bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mesoporous Metal Nitride Materials Prepared from Bulk Oxides
Authors: Yang Minghui , MacLeod Michelle J. , Tessier Franck , DiSalvo Francis J. 
Published: July 2012

The preparation of metal nitride materials structured on the nano or mesoscale is challenging due to the need for high sintering temperatures and/or long reaction times. Here, we present a new and simple process for preparing mesoporous transition metal nitrides without the use of nanopatterning or other templating. Mesoporous VN, TiN, CrN, Ta3N5, TaN, NbN, WN, MoN, and Mo2N are obtained by the ammonolysis of bulk ternary oxides containing Zn. The products were characterized by Rietveld refinement of powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis. Our results demonstrate that the pore sizes of these materials range from 10 to 50 nm. By varying the precursor stoichiometry, the transition metal, and processing conditions, many different mesoporous morphologies are obtained. These materials show high surface area and good electrical conductivity.
Irradiation by light‐emitting diode light as an adjunct to facilitate healing of experimental periodontitis in vivo
Authors: Chang P‐C. , Chien L‐Y. , Ye Y. , Kao M‐J. 
Published: July 2012

Chang P‐C, Chien L‐Y, Ye Y, Kao M‐J. Irradiation by light‐emitting diode light as an adjunct to facilitate healing of experimental periodontitis in vivo. J Periodont Res 2013; 48: 135–143. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/SBackground and Objective:  This study evaluated the biostimulatory effect of 660 nm light‐emitting diode (LED) as an adjunct in the treatment of experimental periodontitis.Material and Methods:  Ninety‐six Sprague‐Dawley rats underwent experimental periodontitis by placement of a silk ligature followed with or without additive Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (Pg‐LPS) injection. Irradiation with LED light was performed at varying energy densities of 5, 10 and 15 J/cm2, 1 d after debridement and detoxification. Rats were killed at 3, 7 and 14 d after irradiation with LED light, and the effect of irradiation was evaluated by descriptive histology and quantitative measurements of periodontal bone loss, inflammatory infiltration and cellular proliferation.Results:  Reduction of inflammation, accelerated collagen deposition and realignment was noted following irradiation with LED light at densities of 10 and 15 J/cm2, and temporary reduction of periodontal bone loss, as well as bundle bone apposition, was noted at day 3 in rats treated with 10 J/cm2 light. The biomodulatory effect was stronger in sites treated with Pg‐LPS injection. In sites without Pg‐LPS injection, temporary reduction of inflammation was noted in all LED light‐irradiated specimens at day 3. No significant change in cellular proliferation was noted in any LED light‐treated group.Conclusions:  LED light (660 nm) with an energy density of 10 J/cm2 appeared suitable as an adjunct modality for periodontitis by temporarily reducing inflammation, facilitating collagen realignment and bundle bone deposition. Future studies will aim to amplify the biostimulatory effect of LED light by adding a supplementary medium or repeated irradiation.
Berkeley on the Numerical Identity of What Several Immediately Perceive (Three Dialogues between Hylas and PhilonousIII 247–8)
Authors: Glauser Richard 
Published: August 2012

AbstractAlthough several passages in Berkeley are related to the question whether two or more finite substances can simultaneously perceive numerically identical sensible ideas, it is only in TDHP (247–8) that he addresses the question explicitly and in some detail. Yet, Berkeley’s less than straightforward reply is notoriously difficult to pin down. Some commentators take Berkeley to be endorsing a clear‐cut positive reply, whereas others have him giving an emphatically negative one; others hold that for Berkeley there is no fact of the matter that determines an answer one way or the other. I argue that all three readings find some justification at one point or another in the passage, and all hold a kernel of truth. Yet, none of them can be taken unrestrictedly because Philonous’s considered position is disjunctive: either there is no problem at all, or, if there is one (thus warranting a negative reply to the public status of sensible ideas), it makes equally against ‘materialism’ and immaterialism. I argue that the passage can be given an overall interpretation that explains why Berkeley is entitled to hold that there is some truth in each direction. I propose answers to the questions (a) why Berkeley thinks there may nevertheless be a problem after all, and (b) if so, why he can yet legitimately feel entitled to let it rest, that is, why he remains confident, within the philosophical context of his day, that his philosophy does not lead to solipsism.
