DOPS (Direct Observation of Procedural Skills) in undergraduate skills-lab: Does it work? Analysis of skills-performance and curricular side effects.

PubMed

Profanter, Christoph; Perathoner, Alexander

2015-01-01

Sufficient teaching and assessing clinical skills in the undergraduate setting becomes more and more important. In a surgical skills-lab course at the Medical University of Innsbruck fourth year students were teached with DOPS (direct observation of procedural skills). We analyzed whether DOPS worked or not in this setting, which performance levels could be reached compared to tutor teaching (one tutor, 5 students) and which curricular side effects could be observed. In a prospective randomized trial in summer 2013 (April - June) four competence-level-based skills were teached in small groups during one week: surgical abdominal examination, urethral catheterization (phantom), rectal-digital examination (phantom), handling of central venous catheters. Group A was teached with DOPS, group B with a classical tutor system. Both groups underwent an OSCE (objective structured clinical examination) for assessment. 193 students were included in the study. Altogether 756 OSCE´s were carried out, 209 (27,6%) in the DOPS- and 547 (72,3%) in the tutor-group. Both groups reached high performance levels. In the first month there was a statistically significant difference (p<0,05) in performance of 95% positive OSCE items in the DOPS-group versus 88% in the tutor group. In the following months the performance rates showed no difference anymore and came to 90% in both groups. In practical skills the analysis revealed a high correspondence between positive DOPS (92,4%) and OSCE (90,8%) results. As shown by our data DOPS furnish high performance of clinical skills and work well in the undergraduate setting. Due to the high correspondence of DOPS and OSCE results DOPS should be considered as preferred assessment tool in a students skills-lab. The approximation of performance-rates within the months after initial superiority of DOPS could be explained by an interaction between DOPS and tutor system: DOPS elements seem to have improved tutoring and performance rates as well. DOPS in

L-DOPS corrects neurochemical abnormalities in a Menkes disease mouse model

PubMed Central

Donsante, Anthony; Sullivan, Patricia; Goldstein, David S.; Brinster, Lauren R.; Kaler, Stephen G.

2012-01-01

Objective Menkes disease is a lethal neurodegenerative disorder of infancy caused by mutations in a copper-transporting ATPase gene, ATP7A. Among its multiple cellular tasks, ATP7A transfers copper to dopamine-beta-hydroxylase (DBH) within the lumen of the Golgi network or secretory granules, catalyzing the conversion of dopamine to norepinephrine. In a well-established mouse model of Menkes disease, mottled-brindled, we tested whether systemic administration of L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS), a drug used successfully to treat autosomal recessive norepinephrine deficiency, would improve brain neurochemical abnormalities and neuropathology. Methods At 8, 10, and 12 days of age, wild type and mo-br mice received intraperi-toneal injections of 200μg/g body weight of L-DOPS, or mock solution. Five hours after the final injection, the mice were euthanized and brains removed. We measured catecholamine metabolites affected by DBH via high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, and assessed brain histopathology. Results Compared to mock-treated controls, mo-br mice that received intraperitoneal L-DOPS showed significant increases in brain norepinephrine (P<0.001) and its deaminated metabolite, dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG, P<0.05). The ratio of a non-beta-hydroxylated metabolite in the catecholamine biosynthetic pathway, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, to the beta-hydroxylated metabolite, dihydroxyphenylglycol, improved equivalently to results obtained previously with brain-directed ATP7A gene therapy (P<0.01). However, L-DOPS treatment did not arrest global brain pathology or improve somatic growth, as gene therapy had. Interpretation We conclude that 1) L-DOPS crosses the blood-brain barrier in mo-br mice and corrects brain neurochemical abnormalities, 2) norepinephrine deficiency is not the cause of neurodegeneration in mo-br mice, and 3) L-DOPS treatment may ameliorate noradrenergic hypofunction in Menkes disease. PMID:23224983

The discovery of the pressor effect of DOPS and its blunting by decarboxylase inhibitors.

PubMed

Kaufmann, H

2006-01-01

In the 1950s it was found that an artificial aminoacid, 3,4-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (DOPS), was converted to norepinephrine (NE) in a single step by the enzyme L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), bypassing the need for the rate limiting enzyme dopamine beta hydroxylase. Trying to replicate the success of dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in the treatment of Parkinson disease, treatment with DOPS was attempted in patients with autonomic failure who have impaired NE release. DOPS improved orthostatic hypotension in patients with familial amyloid polyneuropathy, congenital deficiency of dopamine beta hydroxylase, pure autonomic failure and multiple system atrophy. DOPS pressor effect is due to its conversion to NE outside the central nervous system because concomitant administration of carbidopa, an inhibitor of AADC that does not cross the blood-brain barrier, blunted both the increase in plasma NE and the pressor response. DOPS pressor response is not dependent on intact sympathetic terminals because its conversion to NE also occurs in non-neuronal tissues.

Increasing CNS norepinephrine levels by the precursor L-DOPS facilitates beam-walking recovery after sensorimotor cortex ablation in rats.

PubMed

Kikuchi, K; Nishino, K; Ohyu, H

2000-03-31

The present investigation was conducted to document a role of L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS), precursor of L-norepinephrine (NE), in the functional recovery from beam-walking performance deficits in rats after unilateral sensorimotor cortex ablation. L-DOPS was administered simultaneously with benserazide (BSZ; a peripheral aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor), and the regional contents of NE in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum were assayed. Behavioral recovery was demonstrated by the rats treated with L-DOPS and BSZ, and the rate of recovery was significantly different from that of either BSZ-treated or vehicle-treated control rats. The NE tissue levels in the three discrete regions of the rat brain were significantly elevated in the experimental rats receiving both L-DOPS and BSZ. The present studies indicate that increasing NE levels by the precursor L-DOPS may be responsible for facilitating behavioral recovery from beam-walking performance deficits in rats, and further suggest that L-DOPS may become one of the candidate compounds for further clinical human trials promoting functional recovery after injuries to the cerebral cortex.

The educational impact of assessment: A comparison of DOPS and MCQs

PubMed Central

Cobb, Kate A.; Brown, George; Jaarsma, Debbie A. D. C.; Hammond, Richard A.

2013-01-01

Aim To evaluate the impact of two different assessment formats on the approaches to learning of final year veterinary students. The relationship between approach to learning and examination performance was also investigated. Method An 18-item version of the Study Process Questionnaire (SPQ) was sent to 87 final year students. Each student responded to the questionnaire with regards to DOPS (Direct Observation of Procedural Skills) and a Multiple Choice Examination (MCQ). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 of the respondents to gain a deeper insight into the students’ perception of assessment. Results Students’ adopted a deeper approach to learning for DOPS and a more surface approach with MCQs. There was a positive correlation between an achieving approach to learning and examination performance. Analysis of the qualitative data revealed that deep, surface and achieving approaches were reported by the students and seven major influences on their approaches to learning were identified: motivation, purpose, consequence, acceptability, feedback, time pressure and the individual difference of the students. Conclusions The format of DOPS has a positive influence on approaches to learning. There is a conflict for students between preparing for final examinations and preparing for clinical practice. PMID:23808609

L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS; droxidopa) in the management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: a multi-national, multi-center, dose-ranging study in multiple system atrophy and pure autonomic failure.

PubMed

Mathias, C J; Senard, J M; Braune, S; Watson, L; Aragishi, A; Keeling, J E; Taylor, M D

2001-08-01

This study was designed to determine the efficacy and tolerability of increasing doses of L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS) in treating symptomatic orthostatic hypotension associated with multiple system atrophy (MSA) and pure autonomic failure (PAF). Following a one-week run-in, patients (26 MSA; 6 PAF) with symptomatic orthostatic hypotension received increasing doses of L-threo-DOPS (100, 200 and 300 mg, twice daily) in an open, dose-ranging study. Incremental dose adjustment (after weeks two and four of outpatient treatment) was based on clinical need until blood pressure (BP), and symptoms improved. Final dosage was maintained for six weeks. With L-threo-DOPS, systolic BP decrease was reduced during orthostatic challenge (-22+/-28 mm Hg reduction from a baseline decrease of 54.3+/-27.7 mm Hg, p = 0.0001, n = 32; supine systolic BP at final visit was 118.9+/-28.2 mm Hg). By the end of the study, 25 patients (78%) improved, and in 14 patients (44%) orthostatic hypotension was no longer observed. Decreased orthostatic systolic BP decrease occurred in 22% (7/32), 24% (6/25) and 61% (11/18) of patients treated with 100, 200, and 300 mg L-threo-DOPS twice daily, respectively. An improvement occurred in symptoms associated with orthostatic hypotension, such as light-headedness, dizziness (p = 0.0125), and blurred vision (p = 0.0290). L-threo-DOPS was well tolerated, with the 2 serious adverse events reported being a possible complication of the disease under study, and with no reports of supine hypertension. In conclusion, L-threo-DOPS (100, 200, and 300 mg, twice daily) was well tolerated. The dosage of 300 mg twice daily L-threo-DOPS seemed to offer the most effective control of symptomatic orthostatic hypotension in MSA and PAF.

The D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR, potentiates hind leg grooming behavior in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Pitmon, E.; Stephens, G.; Parkhurst, S. J.; Wolf, F. W.; Kehne, G.; Taylor, M.

2016-01-01

Drosophila groom away debris and pathogens from the body using their legs in a stereotyped sequence of innate motor behaviors. Here, we investigated one aspect of the grooming repertoire by characterizing the D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR. Removal of DopR results in decreased hind leg grooming, as substantiated by quantitation of dye remaining on mutant and RNAi animals vs. controls and direct scoring of behavioral events. These data are also supported by pharmacological results that D1 receptor agonists fail to potentiate grooming behaviors in headless DopR flies. DopR protein is broadly expressed in the neuropil of the thoracic ganglion and overlaps with TH‐positive dopaminergic neurons. Broad neuronal expression of dopamine receptor in mutant animals restored normal grooming behaviors. These data provide evidence for the role of DopR in potentiating hind leg grooming behaviors in the thoracic ganglion of adult Drosophila. This is a remarkable juxtaposition to the considerable role of D1 family dopamine receptors in rodent grooming, and future investigations of evolutionary relationships of circuitry may be warranted. PMID:26749475

L-DOPS therapy for refractory orthostatic hypotension in autoimmune autonomic neuropathy.

PubMed

Gibbons, Christopher H; Vernino, Steven A; Kaufmann, Horacio; Freeman, Roy

2005-10-11

The authors report a 46-year-old woman with antibodies to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (NiAchR) of the autonomic ganglia. She presented with severe orthostatic intolerance refractory to treatment with midodrine, fludrocortisone, erythropoietin, vasopressin, salt, and fluid loading. Addition of L-threo-3,4-dihidroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS) substantially improved blood pressure and orthostatic tolerance. L-DOPS may benefit patients with severe orthostatic intolerance and be particularly effective in patients with ganglionic NiAchR antibodies.

The D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR, potentiates hind leg grooming behavior in Drosophila.

PubMed

Pitmon, E; Stephens, G; Parkhurst, S J; Wolf, F W; Kehne, G; Taylor, M; Lebestky, T

2016-03-01

Drosophila groom away debris and pathogens from the body using their legs in a stereotyped sequence of innate motor behaviors. Here, we investigated one aspect of the grooming repertoire by characterizing the D1 family dopamine receptor, DopR. Removal of DopR results in decreased hind leg grooming, as substantiated by quantitation of dye remaining on mutant and RNAi animals vs. controls and direct scoring of behavioral events. These data are also supported by pharmacological results that D1 receptor agonists fail to potentiate grooming behaviors in headless DopR flies. DopR protein is broadly expressed in the neuropil of the thoracic ganglion and overlaps with TH-positive dopaminergic neurons. Broad neuronal expression of dopamine receptor in mutant animals restored normal grooming behaviors. These data provide evidence for the role of DopR in potentiating hind leg grooming behaviors in the thoracic ganglion of adult Drosophila. This is a remarkable juxtaposition to the considerable role of D1 family dopamine receptors in rodent grooming, and future investigations of evolutionary relationships of circuitry may be warranted. © 2016 The Authors. Genes, Brain and Behavior published by International Behavioural and Neural Genetics Society and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The noradrenaline precursor L-DOPS reduces pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Kalinin, Sergey; Polak, Paul E; Lin, Shao Xia; Sakharkar, Amul J; Pandey, Subhash C; Feinstein, Douglas L

2012-08-01

Damage to noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and may contribute to disease progression. In 5xFAD transgenic mice, which accumulate amyloid burden at early ages, the LC undergoes stress as evidenced by increased astrocyte activation, neuronal hypertrophy, reduced levels of LC-enriched messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and increased inflammatory gene expression. Central nervous system (CNS) noradrenaline (NA) levels in 5-month-old male 5xFAD mice were increased using the NA precursor L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS). After 1 month, L-DOPS treatment improved learning in the Morris water maze test compared with vehicle-treated mice. L-DOPS increased CNS NA levels, and average latency times in the water maze test were inversely correlated to NA levels. L-DOPS reduced astrocyte activation and Thioflavin-S staining; increased mRNA levels of neprilysin and insulin degrading enzyme, and of several neurotrophins; and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein levels. These data demonstrate the presence of LC stress in a robust mouse model of AD, and suggest that raising CNS NA levels could provide benefit in AD. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Analysis of Abrasive Blasting of DOP-26 Iridium Alloy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ohriner, Evan Keith; Zhang, Wei; Ulrich, George B

2012-01-01

The effects of abrasive blasting on the surface geometry and microstructure of DOP-26 iridium alloy (Ir-0.3% W-0.006% Th 0.005% Al) have been investigated. Abrasive blasting has been used to control emissivity of components operating at elevated temperature. The effects of abrasive blasting conditions on surface morphology were investigated both experimentally and by numerical modeling. The simplified model, based on finite element analysis of a single angular particle impacting on Ir alloy disk, calculates the surface deformation and residual strain distribution. The experimental results and modeling results both indicate that the surface geometry is not sensitive to the abrasive blast processmore » conditions of nozzle pressure and standoff distance considered in this study. On the other hand, the modeling results suggest that the angularity of the abrasive particle has an important role in determining surface geometry, which in turn, affects the emissivity. Abrasive blasting causes localized surface strains and localized recrystallization, but it does not affect grain size following extended exposure at elevated temperature. The dependence of emissivity of the DOP-26 alloy on mean surface slope follows a similar trend to that reported for pure iridium.« less

Mutation of Drosophila dopamine receptor DopR leads to male-male courtship behavior.

PubMed

Chen, Bin; Liu, He; Ren, Jing; Guo, Aike

2012-07-06

In Drosophila, dopamine plays important roles in many biological processes as a neuromodulator. Previous studies showed that dopamine level could affect fly courtship behaviors. Disturbed dopamine level leads to abnormal courtship behavior in two different ways. Dopamine up-regulation induces male-male courtship behavior, while down-regulation of dopamine level results in increased sexual attractiveness of males towards other male flies. Until now, the identity of the dopamine receptor involved in this abnormal male-male courtship behavior remains unknown. Here we used genetic approaches to investigate the role of dopamine receptors in fly courtship behavior. We found that a dopamine D1-like receptor, DopR, was involved in fly courtship behavior. DopR mutant male flies display male-male courtship behavior. This behavior is mainly due to the male's increased propensity to court other males. Expression of functional DopR successfully rescued this mutant phenotype. Knock-down of D2-like receptor D2R and another D1-like receptor, DAMB, did not induce male-male courtship behavior, indicating the receptor-type specificity of this phenomenon. Our findings provide insight into a possible link between dopamine level disturbance and the induced male-male courtship behavior. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Biochemical pathways and enhanced degradation of di-n-octyl phthalate (DOP) in sequencing batch reactor (SBR) by Arthrobacter sp. SLG-4 and Rhodococcus sp. SLG-6 isolated from activated sludge.

PubMed

Zhang, Ke; Liu, Yihao; Chen, Qiang; Luo, Hongbing; Zhu, Zhanyuan; Chen, Wei; Chen, Jia; Mo, You

2018-04-01

Two bacterial strains designated as Arthrobacter sp. SLG-4 and Rhodococcus sp. SLG-6, capable of utilizing di-n-octyl phthalate (DOP) as sole source of carbon and energy, were isolated from activated sludge. The analysis of DOP degradation intermediates indicated Arthrobacter sp. SLG-4 could completely degrade DOP. Whereas DOP could not be mineralized by Rhodococcus sp. SLG-6 and the final metabolic product was phthalic acid (PA). The proposed DOP degradation pathway by Arthrobacter sp. SLG-4 was that strain SLG-4 initially transformed DOP to PA via de-esterification pathway, and then PA was metabolized to protocatechuate acid and eventually converted to tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle through meta-cleavage pathway. Accordingly, Phthalate 3,4-dioxygenase genes (phtA) responsible for PA degradation were successfully detected in Arthrobacter sp. SLG-4 by real-time quantitative PCR (q-PCR). q-PCR analysis demonstrated that the quantity of phthalate 3,4-dioxygenase was positively correlated to DOP degradation in SBRs. Bioaugmentation by inoculating DOP-degrading bacteria effectively shortened the start-up of SBRs and significantly enhanced DOP degradation in bioreactors. More than 91% of DOP (500 mg L -1 ) was removed in SBR bioaugmented with bacterial consortium, which was double of the control SBR. This study suggests bioaugmentation is an effective and feasible technique for DOP bioremediation in practical engineering.

Grain Growth and Precipitation Behavior of Iridium Alloy DOP-26 During Long Term Aging

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pierce, Dean T.; Muralidharan, Govindarajan; Fox, Ethan E.

The influence of long term aging on grain growth and precipitate sizes and spatial distribution in iridium alloy DOP-26 was studied. Samples of DOP-26 were fabricated using the new process, recrystallized for 1 hour (h) at 1375 C, then aged at either 1300, 1400, or 1500 C for times ranging from 50 to 10,000 h. Grain size measurements (vertical and horizontal mean linear intercept and horizontal and vertical projection) and analyses of iridium-thorium precipitates (size and spacing) were made on the longitudinal, transverse, and rolling surfaces of the as-recrystallized and aged specimens from which the two-dimensional spatial distribution and meanmore » sizes of the precipitates were obtained. The results obtained from this study are intended to provide input to grain growth models.« less

Descriptive sensory analysis of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP.

PubMed

Zeppa, Giuseppe; Gambigliani Zoccoli, Mario; Nasi, Enrico; Masini, Giovanni; Meglioli, Giuseppe; Zappino, Matteo

2013-12-01

Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale (ABT) is a typical Italian vinegar available in two different forms: Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP (ABTM) and Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia DOP (ABTRE). ABT is obtained by alcoholic fermentation and acetic bio-oxidation of cooked grape must and aged at least 12 years in wooden casks and is known and sold around the world. Despite this widespread recognition, data on sensory characteristics of these products are very scarce. Therefore a descriptive analysis was conducted to define a lexicon for the ABT sensory profile and to create a simple, stable and reproducible synthetic ABT for training panellists. A lexicon of 20 sensory parameters was defined and validated and a synthetic ABT was prepared as standard reference. Simple standards for panellist training were also defined and the sensory profiles of ABTM and ABTRE were obtained. The obtained results confirm that descriptive analysis can be used for the sensory characterisation of ABT and that the sensory profiles of ABTM and ABTRE are very different. Furthermore, the results demonstrate that a lexicon and proper standard references are essential for describing the sensory qualities of ABT both for technical purposes and to protect the product from commercial fraud. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry.

Protocol for chromosome-specific probe construction using PRINS, micromanipulation and DOP-PCR techniques.

PubMed

Passamani, Paulo Z; Carvalho, Carlos R; Soares, Fernanda A F

2018-01-01

Chromosome-specific probes have been widely used in molecular cytogenetics, being obtained with different methods. In this study, a reproducible protocol for construction of chromosome-specific probes is proposed which associates in situ amplification (PRINS), micromanipulation and degenerate oligonucleotide-primed PCR (DOP-PCR). Human lymphocyte cultures were used to obtain metaphases from male and female individuals. The chromosomes were amplified via PRINS, and subcentromeric fragments of the X chromosome were microdissected using microneedles coupled to a phase contrast microscope. The fragments were amplified by DOP-PCR and labeled with tetramethyl-rhodamine-5-dUTP. The probes were used in fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) procedure to highlight these specific regions in the metaphases. The results show one fluorescent red spot in male and two in female X chromosomes and interphase nuclei.

Knockout crickets for the study of learning and memory: Dopamine receptor Dop1 mediates aversive but not appetitive reinforcement in crickets.

PubMed

Awata, Hiroko; Watanabe, Takahito; Hamanaka, Yoshitaka; Mito, Taro; Noji, Sumihare; Mizunami, Makoto

2015-11-02

Elucidation of reinforcement mechanisms in associative learning is an important subject in neuroscience. In mammals, dopamine neurons are thought to play critical roles in mediating both appetitive and aversive reinforcement. Our pharmacological studies suggested that octopamine and dopamine neurons mediate reward and punishment, respectively, in crickets, but recent studies in fruit-flies concluded that dopamine neurons mediates both reward and punishment, via the type 1 dopamine receptor Dop1. To resolve the discrepancy between studies in different insect species, we produced Dop1 knockout crickets using the CRISPR/Cas9 system and found that they are defective in aversive learning with sodium chloride punishment but not appetitive learning with water or sucrose reward. The results suggest that dopamine and octopamine neurons mediate aversive and appetitive reinforcement, respectively, in crickets. We suggest unexpected diversity in neurotransmitters mediating appetitive reinforcement between crickets and fruit-flies, although the neurotransmitter mediating aversive reinforcement is conserved. This study demonstrates usefulness of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for producing knockout animals for the study of learning and memory.

Influence of dioctyl phthalate (DOP) on the mechanical, optical and thermal properties of formulations for the industrial manufacture of radiation sterilizable medical disposables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Shamshad; Mehmood, Mazhar; Iqbal, Rashid

2010-03-01

Shelf life of the formulations designed for the industrial manufacture of radiation sterilizable syringes and other medical disposables is a very important issue world over. Radiation compatible formulations were developed earlier in the laboratory by the incorporation of primary and secondary antioxidants along with processing stabilizers in a random polypropylene copolymer. It has been reported in literature that the mobilizing agents namely hydrocarbons, greases, wax and the plasticizer, dioctyl phthalate (DOP) impart radiation resistance to the polypropylene by providing free volume. It was envisaged that the addition of DOP to the afore-mentioned formulation might favorably influence the mechanical, optical and thermal properties of our formulation. To study the influence of addition of DOP on the afore-mentioned properties, the addition of 1%, 2% and 3% of the mobilizer was made, followed by the irradiation of resulting heat pressed sheets to the industrial standard dose of 25 kGy. Two important characteristic mechanical properties to determine the suitability of the radiation sterilized materials comprise angle of breakage and the haze percent. After irradiation and even on accelerated ageing of the irradiated material, the angle of breakage of heat press sheets of formulations containing 1%, 2% and 3% of DOP was found to be 180°, demonstrating the role of DOP, in imparting additional radiation stability. In case of the irradiated control sample, the angle of breakage was much lower. In the heat pressed sheets containing the DOP, a remarkable retention in the tensile strength, percentage elongation at break, along with improved thermal stability was observed. The formulation devoid of DOP demonstrated poor retention of the afore-mentioned characteristic properties .The observed improvement in thermal stability of the formulations containing DOP hints at the likely possibility of reuse of these materials by autoclaving which is considered an additional

Effect of Trace Levels of Si on Microstructure and Grain Boundary Segregation in DOP-26 Iridium Alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierce, Dean; Muralidharan, Govindarajan; Heatherly, Lee; Fox, Ethan

2018-03-01

The thermodynamics and kinetics of Silicon (Si) segregation to grain boundaries in Iridium alloy DOP-26 with added trace levels of Si of 6, 11, 29, and 36 wppm was studied by Auger Electron Spectroscopy. The four alloys were annealed at 1500 or 1535 °C for 19 or 76 hours followed by cooling at three different rates. Si enrichment at the grain boundaries (GB) increased with increasing bulk Si content, with the grain boundary Si enrichment factors ranging from 62 to 344, depending on the bulk Si content and the cooling rate. Grain boundary Si contents increased with decreasing cooling rate in all alloys, indicating that Si GB segregation is influenced by both thermodynamic and kinetic factors in the alloys and temperature ranges of the study. A Langmuir-McLean isotherm-based model was successfully used to predict the temperature dependence of GB Si segregation in DOP-26 alloys with Si additions and estimate the temperature independent free energy of Si segregation to grain boundaries in DOP-26.

The noradrenaline precursor L-DOPS reduces pathology in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease

PubMed Central

Kalinin, Sergey; Polak, Paul E.; Lin, Shao Xia; Sakharkar, Amul J.; Pandey, Subhash C.; Feinstein, Douglas L.

2013-01-01

Damage to noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus (LC) is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and may contribute to disease progression. In 5xFAD transgenic mice, which accumulate amyloid burden at early ages, the LC undergoes stress as evidenced by increased astrocyte activation, neuronal hypertrophy, reduced levels of LC-enriched messenger RNAs (mRNAs), and increased inflammatory gene expression. Central nervous system (CNS) noradrenaline (NA) levels in 5-month-old male 5xFAD mice were increased using the NA precursor L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS). After 1 month, L-DOPS treatment improved learning in the Morris water maze test compared with vehicle-treated mice. L-DOPS increased CNS NA levels, and average latency times in the water maze test were inversely correlated to NA levels. L-DOPS reduced astrocyte activation and Thioflavin-S staining; increased mRNA levels of neprilysin and insulin degrading enzyme, and of several neurotrophins; and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor protein levels. These data demonstrate the presence of LC stress in a robust mouse model of AD, and suggest that raising CNS NA levels could provide benefit in AD. PMID:21705113

Trajectories of Dop Points on a Machining Wheel During Grinding of High Quality Plane Surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrikova, I.; Vrzala, R.; Kafka, J.

The basic requirement for plane grinding synthetic monocrystals is uniform wear of the grinding tool. This article deals with the case where the grinding process is carried out by relative motion between the front faces of rotating wheels with parallel axes. The dop is attached by the end of the pendulous arm, which movement is controlled by a cam. Kinematic relations have been drawn for the relative motion of the dop points in the reference to the abrasive wheel. The aim of the work is set the methodology for finding out of uniformity respectively nonuniformity of the motion of dop points on the abrasive wheel. The computational program was compiled in MATLAB. The sums of the number of passes were performed in the transmission range of 0.4-1. The number of passes of selected points on the dop passed over areas of the square mash was computed. The density of trajectory passes depends on four factors: the speed of both wheels, the number of arm operating cycles, the angle of the arm swings and the cam shape. All these dependencies were investigated. The uniformity the density of passes is one of the criteria for setting the grinding machine.

Optimal production of L-threo-2,3-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS) on a large scale by diastereoselectivity-enhanced variant of L-threonine aldolase expressed in Escherichia coli.

PubMed

Gwon, Hui-Jeong; Yoshioka, Hideki; Song, Nho-Eul; Kim, Jong-Hui; Song, Young-Ran; Jeong, Do-Youn; Baik, Sang-Ho

2012-01-01

This study examined the efficient production and optimal separation procedures for pure L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS) from a mixture of diastereomers synthesized by whole-cell aldol condensation reaction, harboring diastereoselectivity-enhanced L-threonine aldolase in Escherichia coli JM109. The addition of the reducing agent sodium sulfite was found to stimulate the production of L-threo-DOPS without affecting the diastereoselectivity ratio, especially at the 50 mM concentration. The optimal pH for diastereoselective synthesis was 6.5. The addition of Triton X-100 also strongly affected the synthesis yield, showing the highest conversion yield at a 0.75% concentration; however, the diastereoselectivity of the L-threonine aldolase was not affected. Lowering the temperature to 10°C did not significantly affect the diastereoselectiviy without affecting the synthesis rate. At the optimized conditions, a mixture of L-threo-DOPS and L-erythro-DOPS was synthesized by diastereoselectivity-enhanced L-threonine aldolase from E. coli in a continuous process for 100 hr, yielding an average of 4.0 mg/mL of L-threo-DOPS and 60% diastereoselectivity (de), and was subjected to two steps of ion exchange chromatography. The optimum separation conditions for the resin and solvent were evaluated in which it was found that a two-step process with the ion-exchange resin Dowex 50 W × 8 and activated carbon by washing with 0.5 N acetic acid was sufficient to separate the L-threo-DOPS. By using two-step ion-exchange chromatography, synthesized high-purity L-threo-DOPS of up to 100% was purified with a yield of 71%. The remaining substrates, glycine and 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, were recovered successfully with a yield of 71.2%. Our results indicate this potential procedure as an economical purification process for the synthesis and purification of important L-threo-DOPS at the pharmaceutical level.

A pair of dopamine neurons target the D1-like dopamine receptor DopR in the central complex to promote ethanol-stimulated locomotion in Drosophila.

PubMed

Kong, Eric C; Woo, Katherine; Li, Haiyan; Lebestky, Tim; Mayer, Nasima; Sniffen, Melissa R; Heberlein, Ulrike; Bainton, Roland J; Hirsh, Jay; Wolf, Fred W

2010-04-01

Dopamine is a mediator of the stimulant properties of drugs of abuse, including ethanol, in mammals and in the fruit fly Drosophila. The neural substrates for the stimulant actions of ethanol in flies are not known. We show that a subset of dopamine neurons and their targets, through the action of the D1-like dopamine receptor DopR, promote locomotor activation in response to acute ethanol exposure. A bilateral pair of dopaminergic neurons in the fly brain mediates the enhanced locomotor activity induced by ethanol exposure, and promotes locomotion when directly activated. These neurons project to the central complex ellipsoid body, a structure implicated in regulating motor behaviors. Ellipsoid body neurons are required for ethanol-induced locomotor activity and they express DopR. Elimination of DopR blunts the locomotor activating effects of ethanol, and this behavior can be restored by selective expression of DopR in the ellipsoid body. These data tie the activity of defined dopamine neurons to D1-like DopR-expressing neurons to form a neural circuit that governs acute responding to ethanol.

Evaluating the use of PAO (4 cSt polyalphaoelfin) oil instead of DOP (di-octyl phthalate) oil for measuring the aerosol capture of nuclear canister filters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Moore, Murray E.

This document details the distinction between using PAO (4 cSt polyalphaoelfin) oil instead of DOP (di-octyl phthalate) oil for measuring the aerosol capture of filters. This document is developed to justify the use of PAO rather than DOP for evaluating the performance of filters in the SAVY 4000 and Hagan containers. The design criteria (Anderson et al, 2012) for purchasing SAVY 4000 containers and the Safety Analysis Report for the SAVY 4000 Container Series specified that the filter must “capture greater than 99.97% of 0.45 μm mean diameter dioctyl phthalate (DOP) aerosol at the rated flow with a DOP concentrationmore » of 65±15 micrograms per liter.”This corresponds to a leakage percent of 0.03% (3.0x10 -2). The density of DOP oil is 985 kg/m 3 and the density of PAO oil is 819 kg/m 3. ATI Test Inc measured the mass mean diameter of aerosol distributions produced by a single Laskin type III-A nozzle operating at a 20 psig air pressure as 0.563 μm for DOP oil and 0.549 μm for PAO oil. (See Appendix A.) For both types of oil in this document, the single fiber method calculated the leakage percent to be 4.4x10 -5 for DOP oil and 4.7x10 -5 for PAO oil. Although the percent error between these two quantities is 7.7%, these calculated leakage percent values are more than two orders of magnitude less than the criterion specified in the SAVY canister SAR. As a point of reference, the photometer used to measure the SAVY canister filter performance cannot resolve values for the leakage percent below 1.0x10 -5. Additionally, over a range of particle sizes from 0.01 μm to 3.0 μm, there was less than 4.0x10 -5 error between the calculated filter efficiency for the two types of oil at any particular particle size diameter. In conclusion, the difference between using DOP and PAO for testing SAVY canister filters is of inconsequential concern.« less

Determination of the forces imposed by micro and nanopipettes during DOPC: DOPS liposome manipulation.

PubMed

Allen, Kathleen B; Layton, Bradley E

2009-11-01

Using micropipette-based probing methods and an image processing algorithm for measuring deformation, the bending energies of aspirated DOPC:DOPS liposomes were estimated both before and during manipulation with an injection pipette. We found that unlike cells, which are penetrable with pipettes as large as 2mum in diameter and at speeds as slow as 4mum/s, liposomes, without a cytoskeleton to resist deformation, are impenetrable with pipettes as small as 25nm in diameter and at speeds as great as 4000mum/s. Using energy calculations and the previously published mechanical properties of DOPC:DOPS liposomes, the forces that injection pipettes of various sizes can exert onto liposomes during probing were estimated. Forces ranged from approximately 1pN to 6pN, and the forces exerted onto these liposomes increased as pipette size diminished. The quantification of the amount of force exerted on liposomes or cells during manipulation can assist in minimizing the damage during single-liposome, single-cell, or single-organelle injections and surgeries.

Synthesis of L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS) with thermostabilized low-specific L-threonine aldolase from Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2).

PubMed

Balk, Sang-Ho; Yoshioka, Hideki; Yukawa, Hideaki; Harayama, Shigeaki

2007-05-01

Stability-enhanced mutants, H44, 11-94, 5A2-84, and F8, of L-threonine aldolase (L-TA) from Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) (SCO1085) were isolated by an error-prone PCR followed by a high-throughput screening. Each of these mutant, had a single amino acid substitution: H177Y in the H44 mutant, A169T in the 11-94 mutant, D104N in the 5A2-84 mutant and Fl81 in the F8 mutant. The residual L-TA activity of the wild-type L-TA after a heat treatment for 20 min at 60 degrees C was only 10.6%. However, those in the stability-enhanced mutants were 85.7% for the H44 mutant, 58.6% for the F8 mutant, 62.1% for the 5A2-84 mutant, and 67.6% for the 11-94 mutant. Although the half-life of the wild-type L-TA at 63 degrees C was 1.3 min, those of the mutant L-TAs were longer: 14.6 min for the H44 mutant, 3.7 min for the 11-94 mutant, 5.8 min for the 5A2-84 mutant, and 5.0 min for the F8 mutant. The specific activity did not change in most of the mutants, but it was decreased by 45% in the case of mutant F8. When the aldol condensation of glycine and 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde was studied by using whole cells of Escherichia coli containing the wild-type L-TA gene, L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L.-threo-DOPS) was successfully synthesized with a yield of 2.0 mg/ml after 20 repeated batch reactions for 100 h. However, the L-threo-DOPS synthesizing activity of the enzyme decreased with increased cycles of the batch reactions. Compared with the wild-type L-TA, H44 L-TA kept its L-threo-DOPS synthesizing activity almost constant during the 20 repeated batch reactions for 100 h, yielding 4.0 mg/ml of L-threo-DOPS. This result showed that H44 L-TA is more effective than the wild-type L-TA for the mass production of L-threo-DOPS.

42 CFR 84.1151 - DOP filter test; respirators designed as respiratory protection against dusts, fumes, and mists...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Dust, Fume, and Mist; Pesticide... 42 Public Health 1 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false DOP filter test; respirators designed as...

42 CFR 84.1151 - DOP filter test; respirators designed as respiratory protection against dusts, fumes, and mists...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Dust, Fume, and Mist; Pesticide... 42 Public Health 1 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false DOP filter test; respirators designed as...

42 CFR 84.1151 - DOP filter test; respirators designed as respiratory protection against dusts, fumes, and mists...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Dust, Fume, and Mist; Pesticide... 42 Public Health 1 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false DOP filter test; respirators designed as...

42 CFR 84.1151 - DOP filter test; respirators designed as respiratory protection against dusts, fumes, and mists...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Dust, Fume, and Mist; Pesticide... 42 Public Health 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false DOP filter test; respirators designed as...

42 CFR 84.1151 - DOP filter test; respirators designed as respiratory protection against dusts, fumes, and mists...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Dust, Fume, and Mist; Pesticide... 42 Public Health 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false DOP filter test; respirators designed as...

A Fiber Optic PD Sensor Using a Balanced Sagnac Interferometer and an EDFA-Based DOP Tunable Fiber Ring Laser

PubMed Central

Wang, Lutang; Fang, Nian; Wu, Chunxu; Qin, Haijuan; Huang, Zhaoming

2014-01-01

A novel fiber-optic acoustic sensor using an erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA)-based fiber ring laser and a balanced Sagnac interferometer for acoustic sensing of the partial discharge (PD) in power transformers is proposed and demonstrated. As a technical background, an experimental investigation on how the variations of the fiber birefringence affect the sensor performances was carried out, and the results are discussed. The operation principles are described, and the relevant formulas are derived. The analytical results show that an EDFA-based fiber ring laser operating in chaotic mode can provide a degree of polarization (DOP) tunable light beam for effectively suppressing polarization fading noises. The balanced Sagnac interferometer can eliminate command intensity noises and enhance the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Furthermore, it inherently operates at the quadrature point of the response curve without any active stabilizations. Several experiments are conducted for evaluating the performances of the sensor system, as well as for investigating the ability of the detection of high-frequency acoustic emission signals. The experimental results demonstrate that the DOP of the laser beam can be continuously tuned from 0.2% to 100%, and the power fluctuation in the whole DOP tuning range is less than 0.05 dBm. A high-frequency response up to 300 kHz is reached, and the high sensing sensitivity for detections of weak corona discharges, as well as partial discharges also is verified. PMID:24824371

Considerations on Dop (Depth Of Penetration) Test for Evaluation of Ceramics Materials Used in Ballistic Protection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popa, Ioan-Dan; Dobriţa, Florin

2017-12-01

Tremendous amount of funds and other resorces were invested in studying the response of ceramic materials under ballistic impact, the main goal being to find a way to increase the protection of soldiers and the vehicles used in the modern battlespace. Using of ceramic materials especially carbon based (carbides), nitrogen based (nitrides) and oxygen based (oxides) ceramics in order to increase the protection level of ballistic equipment could be, sometimes, a big challenge when trying to use the proper test in order to evaluate and compare their performances. The role of the tests is to provide a better understanding of their response in different situations and, as a consequence, to make them more efficient as armour components through future improvements. The paper presents shortly the main tests which are used and eventually standardised for evaluating the ballistic behaviour of the ceramics and other armour components, with a special focus to DOP (Depth of Penetration) Tests.

Effect of formative evaluation using direct observation of procedural skills in assessment of postgraduate students of obstetrics and gynecology: Prospective study.

PubMed

Kumar, Naina; Singh, Namit Kant; Rudra, Samar; Pathak, Swanand

2017-01-01

Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) is a way of evaluating procedural skills through observation in the workplace. The purpose of this study was to assess the role of DOPS in teaching and assessment of postgraduate students and to know the effect of repeated DOPS on improvement of the skills and confidence of the students. In both phases, significant difference was observed between the two groups on first DOPS comparison (1st phase: p=0.000; 2nd phase: p=0.002), with simulation group performing better. Comparison of sixth DOPS in the two groups revealed no difference in both phases, but significant difference on first and sixth DOPS comparison in each group (p=0.000). Repeated DOPS results in improved skills and confidence of students in managing real life obstetric emergencies irrespective of the teaching modality. Repeated DOPS results in improved skills and confidence of students in managing real life obstetric emergencies irrespective of the teaching modality.

Un nouveau cristal laser largement accordable le BOYS dopé à l'ytterbium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chénais, S.; Druon, F.; Balembois, F.; Georges, P.; Gaumé, R.; Aka, G.; Viana, B.; Vivien, D.

2002-06-01

Nous avons étudié les performances laser en pompage par diode de puissance d'un nouveau cristal : le Sr3Y(BO3)3 (acronyme : BOYS), dopé à l'ytterbium. Son spectre d'émission particulièrement large en fait un matériau particulièrement prometteur pour la réalisation de lasers femtosecondes directement pompés par diode. Ses performances ont été comparées à celles d'un verre phosphate ainsi qu'à celles du cristal d' Yb:GdCOB dans les mêmes conditions. Nous démontrons que, tant du point de vue de l'efficacité laser que de la tenue aux fortes puissances, GdCOB et BOYS sont supérieurs au verre ; le BOYS est de surcroît plus accordable (sur 50 nm), mais son comportement thermique limite a priori son usage à des puissances de pompe modérées.

Changing nutrient stoichiometry affects phytoplankton production, DOP accumulation and dinitrogen fixation - a mesocosm experiment in the eastern tropical North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, J.; Löscher, C. R.; Neulinger, S. C.; Reichel, A. F.; Loginova, A.; Borchard, C.; Schmitz, R. A.; Hauss, H.; Kiko, R.; Riebesell, U.

2016-02-01

Ocean deoxygenation due to climate change may alter redox-sensitive nutrient cycles in the marine environment. The productive eastern tropical North Atlantic (ETNA) upwelling region may be particularly affected when the relatively moderate oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) deoxygenates further and microbially driven nitrogen (N) loss processes are promoted. Consequently, water masses with a low nitrogen to phosphorus (N : P) ratio could reach the euphotic layer, possibly influencing primary production in those waters. Previous mesocosm studies in the oligotrophic Atlantic Ocean identified nitrate availability as a control of primary production, while a possible co-limitation of nitrate and phosphate could not be ruled out. To better understand the impact of changing N : P ratios on primary production and N2 fixation in the ETNA surface ocean, we conducted land-based mesocosm experiments with natural plankton communities and applied a broad range of N : P ratios (2.67-48). Silicic acid was supplied at 15 µmol L-1 in all mesocosms. We monitored nutrient drawdown, biomass accumulation and nitrogen fixation in response to variable nutrient stoichiometry. Our results confirmed nitrate to be the key factor determining primary production. We found that excess phosphate was channeled through particulate organic matter (POP) into the dissolved organic matter (DOP) pool. In mesocosms with low inorganic phosphate availability, DOP was utilized while N2 fixation increased, suggesting a link between those two processes. Interestingly this observation was most pronounced in mesocosms where nitrate was still available, indicating that bioavailable N does not necessarily suppress N2 fixation. We observed a shift from a mixed cyanobacteria-proteobacteria dominated active diazotrophic community towards a diatom-diazotrophic association of the Richelia-Rhizosolenia symbiosis. We hypothesize that a potential change in nutrient stoichiometry in the ETNA might lead to a general shift within

Changing nutrient stoichiometry affects phytoplankton production, DOP build up and dinitrogen fixation - a mesocosm experiment in the eastern tropical North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, J.; Löscher, C. R.; Neulinger, S. C.; Reichel, A. F.; Loginova, A.; Borchard, C.; Schmitz, R. A.; Hauss, H.; Kiko, R.; Riebesell, U.

2015-07-01

Ocean deoxygenation due to climate change may alter redox-sensitive nutrient cycles in the marine environment. The productive eastern tropical North Atlantic (ETNA) upwelling region may be particularly affected when the relatively moderate oxygen minimum zone (OMZ) deoxygenates further and microbially-driven nitrogen (N) loss processes are promoted. Consequently, water masses with a low N : P ratio could reach the euphotic layer, possibly influencing primary production in those waters. Previous mesocosm studies in the oligotrophic Atlantic Ocean identified N availability as controlling of primary production, while a possible co-limitation of nitrate and phosphate (P) could not be ruled out. To better understand the impact of changing N : P ratios on primary production and on N2 fixation in the ETNA surface ocean, we conducted land-based mesocosm experiments with natural plankton communities and applied a broad range of N : P ratios (2.67-48). Silicate was supplied at 15 μmol L-1 in all mesocosms. We monitored nutrient drawdown, bloom formation, biomass build up and diazotrophic feedback in response to variable nutrient stoichiometry. Our results confirmed N to be limiting to primary production. We found that excess P was channeled through particulate organic matter (POP) into the dissolved organic matter (DOP) pool. In mesocosms with low P availability, DOP was utilized while N2 fixation increased, suggesting a link between those two processes. Interestingly this observation was most pronounced in mesocosms where inorganic N was still available, indicating that bioavailable N does not necessarily has to have a negative impact on N2 fixation. We observed a shift from a mixed cyanobacterial/proteobacterial dominated active diazotrophic community towards diazotrophic diatom symbionts of the Richelia-Rhizosolenia symbiosis. We hypothesize that a potential change in nutrient stoichiometry in the ETNA might lead to a general shift within the diazotrophic community

Midodrine hydrochloride and L-threo-3,4-dihydroxy-phenylserine preserve cerebral blood flow in hemodialysis patients with orthostatic hypotension.

PubMed

Fujisaki, Kiichiro; Kanai, Hidetoshi; Hirakata, Hideki; Nakamura, Sachiko; Koga, Yuko; Hattori, Fumitada; Iida, Mitsuo

2007-02-01

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) after hemodialysis (HD) is a serious complication, as it causes various neurological symptoms and even ischemic brain damage. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of antihypotensive agents, midodrine hydrochloride (MID) and L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS), on OH after HD. We measured systolic blood pressure (SBP) and cerebral blood flow velocity in the middle cerebral artery (MCVm, by transcranial Doppler sonography), in patients with OH during a 5-min 60-degree head-up tilt test at both before and after 4-week treatment with MID at 4 mg/day (N = 6) or L-DOPS at 400 mg/day (N = 7). Both MID and L-DOPS did not significantly protect against falls in systolic BP (SBP) after passive head-up tilt. However, a significant improvement was achieved in MCVm-decrement in the MID group at 3 min and the L-DOPS group at 0, 1 and 3 min during head-up tilt. Although MID and L-DOPS did not prevent OH after HD in HD patients, both agents preserved cerebral blood flow during orthostasis in HD patients with OH.

DOP-2 D2-Like Receptor Regulates UNC-7 Innexins to Attenuate Recurrent Sensory Motor Neurons during C. elegans Copulation

PubMed Central

Correa, Paola A.; Gruninger, Todd

2015-01-01

Neuromodulation of self-amplifying circuits directs context-dependent behavioral executions. Although recurrent networks are found throughout the Caenorhabditis elegans connectome, few reports describe the mechanisms that regulate reciprocal neural activity during complex behavior. We used C. elegans male copulation to dissect how a goal-oriented motor behavior is regulated by recurrently wired sensory-motor neurons. As the male tail presses against the hermaphrodite's vulva, cholinergic and glutamatergic reciprocal innervations of post cloaca sensilla (PCS) neurons (PCA, PCB, and PCC), hook neurons (HOA, HOB), and their postsynaptic sex muscles execute rhythmic copulatory spicule thrusts. These repetitive spicule movements continue until the male shifts off the vulva or genital penetration is accomplished. However, the signaling mechanism that temporally and spatially restricts repetitive intromission attempts to vulva cues was unclear. Here, we report that confinement of spicule insertion attempts to the vulva is facilitated by D2-like receptor modulation of gap-junctions between PCB and the hook sensillum. We isolated a missense mutation in the UNC-7(L) gap-junction isoform, which perturbs DOP-2 signaling in the PCB neuron and its electrical partner, HOA. The glutamate-gated chloride channel AVR-14 is expressed in HOA. Our analysis of the unc-7 mutant allele indicates that when DOP-2 promotes UNC-7 electrical communication, AVR-14-mediated inhibitory signals pass from HOA to PCB. As a consequence, PCB is less receptive to be stimulated by its recurrent synaptic partner, PCA. Behavioral observations suggest that dopamine neuromodulation of UNC-7 ensures attenuation of recursive intromission attempts when the male disengages or is dislodged from the hermaphrodite genitalia. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Using C. elegans male copulation as a model, we found that the neurotransmitter dopamine stimulates D2-like receptors in two sensory circuits to terminate futile

The Differential Outcomes Procedure Enhances Adherence to Treatment: A Simulated Study with Healthy Adults

PubMed Central

Molina, Michael; Plaza, Victoria; Fuentes, Luis J.; Estévez, Angeles F.

2015-01-01

Memory for medical recommendations is a prerequisite for good adherence to treatment, and therefore to ameliorate the negative effects of the disease, a problem that mainly affects people with memory deficits. We conducted a simulated study to test the utility of a procedure (the differential outcomes procedure, DOP) that may improve adherence to treatment by increasing the patient’s learning and retention of medical recommendations regarding medication. The DOP requires the structure of a conditional discriminative learning task in which correct choice responses to specific stimulus–stimulus associations are reinforced with a particular reinforcer or outcome. In two experiments, participants had to learn and retain in their memory the pills that were associated with particular disorders. To assess whether the DOP improved long-term retention of the learned disorder/pill associations, participants were asked to perform two recognition memory tests, 1 h and 1 week after completing the learning phase. The results showed that compared with the standard non-differential outcomes procedure, the DOP produced better learning and long-term retention of the previously learned associations. These findings suggest that the DOP can be used as a useful complementary technique in intervention programs targeted at increasing adherence to clinical recommendations. PMID:26913010

Dissolved organic phosphorus and its bioavailable fraction in the Baltic Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nausch, M.; Nausch, G.; Setzkorn, D.; Welz, Ä.

2009-04-01

In general, it is accepted that dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) is besides dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) a source for phosphorus nutrition of phyto- and bacterioplankton. If available, DIP is usually preferred to DOP. DOP becomes the most important source under DIP depleted conditions occurring in the Baltic Sea in summer. However, its contribution to nutrition and consequently its significance is very difficult to appraise because only the bioavailable fraction (BAP = bioavailable phosphorus) can be used by organisms. DOP comprises also inert compounds which persist over longer periods. Therefore, there is an urgent need to quantify the bioavailable DOP. In 2004 and 2005, DOP and BAP concentrations were detected in surface water at three stations in the central Baltic Sea from May until July. In June/July 2008 an intensive measuring campaign was performed throughout the whole Baltic Sea. DOP measurements were done from the entrance to the North Sea in the West until the innermost parts of the Gulf of Bothnia in the North and the Gulf of Finland in the East. BAP was determined at 14 stations in the central and northern parts. DOP was determined using the alkaline potassium peroxidisulphate oxidation method followed by the manual DIP determination. BAP has been detected in time course experiments using 0.8 µm filtered sea water containing free-living heterotrophic bacteria and amended with 7 µM ammonium chloride and 1mg l-1 D-(+) glucosemonohydrate to prevent nitrogen and carbon limitation and increase the phosphorus demand in bacteria. BAP is defined as that proportion of DOP which is used by bacteria and calculated as the difference of DOP concentrations at the beginning and the lowest concentrations during an incubation for 4-6 days. In 2004 and 2005, most DOP concentrations ranged between 0.18 and 0.32 µM, with a declining tendency from spring to summer probably due to elevated uptake compared to its release caused by higher temperatures and DIP

Polysaccharides of Dendrobium officinale Kimura & Migo protect gastric mucosal cell against oxidative damage-induced apoptosis in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Zeng, Qiang; Ko, Chun-Hay; Siu, Wing-Sum; Li, Long-Fei; Han, Xiao-Qiang; Yang, Liu; Bik-San Lau, Clara; Hu, Jiang-Miao; Leung, Ping-Chung

2017-08-17

Dendrobium officinale Kimura & Migo (DO) is a valuable Traditional Chinese Medicine to nourish stomach, in which polysaccharides are identified as active ingredients. However, limited scientific evidences have been reported on the gastroprotective efficacy of DO. The aim of the current study was to investigate the protective effects and underlying mechanism of polysaccharides from DO(DOP) on gastric mucosal injury. For in vitro study, HFE145 cells were pretreated with DOP before induction of cell apoptosis by H 2 O 2 . Cell apoptosis and related proteins expression were detected. In the in vivo study, absolute ethanol was administered orally to induce gastric mucosal injury in rat. The gastric mucosal injury area and histological examination were used to evaluate the effects of DOP treatment on the recovery of the gastric mucosal injury. H 2 O 2 treatment for 6h significantly induced cell apoptosis in HFE145 cells. However, the destructive effects of H 2 O 2 on HFE 145 cells could be reversed by the pretreatment with DOP. The increased ROS level induced by H 2 O 2 for 4h was reduced after DOP pretreatment. The number of apoptotic cells in both early and late apoptosis stages decreased significantly and the nuclei morphology changes were improved with DOP pretreatment. Furthermore, DOP inhibited caspase 3 activation and PARP cleavage, downregulated Bax expression and upregulated Bcl2 expression in cell model. Further study revealed that pretreatment of DOP inhibited p -NF-κBp65/NF-κBp65 level, indicating DOP inhibited H 2 O 2 -mediated apoptosis via suppression of NF-κB activation. In addition, DOP treatment could ameliorate gastric mucosal injury and inhibit mucin loss induced by ethanol in animal model. DOP treatment also interfered with ethanol-induced apoptosis process by downregulating Bax/Bcl2 ratio in gastric mucosa. The present study was the first one to demonstrate the gastroprotective effect of DOP through inhibiting oxidative stress-induced apoptosis

Anti-Fatigue Effects of the Unique Polysaccharide Marker of Dendrobium officinale on BALB/c Mice.

PubMed

Wei, Wei; Li, Zhi-Peng; Zhu, Tong; Fung, Hau-Yee; Wong, Tin-Long; Wen, Xin; Ma, Dik-Lung; Leung, Chung-Hang; Han, Quan-Bin

2017-01-18

Dendrobium officinale extract shows potent anti-fatigue effects; however, the active substance responsible for these effects remains undetermined. A glucomannan with a huge molecular size of 730 kDa, called DOP, was identified as the unique authentication marker of this expensive herb. DOP exhibited immunomodulating effects on macrophages and lymphocytes in our previous study. Clinical reports also showed that people with fatigue syndrome have a disturbed immune system. Because DOP is the unique and dominant component of D. officinale , we hypothesize that DOP may also have anti-fatigue activity. The present study aims to evaluate the anti-fatigue activity of DOP on BALB/c mice, with Rhodiola rosea extract as a positive control. DOP and Rhodiola rosea extract were orally administered at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, respectively, for four weeks, and the anti-fatigue activity of DOP on BALB/c mice was evaluated using the weight-loaded swimming test. The contents of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CK), triglyceride (TG), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), lactic acid (LD), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) in serum, glycogen of liver and gastrocnemius muscle were also determined. Their effects on variability of T cells and B cells were determined by using tetrazolium compound (MTS) method. The weight-loaded swimming exercise caused fatigue syndrome, mainly including the decreases of serum SOD/GSH-Px and gastrocnemius glycogen, as well as the increases of LDH, BUN, MDA, CK, TG, and LD in serum. All of these indicators of fatigue were inhibited to a certain extent by both DOP and Rhodiola rosea extract; however, the effects of DOP were much stronger than those of Rhodiola rosea extract. Compared to the positive control, mice dosed with DOP showed increases in endurance, body weight, and food intake. Furthermore, DOP-feeding mice significantly increased the cell variability of T lymphocytes and B

Antioxidant Enzyme Activity and Meat Quality of Meat Type Ducks Fed with Dried Oregano (Origanum vulgare L.) Powder

PubMed Central

Park, J. H.; Kang, S. N.; Shin, D.; Shim, K. S.

2015-01-01

One-day-old Cherry valley meat-strain ducks were used to investigate the effect of supplemental dried oregano powder (DOP) in feed on the productivity, antioxidant enzyme activity, and breast meat quality. One hundred sixty five ducks were assigned to 5 dietary treatments for 42 days. The dietary treatment groups were control group (CON; no antibiotic, no DOP), antibiotic group (ANT; CON+0.1% Patrol), 0.1% DOP (CON+0.1% DOP), 0.5% DOP (CON+0.5% DOP), and 1.0% DOP (CON+1.0% DOP). Upon feeding, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity of oregano extracts was higher than that of tocopherol, although it was less than that of ascorbic acid. As a result of in vivo study, DOP in the diet showed no effects on final body weight, feed intake, or feed conversion ratio. However, dietary 0.5% and 1% DOP supplementation caused a significant increase in the serum enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) compared with CON and ANT, while glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in tissue was increased as compared to ANT (p<0.05). Cooking loss from ducks fed with DOP decreased compared with the control ducks. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) values of duck breast meat at 5 d post slaughter was found to be significantly reduced in ducks whose diets were supplemented with 0.5% and 1% DOP (p<0.05). These results suggest that diets containing 0.5% and 1% DOP may beneficially affect antioxidant enzyme activity of GPx and SOD, improve meat cooking loss, and reduce TBARS values in breast meat at 5 d of storage in ducks. PMID:25557678

Effects of L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine on orthostatic hypotension in hemodialysis patients.

PubMed

Iida, Nobutoshi; Koshikawa, Syozo; Akizawa, Tadao; Tsubakihara, Yoshiharu; Marumo, Fumiaki; Akiba, Takashi; Kawaguchi, Yoshindo; Imada, Akio; Yamazaki, Chikao; Suzuki, Masashi

2002-01-01

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a serious complication observed in hemodialysis (HD) patients after HD as well as during the interdialytic period. L-Threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS) is a nonphysiological neutral amino acid that is directly converted to the neurotransmitter norepinephrine by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase. A placebo-controlled double-blind study for 4 consecutive weeks and a long-term study (24-52 weeks) were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of L-DOPS for OH after HD. The drug was administered orally 30 min before the start of each HD period in both studies. Doses of 400 mg of L-DOPS or placebo were given to HD patients with OH (45 and 41 patients, respectively) in the double-blind study, and doses of 200 or 400 mg of L-DOPS were given to 74 HD patients in the long-term study. In the double-blind study, L-DOPS significantly ameliorated subjective symptoms related to OH, including dizziness/light-headed feeling, and malaise, throughout the interdialytic period. For 19 patients with delayed-type OH, hypotension with the lowest blood pressure recorded 10 min after standing, the decrease in blood pressure was suppressed significantly after L-DOPS treatment (10 patients) as compared with the placebo-treated group (9 patients). In the long-term study, the efficacy of L-DOPS was not attenuated, and the marked fluctuations in the plasma L-DOPS and norepinephrine levels were not noted after long-term use, without increases in incidence or severity of adverse reactions. These results indicate that L-DOPS is effective for improving OH-related interdialytic subjective symptoms in HD patients after short-term as well as after long-term administration. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel

[A concertation experience: prevention of WMSDs in workmanship of Parmigiano-Reggiano].

PubMed

Zecchi, G

2012-01-01

The dairy industry of Parmigiano-Reggiano represents in Emilia a resource and an important source of employment. A Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) regulates all stages of processing of milk into cheese "forms" in excess of 40 kg weight, favouring a "traditional" working which involves various manual steps tiring and stressful. From 2002 to 2008 the Service in charge of the Azienda USL of Reggio Emilia has developed a plan focused on musculoskeletal risks in this sector. The need for comparison on the conservation "craftsmanship" of the complex manufacturing process maintaining high attention to health and safety brought the AUSL of Reggio E. and later the AUSL of Modena and Parma, to choose the path of concertation with the social partners, aiming at substantial and non-formal application of the law. It is thus obtained the adoption of preventive measures in a sector so peculiar, complex and constantly changing. Conciliation remains privileged tool in relations between social partners and AUSL of Reggio E. in dairies.

Characterising DOC, DON and DOP flux in two contrasting lowland UK catchments: impacts of contrasting source character and connectivity on reach scale DOM signature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yates, C. A.; Johnes, P.; Spencer, R. G.

2012-12-01

Riverine DOM is a significant component of C, N and P transport from source to sea. Research to date has focused on characterising DOC in upland and boreal moorland and forested catchments. Here we present the results of an investigation of DOM character and DOC, DON and DOP flux relative to C, N and P flux in two contrasting lowland UK catchments: the Wylye and Millersford Brook. Both were sampled at daily frequency at 3 sites over a 2 year period, (2010-11 WY, 2011-12 WY) with fluorescence EEMs and UV-Vis determined weekly. The Wylye is a Chalk catchment, underlain by a major aquifer. It has predominantly calcareous brown earth soils, intensive arable agriculture, scattered farms and riparian villages with a major settlement in the lower reaches of the river. There are few natural organic sources in the catchment and flows are baseflow dominated with a BFI of 0.93. DOC (NPOC) concentrations averaged 2.59 mg C/l in water year 2011-12, while Total N concentrations averaged 10.0 mg N/l, with DON averaging 0.9 mg N/l, and Total P concentrations averaged 0.18 mg/l with DOP averaging 0.026 mg/l. Millersford Brook drains peaty soils over glacial sands and clays, with moorland and forestry as the dominant land uses. Flows are dominated by overland and subsurface quick flow through with a BFI of 0.34. There is some low intensity grazing, no fertiliser use and no dwellings in the headwaters of the catchment. As a result nutrient concentrations are lower, but C flux is higher, with mean annual concentrations in WY 2011-12 of 0.93 mg TN/l, 0.051 mg TP/l, 8.83 mg DOC/l, 0.55 mg DON/l and 0.029 mg DOP/l. DOM character in Millersford Brook is comparable for that observed in other catchments with peaty soils and low acid neutralising capacity. The character of DOM varies along the length of the river, with HMW compounds dominating the signal in the headwaters, and LMW fluorescence intensities added to the signal in the lower reaches of the river, where septic tank effluent

Further evaluation of alternative air-filtration systems for reducing the transmission of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus by aerosol

PubMed Central

Deen, John; Cano, Jean Paul; Batista, Laura; Pijoan, Carlos

2006-01-01

Abstract The purpose of this study was to compare 4 methods for the reduction of aerosol transmission of Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV): high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration, 2×-low-cost filtration, bag filtration, and use of a filter tested against particles derived from dioctylphthalate (DOP). The HEPA-filtration system used a prefilter screen, a bag filter (Eurovent [EU] 8 rating), and a HEPA filter (EU13 rating). The low-cost-filtration system contained mosquito netting (prefilter), 2 fiberglass furnace filters, and 2 electrostatic furnace filters. Bag filtration involved the use of a filter rated EU8 and a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of 14. The 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm-filtration system involved a pleat-in-pleat V-bank disposable filter with a 95% efficiency rating for particles 0.3 μm or greater in diameter and ratings of EU9 and MERV 15. No form of intervention was used in the control group. The experimental facilities consisted of 2 chambers connected by a 1.3-m-long duct containing the treatments. Recipient pigs, housed in chamber 2, were exposed to artificial aerosols created by a mechanically operated mister containing modified live PRRSV vaccine located in chamber 1. Aerosol transmission of PRRSV occurred in 0 of the 10 HEPA-filtration replicates, 2 of the 10 bag-filtration replicates, 4 of the 10 low-cost-filtration replicates, 0 of the 10 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm-filtration replicates, and all 10 of the control replicates. Using a similar approach, we further evaluated the HEPA- and 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm-filtration systems. Infection was not observed in any of the 76 HEPA-filtration replicates but was observed in 2 of the 76 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm replicates and 42 of the 50 control replicates. Although the difference between the 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm and control replicates was significant (P < 0.0005), so was the level of failure of the 95%-DOP, 0.3-μm system (P = 0.02). In conclusion, under the conditions of this study

Evidence for production and lateral transport of dissolved organic phosphorus in the eastern subtropical North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reynolds, Sarah; Mahaffey, Claire; Roussenov, Vassil; Williams, Richard G.

2014-08-01

The concentration of phosphate and dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) is chronically low and limits phytoplankton growth in the subtropical North Atlantic relative to other ocean basins. Transport of phosphate and DOP from the productive flanks of the gyre to its interior has been hypothesized as an important phosphorus supply pathway. During a cruise in the eastern Atlantic in spring 2011, the rates of phosphate uptake, alkaline phosphatase activity (APA), and DOP production were measured in the northwest African shelf region, subtropics, and tropics. Rates of DOP production were sixfold higher in the shelf region (43 ± 41 nM d-1) relative to the subtropics (6.9 ± 4.4 nM d-1). In contrast, APA was threefold higher in the subtropics (8.0 ± 7.3 nM d-1), indicative of enhanced DOP utilization, relative to the shelf region (2.6 ± 2.1 nM d-1). Hence, observations suggest net production of DOP in the shelf region and either net consumption of DOP or a near balance in DOP production and consumption in the gyre interior. Eddy-permitting model experiments demonstrate that (i) DOP accounts for over half the total phosphorus in surface waters, (ii) DOP is transported westward from the shelf region by a combination of gyre and eddy circulations, and (iii) advected DOP supports up to 70% of the particle export over much of the subtropical gyre. Our combined observational and modeling study supports the view that the horizontal transport of DOP from the shelf region is an important mechanism supplying phosphorus to the surface subtropical North Atlantic.

