bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Anastomotic Leak and its Prognosis in Digestive Surgery
Authors: Haga Yoshio , Wada Yasuo , Takeuchi Hitoshi , Ikejiri Koji , Ikenaga Masakazu 
Published: December 2010

AbstractBackgroundAnastomotic leak (AL) is a dangerous postoperative complication in gastrointestinal surgery. The present study focuses on whether our prediction scoring system, “Estimation of Physiologic Ability and Surgical Stress” (E‐PASS), could predict occurrence of AL and its prognosis in various kinds of gastrointestinal surgical procedures.MethodsWe prospectively investigated parameters of E‐PASS, absence or presence of AL, and in‐hospital mortality in 6,005 patients who underwent elective digestive surgery with alimentary tract reconstruction in 45 acute care hospitals in Japan between 1 April 2002 and 31 March 2007.ResultsIncidences of AL were 19.6% for esophagectomy via right thoracotomy and laparotomy, 11.7% for pancreaticoduodenectomy, 7.4% for low anterior resection, 4.0% for total gastrectomy, 1.8% for open distal gastrectomy, 1.3% for open colectomy, for an overall incidence of 4.1%. The incidence in each procedure significantly correlated with median value of surgical stress score of the E‐PASS (R = 0.78, n = 11, p = 0.0048). The incidences of AL increased when Total Risk Points (TRP) of the E‐PASS increased; 1.1% at the TRP range of <500, 2.8% at 500 to <1,000, 4.8% at 1,000 to <1,500, and 13.6% at ≥1,500 (p < 0.0001). In patients who suffered from AL, an in‐hospital mortality rate at TRP < 1,000 was significantly lower than that at TRP of ≥1,000 (1.1 vs. 15.9%; p = 0.00019).ConclusionsThe E‐PASS, requiring only nine variables, may be useful in predicting AL and its prognosis.
Arachidonic Acid Induces Production of 17,20β‐Dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (DHP) via a Putative PGE2 Receptor in Fish Follicles from the Eurasian Perch
Authors: Henrotte E. , Milla S. , Mandiki S. N. M. , Kestemont P. 
Published: December 2010

AbstractThe effects of docosahexaenoic, eicosaenoic and arachidonic acids (DHA, EPA and ARA, respectively) on sex‐steroid and prostaglandin (PG) production were investigated in Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) follicles using an in‐ vitro incubation technique. Only ARA was able to induce the production of 17,20β‐dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (DHP), the hormone produced by vitellogenic follicles undergoing final meiotic maturation, as well as the production of PGE2 and PGF2α by the follicles. This work also investigated, using a preliminary pharmacological approach, the presence of a functional PGE2‐like receptor in fish follicles. Exogenous PGE2 and butaprost (specific agonist of the EP2 receptor) stimulated DHP production. A second experiment assayed the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) production by the follicles after 24 h of incubation with the agonist and antagonist of the EP2 receptor. As observed in mammals, we concluded that the cAMP produced in response to PGE2 was probably mediated by an intracellular mechanism via a PGE2‐like receptor. This is the first pharmacological indication of this type of receptors in fish follicles. This study also indicates that ARA, and its derivatives, PGE2 and PGF2α, may act on final follicle maturation in Eurasian perch.
The influence of brace type on the success rate of the Ponseti treatment protocol for idiopathic clubfoot
Authors: Hemo Yoram , Segev Eitan , Yavor Ariella , Ovadia Dror , Wientroub Shlomo , Hayek Shlomo 
Published: December 2010

