bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accuracy and modifying factors of the sonographic estimation of fetal weight in a high‐risk population
Authors: Edwards Andrew , GofF Jo , Baker Lesleigh 
Published: February 2008

Summary: There have been a number of reviews assessing the accuracy of different methods of sonographic estimation of fetal weight, without identifying any clearly superior equation. In order to optimise accuracy in a high‐risk population, we decided to compare some of the most popular early equations with the newer volume‐based equations, and to try and identify factors that affect the ability of these equations to estimate fetal weight accurately.We collected the scan and delivery details of 192 fetuses born within one week of a sonographic estimation of fetal weight. We then applied three of the most popular equations and two newer volume‐based equations to the recorded fetal biometric parameters to assess the performance of each equation overall, and under varying maternal, fetal, and scan conditions.The equations of Shepard, Hadlock A, Hadlock B and Combs produced similar results with systematic (mean) errors in the range 1.2‐1.9% and random error characterised by one standard deviation in the range of 8.6–9.5%. Dudley's volume‐based equation produced a significant systematic error in the form of a mean error of 7.4%, which corresponds to a mean birthweight (BW) which is 7.4% above the mean estimated fetal weight (EFW).When we stratified the study group by birthweight, Combs' equation produced significant differences in the mean error, (p < 0.00001), that ranged from a mean overestimation in fetal weight of 8.5% for babies with BW < 1000 g to a mean underestimation in fetal weight of 6.2% for babies with BW > 3000 g. Oligohydramnios resulted in a trend towards an increased mean error for all equations which was only statistically significant for Hadlock B.The equations Shepard and Hadlock A performed best in our high‐risk population. They produced the smallest systematic errors across the entire study group and were not adversely affected by variations in birthweight, liquor volume, or fetal presentation. The newer, volume‐based equations were disappointing, producing large systematic errors. Large random errors in all equations continue to be the Achilles' heel that limit the value of sonographic EFW.
An improved system of bladder drainage
Authors: Hewson AD 
Published: February 2008

Summary: We report the successful use of a modified No. 8 infant feeding tube for postoperative bladder drainage in 100 gynaecological patients after surgery.In previous years, problems arising from the use of transurethral postoperative catheter drainage led to the use of various types of suprapubic catheter drainage after gynaecological surgery. However, this method of catheter drainage still carries the risk of complications, and many surgeons have preferred to persist with transurethral bladder drainage. Several authors have described the post‐operative use of a small diameter transurethral feeding tube so as to enable the patient to void around the tube, thus avoiding the risks of repeated reinsertion of a catheter if there is delay in re‐establishment of normal voiding. The simplicity of this method and its low cost encouraged us to carry out a trial of the method and we have introduced some modifications to improve the technique.Our experience of the method and the positive comments from nursing staff and patients have led us to adopt it for most of our postoperative gynaecological patients and we believe it deserves wider use.
Body composition and energy metabolism in pregnancy
Authors: Martin Allison , Brown Mark A , O'Sullivan Anthony J 
Published: February 2008

Summary: The objective of the study was to measure energy metabolism and body composition during pregnancy and postpartum, compared to non‐pregnant women, using non‐invasive techniques.A longitudinal study of eight normotensive pregnant women was carried out at 19 ± 1 and 36 ± 1 weeks gestation, and postpartum. A cross‐sectional study was also performed comparing postpartum to 12 nonpregnant women. Indirect calorimetry was performed while fasting to measure basal metabolic rate (BMR) and postprandially to measure diet‐induced thermogenesis (DIT). Body composition consists of fat mass, lean body mass (LBM), and total body water (TBW) and was measured by bio‐electrical impedance. Insulin resistance was indirectly assessed by glucose and insulin concentration and DIT.Weight gain in pregnancy was predominantly fat mass (p < 0.01), but LBM and TBW also increased (p < 0.01). Weight loss postpartum was comprised of fat mass, LBM and TBW (p < 0.01). BMR, glucose and insulin increased in pregnancy and decreased postpartum (p < 0.05), but DIT was unchanged. The BMR was not correlated with weight gain. Apart from fat mass, postpartum and non‐pregnant women were similar. The insulin resistance increased insulin and glucose levels but not DIT.Fat mass was the major component of weight gain during pregnancy and there was an increase in BMR, glucose and insulin but no change in DIT. BMR decreased to normal but fat mass remained elevated 16 weeks post‐partum.
Personal preferences of obstetricians towards childbirth
Authors: Land Russell , Parry Emma , Rane Ajay , Wilson Don 
Published: February 2008

