bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors prevent 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine‐induced 5‐HT deficits in the rat
Authors: Puerta Elena , Hervias Isabel , Goñi‐Allo Beatriz , Lasheras Berta , Jordan Joaquin , Aguirre Norberto 
Published: December 2008

AbstractPhosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are often used in combination with club drugs such as 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy). We investigated the consequences of such combination in the serotonergic system of the rat. Oral administration of sildenafil citrate (1.5 or 8 mg/kg) increased brain cGMP levels and protected in a dose‐dependent manner against 5‐hydroxytryptamine depletions caused by MDMA (3 × 5 mg/kg, i.p., every 2 h) in the striatum, frontal cortex and hippocampus without altering the acute hyperthermic response to MDMA. Intrastriatal administration of the protein kinase G (PKG) inhibitor, KT5823 [(9S, 10R, 12R)‐2,3,9,10,11,12‐Hexahydro‐10‐methoxy‐2,9‐dimethyl‐1‐oxo‐9,12‐epoxy‐1H‐diindolo[1,2,3‐fg:3′,2′,1′‐kl]pyrrolo[3,4‐i][1,6]benzodiazocine‐10‐carboxylic acid, methyl ester)], suppressed sildenafil‐mediated protection. By contrast, the cell permeable cGMP analogue, 8‐bromoguanosine cyclic 3′,5′‐monophosphate, mimicked sildenafil effects further suggesting the involvement of the PKG pathway in mediating sildenafil protection. Because mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+channels are a target for PKG, we next administered the specific mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+channel blocker, 5‐hydroxydecanoic acid, 30 min before sildenafil. 5‐hydroxydecanoic acid completely reversed the protection afforded by sildenafil, thereby implicating the involvement of mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+channels. Sildenafil also increased Akt phosphorylation, and so the possible involvement of the Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/sGC signalling pathway was analysed. Neither the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibitor, wortmannin, nor the selective eNOS inhibitor,l‐N5‐(1‐iminoethyl)‐l‐ornithine dihydrochloride, reversed the protection afforded by sildenafil, suggesting that Akt/eNOS/sGC cascade does not participate in the protective mechanisms. Our data also show that the protective effect of sildenafil can be extended to vardenafil, another PDE5 inhibitor. In conclusion, sildenafil protects against MDMA‐induced long‐term reduction of indoles by a mechanism involving increased production of cGMP and subsequent activation of PKG and mitochondrial ATP‐sensitive K+channel opening.
Debate: Substitution of generic drugs in epilepsy: Is there cause for concern?
Authors: Gidal Barry E. , Tomson Torbjörn 
Published: December 2008