Purpose The success of the Ponseti method for treating idiopathic clubfoot deformity is dependent on the casting techniques and the adherence of the patient to the foot abduction brace protocol. Newly developed brace designs claim to be more comfortable, to be easier to use and to prevent dislodgement of the foot from the brace, making them more efficient and improving patient compliance. They are, however, more costly, and, therefore, accessible to fewer patients. We compared the compliance and treatment outcome using two brace designs, the traditional simple brace of pre-walking shoes attached to a Dennis Browne (DB) bar and the new sophisticated Mitchell brace. Methods We compared the functional outcome and compliance with the post-corrective bracing protocol of 38 children with idiopathic clubfoot treated in our institution using two brace designs. Twenty-one chose the DB brace and 17 chose the Mitchell brace. Results There was no difference in the compliance rate or in the final clinical and radiological outcomes of the two groups after a minimum of 2 years of follow-up. A positive correlation was found between the Pirani score at the beginning of treatment and the final functional score for both groups. Both groups were satisfied with the selected brace. Both groups were equally compliant with the brace protocol. Conclusion We conclude that new and more expensive brace designs do not necessarily provide better clinical results. Fully corrected foot and a strong family–treating team partnership are crucial to adherence with the brace protocol.
Impact of Preoperative Statin Therapy on Adverse Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Vascular Surgery
Authors: Le Manach Yannick , Ibanez Esteves Cristina , Bertrand Michelle , Goarin Jean Pierre , Fléron Marie-Hélène , Coriat Pierre , Koskas Fabien , Riou Bruno , Landais Paul 
Published: December 2010

Background
Chronic statin therapy is associated with reduced postoperative mortality. Renal and cardiovascular benefits have been described, but the effect of chronic statin therapy on postoperative adverse events has not yet been explored.

Methods
In this observational study involving 1,674 patients undergoing aortic reconstruction, we prospectively assessed chronic statin therapy compared with no statin therapy, with regard to serious outcomes, by propensity score and multivariable methods.

Results
In propensity-adjusted multivariable logistic regression (c-index: 0.83), statins were associated with an almost threefold reduction in the risk of death in patients undergoing major vascular surgery (odds ratio: 0.40; 95% CI: 0.28-0.59) and an almost twofold reduction in the risk of postoperative myocardial infarction (odds ratio: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.38-0.71). Likewise, the use of chronic statin therapy was associated with a reduced risk of postoperative stroke and renal failure. Statins did not significantly reduce the risk of pneumonia, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, and surgical complications; however, in the case of postoperative multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (odds ratio: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.12-0.94) and surgical complications (odds ratio: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.17-0.86), reduced mortality was observed.

Conclusions
Chronic statin therapy was associated with a reduction in all cardiac and vascular outcomes after major vascular surgery. Furthermore, in major adverse events, such as multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and surgical complications, statins were also associated with decreased mortality.
Human tools of the European tertiary? Artefacts, brains and minds in evolutionist reasoning, 1870–1920
Authors: Sommer Marianne 
Published: December 2010