Summary: Our objective was to determine obstetricians' personal choices in relation to modes of delivery and long‐term outcomes.A structured confidential survey was mailed out to all Australian and New Zealand Fellows, Members, and Australian Trainees with The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology November 1999 edition. The response rate overall was 26% (478). Eleven per cent (54) chose to have an elective Caesarean section (ECS) in the absence of any clinical indication. The most common reason for this was fear of faecal and urinary incontinence (82%). Two‐thirds (318) were agreeable to patients requesting an ECS in this same setting. Twenty‐six per cent said they would choose ECS if the estimated tetal weignt (EFW) was > 4000g which more than doubled to 55% (261) if EFW was > 4500 g. Ventouse delivery was the most popular method of assisted rotational delivery at 45% (214) followed closely by Keilland's forceps at 40% (189). Caesarean section (CS) was chosen by only 14% (65) in this scenario. ECS was the preferred method for breech delivery at 38% (181) followed by trial of breech delivery at 23% (109). Thirty‐two per cent (154) of respondents would attempt external cephalic version prior to deciding mode of delivery. Respondents felt the most important factors for postnatal incontinence included: antenatal incontinence (64%), length of second stage > one hour (50%), forceps delivery (46%), and EFW > 4000 gat term (44%).
Laparoscopic assisted Doderlein hysterectomy: initial experience in a provincial Australian centre
Authors: Craig Simon , Giltrap Scott 
Published: February 2008

