursing
Authors: Moores Y. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThe White paper, “The New NHS, Modern ‐ Dependable” has marked a turning point for the National Health Service and Nursing, replacing the internal market with integrated care, and sets out a vision of health service that meets the full range of patients' needs in all care settings. Assuring quality is an underpinning theme of the White paper, with nursing having a vital role in driving this agenda forward. Quality encompasses the environment of care, the professionalism, skill and compassion of staff, the effectiveness of treatments and respect and dignity of patients. This is an exciting time for nursing with many challenges, as the recognition and value for nursing grows. The profession has the ability to rise to these challenges and make a real difference to people's health and well being.
Clinical outcomes for patients with diabetic nephropathy
Authors: De Francisco A.L.M. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryDiabetic nephropathy is the chief cause of morbidity and premature mortality in patients with diabetes with clinically significant renal disease being present in 30–50% of type 1 and 10% of type 2 diabetics after 10–20 years of the disease. End stage renal failure is commonly associated with other complications of diabetes, such as severe retinopathy and vasculopathy of the coronary, cerebral and peripheral arteries. Diabetic patients represent 35% in USA and about 20% in Europe of all new end stage renal disease patients. This paper reviews the current practices to prevent complications and discusses clinical issues and outcomes associated with the different renal replacement therapies.
Pre‐dialysis serum albumin is a poor indicator of nutritional status in stable chronic haemodialysis patients
Authors: Dutton J. , Campbell H. , Tanner J. , Richards N. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThe correlation between pre‐dialysis serum albumin and mortality has been linked with malnutrition. We measured pre and post‐dialysis albumin in 86 stable haemodialysis patients and compared them with anthropometric measurements and body mass index (BMI). On the basis of pre‐dialysis albumin 13% of patients would be classified as high risk, whilst on the basis of post‐dialysis albumin only 12% would be classified as high risk. Change in albumin could be predicted by fluid removal during haemodialysis. Pre‐dialysis albumin correlated weakly with mid upper arm circumference (MUAC). Post dialysis albumin correlated with MUAC and triceps skin fold thickness (TSF). There was a weak negative correlation between age and post‐dialysis albumin. TSF strongly correlated with MUAC and BMI. Pre‐dialysis albumin appears to be a poor predictor of nutritional status and does not correlate well with other nutritional parameters. The excess risk of death associated with a low pre‐dialysis albumin may be related to fluid overload rather than malnutrition.
Blood recirculation in malfunctioning catheters for haemodialysis
Authors: Crespo R. , Rivero M.F. , Contreras M.D. , Martínez A. , Labrador A. , Jurado M.J. , Casas R. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryVenous catheters are increasingly used for chronic haemodialysis, with dual lumen catheters being the most commonly used as blood recirculation (REC%) is relatively low. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate blood recirculation in dual lumen catheters, both well‐functioning and malfunctioning, with reversed lumens. In our study, blood recirculation in well‐functioning catheters with standard lumens is similar to that found in previous studies. However, when lumens are reversed, blood recirculation increases significantly (6.7 ± 4 vs 19 ± 11 %, p<0.001). REC% in malfunctioning catheters (10.8 ± 2%) was higher than normal function (p<0.05) but lower than reversed flow in normal catheters (p<0.01) Therefore, inadvertent reversal of lumens in a well‐functioning catheter increases REC% in a significant manner, thus worsening haemodialysis efficiency. We conclude that, in inflow failure catheters, lumens can be reversed because REC% is acceptable. However, inadvertent reversal of lumens in a well‐functioning catheter increases REC% to a level which may compromise the adequacy of haemodialysis.
Rediscovering home haemodialysis. Returning choice to patients
Authors: Lunts P. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryIncreased demand for haemodialysis and the stresses on existing units have led to a crisis in renal replacement therapy around the world. Allied to this is a realisation that dialysis needs to be viewed increasingly as a long‐term option for patients. New approaches to treating people with dialysis need to be developed to reflect this. By adopting a modern approach, home haemodialysis can be a viable, indeed an optimal, treatment for many patients.