SummaryThe role of generic drugs in both the US and global marketplace has been steadily increasing over the last few years. Although generic drugs clearly represent an important economic alternative for many patients, there are reasons for concern in certain disease states. Recently, the substitution of antiepileptic drugs in patients with epilepsy has gained increased attention. Concerns over potential therapeutic inequivalence has prompted many clinicians to question current regulatory requirements for both establishing bioequivalence, as well as product substitution. The objective of this article is to present arguments both for and against the use of generic drugs and practice of generic substitution in patients with epilepsy. Regulatory requirements, pharmacokinetic methodology, and biopharmaceutical considerations are discussed.
Mechanistic and pharmacologic aspects of status epilepticus and its treatment with new antiepileptic drugs
Authors: Wasterlain Claude G. , Chen James W. Y. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryWe review recent advances in our understanding and treatment of status epilepticus (SE). Repeated seizures cause an internalization of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)Areceptors, together with a movement ofN‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors to the synapse. As a result, the response of experimental SE to treatment with GABAergic drugs (but not with NMDA antagonists) fades with increasing seizure duration. Prehospital treatment, which acts before these changes are established, is finding increased acceptance, and solid evidence of its efficacy is available, particularly in children. Rational polypharmacy aims at multiple receptors or ion channels to increase inhibition and simultaneously reduce excitation. Combining GABAAagonists with NMDA antagonists and with agents acting at other sites is successful in treating experimental SE, and in reducing SE‐induced brain damage and epileptogenesis. The relevance of these experimental data to clinical SE is actively debated. Valproate and levetiracetam have recently become available for intravenous use, and the use of ketamine and of other agents (topiramate, felbamate, etc.) have seen renewed interest. A rapidly increasing but largely anecdotal body of literature reports success in seizure control at the price of relatively few complications with the clinical use of those agents in refractory SE.
The role of the newer antiepileptic drugs in the treatment of generalized convulsive status epilepticus
Authors: Wheless James W. , Treiman David M. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryThe emergency treatment of seizures is an important practical issue, especially the treatment of generalized convulsive status epilepticus (GCSE). Benzodiazepines or older standard antiepileptic drugs (phenobarbital, phenytoin) have typically been used as initial intravenous treatment of GCSE. As new parenteral antiepileptic drugs are developed, and more are on the horizon, questions are raised regarding their role in the treatment of status epilepticus (SE). This review discusses the evidence for the treatment of GCSE, including the newer agents (valproate, levetiracetam). We correlate the treatment of SE with our modern understanding of the underlying neurophysiology and seizure duration.
A toll‐like receptor 4 variant is associated with fatal outcome in children with invasive meningococcal disease
Authors: Faber Joerg , Henninger Nicole , Finn Adam , Zenz Werner , Zepp Fred , Knuf Markus 
Published: December 2008

AbstractAims: Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) is the major endotoxin signalling receptor of the innate immune system and is required for efficient recognition of bacterial infections. Here, we analysed a possible association between the TLR4 variant Asp299Gly and disease outcome in children with invasive meningococcal disease.Methods: In total, 197 children with invasive meningococcal disease were analysed for the TLR4 Asp299Gly variant. Genotyping results were correlated with mortality, the frequency of ventilation support, application of inotropic substances, skin grafting, and limb loss.Results: The overall Asp299Gly allele frequency was 9.4%. Detection of a heterozygous Asp299Gly TLR4 mutation was significantly associated with fatal outcome (non‐survivor group: 31.6% vs. survivor group: 12.1%; p = 0.021) and was even more pronounced in patients with disease onset less than 24 months of age (non‐survivor group: 42.8% vs. survivor group: 10.2%; p = 0.006). In this age group, ventilation support was also more frequent in patients with the Asp299Gly genotype (37.5% vs. 6.2%).Conclusion: Our data suggest that the heterozygous TLR4 Asp299Gly genotype is associated with an increased mortality in children with invasive meningococcal disease.
Comparison between complete denture and implant‐retained overdenture: effect of different mucosa thickness and resiliency on stress distribution
Authors: Assunçāo Wirley Gonçalves , Barāo Valentim Adelino Ricardo , Tabata Lucas Fernando , De Sousa Edson Antonio Capello , Gomes Erica Alves , Delben Juliana Aparecida 
Published: December 2008