Acute pandysautonomia: mass spectrometric and histopathological studies of the sympathetic nervous system during long term L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine treatment.

PubMed Central

Ushiyama, M; Ikeda, S; Suzuki, T; Yazawa, M; Yanagisawa, N; Tsujino, S

1996-01-01

Stable isotope labelled L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS) infusion tests and histopathological studies of the rectal autonomic nerves were performed in a patient with acute pandysautonomia. A pronounced increase in blood pressure occurred and stable isotope labelled noradrenaline appeared in the plasma during L-DOPS infusion in the acute stage, but decreased during the next three years. Noradrenergic nerve fibres in the rectal mucosa showed no recovery, and so clinical improvement had occurred without apparent significant regeneration of the peripheral autonomic nerves. Images PMID:8676171

The Unique Dopamine/Ecdysteroid Receptor Modulates Ethanol-Induced Sedation in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Petruccelli, Emily; Li, Qi; Rao, Yi

2016-01-01

improvement of prevention and treatment strategies for alcohol-use disorders requires a better understanding of their biological basis. Steroid hormones profoundly affect alcohol-induced behaviors, but the contribution of their unconventional, nongenomic actions during these responses has not yet been elucidated. We found that Drosophila DopEcR, a unique G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with dual specificity for dopamine and steroids, mediates noncanonical steroid actions to promote ethanol-induced sedation. Because steroid signaling and the behavioral response to alcohol are evolutionarily well conserved, our findings suggest that analogous mammalian receptors likely play important roles in alcohol-use disorders. Our work provides a foundation for further characterizing the function and mechanisms of action of nonclassical steroid GPCR signaling. PMID:27098705

The Unique Dopamine/Ecdysteroid Receptor Modulates Ethanol-Induced Sedation in Drosophila.

PubMed

Petruccelli, Emily; Li, Qi; Rao, Yi; Kitamoto, Toshihiro

2016-04-20

Steroids profoundly influence behavioral responses to alcohol by activating canonical nuclear hormone receptors and exerting allosteric effects on ion channels. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that steroids can also trigger biological effects by directly binding G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), yet physiological roles of such unconventional steroid signaling in controlling alcohol-induced behaviors remain unclear. The dopamine/ecdysteroid receptor (DopEcR) is a GPCR that mediates nongenomic actions of ecdysteroids, the major steroid hormones in insects. Here, we report that Drosophila DopEcR plays a critical role in ethanol-induced sedation.DopEcR mutants took longer than control flies to become sedated during exposure to ethanol, despite having normal ethanol absorption or metabolism. RNAi-mediated knockdown of DopEcR expression revealed that this receptor is necessary after eclosion, and is required in particular neuronal subsets, including cholinergic and peptidergic neurons, to mediate this behavior. Additionally, flies ubiquitously overexpressing DopEcR cDNA had a tendency to become sedated quickly upon ethanol exposure. These results indicate that neuronal subset-specific expression of DopEcR in adults is required for normal sedation upon exposure to ethanol. We also obtained evidence indicating that DopEcR may promote ethanol sedation by suppressing epidermal growth factor receptor/extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling. Last, genetic and pharmacological analyses suggested that in adult flies ecdysone may serve as an inverse agonist of DopEcR and suppress the sedation-promoting activity of DopEcR in the context of ethanol exposure. Our findings provide the first evidence for the involvement of nongenomic G-protein-coupled steroid receptors in the response to alcohol, and shed new light on the potential roles of steroids in alcohol-use disorders. Alcohol abuse is an alarming personal and societal burden. The improvement of prevention and

Splenic gene delivery system using self-assembling nano-complex with phosphatidylserine analog.

PubMed

Kurosaki, Tomoaki; Nakasone, Chihiro; Kodama, Yukinobu; Egashira, Kanoko; Harasawa, Hitomi; Muro, Takahiro; Nakagawa, Hiroo; Kitahara, Takashi; Higuchi, Norihide; Nakamura, Tadahiro; Sasaki, Hitoshi

2015-01-01

The recognition of phosphatidylserine on the erythrocyte membrane mediates erythrophagocytosis by resident spleen macrophages. The application of phosphatidylserine to a gene vector may be a novel approach for splenic drug delivery. Therefore, we chose 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serin (DOPS) as an analogue of phosphatidylserine for splenic gene delivery of plasmid DNA (pDNA). In the present study, we successfully prepared a stable pDNA ternary complex using DOPS and polyethyleneimine (PEI) and evaluated its efficacy and safety. The pDNA/PEI complex had a positive charge and showed high transgene efficacy, although it caused cytotoxicity and agglutination. The addition of DOPS changed the ζ-potential of the pDNA/PEI complex to negative. It is known that anionic complexes are not taken up well by cells. Surprisingly, however, the pDNA/PEI/DOPS complex showed relatively high transgene efficacy in vitro. Fluorescence microscope observation revealed that the pDNA/PEI/DOPS complex internalized the cells while maintaining the complex formation. The injection of the pDNA/PEI complex killed most mice within 24 h at high doses, although all mice in the pDNA/PEI/DOPS complex group survived. The ternary complex with DOPS showed markedly better safety compared with the pDNA/PEI complex. The pDNA/PEI/DOPS complex showed high gene expression selectively in the spleen after intravenous injection into mice. Thus the ternary complex with DOPS can be used to deliver pDNA to the spleen, in which immune cells are abundant. It appears to have an excellent safety level, although further study to determine the mechanism of action is necessary.

Pharmacological characterization of the bifunctional opioid ligand H-Dmt-Tic-Gly-NH-Bzl (UFP-505).

PubMed

Dietis, N; McDonald, J; Molinari, S; Calo, G; Guerrini, R; Rowbotham, D J; Lambert, D G

2012-02-01

While producing good-quality analgesia, µ-opioid (MOP) receptor activation produces a number of side-effects including tolerance. Simultaneous blockade of δ-opioid (DOP) receptors has been shown to reduce tolerance to morphine. Here, we characterize a prototype bifunctional opioid H-Dmt-Tic-Gly-NH-Bzl (UFP-505). We measured receptor binding affinity in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells expressing recombinant human MOP, DOP, k-opioid (KOP), nociceptin/orphanin (NOP) receptors. For activation, we measured the binding of GTPγ(35)S to membranes from CHO(hMOP), CHO(hDOP), rat cerebrocortex, and rat spinal cord. In addition, we assessed 'end organ' responses in the guinea pig ileum and mouse vas deferens. UFP-505 bound to CHO(hMOP) and CHO(hDOP) with (binding affinity) pK(i) values of 7.79 and 9.82, respectively. There was a weak interaction at KOP and NOP (pK(i) 6.29 and 5.86). At CHO(hMOP), UFP-505 stimulated GTPγ(35)S binding with potency (pEC(50)) of 6.37 and in CHO(hDOP) reversed the effects of a DOP agonist with affinity (pK(b)) of 9.81 (in agreement with pK(i) at DOP). UFP-505 also stimulated GTPγ(35)S binding in rat cerebrocortex and spinal cord with pEC(50) values of 6.11-6.53. In the guinea pig ileum (MOP-rich preparation), UFP-505 inhibited contractility with pEC(50) of 7.50 and in the vas deferens (DOP-rich preparation) reversed the effects of a DOP agonist with an affinity (pA(2)) of 9.15. We have shown in a range of preparations and assays that UFP-505 behaves as a potent MOP agonist and DOP antagonist; a MOP/DOP bifunctional opioid. Further studies in dual expression systems and whole animals with this prototype are warranted.

Modulation of motor behavior by dopamine and the D1-like dopamine receptor AmDOP2 in the honey bee

PubMed Central

Mustard, Julie A.; Pham, Priscilla M.; Smith, Brian H.

2009-01-01

Determining the specific molecular pathways through which dopamine affects behavior has been complicated by the presence of multiple dopamine receptor subtypes that couple to different second messenger pathways. The observation of freely moving adult bees in an arena was used to investigate the role of dopamine signaling in regulating the behavior of the honey bee. Dopamine or the dopamine receptor antagonist flupenthixol was injected into the hemolymph of worker honey bees. Significant differences between treated and control bees were seen for all behaviors (walking, stopped, upside down, grooming, flying and fanning), and behavioral shifts were dependent on drug dosage and time after injection. To examine the role of dopamine signaling through a specific dopamine receptor in the brain, RNA interference was used to reduce expression levels of a D1-like receptor, AmDOP2. Injection of Amdop2 dsRNA into the mushroom bodies reduced the levels of Amdop2 mRNA and produced significant changes in the amount of time honey bees spent performing specific behaviors with reductions in time spent walking offset by increases in grooming or time spent stopped. Taken together these results establish that dopamine plays an important role in regulating motor behavior of the honey bee. PMID:19945462

Modulation of motor behavior by dopamine and the D1-like dopamine receptor AmDOP2 in the honey bee.

PubMed

Mustard, Julie A; Pham, Priscilla M; Smith, Brian H

2010-04-01

Determining the specific molecular pathways through which dopamine affects behavior has been complicated by the presence of multiple dopamine receptor subtypes that couple to different second messenger pathways. The observation of freely moving adult bees in an arena was used to investigate the role of dopamine signaling in regulating the behavior of the honey bee. Dopamine or the dopamine receptor antagonist flupenthixol was injected into the hemolymph of worker honey bees. Significant differences between treated and control bees were seen for all behaviors (walking, stopped, upside down, grooming, flying and fanning), and behavioral shifts were dependent on drug dosage and time after injection. To examine the role of dopamine signaling through a specific dopamine receptor in the brain, RNA interference was used to reduce expression levels of a D1-like receptor, AmDOP2. Injection of Amdop2 dsRNA into the mushroom bodies reduced the levels of Amdop2 mRNA and produced significant changes in the amount of time honey bees spent performing specific behaviors with reductions in time spent walking offset by increases in grooming or time spent stopped. Taken together these results establish that dopamine plays an important role in regulating motor behavior of the honey bee. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

L-threo 3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine treatment during mouse perinatal and rat postnatal development does not alter the impact of dietary copper deficiency

PubMed Central

Pyatskowit, Joshua W.; Prohaska, Joseph R.

2009-01-01

Dietary copper (Cu) deficiency was induced perinatally in Swiss Albino mice and postnatally in male Holtzman rats to investigate the effect of L-threo 3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (DOPS) on pup survival and catecholamine levels in a 2 × 2 factorial design. Mouse dams were placed on one of four treatments 14 days after mating and rats at postnatal day 19 (P19). Treatments were Cu-adequate (Cu +) and Cu-deficient (Cu −) diets with or without DOPS (1 mg/ml) in the drinking water. Mouse pups were killed at P14 and rats at P49. Mortality in Cu − pups was 46% and not significantly improved by DOPS, 39%. A repeat study with mice adding ascorbic acid in the water with DOPS showed no improvement. Compared to Cu + animals, Cu − animals were smaller, anemic and had a 92% reduction in liver Cu. DOPS treatment made no improvement to and in some cases exacerbated the Cu deficiency. Catecholamine levels measured in heart and brain by LCEC showed decreased NE levels and increased DA levels in Cu − animals compared to controls. DOPS treatment did not alter this pattern. Although DOPS was present in treated animal’s tissues, survival in mice and catecholamine levels in mice and rats were not altered by the 1 mg/ml dose of DOPS. PMID:16117185

Prolonged morphine treatment alters δ opioid receptor post-internalization trafficking

PubMed Central

Ong, E W; Xue, L; Olmstead, M C; Cahill, C M

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The δ opioid receptor (DOP receptor) undergoes internalization both constitutively and in response to agonists. Previous work has shown that DOP receptors traffic from intracellular compartments to neuronal cell membranes following prolonged morphine treatment. Here, we examined the effects of prolonged morphine treatment on the post-internalization trafficking of DOP receptors. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using primary cultures of dorsal root ganglia neurons, we measured the co-localization of endogenous DOP receptors with post-endocytic compartments following both prolonged and acute agonist treatments. KEY RESULTS A departure from the constitutive trafficking pathway was observed following acute DOP receptor agonist-induced internalization by deltorphin II. That is, the DOP receptor underwent distinct agonist-induced post-endocytic sorting. Following prolonged morphine treatment, constitutive DOP receptor trafficking was augmented. SNC80 following prolonged morphine treatment also caused non-constitutive DOP receptor agonist-induced post-endocytic sorting. The μ opioid receptor (MOP receptor) agonist DAMGO induced DOP receptor internalization and trafficking following prolonged morphine treatment. Finally, all of the alterations to DOP receptor trafficking induced by both DOP and MOP receptor agonists were inhibited or absent when those agonists were co-administered with a DOP receptor antagonist, SDM-25N. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results support the hypothesis that prolonged morphine treatment induces the formation of MOP–DOP receptor interactions and subsequent augmentation of the available cell surface DOP receptors, at least some of which are in the form of a MOP/DOP receptor species. The pharmacology and trafficking of this species appear to be unique compared to those of its individual constituents. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other

Prolonged morphine treatment alters δ opioid receptor post-internalization trafficking.

PubMed

Ong, E W; Xue, L; Olmstead, M C; Cahill, C M

2015-01-01

The δ opioid receptor (DOP receptor) undergoes internalization both constitutively and in response to agonists. Previous work has shown that DOP receptors traffic from intracellular compartments to neuronal cell membranes following prolonged morphine treatment. Here, we examined the effects of prolonged morphine treatment on the post-internalization trafficking of DOP receptors. Using primary cultures of dorsal root ganglia neurons, we measured the co-localization of endogenous DOP receptors with post-endocytic compartments following both prolonged and acute agonist treatments. A departure from the constitutive trafficking pathway was observed following acute DOP receptor agonist-induced internalization by deltorphin II. That is, the DOP receptor underwent distinct agonist-induced post-endocytic sorting. Following prolonged morphine treatment, constitutive DOP receptor trafficking was augmented. SNC80 following prolonged morphine treatment also caused non-constitutive DOP receptor agonist-induced post-endocytic sorting. The μ opioid receptor (MOP receptor) agonist DAMGO induced DOP receptor internalization and trafficking following prolonged morphine treatment. Finally, all of the alterations to DOP receptor trafficking induced by both DOP and MOP receptor agonists were inhibited or absent when those agonists were co-administered with a DOP receptor antagonist, SDM-25N. The results support the hypothesis that prolonged morphine treatment induces the formation of MOP-DOP receptor interactions and subsequent augmentation of the available cell surface DOP receptors, at least some of which are in the form of a MOP/DOP receptor species. The pharmacology and trafficking of this species appear to be unique compared to those of its individual constituents. This article is part of a themed section on Opioids: New Pathways to Functional Selectivity. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue-2. © 2014 The Authors. British

Mass spectrometric measurements of norepinephrine synthesis in man from infusion of stable isotope-labelled L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Suzuki, T.; Sakoda, S.; Ueji, M.

The kinetics of stable isotope-labelled L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-threo-DOPS), an immediate precursor of (-)-norepinephrine, was studied to investigate the pharmacologic mechanism of its therapeutic effect on orthostatic hypotension in familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) and on akinesia and freezing in parkinsonism. (/sup 13/C,D)-L-threo-DOPS was synthesized, and 100 mg of the compound was infused for 2 h into two normal subjects, two FAP patients and two patients with the degenerative diseases of the central nervous system. Labelled and endogenous norepinephrine in urine and plasma was assayed simultaneously by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The results indicate that the increase in norepinephrine in biological fluids after administrationmore » of L-threo-DOPS is attributable mostly to norepinephrine derived from L-threo-DOPS, not to pre-formed endogenous norepinephrine released by L-threo-DOPS.« less

Structural characterization and immunomodulating activity of polysaccharide from Dendrobium officinale.

PubMed

He, Tao-Bin; Huang, Yan-Ping; Yang, Liu; Liu, Ti-Ti; Gong, Wan-Ying; Wang, Xuan-Jun; Sheng, Jun; Hu, Jiang-Miao

2016-02-01

A neutral heteropolysaccharide (DOP-1-1) consisted by mannose and glucose (5.9:1) with an average molecular weight at about 1.78×10(5) Da was purified from Dendrobium officinale. Based on Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FT-IR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra, it suggested that partial structure of DOP-1-1 is an O-acetylated glucomannan with β-d configuration in pyranose sugar forms. The immunomodulatory activity of DOP-1-1 was evaluated by secretion level of cytokine (interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in vitro. Our results suggested that DOP-1-1 could stimulate cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1β) in cells. These findings demonstrated that the purified polysaccharide from D. officinale presented significant immune-modulating activities. Furthermore, by Western-blot we can found that the signaling pathways of DOP-1-1 induced immune activities involving ERK1/2 and NF-кB. As to antioxidant activity, DOP-1-1 hadn't showed remarkable scavenging capacity of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) in contrast with other studies of polysaccharides from D. officinale. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of midwifery students' satisfaction with direct observation of procedural skills and current methods in evaluation of procedural skills in Mashhad Nursing and Midwifery School.

PubMed

Hoseini, Bibi Leila; Mazloum, Seyed Reza; Jafarnejad, Farzaneh; Foroughipour, Mohsen

2013-03-01

The clinical evaluation, as one of the most important elements in medical education, must measure students' competencies and abilities. The implementation of any assessment tool is basically dependent on the acceptance of students. This study tried to assess midwifery students' satisfaction with Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) and current clinical evaluation methods. This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the university hospitals affiliated to Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The subjects comprised 67 undergraduate midwifery students selected by convenience sampling and allocated to control and intervention groups according to the training transposition. Current method was performed in the control group, and DOPS was conducted in the intervention group. The applied tools included DOPS rating scales, logbook, and satisfaction questionnaires with clinical evaluation methods. Validity and reliability of these tools were approved. At the end of training, students' satisfaction with the evaluation methods was assessed by the mentioned tools. The data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics. Satisfaction mean scores of midwifery students with DOPS and current methods were 76.7 ± 12.9 and 62.6 ± 14.7 (out of 100), respectively. DOPS students' satisfaction mean score was significantly higher than the score obtained in current method (P < 0.000). The most satisfactory domains in the current method were "consistence with learning objectives" (71.2 ± 14.9) and "objectiveness" in DOPS (87.9 ± 15.0). In contrast, the least satisfactory domains in the current method were "interested in applying the method" (57.8 ± 26.5) and "number of assessments for each skill" (58.8 ± 25.9) in DOPS method. This study showed that DOPS method is associated with greater students' satisfaction. Since the students' satisfaction with the current method was also acceptable, we recommend combining this new clinical evaluation method with the current

Light enpolarization by disordered media under partial polarized illumination: the role of cross-scattering coefficients.

PubMed

Zerrad, M; Soriano, G; Ghabbach, A; Amra, C

2013-02-11

We show how disordered media allow to increase the local degree of polarization (DOP) of an arbitrary (partial) polarized incident beam. The role of cross-scattering coefficients is emphasized, together with the probability density functions (PDF) of the scattering DOP. The average DOP of scattering is calculated versus the incident illumination DOP.

Dopamine receptor antagonists as new mode-of-action insecticide leads for control of Aedes and Culex mosquito vectors.

PubMed

Nuss, Andrew B; Ejendal, Karin F K; Doyle, Trevor B; Meyer, Jason M; Lang, Emma G; Watts, Val J; Hill, Catherine A

2015-03-01

New mode-of-action insecticides are sought to provide continued control of pesticide resistant arthropod vectors of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). We previously identified antagonists of the AaDOP2 D1-like dopamine receptor (DAR) from the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, with toxicity to Ae. aegypti larvae as leads for novel insecticides. To extend DAR-based insecticide discovery, we evaluated the molecular and pharmacological characteristics of an orthologous DAR target, CqDOP2, from Culex quinquefasciatus, the vector of lymphatic filariasis and West Nile virus. CqDOP2 has 94.7% amino acid identity to AaDOP2 and 28.3% identity to the human D1-like DAR, hD1. CqDOP2 and AaDOP2 exhibited similar pharmacological responses to biogenic amines and DAR antagonists in cell-based assays. The antagonists amitriptyline, amperozide, asenapine, chlorpromazine and doxepin were between 35 to 227-fold more selective at inhibiting the response of CqDOP2 and AaDOP2 in comparison to hD1. Antagonists were toxic to both C. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti larvae, with LC50 values ranging from 41 to 208 μM 72 h post-exposure. Orthologous DOP2 receptors identified from the African malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae, the sand fly, Phlebotomus papatasi and the tsetse fly, Glossina morsitans, had high sequence similarity to CqDOP2 and AaDOP2. DAR antagonists represent a putative new insecticide class with activity against C. quinquefasciatus and Ae. aegypti, the two most important mosquito vectors of NTDs. There has been limited change in the sequence and pharmacological properties of the DOP2 DARs of these species since divergence of the tribes Culicini and Aedini. We identified antagonists selective for mosquito versus human DARs and observed a correlation between DAR pharmacology and the in vivo larval toxicity of antagonists. These data demonstrate that sequence similarity can be predictive of target potential. On this basis, we propose expanded insecticide discovery around

Difference between observed and predicted glycated hemoglobin at baseline and treatment response to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Wang, Jun-Sing; Hung, Yi-Jen; Lu, Yung-Chuan; Tsai, Cheng-Lin; Yang, Wei-Shiung; Lee, Ting-I; Hsiao, Ya-Chun; Sheu, Wayne Huey-Herng

2018-04-01

We aimed to investigate the association of difference between observed and predicted glycated hemoglobin (dopHbA1c) and HbA1c reduction after vildagliptin-based oral therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). This was a prospective observational study. Adults ≥ 20 years old with T2D and HbA1c ≧7% treated with oral anti-diabetic drugs (OADs) were eligible if their OADs were shifted to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and HbA1c were recorded at baseline, week 12, and week 24. To determine baseline dopHbA1c, a predicted HbA1c was calculated by inserting baseline FPG into a regression equation (HbA1c = FPG ∗ 0.0225 + 4.3806) developed from linear relationship between HbA1c and FPG in an independent cohort of 3239 outpatients with T2D (dopHbA1c = observed HbA1c - predicted HbA1c). Patients were assigned to low (≦0) or high (>0) dopHbA1c group according to their baseline dopHbA1c levels. The study endpoint was changes from baseline to week 24 in HbA1c levels. A total of 1224 patients were enrolled. Patients with a dopHbA1c >0 had a greater HbA1c reduction after vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy than those with a dopHbA1c ≦0 (-1.5 ± 2.0 vs. -0.4 ± 1.0%, p < 0.001). Baseline dopHbA1c was positively associated with HbA1c reduction from baseline to week 24 (β coefficient 0.883, 95% CI 0.811 to 0.955, p < 0.001), and the association remained significant after adjustment for confounders. In T2D patients with an HbA1c ≧7%, a higher baseline dopHbA1c was associated with a greater HbA1c reduction after shifting to vildagliptin-based dual oral therapy. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Long-term effects of di-octyl phthalate on the expression of immune-related genes in Tegillarca granosa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Ji; Li, Ye; Dai, Juan; Su, Xiurong; Li, Chenghua; Shen, Lingling

2016-05-01

Di-octyl phthalate (DOP) is widely used as a plasticizer in the plastics industry. As a result, DOP is often found in marine water ecosystems where many species are exposed to it. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of long-term (14 d) DOP exposure (2.6, 7.8, or 31.2 mg/L) on the expression of immunerelated genes in Tegillarca granosa. The expression of small heat shock protein (sHSPs) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) were highest in clams exposed to 31.2 mg/L DOP on days 7 and 14. The relative expression of Tg-ferritin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and metallothionein (MT) increased initially then decreased as the concentration of DOP increased. The hemoglobin of T. granosa (Tg-HbI) exhibited two distinct expression patterns at two time points. Our results suggest that the immune response of T. granosa against DOP pollution varies depending on the dose. Additionally, we identified some immune-related genes that are promising candidates for biomarkers of DOP.

Cycling of Dissolved Organic Phosphorus and Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Euphotic Zone of the Western North Pacific

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzumura, M.

2010-12-01

Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for marine organisms. In oligotrophic environments, concentrations of dissolved inorganic phosphate (SRP), the most bioavailable form of phosphorus, are low and have been hypothesized to constrain the primary productivity. Evidence has been found that dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) supports a significant fraction of primary production through hydrolytic remineralization of DOP to SRP by alkaline phosphatase (APA). In this study, DOP biogeochemistry was investigated at three locations of the open-ocean environment in the Kuroshio region and at a semi-eutrophic coastal site of the western North Pacific. Concentrations of SRP, DOP and hydrolyzable ester-P were measured in the euphotic zone. Kinetic parameters of APA were determined using a fluorogenic substrate, including potential maximum velocity (Vmax), apparent Michaelis-Menten half-saturation constant (Km), and turnover time (TA) of APA hydrolyzable DOP. SRP concentrations were quite low (≤ 10 nM) in the surface seawater and rapidly increased below the chlorophyll a maximum layer (CML). DOP concentration ranged from 29 to 223 nM. Above the CML, DOP composed a major fraction accounting for 60-100% of dissolved total P. A significant linear relationship was found between the concentrations of SRP and hydrolyzable ester-P (R2 = 0.83, P < 0.01). This suggests active utilization of ester-P under phosphate-depleted conditions. In the Kuroshio region, Vmax of APA exhibited the highest value at the surface water (0 m) and decreased rapidly with depth, while at the coastal site the peak value was found at CML. TA of hydrolyzable DOP was quite variable among the locations and increased with depth especially below CML. The estimated values of in situ hydrolysis rate were much lower (2-34%) than the potential Vmax which was determined with the addition of an excess amount of the substrate. The results suggest that marine microbes can efficiently and rapidly utilize hydrolyzable DOP

Molecular basis of the dopaminergic system in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus.

PubMed

Watanabe, Takayuki; Sadamoto, Hisayo; Aonuma, Hitoshi

2013-12-01

In insects, dopamine modulates various aspects of behavior such as learning and memory, arousal and locomotion, and is also a precursor of melanin. To elucidate the molecular basis of the dopaminergic system in the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus DeGeer, we identified genes involved in dopamine biosynthesis, signal transduction, and dopamine re-uptake in the cricket. Complementary DNA of two isoforms of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), which convert tyrosine into L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine, was isolated from the cricket brain cDNA library. In addition, four dopamine receptor genes (Dop1, Dop2, Dop3, and DopEcR) and a high-affinity dopamine transporter gene were identified. The two TH isoforms contained isoform-specific regions in the regulatory ACT domain and showed differential expression patterns in different tissues. In addition, the dopamine receptor genes had a receptor subtype-specific distribution: the Dop1, Dop2, and DopEcR genes were broadly expressed in various tissues at differential expression levels, and the Dop3 gene was restrictedly expressed in neuronal tissues and the testicles. Our findings provide a fundamental basis for understanding the dopaminergic regulation of diverse physiological processes in the cricket.

Expression of the degree of polarization based on the geometrical optics pBRDF model.

PubMed

Wang, Kai; Zhu, Jingping; Liu, Hong; Du, Bingzheng

2017-02-01

An expression of the degree of polarization (DOP) based on the geometrical optics polarimetric bidirectional reflectance distribution function model is presented. In this expression, the DOP is related to the surface roughness and decreases at different reflection angles because diffuse reflection is taken into consideration. A shadowing/masking function introduced into the specular reflection expression makes the DOP values decrease as the angle of incidence or observation approaches grazing. Different kinds of materials were measured to validate the accuracy of this DOP expression. The measured results suggest that the errors of the DOP are reduced significantly, and the polarized reflection characteristics can be described more reasonably and accurately.

Video observation of procedural skills for assessment of trabeculectomy performed by residents.

PubMed

Hassanpour, Narges; Chen, Rebecca; Baikpour, Masoud; Moghimi, Sasan

2016-06-01

The efficacy and sufficiency of a healthcare system is directly related to the knowledge and skills of graduates working in the system. In this regard, many different assessment methods have been proposed to evaluate various skills of the learners. Video Observation of Procedural Skills (VOPS) is one newly-proposed method. In this study we aimed to compare the results of the VOPS method with the more commonly used Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS). In this prospective study conducted in 2012, all 10 ophthalmology residents of post graduate year 4 were selected for participation. Three months into training in the glaucoma ward, these residents performed trabeculectomy surgery on patients, and their procedural skills were assessed in real time by an expert via the DOPS method. All surgeries were also recorded and later evaluated via the VOPS method by an expert. Bland-Altman plot also was used to compare the two methods and calculating the mean and 95% limit of agreement. Residents have been done a mean of 14.9 ± 3.5 (range 10-20) independent trabeculectomy before the assessments. DOPS grade was positively associated with number of independent trabeculectomy during glaucoma rotation (β=0.227, p = 0.004). The intra-observer reproducibility of VOPS measurements was 0.847 (95% CI: 0.634, 0.961). The mean VOPS grade was significantly lower than the mean DOPS grade (8.4 vs. 8.9, p = 0.02). However, a good correlation was observed between the grades of VOPS and DOPS (r = 0.89, p = 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated that all data points fell within the 95% limits of agreement (-1.46, 0.46). The present study showed that VOPS might be considered a feasible, valid, and reliable assessment method for procedural skills of medical students and residents that can be used as an alternative to the DOPS method. However, VOPS might underestimate DOPS in evaluating surgical skills of residents.

Statistical Considerations of Food Allergy Prevention Studies.

PubMed

Bahnson, Henry T; du Toit, George; Lack, Gideon

Clinical studies to prevent the development of food allergy have recently helped reshape public policy recommendations on the early introduction of allergenic foods. These trials are also prompting new research, and it is therefore important to address the unique design and analysis challenges of prevention trials. We highlight statistical concepts and give recommendations that clinical researchers may wish to adopt when designing future study protocols and analysis plans for prevention studies. Topics include selecting a study sample, addressing internal and external validity, improving statistical power, choosing alpha and beta, analysis innovations to address dilution effects, and analysis methods to deal with poor compliance, dropout, and missing data. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Numerical Simulation of Ballistic Impact on Particulate Composite Target using Discrete Element Method: 1-D and 2-D Models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nair, Rajesh P.; Lakshmana Rao, C.

2014-01-01

Ballistic impact (BI) is a study that deals with a projectile hitting a target and observing its effects in terms of deformation and fragmentation of the target. The Discrete Element Method (DEM) is a powerful numerical technique used to model solid and particulate media. Here, an attempt is made to simulate the BI process using DEM. 1-D DEM for BI is developed and depth of penetration (DOP) is obtained. The DOP is compared with results obtained from 2-D DEM. DEM results are found to match empirical results. Effects of strain rate sensitivity of the material response on DOP are also simulated.

Decentralized operating procedures for orchestrating data and behavior across distributed military systems and assets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peach, Nicholas

2011-06-01

In this paper, we present a method for a highly decentralized yet structured and flexible approach to achieve systems interoperability by orchestrating data and behavior across distributed military systems and assets with security considerations addressed from the beginning. We describe an architecture of a tool-based design of business processes called Decentralized Operating Procedures (DOP) and the deployment of DOPs onto run time nodes, supporting the parallel execution of each DOP at multiple implementation nodes (fixed locations, vehicles, sensors and soldiers) throughout a battlefield to achieve flexible and reliable interoperability. The described method allows the architecture to; a) provide fine grain control of the collection and delivery of data between systems; b) allow the definition of a DOP at a strategic (or doctrine) level by defining required system behavior through process syntax at an abstract level, agnostic of implementation details; c) deploy a DOP into heterogeneous environments by the nomination of actual system interfaces and roles at a tactical level; d) rapidly deploy new DOPs in support of new tactics and systems; e) support multiple instances of a DOP in support of multiple missions; f) dynamically add or remove run-time nodes from a specific DOP instance as missions requirements change; g) model the passage of, and business reasons for the transmission of each data message to a specific DOP instance to support accreditation; h) run on low powered computers with lightweight tactical messaging. This approach is designed to extend the capabilities of existing standards, such as the Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA).

Characterization of an invertebrate-type dopamine receptor of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana.

PubMed

Troppmann, Britta; Balfanz, Sabine; Krach, Christian; Baumann, Arnd; Blenau, Wolfgang

2014-01-06

We have isolated a cDNA coding for a putative invertebrate-type dopamine receptor (Peadop2) from P. americana brain by using a PCR-based strategy. The mRNA is present in samples from brain and salivary glands. We analyzed the distribution of the PeaDOP2 receptor protein with specific affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies. On Western blots, PeaDOP2 was detected in protein samples from brain, subesophageal ganglion, thoracic ganglia, and salivary glands. In immunocytochemical experiments, we detected PeaDOP2 in neurons with their somata being located at the anterior edge of the medulla bilaterally innervating the optic lobes and projecting to the ventro-lateral protocerebrum. In order to determine the functional and pharmacological properties of the cloned receptor, we generated a cell line constitutively expressing PeaDOP2. Activation of PeaDOP2-expressing cells with dopamine induced an increase in intracellular cAMP. In contrast, a C-terminally truncated splice variant of this receptor did not exhibit any functional property by itself. The molecular and pharmacological characterization of the first dopamine receptor from P. americana provides the basis for forthcoming studies focusing on the significance of the dopaminergic system in cockroach behavior and physiology.

A ROIC for Mn(TPP)Cl-DOP-THF-Polyhema PVC membrane modified n-channel Si3N4 ISFET sensitive to histamine.

PubMed

Samah, N L M A; Lee, Khuan Y; Sulaiman, S A; Jarmin, R

2017-07-01

Intolerance of histamine could lead to scombroid poisoning with fatal consequences. Current detection methods for histamine are wet laboratory techniques which employ expensive equipment that depends on skills of seasoned technicians and produces delayed test analysis result. Previous works from our group has established that ISFETs can be adapted for detecting histamine with the use of a novel membrane. However, work to integrate ISFETs with a readout interfacing circuit (ROIC) circuit to display the histamine concentration has not been reported so far. This paper concerns the development of a ROIC specifically to integrate with a Mn(TPP)Cl-DOP-THF-Polyhema PVC membrane modified n-channel Si3N4 ISFET to display the histamine concentration. It embodies the design of constant voltage constant current (CVCC) circuit, amplification circuit and micro-controller based display circuit. A DC millivolt source is used to substitute the membrane modified ISFET as preliminary work. Input is histamine concentration corresponding to the safety level designated by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). Results show the CVCC circuit makes the output follows the input and keeps VDS constant. The amplification circuit amplifies the output from the CVCC circuit to the range 2.406-4.888V to integrate with the microcontroller, which is programmed to classify and display the histamine safety level and its corresponding voltage on a LCD panel. The ROIC could be used to produce direct output voltages corresponding to histamine concentrations, for in-situ applications.

Modeling and Simulation of Ceramic Arrays to Improve Ballaistic Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-09

targets with .30cal AP M2 projectile using SPH elements. -Model validation runs were conducted based on the DoP experiments described in reference...effect of material properties on DoP 15. SUBJECT TERMS .30cal AP M2 Projectile, 762x39 PS Projectile, SPH , Aluminum 5083, SiC, DoP Expeminets...and ceramic-faced aluminum targets with „30cal AP M2 projectile using SPH elements. □ Model validation runs were conducted based on the DoP

Quantifying Uncertainties in Navigation and Orbit Propagation Analyses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krieger, Andrew W.; Welch, Bryan W.

2017-01-01

A tool used to calculate dilution of precision (DOP) was created in order to assist the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN) program to analyze current and future user missions. The SCaN Center for Engineering, Networks, Integration, and Communication (SCENIC) is developing a new user interface (UI) to augment and replace the capabilities of currently used commercial software, such as Systems Tool Kit (STK). The DOP tool will be integrated in the SCENIC UI and will be used to analyze the accuracy of navigation solutions. This tool was developed using MATLAB and free and open-source tools to save cost and to use already existing orbital software libraries. GPS DOP data was collected and used for validation purposes. The similarities between the DOP tool results and GPS data show that the DOP tool is performing correctly. Additional improvements can be made in the DOP tool to improve its accuracy and performance in analyzing navigation solutions.

Saposin C Coupled Lipid Nanovesicles Specifically Target Arthritic Mouse Joints for Optical Imaging of Disease Severity

PubMed Central

Qi, Xiaoyang; Flick, Matthew J.; Frederick, Malinda; Chu, Zhengtao; Mason, Rachel; DeLay, Monica; Thornton, Sherry

2012-01-01

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting approximately 1% of the population and is characterized by cartilage and bone destruction ultimately leading to loss of joint function. Early detection and intervention of disease provides the best hope for successful treatment and preservation of joint mobility and function. Reliable and non-invasive techniques that accurately measure arthritic disease onset and progression are lacking. We recently developed a novel agent, SapC-DOPS, which is composed of the membrane-associated lysosomal protein saposin C (SapC) incorporated into 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (DOPS) lipid nanovesicles. SapC-DOPS has a high fusogenic affinity for phosphatidylserine-enriched microdomains on surfaces of target cell membranes. Incorporation of a far-red fluorophore, CellVue Maroon (CVM), into the nanovesicles allows for in vivo non-invasive visualization of the agent in targeted tissue. Given that phosphatidylserine is present only on the inner leaflet of healthy plasma membranes but is “flipped” to the outer leaflet upon cell damage, we hypothesized that SapC-DOPS would target tissue damage associated with inflammatory arthritis due to local surface-exposure of phosphatidylserine. Optical imaging with SapC-DOPS-CVM in two distinct models of arthritis, serum-transfer arthritis (e.g., K/BxN) and collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) revealed robust SapC-DOPS-CVM specific localization to arthritic paws and joints in live animals. Importantly, intensity of localized fluorescent signal correlated with macroscopic arthritic disease severity and increased with disease progression. Flow cytometry of cells extracted from arthritic joints demonstrated that SapC-DOPS-CVM localized to an average of 7–8% of total joint cells and primarily to CD11b+Gr-1+ cells. Results from the current studies strongly support the application of SapC-DOPS-CVM for advanced clinical and research applications including: detecting early

Norepinephrine precursor therapy in neurogenic orthostatic hypotension.

PubMed

Kaufmann, Horacio; Saadia, Daniela; Voustianiouk, Andrei; Goldstein, David S; Holmes, Courtney; Yahr, Melvin D; Nardin, Rachel; Freeman, Roy

2003-08-12

In patients with neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (NOH), the availability of the sympathetic neurotransmitter norepinephrine (NE) in the synaptic cleft is insufficient to maintain blood pressure while in the standing posture. We determined the effect of oral administration of the synthetic amino acid L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS), which is decarboxylated to NE by the enzyme L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (L-AADC) in neural and nonneural tissue, on blood pressure and orthostatic tolerance in 19 patients with severe NOH (8 with pure autonomic failure and 11 with multiple-system atrophy). A single-blind dose-titration study determined the most appropriate dose for each patient. Patients were then enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. L-DOPS significantly raised mean blood pressure both supine (from 101+/-4 to 141+/-5 mm Hg) and standing (from 60+/-4 to 100+/-6 mm Hg) for several hours and improved orthostatic tolerance in all patients. After L-DOPS, blood pressure increases were closely associated with increases in plasma NE levels. Oral administration of carbidopa, which inhibits L-AADC outside the blood-brain barrier, blunted both the increase in plasma NE and the pressor response to L-DOPS in all patients Acute administration of L-DOPS increases blood pressure and improves orthostatic tolerance in patients with NOH. The pressor effect results from conversion of L-DOPS to NE outside the central nervous system.

Assessment of first-year post-graduate residents: usefulness of multiple tools.

PubMed

Yang, Ying-Ying; Lee, Fa-Yauh; Hsu, Hui-Chi; Huang, Chin-Chou; Chen, Jaw-Wen; Cheng, Hao-Min; Lee, Wen-Shin; Chuang, Chiao-Lin; Chang, Ching-Chih; Huang, Chia-Chang

2011-12-01

Objective Structural Clinical Examination (OSCE) usually needs a large number of stations with long test time, which usually exceeds the resources available in a medical center. We aimed to determine the reliability of a combination of Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS), Internal Medicine in-Training Examination (IM-ITE(®)) and OSCE, and to verify the correlation between the small-scale OSCE+DOPS+IM-ITE(®)-composited scores and 360-degree evaluation scores of first year post-graduate (PGY(1)) residents. Between 2007 January to 2010 January, two hundred and nine internal medicine PGY1 residents completed DOPS, IM-ITE(®) and small-scale OSCE at our hospital. Faculty members completed 12-item 360-degree evaluation for each of the PGY(1) residents regularly. The small-scale OSCE scores correlated well with the 360-degree evaluation scores (r = 0.37, p < 0.021). Interestingly, the addition of DOPS scores to small-scale OSCE scores [small-scale OSCE+DOPS-composited scores] increased it's correlation with 360-degree evaluation scores of PGY(1) residents (r = 0.72, p < 0.036). Further, combination of IM-ITE(®) score with small-scale OSCE+DOPS scores [small-scale OSCE+DOPS+IM-ITE(®)-composited scores] markedly enhanced their correlation with 360-degree evaluation scores (r = 0.85, p < 0.016). The strong correlations between 360-degree evaluation and small-scale OSCE+DOPS+IM-ITE(®)-composited scores suggested that both methods were measuring the same quality. Our results showed that the small-scale OSCE, when associated with both the DOPS and IM-ITE(®), could be an important assessment method for PGY(1) residents. Copyright © 2011. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Prevention praised, cure preferred: results of between-subjects experimental studies comparing (monetary) appreciation for preventive and curative interventions

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’ is a common saying, and indeed, most health economic studies conclude that people are more willing to pay for preventive measures than for treatment activities. This may be because most health economic studies ask respondents to compare preventive measures with treatment, and thus prompt respondents to consider other uses of resources. However, psychological theorizing suggests that, when methods do not challenge subjects to consider other uses of resources, curative treatment is favored over prevention. Could it be that while prevention is praised, cure is preferred? Methods In two experimental studies, we investigated, from a psychological perspective and using a between-subjects design, whether prevention or treatment is preferred and why. In both studies, participants first read a lung cancer prevention or treatment intervention scenario that varied on the prevention-treatment dimension, but that were the same on factors like 'costs per saved life’ and kind of disease. Then participants completed a survey measuring appreciation (general and monetary) as well as a number of potential mediating variables. Results Both studies clearly demonstrated that, when the design was between-subjects, participants had greater (general and monetary) appreciation for treatment interventions than for preventive interventions with perceived urgency of the intervention quite consistently mediating this effect. Differences in appreciation of treatment over preventive treatment were shown to be .59 (Study 1) and .45 (Study 2) on a 5-point scale. Furthermore, participants thought that health insurance should compensate more for the treatment than for preventive measures, differences of 16% (Study 1), and 22% (Study 2). When participants were asked to directly compare both interventions on the basis of a short description, they preferred the preventive intervention. Conclusion It appears that people claim to prefer

Robust reflective ghost imaging against different partially polarized thermal light

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Hong-Guo; Wang, Yan; Zhang, Rui-Xue; Zhang, De-Jian; Liu, Hong-Chao; Li, Zong-Guo; Xiong, Jun

2018-03-01

We theoretically study the influence of degree of polarization (DOP) of thermal light on the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the reflective ghost imaging (RGI), which is a novel and indirect imaging modality. An expression for the CNR of RGI with partially polarized thermal light is carefully derived, which suggests a weak dependence of CNR on the DOP, especially when the ratio of the object size to the speckle size of thermal light has a large value. Different from conventional imaging approaches, our work reveals that RGI is much more robust against the DOP of the light source, which thereby has advantages in practical applications, such as remote sensing.

Structure Characterization and Immunomodulating Effects of Polysaccharides Isolated from Dendrobium officinale.

PubMed

Wei, Wei; Feng, Lei; Bao, Wan-Rong; Ma, Dik-Lung; Leung, Chung-Hang; Nie, Shao-Ping; Han, Quan-Bin

2016-02-03

A crude polysaccharide fraction (cDOP) has been determined to be the characteristic marker of Dendrobium officinale, an expensive tea material in Asia, but its chemistry and bioactivity have not been studied. In work reported here, cDOP was destarched (DOP, 90% yield) and separated into two subfraction polysaccharides, DOPa and DOPb, which were characterized by monosaccharide composition and methylation analyses and spectral analyses (FT-IR and (1)H and (13)C NMR). Both are composed of mannose and glucose at similar ratios and have a similar structure with a backbone of 1,4-linked β-D-mannopyranosyl and β-D-glucopyranosyl residues. Significant differences were observed only in their molecular weights. Bioassay using mouse macrophage cell line RAW264.7 indicated that DOP and its two subfractions enhance cell proliferation, TNF-α secretion, and phagocytosis in a dose-dependent manner. They also induced the proliferation of lymphocytes alone and with mitogens. DOPa and DOPb are thus proven to be major, active polysaccharide markers of D. officinale.

Vesicle Adhesion and Fusion Studied by Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering.

PubMed

Komorowski, Karlo; Salditt, Annalena; Xu, Yihui; Yavuz, Halenur; Brennich, Martha; Jahn, Reinhard; Salditt, Tim

2018-04-24

We have studied the adhesion state (also denoted by docking state) of lipid vesicles as induced by the divalent ions Ca 2+ or Mg 2+ at well-controlled ion concentration, lipid composition, and charge density. The bilayer structure and the interbilayer distance in the docking state were analyzed by small-angle x-ray scattering. A strong adhesion state was observed for DOPC:DOPS vesicles, indicating like-charge attraction resulting from ion correlations. The observed interbilayer separations of ∼1.6 nm agree quantitatively with the predictions of electrostatics in the strong coupling regime. Although this phenomenon was observed when mixing anionic and zwitterionic (or neutral) lipids, pure anionic membranes (DOPS) with highest charge density σ resulted in a direct phase transition to a multilamellar state, which must be accompanied by rupture and fusion of vesicles. To extend the structural assay toward protein-controlled docking and fusion, we have characterized reconstituted N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptors in controlled proteoliposome suspensions by small-angle x-ray scattering. Copyright © 2018 Biophysical Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The noradrenaline precursor L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine exhibits antinociceptive activity via central alpha-adrenoceptors in the mouse.

PubMed Central

Kawabata, A.; Kasamatsu, K.; Umeda, N.; Takagi, H.

1994-01-01

1. Systemic (s.c. or p.o.) administration of L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (droxidopa, L-threo-DOPS; L-DOPS), a noradrenaline precursor, at a dose-range of 100-800 mg kg-1, produced naloxone-resistant antinociception in a dose-dependent manner in the mouse, as assessed by the tail flick test, kaolin-induced writhing test and formalin-induced nociception test. 2. Antinociception elicited by L-DOPS (400 mg kg-1, s.c.) was not affected by s.c. injection of benserazide, a peripherally preferential L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitor, but was suppressed by its intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection. 3. I.c.v. or intrathecal (i.t.) administration of the non-selective alpha-blocker, phentolamine, significantly reduced L-DOPS-induced antinociception. 4. I.c.v. administration of the alpha 1-blocker, prazosin, but not the alpha 2-blocker, yohimbine, abolished the antinociceptive effects of L-DOPS. In contrast, both blockers, when administered i.t., exhibited significant inhibitory effects. 5. These results suggest that systemic L-DOPS produces opioid-independent antinociception, mediated by supraspinal alpha 1-adrenoceptors and by spinal alpha 1- and alpha 2-adrenoceptors and may predict additional therapeutic applications of L-DOPS as an analgesic. PMID:7911717

Dissolved Phosphorus Pools and Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in the Euphotic Zone of the Western North Pacific Ocean

PubMed Central

Suzumura, Masahiro; Hashihama, Fuminori; Yamada, Namiha; Kinouchi, Shinko

2012-01-01

We measured pools of dissolved phosphorus (P), including dissolved inorganic P (DIP), dissolved organic P (DOP) and alkaline phosphatase (AP)-hydrolyzable labile DOP (L-DOP), and kinetic parameters of AP activity (APA) in the euphotic zone in the western North Pacific Ocean. Samples were collected from one coastal station in Sagami Bay, Japan, and three offshore stations between the North Pacific subtropical gyre (NPSG) and the Kuroshio region. Although DIP concentrations in the euphotic zone at all stations were equally low, around the nominal method detection limit of 20 nmol L-1, chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentrations were one order of magnitude greater at the coastal station. DOP was the dominant P pool, comprising 62–92% of total dissolved P at and above the Chl a maximum layer (CML). L-DOP represented 22–39% of the total DOP at the offshore stations, whereas it accounted for a much higher proportion (about 85%) in the coastal surface layers. Significant correlations between maximum potential AP hydrolysis rates and DIP concentrations or bacterial cell abundance in the offshore euphotic zone suggest that major APA in the oligotrophic surface ocean is from bacterial activity and regulated largely by DIP availability. Although the range of maximum potential APA was comparable among the environmental conditions, the in situ hydrolysis rate of L-DOP in the coastal station was 10 times those in the offshore stations. L-DOP turnover time at the CML ranged from 4.5 days at the coastal station to 84.4 days in the NPSG. The ratio of the APA half-saturation constant to the ambient L-DOP concentration decreased markedly from the NPSG to the coastal station. There were substantial differences in the rate and efficiency of DOP remineralization and its contribution as the potential P source between the low-phosphate/high-biomass coastal ecosystem and the low-phosphate/low biomass oligotrophic ocean. PMID:22457661

Energy and protein requirements for maintenance of dairy goats during pregnancy and their efficiencies of use.

PubMed

Härter, C J; Lima, L D; Silva, H G O; Castagnino, D S; Rivera, A R; Resende, K T; Teixeira, I A M A

2017-09-01

It has been suggested that maintenance requirements are similar among animals of different physiological stages; however, important physiological changes occur in the maternal body during pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the energy and protein requirements for the maintenance of pregnant dairy goats and to estimate their efficiency of energy and protein utilization for maintenance and pregnancy. We used 66 multiparous pregnant goats having 49.0 ± 1.59 kg initial BW (around the third or fourth parturition) arranged in a randomized block design with a 3 × 3 factorial scheme including slaughter at different days of pregnancy (DOP; 80, 110, and 140 d) and feed restriction (0, 20, and 40% feed restriction). The comparative slaughter technique was used to estimate energy and protein maintenance requirements. Goats slaughtered at 140 DOP were subjected to digestibility trials at around 80, 110, and 140 DOP to estimate diet metabolizability and N balance (NBAL). Metabolizability decreased with feed restriction and was 63.3 ± 2.16, 55.7 ± 2.35, and 58.2 ± 2.30% at 0, 20, and 40% of feed restriction, respectively ( < 0.01). There was no effect of DOP on NE or the requirements of ME for maintenance (ME), which were 197 and 315 kJ/kg empty body weight (EBW), respectively, and the efficiency of ME utilization for maintenance (k) was 0.63. Similarly, DOP did not affect thedaily net protein requirements for maintenance (NP) estimated using the comparative slaughter technique (1.38 ± 0.512 g/kg EBW; = 0.003) or the NP estimated using NBAL (2.49 ± 0.594 g/kg EBW; < 0.01). The MP requirement for maintenance (MP) estimated using the comparative slaughter technique was not affected by DOP and was 3.22 g MP/kg EBW ( < 0.01). The efficiency of MP utilization for maintenance (k) was 0.43. The efficiency of ME utilization for pregnancy (k) increased with the progress of pregnancy and was 0.058, 0.10, and 0.19 at 80, 110, and 140 DOP, respectively

Enthalpies of solvation for dopamine hydrochloride in water-ethanol solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vandyshev, V. N.; Ledenkov, S. F.; Molchanov, A. S.

2012-10-01

The enthalpies of dissolution of dopamine hydrochloride (H2Dop · HCl) in water-ethanol solvents containing from 0 to 0.8 mole fraction of ethanol are measured by calorimetry at 298.15 K. Standard enthalpies of transfer (Δtr H ∘) for the molecular (H2Dop) and cationic (H3Dop+) forms of dopamine from water into binary solvents are calculated from the obtained data. The enthalpies of transfer of H3Dop+ cation are determined from the enthalpies of dissolution of H2Dop · HCl using the familiar method of separating the molar quantities into ionic contributions (Ph4P+ = BPh{4/-}), and by an original alternative procedure. The effect of the composition of the binary solvent on the solvation of dopamine is considered.

Stokes-Mueller matrix polarimetry technique for circular dichroism/birefringence sensing with scattering effects.

PubMed

Phan, Quoc-Hung; Lo, Yu-Lung

2017-04-01

A surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-enhanced method is proposed for measuring the circular dichroism (CD), circular birefringence (CB), and degree of polarization (DOP) of turbid media using a Stokes–Mueller matrix polarimetry technique. The validity of the analytical model is confirmed by means of numerical simulations. The simulation results show that the proposed detection method enables the CD and CB properties to be measured with a resolution of 10 ? 4 refractive index unit (RIU) and 10 ? 5 ?? RIU , respectively, for refractive indices in the range of 1.3 to 1.4. The practical feasibility of the proposed method is demonstrated by detecting the CB/CD/DOP properties of glucose–chlorophyllin compound samples containing polystyrene microspheres. It is shown that the extracted CB value decreases linearly with the glucose concentration, while the extracted CD value increases linearly with the chlorophyllin concentration. However, the DOP is insensitive to both the glucose concentration and the chlorophyllin concentration. Consequently, the potential of the proposed SPR-enhanced Stokes–Mueller matrix polarimetry method for high-resolution CB/CD/DOP detection is confirmed. Notably, in contrast to conventional SPR techniques designed to detect relative refractive index changes, the SPR technique proposed in the present study allows absolute measurements of the optical properties (CB/CD/DOP) to be obtained.

Molecular weight distribution of phosphorus fraction of aquatic dissolved organic matter.

PubMed

Ged, Evan C; Boyer, Treavor H

2013-05-01

This study characterized dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) that is discharged from the Everglades Agricultural Area as part of the larger pool of aquatic dissolved organic matter (DOM). Whole water samples collected at the Everglades stormwater treat area 1 West (STA-1 W) were fractionated using a batch ultrafiltration method to separate organic compounds based on apparent molecular weight (AMW). Each AMW fraction of DOM was characterized for phosphorus, carbon, nitrogen, UV absorbance, and fluorescence. The DOP content of the Everglades water matrix was characteristically variable constituting 4-56% of total phosphorus (TP) and demonstrated no correlation with dissolved organic carbon (DOC). Measured values for DOP exceeded 14μgL(-1) in four out of five sampling dates making phosphorus load reductions problematic for the stormwater treatment areas (STAs), which target inorganic phosphorus and have a goal of 10μgL(-1) as TP. The molecular weight distributions revealed 40% of DOP is high molecular weight, aromatic-rich DOM. The results of this research are expected to be of interest to environmental chemists, environmental engineers, and water resources managers because DOP presents a major obstacle to achieving TP levels <10μgL(-1). Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Characterization of an Invertebrate-Type Dopamine Receptor of the American Cockroach, Periplaneta americana

PubMed Central

Troppmann, Britta; Balfanz, Sabine; Krach, Christian; Baumann, Arnd; Blenau, Wolfgang

2014-01-01

We have isolated a cDNA coding for a putative invertebrate-type dopamine receptor (Peadop2) from P. americana brain by using a PCR-based strategy. The mRNA is present in samples from brain and salivary glands. We analyzed the distribution of the PeaDOP2 receptor protein with specific affinity-purified polyclonal antibodies. On Western blots, PeaDOP2 was detected in protein samples from brain, subesophageal ganglion, thoracic ganglia, and salivary glands. In immunocytochemical experiments, we detected PeaDOP2 in neurons with their somata being located at the anterior edge of the medulla bilaterally innervating the optic lobes and projecting to the ventro-lateral protocerebrum. In order to determine the functional and pharmacological properties of the cloned receptor, we generated a cell line constitutively expressing PeaDOP2. Activation of PeaDOP2-expressing cells with dopamine induced an increase in intracellular cAMP. In contrast, a C-terminally truncated splice variant of this receptor did not exhibit any functional property by itself. The molecular and pharmacological characterization of the first dopamine receptor from P. americana provides the basis for forthcoming studies focusing on the significance of the dopaminergic system in cockroach behavior and physiology. PMID:24398985

Magnetic iron species highly dispersed over silica: use as catalysts for removal of pollutants in water.

PubMed

Freitas, Victor A A; Maia, Laura A; Belardinelli, Rolando E; Ardisson, Jose D; Pereira, Márcio C; Oliveira, Luiz C A

2017-03-01

Fe 2 O 3 -SiO 2 composites were prepared by impregnation (sample FeIMP) or doping (sample FeDOP) in the structure of porous silica. The dye removal capacity of the materials was investigated through adsorption and oxidation studies of methylene blue and rhodamine B. N 2 adsorption/desorption measurements on FeIMP and FeDOP resulted in specific areas of 27 and 235 m 2  g -1 , respectively. Mössbauer spectroscopy and XRD data detected hematite and maghemite as the iron phases in the samples FeIMP and FeDOP, respectively. Adsorption isotherms and kinetic studies of the dyes were better fitted in DKR model for FeDOP, where the process follows a pseudo-second order with the interparticle diffusion step being the rate-limiting step. On the other hand, FeIMP has better fit in the Langmuir model. Photocatalytic activity was observed in FeDOP under UV irradiation by the presence of reaction-hydroxylated intermediates for MB (m/z = 301) and RhB (m/z = 459). However, the photocatalytic activity was strongly influenced by the adsorption affinity between dye/catalyst. Photogenerated holes are the species responsible for the dye degradation when the adsorption is too strong, while hydroxyl radical action will be favored when the adsorption is not vigorous as detected by ESI-MS. Graphical Abstract Action of photogenerated holes and free electrons into the photocatalytically mechanism of methylene blue degradation over a semiconductor.

Think Tank: Identifying and Creating the Next Generation of Community-Based Cancer Prevention Studies | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

In late 2015, the NCI Division of Cancer Prevention convened cancer prevention research experts and stakeholders to discuss the current state of cancer prevention research, identify key prevention research priorities for the NCI, and identify studies that could be conducted within the NCI Community Oncology Research Program. Read the Cancer Prevention Research journal article

Multiplier method may be unreliable to predict the timing of temporary hemiepiphysiodesis for coronal angular deformity.

PubMed

Wu, Zhenkai; Ding, Jing; Zhao, Dahang; Zhao, Li; Li, Hai; Liu, Jianlin

2017-07-10

The multiplier method was introduced by Paley to calculate the timing for temporary hemiepiphysiodesis. However, this method has not been verified in terms of clinical outcome measure. We aimed to (1) predict the rate of angular correction per year (ACPY) at the various corresponding ages by means of multiplier method and verify the reliability based on the data from the published studies and (2) screen out risk factors for deviation of prediction. A comprehensive search was performed in the following electronic databases: Cochrane, PubMed, and EMBASE™. A total of 22 studies met the inclusion criteria. If the actual value of ACPY from the collected date was located out of the range of the predicted value based on the multiplier method, it was considered as the deviation of prediction (DOP). The associations of patient characteristics with DOP were assessed with the use of univariate logistic regression. Only one article was evaluated as moderate evidence; the remaining articles were evaluated as poor quality. The rate of DOP was 31.82%. In the detailed individual data of included studies, the rate of DOP was 55.44%. The multiplier method is not reliable in predicting the timing for temporary hemiepiphysiodesis, even though it is prone to be more reliable for the younger patients with idiopathic genu coronal deformity.

Domestication of Lambda Phage Genes into a Putative Third Type of Replicative Helicase Matchmaker

PubMed Central

Brézellec, Pierre; Petit, Marie-Agnès; Pasek, Sophie; Vallet-Gely, Isabelle; Possoz, Christophe

2017-01-01

Abstract At the onset of the initiation of chromosome replication, bacterial replicative helicases are recruited and loaded on the DnaA-oriC nucleoprotein platform, assisted by proteins like DnaC/DnaI or DciA. Two orders of bacteria appear, however, to lack either of these factors, raising the question of the essentiality of these factors in bacteria. Through a phylogenomic approach, we identified a pair of genes that could have substituted for dciA. The two domesticated genes are specific of the dnaC/dnaI- and dciA-lacking organisms and apparently domesticated from lambdoid phage genes. They derive from λO and λP and were renamed dopC and dopE, respectively. DopE is expected to bring the replicative helicase to the bacterial origin of replication, while DopC might assist DopE in this function. The confirmation of the implication of DopCE in the handling of the replicative helicase at the onset of replication in these organisms would generalize to all bacteria and therefore to all living organisms the need for specific factors dedicated to this function. PMID:28854626

The availability of dissolved organic phosphorus compounds to marine phytoplankton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hua-Sheng, Hong; Hai-Li, Wang; Bang-Qin, Huang

1995-06-01

The availability of three dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) compounds as nutrient sources for experimental culture of three algae was studied. Results indicated that these compounds could be utilized by algae, and that dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) was first to be uptaken when various forms of phosphorus (DIP and DOP) co-existed. Dicrateria zhanjiangensis' uptake of sodium glycerophosphate was faster than that of D-ribose-5-phosphate. The increase of sodium glycerophosphate had little effect on the maximum uptake rate( V max) of Chlorella sp., but increased the semisaturation constant( K s) remarkably; the photosynthesis rates(PR) of Dicrateria zhanjiangensis and Chlorella sp. were rarely affected by using various forms of phosphorus in the culture experiments. The possible DOP pathways utilized by algae are discussed.

POLLUTION PREVENTION CAST STUDIES COMPENDIUM - 2ND EDITION

EPA Science Inventory

This compendium summarizes a compilation of case studies in the area of pollution prevention. he compendium is divided into 3 sections, featuring 3 of the Pollution Prevention Branch's key programs. An overview of each program is provided at the beginning of each section of the c...

Soy undecapeptide induces Drosophila hind leg grooming via dopamine receptor.

PubMed

Karim, M Rezaul; Yanagawa, Aya; Ohinata, Kousaku

2018-05-15

β-Conglycinin α subunit (323-333) [βCGα(323-333)] is an exogenous neuromodulating undecapeptide found from enzymatic digest of β-conglycinin, a soy major storage protein by mice behavior tests. We investigated effect of βCGα(323-333) on Drosophila behavior. Oral administration of βCGα(323-333) in Drosophila increased hind leg grooming, which may act through specific sets of neurons. It was reported that dopamine receptor (DopR) meditates hind leg grooming, and we tested involvement of DopR in βCGα(323-333)-induced hind leg grooming by using DopR knockout flies. In the wild type but not in the DopR-knockout flies, βCGα(323-333) increased hind leg grooming. These results suggest that βCGα(323-333) induces hind leg grooming via activating the DopR. This is the first report showing that exogenously administered peptide changes fly behaviors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dropout Prevention: A Study of Prevention Programs Used by High Schools to Increase Graduation Rate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simmons, Christopher L.

2013-01-01

This mixed methods study focused on the relationship between dropout prevention programs and graduation rates in one school district in Florida during the 2010-2011 school year. The dropout prevention program data analyzed included high school principals' perceptions in regard to perceived effectiveness, fidelity of implementation, cost efficacy,…

The primary prevention of asthma in children study: design of a multifaceted prevention program.

PubMed

Kuiper, Sandra; Maas, Tanja; van Schayck, Constant P; Muris, Jean W M; Schönberger, Huub J A M; Dompeling, Edward; Gijsbers, Barbara; van Weel, Chris; Knottnerus, J André

2005-06-01

The PREVASC study addresses the primary prevention of asthma in infants and small children. The objective of this study is to investigate whether a multifaceted prenatally started intervention strategy in high-risk infants leads to a decrease in the occurrence of (severe) asthma and whether a refinement of the prevention strategy leads to an increase in the adherence to the prevention program. The primary prevention program includes house dust mite impermeable bed coverings, education on breast feeding, hypoallergenic feeding, timing of introduction of solid food and smoking cessation. A total of 888 infants were prenatally included. By the time of inclusion the mothers were 3-7 months pregnant. About 27 infants were excluded from the study and 18 dropped out. Of the remaining 843 infants 535 had a first-degree familial predisposition of asthma (high-risk group), whereas a reference group of 308 (162 boys) infants was not predisposed for asthma in the first-degree (low-risk group). To evaluate the (cost-)effectiveness of the preventive intervention, 222 (118 boys) infants of the high-risk group allocated to the intervention group and 221 (112 boys) allocated to a control group are followed up. The low-risk infants served as controls to evaluate the predictive value of high risk (first-degree familial predisposition of asthma). The infants are followed from the prenatal stage until they reach the age of 6 yr. The remaining 92 high-risk infants were included in an optimized randomized-clinical adherence trial (RCAT). Of these 92 infants, 45 (20 boys) were allocated to an intervention group and 47 (24 boys) to a control group. Until now all infants have been followed for at least 1 yr.