Evolution and development of a renal recipient transplant co‐ordinator for the Asian community
Authors: Jain Ms. N. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThe aim of this paper is to share with colleagues the development of this innovative role and the unprecedented experience in addressing issues of transplantation for a large Asian population. The author is the named transplant co‐ordinator for all Asian patients who account for 30% of the total waiting list. During the first six months of the post the author has undertaken home visits, nurse‐led clinics and liaison with dialysis units. This continuous direct rapport is unique, and facilitates the living donor programme. The author has been involved in developing specific educational material relevant and appropriate to this patient population. Patients and families comments and responses have been favourable and positive. Audit and evaluation of the role is on‐going and the author feels privileged to be central to this process of providing holistic care equitably to all patients in a multicultural society.
Exercising to fitness on dialysis
Authors: Death C. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryExercise tolerance is a recognised consequence of chronic renal failure. Physical de‐conditioning is an integral factor in preventing the achievement of an otherwise very acceptable quality of life which can be accomplished by good dialysis therapy. This paper reports on the implementation of an exercise programme in an ESRD setting with a patient population of over 1,100. Patients aged between 20 and 65 years were identified for phase one of the programme. All patients had an in‐depth medical assessment to eliminate potential risks. The programme encompasses stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises and a individualised exercise prescription was compiled for each participant. Twelve months after the initiation of this programme there is evidence of increased exercise tolerance, increased feelings of well‐being and enhanced stability on dialysis.
The influence of hygienic practices to the exit site/tunnel on peritoneal catheter infections
Authors: Gruart P. , Andreu L. , Gil A. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryIn Peritoneal Dialysis (PD), correct handling of the equipment and especially of the catheter exit site are essential. The PD nurse is responsible for preparing the patient to be able to carry out self care. As there are no universally accepted procedures for catheter care, we evaluated the procedure recommended in our unit, to identify the level of achievement by our patients and compare it with the infection incidences of exit site/tunnel (ES/T). 31 patients were surveyed on aspects related with hygiene, care and support of the catheter. This was complemented with a direct observation of the way of fixing and protecting the catheter and exit site, relating these facts with the incidence of infection. The results show the incidence of the infection is similar to data from other centres. It seems that the non compliance with the recommendations is due to either a misunderstanding on the patients' part or difficulty to adapt these recommendations to their particular way of life.
Communication as a teamwork tool in peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Rivetti M. , Barrile P. , Borgata M. , Cerruti G. , Battu S. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThe growing complexity of the problems which have to be faced in providing a peritoneal dialysis service, such as giving assistance over a territory, consideration of the needs of the individual and the greater emphasis on the prevention of complications, makes multidisciplinary teamwork necessary, with the interaction of various skills. In order to succeed, teamwork requires the identification of clear objectives which are shared by all the members of the team. The various skills can best be exploited by defining roles and agreeing common aims and objectives so that the team can provide the patient with holistic treatment, which recognises the needs of the individual rather than the needs of the illness. Active cohesion between the various components is only possible through a defined communication strategy and an on‐going transfer of knowledge.
Basic tools to integration in management and continuous quality improvement: protocols and procedures
Authors: Geatti S. , Pegoraro M. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryIn order to support interested colleagues with the concepts of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and Clinical Standards for Nephrology Practice, a package of education support has been set up. We enhance the use of procedures, protocols, working plans, guidelines and nursing care plans as instruments of organisational integration. For the nursing care of renal patients in HD and PD we believe that all the procedures and protocols (P&P) above could have an important impact in the renal nursing practice. We propose that group members run a programme which is presented and implemented as a modular package including, theoretical knowledge, setting up working groups involved in literature revision, evaluation of defined P&P after a period of implementation, final implementation & periodic evaluation.