This essay explores evolutionary reasoning and notions of progress at the turn of the twentieth century by focusing on the various interpretations used to understand eoliths. These ‘dawn’ (Greek
eos
) ‘stones’ (Greek
lithos
) were contested objects and I focus on three geographic episodes in which they were used to support scientific, and sometimes socially inspired, accounts of human origins. Particular attention is paid to the work of Gabriel de Mortillet (1821–98), James Reid Moir (1879–1944) and Henry Fairfield Osborn (1857–1935).
Associations ofCYP2A6genotype with smoking behaviors in southern China
Authors: Liu Tao , David Sean P. , Tyndale Rachel F. , Wang Hui , Zhou Qian , Ding Peng , He Yan‐Hui , Yu Xue‐Qing , Chen Wei , Crump Casey , Wen Xiao‐Zhong , Chen Wei‐Qing 
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACTAims To investigate the association ofCYP2A6genetic polymorphisms with smoking‐related phenotypes in Chinese smokers.Design Case‐only genetic association study.Setting Southern China.Participants A total of 1328 Han Chinese smokers who participated in a community‐based chronic disease screening project in Guangzhou and Zhuhai from 2006 to 2007.Measurements All participants answered a structured questionnaire about socio‐demographic status and smoking behaviors and informative alleles were genotyped for the cytochrome P450 2A6 (CYP2A6) gene (CYP2A6*4,*5,*7,*9and *10).Findings The frequencies ofCYP2A6*4, *5, *7, *9and *10alleles were 8.5, 1.2, 6.3, 13.5 and 2.4%, which corresponded to 48.9, 15.4, 24.2 and 11.5% of participants being classified as normal, intermediate, slow and poor metabolizers, respectively. Multivariate analyses in male smokers demonstrated that compared with normal metabolizers, poor metabolizers reported smoking fewer cigarettes per day [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.49; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.32–0.76], started smoking regularly later in life (adjusted OR = 1.55; 95% CI: 1.06–2.26) and, among former smokers, reported smoking for a shorter duration prior to quitting (adjusted OR = 0.33; 95% CI: 0.12–0.94). However, poor metabolizers were less likely to quit smoking and remain abstinent than normal metabolizers (adjusted OR = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.34–0.86).Conclusions Reduced metabolism function of cytochrome P450 2A6 in smokers appears to be associated with fewer cigarettes smoked, later initiation of smoking regularly, shorter smoking duration and lower likelihood of smoking cessation.
Alcohol‐related discussions in health care—a population view
Authors: Mäkelä Pia , Havio Marjaliisa , Seppä Kaija 
Published: December 2010

ABSTRACTAims  The present study aimed to evaluate the frequency and the target group of alcohol screening and brief interventions in health‐care settings and how well this level of activity reflects public opinion.Design  A general population survey.Setting and participants  A random sample of Finns aged 15–69 years with a 74% response rate (n = 2725).Measurements  Frequency counts were used to evaluate the level of activity. Logistic regression models were used to examine which groups were asked and advised about alcohol use and which groups considered it useful.Findings  More than 90% had positive attitudes towards being asked about their alcohol use. Of those who had been in contact with health care (n = 2062) in the 12 months before the survey, 33.3% had been asked about their alcohol use, being most often men, young, heavy drinkers and those of high socio‐economic status. Thirty‐seven per cent of those who had been asked were given advice, being most often heavy drinkers and those with a normal body mass index. However, 50% of heavy drinkers who had been asked about their alcohol use had not been advised about it. Of those who had been advised, 71.9% considered it useful, especially older subjects, and also including heavy episodic drinkers, although less than others.Conclusions  In Finland, the frequency of health‐care professionals asking and giving advice on alcohol is relatively low. However, public opinion towards these discussions is positive. Our results encourage the support and uptake of systematic screenings and brief interventions in health‐care settings.
Outcomes of a decision support prompt in community pharmacy‐dispensing software to promote step‐down of proton pump inhibitor therapy
Authors: Curtain Colin , Peterson Gregory M. , Tenni Peter , Bindoff Ivan K. , Williams Mackenzie 
Published: December 2010

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT• Computerized clinical decision support has been increasingly utilized in hospital and general‐practice settings where it may improve prescribing practice. Little investigation has been undertaken using computerized decision support in the community pharmacy setting. Proton pump inhibitors are expensive and often prescribed in dosages above recommended guidelines.WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS• This study adds justification for the use of computerized decision support in community pharmacy. It highlights the promotion of improved prescribing of proton pump inhibitors through patient empowerment.AIM To evaluate the effect of a computerized decision support prompt regarding high‐dose proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy on prescribing and medication costs.METHODS A prompt activated on dispensing high‐dose esomeprazole or pantoprazole was implemented in 73 of 185 pharmacies. Anonymized prescription data and a patient survey were used to determine changes in prescribing and associated medication costs.RESULTS The pharmacist‐recorded PPI intervention rate per 100 high‐dose PPI prescriptions was 1.67 for the PPI prompt group and 0.17 for the control group (P < 0.001). During the first 28 days of the trial, 196 interventions resulted in 34 instances of PPI step‐down, with 28 of these occurring in PPI prompt pharmacies. Cost savings attributable to the prompt were AUD 7.98 (£4.95) per month per PPI prompt pharmacy compared with AUD 1.05 (£0.65) per control pharmacy.CONCLUSION The use of electronic decision support prompts in community pharmacy practice can promote the quality use of medicines.
Basic ecological theory can inform habitat restoration for woodland birds
Authors: Huth Neil , Possingham Hugh P. 
Published: December 2010