[Study on the metabolism of droxidopa in humans].

PubMed

Maruyama, W; Naoi, M; Narabayashi, H

1994-10-01

Supplement of the deficient neurotransmitters is one of the most effective therapies for neurodegenerative disorders. For the treatment of Parkinson's disease, L-DOPA therapy has been applied to replace dopamine, and droxidopa (L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine) therapy to supply noradrenaline (NA). Droxidopa, an artificial amino acid, is decarboxylated by aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC) into NA. By application for Parkinson's disease, it alleviated neurological symptoms such as freezing phenomenon, which are refractory to L-DOPA. However, as a precursor of a monoamine, droxidopa was found to be not so effective as L-DOPA; and the clinical efficiency of droxidopa is variable among patients. The metabolic pathway of droxidopa in the brain was examined using human materials. The intraventricular fluid of patients treated with droxidopa, and of control was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography with multi-eletrochemical detection (Neurochem). In the intraventricular fluid of the patients treated, free NA concentration increased to be 5.67 +/- 3.40 nM from non-detectable level in the control patients. The patients with higher free NA levels clinically responded better to droxidopa. However, free NA levels varied among patients; and the mechanism of the individual variance should be clarified. In the intraventricular fluid, in addition to NA, a large amount of a metabolite of droxidopa by catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT), 3-O-methoxy-droxidopa (3OMD), was detected, followed by the metabolites by DOPS-aldolase (DOPS-ALD), protocatechualdehyde and protocatechuic acid. It indicates that considerable parts of administered droxidopa are catabolized by COMT and DOPS-ALD, but not by AADC.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Dilution of Precision as a Geometry Metric for Swarm Relative Localization

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-11-01

algorithm 2.2 Intuitive DOP Illustration Before proceeding with a quantitative definition of DOP, an intuitive example will be given to illustrate the...in Fig. 11 4.2.2 Constant DOP Example Compare the results of the previous simulation to those shown in Figs. 13 and 14. Instead of only scaling...ARL-TR-8200 ● NOV 2017 US Army Research Laboratory Dilution of Precision as a Geometry Metric for Swarm Relative Localization

Characterization of [3H] oxymorphone binding sites in mouse brain: Quantitative autoradiography in opioid receptor knockout mice.

PubMed

Yoo, Ji Hoon; Borsodi, Anna; Tóth, Géza; Benyhe, Sándor; Gaspar, Robert; Matifas, Audrey; Kieffer, Brigitte L; Metaxas, Athanasios; Kitchen, Ian; Bailey, Alexis

2017-03-16

Oxymorphone, one of oxycodone's metabolic products, is a potent opioid receptor agonist which is thought to contribute to the analgesic effect of its parent compound and may have high potential abuse liability. Nonetheless, the in vivo pharmacological binding profile of this drug is still unclear. This study uses mice lacking mu (MOP), kappa (KOP) or delta (DOP) opioid receptors as well as mice lacking all three opioid receptors to provide full characterisation of oxymorphone binding sites in the brain. Saturation binding studies using [ 3 H]oxymorphone revealed high affinity binding sites in mouse brain displaying Kd of 1.7nM and Bmax of 147fmol/mg. Furthermore, we performed quantitative autoradiography binding studies using [ 3 H]oxymorphone in mouse brain. The distribution of [ 3 H]oxymorphone binding sites was found to be similar to the selective MOP agonist [ 3 H]DAMGO in the mouse brain. [ 3 H]Oxymorphone binding was completely abolished across the majority of the brain regions in mice lacking MOP as well as in mice lacking all three opioid receptors. DOP and KOP knockout mice retained [ 3 H]oxymorphone binding sites suggesting oxymorphone may not target DOP or KOP. These results confirm that the MOP, and not the DOP or the KOP is the main high affinity binding target for oxymorphone. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Phylotype Dynamics of Bacterial P Utilization Genes in Microbialites and Bacterioplankton of a Monomictic Endorheic Lake.

PubMed

Valdespino-Castillo, Patricia M; Alcántara-Hernández, Rocío J; Merino-Ibarra, Martín; Alcocer, Javier; Macek, Miroslav; Moreno-Guillén, Octavio A; Falcón, Luisa I

2017-02-01

Microbes can modulate ecosystem function since they harbor a vast genetic potential for biogeochemical cycling. The spatial and temporal dynamics of this genetic diversity should be acknowledged to establish a link between ecosystem function and community structure. In this study, we analyzed the genetic diversity of bacterial phosphorus utilization genes in two microbial assemblages, microbialites and bacterioplankton of Lake Alchichica, a semiclosed (i.e., endorheic) system with marked seasonality that varies in nutrient conditions, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and water column stability. We focused on dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) utilization gene dynamics during contrasting mixing and stratification periods. Bacterial alkaline phosphatases (phoX and phoD) and alkaline beta-propeller phytases (bpp) were surveyed. DOP utilization genes showed different dynamics evidenced by a marked change within an intra-annual period and a differential circadian pattern of expression. Although Lake Alchichica is a semiclosed system, this dynamic turnover of phylotypes (from lake circulation to stratification) points to a different potential of DOP utilization by the microbial communities within periods. DOP utilization gene dynamics was different among genetic markers and among assemblages (microbialite vs. bacterioplankton). As estimated by the system's P mass balance, P inputs and outputs were similar in magnitude (difference was <10 %). A theoretical estimation of water column P monoesters was used to calculate the potential P fraction that can be remineralized on an annual basis. Overall, bacterial groups including Proteobacteria (Alpha and Gamma) and Bacteroidetes seem to be key participants in DOP utilization responses.

Ca(2+)-mediated anionic lipid-plasmid DNA lipoplexes. Electrochemical, structural, and biochemical studies.

PubMed

Barrán-Berdón, Ana L; Yélamos, Belén; Malfois, Marc; Aicart, Emilio; Junquera, Elena

2014-10-07

Several experimental methods, such as zeta potential, gel electrophoresis, small-angle X-ray scattering, gene transfection, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and cell viability/cytotoxicity assays, have been used to analyze the potential of anionic lipids (AL) as effective nontoxic and nonviral DNA vectors, assisted by divalent cations. The lipoplexes studied are those comprised of the green fluorescent protein-encoding plasmid DNA pEGFP-C3, an anionic lipid as 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-(1'-rac-glycerol) (DOPG) or 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-L-serine (DOPS), and a zwitterionic lipid, the 1,2-dioleoyl-sn -glycero-3-phosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE, not charged at physiological pH). The studies have been carried on at different liposome and lipoplex compositions and in the presence of a variety of [Ca2+]. Electrochemical experiments reveal that DOPG/DOPE and DOPS/DOPE anionic liposomes may compact more effectively pDNA at low molar fractions (with an excess of DOPE) and at AL/pDNA ratios ≈20. Calcium concentrations around 15-20 mM are needed to yield lipoplexes neutral or slightly positive. From a structural standpoint, DOPG/DOPE-Ca2+-pDNA lipoplexes are self-assembled into a HIIc phase (inverted cylindrical micelles in hexagonal ordering with plasmid supercoils inside the cylinders), while DOPS/DOPE-Ca2+-pDNA lipoplexes show two phases in coexistence: one classical HIIc phase which contains pDNA supercoils and one Lα phase without pDNA among the lamellae, i.e., a lamellar stack of lipidic bilayers held together by Ca2+ bridges. Transfection and cell viability studies were done with HEK293T and HeLa cells in the presence of serum. Lipoplexes herein studied show moderate-to-low transfection levels combined with moderate-to-high cell viability, comparable to those yield by Lipofectamine2000*, which is a cationic lipid (CL) standard formulation, but none of them improve the output of typical CL gen vectors, mostly if they are gemini or dendritic

How phosphorus limitation can control climate-active gas sources and sinks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gypens, Nathalie; Borges, Alberto V.; Ghyoot, Caroline

2017-06-01

Since the 1950's, anthropogenic activities have increased nutrient river loads to European coastal areas. Subsequent implementation of nutrient reduction policies have led to considerably reduction of phosphorus (P) loads from the mid-1980's, while nitrogen (N) loads were maintained, inducing a P limitation of phytoplankton growth in many eutrophied coastal areas such as the Southern Bight of the North Sea (SBNS). When dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) is limiting, most phytoplankton organisms are able to indirectly acquire P from dissolved organic P (DOP). We investigate the impact of DOP use on phytoplankton production and atmospheric fluxes of CO2 and dimethylsulfide (DMS) in the SBNS from 1951 to 2007 using an extended version of the R-MIRO-BIOGAS model. This model includes a description of the ability of phytoplankton organisms to use DOP as a source of P. Results show that primary production can increase up to 30% due to DOP uptake under limiting DIP conditions. Consequently, simulated DMS emissions also increase proportionally while CO2 emissions to the atmosphere decrease, relative to the reference simulation without DOP uptake.

How phosphorus limitation can control climatic gas sources and sinks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gypens, Nathalie; Borges, Alberto V.; Ghyoot, Caroline

2017-04-01

Since the 1950's, anthropogenic activities severely increased river nutrient loads in European coastal areas. Subsequent implementation of nutrient reduction policies have considerably reduced phosphorus (P) loads from mid-1980's, while nitrogen (N) loads were maintained, inducing a P limitation of phytoplankton growth in many eutrophied coastal areas such as the Southern Bight of the North Sea (SBNS). When dissolved inorganic phosphorous (DIP) is limiting, most phytoplankton organisms are able to indirectly acquire P from dissolved organic P (DOP). We investigate the impact of DOP use on the importance of phytoplankton production and atmospheric fluxes of CO2 and dimethylsulfide (DMS) in the SBNS from 1951 to 2007 using an extended version of the R-MIRO-BIOGAS model. This model includes a description of the ability of phytoplankton organisms to use DOP as a source of P. Results show that primary production can increase up to 70% due to DOP uptake in limiting DIP conditions. Consequently, simulated DMS emissions double while CO2 emissions to the atmosphere decrease, relative to the reference simulation without DOP uptake. At the end of the simulated period (late 2000's), the net direction of air-sea CO2 annual flux, changed from a source to a sink for atmospheric CO2 in response to use of DOP and increase of primary production.

The West of Scotland coronary prevention study: economic benefit analysis of primary prevention with pravastatin.

PubMed Central

Caro, J.; Klittich, W.; McGuire, A.; Ford, I.; Norrie, J.; Pettitt, D.; McMurray, J.; Shepherd, J.

1997-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the economic efficiency of using pravastatin to prevent the transition from health to cardiovascular disease in men with hypercholesterolaemia. DESIGN: Economic benefit analysis based on data from the West of Scotland coronary prevention study. Treatment specific hazards of developing cardiovascular disease according to various definitions were estimated. Scottish record linkage data provided disease specific survival. Cost estimates were based on extracontractual tariffs and event specific average lengths of stay calculated from the West of Scotland coronary prevention study. SUBJECTS: Men with hypercholesterolaemia similar to the subjects in the West of Scotland coronary prevention study. MAIN OUTCOME: Cost consequences, the number of transitions from health to cardiovascular disease prevented, the number needed to start treatment, and cost per life year gained. RESULTS: If 10,000 of these men started taking pravastatin, 318 of them would not make the transition from health to cardiovascular disease (number needed to treat, 31.4), at a net discounted cost of 20m Pounds over 5 years. These benefits imply an undiscounted gain of 2,460 years of life, and thus 8121 Pounds per life year gained, or 20,375 Pounds per life year gained if benefits are discounted. Restriction to the 40% of men at highest risk reduces the number needed to treat to 22.5 (5601 Pounds per life year gained (undiscounted) and 13,995 Pounds per life year gained (discounted)). CONCLUSIONS: In subjects without evidence of prior myocardial infarction but who have hypercholesterolaemia, the use of pravastatin yields substantial health benefits at a cost that is not prohibitive overall and can be quite efficient in selected high risk subgroups. PMID:9437275

Preventable deaths following emergency medical dispatch--an audit study.

PubMed

Andersen, Mikkel S; Johnsen, Søren Paaske; Hansen, Andreas Ernst; Skjaerseth, Eivinn; Hansen, Christian Muff; Sørensen, Jan Nørtved; Jepsen, Søren Bruun; Hansen, Jesper Bjerring; Christensen, Erika Frischknecht

2014-12-19

Call taker triage of calls to the 112 emergency number, can be error prone because rapid decisions must be made based on limited information. Here we investigated the preventability and common characteristics of same-day deaths among patients who called 112 and were not assigned an ambulance with lights and sirens by the Emergency Medical Communication Centre (EMCC). An audit was performed by an external panel of experienced prehospital consultant anaesthesiologists. The panel focused exclusively on the role of the EMCC, assessing whether same-day deaths among 112 callers could have been prevented if the EMCC had assessed the situations as highly urgent. The panels' assessments were based on review of patient charts and voice-log recordings of 112 calls. All patient related material was reviewed by the audit panel and all cases where then scored as preventable, potentially preventable or non-preventable during a two day meeting. The study setting was three of five regions in Denmark with a combined population of 4,182,613 inhabitants, which equals 75% of the Danish population. The study period was 18 months, from mid-2011 to the end of 2012. Linkage of prospectively collected EMCC data with population-based registries resulted in the identification of 94,488 non-high-acuity 112 callers. Among these callers, 152 (0.16% of all) died on the same day as the corresponding 112 call, and were included in this study. The mean age of included patients was 74.4 years (range, 31-100 years) and 45.4% were female. The audit panel found no definitively preventable deaths; however, 18 (11.8%) of the analysed same-day deaths (0.02% of all non-high-acuity callers) were found to be potentially preventable. In 13 of these 18 cases, the dispatch protocol was either not used or not used correctly. Same-day death rarely occurred among 112 callers whose situations were assessed as not highly urgent. No same-day deaths were found to be definitively preventable by a different EMCC call

Modeling and Simulation of Ceramic Arrays to Improve Ballaistic Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-10-01

are modeled using SPH elements. Model validation runs with monolithic SiC tiles are conducted based on the DoP experiments described in reference...TERMS ,30cal AP M2 Projectile, 762x39 PS Projectile, SPH , Aluminum 5083, SiC, DoP Expeminets, AutoDyn Simulations, Tile Gap 16. SECURITY...range 700 m/s to 1000 m/s are modeled using SPH elements. □ Model validation runs with monolithic SiC tiles are conducted based on the DoP

Obesity Prevention Opinions of School Stakeholders: A Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Della Torre, Sophie Bucher; Akre, Christina; Suris, Joan-Carles

2010-01-01

Background: In general, schools are an important setting to implement current recommendations for obesity prevention in children because the vast majority of children attend school. This study investigated the opinions of different school stakeholders on the feasibility and acceptability of current obesity prevention strategies that could be…

Preventing weight gain in adults: the pound of prevention study.

PubMed Central

Jeffery, R W; French, S A

1999-01-01

OBJECTIVES: This study examined whether weight gain with age could be prevented through the use of a low-intensity intervention. METHODS: Participants, 228 men and 998 women recruited from diverse sources, were randomized to one of the following groups: (1) no-contact control, (2) education through monthly newsletters, or (3) education plus incentives for participation. All participants were weighed and completed questionnaires about behaviors and attitudes related to weight at baseline and annually for 3 years thereafter. RESULTS: Individuals in intervention groups reported favorable changes over time in frequency of weighting and healthy dieting practices relative to those in the control group. These behavior changes were in turn related to a reduced rate of weight gain over time. However, weight gain over 3 years did not differ significantly by treatment group. CONCLUSIONS: This low-intensity educational approach to weight gain prevention sustained interest over a lengthy time period and was associated positively with behavior change, but it was not strong enough to significantly reduce weight gain with age. PMID:10224988

The actions of dihydroxyphenylalanine and dihydroxyphenylserine on the sleep-wakefulness cycle of the rat after peripheral decarboxylase inhibition.

PubMed Central

Altier, H; Moldes, M; Monti, J M

1975-01-01

1. The actions of dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) and dihydroxyphenylserine (DOPS) were assessed on the sleep-wakefulness cycle of male Wistar rats. 2. In comparative studies the extracerebral decarboxylase was inhibited with serinetrihydroxybenzylhydrazide (RO 4-4602) before injection of DOPA or DOPS. 3. DOPA (80-160 mg/kg, i.p.) with or without previous inhibition of the peripheral decarboxylase gave rise to an initial significant increase of slow wave activity, which may be related to a release of 5-hydroxytryptamine. 4. During the subsequent 8 h sessions, DOPA significantly decreased slow wave sleep and rapid eye movement sleep (REM) and increased wakefulness. 5. DOPS (80-160 mg/kg, i.p.) did not significantly modify the sleep-wakefulness cycle apart from a decrease of the latency for the first REM episode after 160 mg/kg in the RO 4-4602 pretreated animals. PMID:166716

Coupling Graphene Sheets with Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Energy Storage and Microelectronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-13

of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite ( HOPG ) flake. Two electrode system containing platinum as counter electrode and HOPG as working electrode is... XRD ) patterns of the HOPG , exfoliated graphene, PyDop1-ɤ-Fe2O3 and PyDop1-ɤ-Fe2O3-graphene are given in Figure 1e. HOPG show a very sharp diffraction...atoms arranged in hexagonal pattern in honey comb crystal lattice, (c) TEM (d) HRTEM image of graphene- PyDop1-MNP hybrid, (e) XRD pattern of the HOPG

Pressure ulcer prevention knowledge among Jordanian nurses: a cross- sectional study

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Pressure ulcer remains a significant problem in the healthcare system. In addition to the suffering it causes patients, it bears a growing financial burden. Although pressure ulcer prevention and care have improved in recent years, pressure ulcer still exists and occurs in both hospital and community settings. In Jordan, there are a handful of studies on pressure ulcer. This study aims to explore levels of knowledge and knowledge sources about pressure ulcer prevention, as well as barriers to implementing pressure ulcer prevention guidelines among Jordanian nurses. Methods Using a cross-sectional study design and a self-administered questionnaire, data was collected from 194 baccalaureate and master’s level staff nurses working in eight Jordanian hospitals. From September to October of 2011, their knowledge levels about pressure ulcer prevention and the sources of this knowledge were assessed, along with the barriers which reduce successful pressure ulcer care and prevention. ANOVA and t-test analysis were used to test the differences in nurses’ knowledge according to participants’ characteristics. Means, standard deviation, and frequencies were used to describe nurses’ knowledge levels, knowledge sources, and barriers to pressure ulcer prevention. Results The majority (73%, n = 141) of nurses had inadequate knowledge about pressure ulcer prevention. The mean scores of the test for all participants was 10.84 out of 26 (SD = 2.3, range = 5–17), with the lowest score in themes related to PU etiology, preventive measures to reduce amount of pressure/shear, and risk assessment. In-service training was the second source of education on pressure ulcer, coming after university training. Shortage of staff and lack of time were the most frequently cited barriers to carrying out pressure ulcer risk assessment, documentation, and prevention. Conclusions This study highlights concerns about Jordanian nurses’ knowledge of pressure ulcer prevention. The

[Pure akinesia presenting with antecollis].

PubMed

Ota, Satoru; Tsuchiya, Kuniaki

2005-10-01

We reported a 77-year-old woman having pure akinesia who presented with antecollis induced by L-threo-3, 4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS). At the age of 70, she noticed increasing difficulty in standing up from a seat and moving. Afterward, she developed gait disturbance with difficulty in initiating walking, frozen gait, and postural instability. At 73 years of age, she came to our hospital, because she gradually fell down easily. Neurological examination disclosed mild akinesia with freezing symptom and kinésie paradoxale. No evidence of dementia, supranuclear gaze palsy, pseudobulbar palsy, rigidity, or tremor were present. As she developed akinesia, of which L-dopa therapy achieved little improvement, we clinically diagnosed as having pure akinesia. At age 74, L-DOPS was administered at a dose of 300mg per day and gradually increased up to 900mg per day, because her postural reflex was markedly disturbed and gait showed severe unsteadiness. Amelioration of frozen gait and unsteadiness were recognized, but efficacy of L-DOPS was temporal. It is well known that reported cases of pure akinesia were pathologically diagnosed as having progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) or pallido-nigro-luysian atrophy. Therefore, the present case was suspected as having pathological changes which involved degeneration of the substantia nigra and globus pallidus. After three years of treatment with L-DOPS, at age 77, she was admitted to our hospital for abrupt onset of her dropped head. Hematological examinations were normal, cervical MRI showed no evidence of paracervical muscular atrophy, and electromyography did not demonstrate any abnormal change. In addition, her posterior cervical muscles showed abnormally high tension, so the dropped head was considered due to antecollis. After admission, antecollis disappeared rapidly following discontinuation of L-DOPS. However the mechanism of drug induced dystonia is imperfectly understood on the basis of the clinical course, L-DOPS was

New Round of Studies Begin in Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The NCI Division of Cancer Prevention’s Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program, also known as the Consortia for Early Phase Prevention Trials, is beginning a new round of studies in the effort toward systematic early clinical development of promising preventive agents for people at increased risk of developing cancer. |

Phosphatidylazidothymidine and phosphatidyl-ddC: assessment of uptake in mouse lymphoid tissues and antiviral activities in human immunodeficiency virus-infected cells and in Rauscher leukemia virus-infected mice.

PubMed Central

Hostetler, K Y; Richman, D D; Sridhar, C N; Felgner, P L; Felgner, J; Ricci, J; Gardner, M F; Selleseth, D W; Ellis, M N

1994-01-01

During the early stages of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, although symptoms are absent and viral replication in peripheral blood mononuclear cells is low, substantial levels of HIV replication can be documented in lymphoid tissue [G. Pantaleo, C. Graziosi, J.F. Demarest, L. Butini, M. Montroni, C.H. Fox, J.M. Orenstein, D.P. Kotler, and A.S. Fauci, Nature (London) 362:355-358, 1993, and J. Embretsen, M. Zupancic, J.L. Ribas, A. Burke, P. Racz, K. Tenner-Tacz, and A.T. Haase, Nature (London) 362:359-362, 1993]. This observation suggests that earlier treatment of HIV infection may be indicated and that strategies for enhancing drug targeting to the lymphoid tissue reservoris of HIV infection may be beneficial. To address this issue, we synthesized dioleoylphosphatidyl-ddC (DOP-ddC) and dipalmitoylphosphatidyl-3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (DPP-AZT), phospholipid prodrugs which form lipid bilayers and which are readily incorporated into liposomes. The anti-HIV activity of DOP-ddC was similar to that of ddC in HIV type 1-infected HT4-6C cells, but DPP-AZT was considerably less active than AZT in HT4-6C cells. Liposomes containing DOP-[3H]ddC or DPP-[3H]AZT administered intraperitoneally to mice produced greater levels of total radioactivity over time in plasma, spleen, and lymphoid tissue relative to the results with [3H]ddC and [3H]AZT, respectively. DPP-AZT administered intraperitoneally in liposomes as a single daily dose to mice infected with Rauscher leukemia virus prevented increased spleen weight and reverse transcriptase levels in serum with a dose-response roughly comparable to that of AZT given continuously in the drinking water. DOP-ddC, DPP-AZT, and lipid conjugates of other antiretroviral nucleosides may provide higher levels of drug over time in plasma and in lymph nodes and spleen, important reservoirs of HIV infection, and may represent an interesting alternative approach to antiviral nucleoside treatment of AIDS. PMID:7695264

FRA/Volpe Center trespass prevention research study

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-11-08

Presentation on the Trespass Prevention Research Study. The project was initiated in August 2009 with the goal of eliminating trespasser incidents and fatalities and to provide national guidance on trespass mitigation. The city of West Palm Beach Flo...

Delusions of parasitosis.

PubMed

Wong, Jillian W; Koo, John Ym

2013-01-01

Patients with delusions of parasitosis (DOP) are more commonly recognized in dermatology practices today. However, dermatologists may feel uncomfortable treating these patients because of the psychiatric nature of their disorder. As a result of the fact that DOP patients strongly prefer to seek treatment from dermatologists rather than mental health professionals, it is important for dermatologists to be well equipped with a basic understanding of the disorder and with tools to assist this patient population. In this review, we discuss the epidemiology, presentation, differential diagnosis and treatment strategy for patients with DOP.

Modeling and Simulation of Ceramic Arrays to Improve Ballaistic Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

Ref: ARL-TR- 2219 , 2000.) Al 5083 .30 Caliber AP-M2 E ^Projectile — 3.918 mm tAj = 76.2 mm H = 20.0 mm VP = 400 - 900 m/s Al ^ Al H 2013...reference - ARL-TR- 2219 , 2000. 15. SUBJECT TERMS .30cal AP M2 Projectile, 762x39 PS Projectile, SPH, Aluminum 5083, SiC, DoP Expeminets, AutoDyn...on the DoP experiments described in reference - ARL-TR- 2219 , 2000. 2013 © University of Delaware DOP OF .30cal PROJECTILE INTO MONOLITHIC ALUMINUM

Successful factors to prevent pressure ulcers - an interview study.

PubMed

Hommel, Ami; Gunningberg, Lena; Idvall, Ewa; Bååth, Carina

2017-01-01

To explore successful factors to prevent pressure ulcers in hospital settings. Pressure ulcer prevalence has been recognised as a quality indicator for both patient safety and quality of care in hospital and community settings. Most pressure ulcer can be prevented if effective measures are implemented and evaluated. The Swedish Association of Local Authorities and Regions initiated nationwide pressure ulcer prevalence studies in 2011. In 2014, after four years of measurement, the prevalence was still unacceptably high on a national level. The mean prevalence of pressure ulcer in the spring of 2014 was 14% in hospital settings with a range from 2·7-36·4%. Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted. A qualitative content analysis, in addition to Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services frameworks, was used in the analysis of the data text. Individual interviews and focus groups were used to create opportunities for both individual responses and group interactions. The study was conducted at six hospitals during the fall of 2014. Three main categories were identified as successful factors to prevent pressure ulcer in hospitals: creating a good organisation, maintaining persistent awareness and realising the benefits for patients. The goal for all healthcare personnel must be delivering high-quality, sustainable care to patients. Prevention of pressure ulcer is crucial in this work. It seems to be easier for small hospitals (with a low number of units/beds) to develop and sustain an effective organisation in prevention work. The nurse managers' attitude and engagement are crucial to enable the personnel to work actively with pressure ulcer prevention. Strategies are proposed to advance clinical leadership, knowledge, skills and abilities for the crucial implementation of pressure ulcer prevention. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Influence of surface roughness on degree of polarization of biotite plagioclase gneiss varying with viewing angle].

PubMed

Xiang, Yun; Yan, Lei; Zhao, Yun-sheng; Gou, Zhi-yang; Chen, Wei

2011-12-01

Polarized reflectance is influenced by such factors as its physical and chemical properties, the viewing geometry composed of light incident zenith, viewing zenith and viewing azimuth relative to light incidence, surface roughness and texture, surface density, detection wavelengths, polarization phase angle and so on. In the present paper, the influence of surface roughness on the degree of polarization (DOP) of biotite plagioclase gneiss varying with viewing angle was inquired and analyzed quantitatively. The polarized spectra were measured by ASD FS3 spectrometer on the goniometer located in Northeast Normal University. When the incident zenith angle was fixed at 50 degrees, it was showed that on the rock surfaces with different roughness, in the specular reflection direction, the DOP spectrum within 350-2500 nm increased to the highest value first, and then began to decline varying with viewing zenith angle from 0 degree to 80 degrees. The characterized band (520 +/- 10) nm was picked out for further analysis. The correlation analysis between the peak DOP value of zenith and surface roughness showed that they are in a power function relationship, with the regression equation: y = 0.604x(-0.297), R2 = 0.985 4. The correlation model of the angle where the peak is in and the surface roughness is y = 3.4194x + 51.584, y < 90 degrees , R2 = 0.8177. With the detecting azimuth farther away from 180 degrees azimuth where the maximum DOP exists, the DOP lowers gradually and tends to 0. In the detection azimuth 180 dgrees , the correlation analysis between the peak values of DOP on the (520 =/- 10) nm band for five rocks and their surface roughness indicates a power function, with the regression equation being y = 0.5822x(-0.333), R2 = 0.9843. F tests of the above regression models indicate that the peak value and its corresponding viewing angle correlate much with surface roughness. The study provides a theoretical base for polarization remote sensing, and impels the

Intervention Strategies Used in Sport Injury Prevention Studies: A Systematic Review Identifying Studies Applying the Haddon Matrix.

PubMed

Vriend, Ingrid; Gouttebarge, Vincent; Finch, Caroline F; van Mechelen, Willem; Verhagen, Evert A L M

2017-10-01

Prevention of sport injuries is crucial to maximise the health and societal benefits of a physically active lifestyle. To strengthen the translation and implementation of the available evidence base on effective preventive measures, a range of potentially relevant strategies should be considered. Our aim was to identify and categorise intervention strategies for the prevention of acute sport injuries evaluated in the scientific literature, applying the Haddon matrix, and identify potential knowledge gaps. Five electronic databases were searched (PubMed, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Cochrane) for studies that evaluated the effect of interventions on the occurrence of acute sport injuries. Studies were required to include a control group/condition, prospective data collection, and a quantitative injury outcome measure. A total of 155 studies were included, mostly randomised controlled trials (43%). The majority of studies (55%) focussed on strategies requiring a behavioural change on the part of athletes. Studies predominantly evaluated the preventive effect of various training programmes targeted at the 'pre-event' phase (n = 73) and the use of equipment to avoid injury in the 'event phase' (n = 29). A limited number of studies evaluated the preventive effect of strategies geared at rules and regulations (n = 14), and contextual modifications (n = 18). Studies specifically aimed at preventing re-injuries were a minority (n = 8), and were mostly related to ankle sprains (n = 5). Valuable insight into the extent of the evidence base of sport injury prevention studies was obtained for 20 potential intervention strategies. This approach can be used to monitor potential gaps in the knowledge base on sport injury prevention.

Prevention of healthcare associated infections: a descriptive study.

PubMed

Accardi, R; Castaldi, S; Marzullo, A; Ronchi, S; Laquintana, D; Lusignani, M

2017-01-01

This study aims to verify whether there are, and to which degree, knowledge and adherence to guidelines on the prevention and control of healthcare associated infections by nursing staff. Study design. A descriptive study was conducted on a sample of nurses in the areas of medicine, surgery, and its own specialties of the Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico in Milan from 1st December 2015 to 29th February 2016. The knowledge of the nursing staff have been investigated through the use of questionnaires with anonymous self-reporting method; inspections in the wards using observational grids were carried out in order to verify adherence to best-practice principles. The data collected concern, both for the knowledge and for the practice, the following macro-areas: a) Cleaning, disinfection and sterilization, b) Hand hygiene, c) Standard and isolation precautions, d) Prevention of catheter-related urinary tract infections, e) Prevention of catheter-related bacteremia, f) Prevention of surgical site infections, g) Prevention of respiratory tract infections. Statistical analyzes were performed using Microsoft Office Excel and STATA software. 245 nurses from 16 wards were involved. In each wards 4 inspections were conducted. 128 completed questionnaires were returned, all considered for the analysis of data; the adhesion was 52.2%. The participants achieved an overall score of 15.0 ± 4.1 (mean ± SD) on a maximum achievable score of 23 and >75% of them have reached a sufficient level. Among the most positive results, it must be underlined that nurses have demonstrated a higher level of knowledge for hand hygiene, with >81% correct answers; that the lumens of central venous catheters, when not in use, were kept covered with a protective cap in more than 99% of cases; that, for patients bearers of urinary catheter, the urinary drainage bag was maintained below the level of the bladder, as recommended, in more than 91

Teachers' Responsibilities in Preventing School Violence: A Case Study in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yavuzer, Yasemin; Gundogdu, Rezzan

2012-01-01

It is generally acknowledged that teachers play an important role in preventing or reducing violence in schools. The objectives of this study were: (a) to identify teachers' responsibilities in terms of preventing violence among school children and (b) to solicit teachers' views as what they have been doing in preventing violence. Sample for the…

Bioactive Conformations of Two Seminal Delta Opioid Receptor Penta-peptides Inferred from Free-Energy Profiles

PubMed Central

Scarabelli, Guido; Provasi, Davide; Negri, Ana; Filizola, Marta

2013-01-01

Delta-opioid (DOP) receptors are members of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) sub-family of opioid receptors, and are evolutionarily related, with homology exceeding 70%, to cognate mu-opioid (MOP), kappa-opioid (KOP), and nociceptin opioid (NOP) receptors. DOP receptors are considered attractive drug targets for pain management because agonists at these receptors are reported to exhibit strong antinociceptive activity with relatively few side effects. Among the most potent analgesics targeting the DOP receptor are the linear and cyclic enkephalin analogs known as DADLE (Tyr-D-Ala-GlyPhe-D-Leu) and DPDPE (Tyr-D-Pen-Gly-Phe-D-Pen), respectively. Several computational and experimental studies have been carried out over the years to characterize the conformational profile of these penta-peptides with the ultimate goal of designing potent peptidomimetic agonists for the DOP receptor. The computational studies published to date, however, have investigated only a limited range of timescales and used over-simplified representations of the solvent environment. We provide here a thorough exploration of the conformational space of DADLE and DPDPE in an explicit solvent, using microsecond-scale molecular dynamics and bias-exchange metadynamics simulations. Free-energy profiles derived from these simulations point to a small number of DADLE and DPDPE conformational minima in solution, which are separated by relatively small energy barriers. Candidate bioactive forms of these peptides are selected from identified common spatial arrangements of key pharmacophoric points within all sampled conformations. PMID:23564013

Shy-Drager syndrome. Effect of fludrocortisone and L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine on the blood pressure and regional cerebral blood flow.

PubMed Central

Matsubara, S; Sawa, Y; Yokoji, H; Takamori, M

1990-01-01

In nine cases of Shy-Drager syndrome, the changes in blood pressure and cerebral blood flow on sitting up from a supine position were studied. The influence of fludrocortisone, a synthetic mineralocorticoid, and L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (DOPS), a precursor of norepinephrine, on these changes was examined. On sitting up, the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) measured by Xe133 inhalation showed a tendency to decrease. Fludrocortisone reduced the fall of the mean blood pressure significantly. DOPS reduced the fall of both the diastolic blood pressure and rCBF significantly. PMID:2283531

Loss-of-function analyses of the fragile X-related and dopamine receptor genes by RNA interference in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus.

PubMed

Hamada, Aska; Miyawaki, Katsuyuki; Honda-sumi, Eri; Tomioka, Kenji; Mito, Taro; Ohuchi, Hideyo; Noji, Sumihare

2009-08-01

In order to explore a possibility that the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus would be a useful model to unveil molecular mechanisms of human diseases, we performed loss-of-function analyses of Gryllus genes homologous to human genes that are responsible for human disorders, fragile X mental retardation 1 (fmr1) and Dopamine receptor (DopR). We cloned cDNAs of their Gryllus homologues, Gb'fmr1, Gb'DopRI, and Gb'DopRII, and analyzed their functions with use of nymphal RNA interference (RNAi). For Gb'fmr1, three major phenotypes were observed: (1) abnormal wing postures, (2) abnormal calling song, and (3) loss of the circadian locomotor rhythm, while for Gb'DopRI, defects of wing posture and morphology were found. These results indicate that the cricket has the potential to become a novel model system to explore human neuronal pathogenic mechanisms and to screen therapeutic drugs by RNAi. Copyright (c) 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Measuring sustainment of prevention programs and initiatives: a study protocol.

PubMed

Palinkas, Lawrence A; Spear, Suzanne E; Mendon, Sapna J; Villamar, Juan; Valente, Thomas; Chou, Chi-Ping; Landsverk, John; Kellam, Shepperd G; Brown, C Hendricks

2016-07-16

Sustaining prevention efforts directed at substance use and mental health problems is one of the greatest, yet least understood, challenges in the field of implementation science. A large knowledge gap exists regarding the meaning of the term "sustainment" and what factors predict or even measure sustainability of effective prevention programs and support systems. The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) supports a diverse portfolio of prevention and treatment grant programs that aim to improve population and individual level behavioral health. This study focuses on four SAMHSA prevention grant programs, two of which target substance abuse prevention at the state or single community level, one targets suicide prevention, and one targets prevention of aggressive/disruptive behavior in elementary schools. An examination of all four grant programs simultaneously provides an opportunity to determine what is meant by the term sustainment and identify and support both the unique requirements for improving sustainability for each program as well as for developing a generalizable framework comprised of core components of sustainment across diverse prevention approaches. Based on an analysis of qualitative and quantitative data of 10 grantees supported by these four programs, we will develop a flexible measurement system, with both general and specific components, that can bring precision to monitoring sustainment of infrastructure, activities, and outcomes for each prevention approach. We will then transform this system for use in evaluating and improving the likelihood of achieving prevention effort sustainment. To achieve these goals, we will (1) identify core components of sustainment of prevention programs and their support infrastructures; (2) design a measurement system for monitoring and providing feedback regarding sustainment within the four SAMHSA's prevention-related grant programs; and (3) pilot test the predictability of this

Primary Prevention: Reducing Institutional Racism/Sexism Through Consultation. Case Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Neil, James M.; Conyne, Robert

This paper presents a two-year primary prevention intervention aimed at reducing institutional racism and sexism at a large midwestern university. A case study format is used to describe the history, process, and outcomes of the consultation that resulted in proactive change in the institution. Definitions of primary prevention are given and the…

Local administration of calcitriol positively influences bone remodeling and maturation during restoration of mandibular bone defects in rats.

PubMed

Liu, Hongrui; Cui, Jian; Feng, Wei; Lv, Shengyu; Du, Juan; Sun, Jing; Han, Xiuchun; Wang, Zhenming; Lu, Xiong; Yimin; Oda, Kimimitsu; Amizuka, Norio; Li, Minqi

2015-04-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of calcitriol on osteoinduction following local administration into mandibular bone defects. Calcitriol-loaded absorbable collagen membrane scaffolds were prepared using the polydopamine coating method and characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Composite scaffolds were implanted into rat mandibular bone defects in the following groups: no graft material (control), bare collagen membrane (CM group), collagen membrane bearing polydopamine coating (DOP/CM group), and collagen membrane bearing polydopamine coating absorbed with calcitriol (CAL/DOP/CM group). At 1, 2, 4 and 8weeks post-surgery, the osteogenic potential of calcitriol was examined by histological and immunohistochemical methods. Following in vivo implantation, calcitriol-loaded composite scaffolds underwent rapid degradation with pronounced replacement by new bone and induced reunion of the bone marrow cavity. Calcitriol showed strong potential in inhibiting osteoclastogenesis and promotion of osteogenic differentiation at weeks 1, and 2. Furthermore, statistical analysis revealed that the newly formed bone volume in the CAL/DOP/CM group was significantly higher than other groups at weeks 1, and 2. At weeks 4, and 8, the CAL/DOP/CM group showed more mineralized bone and uniform collagen structure. These data suggest that local administration of calcitriol is promising in promoting osteogenesis and mineralization for restoration of mandibular bone defects. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Degradation of m-Cresol with Fe-MCM-41 in Catalytic Ozonation].

PubMed

Sun, Wen-jing; Wang, Ya-min; Wei, Huang-zhao; Wang, Sen; Li, Xu-ning; Li, Jing-mei; Sun, Cheng-lin; An, Lu-yang

2015-04-01

Fe-MCM-41 was first used for the treatment of m-cresol in catalytic ozonation. The effect of the percentage of Fe dopping mass, catalyst dosage and the natural concentration of substrate on m-cresol conversion and TOC removal were studied. The structural property of Fe-MCM-41 was characterized by X-ray diffraction, temperature-programmed reduction, Mössbauer spectra and BET of catalysts. The results showed that Fe dopping mass had a great effect on the catalytic activity of Fe-MCM-41 in catalytic ozonation and the optimal percentage of dopping mass was 4.4% (wt). The results showed that with Fe dopping mass increase, the degree of crystallinity became weaker, the crystal surface distance reduced, as well as the specific surface area, pore volume and aperture. γ-Fe2O3 was the only form staying on the surface of MCM-41, and the catalyst had good ferromagnetism and stability. Ozonation played a role of both direct oxidation and indirect oxidation in the reaction, approximately the same ratio. Under the experimental condition of the natural pH of model wastewater,using 4.4% (wt) Fe-MCM-41 as catalyst, natural concentration of m-cresol 500 mg x L(-1), catalyst dosage 0.1 g x L(-1) and reaction time 30 min, m-cresol conversion and TOC removal were 100% and 26.8%, respectively.

An Empirical Case Study of a Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Initiative in Georgia

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schober, Daniel J.; Fawcett, Stephen B.; Thigpen, Sally; Curtis, Anna; Wright, Renee

2012-01-01

Objective: This empirical case study describes Prevent Child Abuse Georgia's effort to prevent child sexual abuse (CSA) by educating communities throughout the state on supporting preventive behaviour. The initiative consisted of three major components: (1) dissemination of CSA prevention messages and materials; (2) a statewide helpline that…

Have clinical studies demonstrated diabetes prevention or delay of diabetes through early treatment?

PubMed

Southwood, Robin L

2010-01-01

The incidence of type 2 diabetes continues to increase at alarming rates. Prediabetes is a state of abnormal glycemic values that are not abnormal enough to result in the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Significant interest in the prevention of diabetes has resulted in trials evaluating pharmacologic intervention and lifestyle intervention to prevent the development of diabetes. Controversy exists over the exact definition of diabetes prevention. Agents might possibly delay diagnosis of diabetes via pharmacologic lowering of blood glucose. Goals of diabetes prevention include decreased cardiovascular disease. Trials assessing diabetes prevention should assess 1) Impact of the study drug upon the incidence of diabetes, 2) Impact of the study drug upon diagnosis of diabetes after post-treatment washout phase, 3) Assessment of insulin sensitivity/@-cell function/insulin secretion and blood glucose, 4) Assessment of confounding factors, 5) Impact of the study drug on the occurrence of cardiovascular disease. The published studies were reviewed using these criteria. Six studies evaluating seven agents have been were reviewed. Six of the seven agents reduced diagnosis of diabetes during use, but only two demonstrated effect after washout phase. One of the two agents has been withdrawn from the market. The second agent had a short follow-up period making the results difficult to interpret. Assessment of insulin secretion at entry to trial was common, however ongoing reassessment was uncommon. All studies attempted to assess confounding factors, however stratification of drug benefit relative to amount of lifestyle modification benefit was not reported in trials. Cardiovascular benefit in the form of reduced hypertension was documented with three agents. Pharmacologic prevention of type 2 diabetes remains unproven, due in part to the difficulty distinguishing between prevention and delay. Reduction in cardiovascular benefit is unproven with most agents studied. Larger

Critical Care Pharmacist Market Perceptions: Comparison of Critical Care Program Directors and Directors of Pharmacy

PubMed Central

Hager, David R.; Persaud, Rosemary A.; Naseman, Ryan W.; Choudhary, Kavish; Carter, Kristen E.; Hansen, Amanda

2017-01-01

Background: While hospital beds continue to decline as patients previously treated as inpatients are stabilized in ambulatory settings, the number of critical care beds available in the United States continues to rise. Growth in pharmacy student graduation, postgraduate year 2 critical care (PGY2 CC) residency programs, and positions has also increased. There is a perception that the critical care trained pharmacist market is saturated, yet this has not been evaluated since the rise in pharmacy graduates and residency programs. Purpose: To describe the current perception of critical care residency program directors (CC RPDs) and directors of pharmacy (DOPs) on the critical care pharmacist job market and to evaluate critical care postresidency placement and anticipated changes in PGY2 CC programs. Methods: Two electronic surveys were distributed from October 2015 to November 2015 through Vizient/University HealthSystem Consortium, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), Society of Critical Care Medicine, and American College of Clinical Pharmacy listservs to target 2 groups of respondents: CC RPDs and DOPs. Questions were based on the ASHP Pharmacy Forecast and the Pharmacy Workforce Center’s Aggregate Demand Index and were intended to identify perceptions of the critical care market of the 2 groups. Results: Of 116 CC RPDs, there were 66 respondents (56.9% response rate). Respondents have observed an increase in applicants; however, they do not anticipate increasing the number of positions in the next 5 years. The overall perception is that there is a balance in supply and demand in the critical care trained pharmacist market. A total of 82 DOPs responded to the survey. Turnover of critical care pharmacists within respondent organizations is expected to be low. Although a majority of DOPs plan to expand residency training positions, only 9% expect to increase positions in critical care PGY2 training. Overall, DOP respondents indicated a balance of

Critical Care Pharmacist Market Perceptions: Comparison of Critical Care Program Directors and Directors of Pharmacy.

PubMed

Hager, David R; Persaud, Rosemary A; Naseman, Ryan W; Choudhary, Kavish; Carter, Kristen E; Hansen, Amanda

2017-05-01

Background: While hospital beds continue to decline as patients previously treated as inpatients are stabilized in ambulatory settings, the number of critical care beds available in the United States continues to rise. Growth in pharmacy student graduation, postgraduate year 2 critical care (PGY2 CC) residency programs, and positions has also increased. There is a perception that the critical care trained pharmacist market is saturated, yet this has not been evaluated since the rise in pharmacy graduates and residency programs. Purpose: To describe the current perception of critical care residency program directors (CC RPDs) and directors of pharmacy (DOPs) on the critical care pharmacist job market and to evaluate critical care postresidency placement and anticipated changes in PGY2 CC programs. Methods: Two electronic surveys were distributed from October 2015 to November 2015 through Vizient/University HealthSystem Consortium, American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), Society of Critical Care Medicine, and American College of Clinical Pharmacy listservs to target 2 groups of respondents: CC RPDs and DOPs. Questions were based on the ASHP Pharmacy Forecast and the Pharmacy Workforce Center's Aggregate Demand Index and were intended to identify perceptions of the critical care market of the 2 groups. Results: Of 116 CC RPDs, there were 66 respondents (56.9% response rate). Respondents have observed an increase in applicants; however, they do not anticipate increasing the number of positions in the next 5 years. The overall perception is that there is a balance in supply and demand in the critical care trained pharmacist market. A total of 82 DOPs responded to the survey. Turnover of critical care pharmacists within respondent organizations is expected to be low. Although a majority of DOPs plan to expand residency training positions, only 9% expect to increase positions in critical care PGY2 training. Overall, DOP respondents indicated a balance of

Systematic Review of Community-Based Childhood Obesity Prevention Studies

PubMed Central

Segal, Jodi; Wu, Yang; Wilson, Renee; Wang, Youfa

2013-01-01

OBJECTIVE: This study systematically reviewed community-based childhood obesity prevention programs in the United States and high-income countries. METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, PsychInfo, CINAHL, clinicaltrials.gov, and the Cochrane Library for relevant English-language studies. Studies were eligible if the intervention was primarily implemented in the community setting; had at least 1 year of follow-up after baseline; and compared results from an intervention to a comparison group. Two independent reviewers conducted title scans and abstract reviews and reviewed the full articles to assess eligibility. Each article received a double review for data abstraction. The second reviewer confirmed the first reviewer’s data abstraction for completeness and accuracy. RESULTS: Nine community-based studies were included; 5 randomized controlled trials and 4 non–randomized controlled trials. One study was conducted only in the community setting, 3 were conducted in the community and school setting, and 5 were conducted in the community setting in combination with at least 1 other setting such as the home. Desirable changes in BMI or BMI z-score were found in 4 of the 9 studies. Two studies reported significant improvements in behavioral outcomes (1 in physical activity and 1 in vegetable intake). CONCLUSIONS: The strength of evidence is moderate that a combined diet and physical activity intervention conducted in the community with a school component is more effective at preventing obesity or overweight. More research and consistent methods are needed to understand the comparative effectiveness of childhood obesity prevention programs in the community setting. PMID:23753099

Nutraceuticals in cardiovascular prevention: lessons from studies on endothelial function.

PubMed

Zuchi, Cinzia; Ambrosio, Giuseppe; Lüscher, Thomas F; Landmesser, Ulf

2010-08-01

An "unhealthy" diet is considered as a main cause of increased atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in the industrialized countries. There is a substantial interest in the potential cardiovascular protective effects of "nutraceuticals," that is food-derived substances that exert beneficial health effects. The correct understanding of cardiovascular effects of these compounds will have important implications for cardiovascular prevention strategies. Endothelial dysfunction is thought to play an important role in development and progression of atherosclerosis, and the characterization of the endothelial effects of several nutraceuticals may provide important insights into their potential role in cardiovascular prevention. At the same time, the analysis of the endothelial effects of nutraceuticals may also provide valuable insights into mechanisms of why certain nutraceuticals may not be effective in cardiovascular prevention, and it may aid in the identification of food-derived substances that may have detrimental cardiovascular effects. These findings further support the notion that nutraceuticals do need support from large clinical outcome trials with respect to their efficacy and safety profile for cardiovascular prevention, before their widespread use can be recommended. In fact, the term nutraceutical was coined to encourage an extensive and profound research activity in this field, and numerous large-scale clinical outcome trials to examine the effects of nutraceuticals on cardiovascular events have now been performed or are still ongoing. Whereas it is possible that single nutraceuticals may be effective in cardiovascular prevention, this field of research provides also valuable insights into which food components may be particularly important for cardiovascular prevention, to further advice the composition of a particularly healthy diet. The present review summarizes recent studies on the endothelial effects of several nutraceuticals, that have been

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 50 - Reference Method for the Determination of Suspended Particulate Matter in the Atmosphere (High...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... filters used are specified to have a minimum collection efficiency of 99 percent for 0.3 µm (DOP... electronic timers have much better set-point resolution than mechanical timers, but require a battery backup... Collection efficiency: 99 percent minimum as measured by the DOP test (ASTM-2986) for particles of 0.3 µm...

40 CFR Appendix B to Part 50 - Reference Method for the Determination of Suspended Particulate Matter in the Atmosphere (High...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... filters used are specified to have a minimum collection efficiency of 99 percent for 0.3 µm (DOP... electronic timers have much better set-point resolution than mechanical timers, but require a battery backup... Collection efficiency: 99 percent minimum as measured by the DOP test (ASTM-2986) for particles of 0.3 µm...

First lessons from the Kiel Obesity Prevention Study (KOPS).

PubMed

Danielzik, S; Pust, S; Landsberg, B; Müller, M J

2005-09-01

Prevention of obesity is a public health agenda. There are only few longitudinal studies on prevention of overweight in children. The Kiel Obesity Prevention Study (KOPS) intends to characterise the determinants of childhood overweight and the effect of preventive measures within schools as well as within families. Between 1996 and 2005, KOPS investigated 4997 German 5-7 and 4487 9-11-y-old children or 41 and 37% of the total population of all first and fourth graders in 32 primary schools in Kiel (248 000 inhabitants), northwest Germany. Main outcome measures were nutritional status, health habits and risk factors of disease. In addition, health promotion was performed each year in three schools for all first graders and their teachers (nutrition education and active school breaks) together with a family-oriented approach in families with obese and preobese children. Up to now, the children were followed for 4y and were reinvestigated at age 10 y. The KOPS population was representative for all 5-7 and 9-11-y-old children in Kiel. The prevalence of overweight/ obesity (> or = 90th/97th BMI reference percentile) was 7.0/5.8 and 11.3/6.3% in 5-7 and 9-11-y-old children, respectively. Parental overweight, a low socio-economic status and a high birth weight were identified as main risk factors for overweight in prepubertal children. The first results of the interventions show that obesity prevention was possible, but there were limited success rates in boys and children from low social class. Faced with the environmental contributors to the obesity problem societal rather than individual responsibilities are evident. This idea suggests that dissecting and tackling the obesogenic environment is necessary to complement school- and family-based interventions.

Primary prevention research: a preliminary review of program outcome studies.

PubMed

Schaps, E; Churgin, S; Palley, C S; Takata, B; Cohen, A Y

1980-07-01

This article reviews 35 drug abuse prevention program evaluations employing drug-specific outcome measures. Many of these evaluations assessed the effects of "new generation" prevention strategies: affective, peer-oriented, and multidimensional approaches. Only 14 studies evaluated purely informational programs. Evaluations were analyzed to ascertain (1) characteristics of the programs under study, (2) characteristics of the research designs, and (3) patterns among findings. This review provides some evidence that the newer prevention strategies may produce more positive and fewer negative outcomes than did older drug information approaches. Over 70% of the programs using the newer strategies produced some positive effects; only 29% showed negative effects. In contrast, 46% of informational programs showed positive effects; 46% showed negative effects. These findings must be approached with great caution, since the research was frequently scientifically inadequate, and since rigor of research was negatively correlated with intensity and duration of program services.

Preparation of PVA membrane for immobilization of GOD for glucose biosensor.

PubMed

Kumar, Jitendra; D'Souza, S F

2008-03-15

A membrane was prepared using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) with low and high degree of polymerization (DOP), acetone, benzoic acid (BA) and was cross-linked by UV treatment. Membrane composition was optimized on the basis of swelling index. Membrane prepared with 12% low DOP and 8% high DOP of PVA, 2% BA, dissolved in buffer containing 20% acetone and cross-linked with UV treatment exhibited lower swelling index. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) study of the membranes showed appearance of a strong band at approximately 2337 cm(-1) when UV was used for cross-linking in the presence of benzoic acid. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) study revealed that membrane cross-linked with UV treatment was smoother. Glucose oxidase (GOD)-PVA membrane was associated with the dissolved oxygen (DO) probe for biosensor reading. Glucose was detected on the basis of depletion of oxygen, when immobilized GOD oxidizes glucose to gluconolactone. A wide detection range, 0.9-225 mg/dl was estimated from the linear range of calibration plot of biosensor reading. Membranes were reused for 32 reactions without significant loss of activity and stored for 30 days (approximately 90% activity) at 4 degrees C. Membranes were also used with real blood samples.

Multi-band polarimetry of post-asymptotic giant branch stars - I. Optical measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akras, S.; Ramírez Vélez, J. C.; Nanouris, N.; Ramos-Larios, G.; López, J. M.; Hiriart, D.; Panoglou, D.

2017-04-01

We present new optical broad-band (UBVRI) aperture polarimetric observations of 53 post-asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars selected to exhibit a large near-infrared excess. 24 out of the 53 stars (45 per cent of our sample) are presented for the first time. A statistical analysis shows four distinctive groups of polarized post-AGB stars: unpolarized or very lowly polarized (degree of polarization or DoP < 1 per cent), lowly polarized (1 per cent < DoP < 4 per cent), moderately polarized (4 per cent < DoP < 8 per cent) and highly polarized (DoP > 8 per cent). 23 out of the 53 (66 per cent) belong to the first group, 10 (19 per cent) to the second, five (9 per cent) to the third and only three (6 per cent) to the last group. Approximately 34 per cent of our sample was found to be unpolarized objects, which is close to the percentage of round planetary nebulae. On average, the low and moderate groups show a wavelength-dependent polarization that increases towards shorter wavelengths, implying an intrinsic origin of the polarization, which signifies a Rayleigh-like scattering spectrum typical for non-symmetrical envelopes composed principally of small dust grains. The moderately polarized stars exhibit higher K - W3 and W1 - W3 colour indices compared with the group of lowly polarized stars, suggesting a possible relation between DoP and mass-loss rate. Moreover, they are found to be systematically colder (redder in B - V), which may be associated with the condensation process close to these stars that results in a higher degree of polarization. We also provide evidence that multiple scattering in optically thin polar outflows is the mechanism that gives high DoP in post-AGB stars with bipolar or multi-polar envelopes.

L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine corrects neurochemical abnormalities in a Menkes disease mouse model.

PubMed

Donsante, Anthony; Sullivan, Patricia; Goldstein, David S; Brinster, Lauren R; Kaler, Stephen G

2013-02-01

Menkes disease is a lethal neurodegenerative disorder of infancy caused by mutations in a copper-transporting adenosine triphosphatase gene, ATP7A. Among its multiple cellular tasks, ATP7A transfers copper to dopamine beta hydroxylase (DBH) within the lumen of the Golgi network or secretory granules, catalyzing the conversion of dopamine to norepinephrine. In a well-established mouse model of Menkes disease, mottled-brindled (mo-br), we tested whether systemic administration of L-threo-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS), a drug used successfully to treat autosomal recessive norepinephrine deficiency, would improve brain neurochemical abnormalities and neuropathology. At 8, 10, and 12 days of age, wild-type and mo-br mice received intraperitoneal injections of 200μg/g body weight of L-DOPS, or mock solution. Five hours after the final injection, the mice were euthanized, and brains were removed. We measured catecholamine metabolites affected by DBH via high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, and assessed brain histopathology. Compared to mock-treated controls, mo-br mice that received intraperitoneal L-DOPS showed significant increases in brain norepinephrine (p < 0.001) and its deaminated metabolite, dihydroxyphenylglycol (p < 0.05). The ratio of a non-beta-hydroxylated metabolite in the catecholamine biosynthetic pathway, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, to the beta-hydroxylated metabolite, dihydroxyphenylglycol, improved equivalently to results obtained previously with brain-directed ATP7A gene therapy (p < 0.01). However, L-DOPS treatment did not arrest global brain pathology or improve somatic growth, as gene therapy had. We conclude that (1) L-DOPS crosses the blood-brain barrier in mo-br mice and corrects brain neurochemical abnormalities, (2) norepinephrine deficiency is not the cause of neurodegeneration in mo-br mice, and (3) L-DOPS treatment may ameliorate noradrenergic hypofunction in Menkes disease. Copyright © 2012 American

PREVENtion of HeartMate II Pump Thrombosis Through Clinical Management: The PREVENT multi-center study.

PubMed

Maltais, Simon; Kilic, Ahmet; Nathan, Sriram; Keebler, Mary; Emani, Sitaramesh; Ransom, John; Katz, Jason N; Sheridan, Brett; Brieke, Andreas; Egnaczyk, Gregory; Entwistle, John W; Adamson, Robert; Stulak, John; Uriel, Nir; O'Connell, John B; Farrar, David J; Sundareswaran, Kartik S; Gregoric, Igor

2017-01-01

Recommended structured clinical practices including implant technique, anti-coagulation strategy, and pump speed management (PREVENT [PREVENtion of HeartMate II Pump Thrombosis Through Clinical Management] recommendations) were developed to address risk of early (<3 months) pump thrombosis (PT) risk with HeartMate II (HMII; St. Jude Medical, Inc. [Thoratec Corporation], Pleasanton, CA). We prospectively assessed the HMII PT rate in the current era when participating centers adhered to the PREVENT recommendations. PREVENT was a prospective, multi-center, single-arm, non-randomized study of 300 patients implanted with HMII at 24 participating sites. Confirmed PT (any suspected PT confirmed visually and/or adjudicated by an independent assessor) was evaluated at 3 months (primary end-point) and at 6 months after implantation. The population included 83% men (age 57 years ± 13), 78% destination therapy, and 83% Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS) Profile 1-3. Primary end-point analysis showed a confirmed PT of 2.9% at 3 months and 4.8% at 6 months. Adherence to key recommendations included 78% to surgical recommendations, 95% to heparin bridging, and 79% to pump speeds ≥9,000 RPMs (92% >8,600 RPMs). Full adherence to implant techniques, heparin bridging, and pump speeds ≥9,000 RPMs resulted in a significantly lower risk of PT (1.9% vs 8.9%; p < 0.01) and lower composite risk of suspected thrombosis, hemolysis, and ischemic stroke (5.7% vs 17.7%; p < 0.01) at 6 months. Adoption of all components of a structured surgical implant technique and clinical management strategy (PREVENT recommendations) is associated with low rates of confirmed PT. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A numerical method for solving a nonlinear 2-D optimal control problem with the classical diffusion equation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mamehrashi, K.; Yousefi, S. A.

2017-02-01

This paper presents a numerical solution for solving a nonlinear 2-D optimal control problem (2DOP). The performance index of a nonlinear 2DOP is described with a state and a control function. Furthermore, dynamic constraint of the system is given by a classical diffusion equation. It is preferred to use the Ritz method for finding the numerical solution of the problem. The method is based upon the Legendre polynomial basis. By using this method, the given optimisation nonlinear 2DOP reduces to the problem of solving a system of algebraic equations. The benefit of the method is that it provides greater flexibility in which the given initial and boundary conditions of the problem are imposed. Moreover, compared with the eigenfunction method, the satisfactory results are obtained only in a small number of polynomials order. This numerical approach is applicable and effective for such a kind of nonlinear 2DOP. The convergence of the method is extensively discussed and finally two illustrative examples are included to observe the validity and applicability of the new technique developed in the current work.

Complex index of refraction estimation from degree of polarization with diffuse scattering consideration.

PubMed

Zhan, Hanyu; Voelz, David G; Cho, Sang-Yeon; Xiao, Xifeng

2015-11-20

The estimation of the refractive index from optical scattering off a target's surface is an important task for remote sensing applications. Optical polarimetry is an approach that shows promise for refractive index estimation. However, this estimation often relies on polarimetric models that are limited to specular targets involving single surface scattering. Here, an analytic model is developed for the degree of polarization (DOP) associated with reflection from a rough surface that includes the effect of diffuse scattering. A multiplicative factor is derived to account for the diffuse component and evaluation of the model indicates that diffuse scattering can significantly affect the DOP values. The scattering model is used in a new approach for refractive index estimation from a series of DOP values that involves jointly estimating n, k, and ρ(d)with a nonlinear equation solver. The approach is shown to work well with simulation data and additive noise. When applied to laboratory-measured DOP values, the approach produces significantly improved index estimation results relative to reference values.

Childhood and Adolescent Migraine Prevention (CHAMP) Study: A Double-blinded, Placebo-controlled, Comparative Effectiveness Study of Amitriptyline, Topiramate and Placebo in the Prevention of Childhood and Adolescent Migraine

PubMed Central

Hershey, Andrew D.; Powers, Scott W.; Coffey, Christopher S.; Eklund, Dixie D.; Chamberlin, Leigh Ann; Korbee, Leslie L.

2013-01-01

Background Migraine is one of the most common health problems for children and adolescents. If not successfully treated, it can impact patients and families with significant disability due to loss of school, work and social function. When headaches become frequent, it is essential to try to prevent the headaches. For children and adolescents this is guided by extrapolation from adult studies, a limited number of small studies in children and adolescents and practitioner preference. The aim of the Childhood and Adolescent Migraine Prevention (CHAMP) study is to determine the most effective preventive agent to use in children and adolescents. Methods CHAMP is a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, multi-center, comparative-effectiveness study of amitriptyline and topiramate for the prevention of episodic and chronic migraine, designed to mirror real-world practice, sponsored by the US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke/National Institutes of Health (U01NS076788). The study will recruit 675 subjects between the ages of 8 and 17 years old, inclusive, who have migraine with or without aura or chronic migraine as defined by the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd Edition, with at least 4 headaches in the 28 days prior to randomization. The subjects will be randomized in a 2:2:1 (amitriptyline: topiramate: placebo) ratio. Doses are weight based and will be slowly titrated over an 8 week period to a target dose of 1 mg/kg of amitriptyline and 2 mg/kg of topiramate. The primary outcome will be a 50% reduction in headache frequency between the 28 day baseline and the final 28 days of treatment (weeks 20–24). Conclusions The goal of the CHAMP study is to obtain level 1 evidence for the effectiveness of amitriptyline and topiramate in the prevention of migraine in children and adolescents. If this study proves to be positive, it will provide information to the practicing physician as how to best prevent migraine in children and

Australian nursing students' knowledge and attitudes towards pressure injury prevention: A cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Usher, Kim; Woods, Cindy; Brown, Janie; Power, Tamara; Lea, Jackie; Hutchinson, Marie; Mather, Carey; Miller, Andrea; Saunders, Annette; Mills, Jane; Zhao, Lin; Yates, Karen; Bodak, Marie; Southern, Joanne; Jackson, Debra

2018-05-01

The aim of this study was to assess student nurses' knowledge of and attitudes towards pressure injury prevention evidence-based guidelines. Pressure injuries are a substantial problem in many healthcare settings causing major harm to patients, and generating major economic costs for health service providers. Nurses have a crucial role in the prevention of pressure injuries across all health care settings. A multi-centered, cross-sectional study was conducted using a paper-based questionnaire with undergraduate nursing students enrolled in seven universities with campuses across five Australian states (Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, Victoria and Tasmania). Data were collected from nursing students using two validated instruments (Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Instrument and Attitude Toward Pressure Ulcer Prevention Instrument), to measure students' pressure injury prevention knowledge and attitudes. Students reported relatively low pressure injury prevention knowledge scores (51%), and high attitude scores (78%). Critical issues in this study were nursing students' lack of knowledge about preventative strategies to reduce the amount and duration of pressure/shear, and lower confidence in their capability to prevent pressure injury. Level of education and exposure to working in a greater number of different clinical units were significantly related to pressure injury prevention knowledge and attitude scores. The study findings highlight the need to implement a comprehensive approach to increasing Australian nursing students' pressure injury prevention and management knowledge, as well as ensuring that these students have adequate experiences in clinical units, with a high focus on pressure injury prevention to raise their personal capability. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Travel health risk perceptions and prevention behaviors of US study abroad students.