Summary: Despite the theoretical advantages that laparoscopic hysterectomy techniques offer, this is not a commonly performed operation in Australia.The laparoscopically assisted Doderlein hysterectomy is a technique that offers significant advantages in speed, ease of performance, and low cost.We describe our technique and results of the first 36 cases performed for a range of clinical indications and uterine weights, using widely available and non‐disposable equipment. Operating time (including adjunctive operations) varied from 48 to 165 minutes and no significant complications were encountered.
Notification of Papanicolaou smear results: a survey of women's experiences and preferred means of notification
Authors: Peres Matthew , Wellman Michelle 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARYIn a population of Australian women attending a colposcopy clinic, we aimed to establish the method by which they were notified of their Pap smear result, who notified them of their result, and if given the choice, how they would prefer to be notified.Of women attending a colposcopy clinic between October 1998 and June 1999, 59.7% participated in the survey. There was a final sample of 210 women after exclusion of questionnaires with missing data.The doctor most often notified women of their Pap smear result (81.7%). The usual methods of notification were by a follow‐up appointment (43.1%), by a telephone call (35.8%) or with a letter (13.8%); 42% of women preferred to be notified with a mailed copy of the report and explanation of follow‐up; 29.6% preferred to be telephoned with the result, and 11.3% would prefer a follow‐up appointment. Women preferred methods of notification which were initiated by the doctor. Women have varying preferences, which commonly differ from the current services provided by both GPs and colposcopy clinic. To overcome this, women could be asked to nominate their preferred method of notification when completing the cervical smear request form.
A portable, disposable device for patient‐controlled epidural analgesia following Caesarean section: evaluation by patients and nurses
Authors: Banks Samantha , Pavy Timothy 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARYTwenty patients undergoing elective Caesarean section were provided with a pethidine‐primed disposable Go Medical epidural infuser for postoperative pain control. Patients and nurses evaluated the device by completing a questionnaire.The infuser delivered adequate analgesia, was easy to understand and use, provided the patients with control over their pain relief and allowed good mobility. The nursing staff found the device easy to prime and understand, the only drawback being the occasional incidence of equipment failure. The patients expressed a high level of satisfaction with the device and all would use it again if offered the chance.We conclude that the Go Medical epidural infuser is a safe and effective device as used in the postnatal ward setting.
Carrying their own medical records: the perspective of pregnant women
Authors: Phipps Hala 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARYFreedom of information, access to and ownership of medical records are current and controversial issues in Australia. Relating to pregnancy and birth the debate provokes emotional responses and raises important questions about access to information, decision‐making, responsibility, power and control.The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the impact on pregnant women of carrying their medical records throughout pregnancy. Twenty‐one women participated in face‐to‐face individual interviews, which were coded for thematic analysis. The study found the reaction of women toward carrying their own records to be overwhelmingly positive. Maternal record holding had the potential to improve the level of communication between the health care worker and the pregnant woman and provided a greater sense of sharing and communication within the family.The study also established that maternal record holding was of benefit to the woman's partner who was better informed and more involved in the pregnancy. All but one of the women who participated favoured carrying their records in subsequent pregnancies. A concern about the potential for losing or misplacing records was not seen in this study, as no women lost their records. A sense of ownership would argue against this possible drawback.
A randomised trial of oral versus vaginal administration of misoprostol for the purpose of mid‐trimester termination of pregnancy
Authors: Gilbert A , Reid R 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARYA prospective randomised controlled trial was undertaken to compare the efficacy of two routes of administration, oral versus vaginal, of the prostaglandin El analogue misoprostol (Cytotec) to effect termination of pregnancy in the mid‐trimester.Fifty‐five women were recruited into the trial; 26 to receive all doses orally and 29 via the vaginal route. The dosing regimen was 400 μg as the initial dose followed by a second dose of 200 μg two hours later and then four‐hourly 200 μg doses until delivery or 32 hours from commencement of treatment. If delivery had not been effected by the last dose of misoprostol, a Syntocinon infusion was started synchronously Misoprostol administered vaginally was significantly more effective than when administered orally as judged by induction‐to‐delivery interval and also the need or otherwise to augment therapy with a Syntocinon infusion. The average induction‐to‐delivery interval was 17.5 hours in the vaginal group compared to 33 hours in the oral group (p = 0.0003). The percentages of women who delivered at 24 and 48 hours were 93% and 100% in the vaginal administration group and 19% and 70% in the oral administration group (p < 0.05). No significant differences in complication rates or side effects were noted between the two groups
Identification of unique gene expression patterns within different lesional sites of keloids
Authors: Seifert Oliver , Bayat Ardeshir , Geffers Robert , Dienus Kirstin , Buer Jan , Löfgren Sture , Matussek Andreas 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACTKeloid disease is a significant clinical problem, especially in black populations, with an estimated incidence of 4–16%. Keloids are fibroproliferative dermal tumors developing as a result of deregulated wound healing. The dynamic nature of keloids is illustrated by clinical regression in the center, while the margin remains active growing into the surrounding healthy skin. Therefore, the gene expression profiles of fibroblasts from different sites of the keloids were characterized using Affymetrix microarrays covering the whole human genome. This study revealed 105 genes that were differentially regulated (79 genes were up‐regulated and 26 down‐regulated) in a unique gene expression profile in different sites of keloids where progression or regression of the process was in progress. The apoptosis inhibitor AVEN was found to be up‐regulated at the active margin of keloids, while apoptosis‐inducing genes such as ADAM12 and genes inducing extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation such as matrix metalloproteinase‐19 were up‐regulated in the regressing keloid center. We identified genes previously not described in the development of keloids. Activating proapoptotic genes or inhibiting ECM‐inducing genes as INHBA or monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 might be possible target genes for new treatment strategies for keloid disease.
Purification of R‐phycoerythrin from Porphyra haitanensis (Bangiales, Rhodophyta) using expanded‐bed absorption1
Authors: Niu Jian‐Feng , Wang Guang‐Ce , Zhou Bai‐Cheng , Lin Xiang‐Zhi , Chen Chang‐Sheng 
Published: February 2008