Inherited thrombocytopenias: an approach to diagnosis and management
Authors: Geddis A. E. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryInherited thrombocytopenias vary in their presentation, associated features, and molecular etiologies. An accurate diagnosis is important to provide appropriate therapy as well as counseling for the individual and their family members. As the genetic basis of more disorders is understood, it will be possible to diagnose a greater fraction of patients as well as learn more about the process of megakaryopoiesis and platelet production.
Experiences of patients called to hospital for a renal transplant
Authors: Noble Helen R. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryWhen patients develop end stage renal failure (ESRF) the effects can be devastating. Patients perceive transplantation as a solution to their many problems and it is often the treatment of choice. The aim of this study was to examine the experiences of patients with ESRF when called to the hospital for a renal transplant. Semi‐structured interviews were taped, transcribed and a thematic data analysis carried out. Results demonstrated that patients felt they were given adequate support on arrival at hospital but they found the wait to determine if they were a suitable match for the kidney difficult. There was evidence that some patients coped with the situation by shutting out negative possibilities.
Immunoadsorption in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Perniok A. , Schneider M. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryPlasmapheresis and immunoadsorption (IA) have been introduced into the therapeutic strategy of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and severe organ involvement. Despite numerous reports about the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal treatments controlled studies have failed to show significant advantages compared with standard immunosuppressive treatment. We describe the historical development of plasmapheresis‐based IA‐techniques with special comments on substitution fluids and especially immunoglobuline (Ig) specific adsorption columns. In addition, an overview is given of our clinical experience with different columns and a new strategy of aggressive Ig lowering combined with standard cyclophosphamide pulse therapy in SLE patients with severe organ involvement.
Immunoadsorption in HLA‐sensitised renal patients
Authors: Bevan D.J. , Gallagher M.C. , Vaughan R.W. , Koffman C.G. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryKidney dialysis is a costly procedure both in monetary terms (£ 30,000/year/patient) and also in patient morbidity. Dialysis is capable of delivering about 10% of normal renal function in contrast to a transplanted kidney, which can provide up to 50%. Following renal transplantation the annual costs per year (after the first year) are in the region of £ 5,000 (per patient) and the transplant recipients enjoy a longer life. Not all patients who are suitable for transplantation can be easily transplanted. Dialysis‐dependent patients in end‐stage‐renal‐failure with high levels of HLA (human leukocyte antigen) specific antibodies, owing to previous blood transfusions, pregnancy or earlier failed organ transplants, have a greatly reduced likelihood of obtaining a suitable donor kidney. We have therefore developed a strategy to assist the transplantation of this disadvantaged group of patients, who constitute a significant proportion of adult renal patients on transplant waiting lists.
Daily dialysis and survival rates of vascular access
Authors: Rondini L. , Marilena L. , Pasticci F. , Quintaliani G. , Reboldi G. , Buoncristiani U. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryA major cause of morbidity for haemodialysis patients is vascular access failure and/or occlusion. It is commonly believed that increased frequency of dialysis sessions, among other factors, might lead to higher rates of fistula complications. To evaluate if patients on daily haemodialysis carry a higher risk of vascular access occlusion, we examined the raw incidence rate of access occlusion and the survival function of native vascular access in patients undergoing daily dialysis (DD ‐ N. =24) as compared to patients on standard three times a week haemodialysis (TWD‐N. =198). The number of thrombotic events in the first group was 2 (8%) whereas in the second group we observed 76 (38%) access problems (8%) (p<0.008). The mean vascular access survival before occlusion was 1307 days in TWD and 1388 days in DD. Our data clearly shows that daily dialysis should not be considered a risk factor for access occlusion.