PubMed

Hartjes, Laurie B; Baumann, Linda C; Henriques, Jeffrey B

2009-01-01

The number of American study abroad students increased more than 150% in the past decade, along with growth in destinations with increased health risks. This study investigated travel health risk perceptions and prevention behaviors to guide interventions that address the emerging health needs of US study abroad students. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 318 American study abroad students using a Web-based survey. The primary source of travel health information was youth-oriented travel guidebooks (85%). The grand mean risk perception score for 18 travel health threats was 1.7 on a 1 to 4 scale, with top-rated threats being contaminated food/water, psychological distress, personal assault, and excessive sun exposure. Predeparture advice was received from primary care providers (52%) and travel health specialists (18%). Additional prevention measures were vaccines (42%) and medication (24%). Of 114 students listing their travel vaccinations, 11% described receiving a malaria vaccine and 4% a hepatitis C vaccine, although no such vaccines exist. Most respondents were confident/very confident in their ability to engage in prevention behaviors (94%). Health problems were primarily infectious disease (70%), psychological distress (10%), and injuries (8%). When asked if prior travel destinations involved areas where malaria transmission occurs, 20% responded, "Don't know." Identified gaps in travel health knowledge and prevention behaviors may produce hazardous consequences when combined with low-perceived risk, reliance on travel guidebooks for health information, and high ratings for prevention self-efficacy. Future research is needed to test the effectiveness of educational interventions designed for student travelers who would benefit from guided practice with destination-specific risk appraisal and prevention planning. Web-based educational resources are a good fit for this population because they are easily updated, available in all phases of

Influence of laser linewidth and polarization modulator length on polarization shift keying for free space optical communication.

PubMed

Han, Biao; Zhao, Wei; Xie, Xiaoping; Su, Yulong; Wang, Wei; Hu, Hui

2015-04-06

Modulating signal with polarization modulator (PolM) is the simplest method for polarization shift keying (PolSK) in free space optical communication. However, this method has an intrinsic drawback on degree of polarization (DOP) reduction for the existence of polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in PolM. In this work, we analyze this change of DOP and its influence on PolSK using coherency matrix. We demonstrate that the decrease of DOP after PolM will generate extra loss and bit error ratio (BER) for PolSK communication, while this loss and BER will aggravate with the increase of laser linewidth and PolM length. For a practical PolSK system, laser linewidth should be less than 0.008nm.

Pilot study of a smartphone-based intervention to promote cancer prevention behaviours.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Nuno; Moreira, Luís; Almeida, Ana Margarida Pisco; Santos-Silva, Filipe

2017-12-01

Estimates predict that more than half of all cancers are due to inadequate lifestyle choices. Smartphones can be successfully used to support the behaviour change needed to prevent cancer. The purpose of this study was to field-test Happy, a smartphone app designed to promote cancer prevention behaviours, based on tailored-messages. Thirty-two participants downloaded and used the app for 28 consecutive days (4 weeks). At the end of this period, they all answered an online questionnaire and ten of them were interviewed. Usability, feasibility, message receptivity, and perceived impact of the app were assessed. Compliance with cancer prevention guidelines was lower than expected. Happy was considered simple, intuitive and easy to use. Messages sent by the app were considered easy to understand, providing good advice and meaningful information that catch reader's attention. Participants also considered that Happy might be an effective way to promote cancer prevention. Collected data showed an increased frequency in several cancer prevention related behaviours and an increase in the overall putative cancer prevention level. This study showed the viability of designing and implementing smartphone-based interventions to promote cancer prevention behaviours. The results suggest that Happy is usable and might help users change their behaviour towards healthier choices and thus reduce their personal cancer risk. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of the contamination environment on surfaces and materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maag, Carl R.

1989-01-01

In addition to the issues that have always existed, demands are being placed on space systems for increased contamination prevention/control. Optical surveillance sensors are required to detect low radiance targets. This increases the need for very low scatter surfaces in the optical system. Particulate contamination levels typically experienced in today's working environments/habits will most likely compromise these sensors. Contamination (molecular and particulate) can also affect the survivability of space sensors in both the natural and hostile space environments. The effects of di-octyl phthalate (DOP) on sensors are discussed.

Implementation of pressure ulcer prevention best practice recommendations in acute care: an observational study.

PubMed

Barker, Anna Lucia; Kamar, Jeannette; Tyndall, Tamara Jane; White, Lyn; Hutchinson, Anastasia; Klopfer, Nicole; Weller, Carolina

2013-06-01

Pressure ulcers are a common but preventable problem in hospitals. Implementation of best practice guideline recommendations can prevent ulcers from occurring. This 9-year cohort study reports prevalence data from point prevalence surveys during the observation period, and three practice metrics to assess implementation of best practice guideline recommendations: (i) nurse compliance with use of a validated pressure ulcer risk assessment and intervention checklist; (ii) accuracy of risk assessment scoring in usual-care nurses and experienced injury prevention nurses; and (iii) use of pressure ulcer prevention strategies. The prevalence of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers decreased following implementation of an evidence-based prevention programme from 12·6% (2 years preprogramme implementation) to 2·6% (6 years postprogramme implementation) (P < 0·001). Audits between 2003 and 2011 of 4368 patient medical records identified compliance with pressure ulcer prevention documentation according to best practice guidelines was high (>84%). A sample of 270 patients formed the sample for the study of risk assessment scoring accuracy and use of prevention strategies. It was found usual-care nurses under-estimated patients' risk of pressure ulcer development and under-utilised prevention strategies compared with experienced injury prevention nurses. Despite a significant reduction in prevalence of hospital-acquired pressure ulcers and high documentation compliance, use of prevention strategies could further be improved to achieve better patient outcomes. Barriers to the use of prevention strategies by nurses in the acute hospital setting require further examination. This study provides important insights into the knowledge translation of pressure ulcer prevention best practice guideline recommendations at The Northern Hospital. © 2012 The Authors. International Wound Journal © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Medicalhelplines.com Inc.

Behavior of fluorinated analogs of L-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)alanine and L-threo-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)serine as substrates for Dopa decarboxylase.

PubMed

Borri Voltattorni, Carla; Bertoldi, Mariarita; Bianconi, Silvia; Deng, Wei-ping; Wong, Kelli; Kim, InHo; Herbert, Brian; Kirk, Kenneth L

2002-07-05

We have determined the kinetic parameters for Dopa decarboxylase (DDC) of three ring-fluorinated analogs of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (Dopa). The rank order of catalytic efficiency of decarboxylation (k(cat)/K(m)) is Dopa>6-F-Dopa>2-F-Dopa>5-F-Dopa. This rank is consistent with previous in vivo and in vitro studies which indicate that, of the fluorinated analogs, 6-F-Dopa has pharmacokinetics that are most suited for positron emission tomographic (PET) evaluation of dopamine function. The effectiveness of PET as a diagnostic tool, the convenient half-life of (18)F (110 min) and the favorable pharmacokinetics of 6-[(18)F]FDOPA have combined to make this an extremely valuable reagent to study dopaminergic activity. The reactions of the related fluorinated DOPS analogs show that, while 6-F-threo-3,4-(dihydroxyphenyl)serine (DOPS) is decarboxylated at approximately the same rate as the non-fluorinated substrate, 2-F-threo-DOPS is not converted into the corresponding amine. In both cases a Pictet-Spengler condensation with the pyridoxal 5(')-phosphate (PLP) cofactor occurs to produce tetrahydroisoquinolines. Condensation of fluorinated catecholamines and catechol amino acids with endogenous aldehydes will be investigated as an approach to study possible mechanisms of L-Dopa-linked neurotoxicity. (c) 2002 Elsevier Science (USA).

Deflation opening pressure of the eustachian tube.

PubMed

Cohen, D

1989-03-01

Measurements derived from tests of the performance of the eustachian tube (ET) under a variety of normal and pathologic conditions are widely diffuse and overlap considerably. In this survey, the deflation opening pressure (DOP) of the ET was tested in 31 patients suffering either from recurrent otitis (these patients had ventilating tubes inserted) or from chronic otitis media. Oxygen was deflated from the external ear canal, through the middle ear to the pharyngeal end of the ET. The DOP was the pressure needed for the passing of the oxygen. This pressure was usually between 100 to 200 mm H2O. No difference was found in the DOP between infants and adults or between discharging ears and dry ones. A second measurement was obtained through measuring the deflation flow pressure (DFP) required for the continuous passage of oxygen through the ET. The DFP was less than the DOP by approximately 20 to 60 mm H2O, and again no difference was noted between age groups or between infected and noninfected ears. It was concluded that DOP and DFP measurements of the ET are similar in a variety of conditions and therefore cannot indicate whether the ET is normally or abnormally functioning. The existence of a linear connection between the health of the ET and its performance is not proven; hence the role of the ET in predicting the likely outcome of tympanoplasty should be assessed within a different context.

A Systematic Review of Home-Based Childhood Obesity Prevention Studies

PubMed Central

Fawole, Oluwakemi; Segal, Jodi; Wilson, Renee F.; Cheskin, Lawrence J.; Bleich, Sara N.; Wu, Yang; Lau, Brandyn; Wang, Youfa

2013-01-01

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Childhood obesity is a global epidemic. Despite emerging research about the role of the family and home on obesity risk behaviors, the evidence base for the effectiveness of home-based interventions on obesity prevention remains uncertain. The objective was to systematically review the effectiveness of home-based interventions on weight, intermediate (eg, diet and physical activity [PA]), and clinical outcomes. METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, PsychInfo, CINAHL, clinicaltrials.gov, and the Cochrane Library from inception through August 11, 2012. We included experimental and natural experimental studies with ≥1-year follow-up reporting weight-related outcomes and targeting children at home. Two independent reviewers screened studies and extracted data. We graded the strength of the evidence supporting interventions targeting diet, PA, or both for obesity prevention. RESULTS: We identified 6 studies; 3 tested combined interventions (diet and PA), 1 used diet intervention, 1 combined intervention with primary care and consumer health informatics components, and 1 combined intervention with school and community components. Select combined interventions had beneficial effects on fruit/vegetable intake and sedentary behaviors. However, none of the 6 studies reported a significant effect on weight outcomes. Overall, the strength of evidence is low that combined home-based interventions effectively prevent obesity. The evidence is insufficient for conclusions about home-based diet interventions or interventions implemented at home in association with other settings. CONCLUSIONS: The strength of evidence is low to support the effectiveness of home-based child obesity prevention programs. Additional research is needed to test interventions in the home setting, particularly those incorporating parenting strategies and addressing environmental influences. PMID:23753095

Older People's Views of Advice about Falls Prevention: A Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yardley, L.; Donovan-Hall, M.; Francis, K.; Todd, C.

2006-01-01

The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of older people's perceptions of falls prevention advice, and how best to design communications that will encourage older people to take action to prevent falls. Focus groups and interviews were carried out with 66 people aged 61-94 years recruited from a variety of settings, using falls…

Update of the Preventive Antibiotics in Stroke Study (PASS): statistical analysis plan.

PubMed

Westendorp, Willeke F; Vermeij, Jan-Dirk; Dippel, Diederik W J; Dijkgraaf, Marcel G W; van der Poll, Tom; Prins, Jan M; Vermeij, Frederique H; Roos, Yvo B W E M; Brouwer, Matthijs C; Zwinderman, Aeilko H; van de Beek, Diederik; Nederkoorn, Paul J

2014-10-01

Infections occur in 30% of stroke patients and are associated with unfavorable outcomes. Preventive antibiotic therapy lowers the infection rate after stroke, but the effect of preventive antibiotic treatment on functional outcome in patients with stroke is unknown. The PASS is a multicenter, prospective, phase three, randomized, open-label, blinded end-point (PROBE) trial of preventive antibiotic therapy in acute stroke. Patients are randomly assigned to either ceftriaxone at a dose of 2 g, given every 24 h intravenously for 4 days, in addition to standard stroke-unit care, or standard stroke-unit care without preventive antibiotic therapy. The aim of this study is to assess whether preventive antibiotic treatment improves functional outcome at 3 months by preventing infections. This paper presents in detail the statistical analysis plan (SAP) of the Preventive Antibiotics in Stroke Study (PASS) and was submitted while the investigators were still blinded for all outcomes. The primary outcome is the score on the modified Rankin Scale (mRS), assessed by ordinal logistic regression analysis according to a proportional odds model. Secondary analysis of the primary outcome is the score on the mRS dichotomized as a favorable outcome (mRS 0 to 2) versus unfavorable outcome (mRS 3 to 6). Secondary outcome measures are death rate at discharge and 3 months, infection rate during hospital admission, length of hospital admission, volume of post-stroke care, use of antibiotics during hospital stay, quality-adjusted life years and costs. Complications of treatment, serious adverse events (SAEs) and suspected unexpected serious adverse reactions (SUSARs) are reported as safety outcomes. The data from PASS will establish whether preventive antibiotic therapy in acute stroke improves functional outcome by preventing infection and will be analyzed according to this pre-specified SAP. Current controlled trials; ISRCTN66140176. Date of registration: 6 April 2010.

Effect of ageing on the calibration of ballistic gelatin.

PubMed

Guey, Jason; Rodrigues, S; Pullen, A; Shaw, B; Kieser, D C

2018-02-27

Ballistic gelatin is commonly used as a validated surrogate for soft tissue during terminal ballistic testing. However, the effect of a delay between production and testing of a gelatin mould remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine any potential effects of ageing on ballistic gelatin. Depth of penetration (DoP) of 4.5 mm spherical fragment simulating projectiles was ascertained using mixtures of 10%, 11.25% and 20% Type A 250 Bloom ballistic gelatin. Testing was performed daily for 5 days using velocities between 75 and 210 m/s. DoP at day 5 was statistically compared with day 1, and net mass change was recorded daily. No significant difference was found for DoP observed with time in any of the samples (P>0.05). Spearman correlation was excellent in all moulds. The moulds with known standard calibrations remained in calibration throughout the study period. Mass loss of less than 1% was noted in all samples. Mass loss was the only quantifiable measure of changes in the blocks with time, but did not correlate with any changes in DoP. This may provide reassurance when undertaking such testing that an inadvertent delay will not significantly alter the penetration properties of the mould. Future research is recommended to determine any potential effect on the mechanical properties of gelatin at higher velocity impacts and whether the calibration corresponds to an adequate simulation under such conditions. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

Phosphorus export during storm events from a human perturbed watershed, southeast China: Implications for coastal ecology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Nengwang; Wu, Yinqi; Chen, Zhuhong; Hong, Huasheng

2015-12-01

Understanding how major storms impact riverine nutrient export to estuaries and the coastal region is crucial in the context of increasing anthropogenic climate and environmental perturbation. In this study, the effects of major storms on river phosphorus (P) were investigated in an agricultural river (SE China), through continuous sampling of dissolved and particulate P during the three largest storm events (A-C) in 2013. There was a major increase in the total P load (3.4-16 fold compared with baseflow). The event mean concentration of storm A was the highest likely due to the first flush effect mobilizing accumulated waste. The flux of DOP and DRP was controlled by discharge as DOP in storm B and DRP in storm C with a relatively simple hysteresis effect with higher fluxes on the rising limb being diluted by rainfall on the falling limb. DOP in storm B remained relatively constant due to delay in DOP flushed from upstream areas balancing dilution by rainfall down stream. DRP in storm C also remained relatively constant caused by successive release of soil DRP to the river from previous unsaturated surface layers. TPP export was greatest towards the early to high stages of the storm events suggesting that most of the eroded sediment and resuspended sediment-bound P are exported during the early stages of the storm. The total flux of P is elevated in watersheds with high levels of human perturbation while climate change is predicted to increase the frequency of major storms. The results of this study are important in predicting the ecosystem response of estuarine and coastal regions to major storms in the riverine catchment area.

The effect of Mg dopants on magnetic and structural properties of iron oxide and zinc ferrite thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saritaş, Sevda; Ceviz Sakar, Betul; Kundakci, Mutlu; Yildirim, Muhammet

2018-06-01

Iron oxide thin films have been obtained significant interest as a material that put forwards applications in photovoltaics, gas sensors, biosensors, optoelectronic and especially in spintronics. Iron oxide is one of the considerable interest due to its chemical and thermal stability. Metallic ion dopant influenced superexchange interactions and thus changed the structural, electrical and magnetic properties of the thin film. Mg dopped zinc ferrite (Mg:ZnxFe3-xO4) crystal was used to avoid the damage of Fe3O4 (magnetite) crystal instead of Zn2+ in this study. Because the radius of the Mg2+ ion in the A-site (tetrahedral) is almost equal to that of the replaced Fe3+ ion. Inverse-spinel structure in which oxygen ions (O2-) are arranged to form a face-centered cubic (FCC) lattice where there are two kinds of sublattices, namely, A-site and B-site (octahedral) interstitial sites and in which the super exchange interactions occur. In this study, to increase the saturation of magnetization (Ms) value for iron oxide, inverse-spinal ferrite materials have been prepared, in which the iron oxide was doped by multifarious divalent metallic elements including Zn and Mg. Triple and quaternary; iron oxide and zinc ferrite thin films with Mg metal dopants were grown by using Spray Pyrolysis (SP) technique. The structural, electrical and magnetic properties of Mg dopped iron oxide (Fe2O3) and zinc ferrite (ZnxFe3-xO4) thin films have been investigated. Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) technique was used to study for the magnetic properties. As a result, we can say that Mg dopped iron oxide thin film has huge diamagnetic and of Mg dopped zinc ferrite thin film has paramagnetic property at bigger magnetic field.

Health promotion and prevention in higher music education: results of a longitudinal study.

PubMed

Zander, Mark F; Voltmer, Edgar; Spahn, Claudia

2010-06-01

Music-related symptoms can already be found among student musicians during their years of university training. The goals of the present study were to ascertain the state and developmental course of the student musicians' health and to test the effectiveness of a preventive curriculum given to student musicians during their first two semesters at university. Within a longitudinal, observational study, we assessed students' psychological and physical health during the first 2 years of university training. We compared data from the group of students who had followed the prevention program (intervention group, IG, n = 144) with data of a comparison group (CG, n = 103) of students who had not followed the program. Using standardized questionnaires, we measured physical and psychological symptoms as well as health behavior in a sequential plan (duration, 3.5 yrs). Student musicians (n = 247) showed elevated ratings in psychological and physical health in comparison with nonmusicians of the same age. These ratings decreased at the end of the students' second year. The prevention program had a preventive effect on the students' psychological health: while IG students remained stable in their performance and powers of concentration, CG students got worse in those same areas. However, the prevention program did not reduce physical symptoms. In comparison with their younger colleagues, upper-level students took more courses in body-oriented methods, relaxation, and mental techniques, which focus on preventive measures for musicians. At present, the study offers evidence supporting the use of the prevention curriculum for young musicians. In higher music education, preventive education has a positive impact on students' performance and their attitude toward health. The preventive curriculum does not have an effect on preexisting physical symptoms, and those symptoms related to the students musicians' activity should rather be treated in an additional therapeutic setting.

The IDEFICS intervention trial to prevent childhood obesity: Design and study methods

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

One of the major research dimensions of the Identification and prevention of Dietary- and lifestyle-induced health EFfects In Children and infantS (IDEFICS) study involved the development, implementation and evaluation of a setting-based community-oriented intervention program for primary prevention...

"Greenlight study": a controlled trial of low-literacy, early childhood obesity prevention.

PubMed

Sanders, Lee M; Perrin, Eliana M; Yin, H Shonna; Bronaugh, Andrea; Rothman, Russell L

2014-06-01

Children who become overweight by age 2 years have significantly greater risks of long-term health problems, and children in low-income communities, where rates of low adult literacy are highest, are at increased risk of developing obesity. The objective of the Greenlight Intervention Study is to assess the effectiveness of a low-literacy, primary-care intervention on the reduction of early childhood obesity. At 4 primary-care pediatric residency training sites across the US, 865 infant-parent dyads were enrolled at the 2-month well-child checkup and are being followed through the 24-month well-child checkup. Two sites were randomly assigned to the intervention, and the other sites were assigned to an attention-control arm, implementing the American Academy of Pediatrics' The Injury Prevention Program. The intervention consists of an interactive educational toolkit, including low-literacy materials designed for use during well-child visits, and a clinician-centered curriculum for providing low-literacy guidance on obesity prevention. The study is powered to detect a 10% difference in the number of children overweight (BMI > 85%) at 24 months. Other outcome measures include observed physician-parent communication, as well as parent-reported information on child dietary intake, physical activity, and injury-prevention behaviors. The study is designed to inform evidence-based standards for early childhood obesity prevention, and more generally to inform optimal approaches for low-literacy messages and health literacy training in primary preventive care. This article describes the conceptual model, study design, intervention content, and baseline characteristics of the study population. Copyright © 2014 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Preventive maintenance study : interim report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-09-01

This interim report details the performance of 69 test sites treated with various preventive maintenance treatments. The maintenance treatments applied included crack sealing, full lane chip sealing, wheel path chip sealing, dig outs (mill and fill),...

A descriptive study of baccalaureate nursing students' responses to suicide prevention education.

PubMed

Pullen, Julie M; Gilje, Fredricka; Tesar, Emily

2016-01-01

Internationally, little is known regarding the amount of educational content on suicide in undergraduate nursing curriculum. The literature conducted found few published research studies on implementation of suicide prevention instruction in baccalaureate nursing curriculum, even though various international healthcare and nursing initiatives address suicide prevention. The aim was to describe senior baccalaureate students' responses to an evidence-based suicide prevention gatekeeper training program entitled Question-Persuade-Refer implemented in a required course. This is a multi-method descriptive study. Data were collected utilizing a pre-post-survey questionnaire administered to 150 students in four classes of a psychiatric nursing course over a two-year period. The quantitative data were statistically significant (p < 0.000) indicating an overall positive rating of the training. From the qualitative data, the main theme was 'becoming capable intervening with persons at risk for suicide'. Students responded very positively to the evidence based suicide prevention gatekeeper training program. The instruction addresses various national initiatives and strategies filling a void in nursing curriculum, as well as empowering students to engage in suicide prevention interventions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Violence Prevention in Middle School: A Preliminary Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

KIllam, Wendy K.; Roland, Catherine B.; Weber, Bill

2014-01-01

Violence in schools continues reflecting violence within society. There is a growing need for violence prevention programs within the schools that provide students with the skills needed to cope with interpersonal and relationship is-sues effectively. This study was conducted at a middle school and there were 345 middle school students (6th to 8th…

POLLUTION PREVENTION CASE STUDIES: LOW-VOC/HAP WOOD FURNITURE COATINGS

EPA Science Inventory

This article provides a brief profile of the wood furniture industry, discusses pollution prevention activities typically implemented, describes the four low-VOC/HAP coating technologies studied. and summarizes one case study for each of the low-VOC/HAP coating yechnologies inves...

Tailored Communications for Obesity Prevention in Pediatric Primary Care: A Feasibility Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wright, Julie A.; Whiteley, Jessica A.; Watson, Bonnie L.; Sheinfeld Gorin, Sherri N.; Hayman, Laura L.

2018-01-01

Recommendations for the prevention of childhood obesity encourage providers to counsel parents and their children on healthy diet and activity behaviors. This study evaluated the feasibility of a theory-based, tailored communication intervention for obesity prevention ("Team Up for Health") delivered during a well-child visit. A…

Assessing the Role of Dissolved Organic Phosphate on Rates of Microbial Phosphorus Cycling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gonzalez, A. C.; Popendorf, K. J.; Duhamel, S.

2016-02-01

Phosphorus (P) is an element crucial to life, and it is limiting in many parts of the ocean. In oligotrophic environments, the dissolved P pool is cycled rapidly through the activity of microbes, with turnover times of several hours or less. The overarching aim of this study was to assess the flux of P from picoplankton to the dissolved pool and the role this plays in fueling rapid P cycling. To determine if specific microbial groups are responsible for significant return of P to the dissolved pool during cell lifetime, we compared the rate of cellular P turnover (cell-Pτ, the rate of cellular P uptake divided by cellular P content) to the rate of cellular biomass turnover (cellτ). High rates of P return to the dissolved pool during cell lifetime (high cell-Pτ/cellτ) indicate significant P regeneration, fueling more rapid turnover of the dissolved P pool. We hypothesized that cell-Pτ/cellτ varies widely across picoplankton groups. One factor influencing this variation may be each microbial group's relative uptake of dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) versus dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP). As extracellular hydrolysis is necessary for P incorporation from DOP, this process may return more P to the dissolved pool than DIP incorporation. This leads to the question: does a picoplankton's relative uptake of DOP (versus DIP) affect the rate at which it returns phosphorus to the dissolved pool? To address this question, we compared the rate of cellular P turnover based on uptake of DOP and uptake DIP using cultured representatives of three environmentally significant picoplankton groups: Prochlorococcus, Synechococcus, and heterotrophic bacteria. These different picoplankton groups are known to take up different ratios of DOP to DIP, and may in turn make significantly different contributions to the regeneration and cycling phosphorus. These findings have implications towards our understanding of the timeframes of biogeochemical cycling of phosphorus in the

Anti-tobacco policy in schools: upcoming preventive strategy or prevention myth? A review of 31 studies.

PubMed

Galanti, Maria Rosaria; Coppo, Alessandro; Jonsson, Elin; Bremberg, Sven; Faggiano, Fabrizio

2014-07-01

To summarise the evidence on effectiveness of school anti-tobacco policies (exposure) in preventing tobacco use (outcome) among high school students. The search was conducted between 1 September and 30 November 2011 on six electronic databases with keywords: 'policy', 'ban', 'restriction' and 'environment' in combination with 'adolescent' or 'student', 'school' and 'smoking' in titles, abstracts or keywords. Restrictions were made to articles published in English. Studies were included if they targeted the relevant grades/age; reported at least one outcome measure of students' ever or current tobacco use; reported on the effects of exposure to policy separately from other interventions. Inclusion criteria were assessed independently by two of the coauthors. Of 2723 articles initially identified, 31 articles met the inclusion criteria (1.1%). Independent multiple observers extracted the data following the GRADE system guidelines to classify the level of evidence in relation to the review objective. Studies were very heterogeneous in the definitions of exposure to school anti-tobacco policy and of tobacco use, adjustment for potential confounders and reporting of results, therefore summary quantitative measures of effect were not calculated. Qualitative summary statements were derived by reviewing the results reported in text and tables for distinct policy constructs. Evidence could be classified as low or very low, resting on cross-sectional studies with high risk of bias. Studies were rather consistent in indicating that comprehensive smoking bans, clear rules, strict policy enforcement, availability of education and prevention were associated with decreased smoking prevalence. Formally adopted and written policies, surveillance of students' behaviour and presence/severity of sanctions were not consistently associated to students' tobacco use. The evidence concerning the effectiveness of a school policy alone in preventing youth tobacco use is weak and inconclusive

Characterization of osseointegrative phosphatidylserine and cholesterol orthopaedic implant coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodgers, William Paul, III

Total joint arthroplasties are one of the most successful surgeries available today for improving patients' quality of life. Increasing demand is driven largely by an ageing population and an increased occurrence of obesity. Current patient options have significant shortcomings. Nearly a third of patients require a revision surgery before the implant is 15 years old, and those who have revision surgeries are at an increased risk of requiring additional reoperations. A recent implant technology that has shown to be effective at improving bone to implant integration is the use of phosphatidylserine (DOPS) coatings. These coatings are challenging to analyze and measure due to their highly dynamic, soft, rough, thick, and optically diffractive properties. Previous work had difficulty investigating pertinent parameters for these coating's development due in large part to a lack of available analytical techniques and a dearth of understanding of the micro- and nano-structural configuration of the coatings. This work addresses the lack of techniques available for use with DOPS coatings through the development of original methods of measurement, including the use of scanning white light interferometry and nanoindentation. These techniques were then applied for the characterization of DOPS coatings and the study of effects from several factors: 1. influence of adding calcium and cholesterol to the coatings, 2. effects of composition and roughness on aqueous contact angles, and 3. impact of ageing and storage environment on the coatings. Using these newly developed, highly repeatable quantitative analysis methods, this study sheds light on the microstructural configuration of the DOPS coatings and elucidates previously unexplained phenomena of the coatings. Cholesterol was found to supersaturate in the coatings at high concentration and phase separate into an anhydrous crystalline form, while lower concentrations were found to significantly harden the coatings. Morphological

Chemical properties and antioxidant activity of a water-soluble polysaccharide from Dendrobium officinale.

PubMed

Luo, Qiu-Lian; Tang, Zhuan-Hui; Zhang, Xue-Feng; Zhong, Yong-Hong; Yao, Su-Zhi; Wang, Li-Sheng; Lin, Cui-Wu; Luo, Xuan

2016-08-01

In this report, a water-soluble polysaccharide was obtained from the dried stems of Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo by hot-water (70-75°C) extraction and 85% ethanol precipitation, and successively purification by DEAE-cellulose anion-exchange chromatography and gel-permeation chromatography. The D. officinale polysaccharide (DOP) has a molecular weight of 8500Da. Monosaccharide composition analysis reveals that DOP is composed of mannose, glucose, and arabinose with a trace of galacturonic acid in a molar ratio of 6.2:2.3:2.1:0.1. Periodate oxidation-smith degradation and 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy analysis suggest the predominance of mannose and glucose, and it contains a 2-O-acetylglucomannan and (1→4)-linked-β-d-mannopyranosyl and (1→4)-linked-β-d-glucopyranosyl residues. Atomic force microscope shows that DOP mainly exists as rod-shaped chains, supporting high degrees of polymerization. The antioxidant activities of the polysaccharide in vitro assay indicate that DOP has good scavenging activity of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, higher scavenging activity of hydroxyl radical, and metal chelating activities. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Post-acute crisis text messaging outreach for suicide prevention: a pilot study.

PubMed

Berrouiguet, Sofian; Gravey, Michel; Le Galudec, Mickaël; Alavi, Zarrin; Walter, Michel

2014-07-30

Several post-suicide prevention strategies such as sending postcards or making phone calls have been used to keep in contact with suicide attempters. The continuity of care has been beneficial to the prevention of post-acute suicidal behaviors. The aim of the study was to evaluate the technical feasibility and acceptability of text messaging outreach in post-acute suicide attempters. Eighteen post-suicidal patients were included in a prospective, monocentric, open-label, 2 months pilot study. The text messages were sent from the intranet program that we specially developed for the study. Technical feasibility of this text message intervention was evaluated by the analysis of text message reports. Acceptability of such intervention was evaluated by a standardized phone interview. Our study showed that receiving text messages sent from an intranet program after a suicide attempt is technically possible. This post-crisis outreach program was accepted by the patients who found it to have a positive preventive impact. Text messaging outreach offers several advantages such as lower cost, and easier utilization compared to current post-acute care strategies. We suggest further randomized controlled trials in a large sample of suicidal patients to assess the efficacy of this novel outreach tool for prevention of post-acute suicide. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Teachers' Perspectives on Preventing Suicide in Children and Adolescents in Schools: A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Ross, Victoria; Kõlves, Kairi; De Leo, Diego

2017-07-03

Given the important role teachers play as gatekeepers in school suicide prevention, this study explored teachers' perspectives on what should be done to improve current suicide prevention efforts. The study, in Queensland, Australia, was part of a large-scale survey examining teachers' knowledge, attitudes and experience of suicidality. One hundred and fifteen teachers responded to an online survey question regarding their views on the requirements for school suicide prevention. Qualitative analysis identified five themes from teachers' responses: awareness and stigma reduction, support services for students, education and training, bullying and the role of social media. The results of this study provide some profound insights into teachers' perspectives on suicide and highlight the critical need for improved suicide prevention efforts in schools.

Mechanical Stress in InP Structures Etched in an Inductively Coupled Plasma Reactor with Ar/Cl2/CH4 Plasma Chemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Landesman, Jean-Pierre; Cassidy, Daniel T.; Fouchier, Marc; Pargon, Erwine; Levallois, Christophe; Mokhtari, Merwan; Jimenez, Juan; Torres, Alfredo

2018-02-01

We investigated the crystal lattice deformation that can occur during the etching of structures in bulk InP using SiNx hard masks with Ar/Cl2/CH4 chemistries in an inductively coupled plasma reactor. Two techniques were used: degree of polarization (DOP) of the photo-luminescence, which gives information on the state of mechanical stress present in the structures, and spectrally resolved cathodo-luminescence (CL) mapping. This second technique also provides elements on the mechanical stress in the samples through analysis of the spectral shift of the CL intrinsic emission lines. Preliminary DOP mapping experiments have been conducted on the SiNx hard mask patterns without etching the underlying InP. This preliminary study demonstrated the potential of DOP to map mechanical stress quantitatively in the structures. In a second step, InP patterns with various widths between 1 μm and 20 μm, and various depths between 1 μm and 6 μm, were analyzed by the 2 techniques. DOP measurements were made both on the (100) top surface of the samples and on the (110) cleaved cross section. CL measurements were made only from the (100) surface. We observed that inside the etched features, close to the vertical etched walls, there is always some compressive deformation, while it is tensile just outside the etched features. The magnitude of these effects depends on the lateral and depth dimensions of the etched structures, and on the separation between them (the tensile deformation increases between them due to some kind of proximity effect when separation decreases).

Export of dissolved organic matter in relation to land use along a European climatic gradient.

PubMed

Mattsson, Tuija; Kortelainen, Pirkko; Laubel, Anker; Evans, Dylan; Pujo-Pay, Mireille; Räike, Antti; Conan, Pascal

2009-03-01

The terrestrial export of dissolved organic matter (DOM) is associated with climate, vegetation and land use, and thus is under the influence of climatic variability and human interference with terrestrial ecosystems, their soils and hydrological cycles. We present a data-set including catchments from four areas covering the major climate and land use gradients within Europe: a forested boreal zone (Finland), a temperate agricultural area (Denmark), a wet and temperate mountain region in Wales, and a warm Mediterranean catchment draining into the Gulf of Lyon. In all study areas, DOC (dissolved organic carbon) was a major fraction of DOM, with much lower proportions of DON (dissolved organic nitrogen) and DOP (dissolved organic phosphorus). A south-north gradient with highest DOC concentrations and export in the northernmost catchments was recorded: DOC concentrations and loads were highest in Finland and lowest in France. These relationships indicate that DOC concentrations/export are controlled by several factors including wetland and forest cover, precipitation and hydrological processes. DON concentrations and loads were highest in the Danish catchments and lowest in the French catchments. In Wales and Finland, DON concentrations increased with the increasing proportion of agricultural land in the catchment, whereas in Denmark and France no such relationship was found. DOP concentrations and loads were low compared to DOC and DON. The highest DOP concentrations and loads were recorded in catchments with a high extent of agricultural land, large urban areas or a high population density, reflecting the influence of human impact on DOP loads.

Multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial evaluating implementation of a fire prevention Injury Prevention Briefing in children's centres: study protocol.

PubMed

Deave, Toity; Towner, Elizabeth; McColl, Elaine; Reading, Richard; Sutton, Alex; Coupland, Carol; Cooper, Nicola; Stewart, Jane; Hayes, Mike; Pitchforth, Emma; Watson, Michael; Kendrick, Denise

2014-01-22

The UK has one of the highest fatality rates for deaths from fire-related injuries in children aged 0-14 years; these injuries have the steepest social gradient of all injuries in the UK. Children's centres provide children under five years old and their families with a range of services and information, including home safety, but their effectiveness in promoting injury prevention has yet to be evaluated. We developed a fire prevention intervention for use in children's centres comprising an Injury Prevention Briefing (IPB) which provides evidence on what works and best practice from those running injury prevention programmes, and a facilitation package to support implementation of the IPB. This protocol describes the design and methods of a trial evaluating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the IPB and facilitation package in promoting fire prevention. Pragmatic, multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial, with a nested qualitative study, in four study centres in England. Children's centres in the most disadvantaged areas will be eligible to participate and will be randomised to one of three treatment arms comprising: IPB with facilitation package; IPB with no facilitation package; usual care (control). The primary outcome measure will be the proportion of families who have a fire escape plan at follow-up. Eleven children's centres per arm are required to detect an absolute difference in the percentage of families with a fire escape plan of 20% in either of the two intervention arms compared with the control arm, with 80% power and a 5% significance level (2-sided), an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.05 and assuming outcomes are assessed on 20 families per children's centre. Secondary outcomes include the assessment of the cost-effectiveness of the intervention, other fire safety behaviours and factors associated with degree of implementation of the IPB. This will be the first trial to develop and evaluate a fire prevention intervention for

Nurses' perceptions of a pressure ulcer prevention care bundle: a qualitative descriptive study.

PubMed

Roberts, Shelley; McInnes, Elizabeth; Wallis, Marianne; Bucknall, Tracey; Banks, Merrilyn; Chaboyer, Wendy

2016-01-01

Pressure ulcer prevention is a critical patient safety indicator for acute care hospitals. An innovative pressure ulcer prevention care bundle targeting patient participation in their care was recently tested in a cluster randomised trial in eight Australian hospitals. Understanding nurses' perspectives of such an intervention is imperative when interpreting results and translating evidence into practice. As part of a process evaluation for the main trial, this study assessed nurses' perceptions of the usefulness and impact of a pressure ulcer prevention care bundle intervention on clinical practice. This qualitative descriptive study involved semi-structured interviews with nursing staff at four Australian hospitals that were intervention sites for a cluster randomised trial testing a pressure ulcer prevention care bundle. Four to five participants were purposively sampled at each site. A trained interviewer used a semi-structured interview guide to question participants about their perceptions of the care bundle. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Eighteen nurses from four hospitals participated in the study. Nurses' perceptions of the intervention are described in five themes: 1) Awareness of the pressure ulcer prevention care bundle and its similarity to current practice; 2) Improving awareness, communication and participation with the pressure ulcer prevention care bundle; 3) Appreciating the positive aspects of patient participation in care; 4) Perceived barriers to engaging patients in the pressure ulcer prevention care bundle; and 5) Partnering with nursing staff to facilitate pressure ulcer prevention care bundle implementation. Overall, nurses found the care bundle feasible and acceptable. They identified a number of benefits from the bundle, including improved communication, awareness and participation in pressure ulcer prevention care among patients and staff. However, nurses thought the care bundle was

Longitudinal, 3D Imaging of Collagen Remodeling in Murine Hypertrophic Scars In Vivo using Polarization-sensitive Optical Frequency Domain Imaging

PubMed Central

Lo, William C. Y.; Villiger, Martin; Golberg, Alexander; Broelsch, G. Felix; Khan, Saiqa; Lian, Christine G.; Austen, William G.; Yarmush, Martin; Bouma, Brett E.

2016-01-01

Hypertrophic scars (HTS), frequently seen after traumatic injuries and surgery, remain a major clinical challenge due to the limited success of existing therapies. A significant obstacle to understanding HTS etiology is the lack of tools to monitor scar remodeling longitudinally and non-invasively. We present an in vivo, label-free technique using polarization-sensitive optical frequency domain imaging (PS-OFDI) for the 3D, longitudinal assessment of collagen remodeling in murine HTS. In this study, HTS was induced with a mechanical tension device for 4 to 10 days on incisional wounds and imaged up to one month after device removal; an excisional HTS model was also imaged at 6 months after injury to investigate deeper and more mature scars. We showed that local retardation (LR) and degree of polarization (DOP) provide a robust signature for HTS. Compared to normal skin with heterogeneous LR and low DOP, HTS was characterized by an initially low LR, which increased as collagen fibers remodeled, and a persistently high DOP. This study demonstrates that PS-OFDI offers a powerful tool to gain significant biological insights into HTS remodeling by enabling longitudinal assessment of collagen in vivo, which is critical to elucidating HTS etiology and developing more effective HTS therapies. PMID:26763427

On the interaction of the highly charged peptides casocidins with biomimetic membranes.

PubMed

Becucci, Lucia; Aloisi, Giovanni; Scaloni, Andrea; Caira, Simonetta; Guidelli, Rolando

2018-04-19

Casocidin I and II (CI and CII) are structurally related antimicrobial peptides made of 39 and 31 amino acids, respectively, which derive from natural proteolytic processing of α s2 -casein and adopt an ordered α-helical structure in biomimetic membranes. Their putative membrane-permeabilizing activity was investigated at Hg-supported self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) and at tethered bilayer lipid membranes (tBLMs); the latter consisted of a monolayer of 2,3,di-O-phytanyl-sn-glycerol-1-tetraethylene-glycol-d,l-α lipoic acid ester thiolipid (DPTL), with a dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) or dioleoylphosphatidylserine (DOPS) monolayer on top of it. Interaction of CI and CII with these biomimetic membranes was studied by four electrochemical techniques at pH 3, 5.4 and 6.8. Peptide incorporation in tBLMs was attempted via scans of electrochemical impedance spectra. Experiments demonstrated that CI and CII penetrate SAMs as well as the distal DOPC monolayer of DPTL/DOPC tBLMs, but not the proximal phytanyl monolayer, with the only exception of CII at pH 5.4. Conversely, CII permeabilized DPTL/DOPS tBLMs to a moderate extent at all investigated pH values by forming holes across the membrane, but not ion channels. Structural distribution of charged residues seemed to prevent CII from having a hydrophobic side of the α-helix capable of stabilizing a regular ion channel in the lipid matrix. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Model Dropout Prevention Program at Reidsville Middle School: A Case Study Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Sullivan, Rita G.

This case study describes a 2-year (1988-90) demonstration dropout prevention program, a collaboration between a rural school and a university. The dropout prevention program attempts to identify effective teaching strategies that will increase the academic successes of at-risk sixth-grade students and expand the use of those strategies among the…

Radiation resistant polypropylene blended with mobilizer,. antioxidants and nucleating agent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shamshad, A.; Basfar, A. A.

2000-03-01

Post-irradiation storage of medical disposables prepared from isotactic polypropylene renders them brittle due to degradation. To avoid this, isotactic polypropylene [(is)PP] was blended with a mobilizer, dioctyl pthallate (DOP), three antioxidants (hindered amines and a secondary antioxidant) and benzoic acid to obtain radiation-resistant, thermally-stable and transparent material. Different formulations prepared were subjected to gamma radiation to doses of 25 and 50 kGy. Tests of breakage on bending after ageing in an oven at 70°C up to 12 months have shown that the addition of DOP and the antioxidants imparts improved radiation and thermal stability as compared to (is)PP alone or its blend with DOP. All the formulations irradiated or otherwise demonstrated excellent colour stability even after accelerated ageing at 70°C for prolonged periods.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Song, Bo; Nelson, Kevin; Jin, Helena

Iridium alloys have been utilized as structural materials for certain high-temperature applications, due to their superior strength and ductility at elevated temperatures. The mechanical properties, including failure response at high strain rates and elevated temperatures of the iridium alloys need to be characterized to better understand high-speed impacts at elevated temperatures. A DOP-26 iridium alloy has been dynamically characterized in compression at elevated temperatures with high-temperature Kolsky compression bar techniques. However, the dynamic high-temperature compression tests were not able to provide sufficient dynamic high-temperature failure information of the iridium alloy. In this study, we modified current room-temperature Kolsky tension barmore » techniques for obtaining dynamic tensile stress-strain curves of the DOP-26 iridium alloy at two different strain rates (~1000 and ~3000 s-1) and temperatures (~750°C and ~1030°C). The effects of strain rate and temperature on the tensile stress-strain response of the iridium alloy were determined. The DOP-26 iridium alloy exhibited high ductility in stress-strain response that strongly depended on both strain rate and temperature.« less

Effectiveness of peer education interventions for HIV prevention, adolescent pregnancy prevention and sexual health promotion for young people: a systematic review of European studies.

PubMed

Tolli, M V

2012-10-01

Peer education remains a popular strategy for health promotion and prevention, but evidence of its effectiveness is still limited. This article presents a systematic review of peer education interventions in the European Union that were published between January 1999 and May 2010. The objective of the review is to determine the effectiveness of peer education programs for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention, adolescent pregnancy prevention and promotion of sexual health among young people. Standardized methods of searching and data extraction were utilized and five studies were identified. Although a few statistically significant and non-significant changes were observed in the studies, it is concluded that, overall, when compared to standard practice or no intervention, there is no clear evidence of the effectiveness of peer education concerning HIV prevention, adolescent pregnancy prevention and sexual health promotion for young people in the member countries of the European Union. Further research is needed to determine factors that contribute to program effectiveness.

Guidelines for a cancer prevention smartphone application: A mixed-methods study.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Nuno; Moreira, Luís; Barros, Ana; Almeida, Ana Margarida; Santos-Silva, Filipe

2016-10-01

This study sought to explore the views and experiences of healthy young adults concerning the fundamental features of a cancer prevention smartphone app that seeks behaviour change. Three focus groups were conducted with 16 healthy young adults that explored prior experiences, points of view and opinions about currently available health-related smartphone apps. Then, an online questionnaire was designed and applied to a larger sample of healthy young adults. Focus group and online questionnaire data were analysed and confronted. Study results identified behaviour tracking, goal setting, tailored information and use of reminders as the most desired features in a cancer prevention app. Participants highlighted the importance of privacy and were reluctant to share personal health information with other users. The results also point out important dimensions to be considered for long-term use of health promotion apps related with usability and perceived usefulness. Participants didn't consider gamification features as important dimensions for long-term use of apps. This study allowed the definition of a guideline set for the development of a cancer prevention app. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

A multicenter qualitative study on preventing hospital-acquired urinary tract infection in US hospitals.

PubMed

Saint, Sanjay; Kowalski, Christine P; Forman, Jane; Damschroder, Laura; Hofer, Timothy P; Kaufman, Samuel R; Creswell, John W; Krein, Sarah L

2008-04-01

Although urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common hospital-acquired infection, there is little information about why hospitals use or do not use a range of available preventive practices. We thus conducted a multicenter study to understand better how US hospitals approach the prevention of hospital-acquired UTI. This research is part of a larger study employing both quantitative and qualitative methods. The qualitative phase consisted of 38 semistructured phone interviews with key personnel at 14 purposefully sampled US hospitals and 39 in-person interviews at 5 of those 14 hospitals, to identify recurrent and unifying themes that characterize how hospitals have addressed hospital-acquired UTI. Four recurrent themes emerged from our study data. First, although preventing hospital-acquired UTI was a low priority for most hospitals, there was substantial recognition of the value of early removal of a urinary catheter for patients. Second, those hospitals that made UTI prevention a high priority also focused on noninfectious complications and had committed advocates, or "champions," who facilitated prevention activities. Third, hospital-specific pilot studies were important in deciding whether or not to use devices such as antimicrobial-impregnated catheters. Finally, external forces, such as public reporting, influenced UTI surveillance and infection prevention activities. Clinicians and policy makers can use our findings to develop initiatives that, for example, use a champion to promote the removal of unnecessary urinary catheters or exploit external forces, such public reporting, to enhance patient safety.

Case-control study on the prevention of occupational eye injuries.

PubMed

Ho, Chi-Kung; Yen, Ya-Lin; Chang, Cheng-Hsien; Chiang, Hung-Che; Shen, Ying-Ying; Chang, Po-Ya

2008-01-01

The risk factors for occupational eye injuries have never been published in Taiwan. We conducted a case-control study to analyze the differences among workers on their knowledge, attitude to and practice (KAP) of occupational accident prevention. In the study, a statistical model was also set up for predicting the occupational problem. Subjects, including 31 cases of work-related eye injuries and 62 controls, completed a structured questionnaire on KAP, which revealed that 80.6% and 62.7% of workers in the case and control groups, respectively, did not wear eye protection during work. Furthermore, we found that temporary employment (OR, 10.7; 95% CI, 3.03-36.16) and fewer than 10 years of education (OR, 4.44; 95% CI, 1.73-11.44) were the major risk factors for occupational eye injuries. In addition, we developed a logistic regression model with four predictors (temporary employment, education years less than 10, poor management of industrial health and safety in the workplace, and poor attitude towards accident prevention) for the occurrence of occupational eye injuries. In conclusion, in Taiwan, compulsory regulation of wearing eye protection during work, good education, management of work safety and hygiene and employee (especially temporary worker) commitment to safety and health are strongly recommended prevention strategies.

Multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial evaluating implementation of a fire prevention Injury Prevention Briefing in children’s centres: study protocol

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The UK has one of the highest fatality rates for deaths from fire-related injuries in children aged 0–14 years; these injuries have the steepest social gradient of all injuries in the UK. Children’s centres provide children under five years old and their families with a range of services and information, including home safety, but their effectiveness in promoting injury prevention has yet to be evaluated. We developed a fire prevention intervention for use in children’s centres comprising an Injury Prevention Briefing (IPB) which provides evidence on what works and best practice from those running injury prevention programmes, and a facilitation package to support implementation of the IPB. This protocol describes the design and methods of a trial evaluating the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the IPB and facilitation package in promoting fire prevention. Methods/Design Pragmatic, multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial, with a nested qualitative study, in four study centres in England. Children’s centres in the most disadvantaged areas will be eligible to participate and will be randomised to one of three treatment arms comprising: IPB with facilitation package; IPB with no facilitation package; usual care (control). The primary outcome measure will be the proportion of families who have a fire escape plan at follow-up. Eleven children’s centres per arm are required to detect an absolute difference in the percentage of families with a fire escape plan of 20% in either of the two intervention arms compared with the control arm, with 80% power and a 5% significance level (2-sided), an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.05 and assuming outcomes are assessed on 20 families per children’s centre. Secondary outcomes include the assessment of the cost-effectiveness of the intervention, other fire safety behaviours and factors associated with degree of implementation of the IPB. Discussion This will be the first trial to

Robotic Surgery Readiness (RSR): A Prospective Randomized Skills Decay Recognition and Prevention Study

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

AWARD NUMBER: W81XWH-15-2-0030 TITLE: Robotic Surgery Readiness (RSR): A Prospective Randomized Skills Decay Recognition and Prevention Study...20164. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Robotic Surgery Readiness (RSR): A Prospective Randomized Skills Decay 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER R ognition and Prevention Study...be recruited and many have completed the proficiency phase of this project and will be moving on to AIM 1. 15. SUBJECT TERMS Robotic Surgery

Polymorphisms of muscle genes are associated with bone mass and incident osteoporotic fractures in Caucasians.

PubMed

Harsløf, T; Frost, M; Nielsen, T L; Husted, L B; Nyegaard, M; Brixen, K; Børglum, A D; Mosekilde, L; Andersen, M; Rejnmark, L; Langdahl, B L

2013-05-01

The interaction between muscle and bone is complex. The aim of this study was to investigate if variations in the muscle genes myostatin (MSTN), its receptor (ACVR2B), myogenin (MYOG), and myoD1 (MYOD1) were associated with fracture risk, bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), and lean body mass. We analyzed two independent cohorts: the Danish Osteoporosis Prevention Study (DOPS), comprising 2,016 perimenopausal women treated with hormone therapy or not and followed for 10 years, and the Odense Androgen Study (OAS), a cross-sectional, population-based study on 783 men aged 20-29 years. Nine tag SNPs in the four genes were investigated. In the DOPS, individuals homozygous for the variant allele of the MSTN SNP rs7570532 had an increased risk of any osteoporotic fracture, with an HR of 1.82 (95 % CI 1.15-2.90, p = 0.01), and of nonvertebral osteoporotic fracture, with an HR of 2.02 (95 % CI 1.20-3.41, p = 0.01). The same allele was associated with increased bone loss (BMC) at the total hip of 4.1 versus 0.5 % in individuals either heterozygous or homozygous for the common allele (p = 0.006), a reduced 10-year growth in bone area at the total hip of 0.4 versus 2.2 and 2.3 % in individuals heterozygous or homozygous for the common allele, respectively (p = 0.01), and a nonsignificantly increased 10-year loss of total-hip BMD of 4.4 versus 2.7 and 2.9 % in individuals heterozygous or homozygous for the common allele, respectively (p = 0.08). This study is the first to demonstrate an association between a variant in MSTN and fracture risk and bone loss. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings.

Contamination of the norepinephrine prodrug droxidopa by dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde.

PubMed

Holmes, Courtney; Whittaker, Noel; Heredia-Moya, Jorge; Goldstein, David S

2010-05-01

L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS, droxidopa) is a norepinephrine (NE) prodrug under development to treat orthostatic hypotension. 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL), an endogenous catecholaldehyde produced by enzymatic oxidative deamination of dopamine, is toxic to catecholaminergic neurons. Based on the observation of increasing plasma DOPAL after oral administration of L-DOPS to a patient, we examined whether other subjects also had DOPAL in their plasma after droxidopa administration, and whether droxidopa is contaminated with DOPAL. Thirteen subjects took 400 mg droxidopa orally. We sampled venous blood at baseline and 1, 2, 3, 6, 24, and 48 h after drug administration and assayed L-DOPS, NE, and DOPAL by use of liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (LC-ED). Droxidopa in acidic solution (20:80 mixture of 0.04 mol/L phosphoric acid:0.20 mol/L acetic acid) was vacuum centrifuged for 1 h at 30 degrees C and then assayed by LC-ED. Droxidopa contained 0.01% DOPAL. At 6 h after droxidopa, all subjects had detectable DOPAL in plasma (1.89 nmol/L, P = 0.0001). Across the sampling times, plasma DOPAL correlated with plasma L-DOPS (r = 0.996). The mean increment in plasma DOPAL was more than 4 times that in plasma NE (0.39 nmol/L). In 2 patients with Parkinson disease and orthostatic hypotension, DOPAL was detected in plasma at baseline (0.12 nmol/L) and increased by about 70-fold after droxidopa. Vacuum concentration of droxidopa in the acid solution converted L-DOPS to DOPAL completely. Droxidopa is contaminated with DOPAL. After oral droxidopa administration, DOPAL is detected in plasma of humans. Droxidopa is susceptible to extensive nonenzymatic conversion to DOPAL.

A theoretical model for smoking prevention studies in preteen children.

PubMed

McGahee, T W; Kemp, V; Tingen, M

2000-01-01

The age of the onset of smoking is on a continual decline, with the prime age of tobacco use initiation being 12-14 years. A weakness of the limited research conducted on smoking prevention programs designed for preteen children (ages 10-12) is a well-defined theoretical basis. A theoretical perspective is needed in order to make a meaningful transition from empirical analysis to application of knowledge. Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory (1977, 1986), the Theory of Reasoned Action (Ajzen & Fishbein, 1980), and other literature linking various concepts to smoking behaviors in preteens were used to develop a model that may be useful for smoking prevention studies in preteen children.

Long-term prevalence and predictors of urinary incontinence among women in the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study.

PubMed

Phelan, Suzanne; Kanaya, Alka M; Ma, Yong; Vittinghoff, Eric; Barrett-Connor, Elizabeth; Wing, Rena; Kusek, John W; Orchard, Trevor J; Crandall, Jill P; Montez, Maria G; Brown, Jeanette S

2015-02-01

To examine the long-term prevalence and predictors of weekly urinary incontinence in the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study, a follow-up study of the Diabetes Prevention Program randomized clinical trial of overweight adults with impaired glucose tolerance. This analysis included 1778 female participants of the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study who had been randomly assigned during the Diabetes Prevention Program to intensive lifestyle intervention (n = 582), metformin (n = 589) or placebo (n = 607). The study participants completed semi-annual assessments after the final Diabetes Prevention Program visit and for 6 years until October 2008. At the study entry, the prevalence of weekly urinary incontinence was lower in the intensive lifestyle intervention group compared with the metformin and placebo groups (44.2% vs 51.8%, 48.0% urinary incontinence/week, P = 0.04); during the 6-year follow-up period, these lower rates in intensive lifestyle intervention were maintained (46.7%, 53.1%, 49.9% urinary incontinence/week; P = 0.03). Statistically adjusting for urinary incontinence prevalence at the end of the Diabetes Prevention Program, the treatment arm no longer had a significant impact on urinary incontinence during the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. Independent predictors of lower urinary incontinence during the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study included lower body mass index (odds ratio 0.988, 95% confidence interval 0.982-0.994) and greater physical activity (odds ratio 0.999, 95% confidence interval 0.998-1.000) at the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study entry, and greater reductions in body mass index (odds ratio 0.75, 95% confidence interval 0.60-0.94) and waist circumference (odds ratio 0.998, 95% confidence interval 0.996-1.0) during the Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study. Diabetes was not significantly related to urinary incontinence. Intensive lifestyle intervention has a modest

Conceptual Design Study on Bolts for Self-Loosing Preventable Threaded Fasteners

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noma, Atsushi; He, Jianmei

2017-11-01

Threaded fasteners using bolts is widely applied in industrial field as well as various fields. However, threaded fasteners using bolts have loosing problems and cause many accidents. In this study, the purpose is to obtain self-loosing preventable threaded fasteners by applying spring characteristic effects on bolt structures. Helical-cutting applied bolt structures is introduced through three dimensional (3D) CAD modeling tools. Analytical approaches for evaluations on the spring characteristic effects helical-cutting applied bolt structures and self-loosing preventable performance of threaded fasteners were performed using finite element method and results are reported. Comparing slackness test results with analytical results and more details on evaluating mechanical properties will be executed in future study.

Evaluation of preventive technologies in Germany: case studies of mammography, prostate cancer screening, and fetal ultrasound.

PubMed

Perleth, M; Busse, R; Gibis, B; Brand, A

2001-01-01

In this article, three preventive strategies-mammography screening for breast cancer, PSA screening for prostate cancer, and routine ultrasound in normal pregnancy-are discussed in the context of German health care. Epidemiologic data and German studies evaluating different aspects of these preventive measures were identified and analyzed. Only a few studies could be identified that investigate these preventive measures. Despite sufficient evidence, in part derived from a German study, there is not yet a mammography screening program. In contrast, ultrasound in pregnancy is offered routinely, although there are controversies regarding the benefit of this practice. PSA screening is not offered as part of the screening program for prostate cancer. However, PSA tests as well as mammographies are done in large numbers in German ambulatory care-a practice that could be considered wild or opportunistic screening. These case studies show that preventive programs and practices in Germany are not sufficiently based on sound evidence. The paucity of evaluation activities related to prevention in Germany is probably due to the low threshold to introduce new preventive programs into the German healthcare system in the past.

ROLES OF OPIOID RECEPTOR SUBTYPES IN MEDIATING ALCOHOL SEEKING INDUCED BY DISCRETE CUES AND CONTEXT

PubMed Central

Marinelli, Peter W.; Funk, Douglas; Harding, Stephen; Li, Zhaoxia; Juzytsch, Walter; Lê, A.D.

2009-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of selective blockade of the delta (DOP) or mu opioid (MOP) receptors on alcohol seeking induced by discrete cues and context. In Experiment 1, rats were trained to self-administer alcohol in an environment with distinct sensory properties. After extinction in a different context with separate sensory properties, rats were tested for context-induced renewal in the original context following treatment with the DOP receptor antagonist naltrindole (0 – 15-mg/kg, IP) or the MOP receptor antagonist CTOP (0 – 3-µg/kg ICV). In a separate set of experiments, reinstatement was tested with the presentation of a discrete light+tone cue previously associated with alcohol delivery, following extinction without the cue. In Experiment 2, the effects of naltrindole (0 – 5-mg/kg, IP) or CTOP (0 – 3-µg/kg µg ICV) were assessed. For context-induced renewal, 7.5-mg/kg naltrindole reduced responding without affecting locomotor activity. Both doses of CTOP attenuated responding in the first 15 min of the renewal test session; however, total responses did not differ at the end of the session. For discrete cue-induced reinstatement, 1 and 5-mg/kg naltrindole attenuated responding, but CTOP had no effect. We conclude that while DOP receptors mediate alcohol seeking induced by discrete cues and context, MOP receptors may play a modest role only in context-induced renewal. These findings point to a differential involvement of opioid receptor subtypes in the effects of different kinds of conditioned stimuli on alcohol seeking, and support a more prominent role for DOP receptors. PMID:19686472

Malaria Prevention and Treatment Using Educational Animations: A Case Study in Kakamega County, Kenya

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bello-Bravo, Julia; Namatsi Lutomia, Anne; Madela, Lawrence Mbhekiseni; Pittendrigh, Barry Robert

2017-01-01

Despite worldwide efforts to prevent malaria, the disease continues to take its strongest toll in sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya is no exception, with millions of cases and thousands of deaths reported annually. This pilot study looks at knowledge on malaria prevention and treatment among peri-urban communities in Western Kenya. Through a study on the…

[Preliminary results of a community fall prevention programme: Precan study (falls prevention in La Ribera)].

PubMed

Pérez-Ros, Pilar; Martínez-Arnau, Francisco; Tormos Miñana, Immaculada; López Aracil, Aranzazu; Oltra Sanchis, M Carmen; Pechene Mera, Leidy E; Tarazona-Santabalbina, Francisco José

2014-01-01

To evaluate the results of a fall prevention programme designed to be applied to the elderly living in the community. The sample consisted of 249 participants ≥70 years of age, who were randomly assigned to one of three groups. The monthly intervention group (GIM): instructions on fall prevention and healthy exercises to improve physical function and balance at beginning of the study, and a monthly theoretical and practical refresher session. The quarterly intervention group (GIT), with the same beginning intervention and a refresher session every three months. The control group (GC), the same beginning intervention but no refresher sessions. The mean age of the sample was 74.47 years (SD 5.33), with 64% women. The incidence of falls was reduced from 0.64 per patient year in the previous year to 0.39 in the post-intervention year in GIM, from 0.49 to 0.47 in GIT, and in the GC it remained at 0.47 before and twelve months after, but with no significant differences in the reduction between groups (P=.062). At the end of the study there was a decrease in Rizzo scale of 0.72 points (95% CI: 0.57-0.88, P<.001). An interdisciplinary community intervention programme can contribute to reducing the incidence of falls. Further studies are required to continue research into the incidence of falls in the elderly living in the community. Copyright © 2013 SEGG. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

Preventing addiction related suicide: a pilot study.

PubMed

Voss, William D; Kaufman, Erin; O'Connor, Stephen S; Comtois, Katherine Anne; Conner, Kenneth R; Ries, Richard K

2013-01-01

Persons addicted to alcohol and drugs are at 5-10 times higher risk for suicide as compared to the general population. To address the need for improved suicide prevention strategies in this population, the Preventing Addiction Related Suicide (PARS) module was developed. Pilot testing of 78 patients demonstrated significant post-treatment changes in knowledge [t(66) = 12.07, p = .000] and attitudes [t(75) = 6.82, p = .000] toward suicide prevention issues. Significant gains were maintained at 1-month follow-up for changes in knowledge [t(55) = 6.33, p = .000] and attitudes [t(61) = 3.37, p = .0001], with changes in positive help seeking behaviors in dealing with suicidal issues in friends [χ(2)(1) = 10.49, p = .007], family [χ(2)(1) = 9.81, p = .015], and self [χ(2)(1) = 19.62, p = .008] also observed. The PARS was also highly rated by treatment staff as feasible within their standard clinical practice. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Preventing Addiction Related Suicide: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Voss, William D.; Kaufman, Erin; O’Connor, Stephen S.; Comtois, Katherine Anne; Connor, Kenneth R.; Ries, Richard K.