R‐phycoerythrin (R‐PE) was purified from leafy gametophyte of Porphyra haitanensis T. J. Chang et B. F. Zheng (Bangiales, Rhodophyta) by a simple, scaleable procedure. Initially, phycobiliproteins were extracted by repeated freeze‐thaw cycles, resulting in release from the algal cells by osmotic shock. Next, R‐PE was recovered by applying the crude extract with a high concentration of (NH4)2SO4 salt directly to the expanded‐bed columns loaded with phenyl‐sepharose. An expanded‐bed volume twice the settled‐bed volume was maintained; then low (NH4)2SO4 concentration was used to develop the column. After two rounds of hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC), R‐PE was purified by anion‐exchange column. The method was also successful with free‐living conchocelis of P. haitanensis. The purified R‐PE was identified with electrophoresis, and absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy. The results were in agreement with those previously reported. The yield with a spectroscopic purity (OD565/OD280) higher than 3.2 (the ratio of A565/A620 ≤ 0.02) was 1.4 mg · g−1 of leafy gametophyte of P. haitanensis. For the free‐living conchocelis of P. haitanensis extract, R‐PE could be purified successfully with only one round of HIC. The yield with a spectroscopic purity (OD565/OD280) higher than 3.2 (the ratio of A565/A620 ≤ 0.02) was 5.0 mg · g−1 of free‐living conchocelis of P. haitanensis. The method described here is a scaleable technology that allows a large quantity of R‐PE to be recovered from the unclarified P. haitanensis crude extract. It is also a high protein recovery technology, reducing both processing costs and times, which enhances the value of this endemic Porphyra of China.
Ablation of Posteroseptal and Left Posterior Accessory Pathways Guided by Left Atrium–Coronary Sinus Musculature Activation Sequence
Authors: PAP RÓBERT , TRAYKOV VASSIL B. , MAKAI ATTILA , BENCSIK GÁBOR , FORSTER TAMÁS , SÁGHY LÁSZLÓ 
Published: February 2008

Introduction: While some posteroseptal and left posterior accessory pathways (APs) can be ablated on the tricuspid annulus or within the coronary venous system, others require a left‐sided approach. “Fragmented” or double potentials are frequently recorded in the coronary sinus (CS), with a smaller, blunt component from left atrial (LA) myocardium, and a larger, sharp signal from the CS musculature. Methods and Results: Forty patients with posteroseptal or left posterior AP were included. The LA–CS activation sequence was determined at the earliest site during retrograde AP conduction. Eleven APs (27.5%) were ablated on the tricuspid annulus (right endocardial), 9 (22.5%) inside the coronary venous system (epicardial), and 20 (50%) on the mitral annulus (left endocardial). A “fragmented” or double “atrial” potential was recorded in all patients inside the CS at the earliest site during retrograde AP conduction. Sharp potential from the CS preceded the LA blunt component (sharp/blunt sequence) in all patients with an epicardial AP, and in 10 of 11 (91%) patients with a right endocardial AP. Therefore, 18 of 19 (95%) APs ablated by a right‐sided approach produced this pattern. The reverse sequence (blunt/sharp) was recorded in 19 of 20 (95%) patients with a left endocardial AP. Conclusion: During retrograde AP conduction, the sequence of LA–CS musculature activation—as deduced from analysis of electrograms recorded at the earliest site inside the CS—can differentiate posteroseptal and left posterior APs that require left heart catheterization from those that can be eliminated by a totally venous approach.
CD44 and hyaluronan engagement promotes dexamethasone resistance in human myeloma cells
Authors: Ohwada Chikako , Nakaseko Chiaki , Koizumi Masayuki , Takeuchi Masahiro , Ozawa Shinichi , Naito Megumi , Tanaka Hiroaki , Oda Kayo , Cho Ryuko , Nishimura Miki , Saito Yasushi 
Published: February 2008

AbstractDexamethasone (Dex) is an effective therapeutic agent against multiple myeloma (MM); however, resistance to it often becomes a clinical issue. CD44 is an adhesion molecule that serves as a cell surface receptor for extracellular matrix components, including hyaluronan (HA). HA is an extracellular matrix component that is involved in survival and progression in MM. In the present report, we describe isolation of a CD44‐expressing population from a Dex‐sensitive MM cell line, RPMI8226, in which the CD44‐high population had a significantly higher potential to resist Dex than did the CD44‐low population. Furthermore, we demonstrate that CD44 engagement by an anti‐CD44 monoclonal antibody (mAb) or HA protects MM cells from Dex‐induced growth inhibition. The activity of HA was partially inhibited by blocking its binding to CD44, indicating that CD44 mediates HA activity promoting MM cell survival. CD44 engagement by an anti‐CD44 mAb led to phosphorylation and degradation of IκB‐α, thus preventing its Dex‐induced up‐regulation. Our data suggest that CD44 is not only an important mediator for the survival activity of HA, but it may also contribute to MM cell resistance to Dex.
Identification and characterization of the first large deletion of the MYH9 gene associated with MYH9 disorders
Authors: Kunishima Shinji , Matsushita Tadashi , Hamaguchi Motohiro , Saito Hidehiko 
Published: February 2008