Factors influencing iron requirements in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Ochando A. , Zaleski M. , Andrea C. , Garvía R. , López D. , Pulido A. , Galera A. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryIt is well known that haemodialysis patients are prone to developing iron deficiency. Our study looks for data to establish the factors influencing the varying iron needs among these patients.
Practical initiatives in the prevention of cross infection
Authors: Vanpellicom J. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryIn Belgium Infection Control Nurses must register postoperative wound infections, sepsis and ventilation associated pneumonia. At the author's hospital, the incidence of pressure sores is scored four times a year and there is a register of new patients with M.R.S.A. (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) and tuberculosis. Procedures for hospital hygiene can be consulted in order to see which patients must be isolated and what kind of precautions must be taken. The microorganisms and diseases are sorted alphabetically and the cause of cross‐infection, isolation procedure and duration of isolation are noted. These procedures must be translated to the different departments and individual patients. For instance a patient with M.R.S.A. is strictly isolated in the general hospital, but not in the psychiatric department. As far as the haemodialysis unit is concerned, patients with chronic renal disease are more sensitive to infections. For this reason correct hand hygiene is very important. Hand washing, hand desinfection techniques and the use of gloves must be promoted. A microbiological control of the hands of staff once a year, combined with an educational programme, can motivate staff in a positive way. Needle‐stick injuries present a serious occupational hazard for health care workers, especially those working in a haemodialysis unit. Information and needleless haemodialysis may reduce the risk of needle‐stick injuries and the risk of viral transmission.Can a nurse, at risk of viral contamination and transmission, refuse to treat a patient? Is the use of hats, overshoes, glasses necessary? How many times are these materials changed, etc.?This paper presents the data of 10 years of M.R.S.A. registration at the author's hospital. M.R.S.A. has become a serious problem in many hospitals since the mid 1970s. Strenuous efforts need to be taken to control its spread. Screening of the nose of patients and of staff can be helpful. The carriers can be treated with mupirocin ointment. Body washing with chlorhexidine is preferred. The use of vancomycin and teicoplanin is a decision for the physician.
Microbiological survey of dialysate: Vantage of use of sterile bag concentrate
Authors: Pansini S. , Degaetano R. , Boccassini D. , Turi E. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryHaemodialysed patients are exposed to nearly 400 litres of dialysis water weekly. The bacterial contamination of treated dialysate and water induces acute pyrogenic reactions or chronic damage and cytokine activation.The aim of this study was to value the microbiological parameters of dialysis water and dialysate of our monitors by bacterial culture (measured as colony forming units [CFU]) of water samples at 37 °C after 48 hours, at 22 °C after 72 hours and after seven days, and by measuring endotoxin levels (endotoxin units [EU]).In our centre, there are 16 monitors (6 monitors use sterile dialysate fluid and 10 monitors use non sterile dialysate fluid). The chemicals used for disinfection are chlorine and paracetic acid. Water samples were taken under sterile procedures every three months for a year.No bacteria were found in the samples of water of the dialysis ring; EU were lower than the limit value of 0.25 EU/ml fixed by the European Pharmacopoeia.The concentration of CFU and EU of the dialysate, taken from monitors with a sterile bag, were lower than those of other monitors (p < 0.05 t Student test). However, the levels of CFU/ml and EU/ml of dialysate samples, taken from monitors with a non‐sterile bag, were lower than the guideline value of the European Pharmacopoeia (v.n. CFU < 50 CFU/ml and EU < 0,05 EU/ml).Frequent examination of CFU and EU is essential to reduce the damage caused by the use of contaminated water, therefore the goal of future dialytic techniques will be the use of “sterile dialysate”.