2012-01-01

Persons addicted to alcohol and drugs are at 5–10 times higher risk for suicide as compared to the general population. To address the need for improved suicide prevention strategies in this population, the Preventing Addiction Related Suicide (PARS) module was developed. Pilot testing of 78 patients demonstrated significant post-treatment changes in knowledge (t (66) = 12.07, p= .000) and attitudes (t (75) = 6.82, p = .000) toward suicide prevention issues. Significant gains were maintained at one-month follow-up for changes in knowledge (t (55) = 6.33, p= .000) and attitudes (t (61) = 3.37, p= .0001), with changes in positive help seeking behaviors in dealing with suicidal issues in friends (χ2 (1) =10.49, p = .007), family (χ2 (1) = 9.81, p = .015), and self (χ2 (1) = 19.62, p= .008) also observed. The PARS was also highly rated by treatment staff as feasible within their standard clinical practice. PMID:23375569

Attitudes towards the Infection Prevention and Control Nurse: an interview study.

PubMed

Ward, Deborah J

2012-07-01

A study was undertaken involving nursing students and nurse mentors to investigate the experiences and learning needs of nursing students in relation to infection prevention. One of the objectives was to consider the views of both nursing students and mentors towards the Infection Prevention and Control Nurse (IPCN) as an important staff member in infection prevention and control. Infection prevention and control is a national and international priority but compliance with precautions can be low. One reason for this is staff attitudes. Infection Prevention and Control Nurses have an important role to play in the management of patient care through clinical staff and it is therefore important that they are seen as approachable and effective in their role. Using a qualitative approach, data were obtained through semistructured interviews with 31 nursing students and 32 nurse mentors. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using framework analysis. Three themes emerged: attitudes towards the IPCN, effects of the presence of the IPCN and preferred qualities in IPCNs. Areas for future research are identified and recommendations made to address areas where attitudes may affect both clinical practice and the education of nursing students in clinical placements. Nurse specialists or practitioners, who are often seen within a management role, need to consider how they work with clinical staff in order to foster more collaborative relationships. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Coupling Graphene Sheets with Magnetic Nanoparticles for Energy Storage and Microelectronics

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-08-13

sheets obtained from three different synthetic methods: (i) electrochemical exfoliation of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite ( HOPG ) [8], (ii...Figure 8d, the characteristic lattice fringes of ɤ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles in graphene sheet is shown. Typical X-ray diffraction ( XRD ) patterns of the HOPG ...pattern in honey comb crystal lattice, (c) TEM (d) HRTEM image of graphene- PyDop1-MNP hybrid, (e) XRD pattern of the HOPG , exfoliated graphene, PyDop1

[Does the Prevention Act Improve Prevention in Pediatric Outpatient Settings!?

PubMed

Schoierer, J; Lob-Corzilius, T; Wermuth, I; Nowak, D; Böse-O'Reilly, S

2017-03-01

Aim of the study: The Prevention Act was adopted by the German Federal Parliament on 18.06.2015. The paediatric practice is an important place from which to reach out to children and teenagers and to positively influence them through targeted prevention services in their health-related behaviour. It is therefore an important setting for the implementation of the Prevention Act. Could the delegation of prevention services to qualified medical assistants promote the successful implementation of the Prevention Act? Since 2003, medical assistants have qualified as "Prevention Assistants" after completing training courses and offered support in preventive services to children and teenagers in the paediatrician's office. The aim of this study was to improve the effectiveness of the training to increase the competence of the participants, expansion of preventive services for children and teenagers in the paediatrician's office and reduction of physician workload. Methodology: Training was accompanied by ongoing evaluation; there were two extensive studies in 2009 and 2011, respectively. Between 2003 and 2006 (n=126, after 75% response rate) and in 2011 (n=119 after 24% response rate), participants were assessed with standardized questionnaires, and in the survey of 2011, their employers also were interviewed, (n=76, after 22% response rate). Results: The prevention assistants assess their learning successes as good and are able to take over delegated tasks in the paediatrician's office. The involvement of a trained prevention assistant contributed to the transformation and re-establishment of prevention offers in paediatrician's offices and reduced physician workload. 44% of physicians felt that the time saved by prevention assistant was very good or good, 80% of physicians surveyed also indicated that prevention assistants carried out preventive consultations in the doctor's office. Conclusion: In light of the paediatricians' workload and their own wishes and demands

Sibanye Methods for Prevention Packages Program Project Protocol: Pilot Study of HIV Prevention Interventions for Men Who Have Sex With Men in South Africa.

PubMed

McNaghten, Ad; Kearns, Rachel; Siegler, Aaron J; Phaswana-Mafuya, Nancy; Bekker, Linda-Gail; Stephenson, Rob; Baral, Stefan D; Brookmeyer, Ron; Yah, Clarence S; Lambert, Andrew J; Brown, Benjamin; Rosenberg, Eli; Blalock Tharp, Mondie; de Voux, Alex; Beyrer, Chris; Sullivan, Patrick S

2014-10-16

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention intervention programs and related research for men who have sex with men (MSM) in the southern African region remain limited, despite the emergence of a severe epidemic among this group. With a lack of understanding of their social and sexual lives and HIV risks, and with MSM being a hidden and stigmatized group in the region, optimized HIV prevention packages for southern African MSM are an urgent public health and research priority. The objective of the Sibanye Health Project is to develop and evaluate a combination package of biomedical, behavioral, and community-level HIV prevention interventions and services for MSM in South Africa. The project consists of three phases: (1) a comprehensive literature review and summary of current HIV prevention interventions (Phase I), (2) agent-based mathematical modeling of HIV transmission in southern African MSM (Phase II), and (3) formative and stigma-related qualitative research, community engagement, training on providing health care to MSM, and the pilot study (Phase III). The pilot study is a prospective one-year study of 200 men in Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The study will assess a package of HIV prevention services, including condom and condom-compatible lubricant choices, risk-reduction counseling, couples HIV testing and counseling, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for eligible men, and non-occupational post-exposure prophylaxis for men with a high risk exposure. The pilot study will begin in October 2014. Preliminary results from all components but the pilot study are available. We developed a literature review database with meta-data extracted from 3800 documents from 67 countries. Modeling results indicate that regular HIV testing and promotion of condom use can significantly impact new HIV infections among South African MSM, even in the context of high coverage of early treatment of HIV-positive men and high coverage of PrEP for at-risk HIV

Production of non-canonical sentences in agrammatic aphasia: limits in representation or rule application?

PubMed

Burchert, Frank; Meissner, Nadine; De Bleser, Ria

2008-02-01

The study reported here compares two linguistically informed hypotheses on agrammatic sentence production, the TPH [Friedmann, N., & Grodzinsky, Y. (1997). Tense and agreement in agrammatic production: Pruning the syntactic tree. Brain and Language, 56, 397-425.] and the DOP [Bastiaanse, R., & van Zonneveld, R. (2005). Sentence production with verbs of alternating transitivity in agrammatic Broca's aphasia. Journal of Neurolinguistics, 18, 59-66]. To explain impaired production of non-canonical sentences in agrammatism, the TPH basically relies on deleted or pruned clause structure positions in the left periphery, whereas the DOP appeals to limitations in the application of movement rules. Certain non-canonical sentences such as object-questions and object-relative clauses require the availability of nodes in the left periphery as well as movement to these nodes. In languages with relatively fixed word order such as English, the relevant test cases generally involve a coincidence of left periphery and movement, such that the predictions of the TPH and the DOP are identical although for different reasons. In languages with relatively free word order such as German, on the other hand, it is possible to devise specific tests of the different predictions due to the availability of scrambling. Scrambled object sentences, for example, do not involve the left periphery but do require application of movement in a domain below the left periphery. A study was conducted with German agrammatic subjects which elicited canonical sentences without object movement and non-canonical scrambled sentences with object movement. The results show that agrammatic speakers have a particular problem with the production of scrambled sentences. Further evidence reported in the study from spontaneous speech, elicitation of object relatives, questions and passives and with different agrammatic subjects confirms that non-canonical sentences are generally harder to produce for agrammatics. These

Effect of residential development on stream phosphorus dynamics in headwater suburbanizing watersheds of southern Ontario, Canada.

PubMed

Duval, Tim P

2018-10-01

Suburban landscapes are known to have degraded water quality relative to natural settings, including increased total phosphorus (TP) levels; however, the effect of subdivision construction activities on stream TP dynamics are less understood. This study measured TP and its constituents particulate, dissolved organic, and dissolved inorganic phosphorus (PP, DOP, and DIP, respectively) in two headwater streams of contrasting urbanization activity to examine whether the land-use conversion process itself contributed to TP concentrations and export. The nested watershed undergoing significant active residential community construction contained large areas of cleared former agricultural field and associated sediment mounds with elevated soil TP (~1000 mg kg -1 ), and twice as many stormwater management (SWM) ponds than the watershed with completed suburban communities. Daily stream sampling for six months revealed limited differences in TP between urbanized and urbanizing watersheds regardless of season or stream flow condition; however, the forms of TP varied significantly. The proportion of TP as DOP was consistently higher in the urbanizing stream relative to the urban stream, which was in line with significant decreases in DOP concentration as proportion of cleared former agricultural land decreased and density of SWM ponds increased. The DOP, and to a lesser extent DIP and PP, dynamics resulted in a 2.5× greater areal export of TP from a small watershed actively being suburbanized during the study period compared to the larger watershed with greater land urbanized 3-5 years ago. The results of this study suggest stream TP concentrations are relatively unresponsive to active versus established suburban cover, but the forms of TP can be quite different, and the period of home construction can increase phosphorus (P) delivery to and export through nearby streams. This information can aid land managers and urban planners update best management practices to

Cancer prevention by green tea: evidence from epidemiologic studies.

PubMed

Yuan, Jian-Min

2013-12-01

In contrast to the consistent results of an inhibitory effect of green tea extracts and tea polyphenols on the development and growth of carcinogen-induced tumors in experimental animal models, results from human studies are mixed. Both observational and intervention studies have provided evidence in support of a protective role of green tea intake in the development of oral-digestive tract cancer or an inhibitory role of oral supplementation of green tea extract on a precancerous lesion of oral cavity. Evidence in support of green tea intake against the development of liver cancer risk is limited and inconsistent. An inverse association between green tea intake and lung cancer risk has been observed among never smokers but not among smokers. Although observational studies do not support a beneficial role of tea intake against the development of prostate cancer, several phase 2 clinical trials have shown an inhibitory effect of green tea extract against the progression of prostate premalignant lesions to malignant tumors. Prospective epidemiologic studies so far have not provided evidence for a protective effect of green tea consumption on breast cancer development. Current data neither confirm nor refute a definitive cancer-preventive role of green tea intake. Large randomized intervention trials on the efficacy of green tea polyphenols or extracts are required before a recommendation for green tea consumption for cancer prevention should be made.

Preventing pressure ulcers on the heel: a Canadian cost study.

PubMed

Torra I Bou, Joan-Enric; Rueda López, Justo; Camañes, Gemma; Herrero Narváez, Elias; Blanco Blanco, Joan; Ballesté Torralba, Jordi; Martinez-Esparza, Elvira Hernández; García, Lorena San Miguel; Soriano, José Verdú

2009-01-01

An adaptation of a clinical study of 130 patients at risk of developing a pressure ulcer on the heels was performed using Canadian costs. The aim of the study was to compare the cost effectiveness of a specially shaped hydrocellular dressing (Allevyn Heel) versus that of a protective heel bandage (Soffban and gauze) in pressure ulcer prevention over an 8-week period.

Patients' knowledge of and participation in preventing pressure ulcers- an intervention study.

PubMed

Schoeps, Lena N; Tallberg, Anna-Britta; Gunningberg, Lena

2017-04-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate a patient information pamphlet on pressure ulcer (PU) prevention using a descriptive, comparative pre- and post-test study design. The patient information pamphlet 'How can you help to stop pressure ulcers?' developed by the European PU Advisory Panel in 2012 was implemented in two surgical wards in a university hospital. A total of 61 patients answered pre- and post-test questionnaires. Patients assessed their knowledge of the risks, causes and ways to prevent PUs significantly higher after the intervention than before. Twenty-eight patients (46%) reported that they had participated in PU prevention during the last 24 hours. The patients assessed the content of the PU pamphlet as useful, its language as quite easy to understand and its layout as good. Patients with a PU pamphlet during their hospital stay were more knowledgeable about and more active in their own care. It is important that nurses invite patients to be active partners in preventing PUs but also that they identify patients who need to have a more passive role. The PU pamphlet could be updated to increase its comprehensibility, meaningfulness and manageability for patients. © 2016 Medicalhelplines.com Inc and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

School Administrator Perceptions of Cyberbullying Facilitators and Barriers to Preventive Action: A Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Young, Rachel; Tully, Melissa; Ramirez, Marizen

2017-06-01

Schools are often held responsible for preventing or addressing cyberbullying, yet little is known about school administrator perceptions of cyberbullying and the challenges they face in addressing this public health issue. The goal of this study is to examine school administrators' perceptions of the facilitators of cyberbullying and barriers to primary and secondary prevention strategies. Public school administrators ( N = 36) participated in in-depth interviews about bullying and discussed their experiences with cyberbullying and their perceptions of cyberbullying facilitators and barriers to prevention. Three main themes arose from the analysis: (1) cyberbullying as a major challenge; (2) facilitators of cyberbullying and barriers to preventive action, including parents and technology; and (3) prevention efforts, including unclear jurisdiction for action, primary versus secondary prevention efforts, and technology attributes that facilitate school response to bullying. Although administrators perceive cyberbullying as a major challenge facing their schools, they are often unsure about appropriate primary and secondary prevention efforts. Relationships with parents and police complicate response and prevention as schools attempt to navigate unclear jurisdiction. Additionally, technology presents a challenge to schools because it is seen as an enabler of cyberbullying, a facilitator of prevention, and a necessary part of education efforts. Lack of research on prevention strategies, parents' knowledge and attitudes, and confusion about responsibility for addressing cyberbullying are barriers to action. Findings suggest administrators could benefit from additional clarity on which strategies are most effective for primary prevention of cyberbullying, and that prevention strategies should proactively involve parents to promote effective collaboration with schools.

How do dentists and their teams incorporate evidence about preventive care? An empirical study.

PubMed

Sbaraini, Alexandra; Carter, Stacy Marie; Evans, Robin Wendell; Blinkhorn, Anthony

2013-10-01

To identify how dentists and their teams adopt evidence-based preventive care. A qualitative study using grounded theory methodology was conducted. We interviewed 23 participants working in eight dental practices about their experience and work processes, while adopting evidence-based preventive care. During the study, Charmaz's grounded theory methodology was employed to examine the social process of adopting preventive dental care in dental practices. Charmaz's iteration of the constant comparative method was used during the data analysis. This involved coding of interview transcripts, detailed memo-writing and drawing diagrams. The transcripts were analyzed as soon as possible after each round of interviews in each dental practice. Coding was conducted primarily by AS, supported by team meetings and discussions when researchers compared their interpretations. Participants engaged in a slow process of adapting evidence-based protocols and guidelines to the existing logistics of the practices. This process was influenced by practical, philosophical, and historical aspects of dental care, and a range of barriers and facilitators. In particular, dentists spoke spontaneously about two deeply held 'rules' underpinning continued restorative treatment, which acted as barriers to provide preventive care: (i) dentists believed that some patients were too 'unreliable' to benefit from prevention; and (ii) dentists believed that patients thought that only tangible restorative treatment offered 'value for money'. During the adaptation process, some dentists and teams transitioned from their initial state - selling restorative care - through an intermediary stage - learning by doing and educating patients about the importance of preventive care - and finally to a stage where they were offering patients more than just restorative care. Resources were needed for the adaptation process to occur, including: the ability to maintain the financial viability of the practice

Statins in the prevention of venous thromboembolism: a meta-analysis of observational studies.

PubMed

Pai, Menaka; Evans, Natalie S; Shah, Sanjiv J; Green, David; Cook, Deborah; Crowther, Mark A

2011-11-01

Studies have established a relationship between inflammation and venous thromboembolism (VTE). Though statins modulate inflammation, it is uncertain if they prevent VTE in heterogeneous populations. A recent randomized trial demonstrated that statins prevent VTE in healthy older adults, yet this has not been well established in other groups, including younger individuals and individuals with comorbidities. The objective of this meta-analysis was to estimate the effect of statins on VTE in a heterogeneous group of adults. We systematically reviewed the effect of statins in preventing VTE in adult inpatients and outpatients. We systematically searched MEDLINE (1966-Jan 2010), EMBASE (1980-Jan 2010), Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PapersFirst, ProceedingsFirst, and ISI Web of Science, manually reviewed references, and contacted experts. Observational studies that compared any dose of statin to no statin or placebo, examined inpatients or outpatients, and assessed VTE, pulmonary embolism, and/or deep vein thrombosis were included. Study selection, data abstraction and study quality evaluation (using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) were independently conducted in duplicate. Four cohort studies and four case-control studies met criteria. Comparing statins to control, the odds ratio for VTE was 0.67 (95% confidence interval 0.53, 0.84), and for deep vein thrombosis was 0.53 (95% confidence interval 0.22, 1.29). The association was attenuated in lower-quality studies and studies enrolling older individuals. Further well-designed trials are needed to evaluate the risks and benefits of statins in preventing VTE in heterogenous populations of adults, identify high-risk subgroups, and analyze cost-effectiveness of statin use for this indication. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Public health case studies in diabetes prevention and control: innovation, partnerships, and funding.

PubMed

Davis, Mary V; Cannon, Margaret M; Reese, April; Lovette, Beth; Porterfield, Deborah S

2011-01-01

In 2006, we conducted case studies of 4 North Carolina local health departments (LHDs) that scored highly on an index of diabetes prevention and control performance, to explore characteristics that may serve as barriers or facilitators of diabetes prevention and control services. Case studies involving in-depth interviews were conducted at 4 LHDs. Sites were selected on the basis of 2 variables, known external funding for diabetes services and population size, that were associated with performance in diabetes prevention and control in a 2005 survey of all North Carolina LHDs. Fourteen interviews (individual and group) were conducted among 17 participants from the 4 LHDs. The main outcome measures were LHD characteristics that facilitate or hinder the performance of diabetes programs and services. Interviews revealed that all 4 high-performing LHDs had received some sort of funding from a source external to the LHD. Case study participants indicated that barriers to additional service delivery included low socioeconomic status of the population and lack of financial resources. Having a diabetes self-management education program that was recognized by the American Diabetes Association appeared to be a facilitator of diabetes services provision. Other facilitators were leadership and staff commitment, which appeared to facilitate the leveraging of partnerships and funding opportunities, leading to enhanced service delivery. The small number of LHDs participating in the study and the cross-sectional study design were limitations. Leadership, staff commitment, partnership leveraging, and funding appear to be associated with LHD performance in diabetes prevention and control services. These factors should be further studied in future public health systems and services research.

G-suited for prevention of syncope in patients with vasovagal syncope: a pilot study.

PubMed

Rasmeehirun, Prayuth; Krittayaphong, Rungroj

2014-03-01

Vasovagal syncope (VVS) represents by far the most common cause of syncope as it is diagnosed in around 50% of all patients that come to an emergency department. Although VVS is not fatal, it can cause an injury. Even serious injuries are not common, but there are reports of serious injuries of up to 5%. There are no current studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of any treatment. Past studies found that an Anti-Gravity suit (G-suit) can increase blood pressure and has been reported to prevent orthostatic hypotension effectively in patients with diabetes. It is possible that the G-suit can prevent VVS. In the present study, the authors assessed the efficacy of G-suit for vasovagal syncope prevention. In this open-label, randomized controlled study, we used the Italian tilt protocol, namely 60 degree passive tilting followed by 0.4 mg nitroglycerin challenge when the passive phase fails to induce syncope. If test was positive, then patient was enrolled. Tilt table test was repeated to compare G-suited and no G-suited to assess efficacy of G-suit for vasovagal syncope prevention. 10 patients were enrolled. There is no difference between the control group and an experimental group. In this study there is no cardio-inhibition vasovagal syncope. Positive tilt table test occurred in 50% of the patients receiving G-suited and 100% in control group (p 0.133). G-suit is unable to prevent syncope in patients with positive tilt table test but the result is not statistically significant. However, the number of patients may be too small.

A decision-supported outpatient practice system.

PubMed Central

Barrows, R. C.; Allen, B. A.; Smith, K. C.; Arni, V. V.; Sherman, E.

1996-01-01

We describe a Decision-supported Outpatient Practice (DOP) system developed and now in use at the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center. DOP is an automated ambulatory medical record system that integrates in-patient and ambulatory care data, and incorporates active and passive decision support mechanisms with a view towards improving the quality of primary care. Active decision support occurs in the form of event-driven reminders created within a remote clinical information system with its central data repository and decision support system (DSS). Novel features of DOP include patient specific health maintenance task lists calculated by the remote DSS. uses of a semantically structured controlled medical vocabulary to support clinical results review and provider data entry, and exploitation of an underlying ambulatory data model that provides for an explicit record of evolution of insight regarding patient management. Benefits, challenges, and plans are discussed. PMID:8947774

Effects of Violence Prevention Behavior on Exposure to Workplace Violence and Threats: A Follow-Up Study.

PubMed

Gadegaard, Charlotte Ann; Andersen, Lars Peter; Hogh, Annie

2018-04-01

This longitudinal study investigates the relationship between prevention behaviors, that is, enacted violence prevention policies, and exposure to workplace violence and threats across four different high risk work sectors: psychiatry, special schools, eldercare, and the prison and probation services. Logistic regression analysis of a 1-year follow-up sample of 3.016 employees from these four sectors shows that prevention behaviors are significantly and negatively associated with self-reported exposure to workplace violence and threats-in the prison and probation services, eldercare, and in psychiatry, while no significant associations are found for special schools. The results therefore show clear sector differences with regard to the preventive effect of violence prevention behaviors. Furthermore, this multisector comparison suggests that prevention behaviors are more effective in relation to a moderate frequency of violence and threats, and that only top management prevention behavior can prevent very frequent incidents (odds ratio [ OR] = 0.58). This study contributes to the literature by use of a longitudinal design and acceptable response rates, while also simultaneously investigating several high risk sectors. The results imply that when managing workplace violence in high risk areas of human service work, there should be emphasis on the use of violence prevention behaviors from top management, supervisor, and among coworkers. However, type of sector and the frequency of workplace violence should be analyzed to evaluate the potential impact of prevention behaviors.

How should an incident case of atopic dermatitis be defined? A systematic review of primary prevention studies

PubMed Central

Simpson, Eric L.; Keck, Laura E.; Chalmers, Joanne R.; Williams, Hywel C.

2012-01-01

Background Eczema prevention is now an active area of dermatologic and allergic research. Defining an incident case is therefore a prerequisite for such as study. Objective We sought to examine how an incident case of atopic dermatitis was defined in previous atopic dermatitis prevention studies in order to make recommendations on a standard definition of new atopic dermatitis cases for use in future prevention trials. Methods We conducted a systematic review of controlled interventional atopic dermatitis prevention studies using searches of Medline and Cochrane databases from 1980 to the end of January 2011. Studies that included atopic dermatitis as a secondary outcome, such as asthma prevention trials, were included. Results One hundred and two (102) studies were included in the final analysis, of which 27 (26.5%) did not describe any criteria for defining an incident case of atopic dermatitis. Of the remaining 75 studies with reported disease criteria, the Hanifin-Rajka criteria were the most commonly used (28 studies). A disease definition unique to that particular study (21 studies) was the second most commonly used disease definition, although the sources for such novel definitions were not cited. Conclusions The results from this systematic review highlight the need for improved reporting and standardization of the definition used for an incident case in atopic dermatitis prevention studies. Most prevention studies have used disease definitions such as the Hanifin-Rajka criteria that include disease chronicity. While acceptable for cumulative incidence outcomes, inclusion of disease chronicity precludes the precise measurement of disease onset. We propose a definition based on existing scientific studies that could be used in future prospective studies. PMID:22424882

Contamination of the Norepinephrine Prodrug Droxidopa by Dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde

PubMed Central

Holmes, Courtney; Whittaker, Noel; Heredia-Moya, Jorge; Goldstein, David S.

2015-01-01

BACKGROUND l-Threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L-DOPS, droxidopa) is a norepinephrine (NE) prodrug under development to treat orthostatic hypotension. 3,4-Dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPAL), an endogenous catecholaldehyde produced by enzymatic oxidative deamination of dopamine, is toxic to catecholaminergic neurons. Based on the observation of increasing plasma DOPAL after oral administration of L-DOPS to a patient, we examined whether other subjects also had DOPAL in their plasma after droxidopa administration, and whether droxidopa is contaminated with DOPAL. METHODS Thirteen subjects took 400 mg droxidopa orally. We sampled venous blood at baseline and 1, 2, 3, 6, 24, and 48 h after drug administration and assayed L-DOPS, NE, and DOPAL by use of liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection (LC-ED). Droxidopa in acidic solution (20:80 mixture of 0.04 mol/L phosphoric acid:0.20 mol/L acetic acid) was vacuum centrifuged for 1 h at 30 °C and then assayed by LC-ED. RESULTS Droxidopa contained 0.01% DOPAL. At 6 h after droxidopa, all subjects had detectable DOPAL in plasma (1.89 nmol/L, P = 0.0001). Across the sampling times, plasma DOPAL correlated with plasma L-DOPS (r = 0.996). The mean increment in plasma DOPAL was more than 4 times that in plasma NE (0.39 nmol/L). In 2 patients with Parkinson disease and orthostatic hypotension, DOPAL was detected in plasma at baseline (0.12 nmol/L) and increased by about 70-fold after droxidopa. Vacuum concentration of droxidopa in the acid solution converted L-DOPS to DOPAL completely. CONCLUSIONS Droxidopa is contaminated with DOPAL. After oral droxidopa administration, DOPAL is detected in plasma of humans. Droxidopa is susceptible to extensive nonenzymatic conversion to DOPAL. PMID:20207766

Dissolved organic phosphorus speciation in the waters of the Tamar estuary (SW England)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monbet, Phil; McKelvie, Ian D.; Worsfold, Paul J.

2009-02-01

The speciation of dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) in the temperate Tamar estuary of SW England is described. Eight stations from the riverine to marine end-members were sampled during four seasonal campaigns in 2007 and the DOP pool in the water column and sediment porewater was characterized and quantified using a flow injection manifold after sequential enzymatic hydrolysis. This enabled the enzymatically hydrolysable phosphorus (EHP) fraction and its component labile monoester phosphates, diester phosphates and a phytase-hydrolysable fraction that includes myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (phytic acid), to be determined and compared with the total DOP, dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) and total dissolved phosphorus (TDP) pools. The results showed that the DOP pool in the water column varied temporally and spatially within the estuary (1.1-22 μg L -1) and constituted 6-40% of TDP. The EHP fraction of DOP ranged from 1.1-15 μg L -1 and represented a significant and potentially bioavailable phosphorus fraction. Furthermore the spatial profiles of the three components of the EHP pool generally showed non-conservative behavior along the salinity gradient, with apparent internal estuarine sources. Porewater profiles followed broadly similar trends but were notably higher at the marine station throughout the year. In contrast to soil organic phosphorus profiles, the labile monoester phosphate fraction was the largest component, with diester phosphates also prevalent. Phytic acid concentrations were higher in the lower estuary, possibly due to salinity induced desorption processes. The EHP fraction is not commonly determined in aquatic systems due to the lack of a suitable measurement technique and the Tamar results reported here have important implications for phosphorus biogeochemistry, estuarine ecology and the development of efficient strategies for limiting the effects of phosphorus on water quality.

Relationship between preventable hospital deaths and other measures of safety: an exploratory study.

PubMed

Hogan, Helen; Healey, Frances; Neale, Graham; Thomson, Richard; Vincent, Charles; Black, Nick

2014-06-01

To explore associations between the proportion of hospital deaths that are preventable and other measures of safety. Retrospective case record review to provide estimates of preventable death proportions. Simple monotonic correlations using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient to establish the relationship with eight other measures of patient safety. Ten English acute hospital trusts. One thousand patients who died during 2009. The proportion of preventable deaths varied between hospitals (3-8%) but was not statistically significant (P = 0.94). Only one of the eight measures of safety (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia rate) was clinically and statistically significantly associated with preventable death proportion (r = 0.73; P < 0.02). There were no significant associations with the other measures including hospital standardized mortality ratios (r = -0.01). There was a suggestion that preventable deaths may be more strongly associated with some other measures of outcome than with process or with structure measures. The exploratory nature of this study inevitably limited its power to provide definitive results. The observed relationships between safety measures suggest that a larger more powerful study is needed to establish the inter-relationship of different measures of safety (structure, process and outcome), in particular the widely used standardized mortality ratios. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press in association with the International Society for Quality in Health Care; all rights reserved.

Increasing Parent Involvement in Youth HIV Prevention: A Randomized Caribbean Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baptiste, Donna R.; Kapungu, Chisina; Miller, Steve; Crown, Laurel; Henry, David; Da Costa Martinez, Dona; Jo-Bennett, Karen

2009-01-01

This article presents preliminary findings of a randomized HIV prevention study in Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean. The study centers on a family HIV workshop aimed at strengthening parenting skills that are empirically linked to reducing adolescent HIV exposure and other sexual risks. These skills include parental monitoring; educating youth…

Research Areas: Prevention

Cancer.gov

NCI’s prevention research has a broad focus, from identifying environmental and lifestyle factors that influence cancer risk to studying the biology of how cancer develops and studying ways to disseminate prevention interventions.

Effects of atmospheric reactive phosphorus deposition on phosphorus transport in a subtropical watershed: A Chinese case study.

PubMed

Gao, Yang; Hao, Zhuo; Yang, Tiantian; He, Nianpeng; Wen, Xuefa; Yu, Guirui

2017-07-01

Atmospheric phosphorus (P) deposition is not only an important external macronutrient source for aquatic ecosystems but also a major cause of high export coefficient (EC) values. However, there are limited numbers of studies in the literature that focus on estimating the deposition flux of reactive P (P r ). The aim of this study is to estimate the P r deposition on the Xiangxi River watershed, and therefore, provide a comprehensive understanding about the P r deposition on subtropical watersheds in China. Results have shown that maximal P r deposition fluxes reached 12 kg km -2 in our selected subtropical watershed. Furthermore, we found out the particulate phosphorus (PP) were dominating the total P r deposition in the Xiangxi River watershed. According to our experiments, certain forms of P r deposition were associated with high correlation coefficients with respect to the variation of rainfall intensity. Results also demonstrated that the dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) via wet deposition had large influences on the DOP and SRP concentrations in runoff, while the PO 4 -P and PP via wet deposition only affected PO 4 -P and PP loads through runoff discharge. Our experiments also shown that most parts of the P r in runoff water was derived from rainfall and its magnitudes varied with land types. Results suggested that during the dry season, the P r wet deposition not only was an important source for the P r transport driven by runoff, but also was one of the most important influencing factors that dominated the P r transport in subtropical watersheds. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Randomized controlled study of customized preventive medicine reminder letters in a community practice.

PubMed Central

Hogg, W. E.; Bass, M.; Calonge, N.; Crouch, H.; Satenstein, G.

1998-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To test the effectiveness of customized, family-oriented reminder letters in activating patients to seek appropriate preventive services. DESIGN: Randomized clinical trial. One group received computer-generated, customized letters explaining recommended preventive procedures for each family member. A second group received a form letter listing recommendations for all preventive procedures for all age and sex groups. A third group (control group) received no letters. SETTING: A private medical centre, without university affiliation, in rural Quebec. PARTICIPANTS: From 8770 patients who met study criteria, 719 families were randomly selected. Data were available for 1971 of 1998 patients in these families. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The Family Received Index is the proportion of all procedures for which a family was overdue that they received. The Family End-of-study Up-to-date Index is the proportion of procedures for which the family was eligible and for which they were up-to-date at the end of the study. RESULTS: The Family Received Index for families mailed customized letters was more than double the index for patients not mailed letters (Kruskal-Wallis P = .0139). Comparison of the Family End-of-study Up-to-date indices also demonstrated that families of patients sent customized letters were more likely to be up-to-date than families not sent letters (Kruskal-Wallis P = .0054). No statistically significant difference appeared between the number of preventive measures received by the control group and the form-letter group. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates a clinically small but statistically significant value to customizing reminder letters. PMID:9481466

Detection technology of polarization target based on curvelet transform in turbid liquid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Su; Duan, Jin; Fu, Qiang; Zhan, Juntong; Ma, Wanzhuo

2015-08-01

To suppress the interference of the target detecting in the turbid medium, a kind of polarization detection technology based on Curvelet transform was applied. This method firstly adjusts the angles of polarizing film to get the intensity images of the situations at 0°,60° and 120°, then deduces the images of Stokes vectors, degree of polarization (DOP) and polarization angle (PA) according to the Mueller matrix. At last the DOP and intensity images can be decomposed by Curvelet transform to realize the fusion of the high and low coefficients respectively, after the processed coefficients are reconstructed, the target which is easier to detect can be achieved. To prove this method, many targets in turbid medium have been detected by polarization method and fused their DOP and intensity images with Curvelet transform algorithm. As an example screws in moderate and high concentration liquid are presented respectively, from which we can see the unpolarized targets are less obvious in higher concentration liquid. When the DOP and intensity images are fused by Curvelet transform, the targets are emerged clearly out of the turbid medium, and the values of the quality evaluation parameters in clarity, degree of contract and spatial frequency are prominently enhanced comparing with the unpolarized images, which can show the feasibility of this method.

A Case Study of Violence Prevention in an Elementary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crawford, Diane Lynn

2013-01-01

This case study was initiated to explore how 6 fourth-grade student mediators implemented an inner-city elementary school's violence prevention program based on peer mediation in the context of psychosocial theory. The participants were trained in conflict resolution to intervene with disputants who experienced unresolved disagreements. To…

Prenatal diagnosis and prevention of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Northern Vietnam: study protocol.

PubMed

Smit, G Suzanne A; Vu, Thi Lam Binh; Do, Trung Dung; Speybroeck, Niko; Devleesschauwer, Brecht; Padalko, Elizaveta; Roets, Ellen; Dorny, Pierre

2017-05-25

In Vietnam, no systematic prenatal toxoplasmosis screening is in place, and only few studies have assessed the prevalence and importance of this zoonotic parasite infection. In addition, no studies have been conducted to assess the risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis. This study protocol was developed to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Hanoi and Thai Binh, Northern Vietnam, and to evaluate the association with risk factors and congenital toxoplasmosis. The protocol was developed in a way that it could potentially evolve into a countrywide prenatal diagnosis and prevention program, with the main focus on primary prevention. The collaborating gynaecologists will invite eligible pregnant women attending antenatal care for the first time to participate in the study. At first consult, information about toxoplasmosis and its prevention will be provided. All participants will be asked to fill in a questionnaire, which is designed to analyse socio-demographic and biologically plausible risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis, and blood samples will be collected to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women. In case there is suspicion of a primary infection during pregnancy, the concerned women will be followed-up by the gynaecologists according to a predefined protocol. Every participant will be informed on her serological status, risk factors and prevention measures and is offered appropriate medical information and medical follow-up if required. The hypothesis is that congenital toxoplasmosis is an important but currently under-diagnosed public health problem in Vietnam. This study can strengthen sustainable control of toxoplasmosis in Vietnam, provide a protocol for prenatal diagnosis, boost overall awareness, improve the knowledge about toxoplasmosis prevention and can be essential for evidence-based health policy.

The nurse as bricoleur in falls prevention: learning from a case study of the implementation of fall prevention best practices.

PubMed

Kirkpatrick, Helen; Boblin, Sheryl; Ireland, Sandra; Robertson, Kim

2014-04-01

Falls prevention in "real-life" clinical practice is a complex undertaking. Nurses play an active and essential role in falls prevention. This discussion paper presents a picture of the nurse as a bricoleur in falls prevention, requiring knowledge in many areas and the ability to perform multiple diverse tasks. Building on a qualitative case study with nurses at various levels in three acute care facilities, this paper posits that the concept of nurse as bricoleur has the potential to broaden our understanding of the complexity of falls prevention. The nurse as bricoleur within the Promoting Action Research in Health Services framework as the provider of person- or patient-centered evidence-based care is conceptualized. Within this framework, the nurse uses his or her professional knowledge or clinical experience while considering research, local data, and information, and the patient's experience and preferences to provide this care, the bricolage. Each of these areas is discussed as well as the impact on the nurse when a fall does occur. Recognizing this complexity of the nurses' world has important implications for both service delivery and education, including preparation of students, and the implementation of new organizational initiatives and supports for nurses when falls do occur despite the best efforts of all involved. © 2014 Sigma Theta Tau International.

Fire prevention in Delaware: a case study of fire and life safety initiatives.

PubMed

Frattaroli, Shannon; Gielen, Andrea C; Piver-Renna, Jennifer; Pollack, Keshia M; Ta, Van M

2011-01-01

Injuries resulting from residential house fires are a significant public health issue. The fire service is engaged in fire prevention activities aimed at preventing fire-related morbidity and mortality. The fire service in Delaware is regarded by some leaders in the field as a model for fire and life safety education (FLSE). We identified 3 questions to guide this research. What is the culture and context of fire prevention in Delaware? What prevention programs and policies constitute Delaware's fire prevention efforts? What can be learned from select model programs regarding their impact, sustainability, strengths, limitations, and general applicability? A discussion of the lessons learned from Delaware's experience with FLSE initiatives concludes the article. We used a single case study design and collected and analyzed data from in-depth interviews, documents, and participant observation notes to address the research questions. Data were collected in Delaware. Interviewees included a purposeful sample of members of the Delaware fire service. Descriptions of the context in which fire prevention occurs, the initiatives underway, and the factors associated with successfully supporting fire prevention in the state. Data from 16 key informant interviews, relevant documents, and direct observations of FLSE events revealed a fire service rooted in tradition, dedication, and community. A compilation of state and local FLSE initiatives illustrates the diversity of FLSE in Delaware. Thematic analysis of the data emphasize the importance of a strategic, comprehensive, and coordinated approach to realizing success in Delaware's approach to FLSE. The fire service is an important part of the public health infrastructure. While their role as first responders is evident, their contributions to prevention are also significant. This research suggests ways to support fire service prevention efforts and more fully integrate their FLSE work into the public health infrastructure.

Rationale and methods of the European Study on Cardiovascular Risk Prevention and Management in Daily Practice (EURIKA).

PubMed

Rodríguez-Artalejo, Fernando; Guallar, Eliseo; Borghi, Claudio; Dallongeville, Jean; De Backer, Guy; Halcox, Julian P; Hernández-Vecino, Ramón; Jiménez, Francisco Javier; Massó-González, Elvira L; Perk, Joep; Steg, Philippe Gabriel; Banegas, José R

2010-06-30

The EURIKA study aims to assess the status of primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) across Europe. Specifically, it will determine the degree of control of cardiovascular risk factors in current clinical practice in relation to the European guidelines on cardiovascular prevention. It will also assess physicians' knowledge and attitudes about CVD prevention as well as the barriers impeding effective risk factor management in clinical practice. Cross-sectional study conducted simultaneously in 12 countries across Europe. The study has two components: firstly at the physician level, assessing eight hundred and nine primary care and specialist physicians with a daily practice in CVD prevention. A physician specific questionnaire captures information regarding physician demographics, practice settings, cardiovascular prevention beliefs and management. Secondly at the patient level, including 7641 patients aged 50 years or older, free of clinical CVD and with at least one classical risk factor, enrolled by the participating physicians. A patient-specific questionnaire captures information from clinical records and patient interview regarding sociodemographic data, CVD risk factors, and current medications. Finally, each patient provides a fasting blood sample, which is sent to a central laboratory for measuring serum lipids, apolipoproteins, hemoglobin-A1c, and inflammatory biomarkers. Primary prevention of CVD is an extremely important clinical issue, with preventable circulatory diseases remaining the leading cause of major disease burden. The EURIKA study will provide key information to assess effectiveness of and attitudes toward primary prevention of CVD in Europe. A transnational study creates opportunities for benchmarking good clinical practice across countries and improving outcomes. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00882336).

Modeling and Simulation of Ceramic Arrays to Improve Ballistic Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

30cal AP M2 Projectile, 762x39 PS Projectile, SPH , Aluminum 5083, SiC, DoP Expeminets, AutoDyn Sin 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: UU a. REPORT b...projectile and are modeled using SPH elements in AutoDyn □ Center strike model validation runs with SiC tiles are conducted based on the DOP...Smoothed-particle hydrodynamics ( SPH ) used for all parts, SPH Size = 0.2 3 SiC and SiC 2 are identical in properties and dimensions

Preventing malaria in the Peruvian Amazon: a qualitative study in Iquitos, Peru.

PubMed

Newell, Ian; Wiskin, Connie; Anthoney, James; Meza, Graciela; de Wildt, Gilles

2018-01-16

In Peru, despite decades of concerted control efforts, malaria remains a significant public health burden. Peru has recently exhibited a dramatic rise in malaria incidence, impeding South America's progress towards malaria elimination. The Amazon basin, in particular the Loreto region of Peru, has been identified as a target for the implementation of intensified control strategies, aiming for elimination. No research has addressed why vector control strategies in Loreto have had limited impact in the past, despite vector control elsewhere being highly effective in reducing malaria transmission. This study employed qualitative methods to explore factors limiting the success of vector control strategies in the region. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted among adults attending a primary care centre in Iquitos, Peru, together with 3 interviews with key informants (health care professionals). The interviews focussed on how local knowledge, together with social and cultural attitudes, determined the use of vector control methods. Five themes emerged. (a) Participants believed malaria to be embedded within their culture, and commonly blamed this for a lack of regard for prevention. (b) They perceived a shift in mosquito biting times to early evening, rendering night-time use of bed nets less effective. (c) Poor preventive practices were compounded by a consensus that malaria prevention was the government's responsibility, and that this reduced motivation for personal prevention. (d) Participants confused the purpose of space-spraying. (e) Participants' responses also exposed persisting misconceptions, mainly concerning the cause of malaria and best practices for its prevention. To eliminate malaria from the Americas, region-specific strategies need to be developed that take into account the local social and cultural contexts. In Loreto, further research is needed to explore the potential shift in biting behaviour of Anopheles darlingi, and how this interacts

Principes et réalisation d'une chaîne laser femtoseconde haute intensité basée sur le saphir dopé au titane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Blanc, Catherine

We present the initial study, the realisation and the characterisation of a high intensity femtosecond laser chain. This chain is able to produce intensities higher than 10^18 W/cm2 on target, at a 10 Hertz repetition rate. We present first fondamentals principles of chirped pulse propagation mechanisms: group velocity dispersion, self-phase modulation, self-focusing, and gain saturation. Then after describing the spectroscopic properties of titanium doped sapphire (Ti:S), we discuss near infrared femtosecond oscillators able to be amplified in Ti:S medium, and describe our home made Kerr Lens mode locked femtosecond Ti:S oscillator. The high intensity laser chain is based on the Chirped Pulse Amplification concept, which consists in stretching the pulse before its amplification in order to avoid non-linear effects such self-focusing or breakdown, and then recompressing it to its initial pulse duration. We have developed two compact and efficient multipass amplifiers for femtosecond chirped pulse amplification. With only two of these devices, we obtain an amplification factor of 10^8, which corresponds to a peak power of ˜ 0.5 terawatt after compression. We analyse in details the performances of this system and its advantages in terms of its high quantum yield (0.3), flexibility, and optical quality. Some observed spectral distortion on chirped pulses is simply explained by a gain saturation model. High dynamic pulse temporal control is crucial for interaction experiments. For this reason, we have developed a third order sampling autocorrelator. This device is able to measure 100 fs pulses with more than 8 orders of magnitude. I compare our obtained performances to other femtosecond systems and I analyse the best way to increase the energy, reduce the pulse duration and optimise focusing in order to reach the 10^19 W/cm2 regime. Ce mémoire présente les études préliminaires, la réalisation et la caractérisation d'une chaîne dite "de haute intensité" en r

Antidepressant medicine use and risk of developing diabetes during the diabetes prevention program and diabetes prevention program outcomes study.

PubMed

Rubin, Richard R; Ma, Yong; Peyrot, Mark; Marrero, David G; Price, David W; Barrett-Connor, Elizabeth; Knowler, William C

2010-12-01

To assess the association between antidepressant medicine use and risk of developing diabetes during the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and Diabetes Prevention Program Outcomes Study (DPPOS). DPP/DPPOS participants were assessed for diabetes every 6 months and for antidepressant use every 3 months in DPP and every 6 months in DPPOS for a median 10.0-year follow-up. Controlled for factors associated with diabetes risk, continuous antidepressant use compared with no use was associated with diabetes risk in the placebo (adjusted hazard ratio 2.34 [95% CI 1.32-4.15]) and lifestyle (2.48 [1.45-4.22]) arms, but not in the metformin arm (0.55 [0.25-1.19]). Continuous antidepressant use was significantly associated with diabetes risk in the placebo and lifestyle arms. Measured confounders and mediators did not account for this association, which could represent a drug effect or reflect differences not assessed in this study between antidepressant users and nonusers.

Mindfulness Meditation for Alcohol Relapse Prevention: A Feasibility Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Zgierska, Aleksandra; Rabago, David; Zuelsdorff, Megan; Coe, Christopher; Miller, Michael; Fleming, Michael

2014-01-01

Objectives Meditation is a promising treatment for alcohol dependence. This 16-week prospective case series was designed to gather preliminary data about the efficacy of meditation for relapse prevention and to evaluate study methods feasibility. Methods Nineteen adult alcohol-dependent graduates of an intensive outpatient program were enrolled. Fifteen subjects completed the 8-week meditation course supplemented by at-home meditation and “standard of care” therapy. Outcome measures included surveys and 2 stress-responsive biomarkers. Results Subjects (N = 19, 38.4 standard deviation [SD] = 8.6-year-old) were abstinent for 30.9 (SD = 22.2) days at enrollment. Completers (N = 15) attended 82% of meditation course sessions and meditated on average 4.6 (SD = 1.1) days per week; they were abstinent on 94.5% (SD = 7.4) of study days, with 47% reporting complete abstinence and 47% reporting 1 or more heavy drinking days. Their severity of depression, anxiety, stress (P < 0.05), and craving (P < 0.08), documented relapse triggers, decreased, and the degree of mindfulness increased (P < 0.05). The meditation course was rated as a “very important” (8.7/10, SD = 1.8) and “useful relapse prevention tool” (8.5/10, SD = 2.1); participants reported being “very likely” to continue meditating (9.0/10, SD = 1.5). “Gaining skills to reduce stress,” “coping with craving,” and “good group support” were the most common qualitative comments about the course value. Compared with baseline, at 16 weeks, interleukin-6 levels decreased (N = 12, P = 0.05); cortisol levels (N = 10) were reduced but not significantly. There were no adverse events or side effects. Conclusions Meditation may be an effective adjunctive therapy for relapse prevention in alcohol dependence, worthy of investigation in a larger trial. The study methods are appropriate for such a trial. PMID:21768988

Systematic Review of Couple-Based HIV Intervention and Prevention Studies: Advantages, Gaps, and Future Directions

PubMed Central

El-Bassel, Nabila

2015-01-01

We conducted a systematic review of couple-based HIV biobehavioral (skills-building, VCT, and adherence) and biomedical (ART, circumcision) prevention and intervention studies designed to reduce sexual-and drug-risk behaviors and HIV transmission and acquisition. Of the 11,162 papers identified in the search, 93 peer-reviewed papers met the inclusion criteria and yielded a total of 33 studies conducted globally. Biobehavioral couple-based prevention and intervention studies have been efficacious in reducing sexual- and drug-risk behaviors, increasing access to HIV testing and care, and improving adherence. Biomedical couple-based studies were found to reduce HIV incidence among HIV-negative sex partners and viral load among HIV-positive partners. Despite much progress, couple-based HIV prevention and intervention studies remain limited; a number of methodological gaps exist and studies focusing on MSM, people who inject drugs, and sex workers are scarce. PMID:24980246

Edaphic factors controlling summer (rainy season) greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 and CH4) from semiarid mangrove soils (NE-Brazil).

PubMed

Nóbrega, Gabriel N; Ferreira, Tiago O; Siqueira Neto, M; Queiroz, Hermano M; Artur, Adriana G; Mendonça, Eduardo De S; Silva, Ebenezer De O; Otero, Xosé L

2016-01-15

The soil attributes controlling the CO2, and CH4 emissions were assessed in semiarid mangrove soils (NE-Brazil) under different anthropogenic activities. Soil samples were collected from different mangroves under different anthropogenic impacts, e.g., shrimp farming (Jaguaribe River); urban wastes (Cocó River) and a control site (Timonha River). The sites were characterized according to the sand content; physicochemical parameters (Eh and pH); total organic C; soil C stock (SCS) and equivalent SCS (SCSEQV); total P and N; dissolved organic C (DOC); and the degree of pyritization (DOP). The CO2 and CH4 fluxes from the soils were assessed using static closed chambers. Higher DOC and SCS and the lowest DOP promote greater CO2 emission. The CH4 flux was only observed at Jaguaribe which presented higher DOP, compared to that found in mangroves from humid tropical climates. Semiarid mangrove soils cannot be characterized as important greenhouse gas sources, compared to humid tropical mangroves.

International Evaluation Studies of Second Step, a Primary Prevention Programme: A Review

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schick, Andreas; Cierpka, Manfred

2013-01-01

Second Step is a social-emotional, skill-based, violence-prevention programme, which has been adapted for several European countries. The various versions of the programme (for kindergarten/preschool, elementary school, middle school) have been evaluated in a series of research studies. The outcomes and study designs of these studies are reported…

Primary prevention of lead exposure: the Philadelphia lead safe homes study.

PubMed

Campbell, Carla; Tran, Mary; Gracely, Edward; Starkey, Naomi; Kersten, Hans; Palermo, Peter; Rothman, Nancy; Line, Laura; Hansen-Turton, Tine

2011-01-01

Lead exposure in children can lead to neuropsychological impairment. This study tested whether primary prevention interventions in the newborn period prevent elevated blood lead levels (BLLs). The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes (LSH) Study offered parental education, home evaluation, and lead remediation to the families of urban newborns. Households were randomized to a standard lead education group or maintenance education group. We conducted home visits at baseline, six months, and 12 months. To compare BLLs, we identified a matched comparison group. We enrolled and randomized 314 newborns in the intervention component; 110 completed the study. There were few significant differences between the randomized groups. In the combined intervention groups, positive results on visual inspection declined from baseline to 12 months (97.0% to 90.6%, p = 0.007). At baseline, 36.9% of homes were above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's lead dust standard, compared with 26.9% at 12 months (p = 0.032), mainly due to a drop in windowsill dust levels. Both groups showed a significant increase in parental scores on a lead education test. Children in the intervention and matched control groups had similar geometric mean initial BLLs (2.6 vs. 2.7, p = 0.477), but a significantly higher percentage of children in the intervention group had an initial blood lead screening compared with those in the matched group (88.9% vs. 84.4%, p = 0.032). A study of primary prevention of lead exposure showed a higher blood lead screening rate for the combined intervention groups and mean BLLs at one year of age not statistically different from the comparison group. Most homes had lead hazards. Lead education significantly increased knowledge.

Integrating preventive care and nursing standardized terminologies in nursing education: a case study.

PubMed

Burkhart, Lisa; Sommer, Sheryl

2007-01-01

This study investigated the development of a community-focused curriculum integrating primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention and nursing standardized terminologies as an organizing infrastructure. This is a case study of the curriculum redesign of the Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, Loyola University Chicago. Faculty developed a conceptual framework integrating core concepts into curriculum design, course content, and clinical applications. A coherent curriculum was designed using a community-focused approach; primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies; and standardized terminologies as the organizing infrastructure to teach and apply nursing practice. The curriculum provides a meaningful correlation between the classroom and clinical experience. Students journey with their patients throughout the health care experience, applying nursing concepts using standardized terminologies. Clinical experiences provide students with the opportunity to transfer knowledge to the health experiences of patients in their care. Patient encounters, whether at the primary, secondary, or tertiary level of prevention, are used to assist students in developing critical thinking skills through the use of standardized nursing terminologies.

Étude théorique et expérimentale du transfert du dioctyl phtalate à partir d'un disque de PVC plastifié plongé dans une huile comestible

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Djilani, S.-E.; Toubal, A. A.; Messadi, D.

1998-10-01

When polymer and liquid are contacted with each other, as in packaging, some mass exchanges may occur, which constitute a major drawback when the liquid is a foodstuff or blood. However, these mass transfers in the polymers can appear as very interesting from the industrial point of view, if one is able to use and control them. It is then necessary to have a good knowledge of these transfer processes which are controlled by diffusion. Dioctyl phthalate (DOP) migration into an edible oil was studied under worst conditions: high plasticization level (50% by weight) and temperature(30 circC). The quantitative analysis of DOP in a such complex liquid medium and in the PVC itself was made easy by the use of the radioactive tracer technique. A simplified mathematical model, obtained by neglecting the oil transport in the PVC, was evaluated. This model based on the research of a finite differences explicit solution allows to reproduce for the DOP, the concentration profiles in the polymer and the kinetics of transfer in the oil, with a P-value ≥ 0.001. La mise en contact polymère-liquide se traduit généralement par des échanges de matière entre les 2 milieux considérés, ce qui constitue un inconvénient majeur lorsque le liquide est un aliment ou le sang. Cependant, ces transferts de matière dans les polymères peuvent apparaître comme très intéressants sur le plan industriel, si l'on est capable de les utiliser et de les contrôler. Il est donc nécessaire d'avoir une bonne connaissance de ces processus de transfert qui sont contrôlés par diffusion. Nous avons étudié la migration du dioctyl phtalate (DOP) dans une huile comestible en nous plaçant dans les conditions les plus défavorables: taux de plastification (50% en poids) et température (30°C) élevés. L'analyse quantitative du DOP dans un milieu liquide aussi complexe et dans le PVC lui- même a été facilitée par l'utilisation de la technique des traceurs radioactifs. Un modèle math

Preventable and Potentially Preventable Traumatic Death Rates in Neurosurgery Department: A Single Center Experience.

PubMed

Ha, Mahnjeong; Kim, Byung Chul; Choi, Seonuoo; Cho, Won Ho; Choi, Hyuk Jin

2016-10-01

Preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates is a method to evaluate the preventability of the traumatic deaths in emergency medical department. To evaluate the preventability of the traumatic deaths in patients who were admitted to neurosurgery department, we performed this study. A retrospective review identified 52 patients who admitted to neurosurgery department with severe traumatic brain injuries between 2013 and 2014. Based on radiologic and clinical state at emergency room, each preventability of death was estimated by professional panel discussion. And the final death rates were calculated. The preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates was 19.2% in this study. This result is lower than that of the research of 2012, Korean preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates. The rate of preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death of operation group is lower than that of conservative treatment group. Also, we confirmed that direct transfer and the time to operation are important to reduce the preventability. We report the preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates of our institute for evaluation of preventability in severe traumatic brain injuries during the last 2 years. For decrease of preventable death, we suggest that continuous survey of the death rate of traumatic brain injury patients is required.

Preventable and Potentially Preventable Traumatic Death Rates in Neurosurgery Department: A Single Center Experience

PubMed Central

Ha, Mahnjeong; Kim, Byung Chul; Choi, Seonuoo; Cho, Won Ho

2016-01-01

Objective Preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates is a method to evaluate the preventability of the traumatic deaths in emergency medical department. To evaluate the preventability of the traumatic deaths in patients who were admitted to neurosurgery department, we performed this study. Methods A retrospective review identified 52 patients who admitted to neurosurgery department with severe traumatic brain injuries between 2013 and 2014. Based on radiologic and clinical state at emergency room, each preventability of death was estimated by professional panel discussion. And the final death rates were calculated. Results The preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates was 19.2% in this study. This result is lower than that of the research of 2012, Korean preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates. The rate of preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death of operation group is lower than that of conservative treatment group. Also, we confirmed that direct transfer and the time to operation are important to reduce the preventability. Conclusion We report the preventable and potentially preventable traumatic death rates of our institute for evaluation of preventability in severe traumatic brain injuries during the last 2 years. For decrease of preventable death, we suggest that continuous survey of the death rate of traumatic brain injury patients is required. PMID:27857910

[Construction of the addiction prevention core competency model for preventing addictive behavior in adolescents].

PubMed

Park, Hyun Sook; Jung, Sun Young

2013-12-01

This study was done to provide fundamental data for the development of competency reinforcement programs to prevent addictive behavior in adolescents through the construction and examination of an addiction prevention core competency model. In this study core competencies for preventing addictive behavior in adolescents through competency modeling were identified, and the addiction prevention core competency model was developed. It was validated methodologically. Competencies for preventing addictive behavior in adolescents as defined by the addiction prevention core competency model are as follows: positive self-worth, self-control skill, time management skill, reality perception skill, risk coping skill, and positive communication with parents and with peers or social group. After construction, concurrent cross validation of the addiction prevention core competency model showed that this model was appropriate. The study results indicate that the addiction prevention core competency model for the prevention of addictive behavior in adolescents through competency modeling can be used as a foundation for an integral approach to enhance adolescent is used as an adjective and prevent addictive behavior. This approach can be a school-centered, cost-efficient strategy which not only reduces addictive behavior in adolescents, but also improves the quality of their resources.

Effects of nitrogen and phosphorus on the growth of Levanderina fissa: How it blooms in Pearl River Estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Zhaohui; Guo, Xin; Qu, Linjian; Lin, Langcong

2017-02-01

Effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) from different sources and at different concentrations on the growth of Levanderina fissa (= Gyrodinium instriatum) were studied in laboratory conditions. The findings might explain the recurrent blooms of this species in Pearl River Estuary, China. Results showed that nutrient limitation significantly inhibited the growth of L. fissa. The values of specific growth rate ( μ max) and half-saturation nutrient concentration ( K S) were 0.37 divisions/d and 8.49 μmol L-1 for N, and 0.39 divisions/d and 1.99 μmol L-1 for P, respectively. Based on K S values, dissolved inorganic N level in PRE was sufficient to support the high proliferation of L. fissa, while dissolved inorganic P concentration was far lower than the minimum requirement for its effective growth. L. fissa was not able to utilize dissolved organic N (DON) compounds such as urea, amino acids, and uric acid. However, it grew well by using a wide variety of dissolved organic P (DOP) sources like nucleotides, glycerophosphate, and 4-nitrophenylphosphate. The results from this study suggested that the ability in DOP utilization of L. fissa offers this species a competitive advantage in phytoplankton communities. The high level and continuous supply of DIN, enrichment of DOP, together with warm climate and low salinity in the Pearl River Estuary provided a suitable nutrient niche for the growth of L. fissa, and resulted in the recurrent blooms in the estuary.

Wide Scope, Questionable Quality: Three Reports from the Study on School Violence and Prevention.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crosse, Scott; Cantor, David; Burr, Michele; Hagen, Carol A.; Hantman, Irene; Mason, Michael J.; Siler, Amy J.; von Glatz, Adrienne; Wright, Mareena McKinley

This volume presents three reports on drug-use and violence-prevention efforts and school-crime patterns in American schools. The reports are based on findings from the Study on School Violence and Prevention, which investigated the extent of problem behavior in 886 schools across the U.S. The findings indicate that schools in general were safe,…

Modeling and Simulation of Ceramic Arrays to Improve Ballaistic Performance

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-11-01

2219 , 2000 Tile gap is found to increase the DoP as compared to One Tile tiles The next step will be run simulations on narrower and wider gap sizes...experiments described in reference - ARL-TR- 2219 , 2000 □ Tile gap is found to increase the DoP as compared to One Tile tiles □ The next step will be run...L| Al m ^ s\\cr V^ 1 v^ □ Smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) used for all parts □ SPH size = 0.40-mm, totaling 278k

Bar Study Stories. Issues in Prevention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Higher Education Center for Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Violence Prevention, 2012

2012-01-01

This issue of "Issues in Prevention" focuses on the impact of the availability of drinks in licensed establishments, such as bars and taverns on student drinking. This issue contains the following articles: (1) Cheap Drinks at College Bars Can Escalate Student Drinking (John D. Clapp); (2) High Alcohol Outlet Density: A Problem for Campuses and…

Knowledge, practices and expectations of preventive care: a qualitative study of patients attending government general outpatient clinics in Hong Kong.

PubMed

Tam, Denise Y S; Lo, Yvonne Y C; Tsui, Wendy

2018-05-09

Evidence-based preventive care recommendations have been well established, but studies have persistently reported gaps between these recommendations and general practitioners' practices in providing preventive care. Many studies have explored factors that affect the delivery of preventive care from the perspectives of the practitioners, but relatively few have evaluated the patients' point of view. The purpose of this study was to explore patients' understanding of preventive care, the actions they were taking in terms of preventive health and their expectations from family doctors in providing preventive care. A qualitative study was conducted based on one-on-one in-depth interviews. Twenty-eight patients without chronic illnesses were purposively recruited from government general outpatient clinics in Hong Kong. The interviews took place between November 2013 and February 2014. The participants' knowledge of preventive care was limited, and their preventive practices were mostly restricted to healthy lifestyle practices. They rarely obtained individualised preventive care advice from doctors. Screening investigations were initiated after symptoms had already occurred, and the decision of what to check was arbitrary. Few of the participants knew what they wanted from their doctors in terms of preventive care. These findings show significant gaps between evidence-based preventive recommendations and patients' current knowledge and practice, and show the need for a wider spectrum of preventive care education and reliable sources to provide individualised and affordable preventive assessment and screening services. Most importantly, primary care providers must take a more proactive role to provide preventive services.

Internet Use and Preventive Health Behaviors Among Couples in Later Life: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study.

PubMed

Nam, Sangbo; Han, Sae Hwang; Gilligan, Megan

2018-05-22

The aim of this study was to examine the link between internet use and preventive health behaviors. We focused on couples to examine whether there were cross-partner associations between internet use and preventive health behaviors. The data for this study came from the 2010 and 2012 waves of the Health and Retirement Study and the sample consisted of 5,143 pairs of coupled-individuals. Preventive health behaviors included cancer screenings (mammogram and prostate tests), cholesterol tests, and flu shots. Logistic multilevel actor-partner interdependence models were employed to test the study hypotheses. Internet use was associated with a higher likelihood of receiving prostate exams and cholesterol tests for husbands, net of demographic and health characteristics, and insurance status. We found that wives' internet use was associated with a higher likelihood of receiving flu shots and prostate exams for husbands, but husbands' internet use was not associated with wives' preventive health behaviors. Research linking internet use and preventive health behaviors is important because such behaviors are associated not only with health of the older population but also with substantial reductions in health care expenditures. Our findings suggested that internet use of older adults is associated with their own preventive health behaviors, as well as their spouses' preventive health behaviors. Interventions and programs to facilitate older adults' preventive health behaviors should consider couple-based approaches.

Incorporating Primary and Secondary Prevention Approaches To Address Childhood Obesity Prevention and Treatment in a Low-Income, Ethnically Diverse Population: Study Design and Demographic Data from the Texas Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration (TX CORD) Study

PubMed Central

Butte, Nancy F.; Barlow, Sarah; Vandewater, Elizabeth A.; Sharma, Shreela V.; Huang, Terry; Finkelstein, Eric; Pont, Stephen; Sacher, Paul; Byrd-Williams, Courtney; Oluyomi, Abiodun O.; Durand, Casey; Li, Linlin; Kelder, Steven H.