Background:  The effect of different mucosa characteristics on stress distribution of complete dentures and overdentures remains unknown.Objective:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different mucosa thickness and resiliency on the stress distribution of complete dentures and implant‐retained overdentures using a two‐dimensional finite element analysis.Material and methods:  Representative models of the edentulous mandible were constructed on AutoCAD software according to the groups’ characteristics. In group CD, a model of the edentulous mandible supporting a complete denture was obtained while in group IO, a model of edentulous mandible supporting an overdenture over two unsplinted implants with an o’ ring system was constructed. In each group, mucosa assumed three characteristics of thickness (1, 3 and 5 mm) corresponding to the resiliencies hard, resilient and soft respectively. Evaluation was performed on Ansys software with 100N vertical load applied on central incisor teeth. The principal stress was used as analysis criteria.Results:  Group IO showed higher stress values than group CD regardless of mucosal thickness and resiliency. Stress decreased at the supporting tissues in both groups as the thickness and resiliency of mucosa increased. In relation to the supporting tissues, cortical bone showed the highest stress values.Conclusion:  It was concluded that the use of an attachment system increases stress values and the thickness and resiliency of mucosa influence more on these values.
INTERVIEWING VERY OLD PEOPLE
Authors: Job E. , Johansen C. , Jones J. , Spenceley E. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryInterviewing is an interactional situation par excellence. Nevertheless situational, respondent, and interviewer effect can be distinguished, all of which introduce biases. These biases are best dealt with by bringing them out into the open at all stages of the research, so that their effects can be recognised and allowed for. Finally, some suggestions have been made for the interviewing of very old people. They include the reminder that such respondents are highly individual, and cannot be adequately described by stereotypes; but consideration should be shown for common disabilities such as hearing loss. Respondents should be allowed to set their own pace, however slow that may seem to the interviewer, and as far as possible, their own choice of emphasis on topics. And like respondents of all ages, they must be interviewed only with their full consent and understanding, and accorded the respect due to one human being by another.
THE AGEING ADULT PLAYING SIMULATION GAMES
Authors: Feingold Olga 
Published: December 2008

SummaryIn 1975, the writer carried out a pilot study on the change of attitudes, the perception of self and of others, interactional behaviour and learning outcomes among the ageing adults participating in simulation games. The average age of the participants was 64. All of them (N= 33) have been the students of her tutorial class “Human Relations”, at the Sydney School for Seniors (the Wesley Centre). The simulation games included “Survival”, “Bafa–Bafa”, “Star Power”, and some games organised for the study purposes.
A CARE CENTRE FOR HUNTINGTON'S DISEASE: CONFRONTING ATTITUDES TO CHRONIC TERMINAL ILLNESS.
Authors: Ball Alison 
Published: December 2008

AbstractThis paper first describes the Arthur Preston Centre at Mary's Mount in Balwyn, Victoria and what Huntington's Disease is. It then discusses the old attitudes to this chronic, terminal illness and the confrontation with these attitudes presented to sufferers and families. The type of care offered at the Centre is described and the ways in which the experience at the centre calls into question the old professional attitudes and assumptions relating to the sufferers of this disease. Finally a challenge is made for the adoption of a new viewpoint.
CLASS, AGEING & RETIREMENT1
Authors: Douglas‐Smith Lucinda 
Published: December 2008