Care of the geriatric patient in chronic renal failure
Authors: Bernaert P. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryCurrently, there are around one million chronic dialysis patients worldwide. More than half of these are older than 65. For various reasons this is a fast growing population.When the indication is considered to start dialysis, a distinction must be made between biological age in the third and fourth decade on the one hand, and a specific geriatric profile on the other, which implies adequate gerontological knowledge.Besides the patient‐directed choice of the best tolerated treatment technique, the specific treatment of age‐linked polypathology as well as the appropriate approach of inter‐ and intradialysis related problems regarding access and haemodynamics are the best guaranties of success in this highest age dialysis group. By means of a multidisciplinary geriatric assessment, which makes it possible to carry out an objective analysis and observation from the somatic, psychic and social points of view, an ultimate objective is achieved: the improvement of quality of life by means of rehabilitation.The survival of elderly dialysis patients has favourably evolved since the 90's after the introduction of EPO, bicarbonate dialysate, the monitoring of dialysis adequacy and support of prognostic and comorbid factors.The problems surrounding dialysis drop‐out is a sensitive and controversial matter in which well founded communication with the patient, the family, the dialysis team, domestic care and the general practitioner is vital. “Add life to years and not years to life” remains a challenge for every nephrologist.
Reduction of Kt/V by food intake during haemodialysis
Authors: Miguelsanz M. San Juan , Pilar S. Muñoz , De Pablos Santos , Prieto B. Bravo 
Published: July 2012

SummaryBackground: Urea kinetic modelling is a method for verifying that the amount of dialysis prescribed equals the amount of dialysis delivered. DOQI guidelines help to assess the causes of a low Kt/V: fistula integrity, treatment duration, methods of obtaining BUN samples, dialysis machine and patient specific variables.Objective: To demonstrate the relation between food intake during HD and measurement of Kt/V.Methods: Prospective study on 14 patients. We measured the amount of dialysis during the second week, with and without food intake during HD. HD prescription (blood flow, dialysate flow, dialyser, dry weight, heparin) was not changed.Statistical analysis was performed using Paired T test.Conclusions: 1. There was no significant change in protein catabolic rate, average urea concentration and intradialysis gain with food intake. 2. There was a significant change in levels of Kt/V using Gotch formula and Dugirdas formula with food intake.
Early management and prevention of Acute Renal Failure
Authors: Kalra P. A. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryDespite major advances in nutritional support, membrane technology and dialytic techniques, the mortality of patients with acute renal failure (ARF) who require dialysis is still almost 50% (1). Increased patient age and co‐morbidity confer a poorer prognosis, and the condition is certainly commoner in this patient group. Hence, one study showed that the age‐related annual incidence of ARF increased from 17 per million in adults under 50 years to 949 per million in the 80–89 age group (2).Over 60% of cases of ARF ultimately result from renal hypoperfusion and consequent intra‐renal ischaemic damage, which leads to acute tubular necrosis (ATN) (3). Ischaemic ARF may thus result from a diversity of systemic and intra‐renal circulatory stresses including acute losses of blood and extra‐cellular fluids, from low cardiac output states such as following ischaemic or toxic myocardial damage, and even from drug‐induced renal perfusion shutdown (ACE inhibitors, non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory agents). Many cases of ARF have a multi‐factorial aetiology (e.g. post‐surgical sepsis with hypovolaemia, hypotension and injudicious antibiotic use), and these patients, who often have other organ failure, fit into the poorer prognostic category.A large number of patients with ischaemic ARF pass through a phase of potentially reversible pre‐renal oliguria; early recognition and prompt, appropriate treatment of these pre‐renal factors can prevent progression to established ARF, with the genuine prospect of improved patient morbidity and mortality, and this is the main scope of this article. Early diagnosis in other patients with ARF, such as those with acute inflammatory renal disease (e.g. vasculitis) or urinary tract obstruction, will allow appropriate prompt treatment and the possibility for reversal of the ARF. The following account, which is composed of personal experience, that of colleagues, and the literature (1,4), is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide to the management of ARF, but seeks to highlight important common pitfalls and fundamental principles in the recognition and subsequent preventive treatment of these patients.