Summary 1. Extensive clearing of native vegetation for agriculture has severely impacted upon Australia’s biodiversity. Environmental tree planting, forestry and restoration of existing remnant patches provide ways for improving the matrix habitat value between larger conservation areas. However, improved guidelines are required to inform land managers on appropriate ways to design these areas when resources for habitat improvement are limited. 2. We developed a simple habitat suitability model for woodland birds from two basic observations of ecology: (i) the species–area relationship and (ii) the relationship between bird species richness and vegetation structural diversity. The model provides a suite of species–area relationships for habitats of different structural diversity. Data from across Australia were used in developing the model to ensure its generality. 3. A single species–area relationship for patches from 2 ha to 16 million ha was estimated for high‐quality habitat patches using data from across mainland Australia. When this was combined with information on habitat complexity, the resultant species richness model was able to adequately describe the variation in woodland bird species richness within patches of various sizes (1–500 ha) in an independent data set from the Australian Capital Territory. 4. The results from the model suggest that for small patches of high quality, increases in patch size or quality reap benefits whereas the marginal return in species richness for increasing patch size is almost negligible for low quality patches above 10 ha or high quality patches of 20 ha. For small patches of low quality, there is little benefit in increasing patch area and so quality should be improved. These results agree with recommendations obtained using various other techniques. 5. Synthesis and applications. Investigation of the relationships embedded in the model provided similar recommendations for habitat restoration as determined by more detailed methods. The success of a simple combination of ecological principles linking area, structure and species richness supports the notion that existing basic theory can provide a sufficient basis for informing habitat restoration.
The potential of parasitoid Hymenoptera as bioindicators of arthropod diversity in agricultural grasslands
Authors: Anderson Annette , McCormack Stephen , Helden Alvin , Sheridan Helen , Kinsella Anne , Purvis Gordon 
Published: December 2010

Summary 1. As measuring biodiversity in its entirety is impractical, there is a need for bioindicators. This study tested the hypothesis that parasitoid Hymenoptera are potential bioindicators that provide a useful means to assess the wider biodiversity of arthropod populations in agro‐ecosystems. There are a range of theoretical arguments to support such a claim, including the high trophic position of these taxa within the arthropod communities in which they occur, and the unique nature of their biological relationships with the majority of terrestrial arthropod groups. 2. A survey of 48 commercial farms was conducted and Generalized Linear Models used to investigate relationships between six taxa—parasitoid Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Diptera, Araneae and plants (species richness and sward height)—in agricultural grasslands. As well as relationships between these groups, the relationship of each individual group to the overall biodiversity of all other arthropod groups was explored. 3. Both abundance (r2 = 0·58) and taxon richness (r2 = 0·54) of parasitoid Hymenoptera had stronger relationships with overall arthropod taxon richness than any other arthropod group investigated. Parasitoid abundance also had a positive relationship with species richness of Coleoptera (r2 = 0·23) and Hemiptera (r2 = 0·47). 4. An historical data set demonstrated how the relationship between parasitoid abundance and overall arthropod taxon richness changes over the growing season. July, when the relationship was strongest, is potentially the most useful time to sample. 5. For use in routine monitoring, it is important that an effort be made to understand the seasonal influence on the relationship in the context being studied. Equal sampling effort must be made for all sites being compared and sites should be sampled as close together in the season as is possible. 6. Synthesis and applications. We show that, within agricultural grasslands, both the abundance and taxon richness of parasitoid Hymenoptera are more closely related with overall arthropod diversity than any other arthropod group investigated. The use of parasitoid abundance provides a simple and practicable monitoring tool for tracking change in wider arthropod diversity in agro‐ecosystems.
Species‐specific tree growth responses to 9 years of CO2 enrichment at the alpine treeline
Authors: Dawes Melissa A. , Hättenschwiler Stephan , Bebi Peter , Hagedorn Frank , Handa Ira Tanya , Körner Christian , Rixen Christian 
Published: December 2010