2015-01-01

Abstract Background: There is consensus that development and evaluation of a systems-oriented approach for child obesity prevention and treatment that includes both primary and secondary prevention efforts is needed. This article describes the study design and baseline data from the Texas Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration (TX CORD) project, which addresses child obesity among low-income, ethnically diverse overweight and obese children, ages 2–12 years; a two-tiered systems-oriented approach is hypothesized to reduce BMI z-scores, compared to primary prevention alone. Methods: Our study aims are to: (1) implement and evaluate a primary obesity prevention program; (2) implement and evaluate efficacy of a 12-month family-centered secondary obesity prevention program embedded within primary prevention; and (3) quantify the incremental cost-effectiveness of the secondary prevention program. Baseline demographic and behavioral data for the primary prevention community areas are presented. Results: Baseline data from preschool centers, elementary schools, and clinics indicate that most demographic variables are similar between intervention and comparison communities. Most families are low income (≤$25,000) and Hispanic/Latino (73.3–83.8%). The majority of parents were born outside of the United States. Child obesity rates exceed national values, ranging from 19.0% in preschool to 35.2% in fifth-grade children. Most parents report that their children consume sugary beverages, have a television in the bedroom, and do not consume adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. Conclusions: Interventions to address childhood obesity are warranted in low-income, ethnically diverse communities. Integrating primary and secondary approaches is anticipated to provide sufficient exposure that will lead to significant decreases in childhood obesity. PMID:25555188

Incorporating primary and secondary prevention approaches to address childhood obesity prevention and treatment in a low-income, ethnically diverse population: study design and demographic data from the Texas Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration (TX CORD) study.

PubMed

Hoelscher, Deanna M; Butte, Nancy F; Barlow, Sarah; Vandewater, Elizabeth A; Sharma, Shreela V; Huang, Terry; Finkelstein, Eric; Pont, Stephen; Sacher, Paul; Byrd-Williams, Courtney; Oluyomi, Abiodun O; Durand, Casey; Li, Linlin; Kelder, Steven H

2015-02-01

There is consensus that development and evaluation of a systems-oriented approach for child obesity prevention and treatment that includes both primary and secondary prevention efforts is needed. This article describes the study design and baseline data from the Texas Childhood Obesity Research Demonstration (TX CORD) project, which addresses child obesity among low-income, ethnically diverse overweight and obese children, ages 2-12 years; a two-tiered systems-oriented approach is hypothesized to reduce BMI z-scores, compared to primary prevention alone. Our study aims are to: (1) implement and evaluate a primary obesity prevention program; (2) implement and evaluate efficacy of a 12-month family-centered secondary obesity prevention program embedded within primary prevention; and (3) quantify the incremental cost-effectiveness of the secondary prevention program. Baseline demographic and behavioral data for the primary prevention community areas are presented. Baseline data from preschool centers, elementary schools, and clinics indicate that most demographic variables are similar between intervention and comparison communities. Most families are low income (≤$25,000) and Hispanic/Latino (73.3-83.8%). The majority of parents were born outside of the United States. Child obesity rates exceed national values, ranging from 19.0% in preschool to 35.2% in fifth-grade children. Most parents report that their children consume sugary beverages, have a television in the bedroom, and do not consume adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables. Interventions to address childhood obesity are warranted in low-income, ethnically diverse communities. Integrating primary and secondary approaches is anticipated to provide sufficient exposure that will lead to significant decreases in childhood obesity.

Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI.nz) study: a randomised controlled trial of sleep, food and activity interventions for preventing overweight from birth.

PubMed

Taylor, Barry J; Heath, Anne-Louise M; Galland, Barbara C; Gray, Andrew R; Lawrence, Julie A; Sayers, Rachel M; Dale, Kelly; Coppell, Kirsten J; Taylor, Rachael W

2011-12-19

Rapid weight gain during the first three years of life predicts child and adult obesity, and also later cardiovascular and other morbidities. Cross-sectional studies suggest that infant diet, activity and sleep are linked to excessive weight gain. As intervention for overweight children is difficult, the aim of the Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI.nz) study is to evaluate two primary prevention strategies during late pregnancy and early childhood that could be delivered separately or together as part of normal health care. This four-arm randomised controlled trial is being conducted with 800 families recruited at booking in the only maternity unit in the city of Dunedin, New Zealand. Mothers are randomised during pregnancy to either a usual care group (7 core contacts with a provider of government funded "Well Child" care over 2 years) or to one of three intervention groups given education and support in addition to "Well Child" care: the Food, Activity and Breastfeeding group which receives 8 extra parent contacts over the first 2 years of life; the Sleep group which receives at least 3 extra parent contacts over the first 6 months of life with a focus on prevention of sleep problems and then active intervention if there is a sleep problem from 6 months to 2 years; or the Combination group which receives all extra contacts. The main outcome measures are conditional weight velocity (0-6, 6-12, 12-24 months) and body mass index z-score at 24 months, with secondary outcomes including sleep and physical activity (parent report, accelerometry), duration of breastfeeding, timing of introduction of solids, diet quality, and measures of family function and wellbeing (parental depression, child mindedness, discipline practices, family quality of life and health care use). This study will contribute to a prospective meta-analysis of early life obesity prevention studies in Australasia. Infancy is likely to be the most effective time to establish patterns of

Biorepositories for the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial (BCPT) and the Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene (STAR) | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

The National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) has a serum and lymphocyte bank with specimens on more than 90% of the 33,000 women in the Breast Cancer Prevention Trial (BCPT) and Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene (STAR). They also have tumor blocks on the majority of the breast cancers that have occurred in women on these studies. |

Implementation of the power to prevent diabetes prevention educational curriculum into rural African American communities: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Cené, Crystal W; Haymore, Laura Beth; Ellis, Danny; Whitaker, Shaketa; Henderson, Stacey; Lin, Feng-Chang; Corbie-Smith, Giselle

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to describe the feasibility of using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to implement the Power to Prevent (P2P) diabetes prevention education curriculum in rural African American (AA) settings. Trained community health workers facilitated the 12-session P2P curriculum across 3 community settings. Quantitative (based on the pre- and post-curriculum questionnaires and changes in blood glucose, blood pressure [BP], and weight at baseline and 6 months) and qualitative data (based on semi-structured interviews with facilitators) were collected. Indicators of feasibility included: demand, acceptability, implementation fidelity, and limited efficacy testing. Across 3 counties, 104 AA participants were recruited; 43% completed ≥ 75% of the sessions. There was great demand for the program. Fifteen community health ambassadors (CHAs) were trained, and 4 served as curriculum facilitators. Content and structure of the intervention was acceptable to facilitators but there were challenges to implementing the program as designed. Improvements were seen in diabetes knowledge and the impact of healthy eating and physical activity on diabetes prevention, but there were no significant changes in blood glucose, BP, or weight. While it is feasible to use a CBPR approach to recruit participants and implement the P2P curriculum in AA community settings, there are significant challenges that must be overcome.

Quality of Austrian and Dutch Falls-Prevention Information: A Comparative Descriptive Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schoberer, Daniela; Mijnarends, Donja M.; Fliedner, Monica; Halfens, Ruud J. G.; Lohrmann, Christa

2016-01-01

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the quality of written patient information material available in Austrian and Dutch hospitals and nursing homes pertaining to falls prevention. Design: Comparative descriptive study design Setting: Hospitals and nursing homes in Austria and the Netherlands. Method: Written patient…

Secondary prevention of stroke--results from the Southern Africa Stroke Prevention Initiative (SASPI) study.

PubMed Central

Thorogood, M.; Connor, M. D.; Lewando-Hundt, G.; Tollman, S.; Ngoma, B.

2004-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To describe the prevalence of risk factors and experience of preventive interventions in stroke survivors, and identilfy barriers to secondary prevention in rural South Africa. METHODS: A clinician visited individuals in the Agincourt field site (in South Africa's rural north east) who were identified in a census as possible stroke victims to confirm the diagnosis of stroke. We explored the impact of stroke on the individual's family, and health-seeking behaviour following stroke by conducting in-depth interviews in the households of 35 stroke survivors. We held two workshops to understand the knowledge, experience, and views of primary care nurses, who provide the bulk of professional health care. FINDINGS :We identified 103 stroke survivors (37 men), 73 (71%) of whom had hypertension, but only 8 (8%) were taking anti-hypertensive treatment. Smoking was uncommon; 8 men and 1 woman smoked a maximum of ten cigarettes daily. 94 (91%) stroke survivors had sought help, which involved allopathic health care for most of them (81; 79%). 42 had also sought help from traditional healers and churches, while another 13 people had sought help only from those sources. Of the 35 survivors who were interviewed, 29 reported having been prescribed anti-hypertensive pills after their stroke. Barriers to secondary prevention included cost of treatment, reluctance to use pills, difficulties with access to drugs, and lack of equipment to measure blood pressure. A negative attitude to allopathic care was not an important factor. CONCLUSION: In this rural area hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor in stroke survivors. Effective secondary prevention may reduce the incidence of recurrent strokes, but there is no system to deliver such care. New strategies for care are needed involving both allopathic and non-allopathic-health care providers. PMID:15500283

A qualitative study of rural black adolescents' perspectives on primary STD prevention strategies.

PubMed

Akers, Aletha Y; Gold, Melanie A; Coyne-Beasley, Tamera; Corbie-Smith, Giselle

2012-06-01

Primary STD prevention relies on five key strategies: practicing abstinence, choosing low-risk partners, discussing partners' sexual history, using condoms consistently and not having multiple partners. Few studies have examined all of these strategies simultaneously, and few have focused on rural black adolescents, whose rates of early sexual initiation and STDs are among the highest in the nation. In 2006, a sample of 37 black adolescents (20 female, 17 male) from two rural North Carolina counties participated in focus groups that explored their understanding of how primary prevention strategies reduce STD transmission, the common barriers they encounter in trying to adopt these strategies and the risk reduction strategies that they employ. Transcripts were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Adolescents understood how primary prevention strategies reduce STD transmission. However, they perceived sex as normal and abstinence as unlikely during adolescence. Furthermore, they considered the remaining primary prevention strategies difficult to implement because these strategies depend on partner cooperation and incorrectly assume that STD prevention is paramount when adolescents make sexual decisions. Adolescents reported using alternative strategies to reduce their STD risk; the most commonly used approaches were indirect assessments of partner characteristics (e.g., evaluating partners' physical appearance and sexual history) and STD testing (to identify and treat infections). Adolescents try to reduce their STD risk, but do so by using ineffective practices. Promoting primary prevention strategies requires helping adolescents to identify opportunities to successfully employ these strategies. Copyright © 2012 by the Guttmacher Institute.

Making the transition from lead poisoning prevention to healthy homes: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Maring, Elisabeth F; Singer, Barbara Jones; Shenassa, Edmond D

2010-01-01

The goal of this study was to create a guide for programs considering transition from Lead Poisoning Prevention to Healthy Homes. Healthy Homes programs are comprehensive, focusing on multiple residential housing hazards. This study focused on the Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division, which was selected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to pilot the transition process. For this qualitative study, data were collected through interviews with program staff from the Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division and followed up by focus groups with community members who received its services. Grounded theory procedures were used for data analysis. Interviews and focus groups were conducted in Baltimore City near the Health Department. Seventeen interviews were conducted with Baltimore City Healthy Homes Division staff. Three focus groups were held with 3 to 6 community participants in each group. Findings for the study are arranged around an organizational framework for which transition from Lead Poisoning Prevention to Healthy Homes is the central phenomenon. Three general themes emerged: (1) programmatic changes; (2) policy changes; and (3) partnerships. Quotations from participating staff and community members provide supporting evidence for the results. Findings provide insight into the strengths and challenges of transition for 1 program. The study has implications for change on a national level as programs around the country transition to provide families with comprehensive Healthy Homes services.

Primary Prevention of Lead Exposure: The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes Study

PubMed Central

Campbell, Carla; Tran, Mary; Gracely, Edward; Starkey, Naomi; Kersten, Hans; Palermo, Peter; Rothman, Nancy; Line, Laura; Hansen-Turton, Tine

2011-01-01

Objective Lead exposure in children can lead to neuropsychological impairment. This study tested whether primary prevention interventions in the newborn period prevent elevated blood lead levels (BLLs). Methods The Philadelphia Lead Safe Homes (LSH) Study offered parental education, home evaluation, and lead remediation to the families of urban newborns. Households were randomized to a standard lead education group or maintenance education group. We conducted home visits at baseline, six months, and 12 months. To compare BLLs, we identified a matched comparison group. Results We enrolled and randomized 314 newborns in the intervention component; 110 completed the study. There were few significant differences between the randomized groups. In the combined intervention groups, positive results on visual inspection declined from baseline to 12 months (97.0% to 90.6%, p=0.007). At baseline, 36.9% of homes were above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's lead dust standard, compared with 26.9% at 12 months (p=0.032), mainly due to a drop in windowsill dust levels. Both groups showed a significant increase in parental scores on a lead education test. Children in the intervention and matched control groups had similar geometric mean initial BLLs (2.6 vs. 2.7, p=0.477), but a significantly higher percentage of children in the intervention group had an initial blood lead screening compared with those in the matched group (88.9% vs. 84.4%, p=0.032). Conclusions A study of primary prevention of lead exposure showed a higher blood lead screening rate for the combined intervention groups and mean BLLs at one year of age not statistically different from the comparison group. Most homes had lead hazards. Lead education significantly increased knowledge. PMID:21563715

Improvement of pressure ulcer prevention care in private for-profit residential care homes: an action research study.

PubMed

Kwong, Enid Wy; Hung, Maria Sy; Woo, Kevin

2016-11-25

A need exits to develop a protocol for preventing pressure ulcers (PUs) in private for-profit nursing homes in Hong Kong, where the incidence of PUs is relatively high and which have high proportion of non-professional care staff. The implementation of such protocol would involve changes in the practice of care, likely evoking feelings of fear and uncertainty that may become a barrier to staff adherence. We thus adopted the Systems Model of Action Research in this study to manage the process of change for improving PU prevention care and to develop a pressure ulcer prevention protocol for private for-profit nursing homes. A total of 474 residents and care staff who were health workers, personal care workers, and/or nurses from four private, for-profit nursing homes in Hong Kong participated in this study. Three cyclic stages and steps, namely, unfreezing (planning), changing (action), and refreezing (results) were carried out. During each cycle, focus group interviews, field observations of the care staff's practices and inspections of the skin of the residents for pressure ulcers were conducted to evaluate the implementation of the protocol. Qualitative content analysis was adopted to analyse the data. The data and methodological triangulation used in this study increased the credibility and validity of the results. The following nine themes emerged from this study: prevention practices after the occurrence of PUs, the improper use of pressure ulcer prevention materials, non-compliance with several prevention practices, improper prevention practices, the perception that the preventive care was being performed correctly, inadequate readiness to use the risk assessment tool, an undesirable environment, the supplying of unfavorable resources, and various management styles in the homes with or without nurses. At the end of the third cycle, the changes that were identified included improved compliance with the revised risk assessment method, the timely and appropriate

Growth on ATP Elicits a P-Stress Response in the Picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla

PubMed Central

Whitney, LeAnn P.; Lomas, Michael W.

2016-01-01

The surface waters of oligotrophic oceans have chronically low phosphate (Pi) concentrations, which renders dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) an important nutrient source. In the subtropical North Atlantic, cyanobacteria are often numerically dominant, but picoeukaryotes can dominate autotrophic biomass and productivity making them important contributors to the ocean carbon cycle. Despite their importance, little is known regarding the metabolic response of picoeukaryotes to changes in phosphorus (P) source and availability. To understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate P utilization in oligotrophic environments, we evaluated transcriptomes of the picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla grown under Pi-replete and -deficient conditions, with an additional investigation of growth on DOP in replete conditions. Genes that function in sulfolipid substitution and Pi uptake increased in expression with Pi-deficiency, suggesting cells were reallocating cellular P and increasing P acquisition capabilities. Pi-deficient M. pusilla cells also increased alkaline phosphatase activity and reduced their cellular P content. Cells grown with DOP were able to maintain relatively high growth rates, however the transcriptomic response was more similar to the Pi-deficient response than that seen in cells grown under Pi-replete conditions. The results demonstrate that not all P sources are the same for growth; while M. pusilla, a model picoeukaryote, may grow well on DOP, the metabolic demand is greater than growth on Pi. These findings provide insight into the cellular strategies which may be used to support growth in a stratified future ocean predicted to favor picoeukaryotes. PMID:27167623

Levels of Evidence: Cancer Screening and Prevention Studies (PDQ®)—Health Professional Version

Cancer.gov

Levels of Evidence for Cancer Screening and Prevention Studies explains how to weigh the strength of the evidence obtained in cited research studies. Get detailed information on this formal ranking system in this summary for clinicians.

[Detection, prevention and treatment of postpartum depression: a controlled study of 859 patients].

PubMed

Chabrol, H; Teissedre, F; Saint-Jean, M; Teisseyre, N; Sistac, C; Michaud, C; Roge, B

2002-01-01

This study evaluated the clinical effectiveness of a programme aimed at detecting, preventing and treating postpartum depression. The French version of the EPDS was used to measure the intensity of postpartum blues on a sample of 859 women, during their stay at the obstetrical clinic. Subjects under treatment for psychological problems were excluded from the study. Mothers scoring 9 or above on the EPDS, which is predictive of pospartum depression, were randomly assigned to a prevention and a control group. Written informed consent was obtained from the subjects after the study procedure had been explained. The prevention group received a counselling session integrating supportive, educational and cognitive-behavioral components. Therapists included five female Master's Degree level students in psychology. All therapists participated in didactic and clinical training as wells as weekly supervision from the first author. All subjects were given a second EPDS with written instructions to complete the questionnaire during the period 4 to 6 weeks postpartum and return it for analysis. At four to 6 weeks, women in the prevention group had significant reductions in the frequency of probable depression, as defined by a score of 11 or above on the EPDS (30.2% vs 48.2%, chi 2 = 7.36, dl = 1, p = 0.0067) and in the intensity of depressive symptoms measured by the mean score on the EPDS (8.5, SD = 4 vs 10.3, SD = 4.4, t = 3.06, dl = 209, p = 0.0024). Mothers with a probable depression were interviewed at home and assessed using the MINI (Mini Neuropsychiatric Interview, Lecrubier et al., 1997) to diagnose major depressive episode, the SIGH-D (Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Williams, 1988) and the BDI (Beck Depression Inventory, Beck et al., 1988). The baseline depression rating scores, EPDS (mean = 13.6, SD = 4), BDI (mean = 15.7, SD = 5.9), HDRS (mean = 14.8, SD = 6), were consistent with moderate depression. No significant differences

Community service provider perceptions of implementing older adult fall prevention in Ontario, Canada: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Dykeman, Catherine S; Markle-Reid, Maureen F; Boratto, Lorna J; Bowes, Chris; Gagné, Hélène; McGugan, Jennifer L; Orr-Shaw, Sarah

2018-02-01

Despite evidence for effective fall prevention interventions, measurable reductions in older adult (≥ 65 years) fall rates remain unrealized. This study aimed to describe the perceived barriers to and effective strategies for the implementation of evidence-based fall prevention practices within and across diverse community organizations. This study is unique in that it included community service providers who are not generally thought to provide fall prevention services to older adults, such as retail business, community support, volunteer services, community foundations, recreation centres, and various emergency services. Interviews and focus groups were conducted with a purposive sampling of providers (n = 84) in varied roles within diverse community-based organizations across disparate geographical settings. Community service providers experience significant multi-level barriers to fall prevention within and across organizations and settings. The overall challenge of serving dispersed populations in adverse environmental conditions was heightened in northern rural areas. Barriers across the system, within organizations and among providers themselves emerged along themes of Limited Coordination of Communication, Restrictive Organizational Mandates and Policies, Insufficient Resources, and Beliefs about Aging and Falls. Participants perceived that Educating Providers, Working Together, and Changing Policies and Legislation were strategies that have worked or would work well in implementing fall prevention. An unintentional observation was made that several participants in this extremely varied sample identified expanded roles in fall prevention for themselves during the interview process. Community service providers experience disabling contexts for implementing fall prevention on many levels: their specific geography, their service systems, their organizations and themselves. A systemic lack of fit between the older adult and fall prevention services

A systematic review of cost-effectiveness studies of prevention and treatment for eating disorders.

PubMed

Le, Long Khanh-Dao; Hay, Phillipa; Mihalopoulos, Cathrine

2018-04-01

Eating disorders are serious mental disorders and are associated with substantial economic and social burden. The aim of this study is to undertake a systematic review of the cost-effectiveness studies of both preventive and treatment interventions for eating disorder. Electronic databases (including the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, Global Health, CINAHL complete, Health Business Elite, Econlit, Health Policy Reference Center and ERIC) were searched for published cost-effectiveness studies of eating disorder prevention and treatment including papers published up to January 2017. The quality of studies was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist. In all, 13 studies met the review inclusion criteria as full cost-effectiveness studies and 8 were published since 2011. The studies included three modelled and one trial-based study focused on prevention, two trial-based and one modelled study for anorexia nervosa treatment and three trial-based studies for bulimia nervosa treatment. The remaining studies targeted binge-eating disorder or non-specific eating disorder treatment. The average percent of CHEERS checklist items reported was 71% (standard deviation 21%). Eating disorder interventions were mainly cost-saving or more effective and more costly compared to comparators; however, some results did not reach statistical significance. In the two studies that achieved 100% CHEERS checklist, one study reported that a cognitive dissonance intervention might be cost-effective for prevention of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa with a 90% participation rate and the second study supported lisdexamfetamine to be cost-effective in the treatment of binge-eating disorder. Insufficient evidence for long-term cost-effectiveness (e.g. over 2 years) was found. Cost-effectiveness studies in eating disorder appear to be increasing in number over the last 6 years. Findings

The study designed by a committee: design of the Multisite Violence Prevention Project.

PubMed

Henry, David B; Farrell, Albert D

2004-01-01

This article describes the research design of the Multisite Violence Prevention Project (MVPP), organized and funded by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC's objectives, refined in the course of collaboration among investigators, were to evaluate the efficacy of universal and targeted interventions designed to produce change at the school level. The project's design was developed collaboratively, and is a 2 x 2 cluster-randomized true experimental design in which schools within four separate sites were assigned randomly to four conditions: (1) no-intervention control group, (2) universal intervention, (3) targeted intervention, and (4) combined universal and targeted interventions. A total of 37 schools are participating in this study with 8-12 schools per site. The impact of the interventions on two successive cohorts of sixth-grade students will be assessed based on multiple waves of data from multiple sources of information, including teachers, students, parents, and archival data. The nesting of students within teachers, families, schools and sites created a number of challenges for designing and implementing the study. The final design represents both resolution and compromise on a number of creative tensions existing in large-scale prevention trials, including tensions between cost and statistical power, and between internal and external validity. Strengths and limitations of the final design are discussed.

Preventive fraction of physical fitness on risk factors in cardiac patients: Retrospective epidemiological study.

PubMed

Caru, Maxime; Kern, Laurence; Bousquet, Marc; Curnier, Daniel

2018-04-26

To quantify the preventive fraction of physical fitness on the risk factors in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). A total of 249 subjects (205 men and 44 women) suffering from CVD were categorized into four groups, according to their percentage of physical fitness. We calculated the odds ratio to obtain the preventive fraction in order to evaluate the impact of the physical fitness level on the risk factors ( i.e ., abdominal obesity, depression, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, overweight and smoking). It is observed that a normal physical fitness level is sufficient to induce a preventive action on abdominal obesity (38%), diabetes (12%), hypertension (33%), obesity (12%) and overweight (11%). Also, the preventive fraction increases with the level of physical fitness, in particular for hypertension (36%) and overweight (16%). A high physical fitness level does not necessarily induce a preventive action in most risk factors, excluding depression. This is the first study which demonstrates that reaching a normal physical fitness level is enough to induce a protection for some risk factors, despite having a CVD.

Preventive fraction of physical fitness on risk factors in cardiac patients: Retrospective epidemiological study

PubMed Central

Caru, Maxime; Kern, Laurence; Bousquet, Marc; Curnier, Daniel

2018-01-01

AIM To quantify the preventive fraction of physical fitness on the risk factors in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). METHODS A total of 249 subjects (205 men and 44 women) suffering from CVD were categorized into four groups, according to their percentage of physical fitness. We calculated the odds ratio to obtain the preventive fraction in order to evaluate the impact of the physical fitness level on the risk factors (i.e., abdominal obesity, depression, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, overweight and smoking). RESULTS It is observed that a normal physical fitness level is sufficient to induce a preventive action on abdominal obesity (38%), diabetes (12%), hypertension (33%), obesity (12%) and overweight (11%). Also, the preventive fraction increases with the level of physical fitness, in particular for hypertension (36%) and overweight (16%). A high physical fitness level does not necessarily induce a preventive action in most risk factors, excluding depression. CONCLUSION This is the first study which demonstrates that reaching a normal physical fitness level is enough to induce a protection for some risk factors, despite having a CVD. PMID:29707165

Short-term effect of add on bell pepper (Capsicum annuum var. grossum) juice with integrated approach of yoga therapy on blood glucose levels and cardiovascular functions in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized controlled study.

PubMed

Nagasukeerthi, Padakandla; Mooventhan, A; Manjunath, N K

2017-10-01

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global health problem. Though various studies have reported the beneficial effect of Yoga in patient with T2DM, there is a lack of study in combination with bell pepper and yoga. Hence, the present study aims at evaluating short-term effect of add on bell pepper juice with integrated approach of yoga therapy (IAYT) on blood glucose levels and cardiovascular variables in patients with T2DM. Fifty T2DM subjects with the age varied from 34 to 69-years were recruited and randomly divided into either study group or control group. The study group received 100-ml of bell pepper juice (twice/day) along with IAYT while the control group received only IAYT for 4-consecutive days. Baseline and post-test assessments were taken before and after the intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using statistical package for the social sciences, version-16. Results of this study showed no significant difference in overall (fasting and post prandial) blood glucose level in the study group compared with control group. However, a significant reduction in Post prandial blood glucose (PPBG), systolic blood pressure (SBP), pulse pressure (PP), rate pressure product (RPP) and Double product (Do-P) was observed in the study group compared with control group. Results of this study suggest that though an addition of 100-ml of bell pepper juice (twice/day) along with IAYT is not more effective in reducing fasting blood glucose, it may be more effective in reducing PPBG, SBP, PP, RPP and Do-P than IAYT alone. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Developing and implementing an integrated delirium prevention system of care: a theory driven, participatory research study

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Delirium is a common complication for older people in hospital. Evidence suggests that delirium incidence in hospital may be reduced by about a third through a multi-component intervention targeted at known modifiable risk factors. We describe the research design and conceptual framework underpinning it that informed the development of a novel delirium prevention system of care for acute hospital wards. Particular focus of the study was on developing an implementation process aimed at embedding practice change within routine care delivery. Methods We adopted a participatory action research approach involving staff, volunteers, and patient and carer representatives in three northern NHS Trusts in England. We employed Normalization Process Theory to explore knowledge and ward practices on delirium and delirium prevention. We established a Development Team in each Trust comprising senior and frontline staff from selected wards, and others with a potential role or interest in delirium prevention. Data collection included facilitated workshops, relevant documents/records, qualitative one-to-one interviews and focus groups with multiple stakeholders and observation of ward practices. We used grounded theory strategies in analysing and synthesising data. Results Awareness of delirium was variable among staff with no attention on delirium prevention at any level; delirium prevention was typically neither understood nor perceived as meaningful. The busy, chaotic and challenging ward life rhythm focused primarily on diagnostics, clinical observations and treatment. Ward practices pertinent to delirium prevention were undertaken inconsistently. Staff welcomed the possibility of volunteers being engaged in delirium prevention work, but existing systems for volunteer support were viewed as a barrier. Our evolving conception of an integrated model of delirium prevention presented major implementation challenges flowing from minimal understanding of delirium prevention

The relation between the effect of a subhypnotic dose of thiopental on claw pain threshold in rats and adrenalin, noradrenalin and dopamine levels.

PubMed

Aksoy, Mehmet; Ahiskalioglu, Ali; Ince, Ilker; Celik, Mine; Dostbil, Aysenur; Kuyrukluyildiz, Ufuk; Altuner, Durdu; Kurt, Nezahat; Suleyman, Halis

2015-01-01

Thiopental sodium (TPS) needs to be applied together with adrenalin in order to establish its analgesic effect in general anesthesia. We aimed to investigate the effect of TPS on the claw pain threshold in rats and evaluated its relationship with endogenous adrenalin (ADR), noradrenalin (NDR), and dopamine (DOP) levels. Intact and adrenalectomized rats were used in the experiment. Intact animals were divided into the following groups: 15 mg/kg TPS (TS), 0.3 mg/kg ADR+15 mg/kg TPS (ATS) and 0.3 mg/kg ADR alone (ADR). Adrenalectomized animals were divided into the following groups: 15 mg/kg TPS (A-TS), 0.3 mg/kg ADR+15 mg/kg TPS (A-ATS) and 0.3 mg/kg ADR alone (A-ADR). Claw pain threshold and blood ADR, NDR, and DOP levels were measured. The TS group's claw pain threshold was found low. However, the claw pain thresholds of the ATS and ADR groups increased significantly. In the A-TS group, the pain threshold decreased compared with normal, and in the A-ATS and A-ADR groups, the pain threshold increased. TPS reduced the blood ADR levels in intact rats; however, no significant changes were observed in the NDR and DOP levels. #TPS provides hyperalgesia by reducing the production of ADR in rats. The present study shows that to achieve analgesic activity, TPS needs to be applied together with ADR.

Dopamine negatively modulates the NCA ion channels in C. elegans

PubMed Central

Topalidou, Irini; Pereira, Laura

2017-01-01

The NALCN/NCA ion channel is a cation channel related to voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels. NALCN has been reported to be a sodium leak channel with a conserved role in establishing neuronal resting membrane potential, but its precise cellular role and regulation are unclear. The Caenorhabditis elegans orthologs of NALCN, NCA-1 and NCA-2, act in premotor interneurons to regulate motor circuit activity that sustains locomotion. Recently we found that NCA-1 and NCA-2 are activated by a signal transduction pathway acting downstream of the heterotrimeric G protein Gq and the small GTPase Rho. Through a forward genetic screen, here we identify the GPCR kinase GRK-2 as a new player affecting signaling through the Gq-Rho-NCA pathway. Using structure-function analysis, we find that the GPCR phosphorylation and membrane association domains of GRK-2 are required for its function. Genetic epistasis experiments suggest that GRK-2 acts on the D2-like dopamine receptor DOP-3 to inhibit Go signaling and positively modulate NCA-1 and NCA-2 activity. Through cell-specific rescuing experiments, we find that GRK-2 and DOP-3 act in premotor interneurons to modulate NCA channel function. Finally, we demonstrate that dopamine, through DOP-3, negatively regulates NCA activity. Thus, this study identifies a pathway by which dopamine modulates the activity of the NCA channels. PMID:28968387

Dopamine negatively modulates the NCA ion channels in C. elegans.

PubMed

Topalidou, Irini; Cooper, Kirsten; Pereira, Laura; Ailion, Michael

2017-10-01

The NALCN/NCA ion channel is a cation channel related to voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels. NALCN has been reported to be a sodium leak channel with a conserved role in establishing neuronal resting membrane potential, but its precise cellular role and regulation are unclear. The Caenorhabditis elegans orthologs of NALCN, NCA-1 and NCA-2, act in premotor interneurons to regulate motor circuit activity that sustains locomotion. Recently we found that NCA-1 and NCA-2 are activated by a signal transduction pathway acting downstream of the heterotrimeric G protein Gq and the small GTPase Rho. Through a forward genetic screen, here we identify the GPCR kinase GRK-2 as a new player affecting signaling through the Gq-Rho-NCA pathway. Using structure-function analysis, we find that the GPCR phosphorylation and membrane association domains of GRK-2 are required for its function. Genetic epistasis experiments suggest that GRK-2 acts on the D2-like dopamine receptor DOP-3 to inhibit Go signaling and positively modulate NCA-1 and NCA-2 activity. Through cell-specific rescuing experiments, we find that GRK-2 and DOP-3 act in premotor interneurons to modulate NCA channel function. Finally, we demonstrate that dopamine, through DOP-3, negatively regulates NCA activity. Thus, this study identifies a pathway by which dopamine modulates the activity of the NCA channels.

An in-depth assessment into simultaneous monitoring of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) and low-molecular-weight organic phosphorus (LMWOP) in aquatic environments using diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT).

PubMed

Mohr, Christian Wilhelm; Vogt, Rolf David; Røyset, Oddvar; Andersen, Tom; Parekh, Neha Amit

2015-04-01

Long-term laborious and thus costly monitoring of phosphorus (P) fractions is required in order to provide reasonable estimates of the levels of bioavailable phosphorus for eutrophication studies. A practical solution to this problem is the application of passive samplers, known as Diffusive Gradient in Thin films (DGTs), providing time-average concentrations. DGT, with the phosphate adsorbent Fe-oxide based binding gel, is capable of collecting both orthophosphate and low molecular weight organic phosphorus (LMWOP) compounds, such as adenosine monophosphate (AMP) and myo-inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6). The diffusion coefficient (D) is a key parameter relating the amount of analyte determined from the DGT to a time averaged ambient concentration. D at 20 °C for AMP and IP6 were experimentally determined to be 2.9 × 10(-6) cm(2) s(-1) and 1.0 × 10(-6) cm(2) s(-1), respectively. Estimations by conceptual models of LMWOP uptake by DGTs indicated that this fraction constituted more than 75% of the dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) accumulated. Since there is no one D for LMWOP, a D range was estimated through assessment of D models. The models tested for estimating D for a variety of common LMWOP molecules proved to be still too uncertain for practical use. The experimentally determined D for AMP and IP6 were therefore used as upper and lower D, respectively, in order to estimate minimum and maximum ambient concentrations of LMWOP. Validation of the DGT data was performed by comparing concentrations of P fractions determined in natural water samples with concentration of P fractions determined using DGT. Stream water draining three catchments with different land-use (forest, mixed and agriculture) showed clear differences in relative and absolute concentrations of dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) and dissolved organic P (DOP). There was no significant difference between water sample and DGT DRP (p > 0.05). Moreover, the upper and lower limit D for LMWOP proved

Diastereoselective synthesis of L: -threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine by low-specific L: -threonine aldolase mutants.

PubMed

Gwon, Hui-Jeong; Baik, Sang-Ho

2010-01-01

Diastereoselectivity-enhanced mutants of L: -threonine aldolase (L: -TA) for L: -threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine (L: -threo-DOPS) synthesis were isolated by error-prone PCR followed by a high-throughput screening. The most improved mutant was achieved from the mutant T3-3mm2, showing a 4-fold increase over the wild-type L: -TA. When aldol condensation activity was examined using whole cells of T3-3mm2, its de was constantly maintained at 55% during the batch reactions for 80 h, yielding 3.8 mg L: -threo-DOPS/ml.

Parents' perceptions on offspring risk and prevention of anxiety and depression: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Festen, Helma; Schipper, Karen; de Vries, Sybolt O; Reichart, Catrien G; Abma, Tineke A; Nauta, Maaike H

2014-01-01

Offspring of patients with anxiety or depression are at high risk for developing anxiety or depression. Despite the positive findings regarding effectiveness of prevention programs, recruitment for prevention activities and trials is notoriously difficult. Our randomized controlled prevention trial was terminated due to lack of patient inclusion. Research on mentally-ill parents' perceptions of offspring's risk and need for preventive intervention may shed light on this issue, and may enhance family participation in prevention activities and trials. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 24 parents (patients with anxiety or depression, or their partners). An inductive content analysis of the data was performed. Five research questions were investigated regarding parents' perceptions of anxiety, depression, and offspring risk; anxiety, depression, and parenting; the need for offspring intervention and prevention; and barriers to and experiences with participation in preventive research. Parental perceptions of the impact of parental anxiety and depression on offspring greatly differed. Parents articulated concerns about children's symptomatology, however, most parents did not perceive a direct link between parent symptoms and offspring quality of life. They experienced an influence of parental symptoms on family quality of life, but chose not to discuss that with their children in order to protect them. Parents were not well aware of the possibilities regarding professional help for offspring and preferred parent-focused rather than offspring-focused interventions such as parent psycho-education. Important barriers to participation in preventive research included parental overburden, shame and stigma, and perceived lack of necessity for intervention. This study highlights the importance of educating parents in adult health care. Providing psycho-education regarding offspring risk, communication in the family, and parenting in order

Pediatric Primary Care-Based Obesity Prevention for Parents of Preschool Children: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Sherwood, Nancy E; JaKa, Meghan M; Crain, A Lauren; Martinson, Brian C; Hayes, Marcia G; Anderson, Julie D

2015-12-01

The Healthy Homes/Healthy Kids Preschool (HHHK-Preschool) pilot program is an obesity prevention intervention integrating pediatric care provider counseling and a phone-based program to prevent unhealthy weight gain among 2- to 4-year-old children at risk for obesity (BMI percentile between the 50th and 85th percentile and at least one overweight parent) or currently overweight (85th percentile ≤ BMI < 95th percentile). The aim of this randomized, controlled pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of the HHHK-Preschool intervention. Sixty parent-child dyads recruited from pediatric primary care clinics were randomized to: (1) the Busy Bodies/Better Bites Obesity Prevention Arm or the (2) Healthy Tots/Safe Spots safety/injury prevention Contact Control Arm. Baseline and 6-month data were collected, including measured height and weight, accelerometry, previous day dietary recalls, and parent surveys. Intervention process data (e.g., call completion) were also collected. High intervention completion and satisfaction rates were observed. Although a statistically significant time by treatment interaction was not observed for BMI percentile or BMI z-score, post-hoc examination of baseline weight status as a moderator of treatment outcome showed that the Busy Bodies/Better Bites obesity prevention intervention appeared to be effective among children who were in the overweight category at baseline relative to those who were categorized as at risk for obesity (p = 0.04). HHHK-Preschool pilot study results support the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy in already overweight children of a pediatric primary care-based obesity prevention intervention integrating brief provider counseling and parent-targeted phone coaching. What's New: Implementing pediatric primary care-based obesity interventions is challenging. Previous interventions have primarily involved in-person sessions, a barrier to sustained parent

SHPPS 2006: School Health Policies and Programs Study--Injury Prevention and Safety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2007

2007-01-01

The School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS) is a national survey periodically conducted to assess school health policies and programs at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. This brief reports study results in the area of injury prevention and safety, covering the following topics: (1) Health Education; (2) Health Services…

Bullying in School: Case Study of Prevention and Psycho-Pedagogical Correction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ribakova, Laysan A.; Valeeva, Roza A.; Merker, Natalia

2016-01-01

The purpose of the study was the theoretical justification and experimental verification of content, complex forms and methods to ensure effective prevention and psycho-pedagogical correction of bullying in school. 53 teenage students from Kazan took part in the experiment. A complex of diagnostic techniques for the detection of violence and…

Adolescent suicide prevention.

PubMed

Novick, Lloyd F; Cibula, Donald A; Sutphen, Sally M

2003-05-01

This case-prevention of adolescent suicide-is one of a series of teaching cases in the Case-Based Series in Population-Oriented Prevention (C-POP). It has been developed for use in medical school and residency prevention curricula. The complete set of cases is presented in this supplement to the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. This teaching case examines the issue of prevention of adolescent and young adult suicide both at an individual and at a population or community level, using data from the Onondaga County Health Department. In the first section of the case, students are asked to determine whether five deaths related to falling or jumping at a local shopping mall should be considered to be suicidal deaths. Students then develop skills in the reporting as well as in the epidemiology of adolescent suicidal deaths in Onondaga County. As the case progresses, students analyze the results of a local surveillance study of suicidal attempts and ideation. The case concludes with students evaluating a hypothetical screening study intended to reduce the risk of suicidal death and discussing a research design to examine the effectiveness of this prevention strategy.

Toxoplasmosis preventive behavior and related knowledge among Saudi pregnant women: an exploratory study.

PubMed

Amin, Tarek Tawfik; Ali, Mohamed Nabil Al; Alrashid, Ahmed Abdulmohsen; Al-Agnam, Amena Ahmed; Al Sultan, Amina Abdullah

2013-06-21

Many cases of congenital toxoplasmosis can be prevented provided that pregnant women following hygienic measures to avert risk of infection and to reduce severity of the condition if primary prevention failed. This descriptive exploratory study aimed to assess the risk behavior and knowledge related to toxoplasmoisis among Saudi pregnant women attending primary health care centers (PHCs) in Al Hassa, Saudi Arabia and to determine socio-demographic characteristics related to risk behavior and knowledge. All Saudi pregnant women attending antenatal care at randomly selected six urban and four rural PHCs were approached. Those agreed to participate were interviewed using a pre-tested structured questionnaire collecting data regarding socio-demographic, obstetric history, toxoplasmosis risk behaviors and related knowledge. Of the included pregnant women, 234 (26.8%) have fulfilled the criteria for toxoplasmosis preventive behavior recommended by Centers for Disease Prevention and Control to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis, while 48.9% reported at least one risk behavior and 24.3% reported ? two risk behaviors. Logistic regression model revealed that pregnant women aged 20 to < 30 years and those with previous history of unfavorable pregnancy outcome were more likely to follow toxoplasmosis preventive behavior. Toxoplasmosis-related knowledge showed that many women had identified the role of cats in disease transmission while failed to identify other risk factors including consumption of undercooked meats, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and contacting with soil. Predictors for pregnant women to be knowledgeable towards toxoplasmosis included those aged 30 to <40 years (OR=1.53), with ? secondary education (OR=1.96), had previous unfavorable pregnancy outcomes (OR=1.88) and investigated for toxoplasmosis (OR=2.08) as reveled by multivariate regression model. Pregnant women in Al Hasas, Saudi Arabia, are substantially vulnerable to toxoplasmosis infection as they are

Toxoplasmosis Preventive Behavior and Related Knowledge among Saudi Pregnant Women: An Exploratory Study

PubMed Central

Amin, Tarek Tawfik; Ali, Mohamed Nabil Al; Alrashid, Ahmed Abdulmohsen; Ahmed Al-Agnam, Amena; Al Sultan, Amina Abdullah

2013-01-01

Introduction: Many cases of congenital toxoplasmosis can be prevented provided that pregnant women following hygienic measures to avert risk of infection and to reduce severity of the condition if primary prevention failed. Objectives: This descriptive exploratory study aimed to assess the risk behavior and knowledge related to toxoplasmoisis among Saudi pregnant women attending primary health care centers (PHCs) in Al Hassa, Saudi Arabia and to determine socio-demographic characteristics related to risk behavior and knowledge. Methods: All Saudi pregnant women attending antenatal care at randomly selected six urban and four rural PHCs were approached. Those agreed to participate were interviewed using a pre-tested structured questionnaire collecting data regarding socio-demographic, obstetric history, toxoplasmosis risk behaviors and related knowledge. Results: Of the included pregnant women, 234 (26.8%) have fulfilled the criteria for toxoplasmosis preventive behavior recommended by Centers for Disease Prevention and Control to prevent congenital toxoplasmosis, while 48.9% reported at least one risk behavior and 24.3% reported ≥ two risk behaviors. Logistic regression model revealed that pregnant women aged 20 to <30 years and those with previous history of unfavorable pregnancy outcome were more likely to follow toxoplasmosis preventive behavior. Toxoplasmosis-related knowledge showed that many women had identified the role of cats in disease transmission while failed to identify other risk factors including consumption of undercooked meats, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and contacting with soil. Predictors for pregnant women to be knowledgeable towards toxoplasmosis included those aged 30 to <40 years (OR=1.53), with ≥ secondary education (OR=1.96), had previous unfavorable pregnancy outcomes (OR=1.88) and investigated for toxoplasmosis (OR=2.08) as reveled by multivariate regression model. Conclusion: Pregnant women in Al Hasas, Saudi Arabia, are

Comparison of noninvasive blood pressure measurement techniques via the coccygeal artery in anesthetized cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus).

PubMed

Sadler, Ryan A; Hall, Natalie H; Kass, Philip H; Citino, Scott B

2013-12-01

Two indirect blood pressure measurement techniques, Doppler (DOP) sphygmomanometry and oscillometry, applied at the ventral coccygeal artery were compared with simultaneous direct blood pressure measurements at the dorsal pedal artery in 10 anesthetized, captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). The DOP method was moderately accurate, with relatively little bias (mean difference 3.8 mmHg) and 88.6% of the DOP systolic arterial pressure measurements being within 10 mmHg of the direct systolic arterial measurement. With the oscillometric (OM) method, 89.2% of the mean arterial pressure measurements were within 10 mmHg of the direct measurement and had the least bias (mean difference 2.3 mmHg), 80.7% of the systolic measurements were within 10 mmHg of the direct measurement and had the second least bias (mean difference 2.3 mmHg), and 59% of the diastolic measurements were within 10 mmHg of the direct measurement and had significant bias (mean difference 7.3 mmHg). However, DOP showed relatively poor precision (SD 11.2 mmHg) compared with OM systolic (SD 8.0 mmHg), diastolic (SD 8.6 mmHg), and mean (SD 5.7 mmHg). Both techniques showed a linear relationship with the direct technique measurements over a wide range of blood pressures. The DOP method tended to underestimate systolic measurements below 160 mmHg and overestimate systolic measurements above 160 mmHg. The OM method tended to underestimate mean pressures below 160 mm Hg, overestimate mean pressures above 160 mmHg, underestimate systolic pressures below 170 mmHg, overestimate systolic pressures above 170 mmHg, and underestimate diastolic pressures throughout the measured blood pressure range. Indirect blood pressure measurement using the ventral coccygeal artery, particularly when using an OM device for mean and systolic arterial pressure, may be useful in the clinical assessment of cheetahs when monitoring trends over time, but caution should be taken when interpreting individual values.

Waste minimization/pollution prevention study of high-priority waste streams

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ogle, R.B.

1994-03-01

Although waste minimization has been practiced by the Metals and Ceramics (M&C) Division in the past, the effort has not been uniform or formalized. To establish the groundwork for continuous improvement, the Division Director initiated a more formalized waste minimization and pollution prevention program. Formalization of the division`s pollution prevention efforts in fiscal year (FY) 1993 was initiated by a more concerted effort to determine the status of waste generation from division activities. The goal for this effort was to reduce or minimize the wastes identified as having the greatest impact on human health, the environment, and costs. Two broadmore » categories of division wastes were identified as solid/liquid wastes and those relating to energy use (primarily electricity and steam). This report presents information on the nonradioactive solid and liquid wastes generated by division activities. More specifically, the information presented was generated by teams of M&C staff members empowered by the Division Director to study specific waste streams.« less

Fluconazole use and birth defects in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study.

PubMed

Howley, Meredith M; Carter, Tonia C; Browne, Marilyn L; Romitti, Paul A; Cunniff, Christopher M; Druschel, Charlotte M

2016-05-01

Low-dose fluconazole is used commonly to treat vulvovaginal candidiasis, a condition occurring frequently during pregnancy. Conflicting information exists on the association between low-dose fluconazole use among pregnant women and the risk of major birth defects. We used data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study to examine this association. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study is a multisite, population-based, case-control study that includes pregnancies with estimated delivery dates from 1997 to 2011. Information on fluconazole use in early pregnancy was collected by self-report from 31,645 mothers of birth defect cases and 11,612 mothers of unaffected controls. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated for birth defects with 5 or more exposed cases; crude odds ratios and exact 95% confidence intervals were estimated for birth defects with 3-4 exposed cases. Of the 43,257 mothers analyzed, 44 case mothers and 6 control mothers reported using fluconazole. Six exposed infants had cleft lip with cleft palate, 4 had an atrial septal defect, and each of the following defects had 3 exposed cases: hypospadias, tetralogy of Fallot, d-transposition of the great arteries, and pulmonary valve stenosis. Fluconazole use was associated with cleft lip with cleft palate (odds ratio = 5.53; confidence interval = 1.68-18.24) and d-transposition of the great arteries (odds ratio = 7.56; confidence interval = 1.22-35.45). The associations between fluconazole and both cleft lip with cleft palate and d-transposition of the great arteries are consistent with earlier published case reports but not recent epidemiologic studies. Despite the larger sample size of the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, fluconazole use was rare. Further investigation is needed in large studies, with particular emphasis on oral clefts and conotruncal heart defects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Global research priorities for interpersonal violence prevention: a modified Delphi study.

PubMed

Mikton, Christopher R; Tanaka, Masako; Tomlinson, Mark; Streiner, David L; Tonmyr, Lil; Lee, Bandy X; Fisher, Jane; Hegadoren, Kathy; Pim, Joam Evans; Wang, Shr-Jie Sharlenna; MacMillan, Harriet L

2017-01-01

To establish global research priorities for interpersonal violence prevention using a systematic approach. Research priorities were identified in a three-round process involving two surveys. In round 1, 95 global experts in violence prevention proposed research questions to be ranked in round 2. Questions were collated and organized according to the four-step public health approach to violence prevention. In round 2, 280 international experts ranked the importance of research in the four steps, and the various substeps, of the public health approach. In round 3, 131 international experts ranked the importance of detailed research questions on the public health step awarded the highest priority in round 2. In round 2, "developing, implementing and evaluating interventions" was the step of the public health approach awarded the highest priority for four of the six types of violence considered (i.e. child maltreatment, intimate partner violence, armed violence and sexual violence) but not for youth violence or elder abuse. In contrast, "scaling up interventions and evaluating their cost-effectiveness" was ranked lowest for all types of violence. In round 3, research into "developing, implementing and evaluating interventions" that addressed parenting or laws to regulate the use of firearms was awarded the highest priority. The key limitations of the study were response and attrition rates among survey respondents. However, these rates were in line with similar priority-setting exercises. These findings suggest it is premature to scale up violence prevention interventions. Developing and evaluating smaller-scale interventions should be the funding priority.

Production of Non-Canonical Sentences in Agrammatic Aphasia: Limits in Representation or Rule Application?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burchert, Frank; Meissner, Nadine; De Bleser, Ria

2008-01-01

The study reported here compares two linguistically informed hypotheses on agrammatic sentence production, the TPH [Friedmann, N., & Grodzinsky, Y. (1997). "Tense and agreement in agrammatic production: Pruning the syntactic tree." "Brain and Language," 56, 397-425.] and the DOP [Bastiaanse, R., & van Zonneveld, R. (2005). "Sentence production…

A novel biobased plasticizer of epoxidized cardanol glycidylether: Synthesis and application in soft poly(vinyl chloride) films

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A novel plasticizer derived from cardanol, epoxied cardanol glycidyl ether (ECGE), was synthesized and characterized by 1H-NMR and 13C-NMR. Effects of the ECGE combined with dioctyl phthalate (DOP), a commercial plasticizer, in soft poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) films were studied. Dynamic mechanical a...

Knowledge and attitudes of nurses on pressure ulcer prevention: a cross-sectional multicenter study in Belgian hospitals.

PubMed

Beeckman, Dimitri; Defloor, Tom; Schoonhoven, Lisette; Vanderwee, Katrien

2011-09-01

Evidence-based guidelines for pressure ulcer prevention have been developed and promoted by authoritative organizations. However, nonadherence to these guidelines is frequently reported. Negative attitudes and lack of knowledge may act as barriers to using guidelines in clinical practice. To study the knowledge and attitudes of nurses about pressure ulcer prevention in Belgian hospitals and to explore the correlation between knowledge, attitudes, and the application of adequate prevention. A cross-sectional multicenter study was performed in a random sample of 14 Belgian hospitals, representing 207 wards. Out of that group, 94 wards were randomly selected (2105 patients). Clinical observations were performed to assess the adequacy of pressure ulcer prevention and pressure ulcer prevalence. From each participating ward, a random selection of at least five nurses completed an extensively validated knowledge and attitude instrument. In total, 553 nurses participated. A logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the correlation between knowledge, attitudes, and the application of adequate prevention. Pressure ulcer prevalence (Category I-IV) was 13.5% (284/2105). Approximately 30% (625/2105) of the patients were at risk (Bradenscore <17 and/or presence of pressure ulcer). Only 13.9% (87/625) of these patients received fully adequate prevention whilst in bed and when seated. The mean knowledge and attitude scores were 49.7% and 71.3%, respectively. The application of adequate prevention on a nursing ward was significantly correlated with the attitudes of the nurses (OR = 3.07, p = .05). No independent correlation was found between knowledge and the application of adequate prevention (OR = 0.75, p = .71). Knowledge of nurses in Belgian hospitals about the prevention of pressure ulcers is inadequate. The attitudes of nurses toward pressure ulcers are significantly correlated with the application of adequate prevention. No correlation was found

Characterizing Potentially Preventable Admissions: A Mixed Methods Study of Rates, Associated Factors, Outcomes, and Physician Decision-Making.

PubMed

Daniels, Lisa M; Sorita, Atsushi; Kashiwagi, Deanne T; Okubo, Masashi; Small, Evan; Polley, Eric C; Sawatsky, Adam P

2018-05-01

Potentially preventable admissions are a target for healthcare cost containment. To identify rates of, characterize associations with, and explore physician decision-making around potentially preventable admissions. A comparative cohort study was used to determine rates of potentially preventable admissions and to identify associated factors and patient outcomes. A qualitative case study was used to explore physicians' clinical decision-making. Patients admitted from the emergency department (ED) to the general medicine (GM) service over a total of 4 weeks were included as cases (N = 401). Physicians from both emergency medicine (EM) and GM that were involved in the cases were included (N = 82). Physicians categorized admissions as potentially preventable. We examined differences in patient characteristics, admission characteristics, and patient outcomes between potentially preventable and control admissions. Interviews with participating physicians were conducted and transcribed. Transcriptions were systematically analyzed for key concepts regarding potentially preventable admissions. EM and GM physicians categorized 22.2% (90/401) of admissions as potentially preventable. There were no significant differences between potentially preventable and control admissions in patient or admission characteristics. Potentially preventable admissions had shorter length of stay (2.1 vs. 3.6 days, p < 0.001). There was no difference in other patient outcomes. Physicians discussed several provider, system, and patient factors that affected clinical decision-making around potentially preventable admissions, particularly in the "gray zone," including risk of deterioration at home, the risk of hospitalization, the cost to the patient, and the presence of outpatient resources. Differences in provider training, risk assessment, and provider understanding of outpatient access accounted for differences in decisions between EM and GM physicians. Collaboration between EM and

[Rejection of the preventive discussion and at-risk sexual behavior: a qualitative study among gay men in Portugal].

PubMed

Maia, Marta

2010-01-01

The dominant preventive discourse imposed on sexual minorities is one that orders and prescribes condom use and an adjusted lifestyle. High-risk sexual behaviors seem to express, in part, the rejection of this dominant discourse. The objective of this study is to better understand the links between the risky sexual behaviors of gays and the socio-cultural context that leads to the rejection of preventive practices. An ethnological study was carried out in Portugal This study included seven gay men aged between 19 and 64 years old. The study also included accounts from interviews of three lesbian and bisexual women. The results show that the social pressure of a hetero-normative environment can result in the refusal or denial of prevention practices. Thus, risky sexual behaviors can reflect desire and aspirations for more rights and freedoms. New and alternative spaces for meeting gays, namely on the Internet, also seem to create more opportunities for sexual liberation and open the way for relaxed prevention practices and engaging in risky sexual behavior. However, preventive practices are not entirely absent; the reduction of risks is being expressed by the choice of sexual partners and the avoidance of certain sexual practices when a condom is not used. Through this study, the importance of peer groups in the acceptance and internalization of the preventive discourse is re-affirmed.

Patient perceptions of the role of nutrition for pressure ulcer prevention in hospital: an interpretive study.

PubMed

Roberts, Shelley; Desbrow, Ben; Chaboyer, Wendy

2014-01-01

The aims of this study were to explore (a) patients' perceptions of the role of nutrition in pressure ulcer prevention; and (b) patients' experiences with dieticians in the hospital setting. Interpretive qualitative study. The sample comprised 13 females and 7 males. Their mean age was 61.3 ± 12.6 years (mean ± SD), and their average hospital length of stay was 7.4 ± 13.0 days. The research setting was a public health hospital in Australia. In this interpretive study, adult medical patients at risk of pressure ulcers due to restricted mobility participated in a 20 to 30 minute interview using a semi-structured interview guide. Interview questions were grouped into 2 domains; perceptions on the role of nutrition for pressure ulcer prevention; and experiences with dieticians. Recorded interviews were transcribed and analyzed using content analysis. Within the first domain, 'patient knowledge of nutrition in pressure ulcer prevention,' there were varying patient understandings of the role of nutrition for prevention of pressure ulcers. This is reflected in 5 themes: (1) recognizing the role of diet in pressure ulcer prevention; (2) promoting skin health with good nutrition; (3) understanding the relationship between nutrition and health; (4) lacking insight into the role of nutrition in pressure ulcer prevention; and (5) acknowledging other risk factors for pressure ulcers. Within the second domain, patients described their experiences with and perceptions on dieticians. Two themes emerged, which expressed differing opinions around the role and reputation of dieticians; they were receptive of dietician input; and displaying ambivalence towards dieticians' advice. Hospital patients at risk for pressure ulcer development have variable knowledge of the preventive role of nutrition. Patients had differing perceptions of the importance and value of information provided by dieticians.

Structure for prevention of health care-associated infections in Brazilian hospitals: A countrywide study.

PubMed

Padoveze, Maria Clara; Fortaleza, Carlos Magno Castelo Branco; Kiffer, Carlos; Barth, Afonso Luís; Carneiro, Irna Carla do Rosário Souza; Giamberardino, Heloisa Ilhe Garcia; Rodrigues, Jorge Luiz Nobre; Santos Filho, Lauro; de Mello, Maria Júlia Gonçalves; Pereira, Milca Severino; Gontijo Filho, Paulo; Rocha, Mirza; de Medeiros, Eduardo Alexandrino Servolo; Pignatari, Antonio Carlos Campos

2016-01-01

Minimal structure is required for effective prevention of health care-associated infection (HAI). The objective of this study was to evaluate the structure for prevention of HAI in a sample of Brazilian hospitals. This was a cross-sectional study from hospitals in 5 Brazilian regions (n = 153; total beds: 13,983) classified according to the number of beds; 11 university hospitals were used as reference for comparison. Trained nurses carried out the evaluation by using structured forms previously validated. The evaluation of conformity index (CI) included elements of structure of the Health Care-Associated Prevention and Control Committee (HAIPCC), hand hygiene, sterilization, and laboratory of microbiology. The median CI for the HAIPCC varied from 0.55-0.94 among hospital categories. Hospitals with >200 beds had the worst ratio of beds to sinks (3.9; P < .001). Regarding alcoholic product for handrubbing, the worst ratio of beds to dispensers was found in hospitals with <50 beds (6.4) compared with reference hospitals (3.3; P < .001). The CI for sterilization services showed huge variation ranging from 0.0-1.00. Reference hospitals were more likely to have their own laboratory of microbiology than other hospitals. This study highlights the need for public health strategies aiming to improve the structure for HAI prevention in Brazilian hospitals. Copyright © 2016 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Phase 0/I/II Cancer Prevention Clinical Trials Program (Consortia) | Division of Cancer Prevention

Cancer.gov

Five cancer research centers lead multiple collaborative networks to assess potential cancer preventive agents and to conduct early clinical development of promising preventive agents. Also called the Consortia for Early Phase Prevention Trials, the studies require extensive biomarker analysis, investigation of the biologic effects of the cancer preventive agents on their

Diabetes mellitus prevention.

PubMed

Allende-Vigo, Myriam Zaydee

2015-01-01

The aim of this study was to review lifestyle modification interventions and pharmacological clinical studies designed to prevent diabetes and provide evidence-based recommendations for the prevention of Diabetes Mellitus. A review of relevant literature compiled via a literature search (PUBMED) of English-language publications between 1997 and 2010 was conducted. It is found that people at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus can halt the development of the disease. Lifestyle modification intervention with reduction of 5%-10% of excess body weight and increase in moderate physical activity by 150 min/wk has consistently proven to reduce the appearance of diabetes in different at-risk populations. Pharmacologic interventions have also demonstrated the prevention of the appearance of diabetes in persons at risk. Bariatric surgery has decreased the appearance of diabetes patients in a select group of individuals. The progression from prediabetes to diabetes mellitus can be prevented. Lifestyle modification intervention changes with weight loss and increased physical activity are currently recommended for the prevention of diabetes.

The requirements and challenges in preventing of road traffic injury in Iran. A qualitative study.

PubMed

Khorasani-Zavareh, Davoud; Mohammadi, Reza; Khankeh, Hamid Reza; Laflamme, Lucie; Bikmoradi, Ali; Haglund, Bo J A

2009-12-23

Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a major public health problem, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Among middle-income countries, Iran has one of the highest mortality rates from RTIs. Action is critical to combat this major public health problem. Stakeholders involved in RTI control are of key importance and their perceptions of barriers and facilitators are a vital source of knowledge. The aim of this study was to explore barriers to the prevention of RTIs and provide appropriate suggestions for prevention, based on the perceptions of stakeholders, victims and road-users as regards RTIs. Thirty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with informants in the field of RTI prevention including: police officers; public health professionals; experts from the road administrators; representatives from the General Governor, the car industry, firefighters; experts from Emergency Medical Service and the Red Crescent; and some motorcyclists and car drivers as well as victims of RTIs. A qualitative approach using grounded theory method was employed to analyze the material gathered. The core variable was identified as "The lack of a system approach to road-user safety". The following barriers in relation to RTI prevention were identified as: human factors; transportation system; and organizational coordination. Suggestions for improvement included education (for the general public and targeted group training), more effective legislation, more rigorous law enforcement, improved engineering in road infrastructure, and an integrated organization to supervise and coordinate preventive activities. The major barriers identified in this study were human factors and efforts to change human behaviour were suggested by means of public education campaigns and stricter law enforcement. However, the lack of a system approach to RTI prevention was also an important concern. There is an urgent need for both an integrated system to coordinate RTI activities and prevention

Pathways to prevention: protocol for the CAP (Climate and Preventure) study to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of school-based universal, selective and combined alcohol misuse prevention into early adulthood.

PubMed

Newton, Nicola C; Stapinski, Lexine; Slade, Tim; Champion, Katrina E; Barrett, Emma L; Chapman, Catherine; Smout, Anna; Lawler, Siobhan; Mather, Marius; Castellanos-Ryan, Natalie; Conrod, Patricia J; Teesson, Maree

2018-05-21

Alcohol use and associated harms are among the leading causes of burden of disease among young people, highlighting the need for effective prevention. The Climate and Preventure (CAP) study was the first trial of a combined universal and selective school-based approach to preventing alcohol misuse among adolescents. Initial results indicate that universal, selective and combined prevention were all effective in delaying the uptake of alcohol use and binge drinking for up to 3 years following the interventions. However, little is known about the sustainability of prevention effects across the transition to early adulthood, a period of increased exposure to alcohol and other drug use. This paper describes the protocol for the CAP long-term follow-up study which will determine the effectiveness of universal, selective and combined alcohol misuse prevention up to 7 years post intervention, and across the transition from adolescence into early adulthood. A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted between 2012 and 2015 with 2190 students (mean age: 13.3 yrs) from 26 Australian high schools. Participants were randomized to receive one of four conditions; universal prevention for all students (Climate); selective prevention for high-risk students (Preventure); combined universal and selective prevention (Climate and Preventure; CAP); or health education as usual (Control). The positive effect of the interventions on alcohol use at 12-, 24- and 36-month post baseline have previously been reported. This study will follow up the CAP study cohort approximately 5- and 7-years post baseline. The primary outcome will be alcohol use and related harms. Secondary outcomes will be cannabis use, alcohol and other drug harms including violent behavior, and mental health symptomatology. Analyses will be conducted using multi-level, mixed effects models within an intention-to-treat framework. This study will provide the first ever evaluation of the long-term effectiveness of

Novel robust skylight compass method based on full-sky polarization imaging under harsh conditions.

PubMed

Tang, Jun; Zhang, Nan; Li, Dalin; Wang, Fei; Zhang, Binzhen; Wang, Chenguang; Shen, Chong; Ren, Jianbin; Xue, Chenyang; Liu, Jun

2016-07-11

A novel method based on Pulse Coupled Neural Network(PCNN) algorithm for the highly accurate and robust compass information calculation from the polarized skylight imaging is proposed,which showed good accuracy and reliability especially under cloudy weather,surrounding shielding and moon light. The degree of polarization (DOP) combined with the angle of polarization (AOP), calculated from the full sky polarization image, were used for the compass information caculation. Due to the high sensitivity to the environments, DOP was used to judge the destruction of polarized information using the PCNN algorithm. Only areas with high accuracy of AOP were kept after the DOP PCNN filtering, thereby greatly increasing the compass accuracy and robustness. From the experimental results, it was shown that the compass accuracy was 0.1805° under clear weather. This method was also proven to be applicable under conditions of shielding by clouds, trees and buildings, with a compass accuracy better than 1°. With weak polarization information sources, such as moonlight, this method was shown experimentally to have an accuracy of 0.878°.