The effects of Acute Renal Failure on the family
Authors: Ashwanden C. 
Published: July 2012

SummaryThis paper will explore the effects of Acute Renal Failure (ARF) on the family of the patient. The patient's needs are the concern of the health care team and are more medically orientated than those of the family, whose needs are prevailingly social ones. However, the family's reactions do affect the patient and his/her response to their illness. The diagnosis of any major illness is devastating for the patient and his/her family, and in discussing ARF and its effects, it is possible to realise the common needs of the relatives of all acutely sick people. There is little written about the family's needs when ARF is diagnosed because of the commonalities with the diagnosis of any sudden critical illness. However it is in the relationships between the families and the specialist renal nurse where the differences lie. The partnership which develops in chronic renal care between the renal nurse and his/her patient translates onto the acute unit and makes the care that the specialist acute nurse provides different to other wards in a hospital. On diagnosis, the patient will be treated either on an Intensive Care Unit or in the acute haemodialysis unit depending on the causes of the renal failure and the co‐morbidities. The personnel treating the patient will differ depending where the treatment is delivered; but wherever the patient finds themselves the needs of the family are generally the same (1). There is much debate about where is the best place to treat people with ARF (2) but most patients are moved to the acute haemodialysis ward as soon as possible, where the specialist nursing staff have great influence over the treatment and care of the patient. It is here, where the expert nurse and his/her skills are most in evidence and the skills of the nurse are vital, as s/he will spend the most time with the patient (3). It is the time spent during treatment when the family can relate to one caregiver and relationships develop.
LIVING KIDNEY DONOR EXPERIENCES: IMPLICATIONS FOR COUNSELLING
Authors: Walsh A. 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARYThis study adds to previous, mostly quantitative, investigation into the experiences of living related kidney donors. Such investigation is important so that potential donors are supported effectively and donation programmes remain relevant and specific to need. Exploration takes place into donor decision‐making processes and the most effective forms of professional support. A non‐probability sampling technique highlighted eight living related kidney donors who were interviewed using a semi‐structured interview format. Raw data was analysed through the qualitative technique of Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. The decision to donate is made rapidly, decisively and rationally. Professional support provides reassurance to donors, particularly when experiencing acute psychological reaction. The need to provide support to the parents of living donors is specifically highlighted. A comprehensive range of Master Themes are generated through Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and these reflect the complexity of the donation experience. This suggests donors are concerned with the management of psychological experience rather than with reviewing the appropriateness of an original decision to donate. Evidence indicates that concepts of attitude and self‐efficacy belief can develop understanding of the psychological experience of being a living kidney donor. A counselling perspective, with Social Cognitive Theory at its core, is highlighted as a valid method for providing professional support to donors before and after surgery.
IMPROVING QUALITY OF ASSISTANCE AND OUTCOME IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS WITH ACUTE RENAL FAILURE
Authors: Sclauzero P. , Casarotto S. , Martingano M. , Morpurgo F. , Rocconi I. , Scala K. , Vescovi M. , Galli G. 
Published: July 2012

SUMMARYCollaboration between the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and nephrology nurses is needed to ensure adequate care of critically ill patients with acute renal failure (ARF). To improve this collaboration a questionnaire was circulated to the 122 ICU nurses in the hospital to appraise their knowledge on ARF. A Refresher Course to update on ARF was then organised. Colleagues' interest in the initiative was elevated: 66% of questionnaires were completed which included 88% of nurses attending the course. The experience showed, through measurable results, that team work is essential to collaborative nursing plans. The initiative allowed improvement in the quality of nurses' communication and was accompanied with a significant reduction in short‐term mortality rate of dialyzed ARF patients (45 versus 50%; p=0.045, chi‐square test). Despite the limitations of this short period of observation (one year) the results are judged as useful. Collaboration ensures support for colleagues on a daily basis and during critical moments and can encourage appreciation of the nursing profession.