AbstractMost discussion and research about retirement has centred upon characteristics which map the circumstances of people before and after their retirement. This paper reports the findings of part of a study on ageing and social stratification which examined the retirement experience of a sample of people against the underlying system of social relations. The respondents' perceptions and experiences of the retirement process emerge as being closely related to their position with respect to class, status and power although this relationship was cross cut by sex role differences.
ATTITUDE TO LIVING IN A RETIREMENT VILLAGE
Authors: Legge Varoe 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTProfessional and public opinion about the appropriate housing of the aged varies over time. At the present the emphasis is upon keeping the aged in their own homes. This study examines the experiences of a group of Retirement Village residents and how that experience has affected their well being. The findings suggest that the more options that can be kept open, by the provision of alternate lifestyles, the more likely are the aged to retain the capacity for decision making in their own lives thus facilitating their physical and mental health.
THE CUMULATION OF INEQUALITY: HOUSING COSTS AND INCOME SUPPORT IN OLD AGE
Authors: Kendig Hal. L. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTHousing inequalities accumulate over the life course and take on their greatest force in old age. Among the 95 per cent of older people who continue to live in the community, there is a polarisation between the majority of outright home owners and the minority of permanent private tenants. This article identifies the effect of housing tenure and related public policies on standards of living in retirement. Most importantly, it, concludes that increases of Supplementary Assistance are an immediate priority. A major restructuring of taxation, pension, and housing policy is recommended to resolve the more fundamental problems.
HOW QUEENSLAND PUBLIC SERVANTS SPEND THEIR LUMP SUMS
Authors: McCallum Dr John 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTCurrent debates about income security in later years have questioned the legitimacy of lump sum retirement benefits. The debates have been conducted with a paucity of information about these benefits and the uses to which they are put. A 68 percent response to a mail questionnaire sent to en‐contributors to the Queensland State Service Superannuation Fund who retired between 1/1/78 and 30/6/80 is used here to provide evidence for the debate. Attitudinal responses, along with self reported evidence on the allocation of lump sums to some twenty‐two investment and consumption items, yield a consistent picture about the financial behaviour of retirees. As we would expect from psychological studies of retirees, they are typically cautious and anxious and seek to shelter from any added stress arising from managing personal finances. Their orientation is revealed as risk avoiding rather than risk aversive. Four patterns, namely an effect of the amount, of membership of occupation, of interest rate (at the time of retirement) and marital breakdown, were found in this investment behaviour. Finally whilst recipients of large lump sums report higher levels of life satisfaction now than recipients of lower amounts, this difference disappears when they are asked about the expectations of life satisfaction into the future. The uncertainties of older age seem to outweigh the securities provided by a large lump sum.
HOUSING TENURE AND COSTS OF OLDER AUSTRALIANS: GENDER ISSUES
Authors: Rossiter Chris 
Published: December 2008

AbstractThis paper investigates some aspects of housing amongst people aged 65 and over, using previously unpublished data. It aims to explore further the generally optimistic view of elderly people's housing and to illuminate the variety of circumstances within this population. The analysis concentrates on gender‐based inequalities.Although elderly people generally have adequate and affordable housing compared with the population as a whole, in terms of housing tenure and costs, elderly women lend 10 fare less well than their male counterparts. Gender inequalities in housing circumstances are discussed in relation to differences in marital status and income levels.
POVERTY AND PENSIONS
Authors: Bradbury Bruce , Vipond Joan 
Published: December 2008

AbstractIt has been argued that it is impossible to measure poverty among elderly people because pension levels and poverty lines are so similar. Whether poverty among them appears to be high or low may depend upon an arbitrary decision as to whether the poverty line should be a dollar a week above or below the age pension. This paper analyses poverty among elderly people suggesting that it can be measured by the number who live below an after‐housing cost poverty line. That is, their poverty should be measured after they have paid for their housing. This procedure not only avoids some of the measurement problems, it also provides a more realistic test of the level of poverty in Australia than other techniques. It takes into account not only the incomes of families but also their ownership of the main form of household wealth — the family home.In general when poverty is measured in this way its incidence is much lower among elderly people than others. An important reason is the widespread ownership of homes among the elderly which reduces their housing outlays. Among a minority of the elderly, the private‐sector renters, the incidence of after‐housing poverty is however very high.
AGED WOMEN FROM NON ENGLISH SPEAKING BACKGROUNDS
Authors: Legge Varoe 
Published: December 2008