Prevention of myopia by partial correction of hyperopia: a twins study.

PubMed

Medina, Antonio

2018-04-01

To confirm the prediction of emmetropization feedback theory that myopia can be prevented by correcting the hyperopia of a child at risk of becoming myopic. We conducted such myopia prevention treatment with twins at risk. Their hyperopia was partially corrected by one half at age 7 and in subsequent years until age 16. Hyperopia progressively decreased in all eyes as expected. None of the twins developed myopia. The spherical equivalent refractions of the followed eyes were +1 and +1.25 D at age 16. Feedback theory accurately predicted these values. The treatment of the twins with partial correction of their hyperopia was successful. Prevention of myopia with this technique is relatively simple and powerful. The use of this myopia prevention treatment has no adverse effects. This prevention treatment is indicated in children with a hyperopic reserve at risk of developing myopia.

A multicenter, prospective, single arm, open label, observational study of sTMS for migraine prevention (ESPOUSE Study).

PubMed

Starling, Amaal J; Tepper, Stewart J; Marmura, Michael J; Shamim, Ejaz A; Robbins, Matthew S; Hindiyeh, Nada; Charles, Andrew C; Goadsby, Peter J; Lipton, Richard B; Silberstein, Stephen D; Gelfand, Amy A; Chiacchierini, Richard P; Dodick, David W

2018-05-01

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of single pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS) for the preventive treatment of migraine. Background sTMS was originally developed for the acute treatment of migraine with aura. Open label experience has suggested a preventive benefit. The objective of this trial was to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of sTMS for migraine prevention. Methods The eNeura SpringTMS Post-Market Observational U.S. Study of Migraine (ESPOUSE) Study was a multicenter, prospective, open label, observational study. From December 2014 to March 2016, patients with migraine (n = 263) were consented to complete a 1-month baseline headache diary followed by 3 months of treatment. The treatment protocol consisted of preventive (four pulses twice daily) and acute (three pulses repeated up to three times for each attack) treatment. Patients reported daily headache status, medication use, and device use with a monthly headache diary. The primary endpoint, mean reduction of headache days compared to baseline, was measured over the 28-day period during weeks 9 to 12. The primary endpoint was compared to a statistically-derived placebo estimate (performance goal). Secondary endpoints included: 50% responder rate, acute headache medication consumption, HIT-6, and mean reduction in total headache days from baseline of any intensity. Results Of a total of 263 consented subjects, 229 completed a baseline diary, and 220 were found to be eligible based on the number of headache days. The device was assigned to 217 subjects (Safety Data Set) and 132 were included in the intention to treat Full Analysis Set. For the primary endpoint, there was a -2.75 ± 0.40 mean reduction of headache days from baseline (9.06 days) compared to the performance goal (-0.63 days) ( p < 0.0001). The 50% responder rate of 46% (95% CI 37%, 56%) was also significantly higher ( p < 0.0001) than the performance goal (20%). There was a reduction of -2

An effective suicide prevention program in the Israeli Defense Forces: A cohort study.

PubMed

Shelef, L; Tatsa-Laur, L; Derazne, E; Mann, J J; Fruchter, E

2016-01-01

To evaluate the effectiveness of the IDF Suicide Prevention Program, implemented since 2006. Quasi-experimental (before and after) cohort study. Two cohorts of IDF mandatory service soldiers: the first inducted prior to (1992-2005, n=766,107) and the second subsequent to (2006-2012, n=405,252) the launching of the intervention program. The IDF Suicide Prevention Program is a population-based program, incorporating: reducing weapon availability, de-stigmatizing help-seeking behavior, integrating mental health officers into service units, and training commanders and soldiers to recognize suicide risk factors and warning signs. Suicide rate and time to suicide in cohorts before and after exposure to the Suicide Prevention Program. Trend analysis showed lower suicide rates in the cohort after intervention. The hazard ratio for the intervention effect on time to suicide was 0.44 (95% CI=0.34-0.56, P<.001) among males. Lower risk was associated with: male gender; born in Israel; higher socio-economic status; higher intelligence score; and serving in a combat unit (HR=0.43: 95% CI=0.33-0.55). There was a 57% decrease in the suicide rate following the administration of the IDF Suicide Prevention Program. The effect of the intervention appears to be related to use of a weapon, and being able to benefit from improved help-seeking and de-stigmatization. Future efforts should seek to extend the program's prevention reach to other demographic groups of soldiers. The success of the IDF program may inform suicide prevention in other military organizations and in the civilian sector. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Teacher Experiences of Delivering an Obesity Prevention Programme (The WAVES Study Intervention) in a Primary School Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffin, Tania L; Clarke, Joanne L; Lancashire, Emma R; Pallan, Miranda J; Passmore, Sandra; Adab, Peymane

2015-01-01

Objective: There has been a wealth of childhood obesity prevention studies in school-based settings. However, few have investigated the experiences of school staff charged with delivery of such programmes. This study aimed to elicit teachers' experiences of delivering a childhood obesity prevention programme for children aged 6-7 years. Design:…

State Practitioner Insights Into Local Public Health Challenges and Opportunities in Obesity Prevention: a Qualitative Study

PubMed Central

Lewis, Moira; Khoong, Elaine C.; LaSee, Claire

2014-01-01

Introduction The extent of obesity prevention activities conducted by local health departments (LHDs) varies widely. The purpose of this qualitative study was to characterize how state obesity prevention program directors perceived the role of LHDs in obesity prevention and factors that impact LHDs’ success in obesity prevention. Methods From June 2011 through August 2011, we conducted 28 semistructured interviews with directors of federally funded obesity prevention programs at 22 state and regional health departments. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed to identify recurring themes and key quotations. Results Main themes focused on the roles of LHDs in local policy and environmental change and on the barriers and facilitators to LHD success. The role LHDs play in obesity prevention varied across states but generally reflected governance structure (decentralized vs centralized). Barriers to local prevention efforts included competing priorities, lack of local capacity, siloed public health structures, and a lack of local engagement in policy and environmental change. Structures and processes that facilitated prevention were having state support (eg, resources, technical assistance), dedicated staff, strong communication networks, and a robust community health assessment and planning process. Conclusions These findings provide insight into successful strategies state and local practitioners are using to implement innovative (and evidence-informed) community-based interventions. The change in the nature of obesity prevention requires a rethinking of the state–local relationship, especially in centralized states. PMID:24625363

State practitioner insights into local public health challenges and opportunities in obesity prevention: a qualitative study.

PubMed

Stamatakis, Katherine A; Lewis, Moira; Khoong, Elaine C; Lasee, Claire

2014-03-13

The extent of obesity prevention activities conducted by local health departments (LHDs) varies widely. The purpose of this qualitative study was to characterize how state obesity prevention program directors perceived the role of LHDs in obesity prevention and factors that impact LHDs' success in obesity prevention. From June 2011 through August 2011, we conducted 28 semistructured interviews with directors of federally funded obesity prevention programs at 22 state and regional health departments. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, coded, and analyzed to identify recurring themes and key quotations. Main themes focused on the roles of LHDs in local policy and environmental change and on the barriers and facilitators to LHD success. The role LHDs play in obesity prevention varied across states but generally reflected governance structure (decentralized vs centralized). Barriers to local prevention efforts included competing priorities, lack of local capacity, siloed public health structures, and a lack of local engagement in policy and environmental change. Structures and processes that facilitated prevention were having state support (eg, resources, technical assistance), dedicated staff, strong communication networks, and a robust community health assessment and planning process. These findings provide insight into successful strategies state and local practitioners are using to implement innovative (and evidence-informed) community-based interventions. The change in the nature of obesity prevention requires a rethinking of the state-local relationship, especially in centralized states.

A Community-Based Intervention to Prevent Obesity Beginning at Birth among American Indian Children: Study Design and Rationale for the PTOTS Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karanja, Njeri; Aickin, Mikel; Lutz, Tam; Mist, Scott; Jobe, Jared B.; Maupome, Gerardo; Ritenbaugh, Cheryl

2012-01-01

Eating and physical activity behaviors associated with adult obesity have early antecedents, yet few studies have focused on obesity prevention interventions targeting very young children. Efforts to prevent obesity beginning at birth seem particularly important in populations at risk for early-onset obesity. National estimates indicate that…

Global research priorities for interpersonal violence prevention: a modified Delphi study

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Masako; Tomlinson, Mark; Streiner, David L; Tonmyr, Lil; Lee, Bandy X; Fisher, Jane; Hegadoren, Kathy; Pim, Joam Evans; Wang, Shr-Jie Sharlenna; MacMillan, Harriet L

2017-01-01

Abstract Objective To establish global research priorities for interpersonal violence prevention using a systematic approach. Methods Research priorities were identified in a three-round process involving two surveys. In round 1, 95 global experts in violence prevention proposed research questions to be ranked in round 2. Questions were collated and organized according to the four-step public health approach to violence prevention. In round 2, 280 international experts ranked the importance of research in the four steps, and the various substeps, of the public health approach. In round 3, 131 international experts ranked the importance of detailed research questions on the public health step awarded the highest priority in round 2. Findings In round 2, “developing, implementing and evaluating interventions” was the step of the public health approach awarded the highest priority for four of the six types of violence considered (i.e. child maltreatment, intimate partner violence, armed violence and sexual violence) but not for youth violence or elder abuse. In contrast, “scaling up interventions and evaluating their cost–effectiveness” was ranked lowest for all types of violence. In round 3, research into “developing, implementing and evaluating interventions” that addressed parenting or laws to regulate the use of firearms was awarded the highest priority. The key limitations of the study were response and attrition rates among survey respondents. However, these rates were in line with similar priority-setting exercises. Conclusion These findings suggest it is premature to scale up violence prevention interventions. Developing and evaluating smaller-scale interventions should be the funding priority. PMID:28053363

Children's views of accident risks and prevention: a qualitative study

PubMed Central

Green, J.; Hart, L.

1998-01-01

Objectives—To examine children's accounts of injury risks and opportunities for prevention. Setting—Schools, youth clubs, and a holiday activity scheme in the south east of England. Methods—Sixteen focus groups were held with 7–11 year old children. Transcripts of the discussions were analysed using qualitative methods. Results—Children were knowledgeable about injury risks and how to reduce them. They also saw injury prevention as primarily their own responsibility. However, they were also sophisticated in their criticisms of generalised prevention advice, and evaluated safety messages in the light of local environmental and social knowledge. Personal experience was more often reported as a reason for risk reduction than formal prevention advice. Risks for injury were not isolated from other risks faced. Conclusions—Effective educational interventions aimed at changing children's risk behaviour should build more on children's own competence and knowledge of their local environment, and stress the need to manage risks rather than avoid dangers. PMID:9595326

Prevention of severe hypoglycaemia in type I diabetes: a randomised controlled population study

PubMed Central

Nordfeldt, S; Johansson, C; Carlsson, E; Hammersjo, J

2003-01-01

Aims: To investigate use of targeted self study material in type I diabetes patient education regarding dissemination, perceived patient benefit, and prevention of severe hypoglycaemia. Methods: In a randomised 1:1:1 controlled study, 332 patients with type I diabetes (aged 2.6–18.9 years) were studied; 313 completed clinical follow up, 261 completed endpoint questionnaire. The intervention group received videotapes and a brochure designed to review skills for self control and treatment, aimed at preventing severe hypoglycaemia. Two control groups received a videotape and brochure with general diabetes information, or traditional treatment only, respectively. Results: Yearly incidence of severe hypoglycaemia decreased from 42% to 27% in the intervention group, but not in controls. HbA1c remained unchanged. Levels of use ranged from 1 to 20 times (median 2); 40–49% had shown the materials to friends, relatives, school staff, sports coaches, etc (there was little difference between intervention and control groups). Higher benefit and learning levels resulted from the intervention material, especially in patients with severe hypoglycaemia. Conclusions: Mass distributed pedagogical devices such as high quality video programmes and brochures may contribute to the prevention of severe hypoglycaemia. Such self study materials can reach high dissemination levels and constitute a cost effective complement to regular visits to a diabetes team and to other types of education. The findings may have implications for other topics, other ages, and other diagnosis groups. PMID:12598392

Prevention of Pleural Adhesions by Bioactive Polypeptides - A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Åkerberg, D.; Posaric-Bauden, M.; Isaksson, K.; Andersson, R.; Tingstedt, B.

2013-01-01

Objective: Postoperative pleural adhesions lead to major problems in repeated thoracic surgery. To date, no antiadhesive product has been proven clinically effective. Previous studies of differently charged polypeptides, poly-L-lysine (PL) and poly-L-glutamate (PG) have shown promising results reducing postoperative abdominal adhesions in experimental settings. This pilot study examined the possible pleural adhesion prevention by using the PL+PG concept after pleural surgery and its possible effect on key parameters; plasmin activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and tissue growth factor beta 1 (TGFb) in the fibrinolytic process. Methods: A total of 22 male rats were used in the study, one control group (n=10) and one experimental group (n=12). All animals underwent primary pleural surgery, the controls receiving saline in the pleural cavity and the experimental group the PL+PG solution administered by spray. The animals were evaluated on day 7. Macroscopic appearance of adhesions was evaluated by a scoring system. Histology slides of the adhesions and pleural biopsies for evaluation of PAI-1 and TGFb1 were taken on day 7. Results: A significant reduction of adhesions in the PL+PG group (p<0.05) was noted at day 7 both regarding the length and severity of adhesions. There were no significant differences in the concentration of PAI-1 and TGFb1 when comparing the two groups. Conclusions: PL+PG may be used to prevent pleural adhesions. The process of fibrinolysis, and fibrosis was though not affected after PLPG administration. PMID:24151443

Alcohol prevention at sporting events: study protocol for a quasi-experimental control group study.

PubMed

Durbeej, Natalie; Elgán, Tobias H; Jalling, Camilla; Gripenberg, Johanna

2016-06-06

Alcohol intoxication and overserving of alcohol at sporting events are of great concern, given the relationships between alcohol consumption, public disturbances, and violence. During recent years this matter has been on the agenda for Swedish policymakers, authorities and key stakeholders, with demands that actions be taken. There is promising potential for utilizing an environmental approach to alcohol prevention as a strategy to reduce the level of alcohol intoxication among spectators at sporting events. Examples of prevention strategies may be community mobilization, Responsible Beverage Service training, policy work, and improved controls and sanctions. This paper describes the design of a quasi-experimental control group study to examine the effects of a multi-component community-based alcohol intervention at matches in the Swedish Premier Football League. A baseline assessment was conducted during 2015 and at least two follow-up assessments will be conducted in 2016 and 2017. The two largest cities in Sweden are included in the study, with Stockholm as the intervention area and Gothenburg as the control area. The setting is Licensed Premises (LP) inside and outside Swedish football arenas, in addition to arena entrances. Spectators are randomly selected and invited to participate in the study by providing a breath alcohol sample as a proxy for Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC). Actors are hired and trained by an expert panel to act out a standardized scene of severe pseudo-intoxication. Four types of cross-sectional data are generated: (i) BAC levels among ≥ 4 200 spectators, frequency of alcohol service to pseudo-intoxicated patrons attempting to purchase alcohol at LP (ii) outside the arenas (≥200 attempts) and (iii) inside the arenas (≥ 200 attempts), and (iv) frequency of security staff interventions towards pseudo-intoxicated patrons attempting to enter the arenas (≥ 200 attempts). There is an urgent need nationally and internationally to

Toward competency-based curriculum: Application of workplace-based assessment tools in the National Saudi Arabian Anesthesia Training Program.

PubMed

Boker, Ama

2016-01-01

The anesthesia training program of the Saudi Commission for health specialties has introduced a developed competency-based anesthesia residency program starting from 2015 with the utilization of the workplace-based assessment (WBA) tools, namely mini-clinical exercises (mini-CEX), direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS), and case-based discussion (CBD). This work aimed to describe the process of development of anesthesia-specific list of mini-CEX, DOPS, and CBD tools within the Saudi Arabian Anesthesia Training Programs. To introduce the main concepts of formative WBA tools and to develop anesthesia-specific applications for each of the selected WBA tools, four 1-day workshops were held at the level of major training committees at eastern (Dammam), western (Jeddah), and central (Riyadh) regions in the Kingdom were conducted. Sixty-seven faculties participated in these workshops. After conduction of the four workshops, the anesthesia-specific applications setting of mini-CEX, DOPS, and CBD tools among the 5-year levels were fully described. The level of the appropriate consultation skills was divided according to the case complexity adopted from the American Society of Anesthesiologists physical classification for adult and obstetric and pediatric patient as well as the type of the targeted anesthetic procedure. WBA anesthesia-specific lists of mini-CEX, DOPS, and CBD forms were easily incorporated first into guidelines to help the first stage of implementation of formative assessment in the Saudi Arabian Anesthesia Residency Program, and this can be helpful to replicate such program within other various training programs in Saudi Arabia and abroad.

Growth on ATP elicits a P-stress response in the picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla

DOE PAGES

Whitney, LeAnn P.; Lomas, Michael W.

2016-05-11

The surface waters of oligotrophic oceans have chronically low phosphate (P i) concentrations, which renders dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) an important nutrient source. In the subtropical North Atlantic, cyanobacteria are often numerically dominant, but picoeukaryotes can dominate autotrophic biomass and productivity making them important contributors to the ocean carbon cycle. Despite their importance, little is known regarding the metabolic response of picoeukaryotes to changes in phosphorus (P) source and availability. To understand the molecular mechanisms that regulate P utilization in oligotrophic environments, we evaluated transcriptomes of the picoeukaryote Micromonas pusilla grown under P i-replete and -deficient conditions, with an additionalmore » investigation of growth on DOP in replete conditions. Genes that function in sulfolipid substitution and P i uptake increased in expression with P i-deficiency, suggesting cells were reallocating cellular P and increasing P acquisition capabilities. P i-deficient M. pusilla cells also increased alkaline phosphatase activity and reduced their cellular P content. Cells grown with DOP were able to maintain relatively high growth rates, however the transcriptomic response was more similar to the P i-deficient response than that seen in cells grown under P i-replete conditions. The results demonstrate that not all P sources are the same for growth; while M. pusilla, a model picoeukaryote, may grow well on DOP, the metabolic demand is greater than growth on P i. Lastly, these findings provide insight into the cellular strategies which may be used to support growth in a stratified future ocean predicted to favor picoeukaryotes.« less

Sustainability of the Communities That Care prevention system by coalitions participating in the Community Youth Development Study.

PubMed

Gloppen, Kari M; Arthur, Michael W; Hawkins, J David; Shapiro, Valerie B

2012-09-01

Community prevention coalitions are a common strategy to mobilize stakeholders to implement tested and effective prevention programs to promote adolescent health and well-being. This article examines the sustainability of Communities That Care (CTC) coalitions approximately 20 months after study support for the intervention ended. The Community Youth Development Study is a community-randomized trial of the CTC prevention system. Using data from 2007 and 2009 coalition leader interviews, this study reports changes in coalition activities from a period of study support for CTC (2007) to 20 months following the end of study support for CTC (2009), measured by the extent to which coalitions continued to meet specific benchmarks. Twenty months after study support for CTC implementation ended, 11 of 12 CTC coalitions in the Community Youth Development Study still existed. The 11 remaining coalitions continued to report significantly higher scores on the benchmarks of phases 2 through 5 of the CTC system than did prevention coalitions in the control communities. At the 20-month follow-up, two-thirds of the CTC coalitions reported having a paid staff person. This study found that the CTC coalitions maintained a relatively high level of implementation fidelity to the CTC system 20 months after the study support for the intervention ended. However, the downward trend in some of the measured benchmarks indicates that continued high-quality training and technical assistance may be important to ensure that CTC coalitions maintain a science-based approach to prevention, and continue to achieve public health impacts on adolescent health and behavior outcomes. Copyright © 2012 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevention of Alzheimer disease

PubMed Central

Scalco, Monica Zavaloni; van Reekum, Robert

2006-01-01

OBJECTIVE To review the evidence regarding prevention of Alzheimer disease (AD) in order to highlight the role of family medicine. QUALITY OF EVIDENCE Most of the evidence relating to prevention of AD is derived from observational (cross-sectional, case-control, or longitudinal) studies. Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is available only for blood pressure control and for hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women. MAIN MESSAGE Many preventive approaches to AD have been identified, but no RCTs support their efficacy. Evidence from RCTs supports the effectiveness of blood pressure control in reducing incidence of AD, but demonstrates that postmenopausal women’s use of estrogen is ineffective in reducing it. Observational studies suggest that some preventive approaches, such as healthy lifestyle, ongoing education, regular physical activity, and cholesterol control, play a role in prevention of AD. These approaches can and should be used for every patient because they carry no significant risk. Currently, no effective pharmacologic interventions have been researched enough to support their use in prevention of AD. CONCLUSION Health professionals should educate patients, especially patients at higher risk of AD, about preventive strategies and potentially modifiable risk factors. PMID:16529393

Phosphorus cycling in the red tide incubator region of monterey bay in response to upwelling.

PubMed

Mackey, Katherine R M; Mioni, Cécile E; Ryan, John P; Paytan, Adina

2012-01-01

This study explores the cycling of phosphorus (P) in the euphotic zone following upwelling in northeastern Monterey Bay (the Red Tide Incubator region) of coastal California, with particular emphasis on how bacteria and phytoplankton that form harmful algal blooms mediate and respond to changes in P availability. In situ measurements of nutrient concentrations, phytoplankton community composition, and cell-specific alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity (determined via enzyme-labeled fluorescence assay) were measured during three cruises. Upwelling led to a 10-fold increase in dissolved inorganic (DIP) in surface waters, reaching ∼0.5 μmol L(-1). This DIP was drawn down rapidly as upwelling relaxed over a period of 1 week. Ratios of nitrate to DIP drawdown (∼5:1, calculated as the change in nitrate divided by the change in DIP) were lower than the Redfield ratio of 16:1, suggesting that luxury P uptake was occurring as phytoplankton bloomed. Dissolved organic (DOP) remained relatively constant (∼0.3 μmol L(-1)) before and immediately following upwelling, but doubled as upwelling relaxed, likely due to phytoplankton excretion and release during grazing. This transition from a relatively high DIP:DOP ratio to lower DIP:DOP ratio was accompanied by a decline in the abundance of diatoms, which had low AP activity, toward localized, spatially heterogeneous blooms of dinoflagellates in the genera Prorocentrum, Ceratium, Dinophysis, Alexandrium, and Scrippsiella that showed high AP activity regardless of ambient DIP levels. A nutrient addition incubation experiment showed that phytoplankton growth was primarily limited by nitrate, followed by DIP and DOP, suggesting that P regulates phytoplankton physiology and competition, but is not a limiting nutrient in this region. AP activity was observed in bacteria associated with lysed cell debris and aggregates of particulate organic material, where it may serve to facilitate P regeneration, as well as affixed to

Phosphorus Cycling in the Red Tide Incubator Region of Monterey Bay in Response to Upwelling

PubMed Central

Mackey, Katherine R. M.; Mioni, Cécile E.; Ryan, John P.; Paytan, Adina

2012-01-01

This study explores the cycling of phosphorus (P) in the euphotic zone following upwelling in northeastern Monterey Bay (the Red Tide Incubator region) of coastal California, with particular emphasis on how bacteria and phytoplankton that form harmful algal blooms mediate and respond to changes in P availability. In situ measurements of nutrient concentrations, phytoplankton community composition, and cell-specific alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity (determined via enzyme-labeled fluorescence assay) were measured during three cruises. Upwelling led to a 10-fold increase in dissolved inorganic (DIP) in surface waters, reaching ∼0.5 μmol L−1. This DIP was drawn down rapidly as upwelling relaxed over a period of 1 week. Ratios of nitrate to DIP drawdown (∼5:1, calculated as the change in nitrate divided by the change in DIP) were lower than the Redfield ratio of 16:1, suggesting that luxury P uptake was occurring as phytoplankton bloomed. Dissolved organic (DOP) remained relatively constant (∼0.3 μmol L−1) before and immediately following upwelling, but doubled as upwelling relaxed, likely due to phytoplankton excretion and release during grazing. This transition from a relatively high DIP:DOP ratio to lower DIP:DOP ratio was accompanied by a decline in the abundance of diatoms, which had low AP activity, toward localized, spatially heterogeneous blooms of dinoflagellates in the genera Prorocentrum, Ceratium, Dinophysis, Alexandrium, and Scrippsiella that showed high AP activity regardless of ambient DIP levels. A nutrient addition incubation experiment showed that phytoplankton growth was primarily limited by nitrate, followed by DIP and DOP, suggesting that P regulates phytoplankton physiology and competition, but is not a limiting nutrient in this region. AP activity was observed in bacteria associated with lysed cell debris and aggregates of particulate organic material, where it may serve to facilitate P regeneration, as well as affixed to

[Delirium Prevention].

PubMed

Restrepo Bernal, Diana; Niño García, Jorge Andrés; Ortiz Estévez, Daniel Eduardo

2016-01-01

Delirium is the most prevalent neuropsychiatric syndrome in the general hospital. Its presence is a marker of poor prognosis for patients. Its prevention could be the most effective strategy for reducing its frequency and its complications. To review recent findings and strategies for the prevention of delirium. A non-systematic review of scientific articles published in the last ten years in Spanish and English. A search was made in databases such as MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Ovid, and ScienceDirect, for articles that included the terms, delirium and prevention. Identification of predisposing and precipitating factors for delirium and a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the onset of delirium have enabled the implementation of various pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies in patients at high risk to develop hospital delirium. The studies to prevent delirium have focused on surgical patients. The current evidence supports the daily implementation of non-pharmacological measures to prevent delirium, as they are easy and cost effective. The available evidence is still limited to recommend the daily use of pharmacological strategies in delirium prophylaxis, and there is a consensus against the modest use of antipsychotic drugs in surgical patients and dexmedetomidine in patients in intensive care. New high-quality clinical trials and studies involving non-surgical patients are needed to provide more evidence about this subject. Copyright © 2015 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM

EPA Science Inventory

The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was a major clinical trial, or research study, aimed at discovering whether either diet and exercise or the oral diabetes drug metformin (Glucophage) could prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes in people with impaired glucose toleranc...

Religious communities and HIV prevention: an intervention-study using a human rights-based approach

PubMed Central

Paiva, V.; Garcia, J.; Rios, L.F.; Santos, A.O.; Terto, V.; Munõz-Laboy, M.

2011-01-01

Religious communities have been a challenge to HIV prevention globally. Focusing on the acceptability component of the right to health, this intervention study examined how local Catholic, Evangelical and Afro-Brazilian religious communities can collaborate to foster young people’s sexual health and ensure their access to comprehensive HIV prevention in their communities in Brazil. This article describes the process of a three-stage sexual health promotion and HIV prevention initiative that used a multicultural human rights approach to intervention. Methods included 27 in-depth interviews with religious authorities on sexuality, AIDS prevention and human rights, and training 18 young people as research-agents, who surveyed 177 youth on the same issues using self-administered questionnaires. The results, analysed using a rights-based perspective on health and the vulnerability framework, were discussed in daylong interfaith workshops. Emblematic of the collaborative process, workshops are the focus of the analysis. Our findings suggest that this human rights framework is effective in increasing inter-religious tolerance and in providing a collective understanding of the sexuality and prevention needs of youth from different religious communities, and also serves as a platform for the expansion of state AIDS programmes based on laical principles. PMID:20373192

Relapse and Recurrence Prevention in the Treatment for Adolescents with Depression Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simons, Anne D.; Rohde, Paul; Kennard, Betsy D.; Robins, Michele

2005-01-01

Relapse and recurrence in adolescent depression are important problems. Much less is known about relapse prevention compared to the acute treatment of depression in adolescents. Based on previous research, theoretical predictions, and clinical experience, the Treatment for Adolescents With Depression Study (TADS) protocol was designed to determine…

JNCI and Cancer Prevention

PubMed Central

Ghosh, Sharmistha; Kramer, Barnett S.

2015-01-01

The Journal of the National Cancer Institute (JNCI), with its broad coverage of bench research, epidemiologic studies, and clinical trials, has a long history of publishing practice-changing studies in cancer prevention and public health. These include studies of tobacco cessation, chemoprevention, and nutrition. The landmark Breast Cancer Prevention Trial (BCPT)—the first large trial to prove efficacy of a preventive medication for a major malignancy—was published in the Journal, as were key ancillary papers to the BCPT. Even when JNCI was not the publication venue for the main trial outcomes, conceptual and design discussions leading to the trial as well as critical follow-up analyses based on trial data from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) and the Selenium and Vitamin E Chemoprevention Trial (SELECT) were published in the Journal. The Journal has also published important evidence on very charged topics, such as the purported link between abortion and breast cancer risk. In summary, JNCI has been at the forefront of numerous major publications related to cancer prevention. PMID:25713150

The status of interprofessional education and interprofessional prevention education in academic health centers: a national baseline study.

PubMed

Greer, Annette G; Clay, Maria; Blue, Amy; Evans, Clyde H; Garr, David

2014-05-01

Given the emphasis on prevention in U.S. health care reform efforts, the importance of interprofessional education (IPE) that prepares health professions students to be part of effective health care teams is greater than ever. This study examined the prevalence and nature of IPE and interprofessional (IP) prevention education in U.S. academic health centers. The authors extracted a 10-item survey from the longer published IPE Assessment and Planning Instrument. In September 2010, they sent the survey to 346 health professions leaders in health sciences schools and colleges at 100 academic health centers. These institutions were identified via the online membership list of the Association of Academic Health Centers. The authors conducted descriptive statistical analysis and cross-tabulations. Surveys were completed by 127 contacts at 68 universities in 31 states and the District of Columbia. IPE was more prevalent than IP prevention education in all categories of measurement. Respondents affirmed existence of IPE in courses (85.0%) and in clinical rotations/internships (80.3%). The majority reported personnel with responsibility for IPE (68.5%) or prevention education (59.8%) at their institutional unit, and 59.8% reported an IPE office or center. This study provides evidence that IPE and IP prevention education exist in academic health centers, but additional attention should be paid to the development of IP prevention education. Sample syllabi, job descriptions, and policies may be available to support adoption of IPE and IP prevention education. Further effort is needed to increase the integration of IP and prevention education into practice.

SHPPS 2006: School Health Policies and Programs Study--Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Prevention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2007

2007-01-01

The School Health Policies and Programs Study (SHPPS) is a national survey periodically conducted to assess school health policies and programs at the state, district, school, and classroom levels. This brief reports study results in the area of sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention, covering the following topics (1) Health Education; and…

Youth empowerment solutions for violence prevention.

PubMed

Reischl, Thomas M; Zimmerman, Marc A; Morrel-Samuels, Susan; Franzen, Susan P; Faulk, Monique; Eisman, Andria B; Roberts, Everett

2011-12-01

The limited success of youth violence prevention interventions suggests that effective prevention needs to address causes at multiple levels of analysis and empower youth in developing and implementing prevention programs. In this article, we review published studies of youth violence prevention efforts that engage youth in developing or implementing violence prevention activities. The reviewed studies suggest the promise of youth empowerment strategies and the need for systematic outcome studies of empowerment programs. After reviewing empowerment theory applied to youth violence prevention programs, we present a case study of the Youth Empowerment Solutions (YES) for Peaceful Communities program. YES engages middle-school youth in an after-school and summer program that includes a culturally tailored character development curriculum and empowers the youth to plan and implement community improvement projects with assistance from adult neighborhood advocates. The case study focuses on outcome evaluation results and presents evidence of the YES program effects on community-level outcomes (eg, property improvements, violent crime incidents) and on individual-level outcomes (eg, conflict avoidance, victimization). The literature review and the case study suggest the promise of engaging and empowering youth to plan and implement youth violence prevention programs.

Prevention of influenza among travellers attending at a UK travel clinic: beliefs and perceptions. A cross‐sectional study

PubMed Central

Masuet‐Aumatell, Cristina; Toovey, Stephen; Zuckerman, Jane N.

2012-01-01

Please cite this paper as: Masuet‐Aumatell et al. (2012) Prevention of influenza among travellers attending at a UK travel clinic: beliefs and perceptions. A cross‐sectional study. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 7(4), 574–583. Background  Travellers’ compliance with measures to prevent influenza through the use of antivirals and influenza vaccine remains very poor despite influenza being one of the commonest travel and vaccine‐preventable diseases. A study was undertaken to assess travellers’ beliefs, perceptions and intentions to take antivirals for the treatment and prevention of influenza during the H1N1 pandemic. Methods  A cross‐sectional survey (n = 96) of travellers who attended the Royal Free Travel Health Centre, London, UK was undertaken in September 2009. A self‐administered questionnaire was completed by a traveller in advance of their pre‐travel health consultation. Logistic regression identified variables independently associated with compliance. Results  Influenza vaccination uptake for the 5 years preceding the study was found to be 20·8%. This was statistically significantly higher for older travellers and those with underlying health conditions (P < 0·005). Mean intention to comply with antiviral drugs on a preventive and therapeutic basis was 58% and 72%, respectively, and this varied markedly with age and with dispensed antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. Conclusion  This study identifies some beliefs and perceptions travellers consider with regard to the therapeutic and preventive influenza use of antivirals during the H1N1 pandemic; it underscores the importance of travellers receiving hemisphere appropriate influenza vaccination. The external validity of these study findings requires further corroboration involving other travel clinics and different cohorts of travellers during seasonal activity or outbreaks of influenza. These findings could guide the development of future strategies for the

Stress Prevention@Work: a study protocol for the evaluation of a multifaceted integral stress prevention strategy to prevent employee stress in a healthcare organization: a cluster controlled trial.

PubMed

Hoek, Rianne J A; Havermans, Bo M; Houtman, Irene L D; Brouwers, Evelien P M; Heerkens, Yvonne F; Zijlstra-Vlasveld, Moniek C; Anema, Johannes R; van der Beek, Allard J; Boot, Cécile R L

2017-07-17

Adequate implementation of work-related stress management interventions can reduce or prevent work-related stress and sick leave in organizations. We developed a multifaceted integral stress-prevention strategy for organizations from several sectors that includes a digital platform and collaborative learning network. The digital platform contains a stepwise protocol to implement work-related stress-management interventions. It includes stress screeners, interventions and intervention providers to facilitate access to and the selection of matching work-related stress-management interventions. The collaborative learning network, including stakeholders from various organizations, plans meetings focussing on an exchange of experiences and good practices among organizations for the implementation of stress prevention measures. This paper describes the design of an integral stress-prevention strategy, Stress Prevention@Work, and the protocol for the evaluation of: 1) the effects of the strategy on perceived stress and work-related outcomes, and 2) the barriers and facilitators for implementation of the strategy. The effectiveness of Stress Prevention@Work will be evaluated in a cluster controlled trial, in a large healthcare organization in the Netherlands, at six and 12 months. An independent researcher will match teams on working conditions and size and allocate the teams to the intervention or control group. Teams in the intervention group will be offered Stress Prevention@Work. For each intervention team, one employee is responsible for applying the strategy within his/her team using the digital platform and visiting the collaborative learning network. Using a waiting list design, the control group will be given access to the strategy after 12 months. The primary outcome is the employees' perceived stress measured by the stress subscale of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Secondary outcome measures are job demands, job resources and the number

Developing and implementing an integrated delirium prevention system of care: a theory driven, participatory research study.

PubMed

Godfrey, Mary; Smith, Jane; Green, John; Cheater, Francine; Inouye, Sharon K; Young, John B

2013-09-03

Delirium is a common complication for older people in hospital. Evidence suggests that delirium incidence in hospital may be reduced by about a third through a multi-component intervention targeted at known modifiable risk factors. We describe the research design and conceptual framework underpinning it that informed the development of a novel delirium prevention system of care for acute hospital wards. Particular focus of the study was on developing an implementation process aimed at embedding practice change within routine care delivery. We adopted a participatory action research approach involving staff, volunteers, and patient and carer representatives in three northern NHS Trusts in England. We employed Normalization Process Theory to explore knowledge and ward practices on delirium and delirium prevention. We established a Development Team in each Trust comprising senior and frontline staff from selected wards, and others with a potential role or interest in delirium prevention. Data collection included facilitated workshops, relevant documents/records, qualitative one-to-one interviews and focus groups with multiple stakeholders and observation of ward practices. We used grounded theory strategies in analysing and synthesising data. Awareness of delirium was variable among staff with no attention on delirium prevention at any level; delirium prevention was typically neither understood nor perceived as meaningful. The busy, chaotic and challenging ward life rhythm focused primarily on diagnostics, clinical observations and treatment. Ward practices pertinent to delirium prevention were undertaken inconsistently. Staff welcomed the possibility of volunteers being engaged in delirium prevention work, but existing systems for volunteer support were viewed as a barrier. Our evolving conception of an integrated model of delirium prevention presented major implementation challenges flowing from minimal understanding of delirium prevention and securing engagement of

A Stuttering Education and Bullying Awareness and Prevention Resource: A Feasibility Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Langevin, Marilyn; Prasad, N. G. Narasimha

2012-01-01

Purpose: This pretest-posttest study examined the feasibility of using a curriculum-level stuttering education and bullying awareness and prevention program to improve peer attitudes toward children who stutter and attitudes toward bullying. Knowledge about potential responses to bullying and students' liking of the program also were examined.…

Observational study to assess pregnant women's knowledge and behaviour to prevent toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and cytomegalovirus.

PubMed

Pereboom, Monique T R; Manniën, Judith; Spelten, Evelien R; Schellevis, François G; Hutton, Eileen K

2013-04-30

Toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and cytomegalovirus (CMV) can negatively affect pregnancy outcomes, but can be prevented by simple precautions of pregnant women. Literature suggests that pregnant women are not always adequately informed by their care provider about preventable infectious diseases and most pregnant women have a low level of knowledge regarding these topics. There is not much information about the actual risk behaviour of pregnant women. The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge and risk behaviour related to toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and CMV infection prevention in pregnant women. A cross-sectional survey among pregnant women from twenty midwifery practices across the Netherlands that participated in the DELIVER study, between October 2010 and December 2010. The questionnaire items covered respondents' knowledge of preventive practices in general, risk behaviour, and sources of received information. Of the 1,097 respondents (response 66.0%), 75.3% had heard, read or seen information about toxoplasmosis, 61.7% about listeriosis and 12.5% about CMV. The majority reported having heard about these infections from their care providers or read about these in printed media or on the Internet. Respondents showed limited knowledge about preventive practices for toxoplasmosis, listeriosis or CMV infection. Regarding toxoplasmosis, risk behaviour was more prevalent among respondents who had a high level of education, had the Dutch nationality, did not take folic acid during their first trimester, and had ever worked in a children day-care setting. Regarding listeriosis, risk behaviour was more prevalent among respondents who where in their third trimester. Regarding CMV infections, risk behaviour was less prevalent among respondents who were in their third trimester of pregnancy. Of the respondents, a substantial part did not have knowledge about preventive practices to avoid listeriosis, toxoplasmosis and CMV infections during pregnancy. Many pregnant

CORONARY DIET INTERVENTION WITH OLIVE OIL AND CARDIOVASCULAR PREVENTION STUDY (THE CORDIOPREV STUDY): RATIONALE, METHODS, AND BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS

PubMed Central

Delgado-Lista, Javier; Perez-Martinez, Pablo; Garcia-Rios, Antonio; Alcala-Diaz, Juan F; Perez-Caballero, Ana I.; Gomez-Delgado, Francisco; Fuentes, Francisco; Quintana-Navarro, Gracia; Lopez-Segura, Fernando; Ortiz-Morales, Ana M; Delgado-Casado, Nieves; Yubero-Serrano, Elena; Camargo, Antonio; Marin, Carmen; Rodriguez-Cantalejo, Fernando; Gomez-Luna, Purificacion; Ordovas, Jose M; Lopez-Miranda, Jose; Perez-Jimenez, Francisco

2016-01-01

Coronary heart disease (CHD) represents a major global health burden. However, despite the well-known influence that dietary habits exert over the progression of this disease, there are no well-established and scientifically sound dietary approaches to prevent the onset of clinical outcomes in secondary prevention. The objective of the CORonary Diet Intervention with Olive oil and cardiovascular PREVention study (CORDIOPREV study, clinical trials number NCT00924937) is to compare the ability of a Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil versus a low-fat diet to influence the composite incidence of cardiovascular events after 7 years, in subjects with documented CHD at baseline. For this purpose, we enrolled 1002 coronary patients from Spain. Baseline assessment (2009–12) included detailed interviews and measurements to assess dietary, social and biological variables. Results of baseline characteristics: The CORDIOPREV study in Spain describes a population with a high BMI (37.2% overweight and 56.3% obesity), with a median of LDL-cholesterol of 88.5 mg/dL (70.6% of the patients having <100 mg/dL, and 20.3% patients < 70 mg/dL). 9.6% of the participants were active smokers, and 64.4% were former smokers. Metabolic Syndrome was present in 58% of this population. To sum up, we describe here the rationale, methods and baseline characteristics of the CORDIOPREV study, which will test for the first time the efficacy of a Mediterranean Diet rich in extra virgin olive oil as compared with a low-fat diet on the incidence of CHD recurrence in a long term follow-up study. PMID:27297848

Health promotion, wellness, and prevention in hand therapy: A survey study.

PubMed

Lucado, Ann M; Taylor, David W; Wendland, Deborah M; Connors, Brian

Descriptive study. Noncommunicable diseases including diabetes and cardiovascular disease are associated with increased complications and cost of health care. To describe beliefs and extent to which hand therapists include health promotion, wellness, and prevention (HPWP) in practice and to elucidate barriers to the incorporation of HPWP. A 38-question survey evaluating hand therapists' beliefs, practice of HPWP, and barriers was sent to American Society of Hand Therapists members. About 270 American Society of Hand Therapists members participated. Respondents believed they had a role in HPWP, including occupational (95%), physical (92%), emotional (87%), and psychological (84%) factors and instrumental activities of daily living management (98%). Physical activity is most frequently addressed (42%), whereas other health behaviors are rarely addressed. Time, patient interest, and resources were among identified barriers. The importance of health promotion and disease prevention practice is being recognized as critical to successful health outcomes. The study results suggest the need to develop HPWP educational programming for hand therapists and the need to consider expansion of understanding of HPWP initiatives and subsequent benefits to patients. 5. Copyright © 2016 Hanley & Belfus. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The cost of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment in hospitals and nursing homes in Flanders: A cost-of-illness study.

PubMed

Demarré, Liesbet; Verhaeghe, Sofie; Annemans, Lieven; Van Hecke, Ann; Grypdonck, Maria; Beeckman, Dimitri

2015-07-01

The economic impact of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment is high. The results of cost-of-illness studies can assist the planning, allocation, and priority setting of healthcare expenditures to improve the implementation of preventive measures. Data on the cost of current practice of pressure ulcer prevention or treatment in Flanders, a region of Belgium, is lacking. To examine the cost of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment in an adult population in hospitals and nursing homes from the healthcare payer perspective. A cost-of-illness study was performed using a bottom-up approach. Hospitals and nursing homes in Flanders, a region of Belgium. Data were collected in a series of prospective multicentre cross-sectional studies between 2008 and 2013. Data collection included data on risk assessment, pressure ulcer prevalence, preventive measures, unit cost of materials for prevention and treatment, nursing time measurements for activities related to pressure ulcer prevention and treatment, and nursing wages. The cost of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment in hospitals and nursing homes was calculated as annual cost for Flanders, per patient, and per patient per day. The mean (SD) cost for pressure ulcer prevention was €7.88 (8.21) per hospitalised patient at risk per day and €2.15 (3.10) per nursing home resident at risk per day. The mean (SD) cost of pressure ulcer prevention for patients and residents identified as not at risk for pressure ulcer development was €1.44 (4.26) per day in hospitals and €0.50 (1.61) per day in nursing homes. The main cost driver was the cost of labour, responsible for 79-85% of the cost of prevention. The mean (SD) cost of local treatment per patient per day varied between €2.34 (1.14) and €77.36 (35.95) in hospitals, and between €2.42 (1.15) and €16.18 (4.93) in nursing homes. Related to methodological differences between studies, the cost of pressure ulcer prevention and treatment in hospitals and nursing

Training with Differential Outcomes Enhances Discriminative Learning and Visuospatial Recognition Memory in Children Born Prematurely

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martinez, Lourdes; Mari-Beffa, Paloma; Roldan-Tapia, Dolores; Ramos-Lizana, Julio; Fuentes, Luis J.; Estevez, Angeles F.

2012-01-01

Previous studies have demonstrated that discriminative learning is facilitated when a particular outcome is associated with each relation to be learned. When this training procedure is applied (the differential outcome procedure; DOP), learning is faster and more accurate than when the more common non-differential outcome procedure is used. This…

The relation between the effect of a subhypnotic dose of thiopental on claw pain threshold in rats and adrenalin, noradrenalin and dopamine levels

PubMed Central

Aksoy, Mehmet; Ahiskalioglu, Ali; Ince, Ilker; Celik, Mine; Dostbil, Aysenur; Kuyrukluyildiz, Ufuk; Altuner, Durdu; Kurt, Nezahat; Suleyman, Halis

2015-01-01

Thiopental sodium (TPS) needs to be applied together with adrenalin in order to establish its analgesic effect in general anesthesia. We aimed to investigate the effect of TPS on the claw pain threshold in rats and evaluated its relationship with endogenous adrenalin (ADR), noradrenalin (NDR), and dopamine (DOP) levels. Intact and adrenalectomized rats were used in the experiment. Intact animals were divided into the following groups: 15 mg/kg TPS (TS), 0.3 mg/kg ADR+15 mg/kg TPS (ATS) and 0.3 mg/kg ADR alone (ADR). Adrenalectomized animals were divided into the following groups: 15 mg/kg TPS (A-TS), 0.3 mg/kg ADR+15 mg/kg TPS (A-ATS) and 0.3 mg/kg ADR alone (A-ADR). Claw pain threshold and blood ADR, NDR, and DOP levels were measured. The TS group’s claw pain threshold was found low. However, the claw pain thresholds of the ATS and ADR groups increased significantly. In the A-TS group, the pain threshold decreased compared with normal, and in the A-ATS and A-ADR groups, the pain threshold increased. TPS reduced the blood ADR levels in intact rats; however, no significant changes were observed in the NDR and DOP levels. #TPS provides hyperalgesia by reducing the production of ADR in rats. The present study shows that to achieve analgesic activity, TPS needs to be applied together with ADR. PMID:26211784

Learning and Recall of Medical Treatment-Related Information in Older Adults Using the Differential Outcomes Procedure

PubMed Central

Plaza, Victoria; Molina, Michael; Fuentes, Luis J.; Estévez, Angeles F.

2018-01-01

It has recently been reported that the differential outcomes procedure (DOP) might be one of the therapeutical techniques focused at promoting autonomy in the elderly to deal with their medical issues. Molina et al. (2015) found that a group of healthy young adults improved their learning and long-term retention of six disorder/pill associations when each relationship to be learned was associated with a particular reinforcer (the differential outcomes condition) compared to when they were randomly administered (the non-differential outcomes condition). In the present study, we extend these findings to older adults who usually show difficulties to remember to take their medications as prescribed. Participants were asked to learn the association between three pills and the specific time at the day when they had to take each medication. Two memory tests were also performed 1 h and 1 week after completing the training phase. Results showed a faster learning of the task and long-term retention of the previously learned associations (pill/time of day) when differential outcomes were used. Furthermore, the older adults’ performance in the learning and memory phases did not differ from that of the younger adults in the DOP condition. These findings demonstrate that this procedure can help elderly people to ameliorate not only their learning, but also their long-term memory difficulties, suggesting the potential for the DOP to promote adherence to treatment in this population. PMID:29491846

A polysaccharide of Dendrobium officinale ameliorates H2O2-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyocytes via PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways.

PubMed

Zhang, Jing-Yi; Guo, Ying; Si, Jin-Ping; Sun, Xiao-Bo; Sun, Gui-Bo; Liu, Jing-Jing

2017-11-01

Dendrobium officinale is one valuable traditional Chinese medicine, which has skyscraping medicinal value. Polysaccharide is the main active ingredient in D. officinale; its antioxidant activity is a hot research topic nowadays. Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathological progress of a variety of cardiovascular disease, as one of key factors of cardiomyocyte apoptosis. This research adopts a model of H 2 O 2 induction-H9c2 cardiomyocytes apoptosis, aiming to study the effect of Dendrobium officinale Polysaccharide (DOP-GY) for cardiomyocyte apoptosis caused by oxidative stress and its possible mechanism. Our results showed that pretreatment of DOP-GY (low dose: 6.25μg/mL, medium dose: 12.5μg/mL, high dose: 25μg/mL) followed by a 2h incubation with 200μM H 2 O 2 elevated the survival rate, cutted the LDH leakage, reduced lipid peroxidation damage, improved the activity of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes. In addition, the pretreatment of DOP-GY significantly inhibited the production of ROS, declined of the mitochondrial membrane potential, down-regulated pro-apoptosis protein and up-regulated anti-apoptosis protein. The protective effect was correlated with the PI3K/Akt and MAPK signal pathway. Collectively, these observations suggest that DOY-GY has the potential to exert cardioprotective effects against H 2 O 2 -induced H9c2 cardiomyocyte apoptosis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Engaging Community Businesses in HIV Prevention: A Feasibility Study

PubMed Central

Rovniak, Liza S.; Hovell, Melbourne F.; Hofstetter, C. Richard; Blumberg, Elaine J.; Sipan, Carol L.; Batista, Marcia F.; Martinez-Donate, Ana P.; Mulvihill, Mary M.; Ayala, Guadalupe X.

2009-01-01

Purpose To explore the feasibility of engaging community businesses in HIV prevention. Design Randomly selected business owners/managers were asked to display discreetly wrapped condoms and brochures provided free-of-charge for 3 months. Assessments were conducted at baseline, mid-, and post-program. Customer feedback was obtained through an online survey. Setting San Diego, California neighborhood with a high rate of AIDS. Subjects Fifty-one business owners/managers representing 10 retail categories, and 52 customers. Measures Participation rates, descriptive characteristics, number of condoms and brochures distributed, customer feedback, business owners'/managers' program satisfaction and willingness to provide future support for HIV prevention. Analysis Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, Fisher's exact, and McNemar's tests were used to analyze data. Results The 20 business owners/managers (39%) who agreed to distribute condoms and brochures reported fewer years in business and more employees than those who agreed only to distribute brochures (20%) or refused to participate (41%), p <.05. Bars were the easiest of ten retail categories to recruit. Businesses with more employees and customers distributed more condoms and brochures, p < .05. More than 90% of customers supported distributing condoms and brochures in businesses and 96% of business owners/managers described their program experience as “positive.” Conclusion Businesses are willing to distribute condoms and brochures to prevent HIV. Policies to increase business participation in HIV prevention should be developed and tested. PMID:20465150

Pollution prevention and control procedure case study: an application for petroleum refineries.

PubMed

Rodríguez, Encarnación; Martínez, Jose-Luis

2005-06-01

There is global environmental concern about the pollution from industries and other organizations that should not only be controlled but also prevented. Many alternatives are available to those in charge of environmental protection, but they should be able to draw on a systematic procedure to help implement prevention and control measures. At present, there are three immediate tasks: defining the objective of any environmental study, identifying the potential pollution sources, and selecting alternatives to these sources. However, it is necessary to evaluate these alternatives by using as large a number of criteria as possible and making them cumulative so as to enable the classification and selection of the best available techniques for each pollution source. The petroleum refining industry plays an important role in the developed economies and also has a potential for pollution generation that must be controlled. The best solution for all (i.e., petroleum companies, the public, and the environment) is pollution prevention, because this option will protect all of them and will also reduce costs in terms of lower raw materials consumption as well as reducing potential fines. The procedure we have presented in this article has been applied successfully.

Identifying Patterns in Implementation of Hospital Pressure Ulcer Prevention Programs: A Multisite Qualitative Study.

PubMed

Soban, Lynn M; Finley, Erin P; Miltner, Rebecca S

2016-01-01

To describe the presence or absence of key components of hospital pressure ulcer (PU) prevention programs in 6 acute care hospitals. Multisite comparative case study. Using purposeful selection based on PU rates (high vs low) and hospital size, 6 hospitals within the Veterans Health Administration health care system were invited to participate. Key informant interviews (n = 48) were conducted in each of the 6 participating hospitals among individuals playing key roles in PU prevention: senior nursing leadership (n = 9), nurse manager (n = 7), wound care specialist (n = 6), frontline RNs (n = 26). Qualitative data were collected during face-to-face, semistructured interviews. Interview protocols were tailored to each interviewee's role with a core set of common questions covering 3 major content areas: (1) practice environment (eg, policies and wound care specialists), (2) current prevention practices (eg, conduct of PU risk assessment and skin inspection), and (3) barriers to PU prevention. We conducted structured coding of 5 key components of PU prevention programs and cross-case analysis to identify patterns in operationalization and implementation of program components across hospitals based on facility size and PU rates (low vs high). All hospitals had implemented all PU prevention program components. Component operationalization varied considerably across hospitals. Wound care specialists were integral to the operationalization of the 4 other program components examined; however, staffing levels and work assignments of wound care specialists varied widely. Patterns emerged among hospitals with low and high PU rates with respect to wound care specialist staffing, data monitoring, and staff education. We found hospital-level variations in PU prevention programs. Wound care specialist staffing may represent a potential point of leverage in achieving other PU program components, particularly performance monitoring and staff education.

Use of New Technologies in the Prevention of Suicide in Europe: An Exploratory Study

PubMed Central

Delgado, Carmen; Sánchez-Prada, Andrés; Pérez-López, Mercedes; Franco-Martín, Manuel A

2017-01-01

formats suggesting that the cultural characteristics of the country should be taken into account. Conclusions New technologies are much appreciated resources; however they are not often underused in the field of suicide prevention. The results of this exploratory study show that new technologies are indeed useful resources and should be incorporated into suicide prevention programs. PMID:28655705

The Association of Health Literacy With Preventable Emergency Department Visits: A Cross-sectional Study.

PubMed

Balakrishnan, Meenakshi P; Herndon, Jill Boylston; Zhang, Jingnan; Payton, Thomas; Shuster, Jonathan; Carden, Donna L

2017-09-01

Policymakers argue that emergency department (ED) visits for conditions preventable with high-quality outpatient care contribute to waste in the healthcare system. However, access to ambulatory care is uneven, especially for vulnerable populations like minorities, the poor, and those with limited health literacy. The impact of limited health literacy on ED visits that are preventable with timely, high-quality ambulatory care is unknown. The objective was to determine the association of health literacy with preventable ED visits. We conducted an observational cross-sectional study of potentially preventable ED visits (outcome) among adults (≥18 years old) in an ED serving an urban community. We assessed health literacy (predictor) through structured interviews with the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM). We recorded age, sex, race, employment, payer, marital and health status, and number of comorbidities through structured interviews or electronic record review. We identified potentially preventable ED visits in the 2 years before the index ED visit by applying Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality technical specifications to identify ambulatory care sensitive conditions using ED discharge diagnoses in hospital administrative data. We used Poisson regression to evaluate the number of preventable ED visits among patients with limited (REALM < 61) versus adequate (REALM ≥ 61) health literacy after adjusting for covariates. Of 1,201 participants, 709 (59%) were female, 370 (31%) were African American, mean age was 41.6 years, and 394 (33%) had limited health literacy. Of 4,444 total ED visits, 423 (9.5%) were potentially preventable. Of these, 260 (61%) resulted in hospital admission and 163 (39%) were treat and release. After covariates were adjusted for, patients with limited literacy had 2.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.7-3.1) times the number of potentially preventable ED visits resulting in hospital admission compared to

Laboratory Studies on Weight Control and Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome by Green Tea1

PubMed Central

Sudathip, Sae-tan; Grove, Kimberly A.; Lambert, Joshua D.

2011-01-01

Green tea (Camellia sinensis, Theaceace) is the second most popular beverage in the world and has been extensively studied for its putative disease preventive effects. Green tea is characterized by the presence of a high concentrations of polyphenolic compounds known as catechins, with (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) being the most abundant and most well-studied. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex condition that is defined by the presence of elevated waist circumference, dysglycemia, elevated blood pressure, decrease serum high density lipoprotein-associated cholesterol, and increased serum triglycerides. Studies in both in vitro and laboratory animal models have examined the preventive effects of green tea and EGCG against the symptoms of MetS. Overall, the results of these studies have been promising and demonstrate that green tea and EGCG have preventive effects in both genetic and dietary models of obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia. Various mechanisms have been proposed based on these studies and include: modulation of dietary fat absorption and metabolism, increased glucose utilization, decreased de novo lipogenesis, enhanced vascular responsiveness, and antioxidative effects. In the present review, we discuss the current state of the science with regard to laboratory studies on green tea and MetS. We attempt to critically evaluate the available data and point out areas for future research. Although there is a considerable amount of data available, questions remain in terms of the primary mechanism(s) of action, the dose-response relationships involved, and the best way to translate the results to human intervention studies. PMID:21193040

Effects of the Saluda Prevention Program: A Review of Controlled Evaluation Studies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Espada-Sánchez, José P.; Hernández-Serrano, Olga

2015-01-01

The objective of the present study is to review the evidence on the effectiveness concerning the Saluda program, a school-based substance use prevention protocol used amongst adolescents. We provide a description of the program content and the results from nine controlled trials evaluating the program effectiveness. Participants were Spanish…

Healthy Families Study: Design of a Childhood Obesity Prevention Trial for Hispanic Families

PubMed Central

Zoorob, Roger; Buchowski, Maciej; Beech, Bettina M.; Canedo, Juan R.; Chandrasekhar, Rameela; Akohoue, Sylvie; Hull, Pamela C.

2013-01-01

Background The childhood obesity epidemic disproportionately affects Hispanics. This paper reports on the design of the ongoing Healthy Families Study, a randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of a community-based, behavioral family intervention to prevent excessive weight gain in Hispanic children using a community-based participatory research approach. Methods The study will enroll 272 Hispanic families with children ages 5–7 residing in greater Nashville, Tennessee, United States. Families are randomized to the active weight gain prevention intervention or an alternative intervention focused on oral health. Lay community health promoters implement the interventions primarily in Spanish in a community center. The active intervention was adapted from the We Can! parent program to be culturally-targeted for Hispanic families and for younger children. This 12-month intervention promotes healthy eating behaviors, increased physical activity, and decreased sedentary behavior, with an emphasis on parental modeling and experiential learning for children. Families attend eight bi-monthly group sessions during four months then receive information and/or support by phone or mail each month for eight months. The primary outcome is change in children’s body mass index. Secondary outcomes are changes in children’s waist circumference, dietary behaviors, preferences for fruits and vegetables, physical activity, and screen time. Results Enrollment and data collection are in progress. Conclusion This study will contribute valuable evidence on efficacy of a childhood obesity prevention intervention targeting Hispanic families with implications for reducing disparities. PMID:23624172

Effectiveness of a community-based program for suicide prevention among elders with early-stage dementia: A controlled observational study.

PubMed

Kim, Jong-Pill; Yang, Jinhyang

The purpose of this study was to develop a small-group-focused suicide prevention program for elders with early-stage dementia and to assess its effects. This was a quasi-experimental study with a control group pretest-posttest design. A total of 62 elders diagnosed with early-stage dementia who were receiving care services at nine daycare centers in J City Korea participated in this study. The experimental group participated in the suicide prevention program twice a week for 5 weeks with a pretest and two posttests The developed suicide prevention program had a significant effect on the perceived health status, social support, depression, and suicidal ideation of elders with early-stage dementia. Nurses should integrate risk factors such as depression and protective factors such as health status and social support into a suicide prevention program. This community-based program in geriatric nursing practice can be effective in preventing suicide among elders with early-stage dementia. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Prevention, Not Punishment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DuPont Robert L.

2003-01-01

Describes eight suggestions for implementing a drug-testing program based on study of nine successful programs: Stress student health and safety, make it part of comprehensive education and prevention program, get it in writing, protect student privacy, focus on prevention, not punishment, involve parents and community from the start, evaluate and…

Combining biomedical preventions for HIV: Vaccines with pre-exposure prophylaxis, microbicides or other HIV preventions

PubMed Central

McNicholl, Janet M.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Biomedical preventions for HIV, such as vaccines, microbicides or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with antiretroviral drugs, can each only partially prevent HIV-1 infection in most human trials. Oral PrEP is now FDA approved for HIV-prevention in high risk groups, but partial adherence reduces efficacy. If combined as biomedical preventions (CBP) an HIV vaccine could provide protection when PrEP adherence is low and PrEP could prevent vaccine breakthroughs. Other types of PrEP or microbicides may also be partially protective. When licensed, first generation HIV vaccines are likely to be partially effective. Individuals at risk for HIV may receive an HIV vaccine combined with other biomedical preventions, in series or in parallel, in clinical trials or as part of standard of care, with the goal of maximally increasing HIV prevention. In human studies, it is challenging to determine which preventions are best combined, how they interact and how effective they are. Animal models can determine CBP efficacy, whether additive or synergistic, the efficacy of different products and combinations, dose, timing and mechanisms. CBP studies in macaques have shown that partially or minimally effective candidate HIV vaccines combined with partially effective oral PrEP, vaginal PrEP or microbicide generally provided greater protection than either prevention alone against SIV or SHIV challenges. Since human CBP trials will be complex, animal models can guide their design, sample size, endpoints, correlates and surrogates of protection. This review focuses on animal studies and human models of CBP and discusses implications for HIV prevention. PMID:27679928

Combining biomedical preventions for HIV: Vaccines with pre-exposure prophylaxis, microbicides or other HIV preventions.

PubMed

McNicholl, Janet M

2016-12-01

Biomedical preventions for HIV, such as vaccines, microbicides or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with antiretroviral drugs, can each only partially prevent HIV-1 infection in most human trials. Oral PrEP is now FDA approved for HIV-prevention in high risk groups, but partial adherence reduces efficacy. If combined as biomedical preventions (CBP) an HIV vaccine could provide protection when PrEP adherence is low and PrEP could prevent vaccine breakthroughs. Other types of PrEP or microbicides may also be partially protective. When licensed, first generation HIV vaccines are likely to be partially effective. Individuals at risk for HIV may receive an HIV vaccine combined with other biomedical preventions, in series or in parallel, in clinical trials or as part of standard of care, with the goal of maximally increasing HIV prevention. In human studies, it is challenging to determine which preventions are best combined, how they interact and how effective they are. Animal models can determine CBP efficacy, whether additive or synergistic, the efficacy of different products and combinations, dose, timing and mechanisms. CBP studies in macaques have shown that partially or minimally effective candidate HIV vaccines combined with partially effective oral PrEP, vaginal PrEP or microbicide generally provided greater protection than either prevention alone against SIV or SHIV challenges. Since human CBP trials will be complex, animal models can guide their design, sample size, endpoints, correlates and surrogates of protection. This review focuses on animal studies and human models of CBP and discusses implications for HIV prevention.