AbstractMYH9 disorders are autosomal dominant macrothrombocytopenias with leukocyte inclusion bodies. Single point mutations in the protein‐coding sequence of the MYH9 gene are the most common cause. So far no large gene deletion/insertion and splicing defects have been reported. Conventional DNA sequencing of each MYH9‐coding exon showed no abnormalities in a patient. Reverse transcription‐ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and sequencing of neutrophil mRNA identified an inframe deletion of exon 25. Further long‐range PCR amplification of genomic DNA revealed a deletion of 1220 nucleotides including entire exon 25. Immunoblot analysis showed a small, abnormal protein in neutrophils but not in platelets. This is the first report of a large deletion of the MYH9 gene leading to the development of MYH9 disorders.
Age‐matched lymphocyte subpopulation reference values in childhood and adolescence: application of exponential regression analysis
Authors: Huenecke Sabine , Behl Michael , Fadler Carla , Zimmermann Stefanie Y. , Bochennek Konrad , Tramsen Lars , Esser Ruth , Klarmann Dieter , Kamper Martina , Sattler Alexandra , von Laer Dorothee , Klingebiel Thomas , Lehrnbecher Thomas , Koehl Ulrike 
Published: February 2008

AbstractBackground:  Normal values of lymphocyte subpopulations for healthy children and adults have been published in defined age groups exclusively, which results in difficult data interpretation for patients close to the limit of contiguous age group ranges. In addition, normal values for a number of lymphocyte subpopulations have not been established to date.Objective:  The aim of this study was to develop a model which provides continuous age‐dependent reference values. This model was applied for lymphocyte subpopulations such as naïve and memory T cells as well as their activation profile with diagnostic relevance in children and adults.Study design:  A total of 100 blood samples, obtained from 80 healthy children and 20 adults were analysed by means of four colour‐flow cytometry. Continuous age‐dependent reference values were computed based on the residual values in an exponential regression model.Results:  We calculated a continuous age‐related regression model for both, absolute cell counts and percentages of CD3+CD4+ T helper (TH) cells, CD3+CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, CD56+CD3− natural killer (NK) cells, CD56+CD3+ T cells, CD3+CD4+CD45RA+ naïve TH cells, CD3+CD4+CD45RO+ memory TH cells, CD3+CD8+CD45RA+CD28+ naïve cytotoxic T cells, CD3+CD8+CD45RO+ memory cytotoxic T cells, CD3+CD8+CD69+ early activated cytotoxic T cells and CD3+CD8+HLA‐DR+ late activated cytotoxic T cells, respectively, to obtain reference values.Conclusion:  Based on an exponential regression model, the obtained reference values reflect the continuous maturation of lymphocyte subsets during childhood.
Speed and selection in the evolution of killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors
Authors: Martinez‐Borra J. , Khakoo S. I. 
Published: February 2008

SummaryThe killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIR) form a diverse family of receptors that control the functions of natural killer cells. Sequencing of KIR from primates has revealed the unexpected extent to which this gene family has diversified mostly likely in response to pathogens and to pathogen‐mediated selection of their MHC class I ligands. Human KIR diversity is now a burgeoning area for disease association studies. This review examines the evolution of KIR from a primate‐centric view in order to rationalize our current knowledge of the diversity of human KIR.
Synthesis of Methods, Rules, and Issues of Standardizing Nursing Intervention Language Mapping
Authors: Delaney Connie , Moorhead Sue 
Published: February 2008

TOPIC. Nursing language mapping. PURPOSE. To synthesize the methods, rules and issues described in two studies that mapped nonstandardized nursing orderslinterventions into the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC). SOURCES. The methods and results of studies conducted by Moorhead & Delaney and Coenen et al. CONCLUSIONS. Results indicate that the NIC is an effective classification of mapping nursing orders/interventions to support across‐site comparisons of nursing treatments. A set of decision rules to support mapping of interventions to the NIC is outlined.