AbstractAged women from all groups in Australia experience common problems. Financially they are less well off than are men, they are more likely to be widowed and to be living alone. In addition to these experiences aged women from non‐English speaking backgrounds can also experience difficulties through their inability to communicate, especially in formal and semi‐formal situations. Inter‐family value shifts also threaten self image and the quality of life. Ethnically segregated retirement villages can be instrumental in enabling people to retain control of their lives, in enhancing social networks and in preserving family relationships.
PEPPERTREE LODGE SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE FIRST FIFTEEN MONTHS OF THE FIRST C.A.D.E. UNIT
Authors: Fleming R. , Bowles J. , Mellor S. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTThe development, design and programming involved in establishing Peppertree Lodge, a unit specifically designed for the care of the confused and distrubed elderly (C.A.D.E.), have been described earlier (Fleming and Bowles, 1987). This paper outlines the characteristics of the residents admitted in the first 15 months and charts their progress with special reference to a group of ten who have been followed throughout the fifteen month period.The information presented supports the hypothesis that a purpose built unit staffed at the same level as a psychiatric hospital can bring about significant improvements in self‐help skills, behavioural problems and social skills while reducing dependency on staff. While the reduction in the level of confusion in the residents did not reach significance the trend to a lower level is clearly demonstrated.Some observations on the probable causes of the low staff turnover are presented.
FAMILY CAREGIVERS‘: EXPERIENCES AND CONSEQUENCES ASSOCIATED WITH CARING FOR FAMILY MEMBERS WITH DEMENTIA
Authors: Brown P.J. , Holmes A.B. , Mitchell R.A. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTThe aim of this research was to study family cnregiv‐ers' experiences and consequences associated with caring for a family member with dementia with the purpose of identifying major difficulties, service needs and appropriate interventions. A further aim was to assess carers' support group experiences. Caregivers were identified as those attending 16 Sydney metropolitan A.D.A.R.D.S. groups. Fifty‐three carers returned the self‐report quesionnaire.Sufferers were both males and females who were cared for, in the main, by their spouses. A small group of carers had little or no personal physical and emotional support from others. Almost half of the carers are providing care 21 to 24 hours a day. Eighty‐three per cent of carers reported changes in health status related to this role.Clearly, there is a need to provide physical and emotional support for carers generally, and for those with little or no support (for example, those who do not attend a support group) in particular.
‘THERE MUST BE BETTER SONGS TO SING’ INSERVICE TRAINING FOR RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE
Authors: Embelton G. E. , Paul V. E. , Gow K. M. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTAdult learners are frequently anxious when faced with the learning process but are also committed to innovative learning methods. This paper relates to inservice training for nursing and personal care staff in a residential aged care nursing home. Negative attitudes towards the elderly and the ability of training programmes to overcome these are explored. The DO, LOOK, THINK, ACT and GROW model for inservice training is presented Four levels of mastery are described as they relate to various educational levels and abilities of participants. The overall programme of the Training and Resource Centre for Residential Aged Care (TARCRAC) is outlined.
EVALUATING QUALITY OF CARE IN AUSTRALIAN NURSING HOMES
Authors: Gibson D. , Braithwaite J. , Braithwaite V. , Makkai T. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTThis paper reviews some results from a large scale longitudinal and cross national study of nursing home regulation. The Australian system of standards monitoring was designed to be heavily outcome oriented and resident focused. The outcome orientation of the approach is critically appraised, with particular attention to the broadly defined nature of the standards, their subjectivity, and the validity and reliability of the regulation process.
RATING SCALES IN RESIDENTIAL CARE FOR ELDERLY PEOPLE: THE CRICHTON ROYAL BEHAVIOURAL RATING SCALE
Authors: Lefroy R.B. , Hobbs M.S.T. , Hyndman J. 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTThe Purpose of the study was to consider the merits of the Crichton Royal Behavioural Rating Scale (CRBRS) with respect to its use in selection, monitoring progress and predicting the outcome of residents in institutions.Participants were residents in a special dementia unit (SDU) in the form of a hostel, a standard hostel and a nursing home for sufferers with severe dementia.Method: scores were recorded over a period of five years in the SDU and intermittently in the other two institutions.Results demonstrated the range of scores of residents on admission to the SDU and their changes in behavioural function over five years. The probability of retention in the SDU was greater for residents admitted with scores in the lower ranges. Differences in the three institutions were demonstrated in both range and level of behavioural function. Comparison with the Resident Classification Index (RCI) suggested that the CRBRS has superior discrimination concerning behavioural function.Conclusions: the regular use of rating scales in institutions for elderly people should be mandatory. The CRBRS is useful in the selection of residents and in monitoring outcome but it cannot substitute for conventional methods of diagnosis and assessment.