The Happy Older Latinos are Active (HOLA) health promotion and prevention study: study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Jimenez, Daniel E; Reynolds, Charles F; Alegría, Margarita; Harvey, Philip; Bartels, Stephen J

2015-12-18

Results of previous studies attest to the greater illness burden of common mental disorders (anxiety and depression) in older Latinos and the need for developing preventive interventions that are effective, acceptable, and scalable. Happy Older Latinos are Active (HOLA) is a newly developed intervention that uses a community health worker (CHW) to lead a health promotion program in order to prevent common mental disorders among at-risk older Latinos. This pilot study tests the feasibility and acceptability of delivering HOLA to older, at-risk Latinos. HOLA is a multi-component, health promotion intervention funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). This prevention approach will be tested against a fotonovela, an enhanced psychoeducation control condition, in a sample of Latino elderly with minor or subthreshold depression or anxiety. A total of 60 older Latinos (aged 60+) will be randomized to receive HOLA or the fotonovela. The primary outcomes of interest are recruitment, adherence, retention, and acceptability. Data will also be collected on: preemption of incident and recurrent major depression, generalized anxiety, and social phobia; reduction in depression and anxiety symptom severity; physical functioning; sedentary behaviors; social engagement; and self-efficacy. The results of this study could have implications for other high-risk, highly disadvantaged populations. The development of a health promotion intervention designed to prevent common mental disorders could be a means of addressing multiple disparities (for example, mental health outcomes, mental health service use, stigma) among racial/ethnic minority elderly. CLINICALTRIALS. NCT02371954 . Date of registration: 21 January 2015.

A pilot study of minocycline for the prevention of paclitaxel-associated neuropathy: ACCRU study RU221408I.

PubMed

Pachman, Deirdre R; Dockter, Travis; Zekan, Patricia J; Fruth, Briant; Ruddy, Kathryn J; Ta, Lauren E; Lafky, Jacqueline M; Dentchev, Todor; Le-Lindqwister, Nguyet Anh; Sikov, William M; Staff, Nathan; Beutler, Andreas S; Loprinzi, Charles L

2017-11-01

Paclitaxel is associated with both an acute pain syndrome (P-APS) and chronic chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Given that extensive animal data suggest that minocycline may prevent chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity, the purpose of this pilot study was to investigate the efficacy of minocycline for the prevention of CIPN and the P-APS. Patients with breast cancer were enrolled prior to initiating neoadjuvant or adjuvant weekly paclitaxel for 12 weeks and were randomized to receive minocycline 200 mg on day 1 followed by 100 mg twice daily or a matching placebo. Patients completed (1) an acute pain syndrome questionnaire daily during chemotherapy to measure P-APS and (2) the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 questionnaire at baseline, prior to each dose of paclitaxel, and monthly for 6 months post treatment, to measure CIPN. Forty-seven patients were randomized. There were no remarkable differences noted between the minocycline and placebo groups for the overall sensory neuropathy score of the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20 or its individual components, which evaluate tingling, numbness and shooting/burning pain in hands and feet. However, patients taking minocycline had a significant reduction in the daily average pain score attributed to P-APS (p = 0.02). Not only were no increased toxicities reported with minocycline, but there was a significant reduction in fatigue (p = 0.02). Results of this pilot study do not support the use of minocycline to prevent CIPN, but suggest that it may reduce P-APS and decrease fatigue; further study of the impact of this agent on those endpoints may be warranted.

Childhood Injuries--Causes, Preventive Theories and Case Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fisher, Leslie

1988-01-01

Provides a priori historical experiences and illustrations of several roles played by health practitioners in applied injury prevention. Reviews various models and assesses their strengths and weaknesses. Suggests guidelines for program management. (Author/CW)

Contemporary Primary Prevention Aspirin Use by Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Impact of US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations, 2007-2015: A Serial, Cross-sectional Study.

PubMed

Van't Hof, Jeremy R; Duval, Sue; Walts, Adrienne; Kopecky, Stephen L; Luepker, Russell V; Hirsch, Alan T

2017-10-03

No previous study has evaluated the impact of past US Preventive Services Task Force statements on primary prevention (PP) aspirin use in a primary care setting. The aim of this study was to evaluate temporal changes in PP aspirin use in a primary care population, stratifying patients by their 10-year global cardiovascular disease risk, in response to the 2009 statement. This study estimated biannual aspirin use prevalence using electronic health record data from primary care clinics within the Fairview Health System (Minnesota) from 2007 to 2015. A total of 94 270 patient encounters had complete data to estimate a 10-year cardiovascular disease risk score using the 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association global risk estimator. Patients were stratified into low- (<10%), intermediate- (10-20%), and high- (≥20%) risk groups. Over the 9-year period, PP aspirin use averaged 43%. When stratified by low, intermediate and high risk, average PP aspirin use was 41%, 63%, and 73%, respectively. Average PP aspirin use decreased after the publication of the 2009 US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement: from 45% to 40% in the low-risk group; from 66% to 62% in the intermediate-risk group; and from 76% to 73% in the high-risk group, before and after the guideline. Publication of the 2009 US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation was not associated with an increase in aspirin use. High risk PP patients utilized aspirin at high rates. Patients at intermediate risk were less intensively treated, and patients at low risk used aspirin at relatively high rates. These data may inform future aspirin guideline dissemination. © 2017 The Authors. Published on behalf of the American Heart Association, Inc., by Wiley.

Interventions for prevention of childhood obesity in primary care: a qualitative study

PubMed Central

Bourgeois, Nicole; Brauer, Paula; Simpson, Janis Randall; Kim, Susie; Haines, Jess

2016-01-01

Background: Preventing childhood obesity is a public health priority, and primary care is an important setting for early intervention. Authors of a recent national guideline have identified a need for effective primary care interventions for obesity prevention and that parent perspectives on interventions are notably absent from the literature. Our objective was to determine the perspectives of primary care clinicians and parents of children 2-5 years of age on the implementation of an obesity prevention intervention within team-based primary care to inform intervention implementation. Methods: We conducted focus groups with interprofessional primary care clinicians (n = 40) and interviews with parents (n = 26). Participants were asked about facilitators and barriers to, and recommendations for implementing a prevention program in primary care. Data were recorded and transcribed, and we used directed content analysis to identify major themes. Results: Barriers existed to addressing obesity-related behaviours in this age group and included a gap in well-child primary care between ages 18 months and 4-5 years, lack of time and sensitivity of the topic. Trust and existing relationships with primary care clinicians were facilitators to program implementation. Offering separate programs for parents and children, and addressing both general parenting topics and obesity-related behaviours were identified as desirable. Interpretation: Despite barriers to addressing obesity-related behaviours within well-child primary care, both clinicians and parents expressed interest in interventions in primary care settings. Next steps should include pilot studies to identify feasible strategies for intervention implementation. PMID:27398363

A role for communities in primary prevention of chronic illness? Case studies in regional Australia.

PubMed

Taylor, Judy; Braunack-Mayer, Annette; Cargo, Margaret; Larkins, Sarah; Preston, Robyn

2013-08-01

In regional Australia "communities of place," defined as bounded geographic locations with a local society, undertake community-wide primary prevention programs. In helping to prevent chronic illness, communities provide valuable resources to the health system. To understand the role of community-health sector partnerships for primary prevention and the community contextual factors that affect them, we studied eight partnerships. We used an embedded multiple case study design and collected data through interviews, nonparticipant observation, and document analysis. These data were analyzed using a typology of community-health sector partnerships and community interaction theory to frame the key community contextual factors that affected partnerships. The dominant factor affecting all partnerships was the presence of a collective commitment that communities brought to making the community a better place through developing health. We call this a communitarian approach. Additional research to investigate factors influencing a communitarian approach and the role it plays in partnerships is required.

Formative research to develop theory-based messages for a Western Australian child drowning prevention television campaign: study protocol

PubMed Central

Denehy, Mel; Crawford, Gemma; Leavy, Justine; Nimmo, Lauren; Jancey, Jonine

2016-01-01

Introduction Worldwide, children under the age of 5 years are at particular risk of drowning. Responding to this need requires the development of evidence-informed drowning prevention strategies. Historically, drowning prevention strategies have included denying access, learning survival skills and providing supervision, as well as education and information which includes the use of mass media. Interventions underpinned by behavioural theory and formative evaluation tend to be more effective, yet few practical examples exist in the drowning and/or injury prevention literature. The Health Belief Model and Social Cognitive Theory will be used to explore participants' perspectives regarding proposed mass media messaging. This paper describes a qualitative protocol to undertake formative research to develop theory-based messages for a child drowning prevention campaign. Methods and analysis The primary data source will be focus group interviews with parents and caregivers of children under 5 years of age in metropolitan and regional Western Australia. Qualitative content analysis will be used to analyse the data. Ethics and dissemination This study will contribute to the drowning prevention literature to inform the development of future child drowning prevention mass media campaigns. Findings from the study will be disseminated to practitioners, policymakers and researchers via international conferences, peer and non-peer-reviewed journals and evidence summaries. The study was submitted and approved by the Curtin University Human Research Ethics Committee. PMID:27207621

Meanings of Falls and Prevention of Falls According to Rehabilitation Nurses: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

PubMed

Bok, Amy; Pierce, Linda L; Gies, Cheryl; Steiner, Victoria

2016-01-01

Guided by Friedemann's theoretical framework, this survey explored the meaning of a fall of an institutionalized older adult or fall prevention to rehabilitation registered nurses and whether the experience changed the nurse's practice. Qualitative, descriptive survey. A convenience sample of 742 rehabilitation nurses was asked to describe these experiences and the impact on their practice. Themes discovered related to the meaning of a fall include negative feelings (incongruence) and positive feelings (congruence). Themes related to the meaning of preventing a fall include positive feelings (congruence). Practice change themes emerged from both the experience of a fall and fall prevention. Practice change themes were drawn to Friedemann's (1995) process dimensions. Nurses' experiences and meanings of falls uncovered negative and positive feelings about these falls. New findings of this study were the positive feelings expressed by nurses, when there was no injury or when a fall was prevented. © 2015 Association of Rehabilitation Nurses.

Gender perspectives on views and preferences of older people on exercise to prevent falls: a systematic mixed studies review.

PubMed

Sandlund, Marlene; Skelton, Dawn A; Pohl, Petra; Ahlgren, Christina; Melander-Wikman, Anita; Lundin-Olsson, Lillemor

2017-02-17

To offer fall prevention exercise programs that attract older people of both sexes there is a need to understand both women's and men's views and preferences regarding these programs. This paper aims to systematically review the literature to explore any underlying gender perspectives or gender interpretations on older people's views or preferences regarding uptake and adherence to exercise to prevent falls. A review of the literature was carried out using a convergent qualitative design based on systematic searches of seven electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Amed, PsycINFO, Scopus, PEDro, and OTseeker). Two investigators identified eligible studies. Each included article was read by at least two authors independently to extract data into tables. Views and preferences reported were coded and summarized in themes of facilitators and barriers using a thematic analysis approach. Nine hundred and nine unique studies were identified. Twenty five studies met the criteria for inclusion. Only five of these contained a gender analysis of men's and women's views on fall prevention exercises. The results suggests that both women and men see women as more receptive to and in more need of fall prevention messages. The synthesis from all 25 studies identified six themes illustrating facilitators and six themes describing barriers for older people either starting or adhering to fall prevention exercise. The facilitators were: support from professionals or family; social interaction; perceived benefits; a supportive exercise context; feelings of commitment; and having fun. Barriers were: practical issues; concerns about exercise; unawareness; reduced health status; lack of support; and lack of interest. Considerably more women than men were included in the studies. Although there is plenty of information on the facilitators and barriers to falls prevention exercise in older people, there is a distinct lack of studies investigating differences or similarities in older women

Barriers to the effective treatment and prevention of malaria in Africa: A systematic review of qualitative studies

PubMed Central

2009-01-01

Background In Africa, an estimated 300-500 million cases of malaria occur each year resulting in approximately 1 million deaths. More than 90% of these are in children under 5 years of age. To identify commonly held beliefs about malaria that might present barriers to its successful treatment and prevention, we conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies examining beliefs and practices concerning malaria in sub-Saharan African countries. Methods We searched Medline and Scopus (1966-2009) and identified 39 studies that employed qualitative methods (focus groups and interviews) to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of people living in African countries where malaria is endemic. Data were extracted relating to study characteristics, and themes pertaining to barriers to malaria treatment and prevention. Results The majority of studies were conducted in rural areas, and focused mostly or entirely on children. Major barriers to prevention reported included a lack of understanding of the cause and transmission of malaria (29/39), the belief that malaria cannot be prevented (7/39), and the use of ineffective prevention measures (12/39). Thirty-seven of 39 articles identified barriers to malaria treatment, including concerns about the safety and efficacy of conventional medicines (15/39), logistical obstacles, and reliance on traditional remedies. Specific barriers to the treatment of childhood malaria identified included the belief that a child with convulsions could die if given an injection or taken to hospital (10/39). Conclusion These findings suggest that large-scale malaria prevention and treatment programs must account for the social and cultural contexts in which they are deployed. Further quantitative research should be undertaken to more precisely measure the impact of the themes uncovered by this exploratory analysis. PMID:19852857

Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program Study: a randomized, controlled prospective comparative value evaluation of 2 pressure ulcer prevention strategies in nursing and rehabilitation centers.

PubMed

Shannon, Ronald J; Brown, Lynne; Chakravarthy, Debashish

2012-10-01

This article assesses the comparative prevention-effectiveness and economic implications of a Pressure Ulcer Prevention Program (PUPP) against standard practice of prevention using Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (now the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality [AHRQ]) guidelines and a mixture of commercial products. The study is a randomized, controlled, prospective cohort study with an accompanying economic evaluation. The economic evaluation is performed from the perspective of the nursing and rehabilitation centers. Two nursing and rehabilitation centers under the same quality and safety support organization. Both institutions are experiencing high nursing staff turnover and incidence of pressure ulcers (PrUs). 133 residents at risk of developing PrUs (EQUIP-for-Quality Risk Score Moderate to Very High [MVH]). All are Medicare-eligible residents with Minimum Data Set (MDS) 2.0 evaluations. The PUPP includes a strategic product bundle and decision algorithms driven by MDS 2.0 Resident Assessment Scores to assist in reducing or preventing PrUs and incontinence-associated skin conditions. The control group utilizes a different brand and assortment of commercial skin care products, briefs, pads, and mattresses, but without use of the decision algorithms driven by MDS 2.0 Resident Assessment Scores. Pressure ulcer prevention education was done for all nurses by a nurse certified in the PUPP program at the beginning and ad libitum by trained senior nursing staff at the end of the study. Comparative reduction in the incidence of nosocomial PrUs and average 6-month net cost savings per MVH-risk resident. Residents were assessed for PrU risk using EQUIP-for-Quality risk assessment algorithm based on data from their Minimum Data Set (MDS 2.0), then assigned to either the PUPP program or control group (standard practice following AHRQ guidelines). Residents were followed until discharge, death, development of PrU, or a maximum time period of 6 months. Direct

Implementation of a guideline for pressure ulcer prevention in home care: pretest-post-test study.

PubMed

Paquay, Louis; Verstraete, Sabine; Wouters, Renild; Buntinx, Frank; Vanderwee, Katrien; Defloor, Tom; Van Gansbeke, Hendrik

2010-07-01

To investigate the effect of the implementation of a patient and family education programme for pressure ulcer prevention in an organisation for home care nursing on guideline adherence and on prevalence and severity of pressure ulcers and to examine the determining factors for the application of measures for pressure ulcer prevention. Quality improvement programmes in pressure ulcer prevention are not always successful. Implementation study using a pretest-post-test design. Data were collected in three probability samples. The first post-test data collection was held after six months, the second after 18 months. Statistical analysis was used, comparing the pretest sample and the second post-test sample. After 18 months, the proportion of subjects with adherent measures had increased from 10·4-13·9%, the proportion of subjects with non-adherent measures decreased from 45·7-36·0%, the proportion of subjects without pressure ulcer prevention increased from 43·9-50·1% (p<0·0001, Chi-square test). Sub-analysis revealed that a positive change in guideline adherence was observed principally in the group at risk. Better process-of-care indicators were associated by lower pressure ulcer prevalence and less severe skin lesions. The nurses' judgement of a patient risk status was the most important factor for applying preventive measures. Furthermore, application of pressure ulcer prevention was determined by higher age (from the age category of 70-79 years), higher dependency for the activities of daily living, higher than baseline mobility score and the presence of a pressure ulcer. Guideline adherence in pressure ulcer prevention changed significantly after implementation of the education programme. There might have been inconsistencies in the nurses' risk judgement. Quality of pressure ulcer prevention improved, but several items for improvement remain. Adaptation of risk assessment procedures is needed. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

PREvention STudy On preventing or reducing disability from musculoskeletal complaints in music school students (PRESTO): protocol of a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Baadjou, Vera A E; Verbunt, Jeanine A M C F; Eijsden-Besseling, Marjon D F van; Samama-Polak, Ans L W; Bie, Rob A D E; Smeets, Rob J E M

2014-12-01

Up to 87% of professional musicians develop work-related complaints of the musculoskeletal system during their careers. Music school students are at specific risk for developing musculoskeletal complaints and disabilities. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a biopsychosocial prevention program to prevent or reduce disabilities from playing-related musculoskeletal disorders. Secondary objectives are evaluation of cost-effectiveness and feasibility. Healthy, first or second year students (n=150) will be asked to participate in a multicentre, single-blinded, parallel-group randomised controlled trial. Students randomised to the intervention group (n=75) will participate in a biopsychosocial prevention program that addresses playing-related health problems and provides postural training according to the Mensendieck or Cesar methods of postural exercise therapy, while incorporating aspects from behavioural change theories. A control group (n=75) will participate in a program that stimulates a healthy physical activity level using a pedometer, which conforms to international recommendations. No long-term effects are expected from this control intervention. Total follow-up duration is two years. The primary outcome measure is disability (Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire). The secondary outcome measures are pain, quality of life and changes in health behaviour. Multilevel mixed-effect logistic or linear regression analyses will be performed to analyse the effects of the program on the aforementioned outcome measurements. Furthermore, cost-effectiveness, cost-utility and feasibility will be analysed. It is believed that this is the first comprehensive randomised controlled trial on the effect and rationale of a biopsychosocial prevention program for music students. Copyright © 2014 Australian Physiotherapy Association. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Preventive Care for the Elderly

PubMed Central

Mallery, Laurie; Rockwood, Kenneth

1992-01-01

The practice of preventive medicine in the elderly population needs to be revitalized. A review of the existing literature of preventive medicine for recommendations for the elderly uncovers two problems: most screening studies have had few elderly subjects, and the focus has been mainly on early disease detection and prevention of mortality. Prevention of morbidity and of functional impairment should receive more emphasis. PMID:21221297

Prevention of influenza among travellers attending at a UK travel clinic: beliefs and perceptions. A cross-sectional study.

PubMed

Masuet-Aumatell, Cristina; Toovey, Stephen; Zuckerman, Jane N

2013-07-01

Travellers' compliance with measures to prevent influenza through the use of antivirals and influenza vaccine remains very poor despite influenza being one of the commonest travel and vaccine-preventable diseases. A study was undertaken to assess travellers' beliefs, perceptions and intentions to take antivirals for the treatment and prevention of influenza during the H1N1 pandemic. A cross-sectional survey (n = 96) of travellers who attended the Royal Free Travel Health Centre, London, UK was undertaken in September 2009. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by a traveller in advance of their pre-travel health consultation. Logistic regression identified variables independently associated with compliance. Influenza vaccination uptake for the 5 years preceding the study was found to be 20·8%. This was statistically significantly higher for older travellers and those with underlying health conditions (P < 0·005). Mean intention to comply with antiviral drugs on a preventive and therapeutic basis was 58% and 72%, respectively, and this varied markedly with age and with dispensed antimalarial chemoprophylaxis. This study identifies some beliefs and perceptions travellers consider with regard to the therapeutic and preventive influenza use of antivirals during the H1N1 pandemic; it underscores the importance of travellers receiving hemisphere appropriate influenza vaccination. The external validity of these study findings requires further corroboration involving other travel clinics and different cohorts of travellers during seasonal activity or outbreaks of influenza. These findings could guide the development of future strategies for the prevention of influenza in travellers. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

[Review in the studies on tannins activity of cancer prevention and anticancer].

PubMed

Li, Haixia; Wang, Zhao; Liu, Yanze

2003-06-01

This paper reviewed the biological activities of tannins in cancer prevention and anticancer, and mainly discussed related mechanisms. The results suggest that tannins, whether total tannins or pure tannin compound, have remarkable activity in cancer prevention and anticancer. It has wealthy foreground for developing new cancer prevention agents and/or new anticancer drugs screening among tannin compounds.

A couple-focused intervention to prevent postnatal smoking relapse: PRISM study design.

PubMed

Meghea, Cristian Ioan; Brînzaniuc, Alexandra; Mihu, Dan; Iuhas, Cristian Ioan; Stamatian, Florin; Caracostea, Gabriela; Sidor, Alexandra; Alexa, Paula Mădălina; Brînza, Cătălina; Pop, Oana Maria; Cherecheș, Răzvan Mircea

2015-03-01

Maternal smoking is one of the most modifiable factors with clear adverse effects for the fetus and the entire family. Addressing the dearth of pregnancy smoking interventions with partner support, PRISM (Prevent Relapse In SMoking) is a partnership between a research institution and the two largest state-owned obstetrics and gynecology clinics in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The study will assess the efficacy of a couple-focused telephone-counseling program to prevent smoking relapse among mothers who quit smoking closely before or during pregnancy. The intervention is a program for couples based on motivational interviewing delivered over the phone after birth. The study is an ongoing randomized controlled trial of 250 Romanian women recruited soon after childbirth, who quit smoking in the six months before pregnancy or no later than the end of the first pregnancy trimester and remained abstinent (which was biochemically verified) until delivery. Participants were randomized to: (1) a control arm (usual care); and (2) an intervention arm consisting of up to 4 postnatal counseling calls for mothers and their partners using motivational interviewing to encourage the woman to remain smoke-free and the partner to support her decision. The primary outcome is maternal smoking abstinence at 6 months postpartum (biochemically verified). PRISM has the potential to identify strategies to reduce maternal postnatal relapse and increase partner quitting. If successful, the program may be an effective method to prevent and reduce smoking, which may lead to improved child, mother, and partner health both in the short and the long term. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Does nurses'perceived burn prevention knowledge and ability to teach burn prevention correlate with their actual burn prevention knowledge?

PubMed

Lehna, Carlee; Myers, John

2010-01-01

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship among nurses'perceived burn prevention knowledge, their perceived ability to teach about burn prevention, and their actual burn prevention knowledge and to test if their actual burn knowledge could be predicted by these perceived measures. A two-page, anonymous survey that included a 10-item burn prevention knowledge test and an assessment of nurses'perceived knowledge of burn prevention and their perceived ability to teach burn prevention was administered to 313 nurses. Actual burn prevention knowledge was determined and the correlation among actual burn prevention knowledge, perceived knowledge, and perceived ability to teach was determined. Differences in these outcome variables based on specialty area were tested using analysis of variance techniques. Generalized linear modeling techniques were used to investigate which variables significantly predict a nurse's actual burn prevention knowledge. Test for interaction effects were performed, and significance was set at .05. Responding nurses (N = 265) described practicing in a variety of settings, such as pediatric settings (40.2%, n = 105), emergency departments (25.4%, n = 86), medical/surgical settings (8.4%, n = 22), and one pediatric burn setting (4.1%, n = 14), with all specialty areas as having similar actual burn prevention knowledge (P = .052). Seventy-seven percent of the nurses said they never taught about burn prevention (n = 177). Perceived knowledge and actual knowledge (r = .124, P = .046) as well as perceived knowledge and perceived ability were correlated (r = .799, P < .001). Significant predictors of actual knowledge were years in practice (beta = -0.063, P = .034), years in current area (beta = 0.072, P = .003), perceived knowledge (beta = 0.109, P = .042), and perceived ability (beta = 0.137, P = .019). All nurses, regardless of specialty area, have poor burn prevention knowledge, which is correlated with their perceived lack of

Preventing Chronic Pain following Acute Pain: Risk Factors, Preventive Strategies, and their Efficacy

PubMed Central

McGreevy, Kai; Bottros, Michael M.; Raja, Srinivasa N.

2011-01-01

Chronic pain is the leading cause of disability in the United States. The transition from acute to persistent pain is thought to arise from maladaptive neuroplastic mechanisms involving three intertwined processes, peripheral sensitization, central sensitization, and descending modulation. Strategies aimed at preventing persistent pain may target such processes. Models for studying preventive strategies include persistent post-surgical pain (PPP), persistent post-trauma pain (PTP) and post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Such entities allow a more defined acute onset of tissue injury after which study of the long-term effects is more easily examined. In this review, we examine the pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment strategies for the prevention of chronic pain using these models. Both pharmacological and interventional approaches are described, as well as a discussion of preventive strategies on the horizon. PMID:22102847

Predicting Use of Outdoor Fall Prevention Strategies: Considerations for Prevention Practices.

PubMed

Chippendale, Tracy

2018-01-01

Outdoor falls are just as common as indoor falls, but have received less attention in research and practice. Behavioral strategies play an important role in outdoor fall prevention. The purpose of this study was to examine predictors of strategy use. Backward stepwise regression was used to study factors associated with use of outdoor fall prevention strategies among a random sample ( N = 120) of community-dwelling seniors. Significant negative predictors of strategy use included higher education levels ( p < .01) and living in an urban versus a suburban environment ( p < .01). Concern about falls and number of identified risks were positive predictors ( ps < .05). Differences were found between outdoor fallers and nonfallers in the use of three different types of strategies ( ps < .05). There are some differences in the profiles of people who use and do not use outdoor fall prevention strategies. Further study of additional factors is warranted.

Assessing dental professionals' understanding of tobacco prevention and control: a qualitative study in Västerbotten County, Sweden.

PubMed

Preet, Raman; Khan, Nausheen; Blomstedt, Yulia; Nilsson, Maria; Stewart Williams, Jennifer

2016-01-01

To assess dental professionals' understanding of tobacco prevention and control. In Sweden dental hygienists receive training in tobacco prevention and control. The study setting is Västerbotton County in the north of Sweden where a number of successful tobacco control initiatives have been established. A purposeful sample comprising five male and four female dental professionals and trainees was selected. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured individual interviews and analysed using content analysis. Informants acknowledged limited adherence to tobacco prevention. They were not confident of their knowledge of tobacco and non-communicable disease prevention and had limited awareness of global oral health policies. Reasons for poor adherence included professional fragmentation, lack of training, and the absence of reimbursement for time spent on prevention activities. The success of efforts to reduce smoking in Västerbotton County is attributed to the network of local public health initiatives with very limited involvement by local dental professionals. The findings highlight the need to more actively engage the dental workforce in tobacco control and prevention. Moreover, it is important to recognise that dental professionals can be public health advocates for tobacco control and prevention at global, national and local levels.

Use of New Technologies in the Prevention of Suicide in Europe: An Exploratory Study.

PubMed

Muñoz-Sánchez, Juan-Luis; Delgado, Carmen; Sánchez-Prada, Andrés; Pérez-López, Mercedes; Franco-Martín, Manuel A

2017-06-27

characteristics of the country should be taken into account. New technologies are much appreciated resources; however they are not often underused in the field of suicide prevention. The results of this exploratory study show that new technologies are indeed useful resources and should be incorporated into suicide prevention programs. ©Juan-Luis Muñoz-Sánchez, Carmen Delgado, Andrés Sánchez-Prada, Mercedes Pérez-López, Manuel A Franco-Martín. Originally published in JMIR Mental Health (http://mental.jmir.org), 27.06.2017.

A Community-Based Intervention to Prevent Obesity Beginning at Birth among American Indian Children: Study Design and Rationale for the PTOTS study

PubMed Central

Karanja, Njeri; Aickin, Mikel; Lutz, Tam; Mist, Scott; Jobe, Jared B.; Maupomé, Gerardo; Ritenbaugh, Cheryl

2012-01-01

Eating and physical activity behaviors associated with adult obesity have early antecedents, yet few studies have focused on obesity prevention interventions targeting very young children. Efforts to prevent obesity beginning at birth seem particularly important in populations at risk for early-onset obesity. National estimates indicate that American Indian (AI) children have higher rates of overweight and obesity than children of other races/ethnicities. The Prevention of Toddler Obesity and Teeth Health Study (PTOTS) is a community-partnered randomized controlled trial designed to prevent obesity beginning at birth in AI children. PTOTS was developed to test the effectiveness of a multi-component intervention designed to: promote breastfeeding, reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption, appropriately time the introduction of healthy solid foods, and counsel parents to reduce sedentary lifestyles in their children. A birth cohort of 577 children from five AI tribes is randomized by tribe to either the intervention (three tribes) or the comparison condition (two tribes). The strengths and weaknesses of PTOTS include a focus on a critical growth phase, placement in the community, and intervention at many levels, using a variety of approaches. PMID:23001689

Construction of Uranyl Selective Electrode Based on Complex of Uranyl Ion with New Ligand Carboxybenzotriazole in PVC Matrix Membrane

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abu-Dalo, M. A.; Al-Rawashdeh, N. A. F.; Al-Mheidat, I. R.; Nassory, N. S.

2015-10-01

In the present study uranyl selective electrodes in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix membrane were prepared based on a complex of uranyl ion (UO2) with carboxybenzotriazole (CBT) as ligand. The effect of the nature of plasticizer in PVC matrix were evaluated using three different plasticizers, these are dibutyl phthalate (DBP), dioctyl phthalate (DOP) and bis(2-ethylhexyl) sebacate (BHS). The results of this study indicated that the best plasticizer could be used is the DBP, which may be attributed to its lowest viscosity value compared to DOP and BHS. The electrodes with DBP as plasticizer exhibits a Nernstian response with a slope of 28.0 mV/ decade, over a wide range of concentration from 3.0×10-5-6.0×10-2 M and a detection limit of 4.0×10-6 M. It can be used in the pH range of 4.0-10.0 with a response time of less than 10 s for DBP and 25 s for both DOP and BHS. The effects of ions interferences on the electrode response were evaluated. The di- and tri-valent cations were found to interfere less than univalent cations, which was attributed to the high diffusion and the exchange rate between the univalent ions and the uranyl ion solution. The electrodes were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron microscopy (SEM). The results of the standard addition method were satisfactory with errors less than 7%. The developed electrode was found to be fast, sensitive and reliable indicated its potential use in measuring the uranly ion concentration in the field.

Finding a BETTER way: A qualitative study exploring the prevention practitioner intervention to improve chronic disease prevention and screening in family practice

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Our randomized controlled trial (The BETTER Trial) found that training a clinician to become a Prevention Practitioner (PP) in family practices improved chronic disease prevention and screening (CDPS). PPs were trained on CDPS and provided prevention prescriptions tailored to participating patients. For this embedded qualitative study, we explored perceptions of this new role to understand the PP intervention. Methods We used grounded theory methodology and purposefully sampled participants involved in any capacity with the BETTER Trial. Two physicians and one coordinator in each of two cities (Toronto, Ontario and Edmonton, Alberta) conducted eight individual semi-structured interviews and seven focus groups. We used an interview guide and documented research activities through an audit trail, journals, field notes and memos. We analyzed the data using the constant comparative method throughout open coding followed by theoretical coding. Results A framework and process involving external and internal practice facilitation using the new role of PP was thought to impact CDPS. The PP facilitated CDPS through on-going relationships with patients and practice team members. Key components included: 1) approaching CDPS in a comprehensive manner, 2) an individualized and personalized approach at multiple levels, 3) integrated continuity that included linking the patients and practices to CPDS resources, and 4) adaptability to different practices and settings. Conclusions The BETTER framework and key components are described as impacting CDPS through a process that involved a new role, the PP. The introduction of a novel role of a clinician within the primary care practice with skills in CDPS could appropriately address gaps in prevention and screening. PMID:24720686

A childhood obesity prevention programme in Barcelona (POIBA Project): Study protocol of the intervention.

PubMed

Sánchez-Martínez, Francesca; Juárez, Olga; Serral, Gemma; Valmayor, Sara; Puigpinós, Rosa; Pasarín, María Isabel; Díez, Élia; Ariza, Carles

2018-02-05

Childhood obesity preventive interventions should promote a healthy diet and physical activity at home and school. This study aims to describe a school-based childhood obesity preventive programme (POIBA Project) targeting 8-to-12- year-olds. Evaluation study of a school-based intervention with a pre-post quasi-experimental design and a comparison group. Schools from disadvantaged neighbourhoods are oversampled. The intervention consists of 9 sessions, including 58 activities of a total duration between 9 and 13 hours, and the booster intervention of 2 sessions with 8 activities lasting 3 or 4 hours. They are multilevel (individual, family and school) and multicomponent (classroom, physical activity and family). Data are collected through anthropometric measurements, physical fitness tests and lifestyle surveys before and after the intervention and the booster intervention. In the intervention group, families complete two questionnaires about their children's eating habits and physical activity. The outcome variable is the cumulative incidence rate of obesity, obtained from body mass index values and body fat assessed by triceps skinfold thickness. The independent variables are socio-demographic, contextual, eating habits, food frequency, intensity of physical activity and use of new technologies. It is essential to implement preventive interventions at early ages and to follow its effects over time. Interventions involving diet and physical activity are the most common, being the most effective setting the school. The POIBA Project intervenes in both the school and family setting and focuses on the most disadvantaged groups, in which obesity is most pronounced and difficult to prevent.

Enhanced synthesis of L-threo-3,4-dihydroxyphenylserine by high-density whole-cell biocatalyst of recombinant L-threonine aldolase from Streptomyces avelmitilis.

PubMed

Baik, Sang-Ho; Yoshioka, Hideki

2009-03-01

L-threo-3,4-Dihydroxyphenylserine (DOPS) is a chiral unnatural beta-hydroxy amino acid used for the treatment of Parkinson disease. We developed a continuous bioconversion system for DOPS production that uses whole-cell biocatalyst of recombinant Escherichia coli expressing L-threonine aldolase (L-TA) genes cloned from Streptomyces avelmitilis MA-4680. Maximum conversion rates were observed at 2 M glycine, 145 mM 3,4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, 0.75% Triton-X, 5 g E. coli cells/l, pH 6.5 and 10 degrees C. In the optimized condition, overall productivity was 8 g/l, which represents 40 times the synthesis yield possible with no optimization of conditions.

Exploring breast cancer preventive lifestyle and social support of Iranian women: a study protocol for a mixed-methods approach.

PubMed

Khazaee-Pool, Maryam; Pashaei, Tahereh; Jahangiry, Leila; Ponnet, Koen; Gholami, Ali

2017-06-07

It is widely accepted that a healthy lifestyle may decrease the probability of developing cancer. This study aimed to describe a study protocol that makes it possible to explore preventive health lifestyles of Iranian women and their received social support for the purpose of developing cultural strategies to increase breast cancer prevention. A mixed-methods study will be accomplished in two sequential parts. First, a cross-sectional study will be conducted in which 2,250 Iranian women are recruited by using a random multistage cluster sampling of 20 health care centers. Structured face-to-face interviews will be conducted to obtain information on the participants' health lifestyle and perceived social support. Data will be analyzed using both multivariate regression and structural equation modeling techniques. Then, a qualitative study will be conducted among employed women using a purposive sampling design. Data will be collected by means of focus groups and semi-structured interviews and will be analyzed using a conventional content analysis approach. The results of the quantitative and qualitative study will be used to develop breast cancer preventive strategies. Researchers need to acquire knowledge regarding the lifestyle and perceived social support of Iranian women that will foster culturally competent approaches to promote healthy lifestyles to develop breast cancer preventive strategies. Examining breast cancer preventive lifestyles provides valuable information for designing applicable intervention programs for improving women's health.

Factors associated with free adult preventive health care utilization among physically disabled people in Taiwan: nationwide population-based study.

PubMed

Yen, Suh-May; Kung, Pei-Tseng; Tsai, Wen-Chen

2014-12-05

Few previous studies have specifically addressed the health care utilization situation of the physically disabled. This study aimed to investigate the utilization of free adult preventive health care for physically disabled people and its' affecting factors. The data was obtained from three nationwide databases from 2006 to 2008. This study comprised 329,264 physically disabled people in Taiwan above the age of 40 who had eligible health checks during 2008. We employed descriptive statistics to analyze the use and rate of free preventive health care use by physically disabled adults. Logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors that affect physically disabled adults' use of free adult preventive health care. 16.37% of the physically disabled adults used free adult preventive health care. Women (17.66%), married (17.16%), a junior high education level (17.89%), and mildly disabled adults (18.77%) had the highest use rate among various participant subgroups. The variables that significantly influenced the use of free adult preventive health care by the physically disabled included gender, age, education, marital status, urbanization of the residence areas, monthly payroll, aboriginal status, catastrophic illnesses status, relevant chronic diseases, and severity of disability. Physically disabled using preventive health care tend to be low. Governments should use the media to reinforce propagation and education of these services to specific, low-utilization groups, and encourage doctors to actively provide preventive health care to communities.

Interpersonal psychotherapy for the prevention of excess weight gain and eating disorders: A brief case study.

PubMed

Tanofsky-Kraff, Marian; Shomaker, Lauren B; Young, Jami F; Wilfley, Denise E

2016-06-01

This article presents a brief case study of "Jane Doe," a 13-year-old, non-Hispanic White girl 2 participating in a clinical research trial of interpersonal psychotherapy-weight gain (IPT-WG). Girls at-risk for adult obesity and binge eating disorder (BED) were randomly assigned to take part in 12 weeks of preventative group treatment. Jane's IPT-WG group included five other early adolescent girls (mostly aged 12-13) at risk for adult obesity and BED. The case of Jane illustrates a successful example of IPT-WG for the prevention of excessive weight gain and for the prevention of BED. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

Photoaging Mobile Apps as a Novel Opportunity for Melanoma Prevention: Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Schadendorf, Dirk; Klode, Joachim; Cosgarea, Ioana; Rösch, Alexander; Jansen, Philipp; Stoffels, Ingo; Izar, Benjamin

2017-01-01

Background Around 90% of melanomas are caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure and are therefore eminently preventable. Unhealthy tanning behavior is mostly initiated in early adolescence, often with the belief that it increases attractiveness; the problems related to skin atrophy and malignant melanoma are too far in the future to fathom. Photoaging desktop programs, in which an image is altered to predict future appearance, have been successful in positively influencing behavior in adiposity or tobacco prevention settings. Objective To develop and test a photoaging app designed for melanoma prevention. Methods We harnessed the widespread availability of mobile phones and adolescents’ interest in appearance to develop a free mobile app called Sunface. This app has the user take a self-portrait (ie, a selfie), and then photoages the image based on Fitzpatrick skin type and individual UV protection behavior. Afterward, the app explains the visual results and aims at increasing self-competence on skin cancer prevention by providing guideline recommendations on sun protection and the ABCDE rule for melanoma self-detection. The underlying aging algorithms are based on publications showing UV-induced skin damage by outdoor as well as indoor tanning. To get a first impression on how well the app would be received in a young target group, we included a total sample of 25 students in our cross-sectional pilot study with a median age of 22 (range 19-25) years of both sexes (11/25, 44% female; 14/25, 56% male) attending the University of Essen in Germany. Results The majority of enrolled students stated that they would download the app (22/25, 88%), that the intervention had the potential to motivate them to use sun protection (23/25, 92%) and that they thought such an app could change their perceptions that tanning makes you attractive (19/25, 76%). Only a minority of students disagreed or fully disagreed that they would download such an app (2/25, 8%) or that such an app

Randomised trial of neonatal hypoglycaemia prevention with oral dextrose gel (hPOD): study protocol.

PubMed

Harding, Jane E; Hegarty, Joanne E; Crowther, Caroline A; Edlin, Richard; Gamble, Greg; Alsweiler, Jane M

2015-09-16

Neonatal hypoglycaemia is common, affecting up to 15% of newborn babies and 50% of those with risk factors (preterm, infant of a diabetic, high or low birthweight). Hypoglycaemia can cause brain damage and death, and babies born at risk have an increased risk of developmental delay in later life. Treatment of hypoglycaemia usually involves additional feeding, often with infant formula, and admission to Neonatal Intensive Care for intravenous dextrose. This can be costly and inhibit the establishment of breast feeding. Prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia would be desirable, but there are currently no strategies, beyond early feeding, for prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia. Buccal dextrose gel is safe and effective in treatment of hypoglycaemia. The aim of this trial is to determine whether 40% dextrose gel given to babies at risk prevents neonatal hypoglycaemia and hence reduces admission to Neonatal Intensive Care. Randomised, multicentre, placebo controlled trial. Babies at risk of hypoglycaemia (preterm, infant of a diabetic, small or large), less than 1 h old, with no apparent indication for Neonatal Intensive Care Unit admission and mother intends to breastfeed. Trial entry & randomisation: Eligible babies of consenting parents will be allocated by online randomisation to the dextrose gel group or placebo group, using a study number and corresponding trial intervention pack. Babies will receive a single dose of 0.5 ml/kg study gel at 1 h after birth; either 40% dextrose gel (200 mg/kg) or 2% hydroxymethylcellulose placebo. Gel will be massaged into the buccal mucosal and followed by a breast feed. Primary study outcome: Admission to Neonatal Intensive Care. 2,129 babies are required to detect a decrease in admission to Neonatal Intensive Care from 10-6% (two-sided alpha 0.05, 90% power, 5% drop-out rate). This study will investigate whether admission to Neonatal Intensive Care can be prevented by prophylactic oral dextrose gel; a simple, cheap and painless

Implementation of secondary fracture prevention services after hip fracture: a qualitative study using extended Normalization Process Theory.

PubMed

Drew, Sarah; Judge, Andrew; May, Carl; Farmer, Andrew; Cooper, Cyrus; Javaid, M Kassim; Gooberman-Hill, Rachael

2015-04-23

National and international guidance emphasizes the need for hospitals to have effective secondary fracture prevention services, to reduce the risk of future fractures in hip fracture patients. Variation exists in how hospitals organize these services, and there remain significant gaps in care. No research has systematically explored reasons for this to understand how to successfully implement these services. The objective of this study was to use extended Normalization Process Theory to understand how secondary fracture prevention services can be successfully implemented. Forty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals involved in delivering secondary fracture prevention within 11 hospitals that receive patients with acute hip fracture in one region in England. These included orthogeriatricians, fracture prevention nurses and service managers. Extended Normalization Process Theory was used to inform study design and analysis. Extended Normalization Process Theory specifies four constructs relating to collective action in service implementation: capacity, potential, capability and contribution. The capacity of healthcare professionals to co-operate and co-ordinate their actions was achieved using dedicated fracture prevention co-ordinators to organize important processes of care. However, participants described effective communication with GPs as challenging. Individual potential and commitment to operationalize services was generally high. Shared commitments were promoted through multi-disciplinary team working, facilitated by fracture prevention co-ordinators. Healthcare professionals had capacity to deliver multiple components of services when co-ordinators 'freed up' time. As key agents in its intervention, fracture prevention coordinators were therefore indispensable to effective implementation. Aside from difficulty of co-ordination with primary care, the intervention was highly workable and easily integrated into practice

Developing a culturally-tailored stroke prevention walking program for Korean immigrant seniors: A focus group study

PubMed Central

Kwon, Ivy; Chang, Emiley; Araiza, Daniel; Thorpe, Carol Lee; Sarkisian, Catherine A.

2016-01-01

Background Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for stroke. Korean immigrant seniors are one of the most sedentary ethnic groups in the United States. Objectives To gain better understanding of (i) Beliefs and knowledge about stroke; (ii) Attitudes about walking for stroke prevention; and (iii) Barriers and facilitators to walking among Korean seniors for the cultural tailoring of a stroke prevention walking program. Design An explorative study using focus group data. Twenty-nine Korean immigrant seniors (64–90 years of age) who had been told by a doctor at least once that their blood pressure was elevated participated in 3 focus groups. Each focus group consisted of 8–11 participants. Methods Focus group audio tapes were transcribed and analyzed using standard content analysis methods. Results Participants identified physical and psychological imbalances (e.g., too much work and stress) as the primary causes of stroke. Restoring ‘balance’ was identified as a powerful means of stroke prevention. A subset of participants expressed that prevention may be beyond human control. Overall, participants acknowledged the importance of walking for stroke prevention, but described barriers such as lack of personal motivation and unsafe environment. Many participants believed that providing opportunities for socialization while walking and combining walking with health information sessions would facilitate participation in and maintenance of a walking program. Conclusions Korean immigrant seniors believe strongly that imbalance is a primary cause of stroke. Restoring balance as a way to prevent stroke is culturally special among Koreans and provides a conceptual base in culturally tailoring our stroke prevention walking intervention for Korean immigrant seniors. Implications for practice A stroke prevention walking program for Korean immigrant seniors may have greater impact by addressing beliefs about stroke causes and prevention such as physical and

Developing a culturally tailored stroke prevention walking programme for Korean immigrant seniors: a focus group study.

PubMed

Choi, Sarah E; Kwon, Ivy; Chang, Emiley; Araiza, Daniel; Thorpe, Carol Lee; Sarkisian, Catherine A

2016-12-01

To gain better understanding of (i) beliefs and knowledge about stroke; (ii) attitudes about walking for stroke prevention; and (iii) barriers and facilitators to walking among Korean seniors for the cultural tailoring of a stroke prevention walking programme. Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for stroke. Korean immigrant seniors are one of the most sedentary ethnic groups in the United States. An explorative study using focus group data. Twenty-nine Korean immigrant seniors (64-90 years of age) who had been told by a doctor at least once that their blood pressure was elevated participated in 3 focus groups. Each focus group consisted of 8-11 participants. Focus group audiotapes were transcribed and analysed using standard content analysis methods. Participants identified physical and psychological imbalances (e.g. too much work and stress) as the primary causes of stroke. Restoring 'balance' was identified as a powerful means of stroke prevention. A subset of participants expressed that prevention may be beyond human control. Overall, participants acknowledged the importance of walking for stroke prevention, but described barriers such as lack of personal motivation and unsafe environment. Many participants believed that providing opportunities for socialisation while walking and combining walking with health information sessions would facilitate participation in and maintenance of a walking programme. Korean immigrant seniors believe strongly that imbalance is a primary cause of stroke. Restoring balance as a way to prevent stroke is culturally special among Koreans and provides a conceptual base in culturally tailoring our stroke prevention walking intervention for Korean immigrant seniors. A stroke prevention walking programme for Korean immigrant seniors may have greater impact by addressing beliefs about stroke causes and prevention such as physical and psychological imbalances and the importance of maintaining emotional well-being. © 2016 John

Gender-Based Violence Prevention. Issues in Prevention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Higher Education Center for Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Violence Prevention, 2012

2012-01-01

This issue of "Issues in Prevention" focuses on gender-based violence prevention. This issue contains the following articles: (1) Preventing Gender-Based Violence: An Overview (Linda Langford); (2) Q&A With Amelia Cobb; (3) Denim Day at HBCUs; (4) Dear Colleague Letter; (5) ED Grants for Violence Prevention; and (6) Higher Education Center…

Primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases: a cost study in family practices.

PubMed

de Bekker-Grob, Esther W; van Dulmen, Sandra; van den Berg, Matthijs; Verheij, Robert A; Slobbe, Laurentius C J

2011-07-06

Considering the scarcity of health care resources and the high costs associated with cardiovascular diseases, we investigated the spending on cardiovascular primary preventive activities and the prescribing behaviour of primary preventive cardiovascular medication (PPCM) in Dutch family practices (FPs). A mixed methods design was used, which consisted of a questionnaire (n = 80 FPs), video recordings of hypertension- or cholesterol-related general practitioner visits (n = 56), and the database of Netherlands Information Network of General Practice (n = 45 FPs; n = 157,137 patients). The questionnaire and video recordings were used to determine the average frequency and time spent on cardiovascular primary preventive activities per FP respectively. Taking into account the annual income and full time equivalents of general practitioners, health care assistants, and practice nurses as well as the practice costs, the total spending on cardiovascular primary preventive activities in Dutch FPs was calculated. The database of Netherlands Information Network of General Practice was used to determine the prescribing behaviour in Dutch FPs by conducting multilevel regression models and adjusting for patient and practice characteristics. Total expenditure on cardiovascular primary preventive activities in FPs in 2009 was €38.8 million (€2.35 per capita), of which 47% was spent on blood pressure measurements, 26% on cardiovascular risk profiling, and 11% on lifestyle counselling. Fifteen percent (€11 per capita) of all cardiovascular medication prescribed in FPs was a PPCM. FPs differed greatly on prescription of PPCM (odds ratio of 3.1). Total costs of cardiovascular primary preventive activities in FPs such as blood pressure measurements and lifestyle counselling are relatively low compared to the costs of PPCM. There is considerable heterogeneity in prescribing behaviour of PPCM between FPs. Further research is needed to determine whether such large differences in

Soluble organic nutrient fluxes

Treesearch

Robert G. Qualls; Bruce L. Haines; Wayne Swank

2014-01-01

Our objectives in this study were (i) compare fluxes of the dissolved organic nutrients dissolved organic carbon (DOC), DON, and dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) in a clearcut area and an adjacent mature reference area. (ii) determine whether concentrations of dissolved organic nutrients or inorganic nutrients were greater in clearcut areas than in reference areas,...

Observational-numerical Study of Maritime Extratropical Cyclones Using FGGE Data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wash, C. H.; Elsberry, R. L.

1984-01-01

The accomplishments, current research, and future plans of a study investigating the development, maturation, and decay of maritime extratropical cyclones are reported. Three cases of explosive cyclogenesis during the first GARP global experiment (FGGE) DOP-1 were studied diagnostically using storm-following budgets derived from the ECMWF and GLAS level III-b analyses. Mass, vorticity and angular momentum budgets for the moving storm environment were computed for each case. Key results from these studies include: (1) demonstration that the FGGE analyses can be used to explore oceanic circulations; (2) isolation of the role of upper level jet streaks in the initiation of the explosive period in all three cases; and (3) illustration of the lower tropospheric destabilization during each rapid deepening period, which is primarily due to sensible heating of the cold air by the warmer ocean surface. The physics package of the Navy global forecast model was successfully utilized in a semi-prognostic mode to estimate diabatic components of oceanic cyclone systems. Fields of sensible and latent heat fluxes, radiational heating and inferred cloud structures were also computed.

Effects of a Cancer Prevention Advertisement on Beliefs and Knowledge about Cancer Prevention.

PubMed

Kye, Su Yeon; Yoo, Jisu; Lee, Min Hee; Jun, Jae Kwan

2015-01-01

Outcome-expectation beliefs and knowledge may ultimately influence behavior for cancer prevention. The aims of this study were to measure changes in knowledge and beliefs about cancer prevention before and after viewing a television advertisement and identify the factors affecting receptivity to its messages. A one-group pretest-posttest design was used in this study of 1,000 individuals aged 20 to 65 years who were recruited online in November 2014. The outcome variables included cancer prevention beliefs based on the Health Belief Model (five items) and knowledge about risk factors for cancer (seven items). Perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and self-efficacy increased significantly and their perceived severity and perceived barriers decreased significantly, after participants viewed the television advertisement. Correct responses to questions about risk factors also increased significantly, except for smoking. The main factors affecting changes in the outcome variables were age, interest in cancer prevention, social network, satisfaction with the ad, and pretest scores. Television advertisements with positive frameworks can be an efficient channel of improving beliefs and knowledge about cancer prevention in a short period. The continuous development of intervention materials that consider the demographics, needs, and satisfaction of the target group will be necessary for future studies.

A Systematic Review of Obesity Prevention Intervention Studies among Immigrant Populations in the US.

PubMed

Tovar, Alison; Renzaho, Andre M N; Guerrero, Alma D; Mena, Noereem; Ayala, Guadalupe X

2014-01-01

The aim of this review was to systematically assess the effectiveness of obesity prevention and control interventions in US immigrant populations across the life course, from preschool-age to adults. A systematic review of relevant studies was undertaken and eligible articles included. The initial search identified 684 potentially relevant articles, of which only 20 articles met the selection criteria, representing 20 unique studies. They were divided into interventions that targeted adults (n=7), interventions that targeted children (n=5) and pilot studies (n=8). The majority of interventions targeted Latinos, predominately Mexican-origin populations. Among the interventions targeting adults, five had an effect on obesity related outcomes. However, they tended to use less rigorous study designs. Among the interventions that targeted children, three had a positive effect on obesity-related outcomes. Three of the eight pilot studies had an effect on obesity-related outcomes. There is a paucity of data on effective interventions but a great need to address obesity prevention to help inform health policies and programs to reduce migration-related obesity inequalities.

Observational study to assess pregnant women’s knowledge and behaviour to prevent toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and cytomegalovirus

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and cytomegalovirus (CMV) can negatively affect pregnancy outcomes, but can be prevented by simple precautions of pregnant women. Literature suggests that pregnant women are not always adequately informed by their care provider about preventable infectious diseases and most pregnant women have a low level of knowledge regarding these topics. There is not much information about the actual risk behaviour of pregnant women. The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge and risk behaviour related to toxoplasmosis, listeriosis and CMV infection prevention in pregnant women. Methods A cross-sectional survey among pregnant women from twenty midwifery practices across the Netherlands that participated in the DELIVER study, between October 2010 and December 2010. The questionnaire items covered respondents’ knowledge of preventive practices in general, risk behaviour, and sources of received information. Results Of the 1,097 respondents (response 66.0%), 75.3% had heard, read or seen information about toxoplasmosis, 61.7% about listeriosis and 12.5% about CMV. The majority reported having heard about these infections from their care providers or read about these in printed media or on the Internet. Respondents showed limited knowledge about preventive practices for toxoplasmosis, listeriosis or CMV infection. Regarding toxoplasmosis, risk behaviour was more prevalent among respondents who had a high level of education, had the Dutch nationality, did not take folic acid during their first trimester, and had ever worked in a children day-care setting. Regarding listeriosis, risk behaviour was more prevalent among respondents who where in their third trimester. Regarding CMV infections, risk behaviour was less prevalent among respondents who were in their third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusion Of the respondents, a substantial part did not have knowledge about preventive practices to avoid listeriosis, toxoplasmosis and CMV

Can community midwives prevent antenatal depression? An external pilot study to test the feasibility of a cluster randomized controlled universal prevention trial.

PubMed

Brugha, T S; Smith, J; Austin, J; Bankart, J; Patterson, M; Lovett, C; Morgan, Z; Morrell, C J; Slade, P

2016-01-01

Repeated epidemiological surveys show no decline in depression although uptake of treatments has grown. Universal depression prevention interventions are effective in schools but untested rigorously in adulthood. Selective prevention programmes have poor uptake. Universal interventions may be more acceptable during routine healthcare contacts for example antenatally. One study within routine postnatal healthcare suggested risk of postnatal depression could be reduced in non-depressed women from 11% to 8% by giving health visitors psychological intervention training. Feasibility and effectiveness in other settings, most notably antenatally, is unknown. We conducted an external pilot study using a cluster trial design consisting of recruitment and enhanced psychological training of randomly selected clusters of community midwives (CMWs), recruitment of pregnant women of all levels of risk of depression, collection of baseline and outcome data prior to childbirth, allowing time for women 'at increased risk' to complete CMW-provided psychological support sessions. Seventy-nine percent of eligible women approached agreed to take part. Two hundred and ninety-eight women in eight clusters participated and 186 termed 'at low risk' for depression, based on an Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score of <12 at 12 weeks gestation, provided baseline and outcome data at 34 weeks gestation. All trial protocol procedures were shown to be feasible. Antenatal effect sizes in women 'at low risk' were similar to those previously demonstrated postnatally. Qualitative work confirmed the acceptability of the approach to CMWs and intervention group women. A fully powered trial testing universal prevention of depression in pregnancy is feasible, acceptable and worth undertaking.

Optimization of laser butt welding parameters with multiple performance characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sathiya, P.; Abdul Jaleel, M. Y.; Katherasan, D.; Shanmugarajan, B.

2011-04-01

This paper presents a study carried out on 3.5 kW cooled slab laser welding of 904 L super austenitic stainless steel. The joints have butts welded with different shielding gases, namely argon, helium and nitrogen, at a constant flow rate. Super austenitic stainless steel (SASS) normally contains high amount of Mo, Cr, Ni, N and Mn. The mechanical properties are controlled to obtain good welded joints. The quality of the joint is evaluated by studying the features of weld bead geometry, such as bead width (BW) and depth of penetration (DOP). In this paper, the tensile strength and bead profiles (BW and DOP) of laser welded butt joints made of AISI 904 L SASS are investigated. The Taguchi approach is used as a statistical design of experiment (DOE) technique for optimizing the selected welding parameters. Grey relational analysis and the desirability approach are applied to optimize the input parameters by considering multiple output variables simultaneously. Confirmation experiments have also been conducted for both of the analyses to validate the optimized parameters.

Cultural-based particle swarm for dynamic optimisation problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Daneshyari, Moayed; Yen, Gary G.

2012-07-01

Many practical optimisation problems are with the existence of uncertainties, among which a significant number belong to the dynamic optimisation problem (DOP) category in which the fitness function changes through time. In this study, we propose the cultural-based particle swarm optimisation (PSO) to solve DOP problems. A cultural framework is adopted incorporating the required information from the PSO into five sections of the belief space, namely situational, temporal, domain, normative and spatial knowledge. The stored information will be adopted to detect the changes in the environment and assists response to the change through a diversity-based repulsion among particles and migration among swarms in the population space, and also helps in selecting the leading particles in three different levels, personal, swarm and global levels. Comparison of the proposed heuristics over several difficult dynamic benchmark problems demonstrates the better or equal performance with respect to most of other selected state-of-the-art dynamic PSO heuristics.

An evaluation of skylight polarization patterns for navigation.

PubMed

Ma, Tao; Hu, Xiaoping; Zhang, Lilian; Lian, Junxiang; He, Xiaofeng; Wang, Yujie; Xian, Zhiwen

2015-03-10

Skylight polarization provides a significant navigation cue for certain polarization-sensitive animals. However, the precision of the angle of polarization (AOP) of skylight for vehicle orientation is not clear. An evaluation of AOP must be performed before it is utilized. This paper reports an evaluation of AOP of skylight by measuring the skylight polarization patterns of clear and cloudy skies using a full-sky imaging polarimetry system. AOP measurements of skylight are compared with the pattern calculated by the single-scattering Rayleigh model and these differences are quantified. The relationship between the degree of polarization (DOP) and the deviation of AOP of skylight is thoroughly studied. Based on these, a solar meridian extracted method is presented. The results of experiments reveal that the DOP is a key parameter to indicate the accuracy of AOP measurements, and all the output solar meridian orientations extracted by our method in both clear and cloudy skies can achieve a high accuracy for vehicle orientation.

An Evaluation of Skylight Polarization Patterns for Navigation

PubMed Central

Ma, Tao; Hu, Xiaoping; Zhang, Lilian; Lian, Junxiang; He, Xiaofeng; Wang, Yujie; Xian, Zhiwen

2015-01-01

Skylight polarization provides a significant navigation cue for certain polarization-sensitive animals. However, the precision of the angle of polarization (AOP) of skylight for vehicle orientation is not clear. An evaluation of AOP must be performed before it is utilized. This paper reports an evaluation of AOP of skylight by measuring the skylight polarization patterns of clear and cloudy skies using a full-sky imaging polarimetry system. AOP measurements of skylight are compared with the pattern calculated by the single-scattering Rayleigh model and these differences are quantified. The relationship between the degree of polarization (DOP) and the deviation of AOP of skylight is thoroughly studied. Based on these, a solar meridian extracted method is presented. The results of experiments reveal that the DOP is a key parameter to indicate the accuracy of AOP measurements, and all the output solar meridian orientations extracted by our method in both clear and cloudy skies can achieve a high accuracy for vehicle orientation. PMID:25763652

The IDEFICS intervention trial to prevent childhood obesity: design and study methods.

PubMed

Pigeot, I; Baranowski, T; De Henauw, S

2015-12-01

One of the major research dimensions of the Identification and prevention of Dietary- and lifestyle-induced health EFfects In Children and infantS (IDEFICS) study involved the development, implementation and evaluation of a setting-based community-oriented intervention programme for primary prevention of childhood obesity. In this supplement of Obesity Reviews, a compilation of key results of the IDEFICS intervention is packaged in a series of complementary papers. This paper describes the overall design and methods of the IDEFICS intervention in order to facilitate a comprehensive reading of the supplement. In addition, some 'best practice' examples are described. The IDEFICS intervention trial was conducted to assess whether the IDEFICS intervention prevented obesity in young children aged 2 to 9.9 years. The study was a non-randomized, quasi-experimental trial with one intervention matched to one control region in each of eight participating countries. The intervention was designed following the intervention mapping framework, using a socio-ecological theoretical approach. The intervention was designed to address several key obesity-related behaviours in children, parents, schools and community actors; the primary outcome was the prevalence of overweight/obesity according to the IOTF criteria based on body mass index. The aim was to achieve a reduction of overweight/obesity prevalence in the intervention regions. The intervention was delivered in school and community settings over a 2-year period. Data were collected in the intervention and control cohort regions at baseline and 2 years later. This paper offers an introductory framework for a comprehensive reading of this supplement on IDEFICS intervention key results. © 2015 World Obesity.

Core indicators evaluation of effectiveness of HIV-AIDS preventive-control programmes carried out by nongovernmental organizations. A mixed method study

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The number of nongovernmental organizations working on AIDS has grown. There is great diversity in the type of activities and population groups that have been targeted. The purposes of this study are: to describe and analyze the objectives and HIV-AIDS preventive activities that are carried out by the AIDS-NGOs that work with AIDS in Catalonia and that receive subsidies from the Department of Health; and to develop a comprehensive proposal for measurable and agreed upon core quality evaluation indicators to monitor and assess those objectives and activities that can have an impact on the fight against inequalities and stigmatization, and incorporate the perspectives of the service providers and users. Methods A mixed method study has been carried out with professionals from the 36 NGOs that work with HIV/AIDS in Catalonia, as well as their users. This study achieved the completeness model using the following phases: 1. A systematic review of AIDS-NGOs annual reports and preparation of a catalogue of activities grouped by objectives, level of prevention and AIDS-NGOs target population; 2. A transversal study through an ad-hoc questionnaire administered to the AIDS-NGOs representatives; 3. A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach through focus groups, individual interviews and observations; 4. Consensus meetings between AIDS-NGOs professionals and the research team using Haddon matrices in order to establish a proposal of evaluation indicators. Results The information was classified according to level of prevention and level of intervention. A total of 248 objectives and 258 prevention activities were identified. 1564 evaluation indicators, addressed to 7 target population groups, were produced. Thirty core activities were selected. The evaluation indicators proposed for these activities were: 76 indicators for 15 primary prevention activities, 43 for 5 secondary prevention activities and 68 for 10 tertiary prevention activities. Conclusions

Core indicators evaluation of effectiveness of HIV-AIDS preventive-control programmes carried out by nongovernmental organizations. A mixed method study.

PubMed

Berenguera, Anna; Pujol-Ribera, Enriqueta; Violan, Concepció; Romaguera, Amparo; Mansilla, Rosa; Giménez, Albert; Ascaso, Carlos; Almeda, Jesús

2011-07-28

The number of nongovernmental organizations working on AIDS has grown. There is great diversity in the type of activities and population groups that have been targeted. The purposes of this study are: to describe and analyze the objectives and HIV-AIDS preventive activities that are carried out by the AIDS-NGOs that work with AIDS in Catalonia and that receive subsidies from the Department of Health; and to develop a comprehensive proposal for measurable and agreed upon core quality evaluation indicators to monitor and assess those objectives and activities that can have an impact on the fight against inequalities and stigmatization, and incorporate the perspectives of the service providers and users. A mixed method study has been carried out with professionals from the 36 NGOs that work with HIV/AIDS in Catalonia, as well as their users. This study achieved the completeness model using the following phases:1. A systematic review of AIDS-NGOs annual reports and preparation of a catalogue of activities grouped by objectives, level of prevention and AIDS-NGOs target population; 2. A transversal study through an ad-hoc questionnaire administered to the AIDS-NGOs representatives; 3. A qualitative study with a phenomenological approach through focus groups, individual interviews and observations; 4. Consensus meetings between AIDS-NGOs professionals and the research team using Haddon matrices in order to establish a proposal of evaluation indicators. The information was classified according to level of prevention and level of intervention. A total of 248 objectives and 258 prevention activities were identified. 1564 evaluation indicators, addressed to 7 target population groups, were produced. Thirty core activities were selected. The evaluation indicators proposed for these activities were: 76 indicators for 15 primary prevention activities, 43 for 5 secondary prevention activities and 68 for 10 tertiary prevention activities. The results could help to homogeneously