Summary 1. Using experimental atmospheric CO2 enrichment, we tested for tree growth stimulation at the high‐elevation treeline, where there is overwhelming evidence that low temperature inhibits growth despite an adequate carbon supply. We exposed Larix decidua (European larch) and Pinus mugo ssp. uncinata (mountain pine) to 9 years of free‐air CO2 enrichment (FACE) in an in situ experiment at treeline in the Swiss Alps (2180 m a.s.l.). 2. Accounting for pre‐treatment vigour of individual trees, tree ring increments throughout the experimental period were larger in Larix growing under elevated CO2 but not in Pinus. The magnitude of the CO2 response in Larix ring width varied over time, with a significant stimulation occurring in treatment years 3–7 (marginal in year 6). 3. After 9 years of treatment, leaf canopy cover, stem basal area and total new shoot production were overall greater in Larix trees growing under elevated CO2, whereas Pinus showed no such cumulative growth response. The Larix ring width response in years 3–7 could have caused the cumulative CO2 effect on tree size even if no further stimulation occurred, so it remains unclear if responsiveness was sustained over the longer term. 4. Larix ring width was stimulated more by elevated CO2 in years with relatively high spring temperatures and an early snowmelt date, suggesting that temperatures were less limiting in these years and greater benefit was gained from extra carbon assimilated under elevated CO2. The magnitude of CO2 stimulation was also larger after relatively high temperatures and high solar radiation in the preceding growing season, perhaps reflecting gains due to larger carbon reserves. 5. Synthesis. Contrasting above‐ground growth responses of two treeline tree species to elevated CO2 concentrations suggest that Larix will have a competitive advantage over less responsive species, such as co‐occurring Pinus, under future CO2 concentrations. Stimulation of Larix growth might be especially pronounced in a future warmer climate.
Seagrass genotypic diversity increases disturbance response via complementarity and dominance
Authors: Randall Hughes A. , Stachowicz John J. 
Published: December 2010

Summary 1. Genetic diversity, like species diversity, can enhance resistance or resilience to perturbation. However, we know little about how disturbance intensity affects this relationship or what mechanisms underlie the positive effects of genetic diversity. 2. We experimentally tested the independent and interactive effects of seagrass genotypic diversity (two levels) and disturbance (three levels) on seagrass biomass in a 2‐year field experiment. 3. Our results indicate that genotypic diversity enhances seagrass resilience from experimental biomass removal, but only at the highest level of disturbance; in the absence of disturbance, monocultures out‐perform polycultures over the short term. 4. Following recovery from the planned experimental disturbance, a natural macroalgal bloom caused a loss of seagrass shoots in our plots. In this case polycultures lost fewer shoots than monocultures (i.e. were more resistant to the disturbance), and this positive effect of genetic diversity persisted until the end of the experiment (1 year in total, including 6 months after all plots had recovered to pre‐disturbance densities). At the end of the 2‐year experiment, polycultures had higher shoot density and above‐ground biomass than monocultures. 5. The positive effects of diversity on shoot density and biomass were caused by both trait‐independent complementarity (TIC; due to differential resource use among clones) and positive dominance (due to one genotype achieving high density in both monoculture and polyculture). 6.
Synthesis. Our results confirm that genetic diversity, like species diversity, can influence disturbance response and does so via similar mechanisms. They also highlight that over longer time frames, these effects are likely to result from a complex mix of dominance and complementarity mechanisms that depend on the traits of the specific taxa involved and the response variables of interest.